bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on Lightweight and Lime Stabilized Earth Composites
Authors: Liuzzi Stefania , Stefanizzi Pietro
Published: October 2015

An experimental investigation on different clay-based plasters with straw (lightweight plaster) and lime (stabilized plaster) was carried out. The aim of the study was to increase the knowledge on earthen materials in terms of final performance in building applications. In the first part of the study different thermal and hygric parameters were measured: thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, sorption capacity, water vapour permeability. Furthermore, in order to test the suitability of the unfired clay as mortar, an analysis on the mechanical strengths was carried out, measuring the compressive and the bending strength. The results show, on one hand, that when straw is added to the basic mixture a significant improvement of the sorption capacity occurs, while, the addition of lime enhances the thermal properties. On the other hand, no significant improvement of mechanical strengths can be appreciated when using these additives.
Nomenclature
Material Characteristics and Building Physics for Energy Efficiency
Authors: Kamal Mohammad Arif
Published: October 2015

Current modern technology in construction can dramatically reduce energy consumed in buildings for mechanical heating and cooling. The application of the latest advancements in various technologies including developments in material science, and using environment friendly building materials is of prime concern. The reductions in building envelope heat losses combined with optimized material configuration and the proper amount of thermal insulation and thermal mass in the building envelope help to reduce the building cooling and heating energy demands and building related CO2 emission into the atmosphere. The selection of appropriate building material helps us to use the energy efficiently. This paper presents a brief study about the building physics and material characteristics that helps in selecting proper building materials.
The relationship between serum hormone levels (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone) and semen parameters
Authors: Keskin Mehmet Zeynel , Budak Salih , Zeyrek Tuǧba , Çelik Orçun , Mertoglu Oguz , Yoldas Mehmet , Ilbey Yusuf Özlem
Published: October 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of serum gonadotropin and total testosterone levels on semen parameters. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and eighty-two patients that applied to a male infertility polyclinic were included in our study. Serum gonadotropin and total testosterone levels and semen parameters of the patients were analyzed during the first visit to the clinic. The reference FSH value was 1.5-12.4 mIU/mL, that of LH was 1.7-8.6 mIU/mL and the reference value for total testosterone was 249-836 ng/dL. Results: While there was no statistically significant difference between the patients with low gonadotropin levels and the controls regarding any of the semen parameters (p > 0.05), there was a strong statistically significant difference between the patients with high gonadotropin levels and the controls regarding sperm concentration (p = 0.000), total motility (p = 0.000), progressive motility (p = 0.000), and morphology (p = 0.000). There was a strong statistically significant difference between the patients with low testosterone levels and the controls regarding total motility (p = 0.012) and progressive motility (p = 0.010), and a weak statistically significant difference in morphology (p = 0.042). There was no statistically significant difference in semen volume or sperm concentration (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in any of the semen parameters between the patients with high testosterone levels and the controls (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Our findings especially regarding LH and T levels are not in agreement with previous reports. In this regard, there is a need for larger-scale and randomized trials to resolve this discrepancy.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of parotid gland as a subsequent neoplasm in children treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Nair Reghu K. Sukumaran , Rajeswari Binitha , Thankamony Priyakumari , Parukuttyamma Kusumakumary
Published: October 2015

We report two cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma occurring as a second neoplasm following treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Both patients underwent parotidectomy as the primary treatment. One of them received irradiation in addition to surgery. We discuss the risk of developing MEC as a second malignancy, prognosis, and treatment options.
Clear cell hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sakhuja Puja , Mishra Pramod K. , Rajesh R. , Sharma Ashok Kumar , Gondal Ranjana , Singh Meeta
Published: October 2015

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer world-wide with a higher incidence in Asia. Clear cell variant of HCC (CCHCC) has a frequency ranging from 0.4% to 37%. The presence of 90-100% clear cells is rare. In the present case, a 35-year-old female patient presented with fever and a large abdominal mass in the right hypochondrium. Histology of the tumor revealed >95% clear cells and after taking multiple sections from different areas of tumor only few scattered cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm were found. Immunohistochemistry with Hep Par 1, Glypican 3 and polyclonal carcinoembryonic antigen were negative as were all other markers for metastatic clear cell tumors. Histological diagnosis was based on routine H and E sections showing a histological pattern of architecture with thickened trabeculae. We describe a rare case of CCHCC with >95% clear cells and no immunoreactivity in tumor cells in a non-cirrhotic liver.
Ovarian dysgerminoma with normal serum tumour markers presenting in a child with precocious puberty
Authors: Kamal Naglaa M. , Khan Ubaidullah , Mirza Shazia , Mazoun Kais , Mirza Farahat M. , Jundi Majd
Published: October 2015

A 7-year-old female child was presented to the emergency room with acute abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Her assessment revealed a firm large lower abdominal mass with evidence of precocious puberty with bilaterally symmetrically enlarged breast (Tanner stage B4-P1-A1). Abdominal imaging showed a well-defined soft midline pelvi-abdominal single mass measuring 7.0 × 12.6 × 11.7 cms with no ascites. Serum tumour markers including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), beta-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (B-hCG) and luteinizing hormone/follicular stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) were all normal. At operation, there was a huge abdominal tumour weighing 558 grams, localized to the right ovary sparing the left ovary, uterus, lymph nodes and other abdominal organs. Unilateral right salpingo-oophorectomy was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed ovarian dysgerminoma with intact capsule; FIGO Ia. Immunohistochemical stainings were positive for placental alkaline phosphatase (PALP), CD 117(c-kit) and calretinin focally but was negative for cancer antigen-125 (CA-125), B-hCG, S-100, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and leukocyte common antigen (LCA). Being fitting in the low risk classification, the wait and see protocol was selected with strict follow-up with pediatric oncologist and pediatric surgeon. Along the duration of 2 years follow up, there was no more vaginal bleeding with dramatic reduction of the breast size and no recurrence.
Light chain multiple myeloma presenting with spinal plasmacytoma
Authors: Satija Bhawna , Gupta Rajat , Kumar Sanyal , Chandoke Raj
Published: October 2015

Plasmacytoma, an initial presentation of multiple myeloma, is extremely rare and an unusual cause of spinal cord compression in a young male. A 35-year-old man presented with complaints of progressive weakness and tingling of bilateral lower limbs, severe backache for 3 months, and bladder and bowel incontinence for 1 week duration. Imaging demonstrated lytic destruction of 10th and 11th dorsal vertebrae with large soft tissue component and compression of the spinal cord. Biopsy was performed under computed tomography guidance and the histopathology demonstrated presence of plasmacytoma. Serum electrophoresis and bone marrow examination confirmed the diagnosis of light chain multiple myeloma. Though the magnetic resonance imaging the appearance of spinal plasmacytoma is nonspecific, a minibrain appearance has been considered pathognomonic. This case is reported for the unusual radiological appearance of this entity mimicking giant cell tumor.
A case report of breast and liver metastases of thyroid follicular carcinoma
Authors: Tanriverdi Ozgur , Avci Azu , Yugunt Ibrahim , Polat Murat
Published: October 2015

Papillary and follicular thyroid carcinomas (FTCs) have a slowly biological behavior. Most distant metastasis sites are lung and bones. Breast and liver metastasis from differentiated thyroid carcinomas is uncommon. To the best of our knowledge, in English literature follicular thyroid cancer that is metastasis to breast was only in two female cases and to liver was in five patients. Herein, we present a case in whose 68-year-old woman who had a history FTC metastasis to vertebrae and synchronously developed breast and liver metastases within 1 year after first diagnosis.
Central mucoepidermoid carcinoma
Authors: Chundru Naga Sirisha Venkata , Prasanth T. , Nandan S. R. K. , Rajesh A.
Published: October 2015

Central mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MECs) are extremely rare tumors, comprising 2-3% of all MECs reported in the literature. We report a rare case of clear cell variant of central MEC with calcifications occurring in the left posterior mandible in a 37-year-old male patient.
Primary synchronous mesenteric neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Kamath Sulata Manjunath , Pingali Saratchandra , Girish G. , Harish K.
Published: October 2015

Most neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract are traditionally termed "carcinoid tumors." More than 90% of all gastrointestinal carcinoids are located in the appendix, small intestine, rectum, and mesenteric carcinoids are rare. Even when invasive, most carcinoids are relatively indolent and display minimal histological pleomorphism. A minority of these tumors is clinically more aggressive and has a less differentiated histological pattern. Carcinoid tumors of the intestine frequently invade the mesentery, but a primary carcinoid of the mesentery is extremely rare. Mesenteric carcinoid tumors can go unrecognized due to nonspecific symptoms. We report an unusual case of two large primary mesenteric carcinoid tumors in a 38-year-old male who had excellent recovery following surgery. A complete histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and radiologic workup enabled correct diagnosis in this case.
The effect of bevacizumab for bone scintigraphy imaging
Authors: Asano Takamitsu , Takakuwa Osamu , Maeno Ken , Oguri Tetsuya , Niimi Akio
Published: October 2015

A 65-year-old man presented with pulmonary nodules and a right humeral fracture. The 99mTc-hydroxy-methylene-diphosphonate (HMDP) bone scintigraphy showed high-intensity radioisotope (RI) uptake by a tumor of the right arm. Adenocarcinoma of the lung with an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation was diagnosed on pathological examination of the computed tomography (CT)-guided needle biopsy of the right humerus. Although, gefitinib therapy was initiated, the tumor progressed. The patient was then treated with second-line chemotherapy including bevacizumab. The CT scan showed a new bone metastasis in the ilium and right sacroiliac articulation. However, this new bone metastasis was not detected by HMDP-bone scintigraphy. Physicians should be wary of the interpretations of the findings of the 99mTc HMDP bone scintigraphy after the bevacizumab treatment.
Renal primitive neuroectodermal tumor as a second malignancy after chemotherapy and radiation for Non-Hodgkin′s Lymphoma - treatment-related or just poor old bad luck?
Authors: de Menezes Jean-Louis , Patil Hitendra M. , Kannan R. , Pradhan Sultan A.
Published: October 2015

Peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) is a rare histology to be found in primary tumors of the kidney. There are less than a hundred cases reported in the English literature. Most of these have been diagnosed after surgery for a renal neoplasm diagnosed on imaging. PNET has rarely been reported as a second malignancy, and has never been reported as a second malignancy after non-Hodgkin′s lymphoma (NHL). Herein, we present our case of a 38-year-old female who developed a second malignancy in the kidney after the treatment for NHL.
Uterine angioleiomyoma
Authors: Diwaker Preeti , Pradhan Dinesh , Garg Garima , Bisaria Dipti , Gogoi Kamakhya , Mohanty Sambit K.
Published: October 2015

Uterine angioleiomyoma (AL) is an extremely rare variant of leiomyoma and only 15 cases have been reported till date. Herein we present a case of AL of the uterus in a 39-year-old multiparous female with polymenorrhagia and pain abdomen. A pelvic ultrasonogram showed a large heterogeneously hypoechoic intramural nodule in the posterior myometrium. The patient underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy. Histological examination of the nodule revealed a moderately cellular spindle cell tumor composed of interlacing fascicles of spindle to plump cells swirling around the thick walled vessels. No hypercellularity, pleomorphism, mitotic figures, or necrosis was identified. The spindle to plump cells showed strong and diffuse immunoreactivity for smooth muscle actin, desmin and progesterone receptor, focal and weak positivity for CD10 and estrogen receptor and were negative for CD34 and HMB-45. The Ki-67 labeling index was low (1%). A diagnosis of AL was offered. The patient is on follow up for over 10 months and is asymptomatic.
Recurrent angio-fibroma of breast masquerading as phyllodes tumor
Authors: Chaurasia Jai K. , Alam Feroz , Shadan Mariam , Naim Mohammed
Published: October 2015

A young Indian female presented with a recurring tumor in the right breast masquerading as phyllodes tumor. Patient had history of five times excision and recurrences of the tumor, diagnosed as fibrous phyllodes of the breast. Presently, a well-circumscribed tumor of about 10 cm size, comprising of benign fibrous-angiomatous tissue with evidence of foci of pyogenic vasculitis was observed. Immuno-histochemical markers for the myo-epithelial and epithelial elements excluded the possibility of fibrous phyllodes, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, desmoid fibromatosis, and metaplastic carcinoma. The present findings were diagnostic of an inflammatory angio-fibroma of the right breast, not reported in the earlier literature. The observations indicated that the female breast may be susceptible to spontaneous productive and common-antibiotic-resistant focal septic vascular inflammation giving rise to angio-fibromatous proliferation producing a well-defined tumor mass in the breast, distinguishable from the other breast lesions by the connective tissue stains and immuno-histochemical markers.
Neurocutaneous melanocytosis presenting in a teenager
Authors: Monica I. , Kumar L. Pavan , Uppin Megha S. , Naidu Kotiyala V. Jagannath Rao
Published: October 2015

Neuro cutaneous melanocytosis (NCM) is a non-familial, congenital disorder characterized by multiple congenital nevi and brain or leptomeningeal abnormal melanin deposits. Here, we present an adult onset NCM. A 17-year-old boy presented with headache and double vision for 1 month. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed hydrocephalus and abnormal meningeal hyper intensities in supra and infratentorial regions predominantly in the posterior fossa. Para medullary region showed an 11 × 10 mm nodular contrast enhancing nodule. Resection of an intramedullary central nervous system lesion revealed melanoma while skin biopsy was benign melanocytic nevus. As per Kadonaga and Frieden criteria, a diagnosis of NCM was made. Planned for craniospinal irradiation by three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy with a dose of 36 Gy, in 18 fractions (2 Gy/fraction and 5 days in a week) along with steroids however patient progressed and developed quadriplegia with intradural metastasis.
Image findings of a false positive radioactive iodine-131 uptake mimicking metastasis in pulmonary aspergillosis identified on single photon emission computed tomography-computed tomography
Authors: Karuppusamy Kamaleshwaran Koramadai , Antony Joppy , Radhakrishnan E. R. , Shinto Ajit Sugunan
Published: October 2015

High doses of iodine-131 are commonly used in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer after total or subtotal thyroidectomy, in order to ablate the remaining cancer or normal thyroid tissue. Multiple different false-positive scans can occur in the absence of residual thyroid tissue or metastases. The authors present a case of abnormal uptake of radioactive iodine in the aspergilloma, potentially masquerading as pulmonary metastases.
Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the vulva in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: El Kacemi Hanan , Lalya Issam , Kebdani Tayeb , Benjaafar Noureddine
Published: October 2015

The primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the vulva is a very rare pathological entity. We report a case of 37-year-old patient that presented a germinating ulcerating tumor in the small right vulva. The histology objectified a B lymphoma with a positive CD20 reaction. The patient underwent three typical chemotherapy sessions by rituximab-cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone, followed by external radiotherapy on the pelvis and bilateral inguinal lymph nodes areas with an excellent answer and survival without particular events within 36 months of recession. Through this case report, we discuss the diagnostic features of this pathological entity, considering diagnosis and treatment are different compared to other tumors that are commonly found in the vulva.
Nasal mucosal metastasis in a case of carcinoma esophagus
Authors: Yathiraj Prahlad H. , Patil Asawari , Ghosh-Laskar Sarbani
Published: October 2015

A 60-year-old male, chronic alcoholic and smoker with decompensated cirrhosis was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma lower-third esophagus with multiple liver metastasis. While on palliative chemotherapy, the patient presented with a lesion at the tip of the nose. Excision of the lesion was performed suspecting mucormycosis. Histopathological examination revealed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma esophagus, similar to the initial disease. The nasal lesion recurred in 2 months, which was palliated with external radiotherapy given to the nasal lesion as well as the primary. The aim of this article is to present this rare case and review literature related to metastatic carcinoma of the esophagus with focus on nasal metastasis.
Gastric metastases from breast cancer
Authors: Shetty K. S. Rachan , Challa Vasu Reddy , Lakshmaiah K. C. , Champaka G. , Babu K. Govind
Published: October 2015

Though breast cancer is a common cancer it rarely metastasizes to stomach. Lobular carcinoma is the most common histological type which presents with gastric metastases. The most common presentation is linitis plastica. Here, we would like to report two cases of invasive ductal breast cancer who presented with gastric metastases. One case presented as linitis plastica and the other as nodular growth. Both were given palliative chemotherapy and both responded partially. One patient was succumbed to death in 6 months and the other patient is surviving 7 months after diagnosis of gastric metastases. In conclusion, gastric metastases from breast cancer are rare and are associated with poor prognosis. We would like to add these cases to the literature due to its rarity.
Signet ring cell neuroendocrine tumor liver with mesenteric metastasis
Authors: Haq Sheefa , Batra Vineeta V. , Majumdar Kaushik , Javed Amit , Agarwal Anil K. , Sakhuja Puja
Published: October 2015

Primary hepatic signet ring cell neuroendocrine tumor (NET) is extremely rare, and may show both neuroendocrine and glandular differentiation. Unlike the usual signet ring cells of adenocarcinoma, these cells are characterized by mucin negative, cytokeratin and chromogranin positive intracytoplasmic vacuoles resembling signet ring cells. These tumors are usually well demarcated surgically resectable lesions. To the best of our knowledge, we report the fifth case of primary hepatic signet ring cell NET, with the present case bearing multiple hepatic space occupying lesions and mesenteric metastasis. Due to very few isolated reports, prognosis of NET with signet ring cell morphology is largely unknown. Documentation of this case with review of related literature may enrich the existing knowledge regarding the outcome and management of this rare tumor.
Plasmacytoma rectum extending to para-rectal region
Authors: Gohil Mehul Hamjibhai , Bhavsar Devang C. , Suryanarayana U. , Jetly Dhaval H.
Published: October 2015

Solitary plasmacytoma most commonly presents in bone (80%), while extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is an uncommon (20%) entity that most commonly involves nasopharynx or upper respiratory tract. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract occurs in approximated 10% of EMP cases, in that also solitary EMP of the rectum is an exceedingly rare entity. Here we are presenting a case of 55-year-old male patient who was diagnosed to have EMP of rectum in September 2012 who was initially operated in which de-bulking surgery with abdominoperineal resection was done with large residual lesion postoperatively. Then patient was treated with postoperative radiotherapy (RT) with conventional portals 40 Gy in 20 fractions with complete response at 3 months. Patient was followed-up until now (1 year and 2 months post-RT), without any symptom or recurrence.
Primary intraosseous carcinoma of the mandible
Authors: Geetha P. , Tejasvi M. L. Avinash , Babu B. Balaji , Bhayya Harsha , Pavani D.
Published: October 2015

Primary intraosseous carcinoma (PIOC) or Primary intraosseous squamous cell carcinoma (PIOSCC) is a rare carcinoma, which arises within the jaws without connection to the oral mucosa and presumably develops from a remnant of odontogenic epithelium. It is a rare case which arises by direct transformation of odontogenic epithelial rests in the jawbone, including the epithelial rests found within the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, remnants of the dental lamina, and the reduced enamel epithelium surrounding an unerupted/impacted tooth. Herein, we report a case of a 76-year-old male patient who came with a complaint of deviation of his jaws to one side which revealed resorption of total part of the condyle along with the condylar head and coronoid process on radiographic evaluation, which was histopathologically diagnosed as primary intraosseous carcinoma which is a very rare clinical entity.
Inverted papilloma of atypical origin with unusual extension into the oropharynx
Authors: Kamath M. Panduranga , Shenoy S. Vijendra , Prasad Vishnu , Bhojwani Kiran , Pai Radha , Mathew Neethu Mary
Published: October 2015

Inverted papilloma is a benign tumor with malignant potential that commonly arises from the lateral wall of the nose. We present a case of inverted papilloma, in a premalignant stage, of unusual origin and with oropharyngeal extension. The patient presented with complaints of a nasal mass arising from the left nasal cavity and progressively increasing in size since 2 years. On examination a fleshy, firm, sensitive mass was noted, which was attached to the medial wall, and extending posteriorly and inferiorly into the oropharynx. Diagnostic nasal endoscopy and complete excision of the mass was performed with a stable postoperative period. Histopathology of the mass revealed an inverted nasal papilloma of the septum with carcinoma in situ.
Two uncommon cases of uterine leiomyosarcomas displaying heterologous osteosarcomatous de-differentiation
Authors: Parikh Pinki , Maheshwari Amita , Rekhi Bharat
Published: October 2015

Uterine leiomyosarcomas uncommonly arise on a background of leiomyomas. Still rare is osteosarcomatous dedifferentiation in such tumors. A 60-year-old female presented with abdominal pain and underwent radiological imaging that disclosed a large, well-defined, heterogeneously enhancing uterine tumor. She underwent total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy. Another, 38-year-old female with the complaints of infertility underwent myomectomy for multiple fibroids. Multiple tumor sections from both the cases showed leiomyomas along with leiomyosarcomas and osteosarcomatous dedifferentiation. Immunohistochemically, both the tumors displayed diffuse expression of smooth muscle markers in areas of leiomyomas, reduced expression of the same in areas of leiomyosarcoma and absent expression in areas of osteosarcomatous dedifferentiation. Unfortunately, both the cases were lost to follow-up. Present cases constitute as rare documentations of uterine leiomyosarcomas, arising on a background of leiomyomas and exhibiting osteosarcomatous dedifferentiation. The value of identifying these tumor components, with extensive tumor sampling relates to their relatively aggressive clinical course.
Inflammatory pseudotumor of kidney masquerading as renal carcinoma
Authors: Babu Prakash , Kumari M. K. Kalpana , Nagaraj H. K. , Mysorekar Vijaya V.
Published: October 2015

Inflammatory pseudotumor also known as inflammatory fibroblastic tumor is a rare benign tumor, which commonly affects the lung. It is very rarely seen in the genitourinary tract. As the preoperative diagnosis, clinically and radiologically is inconclusive, it is imperative to surgically remove and confirm it on histopathologic examination. We report a case of inflammatory pseudotumor in a 51-year-old male who presented with flank pain and was treated with nephrectomy.
18F-flouro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging of solitary prostatic and pulmonary tuberculosis mimicking metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Kadihasanoglu Mustafa , Yildiz Tekin , Atahan Safak , Ausmus Andrew , Atahan Ozcan
Published: October 2015

Genitourinary tuberculosis (TB) is a common type of extrathoracic TB and can be found in isolation or associated with pulmonary TB. It contributes to 10-14% of extrapulmonary TB. Prostate TB is rare and usually found incidentally following transurethral resection of the prostate for treatment of benign prostatic obstruction as an isolated lesion in immunocompetant patient. The authors report a case of prostatic and pulmonary TB in animmunocompetant patient investigating for the positive positron emission tomography in lung and prostate. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported in the literature presenting with simultaneous hypermetabolic lesions in the prostate and lung.
Steroid cell tumor
Authors: Das Ananya , Panda Subrat , Singh A. Santa
Published: October 2015

Steroid cell tumors of the ovary account for less than 0.1% of all ovarian tumors. These tumors may present at any age with presentations related to the hormonal activity and virilizing properties of tumor. We present a case report of a young girl with ovarian steroid cell tumor, who had a complete and dramatic response to surgery alone.
Comparative analysis of the immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in keratocystic odontogenic tumor, dentigerous cyst and radicular cyst
Authors: Khot Komal , Deshmukh Siddharth B. , Alex Sheeba
Published: October 2015

Background:

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cysts. Both these factors seem to be interrelated to each other. The importance of the MMPs in the induction of the angiogenic process has recently been described. MMPs, which are produced by microvascular endothelial cells, break down the extracellular matrix. This is one of the earliest and sustained events in the process of new capillary formation. Thus, we studied the expression of VEGF and MMP-9 in Keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KCOTs), dentigerous cysts (DCs) and radicular cysts (RCs).

Materials and Methods:

Ten cases each of KCOTs, DCs and RCs and were included in the study and immunohistochemistry was performed using anti-VEGF and anti-MMP-9 antibody using standard protocol.

Result:

When the data of positive cells in the epithelium of KCOTs was compared with DCs and RCs, it showed highly significant results (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the expression of VEGF and MMP-9 in the stroma of KCOTs showed a significant result when compared to DCs and RCs. The expression of VEGF in inflammatory cells was more in RCs when compared to DCs. Also, the expression of MMP-9 was more in RCs and DCs as compared to KCOTs.

Conclusion:

Higher expression of VEGF and MMP-9 in KCOTs could be responsible for the aggressive behavior of this cyst that is currently considered a cystic tumor rather than a developmental cyst.
Necessity of CT-MRI based treatment planning for cervical tumors with retroverted uterus
Authors: Singh Daleep , Latha Hema , Kapoor Akhil , Mayilvaganan Athiyaman , Jakhar Shankar Lal , Kumar Harvindra Singh
Published: October 2015

Treatment of carcinoma cervix is a complex issue influenced by numerous factors, including the patient′s age, clinical stage of the disease, position of the uterus, comorbidities, etc. The major drawback of the conventional four-field box technique is the lack of complete information about the flexion of the uterus and topography of the tumor. These are further influenced by bladder and rectal filling, which may lead to geographical miss of the clinical target volume (CTV). This problem was noticed mainly in the anterior and posterior borders of the lateral fields and in the superior and lateral borders of the anteroposterior fields. We demonstrate the need for computed tomographic-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based 3D planning of each patient and necessity of sagittal MRI for designing lateral portal in case of conventional four-field technique through an example of a patient′s sagittal MRI of pelvis showing retroverted uterus.
The role of the vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor receptors axis mediated angiogenesis in curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers induced human HepG2 cells apoptosis
Authors: Wang Fengling , He Zhengmin , Dai Wenting , Li Qi , Liu Xiuzhen , Zhang Zhengsheng , Zhai Dandan , Chen Jin , Chen Weidong
Published: October 2015

Background:

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), the active constituent of turmeric extract has potent anti-cancer properties have been demonstrated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its underlying molecular mechanism of therapeutic effects remains unclear. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs) have crucial roles in tumor angiogenesis.

Purpose:

The goal of this study was to investigate the role of the VEGF/VEGFRs mediated angiogenesis during the proliferation and apoptosis of human HepG2 hepatoma cell line and the effect of curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (Cur-NLC).

Materials and Methods:

The proliferation of HepG2 cells was determined by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium after exposure to Cur-NLC and native curcumin. Apoptosis was quantified by flow cytometry with annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide staining. Cellular internalization of Cur-NLC was observed by fluorescent microscope. The level of VEGF was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The expression of VEGFRs was quantified by Western blotting.

Results:

Cur-NLC was more effective in inhibiting the proliferation and enhancing the apoptosis of HepG2 cells than native curcumin. Fluorescent microscope analysis showed that HepG2 cells internalized Cur-NLC more effectively than native curcumin. Furthermore, Cur-NLC down-regulated the level of VEGF and the expression of VEGFR-2, but had a slight effect on VEGFR-1.

Conclusion:

These results clearly demonstrated that Cur-NLC was more effective in anti-cancer activity than the free form of curcumin. These studies demonstrate for the 1st time that Cur-NLC exerts an antitumor effect on HepG2 cells by modulating VEGF/VEGFRs signaling pathway.
Imaging findings after radiotherapy to the pelvis
Authors: Lachi Pavan Kumar , Patnaik Sujatha , Amit K. , Naidu K. V. J. R.
Published: October 2015

Carcinoma cervix is the second most common malignancy in women worldwide, and it remains a leading cause of cancer-related death in women in developing countries. The use of radiation therapy to treat cancer inevitably involves exposure of normal tissues. As a result, patients may experience symptoms associated with damage to normal tissue during the course of therapy for a few weeks after therapy or months or years later. Here we describe few cases developed normal tissue complications following radiotherapy to the pelvis. Many factors contribute to risk and severity of normal tissue reactions; these factors are site specific and vary with time after treatment. Treatments that reduce the risk or severity of damage to normal tissue or that facilitate the healing of radiation injury are being developed. These could greatly improve the quality of life of patients treated for cancer.
Candidate gene biodosimeters of mice and human exposure to ionizing radiation by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Rezaeejam Hamed , Shirazi Alireza , Valizadeh Majid , Izadi Pantea
Published: October 2015

Understanding of cellular responses to ionizing radiation (IR) is essential for the development of predictive markers useful for assessing human exposure. Biological markers of exposure to IR in human populations are of great interest for assessing normal tissue injury in radiation oncology and for biodosimetry in nuclear incidents and accidental radiation exposures. Traditional radiation exposure biomarkers based on cytogenetic assays (biodosimetry), are time-consuming and do not provide results fast enough and requires highly trained personnel for scoring. Hence, the development of rapid biodosimetry methods is one of the highest priorities. Exposure of cells to IR activates multiple signal transduction pathways, which result in complex alterations in gene-expression. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) has become the benchmark for the detection and quantification of RNA targets and is being utilized increasingly in monitoring the specific genes with more accurately and sensitively. This review evaluates the RT-qPCR as a biodosimetry method and we investigated the papers from 2000 up to now, which identified the genes-expression related the DNA repair, cell cycle checkpoint, and apoptosis induced by ionization radiation in peripheral blood and determined as biodosimeters. In conclusion, it could be say that RT-qPCR technique for determining the specific genes as biodosimeters could be a fully quantitative reliable and sensitive method. Furthermore, the results of the current review will help the researchers to recognize the most expressed genes induced by ionization radiation.
Clinical impact of postprogression survival for overall survival in elderly patients (aged 75 years or older) with advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Yoshino Reiko , Imai Hisao , Mori Keita , Tomizawa Yoshio , Takei Kosuke , Tomizawa Mai , Kaira Kyoichi , Yoshii Akihiro , Watanabe Satoru , Saito Ryusei , Yamada Masanobu
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

The effects of first-line single-agent chemotherapy on overall survival (OS) might be confounded by subsequent treatments in elderly patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We, therefore, aimed to evaluate whether progression-free survival (PFS), postprogression survival (PPS), or tumor response might be a valid surrogate endpoint for OS in this patient population.

Patients and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 58 elderly patients with advanced NSCLC, who received first-line single-agent cytotoxic chemotherapy at our institution between October 2003 and November 2013. The relationships of PFS, PPS, and tumor response with OS were individually analyzed.

Results:

The study cohort included 46 men and 12 women with a median age of 79 years (range: 75-87 years). There were 30 adenocarcinomas, 22 squamous cell carcinomas, and 6 other histologic types with 1 stage IIIA, 9 IIIB, and 48 IV cases. The performance status (PS) scores were 0, 1, and 2 in 18, 35, and 5 patients, respectively. The median PFS and OS were 2.8 and 5.4 months, respectively. Our analyses revealed a strong correlation of PPS and PFS with OS, whereas that between tumor shrinkage and OS was weak. Tumor stage and PS after initial treatment were significantly associated with PPS. Individual analysis indicated that PPS might serve as a surrogate for OS in elderly patients with advanced NSCLC receiving first-line single-agent chemotherapy.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggested that the disease course after progression following first-line single-agent chemotherapy might influence the OS of elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.
Enhancing the longevity of three-dimensional dose in a diffusion-controlled Fricke gel dosimeter
Authors: Babu S. Ebenezer Suman , Singh I. Rabi Raja , Poornima C. G. , Ravindran B. Paul
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

The principle of Fricke gel dosimeter is the oxidation of ferric ions on exposure to radiation. The major limitation in this dosimeter is the post-irradiation diffusion of ferric ions leading to degradation of spatial dose information.

Aims and Objectives:

The primary objective of this study is to reduce diffusion of ferric ions post-irradiation and enhance the spatial stability of the dose for an acceptable period, within which it can be read out.

Materials and Methods:

A novel method has been proposed to achieve this aim by incorporation of an anti-oxidant in the present Fricke gel dosimeter. The modified gel prepared in this study consisted of 50 mM sulfuric acid, 0.05 mM xylenol orange, 0.5 mM ferrous ammonium sulfate, and an optimal concentration of anti-oxidant. Different concentrations of the anti-oxidant (ascorbic acid and glycine) based gel dosimeters were prepared. The performance evaluations of the same were characterized dosimetrically with high energy photons (x- and gamma rays). Spectrophotometric measurements of gel dosimeters were performed at a wavelength of 585 nm and the post-irradiation diffusion was studied by observing the dose response over time. The spatial dose information from the large volume cylindrical gel phantoms was acquired using an in-house optical computed tomography scanner.

Results:

Auto-oxidation and diffusion were controlled in the enhanced Fricke gel dosimeter by the incorporation of glycine as anti-oxidant. The post-irradiation dose in the gel dosimeter was stable up to 6 hours, thereby enhancing the longevity of three-dimensional (3D) dose.

Conclusion:

The widely established limitations of Fricke gel dosimeter viz., auto-oxidation and diffusion were overcome using a novel method that incorporated optimal quantity of glycine as a suitable anti-oxidant. This modified Fricke gel dosimeter could be used as an effective 3D dosimeter for practical applications in radiotherapy.
Study of distribution of inguinal nodes around the femoral vessels and contouring of inguinal nodes
Authors: Rao Arpitha S. , Rajmanickam Karthick , Narayanan Geeta S.
Published: October 2015

Aims:

To determine the distribution of inguinal nodes around the vessels, margins needed around the vessels and inferior extent of contouring in the inguinal region.

Subjects and Methods:

Fifty patients having pelvic malignancies with one or more malignant nodes in the inguinal region were retrospectively included in this study. The position of the nodes in relation to the vessels, size of the nodes, the distance from the center of the node to the edge of the nearest vessel was measured. Margins required to cover the nodes from the vessels and position of the nodes in relation to the lesser trochanter was noted.

Results:

Most of the nodes were placed either anteromedial (46%) or anterior (46.6%) to the vessels (92.6%). The range of margin required to cover all nodes in the anteromedial, anterior and anteriolateral direction varied from 0.8 to 2.7 cm. Only one node was more than 2 cm below the lower edge of lesser trochanter.

Conclusion:

Elective clinical target volume for inguinal lymph nodes requires a minimum margin of 2.5 cm from the femoral vessels in the anterior, anterolateral and anteromedial direction 1.5 cm margin is required medially. Inferior extent of the contour should be 2 cm below the lower edge of lesser trochanter.
Le climat et l’implantation des hommes : le cas de la Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Morel R.
Published: October 2015

Une bande zonale de moindre densité de population traverse l’Afrique aux alentours de 8°N. Des explications sociologiques ont été avancées pour expliquer cette répartition mais cette région correspond souvent à la transition entre les pluviométries à une et deux saisons humides. Une première étude est faite sur la Côte d’Ivoire en comparant des régions à même pluviosité annuelle mais de peuplement très différents. Nous utilisons diverses méthodes basées sur l’analyse des pluies, la répartition des jours secs, les bilans hydriques. Il apparaît que les risques climatiques sont importants, rendant les cultures annuelles très aléatoires, dans les zones peu peuplées.
Estimation des précipitations par télédétection au Mato Grosso (Brésil)
Authors: Dubreuil V. , Jallet A. , Ronchail J. , Maitelli G.
Published: October 2015

Dans les régions des fronts pionniers du centre du Mato Grosso, les rendements des cultures implantées par les colons depuis une vingtaine d’années (soja, canne à sucre, coton, maïs) sont encore largement tributaires de la variabilité pluviométrique interannuelle; cependant l’estimation à échelle fine des précipitations est impossible étant donné les lacunes du réseau d’observation au sol. Nous avons choisi d’utiliser les données infrarouge GOES-8 à pleine résolution (4km) pour essayer de répondre à cette question. Un premier jeu de données a été constitué en retenant pour chaque mois la valeur maximale de la température observée pour chaque pixel afin de ne conserver que l’émission en provenance du sol dont l’intensité est surtout fonction de la quantité de pluie reçue. Un second jeu de données a été constitué en seuillant les mêmes images à partir de –40°C : ainsi, l’occurrence des nuages à sommet froid pluviogènes peut être également suivie au pas de temps mensuel. Les résultats calculés sur la période de septembre 1999 à août 2000 montrent que les pluies mesurées au sol sont mieux corrélées aux occurrences (r = 0.86) qu’avec les températures maximales (r = - 0.65). Les bons résultats obtenus aux pas de temps mensuels et annuels permettent de réaliser une cartographie des précipitations par satellite qui fait clairement ressortir l’influence de la topographie.
Réchauffement global et santé : aspects généraux et quelques particularités du monde tropical
Authors: Mendonça F.
Published: October 2015

Les changements climatiques des deux derniers siècles constituent, aujourd’hui, un fait incontestable. Une élévation de l’ordre de 3 à 6° C de la température moyenne de la troposphère dans les prochains cent ans constitue une prévision que l’on accepte de manière générale. Les répercussions positives et négatives de ce réchauffement sur la nature et sur la société appartiennent encore au domaine de la spéculation, mais les répercussions négatives sont assez inquiétantes. L’incidence de certaines maladies aura tendance à diminuer mais celle de beaucoup d’autres, principalement des maladies transmissibles et infectieuses (paludisme, dengue, leptospirose, etc.) dans les tropiques, aura tendance à augmenter dans des conditions climatiques plus chaudes. L’expansion des régions les plus réchauffées vers des latitudes et vers des altitudes plus élevées sera accompagnée de l’expansion géographique de ces maladies.
La saison pluvieuse au proche-orient : une tendance au raccourcissement
Authors: Traboulsi Myriam
Published: October 2015

Les précipitations proche-orientales sont caractérisées par une grande variabilité interannuelle, particulièrement au début et à la fin de la saison pluvieuse, lorsque se produisent les précipitations les plus utiles pour la vie végétative. Cette contribution propose de déterminer des dates de démarrage et de fin de la saison pluvieuse pour la période allant de septembre 1970 à juin 2002 en appliquant une Analyse en Composantes Principales sur les données quotidiennes de 20 stations réparties sur le Liban, la Syrie, la Jordanie et Israël. Les valeurs minimales et maximales des scores cumulés de la première composante (42,2 % de la variance), calculées année par année, ont permis de déterminer des dates de début et de fin de la saison pluvieuse. Les séries temporelles montrent une tendance au raccourcissement de cette saison qui est plus liée à une fin précoce qu’à un démarrage tardif. Ce raccourcissement est associé à une tendance à la hausse du géopotentiel 500 hPa, durant la saison printanière, au-dessus de la zone étudiée.
Climat hivernal et régimes avalancheux dans les corridors routiers de la Gaspésie septentrionale (Québec, Canada)
Authors: Fortin Guillaume , Hétu Bernard , Germain Daniel
Published: October 2015

Les avalanches de neige représentent un risque naturel important dans la péninsule gaspésienne. Chaque année, des dizaines d’avalanches s’abattent sur les routes du littoral nord-gaspésien. L’objectif principal de cette étude est d’identifier les principaux facteurs de déclenchement des avalanches dans les corridors routiers du nord de la Gaspésie (Québec, Canada). Les résultats découlent de l’analyse croisée d’une banque de données sur les avalanches (141 avalanches) qui s’étend sur trois hivers consécutifs et des données météorologiques en provenance de deux stations du réseau national. Les caractéristiques du relief, telles que la dénivelée et l’exposition, sont certes très importantes mais les conditions météorologiques jouent un rôle déterminant, en particulier les précipitations. Les résultats démontrent qu’il est possible de discriminer les journées avalancheuses des journées non avalancheuses en se basant sur les quantités de précipitations reçues au cours des 24, 48 et 72 heures qui précèdent les avalanches. La fréquence élevée des redoux (cycles gel-dégel) dans cet environnement maritime a un impact sur le type de précipitations (neige ou pluie) et donc, en dernière analyse, sur le type d’avalanche observé.
Apport de la modélisation pluie-débit pour la connaissance de la ressource en eau : application au haut Bassin du Fleuve Sénégal
Authors: Bodian Ansoumana , Dezetter Alain , Dacosta Honoré
Published: October 2015

Les chroniques de débit du haut bassin du fleuve Sénégal et de sa partie guinéenne sont souvent lacunaires, discontinues, de courte durée, et donc difficilement exploitables pour une analyse hydrologique fiable. L’objectif de ce travail est de simuler puis d’étendre, dans la mesure du possible, les séries hydrologiques en utilisant le modèle pluie-débit, au pas de temps mensuel, GR2M. Dans un premier temps, après avoir calculé les pluies de bassin selon trois méthodes d’interpolation (krigeage, fonction spline et distance inverse pondérée au carré), l’ETP moyenne et la capacité en eau maximale, minimale et moyenne du sol des bassins (ou Water Holding Capacity - WHC), nous avons effectué une analyse de sensibilité du modèle aux données d’entrée pluie et WHC. Ceci a permis de choisir les meilleures combinaisons de données d’entrée par bassin en fonction du critère de Nash-Sutcliffe. Nous avons ensuite procédé au calage et à la validation croisée du modèle avec les données d’entrée choisies afin de déterminer les jeux de paramètres du modèle qui traduisent le mieux la transformation de la pluie en débit. Une fois le jeu de paramètres choisi pour chaque bassin, nous avons appliqué cette version du modèle sur l’ensemble de la série pluviométrique disponible pour simuler les débits. Cette méthodologie a permis de compléter et d’étendre les séries de débits mensuels des bassins versants de Bafing Makana, Dakka Saidou et Sokotoro de 1960 à 2000.