bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Higher-Order Period Function and Its Application
Authors: Peng Linping , Lu Lianghaolong , Feng Zhaosheng
Published: September 2015

This paper derives explicit formulas of the q th period bifurcation function for any perturbed isochronous system with a center, which improve and generalize the corresponding results in the literature. Based on these formulas to the perturbed quadratic and quintic rigidly isochronous centers, we prove that under any small homogeneous perturbations, for ε in any order, at most one critical period bifurcates from the periodic orbits of the unperturbed quadratic system. For ε in order of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, at most three critical periods bifurcate from the periodic orbits of the unperturbed quintic system. Moreover, in each case, the upper bound is sharp. Finally, a family of perturbed quintic rigidly isochronous centers is shown, which has three, for ε in any order, as the exact upper bound of the number of critical periods.
Is the Higgs mechanism true to the equivalence principle?
Authors: Unnikrishnan C. S. , Gillies George T.
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we raise and discuss the fundamental issue whether the interaction-induced inertia in the Higgs mechanism is the same as the charge of gravity or the gravitational mass. True physical mass has to fulfill the dual role of inertia and the gravitational charge, and should respect the weak equivalence principle. This is not yet addressed in the standard model that does not incorporate gravity. Hence, the Higgs scenario still requires a gravitational completion. Some relevant analogies where interaction-induced inertia is not the same as the gravitational charge are mentioned. Probing this line of thought will provide valuable clues and perhaps a remarkable answer to the place and role of gravity in the standard model of particle physics.
How Complexity Originates: The Evolution of Animal Eyes
Authors: Oakley Todd H. , Speiser Daniel I.
Published: September 2015

Learning how complex traits like eyes originate is fundamental for understanding evolution. In this review, we first sketch historical perspectives on trait origins and argue that new technologies afford key new insights. Next, we articulate four open questions about trait origins. To address them, we define a research program to break complex traits into component parts and to study the individual evolutionary histories of those parts. By doing so, we can learn when the parts came together and perhaps understand why they stayed together. We apply this approach to five structural innovations critical for complex eyes and review the history of the parts of each of those innovations. Eyes evolved within animals by tinkering: creating new functional associations between genes that usually originated far earlier. Multiple genes used in eyes today had ancestral roles in stress responses. We hypothesize that photo-oxidative stress had a role in eye origins by increasing the chance that those genes were expressed together in places on animals where light was abundant.
Positive effect of combined exercise training in a model of metabolic syndrome and menopause: autonomic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress evaluations
Authors: Conti Filipe Fernandes , Brito Janaina de Oliveira , Bernardes Nathalia , Dias Danielle da Silva , Malfitano Christiane , Morris Mariana , Llesuy Susana Francisca , Irigoyen Maria-Cláudia , De Angelis Kátia
Published: September 2015

It is now well established that after menopause cardiometabolic disorders become more common. Recently, resistance exercise has been recommended as a complement to aerobic (combined training, CT) for the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CT in hypertensive ovariectomized rats undergoing fructose overload in blood pressure variability (BPV), inflammation, and oxidative stress parameters. Female rats were divided into the following groups ( n = 8/group): sedentary normotensive Wistar rats (C), and sedentary (FHO) or trained (FHOT) ovariectomized spontaneously hypertensive rats undergoing and fructose overload. CT was performed on a treadmill and ladder adapted to rats in alternate days (8 wk; 40–60% maximal capacity). Arterial pressure (AP) was directly measured. Oxidative stress and inflammation were measured on cardiac and renal tissues. The association of risk factors (hypertension + ovariectomy + fructose) promoted increase in insulin resistance, mean AP (FHO: 174 ± 4 vs. C: 108 ± 1 mmHg), heart rate (FHO: 403 ± 12 vs. C: 352 ± 11 beats/min), BPV, cardiac inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-α-FHO: 65.8 ± 9.9 vs. C: 23.3 ± 4.3 pg/mg protein), and oxidative stress cardiac and renal tissues. However, CT was able to reduce mean AP (FHOT: 158 ± 4 mmHg), heart rate (FHOT: 303 ± 5 beats/min), insulin resistance, and sympathetic modulation. Moreover, the trained rats presented increased nitric oxide bioavailability, reduced tumor necrosis factor-α (FHOT: 33.1 ± 4.9 pg/mg protein), increased IL-10 in cardiac tissue and reduced lipoperoxidation, and increased antioxidant defenses in cardiac and renal tissues. In conclusion, the association of risk factors promoted an additional impairment in metabolic, cardiovascular, autonomic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress parameters and combined exercise training was able to attenuate these dysfunctions.
Gestation under chronic constant light leads to extensive gene expression changes in the fetal rat liver
Authors: Spichiger Carlos , Torres-Farfan Claudia , Galdames Hugo A. , Mendez Natalia , Alonso-Vazquez Pamela , Richter Hans G.
Published: September 2015

Recent reports account for altered metabolism in adult offspring from pregnancy subjected to abnormal photoperiod, suggesting fetal programming of liver physiology. To generate a pipeline of subsequent mechanistic experiments addressing strong candidate genes, here we investigated the effects of constant gestational light on the fetal liver transcriptome. At 10 days of gestation, dams were randomized in two groups ( n = 7 each): constant light (LL) and normal photoperiod (12 h light/12 h dark; LD). At 18 days of gestation, RNA was isolated from the fetal liver and subjected to DNA microarray (Affymetrix platform for 28,000 genes). Selected differential mRNAs were validated by quantitative PCR (qPCR), while integrated transcriptional changes were analyzed with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and other bioinformatics tools. Comparison of LL relative to LD fetal liver led to the following findings. Significant differential expression was found for 3,431 transcripts (1,960 upregulated and 1,471 downregulated), with 393 of them displaying ≥ 1.5-fold change. We validated 27 selected transcripts by qPCR, which displayed fold-change values highly correlated with microarray ( r2= 0.91). Different markers of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were either upregulated (e.g., Ndn and Pnpla3) or downregulated (e.g., Gnmt, Bhmt1/2, Sult1a1, Mpo, and Mat1a). Diverse pathways were altered, including hematopoiesis, coagulation cascade, complement system, and carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The microRNAs 7a-1, 431, 146a, and 153 were upregulated, while the abundant hepatic miRNA 122 was downregulated. Constant gestational light induced extensive modification of the fetal liver transcriptome. A number of differentially expressed transcripts belong to fundamental functional pathways, potentially contributing to long-term liver disease.
An Efficient Algorithm for Unconstrained Optimization
Authors: de-los-Cobos-Silva Sergio Gerardo , Gutiérrez-Andrade Miguel Ángel , Mora-Gutiérrez Roman Anselmo , Lara-Velázquez Pedro , Rincón-García Eric Alfredo , Ponsich Antonin
Published: September 2015

This paper presents an original and efficient PSO algorithm, which is divided into three phases: (1) stabilization, (2) breadth-first search, and (3) depth-first search. The proposed algorithm, called PSO-3P, was tested with 47 benchmark continuous unconstrained optimization problems, on a total of 82 instances. The numerical results show that the proposed algorithm is able to reach the global optimum. This work mainly focuses on unconstrained optimization problems from 2 to 1,000 variables.
The Importance of the Monitoring of Resuscitation with Blood Transfusion for Uterine Inversion in Obstetrical Hemorrhage
Authors: Furukawa Seishi , Sameshima Hiroshi
Published: September 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to describe critical care for obstetrical hemorrhage, especially in cases of uterine inversion.Study Design. We extracted data for six patients diagnosed with uterine inversion concerning resuscitation.Results. The shock index on admission of the six patients was 1.6 or more on admission. Four of the six experienced delay in diagnosis and received inadequate fluid replacement. Five of the six experienced delay in transfer. Five of the six underwent simultaneous blood transfusion on admission, and the remaining patient experienced a delay of 30 minutes. All six patients successfully underwent uterine replacement soon after admission. One maternal death occurred due to inappropriate practices that included delay in diagnosis, delay in transfer, inadequate fluid replacement, and delayed transfusion. Two patients experiencing inappropriate practices involving delay in diagnosis, delay in transfer, and inadequate fluid replacement survived.Conclusion. If a delay in diagnosis occurs simultaneously with a delay in transfer and inadequate fluid replacement, failure in providing a prompt blood transfusion may be critical and result in maternal death. The monitoring of resuscitation with blood transfusion for uterine inversion is essential for the improvement of obstetrical care.
Effective SIMD Vectorization for Intel Xeon Phi Coprocessors
Authors: Tian Xinmin , Saito Hideki , Preis Serguei V. , Garcia Eric N. , Kozhukhov Sergey S. , Masten Matt , Cherkasov Aleksei G. , Panchenko Nikolay
Published: September 2015

Efficiently exploiting SIMD vector units is one of the most important aspects in achieving high performance of the application code running on Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors. In this paper, we present several effective SIMD vectorization techniques such as less-than-full-vector loop vectorization, Intel MIC specific alignment optimization, and small matrix transpose/multiplication 2D vectorization implemented in the Intel C/C++ and Fortran production compilers for Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors. A set of workloads from several application domains is employed to conduct the performance study of our SIMD vectorization techniques. The performance results show that we achieved up to 12.5x performance gain on the Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor. We also demonstrate a 2000x performance speedup from the seamless integration of SIMD vectorization and parallelization.
Pulmonary Nocardiosis in the Immunocompetent Host: Case Series
Authors: Singh Inderjit , West Frances Mae , Sanders Abraham , Hartman Barry , Zappetti Dana
Published: September 2015

Pulmonary nocardiosis is commonly recognized as an opportunistic infection in patients with predisposing immunosuppressive conditions. However, reports of pulmonary nocardiosis in the immunocompetent host are rare. Here, we report a case series of four patients with pulmonary nocardiosis without a predisposing condition.
Traffic and Driving Simulator Based on Architecture of Interactive Motion
Authors: Paz Alexander , Veeramisti Naveen , Khaddar Romesh , de la Fuente-Mella Hanns , Modorcea Luiza
Published: September 2015

This study proposes an architecture for an interactive motion‐based traffic simulation environment. In order to enhance modeling realism involving actual human beings, the proposed architecture integrates multiple types of simulation, including: (i) motion‐based driving simulation, (ii) pedestrian simulation, (iii) motorcycling and bicycling simulation, and (iv) traffic flow simulation. The architecture has been designed to enable the simulation of the entire network; as a result, the actual driver, pedestrian, and bike rider can navigate anywhere in the system. In addition, the background traffic interacts with the actual human beings. This is accomplished by using a hybrid mesomicroscopic traffic flow simulation modeling approach. The mesoscopic traffic flow simulation model loads the results of a user equilibrium traffic assignment solution and propagates the corresponding traffic through the entire system. The microscopic traffic flow simulation model provides background traffic around the vicinities where actual human beings are navigating the system. The two traffic flow simulation models interact continuously to update system conditions based on the interactions between actual humans and the fully simulated entities. Implementation efforts are currently in progress and some preliminary tests of individual components have been conducted. The implementation of the proposed architecture faces significant challenges ranging from multiplatform and multilanguage integration to multievent communication and coordination.
The Past, Present, and Future in Management of Small Renal Masses
Authors: Ha Sarah C. , Zlomke Haley A. , Cost Nicholas , Wilson Shandra
Published: September 2015

Management of small renal masses (SRMs) is currently evolving due to the increased incidence given the ubiquity of cross-sectional imaging. Diagnosing a mass in the early stages theoretically allows for high rates of cure but simultaneously risks overtreatment. New consensus guidelines and treatment modalities are changing frequently. The multitude of information currently available shall be summarized in this review. This summary will detail the historic surgical treatment of renal cell carcinoma with current innovations, the feasibility and utility of biopsy, the efficacy of ablative techniques, active surveillance, and use of biomarkers. We evaluate how technology may be used in approaching the small renal mass in order to decrease morbidity, while keeping rates of overtreatment to a minimum.
Correspondence Analysis of Soil around Micropile Composite Structures under Horizontal Load
Authors: Shi Hai , Bai Mingzhou , Li Chao , Zhang Yunlong , Tian Gang
Published: September 2015

The current approach, which is based on conformal transformation, is to map micropile holes in comparison with unit circle domain. The stress field of soil around a pile plane, as well as the plane strain solution to displacement field distribution, can be obtained by adopting complex variable functions of elastic mechanics. This paper proposes an approach based on Winkler Foundation Beam Model, with the assumption that the soil around the micropiles stemmed from a series of independent springs. The rigidity coefficient of the springs is to be obtained from the planar solution. Based on the deflection curve differential equation of Euler-Bernoulli beams, one can derive the pile deformation and internal force calculation method of micropile composite structures under horizontal load. In the end, we propose reinforcing highway landslides with micropile composite structure and conducting on-site pile pushing tests. The obtained results from the experiment were then compared with the theoretical approach. It has been indicated through validation analysis that the results obtained from the established theoretical approach display a reasonable degree of accuracy and reliability.
[Retracted] Medical Dataset Classification: A Machine Learning Paradigm Integrating Particle Swarm Optimization with Extreme Learning Machine Classifier
Authors: Subbulakshmi C. V. , Deepa S. N.
Published: September 2015

Medical data classification is a prime data mining problem being discussed about for a decade that has attracted several researchers around the world. Most classifiers are designed so as to learn from the data itself using a training process, because complete expert knowledge to determine classifier parameters is impracticable. This paper proposes a hybrid methodology based on machine learning paradigm. This paradigm integrates the successful exploration mechanism called self‐regulated learning capability of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with the extreme learning machine (ELM) classifier. As a recent off‐line learning method, ELM is a single‐hidden layer feedforward neural network (FFNN), proved to be an excellent classifier with large number of hidden layer neurons. In this research, PSO is used to determine the optimum set of parameters for the ELM, thus reducing the number of hidden layer neurons, and it further improves the network generalization performance. The proposed method is experimented on five benchmarked datasets of the UCI Machine Learning Repository for handling medical dataset classification. Simulation results show that the proposed approach is able to achieve good generalization performance, compared to the results of other classifiers.
A Rare Cause of Reversible Renal Hemosiderosis
Authors: Abou Arkoub Rima , Wang Don , Zimmerman Deborah
Published: September 2015

Kidney failure secondary to renal hemosiderosis has been reported in diseases with intravascular hemolysis, like paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and valvular heart diseases. We present here a case of hemosiderin induced acute tubular necrosis secondary to intravascular hemolysis from Clostridium difficile infection with possible role of supratherapeutic INR. We discuss the pathophysiology, causes, and prognosis of acute tubular injury from hemosiderosis.
Molecular Imaging-Guided Interventional Hyperthermia in Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhou Yurong , Sun Jihong , Yang Xiaoming
Published: September 2015

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women worldwide. Although it is commonly treated via chemotherapy, responses vary among its subtypes, some of which are relatively insensitive to chemotherapeutic drugs. Recent studies have shown that hyperthermia can enhance the effects of chemotherapy in patients with refractory breast cancer or without surgical indications. Recent advances in molecular imaging may not only improve early diagnosis but may also facilitate the development and response assessment of targeted therapies. Combining advanced techniques such as molecular imaging and hyperthermia-integrated chemotherapy should open new avenues for effective management of breast cancer.
Osteopontin Involves Cisplatin Resistance and Poor Prognosis in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Luo Sheng-Dean , Chen Yi-Ju , Liu Chien-Ting , Rau Kun-Ming , Chen Yi-Ching , Tsai Hsin-Ting , Chen Chang-Han , Chiu Tai-Jan
Published: September 2015

Background.Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional cytokine involved in cell survival, migration, and adhesion. However, its role in chemosensitivity in locally advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in humans has not yet been investigated.Methods.We enrolled 121 patients with locally advanced stage IVA/B OSCC receiving cisplatin-based IC followed by CCRT from January 1, 2006, through January 1, 2012. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess OPN expression in OSCC patients’ biopsy specimens from paraffin blocks before treatment. In addition, MTT/colony formation assay was used to estimate the influence of OPN in an oral cancer cell line treated with cisplatin.Results.Of the 121 patients, 94 had positive OPN findings and 52 responded to IC followed by CCRT. Positive osteopontin immunostaining also correlated significantly with positive N status/TNM stage/male gender and smoking. Univariate analyses showed that patients whose tumors had a low expression of OPN were more likely to respond to chemotherapy and have a significantly better OS than those whose tumors had a high expression of OPN. Multivariate analysis revealed that prolonged survival was independently predicted for patients with stage IVA disease, negative lymph nodes, and negative expressions of OPN and for those who received chemotherapy with Docetaxel/cisplatin/fluorouracil (TPF). An oral cancer line stimulated with OPN exhibited a dose-dependent resistance to cisplatin treatment. Conversely, endogenous OPN depletion by OPN-mediated shRNA increased sensitivity to cisplatin.Conclusions.A positive expression of OPN predicts a poor response and survival in patients with locally advanced stage IVA/B OSCC treated with cisplatin-based IC followed by CCRT.
Characteristics of Biological Nitrogen Removal in a Multiple Anoxic and Aerobic Biological Nutrient Removal Process
Authors: Wang Huoqing , Guan Yuntao , Li Li , Wu Guangxue
Published: September 2015

Two sequencing batch reactors, one with the conventional anoxic and aerobic (AO) process and the other with the multiple AO process, were operated to examine characteristics of biological nitrogen removal, especially of the multiple AO process. The long-term operation showed that the total nitrogen removal percentage of the multiple AO reactor was 38.7% higher than that of the AO reactor. In the multiple AO reactor, at the initial SBR cycle stage, due to the occurrence of simultaneous nitrification and denitrification, no nitrite and/or nitrate were accumulated. In the multiple AO reactor, activities of nitrite oxidizing bacteria were inhibited due to the multiple AO operating mode applied, resulting in the partial nitrification. Denitrifiers in the multiple AO reactor mainly utilized internal organic carbon for denitrification, and their activities were lower than those of denitrifiers in the AO reactor utilizing external organic carbon.
Assessment of Full-Eye Response to Osmotic Stress in Mouse Model In Vivo Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Ni Yang , Xu Baisheng , Wu Lan , Du Chixin , Jiang Bo , Ding Zhihua , Li Peng
Published: September 2015

NaCl based solutions were applied as osmotic stress agents to alter the hydration state of the mouse eye. Full-eye responses to these osmotic challenges were monitored in vivo using a custom-built optical coherence tomography (OCT) with an extended imaging range of 12.38 mm. Dynamic changes in the mouse eye were quantified based on the OCT images using several parameters, including the central corneal thickness (CCT), the anterior chamber depth (ACD), the crystalline lens thickness (LT), the cornea-retina distance (CRD), the iris curvature (IC), and the lens scattering intensity (LSI). Apparent but reversible changes in the morphology of almost all the ocular components and the light transparency of the lens are exhibited. Particularly, the ocular dehydration induced by the hypertonic challenges resulted in a closing of the iridocorneal angle and an opacification of the lens. Our results indicated that the ocular hydration is an important physiological process which might be correlated with various ocular disorders, such as dry eye, cataract, and angle-closure glaucoma, and would affect the biometry and imaging of the eye. OCT uniquely enables the comprehensive study of the dynamic full-eye responses to the ocular hydration in vivo.
The Cutaneous Ciliated Cyst in Young Male: The Possibility of Ciliated Cutaneous Eccrine Cyst
Authors: Kim Youngjoon , Kim Hyunjung
Published: September 2015

Cutaneous ciliated cyst was described as a painless cyst occurring on the lower limbs of women between the ages of 15 and 30 years. The cysts are typically lined by ciliated cuboidal to columnar epithelium with pseudostratified areas and focal squamous metaplasia is occasionally present. Immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated that the cysts are PR and ER positive, similar to the epithelia of the fallopian tubes. However, outliers of cutaneous ciliated cysts, including those in male patients and in unexpected locations such as the scalp, finger, and scapular area, have been reported. Thus, some hypotheses have been proposed including the Mullerian heterotopias, ciliated metaplasia of eccrine sweat glands, and embryonic remnants of the cloacal membrane. We report a rare case of cutaneous ciliated cyst on the left shoulder of a 7-year-old boy and this is the eighth case of cutaneous ciliated cyst in male patients. Moreover, through reviewing the articles, we try to propose the classification of the cutaneous ciliated cysts into the cutaneous Mullerian cysts and the ciliated cutaneous eccrine cysts.
Informational Theory of Aging: The Life Extension Method Based on the Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Karnaukhov Alexey V. , Karnaukhova Elena V. , Sergievich Larisa A. , Karnaukhova Natalia A. , Bogdanenko Elena V. , Manokhina Irina A. , Karnaukhov Valery N.
Published: September 2015

The method of lifespan extension that is a practical application of the informational theory of aging is proposed. In this theory, the degradation (error accumulation) of the genetic information in cells is considered a main cause of aging. According to it, our method is based on the transplantation of genetically identical (or similar) stem cells with the lower number of genomic errors to the old recipients. For humans and large mammals, this method can be realized by cryopreservation of their own stem cells, taken in a young age, for the later autologous transplantation in old age. To test this method experimentally, we chose laboratory animals of relatively short lifespan (mouse). Because it is difficult to isolate the required amount of the stem cells (e.g., bone marrow) without significant damage for animals, we used the bone marrow transplantation from sacrificed inbred young donors. It is shown that the lifespan extension of recipients depends on level of their genetic similarity (syngeneity) with donors. We have achieved the lifespan increase of the experimental mice by 34% when the transplantation of the bone marrow with high level of genetic similarity was used.
Measurement of Interobserver Disagreement: Correction of Cohen’s Kappa for Negative Values
Authors: Kvålseth Tarald O.
Published: September 2015

As measures of interobserver agreement for both nominal and ordinal categories, Cohen’s kappa coefficients appear to be the most widely used with simple and meaningful interpretations. However, for negative coefficient values when (the probability of) observed disagreement exceeds chance-expected disagreement, no fixed lower bounds exist for the kappa coefficients and their interpretations are no longer meaningful and may be entirely misleading. In this paper, alternative measures of disagreement (or negative agreement) are proposed as simple corrections or modifications of Cohen’s kappa coefficients. The new coefficients have a fixed lower bound of −1 that can be attained irrespective of the marginal distributions. A coefficient is formulated for the case when the classification categories are nominal and a weighted coefficient is proposed for ordinal categories. Besides coefficients for the overall disagreement across categories, disagreement coefficients for individual categories are presented. Statistical inference procedures are developed and numerical examples are provided.
Bridge Damage Severity Quantification Using Multipoint Acceleration Measurement and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Chun Pang-jo , Yamashita Hiroaki , Furukawa Seiji
Published: September 2015

The deterioration of bridges as a result of ageing is a serious problem in many countries. To prevent the failure of these deficient bridges, early damage detection which helps us to evaluate the safety of bridges is important. Therefore, the present research proposed a method to quantify damage severity by use of multipoint acceleration measurement and artificial neural networks. In addition to developing the method, we developed a cheap and easy-to-make measurement device which can be made by bridge owners at low cost and without the need for advance technical skills since the method is mainly intended to apply to small to midsized bridges. In addition, the paper gives an example application of the method to a weathering steel bridge in Japan. It can be shown from the analysis results that the method is accurate in its damage identification and mechanical behavior prediction ability.
Comparison between Otoliths and Length Based Ageing and Growth of African Armoured Searobin (Peristedion cataphractumL. 1758; Teleostei, Peristediidae) off the Southern Coasts of Sicily (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Bottari Teresa , Gancitano Salvatore , Rinelli Paola , Ragonese Sergio
Published: September 2015

The recovering ofPeristedion cataphractumotoliths collected between 1991 and 1992 from specimens sampled off the southern coasts of Sicily has allowed a direct ageing and growth estimation to be compared with the length based method estimates produced in successive years. Overall, 855 left otoliths (sagittae) were recovered, measured, and read as a whole surface. The core and rings distances were also measured to perform back-calculation. The otolith length-body length relationships were allometric. Back-calculated lengths at age were in agreement with the lengths estimated with otolith readings. Present results showed a good congruency between otoliths and length based method.
Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Product: A Biomarker for Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Jensen Louise J. N. , Flyvbjerg Allan , Bjerre Mette
Published: September 2015

The receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and its ligands are linked to the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD), and circulating soluble receptor of advanced glycation end products (sRAGE), reflecting the RAGE activity, is suggested as a potential biomarker. Elevated sRAGE levels are reported in relation to acute ischemia and this review focuses on the role of sRAGE as a biomarker for the acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The current studies demonstrated that sRAGE levels are elevated in relation to ACS, however during a very narrow time period, indicating that the time of sampling needs attention. Interestingly, activation of RAGE may influence the pathogenesis and reflection in sRAGE levels in acute and stable CAD differently.
A Comparison of Theory-Based and Experimentally Determined Myocardial Signal Intensity Correction Methods in First-Pass Perfusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Fluckiger Jacob U. , Benefield Brandon C. , Bakhos Lara , Harris Kathleen R. , Lee Daniel C.
Published: September 2015

Objectives.To evaluate the impact of correcting myocardial signal saturation on the accuracy of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF) measurements.Materials and Methods.We performed 15 dual bolus first-pass perfusion studies in 7 dogs during global coronary vasodilation and variable degrees of coronary artery stenosis. We compared microsphere MBF to MBF calculated from uncorrected and corrected MRI signal. Four correction methods were tested, two theoretical methods (Th1 and Th2) and two empirical methods (Em1 and Em2).Results.The correlations with microsphere MBF (n=90segments) were: uncorrected (y=0.47x+1.1,r=0.70), Th1 (y=0.53x+1.0,r=0.71), Th2 (y=0.62x+0.86,r=0.73), Em1 (y=0.82x+0.86,r=0.77), and Em2 (y=0.72x+0.84,r=0.75). All corrected methods were not significantly different from microspheres, while uncorrected MBF values were significantly lower. For the top 50% of microsphere MBF values, flows were significantly underestimated by uncorrected SI (31%), Th1 (25%), and Th2 (19%), while Em1 (1%), and Em2 (9%) were similar to microsphere MBF.Conclusions.Myocardial signal saturation should be corrected prior to flow modeling to avoid underestimation of MBF by MR perfusion imaging.
Oxaliplatin-Induced Tonic-Clonic Seizures
Authors: Rahal Ahmad K. , Truong Phu V. , Kallail K. James
Published: September 2015

Oxaliplatin is a common chemotherapy drug used for colon and gastric cancers. Common side effects are peripheral neuropathy, hematological toxicity, and allergic reactions. A rare side effect is seizures which are usually associated with posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES). A 50-year-old male patient presented with severe abdominal pain. CT scan of the abdomen showed acute appendicitis. Appendectomy was done and pathology showed mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma. Adjuvant chemotherapy was started with Folinic acid, Fluorouracil, and Oxaliplatin (FOLFOX). During the third cycle of FOLFOX, the patient developed tonic-clonic seizures. Laboratory workup was within normal limits. EEG and MRI of the brain showed no acute abnormality. The patient was rechallenged with FOLFOX but he had tonic-clonic seizures for the second time. His chemotherapy regimen was switched to Folinic acid, Fluorouracil, and Irinotecan (FOLFIRI). After 5 cycles of FOLFIRI, the patient did not develop any seizures, making Oxaliplatin the most likely culprit for his seizures. Oxaliplatin-induced seizures rarely occur in the absence of PRES. One case report has been described in the literature. We present a rare case of tonic-clonic seizures in a patient receiving Oxaliplatin in the absence of PRES.
A Numerical Method for Blast Shock Wave Analysis of Missile Launch from Aircraft
Authors: Heimbs Sebastian , Ritzer Josef , Markmiller Johannes
Published: September 2015

An efficient empirical approach was developed to accurately represent the blast shock wave loading resulting from the launch of a missile from a military aircraft to be used in numerical analyses. Based on experimental test series of missile launches in laboratory environment and from a helicopter, equations were derived to predict the time- and position-dependent overpressure. The method was finally applied and validated in a structural analysis of a helicopter tail boom under missile launch shock wave loading.
The PKC/NF-κB Signaling Pathway Induces APOBEC3B Expression in Multiple Human Cancers
Authors: Leonard Brandon , McCann Jennifer L. , Starrett Gabriel J. , Kosyakovsky Leah , Luengas Elizabeth M. , Molan Amy M. , Burns Michael B. , McDougle Rebecca M. , Parker Peter J. , Brown William L. , Harris Reuben S.
Published: September 2015

Overexpression of the antiviral DNA cytosine deaminase APOBEC3B has been linked to somatic mutagenesis in many cancers. Human papillomavirus infection accounts for APOBEC3B upregulation in cervical and head/neck cancers, but the mechanisms underlying nonviral malignancies are unclear. In this study, we investigated the signal transduction pathways responsible for APOBEC3B upregulation. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by the diacylglycerol mimic phorbol-myristic acid resulted in specific and dose-responsive increases in APOBEC3B expression and activity, which could then be strongly suppressed by PKC or NF-κB inhibition. PKC activation caused the recruitment of RELB, but not RELA, to the APOBEC3B promoter, implicating noncanonical NF-κB signaling. Notably, PKC was required for APOBEC3B upregulation in cancer cell lines derived from multiple tumor types. By revealing how APOBEC3B is upregulated in many cancers, our findings suggest that PKC and NF-κB inhibitors may be repositioned to suppress cancer mutagenesis, dampen tumor evolution, and decrease the probability of adverse outcomes, such as drug resistance and metastasis. Cancer Res; 75(21); 4538–47. ©2015 AACR.
Extent and Location of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Microsatellite-Stable Colon Cancer Predict Outcome to Adjuvant Active Specific Immunotherapy
Authors: Turksma Annelies W. , Coupé Veerle M.H. , Shamier Marc C. , Lam Kevin L.H. , de Weger Vincent A. , Belien Jeroen A.M. , van den Eertwegh Alfons J. , Meijer Gerrit A. , Meijer Chris J.L.M. , Hooijberg Erik
Published: September 2015

Purpose: To determine the prognostic and predictive value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in colon cancer in a cohort of patients who previously took part in a trial on adjuvant active specific immunotherapy (ASI).

Experimental Design: We determined the number and location of CD3 and CD8 positive T cells in archival tumor samples of 106 colon cancers. We correlated stromal and epithelial TIL numbers with tumor stage and treatment and determined the effects on disease-specific survival (DSS) and recurrence-free interval (RFI).

Results: On the basis of the data presented, we concluded that (i) high numbers of stromal CD3 T cells have positive prognostic value measured as DSS for patients with stage II microsatellite-stable tumors and (ii) high numbers of epithelial CD8-positive T cells have positive prognostic value measured as RFI for the group of patients with stage II microsatellite-stable tumors as well as for the whole group (so stage II plus stage III together). Furthermore, we concluded that high numbers of pre-existing stromal CD3-positive T cells are of positive predictive value in adjuvant ASI treatment measured as DSS as well as RFI.

Conclusions: ASI therapy may contribute to an improved DSS and RFI in patients with microsatellite-stable colon tumors harboring high numbers of pre-existing stromal CD3+ TIL. Validation in future clinical trials is awaited. Clin Cancer Res; 22(2); 346–56. ©2015 AACR.
Chemotherapy-Related Reticulate Hyperpigmentation: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Masson Regnault Marie , Gadaud Noémie , Boulinguez Serge , Tournier Emilie , Lamant Laurence , Gladieff Laurence , Roche Henri , Guenounou Sarah , Recher Christian , Sibaud Vincent
Published: September 2015

Background: Inherited or acquired reticulate hyperpigmentation represents a heterogeneous group of infrequent dermatological conditions. The development of reticulate hyperpigmentation has so far been rarely reported to be associated with chemotherapeutic agents, including fluorouracil, bleomycin or a combination of cytarabine and idarubicin. Case Reports: We describe 5 cases of chemotherapy-related reticulate hyperpigmentation in patients treated with different chemotherapeutic regimens, in particular paclitaxel or cytarabine. The lesions were similar in all cases, with reticulate and/or linear hyperpigmented streaks, which were mainly located to the back and buttocks. Histology showed increased melanogenesis, which suggests a direct toxic effect of chemotherapy on melanocytes. Reflectance confocal microscopy was performed in 2 patients showing a similar pattern, with an increased amount of melanin in basal keratinocytes. These features have been compared with the available data through a literature review. Conclusion: Reticulate hyperpigmentation is an underestimated but characteristic complication of chemotherapy. Neither specific management nor discontinuation of the chemotherapeutic regimen is required.
Location, Infarct Load, and 3-Month Outcomes of Delayed Cerebral Infarction After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Wong George Kwok Chu , Nung Ryan Chi Hang , Sitt Jacqueline Ching Man , Mok Vincent Chung Tong , Wong Adrian , Ho Faith Lok Yan , Poon Wai Sang , Wang Defeng , Abrigo Jill , Siu Deyond Yun Woon
Published: September 2015

Background and Purpose—

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a serious disease with high case fatality and morbidity. Delayed cerebral infarction (DCI) is an important surrogate marker. How location and infarct load affected outcomes was unclear. We aimed to assess the effects of load and location of DCI on outcomes of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage at 3 months.

Methods—

We prospectively enrolled patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage presenting to an academic neurosurgical unit in Hong Kong during a 3-year period. DCI was defined by new hypoattenuation on computed tomography at 4 to 6 weeks, which was not present in the postaneurysm-treatment computed tomography at 24 to 48 hours. DCI was assessed for location according to cerebral artery territories and load semiquantitatively. Cognitive and functional outcome assessments were carried out 3 months after ictus.

Results—

One hundred twenty-six patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage consented for this study. DCI occurred in 56 (44%) patients and was associated with poorer cognitive and functional outcomes (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Mini-Mental State Examination, modified Rankin Scale, and Lawton Instrumental Activity of Daily Living) at 3 months. In patients with DCI, the presence of perforator zone infarct was associated with poorer cognitive and functional outcomes, and cortical middle cerebral artery infarct was associated with poorer modified Rankin Scale. After adjustment for age, admission World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies Grade and mode of aneurysm treatment, both middle cerebral artery cortical infarct load and perforator infarct load were independently associated with poor cognitive outcomes (Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination) and modified Rankin Scale.

Conclusions—

Middle cerebral artery cortical and perforator zone infarct loads are potential surrogate marker to assess the severity of delayed cerebral ischemia.
Reflux of Anterior Spinal Artery Predicts Recurrent Posterior Circulation Stroke in Bilateral Vertebral Artery Disease
Authors: Fukuda Hitoshi , Hayashi Kosuke , Handa Akira , Kurosaki Yoshitaka , Lo Benjamin , Yamagata Sen
Published: September 2015

Backgrounds and Purpose—

Predictive value of reflux of anterior spinal artery for recurrent posterior circulation ischemia in bilateral vertebral arteries steno-occlusive disease was evaluated.

Methods—

We retrospectively reviewed 55 patients with symptomatic posterior circulation stroke caused by bilateral stenotic (>70%) lesions of the vertebral artery. We investigated any correlation of clinical and angiographic characteristics including collateral flow patterns, with recurrent stroke. Risk factors for poor 3-month functional outcome were also evaluated.

Results—

Recurrent posterior circulation stroke was observed in 15 (27.3%) patients. Multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards model showed anterior spinal artery reflux as a significant risk factor for stroke recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio, 19.3 [95% confidence interval, 5.35–69.9];
P
<0.001). Anterior spinal artery reflux was also correlated with poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, 3–6; adjusted odds ratio, 7.41 [95% confidence interval, 1.24–44.4];
P
=0.028).

Conclusions—

In patients with symptomatic bilateral vertebral artery occlusive disease, anterior spinal artery reflux predicted recurrent posterior circulation stroke and poor functional outcome.
Abducting Modernity: Boko Haram, Gender Violence and the Marketplace of Bigotry
Authors: El-Affendi Abdelwahab , Gumel Salisu
Published: September 2015

The abduction in April 2014 of hundreds of Nigerian of schoolgirls by the extremist movement Boko Haram has raised many deep questions about the nature of this decade old insurgency and international reactions to it. This paper asks to what extent the resort by this movement to gender violence represents an escalation in its tactics? And to what extent is this type of violence context-specific? It argues that we have to recognize that this movement is a response to specific Nigerian conditions, and while its violence against women conforms to similar patterns in other African conflicts, the ‘language’ of violence in this case is specifically Nigerian, and was in part a response to similar gender violence by the Nigerian authorities. The fact that the movement keeps emerging anew several times after its leadership and the bulk of its membership had been wiped out tells us that there is a reservoir of anger that keeps feeding it. However, the gender violence is a symptom of a deeper pathology within the movement ideology (signified by its blatant advocacy of slavery and its hostility to modernity and education), which exacerbates the marginalization of Northern Nigerians and perpetuates the spiral of insecurity.
The Risale-i Nur
Authors: Michel Thomas
Published: September 2015

In the battle for minds and hearts of young Muslims in Eastern Anatolia, the Risale-i Nur movement inspired by the writings of Said Nursi may prove to be the most effective peace-oriented alternative to the xenophobic teachings of isis. As the most influential Muslim thinker in Turkey in the 20th Century, Nursi still attracts the attention and loyalty of great number of Turks and Kurds. Nursi was one of the earliest to call for Muslim-Christian cooperation in the struggle against ignorance, poverty, and disunity. His message of peace and dialogue offer a sound foundation for both ethnic tolerance and interreligious harmony.
Objects of the Law, Holy Images
Authors: Simonet Caroline
Published: September 2015

Affixed at the bottom of deeds, seals represent their owners’ authority by the means of a circular legend and a central image. They offer a strong ambivalence: a “seal” is a unique object—a matrix—but also the numerous identical imprints created by this matrix. This ambivalence takes on a philosophical and theological dimension around the question of the tupos. Furthermore, choices of images are not dictated by a written rule but by proprieties related to the seal owner’s status, so they may answer to precise strategies and necessities. Then the adoption of an image reveals spiritual or temporal ambitions. The recent evolution of sigillography leads to a global approach of this subject, including researchers of various special fields. The iconographic dimension of seals is less and less confined to illustrate an article or a book: it tends to become a subject of its own of visual culture studies.
Normative and Legal Challenges to un Peacekeeping Operations
Authors: Howe Brendan , Kondoch Boris , Spijkers Otto
Published: September 2015

The application of law and norms in military operations is complex. This article provides an overview of legal and normative aspects in un peace operations. It will focus on key challenges to un peace operations. First, it will review un peacekeeping from the perspective of international law. After providing an overview of the legal framework of un peacekeeping and the application of human rights law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law, the article turns to issues related to the accountability and immunity of un peacekeepers. The final section addresses normative concepts including the responsibility to protect, the protection of civilians, human security and their relevance in regard to un peacekeeping.
Reflections on Jaloud v. the Netherlands
Authors: Haijer Friederycke , Ryngaert Cedric
Published: September 2015

On 20 November 2014, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights in Jaloud v the Netherlands held that the Netherlands had failed to adequately investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of an Iraqi citizen. Mr. Jaloud had allegedly been killed by a Dutch lieutenant at a vehicle control point in Iraq in 2004. The Court attributed the impugned conduct to the Netherlands and clarified that individuals injured by shots from the checkpoint fell within the jurisdiction of the Netherlands as it was controlling the checkpoint. The Court’s decisions on attribution and jurisdiction, we argue, are open to question and may not have created the anticipated clarification. Furthermore, we argue that the implications of Jaloud for the scope of the duty to investigate the use of lethal force in out-of-area military operations remain unclear and contested. In the Netherlands, which has a history of tension between military police and active serving soldiers, as well as an investigatory policy that is cautious about criminal investigations, more clarity was needed. Since the judgment fails to set out unambiguous legal obligations, we conclude that it is unlikely that the judgment will have an impact on investigatory policy.
Growing Up in Mommy’s Blog
Authors: Pissin Annika
Published: September 2015

This article introduces child-raising blogs in China. Written by mothers and their 6- to 12-year-old offspring, child-raising blogs contain diverse material from and about a child’s daily life and issues relating to a mother raising her offspring. Six blogs from mothers and their daughters are studied under the aspect of generational relations and the voice of children online with the aim of understanding whether or how child-raising blogs in China are part of a changing discourse about the mother-daughter relationship. The article finds that as the objectified state of cultural capital, blogs present a smoothed-out hierarchical relationship between mother and daughter, and carry the possibility of bestowing a voice on children. Due to their continuous and permanent structure, which records opinions and content deemed important by the authors, blogs could be a catalyst or at least a magnifying lens for changes that are already occurring in family relations offline.