bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of
Cross-cultural design for IT products and services
by Pei-Luen Patrick Rau, Tom Plocher, & Yee-Yin Choong. (2013), CRC Press
Authors: St. Amant Kirk
Published: July 2014

The culture we are part of tells us what aspects of design constitute "good" both in terms of aesthetics and usability. When it comes to technologies, these factors must be addressed for a given item to be successfully adopted by and correctly used within a particular culture. To put these ideas into practice, consider the following: A given interface might be very easy for the members of a particular culture to use, but if its aesthetic appeal is so jarring that individuals avoid it almost instinctively (i.e., before they actually use it), then the benefits of that interface are lost. Similarly, an aesthetically appealing interface might entice the members of a given culture to try it, but if the interface is difficult to use, then the initially interested audience is likely to abandon it. Effective communication design for international contexts thus becomes a matter of recognizing and addressing both aspects associated with "good." And as online media increasingly link the world together via information technologies, the need to understand and address such factors becomes increasingly important.
Circulating angiogenic cell population responses to 10 days of reduced physical activity
Authors: Guhanarayan Gayatri , Jablonski Julianne , Witkowski Sarah
Published: July 2014

Circulating angiogenic cells (CACs) are a diverse group that have been identified as predictors of cardiovascular health and are inversely proportional to cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes. Inactivity is a growing concern in industrialized nations and is an independent risk factor for CVD. There is limited evidence regarding the impact of reduced physical activity (rPA) on different CAC populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of objectively monitored rPA with maintained energy balance on two CAC populations (CFU and CD34+cells), intracellular nitric oxide (NOi), and genes related to NO production in active, healthy men. Participants (age 25 ± 2.9 yr) refrained from structured physical activity for 10 days, which was reflected by a significant reduction in time in vigorous + very vigorous intensity activity ( P = 0.03). Sedentary time tended to increase ( P = 0.06) with rPA. CFU CACs have been characterized as mainly monocytic and lymphocytic cells. We found significant reductions in both the number of CFU CACs (−35.69%, P = 0.01) and CFU CAC NOi (−33.84%, P = 0.03). Neither NOi nor the number of CD34+cells, which are hematopoietic and endothelial progenitors, changed with rPA. We found no significant differences in NO-related gene expression or oxidative stress-related gene expression with rPA in either CAC type. Therefore, we conclude that although various CAC populations have been related to vascular health, regular physical activity is necessary to maintain CAC NOi and the vulnerability of CACs to short-term reductions in physical activity is population specific.
Scheduling Simple Linear Deteriorating Jobs with Rejection
Authors: Zou Juan , Zhang Yuzhong
Published: July 2014

We consider the problems of scheduling deteriorating jobs with release dates on a single machine (parallel machines) and jobs can be rejected by paying penalties. The processing time of a job is a simple linear increasing function of its starting time. For a single machine model, the objective is to minimize the maximum lateness of the accepted jobs plus the total penalty of the rejected jobs. We show that the problem is NP‐hard in the strong sense and presents a fully polynomial time approximation scheme to solve it when all jobs have agreeable release dates and due dates. For parallel‐machine model, the objective is to minimize the maximum delivery completion time of the accepted jobs plus the total penalty of the rejected jobs. When the jobs have identical release dates, we first propose a fully polynomial time approximation scheme to solve it. Then, we present a heuristic algorithm for the case where all jobs have to be accepted and evaluate its efficiency by computational experiments.
Impacts of Groundwater Recharge from Rubber Dams on the Hydrogeological Environment in Luoyang Basin, China
Authors: Dong Shaogang , Liu Baiwei , Liu Huamin , Wang Shidong , Wang Lixin
Published: July 2014

In the rubber dam’s impact area, the groundwater total hardness (TH) has declined since 2000, ultimately dropping to 100–300 mg/L in 2012. pH levels have shown no obvious changes. NH4-N concentration in the groundwater remained stable from 2000 to 2006, but it increased from 2007 to 2012, with the largest increase up to 0.2 mg/L. NO3-N concentration in the groundwater generally declined in 2000–2006 and then increased from 2007; the largest increase was to 10 mg/L in 2012. Total dissolved solids (TDS) of the groundwater showed a general trend of decline from 2000 to 2009, but levels increased after 2010, especially along the south bank of the Luohe River where the largest increase recorded was approximately 100 mg/L. This study has shown that the increases in the concentrations of NH4-N and NO3-N were probably caused by changes in groundwater levels. Nitrates adsorbed by the silt clay of aeration zone appear to have entered the groundwater through physical and chemical reactions. TDS increased because of groundwater evaporation and some soluble ions entered the groundwater in the unsaturated zone. The distance of the contaminant to the surface of the aquifer became shorter due to the shallow depth of groundwater, resulting in the observed rise in pollutant concentrations more pronounced.
Voltage-Aware Time Synchronization for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Jin Meng , Fang Dingyi , Chen Xiaojiang , Yang Zhe , Liu Chen , Yin Xiaoyan
Published: July 2014

The low-cost crystal oscillators in wireless sensor networks are prone to be affected by their working conditions such as voltage, temperature, and humidity. Such effect is often ignored by existing time synchronization solutions that typically assume the frequency error of a given node to be constant and hence adopt frequent timestamp exchanges, resulting in high energy consumptions. We propose a novel voltage-aware time synchronization (VATS) scheme that is inspired by the fact that the clock skew is highly correlated to voltage supplies. VATS features a two-phase process: (i) it first estimates the clock skew and updates the frequency error autonomously based on the local voltage level; (ii) it then adjusts the resynchronization intervals dynamically according to a given synchronization error controlling factor and the synchronization error accumulating rate to balance the calibration accuracy and cost. Since VATS leverages voltage measurements to assist clock skew estimation, it does not require frequent timestamp exchanges as in traditional schemes. Extensive simulation results illustrate the superior performance of the proposed method in terms of calculation accuracy, robustness, and reduced timestamp exchanges for energy saving.
Node Deployment Algorithm Based on Viscous Fluid Model for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chen Jiguang , Qian Huanyan
Published: July 2014

With the scale expands, traditional deployment algorithms are becoming increasingly complicated than before, which are no longer fit for sensor networks. In order to reduce the complexity, we propose a node deployment algorithm based on viscous fluid model. In wireless sensor networks, sensor nodes are abstracted as fluid particles. Similar to the diffusion and self-propagation behavior of fluid particles, sensor nodes realize deployment in unknown region following the motion rules of fluid. Simulation results show that our algorithm archives good coverage rate and homogeneity in large-scale sensor networks.
Determination of Magnesium Valproate and Its Process Related Impurities by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Thakkar Rakshit , Saravaia Hitesh , Patel Madhavi , Shah Anamik
Published: July 2014

A selective ultraperformance liquid chromatographic (UPLC) method for the determination of magnesium valproate and its process related impurities has been developed. The method includes reversed-phase Acquity BEH C18 column with 100 mm × 2.1 mm i.d. and 1.7 µ particle size. The mobile phase consists of acetonitrile and 5 mM ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate with pH = 3.0 at 45 : 55 isocratic elution. The flow rate was set at 0.3 mL/min and UV detection was performed at 215 nm. A system suitability test (SST) was developed to govern the quality of the separation. The developed method has been validated further with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, selectivity, LOD, LOQ, and robustness. Different batches of samples were examined using this method; the method proved to be successful when applied to analyze a marketed magnesium valproate formulation.
The Influence of Obesity on Different Genders in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Huang Kuo-Tung , Chin Chien-Hung , Tseng Chia-Cheng , Chang Huang-Chih , Chen Yung-Che , Wang Chin-Chou , Lin Meng-Chih , Lin Hsin-Ching , Su Mao-Chang
Published: July 2014

Obesity is considered to be a major contributing factor to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); however, there is limited evidence with regard to gender predominance. We analyzed 2345 patients (339 females) in correlation with body mass index (BMI) and OSA severity. Male AHIs were significantly higher than female AHIs in each BMI group. As the BMI increased, the AHI increased in both males and females, and this trend was more obvious in males. For BMI-matched male and female patients with OSA, the severity of OSA was higher in males. As BMI increased, the severity of OSA increased more obviously in males. Our findings suggest that increased body fat contributes to the pathogenesis of OSA more in males than in females and that obesity plays a more significant role in contributing to OSA in male patients.
Spectral-Homotopy Perturbation Method for Solving Governing MHD Jeffery-Hamel Problem
Authors: Khidir Ahmed A.
Published: July 2014

We present a new modification of the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) for solving nonlinear boundary value problems. The technique is based on the standard homotopy perturbation method and blending of the Chebyshev pseudospectral methods. The implementation of the new approach is demonstrated by solving the MHD Jeffery-Hamel flow and the effect of MHD on the flow has been discussed. Comparisons are made between the proposed technique, the previous studies, the standard homotopy perturbation method, and the numerical solutions to demonstrate the applicability, validity, and high accuracy of the presented approach. The results demonstrate that the new modification is more efficient and converges faster than the standard homotopy perturbation method at small orders. The MATLAB software has been used to solve all the equations in this study.
Skin Cancer, Irradiation, and Sunspots: The Solar Cycle Effect
Authors: Valachovic Edward , Zurbenko Igor
Published: July 2014

Skin cancer is diagnosed in more than 2 million individuals annually in the United States. It is strongly associated with ultraviolet exposure, with melanoma risk doubling after five or more sunburns. Solar activity, characterized by features such as irradiance and sunspots, undergoes an 11-year solar cycle. This fingerprint frequency accounts for relatively small variation on Earth when compared to other uncorrelated time scales such as daily and seasonal cycles. Kolmogorov-Zurbenko filters, applied to the solar cycle and skin cancer data, separate the components of different time scales to detect weaker long term signals and investigate the relationships between long term trends. Analyses of crosscorrelations reveal epidemiologically consistent latencies between variables which can then be used for regression analysis to calculate a coefficient of influence. This method reveals that strong numerical associations, with correlations >0.5, exist between these small but distinct long term trends in the solar cycle and skin cancer. This improves modeling skin cancer trends on long time scales despite the stronger variation in other time scales and the destructive presence of noise.
A Multiobjective Optimization Algorithm Based on Discrete Bacterial Colony Chemotaxis
Authors: Lu Zhigang , Feng Tao , Liu Zhaozheng
Published: July 2014

Bacterial colony chemotaxis algorithm was originally developed for optimal problem with continuous space. In this paper the discrete bacterial colony chemotaxis (DBCC) algorithm is developed to solve multiobjective optimization problems. The basic DBCC algorithm has the disadvantage of being trapped into the local minimum. Therefore, some improvements are adopted in the new algorithm, such as adding chaos transfer mechanism when the bacterium choose their next locations and the crowding distance operation to maintain the population diversity in the Pareto Front. The definition of chaos transfer mechanism is used to retain the elite solution produced during the operation, and the definition of crowding distance is used to guide the bacteria for determinate variation, thus enabling the algorithm obtain well‐distributed solution in the Pareto optimal set. The convergence properties of the DBCC strategy are tested on some test functions. At last, some numerical results are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the results obtained by the new algorithm.
Effect of ST36 Acupuncture on Hyperventilation‐Induced CO2 Reactivity of the Basilar and Middle Cerebral Arteries and Heart Rate Variability in Normal Subjects
Authors: Hyun Sang-Ho , Im Jin-Wook , Jung Woo-Sang , Cho Ki-Ho , Kim Young-Suk , Ko Chang-Nam , Park Jung-Mi , Park Seong-Uk , Cho Seung-Yeon , Moon Sang-Kwan
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to verify the effect of acupuncture on cerebral haemodynamics to provide evidence for the use of acupuncture treatment as a complementary therapy for the high‐risk stroke population. The effect of ST36 acupuncture treatment on the hyperventilation‐induced CO2 reactivity of the basilar and middle cerebral arteries was studied in 10 healthy male volunteers (mean age, 25.2 ± 1.5 years) using a transcranial Doppler sonography with an interval of 1 week between measurements, and a portable ECG monitoring system was used to obtain ECG data simultaneously. The CO2 reactivity of the basilar and middle cerebral arteries increased significantly after ST36 acupuncture treatment, whereas the mean arterial blood pressure and pulse rate did not change significantly. The high‐frequency power significantly increased after ST36 acupuncture treatment, and the percentage increase of high‐frequency power correlated significantly with the percentage increase in the CO2 reactivity of the contralateral middle cerebral artery. These data suggest that ST36 acupuncture treatment increases CO2 reactivity, indicating improvement of vasodilatory potential of the cerebral vasculature to compensate for fluctuations caused by changes in external conditions. The increase in parasympathetic tone by ST36 acupuncture treatment is responsible for this therapeutic effect.
Cu(II) Complexes of Isoniazid Schiff Bases: DNA/BSA Binding and Cytotoxicity Studies on A549 Cell Line
Authors: Ramadevi Pulipaka , Singh Rinky , Prajapati Akhilesh , Gupta Sarita , Chakraborty Debjani
Published: July 2014

A series of isonicotinoyl hydrazones have been synthesized via template method and were complexed to Cu(II). The ligands are coordinated to Cu(II) ion through the enolic oxygen and azomethine nitrogen resulting in a square planar geometry. The CT-DNA and bovine serum albumin binding propensities of the compounds were determined spectrophotometrically, the results of which indicate good binding propensity of complexes to DNA and BSA with high binding constant values. Furthermore, the compounds have been investigated for their cytotoxicities on A549 human lung cancer cell. Also the mode of cell death was examined employing various staining techniques and was found to be apoptotic.
The Beneficial Effect of Melatonin in Brain Endothelial Cells against Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation Followed by Reperfusion-Induced Injury
Authors: Song Juhyun , Kang So Mang , Lee Won Taek , Park Kyung Ah , Lee Kyoung Min , Lee Jong Eun
Published: July 2014

Melatonin has a cellular protective effect in cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Protection of brain endothelial cells against hypoxia and oxidative stress is important for treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, since brain endothelial cells constitute the blood brain barrier (BBB). In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of melatonin against oxygen-glucose deprivation, followed by reperfusion- (OGD/R-) induced injury, in bEnd.3 cells. The effect of melatonin was examined by western blot analysis, cell viability assays, measurement of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and immunocytochemistry (ICC). Our results showed that treatment with melatonin prevents cell death and degradation of tight junction protein in the setting of OGD/R-induced injury. In response to OGD/R injury of bEnd.3 cells, melatonin activates Akt, which promotes cell survival, and attenuates phosphorylation of JNK, which triggers apoptosis. Thus, melatonin protects bEnd.3 cells against OGD/R-induced injury.
Expression of Senescence-Associated microRNAs and Target Genes in Cellular Aging and Modulation by Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction
Authors: Gwee Sian Khee Sharon , Mohd Yusof Yasmin Anum , Makpol Suzana
Published: July 2014

Emerging evidences highlight the implication of microRNAs as a posttranscriptional regulator in aging. Several senescence-associated microRNAs (SA-miRNAs) are found to be differentially expressed during cellular senescence. However, the role of dietary compounds on SA-miRNAs remains elusive. This study aimed to elucidate the modulatory role of tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) on SA-miRNAs (miR-20a, miR-24, miR-34a, miR-106a, and miR-449a) and established target genes of miR-34a (CCND1, CDK4, and SIRT1) during replicative senescence of human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs). Primary cultures of HDFs at young and senescent were incubated with TRF at 0.5 mg/mL. Taqman microRNA assay showed significant upregulation of miR-24 and miR-34a and downregulation of miR-20a and miR-449a in senescent HDFs (P<0.05). TRF reduced miR-34a expression in senescent HDFs and increased miR-20a expression in young HDFs and increased miR-449a expression in both young and senescent HDFs. Our results also demonstrated that ectopic expression of miR-34a reduced the expression of CDK4 significantly (P<0.05). TRF inhibited miR-34a expression thus relieved its inhibition on CDK4 gene expression. No significant change was observed on the expression of CCND1, SIRT1, and miR-34a upstream transcriptional regulator, TP53. In conclusion tocotrienol-rich fraction prevented cellular senescence of human diploid fibroblasts via modulation of SA-miRNAs and target genes expression.
Fasting Hyperglycemia Increases In-Hospital Mortality Risk in Nondiabetic Female Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Luo Guojing , Liu Hong , Luo Shunkui , Li Fang , Su Minhong , Lu Hongyun
Published: July 2014

Previous studies had shown that elevated admission plasma glucose (APG) could increase mortality rate and serious complications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but whether fasting plasma glucose (FPG) had the same role remains controversial. In this retrospective study, 253 cases of AMI patients were divided into diabetic (n=87) and nondiabetic group (n=166). Our results showed that: compared with the nondiabetic patients, diabetic patients had higher APG, FPG, higher plasma triglyceride, higher rates of painless AMI (P<0.01), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and reinfraction (P<0.05). They also had lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol and rate of malignant arrhythmia, but in-hospital mortality rate did not differ significantly (P>0.05). While nondiabetic patients were subgrouped in terms of APG and FPG (cut points were 11.1 mmol/L and 7.0 mmol/L, resp.), the mortality rate had significant difference (P<0.01), whereas glucose level lost significance in diabetic group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FPG (OR: 2.014; 95% confidence interval: 1.296–3.131;p<0.01) but not APG was independent predictor of in-hospital mortality for nondiabetic patients. These results indicate that FPG can be an independent predictor for mortality in nondiabetic female patients with AMI.
MicroRNA Expression in Salivary Supernatant of Patients with Pancreatic Cancer and Its Relationship with ZHENG
Authors: Gao Song , Chen Lian-Yu , Wang Peng , Liu Lu-Ming , Chen Zhen
Published: July 2014

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), diagnosis and prescriptions are based on the signs and symptoms which are recognized as ZHENG. The cornerstone of TCM is to differentially treat one ZHENG from others, which is also known as syndrome differentiation, and this relies on the gathering of clinical information through inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiry, and palpation. However, the biomolecular basis of the ZHENG remains unclear. In this study, the expressions of 384 cancer-related miRNAs in salivary supernatant of patients with pancreatic cancer were assessed by miRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array, and the different expression patterns of miRNA in three different groups of ZHENG were studied with use of real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Some miRNAs were found to be specifically expressed in some ZHENGs, for instance, miR-17, miR-21, and miR-181b in Shi-Re ZHENG and miR-196a in Pi-Xu ZHENG. This indicates that these miRNAs may play important roles in different ZHENG condition. Therefore, this study to some extent revealed the molecular basis of TCM ZHENG in pancreatic cancer.
Analysis of Critical Velocities for an Infinite Timoshenko Beam Resting on an Elastic Foundation Subjected to a Harmonic Moving Load
Authors: Zhen Bin , Luo Wei , Xu Jian
Published: July 2014

Critical velocities are investigated for an infinite Timoshenko beam resting on a Winkler-type elastic foundation subjected to a harmonic moving load. The determination of critical velocities ultimately comes down to discrimination of the existence of multiple real roots of an algebraic equation with real coefficients of the 4th degree, which can be solved by employing Descartes sign method and complete discrimination system for polynomials. Numerical calculations for the European high-speed rail show that there are at most four critical velocities for an infinite Timoshenko beam, which is very different from those gained by others. Furthermore, the shear wave velocity must be the critical velocity, but the longitudinal wave velocity is not possible under certain conditions. Further numerical simulations indicate that all critical velocities are limited to be less than the longitudinal wave velocity no matter how large the foundation stiffness is or how high the loading frequency is. Additionally, our study suggests that the maximum value of one group velocity of waves in Timoshenko beam should be one “dangerous” velocity for the moving load in launching process, which has never been referred to in previous work.
The Definition of a Prolonged Intensive Care Unit Stay for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients: An Application with National Health Insurance Research Database
Authors: Chan Chien-Lung , Ting Hsien-Wei , Huang Hsin-Tsung
Published: July 2014

Introduction.Length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit (ICU) of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) patients is one of the most important issues. The disease severity, psychosocial factors, and institutional factors will influence the length of ICU stay. This study is used in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to define the threshold of a prolonged ICU stay in sICH patients.Methods.This research collected the demographic data of sICH patients in the NHIRD from 2005 to 2009. The threshold of prolonged ICU stay was calculated using change point analysis.Results.There were 1599 sICH patients included. A prolonged ICU stay was defined as being equal to or longer than 10 days. There were 436 prolonged ICU stay cases and 1163 nonprolonged cases.Conclusion.This study showed that the threshold of a prolonged ICU stay is a good indicator of hospital utilization in ICH patients. Different hospitals have their own different care strategies that can be identified with a prolonged ICU stay. This indicator can be improved using quality control methods such as complications prevention and efficiency of ICU bed management. Patients’ stay in ICUs and in hospitals will be shorter if integrated care systems are established.
Patient Outcomes following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage between the Medical Center and Regional Hospital: Whether All Patients Should Be Transferred to Medical Centers
Authors: Lin Tsung-Ying , Wu Chieh Hsin , Lee Wei-Che , Chen Chao-Wen , Kuo Liang-Chi , Huang Shiuh-Lin , Lin Hsing-Lin , Lin Chih-Lung
Published: July 2014

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a critical illness that may result in patient mortality or morbidity. In this study, we investigated the outcomes of patients treated in medical center and nonmedical center hospitals and the relationship between such outcomes and hospital and surgeon volume. Patient data were abstracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan in the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000, which contains all claims data of 1 million beneficiaries randomly selected in 2000. The International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, subarachnoid hemorrhage (430) was used for the inclusion criteria. We identified 355 patients between 11 and 87 years of age who had subarachnoid hemorrhage. Among them, 32.4% (115/355) were men. The median Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score was 1.3 (SD ± 0.6). Unadjusted logistic regression analysis demonstrated that low mortality was associated with high hospital volume (OR = 3.21; 95% CI: 1.18–8.77). In this study, we found no statistical significances of mortality, LOS, and total charges between medical centers and nonmedical center hospitals. Patient mortality was associated with hospital volume. Nonmedical center hospitals could achieve resource use and outcomes similar to those of medical centers with sufficient volume.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Novel Phytocystatin Gene from Turmeric,Curcuma longa
Authors: Chan Seow-Neng , Abu Bakar Norliza , Mahmood Maziah , Ho Chai-Ling , Shaharuddin Noor Azmi
Published: July 2014

Phytocystatin, a type of protease inhibitor (PI), plays major roles in plant defense mechanisms and has been reported to show antipathogenic properties and plant stress tolerance. Recombinant plant PIs are gaining popularity as potential candidates in engineering of crop protection and in synthesizing medicine. It is therefore crucial to identify PI from novel sources likeCurcuma longaas it is more effective in combating against pathogens due to its novelty. In this study, a novel cDNA fragment encoding phytocystatin was isolated using degenerate PCR primers, designed from consensus regions of phytocystatin from other plant species. A full-length cDNA of the phytocystatin gene, designatedCypCl, was acquired using 5′/3′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends method and it has been deposited in NCBI database (accession number KF545954.1). It has a 687 bp long open reading frame (ORF) which encodes 228 amino acids. BLAST result indicated thatCypClis similar to cystatin protease inhibitor fromCucumis sativuswith 74% max identity. Sequence analysis showed thatCypClcontains most of the motifs found in a cystatin, including a G residue, LARFAV-, QxVxG sequence, PW dipeptide, and SNSL sequence at C-terminal extension. Phylogenetic studies also showed thatCypClis related to phytocystatin fromElaeis guineensis.
Antihepatoma Activity ofArtocarpus communisIs Higher in Fractions with High Artocarpin Content
Authors: Tzeng Cheng-Wei , Yen Feng-Lin , Lin Liang-Tzung , Lee Chiang-Wen , Yen Ming-Hong , Tzeng Wen-Sheng , Lin Chun-Ching
Published: July 2014

Extracts from natural plants have been used in traditional medicine for many centuries worldwide.Artocarpus communisis one such plant that has been used to treat liver cirrhosis, hypertension, and diabetes. To our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the antihepatoma activity ofA. communistoward HepG2 and PLC/PRF/5 cells and the first to explore the relationship between antihepatoma activity and the active compound artocarpin content in different fractions ofA. communis.A. communismethanol extract and fractions induced dose-dependent reduction of tumor cell viability. DNA laddering analysis revealed thatA. communisextract and fractions did not induce apoptosis in HepG2 and PLC/PRF/5 cells. Instead, acridine orange staining revealed thatA. communistriggered autophagic cell death in a dose-dependent manner. The antihepatoma activity ofA. communisis attributable to artocarpin. The fractions with the highest artocarpin content were also the fractions with the highest antihepatoma activity in the following order: dichloromethane fraction > methanol extract > ethyl acetate fraction >n-butanol fraction >n-hexane fraction. Taken together,A. communisshowed antihepatoma activity through autophagic cell death. The effect was related to artocarpin content. Artocarpin could be considered an indicator of the anticancer potential ofA. communisextract.
Known and Novel Sources of Variability in the Nicotine Metabolite Ratio in a Large Sample of Treatment-Seeking Smokers
Authors: Chenoweth Meghan J. , Novalen Maria , Hawk Larry W. , Schnoll Robert A. , George Tony P. , Cinciripini Paul M. , Lerman Caryn , Tyndale Rachel F.
Published: July 2014

Background: The ratio of 3′hydroxycotinine to cotinine, or nicotine metabolite ratio (NMR), is strongly associated with CYP2A6 genotype, CYP2A6-mediated nicotine and cotinine metabolism, and nicotine clearance. Higher NMR (faster nicotine clearance) is associated retrospectively with heavier smoking and lower cessation rates.

Methods: NMR as a predictive biomarker of cessation outcomes is being investigated (NCT01314001). In addition to strong CYP2A6 genetic influences on NMR, demographic and hormonal factors alter NMR. Here, we analyzed, for the first time together, these sources of variation on NMR in smokers screened for this clinical trial (N = 1,672).

Results: Participants (mean age = 45.9) were 65.1% Caucasian, 34.9% African American, and 54.8% male. Mean NMR (SD) was higher in Caucasians versus African Americans [0.41 (0.20) vs. 0.33 (0.21); P < 0.001], and in females versus males [0.41 (0.22) vs. 0.37 (0.20); P < 0.001]. Among females, birth control pill use (N = 17) and hormone replacement therapy (N = 14) were associated with 19.5% (P = 0.09) and 29.3% (P = 0.06) higher mean NMR, respectively, albeit nonsignificantly. BMI was negatively associated with NMR (Rho = −0.14; P < 0.001), whereas alcohol use (Rho = 0.11; P < 0.001) and cigarette consumption (Rho = 0.12; P < 0.001) were positively associated with NMR. NMR was 16% lower in mentholated cigarette users (P < 0.001). When analyzed together in a linear regression model, these predictors (each ≤2%) accounted for <8% of total NMR variation.

Conclusions: Although these factors significantly affected NMR, they contributed little (together <8%; each ≤2%) to total NMR variation.

Impact: Thus, when using NMR, for example, to prospectively guide smoking cessation therapy, these sources of variation are unlikely to cause NMR misclassification. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(9); 1773–82. ©2014 AACR.
Excess of Proximal Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer in African Americans from a Multiethnic Study
Authors: Xicola Rosa M. , Gagnon Molly , Clark Julia R. , Carroll Timothy , Gao Weihua , Fernandez Christian , Mijic Dragana , Rawson James B. , Janoski Ashley , Pusatcioglu Cenk K. , Rajaram Priyanka , Gluskin Adam B. , Regan Maureen , Chaudhry Vivek , Abcarian Herand , Blumetti Jennifer , Cintron Jose , Melson Joshua , Xie Hui , Guzman Grace , Emmadi Rajyasree , Alagiozian-Angelova Victoria , Kupfer Sonia S. , Braunschweig Carol , Ellis Nathan A. , Llor Xavier
Published: July 2014

Purpose: African Americans (AA) have the highest incidence of colorectal cancer compared with other U.S. populations and more proximal colorectal cancers. The objective is to elucidate the basis of these cancer disparities.

Experimental design: Of note, 566 AA and 328 non-Hispanic White (NHW) colorectal cancers were ascertained in five Chicago hospitals. Clinical and exposure data were collected. Microsatellite instability (MSI) and BRAF (V600E) and KRAS mutations were tested. Statistical significance of categorical variables was tested by the Fisher exact test or logistic regression and age by the Mann–Whitney U test.

Results: Over a 10-year period, the median age at diagnosis significantly decreased for both AAs (68–61; P < 0.01) and NHWs (64.5– 62; P = 0.04); more AA patients were diagnosed before age 50 than NHWs (22% vs. 15%; P = 0.01). AAs had more proximal colorectal cancer than NHWs (49.5% vs. 33.7%; P < 0.01), but overall frequencies of MSI, BRAF and KRAS mutations were not different nor were they different by location in the colon. Proximal colorectal cancers often presented with lymphocytic infiltrate (P < 0.01) and were diagnosed at older ages (P = 0.02). Smoking, drinking, and obesity were less common in this group, but results were not statistically significant.

Conclusions: Patients with colorectal cancer have gotten progressively younger. The excess of colorectal cancer in AAs predominantly consists of more proximal, microsatellite stable tumors, commonly presenting lymphocytic infiltrate and less often associated with toxic exposures or a higher BMI. Younger AAs had more distal colorectal cancers than older ones. These data suggest two different mechanisms driving younger age and proximal location of colorectal cancers in AAs. Clin Cancer Res; 20(18); 4962–70. ©2014 AACR.
Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus in Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Multicenter Study in Japan
Authors: Hama Takanori , Tokumaru Yutaka , Fujii Masato , Yane Katsunari , Okami Kenji , Kato Kengo , Masuda Muneyuki , Mineta Hiroyuki , Nakashima Torahiko , Sugasawa Masashi , Sakihama Noriyuki , Yoshizaki Tomokazu , Hanazawa Toyoyuki , Kato Hisayuki , Hirano Shigeru , Imanishi Yorihisa , Kuratomi Yuichirou , Otsuki Naoki , Ota Ichiro , Sugimoto Taro , Suzuki Shinsuke
Published: July 2014

Background: The incidence rates of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) have risen steadily in the USA and in northern Europe. These increases are thought to be a consequence of persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) in OPSCC patients. HPV is an emerging etiologic factor in OPSCC. In Japan, the incidence of OPSCC has significantly increased over the last three decades. However, the population of HPV-positive OPSCC patients is currently unknown. We examined the nationwide trends with regard to HPV incidence in OPSCC patients at 21 specific sites, and examined the relationship between the presence of HPV and survival in OPSCC patients in Japan. Methods: Tumor samples were obtained from patients with OPSCC prior to treatment, and HPV infection was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2) was also adopted for swab examination on the surface of fresh tumors. Results: HPV was detected by PCR in 79 (50.3%) out of 157 OPSCC patients. The clinical features of HPV-positive OPSCC were low differentiation, a tendency to involve the lateral wall, and high nodal staging. The sensitivity and specificity of HC2 were 93.7 and 96.2%, respectively, indicating its utility as a screening test. HPV-positive patients had significantly better overall survival and disease-free survival than HPV-negative patients.
Composite Hyoid Bone Graft Interposition for the Treatment of Laryngotracheal Stenosis
Authors: Mizokami Daisuke , Araki Koji , Tomifuji Masayuki , Mori Yuko , Shiotani Akihiro
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Chronic laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) remains a challenging problem for otolaryngologists. A composite hyoid bone interposition graft has the potential to be an ideal graft because the head and neck surgeon can obtain the graft in the same operative field with good vascular supply from the muscle pedicle. Methods: A composite hyoid interposition graft was used to provide structural support for the reconstructed lumen of the larynx or trachea in 2 cases of LTS. Results: Two patients underwent successful decannulation with acceptable laryngeal function over a long-term observation period. Conclusion: This technique allows vascularized stable graft survival with minimal donor site morbidity. Furthermore, it can be performed for thyroid, cricoid, and tracheal stenosis without fear of damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerves.
Gonadal Development in Fish
Authors: Nishimura Toshiya , Tanaka Minoru
Published: July 2014

Vertebrate reproduction depends on the function of 2 distinct gametes, sperm and eggs, which develop in 2 different organs, the testis and the ovary. Testes and ovaries are composed of germ cells, supporting cells and interstitial cells. In this review, we describe the origin and the fate of these cell lineages and how they interact with each other to form sexually dimorphic reproductive organs in medaka. We delineate how the temporally different association and establishment of these lineages contribute to a variety of seemingly different sex differentiation processes among teleost fish. Thus, teleosts represent an intriguing group in which to study the fundamental processes of gonadal development through comparing conserved and unique mechanisms.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Promote Thrombin Generation Through Platelet-Dependent and Platelet-Independent Mechanisms
Authors: Gould Travis J. , Vu Trang T. , Swystun Laura L. , Dwivedi Dhruva J. , Mai Safiah H.C. , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Liaw Patricia C.
Published: July 2014

Objective—

Activation of neutrophils by microbial or inflammatory stimuli results in the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that are composed of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins. In purified systems, cell-free DNA (CFDNA) activates the intrinsic pathway of coagulation, whereas histones promote thrombin generation through platelet-dependent mechanisms. However, the overall procoagulant effects of CFDNA/histone complexes as part of intact NETs are unknown. In this study, we examined the procoagulant potential of intact NETs released from activated neutrophils. We also determined the relative contribution of CFDNA and histones to thrombin generation in plasmas from patients with sepsis.

Approach and Results—

NETs released from phorbyl myristate–activated neutrophils enhance thrombin generation in platelet-poor plasma. This effect was DNA dependent (confirmed by DNase treatment) and occurred via the intrinsic pathway of coagulation (confirmed with coagulation factor XII– and coagulation factor XI–depleted plasma). In platelet-rich plasma treated with corn trypsin inhibitor, addition of phorbyl myristate–activated neutrophils increased thrombin generation and shortened the lag time in a toll-like receptor-2– and toll-like receptor-4–dependent mechanism. Addition of DNase further augmented thrombin generation, suggesting that dismantling of the NET scaffold increases histone-mediated, platelet-dependent thrombin generation. In platelet-poor plasma samples from patients with sepsis, we found a positive correlation between endogenous CFDNA and thrombin generation, and addition of DNase attenuated thrombin generation.

Conclusions—

These studies examine the procoagulant activities of CFDNA and histones in the context of NETs. Our studies also implicate a role for the intrinsic pathway of coagulation in sepsis pathogenesis.
Effects of an Antisense Oligonucleotide Inhibitor of C‐Reactive Protein Synthesis on the Endotoxin Challenge Response in Healthy Human Male Volunteers
Authors: Noveck Robert , Stroes Erik S. G. , Flaim JoAnn D. , Baker Brenda F. , Hughes Steve , Graham Mark J. , Crooke Rosanne M. , Ridker Paul M
Published: July 2014

Background

C‐reactive protein (
CRP
) binds to damaged cells, activates the classical complement pathway, is elevated in multiple inflammatory conditions, and provides prognostic information on risk of future atherosclerotic events. It is controversial, however, as to whether inhibiting
CRP
synthesis would have any direct anti‐inflammatory effects in humans.

Methods and Results

A placebo‐controlled study was used to evaluate the effects of
ISIS
329993 (
ISIS
‐

CRP
R

x
) on the acute‐phase response after endotoxin challenge in 30 evaluable subjects. Healthy adult males were randomly allocated to receive 6 injections over a 22‐day period of placebo or active therapy with
ISIS
329993 at 400‐ or 600‐mg doses. Eligible subjects were subsequently challenged with a bolus of endotoxin (2 ng/kg). Inflammatory and hematological biomarkers were measured before and serially after the challenge.
ISIS
‐

CRP
R

x
was well tolerated with no serious adverse events. Median
CRP
levels increased more than 50‐fold from baseline 24 hours after endotoxin challenge in the placebo group. In contrast, the median increase in
CRP
levels was attenuated by 37% (400 mg) and 69% (600 mg) in subjects pretreated with
ISIS
‐

CRP
R

x
(
P
<0.05 vs. placebo). All other aspects of the acute inflammatory response were similar between treatment groups.

Conclusion

Pretreatment of subjects with
ISIS
‐

CRP
R

x
selectively reduced the endotoxin‐induced increase in
CRP
levels in a dose‐dependent manner, without affecting other components of the acute‐phase response. These data demonstrate the specificity of antisense oligonucleotides and provide an investigative tool to further define the role of
CRP
in human pathological conditions.
Climate and Energy Policy in the eu and Germany at a cross roads
Authors: Marr Simon
Published: July 2014

For decades the eu claimed for itself political leadership in fighting climate change. Less than two years from now to the global climate conference in Paris (in 2015), however, the eu’s climate policy stands at a cross roads: The eu can leave its impact weak or it decides to strengthen it showing global leadership in international climate policy making again. The situation is similar in Germany. Europe’s self-styled climate policy leader and architect of an economy-wide energy transformation (“Energiewende”) that followed the Fukushima events in 2011, the country now finds itself embattled by industry, political interest groups and consumers, and it risks losing track. If political leaders wish to save the “Energiewende” – certainly one of the boldest political reforms in decades – they need to get serious about putting it into practice.
Germany’s Renewable Energy Law, State Aid and the Internal Market
Authors: von Unger Moritz
Published: July 2014

Germany’s Renewable Energy Law (eeg) has come under pressure. The European Commission announced in December 2013 that it would perform an investigation for violation of state aid rules. The eeg subsidizes the production of renewable energy and requires electricity consumers to pay an “eeg surcharge”. The Commission is concerned that energy-intensive industries are largely exempt from paying the eeg surcharge and considers the privileges as illegal state aid. Germany disagrees arguing that they are a necessary means to balance the interest of the environment and those of industry burdened with high energy costs. Compromise is feasible, however, and negotiations are ongoing. Arguably more threatening is the legal prospect from Ålands Vindkraft, a case in which the Court will judge whether the restriction of feed-in-tariffs to domestic sources violates Article 34 tfeu. If the Court follows the opinion of General Advocate Bot, Germany may have to open the eeg subsidy scheme to renewable sources outside the country, surely leading German voters to question the legitimacy of the eeg altogether.
Recent Developments in eu Environmental Policy and Legislation
Authors: Gordeeva Yelena M.
Published: July 2014

This section briefly describes the significant political initiatives and acts of legislation in the environmental field adopted from December 2013 until February 2014.
Competing for European Settlers
Authors: Zijlstra Suze
Published: July 2014

This article deals with the quest for settlers of the colonial governments in Dutch Suriname and English Jamaica in the 1660s and 1670s. The governors of both newly conquered colonies were eager to further develop the plantations and considered acquiring new colonists as essential. However, not many people were willing to move to the Caribbean and experienced colonists were particularly hard to recruit. This article compares the attempts of the governments of Suriname and Jamaica to attract colonists from other colonies. While a strong rivalry existed between colonies of different European countries, this article will demonstrate that competition between colonies of the same country was also intense. These colonial governments disregarded broader imperial interests when it was in their own colony’s interest, which demonstrates their relatively independent attitude and the local focus of their loyalty.
Ybytyramoan, a new genus of fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae, Lampyrinae, Photinini) endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, with description of three new species
Authors: DA SILVEIRA LUIZ FELIPE LIMA , MERMUDES JOSÉ RICARDO M.
Published: July 2014

Here we describe a new Photinina genus with three species endemic to Serra dos Órgãos Mountains in Brazil. Ybytyramoan gen. nov. occurs in high altitudes, from 980m up to 2000m, and has the following unique set of characters: head abruptly depressed at vertex; lanterns not fully developed, somewhat rounded or anteriorly rounded, straight posteriad, with posterolateral rounded projections (billycock-shaped), at the middle of the abdominal sterna VI and VII; abdominal sternum VIII not covered by VII; phallus and parameres apically teethed. We provide illustrations and a key to the three species in this genus: Ybytyramoan praeclarum sp. nov. (type-species), Y. diasi sp. nov., Y. monteirorum sp. nov.
A review of the louse genus Tinamotaecola (Insecta: Phthiraptera: Philopteridae sensu lato), with description of a new species
Authors: CICCHINO ARMANDO C. , VALIM MICHEL P. , GONZÁLEZ-ACUÑA DANIEL
Published: July 2014

We studied a collection of lice from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Chile containing all four known species and one new species (described herein) in the genus Tinamotaecola, parasites of birds of the families Cariamidae and Tinamidae. We also (1) describe previously unknown second and third nymphal instars of two Tinamotaecola species, (2) discuss hosts and geographical ranges for all Tinamotaecola species, and (3) speculate on possible macroevolutionary events that may explain the current distribution of these lice on their respective avian hosts.
A new species of Galendromimus Muma from Brazil (Acari: Phytoseiidae), with a review of the tribe Galendromimini Chant & McMurtry
Authors: DEMITE PETERSON R. , GONDIM MANOEL Jr. G.C. , LOFEGO ANTONIO C. , De MORAES GILBERTO J.
Published: July 2014

The genus Galendromimus Muma and the tribe Galendromimini Chant & McMurtry are redefined to accommodate a new species, Galendromimus (Galendromimus) roraimensis sp. n., described in this paper based on specimens collected in the state of Roraima, northern Brazil. The new species differs from other Galendromimus mainly by having dorsal shield seta z3 present. A dichotomous key to separate the species of Galendromimini is presented.