bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin infusion suppresses while glucose infusion induces Toll-like receptors and high-mobility group-B1 protein expression in mononuclear cells of type 1 diabetes patients
Authors: Dandona Paresh , Ghanim Husam , Green Kelly , Sia Chang Ling , Abuaysheh Sanaa , Kuhadiya Nitesh , Batra Manav , Dhindsa Sandeep , Chaudhuri Ajay
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine whether an insulin infusion exerts an anti-inflammatory effect and whether the infusion of small amounts of glucose results in oxidative and inflammatory stress in patients with type 1 diabetes. Ten patients with type 1 diabetes were infused with either 2 U/h of insulin with 100 ml 5% dextrose/h to or just dextrose (100 ml/h) or physiological saline (100 ml/h) for 4 h after an overnight fast on three separate days. Blood samples were collected at 0, 2, 4, and 6 h. Insulin with glucose infusion led to the maintenance of euglycemia and a significant suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, p47phox expression, Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4, TLR-2, TLR-1, CD14, high-mobility group-B1 (HMGB1), p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK)-1, and platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule expression and a fall in serum concentrations of C-reactive protein, HMGB1, and rapid upon activation T cell expressed and secreted. Glucose infusion led to an increase in plasma glucose concentration from 115 (fasting) to 215 (at 4 and 6 h) mg/dl and to an increase in ROS generation, the expression of TLR-4, TLR-2, TLR-1, HMGB1, p38 MAP kinase, and JNK-1, and plasma concentrations of HMGB1. While insulin reduces indexes of oxidative and inflammatory stress in patients with type 1 diabetes, even small amounts of glucose (20 g over 4 h) induce oxidative and inflammatory stress. These effects are reflected in TLR, p38 MAP kinase, and HMGB1 expression. The induction of significant oxidative and inflammatory stress by small amounts of glucose in patients with type 1 diabetes may have important pathophysiological and therapeutic implications.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Rosuvastatin, Atorvastatin and Pravastatin among Dyslipidemic Diabetic Patients
Authors: Barakat Lolwa , Jayyousi Amin , Bener Abdulbari , Zuby Bilal , Zirie Mahmoud
Published: February 2013

Objectives. To investigate the efficacy and the safety of the three most commonly prescribed statins (rosuvastatin, atorvastatin, and pravastatin) for managing dyslipidemia among diabetic patients in Qatar. Subjects and Methods. This retrospective observational population-based study included 350 consecutive diabetes patients who were diagnosed with dyslipidemia and prescribed any of the indicated statins between September 2005 and September 2009. Data was collected by review of the Pharmacy Database, the Electronic Medical Records Database (EMR viewer), and the Patient's Medical Records. Comparisons of lipid profile measurements at baseline and at first- and second-year intervals were taken. Results. Rosuvastatin (10 mg) was the most effective at reducing LDL-C (29.03%). Atorvastatin reduced LDL-C the most at a dose of 40 mg (22.8%), and pravastatin reduced LDL-C the most at a dose of 20 mg (20.3%). All three statins were safe in relation to muscular and hepatic functions. In relation to renal function, atorvastatin was the safest statin as it resulted in the least number of patients at the end of 2 years of treatment with the new onset of microalbuminuria (10.9%) followed by rosuvastatin (14.3%) and then pravastatin (26.6%). Conclusion. In the Qatari context, the most effective statin at reducing LDL-C was rosuvastatin 10 mg. Atorvastatin was the safest statin in relation to renal function. Future large-scale prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Extraction of Correlated Sparse Sources from Signal Mixtures
Authors: Woolfson M. S. , Bigan C. , Crowe J. A. , Hayes-Gill B. R.
Published: February 2013

A blind source separation method is described to extract sources from data mixtures where the underlying sources are sparse and correlated. The approach used is to detect and analyze segments of time where one source exists on its own. The method does not assume independence of sources and probability density functions are not assumed for any of the sources. A comparison is made between the proposed method and the Fast-ICA and Clusterwise PCA methods. It is shown that the proposed method works best for cases where the underlying sources are strongly correlated because Fast-ICA assumes zero correlation between sources and Clusterwise PCA can be sensitive to overlap between sources. However, for cases of sources that are sparse and weakly correlated with each other, there is a tendency for Fast-ICA and Clusterwise PCA to have better performances than the proposed method, the reason being that these methods appear to be more robust to changes in input parameters to the algorithms. In addition, because of the deflationary nature of the proposed method, there is a tendency for estimates to be more affected by noise than Fast-ICA when the number of sources increases. The paper concludes with a discussion concerning potential applications for the proposed method.
Methanol‐Sensing Property Improvement of Mesostructured Zinc Oxide Prepared by the Nanocasting Strategy
Authors: Gao Qian , Zheng Wei-Tao , Wei Cun-Di , Lin Hui-Ming
Published: February 2013

The specific structure and morphology often play a critical role in governing the excellent intrinsic properties of the compound semiconductor. Herein, mesostructured ZnO with excellent methanol‐sensing properties was prepared by a structure replication procedure through the incipient wetness technique. The investigation on the crystal structure and morphology of the resultant material shows that the product consists of hexagonally arranged mesopores and crystalline walls, and its structure is an ideal replication of CMK‐3 template. Consequently, mesostructured ZnO was fabricated as a gas sensor for methanol. The excellent methanol‐sensing performance was achieved at a relatively low operating temperature of 120°C. In comparison with the nonporous ZnO prepared through conventional coprecipitation approach, mesostructured ZnO material shows the higher sensitivity and stability. Furthermore, it shows the discrimination between methanol and ethanol sensitivity, which makes it a good candidate in fabricating selective methanol sensor in practice.
Structural Variations of Human Glucokinase Glu256Lys in MODY2 Condition Using Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Yellapu Nanda Kumar , Kandlapalli Kalpana , Valasani Koteswara Rao , Sarma P. V. G. K. , Matcha Bhaskar
Published: February 2013

Glucokinase (GK) is the predominant hexokinase that acts as glucose sensor and catalyses the formation of Glucose-6-phosphate. The mutations in GK gene influence the affinity for glucose and lead to altered glucose levels in blood causing maturity onset diabetes of the young type 2 (MODY2) condition, which is one of the prominent reasons of type 2 diabetic condition. In view of the importance of mutated GK resulting in hyperglycemic condition, in the present study, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out in intact and 256 E-K mutated GK structures and their energy values and conformational variations were correlated. Energy variations were observed in mutated GK (3500 Kcal/mol) structure with respect to intact GK (5000 Kcal/mol), and it showed increasedγ-turns, decreasedβ-turns, and more helix-helix interactions that affected substrate binding region where its volume increased from 1089.152 Å2to 1246.353 Å2. Molecular docking study revealed variation in docking scores (intact = −12.199 and mutated = −8.383) and binding mode of glucose in the active site of mutated GK where the involvement of A53, S54, K56, K256, D262 and Q286 has resulted in poor glucose binding which probably explains the loss of catalytic activity and the consequent prevailing of high glucose levels in MODY2 condition.
Urine Cell-Free DNA Integrity as a Marker for Early Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Casadio Valentina , Calistri Daniele , Salvi Samanta , Gunelli Roberta , Carretta Elisa , Amadori Dino , Silvestrini Rosella , Zoli Wainer
Published: February 2013

Circulating cell-free DNA has been recognized as an accurate marker for the diagnosis of prostate cancer, whereas the role of urine cell-free DNA (UCF DNA) has never been evaluated in this setting. It is known that normal apoptotic cells produce highly fragmented DNA while cancer cells release longer DNA. We thus verified the potential role of UCF DNA integrity for early prostate cancer diagnosis. UCF DNA was isolated from 29 prostate cancer patients and 25 healthy volunteers. Sequences longer than 250 bp (c-Myc,BCAS1, andHER2) were quantified by real-time PCR to verify UCF DNA integrity. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.7959 (95% CI 0.6729–0.9188). At the best cut-off value of 0.04 ng/μL, UCF DNA integrity analysis showed a sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.62–0.90) and a specificity of 0.84 (95% CI 0.65–0.94). These preliminary findings indicate that UCF DNA integrity could be a promising noninvasive marker for the early diagnosis of prostate cancer and pave the way for further research into this area.
One More Tool for Understanding Resonance and the Way for a New Definition
Authors: Gluskin Emanuel , Shmilovitz Doron , Levron Yoash
Published: February 2013

We propose the application of graphical convolution to the analysis of the resonance phenomenon. This time-domain approach encompasses both the finally attained periodic oscillations and the initial transient period. It also provides interesting discussion concerning the analysis of nonsinusoidal waves, based not on frequency analysis but on direct consideration of waveforms, and thus presenting an introduction to Fourier series. Further developing the point of view of graphical convolution, we arrive at a new definition of resonance in terms of time domain.
A Review of Subspace Segmentation: Problem, Nonlinear Approximations, and Applications to Motion Segmentation
Authors: Aldroubi Akram
Published: February 2013

The subspace segmentation problem is fundamental in many applications. The goal is to cluster data drawn from an unknown union of subspaces. In this paper we state the problem and describe its connection to other areas of mathematics and engineering. We then review the mathematical and algorithmic methods created to solve this problem and some of its particular cases. We also describe the problem of motion tracking in videos and its connection to the subspace segmentation problem and compare the various techniques for solving it.
The Use of a Cutting Balloon for Dilation of a Fibrous Esophageal Stricture in a Cat
Authors: Gallagher Alexander E. , Specht Andrew J.
Published: February 2013

Esophageal strictures are uncommon in cats with causes including medications, ingestion of caustic substances, or gastroesophageal reflux under anesthesia. Bougienage and balloon dilation are the main treatments for strictures but have variable success rates. This paper describes the novel use of a cutting balloon for dilation of a fibrous stricture in a cat that was previously refractory to treatment with traditional balloon dilation.
Detection ofC. trachomatisin the Serum of the Patients with Urogenital Chlamydiosis
Authors: Zigangirova Naylia A. , Rumyantseva Yulia P. , Morgunova Elena Y. , Kapotina Lidia N. , Didenko Lubov V. , Kost Elena A. , Koroleva Ekaterina A. , Bashmakov Yuriy K. , Petyaev Ivan M.
Published: February 2013

Extragenital chlamydial complications may be associated with systemic spread of infection, but haematogenous route forC. trachomatisdissemination has not been clearly demonstrated. Here we report that serum specimens obtained from patients with chlamydiosis contain elementary bodies ofC. trachomatisshown by culture and immunogold electron microscopy. We have found that 31 of the 52 patients had serum precipitates which were infective to McCoy cells. Immunostaining revealed very small inclusions resembling those reported during persistentC. trachomatisinfectionin vitro. DNA specimens from 49 (out of 52) patients with chlamydiosis gave positive PCR readings. The viability of the pathogen present in the sera was confirmed by chlamydial RNA detection in the cell monolayer inoculated by the serum precipitates. By using DNA isolation protocol from 1 mL of serum and quantitative TaqMan PCR, it was estimated that bacterial load in patients’ sera was2×102–103 GE/mL. These findings for the first time demonstrated thatC. trachomatiscan be disseminated directly by the plasma, independently from blood cell, which may represent a new possible pathway of the chronic infection development. Therefore, new methodological approaches for detection ofC. trachomatisin the serum of patients with complicated and chronic chlamydiosis could be important in the diagnosis of the infection regardless of its anatomical localization.
Generalized Pattern-Matching Conditions for
Authors: Kitaev Sergey , Niedermaier Andrew , Remmel Jeffrey , Riehl Manda
Published: February 2013

We derive several multivariable generating functions for a generalized pattern-matching condition on the wreath product of the cyclic group and the symmetric group . In particular, we derive the generating functions for the number of matches that occur in elements of for any pattern of length 2 by applying appropriate homomorphisms from the ring of symmetric functions over an infinite number of variables to simple symmetric function identities. This allows us to derive several natural analogues of the distribution of rises relative to the product order on elements of . Our research leads to connections to many known objects/structures yet to be explained combinatorially.
Diversity of Millipedes in Alagar Hills Reserve Forest in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Alagesan Periasamy , Ramanathan Baluchamy
Published: February 2013

Millipede diversity and abundance were analysed at sites lying between 250 and 650 meters above mean sea level in Alagar Hills of Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India. Millipede abundance and diversity peaked at midelevations influenced by favourable niche and food resources. Diversity of millipedes indicates the influence of local habitat and food resource availability. In the present study, millipede species, Harpaphe haydeniana, Xenobolus carnifex, Arthrosphaera magna, Aulacobolus newtoni, and Spinotarsus colosseus, are present at midelevation (450 MSL). Abundance of millipedes at 450 m elevation is due to moderate canopy and litter, which support understorey vegetation like herbs and shrubs.
A Review of the Effect of Processing Variables on the Fabrication of Electrospun Nanofibers for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Pillay Viness , Dott Clare , Choonara Yahya E. , Tyagi Charu , Tomar Lomas , Kumar Pradeep , du Toit Lisa C. , Ndesendo Valence M. K.
Published: February 2013

Electrospinning is a fast emerging technique for producing ultrafine fibers by utilizing electrostatic repulsive forces. The technique has gathered much attention due to the emergence of nanotechnology that sparked worldwide research interest in nanomaterials for their preparation and application in biomedicine and drug delivery. Electrospinning is a simple, adaptable, cost‐effective, and versatile technique for producing nanofibers. For effective and efficient use of the technique,several processing parameters need to be optimized for fabricating polymeric nanofibers. The nanofiber morphology, size, porosity, surface area, and topography can be refined by varying these parameters. Such flexibility and diversity in nanofiber fabrication by electrospinning has broadened the horizons for widespread application of nanofibers in the areas of drug and gene delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. Drug‐loaded electrospun nanofibers have been used in implants, transdermal systems, wound dressings, and as devices for aiding the prevention of postsurgical abdominal adhesions and infection. They show great promise for use in drug delivery provided that one can confidently control the processing variables during fabrication. This paper provides a concise incursion into the application of electrospun nanofibers in drug delivery and cites pertinent processing parameters that may influence the performance of the nanofibers when applied to drug delivery.
Comparative Cytochrome P450In VitroInhibition by Atypical Antipsychotic Drugs
Authors: Gervasini Guillermo , Caballero Maria J. , Carrillo Juan A. , Benitez Julio
Published: February 2013

The goal of this study was to assess in human liver microsomes the inhibitory capacity of commonly used antipsychotics on the most prominent CYP450 drug metabolizing enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP3A). Chlorpromazine was the only antipsychotic that inhibited CYP1A2 activity (IC50=9.5 μM), whilst levomepromazine, chlorpromazine, and thioridazine significantly decreased CYP2D6-mediated formation of1′-hydroxybufuralol (IC50range, 3.5–25.5 μM). Olanzapine inhibited CYP3A-catalyzed production of1′, and4′-hydroxymidazolam (IC50=14.65and 42.20 μM, resp.). In contrast, risperidone (IC50=20.7 μM) and levomepromazine (IC50=30 μM) showed selectivity towards the inhibition of midazolam1′-hydroxylation reaction, and haloperidol did so towards4′-hydroxylation (IC50of 2.76 μM). Thioridazine displayed aKiof 1.75 μM and an inhibitory potency of 1.57 on CYP2D6, suggesting a potential to inducein vivointeractions. However, with this exception, and given the observedKivalues, the potential of the assayed antipsychotics to produce clinically significant inhibitions of CYP450 isoformsin vivoseems limited.
Dasatinib plus Capecitabine for Advanced Breast Cancer: Safety and Efficacy in Phase I Study CA180004
Authors: Somlo George , Atzori Francesco , Strauss Lewis C. , Geese William J. , Specht Jennifer M. , Gradishar William J. , Rybicki Alissa , Sy Oumar , Vahdat Linda T. , Cortes Javier
Published: February 2013

Purpose: Dasatinib is an Src family kinase inhibitor with modest activity in advanced breast cancer. We aimed to assess toxicity and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for dasatinib plus capecitabine, estimate efficacy, and explore effects on angiogenesis.

Experimental Design: Dose levels (DL) were dasatinib 50 mg twice daily (DL1), 70 mg twice daily (DL2 and DL3), or 100 mg daily (DL3a); plus capecitabine on days 1 to 14 of a 21-day cycle, at 825 mg/m2 twice daily (DL1 and DL2) or 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily [DL3 and DL3a (MTD)]. DL3a was expanded to evaluate safety/efficacy. Plasma samples were collected for biomarker analysis.

Results: Thirty-one and 21 patients were treated in the escalation and expansion phases. Sixty percent of tumors were hormone receptor–positive. Most common adverse events (AE) were any grade nausea (58%), hand–foot syndrome (44%), diarrhea (33%), fatigue (33%), vomiting (31%), and asthenia (31%). Most common grade 3/4 AEs were hand–foot syndrome (12%), diarrhea (8%), fatigue (8%), pleural effusion (8%), and vomiting (6%). The MTD was defined at DL3a (capecitabine 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily and dasatinib 100 mg daily). Of 25 response-evaluable patients treated at DL3a, confirmed partial response was noted in 24% and stable disease in an additional 32%; median progression-free survival was 14.4 weeks. Significant decreases in plasma VEGF-A and increases in VEGFR-2 and collagen-IV were observed.

Conclusions: Dasatinib 100 mg once daily plus capecitabine 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily were tolerable and were associated with clinical benefit in 56% of response-evaluable patients. Biomarker changes were consistent with an antiangiogenic effect. Clin Cancer Res; 19(7); 1884–93. ©2013 AACR.
First-in-Human Phase I Trial of Two Schedules of OSI-930, a Novel Multikinase Inhibitor, Incorporating Translational Proof-of-Mechanism Studies
Authors: Yap Timothy A. , Arkenau Hendrik-Tobias , Camidge D. Ross , George Suzanne , Serkova Natalie J. , Gwyther Stephen J. , Spratlin Jennifer L. , Lal Rohit , Spicer James , Desouza Nandita M. , Leach Martin O. , Chick Jon , Poondru Srinivasu , Boinpally Ramesh , Gedrich Richard , Brock Katie , Stephens Andrew , Eckhardt S. Gail , Kaye Stan B. , Demetri George , Scurr Michelle
Published: February 2013

Purpose: OSI-930 is a novel, potent, oral small-molecule receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, predominantly against VEGF receptors (VEGFR), c-Kit, and platelet-derived growth factor receptors. A phase I trial was undertaken to determine safety, maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and antitumor activity of OSI-930 in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Experimental Design: OSI-930 was administered once or twice a day using a modified accelerated titration design. Pharmacokinetics and plasma soluble VEGFR2 (sVEGFR2) studies were undertaken. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) and 2[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) MTD expansion cohorts were conducted.

Results: Fifty-eight patients received OSI-930 in 2 schedules; once a day schedule: 12 patients at doses up to 1,600 mg without reaching MTD; twice a day schedule: 46 patients at 400 mg (n = 7), 500 mg (n = 31), and 600 mg (n = 8). Dose-limiting toxicities were observed at 600 mg twice a day (n = 3): G3 rash (n = 2) and G4 γ-glutamyltransferase, establishing the MTD at 500 mg twice a day. Common G1–2 toxicities included fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, and rash. Antitumor responses were seen in 2 patients with advanced ovarian cancer [Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) partial response (PR) (n = 1); GCIG CA125 response (n = 1)]. Eleven of 19 heavily pretreated imatinib-resistant patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors achieved RECIST stable disease (median duration: 126 days), with FDG-PET scans showing PRs in 4 of 9 patients. OSI-930 exposure increased with dose; substantial decreases in sVEGFR levels were observed with OSI-930 twice a day doses ≥400 mg, while DCE-MRI responses were shown in 4 of 6 patients.

Conclusions: OSI-930 is safe and well tolerated, with pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic data supporting proof-of-mechanism with clinically relevant antitumor activity. Clin Cancer Res; 19(4); 909–19. ©2012 AACR.
The Novel SMAC Mimetic Birinapant Exhibits Potent Activity against Human Melanoma Cells
Authors: Krepler Clemens , Chunduru Srinivas K. , Halloran Molly B. , He Xu , Xiao Min , Vultur Adina , Villanueva Jessie , Mitsuuchi Yasuhiro , Neiman Eric M. , Benetatos Christopher , Nathanson Katherine L. , Amaravadi Ravi K. , Pehamberger Hubert , McKinlay Mark , Herlyn Meenhard
Published: February 2013

Purpose: Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) promote cancer cell survival and confer resistance to therapy. We report on the ability of second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases mimetic, birinapant, which acts as antagonist to cIAP1 and cIAP2, to restore the sensitivity to apoptotic stimuli such as TNF-α in melanomas.

Experimental Design: Seventeen melanoma cell lines, representing five major genetic subgroups of cutaneous melanoma, were treated with birinapant as a single agent or in combination with TNF-α. Effects on cell viability, target inhibition, and initiation of apoptosis were assessed and findings were validated in 2-dimensional (2D), 3D spheroid, and in vivo xenograft models.

Results: When birinapant was combined with TNF-α, strong combination activity, that is, neither compound was effective individually but the combination was highly effective, was observed in 12 of 18 cell lines. This response was conserved in spheroid models, whereas in vivo birinapant inhibited tumor growth without adding TNF-α in in vitro resistant cell lines. Birinapant combined with TNF-α inhibited the growth of a melanoma cell line with acquired resistance to BRAF inhibition to the same extent as in the parental cell line.

Conclusions: Birinapant in combination with TNF-α exhibits a strong antimelanoma effect in vitro. Birinapant as a single agent shows in vivo antitumor activity, even if cells are resistant to single agent therapy in vitro. Birinapant in combination with TNF-α is effective in a melanoma cell line with acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 19(7); 1784–94. ©2013 AACR.
Power in Numbers: Meta-analysis to Identify Inhibitor-Sensitive Tumor Genotypes
Authors: Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: February 2013

Widespread tumor genotyping has increased the complexity of lung cancer care, often identifying mutations of uncertain clinical significance. In the accompanying article, the authors carried out a meta-analysis of the published literature on EGF receptor (EGFR) genotype and erlotinib/gefitinib sensitivity to develop a publicly accessible database to inform patient care. Clin Cancer Res; 19(7); 1634–6. ©2013 AACR.
Modeling Self-Agency among People with Schizophrenia: Empirical Evidence for Consumer-Based Recovery
Authors: Chiu Marcus Yu-Lung , Davidson Larry , Lo William Tak-Lam , Yiu Michael Gar-Chung , Ho Winnie Wing-Nan
Published: February 2013

Background: Self-agency - the awareness of one's own capacity to make decisions and to engage in deliberate action - is often interfered with or lost during the course of severe mental illness. Most existing literature on self-agency is either of experimental or qualitative nature, and empirical evidence is scanty. Sampling and Methods: This paper draws on a subset of empirical data from a larger recovery study that involved 204 people with schizophrenia in the community. Structural equation models are built to contrast the models with and without the contribution of self-agency. Results: The self-agency factor loads significantly on variables from five major areas of recovery (hope, empowerment, resilience, self-responsibility and self-mastery). Structural equation models show that the incorporation of this self-agency construct has vastly improved the modeling of the adverse effect of stigma on the quality of life of these subjects. The model with self-agency fitted the criteria better, and explained more total variance (increased from 56 to 80%) for the quality of life of these subjects. Conclusions: Cross-sectional empirical findings appear to support the claim that self-agency is an important construct that cuts through many dimensions of recovery. Initial discussions are made on the nature and function of self-agency, and its relations with recovery concepts and components.
Comparison of Transrectal Prostate Biopsy Results with Histology of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate in Men Undergoing High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
Authors: Rogenhofer S. , Walter B. , Hartmann A. , Wieland W.F. , Mueller S.C. , Blana A.
Published: February 2013

Introduction: The aim of our study was to evaluate the significance of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) to detect prostate cancer (PCa). A comparison was performed of the TURP specimens of patients undergoing high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) with the core biopsies. Materials and Methods: TURP before undergoing HIFU therapy was performed in 106 patients without neoadjuvant treatment. The resected tissue was subjected to histopathological evaluation and compared to the histological results of transrectal prostate biopsy. Results: Cancer was detected in the resected tissue of 69 patients (65%). A positive correlation of the amount of resected tissue and detection of PCa could be demonstrated in a multivariate analysis. Conclusions: With a rate of 65% PCa detected by TURP, our data provide evidence that TURP might be suitable to detect PCa in a small group of selected patients with continuously rising PSA levels and several negative biopsies. On the other hand, these data underline/reinforce the necessity to treat the whole gland using modern treatment modalities such as HIFU and cryotherapy.
Effects of Plum Extract on Skeletal System of Fetal and Newborn Mice
Authors: Monsefi Malihezaman , Parvin Fatemeh , Farzaneh Maryam
Published: February 2013

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Prunus domestica L. extracts on fetuses and neonatal skeletal systems. Materials and Methods: A total of 32 pregnant mice (Mus musculus) received vehicle and plum hydroalcoholic extract at gestational days 1-18 and during the entire gestational period as well as 10 days postpartum, respectively. A total of 30 nonpregnant mice were fed plum hydroalcoholic extract and plum juice extract for 30 days. Bone calcium content and serum concentrations of calcium, magnesium and alkaline phosphatase were measured. The skeletal systems of their fetuses and neonates were stained with Alcian blue and alizarin red S and the length of femur, tibia, and their ossification center were measured. Results: Crown-rump length of the newborn mice from mothers treated with plum extract (4.61 ± 0.25 mm) was higher compared to the control group (4.48 ± 0.31 mm, p = 0.001), and the femur osteogenesis index of newborn mice from mothers treated with plum extract was also higher (0.87 ± 0.09) compared to the control group (0.81 ± 0.06, p = 0.007). Conclusion: The findings showed that pregnant mice treated with plum extract had fetuses and newborn mice with higher osteogenesis index than those of the controls.
Nipple Discharge: Role of Ductoscopy in Comparison with Standard Diagnostic Tests
Authors: Albrecht Christine , Thele Franziska , Grunwald Susanne , Kohlmann Thomas , Hegenscheid Katrin , Utpatel Kirsten , Zygmunt Marek , Ohlinger Ralf
Published: February 2013

Background: This study aims to assess the role of ductoscopy for detecting intraductal anomalies in patients with nipple discharge in comparison to conventional tests and to find an effective combination of both approaches. Materials and Methods: Prior to duct excision, ductoscopy was performed in 97 women. Histologic and all other diagnostic results were compared. Sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency were calculated for all methods. These parameters were also calculated for all possible test combinations in 12 patients who had completed all tests. Results: Breast sonography reached the highest sensitivity (64.1%) and efficiency (64%); mammography had the highest specificity (100%). The sensitivity of ductoscopy was 53.2%, its specificity 60%, and its efficiency 55.1%. Among combinations of all methods, the combination ductoscopy + galactography was the most sensitive (80%). Mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, and ductoscopy were each 100% specific. Ductoscopy was the most efficient (75%) single method. Conclusion: Ductoscopy is a valuable test for diagnosing intraductal lesions in patients with nipple discharge. It is more efficient than conventional tests in patients undergoing all tests.
Quality of Life and Symptom Evaluation in Daily Oncology Practice: A Survey of 150 Patients with Advanced Gastrointestinal Tumours Receiving Palliative Chemotherapy
Authors: Schultheis Katharina , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Gencer Deniz , Blunk James A. , Benrath Justus
Published: February 2013

Background: Quality of life (QoL) is frequently investigated as a secondary endpoint in clinical trials but is rarely evaluated in clinical practice. The present survey sought to assess the QoL of patients with advanced gastrointestinal tumours receiving palliative chemotherapy. Furthermore, we wanted to compare the results of subscales of the generic EORTC QLQ-C30 (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Quality of Life Questionnaire, version 3.0) using assessment tools with an emphasis on pain and depression. Patients and Methods: 150 patients with gastrointestinal tumours undergoing palliative chemotherapy completed 3 questionnaires. QoL was assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30, Beck depression inventory (BDI) was utilised to measure the severity of patients’ depression and a visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to measure patient’s pain intensity. Correlations between these assessments were calculated. Results: The survey revealed that treatment of pain and depression appeared to be inadequate in the present cohort of patients with metastatic gastrointestinal cancer. Good correlations between EORTC QLQ-C30 subscales and the VAS (r = 0.86), as well as the BDI (r = 0.63) were found. Conclusion: The present analysis indicates the need for better symptom control regarding the examples ‘pain’ and ‘depression’. In view of the good correlation between the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the BDI and VAS, further studies on the implementation of the EORTC QLQ-C30 as a screening tool, or for follow-up measurements in daily practice are warranted.
Acute Stroke Secondary to Carotid Artery Dissection in a Patient with Germ Cell Tumour: Did Cisplatin Play a Role?
Authors: Khadjooi Kayvan , Adab Naghme , Kenton Anthony
Published: February 2013

Background: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy – mainly the bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin (BEP) regimen – has significantly improved the prognosis of testicular germ cell tumours (GCT). However, it has serious vascular side effects, including acute ischemic stroke. Case Report: A 37-year-old man with no conventional cerebrovascular risk factors presented with right arm clumsiness followed by a transient episode of expressive dysphasia 3 h later. He was receiving the third cycle of BEP for metastatic retroperitoneal GCT. Brain computed tomography (CT) and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed multiple acute infarctions in the left middle cerebral artery territory. MR angiography and CT angiography showed a dissection with flaps extending into the left internal and external carotid arteries. The patient was anticoagulated and made an almost complete recovery. Conclusion: Carotid artery dissection has not been reported as the cause of cisplatin-associated stroke in patients with GCT. This case demonstrates the potential for cisplatin-induced mechanisms causing carotid dissection, particularly considering the close temporal association of BEP and the event in our patient. In young patients with excellent curative potential from GCT, every effort should be made to minimise the risk of disabling side effects of BEP. After a stroke, imaging of intracranial and extracranial arteries, monitoring and correction of serum magnesium is recommended. The decision to continue or discontinue cisplatin-based chemotherapy should be individualised.
Fatal Cisplatin Overdose in the Treatment of Mediastinal Lymphoma with the ESHAP Regimen – Analysis of the Causes of the Adverse Drug Event
Authors: Jurek Tomasz , Rorat Marta , Dys Piotr , Swiatek Barbara
Published: February 2013

Background: Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent that may cause acute (or chronic) organ toxicity. As there is no antidote, prevention of adverse drug events is essential for patients’ safety. Case Report: The authors present the case of a 33-year-old woman treated for lymphoma with the ESHAP regimen, who died of an overdose of cisplatin. The drug was administered at a rate 4 times greater than the recommended maximum dose. The first symptom of overdose – partial hearing loss – appeared after administration of the last dose of the drug on day 4 of the chemotherapy course. The initiation of intensive treatment with plasmapheresis and dialyses was ineffective. The patient died 18 days after receiving the last dose of cisplatin. The medication schedule had been prepared by an inexperienced physician. The information on cisplatin dosage had been sourced from a vague instruction in a clinical oncology manual: ‘100 mg/m2 continuous i.v. infusion d.1–4’. The instruction was misinterpreted. The patient was given 100 mg/m2 on each of the 4 days of the treatment. Conclusion: Special care must be taken when preparing a medication schedule; the treatment must be checked by an experienced physician and verified by the nursing staff. The patient should be monitored for symptoms of cisplatin intoxication.
Computed Tomography Workup of Patients Suspected of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhu Guangming , Michel Patrik , Aghaebrahim Amin , Patrie James T. , Xin Wenjun , Eskandari Ashraf , Zhang Weiwei , Wintermark Max
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose—

To determine whether perfusion computed tomography (PCT) adds value to noncontrast head CT (NCT), CT angiogram (CTA), and clinical assessment in patients suspected of acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

We retrospectively reviewed 165 patients with acute ischemic stroke. PCT was used to calculate the volumes of infarct core and ischemic penumbra on admission. Other imaging data included Alberta Score Program Early CT Score, site of occlusion, and collateral flow. Clinical data included age, time, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at baseline, treatment type, and modified Rankin score (mRS) at 90 days. Recanalization status was assessed on follow-up imaging. In a first multivariate regression analysis, we assessed whether volumes of PCT penumbra and infarct core could be predicted from clinical variables, NCT, or CTA, or whether they represented independent information. In a second multivariate regression analysis, we used mRS at 90 days as outcome and determined which variables predicted it best.

Results—

Of 165 patients identified, 76 had a mRS score of 0 to 2 at 90 days, 89 had a mRS score >2. PCT infarct could be predicted by clinical data, NCT, CTA, and combinations of this data (
P
<0.05). PCT penumbra could not be predicted by clinical data, NCT, and CTA. All of the variables but NCT and CTA were significantly associated with 90-day mRS outcome. The single most important predictor was recanalization status (
P
<0.001). PCT penumbra volume (
P
=0.001) was also a predictor of clinical outcome, especially when considered in conjunction with recanalization through an interaction term (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

PCT penumbra represents independent information, which cannot be predicted by clinical, NCT, and CTA data. PCT penumbra is an important determinant of clinical outcome and adds relevant clinical information compared with a stroke CT workup, including NCT and CTA.
The Commentary on Luke Attributed to Eusebius of Caesarea
Authors: Whealey A.
Published: February 2013

Abstract

The authenticity of a catena on the gospel of Luke (PG 24,529-605), which was attributed to Eusebius of Caesarea by Nicetas of Heraclea, is dubious. One short fragment appears to derive from Procopius of Gaza’s Commentary on the Octateuch, raising a question about the catena’s overall integrity as well as its authenticity. Some of the vocabulary and themes in the longer fragments are more characteristic of Eusebius of Emesa than of Eusebius of Caesarea. Thus the bulk of these fragments were probably written by Eusebius of Emesa, but wrongly attributed to Eusebius of Caesarea because of name confusion in the catenae lemmata.
A new species of the Scinax catharinae group (Anura, Hylidae) from Serra da Canastra, southwestern state of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: LOURENÇO ANA CAROLINA CALIJORNE , DE CARVALHO ANDRÉ LUIZ GOMES , BAÊTA DÉLIO , PEZZUTI TIAGO LEITE , LEITE FELIPE SÁ FORTES
Published: February 2013

We describe Scinax pombali sp. n. a new species of treefrog of the Scinax catharinae group from Serra da Canastra, mu-nicipality of Capitólio (20o36’03’’S, 46o17’34.9’’W, 987 m a.s.l.), located in the Cerrado domains of the State of Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. The new species is characterized by its small size, blotches and color pattern on dorsal surface and hidden regions of flanks and thighs, canthus rostralis lightly concave and well marked, absent nuptial pad, and lack of externally differentiated inguinal gland. Additionally, we describe the tadpole of this new species, which is character-ized by the large-sized oral disc and presence of a large number of marginal papillae (two to three rows on its dorsal portion and some rows in unorganized arrangement on its lateroventral portion).
A new species of Neorhaphiomidas Norris (Diptera: Mydidae) from Queensland, Australia
Authors: DANIELS GREG
Published: February 2013

Neorhaphiomidas Norris, with 7 species, is an endemic genus and the only Australian representative of the mydid subfamily Megascelinae. The genus was for many years considered to be restricted to Western Australia but the range of the genus was extended to the eastern part of South Australia with Paramonov's (1961) description of N. inermis. The new species described here, the first record of the genus from Queensland, extends the known distribution of the genus some 1500 km to the north-east.
Development of a China Dataset of Soil Hydraulic Parameters Using Pedotransfer Functions for Land Surface Modeling
Authors: Dai Yongjiu , Shangguan Wei , Duan Qingyun , Liu Baoyuan , Fu Suhua , Niu Guoyue
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study is to develop a dataset of the soil hydraulic parameters associated with two empirical soil functions (i.e., a water retention curve and hydraulic conductivity) using multiple pedotransfer functions (PTFs). The dataset is designed specifically for regional land surface modeling for China. The authors selected 5 PTFs to derive the parameters in the Clapp and Hornberger functions and the van Genuchten and Mualem functions and 10 PTFs for soil water contents at capillary pressures of 33 and 1500 kPa. The inputs into the PTFs include soil particle size distribution, bulk density, and soil organic matter. The dataset provides 12 estimated parameters and their associated statistical values. The dataset is available at a 30 × 30 arc second geographical spatial resolution and with seven vertical layers to the depth of 1.38 m. The dataset has several distinct advantages even though the accuracy is unknown for lack of in situ and regional measurements. First, this dataset utilizes the best available soil characteristics dataset for China. The Chinese soil characteristics dataset was derived by using the 1:1 000 000 Soil Map of China and 8595 representative soil profiles. Second, this dataset represents the first attempt to estimate soil hydraulic parameters using PTFs directly for continental China at a high spatial resolution. Therefore, this dataset should capture spatial heterogeneity better than existing estimates based on lookup tables according to soil texture classes. Third, the authors derived soil hydraulic parameters using multiple PTFs to allow flexibility for data users to use the soil hydraulic parameters most preferable to or suitable for their applications.
The optimization problem based on alternatives aggregation Petri nets as models for industrial discrete event systems
Authors: Latorre Juan Ignacio , Jiménez Emilio , Pérez Mercedes
Published: February 2013

The construction, set-up and operation of many systems of interest in sectors such as industry, supply chains and communications are complex processes, which may require significant investment of resources. For this reason, the automation of the decision making for achieving the best design and operation of such systems, which may be regarded as discrete event systems (DESs), constitutes an active research field. In this paper, we present a methodology to cope with this process in an efficient way, optimizing not only the behaviour of the DES but also its structure. This kind of problem is usually associated with the so-called combinatorial explosion, since the number of alternative configurations for the DES might be huge. We present an improved algorithm to transform a set of alternative Petri nets, representing alternative structural configurations, into a more compact model called an alternatives aggregation Petri net. In real decision-making problems, where the different alternative structural configurations may share common subnets, this compact model may allow the development of a much more efficient optimization problem than the classic approach of ‘divide and conquer’. The achievement of this objective is performed by developing a single and compact model for all of the alternative structural configurations of the DES and the simulation of the most promising of them. In this paper, the mentioned methodology is introduced and its advantages and drawbacks are described in relation with the classic approach.
“Do We Believe in TripAdvisor?” Examining Credibility Perceptions and Online Travelers’ Attitude toward Using User-Generated Content
Authors: Ayeh Julian K. , Au Norman , Law Rob
Published: February 2013

Recent press reports and complaints by hoteliers have called into question the credibility of travel-related user-generated content (UGC). Yet our understanding of the role of credibility perceptions in the context of UGC is limited, notwithstanding the rising interest in social media. Using an online survey of 661 travel consumers, this study applies the component-based structural equation modeling technique of partial least squares to examine online travelers’ perceptions of the credibility of UGC sources and how these perceptions influence attitudes and intentions toward UGC utilization in the travel planning process. The model also draws on the theory of homophily to make predictions about the antecedent of credibility. Results validate the Source Credibility Theory in the context of UGC but also accentuate the central mediating role of attitude. In addition, the study finds support for perceptual homophily as a critical determinant of both credibility and attitude. Theoretical and managerial implications are highlighted.
Gaming in the Classroom
Authors: Stansbury Jessica A. , Munro Geoffrey D.
Published: February 2013

This study tested the effectiveness of video game use for instruction of factorial designs in a research methods course. Students designed and conducted a mini study, playing Dance, Dance, Revolution, using video game scores as the dependent variable. A mixed-design analysis of variance revealed a significantly greater increase from pretest to posttest in content knowledge in the Wii activity condition compared to lecture-only and no-content control conditions. Implementing this nontraditional teaching method engaged students and increased knowledge of factorial designs in a research method course.
Effect of a plantar perceptual learning task on walking stability in the elderly: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nakano Hideki , Nozaki Makoto , Ueta Kozo , Osumi Michihiro , Kawami Seigou , Morioka Shu
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To determine whether the plantar perceptual learning task, using a hardness discrimination training, efficiently improves walking stability in the elderly.

Design:

A randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Elder day-care center.

Participants:

Eighty-six elderly people (73.84 SD 5.98 years) who went to an elder day-care center were randomly assigned evenly to either an intervention or a control group.

Intervention:

The intervention group performed a task to discriminate hardness differences while standing on sponge mats of different levels of hardness. The control group underwent the same task except that they were not instructed to discriminate hardness levels of the mats. The tasks were carried out over a four-week period for 10 days for both groups.

Outcome measures:

Outcome was assessed by determining root mean squares of trunk acceleration during walking.

Results:

Plantar perception was significantly improved in the intervention group after training ( F = 26.24, p < 0.01). In addition, changes in root mean square values of acceleration were significantly greater after training in the intervention group (medial–lateral, 0.36 SD 0.26; vertical, 0.32 SD 0.24; anterio–posterior, 0.26 SD 0.24) than in the control group (medial–lateral, 0.14 SD 0.28, vertical, 0.16 SD 0.35, anterio–posterior, 0.12 SD 0.29) ( p < 0.05). Changes in walking speed were not significantly different ( p = 0.13) between the intervention (0.06 SD 0.13) and control groups (0.02 SD 0.14).

Conclusion:

The plantar perceptual learning task might efficiently stabilize postural control during walking in the elderly.