bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Order statistics for correlated random variables and its application to at-speed testing
Authors: Shi Yiyu , Xiong Jinjun , Zolotov Vladimir , Visweswariah Chandu
Published: July 2013

Although order statistics have been studied for several decades, most of the results are based on the assumption of independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) random variables. In the literature, how to compute the
m
th order statistics of
n
correlated random variables is still a problem. This article proposes a recursive algorithm based on statistical min/max operations to compute order statistics for general correlated and not necessarily identically distributed random variables. The algorithm has an O(
mn
) time complexity and O(
m + n
) space complexity. A binary tree-based data structure is further developed to allow selective update of the order statistics with O(

nm
2

) time. As a vehicle to demonstrate the algorithm, we apply it to the path selection algorithm in at-speed testing. A novel metric
multilayer process space coverage metric
is proposed to quantitatively gauge the quality of path selection. We then show that such a metric is directly linked to the order statistics, and our recursive algorithm can thus be applied. By employing a branch-and-bound path selection algorithm with these techniques, this article shows that selecting an optimal set of paths for a multimillion-gate design can be performed efficiently. Compared to the state of the art, experimental results show both the efficiency of our algorithms and better quality of our path selection.
Best practices on the move
Authors: Nicolaou Alex
Published: July 2013

Which practices should be modified or avoided altogether by developers for the mobile Web?
Spectral sparsification of graphs
Authors: Batson Joshua , Spielman Daniel A. , Srivastava Nikhil , Teng Shang-Hua
Published: July 2013

Graph sparsification is the approximation of an arbitrary graph by a sparse graph.

We explain what it means for one graph to be a spectral approximation of another and review the development of algorithms for spectral sparsification. In addition to being an interesting concept, spectral sparsification has been an important tool in the design of nearly linear-time algorithms for solving systems of linear equations in symmetric, diagonally dominant matrices. The fast solution of these linear systems has already led to breakthrough results in combinatorial optimization, including a faster algorithm for finding approximate maximum flows and minimum cuts in an undirected network.
Investigating User Behavior for Authentication Methods
Authors: Ma Yao , Feng Jinjuan , Kumin Libby , Lazar Jonathan
Published: July 2013

A wide variety of authentication mechanisms have been designed to ensure information security. Individuals with cognitive disabilities depend on computers and the Internet for a variety of tasks and, therefore, use authentication applications on an everyday basis. However, although there have been numerous studies investigating password usage by neurotypical users, there have been no research studies conducted to examine the use of authentication methods by individuals with cognitive disabilities. In this article, we systematically investigate how individuals with cognitive disabilities, specifically Down syndrome (DS), interact with various user authentication mechanisms. This research provides the first benchmark data on the performance of individuals with DS when using multiple authentication methods. It confirms that individuals with DS are capable of using the traditional alphanumeric passwords with reasonable efficiency. The passwords created by individuals with DS are of similar strength to those created by neurotypical people. Graphic passwords are not as effective as traditional alphanumeric and mnemonic passwords regarding efficiency, and are less preferred by the participants. Based on the findings of the study, we propose design guidelines that aim to assist both practitioners and researchers in designing and developing effective authentication applications that fit the specific needs of individuals with DS.
Hard Functions for Low-Degree Polynomials over Prime Fields
Authors: Bogdanov Andrej , Kawachi Akinori , Tanaka Hidetoki
Published: July 2013

In this article, we present a new hardness amplification for low-degree polynomials over
prime fields
, namely, we prove that if some function is mildly hard to approximate by any low-degree polynomials then the sum of independent copies of the function is very hard to approximate by them. This result generalizes the XOR lemma for low-degree polynomials over the binary field given by Viola and Wigderson [2008]. The main technical contribution is the analysis of the Gowers norm over prime fields. For the analysis, we discuss a generalized low-degree test, which we call the
Gowers test
, for polynomials over prime fields, which is a natural generalization of that over the binary field given by Alon et al. [2003]. This Gowers test provides a new technique to analyze the Gowers norm over prime fields. Actually, the rejection probability of the Gowers test can be analyzed in the framework of Kaufman and Sudan [2008]. However, our analysis is self-contained and quantitatively better. By using our argument, we also prove the hardness of modulo functions for low-degree polynomials over prime fields.
Our troubles with Linux Kernel upgrades and why you should care
Authors: Harji Ashif S. , Buhr Peter A. , Brecht Tim
Published: July 2013

Linux and other open-source Unix variants (and their distributors) provide researchers with full-fledged operating systems that are widely used. However, due to their complexity and rapid development, care should be exercised when using these operating systems for performance experiments, especially in systems research. In particular, the size and continual evolution of the Linux code-base makes it difficult to understand, and as a result, decipher and explain the reasons for performance improvements. In addition, the rapid kernel development cycle means that experimental results can be viewed as out of date, or meaningless, very quickly. We demonstrate that this viewpoint is incorrect because kernel changes can and have introduced both bugs and performance degradations.

This paper describes some of our experiences using Linux and FreeBSD as platforms for conducting performance evaluations and some performance regressions we have found. Our results show, these performance regressions can be serious (e.g., repeating identical experiments results in large variability in results) and long lived despite having a large negative effect on performance (one problem was present for more than 3 years). Based on these experiences, we argue: it is sometimes reasonable to use an older kernel version, experimental results need careful analysis to explain why a performance effect occurs, and publishing papers validating prior research is essential.
Hsc70 negatively regulates epithelial sodium channel trafficking at multiple sites in epithelial cells
Authors: Chanoux Rebecca A. , Shubin Calla B. , Robay Amal , Suaud Laurence , Rubenstein Ronald C.
Published: July 2013

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) plays an important role in homeostasis of blood pressure and of the airway surface liquid, and excess function of ENaC results in refractory hypertension (in Liddle's syndrome) and impaired mucociliary clearance (in cystic fibrosis). The regulation of ENaC by molecular chaperones, such as the 70-kDa heat shock protein Hsc70, is not completely understood. Our previously published data suggest that Hsc70 negatively affects ENaC activity and surface expression in Xenopus oocytes; here we investigate the mechanism by which Hsc70 acts on ENaC in epithelial cells. In Madin-Darby canine kidney cells stably expressing epitope-tagged αβγ-ENaC and with tetracycline-inducible overexpression of Hsc70, treatment with 5 μg/ml doxycycline increased total Hsc70 expression 20%. This increase in Hsc70 expression led to a decrease in ENaC activity and surface expression that corresponded to an increased rate of functional ENaC retrieval from the cell surface. In addition, Hsc70 overexpression decreased the association of newly synthesized ENaC subunits. These data support the hypothesis that Hsc70 inhibits ENaC functional expression at the apical surface of epithelia by regulating ENaC biogenesis and ENaC trafficking at the cell surface.
Evolution and cell physiology. 2. The evolution of cell signaling: from mitochondria to Metazoa
Authors: Blackstone Neil W.
Published: July 2013

The history of life is a history of levels-of-selection transitions. Each transition requires mechanisms that mediate conflict among the lower-level units. In the origins of multicellular eukaryotes, cell signaling is one such mechanism. The roots of cell signaling, however, may extend to the previous major transition, the origin of eukaryotes. Energy-converting protomitochondria within a larger cell allowed eukaryotes to transcend the surface-to-volume constraints inherent in the design of prokaryotes. At the same time, however, protomitochondria can selfishly allocate energy to their own replication. Metabolic signaling may have mediated this principal conflict in several ways. Variation of the protomitochondria was constrained by stoichiometry and strong metabolic demand (state 3) exerted by the protoeukaryote. Variation among protoeukaryotes was increased by the sexual stage of the life cycle, triggered by weak metabolic demand (state 4), resulting in stochastic allocation of protomitochondria to daughter cells. Coupled with selection, many selfish protomitochondria could thus be removed from the population. Hence, regulation of states 3 and 4, as, for instance, provided by the CO2/soluble adenylyl cyclase/cAMP pathway in mitochondria, was critical for conflict mediation. Subsequently, as multicellular eukaryotes evolved, metabolic signaling pathways employed by eukaryotes to mediate conflict within cells could now be co-opted into conflict mediation between cells. For example, in some fungi, the CO2/soluble adenylyl cyclase/cAMP pathway regulates the transition from yeast to forms with hyphae. In animals, this pathway regulates the maturation of sperm. While the particular features (sperm and hyphae) are distinct, both may involve between-cell conflicts that required mediation.
Diabetes impairs the interactions between long-term hematopoietic stem cells and osteopontin-positive cells in the endosteal niche of mouse bone marrow
Authors: Chiba Hironori , Ataka Koji , Iba Kousuke , Nagaishi Kanna , Yamashita Toshihiko , Fujimiya Mineko
Published: July 2013

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are maintained, and their division/proliferation and quiescence are regulated in the microenvironments, niches, in the bone marrow. Although diabetes is known to induce abnormalities in HSC mobilization and proliferation through chemokine and chemokine receptors, little is known about the interaction between long-term HSCs (LT-HSCs) and osteopontin-positive (OPN) cells in endosteal niche. To examine this interaction, LT-HSCs and OPN cells were isolated from streptozotocin-induced diabetic and nondiabetic mice. In diabetic mice, we observed a reduction in the number of LT-HSCs and OPN cells and impaired expression of Tie2, β-catenin, and N-cadherin on LT-HSCs and β1-integrin, β-catenin, angiopoietin-1, and CXCL12 on OPN cells. In an in vitro coculture system, LT-HSCs isolated from nondiabetic mice exposed to diabetic OPN cells showed abnormal mRNA expression levels of Tie2 and N-cadherin. Conversely, in LT-HSCs derived from diabetic mice exposed to nondiabetic OPN cells, the decreased mRNA expressions of Tie2, β-catenin, and N-cadherin were restored to normal levels. The effects of diabetic or nondiabetic OPN cells on LT-HSCs shown in this coculture system were confirmed by the coinjection of LT-HSCs and OPN cells into bone marrow of irradiated nondiabetic mice. Our results provide new insight into the treatment of diabetes-induced LT-HSC abnormalities and suggest that the replacement of OPN cells may represent a novel treatment strategy.
Effects of an intensive short-term diet and exercise intervention: comparison between normal-weight and obese children
Authors: Roberts Christian K. , Izadpanah Ali , Angadi Siddhartha S. , Barnard R. James
Published: July 2013

Lifestyle intervention programs currently emphasize weight loss secondary to obesity as the primary determinant of phenotypic changes. We examined whether the effects of a short-term lifestyle intervention program differ in normal-weight versus overweight/obese children. Nineteen overweight/obese (O; BMI = 33.6 ± 1.9 kg/m2) and 14 normal-weight (N; BMI = 19.9 ± 1.5 kg/m2) children participated in a 2-wk program consisting of an ad libitum high-fiber, low-fat diet and daily exercise (2–2.5 h). Fasting serum samples were taken pre- and postintervention for determination of lipids, glucose homeostasis, inflammatory cytokines, and adipokines. Only the O group lost weight (3.9%) but remained overweight/obese (32.3 ± 1.9 kg/m2). Both groups exhibited significant intervention-induced decreases ( P < 0.05) in serum insulin (N: 52.5% vs. O: 28.1%; between groups, P = 0.38), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (N: 53.1% vs. O: 28.4%, P = 0.43), leptin (N: 69.3% vs. O: 44.1%, P = 0.10), amylin (N: 28.7% vs. O: 26.1%, P = 0.80), resistin (N: 40.0% vs. O: 35.1%, P = 0.99), plasminogen activator-inhibitor-1 (N: 30.8% vs. O: 25.6%, P = 0.59), IL-6 (N: 58.8% vs. O: 48.5%, P = 0.78), IL-8 (N: 46.0% vs. O: 42.2%, P = 0.49), and TNFα (N: 45.8% vs. O: 40.8%, P = 0.99). No associations between indices of weight change and phenotypic changes were noted. A short-term, intensive lifestyle modification program is effective in ameliorating metabolic risk factors in N and O children. These results suggest that obesity per se was not the primary driver of the phenotypes noted and that dietary intake and physical inactivity induce the phenotypic abnormalities. These data may have implications for the weight loss-independent management of cardiometabolic risk in pediatric populations.
Continuous theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation reduces resting state connectivity between visual areas
Authors: Rahnev Dobromir , Kok Peter , Munneke Moniek , Bahdo Linda , de Lange Floris P. , Lau Hakwan
Published: July 2013

Continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) is a technique that allows for altering of brain activity. Research to date has focused on the effect of cTBS on the target area, but less is known about its effects on the resting state functional connectivity between different brain regions. We investigated this issue by applying cTBS to the occipital cortex and probing its influence in retinotopically defined regions in early visual cortex using functional MRI. We found that occipital cTBS reliably decreased the resting state functional connectivity (i.e., the correlation of spontaneous activity) between regions of the early visual cortex. In the context of a perceptual task, such an effect could mean that cTBS affects the strength of the perceptual signal, its variability, or both. We investigated this issue in a second experiment in which subjects performed a perceptual discrimination task and indicated their level of certainty on each trial. The results showed that occipital cTBS decreased both subjects' accuracy and confidence. Signal detection modeling suggested that these impairments resulted primarily from a decreased strength of the perceptual signal, with a nonsignificant trend of a decrease in signal variability. We discuss the implications of these experiments for understanding the mechanisms by which cTBS influences brain activity and perceptual processes.
The spread of attention across features of a surface
Authors: Ernst Zachary Raymond , Boynton Geoffrey M. , Jazayeri Mehrdad
Published: July 2013

Contrasting theories of visual attention have emphasized selection by spatial location, individual features, and whole objects. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to ask whether and how attention to one feature of an object spreads to other features of the same object. Subjects viewed two spatially superimposed surfaces of random dots that were segregated by distinct color-motion conjunctions. The color and direction of motion of each surface changed smoothly and in a cyclical fashion. Subjects were required to track one feature (e.g., color) of one of the two surfaces and detect brief moments when the attended feature diverged from its smooth trajectory. To tease apart the effect of attention to individual features on the hemodynamic response, we used a frequency-tagging scheme. In this scheme, the stimulus features (color and direction of motion) are modulated periodically at distinct frequencies so that the contribution of each feature to the hemodynamics can be inferred from the harmonic response at the corresponding frequency. We found that attention to one feature (e.g., color) of one surface increased the response modulation not only to the attended feature but also to the other feature (e.g., motion) of the same surface. This attentional modulation was evident in multiple visual areas and was present as early as V1. The spread of attention to the behaviorally irrelevant features of a surface suggests that attention may automatically select all features of a single object. Thus object-based attention may be supported by an enhancement of feature-specific sensory signals in the visual cortex.
Mature Ovarian Teratoma with Carcinoid Tumor in a 28-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Petousis Stamatios , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Margioula-Siarkou Chrysoula , Traianos Alexandros , Miliaras Dimosthenis , Kamparoudis Apostolos , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Rousso David
Published: July 2013

Introduction. Coexistence of carcinoid tumor inside a mature cystic teratoma is an extremely rare phenomenon, especially in young women. We present the case of a 28-year-old woman diagnosed with a right ovarian carcinoid and treated uneventfully with conservative surgical approach.Case Report. A 28-year-old woman, gravid 0, parity 0, presented to our department for her annual gynecological examination and Pap smear test. During her examination, a mobile cystic mass was detected in the right lower abdomen. Ultrasound indicated a right ovarian mass 10.5 × 6.3 cm, confirmed by CT scan. Further investigation revealed AFP levels (1539 ng/mL). The ovarian mass was excised by laparoscopy, leaving intact the remaining right ovary. Frozen sections showed a mature cystic teratoma. However, paraffin sections revealed the presence of a small carcinoid within the teratoma’s gastric-type mucosa. The patient was set to a close followup. Nine months postoperatively, ultrasound pelvis imaging and CT scan of the abdomen as well as serum tumor markers have shown no evidence of recurrence disease.Conclusion. Despite the weak evidence, fertility spare surgical approach for women wanting to preserve their genital tract might be a reasonable option.
Injury Prevention for Ski-Area Employees: A Physiological Assessment of Lift Operators, Instructors, and Patrollers
Authors: Roberts Delia
Published: July 2013

Background. Momentary lapses in concentration contribute to workplace accidents. Given that blood glucose (BG) and hydration levels have been shown to affect vigilance, this study proposed to investigate these parameters and functional movement patterns of ski-resort workers and to determine whether an educational program to stabilize BG and hydration and encourage joint stability had an effect in decreasing occupational injuries.Methods. Seventy-five instructors, patrollers and, lift-operators at five snowsport resorts were evaluated for BG, vigilance, workload, dietary/hydration practices, and functional-movement patterns. Injury rates were tabulated before and after an educational program for nutrition and functional-movement awareness and compared to other resorts.Results. Workers showed poor stability at the lumbar spine, knee, and shoulder. BG levels were normal but variable (%CV = 14±6). Diets were high in sugar and fat and low in water and many nutrients. Medical Aid and Lost Time claims declined significantly by65.1±20.0% (confidence interval −90.0% ≤μ≤−40.2%) in resorts that used the educational program whereas four control resorts not using the program experienced increases of33.4±42.9% (confidence interval −19.7% ≤μ≤−86.7%;F[2,12] = 21.35,P<0.0001) over the same season.Conclusion. Provision of snowsport resort workers with educational programs encouraging hydration, diet to stabilize BG, and functional-movement awareness was effective in reducing worksite injuries in this population.
Effect of Antihypertensive Therapy on SCORE-Estimated Total Cardiovascular Risk: Results from an Open-Label, Multinational Investigation—The POWER Survey
Authors: De Backer Guy , Petrella Robert J. , Goudev Assen R. , Radaideh Ghazi Ahmad , Rynkiewicz Andrzej , Pathak Atul
Published: July 2013

Background.High blood pressure is a substantial risk factor for cardiovascular disease.Design & Methods.The Physicians' Observational Work on patient Education according to their vascular Risk (POWER) survey was an open-label investigation of eprosartan-based therapy (EBT) for control of high blood pressure in primary care centers in 16 countries. A prespecified element of this research was appraisal of the impact of EBT on estimated 10-year risk of a fatal cardiovascular event as determined by the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) model.Results.SCORE estimates of CVD risk were obtained at baseline from 12,718 patients in 15 countries (6504 men) and from 9577 patients at 6 months. During EBT mean (±SD) systolic/diastolic blood pressures declined from 160.2 ± 13.7/94.1 ± 9.1 mmHg to 134.5 ± 11.2/81.4 ± 7.4 mmHg. This was accompanied by a 38% reduction in mean SCORE-estimated CVD risk and an improvement in SCORE risk classification of one category or more in 3506 patients (36.6%).Conclusion.Experience in POWER affirms that (a) effective pharmacological control of blood pressure is feasible in the primary care setting and is accompanied by a reduction in total CVD risk and (b) the SCORE instrument is effective in this setting for the monitoring of total CVD risk.
Image and Imaging an Emergency Department: Expense and Benefit of Different Quality Assessment Methods
Authors: Pfortmueller Carmen Andrea , Keller Michael , Mueller Urs , Zimmermann Heinz , Exadaktylos Aristomenis Konstantinos
Published: July 2013

Introduction. In this era of high-tech medicine, it is becoming increasingly important to assess patient satisfaction. There are several methods to do so, but these differ greatly in terms of cost, time, and labour and external validity. The aim of this study is to describe and compare the structure and implementation of different methods to assess the satisfaction of patients in an emergency department.Methods. The structure and implementation of the different methods to assess patient satisfaction were evaluated on the basis of a 90-minute standardised interview.Results. We identified a total of six different methods in six different hospitals. The average number of patients assessed was 5012, with a range from 230 (M5) to 20 000 patients (M2). In four methods (M1, M3, M5, and M6), the questionnaire was composed by a specialised external institute. In two methods, the questionnaire was created by the hospital itself (M2, M4).The median response rate was 58.4% (range 9–97.8%). With a reminder, the response rate increased by 60% (M3).Conclusion. The ideal method to assess patient satisfaction in the emergency department setting is to use a patient-based, in-emergency department-based assessment of patient satisfaction, planned and guided by expert personnel.
Effectiveness of 7.5 Percent Povidone Iodine in Comparison to 1 Percent Clotrimazole with Lignocaine in the Treatment of Otomycosis
Authors: Philip Ajay , Thomas Regi , Job Anand , Sundaresan V. Rajan , Anandan Shalini , Albert Rita Ruby
Published: July 2013

Objectives. Otomycosis is a common ENT disease frequenting the tropics. Its recurrent nature poses a great challenge to the treating physician. In spite of a number of antifungals in the market, the frequent nature of this disease warrants repeated use of these drugs, contributing to drug resistance and financial burden on the rural population. Our primary aims were to evaluate the effectiveness of povidone iodine in the treatment of otomycosis and to identify the most common fungal isolate in our population. Study Design and Setting. A single blinded prospective longitudinal study was done over a period of 12 months in a tertiary referral center. 34 patients in the age group 15–70 years clinically diagnosed with otomycosis were included in this study. These individuals were divided into two groups selected randomly. One arm received 7.5% povidone iodine otic drops and the other 1% Clotrimazole and lignocaine drops. Evaluation was based on resolution of symptoms and signs after treatment. Result. Both arms showed improvements which were comparable thus suggesting the role of povidone iodine in the management of otomycosis. Conclusion. Povidone iodine is an effective antifungal in the treatment of otomycosis.
Oxidative Stress and the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Zhao Yan , Zhao Baolu
Published: July 2013

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia in the elderly. Patients with AD suffer a gradual deterioration of memory and other cognitive functions, which eventually leads to a complete incapacity and death. A complicated array of molecular events has been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. The major pathological characteristics of AD brains are the presence of senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Growing evidence has demonstrated that oxidative stress is an important factor contributing to the initiation and progression of AD. However, the mechanisms that lead to the disruption of redox balance and the sources of free radicals remain elusive. The excessive reactive oxygen species may be generated from mechanisms such as mitochondria dysfunction and/or aberrant accumulation of transition metals, while the abnormal accumulation of Abeta and tau proteins appears to promote the redox imbalance. The resulted oxidative stress has been implicated in Abeta- or tau-induced neurotoxicity. In addition, evidence has suggested that oxidative stress may augment the production and aggregation of Abeta and facilitate the phosphorylation and polymerization of tau, thus forming a vicious cycle that promotes the initiation and progression of AD.
The Reputation Evaluation Based on Optimized Hidden Markov Model in E-Commerce
Authors: Chang Liu , Ouzrout Yacine , Nongaillard Antoine , Bouras Abdelaziz , Jiliu Zhou
Published: July 2013

Nowadays, a large number of reputation systems have been deployed in practical applications or investigated in the literature to protect buyers from deception and malicious behaviors in online transactions. As an efficient Bayesian analysis tool, Hidden Markov Model (HMM) has been used into e-commerce to describe the dynamic behavior of sellers. Traditional solutions adopt Baum-Welch algorithm to train model parameters which is unstable due to its inability to find a globally optimal solution. Consequently, this paper presents a reputation evaluation mechanism based on the optimized Hidden Markov Model, which is called PSOHMM. The algorithm takes full advantage of the search mechanism in Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm to strengthen the learning ability of HMM and PSO has been modified to guarantee interval and normalization constraints in HMM. Furthermore, a simplified reputation evaluation framework based on HMM is developed and applied to analyze the specific behaviors of sellers. The simulation experiments demonstrate that the proposed PSOHMM has better performance to search optimal model parameters than BWHMM, has faster convergence speed, and is more stable than BWHMM. Compared with Average and Beta reputation evaluation mechanism, PSOHMM can reflect the behavior changes of sellers more quickly in e-commerce systems.
Phytoplankton and Eutrophication Degree Assessment of Baiyangdian Lake Wetland, China
Authors: Wang Xing , Wang Yu , Liu Lusan , Shu Jianmin , Zhu Yanzhong , Zhou Juan
Published: July 2013

Eight typical sampling sites were chosen to investigate the phytoplankton community structure and to assess the eutrophication degree of Baiyangdian Lake in 2009. Our results showed that among the total 133 species identified, Cyanophyta, Chlorophyta, and Bacillariophyta dominated the phytoplankton community. In spring, Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta were the dominant phyla, and the dominant species included Chlorella sp., Chroomonas acuta Uterm., and Microcystis incerta Lemm.; the density of the phytoplankton ranged from 496 × 104 to 6256 × 104 cells/L with an average of 2384 × 104 cells/L. However, Chlorophyta and Cyanophyta became the dominant phyla in summer, and the dominant species were Chlorella sp., Leptolyngbya valderiana Anagn., and Nephrocytium agardhianum Nageli.; the density of the phytoplankton varied from 318 × 104 to 4630 × 104 cells/L with an average of 1785 × 104 cells/L. The density of the phytoplankton has increased significantly compared to the previous investigations in 2005. The index of Carlson nutritional status (TSIM) and the dominant genus assessment indicated that the majority of Baiyangdian Lake was in eutrophic state.
Outcome of Rhabdomyosarcoma in First Year of Life: Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt
Authors: El Nadi Enas , Moussa Emad A. H. , Zekri Wael , Taha Hala , Yones Alaa , Zaghloul Mohamed Saad , El Wakeel Madeeha , Labib Rania M.
Published: July 2013

Background. Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft-tissue sarcoma in children. Fifty percent of RMS cases occur in the first 10 years of life and less commonly in infants younger than one-year old. These infants require adapted multimodality treatment approaches.Patients and Methods. We analyzed patients’ characteristics, treatment modalities, and the outcome for RMS infants treated at Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt (CCHE) between July 2007 and December 2010 and compared them to patients above one year treated on the same protocol.Results. Out of the 126 RMS treated during this period, 18 were below the age of one year. The male: female ratio was 1.25 : 1. The median age at diagnosis was 0.7 ± 0.2 years. Most of the cases (27.8%) were presented in head and neck regions. The estimated 4-years failure-free survival and overall survival for infants were 49 ± 12% and 70 ± 12%, respectively. These failure-free survival rate and overall survival rate did not differ from those for older patients (P=0.2).Conclusion. Infants with RMS are a unique group of RMS who needs special concerns in tailoring treatment in addition to concerns regarding toxicity and morbidity in infants.

Corrigendum to “Outcome of Rhabdomyosarcoma in First Year of Life: Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt”
Cu(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) Complexes of Salan-Type Ligand Containing Ester Groups: Synthesis, Characterization, Electrochemical Properties, andIn VitroBiological Activities
Authors: Jeslin Kanaga Inba P. , Annaraj B. , Thalamuthu S. , Neelakantan M. A.
Published: July 2013

A salen ligand on reduction and N-alkylation affords a novel [N2O2] chelating ligand containing ester groups [L = diethyl-2,2′-(propane-1,3-diylbis((2-hydroxy-3-methoxy benzyl)azanediyl))diacetate]. The purity of the ligand was confirmed by NMR and HPLC chromatograms. Its Cu(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized by a combination of elemental analysis, IR, NMR, UV-Vis, and mass spectral data, and thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTA). The magnetic moments, UV-Vis, and EPR spectral studies support square planar geometry around the Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions. A tetrahedral geometry is observed in four-coordinate zinc with bulky N-alkylated salan ligand. The redox properties of the copper complex were examined in DMSO by cyclic voltammetry. The voltammograms show quasireversible process. The interaction of metal complexes with CT DNA was investigated by UV-Vis absorption titration, ethidium bromide displacement assay, cyclic voltammetry methods, and agarose gel electrophoresis. The apparent binding constant values suggest moderate intercalative binding modes between the complexes and DNA. Thein vitroantioxidant and antimicrobial potentials of the synthesized compounds were also determined.
Lower Limb Ischemia: Aortoiliac Thrombosis Related to Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)—Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Toffon Arnaldo , Piovesan Raffaella , Minniti Consolato Francesco , Caruso Omar , Criscenti Paolo , Villalta Sabina , Cavallo Maurizio
Published: July 2013

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is recognized as one of the main determinants of hypercoagulable conditions. The literature reports the incidence of this syndrome in a third of patients who underwent surgery for peripheral revascularization. Antiphospholipid antibodies are divided into two categories in relation to specific diagnostic tests. The first group is called lupus anticoagulant and consists of immunoglobulins that inhibit the phospholipid dependent coagulation tests in vitro. The second group is defined by their ability to conduct the phospholipid in an ELISA test. The occurrence of thrombotic events in patients with systemic erythematosus lupus (SEL) and anticoagulant antibodies was described for the first time in 1963 by Bowie. The discovery of anti-cardiolipin antibodies in antiphospholipid syndrome is due to Harris et al. who described the syndrome. Primitive APS was consequently defined in the absence of further underlying illnesses. In this disease, arterial thrombosis occurs mainly in the brain. Peripheral arteries are affected less frequently. Thrombosis of the great vessels is reported as anecdotal.
Effect of Particle Shape on Mechanical Behaviors of Rocks: A Numerical Study Using Clumped Particle Model
Authors: Rong Guan , Liu Guang , Hou Di , Zhou Chuang-bing
Published: July 2013

Since rocks are aggregates of mineral particles, the effect of mineral microstructure on macroscopic mechanical behaviors of rocks is inneglectable. Rock samples of four different particle shapes are established in this study based on clumped particle model, and a sphericity index is used to quantify particle shape. Model parameters for simulation in PFC are obtained by triaxial compression test of quartz sandstone, and simulation of triaxial compression test is then conducted on four rock samples with different particle shapes. It is seen from the results that stress thresholds of rock samples such as crack initiation stress, crack damage stress, and peak stress decrease with the increasing of the sphericity index. The increase of sphericity leads to a drop of elastic modulus and a rise in Poisson ratio, while the decreasing sphericity usually results in the increase of cohesion and internal friction angle. Based on volume change of rock samples during simulation of triaxial compression test, variation of dilation angle with plastic strain is also studied.
A New Weak Chelator in Endodontics: Effects of Different Irrigation Regimens with Etidronate on Root Dentin Microhardness
Authors: Tartari Talita , de Almeida Rodrigues Silva e Souza Patrícia , Vila Nova de Almeida Bruno , Carrera Silva Júnior José Otávio , Facíola Pessoa Oscar , Silva e Souza Junior Mario Honorato
Published: July 2013

This study investigated the effect of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), ethylenediaminetetraacetic (EDTA), etidronic (HEBP), and citric acid (CA) associated in different irrigation regimens on root dentin microhardness. Forty-five root halves of single-rooted teeth were sectioned into thirds that were embedded in acrylic resin, polished, randomly assigned into 3 groups, and treated as follows: G1: saline solution; G2: 5% NaOCl + 18% HEBP, mixed in equal parts; and G3: 2.5% NaOCl. After measurements, the G3 samples were distributed into subgroups G4, G5, and G6, which were submitted to 17% EDTA, 10% CA and 9% HEBP, respectively. Following the new measurements, these groups received a final flush with 2.5% NaOCl, producing G7, G8, and G9. Microhardness was measured with Knoop indenter under a 25 g load for 15 seconds, before and after treatments. The data were statistically analyzed using paired Student’st-test (α<0.05) to compare values before and after treatments and analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α<0.05) to detect any differences among thirds. Except G1, all tested irrigation regimens significantly decreased the microhardness. There were no differences between root thirds before treatments, and all root thirds exhibited equal responses to same treatment. Except saline, all tested irrigation regimens reduced the root dentin microhardness.
Therapeutic Effect of the Tuber ofAlisma orientaleon Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Kim Kyun Ha , Kwun Min Jung , Choi Jun-Yong , Ahn Kyung-Seop , Oh Sei-Ryang , Lee Yong Gyu , Christman John W. , Sadikot Ruxana T. , Han Chang Woo , Joo Myungsoo
Published: July 2013

AlthoughAlisma orientale, an ethnic herb, has been prescribed for treating various diseases in Asian traditional medicine, experimental evidence to support its therapeutic effects is lacking. Here, we sought to determine whetherA. orientalehas a therapeutic effect on acute lung injury (ALI). Ethanol extract of the tuber ofA. orientale(EEAO) was prepared and fingerprinted by HPLC for its constituents. Mice received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for the induction of ALI. At 2 h after LPS treatment, mice received an intratracheal (i.t.) spraying of various amounts of EEAO to the lung. Bioluminescence imaging of transgenic NF-κB/luciferase reporter mice shows that i.t. EEAO posttreatment suppressed lung inflammation. In similar experiments with C57BL/6 mice, EEAO posttreatment significantly improved lung inflammation, as assessed by H&E staining of lung sections, counting of neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and semiquantitative RT-PCR analyses of proinflammatory cytokines and Nrf2-dependent genes in the inflamed lungs. Furthermore, EEAO posttreatment enhanced the survival of mice that received a lethal dose of LPS. Together, our results provide evidence thatA. orientalehas a therapeutic effect on ALI induced by sepsis.
AspergillusTracheobronchitis Causing Subtotal Tracheal Stenosis in a Liver Transplant Recipient
Authors: Radunz Sonia , Kirchner Carmen , Treckmann Jürgen , Paul Andreas , Saner Fuat H.
Published: July 2013

Invasive aspergillosis is recognized as one of the most significant opportunistic infections after liver transplantation. Diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in transplant recipients has been proven to be challenging, and optimal approach to the treatment of invasive aspergillosis is still controversial. We here present an unusual case ofAspergillustracheobronchitis in the setting of liver transplantation. A 47-year-old female patient with persistent dry cough after liver transplantation developed respiratory insufficiency and was readmitted to the intensive care unit 55 days after liver transplantation. A CT scan revealed subtotal tracheal stenosis; bronchoscopy was performed, and extended white mucus coverings causative of the tracheal stenosis were removed. Microbiological assessment isolatedAspergillus fumigatus. The diagnosis was obstructiveAspergillustracheobronchitis. The patient was started on a treatment of voriconazole 200 mg orally twice daily, adjusted to a trough level of 1–4 mg/L. For further airway management, a tracheal stent had to be implanted. The patient is alive and well 28 months after liver transplantation. Invasive aspergillosis should be considered a possible etiology in liver transplant patients presenting with unspecific symptoms such as persistent dry cough. Optimal strategies for improved and early diagnosis as well as prophylaxis need to be defined.
Plasma Omega-3 and Omega-6 Concentrations and Risk of Cutaneous Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas in Australian Adults
Authors: Wallingford Sarah C. , Hughes Maria Celia , Green Adèle C. , van der Pols Jolieke C.
Published: July 2013

Laboratory-based evidence suggests that omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids may affect skin photocarcinogenesis, but epidemiologic evidence is inconsistent. In 1,191 White Australian adults, we prospectively investigated associations between baseline plasma concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and cutaneous basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). Relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated on the basis of number of histologically confirmed tumors diagnosed during follow-up (1997–2007). Plasma eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations and omega-3/-6 ratio showed significant inverse associations with SCC tumors, comparing higher tertiles with the lowest, in age- and sex-adjusted models (Ptrend = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively) which weakened after adjustment for past sun exposure. Associations between EPA and SCC were stronger among participants with a history of skin cancer at baseline (n = 378; highest vs. lowest tertile: RR = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.28–0.92; Ptrend = 0.01). Total omega-6 was inversely associated with BCC tumors in multivariate models (P = 0.04; highest vs. lowest tertile: RR = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.51–0.99), and more strongly in the subgroup with past skin cancer. Linoleic and linolenic acids were also inversely associated with BCC occurrence in this subgroup. When fatty acids were analyzed as continuous variables, however, there was no evidence of any linear or nonlinear associations. This study provides some support for reduced skin cancer risk with high plasma concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but results depended on how fatty acid data were modeled. Further investigation of these associations in larger datasets is needed. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1900–5. ©2013 AACR.
Synthetic Lethal Targeting of PTEN-Deficient Cancer Cells Using Selective Disruption of Polynucleotide Kinase/Phosphatase
Authors: Mereniuk Todd R. , El Gendy Mohamed A.M. , Mendes-Pereira Ana M. , Lord Christopher J. , Ghosh Sunita , Foley Edan , Ashworth Alan , Weinfeld Michael
Published: July 2013

A recent screen of 6,961 siRNAs to discover possible synthetic lethal partners of the DNA repair protein polynucleotide kinase/phosphatase (PNKP) led to the identification of the potent tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN). Here, we have confirmed the PNKP/PTEN synthetic lethal partnership in a variety of different cell lines including the PC3 prostate cancer cell line, which is naturally deficient in PTEN. We provide evidence that codepletion of PTEN and PNKP induces apoptosis. In HCT116 colon cancer cells, the loss of PTEN is accompanied by an increased background level of DNA double-strand breaks, which accumulate in the presence of an inhibitor of PNKP DNA 3′-phosphatase activity. Complementation of PC3 cells with several well-characterized mutated PTEN cDNAs indicated that the critical function of PTEN required to prevent toxicity induced by an inhibitor of PNKP is most likely associated with its cytoplasmic lipid phosphatase activity. Finally, we show that modest inhibition of PNKP in a PTEN knockout background enhances cellular radiosensitivity, suggesting that such a “synthetic sickness” approach involving the combination of PNKP inhibition with radiotherapy may be applicable to PTEN-deficient tumors. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(10); 2135–44. ©2013 AACR.
Mast Cell Positivity to Tryptase Correlates with Metastatic Lymph Nodes in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients Treated Surgically
Authors: Ammendola Michele , Sacco Rosario , Donato Giuseppe , Zuccalà Valeria , Russo Emilio , Luposella Maria , Vescio Giuseppina , Rizzuto Antonia , Patruno Rosa , De Sarro Giovambattista , Montemurro Severino , Sammarco Giuseppe , Ranieri Girolamo
Published: July 2013

Background: Angiogenesis has been found to be a reliable prognostic indicator for several types of malignancies. Tryptase is a serine protease stored in mast cell (MC) granules, which plays a role in tumor angiogenesis. MCs can release tryptase following c-Kit receptor activation. Method: In this study, immunohistochemistry, image analysis methods and clinical aspects were employed in a series of 41 gastrointestinal cancer patients with stage T3-4N2a-bM₀ (by the American Joint Committee on Cancer, AJCC, for colorectal cancer, 7th edition) and T3N2-3M₀ (by AJCC for gastric cancer, 7th edition) to evaluate the possible correlation between MCs positive to tryptase (MCPT) in tumor tissue and the number of metastatic lymph nodes harvested. Results: Data demonstrated a positive correlation between MCPT in tumor tissue and the number of metastatic lymph nodes; the validity of these data needs confirmation in larger patient cohorts. Conclusion: This is the first report considering MCPT in tumor tissue as a potential tool for a valid indication of the type of surgical treatment and its radicality, and it might be considered for the prognosis of patients before radical surgical treatment. Our pilot data need confirmation in a larger patient cohort.
Breast Cancer in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Tessier Cloutier B. , Clarke A.E. , Ramsey-Goldman R. , Wang Y. , Foulkes W. , Gordon C. , Hansen J.E. , Yelin E. , Urowitz M.B. , Gladman D. , Fortin P.R. , Wallace D.J. , Petri M. , Manzi S. , Ginzler E.M. , Labrecque J. , Edworthy S. , Dooley M.A. , Senécal J.L. , Peschken C.A. , Bae S.C. , Isenberg D. , Rahman A. , Ruiz-Irastorza G. , Hanly J.G. , Jacobsen S. , Nived O. , Witte T. , Criswell L.A. , Barr S.G. , Dreyer L. , Sturfelt G. , Bernatsky S. ,   Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC)
Published: July 2013

Objective: Evidence points to a decreased breast cancer risk in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We analyzed data from a large multisite SLE cohort, linked to cancer registries. Methods: Information on age, SLE duration, cancer date, and histology was available. We analyzed information on histological type and performed multivariate logistic regression analyses of histological types according to age, SLE duration, and calendar year. Results: We studied 180 breast cancers in the SLE cohort. Of the 155 cases with histology information, 11 were referred to simply as ‘carcinoma not otherwise specified'. In the remaining 144 breast cancers, the most common histological type was ductal carcinoma (n = 95; 66%) followed by lobular adenocarcinoma (n = 11; 8%), 15 cancers were of mixed histology, and the remaining ones were special types. In our regression analyses, the independent risk factors for lobular versus ductal carcinoma was age [odds ratio (OR) 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.14] and for the ‘special' subtypes it was age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01-1.10) and SLE duration (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00-1.11). Conclusions: Generally, up to 80% of breast cancers are ductal carcinomas. Though our results are not definitive, in the breast cancers that occur in SLE, there may be a slight decrease in the ductal histological type. In our analyses, age and SLE duration were independent predictors of histological status.