bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel, Non‐Radioactive, Simple and Multiplex PCR‐cRFLP Methods for Genotyping Human SP‐A and SP‐D Marker Alleles
Authors: DiAngelo Susan , Lin Zhenwu , Wang Guirong , Phillips Scott , Ramet Mika , Luo Junming , Floros Joanna
Published: March 2014

We have previously identified an allele of the human SP‐A2 gene that occurs with greater frequency in an RDS population [12]. Because of the importance of SP‐A in normal lung function and its newly emerging role in innate host defense and regu‐lation of inflammatory processes, we wish to better characterize genotypes of both SP‐A1 and SP‐A2 genes. It has been determined that SP‐D shares similar roles in immune response. Therefore, in this report we 1) describe a novel, non radioactive PCR based‐cRFLP method for genotyping both SP‐A and SP‐D; 2) describe two previously unpublished biallelic polymorphisms within the SP‐D gene; 3) present the partial sequence of one new SP‐A1 allele (6A14) and describe other new SP‐A1 and SP‐A2 alleles; and 4) describe additional methodologies for SP‐A genotype assessment. The ability to more accurately and efficiently genotype samples from individuals with various pulmonary diseases will facilitate population and family based association studies. Genetic poly‐morphisms may be identified that partially explain individual disease susceptibility and/or treatment effectiveness.
Global Stability for a Predator-Prey Model with Dispersal among Patches
Authors: Gao Yang , Liu Shengqiang
Published: March 2014

We investigate a predator-prey model with dispersal for both predator and prey amongnpatches; our main purpose is to extend the global stability criteria by Li and Shuai (2010) on a predator-prey model with dispersal for prey amongnpatches. By using the method of constructing Lyapunov functions based on graph-theoretical approach for coupled systems, we derive sufficient conditions under which the positive coexistence equilibrium of this model is unique and globally asymptotically stable if it exists.
Detection Efficiency of NaI(Tl) Detector in 511–1332 keV Energy Range
Authors: Akkurt I. , Gunoglu K. , Arda S. S.
Published: March 2014

As it is important to obtain accurate analytical result in an experimental research, this required quality control of the experimental system. Gamma spectrometry system can be used in a variety of different fields such as radiation and medical physics. In this paper the absolute efficiency, peak to valley ratio, and energy resolution of a3′′×3′′NaI(Tl) detector were determined experimentally for 511, 662, 835, 1173, 1275, and 1332 keV photon energies obtained from22Na,54Mn,60Co, and137Cs radioactive sources.
Expression of Interleukin-17A in Lung Tissues of Irradiated Mice and the Influence of Dexamethasone
Authors: Wang Li-Ping , Wang Yan-Wen , Wang Bao-Zhong , Sun Gui-Ming , Wang Xiu-Yu , Xu Jun-long
Published: March 2014

Purpose.To investigate the expressions of IL-17A in different phases of radiation-induced lung injury and the effect of dexamethasone.Methods.The thorax of C57BL/6 mice was irradiated with 15 Gy rays. Mice from dexamethasone-treated group were injected intraperitoneally with dexamethasone (0.42 mg/kg/day) every day for the first month after irradiation. IL-17A in lung tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. IL-17A, TGF-β1, and IL-6 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were detected by ELISA. Lung inflammation and collagen deposition were observed by H&E and Masson methods. The degree of alveolitis and fibrosis was judged according to scoring.Results.IL-17A expression was appreciable at 1 week, peaked at 4 weeks, and subsequently declined at 8 weeks after irradiation. IL-17A was reduced after dexamethasone application at all the observation periods. Dexamethasone also inhibited expressions of TGF-β, IL-6, and TNF-αin bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Moreover, dexamethasone attenuated the severity of lung injury by reducing the infiltration of inflammatory cells and collagen deposition. Terms of survival and the time of death in mice of treatment group were postponed and survival rate was improved.Conclusions.IL-17A plays an important role in the process of radiation-induced lung injury. And dexamethasone may provide a protective role in lung injury induced by radiation.
Comparison of 3-Tier Cytological Grading Systems for Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Einstien Dinisha , Omprakash B. O. Parijatham , Ganapathy Hemalatha , Rahman Sadaf
Published: March 2014

Background. Fine-needle aspiration cytology plays a major role in the primary diagnosis of breast carcinoma. Cytological grading of the smears can provide valuable prognostic information and aid in planning the management options. Aim. To evaluate various 3-tier cytological grading systems and to determine the best possible system which is reliable and objective for use in routine practice. Materials & Methods. 72 fine-needle aspiration smears of breast carcinomas were graded by two pathologists and compared with the histologic grading by Nottingham modification of Scarff-Bloom-Richardson method. Concordance and correlation studies were done. Kappa measurement of interobserver agreement was also done. Results. Robinson’s method showed a better correlation (77.7%) and substantial Kappa value of agreement (κ=0.61) with Bloom Richardson’s histological grading method in comparison to the other methods, closely followed by Fisher’s method. Fisher’s method showed better interobserver agreement (84.7%, κ=0.616) compared to the other systems. Conclusions. Robinson’s method of cytological grading in fine-needle aspiration smears of breast carcinoma is simpler, multifactorial, and feasible, hence being preferable for routine use according to our study.
Detection ofLegionellaspp. from Domestic Water in the Prefecture of Arta, Greece
Authors: Dimitriadi Dimitra , Velonakis Emmanuel
Published: March 2014

The aim of this research was the isolation ofLegionellaspp. from domestic water supply networks in the Prefecture of Arta. A total of 100 water samples, from 25 houses, were collected. Half of the samples concerned the cold water and half the hot water supply. Purpose was to detect colonization of the water networks withLegionellaspp. >500 cfu/L by using the method of filtration (ISO 11731). Out of 100 samples, 6 samples from 3 houses were positive forLegionellaspp.Legionella pneumophilaserogroup 2–14 was isolated in 5 of 6 samples, whereas in the sixth sampleLegionella anisawas identified. Only three of the samples had residual chloride over 0.2 mg/L, rate which is necessary for potable water, according to the Greek hygienic practice. Concerning the temperature of hot water, the mean temperature of the negative forLegionellasamples was higher compared to the mean temperature of the positive forLegionellasamples (49.9°C versus 45.5°C). It is estimated that there is risk of infection through the use of showers. The low concentration of chloride and the temperature, which was found within the limits favorable to developingLegionellaspp. (20–45°C), provide fertile ground for proliferation of the bacteria.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation Analysis of a Nutrient-Phytoplankton Model with Delay Effect
Authors: Pan Xinhong , Zhao Min , Dai Chuanjun , Wang Yapei
Published: March 2014

A delay differential system is investigated based on a previously proposed nutrient-phytoplankton model. The time delay is regarded as a bifurcation parameter. Our aim is to determine how the time delay affects the system. First, we study the existence and local stability of two equilibria using the characteristic equation and identify the condition where a Hopf bifurcation can occur. Second, the formulae that determine the direction of the Hopf bifurcation and the stability of periodic solutions are obtained using the normal form and the center manifold theory. Furthermore, our main results are illustrated using numerical simulations.
DCEP: Data Collection Strategy with the Estimated Paths in Ocean Delay Tolerant Network
Authors: Liu Chao , Guo Zhongwen , Hong Feng , Wu Kaishun
Published: March 2014

Data collection is an important procedure of ocean monitoring systems. Due to limited bandwidth and extreme high cost of satellite communication, the majority of data is unable to transmit via satellites. For the moment, there are no efficient data collection methods provided for data collection in underwater sensor networks. After collecting and analyzing GPS data of 40 ships for two months, we find the mobility pattern of ships. On the basis of the mobility pattern, we propose a new data collection strategy for underwater sensor networks through delay tolerant routing. Through simulations and real data analysis, we provide quantitative analysis of the proposed strategy, such as data collection ratio, complexity of the algorithm and energy consumption. Especially, the data collection ratio on real data analysis could reach 95%–100% in acceptable time, which is 30% more than the radio of the strategy that data stored as they come.
The Theory of Dynamic Public Transit Priority with Dynamic Stochastic Park and Ride
Authors: Zhu Chengming , Chen Yanyan , Ma Changxi
Published: March 2014

Public transit priority is very important for relieving traffic congestion. The connotation of dynamic public transit priority and dynamic stochastic park and ride is presented. Based on the point that the travel cost of public transit is not higher than the travel cost of car, how to determine the level of dynamic public transit priority is discussed. The traffic organization method of dynamic public transit priority is introduced. For dynamic stochastic park and ride, layout principle, scale, and charging standard are discussed. Traveler acceptability is high through the analysis of questionnaire survey. Dynamic public transit priority with dynamic stochastic park and ride has application feasibility.
Could Biomarkers of Bone, Cartilage or Synovium Turnover Be Used for Relapse Prediction in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients?
Authors: Dénarié Delphine , Constant Elodie , Thomas Thierry , Marotte Hubert
Published: March 2014

Objective. The aim of this review is to clarify the usefulness of bone, cartilage, and synovial biomarker in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy in remission.Synovial Biomarkers. High MMP-3 levels are associated with joint progression in RA patients, but there is no data about their utility in clinical remission. IIINys and Glc-Gal-PYD seem to be more specific to synovium, but more studies are required.Cartilage Biomarkers. Unbalance between cartilage break-down biomarkers (urinary CTX II and COMP) and cartilage formation biomarker (PIIANP) was described. This unbalance is also associated with joint destruction and prognosis of destruction. No data are available on patients in remission.Bone Biomarkers. RA activity is correlated with an increase of bone resorption markers such as CTX I, PYD, and TRACP 5b and a decrease of bone formation markers such as OC and BALP. RA therapies seem to improve bone turnover in limiting bone resorption. There is no study about bone marker utility in remission.Conclusion. Biomarkers seem to correlate with RA activity and progression. They also could be used to manage RA therapies, but we need more data on RA remission to predict relapse.
An Efficient Nonlinear Filter for Spacecraft Attitude Estimation
Authors: Liu Bing , Chen Zhen , Liu Xiangdong , Yang Fan
Published: March 2014

Increasing the computational efficiency of attitude estimation is a critical problem related to modern spacecraft, especially for those with limited computing resources. In this paper, a computationally efficient nonlinear attitude estimation strategy based on the vector observations is proposed. The Rodrigues parameter is chosen as the local error attitude parameter, to maintain the normalization constraint for the quaternion in the global estimator. The proposed attitude estimator is performed in four stages. First, the local attitude estimation error system is described by a polytopic linear model. Then the local error attitude estimator is designed with constant coefficients based on the robustH2filtering algorithm. Subsequently, the attitude predictions and the local error attitude estimations are calculated by a gyro based model and the local error attitude estimator. Finally, the attitude estimations are updated by the predicted attitude with the local error attitude estimations. Since the local error attitude estimator is with constant coefficients, it does not need to calculate the matrix inversion for the filter gain matrix or update the Jacobian matrixes online to obtain the local error attitude estimations. As a result, the computational complexity of the proposed attitude estimator reduces significantly. Simulation results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed attitude estimation strategy.
Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus Complicating Epstein-Barr Virus Encephalitis in a Child
Authors: Greco Filippo , Cocuzza Maria Donatella , Smilari Pierluigi , Sorge Giovanni , Pavone Lorenzo
Published: March 2014

Children with acute encephalopathy show prolonged electrographic seizure activity consistent with nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE). Pediatric NCSE is a heterogeneous clinical entity with poor outcome and different etiologies, including central nervous system infection, stroke, toxic-metabolic syndrome, and epileptic syndrome. We report a 4-year-old girl with seizure and behavioral changes in whom the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid by polymerase chain reaction was positive for Epstein-Barr virus. We emphasize the importance of electroencephalography (EEG), and particularly, of continuous EEG monitoring for early recognition and appropriate treatment of this condition.
Risk Measure and Early‐Warning System of China′s Stock Market Based on Price‐Earnings Ratio and Price‐to‐Book Ratio
Authors: Chen Rongda , Ye Sheng , Huang Xianchao
Published: March 2014

Based on the actual situation of China′s stock market, this paper proposes a method for measuring the stock market′s risk and early‐warning methods which are based on price‐to‐earnings ratio and price‐to‐book ratio. The study found that the method of VaR can capture the bigger daily drops in a period, and if the drop is at the periodical top of the index, the probability of a sharp index decline will be very high. It also confirmed that the method is feasible and practical for people to use. In the long run, this method really can send early‐warning signals of sharp decline; the warning levels increase as the index rises. The study also found that index will not fall after every warning but will continue going forward because of inertia, particularly during a big trend.
On Properties of ClassA(n)andn-Paranormal Operators
Authors: Li Xiaochun , Gao Fugen
Published: March 2014

Letnbe a positive integer, and an operatorT∈B(ℋ)is called a classA(n)operator ifT1+n2/1+n≥|T|2andn-paranormal operator ifT1+nx1/1+n≥||Tx||for every unit vectorx∈ℋ, which are common generalizations of classAand paranormal, respectively. In this paper, firstly we consider the tensor products for classA(n)operators, giving a necessary and sufficient condition forT⊗Sto be a classA(n)operator whenTandSare both non-zero operators; secondly we consider the properties forn-paranormal operators, showing that an-paranormal contraction is the direct sum of a unitary and aC.0completely non-unitary contraction.
Improved Qrginv Algorithm for Computing Moore-Penrose Inverse Matrices
Authors: Ataei Alireza
Published: March 2014

Katsikis et al. presented a computational method in order to calculate the Moore-Penrose inverse of an arbitrary matrix (including singular and rectangular) (2011). In this paper, an improved version of this method is presented for computing the pseudo inverse of an m×n real matrix A with rank r>0. Numerical experiments show that the resulting pseudoinverse matrix is reasonably accurate and its computation time is significantly less than that obtained by Katsikis et al.
A Note on Best Proximity Point Theorems under WeakP-Property
Authors: Almeida Angel , Karapınar Erdal , Sadarangani Kishin
Published: March 2014

In the very recent paper of Akbar and Gabeleh (2013), by using the notion ofP-property, it was proved that some late results about the existence and uniqueness of best proximity points can be obtained from the versions of associated existing results in the fixed point theory. Along the same line, in this paper, we prove that these results can be obtained under a weaker condition, namely, weakP-property.
Treatment of Sternoclavicular Joint Osteomyelitis with Debridement and Delayed Resection with Muscle Flap Coverage Improves Outcomes
Authors: Muesse Jason L. , Blackmon Shanda H. , Ellsworth Warren A. , Kim Min P.
Published: March 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of various treatment options for sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis. We evaluated patients with a diagnosis of sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis, treated at our hospital from 2002 to 2012. Four treatment options were compared. Three out of twelve patients were successfully cured with antibiotics alone (25%). Debridement with or without negative pressure therapy was successful for one of three patients (33%). Simultaneous debridement, bone resection, and muscle flap coverage of the acquired defect successfully treated one of two patients (50%). Debridement with delayed bone resection and muscle flap coverage was successful in five of five patients (100%). Osteomyelitis of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare disease that has become more prevalent in recent years and can be associated with increasing use of long-term indwelling catheters. Initial debridement with delayed bone resection and pectoralis major muscle flap coverage can effectively treat sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis.
Achromatic Fresnel Lens with Improved Efficiency for PV Systems
Authors: González Montes Mario , Martínez-Antón Juan Carlos , Vázquez Moliní Daniel , Fernandez-Balbuena Antonio Álvarez , Bernabeu E.
Published: March 2014

This work is aimed to design and evaluate different achromatic Fresnel lens solutions capable of operating as concentrators aimed at photovoltaic cells systems. Throughout this study, the theoretical parametric design of the achromatic lens will be shown together with a series of simulations to verify the performance of each lens topology. The results will be compared with a standard Fresnel lens to ascertain the validity and effectiveness of the obtained design. Finally, a novel kind of hybrid lens is proposed, which combines the advantages of each type of lens (standard and Fresnel) according to the optimal operating region of each design. Efficiency and concentration ratios of each particular lens are shown, regarding lens dimension, light’s incidence angle, or wavelength. Through this innovative achromatic design concentration ratios above 1000 suns, which hardly reach standard Fresnel lenses. Furthermore chromatic dispersion is minimized and the efficiency rate is over 85% of efficiency for a wide spectral range (from 350 nm to 1100 nm).
Activation of Toll-Like Receptors and Inflammasome Complexes in the Diabetic Cardiomyopathy-Associated Inflammation
Authors: Fuentes-Antrás J. , Ioan A. M. , Tuñón J. , Egido J. , Lorenzo Ó.
Published: March 2014

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is defined as a ventricular dysfunction initiated by alterations in cardiac energy substrates in the absence of coronary artery disease and hypertension. Hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance are major inducers of the chronic low-grade inflammatory state that characterizes the diabetic heart. Cardiac Toll-like receptors and inflammasome complexes may be key inducers for inflammation probably through NF-κB activation and ROS overproduction. However, metabolic dysregulated factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and sirtuins may serve as therapeutic targets to control this response by mitigating both Toll-like receptors and inflammasome signaling.
Certificateless Public Key Encryption Scheme with Hybrid Problems and Its Application to Internet of Things
Authors: Guo Rui , Wen Qiaoyan , Shi Huixian , Jin Zhengping , Zhang Hua
Published: March 2014

Certificateless cryptography aims at combining the advantages of public key cryptography and identity based cryptography to avoid the certificate management and the key escrow problem. In this paper, we present a novel certificateless public key encryption scheme on the elliptic curve over the ring, whose
security is based on the hardness assumption of Bilinear Diffie‐Hellman problem and factoring the large number as in an RSA protocol. Moreover, since our scheme requires only one pairing operation in decryption, it is significantly more efficient than other related schemes. In addition, based on our encryption system, we
also propose a protocol to protect the confidentiality and integrity of information in the scenario of Internet of Things with constrained resource nodes.
CD44v8-10 Is a Cancer-Specific Marker for Gastric Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Lau Wen Min , Teng Eileen , Chong Hui Shan , Lopez Kirsten Anne Pagaduan , Tay Amy Yuh Ling , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Shabbir Asim , So Jimmy Bok Yan , Chan Shing Leng
Published: March 2014

The surface marker CD44 has been identified as one of several markers associated with cancer stem cells (CSC) in solid tumors, but its ubiquitous expression in many cell types, including hematopoietic cells, has hindered its use in targeting CSCs. In this study, 28 paired primary tumor and adjacent nontumor gastric tissue samples were analyzed for cell surface protein expression. Cells that expressed pan-CD44 were found to occur at significantly higher frequency in gastric tumor tissues. We identified CD44v8-10 as the predominant CD44 variant expressed in gastric cancer cells and verified its role as a gastric CSC marker by limiting dilution and serial transplantation assays. Parallel experiments using CD133 failed to enrich for gastric CSCs. Analyses of another 26 primary samples showed significant CD44v8-10 upregulation in gastric tumor sites. Exogenous expression of CD44v8-10 but not CD44 standard (CD44s) increased the frequency of tumor initiation in immunocompromised mice. Reciprocal silencing of total CD44 resulted in reduced tumor-initiating potential of gastric cancer cells that could be rescued by CD44v8-10 but not CD44s expression. Our findings provide important functional evidence that CD44v8-10 marks human gastric CSCs and contributes to tumor initiation, possibly through enhancing oxidative stress defense. In addition, we showed that CD44v8-10 expression is low in normal tissues. Because CD44 also marks CSCs of numerous human cancers, many of which may also overexpress CD44v8-10, CD44v8-10 may provide an avenue to target CSCs in other human cancers. Cancer Res; 74(9); 2630–41. ©2014 AACR.
The Role of Mechanical Bowel Preparation before Ileal Urinary Diversion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deng Shi , Dong Qiang , Wang Jia , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2014

Background: Although the use of mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) is still widely promoted as the dogma before patients undergo ileal urinary diversion, an increasing number of clinical trials have suggested that there is no benefit. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of MBP in ileal urinary diversion surgery. Methods: A literature search was performed in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index Expanded as well as the Cochrane Library and the Cochrane Clinical Trials Registry, from 1966 to January 1, 2013. Clinical trials comparing outcomes of MBP versus no MBP for ileal urinary diversion surgery were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the fixed- or random-effects models. Results: In total, two randomized controlled trials and five cohort studies were included in this meta-analysis. The primary outcomes, such as bowel leak and bowel obstruction, showed no statistical difference between the two groups. Additionally, the overall mortality rate and death rate related to operation also manifested that MBP does not offer an advantage over the no MBP. Conclusion: This meta-analysis suggests that MBP does not reduce the incidence of perioperative complications in urinary diversion compared with no MBP. However, large randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm this finding.
Management of Men with a Suspicion of Prostate Cancer after Negative Initial Prostate Biopsy Results
Authors: Yamamoto Sachi , Kato Mayuko , Tomiyama Yuusuke , Amiya Yoshiyasu , Sasaki Makoto , Shima Takayuki , Suzuki Noriyuki , Murakami Shino , Nakatsu Hiroomi , Shimazaki Jun
Published: March 2014

Introduction: For men with elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA), appropriate management after negative prostate biopsy remains controversial. After determining PSA kinetics, subsequent follow-up was considered. Patients and Methods: A total of 115 cases with negative repeat biopsy were followed by evaluating PSA kinetics and ratio of percent free PSA (F/T) and by performing second repeat biopsy. Results: Eighteen cancer cases were diagnosed. Shorter PSA doubling times and faster velocities were found in cancer cases compared with cases without cancer. We observed a clear decrease in F/T among cancer cases. Conclusions: To avoid unnecessary repeat biopsies, cases with a suspicion of cancer after negative biopsy can be divided into two groups: one that requires additional biopsies and one with an average change in PSA of <1 ng/ml/year and no change in F/T, which is recommended for surveillance as stable disease without biopsy over a specified time period.
A Morphological Classification of Retinal Ganglion Cells in the Japanese Catshark Scyliorhinus torazame
Authors: Muguruma Kaori , Stell William K. , Yamamoto Naoyuki
Published: March 2014

Retinal ganglion cells (GCs) in the Japanese catshark Scyliorhinus torazame were labeled retrogradely with biotinylated dextran amine (BDA3000). First the labeled cells were classified into 5 morphological types (types I-III: small GCs; types IV and V: large GCs) according to the size of the soma and the dendritic arborization pattern as seen in retinal wholemounts. Type I cells were stellate, with dendrites radiating in different directions. Type II cells had bipolar dendritic trees, with 2 primary dendrites extending in opposite directions. Type III cells had a single thick primary dendrite. Type IV cells were stellate, with dendrites covering a large area centered on the cell body. Type V cells were asymmetric, with most dendrites extending opposite to the axon as a large, fan-shaped dendritic field. Subsequently a wholemount was cross-sectioned, and we classified cells further into multiple subtypes according to the level of dendritic arborization within the inner plexiform layer. The present results suggest the existence of many types of GCs in elasmobranchs in addition to the 3 types of large GCs that have been characterized previously. Some of the newly described GC subtypes in the catshark retina appear to be similar to some of those reported in actinopterygians.
Cephalic Duodenopancreatectomy for Hyperalgic Duodenal Crohn's Disease Fistulized in the Pancreatic Gland
Authors: Guellouz Sabra , Pariente Benjamin , Benet Claire , Baudry Clotilde , Lourenco Nelson , Kraemer Aurore , Allez Matthieu , Gornet Jean-Marc
Published: March 2014

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement in adult Crohn's disease (CD) is rare and severe complications unusual. Stenosis has been reported, but gastroduodenal fistulae are seldom detected during surgery and most of the fistulae are cologastric or ileogastric. In complicated gastroduodenal CD, medical treatments are often effective and surgery is only considered in exceptional cases. We here report the unusual case of a 23-year-old patient with upper GI CD presenting a hyperalgic giant ulcer of the bulb fistulized in the pancreatic gland. The failure of steroids and two lines of combined treatment led us to a salvage surgical option. Abdominal exploration showed a plate stomach with an inflammatory bulboduodenal block. Cephalic duodenopancreatectomy and cholecystectomy were performed; histological analysis reported large fissuring pylorus ulceration with micro abscesses reaching the pancreas and the presence of non-caseating granulomas. Six months after the surgery, the patient had stopped antalgic treatment and did not have residual abdominal pain. He had gained 11 kg in weight and had no diarrhea with pancreatic enzymes. To our knowledge, we report the first case of an upper GI and fistulizing CD patient heavily treated with steroids and combined immunosuppressant agents requiring salvage cephalic duodenopancreatectomy.
Choice and Competition Between Adult Congenital Heart Disease Centers
Authors: Diller Gerhard-Paul , Kempny Aleksander , Piorkowski Adam , Grübler Martin , Swan Lorna , Baumgartner Helmut , Dimopoulos Konstantinos , Gatzoulis Michael A.
Published: March 2014

Background—

Although concentrating adult congenital heart disease services at high-volume centers has been widely advocated, the potential beneficial effects of competition and patient choice have received relatively little attention. We aimed to assess the degree of patient choice and competition between adult congenital heart disease units and to investigate whether competition indices correlate with clinical quality or research output.

Methods and Results—

Competition between the 10 major adult congenital heart disease units in England was evaluated based on the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index, representing the sum of squared market shares of individual units. In addition, to account for geography and feasible access, we calculated spatial indices of competition based on travel time by road. These indices were correlated with 30-day mortality postpulmonary valve replacement in adult patients (as obtained from the National Central Cardiac Audit Database) and the aggregate research impact factors of individual centers. On a national level, a high level of competition without obvious dominant players was found (Herfindahl–Hirschman Index between 0.107 and 0.013). When accounting for geography, however, important disparities in patient choice and competition faced by individual centers emerged. The degree of local competition was correlated significantly with clinical outcomes and research output. In contrast, no association between center volume and outcome could be established.

Conclusions—

Beyond the usual focus on concentrating services at high-volume centers, the potentially beneficial effects of competition should not be ignored. Therefore, policymakers should consider fostering a competitive environment for adult congenital heart disease centers or at least avoiding creating government-granted monopolies in the field.
Comparison of Electrocardiographic Criteria for the Detection of Cardiac Abnormalities in Elite Black and White Athletes
Authors: Sheikh Nabeel , Papadakis Michael , Ghani Saqib , Zaidi Abbas , Gati Sabiha , Adami Paolo Emilio , Carré François , Schnell Frédéric , Wilson Mathew , Avila Paloma , McKenna William , Sharma Sanjay
Published: March 2014

Background—

Recent efforts have focused on improving the specificity of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) criteria for ECG interpretation in athletes. These criteria are derived predominantly from white athletes (WAs) and do not account for the effect of Afro-Caribbean ethnicity or novel research questioning the relevance of several isolated ECG patterns. We assessed the impact of the ESC criteria, the newly published Seattle criteria, and a group of proposed refined criteria in a large cohort of black athletes (BAs) and WAs.

Methods and Results—

Between 2000 and 2012, 1208 BAs were evaluated with history, examination, 12-lead ECG, and further investigations as appropriate. ECGs were retrospectively analyzed according to the ESC recommendations, Seattle criteria, and proposed refined criteria which exclude several specific ECG patterns when present in isolation. All 3 criteria were also applied to 4297 WAs and 103 young athletes with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The ESC recommendations raised suspicion of a cardiac abnormality in 40.4% of BAs and 16.2% of WAs. The Seattle criteria reduced abnormal ECGs to 18.4% in BAs and 7.1% in WAs. The refined criteria further reduced abnormal ECGs to 11.5% in BAs and 5.3% in WAs. All 3 criteria identified 98.1% of athletes with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Compared with ESC recommendations, the refined criteria improved specificity from 40.3% to 84.2% in BAs and from 73.8% to 94.1% in WAs without compromising the sensitivity of the ECG in detecting pathology.

Conclusion—

Refinement of current ECG screening criteria has the potential to significantly reduce the burden of false-positive ECGs in athletes, particularly BAs.
Assessing the Clinical Effect of Residual Cortical Disconnection After Ischemic Strokes
Authors: Bonilha Leonardo , Rorden Chris , Fridriksson Julius
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose—

Studies assessing the relationship between chronic poststroke language impairment (aphasia) and ischemic brain damage usually rely on measuring the extent of brain necrosis observed on MRI. Nonetheless, clinical observation suggests that patients can exhibit deficits that are more severe than what would be expected based on lesion location and size. This phenomenon is commonly explained as being the result of cortical disconnection. To understand whether disconnection contributes to clinical symptoms, we assessed the relationship between language impairments and structural brain connectivity (the connectome) in patients with chronic aphasia after a stroke.

Methods—

Thirty-nine patients with chronic aphasia underwent language assessment and MRI scanning. Relying on MRI data, we reconstructed the individual connectome from T1-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging. Deterministic fiber tractography was used to assess connectivity between each possible pair of cortical Brodmann areas. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between language performance and cortical necrosis and cortical disconnection.

Results—

We observed that structural disconnection of Brodmann area 45 (spared by the necrotic tissue) was independently associated with naming performance, controlling for the extent of Brodmann area 45 necrosis (
F
=4.62;
P
<0.01; necrosis: β=0.43;
P
=0.03; disconnection β=1.21;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

We suggest that cortical disconnection, as measured by the structural connectome, is an independent predictor of naming impairment in patients with chronic aphasia. The full extent of clinically relevant brain damage after an ischemic stroke may be underappreciated by visual inspection of cortical necrosis alone.
Acute Renal Failure Is Associated With Higher Death and Disability in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Saeed Fahad , Adil Malik M. , Khursheed Faraz , Daimee Usama A. , Branch Lionel A. , Vidal Gabriel A. , Qureshi Adnan I.
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose—

Acute renal failure (ARF) in setting of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is associated with worse outcome. We sought to determine the prevalence of ARF and effect on outcomes of patients with AIS.

Methods—

Data from all patients admitted to US hospitals between 2002 and 2010 with a primary discharge diagnosis of ischemic stroke and secondary diagnosis of ARF were included. The effect of ARF on rates of intracerebral hemorrhage and discharge outcomes was analyzed after adjusting for potential confounders using logistic regression analysis.

Results—

Of 7 068 334 patients with AIS, 372 223 (5.3%) had ARF during hospitalization. Dialysis was required in 2364 (0.6%) of 372 223 patients. Patients with AIS with ARF had higher rates of moderate to severe disability (41.3% versus 30%;
P
<0.0001), intracerebral hemorrhage (1.0% versus 0.5%;
P
<0.0001), and in-hospital mortality (8.4% versus 2.9%;
P
<0.0001) compared with those without ARF. After adjusting for confounding factors, patients with AIS with ARF had higher odds of moderate to severe disability (odds ratio, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.3–1.4;
P
<0.0001), intracerebral hemorrhage (odds ratio, 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.3–1.6;
P
<0.0001), and death (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 2.0–2.2;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

ARF in patients with AIS is associated with significantly higher rates of moderate to severe disability at discharge and in-hospital mortality.
Y 34.9 aṣ̌ā and Other Unexpected Plurals in the Gāthās
Authors: Ahmadi Amir
Published: March 2014

There are a number of Old Avestan nouns whose appearance in the plural is unexpected from the viewpoint of their form or meaning and thus far unexplained. Where the noun occurs a number of times the exceptional character of the plural in the paradigm makes plain its irregularity. The commonly occurring terms xšaθra- and aṣ̌a- each appears only once in the plural. How should we understand the phenomenon? The unexpected plural noun is always associated with a group of persons. A careful analysis of the passages reveals that the semantically anomalous plural has a determinable discursive function. It emphatically ties the noun to each and every member of the group with which it is associated. Thus it underwrites the personally significant nature of the association.
Inspired Poetry: Śāntākaragupta’s Play on the Legend of Prince Sudhana and the Kinnarī
Authors: Dezső Csaba
Published: March 2014

A fragment of a play written on the Buddhist legend of prince Sudhana and the kinnarī has been microfilmed by the Nepal-German Manuscript Preservation Project. It was probably written at the end of the eleventh century in Bengal by a Buddhist scholar called Śāntākaragupta. The present article contains a critical edition and an English translation of the fragment, as well as an analysis of the intertextuality of the play and especially the literary influences that shaped the author’s poetic diction.
Book reviews
Authors: KITLV Redactie
Published: March 2014

Jan Sihar Aritonang and Karel Steenbrink (eds), A history of Christianity in Indonesia. (Sita van Bemmelen) Mark Beeson (ed.), Contemporary Southeast Asia. (Henk Schulte Nordholt) Peter Borschberg, The Singapore and Melaka Straits: Violence, security and diplomacy in the 17th century. (Hans Hägerdal) Lian Gouw, Only a girl: Menantang phoenix. (Widjajanti Dharmowijono) Eva-Lotta E. Hedman (ed.), Conflict, violence, and displacement in Indonesia. (Gerry van Klinken) Gerry van Klinken and Joshua Barker (eds), State of authority: The state in society in Indonesia. (Robert W Hefner) Mu’jizah, Iluminasi dalam surat-surat Melayu abad ke-18 dan ke-19 (E.P. Wieringa). Christian Riemenschneider and Brigitta Hauser-Schäublin, '…Yang hidup si sini, yang mati di sana': Upacara lingkaran hidup di desa Sembiran Bali (Indonesia). (Thomas Reuter) Ricardo Roque, Headhunting and colonialism: Anthropology and the circulation of human skulls in the Portuguese Empire, 1870- 1930. (Fenneke Sysling) Angela Schottenhammer (ed.), The East Asian ‘Mediterranean’: Maritime crossroads of culture, commerce and human migration. (Kwee Hui Kian) Karen Strassler, Refracted visions: Popular photography and national modernity in Java. (Suryadi)
KORTE SIGNALERINGEN
Authors: Poeze Harry A.
Published: March 2014

Francien van Anrooij, De koloniale staat 1854-1942; Gids voor het archief van het ministerie van Koloniën; De Indonesische archipel. Jan Derix, Brengers van de Boodschap; Geschiedenis van de katholieke missionering vanuit Nederland van VOC tot Vaticanum II. Bert L.T. van der Linden, Nou… tabé dan!; De ‘bootreis’ naar Indië met de Rotterdamsche Lloyd en de ‘Nederland’ tussen 1899 en 1949. Harm Stevens, Jos Stoopman en Pauljac Verhoeven (red.), De laatste Batakkoning; Koloniale kroniek in documenten 1883-1911. Meta Knol, Remco Raben en Kitty Zijlmans (red.), Beyond the Dutch; Indonesië, Nederland en de beeldende kunsten van 1900 tot nu. Hans van Wessel (eindredactie), Indische sporen; Bronnen voor lerarenopleiders. Van Nederlandsch Indië tot Indonesië. Samenstelling Hans van den Berg. 2 dvd’s, 222’. Nederlands-Indië in de Tweede Wereldoorlog. Samenstelling René Kok. Strijd om Indië; Het Nederlands-Indonesische conflict 1945-1949. Samenstelling René Kok Sjahrir, een grondlegger van het onafhankelijke Indonesië; Soetan Sjahrir 1909-1966. Den Haag: Stichting Vrienden van Linggadjati. Rita Young en Zwaan de Vries, Oorlog en overleven buiten Japanse kampen; Drie generaties vertellen… Beatrijs van Agt, Florine Koning, Esther Tak en Esther Wils, Het verborgen verhaal; Indische Nederlanders in oorlogstijd 1942-1949. Florine Koning, De Pasar Malam van Tong Tong, een Indische onderneming. Piet Sanders, Herinneringen. Wouter Meijer, ‘Ze zijn gék geworden in Den Haag’; Willem Oltmans en de kwestie Nieuw-Guinea. Edwin Oden, De man van 8 miljoen; Vriend & vijand over het fantastische leven van Willem Oltmans 1925-2004. Albert Kersten, met medewerking van Frits Bergman, Luns, een politieke biografie. Jacob Vredenbregt, Terugzien en nakaarten; Zestig jaar ooggetuige in Indonesië. Melati van Java, Fernand. Met een inleiding van Vilan van de Loo. Annie Foore, Bogoriana; Roman uit Indië. Met een inleiding van Vilan van de Loo. Mina Kruseman, Een huwelijk in Indië. Met een inleiding van Vilan van de Loo.
A Reanalysis of the 1931–43 Atlantic Hurricane Database*
Authors: Landsea Christopher W. , Hagen Andrew , Bredemeyer William , Carrasco Cristina , Glenn David A. , Santiago Adrian , Strahan-Sakoskie Donna , Dickinson Michael
Published: March 2014

A reanalysis of the Atlantic basin tropical storm and hurricane database (“best track”) for the period from 1931 to 1943 has been completed as part of the Atlantic Hurricane Database Reanalysis Project. This reassessment of the main archive for tropical cyclones of the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico was necessary to correct systematic biases and random errors in the data as well as to search for previously unrecognized systems. Methodology for the reanalysis process for revising the track and intensity of tropical cyclone data is largely unchanged from that of the preceding couple of decades and has been detailed in a previous paper on the reanalysis. Accurate Environmental Forecasting’s numerical weather prediction-based wind field model was utilized here to help determine which states were impacted by various hurricane force winds in several U.S. landfalling major hurricanes during this era. The 1931–43 dataset now includes 23 new tropical cyclones, excludes five systems previously considered tropical storms, makes generally large alterations in the intensity estimates of most tropical cyclones (at various times both toward stronger and weaker intensities), and typically adjusts existing tracks with minor corrections. Average errors in intensity and track values are estimated for both open ocean conditions as well as for landfalling systems. Finally, highlights are given for changes to the more significant hurricanes to impact the United States, Central America, and the Caribbean for this time period.
Assessment of NASA GISS CMIP5 and Post-CMIP5 Simulated Clouds and TOA Radiation Budgets Using Satellite Observations. Part I: Cloud Fraction and Properties
Authors: Stanfield Ryan E. , Dong Xiquan , Xi Baike , Kennedy Aaron , Del Genio Anthony D. , Minnis Patrick , Jiang Jonathan H.
Published: March 2014

Although many improvements have been made in phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), clouds remain a significant source of uncertainty in general circulation models (GCMs) because their structural and optical properties are strongly dependent upon interactions between aerosol/cloud microphysics and dynamics that are unresolved in such models. Recent changes to the planetary boundary layer (PBL) turbulence and moist convection parameterizations in the NASA GISS Model E2 atmospheric GCM (post-CMIP5, hereafter P5) have improved cloud simulations significantly compared to its CMIP5 (hereafter C5) predecessor. A study has been performed to evaluate these changes between the P5 and C5 versions of the GCM, both of which used prescribed sea surface temperatures. P5 and C5 simulated cloud fraction (CF), liquid water path (LWP), ice water path (IWP), cloud water path (CWP), precipitable water vapor (PWV), and relative humidity (RH) have been compared to multiple satellite observations including the Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System–Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (CERES-MODIS, hereafter CM), CloudSat–Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO; hereafter CC), Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS), and Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for Earth Observing System (AMSR-E). Although some improvements are observed in the P5 simulation on a global scale, large improvements have been found over the southern midlatitudes (SMLs), where correlations increased and both bias and root-mean-square error (RMSE) significantly decreased, in relation to the previous C5 simulation, when compared to observations. Changes to the PBL scheme have resulted in improved total column CFs, particularly over the SMLs where marine boundary layer (MBL) CFs have increased by nearly 20% relative to the previous C5 simulation. Globally, the P5 simulated CWPs are 25 g m−2 lower than the previous C5 results. The P5 version of the GCM simulates PWV and RH higher than its C5 counterpart and agrees well with the AMSR-E and AIRS observations. The moister atmospheric conditions simulated by P5 are consistent with the CF comparison and provide a strong support for the increase in MBL clouds over the SMLs. Over the tropics, the P5 version of the GCM simulated total column CFs and CWPs are slightly lower than the previous C5 results, primarily as a result of the shallower tropical boundary layer in P5 relative to C5 in regions outside the marine stratocumulus decks.
Towards Subdaily Rainfall Disaggregation via Clausius–Clapeyron
Authors: Bürger G. , Heistermann M. , Bronstert A.
Published: March 2014

Two lines of research are combined in this study: first, the development of tools for the temporal disaggregation of precipitation, and second, some newer results on the exponential scaling of heavy short-term precipitation with temperature, roughly following the Clausius–Clapeyron (CC) relation. Having no extra temperature dependence, the traditional disaggregation schemes are shown to lack the crucial CC-type temperature dependence. The authors introduce a proof-of-concept adjustment of an existing disaggregation tool, the multiplicative cascade model of Olsson, and show that, in principal, it is possible to include temperature dependence in the disaggregation step, resulting in a fairly realistic temperature dependence of the CC type. They conclude by outlining the main calibration steps necessary to develop a full-fledged CC disaggregation scheme and discuss possible applications.