bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genital Infection with Herpes Simplex Virus Types 1 and 2 in Women from Natal, Brazil
Authors: Miranda Cleine Aglacy Nunes , Lima Érika Galvão , Lima Diego Breno Soares de , Cobucci Ricardo Ney Oliveira , Cornetta Maria da Conceição de Mesquita , Fernandes Thales Allyrio Araújo de Medeiros , Azevedo Paulo Roberto Medeiros de , Azevedo Jenner Chrystian Veríssimo de , Araújo Josélio Maria Galvão de , Fernandes José Veríssimo
Published: March 2014

Objective. To evaluate the prevalence of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in pregnant and nonpregnant women, testing the correlation between DNA of the viruses with colposcopic and/or cytological changes, and evaluate association with sociodemographic characteristics and sexual activity. Methods. Included in this study were 106 pregnant and 130 nonpregnant women treated at primary health care units of Natal, Brazil, in the period 2010-2011. The patients were examined by colposcopy, and two cervical specimens were collected: one for cytology examination and another for analysis by PCR for detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Results. HSV-1 alone was detected in 16.0% of pregnant and 30.0% of nonpregnant women. For HSV-2, these rates were 12.3% and 15.5%, respectively. HSV-2 had a higher correlation with cytology and/or colposcopy changes than HSV-1 did. Genital HSV-1 infection was not associated with any of the variables tested, whereas HSV-2 infection was associated with ethnicity, marital status, and number of sexual partners. Conclusions. The prevalence of HSV-1 was higher than that observed for HSV-2 in both pregnant and nonpregnant women. The genital infection by HSV-2 was higher in women with changed colposcopy and/or cytology, and it was associated with ethnicity, marital status, and number of sexual partners.
Fasting Leptin Is a Metabolic Determinant of Food Reward in Overweight and Obese Individuals during Chronic Aerobic Exercise Training
Authors: Hopkins Mark , Gibbons Catherine , Caudwell Phillipa , Webb Dominic-Luc , Hellström Per M. , Näslund Erik , Blundell John E. , Finlayson Graham
Published: March 2014

Changes in food reward have been implicated in exercise-induced compensatory eating behaviour. However, the underlying mechanisms of food reward, and the physiological correlates of exercise-induced changes in food reward, are unknown.Methods.Forty-six overweight and obese individuals completed 12 weeks of aerobic exercise. Body composition, food intake, and fasting metabolic-related hormones were measured at baseline, week six, and postintervention. On separate days, the reward value of high-and-low-fat food (explicit liking and implicit wanting) was also assessed at baseline, week six, and postintervention.Results.Following the intervention, FM, FFM, andVO2peakimproved significantly, while fasting leptin decreased. However, food intake or reward did not change significantly. Cross-sectional analyses indicated that FM (P=0.022) and FFM (P=0.046) were associated with explicit liking for high-fat food, but implicit wanting was associated with FM only (P=0.005). Fasting leptin was associated with liking (P=0.023) and wanting (P=0.021) for high-fat food. Furthermore, a greater exercise-induced decline in fasting leptin was associated with increased liking (P=0.018).Conclusion.These data indicate that food reward has a number of physiological correlates. In particular, fasting leptin appears to play an active role in mediating food reward during exercise-induced weight loss.
HPV Vaccination in India: Critical Appraisal
Authors: Nigam Aruna , Saxena Pikee , Acharya Anita S. , Mishra Archana , Batra Swaraj
Published: March 2014

Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women worldwide. The role of human papilloma virus (HPV) in the genesis of cervical carcinoma is well documented. The HPV 16 and 18 are found to be most commonly associated with invasive cervical carcinoma. The advent of cervical carcinoma vaccine has advanced the hopes that eradication of cervical carcinoma might be possible in future. The scenario of prevention of cervical carcinoma is completely different in developed and developing countries. The implementation of the vaccination as a routine in India is still controversial. Here we have tried to critically analyse these issues in Indian context. However it is clear that cervical cancer vaccine is not an immediate panacea and cannot replace the cervical cancer screening which is mandatory in Indian context.
Alcohol Use among Chinese Men Who Have Sex with Men: An Epidemiological Survey and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Yu , Qian Han-Zhu , Ruan Yuhua , Yin Lu , Ma Juntao , Dahiya Kapil , Fan Wensheng , Shao Yiming , Vermund Sten H.
Published: March 2014

The HIV/AIDS epidemic among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) has become a significant public health concern. Knowledge of alcohol consumption in this population is limited. In this study, 1,155 Chinese MSM were surveyed to assess alcohol use and its correlates. A meta-analysis was also performed to aggregate pooled prevalence of current alcohol use. MSM who were unmarried (aOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.29–2.71) or unemployed/retired (aOR: 2.77; 95% CI: 1.73–4.45) were more likely to drink alcohol more than once per week. MSM who consumed alcohol more than once per week were more likely to use drug(P<0.01), have sex with women(P<0.01), have unprotected insertive(P=0.04)or receptive(P=0.03)anal sex with men, have more than 10 lifetime male sex partners(P<0.01), predominantly practice insertive anal sex(P<0.01), and trade sex for money(P<0.01). Pooled overall alcohol use prevalence was 32%. Pooled prevalence for MSM who drank alcohol more than once per week and who drank alcohol before sex with male partners was 23%. Our findings provide the basis for further exploring the alcohol-HIV association and developing risk reduction interventions.
Gardenia jasminoides Extract Attenuates the UVB‐Induced Expressions of Cytokines in Keratinocytes and Indirectly Inhibits Matrix Metalloproteinase‐1 Expression in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Park Jiaa , Seok Jin Kyung , Suh Hwa-Jin , Boo Yong Chool
Published: March 2014

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is a major cause of photoaging, which also involves inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). The present study was undertaken to examine the UVB‐protecting effects of yellow‐colored plant extracts in cell‐based assays. HaCaT keratinocytes were exposed to UVB in the absence or presence of plant extracts, and resulting changes in cell viability and inflammatory cytokine expression were measured. Of the plant extracts tested, Gardenia jasminoides extract showed the lowest cytotoxicity and dose‐dependently enhanced the viabilities of UVB‐exposed cells. Gardenia jasminoides extract also attenuated the mRNA expressions of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in HaCaT cells stimulated by UVB. Conditioned medium from UVB‐exposed HaCaT cells was observed to stimulate MMP‐1 protein expression in human dermal fibroblasts, and this effect was much smaller for the conditioned medium of HaCaT cells exposed to UVB in the presence of Gardenia jasminoides extract. Gardenia jasminoides extract also exhibited antioxidative and antiapoptotic effects in HaCaT cells exposed to UVB. These results indicated that UVB‐induced injury and inflammatory responses of skin cells can be attenuated by yellow‐colored plant extracts, such as Gardenia jasminoides extract.
Development of Localized Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema in a Late Preterm Infant without Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Bawa Pritish , Soontarapornchai Kultida , Perenyi Agnes , Goldfisher Rachelle , Amodio John
Published: March 2014

Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) is not an uncommon finding in premature infants with respiratory distress who need respiratory support by mechanical ventilation. PIE has been reported in a few cases of neonates in whom either no treatment other than room air was given or they were given continuous positive end-expiratory pressure (CPAP) support. We present a case of a premature neonate who presented with respiratory distress, in whom PIE and spontaneous pneumothorax (PTX) developed while on CPAP therapy only. The patient was treated conservatively with subsequent resolution of the radiological findings and clinical improvement. No surgical intervention was required. It is important to know that PIE may develop independently of mechanical ventilation. We would like to add this case to the literature and describe the pertinent plain film and computed tomography (CT) findings of this entity, the possible mechanism of development, and the differential diagnosis. A review of the literature is also provided.
Generalized Mutual Synchronization between Two Controlled Interdependent Networks
Authors: Xu Quan , Zhuang Shengxian , Hu Dan , Zeng Yingfeng , Xiao Jian
Published: March 2014

This paper mainly focuses on the generalized mutual synchronization between two controlled interdependent networks. First, we propose the general model of controlled interdependent networksAandBwith time-varying internetwork delays coupling. Then, by constructing Lyapunov functions and utilizing adaptive control technique, some sufficient conditions are established to ensure that the mutual synchronization errors between the state variables of networksAandBcan asymptotically converge to zero. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results and to explore potential application in future smart grid. The simulation results also show how interdependent topologies and internetwork coupling delays influence the mutual synchronizability, which help to design interdependent networks with optimal mutual synchronizability.
Implications of Post-LLETZ “Treatment Failure” for Further Management of HIV-Infected Women
Authors: van Bogaert Louis-Jacques
Published: March 2014

Background. Since the preconisation presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the main determinant of the risk of progression of preinvasive lesions; the state of the excision margins could be of less importance. Relatively little is known about the effect of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on the relation between the states of the excision margins. Methods. We compared 120 HIV-infected and 139 HIV-uninfected women who underwent a hysterectomy after large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) for abnormal Pap smear. Results. The excision margins had been reported negative in 21.7% of infected and 7.8% of uninfected cases (P=0.03). Three (11.5%) of 26 negative margins in HIV-infected and 2 (18.2) out of HIV-uninfected cases were falsely negative as evidenced on hysterectomy specimens (P=0.73). The persistence rate of the initial lesion was similar in both groups (P=0.20). The persistence rate with highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) was similar to untreated patients (P=0.20). The progression rate from low-grade to high-grade preinvasive lesions was higher in HIV-infected than HIV-uninfected women (P=0.027). Conclusion. HIV-infected women with incomplete excision margins after LLETZ are at higher risk of progression of residual preneoplastic lesions.
Acupuncture Relieves the Excessive Excitation of Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Cortex Axis Function and Correlates with the Regulatory Mechanism of GR, CRH, and ACTHR
Authors: Wang Shao-Jun , Zhang Jiao-Jiao , Qie Li-Li
Published: March 2014

It had been indicated in the previous studies that acupuncture relieved the excessive excitation of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal cortex axis (HPAA) function induced by stress stimulation. But the changes in glucocorticoid receptor (GR) induced by acupuncture have not been detected clearly. The objective of the study was to observe the impacts of acupuncture on the protein expressions of corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone receptor (ACTHR), and GR under the physiological and stress states. The results showed that under the stress state, acupuncture upregulated the protein expression of GR in the hippocampus, hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), and pituitary gland, downregulated the protein expression of GR in the adrenal cortex, and obviously reduced the protein expressions of CRH and ACTHR. Under the physiological state, acupuncture promoted GR protein expression in the hippocampus and CRH protein expression in the hippocampus and PVN. The results explained that acupuncture regulated the stress reaction via promoting the combination of glucocorticoids (GC) with GR, and GR protein expression. The increase of GR protein expression induced feedback inhibition on the overexpression of CRH and ACTHR, likely decreased GC level, and caused the reduction of GR protein expression in the adrenal cortex.
Unconventional Bearing Capacity Analysis and Optimization of Multicell Box Girders
Authors: Tepic Jovan , Doroslovacki Rade , Djelosevic Mirko
Published: March 2014

This study deals with unconventional bearing capacity analysis and the procedure of optimizing a two-cell box girder. The generalized model which enables the local stress-strain analysis of multicell girders was developed based on the principle of cross-sectional decomposition. The applied methodology is verified using the experimental data (Djelosevic et al., 2012) for traditionally formed box girders. The qualitative and quantitative evaluation of results obtained for the two-cell box girder is realized based on comparative analysis using the finite element method (FEM) and the ANSYS v12 software. The deflection function obtained by analytical and numerical methods was found consistent provided that the maximum deviation does not exceed 4%. Multicell box girders are rationally designed support structures characterized by much lower susceptibility of their cross-sectional elements to buckling and higher specific capacity than traditionally formed box girders. The developed local stress model is applied for optimizing the cross section of a two-cell box carrier. The author points to the advantages of implementing the model of local stresses in the optimization process and concludes that the technological reserve of bearing capacity amounts to 20% at the same girder weight and constant load conditions.
Influence of Ultrafine Natural Steatite Powder on Setting Time and Strength Development of Cement
Authors: Sudalaimani K. , Shanmugasundaram M.
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with the setting time and pozzolanic activity of cement when ultra fine natural steatite powder (UFNSP) is used as replacement for cement. Initial setting time, final setting time, and mortar cube strength were studied, due to the replacement of ultra fine natural steatite powder with cement at 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% by mass of cement. The setting time of fresh cement-binder paste and compressive strength of mortar cubes are observed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were applied to investigate the microstructural behaviour and chemical element distribution inside cement-binder matrix. Results indicate that the length of dormant period is shortened. The replacement of ultra fine natural steatite powder with cement reduces initial setting time, and final setting time and increases mortar cube compressive strength.
An Osgood Type Regularity Criterion for the 3D Boussinesq Equations
Authors: Wu Qiang , Hu Lin , Liu Guili
Published: March 2014

We consider the three-dimensional Boussinesq equations, and obtain an Osgood type regularity criterion in terms of the velocity gradient.
Symbol Error Rate for Nonblind Adaptive Equalizers Applicable for the SIMO and FGn Case
Authors: Pinchas Monika
Published: March 2014

A nonzero residual intersymbol interference (ISI) causes the symbol error rate (SER) to increase
where the achievable SER may not answer any more on the system’s requirements. Recently, a closed‐form
approximated expression was derived by the same author for the residual ISI obtained by nonblind
adaptive equalizers for the single‐input single‐output (SISO) case. Up to now, there does not exist a
closed‐form expression for the residual ISI obtained by nonblind adaptive equalizers for the single‐input multiple‐output (SIMO) case. Furthermore, there does not exist a closed‐form expression for the SER valid for the SISO or SIMO case that takes into account the residual ISI obtained by nonblind
adaptive equalizers and is valid for fractional Gaussian noise (fGn) input where the Hurst exponent is
in the region of 0.5 ≤ H < 1. In this paper, we derive a closed‐form approximated expression for the
residual ISI obtained by nonblind adaptive equalizers for the SIMO case (where SISO is a special case
of SIMO), valid for fGn input where the Hurst exponent is in the region of 0.5 ≤ H < 1. Based on
this new expression for the residual ISI, a closed‐form approximated expression is obtained for the SER
valid for the SIMO and fGn case.
Bisphenol A Altersβ-hCG and MIF Release by Human Placenta: AnIn VitroStudy to Understand the Role of Endometrial Cells
Authors: Mannelli C. , Ietta F. , Carotenuto C. , Romagnoli R. , Szostek A. Z. , Wasniewski T. , Skarzynski D. J. , Paulesu Luana
Published: March 2014

A proper fetomaternal immune-endocrine cross-talk in pregnancy is fundamental for reproductive success. This might be unbalanced by exposure to environmental chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA). As fetoplacental contamination with BPA originates from the maternal compartment, this study investigated the role of the endometrium in BPA effects on the placenta. To this end,in vitrodecidualized stromal cells were exposed to BPA 1 nM, and their conditioned medium (diluted 1 : 2) was used on chorionic villous explants from human placenta. Parallel cultures of placental explants were directly exposed to 0.5 nM BPA while, control cultures were exposed to the vehicle (EtOH 0.1%). After 24–48 h, culture medium from BPA-treated and control cultures was assayed for concentration of hormone human Chorionic Gonadotropin (β-hCG) and cytokine Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF). The results showed that direct exposure to BPA stimulated the release of both MIF andβ-hCG. These effects were abolished/diminished in placental cultures exposed to endometrial cell-conditioned medium. GM-MS analysis revealed that endometrial cells retain BPA, thus reducing the availability of this chemical for the placenta. The data obtained highlight the importance ofin vitromodels including the maternal component in reproducing the effects of environmental chemicals on human fetus/placenta.
Bra.Di.P.O. and P.I.G.R.O.: Innovative Devices for Motor Learning Programs
Authors: Belforte Guido , Eula Gabriella , Sirolli Silvia , Bois Paolo , Geda Elisabetta , D'Agata Federico , Cauda Franco , Duca Sergio , Zettin Marina , Virgilio Roberta , Geminiani Giuliano , Sacco Katiuscia
Published: March 2014

Two mechatronics prototypes, useful for robotic neurotreatments and new clinical trainings, are here presented. P.I.G.R.O. (pneumatic interactive gait rehabilitation orthosis) is an active exoskeleton with an electropneumatic control. It imposes movements on lower limbs in order to produce in the patient’s brain proper motor cortex activation. Bra.Di.P.O. (brain discovery pneumatic orthosis) is an MR-compatible device, designed to improve fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) analysis. The two devices are presented together because both are involved in the study of new robotic treatments of patients affected by ictus or brain stroke or in some motor learning experimental investigations carried out on healthy subjects.
Thermomechanical and Photophysical Properties of Crystal-Violet-Dye/H2O Based Dissolutions via the Pulsed Laser Photoacoustic Technique
Authors: Torres-Zúñiga Vicente , Castañeda-Guzmán Rosalba , Pérez-Ruiz Santiago J. , Morales-Saavedra Omar G.
Published: March 2014

Different thermoelastic parameters, for example, the acoustic attenuation and the speed of sound, are fundamental for instrumental calibration and quantitative characterization of organic-based dissolutions. In this work, these parameters as functions of the concentration of an organic dye (crystal-violet: CV) in distillated water (H2O) based dissolutions are investigated. The speed of sound was measured by the pulsed-laser photoacoustic technique (PLPA), which consists in the generation of acoustic-waves by the optical absorption of pulsed light in a given material (in this case a liquid sample). The thermally generated sound-waves traveling through a fluid are detected with two piezoelectric sensors separated by a known distance. An appropriate processing of the photoacoustic signals allows an adequate data analysis of the generated waves within the system, providing an accurate determination of the speed of sound as function of the dye-concentration. The acoustic attenuation was calculated based on the distance of the two PZT-microphones to an acoustic-source point and performing linear-fitting of the experimental data (RMS-amplitudes) as function of the dye-concentration. An important advantage of the PLPA-method is that it can be implemented with poor or null optical transmitting materials permitting the characterization of the mechanical and concentration/aggregate properties of dissolved organic compounds.
New Insight for the Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease
Authors: Malard Florent , Mohty Mohamad
Published: March 2014

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is a curative therapy for different life-threatening malignant and nonmalignant hematologic disorders. Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major source of morbidity and mortality following allo-SCT, which limits the use of this treatment in a broader spectrum of patients. Early diagnostic of GVHD is essential to initiate treatment as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of GVHD may be difficult to establish, because of the nonspecific nature of the associated symptoms and of the numerous differential diagnosis. This is particularly true regarding gastrointestinal (GI) acute GVHD. In the recent years many progress has been made in medical imaging test and endoscopic techniques. The interest of these different techniques in the diagnosis of GI acute GVHD has been evaluated in several studies. With this background we review the contributions, limitations, and future prospect of these techniques in the diagnosis of GI acute GVHD.
Clinical Outcomes for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Mastectomy and Reconstruction with Use of DermACELL, a Sterile, Room Temperature Acellular Dermal Matrix
Authors: Vashi Christopher
Published: March 2014

Background. Decellularized human skin has been used in a variety of medical applications, primarily involving soft tissue reconstruction, wound healing, and tendon augmentation. Theoretically, decellularization removes potentially immunogenic material and provides a clean scaffold for cellular and vascular in growth. The use of acellular dermal matrix in two-stage postmastectomy breast reconstruction is described.Methods. Ten consecutive breast cancer patients were treated with mastectomies and immediate reconstruction from August to November 2011. There were 8 bilateral and 1 unilateral mastectomies for a total of 17 breasts, with one exclusion for chronic tobacco use. Reconstruction included the use of a new 6 × 16 cm sterile, room temperature acellular dermal matrix patch (DermACELL) soaked in a cefazolin bath.Results. Of the 17 breasts, 15 reconstructions were completed; 14 of them with expander to implant sequence and acellular dermal matrix. Histological analysis of biopsies obtained during trimming of the matrix at the second stage appeared nonremarkable with evidence of normal healing, cellularity, and vascular infiltration.Conclusion. Postoperative observations showed that this cellular dermal matrix appears to be an appropriate adjunct to reconstruction with expanders. This acellular dermal matrix appeared to work well with all patients, even those receiving postoperative chemotherapy, postoperative radiation, prednisone, or warfarin sodium.
Comparative Performance of Four Single Extreme Outlier Discordancy Tests from Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Verma Surendra P. , Díaz-González Lorena , Rosales-Rivera Mauricio , Quiroz-Ruiz Alfredo
Published: March 2014

Using highly precise and accurate Monte Carlo simulations of 20,000,000 replications and 102 independent simulation experiments with extremely low simulation errors and total uncertainties, we evaluated the performance of four single outlier discordancy tests (Grubbs test N2, Dixon test N8, skewness test N14, and kurtosis test N15) for normal samples of sizes 5 to 20. Statistical contaminations of a single observation resulting from parameters calledδfrom ±0.1 up to ±20 for modeling the slippage of central tendency orεfrom ±1.1 up to ±200 for slippage of dispersion, as well as no contamination (δ=0andε=±1), were simulated. Because of the use of precise and accurate random and normally distributed simulated data, very large replications, and a large number of independent experiments, this paper presents a novel approach for precise and accurate estimations of power functions of four popular discordancy tests and, therefore, should not be considered as a simple simulation exercise unrelated to probability and statistics. From both criteria of the Power of Test proposed by Hayes and Kinsella and the Test Performance Criterion of Barnett and Lewis, Dixon test N8 performs less well than the other three tests. The overall performance of these four tests could be summarized asN2≅N15>N14>N8.
Propolis Modulates Fibronectin Expression in the Matrix of Thermal Injury
Authors: Olczyk Pawel , Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna , Wisowski Grzegorz , Mencner Lukasz , Stojko Jerzy , Kozma Ewa M.
Published: March 2014

The aim of the study was to assess the propolis effect on fibronectin metabolism in the course of burn wounds healing process. A model of burn wound healing of pig skin was applied. The amount of the released glycoprotein was assessed by a surface plasmon resonance. The profile of extracted fibronectin components was also assessed by an electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel, with a subsequent immunodetection by Western Blotting. Propolis burn treatment decreased the release of fibronectin components from healing wounds in relation to damages treated with silver sulfadiazine. The main reason of decreased extraction of fibronectin components from wounds treated with propolis was a substantial decrease of degradation product release of the mentioned glycoprotein, which was observed particularly from the 3rd to 5th day of the repair. Wounds treatment with propolis demonstrated, especially in relation to damages treated with silver sulfadiazine, the decreased release of synthesized fibronectin molecules. The obtained results suggest that propolis modifies fibronectin metabolism in the course of wound healing process. The influence of propolis is reflected in prevention of fibronectin biosynthesis as well as its degradation in the wound area. The above-mentioned metabolic changes may decrease the risk of complications in the repair wounds process.
Evaluation of Usefulness of hs-CRP and Ferritin Assays in Patients with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Partyka Robert , Pałac Jacek , Paluch Zbigniew , Szyguła-Jurkiewicz Bożena , Namysłowski Grzegorz , Misiołek Maciej , Jałowiecki Przemysław , Kokocińska Danuta
Published: March 2014

Background.Chronic nature of the nasal polyps, tendency to recurrence, and lack of satisfying treatment need the diagnostic’s parameters which show early inflammatory state as ferritin and hs-CRP.The Aim of Study.Assessment of hs-CRP and ferritin blood levels in nasal polyps patients in evaluation of treatment efficacy.Methods.All 38 patients were divided into 2 groups. Group I included 19 patients with anti-inflammatory therapy 2 weeks after surgery. Group II included 19 patients without anti-inflammatory therapy 2 weeks after surgery. The levels of hs-CRP and ferritin have been assessed before and 2 and 6 weeks after surgical treatment.Results.Research showed statistically significant difference of ferritin’s concentration between examined groups 6 weeks after surgery (P<0.05) and statistically significant difference of hs-CRP concentration 2 and 6 weeks after surgery (P<0.05).Conclusion.(1) The analysis of serum ferritin and hs-CRP concentrations can be useful in early postoperative detection of inflammatory state in patients with nasal polyps and for the effectiveness of therapy. (2) Lack of correlation between mean ferritin and hs-CRP serum levels, at each diagnostic and monitoring stage, shows that they are independent and cannot be determined interchangeably.
Effects of Polaron and Quantum Confinement on the Nonlinear Optical Properties in a GaAs/Ga1−xAlxAs Quantum Well Wire
Authors: Caroline Sugirtham L. , John Peter A. , Lee Chang Woo
Published: March 2014

The binding energy of a polaron confined in a GaAs/Ga1−xAlxAs quantum well wire is calculated within the framework of the variational technique and Lee‐Low Pines approach. The polaron‐induced photoionization cross section as a function of normalized photon energy for a on‐centre donor impurity in the quantum wire is investigated. The oscillator strength with the geometrical effect is studied taking into account the polaron effects in a GaAs/Ga0.8Al0.2As quantum well wire. The effect of polaron on the third‐order susceptibility of third harmonic generation is studied. Our theoretical results are shown to be in good agreement with previous investigations.
Role of Plasma Membrane Caveolae/Lipid Rafts in VEGF-Induced Redox Signaling in Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Caliceti Cristiana , Zambonin Laura , Rizzo Benedetta , Fiorentini Diana , Vieceli Dalla Sega Francesco , Hrelia Silvana , Prata Cecilia
Published: March 2014

Caveolae/lipid rafts are membrane-rich cholesterol domains endowed with several functions in signal transduction and caveolin-1 (Cav-1) has been reported to be implicated in regulating multiple cancer-associated processes, ranging from tumor growth to multidrug resistance and angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) and Cav-1 are frequently colocalized, suggesting an important role played by this interaction on cancer cell survival and proliferation. Thus, our attention was directed to a leukemia cell line (B1647) that constitutively produces VEGF and expresses the tyrosine-kinase receptor VEGFR-2. We investigated the presence of VEGFR-2 in caveolae/lipid rafts, focusing on the correlation between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and glucose transport modulation induced by VEGF, peculiar features of tumor proliferation. In order to better understand the involvement of VEGF/VEGFR-2 in the redox signal transduction, we evaluated the effect of different compounds able to inhibit VEGF interaction with its receptor by different mechanisms, corroborating the obtained results by immunoprecipitation and fluorescence techniques. Results here reported showed that, in B1647 leukemia cells, VEGFR-2 is present in caveolae through association with Cav-1, demonstrating that caveolae/lipid rafts act as platforms for negative modulation of VEGF redox signal transduction cascades leading to glucose uptake and cell proliferation, suggesting therefore novel potential targets.
Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome Presented as Severe Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Pesic Danilo , Peljto Amir , Lukic Biljana , Milovanovic Maja , Svetozarevic Snezana , Lecic Tosevski Dusica
Published: March 2014

An increasing number of findings confirm the significance of cerebellum in affecting regulation and early learning. Most consistent findings refer to association of congenital vermis anomalies with deficits in nonmotor functions of cerebellum. In this paper we presented a young woman who was treated since sixteen years of age for polysubstance abuse, affective instability, and self-harming who was later diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Since the neurological and neuropsychological reports pointed to signs of cerebellar dysfunction and dysexecutive syndrome, we performed magnetic resonance imaging of brain which demonstrated partially developed vermis and rhombencephalosynapsis. These findings match the description of cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome and show an overlap with clinical manifestations of borderline personality disorder.
MWAHCA: A Multimedia Wireless Ad Hoc Cluster Architecture
Authors: Diaz Juan R. , Lloret Jaime , Jimenez Jose M. , Sendra Sandra
Published: March 2014

Wireless Ad hoc networks provide a flexible and adaptable infrastructure to transport data over a great variety of environments. Recently, real-time audio and video data transmission has been increased due to the appearance of many multimedia applications. One of the major challenges is to ensure the quality of multimedia streams when they have passed through a wireless ad hoc network. It requires adapting the network architecture to the multimedia QoS requirements. In this paper we propose a new architecture to organize and manage cluster-based ad hoc networks in order to provide multimedia streams. Proposed architecture adapts the network wireless topology in order to improve the quality of audio and video transmissions. In order to achieve this goal, the architecture uses some information such as each node’s capacity and the QoS parameters (bandwidth, delay, jitter, and packet loss). The architecture splits the network into clusters which are specialized in specific multimedia traffic. The real system performance study provided at the end of the paper will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposal.
Mercury Speciation in Hair of Children in Three Communities of the Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Marinho Jamile Salim , Lima Marcelo Oliveira , Santos Elisabeth Conceição de Oliveira , de Jesus Iracina Maura , Pinheiro Maria da Conceição N. , Alves Cláudio Nahum , Muller Regina Celi Sarkis
Published: March 2014

Children from riverside communities located downstream of gold mining areas may be chronically exposed to relatively high levels of MeHg through the consumption of fish of this region. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare levels of THg and MeHg in hair of children less than 12 years in communities near mines in the municipality of Itaituba and in communities far from prospecting areas in the city of Abaetetuba. The communities of Itaituba (Barreiras and São Luiz do Tapajós) had THg mean levels of5.64±5.55 μg·g−1(0.43–27.82) and11.41±7.16 μg.g−1(1.08–28.17), respectively, and an average count of MeHg relative to THg of 92.20% and 90.27%, respectively. In the Maranhão community, the THg average concentrations results were2.27±2.11 μg·g−1(0.13–9.54) and the average values were 93.17% for MeHg. Children of Itaituba had average levels of mercury above the limit established by the World Health Organization (10 μg·g−1) and the strong correlation coefficient between the communities (R=0.968andP=0.0001) suggests the hair as an excellent biomarker of human exposure to organic mercury in riverside populations of the Tapajós, which has the intake of fish daily as main source of protein dietary.
Detection of Impaired Cognitive Function in Rat with Hepatosteatosis Model and Improving Effect of GLP-1 Analogs (Exenatide) on Cognitive Function in Hepatosteatosis
Authors: Erbaş Oytun , Sarac Fulden , Aktuğ Hüseyin , Peker Gönül
Published: March 2014

The aims of the study were to evaluate (1) detection of cognitive function changing in rat with hepatosteatosis model and (2) evaluate the effect of GLP-1 analog (exenatide) on cognitive function in hepatosteatosis. In the study group, 30% fructose was given in nutrition water to perform hepatosteatosis for 8 weeks to 18 male rats. Six male rats were chosen as control group and had normal nutrition. Fructose nutrition group were stratified into 3 groups. In first group (n=6), intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of exenatide (n=6) was given. ICV infusion of NaCl (n=6) was given to second group. And also, the third group had no treatment. And also, rats were evaluated for passive avoidance learning (PAL) and liver histopathology. Mean levels of latency time were statistically significantly decreased in rats with hepatosteatosis than those of normal rats (P<0.00001). However, mean level of latency time in rats with hepatosteatosis treated with ICV exenatide was statistically significantly increased than that of rats treated with ICV NaCl (P<0.001). Memory performance falls off in rats with hepatosteatosis feeding on fructose (decreased latency time). However, GLP-1 ameliorates cognitive functions (increased latency time) in rats with hepatosteatosis and releated metabolic syndrome.
Reviewing the Tannic Acid Mediated Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Ahmad Tufail
Published: March 2014

Metal nanoparticles harbour numerous exceptional physiochemical properties absolutely different from those of bulk metal as a function of their extremely small size and large superficial area to volume. Naked metal nanoparticles are synthesized by various physical and chemical methods. Chemical methods involving metal salt reduction in solution enjoy an extra edge over other protocols owing to their relative facileness and capability of controlling particle size along with the attribute of surface tailoring. Although chemical methods are the easiest, they are marred by the use of hazardous chemicals such as borohydrides. This has led to inclination of scientific community towards eco-friendly agents for the reduction of metal salts to form nanoparticles. Tannic acid, a plant derived polyphenolic compound, is one such agent which embodies characteristics of being harmless and environmentally friendly combined with being a good reducing and stabilizing agent. In this review, first various methods used to prepare metal nanoparticles are highlighted and further tannic acid mediated synthesis of metal nanoparticles is emphasized. This review brings forth the most recent findings on this issue.
Rapamycin Rescues ABT-737 Efficacy in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gardner Eric E. , Connis Nick , Poirier John T. , Cope Leslie , Dobromilskaya Irina , Gallia Gary L. , Rudin Charles M. , Hann Christine L.
Published: March 2014

Overexpression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 is observed in the majority of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cases and is associated with resistance to chemotherapy. While targeting Bcl-2 in hematologic malignancies continues to show signs of promise, translating the BH3 mimetic ABT-737 (or ABT-263; navitoclax) to the clinic for solid tumors has remained problematic, with limited single-agent activity in early-phase clinical trials. Here, we used patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of SCLC to study ABT-737 resistance and demonstrated that responses to ABT-737 are short lived and coincide with decreases in HIF-1α–regulated transcripts. Combining the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin with ABT-737 rescued this resistance mechanism, was highly synergistic in vitro, and provided durable tumor regressions in vivo without notable hematologic suppression. In comparison, tumor regressions did not occur when ABT-737 was combined with etoposide, a gold-standard cytotoxic for SCLC therapy. Rapamycin exposure was consistently associated with an increase in the proapoptotic protein BAX, whereas ABT-737 caused dose-dependent decreases in BAX. As ABT-737 triggers programmed cell death in a BAX/BAK-dependent manner, we provide preclinical evidence that the efficacy of ABT-737 as a single agent is self-limiting in SCLC, but the addition of rapamycin can maintain or increase levels of BAX protein and markedly enhance the anticancer efficacy of ABT-737. These data have direct translational implications for SCLC clinical trials. Cancer Res; 74(10); 2846–56. ©2014 AACR.
Immune-Escape Markers in Relation to Clinical Outcome of Advanced Melanoma Patients Following Immunotherapy
Authors: Tjin Esther P.M. , Krebbers Gabrielle , Meijlink Kimberley J. , van de Kasteele Willeke , Rosenberg Efraim H. , Sanders Joyce , Nederlof Petra M. , van de Wiel Bart A. , Haanen John B.A.G. , Melief Cornelis J.M. , Vyth-Dreese Florry A. , Luiten Rosalie M.
Published: March 2014

In this study, we investigated a large series of immune (escape) markers, relevant to T-cell function, as potential biomarkers for clinical outcome following immunotherapy. We retrospectively studied the expression of immune (escape) markers in metastatic melanoma tissues of 27 patients before autologous tumor cell vaccination, and 16 patients who were intended to treat but were not vaccinated because of rapid disease progression. Immunohistochemical data of infiltrating (suppressive) cells, such as T cells, regulatory T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and mast cells, or the expression of T-cell inhibitory factors (PD-1/PD-L1, IDO, and galectins), cytotoxic molecules (granzyme-B), melanocyte differentiation antigens, HLA class-I and tolerogenic cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β] were correlated statistically to clinical outcome and overall survival (OS). Significantly more tumor-infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells (both P < 0.05) were found in nonprogressors to vaccination (n = 9; median OS, 56 months), compared with progressors (n = 18; median OS, 9.5 months). Moreover, granzyme-B expression was elevated in the tumors of nonprogressors, suggesting activated cytotoxic T cells or natural killer cells. T-cell infiltration and granzyme-B expression significantly correlated with overall OS. T-cell inhibitory factors and suppressive cells did not correlate with OS, suggesting minor influence of these immune-escape markers on clinical outcome. The data of progressors were comparable with those from patients with rapid progression (not vaccinated; n = 16; median OS, 3 months). Our study shows that high numbers of intratumoral activated CD4+ or CD8+ T cells, before autologous tumor cell vaccination, are associated with favorable clinical outcome. Analyses of these markers in the patients' tumor tissues before immunotherapy may therefore be a valuable tool to select patients for whom the treatment may result in potential clinical benefit. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(6); 538–46. ©2014 AACR.
MicroRNAs in the Hypothalamus
Authors: Meister Björn , Herzer Silke , Silahtaroglu Asli
Published: March 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short (∼22 nucleotides) non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules that negatively regulate the expression of protein-coding genes. Posttranscriptional silencing of target genes by miRNA is initiated by binding to the 3′-untranslated regions of target mRNAs, resulting in specific cleavage and subsequent degradation of the mRNA or by translational repression resulting in specific inhibition of protein synthesis. An increasing amount of evidence shows that miRNAs control a large number of biological processes and there exists a direct link between miRNAs and disease. miRNA molecules are abundantly expressed in tissue-specific and regional patterns and have been suggested as potential biomarkers, disease modulators and drug targets. The central nervous system is a prominent site of miRNA expression. Within the brain, several miRNAs are expressed and/or enriched in the region of the hypothalamus and miRNAs have recently been shown to be important regulators of hypothalamic control functions. The aim of this review is to summarize some of the current knowledge regarding the expression and role of miRNAs in the hypothalamus.
Catheterized Uroflowmetry as a Noninvasive Test for Detrusor Acontractility
Authors: Egilmez Tulga , Resit Goren Mehmet
Published: March 2014

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of uroflowmetry performed through an indwelling catheter on the differential diagnosis of detrusor acontractility. Patients and Methods: 50 men aged between 51 and 85 years (mean 66 years) presenting to the outpatient urology department with indwelling catheters due to urinary retention were included in the study. In the supine position, 300 ml of saline was instilled into the bladder and the catheter was blocked; with the patient standing by the flowmeter, the catheter was opened, allowing the patient to void through the catheter. The evaluation continued with a cystometry and pressure-flow study (PFS). The patients were separated into two groups according to the results of the PFS - group 1 with positive detrusor pressure and group 2 with negative detrusor pressure (detrusor acontractility) - and the catheterized uroflow and PFS data were compared. Results: Statistical significance was seen between detrusor acontractility and peak flow rate (Qmax) on catheterized uroflow when Qmax <10 ml/s was taken as a threshold value (p = 0). Conclusion: A quick, noninvasive and inexpensive means of assessing lower urinary tract function would improve the management of men needing PFS. This study reveals that catheterized uroflow is a very easy and useful test if the question is whether the bladder is acontractile or not.
Identification of Novel Transmembrane Proteins in Scirrhous-Type Gastric Cancer by the Escherichia coli Ampicillin Secretion Trap (CAST) Method: TM9SF3 Participates in Tumor Invasion and Serves as a Prognostic Factor
Authors: Oo Htoo Zarni , Sentani Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Naoya , Anami Katsuhiro , Naito Yutaka , Oshima Takashi , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Oue Naohide , Yasui Wataru
Published: March 2014

Objective: Scirrhous-type gastric cancer (GC) is highly aggressive and has a poor prognosis due to rapid cancer cell infiltration accompanied by extensive stromal fibrosis. The aim of this study is to identify genes that encode transmembrane proteins frequently expressed in scirrhous-type GC. Methods: We compared Escherichia coli ampicillin secretion trap (CAST) libraries from 2 human scirrhous-type GC tissues with a normal stomach CAST library. By sequencing 2,880 colonies from scirrhous CAST libraries, we identified a list of candidate genes. Results: We focused on the TM9SF3 gene because it has the highest clone count, and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that 46 (50%) of 91 GC cases were positive for TM9SF3, which was observed frequently in scirrhous-type GC. TM9SF3 expression showed a significant correlation with the depth of invasion, tumor stage and undifferentiated GC. There was a strong correlation between TM9SF3 expression and poor patient outcome, which was validated in two separate cohorts by immunostaining and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively. Transient knockdown of the TM9SF3 gene by siRNA showed decreased tumor cell-invasive capacity. Conclusion: Our results indicate that TM9SF3 might be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for scirrhous-type GC.
FOLFIRI Combined with Bevacizumab as First-Line Treatment for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients with Hyperbilirubinemia after UGT1A1 Genotyping
Authors: Yeh Yung-Sung , Huang Meng-Lin , Chang Se-Fen , Chen Chin-Fan , Hu Huang-Ming , Wang Jaw-Yuan
Published: March 2014

Objective: To report a metastatic colorectal cancer patient with hyperbilirubinemia treated with a combination of bevacizumab and FOLFIRI (5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan) using uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase (UGT1A1) genotyping. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 46-year-old male was diagnosed with rectosigmoid colon cancer with liver metastases and hyperbilirubinemia presenting with severe jaundice. UGT1A1 genotyping was used before therapy to ascertain whether genotype-adjusted dosages of irinotecan plus bevacizumab could alleviate the toxicity. Then, the patient was treated with FOLFIRI. Conclusion: The FOLFIRI regimen was successfully used in this patient without concerns regarding toxicity.