bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventive Effects of Dexmedetomidine on the Liver in a Rat Model of Acid-Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Şen Velat , Güzel Abdulmenap , Selimoğlu Şen Hadice , Ece Aydın , Uluca Ünal , Söker Sevda , Doğan Erdal , Kaplan İbrahim , Deveci Engin
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to examine whether dexmedetomidine improves acute liver injury in a rat model. Twenty-eight male Wistar albino rats weighing 300–350 g were allocated randomly to four groups. In group 1, normal saline (NS) was injected into the lungs and rats were allowed to breathe spontaneously. In group 2, rats received standard ventilation (SV) in addition to NS. In group 3, hydrochloric acid was injected into the lungs and rats received SV. In group 4, rats received SV and 100 µg/kg intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine before intratracheal HCl instillation. Blood samples and liver tissue specimens were examined by biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical methods. Acute lung injury (ALI) was found to be associated with increased malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant activity (TOA), oxidative stress index (OSI), and decreased total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Significantly decreased MDA, TOA, and OSI levels and significantly increased TAC levels were found with dexmedetomidine injection in group 4 (P<0.05). The highest histologic injury scores were detected in group 3. Enhanced hepatic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and reduced CD68 expression were found in dexmedetomidine group compared with the group 3. In conclusion, the presented data provide the first evidence that dexmedetomidine has a protective effect on experimental liver injury induced by ALI.
Rhizospheric Microflora Escalating Aroma Constituents and Yield Attributes inOcimum tenuiflorum(L.) cv. CIM-Ayu
Authors: Saikia Shilpi Khare , Pandey Rakesh
Published: August 2014

The exploration of rhizospheric microbial flora for crop yield enhancement is well established. Rhizospheric microbes influence the plant physiology by imparting several beneficial effects, namely, Nitrogen fixation, increased nutrient uptake, and secondary metabolites production on their host plants. The present study investigates the response ofBacillus megateriumATCC No. 13525,Pseudomonas fluorescensATCC No. 14581, andTrichoderma virideMTCC No. 167 in alone and combined treatments for their effect on growth and yield parameters in a commercially importantOcimum tenuiflorumL. cv. CIM-Ayu. The plant is therapeutically important for its essential oil constituents, namely, eugenol,β-caryophyllene, and various monoterpenes. The combination treatments, T7 (B. megaterium+P. fluorescens) and T8 (B. megaterium+P. fluorescens+T. viride), showed maximum enhancement (27.27%) of percentage essential oil as compared to untreated control. Nutrient uptake especially N2content was significantly increased (43%) with the treatment T8 (B. megaterium+P. fluorescens+T. viride). Amongst major essential oil constituents, eugenol content was maximally increased by 58.5% as compared to 42.9% (control) indicating a cumulative role of microbial inoculants for crop yield boost-up.
Oscillation Criteria for Certain Even Order Neutral Delay Differential Equations with Mixed Nonlinearities
Authors: Han Zhen-Lai , Sun Yi-Bing , Zhao Yan , Yang Dian-Wu
Published: August 2014

We establish some oscillation criteria for the following certain even order neutral delay differential equations with mixed nonlinearities:rtzn-1tα-1zn-1t'+q0(t)(xτ0tα-1x(τ0(t))+q1t(x(τ1(t))β-1x(τ1(t))+q2t(x(τ2(t))γ-1x(τ2(t))=0, t≥t0,wherez(t)=x(t)+p(t)x(σ(t)),nis even integer, andγ>α>β>0.Our results generalize and improve some known results for oscillation of certain even order neutral delay differential equations with mixed nonlinearities.
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Somatic Alteration in Colorectal Cancer with and without Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Shelygin Y. A. , Pospekhova N. I. , Shubin V. P. , Kashnikov V. N. , Frolov S. A. , Sushkov O. I. , Achkasov S. I. , Tsukanov A. S.
Published: August 2014

Colorectal cancer is highly metastatic even when the tumors are small. To disseminate, cells use a complex and multistage process known as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, in which epithelial phenotype is transformed into mesenchymal phenotype. The objective of this study is to describe the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in terms of gene expression profile and somatic alterations in samples of colorectal cancer with or without peritoneal carcinomatosis. We analyzed samples taken from 38 patients with colorectal cancer (stages II-IV) and samples from 20 patients with colorectal cancer complicated by peritoneal carcinomatosis. The expression ofZEB1, ZEB2, CDH1, VIM, andSNAI1was analyzed by real-time PCR.KRAS/BRAFmutations were mapped using sequencing. Microsatellite instability was evaluated by fragment analysis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition was detected in 6 out of 38 samples of colorectal cancer (stages II-IV), 7 out of 20 tumors from patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis, and 19 out of 20 samples taken from carcinomatous nodules. Tumors of the mesenchymal subtype displayed high frequency of somatic mutations, microsatellite stability, and low degree of differentiation. The identification of epithelial-mesenchymal transition may be used as a marker of high metastatic potential, which is particularly relevant at early stages of tumor growth.
Charcot Spine and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Loriaut Philippe , Rozenberg Sylvie , Boyer Patrick , Dallaudière Benjamin , Khiami Frederic , Sariali Elhadi , Pascal-Moussellard Hugues
Published: August 2014

Charcot spine is rare condition whose association with Parkinson’s disease (PD) has not been reported yet. The authors reported the cases of two patients with PD who developed Charcot spine. Both patients presented with a history of back pain and bilateral radicular leg pain. They had complete clinical and radiological assessment. Lumbar spine was involved in both patients. Clinical features and response to treatment were described. In the first case, circumferential fusion and stabilization were performed on the dislocated vertebral levels. A solid and stable fusion of the spine was obtained with satisfactory clinical outcome. Surgical treatment has been recommended to the other patient. In both cases, no other neurological etiology was found to account for Charcot spine. In conclusion, Charcot spine is associated with several neurological affections but has not previously been reported in association with Parkinson’s disease.
Best Approximations in Hardy Spaces on Infinite-Dimensional Unitary Matrix Groups
Authors: Lopushansky Oleh
Published: August 2014

We investigate the problem of best approximations in the Hardy space of complex functions, defined on the infinite-dimensional unitary matrix group. Applying an abstract Besov-type interpolation scale and the Bernstein-Jackson inequalities, a behavior of such approximations is described. An application to best approximations in symmetric Fock spaces is shown.
Lung Postmortem Autopsy Revealing Extramedullary Involvement in Multiple Myeloma Causing Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Ravinet Aurélie , Perbet Sébastien , Guièze Romain , Lemal Richard , Guérin Renaud , Gayraud Guillaume , Aliane Jugurtha , Tremblay Aymeric , Pascal Julien , Ledoux Albane , Chaleteix Carine , Dechelotte Pierre , Bay Jacques-Olivier , Bazin Jean-Etienne , Constantin Jean-Michel
Published: August 2014

Pulmonary involvement with multiple myeloma is rare. We report the case of a 61-year-old man with past medical history of chronic respiratory failure with emphysema, and a known multiple myeloma (Durie and Salmon stage III B and t(4;14) translocation). Six months after diagnosis and first line of treatment, he presented acute dyspnea with interstitial lung disease. Computed tomography showed severe bullous emphysema and diffuse, patchy, multifocal infiltrations bilaterally with nodular character, small bilateral pleural effusions, mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and a known lytic lesion of the 12th vertebra. He was treated with piperacillin-tazobactam, amikacin, oseltamivir, and methylprednisolone. Finally, outcome was unfavourable. Postmortem analysis revealed diffuse and nodular infracentimetric infiltration of the lung parenchyma by neoplastic plasma cells. Physicians should be aware that acute respiratory distress syndrome not responding to treatment of common causes could be a manifestation of the disease, even with negative BAL or biopsy and could be promptly treated with salvage therapy.
Microencapsulation, Chemical Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activity of Mexican (Lippia graveolensH.B.K.) and European (Origanum vulgareL.) Oregano Essential Oils
Authors: Hernández-Hernández Elvia , Regalado-González Carlos , Vázquez-Landaverde Pedro , Guerrero-Legarreta Isabel , García-Almendárez Blanca E.
Published: August 2014

The effect of solvent polarity (methanol and pentane) on the chemical composition of hydrodistilled essential oils (EO’s) ofLippia graveolensH.B.K. (MXO) andOriganum vulgareL. (EUO) was studied by GC-MS. Composition of modified starch microencapsulated EO’s was conducted by headspace-solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME). The antimicrobial activity of free and microencapsulated EO’s was evaluated. They were tested againstSalmonellasp.,Brochothrix thermosphacta,Pseudomonas fragi, Lactobacillus plantarum, andMicrococcus luteus. Thymol and carvacrol were among the main components of EO’s and their free and microencapsulated inhibitory activity was tested againstM. luteus, showing an additive combined effect. Chemical composition of EO’s varied according to the solvent used for GC analysis and to volatile fraction as evaluated by HS-SPME. Thymol (both solvents) was the main component in essential oil of MXO, while carvacrol was the main component of the volatile fraction. EUO showedα-pinene (methanol) andγ-terpinene (pentane) as major constituents, the latter being the main component of the volatile fraction. EO’s showed good stability after 3 months storage at 4°C, where antimicrobial activity of microencapsulated EO’s remained the same, while free EO’s decreased 41% (MXO) and 67% (EUO) from initial activity. Microencapsulation retains most antimicrobial activity and improves stability of EO’s from oregano.
Lower Limb Core Scale: A New Application to Evaluate and Compare the Outcomes of Bone and Soft-Tissue Tumours Resection and Reconstruction
Authors: Monticelli Andrea , Ciclamini Davide , Boffano Michele , Boux Elena , Titolo Paolo , Panero Bernardino , Battiston Bruno , Piana Raimondo , Tos Pierluigi
Published: August 2014

Several methods are used to evaluate the functional outcome of tumour resections and reconstructions in the lower limb. However, one of their most common limitations is that they are specifically developed to evaluate only oncological patients. We introduced the Lower Limb Core Scale (LLCS) to overcome this limitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and subjective results in the lower limb and to evaluate the use of the LLCS. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using various tools to investigate the outcomes. The results of the LLCS were correlated with the results of other functional tests. A total of 44 patients were included in the study. None of the demographic variables correlated with the functional or health-related quality of life (QoL) scores except for gender, whereby male patients had an increased functional score. The correlation between LLCS and other scores was positive(r2=0.77). The satisfactory QoL scores, and functional outcomes scores indicated the LLCS to be a reliable option for general and specific evaluation of lower limb reconstructions. We suggest using the LLCS for comparisons of oncological reconstructions with lower limb reconstructions in different disciplines.
Trends in the Management and Outcomes of Kidney Transplantation for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Patel Madhukar S. , Kandula Praveen , Wojciechowski David , Markmann James F. , Vagefi Parsia A.
Published: August 2014

Background.Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic disorder leading to end-stage renal failure. The objective of this study was to evaluate a longitudinal experience of kidney transplantation for ADPKD.Methods.A single center retrospective review of patients undergoing kidney transplantation was conducted, with comparisons across two time periods: early (02/2000–04/2007,n=66) and late (04/2007–08/2012,n=67).Results.Over the 13.5-year study period, 133 patients underwent transplantation for ADPKD. Overall, no significant difference between the early and late group with regard to intraoperative complications, need for reoperation, readmissions within 30 days, delayed graft function, and mortality was noted. There was a trend towards increase in one-year graft survival (early 93.1% versus late 100%,P=0.05). In the early group, 67% of recipients had undergone aneurysm screening, compared to 91% of recipients in the late group (P<0.001).Conclusions.This study demonstrates consistent clinical care with a trend towards improved rates of one-year graft survival. Interestingly, we also note a significantly higher use of cerebral imaging over time, with the majority that were detected requiring surgical intervention which may justify the current practice of nonselective radiological screening until improved screening criteria are developed.
Driver’s Fatigue Detection Based on Yawning Extraction
Authors: Alioua Nawal , Amine Aouatif , Rziza Mohammed
Published: August 2014

The increasing number of traffic accidents is principally caused by fatigue. In fact, the fatigue presents
a real danger on road since it reduces driver capacity to react and analyze information. In this paper we propose an efficient and nonintrusive system for monitoring driver fatigue using yawning extraction. The proposed scheme uses face extraction based support vector machine (SVM) and a new approach for mouth detection, based on circular Hough transform (CHT), applied on mouth extracted regions. Our system does not require any training data at any step or special cameras. Some experimental results showing system performance are reported. These experiments are applied over real video sequences acquired by low cost web camera and recorded in various lighting conditions.
The Clinicopathological Significance of MicroRNA-155 in Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zeng Hui , Fang Cheng , Nam Seungyoon , Cai Qing , Long Xinghua
Published: August 2014

Objective. Previous studies demonstrated that the associations between expression level of microRNA-155 (miR-155) and clinicopathological significance of breast cancer remained inconsistent. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis based on eligible studies to summarize the possible associations.Methods. We identified eligible studies published up to May 2014 by a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, and VIP databases. The analysis was performed with RevMan. 5.0 software.Results.A total of 15 studies were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that miR-155 was positively correlated with breast cancer with standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.22. Elevated miR-155 was found in Her-2 positive or lymph node metastasis positive, or p53 mutant type breast cancer. But the result showed to be insignificant in TNM comparison. With respect to estrogen receptor alpha (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status, both of them showed significant associations with SMD = −1.2 and −1.85, respectively.Conclusion.MiR-155 detection might have a diagnostic value in breast cancer patients. It might be used as an auxiliary biomarker for different clinicopathological breast cancer.
Study on Optimized Elman Neural Network Classification Algorithm Based on PLS and CA
Authors: Jia Weikuan , Zhao Dean , Shen Tian , Tang Yuyang , Zhao Yuyan
Published: August 2014

High-dimensional large sample data sets, between feature variables and between samples, may cause some correlative or repetitive factors, occupy lots of storage space, and consume much computing time. Using the Elman neural network to deal with them, too many inputs will influence the operating efficiency and recognition accuracy; too many simultaneous training samples, as well as being not able to get precise neural network model, also restrict the recognition accuracy. Aiming at these series of problems, we introduce the partial least squares (PLS) and cluster analysis (CA) into Elman neural network algorithm, by the PLS for dimension reduction which can eliminate the correlative and repetitive factors of the features. Using CA eliminates the correlative and repetitive factors of the sample. If some subclass becomes small sample, with high-dimensional feature and fewer numbers, PLS shows a unique advantage. Each subclass is regarded as one training sample to train the different precise neural network models. Then simulation samples are discriminated and classified into different subclasses, using the corresponding neural network to recognize it. An optimized Elman neural network classification algorithm based on PLS and CA (PLS-CA-Elman algorithm) is established. The new algorithm aims at improving the operating efficiency and recognition accuracy. By the case analysis, the new algorithm has unique superiority, worthy of further promotion.
The Generalized Inverse Generalized Weibull Distribution and Its Properties
Authors: Jain Kanchan , Singla Neetu , Sharma Suresh Kumar
Published: August 2014

The Inverse Weibull distribution has been applied to a wide range of situations including applications in medicine, reliability, and ecology. It can also be used to describe the degradation phenomenon of mechanical components. We introduce Inverse Generalized Weibull and Generalized Inverse Generalized Weibull (GIGW) distributions. GIGW distribution is a generalization of several distributions in literature. The mathematical properties of this distribution have been studied and the mixture model of two Generalized Inverse Generalized Weibull distributions is investigated. Estimates of parameters using method of maximum likelihood have been computed through simulations for complete and censored data.
Nonsurgical Management of Nifedipine Induced Gingival Overgrowth
Authors: Sam George , Sebastian Staly Chakkalakkal
Published: August 2014

Drug-induced gingival overgrowth is frequently associated with three particular drugs: phenytoin, cyclosporin, and nifedipine. As gingival enlargement develops, it affects the normal oral hygiene practice and may interfere with masticatory functions. The awareness in the medical community about this possible side effect of nifedipine is less when compared to the effects of phenytoin and cyclosporin. The frequency of gingival enlargement associated with chronic nifedipine therapy remains controversial. Within the group of patients that develop this unwanted effect, there appears to be variability in the extent and severity of the gingival changes. Although gingival inflammation is considered a primary requisite in their development, few cases with minimal or no plaque induced gingival inflammation have also been reported. A case report of gingival overgrowth induced by nifedipine in a patient with good oral hygiene and its nonsurgical management with drug substitution is discussed in this case report.
Cervical Carcinoma Manifesting as Progressive Bilateral Visual Loss
Authors: Shibeeb O’Sam , Athanasiov Paul , Simon Sumu , Gilhotra Jagjit
Published: August 2014

We report a patient with bilateral choroidal metastasis from disseminated cervical squamous cell carcinoma. A 52-year-old woman presented with progressive bilateral visual loss due to choroidal masses in both eyes. The fundus examination revealed posterior serous retinal detachment in both eyes associated with creamy choroidal lesions. A thorough systemic work-up revealed choroidal metastasis from a squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. This case highlights the importance of a thorough systemic evaluation in patients with choroidal tumours.
The Effects of the Context-Dependent Codon Usage Bias on the Structure of the nsp1αof Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Ding Yao-zhong , You Ya-nan , Sun Dong-jie , Chen Hao-tai , Wang Yong-lu , Chang Hui-yun , Pan Li , Fang Yu-zhen , Zhang Zhong-wang , Zhou Peng , Lv Jian-liang , Liu Xin-sheng , Shao Jun-jun , Zhao Fu-rong , Lin Tong , Stipkovits Laszlo , Pejsak Zygmunt , Zhang Yong-guang , Zhang Jie
Published: August 2014

The information about the crystal structure of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) leader protease nsp1αis available to analyze the roles of tRNA abundance of pigs and codon usage of thensp1αgene in the formation of this protease. The effects of tRNA abundance of the pigs and the synonymous codon usage and the context-dependent codon bias (CDCB) of thensp1αon shaping the specific folding units (α-helix,β-strand, and the coil) in the nsp1αwere analyzed based on the structural information about this protease from protein data bank (PDB: 3IFU) and thensp1αof the 191 PRRSV strains. By mapping the overall tRNA abundance along thensp1α, we found that there is no link between the fluctuation of the overall tRNA abundance and the specific folding units in the nsp1α, and the low translation speed of ribosome caused by the tRNA abundance exists in thensp1α. The strong correlation between some synonymous codon usage and the specific folding units in the nsp1αwas found, and the phenomenon of CDCB exists in the specific folding units of the nsp1α. These findings provide an insight into the roles of the synonymous codon usage and CDCB in the formation of PRRSV nsp1αstructure.
GIS Analysis of Land Cover Changes on the Territory of the Prokuplje Municipality
Authors: Valjarević Aleksandar , Živković Dragica , Valjarević Dragana , Stevanović Vladica , Golijanin Jelena
Published: August 2014

The monitoring of the territory of Prokuplje Municipality was done based on 1 : 25,000 topographic maps in three different time periods (1969, 1974, and 1984) and land cover map in 2012. Analogous topographic maps done in 1969, 1974, and 1984 were used, while in 2012 the land cover map obtained by using CORINE-like approach was used. Topographic maps are developed by aerial campaign, and today they are replaced by satellite images. Topographic maps were scanned, and raster form was transformed to vector data with Geo Media Professional 6.1 and Global Mapper software. The monitoring in the period of 1969–2012, on the area of 758300000 m2, was performed, where some parameters were analyzed. In particular, the changes of natural resources, primarily forest lands, were observed as well as the type of land susceptible to primary erosion, including the level of urbanization and level of agricultural land. The obtained results clearly showed changes in forestation within the 43-year-long period, as well as changes in primary erosion and urbanization, while at the level of agricultural land, slight changes were found. The paper also involved transition of social factors from 1969 to 2012, expressed as a change between the earth and forest layer.
Contraceptive Use in India: A Data Mining Approach
Authors: Chaurasia Aalok Ranjan
Published: August 2014

This paper uses data mining approach to analyse patterns of contraceptive use in India by comparing contraceptive use among groups of women with distinct demographic, economic, cultural, and social characteristics. The analysis suggests that currently married, nonpregnant women aged 15–49 years in India can be classified into 13 mutually exclusive groups on the basis of six characteristics of women—surviving children, household standard of living, religion, women’s years of schooling, husbands’ education, and residence. Contraceptive use pattern in these 13 groups is essentially different and reflects the orientation of family planning efforts, especially, official family planning efforts in the country. The observed differences in the patterns of contraceptive use have important policy and programme implications in the context of universal access to family planning.
Improving the Performance of Temperature Index Snowmelt Model of SWAT by Using MODIS Land Surface Temperature Data
Authors: Yang Yan , Onishi Takeo , Hiramatsu Ken
Published: August 2014

Simulation results of the widely used temperature index snowmelt model are greatly influenced by input air temperature data. Spatially sparse air temperature data remain the main factor inducing uncertainties and errors in that model, which limits its applications. Thus, to solve this problem, we created new air temperature data using linear regression relationships that can be formulated based on MODIS land surface temperature data. The Soil Water Assessment Tool model, which includes an improved temperature index snowmelt module, was chosen to test the newly created data. By evaluating simulation performance for daily snowmelt in three test basins of the Amur River, performance of the newly created data was assessed. The coefficient of determination (R2) and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) were used for evaluation. The results indicate that MODIS land surface temperature data can be used as a new source for air temperature data creation. This will improve snow simulation using the temperature index model in an area with sparse air temperature observations.
Associations of Census-Tract Poverty with Subsite-Specific Colorectal Cancer Incidence Rates and Stage of Disease at Diagnosis in the United States
Authors: Henry Kevin A. , Sherman Recinda L. , McDonald Kaila , Johnson Christopher J. , Lin Ge , Stroup Antoinette M. , Boscoe Francis P.
Published: August 2014

Background. It remains unclear whether neighborhood poverty contributes to differences in subsite-specific colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence. We examined associations between census-tract poverty and CRC incidence and stage by anatomic subsite and race/ethnicity.Methods. CRC cases diagnosed between 2005 and 2009 from 15 states and Los Angeles County (N=278,097) were assigned to 1 of 4 groups based on census-tract poverty. Age-adjusted and stage-specific CRC incidence rates (IRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated. Analyses were stratified by subsite (proximal, distal, and rectum), sex, race/ethnicity, and poverty.Results. Compared to the lowest poverty areas, CRC IRs were significantly higher in the most impoverished areas for men (IRR = 1.14 95% CI 1.12–1.17) and women (IRR = 1.06 95% CI 1.05–1.08). Rate differences between high and low poverty were strongest for distal colon (male IRR = 1.24 95% CI 1.20–1.28; female IRR = 1.14 95% CI 1.10–1.18) and weakest for proximal colon. These rate differences were significant for non-Hispanic whites and blacks and for Asian/Pacific Islander men. Inverse associations between poverty and IRs of all CRC and proximal colon were found for Hispanics. Late-to-early stage CRC IRRs increased monotonically with increasing poverty for all race/ethnicity groups.Conclusion. There are differences in subsite-specific CRC incidence by poverty, but associations were moderated by race/ethnicity.
Relationship between Autonomic Nervous System Function and Continuous Interstitial Glucose Measurement in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kalopita Stavroula , Liatis Stavros , Thomakos Petros , Vlahodimitris Ioannis , Stathi Chryssoula , Katsilambros Nicholas , Tentolouris Nicholaos , Makrilakis Konstantinos
Published: August 2014

Aims. The Aim of the present study was to examine whether there is a relationship between autonomic nervous system function and glycemic variability (GV) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).Methods. A total of 50 (29 males) patients with T2D (mean age 58.4 ± 9.9 years, median diabetes duration 5.5 [IQR 2.0–9.25] years), on oral antidiabetic agents, underwent ECG recording and subcutaneous glucose monitoring, simultaneously and continuously, for 24 hours.Results. After adjustment for HbA1c and diabetes duration, total power of heart rate variability (HRV) was inversely associated with the standard deviation of the mean interstitial tissue glucose (MITG) and with theM-value during the entire recording (r: −0.29,P=0.052;r: −0.30,P=0.047, resp.) and during the night (r: −0.29,P=0.047;r: −0.31,P=0.03, resp.). Most of the HRV time-domain indices were significantly correlated with standard deviation of the MITG and theM-value. These correlations were stronger for the HRV recordings during the night. No significant association was found between HRV parameters and MAGE.Conclusions. HRV is inversely associated with GV in patients with T2D, which might be a sign of causation between GV and autonomic dysfunction. Prospective studies are needed to further investigate the importance of GV in the pathogenesis of long-term complications of diabetes.
Investigations of the Montmorillonite and Aluminium Trihydrate Addition Effects on the Ignitability and Thermal Stability of Asphalt
Authors: Zhu Kai , Wu Ke , Wu Bin , Huang Zhiyi
Published: August 2014

By means of limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimeter, and TG-DSC tests, this paper investigated the effect of unmodified montmorillonite (MMT), organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT), and aluminium trihydrate (ATH) additions on the flame retardancy for asphalt combustion. Experimental results showed that adding a small amount of montmorillonite did not significantly increase the oxygen index of the asphalt but reduced the heat release rate during asphalt combustion. TGA tests had indicated that the montmorillonite (MMT and OMMT) could suppress the release of flammable volatiles and form more asphaltenes, which hence postponed the burnout time of asphalt. Furthermore, the combination of montmorillonite (MMT and OMMT) and ATH had yielded a synergistic effect, which had further reduced the heat release rate and also increased the oxygen index of asphalt. In particular, after further addition of OMMT, the barrier layer showed less crack, leading to a significant decrease in the heat release rate as compared to the adding of ATH alone.
The Platform Switching Approach to Optimize Split Crest Technique
Authors: Sammartino G. , Cerone V. , Gasparro R. , Riccitiello F. , Trosino O.
Published: August 2014

The split crest technique is a reliable procedure used simultaneously in the implant positioning. In the literature some authors describe a secondary bone resorption as postoperative complication. The authors show how platform switching can be able to avoid secondary resorption as complication of split crest technique.
The Acute Phase ofTrypanosoma cruziInfection Is Attenuated in 5-Lipoxygenase-Deficient Mice
Authors: Canavaci Adriana M. C. , Sorgi Carlos A. , Martins Vicente P. , Morais Fabiana R. , de Sousa Érika V. G. , Trindade Bruno C. , Cunha Fernando Q. , Rossi Marcos A. , Aronoff David M. , Faccioli Lúcia H. , Nomizo Auro
Published: August 2014

In the present work we examine the contribution of 5-lipoxygenase- (5-LO-) derived lipid mediators to immune responses during the acute phase ofTrypanosoma cruziinfection in 5-LO gene knockout (5-LO−/−) mice and wild-type (WT) mice. Compared with WT mice, the 5-LO−/−mice developed less parasitemia/tissue parasitism, less inflammatory cell infiltrates, and a lower mortality. This resistance of 5-LO−/−mice correlated with several differences in the immune response to infection, including reduced PGE2synthesis; sustained capacity of splenocytes to produce high levels of interleukin (IL)-12 early in the infection; enhanced splenocyte production of IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ; rapid T-cell polarization to secrete high quantities of IFN-γand low quantities of IL-10; and greater numbers of CD8+CD44highCD62Llowmemory effector T cells at the end of the acute phase of infection. The high mortality in WT mice was associated with increased production of LTB4/LTC4, T cell bias to produce IFN-γ, high levels of serum nitrite, and marked protein extravasation into the peritoneal cavity, although survival was improved by treatment with a cys-LT receptor 1 antagonist. These data also provide evidence that 5-LO-derived mediators negatively affect host survival during the acute phase ofT. cruziinfection.
Pediatric Neurocysticercosis: Usefulness of Antibody Response in Cysticidal Treatment Follow-Up
Authors: Atluri Venkata Subba Rao , Gogulamudi Venkateswara Reddy , Singhi Pratibha , Khandelwal Niranjan , Parasa Lakshmana Swamy , Malla Nancy
Published: August 2014

Serum and urine samples were collected from 33 NCC patients before the albendazole treatment, 3–6 and 12 months PT. At 3 months PT, 24 (72.7%) patients had no detectable CT/MRI lesions and 9 (27.2%) patients had persistent lesions. Antibody response to crude soluble extract (CSE), excretory secretory (ES), and lower molecular mass (LMM) (10–30 KDa) antigenic fraction ofT. soliumcysticerci was detected in serum and urine samples by ELISA. Before the treatment, out of 33 NCC children, 14 (42.4%), 22 (66.6%), and 11 (33.3%) serum samples were found positive with the use of CSE, ES, and LMM antigen, respectively. At 3–6 months PT, positivity rate was 5 (15.1%), 2 (6%), and 4 (12.1%) and at 12 months PT, positivity rate was 5 (15.1%), 0, and 3 (9%) with the use of CSE, ES, and LMM antigen, respectively. There was no significant difference in the positivity with the use of three antigens in pretreatment and PT urine samples. The study suggests that the use of ES antigen to detect antibody in serum samples may serve better purpose to evaluate the therapeutic response in patients with NCC.
Evaluation of Layered Graphene Prepared via Hydroxylation of Potassium‐Graphite Intercalation Compounds
Authors: Wada Takuya , Yasutake Takuya , Nakasuga Akira , Kinumoto Taro , Tsumura Tomoki , Toyoda Masahiro
Published: August 2014

Layered graphene was prepared via the hydroxylation of potassium‐graphite intercalation compound (KC8) produced from exfoliated graphite flake powder. When a small amount of water was dropped onto the KC8 in an oxygen‐free atmosphere, the stage structure of the intercalation compounds was broken, and agglomerated graphene was obtained. Sonication of this agglomerated graphene in buffered water containing sodium dodecyl sulfate followed by rinsing with hot water yielded gray samples. Using scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, and Raman spectroscopy, the gray samples were determined to be composed of a few layers of graphene with an area of 20–100 μm2 and thickness of 1.7 nm. They were thinner than those obtained when starting with natural graphite.
Pyogenic Sacroiliitis and Pyomyositis in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematous
Authors: Chebbi Wafa , Jerbi Saida , Kessomtini Wassia , Fradi Asma , Zantour Baha , Sfar Mohamed Habib
Published: August 2014

Pyogenic sacroiliitis and pyomyositis are uncommon infectious diseases and their diagnoses are often delayed. They are typically seen in children and young adults and are rare in middle-aged people especially in those affected by rheumatic diseases. We present the first case of a Staphylococcus aureus related pyogenic sacroiliitis associated with iliacus and gluteal pyomyositis occurring in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Antibiotic treatment was administered for a total of 6 weeks with a total recovery. Pyogenic sacroiliitis and pyomyositis, although remaining rare events, should be remembered as severe complications in immunosuppressed patients with inflammatory diseases. Early clinical suspicion, imaging diagnosis, and adequate therapy are decisive for the satisfactory outcome.
Choosing the Optimal Spatial Domain Measure of Enhancement for Mammogram Images
Authors: Panetta Karen , Samani Arash , Agaian Sos
Published: August 2014

Medical imaging systems often require image enhancement, such as improving the image contrast, to provide medical professionals with the best visual image quality. This helps in anomaly detection and diagnosis. Most enhancement algorithms are iterative processes that require many parameters be selected. Poor or nonoptimal parameter selection can have a negative effect on the enhancement process. In this paper, a quantitative metric for measuring the image quality is used to select the optimal operating parameters for the enhancement algorithms. A variety of measures evaluating the quality of an image enhancement will be presented along with each measure’s basis for analysis, namely, on image content and image attributes. We also provide guidelines for systematically choosing the proper measure of image quality for medical images.
Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin: A Novel Transungual Permeation Enhancer for Development of Topical Drug Delivery System for Onychomycosis
Authors: Chouhan Pradeep , Saini T. R.
Published: August 2014

The treatment of onychomycosis is a challenging task because of unique barrier properties of the nail plate which hampers the passage of antifungal drugs in a concentration required to eradicate the deeply seated causative fungi in the nail bed. In present investigation, application of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was established as an effective and nail friendly transungual drug permeation enhancer especially for poorly water soluble drugs using terbinafine hydrochloride as a poorly soluble drug. HP-β-CD significantly improves hydration of nail plates and increases solubility of terbinafine hydrochloride in the aqueous environment available therein, which leads to uninterrupted drug permeation through water filled pores of hydrogel-like structure of hydrated nail plates. A nail lacquer formulation was designed with an objective to deliver the drug in an effective concentration across nail plates, using HP-β-CD as a permeation enhancer. The formulations containing HP-β-CD showed higher flux than the control formulation in in vitro drug permeation study. The formulation containing 10% w/v of HP-β-CD showed maximum flux of 4.586±0.08 μg/mL/cm2 as compared to the control flux of 0.868±0.06 μg/mL/cm2. This finding supports application of HP-β-CD as an effective permeation enhancer for transungual delivery of terbinafine hydrochloride and possibly other poorly water soluble drugs where HP-β-CD can act as a solubilizer.
Embedded Pork Bone Causing Esophageal Perforation and an Esophagus-Innominate Artery Fistula
Authors: Berry Andrew C. , Draganov Peter V. , Patel Brijesh B. , Avalos Danny , Reuther Warren L. , Ravilla Avinash , Berry Bruce B. , Monzel Michael J.
Published: August 2014

Chronically embedded foreign bodies can lead to perforations, mediastinitis, and abscess, amongst a host of other complications. A 20-year-old mentally challenged female presented with “something stuck in her throat,” severe dysphagia, and recurrent vomiting. Initial imaging was unremarkable; however, subsequent imaging and esophagogastroduodenoscopy two weeks later revealed an embedded pork bone. Surgery was performed to remove the bone and fix the subsequent esophageal perforation and esophagus-innominate artery fistula. This case helps reinforce the urgency in removing an ingested foreign body and the ramifications that may arise with chronically embedded foreign bodies.
Sclerostin Blood Levels Before and After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Bonani Marco , Rodriguez Daniel , Fehr Thomas , Mohebbi Nilufar , Brockmann Jens , Blum Markus , Graf Nicole , Frey Diana , Wüthrich Rudolf P.
Published: August 2014

Background/Aims: Sclerostin is secreted by osteocytes. As a circulating inhibitor of the Wnt-signaling pathway it inhibits bone formation and contributes to the development of osteoporosis. Sclerostin levels are elevated in patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Since data for patients after kidney transplantation are scarce, we have prospectively measured sclerostin levels before and during the first year after renal transplantation and have examined the association of sclerostin with parameters of bone mineral metabolism and with bone mineral density. Methods: Sclerostin levels were measured by ELISA in 42 consecutive renal transplant recipients before and at defined intervals in the first year after transplantation. Bone mineral density was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: Pre-transplant serum sclerostin levels were elevated in all patients (61.8 ± 32.3 pmol/l, normal range 20-30 pmol/l). Within 15 days after transplantation and correlating with the improvement of renal function, sclerostin levels dropped to 21.0 ± 14.7 pmol/l and subsequently increased to 23.8 ± 14.9 and 28.0 ± 16.8 pmol/l after 6 and 12 months, respectively (P<0.001). A linear mixed model indicated that pre-transplant sclerostin levels (P<0.001) and time after transplantation (P<0.001) were the most important predictors for the rise of post-transplant sclerostin levels. No correlation was found between post-transplant sclerostin levels and bone mineral density. Conclusions: The rapid reduction of elevated serum sclerostin levels shortly after kidney transplantation parallels the improvement of renal function, but contrasts with the more delayed improvement of hyperparathyroidism. The normalization of both hormones could contribute to improved bone health after renal transplantation.
The Role of Physical Activity in the CKD Setting
Authors: Aucella Filippo , Valente Giuseppe Lucio , Catizone Luigi
Published: August 2014

A sedentary lifestyle contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and probably cancer in the general population; this cluster of disease may be defined the diseasome of physical inactivity. Also in CKD/ESRD patients physical activity is strikingly low. As a result of growing evidence suggestive of cardiovascular benefit among the CKD population with exercise, the National Kidney Foundation recommended counseling by nephrologists to increase patients' levels of physical activity in their guideline about management of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, to maintain the well-being and functional capacity of renal patients attention should be directed toward maintaining strength and aerobic fitness as well as focusing on renal function and anemia or other comorbidities. All CKD/ESRD patients should be counseled and regularly encouraged by nephrology and dialysis staff to increase their level of physical activity.
What Would You Like to Eat, Mr CKD Microbiota? A Mediterranean Diet, please!
Authors: Montemurno Eustacchio , Cosola Carmela , Dalfino Giuseppe , Daidone Giuseppe , De Angelis Maria , Gobbetti Marco , Gesualdo Loreto
Published: August 2014

In this review we elucidate the role of gut microbiota as the plausible missing link between food and health, focusing on chronic kidney disease (CKD). Microbiota, the microbial community harboured in the large intestine, is considered a symbiotic “supplementary organ”. It contributes to digestion, mainly through two catabolic pathways: saccharolytic (fermentation) or proteolytic (putrefaction). It also interacts with host influencing immunity, metabolism, and health status. It is believed that a balanced healthy microbiota is primarily saccharolytic and diet has a deep effect on its composition. Mediterranean Diet, UNESCO “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”, prevents cardiovascular and metabolic systemic diseases, thanks to the high supply of fibres and antioxidants. Mediterranean Diet also favours the prevalence of saccharolytic species, while Western Diet promotes the shift towards a proteolytic profile (dysbiosis). Emerging evidences highlight the association between a wide range of diseases and dysbiosis. In CKD a vicious circle exists, in which proteolytic-derived microbial metabolites (p-cresol and indoxyl sulphate), represent the main circulating uremic toxins: their accumulation worsens dysbiosis and promotes CKD progression. Gut microbiota shaping through non-pharmacologic nutritional treatments, based on Mediterranean Diet, represents an innovative approach in CKD, potentially restoring microbiota balance, ameliorating CKD conditions and slowing down disease progression.
Exercise and Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Villella Massimo , Villella Alessandro
Published: August 2014

Exercise is a physiologic stressor that has multiple beneficial effects on cardiovascular system. Currently exercise training is a class I intervention as part of a multifactorial long-term process that includes: clinical assistance, assessment of global cardiovascular risk, identification of specific objective for each cardiovascular risk factor, formulation of an individual treatment plan with multiple intervention aimed at reduction of the risk, educational programs, planning of long term follow-up. This paper reviews the evidences of benefit of exercise in the most common heart diseases and describes the role of exercise training in the cardiac rehabilitation programs.
Effects of a Multidomain Lifestyle Modification on Cognitive Function in Older Adults: An Eighteen-Month Community-Based Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Kang Soo , Lee Yunhwan , Back Joung Hwan , Son Sang Joon , Choi Seong Hye , Chung Young-Ki , Lim Ki-Young , Noh Jai Sung , Koh Sang Hyun , Oh Byoung Hoon , Hong Chang Hyung
Published: August 2014

Background: A healthy lifestyle may protect against cognitive decline. We examined outcomes in elderly individuals after 18 months of a five-group intervention program consisting of various modalities to prevent cognitive decline. Methods: We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial assessing 460 community-dwelling individuals aged 60 years and older in a geriatric community mental health center in Suwon, Republic of Korea, between 2008 and 2010. We developed an intervention program based on the principles of contingency management, which could be delivered by ordinary primary health workers. Group A (n = 81) received standard care services. Group B (n = 80) received bimonthly (once every 2 months) telephonic care management. Group C (n = 111) received monthly telephonic care management and educational materials similar to those in group B. Group D (n = 93) received bimonthly health worker-initiated visits and counseling. Group E (n = 94) received bimonthly health worker-initiated visits, counseling, and rewards for adherence to the program. Results: The primary outcome was the change in Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores from baseline to the final follow-up visit at 18 months. Group E showed superior cognitive function to group A (adjusted coefficient β = 0.99, p = 0.044), with participation in cognitive activities being the most important determining factor among several health behaviors (adjusted coefficient β = 1.04, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Engaging in cognitive activities, in combination with positive health behaviors, may be most beneficial in preserving cognitive abilities in community-dwelling older adults.