bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Topical Local Anesthetics on Thermal Pain Sensitivity in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Rodrigues Anthony , King Christopher D. , Wong Fong , Riley Joseph L. , Schmidt Siegfried , Mauderli Andre P.
Published: February 2012

Generalized hypersensitivity that extends into somatic areas is common in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The sensitized state, particularly assessed by experimental methods, is known to persist even during remissions of clinical pain. It was hypothesized that disease-related nociceptive activity in the gut maintains a systemic-sensitized state. The present study evaluated responses to prolonged thermal stimuli maintained at constant temperature or constant pain intensity during stimulation. The effect of topically applied rectal lidocaine on heat sensitivity was also evaluated. The question is whether silencing potential intestinal neural activity (which may not always lead to a conscious pain experience) with lidocaine attenuates sensitization of somatic areas. Tests were also performed where lidocaine was applied orally to control for systemic or placebo effects of the drug. The IBS subjects exhibited a greater sensitivity to somatic heat stimuli compared to controls; however, lidocaine had no discernible effect on sensitization in this sample of IBS patients, where most of the individuals did not have clinical pain on the day of testing.
On the Stability of Some Discrete Fractional Nonautonomous Systems
Authors: Jarad Fahd , Abdeljawad Thabet , Baleanu Dumitru , Biçen Kübra
Published: February 2012

Using the Lyapunov direct method, the stability of
discrete nonautonomous systems within the frame of the Caputo fractional
difference is studied. The conditions for uniform stability, uniform
asymptotic stability, and uniform global stability are discussed.
The Movement Imagery Questionnaire-Revised, Second Edition (MIQ-RS) Is a Reliable and Valid Tool for Evaluating Motor Imagery in Stroke Populations
Authors: Butler Andrew J. , Cazeaux Jennifer , Fidler Anna , Jansen Jessica , Lefkove Nehama , Gregg Melanie , Hall Craig , Easley Kirk A. , Shenvi Neeta , Wolf Steven L.
Published: February 2012

Mental imagery can improve motor performance in stroke populations when combined with physical therapy. Valid and reliable instruments to evaluate the imagery ability of stroke survivors are needed to maximize the benefits of mental imagery therapy. The purposes of this study were to: examine and compare the test-retest intra-rate reliability of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-Revised, Second Edition (MIQ-RS) in stroke survivors and able-bodied controls, examine internal consistency of the visual and kinesthetic items of the MIQ-RS, determine if the MIQ-RS includes both the visual and kinesthetic dimensions of mental imagery, correlate impairment and motor imagery scores, and investigate the criterion validity of the MIQ-RS in stroke survivors by comparing the results to the KVIQ-10. Test-retest analysis indicated good levels of reliability (ICC range: .83–.99) and internal consistency (Cronbachα: .95–.98) of the visual and kinesthetic subscales in both groups. The two-factor structure of the MIQ-RS was supported by factor analysis, with the visual and kinesthetic components accounting for 88.6% and 83.4% of the total variance in the able-bodied and stroke groups, respectively. The MIQ-RS is a valid and reliable instrument in the stroke population examined and able-bodied populations and therefore useful as an outcome measure for motor imagery ability.
Successful Treatment of Posttransplant EBV-Associated Lymphoma and Plasmacytoma Solely Localized to the CNS
Authors: Hansen Per Boye , Nielsen Signe Ledou
Published: February 2012

Two patients with diabetic nephropathy were diagnosed with primary central nervous system posttransplantEpstein-Barr-virus-associated lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) 3 years after renal transplantation. The histological diagnoses of the isolated brain tumors were diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and plasmacytoma. Considerable co-morbidity precluded intensive chemotherapy. The first patient with lymphoid CD20+ PTLD had a partial resection of her tumor performed. She was treated with 4 weekly doses of rituximab, ganciclovir and prednisolone; the posttransplant immune suppression (tacrolimus) was reduced. After 4 weeks of treatment a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated complete regression of the CNS lesion. The patient continues to receive rituximab (every second month), valgangciclovir and low-dose prednisolone. Twenty-two months after initiation of therapy, she is still in complete remission. The second patient was only treated with craniospinal irradiation involving the medulla to the second cervical vertebra and valgangciclovir. Moreover, the posttransplant immune suppression was reduced. A new MRI two months after initiation of therapy showed a complete regression of the lesions in the CNS; this was again demonstrated by a MRI after 19 months. These 2 cases illustrate interesting alternative treatments of PTLD. To our knowledge, an EBV-associated PTLD of plasmacytic origin isolated to the CNS has never been described before.
Effect of Plant Characteristics and Within-Plant Distribution of Prey on Colonization Efficiency ofCryptolaemus montrouzieri(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) Adults
Authors: Adedipe Folukemi , Park Yong-Lak
Published: February 2012

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) has been widely used in classical and inundative biological control of mealybugs, including the long-tailed mealybug,Pseudococcus longispinus(Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae). This study was conducted to investigate colonization and establishment efficiency ofC. montrouzierito manageP. longispinuson three different ornamental plant species (Ficus elastica, Lilium longiflorum, andDieffenbachia seguine). Within-plant distribution pattern ofP. longispinusand the colonization ecology of adultC. montrouzieriwere investigated. Significantly moreP. longispinuswere found on the upper parts of the plants regardless of plant species, andC. montrouzieriadults discoveredP. longispinussignificantly faster when they were released on the top of the plants than on the bottom. Choice tests revealed thatC. montrouzieriadults preferred smallerP. longispinusnymphs. The implications for utilization ofC. montrouzierifor biological control of mealybugs on various ornamental plants are discussed.
Multigeneration Inheritance through Fertile XX Carriers of anNR0B1(DAX1) Locus Duplication in a Kindred of Females with Isolated XY Gonadal Dysgenesis
Authors: Barbaro Michela , Cook Jackie , Lagerstedt-Robinson Kristina , Wedell Anna
Published: February 2012

A 160 kb minimal common region in Xp21 has been determined as the cause of XY gonadal dysgenesis, if duplicated. The region contains theMAGEBgenes and theNR0B1gene; this is the candidate for gonadal dysgenesis if overexpressed. Most patients present gonadal dysgenesis within a more complex phenotype. However, few independent cases have recently been described presenting with isolated XY gonadal dysgenesis caused by relatively smallNR0B1locus duplications. We have identified anotherNR0B1duplication in two sisters with isolated XY gonadal dysgenesis with an X-linked inheritance pattern. We performed X-inactivation studies in three fertile female carriers of three different smallNR0B1locus duplications identified by our group. The carrier mothers did not show obvious skewing of X-chromosome inactivation, suggesting thatNR0B1overexpression does not impair ovarian function. We furthermore emphasize the importance to investigate theNR0B1locus also in patients with isolated XY gonadal dysgenesis.
A New Approach of In Vivo Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering Using the Epigastric Artery as Central Core Vessel of a 3-Dimensional Construct
Authors: Dunda Sebastian E. , Schriever T. , Rosen C. , Opländer C. , Tolba R. H. , Diamantouros S. , Jockenhoevel S. , Pallua N.
Published: February 2012

The creation of musculoskeletal tissue represents an alternative for the replacement of soft tissue in reconstructive surgery. However, most of the approaches of creating artificial tissue have their limitations in the size as the maximally obtainable dimension of bioartificial tissue (BAT) is limited due to the lack of supporting vessels within the 3-dimensional construct. The seeded myoblasts require high amounts of perfusion, oxygen, and nutrients to survive. To achieve this, we developed a 3-dimensional scaffold which features the epigastric artery as macroscopic core vessel inside the BAT in a rat model (perfused group, ) and a control group () without the epigastric vessels and, therefore, without perfusion. The in vivo monitoring of the transplanted myoblasts was assessed by bioluminescence imaging and showed both the viability of the epigastric artery within the 3-dimensional construct and again that cell survival in vivo is highly depending on the blood supply with the beginning of capillarization within the BAT seven days after transplantation in the perfused group. However, further studies focussing on the matrix improvement will be necessary to create a transplantable BAT with the epigastric artery as anastomosable vessel.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Ampicillin: Nonlinear Modeling, Kinetics Estimation, and Adaptive Control
Authors: Roman Monica , Selişteanu Dan
Published: February 2012

Nowadays, the use of advanced control strategies in biotechnology is quite low. A main reason is the lack of quality of the data, and the fact that more sophisticated control strategies must be based on a model of the dynamics of bioprocesses. The nonlinearity of the bioprocesses and the absence of cheap and reliable instrumentation require an enhanced modeling effort and identification strategies for the kinetics. The present work approaches modeling and control strategies for the enzymatic synthesis of ampicillin that is carried out inside a fed-batch bioreactor. First, a nonlinear dynamical model of this bioprocess is obtained by using a novel modeling procedure for biotechnology: the bond graph methodology. Second, a high gain observer is designed for the estimation of the imprecisely known kinetics of the synthesis process. Third, by combining an exact linearizing control law with the on-line estimation kinetics algorithm, a nonlinear adaptive control law is designed. The case study discussed shows that a nonlinear feedback control strategy applied to the ampicillin synthesis bioprocess can cope with disturbances, noisy measurements, and parametric uncertainties. Numerical simulations performed with MATLAB environment are included in order to test the behavior and the performances of the proposed estimation and control strategies.
Case Study: Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis in the Femoral Diaphysis of a Young Female
Authors: Quon Jeffrey S. , Dzus Anne K. , Leswick David A.
Published: February 2012

Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is relatively uncommon. Even though the name suggests it is the result of infection, this is not likely the case. Instead it is more likely the result of genetic, autoimmune, or autoinflammatory causes. Although CRMO has a benign course and responds well to anti-inflammatory medications, it can have a very aggressive clinical and imaging presentation overlapping with infectious osteomyelitis and malignancy. Therefore, radiologists and clinicians need to be aware of its clinical and imaging presentation to avoid morbidity associated with more aggressive treatment. We present the case of a ten-year-old female with CRMO as a solitary expansile-mixed lytic and sclerotic lesion in the distal femoral diaphysis. The diaphyseal location and mixed lytic and sclerotic appearance are less common and have an aggressive imaging appearance. We also review the pathophysiology, imaging findings, and therapeutic approach to this uncommon but clinically important condition.
An Output-Recurrent-Neural-Network-Based Iterative Learning Control for Unknown Nonlinear Dynamic Plants
Authors: Wang Ying-Chung , Chien Chiang-Ju
Published: February 2012

We present a design method for iterative learning control system by using an output recurrent neural network (ORNN). Two ORNNs are employed to design the learning control structure. The first ORNN, which is called the output recurrent neural controller (ORNC), is used as an iterative learning controller to achieve the learning control objective. To guarantee the convergence of learning error, some information of plant sensitivity is required to design a suitable adaptive law for the ORNC. Hence, a second ORNN, which is called the output recurrent neural identifier (ORNI), is used as an identifier to provide the required information. All the weights of ORNC and ORNI will be tuned during the control iteration and identification process, respectively, in order to achieve a desired learning performance. The adaptive laws for the weights of ORNC and ORNI and the analysis of learning performances are determined via a Lyapunov like analysis. It is shown that the identification error will asymptotically converge to zero and repetitive output tracking error will asymptotically converge to zero except the initial resetting error.
Hybrid Iterative Scheme by a Relaxed Extragradient Method for Equilibrium Problems, a General System of Variational Inequalities and Fixed‐Point Problems of a Countable Family of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Dong Qiao-Li , Guo Yan-Ni , Su Fang
Published: February 2012

Based on the relaxed extragradient method and viscosity method, we introduce a new iterative method for finding a common element of solution of equilibrium problems, the solution set of a general system of variational inequalities, and the set of fixed points of a countable family of nonexpansive mappings in a real Hilbert space. Furthermore, we prove the strong convergence theorem of the studied iterative method. The results of this paper extend and improve the results of Ceng et al., (2008), W. Kumam and P. Kumam, (2009), Yao et al., (2010) and many others.
Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Management of Patients with Radioiodine Nonresponsive Disease
Authors: Busaidy Naifa Lamki , Cabanillas Maria E.
Published: February 2012

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (papillary and follicular) has a favorable prognosis with an 85% 10-year survival. The patients that recur often require surgery and further radioactive iodine to render them disease-free. Five percent of thyroid cancer patients, however, will eventually succumb to their disease. Metastatic thyroid cancer is treated with radioactive iodine if the metastases are radioiodine avid. Cytotoxic chemotherapies for advanced or metastatic noniodine avid thyroid cancers show no prolonged responses and in general have fallen out of favor. Novel targeted therapies have recently been discovered that have given rise to clinical trials for thyroid cancer. Newer aberrations in molecular pathways and oncogenic mutations in thyroid cancer together with the role of angiogenesis in tumor growth have been central to these discoveries. This paper will focus on the management and treatment of metastatic differentiated thyroid cancers that do not take up radioactive iodine.
Antibacterial Activities of Selected Cameroonian Plants and Their Synergistic Effects with Antibiotics against Bacteria Expressing MDR Phenotypes
Authors: Lacmata Stephen T. , Kuete Victor , Dzoyem Jean P. , Tankeo Simplice B. , Teke Gerald Ngo , Kuiate Jules R. , Pages Jean-Marie
Published: February 2012

The present work was designed to assess the antibacterial properties of the methanol extracts of some Cameroonian medicinal plants and the effect of their associations with currently used antibiotics on multidrug resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria overexpressing active efflux pumps. The antibacterial activities of twelve methanol extracts of medicinal plants were evaluated using broth microdilution. The results of this test showed that three extractsGarcinia lucidawith the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) varying from 128 to 512 μg/mL,Garcinia kola(MIC of 256 to 1024 μg/mL), andPicralima nitida(MIC of 128 to 1024 μg/mL) were active on all the twenty-nine studied bacteria including MDR phenotypes. The association of phenylalanine arginineβ-naphthylamide (PAβN or efflux pumps inhibitor) to different extracts did not modify their activities. At the concentration of MIC/2 and MIC/5, the extracts ofP. nitidaandG. kolaimproved the antibacterial activities of some commonly used antibiotics suggesting their synergistic effects with the tested antibiotics. The results of this study suggest that the tested plant extracts and mostly those fromP. nitida,G. lucidaandG. kolacould be used alone or in association with common antibiotics in the fight of bacterial infections involving MDR strains.
Endoscopic Evaluation and Management of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients with Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Meyer Marty M. , Young Scott D. , Sun Benjamin , Azzouz Maher , Firstenberg Michael S.
Published: February 2012

The optimal diagnostic approach and yield for gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in patients with ventricular assist devices (VAD) are unknown. We explored the etiology of bleeding and yield of upper and lower endoscopy, balloon-assisted enteroscopy, and video capsule endoscopy in the evaluation of GIB in patients with VADs.Methods. All VAD patients with overt gastrointestinal bleeding and drop in hematocrit from April 1, 2000 to July 31, 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. The endoscopic evaluation of each episode was recorded. Overall yield of EGD, colonoscopy, balloon-assisted, and video capsule endoscopy were evaluated.Results. Thirty-six bleeding episodes occurred involving 20 patients. The site of GIB was identified in 32/36 episodes (88.9%), and the etiology of bleeding was determined in 30/36 cases (83.3%). Five VAD patients underwent VCE. The VCE exams demonstrated a high yield with 80% of exams identifying the etiology of GIB. Endoscopic intervention was successful in 8/9 attempts. No adverse events were recorded. Two patients required surgical intervention for GIB.Conclusion. Upper, lower, video capsule, and balloon-assisted enteroscopies are safe and demonstrate a high yield in the investigation of gastrointestinal bleeding in VAD patients. Medical centers caring for VAD patients should employ a standardized protocol to optimize endoscopic evaluation and intervention.
The Hepatoprotective Effect of Sodium Nitrite on Cold Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Li Wei , Meng Zihui , Liu Yuliang , Patel Rakesh P. , Lang John D.
Published: February 2012

Liver ischemia-reperfusion injury is a major cause of primary graft non-function or initial function failure post-transplantation. In this study, we examined the effects of sodium nitrite supplementation on liver IRI in either Lactated Ringer's (LR) solution or University of Wisconsin (UW) solution. The syngeneic recipients of liver grafts were also treated with or without nitrite by intra-peritoneal injection. Liver AST and LDH release were significantly reduced in both nitrite-supplemented LR and UW preservation solutions compared to their controls. The protective effect of nitrite was more efficacious with longer cold preservation times. Liver histological examination demonstrated better preserved morphology and architecture with nitrite treatment. Hepatocellular apoptosis was significantly reduced in the nitrite-treated livers compared their controls. Moreover, liver grafts with extended cold preservation time of 12 to 24 hours demonstrated improved liver tissue histology and function post-reperfusion with either the nitrite-supplemented preservation solution or in nitrite-treated recipients. Interestingly, combined treatment of both the liver graft and recipient did not confer protection. Thus, nitrite treatment affords significant protection from cold ischemic and reperfusion injury to donor livers and improves liver graft acute function post-transplantation. The results from this study further support the potential for nitrite therapy to mitigate ischemia-reperfusion injury in solid organ transplantation.
Global Gene Expression Profiling of Human Osteosarcomas Reveals Metastasis-Associated Chemokine Pattern
Authors: Namløs Heidi M. , Kresse Stine H. , Müller Christoph R. , Henriksen Jørn , Holdhus Rita , Sæter Gunnar , Bruland Øyvind S. , Bjerkehagen Bodil , Steen Vidar M. , Myklebost Ola
Published: February 2012

Global gene expression analysis was performed on a panel of 23 osteosarcoma samples of primary and metastatic origin using the Applied Biosystems Gene Expression Array System. When comparing the primary tumours with the metastases, we found a significantly increased expression of genes involved in immunological processes, for example coding for cytokines and chemokines, in the metastatic samples. In addition, a comparison of the gene expression in primary samples from patients with or without metastases demonstrated that patients who later developed metastases had high expression of the chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), similar to the metastatic samples, suggesting that these signal molecules play an important role in promoting metastasis. Increased knowledge of mechanisms and interactions between specified molecular signalling pathways in osteosarcomas could lead to a more rational strategy for development of targeted therapy.
Combustion Synthesis of Fe-Incorporated SnO2Nanoparticles Using Organometallic Precursor Combination
Authors: Barkley Thomas K. , Vastano Jenna E. , Applegate James R. , Bakrania Smitesh D.
Published: February 2012

Synthesis of nanomaterials within flames has been demonstrated as a highly scalable and versatile approach for obtaining a variety of nanoparticles with respect to their chemistry, composition, size, morphology, and dimensionality. Its applicability can be amplified by exploring new material systems and providing further control over the particle characteristics. This study focused on iron-incorporated SnO2nanoparticles generated using an inverse coflow diffusion flame burner that supported a near-stoichiometric methane-air combustion. A liquid organometallic precursor solution of Sn(CH3)4and Fe(CO)5was used to produce 11–14 nm nanocrystalline particles. Synthesized particles were analyzed using TEM, XRD, and XEDS to characterize for size and composition. A flame temperature field was obtained to map particle evolution within the flame. A range of conditions and parameters were studied to specifically generate targeted particles. The study augments related research towards increasing the production potential of combustion synthesis.
Application of the Variational Iteration Method to Strongly Nonlinear q‐Difference Equations
Authors: Liu Hsuan-Ku
Published: February 2012

The theory of approximate solution lacks development in the area of nonlinear q‐difference equations. One of the difficulties in developing a theory of series solutions for the homogeneous equations on time scales is that formulas for multiplication of two q‐polynomials are not easily found. In this paper, the formula for the multiplication of two q‐polynomials is presented. By applying the obtained results, we extend the use of the variational iteration method to nonlinear q‐difference equations. The numerical results reveal that the proposed method is very effective and can be applied to other nonlinear q‐difference equations.
Accurate Modeling and Analysis of Isolation Performance in Multiport Amplifiers
Authors: Aloisio Marinella , Angeletti Piero , D'Addio Salvatore
Published: February 2012

A Multiport Amplifier (MPA) is an implementation of the satellite power amplification section that allows sharing the payload RF power among several beams/ports and guarantees a highly efficient exploitation of the available DC satellite power. This feature is of paramount importance in multiple beam satellite systems where the use of MPAs allows reconfiguring the RF output power among the different service beams in order to handle unexpected traffic unbalances and traffic variations over time. This paper presents Monte Carlo simulations carried out by means of an ESA in-house simulator developed in Matlab environment. The objective of the simulations is to analyse how the MPA performance, in particular in terms of isolation at the MPA output ports, is affected by the amplitude and phase tracking errors of the high power amplifiers within the MPA.
Attraction ofTomicus yunnanensis(Coleoptera: Scolytidae) to Yunnan Pine Logs with and without Periderm or Phloem: An Effective Monitoring Bait
Authors: Lu Rong Chun , Wang Hong Bin , Zhang Zhen , Byers John A. , Jin You Ju , Wen Hai Feng , Shi Wen Jian
Published: February 2012

The Yunnan pine shoot beetle,Tomicus yunnanensisKirkendall and Faccoli (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) is an important pest of Yunnan pine (Pinus yunnanensisFranch) in China. Experiments with host log baits were done to develop a pest monitoring system using host tree kairomone. Five Yunnan pine logs (each 10–15 cm diam. × 30-cm long) in a trap-log bundle were treated by peeling periderm (outer bark) off to expose the phloem, and half of each log was covered with sticky adhesive to capture any attracted adult beetles. Significantly, more beetles were attracted and caught on the periderm-peeled logs (ca 30 beetles/m2log surface/day) than on untreated control logs with adhesive (ca 2.5/m2/day). No significant differences were observed between catches on logs taken from lower or upper halves of Yunnan pines.T. yunnanensisflies mostly during the afternoon according to trap catches throughout the day. Attraction to the periderm-peeled logs decreased considerably when they were peeled further to remove the phloem, indicating phloem volatiles play a role in selection of the host by the beetle. The readily-available log baits appear useful for monitoring pine shoot beetle populations in integrated pest management programs.
Antenatal Bartter Syndrome: A Review
Authors: Bhat Y. Ramesh , Vinayaka G. , Sreelakshmi K.
Published: February 2012

Antenatal Bartter syndrome (ABS) is a rare autosomal recessive renal tubular disorder. The defective chloride transport in the loop of Henle leads to fetal polyuria resulting in severe hydramnios and premature delivery. Early onset, unexplained maternal polyhydramnios often challenges the treating obstetrician. Increasing polyhydramnios without apparent fetal or placental abnormalities should lead to the suspicion of this entity. Biochemical analysis of amniotic fluid is suggested as elevated chloride level is usually diagnostic. Awareness, early recognition, maternal treatment with indomethacin, and amniocentesis allow the pregnancy to continue. Affected neonates are usually born premature, have postnatal polyuria, vomiting, failure to thrive, hypercalciuria, and subsequently nephrocalcinosis. Hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, secondary hyperaldosteronism and hyperreninaemia are other characteristic features. Volume depletion due to excessive salt and water loss on long term stimulates renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system resulting in juxtaglomerular hyperplasia. Clinical features and electrolyte abnormalities may also depend on the subtype of the syndrome. Prenatal diagnosis and timely indomethacin administration prevent electrolyte imbalance, restitute normal growth, and improve activity. In this paper, authors present classification, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, complications, and prognosis of ABS.
Temperature Depended Role ofShigella flexneriInvasion Plasmid on the Interaction withAcanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Saeed Amir , Johansson David , Sandström Gunnar , Abd Hadi
Published: February 2012

Shigella flexneriis a Gram-negative bacterium causing the diarrhoeal disease shigellosis in humans. The virulence genes required for invasion are clustered on a large 220 kb plasmid encoding type three secretion system (TTSS) apparatus and virulence factors such as adhesions and invasion plasmid antigens (Ipa). The bacterium is transmitted by contaminated food, water, or from person to person.Acanthamoebaeare free-living amoebae (FLA) which are found in diverse environments and isolated from various water sources. Different bacteria interact differently with FLA sinceFrancisella tularensis, Vibrio cholerae, Shigella sonnei, andS. dysenteriaeare able to grow insideA. castellanii. In contrast,Pseudomonas aeruginosainduces both necrosis and apoptosis to killA. castellanii. The aim of this study is to examine the role of invasion plasmid ofS. flexnerion the interaction withA. castellaniiat two different temperatures.A. castellaniiin the absence or presence of wild type, IpaB mutant, or plasmid-cured strainS. flexneriwas cultured at30∘C and37∘C and the interaction was analysed by viable count of both bacteria and amoebae, electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and statistical analysis. The outcome of the interaction was depended on the temperature since the growth ofA. castellaniiwas inhibited at30∘C, andA. castellaniiwas killed by invasion plasmid mediated necrosis at37∘C.
Procalcific Phenotypic Drift of Circulating Progenitor Cells in Type 2 Diabetes with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Fadini Gian Paolo , Albiero Mattia , Menegazzo Lisa , Boscaro Elisa , Agostini Carlo , Vigili de Kreutzenberg Saula , Rattazzi Marcello , Avogaro Angelo
Published: February 2012

Diabetes mellitus (DM) alters circulating progenitor cells relevant for the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease (CAD). While endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are reduced, there is no data on procalcific polarization of circulating progenitors, which may contribute to vascular calcification in these patients. In a cohort of 107 subjects with and without DM and CAD, we analyzed the pro-calcific versus endothelial differentiation status of circulating CD34+ progenitor cells. Endothelial commitment was determined by expression of VEGFR-2 (KDR) and pro-calcific polarization by expression of osteocalcin (OC) and bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP). We found that DM patients had significantly higher expression of OC and BAP on circulating CD34+ cells than control subjects, especially in the presence of CAD. In patients with DM and CAD, the ratio of OC/KDR, BAP/KDR, and OC+BAP/KDR was about 3-fold increased than in other groups. EPCs cultured from DM patients with CAD occasionally formed structures highly suggestive of calcified nodules, and the expression of osteogenic markers by EPCs from control subjects was significantly increased in response to the toll-like receptor agonist LPS. In conclusion, circulating progenitor cells of diabetic patients show a phenotypic drift toward a pro-calcific phenotype that may be driven by inflammatory signals.
Postoperative Radiotherapy after Radical Prostatectomy: Indications and Open Questions
Authors: Ghadjar Pirus , Zwahlen Daniel , Aebersold Daniel M. , Zimmermann F.
Published: February 2012

Biochemical relapse after radical prostatectomy occurs in approximately 15–40% of patients within 5 years. Postoperative radiotherapy is the only curative treatment for these patients. After radical prostatectomy, two different strategies can be offered, adjuvant or salvage radiotherapy. Adjuvant radiotherapy is defined as treatment given directly after surgery in the presence of risk factors (R1 resection, pT3) before biochemical relapse occurs. It consists of 60–64 Gy and was shown to increase biochemical relapse-free survival in three randomized controlled trials and to increase overall survival after a median followup of 12.7 years in one of these trials. Salvage radiotherapy, on the other hand, is given upon biochemical relapse and is the preferred option, by many centers as it does not include patients who might be cured by surgery alone. As described in only retrospective studies the dose for salvage radiotherapy ranges from 64 to 72 Gy and is usually dependent on the absence or presence of macroscopic recurrence. Randomized trials are currently investigating the role of adjuvant and salvage radiotherapy. Patients with biochemical relapse after prostatectomy should at the earliest sign of relapse be referred to salvage radiotherapy and should preferably be treated within a clinical trial.
Rescue Therapy forHelicobacter pyloriInfection 2012
Authors: Gisbert Javier P.
Published: February 2012

Helicobacter pyloriinfection is the main cause of gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcer disease, and gastric cancer. After 30 years of experience inH. pyloritreatment, however, the ideal regimen to treat this infection has still to be found. Nowadays, apart from having to know well first-line eradication regimens, we must also be prepared to face treatment failures. In designing a treatment strategy, we should not only focus on the results of primary therapy alone but also on the final—overall—eradication rate. The choice of a “rescue” treatment depends on which treatment is used initially. If a first-line clarithromycin-based regimen was used, a second-line metronidazole-based treatment (quadruple therapy) may be used afterwards, and then a levofloxacin-based combination would be a third-line “rescue” option. Alternatively, it has recently been suggested that levofloxacin-based “rescue” therapy constitutes an encouraging 2nd-line strategy, representing an alternative to quadruple therapy in patients with previous PPI-clarithromycin-amoxicillin failure, with the advantage of efficacy, simplicity and safety. In this case, quadruple regimen may be reserved as a 3rd-line “rescue” option. Even after two consecutive failures, several studies have demonstrated thatH. pylorieradication can finally be achieved in almost all patients if several “rescue” therapies are consecutively given.
Biomarkers for EGFR-Antagonist Response: In the Genes and on the Genes!
Authors: Easwaran Hariharan , Baylin Stephen B.
Published: February 2012

Patients with non–small cell lung carcinoma containing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–activating mutations benefit from EGFR-antagonist therapy. EGFR-antagonist sensitivity is also correlated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition, which Walter and colleagues show to be marked by DNA-methylation changes. If validated, these markers could help identify patients with wild-type EGFR who will benefit from EGFR therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 18(8); 2121–3. ©2012 AACR.
Influence of Mindfulness Practice on Cortisol and Sleep in Long-Term and Short-Term Meditators
Authors: Brand Serge , Holsboer-Trachsler Edith , Naranjo José Raúl , Schmidt Stefan
Published: February 2012

Background: There is growing scientific interest in assessing the biological correlates of non-pharmacological interventions such as mindfulness. Examinations of the beneficial effects of mindfulness on hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical system activity (HPA SA) and sleep are sparse. The aim of the present study was to explore the impact of long- and short-term meditation experience on HPA SA and sleep. Method: There were 20 participants, 9 of whom had long-term experience in meditation (mean = 264 months) and 11 novices. Novices underwent an 8-week course in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and cortisol samples were taken in the lab at the beginning and end of the course. To assess the cortisol awakening response, 4 morning cortisol samples were collected. Sleep and mindfulness were assessed by self-rating questionnaires. Results: Among participants with long-term meditation experience, morning cortisol decreased with length of experience. For novices, after an 8-week introductory MBSR course, morning cortisol levels had decreased, while both sleep and self-attribution of mindfulness significantly improved. Cortisol levels did not, however, change between the beginning and end of individual MBSR sessions. Conclusions: The pattern of results lends support to the view that MBSR/meditation has a favorable influence both on biomarkers of stress regulation, such as cortisol secretion, and on sleep.
Replication and Extension of the Simplified Modified Rankin Scale in 150 Chinese Stroke Patients
Authors: Yuan Jun-Liang , Bruno Askiel , Li Tao , Li Shu-Juan , Zhang Xiao-Dan , Li Hai-Ying , Jia Ke , Qin Wei , Chen Andrew C.N. , Hu Wen-Li
Published: February 2012

Background: Recently, a simplified modified Rankin Scale (mRS) questionnaire (smRSq) showed good reliability but has not been tested for its validity by its original creators. Our study aimed to test its reliability and validity in Chinese stroke patients. Methods: Randomly chosen paired raters scored the smRSq, the conventional mRS, and the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) face-to-face in 150 hospitalized stroke patients. Inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity were assessed for this translated questionnaire. Results: For inter-rater reliability of the smRSq, the overall agreement among the raters was 84%, the ĸ was 0.79 (95% CI 0.72–0.87), and the ĸw was 0.91 (95% CI 0.88–0.94). For inter-rater reliability of the mRS, the overall agreement among the raters was 81%, the ĸ was 0.75 (95% CI 0.67–0.83), and the ĸw was 0.88 (95% CI 0.84–0.92). The agreement between the mRS and smRSq was 71%, ĸ = 0.63 (95% CI 0.54–0.71), and ĸw = 0.83 (95% CI 0.79–0.88). The correlation between the NIHSS and the smRSq (concurrent validity) was moderate (Spearman’s correlation coefficient 0.70, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our results confirm the value of the smRSq in the assessment of stroke functional outcome in China. As this is a novel stroke tool, further validations are needed.
Low Diastolic Blood Pressure Is Associated with the Progression of Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Okumura Yoshihiko , Yuki Kenya , Tsubota Kazuo
Published: February 2012

Aims: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between blood pressure (BP) and visual field defect progression in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). Methods: The subjects were 35 consecutive patients with NTG who were admitted to Keio University Hospital for 24-hour intraocular pressure evaluation; all subjects underwent 6 or more visual field tests in either eye and were followed up for more than 5 years. Systolic and diastolic BPs were measured at 9.00 h. Subjects with negative regression lines and p values of less than 0.05 were classified as progressive; all others were defined as stable. Systolic BP, diastolic BP, and ocular perfusion pressure were compared between the 2 groups. Results: Twelve subjects showed progression in glaucomatous visual field defects (age 55.1 ± 15.1 years). Twenty-three subjects showed no progression (age 57.2 ± 10.9 years). Diastolic BP (stable group: 77.0 ± 12.1 mm Hg; progressive group: 67.7 ± 9.7 mm Hg; p = 0.03) was significantly lower in the progressive group than in the stable group. Multivariable analysis revealed that low diastolic BP is a significant risk factor for progression (OR 0.90; 95% CI 0.82–0.99). Conclusions: Low diastolic BP was associated with glaucomatous visual field progression in subjects with NTG.
Using the Contralateral Reverse Less Invasive Plating System for Subtrochanteric Femur Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Ouyang Yuanming , Wang Yongping , Fan Cunyi , Liu Zhongtang , Liu Sheng , Li Fenfen
Published: February 2012

Objective: In this retrospective study, we evaluated the efficacy of the reverse less invasive plating system (LISS) in the management of subtrochanteric fractures (STF) in elderly patients that are expected to be difficult to nail. Subjects and Methods: Fifty-five patients with STF were treated from April 2005 to December 2007. Of these, 26 (16 females and 10 males, age >65 years, average 79.8 ± 3) had nonpathologic fractures that were internally fixed with a LISS device. The average follow-up period was 24 months (range 15–30). The main outcome measures evaluated were pain, union, varus deformity and implant failure. Radiographic and clinical evidence of functional outcome and complications were also evaluated. Results: Mean perioperative blood loss was 120.5 ± 12 ml (range 65–285), and mean postoperative hospital stay was 7.8 ± 2 days (range 4–14). Using the reverse LISS plates led to complete union of STF in all of the 26 elderly patients without additional procedures. Conclusion: Due to advantages like high union rate, early postoperative mobilization and short operation time, the reverse LISS device offers an alternative management of STF in elderly patients unsuitable for nailing procedures.
Smoking Is Not a Risk Factor for Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in an Australian Population
Authors: Pamphlett Roger , Cochran Ward Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

Background: Controversy persists as to whether smoking is a risk factor for sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS), the most common form of sporadic motor neuron disease (SMND). We therefore undertook a large case-control study of smoking and SALS in Australia. Methods: Cases and controls were recruited Australia-wide over a 10-year period. SALS and the other subgroups of SMND were categorised on the basis of neurologists’ reports. Controls were partners or friends of SMND patients or community volunteers. Individuals filled in a questionnaire regarding smoking habits. A total of 809 patients with SMND (631 with SALS) and 779 controls were included in the study. SALS males and females were analysed separately. Results: No differences between SALS patients and control groups were found with regard to (1) the odds ratios of ever-smokers, ex-smokers or current smokers compared to never-smokers, (2) the means of numbers of cigarettes per day, years of smoking, pack years or age smoking began or (3) the proportions of their parents who had ever smoked. The proportion of ever-smokers and mean pack years did not differ between the clinical subgroups of SMND or between different sites of SALS onset. Partner smoking did not increase the risk of SMND. Conclusion: This Australian case-control study does not support a link between cigarette smoking and any form of SMND.
Liver Proteome Changes Induced by a Short-Term High-Fat Sucrose Diet in Wistar Rats
Authors: Bondia-Pons Isabel , Boqué Noemí , Paternain Laura , Santamaría Enrique , Fernández Joaquín , Campión Javier , Milagro Fermín , Corrales Fernando , Martínez J. Alfredo
Published: February 2012

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to gain insight into those proteins that might be involved in the early stages of liver fat accumulation as a consequence of a different fat versus simple sugar dietary intake. Methods: Forty-five male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into four dietary groups: a starch-rich control diet (CD; n = 10), a high-fat diet (n = 12), a high-sucrose diet (n = 11), and a high-fat sucrose diet (HFSD; n = 12) for 5 weeks. A comparative analysis by 2D-DIGE and LC-ESI-MS/MS was performed to characterize the liver protein expression profiles due to the three obesogenic diets. Results: Ten out of 17 proteins whose expression levels were altered by >1.25-fold were identified. Four proteins (Hspa8, Hspa9, Ca3, and Cat) were differentially expressed after the HFSD period compared to CD. The heat shock proteins (Hspa8 and Hspa9) resulted significantly downregulated in liver from rats fed HFSD versus CD (p < 0.05). The results were confirmed by Western blot. Conclusions: This descriptive study might be useful for further studies aiming at understanding the mechanisms by which diets rich in both fat and sugar affect the initiation of hepatic steatosis.
Hydrocarbons and Kidney Damage: Potential Use of Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin and Sister Chromatide Exchange
Authors: Lacquaniti Antonio , Fenga Concettina , Venuti Vincenzo Alessio , Pernice Lucia , Catanzariti Saverio , Sirna Giuseppe , Pernice Francesco , Arena Adriana , Lupica Rosaria , Abbate Carmelo , Buemi Michele
Published: February 2012

Background: Millions of workers are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and it is known that the kidney is a target for toxic chemicals. We have evaluated neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) as a potential marker of tubular damage and have used it, with sister chromatid exchange (SCE) analysis, to evaluate carcinogenic risk in a group of workers from an oil refinery. Methods: NGAL and SCE analysis were evaluated in 160 subjects. Exposed subjects were divided into three groups, according to levels of exposure to PAHs: 40 highly exposed workmen (WM), 40 less exposed office workers (OW), and 40 subjects (GE) living in Gela. The control group included 40 healthy subjects (HS). Results: WM, OW and GE showed higher NGAL levels than HS. WM had higher levels of NGAL than the OW and GE groups; in ROC analysis, serum NGAL showed a good diagnostic profile (sensitivity 87.5%; specificity 100.0%), as did urinary NGAL (sensitivity 90.0%; specificity 92.5%). Moreover, regarding SCE analysis, WM showed higher values than HS. A direct correlation between SCE and serum NGAL was found in WM, the group most exposed to PAHs. Conclusion: The high values of NGAL are an expression of damage to the renal tubule determined by exposure to PAHs. Compared to the other groups studied, chromosomal aberrations – expressed as SCE – were increased in WM, the group most exposed to PAHs, indicating genotoxic damage. NGAL may also play a role in the process of carcinogenesis having a direct correlation with the number of SCEs.
Kisspeptin Restores Pulsatile LH Secretion in Patients with Neurokinin B Signaling Deficiencies: Physiological, Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Young Jacques , George Jyothis T. , Tello Javier A. , Francou Bruno , Bouligand Jerome , Guiochon-Mantel Anne , Brailly-Tabard Sylvie , Anderson Richard A. , Millar Robert P.
Published: February 2012

Pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is crucial to normal reproductive function and abnormalities in pulse frequency give rise to reproductive dysfunction. Kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB), neuropeptides secreted by the same neuronal population in the ventral hypothalamus, have emerged recently as critical central regulators of GnRH and thus gonadotropin secretion. Patients with mutations resulting in loss of signaling by either of these neuroendocrine peptides fail to advance through puberty but the mechanisms mediating this remain unresolved. We report here that continuous kisspeptin infusion restores gonadotropin pulsatility in patients with loss-of-function mutations in NKB (TAC3) or its receptor (TAC3R), indicating that kisspeptin on its own is sufficient to stimulate pulsatile GnRH secretion. Moreover, our findings suggest that NKB action is proximal to kisspeptin in the reproductive neuroendocrine cascade regulating GnRH secretion, and may act as an autocrine modulator of kisspeptin secretion. The ability of continuous kisspeptin infusion to induce pulsatile gonadotropin secretion further indicates that GnRH neurons are able to set up pulsatile secretion in the absence of pulsatile exogenous kisspeptin.