bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coexpression of SFRP1 and WIF1 as a Prognostic Predictor of Favorable Outcomes in Patients with Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Shiyong , Zhong XiaoMing , Gao Jun , Song Rongfeng , Wu Hongyu , Zi Shuming , Yang Shijie , Du Peng , Cui Long , Yang Chun , Li Zikang
Published: May 2014

Colorectal tumorigenesis is ascribed to the activity of Wnt signaling pathway in a ligand-independent manner mainly through APC and CTNNB1 gene mutations and in a ligand-dependent manner through low expression of Wnt inhibitors such as WNT inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1) and secreted frizzled related protein 1 (SFRP1). In this study we found that WIF1 protein expression was increased and SFRP1 was decreased significantly in CRC tissue versus normal tissue, and high expression of WIF1 was associated with big tumor diameters and deep invasion, and loss of SFRP1 expression was associated with the left lesion site, deep invasion, and high TNM stage. Among the four expression patterns (WIF+/SFRP1+, WIF+/SFRP1−, WIF−/SFRP1+, and WIF−/SFRP1−) only coexpression of WIF1 and SFRP1 (WIF+/SFRP1+) was associated with favorable overall survival, together with low TNM stage, as an independent prognostic factor as shown in a multivariate survival model. The results indicated that WIF1 seemed to play an oncogenic role, while SFRP1 seemed to play an oncosuppressive role although both of them are secreted Wnt antagonists. Coexpression of SFRP1 and WIF1, rather than SFRP1 or WIF1 alone, could be used, together with low TNM stage, as a prognostic predictor of favorable outcomes in CRC.
Anti-HMGB1 Neutralizing Antibody Ameliorates Neutrophilic Airway Inflammation by Suppressing Dendritic Cell-Mediated Th17 Polarization
Authors: Zhang Fang , Huang Gang , Hu Bo , Fang Li-Ping , Cao E-Hong , Xin Xiao-Feng , Song Yong , Shi Yi
Published: May 2014

We demonstrate that high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) directs Th17 skewing by regulating dendritic cell (DC) function. First, ourin vitrostudies reveal that recombinant HMGB1 (rHMGB1) activates myeloid DCs to produce IL-23in vitro, and rHMGB1-activated DCs prime naïve lymphocytes to produce the Th17 cytokine IL-17A. Second, we demonstrate that anti-HMGB1 neutralizing antibody attenuates HMGB1 expression, neutrophilic inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and Th17-related cytokine secretionin vivoby using a murine model of neutrophilic asthma induced by ovalbumin (OVA) plus lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Furthermore, anti-HMGB1 neutralizing antibody decreases the number of Th17 cells in lung cells and suppresses the production of IL-23 by lung CD11C+APCs. Finally, we show that intranasal adoptive transfer of rHMGB1-activated DCs was sufficient to restore lung neutrophilic inflammation and the Th17 response in a DC-driven model of asthma, whereas the transfer of rHMGB1 plus anti-HMGB1-treated mDCs significantly reduced these inflammation phenotypes. These data suggest, for the first time, that HMGB1 drives the DC-polarized Th17-type response in allergic lung inflammation and that blocking HMGB1 may benefit the attenuation of neutrophilic airway inflammation in asthma.
A NovelIn VitroProtocol for Inducing Direct Somatic Embryogenesis inPhalaenopsis aphroditewithout Taking Explants
Authors: Feng Jia-Hua , Chen Jen-Tsung
Published: May 2014

An alternativein vitroprotocol for embryo induction directly from intact living seedlings ofPhalaenopsis aphroditesubspeciesformosanawas established in this study. Without the supplementation of plant growth regulators (PGRs), no embryos were obtained from all the seedlings when cultured on the solid medium. In contrast, embryos formed from the seedlings on the 2-layer medium and the 2-step culture system without the use of PGRs. It was found that the age of the seedlings affected embryo induction. The 2-month-old seedlings typically had higher embryogenic responses when compared with the 4-month-old seedlings in the 2-layer medium or 2-step system. For the 2-month-old seedlings, 1 mg/L TDZ resulted in the highest number of embryos at the distal site of the shoot. However, on the leaves’ surface, 0.5 mg/L TDZ induced the highest number of embryos. When the 2-month-old seedlings were cultured using the 2-step method at 1 mg/L of TDZ, the highest embryogenic response was obtained, with an average of 44 embryos formed on each seedling. These adventitious embryos were able to convert into plantlets in a PGR-free 1/2 MS medium, and the plantlets had normal morphology and growth.
Behavior of a Competitive System of Second-Order Difference Equations
Authors: Din Q. , Ibrahim T. F. , Khan K. A.
Published: May 2014

We study the boundedness and persistence, existence, and uniqueness of positive equilibrium, local and global behavior of positive equilibrium point, and rate of convergence of positive solutions of the following system of rational difference equations:xn+1=(α1+β1xn-1)/(a1+b1yn),yn+1=(α2+β2yn-1)/(a2+b2xn), where the parametersαi,βi,ai, andbifori∈{1,2}and initial conditionsx0,x-1,y0, andy-1are positive real numbers. Some numerical examples are given to verify our theoretical results.
Existence of Resonance Stability of Triangular Equilibrium Points in Circular Case of the Planar Elliptical Restricted Three-Body Problem under the Oblate and Radiating Primaries around the Binary System
Authors: Narayan A. , Shrivastava Amit
Published: May 2014

This paper analyzes the existence of resonance stability of the triangular equilibrium points of the planar elliptical restricted three-body problem when both the primaries are oblate spheroid as well as the source of radiation under the particular case, whene=0. We have derived Hamiltonian function describing the motion of infinitesimal mass in the neighborhood of the triangular equilibrium solutions taken as a convergent series. Hamiltonian function for the system has been derived and also expanded in powers of the generalized components of momenta. We have used canonical transformation to make the Hamiltonian function independent of true anomaly. The most interesting and distinguishable results of this study are establishing the relation for determining the range of stability at and near the resonanceω2=1/2around the binary system.
A Quaternized Polysulfone Membrane for Zinc-Bromine Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Li Mingqiang , Su Hang , Qiu Qinggang , Zhao Guang , Sun Yu , Song Wenjun
Published: May 2014

A quaternized polysulfone (QNPSU) composite membrane is fabricated for zinc-bromine redox flow battery. The structure of the membrane is examined by FT-IR spectra and SEM. The conductivity of the membrane is tested by electrochemical analyzer. After a zinc-bromine battery with this composite membrane is operated at different voltage while charging and at different current while discharging to examine the performance of the membrane, it is found that the discharge voltage was 0.9672 V and the power density was 6 mW/cm2at a current of 0.1 A, which indicated that the novel composite membrane is a promising material for the flow battery.
Association of Myeloid Cells of Triggering Receptor-1 with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in BALB/c Mice with Sepsis
Authors: Zhou Gaosheng , Ye Lijun , Zhang Liang , Zhang Liangqing , Zhang Yuanli , Deng Liehua , Yao Huaguo
Published: May 2014

Objective. To investigate the correlation between TREM-1 and LPS-induced left ventricular systolic dysfunction in BALB/c mice.Methods. Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into 3 groups: LPS, LPS/TREM-1, and control groups which were injected intraperitoneally with 25 mg/kg LPS, 5 μg TREM-1mAb 1 h after LPS challenge, and sterilized normal saline, respectively. Left ventricular systolic function was monitored by echocardiography at 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h. Meanwhile, TNF-α, IL-1β, and sTREM-1 in serum and myocardium were determined by ELISA or real-time PCR; at last left ventricles were taken for light microscopy examination.Results. FS and EF in LPS/mAbTREM-1 group, significantly declined compared with LPS and control group at 12 h, were accompanied with a markedly increase in serum IL-1β(at 6 h) and sTREM-1 (at 12 h and 24 h) expression. Myocardium TNF-α(at 6 h and 24 h) and sTREM-1 (at 6 h) were significantly higher in LPS/mAbTrem-1-treated mice than in time-matched LPS-treated mice; meanwhile myocardium TNF-αmRNA were markedly increased in comparison with LPS-treated or saline-treated mice at 24 h. Besides, mAbTREM-1 aggravated LPS-induced myocardial damage was observed.Conclusions. Our results suggest that TREM-1 is significantly associated with LPS-induced left ventricular systolic dysfunction in BALB/c mice.
The Multiple Roles of EG-VEGF/PROK1 in Normal and Pathological Placental Angiogenesis
Authors: Alfaidy Nadia , Hoffmann Pascale , Boufettal Houssine , Samouh Naima , Aboussaouira Touria , Benharouga Mohamed , Feige Jean-Jacques , Brouillet Sophie
Published: May 2014

Placentation is associated with several steps of vascular adaptations throughout pregnancy. These vascular changes occur both on the maternal and fetal sides, consisting of maternal uterine spiral arteries remodeling and placental vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, respectively. Placental angiogenesis is a pivotal process for efficient fetomaternal exchanges and placental development. This process is finely controlled throughout pregnancy, and it involves ubiquitous and pregnancy-specific angiogenic factors. In the last decade, endocrine gland derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF), also called prokineticin 1 (PROK1), has emerged as specific placental angiogenic factor that controls many aspects of normal and pathological placental angiogenesis such as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTD), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and preeclampsia (PE). This review recapitulates EG-VEGF mediated-angiogenesis within the placenta and at the fetomaternal interface and proposes that its deregulation might contribute to the pathogenesis of several placental diseases including FGR and PE. More importantly this paper argues for EG-VEGF clinical relevance as a potential biomarker of the onset of pregnancy pathologies and discusses its potential usefulness for future therapeutic directions.
Interaction of Apoptotic Cells with Macrophages Upregulates COX-2/PGE2and HGF Expression via a Positive Feedback Loop
Authors: Byun Ji Yeon , Youn Young-So , Lee Ye-Ji , Choi Youn-Hee , Woo So-Yeon , Kang Jihee Lee
Published: May 2014

Recognition of apoptotic cells by macrophages is crucial for resolution of inflammation, immune tolerance, and tissue repair. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) play important roles in the tissue repair process. We investigated the characteristics of macrophage COX-2 and PGE2expression mediated by apoptotic cells and then determined how macrophages exposed to apoptotic cellsin vitroandin vivoorchestrate the interaction between COX-2/PGE2and HGF signaling pathways. Exposure of RAW 264.7 cells and primary peritoneal macrophages to apoptotic cells resulted in induction of COX-2 and PGE2. The COX-2 inhibitor NS-398 suppressed apoptotic cell-induced PGE2production. Both NS-398 and COX-2-siRNA, as well as the PGE2receptor EP2 antagonist, blocked HGF expression in response to apoptotic cells. In addition, the HGF receptor antagonist suppressed increases in COX-2 and PGE2induction. Thein vivorelevance of the interaction between the COX-2/PGE2and HGF pathways through a positive feedback loop was shown in cultured alveolar macrophages followingin vivoexposure of bleomycin-stimulated lungs to apoptotic cells. Our results demonstrate that upregulation of the COX-2/PGE2and HGF in macrophages following exposure to apoptotic cells represents a mechanism for mediating the anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic consequences of apoptotic cell recognition.
Existence and Multiple Positive Solutions for Boundary Value Problem of Fractional Differential Equation withp-Laplacian Operator
Authors: Jiang Min , Zhong Shouming
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the existence, multiplicity, nonexistence, and uniqueness of positive solutions to a kind of two-point boundary value problem for nonlinear fractional differential equations withp-Laplacian operator. By using fixed point techniques combining with partially ordered structure of Banach space, we establish some criteria for existence and uniqueness of positive solution of fractional differential equations withp-Laplacian operator in terms of different value of parameter. In particular, the dependence of positive solution on the parameter was obtained. Finally, several illustrative examples are given to support the obtained new results. The study of illustrative examples shows that the obtained results are applicable.
An Intelligent Fault Detection Method of a Photovoltaic Module Array Using Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chao Kuei-Hsiang , Chen Pi-Yun , Wang Meng-Hui , Chen Chao-Ting
Published: May 2014

This study developed a fault diagnosis meter based on a ZigBee wireless sensor network (WSN) for photovoltaic power generation systems. First, the Solar Pro software was used to simulate the 9-series, 2-parallel photovoltaic module array formed with the Sharp NT-R5E3E photovoltaic module as well as record the power generation data of the photovoltaic module array at different levels of solar radiation, module temperature, and fault conditions. The derived data were used to establish the weights of the extension neural network (ENN). The fault diagnosis in the photovoltaic power generation system required extracting the system's power generation data and real-time solar radiation and module temperatures; this study thus developed an acquisition circuit for measuring these characteristic values. This study implemented extension neural network theory using a PIC single chip microcontroller and incorporated the ZigBee wireless sensor network module to construct a portable fault diagnosis meter to assess the photovoltaic power generation system. The experimental results showed that the proposed portable fault diagnosis meter based on the extension neural network for the photovoltaic power generation system possessed a high level of accuracy in fault identification.
JTT-130, a Novel Intestine-Specific Inhibitor of Microsomal Triglyceride Transfer Protein, Reduces Food Preference for Fat
Authors: Mera Yasuko , Hata Takahiro , Ishii Yukihito , Tomimoto Daisuke , Kawai Takashi , Ohta Takeshi , Kakutani Makoto
Published: May 2014

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is involved in the assembly and secretion of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins from enterocytes and hepatocytes. JTT-130 is a novel intestine-specific MTP inhibitor, which has been shown to be useful in the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia, obesity, and diabetes. JTT-130 has also been shown to suppress food intake in a dietary fat-dependent manner in rats. However, whether JTT-130 enables changes in food preference and nutrient consumption remains to be determined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of JTT-130 on food preference in rat under free access to two different diets containing 3.3% fat (low-fat diet, LF diet) and 35% fat (high-fat diet, HF diet). JTT-130 decreased HF diet intake and increased LF diet intake, resulting in a change in ratio of caloric intake from LF and HF diets to total caloric intake. In addition, macronutrient analysis revealed that JTT-130 did not affect carbohydrate consumption but significantly decreased fat consumption (P<0.01). These findings suggest that JTT-130 not only inhibits fat absorption, but also suppresses food intake and specifically reduces food preference for fat. Therefore, JTT-130 is expected to provide a new option for the prevention and treatment of obesity and obesity-related metabolic disorders.
A Novel Data-Driven Fault Diagnosis Algorithm Using Multivariate Dynamic Time Warping Measure
Authors: Mei Jiangyuan , Hou Jian , Karimi Hamid Reza , Huang Jiarao
Published: May 2014

Process monitoring and fault diagnosis (PM-FD) has been an active research field since it plays important roles in many industrial applications. In this paper, we present a novel data-driven fault diagnosis algorithm which is based on the multivariate dynamic time warping measure. First of all, we propose a Mahalanobis distance based dynamic time warping measure which can compute the similarity of multivariate time series (MTS) efficiently and accurately. Then, a PM-FD framework which consists of data preprocessing, metric learning, MTS pieces building, and MTS classification is presented. After that, we conduct experiments on industrial benchmark of Tennessee Eastman (TE) process. The experimental results demonstrate the improved performance of the proposed algorithm when compared with other classical PM-FD classical methods.
Exact Penalization and Necessary Optimality Conditions for Multiobjective Optimization Problems with Equilibrium Constraints
Authors: Zhu Shengkun , Li Shengjie
Published: May 2014

A calmness condition for a general multiobjective optimization problem with equilibrium constraints is proposed. Some exact penalization properties for two classes of multiobjective penalty problems are established and shown to be equivalent to the calmness condition. Subsequently, a Mordukhovich stationary necessary optimality condition based on the exact penalization results is obtained. Moreover, some applications to a multiobjective optimization problem with complementarity constraints and a multiobjective optimization problem with weak vector variational inequality constraints are given.
Optical Characterization of Silver Nanorod Thin Films Grown Using Oblique Angle Deposition
Authors: Benson Michael , Shah Piyush , Marciniak Michael , Sarangan Andrew , Urbas Augustine
Published: May 2014

Nanorods are metamaterial structures that have been shown to have wide application, ranging from biomedical uses to photovoltaic materials. These materials have unique optical characteristics. In this paper, two silver (Ag) nanorod thin‐film samples are created using Glancing Angle Deposition (GLAD) at both near‐room temperature (~300 K) and cryogenic
temperature (~100 K). Generalized ellipsometry is used to measure the optical constants of the samples. The strong difference between the optical constants of the constituent materials and those of these thin films shows that the characteristics of the samples are due to how their metamaterial structures are defined. The principle optical axes of the films align well with the morphological characteristics of the nanostructures. The axis with the greatest index of refraction remains aligned to the principle axes but shifts orientation with respect to morphological characteristics between samples. Experimental results show differences
in both magnitude and characteristics of the nanorod indexes. Reflectance and transmittance measurements are performed to extract absorptance data. The room temperature deposited sample shows a higher overall absorptance, while the cryogenic sample shows a
clear orientation‐dependent absorptance. Polarization data is analyzed to show that the 100 K thin film exhibits polarization‐dependent absorptance, while the 300 K sample’s absorptance has a strong orientation dependence.
Terminal Satisfiability in GSTE
Authors: Xu Yongsheng , Yang Guowu , Chang Zhengwei , Zheng Desheng , Guo Wensheng
Published: May 2014

Generalized symbolic trajectory evaluation(GSTE) is an extension of symbolic trajectory evaluation (STE) and a method of model checking. GSTE specifications are given as assertion graphs. There are four efficient methods to verify whether a circuit model obeys an assertion graph in GSTE, Model Checking Strong Satisfiability (SMC), Model Checking Normal Satisfiability (NMC), Model Checking Fair Satisfiability (FMC), and Model Checking Terminal Satisfiability (TMC). SMC, NMC, and FMC have been proved and applied in industry, but TMC has not. This paper gives a six-tuple definition and presents a new algorithm for TMC. Based on these, we prove that our algorithm is sound and complete. It solves the SMC’s limitation (resulting in false negative) without extending from finite specification to infinite specification. At last, a case of using TMC to verify a realistic hardware circuit round-robin arbiter is achieved. Avoiding verifying the undesired paths which are not related to the specifications, TMC makes it possible to reduce the computational complexity, and the experimental results suggest that the time cost by SMC is 3.14× with TMC in the case.
Existence of Solution via Integral Inequality of Volterra-Fredholm Neutral Functional Integrodifferential Equations with Infinite Delay
Authors: Kucche Kishor D. , Dhakne Machindra B.
Published: May 2014

In this work we study existence results for mixed Volterra-Fredholm neutral functional integrodifferential equations with infinite delay in Banach spaces. To obtain a priori bounds of solutions required in Krasnoselski-Schaefer type fixed point theorem, we have used an integral inequality established by B. G. Pachpatte. The variants for obtained results are given. An example is considered to illustrate the obtained results.
Enhanced Blood Compatibility of Metallocene Polyethylene Subjected to Hydrochloric Acid Treatment for Cardiovascular Implants
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Mohandas Hemanth , Sivakumar Gunalan , Kasi Palaniappan , Sudheer Theertha , Avineri Veetil Sruthi , Murugesan Selvakumar , Supriyanto Eko
Published: May 2014

Blood compatibility of metallocene polyethylene (mPE) was investigated after modifying the surface using hydrochloric acid. Contact angle of the mPE exposed to HCl poses a decrease in its value which indicates increasing wettability and better blood compatibility. Surface of mPE analyzed by using FTIR revealed no significant changes in its functional groups after treatment. Furthermore, scanning electron microscope images supported the increasing wettability through the modifications like pit formations and etching on the acid rendered surface. To evaluate the effect of acid treatment on the coagulation cascade, prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were measured. Both PT and APTT were delayed significantly (P<0.05) after 60 min exposure implying improved blood compatibility of the surfaces. Hemolysis assay of the treated surface showed a remarkable decrease in the percentage of lysis of red blood cells when compared with untreated surface. Moreover, platelet adhesion assay demonstrated that HCl exposed surfaces deter the attachment of platelets and thereby reduce the chances of activation of blood coagulation cascade. These results confirmed the enhanced blood compatibility of mPE after HCl exposure which can be utilized for cardiovascular implants like artificial vascular prostheses, implants, and various blood contacting devices.
Rapid Decreases in Blood Pressure from Antihypertensive Treatment were Associated with Increased Cancer Mortality in the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program
Authors: Swerdel Joel N. , Janevic Teresa M. , Cabrera Javier , Cosgrove Nora M. , Sedjro Jeanine E. , Pressel Sara L. , Davis Barry R. , Kostis John B.
Published: May 2014

Background: Research on the association between antihypertensive drug treatment (HTDT) and cancer is equivocal. We tested the hypothesis that large, rapid decreases in blood pressure following HTDT are associated with higher cancer mortality.

Methods: Data from the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program (SHEP) with 15-year cause-specific follow-up for mortality were used. We used changes from baseline in seated and standing systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after the initiation of HTDT. Hazard ratios adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and competing risk of non–cancer-related deaths were estimated to determine the association between SBP change, as a continuous or time-dependent measure, and cancer-related death.

Results: SHEP participants taking antihypertensive medication who exhibited a decrease in seated SBP of 29 mm Hg or more (50th percentile and above) at 3 months were at a 58% greater risk of cancer-related death during a 15-year follow-up compared with those with no decrease in SBP (P = 0.007, 42% increased risk P = 0.02 for standing SBP). Those participants whose maximal seated SBP change occurred in the first 3 months of treatment had 2.6-times greater risk of cancer mortality compared with those whose maximal seated SBP change occurred at 12 months (P = 0.004).

Conclusions: Large SBP decreases early in HTDT were associated with an increased risk of cancer-related death during a 15-year follow-up. Further studies are needed to confirm and explore the potential mechanisms for this association.

Impact: Rapid decreases in blood pressure following HTDT may be a risk factor for cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(8); 1589–97. ©2014 AACR.
Genome-Wide Association Study: A Useful Tool to Identify Common Genetic Variants Associated with Drug Toxicity and Efficacy in Cancer Pharmacogenomics
Authors: Low Siew-Kee , Takahashi Atsushi , Mushiroda Taisei , Kubo Michiaki
Published: May 2014

In recent years, the utilization of genome-wide association study (GWAS) has proved to be a beneficial method to identify novel common genetic variations not only for disease susceptibility but also for drug efficacy and drug-induced toxicity, creating a field of pharmacogenomics studies. In addition, the findings from GWAS also generate new biologic hypotheses that could improve the understanding of pathophysiology for disease or the mechanism of drug-induced toxicity. This review highlights the implications of GWAS that have been published to date and discusses the successes as well as challenges of using GWAS in cancer pharmacogenomics. The aim of pharmacogenomics is to realize the vision of personalized medicine; it is hoped that through GWAS, novel common genetic variations could be identified to predict clinical outcome and/or toxicity in cancer therapies that subsequently could be implemented to improve the quality of lives of patients with cancer. Nevertheless, given the complexity of cancer therapies, underpowered studies, and large heterogeneity of study designs, collaborative efforts are needed to validate these findings and overcome the limitations of GWA studies before clinical implementation.

See all articles in this CCR Focus section, “Progress in Pharmacodynamic Endpoints.”

Clin Cancer Res; 20(10); 2541–52. ©2014 AACR.
Galectin-3 and PTEN Expression in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma, Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms and Gastrointestinal Tumors on Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology
Authors: Jiang Kun , Lawson Diane , Cohen Cynthia , Siddiqui Momin T.
Published: May 2014

Objective: Galectin-3 has been implicated in the carcinogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Its applicability in pancreatic fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in separating malignant from benign lesions has never been addressed. In addition, a correlation between Galectin-3 and tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and their potential diagnostic value has never been tested. Study Design: This study analyzed Galectin-3 immunohistochemical expression in FNA cell blocks of PDAC, pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNEN), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and non-tumor pancreatic tissue. In parallel, Galectin-3 and PTEN levels were evaluated in a tumor tissue microarray (TMA). Results: Forty-four of 46 PDAC FNA and 32 of 33 PDAC TMA demonstrated tumor-specific Galectin-3 positivity. In contrast, Galectin-3 was not detected in PNEN and GIST. Total loss of PTEN was displayed by 26 of 33 PDAC, while non-neoplastic tissues all retained PTEN expression. Conclusion: Galectin-3 could be a valuable marker to help diagnose PDAC and rule out PNEN and GIST. In addition, PTEN positivity strongly argues against a diagnosis of PDAC. These data also advocate their potential diagnostic roles in the work up of challenging cytologic cases requiring ancillary test confirmation.
Titration of the gap junction protein Connexin43 reduces atherogenesis
Authors: Morel Sandrine , Chanson Marc , Nguyen Thien D. , Glass Aaron M. , Sarieddine Maya Z. Richani , Meens Merlijn J. , Burnier Laurent , Taffet Steven M. , Kwak Brenda R.
Published: May 2014

Ubiquitous reduction of the gap junction protein Connexin43 (Cx43) in mice provides beneficial effects on progression and composition of atherosclerotic lesions. Cx43 is expressed in multiple atheroma-associated cells but its function in each cell type is not known. To examine specifically the role of Cx43 in immune cells, we have lethally irradiated low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice and reconstituted with Cx43+/+, Cx43+/− or Cx43−/− haematopoietic fetal liver cells. Progression of atherosclerosis was significantly lower in aortic roots of Cx43+/− chimeras compared with Cx43+/+ and Cx43−/− chimeras, and their plaques contained significantly less neutrophils. The relative proportion of circulating leukocytes was similar between the three groups. Interestingly, the chemoattraction of neutrophils, which did not express Cx43, was reduced in response to supernatant secreted by Cx43+/− macrophages in comparison with the ones of Cx43+/+ and Cx43−/− macrophages. Cx43+/− macrophages did not differ from Cx43+/+ and Cx43−/− macrophages in terms of M1/M2 polarisation but show modified gene expression for a variety chemokines and complement components. In conclusion, titration of Cx43 expression in bone marrow-derived macrophages reduces atherosclerotic plaque formation and chemoattraction of neutrophils to the lesions.
Inhibition of the Plasma SCUBE1, a Novel Platelet Adhesive Protein, Protects Mice Against Thrombosis
Authors: Wu Meng-Ying , Lin Yuh-Charn , Liao Wei-Ju , Tu Cheng-Fen , Chen Ming-Huei , Roffler Steve R. , Yang Ruey-Bing
Published: May 2014

Objective—

Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE1), a secreted and surface-exposed glycoprotein on activated platelets, promotes platelet–platelet interaction and supports platelet–matrix adhesion. Its plasma level is a biomarker of platelet activation in acute thrombotic diseases. However, the exact roles of plasma SCUBE1 in vivo remain undefined.

Approach and Results—

We generated new mutant (Δ) mice lacking the soluble but retaining the membrane-bound form of SCUBE1. Plasma SCUBE1-depleted Δ/Δ mice showed normal hematologic and coagulant features and expression of major platelet receptors, but Δ/Δ platelet-rich plasma showed impaired platelet aggregation in response to ADP and collagen treatment. The addition of purified recombinant SCUBE1 protein restored the aggregation of platelets in Δ/Δ platelet-rich plasma and further enhanced platelet aggregation in +/+ platelet-rich plasma. Plasma deficiency of SCUBE1 diminished arterial thrombosis in mice and protected against lethal thromboembolism induced by collagen-epinephrine treatment. Last, antibodies directed against the epidermal growth factor–like repeats of SCUBE1, which are involved in trans-homophilic protein–protein interactions, protected mice against fatal thromboembolism without causing bleeding in vivo.

Conclusions—

We conclude that plasma SCUBE1 participates in platelet aggregation by bridging adjacent activated platelets in thrombosis. Blockade of soluble SCUBE1 might represent a novel antithrombotic strategy.
Caucasian, Iranian and Urartian Bronze Bells
Authors: Castelluccia Manuel , Dan Roberto
Published: May 2014

Abstract

This paper presents a review of metal “bells”, a category of metal object often found in Iron Age archaeological contexts of Caucasian, north Iranian and Urartian cultures. Each cultural sphere is considered separately, focusing on material brought to light during archaeological excavations. An analysis of these three different traditions allows comparison of these artifacts in order to detect evidence of contacts and reciprocal influences between these cultural regions, which strongly interacted during the first half of the Iron Age.
The Many Masters of Ottoman Hospitals
Authors: Shefer-Mossensohn Miri
Published: May 2014

This article analyzes the management of imperial Ottoman hospitals in the urban centres during the early modern period. Presumably, as charitable institutions, the Islamic legal system provides a comprehensive system of legal and financial management that covers early modern imperial hospitals. In reality, however, the management of Ottoman hospitals was more complex, involving multiple stakeholders. In addition to the religious administrative functions, numerous state organs took over responsibilities associated with the management of early modern imperial hospitals. Offices and officials within the imperial palace and harem, the central bureaucracy, the provincial administration, and the religious institutions were all involved in these hospitals' management. This article examines the logic behind this seemingly chaotic process.
Giesbertiolus curoei, a new species of flower chafer from Panama with transitional characters (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae: Trichiini)
Authors: RAMÍREZ-PONCE ANDRÉS
Published: May 2014

Giesbertiolus curoei, new species is described from a female specimen collected in northwestern Panama. This species is compared with the three known species of Giesbertiolus Howden and with the genus Dialithus Parry. The genera Dialithus and Giesbertiolus are redefined to include this new species, and new diagnostic characters are provided for both. Illustrations of diagnostic characters and an identification key for the species of Giesbertiolus are provided.
A new species of Minagenia Banks, 1934 (Hymenoptera, Pompilidae) from China, with the key to species
Authors: JI XIAO-LING , LI CHONG-YANG , MA LI , LI QIANG
Published: May 2014

Minagenia fulvifemoralis Ji et Ma, sp. nov. (Yunnan) is described and figured. Key to five species of the genus Minagenia Banks is given.
A synopsis of the Neotropical genus Nephepeltia (Odonata: Libellulidae), including description of a new species, synonymies, and a key to males
Authors: ELLENRIEDER NATALIA VON
Published: May 2014

Nephepeltia flavipennis (Holotype: Brazil, Rondônia, Governador Jorge Teixeira Municipality, Fazenda Rancho Grande, 10°31'48''S, 62°48'0''W, 165 m, J. Wiseman leg., in MNRJ) is described from the Amazon region of W Brazil, Ecuador, and N Peru. A lectotype is designated for N. aequisetis Calvert, 1909. Nephepeltia chalconota is considered to be a junior subjective synonym of N. flavifrons Karsch, 1889, and the subdivision of N. phryne into two subspecies is found to be unjustifiable. Diagnoses, illustrations, a key to males, and an updated map for all known members of the genus are provided.
Effective Isentropic Diffusivity of Tropospheric Transport
Authors: Chen Gang , Plumb Alan
Published: May 2014

Tropospheric transport can be described qualitatively by the slow mean diabatic circulation and rapid isentropic mixing, yet a quantitative understanding of the transport circulation is complicated, as nearly half of the isentropic surfaces in the troposphere frequently intersect the ground. A theoretical framework for the effective isentropic diffusivity of tropospheric transport is presented. Compared with previous isentropic analysis of effective diffusivity, a new diagnostic is introduced to quantify the eddy diffusivity of the near-surface isentropic flow. This diagnostic also links the effective eddy diffusivity directly to a diffusive closure of eddy fluxes through a finite-amplitude wave activity equation.

The theory is examined in a dry primitive equation model on the sphere. It is found that the upper troposphere is characterized by a diffusivity minimum at the jet’s center with enhanced mixing at the jet’s flanks and that the lower troposphere is dominated by stronger mixing throughout the baroclinic zone. This structure of isentropic diffusivity is generally consistent with the diffusivity obtained from the geostrophic component of the flow. Furthermore, the isentropic diffusivity agrees broadly with the tracer equivalent length obtained from either a spectral diffusion scheme or a semi-Lagrangian advection scheme, indicating that the effective diffusivity of tropospheric transport is largely dictated by large-scale stirring rather than details of the small-scale diffusion acting on the tracers.
A Formal Analysis of the Feedback Concept in Climate Models. Part II: Tangent Linear Systems in GCMs
Authors: Lahellec Alain , Dufresne Jean-Louis
Published: May 2014

Climate analysis is greatly simplified in perturbation analysis when filtered anomalies show linear behavior. In the first part (part I) of this two-part analysis, the formal tangent linear system (TLS) that handles linear behavior was used to demonstrate the strict equivalence between feedback and sensitivity analysis but at the cost of reducing the generality of its application to GCMs. In this second part, the full feedback analysis is introduced from the application of the so-called regression method of Gregory et al. The authors give a complete example of its use in the global analysis of the phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) abrupt 4×CO2 and ramp experiments. A simple 1D model with only two ocean layers is shown to be able to explain the slow climate warming of the next century. An extension of the formal results in part I allows a new perturbation method to be designed in GCMs to determine the TLS in models. A series of illustrations demonstrates the advantages of implementing such a method in GCMs.
Social origin and occupational success at labour market entry in The Netherlands, 1931–80
Authors: Tolsma Jochem , Wolbers Maarten HJ
Published: May 2014

In this article we study some of the overlooked mechanisms of how social origin affects an individual’s occupational success at labour market entry. The empirical analysis draws on four Dutch retrospective life-course surveys. The analytical sample consists of 6,416 respondents born in the period 1931–80. The results show intergenerational transmission of occupational status, but the effect of father’s occupation on his child’s first job has declined over time. Part of the decreased impact of social origin is related to the increased age at first job. Educational expansion prolonged the school career of individuals and increased the age at which they first enter the labour market, when parental control and influence matter less. The effect of level of education has decreased over time too, at an even faster rate. Because of that, a trend from ascription to achievement cannot be confirmed. Furthermore, we found evidence of a weaker impact of social origin on occupational status attainment for the higher educated. The labour market for higher levels of education is more meritocratic, as employers use the degree to which various educational programmes at these levels provide occupation-specific skills to evaluate the labour productivity of potential workers.
Lipid Target Achievement Among Patients With Very High and High Cardiovascular Risk in a Lipid Clinic
Authors: Barkas Fotios , Liberopoulos Evangelos N. , Kostapanos Michael S. , Liamis George , Tziallas Dimitrios , Elisaf Moses
Published: May 2014

This was a retrospective study that assessed achievement of lipid-lowering treatment targets in the setting of a University Hospital Lipid Clinic. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal attainment according to National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) and European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society (ESC/EAS) guidelines was recorded in 1000 consecutive adult patients followed for ≥3 years (mean 8 years). The LDL-C targets according to the NCEP ATP III were attained by 66% and 86% of patients with “very high” (n = 477) and “high” (n = 408) cardiovascular risk, respectively. Fewer patients were within LDL-C goals according to the ESC/EAS guidelines: 25% and 42%. Overall, 92% of the patients were on statins: 67% were on statin monotherapy, while 33% were on combinations with ezetimibe (25%), ω-3 fatty acids (5%), fibrates (4%), or colesevelam (2%). Even in a specialist lipid clinic, a large proportion of patients are not at goal according to the recent ESC/EAS guidelines.
Comparing Japanese College Students’ and U.S. College Students’ Disordered Eating, Distress, and Psychological Inflexibility
Authors: Masuda Akihiko , Muto Takashi , Tully Erin C. , Morgan Jessica , Hill Mary L.
Published: May 2014

The present study investigated whether psychological inflexibility is related to disordered eating in Japanese undergraduate students and compared the strength and pattern of the associations with effects in a sample of undergraduate students from the United States. Data from 200 Japanese ( nfemale = 100) and 481 U.S. ( nfemale = 380) college students were used. Contrary to prediction, female gender and higher body mass index (BMI), but not psychological inflexibility, were uniquely related to higher levels of disordered eating while controlling for age and psychological distress in the Japanese group. In the U.S. group, greater psychological inflexibility was the only variable that was uniquely related to higher levels of disordered eating after controlling for other study variables. Our findings suggest that psychological inflexibility may not be a useful concept for understanding disordered eating within Japanese college students.
The compensation of actuator delay for hardware-in-the-loop simulation of a jet engine fuel control unit
Authors: Hashemi SR , Montazeri M , Nasiri M
Published: May 2014

Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) is a type of real-time simulation test that is different from a pure real-time simulation test due to a real component added to the loop. Since HIL includes numerical and physical components, a transfer system is required to link these parts. The transfer system typically consists of a set of actuators and sensors. In order to get accurate test results, the transfer system dynamic effects need to be mitigated. The fuel control unit (FCU) is an electro-hydraulic component of the fuel control system in gas turbine engines. Investigation of FCU performance through HIL technique requires the numerical model of other related parts, such as the jet engine and the designed electronic control unit. In addition, a transfer system is employed to link the FCU hardware and the numerical model. The objective of this study was to implement the HIL simulation of the FCU. To get accurate simulation results, the inverse and polynomial compensation techniques were proposed to compensate time delays resulting from inherent dynamics of the transfer system. Finally, the results obtained by applying both of the methods were compared.
Is a New High-Resolution Probe Better than the Standard Probe for 3D Anal Sphincter and Levator Ani Imaging?
Authors: Rostaminia Ghazaleh , White Dena , Quiroz Lieschen , Shobeiri S. Abbas
Published: May 2014

The aim of our study was to determine the accuracy of a new three-dimensional (3D) endoluminal ultrasound probe in assessing the levator ani muscle and anal sphincter complex. A total of 85 patients who had undergone concurrent 3D endovaginal (EVUS) and 3D endoanal (EAUS) ultrasound with both the standard BK 2052 probe and the new high-definition BK 8838 probes were included. For EVUS volumes, the levator ani deficiency (LAD) scores were calculated for each probe. For the EAUS volumes, any defects in the external anal sphincter (EAS) and the internal anal sphincter (IAS) visualized with each probe were recorded. The 3D volumes were evaluated in a blinded fashion. Appropriate statistics were utilized to assess absolute agreements between each pair of imaging modalities. The mean age of the patient population was 59 years ( SD ± 10.76), the mean body mass index (BMI) was 28.36 ( SD ± 5.99), and the median parity was 2 (range 1, 7). In all, 93% of the patients were Caucasian, 31% had stage 0 or 1 prolapse, while 59% had stage 2 prolapse. The mean total LAD score obtained on EVUS with the standard and the new probes were 11.49 ( SD ± 4.94) and 11.53 ( SD ± 5.01), respectively, p = 0.3778. Among the 53 patients who had EAUS with both probes, exact agreement for visualization of EAS and IAS for the standard and the new probes was 83% and 98%, respectively. Both transducers can be used for endovaginal imaging of the levator ani muscles interchangeably. Both transducers can be used for endoanal imaging of anal sphincter complex interchangeably.
Compassionate love in romantic relationships
Authors: Fehr Beverley , Harasymchuk Cheryl , Sprecher Susan
Published: May 2014

Compassionate love has been identified as one of the major types of love experienced in relationships (Berscheid, 2010), but one that has been overshadowed by the study of romantic love. In this article, we review research on compassionate love, a relative newcomer to the close relationships field, and present findings that more fully flesh-out the nature of the experience of this kind of love. We begin by discussing conceptions and measurement of compassionate love. We then present a study on the relation between compassionate love and love styles, with a focus on distinguishing between compassionate love and the agape (altruistic) love style. The literature on individual differences in compassionate love is discussed next. The spotlight then shifts to research on the link between compassionate love and prosocial relationship behaviors, relationship quality, and relationship stability. Differences between compassionate love given versus received also are highlighted. We end with a discussion of what compassionate love “looks like” in the context of a romantic relationship and recommend directions for future research.
Two of a Kind? Differences and Similarities of Attacks in Schools and in Institutes of Higher Education
Authors: Bondü Rebecca , Beier Sophia
Published: May 2014

School attacks are attracting increasing attention in aggression research. Recent systematic analyses provided new insights into offense and offender characteristics. Less is known about attacks in institutes of higher education (e.g., universities). It is therefore questionable whether the term “school attack” should be limited to institutions of general education or could be extended to institutions of higher education. Scientific literature is divided in distinguishing or unifying these two groups and reports similarities as well as differences. We researched 232 school attacks and 45 attacks in institutes of higher education throughout the world and conducted systematic comparisons between the two groups. The analyses yielded differences in offender (e.g., age, migration background) and offense characteristics (e.g., weapons, suicide rates), and some similarities (e.g., gender). Most differences can apparently be accounted for by offenders’ age and situational influences. We discuss the implications of our findings for future research and the development of preventative measures.
Information literacy-related practices in the legal workplace: The applicability of Kuhlthau’s model to the legal profession
Authors: Lawal Vicki , Stilwell Christine , Kuhn Rosemary , Underwood Peter G.
Published: May 2014

This article examines evidence of information literacy in the context of legal education and legal practice in Nigeria. It seeks to explore the application of Kuhlthau’s Information Search Process model as the dominant framework used in investigating issues of uncertainty and task complexity in a study conducted among graduate lawyers in Nigeria. The article provides an analysis of the empirical validity of the model in investigating the connection between learning, experience and the development of expertise among novice practitioners in the legal workplace in Nigeria. Data were obtained using quantitative and qualitative approaches while a case study method was employed for the study. Based on the findings of the study, the article offers insight into the role of the cognitive and affective dimensions in information seeking and the implications they have on issues of curriculum design, teaching methods and learning experiences in the context of legal education and practice in Nigeria.