bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving random write performance in homogeneous and heterogeneous erasure-coded drive arrays
Authors: Jeremic Nikolaus , Parzyjegla Helge , Mühl Gero
Published: February 2016

In data storage systems, drive arrays known as RAIDs are often used in order to avoid data loss and to maintain availability in the event of drive failure(s). RAID schemes define various drive array organizations (denoted as RAID levels) that can be used in arrays of hard disk drives (HDDs) and arrays of NAND flash memory solid-state drives (SSDs). For larger drive arrays, using data striping with erasure coding is appealing due to its notably higher space efficiency compared to data replication. However, the main issue of data striping with erasure coding is the performance of random writes smaller than a stripe. This problem is even aggravated if the random access performance characteristics of the deployed device type (HDD or SSD) and device model are not properly considered when choosing the data striping configuration (in particular the stripe unit size).

In this article, we provide an analytical model allowing to predict the random write throughput of homogeneous drive arrays as well as of a heterogeneous drive array with code blocks stored on the faster drives. Based on our model, we develop a method to improve the random write throughput in homogeneous drive arrays (comprising only one device type, e.g., HDDs or SSDs) by adapting the data striping configuration to the used device type and model in relation to the workload. Then, based on our previous work, we describe an organization for heterogeneous drive arrays, which is especially suitable for arrays combining HDDs with SSDs, and permits to further increase the random write throughput by storing data blocks on slower and code blocks on faster drives. Finally, we experimentally evaluate our analytical claims and show that random write throughput can indeed be notably increased in drive arrays that use data striping with erasure coding.
Jenks prize 2015 award citation
Authors: Kaltofen Erich
Published: February 2016

The 2015 Richard D. Jenks Memorial Prize was awarded on October 30, 2015 at the Fields Institute in Toronto during the Major Thematic Program on Computer Algebra to Professor Victor Shoup for NTL: A Library for doing Number Theory.
Computing tropical varieties over fields with valuation using classical standard basis techniques
Authors: Ren Yue
Published: February 2016

In this presentation, we discuss the application of classical Gröbner basis (or standard basis) techniques to algebraic problems in polynomial rings over fields with non-trivial valuation arising in tropical geometry.

The key problem we will study is the computation of a tropical variety, given its ideal in the polynomial ring. All algorithms in this presentation have been implemented in the computer algebra system Singular and are available as part of the official distribution.
Antioxidant and Antiplasmodial Activities of Bergenin and 11‐O‐Galloylbergenin Isolated from Mallotus philippensis
Authors: Khan Hamayun , Amin Hazrat , Ullah Asad , Saba Sumbal , Rafique Jamal , Khan Khalid , Ahmad Nasir , Badshah Syed Lal
Published: February 2016

Two important biologically active compounds were isolated from Mallotus philippensis. The isolated compounds were characterized using spectroanalytical techniques and found to be bergenin (1) and 11-O‐galloylbergenin (2). The in vitro antioxidant and antiplasmodial activities of the isolated compounds were determined. For the antioxidant potential, three standard analytical protocols, namely, DPPH radical scavenging activity (RSA), reducing power assay (RPA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assay, were adopted. The results showed that compound 2 was found to be more potent antioxidant as compared to 1. Fascinatingly, compound 2 displayed better EC50 results as compared to α‐tocopherol while being comparable with ascorbic acid. The antiplasmodial assay data showed that both the compound exhibited good activity against chloroquine sensitive strain of Plasmodium falciparum (D10) and IC50 values were found to be less than 8 μM. The in silico molecular docking analyses were also performed for the determination of binding affinity of the isolated compounds using P. falciparum proteins PfLDH and Pfg27. The results showed that compound 2 has high docking score and binding affinity to both protein receptors as compared to compound 1. The demonstrated biological potentials declared that compound 2 could be the better natural antioxidant and antiplasmodial candidate.
Hematocolpos as a Result of Delayed Treatment of Acute Straddle Injury in an Adolescent Girl
Authors: Hwang Hae Jin , Lim Hyun Wook , Han Young Shin , Choi Jeong In , Kim Min Jeong
Published: February 2016

Accidental genital trauma is most commonly caused by straddle-type injuries and is usually treatable by nonoperative management, and most of the injuries have a good prognosis. When the bleeding occurred due to straddle injury in adolescent girl, experienced gynecological examination and treatment were very important. We experienced a case of straddle injury to the posterior fourchette that caused acute hematocolpos due to delayed adequate treatment with hypotension and acute abdomen in an adolescent girl. This case shows the importance of careful and accurate physical and gynecological examination and adequate and prompt treatment of genital trauma in adolescent girls.
Primary Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Liver in a Patient with Sjogren Syndrome
Authors: Gorodetskiy Vadim , Klapper Wolfram , Probatova Natalya , Vasilyev Vladimir
Published: February 2016

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) has the highest incidence of malignant lymphoproliferative disorders transformation among autoimmune diseases. We present a case of extranodal high grade lymphoma of the liver in a 52-year-old patient with long history of SS. Lymphoma manifested with sharp significant pain in the right hypochondrium, weakness, and profuse night sweats. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan (CT-scan) of the abdomen revealed multiple low density foci with homogeneous structure and clear contours in both lobes of the liver. Histologically, proliferation of medium sized lymphoma cells with round-oval and slightly irregular nuclei with fine chromatin was shown. Immunohistochemical and molecular features of the tumors allowed diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). To exclude secondary liver lesion by non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chest and small pelvis CT-scan, endoscopy of upper and lower gastrointestinal tract and study of bone marrow were performed. After 8 cycles of R-CHOP chemotherapy (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone), the complete remission was achieved, which persists after 45 months of follow-up. Primary hepatic lymphomas are extremely rare, and previously only low-grade hepatic lymphomas have been described in SS. To our knowledge, the patient described here represents the first reported case of DLBCL with primary liver involvement in SS.
Performance Analysis of ZigBee Wireless Networks for AAL through Hybrid Ray Launching and Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Lopez-Iturri Peio , Casino Fran , Aguirre Erik , Azpilicueta Leyre , Falcone Francisco , Solanas Agusti
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a novel hybrid simulation method based on the combination of an in-house developed 3D ray launching algorithm and a collaborative filtering (CF) technique, which will be used to analyze the performance of ZigBee-based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) to enable ambient assisted living (AAL). The combination of Low Definition results obtained by means of a deterministic ray launching method and the application of a CF technique leads to a drastic reduction of the time and computational cost required to obtain accurate simulation results. The paper also reports that this kind of AAL indoor complex scenario with multiple wireless devices needs a thorough and personalized radioplanning analysis as radiopropagation has a strong dependence on the network topology and the specific morphology of the scenario. The wireless channel analysis performed by our hybrid method provides valuable insight into network design phases of complex wireless systems, typical in AAL-oriented environments. Thus, it results in optimizing network deployment, reducing overall interference levels, and increasing the overall system performance in terms of cost reduction, transmission rates, and energy efficiency.
Comparison of Nasopharyngeal Airway Device and Nasal Oxygen Tube in Obese Patients Undergoing Intravenous Anesthesia for Gastroscopy: A Prospective and Randomized Study
Authors: Xiao Qiansong , Yang Yingying , Zhou Yinbin , Guo Yan , Ao Xing , Han Ran , Hu Jiali , Chen Dongfeng , Lan Chunhui
Published: February 2016

Objective. This prospective and randomized study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the nasopharyngeal airway relative to the nasal oxygen tube in obese patients undergoing painless gastroscopy.Materials and Methods. Obese patients (BMI≥28 kg/m2;n=260) were randomly and equally apportioned to the nasopharyngeal airway (Group A) or nasal oxygen tube (Group B) group. Three patients were excluded due to failure of insertion of the nasopharyngeal airway. The duration of endoscopy, anesthetic dose, recovery time, and adverse events were recorded. The satisfaction of the anesthetist, physicians, and patient was scored.Results. The SpO2reduction was significantly less in Group A than in Group B. Use of a respirator for assisted ventilation occurred significantly less in Group A. The groups were similar regarding mean arterial pressure, heart rate, anesthetic dose, duration of gastroscopy, recovery time, and adverse events. Satisfaction of the physician and anesthetist was greater in Group A; the groups were similar in patient satisfaction.Conclusions. Use of the nasopharyngeal airway for obese patients during painless gastroscopy resulted in less SpO2reduction relative to the nasal oxygen tube. Altogether, it is a safe and effective device for obese patients undergoing painless gastroscopy.
Single Low-Density Lipoprotein Apheresis Does Not Improve Vascular Endothelial Function in Chronically Treated Hypercholesterolemic Patients
Authors: Ballard Kevin D. , Mah Eunice , Guo Yi , Bruno Richard S. , Taylor Beth A. , Beam Jo Ellen , Polk Donna M. , Thompson Paul D.
Published: February 2016

Objective. To investigate vascular endothelial function (VEF) responses to a single low-density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis session in hypercholesterolemic patients undergoing chronic treatment.Methods. We measured brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), plasma lipids, vitamin E (α- andγ-tocopherol), markers of oxidative/nitrative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitro-γ-tocopherol (NGT)), and regulators of NO metabolism (arginine (ARG) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)) prior to (Pre) and immediately following (Post) LDL apheresis and at 1, 3, 7, and 14 d Post in 5 hypercholesterolemic patients (52 ± 11 y).Results. Relative to Pre, total cholesterol (7.8±1.5 mmol/L) and LDL-cholesterol (6.2±1.2 mmol/L) were 61% and 70% lower (P<0.01), respectively, at Post and returned to Pre levels at 14 d. Brachial FMD responses (6.9 ± 3.6%) and plasma MDA, ARG, and ADMA concentrations were unaffected by LDL apheresis. Plasmaα-tocopherol,γ-tocopherol, and NGT concentrations were 52–69% lower at Post (P<0.01), andα-tocopherol remained 36% lower at 1 d whereas NGT remained 41% lower at d 3.Conclusions. Acute cholesterol reduction by LDL apheresis does not alter VEF, oxidative stress, or NO homeostasis in patients treated chronically for hypercholesterolemia.
Role of Microvessel Density and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Angiogenesis of Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Chand Rashika , Chandra Harish , Chandra Smita , Verma Sanjiv Kumar
Published: February 2016

Angiogenesis plays an important role in progression of tumor with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) being key proangiogenic factor. It was intended to study angiogenesis in different hematological malignancies by quantifying expression of VEGF and MVD in bone marrow biopsy along with serum VEGF levels and observing its change following therapy. The study included 50 cases of hematological malignancies which were followed for one month after initial therapy along with 30 controls. All of them were subjected to immunostaining by anti-VEGF and factor VIII antibodies on bone marrow biopsy along with the measurement of serum VEGF levels. Significantly higher pretreatment VEGF scores, serum VEGF levels, and MVD were observed in cases as compared to controls (p<0.05). The highest VEGF score and serum VEGF were observed in chronic myeloid leukemia and maximum MVD in Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Significant decrease in serum VEGF levels after treatment was observed in all hematological malignancies except for AML. To conclude angiogenesis plays an important role in pathogenesis of all the hematological malignancies as reflected by increased VEGF expression and MVD in bone marrow biopsy along with increased serum VEGF level. The decrease in serum VEGF level after therapy further supports this view and also lays the importance of anti angiogenic therapy.
Mathematical Modelling and Analysis of the Tumor Treatment Regimens with Pulsed Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy
Authors: Pang Liuyong , Shen Lin , Zhao Zhong
Published: February 2016

To begin with, in this paper, single immunotherapy, single chemotherapy, and mixed treatment are discussed, and sufficient conditions under which tumor cells will be eliminated ultimately are obtained. We analyze the impacts of the least effective concentration and the half-life of the drug on therapeutic results and then find that increasing the least effective concentration or extending the half-life of the drug can achieve better therapeutic effects. In addition, since most types of tumors are resistant to common chemotherapy drugs, we consider the impact of drug resistance on therapeutic results and propose a new mathematical model to explain the cause of the chemotherapeutic failure using single drug. Based on this, in the end, we explore the therapeutic effects of two-drug combination chemotherapy, as well as mixed immunotherapy with combination chemotherapy. Numerical simulations indicate that combination chemotherapy is very effective in controlling tumor growth. In comparison, mixed immunotherapy with combination chemotherapy can achieve a better treatment effect.
Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Traditional Cosmetics Sold in Tunisian Local Markets
Authors: Nouioui Mohamed Anouar , Mahjoubi Salah , Ghorbel Asma , Ben Haj Yahia Marouen , Amira Dorra , Ghorbel Hayet , Hedhili Abderrazek
Published: February 2016

This study was undertaken in order to determine heavy metal contents in twelve (n=12) henna brands and eleven (n=11) kohl products. An analytical test was performed for Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn in henna and kohl products using atomic absorption spectrophotometery. The overall mean concentrations of heavy metals in henna varied between 1.2 and 8.9 μg g−1 for Pb; 0.8 and 18.6 μg g−1 for Cd; 0.5 μg g−1 and 3.3 μg g−1 for Cu; and 3.7 μg g−1 and 90.0 μg g−1 for Zn. As for kohl products, Pb concentrations ranged between 51.1 μg g−1 and 4839.5 μg g−1, Cd concentrations ranged between 1.0 μg g−1 and 158.6 μg g−1, Cu concentrations ranged between 2.5 μg g−1 and 162.5 μg g−1, and Zn concentrations ranged between 0.7 μg g−1 and 185.0 μg g−1. The results of our study revealed that Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn contents in investigated samples were high, making from the prolonged use of such products a potential threat to human health. Therefore, major quality controls are recommended in order to enforce acceptable limits of potential contaminants in cosmetics and good manufacturing practice.
Coleopteran and Lepidopteran Hosts of the Entomopathogenic Genus Cordyceps sensu lato
Authors: Shrestha Bhushan , Tanaka Eiji , Hyun Min Woo , Han Jae-Gu , Kim Chang Sun , Jo Jong Won , Han Sang-Kuk , Oh Junsang , Sung Gi-Ho
Published: February 2016

Entomophthoralean and ascomycetous fungi are the two major groups known to parasitize arthropods in almost every terrestrial habitat of the earth. Within Ascomycota, Cordyceps sensu lato is a large genus with more than 400 spp. described on numerous orders of Arthropoda. Among the hosts of Cordyceps, Coleoptera and Lepidoptera are the two major orders. Out of the estimated 200 Cordyceps spp. recorded on coleopteran and lepidopteran hosts, we have documented 92 spp. based on the available information of their host species. Among coleopteran hosts, Scarabaeidae and Elateridae are the two major families. Similarly, among lepidopterans, Hepialidae is the largest host family. Cordyceps militaris shows the widest host range, extending to 2 orders, 13 families, and 32 spp. We hope such accumulative work will be useful as a quick reference for interested biologists, forest ecologists, biocontrol researchers, and fungal and insect taxonomists to apprehend host range and host specificities of Cordyceps fungi.
Label-Free Detection of Chondroitin Sulphate Proteoglycan 4 by a Polyaniline/Graphene Nanocomposite Functionalized Impedimetric Immunosensor
Authors: Fu JingJing , Shi ZhuanZhuan , Li Man , Wang Yangyang , Yu Ling
Published: February 2016

The chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4), also known as high molecular weight-melanoma associated antigen (HMW-MAA), is a tumor-associated antigen that is expressed in more than 85% of surgically removed melanoma lesions but has restricted distribution in normal tissues. The diagnostic and therapeutic value of CSPG4 drives a need for sensitive and low-cost detection approaches. To this end, we developed a polyaniline/graphene oxide nanocomposite (PANI@GO) that was electrochemically codeposited on indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Glutaraldehyde mediated the covalent immobilization of CSPG4 specific antibody mAbD2.8.5 to construct a CSPG4 immunosensor using cell culture media and cell lysate as samples. The fully assembled impedimetric immunosensor was used to detect CSPG4 in CSPG4-positive cell lines M14/CSPG4 and MV3. No impedance signal changes could be observed from CSPG4-negative cell lines M14 and mAbMk2-23 showing the specificity of the CSPG4-impedimetric immunosensor. This low-cost, simple, and label-free analytical method is an alternative to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry in screening of CSPG4 in complex biological samples.
Contribution of BRCA1 and BRCA2 Germline Mutations to Early Algerian Breast Cancer
Authors: Henouda Sarra , Bensalem Assia , Reggad Rym , Serrar Nedda , Rouabah Leila , Pujol Pascal
Published: February 2016

Breast cancer is the most common female malignancy and the leading cancer mortality cause among Algerian women. Germline mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in patients with early-onset breast cancer have not been clearly identified within the Algerian population. It is necessary to study the BRCA1/2 genes involvement in the Algerian breast cancer occurrence. We performed this study to define germline mutations in BRCA1/2 and their implication in breast cancer among young women from eastern Algeria diagnosed or treated with primary invasive breast cancer at the age of 40 or less who were referred to Anti-Cancer Center of Setif, Algeria. Case series were unselected for family history. Eight distinct pathogenic mutations were identified in eight unrelated families. Three deleterious mutations and one large genomic rearrangement involving deletion of exon 2 were found in BRCA1 gene. In addition, four mutations within the BRCA2 gene and one large genomic rearrangement were identified. Novel mutation was found among Algerian population. Moreover, five variants of uncertain clinical significance and favor polymorphisms were identified. Our data suggest that BRCA1/2 mutations are responsible for a significant proportion of breast cancer in Algerian young women.
A Hybrid Dynamic Programming for Solving Fixed Cost Transportation with Discounted Mechanism
Authors: Ghassemi Tari Farhad
Published: February 2016

The problem of allocating different types of vehicles for transporting a set of products from a manufacturer to its depots/cross docks, in an existing transportation network, to minimize the total transportation costs, is considered. The distribution network involves a heterogeneous fleet of vehicles, with a variable transportation cost and a fixed cost in which a discount mechanism is applied on the fixed part of the transportation costs. It is assumed that the number of available vehicles is limited for some types. A mathematical programming model in the form of the discrete nonlinear optimization model is proposed. A hybrid dynamic programming algorithm is developed for finding the optimal solution. To increase the computational efficiency of the solution algorithm, several concepts and routines, such as the imbedded state routine, surrogate constraint concept, and bounding schemes, are incorporated in the dynamic programming algorithm. A real world case problem is selected and solved by the proposed solution algorithm, and the optimal solution is obtained.
State-of-the-Art Analysis of High-Frequency (Gamma Range) Electroencephalography in Humans
Authors: Nottage Judith F. , Horder Jamie
Published: February 2016

Gamma oscillations (>30 Hz) in the brain are involved in attention, perception and memory. They are altered in various pathological states, as well as by neuropharmaceuticals, so that they are of interest in drug and clinical investigations. However, when the human electroencephalogram is recorded on the scalp, this neural high-frequency signal is buried under a range of other electrical signals such that, without careful handling, recordings of the high-frequency electroencephalogram cannot be considered reliable. The artefacts of concern originate from: power line noise, saccade-associated contraction of the extra-ocular muscles, activity of muscles in the scalp, face and neck, screen refresh artefacts and activity of the muscles associated with blinking. Recent progress in dealing with these artefacts is described, including either noise cancellation or phased noise template subtraction for power line noise, regression or independent component analysis for correcting extra-ocular muscle activity and mathematical modelling for reducing scalp, face and neck muscle activity. If the artefacts are properly addressed, the neural gamma signal can be uncovered.
Fetoscopic versus Open Repair for Spina Bifida Aperta: A Systematic Review of Outcomes
Authors: Joyeux Luc , Engels Alexander C. , Russo Francesca M. , Jimenez Julio , Van Mieghem Tim , De Coppi Paolo , Van Calenbergh Frank , Deprest Jan
Published: February 2016

Objective: To compare outcomes of fetoscopic spina bifida aperta repair (FSBAR) with the results of the open approach (OSBAR) as in the Management Of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS). Methods: This was a systematic comparison of reports on FSBAR with data from the MOMS (n = 78). Inclusion criteria were studies of spina bifida aperta patients who underwent FSBAR and were followed for ≥12 months. Primary outcome was perinatal mortality. Secondary outcomes included operative, maternal, fetal, neonatal and infant outcomes. Results: Out of 16 reports, we included 5 from 2 centers. Due to bias and heterogeneity, analysis was restricted to two overlapping case series (n = 51 and 71). In those, FSBAR was technically different from OSBAR, had comparable perinatal mortality (7.8 vs. 2.6%, p = 0.212) and shunt rate at 12 months (45 vs. 40%, p = 0.619), longer operation time (223 vs. 105 min, p < 0.001), higher preterm prelabor membrane rupture rate (84 vs. 46%, p < 0.001), earlier gestational age at birth (32.9 vs. 34.1 weeks, p = 0.03), higher postnatal reoperation rate (28 vs. 2.56%, p < 0.001) and absence of uterine thinning or dehiscence (0 vs. 36%, p < 0.001). Functional outcomes were not available. Conclusion: FSBAR utilizes a different neurosurgical technique, takes longer to complete, induces more prematurity, requires additional postnatal procedures, yet has a comparable shunt rate and is not associated with uterine thinning or dehiscence. Long-term functional data are awaited.
Cytogenetic Characterization of the TM4 Mouse Sertoli Cell Line. II. Chromosome Microdissection, FISH, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Schmid Michael , Guttenbach Martina , Steinlein Claus , Wanner Gerhard , Houben Andreas
Published: February 2016

The chromosomes and interphase cell nuclei of the permanent mouse Sertoli cell line TM4 were examined by chromosome microdissection, FISH, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The already known marker chromosomes m1-m5 were confirmed, and 2 new large marker chromosomes m6 and m7 were characterized. The minute heterochromatic marker chromosomes m4 and m5 were microdissected and their DNA amplified by DOP-PCR. FISH of this DNA probe on TM4 metaphase chromosomes demonstrated that the m4 and m5 marker chromosomes have derived from the centromeric regions of normal telocentric mouse chromosomes. Ectopic pairing of the m4 and m5 marker chromosomes with the centromeric region of any of the other chromosomes (centromeric associations) was apparent in ∼60% of the metaphases. Scanning electron microscopy revealed DNA-protein bridges connecting the centromeric regions of normal chromosomes and the associated m4 and m5 marker chromosomes. Interphase cell nuclei of TM4 Sertoli cells did not exhibit the characteristic morphology of Sertoli cells in the testes of adult mice as shown by fluorescence microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy.
THC:CBD in Daily Practice: Available Data from UK, Germany and Spain
Authors: Fernández Óscar
Published: February 2016

Background: From the time Sativex (THC:CBD) oromucosal spray first became available in European Union countries in 2010 for the management of treatment-resistant multiple sclerosis (MS) spasticity, data from daily practice have been collected through various projects. Methods: A retrospective registry study and a prospective safety study of THC:CBD oromucosal spray are reported. Results: The most recent analysis of a retrospective registry established in the United Kingdom (UK), Germany and Switzerland, which collected safety data on more than 900 patients, has indicated a positive risk-benefit profile for THC:CBD oromucosal spray during long-term use. Long-term continuation rates were 68% (mean follow-up time 1 year) and the mean dose was 5.4 sprays/day. No new safety concerns were identified, and adverse events of special interest for a cannabis-based medicine were limited. The UK registry has since been closed but remains open in Germany and Switzerland. A prospective safety study undertaken in Spain involved 207 patients from 13 specialized MS centres who had been prescribed THC:CBD oromucosal spray. The findings aligned closely with the UK/German/Swiss registry data in terms of 1-year continuation rates (64.7%), mean daily dose (6.6 sprays/day) and safety profile, including no evidence of addiction, abuse or misuse. Conclusions: The homogeneity between these observational studies supports the interest in THC:CBD oromucosal spray for management of MS spasticity in daily practice.
Pretreatment PET/CT Standardized Uptake Values Play a Role in Predicting Response to Treatment and Survival in Patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sener Dinc Nur , Aydın Kubra , Odabas Hatice , Ercelep Ozlem , Tufan Gulnihal , Seker Mesut , Yasar Nurgul , Aydin Dincer , Yuksel Sinemis , Mert Aslihan , Ozcelik Melike , Korkmaz Taner , Yildiz Ramazan , Aliustaoglu Mehmet , Mayadagli Alpaslan , Dane Faysal , Gumus Mahmut
Published: February 2016

Background: We investigated the role of standardized uptake values (SUVs) of the primary tumor in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients. Patients and Methods: The relationship between SUV and response to treatment was investigated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and the efficient cut-off value for detecting response to treatment was determined. The effects of SUV on response to treatment and survival were investigated. Results: 90 patients with a median age of 58 years (range 39-83 years) were included. Median follow-up was 11 months. The suitable cut-off SUV for determination of response was found to be 10 in ROC analysis. The sensitivity and specificity of this value were 85.7% (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 63-96) and 61.8% (95% CI 49-73) (area under the curve 0.783; p = 0.0001), respectively. The overall objective response rate in patients with involvement above the cut-off value was 93.3% compared to 59.1% in those with involvement below the cut-off value (p < 0.0001). In uni- and multivariate analysis, favorable effects of limited-stage disease on response to treatment were established (p < 0.05). The effect of an SUV higher than the cut-off value on progression-free survival was borderline (p = 0.085). Conclusion: These data may contribute to identifying prognostic disease characteristics and response to treatment.
Female mountain bluebirds (Sialia currucoides) paired to more colourful males produce male-biased broods
Authors: Bonderud Erica S. , Flood Nancy J. , Van Hamme Jonathan D. , Boyda Cameron A. W. , Reudink Matthew W.
Published: February 2016

Sex allocation theory predicts that females should bias the sex ratio of their offspring in response to differences in the reproductive value of sons versus daughters. Consistent with this prediction, females of many species appear to bias offspring sex ratios in response to mate attractiveness and condition. Male mountain bluebirds (Sialia currucoides) display full body UV-blue structural plumage colouration, which is associated with attractiveness, condition, and reproductive success. Over four breeding seasons, we found females paired with more colourful males produced increasingly male-biased broods and provisioned offspring at a higher rate. Surprisingly, however, we also found females with duller plumage and those mated to first-year males produced more male-biased broods. These results provide support for sex allocation in mountain bluebirds and suggest female reproductive decisions may be influenced by the attractiveness of her mate. However, this system is clearly complex and more work is needed to understand the roles of male age and female colouration in the signalling systems of mountain bluebirds.
Age and growth of the red-belied lizard, Darevskia parvula
Authors: Bülbül Ufuk , Kurnaz Muammer , Eroğlu Ali İhsan , Koç Halime , Kutrup Bilal
Published: February 2016

In the present study, we investigated potential effects of some environmental climatic factors on life-history traits of two Darevskia parvula populations located at different elevation sites and evaluated age, body size, SSD and growth rate results in these lizards. The age at maturity and longevity were found to be similar in both populations. Males of the highland population had significantly larger snout-vent length and older age than those of the lowland population. Although the mean ages of females were not significantly different between the two populations, the highland population had significantly larger snout-vent length than the lowland population. Considering all individuals (both males and females), we found that specimens from the population in the higher-elevation site had significantly larger snout-vent length and older age than those of the lower-elevation site. A low level of male-biased sexual size dimorphism was observed in both populations. The growth coefficient was lower in the high-elevation site than the lower elevation site. Growth rates were not significantly different between the populations. Our preliminary results indicate that although our studied populations were located at different elevation sites and had distinct climate, longevity, age at sexual maturity and growth rate results were similar. This may be a reason of the lower male-biased sexual size dimorphism in both populations.
Revision and phylogeny of the genus Balgus Fleutiaux, 1920 (Coleoptera, Elateridae, Thylacosterninae)
Authors: BARBOSA FELIPE FRANCISCO
Published: February 2016

The genus Balgus Fleutiaux 1920 was currently comprised of nine species and can be easily distinguished from other Thylacosterninae by the presence of tubercles on the pronotal disk. In this paper a taxonomic revision and a reconstruction of the phylogeny of the genus were performed. Morphological data were analyzed using maximum parsimony (MP) and by Bayesian inference (BI). For BI the Mkv model was used. The genus Balgus and eight of the nine species were redescribed. The subspecies B. schnusei cayennensis Chassain, 2003 was considered a synonym of B. schnusei (Heller, 1914), and the genus was considered monophyletic. An identification key to all species of the genus was generated.
A new species of Eidmanacris Chopard, 1956, with notes on its distribution in Brazilian caves (Phalangopsidae, Luzarinae)
Authors: BOLFARINI MARCIO P.
Published: February 2016

The genus Eidmanacris comprises 19 species distributed through Brazil, Bolivia ad Paraguay. In Brazil, the genus has a broad distribution, but its occurrence in Brazilian caves is poorly known; the only species recorded is E. alboannulata for the cave “Gruta da Toca”, Itirapina municipality, São Paulo State. In this study I describe a species, E. lencionii Bolfarini, n. sp., with a discussion on its distribution in Brazilian caves, and its relation with the hypogean environment. The type material is deposited in the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo (MZSP) and the Laboratório de Estudos Subterrâneos da Universidade Federal de São Carlos (LES/UFSCar).
Molisan cuisine (names of dishes) as an example of multiculturalism and multilingualism
Authors: Słabińska Adrianna
Published: February 2016

Molisan cuisine (names of dishes) as an example of multiculturalism and multilingualismToday Croats can be found living in many parts of the world. The process of Slavic migrations started in the 7th. Diasporas can be found in Austria, Slovakia, Romania, Czech Republic (Moravia and nowadays Prague), Serbia, Italy, even across the oceans in the USA, South America, RSA and Australia. The Croatian minority in Molise is the smallest Croatian minority in the world. Croatian is spoken there by about 2000 to 2400 people in three isolated mountain communities. They settled in villages, Kruč, Mundimitr and Filić possibly between the 14th and 15th century. Several Turkish invasions took place during this period, so Croats were forced to hide from the Sultan’s armies and they found refuge on the Apennine Peninsula. The country of Croatia, occupied with its battle against the infidels, has forgotten about its fellow countrymen, who had been living in the region of Molis, for a long time. In every day Croatian speech one can hear multiple loan-words. A particular problem can occur when writing some names of dishes which have been passed down but orally only. Molisan-Croatian cuisine and culinary names are part of Croatian cuisine that was created during the time of the Croatian Diaspora. Kuchnia molizańska (nazwy potraw) jako przykład wielokulturowości i wielojęzycznościObecnie Chorwaci żyją na całym świecie. Proces migracji Słowian rozpoczął się już w VII wieku. Ich diaspory możemy odszukać w Austrii, Słowacji, Rumunii, Czechach (na Morawach i w obecnej Pradze) i Serbii, Włoszech, a nawet za oceanem Atlantyckim w USA, południowej Ameryce, RPA i Australii. Najmniejszą chorwacką mniejszością narodową są Molizianie. Językiem chorwackim posługuje się od 2 do 2,4 tysięcy ludzi w trzech odizolowanych społecznościach. Początek osiedlenia się we wsiach: Kruču, Mundimitrze i Filiću określa się na XV–XVI wiek. Okres ten obfituje w najazdy tureckie, kiedy to Chorwaci ukryli się przed armią sułtańską i znaleźli schronienie na Półwyspie Apenińskim. Chorwacja okupowana przez Turków zapomniała o swoich rodakach, którzy żyli w regionie Molise przez dłuższy czas. Język chorwacki pojawia się w mowie potocznej mieszkańców, szczególnie w zapożyczeniach. Szczególnym problemem jest określenie nazw kilku dań, które dotychczas funkcjonowały tylko ustnie. Chorwackomolizańska kuchnia oraz jej nazwy kulinarne są częścią kuchni chorwackiej, która została utworzona w czasach diaspory.
„Alfurkan tatarski” Piotra Czyżewskiego – opis zabytku (grafia z elementami fonetyki)
Authors: Luto-Kamińska Anetta
Published: February 2016

Alfurkan tatarski by Piotr Czyżewski – description of the old print (graphy with some phonetic aspects) This article discusses Alfurkan tatarski [Tartar Al Furqan] published by Piotr Czyżewski in 1617, which probably is the second expanded edition of the work. Based upon analysis of two copies of this early printing work, it presents some graphic features of the book. Phonetic and dialectal phenomena, which allow us to draw conclusions about the nature of the author’s language and its regional features, remain in close association with some of the print’s graphic elements. Alfurkan tatarski Piotra Czyżewskiego – opis zabytku (grafia z elementami fonetyki)W artykule opisuje się Alfurkan tatarski Piotra Czyżewskiego z 1617 roku, który jest najprawdopodobniej drugim, poszerzonym wydaniem utworu. Na podstawie analizy dwóch egzemplarzy zabytku przedstawiono cechy grafii druku. W ścisłym związku z niektórymi elementami grafii pozostają zagadnienia fonetyczne oraz dialektalne, które umożliwiają formułowanie wniosków na temat języka autora wraz z jego cechami regionalnymi.
Correlations of Multispectral Infrared Indicators and Applications in the Analysis of Developing Convective Clouds
Authors: Wu Qiong , Wang Hong-Qing , Zhuang Yi-Zhou , Lin Yin-Jing , Zhang Yan , Ding Sai-Sai
Published: February 2016

Three infrared (IR) indicators were included in this study: the 10.8-μm brightness temperature (BT10.8), the BT difference between 12.0 and 10.8 μm (BTD12.0–10.8), and the BT difference between 6.7 and 10.8 μm (BTD6.7–10.8). Correlations among these IR indicators were investigated using MTSAT-1R images for summer 2007 over East Asia. Temporal, spatial, and numerical frequency distributions were used to represent the correlations. The results showed that large BTD12.0–10.8 values can be observed in the growth of cumulus congestus and associated with the boundary of different terrain where convection was more likely to generate and develop. The results also showed that numerical correlation between any two IR indicators could be expressed by two-dimensional histograms (HT2D). Because of differences in the tropopause heights and in the temperature and water vapor fields, the shapes of the HT2Ds varied with latitude and the type of underlying surface. After carefully analyzing the correlations among the IR indicators, a conceptual model of the convection life cycle was constructed according to these HT2Ds. A new cloud convection index (CCI) was defined with the combination of BTD12.0–10.8 and BTD6.7–10.8 on the basis of the conceptual model. The preliminary test results demonstrated that CCI could effectively identify convective clouds. CCI value and its time trend could reflect the growth or decline of convective clouds.
Advanced Residuals Analysis for Determining the Number of PARAFAC Components in Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: Cuss Chad W. , Guéguen Céline , Andersson Per , Porcelli Don , Maximov Trofim , Kutscher Liselott
Published: February 2016

Parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) has facilitated an explosion in research connecting the fluorescence properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) to its functions and biogeochemical cycling in natural and engineered systems. However, the validation of robust PARAFAC models using split-half analysis requires an oft unrealistically large number (hundreds to thousands) of excitation–emission matrices (EEMs), and models with too few components may not adequately describe differences between DOM. This study used self-organizing maps (SOM) and comparing changes in residuals with the effects of adding components to estimate the number of PARAFAC components in DOM from two data sets: MS (110 EEMs from nine leaf leachates and headwaters) and LR (64 EEMs from the Lena River). Clustering by SOM demonstrated that peaks clearly persisted in model residuals after validation by split-half analysis. Plotting the changes to residuals was an effective method for visualizing the removal of fluorophore-like fluorescence caused by increasing the number of PARAFAC components. Extracting additional PARAFAC components via residuals analysis increased the proportion of correctly identified size-fractionated leaf leachates from 56.0 ± 0.8 to 75.2 ± 0.9%, and from 51.7 ± 1.4 to 92.9 ± 0.0% for whole leachates. Model overfitting was assessed by considering the correlations between components, and their distributions amongst samples. Advanced residuals analysis improved the ability of PARAFAC to resolve the variation in DOM fluorescence, and presents an enhanced validation approach for assessing the number of components that can be used to supplement the potentially misleading results of split-half analysis.
The Ecumenical Significance of Eucharistic Conversion
Authors: Daly Robert J. , Macy Gary , Raitt Jill
Published: February 2016

What is the relationship between the conversion (1) of the elements into the (real) Body of Christ and (2) of the participants into the (mystical) Body of Christ? When we bring this and related questions to the early church, the Middle Ages, and the Reformation, we find that the conversion of the eucharistic elements has indeed been understood by unimpeachably sincere Christians in a broad variety of ways. In contrast, there has been a remarkably constant convergence regarding the all-importance of the conversion of the participants. Were this taken as the starting point, we might discover that we have much more ecumenical unity regarding the Eucharist than is usually thought to be the case.
Description of a Multihospital Process to Develop a Care Path for the Child With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: McMahon Leslie W. , Sealing Patricia A. , Mahoney D.H. , Bowman W. Paul , Sandler Eric
Published: February 2016

This article describes the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) collaborative group process used to create a multihospital care path for the child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and presents strategies for implementation and future direction. Although most children in the United States with cancer are treated according to National Cancer Institute-sponsored comprehensive protocols, there is a wide variation in the implementation of protocols by physicians and hospitals. The development of this care path was based on evidence from the literature, review of practice patterns, expert opinion, and group participant consensus building. The resulting 4-day care path was organized into six categories of care (e.g., assessment practices, diagnostic tests, teaching, and discharge planning). Discharge criteria are stated at the beginning of the care path to emphasize the planning process immediately on admission. Clinical outcomes, skill and knowledge outcomes for the parent and child, and home assessment considerations are also included. Strategies to create change and gain support of various stakeholders toward implementation of the care path are presented. The strength of the resulting care path is possible in large part because the multihospital group process brought professionals from around the country together to discuss, analyze, and reach consensus on the practices related to the child with ALL. The group process enabled the development of a care path that goes beyond a traditional care path developed by a single institution.
An alternative view of a social medium: Communication as coordinating and medium-making activity
Authors: Paterno David
Published: February 2016

Over the past decade, ‘social media’ have been transformed from outposts of the cyber world to hallmarks of the digital era. Today, high-tech platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are generally accepted as devices which extend and facilitate communication between people both near and far. In this article, I present an excerpt from a recent visual ethnography into one community’s use of a decidedly low-tech communication system. The current study suggests that a medium, in this case one based upon modest technological bases, is inextricably tied to socially patterned relationships of meaning and action. Moreover, the study indicates that these relationships are structured by communication. A medium, then, is a technology translated through its placement within a communication system. One implication for this observation is that neither a medium – nor the technology upon which it is based – is a preformed physical conduit awaiting information or messages for transmission. The article suggests that all media are social and that much is learned about the basic nature of communication by investigating the communicational translation of a technology into a medium.
Featured Article: Genotation: Actionable knowledge for the scientific reader
Authors: Nagahawatte Panduka , Willis Ethan , Sakauye Mark , Jose Rony , Chen Hao , Davis Robert L
Published: February 2016

We present an article viewer application that allows a scientific reader to easily discover and share knowledge by linking genomics-related concepts to knowledge of disparate biomedical databases. High-throughput data streams generated by technical advancements have contributed to scientific knowledge discovery at an unprecedented rate. Biomedical Informaticists have created a diverse set of databases to store and retrieve the discovered knowledge. The diversity and abundance of such resources present biomedical researchers a challenge with knowledge discovery. These challenges highlight a need for a better informatics solution. We use a text mining algorithm, Genomine, to identify gene symbols from the text of a journal article. The identified symbols are supplemented with information from the GenoDB knowledgebase. Self-updating GenoDB contains information from NCBI Gene, Clinvar, Medgen, dbSNP, KEGG, PharmGKB, Uniprot, and Hugo Gene databases. The journal viewer is a web application accessible via a web browser. The features described herein are accessible on www.genotation.org . The Genomine algorithm identifies gene symbols with an accuracy shown by .65 F-Score. GenoDB currently contains information regarding 59,905 gene symbols, 5633 drug–gene relationships, 5981 gene–disease relationships, and 713 pathways. This application provides scientific readers with actionable knowledge related to concepts of a manuscript. The reader will be able to save and share supplements to be visualized in a graphical manner. This provides convenient access to details of complex biological phenomena, enabling biomedical researchers to generate novel hypothesis to further our knowledge in human health. This manuscript presents a novel application that integrates genomic, proteomic, and pharmacogenomic information to supplement content of a biomedical manuscript and enable readers to automatically discover actionable knowledge.
Exome sequencing reveals recurrent germ line variants in patients with familial Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Roccaro Aldo M. , Sacco Antonio , Shi Jiantao , Chiarini Marco , Perilla-Glen Adriana , Manier Salomon , Glavey Siobhan , Aljawai Yosra , Mishima Yuji , Kawano Yawara , Moschetta Michele , Correll Mick , Improgo Ma. Reina , Brown Jennifer R. , Imberti Luisa , Rossi Giuseppe , Castillo Jorge J. , Treon Steven P. , Freedman Matthew L. , Van Allen Eliezer M. , Hide Winston , Hiller Elaine , Rainville Irene , Ghobrial Irene M.
Published: February 2016

Key Points

LAPTM5 c403t and HCLS1g496a are potentially novel contributors for the genetic predisposition to familial WM. LAPTM5 c403t and HCLS1g496a represent possible candidates for screening in familial WM.