bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-6 as an adipokine and myokine: the regulatory role of cytokine in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle metabolism
Authors: Lutosławska Grażyna 
Published: February 2013

PurposeInterleukin-6 (IL-6) belongs to the IL-6-type cytokine family, which, besides IL-6, comprises of IL-11, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), oncostatin M (OSM), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), cardiotrophin-1 (CT) and cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CLC). The metabolic effects of IL-6 differ markedly depending on the nature of the target cell with positive action on nerve cells’ differentiation and hematopoesis, but negative in the etiology of autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. In a target cell, IL-6 can simultaneously generate functionally distinct or sometimes contradictory signals depending on the in vivo environment, and the final physiological effect is a consequence of the orchestration of the diverse signals. Thus, its physiological effects are characterized by pleiotropy and redundancy. At present, it has been well documented that in obese individuals, IL-6, as an adipokine secreted into circulation by adipose tissue in proportion to body fat content and an elevated level of the cytokine in the plasma, adversely affects insulin signaling and glucose disposal in skeletal muscles and liver. Moreover, several lines of evidence indicated that IL-6 is a myokine synthesized in skeletal muscle and secreted into the bloodstream in response to exercise. In this way muscular work has a potential to stimulate adipose tissue lipolysis and provides an energy to working muscle. Furthermore, muscle-originated IL-6 acts locally, positively affecting intramuscular fat utilization. It has also been postulated that IL-6 is inevitable for satellite cell stimulation and muscle hypertrophy and repair.
Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Eclipta Alba as a Reversal Agent in Boric Acid Induced Male Reproductive Toxicity
Authors: Nair Pooja , Vora Nidhi , Purandhar Kaveri , Kamle Vishal , Seshadri Sriram 
Published: February 2013

AbstractBoric acid administration has a detrimental effect on reproductive organs, livers, and kidneys in rats. In the present study, male Wistar rats were orally fed with boric acid at a dose regimen of 350 mg/kg bodyweight for a period of 30 days, followed by oral administration of hydroalcoholic extract of Eclipta alba at a dose regimen of 500 mg/kg body weight orally for 60 days. The boric acid treated group showed signs of toxicity, such as liver damage, nephropathy, and complete damage to the testis, as early as 15 days which became aggravated by 30 days of the boric acid study period. Oxidative stress in all of the vital organs showed a significant increase. Following the plant extract treatment, complete reversal in reproductive toxicity was observed. The hormonal levels viz., testosterone, estrogen, and FSH returned to normal ranges after the 60 days of plant extract treatment. Significant reversal comparable to the control groups was observed in oxidative stress in the vital tissues. The fertility of the rats was found to be restored. The altered tissue morphology showed significant signs or recovery as observed under light microscopic examination. Thus, overall recovery was observed in the boric acid treated rats which received treatment with the plant extract. It can be concluded that Boric acid definitely has detrimental effects on the male reproductive system and the plant extract showed promising results. However, the mode of action and the active components for the same needs to be further investigated.
Determination of the Resilient modulus MR for the lime stabilized clay obtained from the repeated loading CBR tests
Authors: Sas Wojciech , Głuchowski Andrzej , Szymański Alojzy 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
Determination of the Resilient modulusMR for the lime stabilized clay obtained from therepeated loading CBR tests. The main aim of this paper is to prove that CBR repeated test is useful to give an adequate like unconfi ned cyclic triaxial test parameters for design the pavement and subgrade soils. That parameter is the Resilient modulus (MR) which is the elastic modulus based on the recoverable strain under repeated load. Resilient modulus (MR), is an important parameter which characterizes the subgrade’s ability to withstand repetitive stresses under traffic loadings. The 1993 AASHTO guide for design of flexible pavements recommends the use of MR. The additional aim is connected with the concept of sustainable development. For many countries, where resources are at premium, it is very important that stabilized local soil can be used for road construction. For ensuring that stabilized clay can be used for pavement material standard compaction, CBR and repeated CBR tests were performed. In that paper parameter MRof the subgrade lime stabilized clay soil by laboratory CBR repeated test were determined using for calculation formulas from triaxial cyclic test. Based on AASHTO empirical equation the static CBR values using back analysis was also calculated. Finally both values of CBR determined and calculated were compared.
The boundary integral method for the D.C. geoelectric problem in the 3-layered earth with a prismoid inhomogeneity in the second layer
Authors: Hvoždara Milan 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
The paper presents algorithm and numerical results for the boundary integral equations (BIE) method of the forward D.C. geoelectric problem for the three-layered earth which contains the prismoidal body with sloped faces in the second layer. This situation occurs in the sedimentary basins. Although the numerical calculations are more complicated in comparison with faces orthogonal to the x, y, z axes, the generalization to the sloped faces enables treatment of the anomalous fields for the bodies of more general shapes as rectangular prisms. The graphs with numerical results present isoline maps of the perturbing potential as well as the resistivity profiles when the source field is due to the pair of D.C. electrodes at the surface of the earth. Also presented apparent resistivity curves for the Schlumberger array AMNB sounding.
Access Pricing Under Imperfect Competition Reconsidered
Authors: Staněk Rostislav , Kvasnička Michal 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
This paper claims that Onemli’s results published in “Access Pricing under Imperfect Competition”, Review of Economic Perspectives, 2012, are incorrect. Contrary to Onemli, we claim that in an industry, where a monopoly incumbent produces a key input used by itself and its competitors on a downstream market which is Cournot oligopoly, the regulator should set the second-best access charge such that the incumbent’s total profit is zero if the first-best access charge is not feasible. The competitors’ ability to produce the key input themselves does not change the outcome since no competitor chooses to use this option under this regulation. We also discuss some limitations of the Onemli’s model.
Study on Customer Satisfaction with Facilities Management Services in Lithuania
Authors: Lepkova Natalija , Žūkaitė-Jefimovienė Giedrė 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACTThe article introduces the concept and content of facilities management (FM) services. Thepaper presents the concept of customer satisfaction and discusses the key factors whichinfluence the opinions of customers and their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with theservices provided. The article presents two studies: a brief survey of several FM serviceproviders and a survey of customer satisfaction with FM services in Lithuania. Theconclusions are given at the end of the article.
Estimation of Modal Dampings for Unmeasured Modes
Authors: Pápai Ferenc , Adhikari Sondipon , Wang Bor-Tsuen 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACTDamping effects are of great interest for structural analysis and evaluations. Structuralmodal damping characteristics can be obtained from experiments. This paper introducesnew possibilities for the modelling of the damping of a dynamic system with classical normalmodes and provides an overview of the known methods for formulating a damping matrixbase with experimental modal damping values. The proposed method offers an opportunityto extrapolate modal damping values for unmeasured modes by a regression method basedon the measured modal properties. The points of view on the choice of an analytical formfor damping regression functions are examined. An analytical form of regression functionscan be chosen as the modal decay rate versus the square of the frequency or the modaldamping ratio versus the frequency. Damping regressions can be performed based ona group of typical vibration modes, such as bending, torsion and lateral, symmetrical oranti-symmetrical modes. The regression data obtained for the damping constants can thenbe applied in a finite element model for further structural analysis.
An exploratory prospective study of young people's drinking during a holiday
Authors: Hesse Morten , Tutenges Sébastien , Pedersen Mads Uffe , Kofoed Pernille Bouteloup 
Published: February 2013

Background Heavy drinking and drug use is increasingly recognised as a problem in relation to holidays at nightlife resorts. However, studies conducted on the subject to date have relied on retrospective accounts of drinking, and little is known about the course of drinking, consequences and experiences during such holidays. Methods A prospective study was carried out in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, of 112 Danish tourists aged 16 to 25 years, 68% of whom were male. Participants completed questionnaires within one day of arrival at the resort, and subsequently on days 3 and 5 of the holiday. Results The response rate was adequate, with 81% providing complete data on all three occasions, and 93% providing complete data on at least two of the three occasions. During the holiday, participants cut down on their drinking significantly. Men drank more than women. The group of people with whom individuals travelled had a significant influence on their drinking. We also analysed predictors of several adverse outcomes. Individuals who travelled for the purpose of socialising drank more, whereas those who travelled to participate in sports activities drank less. Conclusion The study demonstrates the efficaciousness of prospective surveys as a methodology for onsite monitoring of substance use and other behaviours of young people during holidays. The study showed that young people drink like the members of the group they are with, but experience the consequences of drinking independently.
Twelve-month results of a clinical pilot study utilizing pedicle-lengthening osteotomy for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Mlyavykh Sergey , Ludwig Steven C. , Mobasser Jean-Pierre , Kepler Christopher K. , Anderson D. Greg 
Published: February 2013

Object
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a common condition that leads to significant disability, particularly in the elderly. Current therapeutic modalities for LSS have certain drawbacks when applied to this patient population. The object of this study was to define the 12-month postoperative outcomes and complications of pedicle-lengthening osteotomies for symptomatic LSS.

Methods
A prospective, single-treatment clinical pilot study was conducted. A cohort of 19 patients (mean age 60.9 years) with symptomatic LSS was treated by pedicle-lengthening osteotomy procedures at 1 or 2 levels. All patients had symptoms of neurogenic claudication or radiculopathy secondary to LSS and had not improved after a minimum 6-month course of nonoperative treatment. Eleven patients had a Meyerding Grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis in addition to LSS. Clinical outcomes were measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ), 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and a visual analog scale (VAS). Procedural variables, neurological outcomes, adverse events, and radiological imaging (plain radiographs and CT scans) were collected at the 1.5-, 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month time points.

Results
The pedicle-lengthening osteotomies were performed through percutaneous approaches with minimal blood loss in all cases. There were no operative complications. Four adverse events occurred during the follow-up period. Clinically, significant improvement was observed in the mean values of each of the outcome scales (comparing preoperative and 12-month values): ODI scores improved from 52.3 to 28.1 (p < 0.0001); the ZCQ physical function domain improved from 2.7 to 1.8 (p = 0.0021); the SF-12 physical component scale improved from 27.0 to 37.9 (p = 0.0024); and the VAS score for leg pain while standing improved from 7.2 to 2.7 (p < 0.0001). Imaging studies, reviewed by an independent radiologist, showed no evidence of device subsidence, migration, breakage, or heterotopic ossification. Thin-slice CT documented healing of the osteotomy site in all patients at the 6-month time point and an increase in the mean cross-sectional area of the spinal canal of 115%.

Conclusions
Treatment of patients with symptomatic LSS with a pedicle-lengthening osteotomy procedure provided substantial enlargement of the area of the spinal canal and favorable clinical results for both disease-specific and non–disease-specific outcome measures at the 12-month time point. Future studies are needed to compare this technique to alternative therapies for lumbar stenosis.
Strategies to maximize resection of complex, or high surgical risk, low-grade gliomas
Authors: Wilden Jessica A. , Voorhies Jason , Mosier Kristine M. , O'Neill Darren P. , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A. 
Published: February 2013

Object
Early and aggressive resection of low-grade gliomas (LGGs) leads to increased overall patient survival, decreased malignant progression, and better seizure control. This case series describes the authors' approach to achieving optimal neurological and surgical outcomes in patients referred by outside neurosurgeons for stereotactic biopsy of tumors believed to be complex or a high surgical risk, due to their diffuse nature on neuroimaging and their obvious infiltration of functional cortex.

Methods
Seven patients underwent individualized neuroimaging evaluation preoperatively, which included routine brain MRI with and without contrast administration for intraoperative neuronavigation, functional MRI with speech and motor mapping, diffusion tensor imaging to delineate white matter tracts, and MR perfusion to identify potential foci of higher grade malignancy within the tumor. Awake craniotomy with intraoperative motor and speech mapping was performed in all patients. Tumor removal was initiated through a transsylvian approach for insular lesions, and through multiple corticotomies in stimulation-confirmed noneloquent areas for all other lesions. Resection was continued until neuronavigation indicated normal brain, cortical or subcortical stimulation revealed functional cortex, or the patient began to experience a minor neurological deficit on intraoperative testing.

Results
Gross-total resection was achieved in 1 patient and subtotal resection (> 80%) in 6 patients, as assessed by postoperative MRI. Over the average follow-up duration of 31 months, no patient experienced a progression or recurrence. Long-term seizure control was excellent in 6 patients who achieved Engel Class I outcomes. Neurologically, all 7 patients experienced mild temporary deficits or seizures that completely resolved, and 1 patient continues to have mild expressive aphasia.

Conclusions
Significant resection of diffuse, infiltrating LGGs is possible, even in presumed eloquent cortex. Aggressive resection maximizes seizure control and does not necessarily cause permanent neurological deficits. Individualized preoperative neuroimaging evaluation, including tractography and awake craniotomy with intraoperative speech and motor mapping, is an essential tool in achieving these outcomes.
Molecular genetics of low-grade gliomas: genomic alterations guiding diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. 11th Annual Frye-Halloran Brain Tumor Symposium
Authors: Jones Pamela S. , Dunn Gavin P. , Barker Fred G. , Curry William T. , Hochberg Fred H. , Cahill Daniel P. 
Published: February 2013

Object
The authors' goal was to review the current understanding of the underlying molecular and genetic mechanisms involved in low-grade glioma development and how these mechanisms can be targets for detection and treatment of the disease and its recurrence.

Methods
On October 4, 2012, the authors convened a meeting of researchers and clinicians across a variety of pertinent medical specialties to review the state of current knowledge on molecular genetic mechanisms of low-grade gliomas and to identify areas for further research and drug development.

Results
The meeting consisted of 3 scientific sessions ranging from neuropathology of IDH1 mutations; CIC, ATRX, and FUBP1 mutations in oligodendrogliomas and astrocytomas; and IDH1 mutations as therapeutic targets. Sessions consisted of a total of 10 talks by international leaders in low-grade glioma research, mutant IDH1 biology and its application in glioma research, and treatment.

Conclusions
The recent discovery of recurrent gene mutations in low-grade glioma has increased the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in a host of biological activities related to low-grade gliomas. Understanding the role these genetic alterations play in brain cancer initiation and progression will help lead to the development of novel treatment modalities than can be personalized to each patient, thereby helping transform this now often-fatal malignancy into a chronic or even curable disease.
Intraoperative cortical mapping of visuospatial functions in parietal low-grade tumors: changing perspectives of neurophysiological mapping
Authors: Talacchi Andrea , Squintani Giovanna Maddalena , Emanuele Barbara , Tramontano Vincenzo , Santini Barbara , Savazzi Silvia 
Published: February 2013

Object
The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of intraoperative visuospatial mapping with the same criteria currently used to define essential language areas.

Methods
The authors compared surgical procedures in 2 patients with similar tumors (Grade II oligodendroglioma in the right parietal lobe) undergoing awake, image-assisted surgery for lesion removal with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. The line bisection task was used in both patients but with different criteria.

Results
In the first case, the authors respected any area, even within the tumor, where significant interference was found (a stimulation-induced error in 2 of 3 applications defined an essential area). In the second case, they removed 1 essential area located in the tumor and recorded an uneventful clinical response soon thereafter. They continued to monitor the patient without stimulation and stopped the resection when the patient was close to the criteria valid for defining spatial neglect. The signs of spatial neglect were present for 3 days postoperatively and then cleared spontaneously. Subtotal tumor removal was achieved in both cases.

Conclusions
Evidence in the present study reveals that areas for visuospatial functions cannot be assessed with the same criteria used for language functions, since essential areas located in the tumor can be safely removed.
Long-term ongoing cortical remodeling after contralateral C-7 nerve transfer
Authors: Hua Xu-Yun , Liu Bin , Qiu Yan-Qun , Tang Wei-Jun , Xu Wen-Dong , Liu Han-Qiu , Xu Jian-Guang , Gu Yu-Dong 
Published: February 2013

Object
Contralateral C-7 nerve transfer was developed for the treatment of patients with brachial plexus avulsion injury (BPAI). In the surgical procedure the affected recipient nerve is connected to the ipsilateral motor cortex, and the dramatic peripheral alteration may trigger extensive cortical reorganization. However, little is known about the long-term results after such specific nerve transfers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term cortical adaptive plasticity after BPAI and contralateral C-7 nerve transfer.

Methods
In this study, 9 healthy male volunteers and 5 male patients who suffered from right-sided BPAI and had undergone contralateral C-7-transfer more than 5 years earlier were included. Functional MRI studies were used for the investigation of long-term cerebral plasticity.

Results
The neuroimaging results suggested that the ongoing cortical remodeling process after contralateral C-7 nerve transfer could last for a long period; at least for 5 years. The motor control of the reinnervated limb may finally transfer from the ipsilateral to the contralateral hemisphere exclusively, instead of the bilateral neural network activation.

Conclusions
The authors believe that the cortical remodeling may last for a long period after peripheral rearrangement and that the successful cortical transfer is the foundation of the independent motor recovery.
Moyamoya syndrome associated with neurofibromatosis Type 1: perioperative and long-term outcome after surgical revascularization
Authors: Koss McKenzie , Scott R. Michael , Irons Mira B. , Smith Edward R. , Ullrich Nicole J. 
Published: February 2013

Object
Children with neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) can present with progressive arteriopathy of the branches of the internal carotid artery consistent with moyamoya syndrome. Clinical symptoms, radiographic evidence of ischemia, and the potential for disease progression may necessitate surgical revascularization to minimize the risk of stroke and progressive neurological deficits. This study aims to evaluate the presentation and surgical outcomes of these patients by reviewing clinical, radiographic, and angiographic data.

Methods
A retrospective review was conducted of clinical and radiographic records of all children with NF1 who were diagnosed with moyamoya syndrome and underwent surgical revascularization between January 1988 and April 2012 at Boston Children's Hospital.

Results
During this period, 39 patients (27 female and 12 male, ages 0.2–19.3 years) had both NF1 and moyamoya syndrome, of whom 32 underwent surgical revascularization with pial synangiosis. Of the 32 patients treated by surgical revascularization, 21 (66%) manifested ischemic symptoms and 18 (56%) had radiographic evidence of prior stroke at the time of moyamoya diagnosis. In total, 25 of 32 patients developed neurological symptoms prior to surgical intervention. Only 1 patient presented with hemorrhage. The average age at first surgery was 8.1 years (range 0.5–15.6 years). Perioperative complications in the first 7 days included stroke (n = 2), transient ischemic attack (n = 1), and infection (n = 1). Twenty-two patients had more than 6 months of follow-up, with an average clinical and radiographic postoperative follow-up period of 80.2 months (range 9.4–257.1 months). Of those patients with long-term follow-up, 21 (95%) of 22 demonstrated stable or improved neurological status despite radiographic evidence of moyamoya progression in 48% of patients.

Conclusions
Children with NF1-associated moyamoya syndrome are often diagnosed prior to development of fixed neurological deficits as a consequence of imaging studies obtained for other manifestations of NF1. The clinical, radiographic, and angiographic features in this population are comparable to primary moyamoya disease, with the exception of patients treated with cranial irradiation, who may be at greater risk for both stroke as well as perioperative complications. Despite radiographic evidence of progressive stenosis in 48% of patients, nearly all demonstrated stable or improved neurological status after surgical revascularization. Surgical revascularization for children with NF1 appears safe and is protective against further ischemic and neurological damage, with a 27-fold reduction in stroke rate.