bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Extraction Method of Deformation Influence Factors of Flexible Material Processing Based on Information Entropy
Authors: Deng Yaohua , Lu Qiwen , Chen Jiayuan , Chen Sicheng , Wu Liming , Tang Luxin
Published: February 2014

Through analyzing the flexible material processing (FMP) deformation factors, it is pointed out that without a choice of deformation influence quantity would increase the compensation control predict model system input. In order to reduce the count of spatial dimensions of knowledge, we proposed the method by taking the use of FMP deformation compensation control knowledge extraction, which is based on decision table (DT) attribute reduction, deriving the algorithm that is based on information entropy attribute importance, to find the dependencies between attributes through attribute significance (AS) and to extract the intrinsic attributes which is the most close to deformation compensation control decision making. Finally, through an example presented in this paper to verify the efficiency of RS control knowledge extraction method. Compared with the Pawlak method and genetic extraction algorithm, the prediction accuracy of after reduction data is 0.55% less than Pawlak method and 3.64% higher than the genetic extraction algorithm; however, the time consumption of forecast calculation is 30.3% and 11.53% less than Pawlak method and genetic extraction algorithm, respectively. Knowledge extraction entropy methods presented in this paper have the advantages of fast calculating speed and high accuracy and are suitable for FMP deformation compensation of online control.
A Case of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, Narcolepsy-Cataplexy, Parkinsonism, and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cosentino Filomena I. I. , Distefano Angela , Plazzi Giuseppe , Schenck Carlos H. , Ferri Raffaele
Published: February 2014

A patient is reported in whom signs and symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and narcolepsy have been associated for almost two decades with a late development of parkinsonism and rheumatoid arthritis. A 78-year-old male patient in whom RBD was first diagnosed was followed-up by clinical examination, video-polysomnography, multiple sleep latency test, cerebral magnetic resonance imaging, and dopamine transporter imaging by single-photon emission computerized tomography. The patient was found to present for almost two decades, in addition to RBD, also narcolepsy. Moreover, a late development of parkinsonism and the occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis were detected and clinically and instrumentally characterized. Patients predisposed to RBD and later parkinsonism might be susceptible to a variety of triggers that, in our patient, might have been represented by a possible latent autoimmune process leading to the development of narcolepsy with cataplexy and rheumatoid arthritis, later.
One Patient, Two Uncommon B-Cell Neoplasms: Solitary Plasmacytoma following Complete Remission from Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma Involving Central Nervous System
Authors: Lee Joycelyn , Tan Soo Yong , Tan Leonard H. C. , Lee Hwei Yee , Chuah Khoon Leong , Tang Tiffany , Quek Richard , Tay Kevin , Tao Miriam , Lim Soon Thye , Farid Mohamad
Published: February 2014

Second lymphoid neoplasms are an uncommon but recognized feature of non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas, putatively arising secondary to common genetic or environmental risk factors. Previous limited evaluations of clonal relatedness between successive mature B-cell malignancies have yielded mixed results. We describe the case of a man with intravascular large B-cell lymphoma involving the central nervous system who went into clinical remission following immunochemotherapy and brain radiation, only to relapse 2 years later with a plasmacytoma of bone causing cauda equina syndrome. The plasmacytoma stained strongly for the cell cycle regulator cyclin D1 on immunohistochemistry, while the original intravascular large cell lymphoma was negative, a disparity providing no support for clonal identity between the 2 neoplasms. Continued efforts atcataloging and evaluating unique associations of B-cell malignancies are critical to improving understanding of overarching disease biology in B-cell malignancies.
Dysregulation of Histone Acetyltransferases and Deacetylases in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Wang Yonggang , Miao Xiao , Liu Yucheng , Li Fengsheng , Liu Quan , Sun Jian , Cai Lu
Published: February 2014

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide despite advances in its prevention and management. A comprehensive understanding of factors which contribute to CVD is required in order to develop more effective treatment options. Dysregulation of epigenetic posttranscriptional modifications of histones in chromatin is thought to be associated with the pathology of many disease models, including CVD. Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and deacetylases (HDACs) are regulators of histone lysine acetylation. Recent studies have implicated a fundamental role of reversible protein acetylation in the regulation of CVDs such as hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, diabetic cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure. This reversible acetylation is governed by enzymes that HATs add or HDACs remove acetyl groups respectively. New evidence has revealed that histone acetylation regulators blunt cardiovascular and related disease states in certain cellular processes including myocyte hypertrophy, apoptosis, fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The accumulating evidence of the detrimental role of histone acetylation in cardiac disease combined with the cardioprotective role of histone acetylation regulators suggests that the use of histone acetylation regulators may serve as a novel approach to treating the millions of patients afflicted by cardiac diseases worldwide.
Dielectric Relaxation Studies of 2-Butoxyethanol with Aniline and Substituted Anilines Using Time Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Jeevanandham P. , Kumar S. , Periyasamy P. , Kumbharkhane A. C.
Published: February 2014

The complex dielectric spectra of 2-butoxyethanol with aniline and substituted anilines like aniline, o-chloroaniline, m-chloroaniline, o-anisidine and m-anisidine binary mixtures in the composition of different volumes of percent (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) have been measured as a function of frequency between 10 MHz and 30 GHz at 298.15 K. The dielectric parameters like static dielectric constant ε0 and relaxation time τ have been obtained by using least square fit method. By using these parameters ε0,τ, effective Kirkwood correlation factor geff, corrective Kirkwood correlation factor gf, Bruggeman factor fB, excess dielectric constant εE, and excess inverse relaxation time 1/τE values are calculated and discussed to yield information on the dipolar alignment and molecular rotation of the binary liquid mixtures. From all the derived dielectric parameters, molecular interactions are interpreted through hydrogen bonding.
Effect ofGAS6andAXLGene Polymorphisms on Adiposity, Systemic Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance in Adolescents
Authors: Hsiao Fone-Ching , Lin Yuh-Feng , Hsieh Po-Shiuan , Chu Nain-Feng , Chen Yii-Der Ida , Shieh Yi-Shing , Hsieh Chang-Hsun , Lee Chien-Hsing , Lee Ting-I , Hung Yi-Jen
Published: February 2014

The present study was designed to explore the effects ofGAS6andAXLgene polymorphisms on adiposity, systemic inflammation, and insulin resistance in adolescents. After multistage sampling from the data of the Taipei Children Heart Study-III, we collected 358 boys and 369 girls with an average age of 13.3 years. We genotyped the adolescents’GAS6rs8191973,GAS6rs8191974,AXLrs4802113, andAXLrs2304232 polymorphisms. Significantly higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and hsCRP levels were found in boys with the GG genotype ofGAS6rs8191974 than A allele carriers; higher IL-6 and insulin levels and increased HOMA-IR were found in boys with the GG genotype ofAXLrs2304232 than the A allele carriers. There was a significant difference in hsCRP levels of boys with the TT, TC, and CC genotypes ofAXLrs4802113. Boys with both the GG genotype ofGAS6rs8191973 and the GG genotype ofGAS6rs8191974 exhibited higher BMI, WC, IL-6, and hsCRP levels than the boys carrying both the C allele of theGAS6rs8191973 and the A allele of theGAS6rs8191974. In conclusion,GAS6andAXLpolymorphisms are associated with adiposity, systemic inflammation, and insulin resistance in adolescents, especially in boys.
Ground Movement Analysis Based on Stochastic Medium Theory
Authors: Fei Meng , Li-chun Wu , Jia-sheng Zhang , Guo-dong Deng , Zhi-hui Ni
Published: February 2014

In order to calculate the ground movement induced by displacement piles driven into horizontal layered strata, an axisymmetric model was built and then the vertical and horizontal ground movement functions were deduced using stochastic medium theory. Results show that the vertical ground movement obeys normal distribution function, while the horizontal ground movement is an exponential function. Utilizing field measured data, parameters of these functions can be obtained by back analysis, and an example was employed to verify this model. Result shows that stochastic medium theory is suitable for calculating the ground movement in pile driving, and there is no need to consider the constitutive model of soil or contact between pile and soil. This method is applicable in practice.
Adolescents Smoking in the Crosslight of Other Substance Use and Parental and Peers’ Smoking Behaviors
Authors: Kuendig Hervé , Delgrande Jordan Marina
Published: February 2014

This study investigates the connectedness of adolescents’ smoking status, history of alcohol and cannabis use, and parental and peers’ smoking, dimensions only rarely explored concurrently. Multinomial regression models that compared the smoking status of adolescents were estimated based on a representative sample of 3,560 adolescents aged 14–15 from Switzerland. While 49.0% of respondents had never smoked, 9.0% smoked on a daily basis and 12.0% occasionally; 32.6% had never drank alcohol and 74.7% had never used cannabis. Overall, parental and peers’ smoking and other substance use factors are significantly associated with smoking status. Yet, history of substance use revealed less consistent associations with smoking status among current smokers (daily versus occasional smoking). The findings highlight the connectedness of adolescents’ and other substance use behaviors and support the relevance of concurrent prevention initiatives targeting adolescents with specific substance use profiles and/or growing up in prosmoking social milieus.
A Novel Algorithm Combining Finite State Method and Genetic Algorithm for Solving Crude Oil Scheduling Problem
Authors: Duan Qian-Qian , Yang Gen-Ke , Pan Chang-Chun
Published: February 2014

A hybrid optimization algorithm combining finite state method (FSM) and genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed to solve the crude oil scheduling problem. The FSM and GA are combined to take the advantage of each method and compensate deficiencies of individual methods. In the proposed algorithm, the finite state method makes up for the weakness of GA which is poor at local searching ability. The heuristic returned by the FSM can guide the GA algorithm towards good solutions. The idea behind this is that we can generate promising substructure or partial solution by using FSM. Furthermore, the FSM can guarantee that the entire solution space is uniformly covered. Therefore, the combination of the two algorithms has better global performance than the existing GA or FSM which is operated individually. Finally, a real-life crude oil scheduling problem from the literature is used for conducting simulation. The experimental results validate that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-art GA method.
Bisphosphonate Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A Study of 18 Cases Associated with Fungal Infection
Authors: Aftimos V. , Zeinoun T. , Bou Tayeh R. , Aftimos G.
Published: February 2014

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a serious complication associated with oral and intravenous bisphosphonate therapy. Its pathogenesis is not well understood and its management is difficult. Microbiological investigations have detected a variety of oral pathogens such asActinomyces, Enterococcus, Candida albicans,Aspergillus,Haemophilus influenzae,alpha-hemolytic streptococci,Lactobacillus, Enterobacter, andKlebsiella pneumoniae. To better treat it, it is important to understand its causes and complications.Materials and Methods. Our present study addresses a microscopic observation of curetted jaw necrotic lesions related to bisphosphonates.Results. A mycotic infestation has been found in all of the 18 cases studied.Discussion. An identification of the fungal agent and its incrimination in the pathogenesis of bisphosphonates related osteonecrosis of the jaw could change radically the management of this condition.
Trudinger-Moser Embedding on the Hyperbolic Space
Authors: Yang Yunyan , Zhu Xiaobao
Published: February 2014

Let(ℍn,g)be the hyperbolic space of dimensionn. By our previous work (Theorem 2.3 of (Yang (2012))), for any0<α<αn, there exists a constantτ>0depending only onnandαsuch thatsupu∈W1,n(ℍn),∥u∥1,τ≤1∫ℍn(eαun/(n-1)-∑k=0n-2αk|u|nk/(n-1)/k!)dvg<∞,whereαn=nωn-11/(n-1),ωn-1is the measure of the unit sphere inℝn, andu1,τ=∇guLn(ℍn)+τuLn(ℍn). In this note we shall improve the above mentioned inequality. Particularly, we show that, for any0<α<αnand anyτ>0, the above mentioned inequality holds with the definition ofu1,τreplaced by(∫ℍn‍(|∇gu|n+τ|u|n)dvg)1/n. We solve this problem by gluing local uniform estimates.
Economic Investigation of Different Configurations of Inclined Solar Water Desalination Systems
Authors: Agboola O. Phillips , Al-Mutaz I. S. , Orfi Jamel , Egelioglu Fuat
Published: February 2014

This study empirically investigated the performance of four configurations of inclined solar water desalination (ISWD) system for parameters such as daily production, efficiency, system cost, and distilled water production cost. The empirical findings show that in terms of daily productivity improved inclined solar water desalination (IISWD) performed best with 6.41 kg/m2/day while improved inclined solar water desalination with wire mesh (IISWDWM) produced the least with 3.0 kg/m2/day. In terms of cost price of the systems, the control system inclined solar water desalination (ISWD) is the cheapest while IISWDWM is the most expensive system. Distilled water cost price ranges from 0.059 TL/kg, for IISWDW, to 0.134 TL/kg, for IISWDWM system. All the systems are economically and technically feasible as a solar desalination system for potable water in northern Cyprus. Potable water from vendors/hawkers ranges from 0.2 to 0.3 TL/kg.
Study of the Mechanical and Morphology Properties of Recycled HDPE Composite Using Rice Husk Filler
Authors: Tong Jia Ying , Royan Nishata Royan Rajendran , Ng Yong Chuen , Ab Ghani Mohd Hafizuddin , Ahmad Sahrim
Published: February 2014

WPCs are being used in a large number of applications in the automotive, construction, electronic, and aerospace industries. There are an increasing number of research studies and developments in WPC technology involving rice husk as fillers. This study investigated the effects of different compositions of rice husk (RH) filler on the mechanical and morphological properties of recycled HDPE (rHDPE) composite. The composites were prepared with five different loading contents of RH fibers (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) using the twin screw extrusion method. Maleic acid polyethylene (MAPE) was added as a coupling agent. Results showed that tensile and flexural properties improved with increasing RH loading. However, the impact strength of the composites decreased as the RH loading increased. SEM micrographs revealed good interfacial bonding between the fiber and polymer matrix.
Detection and Genetic Analysis of PorcineBocavirusin Different Swine Herds in North Central China
Authors: Liu Mengmeng , Li Yi , Sun Dong , Xia Yihe , Huang Jinhai , Guo Lili
Published: February 2014

PorcineBocavirus(PBoV) has been reported to be associated with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome and pneumonia in pigs. In this study, a survey was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of PBoV in slaughter pigs, sick pigs, asymptomatic pigs and classical swine fever virus (CSFV) eradication plan herds in five provinces of China (Henan, Liaoning, Shandong, Hebei and Tianjin) by means of PCR targeting NS1 gene of PBoV. Among the total of 403 tissue samples, 11.41% were positive for PBoV. The positive rates of spleen (20.75%) and inguinal lymph node (27.18%) are higher than those of other organs. PCR products of twenty PBoV positive samples from slaughter pigs were sequenced for phylogenetic analysis. The result revealed that PBoV could be divided into 6 groups (PBoV-a~PBoV-f). All PBoV sequenced in this study belong to PBoV-a–PBoV-d with 90.1% to 99% nucleotide identities. Our results exhibited significant genetic diversity of PBoV and suggested a complex prevalence of PBoV in Chinese swine herds. Whether this diversity of PBoV has a significance to pig production or even public health remains to be further studied.
Synthesis and Validation of a Weatherproof Nursery Design That Eliminates Tropical Evening-Fever Syndrome in Neonates
Authors: Amadi Hippolite O. , Mohammed Lawal I. , Kawuwa Mohammed B. , Oyedokun Abdulquddus , Mohammed Hajjah
Published: February 2014

Neonatal thermal stabilisation can become challenging when uncontrollable factors result in excessive body temperature. Hyperthermia can rapidly slow down baby’s progress and response to treatment. High sunlight intensity in tropical countries such as Nigeria manifests in incessant high neonatal temperatures towards early evenings. The ugly consequences of this neonatal evening-fever syndrome (EFS) can only be eradicated by the development of a controlled weatherproof nursery environment. Two laboratories and a ‘control ward’ were applied. Lab-2 was a renovation of an existing room in a manner that could correct an existing nursery. Lab-1 was an entirely new building idea. The laboratories were assessed based on comparative ability to maintain environmental coolness and neonatal thermal stability during hot days. Data collection continued for 12 full calendar months. On average, at evaluated out-wind peak temperature of 43°C (range: 41°C–46°C), the control-ward peak was at 39°C, Lab-2 peak at 36°C, and Lab-1 peak at 33°C. All incubators in the control overheated during the hot periods but there was no overheating in Lab-1. Forty-four (86%) of sampled babies were fever-quenched by water sponging 131 times in the control whilst only one baby received same treatment in Lab-1. Nursery designs patterned after Lab-1 can significantly reduce EFS-induced neonatal morbidity.
NUP98–PHF23 Is a Chromatin-Modifying Oncoprotein That Causes a Wide Array of Leukemias Sensitive to Inhibition of PHD Histone Reader Function
Authors: Gough Sheryl M. , Lee Fan , Yang Fan , Walker Robert L. , Zhu Yeulin J. , Pineda Marbin , Onozawa Masahiro , Chung Yang Jo , Bilke Sven , Wagner Elise K. , Denu John M. , Ning Yi , Xu Bowen , Wang Gang Greg , Meltzer Paul S. , Aplan Peter D.
Published: February 2014

In this report, we show that expression of a NUP98–PHF23 (NP23) fusion, associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in humans, leads to myeloid, erythroid, T-cell, and B-cell leukemia in mice. The leukemic and preleukemic tissues display a stem cell–like expression signature, including Hoxa, Hoxb, and Meis1 genes. The PHF23 plant homeodomain (PHD) motif is known to bind to H3K4me3 residues, and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that the NP23 protein binds to chromatin at a specific subset of H3K4me3 sites, including at Hoxa, Hoxb, and Meis1. Treatment of NP23 cells with disulfiram, which inhibits the binding of PHD motifs to H3K4me3, rapidly and selectively killed NP23-expressing myeloblasts; cell death was preceded by decreased expression of Hoxa, Hoxb, and Meis1. Furthermore, AML driven by a related fusion gene, NUP98–JARID1A (NJL), was also sensitive to disulfiram. Thus, the NP23 mouse provides a platform to evaluate compounds that disrupt binding of oncogenic PHD proteins to H3K4me3.

Significance: NP23 and NJL belong to a subset of chromatin-modifying fusion oncoproteins that cause leukemia characterized by overexpression of Hoxa and Meis1 genes. Inhibition of NP23 binding to H3K4me3 at Hoxa and Meis1 loci by disulfiram, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved drug, leads to leukemic cell death, demonstrating the feasibility of targeting this subset of oncoproteins. Cancer Discov; 4(5); 564–77. ©2014 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 495
Reduced NF1 Expression Confers Resistance to EGFR Inhibition in Lung Cancer
Authors: de Bruin Elza C. , Cowell Catherine , Warne Patricia H. , Jiang Ming , Saunders Rebecca E. , Melnick Mary Ann , Gettinger Scott , Walther Zenta , Wurtz Anna , Heynen Guus J. , Heideman Daniëlle A.M. , Gómez-Román Javier , García-Castaño Almudena , Gong Yixuan , Ladanyi Marc , Varmus Harold , Bernards René , Smit Egbert F. , Politi Katerina , Downward Julian
Published: February 2014

Activating mutations in the EGF receptor (EGFR) are associated with clinical responsiveness to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), such as erlotinib and gefitinib. However, resistance eventually arises, often due to a second EGFR mutation, most commonly T790M. Through a genome-wide siRNA screen in a human lung cancer cell line and analyses of murine mutant EGFR-driven lung adenocarcinomas, we found that erlotinib resistance was associated with reduced expression of neurofibromin, the RAS GTPase-activating protein encoded by the NF1 gene. Erlotinib failed to fully inhibit RAS–ERK signaling when neurofibromin levels were reduced. Treatment of neurofibromin-deficient lung cancers with a MAP–ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor restored sensitivity to erlotinib. Low levels of NF1 expression were associated with primary and acquired resistance of lung adenocarcinomas to EGFR TKIs in patients. These findings identify a subgroup of patients with EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma who might benefit from combination therapy with EGFR and MEK inhibitors.

Significance: The emergence of resistance to EGFR TKIs is a major clinical challenge in the treatment of lung adenocarcinomas driven by mutations in EGFR. This study suggests that, in a subset of patients, resistance is caused by reduced neurofibromin expression, and that in these cases there may be clinical benefit to combining EGFR TKIs with MEK inhibitors. Cancer Discov; 4(5); 606–19. ©2014 AACR.

See related commentary by Maertens and Cichowski, p. 519

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 495
Alterations of Global Histone H3K9 and H3K27 Methylation Levels in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Ellinger Jörg , Bachmann Anne , Göke Friederike , Behbahani Turang E. , Baumann Claudia , Heukamp Lukas C. , Rogenhofer Sebastian , Müller Stefan C.
Published: February 2014

Background: Epigenetic alterations, including histone modifications, play an important role during carcinogenesis. This study was designed to systematically investigate histone H3K9 and H3K27 methylation levels in bladder cancer (BCa) tissue. Methods: A tissue microarray with urothelial BCa (150 non-muscle-invasive BCa, NMIBC; 121 muscle-invasive BCa, MIBC; 31 metastatic BCa, MET) and normal urothelium (29, CTRL) specimen was used to determine the global levels of H3K9 and H3K27 mono-, di- and tri-methylation. Results: Global levels of H3K9 and H3K27 methylation were significantly higher in CTRL than in BCa, and levels in NMIBC were higher compared to MIBC. Histone methylation levels of MET resembled MIBC. We observed furthermore a correlation of histone methylation levels with pT stage (H3K9me1, H3K9me2, H3K9me3, H3K27me1, H3K27me3) and grade (H3K9me2, H3K9me3, H3K27me1) in NMIBC. H3K9me1, H3K9me3, H3K27me1 and H3K27me3 levels were also correlated with pT stage in MIBC. Histone modifications were not associated with recurrence-free or cancer-specific survival. Conclusions: Global histone H3K9 and H3K27 methylation levels are altered in BCa.
Triptolide Improves Early Survival of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transplanted into Rat Myocardium
Authors: Zhang Changhai , Nong Yaoming , Tong Shifei , Yao Qing , Wen Lei , Zhang Zhihui , Wei Lu , Cheng Jun , Feng Yuanyuan , Song Zhiyuan
Published: February 2014

Objective: To investigate whether triptolide can prolong the survival of rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transfected with the mouse hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channel 4 (mHCN4) gene in the myocardium. Methods: Grafted cell survival was determined using a sex-mismatched cell transplantation model and analysis of Y chromosome-specific Sry gene expression from hearts harvested at different time points after cell transplantation. ELISA and RT-PCR were used to measure protein and mRNA levels, respectively, of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNF-a. Results: Donor cell numbers decreased over time. Pretreatment with triptolide improved graft survival both 24 (29.3 ± 0.9%) and 72 h (17.5 ± 1.2%) after transplantation of MSCs and resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in the total cell number 72 h after cell transplantation. The mRNA expression and protein content of NF-κB, IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNF-a were significantly reduced in the triptolide-treated group compared with the control groups. In addition, triptolide downregulated Bax but upregulated Bcl-2 in the injected region. Conclusions: Transient treatment with triptolide may significantly improve the early survival of MSCs in vivo. The mechanism underlying this effect involves attenuating the inflammatory response via inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Ayurvedic Medicine and the Lung
Authors: Lim Chiao Yuen , Takano Angela , Yang Steve , Lee Pyng
Published: February 2014

A middle-aged Indian woman with knee pain had consumed ayurvedic medicine (Ostolief and Arthrella tablets) daily for 6 months. She presented to the respiratory clinic with worsening dyspnea, cough and weight loss of 2 months' duration. She was a homemaker, never-smoker and did not keep birds. Physical examination detected fine end-inspiratory crackles. There was no clubbing of the fingers, joint deformity or swelling, skin lesion or enlarged cervical lymphadenopathy. High-resolution computed tomography showed diffuse centrilobular nodules with ground-glass attenuation. Restrictive ventilatory defect (FVC 44% predicted, FEV1/FVC ratio 93%) was observed on spirometry, and the autoimmune screen was negative. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid revealed lymphocytosis with an increased CD4/CD8 (T helper:T suppressor) ratio. Cultures for bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi, viruses and Pneumocystis carinii were negative. Alveolitis with infiltration of interstitium by lymphocytes and peribronchiolar noncaseating granulomas were observed on bronchoscopic lung biopsy. A diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis as a result of ayurvedic medicine was made. She was advised to stop the offending medicine; high-dose steroids and bactrim prophylaxis were commenced and tapered over 3 months with good response and radiological resolution. She was followed for 1 year without relapse.
der(5;17)(p10;q10) Is a Recurrent But Rare Whole-Arm Translocation in Patients with Hematological Neoplasms: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Manabe Masahiro , Okita Junya , Takakuwa Teruhito , Harada Naonori , Aoyama Yasutaka , Kumura Takeo , Ohta Tadanobu , Furukawa Yoshio , Mugitani Atsuko
Published: February 2014

We report the cases of 3 patients with hematological malignancies and complex karyotypes involving der(5;17)(p10;q10), which results in the loss of 5q and 17p. Although deletions of 5q and 17p are recurrent abnormalities in hematological disease, only about 20 cases harboring der(5;17)(p10;q10) have been reported. We address the tumorigenesis and morphological characteristics of hematological malignancies involving der(5;17)(p10;q10), along with a review of the literature.
The Perception of Facial Emotions - Cues from the Left Amygdaloid Complex
Authors: Calabrese Pasquale , Markowitsch Hans J. , Carota Antonio
Published: February 2014

The history and the behavioral profile of 2 patients with brain abnormalities in the region of the left amygdaloidal complex might suggest that the dysfunction of the neural pathways related to the left amygdala has to occur at an early developmental stage to result in impaired emotional judgments of facial expressions. This is in line with the hypothesis that emotional information processing is based on a distributed neural network which, during ontogenesis, gradually expands from the amygdala and the amygdaloidal complex to further components of the limbic system.
Predicting Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section: A Cohort Study
Authors: Tessmer-Tuck Jennifer A. , El-Nashar Sherif A. , Racek Adrianne R. , Lohse Christine M. , Famuyide Abimbola O. , Wick Myra J.
Published: February 2014

Objective: To develop a model to predict vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in our population and to compare the accuracy of this model to the accuracy of a previously published widely used model. Materials and Methods: Women attempting trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) at our institution from January 1, 2000 through May 30, 2010 were evaluated for inclusion. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Associations of these characteristics with VBAC were evaluated with univariate and multivariate logistic regression. We critically compared the accuracy of the resulting model to a previously published widely utilized model for predicting VBAC. Results: A total of 2,635 deliveries with at least 1 prior cesarean delivery were identified. TOLAC was attempted in 599 (22.7%) and resulted in 456 VBACs (76.0%) and 143 repeat cesareans (24.0%). VBAC success was independently associated with age <30 years, a body mass index <30, prior vaginal delivery, prior VBAC, and absence of a recurrent indication for cesarean. This model provided a range of successful probability of VBAC (38-98%) with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.723. Conclusions: This study provides an accurate and simple model that can be utilized to guide decisions related to TOLAC.
Visual Acuity in Mammals: Effects of Eye Size and Ecology
Authors: Veilleux Carrie C. , Kirk E. Christopher
Published: February 2014

Previous comparative research has attributed interspecific variation in eye size among mammals to selection related to visual acuity. Mammalian species have also been hypothesized to differ in visual acuity partly as a result of differences in ecology. While a number of prior studies have explored ecological and phylogenetic effects on eye shape, a broad comparative analysis of the relationships between visual acuity, eye size and ecology in mammals is currently lacking. Here we use phylogenetic comparative methods to explore these relationships in a taxonomically and ecologically diverse sample of 91 mammal species. These data confirm that axial eye length and visual acuity are significantly positively correlated in mammals. This relationship conforms to expectations based on theoretical optics and prior analyses of smaller comparative samples. Our data also demonstrate that higher visual acuity in mammals is associated with: (1) diurnality and (2) predatory habits once the effects of eye size and phylogeny have been statistically controlled. These results suggest that interspecific variation in mammalian visual acuity is the result of a complex interplay between phylogenetic history, visual anatomy and ecology.
Macrolides Attenuate Phorbol Ester-Induced Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Mucin Production from Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Poachanukoon Orapan , Koontongkaew Sittichai , Monthanapisut Paopanga , Pattanacharoenchai Napaporn
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: Macrolide antibiotics are effective drugs in chronic bronchiolitis and chronic rhinosinusitis with mucus hypersecretion. However, the mechanism of action is unclear. This study was designed to investigate the effect of azithromycin (AZM; 15-membered) and midecamycin acetate (MDM; 16-membered) on MUC5AC and MUC2 gene expression and secretion from human airway epithelial cells. The effects of the two macrolides on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) release were also examined. Methods: Confluent NCI-H292 human mucoepidermoid airways epithelial cells were pretreated with AZM or MDM for 2 h and then stimulated with 200 nmol/l phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) for 8 h. The MUC5AC and MUC2 gene expression was measured by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. Total mucin in culture supernatants was measured using enzyme-linked lectin assay. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine MUC5AC, MUC2 and TNF-α released by the cells. Results: AZM and MDM attenuated PMA-induced MUC5AC and MUC2 gene and protein expression in NCI-H292 cells. They also suppressed PMA-mediated TNF-α in the cells. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that AZM and MDM suppress the synthesis of mucin and TNF-α from human airway epithelial cells.
Endothelial Dysfunction in an Ovine Model of Collagen-Induced Arthritis
Authors: Dooley Laura M. , Washington Elizabeth A. , Abdalmula Anwar , Tudor Elizabeth M. , Kimpton Wayne G. , Bailey Simon R.
Published: February 2014

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) induces systemic inflammation, producing a range of co-morbidities including cardiovascular disease. An early vascular change is endothelial dysfunction, characterized by reduced endothelium-dependent vasodilation. The aim of this study was to assess endothelial function in isolated coronary and digital arteries using an ovine model of collagen-induced RA. Methods: Sheep were culled following induction of arthritis, and their endothelial function was compared to that of normal sheep. Paired arterial segments were mounted in a wire myograph and dilated with endothelium-dependent vasodilators [bradykinin, serotonin, carbachol and adenosine diphosphate (ADP); linked to either Gi or Gq signalling pathways] and endothelium-independent dilators (adenosine and sodium nitroprusside) to construct cumulative concentration-response curves. Results: Coronary arteries from arthritic sheep exhibited a significantly greater EC50 value for bradykinin-induced relaxation compared to non-arthritic controls (2.9 × 10-8M for arthritic sheep vs. 8.6 × 10-9M for controls). Digital arteries from arthritic sheep also exhibited a significantly greater EC50 for relaxation to ADP and a significant decrease in the carbachol maximal response. Responses to sodium nitroprusside were unchanged in both coronary and digital arteries. Conclusion: Sheep with RA demonstrated attenuated arterial relaxation to endothelium-dependent vasodilators. This may provide a useful model of endothelial dysfunction in chronic inflammatory conditions. The dysfunction did not appear to be associated with one specific G-protein signalling pathway.
The Meta-Genome of Sepsis: Host Genetics, Pathogens and the Acute Immune Response
Authors: Boyd John H. , Russell James A. , Fjell Chris D.
Published: February 2014

Severe infection and the patient response constitute sepsis. Here, we review the meta-genome (patient genetics, pathogen communities and host response) and its impact upon the outcome of severe sepsis. Patient genetics, both predisposition for infection and the subsequent response to infection are reviewed. The pathogen is discussed with particular emphasis upon the modern era of microbiome analysis and nucleic acid diagnostics. Finally, we discuss the host clinical and immune responses and present new data to suggest that the immune response is the key to understanding sepsis and improving a death rate of nearly 30%.
The Latin Translations of Josephus on Jesus, John the Baptist, and James: Critical Texts of the Latin Translation of the Antiquities and Rufinus’ Translation of Eusebius’ Ecclesiastical History Based on Manuscripts and Early Printed Editions
Authors: Levenson David B. , Martin Thomas R.
Published: February 2014

Abstract

This article presents the first critical texts of the passages on Jesus, John the Baptist, and James in the Latin translation of Josephus’ Antiquitates Iudaicae and the sections of the Latin Table of Contents for AJ 18 where the references to Jesus and John the Baptist appear. A commentary on these Latin texts is also provided. Since no critical edition of the Latin text of Antiquities 6-20 exists, these are also the first critical texts of any passages from these books. The critical apparatus includes a complete list of variant readings from thirty-seven manuscripts (9th-15th c.e.) and all the printed editions from the 1470 editio princeps to the 1524 Basel edition. Because the passages in the Latin AJ on Jesus and John the Baptist were based on Rufinus’ translation of Eusebius’ Historia Ecclesiastica, a new text of these passages in Rufinus is provided that reports more variant readings than are included in Mommsen’s GCS edition. A Greek text for these passages with revised apparatus correcting and expanding the apparatuses in Niese’s editio maior of Josephus and Schwartz’s GCS edition of Eusebius is also provided. In addition to presenting a text and commentary for the passages in the Latin Antiquities and Rufinus’ translation of Eusebius, there is catalogue of collated manuscripts and all the early printed editions through 1524, providing a new scholarly resource for further work on the Latin text of the Antiquities.
Potamotrygon limai, sp. nov., a new species of freshwater stingray from the upper Madeira River system, Amazon basin (Chondrichthyes: Potamotrygonidae)
Authors: FONTENELLE JOÃO PEDRO , DA SILVA JOÃO PAULO C. B. , DE CARVALHO MARCELO R.
Published: February 2014

Potamotrygon limai, sp. nov., is described from the Jamari River, upper Madeira River system (Amazon basin), state of Rondônia, Brazil. This new species differs from congeners by presenting unique polygonal or concentric patterns formed by small whitish spots better defined over the posterior disc and tail-base regions. Potamotrygon limai, sp. nov., can be further distinguished from congeners in the same basin by other characters in combination, such as two to three rows of midtail spines converging to a single irregular row at level of caudal sting origin, proportions of head, tail and disc, patterns of dermal denticles on rostral, cranial and tail regions, among other features discussed herein. Potamotrygon limai, sp. nov., is most similar to, and occurs sympatrically with, P. scobina, and is distinguished from it by lacking ocellated spots on disc, by its characteristic polygonal pattern on posterior disc, a comparatively much shorter and broader tail, greater intensity of denticles on disc, more midtail spine rows at tail-base, and other features including size at maturity and meristic characters. Potamotrygon limai, sp. nov., is also distinguished from other species of Potamotrygon occurring in the Amazon region, except P. scobina, by presenting three angular cartilages (vs. two or one). This new species was discovered during a detailed taxonomic and morphological revision of the closely related species P. scobina, and highlights the necessity for thorough and all-embracing taxonomic studies, particularly in groups with pronounced endemism and morphological variability.
Thysanoptera intercepted in the Netherlands on plant products from Ethiopia, with description of two new species of the genus Thrips
Authors: VIERBERGEN GIJSBERTUS
Published: February 2014

An overview is given of 18 Thysanoptera species found on Ethiopian cut flowers, cuttings and vegetables during import inspection in the Netherlands. Consignments consisted mostly of cut flowers, in total belonging to twelve plant genera. Details on geographical distribution and host plants of the thrips encountered are given, and two are newly described: T. cacuminis sp. n. and T. dezeeuwi sp. n. The results do not give any serious indication of increased invasiveness by Ethiopian Thysanoptera.
China’s 2008 Labor Contract Law: Implementation and implications for China’s workers
Authors: Gallagher Mary , Giles John , Park Albert , Wang Meiyan
Published: February 2014

This article presents empirical evidence from household and firm survey data collected during 2009−2010 on the implementation of the 2008 Labor Contract Law and effects on China’s workers. The Government and local labor bureaus have made substantial efforts to enforce the provisions of the new Law, which has likely contributed to reversing a trend toward increasing informalization of the urban labor market. Enforcement of the Law, however, varies substantially across cities. The article analyzes the determinants of worker satisfaction with the Law’s enforcement, workers’ propensity to have a labor contract, their awareness of the Law’s content and their likelihood of initiating disputes, and finds that all are highly correlated with education level, especially for migrants. Although higher labor costs may have had a negative impact on manufacturing employment growth, this has not led to an overall increase in aggregate unemployment or prevented the rapid growth of real wages. Less progress has been made in increasing social insurance coverage, although signing a labor contract is more likely to be associated with participation in social insurance programs than in the past, particularly for migrant workers.
Defined by our hierarchy? How hierarchical positions shape our identifications and well-being at work
Authors: Horton Kate E , McClelland Charlotte R , Griffin Mark A
Published: February 2014

We explore the influence of hierarchy on workers’ identification and well-being. Specifically, we hypothesize that the accessibility of different identity targets will vary according to the distinct priorities and perspectives found at different hierarchical levels, and that this will have implications for the identification and well-being of workers operating in these different positions. Testing our predictions in a sample of 789 naval personnel we find strong support for our hypotheses. Specifically, we find that individuals in operational positions identify strongly with their career and functional workgroups and that these attachments are important in predicting their affective well-being. In contrast, the identifications and well-being of personnel in mid-level and strategic positions are more strongly tied to career and organizational identities respectively. This research provides new insights into the nature and impact of patterns of identification in the workplace, with important theoretical and practical implications for the affective well-being of workers.
Homeless and unclaimed persons' deaths in north India (Jan 2008–Nov 2012): A retrospective study
Authors: Kumar Sachil , Verma Anoop K , Ali Wahid , Singh Uma Shankar
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Homeless and unclaimed dead bodies are a social as well as legal stigma on a country's development index. In addition, homeless people are exposed to increased incidence of diseases, accidents and mortality. Lucknow city, a city situated in the heart of the great Gangetic plain in the northern region of India, is surrounded by rural towns and villages and has seen tremendous growth in the past few years; with this the problem of migrants and homelessness has also increased. This has resulted in a spectrum of problems relating to law and order, including frequent incidences of unclaimed dead bodies, both due to natural and unnatural causes. Few studies on this subject have been published in India.

Study design

Observational retrospective study.

Methods

Data was collected from the files of the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology between 2008 and 2012.

Results

A total of 20877 autopsy cases were registered, out of which 3169 (15.17%) were unclaimed bodies. The majority of cases belonged to males (2218, 69.99%) as compared to females (951, 30.01%). Most unclaimed bodies were in the age group of 41–60 years (47.24%) and the least affected age group was 1–20 years (265, 8.36%). The most common manner of death was accident (1098, 34.64%), followed by suicide (1062, 33.51%), natural (927, 29.25%) and homicides (82, 2.59%). The most common cause of natural death in both males and females was chronic lung disease. Railway and road traffic accidents accounted for 516 (68.25%) accidental deaths in males, whereas in females they accounted for 301(88.01%). The most common mode of suicide among males was by poisoning (391, 48.81%), while poisoning (149, 57.08), hanging (78, 29.88%) and drowning (23, 8.81%) were the main modes of suicide in females reported in our study. Majority of the cases of deaths were reported during rainy season (2209, 69.70%).

Conclusions

This autopsy-based study tries to highlight the picture of homeless deaths in Lucknow and the problems faced by the law enforcing authorities. More research is needed to identify the health-related problems of such people and possible contributory factors to mortality.
‘Islamic Capital’ and Family Life: The Role of Islam in Parenting
Authors: Franceschelli Michela , O’Brien Margaret
Published: February 2014

Much sociological research using Bourdieu’s theory to analyse intergenerational reproduction tends to focus on the educational rather than the familial aspect of this process. Instead, this article explores habitus and the family field within South Asian Muslim communities in the UK as the site of intergenerational transmission and seeks to understand how these parents pass on values to their children. Based on 52 semi-structured interviews with 15 South Asian Muslim families, the findings suggest that Islam was mobilised by parents to inform the transmission of a sense of morality, support children’s education and reinforce family ties. The concept of ‘Islamic capital’ was developed to add specificity to Bourdieu’s ideas of family spirit and cultural capital in order to capture the dynamics between parents and their children. In the context of multicultural Britain, these findings shed light on the diversity of parenting to inform family support grounded in the understanding of different communities.
Feminist publicist strategies: Women’s NGOs’ media activism and television journalism in Serbia and Croatia
Authors: Minić Danica
Published: February 2014

This article defines feminist media activism in terms of counter-public communication and provides a brief overview of activities, functions, types of activists and historical contexts relevant to this kind of feminist activism. Following this research approach, it then examines the specific cases of feminist media activism in post-authoritarian and post-conflict Serbia and Croatia. More specifically, it looks into women’s NGOs’ (non-governmental organizations) attempts to advance gender equality perspectives in and through the television media through providing education for journalists and acting as television sources and pundits. It shows how NGO education can be an effective means of creating pockets of pro-feminist journalism in the mainstream media, whereas feminist activists’ performance as television sources results in more mixed outcomes. While some activists’ television appearances established women’s NGOs as credible parties in popular discussions about gender, other activists shied away from television due to what they saw as anti-analytical, confrontational and stereotypical approaches to feminism on television. Finally, the article identifies the main factors in contemporary Serbian and Croatian societies resulting in comparatively better opportunities for feminist media activism in Croatia than in Serbia.
New directions in developmental emotion regulation research across the life span
Authors: Zimmermann Peter , Thompson Ross A.
Published: February 2014

Research on the development of emotion regulation has become a prominent topic in developmental science covering a broad age range from infancy to old age because of its theoretical importance and practical implications. This introductory essay of this special section includes reflections on some of the conceptual themes of this research field and thoughts about its future directions.