bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Program Boosting
Authors: Cochran Robert A. , D'Antoni Loris , Livshits Benjamin , Molnar David , Veanes Margus
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we investigate an approach to program synthesis that is based on crowd-sourcing. With the help of crowd-sourcing, we aim to capture the "wisdom of the crowds" to find good if not perfect solutions to inherently tricky programming tasks, which elude even expert developers and lack an easy-to-formalize specification.

We propose an approach we call program boosting, which involves crowd-sourcing imperfect solutions to a difficult programming problem from developers and then blending these programs together in a way that improves their correctness.

We implement this approach in a system called CROWDBOOST and show in our experiments that interesting and highly non-trivial tasks such as writing regular expressions for URLs or email addresses can be effectively crowd-sourced. We demonstrate that carefully blending the crowd-sourced results together consistently produces a boost, yielding results that are better than any of the starting programs. Our experiments on 465 program pairs show consistent boosts in accuracy and demonstrate that program boosting can be performed at a relatively modest monetary cost.
Programming up to Congruence
Authors: Sjöberg Vilhelm , Weirich Stephanie
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the design of Zombie, a dependently-typed programming language that uses an adaptation of a congruence closure algorithm for proof and type inference. This algorithm allows the type checker to automatically use equality assumptions from the context when reasoning about equality. Most dependently-typed languages automatically use equalities that follow from beta-reduction during type checking; however, such reasoning is incompatible with congruence closure. In contrast, Zombie does not use automatic beta-reduction because types may contain potentially diverging terms. Therefore Zombie provides a unique opportunity to explore an alternative definition of equivalence in dependently-typed language design.

Our work includes the specification of the language via a bidirectional type system, which works "up-to-congruence,'' and an algorithm for elaborating expressions in this language to an explicitly typed core language. We prove that our elaboration algorithm is complete with respect to the source type system, and always produces well typed terms in the core language. This algorithm has been implemented in the Zombie language, which includes general recursion, irrelevant arguments, heterogeneous equality and datatypes.
Principal Type Schemes for Gradual Programs
Authors: Garcia Ronald , Cimini Matteo
Published: May 2015

Gradual typing is a discipline for integrating dynamic checking into a static type system. Since its introduction in functional languages, it has been adapted to a variety of type systems, including object-oriented, security, and substructural. This work studies its application to implicitly typed languages based on type inference. Siek and Vachharajani designed a gradual type inference system and algorithm that infers gradual types but still rejects ill-typed static programs. However, the type system requires local reasoning about type substitutions, an imperative inference algorithm, and a subtle correctness statement.

This paper introduces a new approach to gradual type inference, driven by the principle that gradual inference should only produce static types. We present a static implicitly typed language, its gradual counterpart, and a type inference procedure. The gradual system types the same programs as Siek and Vachharajani, but has a modular structure amenable to extension. The language admits let-polymorphism, and its dynamics are defined by translation to the Polymorphic Blame Calculus.

The principal types produced by our initial type system mask the distinction between static parametric polymorphism and polymorphism that can be attributed to gradual typing. To expose this difference, we distinguish static type parameters from gradual type parameters and reinterpret gradual type consistency accordingly. The resulting extension enables programs to be interpreted using either the polymorphic or monomorphic Blame Calculi.
Algebraic Effects, Linearity, and Quantum Programming Languages
Authors: Staton Sam
Published: May 2015

We develop a new framework of algebraic theories with linear parameters, and use it to analyze the equational reasoning principles of quantum computing and quantum programming languages. We use the framework as follows:

we present a new elementary algebraic theory of quantum computation, built from unitary gates and measurement;

we provide a completeness theorem or the elementary algebraic theory by relating it with a model from operator algebra;

we extract an equational theory for a quantum programming language from the algebraic theory;

we compare quantum computation with other local notions of computation by investigating variations on the algebraic theory.
Probabilistic Termination
Authors: Ferrer Fioriti Luis María , Hermanns Holger
Published: May 2015

We propose a framework to prove almost sure termination for probabilistic programs with real valued variables. It is based on ranking supermartingales, a notion analogous to ranking functions on non-probabilistic programs. The framework is proven sound and complete for a meaningful class of programs involving randomization and bounded nondeterminism. We complement this foundational insigh by a practical proof methodology, based on sound conditions that enable compositional reasoning and are amenable to a direct implementation using modern theorem provers. This is integrated in a small dependent type system, to overcome the problem that lexicographic ranking functions fail when combined with randomization. Among others, this compositional methodology enables the verification of probabilistic programs outside the complete class that admits ranking supermartingales.
Symbolic Algorithms for Language Equivalence and Kleene Algebra with Tests
Authors: Pous Damien
Published: May 2015

We propose algorithms for checking language equivalence of finite automata over a large alphabet. We use symbolic automata, where the transition function is compactly represented using (multi-terminal) binary decision diagrams (BDD). The key idea consists in computing a bisimulation by exploring reachable pairs symbolically, so as to avoid redundancies. This idea can be combined with already existing optimisations, and we show in particular a nice integration with the disjoint sets forest data-structure from Hopcroft and Karp's standard algorithm.

Then we consider Kleene algebra with tests (KAT), an algebraic theory that can be used for verification in various domains ranging from compiler optimisation to network programming analysis. This theory is decidable by reduction to language equivalence of automata on guarded strings, a particular kind of automata that have exponentially large alphabets. We propose several methods allowing to construct symbolic automata out of KAT expressions, based either on Brzozowski's derivatives or on standard automata constructions.

All in all, this results in efficient algorithms for deciding equivalence of KAT expressions.
Towards the Essence of Hygiene
Authors: Adams Michael D.
Published: May 2015

Hygiene is an essential aspect of Scheme's macro system that prevents unintended variable capture. However, previous work on hygiene has focused on algorithmic implementation rather than precise, mathematical definition of what constitutes hygiene. This is in stark contrast with lexical scope, alpha-equivalence and capture-avoiding substitution, which also deal with preventing unintended variable capture but have widely applicable and well-understood mathematical definitions.

This paper presents such a precise, mathematical definition of hygiene. It reviews various kinds of hygiene violation and presents examples of how they occur. From these examples, we develop a practical algorithm for hygienic macro expansion. We then present algorithm-independent, mathematical criteria for whether a macro expansion algorithm is hygienic. This characterization corresponds closely to existing hygiene algorithms and sheds light on aspects of hygiene that are usually overlooked in informal definitions.
Coding by Everyone, Every Day
Authors: Lee Peter
Published: May 2015

In recent years, advances in machine learning and related fields have led to significant advances in a range of user-interface technologies, including audio processing, speech recognition, and natural language processing. These advances in turn have enabled speech-based digital assistants and speech-to-speech translation systems to become practical to deploy on a large scale. In essence, machines are becoming capable of hearing what we are saying. But will they understand what we want them to do when we talk to them? What are the prospects for getting useful work done in essence, by synthesizing programs -- through the act of having a conversation with a computer? In this lecture, I will speculate on the central role that programming-language design and program synthesis may have in this possible -- and I will argue, likely -- future of computing, one in which every user writes programs, every day, by conversing with a computing system.
The physiology of perception in human temporal lobe is specialized for contextual novelty
Authors: Miller Kai J. , Hermes Dora , Witthoft Nathan , Rao Rajesh P. N. , Ojemann Jeffrey G.
Published: May 2015

The human ventral temporal cortex has regions that are known to selectively process certain categories of visual inputs; they are specialized for the content (“faces,” “places,” “tools”) and not the form (“line,” “patch”) of the image being seen. In our study, human patients with implanted electrocorticography (ECoG) electrode arrays were shown sequences of simple face and house pictures. We quantified neuronal population activity, finding robust face-selective sites on the fusiform gyrus and house-selective sites on the lingual/parahippocampal gyri. The magnitude and timing of single trials were compared between novel (“house-face”) and repeated (“face-face”) stimulus-type responses. More than half of the category-selective sites showed significantly greater total activity for novel stimulus class. Approximately half of the face-selective sites (and none of the house-selective sites) showed significantly faster latency to peak (∼50 ms) for novel stimulus class. This establishes subregions within category-selective areas that are differentially tuned to novelty in sequential context, where novel stimuli are processed faster in some regions, and with increased activity in others.
Age-related changes of auditory brainstem responses in nonhuman primates
Authors: Ng Chi-Wing , Navarro Xochi , Engle James R. , Recanzone Gregg H.
Published: May 2015

Nonhuman primates, compared with humans and rodents, have historically been far less used for studies of age-related hearing loss, primarily because of their long life span and high cost of maintenance. Strong similarities in genetics, anatomy, and neurophysiology of the auditory nervous system between humans and monkeys, however, could provide fruitful opportunities to enhance our understanding of hearing loss. The present study used a common, noninvasive technique for testing hearing sensitivity in humans, the auditory brainstem response (ABR), to assess the hearing of 48 rhesus macaques from 6 to 35 yr of age to clicks and tone stimuli between 0.5 and 16.0 kHz. Old monkeys, particularly those above 21.5 yr of age, had missing ABR waveforms at high frequencies. Regression analyses revealed that ABR threshold increased as a function of age at peaks II and IV simultaneously. In the suprathreshold hearing condition (70 dB peak sound pressure level), ABR-based audiograms similarly varied as a function of age such that old monkeys had smaller peak amplitudes and delayed latencies at low, middle, and high frequencies. Peripheral hearing differences remained a major influence associated with age-related changes in audiometric functions of old monkeys at a comparable sensation level across animals. The present findings suggest that hearing loss occurs in old monkeys across a wide range of frequencies and that these deficits increase in severity with age. Parallel to prior studies in monkeys, we found weak effects of sex on hearing, and future investigations are necessary to clarify its role in age-related hearing loss.
Near Surface Stoichiometry in UO2: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Yu Jianguo , Valderrama Billy , Henderson Hunter B. , Manuel Michele V. , Allen Todd
Published: May 2015

The mechanisms of oxygen stoichiometry variation in UO2at different temperature and oxygen partial pressure are important for understanding the dynamics of microstructure in these crystals. However, very limited experimental studies have been performed to understand the atomic structure of UO2near surface and defect effects of near surface on stoichiometry in which the system can exchange atoms with the external reservoir. In this study, the near (110) surface relaxation and stoichiometry in UO2have been studied with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. On the basis of the point-defect model (PDM), a general expression for the near surface stoichiometric variation is derived by using DFT total-energy calculations and atomistic thermodynamics, in an attempt to pin down the mechanisms of oxygen exchange between the gas environment and defected UO2. By using the derived expression, it is observed that, under poor oxygen conditions, the stoichiometry of near surface is switched from hyperstoichiometric at 300 K with a depth around 3 nm to near-stoichiometric at 1000 K and hypostoichiometric at 2000 K. Furthermore, at very poor oxygen concentrations and high temperatures, our results also suggest that the bulk of the UO2prefers to be hypostoichiometric, although the surface is near-stoichiometric.
Jingtong Granule: A Chinese Patent Medicine for Cervical Radiculopathy
Authors: Zhu Liguo , Gao Jinghua , Yu Jie , Feng Minshan , Li Jinyu , Wang Shangquan , Wei Xu
Published: May 2015

Objective. This paper systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of Jingtong granule (JG) for cervical radiculopathy (CR).Methods. Randomized controlled trials comparing JG with no intervention, placebo, or conventional therapies were retrieved. The trials testing JG combined with conventional therapies versus conventional therapies were also enrolled. Study selection, methodological assessment, data extraction, and analysis were conducted in accordance with the Cochrane standards. The strength of evidence was evaluated according to GRADE approach.Results. Three trials with 400 participants were included. Methodological quality was evaluated as generally low. One study found that JG showed significant difference on decreasing pain scores compared with placebo. Meta-analysis indicated that JG plus conventional analgesic exhibited a significant immediate effect on the pain scores (WMD = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.29 to 1.98;P<0.00001). Additionally, JG combined with analgesic presented beneficial immediate effect on neck disability index. However, the treatment effects of JG demonstrated in the trials were not large, and the safety of JG was unproven. Finally the evidence level was evaluated to be low.Conclusions. Our results indicated that JG showed some potential benefits for CR. Nevertheless, treatment effects are uncertain due to both the methodological concerns and the very modest reported improvements.
Octanoate in Human Albumin Preparations Is Detrimental to Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Culture
Authors: Wong Way-Wua , MacKenzie Andrew D. , Nelson Vicky J. , Faed James M. , Turner Paul R.
Published: May 2015

Cell therapies hold great promise as the next major advance in medical treatment. To enable safe, effectiveex vivoculture whilst maintaining cell phenotype, growth media constituents must be carefully controlled. We have used a chemically defined mesenchymal stromal cell culture medium to investigate the influence of different preparations of human serum albumin. We examined two aspects of cell culture, growth rate as measured by population doubling time and colony forming ability which is a representative measure of the stemness of the cell population. Albumin preparations showed comparative differences in both of these criteria. Analysis of the albumin bound fatty acids also showed differences depending on the manufacturing procedure used. We demonstrated that octanoate, an additive used to stabilize albumin during pasteurization, slows growth and lowers colony forming ability duringex vivoculture. Further to this we also found the level of Na+/K+ATPase, a membrane bound cation pump inhibited by octanoate, is increased in cells exposed to this compound. We conclude that the inclusion of human serum albumin inex vivogrowth media requires careful consideration of not only the source of albumin, but also the associated molecular cargo, for optimal cell growth and behavior.
Site-Specific Immunomodulator: A Novel Treatment for Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Bressler Brian , Bethel Kevin P. , Kleef Ralf , Reynolds Sophie L. , Sutcliffe Simon , Mullins David W. , Gunn Hal
Published: May 2015

We investigated the mechanism of action, safety, and efficacy of the Site-Specific Immunomodulator (SSI) QBECO, a novel immunotherapy for Crohn’s disease (CD). Using human monocytic THP-1 cells, we demonstrate that SSI QBECO (derived from the common colon bacteriaE. coli) activates macrophages to an M1 phenotype (associated with enhanced capacity to eliminate bacteria and activate innate immune responses). We assessed SSI QBECO in a compassionate use protocol of ten adult patients with active CD. Patients with moderate to severe clinical symptoms receiving conventional CD treatments and/or complementary therapies were included, except patients receiving anti-TNF medications. SSI QBECO was self-administered subcutaneously every second day, for a minimum of 2.5 months and a maximum of 11 months. All 10 patients reported improvement of symptoms while on the SSI QBECO treatment. Seven patients reported full resolution of clinical symptoms during a course of SSI QBECO of at least three months. Three patients have experienced ongoing sustained clinical remission after discontinuing all medications, including SSI treatment. The longest case of clinical remission is still ongoing (>4 years). No serious severe adverse clinical events were reported. Collectively, we conclude that treatment with the immunoactive SSI QBECO was well tolerated and effective for treatment of Crohn’s disease in this case series.
Comparison of Lyophilized Glutaraldehyde-Preserved Bovine Pericardium with Different Vascular Prostheses for Use as Vocal Cords Implants: Experimental Study
Authors: Olmos-Zuñiga J. Raúl , Jasso-Victoria Rogelio , Gaxiola-Gaxiola Miguel , Sotres-Vega Avelina , Hernández-Jiménez Claudia , Baltazares-Lipp Matilde , Arredondo del Bosque Fernando , Santillan-Doherty Patricio
Published: May 2015

This study compared the use of lyophilized glutaraldehyde-preserved bovine pericardium (LGPBP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and Teflon felt (TF) as implants for vocal cords (VC) medialization and aimed to assess the endoscopic, macroscopic, and microscopic VC changes after medialization in a canine model. In 18 mongrel dogs, the right VC were medialized with LGPBP and the left were implanted as follows: Group I (n=6): LGPBP and PTFE; Group II (n=6): LGPBP and PET; Group III (n=6): LGPBP and TF. Surgical handling of the implants was compared. Three months after surgery, macroscopic and microscopic changes of VC and implants were evaluated. LGPBP offered the best surgical handling (p=0.005, Kruskal-Wallis). TF implants showed extrusion (p=0.005, Kruskal-Wallis) and severe inflammation. All VC formed fibrous capsules around the implants; the ones developed by LGPBP implants were thinner (p=0.001, ANOVA, Tukey). VC implanted with synthetic materials showed eosinophilic infiltration (p=0.01, Kruskal-Wallis). We concluded that the LGPBP could be used as an implant for VC medialization because it is biocompatible, easy to handle and remove during surgical procedures, and nonabsorbable or extrudable and produces an inflammatory reaction similar to PTFE and PET.
Aortopulmonary Fistula after Multiple Pulmonary Artery Stenting and Dilatation for Postarterial Switch Supravalvular Stenosis
Authors: Pagé Maude , Nastase Oana , Maes Frédéric , Kefer Joëlle , Sluysmans Thierry , Poncelet Alain , Rubay Jean , Pasquet Agnès
Published: May 2015

We present a case of iatrogenic aortopulmonary fistula following pulmonary artery (PA) stenting late after arterial switch operation (ASO) for D-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA), an unusual complication that may be encountered more frequently in contemporary adult cardiology clinics. The diagnosis should be sought in the face of unexplained heart failure in patients who underwent ASO and subsequent PA angioplasty. Treatment should be instituted in a timely fashion, and options include surgical correction or implantation of a duct occluder or covered stent.
Asymmetric Velocity Distributions from Halo Density Profiles in the Eddington Approach
Authors: Vergados J. D.
Published: May 2015

We show how to obtain the energy distributionf(E)in our vicinity starting from WIMP density profiles in a self-consistent way by employing the Eddington approach and adding reasonable angular momentum dependent terms in the expression of the energy. We then show how we can obtain the velocity dispersions and the asymmetry parameterβin terms of the parameters describing the angular momentum dependence. From this expression, forf(E), we proceed to construct an axially symmetric WIMP a velocity distribution, which, for a gravitationally bound system, automatically has a velocity upper bound and is characterized by the same asymmetriyβ. This approach is tested and clarified by constructing analytic expressions in a simple model, with adequate structure. We then show how such velocity distributions can be used in determining the event rates, including modulation, in both the standard and the directional WIMP searches.
Globally Declining Population of Women Folk Causing Sex Imbalance Is a Serious Concern: An Analysis of Sex Ratio around the Globe
Authors: Gautam Rajesh K. , Jhariya Jyoti , Kumar Pardeep
Published: May 2015

Successful existence and perpetuation of any species depend on its reproductive success. In case of humans, the theoretical proportion of males and females should be 1 : 1, but this equilibrium was disturbed in many parts of the world. What are the determinants of sex imbalance in human should be found out to combat the problem. The data were gathered for 227 countries. The sex ratio for human population of the world was found 101 males for 100 females, but it varies from 74 to 219 among the countries. The number of countries having higher number of females as compared to males is 132, as they have 99 or less males per 100 females, whereas in 71 countries the total population of males is greater than the females. And only 24 countries have balanced sex ratio. Regression analysis shows that fertility, rate of natural increase, mortality, and gender inequality index have inverse effect, and they account for 24.4%, 23.1%, 18.8%, 18.9%, 16.3%, 16.1%, and 5.1% of variability, respectively. There is great need to identify such countries and region where sex selective abortion is being practiced and to find out appropriate strategies to combat such problem.
The Use of Cannabis as a Predictor of Early Onset of Bipolar Disorder and Suicide Attempts
Authors: Leite Rafaela Torres Portugal , Nogueira Sarah de Oliveira , Nascimento João Paulo Rodrigues do , Lima Laisa Soares de , Nóbrega Taís Bastos da , Virgínio Mariana da Silva , Moreno Lucas Monte da Costa , Sampaio Bruno Henrique Barbosa , Souza Fábio Gomes de Matos e
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Bipolar disorder (BD) implies risk of suicide. The age at onset (AAO) of BD carries prognostic significance. Substance abuse may precede the onset of BD and cannabis is the most common illicit drug used. The main goal of this study is to review the association of cannabis use as a risk factor for early onset of BD and for suicide attempts.Materials and Methods. PubMed database was searched for articles using key words “bipolar disorder,” “suicide attempts,” “cannabis,” “marijuana,” “early age at onset,” and “early onset.”Results. The following percentages in bipolar patients were found: suicide attempts 3.6–42%; suicide attempts and substance use 5–60%; suicide attempts and cannabis use 15–42%. An early AAO was associated with cannabis misuse. The mean age of the first manic episode in individuals with and without BD and cannabis use disorder (CUD) was 19.5 and 25.1 years, respectively. The first depressive episode was at 18.5 and 24.4 years, respectively. Individuals misusing cannabis showed increased risk of suicide.Discussion. Cannabis use is associated with increased risk of suicide attempts and with early AAO. However, the effect of cannabis at the AAO and suicide attempts is not clear.
Nampt/PBEF/Visfatin Upregulation in Colorectal Tumors, Mirrored in Normal Tissue and Whole Blood of Colorectal Cancer Patients, Is Associated with Metastasis, Hypoxia, IL1β, and Anemia
Authors: Neubauer Katarzyna , Bednarz Misa Iwona , Diakowska Dorota , Kapturkiewicz Bartosz , Gamian Andrzej , Krzystek-Korpacka Malgorzata
Published: May 2015

Targeting Nampt/PBEF/visfatin is considered a promising anticancer strategy, yet little is known about its association with colorectal cancer (CRC). We quantified Nampt/PBEF/visfatin expression in bowel and blood (mRNA and protein), referring it to CRC advancement and inflammatory, angiogenic, hypoxia, and proliferation indices. Tumor Nampt/PBEF/visfatin upregulation was associated with metastasis, anemia, tumor location,HIF1α, and inflammatory and angiogenic indices, of whichHIF1α,IL1β, and anemia explained 70% in Nampt/PBEF/visfatin variability. Nampt/PBEF/visfatin expression in nontumor tissue, both mRNA and protein, increased in patients with metastatic disease and mild anemia, and, on transcriptional level, correlated withHIF1α,IL1β,IL8,CCL2, andCCL4expression. Whole blood Nampt/PBEF/visfatin tended to be elevated in patients with metastatic cancer or anemia and correlated with inflammatory indices, of whichIL1β,IL8, and hematocrit explained 60% of its variability. Circulating visfatin was associated with lymph node metastasis and inflammatory and angiogenic indices.In vitroexperiments on SW620 cells demonstrated Nampt/PBEF/visfatin downregulation in response to serum withdrawal but its upregulation in response to serum induction and hypoxia. Stimulation with recombinant visfatin did not provide growth advantage. Summarizing, our results link Nampt/PBEF/visfatin with tumor metastatic potential and point at inflammation and hypoxia as key inducers of its upregulation in CRC.
Surgical Treatment of Peri-Implantitis: A 17-Year Follow-Up Clinical Case Report
Authors: Bassi Fabrizio , Poli Pier Paolo , Rancitelli Davide , Signorino Fabrizio , Maiorana Carlo
Published: May 2015

The purpose of the present case report was to describe the surgical treatment of a peri-implantitis lesion associated with a regenerative approach. A 48-year-old patient came to authors’ attention 36 months after the placement of a dental implant (ITI-Bonefit Straumann, Waldenburg, Switzerland) in position 46. A swelling of the peri-implant soft tissues was observed, associated with bleeding on probing and probing depth > 10 mm. A significant peri-implant bone loss was clearly visible on the periapical radiograph. A nonsurgical periodontal supportive therapy was firstly conducted to reduce the inflammation, followed by the surgical treatment of the defect. After mechanical and chemical decontamination with tetracycline solution, a regenerative approach consisting in the application of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (Bio-Oss, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) and a collagen membrane (Bio-Gide, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) was performed. An antibiotic therapy was associated with the treatment. The 17-year follow-up showed a physiological probing depth with no clinical signs of peri-implant inflammation and bleeding on probing. No further radiographic bone loss was observed. The treatment described in the present case report seemed to show improved clinical results up to a relevant follow-up period.
A Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithm for Energy-Efficient Cooperative Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Sensor Network
Authors: Liu Weirong , Qin Gaorong , Li Shuo , He Jian , Zhang Xiaoyong
Published: May 2015

Cognitive radio has emerged as a promising solution to address the problems posed by coming spectrum scarcity for the inherently resource-constrained sensor networks. Reliability and energy consumption are key objectives for spectrum sensing in cognitive sensor networks. In this paper, a fast differential evolution algorithm is proposed to optimize the energy consumption and spectrum sensing performance jointly. By constructing a comprehensive performance metric, the joint optimization is transferred to a multiobjective optimal problem, in which the sleeping schedule and censoring mechanism are taken into consideration. The main objective of the proposed algorithm is to minimize the network energy consumption subjected to constraints on the detection performance by optimally deriving the censoring and sleeping probabilities. To accelerate the convergence speed and maintain the diversity, the algorithm utilizes the advantages of opposite-based learning for generating the initial population and a tournament scheme in mutation step. In the crossover step, a control parameters dynamic adjustment scheme is applied to make a trade-off between exploration and exploitation. Finally, a selection mechanism is introduced for generating a well-distributed Pareto optimal front. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can reduce the average energy consumption of cognitive sensor node, while improving the global probability of spectrum sensing.
Computer-Guided Implant Surgery in Fresh Extraction Sockets and Immediate Loading of a Full Arch Restoration: A 2-Year Follow-Up Study of 14 Consecutively Treated Patients
Authors: Daas M. , Assaf A. , Dada K. , Makzoumé J.
Published: May 2015

Statement of Problem. Low scientific evidence is identified in the literature for combining implant placement in fresh extraction sockets with immediate function. Moreover, the few studies available on immediate implants in postextraction sites supporting immediate full-arch rehabilitation clearly lack comprehensive protocols.Purpose. The purpose of this study is to report outcomes of a comprehensive protocol using CAD-CAM technology for surgical planning and fabrication of a surgical template and to demonstrate that immediate function can be easily performed with immediate implants in postextraction sites supporting full-arch rehabilitation.Material and Methods. 14 subjects were consecutively rehabilitated (13 maxillae and 1 mandible) with 99 implants supporting full-arch fixed prostheses followed between 6 and 24 months (mean of 16 months). Outcome measures were prosthesis and implant success, biologic and prosthetic complications, pain, oedema evaluation, and radiographic marginal bone levels at surgery and then at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.Results. The overall cumulative implant survival rate at mean follow-up time of 16 months was 97.97%. The average marginal bone loss was 0,9 mm.Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, the results validate this treatment modality for full-arch rehabilitations with predictable outcomes and high survival rate after 2 years.
Autologous Fat Grafting in the Treatment of Painful Postsurgical Scar of the Oral Mucosa
Authors: Lisa Andrea , Summo Valeria , Bandi Valeria , Maione Luca , Murolo Matteo , Klinger Francesco , Klinger Marco
Published: May 2015

Background. Persistent pain as a consequence of surgical treatment has been reported for several common surgical procedures and represents a clinical problem of great magnitude.Material and Methods. We describe the case of a 47-year-old female who presented a retractile scar that adhered to deep planes at the upper right of the vestibule due to surgical removal of maxillary exostosis, which determined important pain symptoms extending till the right shoulder during both chewing and rest. We subsequently treated her with autologous fat grafting according to Coleman’s technique.Results. Clinical assessments were performed at 5 and 14 days, 1, 3, and 6 months, and 1 year after surgical procedure. We observed a progressive release of scar retraction together with an important improvement of pain symptoms.Conclusion. The case described widens the possible application of autologous fat grafting on a new anatomical site as buccal vestibule and in one specific clinical setting confirming its promising biological effects.
Clinicopathological Characteristics of Serrated Polyposis Syndrome in Korea: Single Center Experience
Authors: Kim Hyung-Keun , Seo Kyung-Jin , Choi Hyun Ho , Kim Sung Soo , Chae Hiun-Suk , Shin Ok-Ran , Ahn Chang Hyuck , Cho Young-Seok
Published: May 2015

Background/Aim.Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) is a rare condition characterized by multiple serrated polyps throughout the colon and rectum. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics of SPS in Koreans.Methods.This retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed using information from the endoscopy, clinical records, and pathology database system of Uijeongbu St. Mary’s Hospital. Consecutive patients satisfying the updated 2010 World Health Organization criteria for SPS between June 2011 and May 2014 were enrolled.Results.Of the 17,552 patients who underwent colonoscopies during the study period, 11 (0.06%) met the criteria for SPS. The mean age of these patients was 55.6 years. Ten patients (91%) were males. None had a family history of CRC or a first-degree relative with SPS. Seven patients (64%) had synchronous advanced adenoma. One patient had coexistence of SPS with CRC that was diagnosed at the initial colonoscopy. Five patients (45%) had more than 30 serrated polyps. One of the patients underwent surgery and 10 underwent endoscopic resection.Conclusion.The prevalence of SPS in this study cohort was comparable to that in Western populations. Considering the high risk of CRC, correct diagnosis and careful follow-up for SPS are necessary.
Cytomegalovirus Antibody Elevation in Bipolar Disorder: Relation to Elevated Mood States
Authors: Prossin A. R. , Yolken R. H. , Kamali M. , Heitzeg M. M. , Kaplow J. B. , Coryell W. H. , McInnis M. G.
Published: May 2015

The neurobiology of mood states is complicated by exposure to everyday stressors (e.g., psychosocial, ubiquitous environmental infections like CMV), each fluctuating between latency and reactivation. CMV reactivation induces proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α) associated with induction of neurotoxic metabolites and the presence of mood states in bipolar disorder (BD). Whether CMV reactivation is associated with bipolar diagnoses (trait) or specific mood states is unclear. We investigated 139 BD type I and 99 healthy controls to determine if concentrations of IgG antibodies to Herpesviridae (e.g., CMV, HSV-1, and HSV-2) were associated with BD-I diagnosis and specific mood states. We found higher CMV antibody concentration in BD-I than in healthy controls (T234=3.1,Puncorr=0.002;Pcorr=0.006) but no difference in HSV-1 (P>0.10) or HSV-2 (P>0.10). Compared to euthymic BD-I volunteers, CMV IgG was higher in BD-I volunteers with elevated moods (P<0.03) but not different in depressed moods (P>0.10). While relationships presented between BD-I diagnosis, mood states, and CMV antibodies are encouraging, they are limited by the study’s cross sectional nature. Nevertheless, further testing is warranted to replicate findings and determine whether reactivation of CMV infection exacerbates elevated mood states in BD-I.
Effects of Adjuvant Sorafenib and Sunitinib on Cardiac Function in Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients without Overt Metastases: Results from ASSURE, ECOG 2805
Authors: Haas Naomi B. , Manola Judith , Ky Bonnie , Flaherty Keith T. , Uzzo Robert G. , Kane Christopher J. , Jewett Michael , Wood Lori , Wood Christopher G. , Atkins Michael B. , Dutcher Janice J. , Wilding George , DiPaola Robert S.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: Sunitinib and sorafenib are used widely in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). These agents are associated with a significant incidence of cardiovascular (CV) dysfunction and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) declines, observed largely in the metastatic setting. However, in the adjuvant population, the CV effects of these agents remain unknown. We prospectively defined the incidence of cardiotoxicity among resected, high-risk RCC patients treated with these agents.

Experimental Design: Sunitinib, sorafenib, or placebo was administered for up to 12 months in patients with high-risk, resected RCC. LVEF was measured by multigated acquisition (MUGA) scans at standard intervals. Additional CV adverse events were reported according to NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE).

Results: Among 1,943 patients randomized, 1,599 had at least 1 post-baseline MUGA. Within 6 months, 21 patients (1.3%) experienced a cardiac event, defined as an LVEF decline from baseline that was >15% and below the institutional lower limit of normal. Nine of 513 patients (1.8%) were on sunitinib, 7 of 508 (1.4%) on sorafenib, and 5 of 578 (0.9%) on placebo (P = 0.28 and 0.56 comparing sunitinib and sorafenib to placebo, respectively). With dose interruption or adjustment, 16 of the 21 recovered their LVEF to >50%. The incidence of symptomatic heart failure, arrhythmia, or myocardial ischemia did not differ among groups.

Conclusions: In the adjuvant setting, we prospectively define low incidence of cardiotoxicity with sunitinib and sorafenib. These findings may be related to close CV monitoring, or potentially to fewer CV comorbidities in our nonmetastatic population. Clin Cancer Res; 21(18); 4048–54. ©2015 AACR.
The Allelic Context of the C797S Mutation Acquired upon Treatment with Third-Generation EGFR Inhibitors Impacts Sensitivity to Subsequent Treatment Strategies
Authors: Niederst Matthew J. , Hu Haichuan , Mulvey Hillary E. , Lockerman Elizabeth L. , Garcia Angel R. , Piotrowska Zofia , Sequist Lecia V. , Engelman Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: A secondary EGFR mutation, T790M, is the most common resistance mechanism in EGFR-mutant adenocarcinomas that have progressed on erlotinib. Third-generation EGFR inhibitors capable of inhibiting mutant EGFR with T790M produce responses in nearly two thirds of patients. However, acquired resistance mechanisms in patients treated with these drugs are yet to be described.

Experimental Design: To study acquired resistance to third-generation EGFR inhibitors, T790M-positive cells derived from an erlotinib-resistant cancer were made resistant to a third-generation TKI and then characterized using cell and molecular analyses.

Results: Cells resistant to a third-generation TKI acquired an additional EGFR mutation, C797S, which prevented suppression of EGFR. Our results demonstrate that the allelic context in which C797S was acquired may predict responsiveness to alternative treatments. If the C797S and T790M mutations are in trans, cells will be resistant to third-generation EGFR TKIs, but will be sensitive to a combination of first- and third-generation TKIs. If the mutations are in cis, no EGFR TKIs alone or in combination can suppress activity. If C797S develops in cells wild-type for T790 (when third-generation TKIs are administered in the first-line setting), the cells are resistant to third-generation TKIs, but retain sensitivity to first-generation TKIs.

Conclusions: Mutation of C797S in EGFR is a novel mechanism of acquired resistance to third-generation TKIs. The context in which the C797S develops with respect to the other EGFR alleles affects the efficacy of subsequent treatments. Clin Cancer Res; 21(17); 3924–33. ©2015 AACR.

See related commentary by Ayeni et al., p. 3818
Variants of Base Excision Repair Genes MUTYH, PARP1 and XRCC1 in Alzheimer's Disease Risk
Authors: Kwiatkowski Dominik , Czarny Piotr , Galecki Piotr , Bachurska Agnieszka , Talarowska Monika , Orzechowska Agata , Bobińska Kinga , Bielecka-Kowalska Anna , Pietras Tadeusz , Szemraj Janusz , Maes Michael , Sliwinski Tomasz
Published: May 2015

Background: Many clinical studies have shown that oxidative stress pathways and the efficiency of the oxidative DNA damage base excision repair (BER) system are associated with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Reduced BER efficiency may result from polymorphisms of BER-related genes. In the present study, we examine whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of BER genes are associated with increased risk of AD. Methods: SNP genotyping was carried out on DNA isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from 120 patients with AD and 110 healthy volunteers. Samples were genotyped for the presence of BER-related SNPs, i.e. XRCC1-rs1799782, rs25487; MUTYH-rs3219489, and PARP1-rs1136410. Results: We found a positive association between AD risk and the presence of G/A genotype variant of the XRCC1 rs25487 polymorphism [odds ratio (OR) = 3.762, 95% CI: 1.793-7.891]. The presence of the A/A genotype of this polymorphism reduced the risk of AD (OR = 0.485, 95% CI: 0.271-0.870). In cases of the PARP1 gene rs1136410 polymorphism, we observed that the T/C variant increases (OR = 4.159, 95% CI: 1.978-8.745) while the T/T variant reduces risk (OR = 0.240, 95% CI: 0.114-0.556) of AD. Conclusions: We conclude that BER gene polymorphisms may play an important role in the etiology of AD. Diagnosing the presence or absence of particular genetic variants may be an important marker of AD. Further research on a larger population is needed. There is also a need to examine polymorphisms of other BER in the context of AD risk.
Equol Inhibits LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress and Enhances the Immune Response in Chicken HD11 Macrophages
Authors: Gou Zhongyong , Jiang Shouqun , Zheng Chuntian , Tian Zhimei , Lin Xiajing
Published: May 2015

Background/Aims: There has been increasing recent attention on the antioxidative capacity of equol. This study tested the effect of equol on oxidative stress induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and regulation of immunity in chicken macrophages. Methods: Chicken HD11 macrophages were challenged with LPS (100 ng/mL) alone or with LPS (100 ng/mL) and (±)equol (10, 20, 40, 80, 160 μmol/L) together for 24h. Evaluated responses included the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH), activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), transcript abundance of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), catalase (CAT), glutathione transferase (GST), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and contents of the cytokines TNFα, IL-1β, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon beta (IFNβ). Results: Exposure to LPS induced oxidative stress as contents of MDA increased and GSH decreased in LPS-treated cells (P < 0.05) compared to those in control cells. Compared to LPS alone, co-treatment with equol (20 μmol/L, 40 μmol/L or 80 μmol/L) reduced contents of MDA and increased those of GSH (both P < 0.05). Activity of T-SOD increased (P < 0.05) in cells treated with the higher contentration of equol (80 μmol/L or 160 μmol/L), however, all concentrations (20 μmol/L to 160 μmol/L) increased activity of iNOS (P < 0.05). The highest concentration of equol (160 μmol/L) increased SOD2 and GST transcripts (P < 0.05). Equol treatment increased transcripts of TLR4, TNFα and IL-1β (P < 0.05). And there were similar changes in contents of IL-1β, IL-2, IFNβ and TNFα in the cells (P < 0.05). Conclusions: It concluded that equol can protect chicken HD11 macrophages from oxidative stress induced by LPS through reducing lipid peroxidation products and enhancing contents of antioxidants, and activities of relevant antioxidase enzymes; effects were also seen in gene expression related to the immune response and increased contents of cytokines. The optimal concentration of equol on antioxidation and immune enhancement in chicken macrophages was 40 μmol/L.
OPTICKS and Visual Moonbounce in Live Performance
Authors: de Paulis Daniela
Published: May 2015

OPTICKS is an art project realized by interdisciplinary artist Daniela de Paulis, in collaboration with the CAMRAS radio amateur association based at the Dwingeloo radio telescope in The Netherlands. The project is presented as a live audio-visual performance during which digital images are transmitted as radio signals to the Moon from a radio station in Brazil, the U.K., Switzerland, Poland or Italy. The signals reflected by the Moon’s surface are received by the Dwingeloo radio telescope, converted back into the original images and projected live at an exhibition venue. The project uses Visual Moonbounce, an application of the Moonbounce technology, developed by the artist in collaboration with the CAMRAS team during her residency at the Dwingeloo radio telescope.
Color and Color-Structure
Authors: Gullar Ferreira
Published: May 2015

This text was originally published as part of Ferreira Gullar's 1959–60 serialized history of modern art published in the Sunday supplement of the Jornal do Brasil. Following on the heels of a previous entry that traced the move from the plane to the “non-object” in the recent work of Lygia Clark, Gullar turns his attention here to color as a structuring principle of both space and time in the work of Aloísio Carvão and Hélio Oiticica.
Gender and the Representation of Chinese Intellectual Migration to the United States in China’s Reform and Opening-Up Era中国改革开放年代性别与赴美中国知识分子的跨国流动再现
Authors: Miao Wei
Published: May 2015

This article aims to unravel the gender paradigm in selected televisual, filmic and literary narratives of Chinese intellectual migration to the United States in China’s reform and opening-up era. Three texts have been selected for the way in which they render the experience of migration as a gendered experience, in terms both of the encounter with the alien place and the loss of attachment to home. This article argues that the texts under discussion reveal an emerging gender politics that in some respects departs from that detected by previous commentators across the broader genre of Chinese migration texts.
The Challenges for Chinese Merchants in BotswanaA Middleman Minority Perspective博茨瓦纳华商面临的挑战-从其身为中介少数 派的角度分析
Authors: Zi Yanyin
Published: May 2015

This paper discusses the challenges faced by Chinese merchants when engaging in retail activities in Botswana. The theory of a middleman minority will be used as a theoretical perspective to assess both the challenges and the strategies employed to meet them. The paper argues that Chinese merchants’ self-imposed isolation (combined with their sense of vulnerability as foreigners) is deeply rooted in their attitudes. This determines their circumstances and their responses to signs of hostility from the host society. On the other hand, the particular geographical location and economic situation of Botswana offers Chinese merchants opportunities to avoid competing among themselves and to manage their rejection by local society.