bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Memory B Cells Producing Potent Cross-Neutralizing Antibodies against Human Parechovirus: Implications for Prevalence, Treatment, and Diagnosis
Authors: Westerhuis B. M. , Benschop K. S. M. , Koen G. , Claassen Y. B. , Wagner K. , Bakker A. Q. , Wolthers K. C. , Beaumont T.
Published: May 2015

The family
Picornaviridae
is a large and diverse group of positive-sense RNA viruses, including human enteroviruses (EVs) and human parechoviruses (HPeVs). The human immune response against EVs and HPeVs is thought to be mainly humoral, and an insufficient neutralizing antibody (Ab) response during infection is a risk factor and can ultimately be life threatening. The accessibility of different antigenic sites and observed cross-reactivity make HPeVs a good target for development of therapeutic human monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). In this study, we generated two different human MAbs specific for HPeV by screening culture supernatants of Ab-producing human B cell cultures for direct neutralization of HPeV1. Both MAbs showed HPeV1-specific neutralization as well as neutralization of HPeV2. One antibody, AM18, cross-neutralized HPeV4, -5, and -6 and coxsackievirus A9 (CV-A9). VP1 capsid protein-specific assays confirmed that AM18 bound VP1 of HPeV1, -2, and -4 with high affinity (11.5 pM). In contrast, the HPeV1-specific MAb AM28, which neutralized HPeV1 even more efficiently than did AM18, showed no cross-reactivity with HPeV3 to -6 or other EVs and did not bind any of the capsid proteins, suggesting that AM28 is specific for a conformation-dependent, nonlinear epitope on the virus. The discovery of MAbs that are cross-reactive between HPeVs may help development of HPeV treatment options with antibodies and vaccine design based on epitopes recognized by these antibodies.

IMPORTANCE
HPeV infections are widespread among young children and adults, causing a broad range of disease. Infections can be severe and life threatening, while no antiviral treatment is available. Given that the absence of neutralizing Abs is a risk factor for severe disease in infants, treatment of picornavirus infections with MAbs would be a therapeutic option. To study antibody neutralization of HPeV in more detail, we generated two different HPeV1-specific human MAbs. Both MAbs show HPeV1-specific neutralization and cross-neutralized HPeV2. One MAb also cross-neutralized other HPeVs. Surprisingly, this MAb also neutralized CV-A9. These MAbs provide a unique tool for further research and for the diagnosis (antigen detection) and possible treatment of HPeV infections.
Implant site Nexplanon reaction?
Authors: Pedroso Célia , Martins Isabel , Palma Fátima , Machado Ana Isabel
Published: May 2015

Nexplanon (Schering-Plough Limited/Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited (MSD)) is a long active reversible contraceptive method that provides effective contraception for 3 years. It consists of a single, flexible, rod-shaped implant, containing 68 mg etonogestrel. It is 4 cm long, consists of an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, a non-absorbable material, and also contains 15 mg of barium sulfate, which makes it visible by X-ray. We describe a case of a 39-year-old woman who experienced a local reaction to the barium sulfate in Nexplanon. She was given medical treatment, but only the removal of the implant resolved the symptoms. After removal there was gradual improvement and 72 h later the patient was asymptomatic. Allergic reaction to barium sulfate is extremely rare: until now, there have only been two cases associated with Nexplanon described in the literature.
Fluoroscopy-guided thrombolysis of mechanical mitral valve thrombosis in a young female with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome
Authors: Ikram Sohail , Pant Sadip , Hussain Zeeshan , Brown Lorrel
Published: May 2015

Prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of mechanical valve prosthesis. The differential diagnoses for prosthetic valve obstruction includes pannus formation, prosthetic valve dehiscence, prosthetic valve endocarditis, chordae entrapment, patient-prosthesis mismatch and primary device failure. Establishing a diagnosis requires an understanding of prosthetic valve haemodynamics and careful correlation of clinical and imaging findings. Definitive therapy must be individualised based on various patient-specific factors. We present a case of mechanical mitral PVT in a young woman with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and outline the diagnostic and therapeutic approach utilised for successful treatment. The success and complication rates of various therapeutic strategies are also discussed, and highlight the need for individualised decision-making rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to PVT.
Narrative review of primary care point-of-care testing (POCT) and antibacterial use in respiratory tract infection (RTI)
Authors: Cooke Jonathan , Butler Christopher , Hopstaken Rogier , Dryden Matthew Scott , McNulty Cliodna , Hurding Simon , Moore Michael , Livermore David Martin
Published: May 2015

Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem and is being addressed through national strategies to improve diagnostics, develop new antimicrobials and promote antimicrobial stewardship. A narrative review of the literature was undertaken to ascertain the value of C reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin, measurements to guide antibacterial prescribing in adult patients presenting to GP practices with symptoms of respiratory tract infection (RTI). Studies that were included were randomised controlled trials, controlled before and after studies, cohort studies and economic evaluations. Many studies demonstrated that the use of CRP tests in patients presenting with RTI symptoms reduces antibiotic prescribing by 23.3% to 36.16%. Procalcitonin is not currently available as a point-of-care testing (POCT), but has shown value for patients with RTI admitted to hospital. GPs and patients report a good acceptability for a CRP POCT and economic evaluations show cost-effectiveness of CRP POCT over existing RTI management in primary care. POCTs increase diagnostic precision for GPs in the better management of patients with RTI. CRP POCT can better target antibacterial prescribing by GPs and contribute to national antimicrobial resistance strategies. Health services need to develop ways to ensure funding is transferred in order for POCT to be implemented.
Creating a unified team‐training system: one practice's journey
Authors: Watkins Liz
Published: May 2015

It is important to have uniform customer service policies, but few training programmes are aimed at entire practice teams. Liz Watkins recounts how her practice, convinced of the need to present a unified front, developed its own.
Marketing essentials for veterinary practices
Authors: Puddle Tim
Published: May 2015

Clearly identifying a practice's niche and focusing on what it aims to offer pet owners is at the heart of good marketing in the veterinary sector. It may sound easy, but it's often overlooked. Tim Puddle discusses how to align marketing with a customer‐focused approach.
Current treatment strategies in the management of canine dysrhythmias
Authors: Willis Ruth , Oliveira Pedro
Published: May 2015

Abnormal heart rhythms, or dysrythmias, are a common finding in small animals. They can present a clinical challenge as some dysrhythmias may be benign and well tolerated, whereas others have the potential to be life‐threatening and require anti‐arrhythmic treatment and monitoring. This article reviews some common scenarios and discusses some possible strategies for dealing with these potentially challenging cases.
Antihypertensive and neuroprotective actions of pyridoxine and its derivatives
Authors: Dakshinamurti Shyamala , Dakshinamurti Krishnamurti
Published: May 2015

Vitamin B6plays a crucial role in the nervous system as the amino acid decarboxylases involved in the synthesis of all putative neurotransmitters requires the coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate. Vitamin B6in its various forms has antioxidant properties. Pyridoxal phosphate has a role in regulating cellular calcium transport through both the voltage-mediated and ATP-mediated purinergic mechanisms of cellular calcium influx and, hence, has a role in the control of hypertension. Pharmacological doses of vitamin B6appear to decrease the high blood pressure associated with both genetic and nongenetic models of hypertension. Vitamin B6has a crucial role in the normal function of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It also protects against ischemia and glutamate-induced neurotoxicity.
Lamb wave band structure in phononic crystal composed of multiple square stubs symmetric or anti-symmetric deposited on a homogeneous plate
Authors: Wang X. P. , Jiang P. , Chen T. N. , Bao K.
Published: May 2015

This paper theoretically investigates the propagation of Lamb waves in a two-dimensional (2D) phononic crystal (PC) structure composed of multiple square stubs symmetric or anti-symmetric deposited on a thin homogeneous plate. The dispersion relations, the power transmission spectra and the displacement fields of the eigenmodes are studied by using the finite-element method (FEM). We investigate the effect of the distance between adjacent square stubs on the band gaps (BGs). The results show that the distance between adjacent square stubs can remarkably change the location and the width of the BGs. Meanwhile, we conducted a numerically study on the different results between the anti-symmetric and symmetric distribution of the scatterers. The band structure of the anti-symmetric structure PC is significantly different from the symmetric structure. In general, the distribution of the square stubs has an influence on the band structures. We further identify the physical mechanism of the distinction in the formation of the BG between the anti-symmetric and the symmetric model through the displacement fields of the eigenmodes. In addition, we find that the variation of the PC BGs in anti-symmetric and symmetric structure are sensitive to the distance between adjacent square stubs, which could be indispensable to practical applications such as BG tuning.
CVA WITH WRONG WAY RISK: SENSITIVITIES, VOLATILITY AND HEDGING
Authors: EL HAJJAJI OMAR , SUBBOTIN ALEXANDER
Published: May 2015

We propose a Credit Value Adjustment (CVA) model capturing the Wrong Way Risk (WWR) that is not product-specific and is suitable for large-scale computations. The model is based on a doubly stochastic default process with the default intensities proxied by credit spreads. For different exposure structures, we show how credit–market correlation affects the CVA level, its sensitivities to credit and market factors, its volatility and the quality of hedging. The WWR is most significant for exposures highly sensitive to the market volatility in a situation when credit spreads are at moderate levels but both the market factors and credit spreads are volatile. In such conditions, ignoring credit–market correlations results in important CVA mispricing. While the benefits from hedging are always magnified in the situation of the WWR, the right way exposure case is more delicate: only a well-designed mix of credit and market hedges can bring volatility down. Our results raise doubts on the Basel III policy of recognizing credit but not market hedges for computing the CVA volatility capital charge.
NO-ARBITRAGE BOUNDS ON TWO ONE-TOUCH OPTIONS
Authors: TSUZUKI YUKIHIRO
Published: May 2015

This paper investigates no arbitrage relationships between the prices of two one-touch options with the same maturity but with different barrier levels. We find the no-arbitrage range of prices for a no-touch option, given the price of a second no-touch option and the prices of co-maturing vanilla call options. The upper and lower bounds are the cost of a super-replicating portfolio and a sub-replicating portfolio respectively. These consist of call options, put options, digital options and a one-touch option. We assume that the underlying process is a continuous martingale but do not postulate a model.
BendFields
Authors: Iarussi Emmanuel , Bommes David , Bousseau Adrien
Published: May 2015

Designers frequently draw curvature lines to convey bending of smooth surfaces in concept sketches. We present a method to extrapolate curvature lines in a rough concept sketch, recovering the intended 3D curvature field and surface normal at each pixel of the sketch. This 3D information allows to enrich the sketch with 3D-looking shading and texturing.

We first introduce the concept of
regularized curvature lines
that model the lines designers draw over curved surfaces, encompassing curvature lines and their extension as geodesics over flat or umbilical regions. We build on this concept to define the orthogonal cross field that assigns two regularized curvature lines to each point of a 3D surface. Our algorithm first estimates the projection of this cross field in the drawing, which is nonorthogonal due to foreshortening. We formulate this estimation as a scattered interpolation of the strokes drawn in the sketch, which makes our method robust to sketchy lines that are typical for design sketches. Our interpolation relies on a novel smoothness energy that we derive from our definition of regularized curvature lines. Optimizing this energy subject to the stroke constraints produces a dense nonorthogonal 2D cross field which we then lift to 3D by imposing orthogonality. Thus, one central concept of our approach is the generalization of existing cross field algorithms to the nonorthogonal case.

We demonstrate our algorithm on a variety of concept sketches with various levels of sketchiness. We also compare our approach with existing work that takes clean vector drawings as input.
Complex Luminaires
Authors: Velázquez-Armendáriz Edgar , Dong Zhao , Walter Bruce , Greenberg Donald P.
Published: May 2015

Simulating a complex luminaire such as a chandelier is expensive and slow, even using state-of-the-art algorithms. A more practical alternative is to use precomputation to accelerate rendering. Prior approaches cached information on an aperture surface that separates the luminaire from the scene, but many luminaires have large or ill-defined apertures leading to excessive data storage and inaccurate results.

In this article, we separate luminaire rendering into illumination and appearance components. A precomputation stage simulates the complex light flow inside the luminaire to generate two data structures: a set of
anisotropic point lights
(APLs) and a radiance volume. The APLs are located near apparent sources and represent the light leaving the luminaire, allowing its nearand far-field illumination to be accurately and efficiently computed at render time. The luminaire's appearance consists of high- and low-frequency components, which are both visually important. High-frequency components are computed dynamically at render time, while the more computationally expensive low-frequency components are approximated using the precomputed radiance volume.

Results are shown for several complex luminaires, demonstrating orders of magnitude faster rendering compared to the best global illumination algorithms and higher fidelity with greatly reduced storage requirements compared to previous precomputed approaches.
Exponential Lower Bounds for Polytopes in Combinatorial Optimization
Authors: Fiorini Samuel , Massar Serge , Pokutta Sebastian , Tiwary Hans Raj , de Wolf Ronald
Published: May 2015

We solve a 20-year old problem posed by Yannakakis and prove that no polynomial-size linear program (LP) exists whose associated polytope projects to the traveling salesman polytope, even if the LP is not required to be symmetric. Moreover, we prove that this holds also for the cut polytope and the stable set polytope. These results were discovered through a new connection that we make between one-way quantum communication protocols and semidefinite programming reformulations of LPs.
Hybrid Simulations of Heterogeneous Biochemical Models in SBML
Authors: Chiang Hui Ju K. , Fages François , Jiang Jie Hong R. , Soliman Sylvain
Published: May 2015

Models of biochemical systems presented as a set of formal reaction rules can be interpreted in different formalisms, most notably as either deterministic Ordinary Differential Equations, stochastic continuous-time Markov Chains, Petri nets, or Boolean transition systems. While the formal composition of reaction systems can be syntactically defined as the (multiset) union of the reactions, the composition and simulation of models in different formalisms remain a largely open issue. In this article, we show that the combination of reaction rules and events, as already present in SBML, can be used in a nonstandard way to define stochastic and Boolean simulators and give meaning to the hybrid composition and simulation of heterogeneous models of biochemical processes. In particular, we show how two SBML reaction models can be composed into one hybrid continuous--stochastic SBML model through a high-level interface for composing reaction models and specifying their interpretation. Furthermore, we describe dynamic strategies for automatically partitioning reactions with stochastic or continuous interpretations according to dynamic criteria. The performances are then compared to static partitioning. The proposed approach is illustrated and evaluated on several examples, including the reconstructions of the hybrid model of the mammalian cell cycle regulation of Singhania et al. as the composition of a Boolean model of cell cycle phase transitions with a continuous model of cyclin activation, the hybrid stochastic--continuous models of bacteriophage T7 infection of Alfonsi et al., and the bacteriophage λ model of Goutsias, showing the gain in both accuracy and simulation time of the dynamic partitioning strategy.
M
3
Authors: Terei David , Aiken Alex , Vitek Jan
Published: May 2015

Real-world garbage collectors in managed languages are complex. We investigate whether this complexity is really necessary and show that by having a different (but wider) interface between the collector and the developer, we can achieve high performance with off-the-shelf components for real applications. We propose to assemble a memory manager out of multiple, simple collection strategies and to expose the choice of where to use those strategies in the program to the developer. We describe and evaluate an instantiation of our design for C. Our prototype allows developers to choose on a per-type basis whether data should be reference counted or reclaimed by a tracing collector. While neither strategy is optimised, our empirical data shows that we can achieve performance that is competitive with hand-tuned C code for real-world applications.
Modeling heap data growth using average liveness
Authors: Li Pengcheng , Ding Chen , Luo Hao
Published: May 2015

Most of today's programs make use of a sizable heap to store dynamic data. To characterize the heap dynamics, this paper presents a set of metrics to measure the average amount of data live and dead in a period of execution. They are collectively called average liveness. The paper defines these metrics of average liveness, gives linear-time algorithms for measurement, and discusses their use in finding the best heap size. The algorithms are implemented in a Java tracing system called Elephant Tracks and evaluated using the Dacapo benchmarks running on the Oracle HotSpot and IBM J9 Java virtual machines.
Sticky tries
Authors: Joisha Pramod G.
Published: May 2015

We present the sticky trie, a new variant of the standard trie data structure that achieves high-performing atomic insertions and lookups for large key universes by precluding deletions. It has applications in several areas, including address tracking, logging, and garbage collection. By leveraging features of a modern operating system, we show how a runtime can exploit the absence of deletions to realize an efficient sticky-trie implementation.

We report on an evaluation of two representative uses---compelling Bloom-filter alternative and fast substitute for a garbage collector's sequential store buffer (SSB). We demonstrate that a sticky trie, when compared with what is perhaps among the simplest Bloom filters, can be over 43% faster, scale substantially better with increasing threads, and yet be free of false positives. By introducing the concept of an ideal SSB, we also demonstrate that a sticky trie could be competitive in performance with a class of SSBs.
JDMM
Authors: Zakkak Foivos S. , Pratikakis Polyvios
Published: May 2015

As the number of cores continuously grows, processor designers are considering non coherent memories as more scalable and energy efficient alternatives to the current coherent ones. The Java Memory Model (JMM) requires that all cores can access the Java heap. It guarantees sequential consistency for data-race-free programs and no out-of-thin-air values for non data-race-free programs. To implement the Java Memory Model over non-cache-coherent and distributed architectures Java Virtual Machines (JVMs) are most likely to employ software caching.

In this work, i) we provide a formalization of the Java Memory Model for non-cache-coherent and distributed memory architectures, ii) prove the adherence of our model with the Java Memory Model and iii) evaluate, regarding its compliance to the Java Memory Model, a state-of-the-art Java Virtual Machine implementation on a non-cache-coherent architecture.
Use of the JVM at twitter
Authors: Printezis Tony
Published: May 2015

Specialties:15+ years of virtual machine implementation experience with special focus on memory management / garbage collection. Close to 20 years of C/C++ experience. 15+ years of Java experience. Expert in concurrent/parallel programming.
Ultrasound Biomicroscopy and Scheimpflug Imaging in Anterior Megalophthalmos: Changes Seen after Cataract Surgery
Authors: Nawani Nishant , Jain Arun K. , Singh Ramandeep
Published: May 2015

Purpose. With this report we describe ultrasound biomicroscopic (UBM) findings in a patient with anterior megalophthalmos before and after undergoing phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.Methods. Phacoemulsification was carried out for nuclear sclerosis in both eyes of a patient diagnosed with anterior megalophthalmos. The patient was subjected to detailed ophthalmic examination including ultrasound biomicroscopy and Scheimpflug imaging prior to and after surgery. Preoperative ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed a deep anterior chamber with posterior bowing of the midperipheral iris in both eyes. The ciliary processes were inserted on the posterior surface of the iris. UBM was repeated postoperatively as well.Results. Phacoemulsification and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation (IOL) were carried out successfully in both eyes. The IOLs were well centered and captured within the anterior capsulorhexis. The anterior chambers were hyperdeep, 6.24 mm (OD) and 6.08 mm (OS), respectively. The posterior bowing of the midperipheral iris was absent, with the iris having a more flat profile.Conclusion. UBM findings in anterior megalophthalmos seemed to partially resolve after cataract surgery. The anterior chamber deepens appreciably as well.
Identification of Novel Mutations inSpatacsinandApolipoprotein BGenes in a Patient with Spastic Paraplegia and Hypobetalipoproteinemia
Authors: Peddareddygari Leema Reddy , Grewal Raji P.
Published: May 2015

Complicated hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) presents with complex neurological and nonneurological manifestations. We report a patient with autosomal recessive (AR) HSP in whom laboratory investigations revealed hypobetalipoproteinemia raising the possibility of a shared pathophysiology of these clinical features. A lipid profile of his parents disclosed a normal maternal lipid profile. However, the paternal lipid profile was similar to that of the patient suggesting autosomal dominant transmission of this trait. Whole exome sequence analysis was performed and novel mutations were detected in both theSPG11and theAPOBgenes. Genetic testing of the parents showed that bothAPOBvariants were inherited from the father while theSPG11variants were inherited one from each parent. Our results indicate that, in this patient, the hypobetalipoproteinemia and spastic paraplegia are unrelated resulting from mutations in two independent genes. This clinical study provides support for the use of whole exome sequencing as a diagnostic tool for identification of mutations in conditions with complex presentations.
An Unusual Neck Mass: A Case of a Parathyroid Cyst and Review of the Literature
Authors: Goomany Anand , Rafferty Amy , Smith Ian
Published: May 2015

Parathyroid cysts (PC) are an unusual cause of neck swellings. The majority are nonfunctioning and prove to be a diagnostic challenge given their nonspecific physical and radiological characteristics. This is compounded by their rare occurrence, leading them to be overlooked in the differential diagnosis of neck lumps. Imaging techniques fail to determine the origin of these lesions, but a preoperative diagnosis can be achieved by fine-needle aspiration and measurement of cystic fluid C-terminal parathyroid hormone levels. Treatment of nonfunctioning cysts remains controversial and includes needle aspiration, injection of sclerosant, or surgical excision. We present a case of a 44-year-old female presenting with an asymptomatic anterior neck swelling, diagnosed postoperatively as a parathyroid cyst.
Interaction of H2S with Calcium Permeable Channels and Transporters
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Xu Changqing , Yang Guangdong , Wu Lingyun , Wang Rui
Published: May 2015

A growing amount of evidence has suggested that hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as a gasotransmitter, is involved in intensive physiological and pathological processes. More and more research groups have found that H2S mediates diverse cellular biological functions related to regulating intracellular calcium concentration. These groups have demonstrated the reciprocal interaction between H2S and calcium ion channels and transporters, such as L-type calcium channels (LTCC), T-type calcium channels (TTCC), sodium/calcium exchangers (NCX), transient receptor potential (TRP) channels,β-adrenergic receptors, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in different cells. However, the understanding of the molecular targets and mechanisms is incomplete. Recently, some research groups demonstrated that H2S modulates the activity of calcium ion channels through protein S-sulfhydration and polysulfide reactions. In this review, we elucidate that H2S controls intracellular calcium homeostasis and the underlying mechanisms.
Physiological Implications of Hydrogen Sulfide in Plants: Pleasant Exploration behind Its Unpleasant Odour
Authors: Jin Zhuping , Pei Yanxi
Published: May 2015

Recently, overwhelming evidence has proven that hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which was identified as a gasotransmitter in animals, plays important roles in diverse physiological processes in plants as well. With the discovery and systematic classification of the enzymes producing H2Sin vivo, a better understanding of the mechanisms by which H2S influences plant responses to various stimuli was reached. There are many functions of H2S, including the modulation of defense responses and plant growth and development, as well as the regulation of senescence and maturation. Additionally, mounting evidence indicates that H2S signaling interacts with plant hormones, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and other molecules in signaling pathways.
Hydrogen Sulfide: A Therapeutic Candidate for Fibrotic Disease?
Authors: Song Kai , Li Qian , Yin Xiao-Ya , Lu Ying , Liu Chun-Feng , Hu Li-Fang
Published: May 2015

Fibrotic diseases including chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic disease account for 45% mortality in the developed countries and pose a great threat to the global health. Many great targets and molecules have been reported to be involved in the initiation and/or progression of fibrosis, among which inflammation and oxidative stress are well-recognized modulation targets. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the third gasotransmitter with potent properties in inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress in various organs. Recent evidence suggests that plasma H2S level is decreased in various animal models of fibrotic diseases and supplement of exogenous H2S is able to ameliorate fibrosis in the kidney, lung, liver, and heart. This leads us to propose that modulation of H2S production may represent a promising therapeutic venue for the treatment of a variety of fibrotic diseases. Here, we summarize and discuss the current data on the role and underlying mechanisms of H2S in fibrosis diseases related to heart, liver, kidney, and other organs.
H∞Control for Nonlinear Systems with Time-Varying Delay Using Matrix-Based Quadratic Convex Approach
Authors: Emharuethai C. , Niamsup P.
Published: May 2015

H∞control problem for nonlinear system with time-varying delay is considered by using a set of improved Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals including some integral terms, and a matrix-based on quadratic convex, combined with Wirtinger's inequalities and some useful integral inequality.H∞controller is designed via memoryless state feedback control and new sufficient conditions for the existence of theH∞state feedback for the system are given in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained result.
PWS/AS MS-MLPA Confirms Maternal Origin of 15q11.2 Microduplication
Authors: Dawson Angelika J. , Cox Janice , Hovanes Karine , Spriggs Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

The proximal region of the long arm of chromosome 15q11.2-q13 is associated with various neurodevelopmental disorders, including Prader-Willi (PWS) and Angelman (AS) syndromes, autism, and other developmental abnormalities resulting from deletions and duplications. In addition, this region encompasses imprinted genes that cause PWS or AS, depending on the parent-of-origin. This imprinting allows for diagnosis of PWS or AS based on methylation status using methylation sensitive (MS) multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MLPA). Maternally derived microduplications at 15q11.2-q13 have been associated with autism and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Multiple methods have been used to determine the parent-of-origin for 15q11.2-q13 microdeletions and microduplications. In the present study, a four-year-old nondysmorphic female patient with developmental delay was found to have ade novo~5 Mb duplication within 15q11.2 by oligonucleotide genomic array. In order to determine the significance of this microduplication to the clinical phenotype, the parent-of-origin needed to be identified. The PWS/AS MS-MLPA assay is generally used to distinguish between deletion and uniparental disomy (UPD) of 15q11.2-q13, resulting in either PWS or AS. However, our study shows that PWS/AS MS-MLPA can also efficiently distinguish the parental origin of duplications of 15q11.2-q13.
Gastrointestinal Biopsies for the Diagnosis of Alpha-Synuclein Pathology in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Cersosimo Maria Graciela
Published: May 2015

The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) relies on clinical features whereas pathological confirmation is only possible with autopsy examination. The neuropathological hallmarks of PD are neuronal loss and the presence of inclusions termed Lewy bodies/neurites in affected regions. A major component of these inclusions is phosphorylated alpha-synuclein (α-SYN) protein. There is evidence thatα-SYN pathology is widely distributed outside the central nervous system in patients with PD. The gastrointestinal tract is importantly affected byα-SYN containing inclusions and typically there is a rostrocaudal gradient for the distribution of the pathology. The highest amounts of Lewy bodies/neurites are found at the submandibular gland together with the lower esophagus and the lowest amounts are found in the rectum. Autopsy findings prompted research aimed at achieving in vivo pathological diagnosis of PD by demonstrating the presence ofα-SYN pathology in biopsy material of these peripheral accessible tissues. So far, biopsy studies of the gut have demonstrated the presence ofα-SYN pathology in the salivary glands, stomach, duodenum, colon, and rectum. Further research is necessary in order to determine which are the most sensitive targets for in vivoα-SYN pathology detection and the safest techniques for these approaches in patients with PD.
Small Molecule Kaempferol Promotes Insulin Sensitivity and Preserved Pancreaticβ-Cell Mass in Middle-Aged Obese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Alkhalidy Hana , Moore William , Zhang Yanling , McMillan Ryan , Wang Aihua , Ali Mostafa , Suh Kyung-Shin , Zhen Wei , Cheng Zhiyong , Jia Zhenquan , Hulver Matthew , Liu Dongmin
Published: May 2015

Insulin resistance and a progressive decline in functionalβ-cell mass are hallmarks of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Thus, searching for natural, low-cost compounds to target these two defects could be a promising strategy to prevent the pathogenesis of T2D. Here, we show that dietary intake of flavonol kaempferol (0.05% in the diet) significantly ameliorated hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and circulating lipid profile, which were associated with the improved peripheral insulin sensitivity in middle-aged obese mice fed a high-fat (HF) diet. Kaempferol treatment reversed HF diet impaired glucose transport-4 (Glut4) and AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) expression in both muscle and adipose tissues from obese mice.In vitro, kaempferol increased lipolysis and prevented high fatty acid-impaired glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, AMPK activity, and Glut4 expression in skeletal muscle cells. Using another mouse model of T2D generated by HF diet feeding and low doses of streptozotocin injection, we found that kaempferol treatment significantly improved hyperglycemia, glucose tolerance, and blood insulin levels in obese diabetic mice, which are associated with the improved isletβ-cell mass. These results demonstrate that kaempferol may be a naturally occurring anti-diabetic agent by improving peripheral insulin sensitivity and protecting against pancreaticβ-cell dysfunction.
Lingual Thyroid Excision with Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Ersoy Callıoglu Elif , Bozdemir Kazım , Ulusoy Bulent , Oguzhan Tolga , Korkmaz M. Hakan
Published: May 2015

Ectopic thyroid gland may be detected at any place between foramen caecaum and normal thyroid localization due to inadequacy of the embryological migration of the thyroid gland. It has a prevalence varying between 1/10.000 and 1/100000 in the community. Usually follow-up without treatment is preferred except for obstructive symptoms, bleeding, and suspicion of malignity. Main symptoms are dysphagia, dysphonia, bleeding, dyspnea, and obstructive sleep apnea. In symptomatic cases, the first described method in surgical treatment is open approach since it is a region difficult to have access to. However, this approach has an increased risk of morbidity and postoperative complications. Transoral robotic surgery, which is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, has advantages such as larger three-dimensional point of view and ease of manipulation due to robotic instruments. In this report, a case at the age of 49 who presented to our clinic with obstructive symptoms increasing within the last year and was found to have lingual thyroid and underwent excision of ectopic thyroid tissue by da Vinci surgical system is presented.
A Rare Complication of Radiofrequency Tonsil Ablation: Horner Syndrome
Authors: Kucur Cuneyt , Ozbay Isa , Oghan Fatih , Yildirim Nadir , Zeybek Sivas Zuhal , Canbaz Kabay Sibel
Published: May 2015

Chronic tonsillitis is a common disease, and several different surgical techniques are used to treat this condition. In recent years, techniques such as radiofrequency ablation and coblation have been commonly used for tonsil surgery. In this report, we present the cases of two pediatric patients who developed ptosis, miosis, and enophthalmos (Horner syndrome) after radiofrequency ablation for tonsil reduction and discuss the technique of radiofrequency ablation of the tonsils. In the early postoperative period, miosis and ptosis were observed on the right side in one patient and on the left side in the other patient. Both patients were treated with 1 mg/kg/day methylprednisolone, which were tapered by halving the dose every 3 days. Miosis and ptosis improved after treatment in both patients. Along with the case presentation, we discuss the effectiveness and complications of radiofrequency ablation of the tonsils. These unusual complications of tonsil ablation may help ENT physicians who do not yet have a preferred surgical technique for tonsillectomy to make an informed decision. Limited data are available about the possible complications of radiofrequency ablation of the tonsils. The present report contributes to the literature on this topic.
Ophthalmic Metastasis of Breast Cancer and Ocular Side Effects from Breast Cancer Treatment and Management: Mini Review
Authors: Georgalas Ilias , Paraskevopoulos Theodore , Koutsandrea Chryssanthi , Kardara Evgenia , Malamos Panagiotis , Ladas Dimitrios , Papaconstantinou Dimitris
Published: May 2015

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases occurring in women, and its incidence increases over the years. It is the main site of origin in ocular metastatic disease in women, and, due to its hematogenous nature of metastatic spread, it affects mainly the uveal tissue. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the clinical manifestations of the breast cancer ocular metastatic disease, alongside the side effects of the available treatment options for the management and regression of the systematic and ophthalmic disease.
Matching Diabetes and Alcoholism: Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Neurogenesis Are Commonly Involved
Authors: Barcia Jorge M. , Flores-Bellver Miguel , Muriach Maria , Sancho-Pelluz Javier , Lopez-Malo Daniel , Urdaneta Alba C. , Martinez-Gil Natalia , Atienzar-Aroca Sandra , Romero Francisco J.
Published: May 2015

Diabetes and alcohol misuse are two of the major challenges in health systems worldwide. These two diseases finally affect several organs and systems including the central nervous system. Hippocampus is one of the most relevant structures due to neurogenesis and memory‐related processing among other functions. The present review focuses on the common profile of diabetes and ethanol exposure in terms of oxidative stress and proinflammatory and prosurvival recruiting transcription factors affecting hippocampal neurogenesis. Some aspects around antioxidant strategies are also included. As a global conclusion, the present review points out some common hits on both diseases giving support to the relations between alcohol intake and diabetes.
An Anticancer Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Human Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhang Li , Qi Qi , Yang Jianqiang , Sun Dongsheng , Li Chunfeng , Xue Yingwei , Jiang Qiuying , Tian Ye , Xu Changqing , Wang Rui
Published: May 2015

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) can be synthesized in mammalian cells by cystathionineγ-lyase (CSE) and/or cystathionineβ-synthase (CBS). Both CSE and CBS are expressed in rat gastric tissues but their role in human gastric neoplasia has been unclear. The aims of the present study were to detect CSE and CBS proteins in human gastric cancer and determine the effect of exogenous NaHS on the proliferation of gastric cancer cells. We found that both CSE and CBS proteins were expressed in human gastric cancer cells and upregulated in human gastric carcinoma mucosa compared with those in noncancerous gastric samples. NaHS induced apoptosis of gastric cancer cells by regulating apoptosis related proteins. Also, NaHS inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion. An antigastric cancer role of H2S is thus indicated.
Nilotinib-Associated Destructive Thyroiditis
Authors: Bakerywala Suhalia , Schwarcz Monica D. , Goldberg Michael D. , Valiquette Guy , Weiss Irene A.
Published: May 2015

Protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors are currently an important drug class in the treatment of leukemia. They represent targeted cancer therapy and have become the treatment of choice in chronic myeloid leukemia. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes expressed in multiple tissues and are involved in several signaling pathways influencing cellular growth. Below we describe a patient who developed an unusual complication of tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy: thyrotoxicosis due to destructive thyroiditis. We review the pathophysiology of tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced thyroid dysfunction particularly with regard to new second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Outcome in Patients with High Body Mass Index following Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Hakim Zuned , Rutherford Claire , Mckiernan Elizabeth , Helm Tony
Published: May 2015

Obesity is becoming a critical problem in the developed world and is associated with an increased incidence of osteoarthritis of the hip. The Oxford Hip Score was used to determine if Body Mass Index (BMI) is an independent factor in determining patient outcome following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Using data from 353 operations we found that patients with BMI ≥ 30 had an absolute score that was lower preoperatively and postoperatively compared to those with a BMI < 30. There was no difference in pre- and postoperative point score change within each group; Kendall’s rank correlation was 0.00047 (95% CI, −0.073 to 0.074 (p=0.99)) and demonstrated no trend. There was no statistically significant difference in change between those with BMI ≥ 30 and < 30 (p=0.65). We suggest that those with a higher BMI be considered for THA as they can expect the same degree of improvement as those with a lower BMI. Given the on-going increase in obesity these findings could be significant for the future of THA.
Early Obesity Prevention: A Randomized Trial of a Practice-Based Intervention in 0–24-Month Infants
Authors: Schroeder Natalia , Rushovich Berenice , Bartlett Edward , Sharma Sangita , Gittelsohn Joel , Caballero Benjamin
Published: May 2015

Objective. A pediatric office-based intervention was implemented following a randomized, controlled design, aimed at improving child feeding practices and growth patterns and ultimately reducing risk for overweight and obesity later in life.Methods. Four clinics (232 infants) were randomized to control or intervention (I), the latter delivered by health care provider at each of 7–9 well-baby visits over 2 years, using a previously developed program (Growing Leaps and Bounds) that included verbal, visual, and text advice and information for parents.Results. The I group offered significantly less sodap=0.006, sweetened teap=0.01, punchp=0.02and/or cow’s milkp=0.001to infants and delayed the introduction of drink/food other than breast milkp<0.05. Parents in the I group had a higher perceived parental monitoringp=0.05and restrictionp=0.01on infant feeding. While the I group exhibited at baseline more adverse socioeconomic indicators than the control group, growth trajectory or body size indices did not significantly differ between groups.Conclusions. Education provided by health care providers in addition to follow-up monthly phone calls may help modify parental behaviors related to child feeding and increase parental sense of responsibility toward child eating behaviors.
Sodium Sulphate Effect on Cement Produced with Building Stone Waste
Authors: Sancak Emre , Özkan Şükrü
Published: May 2015

In this study, the blended cements produced by using the building stone waste were exposed to sulphate solution and the cement properties were examined. Prepared mortar specimens were cured under water for 28 days and then they were exposed to three different proportions of sodium sulphate solution for 125 days. Performances of cements were determined by means of compressive strength and tensile strength tests. The broken parts of some mortar bars were examined with scanning electron microscope (SEM). Besides, they were left under moist atmosphere and their length change was measured and continuously monitored for period of 125 days. In blended cements, solely cements obtained by replacing 10–20% of diatomites gave similar strength values with ordinary Portland cement (CEM I 42.5R) at the ages of 7, 28, and 56 days. In all mortar specimens that included either waste andesite (AP) or marble powder (MP) showed best performance against very severe effective sodium sulphate solutions (13500 mg/L).
Enterococcus gallinarumSpontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in an HCV Cirrhotic
Authors: Abidali Hussein , Sheikh Maheen , Abidali Moustapha , Abidali Ali , Farraji Hamoudi S. , Berry Andrew C.
Published: May 2015

We present the case of a 60-year-old Caucasian male with history of hepatitis C viral cirrhosis with portosystemic encephalopathy and ascites with evidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) with absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 944 cells/µL blood. Despite adequate treatment, the abdominal pain and elevated creatinine continued to persist. Initial ascites fluid cultures returned back positive for growth ofEnterococcus gallinarum. Empiric antibiotics were then substituted with ampicillin/sulbactam. Our case ofEnterococcus gallinarumcausing SBP is only the seventh case reported in the literature to date.
Superoxide Mediates Depressive Effects Induced by Hydrogen Sulfide in Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Yu Haiyun , Xu Haiyan , Liu Xiaoni , Zhang Nana , He Anqi , Yu Jerry , Lu Ning
Published: May 2015

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and oxidative stress. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that H2S exerts its cardiovascular effects by reducing oxidative stress via inhibition of NADPH oxidase activity in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM). We examined cell distributions of cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and effects of H2S on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). We found that CBS was expressed in neurons of the RVLM, and the expression was lower in SHRs than in Wistar-Kyoto rats. Microinjection of NaHS (H2S donor), S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM, a CBS agonist), or Apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitor) into the RVLM reduced the ROS level, NADPH oxidase activity, and MAP, whereas microinjection of hydroxylamine hydrochloride (HA, a CBS inhibitor) increased MAP. Furthermore, intracerebroventricular infusion of NaHS inhibited phosphorylation ofp47phox, a key step of NADPH oxidase activation. Since decreasing ROS level in the RVLM reduces MAP and heart rate and increasing H2S reduces ROS production, we conclude that H2S exerts an antihypertensive effect via suppressing ROS production. H2S, as an antioxidant, may be a potential target for cardiovascular diseases.