bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Evaluations of Functionally Graded RC Slabs
Authors: Mastali M. , Mastali M. , Abdollahnejad Z. , Ghasemi Naghibdehi M. , Sharbatdar M. K.
Published: September 2014

Nowadays, using fibrous materials is used widely in strengthening applications such as cross-section enlargement and using functionally graded reinforced concrete. Functionally graded reinforced concrete is used as multireinforced concrete layers that can be reinforced by different fiber types. The objective of this research was to address the structural benefits of functionally graded concrete materials by performing analytical simulations. In order to achieve this purpose, in the first stage of this study, three functionally graded reinforced concretes by steel and polypropylene (PP) were experimentally tested under flexural loading. Inverse analysis was applied to obtain the used material properties of reinforced concrete by FEMIX software. After obtaining the material properties, to assess the performance of proposed slabs, some other cases were proposed and numerically evaluated under flexural and shear loading. The results showed that increasing steel fiber in reinforced entire cross section led to achieve better shear and flexural performance while the best performance of reinforced functionally graded slabs was achieved for slab at 1% fiber content. In the second stage, nineteen reinforced functionally graded RC slabs with steel bars were simulated and assessed and some other cases were considered which were not experimentally tested.
Adaptive Media Streaming to Mobile Devices: Challenges, Enhancements, and Recommendations
Authors: Evensen Kristian , Kupka Tomas , Riiser Haakon , Ni Pengpeng , Eg Ragnhild , Griwodz Carsten , Halvorsen Pål
Published: September 2014

Video streaming is predicted to become the dominating traffic in mobile broadband networks. At the same time, adaptive HTTP streaming is developing into the preferred way of streaming media over the Internet. In this paper, we evaluate how different components of a streaming system can be optimized when serving content to mobile devices in particular. We first analyze the media traffic from a Norwegian network and media provider. Based on our findings, we outline benefits and challenges for HTTP streaming, on the sender and the receiver side, and we investigate how HTTP-based streaming affects server performance. Furthermore, we discuss various aspects of efficient coding of the video segments from both performance and user perception point of view. The final part of the paper studies efficient adaptation and delivery to mobile devices over wireless networks. We experimentally evaluate and improve adaptation strategies, multilink solutions, and bandwidth prediction techniques. Based on the results from our evaluations, we make recommendations for how an adaptive streaming system should handle mobile devices. Small changes, or simple awareness of how users perceive quality, can often have large effects.
Temporal Bone Fracture Causing Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence
Authors: Peng Kevin A. , Ahmed Sameer , Yang Isaac , Gopen Quinton
Published: September 2014

Importance. Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) is a third window lesion of the inner ear causing symptoms of vertigo, autophony, tinnitus, and hearing loss. A “two-hit” hypothesis has traditionally been proposed, whereby thinly developed bone overlying the superior canal is disrupted by a sudden change in intracranial pressure. Although the symptoms of SCD may be precipitated by head injury, no previous reports have described a temporal bone fracture directly causing SCD.Observations. Two patients sustained temporal bone fractures after closed head trauma, and developed unilateral otologic symptoms consistent with SCD. In each instance, computed tomography imaging revealed fractures extending through the bony roof of the superior semicircular canal.Conclusions and Relevance. Temporal bone fractures, which are largely treated nonoperatively, have not previously been reported to cause SCD. As it is a potentially treatable entity, SCD resulting from temporal bone fracture must be recognized as a possibility and diagnosed promptly if present.
Papillary Thyroid Cancer, Macrofollicular Variant: The Follow-Up and Analysis of Prognosis of 5 Patients
Authors: Erol Varlık , Makay Özer , Ertan Yeşim , İçöz Gökhan , Akyıldız Mahir , Yılmaz Mustafa
Published: September 2014

Objective.The main aim of this study was to comparatively analyze the recurrence and prognosis of this rare variant with the literature by analyzing the follow-up data of 5 patients diagnosed with papillary cancer macrofollicular variant.Methods.The demographic data, radiological and pathological data, and prognostic data of 5 patients who underwent surgery for thyroid cancer and were diagnosed with papillary cancer macrofollicular variant pathologically were retrospectively analyzed.Results.The mean age of patients whose mean follow-up period was determined as 7.2 years was 41, and the male/female ratio was 4/1. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy. The pathology report of 2 patients (40%) revealed macrofollicular variant of papillary microcancer, and 3 patients papillary cancer macrofollicular variant. Central dissection was performed in one patient (20%) due to macroscopic pathologic lymph node and 4 metastatic lymph nodes were reported. Also, locoregional recurrence was present in 3 out of 5 patients (60%).Conclusions.Although an impression of earlier and increased risk of recurrence in papillary carcinoma with macrofollicular variant has been documented, more studies with extensive follow-up times and large populations are required.
Myocardial Gene Expression ofT-bet,GATA-3,Ror-γt,FoxP3, and Hallmark Cytokines in Chronic Chagas Disease Cardiomyopathy: An Essentially Unopposed TH1-Type Response
Authors: Nogueira Luciana Gabriel , Santos Ronaldo Honorato Barros , Fiorelli Alfredo Inácio , Mairena Eliane Conti , Benvenuti Luiz Alberto , Bocchi Edimar Alcides , Stolf Noedir Antonio , Kalil Jorge , Cunha-Neto Edecio
Published: September 2014

Background. Chronic Chagas disease cardiomyopathy (CCC), a late consequence ofTrypanosoma cruziinfection, is an inflammatory cardiomyopathy with prognosis worse than those of noninflammatory etiology (NIC). Although the T cell-rich myocarditis is known to play a pathogenetic role, the relative contribution of each of the functional T cell subsets has never been thoroughly investigated. We therefore assessed gene expression of cytokines and transcription factors involved in differentiation and effector function of each functional T cell subset (TH1/TH2/TH17/Treg) in CCC, NIC, and heart donor myocardial samples.Methods and Results. Quantitative PCR showed markedly upregulated expression ofIFN-γand transcription factorT-bet, and minor increases ofGATA-3;FoxP3andCTLA-4;IL-17andIL-18in CCC as compared with NIC samples. Conversely, cytokines expressed byTH2 cells (IL-4,IL-5, andIL-13) or associated with Treg (TGF-βandIL-10) were not upregulated in CCC myocardium. Expression ofTH1-related genes such asT-bet,IFN-γ, andIL-18correlated with ventricular dilation,FoxP3, andCTLA-4.Conclusions. Results are consistent with a strong localTH1-mediated response in most samples, possibly associated with pathological myocardial remodeling, and a proportionally smaller FoxP3+CTLA4+Treg cell population, which is unable to completely curb IFN-γproduction in CCC myocardium, therefore fueling inflammation.
Prevalence of Coccidiosis in Broiler Chicken Farms in Western Iran
Authors: Gharekhani Jamal , Sadeghi-Dehkordi Zivar , Bahrami Mohammadali
Published: September 2014

The main goal of current study was to investigate the prevalence of coccidiosis in broiler farms in Hamedan province, western Iran. Chicks and fecal samples were collected in all of the 220 broiler farms in this region. All viscera were examined for gross pathological changes. The mucosa of small intestine and the caeca were examined for the presence and identification of parasitic forms using parasitology methods. The overall rate of coccidiosis was 31.8%; E. acervulina (75.7%), E. tenella (54.3%), E. necatrix (28.6%), and E. maxima (20%) were determined. Mixed infections were observed in all of the positive farms. There was a statistical significant difference (P<0.05) among infection rate and age groups, dysentery, history of colibacilosis and clostridiosis in farm, and history of coccidiostats consumption, unlike to breed (P>0.05). This is the first report of coccidiosis rate in broiler farms in this region. Further additional researches and design control strategies for improving management in farms are necessary.
High Dose Radiotherapy to Automated Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ahmed Inaya , Zou Wei , Jabbour Salma K.
Published: September 2014

We report a case of successful full-dose chemoradiotherapy to stage IIIB nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in a 59-year-old man with extensive cardiac history and an automated implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD) located within the radiotherapeutic field. In this case, the AICD was a St. Jude Medical Fortify Assura VR 1257-40Q ICD, and it was implanted prophylactically during bypass grafting. Although we do not recommend routine radiotherapy dose to exceed recommended current guidelines due to the potential risks to the patient, this is a situation where relocation of the device was not possible. Fortunately, our patient was not AICD-dependent; so following much discussion and deliberation, the decision was made to treat the patient with AICD in place. The patient completed definitive chemoradiotherapy with concurrent cisplatin and etoposide and thoracic irradiation to 69.6 Gy. The minimum, maximum, and mean doses to the AICD directly were 13.5 Gy, 52.4 Gy, and 29.3 Gy, respectively. The device withstood full thoracic radiation dose, and the patient denied cardiac symptoms during the time before, during, and after completion of therapy. We sought to offer this case for both teaching and guidance in practice and to contribute to the published literature currently available in this area.
The Alarmin HMGN1 Contributes to Antitumor Immunity and Is a Potent Immunoadjuvant
Authors: Wei Feng , Yang De , Tewary Poonam , Li Yana , Li Sandra , Chen Xin , Howard O.M. Zack , Bustin Michael , Oppenheim Joost J.
Published: September 2014

Alarmins are endogenous mediators that are elicited rapidly in response to danger signals, enhancing innate and adaptive immune responses by promoting the recruitment and maturation of antigen-presenting cells (APC). The nucleosome-binding protein HMGN1 is a potent alarmin that binds TLR4 and induces antigen-specific Th1 immune responses, but its contributions to antitumor immunity have not been explored. We found that ovalbumin (OVA)-expressing EG7 mouse thymoma cells grew much faster in Hmgn1-deficient mice than littermate-matched controls. Tumor-bearing Hmgn1−/− mice generated fewer OVA-specific CD8 cells in the spleen than EG7-bearing Hmgn1+/+ mice, suggesting that HMGN1 supported T cell–mediated antitumor immunity. In addition, EG7 tumors expressing HMGN1 grew more slowly than control EG7 tumors, suggesting greater resistance to HMGN1-expressing tumors. This resistance relied on T cell–mediated immunity because it was abolished by in vivo depletion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Moreover, mice vaccinated with a DNA vector expressing an HMGN1–gp100 fusion protein manifested gp100-specific, Th1-polarized immune responses, acquiring resistance to challenge with mouse B16F1 melanoma. Overall, our findings show that HMGN1 contributes to antitumor immunity and it may offer an effective adjuvant to heighten responses to cancer vaccines. Cancer Res; 74(21); 5989–98. ©2014 AACR.
Histone H1.3 Suppresses H19 Noncoding RNA Expression and Cell Growth of Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Medrzycki Magdalena , Zhang Yunzhe , Zhang Weijia , Cao Kaixiang , Pan Chenyi , Lailler Nathalie , McDonald John F. , Bouhassira Eric E. , Fan Yuhong
Published: September 2014

Ovarian cancer is a deadly gynecologic malignancy for which novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are imperative for improving survival. Previous studies have suggested the expression pattern of linker histone variants as potential biomarkers for ovarian cancer. To investigate the role of histone H1 in ovarian cancer cells, we characterize individual H1 variants and overexpress one of the major somatic H1 variants, H1.3, in the OVCAR-3 epithelial ovarian cancer cell line. We find that overexpression of H1.3 decreases the growth rate and colony formation of OVCAR-3 cells. We identify histone H1.3 as a specific repressor for the noncoding oncogene H19. Overexpression of H1.3 suppresses H19 expression, and knockdown of H1.3 increases its expression in multiple ovarian epithelial cancer cell lines. Furthermore, we demonstrate that histone H1.3 overexpression leads to increased occupancy of H1.3 at the H19 regulator region encompassing the imprinting control region (ICR), concomitant with increased DNA methylation and reduced occupancy of the insulator protein CTCF at the ICR. Finally, we demonstrate that H1.3 overexpression and H19 knockdown synergistically decrease the growth rate of ovarian cancer cells. Our findings suggest that H1.3 dramatically inhibits H19 expression, which contributes to the suppression of epithelial ovarian carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 74(22); 6463–73. ©2014 AACR.
miR326 Maturation Is Crucial for VEGF-C–Driven Cortactin Expression and Esophageal Cancer Progression
Authors: Hong Chih-Chen , Chen Pai-Sheng , Chiou Jean , Chiu Ching-Feng , Yang Ching-Yao , Hsiao Michael , Chang Yi-Wen , Yu Yang-Hao , Hung Mien-Chie , Hsu Nai-Wen , Shiah Shine-Gwo , Hsu Nan-Yung , Su Jen-Liang
Published: September 2014

Esophageal cancer is an aggressive human malignancy with increasing incidence in the developed world. VEGF-C makes crucial contributions to esophageal cancer progression that are not well understood. Here, we report the discovery of regulatory relationship in esophageal cancers between the expression of VEGF-C and cortactin (CTTN), a regulator of the cortical actin cytoskeleton. Upregulation of CTTN expression by VEGF-C enhanced the invasive properties of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo. Mechanistic investigations showed that VEGF-C increased CTTN expression by downregulating Dicer-mediated maturation of miR326, thereby relieving the suppressive effect of miR326 on CTTN expression. Clinically, expression of Dicer and miR326 correlated with poor prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer. Our findings offer insights into how VEGF-C enhances the robust invasive and metastatic properties of esophageal cancer, which has potential implications for the development of new biomarkers or therapies in this setting. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6280–90. ©2014 AACR.
Neighborhood Factors Associated with Time to Resolution Following an Abnormal Breast or Cervical Cancer Screening Test
Authors: Plascak Jesse J. , Llanos Adana A. , Pennell Michael L. , Weier Rory C. , Paskett Electra D.
Published: September 2014

Background: The effect of neighborhood and healthcare access factors on cancer outcomes among patients enrolled in navigator programs is not clearly understood. This study assessed associations between: (i) neighborhood factors and diagnostic time to resolution (TTR) and (ii) geographic access and TTR following an abnormal breast or cervical cancer screening test among women participating in the Ohio Patient Navigator Research Program (OPNRP).

Methods: Patient (demographic, socioeconomic status, home-to-clinic distance) and neighborhood (deprivation, racial segregation) characteristics of 801 women living in one of 285 census tracts (CT) in greater Columbus, Ohio were examined. Randomization to receive navigation occurred at the clinic level. Multilevel Cox regression and spatial analysis were used to estimate effects of various factors on TTR and assess model assumptions, respectively.

Results: TTR increased as neighborhood deprivation increased. After adjustment for age, friend social support, education, and healthcare status, the TTR among women living in a neighborhood with a moderate median household income (between $36,147 and $53,099) was shorter compared with women living in low median household income neighborhoods (<$36,147; P < 0.05). There is little evidence that unmeasured confounders are geographically patterned.

Conclusions: Increased neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation was associated with longer TTR following an abnormal breast or cervical cancer screening test.

Impact: These results highlight the need for addressing patient- and neighborhood-level factors to reduce cancer disparities among underserved populations. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2819–28. ©2014 AACR.
Novel Selective Estrogen Mimics for the Treatment of Tamoxifen-Resistant Breast Cancer
Authors: Molloy Mary Ellen , White Bethany E. Perez , Gherezghiher Teshome , Michalsen Bradley T. , Xiong Rui , Patel Hitisha , Zhao Huiping , Maximov Philipp Y. , Jordan V. Craig , Thatcher Gregory R.J. , Tonetti Debra A.
Published: September 2014

Endocrine-resistant breast cancer is a major clinical obstacle. The use of 17β-estradiol (E2) has reemerged as a potential treatment option following exhaustive use of tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, although side effects have hindered its clinical usage. Protein kinase C alpha (PKCα) expression was shown to be a predictor of disease outcome for patients receiving endocrine therapy and may predict a positive response to an estrogenic treatment. Here, we have investigated the use of novel benzothiophene selective estrogen mimics (SEM) as an alternative to E2 for the treatment of tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer. Following in vitro characterization of SEMs, a panel of clinically relevant PKCα-expressing, tamoxifen-resistant models were used to investigate the antitumor effects of these compounds. SEM treatment resulted in growth inhibition and apoptosis of tamoxifen-resistant cell lines in vitro. In vivo SEM treatment induced tumor regression of tamoxifen-resistant T47D:A18/PKCα and T47D:A18-TAM1 tumor models. T47D:A18/PKCα tumor regression was accompanied by translocation of estrogen receptor (ER) α to extranuclear sites, possibly defining a mechanism through which these SEMs initiate tumor regression. SEM treatment did not stimulate growth of E2-dependent T47D:A18/neo tumors. In addition, unlike E2 or tamoxifen, treatment with SEMs did not stimulate uterine weight gain. These findings suggest the further development of SEMs as a feasible therapeutic strategy for the treatment of endocrine-resistant breast cancer without the side effects associated with E2. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(11); 2515–26. ©2014 AACR.
The Challenging Aspects of Managing Adolescents and Young Adults with Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: Jachimowicz Ron D. , Engert Andreas
Published: September 2014

Cancer in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) is the second leading cause of nonaccidental death with hematological malignancies spiking during this period. Treatment of AYAs with hematological malignancies usually follows either pediatric or adult protocols with sufficient information lacking on subgroup analyses regarding course and outcome. In this review we will outline up-to-date treatment possibilities for AYAs diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Early and late toxicities will be addressed and future directions of research suggested.
Thalassemia Major and Sickle Cell Disease in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Yacobovich Joanne , Tamary Hannah
Published: September 2014

The increased longevity of patients with thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) introduces new clinical challenges due to the accumulation of disease-related morbidity, psychosocial issues and health care adjustments. Patients with thalassemia major now live into adulthood without suffering heart failure but must confront delayed puberty, impaired fertility and progressive bone disease. The increased survival in SCD brings to the front previously unrecognized complications including pulmonary hypertension, silent cerebral infarcts and also reproductive dysfunction. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) have age-related psychosocial needs in their transition from the pediatric health care environment to the adult system. In this review we present the uniquely age-related medical issues facing the AYA thalassemia and SCD cohort in their transition into adulthood.
Challenges for Cancer Care Delivery to Adolescents and Young Adults: Present and Future
Authors: Meeneghan Mathew R. , Wood William A.
Published: September 2014

Adolescents and young adults occupy a unique place within the cancer community due to the challenges they face related to disease biology, access to care, and psychosocial and socioeconomic circumstances. Efforts to define specific needs and targets for intervention in these areas are under way and evolving. This review will discuss the current and future challenges in delivering quality care to this population.
The Value of Anti-Desmoglein Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay in the Immunological Follow-Up of Pemphigus
Authors: Bellon Nathalia , André Chantal , Sbidian Emilie , Ortonne Nicolas , Wolkenstein Pierre , Chosidow Olivier , Ingen-Housz-Oro Saskia
Published: September 2014

Background: The value of anti-desmoglein 1 and 3 (Dsg1, Dsg3) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is controversial in the follow-up of pemphigus. Objective: To evaluate anti-desmoglein ELISA (Dsg ELISA) in the follow-up of pemphigus and compare ELISA with direct and indirect immunofluorescence in complete remission (CR). Methods: We performed a retrospective monocenter study of patients with pemphigus and consecutive sera samples collected at baseline (M0), 12 months (M12) and 24 or 36 months after M0 (M24/36). Tests were compared in CR and in active disease. Direct immunofluorescence and circulating autoantibodies were compared for patients with stable CR. Results: We included 36 patients. At M12, ELISA values did not differ between CR and active disease. At M24/36, Dsg3 but not Dsg1 ELISA values were lower in CR (p = 0.07). For 5/8 patients with stable CR, direct immunofluorescence and ELISA findings remained positive. Conclusion: In routine practice, Dsg ELISA seems to be of little interest for immunological follow-up of pemphigus.
Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Stein Eytan M. , Tallman Martin S.
Published: September 2014

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a rare subtype of AML characterized by a reciprocal balanced translocation between chromosomes 15 and 17 that fuses the PML gene with the RARα gene and leads to the leukemic phenotype. Although best described in large clinical trials of adults, APL, like other forms of AML, also occurs in children. The positive outcome of children with APL mirrors the dramatic increase in survival seen in adults since the introduction of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). In this paper, we review the diagnosis of APL in children as well as large, retrospective, clinical trial data collected on pediatric APL. We also raise management issues and toxicities that are unique to children.
Predictors of Hospital Admission Two Months after Emergency Department Evaluation of COPD Exacerbation
Authors: Quintana José M. , Esteban Cristóbal , Garcia-Gutierrez Susana , Aguirre Urko , Gonzalez Nerea , Lafuente Iratxe , Bare Marisa , Fernandez de Larrea Nerea , Rivas-Ruiz Francisco ,   for the IRYSS-COPD Group
Published: September 2014

Background: Limited information is available regarding the factors related to short-term hospital admission following an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (eCOPD). Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify variables related to short-term admission in patients with an eCOPD. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of patients with an eCOPD who attended an emergency department (ED) at 1 of 16 hospitals. Information on possible predictor variables was recorded during the ED stay, 24 h after admission to the hospital or after ED discharge home, and at hospital discharge or 1 week later if discharged home from the ED. An admission after an eCOPD within 2 months was the outcome of interest. Multivariate models were employed for patients admitted to the hospital or discharged home from the ED. Results: For patients discharged home from the ED, eCOPD-related hospital admissions in the previous year [odds ratio (OR) 1.98 and 2.33], pCO2 at ED admission (ORs 2.02 and 2.90), the number of ED visits within 1 week of the index ED visit (OR 5.14) and dyspnea level 1 week after the index ED visit (ORs 2.66 and 1.40) were predictors of short-term admission [area under the curve (AUC) 0.82]. For patients admitted to the hospital during the index ED visit, baseline FEV1% (ORs 1.32 and 1.88), eCOPD-related hospital admissions in the previous year (ORs 1.28 and 2.51), severe baseline dyspnea (OR 2.57) and dyspnea level 1 week after the index ED visit (ORs 2.15 and 1.74) were predictors of short-term readmission (AUC 0.73). Conclusions: Just a few easily recorded parameters may allow clinicians to identify patients at a higher risk of short-term readmission and establish preventive strategies.
De novo Structure Variations of the Y Chromosome in a 47,XXY Female with Ovarian Failure: A Case Report
Authors: Lin Bin , Tan Fengqin , Xu Heng , Wang Ping , Tang Quan , Zhu Yufei , Kong Xiangyin , Hu Landian
Published: September 2014

We report on a patient with a 47,XXY karyotype who presents a normal female phenotype, which is an extremely rare observation worldwide. The patient is infertile. Type B ultrasound scans and other tests suggested that her ovaries had completely failed. Microsatellite DNA marker analysis revealed that the 2 X chromosomes were derived from her mother and that this abnormality was caused by non-disjunction of the maternal X chromosomes during meiosis II. Copy number variation analysis identified 2 large de novo deletions in her Y chromosome. Remarkably, one of the deleted regions includes the SRY gene locus, which might explain her female phenotype. However, the genetic mechanism of her ovarian failure remains unclear. This paper is the first report of a 47,XXY female with ovarian failure.
Homomorphic Sex Chromosomes and the Intriguing Y Chromosome of Ctenomys Rodent Species (Rodentia, Ctenomyidae)
Authors: Suárez-Villota Elkin Y. , Pansonato-Alves José C. , Foresti Fausto , Gallardo Milton H.
Published: September 2014

Unlike the X chromosome, the mammalian Y chromosome undergoes evolutionary decay resulting in small size. This sex chromosomal heteromorphism, observed in most species of the fossorial rodent Ctenomys, contrasts with the medium-sized, homomorphic acrocentric sex chromosomes of closely related C. maulinus and C. sp. To characterize the sequence composition of these chromosomes, fluorescent banding, self-genomic in situ hybridization, and fluorescent in situ hybridization with an X painting probe were performed on mitotic and meiotic plates. High molecular homology between the sex chromosomes was detected on mitotic material as well as on meiotic plates immunodetected with anti-SYCP3 and anti-γH2AX. The Y chromosome is euchromatic, poor in repetitive sequences and differs from the X by the loss of a block of pericentromeric chromatin. Inferred from the G-banding pattern, an inversion and the concomitant prevention of recombination in a large asynaptic region seems to be crucial for meiotic X chromosome inactivation. These peculiar findings together with the homomorphism of Ctenomys sex chromosomes are discussed in the light of the regular purge that counteracts Muller's ratchet and the probable mechanisms accounting for their origin and molecular homology.
Associations Between Anticoagulation Therapy and Risks of Mortality and Readmission Among Patients With Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Hernandez Adrian F. , Liang Li , Fonarow Gregg C. , Hammill Bradley G. , Hammill Stephen C. , Heidenreich Paul A. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Qualls Laura G. , Al-Khatib Sana M. , Piccini Jonathan P. , Curtis Lesley H.
Published: September 2014

Background—

Patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation are at higher risk of thromboembolic events than patients with heart failure alone. Yet, the use of anticoagulation therapy varies in clinical practice, especially among older patients, for whom its effectiveness is poorly understood.

Methods and Results—

Using clinical registry data linked to Medicare claims from 2005 to 2011, we examined outcomes of older patients hospitalized with heart failure and atrial fibrillation who newly initiated anticoagulation therapy at discharge. We used Cox proportional hazards models and inverse probability-weighted treatment estimates to adjust for selection bias. Main outcomes were mortality and readmission at 1 and 3 years. Among 5105 patients in 195 hospitals, 1623 (31.8%) started anticoagulation therapy at discharge. Treated patients had lower unadjusted rates of all-cause mortality (26.4% versus 42.8%;
P
<0.001) and all-cause readmission (58.4% versus 63.7%;
P
<0.001) at 1 year. After inverse weighting for the probability of treatment and adjustment for other discharge medications, anticoagulation therapy was associated with significantly lower 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 0.70; 99% confidence interval, 0.59–0.82), but there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of all-cause readmission (hazard ratio, 0.89; 99% confidence interval, 0.78–1.01) or other readmission outcomes. Results were similar at 3 years.

Conclusions—

Initiation of anticoagulation therapy at hospital discharge was associated with improved mortality at 1 and 3 years but was not associated with improved cardiovascular readmission among older patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
Association Between Success Rate and Citation Count of Studies of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Perino Alexander C. , Hoang Donald D. , Holmes Tyson H. , Santangeli Pasquale , Heidenreich Paul A. , Perez Marco V. , Wang Paul J. , Turakhia Mintu P.
Published: September 2014

Background—

The preferential citation of studies with the highest success rates could exaggerate perceived effectiveness, particularly for treatments with widely varying published success rates such as radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Methods and Results—

We systematically identified observational studies and clinical trials of radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation between 1990 and 2012. Generalized Poisson regression was used to estimate association between study success rate and total citation count, adjusting for sample size, journal impact factor, time since publication, study design, and whether first or last author was a consensus-defined pre-eminent expert. We identified 174 articles meeting our inclusion criteria (36 289 subjects). After adjustment only for time since publication, a 10-point increase above the mean in pooled reported success rates was associated with a 17.8% increase in citation count at 5 years postpublication (95% confidence interval, 7.1–28.4%;
P
<0.001). After additional adjustment for impact factor, sample size, randomized trial design, and pre-eminent expert authorship, the association remained significant (18.6% increase in citation count; 95% confidence interval, 7.6–29.6%;
P
<0.0001). In this full model, time since publication, impact factor, and pre-eminent expert authorship were significant covariates, whereas randomized control trial design and study sample size were not.

Conclusions—

Among studies of radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, high success rate was independently associated with citation count, which may indicate citation bias. To readers of the literature, radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation could be perceived to be more effective than the data supports. These findings may have implications for a wide variety of novel cardiovascular therapies.
β-Adrenergic Receptor–Mediated Cardiac Contractility Is Inhibited via Vasopressin Type 1A-Receptor–Dependent Signaling
Authors: Tilley Douglas G. , Zhu Weizhong , Myers Valerie D. , Barr Larry A. , Gao Erhe , Li Xue , Song Jianliang , Carter Rhonda L. , Makarewich Catherine A. , Yu Daohai , Troupes Constantine D. , Grisanti Laurel A. , Coleman Ryan C. , Koch Walter J. , Houser Steven R. , Cheung Joseph Y. , Feldman Arthur M.
Published: September 2014

Background—

Enhanced arginine vasopressin levels are associated with increased mortality during end-stage human heart failure, and cardiac arginine vasopressin type 1A receptor (V1AR) expression becomes increased. Additionally, mice with cardiac-restricted V1AR overexpression develop cardiomyopathy and decreased β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) responsiveness. This led us to hypothesize that V1AR signaling regulates βAR responsiveness and in doing so contributes to development of heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Transaortic constriction resulted in decreased cardiac function and βAR density and increased cardiac V1AR expression, effects reversed by a V1AR-selective antagonist. Molecularly, V1AR stimulation led to decreased βAR ligand affinity, as well as βAR-induced Ca
2+
mobilization and cAMP generation in isolated adult cardiomyocytes, effects recapitulated via ex vivo Langendorff analysis. V1AR-mediated regulation of βAR responsiveness was demonstrated to occur in a previously unrecognized Gq protein–independent/G protein receptor kinase–dependent manner.

Conclusions—

This newly discovered relationship between cardiac V1AR and βAR may be informative for the treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure and elevated arginine vasopressin.
Novelties in Meriania (Melastomataceae: Merianieae) from Andean rainforests of Colombia
Authors: Mendoza-Cifuentes Humberto , Alvear Marcela , Almeda Frank
Published: September 2014

Two new species of Meriania (Melastomataceae: Merianieae) are described from the Andean region of Colombia (Northern Andes) in the departments of Caldas, Cauca and Putumayo. Meriania barbosae, known only from one locality in Selva de Florencia National Park, is characterized by its calyptrate flowers, calyptras with obtuse apex, dimorphic stamens and presence of a glandular pubescence on the vegetative organs. Meriania fantastica, from the departments of Cauca and Putumayo, is characterized by its few flowered inflorescences (up to 12 flowers), large flowers (ca. 15 cm in diameter) with bright orange petals and the presence of a scutum at the petiole apex. Both species are Colombian endemics and are only known from a few specimens. Each species is illustrated, compared with presumed relatives, and provided with a conservation assessment using IUCN guidelines.
Miscellaneous typifications of selected species occurring in Calabria (S Italy)
Authors: Peruzzi Lorenzo
Published: September 2014

During my Ph.D. thesis (Peruzzi 2004), I had the opportunity to look for nomenclatural types of several taxa occurring in Calabria (S. Italy) as either endemic or relict taxa. In this short note, I formally propose lectotypes for those species which, to my best knowledge, remain untypified.
Paepalanthus conjunctus, a new species of Paepalanthus sect. Diphyomene (Eriocaulaceae) from Central Brazil
Authors: Trovó Marcelo , Sano Paulo Takeo
Published: September 2014

We describe and illustrate Paepalanthus conjunctus, a new species of Paepalanthus sect. Diphyomene restricted to open humid fields in the vicinity of Brasília (DF). It can be distinguished from other species by its cespitose habit forming clumps of a few individuals, linear leaves, short reproductive axis, hairy scapes, and short corolla tubes. As the species is known from a single population growing in an area undergoing intense anthropic activity, it is considered endangered. A detailed description and illustrations, as well as comments on distribution, morphological variation, and affinities are provided.
Additions to the reported Elimaea species (Orthoptera: Phaneropteridae:
Phaneropterinae) from India
Authors: NAGAR RAJENDRA , MAL JHABAR , SWAMINATHAN R.
Published: September 2014

The genus Elimaea (Tettigoniidae: Phaneropterinae) has reportedly been represented in India by eight species. Four species in addition to the existing checklist are described, which were earlier reported from the Malay Peninsula, based on the teeth on stridulatory file (on the underside of male left tegmen) and modifications of the gonangulum of the ovipositor. The morphometric variations in the reported species have been given, which include E. securigera, E. subcarinata, E. thaii, E. chloris, E. nautica and E. subcarinata sp. nov. (that differs from E. subcarinata).
A new microhylid frog, genus Rhombophryne, from northeastern Madagascar, and a re-description of R. serratopalpebrosa using micro-computed tomography
Authors: SCHERZ MARK D. , RUTHENSTEINER BERNHARD , VENCES MIGUEL , GLAW FRANK
Published: September 2014

The rainforests of the Marojejy massif in northern Madagascar are a well-known hotspot of amphibian species diversity and endemism. In the present paper, we re-describe Rhombophryne serratopalpebrosa (Guibé 1975), a cophyline microhylid frog from high altitude on this massif, based on a re-examination of its holotype, and describe Rhombophryne vaventy sp. nov. using characters of external morphology and osteology, illustrated by pdf-embedded comparative 3D models of their skeletons. Rhombophryne serratopalpebrosa differs from R. vaventy sp. nov. by smaller size (28 mm snout-vent length vs. 52.9 mm), skin texture (granular vs. rough and tubercular skin respectively), supratympanic fold shape (strong, long and straight reaching the eye vs. curved and not extending anteriorly beyond the tympanum), relative tympanum diameter (78% vs. 41% of eye diameter), shape of the postchoanal prevomerine palate, shape of the footplate of the columella, length of prepollex, and by other subtle osteological features. Morphological comparisons suggest that a specimen from Ambolokopatrika assigned to R. serratopalpebrosa in previous genetic studies might belong to yet another undescribed species, closely related to R. vaventy sp. nov., whereas DNA sequences of the topotypic R. serratopalpebrosa remain unknown. We therefore emphasise the need for collecting additional material from high altitudes of the Marojejy massif to understand the systematics, as well as the natural history, of this poorly known species. For the new species described herein, we propose a Red List threat status of Vulnerable, in line with other Marojejy endemics from a similar altitude.
Moina hemanti sp. nov., a new species of the genus Moina s.l. (Branchiopoda: Anomopoda) from Pune, India
Authors: PADHYE SAMEER M , DUMONT HENRI J
Published: September 2014

We describe and figure Moina hemanti sp. nov. from ephemeral pools on the campus of Pune University, India. Although the pools flood during the monsoon, the moinid only appears irregularly and for a short period of time. In morphology, it is extremely close to Moina dumonti from Mexico and Cuba. This geographic gap remains unexplained for the time being, although more similar cases among cladocerans are on record. Molecular analysis has suggested that M. hemanti is relatively close to Moinodaphnia, and might form a genus in its own right, presumably together with M. dumonti. The latter, however, remains to be analyzed. Further candidates for this clade are Moina oryzae and M. rostrata, if the presence of an ocellus and/or a rostrum can be shown to be apomorphies.
The type of the land crab Cardisoma hirtipes Dana, 1851 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Gecarcinidae)
Authors: NG PETER K. L. , CLARK PAUL F.
Published: September 2014

In describing a new species of land crab, Discoplax celeste, from Christmas Island, eastern Indian Ocean, Ng & Davie (2012: 95) selected a neotype for the related Discoplax hirtipes (Dana, 1851), originally described from Fiji as a species of Cardisoma Latreille, 1828. They commented that the type material was no longer extant and a neotype was necessary to stabilise the taxonomy of the species and its allies. The neotype they selected was a recently collected male specimen (64.2 × 53.0 mm, Zoological Reference Collection of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research (now the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum), National University of Singapore, ZRC 2010.0415) from Fiji, with colour information as well as fresh tissues that could be used for genetic studies. Evans (1967: 410), however, had listed a syntype specimen of Cardisoma hirtipes in The Natural History Museum (NHM) (then the British Museum (Natural History), London)with the catalogue number 1861.44. The neotype selection of Ng & Davie (2012) thus appears to be unwarranted. Türkay (1974: 233), in revising the family, also listed among his material examined the following: “Südsee, Viti (1 Go/1 des Holotypus von Cardisoma hirtipes DANA 1851)”. No other data was provided, consequently it was unclear whether any specimen or only the gonopod was actually examined and where it was deposited. There was no other mention of this material in the text.
The need for an electronic multilingual dictionary
Authors: Kisiel Anna , Satoła-Staśkowiak Joanna , Sosnowski Wojciech
Published: September 2014

The need for an electronic multilingual dictionaryThe paper analyses the issue of providing adequate equivalents in multilingual dictionaries. If equivalents are adequate, it means that: (1) the scope of meaning of one item is identical to its equivalent (cf. drive: drive a nail vs. drive a car); and (2) the collocations of the equivalents overlap. Two significant problems arise when searching for adequate equivalents: the lack of equivalents whose meanings are identical (narrower/wider meanings, partial overlap of meanings, more than equally good equivalent), and equivalents with homographs in a given language. Because such issues are difficult to resolve in a printed dictionary, we put forward some methods of addressing the problems in an electronic dictionary. The paper offers an example entry from such a dictionary, which presents a suggestion of a layout. We also took into consideration the potential problems which may appear if the entry is presented in this manner: first, one must set a limit for the description (a defined number of lexical units); second, one must avoid circularity, but at the same time also strive for an exhaustive description. Electronic dictionaries offer greater possibilities of presenting modern vocabulary and adding new classifiers (e.g. a classifier of politeness).
Semantics, contrastive linguistics and parallel corpora
Authors: Koseska Violetta
Published: September 2014

Semantics, contrastive linguistics and parallel corporaIn view of the ambiguity of the term “semantics”, the author shows the differences between the traditional lexical semantics and the contemporary semantics in the light of various semantic schools. She examines semantics differently in connection with contrastive studies where the description must necessary go from the meaning towards the linguistic form, whereas in traditional contrastive studies the description proceeded from the form towards the meaning. This requirement regarding theoretical contrastive studies necessitates construction of a semantic interlanguage, rather than only singling out universal semantic categories expressed with various language means. Such studies can be strongly supported by parallel corpora. However, in order to make them useful for linguists in manual and computer translations, as well as in the development of dictionaries, including online ones, we need not only formal, often automatic, annotation of texts, but also semantic annotation - which is unfortunately manual. In the article we focus on semantic annotation concerning time, aspect and quantification of names and predicates in the whole semantic structure of the sentence on the example of the “Polish-Bulgarian-Russian parallel corpus”.
La catégorisation linguistique des couleurs: niveaux d'élémentarité des noms de couleurs français
Authors: Golka Maria H.
Published: September 2014

Linguistic categorisation of colours: relative basicness of French colour termsCategorisation is one of the basic cognitive processes. Because of the continuous character of the colour spectrum, colour terms constitute an interesting material to study linguistic categorisation. The first part of this article offers a review of research on the linguistic categorisation of colours, especially on basic colour terms and prototypes. In the second part, the results of an empirical study on the basicness of French colour terms will be presented. The results suggest that colour terms are categorised as prototypically structured concepts, which supports the hypothesis of the relative basicness of colour terms.
Laryngeal Reconstruction with a Sternohyoid Muscle Flap after Supracricoid Laryngectomy: Postoperative Respiratory and Swallowing Evaluation
Authors: Yu Yue , Wang Xiao‐lei , Xu Zhen‐gang , Wu Yue‐huang
Published: September 2014

Objective

To compare postoperative respiratory and swallowing functions between patients who underwent classic supracricoid laryngectomy (SCL) and those who underwent SCL with laryngeal reconstruction using the sternohyoid muscle.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

National cancer center.

Subjects and Methods

Forty‐four patients who consecutively underwent SCL for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma from December 2009 to March 2011 were included. Postoperative parameters including the mean tracheostomy decannulation time, tracheostomy decannulation rate at 6 months, mean nasogastric tube (NGT) removal time, degree of dysphagia at 3 months, and survival time after surgery were evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐one patients underwent classic SCL (group A), and 23 underwent SCL with laryngeal reconstruction (group B). After a median follow‐up period of 37 months (range, 3‐44 months), group A had a significantly longer mean decannulation time (120.05 ± 109.38 days vs 33.43 ± 22.60 days, respectively; P <. 01) and NGT removal time (37.30 ± 29.97 days vs 17.22 ± 10.95 days, respectively; P <. 01) than group B. Swallowing function after 6 months was significantly better in group B than in group A (P =. 004). The decannulation rate after 6 months was significantly higher in group B than in group A (95.7% vs 66.7%, respectively; P =. 036). The 3‐year disease‐free survival rate was not significantly different between group A and group B (95.2% vs 95.7%, respectively; P =. 961).

Conclusion

Laryngeal reconstruction using a sternohyoid muscle flap seems to improve quality of life in the early postoperative period after SCL.
Diagnosis and Laryngeal Complications of Bordatella pertussis Infection in the Ambulatory Adult Population
Authors: Leschke Thomas M. , Blumin Joel H. , Bock Jonathan M.
Published: September 2014

Bordatella pertussis infection leads to a chronic, debilitating, and paroxysmal cough that can last for months to years. Incidence of B pertussis in the immunized adult population is rising nationwide, but many otolaryngologists are unfamiliar with the diagnosis and management of this disease. Adults often present late in the disease process when traditional diagnostic testing is ineffective and without the classic pediatric symptoms of whooping cough. As a result, B pertussis infections in adults are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as asthma exacerbations or viral bronchitis, leading to increased morbidity, unnecessary testing, and additional exposure of vulnerable populations to the pathogen. This commentary describes 3 adult cases of B pertussis confirmed with serum testing in the ambulatory population and describes varied presentations based on time from initial infection. Specific emphasis is presented on the physical manifestations of the disease in laryngeal structures, methods of diagnosis, and recommendations for treatment.