bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systems Approaches to Tackling Configuration Errors
Authors: Xu Tianyin , Zhou Yuanyuan
Published: July 2015

In recent years, configuration errors (i.e., misconfigurations) have become one of the dominant causes of system failures, resulting in many severe service outages and downtime. Unfortunately, it is notoriously difficult for system users (e.g., administrators and operators) to prevent, detect, and troubleshoot configuration errors due to the complexity of the configurations as well as the systems under configuration. As a result, the cost of resolving configuration errors is often tremendous from the aspects of both compensating the service disruptions and diagnosing, recovering from the failures. The prevalence, severity, and cost have made configuration errors one of the most thorny system problems that desire to be addressed.

This survey article provides a holistic and structured overview of the systems approaches that tackle configuration errors. To understand the problem fundamentally, we first discuss the characteristics of configuration errors and the challenges of tackling such errors. Then, we discuss the state-of-the-art systems approaches that address different types of configuration errors in different scenarios. Our primary goal is to equip the stakeholder with a better understanding of configuration errors and the potential solutions for resolving configuration errors in the spectrum of system development and management. To inspire follow-up research, we further discuss the open problems with regard to system configuration. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first survey on the topic of tackling configuration errors.
Research on Dynamic Reliability of a Jet Pipe Servo Valve Based on Generalized Stochastic Petri Nets
Authors: Chu Yuanbo , Yuan Zhaohui , Chen Jia
Published: July 2015

The jet pipe servo valve is widely used in the military fields of aviation and ship, whose reliability has obvious randomness and dynamic. However, existing methods are either having complicated theory or analyzing static reliability. Based on the generalized stochastic petri nets (GSPN) theory and the collected basic failure modes and failure rate data of jet pipe servo valve, this paper proposes a novel modeling and simulating method for system’s dynamic behavior analysis. In this method, the dynamic reliability model considering failure’s random and repair is established and is simulated using GSPN software. Then, the steady state probability of servo valve is calculated, which is compared with the value calculated by Markov method. Finally, the dynamic reliability parameters of jet pipe servo valve are calculated using collected failure rate data and different repair rate data. Results show the probability that the maximum error between methods of GSPN and Markov is 2.07%, the optimal repair rate set is less than 1.71µi, and also the dynamic reliability parameters become better with increasing simulation time because of failure’s recovery. Therefore, research methods and results based on GSPN are concise and realistic, which can be used for failure’s qualitative forecast and dynamic reliability’s quantitative calculation of similar complicated system.
12q14 Microdeletions: Additional Case Series with Confirmation of a Macrocephaly Region
Authors: Mc Cormack Adrian , Sharpe Cynthia , Gregersen Nerine , Smith Warwick , Hayes Ian , George Alice M. , Love Donald R.
Published: July 2015

To date, there have been only a few reports of patients carrying a microdeletion in chromosome 12q14. These patients usually present with pre- and postnatal growth retardation, and developmental delay. Here we report on two additional patients with both genotype and phenotype differences. Similar to previously published cases, one patient has haploinsufficiency of theHMGA2gene and shows severe short stature and developmental delay. The second patient is only one of a handful without the loss of theHMGA2gene and shows a much better growth profile, but with absolute macrocephaly. This patient’s deletion is unique and hence defines a likely macrocephaly locus that contributes to the general phenotype characterising the 12q14 syndrome.
Relationships between Ambient Ozone Concentration Changes in Southwestern Taiwan and Invasion Tracks of Tropical Typhoons
Authors: Hung Chung-Hsuang , Lo Kuo-Cheng
Published: July 2015

This study aimed to use a newly developed weather and air quality model, WRF-Chem, to simulate and analyze formation of high-concentrated ozone (O3) in the ambient air of southwestern Taiwan before the invasion of tropical typhoons. Two typical typhoons, Nanmadol and Usagi that occurred in 2011 and 2013, respectively, were simulated in this study. The O3concentration variation patterns in the ambient air of both offshore and inland parts of southwestern Taiwan were collected and analyzed. The results indicated that the high O3concentration observed in southwestern Taiwan before typhoon arrived was mainly caused by the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) shrouding it. On the other hand, the latter increase in ambient O3concentration about 1 to 2 days before issuing sea warning was mainly due to both contributions of weakening WPSH and intensifying leeward side effects. For both cases, atmospheric subsidence occurred to result in low ambient air quality. The invasion of typhoons made ambient O3concentration enhanced up to 2-3-fold compared to its normal concentration in summer. Based on the simulated O3concentration variation results in this study, it is demonstrated that the space-fading patterns of O3before typhoon arrives also can be used as references for predicting typhoon moving tracks 1.0 to 2.0 days before landfall of typhoons.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: A Paradoxical Cannabis Effect
Authors: Figueroa-Rivera Ivonne Marie , Estremera-Marcial Rodolfo , Sierra-Mercado Marielly , Gutiérrez-Núñez José , Toro Doris H.
Published: July 2015

Despite well-established antiemetic properties of marijuana, there has been increasing evidence of a paradoxical effect in the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, given rise to a new and underrecognized clinical entity called the Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. Reported cases in the medical literature have established a series of patients exhibiting a classical triad of symptoms: cyclic vomiting, chronic marijuana use, and compulsive bathing. We present a case of a 29-year-old man whose clinical presentation strongly correlates with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Despite a diagnosis of exclusion, this syndrome should be considered plausible in the setting of a patient with recurrent intractable vomiting and a strong history of cannabis use as presented in this case.
Gap Structure of the Overdoped Iron-Pnictide Superconductor Ba(Fe0.942Ni0.058)2As2: A Low-Temperature Specific-Heat Study
Authors: Mu Gang , Gao Bo , Xie Xiaoming , Tanabe Yoichi , Xu Jingtao , Wu Jiazhen , Tanigaki Katsumi
Published: July 2015

Low-temperature specific heat (SH) is measured on the postannealed Ba(Fe1−xNix)2As2single crystal withx= 0.058 under different magnetic fields. The sample locates on the overdoped sides and the critical transition temperatureTcis determined to be 14.8 K by both the magnetization and SH measurements. A simple and reliable analysis shows that, besides the phonon and normal electronic contributions, a clearT2term emerges in the low temperature SH data. Our observation is similar to that observed in the Co-doped system in our previous work and is consistent with the theoretical prediction for a superconductor with line nodes in the energy gap.
Coronal Holes in Global Complexes of Activity
Authors: Obridko Vladimir N. , Shelting Bertha D.
Published: July 2015

We propose a new concept that considers the global complexes of activity as a combination of global and local fields. Traditionally, the complexes of activity have been identified from observations of active regions (ARs). Here, we show that a complex of activity comprises both (AR) and coronal holes (CHs). Our analysis is based on observations of magnetic fields of various scales, SOHO/MDI data, and UV observations of CH. The analysis has corroborated the existence of complexes of activity that involve AR and equatorial CH. Both AR and CH are embedded in an extended magnetic region dominated by the magnetic field of one sign, but not strictly unipolar. It is shown that the evolution of CH and AR is a single process. The relationship between the fields of various scales in the course of a cycle is discussed.
Fracture of the Modular Neck in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Hernandez A. , Gargallo-Margarit A. , Barro V. , Gallardo-Calero I. , Sallent A.
Published: July 2015

Modularity of the components in total hip arthroplasty has had an increase in popularity in the last decades. We present the case of a 53-year-old man with a history of avascular necrosis of the femoral head due to a hypophyseal adenoma. A total hip modular arthroplasty was implanted. Three and a half years after the surgery the patient attended the emergency room due to acute left hip pain with no prior traumatism. Radiological examination confirmed a fracture of the modular neck. A revision surgery was performed finding an important pseudotumoral well-organized periprosthetic tissue reaction. Through an extended trochanteric osteotomy the femoral component was removed, and a straight-stem revision prosthesis implanted. There are several potential advantages when using modularity in total hip arthroplasty that surgeons may benefit from, but complications have arisen and must be addressed. Various circumstances such as large femoral head with a long varus neck, corrosion, patient’s BMI, and activity level may participate in creating the necessary environment for fatigue failure of the implant.
Molecular Pathways: Targeting the CXCR4–CXCL12 Axis—Untapped Potential in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Scala Stefania
Published: July 2015

Evidence suggests that the CXC–chemokine receptor-4 pathway plays a role in cancer cell homing and metastasis, and thus represents a potential target for cancer therapy. The homeostatic microenvironment chemokine CXCL12 binds the CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors, activating divergent signals on multiple pathways, such as ERK1/2, p38, SAPK/JNK, AKT, mTOR, and the Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK). An activating mutation in CXCR4 is responsible for a rare disease, WHIM syndrome (warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections, and myelokathexis), and dominant CXCR4 mutations have also been reported in Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. The CXCR4–CXCL12 axis regulates the hematopoietic stem cell niche—a property that has led to the approval of the CXCR4 antagonist plerixafor (AMD3100) for mobilization of hematopoietic precursors. In preclinical models, plerixafor has shown antimetastatic potential in vivo, offering proof of concept. Other antagonists are in preclinical and clinical development. Recent evidence demonstrates that inhibiting CXCR4 signaling restores sensitivity to CTLA-4 and PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors, creating a new line for investigation. Targeting the CXCR4–CXCL12 axis thus offers the possibility of affecting CXCR4-expressing primary tumor cells, modulating the immune response, or synergizing with other targeted anticancer therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 21(19); 4278–85. ©2015 AACR.
Notch Pathway Inhibition Using PF-03084014, a γ-Secretase Inhibitor (GSI), Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Docetaxel in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cui Di , Dai Jinlu , Keller Jill M. , Mizokami Atsushi , Xia Shujie , Keller Evan T.
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of Notch signaling inhibition as an adjuvant to docetaxel in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) using a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI), PF-03084014.

Experimental Design: The effect of PF-03084014 on response to docetaxel was evaluated in docetaxel-sensitive and docetaxel-resistant CRPC cell lines in vitro and in murine models. Both soft tissue and bone sites were evaluated in vivo. Impacts on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cancer stem cells, and angiogenesis were evaluated.

Results: The combination of PF-03084014 plus docetaxel reduced both docetaxel-sensitive and docetaxel-resistant CRPC tumor growth in soft tissue and bone greater than either agent alone. Antitumor activity was associated with PF-03084014–induced inhibition of Notch pathway signaling; decreased survival signals (cyclin E; MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, EGFR and NF-κB pathway; BCL-2, BCL-XL); increased apoptotic signals (BAK, BAX; cleaved caspase-3); reduced microvessel density; reduced epithelial–mesenchymal transition; and reduced cancer stem–like cells in the tumor.

Conclusions: These results reveal that PF-03084014 enhances docetaxel-mediated tumor response and provides a rationale to explore GSIs as adjunct therapy in conjunction with docetaxel for men with CRPC. Clin Cancer Res; 21(20); 4619–29. ©2015 AACR.

See related commentary by Zhang and Armstrong, p. 4505
Pediatric Dysphagia: Physiology, Assessment, and Management
Authors: Dodrill Pamela , Gosa Memorie M.
Published: July 2015

Infancy and childhood represent a time of unparalleled physical growth and cognitive development. In order for infants and children to reach their linear and neurological growth potential, they must be able to reliably and safely consume sufficient energy and nutrients. Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) in pediatric populations can have a detrimental effect on dietary intake and, thus, growth and development. As a result, it is imperative to accurately identify and appropriately manage dysphagia in pediatric populations. This article provides an overview of dysphagia in children, as well as common causes of childhood swallowing difficulties, populations at risk for pediatric dysphagia, techniques used to assess swallowing in pediatric patients, and the current treatment options available for infants and children with dysphagia.
Organic and Nonorganic Feeding Disorders
Authors: Rybak Anna
Published: July 2015

Feeding is one of the most important interactions between caregiver and child in the first few years of life and even later on in handicapped children. Feeding disorders can present as food refusal or low quantity of food intake due to behavioral issues or underlying organic conditions. This situation concerns mostly infants and children below 6 years of age; however, feeding problems can appear also later on in life. Feeding disorders are a concern for over 10-25% of parents of otherwise healthy children below 3 years of age, but only 1-5% of infants and toddlers suffer from severe feeding problems resulting in failure to thrive. In case of premature infants or neurologically disabled children, this rate is much higher. Feeding disorders may appear as an isolated problem, mainly due to negative behaviors during feeding, or as a concomitant disorder with an underlying organic disease or structural anomaly. The newest classification also includes the feeding style presented by the caregiver (responsive, controlling, indulgent or neglectful) as a separate cause of feeding disorders.
De Novo Mutation in the SCN5A Gene Associated with Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Wang Lumin , Meng Xiangyun , Yuchi Zhiguang , Zhao Zhenghang , Xu Dehui , Fedida David , Wang Zhuren , Huang Chen
Published: July 2015

Background: Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a genetically determined cardiac electrical disorder, characterized by typical electrocardiography (ECG) alterations, and it is an arrhythmogenic syndrome that may lead to sudden cardiac death. The most common genotype found among BrS patients is caused by mutations in the SCN5A gene, which lead to a loss of function of the cardiac sodium (Na+) channel (Nav1.5) by different mechanisms. Methods: The assay of confocal laser microscopy and western blot were used to identify the expression and location of L812Q at the cell surface. Characterization of Nav1.5 L812Q mutant Na+ channels was text by patch-clamp recordings, and the PHYRE2 server was used to build a model for human Nav1.5 channel. Results: Here, we report that a novel missense SCN5A mutation, L812Q, localized in the DII-S4 transmembrane region of the Nav1.5 channel protein, was identified in an index patient who showed a typical BrS type-1 ECG phenotype. The mutation was absent in the patient's parents and brother. Heterologous expression of the wild-type (WT) and L812Q mutant Nav1.5 channels in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293 cells) reveals that the mutation results in a reduction of Na+ current density as well as ∼20 mV hyperpolarizing shift of the voltage dependence of inactivation. The voltage dependence of activation and the time course for recovery from inactivation are not affected by the mutation. The hyperpolarizing shift of the voltage dependence of inactivation caused a reduction of the Na+ window current as well. In addition, western blot and confocal laser microscopy imaging experiments showed that the mutation causes fewer channel to be expressed at the membrane than WT channel. A large proportion of the mutant channels are retained in the cytoplasm, probably in the endoplasmic reticulum. Conclusion: The decrease of channel expression, hyperpolarizing shift of voltage dependence of inactivation, and a decline of Na+ window current caused by L812Q mutation lead to a reduction of Na+ current during the upstroke and the repolarization phases of cardiac action potential, which contribute to the development of BrS.
Low Expression of miR-491 Promotes Esophageal Cancer Cell Invasion by Targeting TPX2
Authors: Niu Hongyan , Gong Li , Tian Xiaofeng , Fang Liangwei , Wang Chengxiang , Zhu Yi
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in carcinogenesis and cancer development, but the role of miRNAs in the progression of esophageal cancer (EC) remains unclear. Methods: The TE-1 and Eca-109 EC cell lines were used. The expression of miR-491 and candidate gene TPX2 in EC samples (n=99) were detected by RT-PCR. The cells invasive ability was determined by transwell assay. The luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the regulation mechanism. Results: A decreased expression of miR-491 was detected in the EC clinical samples compared with the corresponding adjacent tumor tissues. Aberrant expression of miR-491 regulated cells invasion and EMT markers. Furthermore, we verified that TPX2 was a target gene of miR-491. Conclusions: miR-491 may play a critical role in EC.
Distance between the Left Atrial Appendage and Mitral Annulus Evaluated by CARTO 3 Integrated Computed Tomography Imaging
Authors: Cismaru Gabriel , Rosu Radu , El Kamar Nihal , Muresan Lucian , Puiu Mihai , Andronache Marius , Puie Paul , Matuz Roxana , Gusetu Gabriel , Pop Dana , Mircea Petru Adrian , Zdrenghea Dumitru
Published: July 2015

Objective: To measure distances between pulmonary veins (PV) and mitral annulus (MA) using angiographic computed tomography (CT) and to compare them with the left atrial appendage-MA (LAA-MA) line. Materials and Methods: Data from 46 catheter ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation involving 36 males, mean age 53 years, range 27-78 years, were analyzed. Three types of mitral isthmus lines were measured using angiographic CT images integrated in the CARTO 3 system (Biosense Webster): the distance between the right superior PV and MA (RSPV-MA), the right inferior PV and MA (RIPV-MA), and the left inferior PV and MA (LIPV-MA). They were compared with the length of the LAA-MA line. Results: The mean value of LIPV-MA was 29 ± 11.2 mm, RIPV-MA 39 ± 8.2 mm, and RSPV-MA 48 ± 8.2 mm. The circumflex artery (CxA) and the coronary sinus (CS) were closest to the LIPV-MA line. Compared with the three isthmus lines, the LAA-MA was the shortest (24.7 ± 15.6 mm), and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The angiographic CT provided detailed information regarding the anatomy of the left atrium and distances between atrial structures. The LAA-MA was shorter than the other three lines with the CxA and CS situated at a distance.
Angiokeratomas Scroti Associated with Angiokeratomas of the Eyelids: Coincidence or One Entity? A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Buehler Sebastian , Itin Peter
Published: July 2015

We describe a unique patient with multiple angiokeratomas on both upper eyelids and on the scrotum. We review the literature and discuss the pathogenetic relationship. Angiokeratomas are described as vascular lesions, which are defined histologically as one or several dilated blood vessel(s) covered by a keratotic layer. They are usually divided into 5 groups: angiokeratoma of Mibelli, Fordyce's angiokeratoma, angiokeratoma corporis diffusum, angiokeratoma circumscriptum naeviforme and solitary angiokeratoma. Angiokeratomas of the eyelid are a very rare finding in the literature, whereas they appear more frequently on the scrotum. The aim of this report is to present a new case of angiokeratomas on the eyelids combined with angiokeratomas of the scrotum. The clinical manifestation and the aetiology of angiokeratomas vary among the subtypes. While the pathogenesis in Fordyce's angiokeratoma seems to be based on increased venous pressure, the cause of angiokeratomas of the eyelids remains to be discussed.
The Osteogenic Effect of Impact-Loading and Resistance Exercise on Bone Mineral Density in Middle-Aged and Older Men: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bolam Kate A. , Skinner Tina L. , Jenkins David G. , Galvão Daniel A. , Taaffe Dennis R.
Published: July 2015

Background: Regular exercise has been recommended as a potential strategy to counteract the age-related bone loss experienced by men; however, the optimal exercise prescription is not known. Objective: To perform a pilot study to examine the osteogenic effect, safety and feasibility of a combined program of upper body resistance exercise and two doses of impact-loading exercise on bone mineral density (BMD) of middle-aged and older men. Methods: Forty-two community-dwelling men aged 50-74 years were randomly assigned to either an exercise program of combined upper body resistance exercise and either high-dose impact-loading (HI; 80 jumps per session) or moderate-dose impact-loading (MOD; 40 jumps per session) or a control (CON) group. The 9-month intervention involved 4 sessions each week: 2 supervised clinic-based and 2 home-based. BMD of the lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, trochanter and whole body as well as lean and fat mass were assessed at baseline and 9 months by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Bone turnover markers, hormone levels, physical function and muscle strength were also assessed. Results: Following 9 months of training, significant differences in BMD among groups were found at the total hip (p = 0.010) and trochanter (p = 0.047) with BMD in the MOD group decreasing relative to the HI group. Although not significant, the HI group consistently preserved BMD, whereas BMD of the MOD and CON groups declined at the hip sites. Mean change for all groups at all skeletal sites was approximately within ±1%. There was no change in bone turnover markers. There were no adverse events as a result of the intervention; however, overall attendance for the HI and MOD groups was 53% (clinic: 68%, home: 38%) and 65% (clinic: 74%, home: 55%), respectively. Conclusions: This study indicates that while impact-loading exercise can be safely undertaken in middle-aged and older men, the current combined program did not elicit significant improvements in BMD.
European Reference Networks and Guideline Development and Use: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Morciano Cristina , Laricchiuta Paola , Taruscio Domenica , Schünemann Holger
Published: July 2015

Background: The Directive 2011/24/EU [OJEU 2011, L88/45] on the application of patient rights in cross-border health care requires the European Commission to support Member States in the development of European reference networks (ERNs). These ERNs are meant to ease the access of patients to highly specialized health care and to facilitate the cooperation at the European Union level in particular medical domains where expertise is scarce, especially in the rare disease area. Methods: The Directive 2011/24/EU [OJEU 2011, L88/45] and the recent Commission Delegated Decision [OJEU 2014, L147/71] as well as the Implementing Decision [OJEU 2014, L147/79] require ERNs and health care providers wishing to join ERNs to have the capacity of developing good practices guidelines. Results: This provision results in a number of challenges but also opportunities for Member States with respect to guideline production. Member States could consider the importance of devoting resources to build efficient systems and capacities for the development and implementation of trustworthy guidelines. Furthermore, they could adopt a cooperative approach to optimize guideline production across countries. Finally, they could promote the establishment of new research governance based on systematically identified research gaps and prioritized as well as communicated research recommendations. Conclusion: Member States are at a decisive point in establishing the details to ensure the transparent and effective functioning of ERNs. Producing explicit plans for the development and use of trustworthy guidelines should be an essential part of this effort.
The Pudendal Nerve and Its Branches in Relation to Richter's Procedure
Authors: van der Walt Sonè , Oettlé Anna Catherina , van Wijk Frans Jacob
Published: July 2015

Objective: Variations in the branching pattern of the pudendal nerve (PN) have been described in the literature. This study investigated these variations in order to comment on a safe area for the placement of a Richter's stitch. Methods: Richter's procedure was performed on nine unembalmed female cadavers and followed by dissection. PN dissections were done on another 20 embalmed female cadavers. Variations in the branching pattern of the PN were noted and the distance between the Richter's stitch placed and the PN/or the inferior rectal nerve (IRN) measured. Results: The IRN entered the gluteal region as a separate structure in 6/29 cases. The separate IRN was found to pass between 4.1 and 14.45 mm medial to the ischial spine in 18/29 cases. In one case, the Richter's stitch was found to pierce the IRN. The distance between the stitch and the PN and/or the IRN ranged from 0 to 17.8 mm. Conclusions: To minimize the risk of nerve damage or entrapment, the Richter's stitch should be placed >20 mm from the ischial spine. This recommended area should be revised for different population groups, as variations might exist between groups.
Outcome in Multiple Myeloma Patients Eligible for Stem Cell Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Lamm Wolfgang , Wohlfarth Philipp , Bojic Marija , Schörgenhofer Christian , Drach Johannes , Gisslinger Heinz , Worel Nina , Schiefer Ana , Schulenburg Axel , Agis Hermine , Kalhs Peter , Greinix Hildegard T. , Schellongowski Peter , Rabitsch Werner
Published: July 2015

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of care for selected patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Many data exist on ASCT in the era of novel agents. We retrospectively analyzed 189 patients (108 males and 81 females) with biopsy-proven MM, who had received ASCT after induction therapy with either conventional chemotherapy alone or in combination with novel agents at our department. The outcomes of both groups and the risk factors for shorter survival were investigated. The most commonly used induction chemotherapy prior to ASCT was VAD (vincristine, doxorubicin and dexamethasone, 42%), followed by PAD (bortezomib, doxorubicin and dexamethasone, 21%). One-hundred and twenty-nine patients (68%) received cyclophosphamide-recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for stem cell mobilization. No differences were observed for progression-free survival in terms of the number of transplanted CD34+ cells (p = 0.261). A trend in improved overall survival (OS) was seen for the use of novel agents when compared to conventional chemotherapy (164.3 vs. 82.0 months; p = 0.046). The International Staging System stages had a significant (p = 0.036) impact on OS. The novel agents improved OS in our patients with MM undergoing ASCT when compared to conventional chemotherapy regimens. The number of transplanted CD34+ cells had no significant impact on hematopoietic reconstitution.
Class II Analphoid Chromosome in a Child with Aberrant Chromosome 7: A Rare Cytogenetic Association
Authors: Kumar Madhavan Jeevan , Kumar Rangasamy Ashok , Subhashree Venugopal , Jayasudha Thanikachalam , Hemagowri Venkatasubramanian , Koshy Teena , Gowrishankar Kalpana
Published: July 2015

A neocentromere is a functional centromere that has arisen within a region not known to have a centromere. We present a case with a very rarely reported class II neocentromere formation in an aberrant chromosome 7. A 22-month-old male was referred because of dysmorphic features. Banding cytogenetics was performed, and a ring 7 and a supernumerary marker chromosome along with a normal chromosome 7 were found. In situ hybridization using a centromeric probe revealed 46 signals, of which 2 signals for chromosome 7 were observed, one on the normal and one on the ring chromosome. Further analysis using FISH revealed that the linear acentric fragment was part of the 7q region, which suggests that there could be a possible McClintock mechanism.
Effects of Refractive Power on Macular Thickness Measurement Using Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Lee Sung Bok , Shin Il Hwan , Shin Kyung Sup , Jo Young Joon , Kim Jung Yeul
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To investigate the effects of refractive power on macular thickness measurements by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Subjects and Methods: For this prospective cohort study, a total of 50 eyes from 50 normal subjects with no systemic or ocular disease and no history of ocular surgery were studied from February 2014 to May 2014. We used soft contact lenses with a wide range of diopters to change the refractive power. The macular thickness of uncorrected eyes without contact lenses was measured by SD-OCT, and we compared the findings with the results of subsequent investigations in which macular thickness was measured in the presence of soft contact lenses of different diopters (-8, -4, 0, +4, and +8). We divided the patients into three groups according to the axial length (AL) and analyzed the effect of induced refraction change. The main outcome measure was macular thickness measured by OCT. Results: The average age of the subjects was 28.0 ± 3.4 years (mean ± SD), and included 17 eyes with normal AL, 18 eyes with mid-range AL, and 15 eyes with long AL. The central macular thickness was 254.5 ± 17.5 µm for eyes without contact lenses, which was not significantly different from the measurements in the presence of plano contact lenses (254.2 ± 18.1 µm). Even with soft contact lenses of four different diopters (-8, -4, +4, and +8), central macular thickness (254.4 ± 16.2, 253.7 ± 17.3, 257.3 ± 17.9, and 256.9 ± 17.9 µm, respectively) was not significantly different from that of naked eyes in each group. Conclusion: These results suggest that central macular thickness measured by SD-OCT is unaffected by refractive power.
The value of the thromboelastometry heparinase assay (HEPTEM) in cardiac surgery
Authors: Lancé Marcus Daniel , van der Steeg Robin , Boer Christa , Meesters Michael Isaäc
Published: July 2015

The thromboelastometry INTEM clotting time (CT) with heparinase (HEPTEM) is frequently used to detect residual heparin after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in cardiac surgery. This study investigated whether the HEPTEM CT reflects the presence of residual heparin and the association of the protamine-to-heparin ratio to the INTEM and HEPTEM CT. We retrospectively evaluated thromboelastometry data that were obtained before CPB and after protamine infusion following CPB in two tertiary hospitals. The number of patients with an INTEM:HEPTEM ratio (IH-ratio) > 1, suggesting residual heparin, were quantified. Moreover, the influence of different protamine-to-heparin-dosing-ratios (P:H) on the INTEM and HEPTEM CT was evaluated in the clinical setting and in blood drawn from healthy volunteers. An INTEM:HEPTEM CT ratio > 1.1 was observed in 16% of the patients prior to CPB, and in 15% after protamine administration. Interestingly, 23% and 36% of the patients had an HEPTEM CT exceeding the INTEM CT before CPB and following protamine administration. The HEPTEM CT was longer than the INTEM CT in patients with a P:H-ratio of 1:1 (265 ± 132 vs 260 ± 246 s; p=0.002) or P:H-ratio of 1.3:1 (357 ± 174 vs 292 ± 95 s; p=0.001). Increasing P:H-ratios induced a prolonged HEPTEM CT in fresh blood. In conclusion, limited agreement was observed between INTEM and HEPTEM clotting time in the absence of heparin. INTEM comparison to HEPTEM may not always reliably reflect the presence of residual heparin, while protamine may additionally affect the latter test. These observations complicate HEPTEM results interpretation in clinical situations with suspected residual heparin effect after protamine.
Impact of Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Short- and Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Giacoppo Daniele , Madhavan Mahesh V. , Baber Usman , Warren Josephine , Bansilal Sameer , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Dangas George D. , Kirtane Ajay J. , Xu Ke , Kornowski Ran , Brener Sorin J. , Généreux Philippe , Stone Gregg W. , Mehran Roxana
Published: July 2015

Background—

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI), defined as a serum creatinine increase ≥0.5 mg/dL or ≥25% within 72 hours after contrast exposure, is a common complication of procedures requiring contrast media and is associated with increased short- and long-term morbidity and mortality. Few studies describe the effects of CI-AKI in a large-scale acute coronary syndrome population, and the relationship between CI-AKI and bleeding events has not been extensively explored. We sought to evaluate the impact of CI-AKI after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results—

We pooled patient-level data for 9512 patients from the percutaneous coronary intervention cohorts of the Harmonizing Outcomes With Revascularization and Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction (HORIZONS-AMI) and Acute Catheterization and Urgent Intervention Triage Strategy (ACUITY) multicenter randomized trials. Patients were classified according to CI-AKI development, and cardiovascular outcomes at 30 days and 1 year were compared between groups. A total of 1212 patients (12.7%) developed CI-AKI. Patients with CI-AKI were older, with a more extensive comorbidity profile than without CI-AKI. Multivariable analysis confirmed several previously identified predictors of CI-AKI, including diabetes mellitus, contrast volume, age, and baseline hemoglobin. Mortality rates were significantly higher in the CI-AKI group at 30 days (4.9% versus 0.7%;
P
<0.0001) and 1 year (9.8% versus 2.9%;
P
<0.0001), as were rates of 1-year myocardial infarction, definite/probable stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularization, and major adverse cardiac events. Major bleeding (13.8% versus 5.4%; hazard ratio, 2.64; 95% confidence interval, 2.21–3.15;
P
<0.0001) was also higher in patients with CI-AKI. After multivariable adjustment, results were unchanged.

Conclusions—

CI-AKI after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome is independently associated with increased risk of short- and long-term ischemic and hemorrhagic events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifiers: NCT00433966 (HORIZONS-AMI) and ACUITY (NCT00093158).
Combination of the Immune Modulator Fingolimod With Alteplase in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhu Zilong , Fu Ying , Tian Decai , Sun Na , Han Wei , Chang Guoqiang , Dong Yinhua , Xu Xiaolin , Liu Qiang , Huang DeRen , Shi Fu-Dong
Published: July 2015

Background—

Inflammatory and immune responses triggered by brain ischemia worsen clinical outcomes of stroke and contribute to hemorrhagic transformation, massive edema, and reperfusion injury associated with intravenous alteplase. We assessed whether a combination of the immune-modulator fingolimod and alteplase is safe and effective in attenuating reperfusion injury in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated within the first 4.5 hours of symptom onset.

Methods and Results—

In this multicenter trial, we randomly assigned 25 eligible patients with hemispheric ischemic stroke stemming from anterior or middle cerebral arterial occlusion to receive alteplase alone and 22 patients to receive alteplase plus oral fingolimod 0.5 mg daily for 3 consecutive days within 4.5 hours of the onset of ischemic stroke. Compared with patients who received alteplase alone, patients who received the combination of fingolimod with alteplase exhibited lower circulating lymphocytes, smaller lesion volumes (10.1 versus 34.3 mL;
P
=0.04), less hemorrhage (1.2 versus 4.4 mL;
P
=0.01), and attenuated neurological deficits in National Institute of Health Stroke Scales (4 versus 2;
P
=0.02) at day 1. Furthermore, restrained lesion growth from day 1 to 7 (−2.3 versus 12.1 mL;
P
<0.01) with a better recovery at day 90 (modified Rankin Scale score 0–1, 73% versus 32%;
P
<0.01) was evident in patients given fingolimod and alteplase. No serious adverse events were recorded in all patients.

Conclusions—

In this pilot study, combination therapy of fingolimod and alteplase was well tolerated, attenuated reperfusion injury, and improved clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke. These findings need to be tested in further clinical trials.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02002390.
Perception Versus Actual Performance in Timely Tissue Plasminogen Activation Administration in the Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lin Cheryl B. , Cox Margueritte , Olson DaiWai M. , Britz Gavin W. , Constable Mark , Fonarow Gregg C. , Schwamm Lee , Peterson Eric D. , Shah Bimal R.
Published: July 2015

Background

Timely thrombolytic therapy can improve stroke outcomes. Nevertheless, the ability of US hospitals to meet guidelines for intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (
tPA
) remains suboptimal. What is unclear is whether hospitals accurately perceive their rate of
tPA
“door‐to‐needle” (
DTN
) time within 60 minutes and how
DTN
rates compare across different hospitals.

Methods and Results

DTN
performance was defined by the percentage of treated patients who received
tPA
within 60 minutes of arrival. Telephone surveys were obtained from staff at 141 Get With The Guidelines hospitals, representing
top, middle
, and
low
DTN
performance. Less than one‐third (29.1%) of staff accurately identified their
DTN
performance. Among middle‐ and low‐performing hospitals (n=92), 56 sites (60.9%) overestimated their performance; 42% of middle performers and 85% of low performers overestimated their performance. Sites that overestimated tended to have lower annual volumes of
tPA
administration (median 8.4 patients [25th to 75th percentile 5.9 to 11.8] versus 10.2 patients [25th to 75th percentile 8.2 to 17.3],
P
=0.047), smaller percentages of eligible patients receiving
tPA
(84.7% versus 89.8%,
P
=0.008), and smaller percentages of
DTN
≤60 minutes among treated patients (10.6% versus 16.6%,
P
=0.002).

Conclusions

Hospitals often overestimate their ability to deliver timely
tPA
to treated patients. Our findings indicate the need to routinely provide comparative provider performance rates as a key step to improving the quality of acute stroke care.
Description of Ruehmaphelenchus juliae n. sp. (Tylenchina: Aphelenchoididae) isolated from an ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky), from South Florida
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Gonzalez Rafael , Duncan Rita , Carrillo Daniel
Published: July 2015

During a survey of nematode associates of ambrosia beetles from dead and dying red bay and avocado trees affected by the laurel wilt epidemic in southern Florida, aRuehmaphelenchusspecies was isolated from the non-native ambrosia beetle,Xylosandrus crassiusculus. The new species is characterised by its possession of an oral disc at the stoma opening, three lines in the lateral field, male spicule with clear dorsal and ventral limbs connected by elongated triangular cuticle, thin membrane-like tissue and cuticular bridge-like structure, conical tail with pointed tip of males and conical tail with digitate mucro of females. The new species is very similar to four previously described species:R. asiaticus,R. digitulus,R. thailandaeandR. sirisus, and can be distinguished only by some minor morphological differences in male tail characters,i.e., spicule morphology, position of genital papillae and tail tip shape, and morphometric values. However, the new species is phylogenetically unique,i.e., it is the basal taxon of theRuehmaphelenchusclade and close toBursaphelenchusspp.Ruehmaphelenchus juliaen. sp. is therefore proposed based on its morphological diagnostic characters and molecular sequences of near-full-length of SSU, internal transcribed spacer region, D1, D2 and D3 expansion segments of LSU ribosomal RNA and partial mitochondrial COI genes.
The gastropod parasitic nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita does not affect non-target freshwater snails Lymnaea stagnalis, Bithynia tentaculata and Planorbarius corneus
Authors: Whitaker Gemma , Rae Robbie
Published: July 2015

Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita is a lethal parasite of several slug and snail species that has been formulated into a biological control agent. However, the complete host range of this nematode is poorly understood, in particular its potential to affect non-target aquatic snail species. Here we exposed three species of juvenile and adult freshwater snail (Lymnaea stagnalis, Planorbarius corneus and Bithynia tentaculata) to 30 and 150 P. hermaphrodita cm−2 and assessed survival, as well as differences in weight for 66 days. We show that P. hermaphrodita has no effect on the survival of L. stagnalis, P. corneus and B. tentaculata after 66 days of exposure. In summary, we found little evidence of P. hermaphrodita causing mortality to three freshwater snail species at two different life stages and believe that P. hermaphrodita would have little effect on non-target snail species in the wild.
“And It Was in the Dwelling of Rabbi Joshua bar Peraḥiah”
Authors: Frim Daniel J.
Published: July 2015

Jewish Babylonian Aramaic incantation bowls frequently refer to the notion of exorcising demons by divorcing them. These texts sometimes purport to be anti-demonic divorce writs, borrowing passages directly from the traditional rabbinic certificate of divorce (geṭ). Here I ask how the authors of these texts perceived the bowl amulets to operate and how they understood the concept of divorcing a demon. Some scholars have argued that late antique Jewish magical practitioners regarded divorce bowls as legal devices with the immediate power to expel demons from houses. Other scholars interpret the anti-demonic divorce motif in more metaphoric terms. I argue that divorce bowls were not seen as legally binding documents and that Jewish magical practitioners did not believe themselves capable of applying the rabbinic laws of divorce to demons. Instead, incantation bowls refer to the anti-demonic geṭ in order to allude to a mythological narrative in which Rabbi Joshua bar Peraḥiah exorcises Lilith by divorcing her. I explain the function of this mythological allusion through close analysis of several incantation bowls. I also draw on folkloristic scholarship regarding narrative devices in magical texts.
A catalogue of the Chrysididae (Insecta, Hymenoptera) types deposited in the Zoological Museum, Moscow Lomonosov State University, Russia
Authors: ROSA PAOLO , ANTROPOV ALEXANDER V. , XU ZAIFU
Published: July 2015

A critical and annotated catalogue of 52 types of Chrysididae belonging to 32 species deposited in the Zoological Museum of Moscow Lomonosov State University is given. The lectotypes of Chrysis sabulosa Radoszkowski, 1877 and Ellampus (Philoctetes) fedtschenkoi Semenov, 1932 are designated. New synonyms are proposed for (valid name first): Omalus imbecillus (Mocsáry, 1889) = Ellampus kozhevnikovi Semenov, 1932, syn. nov., and Chrysis speciosa Radoszkowski, 1877 = C. fulvicornis Mocsáry, 1889, syn. nov. The status of Hedychridium erschovi (Radoszkowski, 1877), stat. resurr. is revalidated.
A new species of Isoceras Turati, 1924 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Armenia
Authors: YAKOVLEV ROMAN V.
Published: July 2015

Isoceras shevnini Yakovlev sp. nov. is described from Armenia.
The Cossidae (Lepidoptera) of Afghanistan with description of three new species and special notes on the fauna of Bande-Amir National Park
Authors: YAKOVLEV ROMAN V. , PLJUSTCH IGOR G. , SKRYLNIK YURIY , PAK OLEG , WITT THOMAS J.
Published: July 2015

The annotated list of Cossidae of Afghanistan consists of 44 species in 17 genera from the four subfamilies Catoptinae, Cossinae, Zeuzerinae, and Mehariinae. Three new species are described: Cossulus habibae Yakovlev, Pljustch, Skrylnik & Pak, sp. nov., Semagystia bamiani Yakovlev, Pljustch, Skrylnik & Pak, sp. nov., Phragmacossia bandeamiri Yakovlev, Pljustch, Skrylnik & Pak, sp. nov.; all from Band-e-Amir National Park in Bamian Province. Three species (Dervishiya cadambae (Moore, 1865), Semagystia cossoides (Graeser, 1892), Phragmacossia territa (Staudinger, 1879)) are reported for the first time from Afghanistan. A brief biogeographical analysis of the Cossidae of Afghanistan is given.
Revision of the Urophora xanthippe species group, with description of new species (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: NAMIN SAEED MOHAMADZADE , NOZARI JAMASB
Published: July 2015

The xanthippe group of species of the genus Urophora Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 is revised and keyed. It contains seven species with a yellow area on the scutum medial to the notopleuron: Urophora bakhtiari new species (from flowerheads of Cousinia archibaldii), Urophora dirlbeki new species (from flowerheads of Onopordum acanthium), U. iani Korneyev & Merz 1998, U. impicta (Hering 1942) (= Urophora hermonis Freidberg 1974, new synonym), U. kasachstanica (Richter 1964), U. stalker Korneyev 1985, and U. xanthippe (Munro 1934). All the species are described, illustrated and keyed.
Orientozeuzera martinii sp. nov., a new species of Carpenter-Moths (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) from Borneo
Authors: YAKOVLEV ROMAN V. , WITT THOMAS J.
Published: July 2015

Orientozeuzera martinii Yakovlev & Witt sp. nov. is described from Borneo Island (Trus Madi)
Media Violence Effects on Brain Development
Authors: Hummer Tom A.
Published: July 2015

Substantial research has indicated that media violence induces both short- and long-term increases in aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recently, neuroimaging techniques have begun to identify the mechanisms driving these changes. An important avenue that these neuroimaging tools can address is how exposure to media violence in childhood affects brain development, which can have lifelong behavioral consequences. This review highlights neuroimaging research examining how media violence exposure affects the pediatric brain. While such research is limited, evidence suggests that prefrontal mechanisms for controlling emotion and behavior are altered by exposure to violent media. Therefore, long-term increases in aggression and decreases in inhibitory control due to excessive media violence exposure may result from impaired development of prefrontal regions. However, additional neuroimaging research is necessary to establish whether and how exposure to media violence specifically shapes subsequent neural maturation. To optimize the use of neuroimaging in this inquiry, imaging studies should not stand on their own, but instead must be integrated with more traditional research paradigms to establish a more complete picture of effects. Future research must employ more longitudinal approaches to better characterize long-term effects that high exposure to violent screen media may have on brain development, particularly prefrontal and limbic brain regions.