bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma-ganglioglioma with BRAF V600E mutation: case report
Authors: Cicuendez Marta , Martinez-Saez Elena , Martinez-Ricarte Francisco , Asanza Esteban Cordero , Sahuquillo Juan
Published: March 2016

Combined pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) and ganglioglioma (GG) is an extremely rare tumor, with fewer than 20 cases reported. The authors report a case of combined PXA-GG in an 18-year-old man with a history of seizures. The tumor showed necrosis and the BRAF V600E mutation on histological examination, with no evidence of tumor recurrence 1 year after gross-total resection. The BRAF V600E mutation was present, which suggests that both cell lineages may share a common cellular origin.
Introduction of percutaneous-tunneled transfontanellar external ventricular drainage in the management of hydrocephalus in extremely low-birth-weight infants
Authors: Zucchelli Mino , Lefosse Mariella , Corvaglia Luigi , Martini Silvia , Sandri Fabrizio , Soffritti Silvia , Ancora Gina , Mammoliti Palma , Gargano Giancarlo , Galassi Ercole
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

Hydrocephalus treatment in extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants still represents a challenge for the pediatric neurosurgeon, particularly when the patient weighs far less than 1000 g. In such cases, the benefits in terms of neurological outcome following early treatment do not always outweigh the surgical risks, especially considering the great difference in the surgical risk before patient weight increases. To assess the efficacy and reliability of a percutaneous-tunneled, transfontanellar external ventricular drain (PTTEVD) in ELBW infants, the authors started a new protocol for the early surgical treatment of hydrocephalus.

METHODS

Ten cases of posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) in ELBW infants (5 cases < 700 g, range for all cases 550–1000 g) were treated with a PTTEVD that was implanted at bedside as the first measure in a stepwise approach.

RESULTS

The average duration of the procedure was 7 minutes, and there was no blood loss. The drain remained in place for an average of 24 days (range 8–45 days). In all cases early control of the hydrocephalus was achieved. One patient had a single episode of CSF leakage (due to insufficient CSF removal). In another patient Enterococcus in the CSF sample was detected the day after abdominal surgery with ileostomy (infection resolved with intrathecal vancomycin). One patient died of Streptococcus sepsis, a systemic infection existing prior to drain placement that never resolved. One patient had Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis prior to drain insertion; a PTTEVD was implanted, the infection resolved, and the hydrocephalus was treated in the same way as with a traditional EVD, while the advantages of a quick, minimally invasive, bedside procedure were maintained. Once a patient reached 1 kg in weight, when necessary, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was implanted and the PTTEVD was removed.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of PTTEVD placement in our standard protocol for the management of PHH has proved to be a wise option for small patients.
Vulnerability of white matter to insult during childhood: evidence from patients treated for medulloblastoma
Authors: Moxon-Emre Iska , Bouffet Eric , Taylor Michael D. , Laperriere Normand , Sharpe Michael B. , Laughlin Suzanne , Bartels Ute , Scantlebury Nadia , Law Nicole , Malkin David , Skocic Jovanka , Richard Logan , Mabbott Donald J.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

Craniospinal irradiation damages the white matter in children treated for medulloblastoma, but the treatment-intensity effects are unclear. In a cross-sectional retrospective study, the effects of treatment with the least intensive radiation protocol versus protocols that delivered more radiation to the brain, in addition to the effects of continuous radiation dose, on white matter architecture were evaluated.

METHODS

Diffusion tensor imaging was used to assess fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, radial diffusivity, and axial diffusivity. First, regional white matter analyses and tract-based spatial statistics were conducted in 34 medulloblastoma patients and 38 healthy controls. Patients were stratified according to those treated with 1) the least intensive radiation protocol, specifically reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation plus a boost to the tumor bed only (n = 17), or 2) any other dose and boost combination that delivered more radiation to the brain, which was also termed the “all-other-treatments” group (n = 17), and comprised patients treated with standard-dose craniospinal irradiation plus a posterior fossa boost, standard-dose craniospinal irradiation plus a tumor bed boost, or reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation plus a posterior fossa boost. Second, voxel-wise dose-distribution analyses were conducted on a separate cohort of medulloblastoma patients (n = 15).

RESULTS

The all-other-treatments group, but not the reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation plus tumor bed group, had lower fractional anisotropy and higher radial diffusivity than controls in all brain regions (all p < 0.05). The reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation plus tumor bed boost group had higher fractional anisotropy (p = 0.05) and lower radial diffusivity (p = 0.04) in the temporal region, and higher fractional anisotropy in the frontal region (p = 0.04), than the all-other-treatments group. Linear mixed-effects modeling revealed that the dose and age at diagnosis together 1) better predicted fractional anisotropy in the temporal region than models with either alone (p < 0.005), but 2) did not better predict fractional anisotropy in comparison with dose alone in the occipital region (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Together, the results show that white matter damage has a clear association with increasing radiation dose, and that treatment with reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation plus tumor bed boost appears to preserve white matter in some brain regions.
Combined surgical and endovascular treatment of complex high-flow conus medullaris arteriovenous fistula associated with Parkes Weber syndrome: case report
Authors: Bagherpour Arya N. , Rodriguez Gustavo J. , Moorthy Chetan , Trier Todd T. , Maud Alberto
Published: March 2016

Parkes Weber syndrome (PWS) is a congenital overgrowth disorder characterized by unilateral limb and axial hypertrophy, capillary malformations of the skin, and high-flow arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs). Spinal AVFs in the setting of PWS are challenging vascular lesions that often contain multiple arteriovenous (AV) shunts. The present case report highlights an adolescent girl with PWS who presented with a ruptured complex high-flow conus medullaris AVF. She was successfully treated with endovascular embolization and microsurgery. At the 2-year follow-up, the patient remained free of neurological symptoms and had no recurrence of the vascular malformation.
Outcomes observed during a 1-year clinical and radiographic follow-up of patients treated for 1- or 2-level cervical degenerative disease using a biodegradable anterior cervical plate
Authors: Chen Mengcun , Yang Shuhua , Yang Cao , Xu Weihua , Ye Shunan , Wang Jing , Feng Yong , Yang Wen , Liu Xianzhe
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to present an initial surgical experience in the management of 1- or 2-level degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine using biodegradable anterior cervical plates (bACPs) in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). The authors also aimed to provide insight into this critical and controversial clinical issue by clarifying outcomes for patients receiving bACPs and by comparing their outcomes with those achieved using a traditional metallic anterior cervical plate (mACP) implant.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted for 2 series of patients who had undergone ACDF using either bACP (31 patients, 38 segments) or mACP (47 patients, 57 segments) instrumentation. The patients were followed up for a mean 13.5 ± 0.9 months (range 12–18 months) in the bACP group and 14.8 ± 1.5 months (range 14–22 months) in the mACP group. Clinical outcomes were determined according to scores on the visual analog scale (VAS), the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scoring system, and Odom's criteria. Radiological images were used to assess fusion rates, intervertebral height, Cobb's angle, and the width of prevertebral soft tissue.

RESULTS

Both VAS and mJOA scores were significantly improved at each follow-up in both groups. Excellent or good results according to Odom's criteria were achieved in 93.5% (29/31) of patients in the bACP group and 93.6% (44/47) of patients in the mACP group. At 6 months postoperatively, the fusion rate was 94.7% (36/38) in the bACP group and 96.5% (55/57) in the mACP group, but subsidence of the intervertebral space at the surgical level was more evident in the bACP group. Angulation, as measured by Cobb's angle, demonstrated obvious healing in both groups, while better maintenance was observed in the mACP group. The local inflammatory reaction was uneventful during follow-up. Dysphonia and dysphagia were observed in both groups during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The relatively comparable early clinical and radiographic outcomes and the overall acceptable complication rates for bACP and mACP use suggest that bACPs could be used as alternative instruments in ACDF. Mild graft resorption was noted without evidence of symptoms. However, the prospective efficacy of biodegradable instrumentation can only be elucidated with longer-term observation.
Synthesis of New Quinolinones from 3-Nitropyranoquinolinones
Authors: Morsy Jehan M. , Hassanin Hany M. , Ismail Mostafa M. , Abd-Alrazk Marwa M.A.
Published: March 2016

Alkaline hydrolysis of 3-nitropyranoquinolinones (6-alkyl-4-hydroxy-3-nitro-2 H-pyrano[3,2- c]quinoline-2,5(6 H)-diones) for different reaction times gave five products which were formed by the progressive degradation of the nitropyrano ring. Varying amounts of 3-nitroacetylquinolinones, quinolinones with side-chains of β- and α-ketoacids, quinolinone-3-carboxylic acids and 4-hydroxyquinolinones were isolated. With the aim of preparing new biologically active quinolone derivatives, the products of reaction of the 3-nitropyranoquinolinones with side-chains of β- and α-ketoacids with some nitrogen and carbon nucleophiles were also studied, some giving rise to annulated products.
Effect of intrauterine growth pattern on serum visfatin concentrations in full-term infants at birth and at 6 months of life
Authors: El Shemi M.S. , Mohamed M.H. , AbdelRahman A.O. , Abdel Al H. , Ramadan N.M.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE:

Visfatin is a hormone discovered in fat cells and is directly related to diabetes. We aimed to investigate the relationship between intrauterine growth pattern and serum visfatin concentrations in full-term infants at birth and at 6 months of life.

METHODS:

Cord blood visfatin concentrations were assessed in 90 full-term neonates enrolled into; Group I: 30 appropriate for gestational age (AGA) neonates to healthy mothers, Group II: 30 intra-uterine growth restricted (IUGR) neonates, 19 were born to mothers with pre-eclampsia, Group III: 30 large for gestational age (LGA) neonates, 16 were infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs). Neonates were followed up at six months of age for visfatin concentrations.

RESULTS:

Cord blood visfatin concentrations were increased in IUGR compared to AGA group ( p = 0.002). Cord blood visfatin concentrations were increased in LGA compared to AGA and IUGR groups ( P <  0.001, P <  0.001). Cord blood visfatin concentrations were positively correlated to birth weight in AGA, LGA groups ( r = 0.39, p = 0.045, r = 0.449, p = 0.013 respectively). Visfatin concentrations in neonates born to mothers with pre-eclampsia and IDMs were higher than in those born to mothers without pre-eclampsia and to non-diabetic mothers ( p = 0.040, p = 0.002 respectively). At six months, serum visfatin concentrations decreased compared to cord blood visfatin concentrations in IUGR and LGA groups ( p <  0.001). Levels in LGA were still higher than IUGR ( p = 0.004). Serum visfatin concentrations were positively correlated to cord visfatin in IUGR neonates (r = 0.497, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION:

Cord blood visfatin concentrations were increased in LGA and IUGR neonates. At six months, serum visfatin concentrations decreased compared to cord blood visfatin concentrations in LGA and IUGR groups, still higher in the former than the latter.
Incidence and risk factors of urinary tract infection in very low birth weight infants
Authors: Ruangkit C. , Satpute Ankita , Vogt B.A. , Hoyen C. , Viswanathan S.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVES:

To describe the incidence and associated risk factors of urinary tract infection (UTI) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants and to determine the value of diagnostic imaging studies after the first UTI episode before discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

METHODS:

VLBW infants born during 2003–2012 were reviewed for UTI. In a nested case-control study, potential risk factors of UTI were compared between infants with UTI (cases) versus birth weight and gestational age matched controls. Renal ultrasonography (USG) and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) results were reviewed in cases.

RESULTS:

During the study period, 54.7% of urine culture specimens were collected by sterile methods. 3% (45/1,495) of VLBW infants met the study definition for UTI. UTI was diagnosed at mean postnatal age of 33.1±22.9 days. There was no significant difference in gender, ethnicity, antenatal steroid exposure, blood culture positive sepsis, ionotropic support, respiratory support and enteral feeding practices between cases and controls. Cases had a significantly higher cholestasis compared to controls (22% vs. 9% ; p = 0.03). However, cholestasis was not a significant predictor of UTI in the adjusted analysis [adjusted OR 2.38 (95% CI 0.84 to 6.80), p = 0.11]. Cases had higher central line days, parenteral nutrition days, total mechanical ventilation days, chronic lung disease, and length of stay compared to controls. Renal USG was abnormal in 37% and VCUG was abnormal in 17% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of UTI in contemporary VLBW infants is relatively low compared to previous decades. Since no significant UTI predictors could be identified, urine culture by sterile methods is the only reliable way to exclude UTI. The majority of infants with UTI have normal renal anatomy. UTI in VLBW infants is associated with increased morbidity and length of stay.
Preeclampsia: Long-term effects on pediatric disability
Authors: Nicolás C. , Benítez P. Rodríguez , Riaño M.O. Arroyo , Canencia L. Matesanz , Mercurio C. , Fernández M. Silva , Luna M. Sánchez , Jorge A. Tejedor
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Preeclampsia affects up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide and is one of the main causes of fetal morbidity and mortality. Although it has been linked to developmental delay, its long-term effects on neurologic development in children have yet to be sufficiently quantified.

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate whether preeclampsia’s severity and its obstetric management correlate to the degree of disability in these infants.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

This is an observational and descriptive study performed on a population of 96 women who were diagnosed with preeclampsia at Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón between 2007 and 2014, and their 111 children. To evaluate the mother, we gathered data pertaining to her medical history, renal function markers, and medical management of the preeclampsia. To assess the children, we collected fetal growth measurements, acute fetal distress markers and main diagnoses at birth. We used the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory in its computerized adaptive test version (PEDI-CAT) to study performance in the relevant areas, and the TNO-AZL Preschool children Quality of Life (TAPQOL) to estimate health-related quality of life.

RESULTS:

PEDI-CAT percentiles were consistently lower in the social/cognitive domain than in other areas. Lower social/cognitive percentiles were associated to both lower maternal IgG levels and presence of necrotizing enterocolitis during the neonatal period.

CONCLUSIONS:

A connection between preeclampsia and poor social/cognitive outcomes exists that warrants further research.
Antenatal corticosteroids in the late preterm period: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Ramadan M.K. , Hussein G. , Saheb W. , Rajab M. , Mirza F.G.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE:

The study objective was to examine the effect of antenatal corticosteroids on the incidence of short-term neonatal morbidities in singletons born during the late preterm period.

STUDY DESIGN:

This was a prospective cohort study of singleton gestations at risk of imminent delivery between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks. Short-term neonatal morbidities were compared between the corticosteroid exposed and non-exposed groups. The rates of Neonatal Morbidity Composite and Any Adverse Neonatal Morbidity were then compared between the two groups.

RESULTS:

During the two-year study period, a total of 295 subjects were included. Of those, 74 were exposed to antenatal corticosteroids, while 221 cases constituted the non-exposed group. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of Any Adverse Neonatal Morbidity (47.3% vs. 40.7% , p = 0.32) or the rate of Neonatal Morbidity Composite (34.4% vs. 37.8% , p = 0.59) between the two groups. Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference in the rates of neonatal intensive care unit admission, respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnea of the newborn, hypothermia, and need for phototherapy.

CONCLUSION:

Administration of antenatal corticosteroids to parturients at risk of imminent delivery during the late preterm period does not appear to reduce short-term neonatal morbidities.
In vitro antimicrobial screening of Lycoperdon lividium and determination of the ethanol extract composition by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Canli Kerem , Altuner Ergin Murat , Akata Ilgaz , Turkmen Yavuz , Uzek Ugur
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Lycoperdon lividium against 17 bacterial and 1 fungal strains and analyse the composition of ethanol extracts by GC/MS. The in vitro antimicrobial activity of L. lividium extracts having 15 mg/mL concentration was assessed against a wide range of strains by disk diffusion method. The ethanol extract of L. lividium had antimicrobial activity against several microorganism tested, but it was active especially against S. carnosus. The results obtained herein indicate that L. lividium contains several active metabolites.

Video clip

Disk diffusion test: 7 min 11 sec
Outcome of scalp reconstruction in a teaching hospital
Authors: Islam Md Tariqul , Abdullah SK Nishat , Newaz Md Mehedi , Rahman Mizanur , Rahman Md Ashikur
Published: March 2016

An area of loss of scalp could be covered by various methods including local flap, distant flaps, skin graft, free flap surgery or tissue expansion. Each method has some disadvantages, such as postoperative alopecia or donor site morbidities. The study was conducted in the Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Khulna Medical College Hospital from July 2011 to June 2015. Scalp reconstruction was performed on 16 patients who sustained scalp loss from RTA, surgery for cancer, burn injuries and machinery injury. The size of the wound ranged from 6 cm2 to 320 cm2. Transposition flap, rotation flap, removal of osteomyelitic bone and skin grafts were done. Among 16 cases, 3 cases (18.75%) were skin grafted, 6 cases (37.5%) were reconstructed with transposition flaps, 5 cases (31.25%) were reconstructed with rotation flap and 2 cases (12.5%) were reconstructed with skin graft after removal of osteomyelitic outer table of skull bone. The postoperative complications seen in this series includes partial graft loss in 2 cases (skin graft), marginal necrosis in 1 case (transposition flap) and alopecia in 11 cases (in skin graft and transposition flap). There was no alopecia in reconstruction with rotation flap. Rotation flaps brings the best outcome in terms of durability and aesthetic acceptability where it is applicable in comparison to other procedure.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 3-6
Outcome of management of congenital idiopathic clubfoot by ponseti technique
Authors: Newaz Md Mehedi , Sikder Avijit Kumar
Published: March 2016

The congenital idiopathic clubfoot (CICF) is one of the most common serious birth defect of human bones and joints. Deformity leads to downward spiral of disability, dependency and demoralization. The Ponseti technique has become the standard for treatment of congenital clubfoot in the last 2 decades and a triumph in the very complex field of management of congenital idiopathic clubfoot. In this clinical study, our main aim is to evaluate necessity of the Ponseti treatment protocol in a timely, safe, effective & sustainable manner. In this clinical trial, 621 patients (with a total 1033 feet) of 00 (from birth) to 36 months of age were selected as the study population since October, 2009. Most of them were male children (71.3%) and majority were in >03-06 months of age group. In most of the patients (about 92%), only 05 serial plasters were found to be effective & quite sufficient, whereas, only in 5.3% patients, 06-07 plasters were required followed by 1.7% patients requiring more than 07 plasters. In this study, 06 resistant cases were found where correction was relatively slower than others, but no case of treatment failure was identified. The Mid foot score (MS) found to fall greatly in plaster phases and at the end of 5h plaster it was significantly lower (0.2), whereas, in case of the Hind foot score (HS), it declined rapidly following the percutaneous tenotomy (0.2) Then the total score (TS) trends to fall to near 0, at the end of 3rd post SFAB (Steenbeek Foot Abduction Brace) routine follow up and is maintained thereafter. Approximately 74. 1% patients ultimately required tenotomy of Tendo Achilles as a part of management and the rate was highest (83.6%) in >30-36 months age group, followed by 80.0% in >24-30 months age group. The relapse rate was estimated within post SFAB routine follow up, 1.9% was within 1st 6 months & 2-1% within 6 12 months after removal of bracing. All steps in all patients were done as day case procedures. No cases of posterior-medial release was required, as like the conventional or the original Ponseti treatment protocol, hence found cost effective to the patients with excellent patient's compliance (P<0.01)Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 11-15
Clinical profile of amoebic liver abscess patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Paik Bishnupada , Sarkar Swapan Kumar , Chowdhury Poritosh Kumar , Ahmed Saad
Published: March 2016

Amoebic liver abscess is an important cause of space occupying lesions of the liver, especially in tropical and sub tropical regions. It is the most frequent complication of invasive amebiasis. It may be found in all age groups but relatively rare in children. The signs and symptoms vary according to the severity of illness. The present study was done to evaluate the clinical profile of patients with amoebic liver abscess for age, gender, clinical features, site of abscess, number of abscess, treatment modality by intravenous metronidazole along with percutaneous needle aspiration and prognosis. A prospective study of 86 admitted patients of amoebic liver abscess were included in this study which was carried out in the medicine department of Khulna Medical College Hospital over a period of 2 years from July 2010 to June 2012. Mean age of patients was 45 years. Male female ratio was 7:1. The mean duration of fever was 17.9 days and the mean duration of pain was 14.1 days. The duration of fever for more than 2 weeks was seen in 38 cases. Regarding clinical features, the major symptoms of fever, pain abdomen and dysentery were seen in 81, 78 and 10 cases respectively. The major signs as determined by clinical and radio imaging studies were hepatomegaly in 76, right lobe abscess in 60, left lobe abscess in 12, multiple abscesses in both lobes in 18, ascites in 5 and right sided pleural effusion in 12 cases respectively. All the cases underwent percutaneous needle aspiration. 5 cases died out of 86 patients.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 20-23
Volvulus of the vermiform appendix
Authors: Saha Amar Kumar , Biswas Sunil Kumar , Arefin Saiful
Published: March 2016

Appendicitis is an extremely common presentation to general surgery in both adult and paediatric practice. Volvulus or torsion of the vermiform appendix, which is currently indistinguishable clinically from appendicitis, is an uncommon surgical emergency in children. Only a few cases are reported in the literature concerning this subject. We describe an 8 year old child who presented with right lower quadrant abdominal pain and was clinically diagnosed as perforated appendix. Laparotomy revealed a volvulus of the appendix and an emergency appendicectomy was performed.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 32-33
A giant femoral pseudo aneurysm secondary to arteriovenous fistula following stab injury
Authors: Biswas Proshanta Kumar , Mallick Milton , Biswas Sunil Kumar
Published: March 2016

Pseudo aneurysm wall is not formed by vascular tissue but develops from organized thrombus, associated fibrosis and surrounding tissue. Post stab injury pseudo aneurysm associated with arteriovenous fistula of lower limb is exceptional. Here one such case is reported who was operated 4 months after the incidence of stab injury in his way back home at an incidence of robbery. The patient was very poor and did not have the ability to seek higher medical care. He was moving everywhere with a big pulsatile mass on supero medial part of his left thigh. Lastly surgical intervention was done and the patient got well.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 34-36
Star fruit intoxication leading to acute kidney injury
Authors: Azim Md Arshad Ul , Salam Abdus
Published: March 2016

There are few case reports regarding star fruit's nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity in chronic kidney disease patients. Recently cases are found in people with normal renal function Star fruit nephrotoxicity is believed to be due to its high oxalate content which causes acute obstructive oxalate nephropathy. A neurotoxin (caramboxin) present in the fruit is responsible for neurotoxic features. Here we present a young male who developed acute kidney injury following star fruit ingestion in empty stomach. After admission, patient was treated conservatively and recovered completely.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 37-39
Abstract From Current Literature 48(1-2)
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2016

Abstract not availableBang Med J (Khulna) 2015; 48 : 40-43
A NEW ANALYSIS OF THE TWO CLASSICAL ZZ CETI WHITE DWARFS GD 165 AND ROSS 548. II. SEISMIC MODELING
Authors: Giammichele N. , Fontaine G. , Brassard P. , Charpinet S.
Published: March 2016

We present the second of a two-part seismic analysis of the bright, hot ZZ Ceti stars GD 165 and Ross 548. In this second part, we report the results of detailed searches in parameter space for identifying an optimal model for each star that can account well for the observed periods, while being consistent with the spectroscopic constraints derived in our first paper. We find optimal models for each target that reproduce the six observed periods well within ∼0.3% on the average. We also find that there is a sensitivity on the core composition for Ross 548, while there is practically none for GD 165. Our optimal model of Ross 548, with its thin envelope, indeed shows weight functions for some confined modes that extend relatively deep into the interior, thus explaining the sensitivity of the period spectrum on the core composition in that star. In contrast, our optimal seismic model of its spectroscopic sibling, GD 165 with its thick envelope, does not trap/confine modes very efficiently, and we find weight functions for all six observed modes that do not extend into the deep core, hence accounting for the lack of sensitivity in that case. Furthermore, we exploit after the fact the observed multiplet structure that we ascribe to rotation. We are able to map the rotation profile in GD 165 (Ross 548) over the outermost ∼20% (∼5%) of its radius, and we find that the profile is consistent with solid-body rotation.
FARGO3D: A NEW GPU-ORIENTED MHD CODE
Authors: Benítez-Llambay Pablo , Masset Frédéric S.
Published: March 2016

We present the FARGO3D code, recently publicly released. It is a magnetohydrodynamics code developed with special emphasis on the physics of protoplanetary disks and planet–disk interactions, and parallelized with MPI. The hydrodynamics algorithms are based on finite-difference upwind, dimensionally split methods. The magnetohydrodynamics algorithms consist of the constrained transport method to preserve the divergence-free property of the magnetic field to machine accuracy, coupled to a method of characteristics for the evaluation of electromotive forces and Lorentz forces. Orbital advection is implemented, and an N-body solver is included to simulate planets or stars interacting with the gas. We present our implementation in detail and present a number of widely known tests for comparison purposes. One strength of FARGO3D is that it can run on either graphical processing units (GPUs) or central processing units (CPUs), achieving large speed-up with respect to CPU cores. We describe our implementation choices, which allow a user with no prior knowledge of GPU programming to develop new routines for CPUs, and have them translated automatically for GPUs.
CENTRAL ENGINE MEMORY OF GAMMA-RAY BURSTS AND SOFT GAMMA-RAY REPEATERS
Authors: Zhang Bin-Bin , Zhang Bing , Castro-Tirado Alberto J.
Published: March 2016

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are bursts of γ-rays generated from relativistic jets launched from catastrophic events such as massive star core collapse or binary compact star coalescence. Previous studies suggested that GRB emission is erratic, with no noticeable memory in the central engine. Here we report a discovery that similar light curve patterns exist within individual bursts for at least some GRBs. Applying the Dynamic Time Warping method, we show that similarity of light curve patterns between pulses of a single burst or between the light curves of a GRB and its X-ray flare can be identified. This suggests that the central engine of at least some GRBs carries “memory” of its activities. We also show that the same technique can identify memory-like emission episodes in the flaring emission in soft gamma-ray repeaters (SGRs), which are believed to be Galactic, highly magnetized neutron stars named magnetars. Such a phenomenon challenges the standard black hole central engine models for GRBs, and suggest a common physical mechanism behind GRBs and SGRs, which points toward a magnetar central engine of GRBs.
À côté de la place Vendôme, entre façon et création
Authors: Mathon Aude
Published: March 2016

Pour ne pas trop dépendre des grands du luxe, la maison Mathon a lancé sa propre marque. Cela exige un savoir-faire pointu et la capacité d’inscrire sa création dans le calendrier rythmé des collections pour les marchés japonais, coréen, chinois et émirati.
Management de l’innovation et globalisation
Authors: Charue-Duboc Florence , Midler Christophe
Published: March 2016

Conjuguer innovation et globalisation n’est pas simple pour une firme. Comment repérer et développer une innovation aux sources dispersées, puis la déployer sur les différents marchés ? Les aventures d’étudiants sur des cas réels éclairent ces processus.
L’application de la responsabilité de protéger en Libye : retour à la case départ ?
Authors: Ben Lamma Mohammed Faraj
Published: March 2016

Depuis la fin de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, la doctrine de l’intervention humanitaire a fait l’objet d’un débat permanent au sein des Nations unies, des États, de la communauté des chercheurs et de la société civile. Au cœur de cette controverse, la tension entre deux principes fondamentaux du droit international : d’une part, l’interdiction de l’usage de la force ; d’autre part, l’obligation de respecter et de protéger les droits de l’homme. Dix ans après la publication par la CIISE d’un important rapport sur la responsabilité de protéger (R2P) et six ans après son entrée dans le champ juridique international, la R2P a connu une application concrète : à l’occasion de la crise libyenne, la résolution 1973 du Conseil de sécurité du 17 mars 2011 y fait expressément référence. Cet article vise à répondre à la question suivante : l’intervention militaire de l’ONU conduite par l’OTAN en Libye représente-t-elle un progrès ou un recul pour la responsabilité de protéger ?
L’euro contre l’Europe ?
Authors: Bourgeot Rémi
Published: March 2016

Face à l’absence d’amélioration substantielle de la situation économique au sein d’une zone euro marquée par le chômage de masse, les responsables politiques semblent désemparés et s’en remettent de plus en plus à la Banque centrale européenne (BCE) pour assurer la préservation du système économique. Les débats se focalisent sur des questions institutionnelles, autour de la notion de « véritable union économique et monétaire », qui, bien qu’ayant une certaine légitimité, sont illusoires pour des raisons liées à l’équilibre politico-économique au sein de la zone euro, en particulier entre la France et l’Allemagne. Au-delà de la question de l’euro en tant que telle, l’économisme qui a conduit à la création de la monnaie unique apparaît comme le mode d’avènement d’un système administratif paradoxalement coupé des réalités économiques.
Réinterroger et reformuler le rapport aux personnes
Authors: Jaeger Marcel
Published: March 2016

Parmi les questions traitées au cours des États généraux du travail social, celle des « usagers » a occupé une place centrale. Le mot lui-même a été très discuté. Mais au-delà des problèmes de vocabulaire, la refondation des rapports entre les professionnels de l’action sociale et les personnes accompagnées a été interrogée sous l’angle de la reconnaissance de leur citoyenneté. En effet, le respect des droits, à lui seul, ne suffit pas pour garantir une réelle solidarité et un travail social de qualité. Les débats auxquels cette thématique a donné lieu représentent un moment important pour l’évolution des pratiques d’accompagnement.
Le travail social au défi du développement social
Authors: Avenel Cyprien
Published: March 2016

La notion de développement social est portée par la volonté de promouvoir la mise en œuvre de politiques émancipatrices, participatives. Dans le cadre de la décentralisation, elle traduit la volonté de s’appuyer sur l’atout de la proximité et incarne l’ambition d’une approche plus locale et partenariale des politiques publiques, afin de dépasser les approches verticales et sectorielles. Le développement social est une stratégie territoriale qui consiste à agir sur l’environnement dans tous ses aspects, à promouvoir le pouvoir d’agir individuel et collectif. En matière de gouvernance, il appartient aux institutions en responsabilité des politiques publiques de formaliser la coopération territoriale, le pilotage politique et institutionnel dans une conception de l’intervention, ascendante, transversale, qui se traduit par la coopération de tous les acteurs autour d’un projet social de territoire. Au niveau technique, le travail social doit être orienté vers des approches globales, des pratiques plus collectives. Les egts , à travers les assises interrégionales, ont été l’occasion de mettre en avant des « pratiques inspirantes », des initiatives et des projets collectifs dans les territoires. Dès lors, il s’agit d’étendre ces pratiques et pour cela de renforcer la formation des travailleurs sociaux à l’intervention collective, de favoriser une culture de la transversalité, le décloisonnement des secteurs d’activités comme des métiers.
La coordination institutionnelle entre les acteurs
Authors: Audouard Nathalie
Published: March 2016

Cet article se propose d’analyser ce que la démarche des egts a produit pour les acteurs d’un département, dans un contexte institutionnel complexe. Notamment le processus engagé a été l’occasion de réaliser un véritable état des lieux territorial des logiques d’acteurs et des enjeux locaux. Il a permis de mettre en synergie des usagers, des bénévoles, des professionnels du travail social et de l’intervention sociale, mais aussi des dirigeants de structures publiques et privées gestionnaires ou opérateurs des politiques publiques de l’action sociale. Cette démarche des egts a démontré que le travail social et l’intervention sociale ne peuvent penser leur structuration de façon isolée. Le cloisonnement des niveaux de pilotage, de décision et d’intervention doit faire l’objet d’une réflexion de fond et doit être pensé collectivement. Ce travail d’envergure qui a abouti à un plan d’action national a redonné du sens aux pratiques et dégagé ainsi des perspectives opérationnelles.
Influence of GABA and GABA-producing Lactobacillus brevis DPC 6108 on the development of diabetes in a streptozotocin rat model
Authors: Marques T.M. , Patterson E. , Wall R. , O’Sullivan O. , Fitzgerald G.F. , Cotter P.D. , Dinan T.G. , Cryan J.F. , Ross R.P. , Stanton C.
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate if dietary administration of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-producing Lactobacillus brevis DPC 6108 and pure GABA exert protective effects against the development of diabetes in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Sprague Dawley rats. In a first experiment, healthy rats were divided in 3 groups (n=10/group) receiving placebo, 2.6 mg/kg body weight (bw) pure GABA or L. brevis DPC 6108 (~109microorganisms). In a second experiment, rats (n=15/group) were randomised to five groups and four of these received an injection of STZ to induce type 1 diabetes. Diabetic and non-diabetic controls received placebo [4% (w/v) yeast extract in dH2O], while the other three diabetic groups received one of the following dietary supplements: 2.6 mg/kg bw GABA (low GABA), 200 mg/kg bw GABA (high GABA) or ~109
L. brevis DPC 6108. L. brevis DPC 6108 supplementation was associated with increased serum insulin levels (P<0.05), but did not alter other metabolic markers in healthy rats. Diabetes induced by STZ injection decreased body weight (P<0.05), increased intestinal length (P<0.05) and stimulated water and food intake. Insulin was decreased (P<0.05), whereas glucose was increased (P<0.001) in all diabetic groups, compared with non-diabetic controls. A decrease (P<0.01) in glucose levels was observed in diabetic rats receiving L. brevis DPC 6108, compared with diabetic-controls. Both the composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota were affected by diabetes. Microbial diversity in diabetic rats supplemented with low GABA was not reduced (P>0.05), compared with non-diabetic controls while all other diabetic groups displayed reduced diversity (P<0.05). L. brevis DPC 6108 attenuated hyperglycaemia induced by diabetes but additional studies are needed to understand the mechanisms involved in this reduction.
The effect of probiotics on CD4 counts among people living with HIV: a systematic review
Authors: Miller H. , Ferris R. , Phelps B.R.
Published: March 2016

Probiotics are defined by the WHO as ‘live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host’. Ongoing research has shown probiotics provide benefits to humans, including protection and restoration of the gastrointestinal and other mucosal tracts. As human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activates gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), several studies have investigated the effect of probiotics on CD4 cell count and related outcomes among those living with HIV. These studies are summarised here. Manuscripts were identified using the search terms ‘probiotics’, ‘synbiotics’, ‘HIV’, and ‘CD4’, and were reviewed for relevance and inclusion of CD4 count as an immunologic endpoint. Bibliographies of relevant manuscripts were also reviewed for additional studies matching inclusion and exclusion criteria. The search yielded 91 results; 13 included relevant outcomes. Seven of these studies produced beneficial CD4 outcomes, while the remaining 6 reported on insignificant beneficial or negative CD4 outcomes. The studies summarised here collectively suggest that daily consumption of probiotics over a prolonged period of time may improve CD4 count in people living with HIV.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG increases Toll-like receptor 3 gene expression in murine small intestine ex vivo and in vivo
Authors: Aoki-Yoshida A. , Saito S. , Fukiya S. , Aoki R. , Takayama Y. , Suzuki C. , Sonoyama K.
Published: March 2016

Administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) has been reported to be therapeutically effective against acute secretory diarrhoea resulting from the structural and functional intestinal mucosal lesions induced by rotavirus infection; however, the underlying mechanisms remain to be completely elucidated. Because Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) plays a key role in the innate immune responses following the recognition of rotavirus, the present study examined whether LGG influences TLR3 gene expression in murine small intestine ex vivo and in vivo. We employed cultured intestinal organoids derived from small intestinal crypts as an ex vivo tissue model. LGG supplementation increased TLR3 mRNA levels in the intestinal organoids, as estimated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Likewise, single and 7-day consecutive daily administrations of LGG increased TLR3 mRNA levels in the small intestine of C57BL/6N mice. The mRNA levels of other TLRs were not substantially altered both ex vivo and in vivo. In addition, LGG supplementation increased the mRNA levels of an antiviral type 1 interferon, interferon-α (IFN-α), and a neutrophil chemokine, CXCL1, upon stimulation with a synthetic TLR3 ligand, poly(I:C) in the intestinal organoids. LGG administration did not alter IFN-α and CXCL1 mRNA levels in the small intestine in vivo. Supplementation of other bacterial strains, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus paracasei, failed to increase TLR3 and poly(I:C)-stimulated CXCL1 mRNA levels ex vivo. We propose that upregulation of TLR3 gene expression may play a pivotal role in the therapeutic efficacy of LGG against rotavirus-associated diarrhoea. In addition, we demonstrated that intestinal organoids may be a promising ex vivo tissue model for investigating host-pathogen interactions and the antiviral action of probiotics in the intestinal epithelium.
A Case of a Very Elongated Styloid Process 8 cm in Length with Frequent Throat Pain for 10 Years
Authors: Kusunoki Takeshi , Homma Hirotomo , Kidokoro Yoshinobu , Yanai Aya , Fujimaki Mitsuhisa , Ikeda Katsuhisa
Published: March 2016

We experienced a case of an elongated styloid process that was 8 cm in length. The patient was a 68-year-old Japanese man with frequent episodes of left-sided throat pain for 10 years. The elongated styloid process could be diagnosed by 3D-computed tomography (left and right length: 7.8 cm and 8.0 cm, respectively) and successfully treated with surgery, since the anatomic relationships could be fully visualized. Surgical methods for shortening an elongated styloid process involve an intraoral or external approach. The external approach to the styloid process involves a trans-cervical approach to the parapharyngeal space, which enables wider visualization in the operative field than an intraoral approach. In the present case, the styloid process reached the parapharyngal space. Therefore, we selected the external approach and shortened only the left-sided styloid process (the same side as the throat pain). The chief complaint disappeared immediately after the operation.
Patologia sistemica da virus dell'epatite C: la crioglobulinemia mista e altre manifestazioni extraepatiche
Authors: Visconti M. , Campanini M. , Fontanella A. , Nardi R. , Uomo G.
Published: March 2016

La malattia o sindrome da virus dell’epatite C     1
M. Visconti, R. Nardi

Il virus C     5
V. Iovinella, G. Iovinella

Crioglobuline, crioglobulinemie e sindromi crioglobulinemiche     10
M. Visconti, A. Salvio

Patogenesi     14
A. Ilardi

La vasculite cutanea     19
G. Monti, P. Novati, L. Castelnovo, F. Saccardo

Le neuropatie periferiche     23
R. Boni

La sindrome sicca     29
G. Italiano

Il fenomeno di Raynaud     33
F. Gallucci, A. Parisi, R. Buono

La nefropatia crioglobulinemica     40
F. Salvati

I linfomi     46
M. Laccetti

La patologia articolare     52
T. d’Errico, M. Varriale, C. Ambrosca, S. Tassinario

Sindrome da iperviscosità     56
A. Fontanella, L. Fontanella

Diagnosi     60
G. Uomo, F. Gallucci

Terapia antivirale     65
P.G. Rabitti, F. Lampasi

Diabete mellito     74
A. Maffettone, M. Rinaldi

Malattie cardiovascolari     80
R. Nardi, D. Borioni

Malattie dermatologiche     86
D. Galasso, D. D’Amico

Malattie neurologiche e psichiatriche     91
M. Imparato

Correlazioni tra patologia epatica e patologia tiroidea.
Malattie tiroidee in corso di infezione da virus C     96
M. Grandi, C. Sacchetti, S. Pederzoli

Neoplasie extraepatiche     101
S. Fiorino, A. Domanico, E. Accogli, D. Borioni, P. Leandri

Sarcoidosi e malattie polmonari     109
A. Zuccoli, N. Corcione, V. Nuzzo
Validation of the Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast Instrument for Detection of Listeria monocytogenes with the SureTect Listeria monocytogenes PCR Assay
Authors: Cloke Jonathan , Arizanova Julia , Crabtree David , Simpson Helen , Evans Katharine , Vaahtoranta Laura , Palomäki Jukka-Pekka , Artimo Paulus , Huang Feng , Liikanen Maria , Koskela Suvi
Published: March 2016

In 2013, the Thermo Scientific™ SureTect™ Listeria monocytogenes Real-Time PCR Assay was certified by the AOAC Research Institute (RI) Performance Tested MethodsSM program as a rapid method for the detection of L. monocytogenes from a wide range of food matrixes and surface samples. This report details the method modification studies undertaken to extend the analysis of this PCR assay to the Applied Biosystems™ 7500 Fast PCR Instrument and Applied Biosystems RapidFinder™ Express 2.0 software allowing the use of the SureTect assay on a 96 well format PCR cycler in addition to the current workflow, which uses the 24 well Thermo Scientific PikoReal™ PCR Instrument and Thermo Scientific SureTect software. Because this study was deemed by AOAC-RI to be a level 2 method modification study, a representative range of food matrixes covering raw ground turkey, 2% fat pasteurized milk, and bagged lettuce as well as stainless steel surface samples were analyzed with the Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast PCR Instrument and RapidFinder Express 2.0 software. All testing was conducted in comparison to the reference method detailed in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 6579:2002. No significant difference by probability of detection statistical analysis was found between the SureTect Listeria monocytogenes PCR Assay or the ISO reference method methods for any of the matrixes analyzed during the study.
Ecuadorian Cinnabar and the Prehispanic Trade in Vermilion Pigment: Viable Hypothesis or Red Herring?
Authors: Burger Richard L. , Lane Kris E. , Cooke Colin A.
Published: March 2016

Cinnabar ore is the source of a bright red pigment (mercury [II] sulfide, HGS), a substance that was highly valued in the Central Andes during prehispanic times. It is traditionally believed to come from Huancavelica in south-central Peru, although some scholars have argued that a prehispanic cinnabar source existed at Azogues near Cuenca in southern Ecuador. It has also been suggested that the cinnabar recovered at archaeological sites in northern Peru such as Baton Grande may have come from this putative Ecuadorian source. In this article, the historical and archaeological evidence supporting this position is evaluated and found to be insufficient to sustain the Ecuadorian Cinnabar Hypothesis. Moreover, recent mercury isotope analysis of archaeological samples from northern Peru supports the earlier hypothesis that the source of the bright red pigment, sometimes referred to as vermilion, was cinnabar ore mined in Huancavelica. This source is located over 850 km to the south of archaeological sites such as Batdn Grande, Chongoyape, and Pacopampa.