bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Ant Colony Algorithm in Plant Leaves Classification Based on Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis
Authors: Gao Sun Mei Lin , Wu Ping , Li Kai , Gen Zhen Hua
Published: November 2014

Intelligent classification is realized according to different components of featured information included in near infrared spectrum data of plants. The core of this theory is to research applications of ant colony algorithm in spectral analysis of plant leaves through theories and experiments. In aspect of theoretical exploration, the built-in function of clustering algorithm is used to compress and process data. In aspect of experimental research, the near infrared diffuse emission spectrum curves of the leaves of Cinnamomum camphora and Acer saccharum Marsh in two groups, which have 75 leaves respectively. Then, the obtained data are processed using ant colony algorithm and the same leaves can be classified as a class by ant colony clustering algorithm. Finally, the two groups of data are classified into two classes. Our results show the distinguishability can be 100%. Keywords:Near infrared spectroscopy; ant colony algorithm; clustering algorithm; signal processing
Determination of 6 Toxic Elements in Biological Tissues by High Pressure Digestion: Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Yi Rui , Zou Hui Jun , Zhang Run Sheng , Zeng Li Bo , Qu Hai Yun , Zhang Yu Rong , Chen Yong Sheng
Published: November 2014

Objective: A method based on high pressure digestion andinductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) detection was establishedfor determination of arsenic, mercury, lead, cadmium, chromium and thallium inbiological tissues. Method: The samplesof hair, nails, viscera, blood, urine were digested with HNO3 and H2O2in high pressure digestion tank ; Indium was used as internal standard element,The certified GBW07601a (CRM Human Hair) was adopted as the quality control forthe whole processes. Results: Theexcellent sensitivity and reliability were demonstrated by the method ofrecovery 82% ~ 110%, RSD (n = 5) less than 5% and the linear range of 0.020ng/mL to 100 ng/mL (r > 0.99). The prototype measurements are within thescope of the standard value. Standard addition recovery of the six elements is therange of 92% ~ 105%. Conclusion: Arapid, easy and accurate quantitative ICP-MS method was established fordetermination of toxic elements in the human body, which enrich the existing meansof forensic technology. At the same time, this work provide the most practicaland reliable core data for poisons metabolism and pathological study.
Influence of Aluminum Contents on Phase Behavior and Properties of TiN-Sialon-Corundum Composites by Aluminothermic Reduction Nitridation
Authors: Zhu Ling , Chen Kai , Huang Zhao Hui , Fang Ming Hao , Liu Yan Gai
Published: November 2014

TiN-Sialon-Corundum composites were synthesized from rutile and quartz by aluminothermic reduction nitridation (ARN) method. The effects of aluminum contents on the phase behavior and properties of products were investigated. At 1500 oC, the main phases of products ARNed for 4 h were large granular corundum, TiN and hexagonal columnar Si3Al3O3N5. In addition, small TiN crystal particles distributed around the Si3Al3O3N5. It suggested that TiN-Sialon-Corundum composites were successfully fabricated by ANR method at 1500 °C for 4h. With increases in the amount of aluminum contents, the compressive strength ,the flexural strength and the bulk density of the composite refractory increased while the apparent porosity decreased. When the the aluminum contents increased to 48.90%, the composites had the highest compressive strength (47.34MPa) ,flexural strength (27.70MPa), bulk density (2.27 g/cm3) and had the lowest apparent porosity (27.57 %).
Preparation and Characterization of Layered Rare Earth Compound
Authors: Zhang Lin , Yang Wei , Zhang Yan Yan , Shi Wang Yan , Jiang Dan Yu , Li Qiang
Published: November 2014

We prepared a series of organic acids pillared layered rare earth compounds Y2-xEux(OH)5X·nH2O (X= Organic acid) by hydrothermal reaction, The distance of layers was determined by X-ray diffraction, and discussed the relationship between the intercalated organic anion and the distance between the layers, In addition, the layered rare earth compound we prepared exhibited good fluorescence properties, being excited by ultraviolet light, the layered compound exhibited characteristic fluorescence spectra of Eu3+ions. But the fluorescence intensity of the layered compound changed with different intercalated organic anions, by the ratio of the electric dipole transition and magnetic dipole transitions (5D0-7F2)/ (5D0-7F1), we studied the coordination environment of the luminescent center. And discussed the relationship between intercalated organic anions and fluorescence intensity.
Sulfate-Ion Pillared Layered Hydroxide of Eu2(OH)4SO4·nH2O: Controlled Hydrothermal Processing, Thermal Decomposition, and Photoluminescence
Authors: Wang Xue Jiao , Li Ji Guang , Zhu Qi , Sun Xu Dong
Published: November 2014

Sulfate-ion pillared layered hydroxide of Eu2(OH)4SO4·nH2O (n~2, SO42--LEuH) was synthesized through controlled hydrothermal reaction, and the phase evolution of which upon calcination in the air and hydrogen was studied in detail. It was found that annealing in the air produced orthorhombic Eu2O2SO4 in the temperature range of 300-1000 °C while in flowing H2 hexagonal Eu2O2S was resulted in the 600-1000 °C range. Strong red emissions were found at 621 nm for the SO42--LEuH and 627 nm for Eu2O2S under excitation at 396 nm (the 7F0-5L6 transition of Eu3+). Improved luminescence intensity was also observed for the Eu2O2S powder calcined at a higher temperature.
Progress in Plasmonic Enhanced Bulk Heterojunction Organic/Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Tripathi S.K. , Sachdeva Sheenam , Sharma Kriti , Kaur Jagdish
Published: November 2014

To reduce the cost of solar electricity, there is an enormous potential of thin-film photovoltaic technologies. An approach for lowering the manufacturing costs of solar cells is to use organic (polymer) materials that can be processed under less demanding conditions. Organic/polymer solar cells have many intrinsic advantages, such as their light weight, flexibility, and low material and manufacturing costs. But reduced thickness comes at the expense of performance. However, thin photoactive layers are widely used, but light-trapping strategies, due to the embedding of plasmonic metallic nanoparticles have been shown to be beneficial for a better optical absorption in polymer solar cells. This article reviews the different plasmonic effects occurring due to the incorporation of metallic nanoparticles in the polymer solar cell. It is shown that a careful choice of size, concentration and location of plasmonic metallic nanoparticles in the device result in an enhancement of the power conversion efficiencies, when compared to standard organic solar cell devices.Contents of Paper
Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Characterization of Chalcogenide Nanoparticles
Authors: Bajpai Parmendra Kumar , Yadav S. , Tiwari A. , Virk Hardev Singh
Published: November 2014

Chalcogenide semiconductor nanoparticles and their self-assembly structures have become the most explored group of semiconductor nanomaterials due to the interesting physics involved in quantum confinement, surface chemistry and variety of applications. In the last couple of decades, facile routes for their synthesis and strategies for controlling the size, shape and morphology have been reported. In the present review, synthesis strategies of size and shape controlled nanoparticles belonging to II-VI group of semiconductor chalcogenides are presented and each method for preparation of nanoparticles is critically analysed. Role of various factors that affect the nucleation and growth of nanoparticles is discussed at length. Nanoparticles and self-assemblies of CdSe, CdTe, HgTe and ZnSe are synthesized using new and facile single molecular precursor based noble route by our group that uses non-pyrophoric, low temperature and non-toxic chemicals, their properties and synthesis scheme are discussed as future development in this field. Some recent applications of chalcogenides QDs in the fields of solar cell, optical fibre amplifiers, biosensing and bo-imaging are discussed and reviewed.
CD4 T Cells Specific for a Latency-Associated γ-Herpesvirus Epitope Are Polyfunctional and Cytotoxic
Authors: Freeman Michael L. , Burkum Claire E. , Cookenham Tres , Roberts Alan D. , Lanzer Kathleen G. , Huston Gail E. , Jensen Meghan K. , Sidney John , Peters Bjoern , Kohlmeier Jacob E. , Woodland David L. , van Dyk Linda F. , Sette Alessandro , Blackman Marcia A.
Published: November 2014

The oncogenic γ-herpesviruses EBV and Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus are ubiquitous human pathogens that establish lifelong latent infections maintained by intermittent viral reactivation and reinfection. Effector CD4 T cells are critical for control of viral latency and in immune therapies for virus-associated tumors. In this study, we exploited γHV68 infection of mice to enhance our understanding of the CD4 T cell response during γ-herpesvirus infection. Using a consensus prediction approach, we identified 16 new CD4 epitope-specific responses that arise during lytic infection. An additional epitope encoded by the M2 protein induced uniquely latency-associated CD4 T cells, which were not detected at the peak of lytic infection but only during latency and were not induced postinfection with a latency-deficient virus. M2-specific CD4 T cells were selectively cytotoxic, produced multiple antiviral cytokines, and sustained IL-2 production. Identification of latency-associated cytolytic CD4 T cells will aid in dissecting mechanisms of CD4 immune control of γ-herpesvirus latency and the development of therapeutic approaches to control viral reactivation and pathology.
Rictor Negatively Regulates High-Affinity Receptors for IgE-Induced Mast Cell Degranulation
Authors: Smrz Daniel , Cruse Glenn , Beaven Michael A. , Kirshenbaum Arnold , Metcalfe Dean D. , Gilfillan Alasdair M.
Published: November 2014

Rictor is a regulatory component of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 2 (mTORC2). We have previously demonstrated that rictor expression is substantially downregulated in terminally differentiated mast cells as compared with their immature or transformed counterparts. However, it is not known whether rictor and mTORC2 regulate mast cell activation. In this article, we show that mast cell degranulation induced by aggregation of high-affinity receptors for IgE (FcεRI) is negatively regulated by rictor independently of mTOR. We found that inhibition of mTORC2 by the dual mTORC1/mTORC2 inhibitor Torin1 or by downregulation of mTOR by short hairpin RNA had no impact on FcεRI-induced degranulation, whereas downregulation of rictor itself resulted in an increased sensitivity (∼50-fold) of cells to FcεRI aggregation with enhancement of degranulation. This was linked to a similar enhancement in calcium mobilization and cytoskeletal rearrangement attributable to increased phosphorylation of LAT and PLCγ1. In contrast, degranulation and calcium responses elicited by the G protein–coupled receptor ligand, C3a, or by thapsigargin, which induces a receptor-independent calcium signal, was unaffected by rictor knockdown. Overexpression of rictor, in contrast with knockdown, suppressed FcεRI-mediated degranulation. Taken together, these data provide evidence that rictor is a multifunctional signaling regulator that can regulate FcεRI-mediated degranulation independently of mTORC2.
Cutting Edge: Genetic Variation in TLR1 Is Associated with Pam3CSK4-Induced Effector T Cell Resistance to Regulatory T Cell Suppression
Authors: Mikacenic Carmen , Schneider Anya , Radella Frank , Buckner Jane H. , Wurfel Mark M.
Published: November 2014

TLR play essential roles in the initiation and modulation of immune responses. TLR1/TLR2 heterodimers recognize triacylated bacterial lipopeptides, including the synthetic TLR1/2 lipopeptide Pam3CSK4. Genetic variation in TLR1 is associated with outcomes in diseases in which regulatory T cells (Treg) play a role, including asthma and allergy. To determine whether genetic polymorphisms in TLR1 are associated with alterations in Treg suppression of effector T cells (Teff), we performed in vitro suppression assays in healthy individuals with various haplotypes in TLR1. We show that functional genetic polymorphisms in TLR1 modify surface expression of TLR1 on T lymphocytes and confer enhanced Teff resistance to Treg suppression in the presence of Pam3CSK4. These effects are mediated, in part, by IL-6 and inhibited by blocking IL-6 signaling through STAT3. These findings suggest that TLR1 polymorphisms could influence immune-related disease through Teff resistance to Treg suppression.
Diet-Induced Obesity Does Not Impact the Generation and Maintenance of Primary Memory CD8 T Cells
Authors: Khan Shaniya H. , Hemann Emily A. , Legge Kevin L. , Norian Lyse A. , Badovinac Vladimir P.
Published: November 2014

The extent to which obesity compromises the differentiation and maintenance of protective memory CD8 T cell responses and renders obese individuals susceptible to infection remains unknown. In this study, we show that diet-induced obesity did not impact the maintenance of pre-existing memory CD8 T cells, including acquisition of a long-term memory phenotype (i.e., CD27hi, CD62Lhi, KLRG1lo) and function (i.e., cytokine production, secondary expansion, and memory CD8 T cell–mediated protection). Additionally, obesity did not influence the differentiation and maintenance of newly evoked memory CD8 T cell responses in inbred and outbred hosts generated in response to different types of systemic (LCMV, L. monocytogenes) and/or localized (influenza virus) infections. Interestingly, the rate of naive-to-memory CD8 T cell differentiation after a peptide-coated dendritic cell immunization was similar in lean and obese hosts, suggesting that obesity-associated inflammation, unlike pathogen- or adjuvant-induced inflammation, did not influence the development of endogenous memory CD8 T cell responses. Therefore, our studies reveal that the obese environment does not influence the development or maintenance of memory CD8 T cell responses that are either primed before or after obesity is established, a surprising notion with important implications for future studies aiming to elucidate the role obesity plays in host susceptibility to infections.
Development and Survival of Th17 Cells within the Intestines: The Influence of Microbiome- and Diet-Derived Signals
Authors: Chewning Joseph H. , Weaver Casey T.
Published: November 2014

Th17 cells have emerged as important mediators of host defense and homeostasis at barrier sites, particularly the intestines, where the greatest number and diversity of the microbiota reside. A critical balance exists between protection of the host from its own microbiota and pathogens and the development of immune-mediated disease. Breaches of local innate immune defenses provide critical stimuli for the induction of Th17 cell development, and additional cues within these tissues promote Th17 cell survival and/or plasticity. Normally, this results in eradication of the microbial threat and restitution of homeostasis. When dysregulated, however, Th17 cells can cause a range of immune-mediated diseases, whether directed against Ags derived from the microbiota, such as in inflammatory bowel disease, or against self-Ags in a range of autoimmune diseases. This review highlights recent discoveries that provide new insights into ways in which environmental signals impact Th17 cell development and function in the intestines.
New 14C evidence for the Late Neolithic-Early Bronze Age transition in Southeast Europe
Authors: Maniatis Yannis , Tsirtsoni Zoï , Oberlin Christine , Darcque Pascal , Koukouli-Chryssanthaki Chaido , Malamidou Dimitra , Siros Tasos , Miteletsis Miltos , Papadopoulos Stratis , Kromer Bernd
Published: November 2014

The transition from the Late Neolithic (LN) period (locally also called Final Neolithic or Chalcolithic) to the Early Bronze Age (EBA) in Greece and the Southeast Balkans is an obscure period in human history. Previous radiocarbon evidence showed that in settlements with stratigraphical sequences stretching out on both periods, the absolute dates featured a gap ranging from 700 to 1000 years (roughly between 4000 and 3300/3000 cal. BC). On the other hand, there is only scarce evidence about settlements that would have been founded during the missing period, thus arising questions of paramount importance about the human occupational strategies in this period. Investigation tackling this particular problem is carried out within the framework of a broader research project (Balkans-4000) funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR). Here we discuss the latest radiocarbon results from three recently excavated multilayer settlements on the continental Greek Eastern Macedonia: Dikili Tash, Kryoneri and Sidirokastro. In all cases, the existing LN radiocarbon dates do not go beyond about 4000 BC, whereas the earliest EBA layer dates begin at around 3300 BC. A date in the last 1/3rd of the 4th millennium BC is also the date suggested for the one-layer transitional settlement on the neighbouring island of Thasos (Aghios Ioannis). The fact that the gap affects settlements of different types and locations, although there are no signs of major environmental changes, suggests that the reasons of their possible total or partial abandonment are more likely to be social than strictly environmental.
Combining dendrochronology and radiocarbon dating at the Late Medieval site of Sant’Alvise, Venice, Italy
Authors: Martinelli Nicoletta , Meadows John , Valzolgher Erio , Pignatelli Olivia , Anglani Laura , Kromer Bernd
Published: November 2014

The excavation of a series of wooden structures, built to reclaim land on Venice’s northwestern edge, provided an opportunity, using Bayesian chronological modeling, to combine precise dendrochronological and radiocarbon dating results with floating tree-ring chronologies, artifactual dating and stratigraphic evidence. Our model indicates that the first structure was built in the early AD 1340s, the second in the early AD 1370s, and the reclaimed area was extended again within about a decade of cal AD 1400. The dates of these building episodes bracket the deposition of important pottery assemblages, including imports from Spain and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Prehistoric pigment characterisation of the Abri Pataud rock-shelter (Dordogne, France)
Authors: Lebon Matthieu , Beck Lucile , Grégoire Sylvain , Chiotti Laurent , Nespoulet Roland , Menu Michel , Paillet Patrick
Published: November 2014

Iron oxide pigments found in archaeological context constitute an important source of information for the understanding of cultural and subsistence activities of ancient human cultures. In order to complete archaeological contextual information, many analytical methods have been applied to characterise pigments and to provide further information on this material (e.g. supplies, selections, mechanical or physical transformations of raw material, use and application processes). Several studies have demonstrated that the elemental composition of iron oxide pigments can be used to discriminate between several geological provenances. In this study, non-destructive micro-particle induced Xray emission analysis was applied in order to distinguish different kinds of reddish pigments from the prehistoric site of Abri Pataud, more especially from the Layer 2 attributed to Final Gravettian period (22,000 BP). By using an external beam, this technique required no sampling, and enabled us to perform localised analyses directly on raw material, on ochre residues applied on artefacts or on fragments of the wall of this rock-shelter. The results obtained by this technique demonstrate that the pigments covering the decorated fragments of the rock-shelter wall, found during the excavation of the Layer 2, have elemental compositions similar to the composition of a raw pigment found in the same layer. These results suggest that the shelter was decorated during the Final Gravettian period and thus provide new insights for the understanding of the archaeological context of this occupation layer.
A workshop for the king
Authors: Jouttijärvi Arne
Published: November 2014

Through the use of single context planning, combined with archaeobotanical and dendrochronological investigations and extensive sampling for archaeometallurgical analysis, it was possible to reconstruct the use of the workshop at Viborg Søndersø in detail. The investigations were made in close cooperation between an archaeologist (Turi Thomsen), an archaeobotanist (Annine Moltsen), a dendrochronologist (Aiofe Daly) and an archaeometallurgist (the author), the last three now members of the Danish Center for Environmental Archaeology. The workshop was erected in 1018 and used a range of different crafts including smithing, casting of silver, bronze and probably lead and comb making. Extensive silver refining apparently took place in nearby workshops. The use of the excavated workshop was a seasonal activity in the winter months and during summer only occasional repair work was done to the building. After three years of activity, the building was kept in repair for another two years and then finally torn down. It is argued that the workshop was probably established in connection with the crowning of King Canute to king of Denmark in 1018 and the minting of the Dane-geld to Danish coins. The workshop might have been used during the yearly meeting of the Thing in Viborg.
Verrucous lichen planus: a rare presentation of a common condition
Authors: Audhya Moutusi , Varughese Jenny S. , Nakhwa Yuti C.
Published: November 2014

Lichen planus is a chronic papulosquamous dermatoses in which both skin and mucosae are involved. There are various morphological forms of lichen planus. Hypertrophic lichen planus is one of the rare clinical variants. Herein, we report a very unusual presentation of hypertrophic lichen planus. A similar presentation has not been reported in literature yet, to the best of our knowledge.
Saree cancer in Indian woman treated successfully with multimodality management
Authors: Takalkar Unmesh Vidyadhar , Asegaonkar Shilpa Balaji , Kodlikeri Pushpa , Kulkarni Ujwala , Borundiya Virendrakumar , Advani Suresh H.
Published: November 2014

Saree is a common, traditional garment of Indian women, wrapped around the waist tightened by a thick cord and with one end draped over the shoulder. Tight knot in the same place, sweat, soiling and continuous use can cause pigmentation, scaling of the waist and even transform to malignancy. We present here a case of saree cancer successfully managed with multimodality therapy. A 50-year-old woman was referred to our hospital (India) for itching and non-healing ulcerative lesion on waistline. She was wearing saree continuously for 34 years with knot at the same place. Magnetic resonance images suggested ulcerative growth with lymph node metastasis. She then underwent wide local excision; histopathological examination confirmed it was a squamous cell carcinoma. She therefore received concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She is now (2 years after the completion of treatment) in remission state. Awareness of saree cancer among Indian is important to avoid malignant lesions at waistline. Multimodality management with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is ideal mean for good outcome.
Angina bullosa hemorrhagica: report of 11 cases
Authors: Ruiz Beguerie Julieta , Gonzalez Silvina
Published: November 2014

Angina bullosa hemorrhagica is a rare and benign disorder, usually localized in the subepithelial layer of the oral, pharyngeal and esophageal mucosa. The lesions are characterized by their sudden onset. They appear as a painless, tense, dark red and blood-filled blister in the mouth that rapidly expand and rupture spontaneously in 24-48 hours. The underlying etiopathology remains ill defined, although it may be a multifactorial phenomenon including diabetes, and steroid inhalers. The condition is not attributable to blood dyscrasias, nor other vesicular-bullous disorders. In this study, eleven patients with such blisters are described. Physical examination of the patients revealed a single blister with hemorrhagic content localized in the oral mucosa. Biopsy of the lesions showed sub epithelial blisters with a mild infiltrate. In general practice, dermatologists could face a blood-filled bullous lesion of the oral mucosa. Recognition is, therefore, of great importance for dermatologists.
Familial amyloidosis cutis dyschromica in three siblings: report from Indonesia
Authors: Hermawan Melyawati , Rihatmadja Rahadi , Sirait Sondang Pandjaitan
Published: November 2014

Amyloidosis cutis dyschromica (ACD) is an extremely rare type of primary cutaneous amyloidosis. To date there are fewer than 40 published cases worldwide; some were reported affecting several family members. Its resemblance to other common pigmentation disorders makes it rarely recognized at first sight. Our patient, the 12-year-old firstborn son of non-consanguineous parents presented with generalized mottled pigmentation starting from lower extremities. His siblings suffered from similar condition. The clue for diagnosis is the amyloid deposition in the papillary dermis. The etiology of ACD is still unknown, but genetic factors and ultraviolet radiation are implicated. It is proposed that disturbance of keratinocyte repair following ultraviolet radiation results in amyloid deposition. The treatment remains a challenge. Oral acitretin treatment, thought to repair keratinization defect, gave a slight improvement in our case. Our is the first case of ACD reported in Indonesia.
Progress in psoriasis therapy via novel drug delivery systems
Authors: Vincent Nitha , D Ramya Devi , BN Vedha Hari
Published: November 2014

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition which is caused by the negative signals produced by immune system, which leads to hyper proliferation and other inflammatory reactions on the skin. In this case, keratinocytes which are the outermost layer of skin possess shortened life cycle and results in the alteration of desquamation process where the cytokines will come out through lesions of affected patients and as a result, scaling marks appears on the skin. These conditions may negatively affect the patient’s quality of life and lead to psychosocial stress. Psoriasis can be categorized as mild, moderate and severe conditions. Mild psoriasis leads to the formation of rashes, and when it becomes moderate, the skin turns into scaly. In severe conditions, red patches may be present on skin surface and becomes itchy. Topical therapy continues to be one of the pillars for psoriasis management. Drug molecules with target effect on the skin tissues and other inflammations should be selected for the treatment of psoriasis. Most of the existing drugs lead to systemic intoxication and dryness when applied in higher dose. Different scientific approaches for topical delivery are being explored by researches including emollient, modified gelling system, transdermal delivery, spray, nanogels, hydrogels, micro/nano emulsion, liposomes, nano capsules etc. These topical dosage forms are evaluated for various physico chemical properties such as drug content, viscosity, pH, extrudability, spreadability, toxicity, irritancy, permeability and drug release mechanism. This review paper focus attention to the impact of these formulation approaches on various anti-psoriasis drugs for their successful treatment.
Combined therapeutic use of oral alitretinoin and narrowband ultraviolet-B therapy in the treatment of Hailey-Hailey disease
Authors: Vanderbeck Kaitlin A. , Giroux Lyne , Murugan Nirosha J. , Karbowski Lukasz M.
Published: November 2014

Hailey-Hailey disease (HHD) is a chronic familial bullous disease characterized by recurrent blisters and erosions typically at friction-prone areas of the body accompanied by acantholysis upon histologic examination. There are a number of therapies used in the management of HHD. Its symptoms have been effectively treated with antimicrobial therapies, corticosteroids and other agents such as cyclosporine and prednisone. However, such treatments are not always effective. Therefore, there is a need for new treatments for the management of HHD. In this report, a patient with long-standing HHD responsive only to high levels of prednisone is described. After the successful tapering and cessation of oral prednisone the patient began a new combination therapy of complementary doses of oral alitretinoin, and narrowband UVB therapy, which yielded a favorable response within 2-3 weeks. After 6 weeks, a mono-therapy of daily (30 mg) oral alitretinoin was sufficient to maintain successful near-complete remission of the disease.
Infection Pattern of Neutropenic Patients in Post-Chemotherapy Phase of Acute Leukemia Treatment
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Ahmad , Varnasseri Mehran , Jalili Mohammad , Maniavi Fatemeh , Valizadeh Armita , Mahmoodian Mojtaba , Keyhani Manouchehr
Published: November 2014

Neutropenia following chemotherapy regimens in leukemia patients is of major concern since it makes these patients vulnerable to infections. If we can identify which germs are causing these infections, they can be annihilated or, at least, the most appropriate antibiotic therapy can be started immediately, even before we have the results of the culture. This retrospective multi-center study took place in 2012 and included patients with acute leukemia who had already undergone chemotherapy and who had been febrile for at least 16 h. In order to assess the type of infection, different environments were chosen and the results were compared by t-test and χ2 tests. This study took place in four hospitals in Tehran and Ahwaz, Iran. The study population was made up of 89 patients: 37 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 52 with acute myeloid leukemia. The results revealed that blood was the most common site of infection. From all our positive cultures, it was seen that 85.4% of them had gram-negative bacteria with a dominance of E. coli of 25.8% over the other colonies. Also, antibiograms revealed the sensitivity of almost all the gram-negatives to amino glycosides. In contrast with most of the literature, in our patients, gram-negatives are the most common cause of infection and, therefore, administering amino glycosides would be the safest antibiotic therapy to prescribe before culture results are available.
Safety and Efficacy of PDpoetin for Management of Anemia in Patients with End Stage Renal Disease on Maintenance Hemodialysis: Results from a Phase IV Clinical Trial
Authors: Norouzi Javidan Abbas , Shahbazian Heshmatollah , Emami Amirhossein , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed , Emami-Razavi Hassan , Farhadkhani Masoumeh , Ahmadzadeh Ahmad , Gorjipour Fazel
Published: November 2014

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is available for correcting anemia. PDpoetin, a new brand of rHuEPO, has been certified by Food and Drug Department of Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran for clinical use in patients with chronic kidney disease. We conducted this post-marketing survey to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of PDpoetin for management of anemia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Patients from 4 centers in Iran were enrolled for this multicenter, open-label, uncontrolled phase IV clinical trial. Changes in blood chemistry, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, renal function, and other characteristics of the patients were recorded for 4 months; 501 of the patients recruited, completed this study. Mean age of the patients was 50.9 (±16.2) years. 48.7% of patients were female. Mean of the hemoglobin value in all of the 4 centers was 9.29 (±1.43) g/dL at beginning of the study and reached 10.96 (±2.23) g/dL after 4 months and showed significant increase overall (p < 0.001). PDpoetin dose was stable at 50-100 U/kg thrice weekly. Hemorheologic disturbancesand changes in blood electrolytes was not observed. No case of immunological reactions to PDpoetin was observed. Our study, therefore, showed that PDpoetin has significantly raised the level of hemoglobin in the hemodialysis patients (about 1.7 ± 0.6 g/dL). Anemia were successfully corrected in 49% of patients under study. Use of this biosimilar was shown to be safe and effective for the maintenance of hemoglobin in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.
Decreased Threshold of Aggregation to Low-Dose Epinephrine is Evidence of Platelet Hyperaggregability in Patients with Thrombosis
Authors: Hayes Chelsea , Kitahara Sumire , Tcherniantchouk Oxana
Published: November 2014

Sticky platelet syndrome has been described as a hereditary thrombophilic condition. The aim of this study is to identify the presence of platelet hyperaggregability in patients who have experienced thrombosis. Light-transmittance platelet aggregometry was used to assess for spontaneous platelet aggregation, aggregation in response to full and low-dose (LD) epinephrine (Epi) and adenosine diphosphate, as well as arachidonic acid, and identify a distinct pattern of platelet hyperaggregability. Light-transmittance platelet aggregometry results were correlated with PFA-100® (Dade-Behring, Marburg, Germany) results, when available. An exaggerated response to LD Epi was found in 68% of patients with thrombosis compared to only 36% of healthy controls (p = 0.034). Patients with thrombosis, either arterial or venous, demonstrated an exaggerated response to LD Epi nearly twice as frequently as healthy controls, even without significant family history of thrombophilia or other known risk factors for thrombosis. This suggests that platelet hyperaggregability may be multifactorial in nature and not necessarily hereditary.
TET2 Promoter DNA Methylation and Expression Analysis in Pediatric B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Musialik Ewa , Bujko Mateusz , Wypych Agnieszka , Matysiak Michał , Siedlecki Janusz
Published: November 2014

TET2 is a novel tumor suppressor gene involved in several hematological malignancies of myeloid and lymphoid origin. Besides loss-of-function mutations and deletions, hypermethylation of the CpG island at the TET2 promoter was found in human cancer. Previous analysis revealed no TET2 mutations in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Since the TET2 promoter methylation status in pediatric ALL has not been reported, the aim of the present study was to determine if promoter hypermethylation may be a mechanism of TET2 inactivation in a group of pediatric ALL cases. Methylation of TET2 promoter region in one (1/45) ALL B-common patient was detected by methylation specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently analyzed by bisulfite sequencing. We found no correlation between promoter methylation and gene expression, measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR, however the level of TET2 expression in ALL group was significantly decreased compared to children’s normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells and isolated B-cells. TET2 promoter hypermethylation seems to have limited clinical relevance in childhood B-cell ALL due to its low frequency.
Multiparameter Flow Cytometry to Detect Hematogones and to Assess B-Lymphocyte Clonality in Bone Marrow Samples from Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Authors: Carulli Giovanni , Ottaviano Virginia , Guerri Valentina , Giuntini Stefano , Sammuri Paola , Ciancia Eugenio M. , Azzarà Antonio
Published: November 2014

Hematogones are precursors of B-lymphocytes detected in small numbers in the bone marrow. Flow cytometry is the most useful tool to identify hematogones and, so far, 4-color methods have been published. In addition, flow cytometry is used in the diagnosis and follow-up of lymphomas. We developed a flow cytometric 7-color method to enumerate hematogones and to assess B-lymphocyte clonality for routine purposes. We evaluated 171 cases of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, either at diagnosis or in the course of follow-up. By our diagnostic method, which was carried out by the combination K/λ/CD20/CD19/CD10/CD45/CD5, we were able to detect hematogones in 97.6% of samples and to distinguish normal B-lymphocytes, neoplastic lymphocytes and hematogones in a single step. The percentage of hematogones showed a significant inverse correlation with the degree of neoplastic infiltration and, when bone marrow samples not involved by disease were taken into consideration, resulted higher in patients during follow-up than in patients evaluated at diagnosis.
Rationale for a Pediatric-Inspired Approach in the Adolescent and Young Adult Population with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, with a Focus on Asparaginase Treatment
Authors: Rizzari Carmelo , Putti Maria Caterina , Colombini Antonella , Casagranda Sara , Ferrari Giulia Maria , Papayannidis Cristina , Iacobucci Ilaria , Abbenante Maria Chiara , Sartor Chiara , Martinelli Giovanni
Published: November 2014

In the last two decades great improvements have been made in the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with 5-year overall survival rates currently approaching almost 90%. In comparison, results reported in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are relatively poor. In adults, results have improved, but are still lagging behind those obtained in children. Possible reasons for this different pattern of results include an increased incidence of unfavorable and a decreased incidence of favorable cytogenetic abnormalities in AYAs compared with children. Furthermore, in AYAs less intensive treatments (especially lower cumulative doses of drugs such as asparaginase, corticosteroids and methotrexate) and longer gaps between courses of chemotherapy are planned compared to those in children. However, although favorable results obtained in AYAs receiving pediatric protocols have been consistently reported in several international collaborative trials, physicians must also be aware of the specific toxicity pattern associated with increased success in AYAs, since an excess of toxicity may compromise overall treatment schedule intensity. Cooperative efforts between pediatric and adult hematologists in designing specific protocols for AYAs are warranted.
Hypotension associated with Advanced Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Mangla Ankit , Dang Geetanjali , Hamad Hussein , Mohajer Roozbeh , Catchatourian Rosalind , Kovarik Paula
Published: November 2014

Hypotension is an extremely rare manifestation of Hodgkin lymphoma. We report the case of a patient who presented with new onset hypotension and was diagnosed with urosepsis and septic shock requiring pressor support for maintaining his blood pressure. computed tomography (CT) scan of abdomen showed liver lesions, which were new on comparison with a CT abdomen done 3 weeks back. Biopsy of the liver lesions and subsequently a bone marrow biopsy showed large atypical Reed-Sternberg cells, positive for CD15 and CD 30 and negative for CD45, CD3 and CD20 on immunohistochemical staining, hence establishing the diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma. The mechanism involved in Hodgkin lymphoma causing hypotension remains anecdotal, but since it is mostly seen in patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma, it is hypothetically related to a complex interaction between cytokines and mediators of vasodilatation. Here we review relevant literature pertaining to presentation and pathogenesis of this elusive and rare association.
Renal hemorrhagic actinomycotic abscess in pregnancy
Authors: Smid Marcela C. , Bhardwaj Neha R. , Di Giovanni Laura M. , Eggener Scott , Della Torre Micaela
Published: November 2014

Actinomyces israelii is a gram-positive, filamentous anaerobic bacteria colonizing the oral and gastrointestinal tracts. Retroperitoneal actinomycotic abscess is uncommon and its rare presentation as a hemorrhagic mass may be confused with malignancy. We present a case of this unusual infection complicating pregnancy. Increased awareness of actinomycotic abscess in the differential diagnosis of renal mass concerning for malignancy is critical to early recognition and treatment of this rare infection and most importantly, avoidance of unnecessary surgical intervention.
A complicated case of an immunocompetent patient with disseminated nocardiosis
Authors: Cooper Chad J. , Said Sarmad , Popp Maryna , Alkhateeb Haider , Rodriguez Carlos , Aguilar Mateo Porres , Alozie Ogechika
Published: November 2014

Nocardia species are aerobic, gram positive filamentous branching bacteria that have the potential to cause localized or disseminated infection. Nocardiosis is a rare disease that usually affects immunocompromised patients and presents as either pulmonary, cutaneous or disseminated nocardiosis. Forty-two year-old hispanic male presented to our care with bilateral lower extremity weakness, frontal headache, subjective fever, nausea, and vomiting. Brain computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple hyperdense lesions with vasogenic edema in the frontal, parietal and left temporal lobes. Chest CT demonstrated bilateral cavitary nodules in the lung and right hilar lymphadenopathy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple bilateral supratentorial and infratentorial rim enhancing lesions involving the subcortical gray-white matter interface with vasogenic edema. Patient was started on empiric therapy for unknown infectious etiology with no response. He eventually expired and autopsy findings revealed a right hilar lung abscess and multiple brain abscesses. Microscopic and culture findings from tissue sample during autopsy revealed nocardia wallacei species with multidrug resistance. The cause of death was stated as systemic nocadiosis (nocardia pneumonitis and encephalitis). The presence of simultaneous lung and brain abscesses is a reliable indication of an underlying Nocardia infection. An increased awareness of the various presentations of nocardiosis and a high index of clinical suspicion can help in a rapid diagnosis and improve survival in an otherwise fatal disease. This case highlights the importance of obtaining a tissue biopsy for definitive diagnosis on the initial presentation when an infectious process is considered in the differential diagnosis and early treatment can be initiated.
Invasive candidiasis due to Candida norvegensis in a liver transplant patient: case report and literature review
Authors: Musso Maria , Giannella Maddalena , Antonini Mario , Bordi Eugenio , Ettorre Giuseppe Maria , Tessitore Loretta , Mariano Andrea , Capone Alessandro
Published: November 2014

Candida norvegensis is an emerging fluconazole-resistant pathogen isolated in most cases from skin and mucous membranes of immunocompromized patients. Documented invasive candidiasis (IC) due to C. norvegensis has been rarely reported, thus the clinical features of patients at risk for this pathogen are poorly defined. We report a liver transplant patient who developed IC due to C. norvegensis and review other cases of C. norvegensis IC published in the literature.
Healthcare-associated pneumonia: a never-ending story
Authors: Russo Alessandro , Falcone Marco , Giuliano Simone , Guastalegname Maurizio , Venditti Mario
Published: November 2014

In recent years, the changes in the healthcare system have shifted a considerable part of patients care from hospitals to the community, and the traditional distinction between community- and hospital-acquired infections has become less clear. [...]
Intra-pleural colistin methanesulfonate therapy for pleural infection caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: a successful case report
Authors: Rana Muhammad Asim , Abd El Rahaman Basheer , Mady Ahmed Fouad , Al Odat Mohammed , Al Harthy Abdurehman , Ramadan Omar El Sayed , Mumtaz Shehzad Ahmad , Omrani Ali S.
Published: November 2014

Infections caused by carbapenem-resistant, Gram-negative bacteria are an increasing clinical challenge, since the antimicrobial treatment options are often limited to colistin methanesulfonate. No data are available regarding the pharmacokinetics of colistin in pleural fluid. We report the case of a 92-year old man with ventilator-associated pneumonia and pleurisy caused by Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli, which were both multidrug-resistant. After an unsuccessful treatment with intravenous colistin methanesulfonate and imipenem-cilastatin, the addition of intra-pleural colistin methanesulfonate to the intravenous treatment led to a prompt clinical, radiological and microbiological resolution. This is the first report of a successful use of intra-pleural colistin in the literature. The intra-pleural colistin therapy should be considered in selected cases of pleurisy caused by multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
Somatostatin receptor 1,2 and 5 activation leads to C6 glioma growth arrest in vitro and in vivo; analysis of the intracellular pathways involved
Authors: Gatti M. , Pattarozzi A. , Würth R. , Angeletti F. , Barbieri F. , Florio T.
Published: November 2014

We report that somatostain receptor (SSTR) 1,2 and 5 activation by selective agonista, cause C6 cell growth arrest through PTPn-dependent dephosphorylation of ERK1/2 in vitro and after xenografting in nude mice. Individual SSTR agonist desplayed different efficacy and potecy showing partial synergism by combined treatment. Since most tumor cells express multiple SSTRs, the activtion of all the subtypes may grant a better control of cancer growth.
Diastolic function in Steinert’s disease
Authors: Fayssoil Abdallah , Nardi Olivier , Annane Djillali , Orlikowski David
Published: November 2014

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (MD) is the most common autosomal dominant muscular dystrophy in adults. Cardiac involvement is mainly characterized by conduction abnormalities and arrhythmias. We sought to assess diastolic function in MD patients. Echocardiography-Doppler was performed in Steinert’s patients and in a control group completed by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Twenty-six patients with Steinert’s disease were included in the study and were compared to a control group. Mean age was similar in the 2 groups (45.1 years ±10.9 in Steinert’s patients vs 42.1 years ±11 in control group P 0.4). 6 /26 patients with Steinert’s disease disclosed a left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction <50%. Mean left atrial (LA) diameter was statistically different between Steinert‘s patients and patients in group control (27.8 mm ±8.5 vs 19.7 mm ±4; P=0.0018). Mean peak E/A mitral ratio was 1.29±0.45 in Steinert’s patients vs 1.36±0.4 in control group (P=0.6). We found an increase of the mitral E deceleration time in Steinert’s patients in comparison with patients in control group (219 ms ±53 vs 176 ms ±29; P=0.013). Mean peak lateral early diastolic velocity Ea was similar in the 2 groups (12.3 cm/s ±3 vs 13.1 cm/s ±3.8; P=0.50). Mean peak septal early diastolic velocity was sim- ilar in the 2 groups (11.2 cm/s ±2 vs 10.4±2; P=0.51). We found an increase of the LA diameter and an increase of the mitral deceleration time in Steinert’s patients that suggest diastolic abnormalities.
Highly expressed genes in human high grade gliomas: immunohistochemical analysis of data from the Human Protein Atlas
Authors: Meyer Michael A.
Published: November 2014

Gene expression within human glioblastomas were analyzed from data on 20,083 genes entered into the on-line Human Protein Atlas. In selecting genes that are strongly expressed within normal human brain tissue, 58 genes were identified from a search of the 20,083 entries that were rated as showing 90% or greater intensity of expression within normal brain tissues. Of these 58, a subset of 48 genes was identified that not only had expression data for human glioblastomas but also for the human glioblastoma cell line U-251. Four of these 48 selected genes were found to be strongly expressed within the cytoplasm when assessed by both histologic sampling of high grade glioma patient cases as well as U-251 glioblastoma cell line immunofluoresence analysis. These four human genes are: AGBL2 (ATP/GTP binding protein-like 2), BLOC1S6 (biogenesis of lysosomal organelles complex-1, subunit 6), MAP1A (microtubule-associated protein 1A) and ZSWIM5 (zinc finger, SWIM-type containing 5, also known as KIAA1511). Further research is advocated to investigate the role of ZSWIM5 and AGBL2 in glioma cell biology.