A colon video analysis framework for polyp detection.

This paper presents an automated video analysis framework for the detection of colonic polyps in optical colonoscopy. Our proposed framework departs from previous methods in that we include spatial frame-based analysis and temporal video analysis using time-course image sequences. We also provide a video quality assessment scheme including two measures of frame quality.

From the Cover: CD39 deletion exacerbates experimental murine colitis and human polymorphisms increase susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease.

CD39/ENTPD1 hydrolyzes proinflammatory nucleotides to generate adenosine. As purinergic mediators have been implicated in intestinal inflammation, we hypothesized that CD39 might protect against inflammatory bowel disease. We studied these possibilities in a mouse model of colitis using mice with global CD39 deletion.

Heightened NTPDase-1/CD39 expression and angiogenesis in radiation proctitis.

Radiation proctitis is an inflammatory process associated with persistent and refractory lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Purinergic signaling regulates hemostasis, inflammation, and angiogenesis. For example, CD39, the vascular ectonucleotidase, blocks platelet activation and is required for angiogenesis.

Heme oxygenase-1-generated biliverdin ameliorates experimental murine colitis.

Background: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) seems to have an important protective role in acute and chronic inflammation. The products of heme catalysis, biliverdin/bilirubin, carbon monoxide (CO), and iron (that induces apoferritin) mediate the beneficial effects of HO-1. Blockade of HO-1 activity results in exacerbation of experimental colitis.

Metabolism and disposition of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1- butanone (NNK) in rhesus monkeys.

Metabolism and disposition of the tobacco-specific N-nitrosamine, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), a potent rodent lung carcinogen, were studied in rhesus monkeys. In three males receiving a single i.v.