bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-Stage Model of Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Mouse
Authors: Luo Min , Yang Fan , Huang Sheng-xin , Kuang Zhi-peng , Luo Xiao-ling , Li Yuan-dong , Wu Ji-ning , Xie Yu-an
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study was to develop an efficient and reproducible mouse model for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) research and assess the expression of two proto-oncogenes (c-myc and N-ras) and tumor suppressor gene p53 in the carcinogenic process. In this study, we found that diethylnitrosamine
initiation with CCl4 and ethanol promotion could induce a short-term, two-stage liver carcinogenesis model in male BALB/c mice, the process of hepatocarcinogenesis including liver damage, liver necrosis/cell death, liver inflammation, liver proliferation, liver hyperplasia, liver
steatosis, and liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular nodules, which mimicked the usual sequence of events observed in human HCC. We also identified that the increase in expression of the p53 gene is related to the proliferation of hepatocytes, whereas overexpression of the c-myc and N-ras genes
is associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. This animal model may serve as a basis for recapitulating the molecular pathogenesis of HCC seen in humans.
Enhancement of Proliferation and Invasion by MicroRNA-590-5p via Targeting PBRM1 in Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Xiao Xiangcheng , Tang Cene , Xiao Shan , Fu Chunyan , Yu Pingping
Published: September 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in cancer development. In our study, miR-590-5p is found to be upregulated in the examined renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines. PBRM1 acts as tumor suppressor in RCC, and its downregulation is associated with increased proliferation and aggressive behavior in RCC. We confirmed that PBRM1 was a direct target of miR-590-5p. miR-590-5p could regulate PBRM1 mRNA and protein expressions in clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC) ACHN and 786-O cells. Downregulation of miR-590-5p, which resulted in increased PBRM1, inhibited proliferation and invasion of ccRCC cells. Upregulation of miR-590-5p, which resulted in decreased PBRM1, promoted proliferation and invasion of ccRCC cells. The process of miR-590-5p promoting proliferation was found to be implicated in its inhibition of G1/S transition of ccRCC cells, and the action mechanisms were involved in its downregulation of PBRM1/p21WAF1/CIP1expression. In conclusion, we identified the role of miR-590-5p, serving as an oncomir in ccRCC, and our findings provide a potential target for the treatment of ccRCC.
Environmental and genetic variation in leaf anatomy among populations ofAndropogon gerardii(Poaceae) along a precipitation gradient
Authors: Olsen Jacob T. , Caudle Keri L. , Johnson Loretta C. , Baer Sara G. , Maricle Brian R.
Published: September 2013

•Premise of the study:Phenotypes of twoAndropogon gerardiisubspecies, big bluestem and sand bluestem, vary throughout the prairie ecosystem of North America. This study sought to determine the role of genetics and environment in driving adaptive variation of leaf structure in big bluestem and sand bluestem.

•Methods:Four populations of big bluestem and one population of sand bluestem were planted in common gardens at four sites across a precipitation gradient from western Kansas to southern Illinois. Internal leaf structure and trichome density ofA. gerardiiwere examined by light microscopy to separate genetic and environmentally controlled traits. Leaf thickness, midrib thickness, bulliform cells, interveinal distance, vein size, and trichome density were quantified.

•Key results:At all planting sites, sand bluestem and the xeric population ofA. gerardiihad thicker leaves and fewer bulliform cells compared with mesic populations. Environment and genetic source population were both influential for leaf anatomy. Leaves from plants grown in mesic sites (Carbondale, Illinois and Manhattan, Kansas) had thicker midribs, larger veins, fewer trichomes, and a greater proportion of bulliform cells compared to plants grown in drier sites (Colby and Hays, Kansas).

•Conclusions:Water availability has driven adaptive variation in leaf structure in populations ofA. gerardii, particularly between sand bluestem and big bluestem. Genetically based differences in leaves ofA. gerardiiindicate adaptive variation and evolutionary forces differentiating sand bluestem from big bluestem. Environmental responses ofA. gerardiileaves suggest an ability to adjust to drought, even in populations adapted to mesic home environments.
India, urban sanitation, and the toilet challenge
Authors: Elledge Myles , McClatchey Marcella
Published: September 2013

This research brief builds upon a literature review and stakeholder interviews in India on urban sanitation to examine the public policy landscape for sanitation innovation in the country. India ranks low in terms of sanitation coverage; the country experiences very high rates of open defecation and significant use of unimproved toilets. The majority of fecal sludge goes untreated into waterways in urban areas. India's demographic trends show rapid urban growth, both geographically and in terms of population, which is also expanding the gap in access to improved sanitation in urban areas. Adequate government funding and policy implementation is lacking. The past focus on centralized sewerage systems and simple on-site sanitation is not an acceptable default option, nor is it technically feasible or financially viable given growth patterns. Groundbreaking new technology, management, and operational models are required to solve the sanitation challenge at scale. Recent attention from the donor community, the private sector, and others brings focus to using innovation to solve the sanitation challenge. This review highlights that urban sanitation is under-researched. More work is required to spur funding, inform technology development, and support the policy-enabling environment for bringing in new approaches to improved urban sanitation.
EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF STATE SUBSIDIES ON BUSINESS
Authors: Ginevičius Romualdas , Bruzgė Šarūnas
Published: September 2013

The effect of market regulation tools on business is a complex phenomenon, and the after-effects of such regulation could be both favourable and adverse. The enhancement of the positive effect is a scientific task, which requires a systematic approach. In order to find a solution to this problem, it is necessary: a) to identify the relevant factors; b) to make a coherent evaluation of these factors and their influence on the phenomenon under investigation; c) to establish the optimal form and extent of the SRB (State Regulation of Business) tool required for the achievement of the desired results.

The study analyses aims of economic regulation and business management from the point of view of a state. It also examines the practice in economic research and evaluation of EU Structural Funds in Lithuania and abroad. The research is focused on problems caused by state subsidies for business enterprises as one of the forms of SRB. The research also focuses on possibilities to enhance the effectiveness of business regulation. The main objects of this study are: state subsidies for business enterprises as a form of state intervention in the market, and the possible correlation between the specifications of subsidies and their effect on business.

The evaluation presented in this study proved that EU subsidies had a direct positive influence on the effect of subsidies. The research into the influence of various subsidy criteria on the effect of subsidies revealed that a greater effect results from the rate rather than the size of funding.
STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF THE MANAGEMENT SCIENCE METHODOLOGY
Authors: Lisiński Marek
Published: September 2013

The article presents a structure of management science methodology, reduced to determination and description of its basic components. It has been covered in three levels, differing in the degree of detail description of methods. These are accordingly: the 1st level, identified with philosophy of methodology, the 2nd level corresponding to a method as well as the 3rd level, the most detailed, convergent with a technique. A structural analysis was used for identification and providing characteristics of particular components of the management science methodology.
METHODICAL ASPECTS OF APPLYING STRATEGY MAP IN AN ORGANIZATION
Authors: Markiewicz Piotr
Published: September 2013

One of important aspects of strategic management is the instrumental aspect included in a rich set of methods and techniques used at particular stages of strategic management process. The object of interest in this study is the development of views and the implementation of strategy as an element of strategic management and instruments in the form of methods and techniques. The commonly used method in strategy implementation and measuring progress is Balanced Scorecard (BSC). The method was created as a result of implementing the project “Measuring performance in the Organization of the future” of 1990, completed by a team under the supervision of David Norton (Kaplan, Norton 2002). The developed method was used first of all to evaluate performance by decomposition of a strategy into four perspectives and identification of measures of achievement. In the middle of 1990s the method was improved by enriching it, first of all, with a strategy map, in which the process of transition of intangible assets into tangible financial effects is reflected (Kaplan, Norton 2001). Strategy map enables illustration of cause and effect relationship between processes in all four perspectives and performance indicators at the level of organization. The purpose of the study being prepared is to present methodical conditions of using strategy maps in the strategy implementation process in organizations of different nature.
La « technomie » et le citoyen biochimique
Authors: McGuire Michael
Published: September 2013

L’apparition du profilage ADN comme outil au service de la justice pénale constitue une étape nouvelle dans l’usage du corps au titre de ressource à des fins de régulation sociale. Le rôle traditionnel du corps pénal – objet visible de distribution de souffrances – a progressivement été dilué dans des projets de régulation plus subtils et invisibles, centrés sur sa structure biochimique. La transformation a été si subtile que l’on peut avancer qu’un nouveau type de sujet de justice est né : le citoyen biochimique. Dans cet article, je suggère que la citoyenneté biologique doit être considérée comme le résultat d’un déplacement régulatoire plus complexe, dans lequel les technologies biochimiques ne constituent qu’un élément d’une matrice plus étendue de la régulation technologique. Dans ce nouvel ordre technologique que je nomme « technomie », les fonctions de la justice pénale traditionnelle et les institutions qui la portent se doivent d’être réarticulées selon des modalités dont nous commençons seulement à nous rendre compte.
La vidéo-comparution en Belgique : une solution sans problème
Authors: de Biolley Sophie
Published: September 2013

Cet article, à ambition descriptive et analytique, vise à mettre en perspective le processus de création de la vidéo-comparution qui a cours en Belgique et le processus d’institutionnalisation de ce dispositif en France. L’objectif est d’apporter des éléments permettant d’expliquer, du moins en partie, pourquoi les acteurs politiques ne parviennent pas, à introduire ce nouveau mode de comparution dans le code d’instruction criminelle belge. L’absence de ce dispositif de la procédure pénale belge est, en outre, étonnante compte tenu de son introduction, il y a plus de dix ans, en France et de l’élargissement incessant, depuis, de son champ d’application.
L'accompagnement socio-judiciaire saisi par l'informatisation en Belgique
Authors: Jonckheere Alexia
Published: September 2013

Cette contribution propose une analyse des évolutions contemporaines de l’accompagnement socio-judiciaire des condamnés par le biais de l’informatisation de l’activité. Sur la base d’une étude empirique du travail réalisé en Belgique par les assistants de justice, nous montrons comment une application informatique, dénommée SIPAR, participe à la reconfiguration du travail social en justice et s’ancre dans des enjeux de normalisation, de contrôle et de gestion administrative.
La matérialité de la surveillance électronique
Authors: Razac Olivier
Published: September 2013

La surveillance électronique est souvent pensée en termes de dématérialisation, de virtualisation de l’enfermement. Mais cette approche laisse en suspens le problème de savoir ce qu’est une contrainte physique immatérielle. À l’inverse, et paradoxalement, le placement sous surveillance électronique est volontiers décrit selon un registre matériel et carcéral : comme « couvre-feu » ou « prison à domicile ». Mais cela recouvre la spécificité du fonctionnement d’une surveillance à distance. Il s’agit donc de partir de l’expérience des « placés » pour réussir à saisir le système complexe qui produit effectivement cette contrainte. Or, la surveillance électronique, même largement « virtualisée », s’appuie toujours sur la chair, sur le corps, sur l’environnement. Par-là même, elle réactive d’une manière spécifique, plus qu’elle ne dépasse, le vieux paradigme carcéral.
Les relations entre la France et l'Afrique
Authors: Borloo Jean-Louis
Published: September 2013

Dans ce grand basculement géoéconomique et géopolitique du monde, qui fait de l’Europe un vieux continent à la dérive, l’Afrique n’est plus la grande oubliée. Le XXI e siècle incarne véritablement le moment africain. Il est temps pour nous de sortir de cette mythologie sulfureuse qui caractérise les relations entre la France et l’Afrique, et de mettre en place un partenariat « gagnant-gagnant » et pluriel (économique, diplomatique, culturelle et écologique) qui leur permettrait de faire face aux nouveaux défis résultant d’une économie mondialisée auxquels ils sont confrontés.
La précarité énergétique, un chantier européen prioritaire
Authors: Derdevet Michel
Published: September 2013

À l’approche des échéances européennes de 2014, la politique européenne de l’énergie doit être questionnée dans ses priorités. L’Europe de l’énergie peut-elle être réduite à un simple marché intérieur s’assurant du libre-échange entre énergies ? La « transition énergétique » ne doit–elle se traduire que par des pourcentages de CO2 évités et des perspectives théoriques à 2050 ? Michel Derdevet suggère de placer en haut des priorités politiques futures de l’Union l’accès du plus grand nombre à une énergie disponible et de qualité, et d’engager des actions volontaristes contre la pauvreté/précarité énergétique, qui concerne un européen sur sept. Une opportunité, selon lui, de réconcilier l’Europe avec les préoccupations quotidiennes de ses citoyens et de redonner du sens à la construction commune.
Voisinage stratégique de l'Union européene
Authors: Dupuy Emmanuel
Published: September 2013

Alors que le livre blanc sur la défense et la sécurité vient consacrer la notion de « profondeur stratégique », la France reste néanmoins en retard, en comparaison de ses partenaires orientaux de l’UE, dans son approche globale de la zone Mer Noire-Causase-Asie centrale. C’est pourtant là que s’y joue un nouveau « Grand Jeu », expression d’une Realpolitik réaffirmée, sur fond de sécurité énergétique, de proximité avec les foyers de crise que sont la Syrie, l’Iran et l’Afghanistan et « d’orientalisation » des relations internationales et de balancement diplomatique, économique et militaire vers l’Asie. D’où l’urgente nécessité pour l’UE de redécouvrir les vertus de l’ Ostpolitik .
Le « Printemps arabe » et la nouvelle donne de l'énergie
Authors: Simonet Loïc
Published: September 2013

Au-delà de l’impact immédiat des évènements de ces deux dernières années sur le niveau de production des hydrocarbures en Afrique du Nord et au Moyen-Orient et sur les prix, le « Printemps arabe » a également généré un bouleversement de fonds de la donne énergétique, qui pourrait affecter, dans les années qui viennent, les relations entre États producteurs de la région et États consommateurs. Le phénomène est également observé de près par l’Iran et la Turquie, préoccupés tous deux de sauvegarder leur position de carrefour énergétique et dépendants pour ce faire de leurs voisins arabes.
Corruption, mode d'emploi
Authors: Pons Noël
Published: September 2013

Cet article présente le cadre général des montages et des typologies corruptrices récurrentes : la petite et la moyenne corruption qui se matérialisent dans un échange direct entre corrupteur et corrompu ; la grande corruption ou la corruption des riches ou des élites qui relève d’une situation de rente ; la corruption dite des ingénieurs et du secteur privé, et enfin la corruption criminelle et le blanchiment. L’importance donnée aux manifestations matérielles de la corruption est due au fait que chaque montage est en premier lieu causé par une décision personnelle et qu’elle ne peut se développer sans la présence d’artifices comptables ou juridiques. Il faut donc savoir reconnaître les situations qui sont susceptibles de présenter des risques de corruption avant de s’engager dans toute autre analyse.
Fachadas con muro Trombe y doble acristalamiento: E! ciencia energética para diferentes climas Portugueses
Authors: Sacht H. M. , Bragança L. , Almeida M.
Published: September 2013

Esta investigación aborda el estudio de fachadas con cristales de altas prestaciones y muros Trombe. El artículo presenta los resultados de la investigación en curso sobre un nuevo concepto en sistemas de fachada, denominado "Módulos de fachada para el acondicionamiento ecoeficiente de edificios", especialmente enfocado a la eficiencia energética de muros Trombe y módulos con doble acristalamiento. Haciendo uso del software DesignBuilder se realizaron simulaciones de una estancia, analizando distintos conjuntos de fachadas modulares. Para la realización de las simulaciones se consideraron dos tipos de módulos de doble acristalamiento, dos configuraciones de muros Trombe, tres climas diferentes en Portugal y cuatro orientaciones solares. Se compararon los requerimientos de calefacción de cada una de las configuraciones, observándose que tanto los muros Trombe como los módulos de doble acristalamiento presentaron disminuciones significativas en cuanto a requerimientos de calefacción. De las configuraciones analizadas, la mayoría presentó demandas energéticas de calefacción menores a lo especificado en la normativa portuguesa (RCCTE).
Hand Gesture Recognition as Means for Mobile Human Computer Interaction in Adverse Working Environments
Authors: Ziegler Jens , Döring Randy , Pfeffer Johannes , Urbas Leon
Published: September 2013

Interacting with mobile devices can be challenging in adverse working environments. Using hand gestures for interaction can overcome severe usability issues that users face when working with mobile devices in industrial settings. This chapter is dedicated to the design, implementation, and evaluation of mobile information systems with hand gesture recognition as means for human computer interaction. The chapter provides a concise theoretical background on human gestural interaction and gesture recognition, guidelines for the design of gesture vocabularies, recommendations for proper implementation, and parameterization of robust and reliable recognition algorithms on energy-efficient 8-bit architectures. It additionally presents an elaborated process for participatory design and evaluation of gesture vocabularies to ensure high usability in the actual context of use. The chapter concludes with a case study that proves the suitability of the proposed framework for the design of efficient and reliable hand gesture-based user interfaces.
The Axiomatic Usability Evaluation Method
Authors: Guo Yinni
Published: September 2013

This chapter introduces a new usability evaluation method, the axiomatic evaluation method, which is developed based on the axiomatic design theory – a formalized design methodology that can be used to solve a variety of design problems. This new evaluation method examines three domains of a product: customer domain, functional domain, and control domain. This method investigates not only usability problems reported by the users, but also usability problems related to customer requirements and usability problems related to control through checking the mapping matrix between the three domains. To determine how well this new usability evaluation method works, a between-subject experiment was conducted to compare the axiomatic evaluation method with the think aloud method. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to use either method to evaluate three popular consumer electronic devices (music player, digital camera, mobile phone) that represented different levels of complexity. Number of usability problems discovered, completion time, and overall user satisfaction were collected. Results show that the axiomatic evaluation method performed better in finding usability problems for the mobile phone. The axiomatic evaluation method was also better at finding usability problems about user expectation and control than the think aloud method. Benefits and drawbacks of using the axiomatic evaluation method are discussed.This chapter introduces a new usability evaluation method, the axiomatic evaluation method, which is developed based on the axiomatic design theory – a formalized design methodology that can be used to solve a variety of design problems. This new evaluation method examines three domains of a product: customer domain, functional domain, and control domain. This method investigates not only usability problems reported by the users, but also usability problems related to customer requirements and usability problems related to control through checking the mapping matrix between the three domains. To determine how well this new usability evaluation method works, a between-subject experiment was conducted to compare the axiomatic evaluation method with the think aloud method. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to use either method to evaluate three popular consumer electronic devices (music player, digital camera, mobile phone) that represented different levels of complexity. Number of usability problems discovered, completion time, and overall user satisfaction were collected. Results show that the axiomatic evaluation method performed better in finding usability problems for the mobile phone. The axiomatic evaluation method was also better at finding usability problems about user expectation and control than the think aloud method. Benefits and drawbacks of using the axiomatic evaluation method are discussed.
The Conceptual Pond
Authors: Sørensen Christian Grund , Sørensen Mathias Grund
Published: September 2013

“The Conceptual Pond” is a persuasive application designed to gather qualitative input through a multi-platform assessment interface. The process of using the application serves as a conceptual aid for personal reflection as well as providing a compilation and evaluation system with the ability to transform this input into quantitative data. In this chapter, a pilot study of this application is presented and discussed. The aim of this chapter is the discussion of central issues in the system, the use of semantic fields, user freedom vs. default options, graphical interface, persuasive technology design, and the epistemological potential of the application. In this discourse, contextualized rhetorical and persuasive technology theories are implemented. Functionality and epistemological impact is exemplified through several use cases, one of these linked to the EUROPlot project. In a more comprehensive scope, this chapter adds to the discussion of the role of IT systems in experiencing the world and reflecting on it, thus breaking new ground for designing persuasive applications supporting human recognition.
FaceID–Bones Narrate: A Semi Automated Approach for Forensic Facial Reconstruction
Authors: Madugalla Anuradha K , Rajapakse Roshan N , Amarasinghe Ishari U , Padmathilake Vinavi H , Dharmaratne Anuja T , Sandaruwan Damitha , Vidanaparthirana Muditha
Published: September 2013

Forensic facial reconstruction is still at its infancy in Sri Lanka and is yet to utilize the advanced technologies of other countries. Hence introducing a more efficient multimedia based technique to the local forensic officials in order to improve the efficiency and the accuracy of the reconstructions is the aim of this study. In contrast to the other mechanisms used for facial reconstruction by others, this paper adopts a novel approach of muscle based facial reconstruction which goes hand in hand with the manual reconstruction process. The adopted process involved, acquiring a 3D model of the skull and digitally sculpting muscles in a 3D environment, followed by adding different facial features to improve identification. The research also encompassed a tissue thickness analysis that is conducted for the first time on Sri Lankans as well as a facial component analysis, both of which were needed to improve the accuracy of the final output. This procedure was attempted on cases of the age category 20-30 and of medium weight. The outputs and the process were evaluated with different parties such as general public, forensic officials, lawyers and CID all of which are to be benefited from this application. The ultimate goal of conducting the study was to understand and overcome the challenges faced in developing this novel application for the Sri Lankan Forensic officials and to establish the first unit for facial reconstruction in Sri Lanka.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/icter.v6i1.6097 International Journal on Advances in ICT for Emerging Regions 2013 6(1)
Chimeric Anti-CD14 IGG2/4 Hybrid Antibodies for Therapeutic Intervention in Pig and Human Models of Inflammation
Authors: Lau Corinna , Gunnarsen Kristin S. , Høydahl Lene S. , Andersen Jan Terje , Berntzen Gøril , Pharo Anne , Lindstad Julie K. , Ludviksen Judith K. , Brekke Ole-Lars , Barratt-Due Andreas , Nielsen Erik Waage , Stokes Christopher R. , Espevik Terje , Sandlie Inger , Mollnes Tom Eirik
Published: September 2013

CD14 is a key recognition molecule of innate immune responses, interacting with several TLRs. TLR signaling cross-talks extensively with the complement system, and combined CD14 and complement inhibition has been proved effective in attenuating inflammatory responses. Pig models of human diseases have emerged as valuable tools to study therapeutic intervention, but suitable neutralizing Abs are rare. Undesired Fc-mediated functions, such as platelet activation and IL-8 release induced by the porcine CD14-specific clone Mil2, limit further studies. Therefore, an inert human IgG2/IgG4 hybrid C region was chosen for an rMil2. As revealed in ex vivo and in vivo pig experiments, rMil2 inhibited the CD14-mediated proinflammatory cytokine response similar to the original clone, but lacked the undesired Fc-effects, and inflammation was attenuated further by simultaneous complement inhibition. Moreover, rMil2 bound porcine FcRn, a regulator of t1/2 and biodistribution. Thus, rMil2, particularly combined with complement inhibitors, should be well suited for in vivo studies using porcine models of diseases, such as sepsis and ischemia-reperfusion injury. Similarly, the recombinant anti-human CD14 IgG2/4 Ab, r18D11, was generated with greatly reduced Fc-mediated effects and preserved inhibitory function ex vivo. Such Abs might be drug candidates for the treatment of innate immunity-mediated human diseases.
Sex differences in long-term outcomes of patients with percutaneous coronary intervention: the Armenian experience
Authors: Sahakyan Yeva , Thompson Michael E. , Abrahamyan Lusine
Published: September 2013

The present study aimed at assessing sex differences in perioperative characteristics and 3-year event-free survival from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) in patients with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in Armenia. The study utilized an observational, retrospective cohort design enrolling patients who underwent PCI from 2006 to 2008 at a single center in Yerevan, Armenia. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events included all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), repeat revascularization, or stroke/transient ischemic attack. Among 485 participants included in the analysis, 419 (86%) were men. Women were older, more hypertensive, more obese, and had significantly higher rates of diabetes. At the end of follow-up, the incidence of MACCE was 37% for men and 33% for women (P=0.9). Based on the results from the adjusted Cox proportional hazards model, the independent predictors of MACCE included acute MI [hazard ratio (HR)=1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-2.00], arrhythmia (HR=1.64, 95% CI: 1.07-2.50), sex (HR=2.46, 95% CI: 1.08- 5.61), diabetes (HR=5.65, 95% CI: 2.14-14.95), and the interaction between sex and diabetes (HR=0.16; 95% CI: 0.05-0.47). Among diabetic patients, men had better event-free survival from MACCE (HR=0.40, 95% CI: 0.19-0.85) than women, whereas in patients without diabetes men had worse outcomes than women (95% CI: 1.08-5.62). In Armenia, the baseline profile of women undergoing PCI differed considerably from that of men. In patients with diabetes, women had worse outcomes at long-term follow-up, while the opposite was noted in patients without diabetes.
Advanced cancer, pain and quality of life
Authors: Theofilou Paraskevi
Published: September 2013

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Ten weeks of home-based exercise attenuates symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer patients
Authors: Wonders Karen Y. , Whisler Gabrielle , Loy Hallie , Holt Brian , Bohachek Kelsey , Wise Robert
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if a structured, home-based exercise program was beneficial to reduce symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and improve quality of life (QOL). A total of 50 women who are breast cancer survivors and are listed in the Breast Cancer Registry of Greater Cincinnati database were recruited by mail. Participants were initially asked to complete the McGill QOL questionnaire and the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs, before beginning a 10-week home-based exercise program. At the completion of the exercise program, subjects were asked again to complete the same two questionnaires. Pre- and post-intervention data were analyzed using a repeated measures ANOVA, at a significance level of α<0.05. Six individuals completed the investigation. Prior to the 10-week exercise program, participants described their pain as unpleasant skin sensations (Pre-HBEx, N=6), abnormally sensitive to touch (Pre-HBEx, N=6), and coming on suddenly in bursts for no apparent reason (Pre-HBEx, N=5). Following 10-weeks of exercise, participants reported experiencing less of these symptoms (Post- HBEx, N=3, 1, and 4 respectively; P=0.05). It was also determined that troublesome symp- toms were significantly reduced after 10- weeks of home-based exercise (P=0.05).
Spirituality and religion in pain and pain management
Authors: Dedeli Ozden , Kaptan Gulten
Published: September 2013

Pain relief is a management problem for many patients, their families, and the medical professionals caring for them. Although everyone experiences pain to some degree, responses to it vary from one person to another. Recognizing and specifying someone else’s pain is clinically a well know challenge. Research on the biology and neurobiology of pain has given us a relationship between spirituality and pain. There is growing recognition that persistent pain is a complex and multidimensional experience stemming from the interrelations among biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. Patients with pain use a number of cognitive and behavioral strategies to cope with their pain, including religious/spiritual factors, such as prayers, and seeking spiritual support to manage their pain. This article provides an overview of the complex phenomenon of pain, with a focus on spiritual and religious issues in pain management.
Does pain acceptance predict physical and psychological outcomes in cancer outpatients with pain?
Authors: Protopapa Evangelia , Senior Victoria
Published: September 2013

Pain acceptance has been associated with improved physical and psychosocial well-being in chronic non-malignant pain patients. However, its effects are unclear in cancer outpatients with pain. Our aim was to determine whether pain acceptance predicts reduced pain, pain interference with function, anxiety, and depression in cancer outpatients. We recruited 116 outpatients from a tertiary oncology center, with various types of cancer and pain levels. Patients completed the Brief Pain Inventory, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire, the latter of which comprises activity engagement and pain willingness. We carried out multiple regression analyses, adjusting for patient characteristics and outcomes. Activity engagement and pain willingness significantly predicted pain interference with function (P=0.033 and P=0.041 respectively). However, only activity engagement predicted anxiety (P=0.001) and depression (P<0.001). These findings support the benefi- cial role of pain acceptance in patients’ functional adaptation to cancer-related pain. Activity engagement in particular, shows promise in fostering psychological well-being. Further studies could confirm its role in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients with pain and whether it should be included in cancer pain management interventions.
Pericardial Tamponade: A Rare Complication of Sternal Bone Marrow Biopsy
Authors: Santavy Petr , Troubil Martin , Lonsky Vladimir
Published: September 2013

Injury of the heart with concomitant pericardial tamponade as a result of sternal bone marrow biopsy is rare. An 80-year-old man was admitted with dehydration and non-specified abdominal pain to the regional hospital. Sternal aspiration biopsy was performed because of anemia and thrombocytopenia. Later on, because of the back pain, general weakness and blood pressure drop, an echocardiography examination was indicated. Pericardial fluid collection was found. Anticipated ascending aortic dissection was excluded on computed tomography scan, but pericardial fluid collection was confirmed. Transfer to our cardiac surgical facility ensued. Limited heart tamponade was affirmed on echocardiography and surgery was immediately indicated. Blood effusion was found in upper mediastinal fat tissue and 300 mL of blood were evacuated from opened pericardial space. Stab wound by sternal biopsy needle at the upper part of ascending aorta was repaired by pledgeted suture. Postoperative course was uneventful.
A Case of Small Cell Cancer of the Breast in a Male with Synchronous Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Matt Laurie , Limjoco Teresa , Sehgal Rajesh
Published: September 2013

Extrapulmonary small cell carcinomas (EPSCC) are extremely rare. Most reports indicate success with therapy directed at the tumor as if it was pulmonary small cell carcinoma Primary small cell carcinoma of the breast is an uncommon form of EPSCC. Differentiating between a primary small cell carcinoma of the breast from metastatic disease to the breast is very important. According to the literature, there have been approximately 70 cases reported worldwide. Of these cases, only two cases are documented in men. Prognosis is varied and depends on stage of disease at presentation. A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation is required to adequately treat patients with small cell carcinoma of the breast. We present a case of a male patient diagnosed with stage IV non-small cell lung carcinoma first and then subsequently diagnosed with a concurrent small cell carcinoma of the breast responding to treatment with concurrent chemotherapy and radiation.
Anterior communicating artery aneurysm presenting with vision loss
Authors: Shukla Dhaval P , Bhat Dhananjaya I , Devi Bhagavatula I
Published: September 2013

Anterior communicating artery aneurysm rarely presents with symptoms of compression of anterior visual pathways. We report a case of 65 years old man, who had complete loss of vision in right eye and temporal hemianopsia in left eye due to giant anterior communicating artery aneurysm.
Sensory profile and its impact on quality of life in patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Kulkantrakorn Kongkiat , Lorsuwansiri Chakraphong
Published: September 2013

Context: Painful diabetic polyneuropathy (PDN) is common and causes significant disability. The sensory profile in each patient is different and affects quality of life. Aim: To describe the demographic, details of sensory profile and its impact on quality of life in patients with PDN. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional survey in patients with PDN who were treated in a University Hospital. Materials and Methods: They were interviewed with standard questionnaires, which included neuropathic pain scale (NPS), a short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) and a short form-36 quality of life survey (SF-36). Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics were used in demographic data. Student′s t test was used to analyze continuous data. Multiple comparisons for proportions and correlations were made using Fisher Exact test and Pearson′s coefficient of correlation, respectively. Results: Thirty three patients were included in this study. In NPS, sharp pain was the most common symptom and itching was the least common. Almost all patients had more than one type of pain. The mean VAS was 53 mm. In SFMPQ, the sensory score, affective score and the present pain score fell in the moderate range. In SF-36, physical functioning was the most affected and social function was the least affected. Conclusions: PDN significantly affects patients′ quality of life, especially physical function and role limitation due to a physical problem. Almost all patients have many types of pain and sharp pain is the most common.
Thoracic extraosseous, epidural, cavernous hemangioma: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Sharma Manish S , Borkar Sachin A , Kumar Amandeep , Sharma M. C. , Sharma Bhawani S , Mahapatra Ashok K
Published: September 2013

A 40-year-old male presented with mid-thoracic backache and progressive, ascending, spastic, paraparesis for one year. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an extraosseous, extradural mass, without any bone invasion at the T2-T4 vertebral levels, located dorsal to the thecal sac. The spinal cord was compressed ventrally. The lesion was totally excised after a T2-T4 laminectomy. Histopathological examination revealed a cavernous hemangioma. The authors reported this case and reviewed the literature, to explain why extraosseous, extradural, cavernous hemangiomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of extradural thoracic compressive myelopathy.
The “Skull Flap” a new conceived device for decompressive craniectomy/cranioplasty: Feasibility study on cadaver specimen
Authors: Chibbaro Salvatore , Tigan L , Marsella M , George B , Galzio R , Kehrli P , Vicaut E , Diemidio P
Published: September 2013

Background: Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a procedure that is currently performed with increasing frequency. The reason is that its indications have become much broader. This procedure may be associated with the relevant morbidity in the postoperative stage due to the creation of a large bone defect. On the other hand, cranioplasty is associated too with some of the common complications related to any reconstructive head surgery. The authors present a newly developed device: The “Skull Flap” (SF). This new device allows the surgeon to complete a DC, yet providing at the same time a cranial reconstruction that will not require the patient to undergo a second reconstructive procedure. Materials and Methods: Different size and location craniectomies were carried out on four human cadaveric heads; the bone flaps were then repositioned in a more elevated position with respect to the skull edges. The flaps were placed at a distance of 12 and 15 mm from the skull edges using the SF system. Crash tests were conducted on each flap while in open and closed positions to assess its reliability and efficacy. Results: SF was shown to be a strong fixation device that allows satisfactory brain decompression by keeping the original bone flap away from the swollen brain; at the same time, in a later stage, it allows cranial reconstruction in a simple way. Conclusion: The SF device was shown to be very easy to use, adaptable, and practical to apply; thus, allowing both satisfactory brain decompression as well as bone flap repositioning at a later time after the brain swelling has subsided.
Uncontrolled seizures resulting from cerebral venous sinus thrombosis complicating neurobrucellosis
Authors: Faraji Fardin , Didgar Farshid , Talaie-Zanjani Afsoon , Mohammadbeigi Abolfazl
Published: September 2013

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare form of stroke caused by thrombosis in venous sinuses of the brain. In this study, we reported on a patient with venous sinus thrombosis and brucellosis who presented with uncontrolled seizure despite being treated with anti-epileptic drugs at high doses. The case was a 33-year-old woman with a history of controlled complex partial seizure who presented with headache, asthenia, and uncontrolled seizure for one month. She was febrile and a brain CT scan indicated hemorrhagic focus in the left posterior parietal and the temporal lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance venography also proved venous sinus thrombosis in the left transverse sinus. Besides [In addition], a laboratory assessment confirmed brucellosis. Following the treatment with anti-coagulant, anti-brucellosis, and anti-epileptic agents, the patient was discharged in good condition with medical orders. Clinical suspicion and accurate evaluation of a patient′s history is the most important clue in diagnosis and treatment of brucellosis and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, especially in uncontrolled seizure in patients who had previously been under control.
Endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Singh Paramdeep , Kaur Rupinderjeet , Kaur Amarpreet
Published: September 2013

Early recanalization of the occluded artery leads to better clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) through protection of the time-sensitive penumbra. Intravenous administration of pharmacologic thrombolytic agents has been a standard treatment for AIS. To get better rates of recanalization, enhance the time window, and diminish the possibility of intracranial hemorrhage, endovascular thrombectomy was launched, with first authorization of the Merci clot retriever, a corkscrew-like apparatus, followed by approval of the Penumbra thromboaspiration system. Both devices lead to a high rate of recanalization. On the other hand, time to recanalization was on an average of 45 minutes, with most of the patients attaining only partial recanalization. More lately, retrievable stents have shown promise in decreasing the time to recanalization, and attaining a superior rate of complete clot resolution. The retrievable stent can be released within the clot to engage it within the struts of the stent, and afterwards it is taken back by pulling it under flow arrest. Neurointerventional techniques have a persistently ever-increasing and stimulating role in the management of AIS, as indicated by the advent of several important techniques. Stent retrievers have the capability to be ascertained as the most important approach to endovascular stroke treatment.
Hypothalamic glioma masquerading as craniopharyngioma
Authors: Vyas Sameer , Prabhakar Nidhi , Tewari Manoj Kumar , Radotra Bishan Dass , Khandelwal Niranjan
Published: September 2013

Hypothalamic glioma account for 10-15% of supratentorial tumors in children. They usually present earlier (first 5 years of age) than craniopharyngioma. Hypothalamic glioma poses a diagnostic dilemma with craniopharyngioma and other hypothalamic region tumors, when they present with atypical clinical or imaging patterns. Neuroimaging modalities especially MRI plays a very important role in scrutinizing the lesions in the hypothalamic region. We report a case of a hypothalamic glioma masquerading as a craniopharyngioma on imaging along with brief review of both the tumors.
Nosocomial Escherichia coli meningitis in adults: Report of four cases and literature review
Authors: Khan Fahmi Yousef , Abukhattab Mohammed , Anand Deshmukh
Published: September 2013

We report four cases of nosocomial E. coli meningitis, in male patients with accidental and neurosurgical trauma. The interval between accidents/neurosurgical procedures and the onset of meningitis was 2-15 days (mean 6.25 days). The most consistent clinical features were fever and deterioration of consciousness level. Emergence of extended spectrum beta lactamase E. coli strains had been observed in two (50%) of our cases and the mean duration of antimicrobial treatment was 16.5 days (range: 6-24 days). Two of the four patients (50%) died in the hospital.
Twelfth cranial nerve involvement in Guillian Barre syndrome
Authors: Nanda Subrat Kumar , Jayalakshmi Sita , Ruikar Devashish , Surath Mohandas
Published: September 2013

Guillian Barre Syndrome (GBS) is associated with cranial nerve involvement. Commonest cranial nerves involved were the facial and bulbar (IXth and Xth). Involvement of twelfth cranial nerve is rare in GBS. We present a case of GBS in a thirteen years old boy who developed severe tongue weakness and wasting at two weeks after the onset of GBS. The wasting and weakness of tongue improved at three months of follow up. Brief review of the literature about XIIth cranial nerve involvement in GBS is discussed.
Absence status seen in an adult patient
Authors: Hasan H , Demir Caner F , Cura Hasan S
Published: September 2013

Absence status epilepticus (ASE) is a type of nonconvulsive status epilepticus in which continuous or recurrent generalized epileptiform discharges are associated with a varying grade of consciousness impairment. Absence status epilepticus may be obtained during progress of many epileptic syndromes, in several metabolic disturbances and related to use of several drugs. Absence status epilepticus is generally seen in childhood; rarely it can be seen in adulthood. In this paper, the case which has never diagnosed until now in spite of many absence seizures for years, applied for absence seizures to our clinic and diagnosed for juvenile absence epilepsy, has been discussed.
The odd-dimensional analogue of a theorem of Getzler and Wu
Authors: Xie Zhizhang
Published: September 2013

We prove an analogue for odd-dimensional manifolds with boundary, in the b-calculus setting, of the higher Atiyah–Patodi–Singer index theorem by Getzler and by Wu, and thus obtain a natural counterpart of the eta invariant for even-dimensional closed manifolds.
Nonperturbative spectral action of round coset spaces of SU(2)
Authors: Teh Kevin
Published: September 2013

We compute the spectral action of SU(2)/

\Gamma

with the trivial spin structure and the round metric and find it in each case to be equal to

\frac{1}{\vert \Gamma \vert}(\Lambda^3 \hat{f}^{(2)}(0) - \frac{1}{4}\Lambda \hat{f}(0) )+ O(\Lambda^{-\infty})

. We do this by explicitly computing the spectrum of the Dirac operator for SU(2)/

\Gamma

equipped with the trivial spin structure and a selection of metrics. Here

\Gamma

is a finite subgroup of SU(2). In the case where

\Gamma

is cyclic, or dicyclic, we consider the one-parameter family of Berger metrics, which includes the round metric, and when

\Gamma

is the binary tetrahedral, binary octahedral or binary icosahedral group, we only consider the case of the round metric.
Classification of spin structures on the noncommutative $n$-torus
Authors: Venselaar Jan Jitse
Published: September 2013

We classify spin structures on the noncommutative torus and find that the noncommutative

n

-torus has

2^n

spin structures corresponding to isospectral deformations of spin structures on the commutative

n

-torus. For

n\geq 4

the classification depends on Connes’ spin manifold theorem. In addition, we study unitary equivalences of these spin structures.