bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decentralized Kalman Filtering with Multilevel Quantized Innovation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Li Jianxun
Published: July 2015

Because of low power consumption and limited power supply significance in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), this paper studies the multilevel quantized innovation Kalman filtering (MQI-KF) for decentralized state estimation in WSNs since the MQI-KF can help to save power. In the first place, the common features of the practical low energy consumption WSNs are explored. On this basis, the new quantization scheme is presented. Besides, this paper explores the quantization state estimation by adopting the Bayesian method rather than the traditional iterated conditional expectation method. After that, this paper proposes a new decentralized state estimation algorithm (MQI-KF) for WSNs. Information entropy is analyzed to evaluate the performance of the quantization scheme. Performance analysis and simulations show that the MQI-KF is more efficient than the other decentralized Kalman filtering (KF) algorithms, and the accuracy of its estimation is close to that of the standard KF based on nonquantized measurements. Since the new quantization scheme and algorithm take into consideration the features of real WSNs which are based on the universal network protocol IEEE 802.15.4 standard, they can almost be applied into all practical WSNs with low energy consumption.
Optimal Heater Control with Technology of Fault Tolerance for Compensating Thermoforming Preheating System
Authors: Li Zhen-Zhe , Cheng Tai-Hong , Shen Yun-De , Xuan Dong-Ji
Published: July 2015

The adjustment of heater power is very important because the distribution of thickness strongly depends on the distribution of sheet temperature. In this paper, the steady state optimum distribution of heater power is searched by numerical optimization in order to get uniform sheet temperature. In the following step, optimal heater power distribution with a damaged heater was found out using the technology of fault tolerance, which will be used to reduce the repairing time when some heaters are damaged. The merit of this work is that the design variable was the power of each heater which can be directly used in the preheating process of thermoforming.
Optimal Energy Allocation Scheme in Distributed Estimation for Wireless Sensor Networks over Rayleigh Fading Channels
Authors: Wardihani Eni D. , Wirawan  , Hendrantoro Gamantyo
Published: July 2015

We focus on the issue of energy and bandwidth limitations in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN). To tackle this issue, we propose the optimal energy allocation scheme and the optimal number of quantization bits by using alternating optimization method. Firstly, we determine the optimal energy allocation scheme which minimizes the reconstruction error on fusion center by keeping the number of quantization bits per sensor fixed. Secondly, we determine the optimal number of quantization bits per sensor such that the energy allocation scheme achieves the minimum reconstruction error. To find the optimal energy allocation scheme and the optimal number of quantization bits jointly, we propose an iterative algorithm. The results show that the proposed algorithms do not only achieve better results than equal energy allocation scheme but also produce reconstruction error close to that of un-quantized estimation. This paper also investigates the effects of sensor noise observation and propagation losses on the design of optimal energy allocation scheme. The optimal energy allocation scheme suggests the allocation of more energy to sensors with small variance noise of sensor observation.
Shynthesis and Characterizations of Calcium Hydroxyapatite Derived from Crabs Shells (Portunus pelagicus) and Its Potency in Safeguard against to Dental Demineralizations
Authors: Raya Indah , Mayasari Erna , Yahya Afdaliah , Syahrul Muhammad , Latunra Andi Ilham
Published: July 2015

Crab’s shells of Portunus pelagicus species were used as raw materials for synthesis of hydroxyapatite were used for protection against demineralization of teeth. Calcination was conducted to crab’s shells of Portunus pelagicus at temperature of 1000°C for 5 hours. The results of calcination was reacted with (NH4)2HPO4, then dried at 110°C for 5 hours. Sintering was conducted to results of precipitated dried with temperature variations 400–1000°C for a hour each variation of temperature then characterized by X-ray diffractometer and FTIR in order to obtain the optimum formation temperature of hydroxyapatite is 800°C. The hydroxyapatite is then tested its effectiveness in protection against tooth demineralization using acetate buffer pH 5.0 with 1 M acetic acid concentration with the addition of hydroxyapatite and time variation of immersion. The results showed that the rate of tooth demineralization in acetate buffer decreased significantly with the provision of hydroxyapatite into a solution where the addition of the magnitude of hydroxyapatite is greater decrease in the rate of tooth demineralization.
Dynamic Server Cluster Load Balancing in Virtualization Environment with OpenFlow
Authors: Chen Wenbo , Shang Zhihao , Tian Xinning , Li Hui
Published: July 2015

The load balancing technology is widely used in current enterprise network to provide high quality and reliable service. Conventional load balancing technology is often achieved by specific hardware that is usually very expensive and lacks sufficient flexibility. Meanwhile, it is easy to become a single point of failure and would be restricted in virtualization environments. Thus, we propose a load balancing algorithm based on server running state, which can calculate comprehensive loading according to the CPU utilization, memory utilization, and network traffic of the servers. Furthermore, a load balancing solution based on software defined networks (SDN) technology is applied in this paper, and it is designed and implemented in OpenFlow network. We combine network management and server state monitor in this scheme, in which the OpenFlow switches forward the request to the least comprehensive loading server by modifying the packet.
Diverse Roles of Heparan Sulfate and Heparin in Wound Repair
Authors: Olczyk Pawel , Mencner Łukasz , Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna
Published: July 2015

Heparan sulfate (HS) and heparin (Hp) are linear polysaccharide chains composed of repeating (1→4) linked pyrosulfuric acid and 2-amino-2-deoxy glucopyranose (glucosamine) residue. Mentioned glycosaminoglycans chains are covalentlyO-linked to serine residues within the core proteins creating heparan sulfate/heparin proteoglycans (HSPG). The latter ones participate in many physiological and pathological phenomena impacting both the plethora of ligands such as cytokines, growth factors, and adhesion molecules and the variety of the ECM constituents. Moreover, HS/Hp determine the effective wound healing process. Initial growth of HS and Hp amount is pivotal during the early phase of tissue repair; however heparan sulfate and heparin also participate in further stages of tissue regeneration.
Effect of Wood Preservatives on Surface Properties of Coated Wood
Authors: Ozdemir Turgay , Temiz Ali , Aydin Ismail
Published: July 2015

Effect of wood preservatives (waterborne and organicborne) on the performance of surface finishing properties is investigated. Sapwood of scots pine, (Pinus sylvestrisL.), oriental beech (Fagus orientalisLipsky), and chestnut (Castanea sativaMill.) specimens (300 × 100 × 15 mm along the grain) were impregnated with aqueous solution of 2% CCA, 2% Tanalith E, 1% boric acid, and Immersol aqua. Surface roughness, dry film thickness, adhesion strength, gloss measurement, scratch, and abrasion resistance were determined according to related standards for treated and untreated samples. The results indicated that surface roughness and adhesion strength depended on wood species and the chemical composition of preservatives. Generally, waterborne wood preservatives increased the surface roughness of wood while the organic-based wood preservatives decreased it. The organic-based wood preservatives decreased adhesion but they increased gloss value. Wood preservatives did not affect the scratch resistance which was found to depend on properties of the coating. All the wood preservatives increased abrasion resistance.
GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration
Authors: Pickart Loren , Vasquez-Soltero Jessica Michelle , Margolina Anna
Published: July 2015

GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is present in human plasma, saliva, and urine but declines with age. It is proposed that GHK functions as a complex with copper 2+ which accelerates wound healing and skin repair. GHK stimulates both synthesis and breakdown of collagen and glycosaminoglycans and modulates the activity of both metalloproteinases and their inhibitors. It stimulates collagen, dermatan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and the small proteoglycan, decorin. It also restores replicative vitality to fibroblasts after radiation therapy. The molecule attracts immune and endothelial cells to the site of an injury. It accelerates wound-healing of the skin, hair follicles, gastrointestinal tract, boney tissue, and foot pads of dogs. It also induces systemic wound healing in rats, mice, and pigs. In cosmetic products, it has been found to tighten loose skin and improve elasticity, skin density, and firmness, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, reduce photodamage, and hyperpigmentation, and increase keratinocyte proliferation. GHK has been proposed as a therapeutic agent for skin inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and metastatic colon cancer. It is capable of up- and downregulating at least 4,000 human genes, essentially resetting DNA to a healthier state. The present review revisits GHK’s role in skin regeneration in the light of recent discoveries.
Unusual Extramedullary Plasmacytoma: A Rare but Possible Cause of Lymphadenopathy in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Chantepie S. P. , Cabrera Q. , Mear J. B. , Salaun V. , Lechapt-Zalcman E. , Macro M.
Published: July 2015

Cervical bilateral lymphadenopathy is a frequent event during chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) natural history. However, lymph node biopsy is generally not required as long as transformation into an aggressive lymphoma (Richter syndrome) is not suspected. We present here a rare case of CLL patient who developed progressive bilateral cervical lymph node and bilateral tonsillar hypertrophy. CLL front-line therapy was ineffective leading to adenectomy and diagnosis of concomitant extramedullary plasmacytoma. Radiotherapy did not result in the disappearance of lymphadenopathy. Adenectomy should be performed in CLL cases to avoid misdiagnosis.
Research on Radial Motion Characteristic of the Cropping Hammer in Radial-Forging Cropping Method
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Zhao Shengdun , Wang Zhenwei
Published: July 2015

The radial loading form applied to the bar is very important for reducing or avoiding the impact and vibration of the radial-forging cropping system and obtaining the high-quality cross section. A new radial stroke loading curve of the cropping hammer based on the cycloid form is proposed and the dynamic model of radial stroke loading mechanism is built. With the aim of obtaining the equivalent stiffness of the bar with V-shaped notch, which is a key parameter affecting the dynamic characteristic of radial stroke loading mechanism, the analytic model of the bar is built and the simulation experiments are designed by means of the orthogonal test method. The analytical results show that the diameter of the bar has the significant influence on the equivalent stiffness of the bar. Furthermore, the equivalent stiffness of the bar with V-shaped notch can be directly calculated according to the equivalent stiffness of smooth bar whenh/d<0.05andr>0.15. By using the cycloid stroke curve, the cropping experimental results for 45 steel bars and 20 steel bars show that the radial impact and vibration of the cropping system are decreased and the bar cross-section qualities have been significantly improved.
The Use of Stem Cells in Burn Wound Healing: A Review
Authors: Ghieh Fadi , Jurjus Rosalyn , Ibrahim Amir , Geagea Alice Gerges , Daouk Hisham , El Baba Bassel , Chams Sana , Matar Michel , Zein Wadih , Jurjus Abdo
Published: July 2015

Burn wound healing involves a series of complex processes which are subject to intensive investigations to improve the outcomes, in particular, the healing time and the quality of the scar. Burn injuries, especially severe ones, are proving to have devastating effects on the affected patients. Stem cells have been recently applied in the field to promote superior healing of the wounds. Not only have stem cells been shown to promote better and faster healing of the burn wounds, but also they have decreased the inflammation levels with less scar progression and fibrosis. This review aims to highlight the beneficial therapeutic effect of stem cells in burn wound healing and to discuss the involved pathways and signaling molecules. The review covers various types of burn wound healing like skin and corneal burns, along with the alternative recent therapies being studied in the field of burn wound healing. The current reflection of the attitudes of people regarding the use of stem cells in burn wound healing is also stated.
Freestyle Local Perforator Flaps for Facial Reconstruction
Authors: Lee Jun Yong , Kim Ji Min , Kwon Ho , Jung Sung-No , Shim Hyung Sup , Kim Sang Wha
Published: July 2015

For the successful reconstruction of facial defects, various perforator flaps have been used in single-stage surgery, where tissues are moved to adjacent defect sites. Our group successfully performed perforator flap surgery on 17 patients with small to moderate facial defects that affected the functional and aesthetic features of their faces. Of four complicated cases, three developed venous congestion, which resolved in the subacute postoperative period, and one patient with partial necrosis underwent minor revision. We reviewed the literature on freestyle perforator flaps for facial defect reconstruction and focused on English articles published in the last five years. With the advance of knowledge regarding the vascular anatomy of pedicled perforator flaps in the face, we found that some perforator flaps can improve functional and aesthetic reconstruction for the facial defects. We suggest that freestyle facial perforator flaps can serve as alternative, safe, and versatile treatment modalities for covering small to moderate facial defects.
Lung Metastasis Mimicking Fingertip Infection
Authors: Soylemez Salih , Demiroglu Murat , Yayla Mehmet Ali , Ozkan Korhan , Alpan Bugra , Ozger Harzem
Published: July 2015

Metastasis fingers (acral metastasis) are finding a poor prognosis. Past medical history should be questioned and metastasis from primary tumor should be kept in mind in patients with pain, swelling, and hyperemia in fingers. Successful surgical treatment on acral metastasis does not extend the life expectancy; however, it reduces the patient’s pain during his terminal period, saves the functions of the limb, and increases life comfort.
Optimum Design for Mechanical Structures and Material Properties of the Dual-Elbow-Bar Mechanism
Authors: Lin Weiguo , Zhou Chen , Huang Weijun
Published: July 2015

According to the kinematic equation of the die-cutting machine with the dual-elbow-bar mechanism, the angular acceleration curve figure can be obtained exactly through the analysis of MATLAB program when the die-cutting machine runs at the highest speed (6000 r/h). The material properties of the cam driving mechanism are analyzed by QFD (Quality Function Deployment) method, and the optimum design project is presented based on conjugate cam driving mechanism. The reverse design and the outline of conjugate cam mechanism are obtained by MATLAB program. The kinematical form of optimized design conjugate cam driving mechanism is simulated and analyzed by ADAMS software. The results show that the optimum design mechanism could raise the highest speed of the die-cutting machine up to 7500 r/h and improve the overall performance of the machine.
The Spaces of Functions of Two Variables of BoundedκΦ-Variation in the Sense of Schramm-Korenblum
Authors: Azócar A. , Mejía O. , Merentes N. , Rivas S.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this paper is twofold. Firstly, we introduce the concept of boundedκΦ-variation in the sense of Schramm-Korenblum for real functions with domain in a rectangle ofR2. Secondly, we study some properties of these functions and we prove that the space generated by these functions has a structure of Banach algebra.
Semantic Outbreak Power Based Evolution of Web Event in Large-Scale Ubiquitous Contexts
Authors: Xu Zheng , Chen Hai-Yan
Published: July 2015

Nowadays, emergencies’ events have a great impact on people's daily life. Web is acting as an important platform for the diffusion and evolution of social events. With the popularization and development of web technology in the world, web is becoming an important platform to cover, transmit, and release the news. Information holders can use Internet as a medium to broadcast various news in real time. But it is difficult for people to excavate the events development trend from web information. In this paper, we introduce a method to measure the evolution process of the Web event based on the semantic outbreak power. Then, we propose an approach to distinguish the event type based on the fuzzy recognition. Finally, we give some instances validation of semantic outbreak power of web event and the correctness verification of the event type distinguish of Web event.
An Improved PSO Algorithm for Distributed Localization in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Dan , Wen Xian bin
Published: July 2015

Accurate and quick localization of randomly deployed nodes is required by many applications in wireless sensor networks and always formulated as a multidimensional optimization problem. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is feasible for the localization problem because of its quick convergence and moderate demand for computing resources. This paper proposes a distributed two-phase PSO algorithm to solve the flip ambiguity problem, and improve the efficiency and precision. In this work, the initial search space is defined by bounding box method and a refinement phase is put forward to correct the error due to flip ambiguity. Moreover, the unknown nodes which only have two references or three near-collinear references are tried to be localized in our research. Simulation results indicate that the proposed distributed localization algorithm is superior to the previous algorithms.
Shades of T790M: Intratumor Heterogeneity in EGFR-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Ichihara Eiki , Lovly Christine M.
Published: July 2015

Summary: In the setting of recent exciting clinical results and numerous ongoing trials, Piotrowska and colleagues explore mechanisms of acquired resistance to the mutant-specific EGFR inhibitor rociletinib, and demonstrate that loss of T790M, EGFR amplification, and small-cell transformation are all clinically relevant mechanisms of drug resistance. The authors provide a new paradigm for using quantitative assessment of the EGFR T790M:activation mutation allele frequency ratio to prognosticate responses to rociletinib and also demonstrate that plasma-based assessments of circulating tumor DNA can be used to monitor drug response and the emergence of drug resistance. Cancer Discov; 5(7); 694–6. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Piotrowska et al., p. 713.
Identification and Functional Characterization of Two Novel Nonsense Mutations in the β-Subunit of INSR That Cause Severe Insulin Resistance Syndrome
Authors: Choi Jin-Ho , Kang Minji , Kim Ja Hye , Cho Jahyang , Kim Gu-Hwan , Yoo Han-Wook
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims: Donohue syndrome is an extremely rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in INSR. This study describes the clinical course of a patient with Donohue syndrome, and we also evaluated the molecular and functional characteristics of 2 novel INSR mutations. Methods: Our patient was a male newborn with acanthosis nigricans, lack of subcutaneous fat, hirsutism, thick lips, and high serum insulin levels, all of which are characteristic of Donohue syndrome. INSR mutation analysis was performed, and Western blot analysis was used to verify the effects of the novel mutations on INSR protein expression. Results: Direct INSR sequencing identified the following 2 novel compound heterozygous mutations in the β-subunit of INSR: p.Arg1066* and p.Gln1232*. Western blot analysis of skin fibroblasts revealed a comparable expression of the α-subunit of INSR in mutant and control samples, but reduced levels of mature INSR β-subunit protein were found in mutant INSR-expressing cells in comparison to the controls. Conclusions: This study describes the clinical course of a male patient with Donohue syndrome and the molecular characteristics of 2 novel compound heterozygous mutations in INSR. These novel nonsense mutations are associated with reduced expression of the mature INSR β-subunit, which was most likely due to impaired proreceptor processing.
Effect of TNF-Alpha on Caveolin-1 Expression and Insulin Signaling During Adipocyte Differentiation and in Mature Adipocytes
Authors: Palacios-Ortega Sara , Varela-Guruceaga Maider , Algarabel Miriam , Milagro Fermín Ignacio , Martínez J. Alfredo , de Miguel Carlos
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims: Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-mediated chronic low-grade inflammation of adipose tissue is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is the central component of adipocyte caveolae and has an essential role in the regulation of insulin signaling. The effects of TNF-α on Cav-1 expression and insulin signaling during adipocyte differentiation and in mature adipocytes were studied. Methods: 3T3-L1 cells were differentiated (21 days) in the presence TNF-α (10 ng/mL) and mature adipocytes were also treated with TNF-α for 48 hours. Cav-1 and insulin receptor (IR) gene methylation were determined as well as Cav-1, IR, PKB/AKT-2 and Glut-4 expression and activation by real time RT-PCR and western blot. Baseline and insulin-induced glucose uptake was measured by the 2-[C14]-deoxyglucose uptake assay. Results: TNF-α slowed down the differentiation program, hindering the expression of some insulin signaling intermediates without fully eliminating insulin-mediated glucose uptake. In mature adipocytes, TNF-α did not compromise lipid-storage capacity, but downregulated the expression of the insulin signaling intermediates, totally blocking insulin-mediated glucose uptake. Insulin sensitivity correlated with the level of activated phospho-Cav-1 in both situations, strongly suggesting the direct contribution of Cav-1 to the maintenance of this physiological response. Conclusion: Cav-1 activation by phosphorylation seems to be essential for the maintenance of an active and insulin-sensitive glucose uptake.
Laparoscopic Management of Sclerosing Stromal Tumors of the Ovary Combined with Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Liu Hua-Qian , Liu Qiang , Sun Xue-Bing , Chang Wen-Min
Published: July 2015

Like other stromal-derived gynecological tumors, a sclerosing stromal tumor of the ovary (SSTO) is a rare benign tumor that is difficult to distinguish from a malignant ovarian tumor in clinical practice. An SSTO is routinely treated with laparotomy. Here, we present two extremely rare cases of SSTO with contralateral and ipsilateral tubal pregnancies, in which laparoscopic surgery was performed to remove the tumors. After surgery, one patient (case 1) became pregnant twice within 29 months, and the other patient (case 2) did not become pregnant within 6 months postoperatively. These two cases suggest that laparoscopic management is not only useful in treating SSTO and complicating diseases, but it may also help to reduce unnecessary surgical injury to the ovary.
Opening of a Respiratory Intermediate Care Unit in a General Hospital: Impact on Mortality and Other Outcomes
Authors: Confalonieri Marco , Trevisan Roberto , Demsar Maja , Lattuada Luca , Longo Cinzia , Cifaldi Rossella , Jevnikar Mitja , Santagiuliana Mario , Pelusi Lucia , Pistelli Riccardo
Published: July 2015

Background: Respiratory intermediate care units (RICUs) are specialized areas aimed at optimizing the cost-benefit ratio of care. No data exist about the impact of opening a RICU on hospital outcomes. Objectives: We wondered if opening a RICU may improve the outcomes of patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF), acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), or community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Methods: We analyzed the discharge abstracts of 2,372 admissions to the RICU and internal medicine units (IMUs) for ARF, AECOPD, and CAP. The IMUs at the Hospital of Trieste comprise emergency and internal wards. In order to investigate the determinants of outcomes, a matched case-control study was performed using clinical records. Results: The in-hospital mortality rate was lower in the RICU vs. IMUs (5.4 vs. 19.1%, p = 0.0001). Statistical differences did not change when comparing the RICU with the emergency and internal wards. After adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of death for patients with CAP, AECOPD, or ARF was significantly higher in the IMUs than in the RICU (OR 6.90, 3.19, and 6.7, respectively, p < 0.04). Both the frequency of transfer to the ICU (6 vs. 12%, p = 0.0001, OR 0.38) and the hospital stay (9.3 vs. 12.1 days, p = 0.0001) were reduced in patients admitted to the RICU compared to those admitted to non-RICUs. Significant differences were found in care management concerning chest physiotherapy, mechanical ventilation, antibiotics, and corticosteroids. Conclusions: The opening of a RICU may be advantageous to reduce in-hospital mortality, the need for ICU admission, and the hospital stay of patients with AECOPD, CAP, and ARF. Better use of care resources contributed to better patient management in the RICU.
Thermal Vapor Ablation for Lung Lesions in a Porcine Model
Authors: Henne Erik , Ferguson J. Scott , Mest Robert , Herth Felix J.F.
Published: July 2015

Background: Various methods for ablating peripheral lung lesions are being investigated; however, none have been successfully adapted for delivery via bronchoscopy. Vapor ablation is currently being used to bronchoscopically create lung volume reduction in emphysema patients. Objectives: In this study, an adaptation of that technology is evaluated for potential treatment of lung lesions in a live pig model. Methods: In 5 anesthetized healthy pigs, vapor of varying energy levels was delivered bronchoscopically to 66 different lung subsegments with airway diameters of 2-5 mm. Two hours after treatment, a necropsy was performed and the ablated regions were assessed for ablation and tissue structure disruption. In 6 additional pigs, vapor was applied to 3 subsegments each. To evaluate the progression of the response to treatment, 2 were kept alive for 10 days, 2 for 21 days, and 2 for 32 days. Results: Histopathological evaluation of the sections demonstrated that vapor is capable of creating a uniform field of necrosis following the subsegment anatomical boundary. The reliability of a uniform field is dependent on the level of energy delivered. An energy level that reliably creates a uniform field of necrosis was applied in chronic animals. The animals tolerated the procedure and posttreatment care. No cardiac arrhythmias, hemorrhage, stroke, respiratory distress, or pneumothorax occurred during or after treatment. Conclusions: Vapor ablation is a potentially safe and efficient means of ablating a targeted region of the lung. We hypothesize that vapor may be useful in treating lesions of the lung in humans.
Characterization of a Novel Mutation in SLC1A1 Associated with Schizophrenia
Authors: Afshari Parisa , Myles-Worsley Marina , Cohen Ori S. , Tiobech Josepha , Faraone Stephen V. , Byerley William , Middleton Frank A.
Published: July 2015

We have recently described a hemi-deletion on chromosome 9p24.2 at the SLC1A1 gene locus and its co-segregation with schizophrenia in an extended Palauan pedigree. This finding represents a point of convergence for several pathophysiological models of schizophrenia. The present report sought to characterize the biological consequences of this hemi-deletion. Dual luciferase assays demonstrated that the partially deleted allele (lacking exon 1 and the native promoter) can drive expression of a 5′-truncated SLC1A1 using sequence upstream of exon 2 as a surrogate promoter. However, confocal microscopy and electrophysiological recordings demonstrate that the 5′-truncated SLC1A1 lacks normal membrane localization and glutamate transport ability. To identify downstream consequences of the hemi-deletion, we first used a themed qRT-PCR array to compare expression of 84 GABA and glutamate genes in RNA from peripheral blood leukocytes in deletion carriers (n = 11) versus noncarriers (n = 8) as well as deletion carriers with psychosis (n = 5) versus those without (n = 3). Then, targeted RNA-Seq (TREx) was used to quantify expression of 375 genes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders in HEK293 cells subjected to either knockdown of SLC1A1 or overexpression of full-length or 5′-truncated SLC1A1. Expression changes of several genes strongly implicated in schizophrenia pathophysiology were detected (e.g. SLC1A2, SLC1A3, SLC1A6, SLC7A11, GRIN2A, GRIA1 and DLX1).
Sustained Virological Response after 8-Week Treatment of Simeprevir with Peginterferon α-2a plus Ribavirin in a Japanese Female with Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1b and IL28B Minor Genotype
Authors: Kanda Tatsuo , Nakamura Masato , Sasaki Reina , Yasui Shin , Nakamoto Shingo , Haga Yuki , Jiang Xia , Wu Shuang , Tawada Akinobu , Arai Makoto , Imazeki Fumio , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: July 2015

Direct-acting antivirals with or without peginterferon α (PEG-IFN α) plus ribavirin are now available for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Direct-acting antivirals are potent inhibitors of HCV replication, but some of them occasionally possess serious adverse events. We experienced a 64-year-old female with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection who showed elevated alanine aminotransferase of 528 IU/l at week 9 after the commencement of treatment of simeprevir with PEG-IFN α-2a plus ribavirin. However, she achieved sustained virological response at week 24 after the end of treatment. In Japan, we also have to treat elderly patients infected with HCV and/or advanced hepatic fibrosis. Until an effective interferon-free regimen is established, direct-acting antivirals with PEG-IFN plus ribavirin may still play a role in the treatment for certain patients. To avoid serious results from adverse events, careful attention and follow-up will be needed in the treatment course of simeprevir with PEG-IFN plus ribavirin for chronic HCV infection.
Longevity of the Subcutaneous Implantable Defibrillator
Authors: Theuns Dominic A.M.J. , Crozier Ian G. , Barr Craig S. , Hood Margaret A. , Cappato Riccardo , Knops Reinoud E. , Maass Alexander H. , Boersma Lucas V.A. , Jordaens Luc
Published: July 2015

Background—

The recent advent of subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (S-ICDs) has provided investigators with a safe and effective new therapy in patients at risk of sudden cardiac death. At present, no data are available with regard to the longevity of these new devices. This study evaluated the longevity of the S-ICD system.

Methods and Results—

All patients enrolled in the European Regulatory Trial were included in the analysis. During follow-up, time and causes of device replacement or explantation were assessed and categorized. Device longevity was estimated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Fifty-five patients were followed for a median of 5.8 years. During follow-up, 26 (47%) patients underwent device replacement and 5 (9%) underwent device explantation. Median time to replacement was 5.0 years (Q1–Q3, 4.4–5.6 years). Replacement was caused by battery depletion in 25 patients (92%), of which 5 within 1.5 years because of premature battery depletion, and by infection in 1 patient (2%). Replacement for a transvenous ICD system was required in 4 patients (7%) because of ineffective defibrillation in 1 (0.003 per patient-year), need for resynchronization therapy in 2 (0.01 per patient-year), and for antibradycardia pacing in 1 (0.003 per patient-year). At 5 years follow-up, 71% of devices were still in service.

Conclusions—

This study provides the first estimate of S-ICD system longevity since its introduction in clinical practice. Median longevity of the first generation S-ICD system was 5.0 years. The majority of devices were replaced because of battery depletion.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01117792.
A Phase II Dose-Escalation Study of Allogeneic Mesenchymal Precursor Cells in Patients With Ischemic or Nonischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Perin Emerson C. , Borow Kenneth M. , Silva Guilherme V. , DeMaria Anthony N. , Marroquin Oscar C. , Huang Paul P. , Traverse Jay H. , Krum Henry , Skerrett Donna , Zheng Yi , Willerson James T. , Itescu Silviu , Henry Timothy D.
Published: July 2015

Rationale:

Allogeneic mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs) have been effective in large animal models of ischemic and nonischemic heart failure (HF).

Objective:

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of 3 doses (25, 75, or 150 million cells) of immunoselected allogeneic MPCs in chronic HF patients in a phase 2 trial.

Methods and Results:

We sequentially allocated 60 patients to a dosing cohort (20 per dose group) and randomized them to transendocardial MPC injections (n=15) or mock procedures (n=5). The primary objective was safety, including antibody testing. Secondary efficacy end points included major adverse cardiac events (MACE; cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or revascularization), left ventricular imaging, and other clinical-event surrogates. Safety and MACE were evaluated for up to 3 years. MPC injections were feasible and safe. Adverse events were similar across groups. No clinically symptomatic immune responses were noted. MACE was seen in 15 patients: 10 of 45 (22%) MPC-treated and 5 of 15 (33%) control patients. We found no differences between MPC-treated and control patients in survival probability, MACE-free probability, and all-cause mortality. We conducted a post hoc analysis of HF-related MACE (HF hospitalization, successfully resuscitated cardiac death, or cardiac death) and events were significantly reduced in the 150 million MPC group (0/15) versus control (5/15; 33%), 25 million MPC group (3/15; 20%), and 75 million MPC group (6/15; 40%); the 150 million MPC group differed significantly from all groups according to Kaplan–Meier statistics >3 years (
P
=0.025 for 150 million MPC group versus control).

Conclusions:

Transendocardial injections of allogeneic MPCs were feasible and safe in chronic HF patients. High-dose allogeneic MPCs may provide benefits in this population.
Amino-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Improves Discrimination for Incident Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Beyond Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Elderly Men
Authors: Skoglund Per H. , Höijer Jonas , Ärnlöv Johan , Zethelius Björn , Svensson Per
Published: July 2015

Improvement of risk prediction for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is needed. Both ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) and biomarkers amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and cystatin C improve risk prediction but they have not been evaluated in relation to each other. We analyzed whether NT-proBNP, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, or cystatin C improved risk prediction beyond traditional ASCVD risk factors combined with 24-hour systolic BP (SBP). Secondary aim was to evaluate whether ABP improved risk prediction when compared with models with the biomarkers. We followed up 907 70-year-old men, free of baseline disease, for incident ASCVD defined as fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction or fatal or nonfatal stroke for a median of 10 years. Cox regression was used to estimate the association between variables in the models and incident ASCVD. Biomarkers were added to a model containing both traditional risk factors and ABP and the models were compared on C-statistics and net reclassification improvement. Twenty-four hour SBP improved discrimination for incident ASCVD when compared with office SBP in a traditional risk factor model (area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve, +2.4%). NT-proBNP further improved reclassification (+18.7%–19.9%;
P
<0.01) when added to ABP models, whereas high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and cystatin C did not. Twenty-four hour SBP significantly improved net reclassification when added to a traditional risk factor model that included NT-proBNP. The combination of 24-hour SBP and NT-proBNP improved discrimination and net reclassification for incident ASCVD when compared with office SBP in elderly men. NT-proBNP, but not high-sensitivity C-reactive protein or cystatin C, improved risk prediction and discrimination when added to a model that included ABP.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Motor Cortex Biases Action Choice in a Perceptual Decision Task
Authors: Javadi Amir-Homayoun , Beyko Angeliki , Walsh Vincent , Kanai Ryota
Published: July 2015

One of the multiple interacting systems involved in the selection and execution of voluntary actions is the primary motor cortex (PMC). We aimed to investigate whether the transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of this area can modulate hand choice. A perceptual decision-making task was administered. Participants were asked to classify rectangles with different height-to-width ratios into horizontal and vertical rectangles using their right and left index fingers while their PMC was stimulated either bilaterally or unilaterally. Two experiments were conducted with different stimulation conditions: the first experiment (n = 12) had only one stimulation condition (bilateral stimulation), and the second experiment (n = 45) had three stimulation conditions (bilateral, anodal unilateral, and cathodal unilateral stimulations). The second experiment was designed to confirm the results of the first experiment and to further investigate the effects of anodal and cathodal stimulations alone in the observed effects. Each participant took part in two sessions. The laterality of stimulation was reversed over the two sessions. Our results showed that anodal stimulation of the PMC biases participants' responses toward using the contralateral hand whereas cathodal stimulation biases responses toward the ipsilateral hand. Brain stimulation also modulated the RT of the left hand in all stimulation conditions: Responses were faster when the response bias was in favor of the left hand and slower when the response bias was against it. We propose two possible explanations for these findings: the perceptual bias account (bottom–up effects of stimulation on perception) and the motor-choice bias account (top–down modulation of the decision-making system by facilitation of response in one hand over the other). We conclude that motor responses and the choice of hand can be modulated using tDCS.
Retracing a Remembered Past
Authors: Pioske Daniel
Published: July 2015

Historians of the southern Levant have increasingly made recourse to the concept of memory as an analytical tool to examine the past recounted within the Hebrew Bible. The intent of this article is to review current approaches toward memory among these historians in order to consider certain theoretical questions raised within this research. Most significant of these will be concerns related to the epistemological relationship that obtains between those ancient, literary memories outlined within these investigations and that past reconstructed through the techniques of modern historical inquiry. The epistemological differences perceived between the past claimed by memory and history leads to the contention that historians charged with interpreting the referential claims of ancient texts informed by a community’s shared memories must do so through a hermeneutical framework that is sensitive to memory’s distinct epistemological underpinnings. This study then concludes by advocating for a post-positivist interpretive approach that situates the referential claims of a remembered past alongside a constellation of ancient referents, textual and material, that attest to the place and time being recollected in order to trace out the semblances and dissimilarities that emerge.
Riccoldo da Monte Croce’s Mission towards the Nestorians and the Jacobites (1288–c. 1300)
Authors: Rouxpetel Camille
Published: July 2015

In 1288 the Dominican Riccoldo da Monte Croce headed to the East, where Pope Nicolas iv and the Master General of his order had sent him on a mission to the Nestorians and Jacobites. For this mission he stayed about ten years with Nestorians, Jacobites and other Eastern Christians. The account of his sojourn in the East, entitled Liber peregrinationis, and the theoretical analysis he derived from it—his Libellus ad nationes orientales—allow us to understand how a thirteenth-century Roman Catholic missionary perceived the relationships between the Catholic Church and Oriental, non-Chalcedonian Churches, in the time of the Second Council of Lyon and shortly after the definitive loss of the Crusader states. Riccoldo’s rhetoric is influenced by several elements—the pontifical definition of Christianity, Dominican missionary theories and the experience of his stay among the Nestorians and the Jacobites in Niniveh and Baghdad. Riccoldo da Monte Croce learned Arabic and Chaldean during his long residence as a Roman Catholic missionary in the East, where he gained a deep knowledge of Eastern Christians. Never did he lose or downplay, however, his identity as a mendicant friar and an apostolic missionary. In the life and the works of Riccoldo da Monte Croce, we witness the confrontation of a convinced Dominican missionary with Eastern Christians, which leads us to rethink the definition of Christianity grounded in the notions of unitas and uniformitas.
The Case for ‘Firewall’ Protections for Irregular Migrants
Authors: Crépeau François , Hastie Bethany
Published: July 2015

The issue of irregular migration is experiencing heightened attention in political, social and legal arenas. While deterrence and crime-control discourse and practices dominate current approaches to irregular migration, this article seeks to focus on the problematic neglect of the treatment of irregular migrants in destination countries, in relation to their ability to access fundamental rights and basic public services. This article will put forth an argument for the establishment of firewalls – a separation between immigration enforcement activities and public service provision. This article will canvass existing trends and practices that have both contributed to the erosion of firewall protections, and have built and maintained meaningful firewalls between immigration and public service provision.
Equal Treatment on the Ground of Nationality for eu Migrant Workers
Authors: Brinkmann Gisbert
Published: July 2015

This contribution deals with Directive 2014/54/eu, which is meant to better enforce the non-discrimination rights on the ground of nationality of eu workers and their families under Regulation 492/2011, which lacks these enforcement rights; the Directive is supposed to complement the Regulation. The contribution deals with the problem of discrimination in practice, the preparation of the proposal of the Commission, its negotiations within the ep and the working group of the Council, the content of the Directive, its speedy adoption within less than a year, and its transposition in the Member States of the eu; the transposition It is due in May 2016. The conclusion voices criticism, although there are some binding obligations for the Member States, but much is left to their discretion, and the Directive does not go far enough, especially fails to achieve legal certainty.
Militant Salafism in Sudan
Authors: Ahmed Einas
Published: July 2015

One of the significant developments to occur after more than two decades of Islamists’ rule in the religious domain in Sudan is the emergence of Salafism. The increasing political pragmatism of the Islamists and the lenient policy towards most of the religious trends have contributed largely to the proliferation of Salafi activities including political militant Salafism. The rise of militant Salafism and Salafi political actors created a space of concurrence with other religious groups particularly with the dominant Sufi brotherhoods leading sometimes to the eruption of violence. This has destabilized the longstanding peaceful cohabitation among opposing religious groups with the Islamists progressively moving towards the centre of the religious spectrum and emerging as a mediator. This article studies two trends of the Salafi spectrum in Sudan representing different models. It highlights their respective relations with the Islamists regime while highlighting the underlying religious driving principles.
Salafism(s) in Tanzania: Theological Roots and Political Subtext of the Ansār Sunna
Authors: Gilsaa Søren
Published: July 2015

Over the past three decades, the role of Salafism has grown considerably in Tanzania, causing clashes and discord between Muslims, Christians and the state and among Muslims themselves. This article traces the roots of the Ansār Sunna, the “defenders of the Sunna”, which is the most conspicuously purist and fast-growing group of Salafi organizations in Tanzania at present. The article discusses the Ansār Sunna local and foreign impetuses and situates the Ansār’s defense of “pure Sunna” in Tanzania’s historical and contemporary politics. The analysis highlights the particularities of individual Ansār organizations and the significance of local actors and changing political conditions for the shaping of Salafi ideas, practices, and identities. Situating the production of Salafi expressions and identities in the ongoing Muslim dialogue within specific environments, the article suggests an inherent diversity, malleability and localizing nature of Salafism.
Shifting Trajectories of Salafi/Ahl-Sunna Reformism in Ghana
Authors: Kobo Ousman Murzik
Published: July 2015

This article explores the shifting trajectories of Salafi-inclined reforms in Ghana since the 1950s. I illustrate that Ghanaian expressions of Salafism emerged in the 1950s from local doctrinal debates between members of the Tījāniyya Sufi brotherhood and those who opposed Sufism. The opposition against the Tījāniyya evolved to become part of the worldwide Salafi reform movement. Tracing the movement’s development, I illustrate further that the Ghanaian expressions of Salafism was neither homogenous nor static in its strategies of proselytization or its doctrinal emphases. Rather, many local Salafi scholars continuously defined and sharpened their ideas and strategies to accommodate changing local and global realities. Moreover, while seeking intellectual and financial support of Salafi sponsors in the Arab world, Ghanaian Salafis remained focused on local needs. The history of Ghanaian Salafiyya will thus sharpen our knowledge of the dynamism of global Salafiyya, and the processes by which local doctrinal concerns find affinities with debates in other parts of the Muslim world.