bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint Relay Ordering and Linear Finite Field Network Coding for Multiple-Source Multiple-Relay Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Cheng Yulun , Yang Longxiang
Published: October 2013

Network coding (NC) is significant for the spectral efficiency promotion of the multiple-source multiple-relay wireless sensor networks (WSNs). However, the existing scheme ignored further exploitation of the communications between relays. To address this issue, a relay ordering algorithm based on finite field NC (FFNC) is proposed in this paper. In the scheme, the relays who initially fail to decode from sources are kept listening and searching for the opportunity to decode the signals from other relays, so as to recover the failure links. The outage probability of the scheme and the corresponding lower bound are theoretically deduced under two-source two-relay assumption. Moreover, the scheme is proved to own the merit of diffusion effect, which makes the diversity improvement more efficient by simply increasing the relay number in the network. Simulation results correspond well with the analysis and demonstrate that the proposed scheme always outperforms FFNC in outage behavior and attains more opportunities to supply full diversity for the network. Moreover, it shows that the diffusion effect enables this scheme to be very suitable for the multiple-relay WSN.
First-Order ARMA Type Fuzzy Time Series Method Based on Fuzzy Logic Relation Tables
Authors: Kocak Cem
Published: October 2013

Fuzzy time series approaches have an important deficiency according to classical time series approaches. This deficiency comes from the fact that all of the fuzzy time series models developed in the literature use autoregressive (AR) variables, without any studies that also make use of moving averages (MAs) variables with the exception of only one study (Egrioglu et al. (2013)). In order to eliminate this deficiency, it is necessary to have many of daily life time series be expressed with Autoregressive Moving Averages (ARMAs) models that are based not only on the lagged values of the time series (AR variables) but also on the lagged values of the error series (MA variables). To that end, a new first-order fuzzy ARMA(1,1) time series forecasting method solution algorithm based on fuzzy logic group relation tables has been developed. The new method proposed has been compared against some methods in the literature by applying them on Istanbul Stock Exchange national 100 index (IMKB) and Gold Prices time series in regards to forecasting performance.
Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped ZnS with Camellia Brushfield Yellow Nanostructures for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Lee Gang-Juan , Hong Chi-Lun , Batalova Valentina , Mokrousov Gennady , Wu Jerry
Published: October 2013

Nitrogen modified zinc sulfide photocatalysts were successfully prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and surface area analysis. Thermal decomposition of the semisolid was carried out under nitrogen conditions at 500°C for 2 hours, and a series of nitrogen-doped ZnS photocatalysts were produced by controlling inflow flow rate of nitrogen at 15–140 mL/min. Optical characterizations of the synthesized N-doping ZnS substantially show the shifted photoabsorption properties from ultraviolet (UV) region to visible light. The band gaps of nitrogen-doped ZnS composite catalysts were calculated to be in the range of 2.58~2.74 eV from the absorptions edge position. The 15N/ZnS catalyst shows the highest photocatalytic activity, which results in 75.7% degradation of Orange II dye in 5 hrs by visible light irradiation, compared with pristine ZnS and higher percentage N-doping ZnS photocatalysts.
Diagnosing Snapping Sartorius Tendon Secondary to a Meniscal Cyst Using Dynamic Ultrasound Avoids Incorrect Surgical Procedure
Authors: Asopa Vipin , Douglas Robert J. , Heysen Jonathan , Martin David
Published: October 2013

We describe a case of painful snapping in the medial aspect of the knee of a 40-year-old man, following a knee hyperflexion injury. Dynamic real-time ultrasonography determined that the snapping was due to the distal tendon of sartorius passing over a medial meniscal cyst. The patient subsequently underwent arthroscopic decompression of the cyst instead of an inappropriate hamstring tendon harvest procedure, with complete resolution of symptoms.
Glutamine/Glutamate Metabolism Studied with Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging for the Characterization of Adrenal Nodules and Masses
Authors: Goldman Suzan M. , Nunes Thiago F. , Melo Homero J. F. , Dalavia Claudio , Szejnfeld Denis , Kater Claudio , Andreoni Cassio , Szejnfeld Jacob , Ajzen Sergio A.
Published: October 2013

Purpose. To assess glutamine/glutamate (Glx) and lactate (Lac) metabolism using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H-MRS) in order to differentiate between adrenal gland nodules and masses (adenomas, pheochromocytomas, carcinomas, and metastases).Materials and Methods. Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained. A total of 130 patients (47 men) with 132 adrenal nodules/masses were prospectively assessed ( years). A multivoxel system was used with a two-dimensional point-resolved spectroscopy/chemical-shift imaging sequence. Spectroscopic data were interpreted by visual inspection and peak amplitudes of lipids (Lip), choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), Lac, and Glx. Lac/Cr and Glx/Cr were calculated. Glx/Cr was assessed in relation to lesion size.Results. Statistically significant differences were observed in Glx/Cr results between adenomas and pheochromocytomas (), however, with a low positive predictive value (PPV). Glx levels were directly proportional to lesion size in carcinomas. A cutoff point of 1.44 was established for the differentiation between carcinomas larger versus smaller than 4 cm, with 75% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, and 80% accuracy. Lac/Cr results showed no differences across lesions. A cutoff point of −6.5 for Lac/Cr was established for carcinoma diagnosis.Conclusion. Glx levels are directly proportional to lesion size in carcinomas. A cutoff point of −6.5 Lac/Cr differentiates carcinomas from noncarcinomas.
Characteristics of Clinical Shiga Toxin-ProducingEscherichia coliIsolated from British Columbia
Authors: Allen Kevin J. , Laing Chad R. , Cancarevic Ana , Zhang Yongxiang , Mesak Lili R. , Xu Hai , Paccagnella Ana , Gannon Victor P. J. , Hoang Linda
Published: October 2013

Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coli(STEC) are significant public health threats. Although STEC O157 are recognized foodborne pathogens, non-O157 STEC are also important causes of human disease. We characterized 10 O157:H7 and 15 non-O157 clinical STEC derived from British Columbia (BC).Eae, hlyA,andstxwere more frequently observed in STEC O157, and 80 and 100% of isolates possessedstx1andstx2, respectively. In contrast,stx1andstx2occurred in 80 and 40% of non-O157 STEC, respectively. Comparative genomic fingerprinting (CGF) revealed three distinct clusters (C). STEC O157 was identified as lineage I (LI; LSPA-6 111111) and clustered as a single group (C1). Thecdigene previously observed only in LII was seen in two LI O157 isolates. CGF C2 strains consisted of diverse non-O157 STEC while C3 included only O103:H25, O118, and O165 serogroup isolates. With the exception of O121 and O165 isolates which were similar in virulence gene complement to STEC O157, C1 O157 STEC produced more Stx2 than non-O157 STEC. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) screening revealed resistance or reduced sensitivity in all strains, with higher levels occurring in non-O157 STEC. One STEC O157 isolate possessed a mobileblaCMY-2gene transferrable across genre via conjugation.
Existence of Solution for Impulsive Differential Equations with Nonlinear Derivative Dependence via Variational Methods
Authors: Yan Lizhao , Liu Jian , Luo Zhiguo
Published: October 2013

We use variational methods and iterative methods to investigate the solutions of impulsive differential equations with nonlinear derivative dependence. The conditions for the existence of solutions are established. The main results are also demonstrated with examples.
Microbial Purification of Postfermentation Medium after 1,3-PD Production from Raw Glycerol
Authors: Szymanowska-Powałowska Daria , Piątkowska Joanna , Leja Katarzyna
Published: October 2013

1,3-Propanediol (1,3-PD) is an important chemical product which can be used to produce polyesters, polyether, and polyurethanes. In the process of conversion of glycerol to 1,3-PD byClostridiumlarge number of byproducts (butyric, acetic and lactic acid) are generated in the fermentation medium. The aim of this work was to isolate bacteria strains capable of the utilization of these byproducts. Screening of 30 bacterial strains was performed using organic acids as carbon source. Selected isolates were taxonomically characterized and identified asAlcaligenes faecalisandBacillus licheniformis. The most active strains,Alcaligenes faecalisJP1 andBacillus licheniformisJP19, were able to utilize organic acids almost totally. Finally, it was find out that by the use of coculture (C. butyricumDSP1 andA. faecalisJP1) increased volumetric productivity of 1,3-PD production (1.07 g/L/h) and the yield equal to 0.53 g/g were obtained in bioreactor fermentation. Moreover, the only by-product present was butyric acid in a concentration below 1 g/L.
Crizotinib Inhibits Metabolic Inactivation of Gemcitabine in c-Met–driven Pancreatic Carcinoma
Authors: Avan Amir , Caretti Viola , Funel Niccola , Galvani Elena , Maftouh Mina , Honeywell Richard J. , Lagerweij Tonny , Van Tellingen Olaf , Campani Daniela , Fuchs Dieter , Verheul Henk M. , Schuurhuis Gerrit-Jan , Boggi Ugo , Peters Godefridus J. , Würdinger Thomas , Giovannetti Elisa
Published: October 2013

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a major unsolved health problem. Most drugs that pass preclinical tests fail in these patients, emphasizing the need of improved preclinical models to test novel anticancer strategies. Here, we developed four orthotopic mouse models using primary human PDAC cells genetically engineered to express firefly- and Gaussia luciferase, simplifying the ability to monitor tumor growth and metastasis longitudinally in individual animals with MRI and high-frequency ultrasound. In these models, we conducted detailed histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses on paraffin-embedded pancreatic tissues and metastatic lesions in liver, lungs, and lymph nodes. Genetic characteristics were compared with the originator tumor and primary tumor cells using array-based comparative genomic hybridization, using frozen specimens obtained by laser microdissection. Notably, the orthotopic human xenografts in these models recapitulated the phenotype of human PDACs, including hypovascular and hypoxic areas. Pursuing genomic and immunohistochemical evidence revealed an increased copy number and overexpression of c-Met in one of the models; we examined the preclinical efficacy of c-Met inhibitors in vitro and in vivo. In particular, we found that crizotinib decreased tumor dimension, prolonged survival, and increased blood and tissue concentrations of gemcitabine, synergizing with a cytidine deaminase–mediated mechanism of action. Together, these more readily imaged orthotopic PDAC models displayed genetic, histopathologic, and metastatic features similar to their human tumors of origin. Moreover, their use pointed to c-Met as a candidate therapeutic target in PDAC and highlighted crizotinib and gemcitabine as a synergistic combination of drugs warranting clinical evaluation for PDAC treatment. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6745–56. ©2013 AACR.
Enhancement of Antitumor Immunity in Lung Cancer by Targeting Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Pathways
Authors: Sawant Anandi , Schafer Cara C. , Jin Tong Huan , Zmijewski Jaroslaw , Tse Hubert M. , Roth Justin , Sun Zhihuan , Siegal Gene P. , Thannickal Victor J. , Grant Stefan C. , Ponnazhagan Selvarangan , Deshane Jessy S.
Published: October 2013

Chemoresistance due to heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) hampers the long-term efficacy of first-line therapies for lung cancer. Current combination therapies for lung cancer provide only modest improvement in survival, implicating necessity for novel approaches that suppress malignant growth and stimulate long-term antitumor immunity. Oxidative stress in the TME promotes immunosuppression by tumor-infiltrating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), which inhibit host protective antitumor immunity. Using a murine model of lung cancer, we demonstrate that a combination treatment with gemcitabine and a superoxide dismutase mimetic targets immunosuppressive MDSC in the TME and enhances the quantity and quality of both effector and memory CD8+ T-cell responses. At the effector cell function level, the unique combination therapy targeting MDSC and redox signaling greatly enhanced cytolytic CD8+ T-cell response and further decreased regulatory T cell infiltration. For long-term antitumor effects, this therapy altered the metabolism of memory cells with self-renewing phenotype and provided a preferential advantage for survival of memory subsets with long-term efficacy and persistence. Adoptive transfer of memory cells from this combination therapy prolonged survival of tumor-bearing recipients. Furthermore, the adoptively transferred memory cells responded to tumor rechallenge exerting long-term persistence. This approach offers a new paradigm to inhibit immunosuppression by direct targeting of MDSC function, to generate effector and persistent memory cells for tumor eradication, and to prevent lung cancer relapse. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6609–20. ©2013 AACR.
Loss of PTEN Is Associated with Aggressive Behavior in ERG-Positive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Leinonen Katri A. , Saramäki Outi R. , Furusato Bungo , Kimura Takahiro , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Egawa Shin , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Keiger Kerri , Ho Hahm Sung , Isaacs William B. , Tolonen Teemu T. , Stenman Ulf-Håkan , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Nykter Matti , Bova G. Steven , Visakorpi Tapio
Published: October 2013

Background: The associations of ERG overexpression with clinical behavior and molecular pathways of prostate cancer are incompletely known. We assessed the association of ERG expression with AR, PTEN, SPINK1, Ki-67, and EZH2 expression levels, deletion, and mutations of chromosomal region 3p14 and TP53, and clinicopathologic variables.

Methods: The material consisted of 326 prostatectomies, 166 needle biopsies from men treated primarily with endocrine therapy, 177 transurethral resections of castration-resistant prostate cancers (CRPC), and 114 CRPC metastases obtained from 32 men. Immunohistochemistry, FISH, and sequencing was used for the measurements.

Results: ERG expression was found in about 45% of all patient cohorts. In a multivariate analysis, ERG expression showed independent value of favorable prognosis (P = 0.019). ERG positivity was significantly associated with loss of PTEN expression in prostatectomy (P = 0.0348), and locally recurrent CRPCs (P = 0.0042). Loss of PTEN expression was associated (P = 0.0085) with shorter progression-free survival in ERG-positive, but not in negative cases. When metastases in each subject were compared, consistent ERG, PTEN, and AR expression as well as TP53 mutations were found in a majority of subjects.

Conclusions: A similar frequency of ERG positivity from early to late stage of the disease suggests lack of selection of ERG expression during disease progression. The prognostic significance of PTEN loss solely in ERG-positive cases indicates interaction of these pathways. The finding of consistent genetic alterations in different metastases suggests that the major genetic alterations take place in the primary tumor.

Impact: Interaction of PTEN and ERG pathways warrants further studies. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(12); 2333–44. ©2013 AACR.
Germline Variants and Advanced Colorectal Adenomas: Adenoma Prevention with Celecoxib Trial Genome-wide Association Study
Authors: Wang Jiping , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G. , Chu Jen-Hwa , Zauber Ann G. ,   APC Trial Collaborators, Kubo Michikai , Matsuda Koichi , Dunlop Malcolm , Houlston Richard S. , Sieber Oliver , Lipton Lara , Gibbs Peter , Martin Nicholas G. , Montgomery Grant W. , Young Joanne , Baird Paul N. , Ratain Mark J. , Nakamura Yusuke , Weiss Scott T. , Tomlinson Ian , Bertagnolli Monica M.
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with development of advanced colorectal adenomas.

Experimental Design: Discovery phase: 1,406 Caucasian patients (139 advanced adenoma cases and 1,267 controls) from the Adenoma Prevention with Celecoxib (APC) trial were included in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify variants associated with postpolypectomy disease recurrence. Genome-wide significance was defined as false discovery rate less than 0.05, unadjusted P = 7.4 × 10−7. Validation phase: results were further evaluated using 4,175 familial colorectal adenoma cases and 5,036 controls from patients of European ancestry [COloRectal Gene Identification consortium (CORGI), Scotland, Australia, and VQ58].

Results: Our study identified eight SNPs associated with advanced-adenoma risk in the APC trial (rs2837156, rs7278863, rs2837237, rs2837241, rs2837254, rs741864 at 21q22.2, and rs1381392 and rs17651822 at 3p24.1, at P < 10−7 level with OR > 2). Five variants in strong pairwise linkage disequilibrium (rs7278863, rs2837237, rs741864, rs741864, and rs2837241; r2 = 0.8–1) are in or near the coding region for the tight junction adhesion protein, IGSF5. An additional variant associated with advanced adenomas, rs1535989 [minor allele frequency, 0.11; OR, 2.09; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.50–2.91], also predicted colorectal cancer development in a validation analysis (P = 0.019) using a series of adenoma cases or colorectal cancer (CORGI study) and 3 sets of colorectal cancer cases and controls (Scotland, VQ58, and Australia; N = 9,211).

Conclusions: Our results suggest that common polymorphisms contribute to the risk of developing advanced adenomas and might also contribute to the risk of developing colorectal cancer. The variant at rs1535989 may identify patients whose risk for neoplasia warrants increased colonoscopic surveillance. Clin Cancer Res; 19(23); 6430–7. ©2013 AACR.
Subjective Experience of Thought Overactivation in Mood Disorders: Beyond Racing and Crowded Thoughts
Authors: Keizer Ineke , Piguet Camille , Favre Sophie , Aubry Jean-Michel , Dayer Alexandre , Gervasoni Nicola , Gex-Fabry Marianne , Bertschy Gilles
Published: October 2013

Background: Racing thoughts, crowded thoughts and flight of ideas are frequent symptoms in mood disorders, but the underlying subjective experience of overactivation of thought processes remains poorly documented. Methods: Qualitative analysis of audiotaped interviews explored subjective experience of thought overactivation in patients with mood disorders (sample 1, n = 45). Quantitative analysis considered the properties of a newly developed rating scale in sample 1, in an additional sample of patients with mood disorders (sample 2, n = 37) and in healthy subjects (sample 3, n = 38). Results: Qualitative analysis of individual interviews revealed that 5 conceptual categories characterized thought overactivation: sequential thought flow, overstimulation, competition for resource allocation, unexpected/unexplained onset, and association with mood and emotions. A principal component analysis of the initial 16-item rating scale indicated that a single component explained 55.9% of the variance, with major and exclusive contributions from 9 items, which were retained in the final 9-item Subjective Thought Overactivation Questionnaire (STOQ; Cronbach's α = 0.95). Total score correlated significantly with activation, depression and perceived conflict subscales of the Internal State Scale (ISS; rs = 0.57-0.66, p < 0.001). It was associated with decreased well-being (ISS; rs = -0.48, p = 0.001) and increased state anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; rs = 0.60, p < 0.001). The STOQ score was significantly higher in patients than in healthy subjects. It allowed distinguishing between ISS mood states, with the highest median score in mixed states. Limitations: Sample size, representativeness, possible bias in qualitative analysis, and quality of expert consensus. Conclusions: Qualitative analysis of clinical interviews, together with a new short rating scale, contributed to a documentation of subjective thought overactivation, an important but often undetected feature in mood disorders.
Delayed Development of Pulmonary Hemorrhage in a Patient with Positive Circulating Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody: A Clinical Dilemma
Authors: Imai Toshimi , Takeda Shin-ichi , Kawaguchi Kazuo , Chaki Yuko , Morishita Yoshiyuki , Akimoto Tetsu , Muto Shigeaki , Kusano Eiji
Published: October 2013

Detection of circulating anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) provides a powerful clue in the diagnosis of vasculitis, but the clinical interpretation of the results is difficult in some cases. Here, we describe the case of a 65-year-old man who underwent hemodialysis due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and abruptly developed hemoptysis 14 years after a renal biopsy. At the time of the biopsy, computed tomography (CT) showed interstitial shadows in the lungs and pleural thickening, indicating pneumoconiosis that was accompanied by tuberculosis. Circulating myeloperoxidase-ANCA (10.5-32.5 U/ml) was subsequently noted, but the significance of this observation was unclear due to the preexisting disorders in the lungs and kidneys. Potent immunosuppressive therapies were avoided because of the pulmonary lesions and decreased renal function. There were few changes noted on follow-up CT, but infiltrative shadows emerged in the bilateral lungs, consistent with hemoptysis. The hemorrhagic shadows completely disappeared shortly after initiation of steroid therapy, with normalization of the serum ANCA level. Herein, we report this case, with an emphasis on the clinical dilemma faced in deciding the appropriate treatment. The findings in the case provide deep insights into clinical management of ANCA-positive patients.
All-cause and disease-related health care costs associated with recurrent venous thromboembolism
Authors: Lefebvre Patrick , Nutescu Edith A. , Duh Mei Sheng , LaMori Joyce , Bookhart Brahim K. , Olson William H. , Dea Katherine , Hossou Yvonnick , Schein Jeff , Kaatz Scott , Laliberté François
Published: October 2013

It was the objective of this study to quantify the risk of complications and the incremental health care costs associated with recurrent VTE events. Health care insurance claims from the Ingenix IMPACT database from 01/2004−09/2008 were analysed. Subjects aged ≥18 years on the date of first recurrent VTE diagnosis with ≥12 months of baseline observation prior to the index recurrent VTE were matched 1:1 with no-recurrent VTE patients based on propensity scores. The risk of developing post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and other disease-related diagnoses (thrombocytopenia, superficial venous thrombosis, venous ulcer, pulmonary hypertension, stasis dermatitis, and venous insufficiency) was compared between the recurrent and no-recurrent VTE groups for up to one year. All-cause and disease-related costs per patient per year (PPPY) were calculated. The recurrent VTE and no-recurrent VTE cohorts (8,001 subjects in each group) were matched with respect to age, gender, and comorbidities. The risk ratios (RRs) indicated that the risk of developing post-event complications was significantly higher for the recurrent VTE group compared to the no-recurrent VTE group (RR [95% CI]: PTS: 2.7 [2.4 − 2.9], p-value <0.01). Patients with recurrent VTE had significantly higher average PPPY all-cause costs compared to no-recurrent VTE patients ($86,744 versus $37,525, cost difference: $49,219 [€33,617]; 95% CI= 46,253−51,989). Corresponding disease-related health care costs PPPY were also significantly higher for the recurrent VTE group ($11,120 vs $1,262, cost difference: $9,858 [€6,733]; 95% CI= $9,081-$10,476). In conclusion, in this large matched-cohort study, recurrent VTE patients had significantly higher risk of complications and health care costs compared to no-recurrent VTE patients.

Note: Parts of this manuscript were presented at the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) Annual Meeting 2012, October 21–24, Hollywood, Florida and at the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) 18th Annual International Meeting 2013, May 18–22, New Orleans, LA, USA.
The effect of thrombus aspiration during primary percutaneous coronary intervention on clinical outcome in daily clinical practice
Authors: Kilic Sinem , Ottervanger Jan Paul , Dambrink Jan-Henk E. , Hoorntje Jan C. A. , Koopmans Petra C. , Gosselink A. T. Marcel , Suryapranata Harry , van ’t Hof Arnoud W. J. ,   the Zwolle Myocardial Infarction Study Group
Published: October 2013

It was the purpose of this study to assess the effect of thrombus aspiration (TA) during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) on reperfusion and clinical outcome in a real-world STEMI population. The decision to use TA (Export catheter, Medtronic) was at the discretion of the treating cardiologist. The primary endpoint was mortality at short (in-hospital) and long term (one year) follow-up. Secondary end points were post-PCI TIMI flow, residual ST deviation and enzymatic infarct size. Cox proportional hazard models (propensity-weighted) and logistic regression analysis were used to adjust for known covariates, associated with mortality. We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on 2,552 consecutive PPCI-treated STEMI patients between 2007 and 2010. Use of TA increased from 6.9% in 2007 to 62.2% in 2010 (p<0.001). TA was performed in 899 patients (35.2%). In-hospital and one-year mortality rates were 3.0% and 6.0%, respectively, in the TA group and 3.5% and 7.6% in the no- TA group. After multivariate analysis, TA was not significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.33–1.49, p=0.36) nor one year mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 0.75, 95%CI: 0.47–1.20, p=0.23) or cardiac mortality (HR: 0.81; 95%CI: 0.45–1.46, p=0.49). After matching on the propensity score, the HR in the TA group for one year mortality was 0.70 (95%CI: 0.41–1.20, p=0.19) and for one-year cardiac mortality 0.70 (95%CI: 0.36–1.34, p=0.28). In conclusion, no significant relationship of TA with one of the secondary end points was found. The use of TA increased over the last years but clinical outcome was similar in both groups (TA vs no-TA) in this large cohort of real-world, unselected STEMI patients.
Spectrum of Aortic Valve Abnormalities Associated With Aortic Dilation Across Age Groups in Turner Syndrome
Authors: Olivieri Laura J. , Baba Ridhwan Y. , Arai Andrew E. , Bandettini W. Patricia , Rosing Douglas R. , Bakalov Vladimir , Sachdev Vandana , Bondy Carolyn A.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Congenital aortic valve fusion is associated with aortic dilation, aneurysm, and rupture in girls and women with Turner syndrome. Our objective was to characterize aortic valve structure in subjects with Turner syndrome and to determine the prevalence of aortic dilation and valve dysfunction associated with different types of aortic valves.

Methods and Results—

The aortic valve and thoracic aorta were characterized by cardiovascular MRI in 208 subjects with Turner syndrome in an institutional review board–approved natural history study. Echocardiography was used to measure peak velocities across the aortic valve and the degree of aortic regurgitation. Four distinct valve morphologies were identified: tricuspid aortic valve, 64% (n=133); partially fused aortic valve, 12% (n=25); bicuspid aortic valve, 23% (n=47); and unicuspid aortic valve, 1% (n=3). Age and body surface area were similar in the 4 valve morphology groups. There was a significant trend, independent of age, toward larger body surface area–indexed ascending aortic diameters with increasing valve fusion. Ascending aortic diameters were (mean±SD) 16.9±3.3, 18.3±3.3, and 19.8±3.9 mm/m
2
(
P
<0.0001) for tricuspid aortic valve, partially fused aortic valve, and bicuspid aortic valve+unicuspid aortic valve, respectively. Partially fused aortic valve, bicuspid aortic valve, and unicuspid aortic valve were significantly associated with mild aortic regurgitation and elevated peak velocities across the aortic valve.

Conclusions—

Aortic valve abnormalities in Turner syndrome occur with a spectrum of severity and are associated with aortic root dilation across age groups. Partial fusion of the aortic valve, traditionally regarded as an acquired valve problem, had an equal age distribution and was associated with an increased ascending aortic diameters.
Systemic Delivery of MicroRNA-181b Inhibits Nuclear Factor-κB Activation, Vascular Inflammation, and Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E–Deficient Mice
Authors: Sun Xinghui , He Shaolin , Wara A.K.M. , Icli Basak , Shvartz Eugenia , Tesmenitsky Yevgenia , Belkin Nathan , Li Dazhu , Blackwell Timothy S. , Sukhova Galina K. , Croce Kevin , Feinberg Mark W.
Published: October 2013

Rationale:

Activated nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling in the vascular endothelium promotes the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Targeting endothelial NF-κB may provide a novel strategy to limit chronic inflammation.

Objective:

To examine the role of microRNA-181b (miR-181b) in endothelial NF-κB signaling and effects on atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results:

MiR-181b expression was reduced in the aortic intima and plasma in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice fed a high-fat diet. Correspondingly, circulating miR-181b in the plasma was markedly reduced in human subjects with coronary artery disease. Systemic delivery of miR-181b resulted in a 2.3-fold overexpression of miR-181b in the aortic intima of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice and suppressed NF-κB signaling revealed by bioluminescence imaging and reduced target gene expression in the aortic arch in apolipoprotein E–deficient/NF-κB-luciferase transgenic mice. MiR-181b significantly inhibited atherosclerotic lesion formation, proinflammatory gene expression and the influx of lesional macrophages and CD4+ T cells in the vessel wall. Mechanistically, miR-181b inhibited the expression of the target gene importin-α3, an effect that reduced NF-κB nuclear translocation specifically in the vascular endothelium of lesions, whereas surprisingly leukocyte NF-κB signaling was unaffected despite a 7-fold overexpression of miR-181b. Our findings uncover that NF-κB nuclear translocation in leukocytes does not involve importin-α3, but rather importin-α5, which miR-181b does not target, highlighting that inhibition of NF-κB signaling in the endothelium is sufficient to mediate miR-181b’s protective effects.

Conclusions:

Systemic delivery of miR-181b inhibits the activation of NF-κB and atherosclerosis through cell-specific mechanisms in the vascular endothelium. These findings support the rationale that delivery of miR-181b may provide a novel therapeutic approach to treat chronic inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Dissimulation or Assimilation? The Case of the Mandæans
Authors: Häberl Charles G.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

One of the smallest ethno-religious groups native to Iraq and Iran, the Mandæans can claim to be one of the region’s longest surviving traditions as the last remaining Gnostic religion from Late Antiquity. Their survival is as puzzling as it is remarkable. According to their own traditions, they have always lived in close proximity to members of other faiths, never composing more than a small fraction of the population, and were always subject to the rule of others. Perhaps for this reason, the Mandæans have often presented their faith to outsiders in a manner that emphasizes common practices and shared beliefs, while still establishing barriers to full assimilation. While this strategy may have sustained the Mandæans as a community over the centuries, it has also repeatedly failed to protect them in times of intense sectarian conflict and is beginning to break down as Mandæans increasingly spread throughout the world.
Reproductive traits of the lake prawn Palaemon paucidens De Haan, 1844 (Decapoda, Palaemonidae), from Goesan Lake, South Korea
Authors: Puspitasari Indah , Oh Chul Woong , Lee Wan Ok
Published: October 2013

The reproductive biology of Palaemon paucidens De Haan, 1844, from Goesan Lake, Korea, was investigated during the period May 2010-October 2011. The proportion of females was significantly greater than that of males (female : male ratio, 1 : 0.7). The gonadosomatic index (GSI) varied monthly, reaching a maximum in May and a minimum in September. Monthly variations in the proportions of ovigerous females showed peaks in April and May. The highest values of the GSI coincided with the breeding period of P. paucidens (April-August). There was no significant difference between the mean GSI of females with non-eyed and eyed eggs, indicating that P. paucidens is a non-consecutive breeder. There was a significant correlation between the number of eggs and the carapace length at early egg stages. There was no significant difference in the intercepts of the regressions of the number of eggs versus carapace length between females carrying non-eyed and eyed egg stages, indicating that there was no brood loss during the incubation period. Egg volume increased significantly (by 75.6%) as eggs developed from the non-eyed to the eyed stage. Reproductive output was 0.20 ± 0.04, based on dry weights in early egg stages. The results were compared with other studies of P. paucidens in Sukdang Lake and other species of palaemonids in different habitats. This comparison reveals intra- and inter-specific variations in reproductive traits of palaemonid shrimp. The phenomenon is suggested to be a result of adaptations to different environmental conditions. Variation in reproductive traits within the same species reflects a different life strategy adaptation in species that will require a different approach in fisheries management. Information on intra- and inter-specific variation in reproductive traits is important to be used as one basic issue of biological information to support an effective fisheries management of P. paucidens, which has been locally exploited in Korea and Japan.
A novel CYP450 gene (CYP4V18) of the shrimp Penaeus schmitti Burkenroad, 1936 (Decapoda, Dendrobranchiata): cloning and down-regulation of CYP4V18 expression by the imidazole derivative KK-42
Authors: Xichao X. , Wenfeng W. , Xin L. , Xueshen W. , Li L. , Ning Qianji
Published: October 2013

The CYP4 family is the most ancient and diversified group of P450 and some members are associated with ecdysteroid metabolism in arthropods. In an attempt to research the possible molecular mechanism of KK-42 action on Penaeus schmitti Burkenroad, 1936, one CYP4 cDNA sequence from the hepatopancreas was first cloned and its spatiotemporal expressions were analysed using real-time PCR, and the haemolymph 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) level was measured by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Results showed that the full-length cDNA contains a 1545 bp open reading frame encoding a predicted protein of 515 amino acids named CYP4V18 by the P450 nomenclature committee. The highest cyp4v18 mRNA level was detected in hepatopancreas. Compared with that of the KK-42 treatment group, the hepatopancreas cyp4v18 expression in the control group increased to >72.3%, even 187.7% () on day 6. The haemolymph 20E levels increased slightly in KK-42-treated shrimps compared to that in controls during the experimental stage. The results show that the hepatopancreas CYP4V18 is not involved in 20E biosynthesis, and likely plays other roles in the shrimp, P. schmitti.
Classification and relationships of Assiculus and Assiculoides
(Teleostei: Pseudochromidae)
Authors: GILL ANTHONY C.
Published: October 2013

The monotypic Australian pseudochromid fish genera Assiculus and Assiculoides had been previously included in the subfamily Pseudochrominae on the basis of symplesiomorphic characters. Osteological synapomorphies are identified in support of a closer relationship to the remaining pseudochromid subfamilies. Two synapomorphies (five or fewer infraorbital bones, haemal spine of preural vertebra 2 attached to centrum) diagnose a clade consisting of Assiculoides, Pseudoplesiopinae, Anisochrominae and Congrogadinae. Two additional synapomorphies (parhypural not separate from hypurals 1+2, total caudal-fin rays modally 27 or fewer) diagnose a more inclusive clade that also includes Assiculus. Two new subfamilies are erected to reflect these relationships.
Review of the subfamily Tripetalocerinae Bolívar, 1887 (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae)
Authors: Storozhenko Sergey Yu.
Published: October 2013

Subfamily Tripetalocerinae consist of four genera distributed in Southeast Asia. Clinophaestus gen. nov. (type species: Clinophaestus robustus sp. nov.) and Tripetaloceroides gen. nov. (type species: Tripetalocera tonkinensis Günther, 1938) are described. New tribe Clinophaestini trib. nov. (type genus: Clinophaestus gen. nov.) is established. Diagnosis and key to tribes and genera are given. An annotated list of species is provided. Genus Kraengia Bolívar, 1909 is transferred from Tripetalocerinae to Discotettiginae.
A rapid direct assay for the routine measurement of oestradiol and oestrone by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Owen Laura J , Wu Frederick C , Keevil Brian G
Published: October 2013

Background

Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is rapidly becoming the technology of choice for measuring steroid hormones. We have developed a rapid LC-MS/MS assay for the routine analysis of serum oestradiol and oestrone. The assay uses a relatively small volume and has a rapid run time.

Methods

Supported liquid extraction was performed on 250  µL of sample using methyl tertiary butyl ether. The extract was dried and reconstituted with 100  µL of 40% methanol. Online automated solid phase extraction was performed on 75  µL of extract using C18 cartridges on a Waters OSM coupled to a Waters TQS mass spectrometer. Serum samples ( n = 197) were analysed by LC-MS/MS and a commercial immunoassay.

Results

The lower limit of quantitation for oestradiol and oestrone was 10 and 6 pmol/L, respectively. The coefficient of variation (CV) of the assay for oestradiol and oestrone concentrations of 125 pmol/L was <7%. The assay had a CV of 10% at 22 pmol/L for oestradiol and 5% at 16 pmol/L for oestrone. The average recovery for oestradiol was 102% and oestrone was 106%. The comparison with a commercial immunoassay gave the following equation: Immunoassay = 0.94 × LC-MS/MS + 21 pmol/L. The run time was 4.5 min per sample.

Discussion

We have developed a rapid assay for the LC-MS/MS measurement of oestradiol and oestrone which does not require derivatization in the sample preparation. The assay is suitable for routine clinical use or for clinical trials. The assay demonstrated superior performance compared to immunoassays at lower concentrations making it more suitable for use in males and patients on aromatase inhibitors.
The globalization of social sciences? Evidence from a quantitative analysis of 30 years of production, collaboration and citations in the social sciences (1980–2009)
Authors: Mosbah-Natanson Sébastien , Gingras Yves
Published: October 2013

This article addresses the issue of internationalization of social sciences by studying the evolution of production (of academic articles), collaboration and citations patterns among main world regions over the period 1980–2009 using the SSCI. The results confirm the centre–periphery model and indicate that the centrality of the two major regions that are North America and Europe is largely unchallenged, Europe having become more important and despite the growing development of Asian social sciences. The authors’ quantitative approach shows that the growing production in the social sciences but also the rise of international collaborations between regions have not led to a more homogeneous circulation of the knowledge produced by different regions, or to a substantial increase in the visibility of the contributions produced by peripheral regions. Social scientists from peripheral regions, while producing more papers in the core journals compiled by the SSCI, have a stronger tendency to cite journals from the two central regions, thus losing at least partially their more locally embedded references, and to collaborate more with western social scientists. In other words, the dynamic of internationalization of social science research may also lead to a phagocytosis of the periphery into the two major centers, which brings with it the danger of losing interest in the local objects specific to those peripheral regions.
Terms of engagement: Political boundaries of work engagement–work outcomes relationships
Authors: Kane-Frieder Rachel E , Hochwarter Wayne A , Ferris Gerald R
Published: October 2013

Although research to date has established the criterion validity of work engagement, little research has examined relevant boundary conditions capable of altering its documented positive effects on important workplace outcomes, despite widespread appeals to do so (e.g. Parker and Griffin, 2011). In the present four-sample investigation, a competing hypotheses format was adopted, pitting against each other perspectives of ‘politics as a hindrance stressor’ and ‘politics as a challenge stressor’ as moderators of work engagement–work outcomes relationships (e.g. job tension, job satisfaction, work intensity, job performance). Cross-sample findings demonstrated that organizational politics perceptions strengthened positive work engagement–work outcomes relationships, such that engaged individuals were less stressed, more satisfied, worked with greater intensity and exhibited greater performance when they perceived their job environments to be political. This series of results affirms the challenge/opportunity stressor properties of politics perceptions for individuals more actively involved in their jobs and workplaces. Cross-disciplinary implications of these results for theory and practice, strengths and limitations, and directions for future research are provided.
Homeless mentally ill in Athens area: A cross-sectional study on unmet needs and help-seeking
Authors: Chondraki Paraskevi , Madianos Michael G , Dragioti Elena , Papadimitriou George N
Published: October 2013

Background:

Homelessness, a worldwide psychosocial phenomenon, is now also prevalent in Greece, mainly in Athens area.

Methods:

The possible psychiatric morbidity related to help-seeking and the underlying factors were explored in a sample of 254 homeless people from Greater Athens area, using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.).

Results:

The sample was predominantly male (74%) with mean age of 51 years, being in their majority homeless for over 25 months, 34.3% of them living in rough sleeping places. Overall, 56.7% of the sample met the criteria for a current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) psychiatric disorder with 20.8% comorbidity. Only 36.2% of the identified psychiatric cases had any recent psychiatric care, while 44.4% were taking non-prescribed medication and 20.2% have been hospitalized in the last year. On the contrary, 70% of alcohol- and drug-dependent persons have been treated in a psychiatric agency, while 60.0% of them participated in rehabilitation program the last year. Logistic regression analysis revealed that being older, more educated with longer duration of homelessness, recognizing the suffering from a psychiatric problem as well as being diagnosed as ‘psychotic’ increased the likelihood to seek help.

Conclusions:

The vast majority of the homeless mentally ill persons were lacking any current psychiatric care. The planning of a mental health–care delivery parallel to the existing social welfare system is needed to serve the unmet mental health needs of this population.
Collaborative Selflessness
Authors: Bradbury Hilary
Published: October 2013

This collaborative inquiry reports the impact of mindfulness meditation practice in a hospital’s palliative care setting. Designed as action research, the collaborative program invited participants to investigate and deepen the benefits of the practice for themselves with others over the course of 12 weeks. Participants expressed surprise by how liberating it was to learn to notice and drop their self-centered thinking. Theorizing these findings by bringing perspectives from pragmatism and psychological perspectives on Buddhism, an experience-near understanding of the self also emerged. The article includes reflection on how the combination of action research and mindfulness is practical and useful to participants in the context of caregiving as it reports many benefits to participants. The article ends with a definition of self as “encompassing all that which can be responded to,” which also contributes a practical and useful direction for reconceptualizing the self as a more collaborative self.
Optimising fibre alignment in twisted yarns for natural fibre composites
Authors: Gu Hongbo , Miao Menghe
Published: October 2013

Natural plant fibres are short fibres that must be spun into continuous length yarns for the production of structured composites. Fibres in a twisted singles yarn are poorly aligned. The fibre alignment can be improved without sacrificing the yarn strength by forming a two-ply yarn from two singles yarns. In this paper, we analysed the differential geometry of fibre trajectory using an idealised twisted yarn model and derived the optimum two-ply yarn structure that gives the maximum Krenchel fibre orientation factor. In the optimum two-ply yarn, the ply twist is in the opposite direction to the singles twist and the ply-to-singles twist ratio is 0.28. Such a two-ply yarn construction is beneficial for all twisted yarns aimed for structural composites applications, particularly for yarns made from low cost natural fibres which are usually of short length, low strength and poor uniformity and thus require high twist to achieve sufficient strength for yarn manufacture and further handlings in composite fabrication.
Microwave–thermal technique for energy and time efficient curing of carbon fiber reinforced polymer prepreg composites
Authors: Joshi Sunil C , Bhudolia Somen K
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates fabrication and mechanical properties of L-930 carbon fiber reinforced polymer woven prepreg composites cured using three different techniques: (1) thermal, (2) microwave, and (3) the combination of microwave and thermal. The third technique was established through parametric studies and proved to be an efficient method in curing the carbon fiber reinforced polymer prepregs without compromising mechanical properties, but with significant energy and time saving. With 20 min in microwave at 510 W followed by 60 min thermal curing in convection oven at 120℃ provided optimum results in terms of time and energy saving. The process was 2.5 times faster than and consumed only 1/4th of energy required for the autoclave curing. The mechanical properties in tension and flexure of carbon fiber reinforced polymer [0/90] and [±45] laminates cured with this technique were 1–5% better than the autoclave cured laminates. The details of the composites fabrication, the curing techniques, the experiments conducted along with the rationale and underlying reasons for the success of the new “microwave–thermal” curing technique are presented in this paper.