bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IgG-Mediated Immune Suppression to Erythrocytes by Polyclonal Antibodies Can Occur in the Absence of Activating or Inhibitory Fcγ Receptors in a Full Mouse Model
Authors: Bernardo Lidice , Yu Honghui , Amash Alaa , Zimring James C. , Lazarus Alan H.
Published: July 2015

Polyclonal anti-D has been used to prevent RhD-negative mothers from becoming immunized against RhD positive fetal erythrocytes, and this mechanism has been referred as Ab or IgG-mediated immune suppression (AMIS). Although anti-D has been highly successful, the inhibitory mechanisms remain poorly understood. Two major theories behind AMIS involve the binding of IgG to activating or inhibitory FcγR, which can induce either erythrocyte clearance or immune inhibition, respectively. In this work, we explored the absolute role of activating and inhibitory FcγR in the AMIS mechanism using the HOD mouse model of RBC immunization. HOD mice contain a RBC-specific recombinant protein composed of hen egg lysozyme (HEL), OVA and human transmembrane Duffy Ag, and erythrocytes from HOD mice can stimulate an immune response to HEL. To assess the contribution of activating and inhibitory FcγR to AMIS, C57BL/6 versus FcRγ-chain−/− or FcγRIIB−/− mice were used as recipients of HOD-RBC alone or together with anti-HEL Abs (i.e., AMIS) and the resulting immune response to HEL evaluated. We show that anti-HEL polyclonal Abs induce the same degree of AMIS effect in mice lacking these IgG binding receptors as compared with wild-type mice. In agreement with this, F(ab′)2 fragments of the AMIS Ab also significantly reduced the Ab response to the HOD cells. In conclusion, successful inhibition of in vivo Ab responses to HOD-RBC by polyclonal IgG can occur independently of activating or inhibitory FcγR involvement. These results may have implications for the understanding of RhD prophylaxis.
Intermittent particle dynamics in marine coastal waters
Authors: Renosh P. R. , Schmitt F. G. , Loisel H.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Marine coastal processes are highly variable over different space and time scales. In this paper we analyse the intermittency properties of particle size distribution (PSD) recorded every second using a LISST instrument (Laser In-Situ Scattering and Transmissometry). The particle concentrations have been recorded over 32 size classes from 2.5 to 500 μm, at 1 Hz resolution. Such information is used to estimate at each time step the hyperbolic slope of the particle size distribution, and to consider its dynamics. Shannon entropy, as an indicator of the randomness, is estimated at each time step and its dynamics is analysed. Furthermore, particles are separated into four classes according to their size, and the intermittent properties of these classes are considered. The empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is used, associated with arbitrary order Hilbert spectral analysis (AHSA), in order to retrieve scaling multi-fractal moment functions, for scales from 10 s to 8 min. The intermittent properties of two other indicators of particle concentration are also considered on the same range of scales: the total volume concentration Cvol-total and the particulate beam attenuation coefficient cp(670). Both show quite similar intermittent dynamics and are characterized by the same exponents. Globally we find here negative Hurst exponents for each time series considered, and nonlinear moment functions.
Diagnosing non-Gaussianity of forecast and analysis errors in a convective scale model
Authors: Legrand R. , Michel Y. , Montmerle T.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. In numerical weather prediction, the problem of estimating initial conditions is usually based on a Bayesian framework. Two common derivations respectively lead to the Kalman filter and to variational approaches. They rely on either assumptions of linearity or assumptions of Gaussianity of the probability density functions of both observation and background errors. In practice, linearity and Gaussianity of errors are tied to one another, in the sense that a nonlinear model will yield non-Gaussian probability density functions, and that standard methods may perform poorly in the context of non-Gaussian probability density functions. This study aims to describe some aspects of non-Gaussianity of forecast and analysis errors in a convective scale model using a Monte-Carlo approach based on an ensemble of data assimilations. For this purpose, an ensemble of 90 members of cycled perturbed assimilations has been run over a highly precipitating case of interest. Non-Gaussianity is measured using the K2-statistics from the D'Agostino test, which is related to the sum of the squares of univariate skewness and kurtosis. Results confirm that specific humidity is the least Gaussian variable according to that measure, and also that non-Gaussianity is generally more pronounced in the boundary layer and in cloudy areas. The mass control variables used in our data assimilation, namely vorticity and divergence, also show distinct non-Gaussian behavior. It is shown that while non-Gaussianity increases with forecast lead time, it is efficiently reduced by the data assimilation step especially in areas well covered by observations. Our findings may have implication for the choice of the control variables.
Induced pluripotent stem cells in infections
Authors: Singh Anubha , Kumar Singh Deepak , Bhoria Usha
Published: July 2015

Regenerative medicine has an exciting role in the treatment of disorders and conditions where there is an irreversible damage to a tissue or an organ or in immunodeficient state. Stem cells which have the potential to differentiate into specific types of cells, offers a new concept of regenerative medicine to treat spectrum of diseases including infections. Infections are one of the cause of high morbidity during injuries and in immunodeficient states. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are generated by genetically reprogramming the adult cells to an embryonic stem cell (ESC)-like state by being forced to express genes and factors essential for maintaining the defining properties of ESC. In infections, eosinophils play an important role as they are potent source of cytotoxic mediators such as eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and major basic proteins (MBP). These substances play an important role in immune response to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites and in resistance to some forms of cancer. Strategies to enhance the intrinsic functional abilities of eosinophils by lineage specific differentiation of iPSC and enhanced expression of cytotoxic mediators by advanced genetic engineering approach provide important future application in such opportunistic infections.
Evaluation of nucleic acid testing for blood donors: One year study
Authors: Al-Turaifi Hussain
Published: July 2015

Aims: Blood transfusion is an essential management to save patients life in health care system. Blood is a potential source of transmitted diseases which make the safety of blood products important issue in laboratory medicine. Investigations of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTI), especially hepatitis viruses and acquired immunodeficiency virus, are essential in all blood bank policies. Several methods were applied to screen blood products for hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses and acquired immunodeficiency virus.
Methods: Blood donor's samples for one year were collected and examined for hepatitis viruses and acquired immunodeficiency virus by using serological and nucleic acid testing (NAT).
Results: Comparative study showed that NAT is more specific than serologic screening testing for both hepatitis C virus and acquired immunodeficiency virus. However, NAT and serological tests are required to increase the safety of blood components from hepatitis B virus transmission.
Conclusion: This study is an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of introducing NAT for examination of blood components. National-wide study is required to evaluate the policy of blood screening program.
Coincident detection of lung metastasis of prostate cancer and primary lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Muro Yusuke , Kosaka Takeo , Hato Tai , Mikami Shuji , Oya Mototsugu
Published: July 2015

We report an extremely rare case of 79-year-old man, who was discovered with coincidental lung metastasis of prostate cancer and primary lung cancer. The patient presented with low prostatespecific antigen and two lung lesions: one in the right lower lobe, and one in the right upper lobe, 3 years after, he was treated with external beam radiotherapy for Gleason score 4+3=7, cT3aN0M0 prostate cancer. A computed tomography-guided needle biopsy of a nodule in the right lower lobe revealed suspicious metastasis of prostate cancer. Thoracoscopic excisions of both lesions were performed, and each lung lesion was diagnosed as being metastatic prostate cancer and primary lung cancer.
It’s not always varicocele: A strange case of Zinner syndrome
Authors: Pavan Nicola , Bucci Stefano , Mazzon Giorgio , Bertolotto Michele , Trombetta Carlo , Liguori Giovanni
Published: July 2015

A 42-year-old man presented with a huge varicocele. The patient was completely asymptomatic and he did not complain of dysuria, perineal discomfort, or ejaculatory pain. During the visit, the mass mimicked a varicocele and during the Valsalva maneuver a reflux was documented by colour Doppler ultrasound and an abdominal ultrasound revealed an agenesis of the right kidney and a 4.5-cm diameter intra-prostatic cyst. An abdominal and pelvis magnetic resonance imaging was then performed, which confirmed the right renal agenesis, with an epididymal enlargement in the body and tail. This is a unique case of Zinner syndrome in which the patient presented with a paratesticular mass mimicking a varicocele.
Composite renal cell carcinoma and angiomyolipoma in a patient with Tuberous sclerosis: A diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Kakkar Aanchal , Vallonthaiel Archana George , Sharma Mehar C. , Bora Girdhar , Panda Ananya , Seth Amlesh
Published: July 2015

Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with various renal pathologies, including angiomyolipoma (AML). Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with concomitant AML is rare. We report a case of composite RCC and AML in a young male with TS. This 25-year-old male presented with an abdominal mass. The abdominal computed tomography scan revealed RCC in the left kidney and AML in right kidney. A left radical nephrectomy was performed. Microscopy showed a tumour composed of closely intermingled RCC and AML components. Immunohistochemistry was performed for confirmation. A diagnosis of composite tumour with clear cell RCC and AML was made. Though the coexistence of RCC with AML is rare, and the composite variant is even rarer, one must be aware of this entity to prevent misdiagnosis as well as upstaging of RCC, and also to avoid missing areas of RCC within a large AML, especially in TS patients.
Spontaneous rupture of adult Wilms’ tumor: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Huang Jian-lin , Liao Yong , Qiu Ming-xing
Published: July 2015

Wilms’ tumour is rare in adults, and spontaneous rupture with retroperitoneal hemorrhage as the presenting sign of renal tumour is also uncommon. We present a case of a 20-year-old woman with spontaneous rupture of Wilms’ tumour by describing the course of diagnosis and treatment. The patient underwent an open left radical nephrectomy, and was treated with 18 weeks of adjuvant chemotherapy with vincristine and actinomycin D. The follow-up of 12 months demonstrated no recurrence. We also reviewed the limited number of related reports. These suggest that the preoperative diagnosis of adult Wilms’ tumour is very difficult, and radical nephrectomy and postoperative comprehensive therapy are equally important in the treatment of these patients. Factors of prognosis for adults with Wilms’ tumour include tumour stage, histopathology, and time and type of therapy.
Migration de prothèse herniaire en intravésical : mécanisme et enjeux
Authors: El anzaoui Jihad , Ghoundale Omar , Touiti Driss , Savoie Pierre Henri , Laroche Julien , Riviere Philipe , Lemesle Loic , Fournier Robert
Published: July 2015

La migration d’une prothèse synthétique pour hernie abdominale ou inguinale est un incident rare. Elle peut survenir aussi bien en intrapéritonéal qu’en sous-péritonéal. La migration intrapéritonéale entraîne un risque d’obstruction intestinale et d’infection pouvant menacer le pronostic vital. La migration endovésicale est beaucoup plus rare. La plaque en endovésical se comporte comme un corps étranger avec risque de calcification et de cystite. Le diagnostic différentiel se pose surtout avec un calcul vésical ou une tumeur de la vessie. Devant la prédominance de signes irritatifs non spécifiques, le diagnostic repose sur les observations radiologiques mais surtout cystoscopiques. Le traitement est essentiellement endoscopique, par la résection de l’extrémité prolabée en endovésical.
Bladder leiomyosarcoma in a patient with chronic ketamine abuse: A case report
Authors: Zhong Dewen , Yu Feng , Chen Jiande , Lin Chaolu , Luo Huaijing
Published: July 2015

Bladder leiomyosarcoma is a rare mesenchymal tumour, accounting for less than 0.5% of all primary bladder malignancies. Adult women of reproductive age have the higher incidence of bladder leiomyosarcoma. Exposure to local pelvic radiotherapy or systemic chemotherapy, especially cyclophosphamide therapy, is also a significant risk factor. We describe a case of a 31-year-old male who developed urinary bladder leiomyosarcoma. The patient had no history of radiotherapy, systemic chemotherapy, or other significant event, except a 5-year history of ketamine abuse. The tumour was found on the left bladder wall and was definitively diagnosed by transurethral resection of the bladder tumour. A partial cystectomy was performed. There are no known reports of urinary bladder leiomyosarcoma associated with chronic ketamine abuse; therefore, we speculate that chronic ketamine abuse may be a factor in the development of this infrequent bladder malignancy.
Experience with sliding-clip splenorrhaphy for splenic injury during radical nephrectomy
Authors: Giri Subhasis K. , Abdelrahman Mamoun , Flood Hugh D.
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We report our experience with sliding-clip splenorrhaphy (SCS), a novel splenic conservation technique, for iatrogenic splenic injury (ISI) during a left radical nephrectomy (RN). We also reviewed the literature on ISI.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients who had RN between January 2005 and December 2013 at our institution. The technique used was similar to sliding-clip renorrhaphy. Our Medline literature identified articles containing “splenic injury during nephrectomy,” “iatrogenic splenic injury.” “iatrogenic splenectomy,” and “splenorrhaphy.” Our primary outcome measures included incidence of splenic injury and splenic conservation rate and splenectomy.Results: Among the 370 RN, 140 were left sided. ISI injury occurred in 6 left RN (incidence 1.6% for all nephrectomies, 4.2% for leftsided nephrectomies). All 6 cases had open procedure and for the left-sided procedure. Splenic conservation was attempted in 4 patients using SCS and 3 out of 4 were successfully repaired. Altogether 3 patients had splenectomy (incidence 0.8% for all nephrectomies, 2.1% for left-sided nephrectomies). Our literature review revealed that the incidence of iatrogenic splenectomy during left nephrectomy varies from 1.3% to 13.2%.Conclusions: SCS is an acceptable novel splenic conservation technique due to its ease of use and success in selected patients with ISI. There is little evidence on the true incidence of ISI especially on splenic conservation during nephrectomy. Every attempt at splenic conservation is likely to improve immediate- and long-term patient outcomes.
A report on the clinical efficacy of a new Bougie-internal urethrectomy
Authors: Hyn Choe Sung , Jong Kim Han , Chol Choe Un
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We compare the clinical efficacy of the new bougieinternal urethrectomy (BIU) with internal urethrotomy and urethroplasty to treat urethral stricture disease. Methods: We prospectively studied 186 people with urethral stricture disease. Of these, 84 were identified for urethroplasty and 102 for internal urethrotomy (endoscopic urethrotomy). Among the 84 identified for urethroplasty, 52 received BIU (Group 1) and the remaining 32 received urethroplasty. Among the 102 identified for internal urethrotomy, 58 received BIU (Group 2) and the remaining 44 received the internal urethrotomy. After surgery, we evaluated the clinical efficacy of the BIU (operative invasions, voiding flow rates, complications, sequelae) compared with the endoscopic treatment and urethroplasty.Results: Patient age ranged from 20 to 70 years. The follow-up period was 2 years. In the BIU Group 1, the BIU Group 2, and the internal urethrotomy (endoscopic treatment), the length of strictures were 2.9 ± 1.5, 2.8 ± 1.3, 1.6 ± 0.7, and 1.5 ± 0.6, respectively. In the BIU Group 1, the urethroplasty, the BIU Group 2, and the internal urethrotomy (endoscopic treatment), the amount of bleeding was 34.1 ± 17.1, 172.2 ± 29.8, 28.5 ± 9.8, and 49.7 ± 13.6 mL, respectively. In the BIU Group 1, the urethroplasty, the BIU Group 2, and the internal urethrotomy, the recurrence rates were 5.8%, 86%, 6.8% and 25%, and the average flow rates were 18.1 ± 4.8, 13.1 ± 3.9, 18.2 ± 3.6, 10.1 ± 3.1 mL/s, respectively. There was no sequealae (sexual dysfunction, penile change) in both BIU groups.Conclusions: The new BIU could be considered first-line treatment in all patients with indications for visual internal urethrotomy and urethroplasty.
Prevalence and risk factors of contralateral extraprostatic extension in men undergoing radical prostatectomy for unilateral disease at biopsy: A global multi-institutional experience
Authors: Bienz Marc , Hueber Pierre-Alain , Trudeau Vincent , Alenizi Abdullah M. , Valdivieso Roger , Alom Modar , Balbay Mevlana Derya , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Mouraviev Vladimir , Albala David M. , El-Hakim Assaad , Trinh Quoc-Dien , Latour Mathieu , Saad Fred , Zorn Kevin C.
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We assessed the incidence of contralateral prostate cancer (cPCa), contralateral EPE (cEPE) and contralateral positive surgical margins (cPSM) in patients diagnosed preoperatively with unilateral prostate cancer and evaluated risk factors predictive of contralateral disease extension.Methods: The occurrence of cPCa, cEPE and cPSM and the sidespecific nerve-sparing technique performed were collected postoperatively from 327 men diagnosed with unilateral prostate cancer at biopsy. Parameters, such as the localization, proportion, and percentage of cancer in positive cores, were prospectively collected.Results: Overall, 50.5% of patients had bilateral disease, and were at higher risk when associated with a positive biopsy core at the apex (p = 0.016). The overall incidence of ipsilateral EPE and cEPE were 21.4% and 3.4%, respectively (p < 0.001). Compared to cPCa, ipsilateral disease was at an almost 4-fold higher risk of extending out of the prostate (p < 0.001). None of the criteria tested were identified as useful predictors for cEPE. The low incidence of cEPE in our cohort could limit our ability to detect significance. The overall incidence of ipsilateral PSM and cPSM were 15.3% and 5.8%, respectively (p < 0.001). More aggressive nerve-sparing was not associated with a higher incidence of PSM. Prostate sides selected for more aggressive nerve-sparing were associated with younger patients (p < 0.001), a smaller prostate (p = 0.006), and a lower percentage of cancer in biopsy material (p = 0.008).Conclusion: Although the risk of cPCa is high in patients diagnosed with unilateral prostate cancer at biopsy, the risk of cEPE and cPSM is low, yet not insignificant. Contralateral aggressive nervesparing should be used with caution and should not compromise oncological outcome.
Few modifiable factors predict readmission following radical cystectomy
Authors: Minnillo Brian J , Maurice Matthew J. , Schiltz Nicholas , Pillai Aiswarya C. , Koroukian Siran M. , Daneshgari Firouz , Kim Sim P. , Abouassaly Robert
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We sought to determine the patient and providerrelated factors associated with readmission after radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer. In this era of healthcare reform, hospital performance measures, such as readmission, are beginning to affect provider reimbursement. Given its high readmission rate, RC could be a target for quality improvement.Methods: We reviewed bladder cancer patients who underwent RC in California’s State Inpatient Database (2005–2009) of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. We examined patient- (e.g., race, discharge disposition) and provider-related factors (e.g., volume) and evaluated their association with 30-day readmission. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associations of interest.Results: Overall, 22.8% (n = 833) of the 3649 patients who underwent RC were readmitted within 30 days. Regarding disposition, 34.8%, 50.8%, and 12.2% were discharged home, home with home healthcare, and to a post-acute care facility (PACF), respectively. Within 30 days, 20.3%, 20.9%, and 42.3% discharged home, home with home healthcare, and to a PACF were readmitted, respectively. African Americans (odds ratio [OR] 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–2.50), having ≥2 comorbidities (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.06–1.91), receiving a neobladder (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.09–1.93), and discharge to a PACF (OR 3.79, 95% CI 2.88–4.98) were independent factors associated with readmission. Hospital stays ≥15 days were associated with less readmission (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.27–0.67, p = 0.0002). Procedure volume was not associated with complication, in-hospital mortality, or readmission.Conclusions: About one-fifth of patients undergoing RC are readmitted. Patients who are discharged to a PACF, African American, and who have more extensive comorbidities tend to experience more readmissions. Increased efforts with care coordination among these patients may help reduce readmissions.
The relative contribution of urine extravasation to elevation of plasma creatinine levels in acute unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Rosenzweig Barak , Pinthus Jehonathan H , Kleinmann Nir , Joffe Erel , Erlich Tomer , Fridman Eddie , Winkler Harry , Mor Yoram , Ramon Jacob , Dotan Zohar A
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Rising levels of plasma creatinine in the setting of acute unilateral ureteral obstruction (AUUO) often reflects acute renal failure, mandating kidney drainage. We hypothesize that reabsorption of peri-renal urine extravasation (PUE), a common result of UUO, contributes significantly to the elevation in plasma creatinine, rendering the latter an inaccurate benchmark for renal function. We explored this hypothesis in a rat model of AUUO and PUE.Methods: In total, 20 rats were equally divided into 4 groups. Groups 1 and 2 underwent unilateral ligation of the ureter with infiltration of rat’s urine (index group) or saline (control) into the peri-renal space. Two additional control groups underwent perirenal injection of either urine or saline without AUUO. Plasma creatinine levels were determined immediately prior to the procedure (T0), and hourly for 3 hours (T1, T2 and T3). Renal histology was investigated after 3 hours.Results: Rats in the index group had a significantly greater increase in plasma creatinine levels over 3 hours compared to all other groups (p < 0.05). At T3, average plasma creatinine levels for the index group increased by 96% (0.49 ± 0.18 mg/dL) compared to 46% (0.23 ± 0.06 mg/dL increase) in the AUUO and saline group, and less than 15% rise in both the non-obstructed control groups. Our study limitations includes lack of spontaneous PUE and intraperitoneal surgical approach.Conclusions: Absorption of peri-renal urine in the presence of AUUO is a significant contributor to rising plasma creatinine levels, beyond those attributable to the obstruction alone, and may overestimate the extent of the true renal functional impairment.
Factors predicting prolonged operative time for individual surgical steps of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP): A single surgeon’s experience
Authors: Alenizi Abdullah M , Valdivieso Roger , Rajih Emad , Meskawi Malek , Toarta Cristian , Bienz Marc , Azizi Mounsif , Hueber Pierre Alain , Lavigueur-Blouin Hugo , Trudeau Vincent , Trinh Quoc-Dien , El-Hakim Assaad , Zorn Kevin C
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We evaluated the average time required to complete individual steps of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) by an expert RARP surgeon. The intent is to help establish a timebased benchmark to aim for during apprenticeship. In addition, we aimed to evaluate preoperative patient factors, which could prolong the operative time of these individual steps.Methods: We retrospectively identified 247 patients who underwent RARP, performed by an experienced robotic surgeon at our institution. Baseline patient characteristics and the duration of each step were recorded. Multivariate analysis was performed to predict factors of prolonged individual steps.Results: In multivariable analysis, obesity was a significant predictor of prolonged operative time of: docking (odds ratio [OR] 1.96), urethral division (OR 3.13), and vesico-urethral anastomosis (VUA) (OR 2.63). Prostate volume was also a significant predictor of longer operative time in dorsal vein complex ligation (OR 1.02), bladder neck division (OR 1.03), pedicle control (OR 1.04), urethral division (OR 1.02), and VUA (OR 1.03). A prolonged bladder neck division was predicted by the presence of a median lobe (OR 5.03). Only obesity (OR 2.56) and prostate volume (OR 1.04) were predictors of a longer overall operative time.Conclusions: Obesity and prostate volume are powerful predictors of longer overall operative time. Furthermore, both can predict prolonged time of several individual RARP steps. The presence of a median lobe is a strong predictor of a longer bladder neck division. These factors should be taken into consideration during RARP training.
The role of single instillation chemotherapy in patients who receive subsequent bacillus Calmette-Guérin: A retrospective single centre study, and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Gondo Tatsuo , Hayakawa Nozomi , Maeda Takahiro , Ninomiya Akiharu , Nakamura So
Published: July 2015

Introduction: This retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate the combined effect of immediate intravesical chemotherapy and subsequent bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy.Methods: The study population consisted of 207 intermediate- or high-risk patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer who underwent an induction course of BCG between 1993 and 2007. We introduced single immediate instillation of 50 mg epirubicin for all cases in 2004, and thus earlier cases could be considered as historical controls. The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival (RFS). For cumulative analysis, we systematically reviewed studies indexed in databases. Including ours, the records of 856 patients from a total of 7 studies, including ours, were finally analyzed.Results: In our cohort, the 5-year RFS in patients who received the combination therapy was 66.2%, compared to 55.2% in the BCG alone group (p = 0.149). Multivariate analysis on tumour recurrence showed that patients with the combination therapy had a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.74 (p = 0.189). A subsequent literature review revealed that RFS rates in the combination groups were higher than those in the corresponding BCG alone groups in 4/7 studies (p = 0.02–0.15), and lower in 1 study (p = 0.51). We identified 5 studies which examined a HR for combination therapy, and performed a cumulative analysis. Adding a single chemo-instillation prior to BCG resulted in a significant reduction in tumour recurrence (summary HR 0.69, p = 0.010).Conclusions: Our analysis suggested that the combination of single chemo-instillation with subsequent BCG therapy exhibited an additive effect against potential tumour recurrence.
Malignant epitheloid angiomyolipoma of the kidney in a child treated with sunitinib, everolimus and axitinib
Authors: Citak Caglar , Yilmaz Eda Bengi , Yaman Emel , Kaya Simge , Tasinlar Hakan , Arpaci Rabia Bozdogan , Apaydin F. Demir
Published: July 2015

The malignant variant of epithelioid angiomyolipoma (EAML) of the kidney is uncommon, extremely aggressive and behaves like a renal cell carcinoma. We present a case of a 12-year-old male with malignant EAML who was treated according to adult treatment protocols. To our knowledge, axitinib has not been used before in children. We conclude that adult protocols, in this rare case, could be safely used in rare childhood malignancies.
Laparoscopic simple nephrectomy patient wıth situs inversus totalis and left renal hypoplasia: A case report
Authors: Cimen Haci Ibrahim , Atik Yavuz Tarik , Adsan Oztug
Published: July 2015

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a relatively rare anatomical condition characterized by the transposition of thoracic and abdominal organs from the normal side to the opposite position. Most reports of laparoscopic procedures in patients with SIT cite technical difficulties and longer operative times due to disorientation because of the reversed abdominal organs and necessary modification of the surgeon’s movements and techniques. We present a case of a patient with SIT in whom a transperitoneal laparoscopic simple nephrectomy was performed.
Le léiomyome vésical: À propos de 5 cas
Authors: Saadi Ahmed , Bouzouita Abderrazak , Cherif Mohamed , Ayed Haroun , Derouiche Amine , Ben Slama Riadh Mohamed , Chebil Mohamed
Published: July 2015

Introduction : Les léiomyomes sont des tumeurs mésenchymateuses bénignes. La localisation vésicale de ces tumeurs est rare et représente moins de 0,5 % de toutes les tumeurs vésicales. Le léiomyome vésical est la plus fréquente de ces tumeurs mésenchymateuses et il représente le tiers des lésions bénignes de la vessie. Notre but était d’étudier les particularités épidémiologiques, cliniques, radiologiques, thérapeutiques et évolutives de ce type de tumeur.Matériel et méthodes : Nous rapportons une série de cinq cas de léiomyome vésical, colligés entre 2001 et 2014. Il s’agit de trois femmes et de deux hommes. La symptomatologie clinique est non spécifique et dominée par la cystite. Trois patients ont eu une énucléation et deux ont eu une résection endoscopique de la tumeur.Résultats : Le suivi moyen est de six ans. Un seul patient a présenté une récidive expliquée par la persistance d’un nodule vésical lors de la première intervention, avec une bonne évolution après la deuxième cure chirurgicale.Conclusion : Le léiomyome vésical est une tumeur bénigne et rare. Sa symptomatologie est peu spécifique. Son diagnostic est histologique. Son traitement est toujours chirurgical, offrant un excellent pronostic, sous réserve d’une exérèse complète pour éviter les récidives.
STIL binding to Polo-box 3 of PLK4 regulates centriole duplication
Authors: Arquint Christian , Gabryjonczyk Anna-Maria , Imseng Stefan , Böhm Raphael , Sauer Evelyn , Hiller Sebastian , Nigg Erich A , Maier Timm
Published: July 2015

Polo-like kinases (PLK) are eukaryotic regulators of cell cycle progression, mitosis and cytokinesis; PLK4 is a master regulator of centriole duplication. Here, we demonstrate that the SCL/TAL1 interrupting locus (STIL) protein interacts via its coiled-coil region (STIL-CC) with PLK4 in vivo. STIL-CC is the first identified interaction partner of Polo-box 3 (PB3) of PLK4 and also uses a secondary interaction site in the PLK4 L1 region. Structure determination of free PLK4-PB3 and its STIL-CC complex via NMR and crystallography reveals a novel mode of Polo-box–peptide interaction mimicking coiled-coil formation. In vivo analysis of structure-guided STIL mutants reveals distinct binding modes to PLK4-PB3 and L1, as well as interplay of STIL oligomerization with PLK4 binding. We suggest that the STIL-CC/PLK4 interaction mediates PLK4 activation as well as stabilization of centriolar PLK4 and plays a key role in centriole duplication.
Application of headspace single-drop microextraction (HS-SDME) technique in geochemical exploration for petroleum
Authors: Jing Zhao , Qianyong Liang , Yongqiang Xiong , Yun Li , Chenchen Fang
Published: July 2015

All surface geochemical exploration methods for oil and gas are based on the theory that hydrocarbons generated and trapped at depth seep in varying but detectable quantities to the surface, and the main components detected are usually C1 -C5 hydrocarbons. The C1 -C4 hydrocarbons could come from degradation of organic matter by microbial organisms, while the gasoline range hydrocarbons are totally sourced from thermogenic processes. Therefore, the detection of gasoline range hydrocarbons in soils or sediments could be the most direct evidence for hydrocarbon seepage and the method used to detect the C6 -C12 range hydrocarbons could be a useful technique for surface geochemical exploration method for petroleum. However, because the concentration of gasoline range hydrocarbons in the soils or sediments are usually very low, and the present techniques for detecting those hydrocarbons are not adequate, the gasoline range hydrocarbons have seldom been used in surface geochemical exploration for oil and gas. In this study, the headspace single-drop microextraction (HS-SDME) technique coupled with gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) was employed to determine C6 -C12 gasoline range hydrocarbons in well drilling mud sample. The results show that the C6 -C12 hydrocarbons in the samples could be detected by HS-SDME, and the reservoir depth determined by the concentration of C6 -C12 hydrocarbons was the same with the actual petroleum reservoir depth, which indicated further that the HS-SDME method could be used in geochemical exploration for petroleum.
Characteristics of reservoirs related to salt structure and its experimental simulation in the southern margin of Precaspian Basin
Authors: Tai Yang , Liangjie Tang , Yixin Yu , Junzhang Zheng , Zhen Wang , Linghong Kong , Yankun Wang
Published: July 2015

Based on the interpretation of seismic profiles and hydrocarbon accumulation simulation, the characteristics of salt-related structures and reservoirs in the southern margin of Precaspian Basin are analyzed. Salt diapirs and salt walls are the main structure types in the study area, with welds, rolls or bedded layers of salt playing a connecting role between them. There are two hydrocarbon accumulation mode types, one associated with salt welds in the postsalt formations and the one with heterogeneous reservoirs in the presalt formations, divided by the salt layer. The 2D experimental modeling of oil migration and accumulation indicates that salt welding is the key of oil accumulation in the postsalt formations, while faults and interlayer heterogeneity control the distribution of oil in the presalt formations. The result is significant for understanding the oil migration and accumulation in salt-related structures and guiding oil exploration and development of salt-bearing basins.
Effective parameterizations of three nonwetting phase relative permeability models
Authors: Yang Zhenlei , Mohanty Binayak P.
Published: July 2015

Describing convective nonwetting phase flow in unsaturated porous media requires knowledge of the nonwetting phase relative permeability. This study was conducted to formulate and derive a generalized expression for the nonwetting phase relative permeability via combining with the Kosugi water retention function. This generalized formulation is then used to flexibly investigate the Burdine, Mualem, and Alexander and Skaggs models' prediction accuracy for relative nonwetting phase permeability. The model and data comparison results show that these three permeability models, if used in their original form, but applied to the nonwetting phase, could not predict the experimental data well. The optimum pore tortuosity and connectivity value is thus obtained for the improved prediction of relative nonwetting phase permeability. As a result, the effective parameterization of (
) parameters in the modified Burdine, modified Mualem, and modified Alexander and Skaggs permeability models were found to be (2.5, 2, 1), (2, 1, 2), and (2.5, 1, 1), respectively. These three suggested models display the highest accuracy among the nine relative permeability models investigated in this study. However, the corresponding discontinuous nonwetting phase and the liquid film flow should be accounted for in future for the improved prediction of nonwetting phase relative permeability at very high and very low water saturation range, respectively.
Diferrocenophosphaborin: A Planar‐Chiral, Redox‐Active and Anion‐Responsive Ambiphilic Ligand
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Murillo Parra Didier A. , Lalancette Roger A. , Jäkle Frieder
Published: July 2015

A new class of Janus‐like ambiphilic ligands is introduced. The rigid diferrocene backbone in heterocycles 4‐SnP and 4‐BP creates an unprecedented chiral environment as demonstrated by multinuclear NMR and single‐crystal X‐ray studies. In addition, the ligands are redox‐responsive and the Lewis acidic borane moiety in 4‐BP can be exploited to further tune the properties: a clear decrease in the CO stretching frequency of a Vaska‐type RhI complex 5‐BP is observed upon addition of fluoride ions. Thus, the Lewis acid and Lewis base sites influence each other and their strength can be modulated by redox chemistry and anion binding.
Synthesis of New 2,3‐Disubstituted 4‐Chloro‐1‐hydroxyindoles
Authors: Park Yeon Kyeong , Kim Hyejin , Kim Dong Sun , Cho Hyunsung , Moon Aree , Jeong Choonsik , Yoon Hye‐Ran , Lee Sang Hyup
Published: July 2015

The syntheses of new 2,3‐disubstituted 4‐chloro‐1‐hydroxyindoles were described. The conjugate nitro ketoester was reacted with various thiol and alcohol nucleophiles by the action of stannous chloride dihydrate through the unique processes of reduction of nitro group, intramolecular condensation, and addition of nucleophiles in one pot, to provide multisubstituted 1‐hydroxyindoles. The reactions with thiol nucleophiles provided better results than those with alcohols, and, in particular, secondary and tertiary thiols provided best yields.
Synergy between Palladium and Potassium Species for Efficient Activation of Carbon Monoxide in the Synthesis of Dimethyl Carbonate
Authors: Dong Yuanyuan , Shen Yongli , Zhao Yujun , Wang Shengping , Ma Xinbin
Published: July 2015

A potassium ion containing Pd/NaY catalyst is introduced that effectively activates the CO molecule for the carbonation of methyl nitrite to synthesize dimethyl carbonate. The potassium ions play a dual role during the activation of CO. Doping the catalyst with potassium enhances the electron density of Pd active species, which strengthens the PdC atoms interaction and thus more strongly activates the CO molecule. Further, the charge‐balancing potassium cations in the zeolite interact with the O atom of linear adsorbed carbonyls to form a PdCO⋅⋅⋅K+ structure, which further activates the CO bond. Both experimental analyses and density functional theory calculations indicated that the combination of potassium and Pd species facilitates the activation of CO in the carbonylation reaction.
Ynamide Carbopalladation: A Flexible Route to Mono‐, Bi‐ and Tricyclic Azacycles
Authors: Campbell Craig D. , Greenaway Rebecca L. , Holton Oliver T. , Walker P. Ross , Chapman Helen A. , Russell C. Adam , Carr Greg , Thomson Amber L. , Anderson Edward A.
Published: July 2015

Bromoenynamides represent precursors to a diversity of azacycles by a cascade sequence of carbopalladation followed by cross‐coupling/electrocyclization, or reduction processes. Full details of our investigations into intramolecular ynamide carbopalladation are disclosed, which include the first examples of carbopalladation/cross‐coupling reactions using potassium organotrifluoroborate salts; and an understanding of factors influencing the success of these processes, including ring size, and the nature of the coupling partner. Additional mechanistic observations are reported, such as the isolation of triene intermediates for electrocyclization. A variety of hetero‐Diels–Alder reactions using the product heterocycles are also described, which provide insight into Diels–Alder regioselectivity.
A variable step‐size diffusion affine projection algorithm
Authors: Yoo J. W. , Song I. S. , Shin J. W. , Park P. G.
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a new variable step‐size diffusion affine projection algorithm (VSS‐DAPA) to advance the filter performance of the diffusion affine projection algorithm (DAPA). The proposed VSS strategy is developed for the DAPA, which can solve the distributed estimation problem over diffusion networks well. To obtain the optimal step size reasonably, we seek the update recursion of mean‐square deviation (MSD) that is suitable for the DAPA. The step size is optimally given through the minimization for the MSD of the DAPA at each iteration. The derived step size through the MSD minimization improves the filter performance with respect to the convergence and the estimation error in steady state. The results based on simulations demonstrate that the proposed VSS‐DAPA performs better than the existing algorithms with a system‐identification scenario in diffusion network. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sialoblastoma. diagnosis by FNAC: A case report
Authors: Kataria Sant Prakash , Kumar Sanjay , Singh Gajender , Kalra Rajneesh , Sen Rajeev , Garg Nitin
Published: July 2015

Tumors of salivary gland are very uncommon in children and comprise of <5% of all salivary gland tumors. Most of these neoplasms originate in the parotid gland with 10–15% arising from the submandibular, sublingual, and minor salivary glands. We report a case of sialoblastoma in an 8‐year‐old male child who presented with a history of slowly progressive swelling of the parotid gland since birth, which was soft to firm in consistency and mobile in all directions. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a well encapsulated tumor located in the superficial lobe of the left parotid gland. Fine needle aspiration was performed, which revealed a parotid tumor with closest resemblance to sialoblastoma. Superficial parotidectomy was performed. The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of sialoblastoma. Sialoblastoma should always be considered when the lesion is known or suspected to be congenital. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:924–927. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhancement of Antihyperalgesia by the Coadministration of N‐palmitoylethanolamide and Acetaminophen in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Déciga‐Campos Myrna , Ortíz‐Andrade Rolffy
Published: July 2015

Preclinical Research

The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacological antihyperalgesic interaction between N‐palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and acetaminophen in diabetic rats using the formalin paw test. Streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats received subcutaneous injections in the paw of PEA alone (1–100 μg/paw) or acetaminophen alone (3–300 μg/paw) 15 min before formalin (0.5%) injection. The results revealed concentration‐dependent responses produced by PEA (EC50 = 7.19 ± 0.7 μg/paw) and acetaminophen (EC50 = 57.9 ± 1.9 μg/paw). Isobolographic analysis was used to evaluate the pharmacological interaction between the PEA + acetaminophen using the EC50 value and a fixed 1:1 ratio combination. The isobologram demonstrated that the combination investigated in this study produced a synergistic interaction; the experimental value (EC50= 23.64 ± 1.9 μg/paw) was significantly smaller than those that resulted from theoretical calculations (EC50 = 32.56 μg/paw). These results provide evidence that PEA in combination with acetaminophen could be useful for pain therapy in neuropathic diabetic patients. Drug Dev Res 76 : 228–234, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuropsychological and Behavioural Short‐Term Effects of Cognitive Remediation Therapy in Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa: A Pilot Study
Authors: van Noort Betteke Maria , Kraus Manuela Klara Aurelia , Pfeiffer Ernst , Lehmkuhl Ulrike , Kappel Viola
Published: July 2015

Objective

Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) aims to strengthen weak cognitive flexibility and central coherence in adult and adolescent anorexia nervosa (AN). Currently, there are no studies in adolescents with AN that control for learning effects because of re‐testing while evaluating CRT.

Method

Twenty in‐ and outpatients with AN aged 12 to 18 years received CRT. Assessment took place directly before and after the intervention. Performance was compared to 20 age‐, gender‐, IQ‐, and test–retest interval matched healthy controls, which did not receive CRT.

Results

AN patients showed an improvement in flexibility on neuropsychological assessment directly after CRT, whereas HC did not improve over time. Self‐report assessment of flexibility, as well as central coherence, did not show significant improvement after CRT.

Discussion

Results suggest that CRT may be beneficial for enhancing flexibility in adolescents with AN. However, randomized controlled studies are essential to determine the actual efficacy of this intervention. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Fibrillin-1 Regulates Skeletal Stem Cell Differentiation by Modulating TGFβ Activity Within the Marrow Niche
Authors: Smaldone Silvia , Clayton Nicholas P , del Solar Maria , Pascual Gemma , Cheng Seng H , Wentworth Bruce M , Schaffler Mitchell B , Ramirez Francesco
Published: July 2015

A full understanding of the microenvironmental factors that control the activities of skeletal stem cells (also known as mesenchymal stem cells [MSCs]) in the adult bone marrow holds great promise for developing new therapeutic strategies to mitigate age-related diseases of bone and cartilage degeneration. Bone loss is an understudied manifestation of Marfan syndrome, a multisystem disease associated with mutations in the extracellular matrix protein and TGFβ modulator fibrillin-1. Here we demonstrate that progressive loss of cancellous bone in mice with limbs deficient for fibrillin-1 (Fbn1Prx1–/– mice) is accounted for by premature depletion of MSCs and osteoprogenitor cells combined with constitutively enhanced bone resorption. Longitudinal analyses of Fbn1Prx1–/– mice showed incremental bone loss and trabecular microarchitecture degeneration accompanied by a progressive decrease in the number and clonogenic potential of MSCs. Significant paucity of marrow fat cells in the long bones of Fbn1Prx1–/– mice, together with reduced adipogenic potential of marrow stromal cell cultures, indicated an additional defect in MSC differentiation. This postulate was corroborated by showing that an Fbn1-silenced osteoprogenitor cell line cultured in the presence of insulin yielded fewer than normal adipocytes and exhibited relatively lower PPARγ levels. Consonant with fibrillin-1 modulation of TGFβ bioavailability, cultures of marrow stromal cells from Fbn1Prx1–/– limb bones showed improper overactivation of latent TGFβ. In line with this finding, systemic TGFβ neutralization improved bone mass and trabecular microarchitecture along with normalizing the number of MSCs, osteoprogenitor cells, and marrow adipocytes. Collectively, our findings show that fibrillin-1 regulates MSC activity by modulating TGFβ bioavailability within the microenvironment of marrow niches. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.