bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mining and Quality Assessment of Mashup Model Patterns with the Crowd
Authors: Rodríguez Carlos , Daniel Florian , Casati Fabio
Published: June 2016

Pattern mining, that is, the automated discovery of patterns from data, is a mathematically complex and computationally demanding problem that is generally not manageable by humans. In this article, we focus on small datasets and study whether it is possible to mine patterns with the help of the crowd by means of a set of controlled experiments on a common crowdsourcing platform. We specifically concentrate on mining model patterns from a dataset of real mashup models taken from Yahoo! Pipes and cover the entire pattern mining process, including pattern identification and quality assessment. The results of our experiments show that a sensible design of crowdsourcing tasks indeed may enable the crowd to identify patterns from small datasets (40 models). The results, however, also show that the design of tasks for the assessment of the quality of patterns to decide which patterns to retain for further processing and use is much harder (our experiments fail to elicit assessments from the crowd that are similar to those by an expert). The problem is relevant in general to model-driven development (e.g., UML, business processes, scientific workflows), in that reusable model patterns encode valuable modeling and domain knowledge, such as best practices, organizational conventions, or technical choices, that modelers can benefit from when designing their own models.
Should you upload or ship big data to the cloud?
Authors: Date Sachin
Published: June 2016

The accepted wisdom does not always hold true.
A Model for Phase Transition of Random Answer-Set Programs
Authors: Wen Lian , Wang Kewen , Shen Yi-Dong , Lin Fangzhen
Published: June 2016

The critical behaviors of NP-complete problems have been studied extensively, and numerous results have been obtained for Boolean formula satisfiability (SAT) and constraint satisfaction (CSP), among others. However, few results are known for the critical behaviors of NP-hard nonmonotonic reasoning problems so far; in particular, a mathematical model for phase transition in nonmonotonic reasoning is still missing. In this article, we investigate the phase transition of negative two-literal logic programs under the answer-set semantics. We choose this class of logic programs since it is the simplest class for which the consistency problem of deciding if a program has an answer set is still NP-complete. We first introduce a new model, called quadratic model for generating random logic programs in this class. We then mathematically prove that the consistency problem for this class of logic programs exhibits a phase transition. Furthermore, the phase-transition follows an easy-hard-easy pattern. Given the correspondence between answer sets for negative two-literal programs and kernels for graphs, as a corollary, our result significantly generalizes de la Vega's well-known theorem for phase transition on the existence of kernels in random graphs. We also report some experimental results. Given our mathematical results, these experimental results are not really necessary. We include them here as they suggest that our phase-transition result is more general and likely holds for more general classes of logic programs.
Graph matching in theory and practice
Authors: Savage Neil
Published: June 2016

A theoretical breakthrough in graph isomorphism excites complexity experts, but will it lead to any practical improvements?
Booming enrollments
Authors: Fisher Lawrence M.
Published: June 2016

The Computing Research Association works to quantify the extent, and causes, of a jump in undergraduate computer science enrollments.
On the Evolution of Software and Systems Product Line Standards
Authors: Chimalakonda Sridhar , Lee Dan Hyung
Published: June 2016

Software product lines (SPL) have evolved from being a niche research topic to a well-established approach towards development of a family of software-intensive systems, promising better quality in shorter time and less cost. The hall of fame initiative of a 16 year running conference on SPL recognizes exemplary examples of successful application of SPL in practice. However, despite these advances, SPL are seen as quite effort intensive requiring huge initial investments and are not considered as mainstream software development. One of the primary reasons for this is the
lack of standardized tools and methods
to support development, maintenance and management of SPL. Specifically, every software product line is considered as a stand-alone project with custom tools and methods developed in most of the cases. This leads to a number of diversified, inconsistent and incompatible tools making it difficult to develop new tools or to choose from existing set of tools. It is here that the working group 4 (WG4) of the seventh subcommittee (SC7) titled "Software and Systems Engineering" of the Joint ISO/IEC Technical Committee (JTC1) of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has proposed a set of interrelated standards in the area of software and systems product lines (SSPL). In this report, we briefly outline the stateof-the-art in software product line tools and motivate the need for standardized tools and methods. We then provide an overview of SSPL standards based on our experience in the last several years. We finally conclude by inviting the entire software engineering community and practitioners to get involved in the critical analysis and creation of SSPLstandards and propel their use in both academia and industry.
The 3rd Workshop on Social and Algorithmic Issues in Business Support
Authors: Wojciechowski Adam , Mishra Alok
Published: June 2016

This is a report from the 3rd International Workshop on "Social and Algorithmic Issues in Business Support" (SAIBS), which was organized in conjunction with the 7th Language and Technology Conference in Poznan, Poland, on November 28, 2015. The main issue focused in research papers presented during the workshop was deriving knowledge from various text artifacts and converting the data into algorithms to use it in a systematic way in parallel cases.

Utilizing social wisdom begins with observation of human behavior, analysis of artifacts, building paradigms on statistical models and converting them into algorithms. Social trend observed in XXI century, networking and business activity has several sources. A base for rapid growth is accessible technology. But the force that drives people to active contribution is an everyday challenge to become recognizable and rich. Crowd creativity is a process of merging efforts and distributed resources in order to produce new quality and new products. Utilizing social energy and productivity provides beginning to new business paradigms, which converted into algorithms, may be applied in various domains. The 3rd SAIBS Workshop was a place to discuss methods of knowledge discovery in text resources and other artifacts as well as analysis of human behavior materialized and documented in databases and artifacts. An accent was focused on utilization and commercial benefit coming from analysis and converting knowledge into algorithms.
Colocation as a Hybrid ICT Sourcing Strategy to Improve Operational Agility
Authors: Beck Roman , Pahlke Immanuel , Vykoukal Jens
Published: June 2016

Fast access to communication networks and the availability of high-performance information and com-munication technology (ICT) infrastructures is indis-pensable for accelerating business transactions. Yet with increased environmental volatility, companies need to become more agile in identifying and responding to market- and technology-based challenges. Accordingly, a responsive and high-performance ICT infrastructure remains a top priority for firms. Thus, new ICT sourcing strategies may lead to significant competitive advantages, especially in dynamic business environments. This article analyzes a hybrid ICT sourcing strategy called colocation that allows firms to operate their own ICT resources in facilities of special-ized data center providers. Grounded in the theory of dynamic capabilities, we theorize and empirically ex-amine how colocation and top management support enable firms to improve their operational agility in the presence of environmental turbulence.
The Sourcing of Software Services
Authors: Dibbern Jens , Chin Wynne W. , Kude Thomas
Published: June 2016

Transaction cost economics (TCE) is the most prominent theory for studying questions surrounding information systems (IS) outsourcing. Its most widely tested argument is that client-specific services are rather kept in-house due to the high transaction costs which arise for safeguarding against opportunistic behavior. However, empirical support for this argument has so far been inconclusive. We seek to resolve this inconsistency by following two recommendations in prior literature. First, we extend TCE by considering trust differences between internal employees and vendor staff as a context factor. Second, we explicitly account for TCE's economic rationale by acknowledging that client-specific knowledge influences both transaction cost and production cost differences between in-house and outsourced IS services. Using data from 139 organizations on the sourcing of software development and maintenance services, we found support for our theoretical extension. For IS services requiring client-specific knowledge, in-house transaction cost advantages were particularly high if more trust was put in in-house personnel compared to vendor staff. Production costs were generally lower in-house when knowledge specificity was high. Both in-house transaction and production cost advantages were associated with lower degrees of outsourcing. The results explicate an important boundary condition of TCE and help shed light on the so far inconclusive empirical results regarding the role of asset specificity in explaining IS outsourcing decisions. The insights help decision makers by providing a better understanding of the economics of IS sourcing and the important role of trust.
Performance Comparison between Neutralization Tailings and Flotation Tailings Used for Backfill Mix and Mechanism Analysis
Authors: Han Bin , Sun Wei , Yu Shaofeng , Liu Chao , Yao Song , Wu Jianxun
Published: June 2016

A comparison test of different tailings used for underground backfill was conducted, using neutralized tailings from BIOX and flotation tailings of Jinfeng Mine. Laboratory comparison test results show that, with neutralized tailings, when the cement dosage is at 19%, backfill UCS after 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days are 105%–163%, 80%–102%, and 33%–43%, respectively, which are higher than those of flotation tailings. When the cement dosage is at 12%, backfill UCS after 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days are 58%–77%, 50%–60%, and 28%–51%, respectively, which are higher than those of flotation tailings. Slurry fluidity of neutralized tailings is lower than that of flotation tailings, while, in these two tailings, the difference of slump and diffusivity values is less than 6%, which is not a significant difference in slurry fluidity. The reason for neutralized tailings showing higher UCS is as follows: during backfill curing, neutralization tailings produce abundant crystals of CaSO4·2H2O in interlaced structure which helps in combining aggregates closely; CaSO4·2H2O hydrates with C3A C4AF contained in the cement and forms clavate cement bacillus which works as a micro reinforcing steel bar. The test proved that neutralized tailings are more optimal for backfilling.
Removal of Deeply Impacted Mandibular Molars by Sagittal Split Osteotomy
Authors: Cansiz Erol , Isler Sabri Cemil , Gultekin B. Alper
Published: June 2016

Mandibular third molars are the most common impacted teeth. Mandibular first and second molars do not share the same frequency of occurrence. In rare cases the occlusal surfaces of impacted molars are united by the same follicular space and the roots pointing in opposite direction; these are called kissing molars. In some cases, a supernumerary fourth molar can be seen as unerupted and, in this case, such a supernumerary, deeply impacted fourth molar is seen neighboring kissing molars. The extraction of deeply impacted wisdom molars from the mandible may necessitate excessive bone removal and it causes complications such as damage to the inferior alveolar nerve and iatrogenic fractures of the mandible. This case report describes the use of the sagittal split osteotomy technique to avoid extensive bone removal and protect the inferior alveolar nerve during surgical extruction of multiple impacted teeth.
Compactly Supported Tight and Sibling Frames Based on Generalized Bernstein Polynomials
Authors: Cheng Ting , Yang Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2016

We obtain a family of refinable functions based on generalized Bernstein polynomials to provide derived properties. The convergence of cascade algorithms associated with the new masks is proved, which guarantees the existence of refinable functions. Then, we analyze the symmetry, regularity, and approximation order of the refinable functions, which are of importance. Tight and sibling frames are constructed and interorthogonality of sibling frames is demonstrated. Finally, we give numerical examples to explicitly illustrate the construction of the proposed approach.
A New Microstructure Development Model for the Evaluation of Concrete Setting Time
Authors: Cho Ho-Jin , Kang Joo-Won , Ahn Yong Han , Kim Sunkook , Wang Xiao-Yong
Published: June 2016

Concrete is an exceptionally attractive construction material, with stable material supply, adequate fire resistance, and high durability. Its plasticity can be both an advantage and a disadvantage from an engineering point of view, providing versatile shapes via casting and hardening but also requiring a relatively long period of time to reach its design strength. The setting time, or hardening period, needed before the freshly poured concrete can carry a load, which begins once the hydration reaction has commenced, is a key parameter for durability since it directly affects cracking resistance in early-aged concrete. The new analysis technique for calculating setting time that was developed for this study utilizes both percolation theory and the strength development model. To verify the analytical results obtained using the new model, a critical volume ratio of hydrates was determined and a series of final setting times in concrete were experimentally investigated for different temperatures, mineral admixtures (FA: fly ash; GGBFS: ground granulated blast furnace slag), and a chemical admixture (superplasticizer). The results were found to be in good agreement with the model predictions, confirming its potential utility.
Effects of Dietary Strawberry Supplementation on Antioxidant Biomarkers in Obese Adults with Above Optimal Serum Lipids
Authors: Basu Arpita , Morris Stacy , Nguyen Angel , Betts Nancy M. , Fu Dongxu , Lyons Timothy J.
Published: June 2016

Berries have shown several cardiovascular health benefits and have been associated with antioxidant functions in experimental models. Clinical studies are limited. We examined the antioxidant effects of freeze-dried strawberries (FDS) in adults [n=60; age:49±10years; BMI:36±5 kg/m2(mean ± SD)] with abdominal adiposity and elevated serum lipids. Participants were randomized to one of the following arms: low dose strawberry (25 g/day FDS), low dose control beverage (LD-C), high dose strawberry (50 g/d FDS), and high dose control beverage (HD-C) for 12 weeks. Control beverages were matched for calories and total fiber. Plasma antioxidant capacity, trace elements (copper, iron, selenium, and zinc), whole blood glutathione (GSH), and enzyme activity (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase) were examined at screening (0 week) and after 12 weeks’ intervention. At 12 weeks, plasma antioxidant capacity and glutathione levels were higher in the strawberry versus control groups (low and high dose FDS: 45% and 42% for plasma antioxidant capacity and 28% and 36% for glutathione, resp.); glutathione was higher in the high versus low dose strawberry group (allp<0.05). Serum catalase activity was higher in the low dose strawberry (43%) versus control group (p<0.01). No differences were noted in plasma trace elements and glutathione enzyme activity. Dietary strawberries may selectively increase plasma antioxidant biomarkers in obese adults with elevated lipids.
Increasing Access and Adherence to the PMTCT Cascade: Is There a Role for Economic Strengthening Interventions?
Authors: Yacobson Irina , Malkin Morrisa , Lebetkin Elena
Published: June 2016

Interventions aimed at prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV are extremely effective but remain underutilized in many countries. Common economic barriers to PMTCT experienced by pregnant women with HIV are well documented. Addressing these economic barriers has a potential to improve PMTCT utilization and further reduce mother-to-child HIV transmission. This review examines the evidence of the effects economic strengthening (ES) interventions have on use of and adherence to PMTCT and other health services relevant to PMTCT cascade. While very few studies on ES interventions were conducted in PMTCT settings, the results of a recent randomised trial demonstrate that conditional cash transfers offered to women in PMTCT programme can significantly improve retention in care and adherence to treatment. This review also considers evidence on ES interventions conducted within other health care settings relevant to PMTCT cascade. While the evidence from other settings is promising, it may not be fully applicable to PMTCT and more quality research on ES interventions among population of pregnant women with HIV is needed. Answering some of the research questions formulated by this review can provide more evidence for programme implementers and guide decisions about how to increase women’s use of and adherence to PMTCT services.
Improving the Performance of a Semitransparent BIPV by Using High-Reflectivity Heat Insulation Film
Authors: Liu Huei-Mei , Young Chin-Huai , Horng Der-Juinn , Shiue Yih-Chearng , Lee Shin-Ku
Published: June 2016

Currently, standard semitransparent photovoltaic (PV) modules can largely replace architectural glass installed in the windows, skylights, and facade of a building. Their main features are power generation and transparency, as well as possessing a heat insulating effect. Through heat insulation solar glass (HISG) encapsulation technology, this study improved the structure of a typical semitransparent PV module and explored the use of three types of high-reflectivity heat insulation films to form the HISG building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) systems. Subsequently, the authors analyzed the influence of HISG structures on the optical, thermal, and power generation performance of the original semitransparent PV module and the degree to which enhanced performance is possible. The experimental results indicated that the heat insulation performance and power generation of HISGs were both improved. Selecting an appropriate heat insulation film so that a larger amount of reflective solar radiation is absorbed by the back side of the HISG can yield greater enhancement of power generation. The numerical results conducted in this study also indicated that HISG BIPV system not only provides the passive energy needed for power loading in a building, but also decreases the energy consumption of the HVAC system in subtropical and temperate regions.
A Distortion-Free Data Hiding Scheme for Triangular Meshes Based on Recursive Subdivision
Authors: Tsai Yuan-Yu
Published: June 2016

This study adopts a triangle subdivision scheme to achieve reversible data embedding. The secret message is embedded into the newly added vertices. The topology of added vertex is constructed by connecting it with the vertices of located triangle. For further raising the total embedding capacity, a recursive subdivision mechanism, terminated by a given criterion, is employed. Finally, a principal component analysis can make the stego model against similarity transformation and vertex/triangle reordering attacks. Our proposed algorithm can provide a high and adjustable embedding capacity with reversibility. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of our proposed algorithm.
Effect of Aurantii Fructus Immaturus Flavonoid on the Contraction of Isolated Gastric Smooth Muscle Strips in Rats
Authors: Wu Zhenyu , Zhang Shengsheng , Li Peicai , Lu Xiaofang , Wang Jiajia , Zhao Luqing , Wang Yueqi
Published: June 2016

This study was designed to investigate the effect of Aurantii fructus immaturus flavonoid (AFIF) on the contraction of isolated gastric smooth muscle in rats and explore its underlying mechanisms. Isolated antral longitudinal smooth muscle strip (ALSMS) and pyloric circular smooth muscle strip (PCSMS) of rats were suspended in tissue chambers. The responses of ALSMS and PCSMS to administration of AFIF were observed. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and protein kinase G (PKG) levels of PCSMS were measured by ELISA kits. In this study, AFIF showed no significant effect on ALSMS contraction, but it dose‐dependently reduced the mean contraction amplitude of PCSMS. When the concentration of AFIF reached 3000 μg/mL, 6000 μg/mL, and 10000 μg/mL, its inhibitory effect on PCSMS contraction was significant. This effect of AFIF was weakened in Ca2+‐rich environment. And Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl (L‐NAME), the inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), significantly inhibited AFIF’s action in comparison with control (P < 0.05). After incubation with AFIF for 30 min, levels of cGMP and PKG in PCSMS were significantly increased compared with control (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that AFIF has a dose‐dependent diastolic effect on PCSMS in rats, which may be related to the regulatory pathway of NO/cGMP/PKG/Ca2+.
The Frequency of Langerhans Isletsβ-Cells Autoantibodies (Anti-GAD) in Georgian Children and Adolescents with Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Balakhadze Mariam , Giorgadze Elene , Lomidze Marina
Published: June 2016

Aim. Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and type 1 diabetes mellitus are organ-specific autoimmune diseases. There is large evidence that autoimmunity against the thyroid gland in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus is increased, but little is known about anti-islet cell autoimmune status in patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. We evaluated the concentration of antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) which are widely used as a diagnostic and predictive tool for type 1 diabetes mellitus, in school-aged Georgian children with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis.Methods. The frequency of anti-GAD antibodies was measured in Georgian school-aged children with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and compared to healthy age and sex matched controls.Results. Of the 41 patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis 4 (9.8%) were positive for GAD antibodies. The frequency of GAD positivity in the chronic autoimmune thyroiditis group was significantly higher than in the control subjects (P=0.036).Conclusion. In the study we found that the frequency of GAD antibody positivity in autoimmune thyroiditis patients was significantly higher (9.8%,P=0.036) than in the control group. Our findings support the concept that patients with autoimmune thyroid disease may develop type 1 diabetes mellitus in future life.
Reducing Societal Obesity: Establishing a Separate Exercise Model through Studies of Group Behavior
Authors: Puterbaugh J. S.
Published: June 2016

The past 50 years has brought attention to high and increasing levels of human obesity in most of the industrialized world. The medical profession has noticed, has evaluated, and has developed models for studying, preventing, and reversing obesity. The current model prescribes activity in specific quantities such as days, minutes, heart rates, and footfalls. Although decreased levels of activity have come from changes revolving around built environments and social networks, the existing medical model to lower body weights by increasing activity remains individually prescriptive. It is not working. The study of societal obesity precludes the individual and must involve group behavioral studies. Such studies necessitate acquiring separate tools and, therefore, require a significant change in the evaluation and treatment of obesity. Finding groups with common activities and lower levels of obesity would allow the development of new models of land use and encourage active lifestyles through shared interests.
Presence of an Isolated Hydatid Cyst in the Left Kidney: Report of a Case of This Rare Condition Managed Surgically
Authors: Paramythiotis Daniel , Bangeas Petros , Kofina Konstantinia , Papadopoulos Vassileios , Michalopoulos Antonios
Published: June 2016

Introduction.Hydatid cyst disease caused byEchinococcus granulosusis rarely presented in the kidneys, whereas isolated renal occurrence is estimated to be about as low as 2–4% of all cases. We present a case of a female patient suffering from this condition that was treated successfully in our department.Case Presentation.A 44-year-old woman was incidentally diagnosed with a 14 cm left renal cystic mass through ultrasound imaging performed during upper abdominal pain investigation. Laboratory examinations were normal and CT imaging set the diagnosis of an isolated left renal hydatid cyst. The cyst was excised and the postoperative period was uneventful.Discussion.Isolated renal hydatid cyst is a very rare condition and could possibly be misdiagnosed with other renal masses. The clinical history, laboratory tests, and thorough radiologic imaging are crucial for the accurate preoperative diagnosis.
Multiple-Beams Splitter Based on Graphene
Authors: Li Xiao Bing , Xu Hong Ju , Lu Wei Bing , Wang Jian
Published: June 2016

Due to its tunability of conductivity, graphene can be considered as a novel epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) material. Based on this property, we propose a wave splitter using graphene. Simulation results show that the circular surface plasmon polariton waves excited by a point source can be transferred to narrow beams through a graphene-based wave splitter, which is formed by a polygonal contour of the ENZ graphene layer. The number of beams can be easily controlled by adjusting the shape of the polygonal ENZ graphene layer, and the operation frequency can also be chosen.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid Production by Bifidobacteria: Screening, Kinetic, and Composition
Authors: Raimondi Stefano , Amaretti Alberto , Leonardi Alan , Quartieri Andrea , Gozzoli Caterina , Rossi Maddalena
Published: June 2016

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are positional and geometric isomers of linoleic acid involved in a number of health aspects. In humans, CLA production is performed by gut microbiota, including some species of potential probiotic bifidobacteria. 128 strains of 31Bifidobacteriumspecies were screened with a spectrophotometric assay to identify novel CLA producers. Most species were nonproducers, while producers belonged toB. breveandB. pseudocatenulatum. GC-MS revealed that CLA producer strains yielded 9cis,11trans-CLA and 9trans,11trans-CLA, without any production of other isomers. Hydroxylated forms of LA were absent in producer strains, suggesting that the myosin-cross-reactive antigen (MCRA) protein that exerts hydratase activity is not involved in LA isomerization. Moreover, both CLA producer and nonproducer species bear a MCRA homologue. The strainB. breveWC 0421 was the best CLA producer, converting LA into 68.8% 9cis,11trans-CLA and 25.1% 9trans,11trans-CLA. Production occurred mostly during the lag and the exponential phase. For the first time, production and incorporation of CLA in biomass were assessed.B. breveWC 0421 stored CLA in the form of free fatty acids, without changing the composition of the esterified fatty acids, which mainly occurred in the plasmatic membrane.
Do Increased Doses to Stem‐Cell Niches during Radiation Therapy Improve Glioblastoma Survival?
Authors: Adeberg Sebastian , Harrabi Semi Ben , Bougatf Nina , Bernhardt Denise , Mohr Angela , Rieber Juliane , Koelsche Christian , Rieken Stefan , Debus Juergen
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose. The reasons for the inevitable glioblastoma recurrence are yet understood. However, recent data suggest that tumor cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the stem‐cell niches, with self‐renewing capacities, might be responsible for tumor initiation, propagation, and recurrence. We aimed to analyze the effect of higher radiation doses to the stem‐cell niches on progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in glioblastoma patients. Materials and Methods. Sixty‐five patients with primary glioblastoma treated with radiation therapy were included in this retrospective analysis. The SVZ and DG were segmented on treatment planning magnetic resonance imaging, and the dose distributions to the structures were calculated. The relationship of dosimetry data and survival was evaluated using the Cox regression analysis. Results. Conventionally fractionated patients (n = 54) who received higher doses (Dmean ≥ 40 Gy) to the IL SVZ showed improved PFS (8.5 versus 5.2 months; p = 0.013). Furthermore, higher doses (Dmean ≥ 30 Gy) to the CL SVZ were associated with increased PFS (10.1 versus 6.9 months; p = 0.025). Conclusion. Moderate higher IL SVZ doses (≥40 Gy) and CL SVZ doses (≥30 Gy) are associated with improved PFS. Higher doses to the DG, the second stem‐cell niche, did not influence the survival. Targeting the potential cancer stem cells in the SVZ might be a promising treatment approach for glioblastoma and should be addressed in a prospective randomized trial.
Analyses of Physcomitrella patens Ankyrin Repeat Proteins by Computational Approach
Authors: Mahmood Niaz , Tamanna Nahid
Published: June 2016

Ankyrin (ANK) repeat containing proteins are evolutionary conserved and have functions in crucial cellular processes like cell cycle regulation and signal transduction. In this study, through an entirely in silico approach using the first release of the moss genome annotation, we found that at least 54 ANK proteins are present in P. patens. Based on their differential domain composition, the identified ANK proteins were classified into nine subfamilies. Comparative analysis of the different subfamilies of ANK proteins revealed that P. patens contains almost all the known subgroups of ANK proteins found in the other angiosperm species except for the ones having the TPR domain. Phylogenetic analysis using full length protein sequences supported the subfamily classification where the members of the same subfamily almost always clustered together. Synonymous divergence (dS) and nonsynonymous divergence (dN) ratios showed positive selection for the ANK genes of P. patens which probably helped them to attain significant functional diversity during the course of evolution. Taken together, the data provided here can provide useful insights for future functional studies of the proteins from this superfamily as well as comparative studies of ANK proteins.
The Use of Invisalign® System in the Management of the Orthodontic Treatment before and after Class III Surgical Approach
Authors: Pagani Renato , Signorino Fabrizio , Poli Pier Paolo , Manzini Pietro , Panisi Irene
Published: June 2016

The approach to skeletal dysmorphisms in the maxillofacial area usually requires an orthodontic treatment by means of fixed appliances, both before and after the surgical phase. Since its introduction, Invisalign system has become a popular treatment choice for the clinicians because of the aesthetics and comfort of the removable clear aligners compared with the traditional appliances. Therefore, the aim of the present report was to illustrate the management of a malocclusion by means of Invisalign system associated with the traditional surgical technique. The present paper shows a case of a 23-year-old male patient characterized by a Class III malocclusion with lateral deviation of the mandible to the left side and cross-bite on teeth 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4. Invisalign system was used during the pre- and postsurgical phases rather than fixed appliances. The posttreatment cephalometric analysis emphasized the stability of the dental and skeletal symmetry corrections, occlusion and functional balance, over a 6-year follow-up. The results achieved at the end of the treatment showed how Invisalign can be effective in the management of the orthodontic phases in orthognathic surgery. The follow-up after 6 years emphasizes the stability of the treatment over time.
Study of Wireless Authentication Center with Mixed Encryption in WSN
Authors: Lu Yiqin , Zhai Jing , Zhu Ronghuan , Qin Jiancheng
Published: June 2016

WSN (wireless sensor network) has been used in a wide range of applications nowadays. Sensor networks may often relay critical data; thus, security must be a high priority. However, due to their limited computational, energy, and storage resources, sensor nodes are vulnerable to attack. So how to protect sensor nodes from attacks without raising computational capability and energy consumption is a worthwhile issue. A WAC (wireless authentication center) with mixed encryption named “MEWAC” is proposed. MEWAC is based on MCU (Microcontroller Unit) and WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) module and uses RSA, AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), and SHA-1 (Secure Hash Algorithm 1) to provide high performance authentication and data encryption services for sensor nodes. The experimental results show that MEWAC has the advantages of low cost, low power consumption, good performance, and stability; moreover, the authentication protocol improves the security of WSN and reduces the overhead in node authentication.
Uric Acid and Neurocognitive Function in Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treated with Chemotherapy Only
Authors: Cheung Yin Ting , Edelmann Michelle N. , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Green Daniel M. , Chemaitilly Wassim , John Neena , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Krull Kevin R.
Published: June 2016

Background: Hyperuricemia is implicated in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This study evaluated associations between uric acid (UA), cardiovascular health, and neurocognitive function in adolescent and adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with chemotherapy only.

Methods: 126 adolescent [mean (SD) age 14.6 (5.0); 7.8 (1.7) years postdiagnosis] and 226 adult survivors [age 25.4 (4.2) years; 18.1 (4.4) years postdiagnosis] completed comprehensive neurocognitive testing. Concurrent UA measurements were conducted for both groups. For adult survivors, cardiovascular risk factors were assessed, and UA measurements during adolescence [12.3 (4.0) years before neurocognitive testing] were also collected. UA levels were categorized into quartiles for age- and gender-based ranking, and associations with neurocognitive outcomes were examined.

Results: Survivors demonstrated worse attention, processing speed, and executive functions than population norms (P values < 0.05). Adolescent survivors with elevated UA had poorer attention (P = 0.04), visual-processing speed (P = 0.03), and cognitive flexibility (P = 0.02). UA was not associated with neurocognitive outcomes in adult survivors. Adult survivors developed dyslipidemia (46%), hypertension (32%), and abdominal obesity (26%), and high UA during adolescence was associated with these cardiovascular risk factors as adults (all P values < 0.01). Fine-motor processing speed was slower in adult survivors with dyslipidemia (P = 0.04) and abdominal obesity (P = 0.04). Poorer attention was marginally associated with hypertension (P = 0.06).

Conclusions: Elevated UA is associated with neurocognitive performance in adolescent survivors. In adult survivors, relative elevation of UA during adolescence was predictive of cardiovascular health, which was associated with poorer neurocognitive outcomes.

Impact: Future studies should evaluate the mediating role of chronic cardiovascular health conditions between elevated UA and subsequent neurocognitive impairment in survivors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(8); 1259–67. ©2016 AACR.
Confocal Cornea Microscopy Detects Involvement of Corneal Nerve Fibers in a Patient with Light-Chain Amyloid Neuropathy Caused by Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report
Authors: Sturm Dietrich , Schmidt-Wilcke Tobias , Greiner Tineke , Maier Christoph , Schargus Marc , Tegenthoff Martin , Vorgerd Matthias
Published: June 2016

Changes in the subbasal corneal plexus detected by confocal cornea microscopy (CCM) have been described for various types of neuropathy. An involvement of these nerves within light-chain (AL) amyloid neuropathy (a rare cause of polyneuropathy) has never been shown. Here, we report on a case of a patient suffering from neuropathy caused by AL amyloidosis and underlying multiple myeloma. Small-fiber damage was detected by CCM.
CBV_ASPECTS Improvement over CT_ASPECTS on Determining Irreversible Ischemic Lesion Decreases over Time
Authors: Padroni Marina , Boned Sandra , Ribó Marc , Muchada Marian , Rodriguez-Luna David , Coscojuela Pilar , Tomasello Alejandro , Cabero Jordi , Pagola Jorge , Rodriguez-Villatoro Noelia , Juega Jesus M. , Sanjuan Estela , Molina Carlos A. , Rubiera Marta
Published: June 2016

The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) is a useful scoring system for assessing early ischemic signs on noncontrast computed tomography (CT). Cerebral blood volume (CBV) on CT perfusion defines the core lesion assumed to be irreversibly damaged. We aim to explore the advantages of CBV_ASPECTS over CT_ASPECTS in the prediction of final infarct volume according to time. Methods: Consecutive patients with anterior circulation stroke who underwent endovascular reperfusion according to initial CT_ASPECTS ≥7 were studied. CBV_ASPECTS was assessed blindly later on. Recanalization was defined as thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia score 2b-3. Final infarct volumes were measured on follow-up imaging. We compared ASPECTS on CBV and CT images, and defined ASPECTS agreement as: CT_ASPECTS - CBV_ASPECTS ≤1. Results: Sixty-five patients, with a mean age of 67 ± 14 years and a median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 16 (range 10-20), were studied. The recanalization rate was 78.5%. The median CT_ASPECTS was 9 (range 8-10), and the CBV_ASPECTS was 8 (range 8-10). The mean time from symptoms to CT was 219 ± 143 min. Fifty patients (76.9%) showed ASPECTS agreement. The ASPECTS difference was inversely correlated to the time from symptoms to CT (r = -0.36, p < 0.01). A ROC curve defined 120 min as the best cutoff point after which the ASPECTS difference becomes more frequently ≤1. After 120 min, 89.5% of the patients showed ASPECTS agreement (as compared with 37.5% for <120 min, p < 0.01). CBV_ASPECTS but not CT_ASPECTS correlated with final infarct (r = -0.33, p < 0.01). However, if CT was done >2 h after symptom onset, CT_ASPECTS also correlated to final infarct (r = -0.39, p = 0.01). Conclusions: In acute stroke, CBV_ASPECTS correlates with the final infarct volume. However, when CT is performed after 120 min from symptom onset, CBV_ASPECTS does not add relevant information to CT_ASPECTS.
Clopidogrel plus Aspirin for Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kass-Hout Tareq , Winningham Melanie , Kass-Hout Omar , Henriquez Laura , Tong Frank , Dion Jacques , Cawley Michael , Belagaje Samir , Frankel Michael , Anderson Aaron , Nahab Fadi
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose: There are limited data on the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy for secondary stroke prevention in patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease. Methods: Consecutive patients presenting with high-grade (70-99%) symptomatic intracranial stenosis from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2013, and evaluated within 30 days of the index event were eligible for this analysis. All patients underwent treatment with aspirin plus clopidogrel for a target duration of 12 months along with aggressive medical management based on the Stenting and Aggressive Medical Management for Preventing Recurrent Stroke in Intracranial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) protocol; all patients were given gastrointestinal prophylaxis for the duration of their aspirin and clopidogrel treatment. Clinical and safety outcomes of our cohort were compared with the medical arm of the SAMMPRIS trial cohort (n = 227). Results: Our cohort included 25 patients that met the inclusion criteria. Achievement of blood pressure and LDL cholesterol targets were similar between our cohort and the SAMMPRIS cohort. At 1 year, the rates of stroke, myocardial infarction or vascular death were 0% in our cohort and 16% in the SAMMPRIS cohort (p = 0.03). At 1 year, major bleeding rates were similar between our cohort and the SAMMPRIS cohort (4 vs. 2.2%, p = 1.0). Conclusion: A prolonged course of dual antiplatelet therapy for symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease may be associated with less vascular events with no increase in hemorrhagic complications.
Can the New Global Lung Initiative Equations Better Stratify the Risk of Death in Elderly People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?
Authors: Pedone Claudio , Di Marco Berardino Alessandro , Pistelli Riccardo , Forastiere Francesco , Bellia Vincenzo , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele
Published: June 2016

Background: The forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) is commonly expressed as percentage of its value predicted by equations. The most commonly used equations are poorly applicable to elderly people. Recently, a set of equations (Global Lung Initiative, GLI) has been released that is expected to be more appropriate in this population. Objectives: We evaluated the agreement of the GLI, European Respiratory Society (ERS), and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) equations for prediction of FEV1 and compared their discriminative capacity with respect to mortality, taking as reference the prediction equation developed in the population from which our sample was drawn (SARA). Methods: We studied 264 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease aged ≥70 years. Agreement was evaluated using the Bland-Altman method, discriminative capacity using incidence rate ratios for mortality calculated across quartiles of each measure. Results: The mean age of the sample was 75.8 years (72.7% men). In women, the mean FEV1ERS/FEV1SARA, FEV1NHANES/ FEV1SARA, and FEV1GLI/FEV1SARA were 0.81, 0.91, and 0.966, respectively. The corresponding values in men were 0.959, 0.963, and 1.02, respectively. The overall discriminative capacity with respect to death was equally poor for all equations. Conclusion: The GLI equations for predicting FEV1 provide similar estimates compared to an equation developed in a healthy subset of the population in which they are applied, and higher values compared to the ERS equation, especially in women. However, the use of the GLI equation does not improve the stratification of the risk of mortality in elderly people compared to ERS or NHANES equations.
Postictal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Changes Masquerading as Brain Tumor Progression: A Case Series
Authors: Dunn-Pirio Anastasie M. , Billakota Santoshi , Peters Katherine B.
Published: June 2016

Seizures are common among patients with brain tumors. Transient, postictal magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities are a long recognized phenomenon. However, these radiographic changes are not as well studied in the brain tumor population. Moreover, reversible neuroimaging abnormalities following seizure activity may be misinterpreted for tumor progression and could consequently result in unnecessary tumor-directed treatment. Here, we describe two cases of patients with brain tumors who developed peri-ictal pseudoprogression and review the relevant literature.
A Case of Malignant Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Initially Misdiagnosed as Malignant B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Suh Byoung Jo
Published: June 2016

Errors that occur in anatomic pathology influence the treatment strategy of patients with malignancy. There are four general types of error with three subtypes in the category of defective interpretation. The first subtype is a false-negative diagnosis or undercall of the extent or severity of the lesion, the second is a false-positive diagnosis, and the third is misclassification. We herein report a 65-year-old female patient with malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumor that was diagnosed after reevaluation of the lesion at our hospital – and treated with proximal gastrectomy – after initial diagnosis as malignant B-cell lymphoma on esophagogastroduodenoscopy biopsy of a small gastric fundic mass and subsequent treatment with six cycles of CHOP chemotherapy with aggravation of the mass at another hospital.
Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum as a Potential Predictor of Mortality in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Colombi Davide , Ehlers-Tenenbaum Svenja , Palmowski Karin , Heussel Claus Peter , Sverzellati Nicola , Silva Mario , Eichinger Monika , Kreuter Michael
Published: June 2016

Background: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (PM) is a rare event in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) with unknown prognostic implications. Objectives: To analyze the incidence and prognostic impact of PM in a cohort of patients with IPF. Methods: PM diagnosed by computed tomography was identified retrospectively in the clinical and radiological records of 182 patients with IPF who were admitted to our center between August 2006 and July 2013. PM patients were compared to matched IPF patients not affected by PM and analyzed for survival. Results: PM occurred in 9/182 IPF patients [5%; 6 males; median age: 63 years; median percent predicted of vital capacity (VC%) at baseline: 53%]. The median time between IPF diagnosis and PM occurrence was 3 months (interquartile range: 0-33). The control group included 36 IPF patients (28 males; median age: 69 years; VC% at baseline: 57%). In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, PM was a significant predictor of mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 3.0; p = 0.032]. Considering only patients experiencing PM at the time of IPF diagnosis (n = 4), PM was a strongly significant predictor of mortality in multivariate analysis (HR: 6.4; p = 0.007). Conclusions: Spontaneous PM is a rare but serious complication in patients with IPF and may be considered as a potential predictor of mortality.