bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ACM HotMobile 2013 poster
Authors: Li Youhuizi , Chen Hui , Shi Weisong
Published: November 2013

Mobile devices, such as smart phones and tablets, have become an integral part of our daily life, providing a lot of fancy and powerful applications. To understand and solve the battery drain problem, we design and implement the Bugu service which targets the applications running on mobile devices, analyzes event-power relationship, and provides users an overview of the power behavior of applications. We envision that three groups of people will benefit from the Bugu service. For end users, they know applications' power behavior which in turn helps them to decide which applications to install and run. For application developers, they could understand which events cause such amount of power dissipation and focus on optimizing them. For system developers, the insights provided by the Bugu service will enable them to understand the potential problem of the system so that further optimization can be enhanced.
ACM HotMobile 2013 poster
Authors: Das Prajit Kumar , Ghosh Dibyajyoti , Joshi Anupam , Finin Tim
Published: November 2013

We describe a method to carry out energy efficient privacy preservation on a mobile smartphone. Our work is based on a study of an Android smartphone's component-wise energy consumption pattern and is based on a three-fold approach to ensure efficient execution of privacy policies, based on user and app context modeled using semantic web technologies.
The RASSF1 Gene and the Opposing Effects of the RASSF1A and RASSF1C Isoforms on Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis
Authors: Reeves Mark E. , Firek Matthew , Chen Shin-Tai , Amaar Yousef
Published: November 2013

RASSF1A has been demonstrated to be a tumor suppressor, while RASSF1C is now emerging as a growth promoting protein in breast and lung cancer cells. To further highlight the dual functionality of the RASSF1 gene, we have compared the effects of RASSF1A and RASSF1C on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the presence of TNF-α. Overexpression of RASSF1C in breast and lung cancer cells reduced the effects of TNF-α on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and MST1/2 phosphorylation, while overexpression of RASSF1A had the opposite effect. We also assessed the expression of RASSF1A and RASSF1C in breast and lung tumor and matched normal tissues. We found that RASSF1A mRNA levels are significantly higher than RASSF1C mRNA levels in all normal breast and lung tissues examined. In addition, RASSF1A expression is significantly downregulated in 92% of breast tumors and in 53% of lung tumors. Conversely, RASSF1C was upregulated in 62% of breast tumors and in 47% of lung tumors. Together, these findings suggest that RASSF1C, unlike RASSF1A, is not a tumor suppressor but instead may play a role in stimulating survival in breast and lung cancer cells.
Small-Molecule Theranostic Probes: A Promising Future in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Aulić Suzana , Bolognesi Maria Laura , Legname Giuseppe
Published: November 2013

Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative illnesses, which include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans and scrapie, chronic wasting disease, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy in animals. They are caused by unconventional infectious agents consisting primarily of misfolded, aggregated,β-sheet-rich isoforms, denoted prions, of the physiological cellular prion protein (PrPC). Many lines of evidence suggest that prions (PrPSc) act both as a template for this conversion and as a neurotoxic agent causing neuronal dysfunction and cell death. As such,PrPScmay be considered as both a neuropathological hallmark of the disease and a therapeutic target. Several diagnostic imaging probes have been developed to monitor cerebral amyloid lesions in patients with neurodegenerative disorders (such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and prion disease). Examples of these probes are Congo red, thioflavin T, and their derivatives. We synthesized a series of styryl derivatives, denoted theranostics, and studied their therapeutic and/or diagnostic potentials. Here we review the salient traits of these small molecules that are able to detect and modulate aggregated forms of several proteins involved in protein misfolding diseases. We then highlight the importance of further studies for their practical implications in therapy and diagnostics.
Uniqueness of Entire Functions concerning Difference Operator
Authors: Wu Chun
Published: November 2013

We deal with a uniqueness question of entire functions sharing a nonzero value with their difference operators and obtain some results, which improve the results of Qi et al. (2010) and Zhang (2011).
Quality of Scar after Total Thyroidectomy: A Single Blinded Randomized Trial Comparing Octyl-Cyanoacrylate and Subcuticular Absorbable Suture
Authors: Consorti Fabrizio , Mancuso Rosaria , Piccolo Annalisa , Pretore Eugenio , Antonaci Alfredo
Published: November 2013

Objective. To compare the quality of resulting scar at 6 weeks after total thyroidectomy with the use of the tissue adhesive octyl-cyanoacrylate or subcuticular absorbable suture for the closure of cervicotomy. Material and Methods. There are 50 patients undergoing a cervicotomy for total thyroidectomy. Twenty-five patients were randomly assigned to closure with tissue adhesive and 25 with subcuticular absorbable suture. At week 6 the scar was evaluated by blinded assessors with the Italian version of POSAS questionnaire, a validated wound scale composed of an observer’s and a patient’s subscale. Results. Assessment of scar appearance showed a statistically significant difference () in favor of subcuticular suture with respect to tissue adhesive on observer’s assessment. The difference on patients’ self-assessment was not significant. A multivariate analysis of six qualitative features of scars showed a significant influence on assessment for hyperpigmentation and relief of scar. The Italian version of POSAS proved to be reliable. Conclusion. Though tissue adhesive represents a valid method of skin closure, subcuticular absorbable suture provides a better aesthetic outcome in small cervical incisions in the early phase after thyroid surgery.
Ten Years’ Research on a Cardiovascular Tonic: A Comprehensive Approach—From Quality Control and Mechanisms of Action to Clinical Trial
Authors: Leung Ping-Chung , Koon Chi-Man , Lau Clara Bik-San , Chook Ping , Cheng William King-Fai , Fung Kwok-Pui , Kwok Timothy Chi-Yui , Woo Kam-Sang
Published: November 2013

Objective. Mortality arising from cardiovascular pathologies remains one of the highest. Maintenance of cardiovascular health therefore remains a universal concern. Interventional therapies and medications have made impressive advances, but preventive measures would be of the same importance.Method. Ten years’ search for a simple herbal formula has resulted in a two-herb combination, consisting ofSalviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et RhizomaandPuerariae Lobatae Radix. The formula has been studied extensively on cardiovascular biological platforms and then put on three clinical trials.Results. In the laboratory, the formula was found to have the biological effects of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-foam cell formation on vascular endothelium, and vasodilation. Clinical trials using ultrasonic carotid intima thickness as a surrogate marker showed very significant benefits. No significant adverse effects were encountered.Conclusion. It is therefore recommended that the herbal formula could be used as an adjuvant therapy in cardiac patients under treatment or as a preventive agent among the susceptible.
A Review on the Fabrication of Polymer‐Based Thermoelectric Materials and Fabrication Methods
Authors: Kamarudin Muhammad Akmal , Sahamir Shahrir Razey , Datta Robi Shankar , Long Bui Duc , Mohd Sabri Mohd Faizul , Mohd Said Suhana
Published: November 2013

Thermoelectricity, by converting heat energy directly into useable electricity, offers a promising technology to convert heat from solar energy and to recover waste heat from industrial sectors and automobile exhausts. In recent years, most of the efforts have been done on improving the thermoelectric efficiency using different approaches, that is, nanostructuring, doping, molecular rattling, and nanocomposite formation. The applications of thermoelectric polymers at low temperatures, especially conducting polymers, have shown various advantages such as easy and low cost of fabrication, light weight, and flexibility. In this review, we will focus on exploring new types of polymers and the effects of different structures, concentrations, and molecular weight on thermoelectric properties. Various strategies to improve the performance of thermoelectric materials will be discussed. In addition, a discussion on the fabrication of thermoelectric devices, especially suited to polymers, will also be given. Finally, we provide the challenge and the future of thermoelectric polymers, especially thermoelectric hybrid model.
A Mixed Monotone Operator Method for the Existence and Uniqueness of Positive Solutions to Impulsive Caputo Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Zhang Jieming , Yang Chen , Zhai Chengbo
Published: November 2013

We establish some sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions to a class of initial value problem for impulsive fractional differential equations involving the Caputo fractional derivative. Our analysis relies on a fixed point theorem for mixed monotone operators. Our result can not only guarantee the existence of a unique positive solution but also be applied to construct an iterative scheme for approximating it. An example is given to illustrate our main result.
A Compendium of Urinary Biomarkers Indicative of Glomerular Podocytopathy
Authors: Sekulic Miroslav , Pichler Sekulic Simona
Published: November 2013

It is well known that glomerular podocyte injury and loss are present in numerous nephropathies and that the pathophysiologic consecution of disease hinges upon the fate of the podocyte. While multiple factors play a hand in glomerulopathy progression, basic logic lends that if one monitors the podocyte’s status, that may reflect the status of disease. Recent investigations have focused on what one can elucidate from the noninvasive collection of urine, and have proven that certain, specific biomarkers of podocytes can be readily identified via varying techniques. This paper has brought together all described urinary biomarkers of podocyte injury and is made to provide a concise summary of their utility and testing in laboratory and clinical theatres. While promising in the potential that they hold as tools for clinicians and investigators, the described biomarkers require further comprehensive vetting in the form of larger clinical trials and studies that would give their value true weight. These urinary biomarkers are put forth as novel indicators of glomerular disease presence, disease progression, and therapeutic efficacy that in some cases may be more advantageous than the established parameters/measures currently used in practice.
Male Central Precocious Puberty: Serum Profile of Anti-Müllerian Hormone and Inhibin B before, during, and after Treatment with GnRH Analogue
Authors: Grinspon Romina P. , Andreone Luz , Bedecarrás Patricia , Ropelato María Gabriela , Rey Rodolfo A. , Campo Stella M. , Bergadá Ignacio
Published: November 2013

We aimed to describe the functional changes of Sertoli cells, based on the measurement of serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B during treatment with GnRHa and after its withdrawal in boys with central precocious puberty. Six boys aged 0.8 to 5.5 yr were included. AMH was low at diagnosis in patients >1 yr but within the normal range in younger patients. AMH increased to normal prepubertal levels during treatment. After GnRHa withdrawal, AMH declined concomitantly with the rise in serum testosterone. At diagnosis, inhibin B was elevated and decreased throughout therapy, remaining in the upper normal prepubertal range. In patients with testicular volume above 4 mL AMH remained higher in spite of suppressed FSH. After treatment withdrawal, inhibin B rose towards normal pubertal levels. In conclusion, AMH did not decrease in patients <1 yr reflecting the lack of androgen receptor expression in Sertoli cells in early infancy. Serum inhibin B might result from the contribution of two sources: the mass of Sertoli cells and the stimulation exerted by FSH. Sertoli cell markers might provide additional tools for the diagnosis and treatment followup of boys with central precocious puberty.
Analysis of Robust Stability for a Class of Stochastic Systems via Output Feedback: The LMI Approach
Authors: Cong Xin-rong , Li Long-suo
Published: November 2013

This paper investigates the robust stability for a class of stochastic systems with both state and control inputs. The problem of the robust stability is solved via static output feedback, and we convert the problem to a constrained convex optimization problem involving linear matrix inequality (LMI). We show how the proposed linear matrix inequality framework can be used to select a quadratic Lyapunov function. The control laws can be produced by assuming the stability of the systems. We verify that all controllers can robustly stabilize the corresponding system. Further, the numerical simulation results verify the theoretical analysis results.
Induction of Maturogenesis by Partial Pulpotomy: 1 Year Follow-Up
Authors: Bacaksiz A. , Alaçam A.
Published: November 2013

In cariously exposed immature permanent teeth, the treatment choice is controversial in pediatric dentistry. Radical root canal treatment usually appears to be the solution for these teeth. Even partial pulpotomy is a vital treatment for traumatically exposed immature permanent teeth; extending the borders of indication towards cariously exposed immature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis may abolish the necessity of pulpectomy. This article describes the partial pulpotomy of a cariously affected immature permanent teeth and the follow-up for 1 year. A healthy 11-year-old male patient was referred to Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry Department of Pediatric Dentistry. The patient had reversible pulpitis symptoms on teeth numbered 45. At radiographic examination, immature apex and deep caries lesion were observed and partial pulpotomy was performed by using calcium hydroxide to maintain vitality of the pulp and allow continued development of root dentin expecting the root will attain full maturity. Clinical and radiographic follow-up demonstrated a vital pulp besides not only closure of the apex (apexogenesis), but also physiologic root development (maturogenesis) after 1 year. Partial pulpotomy is an optional treatment for cariously exposed immature permanent teeth for preserving vitality and physiological root development.
Antibacterial Activity of Defensin PaDef from Avocado Fruit (Persea americanavar.drymifolia) Expressed in Endothelial Cells againstEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Guzmán-Rodríguez Jaquelina Julia , López-Gómez Rodolfo , Suárez-Rodríguez Luis M. , Salgado-Garciglia Rafael , Rodríguez-Zapata Luis C. , Ochoa-Zarzosa Alejandra , López-Meza Joel E.
Published: November 2013

Antimicrobial therapy is a useful tool to control infectious diseases in general and rising antibiotic resistant microorganisms in particular. Alternative strategies are desirable, and antimicrobial peptides (AMP) represent attractive control agents. Mexican avocado (Persea americanavar.drymifolia) is used in traditional medicine; however, the AMP production has not been reported in this plant. We obtained a cDNA library from avocado fruit and clone PaDef was identified, which has a cDNA (249 bp) encoding a protein (78 aa) homologous with plant defensins (>80%). We expressed the defensinPaDefcDNA (pBME3) in the bovine endothelial cell line BVE-E6E7. Polyclonal and clonal populations were obtained and their activity was evaluated againstEscherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, andCandida albicans.E. coliviability was inhibited with 100 μg/mL of total protein from clones (>55%). Also,S. aureusviability was inhibited from 50 μg/mL total protein (27–38%) but was more evident at 100 μg/mL (52–65%). This inhibition was higher than the effect showed by polyclonal population (~23%). Finally, we did not detect activity againstC. albicans. These results are the first report that shows antimicrobial activity of a defensin produced by avocado and suggest that this AMP could be used in the control of pathogens.
The Activation of the WNT Signaling Pathway Is a Hallmark in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Tumorigenesis
Authors: Luscan Armelle , Shackleford Ghjuvan'Ghjacumu , Masliah-Planchon Julien , Laurendeau Ingrid , Ortonne Nicolas , Varin Jennifer , Lallemand François , Leroy Karen , Dumaine Valérie , Hivelin Mikael , Borderie Didier , De Raedt Thomas , Valeyrie-Allanore Laurence , Larousserie Frédérique , Terris Benoît , Lantieri Laurent , Vidaud Michel , Vidaud Dominique , Wolkenstein Pierre , Parfait Béatrice , Bièche Ivan , Massaad Charbel , Pasmant Eric
Published: November 2013

Purpose: The hallmark of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is the onset of dermal or plexiform neurofibromas, mainly composed of Schwann cells. Plexiform neurofibromas can transform into malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) that are resistant to therapies.

Experimental Design: The aim of this study was to identify an additional pathway in the NF1 tumorigenesis. We focused our work on Wnt signaling that is highly implicated in cancer, mainly in regulating the proliferation of cancer stem cells. We quantified mRNAs of 89 Wnt pathway genes in 57 NF1-associated tumors including dermal and plexiform neurofibromas and MPNSTs. Expression of two major stem cell marker genes and five major epithelial–mesenchymal transition marker genes was also assessed. The expression of significantly deregulated Wnt genes was then studied in normal human Schwann cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and mast cells and in seven MPNST cell lines.

Results: The expression of nine Wnt genes was significantly deregulated in plexiform neurofibromas in comparison with dermal neurofibromas. Twenty Wnt genes showed altered expression in MPNST biopsies and cell lines. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the Wnt pathway activation in NF1-associated MPNSTs. We then confirmed that the knockdown of NF1 in Schwann cells but not in epithelial cells provoked the activation of Wnt pathway by functional transfection assays. Furthermore, we showed that the protein expression of active β-catenin was increased in NF1-silenced cell lines. Wnt pathway activation was strongly associated to both cancer stem cell reservoir and Schwann–mesenchymal transition.

Conclusion: We highlighted the implication of Wnt pathway in NF1-associated tumorigenesis. Clin Cancer Res; 20(2); 358–71. ©2013 AACR.
Prognostic Relevance of Circulating Tumor Cells in Blood and Disseminated Tumor Cells in Bone Marrow of Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity
Authors: Gröbe Alexander , Blessmann Marco , Hanken Henning , Friedrich Reinhard E. , Schön Gerhard , Wikner Johannes , Effenberger Katharina E. , Kluwe Lan , Heiland Max , Pantel Klaus , Riethdorf Sabine
Published: November 2013

Purpose: Current staging methods for squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the oral cavity (OSCC) need to be improved to predict the risk of individual patients. Because hematogenous tumor cell dissemination is a key event in tumor progression, we assessed the prognostic significance of disseminated tumor cells (DTC) in bone marrow and circulating tumor cells (CTC) in peripheral blood from patients with OSCC.

Experimental Design: From 110 patients with OSCC, tumors were surgically resected (R0) without neoadjuvant therapy. The CellSearch system was used to enumerate CTCs. Bone marrow was aspirated from the iliac crest, and mononuclear cells (MNC) were enriched by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. To detect DTCs, MNCs were immunostained with the pan-keratin antibody A45-B/B3. Results were correlated with clinicopathologic parameters and clinical outcome such as recurrence and death during follow-up time (mean 916 days).

Results: Ten of 80 patients (12.5%) harbored CTCs in peripheral blood, whereas in 18 of 90 patients (20.0%) DTCs in bone marrow could be detected. Surprisingly, in only 2 patients (1.8%) CTCs and DTCs were detected simultaneously. Significant correlations could be found for CTCs and tumor size (P = 0.04), nodal status and DTCs (P = 0.02), and distant metastasis with CTCs (P = 0.004) and DTCs (P = 0.005). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that CTCs and DTCs were significant and independent predictors of recurrence-free survival (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Both DTCs and CTCs are independent prognostic markers in patients with OSCC, predicting relapse with higher sensitivity at various disease stages than routine staging procedures. Bone marrow might be an interesting target organ for future therapeutic interventions. Clin Cancer Res; 20(2); 425–33. ©2013 AACR.
Bevacizumab + Capecitabine as Maintenance Therapy after Initial Bevacizumab + XELOX Treatment in Previously Untreated Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Phase III ‘Stop and Go' Study Results - A Turkish Oncology Group Trial
Authors: Yalcin Suayib , Uslu Ruchan , Dane Faysal , Yilmaz Ugur , Zengin Nurullah , Buyukunal Evin , Buyukberber Suleyman , Camci Celalettin , Sencan Orhan , Kilickap Sadettin , Ozdener Fatih , Cevik Duygu
Published: November 2013

Objective: It was the aim of this study to evaluate maintenance therapy with bevacizumab + capecitabine following induction with bevacizumab + capecitabine + oxaliplatin (XELOX) versus bevacizumab + XELOX until progression as first-line therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Methods: Patients received either bevacizumab (7.5 mg/kg) + XELOX (capecitabine 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1-14 + oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 on day 1 every 3 weeks) until disease progression (arm A) or the same doses of bevacizumab + XELOX for 6 cycles followed by bevacizumab + capecitabine until disease progression (arm B). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and safety. Results: One hundred and twenty-three patients were randomized. Treatment compliance was similar in both groups. Median PFS was significantly longer for arm B than for arm A (11.0 vs. 8.3 months; p = 0.002). There was no significant difference between the two arms for ORR (66.7 vs. 59.0%; p = 0.861) or median OS (23.8 vs. 20.2 months; p = 0.100). Tolerability was acceptable in both treatment arms; the most frequent grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse events (arm B vs. arm A) were fatigue (6.6 vs. 16.1%), diarrhoea (3.3 vs. 11.3%), anorexia (3.3 vs. 11.3%), and neuropathy (1.6 vs. 8.1%). Conclusions: Maintenance therapy with bevacizumab + capecitabine can be considered an appropriate option following induction bevacizumab + XELOX in patients with mCRC instead of continuation of bevacizumab + XELOX.
Protein Restriction after Weaning Modifies the Calcium Kinetics and Induces Cardiomyocyte Contractile Dysfunction in Rats
Authors: Penitente Arlete R. , Novaes Rômulo D. , Chianca Jr. Deoclécio A. , da Silva Márcia F. , Silva Marcelo E. , Souza Aline M.A. , Guatimosim Silvia , Almeida Pedro W.M. , Alves Márcia N.M. , Felix Leonardo B. , Neves Clóvis A. , Natali Antônio J.
Published: November 2013

Protein restriction (PR) is associated with cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects on single ventricular cardiomyocyte contractile function of a short-term PR after weaning. Male Fischer rats that were 28 days old were randomly divided into a control group (CG, n = 16) and a protein-restricted group (PRG, n = 16). After weaning, CG and PRG animals received isocaloric diets containing 15 and 6% protein, respectively, for 35 days. Biometric parameters were then measured, and the hearts were removed for the analysis of contractile function and calcium transient in isolated cardiomyocytes of the left ventricule (LV), and the quantification of calcium and collagen fibers in LV myocardium. PRG animals had lower body weight (BW) and LV weight (LVW), an increased LVW to BW ratio and a higher proportion of collagen fibers than CG animals. PRG animals exhibited reduced tissue levels of calcium, reduced the length, width and volume of cardiomyocytes and their sarcomere length compared to CG animals. Cardiomyocytes from PRG animals had a lower amplitude of shortening, a slower time to the peak of shortening and a longer time to half-relaxation than those from the CG. Cardiomyocytes from PRG animals also presented a lower peak of calcium transient and a longer calcium transient decay time than CG animals. Taken together, the results indicate that short-term PR after weaning induces a marked structural remodeling of the myocardium parenchyma and stroma that coexists with contractile dysfunctions in single LV cardiomyocytes of rats, which is probably associated with pathological changes of the intracellular calcium kinetics, rather than inadequate available amounts of this mineral in cardiac tissue.
Congenital Hypothyroidism Treatment in Infants: A Comparative Study between Liquid and Tablet Formulations of Levothyroxine
Authors: Peroni Elena , Vigone Maria Cristina , Mora Stefano , Bassi Lorenzo Andrea , Pozzi Clara , Passoni Arianna , Weber Giovanna
Published: November 2013

Aims: To compare the effects of liquid and tablet formulations of levothyroxine (L-T4) in 78 newborns with congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Methods: 39 patients received liquid L-T4 (group A) and 39 patients received tablets (group B). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) were measured and L-T4 dose recorded at onset of therapy and during the first year of treatment. Developmental quotient (DQ) was assessed by Griffiths' mental development scales at 12 months of age. Results: Gestational age, birth weight, screening TSH, etiology and severity of CH, age at onset of therapy and median initial L-T4 dose were similar in both groups. fT4 concentration normalized before 10 days of treatment in all patients. Normalization of TSH concentration was achieved after 7-10 days of therapy in 87% of group A patients and in 82% of group B patients. Group A patients had significantly lower TSH values compared with those of group B at 7-10 days (p = 0.05) and 6-8 months (p = 0.043) of treatment, despite similar L-T4 dose and fT4 concentration. Mean DQ scores were within normal range in all patients. Conclusion: We confirmed the efficacy and safety of both formulations. The TSH inhibition trend when using liquid L-T4 may be linked to a higher absorption in comparison to the tablets.
Gastric Marginal Zone Lymphoma of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue and Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma, Synchronous Collision Tumour of the Stomach: A Case Report
Authors: George Smiley Annie , Junaid T.A.
Published: November 2013

Objective: To report a rare case of synchronous marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) signet ring cell carcinoma occurring as a collision tumour in the stomach. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 53-year-old man was diagnosed initially with signet ring cell carcinoma of the stomach. The microscopy of the subsequent total gastrectomy revealed a collision tumour of MALT lymphoma and signet ring cell carcinoma associated with Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Conclusion: This case highlighted the importance of a careful evaluation of the accompanying lymphoid population in the biopsy samples of gastric adenocarcinoma and underlined the need for multiple endoscopic biopsies to detect these rare synchronous tumours.
Echo-Guided Mitral Repair
Authors: Drake Daniel H. , Zimmerman Karen G. , Hepner Anne M. , Nichols Cynthia D.
Published: November 2013

Background—

Echocardiography is available in the most basic healthcare environments. Mitral repair is potentially curative and, when possible, recommended over replacement. The efficacy of echo-guided repair has not been established.

Methods and Results—

We developed a succinct set of precisely defined images observed to be highly concordant with intraoperative findings. These images guided intervention on 237 consecutive patients. None were lost to follow-up, and serial echocardiography was obtained on all repairs. This analysis includes 2037 echocardiograms. The intent to repair or replace was documented preoperatively in 98.7%. Concordance was associated with successful repair (97.8% versus 57.1%;
P
=0.001). Three-dimensional concordance was higher than 2-dimensional (100% versus 94.4%;
P
=0.05). Echocardiography guided a graduated surgical approach for degenerative and myopathic repairs by quantifying segmental prolapse, anterior leaflet closing angles, and tenting for integration of secondary chord lysis (
P
<0.001) and commissural width (
P
<0.01). Repair rates increased from 46.5% to 77.6% (
P
<0.001). Concomitant Society of Thoracic Surgeons rates were 46.6% (versus unguided 46.5%;
P
=0.99) and 54.9% (versus echo guided 77.6%;
P
<0.001). Repair was successful in 91.5% of isolated echo-guided mitral operations (versus concomitant Society of Thoracic Surgeons 70.0%;
P
<0.001). Echo-guided repair rates for degenerative, myopathic, and inflammatory diseases were 99.0%, 97.1%, and 84.2% with linearized annual recurrent regurgitation of 0.63%, 2.19%, and 4.37%, respectively.

Conclusions—

Echocardiography can reliably identify repairable mitral disease and guide intervention. Echo-guided repair is associated with a higher rate of initial success than unguided historical and concomitant national controls. Three-dimensional echo improves concordance. Secondary chord lysis is associated with durable repair and may prevent ventricular remodeling.
Long-Term Antihypertensive Treatment Fails to Improve E/e′ Despite Regression of Left Ventricular Mass
Authors: Barron Anthony J. , Hughes Alun D. , Sharp Andrew , Baksi Arun J. , Surendran Praveen , Jabbour Richard J. , Stanton Alice , Poulter Neil , Fitzgerald Des , Sever Peter , O’Brien Eoin , Thom Simon , Mayet Jamil
Published: November 2013

Antihypertensive treatment can improve tissue Doppler indices of left ventricular diastolic function in the short term, but little is known about the longer-term effect of different antihypertensive treatments on progression of left ventricular diastolic function and left ventricular hypertrophy. We hypothesized that long-term treatment of hypertension will lead to improvements in left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic function. We collected detailed cardiovascular phenotypic data on 1006 participants from a substudy of the Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial. Patients randomized to either an amlodipine±perindopril-based or an atenolol±bendroflumethiazide-based regimen underwent conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography at time of control of blood pressure after randomization (≈1.5 years; phase 1) and after a further 2 years of antihypertensive treatment (phase 2). There were no prerandomization data. Five hundred thirty-six patients had complete data collection at both phases. Left ventricular mass index regressed from phase 1 to 2 with no significant difference between treatment groups (amlodipine: 119.5–116.8; atenolol: 122.9–117.5;
P
<0.001 for both). Conversely, tissue Doppler diastolic indices did not change in the amlodipine±perindopril-based regimen (E/e′, 7.5–7.6 cm/s;
P
=not significant), but deteriorated in the atenolol±bendroflumethiazide-based regimen (E/e′, 8.0–8.5 cm/s;
P
<0.01). Despite regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, there was no associated improvement in diastolic function. In fact, long-term treatment with atenolol±bendroflumethiazide resulted in a progressive deterioration in E/e′. This may be a factor contributing to the previously described worse clinical outcome in patients treated with atenolol±bendroflumethiazide compared with amlodipine±perindopril.
Plasma Soluble (Pro)Renin Receptor Is Independent of Plasma Renin, Prorenin, and Aldosterone Concentrations But Is Affected by Ethnicity
Authors: Nguyen Geneviève , Blanchard Anne , Curis Emmanuel , Bergerot Damien , Chambon Yann , Hirose Takuo , Caumont-Prim Aurore , Tabard Sylvie Brailly , Baron Stéphanie , Frank Michael , Totsune Kazuhito , Azizi Michel
Published: November 2013

A soluble (pro)renin receptor (sPRR) circulates in plasma and is able to bind renin and prorenin. It is not known whether plasma sPRR concentrations vary with the activity of the renin–angiotensin system. We measured plasma sPRR, renin, prorenin, and aldosterone concentrations in 121 white and 9 black healthy subjects, 40 patients with diabetes mellitus, 41 hypertensive patients with or without renin–angiotensin system blockers, 9 patients with primary aldosteronism, and 10 patients with Gitelman syndrome. Median physiological plasma sPRR concentration was 23.5 ng/mL (interquartile range, 20.9–26.5) under usual uncontrolled sodium diet. sPRR concentration in healthy subjects, unlike renin and prorenin, did not display circadian variation or dependence on age, sex, posture, or hormonal status. sPRR concentrations were ≈25% lower in black than in white subjects, whereas renin concentrations were ≈40% lower. Patients with diabetes mellitus (average renin–high prorenin levels) and with hypertension only (average renin–average prorenin levels) had sPRR concentrations similar to healthy subjects. Renin–angiotensin system blockade was associated with increase of sPRR concentration by ≈12%. sPRR in patients with primary aldosteronism (low renin–low prorenin) and Gitelman syndrome (high renin–high prorenin) were similar and ≈10% higher than in healthy subjects. There was no correlation between sPRR and renin or prorenin. In conclusion, our results show that plasma sPRR concentrations are dependent on ethnicity and independent of renin, prorenin, and aldosterone concentrations in healthy subjects and in patients with contrasted degrees of renin–angiotensin system activity.
Valid publication of the name Carex henryi (Cyperaceae) from Asia
Authors: DENG YUNFEI
Published: November 2013

Carex Linnaeus (1753: 972) is one of the largest genera of seed plants (Frodin 2004). It comprises about 2,000 species worldwide and is easily distinguished from other genera of Cyperaceae by having perigynia enclosing the nutlets (Reznicek 1990, Goetghebeur 1998, Govaerts et al. 2007, Mabberley 2008, Dai et al. 2010). There are 535 species in three subgenera and 57 sections recognized in China (Dai et al. 2010, Wang et al. 2012).
Cluster Analysis: A New Approach Applied to Lidar Measurements for Atmospheric Boundary Layer Height Estimation
Authors: Toledo Daniel , Córdoba-Jabonero Carmen , Gil-Ojeda Manuel
Published: November 2013

Several procedures are widely applied to estimate the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) top height by using aerosols as tracers from lidar measurements. These methods represent different mathematical approaches, relying on either the abrupt step of the aerosol concentration between the ABL and the free troposphere (FT) or the statistical analysis of vertical variations of the aerosol concentration. An alternative method—the cluster analysis (CA)—has been applied to lidar measurements for the first time, emerging as a useful and robust approach for calculating the ABL height, taking the advantage of both previous variables: the vertical aerosol distribution as obtained from the lidar range-corrected signal (RCS) and the statistical analysis of the RCS profiles in terms of its variance to determine a region of high aerosol loading variability. CA limitations under real situations are also tested, and the effects in ABL height determination of both noise and cloud contamination in RCS are examined. In particular, CA results are weakly sensitive to the signal noise due to the basic features of this statistical method. In addition, differences in the ABL top height, as estimated under cloudy and clear skies, have been found to be lower than 1.8% for a high RCS signal, while no effect is observed for low RCS cloud conditions. Moreover, the CA performance on the ABL top height determination for real cases is also presented, showing the reliable CA skills in reproducing the ABL evolution.
Memory and Metacognition in Dangerous Situations
Authors: Hobbs Malcolm , Higham Philip A. , Kneller Wendy
Published: November 2013

Objective:

The current study tested whether undersea divers are able to accurately judge their level of memory impairment from inert gas narcosis.

Background:

Inert gas narcosis causes a number of cognitive impairments, including a decrement in memory ability. Undersea divers may be unable to accurately judge their level of impairment, affecting safety and work performance.

Method:

In two underwater field experiments, performance decrements on tests of memory at 33 to 42 m were compared with self-ratings of impairment and resolution. The effect of depth (shallow [1-11 m] vs. deep [33-42 m]) was measured on free-recall (Experiment 1; n = 41) and cued-recall (Experiment 2; n = 39) performance, a visual-analogue self-assessment rating of narcotic impairment, and the accuracy of judgements-of-learning (JOLs).

Results:

Both free- and cued-recall were significantly reduced in deep, compared to shallow, conditions. This decrement was accompanied by an increase in self-assessed impairment. In contrast, resolution (based on JOLs) remained unaffected by depth. The dissociation of memory accuracy and resolution, coupled with a shift in a self-assessment of impairment, indicated that divers were able to accurately judge their decrease in memory performance at depth.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that impaired self-assessment and resolution may not actually be a symptom of narcosis in the depth range of 33 to 42 m underwater and that the divers in this study were better equipped to manage narcosis than prior literature suggested. The results are discussed in relation to implications for diver safety and work performance.
Carbon nanotubes/silver nanoparticles/poly(azo-thiourea) hybrids: Morphological, tensile and conductivity profile
Authors: Kausar Ayesha , Siddiq Muhammad
Published: November 2013

Carbon nanotubes were decorated with silver nanoparticles (CNTs/Ag) using N,N-dimethylformamide as a reductant in this study. A new heteroaromatic azo-polymer, poly(azo-thiourea) (PAT) was also prepared using 4-(4-aminobenzyl)benzenamine and diazonium salt solution of 2,6-diaminopyridine. PAT was subjugated as a matrix material to synthesize new hybrids using CNTs/Ag as filler. To prepare the nanocomposites, melt compounding and solution mixing techniques were employed. The results showed that the CNTs/Ag effectively improved the electrical conductivity, mechanical and thermal properties of CNTs/Ag/PAT nanocomposites. The solution mixing method resulted in a better dispersion of filler leading to higher mechanical strength (52.47–54.36 MPa) relative to melt system (29.11–39.22 MPa). The solution method also gave better electrical properties due to lack of oxidization of silver nanoparticles. Consequently, increasing the filler content from 1 to 5 wt% increased the electrical conductivity from 4.89 to 6.12 S/cm. Scanning electron micrographs revealed fine dispersion of filler and adhesion of matrix to the nanotube surface in solution method. Thermal stability of the materials studied via 10% gravimetric loss was found to increase from 522℃ to 543℃ (solution) and 512℃ to 521℃ (melt). Similarly, glass transition of solution mixed system (242–249℃) was higher than the melted one (212–217℃).
Public Administrators and Noncitizens
Authors: Lucio Joanna D.
Published: November 2013

Recent debates surrounding immigration policy have underscored the challenges facing local administrators. This article explores administrators’ attitudes toward documented and undocumented immigrants and their beliefs about immigrants’ participation in local government. A survey of municipal administrators was conducted in Arizona. Results indicate that administrators who believed undocumented immigrants are associated with problems for their cities were less interested in having undocumented immigrants participate in local government, and, moreover, that administrators made distinctions between documented and undocumented immigrants. Public safety administrators tended to be less inclined to encourage the civic participation of undocumented immigrants than other administrators.
Developing figures for ‘gain’ in relation to refrigerated cabinets in a supermarket building
Authors: Hill Frances , Watkins Richard , Edwards Rodger
Published: November 2013

Heat transfers into refrigerated cabinets from their surroundings. Currently, this heat transfer is ignored in building design compliance protocols (National Calculation Methodology), and a heat gain to the zone is included in modelling the retail floor, to represent the energy use of the refrigeration system, although this is normally outside of this zone. Previous work has established that a store designed for energy reduction with the heat transfers to refrigerated cabinets from the surroundings included in the modelling could have at least 20–35% lower energy demand (and CO2 emissions) than a store modelled and ‘optimised’ on the National Calculation Methodology basis. This paper therefore offers an appropriate algorithm for ‘negative gains’ relating to refrigerated cabinet heat transfers for use in design and compliance modelling of supermarket buildings.

Practical application: The algorithm offered, when incorporated into design modelling, will enable significantly improved identification of the sensitivity of the thermal balance of the supermarket building to variation of building envelope parameters, and thereby enable significantly improved energy savings to be realised.
Body Weight, Marital Status, and Changes in Marital Status
Authors: Teachman Jay
Published: November 2013

In this article, I use 20 years of data taken from the 1979 National Longitudinal Study of Youth to examine the relationship between body weight and both marital status and changes in marital status. I use a latent growth curve model that allows both fixed and random effects. The results show that living without a partner, either being divorced or never married, is associated with lower body weight. Cohabitors and married respondents tend to weigh more. Marital transitions also matter but only for divorce. Gender does not appear to moderate these results.
Missionary Insurgency and Marginality of Modernity in Colonial South India
Authors: Doss M. Christhu
Published: November 2013

This article argues that despite some efforts by early missionaries, Christians in India have continued to practise various forms of caste prejudice. The multi-dimensional understanding of caste made this issue heavily contested, dividing the Christian communities into two major components of marginal Christians, later known as Dalit Christians, and elite Christians constituting largely Nadars and Vellalas in South India. Despite considerable missionary misgivings about caste identities and resultant discriminations, traditional differentiation carried on and took new forms. This article traces these debates and shows the challenges of opposing caste-based discriminations that continue today.
Between Inequality and Identity
Authors: Tejani Shabnum
Published: November 2013

Recent attention to the history of constitution-making in India reflects ongoing concerns about the difficulties and limitations of India’s secular, democratic experiment. Scholars assessing India’s secularism have pointed to the failure to separate the state from its involvement in religion from the outset. Through a study of the Constituent Assembly debates, this article suggests that the emphasis on ‘religion’ as the problem for secularism has been a distraction, taking the gaze away from the substantive arguments minorities were making about how their equal citizenship should be guaranteed. It remained unclear what recognition of ‘minority’ status was meant to achieve in postcolonial India and what it signified. In failing to recognise the claims of religious minorities for their equality, the Constituent Assembly reified their position as permanently unequal communities in the newly independent state.
Offender and state compensation for victims of crime
Authors: Miers David
Published: November 2013

This article comprises an overview of the principal normative and operational issues that arise in both common and civil law states’ arrangements for the compensation and reparation of victims of crime. Balancing what are inevitably generalized statements about jurisdictions within federal common law countries and within the European Union, the article illustrates these issues with details drawn from the civil and criminal justice systems of England and Wales. The article begins with some general observations about the ways in which compensation and reparation by offenders and compensation by the state form elements in a state’s overall objectives for victims within its criminal justice system, and addresses the question of what we might understand by ‘compensation’ in a criminal justice context, and how that sits with civil justice. For this purpose ‘compensation’ may be understood both in the compendious sense of any offender or state financial payment in respect of a victim’s loss or injury or of the offender’s direct or indirect restoration of stolen or damaged property, and in its discrete sense of a purely monetary response distinct from the non-monetary responses that characterize ‘reparation’ − responses now widely associated with restorative justice. The article provides some detail on compensation and reparation by offenders as forms of criminal justice disposals, and on the scope and the functions of state compensation schemes.
Accurate indoor localization with ultra-wideband using spatial models and collaboration
Authors: Prorok Amanda , Martinoli Alcherio
Published: November 2013

Ultra-wideband (UWB) localization is a recent technology that performs competitively with many indoor localization methods currently available. Despite its desirable traits, such as potential high accuracy and high material penetrability, the resolution of non-line-of-sight signals remains a very hard problem and has a significant impact on the localization performance. In this work, we address the peculiarities of UWB error behavior by building models that capture the spatiality as well as the multimodal statistics of the error behavior. Our framework utilizes tessellated maps that associate probabilistic error models to localities in space. In addition to our UWB localization strategy (which provides absolute position estimates), we investigate the effects of collaboration in the form of relative positioning. To this end, we develop a relative range and bearing model and, together with the UWB model, present a unified localization technique based on a particle filter framework. We test our approach experimentally on a group of 10 mobile robots equipped with UWB emitters and extension modules providing inter-robot relative range and bearing measurements. Our experimental insights highlight the benefits of collaboration, which are consistent over numerous experimental scenarios. Also, we show the relevance, in terms of positioning accuracy, of our multimodal UWB measurement model by performing systematic comparisons with two alternative measurement models. Our final results show median localization errors below 10 cm in cluttered environments, using a modest set of 50 particles in our filter.