bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Anticancer Phytochemicals inAndrographis paniculataNees. under Salinity Stress
Authors: Talei Daryush , Valdiani Alireza , Maziah Mahmood , Sagineedu Sreenivasa Rao , Saad Mohd Said
Published: November 2013

Salinity causes the adverse effects in all physiological processes of plants. The present study aimed to investigate the potential of salt stress to enhance the accumulation of the anticancer phytochemicals inAndrographis paniculataaccessions. For this purpose, 70-day-old plants were grown in different salinity levels (0.18, 4, 8, 12, and 16 dSm−1) on sand medium. After inducing a period of 30-day salinity stress and before flowering, all plants were harvested and the data on morphological traits, proline content and the three anticancer phytochemicals, including andrographolide (AG), neoandrographolide (NAG), and 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide (DDAG), were measured. The results indicated that salinity had a significant effect on the aforementioned three anticancer phytochemicals. In addition, the salt tolerance index (STI) was significantly decreased, while, except for DDAG, the content of proline, the AG, and NAG was significantly increased (P≤0.01). Furthermore, it was revealed that significant differences among accessions could happen based on the total dry weight, STI, AG, and NAG. Finally, we noticed that the salinity at 12 dSm−1led to the maximum increase in the quantities of AG, NAG, and DDAG. In other words, under salinity stress, the tolerant accessions were capable of accumulating the higher amounts of proline, AG, and NAG than the sensitive accessions.
Estimation of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Growth Traits in a Clonal Seed Orchard of Pinus kesiya in Malawi
Authors: Missanjo Edward , Kamanga-Thole Gift , Manda Vidah
Published: November 2013

Genetic and phenotypic parameters for height, diameter at breast height (dbh), and volume were estimated for Pinus kesiya Royle ex Gordon clonal seed orchard in Malawi using an ASReml program, fitting an individual tree model. The data were from 88 clones assessed at 18, 23, 30, 35, and 40 years of age. Heritability estimates for height, dbh, and volume were moderate to high ranging from 0.19 to 0.54, from 0.14 to 0.53, and from 0.20 to 0.59, respectively, suggesting a strong genetic control of the traits at the individual level, among families, and within families. The genetic and phenotypic correlations between the growth traits were significantly high and ranged from 0.69 to 0.97 and from 0.60 to 0.95, respectively. This suggests the possibility of indirect selection in trait with direct selection in another trait. The predicted genetic gains showed that the optimal rotational age of the Pinus kesiya clonal seed orchard is 30 years; therefore, it is recommended to establish a new Pinus kesiya clonal seed orchard. However, selective harvest of clones with high breeding values in the old seed orchard should be considered so that the best parents in the old orchard can continue to contribute until the new orchard is well established.
Feature-Aware Cooperative Relaying for Multiflow Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Tao Ming , Yuan Huaqiang , Wei Wenhong , Qu Chao
Published: November 2013

Addressing the energy efficiency in data-centric and application-oriented wireless sensor networks is an eternal theme, and in the practical scenarios deployed multiple flows, often a serious problem of collisions among multiple paths caused by the fierce network resource competition directly influences the whole network performance. To address this issue, in terms of the delay sensitivity imposed on the deployed flows, a feature-aware cooperative relay selection scheme is developed by comprehensively taking both the routing selection and contention avoidance into account, in which the concept of abstract domain is introduced to extend the covered relay nodes. The optimal relays for the deployed multiflow with specific probing and transmission requirements are selected to find collision-free and energy-efficient cooperative routings. Simulations conducted on NS-2 platform demonstrate that the proposed cooperative routing outperforms the compared routing selection strategies in significantly balancing the energy distribution and prolonging the network lifetime.
Whole Body Microwave Irradiation for Improved Dacarbazine Therapeutical Action in Cutaneous Melanoma Mouse Model
Authors: Neagu Monica , Constantin Carolina , Martin Diana , Albulescu Lucian , Iacob Nicusor , Ighigeanu Daniel
Published: November 2013

A cutaneous melanoma mouse model was used to test the efficacy of a new therapeutical approach that uses low doses of cytostatics in conjunction with mild whole body microwave exposure of 2.45 GHz in order to enhance cytostatics antitumoral effect.Materials and Methods.A microwave exposure system for C57BL/6 mouse whole body microwave irradiation was designed; groups of 40 mice (males and females) bearing experimental tumours were subjected to a combined therapy comprising low doses of dacarbazine in combination with mild whole body irradiation. Clinical parameters and serum cytokine testing using xMAP technology were performed.Results.The group that was subjected to combined therapy, microwave and cytostatic, had the best clinical evolution in terms of overall survival, tumour volume, and metastatic potential. At day 14 the untreated group had 100% mortality, while in the combined therapy group 40% of mice were surviving. Quantifying serum IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IFN-γ, GM-CSF, TNF-α, MIP-1α, MCP-1, and KC during tumorigenesis and therapy found that the combined experimental therapy decreases all the inflammatory cytokines, except chemokine MCP-1 that was found increased, suggesting an increase of the anti-tumoral immune response triggered by the combined therapy. The overall metastatic process is decreased in the combined therapy group.
Applications of Matrices to a Matroidal Structure of Rough Sets
Authors: Wang Jingqian , Zhu William
Published: November 2013

Rough sets provide an efficient tool for dealing with the vagueness and granularity in information systems. They are widely used in attribute reduction in data mining. There are many optimization issues in attribute reduction. Matroids generalize the linear independence in vector spaces and are widely used in optimization. Therefore, it is necessary to integrate rough sets and matroids. In this paper, we apply matrices to a matroidal structure of rough sets through three sides, which are characteristics, operations, and axioms. Firstly, a matroid is induced by an equivalence relation, and the matroid is a representable matroid whose representable matrix is a matrix representation of the equivalence relation. Then some characteristics of the matroid are presented through the representable matrix mainly. Secondly, contraction and restriction operations are applied to the matroid through the representable matrix and approximation operators of rough sets. Finally, two axioms of circuit incidence matrices of 2-circuit matroids are obtained, where 2-circuit matroids are proposed based on the characteristics of the matroid. In a word, these results show an interesting view to investigate the combination between rough sets and matroids through matrices.
The Strong Consistency of the Estimator of Fixed-Design Regression Model under Negatively Dependent Sequences
Authors: Wang Xuejun , Ge Meimei , Hu Shuhe , Wang Xize
Published: November 2013

We study the strong consistency of estimator of fixed design regression model under negatively dependent sequences by using the classical Rosenthal-type inequality and the truncated method. As an application, the strong consistency for the nearest neighbor estimator is obtained.
Uniform Asymptotic Stability of Solutions of Fractional Functional Differential Equations
Authors: Li Yajing , Wang Yejuan
Published: November 2013

Some global existence and uniform asymptotic stability results for fractional functional differential equations are proved. It is worth mentioning that whenα=1the initial value problemDαyteβt=ft,yteβt,  t∈t0,∞,  t0⩾0,  0<α<1,  yt=ϕt,  t0-h⩽t⩽t0,reduces to a classical dissipative differential equation with delays as in Caraballo et al.'s work (2005).
Calculation of the Absorption Cross Sections of Some Molecules from GEISA Database at the Wavelengths of Isotopically Different CO2 Lasers
Authors: Rakhymzhan Asylkhan , Chichinin Alexey
Published: November 2013

A calculation of the absorption cross section of some molecules (NH3, C2H4, CO2, O3, NO2, PH3, HNO3, SF6, CH3OH, HCOOH, OCS, CH3CN, C2H6, SO2, and H2O) at the wavelengths transmitted by a CO2 laser filled with different isotopes (12C16O2, 13C16O2, 12C18O2, 14C16O2, 14C18O2, 13C18O2, and 12C16O18O) is presented. The spectroscopical parameters for the molecules from GEISA database have been used. Hence the selection of the molecules was substantially based on the availability of the parameters in the database. The results of the calculations may be used in designing the differential absorption technique for remote monitoring of these molecules. The pressure and temperature dependence of the cross sections are described by and coefficients; these coefficients were calculated for the largest absorption cross sections for each molecule. The absorption cross sections of CH3OH and HCOOH at low pressures for all these CO2 lasers are also presented. These calculations are provided for design of new CO2-laser-pumped far-infrared lasers.
Adaptive Exponential Stabilization for a Class of Stochastic Nonholonomic Systems
Authors: Qin Xiaoyan
Published: November 2013

This paper investigates the adaptive stabilization problem for a class of stochastic nonholonomic systems with strong drifts. By using input-state-scaling technique, backstepping recursive approach, and a parameter separation technique, we design an adaptive state feedback controller. Based on the switching strategy to eliminate the phenomenon of uncontrollability, the proposed controller can guarantee that the states of closed-loop system are global bounded in probability.
Nonuniform Continuity of the Osmosis K(2, 2) Equation
Authors: Chen Aiyong , Ding Yong , Huang Wentao
Published: November 2013

The qualitative theory of differential equations is applied to the osmosis K(2, 2) equation. The parametric conditions of existence of the smooth periodic travelling wave solutions are given. We show that the solution map is not uniformly continuous by using the theory of Himonas and Misiolek. The proof relies on a construction of smooth periodic travelling waves with small amplitude.
Analysis of Mathematics and Sustainability in an Impulsive Eutrophication Controlling System
Authors: Yu Hengguo , Zhao Min , Wang Qi
Published: November 2013

Eutrophication removal problems have captured the attention of biologists, mathematicians, and environmental scientists. Within this framework, an impulsive eutrophication controlling system is studied analytically and numerically. A key advantage of the eutrophication system is that it can be quite accurate to describe the interaction effect of some critical factors (fishermen catch and releasing small fry, etc.), which enables a systematic and logical procedure for fitting eutrophication mathematical system to real monitoring data and experiment data. Mathematical theoretical works have been pursuing the investigation of two threshold functions of some critical parameters under the condition of all species persistence, which can in turn provide a theoretical basis for the numerical simulation. Using numerical simulation works, we mainly focus on how to choose the best value of some critical parameters to ensure the sustainability of the eutrophication system so that the eutrophication removal process can be well developed with maximizing economic benefit. These results may be further extended to provide a basis for simulating the algal bloom in the laboratory and understanding the application of some impulsive controlling models about eutrophication removal problems.
An Unusual Case of Synchronous Carcinoid of Ovary and Gall Bladder
Authors: Bassi Rupali , Arora Raksha , Bhasin Sangeeta , Khurana Nita
Published: November 2013

Multifocal carcinoid is a known phenomenon. We present a rare combination of an ovarian carcinoid synchronous with gallbladder carcinoid. This rare combination has not been reported so far. An asymptomatic 45-years-old perimenopausal lady was diagnosed to have a metastatic ovarian cancer, but on laparotomy she was found to have a primary synchronous metastatic gall bladder as well. On histopathological evaluation she was found to have two separate primary carcinoids. Subsequently the patient received chemotherapy and is completely asymptomatic on follow up. Further research needs to be undertaken and guidelines need to be formulated for management of these cases.
Immunoexpression of Interleukin-22 and Interleukin-23 in Oral and Cutaneous Lichen Planus Lesions: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Chen Jun , Feng Jinqiu , Chen Xiangdong , Xu Hui , Zhou Zengtong , Shen Xuemin , Bao Zhexuan , Liu Wei , Shen Zhengyu
Published: November 2013

Interleukin- (IL-) 22 is the signature cytokine of T-helper (Th) 22 cells, and IL-23 is required for IL-22 production. The objective of this study was to examine the immunoexpression of IL-22 and IL-23 in archival paraffin-embedded biopsy specimens from oral LP (n=42) and cutaneous LP (n=38) against normal control tissues. The results showed that the percentage of cells expressing IL-22 and IL-23 in LP were significantly higher in LP compared to controls, respectively (bothP<0.001). The correlation between IL-22 and IL-23 expression was significant (P<0.05). Moreover, the percentage of cells expressing IL-22 and IL-23 in oral LP were significantly higher than cutaneous LP (P<0.05). Collectively, our findings demonstrated that the increased expression of IL-22 and IL-23 in LP lesions could play roles in the pathogenesis of LP. Moreover, oral LP expressing IL-22 and IL-23 was higher than cutaneous LP, probably due to Th22 cells as an important component of oral mucosal host defense against oral microbiota and tissue antigens. This may be associated with the difference in clinical behaviour of the two variants of the disease.
A Combined Optimal Sensor Placement Strategy for the Structural Health Monitoring of Bridge Structures
Authors: He Can , Xing Jianchun , Li Juelong , Yang Qiliang , Wang Ronghao , Zhang Xun
Published: November 2013

Optimal sensor placement is an important part in the structural health monitoring of bridge structures. However, some defects are present in the existing methods, such as the focus on a single optimal index, the selection of modal order and sensor number based on experience, and the long computation time. A hybrid optimization strategy named MSE-AGA is proposed in this study to address these problems. The approach firstly selects modal order using modal participation factor. Then, the modal strain energy method is adopted to conduct the initial sensor placement. Finally, the adaptive genetic algorithm (AGA) is utilized to determine the optimal number and locations of the sensors, which uses the root mean square of off-diagonal elements in the modal assurance criterion matrix as the fitness function. A case study of sensor placement on a numerically simulated bridge structure is provided to verify the effectiveness of the MSE-AGA strategy, and the AGA method without initial placement is used as a contrast experiment. A comparison of these strategies shows that the optimal results obtained by the MSE-AGA method have a high modal strain energy index, a short computation time, and small off-diagonal elements in the modal assurance criterion matrix.
Integrating the TRIZ and Taguchi's Method in the Optimization of Processes Parameters for SMT
Authors: Jou Yung-Tsan , Lin Wen-Tsann , Lee Wei-Cheng , Yeh Tsu-Ming
Published: November 2013

SMT is an assembly technology for core circuit board parts. Unless process parameters are effectively controlled, poor solderability may result in a decline in product quality. This study looks at an SMT manufacturing process in a multinational company. First, the TRIZ contradiction matrix is revised to investigate the association between the 39 parameters in the contradiction matrix and 13 parameters that influence the unevenness of solder paste in the solder paste printing process. Expert verification is then used to screen the key factors affecting the quality of SMT, which are then combined with Taguchi's method to identify the optimal parameter set influencing the thickness of SMT solder paste.Results. TRIZ identifies squeegee pressure, ejection speed, squeegee speed, and squeegee angle as the four parameters with the greatest influence on SMT solder paste thickness. Taguchi's method is used to identify the optimum levels set for the experimental factors and carry out confirmation experiments. TheS/Nratio improved from 21.732 db to 26.632 db, while the mean also improved from the current 0.163 mm to 0.155 mm, close to the target value of 0.15 mm. The results show that applying TRIZ and Taguchi's method for the purpose of product improvement is feasible.
Infliximab Extends the Duration until the First Surgery in Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Sakatani Aki , Fujiya Mikihiro , Ito Takahiro , Inaba Yuhei , Ueno Nobuhiro , Kashima Shin , Tominaga Motoya , Moriichi Kentaro , Okamoto Kotaro , Tanabe Hiroki , Ikuta Katsuya , Ohtake Takaaki , Kono Toru , Furukawa Hiroyuki , Ashida Toshifumi , Kohgo Yutaka
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims. While biological drugs are useful for relieving the disease activity and preventing abdominal surgery in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), it is unclear whether the use of biological drugs in CD patients with no history of abdominal surgery is appropriate. We evaluated the effects of infliximab and other factors on extending the duration until the first surgery in CD patients on a long-term basis.Methods. The clinical records of 104 CD patients were retrospectively investigated. The cumulative nonoperation rate until the first surgery was examined with regard to demographic factors and treatments.Results. The 50% nonoperative interval in the 104 CD patients was 107 months. The results of a univariate analysis revealed that a female gender, the colitis type of CD, and the administration of corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or infliximab were factors estimated to improve the cumulative nonoperative rate. A multivariate analysis showed that the colitis type and administration of infliximab were independent factors associated with a prolonged interval until the first surgery in the CD patients with no history of abdominal surgery.Conclusions. This study suggests that infliximab treatment extends the duration until the first surgery in CD patients with no history of abdominal surgery. The early use of infliximab before a patient undergoes abdominal surgery is therefore appropriate.
Diastolic Dysfunction and Severity of Cirrhosis in Nonalcoholic Cirrhotic Patients
Authors: Salari A. , Shafaghi A. , Ofoghi M. , Saeidinia A. , Mansour-Ghanaei F.
Published: November 2013

Background. In this study, we evaluated the association between diastolic dysfunction severity and severity of cirrhosis in nonalcoholic cirrhotic patients.Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted on all nonalcoholic cirrhotic patients who were admitted in Rasht Razi hospital the Cancer of Guilan Province, north of Iran, from January 2011 to March 2012. Severity of cirrhosis was evaluated by Child-Pugh score. A 12-lead surface ECG and echocardiographic studies were performed. We used a HDI 3000 (Philips ATL, Bothell, WA, USA) equipped with 2 to 4 MHz probes. Diastolic function was determined by an expert cardiac sonographer. Data were analyzed by SPSS for win (version16). APvalue less than 0.05 was considered significant.Results. Sixty-tree percent of patients were male. The mean age of patients was52.78±15.2years. 22%, 38%, and 40% of patients were considered as child class A, B, and C, respectively. There was a significant relation between diastolic dysfunction and disease duration (P=0.001), female gender (P=0.004), age > 60 years (P=0.045), and severity of cirrhosis (P=0.048). On multivariate analysis, decreased E/A ratio (P=0.03) and disease duration (P=0.02) showed an independent significant relation.Conclusion. According to the relation between severity of cirrhosis and diastolic dysfunction, we recommend cardiac assessment in all child B and C cirrhotic patients.
A Vector Algebraic Algorithm for Coverage Compensation in Hybrid Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Qin Ning-ning , Guo Li-xia , Ding Zhi-guo , Xu Bao-guo
Published: November 2013

In wireless sensor networks, coverage holes are caused by energy depletion at some nodes, and the aim of this paper is to study how to utilize the redundant nodes with remaining energy. Particularly, this paper proposes a vector algebra based algorithm by exploring redundant nodes as an extra dimension for coverage compensation. This algorithm consists of two parts. One is to find the locations of potential redundant nodes for coverage compensation; and the other is to opportunistically select the best redundant nodes by jointly considering the hole boundaries and the remaining energy of nodes. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate that the proposed algorithm minimizes the energy consumption when repairing the holes for full coverage. Furthermore, compared with other algorithms, the proposed one exhibits better performance in terms of moving distance and energy consumption.
Global Behavior of a Discrete Survival Model with Several Delays
Authors: Xu Meirong , Wang Yuzhen
Published: November 2013

The difference equationyn+1−yn=−αyn+∑j=1mβje−γjyn−kjis studied and some sufficient conditions which guarantee that all solutions of the equation are oscillatory, or that the positive equilibrium of the equation is globally asymptotically stable, are obtained.
Differential Prognostic Indicators for Locoregional Recurrence, Distant Recurrence, and Death of Breast Cancer
Authors: Chairat Rungnapa , Puttisri Adisorn , Pamarapa Asani , Moollaor Jirause , Tawichasri Chamaiporn , Patumanond Jayanton
Published: November 2013

Objective. To explore prognostic characteristics for locoregional recurrence, distant recurrence, and mortality in patients with breast cancer. Methods. A 5-year retrospective review of patients was conducted in two university affiliated hospitals in the north of Thailand. Prognostic characteristics and clinical outcomes were retrieved from medical registry. Death was verified by the civil database from the Ministry of Interior, direct telephone contact, or by prepaid postcard. Data were analyzed by stratified Cox’s regression proposed by Lunn & McNeil, in which multiple-typed outcomes were analyzed in a single multivariable model. Results. The assembled cohort comprised 829 patients. Under the multivariable analysis, 7 prognostic characteristics were significant prognostic indicators. Positive axillary lymph nodes >3 and presence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) increased locoregional recurrence, while disease stage 3, positive axillary lymph nodes >3, and radiotherapy increase distant recurrence. Hormonal therapy reduced the distant recurrence. Pathological tumor size >2 cm, disease stage 3, positive axillary lymph nodes >3, and presence of LVI increased, while hormonal therapy and chemotherapy reduced death. Conclusions. Clinical characteristic reflecting tumor invasions increased locoregional recurrence, distant recurrence, or death, while hormonal therapy and chemotherapy reduced such risks. The effect of radiation remained inconclusive but may increase the risk of distant recurrence.
Analytical Review of Data Visualization Methods in Application to Big Data
Authors: Gorodov Evgeniy Yur’evich , Gubarev Vasiliy Vasil’evich
Published: November 2013

This paper describes the term Big Data in aspects of data representation and visualization. There are some specific problems in Big Data visualization, so there are definitions for these problems and a set of approaches to avoid them. Also, we make a review of existing methods for data visualization in application to Big Data and taking into account the described problems. Summarizing the result, we have provided a classification of visualization methods in application to Big Data.
A Novel Approach for Modeling and Simulation of Helix Twisting Structure Based on Mass-Spring Model
Authors: Wang Zhongbin , Zhang Lin , Song Jing , Cao Guohua , Liu Xinhua
Published: November 2013

In order to improve the modeling efficiency and realize the deformation simulation of helix twisting structure, a computer-aided design system based on mass-spring model is developed. The geometry structure of helix twisting structure is presented and mass-spring model is applied in the deformation simulation. Moreover, the key technologies such as coordinate mapping, system render and system architecture are elaborated. Finally, a prototype system is developed with Visual C++ and OpenGL, and the proposed system is proved efficient through a comparison experiment.
Overexpression of the Circadian Clock Gene Bmal1 Increases Sensitivity to Oxaliplatin in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zeng Zhao-lei , Luo Hui-yan , Yang Jing , Wu Wen-jing , Chen Dong-liang , Huang Peng , Xu Rui-hua
Published: November 2013

Purpose: The circadian clock gene Bmal1 is involved in cancer cell proliferation and DNA damage sensitivity. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of Bmal1 on oxaliplatin sensitivity and to determine its clinical significance in colorectal cancer.

Experimental Design: Three colorectal cancer cell lines, HCT116, THC8307 and HT29, were used. The Bmal1-mediated control of colorectal cancer cell proliferation was tested in vitro and in vivo. MTT and colony formation assays were performed to determine the sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to oxaliplatin. Flow cytometry was used to examine changes in the cell-cycle distribution and apoptosis rate. Proteins expressed downstream of Bmal1 upon its overexpression were determined by Western blotting. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze Bmal1 expression in 82 archived colorectal cancer tumors from patients treated with oxaliplatin-based regimens.

Results: Bmal1 overexpression inhibited colorectal cancer cell proliferation and increased colorectal cancer sensitivity to oxaliplatin in three colorectal cancer cell lines and HCT116 cells model in vivo. Furthermore, the overall survival of patients with colorectal cancer with high Bmal1 levels in their primary tumors was significantly longer than that of patients with low Bmal1 levels (27 vs. 19 months; P = 0.043). The progression-free survival of patients with high Bmal1 expression was also significantly longer than that of patients with low Bmal1 expression (11 vs. 5 months; P = 0.015). Mechanistically, the effect of Bmal1 was associated with its ability to regulate G2–M arrest by activating the ATM pathway.

Conclusion: Bmal1 shows the potential as a novel prognostic biomarker and may represent a new therapeutic target in colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 1042–52. ©2013 AACR.
SC-60, a Dimer-Based Sorafenib Derivative, Shows a Better Anti–Hepatocellular Carcinoma Effect than Sorafenib in a Preclinical Hepatocellular Carcinoma Model
Authors: Tai Wei-Tien , Shiau Chung-Wai , Li Yong-Shi , Chen Yao-Li , Chu Pei-Yi , Huang Jui-Wen , Hsu Cheng-Yi , Hsu Yi-Chieh , Chen Pei-Jer , Chen Kuen-Feng
Published: November 2013

Sorafenib is the first approved targeted therapeutic reagent for hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we report that SC-60, a dimer-based sorafenib derivative, overcomes the resistance of sorafenib and shows a better anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effect in vitro and in vivo. SC-60 substantially increased SH2 domain-containing phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) phosphatase activity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and purified SHP-1 proteins, suggesting that SC-60 affects SHP-1 directly. Molecular docking and truncated mutants of SHP-1 further confirmed that SC-60 interferes with the inhibitory N-SH2 domain to relieve the closed catalytic protein tyrosine phosphatase domain of SHP-1. Deletion of N-SH2 domain (dN1) or point mutation (D61A) of SHP-1 abolished the effect of SC-60 on SHP-1, p-STAT3, and apoptosis. Importantly, SC-60 exhibited significant survival benefits compared with sorafenib in a hepatocellular carcinoma orthotopic model via targeting the SHP-1/STAT3–related signaling pathway. In summary, dimer derivative of sorafenib, SC-60, is a SHP-1 agonist and may be a potent reagent for hepatocellular carcinoma–targeted therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(1); 27–36. ©2013 AACR.
Tumor Subtype-Specific Cancer–Testis Antigens as Potential Biomarkers and Immunotherapeutic Targets for Cancers
Authors: Yao Jun , Caballero Otavia L. , Yung W.K. Alfred , Weinstein John N. , Riggins Gregory J. , Strausberg Robert L. , Zhao Qi
Published: November 2013

Cancer–testis (CT) antigens are potential targets for cancer immunotherapy because of their restricted expression in immune-privileged germ cells and various malignancies. Current application of CT-based immunotherapy has been focused on CT expression–rich tumors such as melanoma and lung cancers. In this study, we surveyed CT expression using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets for ten common cancer types. We show that CT expression is specific and enriched within certain cancer molecular subtypes. For example, HORMAD1, CXorf61, ACTL8, and PRAME are highly enriched in the basal subtype of breast cancer; MAGE and CSAG are most frequently activated in the magnoid subtype of lung adenocarcinoma; and PRAME is highly upregulated in the ccB subtype of clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Analysis of CT gene expression and DNA methylation indicates that some CTs are regulated epigenetically, whereas others are controlled primarily by tissue- and subtype-specific transcription factors. Our results suggest that although for some CT expression is associated with patient outcome, not many are independent prognostic markers. Thus, CTs with shared expression pattern are heterogeneous molecules with distinct activation modes and functional properties in different cancers and cancer subtypes. These data suggest a cancer subtype–orientated application of CT antigen as biomarkers and immunotherapeutic targets. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(4); 371–9. ©2013 AACR.
Facial Exercises for Facial Rejuvenation: A Control Group Study
Authors: De Vos Marie-Camille , Van den Brande Helen , Boone Barbara , Van Borsel John
Published: November 2013

Objective: Facial exercises are a noninvasive alternative to medical approaches to facial rejuvenation. Logopedists could be involved in providing these exercises. Little research has been conducted, however, on the effectiveness of exercises for facial rejuvenation. This study assessed the effectiveness of 4 exercises purportedly reducing wrinkles and sagging of the facial skin. Method: A control group study was conducted with 18 participants, 9 of whom (the experimental group) underwent daily training for 7 weeks. Pictures taken before and after 7 weeks of 5 facial areas (forehead, nasolabial folds, area above the upper lip, jawline and area under the chin) were evaluated by a panel of laypersons. In addition, the participants of the experimental group evaluated their own pictures. Evaluation included the pairwise presentation of pictures before and after 7 weeks and scoring of the same pictures by means of visual analogue scales in a random presentation. Results: Only one significant difference was found between the control and experimental group. In the experimental group, the picture after therapy of the upper lip was more frequently chosen to be the younger-looking one by the panel. Conclusion: It cannot be concluded that facial exercises are effective. More systematic research is needed.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Small-for-Gestational-Age Neonates: A Matched Case-Control Study
Authors: Ree Isabelle M.C. , Smits-Wintjens Vivianne E.H.J. , Rijntjes-Jacobs Esther G.J. , Pelsma Iris C.M. , Steggerda Sylke J. , Walther Frans J. , Lopriore Enrico
Published: November 2013

Background: Small for gestational age (SGA) neonates are at increased risk of mortality and morbidity, including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), but detailed information on the incidence and risk factors of NEC in SGA neonates is lacking. Objective: This study aims to estimate the incidence of NEC in a large cohort of SGA neonates, compared to appropriate for gestational age (AGA) neonates. Methods: We included all SGA neonates without congenital malformations admitted to our neonatal nursery between 2004 and 2013. Neonates in the SGA group were matched for gestational age with a control group of AGA neonates admitted during the same study period. We recorded the occurrence of NEC and studied the association with SGA and other potential risk factors. Results: A total of 475 SGA neonates were matched for gestational age at birth to 475 control AGA neonates. The incidence of NEC in the SGA group was 3.2% (15/475) versus 1.3% (6/475) in the AGA group (OR 2.55, 95% CI 0.98-6.63, p = 0.047). The incidence of NEC in the subgroups with mild, moderate and severe SGA was 2.3% (5/215), 4.7% (5/1.07) and 3.2% (5/153), respectively (p = 0.531). Conclusions: The risk of development of NEC is more than twofold increased in SGA neonates compared to AGA neonates. We found no association between the severity of SGA and NEC.
The Hippo Pathway Is Activated and Is a Causal Mechanism for Adipogenesis in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Suet Nee , Gurha Priyatansh , Lombardi Raffaella , Ruggiero Alessandra , Willerson James T. , Marian A.J.
Published: November 2013

Rationale:

Mutations in the intercalated disc proteins, such as plakophilin 2 (PKP2), cause arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (AC). AC is characterized by the replacement of cardiac myocytes by fibro-adipocytes, cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias, and sudden death.

Objective:

To delineate the molecular pathogenesis of AC.

Methods and Results:

Localization and levels of selected intercalated disc proteins, including signaling molecules, were markedly reduced in human hearts with AC. Altered protein constituents of intercalated discs were associated with activation of the upstream Hippo molecules in the human hearts, in
Nkx2.5-Cre:Dsp
W/F
and
Myh6:Jup
mouse models of AC, and in the PKP2 knockdown HL-1 myocytes (HL-1
PKP2:shRNA
). Level of active protein kinase C-α isoform, which requires PKP2 for activity, was reduced. In contrast, neurofibromin 2 (or Merlin), a molecule upstream of the Hippo pathway and that is inactivated by protein kinase C-α isoform, was activated. Consequently, the downstream Hippo molecules mammalian STE20-like protein kinases 1/2 (MST1/2), large tumor suppressor kinases 1/2 (LATS1/2), and Yes-associated protein (YAP) (the latter is the effector of the pathway) were phosphorylated. Coimmunoprecipitation detected binding of phosphorylated YAP, phosphorylated β-catenin, and junction protein plakoglobin (the latter translocated from the junction). RNA sequencing, transcript quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and reporter assays showed suppressed activity of SV40 transcriptional enhancer factor domain (TEAD) and transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2), which are transcription factors of the Hippo and the canonical Wnt signaling, respectively. In contrast, adipogenesis was enhanced. Simultaneous knockdown of
Lats1/2
, molecules upstream to YAP, rescued inactivation of YAP and β-catenin and adipogenesis in the HL-1
PKP2:shRNA
myocytes.

Conclusions:

Molecular remodeling of the intercalated discs leads to pathogenic activation of the Hippo pathway, suppression of the canonical Wnt signaling, and enhanced adipogenesis in AC. The findings offer novel mechanisms for the pathogenesis of AC.
Measurement Error Corrected Sodium and Potassium Intake Estimation Using 24-Hour Urinary Excretion
Authors: Huang Ying , Van Horn Linda , Tinker Lesley F. , Neuhouser Marian L. , Carbone Laura , Mossavar-Rahmani Yasmin , Thomas Fridtjof , Prentice Ross L.
Published: November 2013

Epidemiological studies of the association of sodium and potassium intake with cardiovascular disease risk have almost exclusively relied on self-reported dietary data. Here, 24-hour urinary excretion assessments are used to correct the dietary self-report data for measurement error under the assumption that 24-hour urine recovery provides a biomarker that differs from usual intake according to a classical measurement model. Under this assumption, dietary self-reports underestimate sodium by 0% to 15%, overestimate potassium by 8% to 15%, and underestimate sodium/potassium ratio by ≈20% using food frequency questionnaires, 4-day food records, or three 24-hour dietary recalls in Women’s Health Initiative studies. Calibration equations are developed by linear regression of log-transformed 24-hour urine assessments on corresponding log-transformed self-report assessments and several study subject characteristics. For each self-report method, the calibration equations turned out to depend on race and age and strongly on body mass index. After adjustment for temporal variation, calibration equations using food records or recalls explained 45% to 50% of the variation in (log-transformed) 24-hour urine assessments for sodium, 60% to 70% of the variation for potassium, and 55% to 60% of the variation for sodium/potassium ratio. These equations may be suitable for use in epidemiological disease association studies among postmenopausal women. The corresponding signals from food frequency questionnaire data were weak, but calibration equations for the ratios of sodium and potassium/total energy explained ≈35%, 50%, and 45% of log-biomarker variation for sodium, potassium, and their ratio, respectively, after the adjustment for temporal biomarker variation and may be suitable for cautious use in epidemiological studies.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00000611.
Effect of Sleep Apnea and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Cardiac Structure and Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Neilan Tomas G. , Farhad Hoshang , Dodson John A. , Shah Ravi V. , Abbasi Siddique A. , Bakker Jessie P. , Michaud Gregory F. , van der Geest Rob , Blankstein Ron , Steigner Michael , John Roy M. , Jerosch‐Herold Michael , Malhotra Atul , Kwong Raymond Y.
Published: November 2013

Background

Sleep apnea (
SA
) is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (
AF
). We sought to determine the effect of
SA
on cardiac structure in patients with
AF
, whether therapy for
SA
was associated with beneficial cardiac structural remodelling, and whether beneficial cardiac structural remodelling translated into a reduced risk of recurrence of
AF
after pulmonary venous isolation (
PVI
).

Methods and Results

A consecutive group of 720 patients underwent a cardiac magnetic resonance study before
PVI
. Patients with
SA
(n=142, 20%) were more likely to be male, diabetic, and hypertensive and have an increased pulmonary artery pressure, right ventricular volume, atrial dimensions, and left ventricular mass. Treated
SA
was defined as duration of continuous positive airway pressure therapy of >4 hours per night. Treated
SA
patients (n=71, 50%) were more likely to have paroxysmal
AF
, a lower blood pressure, lower ventricular mass, and smaller left atrium. During a follow‐up of 42 months,
AF
recurred in 245 patients. The cumulative incidence of
AF
recurrence was 51% in patients with
SA
, 30% in patients without
SA
, 68% in patients with untreated
SA
, and 35% in patients with treated
SA
. In a multivariable model, the presence of
SA
(
hazard ratio
2.79,
CI
1.97 to 3.94,
P<
0.0001) and untreated
SA
(
hazard ratio
1.61,
CI
1.35 to 1.92,
P<
0.0001) were highly associated with
AF
recurrence.

Conclusions

Patients with
SA
have an increased blood pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, right ventricular volume, left atrial size, and left ventricular mass. Therapy with
continuous positive airway pressure
is associated with lower blood pressure, atrial size, and ventricular mass, and a lower risk of
AF
recurrence after
PVI
.
Assessing Legal Advocacy to Advance Roma Health in Macedonia, Romania, and Serbia
Authors: Abdikeeva Alphia , Ezer Tamar , Covaci Alina
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Across Europe, Roma suffer extreme marginalisation, negatively impacting their health. Many cannot access healthcare at all. For others, the health system is a hostile place. At the same time, good legal frameworks are in place to protect health rights, and there is increasing recognition of systemic violations experienced by Roma. Essential to building on this momentum and closing the gap between standards and implementation is Roma ability to conduct legal advocacy. Since 2010, the Open Society Foundations has supported Roma engagement in Macedonia, Romania and Serbia in the following advocacy strategies: i) legal empowerment, ii) documentation and advocacy, iii) media advocacy, and iv) strategic litigation. This article presents a framework developed to evaluate the effectiveness of these efforts and a baseline against which outcomes can be measured in a few years. The evaluation framework provides a qualitative assessment of Roma capacity, accountability for violations, changes in law and practice, and impact on communities. Findings reveal that that presently Roma lack knowledge of their rights and rarely challenge violations. Accountability in healthcare is practically non-existent. However, where legal advocacy has been used, violations decrease, and power dynamics shift. As healthcare becomes more responsive to communities, it also better serves non-Roma citizens.
A new species of Gamasiphis Berlese (Acari: Ologamasidae) from Russia (Sakhalin and Kuril Islands) with a key to the Asian species
Authors: MARCHENKO IRINA I.
Published: November 2013

Gamasiphis ochotensis sp. n. is described based on the morphology of females and males collected from litter and soil in the Sakhalin and Kuril Islands of Far East Russia. A key for the separation of females of 10 recognisable species of Gamasiphis distributed in Asia is provided.
A new genus and species of Leptocheliidae (Crustacea: Peracarida: Tanaidacea) from Isla del Coco (Costa Rica)
Authors: ESQUETE PATRICIA , SIBAJA-CORDERO JEFFREY A. , TRONCOSO JESÚS S.
Published: November 2013

Samples from the scarcely-studied sedimentary seabed from the Isla del Coco (Costa Rica) yielded a single species of Tanaidacea, belonging to a new genus of Leptocheliidae, Cocotanais. The new genus shows affinities with Pseudonototanais and Heterotanais in bearing a conspicuous forcipate cheliped in the males, which in Cocotanais has a modified merus and carpal flange. Other distinct characters of the males are a triangular cephalothorax, a three-articled antennular peduncle and swollen bases of pereopods 4–6. Females have a four-articled antennule, a maxilliped endite with three distal flat spines and two inner coupling hooks, and a maxilliped basis with two long setae. The species was found in sheltered bays, both free-living in the sediment and also as a commensal of anemones (Infraorder Boloceroidaria), thus representing the first reported case of such an association.
Treatment of Late-Onset Hearing Loss in Infants With Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Amir Jacob , Attias Joseph , Pardo Joseph
Published: November 2013

Objective. To evaluate the effect of antiviral treatment on late-onset hearing loss in infants with congenital cytomegalovirus infection. Design. The database of all infants who had normal hearing at birth, and treated for late-onset hearing loss was collected. The primary study endpoint was the need for a cochlear implant at the last follow-up visit. Results. Twenty-one infants met the inclusion criteria. Brain stem–evoked response audiometry testing revealed hearing loss in 35 of 42 ears (83%). Mean age at diagnosis of hearing loss was 7.4 ± 3.7 months and onset of antiviral therapy 10.3 ± 7.8 months. None of the ears showed further deterioration as referred to pretreatment values. Hearing thresholds improved in 29 ears (69%). None of the patients needed a cochlear implant. Conclusions. In children with late-onset hearing loss due to cytomegalovirus infection, antiviral treatment appears to prevent further deterioration and produce improvement. Controlled studies are needed to verify this observation.
Utilizing the Theoretical Framework of Collective Identity to Understand Processes in Youth Programs
Authors: Futch Valerie A.
Published: November 2013

This article explores collective identity as a useful theoretical framework for understanding social and developmental processes that occur in youth programs. Through narrative analysis of past participant interviews ( n = 21) from an after-school theater program, known as The SOURCE, it was found that participants very clearly describe a collective “member” identity. Aspects of the collective identity become psychological assets that participants are able to recall at later points in their lives—in their future roles as college roommates, parents, teachers, nurses, and so on. Findings suggest that collaboratively and purposefully crafting a collective identity provides youth programs with a useful way to cultivate meaningful results of participation for current members as well as provide an underlying identity framework that past participants can build on in new social arenas as emerging adults.
Commentary on “The New Metropolitan History”
Authors: Lewinnek Elaine
Published: November 2013

An analysis of the roles of corporate capital, home owners, and racialized groups in the three case studies presented in this special section of “The New Metropolitan History.”
Item Selection Methods Based on Multiple Objective Approaches for Classifying Respondents Into Multiple Levels
Authors: van Groen Maaike M. , Eggen Theo J. H. M. , Veldkamp Bernard P.
Published: November 2013

Computerized classification tests classify examinees into two or more levels while maximizing accuracy and minimizing test length. The majority of currently available item selection methods maximize information at one point on the ability scale, but in a test with multiple cutting points selection methods could take all these points simultaneously into account. If for each cutting point one objective is specified, the objectives can be combined into one optimization function using multiple objective approaches. Simulation studies were used to compare the efficiency and accuracy of eight selection methods in a test based on the sequential probability ratio test. Small differences were found in accuracy and efficiency between different methods depending on the item pool and settings of the classification method. The size of the indifference region had little influence on accuracy but considerable influence on efficiency. Content and exposure control had little influence on accuracy and efficiency.
The Entrapment of Africa within the Global Colonial Matrices of Power
Authors: Ndlovu-Gatsheni Sabelo J.
Published: November 2013

This article deploys world-systems analysis and the concept of coloniality to examine the experience of the African people within the modern world-system since 1492, a date that figuratively marks the birth of the modern world-system and its shifting international orders. Africa’s experience is contextualized within six international orders: the post-1492 order, the Westphalian order that emerged in 1648, the post-1884–1885 Berlin consensus, the post-1945 United Nations normative order, the Cold War epoch that ended in 1989, the current neoliberal dispensation as well as the post 9/11 anti-terrorism and securitization. While Africans have actively contested Euro–North American hegemony throughout these periods, they have not yet succeeded in breaking the strong global technologies of coloniality that continue to prevent the possibilities of African agency. This is why this article ends with a call for deepening the decolonization and deimperialization of the international order in the twenty-first century.