bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Intracavernous Injection and Audiovisual Sexual Stimulation during Real-Time Pharmacopenile Doppler Ultrasonography in Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Tang Jin , Tang Yuxin , Dai Yingbo , Lu Li , Jiang Xianzhen
Published: April 2013

Introduction: The objective of this study was to explore the role of intracavernous injection (ICI) and audiovisual sexual stimulation (AVSS) during real-time pharmacopenile Doppler ultrasonography (PDDU) in vasculogenic subtypes of erectile dysfunction. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 consecutive men with erectile dysfunction (ED) were enrolled. Each patient received 2 sessions of real-time PDDU. Session A was performed under ICI alone. Session B was performed under ICI plus AVSS. The interval between sessions was 7 days. Penile vascular parameters, including peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and resistive index, were monitored 5, 10 and 20 min after the start of the test. Patients were asked to describe the level of sexual arousal generated by choosing one of the pre-set answers. Results: In veno-occlusive ED, during session A, EDV at 10 min was significantly greater than at 5 and 20 min (p < 0.05). During session B, there was a significant difference regarding PSV in arteriogenic ED (p < 0.05). Mixed vasculogenic ED showed significant differences in PSV levels during session B, and EDV at 5 min was greater than at 10 and 20 min (p < 0.05). PDDU under ICI alone diagnosed 34 (17%), 35 (17.5%), 31 (15.5%) and 100 (50%) cases of arteriogenic, veno-occlusive, mixed vasculogenic and nonvasculogenic ED, respectively. The combination of ICI plus AVSS diagnosed 27 (13.5%), 44 (22%), 7 (3.5%) and 122 (60.7%) cases, respectively. Conclusions: Adding AVSS during PDDU improves the recording of physiologic erectile response and may help the physician to accurately evaluate the cause of ED.
Comparison between the Intraoperative Use of Polyvinyl Chloride Cover and Surgical Compresses for Preventing Postoperative Adhesions
Authors: Akyol C. , Sozener U. , Ozgun A. , Karabork A. , Kuzu I. , Cakmak A. , Erkek A.B. , Erdemli E. , Kuzu M.A.
Published: April 2013

Background/Purpose: Surgical compresses used for retraction during major abdominal and pelvic procedures lead to postoperative adhesion formation resulting from damage to the visceral peritoneum. This study investigates whether polyvinyl chloride (PVC) covers cause less postsurgical adhesion and inflammation than surgical compresses in an animal model. Methods: Female Wistar albino rats (n = 160) were divided into three groups (compress, PVC cover and control), which were then divided into 16 subgroups (n = 10/group). All animals underwent midline laparotomy and cecal abrasion. A metal retractor, which applies a constant force, was then placed on the small intestine for 2 h. In the control group, no material was placed under the retractor, whereas a surgical compress or PVC cover was placed in the experimental animals. Full-thickness small intestinal biopsies were obtained and examined by light and electron microscopy. The following parameters were evaluated: congestion, mesothelial proliferation, leukocyte migration and collagenization. Adhesions were scored according to the Nair, Knightly and Mazuji scoring systems. Results: All inflammation scores were significantly higher in the compress group than in the other two groups. However, no significant difference was observed between the PVC cover and control groups. Adhesions were more frequent in the compress group than in the other two groups, regardless of the scoring system used. Conclusions: Surgical compresses used in abdominal and pelvic surgeries cause inflammation and adhesion. Contrary to surgical compresses, PVC covers do not cause inflammation and adhesion, which may considerably reduce adhesion-related complications in abdominopelvic surgeries.
Renal Inflammatory Changes in Acute Hepatic Failure-Associated Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Shimizu Akira , Ishii Eiichi , Masuda Yukinari , Sato Ayako , Piao Honglan , Kunugi Shinobu , Takahashi Mikiko , Terasaki Mika , Nagasaka Shinya , Terasaki Yasuhiro , Ohashi Ryuji , Morioka Testuo , Fukuda Yuh
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in advanced liver dysfunction. Our aim is to clarify the mechanisms of acute hepatic failure (AHF)-associated AKI. Methods: We examined the mechanisms of AHF-associated AKI, which is characterized by AKI in AHF and hyperbilirubinemia, following DA-to-Lewis rat liver transplantation. Results: During the progression of AHF and hyperbilirubinemia in liver graft rejection, AHF-associated AKI gradually developed by day 11. Degeneration and apoptotic cells were apparent in tubular epithelial cells with bile pigment accumulation and mitochondrial degeneration. Injury of peritubular capillaries (PTCs) was also noted with apoptotic endothelial cells, decreased expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, accumulation of α-smooth muscle actin+ pericytes and/or myofibroblasts, and inflammation. Angiogenic factors including vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin-1, and angiopoietin-2 in the cortex were decreased on day 11. In addition, a marked reduction in the velocity of red blood cells in PTCs was evident in vivo. Conclusions: AHF-associated AKI seems to be mediated by renal tubular epithelial cell injury with bile pigment accumulation, impaired microcirculation caused by PTC endothelial cell injury with depletion of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and angiogenic factors, and by a decrease in RBC velocity and renal inflammation. Multiple mechanisms including tubular and PTC injuries and renal inflammation may be involved in the development of AHF-associated AKI.
Renoprotective Effect of Pioglitazone by the Prevention of Glomerular Hyperfiltration through the Possible Restoration of Altered Macula Densa Signaling in Rats with Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Asakura Juko , Hasegawa Hajime , Takayanagi Kaori , Shimazu Tomokazu , Suge Rie , Shimizu Taisuke , Iwashita Takatsugu , Tayama Yosuke , Matsuda Akihiko , Kanozawa Koichi , Araki Nobuo , Mitarai Tetsuya
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Pioglitazone (PGZ), one of the thiazolidinediones, has been known to show renoprotective effects. In this study, we focused on the effect of PGZ on glomerular hyperfiltration (GHF), resultant glomerular injury and altered macula densa signaling as a cause of sustained GHF through modified tubuloglomerular feedback in rats with diabetic nephropathy. Methods: Kidneys from 24-week-old male OLETF rats and LET rats, nondiabetic controls, were used for the experiment. PGZ was administered (10 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 2 weeks from 22 to 24 weeks of age in some of the OLETF rats (OLETF+PGZ). Results: Parameters relating GHF, kidney weight, creatinine clearance, urine albumin/creatinine ratio and glomerular surface were all increased in OLETF rats and partially restored in OLETF+PGZ rats. Expressions of desmin and TGF-β were also increased in OLETF rats and restored in OLETF+PGZ rats. The changes in TGF-β expression were confirmed to be independent of podocyte number. Finally, the immunoreactivity of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in the macula densa was assessed for the evaluation of macula densa signaling. Altered intensities of nNOS and COX-2 in OLETF rats were restored in OLETF+PGZ rats, which agreed with the gene expression analysis (nNOS: 100.2 ± 2.9% in LET, 64.2 ± 2.7% in OLETF, 87.4 ± 12.1% in OLETF+PGZ; COX-2: 100.8 ± 7.4% in LET, 249.2 ± 19.4% in OLETF, 179.9 ± 13.5% in OLETF+PGZ; n = 5) and the semiquantitative analysis of nNOS/COX-2-positive cells. Conclusion: PGZ effectively attenuated the GHF and hyperfiltration-associated glomerular injury in diabetic nephropathy. The restoration of altered macula densa signaling might be involved in the renoprotective effect of PGZ.
Comparison of Fluid Absorption between Transurethral Enucleation and Transurethral Resection for Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Authors: Ran Longfei , He Weiyang , Zhu Xin , Zhou Qingsong , Gou Xin
Published: April 2013

Introduction: Although transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) remains the reference standard for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), the concern about complications promotes researchers to develop alternative surgical methods with fewer complications. In this study, we compared the safety and efficacy between the transurethral plasma kinetic enucleation of prostate (TUPKEP) and transurethral plasma kinetic resection of prostate (TUPKRP), mainly including absorption of irrigation fluid, the operation time, the weight of prostate tissue removed and severe complications. Methods: Sixty BPH patients were randomly and evenly assigned to the TUPKEP or TUPKRP group. The irrigation fluid used in both groups was 1% ethanol-containing saline solution. The ethanol concentrations in the subjects' end expiration were measured during operation. The volume of irrigation fluid absorbed was calculated accordingly. Results: No significant difference was found in operation time between two groups, whereas the weight of prostate tissue resection was significantly higher in the TUPKEP than that in the TUPKRP group. Conclusion: The study provides evidence for the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of both bipolar transurethral techniques. Further, compared to the TUPKRP group, the TUPKEP group has more efficient for resection of prostatic hyperplasia tissue, even though in terms of fluid absorption, no difference has been found in both groups. Ethanol monitoring is simple, safe and effective, which is beneficial for enhancing safety procedures.
Uraemic Pruritus: Relief of Itching by Gabapentin and Pregabalin
Authors: Rayner Hugh , Baharani Jyoti , Smith Steve , Suresh Vijayan , Dasgupta Indranil
Published: April 2013

Background: Pruritus (skin irritation or itching) is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 4 and 5. It is associated with disrupted sleep, reduced quality of life, depression and increased mortality. A video of a patient describing the symptoms is at vimeo.com/49458473. Methods: We used gabapentin or pregabalin in 71 consecutive patients, 82% male. 25 had CKD stage 4 or 5, median eGFR = 17, range 9-30; 40 were on haemodialysis; 6 on peritoneal dialysis. Median itch severity score out of 10 = 8, range 6-10; median duration of itching = 6 months, range 0.5-240. Serum calcium ≤2.60 mmol/l (≤10.4 mg/dl) in 87% patients, phosphate ≤1.8 mmol/l (≤5.6 mg/dl) in 75%. 63% had used antihistamines and not gained relief. Starting dose of gabapentin 100 mg after dialysis or daily. Patients intolerant of gabapentin were offered pregabalin, starting dose 25 mg after dialysis or daily. Results: Gabapentin relieved itching in 47 patients (66%). A video of a patient describing the effect is at vimeo.com/49455976. 26 patients (37%) suffered side effects from gabapentin. Of 21 patients who stopped gabapentin due to side effects, 16 started pregabalin. Pregabalin relieved itching in 13 patients (81%). In total, gabapentin or pregabalin relieved itching in 60 patients (85%), median follow-up 2 months (range 1-8 months). Median itch severity out of 10 reduced from 8 to 1. Conclusions: Gabapentin or pregabalin relieved itching in 85% of 71 consecutively treated CKD patients. Patients should be advised about side effects and the drug initiated at a low dose. Patients intolerant of gabapentin may tolerate pregabalin.
Spontaneous Perforation of Pyometra: A Report of Seven Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ikeda Michi , Takahashi Toshifumi , Kurachi Hirohisa
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: The spontaneous perforation of pyometra is very rare and is associated with a poor prognosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors for patient survival. Patients and Methods: We reported on 7 patients with spontaneous rupture of pyometra. We also reviewed 47 additional published cases. Thus, all 54 patients were analyzed for mortality. Results: We investigated the prognosis in 44 of 54 patients, excluding 8 patients with undocumented outcome and 2 who died of other diseases. The mortality rate was 25% (11 of 44). In univariate analysis, variables such as age, correct preoperative diagnosis, comorbidities, the presence of malignancy, and hysterectomy were not significant between surviving and deceased patients. In bacterial cultures from the peritoneal cavity, the most common etiological organisms were Escherichia coli and anaerobes such as Bacteroides and Peptococcus species. The rate of isolation of anaerobic bacteria was significantly increased in patients who died (odds ratio, 6.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.28-31.02; p = 0.04). Conclusion: Antibiotic therapy for E. coli and anaerobes should be considered in patients with spontaneous perforation of pyometra.
CCM3 Mutations Are Associated with Early-Onset Cerebral Hemorrhage and Multiple Meningiomas
Authors: Riant F. , Bergametti F. , Fournier H.-D. , Chapon F. , Michalak-Provost S. , Cecillon M. , Lejeune P. , Hosseini H. , Choe C. , Orth M. , Bernreuther C. , Boulday G. , Denier C. , Labauge P. , Tournier-Lasserve E.
Published: April 2013

Mutations of CCM3/PDCD10 cause 10-15% of hereditary cerebral cavernous malformations. The phenotypic characterization of CCM3-mutated patients has been hampered by the limited number of patients harboring a mutation in this gene. This is the first report on molecular and clinical features of a large cohort of CCM3 patients. Molecular screening for point mutations and deletions was used to identify 54 CCM3-mutated index patients. Age at referral and clinical onset, type of inaugural events and presence of extra-axial lesions were investigated in these 54 index patients and 22 of their mutated relatives. Mean age at clinical onset was 23.0 ± 16 years. Clinical onset occurred before 10 years in 26% of the patients, and cerebral hemorrhage was the initial presentation in 72% of these patients. Multiple extra-axial, dural-based lesions were detected in 7 unrelated patients. These lesions proved to be meningiomas in 3 patients who underwent neurosurgery and pathological examination. This ‘multiple meningiomas' phenotype is not associated with a specific CCM3 mutation. Hence, CCM3 mutations are associated with a high risk of early-onset cerebral hemorrhage and with the presence of multiple meningiomas.
Evaluating Real-World Use of Cinacalcet and Biochemical Response to Therapy in US Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Kilpatrick Ryan D. , Newsome Britt B. , Zaun David , Liu Jiannong , Solid Craig A. , Nieman Kimberly , St.Peter Wendy L.
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Data describing real-world use and effectiveness of cinacalcet are limited. We aimed to characterize predictors of treatment and changes in secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) biochemistry after cinacalcet initiation. Methods: We studied 25,250 in-center hemodialysis patients from a large dialysis provider, alive through November 2004, with no prior cinacalcet prescription. Patients were followed until initiation of cinacalcet, censoring, death, or July 31, 2007. Initiators were further followed for dose titration and discontinuation. Predictors of these events were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards modeling. Biochemical parameters and other SHPT medication use were compared between baseline, pre-initiation, and post-initiation time points. Results: Over an average of 1.25 years of follow-up, 30% of patients initiated cinacalcet therapy. Between baseline and initiation (mean of 386 days), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and phosphorus levels increased 78 and 7%, respectively, in these patients. After adjustment, cinacalcet initiation was associated with higher SHPT severity, younger age, African-American race, higher phosphorus levels, and more comorbidity. Within 1 month of initiation, median PTH was reduced by 15-30% and phosphorus by 3-5%. Reductions were sustained or increased over 12 months, depending on initiating PTH level and whether dose up-titration occurred. Discontinuation was common, although many patients reinitiated. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of patients experienced SHPT progression and initiated cinacalcet treatment. Reductions in biochemistry varied by disease severity and whether doses were titrated.
Determination of ATP and ADP Secretion from Human and Mouse Platelets by an HPLC Assay
Authors: von Papen Michael , Gambaryan Stepan , Schütz Claudia , Geiger Jörg
Published: April 2013

Background: Secretion of ADP and ATP is an essential prerequisite for platelet aggregation. Impaired nucleotide secretion can cause aggregation defects and increased bleeding risk. Quantitative determination of platelet nucleotide content and exocytosis is thus of importance for the characterization and diagnosis of bleeding phenotypes. For transgenic animal models with hemostatic defects analysis of potential secretion defects is as well imperative. Methods: Supernatants of washed platelets and platelet-rich plasma were analyzed by HPLC for ADP and ATP concentration. Calibration of the HPLC data was accomplished with an internal standard compensating for loss of analyte, detection sensitivity, and interference of the biomatrix. Results: HPLC analysis of nucleotide secretion was carried out with human and mouse platelets. Detection limits were determined for washed platelet and platelet-rich plasma samples. In the physiological concentration range linearity with respect to the peak area is maintained. Conclusion: The method combines reasonable sensitivity with robustness. The internal standard ensures reliable quantification of nucleotide concentrations even in presence of otherwise interfering substances. The low sample consumption renders possible the application to analysis of small samples like in mouse experiments.
Overexpression of the Hedgehog Signalling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Dimitrova Kamelia , Stoehr Matthaeus , Dehghani Faramarz , Dietz Andreas , Wichmann Gunnar , Bertolini Julia , Mozet Christian
Published: April 2013

Background: Overexpression of the Hedgehog (HH) signalling pathway has been described in several malignancies and is associated with a poor prognosis. HH signalling blockade reduces tumour growth in vitro and in vivo. We aimed to determine whether head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) express HH proteins in comparison to healthy mucosa. Patients and Methods: Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue sections of 10 patients with HNSCC were stained with fluorescence-labelled antibodies for cytokeratin and HH proteins (SHH, PTCH1/2, SMO, Gli1-3) and photographs were taken with a laser scanning microscope. The pixel count and colour intensity were analysed in RGB (red/green/blue) colour mode, and expression levels were compared to healthy mucosa. Results: Image analysis in RGB mode provided objective evidence for the over-expression of HH signalling components in HNSCC, particularly with regard to the transcription factors Gli1 (10-fold) and SHH (5-fold) in comparison with healthy mucosa. The lowest levels were found for Gli3 in HNSCC. Conclusions: We postulate pivotal roles of Gli1 and SHH expression in the carcinogenesis of HNSCC. HH pathway overexpression appears to be involved in the initiation of tumour growth and spread due to its stem cell-modulating properties. Detection of HH pathway components, and especially Gli1 and SHH, in HNSCC might offer a promising target for further anticancer research in HNSCC.
Tissue Factor Expression on Platelet Surface during Preparation and Storage of Platelet Concentrates
Authors: Vignoli Alfonso , Giaccherini Cinzia , Marchetti Marina , Verzeroli Cristina , Gargantini Chiara , Da Prada Luca , Giussani Barbara , Falanga Anna
Published: April 2013

Background: Tissue factor (TF), the main activator of blood coagulation, is expressed on platelet surface and, together with procoagulant phospholipids, contributes to the global coagulation potential of these blood components. The present study evaluated, for the first time, the expression of TF on platelet surface during preparation and storage of platelet concentrates (PC) for transfusional use. Methods: Platelet TF was measured by flow cytometry in healthy donor whole blood (WB) and in pooled buffy-coat-derived PC on the day of preparation and up to 4 days of storage in parallel with classical markers of platelet activation, i.e., fibrinogen, P-selectin, and glycoprotein GPIIb. Data were analyzed according to donor age and blood ABO group. Results: TF was detected on whole blood platelets and was found highest in O donors. Compared to whole blood, platelet surface TF was higher upon PC preparation and further increased during storage. The rise in TF levels positively correlated with the elevations of the other platelet markers. Conclusions: Our findings show that platelet surface TF is maintained in PC obtained by the pooled buffy coat method. Further studies are warranted to investigate a possible correlation between TF levels and the hemostatic response of the platelet transfusion recipient.
Amelioration of Persistent, Non-Ketotic Hyperglycemia-Induced Hemichorea by Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Kaseda Yumiko , Yamawaki Takemori , Ikeda Junko , Hayata Miwa , Dohi Eisuke , Ohshita Tomohiko , Ochi Kazuhide , Nomura Eiichi , Matsumoto Masayasu
Published: April 2013

Diabetic hemichorea-hemiballism with non-ketotic hyperglycemia is usually a benign syndrome. Here, we report a 78-year-old woman with persistent hemichorea (HC) for longer than 1 year with a recurrence after rapid correction of hyperglycemia. Following the disappearance of the characteristic T1 hyperintensity at 3 months after onset, an MRI demonstrated T2* hypointensity and atrophic changes in the contralateral striatum, suggesting irreversible neuronal loss and some vascular proliferation. The electrophysiological examination using transcranial magnetic stimulation revealed significantly shorter cortical silent periods (CSPs) on the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1), possibly in relation to cortical hyperexcitability. We have applied 10 daily sessions of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the contralateral M1 to reduce the hyperexcitability. The HC was suppressed during and for several minutes after rTMS with prolongation of CSPs. After rehabilitation therapy, the patient was able to walk independently with a walker. We suggest that the combination of low-frequency rTMS and rehabilitation therapy may be a possible choice in medically refractory involuntary movements.
Cochleovestibular Deficit as First Manifestation of Syphilis in a HIV-Infected Patient
Authors: Weder Stefan , Senn Pascal , Caversaccio Marco , Vibert Dominique
Published: April 2013

We report the detailed documented case of a 57-year-old homosexual HIV-positive man with bilateral cochleovestibular deficits as a first symptom of syphilis infection in early stage II disease. As a morphological substrate, a strong enhancement of both inner ears and vestibulocochlear nerves were found on gadolinium-enhanced MR scans. The serological tests identified an active infection with Treponema pallidum. After a high-dose treatment with penicillin G and prednisolone, the auditory and vestibular functions and the MR morphology of the vestibulocochlear nerves and inner ears on both sides returned to normal.
Factors Related with Adiponectinemia in Obese and Normal-Weight Women and with Its Variation in Weight Loss Programs
Authors: Silva-Nunes José , Oliveira Ana , Duarte Leone , Barradas Margarida , Melão Alice , Brito Miguel , Veiga Luisa
Published: April 2013

Objective: To assess different factors influencing adiponectinemia in obese and normal-weight women; to identify factors associated with the variation (Δ) in adiponectinemia in obese women following a 6-month weight loss program, according to surgical/non-surgical interventions. Methods: We studied 100 normal-weight women and 112 obese premenopausal women; none of them was on any medical treatment. Women were characterized for anthropometrics, daily macronutrient intake, smoking status, contraceptives use, adiponectin as well as IL-6 and TNF-α serum concentrations. Results: Adiponectinemia was lower in obese women (p < 0.001), revealing an inverse association with waist-to-hip ratio (p < 0.001; r = -0.335). Normal-weight women presented lower adiponectinemia among smokers (p = 0.041); body fat, waist-to-hip ratio, TNF-α levels, carbohydrate intake, and smoking all influence adiponectinemia (r2 = 0.436). After weight loss interventions, a significant modification in macronutrient intake occurs followed by anthropometrics decrease (chiefly after bariatric procedures) and adiponectinemia increase (similar after surgical and non-surgical interventions). After bariatric intervention, Δ adiponectinemia was inversely correlated to Δ waist circumference and Δ carbohydrate intake (r2 = 0.706). Conclusion: Anthropometrics, diet, smoking, and TNF-α levels all influence adiponectinemia in normal-weight women, although explaining less than 50% of it. In obese women, anthropometrics modestly explain adiponectinemia. Opposite to non-surgical interventions, after bariatric surgery adiponectinemia increase is largely explained by diet composition and anthropometric changes.
Successful Resection of Intracranial Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Okimoto Kenichiro , Ogasawara Sadahisa , Chiba Tetsuhiro , Kanai Fumihiko , Yokota Hajime , Motoyama Tenyu , Suzuki Eiichiro , Ooka Yoshihiko , Tawada Akinobu , Iwadate Yasuo , Saeki Naokatsu , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: April 2013

Intracranial metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare, but has an extremely poor prognosis. We report a case with successful surgical removal of intracranial metastasis of HCC. A 32-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with severe vomiting. He had been followed for liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis B virus infection and received a right hepatic trisectionectomy for HCC 1 year earlier. For the recurrence of HCC, sorafenib had been administered 6 months before admission. On admission, he exhibited consciousness disturbance, which gradually worsened. Two days later, both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intra-axial tumor with perifocal edema and hemorrhage in the left frontal lobe. The tumor was successfully removed by craniotomy and pathological examination revealed that it was composed of moderately differentiated HCC cells. The day after surgical resection of the tumor, his consciousness returned to normal. Subsequently, he was treated with hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin using an implanted port-catheter system. Surgical resection of intracranial metastasis of HCC would be important and meaningful in some cases.
Congenital Erythropoietic Porphyria: Mutation of the Uroporphyrinogen III Cosynthase Gene in a Vietnamese Patient
Authors: Kim Dao Hoang Thien , Kawazoe Asako , Bang Pham Dang , Thanh Nguyen Tien , Taketani Shigeru
Published: April 2013

Congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP) arises from an autosomal recessive inherited disorder of the porphyrin metabolism, which leads to the accumulation of uroporphyrinogen I in bone marrow, skin and several other tissues by a deficiency of uroporphyrinogen III cosynthase (UROS). We studied a Vietnamese patient and her family suffering from severe cutaneous photosensitivity with skin fragility, bullous lesions and hypertrichosis on light-exposed areas. A missense mutation in the UROS gene was identified as a transversion of G to T at nucleotide 11,776, resulting in a substitution of valine by phenylalanine at codon 3 of exon 2. The patient showed a homozygous mutant profile, and the heterozygous state was observed in the parents. The activity of mutated UROS expressed in Escherichia coli was less than 16.1% that of the control, indicating that the markedly reduced activity of UROS is responsible for CEP. We described for the first time a mutation in the UROS gene in a Southeast Asian patient and a molecular diagnosis for the identification of clinically asymptomatic heterozygous mutation carriers and families with CEP.
The Molecular Mechanisms of Offspring Effects from Obese Pregnancy
Authors: Dowling Daniel , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: April 2013

The incidence of obesity, increased weight gain and the popularity of high-fat / high-sugar diets are seriously impacting upon the global population. Billions of individuals are affected, and although diet and lifestyle are of paramount importance to the development of adult obesity, compelling evidence is emerging which suggests that maternal obesity and related disorders may be passed on to the next generation by non-genetic means. The processes acting within the uteri of obese mothers may permanently predispose offspring to a diverse plethora of diseases ranging from obesity and diabetes to psychiatric disorders. This review aims to summarise some of the molecular mechanisms and active processes currently known about maternal obesity and its effect on foetal and neonatal physiology and metabolism. Complex and multifactorial networks of molecules are intertwined and culminate in a pathologically synergistic manner to cause disruption and disorganisation of foetal physiology. This altered phenotype may potentiate the cycle of intergenerational transmission of obesity and related disorders.
Obesity and the Risk of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Pezzini Alessandro , Grassi Mario , Paciaroni Maurizio , Zini Andrea , Silvestrelli Giorgio , Iacoviello Licia , Di Castelnuovo Augusto , Del Zotto Elisabetta , Caso Valeria , Nichelli Paolo Frigio , Giossi Alessia , Volonghi Irene , Simone Anna Maria , Lanari Alessia , Costa Paolo , Poli Loris , Pentore Roberta , Falzone Francesca , Gamba Massimo , Morotti Andrea , Ciccone Alfonso , Ritelli Marco , Guido Davide , Colombi Marina , De Gaetano Giovanni , Agnelli Giancarlo , Padovani Alessandro
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose—

The effect of obesity on the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) may depend on the pathophysiology of vessel damage. To further address this issue, we investigated and quantified the correlations between obesity and obesity-related conditions in the causal pathways leading to ICH.

Methods—

A total of 777 ICH cases ≥55 years of age (287 lobar ICH and 490 deep ICH) were consecutively enrolled as part of the Multicenter Study on Cerebral Hemorrhage in Italy and compared with 2083 control subjects by a multivariate path analysis model. Separate analyses were conducted for deep and lobar ICH.

Results—

Obesity was not independently associated with an increased risk of lobar ICH (odds ratio [OR], 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58–1.01) or deep ICH (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.95–1.45) when compared with control subjects. The path analysis confirmed the nonsignificant total effect of obesity on the risk of lobar ICH (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.58–1.02) but demonstrated a significant indirect effect on the risk of deep ICH (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.03–1.57), mostly determined by hypertension (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04–1.11) and diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.07). Obesity was also associated with an increased risk of deep ICH when compared with lobar ICH (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.14–2.31).

Conclusions—

Obesity increases the risk of deep ICH, mostly through an indirect effect on hypertension and other intermediate obesity-related comorbidities, but has no major influence on the risk of lobar ICH. This supports the hypothesis of different, vessel-specific, biological mechanisms underlying the relationship between obesity and cerebral hemorrhage.
Favorable Vascular Profile is an Independent Predictor of Outcome
Authors: Schellinger Peter D. , Köhrmann Martin , Liu Songling , Dillon William P. , Nogueira Raul G. , Shuaib Ashfaq , Liebeskind David S. ,   for the SENTIS Trial Investigators
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose—

We hypothesized that a favorable vascular profile (FVP) defined as anatomic intactness of the Circle of Willis combined with a stable cerebral perfusion pressure (mean arterial blood pressure>65 mm Hg) is a prerequisite for collateral recruitment and maintenance and may improve outcome. We performed post hoc analyses of a subset of the Safety and Efficacy of NeuroFlo Technology in Ischemic Stroke (SENTIS) trial data set to identify whether FVP is associated with independent outcome.

Methods—

SENTIS was a randomized, controlled device trial comparing hemodynamic augmentation with the NeuroFlo device to best medical treatment. We identified all patients from the primary dataset (n=515 patients) with available intracranial vascular imaging at baseline. Vascular imaging data were read blind to clinical and treatment data. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictors of independent outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) at 90 days.

Results—

A total of 192/515 SENTIS subjects had available baseline vascular imaging (91 treated/101 controls). Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups. Overall, FVP was seen in 89.6% of patients and predicted independent outcome in univariate (odds ratio, 7.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.68–33.18;
P
=0.0082) and multiple logistic regression analyses (odds ratio, 10.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.78–58.57;
P
=0.0091). Aside from FVP, only baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scales (NIHSS; odds ratio, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.67–0.82,
P
<0.0001) entered the predictive model. There was no interaction with randomization to treatment or control.

Conclusions—

FVP and baseline NIHSS independently predicted outcome in this subset of the SENTIS population. FVP is a novel parameter to predict outcome of acute stroke patients and further studies will establish its potential role for selection of optimal candidates for hemodynamic augmentation.

Clinical Trial Registration Information—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00119717
Scilla vardaria (Asparagaceae subfamily Scilloideae): a threatened new species of Scilla L. from Northeast Turkey with a floral corona
Authors: YILDIRIM Hasan , GEMİCİ Yusuf , WILKIN Paul
Published: April 2013

Scilla vardaria Yıldırım & Gemici (Asparagaceae) is described as a new species. Diagnostic morphological characters, a full description and detailed illustrations are provided on the basis of the type specimen and observations of wild populations. The new species is characterized by the conical floral corona structure formed by fusion of its filaments, with anthers arising almost at the floral corona apex. Its seeds are borne in pyriform capsules and are oblong, straw to pale yellow with a cucullate, pale creamy yellow elaiosome which is adherent to the testa and the bulb is brown-pink. It is easily distinguished from all other Scilla species on the basis of these morphological characters.
The Pursuit of the Kalman Philtre
Authors: Quill James X.
Published: April 2013

Although it is unusual for any article published in ‘Measurement + Control’ to be reprinted, a request for just such an action was recently received. Several experts have since been consulted and, at their unanimous insistence, this article — which first appeared in our December 1980 issue — is being put once again before our readers. And to help set today's scene, a personal letter to the Editor from one of our experts is also reproduced on the page opposite.
Mathematics at Work — A Perspective on the Development of Cryptography over the Last Twenty-Five Years
Authors: Beker Henry J
Published: April 2013

The Institute's 1999 Thomson Lecture — held on 29 September at Glaziers Hall in London — provided an intriguing insight into a subject that is both established and rapidly developing. It is an example of leading-edge technology, and yet its roots are soundly based in the world of mathematics and its application. An old dog teaching us new tricks, one might say. The speaker was Professor Henry J Beker. And if his face seems familiar to some readers, that might be because his photograph appeared in The Daily Telegraph the following day with news concerning Baltimore Technologies' expansion into the USA.
Manage the Measurements
Authors: Smith Eurlng R J
Published: April 2013

This article was prepared for presentation at one of the current series of ‘measurement roadshows’ organised by NPL — the ‘Competing Precisely Project’ with which the Institute is closely associated. It is aimed primarily at the users of instrument and measurement systems. But it may also provide some food for thought to those supplying such equipment, as failure of or difficulties with the overall measurement process will inevitably reflect upon them too.
Brillouin and Rayleigh Signal Discrimination by Means of a π-Phase-Shifted Bragg Grating for Distributed Temperature Sensing
Authors: Boulet C. , Webb D. J. , Jackson D. A. , Douay M. , Niay P.
Published: April 2013

We report a novel technique to separate Brillouin and Rayleigh scattered light in order to generate the Landau-Placzek ratio required for distributed temperature sensing.
Dual Measurement of Strain and Temperature Using the Combination of Er3+ -Doped Fibre Fluorescence Lifetime and a Fibre Bragg Grating
Authors: Wade S.A. , Forsyth D.I. , Guofu Q. , Chen X. , Chuan T. S. , Yong W. , Sun T. , Grattan K T V
Published: April 2013

Fibre optic sensing devices have been produced for the dual measurement of strain and temperature using the combined properties of fibre Bragg gratings and the fluorescence lifetime of erbium-doped fibre. Two different sensors were constructed with the fibre Bragg grating written in normal fibre and also written directly in the Er3+-doped fibre. Results obtained indicate that this technique can be used to measure strains and temperatures with accuracies of approximately 1.2°C and 20.4 με
Tool Wear Monitoring in Turning: A Neural Network Application
Authors: Sick Bernhard
Published: April 2013

Tool wear monitoring is the most difficult task in the area of tool condition monitoring for metal-cutting manufacturing processes. The main objective is to improve the process reliability, but the production costs need to be reduced as well. This article summarises a new approach for online and indirect tool wear estimation or classification in turning using neural networks. This technique uses a physical process model describing the influence of cutting conditions (such as the feed rate) on measured process parameters (here: cutting force signals) in order to separate signal changes caused by variable cutting conditions from signal changes caused by tool wear. Features extracted from the normalised process parameters are taken as inputs of a dynamic, but nonrecurrent neural network that estimates the current state of the tool. It is shown that the estimation error can be reduced significantly with this combination of a hard computing and a soft computing technique. The article represents an extended summary of the author's investigations and publications in the area of online and indirect tool wear monitoring in turning by means of artificial neural networks.
A Neural Network Based Shape-from-Shading Measuring Technique for Engineering Industries
Authors: Chow Tommy W.S. , Cho Siu-Yeung , Ho John K.L.
Published: April 2013

A new approach for measuring shape and surface of an object for engineering measurement is proposed. The proposed methodology is a neural network based Shape from Shading (SFS) technique. In this SFS approach, the physical parameters of the reflectivity under different lighting conditions are interpreted by the neural network weights. The proposed technique optimises a proper reflectance model by an effective neural learning algorithm. The depth of the object surface is recovered by using a simple SFS recursive algorithm. Experimental results are demonstrated that the proposed technique exhibits high efficiency and accuracy of measuring an object surface for the manufacturing industry.
Adaptive Neural Network Controller for Non-Affine Nonlinear Systems and its Application to CSTR
Authors: Wang J. , Ge S. S. , Lee T. H.
Published: April 2013

In this paper; a new robust adaptive neural network controller (RANNC) is presented for a class of non-affine nonlinear systems in the presence of unknown nonlinearities and disturbances. Firstly, the existence of an ideal implicit feedback linearisation control (IFLC) is established based on implicit function theory. Using Taylor series expansion, it is shown that the control of non-affine nonlinear systems is equivalent to the control ofaffine nonlinear systems in the neighbourhood of the operating trajectory under mild conditions. Then, a robust adaptive neural network control scheme is presented for the transformed nonlinear systems by using neural networks as universal approximators for the unknown system nonlinearities. The proposed RANNC can guarantee that all the signals in the closed-loop system are bounded and the tracking error asymptotically converges to zero. Simulation studies on the control of a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) system are used to show the effectiveness of the scheme.
An Interactive Data Acquisition and Control System Coupled on a Pulsatile Pipe Flow Test Rig
Authors: Gündoğdu Mehmet Yaşar , Çarpinliouğlu Melda Özdinç
Published: April 2013

A test rig to be used for time-dependent static pressure and velocity distribution measurements in a pulsatile pipe flow with laminar, transitional and turbulent regimes was initially designed and constructed. An interactive data acquisition and control system including data storage acquisition, and processing of the measured data together with interactive control of corresponding test rig components was designed and operated on the constructed test rig. A high speed computer aided processing of time-dependent pulsatile flow measurements was thus achieved sensitively by means of this interactive system. The systematic experiments on velocity and frictional loss of pulsatile pipe flow could be carried out easily on the test rig in a short time period. The operation principles and advantages of the system are discussed here in sufficient detail.
Intercomparison of National Hydraulic Pressure Standards up to 500 MPa
Authors: Yadav Sanjay , Bandyopadhyay A.K. , Dilawar Nita , Gupta A.C.
Published: April 2013

In order to provide inputs for improving the quality of measurements, achieving objective evidences of the technical competence and to build-up and maintain mutual confidence of national hydraulic pressure standards, an extensive in-house laboratory intercomparison is carried out in a systematic manner. The present paper describes the summary of the results thus obtained in this in-house laboratory intercomparison exercise of eight numbers of national hydraulic pressure standards, designated as NPL28MPA, NPL100MPN, NPL100MPA, NPL140MPA, NPL200MPN, NPL280MPA, NPL500MPN, NPL500MPA. The intercomparison of these pressure standards is carried out using an internationally accepted method of cross-floating of pressure balances. The uncertainty in area and pressure measurements is computed as per ISO, WECC and EAL guidelines. The compatibility, uniformity and affirmation of results is re-established by comparing the values of zero pressure effective area ( A0) and distortion coefficient (Λ) with the values obtained during bilateral and international key comparisons sponsored by BIPM, CCM, APLAC, LNE (France) and NIST (USA). The metrological characteristics thus obtained establish a very good agreement within the limits of uncertainty budgets of bilateral and international key comparisons.
Using System Dynamics Modelling to Understand and Address the Systemic Issues on Complex Engineering Projects
Authors: Stupples David W
Published: April 2013

As our world becomes ever more complex, engineering solutions to meet our needs become more difficult to realise. These solutions are born through projects that, because of this complexity, have been increasingly difficult to deliver on time and to budget. There is not a week goes by without reports of yet another project disaster, or another embarrassment for government! What is going wrong?

Our ability to design and construct complex engineering solutions is improving, mainly through the formal application of systems engineering, but there is another entity in play that is not benefiting from the same degree of attention — the delivery mechanism or, as it is more commonly termed the “project”. This project can be as complex as the engineering solution, with behaviour that is extremely dynamic in nature. The application of system dynamics modelling is currently the only way by which this behaviour can be understood and ultimately controlled. System dynamics may therefore be the missing ingredient for successful projects.
People and Vehicle Tracking — Big Brother Looking after You
Authors: Ferryman James
Published: April 2013

This article explores the application of computational (or machine) vision to people and vehicle tracking. A major aim of the research is behaviour understanding and prediction. A survey of requirements, problems and some recent research in the area is given and future directions discussed.
Control Strategies for a Multiple Degree of Freedom Prosthetic Hand
Authors: Cotton D.P.J. , Cranny A. , Chappell P.H. , White N.M. , Beeby S.P.
Published: April 2013

Some of the traditional methods used to control a conventional prosthetic device are described alongside the current state of new control techniques and how they may progress. The review includes implantable myoelectric sensors and describes the potential of connecting directly to the peripheral nervous system. Control methods are then deduced for each technique, where the application is a six degrees of freedom hand having integral slip, force and temperature sensors.
Industrial Symbiosis in the Kwinana Industrial Area (Western Australia)
Authors: Harris Steve
Published: April 2013

The Kwinana Industrial Area of Western Australia has emerged as a world leading example of industrial symbiosis. This involves businesses in close proximity exchanging by-product material, water and energy. Utilisation of a previously discarded resource as an alternative input to another company can help improve both business and sustainability performance of the participating companies. For example, the exchange can reduce disposal costs and provide a cheaper input for the receiving company. The environmental benefits can include reduced collective resource consumption and waste generation, whilst the social benefits may include new employment opportunities and reduction of emission (e.g. water or traffic) to the local community.

This article presents the integrated research programme undertaken at the Centre of Excellence in Cleaner Production, Curtin University of Technology which seeks to enhance the uptake of industrial symbiosis in Australian heavy industrial areas. The case of Kwinana is discussed with illustrative case studies of industrial symbiosis exchanges. International interest in the creation of industrial symbiosis continues to grow and the article concludes with a discussion on the emerging role of measurement and control technolo
Humidity Effects in Solids Drying Processes
Authors: Kemp Ian C
Published: April 2013

Thermal drying from a wet solid to a dry solid is an essential intermediate step in many solids processing plants. Humidity has a major effect on dryer performance and ability to meet quality specifications, particularly for convective dryers. Humidity calculations using a psychrometric chart give an excellent short-cut method for dryer sizing. Ambient and inlet humidity affects both drying kinetics and equilibrium moisture content, especially at lower drying temperatures, and is also important in storage. Exhaust humidity measurement is also useful for tracking and controlling the progress of drying, especially as direct moisture content measurement is often difficult. However, accurate and reliable measurements are difficult due to the hot, damp and dusty environment. The recent revision of British Standard BS 1339 has helped to clarify definitions and improve calculation methods.