bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The stomatological use of stones cited in the
Kitab al-tasrif
treatise (Abulcasis, 1000 CE)
Authors: Carrasco Joaquín , Liñán María
Published: December 2012

The search for remedies to treat dental disease is as old as mankind; such is the importance of the stomatognathic system (mouth, jaws, teeth and related structures) in the evolution of man and society. This paper concentrates on the
Kitab al-tasrif
, a medical treatise completed in 1000 CE by the famous Arab physician, surgeon and pharmacologist Abulcasis (
Abu al-Qasim al Zahrawi
; 936–1013), from Córdoba (Andalusia, southern Spain). Volume (
Maqal
) XXI of this 30-volume-long work, is dedicated to mineral panaceas for diseases of the mouth and teeth. The remedies detailed by Abulcasis are compared with those in Dioscorides' much earlier
Materia Medica
(first century CE), the later
Hortus sanitatis
(1496) by Johannes de Cuba and recent pharmacopoeias to trace and evaluate the evolutionary path of mineral-containing drugs and dental compounds, and to account for the survival of many of them in therapeutic compounds. Although effective, some of the old mineral remedies have a narrow therapeutic range and have no place in current pharmacology; however, many of them are still useful as astringents, haemostatics, antiseptics, teeth whiteners, remineralizers or caustics.
Neural control of muscle force: indications from a simulation model
Authors: Contessa Paola , Luca Carlo J. De
Published: December 2012

We developed a model to investigate the influence of the muscle force twitch on the simulated firing behavior of motoneurons and muscle force production during voluntary isometric contractions. The input consists of an excitatory signal common to all the motor units in the pool of a muscle, consistent with the “common drive” property. Motor units respond with a hierarchically structured firing behavior wherein at any time and force, firing rates are inversely proportional to recruitment threshold, as described by the “onion skin” property. Time- and force-dependent changes in muscle force production are introduced by varying the motor unit force twitches as a function of time or by varying the number of active motor units. A force feedback adjusts the input excitation, maintaining the simulated force at a target level. The simulations replicate motor unit behavior characteristics similar to those reported in previous empirical studies of sustained contractions: 1) the initial decrease and subsequent increase of firing rates, 2) the derecruitment and recruitment of motor units throughout sustained contractions, and 3) the continual increase in the force fluctuation caused by the progressive recruitment of larger motor units. The model cautions the use of motor unit behavior at recruitment and derecruitment without consideration of changes in the muscle force generation capacity. It describes an alternative mechanism for the reserve capacity of motor units to generate extraordinary force. It supports the hypothesis that the control of motoneurons remains invariant during force-varying and sustained isometric contractions.
Acute Acalculous Cholecystitis Induced by Acute Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Mohammed Riyadh Ali , Ghadban Wisam , Mohammed Osama
Published: December 2012

During the course of acute viral hepatitis, some functional and anatomical changes to the gallbladder can occur. Acute acalculous cholecystitis (ACC) is a rare complication of acute hepatitis B virus infection; only few cases are reported as ACC associated with acute hepatitis B virus infection. ACC cases are self-limiting, while other limited cases can progress to a gangrenous state, perforation, and even death. We present a 27-year-old female case diagnosed to have acute acalculous cholecystitis and associated with acute hepatitis B virus infection, and she recovered within one week of her presentation without complication or surgical intervention.
Zinc Transporters, Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Utility: Implications for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Myers Stephen A. , Nield Alex , Myers Mark
Published: December 2012

Zinc is an essential trace element that plays a vital role in maintaining many biological processes and cellular homeostasis. Dysfunctional zinc signaling is associated with a number of chronic disease states including cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. Cellular homeostasis requires mechanisms that tightly control the uptake, storage, and distribution of zinc. This is achieved through the coordinated actions of zinc transporters and metallothioneins. Evidence on the role of these proteins in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is now emerging. Zinc plays a key role in the synthesis, secretion and action of insulin in both physiological and pathophysiological states. Moreover, recent studies highlight zinc’s dynamic role as a “cellular second messenger” in the control of insulin signaling and glucose homeostasis. This suggests that zinc plays an unidentified role as a novel second messenger that augments insulin activity. This previously unexplored concept would raise a whole new area of research into the pathophysiology of insulin resistance and introduce a new class of drug target with utility for diabetes pharmacotherapy.
Reviewing Teacher Evaluation of Rewards and Punishments: The Overview of Chinese Teacher Evaluation Research
Authors: Jiayi Wang , Ling Cheng
Published: December 2012

The authors chose the teacher evaluation pieces literature of Chinese academic studies as the research object, analyzed the domestic dynamic and the views of some experts in this field, and summarized and compiled the research approaches and research methods of the UK and USA. The study found that whether at China or abroad, the study route is basically along the reward and punishment evaluation, from developmental evaluation to the performance evaluation, and compared to the foreign study, the Chinese studies, whether in theory or in practice, are relatively backward. Combined with the domestic situation, this study proposes a number of constructive suggestions.
The Effect of Laminin-1-Doped Nanoroughened Implant Surfaces: Gene Expression and Morphological Evaluation
Authors: Schwartz-Filho Humberto Osvaldo , Bougas Kostas , Coelho Paulo G. , Xue Ying , Hayashi Mariko , Faeda Rafael Silveira , Marcantonio Rosemary Adriana Chiérici , Ono Daisuke , Kobayashi Fumio , Mustafa Kamal , Wennerberg Ann , Jimbo Ryo
Published: December 2012

Aim. This study aimed to observe the morphological and molecular effect of laminin-1 doping to nanostructured implant surfaces in a rabbit model.Materials and Methods. Nanostructured implants were coated with laminin-1 (test; dilution, 100 μg/mL) and inserted into the rabbit tibiae. Noncoated implants were used as controls. After 2 weeks of healing, the implants were removed and subjected to morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and gene expression analysis using the real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Results. SEM revealed bony tissue attachment for both control and test implants. Real-time RT-PCR analysis showed that the expression of osteoblast markers RUNX-2, osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, and collagen I was higher (1.62-fold, 1.53-fold, 1.97-fold, and 1.04-fold, resp.) for the implants modified by laminin-1 relative to the control. All osteoclast markers investigated in the study presented higher expression on the test implants than controls as follows: tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (1.67-fold), calcitonin receptor (1.35-fold), and ATPase (1.25-fold). The test implants demonstrated higher expression of inflammatory markers interleukin-10 (1.53-fold) and tumour necrosis factor-α(1.61-fold) relative to controls.Conclusion. The protein-doped surface showed higher gene expression of typical genes involved in the osseointegration cascade than the control surface.
Exact Solutions of Generalized Boussinesq‐Burgers Equations and (2+1)‐Dimensional Davey‐Stewartson Equations
Authors: Mhlanga Isaiah Elvis , Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: December 2012

We study two coupled systems of nonlinear partial differential equations, namely, generalized Boussinesq‐Burgers equations and (2+1)‐dimensional Davey‐Stewartson equations. The Lie symmetry method is utilized to obtain exact solutions of the generalized Boussinesq‐Burgers equations. The travelling wave hypothesis approach is used to find exact solutions of the (2+1)‐dimensional Davey‐Stewartson equations.
A Semicircular Incision in the Superior Umbilical Fold for SILS Preserves the Umbilical Profile
Authors: Blackburn S. C. , Adams S. D. , Mahomed A. A.
Published: December 2012

Background. Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) has been highlighted in the recent literature as a means of performing a range of common, minimal access, paediatric surgical procedures. The primary attraction is the absence of visible scarring.Aim. This study aims to describe a cosmetically advantageous means of SILS port placement in children, which preserves the umbilical profile.Methods. We describe a paediatric case series utilising a semicircular incision in the superior umbilical fold for SILS procedures. The linea alba is exposed over 2 cm just superior to the umbilical ring and stay sutures are applied. A vertical incision is made over this distance without entering the umbilical ring. Data were recorded prospectively in a Microsoft Excel database.Results. Twenty-one cases were performed in a 1-year period. Ten appendicectomies, 5 ovarian/paraovarian cystectomies, 2 Palomo procedures, 3 nephrectomy/heminephrectomies, and 1 Meckel’s diverticulectomy were performed. There was 1 wound infection. No incisional hernias occurred.Discussion. We believe that our technique, which maintains the integrity of the umbilical ring and allows preservation of the umbilical profile, offers a distinct cosmetic advantage over other incisions for SILS which distort it.Conclusion. We have demonstrated the aesthetic benefits of utilising a superior umbilical-fold incision for SILS in children.
Acinic Cell Carcinoma of Minor Salivary Gland of the Base of Tongue That Required Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Wada Kota , Watanabe Subaru , Ando Yuji , Seino Yoichi , Moriyama Hiroshi
Published: December 2012

Acinic cell carcinoma of minor salivary gland of the base of tongue is very rare. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common tumor in the base of tongue. We present a patient with gigantic acinic cell carcinoma of the base of tongue. This patient required emergency tracheotomy before surgery, because he had dyspnea when he came to our hospital. We removed this tumor by pull-through method and performed reconstructive surgery using a rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. It was a case that to preserved movement of the tongue and swallowing function by keeping lingual arteries and hypoglossal nerves. This case was an extremely rare case of ACC of the base of tongue that required reconstructive surgery.
Study and Control of a Radial Vaned Diffuser Stall
Authors: Marsan Aurélien , Trébinjac Isabelle , Coste Sylvain , Leroy Gilles
Published: December 2012

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficiency of a boundary layer suction technique in case of a centrifugal compressor stage in order to extend its stable operating range. First, an analysis of the flow pattern within the radial vaned diffuser is presented. It highlights the stall of the diffuser vanes when reaching a low massflow. A boundary layer separation in the hub-suction side corner grows when decreasing the massflow from the nominal operating point to the surge and finally leads to a massive stall. An aspiration strategy is investigated in order to control the stall. The suction slot is put in the vicinity of the saddle that originates the main separating skin-friction line, identified thanks to the analysis of the skin-friction pattern. Several aspiration massflow rates are tested, and two different modelings of the aspiration are evaluated. Finally, an efficient control is reached with a removal of only 0,1% of the global massflow and leads—from a steady-state calculations point of view—to an increase by 40% of the compressor operating range extent.
Excision of Oral Submucous Fibrosis and Reconstruction with Full Thickness Skin Graft: A Case Study and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alshadwi Ahmad , Bhatia Ishwar
Published: December 2012

Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic debilitating disease characterized by gradually increasing fibrosis of the oral cavity and pharynx, mainly the buccal mucosa, resulting in trismus. The highest incidence of oral submucous fibrosis is seen in South India due to various deleterious habits. In spite of the numerous medical modalities employed in the management of oral submucous fibrosis, occasionally surgical intervention becomes inevitable. Various surgical approaches have been used to reconstruct the surgical defects following excision of fibrous bands. Full thickness skin grafts have been described in the literature with variable outcomes. In the present study a 38-year-old male presented with severe oral submucous fibrosis of the buccal mucosa, which was successfully treated and reconstructed using full thickness skin graft with stable functional result after one year of treatment. An integrated review of the literature regarding etiology, histopathology, diagnostic, and treatment modalities of the disease follows.
Extension on Bifurcations of Traveling Wave Solutions for a Two‐Component Fornberg‐Whitham Equation
Authors: Wen Zhenshu
Published: December 2012

Fan et al. studied the bifurcations of traveling wave solutions for a two‐component Fornberg‐Whitham equation. They gave a part of possible phase portraits and obtained some uncertain parametric conditions for solitons and kink (antikink) solutions. However, the exact explicit parametric conditions have not been given for the existence of solitons and kink (antikink) solutions. In this paper, we study the bifurcations for the two‐component Fornberg‐Whitham equation in detalis, present all possible phase portraits, and give the exact explicit parametric conditions for various solutions. In addition, not only solitons and kink (antikink) solutions, but also peakons and periodic cusp waves are obtained. Our results extend the previous study.
A Common Anesthesiology Procedure for a Patient with an Uncommon Combination of Diseases: A Case Report
Authors: Tympa Aliki , Hassiakos Dimitrios , Salakos Nikolaos , Melemeni Aikaterini
Published: December 2012

Administering neuraxial anesthesia to a patient with an underlying neurological disease and a combination of four other pathological disorders can be challenging. We report in this paper the case of a 45-year-old woman with neurological deficit due to ischemic brain infarct, multiple sclerosis, antiphospholipid syndrome, andβ-heterozygous thalassemia that was subjected to abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingoophorectomy under epidural anesthesia for ovarian cancer.
A Rare Form of Heteropagus Twinning: Three-Armed Infant with Spinal Dysraphism
Authors: Solak Aynur , Ergün Sonnaz , Polat İpek , Şahin Neslın , Genç Berhan
Published: December 2012

An ectopic or accessory limb attached to the back is an extremely rare and strange condition, and there are only a few documented cases in the worldwide literature. The first case was described by Jones and Larkin (1889). There are several theories regarding the origin of this condition. Asymmetric conjoined twinning which is located dorsally in the vertebral column (rachipagus) is the most probable diagnosis of our patient. Conjoined twinning is very rare and the incidence is 1 per 50 000 live births. Rachipagus is even rarer, with no more than 30 case reports so far (Chadha et al. (1993, 2006)). In this report, we present a patient who underwent successful surgical excision of a third arm attached to the back in the midline over the low-dorsal region. Differential diagnoses including teratoma and fetus in fetu are discussed.
Chyloperitoneum Associated with Relapse of Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Lin Jui-Hsiang , Wang Wei-Jie
Published: December 2012

Chyloperitoneum associated with nephrotic syndrome is rare clinical entity and characterized by milky ascites. The modalities for detection of chyloperitoneum are laboratory investigations and radiological images. Lipoprotein electrophoresis is useful for confirmation of the diagnosis with chyloperitoneum. Treating underlying disease is the most important in the management of these patients.
An Unusual Cardiac Manifestation in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Catapano Fausta , Pancaldi Stefano , Napoleone Carlo Pace , De Sanctis Lucia Barbara , Gargiulo Gaetano , Emiliani Giuseppe , Santoro Antonio
Published: December 2012

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is a common hereditary disorder characterized by renal and extrarenal, cystic and noncystic manifestations. Connective tissue defects, including cerebral aneurysm, meningeal diverticula, abdominal wall hernias, intestinal diverticula, and cardiac valvular abnormalities, are widely known manifestations. Instead intracardiac aneurysms have never been reported in adults with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. We describe a 65-year-old patient with end-stage renal disease due to autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and an atrial septum aneurysm associated with platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome.
Acute Activation of the Renal Betaine/GABA Transporter in Response to a Decrease in Extracellular Calcium
Authors: Parikh Nehal R. , Vaughn Cherissa L. , Williams Lagina L. , Kempson Stephen A.
Published: December 2012

The betaine/GABA transporter (BGT1) is important for osmoprotection in kidney medullary cells. We previously reported an acute (30 min) increase in extracellular Ca2+caused dose dependent inhibition of BGT-1 in renal MDCK cells. To determine if extracellular Ca2+might be a local regulator of BGT-1, we have tested the response to low Ca2+serum-free growth medium (LCM, 0.05 mM Ca2+). Chronic treatment (8–24 h) of MDCK cell monolayers completely blocked hypertonic adaptation of BGT1 and disrupted tight junctions. In contrast, acute treatment activated BGT1 transport within 30 min in MDCK cells previously adapted to hypertonic growth medium containing normal Ca2+(1.6 mM). Activation was significant after 60–90 min and was independent of medium osmolarity. Peak transport was increased 50% in isotonic LCM and 100% in hypertonic (500 mOsm) LCM over controls. The activation was reversed by restoration of normal Ca2+. Perfusion of Fura-2-loaded MDCK cells with LCM decreased intracellular Ca2+by 31% within 6-7 min. Inclusion of staurosporine (0.6 μM), a protein kinase C inhibitor, potentiated the action of LCM. We suggest that activation of BGT1 by LCM may be due in part to inhibition of protein kinase C.
Vandetanib for the Treatment of Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Chau Nicole G. , Haddad Robert I.
Published: December 2012

Vandetanib (ZD6474, Caprelsa, AstraZeneca), an oral small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that targets the rearranged during transfection receptor (RET), VEGF receptor (VEGFR2-3), and EGF receptor (EGFR), is the first systemic therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of symptomatic or progressive advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). In a randomized phase III trial of patients with unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic MTC, vandetanib improved progression-free survival compared with placebo [HR, 0.46; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.31–0.69; P < 0.001]. However, the benefits in delaying disease progression need to be balanced against the associated and potentially serious toxicities, including diarrhea, hypertension, and QTc prolongation. Here, we review the clinical development of vandetanib leading to its integration into the current treatment paradigm and highlight the ongoing and future challenges in TKI use in MTC. Clin Cancer Res; 19(3); 524–9. ©2012 AACR.
The ATPase Activity of Reptin Is Required for Its Effects on Tumor Cell Growth and Viability in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Grigoletto Aude , Neaud Véronique , Allain-Courtois Nathalie , Lestienne Patrick , Rosenbaum Jean
Published: December 2012

Reptin is overexpressed in most human hepatocellular carcinomas. Reptin is involved in chromatin remodeling, transcription regulation, or supramolecular complexes assembly. Its silencing leads to growth arrest and apoptosis in cultured hepatocellular carcinoma cells and stops hepatocellular carcinoma progression in xenografts. Reptin has an ATPase activity linked to Walker A and B domains. It is unclear whether every Reptin function depends on its ATPase activity. Here, we expressed Walker B ATPase-dead mutants (D299N or E300G) in hepatocellular carcinoma cells in the presence of endogenous Reptin. Then, we silenced endogenous Reptin and substituted it with siRNA-resistant wild-type (WT) or Flag-Reptin mutants. There was a significant decrease in cell growth when expressing either mutant in the presence of endogenous Reptin, revealing a dominant negative effect of the ATPase dead mutants on hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth. Substitution of endogenous Reptin by WT Flag-Reptin rescued cell growth of HuH7. On the other hand, substitution by Flag-Reptin D299N or E300G led to cell growth arrest. Similar results were seen with Hep3B cells. Reptin silencing in HuH7 cells led to an increased apoptotic cell death, which was prevented by WT Flag-Reptin but not by the D299N mutant. These data show that Reptin functions relevant for cancer are dependent on its ATPase activity, and suggest that antagonists of Reptin ATPase activity may be useful as anticancer agents. Mol Cancer Res; 11(2); 133–9. ©2012 AACR.
Dietary Immunosuppressants Do Not Enhance UV-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis, and Reveal Discordance between p53-Mutant Early Clones and Carcinomas
Authors: Voskamp Pieter , Bodmann Carolien A , Koehl Gudrun E , Rebel Heggert G. , Van Olderen Marjolein G.E. , Gaumann Andreas , El Ghalbzouri Abdoel , Tensen Cornelis P. , Bavinck Jan N. Bouwes , Willemze Rein , Geissler Edward K. , De Gruijl Frank R.
Published: December 2012

Immunosuppressive drugs are thought to cause the dramatically increased risk of carcinomas in sun-exposed skin of organ transplant recipients. These drugs differ in local effects on skin. We investigated whether this local impact is predictive of skin cancer risk and may thus provide guidance on minimizing the risk. Immunosuppressants (azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and rapamycin) were assessed on altering the UV induction of apoptosis in human skin models and of p53 mutant cell clones (putative tumor precursors) and ensuing skin carcinomas (with mutant p53) in the skin of hairless mice. Rapamycin was found to increase apoptosis (three-fold), whereas cyclosporine decreased apoptosis (three-fold). Correspondingly, a 1.5- to five-fold reduction (P = 0.07) or a two- to three-fold increase (P < 0.001) was found in cell clusters overexpressing mutant p53 in chronically UV-exposed skin of mice that had been fed rapamycin or cyclosporine, respectively. Deep sequencing showed, however, that the allelic frequency (∼5%) of the hotspot mutations in p53 (codons 270 and 275) remained unaffected. The majority of cells with mutated p53 seemed not to overexpress the mutated protein. Unexpectedly, none of the immunosuppressants admixed in high dosages to the diet accelerated tumor development, and cyclosporine even delayed tumor onset by approximately 15% (P < 0.01). Thus, in contrast to earlier findings, the frequency of p53-mutant cells was not predictive of the incidence of skin carcinoma. Moreover, the lack of any accelerative effect on tumor development suggests that immunosuppressive medication is not the sole cause of the dramatic increase in skin cancer risk in organ transplant recipients. Cancer Prev Res; 6(2); 129–38. ©2012 AACR.
Smoking, Smoking Cessation, and Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death in Women
Authors: Sandhu Roopinder K. , Jimenez Monik C. , Chiuve Stephanie E. , Fitzgerald Kathryn C. , Kenfield Stacey A. , Tedrow Usha B. , Albert Christine M.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Few prospective studies have examined quantitative cigarette consumption and smoking cessation on sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk with long-term follow-up.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively examined the association between cigarette smoking and smoking cessation on the risk of SCD among 101 018 women participating in the Nurses’ Health Study without known coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancer at baseline 1980. During 30 years of follow-up, we identified 351 SCD events. Compared with never smokers, current smokers had a 2.44-fold (95% CI, 1.80–3.31) increased risk of SCD after controlling for coronary risk factors. In multivariable analyses, quantity of cigarettes smoked daily (
P
value for trend, <0.0001) and smoking duration (
P
value for trend, <0.0001) were linearly associated with SCD risk among current smokers. Small-to-moderate amounts of cigarette consumption (1–14 per day) were associated with a significant 1.84-fold (95% CI, 1.16–2.92) increase in SCD risk and every 5 years of continued smoking was associated with an 8% increase in SCD risk (hazard ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.05–1.12;
P
<0.0001). The SCD risk linearly decreased over time after quitting and was equivalent to that of a never smoker after 20 years of cessation (
P
value for trend, <0.0001).

Conclusions—

In this large prospective cohort of women without coronary heart disease at baseline, a strong dose–response relationship between cigarette smoking and SCD risk was observed, and smoking cessation significantly reduced and eventually eliminated excess SCD risk. This suggests efforts to prevent SCD among women should include aggressive strategies for smoking cessation.
Upper-Troposphere MM5 and WRF Temperature Error and Vertical Velocity Coupling
Authors: Soich Kelly , Rappenglueck Bernhard
Published: December 2012

The fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesoscale Model (MM5) and the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) have been employed to predict troposphere temperatures for atmospheric study and operational decision making with positive results. Temperature bias in MM5 and WRF has been noted in previous troposphere studies through radiosonde vertical profile comparison; however, long-range horizontal in situ temperature observations have never been utilized to assess MM5 and WRF upper-troposphere temperature prediction. This study investigates upper-troposphere temperature forecasting of MM5 and WRF utilizing long-range in situ observations linking temperature error to forecast vertical velocity within the upper troposphere over surface elevation changes and different surface types. Temperature observations were taken during flights over North America, Europe, and southwest Asia between 6000 and 7600 m above sea level and compared with MM5 and WRF upper-troposphere forecasts. Regression analysis indicated MM5 and WRF upper-troposphere temperature forecast errors were related to changes in forecast vertical velocities within 100 km laterally of the modeled flight tracks between 39° and 59°N latitude. Temperature error and forecast vertical velocity coupling occurred in MM5 and WRF forecasts over land, while no evidence of temperature error and forecast vertical velocity coupling in MM5 or WRF forecasts was found over water. Evaluation of MM5 and WRF forecasts displayed varying results of temperature error and forecast vertical velocity coupling between specific surface elevations above sea level, vegetative cover, and urban influences.
A Case of Pellagra Associated With Megaduodenum in a Young Woman
Authors: Zaraa Inès , Belghith Ikram , EI Euch Dalenda , Karoui Samy , Mokni Mourad , Fillali Azza , Ben Osman Amel
Published: December 2012

Pellagra is a rare condition that has been known for many years to be related to niacin deficiency. Clinically known as the 4 “D” symptoms for dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and even death, skin changes remain one of the most important features of this pathology, leading frequently to the diagnosis. Pellagra is mostly seen in poor populations with a deficient diet; still, it is sporadically observed in developed countries, usually in association with digestive disorders. We report a new case of pellagra in a 29‐year‐old woman in whom the diagnosis of megaduodenum was made. Megaduodenum is a rare condition that can be idiopathic or secondary to visceral myopathy or neuropathy. Parenteral supplementation with niacin has resulted in a quick response of dermatological and psychiatric symptoms. To our knowledge, no case of pellagra due to megaduodenum has been reported in literature.
Discoidin domain receptor 2 regulates neutrophil chemotaxis in 3D collagen matrices
Authors: Afonso Philippe V. , McCann Colin P. , Kapnick Senta M. , Parent Carole A.
Published: December 2012

Key Points

DDR2 regulates the directional migration of neutrophils in 3D collagen matrices, but not on 2D surfaces. DDR2 regulates directionality through increased metalloproteinase secretion and generation of collagen-derived chemotactic peptide gradients.
MTH1 and RGT1 demonstrate combined haploinsufficiency in regulation of the hexose transporter genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Dietzel Kevin L , Ramakrishnan Vidhya , Murphy Erin E , Bisson Linda F
Published: December 2012

Background

TheSNF3gene in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeencodes a low glucose sensor that regulates expression of an important subset of the hexose transporter (HXT) superfamily. Null mutations ofsnf3result in a defect in growth on low glucose concentrations due to the inability to relieve repression of a subset of theHXTgenes. Thesnf3null mutation phenotype is suppressed by the loss of either one of the downstream co-repressor proteins Rgt1p or Mth1p. The relief of repression allows expression ofHXTtransporter proteins, the resumption of glucose uptake and therefore of growth in the absence of a functional Snf3 sensor.

Results

Strains heterozygous for both theRGT1andMTH1genes (RGT1/rgt1Δ MTH1/mth1Δ snf3Δ/snf3Δ) but homozygous for thesnf3∆ were found to grow on low glucose. Since null alleles in the heterozygous state lead to suppression,MTH1andRGT1display the phenomenon of combined haploinsufficiency. This observed haploinsufficiency is consistent with the finding of repressor titration as a mechanism of suppression ofsnf3. Mutants of theSTD1homolog ofMTH1did not display haploinsufficiency singly or in combination with mutations inRGT1.HXTgene reporter fusion assays indicated that the presence of heterozygosity at theMTH1andRGT1alleles leads to increased expression of theHXT2gene. Deletion of theHXT2gene in a heterozygous diploid,RGT1/rgt1Δ MTH1/mth1Δ snf3Δ/snf3Δ hxt2Δ/hxt2Δ,prevented the suppression ofsnf3Δ.

Conclusions

These findings support the model of relief of repression as the mechanism of restoration of growth on low glucose concentrations in the absence of functional Snf3p. Further, the observation thatHXT2is the gene responsible for restoration of growth under these conditions suggests that the numbers of repressor binding domains found in the regulatory regions of members of theHXTfamily may have biological relevance and enable differential regulation.
Comparative study comparing endoscopic thyroidectomy using the axillary approach and open thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Lee Hayemin , Lee Jina , Sung Ki Young
Published: December 2012

Background

Endoscopic thyroidectomy has been applied prudently to malignant thyroid tumors. The purpose of our study was to compare the surgical outcomes of endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) and conventional open thyroidectomy (COT) for micropapillary thyroid carcinoma.

Methods

From October 2002 to December 2008, 78 patients underwent unilateral lobectomy and isthmectomy with central lymph node dissection for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Of these, 37 patients underwent ET and 41patients COT. Surgical outcomes, including operation time, number of retrieved lymph nodes, postoperative complication rate and patients’ satisfaction with the cosmetic results, were analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 42.3 ± 7.6 years in the ET group and 49.0 ± 10.8 years in the OT group (P = 0.003). The operation time was shorter in the COT group (112.3 ± 14min) than in the ET group (138.4 ± 36.9 min, P< 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in tumor size (0.5 ± 0.231vs. 0.41 ± 0.264cm, P = 0.116), number of retrieved lymph nodes (3.63 ± 2.1vs. 3.82 ± 3.28, P = 0.78) or postoperative hospital stay (3.35 ± 0.94vs. 3.17 ± 1.16 days, P = 0.457). Patients in the ET group experienced more pain than those in the COT group at 1 and 7 days after the operation as evaluated by a visual analog scale (P = 0.037, 0.026). Cosmetically, patients in the ET group were very satisfied with the operative procedure according to the questionnaire we used (1.43 ± 0.55vs. 3.21 ± 0.72, P< 0.001). The mean follow-up period was 54.3 months in the ET group and 47.4 months in the COT group, and each group exhibited one case of tumor recurrence detected at the other thyroid lobe within 2 years.

Conclusions

Large series of prospective studies and long-term follow-up are needed, but the results of ET using the axillary approach for micropapillary thyroid carcinoma were not inferiortothose using COT, and it might be a safe and feasible procedure with good cosmetic results.
Enhanced antibacterial activity of roxithromycin loaded pegylated poly lactide-co-glycolide nanoparticles
Authors: Koopaei Mona Noori , Maghazei Mohamad Shahab , Mostafavi Seyed Hossein , Jamalifar Hossein , Samadi Nasrin , Amini Mohsen , Malek Soheyl Jafari , Darvishi Behrad , Atyabi Fatemeh , Dinarvand Rassoul
Published: December 2012

Background and the purpose of the study

The purpose of this study was to prepare pegylated poly lactide-co-glycolide (PEG-PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with roxithromycin (RXN) with appropriate physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity. Roxithromycin, a semi-synthetic derivative of erythromycin, is more stable than erythromycin under acidic conditions and exhibits improved clinical effects.

Methods

RXN was loaded in pegylated PLGA NPs in different drug;polymer ratios by solvent evaporation technique and characterized for their size and size distribution, surface charge, surface morphology, drug loading, in vitro drug release profile, and in vitro antibacterial effects on S. aureus, B. subtilis, and S. epidermidis.

Results and conclusion

NPs were spherical with a relatively mono-dispersed size distribution. The particle size of nanoparticles ranged from 150 to 200 nm. NPs with entrapment efficiency of up to 80.0±6.5% and drug loading of up to 13.0±1.0% were prepared. In vitro release study showed an early burst release of about 50.03±0.99% at 6.5 h and then a slow and steady release of RXN was observed after the burst release. In vitro antibacterial effects determined that the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of RXN loaded PEG-PLGA NPs were 9 times lower on S. aureus, 4.5 times lower on B. subtilis, and 4.5 times lower on S. epidermidis compared to RXN solution. In conclusion it was shown that polymeric NPs enhanced the antibacterial efficacy of RXN substantially.
Molecular sexing of threatened Gyps vultures: an important strategy for conservation breeding and ecological studies
Authors: Ghorpade Prabhakar B , Gupta Praveen K , Prakash Vibhu , Cuthbert Richard J , Kulkarni Mandar , Prakash Nikita , Das Asit , Sharma Anil K , Saini Mohini
Published: December 2012

During the last two decades populations of three resident species of Gyps vulture have declined dramatically and are now threatened with extinction in South Asia. Sex identification of vultures is of key importance for the purpose of conservation breeding as it is desirable to have an equal sex ratio in these monogamous species which are housed together in large colony aviaries. Because vultures are monomorphic, with no differences in external morphology or plumage colour between the sexes, other methods are required for sex identification. Molecular methods for sex identification in birds rely on allelic length or nucleotide sequence discrimination of the chromohelicase-DNA binding (CHD) gene located on male and female chromosomes ZZ and ZW, respectively. We characterized the partial sequences of CHD alleles from Gyps indicus, Gyps bengalensis, Gyps himalayensis and Aegypius monachus and analysed the applicability of five molecular methods of sex identification of 46 individual vultures including 26 known-sex G. bengalensis and G. indicus. The results revealed that W-specific PCR in combination with ZW-common PCR is a quick, accurate and simple method, and is ideal for sex identification of vultures. The method is also suitable to augment ecological studies for identifying sex of these endangered birds during necropsy examinations especially when gonads are not apparent, possibly due to regression during non-breeding seasons.
Effects of a polyphenol present in olive oil, oleuropein aglycone, in a murine model of intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Campolo Michela , Di Paola Rosanna , Impellizzeri Daniela , Crupi Rosalia , Morittu Valeria Maria , Procopio Antonio , Perri Enzo , Britti Domenico , Peli Angelo , Esposito Emanuela , Cuzzocrea Salvatore
Published: December 2012

Oleuropein aglycone reduces damage in SAO-shocked mice.

Dietary olive oil supplementation and more recently, olive oil phenols have been recommended as important therapeutic interventions in preventive medicine. Ole has several pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antiviral and for these reasons, is becoming an important subject of study in recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Ole aglycone on the modulation of the secondary events in mice subjected to intestinal IRI. This was induced in mice by clamping the superior mesenteric artery and the celiac trunk for 30 min, followed by release of the clamp, allowing reperfusion for 1 h. After 60 min of reperfusion, animals were killed for histological examination of the ileum tissue and immunohistochemical localization of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) and adhesion molecules (ICAM-1 and P-sel); moreover, by Western blot analysis, we investigated the activation of NF-κB and IκBα. In addition, we evaluated the apoptosis process, as shown by TUNEL staining and Bax/Bcl-2 expressions. The results obtained by the histological and molecular examinations showed in Ole aglycone-treated mice, a decrease of inflammation and apoptosis pathway versus SAO-shocked mice. In conclusion, we propose that the olive oil compounds, in particular, the Ole aglycone, could represent a possible treatment against secondary events of intestinal IRI.
Phase III Randomized Intergroup Trial of CHOP Plus Rituximab Compared With CHOP Chemotherapy Plus131Iodine-Tositumomab for Previously Untreated Follicular Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: SWOG S0016
Authors: Press Oliver W. , Unger Joseph M. , Rimsza Lisa M. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , LeBlanc Michael , Czuczman Myron S. , Kaminski Mark , Braziel Rita M. , Spier Catherine , Gopal Ajay K. , Maloney David G. , Cheson Bruce D. , Dakhil Shaker R. , Miller Thomas P. , Fisher Richard I.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Advanced follicular lymphomas (FL) are considered incurable with conventional chemotherapy and there is no consensus on the best treatment approach. Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) and Cancer and Leukemia Group B compared the safety and efficacy of two immunochemotherapy regimens for FL in a phase III randomized intergroup protocol (SWOG S0016) that enrolled 554 patients with previously untreated, advanced-stage FL between March 1, 2001, and September 15, 2008.

Patients and Methods

Patients were eligible for the study if they had advanced-stage (bulky stage II, III, or IV) evaluable FL of any grade (1, 2, or 3) and had not received previous therapy. In one arm of the study, patients received six cycles of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) chemotherapy at 3-week intervals with six doses of rituximab (CHOP-R). In another arm of the study, patients received six cycles of CHOP followed by consolidation with tositumomab/iodine I-131 tositumomab radioimmunotherapy (RIT).

Results

After a median follow-up period of 4.9 years, the 2-year estimate of progression-free survival (PFS) was 76% on the CHOP-R arm and 80% on the CHOP-RIT arm (P = .11). The 2-year estimate of overall survival (OS) was 97% on the CHOP-R arm and 93% on the CHOP-RIT arm (P = .08).

Conclusion

There was no evidence of a significant improvement in PFS comparing CHOP-RIT with CHOP-R. However, PFS and OS were outstanding on both arms of the study. Future studies are needed to determine the potential benefits of combining CHOP-R induction chemotherapy with RIT consolidation and/or extended rituximab maintenance therapy.
EMA/CO for High-Risk Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia: Good Outcomes With Induction Low-Dose Etoposide-Cisplatin and Genetic Analysis
Authors: Alifrangis Constantine , Agarwal Roshan , Short Delia , Fisher Rosemary A. , Sebire Neil J. , Harvey Richard , Savage Philip M. , Seckl Michael J.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Patients with high-risk (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics score ≥ 7) gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) frequently receive etoposide, methotrexate, and dactinomycin alternating weekly with cyclophosphamide and vincristine (EMA/CO). Between 1979 and 1995, overall survival (OS) with this regimen at our institute was 85.4% with a significant proportion of early deaths (< 4 weeks). Here, we determine whether survival rates have improved in a more recent patient cohort (1995 to 2010).

Patients and Methods

Patients receiving EMA/CO were identified using the Charing Cross GTN database. Genetic analysis identified nongestational trophoblastic tumors (nGTTs). The use of induction low-dose etoposide 100 mg/m2 and cisplatin 20 mg/m2 (EP; days 1 and 2 every 7 days) since 1995 to reduce early deaths before commencing EMA/CO was noted.

Results

Four hundred thirty-eight patients received EMA/CO between 1995 and 2010. Six patients had nGTTs, 140 had high-risk disease, and 250 had relapsed/resistant low-risk GTN. OS was 94.3% in high-risk patients (90.4% including nGTTs) and 99.6% in the low-risk group, with a median follow-up time of 4.2 years. All patients with nGTT and seven patients with high-risk GTNs died as a result of drug-resistant disease. EP induction chemotherapy was given to 23.1% of high-risk patients (33 of 140 patients) with a large disease burden, and the early death rate was only 0.7% (n = 1; 95% CI, 0.1% to 3.7%) compared with 7.2% (n = 11 of 151 patients; 95% CI, 4.1% to 12.6%) in the pre-1995 cohort.

Conclusion

OS after EMA/CO for high-risk GTN has increased by nearly 9%. This reflects a more accurate estimate of OS by excluding nGTTs (3.9%) in patients with atypical presentations using genetic diagnosis. Low-dose induction EP in selected individuals also allows near complete elimination of early deaths. The latter should be considered routinely in high-risk GTN.
Results of a Randomized Trial of Chlorambucil Versus Fludarabine for Patients With Untreated Waldenström Macroglobulinemia, Marginal Zone Lymphoma, or Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma
Authors: Leblond Véronique , Johnson Steve , Chevret Sylvie , Copplestone Adrian , Rule Simon , Tournilhac Olivier , Seymour John Francis , Patmore Russell D. , Wright David , Morel Pierre , Dilhuydy Marie-Sarah , Willoughby Sara , Dartigeas Caroline , Malphettes Marion , Royer Bruno , Ewings Maeve , Pratt Guy , Lejeune Julie , Nguyen-Khac Florence , Choquet Sylvain , Owen Roger G.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Treatment options for patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) and closely related disorders include alkylating agents, purine analogs, and monoclonal antibodies. No large randomized studies have yet been reported comparing any of these approaches.

Patients and Methods

The randomized WM1 study (Trial Comparing Chlorambucil to Fludarabine in Patients With Advanced Waldenström Macroglobulinemia) was undertaken in 101 centers in five countries enrolling 414 eligible patients (339 with WM, 37 with non–mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue marginal zone lymphoma, and 38 with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma) who were randomly assigned to receive chlorambucil or fludarabine. The primary end point was the overall response rate (ORR).

Results

On the basis of intent-to-treat analysis, the ORR was 47.8% (95% CI, 40.9% to 54.8%) in the fludarabine arm versus 38.6% (95% CI, 32.0% to 45.7%) in the chlorambucil arm (P = .07). With a median follow-up of 36 months (interquartile range, 18 to 58 months), median progression-free survival (PFS), and duration of response (DR) were significantly improved in the fludarabine arm compared with the chlorambucil arm: PFS, 36.3 versus 27.1 months (P = .012) and DR, 38.3 versus 19.9 months (P < .001). In patients with WM, median overall survival (OS) was not reached in the fludarabine arm versus 69.8 months in the chlorambucil arm (95% CI, 61.6 to 79.8 months; P = .014). Grade 3 to 4 neutropenia was significantly higher among patients treated with fludarabine (36%) compared with patients treated with chlorambucil (17.8%; P < .001). Second malignancies were significantly more frequent in the chlorambucil arm with 6-year cumulative incidence rate of 20.6% versus 3.7% in the fludarabine arm (P = .001).

Conclusion

In the complete intent-to-treat study population, fludarabine significantly improved PFS compared with chlorambucil, and in patients with WM, it improved OS.
The Fifth Column: Having Fun Doing OR?
Authors: Holloran Thomas J. , Woolsey Gene
Published: December 2012

Operations research (OR) is fun. Where is the fun? We postulate that OR can maximize your objective FUN-ction by simply offering the chance to do real work and solve real problems. This column offers the proof.
Nitroglycerin (Transdermal): Raynaud Phenomenon
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: December 2012

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@kumc.edu .