bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical dioxygen reduction catalyzed by a (nitro)cobalt(perfluorophthalocyanine) complex and the possibility of a peroxynitro complex intermediate
Authors: Goodwin John A. , Agbo Johnson , Zuczek Justin , Samuel Auquilla , Aslund Tyler H. , Tuley Leanne R. , Simmons Johnathan A. , Kimble Robert J. , Magee Erin , Creager Stephen , Shetzline Jamie
Published: January 2016

The (nitro)([Formula: see text],[Formula: see text]-dimethyl-4-aminopyridine) complex of perfluorinated cobalt(III) phthalocyanine Co(III)F16Pc(Me2Npy)(NO[Formula: see text] catalyzes the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in pH 4.0, 7.0, and 10.0 buffer and 0.05 M sulfuric acid solution when deposited on a glassy carbon electrode. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), rotating disk electrode voltammetry (RDE), and rotating ring-disk electrode voltammetry (RRDE) have been used to determine the reduction product as hydrogen peroxide although in concentrations too small to observe by qualitative methods such as oxidation of NaI in solution. The dependence of the values of the peak potentials for the reduction on the pH of the solution and the -log[Me2Npy] are consistent with protonation up to pH 7.6 and pyridine ligand loss during the reduction. The addition of nitrite at 0.1 and 1 M to pH 7.0 solutions in contact with films of CoF16Pc on the glassy carbon electrode decreases the ORR current and shifts the peak potential of the ORR from -0.21 V vs. NHE to -0.19 V vs. NHE. The addition of nitrite at 0.1 and 1 M to films of Co(III)F16Pc(Me2Npy)(NO[Formula: see text] on glassy carbon, however, has no effect on either the current or the potential. While the electrochemical evidence for this proposal is not definitive, modeling has been used to examine the center of reduction in the alternative mechanisms by evaluation of the LUMOs of the hypothetical intermediates in both closed and open shell cases. The formation of five-coordinate Co(II)F16Pc(NO) is proposed to occur initially in the reduction mechanism. It is also possible that O2 reduction takes place at the NO ligand center by way of a nitrogen-bound peroxynitrite intermediate. The [Formula: see text] ligand appears to remain bound during the ORR. Direct coordination of O2 to the metal center requiring a six-coordinate species, Co(III)F16Pc(O[Formula: see text](NO[Formula: see text], Co(II)F16Pc(O[Formula: see text](NO) or [Co(II)F16Pc(O[Formula: see text](NO[Formula: see text]][Formula: see text] and has been considered in DFT modeling studies. The instability of the two-electron reduced, protonation species, [Co(I)F16Pc(NO2OH)][Formula: see text] in its loss of peroxynitrous acid suggests that the reduction of O2 may occur by two one-electron reduction steps rather than a two-electron step.
多重认同与族群边界
Authors: 白 伟权 , 陈 国川
Published: January 2016

本文旨在探讨华人祖籍地空间层级意识变化的意义。 祖籍地是海外华人移民社会当中其中一项重要的认同依归，过去许多对于19世纪至20世纪初华人移民祖籍身份认同的讨论，倾向于将华人的祖籍地意识视为是静态的过程，而忽略其本身的动态性。 本文试图从"多重认同"和"族群边界"的角度出发，以新山绵裕亭义山墓碑上所标示的祖籍地名为指标，分析华人对于不同行政层级祖籍地名的使用情形，检视19世纪中叶至20世纪初新山华人祖籍地空间意识的动态变化。 透过1,083笔墓碑样本的分析，本文主要有 四个发现： 一、华人移民对于不同层级的祖籍地名使用，具有多重复合的现象； 二、低空间层级的祖籍地名较高空间层级的祖籍地名更常为人所使用； 三、祖籍地名的空间层级会随互动对象的复杂而扩大；四、祖籍地名空间层级的高低与各帮群规模的大小有关。上述四点展现了早期新山华人移民祖籍地意识上的多重性与动态性，移民透过对祖籍地空间意识的调整，以期在多元复杂的移民社会中凝聚出更大的集体认同。
The Impact of Different Teaching Approaches and Languages on Student Learning of Introductory Programming Concepts
Authors: Kunkle Wanda M. , Allen Robert B.
Published: January 2016

Learning to program, especially in the object-oriented paradigm, is a difficult undertaking for many students. As a result, computing educators have tried a variety of instructional methods to assist beginning programmers. These include developing approaches geared specifically toward novices and experimenting with different introductory programming languages. However, determining the effectiveness of these interventions poses a problem. The research presented here developed an instrument to assess student learning of fundamental and object-oriented programming concepts, then used that instrument to investigate the impact of different teaching approaches and languages on university students’ ability to learn those concepts. Extensive data analysis showed that the instrument performed well overall. Reliability of the assessment tool was statistically satisfactory and content validity was supported by intrinsic characteristics, question response analysis, and expert review. Preliminary support for construct validity was provided through exploratory factor analysis. Three components that at least partly represented the construct “understanding of fundamental programming concepts” were identified: methods and functions, mathematical and logical expressions, and control structures. Analysis revealed significant differences in student performance based on instructional language and approach. The analyses showed differences on the overall score and questions involving assignment, mathematical and logical expressions, and code completion. Instructional language and approach did not appear to affect student performance on questions addressing object-oriented concepts.
How a supervillain (or a hacker in his basement) could destroy the internet
Authors: Kugler Logan
Published: January 2016

Network experts share their greatest fears about attacks and accidents that could destroy the Internet.
Privacy research directions
Authors: Landwehr Carl
Published: January 2016

What must we learn in order to support privacy requirements as technology advances?
On the Design and Evaluation of a Real-Time Operating System for Cache-Coherent Multicore Architectures
Authors: Gracioli Giovani , Fröhlich Antônio Augusto
Published: January 2016

The uncontrolled use of the cache hierarchy in a multicore processor by real-time tasks may impact their worst-case execution times. Several operating system techniques have been recently proposed to deal with caches in a multiprocessor in order to improve predictability, such as cache partitioning, cache locking, and real-time scheduling. However, the contention caused by the cache coherence protocol and its implication for real-time tasks is still an open problem. In this paper, we present the design and evaluation of a real-time operating system for cache-coherent multicore architectures. The real-time operating system infrastructure includes real-time schedulers, cache partitioning, and cache coherence contention detection through hardware performance counters. We evaluate the real-time operating system in terms of run-time overhead, schedulability of realtime tasks, cache partitioning performance, and hardware performance counters usability. Our results indicate that: (i) a real-time operating system designed from scratch reduces the run-time overhead, and thus improves the realtime schedulability, when compared to a patched operating system; (ii) cache partitioning reduces the contention in the shared cache and provides safe real-time bounds; and (iii) hardware performance counters can detect when real-time tasks interfere with each other at the shared cache level. Scheduling, cache partitioning, and hardware performance counters together are a step-forward to provide real-time bounds in cache-coherent architectures.
Revisiting Hash Table Design for Phase Change Memory
Authors: Debnath Biplob , Haghdoost Alireza , Kadav Asim , Khatib Mohammed G. , Ungureanu Cristian
Published: January 2016

Phase Change Memory (PCM) is emerging as an attractive alternative to Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) in building data-intensive computing systems. PCM offers read/write performance asymmetry that makes it necessary to revisit the design of in-memory applications. In this paper, we focus on in-memory hash tables, a family of data structures with wide applicability. We evaluate several popular hash-table designs to understand their performance under PCM. We find that for write-heavy workloads the designs that achieve best performance for PCMdiffer from the ones that are best for DRAM, and that designs achieving a high load factor also cause a high number of memory writes. Finally, we propose PFHT, a PCM-Friendly Hash Table which presents a cuckoo hashing variant that is tailored to PCM characteristics, and offers a better trade-off between performance, the amount of writes generated, and the expected load factor than any of the existing DRAMbased implementations.
Lightweight Capability Domains
Authors: Jacobsen Charles , Khole Muktesh , Spall Sarah , Bauer Scotty , Burtsev Anton
Published: January 2016

Despite a number of radical changes in how computer systems are used, the design principles behind the very core of the systems stack--an operating system kernel--has remained unchanged for decades.We run monolithic kernels developed with a combination ofan unsafe programming language, global sharing of data structures, opaque interfaces, and no explicit knowledge of kernel protocols. Today, the monolithic architecture of a kernel is the main factor undermining its security, and even worse, limiting its evolution towards a safer, more secure environment. Lack of isolation across kernel subsystems allows attackers to take control over the entire machine with a single kernel vulnerability. Furthermore, complex, semantically rich monolithic code with globally shared data structures and no explicit interfaces is not amenable to formal analysis and verification tools. Even after decades of work to make monolithic kernels more secure, over a hundred serious kernel vulnerabilities are still reported every year.

Modern kernels need decomposition as a practical means of confining the effects of individual attacks. Historically, decomposed kernels were prohibitively slow. Today, the complexity of a modern kernel prevents a trivial decomposition effort. We argue, however, that despite all odds modern kernels can be decomposed. Careful choice of communication abstractions and execution model, a general approach to decomposition, a path for incremental adoption, and automation through proper language tools can address complexity of decomposition and performance overheads of decomposed kernels. Our work on lightweight capability domains (LCDs) develops principles, mechanisms, and tools that enable incremental, practical decomposition of a modern operating system kerne.
Resveratrol Protects against Sepsis-Associated Encephalopathy and Inhibits the NLRP3/IL-1βAxis in Microglia
Authors: Sui Da-ming , Xie Qun , Yi Wen-jing , Gupta Sahil , Yu Xi-ya , Li Jin-bao , Wang Jun , Wang Jia-feng , Deng Xiao-ming
Published: January 2016

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is characterized as brain dysfunction associated with sepsis. In this study we sought to investigate the effects of resveratrol in mice with SAE, as well as its effects in NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β, which were critical in the pathogenesis of SAE. SAE was induced in mice via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and resveratrol was administered at two doses after surgery. Spatial learning memory functions were evaluated by Morris water maze testing. Apoptosis in the hippocampus was quantified using TUNEL assay. Inflammation in the hippocampus was quantified by measuring the levels of microglial activation, NLRP3, and IL-1β. CLP mice treated with resveratrol demonstrated a better spatial memory during water maze training. The TUNEL assay demonstrated significantly attenuated rates of apoptosis, in resveratrol treated mice, while decreasing the number of iba-1 positive microglia in the hippocampus region. NLRP3 expression and IL-1βcleavage were well inhibited by resveratrol dose-dependently. Thein vitroresults showed that in the BV2 cell lines resveratrol prevents ATP induced NLRP3 activation and IL-1βcleavage, which were reversed by the sirtuin 1 inhibitor, nicotinamide. In conclusion, resveratrol improves the spatial memory in mice with SAE and inhibits the NLRP3/IL-1βaxis in the microglia.
Explicit Solution of Reinsurance-Investment Problem for an Insurer with Dynamic Income under Vasicek Model
Authors: Sheng De-Lei
Published: January 2016

Unlike traditionally used reserves models, this paper focuses on a reserve process with dynamic income to study the reinsurance-investment problem for an insurer under Vasicek stochastic interest rate model. The insurer’s dynamic income is given by the remainder after a dynamic reward budget being subtracted from the insurer’s net premium which is calculated according to expected premium principle. Applying stochastic control technique, a Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation is established and the explicit solution is obtained under the objective of maximizing the insurer’s power utility of terminal wealth. Some economic interpretations of the obtained results are explained in detail. In addition, numerical analysis and several graphics are given to illustrate our results more meticulous.
Inactivation ofAnopheles gambiaeGlutathione Transferaseε2 by Epiphyllocoumarin
Authors: Marimo Patience , Hayeshi Rose , Mukanganyama Stanley
Published: January 2016

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are part of a major family of detoxifying enzymes that can catalyze the reductive dehydrochlorination of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). The delta and epsilon classes of insect GSTs have been implicated in conferring resistance to this insecticide. In this study, the inactivation ofAnopheles gambiaeGSTε2 by epiphyllocoumarin (Tral 1) was investigated. Recombinant AgGSTε2 was expressed inEscherichia colicells containing a pET3a-AGSTε2 plasmid and purified by affinity chromatography. Tral 1 was shown to inactivate GSTε2 both in a time-dependent manner and in a concentration-dependent manner. The half-life of GSTε2 in the presence of 25 μM ethacrynic acid (ETA) was 22 minutes and with Tral 1 was 30 minutes, indicating that Tral 1 was not as efficient as ETA as an inactivator. The inactivation parameterskinactandKIwere found to be 0.020 ± 0.001 min−1and 7.5 ± 2.1 μM, respectively, after 90 minutes of incubation. Inactivation of GSTε2 by Tral 1 implies that Tral 1 covalently binds to this enzymein vitroand would be expected to exhibit time-dependent effects on the enzymein vivo. Tral 1, therefore, would produce irreversible effects when used together with dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in malaria control programmes where resistance is mediated by GSTs.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Reactions in Macrophages and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Li Dequan , Wang Cong , Chi Chuang , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhao Jing , Fang Jun , Pan Jingye
Published: January 2016

Background. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) accompanied by trauma can lead to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and even death. Early inhibition of the inflammation is necessary for damage control. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), as a novel therapy modality, have been shown to reduce inflammatory responses in human and animal models.Methods. In this study, we used Western blot, quantitative PCR, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the activity of BMSCs to suppress the inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in human umbilical cord endothelial cells (HUVECs) and alveolar macrophages.Results. Our results demonstrated that LPS caused an inflammatory response in alveolar macrophages and HUVECs, increased permeability of HUVEC, upregulated expression of toll-like receptor (TLR) 2, TLR4, phosphorylated p65, downregulated release of IL10, and promoted release of TNF-αin both cells. Coculture with BMSCs attenuated all of these activities induced by LPS in the two tested cell types.Conclusions. Together, our results demonstrate that BMSCs dosage dependently attenuates the inflammation damage of alveolar macrophages and HUVECs induced by LPS.
Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Its Relationship with Clinical and Laboratory Findings
Authors: Jafari Seyyed Mehdi , Salimi Saeedeh , Nakhaee Alireza , Kalani Hamed , Tavallaie Shima , Farajian-Mashhadi Farzaneh , Zakeri Zahra , Sandoughi Mahnaz
Published: January 2016

Aim. This study was aimed at evaluating prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its relationship with laboratory findings and clinical manifestations.Methods. In this case-control study, 60 patients with SLE and 60 healthy individuals were enrolled. The blood samples were collected and their sera were separated. Subsequently, the prooxidant-antioxidant balance value was evaluated using PAB assay for each sample.Results. The mean of PAB values in SLE patients was significantly higher than healthy controls (147.3±42versus84.8±32.2 HK,P<0.0001). Furthermore, in SLE patients, there was a positive significant correlation between the PAB and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (r=0.492,P<0.001). In addition, the PAB values in patients with alopecia, discoid rash, oral ulcers, arthritis, and nephritis were significantly higher than those without these manifestations.Conclusion. The findings of current study showed that the mean of PAB was significantly higher in SLE patients and PAB was correlated with ESR. Moreover increased PAB was found in SLE patients with alopecia, discoid rash, oral ulcers, arthritis, and nephritis. These findings suggest that the measurement of PAB may be useful to show oxidative stress condition in SLE patients.
Irreducible Anteromedial Dislocation of Radial Head with Biceps Tendon Interposition
Authors: Climent-Peris Vicente J. , Sirera-Vercher Josette , Sanz-Amaro M. Dolores
Published: January 2016

The case presents an isolated irreducible anteromedial dislocation of radial head due to biceps tendon interposition on a 14-year-old female patient. After an unsuccessful closed reduction, a lateral approach of the left elbow was carried out through Kocher’s interval. Given that no pathology was found on the radiohumeral joint, the approach was extended distally. This revealed that the biceps tendon was displaced laterally around the radial neck, preventing the reduction. Once the tendon was taken back to its anatomical position, the radial head reduction was performed successfully. The patient achieved a complete functional recovery. Possible injury mechanisms are discussed, as well as the importance of identifying such a rare injury.
Chylous Fistula following Axillary Lymphadenectomy: Benefit of Octreotide Treatment
Authors: González-Sánchez-Migallón Elena , Aguilar-Jiménez José , García-Marín José Andrés , Aguayo-Albasini José Luis
Published: January 2016

Chyle leak following axillary lymph node clearance is a rare yet important complication. The treatment of postoperative chyle fistula still remains unclear. Conservative management is the first line of treatment. It includes axillary drains on continuous suction, pressure dressings, bed rest, and nutritional modifications. The use of somatostatin analogue is well documented as a treatment for chylous fistulas after neck surgery. We present a case of chylous fistula after axillary surgery resolved with the use of octreotide.
Dynamic Wetting Behavior of Vibrated Droplets on a Micropillared Surface
Authors: Jia Zhi-hai , Lei Wei , Yang Hui-nan , Wang Gang
Published: January 2016

The dynamical wetting behavior has been observed under vertical vibration of a water droplet placed on a micropillared surface. The wetting transition takes place under the different processes. In compression process, the droplet is transited from Cassie state to Wenzel state. The droplet undergoes a Wenzel-Cassie wetting transition in restoring process and the droplet bounces off from the surface in bouncing process. Meanwhile, the wetting and dewetting models during vibration are proposed. The wetting transition is confirmed by the model calculation. This study has potential to be used to control the wetting state.
Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Diabetic Rats: The Role of Local Ischemic Preconditioning
Authors: Ozbilgin Sule , Ozkardesler Sevda , Akan Mert , Boztas Nilay , Ozbilgin Mucahit , Ergur Bekir Ugur , Derici Serhan , Guneli Mehmet Ensari , Meseri Reci
Published: January 2016

Background. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of local ischemic preconditioning using biochemical markers and histopathologically in the diabetic rat renal IR injury model.Methods. DM was induced using streptozotocin. Rats were divided into four groups: Group I, nondiabetic sham group (n=7), Group II, diabetic sham group (n=6), Group III, diabetic IR group (diabetic IR group,n=6), and Group IV, diabetic IR + local ischemic preconditioning group (diabetic IR + LIPC group,n=6). Ischemic renal injury was induced by clamping the bilateral renal artery for 45 min. 4 h following ischemia, clearance protocols were applied to assess biochemical markers and histopathologically in rat kidneys.Results. The histomorphologic total cell injury scores of the nondiabetic sham group were significantly lower than diabetic sham, diabetic IR, and diabetic IR + LIPC groups. Diabetic IR group scores were not significantly different than the diabetic sham group. But diabetic IR + LIPC group scores were significantly higher than the diabetic sham and diabetic IR groups.Conclusion. Local ischemic preconditioning does not reduce the risk of renal injury induced by ischemia/reperfusion in diabetic rat model.
Effects of Huang Bai (Phellodendri Cortex) and Three Other Herbs on GnRH and GH Levels in GT1–7 and GH3 Cells
Authors: Lee Sun Haeng , Kwak Sung Chul , Kim Dong Kwan , Park Sang Woug , Kim Hyun Soo , Kim Young-Sik , Lee Donghun , Lee Ju Won , Lee Chang Gon , Lee Hae Kyung , Cho Sung-Min , Shin Yu Jeong , Lee Jin Yong , Kim Hocheol , Chang Gyu Tae
Published: January 2016

The present study was to evaluate the effects of Huang Bai, Zhi Mu, Mai Ya, and Xia Ku Cao on hormone using the GT1–7 and GH3 cells. The GT1–7 and GH3 cell lines were incubated with DW; DMSO; and 30, 100, or 300 μg/mL of one of the four extract solutions in serum‐free media for 24 hours. The MTT assay was performed to determine the cytotoxicity of the four herbs. The GT1–7 and GH3 cells were incubated in DW, estradiol (GT1–7 only), or noncytotoxic herb solutions in serum‐free medium for 24 hours. A quantitative RT‐PCR and western blot were performed to measure the GnRH expression in GT1–7 cells and GH expression in GH3 cells. Huang Bai, Zhi Mu, Xia Ku Cao, and Mai Ya inhibited the GnRH mRNA expression in GT1–7 cells, whereas Huang Bai enhanced GH mRNA expression in GH3 cells. Additionally, Xia Ku Cao inhibited GnRH protein expression in GT1–7 cells and Huang Bai promoted GH protein expression in GH3 cells. The findings suggest that Huang Bai can delay puberty by inhibiting GnRH synthesis in the hypothalamus while also accelerating growth by promoting GH synthesis and secretion in the pituitary.
Interaction between Methylation and CpG Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the HTR2A Gene: Association Analysis with Suicide Attempt in Schizophrenia
Authors: Bani-Fatemi Ali , Howe Aaron S. , Matmari Michelle , Koga Arthur , Zai Clement , Strauss John , De Luca Vincenzo
Published: January 2016

Dysfunctional mechanisms in the serotonergic system have been implicated in suicidal behavior among patients with schizophrenia. However, previous association analyses of major serotonin genes have provided inconsistent findings regarding their role in suicidal behavior. The goal of the current study was to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) within HTR2A that directly affect CpG methylation sites in schizophrenic patients with suicidal behavior. Furthermore, direct methylation analysis was performed using genomic DNA from peripheral leukocytes employing bisulfite pyrosequencing to assess the contributions of six CpG sites in HTR2A exon I in 67 schizophrenia patients assessed for lifetime suicide attempt. Potential methylation in 25 CpG SNPs across the entire HTR2A gene was analyzed considering their direct contribution to methylation. When we compared direct methylation between attempters and nonattempters, we found that only the polymorphic T102C (rs6313) was significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.02). Furthermore, in the potential methylation analysis, we found a nominal association with suicide attempt for six of the 25 SNPs analyzed, i.e. rs2770293 (p = 0.045), rs6313 (p = 0.033), rs17068986 (p = 0.029), rs4942578 (p = 0.024), rs1728872 (p = 0.014), and rs9534511 (p = 0.003). The results of this investigation provide preliminary evidence that the combined analysis of CpG SNPs and methylation may be useful for investigating the genetic and epigenetic factors involved in suicidal behavior.
EEG Brain Wave Activity at Rest and during Evoked Attention in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Effects of Methylphenidate
Authors: Thomas Bianca Lee , Viljoen Margaretha
Published: January 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess baseline EEG brain wave activity in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to examine the effects of evoked attention and methylphenidate on this activity. Method: Children with ADHD (n = 19) were tested while they were stimulant free and during a period in which they were on stimulant (methylphenidate) medication. Control subjects (n = 18) were tested once. EEG brain wave activity was tested both at baseline and during focussed attention. Attention was evoked and EEG brain wave activity was determined by means of the BioGraph Infiniti biofeedback apparatus. Results: The main finding of this study was that control subjects and stimulant-free children with ADHD exhibited the expected reactivity in high alpha-wave activity (11-12 Hz) from baseline to focussed attention; however, methylphenidate appeared to abolish this reactivity. Conclusion: Methylphenidate attenuates the normal cortical response to a cognitive challenge.
Investigation of Somatic GNAQ, GNA11, BAP1 and SF3B1 Mutations in Ophthalmic Melanocytomas
Authors: Francis Jasmine H. , Wiesner Thomas , Milman Tatyana , Won Helen H. , Lin Amy , Lee Vivian , Albert Daniel M. , Folberg Robert , Berger Michael F. , Char Devron H. , Marr Brian , Abramson David H.
Published: January 2016

Purpose: The aim of this study was to use massively parallel DNA sequencing to identify GNAQ/11, BAP1 and SF3B1 mutations in ophthalmic melanocytoma. Procedures: Six ophthalmic melanocytoma specimens (1 iridociliary and 5 optic nerve) were profiled for genomic alterations in GNAQ/11, BAP1 and SF3B1 using a custom deep sequencing assay. This assay uses solution phase hybridization-based exon capture and deep-coverage massively parallel DNA sequencing to interrogate all protein-coding exons and select introns. Results: The only iridociliary melanocytoma showed a mutation in GNAQ but not in BAP1. Of the 2 optic-nerve melanocytomas that developed into melanoma, one had a GNAQ mutation and both a BAP1 mutation and monosomy 3. The remaining 3 optic-nerve melanocytomas did not reveal mutations in GNAQ/11 or BAP1. SF3B1 mutations were not detected in any specimen. Conclusions: The presence of GNAQ mutation in some iridociliary and optic-nerve melanocytomas suggests a possible relationship between ophthalmic melanocytoma and other ophthalmic melanocytic neoplasms. BAP1 mutation may accompany the transformation of ophthalmic melanocytoma to melanoma.
Antinuclear Antibody-Negative Lupus Nephritis with Full House Nephropathy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Simmons Sierra C. , Smith Maxwell L. , Chang-Miller April , Keddis Mira T.
Published: January 2016

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious and common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that predisposes to significant morbidity and mortality. Studies show that prompt diagnosis and treatment improves patient survival. We present a case of a 49-year-old female with an atypical presentation of LN who initially presented with new-onset hypertension, edema, arthritis, serositis and recently diagnosed leukocytoclastic vasculitis who later developed acute kidney injury, hematuria and nephrotic syndrome. Laboratory testing showed mixed cryoglobulinemia and elevated perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic (p-ANCA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) antibodies. SLE-related serologies were negative. Kidney biopsy showed diffuse proliferative global glomerulonephritis with a full-house nephropathy pattern on immunofluorescence suggestive of LN. Due to high clinical suspicion and renal biopsy findings, she was treated for LN with prompt renal response to immunosuppression. Cryoglobulins, p-ANCA and MPO titers normalized and the negative SLE serologies remained negative. Literature review on antinuclear antibody (ANA)-negative and seronegative LN revealed the following patient presentations: (1) renal-limited or renal and extra-renal manifestations of SLE with negative serologies and (2) renal and extra-renal manifestations of SLE with negative serologies at presentation who develop positive serologies later in follow-up. Both groups represent a unique and challenging cohort of patients who may require longer follow-up and further testing to rule out other glomerular diseases that may mimic LN on renal biopsy. The absence of SLE-related serologies should be weighed against a high pre-test probability of ANA-negative or seronegative LN. If highly suspected, the patient should be treated promptly with close monitoring.
Genomic Alterations Are Enhanced in Placentas from Pregnancies with Fetal Growth Restriction and Preeclampsia: Preliminary Results
Authors: Biron-Shental Tal , Sharony Reuven , Shtorch-Asor Atalia , Keiser Meirav , Sadeh-Mestechkin Dana , Laish Ido , Amiel Aliza
Published: January 2016

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) secondary to placental insufficiency and preeclampsia (PE) are associated with substantially increased childhood and adult morbidity and mortality. The long-term outcomes are related to placental aberrations and intrauterine programming. Advances in microarray technology allow high-resolution, genome-wide evaluation for DNA copy number variations - deletions and duplications. The aim of our study was to demonstrate the usefulness of microarray testing in FGR placentas. Using Affymetrix GeneChip for chromosomal microarray (CMA), we analyzed 10 placentas from pregnancies with FGR attributed to placental insufficiency; 5 with FGR below the 5th percentile and 5 from the 5th to <10th percentiles. All fetuses had normal anomaly scans and karyotypes. We also analyzed 5 third-trimester placentas from pregnancies complicated by PE with severe features and 5 from PE without severe features, all with appropriately grown fetuses. The results were compared to 10 placentas from uncomplicated pregnancies with healthy neonates. CMA analysis identified more genomic alterations in FGR (p < 0.05) and in PE (p < 0.05) placentas than in healthy controls. There was a correlation to the severity of FGR and PE. The genomic alterations were below the resolution of normal karyotyping. The altered genes are related to adult human height, stress reactions and to cellular migration, differentiation and adhesion. Though very preliminary, our data support evaluating FGR and PE placentas using CMA. Larger data sets are needed for further evaluation of the findings and their clinical implications.
DISTRIBUIÇÃO ESPAÇO-TEMPORAL DOS DESASTRES NATURAIS ASSOCIADOS À DINÂMICA CLIMÁTICA NO ESTADO DO CEARÁ
Authors: Olímpio João Luís Sampaio , Zanella Maria Elisa
Published: January 2016

<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: PT-BR; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">No estado do Ceará é recorrente a materialização de desastres naturais induzidos pela ocorrência de eventos naturais extremos, como as secas e as inundações que, por vezes, motivam a decretação de Situação de Emergência ou Estado de Calamidade Pública. Neste artigo, apresentam-se os desastres naturais citados ocorridos no estado do Ceará, a partir do levantamento das Portarias de reconhecimento de Situação de Desastre emitidas entre os anos de 2003 a 2013 e pela análise da variabilidade pluviométrica da estação chuvosa. Os resultados revelaram quais as porções do estado são mais vulneráveis às adversidades induzidas pela dinâmica climática da região semiárida e sua relação com uma fragilidade natural e com um contexto socioeconômico, cultural, institucional e estrutural presentes nos municípios cearenses. Assim, esta pesquisa visa analisar a distribuição dos desastres naturais e dos danos produzidos na série histórica indicada, gerando informações que podem ser apropriadas pelos tomadores de decisão, com vista à gestão dos riscos de desastres. 
Radial Artery Occlusion After Transradial Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Rashid Muhammad , Kwok Chun Shing , Pancholy Samir , Chugh Sanjay , Kedev Sasko A. , Bernat Ivo , Ratib Karim , Large Adrian , Fraser Doug , Nolan James , Mamas Mamas A.
Published: January 2016

Background

Radial artery occlusion (
RAO
) may occur posttransradial intervention and limits the radial artery as a future access site, thus precluding its use as an arterial conduit. In this study, we investigate the incidence and factors influencing the
RAO
in the current literature.

Methods and Results

We searched
MEDLINE
and
EMBASE
for studies of
RAO
in transradial access. Relevant studies were identified and data were extracted. Data were synthesized by meta‐analysis, quantitative pooling, graphical representation, or by narrative synthesis. A total of 66 studies with 31 345 participants were included in the analysis. Incident
RAO
ranged between <1% and 33% and varied with timing of assessment of radial artery patency (incidence of
RAO
within 24 hours was 7.7%, which decreased to 5.5% at >1 week follow‐up). The most efficacious measure in reducing
RAO
was higher dose of heparin, because lower doses of heparin were associated with increased
RAO
(risk ratio 0.36, 95%
CI
0.17–0.76), whereas shorter compression times also reduced
RAO
(risk ratio 0.28, 95%
CI
0.05–1.50). Several factors were found to be associated with
RAO
including age, sex, sheath size, and diameter of radial artery, but these factors were not consistent across all studies.

Conclusions

RAO
is a common complication of transradial access. Maintenance of radial patency should be an integral part of all procedures undertaken through the radial approach. High‐dose heparin along with shorter compression times and patent hemostasis is recommended in reducing
RAO
.
Intrinsic Predictability of the 20 May 2013 Tornadic Thunderstorm Event in Oklahoma at Storm Scales
Authors: Zhang Yunji , Zhang Fuqing , Stensrud David J. , Meng Zhiyong
Published: January 2016

Using a high-resolution convection-allowing numerical weather prediction model, this study seeks to explore the intrinsic predictability of the severe tornadic thunderstorm event on 20 May 2013 in Oklahoma from its preinitiation environment to initiation, upscale organization, and interaction with other convective storms. This is accomplished through ensemble forecasts perturbed with minute initial condition uncertainties that were beyond detection capabilities of any current observational platforms. It was found that these small perturbations, too small to modify the initial mesoscale environmental instability and moisture fields, will be propagated and evolved via turbulence within the PBL and rapidly amplified in moist convective processes through positive feedbacks associated with updrafts, phase transitions of water species, and cold pools, thus greatly affecting the appearance, organization, and development of thunderstorms. The forecast errors remain nearly unchanged even when the initial perturbations (errors) were reduced by as much as 90%, which strongly suggests an inherently limited predictability for this thunderstorm event for lead times as short as 3–6 h. Further scale decomposition reveals rapid error growth and saturation in meso-γ scales (regardless of the magnitude of initial errors) and subsequent upscale growth into meso-β scales.
Utility of Obtaining a Serum Basic Metabolic Panel in the Setting of a First-Time Nonfebrile Seizure
Authors: Zuccarelli Britton D. , Hall Ara S.
Published: January 2016

New-onset nonfebrile seizures in an otherwise healthy child are common, affecting 25 000 to 40 000 U.S. children annually. We hypothesized seizure-provoking electrolyte disturbances such as hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, and hypocalcemia are uncommon in these children. From January 1, 2009 to May 31, 2009, 358 children aged 29 days to 18 years with a diagnosis code of 780.39 (“other convulsions” including “first time seizure,” etc) were included for potential retrospective review. Children with known epilepsy and febrile seizures were excluded. Electrolytes were obtained in nearly all children with a history suggestive of an underlying abnormality (13 of 14, 93%) but also in half of children with a reassuring history (62 of 119, 52%). No child with an unremarkable history and exam was found to have electrolyte abnormalities falling below levels most likely to be associated with acute symptomatic seizures. Electrolytes are unlikely to be abnormal in an otherwise well-appearing child after a first-time nonfebrile seizure.
Ex post legislative evaluation in the European Union: questioning the usage of evaluations as instruments for accountability
Authors: Zwaan Pieter , van Voorst Stijn , Mastenbroek Ellen
Published: January 2016

Evaluations may perform a key role in political systems as they provide a basis for parliaments to hold their executives accountable. This is equally the case in the European Union. Yet, several factors may work against the usage of European Union evaluations for accountability purposes. Members of the European Parliament work under great time pressure and executives may have little incentives to produce high-quality evaluations. This article therefore addresses the question of to what extent and when Members of the European Parliament use ex post legislative evaluations. We present an analysis of 220 evaluations, studying how many were referred to in parliamentary questions. Our main finding is that 16% of the evaluations are followed up through questions. However, the parliamentary questions hardly serve accountability aims. Members of the European Parliament mostly use evaluations for agenda-setting purposes. The main variable explaining differences in the usage of evaluations is the level of conflict between the European Parliament and Commission during the legislative process.

Points for practitioners

This article studies the usage of ex post evaluations of European Union legislation by Members of the European Parliament for accountability purposes by analysing European Parliament questions. It shows that MEPs ask different types of questions, referring to ex post evaluations. Most of the questions reveal forward-looking rather than backward-looking motives, aimed at agenda-setting and policy change instead of accountability. It concludes that variance in parliamentary questions about the follow-up of evaluation outcomes can be explained by the level of conflict between the European Parliament and Commission during the legislative stage.
Critical geological characteristics and gas-bearing controlling factors in Longmaxi shales in southeastern Chongqing, China
Authors: Jing Tieya , Zhang Jinchuan , Xu Shisen , Liu Zhujiang , Han Shuangbiao
Published: January 2016

The southeastern Chongqing area, one of the highest potential shale gas accumulation areas in China, experienced strong tectonic movements. Due to the tectonic uplift in Himalayan period, the target shale formation is characterized by shallow burial depth and abundant fractures. The Lower Silurian Longmaxi shale was deposited under deep and shallow continental shelf environments with abundant pyrites and graptolite fossils. The lithology of the formation includes black carbonaceous shale, calcareous shale, and siliceous shale. The thickness of the shale varies greatly from 40 to 200 m from southeast to northwest with obvious zonation. Total organic carbon (TOC) content ranges from 1.0 to 4.0% and decreases upward in the formation owing to the change of sedimentary facies. The organic matter reaches dry gas zone. Porosity ranges from 0.5 to 7.9%, and the permeability is measured in the microdarcy to nanodarcy range. Abundant fragile minerals exist in the shales which benefit the hydraulic stimulation. Isothermal adsorption tests show that the sorption gas content in place of the Longmaxi shale ranges from 1.0 to 4.5 m3/t and the gas content in place reaches the standard of commercial exploitation. Factors impacting gas-bearing characteristics were analyzed using a mathematical statistic method, which demonstrates that TOC is the most important factor, especially to the sorption gas content. Meanwhile, clay content, thermal maturity, porosity, and mineral components are also significant factors regarding shale gas-bearing characteristics.
Moral Heroes Look Up and to the Right
Authors: Frimer Jeremy A. , Sinclair Lisa
Published: January 2016

Portraits of moral heroes often portray the hero gazing up and to the viewer’s right in part because ideologically minded followers select and propagate these images of their leaders. Study 1 found that the gaze direction of portraits of moral heroes (e.g., Martin Luther King, Jr.) tend to show the hero looking up-and-right more often than chance would predict, and more often than portraits of celebrities (e.g., Elvis Presley) do. In Studies 2 and 3, we asked participants to play the role of an ideologically motivated follower, and select an image of their leader to promote the cause. Participants preferentially selected the up-and-right version. In Study 4, we found that conceptual metaphors linking directionality to personal virtues of warmth, pride, and future-mindedness helped explain why the up-and-right posture looks most heroic. Followers play an active role in advancing social causes by portraying their leaders as moral heroes.
The Discourse of the Consumer Resistance Movement
Authors: Valor Carmen , Díaz Estela M. , Merino Amparo
Published: January 2016

Little work has been done on understanding the ways in which resistant consumers interpret the causes and responsible agents for structures of domination. Drawing on collective action frames, we examine how a consumer resistance movement defines both its antagonists (adversarial framing) and its advocacy strategies for response (prognostic framing). Discourses of resistant consumers are analyzed through the lens of power, since to explore these frames is also to study the question of who is perceived as the locus of power and how power/resistance is exercised to achieve the movement’s goals. A kaleidoscopic framing emerges that reveals multiple points and forms of resistance. To counteract the underlying attribution of responsibility (the materialistic ideology dominant in Western societies), consumers bring into play a repertoire of actions that enable them to construct both themselves and others as ethical persons. Based on these findings the research contributes to the literature on consumer resistance by broadening the most commonly held vision of power, namely, power as domination and control possessed by distinctly identifiable agents. This study, by contrast, provides evidence of discourses that assume power is exercised in a reticular, shifting, and productive manner, a vision of power that corresponds closely to that articulated in the work of Foucault and Arendt. An emphasis on this perception of power relationships in the realm of consumer resistance extends and enriches understanding of a movement’s dynamics, whilst also enhancing the movement’s capacity to change the materialistic ideology that it refuses to accept.
Specific behavioural phenotype and secondary cognitive decline as a result of an 8.6 Mb deletion of 2q32.2q33.1
Authors: Gregoric Kumperscak Hojka , Krgovic Danijela , Vokac Nadja Kokalj
Published: January 2016

Chromosomal abnormalities involving 2q32q33 deletions are very rare and present with a specific phenotype. This case report describes a 37-year-old female patient with 2q32q33 microdeletion syndrome presenting with the characteristic features, but with the addition of secondary cognitive decline. Molecular karyotyping was performed on the patient and her parents. It revealed an 8.6 megabase deletion with the proximal breakpoint in the chromosome band 2q32.2 and the distal breakpoint in 2q33.1. The deletion encompassed 22 known genes, including the GLS, MYO1B, TMEFF2, PGAP1 and SATB2 genes. The observed deletion was confirmed using a paralogue ratio test. This case report provides further evidence that the SATB2 gene, together with GLS, MYO1B, TMEFF2 and possibly PGAP1, is a crucial gene in 2q32q33 microdeletion syndrome. The SATB2 gene seems to be crucial for the behavioural problems noted in our case, but deletion of the GLS, MYO1B and TMEFF2 genes presumably contributed to the more complex behavioural characteristics observed. Our patient is also, to our knowledge, the only patient with 2q32q33 microdeletion syndrome with secondary cognitive decline.
Geographies of media and communication I
Authors: Adams Paul C.
Published: January 2016

Media and communication are attracting increasing amounts of attention from geographers but the work remains disorganized and lacks a unifying paradigm. This progress report suggests a new paradigm for geographical studies of media and communication and indicates how recent research fits under this umbrella. The report presents recent studies of literature, film and television, digital media, photography, comics, stamps and banknotes. The range of theoretical concerns in this body of work includes performance, agency, materiality, immateriality, networks, politics, emotions and affect. Collectively, these concerns point to communications not merely as transmissions through infrastructure, space and time, but rather as encounters between various human and nonhuman agents. The metaphysical question is exactly what such encounters do to participants – how agents are transformed by other agents’ communications. This leads to synthesis in a new paradigm for media/communication geography: the metaphysics of encounter.