bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of skeletal muscle blood oxygenation level‐dependent MRI and skin laser doppler flowmetry in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Partovi Sasan , Schulte Anja‐Carina , Staub Daniel , Jacobi Bjoern , Aschwanden Markus , Walker Ulrich A. , Imfeld Stephan , Broz Pavel , Benz Daniela , Zipp Lisa , Takes Martin , Jäger Kurt A. , Huegli Rolf W. , Bilecen Deniz
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To investigate the origin of skeletal muscle BOLD MRI alterations in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) by correlating BOLD MRI T2* signal of calf muscles with microcirculatory blood flow of calf skin measured by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF).

Materials and Methods

BOLD MRI (3T) and LDF measurements were performed in 12 consecutive SSc patients (6 women, 6 men; mean age 54.0 ± 10.0 years) and 12 healthy volunteers (4 men, 8 women; mean age 44.7 ± 13.1 years). For both modalities, the same cuff compression paradigm at mid‐thigh level was used. LDF datasets were acquired using a PeriScan PIM II Imager (Perimed AB, Stockholm, Sweden) at the upper calf corresponding to the level of MR imaging. Cross‐correlations of BOLD and LDF signal intensity changes depending on time lags between both time series were calculated.

Results

Maximal cross‐correlations of BOLD T2* and LDF measurements were calculated as 0.93 (healthy volunteers) and 0.94 (SSc patients) for a BOLD time lag of approximately 10 s. Key parameter analysis suggested that in contrast to hyperemic BOLD signal loss at maximum value in SSc patients, ischemic T2* decrease cannot be explained by differences of tissue perfusion.

Conclusion

Skeletal muscle BOLD T2* signal in SSc patients is closely correlated with changes of microperfusion as detected by LDF.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:1408–1413. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of myocardial partition coefficient of gadolinium (λ) in dilated cardiomyopathy and its impact on segmental and global systolic function
Authors: Jacquier Alexis , Kallifatidis Alexandros , Guibert Nicolas , Giorgi Roch , Falque Claire , Thuny Franck , Croisille Pierre , Clarysse Patrick , Maurel Boris , Flavian Antonin , Gaubert Jean‐Yves , Moulin Guy , Habib Gilbert
Published: November 2013

Purpose

1) To assess the myocardial partition coefficient (λ) of gadolinium quantified using T1 mapping in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM); and 2) to assess the impact of increased λ on left ventricular (LV) circumferential strain and ejection fraction in DCM.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen patients with DCM and 11 controls were prospectively included. All patients and controls underwent a 1.5T MRI using: 1) cine to quantify LV volumes and function; 2) tagging to quantify circumferential strain in mid‐LV; 3) T1 mapping before and 9 minutes after contrast injection to quantify R1, ΔR1, and λ; and 4) inversion recovery 3D Flash was used to assess late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) 10 minutes after Gd DOTA injection (0.2 mmol/kg). We used Student's t‐test to compare means, Pearson's test for correlation assessment, and a mixed linear model to integrate the dependency between myocardial segments.

Results

No difference in median λ was measured between patients with (0.52 [interquartile range = 0.48–0.56]) and without enhancement on LGE (0.51 [0.47‐0.54]; P = 0.07). Circumferential strain value measured in each segment was correlated with the λ measured in the corresponding segment (r = 0.55; P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis revealed a significant link between the λ in each segment and circumferential strain (0.002 ± 0.001; P = 0.009) and also with ejection fraction (−0.001 ± 0.0008; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

In DCM, λ correlates independently with circumferential strain and ejection fraction, suggesting that there is a link between λ and systolic function.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:1336–1341. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carcinoma of the anal canal: Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) versus three‐dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT)
Authors: Sale Charlotte , Moloney Phillip , Mathlum Maitham
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Patients with anal canal carcinoma treated with standard conformal radiotherapy frequently experience severe acute and late toxicity reactions to the treatment area. Roohipour et al. (Dis Colon Rectum 2008; 51: 147–53) stated a patient's tolerance of chemoradiation to be an important prediction of treatment success. A new intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) technique for anal carcinoma cases has been developed at the Andrew Love Cancer Centre aimed at reducing radiation to surrounding healthy tissue.

Methods

A same‐subject repeated measures design was used for this study, where five anal carcinoma cases at the Andrew Love Cancer Centre were selected. Conformal and IMRT plans were generated and dosimetric evaluations were performed. Each plan was prescribed a total of 54 Gray (Gy) over a course of 30 fractions to the primary site.

Results

The IMRT plans resulted in improved dosimetry to the planning target volume (PTV) and reduction in radiation to the critical structures (bladder, external genitalia and femoral heads). Statistically there was no difference between the IMRT and conformal plans in the dose to the small and large bowel; however, the bowel IMRT dose–volume histogram (DVH) doses were consistently lower.

Conclusion

The IMRT plans were superior to the conformal plans with improved dose conformity and reduced radiation to the surrounding healthy tissue. Anecdotally it was found that patients tolerated the IMRT treatment better than the three‐dimensional (3D) conformal radiation therapy. This study describes and compares the planning techniques.
Intracellular distribution of differentially phosphorylated dual‐specificity tyrosine phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A)
Authors: Kaczmarski Wojciech , Barua Madhabi , Mazur‐Kolecka Bozena , Frackowiak Janusz , Dowjat Wieslaw , Mehta Pankaj , Bolton David , Hwang Yu‐Wen , Rabe Ausma , Albertini Giorgio , Wegiel Jerzy
Published: November 2013

The gene encoding dual‐specificity tyrosine phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) is located within the Down syndrome (DS) critical region of chromosome 21. DYRK1A interacts with a plethora of substrates in the cytosol, cytoskeleton, and nucleus. Its overexpression is a contributing factor to the developmental alterations and age‐associated pathology observed in DS. We hypothesized that the intracellular distribution of DYRK1A and cell‐compartment‐specific functions are associated with DYRK1A posttranslational modifications. Fractionation showed that, in both human and mouse brain, almost 80% of DYRK1A was associated with the cytoskeleton, and the remaining DYRK1A was present in the cytosolic and nuclear fractions. Coimmunoprecipitation revealed that DYRK1A in the brain cytoskeleton fraction forms complexes with filamentous actin, neurofilaments, and tubulin. Two‐dimensional gel analysis of the fractions revealed DYRK1A with distinct isoelectric points: 5.5–6.5 in the nucleus, 7.2–8.2 in the cytoskeleton, and 8.7 in the cytosol. Phosphate‐affinity gel electrophoresis demonstrated several bands of DYRK1A with different mobility shifts for nuclear, cytoskeletal, and cytosolic DYRK1A, indicating modification by phosphorylation. Mass spectrometry analysis disclosed one phosphorylated site in the cytosolic DYRK1A and multiple phosphorylated residues in the cytoskeletal DYRK1A, including two not previously described. This study supports the hypothesis that intracellular distribution and compartment‐specific functions of DYRK1A may depend on its phosphorylation pattern. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DNA damage and oxidative injury are associated with hypomyelination in the corpus callosum of newborn NbnCNS‐del mice
Authors: Liu B. , Chen X. , Wang Z.Q. , Tong W.M.
Published: November 2013

Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS), caused by mutation of the Nbn gene, is a recessive genetic disorder characterized by immunodeficiency, elevated sensitivity to ionizing radiation, chromosomal instability, microcephaly, and high predisposition to malignancies. To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of NBS microcephaly, Frappart et al. previously inactivated Nbn gene in the central nervous system (CNS) of mice by the nestin‐Cre targeting gene system and generated NbnCNS‐del mice. Here we first report that Nbn gene inactivation induces the defective proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of the oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), contributing to the severe hypomyelination of the nerve fibers of the corpus callosum. Under conditions of DNA damage and oxidative stress, the distinct regulatory roles of ATM‐Chk2 signaling and AKT/mTOR signaling are responsible for the defective proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of the Nbn‐deficient OPCs. In addition, specific HDAC isoforms may play distinctive roles in regulating the myelination of the Nbn‐deficient OPCs. However, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor stimulation attenuates the oxidative stress and thereby increases the proliferation of the Nbn‐deficient OPCs, which is accompanied by upregulation of the AKT/mTOR/P70S6K signaling pathway. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that DNA damage and oxidative stress resulting from Nbn gene inactivation are associated with hypomyelination of the nerve fibers of corpus callosum. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
5‐S‐cysteinyldopamine neurotoxicity: Influence on the expression of α‐synuclein and ERp57 in cellular and animal models of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Aureli Cristina , Cassano Tommaso , Masci Alessandra , Francioso Antonio , Martire Sara , Cocciolo Annalisa , Chichiarelli Silvia , Romano Adele , Gaetani Silvana , Mancini Patrizia , Fontana Mario , d'Erme Maria , Mosca Luciana
Published: November 2013

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whose etiology is still unclear in spite of extensive investigations. It has been hypothesized that 5‐S‐cysteinyldopamine (CysDA), a catechol‐thioether metabolite of dopamine (DA), could be an endogenous parkinsonian neurotoxin. To gain further insight into its role in the neurodegenerative process, both CD1 mice and SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were treated with CysDA, and the data were compared with those obtained by the use of 6‐hydroxydopamine, a well‐known parkinsonian mimetic. Intrastriatal injection of CysDA in CD1 mice caused a long‐lasting depletion of DA, providing evidence of in vivo neurotoxicity of CysDA. Both in mice and in SH‐SY5Y cells, CysDA treatment induced extensive oxidative stress, as evidenced by protein carbonylation and glutathione depletion, and affected the expression of two proteins, α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) and ERp57, whose levels are modulated by oxidative insult. Real‐time PCR experiments support these findings, indicating an upregulation of both ERp57 and α‐Syn expression. α‐Syn aggregation was also found to be modulated by CysDA treatment. The present work provides a solid background sustaining the hypothesis that CysDA is involved in parkinsonian neurodegeneration by inducing extensive oxidative stress and protein aggregation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Empirical Support for the Definition of a Complex Trauma Event in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Wamser‐Nanney Rachel , Vandenberg Brian R.
Published: November 2013

Complex trauma events have been defined as chronic, interpersonal traumas that begin early in life (Cook, Blaustein, Spinazzola, & van der Kolk, ). The complex trauma definition has been examined in adults, as indicated by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM‐IV) field trial; however, this research was lacking in child populations. The symptom presentations of complexly traumatized children were contrasted with those exposed to other, less severe trauma ecologies that met 1 or 2 features of the complex trauma definition. Included in this study were 346 treatment‐seeking children and adolescents (ages 3–18 years) who had experienced a traumatic event. Results indicated that child survivors of complex trauma presented with higher levels of generalized behavior problems and trauma‐related symptoms than those who experienced (a) acute noninterpersonal trauma, (b) chronic interpersonal trauma that begins later in life, and (c) acute interpersonal trauma. Greater levels of behavioral problems were observed in children exposed to complex trauma as compared to those who experienced a traumatic event that begins early in life. These results provide support for the complex trauma event definition and suggest the need for a complex trauma diagnostic construct for children and adolescents.
Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory‐2 (DRRI‐2): An Updated Tool for Assessing Psychosocial Risk and Resilience Factors Among Service Members and Veterans
Authors: Vogt Dawne , Smith Brian N. , King Lynda A. , King Daniel W. , Knight Jeffrey , Vasterling Jennifer J.
Published: November 2013

The Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory (DRRI) is a widely used instrument for assessing deployment‐related risk and resilience factors among war veterans. A revision of this instrument was recently undertaken to enhance the DRRI's applicability across a variety of deployment‐related circumstances and military subgroups. The resulting suite of 17 distinct DRRI‐2 scales is the product of a multiyear psychometric endeavor that involved (a) focus groups with Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans to inform an assessment of the content validity of original DRRI measures, (b) examination of item and scale characteristics of revised scales in a national sample of 469 OEF/OIF veterans, and (c) administration of refined scales to a second national sample of 1,046 OEF/OIF veterans to confirm their psychometric quality. Both classical test theory and item response theory analytical strategies were applied to inform major revisions, which included updating the coverage of warfare‐related stressors, expanding the assessment of family factors throughout the deployment cycle, and shortening scales. Finalized DRRI‐2 scales demonstrated strong internal consistency reliability and criterion‐related validity. The DRRI‐2 can be applied to examine the role that psychosocial factors play in postdeployment health and inform interventions aimed at reducing risk and enhancing resilience among war veterans.
Cue‐Centered Treatment for Youth Exposed to Interpersonal Violence: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Carrion Victor G. , Kletter Hilit , Weems Carl F. , Berry Rebecca Rialon , Rettger John P.
Published: November 2013

This study provides preliminary evidence of the feasibility and efficacy of the Stanford cue‐centered treatment for reducing posttraumatic stress, depression, and anxiety in children chronically exposed to violence. Sixty‐five youth aged 8–17 years were recruited from 13 schools. Participants were randomly assigned to cue‐centered treatment or a waitlist control group. Assessments were conducted at 4 discrete time points. Self‐report measures assessed youth symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Self‐report ratings of caregiver anxiety and depression as well as caregiver report of child PTSD were also obtained. Therapists evaluated participants’ overall symptom improvement across treatment sessions. Hierarchal linear modeling analyses showed that compared to the waitlist group, the cue‐centered treatment group had greater reductions in PTSD symptoms both by caregiver and child report, as well as caregiver anxiety. Cue‐centered treatment, a hybrid trauma intervention merging diverse theoretical approaches, demonstrated feasibility, adherence, and efficacy in treating youth with a history of interpersonal violence.
Association between allergic rhinitis and nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A population‐based study
Authors: Chung Shiu‐Dong , Wu Chuan‐Song , Lin Herng‐Ching , Hung Shih‐Han
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Although it is known that inflammatory processes can elevate the risk of cancer, to date the association between allergic rhinitis (AR) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the association between NPC and AR based on a population‐based database in Taiwan.

Study Design

A case‐control study.

Methods

In total, 1,799 NPC cases and 5,397 randomly selected controls without NPC were included. We evaluated the prevalence and risk of prior AR between cases and controls. We also performed a conditional logistic regression analysis to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for having been previously diagnosed with AR between cases and controls.

Results

In total, 2,453 of the 7,196 study subjects (34.1%) had previously received an AR diagnosis; 875 (48.6%) were cases and 1,578 (29.2%) were controls (P < 0.001). The conditional logistic regression suggested that the OR of prior AR for cases was 2.29 (95% CI = 2.05–2.56) compared to controls. Even after adjusting for geographic region, monthly income, urbanization level, diabetes, tobacco use disorder, and alcohol abuse, the OR of having previously received an AR diagnosis among cases was 2.25 (95% CI = 2.02–2.59) that of controls. Furthermore, after excluding subjects diagnosed with AR within 1, 2, or 3 years prior to the index date, the respective adjusted ORs were 1.91, 1.61, and 1.35.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated an association between NPC and prior AR. We recommend that physicians and patients with AR keep in mind this potential risk of subsequent NPC development.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 124:1744–1749, 2013
Predictors of readmission after outpatient otolaryngologic surgery
Authors: Jain Umang , Chandra Rakesh K. , Smith Stephanie S. , Pilecki Matthew , Kim John Y. S.
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Hospital readmissions increase costs to hospitals and patients. There is a paucity of data on benchmark rates of readmission for otolaryngological surgery. Understanding the risk factors that increase readmission rates may help enhance patient education and set system‐wide expectations. We aimed to provide benchmark data on causes and predictors of readmission following outpatient otolaryngological surgery.

Study Design

This study is a retrospective analysis of the 2011 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) dataset.

Methods

NSQIP was reviewed for outpatients with “Otolaryngology (ENT)” as their recorded surgical specialty. Readmission was tracked through the “Unplanned Readmission” variable. Patient characteristics and outcomes were compared using chi‐square analysis and student t tests for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis investigated predictors of readmission.

Results

A total of 6,788 outpatient otolaryngological surgery patients were isolated. The unplanned readmission rate was 2.01%. Multivariate regression analysis revealed superficial surgical site infection (odds ratio [OR] 2.672, confidence interval [CI] 1.133‐6.304, P = .025) and work relative value units (RVU) (OR .972, CI .944–1, P = .049) to be significant predictors of readmission.

Conclusion

Outpatient otolaryngological surgery has an associated 2.01% unplanned readmission rate. Superficial surgical site infection and work RVUs proved to be significant positive and negative risk factors, respectively, for readmission. These findings will help to benchmark outpatient readmission rates and manage patient and hospital system expectations.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 124:1783–1788, 2013
Combined 585 nm pulsed‐dye and 1,064 nm Nd:YAG lasers for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Jalian H. Ray , Avram Mathew M. , Stankiewicz Kelly J. , Shofner Joshua D. , Tannous Zeina
Published: November 2013

Background and Objective

Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) have supporting vasculature that serves as a target for vascular selective lasers. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of repeated treatment with a combined 585 nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) and 1,064 nm Neodymium Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser on BCCs of superficial and nodular subtypes of varying diameters.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ten subjects with 13 biopsy‐proven BCCs received four combined PDL and Nd:YAG at treatments 2–4 week intervals. None of the BCCs met the criteria for Mohs micrographic surgery. The tumor and 4 mm of peripheral skin were treated using standardized parameters delivered with a 7 mm spot with 10% overlap. The treated area was excised and evaluated histologically for residual tumor. The primary study endpoint was histologic clearance of tumor. The secondary study endpoint was blinded investigator assessment of clinical endpoint and adverse effects.

Results

Approximately half of all tumors showed a complete response to four combined PDL and Nd:YAG treatments (n = 7/12, 58%). When stratified by size, 75% of all tumors <1 cm in diameter (n = 6/8) showed complete response. Tumor histologic types among the complete responders included superficial and nodular BCCs. All subjects with incompletely responding BCCs were on various forms of anticoagulation, which we hypothesize, may inhibit laser‐mediated thrombosis necessary for the clinical effect. Blinded investigator assessment suggests that biopsy related erythema improves with subsequent laser treatments.

Conclusions

Combined PDL and Nd:YAG laser is an effective means of reducing tumor burden in patients with BCC and may be a promising, emerging alternative therapy. Factors influencing treatment response includes the concomitant use of anticoagulation. Further studies are needed to investigate and optimize the utility of this treatment protocol. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:1–7, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intraoperative use of spectroscopic detection of protoporphyrin IX from oral 5‐aminolevulinic acid on basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma during Mohs surgery
Authors: Aoyagi Satoru , Hata Hiroo , Homma Erina , Horie Keita , Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: November 2013

Background and Objective

Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) using 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) has been used as an in vivo presurgical diagnostic tool for detecting occult tumor borders of ill‐defined basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), especially before Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). However, most techniques reported in the literature involve gross examination or various digital detection systems to observe the amount of red light fluorescence after topical application of 5‐ALA. This study aimed to conduct a preliminary examination on the accuracy of intraoperative use of PDD by spectroscopic detection from oral 5‐ALA to identify tumor fluorescence from the peritumoral surgical pieces of tissue.

Materials and Methods

Qualitative evaluation of fluorescence spectroscopic detection was performed on 77 specimens from 13 patients with high‐risk BCC and 10 patients with high‐risk squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). All patients were orally administered with 5‐ALA preoperatively. The excised specimens were intraoperatively evaluated by scanning of the fluorescence spectrum. Results were compared with those of histopathology.

Results

Overall sensitivity and specificity were, respectively, 100% and 84.3% for spectroscopic detection. Although the negative predictive value was 100%, the positive predictive value was not sufficiently high for BCC (20%) nor for SCC (62.5%).

Conclusion

Fluorescence spectroscopic detection is as a step towards a possibly useful technique for decreasing the number of excisions in MMS. In its current state, however, it has no substantial clinical advantage. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:132–139, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Risk factors for alcohol relapse after liver transplantation for alcoholic cirrhosis in Japan
Authors: Egawa Hiroto , Nishimura Katsuji , Teramukai Satoshi , Yamamoto Masakazu , Umeshita Koji , Furukawa Hiroyuki , Uemoto Shinji
Published: November 2013

Alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is an established indication for liver transplantation (LT). Most LT procedures in Japan are living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) because of an extreme shortage of deceased donors. Social circumstances enabling LDLT could be favorable for preventing relapse. The aims of this retrospective study were to analyze the outcomes of LDLT for ALC and to evaluate risk factors for relapse in this cohort. One hundred ninety-five subjects underwent LT [LDLT (n = 187), deceased donor LT (n = 5), or domino LT (n = 3)] for ALC in Japan from November 1997 to December 2011. Risk factors for alcohol relapse and the impact of relapse on outcomes were analyzed for 140 patients after the exclusion of 26 patients who died in the hospital and 29 patients without information about alcohol relapse. The incidence of alcohol consumption after LT was 22.9%. The risk factors for patient survival were a donor age ≥ 50 years (P < 0.01) and a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score ≥ 19 (P = 0.03). The 10-year patient survival rates were 21.9% and 73.8% for patients who had relapsed and patients who had not relapsed 18 months after LT, respectively (P = 0.01). The relapse rates were 50.0%, 34.5%, 13.3%, 19.7%, and 14.3% for patients who had received livers from parents, siblings, spouses, sons/daughters, and deceased or domino donors, respectively. A history of treatment for psychological diseases other than alcoholism before LT was a significant indicator for the risk of recidivism (P = 0.02), and noncompliance with clinic visits after LT and smoking after transplantation were promising indicators for the risk of recidivism (P = 0.06, and P = 0.05, respectively). Preoperative alcohol consumption was not a risk factor. In conclusion, rather than selecting patients on the basis of preoperative alcohol use, we should provide sociomedical support to improve adherence after LT for ALC in Japan. Liver Transpl 20:298-310, 2014. © 2013 AASLD.
Protective effects elicited by levosimendan against liver ischemia/reperfusion injury in anesthetized rats
Authors: Grossini Elena , Pollesello Piero , Bellofatto Kevin , Sigaudo Lorenzo , Farruggio Serena , Origlia Veronica , Mombello Cristina , Mary David A. S. G. , Valente Guido , Vacca Giovanni
Published: November 2013

As in other organs, oxidative stress–induced injury and cell death may result from free oxygen radical–dependent mechanisms and alterations in signal transduction pathways leading to apoptosis. Among the new suggested therapies for injuries caused by oxidative stress, the use of levosimendan has been reported to be quite promising. In the present study, we aimed to examine the protective effects of levosimendan against liver oxidative stress in anesthetized rats and to analyze the involvement of mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate–dependent potassium (mitoKATP) channels and nitric oxide (NO). In 50 anesthetized rats, liver ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) was performed via nontraumatic portal occlusion. In some animals, levosimendan was infused into the portal vein at the onset of reperfusion, whereas other rats received the vehicle only. Moreover, in some rats, levosimendan was given after the intraportal administration of l-Nω-nitro-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) or 5-hydroxydecanoate (5HD). The portal vein blood flow was measured, and blood samples were taken for the determination of transaminases, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and reduced glutathione (GSH); liver biopsy samples were used for B cell lymphoma 2–associated X protein, caspase-9, Akt, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activation through western blotting. Also, caspase-3 activity was measured. In rats, I/R caused an increase in apoptotic markers, transaminases, and TBARS and a decrease in GSH and Akt activation. Levosimendan administration was able to counteract oxidative damage and apoptosis in a dose-dependent way and to increase GSH, Akt, and eNOS activation. All effects of levosimendan were abolished by pretreatment with l-NAME and 5HD. In conclusion, the results of the present study show that levosimendan can exert protection against ischemic liver damage through mechanisms related to NO production and mitoKATP channel function. These data provide interesting perspectives into the use of levosimendan in hepatic surgery and transplantation. Liver Transpl 20:361-375, 2014. © 2013 AASLD.
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry‐based immunoassay: A review
Authors: Liu Rui , Wu Peng , Yang Lu , Hou Xiandeng , Lv Yi
Published: November 2013

The last 10 years witnessed the emerging and growing up of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS)‐based immunoassay. Its high sensitivity and multiplex potential have made ICPMS a revolutionary technique for bioanalyte quantification after element‐tagged immunoassay. This review focuses on the major developments and the applications of ICPMS‐based immunoassay, with emphasis on methodological innovations. The ICPMS‐based immunoassay with elemental tags of metal ions, nanoparticles, and metal containing polymers was discussed in detail. The recent development of multiplex assay, mass cytometry, suspension array, and surface analysis demonstrated the versatility and great potential of this technique. ICPMS‐based immunoassay has become one of the key methods in bioanalysis. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 33: 373–393, 2014
Jean‐Antoine Nollet: The father of experimental electrospray
Authors: Dumont Quentin , Cole Richard B.
Published: November 2013

The development of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) was a 20th century occurrence that underwent rapid acceleration especially in the 1990's. However, long prior to its coupling with mass spectrometry, the electrification of liquids had been studied in a variety of contexts. Although initial reports describing cone formation upon electrification of water drops came out of England, the first true experiments investigating the electrospray phenomenon were performed in the middle of the 18th century by Abbé Jean‐Antoine Nollet. The current report, associated with the French Regional Issue of Mass Spectrometry Reviews, examines the contributions of Abbé Nollet to the earliest understanding of the electrospray phenomenon. A description of his accomplishments is placed in the context of the societal and scientific developments of the “Age of Enlightenment” out of which Jean‐Antoine Nollet arose. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 33: 418–423, 2014.
Continuous high‐dose vasopressors in free anterolateral thigh flap transfer for pharyngeal reconstruction: A report of two cases
Authors: Chao Jerry W. , Taylor Erin M. , Rahmati Rahmatullah W. , Rohde Christine H.
Published: November 2013

Use of vasopressors is controversial in patients undergoing free flap reconstruction. Recent literature has suggested that it is safe to administer vasopressors intraoperatively during these procedures. However studies have not addressed whether this safety extends to continuous high dose use. We present two cases of patients who underwent surgery for squamous cell carcinoma of the pharyngeal region, requiring laryngopharyngectomy. Both had pharyngeal reconstruction with a free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap. The first required intraoperative vasopressors throughout the surgery, extending into the postoperative period. The second required vasopressors in the postoperative period continuously for weeks after surgery. Vasopressors were administered at treatment levels for shock. Neither developed flap compromise, suggesting that pharyngeal reconstruction with an ALT flap may be safely performed in the setting of continuous high‐dose vasopressors. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:237–239, 2014.
GABAA receptor modulation by terpenoids from Sideritis extracts
Authors: Kessler Artur , Sahin‐Nadeem Hilal , Lummis Sarah C. R. , Weigel Ingrid , Pischetsrieder Monika , Buettner Andrea , Villmann Carmen
Published: November 2013

Scope

GABAA receptors are modulated by Sideritis extracts. The aim of this study was to identify single substances from Sideritis extracts responsible for GABAA receptor modulation.

Methods and results

Single volatile substances identified by GC have been tested in two expression systems, Xenopus oocytes and human embryonic kidney cells. Some of these substances, especially carvacrol, were highly potent on GABAA receptors composed of α1β2 and α1β2γ2 subunits. All effects measured were independent from the presence of the γ2 subunit. As Sideritis extracts contain a high amount of terpenes, 13 terpenes with similar structure elements were tested in the same way. Following a prescreening on α1β2 GABAA receptors, a high‐throughput method was used for identification of the most effective terpenoid substances on GABA‐affinity of α1β2γ2 receptors expressed in transfected cell lines. Isopulegol, pinocarveol, verbenol, and myrtenol were the most potent modifiers of GABAA receptor function.

Conclusion

Comparing the chemical structures, the action of terpenes on GABAA receptors is most probably due to the presence of hydroxyl groups and a bicyclic character of the substances tested. We propose an allosteric modulation independent from the γ2 subunit and similar to the action of alcohols and anesthetics.
Lemon balm extract causes potent antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects in insulin‐resistant obese mice
Authors: Weidner Christopher , Wowro Sylvia J. , Freiwald Anja , Kodelja Vitam , Abdel‐Aziz Heba , Kelber Olaf , Sauer Sascha
Published: November 2013

Over the last decades polyetiological metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes have emerged as a global epidemic. Efficient strategies for prevention and treatment include dietary intervention and the development of validated nutraceuticals. Safe extracts of edible plants provide a resource of structurally diverse molecules that can effectively interfere with multifactorial diseases. In this study, we describe the application of ethanolic lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) leaves extract for the treatment of insulin‐resistance and dyslipidemia in mice. We show that lemon balm extract (LBE) activates the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs), which have key roles in the regulation of whole body glucose and lipid metabolism. Application of LBE (0.6 mg/mL) to human primary adipocytes resulted in specific peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor target gene expression. LBE treatment of insulin‐resistant high‐fat diet‐fed C57BL/6 mice (200 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks considerably reduced hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, plasma triacylglycerol, nonesterified fatty acids and LDL/VLDL cholesterol levels. Taken together, ethanolic lemon balm extract can potentially be used to prevent or concomitantly treat type 2 diabetes and associated disorders such as dyslipidemia and hypercholesterolemia.
Epigenetic regulation of miRNA‐cancer stem cells nexus by nutraceuticals
Authors: Ahmad Aamir , Li Yiwei , Bao Bin , Kong Dejuan , Sarkar Fazlul H.
Published: November 2013

Nutraceuticals, the bioactive food components represented by many naturally occurring dietary compounds, have been investigated for a few decades for their numerous beneficial effects, including their anticancer properties. The initial interest in the cancer‐preventing/therapeutic ability of these agents was based on their ability to affect multiple signaling pathways that are deregulated in cancer cells. With a shift in the focus of cancer research to the emerging areas such as epigenetic regulation, microRNAs (miRNAs) and the cancer stem cells (CSCs), nutraceuticals initially appeared out of place. However, research investigations over the last several years have slowly but firmly presented evidence that supports a relevance of these agents in modern day research. While nutraceuticals are increasingly being realized to alter miRNA/CSCs expression and function, the molecular mechanism(s) are not very clearly understood. Epigenetic regulation is one mechanism by which these agents exert their anticancer effects. In this focused mini review, we summarize our current understanding of epigenetic regulation of miRNAs and CSCs by nutraceuticals. We discuss both direct and indirect evidences that support such an activity of these compounds.
Structural elucidation and NMR assignments of two new pyrrolosesquiterpenes from Streptomyces sp. Hd7‐21
Authors: Liu Dong‐Ze , Liang Bo‐Wen
Published: November 2013

Two new pyrrolosesquiterpenes were isolated from cultures of the soil actinomycete Streptomyces sp. Hd7‐21. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses including MS and 1D and 2D NMR data. Their cytotoxic activity against a panel of human cancer cell lines were biologically evaluated. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Short repetition time multiband echo‐planar imaging with simultaneous pulse recording allows dynamic imaging of the cardiac pulsation signal
Authors: Tong Yunjie , Hocke Lia M. , Frederick Blaise deB.
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Recently developed simultaneous multislice echo‐planar imaging (EPI) sequences permit imaging of the whole brain at short repetition time (TR), allowing the cardiac fluctuations to be fully sampled in blood‐oxygen‐level dependent functional MRI (BOLD fMRI). A novel low computational analytical method was developed to dynamically map the passage of the pulsation signal through the brain and visualize the whole cerebral vasculature affected by the pulse signal. This algorithm is based on a simple combination of fast BOLD fMRI and the scanner's own built‐in pulse oximeter.

Methods

Multiple, temporally shifted copies of the pulse oximeter data (with 0.08 s shifting step and coverage of a 1‐s span) were downsampled and used as cardiac pulsation regressors in a general linear model based analyses (FSL) of the fMRI data. The resulting concatenated z‐statistics maps show the voxels that are affected as the cardiac signal travels through the brain.

Results

Many voxels were highly correlated with the pulsation regressor or its temporally shifted version. The dynamic and static cardiac pulsation maps obtained from both the task and resting state scans, resembled cerebral vasculature.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated: (i) cardiac pulsation significantly affects most voxels in the brain; (ii) combining fast fMRI and this analytical method can reveal additional clinical information to functional studies. Magn Reson Med 72:1268–1276, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
B1 estimation using adiabatic refocusing: BEAR
Authors: Jordanova Kalina V. , Nishimura Dwight G. , Kerr Adam B.
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Accurate measurement of the nonuniform transmit radiofrequency field is useful for many applications in magnetic resonance imaging, such as calibrating the scanner transmit system, evaluating coil performance, and improving image quality and quantitation. The radiofrequency field excitation amplitude (B1) is often obtained by acquiring a B1 map. In this study, a new B1 mapping method is proposed.

Theory and Methods

The use of two adiabatic full passage pulses with different magnitudes applied as successive refocusing pulses results in a linear relationship between phase and B1 field strength that is insensitive to the repetition time, off‐resonance effects, T1, and T2. Using this method, B1 mapping can be localized to a slice or three‐dimensional (3D) volume, with a spin‐echo acquisition that is appropriate for fast projection measurements.

Results

This new method is shown to agree well with the Bloch‐Siegert B1 mapping method for both phantom and in vivo B1 measurements at 1.5T, 3T, and 7T. The method's ability to acquire accurate projection B1 measurements is also demonstrated.

Conclusion

This method's high dynamic range, ability to make fast projection measurements, and linear quantitative relationship between phase and B1 make it an ideal candidate for use in robust transmitter gain calibration. Magn Reson Med 72:1302–1310, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrical impedance myography correlates with standard measures of Als severity
Authors: Rutkove Seward B. , Caress James B. , Cartwright Michael S. , Burns Ted M. , Warder Judy , David William S. , Goyal Namita , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Benatar Michael , Sharma Khema R. , Narayanaswami Pushpa , Raynor Elizabeth M. , Watson Mary Lou , Shefner Jeremy M.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Electrical impedance myography (EIM) can be used to assess amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) progression. The relationship between EIM values and standard assessment measures, however, is unknown. Methods: EIM 50 kHz phase data from 60 subjects who participated in a longitudinal natural history study of ALS were correlated with handheld dynamometry (HHD), the ALS Functional Rating Scale‐Revised (ALSFRS‐R) score, and motor unit number estimation (MUNE). Results: Moderate strength correlations between EIM parameters and HHD were observed for both whole‐body and individual upper and lower extremity values. Similarly, moderate strength correlations were observed between EIM and ALSFRS‐R upper and lower extremity subscores, but not total ALSFRS‐R scores. MUNE correlated significantly with single muscle EIM data but not with whole body or upper or lower extremity values. Conclusions: These results support the concept that EIM can serve as a meaningful measure of disease severity in ALS. Muscle Nerve 49:441–443, 2014
A new pitfall in a sensory conduction study of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve: Spread to the radial nerve
Authors: Oishi Chizuko , Sonoo Masahiro , Kurono Hiroko , Hatanaka Yuki , Shimizu Teruo , Chiba Atsuro , Sakuta Manabu
Published: November 2013

Introduction: We describe a previously unreported pitfall, spread of the stimulus at the elbow to the radial nerve, in an antidromic sensory nerve conduction study of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous (LAC) nerve. Methods: Subjects consisted of 80 healthy volunteers, and both sides were examined for each subject. Besides routine recording of the LAC nerve, sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) of the radial nerve were recorded distally. Results: The spread phenomenon occurred in 73 of 160 arms (46%), and the SNAP amplitude increased due to contamination of the radial SNAP up to 6.7 times the genuine LAC SNAP. In 10 arms (6%), the spread started before the LAC SNAP was saturated, and the genuine LAC SNAP was unknown due to an anatomical variation in at least 1 arm. Conclusions: Without monitoring distal radial SNAPs, the spread phenomenon will remain unrecognized. This pitfall undermines the reliability of the test. Muscle Nerve 50:186–192, 2014
Etifoxine provides benefits in nerve repair with acellular nerve grafts
Authors: Zhou Xiang , He Bo , Zhu Zhaowei , He Xinhua , Zheng Canbin , Xu Jian , Jiang Li , Gu Liqiang , Zhu Jiakai , Zhu Qingtang , Liu Xiaolin
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Acellular nerve grafts are good candidates for nerve repair, but the clinical outcome of grafting is not always satisfactory. We investigated whether etifoxine could enhance nerve regeneration. Methods: Seventy‐two Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups: (1) autograft; (2) acellular nerve graft; and (3) acellular nerve graft plus etifoxine. Histological and electrophysiological examinations were performed to evaluate the efficacy of nerve regeneration. Walking‐track analysis was used to examine functional recovery. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate changes in mRNA level. Results: Etifoxine: (i) increased expression of neurofilaments in regenerated axons; (ii) improved sciatic nerve regeneration measured by histological examination; (iii) increased nerve conduction velocity; (iv) improved walking behavior as measured by footprint analysis; and (v) boosted expression of neurotrophins. Conclusions: These results show that etifoxine can enhance peripheral nerve regeneration across large nerve gaps repaired by acellular nerve grafts by increasing expression of neurotrophins. Muscle Nerve 50:235–243, 2014
On Fröhlich's solution for Boussinesq's problem
Authors: Selvadurai A. P. S.
Published: November 2013

The concentration factor introduced by O. K. Fröhlich is visualized as a procedure for examining the pattern of load transfer from surface loads to the interior of a geomaterial. The historical details that led to the introduction of the concentration factor are scant although it is widely used in the area of soil mechanics problems associated with tillage‐induced soil compaction. The purpose of this note is to examine the concentration factor in terms of the geomechanics of an elastic continuum and to identify the precise conditions that are satisfied by the distribution of stresses and strains that accommodate the concentration factor. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability of MRSI brain temperature mapping at 1.5 and 3 T
Authors: Thrippleton Michael J. , Parikh Jehill , Harris Bridget A. , Hammer Steven J. , Semple Scott I. K. , Andrews Peter J. D. , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Marshall Ian
Published: November 2013

MRSI permits the non‐invasive mapping of brain temperature in vivo, but information regarding its reliability is lacking. We obtained MRSI data from 31 healthy male volunteers [age range, 22–40 years; mean ± standard deviation (SD), 30.5 ± 5.0 years]. Eleven subjects (age range, 23–40 years; mean ± SD, 30.5 ± 5.2 years) were invited to receive four point‐resolved spectroscopy MRSI scans on each of 3 days in both 1.5‐T (TR/TE = 1000/144 ms) and 3‐T (TR/TE = 1700/144 ms) clinical scanners; a further 20 subjects (age range, 22–40 years; mean ± SD, 30.5 ± 4.9 years) were scanned on a single occasion at 3 T. Data were fitted in the time domain to determine the water–N‐acetylaspartate chemical shift difference, from which the temperature was estimated. Temperature data were analysed using a linear mixed effects model to determine variance components and systematic temperature changes during the scanning sessions. To characterise the effects of instrumental drift on apparent MRSI brain temperature, a temperature‐controlled phantom was constructed and scanned on multiple occasions. Components of apparent in vivo temperature variability at 1.5 T/3 T caused by inter‐subject (0.18/0.17 °C), inter‐session (0.18/0.15 °C) and within‐session (0.36/0.14 °C) effects, as well as voxel‐to‐voxel variation (0.59/0.54 °C), were determined. There was a brain cooling effect during in vivo MRSI of 0.10 °C [95% confidence interval (CI): –0.110, –0.094 °C; p < 0.001] and 0.051 °C (95% CI: –0.054, –0.048 °C; p < 0.001) per scan at 1.5 T and 3 T, respectively, whereas phantom measurements revealed minimal drift in apparent MRSI temperature relative to fibre‐optic temperature measurements. The mean brain temperature at 3 T was weakly associated with aural (R = 0.55, p = 0.002) and oral (R = 0.62, p < 0.001) measurements of head temperature. In conclusion, the variability associated with MRSI brain temperature mapping was quantified. Repeatability was somewhat higher at 3 T than at 1.5 T, although subtle spatial and temporal variations in apparent temperature were demonstrated at both field strengths. Such data should assist in the efficient design of future clinical studies. © 2013 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.