bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ORNITHINE DECARBOXYLASE GENE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN LUNG ADENOCARCINOMA CELL (A549) TREATED WITH POMEGRANATE JUICE
Authors: Abdul Ghani Radiah , Nik Abdul Malek Nik Nurasyikin , Md. Yusof Najwa Farhah , Jamil Elyna Fatini
Published: December 2015

The polyamine biosynthesis pathway plays a significant role in cell growth, both normal and malignant. As polyamines are crucial in cellular growth and differentiation, they are linked to the development of cancer, with higher polyamine level observed in cancerous cells than in healthy cells. Accordingly, suppressing the polyamine pathway has been found to disrupt tumour development. Chemoprevention is considered a more feasible option in cancer management than chemotherapy, with a focus on natural chemopreventive agent. Pomegranate is known to inhibit several progression of lung cancer, although prior studies on the chemopreventive effect of pomegranate on lung cancer did not explore into polyamine pathway. Hence, this study investigated the effect of pomegranate juice on the polyamine pathway, by focusing on the biosynthesis involving ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the rate limiting enzyme in the pathway. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was applied to quantify the changes in ODC gene expression in A549 cells treated with pomegranate. The inhibition of growth was determined using Trypan Blue exclusion and the changes in intracellular polyamine in pomegranate treated cells was observed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). It was found that there was inhibition of A549 cell growth and reduced in intracellular polyamine content in pomegranate treated cells. The ODC expression was significantly inhibited compared to untreated cells, with a 48-fold difference.  While this finding supports the hypothesis, there is much yet to be elucidated regarding its exact mechanism.
IDENTIFYING THE POTENTIAL OF TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR SOX9 GENE TRANSFER IN CHONDROCYTES DIFFERENTIATION AND ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FORMATION IN VITRO
Authors: Mohamad Sukri Norhamiza , Ahmad Radzi Muhammad Aa’zamuddin , Abdul Rahman Rozlin , Zulkifly Ahmad Hafiz , Abdulahi Hashi Abdurezak , Sha’ban Munirah
Published: December 2015

Sox9 plays an important role as transcription factor for chondrogenesis; the formation of cartilage. This study aimed to identify the potential of the transiently overexpressed Sox9 gene in human chondrocytes differentiation and tissue engineered cartilage (TEC) formation in vitro. Articular cartilage samples were obtained from osteoarthritic patients who underwent joint replacement surgery. The isolated chondrocytes were cultured and transfected with pcDNA3-Sox9 using lipofection technique. The TEC constructs were formed by incorporating the transfected and the non-transfected cells onto poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffold with or without fibrin. This approach allows a comparison between four groups i.e. (1) transfected chondrocytes seeded on PLGA/fibrin [PFTC], (2) non-transfected chondrocytes on PLGA/fibrin [PFC], (3) transfected chondrocytes on PLGA [PTC] and (4) non-transfected chondrocytes on PLGA [PC]. All TEC constructs were cultured and evaluated at each time point of 1, 2 and 3 weeks in vitro. All TEC constructs were analysed for gross observation, histology, immunohistochemistry, cell proliferation activity, gene expression and sulphated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) production assay. After 3 weeks, all PFTC and PFC showed higher cell viability, higher sGAG content, better histological features and distribution of extracellular matrix in concert with positive glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation when compared to the PTC and PC. However, at week 3, the PFC and PC exhibited significantly higher sGAG production than PFTC and PTC. Chondrogenic properties of the constructs were evidenced by the expression of cartilage-specific markers; collagen II, collagen XI and aggrecan core protein. In this study, due to the nature of a new cartilage formation, the co-expression of collagen I in all constructs can be an indication of early cartilage development. Based on the outcomes, it is hoped that this study will provide a good ground for future tissue engineering application.
IDENTIFICATION OF TROPOMYOSIN AS THE MAJOR ALLERGEN OF BLACK TIGER PRAWN (PENAEUS MONODON) BY AN ALLERGENOMIC APPROACH
Authors: Misnan Rosmilah , Kamarazaman Noor Asyikin , Mohd Yadzir Zailatul Hani , Abdullah Noormalin , Bakhtiar Mohd Faizal , Murad Shahnaz
Published: December 2015

Shellfish has been recognized as one of the leading causes of food allergy in both adults and children in Asia Pacific region. In Malaysia, black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) is among the most widely consumed species. Our previous studies have successfully identified several major allergens including a thermostable protein of 36 kDa. Thus the aim of this study was to identify the 36 kDa major allergen by an allergenomic approach. Protein extracts of raw prown were prepared and resolved by 2-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE). Immunoblotting was then performed using sera from patients with prawn allergy. Selected spot from 2-DE was then excised, digested and analyzed by mass spectrometry. The 2-DE profile of the extract revealed approximately 100 protein spots between pH of ~4 to 10 and the size range between (<10 to 250 kDa). The 2-DE immunoblotting has detected numerous IgE-binding spots at 36 kDa. Mass spectrometry analysis of the major IgE-binding spot (spot 1a) has identified the 36 kDa spot as tropomyosin. Our findings indicated that tropomyosin play a major role in allergic reaction to black tiger prawn among local patients with prawn allergy, and should be included in diagnostics and therapeutic strategies of this allergy.
INVESTIGATION ON THE DIFFERENCE EXPRESSION OF TYPE IV COLLAGEN 1(IV)- 6(IV) CHAIN MRNA IN NORMAL FIBROBLAST AND IN SKIN CELL MALIGNANT MELANOMA
Authors: Mohammad Mardhiah , Mat Yusof Afzan , Mohideen Syahirah Kaja , Syed Bahrom Sharifah Norbaizura , Roshdi Ridhwan , Parman Adibah
Published: December 2015

Collagen IV is the major basement membrane protein that influences adhesion, proliferation, and migration of cells. The collagen composed of a network chains a1 to a6. The characterization of this collagen IV will correlates the relationship of collagen gene expression and cancer. This is important in order to provide more detailed understanding of the expression of collagen in tumor cells. . The aim of this study is to determine the a1 to a6 (IV) mRNA expression in the cell lines obtained from skin and melanoma cell. To investigate the mRNA expression, the RNA was extracted from the fibroblast and melanoma (A375) cell lines. The RNA was subjected to reverse transcription and then synthesized. The mRNA expression levels were measured using real time PCR with related to internal control, GAPDH. The study identified that a1, a2, a4, a5 and a6 of the a1-a6 (IV) were expressed in skin fibroblast. This corresponds to the a1a1a2 and a5a5a6 networks. However, in melanoma cell lines the collagen IV a2, a4, a5 and a6 mRNA was observed in low level compared to a1 and this suggested that the tumor has affected the expression of collagen and basement membrane of the cell.
Analysis of complications of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Russo Raffaele , Rotonda Giuseppe , Ciccarelli Michele , Cautiero Fabio
Published: December 2015

Purpose: the aim of this study was to analyze complications of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) used to treat different shoulder diseases.

Methods: from March 2000 to March 2013, 195 RTSA were implanted by the senior Author. The indications for reverse prosthesis surgery were secondary osteoarthritis (OA) in 49 cases, irreparable rotator cuff tear (RCT) in 48 cases, and complex humeral fractures in 75 cases, while 19 were patients requiring surgical revision for first prosthesis implant. We used different prostheses with different designs.

Results: the clinical and radiological results of all the patients were analyzed retrospectively at an average follow-up of 7 years. The cases were divided into four groups on the basis of the diagnosis and complications were classified as perioperative, postoperative, or late. The mean total Constant score improved from 28 to 69 points in the OA group; from 21 to 70.8 points in the irreparable RCT group, to 76.4 in the fracture group, and from 16.6 to 59.8 points in the revision group. Scapular notching was observed in 59 cases (30.2%). Thirty-three other complications (16.9%) were observed, namely: hematomas (n=3), instability of the humeral component (n=1), scapular spine fractures (n=2), ulnar nerve deficit (n=2), long thoracic nerve palsy (n=2), deep infections (n=2), periprosthetic fractures (n=6), glenoid fractures (n=2), implant loosening (n=2), anterior deltoid muscle deficiency (n=2) and periarticular heterotopic calcifications (n=9).

Conclusions: the rates of complications, especially fractures, reported in the present study were lower than those reported in the current literature.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Anatomic shoulder arthroplasty: an update on indications, technique, results and complication rates
Authors: Mattei Lorenzo , Mortera Stefano , Arrigoni Chiara , Castoldi Filippo
Published: December 2015

A shoulder replacement is indicated in patients affected by glenohumeral arthropathy with severely reduced range of motion, persistent pain, especially at night, and loss of strength. There is much discussion in the scientific community about the prosthetic options for these cases: hemiarthroplasty, anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. We analyzed the indications for, results of, and complications associated with this kind of surgery, focusing on anatomic arthroplasty and on the concept of modularity.
Herramientas didácticas para el desarrollo técnico musical del guitarrista clásico a través de ejes problémicos
Authors: Quevedo Barrero Cesar Augusto , Samper Arbeláez Andrés , Posada Ramos Carlos
Published: December 2015

Este artículo presenta los resultados de un estudio desarrollado por el área de guitarra clásica del  Departamento de Música de la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (PUJ) en Bogotá, Colombia. El estudio indagó sobre las dificultades técnico-musicales más recurrentes entre estudiantes de guitarra de los programas infantil y juvenil, pregrado y posgrado de la PUJ. Con base en las dificultades detectadas se realizó una recopilación de material musical para apoyar el desarrollo de habilidades en la formación del guitarrista clásico. El material pedagógico resultante hace énfasis en el desarrollo musical, plantea  una estructura no lineal de aprendizaje, incorpora el uso de materiales latino americanos e incluye ejercicios de improvisación, lectura a primera vista y grafías no convencionales. La metodología empleada fue de carácter cualitativo y se fundamentó en un ejercicio triple de reflexión didáctica, sistematización de materiales existentes y creación de piezas originales.
La organización del estudio instrumental: un factor incidente en las molestias musculo-esqueléticas en clarinetistas.
Authors: Calvo Soto Andrea Patricia , Castaño Betancourt Edilberto , Gómez Esperanza
Published: December 2015

Se realizó una investigación para conocer los hábitos de estudio de estudiantes de clarinete, en 3 instituciones de la ciudad de Cali-Colombia. Un estudio descriptivo transversal, usando una encuesta sobre los tiempos de estudio, posturas, periodos de descanso etc. La muestra fue 12 estudiantes entre 18 -36 años. Respondieron que llevaban más de 5 años de interpretación y estudiaban 3 a 6 días a la semana, 2 a 3 sesiones diarias. Practicaban entre una hora y media a 3 horas. Estudiaban sin pausa por 40 minutos o más, las pausas fueron variables. No realizaban ejercicio físico o de calentamiento/entrenamiento. La prueba de Fisher p=0.061, mostró una tendencia alta en relación con la duración de sesiones de estudio regular y de estudio para recitales, exámenes o presentaciones. No hubo diferencias significativas entre los hábitos de estudio y el nivel de formación. Conclusión: los estudiantes no tienen una forma estandarizada de estudio.
UNA PROPUESTA EXPERIMENTAL EN LA ENSEÑANZA DE LA MÚSICA EN SECUNDARIA
Authors: BOTELLA NICOLÁS ANA MARÍA , ADELL VALERO JOSÉ RAFAEL
Published: December 2015

En el presente artículo se pretende describir una experiencia enfocada hacia la enseñanza de la Música en Secundaria, aplicando el Método Cooperativo por Proyectos. Se trata de determinar su eficacia y pertinencia en el marco del aprendizaje por competencias mediante un proceso de investigación-acción que se llevó a cabo con alumnos de 2º y 3º de ESO.  Para comprobar su efectividad se ha contrastado dicho método con otro de referencia: la Clase Magistral. Las conclusiones se justifican mediante un análisis estadístico, realizado de manera cualitativa y cuantitativa.

La propuesta se realiza con el fin de comprobar si ésta experiencia da respuesta a las necesidades sociales que exige el mundo actual y también si favorece que el alumnado piense y actúe de manera reflexiva colaborando con los demás y actuando desde una perspectiva creativa y crítica, siguiendo los conceptos teóricos de Schafer, Delalande, Reibel y Paynter.
Effects of Pilates Exercise on Salivary Secretory Immunoglobulin A Levels in Older Women
Authors: Hwang Yoonyoung , Park Jonghoon , Lim Kiwon
Published: December 2015

We examined the effects of a Pilates exercise program on the mucosal immune function in older women. The study population comprised 12 older women who were divided into a Pilates group (PG, n = 6) and a control group (CG, n = 6). Saliva samples were obtained from both groups before and after the experimental period for salivary secretory immunoglobulin A level measurement. In addition, acute high-intensity exercises were performed before and after the three-month Pilates exercise program. After three months, salivary flow was significantly higher in the PG than in the CG. After the acute high-intensity exercises were performed following the three-month Pilates exercise program, the salivary flow rate was significantly higher at all time points. The S-IgA secretion rate significantly increased 30 min after acute high-intensity exercise performed following the three-month Pilates exercise program. This study suggests that regular participation in a moderate-intensity Pilates exercise program can increase salivary flow rate and S-IgA secretion in older women.
Small animal disease surveillance
Authors: Sánchez‐Vizcaíno Fernando , Jones Philip H. , Menacere Tarek , Heayns Bethaney , Wardeh Maya , Newman Jenny , Radford Alan D. , Dawson Susan , Gaskell Rosalind , Noble Peter J. M. , Everitt Sally , Day Michael J. , McConnell Katie
Published: December 2015

This is the first UK small animal disease surveillance report from SAVSNET. Future reports will expand to other syndromes and diseases. As data are collected for longer, the estimates of changes in disease burden will become more refined, allowing more targeted local and perhaps national interventions. Anonymised data can be accessed for research purposes by contacting the authors. SAVSNET welcomes feedback on this report.
Aeronian (Llandovery, Silurian) conodonts from the Densmore Creek Phosphate Bed and the Budd Road Phosphate Bed, Clinton Group, western New York State
Authors: Waid Christopher B. , Over D. Jeffrey
Published: December 2015

Conodonts from the Densmore Creek Phosphate Bed at the base of the Maplewood Shale in Irondequoit, New York, include Panderodus unicostatus, Pranognathus tenuis, and Icriodella discreta. The taxa Ozarkodina cf. Oz. hassi, Pranognathus tenuis, Oulodus panuarensis, Panderodus unicostatus, Panderodus recurvatus, and Pseudooneotodus beckmanni were recovered from the overlying Budd Road Phosphate Bed at the base of the Reynales Limestone near Lockport, New York. The specimens from both beds are indicative of the Pranognathus tenuis Zone, which correlates to the lower to middle Aeronian, and indicate that the Budd Road Phosphate Bed at Lockport was deposited in a more offshore environment than the Densmore Creek Phosphate Bed at Irondequoit.
Stochastic scheduling of single forest firefighting processor
Authors: Kali Abdesselem
Published: December 2015

In forest firefighting, the longer the fires wait, the larger they grow and the longer they take to control. This study concerns the optimal deployment of single forest suppression processor of initial attack in the case of fires ignited simultaneously. The aim is to minimize the total damage caused by the fires to the burnt areas when all fires are suppressed. In Rachaniotis and Pappis (Can. J. For. Res. 36: 652–658, 2006), they use the concept of start-time dependent job processing times for modelling the time needed for fire suppression. The model is intricate but interesting in the sense that is based on theoretical and empirical research in the field of forest firefighting. As a continuation, a stochastic formulation that includes unpredicted parameters in the proposed model is considered and the “dynamic allocation index” rule is used to solve the problem. The optimality of this rule and its effectiveness are proven. Experimental results depict the framework, and inside it, the forest suppression processor achieves greater efficiency.
2016 SIGCSE elections
Authors: McCauley Renée , Rodger Susan
Published: December 2015

Every three years, SIGCSE holds elections for all officer positions on the SIGCSE Board. The elected positions are Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and three At-Large board members. In addition, the current Chair will hold the position of Immediate Past Chair. To hold a board position, one must be a professional member of both ACM and SIGCSE.
Fuzzy ethics
Authors: Heron Michael James , Belford Pauline
Published: December 2015

The recent death of a Volkswagen worker at the hand of a factory robot has resulted in a number of editorials and opinion pieces discussing moral responsibility and robots. In this short response piece we outline some of the wider context of this discussion, with reference to the classic ethical study the Case of the Killer Robot. We argue that there is a growing need for the field of computer ethics to consider with some urgency what it means to be a responsible moral agent when tragic events occur, and to what extent it makes sense to 'blame the robot'.
The shallows
Authors: Surratt Walt
Published: December 2015

Each year, Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) chooses a book to read as a whole campus, called The Common Read. In 2014-2015 the book chosen was "The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains" by Nicholas Carr. Three professors wrote a response that was then read aloud and discussed at a lunch presentation on campus. The questions the responders were asked included: How do we use the internet and related technology well? How do we opt out of cultural changes that aren't life giving? How do we retain the ability to read and engage the 'long-form' book? What does academic excellence mean in an age of The Shallows?
The shallows
Authors: Holsopple Jerry
Published: December 2015

Each year, Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) chooses a book to read as a whole campus, called The Common Read. In 2014-2015 the book chosen was "The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains." Three professors wrote a response that was then read aloud and discussed at a lunch presentation on campus. The questions the responders were asked included: How do we use the internet and related technology well? How do we opt out of cultural changes that aren't life giving? How do we retain the ability to read and engage the 'long-form' book? What does academic excellence mean in an age of The Shallows?
The Layers of Plant Responses to Insect Herbivores
Authors: Schuman Meredith C. , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: December 2015

Plants collectively produce hundreds of thousands of specialized metabolites that are not required for growth or development. Each species has a qualitatively unique profile, with variation among individuals, growth stages, and tissues. By the 1950s, entomologists began to recognize the supreme importance of these metabolites in shaping insect herbivore communities. Plant defense theories arose to address observed patterns of variation, but provided few testable hypotheses because they did not distinguish clearly among proximate and ultimate causes. Molecular plant-insect interaction research has since revealed the sophistication of plant metabolic, developmental, and signaling networks. This understanding at the molecular level, rather than theoretical predictions, has driven the development of new hypotheses and tools and pushed the field forward. We reflect on the utility of the functional perspective provided by the optimal defense theory, and propose a conceptual model of plant defense as a series of layers each at a different level of analysis, illustrated by advances in the molecular ecology of plant-insect interactions.
Steady-State Analysis and Comparison of Control Strategies for PMSM
Authors: Agrawal Jyoti , Bodkhe Sanjay
Published: December 2015

Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) has been considered as the best choice for numerous applications. To make PMSM a high performance drive, effective control system is required. Vector control is accepted widely due to its decoupling effect but it is not the only performance requirement. Additional control methods such as constant torque angle control (CTAC), optimum torque per ampere control (OTPAC), unity power factor control (UPFC), constant mutual flux linkages control (CMFLC), and angle control of air gap flux and current phasor (ACAGF) can also be implemented. This paper therefore presents some important control strategies for PMSM along with merits and limitations which provide a wide variety of control choices in many applications. The performance characteristics for each strategy under steady state are modelled and simulated in MATLAB environment. Based on the simulation results, a conclusion is drawn that OTPAC is superior in normalized torque per unit normalized stator current (Ten/isn) ratio whereas UPFC yields very lowTen/isnratio. In addition, performances of these control strategies are compared, which is a key to select optimum strategy depending on requirements. Based on the comparative study, it can be concluded that CMFLC is superior to CTAC, ACAGF, OTPAC, and UPFC. Hence, it can be a good control strategy to consider.
Digoxin Use to Control Ventricular Rate in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure Is Not Associated with Increased Mortality
Authors: Chamaria Surbhi , Desai Anand M. , Reddy Pratap C. , Olshansky Brian , Dominic Paari
Published: December 2015

Introduction.Digoxin is used to control ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation (AF). There is conflicting evidence regarding safety of digoxin. We aimed to evaluate the risk of mortality with digoxin use in patients with AF using meta-analyses.Methods.PubMed was searched for studies comparing outcomes of patients with AF taking digoxin versus no digoxin, with or without heart failure (HF). Studies were excluded if they reported only a point estimate of mortality, duplicated patient populations, and/or did not report adjusted hazard ratios (HR). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Adjusted HRs were combined using generic inverse variance and log hazard ratios. A multivariate metaregression model was used to explore heterogeneity in studies.Results.Twelve studies with 321,944 patients were included in the meta-analysis. In all AF patients, irrespective of heart failure status, digoxin is associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR [1.23], 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–1.31). However, digoxin is not associated with increased mortality in patients with AF and HF (HR [1.08], 95% CI 0.99–1.18). In AF patients without HF digoxin is associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR [1.38], 95% CI 1.12–1.71).Conclusion.In patients with AF and HF, digoxin use is not associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality when used for rate control.
Downregulation of S100 Calcium Binding Protein A9 in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Pawar Harsh , Srikanth Srinivas M. , Kashyap Manoj Kumar , Sathe Gajanan , Chavan Sandip , Singal Mukul , Manju H. C. , Kumar Kariyanakatte Veeraiah Veerendra , Vijayakumar M. , Sirdeshmukh Ravi , Pandey Akhilesh , Prasad T. S. Keshava , Gowda Harsha , Kumar Rekha V.
Published: December 2015

The development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is poorly understood and the major regulatory molecules involved in the process of tumorigenesis have not yet been identified. We had previously employed a quantitative proteomic approach to identify differentially expressed proteins in ESCC tumors. A total of 238 differentially expressed proteins were identified in that study including S100 calcium binding protein A9 (S100A9) as one of the major downregulated proteins. In the present study, we carried out immunohistochemical validation of S100A9 in a large cohort of ESCC patients to determine the expression and subcellular localization of S100A9 in tumors and adjacent normal esophageal epithelia. Downregulation of S100A9 was observed in 67% (n = 192) of 288 different ESCC tumors, with the most dramatic downregulation observed in the poorly differentiated tumors (99/111). Expression of S100A9 was restricted to the prickle and functional layers of normal esophageal mucosa and localized predominantly in the cytoplasm and nucleus whereas virtually no expression was observed in the tumor and stromal cells. This suggests the important role that S100A9 plays in maintaining the differentiated state of epithelium and suggests that its downregulation may be associated with increased susceptibility to tumor formation.
Severe Relapsing Clozapine-Withdrawal Catatonia
Authors: Shahrour Tarek , Siddiq Muez , Ghalib Saad , Alsaadi Taoufik
Published: December 2015

Catatonia as a clozapine-withdrawal syndrome has only been documented in the medical literature as case reports. We are reporting a case in which a 32-year-old man develops a catatonic state upon withdrawal of clozapine. The state was quite severe and needed ICU admission. The course was chronic and intermittent which we think was caused by the poor adherence to antipsychotics. The importance of identifying such cases early is underlined.
The Preventive Effect on Ethanol-Induced Gastric Lesions of the Medicinal PlantPlumeria rubra: Involvement of the Latex Proteins in the NO/cGMP/KATPSignaling Pathway
Authors: Alencar Nylane Maria Nunes de , Pinheiro Rachel Sindeaux Paiva , Figueiredo Ingrid Samantha Tavares de , Luz Patrícia Bastos , Freitas Lyara Barbosa Nogueira , Souza Tamiris de Fátima Goebel de , Carmo Luana David do , Marques Larisse Mota , Ramos Marcio Viana
Published: December 2015

Plumeria rubra(Apocynaceae) is frequently used in folk medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, hepatitis, and tracheitis, among other infirmities. The aim of this study was to investigate the gastroprotective potential of a protein fraction isolated from the latex ofPlumeria rubra(PrLP) against ethanol-induced gastric lesions and describe the underlying mechanisms. In a dose-dependent manner, the pretreatment with PrLP prevented ethanol-induced gastric lesions in mice after single intravenous administration. The gastroprotective mechanism of PrLP was associated with the involvement of prostaglandins and balance of oxidant/antioxidant factors. Secondarily, the NO/cGMP/KATPpathway and activation of capsaicin-sensitive primary afferents were also demonstrated as part of the mechanism. This study shows that proteins extracted from the latex ofP.rubraprevent gastric lesions induced in experimental animals. Also, the results support the use of the plant in folk medicine.
Saliency Mapping Enhanced by Structure Tensor
Authors: He Zhiyong , Chen Xin , Sun Lining
Published: December 2015

We propose a novel efficient algorithm for computing visual saliency, which is based on the computation architecture of Itti model. As one of well-known bottom-up visual saliency models, Itti method evaluates three low-level features, color, intensity, and orientation, and then generates multiscale activation maps. Finally, a saliency map is aggregated with multiscale fusion. In our method, the orientation feature is replaced by edge and corner features extracted by a linear structure tensor. Following it, these features are used to generate contour activation map, and then all activation maps are directly combined into a saliency map. Compared to Itti method, our method is more computationally efficient because structure tensor is more computationally efficient than Gabor filter that is used to compute the orientation feature and our aggregation is a direct method instead of the multiscale operator. Experiments on Bruce’s dataset show that our method is a strong contender for the state of the art.
Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patient with Crohn’s Disease: Incidental or Expected Outcome of Azathioprine?
Authors: Botros Youssef , Mathews Mary , Patel Hiren , Shah Nihar , Baddoura Walid , de la Torre Andrew
Published: December 2015

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually occurs in patients with underlying risk factors such as liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis B. Although patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) are at an increased risk to develop malignancies such as colon cancer, the incidence of HCC in this population is extremely rare. We report a case of 62-year-old male with long history of CD treated with azathioprine (AZA) and aminosalicylic acid (ASA) who was incidentally diagnosed with HCC, for which left hepatectomy was done. Four years later during routine follow-up, patient had another hepatic lesion and underwent resection of the mass. The mechanism of occurrence of HCC in patient with CD is still controversial and may include immune mediated changes and medication related complications. AZA was reported in all case reports of CD that developed HCC. Through this report we hope to explore the complex pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to the development of HCC in the Crohn’s disease patient population.
Association of aBACE1Gene Polymorphism with Parkinson’s Disease in a Norwegian Population
Authors: Lange Johannes , Lunde Kristin Aaser , Sletten Camilla , Møller Simon Geir , Tysnes Ole-Bjørn , Alves Guido , Larsen Jan Petter , Maple-Grødem Jodi
Published: December 2015

Background. Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) share pathological features, including amyloid-beta pathology. Amyloid-beta peptide is generated by sequential proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein (APP), and genetic variations in the processing pathway genes have been found to increase the risk of AD; however, the contribution in PD is unknown.Methods. The aim of this study was to investigate whether candidate polymorphisms in five genes (ADAM10,BACE1,BACE2,PSEN2, andCLU) involved in the APP processing pathway affect PD risk in a population-based cohort of patients with incident PD and control subjects from the Norwegian ParkWest study.Results. We found an association of rs638405 inBACE1with increased risk of PD, thus providing a novel link, at the genetic level, between amyloid-beta pathology and PD.
Structural Optimization of a Wearable Deep Body Thermometer: From Theoretical Simulation to Experimental Verification
Authors: Huang Ming , Tamura Toshiyo , Tang Zunyi , Chen Wenxi , Kanaya Shigehiko
Published: December 2015

Deep body temperature (DBT) has yet to be measured continuously in everyday life, even though it is useful in physiological monitoring and chronobiology studies. We tried to address this issue by developing a transcutaneous thermometer based on the dual-heat-flux method (DHFM) invoking the principle of heat transfer, for which measurement error was mitigated by elaborate design. First, a structural modification based on the original design of the DHFM was implemented by the finite element method. Based on the results of the simulations, prototypes were then implemented and tested with an experimental system that mimicked the thermometer being applied to skin. The simulation phase proposed the adoption of an aluminum cover to boost measurement accuracy and suggested that thermometers of different height be chosen according to specified requirements. The results of the mock-up experiments support the modification put forward in the simulation phase: the standard type (15 mm in height) achieved the accuracy with error below 0.3°C while the thin type (9 mm in height) attained accuracy with error less than 0.5°C under normal ambient temperature ranging from 20 to 30°C. Even though the design should also be examinedin vivo, it is believed that this study is an important step in developing a practical noninvasive deep body thermometer.
The Effectiveness of Multiple Electrode Radiofrequency Ablation in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Lesions More than 3 cm in Size and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Stage A to B2
Authors: Lin Chen-Chun , Cheng Ya-Ting , Chen M Wei-Ting , Lin Shi-Ming
Published: December 2015

Outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) lesions >3.0 cm in size including Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage B after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with a single electrode remain unsatisfactory. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of RFA with multiple electrodes (ME-RFA) for HCC tumors 3.1-7.0 cm in size and BCLC stage B. This retrospective study included 70 consecutive patients with 58 medium- (3.1-5.0 cm) and 17 large- (5.1-7.0 cm) sized HCCs after ME-RFA using a controller. Outcomes in terms of complete response, primary technique effectiveness, local tumor progression, and overall survival were investigated. After 1-4 applications of ME-RFA, the rates of complete response and PTE in medium-sized tumors were 79.3% and 91.4%, respectively, and in large tumors were 76.5% and 94.1%, respectively. Overall, the major complication rate was 5.7%. After a median 21-month follow-up period, both two- and three-year estimated overall survival rates were above 80%. There were no significant differences in overall survival and local tumor progression rates between medium- and large-size tumors and among BCLC stages A, B1 and B2. A complete response to ME-RFA was the only significant factor associated with improved survival (p=0.008). In conclusion, ME-RFA can effectively treat 3.1-7.0-cm sized HCCs with a comparable outcome between medium- and large-size tumors and among BCLA stages A to B2.
Carcinoid Heart Disease without Severe Tricuspid Valve Involvement
Authors: Killu Ammar M. , Newman Darrell B. , Miranda William R. , Maleszewski Joseph J. , Pellikka Patricia , Schaff Hartzell V. , Connolly Heidi M.
Published: December 2015

Carcinoid syndrome causes a rare form of acquired valvular heart disease which typically occurs in the setting of liver metastases. In carcinoid-induced valvular heart disease, the tricuspid valve is almost universally affected; left-sided valve disease occurs infrequently in affected patients. Herein, we report 2 cases of carcinoid-induced valvular heart disease; one case had no evidence of tricuspid valve involvement despite severe involvement of all other valves, while the other case was without severe tricuspid valve involvement.
The Heavens and Hells We Believe In
Authors: Wrocławska-Warchala Emilia , Warchala Michał
Published: December 2015

Individual eschatological images are rarely a research subject that applies in-depth interviews and qualitative methods of analysis. Due to the use of simple questionnaire measures, knowledge about possible variations in personal images of heaven or hell is very poor. Furthermore, data concerning any connection between personality and eschatological images is scarce. The research project presented in the article was an attempt to apply a narrative method and to combine qualitative and simple quantitative methods to describe the wide variety of individual views of heaven, hell, and purgatory. The relationship between individual eschatological images, denominational culture, and the chosen dimension of personality—i.e., hope understood in Erik Erikson's terms as a relatively stable conviction that the world is meaningful, ordered and friendly towards people—was also explored. The research was conducted among religiously engaged Christians from two denominational groups: Catholics and Lutherans.
Perceiving the Problem of Disenchantment
Authors: Taves Ann
Published: December 2015

In light of the framing of Asprem’s book in terms of Problemgeschichte, we can ask what is meant by a “problem.” Problems, as he uses it, are grounded in human experience, which means that for problems to be problems people have to perceive them as such. The problem of disenchantment thus entails both (1) the perception of the problem and (2) various responses to the problem. Asprem focuses primarily on the way people responded to the problem. But we can also ask how, when, and why people perceived the problem in the first place. If recognizing a problem can be construed in terms of “event perception” then we can view Problemgeschichte as involving the perception of problems at a whole range of levels from our perception of the historical past, our personal past, and what just happened, thus allowing for a fuller integration between sociology and psychology.
The Disenchantment of Problems: Musings on a Cognitive Turn in Intellectual History
Authors: Asprem Egil
Published: December 2015

This article responds to Hans Kippenberg's, Willem Drees's, and Ann Taves's commentaries on my book, The Problem of Disenchantment. It presents an overview of the key arguments of the book, clarifies its use of Problemgeschichte to reconceptualize Weber's notion of disenchantment, and discusses issues in the history and philosophy of science and religion. Finally, it elaborates on the use of recent cognitive theory in intellectual history. In particular, it argues that work in event cognition can help us reframe Weber's interpretive sociology and deepen the principle of methodological individualism. This helps us get a better view of what the ‘problems’ of Problemgeschichte really are, how they emerge, and why some of them may reach broader significance.
Sociology, Protestant Theology, and the Concept of Modern Religion: William Robertson Smith and the ‘Scientification’ of Religion
Authors: Jung Dietrich
Published: December 2015

This article looks at the intersection between Protestant theology and sociology in the construction of the modern concept of religion. Set against the theoretical background of the functional differentiation of modern society, it identifies the origin of this concept in the discursive ‘scientification’ of religion by the emerging disciplines of the humanities and social sciences. In taking the life and work of William Robertson Smith (1846–94) as an example, the article analyzes the transformation of some specific elements of liberal Protestant theology into a set of universal features that came to represent religion as a modern concept. In this way, it argues against confusing the modern concept of religion with a ‘Christian model’ as such, and also against rejecting the concept as a mere ideological tool of secularist ideologies.
New species and new records of freshwater Heterolepidoderma (Gastrotricha: Chaetonotidae) from Brazil with an identification key to the genus
Authors: GARRAFFONI ANDRÉ R. S. , MELCHIOR MARINA P.
Published: December 2015

A new species of freshwater Heterolepidoderma (Gastrotricha) was found in Brazil. Heterolepidoderma mariae sp. nov. is unique in possessing a three-lobed head, three types of dorsal keeled scales, a thin band of cilia on the head, connecting the two bands of ventral cilia, and an interciliary area with elliptical keeled scales with short spines. Heterolepidoderma famaillense Grosso & Drahg, 1991 is reported for the first time outside the type locality in Argentina, and we make some initial remarks on H. aff. majus Remane, 1927, a possible undescribed species. A dichotomous key for all freshwater species of Heterolepidoderma , with distributional data, is also provided.
Dynamical Downscaling of ERA-Interim Temperature and Precipitation for Alaska
Authors: Bieniek Peter A. , Bhatt Uma S. , Walsh John E. , Rupp T. Scott , Zhang Jing , Krieger Jeremy R. , Lader Rick
Published: December 2015

The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts interim reanalysis (ERA-Interim) has been downscaled using a regional model covering Alaska at 20-km spatial and hourly temporal resolution for 1979–2013. Stakeholders can utilize these enhanced-resolution data to investigate climate- and weather-related phenomena in Alaska. Temperature and precipitation are analyzed and compared among ERA-Interim, WRF Model downscaling, and in situ observations. Relative to ERA-Interim, the downscaling is shown to improve the spatial representation of temperature and precipitation around Alaska’s complex terrain. Improvements include increased winter and decreased summer higher-elevation downscaled seasonal average temperatures. Precipitation is also enhanced over higher elevations in all seasons relative to the reanalysis. These spatial distributions of temperature and precipitation are consistent with the few available gridded observational datasets that account for topography. The downscaled precipitation generally exceeds observationally derived estimates in all seasons over mainland Alaska, and it is less than observations in the southeast. Temperature biases tended to be more mixed, and the downscaling reduces absolute bias at higher elevations, especially in winter. Careful selection of data for local site analysis from the downscaling can help to reduce these biases, especially those due to inconsistencies in elevation. Improved meteorological station coverage at higher elevations will be necessary to better evaluate gridded downscaled products in Alaska because biases vary and may even change sign with elevation.
Assimilation of Infrared Radiance Observations with Sensitivity to Land Surfaces in the Canadian Ensemble–Variational System
Authors: Dutta S. K. , Garand L. , Heilliette S.
Published: December 2015

This study highlights recent progress at the Canadian Meteorological Centre in the assimilation of Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) and Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) radiance observations that are sensitive to land surfaces. The assimilation is carried out using the Canadian global ensemble–variational system. That system benefits from flow-dependent background-error statistics that include covariances between surface skin temperature and atmospheric variables. Up to 142 channels from both AIRS and IASI are assimilated. A detailed database of spectral surface emissivity is used. Forecasts are evaluated against ERA-Interim analyses, own-cycle analyses, and radiosonde observations. A conservative approach is taken, with restrictive conditions on topography and surface emissivity. From 2-month assimilation experiments, a significant positive impact is obtained in the Northern Hemisphere extratropics beyond day 2 from the surface to the upper troposphere. The impact is mixed in other regions, depending on level or forecast lead time. Causes for these mixed results are examined in view of future experiments and eventual operational implementation.
Comparison of Simulated Polarimetric Signatures in Idealized Supercell Storms Using Two-Moment Bulk Microphysics Schemes in WRF
Authors: Johnson Marcus , Jung Youngsun , Dawson Daniel T. , Xue Ming
Published: December 2015

Microphysics parameterization becomes increasingly important as the model grid spacing increases toward convection-resolving scales. The performance of several partially or fully two-moment (2M) schemes within the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, version 3.5.1, chosen because of their well-documented advantages over one-moment (1M) schemes, is evaluated with respect to their ability in producing the well-known polarimetric radar signatures found within supercell storms. Such signatures include the ZDR and KDP columns, the ZDR arc, the midlevel ZDR and ρHV rings, the hail signature in the forward-flank downdraft, and the KDP foot. Polarimetric variables are computed from WRF Model output using a polarimetric radar simulator. It is found that microphysics schemes with a 1M rimed-ice category are unable to simulate the ZDR arc, despite containing a 2M rain category. It is also found that a hail-like rimed-ice category (in addition to graupel) may be necessary to reproduce the observed hail signature. For the microphysics schemes that only contain a graupel-like rimed-ice category, only very wet graupel particles are able to reach the lowest model level, which did not adequately reduce ZDR in this signature. The most realistic signatures overall are found with microphysics schemes that are fully 2M with a separate hail category.
The Impact of Employment and Self-Rated Economic Condition on the Subjective Well-Being of Older Korean Immigrants
Authors: Kim Bum Jung , Lee Yura , Sangalang Cindy , Harris Lesley M.
Published: December 2015

Extensive research has demonstrated a relationship between socioeconomic factors and health among older adults, yet fewer studies have explored this relationship with older immigrants. This study aims to examine the influence of employment and self-rated economic condition on the subjective well-being of older Korean immigrants in the United States. Data were drawn from a cross-sectional study of 205 older Korean immigrants, aged 65 to 90, in Los Angeles County. Hierarchical regression was employed to explore the independent and interactive effects of employment status and self-rated economic condition. The study found that employment and self-rated economic status were positively associated with subjective well-being. Also, the interaction between employment and self-rated economic status was significantly associated with higher levels of subjective well-being, such that the influence of self-rated economic condition was stronger for unemployed older Korean immigrants compared with those who were employed. This population-based study provides empirical evidence that employment and self-rated economic condition are directly associated with subjective well-being for older Korean immigrants.
Examining the Impact of Maternal Health, Race, and Socioeconomic Status on Daughter’s Self-Rated Health Over Three Decades
Authors: Shippee Tetyana P. , Rowan Kathleen , Sivagnanam Kamesh , Oakes J. Michael
Published: December 2015

This study examines the role of mother’s health and socioeconomic status on daughter’s self-rated health using data spanning three decades from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Mature Women and Young Women ( N = 1,848 matched mother–daughter pairs; 1,201 White and 647 African American). Using nested growth curve models, we investigated whether mother’s self-rated health affected the daughter’s self-rated health and whether socioeconomic status mediated this relationship . Mother’s health significantly influenced daughters’ self-rated health, but the findings were mediated by mother’s socioeconomic status. African American daughters reported lower self-rated health and experienced more decline over time compared with White daughters, accounting for mother’s and daughter’s covariates. Our findings reveal maternal health and resources as a significant predictor of daughters’ self-rated health and confirm the role of socioeconomic status and racial disparities over time.
KRAS mutant lung cancer: progress thus far on an elusive therapeutic target
Authors: Bhattacharya Saveri , Socinski Mark A. , Burns Timothy F.
Published: December 2015

The KRAS mutation remains the most common driver mutation in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and confers a poor prognosis. Thus far, efforts to target this mutation over the last two decades have been unsuccessful. Over the past 5 years, many efforts to develop drugs that target the RAS‐RAF‐MEK‐ERK (MAPK) pathway have resulted in enhanced understanding of the KRAS mutant NSCLC and have provided optimism that this disease can be targeted.