bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON THE ORIGIN OF TIME AND THE UNIVERSE
Authors: JEJJALA VISHNU , KAVIC MICHAEL , MINIC DJORDJE , TZE CHIA-HSIUNG
Published: May 2010

We present a novel solution to the low entropy and arrow of time puzzles of the initial state of the universe. Our approach derives from the physics of a specific generalization of Matrix theory put forth in earlier work as the basis for a quantum theory of gravity. The particular dynamical state space of this theory, the infinite-dimensional analogue of the Fubini–Study metric over a complex nonlinear Grassmannian, has recently been studied by Michor and Mumford. The geodesic distance between any two points on this space is zero. Here we show that this mathematical result translates to a description of a hot, zero entropy state and an arrow of time after the Big Bang. This is modeled as a far from equilibrium, large fluctuation driven, "freezing by heating" metastable ordered phase transition of a nonlinear dissipative dynamical system.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE CHARACTERISTC VARIATIONS OF LOCAL SCALING PROPERTY AND THE PROCESS OF SEISMOGENY: THE REVELATION OF A NEW PHYSICAL MECHANISM OF SEISMICITY
Authors: LI QIANG , XU GUI-MING
Published: May 2010

In order to make certain of the nonlinear characteristics of the process of seismogeny, the characteristics of local scaling property of the interevent time series of the seismic sequences for Longmen mountain earthquake zone and Luquan area in China were studied by using the method of local scaling property wavelet analysis. It is indicated that there are clear characteristic variations of local scaling property prior to main shocks for the original series while there is no characteristic variation for the two randomly shuffled versions of the original series. The conclusions drawn are as follows: (1) there is a relationship between the characteristic variations of the local scaling property and the process of seismogeny; (2) this relationship reveals a mechanism of complex behavior in a nonlinear seismic system; and (3) the characteristic variations of the local scaling property can be taken as indicators of augmented or reduced stability of a seismic system.
DISTINCT FRACTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MONOMER AND MULTIMER PROTEINS
Authors: CRACIUN DANA , ISVORAN ADRIANA , REISZ R. D. , AVRAM N. M.
Published: May 2010

Within this study we have calculated the surface fractal dimension (Ds) and the backbone fractal dimensions associated to the local folding (D1) and to the global folding (D2) for two unbiased sets of 50 proteins each, one for monomer and the other for homo- multimer proteins. The mean surface fractal dimension is Ds= 2.29 ± 0.02 for monomers and Ds= 2.21 ± 0.01 for multimers, the two means being significantly different. The mean backbone fractal dimensions associated to the local folding are D1= 1.34 ± 0.14 for monomers and D1= 1.33 ± 0.11 for multimers and those associated to the global folding are D2= 1.33 ± 0.05 for monomers and D2= 1.29 ± 0.04 for multimers, respectively. There are not significant differences between the mean values of the backbone fractal dimensions corresponding to monomers and multimers. These results suggest that there are different structural characteristics between monomer and multimer proteins only concerning their surface roughness, with multimers being smoother than monomers.
HIGHER BLOCK IFS 1: MEMORY REDUCTION AND DIMENSION COMPUTATIONS
Authors: BEDIENT RICHARD , FRAME MICHAEL , GROSS KEITH , LANSKI JENNIFER , SULLIVAN BRENDAN
Published: May 2010

By applying a result from the theory of subshifts of finite type,1 we generalize the result of Frame and Lanski2 to IFS with multistep memory. Specifically, we show that for an IFS [Formula: see text] with m-step memory, there is an IFS with 1-step memory (though in general with many more transformations than [Formula: see text]) having the same attractor as [Formula: see text].
VIBRATION SPECTRA OF THE m-TREE FRACTAL
Authors: FORD DANIEL J. , STEINHURST BENJAMIN
Published: May 2010

We introduce a family of post-critically finite fractal trees indexed by the number of branches they possess. Then we produce a Laplacian operator on graph approximations to these fractals and use spectral decimation to describe the spectrum of the Laplacian on these trees. Lastly we consider the behavior of the spectrum as the number of branches increases.
PLATE-ROD SYSTEM IN THE MANAGEMENT FOR PROGRESSIVE SCOLIOSIS IN GROWING CHILDREN
Authors: Ye Qibin , Kuang Zhengda , Wang Guanjun
Published: May 2010

Objective: To study the therapeutic mechanism of an innovative instrumentation — Plate-Rod System for Scoliosis (PRSS) and its effectiveness for the surgical management of early onset scoliosis (EOS) and adolescent scoliosis (AIS). Method: A new device — PRSS was developed in our department. Between June 2000 and July 2008, 23 patients with progressive EOS, and from October 1998 to August 2003, a total of 66 AIS patients, who underwent one-stage PRSS procedure without bony fusion and had been followed up for more than two years, were evaluated prospectively. The mean age at the time of surgery was 7.98 years in the EOS group, and was 12.15 years in the AIS group. Experimental studies including X-ray analysis, photo-elastic test and type X collagen were used to test the therapeutic mechanism. Results: The subjects were followed up for more than 2 years. The mean scoliosis improved from 80.7° to 30.5° after surgery with a corrective rate of 62.2%. The length of the growth of the instrumented spine was on average 13.3 mm in EOS group. In AIS group, the mean precentage of correction was 68.86%. There were no severe complications in our studies. When PRSS was in place, compressive stress was found to exert on the convex side, while tensile stress on the concave side of the curvature, which was reflected by the changes in the color band in the photo-elastic test and the changes in the width of the disc spaces, and more type X collagen was expressed on the convex side than the concave side. This suggests that compressive stress leads to increase in earlier cartilage degeneration of end plate on the convex side, which is correlated with the decreased growth of the end plate of this side, resulting in maximum spinal realignment. Conclusion: The PRSS which dispenses with spinal fusion and allows extension along with the children's growth, is able to provide and maintain desirable correction of scoliosis in the later growing years due to its modulating efficiency in normalizing the spinal growth. This new device is an effective instrumentation for correcting scoliosis, especially for EOS.
A MODEL BASED ON FUZZY LINGUISTIC INFORMATION TO EVALUATE THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL LIBRARIES
Authors: CABRERIZO F. J. , LÓPEZ-GIJÓN J. , RUÍZ A. A. , HERRERA-VIEDMA E.
Published: May 2010

The Web is changing the information access processes and it is one of the most important information media. Thus, the developments on the Web are having a great influence over the developments on others information access instruments as digital libraries. As the development of digital libraries is to satisfy user need, user satisfaction is essential for the success of a digital library. The aim of this paper is to present a model based on fuzzy linguistic information to evaluate the quality of digital libraries. The quality evaluation of digital libraries is defined using users' perceptions on the quality of digital services provided through their Websites. We assume a fuzzy linguistic modeling to represent the users' perception and apply automatic tools of fuzzy computing with words based on the LOWA and LWA operators to compute global quality evaluations of digital libraries. Additionally, we show an example of application of this model where three Spanish academic digital libraries are evaluated by fifty users.
Sodium/Calcium Exchangers Selectively Regulate Calcium Signaling in Mouse Taste Receptor Cells
Authors: Szebenyi Steven A. , Laskowski Agnieszka I. , Medler Kathryn F.
Published: May 2010

Taste cells use multiple signaling mechanisms to generate appropriate cellular responses to discrete taste stimuli. Some taste stimuli activate G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that cause calcium release from intracellular stores while other stimuli depolarize taste cells to cause calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). While the signaling mechanisms that initiate calcium signals have been described in taste cells, the calcium clearance mechanisms (CCMs) that contribute to the termination of these signals have not been identified. In this study, we used calcium imaging to define the role of sodium-calcium exchangers (NCXs) in the termination of evoked calcium responses. We found that NCXs regulate the calcium signals that rely on calcium influx at the plasma membrane but do not significantly contribute to the calcium signals that depend on calcium release from internal stores. Our data indicate that this selective regulation of calcium signals by NCXs is due primarily to their location in the cell rather than to the differences in cytosolic calcium loads. This is the first report to define the physiological role for any of the CCMs utilized by taste cells to regulate their evoked calcium responses.
Evidence for the Default Network's Role in Spontaneous Cognition
Authors: Andrews-Hanna Jessica R. , Reidler Jay S. , Huang Christine , Buckner Randy L.
Published: May 2010

A set of brain regions known as the default network increases its activity when focus on the external world is relaxed. During such moments, participants change their focus of external attention and engage in spontaneous cognitive processes including remembering the past and imagining the future. However, the functional contributions of the default network to shifts in external attention versus internal mentation have been difficult to disentangle because the two processes are correlated under typical circumstances. To address this issue, the present study manipulated factors that promote spontaneous cognition separately from those that change the scope of external attention. Results revealed that the default network increased its activity when spontaneous cognition was maximized but not when participants increased their attention to unpredictable foveal or peripheral stimuli. To examine the nature of participants' spontaneous thoughts, a second experiment used self-report questionnaires to quantify spontaneous thoughts during extended fixation epochs. Thoughts about one's personal past and future comprised a major focus of spontaneous cognition with considerable variability. Activity correlations between the medial temporal lobe and distributed cortical regions within the default network predicted a small, but significant, portion of the observed variability. Collectively, these results suggest that during passive states, activity within the default network reflects spontaneous, internally directed cognitive processes.
Azolla-Anabaenaas a Biofertilizer for Rice Paddy Fields in the Po Valley, a Temperate Rice Area in Northern Italy
Authors: Bocchi Stefano , Malgioglio Antonino
Published: May 2010

Azollais a floating pteridophyte, which contains as endosymbiont the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteriumAnabaena azollae(Nostocaceae family). Widely cultivated in the Asian regions,Azollais either incorporated into the soil before rice transplanting or grown as a dual crop along with rice. To examine the feasibility of its use in flooded rice fields sited in the Temperate European Areas, we carried out a series of experiments in PVC tanks during 2000–2002 in Po Valley (northern Italy) conditions, to study the growth-development dynamics and the resistance/tolerance to low temperatures and to commonly used herbicides of several differentAzollastrains. Three out of five strains tested survived the winter, with an increase in biomass from March to May producing approximately 30–40 kg  of nitrogen. One of these strains, named “Milan”, emerged as the most resistant to herbicide and the most productive. Of the herbicides tested, Propanil permitted the survival of growingAzolla.
Characterization of theEscherichia coliAntifungal Protein PPEBL21
Authors: Yadav V. , Mandhan R. , Kumar M. , Gupta J. , Sharma G. L.
Published: May 2010

An antifungal protein isolated fromEscherichia coliBL21 (PPEBL21) and predicted to be alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) was subjected to biological characterization. The PPEBL21, indeed, demonstrated propionaldehyde-specific ADH activity. The Km and Vmax of PPEBL21 were found to be 644.8μM and 1.2 U/mg, respectively. In-gel activity assay also showed that PPEBL21 was a propionaldehyde-specific ADH. The pI of PPEBL21 was observed to be 7.8. PPEBL21 was found to be stable up to a temperature of40∘Cwith optimum activity at pH 7.5. The decrease in pH decreased the activity of PPEBL21. These results suggested that PPEBL21 having alcohol dehydrogenase activity and stability at significantly high temperature might be an important lead antifungal molecule. Experiments were performed to identify the possible target of PPEBL21 in the pathogenA. fumigatus. Results revealed that PPEBL21 inhibited completely the expression of a 16 kDa protein inA. fumigatus. The 16 kDa protein ofA. fumigatustargeted by PPEBL21 was identified as a hypothetical protein by peptide mass fingerprinting. It is thus hypothesized that a 16 kDa factor is essentially required byA. fumigatusfor survival and its impaired synthesis due to treatment with PPEBL21 may lead to the death of pathogen.
Iron Overload in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Raghupathy Radha , Manwani Deepa , Little Jane A.
Published: May 2010

In sickle cell disease transfusions improve blood flow by reducing the proportion of red cells capable of forming sickle hemoglobin polymer. This limits hemolysis and the endothelial damage that result from high proportions of sickle polymer-containing red cells. Additionally, transfusions are used to increase blood oxygen carrying capacity in sickle cell patients with severe chronic anemia or with severe anemic episodes. Transfusion is well-defined as prophylaxis (stroke) and as therapy (acute chest syndrome and stroke) for major complications of sickle cell disease and has been instituted, based on less conclusive data, for a range of additional complications, such as priapism, vaso-occlusive crises, leg ulcers, pulmonary hypertension, and during complicated pregnancies. The major and unavoidable complication of transfusions in sickle cell disease is iron overload. This paper provides an overview of normal iron metabolism, iron overload in transfused patients with sickle cell disease, patterns of end organ damage, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of iron overload.
Effect of Nano‐Ni Catalyst on the Growth and Characterization of Diamond Films by HFCVD
Authors: Teng Chien-Chung , Ku Feng-Chi , Sung Chien-Min , Deng Jin-Pei , Chien Su-Fang , Song Shin-Min , Lin Chhiu-Tsu
Published: May 2010

Four different catalysts, nanodiamond seed, nano‐Ni, diamond powder, and mixture of nano‐Ni/diamond powder, were used to activate Si wafers for diamond film growth by hot‐filament CVD (HFCVD). Diamond crystals were shown to grow directly on both large diamond powder and small nanodiamond seed, but a better crystallinity of diamond film was observed on the ultrasonicated nanodiamond seeded Si substrate. On the other hand, nano‐Ni nanocatalysts seem to promote the formation of amorphous carbon but suppress transpolyacetylene (t‐PA) phases at the initial growth of diamond films. The subsequent nucleation and growth of diamond crystals on the amorphous carbon layer leads to generation of the spherical diamond particles and clusters prior to coalescence into continuous diamond films based on the CH3 addition mechanism as characterized by XRD, Raman, ATR/FT‐IR, XPS, TEM, SEM, and AFM techniques. Moreover, a 36% reduction in surface roughness of diamond film assisted by nano‐Ni catalyst is quite significant.
Model and Simulation of a Tunable Birefringent Fiber Using Capillaries Filled with Liquid Ethanol for Magnetic Quasiphase Matching In-Fiber Isolator
Authors: Zeringue Clint , Moore Gerald T.
Published: May 2010

A technique to tune a magnetic quasi-phase matching in-fiber isolator through the application of stress induced by two mutually orthogonal capillary tubes filled with liquid ethanol is investigated numerically. The results show that it is possible to “tune” the birefringence in these fibers over a limited range depending on the temperature at which the ethanol is loaded into the capillaries. Over this tuning range, the thermal sensitivity of the birefringence is an order-of-magnitude lower than conventional fibers, making this technique well suited for magnetic quasi-phase matching.
Leading-Edge Velocities and Lifted Methane Jet Flame Stability
Authors: Wang W. , Lyons K. M.
Published: May 2010

Current interest exists in understanding reaction-zone dynamics and mechanisms with respect to how they counterpropagate against incoming reactants. Images of flame position and flow-field morphology are presented from flame chemiluminescence and particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements. In the present study, PIV experiments were carried out to measure the methane jet lifted-flame flow-field velocities in the vicinity of the flame leading edge. Specifically, velocity fields within the high-temperature zone were examined in detail, which complements previous studies, whose prime focus is the flow-field upstream of the high-temperature boundary. PIV data is used not only to determine the velocities, but, along with chemiluminescence images, to also indicate the approximate location of the reaction zone (further supported by/through the leading-edge flame velocity distributions). The velocity results indirectly support the concept that the flame is anchored primarily through the mechanism of partially premixed flame propagation.
Suspected Intestinal Tuberculosis Might Be Crohn's Disease
Authors: Folaranmi Semiu Eniola , Mehta Gautam , Datta Debasis , Holdstock Greg
Published: May 2010

In this case report we provide evidence that supports a link between mycobacteria and Crohn's disease. The patient in question, KG, presented on three separate occasions over a ten years period with features suggestive of intestinal tuberculosis. He was treated successfully on each occasion with antimycobacterial drugs. When he presented a fourth time with the same symptoms, he was diagnosed with Crohn's disease based on findings from endoscopy, histology and CT. Subsequently he was treated with a course of steroids and made a full recovery. This case adds weight to the theory that mycobateria has an aetiological role in Crohn's disease.
Linear Independence of q‐Logarithms over the Eisenstein Integers
Authors: Bundschuh Peter , Väänänen Keijo
Published: May 2010

For fixed complex q with |q | > 1, the q‐logarithm Lq is the meromorphic continuation of the series ∑n>0zn/(qn − 1), |z | <|q|, into the whole complex plane. If K is an algebraic number field, one may ask if 1, Lq(1), Lq(c) are linearly independent over K for q, c ∈ K× satisfying |q | > 1, c ≠ q, q2, q3, …. In 2004, Tachiya showed that this is true in the Subcase K = ℚ, q ∈ ℤ, c = −1, and the present authors extended this result to arbitrary integer q from an imaginary quadratic number field K, and provided a quantitative version. In this paper, the earlier method, in particular its arithmetical part, is further developed to answer the above question in the affirmative if K is the Eisenstein number field , q an integer from K, and c a primitive third root of unity. Under these conditions, the linear independence holds also for 1, Lq(c), Lq(c−1), and both results are quantitative.
Micropolar Fluids with Vanishing Viscosity
Authors: Ortega-Torres E. , Villamizar-Roa E. J. , Rojas-Medar M. A.
Published: May 2010

A study of the convergence of weak solutions of the nonstationary micropolar fluids, in
bounded domains of ℝn, when the viscosities tend to zero, is established. In the limit, a fluid governed by an Euler‐like system is found.
The Investigation of Effects of Quercetin and Its Combination with Cisplatin on Malignant Mesothelioma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Demiroglu-Zergeroglu A. , Basara-Cigerim B. , Kilic E. , Yanikkaya-Demirel G.
Published: May 2010

Malignant Mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive and lethal tumour of the serosal surfaces with poor prognosis. In this study, we have investigated the antiproliferative effect of Quercetin (QU) and its combination with Cisplatin (CIS) on SPC212 and SPC111 cell lines. Our experiments showed that QU significantly reduced the proliferation of cell lines, altered the cell cycle distribution, and increased the level of Caspase 9 (C9) and Caspase 3 (C3) in concentration and time-dependent manner. Additionally, the combination of QU + CIS was found more effective when compared with individual treatment of agents.
Sedation and Anesthesia Options for Pediatric Patients in the Radiation Oncology Suite
Authors: Harris Eric A.
Published: May 2010

External beam radiation therapy (XRT) has become one of the cornerstones in the management of pediatric oncology cases. While the procedure itself is painless, the anxiety it causes may necessitate the provision of sedation or anesthesia for the patient. This review paper will briefly review the XRT procedure itself so that the anesthesia provider has an understanding of what is occurring during the simulation and treatment phases. We will then examine several currently used regimens for the provision of pediatric sedation in the XRT suite as well as a discussion of when and how general anesthesia should be performed if deemed necessary. Standards of care with respect to patient monitoring will be addressed. We will conclude with a survey of the developing field of radiation-based therapy administered outside of the XRT suite.
Online Determination of Trace Amounts of Tannic Acid in Colored Tannery Wastewaters by Automatic Reference Flow Injection Analysis
Authors: Wei Liang
Published: May 2010

A simple, rapid and sensitive method was proposed for online determination of tannic acid in colored tannery wastewater by automatic reference flow injection analysis. Based on the tannic acid reduction phosphotungstic acid to form blue compound in pH 12.38 alkaline solutions, the shade of blue compound is in a linear relation to the content of tannic acid at the point of the maximum absorption peak of 760 nm. The optimal experimental conditions had been obtained. The linear range of the proposed method was between 200 μgL−1to 80 mgL−1and the detection limit was 0.58 μgL−1. The relative standard deviation was 3.08% and 2.43% for 500 μgL−1and 40 mgL−1of tannic acid standard solution, respectively, (n=10). The method had been successfully applied to determination of tannic acid in colored tannery wastewaters and the analytical results were satisfactory.
Human Papillomavirus Type 7-Associated Condyloma
Authors: Matsukura Toshihiko , Mitsuishi Tsuyoshi , Sugase Motoyasu , Kawashima Makoto
Published: May 2010

Human papillomavirus type 7 (HPV-7) was originally identified in common warts of butchers. It has remained unclear, however, whether HPV-7 also induces other distinct types of cutaneous lesions. We observed similar keratoses on the groins of 2 patients. The lesions presented as multiple, smooth and small with little change in color from that of the adjacent skin and were diagnosed as condylomas. Their histological features were acanthosis, papillomatosis and parakeratosis with hyperkeratotic perinuclear vacuolation in the granular layer. By Southern blot analysis, HPV-7 DNA was identified in both condylomas. We conclude that HPV-7 infection causes condyloma. In addition, we discuss the long-held dogma regarding the association of HPV-7 with butcher’s warts and highlight the potential need for clinicians to know causal HPV types in cutaneous lesions given the increased use of prophylactic HPV vaccines.
Vulvar Melanocytic Nevi: A Dermoscopic Investigation
Authors: Virgili Annarosa , Zampino Maria Rosaria , Marzola Andrea , Corazza Monica
Published: May 2010

Background: Very few dermoscopic investigations into pigmented genital lesions have been performed to date. To the best of our knowledge, no dermoscopical description of vulvar melanocytic nevi (MN) has yet been proposed. Objective: Our aims were to analyze the dermoscopic features of vulvar MN and to review the literature of dermoscopy of the vulvar area. Methods: Among 74 women presenting 84 vulvar pigmented lesions, 10 who received a visual diagnosis of MN were submitted to dermoscopic and histopathological analysis. Results: Histology confirmed the clinical diagnosis of MN in 8 out of 10 cases, while the remaining 2 pigmented lesions were diagnosed as seborrheic keratosis. Vulvar MN were generally found to share similar dermoscopic patterns with their cutaneous equivalent. Conclusions: Although further observation will be necessary to provide additional data and establish key morphological criteria and/or algorithms useful for differentiating between melanocytic and nonmelanocytic vulvar lesions, dermoscopy should be considered an investigative tool, as clinical observation alone may not be sufficient for accurate diagnosis.
Chloracne: Still Cause for Concern
Authors: Passarini Beatrice , Infusino Salvatore Domenico , Kasapi Evangelia
Published: May 2010

Chloracne, first described by Herxheimer in 1899, is a dermatosis consisting of more or less diffuse acneiform lesions distributed prevalently on the face and on body areas not usually affected by acne and caused by chronic or acute exposure to halogenated chemical compounds. Dioxin is the common name for dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, contaminants nearly ubiquitous in the environment and highly resistant to chemical and biological degradation. These compounds can survive for decades in the environment and accumulate in the human and animal food chains. Chloracne is characterized by the onset of numerous comedo-like lesions and yellowish cysts on the face, particularly on the cheeks, that can spread to the trunk and other body regions not usually affected by acne vulgaris, with diffuse grayish skin pigmentation and sometimes associated with hypertrichosis and areas of folliculitis. The lesions may occasionally be accompanied by skin or systemic manifestations. We report 9 cases of chloracne, 8 of them with rapid onset in patients residing in the same building, and 1 in a patient occupationally exposed to halogenated compounds. In our series, the doses of dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls in the soil, water and plant material, and the serum titer of dioxin were within the normal range. This consideration raises the issue of the need to revise the serum threshold for dioxin poisoning and the environmental threshold. We wish also to underline the value of dermatopathology in the differential diagnosis of chloracne.
The Relation between Plasma Tissue Factor and Oxidized LDL Levels in Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Emekli-Alturfan Ebru , Basar Isik , Alturfan A. Ata , Ayan Faruk , Koldas Lale , Balci Huriye , Emekli Nesrin
Published: May 2010

Aim: Tissue factor (TF) is a low-molecular-weight glycoprotein responsible for the initiation of the coagulation cascade. The relation between oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL), that has been shown to be involved in atherogenesis, and TF has not been evaluated before in circulating plasma. The aim of this study was to determine plasma levels of TF and Ox-LDL in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and stable coronary artery disease (SCAD). Methods: The study group consisted of 41 patients with ACS and 26 patients with SCAD. Among the ACS patients, 12 were diagnosed with unstable angina pectoris (UAP) and 29 were diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The control group consisted of 30 healthy volunteers. TF and Ox-LDL levels were evaluated by ELISA kits. Results: Ox-LDL levels were significantly higher in UAP and AMI patients compared with the control (p < 0.001) and SCAD (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively) groups. TF levels were significantly higher in the UAP, AMI and SCAD groups compared with the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). In the AMI group a significant increase was observed in TF levels when compared with the SCAD group (p < 0.01). Plasma Ox-LDL levels were significantly and positively correlated with TF levels in the UAP and AMI groups (p < 0.05, r = 702, and p < 0.0001, r = 0.679, respectively). Conclusion: Thepotential link between Ox-LDL and TF in circulating blood in ACS may strengthen the evidence supporting a relationship between oxidant stress, lipids and thrombosis and consequently may contribute to understanding the mechanism through which Ox-LDL and TF may mediate the pathogenesis of CAD.
Genistein and Its Analogue Enhanced Tissue Plasminogen Activator Activity in HeLa S3
Authors: Yatagai Chieko , Singu Tatsuya , Maruyama Masugi , Sumi Hiroyuki
Published: May 2010

Soybean isoflavones of genistein and biochanin A, its analogue, promote the activity for generating tissue-plasminogen activator (tPA) from human cervical cancer cells (HeLa S3) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). At a concentration of 50 µM, each of 14 types of isoflavones were added to HeLa culture solution and incubated. After 24 h, the culture solution was replaced, and then incubated for another 24 h. When fibrinolytic activity was checked in the resulting culture solution using the fibrin plate method, substantial fibrinolytic activity was confirmed for two types of isoflavones. Genistein showed the highest level of fibrinolytic activity at 12.4 times the control, and for biochanin A, an analogue of genistein, the level was 3.5 times the control. Checking fibrinolytic activity and molecular weight of the protein bands separated by zymography, a rise in the protein band concentration in proportion to the concentration of the reagents added was confirmed for the protein band with activity in the same position as the standard reference tPA, which has a molecular weight of about 68 kDa. ELISA also demonstrated that the concentration of tPA in the culture solution was higher than that of plasminogen activator-1. Fibrinolytic activity of HUVEC incubated with 25 µM of biochanin A was much higher than that of the control, which suggests that these soybean isoflavones could have beneficial effects on blood circulation in vivo.
Anti-Heparin/PF4 Complexes by ELISA in Patients with Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Matsuo Takefumi , Matsuo Miyako , Sugimoto Takaki , Wanaka Keiko
Published: May 2010

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is known to complicate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), but rarely to be complicated by DIC. We measured the titers of anti-PF4/hepatin complex antibodies by ELISA (HIT-Elisa) and examined 4 parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis [D-dimer, thrombin/antithrombin complex (TAT), plasmin/α2-plasmin inhibitor complex (PIC), and antithrombin levels] in 80 patients with DIC diagnosed by a DIC scoring system. Fourteen patients were HIT-Elisa-positive, 11 of whom received heparin. In 3 of these 11 patients, platelet counts were ≤10 × 109/l and/or reduced by more than 50% for 5–10 days after the heparin (2 patients treated with renal replacement therapy for chronic uremia and postoperative renal failure, and 1 with DIC from a solid tumor). The 3 patients had an optical density reading of >1.0 and a high level of IgG for HIT antibodies, and were thus considered to have DIC complicated with HIT (DIC-HIT). The other 8 patients had optical density readings of 0.4–1.0, and it was unclear whether their thrombocytopenia was caused by HIT alone or by sustained DIC. There were no significant differences in platelet counts and the 4 parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis between the patients with DIC-HIT and DIC patients with a weakly positive result (0.4–1.0). No differences were observed in platelet counts, or levels of D-dimer and antithrombin between HIT-Elisa-positive and -negative DIC patients. However, the HIT-Elisa-negative patients showed significantly higher levels of TAT and PIC, presumably reflecting DIC-related hypercoagulability. In conclusion, DIC patients treated with heparin occasionally showed HIT antibody seroconversion and developed HIT. HIT-Elisa could assist in the diagnosis of HIT.
Transient Visual Loss Triggered by Scuba Diving in a Patient with a Petrous Epidermoid and Combined Thrombotic Risk Factors
Authors: Fodor Mariann , Facskó Andrea , Berényi Ervin , Sziklai István , Berta András , Pfliegler György
Published: May 2010

A 25-year-old woman who developed transient neurological abnormalities after scuba diving is reported. The subsequent day she experienced transient left-side monocular blindness. Arterial ocular occlusion in apparently healthy young women is unusual, and a search for the cause of this devastating vascular event is mandatory. Occlusion of the left branch retinal artery, total occlusion of the left internal carotid artery, and a petrous apex epidermoid were found, together with a shortened prothrombin time (INR: 0.73), a slightly elevated serum cholesterol level (6.1 mmol/l) and combined thrombophilia (elevated FVIIIC plus type 2 sticky platelet syndrome). This case underlines the complex mechanism of thromboembolic diseases, and the importance of the acquired trigger (in the present case scuba diving) in addition to the long-term anatomical and biochemical risk factors.
Surgical Excision of Basal Cell Carcinoma with Complete Margin Control: Outcome at 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Wetzig T. , Woitek M. , Eichhorn K. , Simon J.C. , Paasch U.
Published: May 2010

Background: The incidence of skin cancer and especially basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has increased in the last few decades. The gold standard of care is usually a surgical excision, but it also has the risk of local recurrence depending on tumor characteristics. Objectives: We analyzed the 5-year cure rates after surgical excision of BCC with complete margin control using paraffin-embedded sections. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 671 patients (45.3% male, 54.7% female) with 777 primary and 85 with recurrent BCC were collected during 2001–2003. All patients underwent surgery with complete margin control using paraffin-embedded sections. When the histological examination revealed a positive margin, another surgical step was performed in the area of residual tumor. Results: Five-year follow-up examinations were possible in 630/862 (73.1%) of patients with BCC. In the group with primary BCC (n = 562), 3 tumor recurrences (0.5%) were identified; in the group with recurrent BCC (n = 68), 2 tumor recurrences (2.9%) were seen, resulting in an overall 5-year recurrence rate of 0.8% for all patients with BCC. The mean tumor recurrence time after surgery was 36.6 months. Conclusion: Local complete tumor resection confirmed by complete margin control using paraffin-embedded sections can achieve excellent cure rates for both primary and recurrent BCC.
Development of Two Primary Malignant Melanomas after Treatment with Adalimumab: A Case Report and Review of the Possible Link between Biological Therapy with TNF-α Antagonists and Melanocytic Proliferation
Authors: Katoulis A.C. , Kanelleas A. , Zambacos G. , Panayiotides I. , Stavrianeas N.G.
Published: May 2010

Biologics, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) antagonists, have revolutionized treatment of several significant inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Nevertheless, issues concerning long-term safety remain to be clarified. There is growing evidence linking biological treatments with the occurrence of malignancies or reactivation of latent ones, including malignant melanoma. We report the case of a 75-year-old male patient who developed 2 primary malignant melanomas (MM) after treatment with adalimumab for rheumatoid arthritis. He was under adalimumab treatment for approximately 12 months before the diagnosis of MM on his right lower leg. After surgical removal and staging, no evidence of metastases was found. A few months later, a second MM developed on the patient’s scalp. The short duration of treatment with adalimumab and the unclear temporal relationship cannot adequately support a probable link between this double MM occurrence and the adalimumab-induced immunosuppressive state. The result of a literature search regarding the possible association between anti-TNF drugs and melanocytic proliferation is provided.
Evolution of Clinical and Molecular Responses to Bexarotene Treatment in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ballanger F. , Nguyen J.M. , Khammari A. , Dréno B.
Published: May 2010

Background: The mechanisms of action of bexarotene are not well understood. Methods: A retrospective study on patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) treated with bexarotene was performed to see if bexarotene could act on the dominant T-cell clones. Thirty-five patients were included. Twenty-three were treated with bexarotene for more than 3 months (300 mg/m2). In 7 patients, phototherapy was given with bexarotene. Results: Dominant T-cell clones were observed in 11 patients in peripheral blood and in 19 patients in skin. Our results demonstrate no significant evolution of T-cell clones either in skin or peripheral blood. Furthermore, the detection of T-cell clones in peripheral blood before starting bexarotene was significantly associated with the progression of the disease. UV therapy given with bexarotene significantly improved therapeutic response without any correlation with T-cell clones. Conclusion: This is the first study on the evolution of the T-cell clone in blood and skin in CTCL patients during bexarotene therapy.
Retinal and Ocular Toxicity in Ocular Application of Drugs and Chemicals – Part I: Animal Models and Toxicity Assays
Authors: Penha Fernando Marcondes , Rodrigues Eduardo B. , Maia Maurício , Dib Eduardo , Fiod Costa Elaine , Furlani Bruno A. , Nunes Moraes Filho Milton , Dreyfuss Juliana L. , Bottós Juliana , Farah Michel E.
Published: May 2010

Aims: Experimental retinal research has gained great importance due to the ophthalmic pharmacotherapy era. An increasing number of drugs are constantly released into the market for the treatment of retinal diseases. In this review, animal species, animal models and toxicity assays in retinal research are discussed. Methods: An extensive search of the literature was performed to review various aspects of the methods of investigation of drug toxicity. The different types of animal species, as well as single animal models available for the evaluation of safety and efficacy of retinal pharmacotherapy, were identified. In addition, a large variety of reported laboratory techniques were critically examined. Results: In vitro studies are the first-line experiments for the development of a new drug for retinal diseases, using retinal pigment epithelial cells and other cell lines. The next step involves in vivo animal studies where nonhuman primates are considered the gold standard. However, cost and legal issues make their use difficult. Mice and rats provide genetically controlled models for investigations. Pigs, dogs and cats represent good large-size animal models, while rabbits are one of the most used species for retinal toxicity evaluations. Various laboratory methods were identified, including light microscopy, electron microscopy, electroretinography and new emerging methods, such as optical coherence tomography and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy for experimental purposes. Conclusions: A great number of animal species and models are available that simulate retinal diseases and provide experimental data for further human use. Work with animal models should include properly designed toxicity assays to obtain reliable results for safety and efficacy.
Albumin Uptake in OK Cells Exposed to Rotenone: A Model for Studying the Effects of Mitochondrial Dysfunction on Endocytosis in the Proximal Tubule?
Authors: Hall A.M. , Campanella M. , Loesch A. , Duchen M.R. , Unwin R.J.
Published: May 2010

Background: The renal proximal tubule (PT) is clinically vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction; sub-lethal injury can lead to the Fanconi syndrome, with elevated urinary excretion of low-molecular-weight proteins. As the mechanism that couples mitochondrial dysfunction to impaired PT low-molecular weight protein uptake is unknown, we investigated the effect of respiratory chain (RC) inhibitors on endocytosis of FITC-albumin in PT-derived OK cells. Methods: Uptake of FITC-albumin was quantified using confocal microscopy. Cytosolic ATP levels were measured in real time using both luciferin/luciferase assays and measurements of free [Mg2+]. Reactive oxygen species production was measured using mitosox. Results: RC blockade produced only a small decrease in cytosolic ATP levels and had minimal effect on FITC-albumin uptake. Inhibition of glycolysis caused a much bigger decrease in both cytosolic ATP levels and FITC-albumin endocytosis. Rotenone led to higher rates of reactive oxygen species production than other RC inhibitors. Rotenone also caused widespread structural damage on electron microscopy, which was mimicked by colchicine and prevented by taxol; consistent with inhibition of microtubule polymerisation as the underlying mechanism. Conclusions: Endocytosis of FITC-albumin is ATP-dependent in OK cells, but the cells are very glycolytic and therefore represent a poor metabolic model of the PT. Rotenone has toxic extra-mitochondrial structural effects.
Myocardial Structural, Perfusion, and Metabolic Correlates of Left Bundle Branch Block Mechanical Derangement in Patients With Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Masci Pier Giorgio , Marinelli Martina , Piacenti Marcello , Lorenzoni Valentina , Positano Vincenzo , Lombardi Massimo , L'Abbate Antonio , Neglia Danilo
Published: May 2010

Background—

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) influences on regional left ventricular (LV) structure, perfusion, and metabolism have not yet been thoroughly investigated in dilated cardiomyopathy patients.

Methods and Results—

Eleven dilated cardiomyopathy patients with LBBB (mean±SD age, 62±11 years; LV ejection fraction, 35±8%) and 7 dilated cardiomyopathy patients without LBBB (mean±SD age, 58±9 years; LV ejection fraction, 37±10%) were studied by cardiac magnetic resonance and positron emission tomography. The left ventricle was divided in 3 regions: septum, adjacent (anterior-inferior walls), and lateral. Regional midwall circumferential strain, maximum shortening, and strain rate were obtained from tagged cardiac magnetic resonance. The systolic stretch index was calculated as positive strain rate (stretching) divided by total strain rate. Myocardial metabolic rate of glucose and resting and hyperemic myocardial blood flow were quantified by 2-[
18
F]fluoro-2-deoxyglucose and [
13
N]ammonia positron emission tomography, respectively. Compared with non-LBBB patients, LBBB patients showed a highly inhomogeneous systolic deformation pattern that changed gradually, moving from a discoordinate [(systolic stretch index, 0.485 (0.284)] and poorly contracting (maximum shortening, −1.14±0.96%) septum to a coordinate [systolic stretch index, 0.002 (0.168)] and strongly contracting (maximum shortening, −13.63±2.58%) lateral region (both
P
<0.0001). This pattern was closely matched to the myocardial metabolic rate of glucose, disclosing lowest, intermediate, and highest values in the septum, adjacent, and lateral regions, respectively (
P
<0.0001). Septal-to-lateral thickness ratio was lower in LBBB than in non-LBBB patients (
P
=0.03). In both groups, the LV distribution of resting and hyperemic myocardial blood flow and myocardial blood flow reserve did not differ significantly.

Conclusions—

In dilated cardiomyopathy patients, the extensive LV contraction abnormalities induced by LBBB cause regional myocardial metabolic and structural remodeling, without consistent changes in blood flow.
Aldose Reductase and Cardiovascular Diseases, Creating Human-Like Diabetic Complications in an Experimental Model
Authors: Ramasamy Ravichandran , Goldberg Ira J.
Published: May 2010

Abstract
:

Hyperglycemia and reduced insulin actions affect many biological processes. One theory is that aberrant metabolism of glucose via several pathways including the polyol pathway causes cellular toxicity. Aldose reductase (AR) is a multifunctional enzyme that reduces aldehydes. Under diabetic conditions AR converts glucose into sorbitol, which is then converted to fructose. This article reviews the biology and pathobiology of AR actions. AR expression varies considerably among species. In humans and rats, the higher level of AR expression is associated with toxicity. Flux via AR is increased by ischemia and its inhibition during ischemia reperfusion reduces injury. However, similar pharmacological effects are not observed in mice unless they express a human AR transgene. This is because mice have much lower levels of AR expression, probably insufficient to generate toxic byproducts. Human AR expression in LDL receptor knockout mice exacerbates vascular disease, but only under diabetic conditions. In contrast, a recent report suggests that genetic ablation of AR increased atherosclerosis and increased hydroxynonenal in arteries. It was hypothesized that AR knockout prevented reduction of toxic aldehydes. Like many in vivo effects found in genetically manipulated animals, interpretation requires the reproduction of human-like physiology. For AR, this will require tissue specific expression of AR in sites and at levels that approximate those in humans.
Actus shamimi n. sp. (Nematoda: Mononchida) from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, with a key to the species of Actus Baqri & Jairajpuri, 1974
Authors: Chatterjee Amalendu , Ghosh Goutam , Jana Tiasi
Published: May 2010

A new predatory nematode species, Actus shamimi n. sp., is described and illustrated. Actus shamimi n. sp. is characterised by medium body length, buccal cavity barrel-shaped with apex of dorsal tooth located at ca 80% from base of cavity and 3-6 subventral denticles present in each latero-subventral row, cardia triangular in shape, amphidelphic gonad with longer oviduct, vagina very short and with distinct pars refringens vaginae containing cuboidal sclerotised pieces, tail elongate-conoid, slightly arcuate ventrally with three caudal glands and prominent terminal spinneret opening. It is similar to A. baqrus but has a smaller body length; absence of advulval papillae and shorter tail. It also differs from A. neocaledonensis in the position of the dorsal tooth apex, length of tail and presence of caudal glands and spinneret. The new species also differs from A. conoidus in the larger buccal cavity; lower lip height; lower c′ value and in having a sphincter at the oviduct-uterus junction; and from A. minutus and A. salvadoricus by longer body, longer buccal cavity, presence of a much more anteriorly located dorsal tooth and much higher c value. The genus Actus is reported for the first time from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. A key to species in the genus is provided.