bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Centralization of Obstetric Care Resources in Japan on the Perinatal Mortality Rate
Authors: Sudo Akira , Kuroda Yoshiki
Published: September 2013

Objective. We investigated the effects of the centralization of obstetricians and obstetric care facilities on the perinatal mortality rate in Japan. Methods. We used the Gini coefficient as an index to represent the centralization of obstetricians and obstetric care facilities. The Gini coefficients were calculated for the number of obstetricians and obstetric care facilities of 47 prefectures using secondary medical care zones as units. To measure the effects of the centralization of obstetricians and obstetric care facilities on the outcomes (perinatal mortality rates), we performed multiple regression analysis using the perinatal mortality rate as the dependent variable. Results. Obstetric care facilities were more evenly distributed than obstetricians. The perinatal mortality rate was found to be significantly negatively correlated with the number of obstetricians per capita and the Gini coefficient of obstetric care facilities. The latter had a slightly stronger effect on the perinatal mortality rate. Conclusion. The centralization of obstetric care facilities can improve the perinatal mortality rate, even when increasing the number of obstetricians is difficult.
Therapeutic Doses of Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs Inhibit Osteosarcoma MG‐63 Osteoblast‐Like Cells Maturation, Viability, and Biomineralization Potential
Authors: De Luna-Bertos E. , Ramos-Torrecillas J. , García-Martínez O. , Guildford A. , Santin M. , Ruiz C.
Published: September 2013

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are frequently used to reduce pain and inflammation. However, their effect on bone metabolisms is not well known, and results in the literature are contradictory. The present study focusses on the effect of dexketoprofen, ketorolac, metamizole, and acetylsalicylic acid, at therapeutic doses, on different biochemical and phenotypic pathways in human osteoblast‐like cells. Osteoblasts (MG‐63 cell line) were incubated in culture medium with 1–10 μM of dexketoprofen, ketorolac, metamizole, and acetylsalicylic acid. Flow cytometry was used to study antigenic profile and phagocytic activity. The osteoblastic differentiation was evaluated by mineralization and synthesis of collagen fibers by microscopy and alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) by spectrophotometric assay. Short‐term treatment with therapeutic doses of NSAIDs modulated differentiation, antigenic profile, and phagocyte activity of osteoblast‐like cells. The treatment reduced ALP synthesis and matrix mineralization. However, nonsignificant differences were observed on collagen syntheses after treatments. The percentage of CD54 expression was increased with all treatments. CD80, CD86, and HLA‐DR showed a decreased expression, which depended on NSAID and the dose applied. The treatments also decreased phagocyte activity in this cellular population. The results of this paper provide evidences that NSAIDs inhibit the osteoblast differentiation process thus reducing their ability to produce new bone mineralized extracellular matrix.
An Efficient Mesh Generation Method for Fractured Network System Based on Dynamic Grid Deformation
Authors: Sun Shuli , Sui Jie , Chen Bin , Yuan Mingwu
Published: September 2013

Meshing quality of the discrete model influences the accuracy, convergence, and efficiency of the solution for fractured network system in geological problem. However, modeling and meshing of such a fractured network system are usually tedious and difficult due to geometric complexity of the computational domain induced by existence and extension of fractures. The traditional meshing method to deal with fractures usually involves boundary recovery operation based on topological transformation, which relies on many complicated techniques and skills. This paper presents an alternative and efficient approach for meshing fractured network system. The method firstly presets points on fractures and then performs Delaunay triangulation to obtain preliminary mesh by point-by-point centroid insertion algorithm. Then the fractures are exactly recovered by local correction with revised dynamic grid deformation approach. Smoothing algorithm is finally applied to improve the quality of mesh. The proposed approach is efficient, easy to implement, and applicable to the cases of initial existing fractures and extension of fractures. The method is successfully applied to modeling of two- and three-dimensional discrete fractured network (DFN) system in geological problems to demonstrate its effectiveness and high efficiency.
A Novel PROMSIS Vertical Handoff Decision Algorithm for Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
Authors: Liu Shengmei , Zheng Zhongjiu , Pan Su
Published: September 2013

A novel preference ranking organization method by similarity to ideal solution (PROMSIS) vertical handoff algorithm is proposed for heterogeneous wireless networks, and its essential idea includes the preference structure of the PROMETHEE and the concept of Euclid distance of the TOPSIS. Four 3GPP defined traffic classes are considered in performance evaluation. An attribute matrix is constructed considering some major attributes. Handoff decision meeting multiattribute QoS requirement is made according to the traffic features. The weight relation of decision elements is determined with the least square (LS) approach. The final decision is made using the proposed PROMSIS algorithm based on the attribute matrix and weight vector. The simulation results have manifested that the proposed PROMSIS algorithm can provide satisfactory vertical handoff performance, and the LS-PROMSIS algorithm can be fit to the characteristics of the traffic.
Pulmonary Thromboembolism in a Child with Sickle Cell Hemoglobin D Disease in the Setting of Acute Chest Syndrome
Authors: Villanueva Hazel , Kuril Sandeepkumar , Krajewski Jennifer , Sedrak Aziza
Published: September 2013

Introduction. Sickle cell hemoglobin D disease (HbSD) is a rare variant of sickle cell disease (SCD). Incidence of pulmonary thromboembolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in children with HbSD is unknown. PE and DVT are known complications of SCD in adults but have not been reported in the literature in children with HbSD.Case Report. We are reporting a case of a 12-year-old boy with HbSD with acute chest syndrome (ACS) complicated by complete thrombosis of the branch of the right pulmonary artery and multiple small pulmonary artery emboli seen on computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiogram and thrombosis of the right brachial vein seen on Doppler ultrasound. Our patient responded to treatment with anticoagulant therapy.Conclusion. There are no cases reported in children with HbSD disease presenting as ACS with pulmonary thromboembolism. We suggest that PE should be suspected in patients presenting with ACS who do not show improvement with standard management. CT pulmonary angiogram should be utilized for early diagnosis and appropriate management as there is no current protocol for management of PE/DVT in pediatric patients with SCD.
Synthesis of Novel 1,2,4‐Triazole Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents via the Japp‐Klingemann Reaction: Investigation of Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Taj Tasneem , Kamble Ravindra R. , Dorababu Atukuri , Meti Gangadhar Y.
Published: September 2013

In the present investigation, 1,2,4‐triazole appended to pyrazoline and pyrazole rings (4a–g) using N‐arylsydnone as synthon was prepared. The title compounds were subjected to Osiris property explorer for the oral bioavailability to analyze their drug likeness and drug score. Further, the compounds were subjected to the antimicrobial activity and analyzed the IC 50 and MIC values.
Late Occurring Ectopic Pregnancy in a Posthysterectomy Patient
Authors: Anis Munazza , Irshad Abid , Ackerman Susan
Published: September 2013

The incidence of ectopic pregnancy after hysterectomy is extremely rare with only 56 cases reported in the medical literature. Due to its rare occurrence, this diagnosis may not be initially considered when such a patient presents with abdominopelvic pain. It is an important diagnosis to keep in mind since a delay in diagnosis may lead to death. The case presented below describes this extremely unusual diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy which occurred six years after a supracervical hysterectomy.
Plasma Levels of Adiponectin and Primary Liver Cancer Risk in Middle-Aged Japanese Adults with Hepatitis Virus Infection: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Michikawa Takehiro , Inoue Manami , Sawada Norie , Sasazuki Shizuka , Tanaka Yasuhito , Iwasaki Motoki , Shimazu Taichi , Yamaji Taiki , Mizokami Masashi , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the Japan Public Health Center–based Prospective Study Group
Published: September 2013

Background: Excess body weight is an independent risk factor for primary liver cancer, and the role of adiponectin in the pathogenesis of obesity-related malignancies is a focus of research interest. Few prospective studies have examined the association between circulating adiponectin and liver cancer risk, so we investigated this association in a nested case–control study of a population-based prospective cohort in Japan.

Methods: From 18,628 target participants of ages 40 to 69 years who returned the baseline questionnaire and provided blood samples, we selected those with either hepatitis B or C virus infection at baseline (n = 1,544). Among these, 90 were newly diagnosed with primary liver cancer from 1993 through 2006, and matched to 177 controls. The ORs of liver cancer development based on plasma levels of adiponectin were estimated with a conditional logistic regression model.

Results: Median values of total and high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin tended to be higher in the patients with liver cancer, and plasma levels of adiponectin were positively associated with liver cancer risk. Body mass index– and diabetes-adjusted ORs for the highest tertile of total and HMW adiponectin levels versus the lowest were 3.30 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.45–7.53; Ptrend < 0.01] and 3.41 (95% CI, 1.50–7.73; Ptrend < 0.01), respectively. There was no effect modification by body mass index and diabetes.

Conclusions: Higher plasma adiponectin levels were associated with an increased risk of primary liver cancer in middle-aged Japanese adults with hepatitis virus infection.

Impact: Circulating adiponectin levels may be a risk marker for primary liver cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(12); 2250–7. ©2013 AACR.
Prediagnostic Serum Tocopherol Levels and the Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: The Multiethnic Cohort
Authors: Morimoto Yukiko , Ollberding Nicholas J. , Cooney Robert V. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Franke Adrian A. , Le Marchand Loïc , Goodman Marc T. , Hernandez Brenda Y. , Kolonel Laurence N. , Maskarinec Gertraud
Published: September 2013

Background: Compromised immunity and chronic inflammation are thought to contribute to the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Because tocopherols protect cells through antioxidant mechanisms, they may play a role in NHL etiology.

Methods: This nested case–control study within the Multiethnic Cohort examined the association of prediagnostic serum tocopherols levels measured in 271 NHL cases and 538 matched controls by high-pressure liquid chromatography/photodiode array detection with NHL risk. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results: We observed U-shaped associations with NHL for total and α-tocopherols [Ptrend < 0.01 for polynomial terms (3 df)]. The ORs (95% CI) for total tocopherols, which consisted primarily of α-tocopherol, were 0.41 (0.25–0.68), 0.52 (0.32–0.85), 0.39 (0.23–0.65), and 0.78 (0.47–1.29) for the second to fifth quintiles as compared with the first. The risk estimates were similar for α-tocopherol but nonsignificant for β- and γ-tocopherol combined and for γ-tocopherol. Adjustment for serum lipids strengthened the nonlinear associations for total and α-tocopherols. Serum total tocopherol levels were higher for vitamin E supplement users at cohort entry than nonusers (21.32 ± 9.04 vs. 17.72 ± 7.43 μg/mL; P < 0.0001), but supplement use was not associated with NHL risk. No heterogeneity in risk estimates was detected by sex, ethnicity, vitamin E supplement use, or NHL subtype.

Conclusions: Circulating tocopherols, at levels likely reflecting adequate dietary intakes, may be protective against NHL, whereas higher intakes from supplementation may not be beneficial.

Impact: The association between serum tocopherol levels and NHL risk provides possible new insights into the etiology of NHL. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(11); 2075–83. ©2013 AACR.
Collaborative Cancer Epidemiology in the 21st Century: The Model of Cancer Consortia
Authors: Burgio Michael R. , Ioannidis John P.A. , Kaminski Brett M. , DeRycke Eric , Rogers Scott , Khoury Muin J. , Seminara Daniela
Published: September 2013

During the last two decades, epidemiology has undergone a rapid evolution toward collaborative research. The proliferation of multi-institutional, interdisciplinary consortia has acquired particular prominence in cancer research. Herein, we describe the characteristics of a network of 49 established cancer epidemiology consortia (CEC) currently supported by the Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program (EGRP) at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This collection represents the largest disease-based research network for collaborative cancer research established in population sciences. We describe the funding trends, geographic distribution, and areas of research focus. The CEC have been partially supported by 201 grants and yielded 3,876 publications between 1995 and 2011. We describe this output in terms of interdisciplinary collaboration and translational evolution. We discuss challenges and future opportunities in the establishment and conduct of large-scale team science within the framework of CEC, review future prospects for this approach to large-scale, interdisciplinary cancer research, and describe a model for the evolution of an integrated Network of Cancer Consortia optimally suited to address and support 21st-century epidemiology. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(12); 2148–60. ©2013 AACR.
Serum Biomarkers of Immune Activation and Subsequent Risk of Non-Hodgkin B-Cell Lymphoma among HIV-Infected Women
Authors: Hussain Shehnaz K. , Hessol Nancy A. , Levine Alexandra M. , Breen Elizabeth Crabb , Anastos Kathryn , Cohen Mardge , D'Souza Gypsyamber , Gustafson Deborah R. , Silver Sylvia , Martínez-Maza Otoniel
Published: September 2013

Background: There is increasing evidence that chronic immune activation predisposes to non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Whether this association exists among women representative of the current HIV epidemic in the United States who are at high risk of HIV-associated NHL (AIDS-NHL), remains to be determined.

Methods: We conducted a nested case–control study within the Women's Interagency HIV Study with longitudinally collected risk factor data and sera. Cases were HIV-infected women with stored sera collected at three time-windows 3 to 5 years, 1 to 3 years, and 0 to 1 year before AIDS-NHL diagnosis (n = 22). Three to six HIV-infected controls, without AIDS-NHL, were matched to each case on age, race, CD4+ T-cell count, and study follow-up time (n = 78). ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between one unit increase in log-transformed biomarker levels and AIDS-NHL were computed using random effect multivariate logistic regression models.

Results: Elevated levels of sCD27 (OR = 7.21; 95% CI, 2.62–19.88), sCD30 (OR = 2.64; 95% CI, 1.24–5.64), and CXCL13 (OR = 2.56; 95% CI, 1.32–4.96) were associated with subsequent diagnosis of AIDS-NHL overall. Elevated sCD23 was associated with a two to three-fold increased risk of AIDS-NHL in certain subgroups, whereas elevated interleukin 6 was associated with a two-fold increased risk in the 0 to 1 year time-window, only.

Conclusions: These findings support the hypothesis that chronic B-cell activation contributes to the development of AIDS-NHL in women.

Impact: Soluble CD23 (sCD23), sCD27, sCD30, and CXCL13 may serve as biomarkers for AIDS-NHL. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(11); 2084–93. ©2013 AACR.
CD137 Accurately Identifies and Enriches for Naturally Occurring Tumor-Reactive T Cells in Tumor
Authors: Ye Qunrui , Song De-Gang , Poussin Mathilde , Yamamoto Tori , Best Andrew , Li Chunsheng , Coukos George , Powell Daniel J.
Published: September 2013

Purpose: Upregulation of CD137 (4-1BB) on recently activated CD8+ T cells has been used to identify rare viral or tumor antigen-specific T cells from peripheral blood. Here, we evaluated the immunobiology of CD137 in human cancer and the utility of a CD137-positive separation methodology for the identification and enrichment of fresh tumor-reactive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) or tumor-associated lymphocytes (TAL) from ascites for use in adoptive immunotherapy.

Experimental Design: TILs from resected ovarian cancer or melanoma were measured for surface CD137 expression directly or after overnight incubation in the presence of tumor cells and homeostatic cytokines. CD137pos TILs were sorted and evaluated for antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo.

Results: Fresh ovarian TILs and TALs naturally expressed higher levels of CD137 than circulating T cells. An HLA-dependent increase in CD137 expression was observed following incubation of fresh enzyme-digested tumor or ascites in IL-7 and IL-15 cytokines, but not IL-2. Enriched CD137pos TILs, but not PD-1pos or PD-1neg CD137neg cells, possessed autologous tumor reactivity in vitro and in vivo. In melanoma studies, all MART-1–specific CD8+ TILs upregulated CD137 expression after incubation with HLA-matched, MART-expressing cancer cells and antigen-specific effector function was restricted to the CD137pos subset in vitro. CD137pos TILs also mediated superior antitumor effects in vivo, compared with CD137neg TILs.

Conclusions: Our findings reveal a role for the TNFR-family member CD137 in the immunobiology of human cancer where it is preferentially expressed on tumor-reactive subset of TILs, thus rationalizing its agonistic engagement in vivo and its use in TIL selection for adoptive immunotherapy trials. Clin Cancer Res; 20(1); 44–55. ©2013 AACR.
Pruritic Acquired Nevus of Ota
Authors: Quenan S. , Strueven V. , Saxer N. , Laffitte E. , Kaya G. , Krischer J. , Hafezi F. , Le Gal F.-A.
Published: September 2013

Nevus of Ota is a unilateral, asymptomatic cutaneous and mucosal hyperpigmentation of the face that is congenital or may appear during childhood. We present a case of symptomatic acquired nevus of Ota in an adult, associated with intense pruritus, not described in the literature so far. A 32-year-old woman presented with brownish mottled macules which appeared on her face progressively over 8 days, following the distribution of the first and second divisions of the left trigeminal nerve and partially covering the iris and sclera of the left eye. She reported an intense pruritus in this area. We performed a biopsy on the left forehead, which confirmed the diagnosis of nevus of Ota. Specific stains and immunohistochemistry revealed increased numbers of mast cells. Ophthalmological tests showed acute acquired melanocytosis of the left iris and sclera. The origin of the nevus is still unclear. Several hypotheses suggest a reactivation of melanocytes during their migration from the neural crest. The pruritus reported in our patient may be explained by the increased quantity of mast cells observed in the lesion and/or neuronal stimulation of the ophthalmic and maxillary divisions of the fifth cranial nerve.
Gli3 Regulation of Myogenesis Is Necessary for Ischemia-Induced Angiogenesis
Authors: Renault Marie-Ange , Vandierdonck Soizic , Chapouly Candice , Yu Yang , Qin Gangjian , Metras Alexandre , Couffinhal Thierry , Losordo Douglas W. , Yao Qinyu , Reynaud Annabel , Jaspard-Vinassa Béatrice , Belloc Isabelle , Desgranges Claude , Gadeau Alain-Pierre
Published: September 2013

Rationale:

A better understanding of the mechanism underlying skeletal muscle repair is required to develop therapies that promote tissue regeneration in adults. Hedgehog signaling has been shown previously to be involved in myogenesis and angiogenesis: 2 crucial processes for muscle development and regeneration.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to identify the role of the hedgehog transcription factor Gli3 in the cross-talk between angiogenesis and myogenesis in adults.

Methods and Results:

Using conditional knockout mice, we found that Gli3 deficiency in endothelial cells did not affect ischemic muscle repair, whereas in myocytes, Gli3 deficiency resulted in severely delayed ischemia-induced myogenesis. Moreover, angiogenesis was also significantly impaired in HSA-Cre
ERT2
; Gli3
Flox/Flox
mice, demonstrating that impaired myogenesis indirectly affects ischemia-induced angiogenesis. The role of Gli3 in myocytes was then further investigated. We found that Gli3 promotes myoblast differentiation through myogenic factor 5 regulation. In addition, we found that Gli3 regulates several proangiogenic factors, including thymidine phosphorylase and angiopoietin-1 both in vitro and in vivo, which indirectly promote endothelial cell proliferation and arteriole formation. In addition, we found that Gli3 is upregulated in proliferating myoblasts by the cell cycle–associated transcription factor E2F1.

Conclusions:

This study shows for the first time that Gli3-regulated postnatal myogenesis is necessary for muscle repair–associated angiogenesis. Most importantly, it implies that myogenesis drives angiogenesis in the setting of skeletal muscle repair and identifies Gli3 as a potential target for regenerative medicine.
Does Socioeconomic Status or Acculturation Modify the Association Between Ethnicity and Hypertension Treatment Before Stroke?
Authors: Levine Deborah A. , Morgenstern Lewis B. , Langa Kenneth M. , Skolarus Lesli E. , Smith Melinda A. , Lisabeth Lynda D.
Published: September 2013

Background and Purpose—

Socioeconomic status and acculturation may modify the association between ethnicity and hypertension treatment before stroke. We assessed prestroke treatment of hypertension by ethnicity, education (proxy for socioeconomic status), and English proficiency (EP; proxy for acculturation) in a population-based stroke surveillance project.

Methods—

Among 763 patients with first-ever stroke aged ≥45 years in the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi project from 2000 to 2006, we examined self-reported hypertension treatment at the time of the stroke by ethnicity (Mexican American [MA] versus non–Hispanic white [NHW]) in the overall sample, within education strata (high school), and after dichotomizing MAs by self-reported EP (limited versus proficient). Logistic regression adjusted associations for age, sex, education, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, hypercholesterolemia, and health insurance.

Results—

NHWs and MAs reported similar hypertension treatment (84% versus 86%;
P
=0.53). Hypertension treatment was 84% for NHWs and 90% for MAs (
P
=0.18) in <high school stratum, 87% for NHWs and 75% for MAs (
P
=0.07) in high school stratum, and 81% for NHWs and 78% for MAs (
P
=0.73) in >high school stratum (ethnicity-by-education interaction,
P
=0.09). Hypertension treatment was 83% for NHWs, 87% for MAs with EP (
P
vsNHWs
=0.35), and 90% for MAs with limited EP (
P
vsNHWs
=0.13; ethnicity-by-EP interaction,
P
=0.22). Hypertension treatment was lower in uninsured patients (adjusted odds ratio, 0.13; 95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.60) or those with no physician visit ≤6 months (adjusted odds ratio, 0.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.24).

Conclusions—

We found no evidence that socioeconomic status or acculturation modifies the association between ethnicity and hypertension treatment before stroke.
Not Lost in Translation: Generalization of the Primary Systems Hypothesis to Japanese-specific Language Processes
Authors: Ueno Taiji , Saito Satoru , Saito Akie , Tanida Yuki , Patterson Karalyn , Lambon Ralph Matthew A.
Published: September 2013

The emergentist-connectionist approach assumes that language processing reflects interaction between primary neural systems (Primary Systems Hypothesis). This idea offers an overarching framework that generalizes to various kinds of (English) language and nonverbal cognitive activities. The current study advances this approach with respect to language in two new and important ways. The first is the provision of a neuroanatomically constrained implementation of the theory. The second is a test of its ability to generalize to a language other than English (in this case Japanese) and, in particular, to a feature of that language (pitch accent) for which there is no English equivalent. A corpus analysis revealed the presence and distribution of typical and atypical accent forms in Japanese vocabulary, forming a quasiregular domain. Consequently, according to the Primary Systems Hypothesis, there should be a greater semantic impact on the processing of words with an atypical pitch accent. In turn, when word meaning is intrinsically less rich (e.g., abstract words), speakers should be prone to regularization errors of pitch accent. We explored these semantic-phonological interactions, first, in a neuroanatomically constrained, parallel-distributed processing model of spoken language processing. This model captured the accent typicality effect observed in nonword repetition in Japanese adults and children and exhibited the predicted semantic impact on repetition of words with atypical accent patterns. Second, also as predicted, in word repetition and immediate serial recall of spoken words, human participants exhibited reduced pitch–accent accuracy and/or slower RT for low imageability words with atypical accent patterns, and they generated accent errors reflecting the more typical accent patterns found in Japanese.
Reinforcement Learning of Two-Joint Virtual Arm Reaching in a Computer Model of Sensorimotor Cortex
Authors: Neymotin Samuel A. , Chadderdon George L. , Kerr Cliff C. , Francis Joseph T. , Lytton William W.
Published: September 2013

Neocortical mechanisms of learning sensorimotor control involve a complex series of interactions at multiple levels, from synaptic mechanisms to cellular dynamics to network connectomics. We developed a model of sensory and motor neocortex consisting of 704 spiking model neurons. Sensory and motor populations included excitatory cells and two types of interneurons. Neurons were interconnected with AMPA/NMDA and GABAA synapses. We trained our model using spike-timing-dependent reinforcement learning to control a two-joint virtual arm to reach to a fixed target. For each of 125 trained networks, we used 200 training sessions, each involving 15 s reaches to the target from 16 starting positions. Learning altered network dynamics, with enhancements to neuronal synchrony and behaviorally relevant information flow between neurons. After learning, networks demonstrated retention of behaviorally relevant memories by using proprioceptive information to perform reach-to-target from multiple starting positions. Networks dynamically controlled which joint rotations to use to reach a target, depending on current arm position. Learning-dependent network reorganization was evident in both sensory and motor populations: learned synaptic weights showed target-specific patterning optimized for particular reach movements. Our model embodies an integrative hypothesis of sensorimotor cortical learning that could be used to interpret future electrophysiological data recorded in vivo from sensorimotor learning experiments. We used our model to make the following predictions: learning enhances synchrony in neuronal populations and behaviorally relevant information flow across neuronal populations, enhanced sensory processing aids task-relevant motor performance and the relative ease of a particular movement in vivo depends on the amount of sensory information required to complete the movement.
How Christian was Fourth Century Egypt? Onomastic Perspectives on Conversion
Authors: Depauw M. , Clarysse W.
Published: September 2013

Abstract

In 1982 Roger Bagnall published a ground-breaking article about conversion to Christianity in fourth century Egypt. Using onomastic data for individuals in seleced texts, he tried to demonstrate that the growth of the Christian element in the population was early and rapid, rising to 90% by the end of the century. A new date for one of the documents led to a revision of the pace of growth in 1987, but his method was never tested on other datasets. In this article we apply an adapted vesion of his method to a large new dataset, containing all attestations of personal names in fourth century documentary papyri and ostraca. We also investigate the accuracy of Christian names as a binary test for Christianity, and estimate the mutiplication factor which can be applied to determine the number of Christians. Our results are similar to the curve which can be distilled from Bagnall’s adapted results in 1987, with 20-30% Christians around 313, a Christian majority around 350 and virtually complete Christianization around the middle of the fifth century.
A new species of Senegalia (Fabaceae) from Brazil
Authors: Seigler David , Morim Marli Pires , Barros Michel J. F. , Ebinger John E.
Published: September 2013

Senegalia hoehnei from the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Pará, Paraná, and Santa Catarina, is described, illustrated, and compared to its probable nearest relative, Senegalia martiusiana.
Freshwater Cyanobacteria of North-Eastern Australia: 2. Chroococcales
Authors: MCGREGOR GLENN B.
Published: September 2013

This volume provides the first detailed account of the Chroococcales of north-eastern Australia. It provides keys, morphological and ecological data for 6 families, 33 genera and 112 species, and photomicrographs and original illustrations to enable the identification of natural populations based on stable and recognizable characters observable with the aid of light microscopy. Distributional data are based on extensive surveys at 270 sites representing the major freshwater habitats including rivers and streams, palustrine and lacustrine wetlands, thermal springs, and man-made reservoirs in Queensland and the Northern Territory as well as a review of the Australian phycological literature.
Revision of Goniocolletes and seven Australian subgenera of Leioproctus (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Colletidae), and description of new taxa
Authors: MAYNARD GLYNN VIVIAN
Published: September 2013

This paper provides a revision of Goniocolletes Cockerell, and of Australian subgenera of Leioproctus Smith (Hymenoptera: Colletidae: Paracolletini) with three submarginal cells. Seven subgenera were revised: Leioproctus s.str., L. (Ceratocolletes) Michener, L. (Cladocerapis) Cockerell, L. (Excolletes) Michener, L. (Lamprocolletes) Smith, L. (Odontocolletes) Maynard, and L. (Protomorpha) Rayment, and seven new subgenera are herein described: L. (Alokocolletes) subgen.n., L. (Charicolletes) subgen.n., L. (Exleycolletes) subgen.n., L. (Fragocolletes) subgen.n., L. (Hadrocolletes) subgen.n., L. (Minycolletes) subgen.n. and L. (Zosterocolletes) subgen.n. Seven new species of Goniocolletes (Goinocolletes anthedonus sp.n.; Goniocolletes badius sp.n.; Goniocolletes ciliatus sp.n.; Goniocolletes comatus sp.n.; Goniocolletes dasypus sp.n.; Goniocolletes parvus sp.n.; Goniocolletes rugosus sp.n.) and 13 new species of Leioproctus (Leioproctus (Minycolletes) aquilus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Leioproctus) crinitus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Minycolletes) eruditus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Minycolletes) exiguus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Charicolletes) exleyae sp.n.; Leioproctus (Minycolletes) insitus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Leioproctus) litotes sp.n.; Leioproctus (Minycolletes) paulus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Minycolletes) pygmaeus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Leioproctus) quadrimaculatus sp.n.; Leioproctus (Fragocolletes) rutiliventris sp.n.; Leioproctus (Charicolletes) saltus sp.n., and Leioproctus (Alokocolletes) sequax sp.n.) are described. Additionally seven new species-level synonymies are recognized in Goniocolletes and 59 new species-level synonymies in Leioproctus. Most of the species in Leioproctus (Leioproctus) are placed in species groups. One species of Leioproctus with three submarginal cells was not assigned to any subgenus and is therefore treated as incertae sedis regarding its subgeneric placement: Leioproctus opaculus (Cockerell 1929). Additionally some notes on the biology of Leioproctus are provided. Leioproctus in Australia, as recognised in this paper, has 172 species.
Conciencia de estigma y calidad de vida en personas con discapacidad física y sensorial
Authors: Carrasco Luis-Francisco , Martín Noemy , Molero Fernando
Published: September 2013

El hecho de pertenecer a un grupo estigmatizado afecta al bienestar y a la calidad de vida de sus miembros. Sin embargo, se desconoce el papel que tiene en el bienestar la conciencia de pertenecer a un grupo estigmatizado. Además, entre los distintos grupos estudiados apenas existe información sobre el colectivo de personas con discapacidad, a pesar de ser un grupo minoritario que sufre también los prejuicios de la sociedad. El objetivo del presente trabajo es estudiar las relaciones entre la conciencia de estigma y la calidad de vida en un grupo de discapacitados españoles, y cuáles son las variables que determinan dicha relación. Han participado un total de 201 personas, 90 con discapacidad sensorial, 102 con discapacidad física y 9 con otros tipos de discapacidad. Los resultados muestran una relación negativa entre la conciencia de estigma y la calidad de vida, encontrando diferencias en función del sexo, del tipo de discapacidady de la razón de la discapacidad.
Variability of Monthly Diurnal Cycle Composites of TOA Radiative Fluxes in the Tropics
Authors: Taylor Patrick C.
Published: September 2013

Earth system variability is generated by a number of different sources and time scales. Understanding sources of atmospheric variability is critical to reducing the uncertainty in climate models and to understanding the impacts of sampling on observational datasets. The diurnal cycle is a fundamental variability evident in many geophysical variables—including top-of-the-atmosphere (TOA) radiative fluxes. This study considers aspects of the TOA flux diurnal cycle not previously analyzed: namely, deseasonalized variations in the monthly diurnal cycle composites, termed monthly diurnal cycle variability. Significant variability in the monthly diurnal cycle composites is found in both outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) and reflected shortwave (RSW). OLR and RSW monthly diurnal cycle variability exhibits a regional structure that follows traditional, climatological diurnal cycle categorization by prevailing cloud and surface types. The results attribute monthly TOA flux diurnal cycle variability to variations in the diurnal cloud evolution, which is sensitive to monthly atmospheric dynamic- and thermodynamic-state anomalies. The results also suggest that monthly diurnal cycle variability can amplify or buffer monthly TOA flux anomalies, depending on the region. Considering the impact of monthly diurnal cycle variability on monthly TOA flux anomalies, the results suggest that monthly TOA flux diurnal cycle variability must be considered when constructing a TOA flux dataset from sun-synchronous orbit. The magnitude of monthly diurnal composite variability in OLR and RSW is regionally dependent—1–7 W m−2 and 10%–80% relative to interannual TOA flux variability. The largest (4–7 W m−2; 40%–80%) and smallest (1–3 W m−2; 10%–30%) TOA flux uncertainties occur in convective and nonconvective regions, respectively, over both land and ocean.
Comparison of the SST-Forced Responses between Coupled and Uncoupled Climate Simulations
Authors: Chen Hua , Schneider Edwin K.
Published: September 2013

It is commonly assumed that a reasonable estimate of the SST-forced component of the observed atmospheric circulation is given by an atmospheric GCM (AGCM) forced with the observed SST. However, there are results that find different SST-forced responses from the observed, for example for the ENSO–monsoon relationship, and suggest that these differences are due to lack of coupling to the ocean rather than atmospheric model bias unrelated to coupling. Here, the coupling issue is isolated and examined through perfect model experiments. A coupled atmosphere–ocean GCM (CGCM) simulation and an AGCM simulation forced by the SST from the CGCM are compared to examine whether the SST-forced responses are the same. This question cannot be addressed directly, since the SST-forced response of the CGCM is a priori unknown. Therefore, two indirect tests are applied, based on the assumption that the noise decorrelation time scale is short compared to a month.

The first test is to compare the time-lagged linear regressions of the atmospheric fields onto several SST indices (defined as the area-averaged SST anomalies in the tropics or extratropics), with SST leading the atmosphere by a month. The second test is to compare the time lagged linear covariances of several atmospheric indices (including two monsoon indices and a North Atlantic Oscillation index) and SST, with the SST leading the atmosphere by a month. Both tests find that the SST-forced responses are the same in the CGCM and SST-forced AGCM. These tests can be extended to compare the SST-forced responses between different AGCMs, CGCMs, and observations.
On Sensitivity Analysis within the 4DVAR Framework*
Authors: Yaremchuk Max , Martin Paul
Published: September 2013

The sensitivity of model forecasts to uncertainties in control variables is evaluated using the adjoint technique and the ensemble generated by the reduced-order four-dimensional variational data assimilation (R4DVAR) algorithm within the framework of twin-data experiments with a quasigeostrophic model. To simulate real applications where the true state is unknown, the sensitivities were estimated using model solutions that were obtained after assimilating sparse observations extracted from the true solutions. The numerical experiments were conducted in the linear, weakly nonlinear, and strongly nonlinear (NL) regimes with special emphasis on the NL case characterized by the instability of the tangent linear model. It is shown that the ensemble-based R4DVAR method provides better sensitivity estimates in the NL case, primarily due to the better accuracy of the optimized solutions. The concept of sensitivity in the NL case is also considered within the statistical framework. Using analytical arguments and numerical experimentation, averaging the adjoint sensitivity estimates over an ensemble of model trajectories generated by finite perturbations of the optimal control is shown to provide an estimate similar to that obtained with the adjoint model stabilized by enhanced dissipation. This observation allows for evaluation of the sensitivities of strongly nonlinear optimal solutions by using both the adjoint (4DVAR) and ensemble (R4DVAR) optimization algorithms.
Mechanical and dry sliding wear characterization of microsize silicon carbide and aluminum oxide–filled ortho cresol novalac epoxy composites
Authors: Dass Kali , Chauhan SR , Gaur Bharti
Published: September 2013

In the present work, the synthesized ortho cresol novalac epoxy-based composites were produced by filling the microsize silicon carbide and aluminum oxide filler particulates. The friction and wear behaviour of these composites were carried out by a pin on disc apparatus at applied normal load of 10 N to 40 N and sliding velocity of 0.9 m/s, 1.8 m/s, 2.7 m/s and 3.6 m/s under dry sliding conditions. It was found that the microsize silicon carbide and aluminum oxide filler particulates contributed significantly to improve the mechanical properties, friction and wear resistance of the ortho cresol novalac epoxy. The coefficient of friction decreases and specific wear rate increases with an increase in the applied normal load. The mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile and flexural strength increases with an increase in the filler content from 0 wt% to 10 wt% and decreases with the filler content of 15 wt%. On the other hand, compression strength increases with an increase in the filler content from 0 wt% to 15 wt%, respectively. It was also seen that the composites filled with 10 wt% (silicon carbide and aluminum oxide) filler exhibit the better mechanical and tribological properties.
Multi-protein Delivery by Nanodiamonds Promotes Bone Formation
Authors: Moore L. , Gatica M. , Kim H. , Osawa E. , Ho D.
Published: September 2013

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are well-studied regulators of cartilage and bone development that have been Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for the promotion of bone formation in certain procedures. BMPs are seeing more use in oral and maxillofacial surgeries because of recent FDA approval of InFUSE® for sinus augmentation and localized alveolar ridge augmentation. However, the utility of BMPs in medical and dental applications is limited by the delivery method. Currently, BMPs are delivered to the surgical site by the implantation of bulky collagen sponges. Here we evaluate the potential of detonation nanodiamonds (NDs) as a delivery vehicle for BMP-2 and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Nanodiamonds are biocompatible, 4- to 5-nm carbon nanoparticles that have previously been used to deliver a wide variety of molecules, including proteins and peptides. We find that both BMP-2 and bFGF are readily loaded onto NDs by physisorption, forming a stable colloidal solution, and are triggered to release in slightly acidic conditions. Simultaneous delivery of BMP-2 and bFGF by ND induces differentiation and proliferation in osteoblast progenitor cells. Overall, we find that NDs provide an effective injectable alternative for the delivery of BMP-2 and bFGF to promote bone formation.
The Heidelberg Catechism in America: A Snapshot from the History of Its Reception
Authors: Hunsinger George
Published: September 2013

Three types of Calvinism are distinguished: evangelical, revivalistic, and rationalistic. John Williamson Nevin represents the first type, Charles Finney the second, and Charles Hodge the third. Nevin appealed to the Heidelberg Catechism in his respective controversies with both Finney and Hodge. For Nevin the Heidelberg Catechism was a moderating influence that could serve as a bulwark against the more extreme Calvinistic tendencies that he set out to combat. By focusing on Nevin, the essay offers a snapshot of how the Heidelberg Catechism functioned in Reformed immigrant communities in America.
Assessing the Generalization of Relapse-Prevention Behaviors of Sexual Offenders Diagnosed With an Intellectual Disability
Authors: Rea Jerry A. , Dixon Michael R. , Zettle Robert D.
Published: September 2013

The generalization of relapse-prevention skills of 10 males residing at a state facility for sexual offenders diagnosed with an intellectual disability was assessed in the community using three different experimental probes: (a) treatment staff (TS), (b) nontreatment staff (NTS), and (c) community adults (CAs). Results indicated a decrease in compliance from the TS to NTS and CAs, with the lowest levels of generalization displayed by offenders who were older and displayed a wider range of paraphilias. The degree of generalization also varied as a function of the contingencies for prevention-plan noncompliance, with higher rates of generalization occurring for violations that were more severely consequated. The implications of the findings for future research in promoting the generalization of relapse-prevention skills of sexual offenders, in general, and those who also exhibit intellectual disabilities, in particular, are discussed.
Personal knowledge and information management – conception and exemplification
Authors: Świgoń Marzena
Published: September 2013

Personal knowledge and information management (PKIM) as an integrated approach of three concepts – personal knowledge management, personal information management and information literacy – is an appropriate and comprehensive approach to these issues with overlapping and supplementary areas of interests. The theoretical basis and results of pioneering empirical studies in the PKIM field, carried out in an academic environment, are presented in this exploratory study. The development and validation of the PKIM scale are characterized. An analysis of the subject literature, discussions with experts and students, and statistical methods used in creation of the PKIM scale, which is an original instrument for measuring a self-assessment of knowledge and information skills of students, are reported. The PKIM self-assessment of Polish students of information science majors and related specializations was high, but not as high as expected. Master’s students reported higher level of PKIM self-assessment than Bachelor’s students.
Electrophysiologic Monitoring Characteristics of the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Preoperatively Paralyzed or Invaded with Malignancy
Authors: Kamani Dipti , Darr E. Ashlie , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To elucidate electrophysiologic responses of the recurrent laryngeal nerves that were preoperatively paralyzed or invaded by malignancy and to use this information as an added functional parameter for intraoperative management of recurrent laryngeal nerves with malignant invasion.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Settings

Academic, tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

All consecutive neck surgeries with nerve monitoring performed by senior author (GWR) between December 1995 and January 2007 were reviewed after obtaining Institutional Review Board approval from Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Human Subjects Committee and the Partners Human Research Committee. Electrophysiologic parameters in all cases with preoperative vocal cord paralysis/paresis, and the recurrent laryngeal nerve invasion by cancer, were studied.

Results

Of the 1138 surgeries performed, 25 patients (2.1%) had preoperative vocal cord dysfunction. In patients with preoperative vocal cord dysfunction, recognizable recurrent laryngeal nerve electrophysiologic activity was preserved in over 50% of cases. Malignant invasion of the recurrent laryngeal nerve was found in 22 patients (1.9%). Neural invasion of the recurrent laryngeal nerve was associated with preoperative vocal cord paralysis in only 50% of these patients. In nerves invaded by malignancy, 60% maintained recognizable electrophysiologic activity, which was more commonly present and robust when vocal cord function was preserved.

Conclusion

Knowledge of electrophysiologic intraoperative neural monitoring provides additional functional information and, along with preoperative vocal cord function information, aids in constructing decision algorithms regarding intraoperative management of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, in prognosticating postoperative outcomes, and in patient counseling regarding postoperative expectations.
Pronoun Use Reflects Standings in Social Hierarchies
Authors: Kacewicz Ewa , Pennebaker James W. , Davis Matthew , Jeon Moongee , Graesser Arthur C.
Published: September 2013

Five studies explored the ways relative rank is revealed among individuals in small groups through their natural use of pronouns. In Experiment 1, four-person groups worked on a decision-making task with randomly assigned leadership status. In Studies 2 and 3, two-person groups either worked on a task or chatted informally in a get-to-know-you session. Study 4 was a naturalistic study of incoming and outgoing e-mail of 9 participants who provided information on their correspondents’ relative status. The last study examined 40 letters written by soldiers in the regime of Saddam Hussein. Computerized text analyses across the five studies found that people with higher status consistently used fewer first-person singular, and more first-person plural and second-person singular pronouns. Natural language use during group interaction suggests that status is associated with attentional biases, such that higher rank is linked with other-focus whereas lower rank is linked with self-focus.