bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and molecular epidemiology of dermatophyte isolates by repetitive‐sequence‐PCR‐based DNA fingerprinting using the DiversiLab system in Turkey
Authors: Koc A. Nedret , Atalay Mustafa A. , Inci Melek , Sariguzel Fatma M. , Sav Hafize
Published: February 2017

Dermatophyte species, isolation and identification in clinical samples are still difficult and take a long time. The identification and molecular epidemiology of dermatophytes commonly isolated in a clinical laboratory in Turkey by repetitive sequence‐based PCR (rep‐PCR) were assessed by comparing the results with those of reference identification. A total of 44 dermatophytes isolated from various clinical specimens of 20 patients with superficial mycoses in Kayseri and 24 patients in Hatay were studied. The identification of dermatophyte isolates was based on the reference identification and rep‐PCR using the DiversiLab System (BioMerieux). The genotyping of dermatophyte isolates from different patients was determined by rep‐PCR. In the identification of dermatophyte isolates, agreement between rep‐PCR and conventional methods was 87.8 % ( 36 of 41). The dermatophyte strains belonged to four clones (A ‐D) which were determined by the use of rep‐PCR. The dermatophyte strains in Clone B, D showed identical patterns with respect to the region. In conclusion, rep‐PCR appears to be useful for evaluation of the identification and clonal relationships between Trichophyton rubrum species complex and Trichophyton mentagrophytes species complex isolates. The similarity and diversity of these isolates may be assessed according to different regions by rep‐PCR.
Transnational executive bodies: EU policy implementation between the EU and member state level
Authors: Joosen Rik , Brandsma Gijs Jan
Published: February 2017

Existing typologies of the European administrative space locate decision‐making powers with the European Commission, member state governments, and EU and national agencies, sometimes aided through regulatory networks. This article argues that those typologies are incomplete because they do not take into account the existence of transnational executive bodies. These are public authorities that are responsible for administering and implementing EU policies across multiple member states, that are part of neither domestic nor EU institutions and whose decisions are legally binding. They represent a potentially highly prevalent form of governance in a previously uncharted area of the European administrative space. We document their workings by presenting a case study of the Rhine‐Alpine Corridor organization, a transnational executive body implementing parts of the EU rail freight policy.
Pathogenicity and virulence gene content of Xanthomonas strains infecting Araceae, formerly known as Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. dieffenbachiae
Authors: Constantin E. C. , Haegeman A. , Van Vaerenbergh J. , Baeyen S. , Van Malderghem C. , Maes M. , Cottyn B.
Published: February 2017

Bacterial leaf blight of aroids is caused by a heterogeneous group of xanthomonads listed as Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. dieffenbachiae (Xad) on the EPPO A2 quarantine list. Recently, Xad strains were shown not to belong to X. axonopodis but to the species X. citri, X. phaseoli and X. euvesicatoria. Here, to verify the pathovar designation, 11 representative strains were tested for pathogenicity on six aroid genera. They had overlapping host ranges and only the strain isolated from Syngonium showed host specificity. The X. citri strains, isolated from various hosts, showed dissimilarity in virulence to the tested aroid genera. The X. phaseoli strains, isolated from Anthurium and Syngonium, were generally more virulent and, additionally, induced systemic infections. The X. euvesicatoria strains, isolated from Philodendron, were scored as not pathogenic on the tested aroids. Four representative strains were genome sequenced and showed a variable virulence‐associated gene content. Pathogenicity to aroids was correlated with the presence of three specific T3 effector genes and with a T6SS gene sequence. Together, the phylogenetic and pathogenic differentiation among Xad strains justifies the installation of three pathovar epithets for the pathogens on aroids: X. phaseoli pv. dieffenbachiae comb. nov. for the strains isolated from Anthurium; X. phaseoli pv. syngonii comb. nov. for the strain isolated from Syngonium; and X. citri pv. aracearum comb. nov. for the strains isolated from Aglaonema, Xanthosoma and Dieffenbachia. It is proposed that phytosanitary regulations for xanthomonads on aroids are restricted to these three pathovars.
Brain electrical activity signatures during performance of the Multisource Interference Task
Authors: González‐Villar Alberto J. , Carrillo‐de‐la‐Peña Maria T.
Published: February 2017

The Multisource Interference Task (MSIT) was developed to test cognitive control in normal and pathological conditions and has become a reliable tool for exploring the integrity of cingulo‐frontal‐parietal cognitive/attentional networks in fMRI studies. Analysis of EEG recordings made during performance of the MSIT may provide additional information about the temporal dynamics of cognitive control. However, this has not yet been investigated in depth. In this study, we analyzed the ERPs and carried out time‐frequency decomposition of EEG recorded during control and interference conditions of the MSIT. The N2 ERP component and midfrontal theta power (both considered neural signatures of conflict processing) were significantly larger in interference than in control trials. Theta also showed higher phase synchronization between midfrontal and right frontolateral scalp locations in the interference condition, supporting the view that this frequency band entrains additional brain resources when a need for greater control arises. In interference trials, we also observed longer P3 latency, larger P3 amplitude, and greater reduction of posterior alpha (modulations related to allocation of attentional resources), in addition to a greater reduction of central beta power (related to motor preparation). In conclusion, the MSIT reliably modulated brain electrical activity related to cognitive control and attention. The EEG indices obtained during the performance of this task may be useful for exploring the functioning of cognitive/attentional networks in healthy and clinical populations.
Error monitoring and empathy: Explorations within a neurophysiological context
Authors: Amiruddin Azhani , Fueggle Simone N. , Nguyen An T. , Gignac Gilles E. , Clunies‐Ross Karen L. , Fox Allison M.
Published: February 2017

Past literature has proposed that empathy consists of two components: cognitive and affective empathy. Error monitoring mechanisms indexed by the error‐related negativity (ERN) have been associated with empathy. Studies have found that a larger ERN is associated with higher levels of empathy. We aimed to expand upon previous work by investigating how error monitoring relates to the independent theoretical domains of cognitive and affective empathy. Study 1 (N = 24) explored the relationship between error monitoring mechanisms and subcomponents of empathy using the Questionnaire of Cognitive and Affective Empathy and found no relationship. Study 2 (N = 38) explored the relationship between the error monitoring mechanisms and overall empathy. Contrary to past findings, there was no evidence to support a relationship between error monitoring mechanisms and scores on empathy measures. A subsequent meta‐analysis (Study 3, N = 125) summarizing the relationship across previously published studies together with the two studies reported in the current paper indicated that overall there was no significant association between ERN and empathy and that there was significant heterogeneity across studies. Future investigations exploring the potential variables that may moderate these relationships are discussed.
“It's Almost Like They Were Happier When You Were Down”: Microaggressions and Overt Hostility Against Native Americans in a Community with Gaming
Authors: Senter Mary S. , Ling David A.
Published: February 2017

In this article, we use qualitative data from 100 Native Americans living in mid‐Michigan to document the changing nature of interactions between whites and tribal members. The community studied has seen significant changes in the economic and social position of the tribal community thanks to two decades of successful gaming operations. We find that, while Native Americans attest to positive changes in the community, many of which originate within the tribe itself, hostile and negative attitudes on the part of whites persist. Some of these contemporary attitudes are carry‐overs of traditional anti‐Native prejudice, while others reflect a reworking of old stereotypes to reflect new realities, while maintaining an unequal racial order. Hostile attitudes are accompanied by discriminatory behavior, often in the form of microaggressions. We suggest that, while old‐fashioned racism has not disappeared, modern racism is more subtle and complex. While contemporary Native Americans react to and resist racism in a variety of ways, modern racist attitudes and the microaggressions that accompany them serve to reinforce an unequal racial status quo and the maintenance of a racial hierarchy of group positions.
Microbiologic yield of bronchoalveolar lavage specimens from stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Sakata Kenneth K. , Klassen Christine L. , Bollin Kathryn B. , Grys Thomas E. , Slack James L. , Wesselius Lewis J. , Vikram Holenarasipur R.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients commonly undergo bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) collection as an infectious pulmonary work‐up. Previous studies report the utility and overall diagnostic yield of fiberoptic bronchoscopy with BAL in this vulnerable population, though none focused purely on microbiologic yield or made comparisons with less invasive means of pathogen detection. We sought to determine and elaborate on the microbiologic yield of BAL in SCT recipients, assess a correlation between BAL studies and less invasive means of pathogen detection, and assess the utility of repeating a BAL within 30 days.

Methods

Between January 1, 2009, and July 31, 2013, we reviewed medical records of 125 SCT recipients who underwent 179 BALs. In addition to demographic information and details pertaining to their SCT, a comprehensive review of their microbiologic data was performed and recorded.

Results

Our study showed an overall BAL microbiologic yield of 40%, despite 92% of patients receiving broad‐spectrum antimicrobial therapy at the time of the BAL procedure.

Conclusions

Although an initial BAL sample in this population provides crucial microbiologic information, repeating the procedure within 30 days may have minimal additional microbiologic yield. BAL continues to be an essential diagnostic tool in SCT recipients undergoing an infectious pulmonary work‐up.
Geometric Langlands in prime characteristic
Authors: Chen Tsao-Hsien , Zhu Xinwen
Published: February 2017

Let $G$ be a semi-simple algebraic group over an algebraically closed field $k$, whose characteristic is positive and does not divide the order of the Weyl group of $G$, and let $\breve{G}$ be its Langlands dual group over $k$. Let $C$ be a smooth projective curve over $k$ of genus at least two. Denote by $\operatorname{Bun}_{G}$ the moduli stack of $G$-bundles on $C$ and $\operatorname{LocSys}_{\breve{G}}$ the moduli stack of $\breve{G}$-local systems on $C$. Let $D_{\operatorname{Bun}_{G}}$ be the sheaf of crystalline differential operators on $\operatorname{Bun}_{G}$. In this paper we construct an equivalence between the bounded derived category $D^{b}(\operatorname{QCoh}(\operatorname{LocSys}_{\breve{G}}^{0}))$ of quasi-coherent sheaves on some open subset $\operatorname{LocSys}_{\breve{G}}^{0}\subset \operatorname{LocSys}_{\breve{G}}$ and bounded derived category $D^{b}(D_{\operatorname{Bun}_{G}}^{0}\text{-}\text{mod})$ of modules over some localization $D_{\operatorname{Bun}_{G}}^{0}$ of $D_{\operatorname{Bun}_{G}}$. This generalizes the work of Bezrukavnikov and Braverman in the $\operatorname{GL}_{n}$ case.
Hypertension‐induced remodelling: on the interactions of cardiac risk factors
Authors: Tomek Jakub , Bub Gil
Published: February 2017

Hypertension induces considerable cardiac remodelling, such as hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and abnormal activity of the cardiac sympathetic nervous system, which are established risk factors in several highly dangerous heart diseases, such as ventricular fibrillation and congestive heart failure. All these risk factors and heart diseases are studied extensively in isolation, but to our knowledge, there is no comprehensive review of their interactions. At the same time, there is growing evidence suggesting that such interactions are numerous and that a successful therapy against a particular condition may have unexpectedly weak effects on mortality, as treated patients may die of a different cause exacerbated by the therapy. In this article, we present a multiscale review of the literature focusing on the relationships between the above‐mentioned risk factors and heart diseases, and introduce a framework that gives insight into their possible interactions. We use this framework to demonstrate that conditions such as fibrosis and elevated activity of the sympathetic nervous system may be compensatory, rather than purely pathological, mechanisms in certain contexts. Finally, we show why the described mechanisms are relevant not only in hypertension, but also in the case of healed myocardial infarction.

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Geniculohypothalamic GABAergic projections gate suprachiasmatic nucleus responses to retinal input
Authors: Hanna Lydia , Walmsley Lauren , Pienaar Abigail , Howarth Michael , Brown Timothy M.
Published: February 2017

Key points

Visual input to the suprachiasmatic nucleus circadian clock is critical for animals to adapt their physiology and behaviour in line with the solar day.

In addition to direct retinal projections, the clock receives input from the visual thalamus, although the role of this geniculohypothalamic pathway in circadian photoreception is poorly understood.

In the present study, we develop a novel brain slice preparation that preserves the geniculohypothalamic pathway to show that GABAergic thalamic neurons inhibit retinally‐driven activity in the central clock in a circadian time‐dependent manner.

We also show that in vivo manipulation of thalamic signalling adjusts specific features of the hypothalamic light response, indicating that the geniculohypothalamic pathway is primarily activated by crossed retinal inputs.

Our data provide a mechanism by which geniculohypothalamic signals can adjust the magnitude of circadian and more acute hypothalamic light responses according to time‐of‐day and establish an important new model for future investigations of the circadian visual system.

Sensory input to the master mammalian circadian clock, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), is vital in allowing animals to optimize physiology and behaviour alongside daily changes in the environment. Retinal inputs encoding changes in external illumination provide the principle source of such information. The SCN also receives input from other retinorecipient brain regions, primarily via the geniculohypothalamic tract (GHT), although the contribution of these indirect projections to circadian photoreception is currently poorly understood. To address this deficit, in the present study, we established an in vitro mouse brain slice preparation that retains connectivity across the extended circadian system. Using multi‐electrode recordings, we first confirm that this preparation retains intact optic projections to the SCN, thalamus and pretectum and a functional GHT. We next show that optogenetic activation of GHT neurons selectively suppresses SCN responses to retinal input, and also that this effect exhibits a pronounced day/night variation and involves a GABAergic mechanism. This inhibitory action was not associated with overt circadian rhythmicity in GHT output, indicating modulation at the SCN level. Finally, we use in vivo electrophysiological recordings alongside pharmacological inactivation or optogenetic excitation to show that GHT signalling actively modulates specific features of the SCN light response, indicating that GHT cells are primarily activated by crossed retinal projections. Taken together, our data establish a new model for studying network communication in the extended circadian system and provide novel insight into the roles of GHT‐signalling, revealing a mechanism by which thalamic activity can help gate retinal input to the SCN according to time of day.
A Systematic Review of Influences on Development of Athletes With Disabilities
Authors: Dehghansai Nima , Lemez Srdjan , Wattie Nick , Baker Joseph
Published: February 2017

Compared with mainstream sport athletes, relatively little is known regarding the factors affecting the development of athletes with a disability. Sport-specific training programs are essential to athletes’ successful performance; to create appropriate programs and strategies, a clear understanding of the nuances of development of athletes with a disability is important. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize existing research on development in athletes with a disability and examine the key determinants of successful development and sporting performance. After a search of the Web of Science and SPORTDiscus databases, 21 articles were identified that met the inclusion criteria, which were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and categorized into 3 groups: training and practice, shortterm interventions, and long-term changes due to training. Among the studies, there was a disproportionate focus on immediate interventions and training programs and less on long-term development. The review reflected a lack of research on sportspecific development of athletes with a disability, which raises concerns regarding the effectiveness and appropriateness of current training practices.
An accreting pulsar with extreme properties drives an ultraluminous x-ray source in NGC 5907
Authors: Israel Gian Luca , Belfiore Andrea , Stella Luigi , Esposito Paolo , Casella Piergiorgio , De Luca Andrea , Marelli Martino , Papitto Alessandro , Perri Matteo , Puccetti Simonetta , Castillo Guillermo A. Rodríguez , Salvetti David , Tiengo Andrea , Zampieri Luca , D’Agostino Daniele , Greiner Jochen , Haberl Frank , Novara Giovanni , Salvaterra Ruben , Turolla Roberto , Watson Mike , Wilms Joern , Wolter Anna
Published: February 2017

Spinning up an extragalactic neutron star

Ultraluminous x-ray sources (ULXs) are strange objects in other galaxies that cannot be explained by conventional accretion onto stellar-mass objects. This has led to exotic interpretations, such as the long-sought intermediate-mass black holes. Israel
et al.
observed a ULX in the nearby galaxy NGC 5907 and found that it is instead a neutron star. The spinning neutron star is accreting material so fast that its spin period is quickly accelerating. The only way that it can consume enough material to explain these properties is if it has a strong multipolar magnetic field.

Science
, this issue p.
817
New connections: New targets for fighting hepatic steatosis
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: February 2017

Insight into the signaling pathways that regulate de novo lipogenesis may lead to new treatments for hepatic steatosis.
Protocol for the development of a core domain set for hidradenitis suppurativa trial outcomes
Authors: Thorlacius Linnea , Ingram John R , Garg Amit , Villumsen Bente , Esmann Solveig , Kirby Joslyn S , Gottlieb Alice B , Merola Joseph F , Dellavalle Robert , Christensen Robin , Jemec Gregor B E
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) should have well-defined primary and secondary outcomes to answer questions generated by the main hypotheses. However, for the chronic, inflammatory skin disease hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), the reported outcome measures are numerous and diverse. A recent systematic review found a total of 30 outcome measure instruments in 12 RCTs. This use of a broad range of outcome measures can increase difficulties in interpretation and comparison of results and may potentially obstruct appropriate evidence synthesis by causing reporting bias. One strategy for dealing with these problems is to develop a core outcome set (COS). A COS is a list of outcomes that are meant as mandatory and should be measured and reported in all clinical trials. The aim of this study is to develop a COS for the management of HS.

Method and analysis

An international steering group of researchers, clinicians and a patient research partner will guide the COS development. 6 stakeholder groups are involved: patients, dermatologists, surgeons, nurses, industry representatives and drug regulatory authorities. A 1:1 ratio of patients:healthcare professionals is aimed for. The initial list of candidate items will be obtained by combining three data sets: (1) a systematic review of the literature, (2) US and Danish qualitative interview studies involving patients with HS and (3) an online healthcare professional (HCP) item generation survey. To reach consensus on the COS, 4 anonymous online Delphi rounds are then planned together with 2 face-to-face consensus meetings (1 in Europe and 1 in the USA) to ensure global representation.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will be performed according to the Helsinki declaration. All results from the study, including inconclusive or negative results, will be published in peer-reviewed indexed journals. The study will involve different stakeholder groups to ensure that the developed COS will be suitable and well accepted.
Toxin-positive Clostridium difficile latently infect mouse colonies and protect against highly pathogenic C. difficile
Authors: Etienne-Mesmin Lucie , Chassaing Benoit , Adekunle Oluwaseyi , Mattei Lisa M , Bushman Frederic D , Gewirtz Andrew T
Published: February 2017

Objective

Clostridium difficile is a toxin-producing bacterium and a leading cause of antibiotic-associated disease. The ability of C. difficile to form spores and infect antibiotic-treated persons at low multiplicity of infection (MOI) underlies its large disease burden. However, C. difficile-induced disease might also result from long-harboured C. difficile that blooms in individuals administered antibiotics.

Design

Mice purchased from multiple vendors and repeatedly testing negative for this pathogen by quantitative PCR bloomed C. difficile following antibiotic treatment. This endogenous C. difficile strain, herein termed LEM1, which formed spores and produced toxin, was compared with highly pathogenic C. difficile strain VPI10463.

Results

Whole-genome sequencing revealed that LEM1 and VPI10463 shared 95% of their genes, including all known virulence genes. In contrast to VPI10463, LEM1 did not induce overt disease when administered to antibiotic-treated or germ-free mice, even at high doses. Rather, blooms of LEM1 correlated with survival following VPI10463 inoculation, and exogenous administration of LEM1 before or shortly following VPI10463 inoculation prevented C. difficile-induced death. Accordingly, despite similar growth properties in vitro, LEM1 strongly outcompeted VPI10463 in mice even at 100-fold lower inocula.

Conclusions

These results highlight the difficulty of determining whether individual cases of C. difficile infection resulted from a bloom of endogenous C. difficile or a new exposure to this pathogen. In addition to impacting the design of studies using mouse models of C. difficile-induced disease, this study identified, isolated and characterised an endogenous murine spore-forming C. difficile strain able to decrease colonisation, associated disease and death induced by a pathogenic C. difficile strain.
Investigation of CeTi2O6- and CaZrTi2O7-containing glass–ceramic composite materials
Authors: Paknahad Elham , Grosvenor Andrew P.
Published: February 2017

Glass–ceramic composite materials are being investigated for numerous applications (i.e., textile, energy storage, nuclear waste immobilization applications, etc.) due to the chemical durability and flexibility of these materials. Borosilicate and Fe–Al–borosilicate glass–ceramic composites containing brannerite (CeTi2O6) or zirconolite (CaZrTi2O7) crystallites were synthesized at different annealing temperatures. The objective of this study was to understand the interaction of brannerite or zirconolite-type crystallites within the glass matrix and to investigate how the local structure of these composite materials changed with changing synthesis conditions. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Backscattered electron (BSE) microprobe images have been used to study how the ceramic crystallites dispersed in the glass matrix. X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) spectra were also collected from all glass–ceramic composite materials. Examination of Ti K-, Ce L3-, Zr K-, Si L2,3-, Fe K-, and Al L2,3-edge XANES spectra from the glass–ceramic composites have shown that the annealing temperature, glass composition, and the loading of the ceramic crystallites in the glass matrix can affect the local environment of the glass–ceramic composite materials. A comparison of the glass–ceramic composites containing brannerite or zirconolite crystallites has shown that similar changes in the long range and local structure of these composite materials occur when the synthesis conditions to form these materials or the composition are changed.
Experience on bringing together “career and family”
Authors: Pradhan Nilam Shrestha
Published: February 2017

Through this paper we get a glimpse into the life of a woman physicist who has struggled for most of her life to bring together her career and her family in a society rife with gender bias and stereotyping.
State Complexity of Regular Tree Languages for Tree Matching
Authors: Ko Sang-Ki , Lee Ha-Rim , Han Yo-Sub
Published: February 2017

We study the state complexity of regular tree languages for tree matching problem. Given a tree t and a set of pattern trees L, we can decide whether or not there exists a subtree occurrence of trees in L from the tree t by considering the new language L′ which accepts all trees containing trees in L as subtrees. We consider the case when we are given a set of pattern trees as a regular tree language and investigate the state complexity. Based on the sequential and parallel tree concatenation, we define three types of tree languages for deciding the existence of different types of subtree occurrences. We also study the deterministic top-down state complexity of path-closed languages for the same problem.
High-Level Implementation of a Chaotic and AES Based Crypto-System
Authors: Sbiaa Fatma , Kotel Sonia , Zeghid Medien , Tourki Rached , Machhout Mohsen , Baganne Adel
Published: February 2017

Given the increasing complexity of cryptographic devices, testing their security level against existing attacks requires a fast simulation environment. SystemC is a standard language that is widely used for the modeling and the verification of complex systems. It is a promising candidate in Electronic System Level (ESL) which allows models to reach higher simulation speed. Accordingly, the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is one of the most known block ciphers. It is widely used in various applications in order to secure the sensitive data. It is considered to be secure. Still, some issues lie in the used key and the S-Box. This paper presents a SystemC implementation of a chaos-based crypto-processor for the AES algorithm. The design of the proposed architecture is studied using the SystemC tools. The proposed correction approach exploits the chaos theory properties to cope with the defaulting parameters of the AES algorithm. Detailed experimental results are given in order to evaluate the security level and the performance criteria. In fact, the proposed crypto-system presents numerous interesting features, including a high security level, a pixel distributing uniformity, a sufficiently large key-space with improved key sensitivity, and an acceptable speed.
GOOD DEAL BOUNDS WITH CONVEX CONSTRAINTS
Authors: ARAI TAKUJI
Published: February 2017

We investigate the structure of good deal bounds, which are subintervals of a no-arbitrage pricing bound, for financial market models with convex constraints as an extension of Arai & Fukasawa (2014). The upper and lower bounds of a good deal bound are naturally described by a convex risk measure. We call such a risk measure a good deal valuation; and study its properties. We also discuss superhedging cost and Fundamental Theorem of Asset Pricing for convex constrained markets.
CLIMATE, CRIME, AND SUICIDE: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM JAPAN
Authors: TAKAHASHI RYO
Published: February 2017

The relationship between climate change and violent behavior has been well documented in previous studies. Violence has two dimensions: outward violence (i.e., crime) and inward violence (i.e., suicide). To our knowledge, rigorous empirical studies have not been performed to investigate how climate change affects both criminal and suicidal behavior. This study aims to estimate the effects of climate change on crime and suicide in Japan by using prefecture-level monthly panel data on climate, crime, and suicide between 2009 and 2015. Even after controlling for prefecture, yearly, and monthly effects, we found that many climate factors affected both crime and suicide in Japan. In particular, more aggressive behavior and an increased number of suicides were observed when the average temperature increased. Furthermore, we predicted how changes in the climate of Japan will affect future patterns of criminal and suicidal behavior based on two climate change scenarios.
Loss of macrophage fatty acid oxidation does not potentiate systemic metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Gonzalez-Hurtado Elsie , Lee Jieun , Choi Joseph , Selen Alpergin Ebru S. , Collins Samuel L. , Horton Maureen R. , Wolfgang Michael J.
Published: February 2017

Fatty acid oxidation in macrophages has been suggested to play a causative role in high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction, particularly in the etiology of adipose-driven insulin resistance. To understand the contribution of macrophage fatty acid oxidation directly to metabolic dysfunction in high-fat diet-induced obesity, we generated mice with a myeloid-specific knockout of carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT2 Mϕ-KO), an obligate step in mitochondrial long-chain fatty acid oxidation. While fatty acid oxidation was clearly induced upon IL-4 stimulation, fatty acid oxidation-deficient CPT2 Mϕ-KO bone marrow-derived macrophages displayed canonical markers of M2 polarization following IL-4 stimulation in vitro. In addition, loss of macrophage fatty acid oxidation in vivo did not alter the progression of high-fat diet-induced obesity, inflammation, macrophage polarization, oxidative stress, or glucose intolerance. These data suggest that although IL-4-stimulated alternatively activated macrophages upregulate fatty acid oxidation, fatty acid oxidation is dispensable for macrophage polarization and high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction. Macrophage fatty acid oxidation likely plays a correlative, rather than causative, role in systemic metabolic dysfunction.
HMGB1 and Histones Play a Significant Role in Inducing Systemic Inflammation and Multiple Organ Dysfunctions in Severe Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Yang Runkuan , Tenhunen Jyrki , Tonnessen Tor Inge
Published: February 2017

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) starts as a local inflammation of pancreatic tissue that induces the development of multiple extrapancreatic organs dysfunction; however, the underlying mechanisms are still not clear. Ischemia-reperfusion, circulating inflammatory cytokines, and possible bile cytokines significantly contribute to gut mucosal injury and intestinal bacterial translocation (BT) during SAP. Circulating HMGB1 level is significantly increased in SAP patients and HMGB1 is an important factor that mediates (at least partly) gut BT during SAP. Gut BT plays a critical role in triggering/inducing systemic inflammation/sepsis in critical illness, and profound systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) can lead to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) during SAP, and systemic inflammation with multiorgan dysfunction is the cause of death in experimental SAP. Therefore, HMGB1 is an important factor that links gut BT and systemic inflammation. Furthermore, HMGB1 significantly contributes to multiple organ injuries. The SAP patients also have significantly increased circulating histones and cell-free DNAs levels, which can reflect the disease severity and contribute to multiple organ injuries in SAP. Hepatic Kupffer cells (KCs) are the predominant source of circulating inflammatory cytokines in SAP, and new evidence indicates that hepatocyte is another important source of circulating HMGB1 in SAP; therefore, treating the liver injury is important in SAP.
Overview of Celiac Disease in Russia: Regional Data and Estimated Prevalence
Authors: Savvateeva Lyudmila V. , Erdes Svetlana I. , Antishin Anton S. , Zamyatnin Andrey A.
Published: February 2017

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of dietary gluten from some cereals mainly in individuals carrying the HLA-DQ2 and/or HLA-DQ8 haplotypes. As an autoimmune disease, CD is manifested in the small intestine in the form of a progressive and reversible inflammatory lesion due to immune response to self-antigens. Indeed, CD is one of the most challenging medicosocial problems in current gastroenterology. At present, the global CD prevalence is estimated at approximately 1% based on data sent from different locations and available CD screening strategies used. However, it is impossible to estimate global CD prevalence without all the data from the world, including Russia. In this review, we summarize the data on the incidence and prevalence of CD across geographically distinct regions of Russia, which are mostly present in local Russian scientific sources. Our conclusion is that the situation of CD prevalence in Russia is higher than is commonly believed and follows global tendencies that correspond to the epidemiologic situation in Europe, America, and Southwest Asia.
Numerical Simulation for 2D Sedimentation Model by an Upwind Discontinuous Galerkin Procedure
Authors: Jian JinFeng , Chen HuanZhen , Shi BaoHai
Published: February 2017

We reformulate the mathematical model for the 2D sedimentation in an estuary as a coupled nonlinear differential system. Combining the mass‐conservation character of the discontinuous Galerkin method and the jump‐capturing property of Lesaint‐Raviart upwind technique, we design an upwind discontinuous Galerkin finite element method, which obeys the local mass conservation and possesses good stability. Our theoretical analysis shows that there exists a unique solution to the numerical procedure and the discrete solution permits convergence rate. Numerical experiments are conducted to verify our theoretical findings. This may provide a theoretical principle for better understanding of the mechanism and morphological characters of sedimentation at estuaries.
Spontaneous Remission of an Untreated, MYC and BCL2 Coexpressing, High-Grade B-Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Potts D. Alan , Fromm Jonathan R. , Gopal Ajay K. , Cassaday Ryan D.
Published: February 2017

Non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) are a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies typically treated with multiagent chemotherapy. Rarely, spontaneous remissions can be observed, particularly in more indolent subtypes. The prognosis of aggressive NHL can be predicted using clinical and histopathologic factors. In aggressive B-cell NHL, the importance of MYC and BCL2 proto-oncogene coexpression (as assessed by immunohistochemistry) and high-grade histologic features are particularly noteworthy. We report a unique case of spontaneous remission in a patient with an aggressive B-cell NHL which harbored high-risk histopathologic features, including MYC protein expression at 70–80%, BCL2 protein expression, and morphologic features suggestive of high-grade B-cell lymphoma, NOS (formerly B-cell lymphoma unclassifiable with features intermediate between diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma [BCLU]). After undergoing a biopsy to confirm this diagnosis, he opted to forego curative-intent chemotherapy. The single, yet relatively large area of involvement noted on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography steadily resolved on subsequent follow-up studies. He remained without evidence of recurrence one year later, having never received treatment. This case emphasizes the potential for spontaneous remission in NHL and demonstrates that this phenomenon can be observed despite contemporary high-risk histopathologic features.
Strongyloides Hyperinfection in a Renal Transplant Patient: Always Be on the Lookout
Authors: Mazhar Murtaza , Ali Ijlal Akbar , Agudelo Higuita Nelson Iván
Published: February 2017

We present a case of a 71-year-old Vietnamese man with chronic kidney disease secondary to adult polycystic kidney disease. He had been a prisoner of war before undergoing a successful cadaveric renal transplant in the United States. He presented to clinic one year after the transplant with gross hematuria, productive cough, intermittent chills, and weight loss. Long standing peripheral eosinophilia of 600–1200/μL triggered further evaluation. A wet mount of stool revealedStrongyloides stercoralislarvae. A computed tomography (CT) of chest showed findings suggestive of extension of the infection to the lungs. The patient was treated with a three-week course of ivermectin with complete resolution of signs, symptoms, peripheral eosinophilia, and the positive IgG serology. Strongyloides infection in renal transplant patient is very rare and often presents with hyperinfection, associated with high mortality rates. The American Transplant Society recommends pretransplant screening with stool examination andStrongyloides stercoralisantibody in recipients and donors from endemic areas or with eosinophilia. It is imperative that healthcare professionals involved in the care of these individuals be cognizant of these recommendations as it is a very preventable and treatable entity.
High Frequency InGaAs MOSFET with Nitride Sidewall Design for Low Power Application
Authors: Mo Jiongjiong , Chen Hua , Wang Zhiyu , Yu Faxin
Published: February 2017

InxGa1-xAsdevices have been widely researched for low power high frequency applications due to the outstanding electron mobility and small bandgap of the materials. Regrown source/drain technology is highly appreciated in InGaAs MOSFET, since it is able to reduce the thermal budget induced by ion implantation, as well as reduce the source/drain resistance. However, regrown source/drain technology has problems such as high parasitic capacitance and high electric field at gate edge towards the drain side, which will lead to large drain leakage current and compromise the frequency performance. To alleviate the drain leakage current problem for low power applications and to improve the high frequency performance, a novel Si3N4sidewall structure was introduced to the InGaAs MOSFET. Device simulation was carried out with different newly proposed sidewall designs. The results showed that both the drain leakage current and the source/drain parasitic capacitance were reduced by applying Si3N4sidewall together with InP extended layer in InGaAs MOSFET. The simulation results also suggested that the newly created “recessed” sidewall was able to bring about the most frequency favorable characteristic with no current sacrifice.
Bayesian Nonparametric Model for Estimating Multistate Travel Time Distribution
Authors: Kidando Emmanuel , Moses Ren , Ozguven Eren E. , Sando Thobias
Published: February 2017

Multistate models, that is, models with more than two distributions, are preferred over single-state probability models in modeling the distribution of travel time. Literature review indicated that the finite multistate modeling of travel time using lognormal distribution is superior to other probability functions. In this study, we extend the finite multistate lognormal model of estimating the travel time distribution to unbounded lognormal distribution. In particular, a nonparametric Dirichlet Process Mixture Model (DPMM) with stick-breaking process representation was used. The strength of the DPMM is that it can choose the number of components dynamically as part of the algorithm during parameter estimation. To reduce computational complexity, the modeling process was limited to a maximum of six components. Then, the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling technique was employed to estimate the parameters’ posterior distribution. Speed data from nine links of a freeway corridor, aggregated on a 5-minute basis, were used to calculate the corridor travel time. The results demonstrated that this model offers significant flexibility in modeling to account for complex mixture distributions of the travel time without specifying the number of components. The DPMM modeling further revealed that freeway travel time is characterized by multistate or single-state models depending on the inclusion of onset and offset of congestion periods.
Parallelizing Gene Expression Programming Algorithm in Enabling Large-Scale Classification
Authors: Xu Lixiong , Huang Yuan , Shen Xiaodong , Liu Yang
Published: February 2017

As one of the most effective function mining algorithms, Gene Expression Programming (GEP) algorithm has been widely used in classification, pattern recognition, prediction, and other research fields. Based on the self-evolution, GEP is able to mine an optimal function for dealing with further complicated tasks. However, in big data researches, GEP encounters low efficiency issue due to its long time mining processes. To improve the efficiency of GEP in big data researches especially for processing large-scale classification tasks, this paper presents a parallelized GEP algorithm using MapReduce computing model. The experimental results show that the presented algorithm is scalable and efficient for processing large-scale classification tasks.
Growth Profile and Its Association with Nutrient Intake and Dietary Patterns among Children and Adolescents in Hail Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshammari Eyad , Suneetha Epuru , Adnan Mohd , Khan Saif , Alazzeh Awfa
Published: February 2017

Hail region of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has the highest adult obesity rates in the entire kingdom and limited information is available about the prevalence and patterns of growth markers. Therefore, it is important to monitor the growth trends to implement effective public health preventive strategies for the region. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of growth profile patterns (stunting, wasting, underweight, and overweight) and its associations with nutrient intake and dietary patterns among children and adolescents. A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 1420 children and adolescents (2–18 years), selected using a multistage stratified random-sampling technique representing both female and male schools from Hail region, KSA. Growth profile z-scores were generated using 2006 and 2007 WHO growth standards. The overall prevalence of 4.73% moderate and 1.54% severe underweight; 6.65% moderate and 2.59% severe stunting; 6.34% moderate and 2.55% severe wasting was present in the study population. Stunting decreased as age progressed with concurrent increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. There was a significantly higher prevalence of overweight (18.55% versus 23.05%; P<0.001) and obesity (8.7% versus 13.85%; P<0.001) in adolescents than in school-age children with higher prevalence in females as compared to males. Both stunted and overweight/obesity groups had significantly lower mean intakes for critical micronutrients necessary for growth as compared to normal children.
Sex Differences in the Effect of Type 2 Diabetes on Major Cardiovascular Diseases: Results from a Population-Based Study in Italy
Authors: Ballotari Paola , Venturelli Francesco , Greci Marina , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Manicardi Valeria
Published: February 2017

The aim of the study is to assess sex difference in association between type 2 diabetes and incidence of major cardiovascular events, that is, myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure, using information retrieved by diabetes register. The inhabitants of Reggio Emilia (Italy) aged 30–84 were followed during 2012–2014. Incidence rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using multivariate Poisson model. The age- and sex-specific event rates were graphed. Subjects with type 2 diabetes had an excess risk compared to their counterparts without diabetes for all the three major cardiovascular events. The excess risk is similar in women and men for stroke (1.8 times) and heart failure (2.7 times), while for myocardial infarction, the excess risk in women is greater than the one observed in men (IRR 2.58, 95% CI 2.22–3.00 and IRR 1.78, 95% CI 1.60–2.00, resp.;Pof interaction<0.0001). Women had always a lesser risk than men, but in case of myocardial infarction, the women with type 2 diabetes lost part of advantage gained by women free of diabetes (IRR 0.61, 95% CI 0.53–0.72 and IRR 0.36, 95% CI 0.33–0.39, resp.). In women with type 2 diabetes, the risk of major cardiovascular events is anticipated by 20–30 years, while in men it is by 15–20.
Parametric Study to Improve Subpixel Accuracy of Nitric Oxide Tagging Velocimetry with Image Preprocessing
Authors: Vedula Ravi Teja , Mittal Mayank , Schock Harold
Published: February 2017

Biacetyl phosphorescence has been the commonly used molecular tagging velocimetry (MTV) technique to investigate in-cylinder flow evolution and cycle-to-cycle variations in an optical engine. As the phosphorescence of biacetyl tracer deteriorates in the presence of oxygen, nitrogen was adopted as the working medium in the past. Recently, nitrous oxide MTV technique was employed to measure the velocity profile of an air jet. The authors here plan to investigate the potential application of this technique for engine flow studies. A possible experimental setup for this task indicated different permutations of image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and laser line width. In the current work, a numerical analysis is performed to study the effect of these two factors on displacement error in MTV image processing. Also, several image filtering techniques were evaluated and the performance of selected filters was analyzed in terms of enhancing the image quality and minimizing displacement errors. The flow displacement error without image preprocessing was observed to be inversely proportional to SNR and directly proportional to laser line width. The mean filter resulted in the smallest errors for line widths smaller than 9 pixels. The effect of filter size on subpixel accuracy showed that error levels increased as the filter size increased.
Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in Labor
Authors: Berdai Mohamed Adnane , Benlamkadem Said , Labib Smael , Harandou Mustapha
Published: February 2017

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema also known as Hamman’s syndrome is a very rare complication of labor that is often related to the valsalva maneuver during the labor. In most case, Hamman’s syndrome is a self-limiting condition, rarely complicated unless there are underlying respiratory diseases. Chest X-ray can be a useful early diagnostic technique in severe clinical presentation. We report an uneventful pregnancy in a primigravid parturient, which was complicated in the late second stage of labor by the development of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and mild pneumothorax. Spontaneous recovery occurred after four days of conservative management. This condition shows the major interest of labor analgesia especially locoregional techniques.