bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integral Tate modules and splitting of primes in torsion fields of elliptic curves
Authors: Centeleghe Tommaso Giorgio
Published: July 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be an elliptic curve over a finite field [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] a prime number different from the characteristic of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we consider the problem of finding the structure of the Tate module [Formula: see text] as an integral Galois representations of [Formula: see text]. We indicate an explicit procedure to solve this problem starting from the characteristic polynomial [Formula: see text] and the [Formula: see text]-invariant [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text]. Hilbert Class Polynomials of imaginary quadratic orders play an important role here. We give a global application to the study of prime-splitting in torsion fields of elliptic curves over number fields.
Derangements on a Ferrers board
Authors: Linz William , Yan Catherine
Published: July 2015

We study the derangement number on a Ferrers board B = (n × n) - λ with respect to an initial permutation M, that is, the number of permutations on B that share no common points with M. We prove that the derangement number is independent of M if and only if λ is of rectangular shape. We characterize the initial permutations that give the minimal and maximal derangement numbers for a general Ferrers board, and present enumerative results when λ is a rectangle.
Partition of unity interpolation on multivariate convex domains
Authors: Cavoretto R. , De Rossi A. , Perracchione E.
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we present an algorithm for multivariate interpolation of scattered data sets lying in convex domains [Formula: see text], for any [Formula: see text]. To organize the points in a multidimensional space, we build a [Formula: see text]-tree space-partitioning data structure, which is used to efficiently apply a partition of unity interpolant. This global scheme is combined with local radial basis function (RBF) approximants and compactly supported weight functions. A detailed description of the algorithm for convex domains and a complexity analysis of the computational procedures are also considered. Several numerical experiments show the performances of the interpolation algorithm on various sets of Halton data points contained in [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] can be any convex domain, like a 2D polygon or a 3D polyhedron. Finally, an application to topographical data contained in a pentagonal domain is presented.
The pH-sensing receptor OGR1 improves barrier function of epithelial cells and inhibits migration in an acidic environment
Authors: de Vallière Cheryl , Vidal Solange , Clay Ieuan , Jurisic Giorgia , Tcymbarevich Irina , Lang Silvia , Ludwig Marie-Gabrielle , Okoniewski Michal , Eloranta Jyrki J. , Kullak-Ublick Gerd A. , Wagner Carsten A. , Rogler Gerhard , Seuwen Klaus
Published: July 2015

The pH-sensing receptor ovarian cancer G protein-coupled receptor 1 (OGR1; GPR68) is expressed in the gut. Inflammatory bowel disease is typically associated with a decrease in local pH, which may lead to altered epithelial barrier function and subsequent gastrointestinal repair involving epithelial cell adhesion and migration. As the mechanisms underlying the response to pH changes are not well understood, we have investigated OGR1-mediated, pH-dependent signaling pathways in intestinal epithelial cells. Caco-2 cells stably overexpressing OGR1 were created and validated as tools to study OGR1 signaling. Barrier function, migration, and proliferation were measured using electric cell-substrate impedance-sensing technology. Localization of the tight junction proteins zonula occludens protein 1 and occludin and the rearrangement of cytoskeletal actin were examined by confocal microscopy. Paracellular permeability and protein and gene expression analysis using DNA microarrays were performed on filter-grown Caco-2 monolayers. We report that an acidic pH shift from pH 7.8 to 6.6 improved barrier function and stimulated reorganization of filamentous actin with prominent basal stress fiber formation. Cell migration and proliferation during in vitro wound healing were inhibited. Gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes related to cytoskeleton remodeling, cell adhesion, and growth factor signaling. We conclude that acidic extracellular pH can have a signaling function and impact the physiology of intestinal epithelial cells. The deconstruction of OGR1-dependent signaling may aid our understanding of mucosal inflammation mechanisms.
The acute response of pericytes to muscle-damaging eccentric contraction and protein supplementation in human skeletal muscle
Authors: De Lisio Michael , Farup Jean , Sukiennik Richard A. , Clevenger Nicole , Nallabelli Julian , Nelson Brett , Ryan Kelly , Rahbek Stine K. , de Paoli Frank , Vissing Kristian , Boppart Marni D.
Published: July 2015

Skeletal muscle pericytes increase in quantity following eccentric exercise (ECC) and contribute to myofiber repair and adaptation in mice. The purpose of the present investigation was to examine pericyte quantity in response to muscle-damaging ECC and protein supplementation in human skeletal muscle. Male subjects were divided into protein supplement (WHY; n = 12) or isocaloric placebo (CHO; n = 12) groups and completed ECC using an isokinetic dynamometer. Supplements were consumed 3 times/day throughout the experimental time course. Biopsies were collected prior to (PRE) and 3, 24, 48, and 168 h following ECC. Reflective of the damaging protocol, integrin subunits, including α7, β1A, and β1D, increased (3.8-fold, 3.6-fold and 3.9-fold, respectively, P < 0.01) 24 h post-ECC with no difference between supplements. Pericyte quantity did not change post-ECC. WHY resulted in a small, but significant, decrease in ALP+ pericytes when expressed as a percentage of myonuclei (CHO 6.8 ± 0.3% vs. WHY 5.8 ± 0.3%, P < 0.05) or per myofiber (CHO 0.119 ± 0.01 vs. WHY 0.098 ± 0.01, P < 0.05). The quantity of myonuclei expressing serum response factor and the number of pericytes expressing serum response factor, did not differ as a function of time post-ECC or supplement. These data demonstrate that acute muscle-damaging ECC increases α7β1 integrin content in human muscle, yet pericyte quantity is largely unaltered. Future studies should focus on the capacity for ECC to influence pericyte function, specifically paracrine factor release as a mechanism toward pericyte contribution to repair and adaptation postexercise.
Silencing Egr1 Attenuates Radiation-Induced Apoptosis in Normal Tissues while Killing Cancer Cells and Delaying Tumor Growth
Authors: Zhao Diana Yi , Jacobs Keith M. , Hallahan Dennis E. , Thotala Dinesh
Published: July 2015

Normal tissue toxicity reduces the therapeutic index of radiotherapy and decreases the quality of life for cancer survivors. Apoptosis is a key element of the radiation response in normal tissues like the hippocampus and small intestine, resulting in neurocognitive disorders and intestinal malabsorption. The Early Growth Response 1 (Egr1) transcription factor mediates radiation-induced apoptosis by activating the transcription of proapoptosis genes in response to ionizing radiation (IR). Therefore, we hypothesized that the genetic abrogation of Egr1 and the pharmacologic inhibition of its transcriptional activity could attenuate radiation-induced apoptosis in normal tissues. We demonstrated that Egr1-null mice had less apoptosis in the hippocampus and intestine following irradiation as compared with their wild-type littermates. A similar result was achieved using Mithramycin A (MMA) to prevent binding of Egr1 to target promoters in the mouse intestine. Abolishing Egr1 expression using shRNA dampened apoptosis and enhanced the clonogenic survival of irradiated HT22 hippocampal neuronal cells and IEC6 intestinal epithelial cells. Mechanistically, these events involved an abrogation of p53 induction by IR and an increase in the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax expression. In contrast, targeted silencing of Egr1 in two cancer cell lines (GL261 glioma cells and HCT116 colorectal cancer cells) was not radioprotective, since it reduced their growth while also sensitizing them to radiation-induced death. Further, Egr1 depletion delayed the growth of heterotopically implanted GL261 and HCT116 tumors. These results support the potential of silencing Egr1 in order to minimize the normal tissue complications associated with radiotherapy while enhancing tumor control. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2343–52. ©2015 AACR.
Polymorphisms in Genes Involved in EGFR Turnover Are Predictive for Cetuximab Efficacy in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Stintzing Sebastian , Zhang Wu , Heinemann Volker , Neureiter Daniel , Kemmerling Ralf , Kirchner Thomas , Jung Andreas , Folwaczny Matthias , Yang Dongyun , Ning Yan , Sebio Ana , Stremitzer Stefan , Sunakawa Yu , Matsusaka Satoshi , Yamauchi Shinichi , Loupakis Fotios , Cremolini Chiara , Falcone Alfredo , Lenz Heinz-Josef
Published: July 2015

Transmembrane receptors, such as the EGFR, are regulated by their turnover, which is dependent on the ubiquitin-proteasome system. We tested in two independent study cohorts whether SNPs in genes involved in EGFR turnover predict clinical outcome in cetuximab-treated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. The following SNPs involved in EGFR degradation were analyzed in a screening cohort of 108 patients treated with cetuximab in the chemorefractory setting: c-CBL (rs7105971; rs4938637; rs4938638; rs251837), EPS15 (rs17567; rs7308; rs1065754), NAE1 (rs363169; rs363170; rs363172), SH3KBP1 (rs7051590; rs5955820; rs1017874; rs11795873), SGIP1 (rs604737; rs6570808; rs7526812), UBE2M (rs895364; rs895374), and UBE2L3 (rs5754216). SNPs showing an association with response or survival were analyzed in BRAF and RAS wild-type samples from the FIRE-3 study. One hundred and fifty-three FOLFIRI plus cetuximab-treated patients served as validation set, and 168 patients of the FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab arm served as controls. EGFR FISH was done in 138 samples to test whether significant SNPs were associated with EGFR expression. UBE2M rs895374 was significantly associated with progression-free survival (log-rank P = 0.005; HR, 0.60) within cetuximab-treated patients. No association with bevacizumab-treated patients (n = 168) could be established (P = 0.56; HR, 0.90). rs895374 genotype did not affect EGFR FISH measurements. EGFR recycling is an interesting mechanism of secondary resistance to cetuximab in mCRC. This is the first report suggesting that germline polymorphisms in the degradation process predict efficacy of cetuximab in patients with mCRC. Genes involved in EGFR turnover may be new targets in the treatment of mCRC. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2374–81. ©2015 AACR.
Assessment of the In Vivo Activity of PI3K and MEK Inhibitors in Genetically Defined Models of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Raja Meera , Zverev Matt , Seipel Katja , Williams Geraint T. , Clarke Alan R. , Shaw Paul H.S.
Published: July 2015

The objective of tailoring medicines for cancer patients according to the molecular profile of their disease holds great promise for the improvement of cancer therapy. Nevertheless, this approach has been limited, in part, due to the lack of predictive and informative preclinical studies. Herein, we describe an assessment of the therapeutic potential of targeting PI3K/mTOR and MAPK signaling in genetically defined mouse models of colorectal cancer mirroring disease subtypes targeted for novel therapy in the FOCUS4 trial. Our studies demonstrate that dual PI3K/mTOR inhibition is highly effective in invasive adenocarcinoma models characterized by combinatorial mutations in Apc and Pten; Apc and Kras; and Apc, Pten and Kras. MEK inhibition was effective in the combinatorial Apc and Kras setting, but had no impact in either Apc Pten mutants or in Apc Pten Kras triple mutants. Furthermore, we describe the importance of scheduling for combination studies and show that although no additional benefit is gained in Apc Pten mice, combination of PI3K/mTOR and MAPK inhibition leads to an additive benefit in survival in Apc Kras mice and a synergistic increase in survival in Apc Pten Kras mice. This is the first study using robust colorectal cancer genetically engineered mouse models to support the validity of PI3K/mTOR and MEK inhibitors as tailored therapies for colorectal cancer and highlight the potential importance of drug scheduling in the clinic. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2175–86. ©2015 AACR.
Intrapulmonary Delivery of CpG Microparticles Eliminates Lung Tumors
Authors: Sato Takashi , Shimosato Takeshi , Ueda Atsuhisa , Ishigatsubo Yoshiaki , Klinman Dennis M.
Published: July 2015

CpG oligonucleotides (ODN) stimulate the innate immune system by triggering cells that express TLR9. The resulting response promotes tumor regression, an effect optimized by delivery of CpG ODN to the tumor site. This work examines the effect of instilling CpG ODN adsorbed onto polyketal microparticles (CpG-MP) into the lungs of mice with non–small cell lung cancer. Intrapulmonary delivery of CpG-MP improved ODN uptake and retention at the tumor site, thereby inducing a stronger Th1 response than systemically administered or unadsorbed CpG ODN. CpG-MP reversed the immunosuppression that characterized the tumor microenvironment by (i) decreasing the number of immunosuppressive Tregs and M2 macrophages while (ii) increasing the number of tumoricidal CD8+ T cells and M1 macrophages. These effects promoted tumor regression and culminated in 82% permanent survival of mice with otherwise fatal Lewis lung cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2198–205. ©2015 AACR.
Inhibition of Wild-Type p53-Expressing AML by the Novel Small Molecule HDM2 Inhibitor CGM097
Authors: Weisberg Ellen , Halilovic Ensar , Cooke Vesselina G. , Nonami Atsushi , Ren Tao , Sanda Takaomi , Simkin Irene , Yuan Jing , Antonakos Brandon , Barys Louise , Ito Moriko , Stone Richard , Galinsky Ilene , Cowens Kristen , Nelson Erik , Sattler Martin , Jeay Sebastien , Wuerthner Jens U. , McDonough Sean M. , Wiesmann Marion , Griffin James D.
Published: July 2015

The tumor suppressor p53 is a key regulator of apoptosis and functions upstream in the apoptotic cascade by both indirectly and directly regulating Bcl-2 family proteins. In cells expressing wild-type (WT) p53, the HDM2 protein binds to p53 and blocks its activity. Inhibition of HDM2:p53 interaction activates p53 and causes apoptosis or cell-cycle arrest. Here, we investigated the ability of the novel HDM2 inhibitor CGM097 to potently and selectively kill WT p53-expressing AML cells. The antileukemic effects of CGM097 were studied using cell-based proliferation assays (human AML cell lines, primary AML patient cells, and normal bone marrow samples), apoptosis, and cell-cycle assays, ELISA, immunoblotting, and an AML patient–derived in vivo mouse model. CGM097 potently and selectively inhibited the proliferation of human AML cell lines and the majority of primary AML cells expressing WT p53, but not mutant p53, in a target-specific manner. Several patient samples that harbored mutant p53 were comparatively unresponsive to CGM097. Synergy was observed when CGM097 was combined with FLT3 inhibition against oncogenic FLT3-expressing cells cultured both in the absence as well as the presence of cytoprotective stromal-secreted cytokines, as well as when combined with MEK inhibition in cells with activated MAPK signaling. Finally, CGM097 was effective in reducing leukemia burden in vivo. These data suggest that CGM097 is a promising treatment for AML characterized as harboring WT p53 as a single agent, as well as in combination with other therapies targeting oncogene-activated pathways that drive AML. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2249–59. ©2015 AACR.
Posterior Circulation Ischemic Stroke Caused by Arterial Dissection: Characteristics and Predictors of Poor Outcomes
Authors: Chang Feng-Chi , Yong Chin-Sern , Huang Hui-Chi , Tsai Jui-Yao , Sheng Wen-Yung , Hu Han-Hwa , Chung Chih-Ping
Published: July 2015

Background: Posterior circulation ischemic stroke (PCS) caused by arterial dissection (AD-PCS) was rarely discussed. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and predictors of poor outcomes in AD-PCS patients. Methods: A total of 286 PCS patients were recruited from Taipei Veterans General Hospital Stroke Registry (between January 1, 2012 and February 28, 2014). Clinical/image data of recruited PCS patients were reviewed by stroke specialists who reached a consensus on the stroke etiologies. Data of AD-PCS patients were analyzed. Results: Seventy-four patients (65.8 ± 15.6 years, 56 (75.7%) men) were determined as AD-PCS. Headache and neck pain at admission were only presented in 18.9 and 6.8% of patients, respectively. The location of AD was initiated in the vertebral artery (66.2%), basilar artery (27.0%), posterior inferior cerebellar artery (5.4%) and posterior cerebral artery (1.4%). The involvement of intracranial arteries was present in the majority of patients (97.3%). Of the patients, 9.5% died, and 29.7% had poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale ≥4) at 3-month. Conscious change independently predicted mortality at 3 months. Quadriparesis, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score >8 and infarct lesions involving >1 category were independent predictors for poor functional outcomes at 3 months. Conclusion: AD is an important etiology of PCS. Physicians should be more vigilant in recognizing AD-PCS. Intracranial arteries are more important in AD-PCS; very few patients of AD-PCS had dissection solely in extracranial arteries. Short-term outcomes of AD-PCS were not favorable. Conscious change, quadriparesis, NIHSS score >8 and infarct lesions involving >1 category were independent predictors for poor outcomes. Patients presenting these factors should be monitored closely.
Electrochemical Skin Conductance in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Freedman Barry I. , Smith Susan Carrie , Bagwell Benjamin M. , Xu Jianzhao , Bowden Donald W. , Divers Jasmin
Published: July 2015

Background: There is a need to identify patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using noninvasive, cost-effective screening tests. Sudoscan®, a device using electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) to measure sweat gland dysfunction, is valuable for detecting peripheral neuropathy. ESC was tested for association with DKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2) in 383 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D)-affected patients; diagnostic thresholds were determined in 540 patients. Methods: Relationships between ESC with eGFR and urine albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) were assessed in 202 European Americans and 181 African Americans with T2D. Results: In 92 European American DKD cases and 110 T2D non-nephropathy controls, respectively, mean (SD) ages were 69 (9.7) and 61 (10.8) years, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) 7.4 (1.2) and 7.4 (1.3)%, eGFR 29.6 (12.2) and 87.8 (14.2) ml/min/1.73 m2, and UACR 1,214 (1,705) and 7.5 (5.8) mg/g. In 57 African American cases and 124 controls, respectively, mean (SD) ages were 64.0 (11.9) and 59.5 (9.7) years, HbA1c 7.4 (1.3) and 7.5 (1.7)%, eGFR 29.6 (13.3) and 90.2 (16.2) ml/min/1.73 m2, and UACR 1,172 (1,564) and 7.8 (7.1) mg/g. Mean (SD) ESC (μS) was lower in cases than controls (European Americans: case/control hands 49.5 (18.5)/62.3 (16.2); feet 62.1 (17.9)/73.6 (13.8), both p < 1.3 × 10-6; African Americans: case/control hands 39.8 (19.0)/48.5 (17.1); feet 53.2 (21.3)/63.5 (19.4), both p ≤ 0.01). Adjusting for age, sex, body mass index and HbA1c, hands and feet ESC associated with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p ≤ 7.2 × 10-3), UACR >30 mg/g (p ≤ 7.0 × 10-3), UACR >300 mg/g (p ≤ 8.1 × 10-3), and continuous traits eGFR and UACR (both p ≤ 5.0 × 10-9). HbA1c values were not useful for risk stratification. Conclusions: ESC measured using Sudoscan® is strongly associated with DKD in African Americans and European Americans. ESC is a useful screening test to identify DKD in patients with T2D.
Next-Generation Sequencing-Based Molecular Diagnosis of Choroideremia
Authors: Shimizu Kayo , Oishi Akio , Oishi Maho , Ogino Ken , Morooka Satoshi , Sugahara Masako , Gotoh Norimoto , Yoshimura Nagahisa
Published: July 2015

We screened patients with choroideremia using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and identified a novel mutation and a known mutation in the CHM gene. One patient presented an atypical fundus appearance for choroideremia. Another patient presented macular hole retinal detachment in the left eye. The present case series shows the utility of NGS-based screening in patients with choroideremia. In addition, the presence of macular hole in 1 of the 2 patients, together with a previous report, indicated the susceptibility of patients with choroideremia to macular hole.
Obesity Prevention in Scotland: A Policy Analysis Using the ANGELO Framework
Authors: Mooney John D. , Jepson Ruth , Frank John , Geddes Rosemary
Published: July 2015

Background: The Scottish Government's ‘Route-Map Action Plan' for obesity prevention sets out 62 potential intervention policies across all stages of the life course. We used the ANGELO Framework (Analysis Grid for Environments Linked to Obesity) to assess the appropriateness and likely impact of the balance of measures being proposed. Methods: Two assessors (JM & RJ) independently allocated a category for each intervention according to its domain (physical, economic, legislative or socio-cultural), scale (macro or micro) and predominant ‘focus' (physical activity versus diet). A third assessor (RG) examined discordant allocations. Results: Across the four ANGELO domains, the distribution of interventions was skewed towards socio-cultural measures (37.1%) and the physical environment (33.1%) with less emphasis on legislative or economic interventions (21.8% and 6.4% respectively). Distribution by both intervention scale and focus was more even with just over half of all policies (51.8%) at the macro-level scale and just under half (46.7%) having a dietary focus. Conclusion: The predominance of socio-culturally orientated interventions over their legislative and economic counterparts is at odds with the balance of international evidence on what would be most effective for obesity prevention. The ANGELO framework provides a useful tool for policy makers to monitor progress towards an appropriately balanced policy mix.
Two Cases of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising in Immunosuppressed Patients with Chronic Human Papillomavirus Infection
Authors: Kuma Yuki , Ito Takamichi , Nagae Konosuke , Mizote Yukihiro , Nakahara Takeshi , Uchi Hiroshi , Yamada Yuichi , Okura Masae , Oda Yoshinao , Yamashita Toshiharu , Furue Masutaka
Published: July 2015

Increasing evidence has suggested that human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are linked to a large subset of numerous malignant tumors, including mucosal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC); however, its involvement in cutaneous SCC has not fully been elucidated. Cutaneous SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer and is increasing in frequency every year. Since we have no satisfactory treatment for advanced SCC, it is important to provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic intervention at an early stage. Here, we present two cases of SCC arising in immunosuppressed patients. In these cases, we suspected the association between SCC and HPV infection histopathologically and succeeded in proving the presence of high-risk type HPV by PCR analysis (HPV 14 in case 1 and HPV 23 and 38 in case 2). Although it is unclear whether HPV actually induced SCC in our cases, our cases showed rapid progression comparing to typical courses of actinic keratosis (AK)/SCC. SCC and AK are common diseases; in daily practice, dermatologists examine many patients with immunosuppression of various causes. We should apply increased oncological vigilance to these patients to prevent an aggressive course of SCC/AK.
Serum Mimecan Is Associated With Arterial Stiffness in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Gu Xiaosong , Zhao Liangping , Zhu Jing , Gu Haibo , Li Hui , Wang Luchen , Xu Weiting , Chen Jianchang
Published: July 2015

Background

Mimecan plays an important role in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell integrity and may be involved the pathology of arterial stiffness. However, the role of mimecan in arterial stiffness in patients with hypertension is not well defined.

Methods and Results

A total of 116 hypertension patients and 54 healthy controls were enrolled in the investigation. Hypertensive patients were divided into 2 groups: the with arterial stiffness group (brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity [ba
PWV
] ≥1400 cm/s; n=83) and the without arterial stiffness group (ba
PWV
<1400 cm/s; n=33). A noninvasive measure of vascular stiffness was performed using pulse wave velocity (
PWV
) measurement of ba
PWV
. Hypertensive patients had higher ba
PWV
, mimecan, and endothelin 1 (
ET
‐1) than healthy controls. The arterial stiffness group had higher mimecan and endothelin 1 (
ET
‐1) and lower ankle‐brachial pressure index (
ABI
) than those without stiffness. In hypertensive patients, mimecan was inversely correlated with
ABI
(
P
<0.05) and positively correlated with ba
PWV
,
ET
‐1, and total cholesterol. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, diastolic blood pressure, mimecan,
ET
‐1, and creatinine were independent predictors of arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

Mimecan levels are higher in hypertensive patients than in healthy controls. Increased plasma mimecan levels are independently associated with increased arterial stiffness as assessed by ba
PWV
.
Long-Term Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability Changes in Binswanger Disease
Authors: Huisa Branko N. , Caprihan Arvind , Thompson Jeffrey , Prestopnik Jillian , Qualls Clifford R. , Rosenberg Gary A.
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is disrupted in small vessel disease patients with lacunes and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs). The relationship of WMHs and regional BBB permeability changes has not been studied. We hypothesized that BBB disruption occurs in normal appearing WM and regions near the WMHs. To test the hypothesis, we repeated BBB permeability measurements in patients with extensive WMHs related to Binswanger disease.

Methods—

We selected a subset of 22 Binswanger disease subjects from a well-characterized larger prospective vascular cognitive impairment cohort. We used 16 age-matched controls for comparison. The abnormal WM permeability (WMP) was measured twice for several years using dynamic contrast–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. WMP maps were constructed from voxels above a predetermined threshold. Scans from first and second visits were coregistered. WM was divided into 3 regions: normal appearing WM, WMH ring, and WMH core. The ring was defined as 2 mm on each side of the WMH border. WMP was calculated in each of the 3 specific regions. We used paired
t
test, ANOVA, and Fisher exact test to compare individual changes.

Results—

WMP was significantly higher in subjects than in controls (
P
<0.001). There was no correlation between WMH load and WMP. High permeability regions had minimal overlap between first and second scans. Nine percent of WMP was within the WMHs, 49% within the normal appearing WM, and 52% within the WMH ring (
P
<0.001; ANOVA).

Conclusions—

Increased BBB permeability in normal appearing WM and close to the WMH borders supports a relationship between BBB disruption and the development of WMHs.
Cognitive Biases and Procedural Rules: Enhancing the Use of Alternative Sanctions
Authors: Kantorowicz-Reznichenko Elena
Published: July 2015

The practice of short-term imprisonment has been long criticised due to its criminogenic effect and costs. To minimise its use, many European countries introduced alternative sanctions such as community service or home confinement with electronic monitoring. Unfortunately, in practice those sanctions are often imposed on non prison-bound offenders, a phenomenon termed ‘the net-widening problem’. Consequently, instead of reducing the prison population, the alternative sanctions substitute lighter punishments such as fines or conditional imprisonment. The discretion power whether to impose a prison sentence or its alternatives lies in the hands of the judges. Therefore, the way to enhance the use of alternative sanctions as a substitute to short-term imprisonment is to change the behaviour of judges. This paper adopts the behavioural law and economics approach to discuss, in the context of European criminal justice systems, how certain procedural rules overcome or use cognitive biases in order to promote the use of alternative sanctions.
Taxonomy of the subgenus Quedius (Raphirus) Stephens (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylinini: Quediina) with descriptions of four new species from China
Authors: CAI YAN-PENG , ZHOU HONG-ZHANG
Published: July 2015

Four new species of the subgenus Raphirus Stephens, 1829 of the genus Quedius Stephens, 1829 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylinini: Quediina) are described based on specimens collected from China: Q. (Raphirus) hubeiensis sp. nov. from Hubei, Q. (Raphirus) ningxiaensis sp. nov. from Ningxia, Q. (Raphirus) spissus sp. nov. from Sichuan, and Q. (Raphirus) tenuiculus sp. nov. from Fujian. The females of Q. (Raphirus) oros Smetana, 2011 and Q. (Raphirus) shunichii Smetana, 2010 are described for the first time. Q. (Raphirus) kuiro Smetana, 1988 is recorded for the first time from China. Line drawings and color illustrations of adults and genitalia of all these species and some other ones are provided.
The Cephenniini of China. VI. New species and new records of Cephennodes Reitter from Hainan, Guangxi and Guangdong (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: July 2015

Five new Chinese species of Cephennodes (s. str.) are described: C. bicavatus sp. n. (Guangdong), C. pseudobos sp. n. (Guangxi), C. huapingensis sp. n. (Guangxi), C. elevatus sp. n. (Guangxi), and C. gaozhaianus sp. n. (Guangxi). Cephennodes qiongdaoanus Jałoszyński and C. capricornis Jałoszyński are recorded for new localities in the provinces of Guangxi and Hainan, respectively. Diagnostic characters of all hitherto known representatives of the Cephennodes taurus, Cephennodes bos and Cephennodes impressifrons species groups are compiled.
New species and records of Neopronematus (Acari: Iolinidae) from Iran with a key to world species
Authors: DARBEMAMIEH MARYAM , HAJIQANBAR HAMIDREZA , KHANJANI MOHAMMAD , KAŹMIERSKI ANDRZEJ
Published: July 2015

In this paper, Neopronematus kamalii Darbemamieh and Hajiqanbar sp. nov. (Acari: Prostigmata: Iolinidae), collected from apricot leaves in Kermanshah province, Iran, is described and illustrated. Also, the following species were collected and identified from Kermanshah province, Iran: Neopronematus rapidus (Kuznetzov, 1972), Neopronematus solani Łaniecka and Kaźmierski, 2013; Neopronematus sepasgosariani Sadeghi, Łaniecka and Kaźmierski, 2012; Neopronematus lundqvisti Sadeghi, Łaniecka and Kaźmierski, 2012; and Neopronematus neglectus (Kuznetzov, 1972). Some information about the genus, morphologically close species, remarks and a key to Neopronematus species of the world are given as well.
A new species of the genus Liuixalus (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from southern China
Authors: YANG JIAN-HUAN , RAO DING-QI , WANG YING-YONG
Published: July 2015

A new tree frog species of the genus Liuixalus was described from Heishiding Nature Reserve, Guangdong Province, China based on a combination of morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Liuixalus feii sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of following characters: small size (SVL 16.2–17.6 mm in adult males and 18.0–18.7 mm in adult females); snout obtusely pointed; tympanum distinct, about half size of eye diameter; nostril closer to eye than to the tip of snout; fingers free of webbing; toe III longer than toe V; toes weakly webbed; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the naris or loreal; dorsal skin smooth and scattered with fine granulars; a subtle longitudinal median ridge present on dorsum; weak skin folds present on dorsal surface of body and thighs; supratympanic fold distinct and curved; ventral surface dull white with more or less irregular dark spots; iris bicolored. The new species appears to be forest-dependent and to date has only been found on the forest floor in primary forests at elevations between 350–800 m. Based on our molecular analyses, we consider Liuixalus catbaensis as a junior synonym of L. calcarius. Thus, with the description of the new species, the genus Liuixalus hitherto contains five recognized species, four of which are endemic to China.
Description of four new species of brachypterous Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) from India
Authors: HAYAT MOHAMMAD , VEENAKUMARI KAMALANATHAN
Published: July 2015

Four new brachypterous species of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) are described. These are: Astymachus eximius Hayat, sp. nov., Ixodiphagus aethes Hayat, sp. nov., Monstranusia brachyptera Hayat, sp. nov., Ooencyrtus notialis Hayat, sp. nov. Brachyptery in the genera Astymachus Howard and Monstranusia Trjapitzin is reported for the first time.
A new blind snake (Serpentes: Typhlopidae) from an endangered habitat in south-eastern Queensland, Australia
Authors: VENCHI ALBERTO , WILSON STEVE K. , BORSBOOM ADRIAN C.
Published: July 2015

A new species of blind snake is described from south-eastern Queensland, eastern Australia. Anilios insperatus sp. nov. differs from all of its congeners in having:16 scales around the body; 442 paravertebral scales; snout slightly trilobed from above and bluntly angular in profile; small, inconspicuous eyes, located within the ocular scale at its junction with the preocular and the supraocular scales; and uniform light colouration. The unique specimen was collected from pasture that was formally Queensland regional ecosystem 12.8.24, a eucalypt dominated ecosystem currently listed as endangered. The site is less than 100 km from Queensland’s capital, Brisbane. Given the locality, habitat and absence of additional specimens, the species is probably of conservation concern.
Taxonomy of the Alloraphes-Stenichnaphes-Parastenichnaphes complex: Stenichnodes complicates the picture (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: July 2015

Examination of the holotype of the type species of Stenichnodes Franz revealed that morphological structures of this Afrotropical genus are nearly identical with those of later described Oriental Parastenichnaphes Franz. Consequently, Parastenichnaphes is reduced to a subgenus of Stenichnodes, resulting in Stenichnodes (Parastenichnaphes) sumatrensis Franz, comb. n. and Stenichnodes (Parastenichnaphes) ceylonensis Franz, comb. n. The subgenus Parastenichnaphes differs from Stenichnodes s. str. in notosternal sutures of the prothorax complete (and not obliterated anteriorly), subtriangular (and not very narrow and carinate) prosternal process and absence of lateral metaventral carinae. Stenichnodes and its type species are redescribed.
A new Polymixis (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) species from China
Authors: SALDAITIS Aidas , BENEDEK BALÁZS , BABICS JÁNOS
Published: July 2015

A new Polymixis Hübner species from China’s Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces is described and distribution data for Polymixis albiorbis Hreblay & Ronkay, 1998 is provided. The type specimen of Polymixis albirena (Boursin, 1944) and the Polymixis magnirena (Alphéraky, 1892) holotype’s genitalia are illustrated.
Interhemispheric Asymmetry of Warming in an Eddy-Permitting Coupled Sector Model
Authors: Hutchinson David K. , England Matthew H. , M. Hogg Andrew , Snow Kate
Published: July 2015

Climate model projections and observations show a faster rate of warming in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) than the Southern Hemisphere (SH). This asymmetry is partly due to faster rates of warming over the land than the ocean, and partly due to the ocean circulation redistributing heat toward the NH. This study examines the interhemispheric warming asymmetry in an intermediate complexity coupled climate model with eddy-permitting (0.25°) ocean resolution, and results are compared with a similar model with coarse (1°) ocean resolution. The models use a pole-to-pole 60° wide sector domain in the ocean and a 120° wide sector in the atmosphere, with Atlantic-like bathymetry and a simple land model. There is a larger high-latitude ocean temperature asymmetry in the 0.25° model compared with the 1° model, both in equilibrated control runs and in response to greenhouse warming. The larger warming asymmetry is caused by greater melting of NH sea ice in the 0.25° model, associated with faster, less viscous boundary currents transporting heat northward. The SH sea ice and heat transport response is relatively insensitive to the resolution change, since the eddy heat transport differences between the models are small compared with the mean flow heat transport. When a wind shift and intensification is applied in these warming scenarios, the warming asymmetry is further enhanced, with greater upwelling of cool water in the Southern Ocean and enhanced warming in the NH. Surface air temperatures show a substantial but lesser degree of high-latitude warming asymmetry, reflecting the sea surface warming patterns over the ocean but warming more symmetrically over the land regions.
Characterization of the Simulated Regional Snow Albedo Feedback Using a Regional Climate Model over Complex Terrain
Authors: Letcher Theodore W. , Minder Justin R.
Published: July 2015

Midlatitude mountain regions are particularly sensitive to climate change because of an active snow albedo feedback (SAF). Here, the SAF is characterized and quantified over the complex terrain of the Colorado Headwaters region using high-resolution regional climate model simulations. A pair of 7-yr control and pseudo-global warming simulations is used to study the regional climate response to a large-scale thermodynamic climate perturbation. Warming is strongly enhanced in regions of snow loss by as much as 5°C. Linear feedback analysis is used to quantify the strength of the SAF within the Headwaters region. The strength of the SAF reaches a maximum value of 4 W m−2 K−1 during April when snow loss coincides with strong incoming solar radiation. Simulations using 4- and 12-km horizontal grid spacing show good agreement in the strength and timing of the SAF, whereas a 36-km simulation shows discrepancies that are tied to differences in snow accumulation and ablation caused by smoother terrain. Energy budget analysis shows that transport by atmospheric circulations acts as a negative feedback to regional warming, damping the effects of the SAF. On the mesoscale, the SAF nonlocally enhances warming in locations with no snow, and enhances snowmelt in locations that do not experience snow cover change. The methods presented here can be used generally to quantify the role of the SAF in simulated regional climate change, illuminating the causes of differences in climate warming between models and regions.
Impact of Environmental Heterogeneity on the Dynamics of a Dissipating Supercell Thunderstorm
Authors: Davenport Casey E. , Parker Matthew D.
Published: July 2015

On 9 June 2009, the Second Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes Experiment (VORTEX2) sampled a supercell as it traversed through an increasingly stable environment with decreasing bulk shear and storm-relative helicity. To investigate the impacts of the observed environmental heterogeneity on storm morphology, a series of idealized simulations were conducted. Utilizing the base-state substitution modeling technique, the separate effects of the changing wind profile and the increasingly stable boundary layer were evaluated. The varying base-state environment in each experiment elevated the mean source region of updraft parcels. These elevated parcels were drier (with less instability), and more negatively impacted by entrainment. Thus, as the updraft ingested a larger fraction of elevated parcels, its buoyancy was depleted, leading to demise. Unsurprisingly, the increasingly stable low-level environment played a dominant role in this process; however, wind profile modifications also elevated the mean source region of updraft parcels, which independently impacted storm strength and morphology. Changes to the storm’s internal dynamical processes were assessed using the diagnostic pressure equation. The evolution in total vertical acceleration was primarily related to changes in accelerations that were connected to updraft rotation, as well as shifts in buoyancy. The dynamical accelerations weakened and became maximized at a different altitude, resulting in an increasingly elevated updraft parcel source region. Overall, this study finds that a shifting updraft parcel source region can significantly impact storm maintenance; importantly, such a shift can result from changes in environmental temperature, moisture, or wind profiles.
Analyzing Vortex Winds in Radar-Observed Tornadic Mesocyclones for Nowcast Applications
Authors: Xu Qin , Wei Li , Nai Kang
Published: July 2015

A computationally efficient method is developed to analyze the vortex wind fields of radar-observed mesocyclones. The method has the following features. (i) The analysis is performed in a nested domain over the mesocyclone area on a selected tilt of radar low-elevation scan. (ii) The background error correlation function is formulated with a desired vortex-flow dependence in the cylindrical coordinates cocentered with the mesocyclone. (iii) The square root of the background error covariance matrix is derived analytically to precondition the cost function and thus enhance the computational efficiency. Using this method, the vortex wind analysis can be performed efficiently either in a stand-alone fashion or as an additional step of targeted finescale analysis in the existing radar wind analysis system developed for nowcast applications. The effectiveness and performance of the method are demonstrated by examples of analyzed wind fields for the tornadic mesocyclones observed by operational Doppler radars in Oklahoma on 24 May 2011 and 20 May 2013.
Continuing opera with other means: Opera, Neapolitan song, and popular music among Italian immigrants overseas
Authors: Sorce Keller Marcello
Published: July 2015

The author asks himself how it is that without a specific local or even national connection to Neapolitan song, Naples’ music heritage ‘speaks’ to him, as it speaks to millions of people around the world. Neapolitan song is indeed one of the few local musical traditions that have become truly global. The notions of imagined community, cultural distance, geographic distance, and nostalgia must be summoned and played out against each other if we want to understand the impact that Neapolitan songs had for centuries and, to a certain extent, still have. If opera is the ‘official’ musical representation of Italian unity, Neapolitan songs are the familiar lexicon of the Italian diaspora and have been appropriated by emigrants from every region of Italy. Opera and Neapolitan song share similar characteristics, however. They are both ancient and literate. Their diffusion, in addition, has been facilitated not just by printed scores but by oral transmission as well. Opera composers, not necessarily from Naples, also wrote Neapolitan songs, and famous songs whose authors are uncertain have been attributed to opera composers. Moreover, Neapolitan songs can be performed in two opposite styles (operatic, with orchestral accompaniment) and intimate (an untrained voice accompanied by a guitar) without losing their appeal and their stylistic uniqueness. The author also refers to his personal experience researching the musical heritage of Italian emigrants to Australia, where Neapolitan song has been for a long time a token of belonging.
An Analysis of India’s Export Performance with China
Authors: Singla Surinder Kumar
Published: July 2015

India and China are two rapidly emerging economies in the world. With their high growth rates and huge markets, these two Asian giants have attracted the attention of international business mangers to take a fresh look at the rapidly emerging opportunities in the two countries. Today, India–China relations are conspicuous by the fast rise of their merchandise trade, which has already crossed US$ 42 billion in 2009–2010. China has already become India’s second largest trade partner only after UAE. Besides this, China has also become one of the most favourite destinations for Indian exporters. China’s share in India’s global exports has increased rapidly from just 0.10 per cent in 1990–1991 to 6.47 per cent in 2009–2010. However, this growth of Indian exports to China has not been equally distributed over various commodity groups. In fact, Indian exports to China are mainly dominated by natural resource-based raw materials or semi-manufactured products which are not considered to be healthy from the Indian point of view. Hence, there is an urgent need to add some technologically advanced products in the export basket to China. According to the need of the time, the present study examines the various trends that occurred in growth and structure of Indian exports to China during the last two decades.
Strategic management in the public sector: a rational, political or collaborative approach?
Authors: Favoreu Christophe , Carassus David , Maurel Christophe
Published: July 2015

Although experimented within public organisations for over 30 years, strategic planning and management still raise a number of questions and doubts as to their ability to improve public performance. The purpose of this article is to look into the strategy formulation processes in the public sector and the type of strategic approach that best matches the characteristics of this sector. It sets out to do so by first drawing up a theoretical analysis grid, based on the three main approaches to strategy in the public sector. This is followed by an exploratory case study that brings to light a complex strategic process that combines and alternates rational, collaborative and political decision-making logics, and a planned and incremental development.

Points for practitioners

This research highlights the need to combine different logics and approaches in the strategic control of public organisations: a rational logic, a political logic and a collaborative logic. It underlines, in particular, the importance for public managers to build skills in the development and management of inter-organisational networks and interpersonal relationships. The ability to create interactions between a variety of stakeholders, both internal and external, to mobilise and channel collective intelligence towards the definition and implementation of public projects and policies is a key component of the strategic management of public organisations.
Follow-up calls to next of kin relating to coronial autopsies
Authors: Langlois Neil EI , Smith Kylie
Published: July 2015

It might be expected that follow-up telephone communication with next of kin relating to coronial autopsies would be distressing, particularly when made months or even years after the death. However, our experience has indicated that this is not the case in the majority of calls.