bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Gene Expression in the Peripheral Blood and Articular Cartilages of Osteoarthritic Patients and Disease Activity
Authors: Tchetina Elena V. , Poole A. Robin , Zaitseva Elena M. , Sharapova Eugeniya P. , Kashevarova Natalya G. , Taskina Elena A. , Alekseeva Liudmila I. , Semyonova Liudmila A. , Glukhova Svetlana I. , Kuzin Alexandr N. , Makarov Maxim A. , Makarov Sergey A.
Published: June 2013

The gene expression ofmTOR, autophagy-relatedULK1,caspase 3, CDK-inhibitorp21, andTNFαwas measured in the peripheral blood of osteoarthritic (OA) patients at different stages of the disease aiming to establish a gene expression profile that might indicate the activity of the disease and joint destruction. Whole blood of 65 OA outpatients, 27 end-stage OA patients, 27 healthy volunteers, and knee articular cartilages of 28 end-stage OA patients and 26 healthy subjects were examined. OA outpatients were subjected to clinical testing, ultrasonography, and radiographic and WOMAC scoring. Protein levels of p70-S6K, p21, and caspase 3 were quantified by ELISA. Gene expression was measured using real-time RT-PCR. Upregulation ofmTORgene expression was observed in PBMCs of 42 OA outpatients (“HighmTORexpression subset”) and in PBMCs and articular cartilages of all end-stage OA patients. A positive correlation betweenmTORgene expression in PBMCs and cartilage was observed in the end-stage OA patients. 23 OA outpatients in the “LowmTORexpression subset” exhibited significantly lowermTORgene expression in PBMCs compared to healthy controls. These “LowmTOR” subset subjects experienced significantly more pain upon walking, and standing and increased total joint stiffness versus “HighmTOR” subset, while the latter more often exhibited synovitis. The protein concentrations of p70-S6K, p21, and caspase 3 in PBMCs were significantly lower in the “Low” subset versus “High” subset and end-stage subjects. Increases in the expression ofmTORin PBMCs of OA patients are related to disease activity, being associated with synovitis more than with pain.
An Efficient Universal Noise Removal Algorithm Combining Spatial Gradient and Impulse Statistic
Authors: Chen Shuhan , Shi Weiren , Zhang Wenjie
Published: June 2013

We propose a novel universal noise removal algorithm by combining spatial gradient and a new impulse statistic into the trilateral filter. By introducing a reference image, an impulse statistic is proposed, which is called directional absolute relative differences (DARD) statistic. Operation was carried out in two stages: getting reference image and image denoising. For denoising, we introduce the spatial gradient into the Gaussian filtering framework for Gaussian noise removal and integrate our DARD statistic for impulse noise removal, and finally we combine them together to create a new trilateral filter for mixed noise removal. Simulation results show that our noise detector has a high classification rate, especially for salt-and-pepper noise. And the proposed approach achieves great results both in terms of quantitative measures of signal restoration and qualitative judgments of image quality. In addition, the computational complexity of the proposed method is less than that of many other mixed noise filters.
Improved Formulation for the Optimization of Wind Turbine Placement in a Wind Farm
Authors: Geem Zong Woo , Hong Junhee
Published: June 2013

As an alternative to fossil fuels, wind can be considered because it is a renewable and greenhouse gas-free natural resource. When wind power is generated by wind turbines in a wind farm, the optimal placement of turbines is critical because different layouts produce different efficiencies. The objective of the wind turbine placement problem is to maximize the generated power while minimizing the cost in installing the turbines. This study proposes an efficient optimization formulation for the optimal layout of wind turbine placements under the resources (e.g., number of turbines) or budget limit by introducing corresponding constraints. The proposed formulation gave users more conveniences in considering resources and budget bounds. After performing the optimization, results were compared using two different methods (branch and bound method and genetic algorithm) and two different objective functions.
Weighted Vector-Valued Holomorphic Functions on Banach Spaces
Authors: Jordá Enrique
Published: June 2013

We study the weighted Banach spaces of vector-valued holomorphic functions defined on an open and connected subset of a Banach space. We use linearization results on these spaces to get conditions which ensure that a functionfdefined in a subsetAof an open and connected subsetUof a Banach spaceX, with values in another Banach spaceE, and admitting certain weak extensions in a Banach space of holomorphic functions can be holomorphically extended in the corresponding Banach space of vector-valued functions.
Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
Authors: Iddah M. A. , Macharia B. N.
Published: June 2013

Purpose of Review. Studies have been published in the field of autoimmune thyroid diseases since January 2005. The review is organized into areas of etiology, autoimmune features, autoantibodies, mechanism of thyroid cell injury, B-cell responses, and T-cell responses. Also it reviews the diagnosis and the relationship between autoimmune thyroid disease, neoplasm, and kidney disorders. Recent Findings. Autoimmune thyroid diseases have been reported in people living in different parts of the world including North America, Europe, Baalkans, Asia, Middle East, South America, and Africa though the reported figures do not fully reflect the number of people infected per year. Cases are unrecognized due to inaccurate diagnosis and hence are treated as other diseases. However, the most recent studies have shown that the human autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) affect up to 5% of the general population and are seen mostly in women between 30 and 50 years. Summary. Autoimmune thyroid disease is the result of a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Overall, this review has expanded our understanding of the mechanism involved in pathogenesis of AITD and the relationship between autoimmune thyroid disease, neoplasm, and kidney disease. It has opened new lines of investigations that will ultimately result in a better clinical practice.
Persistent Inflammation in the CNS during Chronic EAE Despite Local Absence of IL-17 Production
Authors: Zorzella-Pezavento Sofia Fernanda Gonçalves , Chiuso-Minicucci Fernanda , França Thais Graziela Donegá , Ishikawa Larissa Lumi Watanabe , da Rosa Larissa Camargo , Marques Camila , Ikoma Maura Rosane Valerio , Sartori Alexandrina
Published: June 2013

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an artificially induced demyelination of the central nervous system (CNS) that resembles multiple sclerosis in its clinical, histopathological, and immunological features. Activated Th1 and Th17 cells are thought to be the main immunological players during EAE development. This study was designed to evaluate peripheral and local contribution of IL-17 to acute and chronic EAE stages. C57BL/6 mice were immunized with MOG plus complete Freund’s adjuvant followed by pertussis toxin. Mice presented an initial acute phase characterized by accentuated weight loss and high clinical score, followed by a partial recovery when the animals reached normal body weight and smaller clinical scores. Spleen cells stimulated with MOG produced significantly higher levels of IFN-γduring the acute period whereas similar IL-17 levels were produced during both disease stages. CNS-infiltrating cells stimulated with MOG produced similar amounts of IFN-γbut, IL-17 was produced only at the acute phase of EAE. The percentage of Foxp3+ Treg cells, at the spleen and CNS, was elevated during both phases. The degree of inflammation was similar at both disease stages. Partial clinical recovery observed during chronic EAE was associated with no IL-17 production and presence of Foxp3+ Treg cells in the CNS.
Peptide-Based Vaccinology: Experimental and Computational Approaches to Target Hypervariable Viruses through the Fine Characterization of Protective Epitopes Recognized by Monoclonal Antibodies and the Identification of T-Cell-Activating Peptides
Authors: Castelli Matteo , Cappelletti Francesca , Diotti Roberta Antonia , Sautto Giuseppe , Criscuolo Elena , Dal Peraro Matteo , Clementi Nicola
Published: June 2013

Defining immunogenic domains of viral proteins capable of eliciting a protective immune response is crucial in the development of novel epitope-based prophylactic strategies. This is particularly important for the selective targeting of conserved regions shared among hypervariable viruses. Studying postinfection and postimmunization sera, as well as cloning and characterization of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), still represents the best approach to identify protective epitopes. In particular, a protective mAb directed against conserved regions can play a key role in immunogen design and in human therapy as well. Experimental approaches aiming to characterize protective mAb epitopes or to identify T-cell-activating peptides are often burdened by technical limitations and can require long time to be correctly addressed. Thus, in the last decade many epitope predictive algorithms have been developed. These algorithms are continually evolving, and their use to address the empirical research is widely increasing. Here, we review several strategies based on experimental techniques alone or addressed byin silicoanalysis that are frequently used to predict immunogens to be included in novel epitope-based vaccine approaches. We will list the main strategies aiming to design a new vaccine preparation conferring the protection of a neutralizing mAb combined with an effective cell-mediated response.
Addressing the Question of Disorder-Specific Risk Factors of Internet Addiction: A Comparison of Personality Traits in Patients with Addictive Behaviors and Comorbid Internet Addiction
Authors: Müller K. W. , Koch A. , Dickenhorst U. , Beutel M. E. , Duven E. , Wölfling K.
Published: June 2013

Uncontrolled use of the internet has been reported to affect the lives of some users in a negative way. According to epidemiological studies, about 1% of the general population is showing signs of internet addiction. Since internet addiction is becoming a growing health concern, research on potential risk factors is becoming more important in order to develop strategies for prevention and to adopt therapeutic treatment. Although there are some studies investigating personality traits in internet addiction, most of these studies are based on samples of healthy subjects. In this research project, we compared personality profiles of a sample of patients in different rehabilitation centers. 70 patients with an addiction disorder that additionally met the criteria for internet addiction were compared to 48 patients suffering from alcohol dependence. Besides Big Five personality traits, we also assessed depressive symptoms. It was shown that patients with comorbid internet addiction can be discriminated from other patients by higher neuroticism and lower extraversion as well as lower conscientiousness. After controlling for depressive symptoms, lower conscientiousness especially turned out to be a disorder-specific risk factor. As internet addiction is related to unique patterns of personality traits and can be discriminated from alcohol dependence, treatment approaches are needed that meet the specific requirements of patients with internet addiction.
Gene Expression Patterns Underlying the Reinstatement of Plasticity in the Adult Visual System
Authors: Tiraboschi Ettore , Guirado Ramon , Greco Dario , Auvinen Petri , Maya-Vetencourt Jose Fernando , Maffei Lamberto , Castrén Eero
Published: June 2013

The nervous system is highly sensitive to experience during early postnatal life, but this phase of heightened plasticity decreases with age. Recent studies have demonstrated that developmental-like plasticity can be reactivated in the visual cortex of adult animals through environmental or pharmacological manipulations. These findings provide a unique opportunity to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms of adult plasticity. Here we used the monocular deprivation paradigm to investigate large-scale gene expression patterns underlying the reinstatement of plasticity produced by fluoxetine in the adult rat visual cortex. We found changes, confirmed with RT-PCRs, in gene expression in different biological themes, such as chromatin structure remodelling, transcription factors, molecules involved in synaptic plasticity, extracellular matrix, and excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission. Our findings reveal a key role for several molecules such as the metalloproteases Mmp2 and Mmp9 or the glycoprotein Reelin and open up new insights into the mechanisms underlying the reopening of the critical periods in the adult brain.
Comparing Once- versus Twice-Weekly Yoga Classes for Chronic Low Back Pain in Predominantly Low Income Minorities: A Randomized Dosing Trial
Authors: Saper Robert B. , Boah Ama R. , Keosaian Julia , Cerrada Christian , Weinberg Janice , Sherman Karen J.
Published: June 2013

Background. Previous studies have demonstrated that once-weekly yoga classes are effective for chronic low back pain (cLBP) in white adults with high socioeconomic status. The comparative effectiveness of twice-weekly classes and generalizability to racially diverse low income populations are unknown.Methods. We conducted a 12-week randomized, parallel-group, dosing trial for 95 adults recruited from an urban safety-net hospital and five community health centers comparing once-weekly (n=49) versus twice-weekly (n=46) standardized yoga classes supplemented by home practice. Primary outcomes were change from baseline to 12 weeks in pain (11-point scale) and back-related function (23-point modified Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire).Results. 82% of participants were nonwhite; 77% had annual household incomes <$40,000. The sample’s baseline mean pain intensity [6.9 (SD 1.6)] and function [13.7 (SD 5.0)] reflected moderate to severe back pain and impairment. Pain and back-related function improved within both groups (P<0.001). However, there were no differences between once-weekly and twice-weekly groups for pain reduction [-2.1(95% CI-2.9,-1.3) versus −2.4 (95% CI-3.1,-1.8),P=0.62] or back-related function [-5.1(95% CI-7.0,-3.2) versus −4.9 (95% CI-6.5,-3.3),P=0.83].Conclusions. Twelve weeks of once-weekly or twice-weekly yoga classes were similarly effective for predominantly low income minority adults with moderate to severe chronic low back pain. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT01761617.
Secure Hardware Performance Analysis in Virtualized Cloud Environment
Authors: Tan Chee-Heng , Teh Ying-Wah
Published: June 2013

The main obstacle in mass adoption of cloud computing for database operations is the data security issue. In this paper, it is shown that IT services particularly in hardware performance evaluation invirtual machinecan be accomplished effectively without IT personnel gaining access to real data for diagnostic and remediation purposes. The proposed mechanisms utilizedTPC-Hbenchmark to achieve 2 objectives. First, the underlying hardware performance and consistency is supervised via a control system, which is constructed using a combination ofTPC-Hqueries,linear regression, andmachine learningtechniques. Second,linear programmingtechniques are employed to provide input to the algorithms that construct stress-testing scenarios in thevirtual machine, using the combination ofTPC-Hqueries. These stress-testing scenarios serve 2 purposes. They provide the boundary resource threshold verification to the first control system, so that periodic training of the synthetic data sets for performance evaluation is not constrained by hardware inadequacy, particularly when the resources in thevirtual machineare scaled up or down which results in the change of the utilization threshold. Secondly, they provide a platform for response time verification on critical transactions, so that the expected Quality of Service (QoS) from these transactions is assured.
Aniridia in Two Related Tennessee Walking Horses
Authors: McCormick Karen A. , Ward Daniel , Newkirk Kimberly M.
Published: June 2013

Aniridia in horses is rare and has previously been reported to be genetically transmitted in Belgian horses and Quarter horses. This paper describes the defect in 2 related Tennessee Walking horses, with special reference to new findings regarding the molecular genetics of ocular development and how they might relate to equine aniridia. In addition to aniridia, these 2 horses possessed additional ocular abnormalities including cataracts and dermoid lesions. Euthanasia was elected, and the eyes were examined histologically. Iris hypoplasia, atypical dermoids, and cataracts were confirmed in both horses. Due to the heritability of aniridia in horses, breeding of affected animals is not recommended.
Phenology of Some Phanerogams (Trees and Shrubs) of Northwestern Punjab, India
Authors: Kaur Gurveen , Singh Bhupinder Pal , Nagpal Avinash Kaur
Published: June 2013

Plants perform various vegetative and reproductive functions throughout the year in order to persist in their habitats. The study of these events including their timing and how the environment influences the timing of these events is known as phenology. This study of the timing of seasonal biological activities of plants is very important to know about plant’s survival and its reproductive success. The variation in the phenological activities is due to change in different abiotic conditions. This paper deals with the study of phenological activities like bud formation, flowering time, fruiting time, and seed formation for some leguminous plants of Amritsar, Punjab (a state in the northwest of India) for three consecutive years from 2009 till 2011.
The Use of an Isometric Isomorphism on the Completion of the Space of Henstock-Kurzweil Integrable Functions
Authors: Gutiérrez Méndez Luis Ángel , Escamilla Reyna Juan Alberto , Mendoza Torres Francisco Javier , Morales Macías María Guadalupe
Published: June 2013

Employing an isometrically isomorphic space, we determine new properties for the completion of the space of the Henstock-Kurzweil integrable functions with the Alexiewicz norm.
Positive Solutions for Third-Order Boundary-Value Problems with the Integral Boundary Conditions and Dependence on the First-Order Derivatives
Authors: Guo Yanping , Yang Fei
Published: June 2013

By using a fixed point theorem in a cone and the nonlocal third-order BVP's Green function, the existence of at least one positive solution for the third-order boundary-value problem with the integral boundary conditionsx′′′(t)+f(t,x(t),x′(t))=0,t∈J,x(0)=0,x′′(0)=0, andx(1)=∫01g(t)x(t)dtis considered, wherefis a nonnegative continuous function,J=[0,1], andg∈L[0,1].The emphasis here is thatfdepends on the first-order derivatives.
Therapeutic Application of Cardiac Stem Cells and Other Cell Types
Authors: Hayashi Emiko , Hosoda Toru
Published: June 2013

Various researches on regenerative medicine were carried out experimentally, and selected modalities have been introduced to the clinical arena. Meanwhile, the presence of resident stem cells in the heart and their role in physiological cell turnover were demonstrated. So far skeletal myoblasts, bone marrow-derived cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, and resident cardiac cells have been applied for therapeutic myocardial regeneration. Among them, autologous transplantation of c-kit-positive cardiac stem cells in congestive heart failure patients resulted in an outstanding outcome, with long-lasting beneficial effects without major adverse events. By reviewing these clinical trials, an endeavor was made to seek for an ideal cellular therapy for cardiovascular diseases.
Management of Early Stage, High-Risk Endometrial Carcinoma: Preoperative and Surgical Considerations
Authors: Singh Sareena , Raidoo Shandhini , Pettigrew Gaetan , DeBernardo Robert
Published: June 2013

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the developed world. Most cases are diagnosed at an early stage and have low-grade histology, portending an overall excellent prognosis. There exists a subgroup of patients with early, high-risk disease, whose management remains controversial, as current data is clouded by inclusion of early stage tumors with different high-risk features for recurrence, unstandardized protocols for surgical staging, and an evolving staging system by which we are grouping these patients. Here, we present preoperative and intraoperative considerations that should be taken into account when planning surgical management for this population of patients.
Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Caused by Antiretroviral Treatment: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Aigner B. , Brockow K. , Darsow U. , Ring J. , Plötz S. G.
Published: June 2013

Palmoplantar erythrodysesthesia is an uncommon localised cutaneous reaction to certain chemotherapeutic agents and characterized by painful palmoplantar erythema and dysesthesia. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of plantar erythrodysesthesia in a 40-year-old male patient receiving an antiretroviral combination therapy for HIV.
Neonatal Intensive Care and Child Psychiatry Inpatient Care: Do Different Working Conditions Influence Stress Levels?
Authors: Mörelius Evalotte , Gustafsson Per A. , Ekberg Kerstin , Nelson Nina
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Nurses often experience work-related stress. High stress can negatively affect job satisfaction and lead to emotional exhaustion with risk of burnout.Aim. To analyse possible differences in biological stress markers, psychosocial working conditions, health, and well-being between nurses working in two different departments.Methods. Stress was evaluated in nurses working in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (n=33) and nurses working in a child and adolescent psychiatry inpatient ward (CAP) (n=14) using salivary cortisol and HbA1c. Salivary cortisol was measured three times a day on two consecutive days during two one-week periods, seven weeks apart (= 12 samples/person). Psychosocial working conditions, health, and well-being were measured once.Results. NICU nurses had better social support and more self-determination. CAP nurses had a lower salivary cortisol quotient, poorer general health, and higher client-related burnout scores.Conclusion. When comparing these nurses with existing norm data for Sweden, as a group their scores reflect less work-related stress than Swedes overall. However, the comparison between NICU and CAP nurses indicates a less healthy work situation for CAP nurses.Relevance to Clinical Practice. Healthcare managers need to acknowledge the less healthy work situation CAP nurses experience in order to provide optimal support and promote good health.
Association of Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors “Results from a Community Based Study on 5900 Adult Subjects”
Authors: Najafipour Hamid , Malek Mohammadi Tayebeh , Rahim Foad , Haghdoost Ali Akbar , Shadkam Mitra , Afshari Mahdi
Published: June 2013

Objectives. This study aimed to determine the association between some oral health status as a risk factor for cardiac diseases and other cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in a sample of Iranian population in 2011. Methods. The study recruited 5900 inhabitants who aged 15–75 years old of Kerman city through a population based cluster sampling. Having collected informed consent, participants were interviewed for CVD risk factors. Some oral health indicators such as DMFT, Gingival Inflammation index, and Community Periodontal Index were assessed. The association between oral health indices and CVD risk factors was tested using multivariate regression models. Results. The mean age of participants was 33.5 years, and 45.1% were male. Moderate gingival inflammation was observed in 67.6% of participants. Presence of sub- or supragingival calculus was more common (90%) in participants. Older age (RR from 2.7 to 3.88), cigarette smoking (RR = 1.49), and high blood glucose (RR = 1.41) showed an increased risk for oral diseases after adjustment for different covariates including established CVD risk factors. Conclusion. The study results showed an increase in periodontal diseases in the presence of some CVD risk factors. Therefore there may be a bilateral but independent association for both conditions and common risk factor approach preventive program is highly recommended.
Can Written Disclosure Reduce Psychological Distress and Increase Objectively Measured Injury Mobility of Student-Athletes? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Duncan Elaine , Gidron Yori , Lavallee David
Published: June 2013

Injured students-athletes took part in a randomized controlled trial to test whether written disclosure could reduce psychological distress and improve injury mobility. Writing took place alongside prescribed physical rehabilitation and consisted of three 20-minute writing sessions, once a week for three consecutive weeks. Participants in the experimental injury-writing group followed a structured form of written disclosure, called the guided disclosure protocol (GDP). They firstly, wrote about the onset of their injury in a chronological manner, secondly, they explicitly labelled their emotions and described the impact of the injury, finally they wrote about future coping and psychological growth. Controls wrote about nonemotional and noninjury related topics. In addition to self-report measures, a physiotherapist, blind to experimental condition, assessed mobility at the injury site. Although self-report indices remained unchanged, the GDP group evidenced a significant improvement in injury mobility compared to controls.
Rare Case of Renal Cell Carcinoma with Mandibular Swelling as Primary Presentation
Authors: Jallu Aleena , Latoo Manzoor , Pampori Rafiq
Published: June 2013

Introduction.Renal cell carcinoma accounts for approximately 3% of adult malignancies and 90–95% of neoplasms arising from the kidney. This disease is characterized by a lack of early warning signs, diverse clinical manifestations, and resistance to radiation and chemotherapy. Approximately one-third of patients with renal cell carcinoma have metastatic disease at initial presentation. Fifteen percent of patients with renal cell carcinoma are said to present with metastases in the head and neck region. Most of the metastases from RCC to the head and neck involve the thyroid gland. The head and neck are unusual sites for metastases, but skin, skeletal muscle, thyroid gland, nasal cavity and paranasal sinus metastases have been reported.Case Report.The following report describes a rare case where the patient presented with mandibular swelling of short duration as the primary complaint without any symptom or sign pertaining to urinary tract and was found to have renal cell carcinoma on further workup.Conclusion.Metastatic renal cell carcinoma is a diagnostic dilemma especially when there is no pointer historically towards renal cell carcinoma as was in our case. An unusual vascular osteolytic lesion in head and neck in a middle-aged person should be dealt with high index of suspicion with renal cell carcinoma at the back of the mind.
Application of Ferrite Nanomaterial in RF On‐Chip Inductors
Authors: Cai Hua-Lin , Zhan Jing , Yang Chen , Chen Xiao , Yang Yi , Chi Bao-Yong , Wang Albert , Ren Tian-Ling
Published: June 2013

Several kinds of ferrite‐integrated on‐chip inductors are presented. Ferrite nanomaterial applied in RF on‐chip inductors is prepared and analyzed to show the properties of high permeability, high ferromagnetic resonance frequency, high resistivity, and low loss, which has the potential that will improve the performance of RF on‐chip inductors. Simulations of different coil and ferrite nanomaterial parameters, inductor structures, and surrounding structures are also conducted to achieve the trend of gains of inductance and quality factor of on‐chip inductors. By integrating the prepared ferrite magnetic nanomaterial to the on‐chip inductors with different structures, the measurement performances show an obvious improvement even in GHz frequency range. In addition, the studies of CMOS compatible process to integrate the nanomaterial promote the widespread application of magnetic nanomaterial in RF on‐chip inductors.
On a Hypersurface of a Finsler Space with Randers Change of Matsumoto Metric
Authors: Gupta M. K. , Singh Abhay , Pandey P. N.
Published: June 2013

The present paper contains certain geometrical properties of a hypersurface of a Finsler space with Randers change of Matsumoto metric.
The Role of the Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway in the Cellular Response to Methylmercury
Authors: Kumagai Yoshito , Kanda Hironori , Shinkai Yasuhiro , Toyama Takashi
Published: June 2013

Methylmercury (MeHg) is an environmental electrophile that covalently modifies cellular proteins with reactive thiols, resulting in the formation of protein adducts. While such protein modifications, referred to asS-mercuration, are thought to be associated with the enzyme dysfunction and cellular damage caused by MeHg exposure, the current consensus is that (1) there is a cellular response to MeHg through the activation of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) coupled toS-mercuration of its negative regulator, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), and (2) the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway protects against MeHg toxicity. In this review, we introduce our findings and discuss the observations of other workers concerning theS-mercuration of cellular proteins by MeHg and the importance of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in protection against MeHg toxicity in cultured cells and mice.
Application of Calcium Phosphate Materials in Dentistry
Authors: Al-Sanabani Jabr S. , Madfa Ahmed A. , Al-Sanabani Fadhel A.
Published: June 2013

Calcium phosphate materials are similar to bone in composition and in having bioactive and osteoconductive properties. Calcium phosphate materials in different forms, as cements, composites, and coatings, are used in many medical and dental applications. This paper reviews the applications of these materials in dentistry. It presents a brief history, dental applications, and methods for improving their mechanical properties. Notable research is highlighted regarding (1) application of calcium phosphate into various fields in dentistry; (2) improving mechanical properties of calcium phosphate; (3) biomimetic process and functionally graded materials. This paper deals with most common types of the calcium phosphate materials such as hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate which are currently used in dental and medical fields.
A New Characterization of Generalized Weighted Composition Operators from the Bloch Space into the Zygmund Space
Authors: Li Hao , Fu Xiaohong
Published: June 2013

A new criterion for the boundedness and the compactness of the generalized weighted composition operators from the Bloch space into the Zygmund space is given in this paper.
Nitric Oxide in Cerebral Vasospasm: Theories, Measurement, and Treatment
Authors: Siuta Michael , Zuckerman Scott L. , Mocco J.
Published: June 2013

In recent decades, a large body of research has focused on the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the development of cerebral vasospasm (CV) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Literature searches were therefore conducted regarding the role of NO in cerebral vasospasm, specifically focusing on NO donors, reactive nitrogen species, and peroxynitrite in manifestation of vasospasm. Based off the assessment of available evidence, two competing theories are reviewed regarding the role of NO in vasospasm. One school of thought describes a deficiency in NO due to scavenging by hemoglobin in the cisternal space, leading to an NO signaling deficit and vasospastic collapse. A second hypothesis focuses on the dysfunction of nitric oxide synthase, an enzyme that synthesizes NO, and subsequent generation of reactive nitrogen species. Both theories have strong experimental evidence behind them and hold promise for translation into clinical practice. Furthermore, NO donors show definitive promise for preventing vasospasm at the angiographic and clinical level. However, NO augmentation may also cause systemic hypotension and worsen vasospasm due to oxidative distress. Recent evidence indicates that targeting NOS dysfunction, for example, through erythropoietin or statin administration, also shows promise at preventing vasospasm and neurotoxicity. Ultimately, the role of NO in neurovascular disease is complex. Neither of these theories is mutually exclusive, and both should be considered for future research directions and treatment strategies.
Fixed Points for Weakα-ψ-Contractions in Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Kumam Poom , Vetro Calogero , Vetro Francesca
Published: June 2013

Recently, Samet et al. (2012) introduced the notion ofα-ψ-contractive mappings and established some fixed point results in the setting of complete metric spaces. In this paper, we introduce the notion of weakα-ψ-contractive mappings and give fixed point results for this class of mappings in the setting of partial metric spaces. Also, we deduce fixed point results in ordered partial metric spaces. Our results extend and generalize the results of Samet et al.
Clonal Mast Cell Activation Syndrome with Anaphylaxis to Sulfites
Authors: Cifuentes Liliana , Ring Johannes , Brockow Knut
Published: June 2013

Sulfites are rarely suspected as causative agents of immediate-type hypersensitivity. We report on a 49-year-old male patient who developed recurrent severe hypotension after food ingestion. A diagnosis of monoclonal mast cell activation syndrome was established. In the double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge, the patient reacted to potassium metabisulfite with anaphylaxis.
Central Venous Catheter Infections in Outpatients with Pulmonary Hypertension Treated with Continuous Iloprost
Authors: Keusch Stephan , Speich Rudolf , Treder Ulla , Ulrich Somaini Silvia
Published: June 2013

Background: Intravenous prostanoid therapy is one cornerstone of therapy for patients with pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (PH). Long-term central venous catheters expose patients to infectious complications. Objectives: We report the incidence of catheter-related infection (CRI) and the spectrum of bacteria for ambulatory PH patients treated with iloprost via non-tunnelled central venous catheters from our Swiss referral centre in Zurich. Methods: Data from 15 PH patients treated with intravenous iloprost between May 2000 and June 2012 were reviewed. Results: We found 11 CRI in 4 cases by two different organisms. Pathogens found were Brevibacterium (55%), Micrococcus luteus (18%), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (9%) and Staphylococcus aureus (9%), as well as unusual organisms such as Agrobacterium tumefaciens or Delftia tsuruhatensis. The overall CRI rate was 1.28 per 1,000 catheter days, or 0.47 per year. Conclusions: The incidence of CRI using long-term, non-tunnelled central venous catheters in PH patients treated with iloprost is low. Uncommon, rare pathogens causing CRI were found in a substantial number of patients.
Anti-rPru p 3 IgE Levels Are Inversely Related to the Age at Onset of Peach-Induced Severe Symptoms Reported by Peach-Allergic Adults
Authors: Pastorello Elide Anna , Farioli Laura , Stafylaraki Chrysi , Mascheri Ambra , Scibilia Joseph , Pravettoni Valerio , Primavesi Laura , Piantanida Marta , Nichelatti Michele , Asero Riccardo
Published: June 2013

Sensitisation to peach lipid transfer protein (LTP; Pru p 3) is significantly associated with severe allergic symptoms in adults, but little is known about the age at onset of peach allergy. We investigated a possible correlation between specific IgE levels to Pru p 3 and the age at onset of peach allergy. One hundred and forty-eight patients allergic to peach were divided into 6 classes according to the age at onset. Sera were analyzed for IgE antibodies to peach, rPru p 3, rPru p 1, rPru p 4, rBet v 1, rBet v 2, total IgE titre, and tryptase; all collected data were statistically analysed. A significant inverse correlation was found between the age at onset of peach allergy and anti-rPru p 3 IgE levels at diagnosis (p < 0.0005; Spearman's ρ = -0.3833). In contrast, the age at onset was directly correlated with both anti-rPru p 1 IgE levels (p = 0.0001; Spearman's ρ = 0.3197) and anti-rBet v 1 IgE levels (p = 0.0006; Spearman's ρ = 0.2914) at diagnosis. No correlations were detected between the reported age at onset and anti-peach, anti-rPru p 4, anti-rBet v 2 IgE and total IgE values and serum tryptase levels. At diagnosis, when peach allergy starts at a younger age, it is likely associated with Pru p 3 sensitisation, and the younger the onset, the higher the IgE titres. When peach allergy starts at an older age, it is more likely the result of cross-reactivity to Bet v1.
Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation from Human Leukocyte Antigen-Matched Sibling Donors and Unrelated Donors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients
Authors: Kim Hee-Je , Kim Sung-Yong , Lee Mark Hong , Min Woo-Sung
Published: June 2013

There have been rare comparative studies of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from matched sibling donors (MSDs) and unrelated donors (URDs) with regard to peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT). We performed a retrospective study of 104 consecutive acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients who had received an allogeneic PBSCT from an MSD or a URD in order to compare transplant outcomes and posttransplant complications between the 2 groups of patients. The cumulative incidence of grade 2-4 acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) at 100 days (22.6% with MSD vs. 35.3% with URD; p = 0.107) and that of chronic GVHD (cGVHD) at 2 years (72.9% with MSD vs. 56.1% with URD; p = 0.153) was not significantly different between the 2 groups. Multivariate analysis also indicated that a URD was not an independent predictor of grade 2-4 aGVHD or cGVHD. No statistically significant differences were observed in terms of relapse incidence (p = 0.371), nonrelapse mortality (p = 0.473), disease-free survival (p = 0.925) or overall survival (p = 0.534) at 2 years. URDs are comparable with MSDs as a donor type for PBSCT in AML patients if risk-stratified GVHD prophylaxis is adopted.
Trail Making Test Part A and Brain Perfusion Imaging in Mild Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Shindo Aki , Terada Seishi , Sato Shuhei , Ikeda Chikako , Nagao Shigeto , Oshima Etsuko , Yokota Osamu , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: June 2013

Background/Aims: The Trail Making Test (TMT) has long been used to investigate deficits in cognitive processing speed and executive function in humans. However, there are few studies that elucidate the neural substrates of the TMT. The aim of the present study was to identify the regional perfusion patterns of the brain associated with performance on the TMT part A (TMT-A) in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: Eighteen AD patients with poor performance on the TMT-A and 36 age- and sex-matched AD patients with good performance were selected. All subjects underwent brain single photon emission computed tomography. Results: No significant differences between the good and poor performance groups were found with respect to years of education and revised Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination scores. However, higher z-scores for hypoperfusion in the bilateral superior parietal lobule were observed in the group that scored poorly on the TMT-A compared with the good performance group. Conclusion: Our results suggest that functional activity of the bilateral superior parietal lobules is closely related to performance time on the TMT-A. Thus, the performance time on the TMT-A might be a promising index of dysfunction of the superior parietal area among mild AD patients.
Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease: A Retrospective Review of Forty-Seven Patients
Authors: Matsuoka Akihiro J. , Harris Jeffrey P.
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this retrospective study was to characterize and further define autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) using the Harris AIED classification. A retrospective review was conducted at two tertiary medical centers for 47 patients who were diagnosed with AIED. The overall patient response rate to oral prednisone treatment was 69.7%. The sensitivity of the test for a serum antibody against heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) was 54.5% and the specificity was 42.9%. Therefore, the clinical utility of the HSP70 antibody test appeared to be limited with respect to the diagnosis of AIED. Vertigo, tinnitus and aural fullness improved significantly with both of the newly developed adalimumab (Humira®) and rituximab (Rituxan®). However, hearing loss did not improve in the present study.
Sexual Dimorphism of the Electrosensory System: A Quantitative Analysis of Nerve Axons in the Dorsal Anterior Lateral Line Nerve of the Blue-Spotted Fantail Stingray (Taeniura lymma)
Authors: Kempster R.M. , Garza-Gisholt E. , Egeberg C.A. , Hart N.S. , O'Shea O.R. , Collin S.P.
Published: June 2013

Quantitative studies of sensory axons provide invaluable insights into the functional significance and relative importance of a particular sensory modality. Despite the important role electroreception plays in the behaviour of elasmobranchs, to date, there have been no studies that have assessed the number of electrosensory axons that project from the peripheral ampullae to the central nervous system (CNS). The complex arrangement and morphology of the peripheral electrosensory system has a significant influence on its function. However, it is not sufficient to base conclusions about function on the peripheral system alone. To fully appreciate the function of the electrosensory system, it is essential to also assess the neural network that connects the peripheral system to the CNS. Using stereological techniques, unbiased estimates of the total number of axons were obtained for both the electrosensory bundles exiting individual ampullary organs and those entering the CNS (via the dorsal root of the anterior lateral line nerve, ALLN) in males and females of different sizes. The dorsal root of the ALLN consists solely of myelinated electrosensory axons and shows both ontogenetic and sexual dimorphism. In particular, females exhibit a greater abundance of electrosensory axons, which may result in improved sensitivity of the electrosensory system and may facilitate mate identification for reproduction. Also presented are detailed morphological data on the peripheral electrosensory system to allow a complete interpretation of the functional significance of the sexual dimorphism found in the ALLN.
Haploinsufficiency of ANKRD11 (16q24.3) Is Not Obligatorily Associated with Cognitive Impairment but Shows a Clinical Overlap with Silver-Russell Syndrome
Authors: Spengler S. , Oehl-Jaschkowitz B. , Begemann M. , Hennes P. , Zerres K. , Eggermann T.
Published: June 2013

Microdeletions in 16q24.3 are associated with intellectual disability and a specific phenotype, e.g. short stature and a prominent forehead. The 16q24.3 microdeletion syndrome shows a broad phenotypic overlap with the KBG syndrome, which is caused by mutations within the ANKRD11 gene. Furthermore, both KBG and the 16q24.3 microdeletion syndromes show clinical findings reminiscent of Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS), an imprinting disorder characterized by severe primordial growth retardation. In a cohort of patients referred as SRS, we previously identified a 16q24.3 deletion, but at that time, only patients with larger imbalances in 16q24.3 and intellectual disability had been published. Considering the recent description of the ANKRD11 gene as the causative factor for the 2 16q24.3-associated disorders, we now classified our patient as a 16q24.3 microdeletion syndrome patient exhibiting some characteristic features but normal intelligence. Our case illustrates the broad clinical spectrum associated with microdeletions, and we confirm that the 16q24.3 microdeletion syndrome is a further microdeletion syndrome with very variable expressivity. Indeed, our case is the first 16q24.3 patient of normal intelligence, but we assume that this variant is present in further mentally healthy probands which have not yet been tested. In conclusion, the detection of the 16q24.3 deletion in a proband of unremarkable intellectual capacities once again illustrates the need to perform molecular karyotyping in dysmorphic patients with normal intelligence.
Close Relations between Podocyte Injuries and Membranous Proliferative Glomerulonephritis in Autoimmune Murine Models
Authors: Kimura Junpei , Ichii Osamu , Otsuka Saori , Sasaki Hayato , Hashimoto Yoshiharu , Kon Yasuhiro
Published: June 2013

Background: Membranous proliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a major primary cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Podocyte injury is crucial in the pathogenesis of glomerular disease with proteinuria, leading to CKD. To assess podocyte injuries in MPGN, the pathological features of spontaneous murine models were analyzed. Methods: The autoimmune-prone mice strains BXSB/MpJ-Yaa and B6.MRL-(D1Mit202-D1Mit403) were used as the MPGN models, and BXSB/MpJ-Yaa+ and C57BL/6 were used as the respective controls. In addition to clinical parameters and glomerular histopathology, the protein and mRNA levels of podocyte functional markers were evaluated as indices for podocyte injuries. The relation between MPGN pathology and podocyte injuries was analyzed by statistical correlation. Results: Both models developed MPGN with albuminuria and elevated serum anti-double-strand DNA (dsDNA) antibody levels. BXSB/MpJ-Yaa and B6.MRL showed severe proliferative lesions with T and B cell infiltrations and membranous lesions with T cell infiltrations, respectively. Foot process effacement and microvillus-like structure formation were observed ultrastructurally in the podocytes of both MPGN models. Furthermore, both MPGN models showed a decrease in immune-positive areas of nephrin, podocin and synaptopodin in the glomerulus, and in the mRNA expression of Nphs1, Nphs2, Synpo, Actn4, Cd2ap, and Podxl in the isolated glomerulus. Significant negative correlations were detected between serum anti-dsDNA antibody levels and glomerular Nphs1 expression, and between urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio and glomerular expression of Nphs1, Synpo, Actn4, Cd2ap, or Podxl.Conclusion: MPGN models clearly developed podocyte injuries characterized by the decreased expression of podocyte functional markers with altered morphology. These data emphasized the importance of regulation of podocyte injuries in MPGN.