MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Gastroenterology Research and Practice' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:28:16 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545066&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Foci%2F2011%2F295491%2F The behavior of 2-ethoxy-4-chloroquinazoline 2 towards various nitrogen nucleophiles, namely: thiosemicarbazide, sodium azide, glucosamine, ethanol, and hydrazine hydrate has been discussed. Also, the behavior of 4-(2-ethoxyquinazolin-4-yl)thiosemicarbazide towards one-carbon, for example, ethyl chloroformate, and two-carbon donors, for example, ethyl chloroacetate and diethyl oxalate has been investigated. On the other hand, new 5-ethoxy-2-substituted[1,2,4]-triazolo-[1,5-c]quinazoline derivatives have been obtained by ring closure accompanied with Dimroth rearrangement through the interaction of compound 2 with hydrazides of acetic, benzoic, crotonic, cinnamic, 2-furoic, and phthalimidoacetic acids. Structures of the novel products were confirmed by elemental, IR, MS, and 1H-NMR spectral... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545066 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:50:01 +0100 5545066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545065&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fapc%2F2011%2F864714%2F Structural studies are largely performed without taking into account vibrational effects or with incorrectly taking them into account. The paper presents a first-order perturbation theory analysis of the problem. It is shown that vibrational effects introduce errors on the order of 0.02 Å or larger (sometimes, up to 0.1-0.2 Å) into the results of diffraction measurements. Methods for calculating the mean rotational constants, mean-square vibrational amplitudes, vibrational corrections to internuclear distances, and asymmetry parameters are described. Problems related to low-frequency motions, including torsional motions that transform into free rotation at low excitation levels, are discussed. The algorithms described are implemented in the program available from th... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545065 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:50:01 +0100 5545065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545064&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fheprt%2F2011%2F972759%2F Conclusion. Hepascore has a high value in diagnosis of the level of fibrosis, particularly cirrhosis. Therefore, it can be used for primary screening of patients to determine the need for liver biopsy. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545064 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:50:01 +0100 5545064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545063&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijap%2F2011%2F541734%2F This paper examines the binary Fresnel zone plate (FZP) lens frequency-harmonic and space-resolution focusing, and its application as a FZP lens antenna. A microwave FZP lens antenna (FZPA) radiates both at design (90 GHz) and terahertz (THz) odd harmonic frequencies. Frequency and space domain antenna operation are studied analytically by use of the vector diffraction integral applied to a realistic printed FZPA. It is found that all harmonic gain peaks are roughly identical in form, bandwidth, and top values. At each harmonic frequency, the FZPA has a beamwidth that closely follows the Rayleigh resolution criterion. If the lens/antenna resolution is of prime importance and the small aperture efficiency is a secondary problem the microwave-design FZP lens antenna can be of great us... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545063 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:50:01 +0100 5545063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545062&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Farch%2F2011%2F867406%2F (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545062 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:50:01 +0100 5545062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526066&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjb%2F2011%2F353102%2F In India, among nonedible oilseed crops, linseed is a commercial crop having tremendous economic and industrial importance. The seed production is low due to limited resources, so the development of high-yielding lines with desirable characters is urgently needed. In the present study seven parents' half diallel data was subjected to biplot analysis to identify the heterotic crosses, genetically similar parents, and to study their interrelationship. Parent Sln-Ys with A-79 and A-03 with A-79 for capsules per plant and seed yield, parent Mukta with Sln-Ys and Mukta with BAU-45 for seeds per capsule, and parents Mukta, A-103, A-79 and A-94 for test weight had lowest correlation. Parent B [Mukta] and F [A-79] were good general combiner for all the traits. The crosses F [A-79] &#x20... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526066 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:37:26 +0100 5526066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526065&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fophmed%2F2011%2F645089%2F A 53-year-old man was attended to the Clinic Ophthalmic Center, Mansoura University, Egypt, with recurrent transient monocular visual loss after receiving sildenafil citrate (Viagra) for erectile dysfunction. Examination for possible risk factors revealed mild hypercholesterolemia. Family history showed that his father had suffered from bilateral nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Physicians might look for arteriosclerotic risk factors and family history of NAION among predisposing risk factors before prescribing sildenafil erectile dysfunction drugs. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526065 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:37:26 +0100 5526065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526064&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F842805%2F The objective of this study is to present a brief survey on the geometrically nonlinear free vibrations of the Bernoulli-Euler, the Rayleigh, shear, and the Timoshenko beams with simple end conditions using the Homotopy Analysis Method (HAM). Expressions for the natural frequencies, the transverse deflection, postbuckling load-deflection relation to, and critical buckling load are presented. The results of nonlinear analysis are validated with the published results, and excellent agreement is observed. The effects of some parameters, such as slender ratio, the rotary inertia, and the shear deformation, are examined as other parameters are fixed. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526064 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:37:26 +0100 5526064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5487788&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijad%2F2011%2F832379%2F The genetics of late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) has taken impressive steps forwards in the last few years. To date, more than six-hundred genes have been linked to the disorder. However, only a minority of them are supported by a sufficient level of evidence. This review focused on such genes and analyzed shared biological pathways. Genetic markers were selected from a web-based collection (Alzgene). For each SNP in the database, it was possible to perform a meta-analysis. The quality of studies was assessed using criteria such as size of research samples, heterogeneity across studies, and protection from publication bias. This produced a list of 15 top-rated genes: APOE, CLU, PICALM, EXOC3L2, BIN1, CR1, SORL1, TNK1, IL8, LDLR, CST3, CHRNB2, SORCS1, TNF, and CCR2. A systematic an... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5487788 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:09:00 +0100 5487788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5487787&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjcse%2F2011%2F413074%2F This work presents a vision based system for navigation on a vertical takeoff and landing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This is a monocular vision based, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) system, which measures the position and orientation of the camera and builds a map of the environment using a video stream from a single camera. This is different from past SLAM solutions on UAV which use sensors that measure depth, like LIDAR, stereoscopic cameras or depth cameras. Solution presented in this paper extends and significantly modifies a recent open-source algorithm that solves SLAM problem using approach fundamentally different from a traditional approach. Proposed modifications provide the position measurements necessary for the navigation solution on a UAV. The main contributi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5487787 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:09:00 +0100 5487787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5487786&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijd%2F2011%2F548068%2F Conclusions. These results suggest that reversible effect of microgravity is oedema of face, change in taste, abnormal expression of face, teeth pain, and xerostomia. Further study will be required on large scale on long-term effects of microgravity on oral cavity to prevent the adverse effects. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5487786 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:09:00 +0100 5487786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5469629&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Foximed%2F2011%2F935160%2F In this study, we used a two step cell transformation model, to determine the role of oxidative stress in transformation induced by a mixture of arsenic-cadmium-lead. Oxidative damage and antioxidant response were determined. Metal mixture treatment induces the increase of damage markers and the antioxidant response. Loss of cell viability and increased transforming potential were observed during the promotion phase. This finding correlated significantly with generation of reactive oxygen species. Cotreatment with N-acetyl-cysteine induces effect on the transforming capacity; while a diminution was found in initiation, in promotion phase a total block of the transforming capacity was observed. Our results suggest that oxidative stress generated by metal mixture plays an important role only... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5469629 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 09:45:35 +0100 5469629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5469628&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Foximed%2F2011%2F210798%2F Conclusion. Supplementation showed an additive effect on PEH associated with increased FRAP values and decreases in systolic blood pressure and augmentation index. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5469628 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 09:45:35 +0100 5469628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5469627&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcmmm%2F2011%2F395690%2F This study analyzed meteorological, clinical and economic factors in terms of their effects on monthly ED revenue and visitor volume. Monthly data from January 1, 2005 to September 30, 2009 were analyzed. Spearman correlation and cross-correlation analyses were performed to identify the correlation between each independent variable, ED revenue, and visitor volume. Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was used to quantify the relationship between each independent variable, ED revenue, and visitor volume. The accuracies were evaluated by comparing model forecasts to actual values with mean absolute percentage of error. Sensitivity of prediction errors to model training time was also evaluated. The ARIMA models indicated that mean maximum temperature, relative humidity, rain... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5469627 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 09:45:35 +0100 5469627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5469626&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtr%2F2011%2F490783%2F Estimation and interpretation of thyroid function tests in pregnant women is of utmost importance for maternal, fetal and neonatal health. Our objective was to calculate laboratory- and geography-specific reference intervals for thyroid hormones during pregnancy in an iodine-sufficient area of the Mediterranean, Crete, Greece. This project was performed in the context of “Rhea” mother-child cohort. Fulfillment of extensive questionnaires and estimation of free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and antithyroid antibodies were performed. The reference population was defined using inclusion criteria regarding thyroidal, obstetric, and general medical status of women. Reference interval for TSH was 0.05–2.53 μIU/m... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5469626 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 09:45:35 +0100 5469626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450019&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Farch%2F2011%2F565127%2F Prolidases hydrolyze Xaa-Pro dipeptides and can also cleave the P-F and P-O bonds found in organophosphorus (OP) compounds, including the nerve agents soman and sarin. Ph1prol (PH0974) has previously been isolated and characterized from Pyrococcus horikoshii and was shown to have higher catalytic activity over a broader pH range, higher affinity for metal, and increased thermostability compared to P. furiosus prolidase, Pfprol (PF1343). To obtain a better enzyme for OP nerve agent decontamination and to investigate the structural factors that may influence protein thermostability and thermoactivity, randomly mutated Ph1prol enzymes were prepared. Four Ph1prol mutants (A195T/G306S-, Y301C/K342N-, E127G/E252D-, and E36V-Ph1prol) were isolated which had greater thermostability and improved ac... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450019 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:41:24 +0100 5450019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450018&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fddns%2F2011%2F628369%2F We consider a discrete Internet model with a single link accessed by a single source, which responds to congestion signals from the network. Firstly, the stability of the equilibria of the system is investigated by analyzing the characteristic equation. By choosing the time delay as a bifurcation parameter, we prove that Neimark-Sacker bifurcations occur when the delay passes a sequence of critical values. Then, the explicit algorithm for determining the direction of the Neimark-Sacker bifurcations and the stability of the bifurcating periodic solutions is derived. Finally, some numerical simulations are given to verify the theoretical analysis. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450018 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:41:24 +0100 5450018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450017&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecon%2F2011%2F318523%2F If an emission reduction agreement with participation of all players is not enforceable because politicians are too myopic or costs of reducing emissions are too high, strategic investments in research and development (R&D) of green technology, for example, sustainable drivetrains, can pave the way for a future treaty. Although no player will rationally reduce emissions on its own, investments in R&D by at least one player can change the strategic situation of negotiations to control emissions: emission abatement costs will decrease so that a treaty with full participation can be achieved in future periods through time consistent sustainable policies. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450017 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:41:24 +0100 5450017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450016&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnt%2F2011%2F380979%2F The conventional superhydrophobic surface offered by PTFE provides no sterilization performance and is not sufficiently repellent against organic liquids. These limit PTFE's application in the field of disinfection and result a lack of durability. N-doped TiO2 photocatalyst added PTFE composite material was developed to remedy these shortcomings. This paper reports the surface characteristics, and the bactericidal and self-cleaning performance of the newly-developed composite material. The material exhibited a contact angle exceeding 150 degrees consistent with its hydrophobicity despite the inclusion of the hydrophilic N-doped TiO2. The surface free energy obtained for this composite was 5.8 mN/m. Even when exposed to a weak fluorescent light intensity (100 lx) for 24 hours, th... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450016 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:41:24 +0100 5450016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450015&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijn%2F2011%2F702529%2F (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450015 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:41:24 +0100 5450015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5401274&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijol%2F2011%2F183047%2F Paediatric blunt laryngeal trauma is infrequently encountered; however, it can have fatal consequences if managed inappropriately. This paper provides an overview of the relatively limited literature available on the subject and highlights current controversies and recent advances in the management of these injuries. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5401274 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 09:16:36 +0100 5401274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5388534&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fhematology%2F2011%2F148482%2F A 68-year-old man was admitted to our hospital in September 2008 because of a left-sided chest pain. Bone marrow examination showed that 85.5% of leukemic cells were positive for myeloperoxidase (MPO) and were negative for esterase stain. Flow cytometric analysis (FCM) revealed the expression of CD19, CD79a, CD13, CD33, CD34, and HLA-DR on the blasts. Cytogenetic analysis of bone marrow cells using the G-banding technique demonstrated 47, XY, +X, t(4;11;7)(q21;q23;q22) in five of the 20 analyzed cells. The patient was diagnosed as having mixed biphenotypic acute leukemia according to the European Group for Immunologic Classification of Leukemia criteria. Mixed-phenotype acute leukemia is a rare, difficult to diagnose entity. Whether patients with mixed-phenotype acute leukemia should b... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5388534 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:41:51 +0100 5388534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5388533&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fsrcm%2F2011%2F352580%2F Ewing's sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are characterized by specific chromosomal translocations, which give rise to EWS-ETS chimeric proteins. These aberrant transcription factors are the main pathogenic drivers of ESFT. Elucidation of the factors influencing EWS-ETS expression and/or activity will guide the development of novel therapeutic agents against this fatal disease. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5388533 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:41:51 +0100 5388533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5388532&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Facisc%2F2011%2F416308%2F The objective function is a maximization of similarity between messages in clusters, which is defined by k-nearest neighbor algorithm. Application of genetic algorithm for solving constrained problems faces the problem of constant support of chromosomes which reduces convergence process. Therefore, for acceleration of convergence of genetic algorithm, a penalty function that prevents occurrence of infeasible chromosomes at ranging of values of function of fitness is used. After classification, knowledge extraction is applied in order to get information about classes. Multidocument summarization method is used to get the information portrait of each cluster of spam messages. Classifying and parametrizing spam templates, it will be also possible to define the thematic dependence from geograp... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5388532 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:41:51 +0100 5388532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362468&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faot%2F2011%2F989515%2F We present exemplary numerical solutions describing supercontinuum generation with an ultrashort optical pulse. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362468 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362467&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtm%2F2011%2F130976%2F Conclusion. There is a pressing need to expand the evidence base to low and middle income countries where the vast majority of sufferers from tuberculosis live. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362467 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362466&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjbb%2F2011%2F568932%2F This study provides important information about the bioactivity of frutalin and contributes to the understanding of the plant lectins cytotoxic activity. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362466 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362465&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F842183%2F The spline-interpolation-based fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm, designated as the SFFT algorithm, is proposed in the present paper to further enhance the computational speed of simulating the multivariate stochastic processes. The proposed SFFT algorithm first introduces the spline interpolation technique to reduce the number of the Cholesky decomposition of a spectral density matrix and subsequently uses the FFT algorithm to further enhance the computational speed. In order to highlight the superiority of the SFFT algorithm, the simulations of the multivariate stationary longitudinal wind velocity fluctuations have been carried out, respectively, with resorting to the SFFT-based and FFT-based spectral representation SR methods, taking into consideration that the elements of cross-p... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362465 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362464&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijde%2F2011%2F535736%2F The stationary Boussinesq equations describing the heat transfer in the viscous heat-conducting fluid under inhomogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions for velocity and mixed boundary conditions for temperature are considered. The optimal control problems for these equations with tracking-type functionals are formulated. A local stability of the concrete control problem solutions with respect to some disturbances of both cost functionals and state equation is proved. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362464 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362463&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpm%2F2011%2F849035%2F Conclusions. MMF is a safe therapeutic modality which failed to show a beneficial effect both in functional and radiological parameters in a small cohort of IPF patients. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362463 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362462&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fusr%2F2011%2F985264%2F Public housing advocates argue that the nation should expand the federal public housing program as part of an effort to increase the supply of affordable rental housing. This paper examines federal public housing construction in the largest US cities over the period 1937–1967, a period during which the public housing program was the primary program to provide low-income households with affordable rental housing. Public housing is found to depend upon the population level of the city, factors that characterize the housing stock as of 1950, the poverty level in the city, and the size of the nonwhite population in the city. The National Commission on Urban Problems (National commission on urban problems 1968, page 128) found that this supply response meant that “… the gre... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362462 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362461&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpri%2F2011%2F237217%2F Conclusion. We recommend the use of mean AgNOR count for accurate reporting of breast carcinomas, as well as prediction of ER, PR, and P53 in routine paraffin sections. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362461 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362460&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjsc%2F2011%2F497648%2F We examined the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of this ulcerative form in fourteen cases that may raise the awareness of this variant. The study included 11 males and 3 females with a mean age 31.5 ± 7.42 years. All cases were presented with large solitary ulcer with indurated base, elevated border, skin colored margin, and necrotic floor. Twelve lesions were located on the extremities and two lesions on the genital region. Histologically, the lesions showed dermal infiltrate composed of large polygonal cells with granular cytoplasm and characteristic infiltration of the dermal muscles in all cases. Immunostaining showed positive reaction for S100 (14/14), NSE (14/14), CD68 (5/14), and Vimentin (7/14) while HMB45, CK, EMA, and Desmin were negative. We hope that... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362460 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362459&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijrc%2F2011%2F648483%2F Packet classification plays a crucial role for a number of network services such as policy-based routing, firewalls, and traffic billing, to name a few. However, classification can be a bottleneck in the above-mentioned applications if not implemented properly and efficiently. In this paper, we propose PCIU, a novel classification algorithm, which improves upon previously published work. PCIU provides lower preprocessing time, lower memory consumption, ease of incremental rule update, and reasonable classification time compared to state-of-the-art algorithms. The proposed algorithm was evaluated and compared to RFC and HiCut using several benchmarks. Results obtained indicate that PCIU outperforms these algorithms in terms of speed, memory usage, incremental update capability, and preproce... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362459 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362458&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F797520%2F Although edible bird's nest (EBN) has been shown to potentiate mitogenic responses, scientific evidence of its efficacy is still limited. In addition, human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) are increasingly accepted as a source for stem cell therapy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the EBN extract (EBNE) on the proliferation of hADSCs and its action mechanisms. We found that EBNE strongly promoted the proliferation of hADSCs. In addition, EBNE-induced proliferation was found to be mediated through the production of IL-6 and VEGF, which was induced by activation of AP-1 and NF-κB. Specially, we found that production of IL-6 and VEGF was induced by EBNE. In addition, EBNE-induced production of IL-6 and VEGF was inhibited by PD98059 (a p44/42 MAPK ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362458 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362457&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faaa%2F2011%2F649248%2F We consider weighted q-Genocchi numbers and polynomials. We investigated some interesting properties of the weighted q-Genocchi numbers related to weighted q-Bernstein polynomials by using fermionic p-adic integrals on ℤp. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362457 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362456&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faans%2F2011%2F786535%2F A damage assessment procedure has been developed using artificial neural network (ANN) for prestressed concrete beams. The methodology had been formulated using the results obtained from an experimental study conducted in the laboratory. Prestressed concrete (PSC) rectangular beams were cast, and pitting corrosion was introduced in the prestressing wires and was allowed to be snapped using accelerated corrosion process. Both static and dynamic tests were conducted to study the behaviour of perfect and damaged beams. The measured output from both static and dynamic tests was taken as input to train the neural network. Back propagation network was chosen for this purpose, which was written using the programming package MATLAB. The trained network was tested using separate test data obtained ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362456 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362455&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F861436%2F Characterization for nonpremixed biodiesel/air jet flames instability is investigated by the 0-1 test for chaos and recurrence plots. Test conditions involve biodiesel from Jatropha curcas. L-fueled flames have inlet oil pressure of 0.2–0.6 MPa, fuel flow rates (Q1) of 15–30 kg/h, and combustion air flow rate (Q2) of 150–750 m3/h. This method is based on image analysis and nonlinear dynamics. Structures of flame are analyzed using an image analysis technique to extract position series which are representative of the relative change in temperature of combustion chamber. Compared with the method of maximum Lyapunov exponent, the 0-1 test succeeds in detecting the presence of regular and chaotic components in flame position series. Periodic and quasiperi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362455 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362454&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fanesthesiology%2F2011%2F379827%2F A fractured central venous catheter (CVC) with embolization of the distal fragment may lead to life-threatening complications. We had inserted a right subclavian CVC in a 68-year-old female which upon a follow-up chest X-ray appeared to have been sheared. A guidewire was inserted through the CVC until the J-tip was just beyond the tip of the CVC which were then withdrawn as a single assembly. We suspected that the tip of the guidewire might have been entrapped in the opening of the middle port, which upon withdrawal of the guidewire could have led to CVC folding upon itself and shearing. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362454 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362453&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Famse%2F2011%2F654360%2F A traditional Chinese drug “Yunnan Baiyao” is used as an additive in poly(butylenes succinate-co-bytylene terephthalate) (PBST) solution, which is a kind of biodegradable aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters, to produce microspheres with nanoporosity by electrospinning; the tunable size of nanoporosity can be controlled by changing the voltage applied in the electrospinning process. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362453 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362452&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrim%2F2011%2F802964%2F We present a case of osteomyelitis of left maxilla and zygoma with oroantral fistula in an immunocompetent adult male caused by dentogenic infection. The complete resolution of infection was gained with surgical treatment using nasal endoscope and antibiotic therapy. The aims of this paper are to illustrate diagnostic patterns, to report radiographic findings and surgical treatment using nasal endoscope in a case of osteomyelitis of maxilla and zygoma. The prognosis and cosmetic results are discussed. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362452 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362451&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijmms%2F2011%2F140259%2F We study characteristic r-lightlike submanifolds M tangent to the characteristic vector fields in an indefinite metric S-manifold, and we also discuss the existence of characteristic lightlike submanifolds of an indefinite S-space form under suitable hypotheses: (1) M is totally umbilical or (2) its screen distribution S(TM) is totally umbilical in M. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362451 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362450&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrim%2F2011%2F393568%2F A 45-year-old female suffering from severe thoracic pain was admitted to the emergency department of our hospital. Thorough clinical examination revealed paresis of the left lower limb and sensory deficit at the level of the Th4 vertebra. MRI of the thoracic spine demonstrated a lesion at the level of Th1–Th7. Despite initial improvement following i.v. corticosteroid administration, the patient's clinical status deteriorated, with recurrence of myelitis and extension of the lesion to Th12. She developed paraparesis, hyperreflexia and spasticity of both legs, symmetrical sensory deficit below Th4, and sphincter dysfunction. Differential diagnosis included infectious, metabolic, neoplastic/paraneoplastic, and ischemic causes as well as multiple sclerosis. NMO IgG was found positiv... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362450 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362449&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F489217%2F We use recent innovative solution techniques to investigate the problem of MHD viscous flow due to a shrinking sheet with a chemical reaction. A comparison is made of the convergence rates, ease of use, and expensiveness (the number of iterations required to give convergent results) of three seminumerical techniques in solving systems of nonlinear boundary value problems. The results were validated using a multistep, multimethod approach comprising the use of the shooting method, the Matlab bvp4c numerical routine, and with results in the literature. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362449 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362448&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijcc%2F2011%2F146763%2F Properties of the flame retardant urea formaldehyde (UF) board made from saw dust fibers were investigated. Flame retardant chemicals that were evaluated include boric acid (BA) and borax (BX) which were incorporated with saw dust fibers to manufacture experimental panels. Three concentration levels, (0.5, 1, and 5%) of fire retardants and 10% urea formaldehyde resin based on oven dry fiber weight were used to manufacture experimental panels. Physical and mechanical properties including water absorption, modulus of rupture (MOR), and modulus of elasticity (MOE) were determined. The results showed that water absorption and bending strength decreased as the flame retardant increased. The highest concentration of (BA + BX) enhanced the fire retardant more than the lower ones. Scanning... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362448 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362447&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijde%2F2011%2F329014%2F We study the Navier-Stokes-Nernst-Planck-Poisson system modeling the flow of electrohydrodynamics. For small initial data, the global existence, uniqueness, and asymptotic stability as time goes to infinity of self-similar solutions to the Cauchy problem of this system posed in the whole three dimensional space are proved in the function spaces of pseudomeasure type. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362447 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362446&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fija%2F2011%2F230712%2F A study was carried out to determine the response of open pollinated sunflower (Helianthus annuus L. cv. Shumos) to boron fertilizer. Spring and autumn grown plots were sprayed with boron (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mg L−1) in a randomized complete block design. The results showed that boron and green Leaf area/LAI measured at the end of seed filling were linearly related in the spring crop. In the autumn crop, the relationship between boron and dry matter yield was linear, and applications above 100 mg L−1 significantly increased dry matter compared to the control. For the autumn crop, 100, 200, and 250 mg L−1 significantly increased seed number compared to the control, but only the 150 mg L&#x02212... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362446 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362445&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fddns%2F2011%2F437156%2F Projective synchronization and generalized projective synchronization have recently been observed in the coupled hyperchaotic systems. In this paper a generalized projective synchronization technique is applied in the hyperchaotic Lorenz system and the hyperchaotic Lü. The sufficient conditions for achieving projective synchronization of two different hyperchaotic systems are derived. Numerical simulations are used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed synchronization techniques. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362445 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362444&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F514205%2F Core-shell nanomaterials based on CdSe as the core and ZnO as the shell were prepared using an aqueous route involving the use of Cd salt and NaBH4 in reaction with Se to generate CdSe in the presence of thioglycerol (TG) as a stabilizer. ZnO has been prepared at pH 12 using stronger base such as NaOH at lower concentration and by varying amounts of Zn2+ ions ranging from 2.5, 5, 25 mL, and 50 mL to prepare core-shell nanomaterials. The absorption and emission spectral features are dominated by CdSe nanoparticles with typical shift in the emission maxima red-shifted in relation to the band edges. There is an observable change in the band edge from the core as the amount of ZnO is increased. The TEM features showed the formation of the core-shell from the volume of 5&#x02009... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362444 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362443&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fije%2F2011%2F747835%2F In conclusion, we show for the first time that consumption of argan oil may have an antiatherogenic effect by improving lipids, and the susceptibility of LDL to oxidation in type 2 diabetes patients with dyslipidemia, and can therefore be recommended in the nutritional management of type 2 diabetes. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362443 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362442&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fogi%2F2011%2F949302%2F Conclusion. RCE supplementation exerted a subject improvement of scalp hair and skin status as well as libido, mood, sleep, and tiredness in postmenopausal women. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362442 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362441&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faps%2F2011%2F435132%2F The endothelium plays a pivotal role in vascular homeostasis, and endothelial dysfunction is a major feature of cardiovascular diseases, such as arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Recently, uridine adenosine tetraphosphate (Up4A) has been identified as a novel and potent endothelium-derived contracting factor (EDCF). Up4A structurally contains both purine and pyrimidine moieties, which activate purinergic receptors. There is an accumulating body of evidence to show that Up4A modulates vascular function by actions on endothelial and smooth muscle cells. In this paper, we discuss the effects of Up4A on vascular function and a potential role for Up4A in cardiovascular diseases. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362441 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362440&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fccrp%2F2011%2F170814%2F The Affordable Care Act signed into law by President Obama, with its value-based purchasing program, is designed to link payment to quality processes and outcomes. Treatment of critically ill patients represents nearly 1% of the gross domestic product and 25% of a typical hospital budget. Data suggest that high-intensity staffing patterns in the intensive care unit (ICU) are associated with cost savings and improved outcomes. We evaluate the literature investigating the cost-effectiveness and clinical outcomes of high-intensity ICU physician staffing as recommended by The Leapfrog Group (a consortium of companies that purchase health care for their employees) and identify ways to overcome barriers to nationwide implementation of these standards. Hospitals that have implemented the ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362440 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362440 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362439&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F418136%2F We establish several new Lyapunov-type inequalities for some quasilinear dynamic system involving the (p1,p2,…,pm)-Laplacian on an arbitrary time scale 𝕋, which generalize and improve some related existing results including the continuous and discrete cases. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362439 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362438&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjb%2F2011%2F702947%2F More than 200 species of dicotyledonous plants belonging to eight different families and 24 genera can establish actinorhizal symbiosis with the nitrogen-fixing soil actinomycete Frankia. Compared to the symbiotic interaction between legumes and rhizobia, little is known about the molecular basis of the infection process and nodule formation in actinorhizal plants. Here, we review a gene transfer system based on Agrobacterium rhizogenes that opens the possibility to rapidly analyze the function of candidate symbiotic genes. The transformation protocol generates “composite plants” that consist of a nontransgenic aerial part with transformed hairy roots. Composite plants have already been obtained in three different species of actinorhizal plants, including the tropical tree spec... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362438 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362437&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2011%2F787159%2F The aim of the present study was to evaluate the contribution of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR-β/δ) in animal model of periodontitis. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were lightly anaesthetized with pentobarbitone (35 mg/kg). Sterile, 2-0 black braided silk thread was placed around the cervix of the lower left first molar and knotted medially. Animals received GW0742 (0.3 mg/kg, 10% DMSO, i.p. after the ligature placement and daily for eight days). At day 8, the gingivomucosal tissue encircling the mandibular first molar was removed. One the eighth day after placement of the ligature, we evaluated (1) NF-κB expression, (2) cytokines expression, (3) iNOS expression, (5) the nitration of tyrosine, (6) apoptosis, and (8) the degree of gingivomuc... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362437 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362436&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F140697%2F The thickness of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer significantly affects not only the optical and electrical properties, but also its mechanical durability. To evaluate these influences on the molybdenum-doped zinc oxide layer deposited on a flexible polyethersulfone (PES) substrate by using a dual-ion-beam sputtering system, films with various thicknesses were prepared at a same condition and their optical and electrical performances have been compared. The results show that all the deposited films present a crystalline wurtzite structure, but the preferred orientation changes from (002) to (100) with increasing the film thickness. Thicker layer contains a relative higher carrier concentration, but the consequently accumulated higher internal stress might crack the film and retard ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362436 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362435&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fsrcm%2F2011%2F847409%2F One important mechanism by which cancer cells parasitize their host is by escaping apoptosis. Thus, selectively facilitating apoptosis is a therapeutic mechanism by which oncotherapy may prove highly advantageous. One major apoptotic pathway is mediated by Fas ligand (FasL). The death-inducing signaling Ccmplex (DISC) and subsequent death-domain aggregations are created when FasL is bound by its receptor thereby enabling programmed cell death. Conceptually, if a better understanding of the Fas pathway can be garnered, an oncoselective prodeath therapeutic approach can be tailored. Herein, we propose that EGF and CTGF play essential roles in the regulation of the Fas apoptotic pathway in sarcomas. Tumor and in vitro data suggest viable cells counter the prodeath signal induced by FasL by ac... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362435 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362434&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijap%2F2011%2F409764%2F The electromagnetic field in homogeneous plasma anisotropic medium can be expressed as the addition of the first and second spherical vector wave functions in plasma anisotropic medium. The tangential electromagnetic fields are continued in the boundary between the homogeneous plasma anisotropic medium and free space, and the tangential electrical field is zero in the surface of conducting sphere. The coefficients of electromagnetic fields in plasma anisotropic medium expanded in terms of spherical vector wave functions in plasma anisotropic medium are derived, and then the coefficients of scattering fields in terms of spherical vector functions in free space can be obtained. Numerical results between this paper and hybrid finite element-boundary integral-multilevel fast multipole algorith... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362434 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362433&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnt%2F2011%2F961630%2F We have explored the direct use of anodized alumina (AAO) fabricated on an Si wafer as a mold for the nanoimprint lithography (NIL). The AAO mold has been fabricated over more than 10 cm2 area with two different pore diameters of 163±24 nm and 73±7 nm. One of the key challenges of the lack of bonding between the antisticking self-assembled monolayer (SAM) and the AAO has been overcome by modifying the surface chemistry of the fabricated AAO mold by coating it with thin SiO2 layer. Then we have applied the commonly used silane-based self-assembled monolayer (SAM) on these SiO2-coated AAO molds and achieved successful imprinting of resist pillars with feature size of 172±25 nm by using the mold with a pore diameter of 163±24 nm. ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362433 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5362432&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjst%2F2011%2F635721%2F Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating, presumably autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Among the available MS therapies, interferon (IFN)β and the recently introduced statins have been reported to exert their immunomodulatory effects through the induction of SOCS1 and SOCS3 in various inflammatory cell subsets. The SOCS proteins negatively regulate cytokine and Toll-like receptors- (TLR-) induced signaling in the inflammatory cells. SOCS1 and SOCS3 have been reported to play an important role in the regulation of Th17-cell differentiation through their effects on the cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems. IFNβ and statins inhibit Th17-cell differentiation directly and indirectly via induction of SOCS1 and SOCS3 expression in monoc... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5362432 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:06:17 +0100 5362432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316238&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faess%2F2011%2F319657%2F Microcosm bioremediation strategies were applied to sediments contaminated with hydrocarbons. Experiments were performed in aerobic conditions in a single-step treatment and in a two-step anaerobic-aerobic treatment. In aerobic conditions, either inorganic nutrients or composts were added to the microcosms, while, in the first anaerobic phase of the two-step experiment, acetate and/or allochthonous sulfate-reducing bacteria were used. After the treatment under anaerobic conditions, samples were exposed to aerobic conditions in the presence of compost. In the aerobic treatments, 81% hydrocarbon biodegradation was observed after 43 days in the presence of inorganic nutrients. In aerobic conditions in the presence of mature compost, hydrocarbon biodegradation was 51% after 43 days of ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316238 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316237&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjammc%2F2011%2F457156%2F We report the design and operation of a Virtual Instrument (VI) system based on LabVIEW 2009 for laser-induced fluorescence experiments. This system achieves synchronous control of equipment and acquisition of real-time fluorescence data communicating with a single computer via GPIB, USB, RS232, and parallel ports. The reported VI system can also accomplish data display, saving, and analysis, and printing the results. The VI system performs sequences of operations automatically, and this system has been successfully applied to obtain the excitation and dispersion spectra of α-methylnaphthalene. The reported VI system opens up new possibilities for researchers and increases the efficiency and precision of experiments. The design and operation of the VI system are described in detail i... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316237 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316236&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fah%2F2011%2F196135%2F The association between cancer and venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been well documented in the literature. Prevention and treatment of VTE in cancer patients is imperative. Typically, the mainstay regimen for VTE prevention and treatment has been anticoagulation therapy, unless contraindicated. This therapy consists of unfractionated heparin (UFH), low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), factor Xa inhibitor, or vitamin K antagonist (VKA). Current guidelines recommend LMWH over VKA for the treatment of VTE in cancer patients. Factor-specific anticoagulants have been proven safe and effective, and recently factor Xa inhibitors have emerged as a treatment alternative to heparins and VKA. Currently, three factor Xa inhibitors have been identified: fondaparinux (the only one approved so far by th... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316236 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316235&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F910986%2F Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is a life-threatening complication in patients with cirrhosis. Hemostatic therapy of AVB includes early administration of vasoactive drugs that should be combined with endoscopic therapy, preferably banding ligation. However, failure to control bleeding or early rebleed within 5 days still occurs in 15–20% of patients with AVB. In these cases, a second endoscopic therapy may be attempted (mild bleeding in a hemodynamically stable patient) or we can use a balloon tamponade as a bridge to definitive derivative treatment (i.e., a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt). Esophageal balloon tamponade provides initial control in up to 80% of AVB, but it carries a high risk of major complications, especially in cases of long duration of tamponad... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316235 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316234&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fpulmonology%2F2011%2F695057%2F We describe the case of a patient with long-standing Parkinson's disease and recurrent bilateral pleural effusions. The pleural fluid was an exudate, rich in normal lymphocytes, and the echocardiogram, chest computerized axial tomography, and immunological, microbiological and cytological studies were negative. The patient had been taking bromocriptine, which can be related to chronic pleural effusions. Using Pubmed, we found about 40 cases of pleuropulmonary changes or constrictive pericarditis that were related to bromocriptine. We decided to suspend this drug, with resolution of the pleural effusion and respiratory complaints for more than a year now. We discuss possible underlining mechanisms for this and emphasize the importance of collecting the past medical history and medication an... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316234 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316233&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjbb%2F2011%2F503068%2F The flatworm Schistosoma mansoni is a blood fluke parasite that causes schistosomiasis, a debilitating disease that occurs throughout the developing world. Current schistosomiasis control strategies are mainly based on chemotherapy, but many researchers believe that the best long-term strategy to control schistosomiasis is through immunization with an antischistosomiasis vaccine combined with drug treatment. Several papers on Schistosoma mansoni vaccine and drug development have been published in the past few years, representing an important field of study. The advent of technologies that allow large-scale studies of genes and proteins had a remarkable impact on the screening of new and potential vaccine candidates in schistosomiasis. In this postgenomic scenario, bioinformatic technologie... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316233 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316232&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmse%2F2011%2F675405%2F To include user interactions in simulations of product use, the most common approach is to couple human subjects to simulation models, using hardware interfaces to close the simulation-control loop. Testing with virtual human models could offer a low-cost addition to evaluation with human subjects. This paper explores the possibilities for coupling human and artefact models to achieve fully software-based interaction simulations. We have critically reviewed existing partial solutions to simulate or execute control (both human control and product-embedded control) and compared solutions from literature with a proof-of-concept we have recently developed. Our concept closes all loops, but it does not rely on validated algorithms to predict human decision making and low-level human motor contr... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316232 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316231&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjst%2F2011%2F376543%2F Glomerular podocytes are critical for the barrier function of the glomerulus in the kidney and their dysfunction causes protein leakage into the urine (proteinuria). Nephrin is a key podocyte protein, which regulates the actin cytoskeleton via tyrosine phosphorylation of its cytoplasmic domain. Here we report that two protein tyrosine phosphatases, PTP1B and PTP-PEST negatively regulate nephrin tyrosine phosphorylation. PTP1B directly binds to and dephosphorylates nephrin, while the action of PTP-PEST is indirect. The two phosphatases are also upregulated in the glomerulus in the rat model of puromycin aminonucleoside nephrosis. Both overexpression and inhibition of PTP1B deranged the actin cytoskeleton in cultured mouse podocytes. Thus, protein tyrosine phosphatases may affect podocyte fu... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316231 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316230&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fdm%2F2011%2F803782%2F We report a unique case of a Caucasian male that was born as a Collodion baby at the University of Kentucky Children's Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Although the impairment of the skin barrier function put the patient at risk for a number of complications, he improved significantly after being treated with emollients and antibiotics. In contrast to previous findings, we found that skin emollients were beneficial and did not increase the risk of infection. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316230 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:09:06 +0100 5316230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5297575&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Forthopedics%2F2011%2F427823%2F Discussion with the patient about the scenario of trauma revealed a mechanism of injury which may appear unique. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5297575 Sun, 09 Oct 2011 09:07:15 +0100 5297575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5297574&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijc%2F2011%2F103785%2F A new chemical passivation technique, which contained 20 g/L hydrogen peroxide, 3.75 g/L sodium silicate, 1.25 g/L sodium carbonate, 3.75 g/L lactic acid and 0.75 g/L 8-hydroxyquinoline, was used to modify 316 stainless steel with Ag coating (Ag-coated 316SS) as PEMFC bipolar plates. The results indicated that the compact passive film had been obtained on the surface of Ag-coated 316SS. The passivation process could not only increase contact angle (from 58∘ to 104∘) but also decreased pinhole defects of Ag-coated 316SS. Electrochemical test manifested that the passivation process could reduce Ag-coated 316SS's double layer capacitance (Cd), and increase its charge transfer resistance. So, it provided significant protection against corrosion ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5297574 Sun, 09 Oct 2011 09:07:15 +0100 5297574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5297573&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fid%2F2011%2F950314%2F We describe a patient with fever and borreliosis in the Northwestern Washington State, USA. The patient exhibited a classic Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction of tachycardia, hypotension, and thrombocytopenia following antimicrobial therapy, and she also developed an elevated serum cardiac troponin during therapy. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5297573 Sun, 09 Oct 2011 09:07:15 +0100 5297573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5274670&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Famp%2F2011%2F252186%2F We study the Jacobian Poisson structures in any dimension invariant with respect to the discrete Heisenberg group. The classification problem is related to the discrete volume of suitable solids. Particular attention is given to dimension 3 whose simplest example is the Artin-Schelter-Tate Poisson tensors. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5274670 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:37:21 +0100 5274670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238894&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fhematology%2F2011%2F560106%2F We present the case of a woman with MDS (karyotype 46,XX,+1,der(1;7)(q10;p10)[20], that evolved with an additional trisomy 8 clone) and a novel spectrum of autoimmune diseases including acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia (AFOP) and lacrimal gland pseudotumor. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238894 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238893&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijn%2F2011%2F930965%2F We report a two-step protocol adapted in children with SRNS. Thirty-seven SRNS were treated with cyclosporine A (CyA) in association with prednisolone (alternate day) for 6 months (first-step treatment). Twelve patients (32.4%) went into complete remission, and 2 (5.4%) got partial remission. The other 23 cases who were steroid and CyA resistant entered a second-step treatment with withdrawing steroids, with CyA (5 mg/kg/day) in association with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) 30 mg/kg/day for 6 months. Complete remission was observed in 11 cases (47.82%) and partial remission in 2 cases (8.7%). After two steps of treatment, 27/37 children went into total remission. In steroid and CyA-resistant INS, the association of MMF with CyA was able to induce remission in about half cases... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238893 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238892&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fendocrinology%2F2011%2F867475%2F Conclusion. Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare but potentially serious complication of thyrotoxicosis resulting in temporary but severe muscle weakness. Recent discovery of a novel mutation in the KCNJ18 gene which codes for an inwardly rectifying potassium channel and is controlled by thyroid hormones may provide greater insight into the pathogenesis of TPP. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238892 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238891&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Facisc%2F2011%2F210918%2F Clonal selection algorithms (CSAs) is a special class of immune algorithms (IA), inspired by the clonal selection principle of the human immune system. To improve the algorithm's ability to perform better, this CSA has been modified by implementing two new concepts called fixed mutation factor and ladder mutation factor. Fixed mutation factor maintains a constant factor throughout the process, where as ladder mutation factor changes adaptively based on the affinity of antibodies. This paper compared the conventional CLONALG, with the two proposed approaches and tested on several standard benchmark functions. Experimental results empirically show that the proposed methods ladder mutation-based clonal selection algorithm (LMCSA) and fixed mutation clonal selection algorithm (FMCSA) signi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238891 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238890&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijps%2F2011%2F936973%2F A phosphate ester-forming reaction was carried out by mixing epoxidized soybean oil with up to 1.5% o-phosphoric acid. In situ oligomerization took effect almost instantly producing a clear, homogeneous, highly viscous, and a low-acid product with a high average functionality. The resulting epoxide was used as a reactant for urethane bioelastomer synthesis and evaluated for rigid foam formulation. Results have shown that with a number of catalysts tested phosphoric acid significantly enhances a solvent-free oxirane ring cleavage and polymerization of the epoxidized soybean oil via phosphate-ester formation at room temperature. The resulting phosphoric acid-catalyzed epoxide-based bioelastomer showed an 80% decrease in extractable content and increased tensile strength at the same isocyanat... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238890 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238889&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fbcri%2F2011%2F285618%2F Conclusion. Quercetin and resveratrol significantly decreased visfatin secretion from SGBS adipocytes. This effect may contribute to their overall antiatherogenic properties. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238889 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238888&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijbc%2F2011%2F923250%2F Many estrogen-receptor- (ER-) expressing breast cancers become refractory to ER-based therapies. New antitumor drugs like aminoflavone (AF) and benzothiazoles (Bzs) have been developed and have exquisite antitumor activity in ER+MCF-7 and T47D cells and in a MCF-7 nude mouse model. ER(−) breast cancer cells like MDA-MB-231 are less susceptible. We previously found in MCF-7 cells that these drugs activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) via translocation to the nucleus, induction of AhR-specific DNA binding activity, and expression of CYP1A1, whose transcription is controlled by the AhR-ARNT transcription factor. CYP1A1 metabolizes AF and Bz to a species which directly or after further metabolism damages DNA. In contrast an AhR-deficient variant of MCF-7 or cells with predominant... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238888 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238887&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjmb%2F2011%2F483428%2F Since potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR, 280–400 nm) and high photosynthetically active radiation (PAR, 400–700 nm) are present in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Aqaba where part of the seagrass Halophila stipulacea's population thrives, we examined the effects of high PAR with and without UVR on its photosynthesis and midday chloroplast “clumping phenomenon” (Sharon and Beer 2008). It was found that midday clumping occurred only under high PAR in the presence of UVR, which resulted in a 44% reduction in the absorption cross section (or absorption factor, AF) of the leaves and, accordingly, a parallel lowering of midday electron transport rates (ETR). In addition, UVR had a direct effect on the photosynthetic apparatus by loweri... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238887 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238886&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F403956%2F The role of gastrin on the development of atrophic gastritis (AG) and its relationship with the expression of RegIα  in vivo remain unclear. We established experimental AG in rats by combination administration with sodium salicylate, alcohol, and deoxycholate sodium. The mean score of inflammation in gastric antrum in AG rats was significantly elevated (P<0.05), while the number of glands dramatically decreased (P<0.05). In addition, the cell proliferation in gastric glands was increased in experimental AG rats, as determined by immunohistochemistry staining of PCNA and GS II. The level of serum gastrin in AG rats was significantly elevated relative to that of normal rats (P<0.01). Moreover, the expression of RegIα protein and its receptor m... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238886 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238885&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fradiology%2F2011%2F687203%2F We describe a case of extramedullary tracheal plasmacytoma that was incidentally discovered in a 73-year-old man on a PET scan performed for assessing the extent of colon cancer. CT scan showed the tumor; multiplanar reformation coupled with virtual bronchoscopy allowed proper treatment planning. The tracheal tumor was resected during rigid bronchoscopy. Relevant investigations excluded multiple myeloma. Follow-up CT showed persistent thickening of the tracheal wall, but there has been no recurrence after one-year followup. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238885 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238884&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpc%2F2011%2F150978%2F Laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy (LERP) is considered the standard care treatment option for the management of localized and locally advanced prostatic cancer (PCa) in many institutes worldwide. In this work, the main advantages and disadvantages of LERP approach are reviewed with regard to its outcomes, the complication management, the learning curve, and the extend of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). It is concluded that LERP demonstrates comparable cancer control, urinary continence, and potency outcomes with the open and the robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, while offering advantages in complication management in comparison to the transperitoneal approach. Learning curve of LERP is considered long and stiff and significantly affects perioperative outcomes and ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238884 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238883&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Foncmed%2F2011%2F978676%2F We report a case of a 60-year-old patient with small cell carcinoma of the subglottic larynx, who presented with hepatic metastasis. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238883 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238882&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fgenetics%2F2011%2F839650%2F There are multiple genetic disorders with known or unknown etiology grouped under obesity syndromes. Inspite of having multisystem involvement and often having a characteristic presentation, the understanding of the genetic causes in the majority of these syndromes is still lacking. The common obesity syndromes are Bardet-Biedl, Prader-Willi, Alstrom, Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy, Carpenter, Rubinstein-Taybi, Fragile X, and Börjeson-Forssman-Lehman syndrome. The list is ever increasing as new syndromes are being added to it. One of the recent additions is MOMO syndrome, with about five such cases being reported in literature. Expanding the spectrum of clinical features, we report the first case of MOMO syndrome from India with lobar variant of holoprosencephaly and cryptor... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238882 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238881&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fvetmed%2F2011%2F615861%2F A five-and-a-half-year-old Holstein-Friesian crossbred cow was repeatedly treated for termination of overgestation, but without any success. On laparotomy, the site indicating fetal-like ballottement on transrectal palpation was occupied by three to four separate caseous and lobulated masses with adhered uterine horns in the omentum. Separation of the utero-omental adhesions retrieved normal-sized uterine horns into pelvic cavity. The right ovary was cystic. Ultrasonography detected another growth in the ventral abdominal musculature. Histopathologically, the omental growths suggested a pleomorphic type of liposarcoma. Presence of omental and muscular liposarcoma along with deep uterine-omental adhesions and a cystic ovary makes this paper a unique addition to the literature. (Source: Gast... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238881 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238880&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F812364%2F This paper presents a comprehensive framework model of a distribution company with security and reliability considerations. A probabilistic wind farm, which is a renewable energy resource, is modeled in this work. The requirement energy of distribution company can be either provided by distribution company's own distributed generations or purchased from power market. Two reliability indices as well as DC load flow equations are also considered in order to satisfy reliability and security constraints, respectively. Since allocating proper spinning reserve improves reliability level, the amount of spinning reserve will be calculated iteratively. In this work, all equations are expressed in a linear fashion in which unit commitment formulation depends on binary variables associated with o... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238880 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5238879&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fahep%2F2011%2F859762%2F New Abelian vector bosons can kinetically mix with the hypercharge gauge boson of the Standard Model. This letter computes the model-independent limits on vector bosons with masses from 1 GeV to 1 TeV. The limits arise from the numerous e+e− experiments that have been performed in this energy range and bound the kinetic mixing by ϵ≲0.03 for most of the mass range studied, regardless of any additional interactions that the new vector boson may have. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5238879 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:25:32 +0100 5238879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923848&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F137386%2F In conclusion, our results suggest that C. capitatum possesses a relaxant effect on CCSM, which is attributable to the inhibition of PDE-5, but not mediated by the release calcium, activation of adrenergic or cholinergic receptors, or the activation of potassium channels. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923848 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923848 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923847&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijvm%2F2011%2F305027%2F Conclusions. This is a first estimate of the prevalence of DVT among bedridden or low-mobility patients. Some of the risk factors that came to light, such as home care as opposed to long-term residential care and cognitive deficit as causes of reduced mobility, are not among those usually observed in acutely ill patients. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923847 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923846&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fhpb%2F2011%2F364570%2F Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by a special type of hamartomatous gastrointestinal polyps combined with mucocutaneous melanin pigmentations. Patients with the syndrome have a high risk of developing neoplasia, with colon, small bowel, and stomach being the most common gastrointestinal sites. Herein, we present the occurrence of a rare tumor in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome; a cholangiocarcinoma of the endopancreatic bile duct. A minireview is also presented. It can be concluded that cholangiocarcinoma remains a possible diagnosis in PJS patients, as in others that present with biliary obstruction. PJS patients may be at higher risk than others in view of their propensity for malignancy. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Pract... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923846 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923845&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrim%2F2011%2F620480%2F Diffusely enlarged thyroid glands (goitres) are becoming increasingly infrequent. However, in some geographical areas they are still relatively common and can cause compressive symptoms involving the trachea, oesophagus, and recurrent laryngeal nerve. Surgical treatment of diffusely enlarged thyroid glands requires a high level of expertise and may lead to severe complications. Here we present a case report of surgical treatment of an extremely enlarged thyroid gland, found in a 61-year-old female patient. The patient underwent surgery, and a thyroidectomy was performed. The resulting specimen weighed 4.7 kg (10.4 lbs). Histopathological examination revealed a multinodular goitre with multiple cysts and areas of haemorrhage and necrosis. Surgical excision can immediately reso... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923845 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923844&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Fappmath%2F2011%2F714102%2F A simple and efficient algorithm for finding the GCD of a pair of univariate polynomials is derived. The process requires only successive subtraction of two monic polynomials. Amazingly, this approach gives the desired GCD for a pair of test polynomials of very high degree, such as (x+1)∧1000 and its derivative. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923844 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923843&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjammc%2F2011%2F907317%2F Acetaldehyde (ethanal) is a genotoxic carcinogen, which may occur naturally or as an added flavour in foods. We have developed an efficient method to analyze the compound in a wide variety of food matrices. The analysis is conducted using headspace (HS) gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detector. Using a robot autosampler, the samples are digested in full automation with simulated gastric fluid (1 h at 37°C) under shaking, which frees acetaldehyde loosely bound to matrix compounds. Afterwards, an aliquot of the HS is injected into the GC system. Standard addition was applied for quantification to compensate for matrix effects. The precision of the method was sufficient (<3% coefficient of variation). The limit of detection was 0.01 mg/L and the limi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923843 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0100 4923843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4904830&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijrm%2F2011%2F415296%2F All hydrocarbon- (HC-) fueled heat engine exhaust (tailpipe) emissions (<10 to 140 nm) contribute as health hazards, including emissions from transportation vehicles (e.g., aircraft) and other HC-fueled power systems. CO2 emissions are tracked and, when mapped, show outlines of major transportation routes and cities. Particulate pollution affects living tissue and is found to be detrimental to cardiovascular and respiratory systems where ultrafine particulates directly translocate to promote vascular system diseases potentially detectable as organic vapors. This paper discusses aviation emissions, fueling, and certification issues, including heat engine emissions hazards, detection at low levels and tracking of emissions, and alternate energy sources for general aviation. (Sourc... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4904830 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 17:22:07 +0100 4904830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4854918&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjs%2F2011%2F204767%2F This paper presents negative AC dielectrophoretic investigations using elliptic electrode geometry. Simulations of the electric field gradient variation using various ratios of the semimajor and the semiminor axis were carried out to determine the optimum elliptic geometry for the dielectrophoretic electrokinetics of specimen in an assay with laminar (low Reynolds number) fluid flow. Experimental setup of the elliptic electrode assembly using PCB fabrication and electrokinetic accumulation of specimen in a dielectrophoretic cage is also being reported. Using an actuating signal between 1 kHz and 1 MHz, successful trapping of 45 μm polystyrene beads suspended in distilled water was demonstrated due to negative dielectrophoresis near 100 kHz using the novel ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4854918 Tue, 24 May 2011 17:26:11 +0100 4854918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4854917&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faaa%2F2011%2F265316%2F We will prove some dynamic inequalities of Opial type on time scales which not only extend some results in the literature but also improve some of them. Some discrete inequalities are derived from the main results as special cases. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4854917 Tue, 24 May 2011 17:26:11 +0100 4854917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4854916&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijbi%2F2011%2F361589%2F Conclusions. It is feasible to perform volumetric analysis efficiently with high accuracy and low variability, even in patients with late-stage cancer who have complex lesions. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4854916 Tue, 24 May 2011 17:26:11 +0100 4854916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4854915&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2011%2F830286%2F There is an obvious and urgent need for novel approaches to treat infectious diseases. The use of monoclonal antibodies in therapy of infectious diseases is now experiencing renewed interest. During the last 5 years radioimmunotherapy (RIT), a modality previously developed only for cancer treatment, has been successfully adapted for the treatment of experimental fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. As our model organism for studying the efficacy, mechanisms, potential toxicity, and radioresistance to RIT, as well as for comparison of RIT with the existing antimicrobial therapies we have chosen the encapsulated yeast Cryptococcus neoformans (CN). The success of RIT approach in laboratory studies provides encouragement for feasibility of therapeutically targeting microbes with labeled an... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4854915 Tue, 24 May 2011 17:26:11 +0100 4854915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4749170&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Fme%2F2011%2F321605%2F As a first endeavor, the one- and two-dimensional heat wave propagation in a medium subjected to different boundary conditions and with temperature-dependent thermal conductivity is studied. Both the spatial as well as the temporal domain is discretized using the differential quadrature method (DQM). This results in superior accuracy with fewer degrees of freedom than conventional finite element method (FEM). To verify this advantage through some comparison studies, a finite element solution ise also obtained. After demonstrating the convergence and accuracy of the method, the effects of different parameters on the temperature distribution of the medium are studied. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4749170 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:55:15 +0100 4749170 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4749169&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijdsn%2F2011%2F807091%2F Power management is addressed in the context of embedded systems from energy-aware design to energy-efficient implementation. A set of mechanisms specifically conceived for this scenario is proposed, including a power management API defined at the level of user-visible system components, the infrastructure necessary to implement that API (namely, battery monitoring, accounting, autosuspend, and autoresume), an energy-event propagation mechanism based on Petri nets and implemented with aspect-oriented programming techniques, and an autonomous power manager build upon the proposed API and infrastructure. These mechanisms are illustrated and evaluated using realistic wireless sensor network cases that sustain comparisons with other proposals at each of the considered levels. As a result, this... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4749169 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:55:15 +0100 4749169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4699027&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F291512%2F Sucrose is a natural osmolyte accumulated in the cells of organisms as they adapt to environmental stress. In vitro sucrose increases protein stability and forces partially unfolded structures to refold. Thin films of sucrose (C12H22O11) were deposited on thin cut glass substrates by the thermal evaporation technique (P∼10−5 torr). Characteristics of thin films were put into evidence by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential thermal analysis and thermal gravimetric analysis (TG/DTA). The experimental results confirm a uniform deposition of an adherent layer. In this paper we present a part of the characteristics of sucrose thin films deposited on glass in medium vacuum condit... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4699027 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:53:34 +0100 4699027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4654671&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fphys%2F2011%2F679175%2F Ohm's law models have been used in several works in geophysical prospecting but have never been used for coral reef. We adapted such a model to the barrier reef of Papeete (Tahiti island) in order to estimate of its thermal conductivity. We found the thermal conductivity of the barrier reef is about four times greater than that of the water. The results are then validated by the mean of experimental measurements. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4654671 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:45:52 +0100 4654671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4654670&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F638565%2F We study some properties of RPPP. RPPP is discussed by rising with constant velocity along a given axis. The constant pressure which it stresses on a constant axis is defined by the increasing PPP. Some relations between the increase at PPP and angular velocity at R are analyzed and relations of correlation are investigated at Matlab. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4654670 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:45:52 +0100 4654670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4623387&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F526167%2F This work deals with numerical methods of parameter optimization for asymptotically stable systems. We formulate a special mathematical programming problem that allows us to determine optimal parameters of a stabilizer. This problem involves solutions to a differential equation. We show how to chose the mesh in order to obtain discrete problem guaranteeing the necessary accuracy. The developed methodology is illustrated by an example concerning optimization of parameters for a satellite stabilization system. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4623387 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:28:33 +0100 4623387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4596321&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fasp%2F2011%2F234090%2F This paper deals with convolution setting at boundary regions for 1D convolution computed during recursive Gaussian and Gabor filtering as well as staged Gabor filtering computed more efficiently as modulation, recursive Gaussian, and demodulation. These are established fast approximations to their filters. Until recently, all the three applications of recursive filters suffered from distortions near boundary as a result of inappropriate boundary treatment. The extension of input data with constant border value is presumed. We review a recently suggested setting for recursive Gaussian and Gabor filtering. Then, a new convolution setting for the more efficient staged Gabor filtering is presented. We also offer a formula to compute the scale coefficient, using which a zero-mean Gabor filter ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4596321 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 17:23:14 +0100 4596321 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4503169&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F640797.html Conclusions. Rosuvastatin reduced the vessel anomalies and tumour growth and prolonged survival in HCC. These results represent new mechanisms of the effects of statin on tumour angiogenesis and a potential target therapy in HCC. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4503169 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 17:26:10 +0100 4503169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4356653&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F548390.html Exposure to hepatitis C virus (HCV) usually results in persistent infection that often develops into chronic liver disease. Interferon-alpha (IFN) treatment comprises the foundation of current approved therapy for chronic HCV infection but is limited in overall efficacy. IFN is a major effector of innate antiviral immunity and is naturally produced in response to viral infection when viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) are recognized as nonself and are bound by cellular pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs). Within hepatocytes, RIG-I is a major PRR of HCV infection wherein PAMP interactions serve to trigger intracellular signaling cascades in the infected hepatocyte to drive IFN production and the ex... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4356653 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:35:29 +0100 4356653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4332762&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F860394.html We report a case of an adolescent with chronic pouchitis who not only improved with infliximab therapy but remains in long-term remission with maintenance therapy without any adverse effects. Infliximab is a safe and effective therapy for refractory pouchitis and may obviate the need for pouch removal and a permanent ileostomy. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4332762 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:31:14 +0100 4332762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4296649&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F539461.html DNA samples from 339 Crohn's disease (CD) and 407 randomly selected controls from the Auckland (New Zealand) IBD project, were genotyped for five common single nucleotide polymorphisms in IL-23R (rs11805303, rs7517847, rs1343151, rs11209026, and rs10889677) and two in IL-12B (rs1363670 and rs6887695). While the IL-12B variants did not show an overall association and other IL23R variants led to minor changes in the risk of CD, rs1343151 and/or rs7517847 variants in the IL-23R gene strongly reduced the risk of developing CD at both allelic and genotype levels. A significantly decreased risk of first diagnosis of childhood CD was observed in individuals carrying the A allele of rs1343151, or between 17–40 y in individuals carrying the G allele in rs7517847 of IL-23R. A signi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4296649 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:43:53 +0100 4296649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4296648&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F467136.html This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of NASHA/Dx gel in the treatment of FI. One hundred fifteen eligible patients suffering from FI received 4 injections of 1 mL NASHA/Dx gel. Primary efficacy was based on data from 86 patients that completed the study. This study demonstrated a ≥50% reduction from baseline in the number of FI episodes in 57.1% of patients at 6 months, and 64.0% at 12 months. Significant improvements (P<.001) were also noted in total number of both solid and loose FI episodes, FI free days, CCFIS, and FIQL scores in all 4 domains. The majority of the treatment related AEs (94.9%) were mild or moderate intensity, and (98.7%) of AEs resolved spontaneously, or following treatment, without sequelae. Results of this study indicate NASHA/Dx gel was effic... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4296648 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:43:53 +0100 4296648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4296647&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F268290.html Conclusion. Repeat EUS-FNA provides reasonable accuracy and may be worthwhile in patients with suspected pancreatic cancer who had had prior negative EUS-FNA. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4296647 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:43:53 +0100 4296647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4278694&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F490147.html The safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in patients ≥65 years of age requires further investigation of postoperative outcomes before it becomes more widely accepted as a safe technique. The advantages of using LC versus open cholecystectomy (OC) in elderly patients were analyzed using propensity score matching. The demographics, cholecystitis severity, comorbidities, complications, and admission and discharge Barthel Index (BI) scores of patients with benign gallbladder diseases were analyzed. Outcomes were analyzed by age, length of stay (LOS), total charges (TCs), BI improvement, and postoperative complications. OC, which was indicated in severe disease cases, increased hospital resource use and caused more complications than LC, but did not improve BI. Advanced age and OC... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4278694 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:46:09 +0100 4278694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4276219&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F789363.html We examined KRAS mutations in exon 2 codons 12 and 13 with DNA sequencing and SNaPshot analysis in 100 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissue samples of pancreatic carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, and nonsmall cell lung cancer specimens of the primary tumor or metastases. 40% of these samples demonstrated mutated KRAS genes using sequencing and SNaPshot-analysis; additional five samples (45/100) were identified only with the SNaPshot. KRAS mutation detection is feasible with the reliable SNaPshot analysis method. The more frequent mutation detection by the SNaPshot analysis shows that this method has a high probability of accuracy in the detection of KRAS mutations compared to sequencing. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4276219 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:12:53 +0100 4276219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260630&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F403295.html Animal models for CP in rats can be classified into 2 groups: one is noninvasive or nonsurgical models and the other is invasive or surgical models. Pancreatic injury induced by repetitive injections of supramaximal stimulatory dose of caerulein (Cn) or by intraductal infusion of sodium taurocholate (NaTc) recovered within 14 days, whereas that caused by repetitive injection of arginine or by intraductal infusion of oleic acid was persistent. However, the destroyed acinar tissues were replaced by fatty tissues without fibrosis. Transient stasis of pancreatic fluid flow by 0.01% agarose and minimum injury of the pancreatic duct by 0.1% NaTc solution induced progressive pancreatic injury although one alone is insufficient to cause persistent pancreatic injury. However, the damaged ti... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260630 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:54:03 +0100 4260630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4242999&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F898193.html Conclusions. This pancrelipase is a safe and effective treatment for malabsorption associated with exocrine PI in patients with CF. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4242999 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:42:31 +0100 4242999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4221450&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F170702.html Conclusions. In this study, the prevalence of CD in dyspeptic patients was high. As a result, this study suggests that screening by serology tests (EMA/tTG) is justifiable for the detection of CD among functional dyspeptic patients in the tertiary centers in our country. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4221450 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 15:53:31 +0100 4221450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4201244&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F758397.html Conclusion. In patients with endoscopic gastritis, Troxipide, with its superior rate of improvement, resolution of signs, and subjective clinical symptoms, can be considered as an alternative to the commonly used antisecretory agents. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4201244 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:05:43 +0100 4201244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4122540&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F475130.html We describe a rare case of 31-year-old immunocompetent man affected by a retroperitoneal abscess secondary to tubercular infection. Exploratory laparotomy and histopathological examinations of tissue were required for achieving diagnosis of tuberculosis. No pulmonary or spinal involvement was identified. The patient was successfully treated with standard four-drug antitubercular therapy. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4122540 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 10:58:51 +0100 4122540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4028562&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F672453.html Conclusions. The effects on CCP, cytokines and wound healing were similar for both GLP-2 agonists under normoxic and hypoxic conditions; anastomotic strength was not affected. This suggests that GLP-2 (or agonists) could be safely used peri-operatively; direct studies will be required. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4028562 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:18:17 +0100 4028562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4005951&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F598109.html While hepatocytes rarely undergo proliferation in normal livers, they quickly induce proliferation in response to loss of liver mass by toxin or inflammation-induced hepatocyte injury, trauma, or surgical resection, leading to a restoration of liver mass to its original size. Recent studies suggest that Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling participates in this regenerative response. Myeloid differentiation factor (MyD88), a common adaptor molecule in the TLR, IL-1 and IL-18 receptor signaling, plays a key role, at least, in the early phase of liver regeneration. Currently, definite ligands which bind to TLRs and initiate this process are still unclear. TLRs stimulated by their corresponding ligands, as well as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors (TNFRs), can activate downstream signal mole... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4005951 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 14:15:42 +0100 4005951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3995568&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F750904.html Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) is a member of the TLR family that can recognize double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), playing an important role in antiviral immunity. Recent studies have shown that TLR3 is also expressed on parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells in the liver as well as on several types of immune cells. In this review, we summarize the role of TLR3 in liver injury, inflammation, regeneration, and liver fibrosis, and discuss the implication of TLR3 in the pathogenesis of human liver diseases including viral hepatitis and autoimmune liver disease. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3995568 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 07:41:53 +0100 3995568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3926114&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F470468.html Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways are strictly coordinated by several mechanisms to regulate adequate innate immune responses. Recent lines of evidence indicate that the suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family proteins, originally identified as negative-feedback regulators in cytokine signaling, are involved in the regulation of TLR-mediated immune responses. SOCS1, a member of SOCS family, is strongly induced upon TLR stimulation. Cells lacking SOCS1 are hyperresponsive to TLR stimulation. Thus, SOCS1 is an important regulator for both cytokine and TLR-induced responses. As an immune organ, the liver contains various types of immune cells such as T cells, NK cells, NKT cells, and Kupffer cells and is continuously challenged with gut-derived bacterial and dietary antigens.... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3926114 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 06:21:38 +0100 3926114 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3917097&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F618260.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are expressed on all major subsets of liver cells. Both exogenous ligands derived from pathogens, and endogenous ligands that are products of cellular injury, engage these receptors and activate aspects of innate immunity. These receptors play a role in viral and parasitic infections of the liver, in ischemia-reperfusion injury, and in toxic liver damage, promoting antipathogen immunity but also hepatocellular injury and fibrogenesis. However, TLRs may also participate in negative feedback that limits tissue injury. In the complex environment of the liver, TLRs participate in pathologic cascades involving multiple cell types, manifesting their effects both through cell-autonomous actions, and via cellular crosstalk. In this paper we survey the involvement of TLRs... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3917097 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:18:03 +0100 3917097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3917096&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F382852.html The purpose of this paper is to assess the efficacy of green coffee extract (GCE) as a weight loss supplement, using data from human clinical trials. Electronic and nonelectronic searches were conducted to identify relevant articles, with no restrictions in time or language. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality of included studies. Five eligible trials were identified, and three of these were included. All studies were associated with a high risk of bias. The meta-analytic result reveals a significant difference in body weight in GCE compared with placebo (mean difference: −2.47 kg; 95%CI: −4.23, −0.72). The magnitude of the effect is moderate, and there is significant heterogeneity amongst the studies. It is c... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3917096 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:18:03 +0100 3917096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3917095&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F583297.html Echinococcosis is among the most neglected parasitic diseases. Development of new drugs and other treatment modalities receives very little attention, if any. In most developed countries, Cystic Echinococcosis (CE) is an imported disease of very low incidence and prevalence and is found almost exclusively in migrants from endemic regions. In endemic regions, predominantly settings with limited resources, patient numbers are high. Whole communities do not have access to appropriate treatment. The choice of treatment modalities is limited because of poor infrastructure and shortage of equipment and drugs. In this context, CE meets the criteria for a neglected disease. Furthermore, the terminology related to the designations around the parasite, its evolution and some therapeutic procedures i... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3917095 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:18:03 +0100 3917095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3900921&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F410971.html Refeeding syndrome (RFS) describes the biochemical changes, clinical manifestations, and complications that can occur as a consequence of feeding a malnourished catabolic individual. RFS has been recognised in the literature for over fifty years and can result in serious harm and death. Crude estimates of incidence, morbidity, and mortality are available for specific populations. RFS can occur in any individual but more commonly occurs in at-risk populations. Increased awareness amongst healthcare professionals is likely to reduce morbidity and mortality. This review examines the physiology of RFS and describes the clinical manifestations. A management strategy is described. The importance of a multidisciplinary approach is emphasized. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3900921 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 06:22:47 +0100 3900921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3883017&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F189561.html Protein S (PS), mainly synthesized in hepatocytes and endothelial cells, plays a critical role as a cofactor of anticoagulant activated protein C (APC). PS activity is regulated by C4b-binding protein (C4BP), structurally composed of seven α-chains (C4BPα) and a β-chain (C4BPβ). In this paper, based primarily on our previous studies, we review the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced signaling which affects expression of PS and C4BP in the liver. Our in vivo studies in rats showed that after LPS injection, plasma PS levels are significantly decreased, whereas plasma C4BP levels first are transiently decreased after 2 to 12 hours and then significantly increased after 24 hours. LPS decreases PS antigen and mRNA levels in both hepatocytes and sinusoidal endothelial ce... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3883017 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 06:12:48 +0100 3883017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3874105&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F710381.html In the multifactorial pathophysiology of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), inflammatory cascade activation plays a central role. Recent studies demonstrated that Toll-like Receptors, the sensors of microbial and endogenous danger signals, are expressed and activated in innate immune cells as well as in parenchymal cells in the liver and thereby contribute to ALD. In this paper, we discuss the importance of gut-derived endotoxin and its recognition by TLR4. The significance of TLR-induced intracellular signaling pathways and cytokine production as well as the contribution of reactive oxygen radicals is evaluated. The contribution of TLR signaling to induction of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular cancer is reviewed in the context of alcohol-induced liver disease. (Source: Gastroenterology Resea... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3874105 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:15:46 +0100 3874105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3870191&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F616023.html The E-cadherin-catenin complex provides cell-cell adhesion. In order for a carcinoma to metastasize, cancer cells must let go of their hold of neighboring cells in the primary tumor. The presence of components of the E-cadherin-catenin complex in 246 rectal adenocarcinomas was examined by immunohistochemistry and compared to their presence in 219 colon carcinomas. The expression data were correlated to clinical information from the patients' records. There were statistically significant differences in protein expression between the rectal and the colon carcinomas regarding membranous β-catenin, γ-catenin, p120-catenin, and E-cadherin, as well as nuclear β-catenin. In the rectal carcinomas, there was a significant inverse association between the expression of p120-c... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3870191 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 06:14:15 +0100 3870191 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3870190&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F312790.html In conclusion, susceptibility to chronic steatohepatitis may be driven by factors related to efficiency of ethanol metabolism and degree to which ethanol exposure causes hepatic insulin resistance and cytokine activation. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3870190 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 06:14:15 +0100 3870190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3846550&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F212563.html Chronic inflammation is a key feature of insulin resistance and obesity. Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4), involved in modulating innate immunity, is an important mediator of insulin resistance and its comorbidities. TLR4 contributes to the development of insulin resistance and inflammation through its activation by elevated exogenous ligands (e.g., dietary fatty acids and enteric lipopolysaccharide) and endogenous ligands (e.g., free fatty acids) which are elevated in obese states. TLR4, expressed in insulin target tissues, activates proinflammatory kinases JNK, IKK, and p38 that impair insulin signal transduction directly through inhibitory phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS) on serine residues. TLR4 activation also leads to increased transcription of pro-inflammatory genes, r... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3846550 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:15:06 +0100 3846550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3825062&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F537263.html The family of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) function as pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) that respond to a myriad of highly conserved ligands. These substrates include pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) for the recognition of invading pathogens, as well as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) for the recognition of endogenous tissue injury. While the functions of TLRs are diverse, they have received much attention for their roles in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the liver and other organs. The TLRs play central roles in sensing tissue damage and activating the innate immune system following I/R. Engagement of TLRs by endogenous DAMPs activates proinflammatory signaling pathways leading to the production of cytokines, chemokines and further release of endogenous ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3825062 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 05:51:11 +0100 3825062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3814402&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F760720.html Parenteral Nutrition (PN) is a valuable life saving intervention which can improve the nutritional status of hospitalized malnourished patients. PN is associated with complications including the development of hyperglycemia. This paper aims to provide a descriptive systematic review regarding the effects of PN-induced hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients, either in the intensive care unit or ward, while formulating and complementing existing guidelines on the administration of PN and glucose monitoring in hospitalized patients. Medline and Pubmed were searched for relevant articles describing complications arising from the development of hyperglycemia in patients receiving PN; four relevant studies were identified in the search. These articles had different glycemic targets and patient p... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3814402 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:46:15 +0100 3814402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3814401&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F818979.html Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a major complaint among older people. Dysphagia may cause two types of complications in these patients: (a) a decrease in the efficacy of deglutition leading to malnutrition and dehydration, (b) a decrease in deglutition safety, leading to tracheobronchial aspiration which results in aspiration pneumonia and can lead to death. Clinical screening methods should be used to identify older people with oropharyngeal dysphagia and to identify those patients who are at risk of aspiration. Videofluoroscopy (VFS) is the gold standard to study the oral and pharyngeal mechanisms of dysphagia in older patients. Up to 30% of older patients with dysphagia present aspiration—half of them without cough, and 45%, oropharyngeal residue; and 55% older patients wi... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3814401 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:46:15 +0100 3814401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3814400&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F857949.html Conclusions. Nutrition therapy in patients with AP emerged from supportive adjunctive therapy to a proactive primary intervention. Large multicentre studies are needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of nasogastric feeding and to investigate the role of early nutrition support. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3814400 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:46:15 +0100 3814400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3814399&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F840512.html Conclusions. Medical personnel must be aware that malnutrition afflicts even patients whose background is not suggestive of malnutrition. Best results are achieved when cooperation of all staff members is enlisted, because malnutrition has severe consequences and can be treated easily. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3814399 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:46:15 +0100 3814399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3814398&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2011%2F134819.html Conclusion. Propofol-based sedation does not increase rate of complication during PEG procedure. Additionally, IVS of PEG procedure is relatively safe and effective when performed by physicians in training. Serious complications are none. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3814398 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:46:15 +0100 3814398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3796507&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F453563.html Emerging evidence suggests a strong interaction between the gut microbiota and health and disease. The interactions of the gut microbiota and the liver have only recently been investigated in detail. Receiving approximately 70% of its blood supply from the intestinal venous outflow, the liver represents the first line of defense against gut-derived antigens and is equipped with a broad array of immune cells (i.e., macrophages, lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells) to accomplish this function. In the setting of tissue injury, whereby the liver is otherwise damaged (e.g., viral infection, toxin exposure, ischemic tissue damage, etc.), these same immune cell populations and their interactions with the infiltrating gut bacteria likely contribute to and promote these patho... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3796507 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 06:01:40 +0100 3796507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3786602&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F121620.html We report two females (42 and 44 years old) with low-grade fever, arthralgias, and elevated cholestatic enzymes in the first and fatigue in the second. Patients were also suffering from typical EN lesions characterized by multiple erythematous, painful nodules over the anterior portions of their lower extremities. Clinical and extensive laboratory work up excluded all known EN causes. PBC diagnosis was established according to the cholestatic biochemical profile, anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) positivity and liver histology (first), and AMA and antinuclear (ANA) PBC-specific antibodies (second). Our report may suggest that PBC could be kept in mind in EN patients of unknown aetiology and particularly, when middle-aged female patients are affected. In such cases a thorough evaluation f... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3786602 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 05:44:44 +0100 3786602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3786601&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F192543.html Liver fibrosis occurs as a wound-healing scar response following acute and chronic liver inflammation including alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, hepatitis B and C, and autoimmune hepatitis. Myofibroblasts, mainly transdifferentiated from hepatic stellate cells, are pivotal cell types that produce fibrillar collagen. The activation of inflammatory cells, including Kupffer cells, is a crucial step for activating hepatic stellate cells. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern recognition receptors that sense pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which discriminate the products of microorganisms from the host. TLRs are expressed on Kupffer cells, endothelial cells, dendritic cells, biliary epithelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, and hepatocytes in the liver. T... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3786601 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 05:44:44 +0100 3786601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3763712&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F261472.html Barriers to management of HCV in injection drug users are related to patients, health providers, and facilities. In a primary care drug user's addiction centre we studied access to HCV standard of care before and after using an onsite total care concept provided by a multidisciplinary team and noninvasive liver fibrosis evaluation. A total of 586 patients were seen between 2002 and 2004. The majority, 417 patients, were HCV positive and of these patients 337 were tested positive for HCV RNA. In 2002, patients were sent to the hospital. with the Starting of 2003, patients were offered standard of care HCV management in the center by a team of general practitioners, a consultant hepatologist, psychiatrists, nurses, and a health counsellor. Liver fibrosis was assessed by a non invasive me... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3763712 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 05:45:01 +0100 3763712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3744775&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F721946.html We report a case of double gallbladder with adenocarcinoma and gallstones, which was preoperatively diagnosed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and then confirmed by open laparotomy. A review of the literature is presented. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3744775 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 05:44:18 +0100 3744775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3663955&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F641865.html Administration of heat-killed Propionibacterium acnes renders mice highly susceptible to LPS. After LPS challenge P. acnes-primed mice promptly show hypothermia, hypercoagulation (disseminated intravascular coagulation), elevation of serum proinflammatory cytokine levels, and high mortality. The surviving mice develop liver injury. As previously reported, IL-18 plays a pivotal role in the development of this liver injury. Many cell types including macrophages constitutively store IL-18 as biologically inactive precursor (pro) form. Upon appropriate stimulation exemplified by TLR4 engagement, the cells secrete biologically active IL-18 by cleaving pro-IL-18 with caspase-1. Caspase-1 is also constitutively produced as a zymogen in macrophages. Recently, NLRP3, a cytoplasmic pathogen sensor, ... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3663955 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:18:51 +0100 3663955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3660569&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F289135.html We report a case of successful nonsurgical treatment of a patient with extensive air involving the peritoneum, retroperitoneum, thorax, mediastinum, and subcutaneous tissues following an ERCP perforation. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3660569 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:21:28 +0100 3660569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3637882&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F901739.html The objective was to develop a score, to stratify patients with acute cholecystitis into high, intermediate, or low probability of gangrenous cholecystitis. The probability of gangrenous cholecystitis (score) was derived from a logistic regression of a clinical and pathological review of 245 patients undergoing urgent cholecystectomy. Sixty-eight patients had gangrenous inflammation, 132 acute, and 45 no inflammation. The score comprised of: age > 45 years (1 point), heart rate > 90 beats/min (1 point), male (2 points), Leucocytosis > 13,000/mm3 (1.5 points), and ultrasound gallbladder wall thickness > 4.5 mm (1 point). The prevalence of gangrenous cholecystitis was 13% in the low-probability (0–2 points), 33% in the intermediate-probability (... Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3637882 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 13:19:37 +0100 3637882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3634414&cid=s_37027_17_f&fid=37027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgrp%2F2010%2F138748.html We report two cases of severe postsphincterotomy bleeding in an adult and a pediatric patient treated, as first options, with available techniques to induce hemostasis without success. Because of persisting bleeding, an expandable, partially covered, metallic stent was placed into the choledocho to mechanically compress the bleeding site. The bleeding was stopped. In the following days, both patients remained hemodynamically stable with no further episodes of bleeding. We believe that the application of a covered metallic stent in a severe postendoscopic-sphincterotomy bleeding, refractory to injection therapy, should be considered to avoid additional interventions, which carry a higher risk of complications, even in pediatric patients. (Source: Gastroenterology Research and Practice) Gastroenterology Research and Practice journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3634414 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 13:20:11 +0100 3634414