bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructural features of eosinophilic oesophagitis: impact of treatment on desmosomes
Authors: Capocelli Kelley E , Fernando Shahan D , Menard-Katcher Calies , Furuta Glenn T , Masterson Joanne C , Wartchow Eric P
Published: October 2014

Aims

A growing body of evidence suggests a role for altered epithelial barrier function in the pathophysiology of eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE), but few have described the epithelial structure during inflammation. The purpose of this study was to define ultrastructural features of active, inactive EoE and control subject's oesophageal epithelia.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled patients undergoing diagnostic upper endoscopy for evaluation of EoE. Mucosal pinch biopsies were obtained from the distal oesophagus and processed for routine histology and electron microscopic assessment. Clinical features of enrolled subjects were analysed and subjects were divided into four groups: normal, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inactive EoE and active EoE. Representative photomicrographs of the basal and superficial epithelia were reviewed for abnormalities. Desmosomes were quantified on the surface of epithelia three to four prickle-cell layers above the basal layer.

Results

Twenty-nine paediatric cases (ages 2–18 years) were enrolled in the study. We observed a significant decrease in the number of desmosomes per cell (DPC) of subjects with active EoE compared with inactive EoE, GERD and normal epithelia. With respect to DPC, no significant differences were found between inactive EoE compared with GERD or normal subjects. Additional ultrastructural features observed included epithelial microplicae and evidence of eosinophil transmigration, degranulation, and sombrero formation.

Conclusions

Consistent with clinical and molecular findings, our ultrastructural data provide support for an altered oesophageal barrier in paediatric cases with active EoE, which may improve following treatment.
Environmental influences on children's physical activity
Authors: Pouliou Theodora , Sera Francesco , Griffiths Lucy , Joshi Heather , Geraci Marco , Cortina-Borja Mario , Law Catherine
Published: October 2014

Background

This paper aims to assess whether 7-year-olds’ physical activity is associated with family and area-level measures of the physical and socioeconomic environments.

Methods

We analysed the association of environments with physical activity in 6497 singleton children from the UK Millennium Cohort Study with reliable accelerometer data (≥2 days and ≥10 h/day). Activity levels were assessed as counts per minute; minutes of moderate to vigorous activity (MVPA); and whether meeting recommended guidelines (≥60 min/day MVPA).

Results

Higher levels of children's physical activity were associated with households without use of a car and with having a television in a child's bedroom (for counts per minute only). Aspects of the home socioeconomic environment that were associated with more children's physical activity were lone motherhood, lower maternal socioeconomic position and education, family income below 60% national median, and not owning the home. Children's activity levels were higher when parents perceived their neighbourhood as poor for bringing up children and also when families were living in the most deprived areas. Relationships were independent of characteristics such as child's body mass index and ethnic group. When adjusted for physical and socioeconomic correlates, the factors remaining significant in all outcomes were: household car usage and maternal education.

Conclusions

Although physical and socioeconomic environments are associated with children’s physical activity, much of the variation appears to be determined by the child's home socioeconomic circumstances rather than the wider environment where they live.
Anatomical results, rebleeding and factors that affect the degree of occlusion in ruptured cerebral aneurysms after endovascular therapy
Authors: Murias Quintana Eduardo , Gil Garcia Alberto , Vega Valdés Pedro , Cuellar Hugo , Meilán Martínez Ángela , Saiz Ayala Antonio , Costilla Garcia Serafin , Escudero Augusto Dolores , Gutierrez Morales Julio Cesar , López García Antonio
Published: October 2014

Object

To present a series of ruptured cerebral aneurysms in consecutive non-selected patients treated with endovascular therapy, analyzing the initial degree of occlusion, its anatomical evolution mid-term and the variables that could statistically affect them.

Methods

251 aneurysms were first treated with coiling (embolization). 203 patients were followed up with conventional angiography for 6–8 months after the initial treatment and 182 were followed up with three-dimensional time of flight MR angiography at18–24 months. Postoperative and mid-term anatomical results were evaluated anonymously and independently using the modified Montreal Scale.

Results

The initial rate of complete occlusion was 70.9%, with rates of neck remnants and aneurysm remants of 18.3% and 10.7%, respectively. The recurrence rate was 13% after 6 months and 2% between 6 months and 2 years. The rate of retreatment was 11%. Statistically, the variables that were found to be related to the initial degree of occlusion were the use of a remodeling balloon technique (p=0.012), the size of the aneurysm neck (p=0.044) and the size of the aneurysm (p=0.004). The recanalization rate at mid-term depended on the size of the aneurysm. Although aneurysms with partial occlusion initially tended to evolve to a worse degree of closure than those with complete occlusion initially, the relationship was not statistically significant (p=0.110).

Conclusions

Embolized aneurysms can develop a worse degree of closure even when the initial occlusion is complete. The degree of occlusion depends directly on morphological factors and the use of balloon-assisted techniques. The recanalization rate at mid-term depends on the size of the aneurysm and probably on the density of the packing achieved with the initial treatment.
Penetrability of microfine cement grouts: experimental investigation and fuzzy regression modeling
Authors: Markou Ioannis N. , Christodoulou Dimitrios N. , Papadopoulos Basil K.
Published: November 2014

One-dimensional injection tests were conducted on sand columns with a height of 134 cm for the penetrability evaluation of microfine cement grouts. Three ordinary cement types were pulverized to obtain microfine cements having nominal maximum grain sizes of 20 and 10 μm, and these cements were used in the present investigation. Suspensions with water to cement (W/C) ratios of 1, 2, and 3, by weight, were injected into 13 clean sands with d15 ranging from 0.17 to 2.25 mm and Cu ranging from 1.19 to 6.67. Pulverization of the ordinary cements to produce microfine cements extends the range of groutable sands to “medium-to-fine”. Cement fineness; suspension W/C ratio and apparent viscosity; and sand grain size, gradation, and relative density are very important parameters, as they substantially affect both grout penetration and maximum injection pressure. The penetration length of cement grouts was correlated to parameters pertinent to the suspension, sand, and injection process by performing fuzzy and ordinary linear regression analyses of the injection test results. The resultant fuzzy regression models provided successful penetration length predictions for the majority of the cases analyzed, while the best ordinary regression model exhibited a correlation coefficient not higher than 0.363.
DOP–PCR based painting of rye chromosomes in a wheat background
Authors: Deng Chuanliang , Bai Lili , Li Shufen , Zhang Yingxin , Li Xiang , Chen Yuhong , Wang Richard R.-C. , Han Fangpu , Hu Zanmin
Published: November 2014

To determine the appropriateness of chromosome painting for identifying genomic elements in rye, we microdissected the 1R and 1RS chromosomes from rye (Secale cereale L. var. King II) and wheat–rye addition line 1RS, respectively. Degenerate oligonucleotide primed – polymerase chain reaction (DOP–PCR) amplification of 1R and 1RS products from dissected chromosomes were used as probes to hybridize to metaphase chromosomes of rye, wheat–rye addition lines 1R and 1RS, translocation line 1RS.1BL, and allohexaploid triticale. The results showed that (i) the hybridization signal distribution patterns on rye chromosomes using 1R-derived DOP–PCR products as the probe were similar to those using 1RS-derived DOP–PCR products as the probe; (ii) 1R and (or) 1RS could not be distinguished from other rye chromosomes solely by the hybridization patterns using 1R- and (or) 1RS-derived DOP–PCR products as the probe; (iii) rye chromosomes and (or) rye chromosome fragments could be clearly identified in wheat–rye hybrids using either 1R- or 1RS-derived DOP–PCR products as the probe and could be more accurate in the nontelomeric region than using genomic in situ hybridization (GISH). Our results suggested that 1R- and (or) 1RS-derived DOP–PCR products contain many repetitive DNA sequences, are similar on different rye chromosomes, are R-genome specific, and can be used to identify rye chromosomes and chromosome fragments in wheat–rye hybrids. Our research widens the application range of chromosome painting in plants.
Graphene Active Plasmonics for New Types of Terahertz Lasers
Authors: Otsuji Taiichi , Satou Akira , Boubanga Tombet Stephane , Dubinov Alexander A. , Popov Vyacheslav V. , Ryzhii Victor , Shur Michael S.
Published: November 2014

This paper reviews recent advances toward new types of terahertz (THz) lasers using active plasmonics in graphene. Optical gain originated from graphene ultrafast nonequilibrium carrier dynamics and phonon properties in the broadband THz frequency range might pave the way for the THz lasers but the challenge is to overcome the strong losses in the THz range. Graphene plasmons, quanta of the collective charge density waves excited by the two-dimensional carriers in graphene, can substantially enhance the light-matter (THz photons-graphene) interaction, leading to a “giant THz gain”. One possible implementation relies on superradiant plasmonic THz lasing in graphene-metal micro-ribbon array structures.
The study of genetic information flux network properties in genetic algorithms
Authors: Wu Zhengping , Xu Qiong , Ni Gaosheng , Yu Gaoming
Published: November 2014

In this paper, an empirical analysis is done on the information flux network (IFN) statistical properties of genetic algorithms (GA) and the results suggest that the node degree distribution of IFN is scale-free when there is at least some selection pressure, and it has two branches as node degree is small. Increasing crossover, decreasing the mutation rate or decreasing the selective pressure will increase the average node degree, thus leading to the decrease of scaling exponent. These studies will be helpful in understanding the combination and distribution of excellent gene segments of the population in GA evolving, and will be useful in devising an efficient GA.
On colored HOMFLY polynomials for twist knots
Authors: Mironov Andrei , Morozov Alexei , Morozov Andrey
Published: October 2014

Recent results of Gu and Jockers provide the lacking initial conditions for the evolution method in the case of the first nontrivially colored HOMFLY polynomials H[21] for the family of twist knots. We describe this application of the evolution method, which finally allows one to penetrate through the wall between (anti)symmetric and non-rectangular representations for a whole family. We reveal the necessary deformation of the differential expansion, what, together with the recently suggested matrix model approach gives new opportunities to guess what it could be for a generic representation, at least for the family of twist knots.
Statistical Properties of Lorenz-like Flows, Recent Developments and Perspectives
Authors: Araujo Vitor , Galatolo Stefano , Pacifico Maria José
Published: October 2014

We comment on the mathematical results about the statistical behavior of Lorenz equations and its attractor, and more generally on the class of singular hyperbolic systems. The mathematical theory of such kind of systems turned out to be surprisingly difficult. It is remarkable that a rigorous proof of the existence of the Lorenz attractor was presented only around the year 2000 with a computer-assisted proof together with an extension of the hyperbolic theory developed to encompass attractors robustly containing equilibria.

We present some of the main results on the statistical behavior of such systems. We show that for attractors of three-dimensional flows, robust chaotic behavior is equivalent to the existence of certain hyperbolic structures, known as singular-hyperbolicity. These structures, in turn, are associated with the existence of physical measures: in low dimensions, robust chaotic behavior for flows ensures the existence of a physical measure.

We then give more details on recent results on the dynamics of singular-hyperbolic (Lorenz-like) attractors: (1) there exists an invariant foliation whose leaves are forward contracted by the flow (and further properties which are useful to understand the statistical properties of the dynamics); (2) there exists a positive Lyapunov exponent at every orbit; (3) there is a unique physical measure whose support is the whole attractor and which is the equilibrium state with respect to the center-unstable Jacobian; (4) this measure is exact dimensional; (5) the induced measure on a suitable family of cross-sections has exponential decay of correlations for Lipschitz observables with respect to a suitable Poincaré return time map; (6) the hitting time associated to Lorenz-like attractors satisfy a logarithm law; (7) the geometric Lorenz flow satisfies the Almost Sure Invariance Principle (ASIP) and the Central Limit Theorem (CLT); (8) the rate of decay of large deviations for the volume measure on the ergodic basin of a geometric Lorenz attractor is exponential; (9) a class of geometric Lorenz flows exhibits robust exponential decay of correlations; (10) all geometric Lorenz flows are rapidly mixing and their time-1 map satisfies both ASIP and CLT.
Quasi-Periodicity, Chaos and Coexistence in the Time Delay Controlled Two-Cell DC–DC Buck Converter
Authors: Koubaâ Karama , Feki Moez
Published: October 2014

In addition to border collision bifurcation, the time delay controlled two-cell DC/DC buck converter is shown to exhibit a chaotic behavior as well. The time delay controller adds new design parameters to the system and therefore the variation of a parameter may lead to different types of bifurcation. In this work, we present a thorough analysis of different scenarios leading to bifurcation and chaos. We show that the time delay controlled two-cell DC/DC buck converter may also exhibit a Neimark–Sacker bifurcation which for some parameter set may lead to a 2D torus that may then break yielding a chaotic behavior. Besides, the saturation of the controller can also lead to the coexistence of a stable focus and a chaotic attractor. The results are presented using numerical simulation of a discrete map of the two-cell DC/DC buck converter obtained by expressing successive crossings of Poincaré section in terms of each other.
Hidden Hyperchaotic Attractors in a Modified Lorenz–Stenflo System with Only One Stable Equilibrium
Authors: Wei Zhouchao , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2014

This paper reports the finding of a four-dimensional (4D) non-Sil'nikov autonomous system with three quadratic nonlinearities, which exhibits some behavior previously unobserved: hidden hyperchaotic attractors with only one stable equilibrium. The algebraical form of the non-Sil'nikov chaotic attractor is very similar to the hyperchaotic Lorenz–Stenflo system but they are different and, in fact, nonequivalent in topological structures. Of particular interest is the fact this system has only one stable equilibrium, but can exhibit hidden hyperchaos, chaos, periodic orbit. Moreover, the coexistence of attracting sets can be obtained in the system for some parameter values and different initial conditions, such as hyperchaotic attractor and point, hyperchaotic attractor and period orbit. To further analyze the new system, the ultimate bound and positively invariant set for the modified hyperchaotic Lorenz–Stenflo system are also obtained. Moreover, the complete mathematical characterizations for 4D Hopf bifurcation are rigorously derived and studied.
A New Cost Function for Parameter Estimation of Chaotic Systems Using Return Maps as Fingerprints
Authors: Jafari Sajad , Sprott Julien C. , Pham Viet-Thanh , Golpayegani S. Mohammad Reza Hashemi , Jafari Amir Homayoun
Published: October 2014

Estimating parameters of a model system using observed chaotic scalar time series data is a topic of active interest. To estimate these parameters requires a suitable similarity indicator between the observed and model systems. Many works have considered a similarity measure in the time domain, which has limitations because of sensitive dependence on initial conditions. On the other hand, there are features of chaotic systems that are not sensitive to initial conditions such as the topology of the strange attractor. We have used this feature to propose a new cost function for parameter estimation of chaotic models, and we show its efficacy for several simple chaotic systems.
Torsion pairs and filtrations in abelian categories with tilting objects
Authors: Lo Jason
Published: November 2014

Given a noetherian abelian k-category [Formula: see text] of finite homological dimension, with a tilting object T of projective dimension 2, the abelian category [Formula: see text] and the abelian category of modules over End (T) op are related by a sequence of two tilts; we give an explicit description of the torsion pairs involved. We then use our techniques to obtain a simplified proof of a theorem of Jensen–Madsen–Su, that [Formula: see text] has a three-step filtration by extension-closed subcategories. Finally, we generalize Jensen–Madsen–Su's filtration to the case where T has any finite projective dimension.
Torsion in kernels of induced maps on divisor class groups
Authors: Sather-Wagstaff Sean , Spiroff Sandra
Published: November 2014

We investigate torsion elements in the kernel of the map on divisor class groups of excellent local normal domains A and A/I, for an ideal I of finite projective dimension. The motivation for this work is a result of Griffith–Weston which applies when I is principal.
The Bell states in noncommutative algebraic geometry
Authors: Beil Charlie
Published: October 2014

We introduce new mathematical aspects of the Bell states using matrix factorizations, non-noetherian singularities, and noncommutative blowups. A matrix factorization of a polynomial p consists of two matrices ϕ1, ϕ2such that ϕ1ϕ2= ϕ2ϕ1= p id. Using this notion, we show how the Bell states emerge from the separable product of two mixtures, by defining pure states over complex matrices rather than just the complex numbers. We then show in an idealized algebraic setting that pure states are supported on non-noetherian singularities. Moreover, we find that the collapse of a Bell state is intimately related to the representation theory of the noncommutative blowup along its singular support. This presents an exchange in geometry: the nonlocal commutative spacetime of the entangled state emerges from an underlying local noncommutative spacetime.
Unexpected formation of a triphyrin in the reaction of dibromodipyrromethene and N,N-dimethylaminoethanol
Authors: Shimizu Soji , Hirokawa Shoma , Kobayashi Nagao
Published: October 2014

A novel triphyrin was unexpectedly formed as a major by-product in the synthesis of meso-aryl-substituted dibenzo-5,10,15-triazaporphyrin from meso-aryl-substituted 1,9-dibromodipyrromethene and 5,6-diaryl-substituted 1,3-diiminoisoindoline in the presence of N,N-dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE). X-ray single crystal diffraction analysis elucidated that the terminal α-positions of this triphyrin were bridged by an N-methylaminoethoxy chain, which plausibly originated from DMAE during the reaction. The same compound was also obtained as a major product in the reaction of DMAE and meso-aryl-substituted 1,9-dibromodipyrromethene. Its unique properties, such as conformational flexibility of the bridging moiety and broad absorption in the visible region, were also revealed by 1 H NMR and UV-vis absorption spectroscopies.
One-dimensional phthalocyanine-based conductor with S = 3/2 isotropic magnetic centers
Authors: Takita Yusuke , Hasegawa Hiroyuki , Takahashi Yukihiro , Harada Jun , Kanda Akinori , Hanasaki Noriaki , Inabe Tamotsu
Published: October 2014

The axially ligated phthalocyanine conductor of TPP [ Cr ( Pc )( CN )2]2 (TPP = tetraphenylphosphonium and Pc = phthalocyaninato) with d3 (S = 3/2) metal Cr III has been successfully prepared. The crystal is completely isomorphous with those of the Co and Fe analogs, and the degree of π–π interaction is almost the same in these three salts. The electrical conductivity at room temperature of the Cr system is almost the same with that of the Fe system in which S = 1/2 magnetic centers embedded in the conduction path, and the temperature dependence reveals the development of the charge disproportionation reflecting the existence of magnetic moments. Magnetic susceptibility of the Cr system shows Curie-like behavior with isotropic local moments of S = 3/2. In contrast with the Fe system, only weak antiferromagnetic interaction operates between the localized d-spins. The resistance decreases when magnetic fields are applied, but the magnetoresistance effect is not so large compared with the Fe system, indicating that the π– d interaction in the Cr system is somewhat different from that in the Fe system.
Redox-controlled selenide mineralization in the Upper Old Red Sandstone
Authors: Spinks Samuel C. , Parnell John , Still John W.
Published: October 2014

Synopsis

Selenium concentrations occur in organic-rich lithologies such as coal, and as secondary accumulations from the oxidative mobilization, migration and subsequent concentration upon encountering reductants such as organic matter or H
2
S. Here we assess the redox mineralization of copper and lead selenide phases in the cores of reduction spheroids in Devonian sedimentary red beds. We propose that the selenide mineralization occurred as descending meteoric fluids, supplied with selenium from Carboniferous coal seams, migrated through a major fault plane into underlying sandstones where localized, microbially-induced reducing conditions prevailed. These findings and other occurrences of selenide mineralization between Devonian and Carboniferous strata on the British Isles suggest a widespread selenide mineralization system between strata of that age.

Supplementary material:

Detailed quantitative methodologies and supplementary data are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18770
.
An improved chronology for the Arthur’s Seat volcano and Carboniferous magmatism of the Midland Valley of Scotland
Authors: Monaghan Alison A. , Browne Mike A. E. , Barfod Dan N.
Published: October 2014

Synopsis

The Early Carboniferous Arthur’s Seat volcano in central Edinburgh is of geological significance and landscape value but lacks a precise chronology. New
40
Ar/
39
Ar step-heating plateau analyses date the lowest Lava 1 of the eruptive sequence to 341.2 ± 0.8 Ma (Visean, Holkerian), with Lava 3a at 336.7 ± 4.7 Ma. Intrusive or lava-lake basalts within the Lion’s Haunch Vent are precisely dated at 338 ± 0.6 Ma at Dunsapie and 335.1 ± 0.6 Ma at Crow Hill (Visean, Asbian). Taken together with existing
40
Ar/
39
Ar dates recalculated to recent decay constant and standard values, and U/Pb dates, a revised magmatic chronology consistent with biostratigraphy is presented for the Midland Valley of Scotland. The Garleton Hills Volcanic Formation is older than the Arthur’s Seat Volcanic Formation, whereas the Clyde Plateau and Arthur’s Seat volcanic formations are partly coeval, requiring minor re-adjustments to existing stratigraphy.

Supplementary material:

Excel spreadsheets with raw analytical data and recalculation of existing
40
Ar/
39
Ar ages are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18773
.
Quasirandom Rumor Spreading
Authors: Doerr Benjamin , Friedrich Tobias , Sauerwald Thomas
Published: October 2014

We propose and analyze a quasirandom analogue of the classical push model for disseminating information in networks (“randomized rumor spreading”). In the classical model, in each round, each informed vertex chooses a neighbor at random and informs it, if it was not informed before. It is known that this simple protocol succeeds in spreading a rumor from one vertex to all others within
O
(log
n
) rounds on complete graphs, hypercubes, random regular graphs, Erdős-Rényi random graphs, and Ramanujan graphs with probability 1 −
o
(1). In the quasirandom model, we assume that each vertex has a (cyclic) list of its neighbors. Once informed, it starts at a random position on the list, but from then on informs its neighbors in the order of the list. Surprisingly, irrespective of the orders of the lists, the above-mentioned bounds still hold. In some cases, even better bounds than for the classical model can be shown.
Antisocial computing
Authors: McDonald David W. , Ackley David H. , Bryant Randal , Gedney Melissa , Hirsh Haym , Shanley Lea
Published: October 2014

Social media has become globally ubiquitous, transforming how people are networked and mobilized. This forum explores research and applications of these new networked publics at individual, organizational, and societal levels.
---Shelly Farnham, Editor
Diaphragm muscle weakness in mice is early-onset post-myocardial infarction and associated with elevated protein oxidation
Authors: Scott Bowen T. , Mangner Norman , Werner Sarah , Glaser Stefanie , Kullnick Yvonne , Schrepper Andrea , Doenst Torsten , Oberbach Andreas , Linke Axel , Steil Leif , Schuler Gerhard , Adams Volker
Published: October 2014

Heart failure induced by myocardial infarction (MI) causes diaphragm muscle weakness, with elevated oxidants implicated. We aimed to determine whether diaphragm muscle weakness is 1) early-onset post-MI (i.e., within the early left ventricular remodeling phase of 72 h); and 2) associated with elevated protein oxidation. Ligation of the left coronary artery to induce MI ( n = 10) or sham operation ( n = 10) was performed on C57BL6 mice. In vitro contractile function of diaphragm muscle fiber bundles was assessed 72 h later. Diaphragm mRNA and protein expression, enzyme activity, and individual carbonylated proteins (by two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry) were subsequently assessed. Infarct size averaged 57 ± 1%. Maximal diaphragm function was reduced ( P < 0.01) by 20% post-MI, with the force-frequency relationship depressed ( P < 0.01) between 80 and 300 Hz. The mRNA expression of inflammation, atrophy, and regulatory Ca2+ proteins remained unchanged post-MI, as did the protein expression of key contractile proteins. However, enzyme activity of the oxidative sources NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase was increased ( P < 0.01) by 45 and 33%, respectively. Compared with sham, a 57 and 45% increase ( P < 0.05) was observed in the carbonylation of sarcomeric actin and creatine kinase post-MI, respectively. In conclusion, diaphragm muscle weakness was rapidly induced in mice during the early left ventricular remodeling phase of 72 h post-MI, which was associated with increased oxidation of contractile and energetic proteins. Collectively, these findings suggest diaphragm muscle weakness may be early onset in heart failure, which is likely mediated in part by posttranslational oxidative modifications at the myofibrillar level.
Anton’s Syndrome due to Bilateral Ischemic Occipital Lobe Strokes
Authors: Zukić Sanela , Sinanović Osman , Zonić Lejla , Hodžić Renata , Mujagić Svjetlana , Smajlović Edina
Published: November 2014

We present a case of a patient with Anton’s syndrome (i.e., visual anosognosia with confabulations), who developed bilateral occipital lobe infarct. Bilateral occipital brain damage results in blindness, and patients start to confabulate to fill in the missing sensory input. In addition, the patient occasionally becomes agitated and talks to himself, which indicates that, besides Anton’s syndrome, he might have had Charles Bonnet syndrome, characterized by both visual loss and hallucinations. Anton syndrome, is not so frequent condition and is most commonly caused by ischemic stroke. In this particular case, the patient had successive bilateral occipital ischemia as a result of massive stenoses of head and neck arteries.
Generalized Framework for Similarity Measure of Time Series
Authors: Yin Hongsheng , Qi Honggang , Xu Jingwen , Hung William N. N. , Song Xiaoyu
Published: November 2014

Currently, there is no definitive and uniform description for the similarity of time series, which results in difficulties for relevant research on this topic. In this paper, we propose a generalized framework to measure the similarity of time series. In this generalized framework, whether the time series is univariable or multivariable, and linear transformed or nonlinear transformed, the similarity of time series is uniformly defined using norms of vectors or matrices. The definitions of the similarity of time series in the original space and the transformed space are proved to be equivalent. Furthermore, we also extend the theory on similarity of univariable time series to multivariable time series. We present some experimental results on published time series datasets tested with the proposed similarity measure function of time series. Through the proofs and experiments, it can be claimed that the similarity measure functions of linear multivariable time series based on the norm distance of covariance matrix and nonlinear multivariable time series based on kernel function are reasonable and practical.
An Improved Effective Cost Review Process for Value Engineering
Authors: Joo D. S. , Park J. I.
Published: November 2014

Second-look value engineering (VE) is an approach that aims to lower the costs of products for which target costs are not being met during the production stage. Participants in second-look VE typically come up with a variety of ideas for cost cutting, but the outcomes often depend on their levels of experience, and not many good alternatives are available during the production stage. Nonetheless, good ideas have been consistently generated by VE experts. This paper investigates past second-look VE cases and the thinking processes of VE experts and proposes a cost review process as a systematic means of investigating cost-cutting ideas. This cost review process includes the use of an idea checklist and a specification review process. In addition to presenting the process, this paper reports on its feasibility, based on its introduction into a VE training course as part of a pilot study. The results indicate that the cost review process is effective in generating ideas for later analysis.
Cholesterol-Lowering Potentials of Lactic Acid Bacteria Based on Bile-Salt Hydrolase Activity and Effect of Potent Strains on Cholesterol MetabolismIn VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Chih , Lin Pei-Pei , Hsieh You-Miin , Zhang Zi-yi , Wu Hui-Ching , Huang Chun-Chih
Published: November 2014

This study collected different probiotic isolates from animal and plant sources to evaluate the bile-salt hydrolase activity of probioticsin vitro. The deconjugation potential of bile acid was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. HepG2 cells were cultured with probiotic strains with high BSH activity. The triglyceride (TG) and apolipoprotein B (apo B) secretion by HepG2 cells were evaluated. Our results show that the BSH activity and bile-acid deconjugation abilities ofPediococcus acidilacticiNBHK002,Bifidobacterium adolescentisNBHK006,Lactobacillus rhamnosusNBHK007, andLactobacillus acidophilusNBHK008 were higher than those of the other probiotic strains. The cholesterol concentration in cholesterol micelles was reduced within 24 h. NBHK007 reduced the TG secretion by 100% after 48 h of incubation. NBHK002, NBHK006, and NBHK007 could reduce apo B secretion by 33%, 38%, and 39%, respectively, after 24 h of incubation. The product PROBIO S-23 produced a greater decrease in the total concentration of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, TG, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance in the serum or livers of hamsters with hypercholesterolemia compared with that of hamsters fed with a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet. These results show that the three probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria are better candidates for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Proximal Row Carpectomy for Coexisting Kienböck’s Disease and Giant Intraosseous Ganglion of the Scaphoid: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Morón Miguel , Oellig Florian , Sánchez Tomás
Published: November 2014

The etiologies of Keinböck’s disease and intraosseous ganglion remain unknown. Both entities are rare and the coexistence of these two pathologies in the same patient and hand is even less frequent. We report the case of a 40-year-old man with a longstanding history of martial arts practice (karate) who developed an avascular necrosis of the lunate concomitant with a giant intraosseous ganglion of the scaphoid bone successfully managed by proximal row carpectomy. We review the literature of these two diseases.
Lung Cancer Incidence Trends by Histology Type among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Populations in the United States, 1990–2010
Authors: Cheng Iona , Le Gem M. , Noone Anne-Michelle , Gali Kathleen , Patel Manali , Haile Robert W. , Wakelee Heather A. , Gomez Scarlett L.
Published: November 2014

Background: Lung cancer is one of the leading cancer sites diagnosed among Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Native Hawaiians (AANHPI). To better understand the patterns of lung cancer incidence among AANHPIs, we examined the incidence trends of five histologic cell types of lung cancer across ten AANHPI populations in comparison with non-Hispanic Whites.

Methods: Lung cancer incidence data from 1990 through 2010 were obtained from 13 U.S. population-based cancer registries. Age-adjusted histologic cell-type–specific incidence rates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Joinpoint regression models and annual percentage change (APC) statistics were used to characterize the magnitude and direction of trends.

Results: From 1990 through 2010, incidence rates of adenocarcinoma increased significantly for Filipino and Korean women with a 2.6% and 3.0% annual percentage increase, respectively. More recently, a significant rise in the incidence of adenocarcinoma was observed for Chinese men (1996–2010; APC = 1.3%). Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) increased 2.4% per year among Japanese women. For SCC, small cell lung carcinoma, large cell and other specified carcinoma, and unspecified types, stable or decreasing trends were observed in most AANHPI groups and non-Hispanic Whites.

Conclusions: AANHPIs demonstrate a range in the burden of lung cancer across histologies and specific populations.

Impact: These findings illustrate the importance of disaggregating AANHPIs into their specific populations. The rise in incidence of adenocarcinoma and SCC among certain AANHPIs demonstrates the need for research into non-tobacco associated risk factors for these populations and targeted efforts for tobacco prevention.

See all the articles in this CEBP Focus section, “Cancer in Asian and Pacific Islander Populations.”

Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(11); 2250–65. ©2014 AACR.
Cancer Research in Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Populations: Accelerating Cancer Knowledge by Acknowledging and Leveraging Heterogeneity
Authors: Gomez Scarlett Lin , Glaser Sally L. , Horn-Ross Pamela L. , Cheng Iona , Quach Thu , Clarke Christina A. , Reynolds Peggy , Shariff-Marco Salma , Yang Juan , Lee Marion M. , Satariano William A. , Hsing Ann W.
Published: November 2014

The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander population is large, growing, and extremely heterogeneous. Not only do they bear unique burdens of incidence and outcomes for certain cancer types, they exhibit substantial variability in cancer incidence and survival patterns across the ethnic groups. By acknowledging and leveraging this heterogeneity through investing in cancer research within these populations, we have a unique opportunity to accelerate the availability of useful and impactful cancer knowledge.

See all the articles in this CEBP Focus section, “Cancer in Asian and Pacific Islander Populations.”

Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(11); 2202–5. ©2014 AACR.
Insights into the Mechanism of Organ-Specific Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Rubin Mark A.
Published: November 2014

Summary: Lucas and colleagues nominate transmembrane serine protease type II (TMPRSS2) as an important player in the initiation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in prostate cancer. Cancer cells maintain androgen receptor–regulated cytoplasmic TMPRSS2 expression, which facilitates EMT invasion and metastasis in model systems through hepatocyte growth factor and c-MET signaling. In addition to providing a rationale for potentially targeting this organ-specific enabler of metastatic disease progression, this study also highlights the importance of understanding how organ/tissue–specific genes are co-opted in the context of cancer. Cancer Discov; 4(11); 1262–4. ©2014 AACR.

See related article by Lucas et al., p. 1310
The Immunological Synapse
Authors: Dustin Michael L.
Published: November 2014

The molecular interactions underlying regulation of the immune response take place in a nanoscale gap between T cells and antigen-presenting cells, termed the immunological synapse. If these interactions are regulated appropriately, the host is defended against a wide range of pathogens and deranged host cells. If these interactions are disregulated, the host is susceptible to pathogens or tumor escape at one extreme and autoimmunity at the other. Strategies targeting the synapse have helped to establish immunotherapy as a mainstream element in cancer treatment. This Masters' primer will cover the basics of the immunological synapse and some of the applications to tumor immunology. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(11); 1023–33. ©2014 AACR.
Relation of the rs6923761 Gene Variant in Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor to Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Subjects
Authors: de Luis Daniel Antonio , Bachiller Rosario , Izaola Olatz , de la Fuente Beatriz , Aller Rocío
Published: October 2014

Background: The role of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) variants in metabolic syndrome (MS) and its components remains unclear in obese subjects. Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship of rs6923761 with MS and its components in obese subjects. Design: A population of 1,122 obese subjects was analyzed in a cross-sectional survey. To estimate the prevalence of MS, we considered the definitions of the Adult Treatment Panel III. Results: Five hundred and forty-eight patients (48.8%) had the GG genotype (wild-type group), whereas 487 patients (43.4%) had the GA genotype and 87 patients (7.8%) the AA genotype. The mean age was 48.9 ± 12.8 years. The prevalence of MS was 47.4% (532 patients), and 52.6% of patients had no MS (n = 590). The odds ratio of MS for the wild-type versus the mutant genotype was 1.02, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.88-1.12. Body mass index, weight, fat mass, waist circumference, and waist to hip ratio were lower in the mutant than in the wild-type group in patients with and without MS. Conclusion: The GLP-1 receptor variant rs6923761 was found to be associated with decreased weight and anthropometric parameters in A allele carriers with and without MS. MS or its components were not associated with this polymorphism in obese adults.
Water and Electrolyte Disorders at Long-Term Post-Treatment Follow-Up in Paediatric Patients with Suprasellar Tumours Include Unexpected Persistent Cerebral Salt-Wasting Syndrome
Authors: González Briceño Laura , Grill Jacques , Bourdeaut Franck , Doz François , Beltrand Jacques , Benabbad Imane , Brugières Laurence , Dufour Christelle , Valteau-Couanet Dominique , Guerrini-Rousseau Léa , Aerts Isabelle , Orbach Daniel , Alapetite Claire , Samara-Boustani Dinane , Pinto Graziella , Simon Albane , Touraine Philippe , Sainte-Rose Christian , Zerah Michel , Puget Stéphanie , Elie Caroline , Polak Michel
Published: November 2014

Background: Patients with brain tumours have a high risk of water and electrolyte disorders (WED). Postsurgery diabetes insipidus (DI) may be transient or permanent, the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) and cerebral salt-wasting syndrome (CSWS) are usually transient. Methods: Retrospective study, including patients with suprasellar tumours, treated at Hôpital Necker, Institut Gustave-Roussy or Institut Curie, in Île-de-France, between 2007 and 2011. WED were noted if they persisted >1 month after surgery. Results: 159 patients were included, 54.1% girls, 43.9% boys. Tumour types were: glioma (43.4%), craniopharyngioma (43.4%), germinoma (11.3%), others (1.9%). Age at diagnosis was 7.1 ± 4.6 years. The median time from end of treatment was 1.9 (0-7.8) years. DI was the most frequent disorder after tumour treatment (50.3%) and was significantly associated with surgery (p < 0.001). Persistent CSWS was present in 3.6%, persistent SIADH in 1.3%. Two cases of hypernatraemia were due to adipsia. Thyrotropin deficiency after treatment was noted in 68.9% of patients tested, adrenocorticotropin deficiency in 66.2%. Conclusions: Patients with suprasellar tumours have a high incidence of long-term WED, mainly DI. Assessment of thyrotroph and corticotroph function, and thirst sensation, is necessary to diagnose and manage these disorders correctly. CSWS may be persistent in few patients and requires special attention to prescribe the appropriate care.
Increased Plasma S-Adenosylhomocysteine–Accelerated Atherosclerosis Is Associated With Epigenetic Regulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in apoE
−/−
Mice
Authors: Xiao Yunjun , Huang Wei , Zhang Jinzhou , Peng Chaoqiong , Xia Min , Ling Wenhua
Published: October 2014

Objective—

S-Adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) is a better predictor of cardiovascular disease than homocysteine is, and it has been implicated in mediating the pathogenicity of hyperhomocysteinemia in atherosclerosis via an epigenetic mechanism. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis whether the effect of SAH on atherosclerosis is involved in epigenetic regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Approach and Results—

A total of 48 apolipoprotein E–deficient mice at 8 weeks were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=12 for each group). The control group was fed a conventional diet, the adenosine dialdehyde group was fed a diet that was supplemented with the SAH hydrolase inhibitor adenosine dialdehyde, and the other 2 groups were intravenously injected with a retrovirus that expressed either SAH hydrolase short hairpin RNA or scrambled short hairpin RNA semiweekly for 16 weeks. Plasma SAH levels and atherosclerotic lesion size were significantly increased in adenosine dialdehyde and SAH hydrolase short hairpin RNA groups when compared with control group. Expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers glucose-regulated protein-78 and CEBP-homologous protein was significantly increased in the mice with elevated plasma SAH levels. Moreover, plasma SAH was negatively associated with a decrease in the expression of trimethylated histone H3 lysine 9 and histone methyltransferases. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed a significant decrease in trimethylated histone H3 lysine 9 occupancy at the glucose-regulated protein-78 and CEBP-homologous protein promoters in mice treated with adenosine dialdehyde and SAH hydrolase short hairpin RNA when compared with control mice.

Conclusions—

Our results suggest that elevated plasma SAH levels–accelerated atherosclerosis was associated with the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress via modulation of histone methylation.
Fractalkine Promotes Human Monocyte Survival via a Reduction in Oxidative Stress
Authors: White Gemma E. , McNeill Eileen , Channon Keith M. , Greaves David R.
Published: October 2014

Objective—

The CX3C chemokine fractalkine (CX3CL1) has a critical role in the development of atherogenesis because apolipoprotein-E–deficient mice lacking CX3CL1 or its receptor CX3CR1 develop smaller plaques and polymorphisms in CX3CR1 are associated with altered risk of cardiovascular disease. CX3CR1 is found on numerous cell types involved in atherogenesis but seems to have a key role in monocyte function. We aimed to elucidate the role of CX3CL1 in human monocyte survival and determine the mechanism by which CX3CL1 spares monocytes from apoptosis.

Approach and Results—

Primary human monocytes were prepared from healthy donors and subjected to serum-starvation to induce spontaneous apoptosis. The addition of CX3CL1, but not other chemokines tested, promoted monocyte survival in a dose-dependent manner with full-length CX3CL1 (including the mucin stalk) having a more potent antiapoptotic effect than chemokine-domain CX3CL1. The prosurvival effect of CX3CL1 was evident in both monocyte subsets although nonclassical monocytes were more prone to spontaneous apoptosis. In addition, we found that the effect of CX3CL1 was independent of CX3CR1 genotype. Serum-starvation increased the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species, and this was reduced by the addition of CX3CL1. Inhibition of oxidative stress with an antioxidant prevented monocyte apoptosis, indicating that this is the dominant mechanism of cell death targeted by CX3CL1.

Conclusions—

CX3CL1 has a substantial and highly reproducible antiapoptotic effect on human monocytes, via a mechanism involving a reduction in oxidative stress. This suggests that CX3CL1 is likely to play a key role in human atherogenesis and may provide a novel therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease.