bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Autologous Chondrocyte Repair and Comparison to Other Cartilage Repair Techniques
Authors: Dewan Ashvin K. , Gibson Matthew A. , Elisseeff Jennifer H. , Trice Michael E.
Published: August 2014

Articular cartilage defects have been addressed using microfracture, abrasion chondroplasty, or osteochondral grafting, but these strategies do not generate tissue that adequately recapitulates native cartilage. During the past 25 years, promising new strategies using assorted scaffolds and cell sources to induce chondrocyte expansion have emerged. We reviewed the evolution of autologous chondrocyte implantation and compared it to other cartilage repair techniques.Methods. We searched PubMed from 1949 to 2014 for the keywords “autologous chondrocyte implantation” (ACI) and “cartilage repair” in clinical trials, meta-analyses, and review articles. We analyzed these articles, their bibliographies, our experience, and cartilage regeneration textbooks.Results. Microfracture, abrasion chondroplasty, osteochondral grafting, ACI, and autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis are distinguishable by cell source (including chondrocytes and stem cells) and associated scaffolds (natural or synthetic, hydrogels or membranes). ACI seems to be as good as, if not better than, microfracture for repairing large chondral defects in a young patient’s knee as evaluated by multiple clinical indices and the quality of regenerated tissue.Conclusion. Although there is not enough evidence to determine the best repair technique, ACI is the most established cell-based treatment for full-thickness chondral defects in young patients.
Effect of Lower Body Compression Garments on Hemodynamics in Response to Running Session
Authors: Venckūnas Tomas , Trinkūnas Eugenijus , Kamandulis Sigitas , Poderys Jonas , Grūnovas Albinas , Brazaitis Marius
Published: August 2014

Purpose. Compression garments are often worn during exercise and allegedly have ergogenic and/or physiological effects. In this study, we compared hemodynamics and running performance while wearing compression and loose-fit breeches. We hypothesized that in neutral-warm environment compression breeches impair performance by diminishing body cooling via evaporative sweat loss and redistributing blood from active musculature to skin leading to a larger rise in body temperature and prolonging recovery of hemodynamics after exercise.Methods. Changes in hemodynamics (leg blood flow, heart rate, and blood pressure during orthoclinostatic test), calf muscle tissue oxygenation, and skin and core temperatures were measured in response to 30 min running (simulation of aerobic training session) followed by maximal 400 m sprint (evaluation of running performance) in recreationally active females(25.1±4.2 yrs;63.0±8.6 kg) wearing compression or loose-fit breeches in randomized fashion.Results. Wearing compression breeches resulted in larger skin temperature rise under the garment during exercise and recovery (by about 1°C,P<0.05; statistical power > 85%), while core temperature dynamics and other measured parameters including circulation, running performance, and sensations were similar compared to wearing loose-fit breeches(P>0.05).Conclusion. Compared with loose-fit breeches, compression breeches have neither positive nor negative physiological and performance effects for females running in thermoneutral environment.
Optimal Design of Multistage Two-Dimensional Cellular-Cored Sandwich Panel Heat Exchanger
Authors: Zhang Yongcun , Liu Shutian
Published: August 2014

For a two-dimensional (2D) cellular-cored sandwich panel heat exchanger, there exists an optimum cell size to achieve the maximum heat transfer with the prescribed pressure drop when the length is fixed and the two plates are isothermal. However, in engineering design, it is difficult to find 2D cellular materials with the ideal cell size because the cell size selected must be from those commercially available, which are discrete, not continuous. In order to obtain the maximum heat dissipation, an innovative design scheme is proposed for the sandwich panel heat exchanger which is divided into multiple stages in the direction of fluid flow where the 2D cellular material in each stage has a specific cell size. An analytical model is presented to evaluate the thermal performance of the multistage sandwich panel heat exchanger when all 2D cellular materials have the same porosity. Also, a new parameter named equivalent cell size (ECS) is defined, which is dependent on the cell size and length of cellular material in all stages. Results show that the maximum heat dissipation design of the multistage sandwich panel heat exchanger can be converted to make the ECS equal to the optimal cell size of the single-stage exchanger.
Association of the Three Common SNPs of Cyclooxygenase-2 Gene (rs20417, rs689466, and rs5275) with the Susceptibility of Breast Cancer: An Updated Meta-Analysis Involving 34,590 Subjects
Authors: Dai Zhi-Jun , Shao Yong-Ping , Ma Xiao-Bin , Xu Dan , Tang Wei , Kang Hua-Feng , Lin Shuai , Wang Meng , Ren Hong-Tao , Wang Xi-Jing
Published: August 2014

Several single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) genes (e.g., −765 G>C (rs20417), −1195G>A (rs689466), and 8473 C>T (rs5275)). The association of these SNPs with the risk of different cancer types is still controversial. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between these SNPs and breast cancer risk in different ethnic groups. We have searched PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Embase for relevant studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of the associations. A total of 13 studies (15,330 cases and 19,260 controls) were eligible for meta-analysis. This meta-analysis showed that COX-2 rs20417 polymorphism was correlated with an increased risk of breast cancer in Caucasians, while rs689466 was associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer in Caucasians. The rs5275 polymorphism had no association with breast cancer risk.
Study of Light Harvesting Properties of Different Classes of Metal-Free Organic Dyes in TiO2Based Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Chauhan Ratna , Kushwaha Reena , Bahadur Lal
Published: August 2014

In dye-sensitized solar cells, the photosensitization of TiO2thin film semiconductor was accomplished by using different classes of metal-free (fluorone, triarymethane, azo and thiazine based) organic dyes as photosensitizer. The broad electronic absorption spectra of these dyes have been obtained in the visible region due to the presence of chromophoric groups in these dyes. The contribution of these dyes as light harvesting species is seen from the photocurrent action spectrum of the cell. Here, we report the sensitization activity of these dyes in terms of current-potential curve, open-circuit potential, fill factor, IPCE, and overall solar energy conversion efficiency which have been evaluated under 100 mW/cm2light intensity. The results suggest that dyes based on fluorone and azo groups are promising candidates for high performance, dye-sensitized solar cells because of better anchoring groups (–COOH, –OH, and –SO3-) present in these dyes. Better anchorage of dyes to the surface of TiO2semiconductor helps in charge transfer phenomenon.
Evaluation of the Performance of Females as Light Infantry Soldiers
Authors: Finestone Aharon S. , Milgrom Charles , Yanovich Ran , Evans Rachel , Constantini Naama , Moran Daniel S.
Published: August 2014

A few countries permit women to serve in combat roles, but their long term performance in these positions has not been reported. The incidences of overuse injuries and attrition of 85 male and 235 female recruits in a light infantry brigade was followed in a three-year prospective study. Females were shorter (162 cm, CI 161–163 cm) than males (174 cm, CI 173–176), had more body fat (18.9 kg, CI 18.2–19.6 kg) than males (12.6 kg, 11.3–13.8 kg), had lowerV˙O2max (36.8 mL·min−1·kg−1, CI 35.8–37.78 mL·min−1·kg−1) than males (50.48 mL·min−1·kg−1, CI 48.4 to 52.48 mL·min−1·kg−1), had more stress fractures (21.0%, 95% CI 16.2–26.5%) than males (2.3%, CI 0.3–8.2%), and had more anterior knee pain (41.2%, CI 34.9–47.7%) than males (24.7%, CI 16.0–35.2%). Three-year attrition was 28% CI 22–34% for females and 37% CI 26–48% for males. The females in this study successfully served as light infantry soldiers. Their lower fitness and high incidence of overuse injuries might impede service as regular infantry soldiers.
Neopterin and Beta-2 Microglobulin Relations to Immunity and Inflammatory Status in Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy Patients
Authors: Wojciechowska Celina , Wodniecki Jan , Wojnicz Romuald , Romuk Ewa , Jacheć Wojciech , Tomasik Andrzej , Skrzep-Poloczek Bronisława , Spinczyk Beata , Nowalany-Kozielska Ewa
Published: August 2014

Background. The aim of the study was to assess the relationships among serum neopterin (NPT),β2-microglobulin (β2-M) levels, clinical status, and endomyocardial biopsy results of dilated cardiomyopathy patients (DCM).Methods. Serum NPT andβ-2 M were determined in 172 nonischaemic DCM patients who underwent right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy and 30 healthy subjects (ELISA test). The cryostat biopsy specimens were assessed using histology, immunohistology, and immunochemistry methods (HLA ABC, HLA DR expression, CD3 + lymphocytes, and macrophages counts).Results. The strong increase of HLA ABC or HLA DR expression was detected in 27.2% patients—group A—being low in 72.8% patients—group B. Neopterin level was increased in patients in group A compared to healthy controls 8.11 (4.50–12.57) versus 4.99 (2.66–8.28) nmol/L (P<0.05).β-2 microglobulin level was higher in DCM groups A (2.60 (1.71–3.58)) and B (2.52 (1.51–3.72)) than in the control group 1.75 (1.28–1.96) mg/L,P<0.001. Neopterin correlated positively with the number of macrophages in biopsy specimens (P<0.05) acute phase proteins: C-reactive proteins (P<0.05); fibrinogen (P<0.01); and NYHA functional class (P<0.05) and negatively with left ventricular ejection fraction (P<0.05).Conclusions. Neopterin but notβ-2 microglobulin concentration reflected immune response in biopsy specimens. Neopterin correlated with acute phase proteins and stage of heart failure and may indicate a general immune and inflammatory activation in heart failure.
A Comprehensive Propagation Prediction Model Comprising Microfacet Based Scattering and Probability Based Coverage Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Kausar A. S. M. Zahid , Reza Ahmed Wasif , Wo Lau Chun , Ramiah Harikrishnan
Published: August 2014

Although ray tracing based propagation prediction models are popular for indoor radio wave propagation characterization, most of them do not provide an integrated approach for achieving the goal of optimum coverage, which is a key part in designing wireless network. In this paper, an accelerated technique of three-dimensional ray tracing is presented, where rough surface scattering is included for making a more accurate ray tracing technique. Here, the rough surface scattering is represented by microfacets, for which it becomes possible to compute the scattering field in all possible directions. New optimization techniques, like dual quadrant skipping (DQS) and closest object finder (COF), are implemented for fast characterization of wireless communications and making the ray tracing technique more efficient. In conjunction with the ray tracing technique, probability based coverage optimization algorithm is accumulated with the ray tracing technique to make a compact solution for indoor propagation prediction. The proposed technique decreases the ray tracing time by omitting the unnecessary objects for ray tracing using the DQS technique and by decreasing the ray-object intersection time using the COF technique. On the other hand, the coverage optimization algorithm is based on probability theory, which finds out the minimum number of transmitters and their corresponding positions in order to achieve optimal indoor wireless coverage. Both of the space and time complexities of the proposed algorithm surpass the existing algorithms. For the verification of the proposed ray tracing technique and coverage algorithm, detailed simulation results for different scattering factors, different antenna types, and different operating frequencies are presented. Furthermore, the proposed technique is verified by the experimental results.
Evaluation of Texture and Shape Features for Classification of Four Paddy Varieties
Authors: Chaugule Archana , Mali Suresh N.
Published: August 2014

This research is aimed at evaluating the texture and shape features using the most commonly used neural network architectures for cereal grain classification. An evaluation of the classification accuracy of texture and shape features and neural network was done to classify four Paddy (rice) grains, namely, Karjat-6(K6), Ratnagiri-2(R2), Ratnagiri-4(R4), and Ratnagiri-24(R24). Algorithms were written to extract the features from the high-resolution images of kernels of four grain types and used as input features for classification. Different feature models were tested for their ability to classify these cereal grains. Effect of using different parameters on the accuracy of classification was studied. The most suitable feature from the features for accurate classification was identified. The shape feature set outperformed the texture feature set in almost all the instances of classification.
Occluded Face Recognition Based on Double Layers Module Sparsity Difference
Authors: Zhao Shuhuan , Hu Zheng-ping
Published: August 2014

Image recognition with occlusion is one of the popular problems in pattern recognition. This paper partitions the images into some modules in two layers and the sparsity difference is used to evaluate the occluded modules. The final identification is processed on the unoccluded modules by sparse representation. Firstly, we partition the images into four blocks and sparse representation is performed on each block, so the sparsity of each block can be obtained; secondly, each block is partitioned again into two modules. Sparsity of each small module is calculated as the first step. Finally, the sparsity difference of small module with the corresponding block is used to detect the occluded modules; in this paper, the small modules with negative sparsity differences are considered as occluded modules. The identification is performed on the selected unoccluded modules by sparse representation. Experiments on the AR and Yale B database verify the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Teriparatide Induced Delayed Persistent Hypercalcemia
Authors: Thiruchelvam Nirosshan , Randhawa Jaskirat , Sadiek Happy , Kistangari Gaurav
Published: August 2014

Teriparatide, a recombinant PTH, is an anabolic treatment for osteoporosis that increases bone density. Transient hypercalcemia is a reported side effect of teriparatide that is seen few hours following administration of teriparatide and resolves usually within 16 hours of drug administration. Persistent hypercalcemia, although not observed in clinical trials, is rarely reported. The current case describes a rare complication of teriparatide induced delayed persistent hypercalcemia.
Cytohistopathological Study of Salivary Gland Lesions in Bundelkhand Region, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Omhare Anita , Singh Sanjeev Kumar , Nigam Jitendra Singh , Sharma Ankit
Published: August 2014

Background.FNAC is a useful method for evaluating suspicious salivary glands lesions due to its low cost, minimum morbidity, rapid turnaround time, high specificity, and sensitivity.Aim.To know the frequency of the salivary gland lesions and cytohistological correlation in the Jhansi region, Uttar Pradesh, India.Material and Methods.In present study 124 cases were included and cytohistological correlation was made in 86 cases only. FNA was performed by using a 23/24-gauge needle without local anaesthesia. Air dried and 95% ethyl alcohol fixed wet smears were stained with Giemsa stain and Papanicolaou stain, respectively. Paraffin embedded tissue sections were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin.Results.Parotid gland was the most commonly involved salivary gland. The commonest age group was 20 to 29 years, 30 to 39 years, and 60 to 69 years for nonneoplastic lesions, benign tumours, and malignant tumours, respectively. The overall male to female ratio was 1.17 : 1. The diagnostic accuracy of FNAC was 100%, 93.3%, and 88.2% for nonneoplastic lesions, benign tumours, and malignant tumours, respectively.Conclusion.The high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of FNAC confirm that preoperative cytology is a useful, quick, reliable diagnostic technique for rapid diagnosis and suitable for developing countries.
Pseudomembranous Colitis: Not Always Caused byClostridium difficile
Authors: Tang Derek M. , Urrunaga Nathalie H. , De Groot Hannah , von Rosenvinge Erik C. , Xie Guofeng , Ghazi Leyla J.
Published: August 2014

Although classically pseudomembranous colitis is caused byClostridium difficile, it can result from several etiologies. Certain medications, chemical injury, collagenous colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, ischemia, and other infectious pathogens can reportedly cause mucosal injury and subsequent pseudomembrane formation. We present the case of a middle-aged woman with vascular disease who was incorrectly diagnosed with refractoryC. difficileinfection due to the presence of pseudomembranes. Further imaging, endoscopy, and careful histopathology review revealed chronic ischemia as the cause of her pseudomembranous colitis and diarrhea. This case highlights the need for gastroenterologists to consider non-C. difficileetiologies when diagnosing pseudomembranous colitis.
A Review on Plants Used for Improvement of Sexual Performance and Virility
Authors: Chauhan Nagendra Singh , Sharma Vikas , Dixit V. K. , Thakur Mayank
Published: August 2014

The use of plant or plant-based products to stimulate sexual desire and to enhance performance and enjoyment is almost as old as the human race itself. The present paper reviews the active, natural principles, and crude extracts of plants, which have been useful in sexual disorders, have potential for improving sexual behaviour and performance, and are helpful in spermatogenesis and reproduction. Review of refereed journals and scientific literature available in electronic databases and traditional literature available in India was extensively performed. The work reviews correlation of the evidence with traditional claims, elucidation, and evaluation of a plausible concept governing the usage of plants as aphrodisiac in total. Phytoconstituents with known structures have been classified in appropriate chemical groups and the active crude extracts have been tabulated. Data on their pharmacological activity, mechanism of action, and toxicity are reported. The present review provides an overview of the herbs and their active molecule with claims for improvement of sexual behaviour. A number of herbal drugs have been validated for their effect on sexual behavior and fertility and can therefore serve as basis for the identification of new chemical leads useful in sexual and erectile dysfunction.
Insights from a Paradigm Shift: How the Poly(A)-Binding Protein Brings Translating mRNAs Full Circle
Authors: Gallie Daniel R.
Published: August 2014

In recent years, our thinking of how the initiation of protein synthesis occurs has changed dramatically. Initiation was thought to involve only events occurring at or near the 5′-cap structure, which serves as the binding site for the cap-binding complex, a group of translation initiation factors (eIFs) that facilitate the binding of the 40 S ribosomal subunit to an mRNA. Because the poly(A)-binding protein (PABP) binds the poly(A) tail present at the 3′-terminus of an mRNA, it was long thought to play no role in translation initiation. In this review, I present evidence from my laboratory that has contributed to the paradigm shift in how we think of mRNAs during translation. The depiction of mRNAs as straight molecules in which the poly(A) tail is far from events occurring at the 5′-end has now been replaced by the concept of a circular mRNA where the interaction between PABP and the cap-binding complex bridges the termini of an mRNA and promotes translation initiation. The research from my laboratory supports the new paradigm that translation of most mRNAs requires a functional and physical interaction between the termini of an mRNA.
A Polymorphism inHepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1 Alpha,rs7310409, Is Associated with Left Main Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Liu Rui , Liu Hanning , Gu Haiyong , Teng Xiao , Nie Yu , Zhou Zhou , Zhao Yan , Hu Shengshou , Zheng Zhe
Published: August 2014

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) is a particularly severe phenotypic form of CAD and has a genetic basis. We hypothesized that some inflammation- and hyperhomocysteinemia-related gene polymorphisms may contribute to LMCAD susceptibility in a Chinese population. We studied the association between polymorphisms in the genes hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha (HNF1A; rs7310409, G/A), C-reactive protein (rs1800947 and rs3093059 T/C), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (rs1801133, C/T), and methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (rs1076991, A/G) in 402 LMCAD and 804 more peripheral CAD patients in a Chinese population. Genotyping was performed using the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry method. When the HNF1A rs7310409 GG homozygote genotype was used as the reference group, both the individual, GA and AA, and combined GA/AA genotypes were associated with an increased risk of LMCAD. This single nucleotide polymorphism (rs7310409) is strongly associated with plasma CRP levels. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence that the HNF1A rs7310409 G/A functional polymorphism may contribute to the risk of LMCAD.
Hepatosplenic Sarcoidosis: Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Findings and Implications for Clinical Practice
Authors: Tana Claudio , Dietrich Christoph F. , Schiavone Cosima
Published: August 2014

Sarcoidosis is a complex granulomatous disease that affects virtually every organ and tissue, with a prevalence that varies significantly among the sites involved. The role of conventional imaging, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, in the assessment of hepatosplenic sarcoidosis is well established by revealing organ enlargement, multiple discrete nodules, and lymphadenopathy. In this review, we aim to describe contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) findings in liver and spleen involvement by sarcoidosis, reporting evidence from the literature and cases from our experience, after a brief update on safety profile, cost-effectiveness, and clinical indications of this novel technique. Furthermore, we highlight potential advantages of CEUS in assessing hepatosplenic sarcoidosis that may be useful in the clinical practice.
Phylogenetic Information Content of Copepoda Ribosomal DNA Repeat Units: ITS1 and ITS2 Impact
Authors: Zagoskin Maxim V. , Lazareva Valentina I. , Grishanin Andrey K. , Mukha Dmitry V.
Published: August 2014

The utility of various regions of the ribosomal repeat unit for phylogenetic analysis was examined in 16 species representing four families, nine genera, and two orders of the subclass Copepoda (Crustacea). Fragments approximately 2000 bp in length containing the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) 18S and 28S gene fragments, the 5.8S gene, and the internal transcribed spacer regions I and II (ITS1 and ITS2) were amplified and analyzed. The DAMBE (Data Analysis in Molecular Biology and Evolution) software was used to analyze the saturation of nucleotide substitutions; this test revealed the suitability of both the 28S gene fragment and the ITS1/ITS2 rDNA regions for the reconstruction of phylogenetic trees. Distance (minimum evolution) and probabilistic (maximum likelihood, Bayesian) analyses of the data revealed that the 28S rDNA and the ITS1 and ITS2 regions are informative markers for inferring phylogenetic relationships among families of copepods and within the Cyclopidae family and associated genera. Split-graph analysis of concatenated ITS1/ITS2 rDNA regions of cyclopoid copepods suggested that theMesocyclops,Thermocyclops,andMacrocyclopsgenera share complex evolutionary relationships. This study revealed that the ITS1 and ITS2 regions potentially represent different phylogenetic signals.
Cytokine Network Involvement in Subjects Exposed to Benzene
Authors: Minciullo Paola Lucia , Navarra Michele , Calapai Gioacchino , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: August 2014

Benzene represents an ubiquitous pollutant both in the workplace and in the general environment. Health risk and stress posed by benzene have long been a concern because of the carcinogenic effects of the compound which was classified as a Group 1 carcinogen to humans and animals. There is a close correlation between leukemia, especially acute myeloid leukemia, and benzene exposure. In addition, exposure to benzene can cause harmful effects on immunological, neurological, and reproductive systems. Benzene can directly damage hematopoietic progenitor cells, which in turn could lead to apoptosis or may decrease responsiveness to cytokines and cellular adhesion molecules. Alternatively, benzene toxicity to stromal cells or mature blood cells could disrupt the regulation of hematopoiesis, including hematopoietic commitment, maturation, or mobilization, through the network of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. Today there is mounting evidence that benzene may alter the gene expression, production, or processing of several cytokinesin vitroandin vivo. The purpose of this review was to systematically analyze the published cases of cytokine effects on human benzene exposure, particularly hematotoxicity, and atopy, and on lungs.
Oculopalatal Tremor: Variations on a Theme by Guillain and Mollaret
Authors: Jang Liuna , Borruat François-Xavier
Published: August 2014

Background: Oculopalatal tremor (OPT) is a delayed complication of a brainstem lesion, characterized by involuntary contractions of the soft palate associated with a synchronized ocular pendular nystagmus. MRI reveals inferior olivary nucleus hypersignal/hypertrophy (IONH). Our objective was to refine the clinical profile of patients with OPT and to report a few oddities in both presentation and evolution. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with OPT and a literature search. Results: From our database, we retrieved 5 men and 3 women with a diagnosis of OPT. Eighty-two patients with OPT were retrieved from the literature and were compiled with our series. The average age was 54 years and there was a male predominance. Brainstem vascular lesion was the most common etiology (80%). Prominent vertical pendular nystagmus was found in 90%. Dissociated nystagmus was mostly associated to unilateral contralateral IONH on MRI, while bilateral symmetrical nystagmus was due to a bilateral IONH in the majority of cases. Three oddities were found amongst our 8 patients: prominent nystagmus ipsilateral to IONH; disappearance of IONH on MRI despite persisting nystagmus, and asymptomatic OPT. Conclusion: The clinical profile of OPT is rather stereotyped. Rarely do patients deviate from the classical description of OPT.
Differential Placental Gene Expression in Term Pregnancies Affected by Fetal Growth Restriction and Macrosomia
Authors: Sabri Amin , Lai Donna , D'Silva Arlene , Seeho Sean , Kaur Jasjot , Ng Cecilia , Hyett Jon
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Extremes of fetal growth are associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes in later life. We aimed to identify changes in placental gene expression in pregnancies with evidence of growth dysfunction and candidate genes that may be used to identify abnormal patterns of growth prior to delivery. Methods: Growth-restricted (n = 4), macrosomic (n = 6) and normal term (n = 5) placentas were selected from a banked series (n = 200) collected immediately after caesarean section. RNA was extracted prior to microarray analysis using Affymetrix HG-U219 arrays to determine variation in gene expression. Genes of interest were confirmed using qRT-PCR. Results: 338 genes in the growth-restricted and 41 genes in the macrosomic group were identified to be significantly dysregulated (>2-fold change; p < 0.05). CPXM2 and CLDN1 were upregulated and TXNDC5 and LRP2 downregulated in fetal growth restriction. In macrosomia, PHLDB2 and CLDN1 were upregulated and LEP and GCH1 were downregulated. Discussion: Dysfunctional growth is associated with differential placental gene expression and affects genes with a whole spectrum of developmental and cellular functions. Better elucidation of these pathways may allow the development of biomarkers to identify growth abnormalities and effective prenatal intervention.
Circulating mRNA for the PLAC1 Gene as a Second Trimester Marker (14-18 Weeks' Gestation) in the Screening for Late Preeclampsia
Authors: Zanello Margherita , Sekizawa Akihiko , Purwosunu Yuditiya , Curti Alessandra , Farina Antonio
Published: August 2014

Objective: To develop a model for prediction of late preeclampsia (PE; which develops at or after 34 weeks' gestation) based on maternal history and characteristics, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and circulating levels of mRNA for the placenta-specific 1 (PLAC1) gene in maternal plasma at 14-18 weeks' gestation. Method: This was a screening study of singleton pregnancies at 14-18 weeks' gestation including 43 women that subsequently developed PE and 200 that were unaffected by PE. A Gaussian model was fitted to the log distribution of the multiple of the median (log MoM) PLAC1 mRNA in the PE group and in the unaffected group. Likelihood ratios for log MoM of circulating levels of mRNA for the PLAC1 gene were used to combine the a priori risk from maternal characteristics with MAP to produce patient-specific risks for each case. Results: Screening by maternal characteristics (including BMI, woman's mother's history of PE, previous PE, and parity) (a priori risk) and MAP detected 46.8% of all cases of late PE at a fixed false-positive rate (FPR) of 10%. The addition of PLAC1 yielded a detection rate (DR) of 62.8% at the same level of FPR. PLAC1 alone yielded a DR of 30.2%. Conclusion: In late PE, molecular markers can be used to improve the DR of screening and can be a valid option for the biochemical approach.
Twin-Reversed Arterial Perfusion Sequence in a Triple Monochorionic Pregnancy with Two Direct Pump Fetuses Results in Significant Cyclic Doppler Waveform
Authors: López-Pérez Rocío , Lorente Mónica , Martínez-Uriarte Juan , Rivero Inmaculada M. , García-Izquierdo Olivia , Jódar María Ángeles , Molina Francisca
Published: August 2014

We report a case of a twin-reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence complication in monochorionic triplets, in which both normal fetuses were directly connected to the umbilical cord of the acardiac fetus, thus both acting as a pump twin. Doppler ultrasound showed a significant waveform pattern with two superposed systolic waveforms in the same vessel. After birth, placental findings confirmed the existence of two direct pump twins. The Doppler pattern described here may be of help to distinguish the existence of two pump twins in a triplet monochorionic pregnancy with TRAP.
Anterior Temporal Atrophy and Posterior Progression in Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Potgieser Adriaan R.E. , van der Hoorn Anouk , Meppelink Anne Marthe , Teune Laura K. , Koerts Janneke , de Jong Bauke M.
Published: August 2014

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by specific motor and nonmotor impairments. This suggests that PD is characterized by disease-specific regional cortical atrophy. Given the change of symptoms over time, a concurrent increase in regional atrophy may further be assumed to reflect the dynamic process of disease progression. Methods: In this study we retrospectively collected T1-weighted MRI scans from previous studies performed in our center, enabling the comparison of gray matter atrophy in 77 PD patients with 87 controls using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). This large VBM analysis provided the opportunity to investigate cortical atrophy in relation with disease progression. Results: We found significant PD-related reductions of gray matter density bilaterally in the anterior temporal cortex, the left inferior frontal and left extrastriate visual cortex, independent from normal aging. The anterior temporal cortex did not show major progression, whereas particularly the posterior parts of the lateral temporal cortex and adjacent extrastriate visual cortex occurred at a later stage of disease. Conclusions: Temporal pole atrophy as an early sign of PD is consistent with the PD pathology classification of Braak. The initial anterior temporal atrophy with spread to occipitotemporal and posterior parietal regions may subserve ‘emotion-based' sensorimotor transformations and deficits in the visual domain, respectively, which may be regarded as premotor symptoms.
The Reliability of Fetal MRI in the Assessment of Brain Malformations
Authors: Frick Nora , Fazelnia Claudius , Kanzian Kathrin , Hitzl Wolfgang , Fischer Thorsten , Forstner Rosemarie , Bogner Gerhard
Published: August 2014

Objectives: To assess the inter- and intraobserver reliability of different fetal MRI measurements in cases of fetal brain malformations and to examine the concordance between ultrasonography (US) and MRI findings. Methods: Fetal brain MRIs and US findings of 56 pregnant women were retrieved from the institutional database. Standardized fetal brain MRI measurements were performed by 4 observers, and the inter- and intraobserver reliability was determined. Additionally, US and MRI findings were retrospectively compared. Results: The interobserver intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was above 0.9 for the cerebellum and posterior horn of the lateral ventricle. The measurements regarding the third ventricle (0.50), the fourth ventricle (0.58), and the corpus callosum (0.63) showed poor reliability. Overall, the intraobserver reliability was greater than the interobserver reliability. US and MRI findings were discordant in 29% of the cases with MRI rendering an extended diagnosis in 18%, a change of diagnosis in 3.6%, and excluding pathological findings suspected on US in 7.1%. Conclusions: Fetal MRI is a valuable complement to US in the investigation of fetal brain malformations. The reliability of most parameters was high, except for the measurements of the third and fourth ventricles and the corpus callosum.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy with 5-Aminolevulinic-Acid-Mediated Photodynamic Diagnosis Enhances the Detection of Peritoneal Micrometastases in Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kishi Kentaro , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki , Yano Masahiko , Motoori Masaaki , Sugimura Keijiro , Ohue Masayuki , Noura Shingo , Marubashi Shigeru , Takahashi Hidenori , Sakon Masato
Published: August 2014

Objects: Recently, we reported that diagnostic laparoscopy with photodynamic diagnosis using oral 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA-PDD) is a promising tool for diagnosing early peritoneal metastases in gastric cancer. The present study evaluated the usefulness of adding ALA-PDD to conventional diagnostic laparoscopy and assessed the association of the ALA-PDD results with peritoneal fluid cytology and molecular diagnostic testing. Methods: Diagnostic laparoscopy using sequential white light (WL) and ALA-PDD observations was performed in 52 advanced gastric cancer patients, and the sensitivity of ALA-PDD for detecting peritoneal disease was compared to WL. Peritoneal fluid samples from the same patients were also subjected to cytological examination and molecular diagnosis using a transcription-reverse transcription concerted reaction (TRC). Results: Twenty-four of the 52 patients (46%) had no macroscopic evidence of peritoneal metastases on WL examination; however, ALA-PDD detected dissemination in 5 of these 24 patients (21%) (pd-P). Cytological examination was negative in 4 of the 5 pd-P patients, and molecular testing using TRC was negative in 3 of the 5 pd-P patients. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that diagnostic laparoscopy with ALA-PDD improved the sensitivity for the detection of peritoneal metastases. ALA-PDD may be a useful technique for the preoperative staging of advanced gastric cancer and can complement examinations of peritoneal lavage fluids.
Is Postoperative Computed Tomography Evaluation a Prognostic Indicator in Patients with Optimally Debulked Advanced Ovarian Cancer?
Authors: Lorusso Domenica , Sarno Italo , Di Donato Violante , Palazzo Antonella , Torrisi Elena , Pala Laura , Marchiano Alfonso , Raspagliesi Francesco
Published: August 2014

Objective: To compare the surgeon's intraoperative assessment of residual tumor (RT) disease with that identified on postoperative computed tomography (CT) in patients undergoing optimal primary surgical cytoreduction (RT <1 cm) and to identify the prognostic significance of postoperative CT scan of RT. Methods: Patients with FIGO stage III-IV ovarian cancer treated at the Gynecologic Oncology Unit of the National Cancer Institute between November 2011 and March 2013, who underwent optimal primary cytoreduction and were entered in prospective controlled clinical trials requiring a baseline postoperative CT evaluation within 30 days, were enrolled. All CT scans were reviewed by a dedicated radiologist to evaluate RT. Median follow-up was 16 months. Results: 64 out of 160 patients met the eligibility criteria. RT = 0, 0.1 < RT < 0.5 cm, and 0.6 < RT < 1 cm was reported in 53 (82.8%), 9 (14.1%) and 2 (3.1%) cases, respectively. Postoperative CT disagreed with RT in 13 out of 64 (20.3%) cases. Progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with a positive and negative postoperative CT scan of RT was 5 months (95% CI 1-15 months) and 28 months (95% CI 2-46 months), respectively (p < 0.0001). Evidence of the disease using postoperative CT was an independent prognostic factor in multivariate analysis (HR = 8.87, 95% CI = 3.23-24.31, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Evidence of the disease using postoperative CT was associated with a significant decrease in PFS in patients who underwent optimal primary cytoreduction. RT status as evaluated with early postoperative CT may have an important role in prognostic assessment.
Minimally Invasive Endourological Techniques may Provide a Novel Method for Relieving Urinary Obstruction due to Ureterosciatic Herniation
Authors: Kato Tomonori , Komiya Akira , Ikeda Ryoichi , Nakamura Takeshi , Akakura Koichiro
Published: August 2014

Ureterosciatic herniation, the protrusion of the hernia sac through the sciatic foramen, is an extremely rare cause of ureteral obstruction. We describe a case revealed by severe left back pain in a 72-year-old female. She was referred to our hospital for urological assessment of left hydronephrosis observed by ultrasonography. Intravenous ureterography (IVU) showed findings compatible with a left sciatic ureter, a dilated ureter with a fixed kinking, which is known as the ‘curlicue' sign. We decided to attempt recovery of the herniated ureter using a retrograde approach. Ureteral stent placement was performed to decompress the dilated upper urinary tract. The ureterosciatic hernia was relieved with the passage of a flexible guide wire and a double-pigtail stent. Three months after ureteral stenting, she refused continuing to have an indwelling stent and the stent was removed. Thereafter, IVU revealed recurrent ureterosciatic hernia; however, there was no hydroureter or hydronephrosis. The patient is currently being under observation for 6 years after stenting and continues to be without hydronephrosis or symptoms. Placement of an internal stent possibly provides the rigidity to the ureter, thereby reducing the hernia and urinary obstruction. In the previous reports, most symptomatic patients have been treated surgically, with conservative therapy reserved for asymptomatic patients. For the patient who is elderly or a poor surgical candidate, retrograde stenting may provide safe reduction and efficacious treatment. This endourological approach provides a minimally invasive means for the management of urinary obstruction caused by ureterosciatic herniation.
Cardiac Metastases of Renal Cell Carcinoma Revealed by Syncope: Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Bazine Aziz , Fetohi Mohamed , Tanz Rachid , Mahfoud Tarik , Ichou Mohamed , Errihani Hassan
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Cardiac metastases from renal cell carcinoma are very rare. In this report, we describe a case of ventricular metastases in the absence of vena cava or right atrial involvement. Case Report: We report the case of a 60-year-old man who had a past history of heavy tobacco intake and well-controlled arterial hypertension. He experienced sudden-onset palpitations, lost consciousness and, as a result, was involved in an accident on the public highway. Cardiac arrhythmia was suspected and, therefore, transthoracic echocardiography was suggested, which revealed a large right ventricular mass. Chest and abdominal computed tomography demonstrated a mass in the right ventricle, but without contiguous vena cava involvement, and a right renal mass related to the probable neoplasm. An ultrasound-guided renal biopsy showed a clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. A bone scan revealed a metastatic bone disease. The patient was started on sunitinib treatment, which was well tolerated. However, approximately 8 months later, reevaluation showed pulmonary metastases. The patient was subsequently started on treatment with everolimus, which, however, was poorly tolerated. Two months later, the patient died due to terminal respiratory insufficiency. Discussion: Based on the literature and our observations in this case, targeted antiangiogenic therapy should be considered as a viable therapeutic alternative to metastasectomy for patients with inoperable cardiac metastatic disease as long as there is no baseline systolic or diastolic dysfunction. The case also emphasizes the importance of a thorough history review and physical examination in the workup of patients with syncope.
Survey of demersal fishes from southern Saudi Arabia, with five new records for the Red Sea
Authors: BOGORODSKY SERGEY V. , ALPERMANN TILMAN J. , MAL AHMAD O. , GABR MOHAMED H.
Published: August 2014

During a survey of demersal fishes of the southern Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia off Jizan, 98 species were collected by trawling. Five of these represent new records for the Red Sea: Saurida longimanus, Dactyloptena gilberti, Jaydia novaeguineae, Pomadasys maculatus and Parapercis maculata. Additionally a specimen of the rare moray Gymnothorax reticularis, previously known from only three specimens, was collected. Records of two species, Parastromateus niger and Pseudorhombus arsius, that formerly were considered questionable, are confirmed by collection of new voucher specimens. Validity of Laeops sinusarabici is confirmed. This study documents parts of the diversity of the demersal fish communities on sandy areas of the southern Red Sea, but also emphasizes that a large proportion of this area has not been explored.
Morphometry and redescription of Parahelichus granulosus (Delève, 1974) with description of P. pseudogranulosus, a new cryptic species of Long-toed Water Beetles (Coleoptera: Dryopidae) from Indochinese peninsula, and proposal of a new synonym for Praehelichus sericatus (Waterhouse, 1881) from China
Authors: LOJKOVÁ SOŇA , Degma Peter , KODADA JÁN
Published: August 2014

A new species of Parahelichus Löbl & Smetana, 2006 is described from Laos and Thailand: P. pseudogranulosus. A similar species, P. granulosus Delève, 1974, which was originally described only from a single specimen, is redescribed and morphometric data are provided from 442 specimens from Vietnam and Laos. Habitus views, illustrations of important characters as well as results of morphometric analyses are presented and discussed. Praehelichus sinensis (Fairmaire, 1888) is proposed as a new junior synonym of P. sericatus (Waterhouse, 1881).
Paolaltica eocenica new genus and new species of flea beetle
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) from Baltic amber
Authors: BIONDI MAURIZIO
Published: August 2014

Paolaltica eocenica new genus and new species (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) is described and illustrated from Upper Eocene Baltic amber. The new taxon is compared with fossil and recent flea beetle genera.
Social Classes, Neodevelopmentalism, and Brazilian Foreign Policy under Presidents Lula and Dilma
Authors: Boito Armando , Berringer Tatiana
Published: August 2014

The transition from the FHC to the Lula administration produced an epochal change within the power bloc. Large-scale international financial capital lost power, while the internal grande bourgeoisie ascended politically because of a policy-oriented broad-front approach that included even the popular classes. The Lula and Dilma governments did not break with the neoliberal model for capitalism, but because they represented a particular fraction of the capitalist class and because they owed their support to particular classes they introduced major changes in the economic policy, the political orientation, and the international performance of the Brazilian state.

Na passagem da era FHC para a era Lula, ocorreu uma mudança no interior do bloco no poder: o grande capital financeiro internacional perdeu força e a grande burguesia interna brasileira ascendeu politicamente, apoiando-se numa ampla frente política que abarca, inclusive, classes populares. Os governos Lula e Dilma não romperam com o modelo de capitalista neoliberal, mas introduziram, em decorrência da fração da classe capitalista que representam e em decorrência também das classes nas quais se apoiam, mudanças importantes na economia, na política e na atuação internacional do Estado brasileiro.
Brazil’s Cooperation with Sub-Saharan Africa in the Rural Sector
Authors: Milhorance de Castro Carolina
Published: August 2014

South-South cooperation is grounded in the idea that partners from the developing world are well placed to propose solutions inspired by their own experiences. A study of the dynamics of the circulation of instruments of public policy framed in the agricultural sector between Brazil and Sub-Saharan Africa under the Lula administration (2003–2010) reveals that political entrepreneurs play a key role in the early transfer stages of this process and that a technical logic of policy transfer through South-South cooperation may pose important challenges to the later stages of reception and adaptation. A notion of complementarity between agribusiness and family farming that reflects recent governmental discourse has been influential in the formulation of initiatives.

A cooperação sul-com-sul se baseia na ideia de que os parceiros do mesmo mundo se situam bem para propor soluções inspiradas pela sua própria experiência. Um estudo da dinâmica de como se difundam os instrumentos das políticas públicas adotadas no setor agrícola entre o Brasil e os paises da África sub-saariana dos tempos da administraçõ do Presidente Lula (2003–2010) revela que os empresários públicas tiveram um papel chave nas etapas iniciais deste processo e que uma lógica técnica da transferència das políticas para tal cooperação sul-com-sul pode apresentar desafios importantes às etapas subsequentes da recepção e adaptação. Uma noção de que pode existir uma complementaridade entre os agronegócios e a agricultura familial—algo que se nota atualmente no discurso governamental—estaba influencial em formular os iniciativos.