bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sterile Brain Abscess due to Juvenile Xanthogranuloma:DWI Characteristics
Authors: Kwak Ellie S. , Marrero Daniel E. , Pfannl Rolf , Erbay Sami H. 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACTJuvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is a disorder of non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis that usually displays as a self‐limiting course in children. Rare systemic involvement implies poor prognosis. Although conventional and spectroscopic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of JXG in CNS have been described, diffusion imaging of intracranial JXG has not been reported. Our case report is the first manuscript to describe diffusion restriction of a cerebral lesion seen in the setting of JXG. Since diffusion restriction has not been described in the setting of JXG but it is more commonly associated with infectious cerebral abscess, this finding has had significant impact in the management. Central nervous system (CNS) lesion of our patient has also had additional imaging features similar to typical infectious cerebral abscess. Extensive work‐up has been unrevealing any infectious source. Patient has had biopsy proven peripheral sterile abscesses. After extensive discussion with the family, brain biopsy is deferred. Intravenous steroid therapy is initiated in intensive care setting. All of the lesions have gradually responded to steroid therapy. CNS lesion has taken the longest time to clear.
High expression of EphA1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is associated with lymph node metastasis and advanced disease
Authors: Wang Jiandong , Ma Jie , Dong Yingchun , Shen Zhen , Ma Henghui , Wang Xuan , Shi Shanshan , Wu Jinrong , Lu Guangming , Peng Libo , Zhoud Xiaojun 
Published: July 2012

AbstractEph receptors play important roles in the development of cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of EphA1 and its clinicopathologic significance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The expression levels of the EphA1 transcript and protein were compared between ESCC and matched normal mucosa in the same patient. High expression levels of the EphA1 transcript and protein were detected in 25.6% (21/82) and 23.2% (19/82) of tumors compared with matched normal mucosa. The up‐regulation of EphA1 transcript in tumors was positively associated with differentiation (p = 0.002), disease stage (p = 0.034), and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.042). Increased expression of EphA1 protein in tumors was more often observed in patients with well‐differentiated tumors (p = 0.004), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.028), and advanced tumor stage (p = 0.008). EphA1 protein expression was detected in intraepithelial neoplasias as well. Decreased expression of EphA1 protein was detected in 65.2% (15/23) of samples with low‐grade neoplasia and in 85.3% (8/15) of samples with high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia. Increased staining of EphA1 protein was not detected in low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia samples, but was detected in 21.3% (2/15) of high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia samples. Taken together, our results show that EphA1 appears to be a differentiation marker for esophageal squamous cells, and its increased expression is positively associated with lymph node metastasis and advanced disease stage.
Reconstruction of the moderately atrophic edentulous maxilla with mandibular bone grafts
Authors: Cordaro Luca , Boghi Ferdinando , Mirisola di Torresanto Vincenzo , Torsello Ferruccio 
Published: July 2012

AbstractBackgroundMandibular bone grafts are used for alveolar reconstruction in partially edentulous patients. Few reports describe the use of mandibular bone for total maxillary reconstruction.AimTo describe indications to the use of extensive mandibular bone grafts for maxillary reconstructions in edentulous patients.MethodsA retrospective evaluation of a group of patients with edentulous resorbed maxillae reconstructed with mandibular bone grafts in preparation for implant placement was performed. The studied cohort consisted of 15 patients who were treated with mandibular onlay blocks and sinus augmentation with mandibular bone in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia (MG). This approach was chosen when residual bone height in the anterior maxilla was at least 8 mm combined with posterior vertical deficiency and anterior horizontal defects. Success and survival rates of the implants and prostheses together with the achievement of the planned prosthetic plan were recorded. Patients also performed an evaluation of the outcome with the aid of Visual Analog Scales. Mean follow‐up time was 19 months after prosthesis delivery.ResultsNo major surgical complications occurred at recipient or donor sites. A total of 81 implants were inserted, and survival and success rates were 97.6% and 93%, respectively. Planned prostheses could be delivered to all patients (eight overdentures and seven fixed dental prostheses).ConclusionsWith the limitations of the present clinical study, it can be stated that edentulous maxillae with a moderate atrophy may be successfully augmented with mandibular bone grafts in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia and e.v. sedation. This is the case when posterior maxillary deficiency is combined with horizontal defects, but with a residual height of 8 mm or more in the anterior maxilla. When the residual anterior bone height is less than 8 mm, or when the inter‐arch discrepancy needs to be corrected with an osteotomy, extraoral bone harvesting needs to be considered.
Castrati Singers—All for Fame
Authors: Hatzinger Martin , Vöge Dominick , Stastny Matthias , Moll Friedrich , Sohn Michael 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The phenomenon of castration is very closely associated with the baroque era. In a period that placed emphasis on pure sensual pleasure, castrati singers, with their angelic voices, were a perverted outcome of this ambition. It was the intention that these castrato voices with their supernatural sound would mesmerize audiences. At that time, it could be said that within certain society circles, an addiction to these voices existed. Equally, they were oblivious to the spiritual side of the lives of the castrati. Farinelli, Caffarelli, and Senesino, three of the most famous castrati, were the first musical superstars of the 18th century. Their voices moved decadent audiences to tears and standing ovations. The price for this fame was, however, high.

Aim
The aim of this review is to provide an overview of castrati singers, especially in the baroque era, their sexuality and the effects of castration on their physical development.

Methods
A literature search of relevant databases, books, and articles in journals was performed and compared with current data concerning androgen suppression and endocrine aspects of male sexual dysfunction.

Results
The effects of castration on physical development were notoriously erratic. Much depended on the timing of the operation: boys pruned before the age of 10 or so very often grew up with feminine features; smooth, hairless bodies, incipient breasts, infantile penis, and often a complete lack of sex drive.

Conclusion
The peak success of the castrati ended with the end of the 18th century. The last castrato was Alessandro Moreschi, a solo singer in the choir of the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican. Following the ban on castration, Pope Pius X sent him into retirement in 1912, thus putting an end to a very impressive part of the history of music.
Effects of Phenylephrine on Spontaneous Activity and L-Type Ca2+ Current in Isolated Corpus Cavernosum Myocytes
Authors: Doyle Claire , Sergeant Gerard P. , Hollywood Mark A. , McHale Noel G. , Thornbury Keith D. 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Norepinephrine is important in maintaining detumescent tone in the corpus cavernosum, although the mechanism is incompletely understood. As α-adrenoceptor-induced tone is antagonized by L-type Ca2+ channel blockers, it is usually assumed that direct modulation of this current is involved. However, the effects of α-adrenoceptor agonists have never been directly examined on L-type current in corpus cavernosum myocytes (CCSMC), leaving open other possibilities. In particular, CCSMC are now known to develop spontaneous tone via a pacemaker mechanism involving spontaneous Ca2+ waves that activate Cl- currents, causing depolarization and voltage-dependent activation of L-type channels. We hypothesized that phenylephrine modulates tone via this system, rather than by directly activating L-type channels.

Aims
Examine in freshly isolated CCSMC the effect of phenylephrine on: (i) spontaneous Cl- currents and depolarizations; (ii) cytosolic Ca2+ waves; and (iii) L-type current.

Methods
CCSMC were enzymatically dispersed from male New Zealand White rabbits for patch clamp recording and real time Ca2+ imaging.

Main Outcome Measures
Spontaneous Cl- currents, spontaneous depolarizations, cytosolic Ca2+ and L-type current.

Results
Phenylephrine enhanced the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous Cl- currents, increased the duration and frequency of spontaneous depolarizations and increased the frequency of spontaneous Ca2+ waves. These effects were blocked by 2-aminoethoxy diphenylborate (2-APB), suggesting that they were mediated by IP3-induced Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. In contrast, 2-APB had no effect on Ca2+ transients evoked by releasing stored Ca2+ with caffeine, suggesting that it had little effect on store Ca2+ content. Phenylephrine depressed L-type current by around 30%. This effect was removed by blocking with 2-APB. Notably, phenylephrine failed to enhance the current, even in the presence of 2-APB. Furthermore, the phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, had no effect on L-type current.

Conclusion
Phenylephrine effects on the corpus cavernosum are mediated by modulation of the spontaneous pacemaker mechanism, rather than by direct stimulation of L-type channels.
Microstructure Contact Studies for Skutterudite Thermoelectric Devices
Authors: Zhao Degang , Geng Haoran , Chen Lidong 
Published: July 2012

The skutterudite/electrode thermoelectric joints were fabricated with the insertion of Ti foil by spark plasma sintering. The interfacial microstructure and reliability of joints were studied during thermal duration test. A multilayer structure, which was composed of intermetallic compounds, was observed at the CoSb3/Ti interface after thermal aging of 20 days. The interfacial reactions and diffusion path between CoSb3 and Ti were discussed. The contact resistance of CoSb3/electrode junction was measured through four‐probe method and the thermal contact resistance was calculated based on multilayer mode measurement. Effects of the contact resistivity on the performance of CoSb3‐based device were discussed.
Joining of Sintered Silicon Carbide Ceramics Using Sodium Borosilicate Glass as the Solder
Authors: Luo Zhaohua , Jiang, Dongliang , Zhang Jingxian , Lin Qingling , Chen Zhongming , Huang Zhengren 
Published: July 2012

Sodium borosilicate glass powder with the Si:B:Na molar ration of 53:44:6 has been developed and used as the solder to join sintered SiC ceramics. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass matches the silicon carbide substrate well at low temperature, and the wettability of the solder on SiC substrate becomes excellent above 1150°C. The 4‐point bending strength of the joint reaches 218 ± 23 MPa at room temperature and the joint strength at 400°C can be kept at 154 ± 35 MPa. The microstructure, compositions, and interfacial properties were studied. Results showed that a good adhesion between SiC substrate and the solder layer was achieved.
Biochemical assessment of canine body cavity effusions using three bench‐top analysers
Authors: Hetzel N. , Papasouliotis K. , Dodkin S. , Murphy K. 
Published: July 2012

ObjectivesTo assess the performance of three bench‐top chemistry instruments for the analysis of canine effusions. Acceptable results were compared with those obtained by a reference chemistry analyser.MethodsTotal protein, albumin, creatinine and bilirubin concentrations were measured in 74 effusions using the VetScanVS2, VetTest8008 and SpotchemEZ analysers. Cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were also measured by the VetTest and Spotchem. Results were analysed using Westgard's error analysis, Spearman's correlation, Bland‐Altman plots and Deming regression. Results were considered acceptable when observed total error (TEobs) was less than allowable total error (TEA).ResultsVetScan error analysis revealed acceptable results for total protein (TEobs=1·11, TEA=4·7) and creatinine (TEobs=42·2, TEA=78·1). Correlation was fair for protein (rs=0·66) and creatinine (rs=0·76), but poor and not significant for bilirubin (rs=0·01, P=0·08), precluding error analysis. VetTest error analysis was acceptable for creatinine only (TEobs=5·55, TEA=25·5). Correlation was good (rs=0·81). The difference plot revealed a bias (95% confidence interval) of −1·5 (−37 to 40) and four outliers. The Spotchem did not generate a precise arithmetic value in most (56·9 to 73·6%) samples, precluding further analysis.Clinical SignificanceAcceptable results were obtained for total protein (VetScan) and creatinine [Vetscan, Vettest (with good correlation)]. The Spotchem is of limited value in canine effusion analysis.
Pandemic influenza A(H1)pdm09 in hospitals and intensive care units – results from a new hospital surveillance, Germany 2009/2010
Authors: Adlhoch Cornelia , Wadl Maria , Behnke Michael , Peña Diaz Luis Alberto , Clausmeyer Jörg , Eckmanns Tim 
Published: July 2012

Please cite this paper as: Adlhoch et al. (2012) Pandemic influenza A(H1)pdm09 in hospitals and intensive care units – results from a new hospital surveillance, Germany 2009/2010. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(601), e162–e168.Objectives  The pandemic influenza A(H1)pdm09 (PI) was introduced to Germany in April 2009. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) implemented a nationwide voluntary hospital sentinel surveillance for to assess the burden and severity of PI.Setting  Three modules were offered: a hospital module collected aggregated data from all hospital units on admissions and fatalities with and without PI; an intensive care module data on admissions, patient‐days, and ventilated patient‐days with and without PI; and a case‐based module retrieved clinical patient data of PI cases. A in‐patient with a PCR confirmation was defined as a PI case. Descriptive, trend, uni‐, and multivariable analysis were performed.Results  Between week 49/2009 and 13/2010, the hospitals reported 103 (0·07%) PI cases among 159 181 admissions and 59/16 728 (0·35%) PI‐related admissions in intensive care units (ICUs). The weekly average incidence decreased in hospitals by 21·5% and in ICUs by 19·2%. In ICUs, 1848/85 559 (2·2%) patient‐days were PI‐related, 94·8% of those with mechanical ventilation. Case‐based data on 43 recovered and 16 fatal PI cases were reported. Among recovered, 61% were admitted to ICUs, 51% were mechanically ventilated, and 16% received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). All fatal cases were admitted to ICUs and received mechanical ventilation, 75% ECMO. Fatal outcome was rather associated with complications than with underlying medical conditions.Conclusion  The surveillance started shortly after the PI peak, which explains the small number of PI cases. The burden of PI disease was low, but higher in ICUs with a high proportion of severe cases needing ventilation and ECMO treatment. A continuous hospital surveillance system could be helpful to measure the burden of severe community‐acquired infections.
Inhibitory effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on fatty liver: Regulation of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a and fatty acid metabolism
Authors: Wang Shi Dong , Xie Zuo Quan , Chen Jia , Wang Ke , Wei Ting , Zhao Ai Hua , Zhang Qing Hua 
Published: July 2012

ObjectiveTo investigate the potential effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) on the prevention and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).MethodsMale Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (the control group, GBE group, high‐fat diet [HFD] group and HFD + GBE group). The human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2) was treated with GBE and its flavonoid ingredients. The fatty acid composition of the rat liver was analyzed with gas chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC/TOFMS). Triglyceride contents of both the rat liver and HepG2 cells were measured by enzymatic colorimetric method. The expressions of fatty acid metabolism‐related genes were analyzed with real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The protein expression and enzymatic activity were subsequently measured.ResultsIn rat livers, GBE reduced the elevations of hepatic triglyceride contents caused by HFD and the increased hepatic fatty acids were differentially affected by GBE. Notably, the expression and total activity of the fatty acid β‐oxidation rate‐limiting enzyme, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a (CPT1A), were also promoted with GBE ingestion. In HepG2 cells, GBE and its ingredients, quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin, could decrease the cellular triglyceride content and upregulate the expression and total activity of CPT1A, respectively.ConclusionsThe triglyceride‐lowering effect of GBE on the HFD rat liver is closely associated with the increased expression and activity of CPT1A, and the flavonoid ingredients are the major contributors of GBE.
Simultaneous resection of abdominal cancer and synchronous pancreaticoduodenal metastasis: Indications and literature review
Authors: Tan Jing Wang , Wang Hong Dong , Hu Ben Shun , Chen Ke , Xu Hong Bin , Chen Fei , Tan Yun Chang , Dong Jia Hong 
Published: July 2012

ObjectiveThis study was aimed to identify the potential indications for simultaneous resection of abdominal cancer and synchronous pancreaticoduodenal metastasis (SRAPM) and improve the efficacy of SRAPM.MethodsThe data of 34 patients who underwent SRAPM were retrospectively reviewed. The intraoperative findings, morbidity and mortality, patterns of tumor invasion in the pancreas and duodenum, lymph node metastases, long‐term outcomes and causes of death were evaluated.ResultsFourteen patients (41.2%) developed complications, and 2 died of pancreatic fistulas with abdominal bleeding. The in‐hospital mortality was 5.9%. The overall 1‐year, 2‐year and 3‐year survival rates were 52.9%, 32.3% and 21.8%, respectively. The survival rates depended on the primary tumor, the invasion pattern, the presence of metastatic lymph nodes at the paraaortic site and the presence of residual tumor. The follow‐up outcomes revealed that the main causes of death were as follows: systemic metastasis (n = 7), peritoneal metastasis (n = 6) and intrahepatic metastasis (n = 6).ConclusionsSRAPM is indicated for low‐grade malignant tumors and in cases with direct invasion of the pancreaticoduodenum. The presence of metastatic lymph nodes at the paraaortic site, intrahepatic metastasis, micro‐peritoneal metastasis, and distinct metastasis should be contraindications for the surgical procedure.
Evolved polygenic herbicide resistance in Lolium rigidum by low‐dose herbicide selection within standing genetic variation
Authors: Busi Roberto , Neve Paul , Powles Stephen 
Published: July 2012

AbstractThe interaction between environment and genetic traits under selection is the basis of evolution. In this study, we have investigated the genetic basis of herbicide resistance in a highly characterized initially herbicide‐susceptible Lolium rigidum population recurrently selected with low (below recommended label) doses of the herbicide diclofop‐methyl. We report the variability in herbicide resistance levels observed in F1 families and the segregation of resistance observed in F2 and back‐cross (BC) families. The selected herbicide resistance phenotypic trait(s) appear to be under complex polygenic control. The estimation of the effective minimum number of genes (NE), depending on the herbicide dose used, reveals at least three resistance genes had been enriched. A joint scaling test indicates that an additive‐dominance model best explains gene interactions in parental, F1, F2 and BC families. The Mendelian study of six F2 and two BC segregating families confirmed involvement of more than one resistance gene. Cross‐pollinated L. rigidum under selection at low herbicide dose can rapidly evolve polygenic broad‐spectrum herbicide resistance by quantitative accumulation of additive genes of small effect. This can be minimized by using herbicides at the recommended dose which causes high mortality acting outside the normal range of phenotypic variation for herbicide susceptibility.
Effective Sceptical Hypotheses
Authors: REYNOLDS STEVEN L. 
Published: July 2012

AbstractThe familiar Cartesian sceptical arguments all involve an explanation of our experiences. An account of the persuasive power of the sceptical arguments should explain why this is so. This supports a diagnosis of the error in Cartesian sceptical arguments according to which they mislead us into regarding our perceptual beliefs as if they were justified as inferences to the best explanation. I argue that they have instead a perceptual justification that does not involve inference to the best explanation and that should not be put in doubt by the sceptical hypotheses.
Is Perception a Source of Reasons?
Authors: ECHEVERRI SANTIAGO 
Published: July 2012

AbstractIt is widely assumed that perception is a source of reasons (SR). There is a weak sense in which this claim is trivially true: even if one characterizes perception in purely causal terms, perceptual beliefs originate from the mind's interaction with the world. When philosophers argue for (SR), however, they have a stronger view in mind: they claim that perception provides pre‐ or non‐doxastic reasons for belief. In this article I examine some ways of developing this view and criticize them. I exploit these results to formulate a series of constraints that a satisfactory account of the epistemic role of perception should fulfil. I also make a positive suggestion: coherentists are right when they claim that only beliefs can be reasons for other beliefs. Nevertheless, I depart from traditional coherentism, for I do not buy its conception of perception as bare sensation, nor explicate the justificatory status of beliefs in terms of coherence. My point is rather that, when one invokes experience to justify a belief, the justifying state must have structural features of beliefs.