bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensified Adjuvant IFADIC Chemotherapy for Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Prospective Randomized Feasibility Trial
Authors: Brodowicz Thomas , Schwameis Eva , Widder Joachim , Amann Gabriele , Wiltschke Christoph , Dominkus Martin , Windhager Reinhard , Ritschl Peter , Pötter Richard , Kotz Rainer , Zielinski Christoph C.
Published: March 2011

Purpose. The present prospective randomized adjuvant trial was
carried out to compare the toxicity, feasibility and efficacy of augmented chemotherapy
added to hyperfractionated accelerated radiotherapy after wide or marginal resection of grade
2 and grade 3 soft tissue sarcoma (STS).

Patients and methods. Fifty‐nine patients underwent primary surgery
by wide or marginal excision and were subsequently randomized to receive radiotherapy
alone or under the addition of six courses of ifosfamide (1500 mg/m2
, days 1–4), dacarbazine
(DTIC) (200 mg/m2
, days 1–4) and doxorubicin (25 mg/m2
, days 1–2) administered in
14‐day‐intervals supported by granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (30 × 106
IU/day, s.c.)
on days 5–13. According to the randomization protocol, 28 patients received radiotherapy
only, whereas 31 patients were treated with additional chemotherapy.

Results. The relative ifosfamide–doxorubicin–DTIC (IFADIC) dose
intensity achieved was 93%. After a mean observation period of 41±19.7 months
(range, 8.1–84 months), 16 patients (57%) in the control group versus 24 patients (77%) in the
chemotherapy group were free of disease (p>0.05).Within the control group, tumor relapses
occurred in 12 patients (43%;six patients with distant metastases, two with local relapse,
four with both) versus seven patients (23%; five patients with distant metastases, one with
local recurrence, one with both) from the chemotherapy group. Relapse‐free survival (RFS)
(p=0.1), time to local failure (TLF) (p=0.09), time to distant failure (TDF) (p=0.17) as well as
overall survival (OS) (p=0.4) did not differ significantly between the two treatment groups.
Treatment‐related toxicity was generally mild in both treatment arms.

Conclusion. We conclude that the safety profile of intensified IFADIC
added to radiotherapy was manageable and tolerable in the current setting. Inclusion
of intensified IFADIC was not translated into a significant benefit concerning OS, RFS,
TLF andTDF as compared with radiotherapy only, although a potential benefit of
chemotherapy for grade 3 STS patients needs to be validated in prospective randomized
trials including larger patient numbers.
Schwannoma of T12 Vertebra: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Ramasamy P. , Shackleford I. , Al Jafari M.
Published: March 2011

We report a case of schwannoma of the twelfth thoracic vertebra that presented with
paraparesis. The tumour was excised, and posterior and anterior stabilisation was performed.
Eighteenmonths following this procedure, the patient has solid bony union, satisfactory
neurological improvement and no recurrence.
Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma Associated with an Elevated β‐HCGSerum Level Mimicking Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor
Authors: Froehner Michael , Gaertner Hans-Juergen , Manseck Andreas , Oehlschlaeger Sven , Wirth Manfred P.
Published: March 2011

Patient. A 65‐year‐old man was admitted with a large primary retroperitoneal
tumor and an increased β‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐HCG) serum level. A germ
cell tumor was suspected; however, a computed tomography‐guided biopsy failed to enable
tumor classification. After two courses of chemotherapy, the β‐HCG serum level had returned
to the normal level and a diagnostic laparotomy with incisional biopsy was performed.
The immunohistochemical examination of the specimen identified the tumor as a
retroperitoneal pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma.

Discussion. Tumor markers play only a marginal role in the work‐up
of patients with soft tissue sarcomas. In men with suspected retroperitoneal sarcomas,
however, the determination of germ cell tumor markers occasionally enables a preoperative
distinguishing of primary retroperitoneal germ cell tumors with considerable consequences
for management. In this setting, a retroperitoneal tumor associated with a moderately
elevated β‐HCG is a diagnostic dilemma, and surgeons should be aware of the pitfall
of a β‐HCG‐producing leiomyosarcoma in the differential diagnosis.
Pancreatic Head Mass from Metastatic MeningealHemangiopericytoma
Authors: Teh Bin S. , Lu Hsin H. , Jhala Darshana N. , Shahab Imran , Lynch G. Rush
Published: March 2011

Purpose. To illustrate the propensity of meningeal hemangiopericytoma
to spread extraneurally, as a distinction to the ordinary meningioma.

Patients or subjects. A patient with long history of meningeal
hemangiopericytoma was reported.

Methods. A case report on meningeal hemangiopericytoma with a literature
review was presented.

Results. The patient has multiple local recurrence as well as distant
metastases.This is the first case report of metastatic meningeal hemangiopericytoma causing
compression of the pancreatic head.The patient also has biopsy‐proven pulmonary
metastases.The patient received both local and systemic therapy.

Discussion. It is important to recognize the distinctive features
differentiating meningeal hemangiopericytoma from meningioma. The positive impact of
clinico‐pathological correlation on patient management is emphasized.
Confirmed Angiosarcoma: Prognostic Factors and Outcome in 50Prospectively Followed Patients
Authors: Espat N. J. , Lewis J. J. , Woodruff J. M. , Antonescu C. , Xia J. , Leung D. , Brennan M. F.
Published: March 2011

Purpose. Angiosarcoma is a rare tumor with endothelial cell
differentiation that may arise in any anatomic location.The purpose of this report was to
identify prognostic factors on outcome in a group of prospectively followed patients with
confirmed angiosarcoma.

Subjects. Adult patients (>16 years old) with angiosarcoma treated
between July 1982 and February 1998 were identified from a prospective database.

Methods. Pathologic confirmation of all cases was performed prior to
inclusion in this analysis. Various prognostic factors were evaluated for disease‐specific
survival. Survival was determined by the Kaplan– Meier method. Statistical significance
was evaluated by log‐rank test for univariate analysis and Cox stepwise regression for
multivariate analysis (p<0.05).

Results. Fifty patients were identified; at the initial evaluation, this
group included 32 patients with a primary tumor, three with local recurrence and 15 with
metastatic disease. Tumor sites included 16 head and neck and skin of head, eight
extremity, seven trunk, six breast, five pelvis, four viscera and four thoracic. Median
follow‐up among survivors was 71 months (range, 38–191 months).Two‐ and 5‐year
disease‐specific survival was 50 and 30%, respectively, with a median of 24 months.
The factor predictive of tumor‐related mortality was presentation status
(p=0.001; relative risk, 5). Two‐year disease‐specific survival for patients presenting
with recurrent or metastatic disease was 13%, compared with 70% for those
with primary disease.
Chondrosarcoma of the Pelvis: Oncologic and Functional Outcome
Authors: Wirbel Reiner J. , Schulte Michael , Maier Bernd , Koschnik Martin , Mutschler Wolf E.
Published: March 2011

Purpose. Chondrosarcoma (CS) most commonly involves the pelvis.
The factors that influence local and systemic control of pelvic CS and the functional outcome
should be evaluated.

Patients. Fifty‐one patients (37 males and 14 females; mean age, 39.4 years)
with pelvic CS were included in this retrospective study.

Methods. The tumor stage, surgical treatment, surgical margin achieved,
complications, incidence of local recurrence (LR), incidence of distant metastases, and the
oncologic and functional status were evaluated. Oncologic outcome was estimated
by the method of Kaplan and Meier, and the functional status was scored according to
Musculoskeleral Tumor Society (MSTS) criteria. Analysis of variance was used to determine
the factors that influence the oncologic and functional outcome.

Results. Surgical stages were IA in three cases, IB in 23, IIB in 23, and III
in two. Hemipelvectomy (H) was performed in 13 cases, internal hemipelvectomy (IH) with
endoprosthetic replacement in 17, and continuity resection (CR) in 23.Two patients received
IH and CR, one due to LR, and one due to instability. Radical or wide margins were achieved
in 27 cases, marginal margins in 16, and intralesional margins in eight. Local complication
required additional surgery in 10 cases due to local infections and/or hematomas.Two
patients died perioperatively. In 48 out of the 49 remaining patients, follow‐up
was available with a mean duration of 73.4 months (range, 4–229 months).Twenty patients
died of the disease, two patients are alive with metastases, four patients are disease free
after LR, and 22 patients show no evidence of the disease. LR occurred in 10 cases (20.4%),
and 17 patients (34.6%) developed distant metastases. Functional evaluation of the 28
survivors revealed good and excellent results in 19 cases, fair in three and poor in six.The
mean MSTS score of all survivors was 69.2%, after H it was 37.6%, after IH was 61.4%, and
after CR was 79.5%.

Conclusion. In pelvic chondrosarcoma, survival was determined by the
tumor stage and the surgical margin achieved.The incidence of LR was influenced by the
surgical margin achieved, whereas the incidence of distant metastases was influenced
by the tumor stage. The best oncologic results in chondrosarcoma involving the innominate
bone could be found in low‐grade tumors, and the best functional results after continuity
resection and restoration of the pelvic girdle.
Recurrent Episodic Foot‐Drop Following Surgery to the Thigh
Authors: Maiya Srinivas , Tan Simon , Grimer Robert J.
Published: March 2011

Subject. We present the case history of a 47‐year‐old lady who,
10 months following excision of a soft tissue sarcoma from the left thigh, was struck with
recurrent episodes of foot drop.

Discussion. The curious phenomenon of recurrent foot drop was found
to be secondary to pressure symptoms from a tense seroma of the thigh. She underwent
surgical excision of the sac and had immediate and complete relief of symptoms.
A Case of Ovarian Fibromatosis and Massive Ovarian Oedema Associated With Intra‐Abdominal Fibromatosis, Sclerosing Peritonitis and Meig’s Syndrome
Authors: Spurrell Emma L. , Yeo Yen C. , Rollason Terence P. , Judson Ian R.
Published: March 2011

Purpose:To discuss a case of ovarian fibromatosis/massive ovarian oedema, intra‐abdominal fibromatosis, sclerosing
peritonitis and Meig’s syndrome. To review the reported therapeutic options.

Patients: Case report of a 27‐year‐old female with the combined pathology of ovarian fibromatosis/massive ovarian oedema,
intra‐abdominal fibromatosis, sclerosing peritonitis and Meig’s syndrome.

Methods: This patient was treated with supportive care and cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Results: Despite the benign nature of the ovarian pathology, this patient presented with life‐threatening complications.
Response to treatment was probably multi‐factorial combining the effects of cytotoxics, use of steroids and good supportive
care. She remains in complete remission 4 years post completion of chemotherapy.

Conclusion: There are reports in the literature of ovarian fibromatosis/massive ovarian oedema, luteinised thecomas, intraabdominal
fibromatosis and Meig’s syndrome occurring together in a variety of combinations. Treatment has been described
with radiotherapy, cytotoxic and non‐cytotoxic chemotherapy regimens. This case provides a link between ovarian
fibromatosis/massive ovarian oedema, intra‐abdominal fibromatosis, sclerosing peritonitis and Meig’s syndrome not
previously described.
High‐Dose Chemotherapy Followed by Peripheral and/or Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplant in Patients With Advanced Sarcoma: Experience of a Canadian Centre
Authors: Hotte Sébastien J. , Smith Anne M. , Bramwell Vivien H.C. , Howson-Jan Kang
Published: March 2011

Purpose: Few reports have been published on the evaluation of stem cell auto transplantation for chemosensitive sarcomas.
Some suggest benefit, others do not. We present results of 24 patients with sarcoma undergoing autotransplantation at a
Canadian institution.

Patients and Methods: Twenty‐four patients were treated between 1988 and 1998: 23 were ≥18 years (median 27; range 12–56); genders were equal; 12 patients had Ewing′s sarcoma. At diagnosis, 12 (50%) had metastatic disease. Prior to
autotransplant, all had ≥1 chemotherapy regimen. Fourteen (58%) were in complete remission (CR) and seven (29%) had minimal residual disease. All received etoposide 60 mg/kg (Day –4), melphalan 140 mg/m2 on (Day –3) and a stem cell
reinfusion (Day 0).

Results: Three patients (12.5%) were alive and disease‐free with median follow‐up of 92 months (80–142); one was alive
with disease 32 months post‐autotransplant. Twenty had died (disease, 17; transplant‐related, 2; unknown, 1). Of the four alive, three had Ewing′s sarcoma, one alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, and all were in CR at transplant. Median time to relapse
was 6 months (2–59). Sixteen of 18 (89%) relapsed within 1 year. Median overall survival was 10 months (0–137). A trend towards improved survival (P=0.07) was evident for patients in CR prior to autotransplant.

Conclusions: Stem cell autotransplantation does not benefit most patients with sarcoma. A subgroup of high‐risk patients in CR may fare better and warrant further study.
The Role of Postoperative Irradiation in the Treatment of Locally Recurrent Incompletely Resected Extra‐Abdominal Desmoid Tumors
Authors: Fontanesi James , Mott Michael P. , Kraut Michael J. , Lucas David P. , Miller Peter R.
Published: March 2011

Background: To define the efficacy of postoperative irradiation in patients with recurrent extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors in whom surgical intervention has resulted in microscopically or grossly positive surgical margins.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on all patients referred to the department of radiation oncology at the Detroit Medical Center with a diagnosis of recurrent extra‐abdominal desmoid tumor. This analysis includes all patients seen from 1 January 1990 through 31 December 1999. A total of 11 patients were treated to 13 sites. Ten had microscopically positive margins and three had gross residual disease. Three patients were noted to have multifocal disease at the time of initial representation. Local control, survival, follow‐up, and subsequent development of new tumors are
measured from the last day of treatment with irradiation.

Results: Thirteen sites were treated. Seven patients had received chemotherapy/hormonal therapy prior to surgery and/or
irradiation. The most commonly used drug was tamoxifen (n=6). The type of radiation delivered included external beam irradiation alone (n=3), combined external beam irradiation and brachytherapy (n=4), brachytherapy alone (n=3) and 252‐Cf neutron brachytherapy alone (n=3). Follow‐up has ranged from 29 to 115 months (median=76 months). Three patients have failed locally at 17, 24 and 29 months. One of these was treated for gross residual disease. No patient has died of tumor‐related causes. Salvage at the failed sites was possible in twom of three with re‐irradiation using external neutrons and/or aggressive surgical intervention and systemic therapy. Complications were most often noted to include decrease range in motion, especially in joint areas, and skin reactions which were normal in presentation. In one site there was development soft tissue necrosis.

Conclusion: Based on our experience we recommend postoperative irradiation for all recurrent extra‐abdominal desmoid lesions with microscopically or grossly positive surgical margins. Furthermore, patients with recurrent desmoid tumors involving the bony structures of the hand or feet are poor candidates for brachytherapy alone. For patients with extremity lesions, brachytherapy may be a reasonable treatment option provided adequate margins around the tumor bed are covered. The continued recommended use of irradiation in this group of patients is warranted.
Reconstruction With Ipsilateral Fibula Transfer With Pasteurized Bone After Excision of Bone Sarcoma of the Tibia
Authors: Ozaki Toshifumi , Fujiwara Kazuo , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Ito Tatsuo , Kawai Akira , Inoue Hajime
Published: March 2011

We report a technique of implantation of the ipsilateral vascularized fibula with pasteurized recycled bone after excision of
tibia sarcoma in two cases. Plate and screws were used for osteosynthesis of the tibia or talus, vascularized fibula, and
pasteurized bone. Microsurgery is not necessary for this reconstruction technique. Two patients who underwent this
technique have obtained good functional results without tumor relapse 5 and 6 years after operation. The technique
produced excellent results with regard to tibial reconstruction in these cases. We found it to be simple, speedy, safe, and
a low cost technique by use of recycled bone.
A Phase II Study of Docetaxel and Epirubicin in Advanced Adult Soft Tissue Sarcomas (STS)
Authors: Kalofonos Haralabos P. , Kourousis Charalabos , Karamouzis Michalis V. , Iconomou Gregoris , Tsiata Ekaterini , Tzorzidis Fotis , Megas Panagiotis , Lambiris Elias , Georgoulias Vasilios
Published: March 2011

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of docetaxel plus epirubicin combination as first‐line
chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced and/or metastatic adult STS.

Patients and Methods: Eighteen patients were treated with epirubicin 30 mg/m2 on days 1 to 3 and docetaxel 100 mg/m2 on
day 1 every 3 weeks.

Results: Fifteen out of 18 patients (83.4%) were assessable for response. No complete response was recorded. Three (20%)
patients achieved PR, 3 had SD and 9 PD. The overall median survival was 14 months (range, 3–48 months) and the median
time to disease progression was 4 months (range, 2–45 months). Grade ≥ 3 neutropenia occurred in 88% and neutropenic
fever in 27.8% of patients. Other toxicities were mild. No treatment related deaths occurred.

Discussion: Docetaxel plus epirubicin combination achieved low response rate with severe myelotoxicity in patients with
advanced STS.
Immunohistochemical Loss of the DNA Mismatch Repair Proteins MSH2 and MSH6 in Malignant Fibrous Histiocytomas
Authors: Ericson Kajsa , Engellau Jacob , Persson Annette , Lindblom Annika , Domanski Henryk , Åkerman Måns , Nilbert Mef
Published: March 2011

Purpose: Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) account for less than 1% of all malignancies and constitute a heterogeneous tumor entity in which malignant fibrous histiocytomas (MFH) represent one‐third and are characterized by a lack of type‐specific differentiation. A defective mismatch repair (MMR) system cause the familial cancer syndrome hereditary non‐polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), and since occasional MFH have been described in HNPCC patients we assessed the contribution of defective MMR to the development of MFH.

Methods: MMR status was characterized in a series of 209 histopathologically reviewed MFH. Tissue microarray sections from the tumors were immunohistochemically stained for the MMR proteins MLH1, MSH2 and MSH6, and cases with aberrant staining were further characterized for microsatellite instability.

Results and Discussion: Two of the 209 STS–a storiform‐pleomorphic MFH and a myxofibrosarcoma–showed concomitant loss of MSH2 and MSH6, but retained staining for MLH1 on both cases. The myxoid tumor also had a microsatellite unstable phenotype. These findings, together with previous observations of defective MMR in pleomorphic STS, indicate that these tumors may be part of the HNPCC‐associated tumor spectrum and demonstrate that MMR defects occur in a small subset of STS.
A Phase II Study of Docetaxel for the Treatment of Recurrent Osteosarcoma
Authors: Mctiernan Anne , Whelan Jeremy S.
Published: March 2011

Purpose: To determine the response and toxicity of docetaxel in recurrent osteosarcoma and related spindle cell tumours of bone.

Patients and methods: Fourteen patients, 10 males and four females, were enrolled, median age 30.5 years (range, 17–46). Diagnosis was: conventional osteosarcoma, 12 patients; periosteal osteosarcoma, one patient; and malignant fibrous histiocytoma of bone, one patient. Initial chemotherapy had been with doxorubicin and cisplatin in 10 patients, and multiagent regimens in four. Nine had been treated with second line chemotherapy before receiving docetaxel. Thirteen patients had lung metastases and one intra‐abdominal disease. Docetaxel 100 mg/m2 was given as a 1‐h infusion every 3 weeks. Response was assessed every two cycles to a maximum of six.

Results: A total of 43 cycles were given, median of two per patient (range 1–6). Thirteen patients were evaluable for response. A single partial remission was seen, for a response rate of 8%. Two patients had stable disease, and one patient a mixed response. Forty cycles were evaluable for toxicity. The principle toxicity was haematological, with a median neutrophil count of 0.9 (range 0–9.6). There were four episodes of neutropenic sepsis (10%). The only non‐haematological toxicity ≥grade 3 was stomatitis, occurring in just one patient. There were no toxic deaths.

Conclusion: Docetaxel at this dose and schedule is well tolerated, but is not associated with significant activity in patients with relapsed osteosarcoma.
Diffuse Primary Angiosarcoma of the Pleura: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kurtz Jean-Emmanuel , Serra Sebastian , Duclos Brigitte , Brolly François , Dufour Patrick , Bergerat Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2011

Primary pleural angiosarcoma is an extremely rare tumor. We report the case of a patient who presented with recurrent
massive bilateral hemothoraxes. Although thoracoscopy was performed, biopsy samples of the pleura were inconclusive.
The delayed onset of skin metastases led to the diagnosis of angiosarcoma, however the patient died from pleuropulmonary
progression before treatment could be started. We review the literature of primary pleuropulmonary angiosarcoma and
discuss its treatment modalities.
Phase II Trial of Dolastatin‐10, a Novel Anti‐Tubulin Agent, in Metastatic Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: von Mehren M. , Balcerzak S. P. , Kraft A. S. , Edmonson J. H. , Okuno S. H. , Davey M. , Mclaughlin S. , Beard M. T. , Rogatko A.
Published: March 2011

Patients:Soft tissue sarcomas are uncommon malignancies with few therapeutic options for recurrent or metastatic disease.
Dolastatin‐10 (Dol‐10) is a pentapeptide anti‐microtubule agent that binds to tubulin sites distinct from vinca alkaloids.
Based on the novel mechanism of action, limited activity of other anti‐microtubular agents, and anti‐neoplastic activity in
pre‐clinical screening of Dol‐10, this multi‐institutional phase II study was conducted to determine the objective response
rate of Dol‐10 in recurrent or metastatic soft tissue sarcomas that had not been treated with chemotherapy outside of the
adjuvant setting.

Methods: Dol‐10 was given intravenously at a dose of 400 μg/m2 and repeated every 21 days. Toxicities were assessed using
the Common Toxicity Criteria (version 2.0). Radiographic studies and tumor measurements were repeated every two cycles
to assess response [Miller AB, et al. Cancer 1981; 47(1): 207].

Results: Dol‐10 was associated with hematological toxicity and with some vascular toxicities. There was no significant
gastrointestinal, hepatic or renal toxicity. There was one death on study due to respiratory failure. There were no objective
responses in 12 patients treated with Dol‐10.

Discussion: Based on this phase II trial, further study of Dol‐10 on this schedule is not recommended in advanced or
metastatic soft tissue sarcomas.
Liposarcoma of the Thyroid
Authors: Mitra A. , Fisher C. , Rhys-Evans P. , Harmer C.
Published: March 2011

Liposarcoma of the thyroid gland is rare with only 3 cases reported in the English literature. We present a further two patients
whom we have recently treated: a 49 year old lady with a myxoid liposarcoma and a 71 year old man with a pleomorphic
liposarcoma. Both underwent macroscopic excision of tumour but had positive margins, so were then treated with external
beam radiotherapy. The former patient died from metastases 10 months after presentation, the latter remains alive but has
developed metastatic disease on follow up at 24 months.

We recommend the use of high dose radiotherapy following radical surgery as margins of excision are usually narrow in
this most difficult region. The role of chemotherapy is yet to be established.
Critical Analysis on the Structural and Magnetic Properties of Bulk and Nanocrystalline Cu-Fe-O
Authors: Paul Joseph D. , Venkateswaran C. , Selva Vennila R.
Published: March 2011

Nanocrystalline and bulk samples of “Fe”-doped CuO were prepared by coprecipitation and ceramic methods. Structural and compositional analyses were performed using X-ray diffraction, SEM, and EDAX. Traces of secondary phases such as CuFe2O4, Fe3O4, andα-Fe2O3having peaks very close to that of the host CuO were identified from the Rietveld profile analysis and the SAED pattern of bulk and nanocrystalline Cu0.98Fe0.02O samples. Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) measurements show hysteresis at 300 K for all the samples. The ferrimagnetic Neel transition temperature () was found to be around 465°C irrespective of the content of “Fe”, which is close to the value of cubic CuFe2O4. High-pressure X-Ray diffraction studies were performed on 2% “Fe”-doped bulk CuO using synchrotron radiation. From the absence of any strong new peaks at high pressure, it is evident that the secondary phases if present could be less than the level of detection. Cu2O, which is diamagnetic by nature, was also doped with 1% of “Fe” and was found to show paramagnetic behavior in contrast to the “Fe” doped CuO. Hence the possibility of intrinsic magnetization of “Fe”-doped CuO apart from the secondary phases is discussed based on the magnetization and charge state of “Fe” and the host into which it is substituted.
Simulation of Monopole and Multipole Seismoelectric Logging
Authors: Cui Zhiwen , Liu Jinxia , Zhang Yujun , Wang Kexie , Hu Hengshan
Published: March 2011

In a fluid‐saturated porous formation, acoustics and electromagnetic waves are coupled based on Pride seismoelectric theory. An exact treatment of the nonaxisymmetric seismoelectric field excited by acoustic multipole sources is presented. The frequency wavenumber domain representations of the acoustic field and associated seismoelectric field due to acoustic multipole sources are formulated. The full waveforms of acoustic waves and electric and magnetic fields in the time domain propagation in borehole are simulated by using discrete wave number integration, and frequency versus axial‐wave number responses are presented and analyzed.
Adherence to Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Children with Vesicoureteral Reflux
Authors: Rodriguez Esequiel , Weiss Dana A. , Copp Hillary L.
Published: March 2011

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) affects approximately 1% of children and may predispose a child with a bladder infection to develop pyelonephritis and renal scarring. To prevent these potential sequelae, one accepted treatment option for VUR includes low-dose continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) to maintain urine sterility until the condition resolves. Despite the widespread use of CAP, little data exists regarding adherence to long-term antibiotic therapy. Not only will poor adherence to CAP potentially preclude the intended benefit, but also nonadherence with antibiotic regimens may carry untoward effects including unnecessary treatment changes for presumed antibiotic failure, emergence of resistant organisms, and compromised clinical trial outcomes. We present an overview of medication adherence in children with VUR, discuss possible consequences of nonadherence to antibiotic prophylaxis, and suggest ways to improve adherence. We raise awareness of issues related to nonadherence relevant to healthcare providers, investigators, and the community.
Technique of Peritoneal Catheter Placement under Fluroscopic Guidance
Authors: Abdel-Aal Ahmed Kamel , Gaddikeri Santhosh , Saddekni Souheil
Published: March 2011

Peritoneal catheters are mainly used for peritoneal dialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease. Other uses of this catheter include intraperitoneal chemotherapy and gene therapy for ovarian cancer and draining of uncontrolled refractory ascites in patients with liver cirrhosis. Traditionally, surgeons place most of these peritoneal catheters either by laparoscopy or open laparotomy. We detail our percutaneous approach to placing peritoneal catheters using fluoroscopic guidance. We emphasize the use of additional ultrasound guidance, including gray scale and color Doppler ultrasound, to determine the safest puncture site and to guide the initial needle puncture in order to avoid bowel perforation and injury to epigastric artery. We present our experience in placing peritoneal catheters using this technique in 95 patients with various indications. Fluoroscopic guided percutaneous placement of peritoneal catheters is a safe, minimally invasive, and effective alternative to open surgical or laparoscopic placement.
Genital HSV Detection among HIV-1-Infected Pregnant Women in Labor
Authors: Patterson Janna , Hitti Jane , Selke Stacy , Huang Meei-Li , Watts D. Heather , Brown Zane , Corey Lawrence , Wald Anna
Published: March 2011

Objective. To compare genital HSV shedding among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women.Methods. Women with and without known HIV infection who delivered at the University of Washington Medical Center between 1989–1996 had HSV serologies done as part of clinical care. Genital swabs from HSV-2-seropositive women were evaluated by real-time quantitative HSV DNA PCR.Results. HSV-2 seroprevalence was 71% and 30% among 75 HIV-positive and 3051 HIV-negative women, respectively, (P<.001). HSV was detected at delivery in the genital tract of 30.8% of HIV-seropositive versus 9.5% of HIV-negative women (RR=3.2, 95% CI 1.6 to 6.5,P=.001). The number of virion copies shed per mL was similar (log 3.54 for HIV positive versus 3.90 for HIV negative,P=.99).Conclusions. Our study demonstrated that HIV-, HSV-2-coinfected women are more likely to shed HSV at delivery.
Generalized Lefschetz Sets
Authors: Ślosarski Mirosław
Published: March 2011

We generalize and modify Lefschetz sets defined in 1976 by L. Górniewicz, which leads to more general results in fixed point theory.
BN Nanoparticles/Si3N4Wave-Transparent Composites with High Strength and Low Dielectric Constant
Authors: Zhao Dongliang , Zhang Yujun , Gong Hongyu , Zhu Baoxin , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: March 2011

Si3N4wave-transparent composites with different volume content of BN nanoparticles (BNnp/Si3N4) were prepared by gas pressure sintering at 1800°C in N2atmosphere. The effects of BN nanoparticles on the dielectric and mechanical properties of BNnp/Si3N4composites were investigated. The results showed that the addition of the BN nanoparticles improved the dielectric properties of BNnp/Si3N4composites effectively and decreased the mechanical properties. When the volume content of BN nanoparticles was 10%, the dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent were 4.31 and 0.006, respectively, and the bending strength and fracture toughness still reached 198.9 MPa and 3.36 MPa·m1/2. The high mechanical properties of BNnp/Si3N4composites with 10% BN nanoparticles were attributed to homogeneously dispersed BN nanoparticles which were embedded in the pores formed by the rod-likeβ-Si3N4.
Coxarthritis as the Presenting Symptom of Gaucher Disease Type 1
Authors: Brisca Giacomo , Di Rocco Maja , Picco Paolo , Damasio Maria Beatrice , Martini Alberto
Published: March 2011

Gaucher disease (GD) type 1 is the most common lysosomal storage disorder due to beta glucocerebrosidase deficiency leading to an abnormal accumulation of its substrate, glucocerebroside, in the mononuclear phagocyte system.
The disease presentation is usually characterized by signs and symptoms related to hypersplenism, such as splenomegaly, anaemia, thrombocytopenia and leucopenia. Skeletal disease may occur later for the infiltration of bone marrow by macrophages infiltration and bone resorption: bone involvement may be heterogeneously manifested by symptoms ranging from bone crisis to avascular necrosis, osteoporosis and defect in remodeling of long bones. Herein, we report a patient in whom the osteoarticular involvement has been the only symptom of the disease stressing that this unusual presentation of GD has prompted a wide differential diagnosis with more common forms of coxitis.
Dynamics of a Nonautonomous Leslie‐Gower Type Food Chain Model with Delays
Authors: Lu Hongying , Wang Weiguo
Published: March 2011

A nonautonomous Leslie‐Gower type food chain model with time delays is
investigated. It is proved the general nonautonomous system is permanent and
globally asymptotically stable under some appropriate conditions. Furthermore,
if the system is periodic one, some sufficient conditions are established, which
guarantee the existence, uniqueness, and global asymptotic stability of a positive
periodic solution of the system. The conditions for the permanence, global stability of system, and the existence, uniqueness of positive periodic solution depend
on delays; so, time delays are profitless.
A Randomised Controlled Single‐Blind Trial of the Efficacy of Reiki at Benefitting Mood and Well‐Being
Authors: Bowden Deborah , Goddard Lorna , Gruzelier John
Published: March 2011

This is a constructive replication of a previous trial conducted by Bowden et al. (2010), where students who had received Reiki demonstrated greater health and mood benefits than those who received no Reiki. The current study examined impact on anxiety/depression. 40 university students—half with high depression and/or anxiety and half with low depression and/or anxiety—were randomly assigned to receive Reiki or to a non‐Reiki control group. Participants experienced six 30‐minute sessions over a period of two to eight weeks, where they were blind to whether noncontact Reiki was administered as their attention was absorbed in a guided relaxation. The efficacy of the intervention was assessed pre‐post intervention and at five‐week follow‐up by self‐report measures of mood, illness symptoms, and sleep. The participants with high anxiety and/or depression who received Reiki showed a progressive improvement in overall mood, which was significantly better at five‐week follow‐up, while no change was seen in the controls. While the Reiki group did not demonstrate the comparatively greater reduction in symptoms of illness seen in our earlier study, the findings of both studies suggest that Reiki may benefit mood.
The Role of Lymph Node Fine-Needle Aspiration in Penile Cancer in the Sentinel Node Era
Authors: Mir Maria Carmen , Herdiman Olivia , Bolton Damien M. , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: March 2011

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an uncommon condition in Western countries. Inguinal lymph nodes dissection can be curative in 20%–60% of node positive patients. However, there is a high complication rates from the dissection, thus accurate diagnosis of inguinal lymph nodes metastasis is required. Current non invasive methods to detect lymph nodes metastasis are unreliable. Dynamic Sentinel Node Biopsy (DNSB), ultrasonography (US), and fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology were proposed to in an attempt to detect sentinel lymph node (SLN). Despite the initial high rate of false negative results, recent DSNB showed improved survival compared to wait and see policy as well as reduced mortality compared to prophylactic inguinal lymphadenectomy. In addition, the US guided FNA shown 100% of specificity in detecting clinically occult lymph nodes metastasis. We proposed an algorithm for management of lymph nodes in penile cancer and suggest that FNA with US guidance should be performed in all high risk patients and that therapeutic dissection should be performed if findings are positive.
Anti-IL-6 Receptor Antibody Causes Less Promotion of Tuberculosis Infection than Anti-TNF- Antibody in Mice
Authors: Okada Masaji , Kita Yoko , Kanamaru Noriko , Hashimoto Satomi , Uchiyama Yasushi , Mihara Masahiko , Inoue Yoshikazu , Ohsugi Yoshiyuki , Kishimoto Tadamitsu , Sakatani Mitsunori
Published: March 2011

Objective. Our aim was to investigate the effects of IL-6 blockade on the progression ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(TB) and compare them with those of TNF-αblockade in mice.Methods. Mice were intravenously infected with TB and injected with antibodies. Survival was monitored and histological and immunological studies were carried out.Results. All anti-IL-6R Ab-treated mice and 8 of 10 control mice survived until sacrificed 224 days after TB challenge, whereas anti-TNF-αAb-treated mice all died between 120 and 181 days. Anti-IL-6R Ab-treated mice exhibited no significant differences in TB CFU in organs, including the lungs, and no deterioration in histopathology compared to control mice at 4 weeks. In contrast, anti-TNF-αAb-treated mice exhibited increased TB CFU and greater progression of histopathological findings in organs than control mice. Spleen cells from anti-TNF-αAb-treated mice had decreased antigen-specific response in IFN-γrelease and proliferation assays. The results in anti-IL-6R Ab-treated mice suggest that spleen cell responses were decreased to a lesser degree. Similar results were obtained in IL-6 knockout (KO) mice, compared with TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) KO and TNFR1/IL-6 double KO (DKO) mice.Conclusion. IL-6R blockade promotes the progression of TB infection in mice far less than TNF-αblockade.
Issues in the Development of Location-Based Games
Authors: Jacob João Tiago Pinheiro Neto , Coelho António Fernando
Published: March 2011

As new and more powerful mobile devices arrive, such as smartphones, tablets and PDAs, so do new ways of interaction emerge for the users and developers to explore. These devices allow for the creation of never-before-seen applications, using the broad range of inputs and sensors these devices integrate (such as accelerometers, light sensors, electronic compasses, GPS sensor among others), that allow for more ubiquous and personalized experiences. This paper explores issues that arise during the development and design phases of such games, as well as posible solutions for them. Finally we present, a framework for the development of location-based games that is sensible to these issues. This framework was created and tested thanks to a proof-of-concept location-based game (Geo-Wars).
Newborn Mice Vaccination with BCG.HIVA222+ MVA.HIVA Enhances HIV-1-Specific Immune Responses: Influence of Age and Immunization Routes
Authors: Saubi Narcís , Im Eung-Jun , Fernández-Lloris Raquel , Gil Olga , Cardona Pere-Joan , Gatell Josep Maria , Hanke Tomáš , Joseph Joan
Published: March 2011

We have evaluated the influence of age and immunization routes for induction of HIV-1- andM. tuberculosis-specific immune responses after neonatal (7 days old) and adult (7 weeks old) BALB/c mice immunization with BCG.HIVA222prime and MVA.HIVA boost. The specific HIV-1 cellular immune responses were analyzed in spleen cells. The body weight of the newborn mice was weekly recorded. The frequencies of HIV-specific CD8+T cells producing IFN-γ were higher in adult mice vaccinated intradermally and lower in adult and newborn mice vaccinated subcutaneously. In all cases the IFN-γ production was significantly higher when mice were primed with BCG.HIVA222compared with BCGwt. When the HIV-specific CTL activity was assessed, the frequencies of specific killing were higher in newborn mice than in adults. The prime-boost vaccination regimen which includes BCG.HIVA222and MVA.HIVA was safe when inoculated to newborn mice. The administration of BCG.HIVA222to newborn mice is safe and immunogenic and increased the HIV-specific responses induced by MVA.HIVA vaccine. It might be a good model for infant HIV and Tuberculosis bivalent vaccine.
On Nonoscillation of Advanced Differential Equations with Several Terms
Authors: Berezansky L. , Braverman E.
Published: March 2011

Existence of positive solutions for advanced equations with several terms is investigated in the following three cases: (a) all coefficients ak are positive; (b) all coefficients ak are negative; (c) there is an equal number of positive and negative coefficients. Results on asymptotics of nonoscillatory solutions are also presented.
TheM. tuberculosisPhosphate-Binding Lipoproteins PstS1 and PstS3 Induce Th1 and Th17 Responses That Are Not Associated with Protection againstM. tuberculosisInfection
Authors: Palma Carla , Spallek Ralf , Piccaro Giovanni , Pardini Manuela , Jonas Fatima , Oehlmann Wulf , Singh Mahavir , Cassone Antonio
Published: March 2011

TheM. tuberculosisphosphate-binding transporter lipoproteins PstS1 and PstS3 were good immunogens inducing CD8+T-cell activation and both Th1 and Th17 immunity in mice. However, this antigen-specific immunity, even when amplified by administration of the protein with the adjuvant LTK63 or by the DNA priming/protein boosting regimen, was not able to containM. tuberculosisreplication in the lungs of infected mice. The lack of protection might be ascribed with the scarce/absent capacity of PstS1/PstS3 antigens to modulate the IFN-γ response elicited byM. tuberculosisinfection during which, however, PstS1-specific IL-17 secreting cells were generated in both unvaccinated and BCG-vaccinated mice. In spite of a lack of protection by PstS1/PstS3 immunizations, our results do show that PstS1 is able to induce IL-17 response uponM. tuberculosisinfection which is of interest in the study of anti-M. tuberculosisimmunity and as potential immunomodulator in combined vaccines.
Variation in Specificity of Soil-Borne Pathogens from a Plant's Native Range versus Its Nonnative Range
Authors: Reinhart Kurt O. , Van der Putten Wim H. , Tytgat Tom , Clay Keith
Published: March 2011

Existing theory for invasive nonnative species emphasizes the role of escaping specialist enemies. A useful approach is to reciprocally transplant enemies in a controlled and common experiment to quantify the interaction specificity of enemies from plant's native and nonnative ranges. Quantitative measures of interaction specificity, from two experiments with three host genotypes (Belgium, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania) and 37Pythiumisolates (10 Europe and 27 USA), revealed thatPythiumpathogens from populations ofPrunus serotinain its native range were not host genotype specific whilePythiumpathogens from its nonnative range vary with host genotype. This study provides empirical evidence suggesting thatPythiumfrom the nonnative range are either preadapted to or are actively adapting to this host. Although only for a single pathosystem, this study illustrates the importance of understanding enemy impact and host-specificity to assess whether an invader has escaped its natural enemies.
Target Therapies in Lung Cancer
Authors: Bearz A. , Berretta M. , Lleshi A. , Tirelli U.
Published: March 2011

Targeting intracellular signaling molecules is an attractive approach for treatment of malignancies. In particular lung cancer has reached a plateau regarding overall survival, and target therapies could offer the possibility to improve patients′ outcome beyond cytotoxic activity. The goal for target therapies is to identify agents that target tumor‐specific molecules, thus sparing normal tissues; those molecules are called biomarkers, and their identification is recommended because it has a predictive value, for example, provides information on outcome with regard to a specific treatment. The increased specificity should lead to decreased toxicity and better activity. Herein we provide an update of the main target therapies in development or already available for the treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer.
Experiment Centric Teaching for Reconfigurable Processors
Authors: Lagadec Loïc , Picard Damien , Corre Youenn , Lucas Pierre-Yves
Published: March 2011

This paper presents a setup for teaching configware to master students. Our approach focuses on experiment and leaning-by-doing while being supported by research activity. The central project we submit to students addresses building up a simple RISC processor, that supports an extensible instructions set thanks to its reconfigurable functional unit. The originality comes from that the students make use of the Biniou framework. Biniou is a research tool which approach covers tasks ranging from describing the RFU, synthesizing it as VHDL code, and implementing applications over it. Once done, students exhibit a deep understanding of the domain, ensuring the ability to fast adapt to state-of-the-art techniques.
Novel Human Single Chain Antibody Fragments That Are Rapidly Internalizing Effectively Target Epithelioid and Sarcomatoid Mesotheliomas
Authors: Iyer Arun K. , Lan Xiaoli , Zhu Xiaodong , Su Yang , Feng Jinjin , Zhang Xiaoju , Gao Dongwei , Seo Youngho , VanBrocklin Henry F. , Broaddus V. Courtney , Liu Bin , He Jiang
Published: March 2011

Human antibodies targeting all subtypes of mesothelioma could be useful to image and treat this deadly disease. Here we report tumor targeting of a novel internalizing human single chain antibody fragment (scFv) labeled with 99mTc (99mTc-M40) in murine models of mesothelioma of both epithelioid (M28) and sarcomatoid (VAMT-1) origins. 99mTc-M40 was taken up rapidly and specifically by both subtype tumor cells in vitro, with 68% to 92% internalized within 1 hour. The specificity of binding was evidenced by blocking (up to 95%) with 10-fold excess of unlabeled M40. In animal studies, tumors of both subtypes were clearly visualized by SPECT/CT as early as 1 hour postinjection of 99mTc-M40. Tumor uptake measured as percent of injected dose per gram tissue (%ID/g) at 3 hours was 4.38 and 5.84 for M28 and VAMT-1 tumors, respectively, significantly greater than all organs or tissues studied (liver, 2.62%ID/g; other organs or tissues <1.7%ID/g), except the kidneys (130.7%ID/g), giving tumor-to-blood ratios of 5:1 and 7:1 and tumor-to-muscle ratios of 45:1 and 60:1, for M28 and VAMT-1, respectively. The target-mediated uptake was confirmed by a nearly 70% reduction in tumor activity following administration of 10-fold excess of unlabeled scFv. Taken together, these results indicate that M40 can rapidly and specifically target epithelioid and sarcomatoid tumor cells, demonstrating the potential of this agent as a versatile targeting ligand for imaging and therapy of all subtypes of mesothelioma. Cancer Res; 71(7); 2428–32. ©2011 AACR.
Prevalence of Candida dubliniensis among Oral Candida Isolates in Patients Attending the Kuwait University Dental Clinic
Authors: Ellepola Arjuna N.B. , Khan Zia U. , Joseph Bobby , Chandy Rachel , Philip Leeba
Published: March 2011

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the oral candidal carriage of patients seeking dental treatment at the Kuwait University Dental Clinic and to ascertain the Candida species composition among them. Methods: 370 oral rinse samples were collected from patients. The germ tube test, CHROMagar Candida medium and VITEK 2 yeast identification system were used for species identification. C. dubliniensis isolates were confirmed by the production of rough colonies with hyphal fringes and chlamydospores on simplified sunflower seed agar. Results: Of the 370 samples investigated, 160 (43.24%) showed Candida in culture. The isolation of Candida was significantly higher in individuals who were smokers or were under medication for either diabetics or asthma [99 (62%)] compared to healthy individuals [61 (38%)]. Of the 210 samples which did not yield Candida, 131 (62.38%) were healthy and 79 (37.62%) were associated with smoking or with usage of drugs for aforementioned conditions. Species isolated were C. albicans [102 (63.7%)], C. dubliniensis [23(14.3%)], C. krusei [13 (8.1%)], C. tropicalis [12 (7.5%)] and C. glabrata [10 (6.2%)]. Conclusions:Candida species were more prevalent in patients having predisposing factors implicated in oral candidosis, such as in smokers, diabetic patients and asthmatic patients using inhalation steroids. C. albicans was the most prevalent species isolated, followed by C. dubliniensis.