bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conserved Steroid Hormone Homology Converges on Nuclear Factor κB to Modulate Inflammation in Asthma
Authors: Payne Asha S. , Freishtat Robert J.
Published: May 2016

Asthma is a complex, multifactorial disease comprising multiple different subtypes, rather than a single disease entity, yet it has a consistent clinical phenotype: recurring episodes of chest tightness, wheezing, and difficulty breathing ( Pediatr Pulmonol Suppl. 1997;15:9–12). Despite the complex pathogenesis of asthma, steroid hormones (eg, glucocorticoids) are ubiquitous in the short-term and long-term management of all types of asthma. Overall, steroid hormones are a class of widely relevant, biologically active compounds originating from cholesterol and altered in a stepwise fashion, but maintain a basic 17-carbon, 4-ring structure. Steroids are lipophilic molecules that diffuse readily through cell membranes to directly and/or indirectly affect gene transcription. In addition, they use rapid, nongenomic actions to affect cellular products. Steroid hormones comprise several groups (including glucocorticoids, sex steroid hormones, and secosteroids) with critical divergent biological and physiological functions relevant to health and disease. However, the conserved homology of steroid hormone molecules, receptors, and signaling pathways suggests that each of these is part of a dynamic system of hormone interaction, likely involving an overlap of downstream signaling mechanisms. Therefore, we will review the similarities and differences of these 3 groups of steroid hormones (ie, glucocorticoids, sex steroid hormones, and secosteroids), identifying nuclear factor κB as a common inflammatory mediator. Despite our understanding of the impact of individual steroids (eg, glucocorticoids, sex steroids and secosteroids) on asthma, research has yet to explain the interplay of the dynamic system in which these hormones function. To do so, there needs to be a better understanding of the interplay of classic, nonclassic, and nongenomic steroid hormone functions. However, clues from the conserved homology steroid hormone structure and function and signaling pathways offer insight into a possible model of steroid hormone regulation of inflammation in asthma through common nuclear factor κB–mediated downstream events.
Synovial Fluid Omentin-1 Levels are Inversely Correlated with Radiographic Severity of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Xu Lin , Zhu Guang-bin , Wang Lei , Wang Dan-feng , Jiang Xiao-rui
Published: May 2016

Objective

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate omentin-1 levels in serum and synovial fluid (SF) of patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and to investigate their correlation with radiographic disease severity.

Methods

One hundred and ninety-seven patients with OA and 65 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The radiographic disease severity of OA was assessed by the Kellgren- Lawrence (KL) grading system. The omentin-1 levels in serum and SF were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

There were no significant differences in serum omentin-1 levels between patients with OA and healthy controls ( P > 0.05). There were also no significant differences in serum omentin-1 levels among patients with OA with different KL grades ( P > 0.05). However, SF omentin-1 levels decreased significantly as the KL grades increased (KL grade 4 < KL grade 3 < KL grade 2; all P < 0.01) in the patients with OA. Furthermore, SF omentin-1 levels were negatively correlated with KL grades ( r = −0.643; P < 0.001). Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that there was still a negative correlation between the SF omentin-1 levels and the KL grades after adjusting for confounding factors ( P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Synovial fluid omentin-1 levels showed an independent and negative correlation with radiographic severity of the disease in patients with knee OA. Omentin-1 in SF might serve as a potential biomarker for reflecting the degenerative process of primary knee OA.
Differential Expression of PAI-RBP1, C1orf142, and COTL1 in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines with Different Tumor Metastatic Potential
Authors: Sun Wenjing , Guo Changlong , Meng Xiangning , Yu Yang , Jin Yan , Tong Dandan , Geng Jingshu , Huang Qi , Qi Jiping , Liu An , Guan Rongwei , Xu Lidan , Sun Donglin , Ji Wei , Liu Peng , Liu Fangli , Sun Haiming , Ji Guohua , Fu Songbin , Bai Jing
Published: May 2016

Human non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common malignancies in the modern world. Its recurrence is mainly due to its ability to invade and metastasize. However, the precise mechanism for tumor development and metastasis is still not fully understood. To shed light on the development of lung cancer, the human giant cell lung carcinoma cell lines 95D with high metastatic potential and 95C with low metastatic potential were selected in this study. The 2 cell lines originated from the same parental cell and share a similar genetic background. In the current study, we identified 3 differentially expressed proteins in 95C and 95D cell lines, namely, PAI-RBP1, C1orf142, and COTL1, by using 2-dimensional electrophoresis proteomics analysis. We found that PAI-RBP1 and C1orf142 expression levels were higher in 95D than in 95C cells, whereas COTL1 expression level was lower in 95D when compared to 95C cells. We also confirmed these results by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting analyses. The messenger RNA and protein levels of PAI-RBP1 and C1orf142 were much higher in 95D than in 95C cells, and COTL1 expression level was lower in 95D than in 95C cells. The PAI-RBP1 expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 70 NSCLC and 7 normal lung tissue samples from patients. PAI-RBP1 expression level was higher in tumor tissues (positive staining in 87.1% of cases [61/70]) than in normal tissues (positive staining in 14.3% of cases [1/7]). In conclusion, by studying protein expression in NSCLC cell lines with high and low metastasis as well as in human lung cancer tissues, we have identified 3 proteins, namely, PAI-RBP1, C1orf142, and COTL1, which were differentially expressed in NSCLC cell lines with different metastatic potential. In addition, we also found that PAI-RBP1 might contribute to NSCLC development.
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Review of Immunologic Aspects
Authors: Wachsmann Megan B. , Pop Laurentiu M. , Vitetta Ellen S.
Published: May 2016

With the continued failures of both early diagnosis and treatment options for pancreatic cancer, it is now time to comprehensively evaluate the role of the immune system on the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. It is important to develop strategies that harness the molecules and cells of the immune system to treat this disease. This review will focus primarily on the role of immune cells in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and to evaluate what is known about the interaction of immune cells with the tumor microenvironment and their role in tumor growth and metastasis. We will conclude with a brief discussion of therapy for pancreatic cancer and the potential role for immunotherapy. We hypothesize that the role of the immune system in tumor development and progression is tissue specific. Our hope is that better understanding of this process will lead to better treatments for this devastating disease.
Basal Glucagonlike Peptide 1 Levels and Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Patients
Authors: de Luis Daniel A. , Aller Rocio , Conde Rosa , Primo David , Izaola Olatz , Castro Maria Jose , Gonzalez Sagrado Manuel
Published: May 2016

Objective

Glucagonlike peptide 1 (GLP-1) is the most potent stimulator of glucose-induced insulin secretion. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationships of basal circulating GLP-1 and metabolic syndrome in obese patients without cardiovascular disease.

Materials and Methods

A sample of 202 obese patients was enrolled. Dietary intake, weight, bioimpedance, blood pressure, fasting glucose, insulin, C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood triglycerides, and GLP-1 levels were measured in all patients. To estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, the definitions of the Adult Treatment Panel III was considered.

Results

Patients were divided at the median of GLP-1 value (8.02 ng/dL): group 1 (n = 101) and group 2 (n = 101). Metabolic syndrome (MS) prevalence was higher in patients with the lowest median group of GLP-1 (52.5% vs 38.6%; P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed a significant correlation among serum GLP-1 levels and the independent variables; waist-to-hip ratio ( r = −0.15; P < 0.05), glucose ( r = −0.15; P < 0.05), total cholesterol ( r = −0.22; P < 0.05), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( r = −0.27; P < 0.05). In the logistic analysis with MS presence/absence as an independent variable, only weight and GLP-1 levels remained in the model. Weight shows an odds ratio of 1.10 (95% confidence interval, 1.06–1.13) by each increase of 1 kg of weight, and GLP-1 levels shows an odds ratio of 0.89 (95% confidence interval, 0.80–0.99) by each increase of 1 ng/dL of GLP-1 levels.

Conclusions

Obese patients with MS had lower mean GLP-1 levels than those without MS. Glucagonlike peptide 1 levels remained as a preventive factor to develop MS.
Effect of Short-Term Infusive Dobutamine Therapy on Thyroid Hormone Profile and Hemodynamic Parameters in Patients with Acute Worsening Heart Failure and Low-Triiodothyronine Syndrome
Authors: D'Aloia Antonio , Vizzardi Enrico , Bugatti Silvia , Rovetta Riccardo , Bonadei Ivano , Del Magro Francesca , Curnis Antonio , Dei Cas Livio
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Low-triiodothyronine syndrome (LT3S) is a condition characterized by decreased total serum T3 and free T3 (fT3) with normal levels of thyroxine (fT4) and thyrotropin (TSH). Experimental studies have shown that altered thyroid hormones (THs) metabolism modifies cardiovascular homeostasis. The aim of the study was to evaluate prospectively the reversibility and pathophysiological implications of sick euthyroid syndrome in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic heart failure. This study should demonstrate the role of short-term acute dobutamine heart failure (HF) treatment in improving thyroid hormone, neuroendocrine profile, and ventricular performance in patients with worsening HF and LT3S.

Methods

During hospitalization for worsening heart failure, fT3, fT4, and TSH levels; brain natriuretic peptide; and echocardiographic and right hemodynamic parameters were recorded on admission, after HF treatment and after dobutamine infusion in patients with LT3S.

Results

We evaluated 60 patients hospitalized for severe acute decompensated HF. Fourteen patients (23%) of the population presented an LT3S. Dobutamine infusion in LT3S patient group evoked a statistically significant cardiac index increase, pulmonary capillary arterial wedge pressure, and right atrial pressure decrease with left ventricle diastolic dysfunction recovery; the hemodynamic and clinical improvement were associated with brain natriuretic peptide reduction and increased fT3 levels. Free T3 levels increased in all of them and normalized in 6 patients (42%). Free T4 and TSH values remained unchanged.

Conclusions

These data suggest that LT3S in patients with acute decompensated HF can be useful in assessing the status and clinical course for this disease. These preliminary results indicate that LT3S reversibility by dobutamine is associated with short-term hemodynamic and neurohormonal improvement in patients with persistent severe heart failure.
Views of Translational Research from a Somewhat Translational Scientist
Authors: Talman William T.
Published: May 2016

This review arose from a talk entitled “Identifying Targets” and given by the author at EB2011 at the invitation of the American Federation for Medical Research (AFMR). The presentation was part of the American Federation for Medical Research workshop entitled “Keys for Translation: Science and Strategy” and focused on identifying clinically relevant targets as a result of observations made during basic scientific studies. The review emphasizes that targets do not have to be the aim that drives basic discovery, but communication between the basic scientist and clinical investigators may aid recognition of such targets and their translation to clinical applications. Using one line of investigator-initiated research from his own laboratory as an example, the author emphasizes that basic discovery must be hypothesis driven and allowed to follow its logical sequence. Finding treatments, while always an aim of biomedical research, may arise as a result of basic studies that were not originally aimed at a target of translational research.
Influence of Renal Artery Variants, Number, Location, and Degree of Renal Artery Stenoses on the Atherosclerotic Burden of the Aorta
Authors: Petersen Johannes , Plaikner Michaela , Nasseri Parinaz , Rehder Peter , Koppelstätter Christian , Pauli Guido F. , Glodny Bernhard
Published: May 2016

Objective

To determine the assumed influence of the number of renal arteries, the distribution and extent of renal artery stenosis (RAS), and the kidney length on calcified aortic atherosclerotic plaque burden.

Methods

The computed tomographic angiographies of 1381 patients were analyzed retrospectively using a volumetric aortic calcium scoring method. The Spearman method was used to calculate the correlation between kidney length, number and diameter of renal arteries, as well as number, degree, and location of RASs on main or additional renal arteries with the extent of aortic atherosclerosis. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with the target variable “calcification present or absent.”

Results

Patients with multiple renal arteries (38.3%) had lower plaque volumes than patients without such variants (0.55 ± 0.97 vs 0.64 ± 1.06 mL; P < 0.05). Renal artery stenoses affected all renal vessels with equal frequency. The aortic calcium score correlated with the number of RASs ( P < 0.0001) and the maximum degree of RAS up to a threshold of 60%. Location of an RAS in the various renal arteries was irrelevant. In regression analyses, the presence of RAS (Wald = 5.523), the degree of RAS (Wald = 6.251), and age (Wald = 223.1) were positive predictors of the aortic calcium score, whereas kidney length (Wald = 9.564) proved to be a negative predictor.

Conclusion

The aortic calcium score correlates with both the number of RASs and the maximum degree of RAS up to a threshold of 60% but correlates inversely with the number of renal arteries. Renal artery stenosis affects all renal vessels with equal frequency, and this finding should be considered in screening procedures.
Serum Levels of Adipocyte Fatty Acid–Binding Protein are Independently Associated with Left Ventricular Mass and Myocardial Performance Index in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Balci Mustafa Mücahit , Arslan Uğur , Firat Hikmet , Kocaoğlu İbrahim , Vural Mustafa Gökhan , Balci Kevser Gülcihan , Maden Orhan , Gürbüz Oğuz Alp , Ardiç Sadık , Yeter Ekrem
Published: May 2016

Objective

To investigate the cross-sectional association between serum adipocyte fatty acid–binding protein (A-FABP) level and diagnosis or severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and some echocardiographic indices related with cardiac dysfunction.

Methods

In this study, plasma A-FABP and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations were measured, and echocardiography was performed in subjects without any cardiac or pulmonary disease who were referred for evaluation of OSAS. According to the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), subjects were classified into 3 groups: control group (AHI <5; n = 33), mild to moderate OSAS (30 > AHI ≥ 5; n = 30), and severe OSAS (AHI ≥ 30; n = 31).

Results

Levels of A-FABP were significantly different between the groups ( P < 0.001). After post hoc analyses, all 3 groups were also significantly different from each other. The levels of A-FABP were significantly higher in the patients with severe OSAS (36.4 ± 13.0 ng/mL) than in the control subjects (9.3 ± 4.6 ng/mL; P < 0.0001) or in patients with mild-moderate OSAS (24.5 ± 10.5 ng/mL; P < 0.001). Patients with myocardial performance index (MPI) greater than 0.47 had higher serum A-FABP levels than those with MPI of less than 0.47 (31.8 ± 13.2 ng/mL vs 10.9 ± 6.3 ng/mL; P = 0.001). Multivariable regression analyses revealed that increased serum A-FABP concentrations were independently associated with increased left ventricular mass index (β = 0.195; P = 0.033) and increased MPI (β = 0.165; P = 0.015).

Conclusions

Increased A-FABP levels were found in the patients with OSAS, which were correlated significantly with left ventricular mass index and MPI. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify whether increased serum A-FABP level is a marker or a potential mechanism for left ventricular involvement in patients with OSAS.
Mutation Screening of the APOA5 Gene in Subjects with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Soufi Muhidien , Sattler Alexander M. , Kurt Bilgen , Schaefer Juergen R.
Published: May 2016

Objective

Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Apolipoprotein A5 ( APOA5) is a member of the apolipoprotein APOA1/C3/A4/A5 gene cluster and a major determinant of plasma triglyceride levels in the population. Various studies have identified a number of common ( APOA5 c.56C>G; p.S19W; rs 3135506) and rare variants in the APOA5 gene in individuals with hypertriglyceridemia. However, little is known on the impact of rare APOA5 mutations for the risk of coronary artery disease; therefore, we screened the APOA5 gene in subjects with CAD.

Methods

The coding region of the APOA5 gene was screened in 501 subjects (334 with CAD and 167 CAD-free) undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis.

Results

APOA5 p.S19W variant c.56 C>G was found in a total of 61 subjects, five of them homozygous. Beside this well-known mutation, the denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis screening identified only one subject with a synonymous APOA5 mutation, c.70C>A; p.R24R. APOA5 p.S19W was more frequent in patients with CAD (CAD, 14.4%; no CAD, 7.8%; P = 0.021); and in addition, all homozygous subjects (n = 5) for APOA5 p.S19W had CAD. Furthermore, carriers of the p.19W allele had significantly higher triglyceride levels (240 ± 149 vs 185 ± 118 mg/dL; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

From these data, we conclude that (1) APOA5 p.S19W is a common variant, with very few additional APOA5 gene mutations; (2) APOA5 p.S19W plays a major role in triglyceride metabolism; and (3) APOA5 p.S19W is a CAD risk factor.
Evaluation of the ENPP1 and PLIN Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Type 2 Diabetes in a Taiwanese Population
Authors: Wang Chun-Hsiang , Ke Wan-Sheng , Lin Eugene
Published: May 2016

Background

Addressing gene-gene interactions is essential in defining a trait implicating complex disease-related mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to explore both main effects of single-locus and multi-locus interactions to test the hypothesis that the ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 ( ENPP1) and perilipin ( PLIN) genes may contribute to the etiology of type 2 diabetes (T2D) independently and/or through complex interactions in a Taiwanese population.

Methods

There were 416 patients with a diagnosis of T2D and 188 age- and sex-similar control subjects. To investigate gene-gene interactions, we used both the generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction method and logistic regression models.

Results

Allelic and genotypic analyses showed significant main effects of ENPP1 rs1044498 ( P = 0.000005 and 0.00007, respectively) on the risk of T2D after Bonferroni correction ( P < 0.05/2 = 0.025). Compared to the carrier of the AA genotype of the ENPP1 rs1044498 polymorphism, the likelihood of T2D was 2.442 (95% confidence interval, 1.592–3.747) for the carrier of combined AC+CC genotypes after adjustment of sex and body mass index. In addition, the carriers of AA variant in the PLIN rs894160 polymorphism had a higher risk to T2D than those with the combined AG+GG variants (adjusted odds ratio, 1.856; 95% confidence interval, 1.106–3.115) after adjustment of sex and body mass index. Furthermore, the significant 2-locus ( P = 0.001) generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction model was identified between ENPP1 and PLIN. Analyses using logistic regression models confirmed the gene-gene interaction.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the ENPP1 and PLIN genes may contribute to the risk of T2D independently and/or in an interactive manner in a Taiwanese population.
High-Protein Diets Alters Body Composition and Improves Insulin Resistance in a Rat Model of Low Birth Weight
Authors: Yu Mu-xue , Shen Zhen-yu , Qiu Xiao-shan , Mo Qing-ping
Published: May 2016

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effects of early high-protein supplementation on low birth weight (LBW)–associated adult metabolic disturbances.

Materials and Methods

This study involved 32 LBW rat pups that were fed a normal protein (20% of energy intake) diet or high-protein (30% of energy intake) diet on their first 4 weeks of life. Sixteen rat pups with normal birth weight (NBW) fed the normal-protein diet were included as control. Biochemical measurements were performed at 4 and 12 weeks of age.

Results

Low birth weight offspring showed significantly ( P < 0.05) increased fat mass percentage and adipocyte size and decreased lean mass percentage and muscle fiber size relative to NBW offspring. These LBW-related changes in body composition were corrected by high-protein diet intervention. At 12 weeks of age, the fasting insulin level (7.14 ± 0.83 vs 9.27 ± 0.67 mU/L) and homeostasis model of insulin resistance (1.71 ± 0.35 vs 2.30 ± 0.44) were significantly lower in high protein–fed LBW offspring than in normal protein–fed LBW offspring. Low birth weight rat pups showed a significant ( P < 0.05) reduction in serum adiponectin concentrations, glucose transporter 4 mRNA abundance, and phosphorylation levels of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) relative to NBW controls. These LBW-associated alterations in gene expression were reversed by early high-protein treatment.

Conclusions

Early postnatal high-protein intake alters the body composition and improves insulin resistance in adults with LBW, which is associated with activation of the AMPK and mTOR pathways.
A Novel Mass Spectrometry–Based Assay for the Accurate Measurement of Thyroglobulin from Patient Samples Containing Antithyroglobulin Autoantibodies
Authors: Clarke Nigel J. , Zhang Yanni , Reitz Richard E.
Published: May 2016

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine cancer in the United States. The primary treatment of thyroid cancer is partial or complete thyroidectomy in patients in whom the cancer is discovered preoperatively, and is often followed by radioactive iodine ablation. After the initial therapy, patients are followed up regularly, most commonly by measurement of serum thyroglobulin (Tg) levels and high-resolution neck ultrasound. As Tg is only produced within the thyroid gland, it has long been recognized as an excellent biomarker for the presence of residual disease after treatment. A number of immunoassays are in common use to measure serum Tg levels. Unfortunately, irrespective of which method is chosen, there is a major potential artifact, in that the presence of autoantibodies binding to Tg (ATG) may bias the results to the point where they are clinically unreliable.

This article describes a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the measurement of serum Tg after tryptic digestion of serum samples. The method is compared to Tg analyses using both a Food and Drug Administration–approved immunometric assay (IMA) and a well-respected, clinically used radioimmunoassay. In the absence of ATG, the new LC-MS/MS assay demonstrates equivalency compared to the IMA. However, in ATG-positive patients, the IMA Tg results are lower than the LC-MS/MS assay and the radioimmunoassay Tg results are typically higher. These studies demonstrate the accuracy and validity of the measurement of Tg by LC-MS/MS. This assay will permit the accurate determination of Tg levels even in patients with ATG.
Coronary Slow Flow and Abnormal Nocturnal Blood Pressure Profile in Normotensives
Authors: Durmaz Tahir , Keles Telat , Erdogan Kemal Esref , Ayhan Huseyin , Bilen Emine , Akcay Murat , Bayram Nihal Akar , Bastug Serdal , Bozkurt Engin
Published: May 2016

Background

Abnormal nocturnal blood pressure (BP) profile has been linked to microvascular function and autonomic dysfunction. However, no data were available regarding nocturnal BP profile in coronary slow flow (CSF).

Aim

The aim was to investigate any association between CSF and abnormal BP response in normotensive patients.

Methods

Consecutive 45 patients with CSF and 45 patients with normal blood flow during coronary angiography underwent 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring. Hemodynamic parameters including 24-hour, daytime and nighttime systolic/diastolic/mean/pulse pressures, and BP % changes were obtained. Dippers, nondippers, and reverse dippers were determined.

Results

Baseline characteristics of both groups were well matched except for TIMI (Thrombosis in Myocardial Infarction) frame counts for all major epicardial coronary arteries. No statistical significance was detected regarding to hemodynamic parameters obtained by 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring. The prevalence of nondippers was higher in CSF patients compared with controls (51.1% vs 28.9%, respectively). In univariate analysis, systolic BP change (%), 24-hour diastolic BP, diastolic BP change (%), 24-hour mean BP, mean BP change (%), nondipper/reverse dipper, and separately nondipper status were found to be significant predictors for CSF. However, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, systolic BP change (%) (odds ratio [OR], 0.934; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.874–0.998; P = 0.045), nondipper/reverse dipper status (OR, 0.505; 95% CI, 0.265–0.962; P = 0.038), and separately nondipper status (OR, 0.317; 95% CI, 0.126–0.797; P = 0.015) were found to be significant predictors for CSF.

Conclusion

The frequency of nondippers was higher in slow flow, and there was a significant association between CSF and abnormal nocturnal BP profile in normotensives.
Peripheral-Arterial Tonometry for Assessing Endothelial Function in Relation to Dietary Habits
Authors: Cioni Gabriele , Boddi Maria , Fatini Cinzia , Romagnuolo Ilaria , Casini Alessandro , Gensini Gian Franco , Abbate Rosanna , Sofi Francesco
Published: May 2016

Background

Peripheral-arterial tonometry (PAT) provides, with good reproducibility, measures of nitric oxide–mediated endothelial response, which correlate with flow-mediated dilation (FMD) findings obtained by brachial artery ultrasound. Few data about the ability of exploring endothelial function by PAT in relation to dietary habits are available. The aim of this study was to evaluate natural logarithm of reactive hyperemia index (lnRHI) in subjects referred for primary prevention, in relation to classic risk factors, in particular to adherence to Mediterranean diet and red wine consumption.

Methods

The study population was composed of 95 consecutive clinically stable subjects in primary prevention for cardiovascular diseases. All subjects underwent medical questionnaire, clinical examination, and PAT for endothelial function evaluation.

Results

A significant inverse correlation between lnRHI values and body mass index ( r = −0.284; P = 0.022) was found. We described a gradual reduction in lnRHI values, corresponding to the increase in the number of risk factors (0.75 [0.31–1.26], 0.66 [0.25–0.97], 0.63 [0.37–1.19], 0.48 [0.32–0.71], 0.43 [0.31–0.91], respectively, for none, 1, 2, 3, and 4 cardiovascular risk factors; P = 0.004). A significant positive correlation between score of adherence to Mediterranean diet and lnRHI values was found ( r = 0.307; P = 0.002). Higher adherence to Mediterranean diet was found in subjects with lnRHI values greater than 0.40 in comparison to others (39 [27–50] vs 33 [28–45], respectively; P = 0.064). The lnRHI values were significantly higher in regular drinkers in comparison to nonregular drinkers (0.46 [0.25–0.83] vs 0.70 [0.32–1.26], respectively; P < 0.0001). Relationship between reactive hyperemia index and red wine consumption remained statistically significant even after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, smoking habit, hypertension, and adherence to Mediterranean diet.

Conclusions

Our findings strengthen the ability of PAT to evaluate alterations of endothelium response to ischemia, in relation to physiological and clinical conditions, so indicating possible usefulness to optimize and personalize risk stratification.
The Greater Metropolitan Medical Alumni Council (GMMAC)
Authors: Belilos Elise , Oleske James M. , Medow Norman B. , Sadovsky Richard , Campese Christopher L. , Bello Jacqueline A. , Swan Kenneth G.
Published: May 2016

Objective

The greater New York metropolitan area includes 8 medical schools. Their alumni association (AA) presidents formed a council 6 years ago, meeting 3 times a year to share ideas and identify best practices to solve mutual problems challenging students and alumni.

Methods

A survey of the 8 medical AAs was conducted; all responded, and the results constitute the data in this report.

Results

Mean AA membership was 2509 or 33% of mean alumni populations (7489). Two AAs conferred membership at graduation; hence, 100% of alumni were AA members. Omitting these 2 AAs reduced mean participation to 1722 or 23%. Alumni association support staff averaged 3.8 persons (range, 1–7 persons). The 2 most frequently cited AA challenges were membership and fund-raising. All AAs had annual or biennial reunions and considered the reunion to be a major commitment of resources. Despite this commitment, mean reunion attendance was only 242 alumni (range, 40–500 alumni) or 7.3% of alumni in anniversary years (5-year intervals). The mean number of alumni who contributed annually to their alma mater through its AA was 1936 alumni (range, 500–3500 alumni), or 26% (range, 5%–47%). Medical AAs reported mean assets of $2,755,000 (range, $6475–$11,000,000). The mean AA budget was $298,750, of which 65% (range, 13%–100%) was devoted to “medical student support”. The most frequently cited student activities were “career night” (100%), “white coat ceremonies” (63%), medical equipment (stethoscopes, etc, 50%), and alumni host programs (38%). Eleven additional medical student activities received financial support from the 8 AAs in varying proportions.

Conclusions

Each AA in the Greater Metropolitan Medical Alumni Council has derived significant benefit from the application of best practices to its individual problem set. In particular, a nascent AA developed significant momentum in its formation and development by its participation in the Greater Metropolitan Medical Alumni Council. Additionally, these data provide a foundation for the development of best practices within medical school AA for optimizing support of student programs and alumni participation. Stronger AAs will translate into enhanced support of educational programs for medical students. We urge formation of similar medical AA organizations in other metropolitan areas.
The Effect of Intra-articular Injection of Betamethasone Acetate/Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate at the Knee Joint on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis: A Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Habib George , Artul Suheil , Chernin Mark , Hakim Geries , Jabbour Adel
Published: May 2016

Background

Intra-articular corticosteroid injection (IACI) of betamethasone depot preparation is a popular procedure at the knee joint. Intra-articular corticosteroid injection in general could be associated with systemic effects including suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. There are nearly no reports on the effect of IACI of betamethasone at the knee joint on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

Method

Consecutive patients attending the rheumatology or orthopedic clinic with osteoarthritic knee pain who were not responding satisfactorily to medical and physical therapy were allocated to group 1 after consent and given IACI of 6 mg of betamethasone acetate/betamethasone sodium phosphate. After completion of this part, consecutive age- and sex-matched patients were allocated to group 2 and given intra-articular injection of 60 mg of sodium hyaluronate. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiographic variables were documented. Just before the knee injection and 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 weeks later, patients had 1-μg adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) stimulation test. Secondary adrenal insufficiency (SAI) was defined as levels of less than 18 µg/dL and lack of a rise of more than 6 µg/dL in serum cortisol level, 30 minutes after the ACTH stimulation test. Patients were blinded to the injected material, and all injections were ultrasound guided.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled in each group and equally divided between the 2 sexes. The mean age of the patients was approximately 54 years in both groups. No significant difference in any variable was seen between the 2 groups. One patient only from group 1 (the betamethasone group) had SAI 3 weeks after the IACI compared to none in the control group ( P > 0.9999). His serum cortisol level 30 minutes after the ACTH stimulation was 17 µg/dL, with a rise of 3 µg/dL from baseline.

Conclusion

Intra-articular corticosteroid injection of 6 mg of betamethasone acetate/betamethasone sodium phosphate at the knee joint was not significantly associated with SAI at the time points tested.
A Postmarketing Surveillance Study on Erbitux (Cetuximab) in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Refractory to Irinotecan-Containing Treatment
Authors: Huang Wen-Tsung , Chen Hong-Hwa , Yeh Chung-Hung , Lu Yin-Che , Hwang Wei-Shou , Huang Jen-Seng , Chen Chou-Pin , Lin Peng-Chan , Uen Wu-Ching , Lee Yang-Cheng , Wang Hwei-Ming , Wu Hong-Cheng , Chen Jinn-Shiun , Kao Ruey-Ho , Huang Chi-Chou , Jeng Hao-Hsuan , Lin Chia-Jung , Hsieh Ruey-Kuen
Published: May 2016

Objective

This postmarketing surveillance study evaluated the safety and efficacy of cetuximab therapy in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in Taiwan.

Methods

Patients with EGFR-expressing mCRC who had failed prior irinotecan-based chemotherapy and were receiving cetuximab therapy were monitored for treatment efficacy and safety from the time of first infusion until 28 days after the last infusion regardless of the reasons fordiscontinuation. The study followed 269 patients for approximately 2years.

Results

No unexpected adverse events associated with cetuximab therapy were reported, and most events were grade 1 or 2. The most common drug-related adverse events of any grade were rash (21.6%) and dermatitis acneiform (4.8%). Reported grade 3/4 events were rash (4.5%), dermatitis acneiform (0.4%), and diarrhea (0.4%). Cetuximab treatment for patients receiving second-/third-line (177 patients) or above therapy (92 patients) was associated with a median progression-free survival time of 3.37 and 3.90 months, respectively, and a median overall survival time of 17.6 and 21.1 months, respectively. The response rates for the second-/third-line treatment and fourth-line or above cetuximab treatment groups were similar (21.5% vs 17.4%; P = 0.428).

Conclusion

Cetuximab showed no unexpected safety findings and was efficacious in treating patients with EGFR-expressing mCRC in community practice in Taiwan.
Theatre Reviews
Authors: Buckley Thea , Walkling Saffron
Published: May 2016

The Taming of the Shrew, Globe to Globe. Dir. Haissam Hussain, 26-27 May 2012

Coriolanus, Edinburgh International Festival. Dir. Lin Zhaohua, 20-21 August 2013
Simulation Model for Correction and Modeling of Probe Head Errors in Five-Axis Coordinate Systems
Authors: Gąska Adam , Gąska Piotr , Gruza Maciej
Published: May 2016

Simulative methods are nowadays frequently used in metrology for the simulation of measurement uncertainty and the prediction of errors that may occur during measurements. In coordinate metrology, such methods are primarily used with the typical three-axis Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), and lately, also with mobile measuring systems. However, no similar simulative models have been developed for five-axis systems in spite of their growing popularity in recent years. This paper presents the numerical model of probe head errors for probe heads that are used in five-axis coordinate systems. The model is based on measurements of material standards (standard ring) and the use of the Monte Carlo method combined with select interpolation methods. The developed model may be used in conjunction with one of the known models of CMM kinematic errors to form a virtual model of a five-axis coordinate system. In addition, the developed methodology allows for the correction of identified probe head errors, thus improving measurement accuracy. Subsequent verification tests prove the correct functioning of the presented model.
Microwave Imaging Radiometers by Aperture Synthesis—Performance Simulator (Part 1): Radiative Transfer Module
Authors: Camps Adriano , Park Hyuk , Bandeiras Jorge , Barbosa Jose , Sousa Ana , D’Addio Salvatore , Martin-Neira Manuel
Published: May 2016

The Synthetic Aperture Interferometric Radiometer Performance Simulator (SAIRPS) is a three-year project sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a completely generic end-to-end performance simulator of arbitrary synthetic aperture interferometric radiometers. This means, on one side, a generic radiative transfer module from 1 to 100 GHz, including land and ocean covers, as well as a fully 3D atmosphere and Faraday ionospheric rotation based on variable TEC. On the other hand, the instrument can have an arbitrary array topology (number of antenna elements, and their time-dependent position and orientation). Receivers’ topology can also be modified, starting from a very generic one to connecting and disconnecting subsystems, whose parameters can be individually configured. These parameters can be defined either by mathematical functions or by input data files, including the frequency and temperature dependence. Generic calibration and image reconstruction algorithms that are suitable for arbitrary array topologies have also been implemented, as well as tools to compute the instrument performance metrics, i.e., radiometric accuracy, sensitivity, angular resolution, etc. This manuscript presents the generic architecture of the SAIRPS, the algorithms implemented in the Radiative Transfer Module, and simulation results showing its performance. A companion manuscript (Part II) describes the instrument and calibration modelling, the image reconstruction algorithms, and the validation tests that were performed.
Effect of Chitosan Properties on Immunoreactivity
Authors: Ravindranathan Sruthi , Koppolu Bhanu , Smith Sean , Zaharoff David
Published: May 2016

Chitosan is a widely investigated biopolymer in drug and gene delivery, tissue engineering and vaccine development. However, the immune response to chitosan is not clearly understood due to contradicting results in literature regarding its immunoreactivity. Thus, in this study, we analyzed effects of various biochemical properties, namely degree of deacetylation (DDA), viscosity/polymer length and endotoxin levels, on immune responses by antigen presenting cells (APCs). Chitosan solutions from various sources were treated with mouse and human APCs (macrophages and/or dendritic cells) and the amount of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) released by the cells was used as an indicator of immunoreactivity. Our results indicate that only endotoxin content and not DDA or viscosity influenced chitosan-induced immune responses. Our data also indicate that low endotoxin chitosan (<0.01 EU/mg) ranging from 20 to 600 cP and 80% to 97% DDA is essentially inert. This study emphasizes the need for more complete characterization and purification of chitosan in preclinical studies in order for this valuable biomaterial to achieve widespread clinical application.
Effects of X-rays Radiation on AISI 304 Stainless Steel Weldings with AISI 316L Filler Material: A Study of Resistance and Pitting Corrosion Behavior
Authors: Cárcel-Carrasco Francisco , Pascual-Guillamón Manuel , Pérez-Puig Miguel
Published: May 2016

This article investigates the effect of low-level ionizing radiation, namely X-rays, on the micro structural characteristics, resistance, and corrosion resistance of TIG-welded joints of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel made using AISI 316L filler rods. The welds were made in two different environments: natural atmospheric conditions and a closed chamber filled with inert argon gas. The influence of different doses of radiation on the resistance and corrosion characteristics of the welds is analyzed. Welded material from inert Ar gas chamber TIG showed better characteristics and lesser irradiation damage effects.
Anti-Inflammatory Applications of Melittin, a Major Component of Bee Venom: Detailed Mechanism of Action and Adverse Effects
Authors: Lee Gihyun , Bae Hyunsu
Published: May 2016

Inflammation is a pervasive phenomenon triggered by the innate and adaptive immune systems to maintain homeostasis. The phenomenon normally leads to recovery from infection and healing, but when not properly phased, inflammation may cause immune disorders. Bee venom is a toxin that bees use for their protection from enemies. However, for centuries it has been used in the Orient as an anti-inflammatory medicine for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Bee venom and its major component, melittin, are potential means of reducing excessive immune responses and provide new alternatives for the control of inflammatory diseases. Recent experimental studies show that the biological functions of melittin could be applied for therapeutic use in vitro and in vivo. Reports verifying the therapeutic effects of melittin are accumulating in the literature, but the cellular mechanism(s) of the anti-inflammatory effects of melittin are not fully elucidated. In the present study, we review the current knowledge on the therapeutic effects of melittin and its detailed mechanisms of action against several inflammatory diseases including skin inflammation, neuroinflammation, atherosclerosis, arthritis and liver inflammation, its adverse effects as well as future prospects regarding the use of melittin.
Nitrogen Assimilation, Abiotic Stress and Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase: The Full Circle of Reductants
Authors: Esposito Sergio
Published: May 2016

Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH; EC 1.1.1.49) is well-known as the main regulatory enzyme of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OPPP) in living organisms. Namely, in Planta, different G6PDH isoforms may occur, generally localized in cytosol and plastids/chloroplasts. These enzymes are differently regulated by distinct mechanisms, still far from being defined in detail. In the last decades, a pivotal function for plant G6PDHs during the assimilation of nitrogen, providing reductants for enzymes involved in nitrate reduction and ammonium assimilation, has been described. More recently, several studies have suggested a main role of G6PDH to counteract different stress conditions, among these salinity and drought, with the involvement of an ABA depending signal. In the last few years, this recognized vision has been greatly widened, due to studies clearly showing the non-conventional subcellular localization of the different G6PDHs, and the peculiar regulation of the different isoforms. The whole body of these considerations suggests a central question: how do the plant cells distribute the reductants coming from G6PDH and balance their equilibrium? This review explores the present knowledge about these mechanisms, in order to propose a scheme of distribution of reductants produced by G6PDH during nitrogen assimilation and stress.
A New Method for Earth Observation Data Analytics Based on Symbolic Machine Learning
Authors: Pesaresi Martino , Syrris Vasileios , Julea Andreea
Published: May 2016

This work introduces a new classification method in the remote sensing domain, suitably adapted to dealing with the challenges posed by the big data processing and analytics framework. The method is based on symbolic learning techniques, and it is designed to work in complex and information-abundant environments, where relationships among different data layers are assessed in model-free and computationally-effective modalities. The two main stages of the method are the data reduction-sequencing and the association analysis. The former refers to data representation; the latter searches for systematic relationships between data instances derived from images and spatial information encoded in supervisory signals. Subsequently, a new measure named the evidence-based normalized differential index, inspired by the probability-based family of objective interestingness measures, evaluates these associations. Additional information about the computational complexity of the classification algorithm and some critical remarks are briefly introduced. An application of land cover mapping where the input image features are morphological and radiometric descriptors demonstrates the capacity of the method; in this instructive application, a subset of eight classes from the Corine Land Cover is used as the reference source to guide the training phase.
A Dual-Field Sensing Scheme for a Guidance System for the Blind
Authors: Lin Qing , Han Youngjoon
Published: May 2016

An electronic guidance system is very helpful in improving blind people’s perceptions in a local environment. In our previous work “Lin, Q.; Han, Y. A Context-Aware-Based Audio Guidance System for Blind People Using a Multimodal Profile Model. Sensors 2014, 14, 18670–18700”, a context-aware guidance system using a combination of a laser scanner and a camera was proposed. By using a near-field graphical model, the proposed system could interpret a near-field scene in very high resolution. In this paper, our work is extended by adding a far-field graphical model. The integration of the near-field and the far-field models constitutes a dual-field sensing scheme. In the near-field range, reliable inference of the ground and object status is obtained by fusing range data and image data using the near-field graphical model. In the far-field range, which only the camera can cover, the far-field graphical model is proposed to interpret far-field image data based on appearance and spatial prototypes built using the near-field interpreted data. The dual-field sensing scheme provides a solution for the guidance systems to optimise their scene interpretation capability using simple sensor configurations. Experiments under various local conditions were conducted to show the efficiency of the proposed scheme in improving blind people’s perceptions in urban environments.
Pouvoir d'Etat et autres puissances : le rôle politique des métiers bruxellois au XVIIIe siècle.
Authors: Van Honacker Karin
Published: May 2016

Staats- en andere macht : de politieke rol van de Brusselse ambachten in de XVIIIde eeuw.

In dit artikel wordt de oorsprong onderzocht van de werkelijke macht die de Brusselse ambachten zich in de loop der eeuwen toegeëigend hebben en die zij hebben kunnen bewaren tot het einde van de XVIIIde eeuw.

Vier bronnen waaruit de ambachten hun macht en invloed ontleenden worden behandeld : de traditie en lange geschiedenis van de Derde Stand in het hertogdom Brabant en zijn structuur ; de belangrijke steun van zowat geheel de Brusselse bevolking ; het bij gelegenheid voeren van een verstandige vorm van oppositie aan de hand van verzoekschriften en andere rechtsmiddelen ; het besef bij de overheid van de aanzienlijke steun voor initiatieven en ondernemingen van de ambachten.

Het voortbestaan van de Brusselse ambachten lijkt veeleer verbonden te zijn met het politiek opportunisme van het geheel van de plaatselijke machtsdragers tegenover het gezag van een in vorming zijnde gecentraliseerde staat.