scholarly journals A Rare Case of Severe Copper Deficiency in an Infant with Exclusive Breast Feeding Mimicking Myelodysplastic Syndrome

2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 62-68
Author(s):  
Samah Kohla ◽  
Elrazi Ali ◽  
Aliaa Amer ◽  
Tayseer Yousif ◽  
Mohamed A. Yassin
Keyword(s):  
Copper Deficiency ◽  
Bone Marrow Aspirate ◽  
Serum Copper ◽  
Refractory Anemia ◽  
Flow Cytometry Analysis ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Sideroblastic Anemia ◽  
Cytoplasmic Vacuolization ◽  
Probable Role

An 11-month-old full-term female infant was referred to the hematology clinic due to marked anemia and neutropenia. She was almost exclusively breastfed and rejecting all trials for supplementary food including artificial formulas. Bone marrow aspirate revealed cytoplasmic vacuolization in precursors of the myeloid and erythroid series with significant dysgranulopoiesis and dyserythropoiesis and ringed sideroblasts. Flow cytometry analysis revealed increased hematogones with aberrant loss/downregulation of CD33 on granulocytes and monocytes (sign of dysmyelopoiesis). Laboratory investigation revealed low serum copper and ceruloplasmin. Administration of a multivitamin including a high concentration of copper for only 1 week improved her hemoglobin and absolute neutrophil count up to 1.9 × 103/µL, then dropped to 0.3 103/µL after she stopped taking the copper multivitamin. Her blood counts improved till total normalization and up to the time this report is issued. The probable role of unrecognized copper deficiency in causing anemia in infants more than 6 months of age is discussed, and the importance of serum copper examination in refractory anemia and neutropenia is emphasized. This case shows that copper deficiency should be an integral part of the differential diagnosis of refractory anemia including sideroblastic anemia and dysplasia. To the best of our knowledge, no such case has previously been described in the literature.

A Probable Role of Eosinophilia, IgE and Complement in Bullous Pemphigoid Patients

1975 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. 532-540 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zenro IKEZAWA ◽  
Yo KAMEDA ◽  
Mitsuaki UCHIYAMA ◽  
Hiroshi NAKAJIMA ◽  
Toru BABA
Keyword(s):  
Bullous Pemphigoid ◽  
Probable Role

Effect of High Salt Concentration on Ion Clustering and Transport in Polymer Solid Electrolytes: a Molecular Dynamics Study of PEO-LiTFSI

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicola Molinari ◽  
Jonathan P. Mailoa ◽  
Boris Kozinsky
Keyword(s):  
Polymer Electrolyte ◽  
Salt Concentration ◽  
Rational Design ◽  
Material System ◽  
Ion Dynamics ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Anion Clusters ◽  
Poly Ethylene Oxide ◽  
Poly Ethylene

<div> <div> <div> <p>The model and analysis methods developed in this work are generally applicable to any polymer electrolyte/cation-anion combination, but we focus on the currently most prominent polymer electrolyte material system: poly(ethylene) oxide/Li- bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide (PEO + LiTFSI). The obtained results are surprising and challenge the conventional understanding of ionic transport in polymer electrolytes: the investigation of a technologically relevant salt concentration range (1 - 4 M) revealed the central role of the anion in coordinating and hindering Li ion movement. Our results provide insights into correlated ion dynamics, at the same time enabling rational design of better PEO-based electrolytes. In particular, we report the following novel observations. 1. Strong binding of the Li cation with the polymer competes with significant correlation of the cation with the salt anion. 2. The appearance of cation-anion clusters, especially at high concentration. 3. The asymmetry in the composition (and therefore charge) of such clusters; specifically, we find the tendency for clusters to have a higher number of anions than cations.</p> </div> </div> </div>

Effect of High Salt Concentration on Ion Clustering and Transport in Polymer Solid Electrolytes: a Molecular Dynamics Study of PEO-LiTFSI

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicola Molinari ◽  
Jonathan P. Mailoa ◽  
Boris Kozinsky
Keyword(s):  
Polymer Electrolyte ◽  
Salt Concentration ◽  
Rational Design ◽  
Material System ◽  
Ion Dynamics ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Anion Clusters ◽  
Poly Ethylene Oxide ◽  
Poly Ethylene

<div> <div> <div> <p>The model and analysis methods developed in this work are generally applicable to any polymer electrolyte/cation-anion combination, but we focus on the currently most prominent polymer electrolyte material system: poly(ethylene) oxide/Li- bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide (PEO + LiTFSI). The obtained results are surprising and challenge the conventional understanding of ionic transport in polymer electrolytes: the investigation of a technologically relevant salt concentration range (1 - 4 M) revealed the central role of the anion in coordinating and hindering Li ion movement. Our results provide insights into correlated ion dynamics, at the same time enabling rational design of better PEO-based electrolytes. In particular, we report the following novel observations. 1. Strong binding of the Li cation with the polymer competes with significant correlation of the cation with the salt anion. 2. The appearance of cation-anion clusters, especially at high concentration. 3. The asymmetry in the composition (and therefore charge) of such clusters; specifically, we find the tendency for clusters to have a higher number of anions than cations.</p> </div> </div> </div>

scholarly journals Focused ultrasound in neuro-oncology: the role of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation in driving adoption and innovation

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily C. Whipple ◽  
Camille A. Favero ◽  
Neal F. Kassell
Keyword(s):  
Drug Delivery ◽  
Brain Tumors ◽  
Focused Ultrasound ◽  
Clinical Evidence ◽  
Neurological Injury ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Potential Applications ◽  
Tumor Agent

Abstract Introduction Intra-arterial (lA) delivery of therapeutic agents across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an evolving strategy which enables the distribution of high concentration therapeutics through a targeted vascular territory, while potentially limiting systemic toxicity. Studies have demonstrated lA methods to be safe and efficacious for a variety of therapeutics. However, further characterization of the clinical efficacy of lA therapy for the treatment of brain tumors and refinement of its potential applications are necessary. Methods We have reviewed the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting superselective intraarterial cerebral infusion (SSJACI) with BBB disruption for the treatment of brain tumors. In addition, we review ongoing clinical trials expanding the applicability and investigating the efficacy of lA therapy for the treatment of brain tumors. Results Trends in recent studies have embraced the use of SSIACI and less neurotoxic chemotherapies. The majority of trials continue to use mannitol as the preferred method of hyperosmolar BBB disruption. Recent preclinical and preliminary human investigations into the lA delivery of Bevacizumab have demonstrated its safety and efficacy as an anti-tumor agent both alone and in combination with chemotherapy. Conclusion lA drug delivery may significantly affect the way treatment are delivered to patients with brain tumors, and in particular GBM. With refinement and standardization of the techniques of lA drug delivery, improved drug selection and formulations, and the development of methods to minimize treatment-related neurological injury, lA therapy may offer significant benefits for the treatment of brain tumors.

scholarly journals I Like the Way You Eat It: Lemur (Indri indri) Gut Mycobiome and Geophagy

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luigimaria Borruso ◽  
Alice Checcucci ◽  
Valeria Torti ◽  
Federico Correa ◽  
Camillo Sandri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plant Material ◽  
Soil Characteristics ◽  
Nutrient Supply ◽  
Fungal Species ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Beneficial Role ◽  
Intimate Connection ◽  
Indri Indri ◽  
Lemur Species

AbstractHere, we investigated the possible linkages among geophagy, soil characteristics, and gut mycobiome of indri (Indri indri), an endangered lemur species able to survive only in wild conditions. The soil eaten by indri resulted in enriched secondary oxide-hydroxides and clays, together with a high concentration of specific essential micronutrients. This could partially explain the role of the soil in detoxification and as a nutrient supply. Besides, we found that soil subject to geophagy and indris’ faeces shared about 8.9% of the fungal OTUs. Also, several genera (e.g. Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium) commonly associated with soil and plant material were found in both geophagic soil and indri samples. On the contrary, some taxa with pathogenic potentials, such as Cryptococcus, were only found in indri samples. Further, many saprotrophs and plant-associated fungal taxa were detected in the indri faeces. These fungal species may be involved in the digestion processes of leaves and could have a beneficial role in their health. In conclusion, we found an intimate connection between gut mycobiome and soil, highlighting, once again, the potential consequent impacts on the wider habitat.

scholarly journals Probable role of Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) in lung hypertension secondary to scleroderma

2013 ◽  
pp. 23-25
Author(s):  
P. Faggioli ◽  
S. Finazzi ◽  
E. Vicenzi ◽  
L. Giani ◽  
M. Rondena ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Hypertension ◽  
Progressive Systemic Sclerosis ◽  
New Drugs ◽  
Positivity Ratio ◽  
Probable Role ◽  
Biochemical Observation ◽  
And Gender ◽  
Roche Diagnostics ◽  
Worse Prognosis

BACKGROUND Scleroderma, when complicated with pulmonary hypertension (PHT), presents a worse prognosis; recently treatment with new drugs seems to offer good perspectives, especially in early diagnosis and treatment. The standard approach for diagnosing PHT consists in measurement of the pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) by means of echodoppler. AIM OF INVESTIGATION Aim of this work is evaluating the significance of the NT-proBNP parameter, matched to echodoppler, in diagnosing scleroderma PHT. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty (60) patients, who came to observation for progressive systemic sclerosis underwent echodoppler in order to measure the PAP (normal values up to 30 mmHg). NT-proBNP was determined on serum sample using ECLIA method by Modular E170 (Roche Diagnostics); manufacturer reference values for age and gender were used. Forty-three (43) patients underwent a further NT-proBNP sampling 5 days later in order to assess parameter stability. RESULTS PHT and non- PHT patients showed statistically different (p < 0,001) medians (126 vs 69 pg/ml). No pathologic values of NT-proBNP were measured in the group with PAP < 30 mmHg, while 27% of cases who had PAP between 30 and 40 showed pathologic concentrations. The positivity ratio increases to 57% in patients showing PAP > 40 mmHg. No relevant correlation (r = 0,2) was found between PAP and NT-proBNP. Mean average between the two sampling groups was 31%. CONCLUSIONS In scleroderma patients, combination of NT-proBNP and PAP seems to improve the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension, especially in presence of borderline pulmonary pressure values. We therefore propose the biochemical observation of NT-proBNP when PAP is > 30 mmHg and in monitoring the evolution of the pathology.

Chemistry of oxylipin pathways in marine diatoms

2007 ◽  
Vol 79 (4) ◽  
pp. 481-490 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angelo Fontana ◽  
Giuliana d'Ippolito ◽  
Adele Cutignano ◽  
Antonio Miralto ◽  
Adrianna Ianora ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Higher Plants ◽  
Larval Growth ◽  
Marine Macroalgae ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Marine Diatoms ◽  
Fatty Acid Derivatives ◽  
The Family ◽  
Hydrolysis Of ◽  
Catalyzed Oxidation

Oxylipins are important signal transduction molecules widely distributed in animals and plants where they regulate a variety of events associated with physiological and pathological processes. The family embraces several different metabolites that share a common origin from the oxygenase-catalyzed oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The biological role of these compounds has been especially studied in mammalians and higher plants, although a varied and very high concentration of these products has also been reported from marine macroalgae. This article gives a summary of our results concerning the oxylipin chemistry of marine diatoms, a major class of planktonic microalgae that discourage predation from their natural grazers, zooplanktonic copepods, using chemical warfare. These apparently harmless microscopic cells produce a plethora of oxylipins, including short-chain unsaturated aldehydes, hydroxyl-, keto-, and epoxyhydroxy fatty acid derivatives, that induce reproductive failure in copepods through abortions, congenital malformations, and reduced larval growth. The biochemical process involved in the production of these compounds shows a simple regulation based on decompartmentation and mixing of preexisting enzymes and requires hydrolysis of chloroplast-derived glycolipids to feed the downstream activities of C16 and C20 lipoxygenases.

scholarly journals A New MAP Kinase Protein Involved in Estradiol-Stimulated Reproduction of the Helminth ParasiteTaenia crassiceps

2010 ◽  
Vol 2010 ◽  
pp. 1-11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Galileo Escobedo ◽  
Gloria Soldevila ◽  
Guadalupe Ortega-Pierres ◽  
Jesús Ramsés Chávez-Ríos ◽  
Karen Nava ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Flow Cytometry ◽  
Map Kinases ◽  
Host Cells ◽  
Cross Contamination ◽  
Flow Cytometry Analysis ◽  
Cellular Processes ◽  
17Β Estradiol ◽  
Activation Motif

MAP kinases (MAPK) are involved in the regulation of cellular processes such as reproduction and growth. In parasites, the role of MAPK has been scarcely studied. Here, we describe the participation of an ERK-like protein in estrogen-dependent reproduction of the helminth parasiteTaenia crassiceps. Our results show that 17β-estradiol induces a concentration-dependent increase in the bud number of in vitro cultured cysticerci. If parasites are also incubated in presence of an ERK-inhibitor, the stimulatory effect of estrogen is blocked. The expression of ERK-like mRNA and its corresponding protein was detected in the parasite. The ERK-like protein was over-expressed by all treatments. Nevertheless, a strong induction of phosphorylation of this protein was observed only in response to 17β-estradiol. Cross-contamination by host cells was discarded by flow cytometry analysis. Parasite cells expressing the ERK-like protein were exclusively located at the subtegument tissue by confocal microscopy. Finally, the ERK-like protein was separated by bidimensional electrophoresis and then sequenced, showing the conserved TEY activation motif, typical of all known ERK 1/2 proteins. Our results show that an ERK-like protein is involved in the molecular signalling during the interaction between the host andT. crassiceps, and may be considered as target for anti-helminth drugs design.

Copper Deficiency with Cow's Milk Diet

PEDIATRICS ◽  
1981 ◽  
Vol 68 (3) ◽  
pp. 397-400
Author(s):  
Yehezkel Naveh ◽  
Anna Hazani ◽  
Moshe Berant
Keyword(s):  
Serum Iron ◽  
Copper Deficiency ◽  
Iron Concentration ◽  
Bone Age ◽  
Serum Copper ◽  
Term Infant ◽  
Deficiency Anemia ◽  
Cow’S Milk ◽  
Cow's Milk ◽  
Iron Folic Acid

A 6-month-old full-term infant had severe anemia and neutropenia. The patient was being fed cow's milk and a diet of corn flour. Thorough investigation revealed low serum iron concentration, severe hypocupremia, low ceruloplasmin, retardation of bone age, and metaphysial irregularities and spurring. Bone marrow aspirate revealed cytoplasmic vacuolization in precursors of the erythroid and myeloid series and ringed sideroblasts. Therapy with oral iron, folic acid, and vitamin C was futile. Administration of copper sulfate resulted in brisk increase in neutrophils and reticulocytes. The child maintained normal levels of hemoglobin, neutrophils, serum copper and ceruloplasmin, and serum iron one year after copper therapy was discontinued. The probable role of unrecognized copper deficiency in causing anemia in infants more than 6 months of age is discussed, and the importance of serum copper examination in refractory iron deficiency anemia and neutropenia is stressed. To the best of our knowledge, no such case has previously been described in the literature.

scholarly journals Spinal Tolerance and Dependence: Some Observations on the Role of SpinalN-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors and Phosphorylation in the Loss of Opioid Analgesic Responses

2000 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-39
Author(s):  
Tony L Yaksh ◽  
Xiao-Ying Hua
Keyword(s):  
Nmda Receptor ◽  
Opioid Analgesic ◽  
Dose Effect ◽  
Concurrent Treatment ◽  
Analgesic Effects ◽  
Delta Opioids ◽  
Probable Role ◽  
Pkc Isozymes ◽  
The Right

The continuous delivery of opiates can lead to a reduction in analgesic effects. In humans, as in other animals, some component of this change in sensitivity seems likely to have a strong pharmacodynamic component. Such loss of effect, deemed to be tolerance in the present article, can be readily demonstrated in animals with repeated bolus and continuous intrathecal infusion of mu and delta opioids and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Research has shown that this loss of effect can be diminished by concurrent treatment withN-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists and by the suppression of the activity of spinal protein kinase C (PKC). This suggests in part the probable role of PKC-mediated phosphorylation in the right shift in the dose-effect curves observed with continuous opiate or adrenergic exposure. Importantly, this right shift is seen to occur in parallel with an increase in the phosphorylating activity in the dorsal horn and in the expression of several PKC isozymes. The target of this phosphorylation is not certain. Phosphorylation of the NMDA receptor enhances its functionality, while phosphorylation of the opioid receptor or associated channels seems to diminish their activity or to enhance internalization. While the focus is on several specific components, the accumulating data emphasize the biological complexity of these changes in spinal drug reactivity.

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