bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GK-1 Improves the Immune Response Induced by Bone Marrow Dendritic Cells Loaded with MAGE-AX in Mice with Melanoma
Authors: Piñón-Zárate Gabriela , Herrera-Enríquez Miguel Ángel , Hernández-Téllez Beatriz , Jarquín-Yáñez Katia , Castell-Rodríguez Andrés Eliú
Published: October 2014

The aim of dendritic cell (DC) vaccination in cancer is to induce tumor-specific effector T cells that may reduce and control tumor mass. Immunostimulants that could drive a desired immune response are necessary to be found in order to generate a long lasting tumor immune response. GK-1 peptide, derived fromTaenia crassiceps, induces not only increase in TNFα, IFNγ, and MCP-1 production in cocultures of DCs and T lymphocytes but also immunological protection against influenza virus. Moreover, the aim of this investigation is the use of GK-1 as a bone marrow DCs (BMDCs) immunostimulant targeted with MAGE antigen; thus, BMDC may be used as immunotherapy against murine melanoma. GK-1 induced in BMDCs a meaningful increment of CD86 and IL-12. In addition, the use of BMDCs TNFα/GK-1/MAGE-AX induced the highest survival and the smallest tumors in mice. Besides, the treatment helped to increase CD8 lymphocytes levels and to produce IFNγin lymph nodes. Moreover, the histopathological analysis showed that BMDCs treated with GK-1/TNFαand loaded with MAGE-AX induced the apparition of more apoptotic and necrotic areas in tumors than in mice without treatment. These results highlight the properties of GK-1 as an immunostimulant of DCs and suggest as a potential candidate the use of this immunotherapy against cancer disease.
Biochemical Evaluation of Silver Nanoparticles in Wistar Rats
Authors: Adeyemi Oluyomi Stephen , Adewumi Ifeoluwa
Published: October 2014

Background. Silver nanoparticles have found wider and increasing biomedical applications due to their broad antimicrobial characteristics. However, toxicity of nanoparticles is a subject of continued controversy, thus necessitating further studies in this direction.Objectives. This study investigated the biochemical effects of silver nanoparticles in Wistar rats.Materials and Methods. Forty male rats were randomly distributed into eight experimental groups of five. Group A served as the control and received distilled water. Groups B to H were orally exposed to varying concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) at 100, 1000, and 5000 mg/kg daily for 7, 14, and 21 days alternately. Following cessation of treatments, rats were sacrificed and the blood and other vital organs were collected and prepared as specimens for biochemical analysis.Results. Administration of AgNPs to rats did not produce significant loss in feed intake and body weight. However, rat exposure to AgNPs caused significant alterations to levels of serum and tissue AST, ALT, and ALP. At the 100 mg/kg AgNPs exposure, rat serum and tissue AST and ALT levels were significantly decreased (P< 0.05). In contrast, AgNPs administration elevated (P< 0.05) ALP levels in rat serum and tissues.Conclusion. We show evidence that AgNPs administration to Wistar rats altered some biochemical parameters.
Evaluation of Production Parameters for Maximum Lipase Production by P. stutzeri MTCC 5618 and Scale-Up in Bioreactor
Authors: Thakur Vishal , Tewari R. , Sharma Rohit
Published: October 2014

Intracellular lipase producer screened from the library available in the laboratory, identified through 16S rRNA as Pseudomonas stutzeri, was studied for maximum enzyme production in shake flask. The work was intended to evaluate the effect of different physicochemical factors like carbon, nitrogen, metal ions, surfactant, inoculum, pH, temperature, agitation, and aeration on lipase production. Optimized media showed 1.62-fold increase in lipase production when compared to basal media. Scale-up of lipase in in situ bioreactor showed reduction in fermentation time in both basal and optimized media, giving 41 and 99 U/mg of lipase activity after 48 h of fermentation.
Alterations of Blood Pressure and ECG following Two-Week Consumption of Berberis integerrima Fruit Extract
Authors: Joukar Siyavash , Mahdavi Naser
Published: October 2014

In light of the popularity and also the various nutritional and medicinal properties of Berberis integerrima, this study was conducted to assess the influence of its aqueous extract on hemodynamic and electrocardiogram (ECG) indices of rat. Animals were divided to control (CTL), B50, B100, and B200 groups that orally received tap water, aqueous extracts of B. integerrima fruit 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, for two weeks and on day 15, data were recorded. Different doses of barberry fruit extract had no significant effect on blood pressure, heart rate, RR interval, P duration, and Q wave amplitude of electrocardiogram. Extract administration was associated with an incremental trend in PR interval that was not statistically significant. Higher doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of extract significantly increased the QRS interval (P<0.01 versus CTL and B50 groups) but decreased the QTc interval (P<0.01 versus CTL group and P<0.001 versus B50 group), the JT interval, and TpTe interval (P<0.001 versus CTL and B50 groups). The results suggest that high doses of barberry extract definitely prolong the depolarization phase and shorten the repolarization phase of ventricular muscle and hence induce alteration in heart electrical conductivity.
The Utility and Limitations of the Transfibular Approach in Ankle Trauma Surgery
Authors: Yassin Mustafa , Garti Avraham , Khatib Muhammad , Weisbrot Moshe , Ashkenazi Uzi , Ram Edward , Robinson Dror
Published: October 2014

The commonly used extensive approaches to the distal tibia include the posteromedial and anterolateral approaches. The current report describes several cases performed using this technique establishing a rationale and safe zone for performing a transfibular approach to the distal tibia. The advantages of such approach are the excellent visualization of the lateral tibia and the articular space. The utilization of this approach involves the risk of injury to the anterior tibial vessels and to the superficial peroneal nerve as well as a requirement for syndesmosis reconstruction. The recommendation is to utilize this approach in cases of severe comminution of the lateral tibia with a relatively intact medial tibia.
Hybrid Transmission Power Control for Wireless Body Sensor Systems
Authors: Lee Woosik , Lee Byoung-Dai , Kim Namgi
Published: October 2014

In wireless body sensor network systems (WB-SNSs), the sensor nodes have very limited battery power because they are tiny, lightweight, and wearable or implantable. As a result, WB-SNSs require a very efficient transmission power control (TPC) algorithm for effectively reducing energy consumption and extending the lifetime of sensor nodes. To achieve this goal, we propose a novel TPC algorithm referred to as hybrid TPC. The hybrid TPC algorithm adaptively selects a conservative or an aggressive control mechanism depending on current channel conditions. The conservative control mechanism, which slowly changes transmission power level (TPL), is suitable in a dynamic environment. On the other hand, the aggressive control mechanism, which rapidly changes TPL, is ideal in a static environment. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid TPC algorithm, we implemented various TPC algorithms and compared their performances against the hybrid TPC algorithm in different channel environments. The experimental results showed that the hybrid TPC algorithm outperformed other TPC algorithms in all channel environments.
Congenital Aniridia: Clinic, Genetics, Therapeutics, and Prognosis
Authors: Calvão-Pires Pedro , Santos-Silva R. , Falcão-Reis F. , Rocha-Sousa A.
Published: October 2014

Congenital aniridia is a rare condition related to a deficiency in the PAX6 gene expression, which may occur as a result of a family inheritance or a sporadic occurrence. Additionally, this condition may occur as an isolated ocular phenotype or in association with a systemic syndrome. The most common abnormality is iris hypoplasia; however, a panocular disease which also affects the cornea, anterior chamber of the eye, lens, and the posterior segment with presence of optic nerve and foveal hypoplasia is also evident. The development of keratopathy, glaucoma, and cataract is frequent and its presence has implications in the patient’s visual acuity. Managing aniridia is challenging since the focus is on treating the previously mentioned disorders, and the outcomes are often disappointing. In this paper, we shall review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical characteristics of patients with aniridia. We shall also make a review of the therapeutic options for the several conditions affecting this syndrome and consider the genetics and prognostic factors.
Immunosuppressive Effects of A‐Type Procyanidin Oligomers from Cinnamomum tamala
Authors: Chen Liang , Yang Yang , Yuan Pulong , Yang Yifu , Chen Kaixian , Jia Qi , Li Yiming
Published: October 2014

Cinnamon barks extracts have been reported to regulate immune function; however, the component(s) in cinnamon barks responsible for this effect is/are not yet clear. The aim of this study is to find out the possible component(s) that can be used as therapeutic agents for immune‐related diseases from cinnamon bark. In this study, the immunosuppressive effects of fraction (named CT‐F) and five procyanidin oligomers compounds, cinnamtannin B1, cinnamtannin D1 (CTD‐1), parameritannin A1, procyanidin B2, and procyanidin C1, from Cinnamomum tamala or Cinnamomum cassia bark were examined on splenocytes proliferation model induced by ConA or LPS. Then, the effects of activated compound CTD‐1 on cytokine production and 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) induced delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) response were detected to evaluate the immunosuppressive activity of CTD‐1. It was found that CT‐F and CTD‐1 significantly inhibited the splenocyte proliferation induced by ConA or LPS. CTD‐1 dose‐dependently reduced the level of IFN‐γ and IL‐2 and intensively suppressed DNFB‐induced DTH responses. These findings suggest that the immunosuppressive activities of cinnamon bark are in part due to procyanidin oligomers. CTD‐1 may be a potential therapeutic agent for immune‐related diseases.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Residual Stress in Cold-Forged Parts
Authors: Neves Frederico Ozanan , Oliviera Thiago Luis Lara , Braga Durval Uchoas , Silva Alex Sander Chaves da
Published: October 2014

Residual stresses are those stresses that remain in a body when there is no external load applied. Numerous factors can induce residual stresses in the material, including cold forming. Thermal treatments of steel are widely used because they can improve the mechanical properties of the steel, such as toughness, tenacity, and resistance; however, thermal treatments can also produce residual stresses. This study aims to analyze the residual stresses present in a cold-forged part after heat treatments. Half-cylinder samples of AISI 1045 steel were cold-forged, and a wedge tool was pressed into their surface, causing a strain gradient. The samples were then heat-treated by annealing, normalizing, quenching, or quenching and tempering. A numerical simulation was also performed to aid in choosing the measurement points in the samples. The results show that residual stresses are dependent on the heat treatment and on the intensity and nature of previous residual stresses in the body.
Target Therapy in Hematological Malignances: New Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Podhorecka Monika , Markowicz Justyna , Szymczyk Agnieszka , Pawlowski Johannes
Published: October 2014

Apart from radio- and chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) represent a new, more selective tool in the treatment of hematological malignancies. MoAbs bind with the specific antigens of the tumors. This interaction is a basis for targeted therapies which exhibit few side effects and significant antitumor activity. This review provides an overview of the functional characteristics of MoAbs, with some examples of their clinical application. The promising results in the treatment of hematological malignancies have led to the more frequent usage of MoAbs in the therapy. Development of MoAbs is a subject of extensive research. They are a promising method of cancer treatment in the future.
Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Atorvastatin Calcium, Metformin Hydrochloride, and Glimepiride in Bulk and Combined Tablet Dosage Form
Authors: Ramesh Devi , Habibuddin Mohammad
Published: October 2014

A simple, rapid, and precise RP-HPLC method for simultaneous analysis of atorvastatin calcium, metformin hydrochloride, and glimepiride in bulk and its pharmaceutical formulations has been developed and validated. These drugs were separated by using Grace Smart Altima C-8 column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5-μm) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile : phosphate buffer (60 : 40 (v/v), pH 3.0) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, injection volume 25 µL, and detection at 235 nm. Metformin, atorvastatin, and glimepiride were eluted with retention times of 2.57 min, 7.06 min, and 9.39 min, respectively. The method was validated for accuracy, precision, linearity, specificity, and sensitivity in accordance with ICH (Q2B) guidelines. The results of all the validation parameters were found to be within the acceptable limits. The calibration plots were linear over the concentration ranges from 10 to 150 µg/mL, 20 to 200 µg/mL, and 10 to 150 µg/mL for atorvastatin, metformin, and glimepiride, respectively. The accuracy and precision were found to be between 98.2%–105% and ≤2% for three drugs. Developed method was successfully applied for the determination of the drugs in tablet dosage form and recovery was found to be >98% for three drugs. The degradation products produced as a result of stress studies did not interfere with drug peaks.
Malnutrition Markers and Serum Ghrelin Levels in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Montazerifar Farzaneh , Karajibani Mansour , Gorgij Farnia , Akbari Ommolbanin
Published: October 2014

Objective. The aim of study was to investigate the changes levels of serum ghrelin in HD patients and its relationship to some malnutrition markers compared with healthy controls.Methods. Forty-five patients on hemodialysis and forty healthy controls were studied. Biochemical parameters and serum ghrelin levels were measured. Both daily dietary intakes and body mass index (BMI) assessments were performed for evaluation of nutritional status.Results. Ghrelin concentrations were significantly reduced in patients undergoing hemodialysis when compared to healthy controls (5±0.68(1.1–18.5) pg/mLversus7.8±0.84(2.4–18.3) pg/mL;P=0.004). BMI and serum albumin in HD patients were markedly reduced compared to controls. The patients with an insufficient intake of energy and protein demonstrated slightly lower levels of serum ghrelin. A negative correlation between serum ghrelin concentration with age (r=-0.34,P=0.02), BUN (r=-0.26,P<0.01), and serum creatinine (r=-0.27,P<0.01) was observed in HD patients.Conclusions. The findings suggest that decreased ghrelin levels in HD patients might be associated with anorexia. Further studies are needed to determine changes in serum ghrelin levels during dialysis and to clarify whether the decrease in ghrelin levels contributes to the malnutrition that is common in these patients.
Complexity-Based Modeling of Scientific Capital: An Outline of Mathematical Theory
Authors: Katchanov Yurij L. , Shmatko Natalia A.
Published: October 2014

The paper intends to contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon of scientific capital. Scientific capital is a well-known concept for measuring and assessing the accumulated recognition and the specific scientific power. The concept of scientific capital developed by Bourdieu is used in international social science research to explain a set of scholarly properties and practices. Mathematical modeling is applied as a lens through which the scientific capital is addressed. The principal contribution of this paper is an axiomatic characterization of scientific capital in terms of natural axioms. The application of the axiomatic method to scientific capital reveals novel insights into problem still not covered by mathematical modeling. Proposed model embraces the interrelations between separate sociological variables, providing a unified sociological view of science. Suggested microvariational principle is based upon postulate, which affirms that (under suitable conditions) the observed state of the agent in scientific field maximizes scientific capital. Its value can be roughly imagined as a volume of social differences. According to the considered macrovariational principle, the actual state of scientific field makes so-called energy functional (which is associated with the distribution of scientific capital) minimal.
Miniopen Repair of Ruptured Achilles Tendon in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Eid Abdelsalam
Published: October 2014

Background. Acute degenerative Achilles tendons ruptures may be managed either operatively or nonoperatively with the superiority of the operative treatment in reducing the risk of rerupture. Acute rupture of Achilles tendon is commonly seen in diabetic patients. Open techniques for Achilles tendon repair have been associated with significant complications as deep infection and wound-related problems. Patients and Methods. Thirteen type II diabetic patients with acute degenerative rupture of the Achilles tendon were managed by miniopen repair augmented by peroneus brevis tendon. Results. All repairs healed successfully. The patients were able to return to preinjury level of activity after a mean of 5 months. The mean ATRS score improved from 15.1 preoperatively to 74.8 postoperatively. The mean Leppilahti ankle score was 59.6. Three patients suffered from superficial wound infection which was successfully managed. However, no patients suffered any major complications such as DVT, deep infection, or reruptures during the period of the study. Conclusion. Repair of acute degenerative tear of the Achilles tendon with peroneus brevis tendon augmentation could be successfully performed through a miniopen technique with minimization of wound complications in diabetic patients.
ADLD: A Novel Graphical Representation of Protein Sequences and Its Application
Authors: Wang Lei , Peng Hui , Zheng Jinhua
Published: October 2014

To facilitate the intuitional analysis of protein sequences, a novel graphical representation of protein sequences called ADLD (Alignment Diagonal Line Diagram) is introduced in this paper first, and then a new ADLD based method is proposed and utilized to analyze the similarity/dissimilarity of protein sequences. Comparing with existing methods, our ADLD based method is proved to be effective in the similarity/dissimilarity analysis of protein sequences and have the merits of good intuition, visuality, and simplicity. The examinations of the similarities/dissimilarities for both the 16 different ND5 proteins and the 29 different spike proteins illustrate the utility of our ADLD based approach.
Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Anorganic Bovine Bone (Bio-Oss) and Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite (Ostim) in Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation
Authors: Shirmohammadi Adileh , Roshangar Leila , Chitsazi Mohammad Taghi , Pourabbas Reza , Faramarzie Masoumeh , Rahmanpour Nasrin
Published: October 2014

Purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of anorganic bovine bone (Bio-Oss) in comparison with nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (Ostim) in sinus floor augmentation. Methods. Ten patients aged 40–80 were selected. All the patients needed sinus floor augmentation due to insufficient bone for simultaneous implant placement. The patients underwent panoramic radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) prior to surgical procedure. After lifting the sinus membrane, Bio-Oss and Ostim are randomly grafted at one of the two sides. Biopsies were obtained from areas identified 5 months after the surgery and before implant placement and then were prepared for histological analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test for comparison of histological and radiological parameters between the two groups. Results. Histological findings revealed a significant increase in percentages of new bone in the Ostim group (P=0.015). Furthermore, new bone density was greater with Ostim compared to Bio-Oss (P=0.038); however, the difference in height increase after surgery did not reach statistical significance (P=0.191). Conclusion. Despite the limitations of this trial, Ostim and Bio-Oss are useful biomaterials in sinus augmentation and Ostim seems to be even more effective in new bone formation.
Effects of Modulation Techniques (Manchester Code, NRZ or RZ) on the Operation of Hybrid WDM/TDM Passive Optical Networks
Authors: Nyachionjeka Kumbirayi , Makondo Wellington
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the performance and feasibility of a hybrid wavelength division multiplexing/time division multiplexing passive optical network (WDM/TDM PON) system with 128 optical network units (ONUs) is analysed. In this system, triple play services (video, voice and data) are successfully communicated through a distance of up to 28 km. Moreover, we analysed and compared the performance of various modulation formats for different distances in the proposed hybrid WDM/TDM PON. NRZ rectangular emerged as the most appropriate modulation format for triple play transmission in the proposed hybrid PON.
Testing an Online, Dynamic Consent Portal for Large Population Biobank Research
Authors: Thiel Daniel B. , Platt Jodyn , Platt Tevah , King Susan B. , Fisher Nicole , Shelton Robert , Kardia Sharon L.R.
Published: October 2014

Background: Michigan's BioTrust for Health, a public health research biobank comprised of residual dried bloodspot (DBS) cards from newborn screening contains over 4 million samples collected without written consent. Participant-centric initiatives are IT tools that hold great promise to address the consent challenges in biobank research. Methods: Working with Private Access™ Inc., a pioneer in patient-centric web solutions, we created and pilot tested a dynamic informed consent simulation, paired with an educational website, focusing on consent for research utilizing DBSs in Michigan's BioTrust for Health. Results: Out of 187 pilot testers recruited in 2 groups, 137 completed the consent simulation and exit survey. Over 50% indicated their willingness to set up an account if the simulation went live and to recommend it to others. Participants raised concerns about the process of identity verification and appeared to have little experience with sharing health information online. Conclusions: Applying online, dynamic approaches to address the consent challenges raised by biobanks with legacy sample collections should be explored, given the positive reaction to our pilot test and the strong preference for active consent. Balancing security and privacy with accessibility and ease of use will continue to be a challenge.
Acute Acidosis Attenuates Leucine Stimulated Signal Transduction and Protein Synthesis in Rat Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Sood Sumita , Chen Yu , McIntire Kevin , Rabkin Ralph
Published: October 2014

Background: Critical illnesses are often complicated by acute metabolic acidosis, which if persistent, adversely affects outcome. Among the harmful effects that it might cause are impaired utilization of nutrients, increased proteolysis and depressed protein synthesis, leading to muscle wasting. As the amino acid leucine stimulates protein synthesis by activating mTOR signaling, we explored whether in acidosis, impaired leucine-stimulated signaling might be a contributor to the depressed protein synthesis. Methods: Male pair-fed rats were gavaged with NH4Cl (acidosis) or NaCl (control) for 2 days and then gavaged once with leucine and sacrificed 45 min later. Extensor digitorum longus muscles were isolated, incubated with or without leucine and protein synthesis measured. The anterior tibial muscle signaling was analysed by Western immunobloting. Results: Despite pair-feeding, acidotic rats lost body and muscle weight vs. controls. Moreover, leucine-induced protein synthesis in isolated muscle from acidotic rats was impaired. In-vivo, 45 min after an oral leucine load, anterior tibial muscle mTOR and 4E-BP1 phosphorylation increased significantly and comparably in control and acidotic rats. In contrast, leucine-stimulated phosphorylation of S6K1, a regulator of translation initiation and protein synthesis, was attenuated to approximately 56% of the control value (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study reveals that an acute metabolic acidosis impairs leucine-stimulated protein synthesis and activation of signaling downstream of mTOR at the level of S6K1. We propose that this S6K1abnormality may account in part, for the resistance to leucine-stimulated muscle protein synthesis, and may thereby contribute to the impaired nutrient utilization and ultimately the muscle wasting that develops in acidosis.
Focal Lesions in the Cirrhotic Liver: Their Pivotal Role in Gadoxetic Acid-Enhanced MRI and Recognition by the Western Guidelines
Authors: Golfieri Rita , Garzillo Giorgio , Ascanio Salvatore , Renzulli Matteo
Published: October 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern, and early HCC diagnosis is a primary radiological concern. The goal of imaging liver cirrhosis is the early identification of high-grade dysplastic nodules/early HCC since their treatment is associated with a higher chance of radical cure and lower recurrence rates. The newly introduced MRI contrast agent gadoxetic acid (gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid, Gd-EOB-DTPA) has enabled the concurrent assessment of tumor vascularity and hepatocyte-specific contrast enhancement during the hepatobiliary phase (HBP), which can help to detect and characterize smaller HCCs and their precursors. HBP-EOB-MRI identifies hypovascular HCC nodules that are difficult to detect using ultrasonography or computed tomography, which do not show the diagnostic HCC hallmarks of arterial washin and portal/delayed washout. During the HBP, typical HCC and early HCC appear hypointense on EOB-MRI, whereas low-grade dysplastic or regenerative nodules appear as iso- or hyperintense lesions. The diagnostic accuracy of EOB-MRI for the diagnosis of early HCC is approximately 95-100%. One third of hypovascular hypointense nodules in HBP become hypervascular ‘progressed' HCC, with a 1- and 3-year cumulative incidence of 25 and 41%, respectively. Therefore, these hypovascular nodules should be strictly followed up or definitely treated as typical HCC. Due to this capability of identifying the precursors and biological behavior of HCC, EOB-MRI has rapidly become a key imaging tool for the diagnosis of HCC and its precursors, despite the scarce MRI availability throughout Europe. With increasing experience, EOB-MRI may eventually be established as the diagnostic imaging modality of choice in this setting. Full recognition by the Western EASL-AASLD guidelines is expected.
Duration of Stable Disease Is Associated with Overall Survival in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Sorafenib
Authors: Arizumi Tadaaki , Ueshima Kazuomi , Chishina Hirokazu , Kono Masashi , Takita Mashiro , Kitai Satoshi , Inoue Tatsuo , Yada Norihisa , Hagiwara Satoru , Minami Yasunori , Sakurai Toshiharu , Nishida Naoshi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: October 2014

Background: Sorafenib is a molecular-targeting agent showing improved overall survival (OS) for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although tumor dormancy, characterized by stable tumor status or stable disease (SD) without tumor regression, is a unique feature of sorafenib treatment, the contribution of SD to OS remains debatable. This study aimed to clarify the correlation between SD periods and OS in patients with HCC treated with sorafenib. Methods: From May 2009 to January 2013, 269 patients with advanced-stage HCC were treated with sorafenib at the Kinki University Hospital. The antitumor response of sorafenib was evaluated in 158 patients using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, and patients with SD were divided into two subgroups according to the median duration of SD: short SD (<3 months) and long SD (≥3 months). The relationship between the duration of SD and OS was analyzed among patients with complete (CR) and partial response (PR), and long and short SD using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: The median OS was 5.7 months in the short SD, 20.8 months in the long SD and 17.9 months in the CR + PR group. Although the duration of OS was significantly longer in the long SD group than the short SD group, no difference in OS was detected between the patients with CR + PR and patients with long SD. The impact of long SD on OS could be as strong as that of CR + PR. Conclusion: Achievement of long SD is one of the important goals for improving survival in patients with HCC treated with sorafenib.
Decreased Blood Flow after Sorafenib Administration Is an Imaging Biomarker to Predict Overall Survival in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Arizumi Tadaaki , Ueshima Kazuomi , Chishina Hirokazu , Kono Masashi , Takita Masahiro , Kitai Satoshi , Inoue Tatsuo , Yada Norihisa , Hagiwara Satoru , Minami Yasunori , Sakurai Toshiharu , Nishida Naoshi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: October 2014

Background: Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor targeting Raf and protein tyrosine kinases, which are involved in cell growth and tumor angiogenesis. Sorafenib administration induces temporary inhibition of tumor growth and a decrease in arterial blood flow in a considerable number of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. We retrospectively evaluated the association between decreased blood flow and the overall survival (OS) of HCC patients after the initiation of sorafenib therapy. Patients and Methods: Therapeutic responses of 158 advanced HCC patients with hypervascular tumors who had received sorafenib for more than 1 month were analyzed. To assess their therapeutic response, patients underwent radiological evaluation before and every 4-6 weeks after the initiation of sorafenib treatment. After the classification of patients into three groups based on the change in arterial enhancement during treatment (no change, decrease and disappearance), the OS of each group was compared using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Statistically significant differences in OS were observed among the three groups (p < 0.001). A decrease or disappearance of arterial enhancement was significantly associated with improved OS compared to patients with no change in arterial enhancement; the median OS was 19.9 months (95% confidence interval, CI, 16.4-24.5 months) and 6.0 months (95% CI, 4.0-8.8 months), respectively (p < 0.001). However, there was no difference in OS between the decrease and disappearance groups (p = 0.88). Conclusion: We conclude that decreased arterial enhancement during sorafenib treatment was associated with the longest OS and could therefore reflect an effective response.
Adjuvant Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Curative Treatment
Authors: Jeng Wen-Juei , Lin Chen-Chun , Chen Wei-Ting , Sheen I-Shyan , Lin Chun-Yen , Lin Shi-Ming
Published: October 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy in the world. Although resection and various locoregional therapies can achieve eradication or complete ablation of small HCC, HCC recurrence after these therapies is still common. Although candidates for medical ablation usually exhibit compensated hepatic functional status, the frequent recurrence of HCC after successful ablation contributes to short survival. Therefore, attempts to prevent HCC recurrence are essential to prolong survival. Efforts in preventing HCC recurrence after curative therapies include prevention of early recurrence by improving liver immunity and eliminating microscopic tumor foci or micrometastases, and prevention of late recurrence by reducing the hepatitis activity and using antiviral therapies based on viral suppression/eradication. In HCC with vascular invasion, adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization should be considered to provide better control. Whether the adjuvant use of sorafenib may suppress microscopic tumor foci or micrometastases may be unveiled in the near future. This review article will update the algorithms, novel medication or study drugs in the prevention of HCC after curative therapies.
miRNA-205 Is a Candidate Tumor Suppressor that Targets ZEB2 in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Zhi , Tang Zheng-Yan , He Yao , Liu Long-Fei , Li Dong-Jie , Chen Xiang
Published: October 2014

SummaryBackground: This study aims to characterize the function of downregulated MicroRNA miR-205 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and show how the downstream zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) is negatively regulated by miR-205. Materials and Methods: The expression of miR-205 was detected in RCC and adjacent non-tumor tissues using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The expression of miR-205 and ZEB2 was detected in RCC cell lines using real-time PCR. The luciferase reporter assay was used to assess ZEB2 as a target of miR-205. Protein levels of ZEB2, E-cadherin, and vimentin were measured by western blot after overexpression of miR-205 in ACHN cells. In vivo functions of miR-205 in ACHN cells were measured by MTT assays, migration and invasion assays, and flow cytometry. Results: MiR-205 was significantly downregulated in RCC samples and cell lines compared with matched non-tumor tissues and HK-2 cells, respectively. No significant difference was found in miR-205 expression between well differentiated and poorly to moderately differentiated groups or between phase I and phase II-III. ZEB2 was upregulated in RCC cell lines compared with expression in HK-2 cells. Upregulation of miR-205 expression caused the downregulation of ZEB2 and vimentin, and the upregulation of E-cadherin in ACHN cells. miR-205 also inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis of ACHN cells. Conclusion: miR-205 is a candidate tumor suppressor that targets ZEB2 in RCC.
Mandibular Central Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sepúlveda Ilson , Frelinghuysen Michael , Platin Enrique , Spencer M. Loreto , Compan Alvaro , Munzenmayer Juan , Ulloa David
Published: October 2014

We report the case of a patient whose main complaint was swelling on the right side of the mandible when he presented to the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Service. Imaging studies revealed a large homogeneous, multilocular, expansive lesion in the body of the right mandibular ramus. The lesion was poorly enhanced following intravenous contrast injection. The patient was treated with hemimandibular surgical resection, fibula free flap reconstruction and adjuvant radiotherapy. Currently, the patient is disease free and free of posttreatment complications.
Guidelines for the Primary Prevention of Stroke
Authors: Meschia James F. , Bushnell Cheryl , Boden-Albala Bernadette , Braun Lynne T. , Bravata Dawn M. , Chaturvedi Seemant , Creager Mark A. , Eckel Robert H. , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Fornage Myriam , Goldstein Larry B. , Greenberg Steven M. , Horvath Susanna E. , Iadecola Costantino , Jauch Edward C. , Moore Wesley S. , Wilson John A.
Published: October 2014

The aim of this updated statement is to provide comprehensive and timely evidence-based recommendations on the prevention of stroke among individuals who have not previously experienced a stroke or transient ischemic attack. Evidence-based recommendations are included for the control of risk factors, interventional approaches to atherosclerotic disease of the cervicocephalic circulation, and antithrombotic treatments for preventing thrombotic and thromboembolic stroke. Further recommendations are provided for genetic and pharmacogenetic testing and for the prevention of stroke in a variety of other specific circumstances, including sickle cell disease and patent foramen ovale.
Captive chimpanzees share diminishing resources
Authors: Calcutt S.E. , Lonsdorf E.V. , Bonnie K.E. , Milstein M.S. , Ross S.R.
Published: October 2014

Wild chimpanzees routinely share high-value resources such as meat obtained through hunting and fruit procured from raiding crops. Although it is predicted that the proximate mechanisms for sharing behaviour are the result of reciprocity, interchange and mutualism, examinations of these factors in captivity have not mirrored the degree to which they are found in the wild. The goal of the current study was to investigate how a group of seven captive chimpanzees responded when a highly desirable and monopolizable resource diminished over the course of eight months. To do this we measured the amount of time that was spent sharing food at an artificial termite mound as well as the relationship between dyads that spent time sharing. Our results contradicted our predictions that rates of aggression would increase and the number of individuals fishing at the termite mound would decrease when resources diminished, as we observed no difference in either variable over time. We did, though, find an increase in the amount of sharing as the number of baited holes decreased. We also found a correlation between the strength of dyadic relationships outside of the study and the amount of time that individuals spent sharing with each other.
Cellular reactions of the white grub larvae, Polyphylla adspersa, against entomopathogenic nematodes
Authors: Alvandi Jamileh , Karimi Javad , Dunphy Gary B.
Published: October 2014

The haemocyte reactions of the white grub larvaePolyphylla adspersato entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN), together with the host haemocyte types, have been studied. Six types of identified haemocytes included the prohaemocytes, granulocytes, plasmatocytes, oenocytoids, coagulocytes and spherulocytes. The granulocytes were the dominant (65.2%) haemocyte type followed by the plasmatocytes (22.1%). Both haemocyte types encapsulate EPN. White grub larvae and last larval stage ofGalleria mellonellawere individually infected with monoxenicHeterorhabditis bacteriophoraorSteinernema glaseri. The maximum total haemocyte counts (THC) level of the white grub larvae against the nematodeS. glaserioccurred at 12 h post-injection. In addition, by 8 h post-injection, the granulocyte and plasmatocyte levels decreased. The cell reactions of the grubs againstH. bacteriophorain terms of THC and differential haemocyte counts and the encapsulation rate started earlier and were more pronounced than those againstS. glaseri. The maximum percentage of the encapsulation observed in the white grub larvae againstS. glaseri(27.3 ± 0.7%) andH. bacteriophora(36.5 ± 3.5%) occurred at 12 and 8 h post-injection, respectively. EPN-triggered encapsulation inP. adspersalarvae was more extensive than inG. mellonellalarvae.
Studies on the genus Sectonema Thorne, 1930 (Dorylaimida: Aporcelaimidae). Redescription of S. ventrale Thorne, 1930, the type species of the genus
Authors: Peña-Santiago Reyes , Álvarez-Ortega Sergio
Published: October 2014

Sectonema ventrale, the type species of the genus, is redescribed on the basis of type material as well as other specimens originally examined by Thorne. Description, morphometrics and LM pictures are provided. An updated diagnosis is given and the identity of several (other than type) populations is discussed. It is characterised by its 7.09-10.42 mm long body, lip region offset by deep constriction and 25-27 μm broad, mural tooth 12-14 μm long ventrally, pharyngeal expansion occupying 68-73% of total neck length, uterus 2.5-4.2 times the corresponding body diam.,pars refringens vaginaewell developed, V = 48-56, female tail rounded conoid (47-71 μm, c = 117-174, c′ = 0.7-0.8), spicules 120 μm long, and eight or nine irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements with a hiatus. The nature of the stomatal protrusible structure is analysed and discussed, concluding that it is more a reduced odontostyle than a typical mural tooth, a point that should be the subject of further studies.
Synopsis of Bakeriella Kieffer, 1910 (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae)
Authors: AZEVEDO CELSO O.
Published: October 2014

Thirty valid species and their junior synonymous were investigated. Neotropical species of Epyrinae were also examined in order to find possible misclassified species of Bakeriella. Diagnoses and illustrations of all valid species are provided. Male genitalia of 14 previously described species are first described and illustrated. The lectotypes of Bakeriella flavicornis Kieffer, 1910 and Epyris montivagus Kieffer, 1910 are designated. The status of Bakeriella lindigi (Kieffer, 1910), stat. resurr. is resurrected from the synonyms of Bakeriella montivaga (Kieffer, 1910). The new synonymy is proposed for Bakeriella polita Evans 1964 =Bakeriella vicina Azevedo & Moreira, 2005, syn. nov.; Bakeriella lindigi Kieffer, 1910 =Epyris bogotensis Kieffer, 1910, syn. nov.; Bakeriella flavicornis Kieffer, 1910 =Bakeriella depressa Kieffer, 1910, syn. nov. Keys to males and females of Bakeriella are also provided. Twelve species had their distribution broadened.
Overview and key to the New Zealand Cynipoidea (Hymenoptera)
Authors: WARD D. F.
Published: October 2014

An overview of Cynipoidea (Hymenoptera) in New Zealand is presented with information on families, genera, and when available, species. Notes on their distribution, biology, and a taxonomic key are provided. The New Zealand cynipoid fauna is very poorly known, with only 11 described species, and five genus-only taxa. The fauna is dominated by introduced species; two species have been deliberately introduced as biological control agents, and at least 12 taxa are definitely or probably adventives. Many of these species are widespread and collected from modified and non-native habitats. New generic records of Figitidae for New Zealand include: Xyalaspis (Anacharitinae), Ganaspis, (Eucoilinae), and Thoreauella (Emargininae), all of which are considered adventives. There are no native species of gall forming wasps (Cynipidae) in New Zealand, and only two native species of Figitidae are present: Anacharis zealandica Ashmead, 1900 and Kleidotoma subantarcticana Yoshimoto, 1964.
Marine Wind and Wave Height Trends at Different ERA-Interim Forecast Ranges
Authors: Aarnes Ole Johan , Abdalla Saleh , Bidlot Jean-Raymond , Breivik Øyvind
Published: October 2014

Trends in marine wind speed and significant wave height are investigated using the global reanalysis ERA-Interim over the period 1979–2012, based on monthly-mean and monthly-maximum data. Besides the traditional reanalysis, the authors include trends obtained at different forecast range, available up to 10 days ahead. Any model biases that are corrected differently over time are likely to introduce spurious trends of variable magnitude. However, at increased forecast range the model tends to relax, being less affected by assimilation. Still, there is a trade-off between removing the impact of data assimilation at longer forecast range and getting a lower level of uncertainty in the predictions at shorter forecast range. Because of the sheer amount of assimilations made in ERA-Interim, directly and indirectly affecting the data, it is difficult, if not impossible, to distinguish effects imposed by all updates. Here, special emphasis is put on the introduction of wave altimeter data in August 1991, the only type of data directly affecting the wave field. From this, it is shown that areas of higher model bias introduce quite different trends depending on forecast range, most apparent in the North Atlantic and eastern tropical Pacific. Results are compared with 23 in situ measurements, Envisat altimeter winds, and two stand-alone ECMWF operational wave model (EC-WAM) runs with and without wave altimeter assimilation. Here, the 48-h forecast is suggested to be a better candidate for trend estimates of wave height, mainly due to the step change imposed by altimeter observations. Even though wind speed seems less affected by undesirable step changes, the authors believe that the 24–48-h forecast more effectively filters out any unwanted effects.
Horizontally Explicit and Vertically Implicit (HEVI) Time Discretization Scheme for a Discontinuous Galerkin Nonhydrostatic Model
Authors: Bao Lei , Klöfkorn Robert , Nair Ramachandran D.
Published: October 2014

A two-dimensional nonhydrostatic (NH) atmospheric model based on the compressible Euler system has been developed in the (x, z) Cartesian domain. The spatial discretization is based on a nodal discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method with exact integration. The orography is handled by the terrain-following height-based coordinate system. The time integration uses the horizontally explicit and vertically implicit (HEVI) time-splitting scheme, which is introduced to address the stringent restriction on the explicit time step size due to a high aspect ratio between the horizontal (x) and vertical (z) spatial discretization. The HEVI scheme is generally based on the Strang-type operator-split approach, where the horizontally propagating waves in the Euler system are solved explicitly while the vertically propagating waves are treated implicitly. As a consequence, the HEVI scheme relaxes the maximum allowed time step to be mainly determined by the horizontal grid spacing. The accuracy of the HEVI scheme is rigorously compared against that of the explicit strong stability-preserving (SSP) Runge–Kutta (RK) scheme using several NH benchmark test cases. The HEVI scheme shows a second-order temporal convergence, as expected. The results of the HEVI scheme are qualitatively comparable to those of the SSP-RK3 scheme. Moreover, the HEVI DG formulation can also be seamlessly extended to account for the second-order diffusion as in the case of the standard SSP-RK DG formulation. In the presence of orography, the HEVI scheme produces high quality results, which are visually identical to those produced by the SSP-RK3 scheme.