bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of sex on the heart's metabolic and functional responses to diabetic therapies
Authors: Lyons Matthew R. , Peterson Linda R. , McGill Janet B. , Herrero Pilar , Coggan Andrew R. , Saeed Ibrahim M. , Recklein Carol , Schechtman Kenneth B. , Gropler Robert J.
Published: September 2013

Increased myocardial lipid delivery is a determinant of myocardial substrate metabolism and function in animal models of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Sex also has major effects on myocardial metabolism in the human heart. Our aims were to determine whether 1) sex affects the myocardial metabolic response to lipid lowering in T2DM, 2) altering lipid [fatty acid (FA) or triglyceride] delivery to the heart would lower the elevated myocardial lipid metabolism associated with T2DM, and 3) decreasing lipid delivery improves diastolic dysfunction in T2DM. To this end, we studied 78 T2DM patients (43 women) with positron emission tomography, echocardiography, and whole body tracer studies before and 3 mo after randomization to metformin (MET), metformin + rosiglitazone (ROSI), or metformin + Lovaza (LOV). No treatment main effects were found for myocardial substrate metabolism, partly because men and women often had different responses to a given treatment. In men, MET decreased FA clearance, which was linked to increased plasma FA levels, myocardial FA utilization and oxidation, and lower myocardial glucose utilization. In women, ROSI increased FA clearance, thereby decreasing plasma FA levels and myocardial FA utilization. Although LOV did not change triglyceride levels, it improved diastolic function, particularly in men. Group and sex also interacted in determining myocardial glucose uptake. Thus, in T2DM, different therapeutic regimens impact myocardial metabolism and diastolic function in a sex-specific manner. This suggests that sex should be taken into account when designing a patient's diabetes treatment.
Fortilin reduces apoptosis in macrophages and promotes atherosclerosis
Authors: Pinkaew Decha , Le Rachel J. , Chen Yanjie , Eltorky Mahmoud , Teng Ba-Bie , Fujise Ken
Published: September 2013

Atherosclerosis, a deadly disease insufficiently addressed by cholesterol-lowering drugs, needs new therapeutic strategies. Fortilin, a 172-amino acid multifunctional polypeptide, binds p53 and blocks its transcriptional activation of Bax, thereby exerting potent antiapoptotic activity. Although fortilin-overexpressing mice reportedly exhibit hypertension and accelerated atherosclerosis, it remains unknown if fortilin, not hypertension, facilitates atherosclerosis. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that fortilin in and of itself facilitates atherosclerosis by protecting macrophages against apoptosis. We generated fortilin-deficient ( fortilin+/−) mice and wild-type counterparts ( fortilin+/+) on a LDL receptor ( Ldlr)−/−apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide 1 ( Apobec1)−/−hypercholesterolemic genetic background, incubated them for 10 mo on a normal chow diet, and assessed the degree and extent of atherosclerosis. Despite similar blood pressure and lipid profiles, fortilin+/−mice exhibited significantly less atherosclerosis in their aortae than their fortilin+/+littermate controls. Quantitative immunostaining and flow cytometry analyses showed that the atherosclerotic lesions of fortilin+/−mice contained fewer macrophages than those of fortilin+/+mice. In addition, there were more apoptotic cells in the intima of fortilin+/−mice than in the intima of fortilin+/+mice. Furthermore, peritoneal macrophages from fortilin+/−mice expressed more Bax and underwent increased apoptosis, both at the baseline level and in response to oxidized LDL. Finally, hypercholesterolemic sera from Ldlr−/−Apobec1−/−mice induced fortilin in peritoneal macrophages more robustly than sera from control mice. In conclusion, fortilin, induced in the proatherosclerotic microenvironment in macrophages, protects macrophages against Bax-induced apoptosis, allows them to propagate, and accelerates atherosclerosis. Anti-fortilin therapy thus may represent a promising next generation antiatherosclerotic therapeutic strategy.
Factors Influencing Women's Decision to Participate or Not in a Surgical Randomised Controlled Trial for Surgical Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Mostafa Alyaa , N'Dow James , Abdel-Fattah Mohamed
Published: September 2013

The study aims to explore the potentially influential factors affecting women's decision to accept/decline participation in surgical randomised trial using a novel acceptance/refusal questionnaire (ARQ). All women who were eligible to participate in SIMS-RCT were asked to complete the relevant section (acceptance/refusal) of the ARQ. Women reported its degree of relevance for their decision on a six-point Likert scale (0 = highly irrelevant, 5 = highly relevant). 135 (98%) and 31 (70%) women completed the acceptance and refusal sections of the ARQ, respectively. The most influencing factor in women’s acceptance was the anticipation of “potential personal benefit”; percentage of relevance (POR) was 91.9%, followed by interest in helping others by “supporting innovative medical research”; POR was 87.7%. Most influencing factor in refusal for participation was “do not have time for follow-up”; POR was 56.8%, followed by “do not like the concept of randomisation”; POR was 54.4%. In conclusion, this study identifies the most influential factors relevant to women decision-making whether or not to participate in RCTs assessing surgical interventions for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). A number of factors leading to refusal of participation are potentially correctable leading to better recruitment rates in future RCTs.
Microstructural Investigations of Rapidly Solidified Al-Co-Y Alloys
Authors: Avar B. , Gogebakan M. , Tarakci M. , Gencer Y. , Kerli S.
Published: September 2013

The alloys with different compositions in the Al-rich corner of the Al-Co-Y ternary system were prepared by conventional casting and further processed by melt-spinning technique. The microstructure and the thermal behavior of the alloys were analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and differential thermal analysis (DTA). It was found that only rapidly solidified Al85Co7Y8alloy exhibited the best glass forming ability (GFA) and a fully amorphous structure. Besides, Al85Co13Y2and Al85Co2Y13alloy ribbons were fully crystalline, whereas Al85Co10Y5and Al85Co5Y10alloy ribbons consisted of some crystalline phases within an amorphous matrix. The SEM results showed the same trend that the crystalline phase fraction decreases with the approaching into best glass former. From DSC results, only Al85Co7Y8amorphous alloy exhibited a glass transition temperature (Tg) at 569 K, and its supercooled liquid region (ΔTx=Tx−Tg) was found to be 17 K. Moreover, other calculated GFA parameters for this alloy system were also discussed.
Optical and Electrical Properties of Thin Films of CuS Nanodisks Ensembles Annealed in a Vacuum and Their Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Santos Cruz J. , Mayén Hernández S. A. , Paraguay Delgado F. , Zelaya Angel O. , Castanedo Pérez R. , Torres Delgado G.
Published: September 2013

Effects on the optical, electrical, and photocatalytic properties of undoped CuS thin films nanodisks vacuum annealed at different temperatures were investigated. The chemical bath prepared CuS thin films were obtained at 40°C on glass substrates. The grain size of13.5±3.5 nm was computed directly from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images. The electrical properties were measured by means of both Hall effect at room temperature and dark resistivity as a function of the absolute temperature 100–330 K. The activation energy values were calculated as 0.007, 0.013, and 0.013 eV for 100, 150, and 200°C, respectively. The energy band gap of the films varied in the range of 1.98 up to 2.34 eV. The photocatalytic activity of the CuS thin film was evaluated by employing the degradation of aqueous methylene blue solution in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The CuS sample thin film annealed in vacuum at 150°C exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity in presence of hydrogen peroxide.
A Robust Algorithm for Optimisation and Customisation of Fractal Dimensions of Time Series Modified by Nonlinearly Scaling Their Time Derivatives: Mathematical Theory and Practical Applications
Authors: Fuss Franz Konstantin
Published: September 2013

Standard methods for computing the fractal dimensions of time series are usually tested with continuous nowhere differentiable functions, but not benchmarked with actual signals. Therefore they can produce opposite results in extreme signals. These methods also use different scaling methods, that is, different amplitude multipliers, which makes it difficult to compare fractal dimensions obtained from different methods. The purpose of this research was to develop an optimisation method that computes the fractal dimension of a normalised (dimensionless) and modified time series signal with a robust algorithm and a running average method, and that maximises the difference between two fractal dimensions, for example, a minimum and a maximum one. The signal is modified by transforming its amplitude by a multiplier, which has a non-linear effect on the signal’s time derivative. The optimisation method identifies the optimal multiplier of the normalised amplitude for targeted decision making based on fractal dimensions. The optimisation method provides an additional filter effect and makes the fractal dimensions less noisy. The method is exemplified by, and explained with, different signals, such as human movement, EEG, and acoustic signals.
CADe System Integrated within the Electronic Health Record
Authors: Vállez Noelia , Bueno Gloria , Déniz Óscar , Fernández María del Milagro , Pastor Carlos , Rienda Miguel Ángel , Esteve Pablo , Arias María
Published: September 2013

The latest technological advances and information support systems for clinics and hospitals produce a wide range of possibilities in the storage and retrieval of an ever-growing amount of clinical information as well as in detection and diagnosis. In this work, an Electronic Health Record (EHR) combined with a Computer Aided Detection (CADe) system for breast cancer diagnosis has been implemented. Our objective is to provide to radiologists a comprehensive working environment that facilitates the integration, the image visualization, and the use of aided tools within the EHR. For this reason, a development methodology based on hardware and software system features in addition to system requirements must be present during the whole development process. This will lead to a complete environment for displaying, editing, and reporting results not only for the patient information but also for their medical images in standardised formats such as DICOM and DICOM-SR. As a result, we obtain a CADe system which helps in detecting breast cancer using mammograms and is completely integrated into an EHR.
Extremal Solutions and Relaxation Problems for Fractional Differential Inclusions
Authors: Nieto Juan J. , Ouahab Abdelghani , Prakash P.
Published: September 2013

We present the existence of extremal solution and relaxation problem for fractional differential inclusion with initial conditions.
Dynamical Electroweak Symmetry Breaking with a Heavy Fermion in Light of Recent LHC Results
Authors: Hung Pham Q.
Published: September 2013

The recent announcement of a discovery of a possible Higgs-like particle—its spin and parity are yet to be determined—at the LHC with a mass of 126 GeV necessitates a fresh look at the nature of the electroweak symmetry breaking, in particular if this newly-discovered particle will turn out to have the quantum numbers of a Standard Model Higgs boson. Even if it were a 0+scalar with the properties expected for a SM Higgs boson, there is still the quintessential hierarchy problem that one has to deal with and which, by itself, suggests a new physics energy scale around 1 TeV. This paper presents a minireview of one possible scenario: the formation of a fermion-antifermion condensate coming from a very heavy fourth generation, carrying the quantum number of the SM Higgs field, and thus breaking the electroweak symmetry.
An Investigation of Optimum NLC‐Sunscreen Formulation Using Taguchi Analysis
Authors: Chen Pao Chi , Huang Jun-Wei , Pang Jimmy
Published: September 2013

This study used three kinds of wax and three kinds of oil, with fixed mixture ratio including UV‐blocking materials of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, oxybenzone, and avobenzone, and applied hot high‐pressure homogenization process to prepare nanolipid sunscreen formulations. The measured particle size of the sunscreen formulations was 100~300 nm around PDI of 0.2 having a moderate polydisperse system. The distribution of zeta potential was −50 mV to −35 mV, showing a stable system. The UV light‐absorbing range of 9 groups of sunscreen formulations was 275 nm~380 nm ranging within UVA and UVB. The rheological analysis found that the viscosity change is shear, thinning exhibiting colloid behavior. Taguchi analysis found that the optimum combinations are the carnauba wax and the blackcurrant oil combination for crystallinity and the beeswax and CPG oil for UV absorption. In addition, UV‐blocking ability shows that the SPF was 51.5 and PFA was three stars for SU9 formulation. Finally, the effect of temperature on the properties of sunscreen formulations was also explored.
Studying Close Approaches for a Cloud of Particles Considering Atmospheric Drag
Authors: Gomes Vivian Martins , Formiga Jorge , de Moraes Rodolpho Vilhena
Published: September 2013

The present paper has the goal of studying close approaches between a planet and a group of particles. The mathematical model includes the presence of the atmosphere of the planet. This cloud is assumed to be created by the passage of the spacecraft in the atmosphere of the planet, which can cause the explosion of the spacecraft. The system is assumed to be formed by the Sun, the planet, and the spacecraft that explodes and becomes a cloud of particles. The Sun and the planet are assumed to be in circular orbits and the motion is planar. The equations of motion are the ones given by the circular planar restricted three-body problem combined with the forces given by the atmospheric drag. In the numerical simulations, the planet Jupiter is the celestial body used for the close approaches. The initial positions and velocities of the spacecraft and the particles are specified at the periapsis, because it is assumed that this is the point where the explosion occurs.
Optical Characterization and Growth Mechanism of Combination of Zinc Oxide Nanowires and Nanorods at Various Substrate Temperatures
Authors: Ghosh Poulami , Sharma A. K.
Published: September 2013

We report on the growth of ZnO nanostructures on n‐type silicon substrate using pulsed laser deposition technique at substrate temperature ranging from room temperature to 600°C for one hour. We observe both rod‐ and wire‐like structures with different dimensions at room temperature, 150°C, and 450°C substrate temperatures and only wire‐like structures at 300°C and 600°C. These combinations of different shapes have been attributed to the initial growth of nanostructures (nucleation sites) on the surface obtained during the deposition for 20 minutes. The narrowing in the full‐width‐half‐maximum of the peak corresponding to (002) plane of XRD is looked upon as another possible explanation. The blue shift of the peak at 396 nm observed in the photoluminescence is due to the quantum confinement. The intensity of E2(high) mode at 437 cm−1 increases indicating improvement in crystallinity with the substrate temperature.
Sexual Dimorphism of Cardiovascular Ischemia Susceptibility Is Mediated by Heme Oxygenase
Authors: Pósa Anikó , Kupai Krisztina , Ménesi Rudolf , Szalai Zita , Szabó Renáta , Pintér Zoltán , Pálfi György , Gyöngyösi Mariann , Berkó Anikó , Pávó Imre , Varga Csaba
Published: September 2013

We investigated the gender differences in heme-oxygenase (HO) enzyme, which produces endogenous vascular protective carbon monoxide (CO). We studied (1) the activity and expression of HO enzymes in the left ventricle (LV) and aorta, (2) basal increase in basal blood pressure provoked by arginine vasopressine (AVP)in vivo, (3) the heart perfusion induced by AVP, (4) the ST segment depression provoked by adrenaline and 30 seconds later phentolamine, and (5) the aorta ring contraction induced by AVP in female and male Wistar rats. We found that HO activity and the expression of HO-1 and HO-2 were increased in female rat aorta and LV. We demonstrated that the basal blood pressure and administration of AVP provoked blood pressure response are increased in the males; the female myocardium was less sensitive towards angina. Both differences could be aggravated by the inhibition of HO. The aorta rings were more susceptible towards vasoconstriction by AVP in males; isolated heart perfusion decrease was higher in males. The HO inhibition aggravated the heart perfusion in both sexes. In conclusion, the increased HO activity and expression in females might play a role in the sexual dimorphism of cardiovascular ischemia susceptibility during the reproductive age.
The Extrapolation-Accelerated Multilevel Aggregation Method in PageRank Computation
Authors: Pu Bing-Yuan , Huang Ting-Zhu , Wen Chun , Lin Yi-Qin
Published: September 2013

An accelerated multilevel aggregation method is presented for calculating the stationary probability vector of an irreducible stochastic matrix in PageRank computation, where the vector extrapolation method is its accelerator. We show how to periodically combine the extrapolation method together with the multilevel aggregation method on the finest level for speeding up the PageRank computation. Detailed numerical results are given to illustrate the behavior of this method, and comparisons with the typical methods are also made.
Coating with Autologous Plasma Improves Biocompatibility of Mesh GraftsIn Vitro: Development Stage of a Surgical Innovation
Authors: Gerullis Holger , Georgas Evangelos , Eimer Christoph , Arndt Christian , Barski Dimitri , Lammers Bernhard , Klosterhalfen Bernd , Borós Mihaly , Otto Thomas
Published: September 2013

Purpose. To investigate mesh coating modalities with autologous blood components in a recently developedin vitrotest system for biocompatibility assessment of alloplastic materials.Materials and Methods. Seven different mesh types, currently used in various indications, were randomly investigated. Meshes were coated prior to cultivation with autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), platelets, and blood plasma. Pretreated meshes were incubated over 6 weeks in a minced tissue assay, representative for fibroblasts, muscle cells, and endothelial cells originating from 10 different patients. Adherence of those tissues on the meshes was microscopically investigated and semiquantitatively assessed using a previously described scoring system.Results. Coating with peripheral blood mononuclear cells did not affect the adherence score, whereas coating with platelets and blood plasma increased the score suggesting improved biocompatibilityin vitro. The previous ranking of native meshes remained consistent after coating.Conclusion. Plasma coating of meshes improves their biocompatibility score in a novelin vitrotest system.
Correction of Hypothyroidism Seems to Have No Effect on Body Fat
Authors: Bakiner Okan , Bozkirli Emre , Ersozlu Bozkirli Emine Duygu , Ozsahin Kursat
Published: September 2013

Aim. We aimed to observe the effects of L-thyroxine replacement therapy on body fat content determined with various anthropometric methods and a bioelectrical impedance analysis method in patients with hypothyroidism.Methods. Forty-two women with naive autoimmune hypothyroidism were included. Also, 40 healthy participants were enrolled as a control group. Weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and subscapulary, suprailiac, femur, biceps, and triceps skin fold thicknesses were measured. Body fat percentages were calculated and body fat measurements were performed. Euthyroidism was maintained with L-thyroxine. At the 6th and 18th month, of therapy, measurements were reperformed.Results. Mean TSH levels were  mIU/L in hypothyroid group and  mIU/L in control subjects at admission. In hypothyroid patients, calculated body fat percentages were greater than those of the control subjects during follow-up. Body fat percentage of each hypothyroid case decreased at 6- and 18-month controls, but the decrements were statistically insignificant. Although skin fold thicknesses measured from all sites were observed to decline, only those obtained from femur and biceps showed a significant decrease ( and , resp.).Discussion. Correction of hypothyroidism did not cause any improvement in body weight and body fat percentage. The decrease in skin fold thicknesses might probably result from the reduction in subcutaneous mucopolysaccharide deposits.
Association of Urban Slum Residency with Infant Mortality and Child Stunting in Low and Middle Income Countries
Authors: Kyu Hmwe Hmwe , Shannon Harry S. , Georgiades Katholiki , Boyle Michael H.
Published: September 2013

This study aimed to (i) examine the contextual influences of urban slum residency on infant mortality and child stunting over and above individual and household characteristics and (ii) identify factors that might modify any adverse effects. We obtained data from Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 45 countries between 2000 and 2009. The respondents were women (15–49 years) and their children (0–59 months). Results showed that living in a slum neighborhood was associated with infant mortality (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.15–1.57) irrespective of individual and household characteristics and this risk was attenuated among children born to women who had received antenatal care from a health professional (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63–0.99). Results also indicated that increasing child age exacerbated the risk for stunting associated with slum residency (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.16–1.23). The findings suggest that improving material circumstances in urban slums at the neighborhood level as well as increasing antenatal care coverage among women living in these neighborhoods could help reduce infant mortality and stunted child growth. The cumulative impact of long-term exposure to slum neighborhoods on child stunting should be corroborated by future studies.
The Role of Osteoimmunology in Periodontal Disease
Authors: Kayal Rayyan A.
Published: September 2013

Periodontal disease is a pathological condition that involves inflammation of the tooth supporting structures. It occurs in response to the presence of bacterial plaque on the tooth structure. The host defense system, including innate and adaptive immunity, is responsible for combating the pathologic bacteria invading the periodontal tissue. Failure to eradicate the invading pathogens will result in a continuous state of inflammation where inflammatory cells such as lymphocytes, PMNs, and macrophages will continue to produce inflammatory mediators in an effort to destroy the invaders. Unfortunately, these inflammatory mediators have a deleterious effect on the host tissue as well as foreign microbes. One of the effects of these mediators on the host is the induction of matrix degradation and bone resorption through activation of proteases and other inflammatory mediators that activate osteoclasts.
A New Numerical Approach of MHD Flow with Heat and Mass Transfer for the UCM Fluid over a Stretching Surface in the Presence of Thermal Radiation
Authors: Shateyi S. , Marewo G. T.
Published: September 2013

This paper numerically investigates the magnetohydrodynamic boundary layer flow with heat and mass transfer of an incompressible upper-convected Maxwell fluid over a stretching sheet in the presence of viscous dissipation and thermal radiation as well as chemical reaction. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations by using suitable similarity transformations. The resultant highly nonlinear ordinary differential equations are then solved using spectral relaxation method. The results are obtained for velocity, temperature, concentration, skin friction, and Nusselt number. The effects of various material parameters on the flow with heat and mass transfer and the dimensionless variables are illustrated graphically and briefly discussed.
Cancer Morbidity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Role of Estrogen Metabolites
Authors: Khan Wahid Ali , Khan Mohd Wajid Ali
Published: September 2013

Estrogen metabolites have been implicated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cancer, although the mechanism remains unestablished. Some estrogen metabolites, which are used for the assessment of cancer risk, play an important role in RA. The pathways by which malignancies associated with RA remain elusive. Possible mechanism involves enzymatic or nonenzymatic oxidation of estrogen into catecholestrogen metabolites through semiquinone and quinone redox cycle to produce free radicals that can cause DNA modifications. Modifications of DNA alter its immunogenicity and trigger various immune responses leading to elevated levels of cancer and RA antibodies. However, the role of different estrogen metabolites as a mediator of immune response cannot be ruled out in various immune-related diseases.
Boundedness of Solutions to Differential Equations of Fourth Order with Oscillatory Restoring and Forcing Terms
Authors: Tunç Cemil , Ateş Muzaffer
Published: September 2013

This paper deals with the boundedness of solutions to a nonlinear differential equation of fourth order. Using the Cauchy formula for the particular solution of nonhomogeneous differential equations with constant coefficients, we prove that the solution and its derivatives up to order three are bounded.
The Associations between Pain Sensitivity and Knee Muscle Strength in Healthy Volunteers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Henriksen Marius , Klokker Louise , Bartholdy Cecilie , Graven-Nielsen Thomas , Bliddal Henning
Published: September 2013

Objectives. To investigate associations between muscle strength and pain sensitivity among healthy volunteers and associations between different pain sensitivity measures. Methods. Twenty-eight healthy volunteers (21 females) participated. Pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) were obtained from 1) computer-controlled pressure algometry on the vastus lateralis and deltoid muscles and on the infrapatellar fat pad and 2) computerized cuff pressure algometry applied on the lower leg. Deep-tissue pain sensitivity (intensity and duration) was assessed by hypertonic saline injections into the vastus lateralis, deltoid, and infrapatellar fat pad. Quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength was assessed isometrically at 60-degree knee flexion using a dynamometer. Associations between pain sensitivity and muscle strength were investigated using multiple regressions including age, gender, and body mass index as covariates. Results. Knee extension strength was associated with computer-controlled PPT on the vastus lateralis muscle. Computer-controlled PPTs were significantly correlated between sites (r>0.72) and with cuff PPT (r>0.4). Saline induced pain intensity and duration were correlated between sites (r>0.39) and with all PPTs (r<-0.41). Conclusions. Pressure pain thresholds at the vastus lateralis are positively associated with knee extensor muscle strength. Different pain sensitivity assessment methods are generally correlated. The cuff PPT and evoked infrapatellar pain seem to reflect the general pain sensitivity. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01351558.
Optimal Simultaneous Approximation via𝒜-Summability
Authors: Aguilera Francisco , Cárdenas-Morales Daniel , Garrancho Pedro
Published: September 2013

We present optimal convergence results for themth derivative of a function by sequences of linear operators. The usual convergence is replaced by𝒜-summability, with𝒜being a sequence of infinite matrices with nonnegative real entries, and the operators are assumed to bem-convex. Saturation results for nonconvergent but almost convergent sequences of operators are stated as corollaries.
The Effects of Water Parameters on Monthly Seagrass Percentage Cover in Lawas, East Malaysia
Authors: Ahmad-Kamil E. I. , Ramli R. , Jaaman S. A. , Bali J. , Al-Obaidi J. R.
Published: September 2013

Seagrass is a valuable marine ecosystem engineer. However, seagrass population is declining worldwide. The lack of seagrass research in Malaysia raises questions about the status of seagrasses in the country. The seagrasses in Lawas, which is part of the coral‐mangrove‐seagrass complex, have never been studied in detail. In this study, we examine whether monthly changes of seagrass population in Lawas occurred. Data on estimates of seagrass percentage cover and water physicochemical parameters (pH, turbidity, salinity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen) were measured at 84 sampling stations established within the study area from June 2009 to May 2010. Meteorological data such as total rainfall, air temperature, and Southern Oscillation Index were also investigated. Our results showed that (i) the monthly changes of seagrass percentage cover are significant, (ii) the changes correlated significantly with turbidity measurements, and (iii) weather changes affected the seagrass populations. Our study indicates seagrass percentage increased during the El‐Nino period. These results suggest that natural disturbances such as weather changes affect seagrass populations. Evaluation of land usage and measurements of other water physicochemical parameters (such as heavy metal, pesticides, and nutrients) should be considered to assess the health of seagrass ecosystem at the study area.
Assessment of Heavy Metals Concentration in Arsenic Contaminated Groundwater of the Chaco Plain, Argentina
Authors: Giménez M. Cecilia , Blanes Patricia S. , Buchhamer Edgar E. , Osicka Rosa M. , Morisio Yamila , Farías Silvia S.
Published: September 2013

The occurrence and distribution of arsenic and 23 other trace elements have been investigated in groundwater from Comandante Fernández Department in the Central region of Chaco Province, Northern Argentine. The arsenic concentrations samples ranged between 0.7 to 1990 µg L−1; 91% (n=45) exceeds the 10 µg L−1 World Health Organization (WHO) provisional standard limits for drinking water. Fluorine was detected in 31% of groundwater samples. Furthermore, there was found a significant correlation between As and F (r2=0.50), indicating an association in the prevalence of both elements. In addition, about 78%, 31%, 16%, 13%, and 4.5% of groundwater samples had, respectively, B, Fe, Al, Mn, and Sb exceeding Código Alimentario Argentino (CAA) guideline values. In contrast of the previously values descript, the corresponding to Cr, Be, Ni, Pb, Ag, Se, and Zn were found below the quantification limit. The presence of As and trace elements in groundwater represents an important issue because it can cause a public health problem.
Antidiabetic Medications and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Singh Siddharth , Singh Harkirat , Singh Preet Paul , Murad M. Hassan , Limburg Paul J.
Published: September 2013

Background: Antidiabetic medications (ADM) may modify colorectal cancer risk in patients with diabetes mellitus. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, evaluating the effect of metformin, thiazolidinediones (TZD), sulfonylureas, and insulin on colorectal cancer risk in diabetic patients.

Methods: We conducted a systematic search of multiple bibliographic databases, up to September 2012, for articles that evaluated exposure to metformin, TZD, sulfonylureas, and insulin, reported colorectal cancer risk in patients with diabetes mellitus, and reported OR or provided data for their estimation. Summary OR estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using the random-effects model.

Results: Fifteen studies reporting 13,871 cases of colorectal cancer in 840,787 patients with diabetes mellitus were included. Meta-analysis of observational studies showed an 11% reduction in colorectal cancer risk associated with metformin use (n = 9 studies; OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.81–0.99), whereas TZD use was not associated with colorectal cancer risk (n = 5 studies; OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.87–1.05). Conversely, a trend toward higher colorectal cancer risk was observed with sulfonylurea (n = 7 studies; OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.97–1.26) and insulin (n = 9 studies; OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.91–1.94) use, although these associations were not statistically significant. There was considerable heterogeneity across studies, partly explained by study location and adjustment for concomitant use of other ADMs. Post-hoc analysis of randomized controlled trials did not reveal any significant association between ADM and colorectal cancer risk.

Conclusions: Meta-analysis of published studies supports a protective association between metformin use and colorectal cancer risk in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Impact: Clinical trials on the chemopreventive effect of metformin against colorectal cancer are warranted. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(12); 2258–68. ©2013 AACR.
Lessons Learned from Radiation Oncology Clinical Trials
Authors: Liu Fei-Fei ,   for the workshop participants, Okunieff Paul , Bernhard Eric J. , Stone Helen B. , Yoo Stephen , Coleman C. Norman , Vikram Bhadrasain , Brown Martin , Buatti John , Guha Chandan
Published: September 2013

A workshop entitled “Lessons Learned from Radiation Oncology Trials” was held on December 7–8, 2011, in Bethesda, MD, to present and discuss some of the recently conducted radiation oncology clinical trials with a focus on those that failed to refute the null hypothesis. The objectives of this workshop were to summarize and examine the questions that these trials provoked, to assess the quality and limitations of the preclinical data that supported the hypotheses underlying these trials, and to consider possible solutions to these challenges for the design of future clinical trials. Several themes emerged from the discussions: (i) opportunities to learn from null-hypothesis trials through tissue and imaging studies; (ii) value of preclinical data supporting the design of combinatorial therapies; (iii) significance of validated biomarkers; (iv) necessity of quality assurance in radiotherapy delivery; (v) conduct of sufficiently powered studies to address the central hypotheses; and (vi) importance of publishing results of the trials regardless of the outcome. The fact that well-designed hypothesis-driven clinical trials produce null or negative results is expected given the limitations of trial design and complexities of cancer biology. It is important to understand the reasons underlying such null results, however, to effectively merge the technologic innovations with the rapidly evolving biology for maximal patient benefit through the design of future clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 19(22); 6089–100. ©2013 AACR.
Collagen XV: Exploring Its Structure and Role within the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Clementz Anthony George , Harris Ann
Published: September 2013

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a critical component of stroma-to-cell interactions that subsequently activate intracellular signaling cascades, many of which are associated with tumor invasion and metastasis. The ECM contains a wide range of proteins with multiple functions, including cytokines, cleaved cell-surface receptors, secreted epithelial cell proteins, and structural scaffolding. Fibrillar collagens, abundant in the normal ECM, surround cellular structures and provide structural integrity. However during the initial stages of invasive cancers, the ECM is among the first compartments to be compromised. Also present in the normal ECM is the nonfibrillar collagen XV, which is seen in the basement membrane zone but is lost prior to tumor metastasis in several organs. In contrast, the tumor microenvironment often exhibits increased synthesis of fibrillar collagen I and collagen IV, which are associated with fibrosis. The unique localization of collagen XV and its disappearance prior to tumor invasion suggests a fundamental role in maintaining basement membrane integrity and preventing the migration of tumor cells across this barrier. This review examines the structure of collagen XV, its functional domains, and its involvement in cell-surface receptor–mediated signaling pathways, thus providing further insight into its critical role in the suppression of malignancy. Mol Cancer Res; 11(12); 1481–6. ©2013 AACR.
Pattern of Voiding Dysfunction after Acute Brainstem Infarction
Authors: Yum Kyu Sun , Na Sang-Jun , Lee Kyung-Yul , Kim Jihoon , Oh Seung Hun , Kim Yong-Duk , Yoon Bora , Heo Ji Hoe , Lee Kee Ook
Published: September 2013

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the patterns of voiding dysfunction according to the locations of brainstem lesions. Methods: Between November 2008 and December 2011, a total of 30 patients participated in this study. All 30 subjects, consisting of 16 men and 14 women, aged between 41 and 82 years (mean age, 63.0 ± 11.0 years) underwent a urodynamic study within 7 days after the onset of a stroke. Results: Twenty-one (70%) patients had a pontine lesion and 9 (30%) had a medullary lesion. Fourteen of these patients (46.7%) had bladder storage disorder, 7 patients (23.3%) had bladder emptying disorder, and 9 patients (30%) had a normal report. Five of the patients who had a medullary lesion (55.6%) had bladder emptying disorder, whereas only 2 patients who had a pontine lesion (9.5%) had bladder emptying disorder. Thirteen patients who had a pontine lesion (61.9%) showed bladder storage disorder. Discussion: The descending pathway from the midbrain tegmentum is inhibitory, and the pathway from the pontine tegmentum is stimulatory. Because of their location pontine lesions could disrupt the descending fibers of the midbrain tegmentum and medullary lesions could disrupt the descending fibers of the pontine tegmentum.
Short- and Long-Term Survival of Esophageal Cancer Patients Treated at the Cancer Institute of Iran
Authors: Mir Mohammad Reza , Rajabpour Mojtaba Vand , Delarestaghi Mojtaba Maleki , Hadji Mrayam , Harirchi Iraj , Mir Parisa , Mir Ali , Lashkari Marzieh , Zendehdel Kazem
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Little data is available on the prognosis of esophageal cancer (EC) in Iran. We studied the short- and long-term survival of EC patients treated at the Cancer Institute of Iran. Methods: 619 patients were followed who had been operated in the years 1997-2006. The 1-month to 5-year survival rates of EC and hazard ratios (HR) for different prognostic factors were estimated. Results: Median survival was 11.5 months and 5-year survival was 10%. Patients at the advanced stage had a 2.1-fold higher risk of mortality compared to the early stage (95% CI 1.2-3.4). One-month mortality decreased from 12.2 in 1997-1999 to 9.1% in 2003-2006. In the first month, patients who were diagnosed in 2003-2006 had a significantly (60%) lower HR compared to 1997-1999 (HR = 0.4, 95% CI 0.1-0.9). In addition, patients with cardiopulmonary complications had an 11.7-fold higher HR compared to patients without complications (95% CI 4.7-29.3). Conclusions: The 5-year survival rate for operated EC patients was considerably low in Iran. Cardiopulmonary complications were the strong prognostic factors for first-month mortality. We suggest improving the pre- and postoperative care of EC to control these complications. Regular monitoring of patient survival is recommended to evaluate the effect of this intervention.
Novel Small Leucine-Rich Repeat Protein Podocan Is a Negative Regulator of Migration and Proliferation of Smooth Muscle Cells, Modulates Neointima Formation, and Is Expressed in Human Atheroma
Authors: Hutter Randolph , Huang Li , Speidl Walter S. , Giannarelli Chiara , Trubin Paul , Bauriedel Gerhard , Klotman Mary E. , Fuster Valentin , Badimon Juan J. , Klotman Paul E.
Published: September 2013

Background—

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) migration and proliferation critically influence the clinical course of vascular disease. We tested the effect of the novel small leucine-rich repeat protein podocan on SMC migration and proliferation using a podocan-deficient mouse in combination with a model of arterial injury and aortic explant SMC culture. In addition, we examined the effect of overexpression of the human form of podocan on human SMCs and tested for podocan expression in human atherosclerosis. In all these conditions, we concomitantly evaluated the Wnt-TCF (T-cell factor) pathway.

Methods and Results—

Podocan was strongly and selectively expressed in arteries of wild-type mice after injury. Podocan-deficient mice showed increased arterial lesion formation compared with wild-type littermates in response to injury (
P
<0.05). Also, SMC proliferation was increased in arteries of podocan-deficient mice compared with wild-type (
P
<0.05). In vitro, migration and proliferation were increased in podocan-deficient SMCs and were normalized by transfection with the wild-type podocan gene (
P
<0.05). In addition, upregulation of the Wnt-TCF pathway was found in SMCs of podocan-deficient mice both in vitro and in vivo. On the other hand, podocan overexpression in human SMCs significantly reduced SMC migration and proliferation, inhibiting the Wnt-TCF pathway. Podocan and a Wnt-TCF pathway marker were differently expressed in human coronary restenotic versus primary lesions.

Conclusions—

Podocan appears to be a potent negative regulator of the migration and proliferation of both murine and human SMCs. The lack of podocan results in excessive arterial repair and prolonged SMC proliferation, which likely is mediated by the Wnt-TCF pathway.
Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor–Mediated and Nitric Oxide–Dependent Renal Vasodilator Response to Compound 21 Unmasked by Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats In Vivo
Authors: Brouwers Sofie , Smolders Ilse , Massie Ann , Dupont Alain G.
Published: September 2013

Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT
2
R)–mediated vasodilation has been demonstrated in different vascular beds in vitro and in perfused organs. In vivo studies, however, consistently failed to disclose renal vasodilator responses to compound 21, a selective AT
2
R agonist, even after angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade. Here, we investigated in vivo whether angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition, reducing endogenous angiotensin II levels, could unmask the effects of selective AT
2
R stimulation on blood pressure and renal hemodynamics in normotensive and hypertensive rats. After pretreatment with the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, intravenous administration of compound 21 did not affect blood pressure and induced dose-dependent renal vasodilator responses in spontaneously hypertensive but not in normotensive rats. The D
1
receptor agonist fenoldopam, used as positive control, reduced blood pressure and renal vascular resistance in both strains. The AT
2
R antagonist PD123319 and the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NMMA (
N

G

-monomethyl-L-arginine acetate) abolished the renal vasodilator response to compound 21 without affecting responses to fenoldopam. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin partially inhibited the renal vascular response to compound 21, whereas the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist icatibant was without effect. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition unmasked a renal vasodilator response to selective AT
2
R stimulation in vivo, mediated by nitric oxide and partially by prostaglandins. AT
2
R may have a pathophysiological role to modulate renal hemodynamic effects of angiotensin II in the hypertensive state.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Genetic Variant rs5065 and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease in the General Community
Authors: Cannone Valentina , Huntley Brenda K. , Olson Timothy M. , Heublein Denise M. , Scott Christopher G. , Bailey Kent R. , Redfield Margaret M. , Rodeheffer Richard J. , Burnett John C.
Published: September 2013

We analyzed the phenotype associated with the atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) genetic variant rs5065 in a random community-based sample. We also assessed and compared the biological action of 2 concentrations (10
−10
mol/L, 10
–8
mol/L) of ANP and ANP-RR, the protein variant encoded by the minor allele of rs5065, on activation of the guanylyl cyclase (GC)-A and GC-B receptors, production of the second messenger 3′,5′-cGMP in endothelial cells, and endothelial permeability. rs5065 genotypes were determined in a cross-sectional adult cohort from Olmsted County, MN (n=1623). Genotype frequencies for rs5065 were 75%, 24%, and 1% for TT, TC, and CC, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the C allele was associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular accident (hazard ratio, 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–1.86;
P
=0.009) and higher prevalence of myocardial infarction (odds ratio, 1.82; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–3.09;
P
=0.026). ANP-RR 10
−8
mol/L activated the GC-A receptor (83.07±8.31 versus no treatment 0.18±0.04 per 6 wells;
P
=0.006), whereas ANP-RR 10
−10
mol/L did not. Neither 10
−8
mol/L nor 10
−10
mol/L ANP-RR activated GC-B receptor (
P
=0.10,
P
=0.35). ANP 10
−8
mol/L and ANP-RR 10
−8
mol/L stimulated 3′,5′-cGMP production in endothelial cells similarly (
P
=0.58). Both concentrations of ANP-RR significantly enhanced human aortic endothelial cell permeability (69 versus 29 relative fluorescence units [RFUs],
P
=0.012; 58 versus 39 RFUs,
P
=0.015) compared with ANP. The minor allele of rs5065 was associated with increased cardiovascular risk. ANP-RR activated the GC-A receptor, increased 3′,5′-cGMP in endothelial cells, and when compared with ANP, augmented endothelial cell permeability.
Evaluating the Framingham Hypertension Risk Prediction Model in Young Adults
Authors: Carson April P. , Lewis Cora E. , Jacobs David R. , Peralta Carmen A. , Steffen Lyn M. , Bower Julie K. , Person Sharina D. , Muntner Paul
Published: September 2013

A prediction model was developed in the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) to evaluate the short-term risk of hypertension. Our goal was to determine the predictive ability of the FHS hypertension model in a cohort of young adults advancing into middle age and compare it with the predictive ability of prehypertension and individual components of the FHS model. We studied 4388 participants, aged 18 to 30 years without hypertension at baseline, enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study, who participated in 2 consecutive examinations occurring 5 years apart between the baseline (1985–1986) and year 25 examination (2010–2011). Weibull regression was used to assess the association of the FHS model overall, individual components of the FHS model, and prehypertension with incident hypertension. During the 25-year follow-up period, 1179 participants developed incident hypertension. The FHS hypertension model (c-index=0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.83–0.85) performed well in discriminating those who did and did not develop hypertension and was better than prehypertension alone (c-index=0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.73). The predicted risk from the FHS hypertension model was systematically lower than the observed hypertension incidence initially (χ
2
=249.4;
P
<0.001) but demonstrated a good fit after recalibration (χ
2
=14.6;
P
=0.067). In summary, the FHS model performed better than prehypertension and may be a useful tool for identifying young adults with a high risk for developing hypertension.