bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giardia duodenalis Arginine Deiminase Modulates the Phenotype and Cytokine Secretion of Human Dendritic Cells by Depletion of Arginine and Formation of Ammonia
Authors: Banik Stefanie , Renner Viveros Pablo , Seeber Frank , Klotz Christian , Ignatius Ralf , Aebischer Toni
Published: April 2013

Depletion of arginine is a recognized strategy that pathogens use to evade immune effector mechanisms. Depletion depends on microbial enzymes such as arginases, which are considered virulence factors. The effect is mostly interpreted as being a consequence of successful competition with host enzymes for the substrate. However, both arginases and arginine deiminases (ADI) have been associated with pathogen virulence. Both deplete arginine, but their reaction products differ. An ADI has been implicated in the virulence of
Giardia duodenalis
, an intestinal parasite that infects humans and animals, causing significant morbidity. Dendritic cells (DC) play a critical role in host defense and also in a murine
G. duodenalis
infection model. The functional properties of these innate immune cells depend on the milieu in which they are activated. Here, the dependence of the response of these cells on arginine was studied by using
Giardia
ADI and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocyte-derived DC. Arginine depletion by ADI significantly increased tumor necrosis factor alpha and decreased interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-12p40 secretion. It also reduced the upregulation of surface CD83 and CD86 molecules, which are involved in cell-cell interactions. Arginine depletion also reduced the phosphorylation of S6 kinase in DC, suggesting the involvement of the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. The changes were due to arginine depletion and the formation of reaction products, in particular, ammonium ions. Comparison of NH
4
+
and urea revealed distinct immunomodulatory activities of these products of deiminases and arginases, respectively. The data suggest that a better understanding of the role of arginine-depleting pathogen enzymes for immune evasion will have to take enzyme class and reaction products into consideration.
Duodenal perforation in an infant with rotavirus gastroenteritis
Authors: Stabell Niklas , Klingenberg Claus , Rushfeldt Christian
Published: April 2013

We describe for the first time a case of an infant with rotavirus gastroenteritis complicated by a duodenal perforation. Awareness of the perforation risk may prevent severe or lethal outcomes in this common infection among infants and children.
Fetal supraventricular tachycardia, treating the baby by targeting the mother
Authors: Husain Aysha , Hubail Zakariya , Al Banna Rashed
Published: April 2013

Fetal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is the most common form of fetal tachycardia. If started early in pregnancy, it can cause non-immune fetal hydrops. Echocardiography is the preferred method for the diagnosis with simultaneous pulsed Doppler recording from the superior vena cava and ascending aorta. Transplacental therapy with digoxin is the most common way of treatment. We present a case of fetal SVT detected at 26 weeks of pregnancy. Digoxin therapy restored the rhythm initially, but later paroxysms of fetal SVT persisted necessitating the addition of second antiarrhythmic medication which was discussed with the parents. The couple chose to proceed for premature delivery at 32 weeks.
The McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome: a rare cause of chronic diarrhoea
Authors: Hashash Jana G , Holder-Murray Jennifer , Aoun Elie , Yadav Dhiraj
Published: April 2013

The McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome, a rare disorder, is caused by fluid and electrolyte hypersecretion from a rectal tumour and patients can develop a depletion syndrome characterised by severe dehydration, hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia and metabolic acidosis. We present a case of a 62-year-old man who presented with chronic diarrhoea that had resulted in numerous previous hospital admissions. On physical exam, the patient showed signs of volume depletion. A soft polypoid mass was appreciated on digital rectal examination. Laboratory tests showed renal failure and significant electrolyte abnormalities. Colonoscopy revealed a large, friable mass in the rectosigmoid region. Biopsies were consistent with tubolovillous adenoma. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgical resection, which on pathology exhibited evidence of high-grade dysplasia, and the patient was diagnosed with McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome. It is essential to identify this condition in a timely manner as it is associated with high morbidity and complications, some of which may be life threatening.
Salivary antimicrobial protein responses during multistage ultramarathon competition conducted in hot environmental conditions
Authors: Gill Samantha Kirsty , Teixeira Ana Maria , Rama Luis , Rosado Fátima , Hankey Joanne , Scheer Volker , Robson-Ansley Paula , Costa Ricardo Jose Soares
Published: April 2013

Prolonged strenuous exercise is commonly reported to depress oral-respiratory immune status and increase the incidence of upper respiratory symptoms. This novel investigation aimed to determine the salivary antimicrobial responses and hydration status of ultraendurance runners (n = 23) during a 230-km multistage ultramarathon conducted in hot ambient conditions (32–40 °C). Body mass was measured and unstimulated saliva and venous blood samples were taken before and after each stage of the ultramarathon. Ad libitum fluid intake was permitted throughout each race day. Upper respiratory symptoms were monitored during and until 4 weeks after race completion. Samples were analyzed for salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA), lysozyme, α-amylase, and cortisol, as well as for plasma and saliva osmolality. Mean exercise-induced body mass loss over the 5 stages ranged from 1.3% to 2.4%. Overall mean pre- and post-stage plasma osmolality measurements in the ultraendurance runners were 279 ± 14 mOsmol·kg−1and 293 ± 15 mOsmol·kg−1, respectively. Decreases in saliva flow rate (overall change 22%) and post-stage increases in saliva osmolality (36%) were observed in the ultraendurance runners during the ultramarathon. Reduced salivary IgA (32%) (p < 0.001 vs. pre-stage salivary IgA), enhanced salivary α-amylase (187%) (p < 0.001 vs. pre-stage salivary α-amylase), and no change in salivary lysozyme secretion rates were observed in the ultraendurance runners throughout the ultramarathon. Only 1 ultraendurance runner reported upper respiratory symptoms during and 1 month after competition. Observed depressions in salivary IgA secretion rates were offset by favourable increases in salivary α-amylase and unchanged lysozyme responses in the majority of runners during the competition. Ensuring euhydration throughout a multistage ultramarathon competition in the heat may play a role in protecting the upper respiratory tract.
Directional selection against different life histories in the Arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum): identification by microsatellite analysis
Authors: Yamazaki Yuji , Nagai Terumi
Published: April 2013

To understand the selective forces promoting life history evolution in lampreys, footprints of natural selection were identified using the hitchhiking mapping approach for microsatellite loci. To achieve the objective, the Arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum), including anadromous and recently derived landlocked-fluvial populations, were targeted. Seven microsatellites were genotyped and subjected to population genetic analyses and outlier tests. The results indicated that a significant signature of directional selection could be detected in one microsatellite locus (Lspn013). Discrepancies in allelic frequencies of Lspn013 were remarkable between anadromous and landlocked-fluvial populations, leading to high population genetic divergence between them. Based on a homology search, Lspn013 was estimated to be located near the vasotocin precursor gene, which plays an important role in osmoregulation. Life history differences in lampreys have resulted from habitat difference in adult phase, which have probably led to recent natural selection on the gene responsible for osmoregulatory functions.
MODELING AND COMPLEXITY STUDY OF OUTPUT GAME AMONG MULTIPLE OLIGOPOLISTIC MANUFACTURERS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN SYSTEM
Authors: WANG GUANHUI , MA JUNHAI
Published: April 2013

Supply chain system is a complex system in which node enterprises play important roles and exert great influence. This paper proposes an output game model among multiple oligopolistic manufacturers under the circumstances of information asymmetry and analyzes the Nash equilibrium in the model. The manufacturers usually base their production decision making on the volume of order from distributors and the production decisions made by other manufacturers. They also suitably adjust the output. If the adjustment speed accelerates, chaos will be caused in the manufacturers' production decision. This paper analyzes the proposed model from a perspective of complex dynamics and discusses the impact of system parameter on the complexity of this discrete chaotic system. The measures to retain chaos among manufacturers are suggested.
ON THE NUMBER OF LIMIT CYCLES FOR A GENERALIZATION OF LIÉNARD POLYNOMIAL DIFFERENTIAL SYSTEMS
Authors: LLIBRE JAUME , VALLS CLAUDIA
Published: April 2013

We study the number of limit cycles of the polynomial differential systems of the form [Formula: see text] where g1(x) = εg11(x) + ε2g12(x) + ε3g13(x), g2(x) = εg21(x) + ε2g22(x) + ε3g23(x) and f(x) = εf1(x) + ε2 f2(x) + ε3 f3(x) where g1i, g2i, f2i have degree k, m and n respectively for each i = 1, 2, 3, and ε is a small parameter. Note that when g1(x) = 0 we obtain the generalized Liénard polynomial differential systems. We provide an upper bound of the maximum number of limit cycles that the previous differential system can have bifurcating from the periodic orbits of the linear center ẋ = y, ẏ = -x using the averaging theory of third order.
AN APPLICATION OF ADOMIAN DECOMPOSITION FOR ANALYSIS OF FRACTIONAL-ORDER CHAOTIC SYSTEMS
Authors: CAPONETTO R. , FAZZINO S.
Published: April 2013

Fractional-order differential equations are interesting for their applications in the construction of mathematical models in finance, materials science or diffusion. Various methods for obtaining analytic solutions of nonlinear evolution equations have been proposed. In this paper, an application of the Adomian decomposition method is employed for simulation and analysis of fractional-order chaotic systems. The results reveal that the proposed method is very effective and simple and leads to accurate, approximately convergent solutions to nonlinear equations.
BOUNDED TRAVELING WAVES OF THE GENERALIZED BURGERS–FISHER EQUATION
Authors: ZHOU YUQIAN , LIU QIAN , ZHANG WEINIAN
Published: April 2013

In this paper, bounded traveling waves of a generalized Burgers–Fisher equation are investigated. By studying some complicated local and nonlocal bifurcations such as the Hopf bifurcation, homoclinic bifurcation, heteroclinic bifurcation and Poincaré bifurcation of the corresponding traveling wave system, we obtain sufficient conditions to guarantee the existence of different kinds of bounded traveling waves, including solitary waves, kink waves and periodic waves. Further, we discuss the existence of various oscillatory bounded traveling waves.
SHILNIKOV CHAOS IN LORENZ-LIKE SYSTEMS
Authors: LEONOV G. A.
Published: April 2013

For Lorenz-like system, conditions of Shilnikov chaos are obtained. Algorithms for computation of bifurcational values of parameters, which correspond to homoclinic trajectories are formulated. Modified Lorenz, Chen and Lu systems are considered.
FACTORIZATION OF AUTOMORPHIC L-FUNCTIONS AND THEIR ZERO STATISTICS
Authors: GILLESPIE TIM
Published: April 2013

In this paper we define a Rankin–Selberg L-function attached to two Galois invariant automorphic cuspidal representations of GL m(𝔸E) and GL m′(𝔸F) over cyclic Galois extensions E and F of prime degree. This differs from the classical case in that the two extension fields E and F could be completely unrelated to one another, and we exploit the existence of the automorphic induction functor over cyclic extensions (see [J. Arthur and L. Clozel, Simple Algebras, Base Change, and the Advanced Theory of the Trace Formula, Annals of Mathematics Studies, No. 120 (Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ, 1989)]) to define the L-function. Using a result proved by C. S. Rajan, we prove a prime number theorem for this L-function, and proceed to calculate the n-level correlation function of high nontrivial zeros of a product L(s, π1)L(s, π2)…L(s, πk) where πi is a Galois invariant cuspidal representation of GL ni(𝔸Fi) with Fi a cyclic Galois extension of prime degree ℓi for i = 1,…,k, thus generalizing the results of Liu and Ye [Functoriality of automorphic L-functions through their zeros, Sci. China Ser. A51(1) (2008) 1–16].
EXISTENCE OF COVERS WITH FIXED RAMIFICATION IN POSITIVE CHARACTERISTIC
Authors: BOUW IRENE I. , ZAPPONI LEONARDO
Published: April 2013

We discuss two elementary constructions for covers with fixed ramification in positive characteristic. As an application, we compute the number of certain classes of covers between projective lines branched at four points and compute the Hurwitz curve parametrizing these covers.
ON THE ℤp-RANKS OF TAMELY RAMIFIED IWASAWA MODULES
Authors: ITOH TSUYOSHI , MIZUSAWA YASUSHI , OZAKI MANABU
Published: April 2013

For a finite set S of prime numbers, we consider the S-ramified Iwasawa module which is the Galois group of the maximal abelian pro-p-extension unramified outside S over the cyclotomic ℤp-extension of a number field k. In the case where S does not contain p and k is the rational number field or an imaginary quadratic field, we give the explicit formulae of the ℤp-ranks of the S-ramified Iwasawa modules by using Brumer's p-adic version of Baker's theorem on the linear independence of logarithms of algebraic numbers.
SOLUTIONS OF THE CUBIC FERMAT EQUATION IN QUADRATIC FIELDS
Authors: JONES MARVIN , ROUSE JEREMY
Published: April 2013

We give necessary and sufficient conditions on a squarefree integer d for there to be non-trivial solutions to x3+ y3= z3in [Formula: see text], conditional on the Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture. These conditions are similar to those obtained by J. Tunnell in his solution to the congruent number problem.
Sexually Transmitted Infections and Male Circumcision: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Van Howe Robert S.
Published: April 2013

The claim that circumcision reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections has been repeated so frequently that many believe it is true. A systematic review and meta-analyses were performed on studies of genital discharge syndrome versus genital ulcerative disease, genital discharge syndrome, nonspecific urethritis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital ulcerative disease, chancroid, syphilis, herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus, and contracting a sexually transmitted infection of any type. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, and human papillomavirus are not significantly impacted by circumcision. Syphilis showed mixed results with studies of prevalence suggesting intact men were at great risk and studies of incidence suggesting the opposite. Intact men appear to be of greater risk for genital ulcerative disease while at lower risk for genital discharge syndrome, nonspecific urethritis, genital warts, and the overall risk of any sexually transmitted infection. In studies of general populations, there is no clear or consistent positive impact of circumcision on the risk of individual sexually transmitted infections. Consequently, the prevention of sexually transmitted infections cannot rationally be interpreted as a benefit of circumcision, and any policy of circumcision for the general population to prevent sexually transmitted infections is not supported by the evidence in the medical literature.
A Dynamic Fuzzy Cluster Algorithm for Time Series
Authors: Ji Min , Xie Fuding , Ping Yu
Published: April 2013

This paper presents an efficient algorithm, called dynamic fuzzy cluster (DFC), for dynamically clustering time series by introducing the definition of key point and improving FCM algorithm. The proposed algorithm works by determining those time series whose class labels are vague and further partitions them into different clusters over time. The main advantage of this approach compared with other existing algorithms is that the property of some time series belonging to different clusters over time can be partially revealed. Results from simulation-based experiments on geographical data demonstrate the excellent performance and the desired results have been obtained. The proposed algorithm can be applied to solve other clustering problems in data mining.
Cytokines and Chemokines as Biomarkers of Community-Acquired Bacterial Infection
Authors: Holub Michal , Lawrence David A. , Andersen Nancy , Davidová Alžběta , Beran Ondřej , Marešová Vilma , Chalupa Pavel
Published: April 2013

Routinely used biomarkers of bacterial etiology of infection, such as C-reactive protein and procalcitonin, have limited usefulness for evaluation of infections since their expression is enhanced by a number of different conditions. Therefore, several inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were analyzed with sera from patients hospitalized for moderate bacterial and viral infectious diseases. In total, 57 subjects were enrolled: 21 patients with community-acquired bacterial infections, 26 patients with viral infections, and 10 healthy subjects (control cohorts). The laboratory analyses were performed using Luminex technology, and the following molecules were examined: IL-1Ra, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, INF-γ, MIP-1β, and MCP-1. Bacterial etiology of infection was associated with significantly (P<0.001) elevated serum concentrations of IL-1Ra, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-αin comparison to levels observed in the sera of patients with viral infections. In the patients with bacterial infections, IL-1Ra and IL-8 demonstrated positive correlation with C-reactive protein, whereas, IL-1Ra, TNF-α, and MCP-1 correlated with procalcitonin. Furthermore, elevated levels of IL-1Ra, IL-6, and TNF-αdecreased within 3 days of antibiotic therapy to levels observed in control subjects. The results show IL-1Ra as a potential useful biomarker of community-acquired bacterial infection.
Bilateral Fibular Graft: Biological Reconstruction after Resection of Primary Malignant Bone Tumors of the Lower Limb
Authors: Niethard Maya , Tiedke Carmen , Andreou Dimosthenis , Traub Frank , Kuhnert Mario , Werner Mathias , Tunn Per-Ulf
Published: April 2013

This paper deals with bilateral vascularized fibular grafts (BVFG) as a method for reconstruction of metadiaphyseal defects of the femur and tibia in young patients suffering from malignant bone tumors of the lower limb. This reconstructional technique was used in 11 patients undergoing metadiaphyseal resection of lower limb malignant bone tumors. All patients with Ewing’s sarcoma and osteosarcoma had multimodal treatment according to the EURO-E.W.I.N.G 99 or COSS-96 protocol. Median FU was 63 months. None of the patients experienced local recurrence during FU. 2 patients died due to distant disease during FU. Full weight- bearing was permitted after a mean of 8 months. The median MSTS score was 87%. Complications occurred in five patients. None of the complications led to failure of the biological reconstruction or to amputation. Biological reconstruction of osseous defects is always desirable when possible and aims at a permanent solution. Good functional and durable results can be obtained by using BVFG for the reconstruction of metadiaphyseal defects of the femur and tibia. Radiotherapy in the multimodal setting increases the risk for graft or fixation failure.
The Inverses of Block Toeplitz Matrices
Authors: Lv Xiao-Guang , Huang Ting-Zhu
Published: April 2013

We study the inverses of block Toeplitz matrices based on the analysis of the block cyclic displacement. New formulas for the inverses of block Toeplitz matrices are proposed. We show that the inverses of block Toeplitz matrices can be decomposed as a sum of products of block circulant matrices. In the scalar case, the inverse formulas are proved to be numerically forward stable, if the Toeplitz matrix is nonsingular and well conditioned.
Mechanisms of Weight Regain following Weight Loss
Authors: Blomain Erik Scott , Dirhan Dara Anne , Valentino Michael Anthony , Kim Gilbert Won , Waldman Scott Arthur
Published: April 2013

Obesity is a world-wide pandemic and its incidence is on the rise along with associated comorbidities. Currently, there are few effective therapies to combat obesity. The use of lifestyle modification therapy, namely, improvements in diet and exercise, is preferable over bariatric surgery or pharmacotherapy due to surgical risks and issues with drug efficacy and safety. Although they are initially successful in producing weight loss, such lifestyle intervention strategies are generally unsuccessful in achieving long-term weight maintenance, with the vast majority of obese patients regaining their lost weight during followup. Recently, various compensatory mechanisms have been elucidated by which the body may oppose new weight loss, and this compensation may result in weight regain back to the obese baseline. The present review summarizes the available evidence on these compensatory mechanisms, with a focus on weight loss-induced changes in energy expenditure, neuroendocrine pathways, nutrient metabolism, and gut physiology. These findings have added a major focus to the field of antiobesity research. In addition to investigating pathways that induce weight loss, the present work also focuses on pathways that may instead prevent weight regain. Such strategies will be necessary for improving long-term weight loss maintenance and outcomes for patients who struggle with obesity.
On Cartesian Products of Orthogonal Double Covers
Authors: El Shanawany R. , Higazy M. , El Mesady A.
Published: April 2013

LetHbe a graph onnvertices and𝒢a collection ofnsubgraphs ofH, one for each vertex, where𝒢is an orthogonal double cover (ODC) ofHif every edge ofHoccurs in exactly two members of𝒢and any two members share an edge whenever the corresponding vertices are adjacent inHand share no edges whenever the corresponding vertices are nonadjacent inH. In this paper, we are concerned with the Cartesian product of symmetric starter vectors of orthogonal double covers of the complete bipartite graphs and using this method to construct ODCs by new disjoint unions of complete bipartite graphs.
The Inverse 1-Median Problem on Tree Networks with Variable Real Edge Lengths
Authors: Wu Longshu , Lee Joonwhoan , Zhang Jianhua , Wang Qin
Published: April 2013

Location problems exist in the real world and they mainly deal with finding optimal locations for facilities in a network, such as net servers, hospitals, and shopping centers. The inverse location problem is also often met in practice and has been intensively investigated in the literature. As a typical inverse location problem, the inverse 1-median problem on tree networks with variable real edge lengths is discussed in this paper, which is to modify the edge lengths at minimum total cost such that a given vertex becomes a 1-median of the tree network with respect to the new edge lengths. First, this problem is shown to be solvable in linear time with variable nonnegative edge lengths. For the case when negative edge lengths are allowable, the NP-hardness is proved under Hamming distance, and strongly polynomial time algorithms are presented underl1andl∞norms, respectively.
Synchronization in Array of Coupled Neural Networks with Unbounded Distributed Delay and Limited Transmission Efficiency
Authors: Yang Xinsong , Zhou Mengzhe , Cao Jinde
Published: April 2013

This paper investigates global synchronization in an array of coupled neural networks with time-varying delays and unbounded distributed delays. In the coupled neural networks, limited transmission efficiency between coupled nodes, which makes the model more practical, is considered. Based on a novel integral inequality and the Lyapunov functional method, sufficient synchronization criteria are derived. The derived synchronization criteria are formulated by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) and can be easily verified by using Matlab LMI Toolbox. It is displayed that, when some of the transmission efficiencies are limited, the dynamics of the synchronized state are different from those of the isolated node. Furthermore, the transmission efficiency and inner coupling matrices between nodes play important roles in the final synchronized state. The derivative of the time-varying delay can be any given value, and the time-varying delay can be unbounded. The outer-coupling matrices can be symmetric or asymmetric. Numerical simulations are finally given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Formic Acid Electrooxidation by a Platinum Nanotubule Array Electrode
Authors: Broaddus Eric , Wedell Ann , Gold Scott A.
Published: April 2013

One-dimensional metallic nanostructures such as nanowires, rods, and tubes have drawn much attention for electrocatalytic applications due to potential advantages that include fewer diffusion impeding interfaces with polymeric binders, more facile pathways for electron transfer, and more effective exposure of active surface sites. 1D nanostructured electrodes have been fabricated using a variety of methods, typically showing improved current response which has been attributed to improved CO tolerance, enhanced surface activity, and/or improved transport characteristics. A template wetting approach was used to fabricate an array of platinum nanotubules which were examined electrochemically with regard to the electrooxidation of formic acid. Arrays of 100 and 200 nm nanotubules were compared to a traditional platinum black catalyst, all of which were found to have similar surface areas. Peak formic acid oxidation current was observed to be highest for the 100 nm nanotubule array, followed by the 200 nm array and the Pt black; however, CO tolerance of all electrodes was similar, as were the onset potentials of the oxidation and reduction peaks. The higher current response was attributed to enhanced mass transfer in the nanotubule electrodes, likely due to a combination of both the more open nanostructure as well as the lack of a polymeric binder in the catalyst layer.
Toxicity from Intra-Abdominal Injection of Chlorfenapyr
Authors: Lee Jina , Lee Jun Hyun , Baek Jong Min , Lee Do Sang , Park Il Young , Won Jong Man , Sung Ki Young
Published: April 2013

Introduction. Chlorfenapyr is commonly used for food crops in Korea. However, chlorfenapyr toxicity in humans has not yet been studied.Case. A 74-year-old man was admitted to the emergency room after he intra-abdominally injected 20 mL of chlorfenapyr in an attempt to commit suicide. Emergency surgery was performed and accumulation of approximately 500 mL of reactive fluid in the abdomen was observed. The entire small intestine showed congestion. After surgery, additional surgery to drain the fluid was performed on POD 12. But immediately after administration of general anesthesia, flat rhythm was observed by electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring, requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).Discussion. The color of the bowel was purple, indicating ischemic injury. This could be attributed to direct absorption of the substance through the peritoneum, leading to chemical injury to the small intestine serosa, unlike in the case of oral ingestion. This resulted in an ischemic change in the small intestine, eventually leading to sepsis.Conclusion. Only a few cases of chlorfenapyr toxicity have been reported in the literature, and death occurred in all cases, including our case. Therefore, careful and aggressive treatments are necessary. This is the first reported case of intra-abdominal injection of chlorfenapyr.
Technical Note: Facilitating Laparoscopic Liver Biopsy by the Use of a Single-Handed Disposable Core Biopsy Needle
Authors: Trochsler M. I. , Ralph Q. , Bridgewater F. , Kanhere H. , Maddern Guy J.
Published: April 2013

Despite the use of advanced radiological investigations, some liver lesions cannot be definitely diagnosed without a biopsy and histological examination. Laparoscopic Tru-Cut biopsy of the liver lesion is the preferred approach to achieve a good sample for histology. The mechanism of a Tru-Cut biopsy needle needs the use of both hands to load and fire the needle. This restricts the ability of the surgeon to direct the needle into the lesion utilising the laparoscopic ultrasound probe. We report a technique of laparoscopic liver biopsy using a disposable core biopsy instrument (BARD (R) disposable core biopsy needle) that can be used single-handedly. The needle can be positioned with laparoscopic graspers in order to reach posterior and superior lesions. This technique can easily be used in conjunction with laparoscopic ultrasound.
Clinical Differences between Men and Women with Psoriatic Arthritis: Relevance of the Analysis of Genes and Polymorphisms in the Major Histocompatibility Complex Region and of the Age at Onset of Psoriasis
Authors: Queiro Rubén , Tejón Patricia , Coto Pablo , Alonso Sara , Alperi Mercedes , Sarasqueta Cristina , González Segundo , Martínez-Borra Jesús , López-Larrea Carlos , Ballina Javier
Published: April 2013

It has been shown that males with spondyloarthritis tend to suffer from more severe spinal disease while females are more likely to have peripheral joint involvement. Nevertheless, gender-related differences have not been thoroughly explored in psoriatic arthritis (PsA). In PsA, males accumulate more peripheral and axial joint damage compared to women. However, it is not clear whether these findings are secondary to differences in occupational physical activity, hormonal changes, or other factors. The present study analyzed the differences in clinical expression of PsA between men and women. We have also evaluated the possible existence of gender-linked differences in the distribution of genes and polymorphisms within the major histocompatibility complex and whether patients’ age at the onset of psoriasis established any differences in these aspects. Women suffered more polyarthritis, greater functional impairment, and a larger number of swollen joints during followup. We appreciated a differential expression of certain MHC genes according to gender and age at onset of psoriasis. Our results point to the need to include patient’s age at the onset of psoriasis and gender as key stratification elements in future studies of genetic associations in PsA.
Serum Phosphate Predicts Early Mortality among Underweight Adults Starting ART in Zambia: A Novel Context for Refeeding Syndrome?
Authors: Koethe John R. , Blevins Meridith , Nyirenda Christopher K. , Kabagambe Edmond K. , Chiasera Janelle M. , Shepherd Bryan E. , Zulu Isaac , Heimburger Douglas C.
Published: April 2013

Background. Low body mass index (BMI) at antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is associated with early mortality, but the etiology is not well understood. We hypothesized that low pretreatment serum phosphate, a critical cellular metabolism intermediate primarily stored in skeletal muscle, may predict mortality within the first 12 weeks of ART.Methods. We prospectively studied 352 HIV-infected adults initiating ART in Lusaka, Zambia to estimate the odds of death for each 0.1 mmol/L decrease in baseline phosphate after adjusting for established predictors of mortality.Results. The distribution of phosphate values was similar across BMI categories (median value 1.2 mmol/L). Among the 145 participants with BMI<18.5 kg/m2, 28 (19%) died within 12 weeks. Lower pretreatment serum phosphate was associated with increased mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.24 per 0.1 mmol/L decrement, 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.47;P=0.01) after adjusting for sex, age, and CD4+lymphocyte count. A similar relationship was not observed among participants with BMI ≥18.5 kg/m2(OR 0.96, 95% CI: 0.76 to 1.21;P=0.74).Conclusions. The association of low pretreatment serum phosphate level and early ART mortality among undernourished individuals may represent a variant of the refeeding syndrome. Further studies of cellular metabolism in this population are needed.
A New Piecewise-Spectral Homotopy Analysis Method for Solving Chaotic Systems of Initial Value Problems
Authors: Nik H. Saberi , Effati Sohrab , Motsa Sandile S. , Shateyi Stanford
Published: April 2013

An accurate algorithm for solving initial value problems (IVPs) which are highly oscillatory is proposed. The proposed method is based on a novel technique of extending the standard spectral homotopy analysis method (SHAM) and adapting it to a sequence of multiple intervals. In this new application the method is referred to as the piecewise spectral homotopy analysis method (PSHAM). The applicability of the proposed method is examined on the differential equation system modeling HIV infection of CD4+T cells and the Genesio-Tesi system which is known to be chaotic and highly oscillatory. Also, for the first time, we present here a convergence proof for SHAM. We treat in detail Legendre collocation and Chebyshev collocation. The method is compared to MATLAB’sode45inbuilt solver as a measure of accuracy and efficiency.
The Possible Potential Therapeutic Targets for Drug Induced Gingival Overgrowth
Authors: Subramani Tamilselvan , Rathnavelu Vidhya , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu
Published: April 2013

Gingival overgrowth is a side effect of certain medications. The most fibrotic drug-induced lesions develop in response to therapy with phenytoin, the least fibrotic lesions are caused by cyclosporin A, and the intermediate fibrosis occurs in nifedipine-induced gingival overgrowth. Fibrosis is one of the largest groups of diseases for which there is no therapy but is believed to occur because of a persistent tissue repair program. During connective tissue repair, activated gingival fibroblasts synthesize and remodel newly created extracellular matrix. Proteins such as transforming growth factor (TGF), endothelin-1 (ET-1), angiotensin II (Ang II), connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) appear to act in a network that contributes to the development of gingival fibrosis. Since inflammation is the prerequisite for gingival overgrowth, mast cells and its protease enzymes also play a vital role in the pathogenesis of gingival fibrosis. Drugs targeting these proteins are currently under consideration as antifibrotic treatments. This review summarizes recent observations concerning the contribution of TGF-β, CTGF, IGF, PDGF, ET-1, Ang II, and mast cell chymase and tryptase enzymes to fibroblast activation in gingival fibrosis and the potential utility of agents blocking these proteins in affecting the outcome of drug-induced gingival overgrowth.
Data Processing and Algorithm Analysis of Vehicle Path Planning Based on Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Tao Wenyuan , Chen Mingqin
Published: April 2013

Optimizing the path planning to reduce the time and cost is an essential consideration in modern society, and existing research has mostly concentrated on static path planning and real-time data information in vehicle navigational applications. Using dynamic path planning to adjust and update the path information in time is a challenging approach to reduce road congestion and traffic accidents. In this paper, we present a data analysis algorithm that determines an efficient dynamic path for vehicle repair-scrap sites and navigates more flexibly to avoid obstacles, where the key idea is to design the sensor wireless network that helps to obtain data from different devices. Firstly, the data processing scheme for real-time data with regional cluster and node division can be obtained from different sensor devices through the wireless senor network. Secondly, the search space and the relevant road information are restricted to a strongly connected graph. The most important strategy for an optimal solution to find the shortest path is the search method. Finally, to validate the performance of our design and algorithm, we have conducted a simulation based on necessary traffic variables. The performance simulation results show that real-time dynamic path planning can be significantly optimized using our data processing scheme.
Successful Treatment of Hemorrhagic Bullous Henoch-Schönlein Purpura with Oral Corticosteroid: A Case Report
Authors: Kocaoglu Celebi , Ozturk Ramazan , Unlu Yasar , Akyurek Fatma Tuncez , Arslan Sukru
Published: April 2013

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a vasculitis of small-sized blood vessels, resulting from immunoglobulin-A-mediated inflammation. It is the most common acute systemic vasculitis in childhood and mainly affects skin, gastrointestinal tract, joints, and kidneys. The characteristic rash of HSP consists of palpable purpuric lesions 2 to 10 mm in diameter concentrating in the buttocks and lower extremities. The occurrence of hemorrhagic bullae in children with HSP is rarely encountered. This report describes a 4.5-year-old female patient with HSP associated with hemorrhagic bullous lesions.
Existence and Uniqueness of the Exponentially Stable Limit Cycle for a Class of Nonlinear Systems via Time-Domain Approach with Differential Inequality
Authors: Sun Yeong-Jeu , Wu Yu-Biaw , Wang Ching-Cheng
Published: April 2013

The concept of the exponentially stable limit cycle (ESLC) is introduced, and the ESLC phenomenon for a class of nonlinear systems is explored. Based on time-domain approach with differential inequality, the existence and uniqueness of the ESLC for such nonlinear systems can be guaranteed. Besides, the period of oscillation, the amplitude of oscillation, and guaranteed convergence rate can be accurately estimated. Finally, two numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the obtained result.
Autoimmune Cytopenias in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: D'Arena Giovanni , Guariglia Roberto , La Rocca Francesco , Trino Stefania , Condelli Valentina , De Martino Laura , De Feo Vincenzo , Musto Pellegrino
Published: April 2013

The clinical course of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) may be complicated at any time by autoimmune phenomena.The most common ones are hematologic disorders, such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and autoimmune agranulocytosis (AG) are, indeed, more rarely seen. However, they are probably underestimated due to the possible misleading presence of cytopenias secondary to leukemic bone marrow involvement or to chemotherapy cytotoxicity. The source of autoantibodies is still uncertain, despite the most convincing data are in favor of the involvement of resting normal B-cells. In general, excluding the specific treatment of underlying CLL, the managementof these complications is not different from that of idiopathic autoimmune cytopenias or of those associated to other causes. Among different therapeutic approaches, monoclonal antibody rituximab, given alone or in combination, has shown to be very effective.
Stationary in Distributions of Numerical Solutions for Stochastic Partial Differential Equations with Markovian Switching
Authors: Shen Yi , Li Yan
Published: April 2013

We investigate a class of stochastic partial differential equations with Markovian switching. By using the Euler-Maruyama scheme both in time and in space of mild solutions, we derive sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the stationary distributions of numerical solutions. Finally, one example is given to illustrate the theory.
Modulation of Human Colostrum Phagocyte Activity by the Glycine‐Adsorbed Polyethylene Glycol Microspheres
Authors: Guimarães Paulo Celso Leventi , Honorio-França Adenilda Cristina , Hara Cristiane de Castro Pernet , Fagundes Danny Laura Gomes , Ratto Silvia Hanna Bilotti , França Eduardo Luzía
Published: April 2013

Colostrum is a secretion that contains immunologically active components, including immunocompetent cells and glycine, which has anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cytoprotective effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adsorption of glycine onto polyethylene glycol (PEG) microspheres and to verify the immunomodulatory effect of this nanomaterial on human colostrum phagocytes. The PEG microspheres were evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. The effects of PEG microspheres with adsorbed glycine on viability, superoxide release, phagocytosis, microbicidal activity, and intracellular calcium release of mononuclear (MN) and polymorphonuclear (PMN) colostrum phagocytes were determined. Fluorescence microscopy analyses revealed that glycine was able to be adsorbed to the PEG microspheres. The PMN phagocytes exposed to glycine‐PEG microspheres showed the highest superoxide levels. The phagocytes (both MN and PMN) displayed increased microbicidal activity and intracellular calcium release in the presence of PEG microspheres with adsorbed glycine. These data suggest that the adsorption of PEG microspheres with adsorbed glycine was able to stimulate the colostrum phagocytes. This material may represent a possible alternative therapy for future clinical applications on patients with gastrointestinal infections.
Unusual Case of Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor in Maxilla
Authors: Rautava Jaana , Soukka Tero , Peltonen Esko , Nurmenniemi Petri , Kallajoki Markku , Syrjänen Stina
Published: April 2013

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare lesion found mostly in children and young adults and originates from the lung, abdominopelvic region, and retroperitoneum. Clinical manifestations of IMT or imaging are nonspecific and diagnosis is based on histopathological and immunohistochemical findings. Minority of all IMTs will metastasize. IMT in the oral cavity is an extreme rarity and this is a first case report of IMT in maxilla causing delayed tooth eruption and multiple cervical root resorption with an 11-year-old child. The IMT reported here was positive for smooth muscle actin, vimentin, and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK1) with immunohistochemistry. Only three IMTs of the jaws have been reported so far and none of them had delayed root eruption and tooth resorption. This unusual case of IMT in a child was also ALK1- positive supporting neoplastic origin of her tumor. The case presented here underscores the importance of histopathological examination of the tissue found in any root resorption especially in the case of multiple resorptions.
Assessment of Behavior Abnormalities of Corticosteroids in Children with Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Youssef Doaa Mohammed , Abdelsalam Mohamed Mohamed , Abozeid Ali Mohamed , Youssef Usama Mahmoud
Published: April 2013

Introduction. The objective of this work was to define the frequency and severity of steroid related behavioral side effects in children with steroid sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) during Treatment for relapse. Methods. 30 pediatric patients with steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome were studied; known as SSNS at complete remission or low dose of Prednisolone and have relapse on follow up. All children in this study were subjected to full history taking, thorough clinical examination, assessment socioeconomic standard, and assessment of pediatric quality of life, a battery of psychometric tests included pediatric anxiety, depression, and aggression scores. Results. Our results revealed that there are highly significant increase in the mean values of anxiety, depression and aggression among cases starts to appear on week one and extends to three, five and seven weeks compared to baseline. In the seventh week of follow up cases show significant positive correlation between prednisone doses and mean values of anxiety and depression scores and aggression. Conclusion. we concluded that all studied children with SSNS often experience significant problems with anxiety, depression, and increased aggression during high dose steroid therapy.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma: The Past, the Present, and the Future
Authors: Erovic Inamaria , Erovic Boban M.
Published: April 2013

Since the first description of the Merkel cell carcinoma by Cyril Toker in 1972, the number of studies has significantly increased over the last 4 decades. In this review, we will illustrate the historical background of the Merkel cell carcinoma beginning with the 19th century, the first description of the Merkel cell to the finding of the CK20 as a highly specific diagnostic marker and finally to the recently detected Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Moreover, we will highlight the beginning of adjuvant therapeutic regimens with radiotherapy and chemotherapy and discuss the diagnostic work-up including imaging and histology of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Another very rapidly growing and interesting field of research is the development of patients' specific and tailored targeted therapy, in particular in patients with distant metastatic disease.
Phase I Dose-Escalation Study of VB-111, an Antiangiogenic Virotherapy, in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Brenner Andrew J. , Cohen Yael C. , Breitbart Eyal , Bangio Livnat , Sarantopoulos John , Giles Francis J. , Borden Ernest C. , Harats Dror , Triozzi Pierre L.
Published: April 2013

Purpose: VB-111 is an antiangiogenic agent consisting of a nonreplicating adenovirus vector (Ad-5) with a modified murine pre-proendothelin promoter leading to apoptosis of tumor vasculature by expressing a Fas-chimera transgene in angiogenic endothelial cells. In a phase I dose-escalation study, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and efficacy of a single dose of VB-111 in patients with advanced solid tumors were evaluated.

Experimental Design: VB-111 was administered as a single i.v. infusion at escalating doses from 1 × 1010 (cohort 1) to 1 × 1013 (cohort 7) viral particles (VP) in successive cohorts. Assessments included pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, tumor response, and overall survival.

Results: Thirty-three patients were enrolled. VB-111 was safe and well-tolerated; self-limited fever and chills were seen at doses above 3 × 1011 VPs. Transgene expression was not detected in blood but was detected in an aspirate from a subcutaneous metastasis after treatment. One patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma had a partial response.

Conclusions: VB-111 was safe and well tolerated in patients with advanced metastatic cancer at a single administration of up to 1 × 1013 VPs. Evidence of transgene expression in tumor tissue and tumor response was observed. Clin Cancer Res; 19(14); 3996–4007. ©2013 AACR.