bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Long Quest for an International Order with Chinese Characteristics: A Cultural Perspective on Modern China's Foreign Policies
Authors: Connolly Chris , Gottwald Jörn‐Carsten
Published: August 2013

The role of the People's Republic of China in international relations (IR) is academically contested and politically crucial. While the dominance of (neo‐)realist perspectives of China's rise as a threat to the current order is receding, new approaches in the study of the foreign policies of the People's Republic of China and their impact on global issues are needed. This paper follows Lebow's cultural theory of IR by adapting the categories of “appetite” – Lebow's code for material interests – and “spirit” – non‐materialistic objectives, such as prestige or international standing – to the study of Chinese foreign policy‐making since the Xinhai revolution. The paper argues that China seeks to transform the system not merely as a means of attaining prestige or other liberalist or realist concerns. One of the key defining images of Chinese elites over time has been – and continues to be – one of China as a leading civilization setting global norms and standards. Applying Lebow's theory to foreign‐policy making therefore allows the integration of a normative dimension without immediately entering the dogmatic clashes among IR theorists. By proposing a long‐term perspective on China's engagement with the international system over the past 100 years, we assert that the desire for prestige and honor within the international system is one key determinant in China's behavior. Clearly, it cannot explain all of China's foreign policy choices. It highlights, however, how China's self‐esteem has meant that it has constantly sought to remake the rules to take account of China's own self‐image.
Pediatricians' Perspectives on Indoor Tanning
Authors: Hession Meghan T. , Campbell Shannon M. , Balk Sophie J. , Cummins Deborah L.
Published: August 2013

This report presents results from an online survey of New York State pediatricians regarding their counseling habits and attitudes toward indoor tanning among adolescents, as well as their awareness of current legislation that restricts youth access to tanning beds.
Generalized Hair Casts Due to Traction
Authors: Ozuguz Pinar , Kacar Seval , Takci Zennure , Ekiz Ozlem , Kalkan Goknur , Bulbul Sen Bilge
Published: August 2013

Peripilar keratin casts, also called pseudonits or hair casts, are thin, elongated, greyish‐white, cylindrical, sleeve‐like structures that encircle the hair shaft and can easily be slid along the hair. They may be clinically misdiagnosed as nits. In addition to physical removal, keratolytic lotions or shampoos are helpful. We report an 11‐year‐old girl with pseudonits. Although it is not a rare condition, underdiagnosis is common.
Serum‐Level Changes of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Children with Infantile Hemangioma after Oral Propranolol Therapy
Authors: Chen Xiao Dong , Ma Gang , Huang Jin Long , Chen Hui , Jin Yun Bo , Ye Xiao Xiao , Hu Xiao Jie , Lin Xiao Xi
Published: August 2013

Oral propranolol is the first‐line therapy for infantile hemangioma (IH), but its mechanism of action remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in patients with IH who underwent propranolol treatment. The study included 22 patients with IH receiving propranolol treatment. At three time points—before treatment and 1 and 3 months after treatment—blood samples were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for serum VEGF expression. The mean serum VEGF concentration in children with proliferative hemangiomas was 395.0 ± 176.7 pg/mL, approximately twice as high as in patients with venous malformations (mean 170.7 pg/mL) and in healthy controls (204.8 pg/mL, p = 0.006). After 1 month of propranolol treatment, the level had fallen 21.6% (p = 0.003), although the downward trend was less obvious after 3 months of treatment (18.0%, p = 0.63). VEGF expression correlated significantly with the lesion size (correlation coefficient [R] = 0.43, p = 0.046), whereas no correlation was observed with age (R = 0.13, p = 0.56). Serum VEGF levels were higher in patients with IH and fell after 1 month of oral propranolol treatment. Similar results, although less pronounced, were found after 3 months of treatment. Lesion volume and serum level of VEGF were significantly correlated.
Neonatal lupus erythematosus complicated by improved congenital complete heart block
Authors: Isayama Tetsuya , Inamura Noboru , Shiono Nobuko , Kitajima Hiroyuki
Published: August 2013

Complete congenital heart block (CCHB) accompanied with neonatal lupus erythematosus is caused by an immune reaction between maternal anti‐Ro/SSA antibodies and the fetal heart and is generally considered an irreversible process. This reaction mostly occurs before 30 weeks' gestation, especially between the 20th and 24th week. Reported here is an atypical case of neonatal lupus erythematosus with CCHB detected after 32 weeks' gestation that showed postnatal improvement in the degree of heart block after preterm delivery and immunoglobulin use. The clinical condition of the infant worsened with an increase in heart rate due to possible cardiomyopathy induced by the immune reaction.
Giardiasis in a patient undergoing chemotherapy for retinoblastoma and acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Otsubo Keisuke , Sakaki‐Nakatsubo Hisano , Taneichi Hiromichi , Nomura Keiko , Miyawaki Toshio , Tokoro Masaharu , Kanegane Hirokazu
Published: August 2013

Giardiasis is a common cause of diarrhea in undeveloped countries, but is very rare in developed countries. A patient with acute myelogenous leukemia and retinoblastoma presented with a high fever and severe watery diarrhea during induction chemotherapy. On microscopy, cysts were seen in her stool, suggesting Giardia intestinalis, which was confirmed on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). G. intestinalis was also detected in the patient's asymptomatic parents, who may have transmitted it to the patient. Giardiasis should be tested for in patients with severe and persistent diarrhea during chemotherapy, when other etiologies have been excluded. PCR used to amplify the DNA of G. intestinalis is rapid and sensitive.
Rectal duplications accompanying rectovestibular fistula: Report of two cases
Authors: Pampal Arzu , Ozbayoglu Asli , Kaya Cem , Pehlivan Yildiz , Poyraz Aylar , Ozen I. Onur , Percin Ferda E. , Demirogullari Billur
Published: August 2013

Rectal duplication (RD) cysts are rare congenital anomalies that can be diagnosed with the presence of another opening in the perineum. They seldom accompany anorectal malformations (ARM). Two cases of RD accompanying ARM at opposite ends of the phenotypic spectrum, are described. A 3‐month‐old baby and a 2‐year‐old girl with ARM were scheduled for posterior sagittal anorectoplasty. The infant had an orifice at the anal dimple and the other had an orifice at the vestibulum posterior to the rectovestibular fistula. The infant presented with no other anomalies whereas the older one presented with an unusual coexistence of caudal duplication and caudal regression syndromes. Perioperatively both orifices were found to be related to retrorectal cysts, and were excised. Clinicians should always be alert when dealing with complex malformations. Because these malformations have variable anatomical and clinical presentations, they can represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Management of advanced‐stage neuroblastoma in a patient with 21‐hydroxalase deficiency
Authors: Utsunomiya Akari N , Okada Satoshi , Hara Keiichi , Miki Mizuka , Mizoguchi Yoko , Kobayashi Yoshiyuki , Miyagawa Shinichiro , Jinno Kazuhiko , Nakamura Kazuhiro , Sato Takashi , Kobayashi Masao
Published: August 2013

A 2‐year‐old boy presented with a 21‐hydroxylase deficiency, associated with advanced‐stage neuroblastoma primarily occurring in the left adrenal gland. He required intensive chemotherapy with polypharmacy, followed by cord blood stem cell transplantation to treat the neuroblastoma. The precise adjustment of cortisol levels was crucial in this patient to prevent adrenal crisis. We administered hydrocortisone by continuous infusion while monitoring blood cortisol levels. As there are no published reports on the target cortisol levels for children, we used two control infants with advanced‐stage neuroblastoma, also undergoing chemotherapy and cord blood stem cell transplantation, to guide the continuous hydrocortisone therapy. The daily dose of hydrocortisone during chemotherapy required about threefold the normal treatment to avoid adrenal insufficiency. Continuous hydrocortisone therapy is feasible for preventing adrenal crisis and this report may provide an effective management for hydrocortisone replacement in 21‐hydroxylase‐deficient patients undergoing chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Co‐existence of renovascular hypertension, polyarteritis nodosa, antiphospholipid syndrome and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase mutation
Authors: Yildiz Bilal , Cetin Nuran , Kural Nurdan , Kaya Tamer , Akcar Nevbahar
Published: August 2013

We present a hypertensive child with a co‐existence of polyarteritis nodosa, anti‐phospholipid antibodies (aPL), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation and increased lipoprotein a level. Elevated renin, aldosterone and aPL levels, micro‐aneurysms, occlusion and thrombosis at left and right renal artery were found. Anti‐hypertensive agents, prednisolone and pulse cyclophosphamide therapy were started and a stent was inserted in the left renal artery. Two months later, brain magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance imaging angiography showed acute infarct area of the left parietofrontal lobe and middle cerebral artery stenosis. We found bilateral peripheral neuropathy, persistent aPL and elevated Lp(a) level and heterozygous A1298C/MTHFR mutation. Intravenous immunoglobulin and low‐molecular‐weight heparin treatment was added. In conclusion, our observation suggests that in patients with systemic vasculitis, such as polyarteritis nodosa, aPL are probably associated with greater thrombotic risks. The investigation of the LP(a) levels and MTHFR mutations as a synergic pro‐coagulant effect might also be considered for determining patients with vasculitis at risk for severe thrombotic events.
The adipokinetic hormones of African water bugs of the Heteropteran families Nepidae and Belostomatidae
Authors: GÄDE GERD , MARCO HEATHER G.
Published: August 2013

Four African species of true water bugs (Nepomorpha: Hemiptera: Heteroptera) are studied by mass spectrometry and biological assays to gain information on the presence, structure and function of peptides from the adipokinetic hormone (AKH) family, which are produced in the corpora cardiaca (CC). The water scorpion Laccotrephes fabricii Stål (Nepidae) has the peptide code‐named Peram‐CAH‐I with the sequence pGlu‐Val‐Asn‐Phe‐Ser‐Pro‐Asn‐Trp amide, whereas Appasus grassei Poisson (Belostomatidae) produces Anaim‐AKH, which is a Ser7 analogue of Peram‐CAH‐I (pGlu‐Val‐Asn‐Phe‐Ser‐Pro‐Ser‐Trp amide). The giant water bug Hydrocyrius columbiae Spinola (Belostomatidae) has two adipokinetic hormone family members: Anaim‐AKH and Letin‐AKH, which again differ only at position 7 (Ser7 versus Tyr7). When the sequence data are compared with current molecular phylogenetic analyses of Nepomorpha, they are essentially in agreement with the newest ideas on phylogenetic relationships among the families. Functional investigation of these peptides reveals a mainly lipid‐based energy metabolism in these insects, as demonstrated by a hyperlipaemic response after injecting crude CC extract or the appropriate peptide into the respective species. The carbohydrate concentration in the haemolymph is not affected by such injections, and the carbohydrate level in most cases is lower than that of the circulating lipids. During physical exercise, such as swimming for 1 h, carbohydrates may contribute to some extent to the provision of energy; the substantial increase in the concentration of lipids in the haemolymph, however, is a strong indicator that the peptides are released from the CC and act primarily as true adipokinetic hormones during this period of intense muscular activity.
Gender Differences in Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions to Vaccines: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Griffioen Mari , Halsey Neal
Published: August 2013

Objective

To examine published studies of immediate hypersensitivity reactions (IHS) following vaccination and to determine whether women are at an increased risk of developing IHS after vaccination.

Design and Sample

PubMed was reviewed for vaccine articles reporting IHS by gender through June 2012. Data were abstracted on type of study, vaccine, hypersensitivity reaction, and statistic reported.

Measures

Articles were included if they described experimental, quasi‐experimental, correlational or descriptive studies and IHS was reported by gender.

Results

Of 847 articles found in PubMed, 11 met the inclusion criteria. In eight studies, more women than men reported IHS, in two studies more men than women reported IHS and in one study the count was even.

Conclusion

Limited data from these studies suggest that women may have higher rates of IHS reactions following vaccination than men. Limitations to the available data include the lack of denominator data and that the definition of IHS was not consistent across the studies. Large‐scale population‐based studies are indicated to determine if there are differences in rates by gender and biologic basis for these differences.
Distance to Frontier and New Import Growth
Authors: Mukerji Purba
Published: August 2013

In a panel‐data study involving product‐level import data for 48 developing countries that underwent substantial trade liberalization between 1989 and 2001, this study finds that the growth of trade in new goods imported following major trade liberalization is related to the state of technology that existed just before liberalization. The study develops two new measures of the extensive margin. Findings indicate that greater is the distance of a country from the world technology frontier, the faster is its growth of new goods imports. This indicates a higher cost of trade protection for countries further away from the world technology frontier.
With Whom and Where You Play: Preschoolers' Social Context Predicts Peer Victimization
Authors: Andrews Naomi C. Z. , Hanish Laura D. , Fabes Richard A. , Martin Carol Lynn
Published: August 2013

This short‐term longitudinal study assessed the relations between the social context of children's play (playgroup size, playgroup gender composition, and play setting) in the fall and peer victimization in the spring for low‐income, minority, preschool girls and boys. Gender differences in these associations, as well as the moderating effect of children's individual problem behavior, were considered. Using a multiple‐brief observation procedure, preschoolers' (N= 255, 49 percent girls) naturally occurring play in each type of social context was recorded throughout the fall semester. Observers also rated children's victimization and problem behaviors in the fall, and teachers rated children's victimization at the end of the school year. Findings suggested that social context variables predicted spring victimization above and beyond fall victimization and individual levels of problem behavior, and that these associations varied for boys and girls. The findings signify the importance of the social context on changes in peer victimization.
Evaluation of risk factors for vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus bacteremia among previously colonized hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Kang Y. , Vicente M. , Parsad S. , Brielmeier B. , Pisano J. , Landon E. , Pettit N.N.
Published: August 2013

Background

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients colonized with vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus (VRE) may have an increased risk of developing VRE bacteremia. Identification of risk factors for the development of subsequent VRE bacteremia among colonized HSCT recipients is necessary to predict which patients may benefit the most from receiving anti‐VRE antibiotic therapy as part of an initial antimicrobial regimen when gram‐positive bacteremia is suspected.

Methods

This study was a retrospective chart review conducted from May 2008 to May 2011. Adult HSCT patients admitted to the hospital found to have positive VRE surveillance cultures were included. A multivariate analysis was completed to identify risk factors for the development of VRE bacteremia in the study population.

Results

Of 152 patients, 19 (13%) patients developed subsequent VRE bacteremia. Risk factors identified for patients with current VRE colonization for VRE bacteremia were the utilization of vancomycin subsequent to VRE surveillance culture positivity (P = 0.017), prolonged duration of neutropenia (P = 0.001), immunosuppression (P < 0.001), and timing of first VRE surveillance screen positivity at week 1 (P = 0.005). A history of VRE colonization on a prior admission was not an independent risk factor for bacteremia in HSCT patients (P = 1.0). HSCT patients with VRE bacteremia had a 30‐day all‐cause inpatient mortality rate of 29% (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

HSCT patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, who have been exposed to vancomycin subsequent to surveillance culture positivity, have had prolonged neutropenia of >30 days, or first surveillance culture positive at week 1 of admission are potential candidates for early implementation of anti‐VRE therapy when a gram‐positive bacteremia is suspected.
A DYW‐protein knockout in Physcomitrella affects two closely spaced mitochondrial editing sites and causes a severe developmental phenotype
Authors: Schallenberg‐Rüdinger Mareike , Kindgren Peter , Zehrmann Anja , Small Ian , Knoop Volker
Published: August 2013

RNA‐binding pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins carrying a carboxy‐terminal DYW domain similar to cytidine deaminases have been characterized as site‐specific factors for C‐to‐U RNA editing in plant organelles. Here we report that knockout of DYW‐PPR_65 in Physcomitrella patens causes a severe developmental phenotype in the moss and specifically affects two editing sites located 18 nucleotides apart on the mitochondrial ccmFC mRNA. Intriguingly, PPR_71, another DYW‐type PPR, had been identified previously as an editing factor specifically affecting only the downstream editing site, ccmFCeU122SF. The now characterized PPR_65 binds specifically only to the upstream target site, ccmFCeU103PS, in full agreement with a recent RNA‐recognition code for PPR arrays. The functional interference between the two editing events may be caused by a combination of three factors: (i) the destabilization of an RNA secondary structure interfering with PPR_71 binding by prior binding of PPR_65; (ii) the resulting upstream C–U conversion; or (iii) a direct interaction between the two DYW proteins. Indeed, we find the Physcomitrella DYW‐PPRs to interact in yeast‐two‐hybrid assays. The moss DYW‐PPRs also interact yet more strongly with MORF (Multiple Organellar RNA editing Factor)/RIP (RNA editing factor interacting proteins) proteins of Arabidopsis known to be general editing factors in flowering plants, although MORF homologues are entirely absent in the moss. Finally, we demonstrate binding of Physcomitrella DYW‐PPR_98, for which no KO lines could be raised, to its predicted target sequence upstream of editing site atp9eU92SL. Together with the functional characterization of DYW‐PPR_65, this completes the assignment of RNA editing factors to all editing sites in the Physcomitrella mitochondrial transcriptome.
Sky Islands of the Cameroon Volcanic Line: a diversification hot spot for puddle frogs (Phrynobatrachidae: Phrynobatrachus)
Authors: Zimkus Breda M. , Gvoždík Václav
Published: August 2013

The continental highlands of the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) represent biological ‘sky islands’ with high levels of species richness and endemism, providing the ideal opportunity to understand how orogenesis and historical climate change influenced species diversity and distribution in these isolated African highlands. Relationships of puddle frogs (Phrynobatrachus) endemic to the CVL are reconstructed to examine the patterns and timing of puddle frog diversification. Historical distributions were reconstructed using both elevation and geography data. Puddle frogs diversified in the CVL via several dispersal and vicariance events, with most of the locally endemic species distributed across the northern part of the montane forest area in the Bamenda‐Banso Highlands (Bamboutos Mts., Mt. Lefo, Mt. Mbam, Mt. Oku and medium elevation areas connecting these mountains). Two new species, P. jimzimkusi sp. n. and P. njiomock sp. n., are also described based on molecular analyses and morphological examination. We find that these new species are most closely related to one another and P. steindachneri with the ranges of all three species overlapping at Mt. Oku. Phrynobatrachus jimzimkusi sp. n. is distributed in the southern portion of the continental CVL, P. njiomock sp. n. is endemic to Mt. Oku, and P. steindachneri is present in the northeastern part of the montane forest area. Both new species can be distinguished from all other puddle frogs by a combination of morphological characters, including their large size, ventral coloration and secondary sexual characteristics present in males. These results highlight the Bamenda‐Banso Highlands, and specifically emphasize Mt. Oku, as a centre of diversification for puddle frogs, supporting the conservation importance of this region. Our results also provide new insights into the evolutionary processes shaping the CVL ‘sky islands’, demonstrating that lineage diversification in these montane amphibians is significantly older than expected with most species diverging from their closest relative in the Miocene. Whereas climatic changes during the Pliocene and Pleistocene shaped intraspecific diversification, most speciation events were significantly older and cannot be linked to Africa's aridification in response to Pleistocene climate fluctuations.
Organic–inorganic hybrid gate dielectric for solution-processed ZnO thin film transistors
Authors: Oh Ji-Young , Lim Sang-Chul , Yeon Kim Joo , Am Kim Chul , Cho Kyoung-Ik , Deok Ahn Seong , Bon Koo Jae , Yoon Sung-Min
Published: August 2013

The preparation of a hybrid dielectric film was carried out by blending sol–gel-derived sodium beta alumina (SBA) and poly(4-vinylphenol) (PVP) to enhance the capacitance of a gate dielectric film. PVP-SBA was cured at a temperature sufficiently low enough to apply to a plastic substrate, while maintaining good electrical properties and uniformity. Addition of sol–gel-derived SBA improved the film density, resulting in good PVP-SBA thermal stability. The prepared PVP-SBA was used for high-performance aqueous solution-based ZnO transistors at 200 °C.
Measurement of neutron dose equivalent outside and inside of the treatment vault of GRID therapy
Authors: Wang Xudong , Charlton Michael A. , Esquivel Carlos , Eng Tony Y. , Li Ying , Papanikolaou Nikos
Published: August 2013

Purpose

: To evaluate the neutron and photon dose equivalent rates at the treatment vault entrance (Hn,D and HG), and to study the secondary radiation to the patient in GRID therapy. The radiation activation on the grid was studied.

Methods:

A Varian Clinac 23EX accelerator was working at 18 MV mode with a grid manufactured by .decimal, Inc. The Hn,D and HG were measured using an Andersson–Braun neutron REM meter, and a Geiger Müller counter. The radiation activation on the grid was measured after the irradiation with an ion chamber γ‐ray survey meter. The secondary radiation dose equivalent to patient was evaluated by etched track detectors and OSL detectors on a RANDO® phantom.

Results

: Within the measurement uncertainty, there is no significant difference between the Hn,D and HG with and without a grid. However, the neutron dose equivalent to the patient with the grid is, on average, 35.3% lower than that without the grid when using the same field size and the same amount of monitor unit. The photon dose equivalent to the patient with the grid is, on average, 44.9% lower. The measured average half‐life of the radiation activation in the grid is 12.0 (±0.9) min. The activation can be categorized into a fast decay component and a slow decay component with half‐lives of 3.4 (±1.6) min and 15.3 (±4.0) min, respectively. There was no detectable radioactive contamination found on the surface of the grid through a wipe test.

Conclusions

: This work indicates that there is no significant change of the Hn,D and HG in GRID therapy, compared with a conventional external beam therapy. However, the neutron and scattered photon dose equivalent to the patient decrease dramatically with the grid and can be clinical irrelevant. Meanwhile, the users of a grid should be aware of the possible high dose to the radiation worker from the radiation activation on the surface of the grid. A delay in handling the grid after the beam delivery is suggested.
Simultaneous optimization of dose distributions and fractionation schemes in particle radiotherapy
Authors: Unkelbach Jan , Zeng Chuan , Engelsman Martijn
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

The paper considers the fractionation problem in intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT). Conventionally, IMPT fields are optimized independently of the fractionation scheme. In this work, we discuss the simultaneous optimization of fractionation scheme and pencil beam intensities.

Methods:

This is performed by allowing for distinct pencil beam intensities in each fraction, which are optimized using objective and constraint functions based on biologically equivalent dose (BED). The paper presents a model that mimics an IMPT treatment with a single incident beam direction for which the optimal fractionation scheme can be determined despite the nonconvexity of the BED‐based treatment planning problem.

Results:

For this model, it is shown that a small α/β ratio in the tumor gives rise to a hypofractionated treatment, whereas a large α/β ratio gives rise to hyperfractionation. It is further demonstrated that, for intermediate α/β ratios in the tumor, a nonuniform fractionation scheme emerges, in which it is optimal to deliver different dose distributions in subsequent fractions. The intuitive explanation for this phenomenon is as follows: By varying the dose distribution in the tumor between fractions, the same total BED can be achieved with a lower physical dose. If it is possible to achieve this dose variation in the tumor without varying the dose in the normal tissue (which would have an adverse effect), the reduction in physical dose may lead to a net reduction of the normal tissue BED. For proton therapy, this is indeed possible to some degree because the entrance dose is mostly independent of the range of the proton pencil beam.

Conclusions:

The paper provides conceptual insight into the interdependence of optimal fractionation schemes and the spatial optimization of dose distributions. It demonstrates the emergence of nonuniform fractionation schemes that arise from the standard BED model when IMPT fields and fractionation scheme are optimized simultaneously. Although the projected benefits are likely to be small, the approach may give rise to an improved therapeutic ratio for tumors treated with stereotactic techniques to high doses per fraction.
Integration of advanced 3D SPECT modeling into the open‐source STIR framework
Authors: Fuster Berta Marti , Falcon Carles , Tsoumpas Charalampos , Livieratos Lefteris , Aguiar Pablo , Cot Albert , Ros Domenec , Thielemans Kris
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

The Software for Tomographic Image Reconstruction (STIR,http://stir.sourceforge.net) package is an open source object‐oriented library implemented in C++. Although its modular design is suitable for reconstructing data from several modalities, it currently only supports Positron Emission Tomography (PET) data. In this work, the authors present results for Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) imaging.

Methods:

This was achieved by the complete integration of a 3D SPECT system matrix modeling library into STIR.

Results:

The authors demonstrate the flexibility of the combined software by reconstructing simulated and acquired projections from three different scanners with different iterative algorithms of STIR.

Conclusions:

The extension of the open source STIR project with advanced SPECT modeling will enable the research community to study the performance of several algorithms on SPECT data, and potentially implement new algorithms by expanding the existing framework.
Detection and differential diagnosis of suspected malignant transformation of an endometrioma during pregnancy
Authors: Chaudhry Shivani , Glanc Phyllis , Salem Shia
Published: August 2013

Asymptomatic female in her early 30s presented for her singleton nuchal translucency ultrasound at 12.4 weeks of gestational age. No fetal abnormalities were seen. A large maternal left adnexal mass was identified, prompting a transvaginal ultrasound. The findings were felt to be consistent with an endometrioma, albeit with a 1 cm solid nodule. At this point, the diagnosis was considered to likely represent a decidualised endometrioma; however, warranting careful follow-up. The 20-week anatomy scan demonstrated an enlarging solid nodule that now contained vascularity within the left adnexal mass prompting an MRI. These features were more suggestive of malignancy, although a decidualised endometrioma, which can demonstrate intrapartum growth and vascularity, remained in the differential. Intrapartum sonographic surveillance documented progressive growth. The lesion was uneventfully removed at the time of delivery. Pathology showed clear cell carcinoma within an endometrioma.
A rare presentation of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis associated with tubercular meningitis
Authors: Verma Rajesh , Lalla Rakesh , Patil Tushar B , Tiwari Navin
Published: August 2013

Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis may manifest as meningitis, meningoencephalitis, tuberculoma, tubercular abscess, stroke due to tuberculous vasculitis and tuberculous encephalopathy. Occasionally, tubercular meningitis (TBM) can predispose to cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). We report a young man, who developed CVST as a complication of TBM. Worsening of pre-existing headache, impairment of consciousness and seizures should raise suspicion of CVST in any patient with CNS infection. Early diagnosis and appropriate clinical management are important for good outcome.
First evidence of asymptomatic infection related to the Araucaria (Juquitiba-like) hantavirus
Authors: Borba Luana de , Delfraro Adriana , Raboni Sonia M , Duarte dos Santos Claudia Nunes
Published: August 2013

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a severe disease, transmitted to humans by inhalation of virus-contaminated aerosols from rodent excreta. Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory data confirmed a fatal HPS case and an asymptomatic infection in a household contact, both caused by Araucaria hantavirus, which has previously been found only in patients with HPS. This is the first report of asymptomatic infection related to a pathogenic hantavirus genotype, highlighting the need for additional studies on characterisation of viral and genetic mechanisms associated with this disease.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia and pregnancy
Authors: Shorakae Soulmaz , Teede Helena
Published: August 2013

A 32-year-old woman with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) secondary to 21-hydroxylase deficiency presented with infertility. She was treated with different steroid replacement regimens together with fludrocortisone. The aim of this case report is to discuss fertility barriers in women with classical CAH, and emphasise the risks and benefits of available steroid treatment options. Clinical considerations covered include preconception health and fertility planning, optimising fertility through suppression of excess hormone production, reducing fetal androgen exposure in utero and limiting maternal and fetal side effects of therapy and limiting chances of CAH in the baby. In this case suppression of androgen and progesterone levels was challenging but eventually was achieved and resulted in a spontaneous pregnancy. However, she miscarried in the first trimester, and fetal biopsy revealed a complete hydatiform mole. She is advised not to conceive while she is under investigation to determine the extent of the disease.
Late relapse of progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy postallogenic transplant in a young patient with CLL
Authors: Sanchez-Quintana Ana , Breña-Atienza Joaquín , Marrero-Santos Carmen , Alvarez-Acosta Luis
Published: August 2013

We describe a case of progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy (PML) in a 39-year-old patient diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) who underwent two allogenic matched-sibling stem cell transplantations. PML was confirmed just after the first transplantation with cerebral MRI and by PCR in the cerebrospinal fluid. After immunosuppression withdrawal and cidofovir treatment, he achieved a reversal of clinical symptoms, John Cunningham (JC) virus positivity and MRI lesions regression. He remained asymptomatic for 5 years with no signs of infection activity, even though he received three new chemotherapy regimens due to a CLL relapse. However, after the second stem cell transplantation, new neurological symptoms began and a reactivation of the JC virus infection was detected. This time, treatment with mefloquine was started, but he experienced a progressive neurological deterioration and died 1 month after the symptoms began.
Recurrent confusional episodes associated with hypomagnesaemia due to esomeprazol
Authors: Delgado Montserrat G , Calleja Sergio , Suarez Lorena , Pascual Julio
Published: August 2013

In February 2011, the Food and Drug Administration informed that prescription of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs may cause low serum magnesium levels if taken for prolonged periods of time. We present an ex-smoker, 76-year-old man, with high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and Barrett's oesophagus (treated with esomeprazole since 2003) admitted due to fluctuating aphasia. Neurovascular and neuroimaging studies were normal. Dyslipidemia and atrial arrhythmia were discovered. The patient was discharged with the diagnosis of left middle cerebral artery transient ischaemic attack and anticoagulation treatment was recommended. The patient returned to the emergency department on further two occasions (confusional episodes) and was admitted in order to complete the neurological study that was normal. The patient was discharged with the diagnosis of probable epileptic seizures. After a week, he was admitted due to generalised temblor and unsteadiness. A complete blood test was performed and showed a severe hypomagnesaemia (not previously performed).
CNCTDISCRIMINATOR: CODING AND NONCODING TRANSCRIPT DISCRIMINATOR — AN EXCURSION THROUGH HYPOTHESIS LEARNING AND ENSEMBLE LEARNING APPROACHES
Authors: BISWAS ASHIS KUMER , ZHANG BAOJU , WU XIAOYONG , GAO JEAN X.
Published: August 2013

The statistics about the open reading frames, the base compositions and the properties of the predicted secondary structures have potential to address the problem of discriminating coding and noncoding transcripts. Again, the Next Generation Sequencing platform, RNA-seq, provides us bounty of data from which expression profiles of the transcripts can be extracted which urged us adding a new set of dimension in this classification task. In this paper, we proposed CNCTDiscriminator — a coding and noncoding transcript discriminating system where we applied the integration of these four categories of features about the transcripts. The feature integration was done using both hypothesis learning and feature specific ensemble learning approaches. The CNCTDiscriminator model which was trained with composition and ORF features outperforms (precision 83.86%, recall 82.01%) other three popular methods — CPC (precision 98.31%, recall 25.95%), CPAT (precision 97.74%, recall 52.50%) and PORTRAIT (precision 84.37%, recall 73.2%) when applied to an independent benchmark dataset. However, the CNCTDiscriminator model that was trained using the ensemble approach shows comparable performance (precision 89.85%, recall 71.08%).
THE LOG-BEHAVIOR OF THE CATALAN–LARCOMBE–FRENCH SEQUENCE
Authors: ZHAO FENG-ZHEN
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we discuss the log-behavior of the Catalan–Larcombe–French sequence {Pn}n≥0. We prove that {Pn}n≥0 is log-balanced and {Pn/(n!)2}n≥0 is unimodal. In addition, we show that {Pk/k!}0≤k≤n is reverse ultra log-concave.
Chemical Signaling Between Plants and Plant-Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Venturi Vittorio , Fuqua Clay
Published: August 2013

Studies of chemical signaling between plants and bacteria in the past have been largely confined to two models: the rhizobial-legume symbiotic association and pathogenesis between agrobacteria and their host plants. Recent studies are beginning to provide evidence that many plant-associated bacteria undergo chemical signaling with the plant host via low-molecular-weight compounds. Plant-produced compounds interact with bacterial regulatory proteins that then affect gene expression. Similarly, bacterial quorum-sensing signals result in a range of functional responses in plants. This review attempts to highlight current knowledge in chemical signaling that takes place between pathogenic bacteria and plants. This chemical communication between plant and bacteria, also referred to as interkingdom signaling, will likely become a major research field in the future, as it allows the design of specific strategies to create plants that are resistant to plant pathogens.
Trichoderma Research in the Genome Era
Authors: Mukherjee Prasun K. , Horwitz Benjamin A. , Herrera-Estrella Alfredo , Schmoll Monika , Kenerley Charles M.
Published: August 2013

Trichoderma species are widely used in agriculture and industry as biopesticides and sources of enzymes, respectively. These fungi reproduce asexually by production of conidia and chlamydospores and in wild habitats by ascospores. Trichoderma species are efficient mycoparasites and prolific producers of secondary metabolites, some of which have clinical importance. However, the ecological or biological significance of this metabolite diversity is sorely lagging behind the chemical significance. Many strains produce elicitors and induce resistance in plants through colonization of roots. Seven species have now been sequenced. Comparison of a primarily saprophytic species with two mycoparasitic species has provided striking contrasts and has established that mycoparasitism is an ancestral trait of this genus. Among the interesting outcomes of genome comparison is the discovery of a vast repertoire of secondary metabolism pathways and of numerous small cysteine-rich secreted proteins. Genomics has also facilitated investigation of sexual crossing in Trichoderma reesei, suggesting the possibility of strain improvement through hybridization.
The Challenge of Delivering Therapeutic Aerosols to Asthma Patients
Authors: Lavorini Federico
Published: August 2013

The number of people with asthma continues to grow around the world, and asthma remains a poorly controlled disease despite the availability of management guidelines and highly effective medication. Patient noncompliance with therapy is a major reason for poor asthma control. Patients fail to comply with their asthma regimen for a wide variety of reasons, but incorrect use of inhaler devices is amongst the most common. The pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) is still the most frequently used device worldwide, but many patients fail to use it correctly, even after repeated tuition. Breath-actuated inhalers are easier to use than pMDIs. The rationale behind inhaler choice should be evidence based rather than empirical. When choosing an inhaler device, it is essential that it is easy to use correctly, dosing is consistent, adequate drug is deposited in both central and peripheral airways, and that drug deposition is independent of airflow. Regular checking of inhalation technique is crucial, as correct inhalation is one of the cornerstones of successful asthma management.
Derailing the UPS of Protein Turnover in Cancer and other Human Diseases
Authors: Cheong Jit Kong , Hsu Stephen I-Hong
Published: August 2013

Protein modifications by the covalent linkage of ubiquitin have significant involvement in many cellular processes, including stress response, oncogenesis, viral infection, transcription, protein turnover, organelle biogenesis, DNA repair, cellular differentiation, and cell cycle control. We provide a brief overview of the fundamentals of the regulation of protein turnover by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and discuss new therapeutic strategies that aim to mitigate the deleterious effects of its dysregulation in cancer and other human disease pathophysiology.
Solving a Signalized Traffic Intersection Problem with NLP Solvers
Authors: Melo Teófilo Miguel M. , Matias João Luís H. , Monteiro M. Teresa T.
Published: August 2013

Mathematical Programs with Complementarity Constraints (MPCC) finds many applications in areas such as engineering design, economic equilibrium, and mathematical theory itself. In this work, we
consider a queuing system model resulting from a single signalized traffic intersection regulated by pretimed control in an urban traffic network. The model is formulated as an MPCC problem and may be used to ascertain the optimal cycle and the green split allocation. This MPCC problem is also formulated as its NLP equivalent reformulation. The goal of this work is to solve the problem, using both MPCC and NLP formulations, minimizing two objective functions: the average queue length over all queues and the average waiting time over the worst queue. The problem was codified in AMPL and solved using some optimization software packages.
Stability-Indicating Validated Novel RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Methylparaben, Ketoconazole, and Mometasone Furoate in Topical Pharmaceutical Dosage Formulation
Authors: Roy Chinmoy , Chakrabarty Jitamanyu
Published: August 2013

A simple, specific, precise, and accurate RP-HPLC method has been developed and validated for simultaneous estimation of Methylparaben (MP), Ketoconazole (KT), and Mometasone Furoate (MF) topical pharmaceutical dosage formulation. The separation was achieved by Waters X Terra C18 column using mobile phase consisting of buffer (triethyl amine in water, pH adjusted to 6.5 with glacial acetic acid)-acetonitrile (40 : 60, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min and detection at 250 nm. The method showed linearity with correlation coefficient <0.9999 over the range of 0.12–15.2 μg/mL, 0.67–149.4 μg/mL, and 0.42–7.6 μg/mL for MP, KT, and MF, respectively. The mean recoveries were found to be in the range of 99.9–101.1% for all the components. The method was validated as per the ICH guidelines for linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy, precision, robustness and solution stability. Stability indicating capability of the developed method was established by analyzing forced degradation of samples in which spectral purity of MP, KT, and MF along with separation of degradation products from analytes peak was achieved. The method can be successfully applied for routine analysis of quantitative determination of MP, KT, and MF in pharmaceutical dosage form.
Report of a Case of Radiation-Induced New-Onset Vitiligo with Collective Review of Cases in the Literature of Radiation-Related Vitiligo
Authors: Pavithran Keechilat , Pande Shripad Brahmanand , Dinesh Makuny
Published: August 2013

Radiation-induced hypopigmentation consistent vitiligo has been reported in a few case reports. We report herewith a case of vitiligo at the site of radiation delivery after a lag of several months in a patient with preexisting hypothyroidism without a previous or family history of vitiligo, and review the cases reported in the literature collectively.
Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in a Patient with Clinically Isolated Spinal Cord Syndrome
Authors: Al-Hashel Jasem Yousef , Ahmed Samar Farouk , Alexander K. J. , Ahmed Walaa
Published: August 2013

Background. The association between cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) and multiple sclerosis (MS) has already been reported in patients with clinically definite MS in relation to intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) or previously performed lumbar puncture (LP).Case Summery. We report a 29-year-old Indian female who presented with a clinically isolated spinal cord syndrome according to the revised 2010 McDonald Criteria. She developed CVT after a lumbar puncture and two days of finishing the course of IVMP.Conclusion. We conclude that the sequence of doing lumbar puncture followed by high-dose IVMP may increase the risk of CVT. A prophylactic anticoagulation may be indicated in this setting.
Key Diagnostic Finding in a Condition with Variable Clinical Presentations
Authors: Sukumaran Anju , Buchlis John
Published: August 2013

This is an interesting case series on a very common genetic condition which are often diagnosed late as clinical signs are inconspicuous. We would like to highlight the principal clinical examination finding which led to diagnosis.
Continuous Finite-Time Terminal Sliding Mode IDA-PBC Design for PMSM with the Port-Controlled Hamiltonian Model
Authors: Yu Shuanghe , Jin Lina , Zheng Kai , Du Jialu
Published: August 2013

Finite-time control scheme for speed regulation of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is investigated under the port-controlled Hamiltonian (PCH), terminal sliding mode (TSM), and fast TSM stabilization theories. The desired equilibrium is assigned to the PCH structure model of PMSM by maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) principle, and the desired Hamiltonian function of state error is constructed in the form of fractional power structure as TSM and fast TSM, respectively. Finite-time TSM and fast TSM controllers are designed via interconnection and damping assignment passivity-based control (IDA-PBC) methodology, respectively, and the finite-time stability of the desired equilibrium point is also achieved under the PCH framework. Simulation results validate the improved performance of the presented scheme.
I-V Characteristics of PtxCo1−x (x = 0.2, 0.5, and 0.7) Thin Films
Authors: Erkovan M. , Şentürk E. , Şahin Y. , Okutan M.
Published: August 2013

Three different chemical ratios of PtxCo1−x thin films were grown on p‐type native oxide Si (100) by Magneto Sputtering System with cosputtering technique at 350°C temperature to investigate electrical prosperities. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis technique was used to specify chemical ratios of these films. The current‐voltage (I-V) measurements of metal‐semiconductor (MS) Schottky diodes were carried out at room temperature. From the I-V analysis of the samples, ideality factor (n), barrier height (ϕ), and contact resistance values were determined by using thermionic emission (TE) theory. Some important parameters such as barrier height, ideality factor, and serial resistance were calculated from the I-V characteristics based on thermionic emission mechanism. The ideality factors of the samples were not much greater than unity, and the serial resistances of the samples were also very low.
Klebsiella pneumoniaeRenal Abscess Syndrome: A Rare Case with Metastatic Involvement of Lungs, Eye, and Brain
Authors: Dubey Divyanshu , Raza Fayez S. , Sawhney Anshudha , Pandey Ambarish
Published: August 2013

We describe a rare case ofKlebsiella pneumoniaerenal abscess with metastatic spread leading to endopthalmitis, pulmonary cavitary lesions, and cerebral emboli in a 41-year-old Hispanic female with diabetes mellitus who presented with a four-to-five-day history of fevers, headache, eye pain, and vomiting. She was treated with IV antibiotics and made a gradual but full recovery.