bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Alignment of Pairwise Protein Interaction Networks for Maximal Common Conserved Patterns
Authors: Tian Wenhong , Samatova Nagiza F.
Published: March 2013

A number of tools for the alignment of protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks have laid the foundation for PPI network analysis. Most of alignment tools focus on finding conserved interaction regions across the PPI networks through either local or global mapping of similar sequences. Researchers are still trying to improve the speed, scalability, and accuracy of network alignment. In view of this, we introduce a connected-components based fast algorithm, HopeMap, for network alignment. Observing that the size of true orthologs across species is small comparing to the total number of proteins in all species, we take a different approach based on a precompiled list of homologs identified by KO terms. Applying this approach toS. cerevisiae(yeast) andD. melanogaster(fly),E. coliK12 andS. typhimurium,E. coliK12 andC. crescenttus, we analyze all clusters identified in the alignment. The results are evaluated through up-to-date known gene annotations, gene ontology (GO), and KEGG ortholog groups (KO). Comparing to existing tools, our approach is fast with linear computational cost, highly accurate in terms of KO and GO terms specificity and sensitivity, and can be extended to multiple alignments easily.
Multiple Positive Solutions to Multipoint Boundary Value Problem for a System of Second-Order Nonlinear Semipositone Differential Equations on Time Scales
Authors: Wu Gang , Li Longsuo , Cong Xinrong , Miao Xiufeng
Published: March 2013

We study a system of second-order dynamic equations on time scales(p1u1∇)Δ(t)-q1(t)u1(t)+λf1(t,u1(t),u2(t))=0,t∈(t1,tn),(p2u2∇)Δ(t)-q2(t)u2(t)+λf2(t,u1(t),u2(t))=0, satisfying four kinds of different multipoint boundary value conditions,fiis continuous and semipositone. We derive an interval ofλsuch that anyλlying in this interval, the semipositone coupled boundary value problem has multiple positive solutions. The arguments are based upon fixed-point theorems in a cone.
Continuous Natural Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites by Fiber Surface Modification
Authors: Wongsriraksa Patcharat , Togashi Kohsuke , Nakai Asami , Hamada Hiroyuki
Published: March 2013

Continuous natural fiber reinforced thermoplastic materials are expected to replace inorganic fiber reinforced thermosetting materials. However, in the process of fabricating the composite, it is difficult to impregnate the thermoplastic resin into reinforcement fiber because of the high melt viscosity. Therefore, intermediate material, which allows high impregnation during molding, has been investigated for fabricating continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite by aligning resin fiber alongside reinforcing fiber with braiding technique. This intermediate material has been called “microbraid yarn (MBY.)” Moreover, it is well known that the interfacial properties between natural fiber and resin are low; therefore, surface treatment on continuous natural fiber was performed by using polyurethane (PU) and flexible epoxy (FLEX) to improve the interfacial properties. The effect of surface treatment on the mechanical properties of continuous natural fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites was examined. From these results, it was suggested that surface treatment by PU with low content could produce composites with better mechanical properties.
Mean Platelet Volume Reflect Hematopoietic Potency and Correlated Blood Group O in Cord Blood from Healthy Newborn
Authors: Lee Hye Ryun , Park Jeong Su , Shin Sue , Roh Eun Youn , Yoon Jong Hyun , Song Eun Young , Kim Byung Jae , Chang Ju Young
Published: March 2013

We evaluated the relationship between mean platelet volume (MPV) and characteristics of 10,577 cord blood (CB) units in a public CB bank in Korea. Blood group O has the highest MPV (P= 0.002). MPV correlated with CB volume (r=0.121), Hb (r=0.377), WBC (r=0.111), TNCs (r=0.110), CD34+ cell (r=0.174), CD34+ cells/TNCs (r=0.157), gestational age (r= −0.102), and birth weight (r=0.023); (P<0.001in all). MPV may be one of the useful decision parameters of process priority in CB bank.
A Modified Mann Iteration by Boundary Point Method for Finding Minimum-Norm Fixed Point of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: He Songnian , Zhu Wenlong
Published: March 2013

LetHbe a real Hilbert space andC⊂H a closed convex subset. LetT:C→Cbe a nonexpansive mapping with the nonempty set of fixed pointsFix(T). Kim and Xu (2005) introduced a modified Mann iterationx0=x∈C,yn=αnxn+(1−αn)Txn,xn+1=βnu+(1−βn)yn, whereu∈Cis an arbitrary (but fixed) element, and{αn}and{βn}are two sequences in(0,1). In the case where0∈C, the minimum-norm fixed point ofTcan be obtained by takingu=0. But in the case where0∉C, this iteration process becomes invalid becausexnmay not belong toC. In order to overcome this weakness, we introduce a new modified Mann iteration by boundary point method (see Section 3 for details) for finding the minimum norm fixed point of Tand prove its strong convergence under some assumptions. Since our algorithm does not involve the computation of the metric projectionPC, which is often used so that the strong convergence is guaranteed, it is easy implementable. Our results improve and extend the results of Kim, Xu, and some others.
High-Temperature (1700–1800°C) Electrochemical Preparation of Metallic Ti from Rutile: A Pathway of Step-by-Step Electrodeoxidization
Authors: Meng Fanke , Lu Huimin
Published: March 2013

The mechanism of producing metallic titanium by electrochemically reducing rutile (TiO2) at high temperatures was studied. First, the oxygen was successfully electroremoved from TiO2 at temperatures 1700, 1750, and 1800°C in molten CaF2 under a stable electrolytic potential of 2.5 V. Second, the electrodeoxidization process was studied with cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests at 1750°C. It was found that the electrochemical reduction for preparing metallic Ti from TiO2 at the high temperatures can be divided into several steps. In other words, the oxygen in TiO2 was electro-removed as a step-by-step pathway (TiO2→Ti4O7→Ti3O5/Ti2O3→TiO→Ti) at different electrolytic potentials. It unraveled the mechanism of electrochemical reduction of TiO2 at the high temperatures, which is helpful for monitoring the reduction procedure.
Notetaking Instruction Enhances Students’ Science Learning
Authors: Lee Pai-Lin , Wang Chiao-Li , Hamman Douglas , Hsiao Ching-Hsiang , Huang Chuang-Hua
Published: March 2013

Students face various learning challenges in their daily life. Teachers should teach them learning strategies to accommodate demands. One hundred ten fifth graders were randomly assigned to three groups: strategic notetaking, partial strategic notetaking, and control group, with three levels (high versus medium versus low) according to their prior science achievement. The levels also functioned as one independent variable in the MANCOVA analysis, with writing speed as covariate. The results showed significant treatment main effects in support of strategic and partial strategic groups on the measurements of board cued, verbal cued, and noncued information units. The high science achievement group outperformed the low one on the task of verbal cued, whereas the medium outperformed the low one on comprehension multiple-choice test. The study suggested notetaking as an effective learning strategy that can be taught to elementary students.
Increased Small Dense LDL and Decreased Paraoxonase Enzyme Activity Reveals Formation of an Atherogenic Risk in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Guinea Pigs
Authors: Aslan Mutay , Ozcan Filiz , Kucuksayan Ertan
Published: March 2013

This study aimed to investigate LDL subfraction distribution as well as serum cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), and paraoxonase (PON1) activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic guinea pigs.Materials/Methods. Guinea pigs were given a single intraperitoneal (ip) injection of streptozotocin (STZ) and animals having fasting blood glucose levels greater than 200 mg/dl, were considered diabetic. Protein levels of LCAT and CETP were determined via ELISA. Paraoxonase activity was measured kinetically by the formation of phenol while LDL subfraction analysis was done by disc polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.Results. Plasma glucose and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were significantly increased while total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol were significantly decreased in diabetic guinea pigs compared to controls. LDL subfraction analysis revealed a significant decrease in nonatherogenic LDL-2 subfraction and a significant increase in atherogenic LDL-4 subfraction in diabetic guinea pigs compared to controls. Plasma CETP and PON1 levels were significantly decreased while LCAT showed no significant difference in diabetic guinea pigs compared to controls.Conclusion. Decreased non-atherogenic LDL-1, LDL-2 subfractions, increased small dense LDL-4 subfraction, and decreased PON1 activity, reveals formation of an atherogenic risk in diabetic guinea pigs. Decrease in CETP levels supports the observed increase in HDL cholesterol levels in diabetic guinea pigs.
Natural Killer Cells and Their Activation Status in Normal Pregnancy
Authors: Mosimann Beatrice , Wagner Marion , Shehata Hassan , Poon Leona C. Y. , Ford Brian , Nicolaides Kypros H. , Bansal Amolak S.
Published: March 2013

Increased peripheral blood-activated NK cell counts are associated with increased risk of miscarriage and failed in vitro fertilization treatment. However, assessment of activated peripheral NK cells in normal and pathological pregnancies beyond implantation and early miscarriage has not been described. Total CD69 expressing NK cells counts were measured by flow cytometry in healthy women with singleton pregnancies, including 45 at 11+6–13+6weeks’ gestation, 46 at 20+0–22+4weeks, and 42 at 31+6–33+5weeks. The number of peripheral blood NK cells decreased, whereas the percentage of activated CD69 expressing NK cells increased from the first to the third trimester of pregnancy. This study shows the course of peripheral blood NK cells and activated CD69 expressing NK cells in uncomplicated nulliparous singleton pregnancies. This is a first step in understanding their implication in pathological pregnancies.
An Ectopic Breast Tissue Presenting with Fibroadenoma in Axilla
Authors: Amaranathan Anandhi , Balaguruswamy Kanchana , Bhat Ramachandra V. , Bora Manash Kumar
Published: March 2013

Introduction. The congenital anomalies of breast, especially the polymastia (supernumerary breast) and polythelia (supernumerary nipple), always do not fail to amuse the clinicians because of their varied presentations, associated renal anomalies, and pathologies arising from them. The axillary polymastia is a variant of ectopic breast tissue (EBT). Ectopic breast tissue can undergo the same physiological and pathological processes as the normally located breast. The incidence of fibroadenoma developing in ectopic breast is reported as a rare entity, the most common being the carcinoma.Case Presentation. A 31-year-old Dravidian female presented with a lump of 4 cm in the right axilla for the past year which gradually increased in size, giving discomfort. Our initial differential diagnosis was fibroadenoma, lipoma, and lymphadenopathy. Further investigation and histopathological report of excision biopsy confirmed it as a fibroadenoma on ectopic breast tissue in the axilla. Patient has no associated urological or cardiac anomaly.Conclusion. This case has been reported for its rarity and to reemphasise the importance of screening of EBT for any pathology during routine screening of breast.
Valuation of the Prepayment Option of a Perpetual Corporate Loan
Authors: Papin Timothee , Turinici Gabriel
Published: March 2013

We investigate in this paper a perpetual prepayment option related to a corporate loan. The default intensity of the firm is supposed to follow a CIR process. We assume that the contractual margin of the loan is defined by the credit quality of the borrower and the liquidity cost that reflects the funding cost of the bank. Two frameworks are discussed: firstly a loan margin without liquidity cost and secondly a multiregime framework with a liquidity cost dependent on the regime. The prepayment option needs specific attention as the payoff itself is an implicit function of the parameters of the problem and of the dynamics. In the unique regime case, we establish quasianalytic formulas for the payoff of the option; in both cases we give a verification result that allows for the computation of the price of the option. Numerical results that implement the findings are also presented and are completely consistent with the theory; it is seen that when liquidity parameters are very different (i.e., when a liquidity crisis occurs) in the high liquidity cost regime, the exercise domain may entirely disappear, meaning that it is not optimal for the borrower to prepay during such a liquidity crisis. The method allows for quantification and interpretation of these findings.
The Effect of Anisotropy on Light Extraction of Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Photonic Crystal Structure
Authors: Xu Wei , Li Yang
Published: March 2013

The light extraction efficiency of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLED) is greatly limited due to the difference in refractive indexes between materials of OLED. We fabricated OLED with photonic crystal microstructures in the interface between the glass substrate and the ITO anode. The light extraction efficiency can be improved by utilizing photonic crystals; however, the anisotropy effect of light extraction was clearly observed in experiment. To optimize the device performance, the effect of photonic crystal on both light extraction and angular distribution was investigated using finite‐difference time domain (FDTD) method. We simulated the photonic crystals with the structure of square lattice and triangle lattice. We analyzed the improvement of these structures in the light extraction efficiency of the OLED and the influence of arrangement, depth, period, and diameter on anisotropy. The optimized geometric parameters were provided, which will provide the theoretical support for designing the high performance OLED.
Domestication, Conservation, and Livelihoods: A Case Study of Piper peepuloides Roxb.—An Important Nontimber Forest Product in South Meghalaya, Northeast India
Authors: Tynsong H. , Dkhar M. , Tiwari B. K.
Published: March 2013

Wild pepper (Piper peepuloides Roxb., family: Piperaceae) is an evergreen climber which grows wild in tropical evergreen forests and subtropical evergreen forests of northeast India. This plant grows luxuriantly in the areas with high rainfall at lower elevations ranging from 100 to 800 m above mean sea level. In Meghalaya, to meet the market demand, farmers have domesticated it in arecanut agroforests and betel leaf agroforests. We found that the mean density of wild pepper in arecanut agroforest is 585 stem/ha and only 85 stem/ha in natural forest. In India, wild pepper is used in a variety of Ayurvedic medicines. Local people of Meghalaya uses powdered dry seeds mixed with honey and egg yolk for the treatment of severe cough. The study reveals that the average gross annual production of wild pepper is 7 quintals/ha, and final market price fetches Rs. 336,000/ha, out of which 42% of the money goes to the grower, 16% to local trader, 23% to dealer, 17% to retailer, 1.2% to wages of labourers, and 0.6% to transport.
Relationship of Early-Onset Baldness to Prostate Cancer in African-American Men
Authors: Zeigler-Johnson Charnita , Morales Knashawn H. , Spangler Elaine , Chang Bao-Li , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: March 2013

Background: Early-onset baldness has been linked to prostate cancer; however, little is known about this relationship in AfricanAmericans who are at elevated prostate cancer risk.

Methods: We recruited 219 African-American controls and 318 African-American prostate cancer cases. We determined age-stratified associations of baldness with prostate cancer occurrence and severity defined by high stage (T3/T4) or high grade (Gleason 7+.) Associations of androgen metabolism genotypes (CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP3A43, AR-CAG, SRD5A2 A49T, and SRD5A2 V89L), family history, alcohol intake, and smoking were examined by baldness status and age group by using multivariable logistic regression models.

Results: Baldness was associated with odds of prostate cancer [OR = 1.69; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05–2.74]. Frontal baldness was associated with high-stage (OR = 2.61; 95% CI, 1.10–6.18) and high-grade (OR = 2.20; 95% CI, 1.05–4.61) tumors. For men diagnosed less than the age of 60 years, frontal baldness was associated with high stage (OR = 6.51; 95% CI, 2.11–20.06) and high grade (OR = 4.23; 95% CI, 1.47–12.14). We also observed a suggestion of an interaction among smoking, median age, and any baldness (P = 0.02).

Conclusions: We observed significant associations between early-onset baldness and prostate cancer in African-American men. Interactions with age and smoking were suggested in these associations. Studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms influencing the relationship between baldness and prostate cancer in African-American men.

Impact: African-American men present with unique risk factors including baldness patterns that may contribute to prostate cancer disparities. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(4); 589–96. ©2013 AACR.
Potent Antimyeloma Activity of a Novel ERK5/CDK Inhibitor
Authors: Álvarez-Fernández Stela , Ortiz-Ruiz María Jesús , Parrott Tracy , Zaknoen Sara , Ocio Enrique M. , San Miguel Jesús , Burrows Francis J. , Esparís-Ogando Azucena , Pandiella Atanasio
Published: March 2013

Purpose: To analyze the antimyeloma potential of TG02, an ERK5/CDK inhibitory drug.

Experimental Design: Utilizing different multiple myeloma cell lines we determined the effect of TG02 over viability by MTT assays. The apoptotic effect over multiple myeloma patient samples was studied ex vivo by cytometry. The mechanism of action of TG02 was analyzed in the cell line MM1S, studying its effect on the cell cycle, the induction of apoptosis, and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential by cytometry and Western blot. Two models of multiple myeloma xenograft were utilized to study the in vivo action of TG02.

Results: TG02 potently inhibited proliferation and survival of multiple myeloma cell lines, even under protective bone marrow niche conditions, and selectively induced apoptosis of primary patient-derived malignant plasma cells. TG02 displayed significant single-agent activity in two multiple myeloma xenograft models, and enhanced the in vivo activity of bortezomib and lenalidomide. Signaling analyses revealed that the drug simultaneously blocked the activity of CDKs 1, 2, and 9 as well as the MAP kinase ERK5 in MM1S cells, leading to cell-cycle arrest and rapid commitment to apoptosis. TG02 induced robust activation of both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis, and depletion of XIAP and the key multiple myeloma survival protein Mcl-1.

Conclusions: TG02 is a promising new antimyeloma agent that is currently in phase I clinical trials in leukemia and multiple myeloma patients. Clin Cancer Res; 19(10); 2677–87. ©2013 AACR.
PIK3CA Mutation Is Associated with a Favorable Prognosis among Patients with Curatively Resected Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Shigaki Hironobu , Baba Yoshifumi , Watanabe Masayuki , Murata Asuka , Ishimoto Takatsugu , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Iwagami Shiro , Nosho Katsuhiko , Baba Hideo
Published: March 2013

Purpose: PIK3CA encodes the catalytic subunit of PI3K, p110α. Mutant PIK3CA stimulates the AKT pathway and promotes cancer cell proliferation. PIK3CA mutations have been associated with poor prognosis in patients with colorectal or lung cancer. In contrast, the relationship between PIK3CA mutations and favorable prognoses has been shown in breast cancer. However, the influence of PIK3CA mutations on the prognosis of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear.

Experimental Design: Using a nonbiased database of 219 curatively resected ESCCs and eight esophageal cancer cell lines, we evaluated PIK3CA mutational status by pyrosequencing. The expression of p53 and phosphorylated AKT (i.e., AKT activation) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results: PIK3CA mutations in exon 9 and/or 20 were detected in 46 cases (21%). No ESCC cell line harbored PIK3CA mutations. PIK3CA mutations were significantly associated with phosphorylated AKT expression, but not with p53 expression, sex, age at surgery, tobacco use, alcohol use, or histologic grade. Compared with wild-type PIK3CA cases, patients with PIK3CA mutations in exons 9 and/or 20 experienced significantly better disease-free survival [log-rank P = 0.0089; univariate HR: 0.37, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.15–0.75, P = 0.0042; multivariate HR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10–0.86, P = 0.021] and overall survival (log-rank P = 0.012; univariate HR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.16–0.78, P = 0.0060; multivariate HR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.10–0.90, P = 0.028).

Conclusion: PIK3CA mutations in ESCC are associated with longer survival, suggesting its role as a prognostic biomarker. Future studies are needed to confirm this association and to elucidate the exact mechanisms by which PIK3CA mutations affect tumor behavior. Clin Cancer Res; 19(9); 2451–9. ©2013 AACR.
Response to Cabozantinib in Patients with RET Fusion-Positive Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Drilon Alexander , Wang Lu , Hasanovic Adnan , Suehara Yoshiyuki , Lipson Doron , Stephens Phil , Ross Jeffrey , Miller Vincent , Ginsberg Michelle , Zakowski Maureen F. , Kris Mark G. , Ladanyi Marc , Rizvi Naiyer
Published: March 2013

The discovery of RET fusions in lung cancers has uncovered a new therapeutic target for patients whose tumors harbor these changes. In an unselected population of non–small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs), RET fusions are present in 1% to 2% of cases. This incidence increases substantially, however, in never-smokers with lung adenocarcinomas that lack other known driver oncogenes. Although preclinical data provide experimental support for the use of RET inhibitors in the treatment of RET fusion-positive tumors, clinical data on response are lacking. We report preliminary data for the first three patients treated with the RET inhibitor cabozantinib on a prospective phase II trial for patients with RET fusion-positive NSCLCs (NCT01639508). Confirmed partial responses were observed in 2 patients, including one harboring a novel TRIM33–RET fusion. A third patient with a KIF5B–RET fusion has had prolonged stable disease approaching 8 months (31 weeks). All three patients remain progression-free on treatment.

Significance: Driver oncogene discovery in lung cancers has dramatically changed today's therapeutic landscape. This report of the activity of cabozantinib in RET fusion-positive disease provides early clinical validation of RET fusions as drivers in lung cancers and suggests that RET inhibition may represent a new treatment paradigm in this molecular cohort. Cancer Discov; 3(6); 630–5. ©2013 AACR.

See related commentary by Gainor and Shaw, p. 604

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 591
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Trigeminal Schwannoma: A Clinical Retrospective Study in 52 Cases
Authors: Sun Junzhao , Zhang Jianning , Yu Xin , Qi Shubin , Du Yanan , Ni Weigang , Hu Yong , Tian Zengmin
Published: March 2013

Objective: To evaluate the radiological and clinical outcomes in a series of patients in whom stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) was used to treat trigeminal schwannomas. Methods: The records of 52 patients who underwent SRS for trigeminal schwannoma were reviewed using a retrospective study. The median patient age was 47.1 years (range, 18-77); 20 patients (38.5%) had undergone prior tumor resection and 32 (61.5%) underwent radiosurgery on the basis of imaging diagnosis only. The most frequent presenting symptoms were facial numbness (29 patients), jaw weakness (11 patients), facial pain (10 patients) and diplopia (4 patients). Fifty-two cases with solid tumors were mainly solid in 44 cases (84.6%), mostly cystic in 2 cases (3.8%), and cystic and solid mixed in 6 cases (11.5%). Two cases of mostly cystic tumor first underwent stereotactic cystic fluid aspiration and intracavitary irradiation, and then had MRI localization scan again for gamma knife treatment. The mean tumor volume was 7.2 ml (range, 0.5-38.2). The mean prescription radiation dose was 13.9 Gy (range, 11-17), and the mean prescription isodose configuration was 47.9%. Results: At a mean follow-up of 61 months (range, 12-156), neurological symptoms or signs improved in 35 patients (67.3%), 14 patients (26.9%) had a stable lesion, and worsening of the disease occurred in 2 patients (3.8%). On imaging, the schwannomas almost disappeared in 8 (15.4%), shrank in 32 (61.5%), remained stable in 5 (9.6%), and increased in size in 7 patients (13.5%). Tumor growth control was achieved in 45 (86.5%) of the 52 patients. Conclusions: SRS is an effective and minimally invasive management option for patients with residual or newly diagnosed trigeminal schwannomas. The use of SRS to treat trigeminal schwannomas resulted in good tumor control and functional improvement.
Oxacillin Resistance and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Staphylococcussaprophyticus and Other Staphylococci Isolated from Patients with Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Ferreira Adriano M. , Bonesso Mariana F. , Mondelli Alessandro L. , Camargo Carlos H. , Cunha Maria de Lourdes R.S.
Published: March 2013

Background:Staphylococcus saprophyticus is the second most frequent community-acquired causative agent of urinary tract infection (UTI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the susceptibility profile and resistance detection in Staphylococcus species. isolated from patients with UTI. Materials and Methods: The isolates were investigated using the disk diffusion method, Vitek I system, E-test®, and detection of the mecA gene. Results: Most isolates (76.2%) were resistant to oxacillin by the disk diffusion method, followed by those resistant to penicillin (72.2%). The oxacillin disk diffusion method, E-test, and Vitek I method showed higher sensitivity (94.4%) and lower specificity (28.9, 26.5, and 24.0%, respectively) than the cefoxitin disk diffusion test (sensitivity: 83.5%, specificity: 85.5%) for the detection of oxacillin resistance. Conclusions: The large number of oxacillin-resistant isolates indicates that the breakpoint value recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute may overestimate oxacillin resistance in S. saprophyticus. Thus, changes in these guidelines are necessary for the correct detection of this resistance.
A Case of Lymphomatoid Papulosis Limited to Becker's Melanosis
Authors: Buder K. , Wendel A.M. , Cerroni L. , Goebeler M. , Kerstan A.
Published: March 2013

Regional lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) accounts for 2-27% of all LyP cases. Several localized dermatoses have been reported in association with Becker's melanosis (BM), e.g. acneiform lesions or lichen planus. Here, we report on regional LyP confined to the area of BM. A 56-year-old man presented with a 1-year history of a steadily increasing number of multiple pruritic red papules developing on the area of BM, which had occurred on his left shoulder during puberty. Histopathological analysis was consistent with regional LyP. Potent topical steroids followed by oral doxycycline did not achieve improvement, while long-term oral bexarotene treatment ameliorated the skin condition. Recently, the proposed entity of ‘persistent agmination of LyP' (PALP) has extended the clinicopathological observations of regional LyP. Since PALP remains controversial, a unifying concept of localized LyP and PALP will be discussed.
Public Awareness of Early Symptoms of Stroke and Information Sources about Stroke among the General Japanese Population: The Acquisition of Stroke Knowledge Study
Authors: Miyamatsu Naomi , Okamura Tomonori , Nakayama Hirofumi , Toyoda Kazunori , Suzuki Kazuo , Toyota Akihiro , Hata Takashi , Hozawa Atsushi , Nishikawa Tomofumi , Morimoto Akiko , Ogita Mihoko , Morino Ayumi , Yamaguchi Takenori
Published: March 2013

Background: It is important that the general population be aware of the early symptoms, since it has been shown that early arrival to hospitals leads better prognosis of stroke patients. However, the general population is not well informed about the early symptoms of stroke. This study was conducted to clarify which stroke symptoms are less well known and which information sources are related to awareness of stroke symptoms. Methods: A multiple-choice, mail-in survey involving 5,540 randomly selected residents, aged 40-74 years, of 3 cities in Japan was conducted. Their knowledge about stroke symptoms and their information sources were surveyed; information sources were classified as mass media (television/newspaper/radio) and personal communication sources (posters/leaflets/internet/health professionals/family and/or friends). ‘Awareness' was defined as selecting all 5 of the correct stroke symptoms from among 10 listed symptoms with decoy choices. The estimated fraction of the possible impact due to each source on the whole population was also calculated by odds ratios (ORs) and the proportion of respondents who selected each source (Pe). The combined effects of mass media and personal communication sources on awareness were also assessed. Results: Of the 5,540 residents, only 23% selected all 5 correct symptoms. Visual disturbance was the least known of the 5 symptoms (35%). All sources were positively related to awareness, with ORs (Pe) of: television, 1.58 (72.5%); newspaper, 1.79 (48.0%); radio, 1.74 (13.3%); posters, 1.73 (7.6%); leaflets, 1.50 (24.7%); Internet, 1.66 (5.6%); health professionals, 1.33 (34.8%), and family/friends, 1.21 (44.6%). The estimated fraction of the possible impact due to each source was higher for mass media (television, 0.31 and newspaper, 0.28) than personal communication sources (Internet, 0.04 and leaflets, 0.12). Mass media only and mass media/personal communication sources were significantly associated (ORs: 1.66, 2.75, respectively). Conclusions: As a single method of public education, television could be the most effective strategy. Moreover, the combined approach involving mass media and personal communication sources might have a synergistic effect. Less well-known symptoms, such as visual disturbances, should be noted in public education campaigns.
A Review of Thrombosis and Antithrombotic Therapy in Microvascular Surgery
Authors: Froemel D. , Fitzsimons S.-J. , Frank J. , Sauerbier M. , Meurer A. , Barker J.H.
Published: March 2013

Despite a remarkable expansion of microsurgery, there is still no international consensus about routinely used prophylactic antithrombotic agents. Most treatment regimens still use aspirin, heparin (low-molecular-weight and unfractionated heparin) or colloids (hydroxyphenylacetate 6%/dextran); however, clear evidence for the clinical benefit of an ideal administration regimen or one agent over the other has not yet been established. Instead of searching for the one regime that fits all, an increasing number of reviews from different disciplines describe multistep approaches that optimize what has been shown to be most promising. This includes the use of antithrombotic agents, proper risk assessment, secondary prevention and professional training to optimize microsurgical skills. In this review, we describe factors included in traditional approaches and also emphasize the value of good surgical technique, which while recognized by all to be one of the most important factors for success, receives less emphasis in reviews describing thrombosis prophylaxis in microvascular surgery.
The Relationship between Neurological Worsening and Lesion Patterns in Patients with Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis
Authors: Tamura Aiko , Yamamoto Yasumasa , Nagakane Yoshinari , Takezawa Hidesato , Koizumi Takashi , Makita Naoki , Makino Masahiro
Published: March 2013

Background: Intracranial atherosclerotic disease is one of the most common causes of ischemic stroke especially in Asians, Hispanics and blacks. Although middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis is increasingly being recognized with the advent of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, few studies have focused on acute neurological worsening (NW) in patients with MCA stenosis. We investigated the relationship between NW and lesion patterns detected by diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Methods: We studied 44 consecutive patients out of a total of 2,863 consecutive patients who had symptomatic lesions in the territory of the MCA and in whom MRA and/or conventional angiography showed isolated MCA stenosis ≥50% in the MCA trunk. Acute DWI lesion patterns were classified as follows: (1) pial artery territory infarcts (PAI); (2) small cortical and/or subcortical infarcts (SCS); (3) deep penetrating artery territory infarcts (DPI); (4) cortical border zone infarcts (CBZ), and (5) internal border zone infarcts (IBZ). NW was defined as worsening by ≥2 points on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) during the first 7 days. Functional outcome was assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 3 months after stroke onset. Poor outcome was defined as ≥3 on the mRS. The severity of MCA stenosis on MRA was further categorized as 50-75% (moderate) and >75% or focal signal loss with the presence of distal MCA signal (severe). Results: There were 14 patients (31.8%) who showed NW and 16 patients (36.3%) who showed poor outcomes. Nine of the 14 patients with NW showed poor outcomes (64.2%). The most frequent lesions in the present study were SCS (n = 16, 36.3%), followed by IBZ (n = 12, 27.2%) and DPI (n = 11, 25.0%). Prevalence of IBZ was significantly higher in the group with NW compared to that without NW (p = 0.0081), while the prevalence of SCS, DPI, PAI and CBZ did not differ between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis showed significantly high age- and sex-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for NW only for IBZ (OR 10.9, p = 0.0051). The degree of stenosis did not correlate with NW and lesion patterns. Conclusions: Only IBZ among various lesion patterns correlated strongly with NW. IBZ are considered to be more associated with hemodynamic compromise, while embolic pathogeneses contribute more to CBZ or SCS. Early interventional medical treatments such as thrombolytic or anti-platelet therapy or stenting should be considered in cases of IBZ in MCA stenosis.
Increased Alpha-Fetoprotein Serum Level is Predictive for Survival and Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Non-Cirrhotic Livers
Authors: Witjes Caroline D.M. , Polak Wojciech G. , Verhoef Cornelis , Eskens Ferry A.L.M. , Dwarkasing Roy S. , Verheij Joanne , de Man Robert A. , Ijzermans Jan N.M.
Published: March 2013

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may be diagnosed in the absence of cirrhosis. However, little is known about prognostic factors for the survival of HCC patients with a non-cirrhotic liver in the absence of well-established risk factors. Method: Survival rates and risk factors for survival and recurrence were analysed in all patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2010 with HCC in a non-cirrhotic liver and in the absence of well-established risk factors. Results: Ninety-four patients were analysed. Treatment with curative intent consisted of surgical resection in 43 patients (46%) and radiofrequency ablation in 4 patients (4%). In patients treated with curative intent and alive 30 days after treatment (n = 40), 1- and 5-year overall survival rates were 95 and 51%, respectively. Patients with a high preoperative α-fetoprotein (AFP) serum level, the presence of microvascular invasion in the resected specimen, a complicated postoperative course and a major resection, due to a greater tumour volume, had a significantly worse outcome and a higher recurrence rate. In multivariate analysis, a high AFP serum level at presentation was significantly associated with recurrence and a worse survival. Conclusion: HCC presenting in a non-cirrhotic liver in the absence of well-established risk factors has a poor prognosis. Increased AFP serum levels are significantly associated with clinical outcome.
Qualitative and Quantitative Measurement of the Singing Voice
Authors: Cesari U. , Iengo M. , Apisa P.
Published: March 2013

Objective: The aim of the study was to clarify the mechanisms underlying the singing voice. Patients and Methods: Forty-eight professional opera singers underwent flexible and rigid endoscopy, spectrographic analysis and perceptual evaluation. Results: The data provided by voice analysis were not as clear and relevant to the aim of our study as those commonly obtained for speech evaluation. Laryngoscopy with rigid and flexible fiber optics and the singing power ratio (SPR) measurement provided more applicable data. Indeed, the former allowed us to assess laryngeal position, the glottic pattern and vocal tract modifications during the actual singing performance. The latter, already recommended by other authors as a reliable vocal emission index, also yielded more relevant information in comparison with the assessment of voice quality. Specifically, SPR provided data directly correlated to both the years of singing activity and the vocal category of each singer (the higher the singing pitch, the wider the vocal extension). More importantly, the data fully reflected the subjective assessment of each phoniatrician. Conclusions: We suggest that the SPR indices can be used as the electroacoustic equivalent of the subjective judgment of vocal focus.
Efficient Simulation of Epistatic Interactions in Case-Parent Trios
Authors: Li Qing , Schwender Holger , Louis Thomas A. , Fallin M. Daniele , Ruczinski Ingo
Published: March 2013

Statistical approaches to evaluate interactions between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and SNP-environment interactions are of great importance in genetic association studies, as susceptibility to complex disease might be related to the interaction of multiple SNPs and/or environmental factors. With these methods under active development, algorithms to simulate genomic data sets are needed to ensure proper type I error control of newly proposed methods and to compare power with existing methods. In this paper we propose an efficient method for a haplotype-based simulation of case-parent trios when the disease risk is thought to depend on possibly higher-order epistatic interactions or gene-environment interactions with binary exposures.
A comparison of external and internal maxilla and mandible morphology of water bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha)
Authors: BROŻEK JOLANTA
Published: March 2013

This paper describes the file of the mandible, the apices of the maxillae, the rupturing device on the maxillae, and the internal structures of the mouthparts in sixty representatives of the nepomorphan families (Heteroptera), using scanning electron microscopy. Eight morphologically distinct types of files are identified on the mandibular tip, as well as six distinct types of the maxillary endings, and three distinct types of rupturing devices of the maxillae. The features of the internal maxillary and mandibular structures share a common connection model, differing only by virtue of specific appendages in different subfamilies. The water bugs morphological ground plan is represented by a mandibular file identically serrated, asymmetrical apices of maxillae (left maxilla tapers with lobe + right maxilla tapers and straight), rupturing device evidently exposed ventrally and inner structures: the maxillae are extended dorso-laterally, forming a wide lobe; symmetrical processes connect with the mandibles. The main patterns (belostomatid and nepid) together with two more specialized patterns (gelastocorids, corixids, micronectids, and diaprepocorids) and (ochterid, aphelocheirid, naucorid, notonectid, pleid and helotrephid) are reported. Diversity of the elements (maxillae and mandibles) are analyzed from a phylogenetic signals and nutrition perspective. Finally, further lines of study are suggested for future work on the phylogeny of the group based on the studied characters.
Diversity within the Redeye Bass, Micropterus coosae (Perciformes: Centrarchidae) species group, with descriptions of four new species
Authors: BAKER WINSTON H. , BLANTON REBECCA E. , JOHNSTON CAROL E.
Published: March 2013

The Redeye Bass, Micropterus coosae, was described from the Mobile River basin, Chattahoochee, and Savannah rivers in Alabama and Georgia, USA, by Hubbs and Bailey (1940). At that time the authors recognized significant variation in the Black Warrior River population, and noted that with further study this form may be recognized as a separate taxon. An examination of variation in morphology and mitochondrial DNA supported this observation, and highlighted additional species-level variation, resulting in descriptions of a total of four new species: Micropterus cahabae, new sp., restricted to the Cahaba River system; Micropterus tallapoosae, new sp., restricted to the Tallapoosa River system; Micropterus warriorensis, new sp., from the Black Warrior River system; and Micropterus chattahoochae, new sp., from the Chattahoochee River system. Micropterus coosae is restricted to the Coosa River system. The new species differ from each other and from M. coosae by a combination of pigmentation and scale count characteristics, development of the tooth patch, and divergence within the ND2 gene. While two of these species are relatively common in upland streams within their ranges, M. warriorensis, M. cahabae and M. chattahoochae are uncommon and may warrant protection.
The genus Laccobius in China: new species and new records (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)
Authors: JIA FENGLONG , GENTILI ELIO , FIKÁČEK MARTIN
Published: March 2013

The species of the water scavenger beetle genus Laccobius Erichson, 1837 occuring in China are reviewed. Two new species are described: Laccobius (Glyptolaccobius) qinlingensis sp. nov. (Shaanxi) and L. (Cyclolaccobius) hainanensis sp. nov. (Hainan). Five species are recorded for the first time: Laccobius (Dimorpholaccobius) bipunctatus (Fabricius, 1775), L. (D.) striatulus (Fabricius, 1801) and L. (Compsolaccobius) pallidissimus Reitter, 1899 (all from Xinjiang), L. (Microlaccobius) tonkinensis Gentili, 1979 (Shaanxi), and L. (Compsolaccobius) decorus (Gyllenhal, 1827) (Qinghai). Additional faunistic data from China are provided for the following species: L. (Cyclolaccobius) hingstoni Orchymont, 1926, L. (C.) nitidus Gentili, 1984, L. (C.) politus Gentili, 1979, L. (C.) yunnanensis Gentili, 2003, L. (Dimorpholaccobius) simulans Orchymont, 1923, L. (s.str.) binotatus Orchymont, 1934, L. (s.str.) cinereus Motschulsky, 1860, L. (s.str.) colon (Stephens, 1829), L. (s.str.) inopinus Gentili, 1980, L. (s.str.) minutus (Linnaeus, 1758), L. (s.str.) nobilis Gentili, 1979, L. (Microlaccobius) elegans Gentili, 1979, L. (M.) florens Gentili, 1979, L. (M.) formosus Gentili, 1979, L. (M.) hammondi Gentili, 1984, L. (M.) himalayanus Gentili, 1988, and L. (M.) nepalensis Gentili, 1982. An updated checklist of Laccobius species occurring inChina is provided.
New species and records of Euphranta Loew and other Adramini (Diptera: Tephritidae: Trypetinae) from south and southeast Asia
Authors: DAVID K. J. , HANCOCK D. L. , FREIDBERG A. , GOODGER K. F.M.
Published: March 2013

Seven new species of Euphranta Loew are described, viz., Euphranta dysoxyli David, sp. nov., E. hyalipennis David & Freidberg, sp. nov, E. diffusa David, sp. nov., E. haldwanica Hancock & Goodger, sp. nov. and E. thandikudi David, sp. nov. from India; E. neochrysopila David, Freidberg, Hancock & Goodger, sp. nov. from Sri Lanka and E. ridleyi Hancock & Goodger, sp. nov. from Singapore. Notes are provided on the identities of E. corticicola (Hering) and E. klugii (Wiedemann); E. signatifacies Hardy is synonymised with E. klugii; E. dissoluta (Bezzi) and E. burtoni Hardy are synonymised with E. crux (Fabricius) and Dimeringophrys parilis (Hardy) is reinstated as a valid species. Coelotrypes latilimbatus (Enderlein), Dimeringophrys pallidipennis Hardy, D. parilis (Hardy) and Hardyadrama excoecariae Lee are newly recorded from India, E. crux from Sri Lanka and E. klugii from Indonesia. An unnamed species of Coelopacidia Enderlein from India is illustrated. An illustrated key to species of Euphranta Loew fromIndia is also provided.
A new species of Leposoma (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) with four fingers from the Atlantic Forest central corridor in Bahia, Brazil
Authors: RODRIGUES MIGUEL TREFAUT , TEIXEIRA MAURO JR. , RECODER RENATO SOUSA , VECHIO FRANCISCO DAL , DAMASCENO ROBERTA , PELLEGRINO KATIA CRISTINA MACHADO
Published: March 2013

Leposoma sinepollex sp. nov., a new species of the scincoides group, is described from a mountain region in the Atlantic Forest central corridor in state of Bahia, Brazil. The new species is characterized by elongate dorsal and lanceolate ventral scales arranged in diagonal rows, a single and smooth frontonasal, five supraoculars, absence of pollex, third toe as long as or longer than fourth, absence of striations in lower part of head, parietals longer than wide and as long as interparietal, 27–29 dorsals, 25–29 scales around body, 17–19 ventrals, 12–14 total pores in the male (absent in females), 9–10 and 9–11 subdigital lamellae respectively under IV Finger and IV Toe, and strong sexual color dichromatism with a black pigmentation in the ventral parts of males, creamy in females. The new species is morphologically similar to Leposoma nanodactylus, sharing with it among other features the synapomorphic division of the first supraocular. Phylogenetic analyses of 981 bp of combined sequences (cyt b+ ND4) recovered also a strongly supported (PP=1,0; BP=100) sister relationship between both species. The new species and Leposoma nanodactylus are placed sister to all the other Atlantic Forest species, with L. baturitensis being the first to diverge in this radiation. We discuss the distribution of the Atlantic Forest Leposoma, as well as possible scenarios for the origin of the new species.
New data on Rhyacophila (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae) from West Malaysia and Indonesia (Lombok and Bali) with descriptions of two new species
Authors: IVANOV VLADIMIR D. , MELNITSKY STANISLAV I.
Published: March 2013

A new species, Rhyacophila langkawia sp. n., belonging to the R. curvata Group sensu Schmid (1970) is described. The samples provide also material of the previously undescribed species cited by Schmid (1970) as R. schmidi, a nomen nudum; this species is described as R. schmidirossia sp. n., also in the R. curvata Group. Other sampled species were Rhyacophila curvata Morton, recorded for the first time from Negeri Sembilan (West Malaysia) and Lombok (Indonesia); Rhyacophila stheneboia Malicky & Prommi (Pahang and Negeri Sembilan, West Malaysia), and Rhyacophila anakbatukau Malicky, recorded for the first time from Lombok (Indonesia). Updated lists of the Rhyacophila species found inWest Malaysia andIndonesia are provided.
A Conceptual Model for the Development of Professional Behaviours in Occupational Therapists
Authors: Kasar Jack , Muscari Mary E.
Published: March 2013

The ever-changing, dynamic practice environment coupled with increased consumer needs and awareness create an atmosphere that requires optimal professionalism from occupational therapists. Professionalism requires specific knowledge, attitudes, and values — all manifested by professional behaviours. The authors assume that professional behaviours mature through a natural developmental process; a process that requires careful nurturing on the part of educators and clinical supervisors. Based on this assumption, the authors propose this conceptual model based on Erikson's life cycle stages. The model implies that occupational therapy professional behaviours develop sequentially through stages that begin during the educational process of occupational therapists, and progress throughout their career. The purpose of this model is to provide a framework for educators and supervisors to nurture professional behaviours in students and novice clinicians, and to continue their own professional growth.