bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant for Acute Exudative Polymorphous Vitelliform Maculopathy
Authors: Scupola Andrea , Abed Edoardo , Sammarco Maria Grazia , Traina Salvatore , Villano Antonio , Grimaldi Gabriela , Blasi Maria Antonietta
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Acute exudative polymorphous vitelliform maculopathy is a rare retinal disease characterized by bilateral serous macular detachment and subretinal accumulation of yellowish deposits resembling Best dystrophy lesions. Corticosteroid systemic therapy has been used empirically in the attempt to treat this retinal disorder with mixed results. Thus, the benefit of corticosteroid remains undetermined. To our knowledge, we report the first case of acute exudative polymorphous vitelliform maculopathy (AEPVM) treated in one eye with intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex; Allergan, Inc., Irvine, California, USA).

Methods

A 28-year-old man with AEPVM underwent intravitreal dexamethasone implantation in the left eye.

Results

Compared with the fellow eye, intravitreal dexamethasone implant did not significantly modify the clinical course of the disease. No implant-related complication was experienced during follow-up.

Conclusions

The lack of response to intravitreal dexamethasone seems to suggest that corticosteroids may be ineffective for the treatment of AEPVM.
Retinal and Choroidal Thickness Changes after Single Anti-VEGF Injection in Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration: Ranibizumab vs Bevacizumab
Authors: Sizmaz Selcuk , Kucukerdonmez Cem , Kal Ali , Pinarci Eylem Yaman , Canan Handan , Yilmaz Gürsel
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the effects of single intravitreal injection of ranibizumab and bevacizumab on central retinal and choroidal thickness in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods

Forty eyes of 40 patients with neovascular AMD that underwent intravitreal injection of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (anti-VEGFs) were included. Patients were randomized into 2 groups: 20 eyes received ranibizumab and 20 eyes received bevacizumab injection. Central retinal and choroidal thicknesses of all eyes at baseline and 1 month postinjection scans were measured with Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). Student t test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare the data.

Results

The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) showed significant decrease after single injection of ranibizumab (from 345.0 μm to 253.5 μm, p<0.01) and bevacizumab (from 329.5 μm to 251.0 μm, p<0.01) at the first month, respectively. There was no significant difference regarding the CRT change between groups (p = 0.39). The mean choroidal thickness decreased from 158.6 μm (115-317) to 155.5 μm (111-322) in the ranibizumab group and from 211.5 μm (143-284) to 201.5 μm (93-338) in bevacizumab group. The decrease was not significant between groups (p = 0.35).

Conclusions

Intravitreal injection of both ranibizumab and bevacizumab provided a significant decrease in CRT; however, the agents caused no significant change in choroidal thickness. Additionally, no difference between ranibizumab versus bevacizumab was observed related to macular edema inhibition.
Epiphora as the Presenting Sign of Relapsed Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in a Child with Bruton Agammaglobulinemia
Authors: Gokce Gokcen , Ceylan Osman Melih , Uysal Yusuf , Yildizoglu Uzeyir , Atas Erman , Kurt Bulent
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Primary or secondary infiltration of the lacrimal drainage system by a lymphoid neoplasm is rare in children. Primary immunodeficiencies are characterized by occurrence of unusual malignancies at unexpected locations in the pediatric age group.

Methods

Case report.

Results

A 12-year-old boy with a history of Bruton agammaglobulinemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that primarily originated in the perianal region was referred to our oculoplastics department for persistent epiphora. Computed tomography scan and nasal endoscopy revealed relapse of NHL in the inferior portion of the nasolacrimal duct. Complete remission was achieved with chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Epiphora could be the initial manifestation of a relapse or a recurrence of an underlying malignancy in the pediatric population with predisposing immunodeficiency.
Assessment and in vitro Experiment of Artificial Anal Sphincter System based on Rebuilding the Rectal Sensation Function
Authors: Zan Peng , Liu Jinding , Jiang Enyu , Wang Hua
Published: May 2014

In this paper, a novel artificial anal sphincter (AAS) system based on rebuilding the rectal sensation function is proposed to treat human fecal incontinence. The executive mechanism of the traditional AAS system was redesigned and integrated for a simpler structure and better durability. The novel executive mechanism uses a sandwich structure to simulate the basic function of the natural human anal sphincter. To rebuild the lost rectal sensation function caused by fecal incontinence, we propose a novel method for rebuilding the rectal sensation function based on an Optimal Wavelet Packet Basis (OWPB) using the Davies-Bouldin (DB) index and a support vector machine (SVM). OWPB using a DB index is used for feature vector extraction, while a SVM is adopted for pattern recognition.

Furthermore, an in vitro experiment with the AAS system based on rectal sensation function rebuilding was carried out. Experimental results indicate that the novel executive mechanism can simulate the basic function of the natural human anal sphincter, and the proposed method is quite effective for rebuilding rectal sensation in patients.
Elevated Resistin Levels are Associated with Inflammation in Hemodialysis Patients with Failed Renal Allografts
Authors: Akagun Tulin , Caliskan Yasar , Yazici Halil , Ozkok Abdullah , Telci Aysegul , Turkmen Aydin , Yildiz Alaattin , Sever Mehmet Sukru
Published: May 2014

Background

Resistin is an adipocytokine, associated with insulin resistance and inflammation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the levels of serum resistin levels and other markers of inflammation in hemodialysis (HD) patients with failed renal allografts.

Methods

Sixty-nine HD patients with failed renal allografts and 98 never transplanted (naive) HD patients and also 21 healthy controls were included in the study. Serum levels of various biochemical parameters as well as resistin, IL-6, TNF-α and hs-CRP as biochemical markers of inflammation, were measured.

Results

Serum resistin levels in patients with failed renal allografts (4.80 ± 2.06 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those of the naive HD patients (3.44 ± 1.48 ng/mL) and healthy controls (0.95 ± 0.38 ng/mL; p<0.001). Patients with failed transplants were also characterized by higher TNF-alpha levels (96.8 ± 131.3 pg/mL vs. 40.9 ± 25.4 pg/mL; p<0.001) and IL-6 levels (83.9 ± 150.9 pg/mL vs. 14.6 ± 14.4 pg/mL; p<0.001) as compared to naive HD patients. Serum hs-CRP levels in patients with failed renal allografts (9.33 ± 11.86 mg/L) were significantly higher than those of the naive HD patients (1.26 ± 1.71 mg/L) and healthy controls (2.12 ± 1.82 mg/L; p<0.001). Serum albumin levels in patients with failed transplants (3.84 ± 0.47 g/dL) were lower as compared to never transplanted HD patients (4.13 ± 0.33 g/dL) and healthy controls (4.53 ± 0.40 g/dL; p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between serum resistin and TNF-alpha levels (r = 0.486, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Serum resistin levels are increased in HD patients with failed renal allografts very probably reflecting an allograft-induced chronic inflammatory state.
A Continuous Veno-Venous Hemofiltration Protocol with Anticoagulant Citrate Dextrose Formula a and a Calcium-Containing Replacement Fluid
Authors: Ong Song C. , Wille Keith M. , Speer Rajesh , Tolwani Ashita J.
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) is used as an anticoagulant for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). A systemic calcium (Ca2+) infusion is required to replace Ca2+ lost in the effluent. The shortage of intravenous Ca2+ in the United States has limited RCA use. We describe a continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) protocol with RCA using 2.2% anticoagulant citrate dextrose formula-A (ACD-A) and a commercial dialysate containing Ca2+ 1.5 mmol/l (N × Stage) as post-filter replacement fluid (RF), without need for Ca2+ infusion.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated five patients on CRRT who had at least three episodes of filter clotting within 24 h. Patients were switched to CVVH using ACD-A infused pre-blood pump and titrated to achieve a post-filter ionized calcium (iCa2+) level <0.5 mmol/l. The Ca2+ -containing dialysate was delivered post-filter as RF.

Results

Steady state mean serum chemistries were: Na+: 140.8 ± 2.3 meq/l, K+: 4.2 ± 0.4 meq/l, HCO3–: 30.9 ± 3.7 meq/l, pH: 7.42 ± 0.07, CO2: 47.9 ± 8.3 mmHg, total Ca2+: 8.08 ± 1.09 mg/dL. Post-filter iCa2+ ranged 0.27-0.36 mmol/l, and patient iCa2+ ranged 0.81-1.24 mmol/l. Mean post-filter RF rate: 3086 ± 164 ml/h, mean ACD-A rate: 298 ± 21 ml/h. Mean blood flow rate: 200 ± 17 ml/min, mean filtration fraction: 39.6 ± 7.2%. Mean effluent flow rate: 38.6 ± 6.7 ml/kg/h (range 28.7-55.8). Mean filter survival was 7 h without anticoagulation, compared to 42.6 h in the ACD-A group (p<0.0001).

Conclusions

In this pilot study, CVVH using ACD-A for RCA and a Ca2+ -containing RF was safely and effectively used without a continuous Ca2+ infusion. This protocol is a promising solution for maintaining effective CRRT when intravenous calcium is in short supply.
Evolution of Renal Function after Partial and Full Mechanical Support for Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Jacobs Steven , Droogne Walter , Waelbers Valerie , Van den Bossche Klaartje , Bollen Hilde , Geens Jef , Rega Filip , Burkhoff Daniel , Meyns Bart
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Recently a minimal invasive, partial support continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) became available for treatment of chronic heart failure. The aim of this study was to analyze whether partial support is capable of improving kidney function in end-stage heart failure.

Methods

We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of patients how received a full (n = 43) or partial support LVAD (n = 18) between 2007 and 2013. Patients on dialysis or in INTERMACS class I were excluded. Renal function was assessed until 3 months after the implantation. A calculated GFR less than 60 m/min was considered to be renal failure.

Results

Creatinine level after LVAD implant decreased 23% in patients on full support (1.3 ± 0.4 mg/dl vs. 1.0 ± 0.3 mg/dl; p<0.001) and 24% in patients on partial support (1.6 ± 0.6 mg/dl vs. 1.2 ± 0.4 mg/dl; p = 0.17) within 3 months. In each group patients with a pre-operative GFR less than 60 ml/min were selected. In this subgroup there was a 35% decrease in creatinine levels for patients on full support (1.7 ± 0.4 mg/dl vs. 1.1 ± 0.5 mg/dl; p<0.01) and a 32% decrease in patients on partial support (2 ± 0.4 mg/dl vs. 1.4 ± 0.3 mg/dl; p<0.05) at 3 months.

Conclusions

We observed a significant improvement in renal function in patients supported by full or partial support devices, even if the pre-operative renal function was severly impaired. The use of diuretics decreased in both groups. In chronic heart failure patients with impaired renal function, partial support is sufficient to improve renal function significantly.
Intra-operative Graft Blood Flow Measurements for Composite and Sequential Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Forcillo Jessica , Noiseux Nicolas , Dubois Marc-Jacques , Mansour Samer , Prieto Ignacio , Basile Fadi , Stevens Louis-Mathieu
Published: May 2014

Objectives

Intraoperative assessment of coronary artery bypass grafts (CABG) anastomotic quality can be performed using transit-time flowmetry (TTF). The aim of this study was to compare on- versus off-pump coronary graft TTF and early postoperative outcomes.

Materials and methods

Between January 2009 and January 2010, 521 distal graft flows were assessed using TTF measurements in 253 consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated CABG surgery. Data were analyzed using multilevel models accounting for clustering among surgeons and grafts performed in the same patient.

Results

Mean age was 66 ± 10 years and 22% were female (n = 55) with 34% diabetics (n = 86) and 40% pre-operative myocardial infarction (MI) (n = 101). The surgeries were performed off-pump in 67% (n = 170) with sequential vein grafts in 57% (n = 144) of patients. Off-pump patients had higher pre-operative left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEF), fewer urgent surgeries, fewer distal anastomoses, and fewer sequential vein grafts (all p<0.001). Intra-operative coronary graft TTF measurements were lower in sequential vein grafts performed off-pump versus on-pump. More patients in the on-pump group needed milrinone or dobutamine 24-48 h postoperatively (p = 0.005). Independent predictors of lower TTF included female gender and off-pump surgery, whereas predictors of better TTF were pre-operative MI, larger coronary diameter at the site of the distal anastomosis, and sequential vein grafting.

Conclusions

Lower intra-operative TTF measurements were found in sequential vein grafts in offpump CABG. However, off-pump patients experienced similar short-term outcomes compared to on-pump patients.
Carcinoma Uroteliale in Cisti Pielogena
Authors: Abate Danilo , Vella Marco , Alonge Vincenza , Serretta Vincenzo
Published: May 2014

Renal complex cysts are lesions whose nature can be either benign or malignant. Depending on the presence of septa, solid components, enhancement or calcifications, they are distinguished according to the Bosniak classification based on CT findings, as well as MRI and ETG. We report a rare case of urothelial carcinoma, originating over a pyelocalyceal cyst in a 50-year-old man, and classified as Bosniak IIF by CT and MRI investigations.
Relationship between Sun Exposure and Kidney Cancer: Preliminary Experience with the Evaluation of Recreational UV Exposure
Authors: Chiara Grasso Angelica Anna , Blanco Salvatore , Fantini Gemma , Torelli Fabrizio , Grasso Marco
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Recent findings reported an inverse relationship between solar ultraviolet-B (UV-B) exposure and mortality from various types of cancers, including renal cancer.

Methods

We reviewed the literature concerning the relationship between sun exposure and incidence of kidney cancer. We performed a case-control study, evaluating recreational sun exposure in 50 kidney cancer patients and 50 controls. A questionnaire concerning sun exposure habits during childhood, adult life and in the previous 2 years was filled in by every patient. The questionnaire focused on: hours/day spent in the sun during summer; hours/day spent sunbathing (considering as well which kind of UV protection was used); sunburns; holidays in tropical countries.

Results

We found and analyzed few articles concerning the relationship between kidney cancer and sunlight exposure. The two cohorts of patients we evaluated were homogeneous for age, phototype, origin and living area. We found no statistically significant differences between sun exposure in patients affected by kidney cancer and controls, both during childhood and adult life; no differences were found in the use of sunscreens either.

Conclusions

Recreational sunlight exposure does not differ in our cohorts of patients and controls; studies on greater cohorts are needed to evaluate the effect of recreational sun exposure in the development of kidney cancer.
Short-Term Morbidity following No-Scalpel Vasectomy: An Assessment of Clients’ Perceptions by Novel Postcard System
Authors: Garg Manish , Dalela Deepansh , Dalela Divakar , Goel Apul , Kumar Manoj , Paul Sagarika , Patil Sachin , Sankhwar Satya Narayan
Published: May 2014

Objective

Data on short-term (within a week) morbidity of No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) is lacking. We studied clients’ perceptions of early post-vasectomy morbidity by self innovated postcard pictorial questionnaire.

Methods

Between March 2011 and April 2012, 821 men underwent NSV and provided pre-printed revalidated pictorial postcards depicting various grades of severity of local pain, swelling, and bleeding. Clients were asked to tick mark their problems and post them on the third day after NSV. Data were compiled and statistically analyzed.

Results

Completed postcards were returned by 702 clients (85.5%). 25 postcards were excluded due to illegitimate filling of card. About 80.8% of clients complained of pain and minimal, moderate and severe pain was experienced by 77.69%, 18.09% and 4.20%, respectively. 16.24% of clients observed local swelling, which was minimal in 90.9%, moderate and severe in 7.27% and 1.81% of cases. 2.95% of clients noted mild bloody discharge. Most of clients managed their problems by following the instructions given in postcards; level 1 and 2 morbidity did not affect their daily activity.

Conclusion

Early morbidity after NSV is usually mild in severity and easily manageable. The postcard system is a feasible, effective, and economical way of collecting data and managing short-term post NSV problems.
Current Clinical Management of Renal and Perinephric Abscesses: A Literature Review
Authors: Rubilotta Emanuele , Balzarro Matteo , Lacola Vincenzo , Sarti Alessandra , Porcaro Antonio Benito , Artibani Walter
Published: May 2014

Renal and perinephric abscesses are rare but very severe conditions resulting from infections in or surrounding the kidneys. Symptoms and imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and renal ultrasound (US) of higher quality have led to an early diagnosis that is very important for patients’ prognosis. The best clinical approach to manage this disease is still debated. Antibiotic therapy represents the usual treatment of small renal abscesses. This management can be insufficient in case of larger renal abscesses requiring percutaneous or surgical drainage. Perinephric abscesses most commonly need invasive maneuvers. We conducted a literature review to clearly define the most recommended clinical managements for all cases of renal and perinephric abscesses.
Bladder Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor (PEComa): A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sarti Alessandra , Rubilotta Emanuele , Balzarro Matteo , Cerruto Maria Angela , Brunelli Matteo , Artibani Walter
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComa) are a very uncommon mesenchymal cancer with uncertain malignant potential.

Materials and Methods

A computerized research on Pub Med was performed regarding bladder PEComa. We evaluated the literature cases and described a case of bladder PEComa.

Results

PEComa of the bladder is a very rare neoplasm and only 15 cases have been reported so far.

Conclusions

Bladder PEComa involves young subjects of both genders, mostly under 40 years of age. Surgical treatment (partial or radical cystectomy) is the most common management. A long-term follow-up and larger series are required to better understand the best clinical approach to bladder PEComa.
Rare cases of bladder stones
Authors: Sampalmieri Gregorio , Moretti Antonello , Sampalmieri Matteo
Published: May 2014

We present here two special cases of urolithiasis.

The first one shows a giant bladder lithiasis resulting in severe renal insufficiency in a 63-year-old patient, who had previously had nicturia (2-3 times), occasional episodes of urinary frequency and burning micturition, in the absence of renal colic, hematuria or interrupted urination.

The second case referes to an 85-year-old man suffering from prostatic enlargement and bladder stones, hospitalized to undergo intervention of trans-vesical prostatic adenomectomy, during which two star-shaped stones were found without obvious symptoms.
Age-related prevalence of dermatoscopic patterns of acral melanocytic nevi
Authors: Suzaki Reiko , Ishizaki Sumiko , Iyatomi Hitoshi , Tanaka Masaru
Published: May 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relation between age and dermatoscopic features of acral nevi. We evaluated 159 dermatoscopic images of melanocytic nevi from 146 individuals filed at the Dermatoscopy Outpatient Clinic of Tokyo Women’s Medical University Medical Center East between April 2006 and March 2009. All images of melanocytic lesions on acral volar skin that showed a clear-cut dermatoscopic pattern of an acral nevus at the time of initial observation were included. The dermatoscopic patterns of all images were retrospectively examined in a blinded fashion according to the standard dermatoscopic classification criteria for acral melanocytic nevi. Images were classified using 15 structural variants of the parallel furrow pattern. These variants were then re-classified into two groups; the “single” line group and “double” line group. Patients of the double line group (age, 25.5 years) were significantly younger than those of the single line group (32.4 years). There was no significant difference in the age-related predominance between the solid line patterns and dotted line patterns. There was a significant age difference between patients with nevi showing the crista dotted pattern (mean age 24.9 years) and patients with nevi without the crista dotted pattern (mean age 34.6 years). We conclude that the double line variant of the parallel furrow pattern and crista dotted pattern, which probably correspond to the congenital type acral nevus, tend to be more common in young patients.
Prediction without Pigment: a decision algorithm for non-pigmented skin malignancy
Authors: Rosendahl Cliff , Cameron Alan , Tschandl Philipp , Bulinska Agata , Kittler Harald , Zalaudek Iris
Published: May 2014

While there are several published comprehensive stepwise algorithmic methods for diagnosing pigmented skin malignancy, only limited material has been published for the stepwise assessment of non-pigmented lesions. We present a method based on pattern analysis, with a stepwise assessment, first, for ulceration, second, for white clues (defined as white lines, or in the case of a raised lesion any of the keratin clues: dermatoscopic white circles, dermatoscopic white structureless areas or surface keratin), and third, if no ulceration or white clues are present, proceed to vessel pattern analysis.

This is a novel method, and apart from the assessment of white clues in raised lesions, it has not been formally tested. The priority of keratin clues in raised lesions over vessel pattern analysis has, however, been verified.

It is conceded that this method is less specific than methods which have clues of pigmented structures, and accepting these limitations, Prediction without Pigment is a decision algorithm intended to guide the clinician in the decision as to whether to perform a biopsy rather than consistently leading to a specific diagnosis. Reaching a more specific diagnosis at the end of our flowchart can be achieved by weighing of clues both clinical and dermatoscopic, and that ability can be expected to improve with both knowledge and experience, but no diagnostic method, including this one, can be 100% sensitive in diagnosing malignancy, in particular, melanoma. Taking these limitations into account, any non-pigmented lesion, regardless of pattern analysis, which is raised and firm (nodular) and for which a confident, specific benign diagnosis cannot be made, should be excised to exclude the nodular variant of amelanotic melanoma.
Dermatoscopic features of cutaneous non-facial and non-acral lentiginous growth pattern melanomas
Authors: Keir Jeff
Published: May 2014

Background: The dermatoscopic features of facial lentigo maligna (LM), facial lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM) and acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) have been well described. This is the first description of the dermatoscopic appearance of a clinical series of cutaneous non-facial non-acral lentiginous growth pattern melanomas.

Objective: To describe the dermatoscopic features of a series of cutaneous non-facial non-acral lentiginous growth pattern melanomas in an Australian skin cancer practice.

Method: Single observer retrospective analysis of dermatoscopic images of a one-year series of cutaneous non-facial, non-acral melanomas reported as having a lentiginous growth pattern detected in an open access primary care skin cancer clinic in Australia. Lesions were scored for presence of classical criteria for facial LM; modified pattern analysis (“Chaos and Clues”) criteria; and the presence of two novel criteria: a lentigo-like pigment pattern lacking a lentigo-like border, and large polygons.

Results: 20 melanomas occurring in 14 female and 6 male patients were included. Average patient age was 64 years (range: 44-83). Lesion distribution was: trunk 35%; upper limb 40%; and lower limb 25%. The incidences of criteria identified were: asymmetry of color or pattern (100%); lentigo-like pigment pattern lacking a lentigo-like border  (90%); asymmetrically pigmented follicular openings (APFO’s) (70%); grey blue structures (70%);  large polygons (45%); eccentric structureless area (15%); bright white lines (5%). 20% of the lesions had only the novel criteria and/or APFO’s.

Limitations: Single observer, single center retrospective study.

Conclusions: Cutaneous non-facial non-acral melanomas with a lentiginous growth pattern may have none or very few traditional criteria for the diagnosis of melanoma. Criteria that are logically expected in lesions with a lentiginous growth pattern (lentigo-like pigment pattern lacking a lentigo-like border, APFO’s) and the novel criterion of large polygons may be useful in increasing sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis of these lesions. Further study is required to establish the significance of these observations.
Anticancer Activity of Five Traditionally Used Medicinal Plants' Extracts
Authors: Ghazala H. Rizwani  , De-Shen Wang  , Mansoor Ahmed  , Amir Hassan  , Zheng-Rong Lai  , Affnan Zahid  , Najia Mansoor  , Huma Sharif  , Zhe-Sheng Chen  , Zhi Shi
Published: May 2014

Natural products play a critical role in cancer prevention and therapy today. There are numbers of anticancer agents from natural products used in the clinic.Fighting cancers with novel natural products, especially those extracted from plants, is a potential strategy to develop new anticancer drugs..In the following study, various extracts of well known medicinal plants named Holoptelea integrifolia (F), Operculina turpethum (R), Cardiospermem halicacabum L (S), Dilonix regia (F), Sesbania grandifora seed have been studied for evaluating their anticancer activity. Our data showed that the cytotoxic activity of Operculina turpethum (R) ethanolic extractwas relative high for all 6 cancer cell lines as compared to other extracts. The active compound and anticancer mechanism of these extracts are worth investigating in the future.
Déclassement et transformation de la structure de classes au Japon de 1945 à 2013
Authors: Bernier Bernard
Published: May 2014

Le Japon avant la Seconde Guerre mondiale avait une distribution des revenus très inégalitaires, signe de différences de classes importantes. Après la défaite de 1945, l’écart dans les revenus s’est dissipé laissant la place à une pyramide des revenus relativement plate. Cette situation a donné lieu à une vision du Japon comme société sans classe, étant constitué d’une immense classe moyenne. Cependant, les inégalités ont considérablement augmenté après le début de la crise financière en 1990, quand les grandes entreprises ont effectué des mises à pied et ont limité de façon draconienne l’embauche de jeunes salariés à la sortie des écoles et de l’université. Le chômage et la pauvreté ont augmenté. Le Japon de 2013 se retrouve donc avec des inégalités de classes qui s’approchent de celles de l’avant-guerre.
L’action collective protestataire dans le Japon contemporain : analyse spatiale d’une tradition cachée
Authors: Malinas David-Antoine
Published: May 2014

Depuis la crise des années 1990, une des transformations les plus importantes du Japon concerne le rôle de la société civile. Si de nombreuses études ont été réalisées pour analyser et réfléchir à la montée du bénévolat, peu de recherches ont analysé la dimension proprement politique de ce renouveau. Plus exactement, les travaux qui traitent de la dynamique des mouvements sociaux au Japon insistent surtout sur son déclin continu. Comment rendre compte alors du mouvement des sans-abri des années 1990, du très médiatique « haken mura (village des intérimaires) » de 2008, ou plus récemment encore d’actions de protestations localisées, mais intégrées au mouvement international des « indignés » ?

Le recours à l’analyse spatiale permet de mettre en évidence que, même en période de faible activisme, certains sites peuvent être particulièrement politisés et assurer le maintien et le renouvellement de l’engagement. La mobilisation autour de la question de la pauvreté, si elle semble débuter au début des années 1990, possède ainsi toute une histoire, celle d’une fraction de la nouvelle gauche jusqu’alors oubliée.
Du genre à la diversité. Le contrôle du changement de la main-d’oeuvre dans les grandes entreprises japonaises
Authors: Dubuc Claude-Eve , Mirza Vincent
Published: May 2014

Cet article analyse les pratiques de gestion de la diversité mises en place dans les grandes entreprises japonaises. À partir du milieu des années 1990, plusieurs de ces entreprises ont progressivement fait face à la nécessité d’incorporer une plus grande diversité dans les rangs de leurs employés en raison des transformations majeures du contexte économique et social. Ce sont les moyens que les entreprises utilisent pour gérer cette diversité que nous examinerons dans cet article. Nous montrerons que cette gestion de la diversité a commencé par l’instauration de mesures visant à incorporer la main-d’oeuvre féminine dans les rangs de l’entreprise. Ces mêmes mesures seront ensuite réutilisées dans une même logique pour gérer les employés étrangers.
Occurrences of the Land Planarian Rhynchodemus sylvaticus in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Authors: Glasgow Benny , Pierce Paula
Published: May 2014

Six land planarians collected in Great Smoky Mountains National Park from 2006 to 2012 are identified as Rhynchodemus sylvaticus (Leidy, 1851). External and internal characteristics of reported specimens are described using photographs. A discussion of the species' taxonomy, distribution, conservation concerns, and possible means of introduction is given.
Comitant Esodeviations An Update
Authors: Srinivasan Geetha
Published: May 2014

Comitant esodeviations are commonly encountered in clinical practice. While anatomical or innervational factors may be responsible for their occurrence, they could also be an indication of serious neurological disorders in some. It is extremely important to find out the cause of the esodeviation to manage them appropriately. There has been a lot of research in recent times to analyze optimal timing of surgery, assess the role of newer therapeutic agents like bupivacaine and also whether vision therapy is helpful in patients with amblyopia. This review looks at some of the relevant literature that would probably have a bearing on our management strategies.
A New Anti-VEGF Inhibitor, Aflibercept: Treatment Outcomes Of Neovascular Macular Degeneration Refractory To Other Anti-VEGF Agents
Authors: Turaka Kiran
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

To evaluate the treatment outcomes of aflibercept in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) resistant to other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications (bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and combination with or without dexamethasone and laser photocoagulation).

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective chart review of 56 patients (112 eyes) of persistent and recurrent exudative AMD treated prior with bevacizumab, ranibizumab, bevacizumab+dexamethasone intravitreal injections with or without combination of laser treatment was performed. Data analysis included demographics and treatment modalities to evaluate the visual acuity (VA) outcome, stabilization of AMD (central foveal thickness, CFT) and drug side effects (elevated intraocular pressure, IOP).

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 77 (range: 55-89) years. The mean central foveal thickness on optical coherence tomography (OCT) was 294 µ (range: 80-585). Intravitreal aflibercept injections were given in both eyes in 10 patients and in 1 eye in 46 patients. The mean interval between aflibercept injections to the last follow-up (FU) visit was 1.7months (range: 0-7). F There was no statistically significant difference in visual acuity (p=0.6) after aflibercept injection, however VA was stable (median 20/60). The central foveal thickness had decreased significantly (p=0.005). Complete response to treatment was noted in 21 patients (41%). AMD was stable in 26 (50%) and persistent with no response in five patients (9%).

Conclusions:

Monthly intravitreal Aflibercept injections stabilized the exudative AMD in approximately half of the patients who had prior resistance to other anti-VEGF medications.
Sewing Machine Technique For Iridodialysis Repair
Authors: Kumar Karamsetty Venkata Ravi
Published: May 2014

Aim:

To report a novel, safe, effective, easy, economical technique of iridodialysis repair with very short learning curve.

Methods:

The technique is demonstrated in 3 patients of post traumatic iridodialysis and one patient of post surgical iridodialysis. All patients underwent iridodialysis repair based on sewing machine principle using 26 G one and half inch needle, 10/0 prolene suture in a closed chamber technique And additional procedures required.

Results:

All patients did well post operatively with good visual recovery along from good cosmoses and minimal morbidity

Conclusions:

This technique shows novel, easy, simple, economical way of minimally invasive iridodialysis repair which even an average cataract surgeon can perform safely when require and is also repeatable in needed.
Molecular Diagnosis In Infectious Keratitis
Authors: N Venkatesh Prajna , A Lokeshwari , Prajna Lalitha
Published: May 2014

Microbial keratitis is a very important public health problem in our country. The magnitude of the burden of this problem is not often fully understood and hence it is often termed as a “silent epidemic”. The affected population are often the vulnerable members of the society like people working in fields, warehouses and manual unskilled labour intensive activities. Very often, these affected individuals delay their presentation to an ophthalmologist and often indulge in self medications. Even though classic clinical features have been described for various aetiological organisms causing keratitis, it is extremely difficult to accurately predict the same by clinical examination alone. Microbiological support systems are extremely important and mandatory for diagnosing and ultimately treating this problem. While routine microbiological investigations like smears and cultures remain the backbone of the armamentarium, newer molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are useful in certain indications. These tests are useful to detect slow growing organisms, fastidious organisms and may offer a comparative quick diagnosis. This review offers the current applications of the use of these molecular tests with reference to suppurative microbial keratitis.
Axenfeld Rieger Syndrome: A Rare Developmental Disorder
Authors: Singh Shilpa , Narula Anurag , Chakarborty Sunil , Chanana Sapna
Published: May 2014

To report a case of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome which is a rare developmental disorder and to discuss the literature pertaining to it. Clinical data was recorded for a 22 year old male, case of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome. Patient was put on multiple topical anti-glaucoma medicines and was called for regular followup. Visual acuity of the patient improved from finger counting at 1.5mts both eyes to 3mt both eyes and intraocular pressure was reduced from 28 mm Hg in both eyes to 10 and 12 mmHg in right and left eye respectively. Thus multiple topical glaucoma medicines along with frequent follow-ups can help achieve useful vision in cases of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome.
The character of polar tidal signatures in the extended Canadian Middle Atmosphere Model
Authors: Du J. , Ward W. E. , Cooper F. C.
Published: May 2014

The characteristics of the diurnal, semidiurnal, and terdiurnal tides (zonal wave numbers −5 to +5 in temperature and zonal wind) in the polar mesosphere and lower thermosphere region as simulated by the extended Canadian Middle Atmosphere Model are examined. The most significant diurnal, semidiurnal, and terdiurnal tides in the polar regions are Ds0, Dw1, and De1; Sw3, Sw2, Sw1, Ss0, Se1, and Se2; and Tw3, Ts0, and Tw1, respectively, and their latitudinal structures, seasonal variations, and hemispheric asymmetries noted. Of these components, Ds0, Tw1, Ts0, and Tw3 exhibit a seasonally symmetric variation with both hemispheres strengthening simultaneously. On the other hand, Dw1 strengthens asymmetrically so that when one hemisphere is strong, the other is weak. The remainder show no seasonal tendency but vacillate on shorter than seasonal time scales in a symmetric or antisymmetric manner at different times of the year. Global‐scale correlations of the amplitudes of the migrating tides Dw1/Sw2 and the stationary planetary wave 1 and the assumed “child” nonmigrating tides are also examined. The results indicate that the correlations are highly time scale‐dependent and the significant correlations seen with the original time series are mainly due to longer‐term variations (>18 days). There are no consistent global correlations associated with the short‐term variations (<18 days) among these waves.
Congenital microcephaly
Authors: Alcantara Diana , O'Driscoll Mark
Published: May 2014

The underlying etiologies of genetic congenital microcephaly are complex and multifactorial. Recently, with the exponential growth in the identification and characterization of novel genetic causes of congenital microcephaly, there has been a consolidation and emergence of certain themes concerning underlying pathomechanisms. These include abnormal mitotic microtubule spindle structure, numerical and structural abnormalities of the centrosome, altered cilia function, impaired DNA repair, DNA Damage Response signaling and DNA replication, along with attenuated cell cycle checkpoint proficiency. Many of these processes are highly interconnected. Interestingly, a defect in a gene whose encoded protein has a canonical function in one of these processes can often have multiple impacts at the cellular level involving several of these pathways. Here, we overview the key pathomechanistic themes underlying profound congenital microcephaly, and emphasize their interconnected nature. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dietary variation and food hardness in sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys): Implications for fallback foods and dental adaptation
Authors: McGraw W. Scott , Vick Anna E. , Daegling David J.
Published: May 2014

We present information on food hardness and monthly dietary changes in female sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys) in Tai Forest, Ivory Coast to reassess the hypothesis that thick molar enamel is parsimoniously interpreted as a response to consumption of hard foods during fallback periods. We demonstrate that the diet of sooty mangabeys varies seasonally, but that one food—Sacoglottis gabonensis—is the most frequently consumed food every month and year round. This food is the hardest item in the sooty diet. Given that this species has among the thickest enamel within the primate order, a plausible conclusion is that thick enamel in this taxon evolved not in response to seasonally critical function or fallback foods, but rather to the habitual, year round processing of a mechanically protected foodstuff. These data serve as a caution against de rigueur interpretations that reliance on fallback foods during lean periods primarily explains the evolution of thick enamel in primates. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:413–423, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SpyTag/SpyCatcher Cyclization Confers Resilience to Boiling on a Mesophilic Enzyme
Authors: Schoene Christopher , Fierer Jacob O. , Bennett S. Paul , Howarth Mark
Published: May 2014

SpyTag is a peptide that spontaneously forms an amide bond with its protein partner SpyCatcher. SpyTag was fused at the N terminus of β‐lactamase and SpyCatcher at the C terminus so that the partners could react to lock together the termini of the enzyme. The wild‐type enzyme aggregates above 37 °C, with irreversible loss of activity. Cyclized β‐lactamase was soluble even after heating at 100 °C; after cooling, the catalytic activity was restored. SpyTag/SpyCatcher cyclization led to a much larger increase in stability than that achieved through point mutation or alternative approaches to cyclization. Cyclized dihydrofolate reductase was similarly resilient. Analyzing unfolding through calorimetry indicated that cyclization did not increase the unfolding temperature but rather facilitated refolding after thermal stress. SpyTag/SpyCatcher sandwiching represents a simple and efficient route to enzyme cyclization, with potential to greatly enhance the robustness of biocatalysts.
Spontaneous Biomimetic Formation of (±)‐Dictazole B under Irradiation with Artificial Sunlight
Authors: Skiredj Adam , Beniddir Mehdi A. , Joseph Delphine , Leblanc Karine , Bernadat Guillaume , Evanno Laurent , Poupon Erwan
Published: May 2014

Guided by biosynthetic considerations, the total synthesis of dictazole B is reported for the first time. Experimental evidence for an easy access to challenging cyclobutane alkaloids of marine origin, which are often postulated to be biosynthetic precursors of more complex structures, is provided.
Preparation and cell morphology of ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/wood‐flour foams with low density
Authors: Kim Ji‐Hoo , Kim Gue‐Hyun
Published: May 2014

The main objective of this study is to obtain ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/wood‐flour foams with low density (< 0.2 g/cm3) using chemical blowing agent. Stearic acid was used as a compatibilizer to improve not only the compatibility between wood‐flour and EVA but also the compatibility between moisture and EVA in this study. The effects of wood‐flour content on the density and mechanical properties of EVA/wood‐flour foams were studied. Also, the effects of content of stearic acid on the cell morphology of EVA/wood‐flour foams were investigated. The shape of EVA/wood‐flour foams with 20% wood‐flour content becomes more uniform with increasing content of stearic acid. The most stabilized shape of the foams is obtained with 5 wt % stearic acid content. The density of EVA/wood‐flour foams with 20% wood‐flour and 5 wt % stearic acid is 0.11 g/cm3. With increasing content of stearic acid, more gas remains in the EVA matrix and consequently, average cell size and density increase. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40894.
Less is more: Development and evaluation of an interactive e‐atlas to support anatomy learning
Authors: Guy Richard , Pisani Heather R. , Rich Peter , Leahy Cathy , Mandarano Giovanni , Molyneux Tom
Published: May 2014

An Interactive electronic Atlas (IeA) was developed to assist first‐year nursing students with interpretation of laboratory‐based prosected cadaveric material. It was designed, using pedagogically sound principles, as a student‐centered resource accessible to students from a wide range of learning backgrounds. It consisted of a highly simplified interactive interface limited to essential anatomical structures and was intended for use in a blended learning situation. The IeA's nine modules mirrored the body systems covered in a Nursing Biosciences course, with each module comprising a maximum of 10 pages using the same template: an image displaying a cadaveric specimen and, in most cases, a corresponding anatomical model with navigation panes (menus) on one side. Cursor movement over the image or clicking the menu highlighted the structure with a transparent overlay and revealed a succinct functional description. The atlas was complemented by a multiple‐choice database of nearly 1,000 questions using IeA images. Students' perceptions of usability and utility were measured by survey (n = 115; 57% of the class) revealing mean access of 2.3 times per week during the 12‐week semester and a median time of three hours of use. Ratings for usability and utility were high, with means ranging between 4.24 and 4.54 (five‐point Likert scale; 5 = strongly agree). Written responses told a similar story for both usability and utility. The role of providing basic computer‐assisted learning support for a large first‐year class is discussed in the context of current research into student‐centered resources and blended learning in human anatomy. Anat Sci Educ 8: 126–132. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
WL‐index: Leveraging citation mention number to quantify an individual's scientific impact
Authors: Wan Xiaojun , Liu Fang
Published: May 2014

A number of bibliometric indices have been developed to evaluate an individual's scientific impact, and the most popular are the h‐index and its variants. However, existing bibliometric indices are computed based on the number of citations received by each article, but they do not consider the frequency with which individual citations are mentioned in an article. We use “citation mention” to denote a unique occurrence of a cited reference mentioned in the citing article, and thus some citations may have more than one mention in an article. According to our analysis of the ACL Anthology Network corpus in the natural language processing field, more than 40% of cited references have been mentioned twice or in corresponding citing articles. We argue that citation mention is a preferable for representing the citation relationships between articles, that is, a reference article mentioned m times in the citing article will be considered to have received m citations, rather than one citation. Based on this assumption, we revise the h‐index and propose a new bibliometric index, the WL‐index, to evaluation an individual's scientific impact. According to our empirical analysis, the proposed WL‐index more accurately discriminates between program committee chairs of reputable conferences and ordinary authors.
Theorizing on the take‐up of social technologies, organizational policies and norms, and consultants' knowledge‐sharing practices
Authors: Jarrahi Mohammad Hossein , Sawyer Steve
Published: May 2014

We identify the effects of specific organizational norms, arrangements, and policies regarding uses of social technologies for informal knowledge sharing by consultants. For this study, the term social technologies refers to the fast‐evolving suite of tools such as traditional applications like e‐mail, phone, and instant messenger; emerging social networking platforms (often known as social media) such as blogs and wikis; public social networking sites (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn); and enterprise social networking technologies that are specifically hosted within one organization's computing environment (i.e., Socialtext). Building from structuration theory, the analysis presented focuses on the knowledge practices of consultants related to their uses of social technologies and the ways in which organizational norms and policies influence these practices. A primary contribution of this research is a detailed contextualization of social technology uses by knowledge workers. As many organizations are allowing social media‐enabled knowledge sharing to develop organically, most corporate policy toward these platforms remains defensive, not strategic, limiting opportunities. Implications for uses and expectations of social technologies arising from this research will help organizations craft relevant policies and rules to best support technology‐enabled informal knowledge practices.