bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ban Tu Wan hepatotoxicity: Table 1
Authors: Cortez Eric , Boulger Creagh , Bernard Aaron
Published: August 2012

Medications are thought to contribute to approximately 50% of the cases of acute liver failure in the USA. This number includes some herbal medications and supplements. However, little regulatory oversight of these later substances occurs. This report describes a case of fulminant hepatic failure secondary to Ban Tu Wan (a Chinese herb). We discuss the use of this herbal supplement and the relationship to drug-induced hepatitis.
Toxic megacolon from fulminantClostridium difficileinfection induced by topical silver sulphadiazine
Authors: Tan Christopher B , Rajan Dhyan , Shah Mitanshu , Ahmed Shadab , Freedman Lester , Rizvon Kaleem , Mustacchia Paul
Published: August 2012

Pseudomembranous colitis and toxic megacolon (TM) are well-known complications ofClostridium difficileinfections. Systemic antibiotic is considered as the major risk factor for the development ofC difficilecolitis. However, topical antibiotics are rarely associated with the infection. As previously thought, the use of topical antibiotic is capable of systemic absorption in damaged and denuded skin; sufficient enough to suppress the normal bowel flora. Here, we present an unusual case of TM fromC difficileinfection induced by topical silver sulphadiazine in a 60-year-old man with immune-bullous pemphigus vulgaris. The diagnosis is further complicated by the absence of diarrhoea as the initial presentation. Despite adequate medical and surgical intervention, the patient had an unfavourable outcome.
Diagnostic dilemmas in cardiology
Authors: Costopoulos Charis , Benson Adam , Prasad Sanjay , Ghuran Azad
Published: August 2012

A 29-year-old pregnant woman presented in accident and emergency with severe acute left ventricular failure requiring admission to the intensive care unit. A nasal swab was found to be positive for H1N1 making peripartum and viral cardiomyopathies, the most likely differential diagnoses. CT coronary angiography and subsequent invasive angiography revealed an anomalous coronary system thus making ischaemic cardiomyopathy also a possibility. Cardiac MRI played a vital role in identifying the underlying cause, which in this case was that of H1N1 influenza cardiomyopathy. Correct diagnosis in such patients is paramount as this impinges on patients’ overall prognosis. In this case aggressive initial therapy including inotropic support and invasive ventilation followed by standard antifailure treatment with β-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors led to restoration of the patient's left ventricular function and an associated marked improvement in symptoms.
An unusual cause of a pulmonary opacity in a visitor to the UK
Authors: Downie Beatrice Anne Marie , Rosser Gareth , Atkin Catherine Mary , Dubrey Simon William
Published: August 2012

A 64-year-old man, resident in Arizona for 3 years, presented with a week-long history of a dry cough and ‘flu-like symptoms’. He had recently been renovating his house. A chest radiograph showed a left mid-zone opacity. Investigations for lung cancer were performed and he underwent CT-guided biopsy of the lesion. A coccidioidal fungus known to cause ‘Valley Fever’ was isolated. Treatment with fluconazole led to a complete recovery. This fungal infection is endemic in parts of the USA and Mexico and usually presents with respiratory symptoms. Additional complications include disseminated disease and meningitis.
Composition of Dithyrea wislizenii fruit extract and free-radical scavenging activity of its constituents
Authors: Montaut Sabine , Grandbois Julie , Rossi Laura S. , Kamal Sonia , Khouri James , Ménard Melissa G. , Joly Hélène A.
Published: August 2012

Glucolesquerellin (2), glucohesperin (3), quercetin 3-O-sophoroside (4), and quercetin 3-O-sophoroside-7-O-glucoside (5), isolated from the fruit of Dithyrea wislizenii , were quantified by HPLC. The fruit extract and flavonoids were not found to be toxic by using a brine shrimp lethality assay. The fruit extract and the flavonoids and glucosinolates were submitted to a free-radical scavenging activity assay with the diphenylpicrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•). The concentration of quercetin (6) (a positive control for the flavonoids) able to scavenge 50% of DPPH• (SC50) was 32 ± 2 µmol/L (or 4 ± 1 µg/mL), which was about 27 times more potent than the crude extract. Compounds 4 and 5 had a SC50, the concentration of the compound required to scavenge 50% of the DPPH•, of 78 ± 1 µmol/L and 113 ± 10 µmol/L, respectively. The positive control for the glucosinolates, glucoraphasatin, (1) had a SC50 of 1768 ± 60 µmol/L. The glucosinolates 2 and 3 had a SC50 of 7819 ± 1968 and 970 ± 63 µmol/L, respectively.
Theoretical study on the chemical formation mechanism of a β-myrcene ozonolysis reaction under atmospheric conditions
Authors: Zhao Yuyang , Bai Jing , Zhang Chenxi , Gong Chen , Sun Xiaomin
Published: August 2012

Density functional theory (DFT) was used to study the β-myrcene ozonolysis reaction. The reactants, intermediates, transition states, and products were optimized at the MPWB1K/6–31G(d,p) level. The single-point energies were performed at the MPWB1K/6–311+G(3df,2p) level. The profiles of the potential energy surfaces were constructed and the rate constants of the reaction steps were analyzed. The possible reaction mechanisms for the ozonolysis intermediates in real atmosphere are also discussed. Based on quantum chemistry information, the rate constants were calculated using Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM) theory and the canonical variational transition-state theory (CVT) with small curvature tunneling effect (SCT). Arrhenius equations of rate constants over the temperature range of 200–800 K are provided, and the lifetimes of the reaction species in the troposphere were estimated according to rate constants.
SMOOTHED INVARIANTS
Authors: DYE H. A.
Published: August 2012

We construct two knot invariants. The first knot invariant is a matrix constructed using linking numbers. This matrix can be represented as a two variable polynomial. The second is an invariant of flat knots and is a formal sum of flat knots obtained by smoothing pairs of crossings. This invariant can be used in conjunction with other flat invariants, forming a family of invariants. Both invariants are constructed using the parity of a crossing.
BIQUANDLES WITH STRUCTURES RELATED TO VIRTUAL LINKS AND TWISTED LINKS
Authors: KAMADA NAOKO , KAMADA SEIICHI
Published: August 2012

We introduce two kinds of structures, called v-structures and t-structures, on biquandles. These structures are used for colorings of diagrams of virtual links and twisted links such that the numbers of colorings are invariants. Given a biquandle or a quandle, we give a method of constructing a biquandle with these structures. Using the numbers of colorings, we show that Bourgoin's twofoil and non-orientable virtual m-foils do not represent virtual links.
Evidence for non-Andersonian faulting above evaporites in the Nile Delta
Authors: Tingay Mark , Bentham Peter , De Feyter Arnoud , Kellner Axel
Published: August 2012

This study examines present-day stress orientations from borehole breakout and drilling-induced fractures in 57 boreholes in the Nile Delta. A total of 588 breakouts and 68 drilling-induced fractures from 50 wells reveal sharply contrasting present-day maximum horizontal stress (
S
Hmax
) orientations across the Nile Delta. A typical deltaic margin-parallel
S
Hmax
exists in parts of the Nile Delta that are below or absent from evaporites (NNE–SSW in the west, east–west in the central Nile, ESE–WNW in the east). However, a largely margin-normal (NNE–SSW)
S
Hmax
is observed in sequences underlain by evaporites in the eastern Nile Delta. The margin-normal supra-salt
S
Hmax
orientations are often subperpendicular to the strike of nearby active extensional faults, rather than being parallel to the faults as predicted by Andersonian criteria. The high angle between
S
Hmax
and strike of these extensional faults represents a new type of non-Andersonian faulting that is even less-suitably oriented for shear failure than previously described anomalous faulting such as low-angle normal faults and highly oblique strike-slip faults (e.g. San Andreas). While the mechanics of these non-Andersonian faults remains uncertain, it is suggested that the margin-normal supra-salt orientation generated by basal forces imparted upon rafted blocks sliding down seawards-dipping evaporites.
Reverse fault rupturing: competition between non-optimal and optimal fault orientations
Authors: Sibson R. H.
Published: August 2012

A dip histogram for intracontinental
M
>5.5 reverse-slip ruptures reveals a trimodal distribution with a dominant Andersonian peak (fault dip,
δ
=30±5°) flanked by subsidiary clusters at
δ
=10±5° and 50±5°, and no dips greater than 60°. For a simple compressional regime (
σ
v
=
σ
3
), the dominant peak is in accord with the reshear of optimally oriented faults with a friction coefficient of
μ
s
=0.6±0.2, implying frictional lock-up at
δ
=60±10° consistent with the observed upper dip bound. The low-dip cluster (
δ
=10±5°) is dominated by thrusting in the frontal Himalaya and may incorporate staircase thrust systems in cover sequences with deflections along bedding anisotropy. The cluster of moderate-to-steep reverse fault ruptures (
δ
=50±5°) is likely dominated by compressional inversion of inherited normal faults. In both circumstances, however, there appears to be competition between Andersonian thrusts in various stages of development and non-optimal failure planes dipping at either high or low angles. A delicate balance between levels of differential stress and fluid-pressure determines whether or not a poorly oriented thrust or reverse fault reactivates in preference to the development of new, favourably oriented Andersonian thrusts.
The complexity of 3D stress-state changes during compressional tectonic inversion at the onset of orogeny
Authors: Van Noten Koen , Van Baelen Hervé , Sintubin Manuel
Published: August 2012

Compressional tectonic inversions are classically represented in 2D brittle failure mode (BFM) plots that illustrate the change in differential stress (
σ
1
−
σ
3
) versus the pore-fluid pressure during orogenic shortening. In these BFM plots, the tectonic switch between extension and compression occurs at a differential stress state of zero. However, mostly anisotropic conditions are present in the Earth's crust, making isotropic stress conditions highly questionable. In this study, theoretical 3D stress-state reconstructions are proposed to illustrate the complexity of triaxial stress transitions during compressional inversion of Andersonian stress regimes. These reconstructions are based on successive late burial and early tectonic quartz veins which reflect early Variscan tectonic inversion in the Rhenohercynian foreland fold-and-thrust belt (High-Ardenne Slate Belt, Belgium, Germany). This theoretical exercise predicts that, no matter the geometry of the basin or the orientation of shortening, a transitional ‘wrench’ tectonic regime should always occur between extension and compression. To date, this intermediate regime has never been observed in structures in a shortened basin affected by tectonic inversion. Our study implies that stress transitions are therefore more complex than classically represented in 2D. Ideally, a transitional ‘wrench’ regime should be implemented in BFM plots at the switch between the extensional and compressional regimes.
Catestatin has an unexpected effect on the intrathecal actions of PACAP dramatically reducing blood pressure
Authors: Gaede Andrea H. , Inglott Melissa A. , Farnham Melissa M. J. , Pilowsky Paul M.
Published: August 2012

This study focuses on presympathetic neurons of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) that regulate sympathetic vasomotor tone. Many neurotransmitters are colocalized in RVLM neurons and are released under specific conditions to modulate efferent homeostatic responses. Of particular interest here are two peptides colocalized in catecholaminergic RVLM neurons: catestatin and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). Chromogranin A-derived catestatin is a potent endogenous noncompetitive nicotinic and adrenoreceptor antagonist. Catestatin impairs adenylate cyclase and phospholipase C action: mechanisms engaged by PACAP. Although PACAP and catestatin are likely coreleased, the possible effects of this are unknown. We aimed to determine whether catestatin affects the normal sympathoexcitatory but isotensive responses to intrathecal PACAP. Urethane-anesthetized, vagotomized, ventilated Sprague-Dawley rats ( n = 22) were given an intrathecal injection of catestatin at different times prior to intrathecal administration of PACAP-38. Arterial pressure, splanchnic sympathetic nerve activity, heart rate, and reflex responses to baroreceptor and chemoreceptor activation were recorded. The key findings of this study are that pretreatment with catestatin time dependently enhances the PACAP-38 effect on mean arterial pressure and enhances sympathetic barosensitivity and chemosensitivity. The time-scale of the effect of catestatin on the response to PACAP-38 strongly suggests that catestatin is either causing changes in gene expression to exert its effects, or modifying intracellular mechanisms normally engaged by PAC1 receptors. The ability of catestatin pretreatment to enhance barosensitivity and chemosensitivity after PACAP-38 injection supports the hypothesis that catestatin manipulates the intracellular environment within sympathetic neurons in a way that increases responses to PACAP.
Enhanced renal Na+reabsorption by carbohydrate in beverages during restitution from thermal and exercise-induced dehydration in men
Authors: Kamijo Yoshi-ichiro , Ikegawa Shigeki , Okada Yoshiyuki , Masuki Shizue , Okazaki Kazunobu , Uchida Koji , Sakurai Masao , Nose Hiroshi
Published: August 2012

We examined whether carbohydrate in beverages accelerated fluid retention during recovery from thermal and exercise-induced dehydration and whether it was caused in part by an enhanced renal Na+reabsorption rate due to insulin secretion. After dehydrating by ∼2.3% body weight by exercise in a hot environment, seven young men underwent high-carbohydrate, low-carbohydrate, or control rehydration trials by drinking one of three beverages with 3.4 g glucose + 3.1 g fructose, 1.7 g glucose + 1.6 g fructose, or 0.0 g glucose + 0.0 g fructose per deciliter, respectively, in a common composition of electrolyte solution: 21 meq/l [Na+], 5 meq/l [K+], 16.5 meq/l [Cl−], 10 meq/l [citrate−3]. They drank the same amount of beverage as total body weight loss within 30 min. During the 60 min before the start of drinking and the following 180 min, we measured plasma volume (PV), plasma glucose ([Glc]p), serum insulin ([Ins]s), plasma Na+concentrations, and the renal clearances of inulin, lithium, and Na+with plasma vasopressin ([AVP]p) and aldosterone concentrations ([Ald]p) every 30 min. After dehydration, PV decreased by ∼5% and plasma osmolality increased by ∼6 mosmol/kgH2O in all trials with no significant differences among them. We found in the high-carbohydrate trial that 1) PV increased faster than in the control trial and remained at the higher level than other trials for the last 60 min ( P < 0.05); 2) accumulated urine volume was smallest after 90 min ( P < 0.05); 3) the renal Na+reabsorption rate was greatest for the first 120 min ( P < 0.05); 4) during which period [AVP]pand [Ald]pwere not significantly different from other trials (both, P > 0.9); and 5) [Glc]pand [Ins]swere highest from 45 to 105 min ( P < 0.05) during rehydration. Thus carbohydrate in beverages enhances renal Na+reabsorption, and insulin is possibly involved in this enhancement.
Pontine μ-opioid receptors mediate bradypnea caused by intravenous remifentanil infusions at clinically relevant concentrations in dogs
Authors: Prkic Ivana , Mustapic Sanda , Radocaj Tomislav , Stucke Astrid G. , Stuth Eckehard A. E. , Hopp Francis A. , Dean Caron , Zuperku Edward J.
Published: August 2012

Life-threatening side effects such as profound bradypnea or apnea and variable upper airway obstruction limit the use of opioids for analgesia. It is yet unclear which sites containing μ-opioid receptors (μORs) within the intact in vivo mammalian respiratory control network are responsible. The purpose of this study was 1) to define the pontine region in which μOR agonists produce bradypnea and 2) to determine whether antagonism of those μORs reverses bradypnea produced by intravenous remifentanil (remi; 0.1–1.0 μg·kg−1·min−1). The effects of microinjections of agonist [d-Ala2, N-Me-Phe4,Gly-ol5]-enkephalin (DAMGO; 100 μM) and antagonist naloxone (NAL; 100 μM) into the dorsal rostral pons on the phrenic neurogram were studied in a decerebrate, vagotomized, ventilated, paralyzed canine preparation during hyperoxia. A 1-mm grid pattern of microinjections was used. The DAMGO-sensitive region extended from 5 to 7 mm lateral of midline and from 0 to 2 mm caudal of the inferior colliculus at a depth of 3–4 mm. During remi-induced bradypnea (∼72% reduction in fictive breathing rate) NAL microinjections (∼500 nl each) within the region defined by the DAMGO protocol were able to reverse bradypnea by 47% (SD 48.0%) per microinjection, with 13 of 84 microinjections producing complete reversal. Histological examination of fluorescent microsphere injections shows that the sensitive region corresponds to the parabrachial/Kölliker-Fuse complex.
A Prospective, Multinational Pharmacoepidemiological Study of Clinical Conversion to Sirolimus Immunosuppression after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Kasiske Bertram L. , Nashan Bjorn , Del Carmen Rial Maria , Raffaele Pablo , Russ Graeme , Campistol Josep , Pescovitz Mark D. , Keown Paul A.
Published: August 2012

This prospective pharmacoepidemiological study examined treatment and outcomes in patients converted to sirolimus (SRL) after renal transplantation. 484 subjects in 36 centres in 7 countries were followed for up to 5 years. Principal reasons for conversion were declining graft function (146/484, 30%) and side effects of prior therapy (144/484, 30%) and the major treatment combinations after conversion were SRL ± MMF (62%), SRL + TAC (21.5%), SRL + CSA (16.5%). The cumulative probability of biopsy-confirmed acute rejection (BCAR) was 5% (n=22), death-censored graft loss 12% (n=56) and death 6% (n=22), and there was no significant relationship to the treatment combination employed. Median calculated creatinine clearance was 48.4 (29.3, 64.5) mL/min at conversion, rising to 54.1 (41.2, 69.0) mL/min at month 1, 55.7 (39.0, 73.0) mL/min at month 12, 58.6 (39.7, 75.2) mL/min at two years and 60.9 (36.0, 77.0) mL/min at three years post-conversion. The most common adverse events were hypertension (47%), hyperlipidemia (26%), urinary tract infections (25%), anaemia (24%) and diarrhea (14%), and cardiac events, hyperlipemia and CMV infection were more common in patients converted during the first year. SRL was most frequently combined with MMF after conversion, but principal clinical outcomes were not significantly influenced by the treatment combination employed in normal practice.
The Effects of Selective Logging Behaviors on Forest Fragmentation and Recovery
Authors: Rondon Xanic J. , Cumming Graeme S. , Cossío Rosa E. , Southworth Jane
Published: August 2012

To study the impacts of selective logging behaviors on a forest landscape, we developed an intermediate-scale spatial model to link cross-scale interactions of timber harvesting, a fine-scale human activity, with coarse-scale landscape impacts. We used the Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model with Holling’s functional response II to simulate selective logging, coupled with a cellular automaton model to simulate logger mobility and forest fragmentation. Three logging scenarios were simulated, each varying in timber harvesting preference and logger mobility. We quantified forest resilience by evaluating (1) the spatial patterns of forest fragmentation, (2) the time until the system crossed a threshold into a deforested state, and (3) recovery time. Our simulations showed that logging behaviors involving decisions made about harvesting timber and mobility can lead to different spatial patterns of forest fragmentation. They can, together with forest management practices, significantly delay or accelerate the transition of a forest landscape to a deforested state and its return to a recovered state. Intermediate-scale models emerge as useful tools for understanding cross-scale interactions between human activities and the spatial patterns that are created by anthropogenic land use.
In VitroandIn VivoToxicity ofGarciniaor Hydroxycitric Acid: A Review
Authors: Chuah Li Oon , Yeap Swee Keong , Ho Wan Yong , Beh Boon Kee , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu
Published: August 2012

Obesity is one of the pandemic chronic diseases commonly associated with health disorders such as heart attack, high blood pressure, diabetes or even cancer. Among the current natural products for obesity and weight control,Garciniaor more specifically hydroxycitric acid (HCA) extracted fromGarciniahas been widely used. The evaluation of the potential toxicity of weight control supplement is of the utmost importance as it requires long term continuous consumption in order to maintain its effects. Majority of reports demonstrated the efficacy ofGarcinia/HCA without any toxicity found. However, a few clinical toxicity reports on weight-loss diet supplements of which some were combinations that includedGarcinia/HCA as an active ingredient showed potential toxicity towards spermatogenesis. Nonetheless, it cannot be concluded thatGarcinia/HCA is unsafe. Those products which have been reported to possess adverse effects are either polyherbal or multi-component in nature. To date, there is no case study or report showing the direct adverse effect of HCA. The structure, mechanism of action, long history of the use ofGarcinia/HCA and comprehensive scientific evidence had shown “no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL)” at levels up to 2800 mg/day, suggesting its safety for use.
On the Convergence of Continuous‐Time Waveform Relaxation Methods for Singular Perturbation Initial Value Problems
Authors: Zhao Yongxiang , Li Li
Published: August 2012

This paper extends the continuous‐time waveform relaxation method to singular perturbation initial value problems. The sufficient conditions for convergence of continuous‐time waveform relaxation methods for singular perturbation initial value problems are given.
Division-Free Multiquantization Scheme for Modern Video Codecs
Authors: Das Mousumi , Mostafa Atahar , Wahid Khan
Published: August 2012

The current trend of digital convergence leads to the need of the video encoder/decoder (codec) that should support multiple video standards on a single platform as it is expensive to use dedicated video codec chip for each standard. The paper presents a high performance circuit shared architecture that can perform the quantization of five popular video codecs such as H.264/AVC, AVS, VC-1, MPEG-2/4, and JPEG. The proposed quantizer architecture is completely division-free as the division operation is replaced by shift and addition operations for all the standards. The design is implemented on FPGA and later synthesized in CMOS 0.18 μm technology. The results show that the proposed design satisfies the requirement of all five codecs with a maximum decoding capability of 60 fps at 187 MHz on Xilinx FPGA platform for 1080 p HD video.
Responses of Metabolites in Soybean Shoot Apices to Changing Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentrations
Authors: Sicher Richard
Published: August 2012

Soybean seedlings were grown in controlled environment chambers with CO2partial pressures of 38 (ambient) and 72 (elevated) Pa. Five or six shoot apices were harvested from individual 21- to 24-day-old plants. Metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatography and, out of 21 compounds, only sucrose and fructose increased in response to CO2enrichment. One unidentified metabolite, Unk-21.03 decreased up to 80% in soybean apices in response to elevated CO2. Levels of Unk-21.03 decreased progressively when atmospheric CO2partial pressures were increased from 26 to 100 Pa. Reciprocal transfer experiments showed that Unk-21.03, and sucrose in soybean apices were altered slowly over several days to changes in atmospheric CO2partial pressures. The mass spectrum of Unk-21.03 indicated that this compound likely contained both an amino and carboxyl group and was structurally related to serine and aspartate. Our findings suggested that CO2enrichment altered a small number of specific metabolites in soybean apices. This could be an important step in understanding how plant growth and development are affected by carbon dioxide enrichment.
Early-Onset Chronic Inflammatory Disease Associated with Maternal Microchimerism
Authors: Ishikawa Tomoaki , Sakurai Yoshihiko , Takeda Tomohiro , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: August 2012

Maternal microchimerism (mMc) refers to the presence of a small population of cells originating from the mother. Whether mMc leads to autoimmune responses in children remains controversial. We describe here an 11-year-old boy with persistent fever and elevated levels of C-reactive protein from infancy onward. During infancy, the patient presented with high fever, skin rashes, and hepatic dysfunction. Careful examination including a liver biopsy failed to reveal the cause. At 4 years old, petechiae developed associated with thrombocytopenia and positive anti-dsDNA autoantibodies. Steroid pulse therapy was effective, but the effect of low-dose prednisone was insufficient. At age 9, an extensive differential diagnosis was considered especially for infantile onset autoinflammatory disorders but failed to make a definitive diagnosis. On admission, the patient exhibited short stature, hepatosplenomegaly, generalized superficial lymphadenopathy, and rashes. Laboratory findings revealed anemia, elevated levels of inflammation markers, and hypergammaglobulinemia. Serum complement levels were normal. Serum levels of IL-6 and B-cell activating factor were elevated. Viral infections were not identified. Although HLA typing revealed no noninherited maternal antigens in lymphocytes, female cells were demonstrated in the patient’s skin and lymph nodes, suggesting that maternal microchimerism might be involved in the pathogenesis of fever without source in infants.
Prevention and Treatment of Postoperative Infections after Sinus Elevation Surgery: Clinical Consensus and Recommendations
Authors: Testori Tiziano , Drago Lorenzo , Wallace Steven S. , Capelli Matteo , Galli Fabio , Zuffetti Francesco , Parenti Andrea , Deflorian Matteo , Fumagalli Luca , Weinstein Roberto L. , Maiorana Carlo , Di Stefano Danilo , Valentini Pascal , Giannì Aldo B. , Chiapasco Matteo , Vinci Raffaele , Pignataro Lorenzo , Mantovani Mario , Torretta Sara , Pipolo Carlotta , Felisati Giovanni , Padoan Giovanni , Castelnuovo Paolo , Mattina Roberto , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Maxillary sinus surgery is a reliable and predictable treatment option for the prosthetic rehabilitation of the atrophic maxilla. Nevertheless, these interventions are not riskless of postoperative complications with respect to implant positioning in pristine bone.Aim. The aim of this paper is to report the results of a clinical consensus of experts (periodontists, implantologists, maxillofacial surgeons, ENT, and microbiology specialists) on several clinical questions and to give clinical recommendations on how to prevent, diagnose, and treat postoperative infections.Materials and Methods. A panel of experts in different fields of dentistry and medicine, after having reviewed the available literature on the topic and taking into account their long-standing clinical experience, gave their response to a series of clinical questions and reached a consensus.Results and Conclusion. The incidence of postop infections is relatively low (2%–5.6%). A multidisciplinary approach is advisable. A list of clinical recommendation are given.
Congenital Complete Atrioventricular Block and Dilated Cardiomyopathy: New Light for an Old Disease
Authors: Paiva Mariana , Ribeiro Vania , Garcia Raquel , Amorim Sandra , Campelo Manuel , Martins Elisabete , Moura Brenda , Cardoso Jose , Maciel M. Júlia
Published: August 2012

We present a case of a patient with known complete congenital atrioventricular block (CAVB) since the age of 7 years old that developed dilated cardiomyopathy ten years after VVI-R pacemaker implantation. He presented severe biventricular dysfunction and was symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy. Cardiac resynchronization therapy was used, and he showed clinical and electrocardiographic improvement a month later.
Subharmonic Solutions with Prescribed Minimal Periodic for a Class of Second‐Order Impulsive Functional Differential Equations
Authors: Wang Qi , Lu Dicheng , Zheng Zhaoyue
Published: August 2012

By using critical point theory and variational methods, we investigate the subharmonic solutions with prescribed minimal period for a class of second‐order impulsive functional differential equations. The conditions for the existence of subharmonic solutions are established. In the end, we provide an example to illustrate our main results.
Partial Chemical Characterization of Immunomodulatory Polysaccharides fromPlantago palmataHook. f. s. Leaves
Authors: Biringanine Gabriel , Ouedraogo Moustapha , Vray Bernard , Samuelsen Anne Berit , Duez Pierre
Published: August 2012

A previous work onPlantago palmatapolysaccharides (PS) attributed immunomodulatory properties of leaves to a polysaccharide fraction (PS50) that stimulated NO and TNF-αproduction by interferon gamma- (IFN-γ-) activated macrophages. The present work aims to elucidate the chemical structure of these immunomodulatory polysaccharides. Size exclusion chromatography showed that the active polymers present an active fraction with a very high molecular weight (about 1200 kDa). These polysaccharides are pectic in nature, with a predominantly unbranched galacturonan domain and with a domain bearing side chains that consist of highly branched arabinan, galactan, and/or arabinogalactan. Comparatively to the well-knownPlantago majorbiologically active PS,Plantago palmataPS50 contained less arabinogalactan-proteins (AGPs) and had a different composition in glucose, galactose, and galacturonic acid. DNA contamination of the polysaccharide was estimated at about 0.04%, a concentration much lower than those reported immunomodulatory in hyaluronic acid preparations (3 to 15%). Therefore, the eventuality of a contaminating DNA-mediated biological activity could be ruled out.
Successful Remove of a Metal Axletree Causing Penile Strangulation in a 19-Year-Old Male by Degloving Operation
Authors: Gan Weidong , Yang Rong , Ji Changwei , Lian Huibo , Guo Hongqian
Published: August 2012

Penile strangulation caused by foreign bodies mostly occurs in adolescents and adult males. When it happens, foreign bodies are often not easy to be removed. Penile strangulation is a rarely described urological emergency, especially in the adolescent population. This paper demonstrates the successful removal of a metal axletree causing penile strangulation in a 19-year-old male with the help of degloving operation.
The Properties of Sprayed Nanostructured P‐Type CuI Films for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Application
Authors: Amalina M. N. , Rasheid N. A. , Rusop M.
Published: August 2012

In our experiments, we provide a new approach for depositing CuI (inorganic compound) thin films using the mister atomizer technique. The CuI solution was sprayed into fine droplets using argon as a carrier gas at different solution concentrations. The solution sprayed was 50 ml for all samples with substrate temperature constant at 50°C during the deposition process. The result shows that the CuI thin film properties strongly depend on its precursor concentration. The structural properties were characterized by XRD with strong (111) orientation shows for all the CuI thin films. FESEM images revealed that all the CuI thin films deposited were uniform with the existence of nanostructured CuI particle. The EDX measurement confirms the existence of Cu:I in the films. The nanostructured CuI will improve the penetration of p‐type between the mesoporous matrix of TiO2 thin film. Promising conductivity value of about 10° S cm−1 was obtained for CuI thin films deposited by this new deposition method. Low transmittance of below 50% was observed for all CuI thin films. The band gap energy obtained here was between 2.82 eV and 2.92 eV which is much smaller than the reported band gap which is 3.1 eV.
Gestational Diabetes Insipidus Associated with HELLP Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Gambito Renela , Chan Michael , Sheta Mohamed , Ramirez-Arao Precious , Gurm Harmeet , Tunkel Allan , Nivera Noel
Published: August 2012

Gestational diabetes insipidus is a rare, but well recognized, complication of pregnancy. It is related to excess vasopressinase enzyme activity which is metabolized in the liver. A high index of suspicion of gestational diabetes insipidus is required in a correct clinical setting especially in the presence of other risk factors such as preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and twin pregnancies. We are presenting a case of gestational diabetes insipidus in a patient with HELLP syndrome. The newborn in this case also had hypernatremia thereby raising possibilities of vasopressinase crossing the placenta.
Endoscopic Aspects of Gastric Syphilis
Authors: Souza Varella Frazão Mariana , Guimarães Vilaça Thiago , Olavo Aragão Andrade Carneiro Fred , Toma Kengo , Eliane Reina-Forster Carolina , Ryoka Baba Elisa , Cheng Spencer , Ferreira de Souza Thiago , Guimarães Hourneaux de Moura Eduardo , Sakai Paulo
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Considered as a rare event, gastric syphilis (GS) is reported as an organic form of involvement. Low incidence of GS emphasizes the importance of histopathological analysis.Objective. We aim to characterize GS endoscopic aspects in an immunocompetent patient.Case Report. A 23-year-old man presented with epigastric pain associated with nausea, anorexia, generalized malaise and 11 kg weight loss that started 1 month prior to his clinical consultation. Physical examination was normal except for mild abdominal tenderness in epigastrium. Endoscopy observed diminished gastric expandability and diffuse mucosal lesions, from cardia to pylorus. Gastric mucosa was thickened, friable, with nodular aspect, and associated with ulcers lesions. Gastric biopsies were performed, and histopathological analysis resulted in dense inflammatory infiltration rich in plasmocytes. Syphilis serologies were positive for VDRL andTreponema pallidumreagents. Immunohistochemical tests were positive forTreponema pallidumand CD138. The patient was treated with penicillin, leading to resolution of his clinical complaints and endoscopic findings.Conclusion. Diagnosis suspicion of GS is important in view of its nonspecific presentation. Patients with gastric symptoms that mimic neoplastic disease should be investigated thoroughly based on the fact that clinical, endoscopic, and histological findings can easily be mistaken for lymphoma or plastic linitis.
Bilateral True Giant Aneurysm of the Profunda Femoral Artery: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Robaldo Alessandro , Maselli Mauro , Maggio Daniele
Published: August 2012

We report a rare case of a bilateral true giant aneurysm of the profunda femoral artery aneurysms (PFAAs) in a 80-year-old man with a previous history of “open” abdominal aortic surgery and small bilateral popliteal artery aneurysm. In the English Literature only seven previously cases of true bilateral PFAAs are reported. Due to its location, this lesion may require surgical intervention and removal. The presentation, the diagnostic evaluation, and the surgical management of the aneurysm are discussed.
Integrated Polypyrrole Flexible Conductors for Biochips and MEMS Applications
Authors: Ofek Almog Rakefet , Ben-Yoav Hadar , Sverdlov Yelena , Shmilovich Tsvi , Krylov Slava , Shacham-Diamand Yosi
Published: August 2012

Integrated polypyrrole, a conductive polymer, interconnects on polymeric substrates were microfabricated for flexible sensors and actuators applications. It allows manufacturing of moving polymeric microcomponents suitable, for example, for micro-optical-electromechanical (MOEMS) systems or implanted sensors. This generic technology allows producing “all polymer” components where the polymers serve as both the structural and the actuating materials. In this paper we present two possible novel architectures that integrate polypyrrole conductors with other structural polymers: (a) polypyrrole embedded into flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix forming high aspect ratio electrodes and (b) polypyrrole deposited on planar structures. Self-aligned polypyrrole electropolymerization was developed and demonstrated for conducting polymer lines on either gold or copper seed layers. The electropolymerization process, using cyclic voltammetry from an electrolyte containing the monomer, is described, as well as the devices’ characteristics. Finally, we discuss the effect of integrating conducting polymers with metal seed layer, thus enhancing the device durability and reliability.
Tensile Mechanical Properties and Strengthening Mechanism of Hybrid Carbon Nanotube and Silicon Carbide Nanoparticle‐Reinforced Magnesium Alloy Composites
Authors: Zhou Xia , Su Depeng , Wu Chengwei , Liu Liming
Published: August 2012

AZ91 magnesium alloy hybrid composites reinforced with different hybrid ratios of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticulates were fabricated by semisolid stirring assisted ultrasonic cavitation. The results showed that grains of the matrix in the AZ91/(CNT + SiC) composites were obviously refined after adding hybrid CNTs and SiC nanoparticles to the AZ91 alloy, and the room‐temperature mechanical properties of AZ91/(CNT + SiC) hybrid composites were improved comparing with the unreinforced AZ91 matrix. In addition, the tensile mechanical properties of the AZ91 alloy‐based hybrid composites were considerably improved at the mass hybrid ratio of 7 : 3 for CNTs and SiC nanoparticles; in particular, the tensile and yield strength were increased, respectively, by about 45 and 55% after gravity permanent mould casting. The reason for an increase in the room‐temperature strength of the hybrid composites should be mainly attributable to the larger hybrid ratio of CNTs and SiC nanoparticles, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch between matrix and hybrid reinforcements, the dispersive strengthening effects (Orowan strengthening), and the grain refining (Hall‐Petch effect).
Osteodifferentiation of Human Preadipocytes Induced by Strontium Released from Hydrogels
Authors: Nardone Valeria , Fabbri Sergio , Marini Francesca , Zonefrati Roberto , Galli Gianna , Carossino Annamaria , Tanini Annalisa , Brandi Maria Luisa
Published: August 2012

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in interactive application principles of biology and engineering for the development of valid biological systems for tissue regeneration, such as for the treatment of bone fractures or skeletal defects. The application of stem cells together with biomaterials releasing bioactive factors promotes the formation of bone tissue by inducing proliferation and/or cell differentiation. In this study, we used a clonal cell line from human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs or preadipocytes), named PA2-E12, to evaluate the effects of strontium (Sr2+) released in the culture medium from an amidated carboxymethylcellulose (CMCA) hydrogel enriched with different Sr2+concentrations on osteodifferentiation. The osteoinductive effect was evaluated through both the expression of alkaline phophatase (ALP) activity and the hydroxyapatite (HA) production during 42 days of induction. Present data have shown that Sr2+released from CMCA promotes the osteodifferentiation induced by an osteogenic medium as shown by the increase of ALP activity at 7 and 14 days and of HA production at 14 days. In conclusion, the use of biomaterials able to releasein situosteoinductive agents, like Sr2+, could represent a new strategy for future applications in bone tissue engineering.
Advanced Pulse Oximetry System for Remote Monitoring and Management
Authors: Pak Ju Geon , Park Kee Hyun
Published: August 2012

Pulse oximetry data such as saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2) and pulse rate are vital signals for early diagnosis of heart disease. Therefore, various pulse oximeters have been developed continuously. However, some of the existing pulse oximeters are not equipped with communication capabilities, and consequently, the continuous monitoring of patient health is restricted. Moreover, even though certain oximeters have been built as network models, they focus on exchanging only pulse oximetry data, and they do not provide sufficient device management functions. In this paper, we propose an advanced pulse oximetry system for remote monitoring and management. The system consists of a networked pulse oximeter and a personal monitoring server. The proposed pulse oximeter measures a patient’s pulse oximetry data and transmits the data to the personal monitoring server. The personal monitoring server then analyzes the received data and displays the results to the patient. Furthermore, for device management purposes, operational errors that occur in the pulse oximeter are reported to the personal monitoring server, and the system configurations of the pulse oximeter, such as thresholds and measurement targets, are modified by the server. We verify that the proposed pulse oximetry system operates efficiently and that it is appropriate for monitoring and managing a pulse oximeter in real time.
Ameloblastic Fibroodontoma of the Mandible with Normal Karyotype in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Manor Esther , Kan Elena , Bodner Lipa
Published: August 2012

Background. Ameloblastic fibroodontoma (AFO) is a rare mixed odontogenic tumor with epithelial and mesenchymal components. AFO presents as a painless swelling in the mandible or maxilla. Radiographs show a well-defined radiolucent area containing various amounts of radiopaque material of irregular size and form. The common treatment is enucleation. It is not an aggressive tumor but recurrence and malignant transformation are possible.Methods. An AFO of the mandible of a 3-year-old female is reported. Panoramic radiograph and CT scan revealed a unilocular lesion with radiopaque center and radiolucent margins. Enucleation was performed with a good outcome.Results. Histopathology was a classic AFO. The karyotype was normal. No recurrence was noted at 12 months.Conclusions. As it is a benign tumor with low recurrence rate, conservative surgery is the treatment of choice. As malignant transformation to ameloblastic fibrosarcoma or ameloblastic odontosarcoma is possible despite the normal karyotype, long-term followup is recommended.
Electromagnetic Fields Effects on the Secondary Structure of Lysozyme and Bioprotective Effectiveness of Trehalose
Authors: Calabrò Emanuele , Magazù Salvatore
Published: August 2012

FTIR spectroscopy was used to investigate the effects of extremely low frequency (50 Hz) electromagnetic field and of microwaves at 900 MHz on the secondary structure of a typical protein, the lysozyme, evaluating the bioprotective effectiveness of trehalose. Lysozyme in D2O solution (60 mg/ml) was exposed to 50 Hz frequency electromagnetic field at 180 μT. The FTIR spectra indicated an increase of CH2 group at 1921 and 1853 cm−1 after 3 h of exposure. Such effect was not observed after the addition of trehalose (150 mg/mL) at the same exposure conditions. Lysozyme dissolved in D2O at the concentration of 100 mg/mL was exposed up to 4 h to 900 MHz mobile phone microwaves at 25 mA/m. A significant increase in intensity of the amide I vibration band in the secondary structure of the protein was observed after 4 h exposure to microwaves. This effect was inhibited by the presence of trehalose at the concentration of 150 mg/mL. Fourier self-deconvolution spectral analysis of lysozyme in D2O solution after exposure to microwaves revealed an increase in intensity of the conformational components of amide I mode, particularly of β-sheet and turn that can be attributed to disorder and unfolding processes of the protein.
Preparation of Mesoporous‐Activated Carbon from Branches of Pomegranate Trees: Optimization on Removal of Methylene Blue Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Salman Jassem M.
Published: August 2012

Mesoporous activated carbon prepared from branches of pomegranate trees (BP) using physiochemical activation (potassium hydroxide treatment and carbon dioxide gasification). Based on the central composite design (CCD), two factor interaction (2FI) and quadratic models were respectively employed to correlate the activated carbon preparation variables. The effects of the activation temperature, activation time, and chemical impregnation ratios on the carbon yield, methylene blue (MB) removal were investigated. From the analysis of variance (ANOVA), the most influential factor on each experimental design response was identified. The optimum conditions for preparing activated carbon from branches of pomegranate trees (BP) were found to be activation temperature of 620.5°C, activation time of 1.4 h, and chemical impregnation ratio of 1.5. The carbon yield was found to be 16% while the removal of methylene blue was found to be 92.5%.
Abstract 101: Analysis of GNAQ mutations in subtypes of malignant melanoma
Authors: Puntervoll Hanne E. , Vuhahula Edda , Molven Anders , Akslen Lars A.
Published: August 2012

Background: The MAP kinase pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cutaneous melanoma, and mutations in BRAF and NRAS are commonly found in subtypes of melanomas as well as in benign nevi. Recently, several publications have reported frequent mutations in codon 209 of GNAQ in blue nevi and uveal melanoma, revealing an alternative path to MAP kinase activation. Aim of study: We wanted to investigate the prevalence of GNAQ mutations in codon 209 in a broad spectre of cutaneous melanoma, previously screened for mutations in BRAF, NRAS and EGFR. Methods: 75 benign and malignant tumors of different subgroups were collected at the Department of Pathology, the Gade Institute, Haukeland University Hospital, including: Spitz nevi, superficial spreading melanoma, superficial spreading melanoma in situ, lentigo malignant melanoma, nodular melanoma, metastases from nodular melanoma and uveal melanoma. Additionally, 14 acral African melanomas were collected at the Department of Pathology, Muhimbili University college of Health Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Tumor tissue was manually dissected from formalin fixated paraffin-embedded sections, before GNAQ exon 5 was screened for mutations in codon 209 by direct Sanger sequencing. Further sample collection and analysis are ongoing. Results: The sequence analysis detected mutations in codon 209 in all five uveal melanomas tested (four harbored a Q209L mutation, and one had a Q209P mutation). However no mutations were found in any of the other subtypes of malignant melanoma. Conclusion: Our study shows that there appears to be a general lack of GNAQ mutations in cutaneous melanoma. This confirms that there may be different routes to MAP kinase activation in malignant melanoma as suggested by other studies.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 101. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-101