bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of(λ,μ)-Fuzzy Subgroups
Authors: Li Yuying , Wang Xuzhu , Yang Liqiong
Published: November 2013

We deal with topics regarding(λ,μ)-fuzzy subgroups, mainly(λ,μ)-fuzzy cosets and(λ,μ)-fuzzy normal subgroups. We give basic properties of(λ,μ)-fuzzy subgroups and present some results related to(λ,μ)-fuzzy cosets and(λ,μ)-fuzzy normal subgroups.
Expression Profile of IL-35 mRNA in Gingiva of Chronic Periodontitis and Aggressive Periodontitis Patients: A Semiquantitative RT-PCR Study
Authors: Kalburgi Nagaraj B. , Muley Akshay , Shivaprasad B. M. , Koregol Arati C.
Published: November 2013

Background. Proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines play a key role in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. Secretion of bioactive IL-35 has been described by T regulatory cells () and is required for their maximal suppressive activity. are involved in the modulation of local immune response in chronic periodontitis patients.Objective. Hence, the present study was aimed to investigate the expression of IL-35 mRNA in chronic periodontitis and aggressive periodontitis patients.Materials and Methods. The present study was carried out in 60 subjects, which included 20 chronic periodontitis patients, 20 aggressive periodontitis patients, and 20 periodontally healthy controls. IL-35 mRNA expression in gingival tissue samples of all subjects was semiquantitatively analyzed using Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).Results. The present study demonstrated the expression of IL-35 mRNA in gingival tissues of all the three groups. IL-35 mRNA expression was highest in chronic periodontitis subjects () as compared to the aggressive periodontitis group () and least seen in healthy patients ().Conclusion. The increased expression of IL-35 in chronic and aggressive periodontitis suggests its possible role in pathogenesis of periodontitis. Future studies done on large samples with intervention will strengthen our result.
Maxwell’s Equal Area Law and the Hawking-Page Phase Transition
Authors: Spallucci Euro , Smailagic Anais
Published: November 2013

We study the phases of a Schwarzschild black hole in the Anti-deSitter background geometry. Exploiting fluid/gravity duality, we construct the Maxwell equal area isotherm   in the temperature-entropy plane, in order to eliminate negative heat capacity BHs. The construction we present here is reminiscent of the isobar cut in the pressure-volume plane which eliminates unphysical part of the Van der Walls curves below the critical temperature. Our construction also modifies the Hawking-Page phase transition. Stable BHs are formed at the temperature , while pure radiation persists for . turns out to be below the standard Hawking-Page temperature and there are no unstable BHs as in the usual scenario. Also, we show that, in order to reproduce the correct BH entropy , one has to write a black hole equation of state, that is, , in terms of the geometrical volume .
Cholesterol Contributes to Diabetic Nephropathy through SCAP-SREBP-2 Pathway
Authors: Sun Hong , Yuan Yang , Sun Zi-Lin
Published: November 2013

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) has been associated with the presence of lipid deposition. We hypothesized that the disruption of intracellular cholesterol feedback may contribute to DN. Diabetes was induced by high fat/sucrose diet and low-dose intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (STZ) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Then diabetic rats were randomly divided into two groups: untreated diabetic group (DM) and atorvastatin-treated group (DM + AT). We found that the levels of serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, as well as 24-hour urine protein and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, were significantly increased in diabetic rats. This result indicated that the diabetic rats suffered from functional renal damage. We also observed lipid droplet accumulation and increase in 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoAR), low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr), sterol regulatory element binding protein-2 (SREBP-2), and SREBP-cleavage activating protein (SCAP) in the kidneys of diabetic rats. However, atorvastatin ameliorated renal lipid accumulation and improved the renal function of diabetic rats despite an increase in mRNA and protein expressions of HMG-CoAR, LDLr, and SREBP-2. These results demonstrated that intracellular cholesterol feedback regulation is disrupted in rats with type 2 diabetes, thereby causing renal cholesterol accumulation. Atorvastatin ameliorated renal cholesterol accumulation by reducing renal cholesterol synthesis.
Three-Dimensional Temperature Distribution Produced by a Moving Laser Beam
Authors: Uyhan R.
Published: November 2013

An axisymmetric laser beam, moving with constant speed, heats a thin infrared absorbing layer sandwiched between two plastic sheets. We use a simplified theoretical model to study the three-dimensional unsteady temperature field produced by the moving laser beam.
When a Whole Practice Model Is the Intervention: Developing Fidelity Evaluation Components Using Program Theory-Driven Science for an Integrative Medicine Primary Care Clinic
Authors: Dodds Sally E. , Herman Patricia M. , Sechrest Lee , Abraham Ivo , Logue Melanie D. , Grizzle Amy L. , Rehfeld Rick A. , Urbine Terry J. , Horwitz Randy , Crocker Robert L. , Maizes Victoria H.
Published: November 2013

Integrative medicine (IM) is a clinical paradigm of whole person healthcare that combines appropriate conventional and complementary medicine (CM) treatments. Studies of integrative healthcare systems and theory-driven evaluations of IM practice models need to be undertaken. Two health services research methods can strengthen the validity of IM healthcare studies, practice theory, and fidelity evaluation. The University of Arizona Integrative Health Center (UAIHC) is a membership-supported integrative primary care clinic in Phoenix, AZ. A comparative effectiveness evaluation is being conducted to assess its clinical and cost outcomes. A process evaluation of the clinic’s practice theory components assesses model fidelity for four purposes: (1) as a measure of intervention integrity to determine whether the practice model was delivered as intended; (2) to describe an integrative primary care clinic model as it is being developed and refined; (3) as potential covariates in the outcomes analyses, to assist in interpretation of findings, and for external validity and replication; and (4) to provide feedback for needed corrections and improvements of clinic operations over time. This paper provides a rationale for the use of practice theory and fidelity evaluation in studies of integrative practices and describes the approach and protocol used in fidelity evaluation of the UAIHC.
Clinical, Biological, and Imaging Features of Monogenic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pilotto Andrea , Padovani Alessandro , Borroni Barbara
Published: November 2013

The discovery of monogenic forms of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) associated with mutations withinPSEN1, PSEN2,andAPPgenes is giving a big contribution in the understanding of the underpinning mechanisms of this complex disorder. Compared with sporadic form, the phenotype associated with monogenic cases is somewhat broader including behavioural disturbances, epilepsy, myoclonus, and focal presentations. Structural and functional imaging show typical early changes also in presymptomatic monogenic carriers. Amyloid imaging and CSF tau/Aβratio may be useful in the differential diagnosis with other neurodegenerative dementias, especially, in early onset cases. However, to date any specific biomarkers of different monogenic cases have been identified. Thus, in clinical practice, the early identification is often difficult, but the copresence of different elements could help in recognition. This review will focus on the clinical and instrumental markers useful for the very early identification of AD monogenic cases, pivotal in the development, and evaluation of disease-modifying therapy.
Optimality Conditions and Duality of Three Kinds of Nonlinear Fractional Programming Problems
Authors: Zhang Xiaomin , Wu Zezhong
Published: November 2013

Some assumptions for the objective functions and constraint functions are given under the conditions of convex and generalized convex, which are based on theF-convex,ρ-convex, and(F,ρ)-convex. The sufficiency of Kuhn-Tucker optimality conditions and appropriate duality results are proved involving(F,ρ)-convex,(F,α,ρ,d)-convex, and generalized(F,α,ρ,d)-convex functions.
Posttraumatic Refractory Intracranial Hypertension and Brain Herniation Syndrome: Cerebral Hemodynamic Assessment before Decompressive Craniectomy
Authors: Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Paiva Wellingson Silva , Figueiredo Eberval G. , Fujimoto Yasunori , Andrade Almir Ferreira de , Fonoff Erich Talamoni , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: November 2013

Background. The pathophysiology of traumatic brain swelling remains little understood. An improved understanding of intracranial circulatory process related to brain herniation may have treatment implications.Objective. To investigate the cerebral hemodynamic changes associated with brain herniation syndrome due to traumatic brain swelling.Methods. Nineteen head-injured patients with evidence of refractory intracranial hypertension and transtentorial herniation were prospectively studied. Cerebral hemodynamic assessment by transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography was performed prior to decompressive craniectomy. Patients and their cerebral hemispheres were classified according to TCD-hemodynamic patterns, and the data correlated with neurological status, midline shift on CT scan, and Glasgow outcome scale scores at 6 months after injury.Results. A wide variety of cerebral hemodynamic findings were observed. Ten patients (52.7%) presented with cerebral oligoemia, 3 patients (15.8%) with cerebral hyperemia, and 6 patients with nonspecific circulatory pattern. Circulatory disturbances were more frequently found in the side of maximal cerebral swelling than in the opposite side. Pulsatility index (PI) values suggested that ICP varied from acceptable to considerably high; patients with increased PI, indicating higher microvascular resistance. No correlation was found between cerebral hemodynamic findings and outcome.Conclusions. There is a marked heterogeneity of cerebral hemodynamic disturbances among patients with brain herniation syndrome.
A Study of Rough Set Approach in Gastroenterology
Authors: Sahiner Ahmet , Yigit Tuba
Published: November 2013

We try to determine the type of abdominal pain of the patients who have several symptoms. Via the rough set theory, we obtain information table and discernibility matrix and put forward the status decision information. Thus, we obtain certain results and test these operations by the Rosetta program.
A Review on Potential Issues and Challenges in MR Imaging
Authors: Kathiravan Srinivasan , Kanakaraj Jagannathan
Published: November 2013

Magnetic resonance imaging is a noninvasive technique that has been developed for its excellent depiction of soft tissue contrasts. Instruments capable of ultra‐high field strengths, ≥7 Tesla, were recently engineered and have resulted in higher signal‐to‐noise and higher resolution images. This paper presents various subsystems of the MR imaging systems like the magnet subsystem, gradient subsystem, and also various issues which arise due to the magnet. Further, it also portrays finer details about the RF coils and transceiver and also various limitations of the RF coils and transceiver. Moreover, the concept behind the data processing system and the challenges related to it were also depicted. Finally, the various artifacts associated with the MR imaging were clearly pointed out. It also presents a brief overview about all the challenges related to MR imaging systems.
Effects of Ring Support and Internal Pressure on the Vibration Behavior of Multiple Layered Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Isvandzibaei M. R. , Jamaluddin H. , Raja Hamzah R. I.
Published: November 2013

This paper presents the study on natural frequency characteristics of a multiple layered cylindrical shell with ring support under internal pressure. The multiple layered cylindrical shell configuration is formed by three layers of isotropic materials where the inner and outer layers are stainless steel and the middle layer is aluminum. The isotropic multiple layered shell equations with ring support and internal pressure are established based on first order shear deformation theory (FSDT). The governing equations of motion were employed by using energy functional and by applying the Ritz method. The boundary conditions represented by end conditions of the multiple cylindrical shell are simply supported-simply supported (SS-SS), clamped-clamped (C-C), free-free (F-F), clamped-free (C-F), clamped-simply supported (C-SS), and free-simply supported (F-SS). The influences of internal pressure and ring support and the effect of the different boundary conditions on natural frequencies characteristics are studied. The results are validated by comparing them with those in the literature.
The Existence of Multiple Solutions for Nonhomogeneous Kirchhoff Type Equations in
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhu Xiaoli
Published: November 2013

We are concerned with the existence of multiple solutions to the nonhomogeneous Kirchhoff type equation where are positive constants, , we can find a constant such that for all the equation has at least two radial solutions provided .
Adaptive State-Feedback Stabilization for Stochastic Nonholonomic Mobile Robots with Unknown Parameters
Authors: Feng Wenli , Sun Qingli , Cao Zhijun , Zhang Dongkai , Chen Hua
Published: November 2013

The stabilizing problem of stochastic nonholonomic mobile robots with uncertain parameters is addressed in this paper. The nonholonomic mobile robots with kinematic unknown parameters are extended to the stochastic case. Based on backstepping technique, adaptive state-feedback stabilizing controllers are designed for nonholonomic mobile robots with kinematic unknown parameters whose linear velocity and angular velocity are subject to some stochastic disturbances simultaneously. A switching control strategy for the original system is presented. The proposed controllers that guarantee the states of closed-loop system are asymptotically stabilized at the zero equilibrium point in probability.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Some Novel Chromone Based Dithiazoles as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Aggarwal Naureen , Sharma Vishal , Kaur Harpreet , Ishar Mohan Paul Singh
Published: November 2013

Novel substituted 1,2,4-dithiazolylchromones 3a–j were synthesized by the reaction of 3-formylchromones (1a–j) with two equivalents of p-chlorothiobenzamide (2) in dry xylene and characterized spectroscopically (IR, 1H and 13C NMR, mass) and elemental analysis. All synthesized compounds were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains and were found to possess good to moderate inhibitory potential against all tested strains. Antimicrobial results reveal that compounds bearing lipophilic electron withdrawing groups such as chloro and bromo displayed significant inhibitory potential against both bacterial and fungal strains. Particularly, compound 3c displayed significant inhibitory against bacterial strains and compound 3h exhibits significant inhibitory potential in comparison to standard drug fluconazole against fungal strain S. cerevisiae.
The Effect of Process and Model Parameters in Temperature Prediction for Hot Stamping of Boron Steel
Authors: Sun Chaoyang , Bai Qian , Lin Jianguo , Matsumoto Takeki , Dean Trevor A.
Published: November 2013

Finite element models of the hot stamping and cold die quenching process for boron steel sheet were developed using either rigid or elastic tools. The effect of tool elasticity and process parameters on workpiece temperature was investigated. Heat transfer coefficient between blank and tools was modelled as a function of gap and contact pressure. Temperature distribution and thermal history in the blank were predicted, and thickness distribution of the blank was obtained. Tests were carried out and the test results are used for the validation of numerical predictions. The effect of holding load and the size of cooling ducts on temperature distribution during the forming and the cool die quenching process was also studied by using two models. The results show that higher accuracy predictions of blank thickness and temperature distribution during deformation were obtained using the elastic tool model. However, temperature results obtained using the rigid tool model were close to those using the elastic tool model for a range of holding load.
Shelf Acetabuloplasty in the Treatment of Severe Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Good Outcomes at Midterm Follow-Up
Authors: Grzegorzewski Andrzej , Synder Marek , Kmieć Krysztof , Krajewski Karol , Polguj Michał , Sibiński Marcin
Published: November 2013

The aim of the study was to retrospectively review results of operative treatment for coverage deficit of femoral head in children with severe epiphysis displacement in Legg-Calvé-Perthes (LCP) disease. The material included 23 shelf acetabuloplasty procedures for LCP disease. The average age at diagnosis was 8.1 years (range 4–12). Mean follow-up was 5.8 years (range from 2.2 to 11.2 years). Mean Reimer's index decreased statistically significantly from a mean of 32% before surgery to 10.0% at the last follow-up (P<0.00001). The mean Wiberg center-edge angle increased also statistically significantly from a mean of 17.3° before procedure to 32.3° at the last follow-up (P<0.00001). According to the Stulberg classification, type I was observed in 2, type II in 13, type III in 6, and type IV in 2 hips. There were no differences in the range of motion or leg length discrepancy in preoperative and postoperative standing. Partial, not significant, bone graft resorption was noted in 6 cases in the first 6–9 months after surgery. To conclude, shelf acetabuloplasty allows achieving good midterm results in the treatment of severe stages of LCP disease. The procedure improves coverage of femoral head and allows its remodelling.
Numerical and Experimental Study on Working Mechanics of Pear-Shaped Casing Swage
Authors: Lin Yuanhua , Deng Kuanhai , Zeng Dezhi , Liu Wanying , Zhu Hongjun , Xie Juan , Zhou Ying , Wang Qijun
Published: November 2013

Pear-shaped casing swage (PCS) repair technology is highly efficient in repairing deformed casing and the value of repairing force is a very important parameter for designing and optimizing the casing swage and structure parameters. A new three-dimensional simulation analysis of casing swage in the well and the finite element analysis (FEA) model of 7′′ API deformed casing and PCS are established based on the elastic-plastic mechanics, the finite element theory, and application of numerical simulation analysis for the actual process of repairing deformed casing. According to the model, the repairing force required to repair the deformed casing is obtained; furthermore, the correlation between the repairing force and confining pressure is obtained. Meanwhile, the repairing test of deformed casing was performed by using PCS in the lab. Experimental results are consistent with simulation results. It indicated that the mechanical model can provide theoretical guidance for design and optimization of the structure of tool and reshaping technological parameters.
Altered Peptidase Activities in Thyroid Neoplasia and Hyperplasia
Authors: Larrinaga Gorka , Blanco Lorena , Errarte Peio , Beitia Maider , Sanz Begoña , Perez Itxaro , Irazusta Amaia , Sánchez Clara E. , Santaolalla Francisco , Andrés Leire , López José I.
Published: November 2013

Background.Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA), and thyroid nodular hyperplasia (TNH) are the most frequent diseases of the thyroid gland. Previous studies described the involvement of dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPPIV/CD26) in the development of thyroid neoplasia and proposed it as an additional tool in the diagnosis/prognosis of these diseases. However, very little is known about the involvement of other peptidases in neoplastic and hyperplastic processes of this gland.Methods.The catalytic activity of 10 peptidases in a series of 30 PTC, 10 FTA, and 14 TNH was measured fluorimetrically in tumour and nontumour adjacent tissues.Results.The activity of DPPIV/CD26 was markedly higher in PTC than in FTA, TNH, and nontumour tissues. Aspartyl aminopeptidase (AspAP), alanyl aminopeptidase (AlaAP), prolyl endopeptidase, pyroglutamyl peptidase I, and aminopeptidase B activities were significantly increased in thyroid neoplasms when compared to nontumour tissues. AspAP and AlaAP activities were also significantly higher in PTC than in FTA and TNH.Conclusions.These data suggest the involvement of DPPIV/CD26 and some cytosolic peptidases in the neoplastic development of PTC and FTA. Further studies will help to define the possible clinical usefulness of AlaAP and AspAP in the diagnosis/prognosis of thyroid neoplasms.
Series Representations at Special Values of Generalized Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta Function
Authors: Gaboury S. , Bayad A.
Published: November 2013

By making use of some explicit relationships between the Apostol-Bernoulli, Apostol-Euler, Apostol-Genocchi, and Apostol-Frobenius-Euler polynomials of higher order and the generalized Hurwitz-Lerch zeta function as well as a new expansion formula for the generalized Hurwitz-Lerch zeta function obtained recently by Gaboury and Bayad , in this paper we present some series representations for these polynomials at rational arguments. These results provide extensions of those obtained by Apostol (1951) and by Srivastava (2000).
Tumor Suppressor NF2/Merlin Is a Microtubule Stabilizer
Authors: Smole Zlatko , Thoma Claudio R. , Applegate Kathryn T. , Duda Maria , Gutbrodt Katrin L. , Danuser Gaudenz , Krek Wilhelm
Published: November 2013

Cancer-associated mutations in oncogene products and tumor suppressors contributing to tumor progression manifest themselves, at least in part, by deregulating microtubule-dependent cellular processes that play important roles in many cell biological pathways, including intracellular transport, cell architecture, and primary cilium and mitotic spindle organization. An essential characteristic of microtubules in the performance of these varied cell processes is their ability to continuously remodel, a phenomenon known as dynamic instability. It is therefore conceivable that part of the normal function of certain cancer-causing genes is to regulate microtubule dynamic instability. Here, we report the results of a high-resolution live-cell image-based RNA interference screen targeting a collection of 70 human tumor suppressor genes to uncover cancer genes affecting microtubule dynamic instability. Extraction and computational analysis of microtubule dynamics from EB3-GFP time-lapse image sequences identified the products of the tumor suppressor genes NF1 and NF2 as potent microtubule-stabilizing proteins. Further in-depth characterization of NF2 revealed that it binds to and stabilizes microtubules through attenuation of tubulin turnover by lowering both rates of microtubule polymerization and depolymerization as well as by reducing the frequency of microtubule catastrophes. The latter function appears to be mediated, in part, by inhibition of hydrolysis of tubulin-bound GTP on the growing microtubule plus end. Cancer Res; 74(1); 353–62. ©2013 AACR.
MUC1 in Macrophage: Contributions to Cigarette Smoke–Induced Lung Cancer
Authors: Xu Xiuling , Padilla Mabel T. , Li Bilan , Wells Alexandria , Kato Kosuke , Tellez Carmen , Belinsky Steven A. , Kim Kwang Chul , Lin Yong
Published: November 2013

Expression of the pro-oncogenic mucin MUC1 is elevated by inflammation in airway epithelial cells, but the contributions of MUC1 to the development of lung cancer are uncertain. In this study, we developed our finding that cigarette smoke increases Muc1 expression in mouse lung macrophages, where we hypothesized MUC1 may contribute to cigarette smoke–induced transformation of bronchial epithelial cells. In human macrophages, cigarette smoke extract (CSE) strongly induced MUC1 expression through a mechanism involving the nuclear receptor PPAR-γ. CSE-induced extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) activation was also required for MUC1 expression, but it had little effect on MUC1 transcription. RNA interference–mediated attenuation of MUC1 suppressed CSE-induced secretion of TNF-α from macrophages, by suppressing the activity of the TNF-α–converting enzyme (TACE), arguing that MUC1 is required for CSE-induced and TACE-mediated TNF-α secretion. Similarly, MUC1 blockade after CSE induction through suppression of PPAR-γ or ERK inhibited TACE activity and TNF-α secretion. Conditioned media from CSE-treated macrophages induced MUC1 expression and potentiated CSE-induced transformation of human bronchial epithelial cells in a TNF-α–dependent manner. Together, our results identify a signaling pathway involving PPAR-γ, ERK, and MUC1 for TNF-α secretion induced by CSE from macrophages. Furthermore, our results show how MUC1 contributes to smoking-induced lung cancers that are driven by inflammatory signals from macrophages. Cancer Res; 74(2); 460–70. ©2013 AACR.
Defective TGF-β Signaling in Bone Marrow–Derived Cells Prevents Hedgehog-Induced Skin Tumors
Authors: Fan Qipeng , Gu Dongsheng , Liu Hailan , Yang Ling , Zhang Xiaoli , Yoder Mervin C. , Kaplan Mark H. , Xie Jingwu
Published: November 2013

Hedgehog signaling in cancer cells drives changes in the tumor microenvironment that are incompletely understood. Here, we report that hedgehog-driven tumors exhibit an increase in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and a decrease in T cells, indicative of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. This change was associated with activated TGF-β signaling in several cell types in basal cell carcinomas. We determined that TGF-β signaling in bone marrow–derived cells, not keratinocytes, regulates MDSC and promotes tumor development. Tgfbr2 deficiency in the bone marrow–derived cells also reduced the size of previously developed tumors in mice. We identified CCL2 as the major chemokine attracting MDSCs to tumor, whose expression was Tgfbr2-dependent, whereas its receptor CCR2 was highly expressed in MDSC population. CCL2 alone was sufficient to induce migration of MDSCs. Moreover, the CCR2 inhibitors prevented MDSC migration toward skin cells in vitro, and reduced MDSC accumulation and hedgehog signaling–driven tumor development in mice. Our results reveal a signaling network critical for hedgehog signaling in cancer cells to establish an effective immunosuppressive microenvironment during tumor development. Cancer Res; 74(2); 471–83. ©2013 AACR.
Reappraisal of the Vascular Anatomy of the Colon and Consequences for the Definition of Surgical Resection
Authors: Mike Makio , Kano Nobuyasu
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Databases of information on surgical treatment for colorectal cancer have been created in various countries and data have started to be released. The most important facets of research for statistical processing include the methodology and firm definitions of content. However, for trials involving colorectal cancer, the applicable terminology has not been defined, and much bias is frequently encountered. Starting from definitions of the colon and vascular system of the colon, we propose definitions of surgical procedures for colorectal cancer. Methodology: This paper reviews the colon segments and vascular anatomy of the colon. If surgical treatment of colon cancer is considered from this perspective, we can see that definitions for these surgical procedures are lacking. The definition of surgical treatment would also allow clarification of the range of lymph node dissection. In general, surgical procedures and the area of surgical lymph node dissection are both defined according to the basic structure of the associated arteries. However, the existing descriptions are not based on a definition of the arteries. We therefore tried to establish the most useful nomenclature for the arterial system of the large intestine for colorectal surgeons and reviewed the frequency of important arterial variations. Using the resulting definitions, we provided consistent definitions for colon cancer surgery. Conclusion: The segments of the colon need to be defined. In surgery, procedures are performed using the arteries as indicators, so vessels originating from the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries are referred to as arteries, with others are referred to as branches. Surgical treatment of colon cancer can be defined from the relationship between these arteries. For the first time, this may allow proper application of statistics for the treatment of colon cancer.
Downregulation of MicroRNA-19b Contributes to Angiotensin II-Induced Overexpression of Connective Tissue Growth Factor in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Gao Song , Liu Tie-wen , Wang Zhe , Jiao Zhen-yu , Cai Jun , Chi Hong-jie , Yang Xin-chun
Published: November 2013

Objectives: The present study was designed to decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying angiotensin (Ang) II-induced overexpression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in cultured cardiomyocytes. Methods: Cardiomyocytes isolated from 1- to 3-day-old neonatal rats were cultured and treated with 100 nM Ang II with or without pretreatment with 10 nM telmisartan, an Ang II type 1 receptor antagonist. The role of microRNA (miR)-19b in the regulation of Ang II-induced CTGF expression was evaluated in cultured cardiomyocytes with quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Results: We provide several lines of evidence to show that miR-19b contributes to the Ang II-induced overexpression of CTGF in cultured cardiomyocytes. Firstly, administration of Ang II decreased the level of miR-19b dramatically (p < 0.05 vs. control), which was abolished by telmisartan. Secondly, Ang II increased the level of CTGF significantly (p < 0.05 vs. control), which was also prevented by pretreatment with telmisartan. Thirdly, overexpression of miR-19b decreased CTGF levels (p < 0.05 vs. control). Finally, transfection of miR-19b into cardiomyocytes prevented the upregulation of CTGF induced by Ang II. Conclusion: Downregulation of miR-19b contributes to Ang II-induced overexpression of CTGF in cultured cardiomyocytes.
Allopurinol as a Preventive Contrivance after Acute Ischemic Stroke in Patients with a High Level of Serum Uric Acid: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Taheraghdam Ali Akbar , Sharifipour Ehsan , Pashapour Ali , Namdar Shahryar , Hatami Abolfazl , Houshmandzad Samaneh , Sadeghihokmabadi Elyar , Tazik Mokhtar , Rikhtegar Reza , Mahmoodpoor Ata
Published: November 2013

Objectives: To assess the clinical relevance (functional outcome) of a 3-month allopurinol regimen in patients with high serum uric acid (SUA) levels and acute ischemic stroke without considering the changes in SUA levels. Materials and Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, controlled study, 70 patients (45 females, 25 males) with acute ischemic stroke who had elevated levels of SUA were included. They were divided in two 35-patient groups to investigate the effect of 3 months of an allopurinol (200 mg/day) regimen versus placebo on their functional outcome, which was evaluated using a modified Rankin scale. Results: The overall mean age was 68.9 ± 11.33 years (range 27-89). The final favorable functional status (mRS = 0-2) was 23 (65.7%) and 14 (40.0%) in the treated and placebo groups, respectively, which was strongly associated with allopurinol consumption (OR = 4.646, p = 0.014) and age ≤70 years (OR = 0.139, p = 0.005) in patients with ischemic stroke after adjusting for confounders. There was no significant difference in death between allopurinol-treated cases (3; 8.6%) and placebo-treated ones (6; 17.2%; p = 0.278). Conclusion: Allopurinol treatment was well tolerated and improved the 3-month functional status of patients with acute ischemic stroke who had high levels of SUA without considering the decreasing effect of allopurinol on SUA.
Meta-Analysis of Primary Mesh Augmentation as Prophylactic Measure to Prevent Incisional Hernia
Authors: Timmermans Lucas , de Goede Barry , Eker Hasan H. , van Kempen Bob J.H. , Jeekel Johannes , Lange Johan F.
Published: November 2013

Background: Incisional hernia (IH) remains one of the most frequent postoperative complications after abdominal surgery. As a consequence, primary mesh augmentation (PMA), a technique to strengthen the abdominal wall, has been gaining popularity. This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the prophylactic effect of PMA on the incidence of IH compared to primary suture (PS). Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PMA and PS for closing the abdominal wall after surgery were included. Results: Out of 576 papers, 5 RCTs were selected comprising 346 patients. IH occurred significantly less in the PMA group (RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.12-0.52, I20%; p < 0.001). No difference could be observed with regard to wound infection (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.39-1.91, I2 0%; p = 0.71) or seroma (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.64-2.33, I2 0%; p = 0.55). A trend was observed for chronic pain in favor of the PS group (RR 5.95, 95% CI 0.74-48.03, I20%; p = 0.09). Conclusion: The use of PMA for abdominal wall closure is associated with significantly lower incidence of IH compared to PS.
Akzeptanz des Triple P-Elterngruppentrainings im Rahmen der kinderpsychiatrischen Behandlung
Authors: Briegel Wolfgang , Job Ann-Katrin , Hahlweg Kurt
Published: November 2013

Hintergrund: Untersucht wurde die Akzeptanz eines zeitlich adaptierten Triple P-Elterngruppentrainings im Rahmen der kinderpsychiatrischen Behandlung. Methodik: 39 Mütter und 14 Väter von 40 Kindern im Alter von 4-11 Jahren, die überwiegend eine expansive Störung aufwiesen, nahmen an der Studie teil. 21 Familien wiesen einen niedrigen sozioökonomischen Status auf, nur 2 einen hohen. 22 Kinder befanden sich zu Beginn des jeweiligen Elternkurses in ambulanter, 14 in tagesklinischer und 4 in stationärer Behandlung. Die Zufriedenheit der Eltern nach Kursende wurde mit einer deutschen Version des «Client Satisfaction Questionnaire» (CSQ) erfasst. Mit einem eigens konzipierten Fragebogen wurde 6 Monate nach Trainingsende untersucht, wie häufig die Eltern die vermittelten Strategien noch einsetzten. Ergebnisse: 39 der 40 Familien beendeten das Elterntraining regulär, von diesen bewerteten alle das Programm als gut bis hervorragend. Es fanden sich für die Kurszufriedenheit keine signifikanten Unterschiede in Abhängigkeit vom sozioökonomischen Status, dem Behandlungssetting oder der ICD-10-Diagnose. Bei einer Dropout-Rate von 22,6% 6 Monate nach Kursende setzten noch 90% der Eltern etwa die Hälfte der vermittelten Erziehungsstrategien gelegentlich bis regelmäßig ein. Schlussfolgerungen: Ein zeitlich adaptiertes Triple P-Elterngruppentraining wird im Rahmen der kinderpsychiatrischen Behandlung gut angenommen, auch von Familien mit niedrigem sozioökonomischen Status.
Activation of NAD(P)H Oxidase by Tryptophan-Derived 3-Hydroxykynurenine Accelerates Endothelial Apoptosis and Dysfunction In Vivo
Authors: Wang Qiongxin , Zhang Miao , Ding Ye , Wang Qilong , Zhang Wencheng , Song Ping , Zou Ming-Hui
Published: November 2013

Rationale:

The kynurenine (Kyn) pathway is the major route for tryptophan (Trp) metabolism in mammals. The Trp–Kyn pathway is reported to regulate several fundamental biological processes, including cell death.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to elucidate the contributions and molecular mechanism of Trp–Kyn pathway to endothelial cell death.

Methods and Results:

Endogenous reactive oxygen species, endothelial cell apoptosis, and endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasorelaxation were measured in aortas of wild-type mice or mice deficient for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate [NAD(P)H] oxidase subunits (p47
phox
or gp91
phox
) or indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase 1 with or without angiotensin (Ang) II infusion. As expected, AngII increased plasma levels of Kyn- and 3-hydroxykynurenine–modified proteins in endothelial cells in vivo. Consistent with this, AngII markedly increased the expression of indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase in parallel with increased expression of interferon-γ. Furthermore, in wild-type mice, AngII significantly increased oxidative stress, endothelial cell apoptosis, and endothelial dysfunction. These effects of AngII infusion were significantly suppressed in mice deficient for p47
phox
, gp91
phox
, or indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase 1, suggesting that AngII-induced enhancement of Kynurenines via NAD(P)H oxidase–derived oxidants causes endothelial cell apoptosis and dysfunction in vivo. Furthermore, interferon-γ neutralization eliminates AngII-increased superoxide products and endothelial apoptosis by inhibiting AngII-induced Kynurenines generation, suggesting that AngII-activated Kyn pathway is interferon-γ–dependent. Mechanistically, we found that AngII-enhanced 3-hydroxykynurenine promoted the generation of NAD(P)H oxidase–mediated superoxide anions by increasing the translocation and membrane assembly of NAD(P)H oxidase subunits in endothelial cells, resulting in accelerated apoptosis and consequent endothelial dysfunction.

Conclusions:

Kyn pathway activation accelerates apoptosis and dysfunction of the endothelium by upregulating NAD(P)H-derived superoxide.
The Echo Score Revisited
Authors: Nunes Maria Carmo P. , Tan Timothy C. , Elmariah Sammy , do Lago Rodrigo , Margey Ronan , Cruz-Gonzalez Ignacio , Zheng Hui , Handschumacher Mark D. , Inglessis Ignacio , Palacios Igor F. , Weyman Arthur E. , Hung Judy
Published: November 2013

Background—

Current echocardiographic scoring systems for percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) have limitations. This study examined new, more quantitative methods for assessing valvular involvement and the combination of parameters that best predicts immediate and long-term outcome after PMV.

Methods and Results—

Two cohorts (derivation n=204 and validation n=121) of patients with symptomatic mitral stenosis undergoing PMV were studied. Mitral valve morphology was assessed by using both the conventional Wilkins qualitative parameters and novel quantitative parameters, including the ratio between the commissural areas and the maximal excursion of the leaflets from the annulus in diastole. Independent predictors of outcome were assigned a points value proportional to their regression coefficients: mitral valve area ≤1 cm
2
(2), maximum leaflets displacement ≤12 mm (3), commissural area ratio ≥1.25 (3), and subvalvular involvement (3). Three risk groups were defined: low (score of 0–3), intermediate (score of 5), and high (score of 6–11) with observed suboptimal PMV results of 16.9%, 56.3%, and 73.8%, respectively. The use of the same scoring system in the validation cohort yielded suboptimal PMV results of 11.8%, 72.7%, and 87.5% in the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups, respectively. The model improved risk classification in comparison with the Wilkins score (net reclassification improvement 45.2%;
P
<0.0001). Long-term outcome was predicted by age and postprocedural variables, including mitral regurgitation, mean gradient, and pulmonary pressure.

Conclusions—

A scoring system incorporating new quantitative echocardiographic parameters more accurately predicts outcome following PMV than existing models. Long-term post-PMV event-free survival was predicted by age, degree of mitral regurgitation, and postprocedural hemodynamic data.
Fecenia travancoria Pocock is recognised as a junior synonym of Fecenia protensa Thorell (Araneae: Psechridae): A case of intraspecific variation
Authors: MALAMEL JOBI J. , PRADEEP MOOTHEDATHU S. , SEBASTIAN POTHALIL A.
Published: November 2013

The spider genus Fecenia was erected by Simon (1887). Together with the genus Psechrus Thorell, 1878, Fecenia Simon, 1887 belongs to the family Psechridae Simon, 1890 (Platnick 2013), a group of araneomorph, entelegyne and cribellate spiders (Bayer and Jäger 2010). The presence of this spider genus in India, which belongs to the Lycosoidea within the retrolateral tibial apophysis (RTA)-clade (Griswold 1993; Griswold et al. 2005; Bayer and Schönhofer 2013), was first noticed by Thorell (1891), who described Fecenia protensa Thorell, 1891 from the Nicobar Islands. In 1899, Pocock (1899) described a second species, Fecenia travancoria from Kerala, a state in the south-west of India. Bayer (2011) recently revised the genus and proposed two junior synonyms for F. protensa: F. sumatrana Kulczyński, 1908 and F. nicobarensis Tikader, 1977. He also pointed out the striking similarities of the females of F. protensa and F. travancoria. Nevertheless, he provided ways to distinguish the females by very fine character differences of the vulva and listed five valid species for the genus (Fecenia) (Bayer 2011). Bayer & Schönhofer (2013) investigated the molecular taxonomy based on DNA sequence data from the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene of Fecenia specimens from all species described so far (except F. macilenta Simon, 1885) and found out that the COI sequence variation between specimens of F. travancoria and F. protensa was less than 4.7 %, whereas the COI sequence variation between other Fecenia spp. was at least 9%. They suggested that their findings indicated the synonymy of F. travancoria with F. protensa , but the male and further material of F. travancoria from the region of the type locality was unknown to them. Consequently, they did not propose a synonymy of these two species. Even though Sebastian and Peter (2009) described the female of F. travancoria from Kerala region, they neither provided any information about its male nor any information about intraspecific variation within its females. In the present paper, we describe and illustrate male Fecenia specimens from the region of the type locality of F. travancoria for the first time and by doing so, we are able to provide evidence for the synonymy of F. travancoria with F. protensa.
Armadillogorgia albertoi sp. nov.: a new primnoid from the Argentinean deep sea
Authors: CERINO NADIA , LAURETTA DANIEL
Published: November 2013

Eleven specimens of a new species of primnoid from the Argentinean deep sea are here presented. Armadillogorgia albertoi sp. nov. differs from A. cyathella Bayer, 1980 in colony and polyp morphology, abaxial sclerite number and shape. It is the second species of the hitherto monospecific genus, and the northernmost record of the genus.
Redescription of Osmylus multiguttatus McLachlan, 1870 (Neuroptera: Osmylidae) with distributional remarks
Authors: CANBULAT SAVAŞ
Published: November 2013

Osmylus multiguttatus McLachlan, 1870 has recently been rediscovered in the Middle Anatolia. Redescription of the male and female is presented. Faunistic data and habitat are provided. Photograph of wings, drawings of male and female external and internal genitalia are illustrated for the first time. The distribution map with new recording sites and recent data is also given. A preliminary key to species of Osmylus is presented.
A Novel Multiscale Intensity Metric for Evaluation of Tropical Cyclone Intensity Forecasts
Authors: Vukicevic Tomislava , Uhlhorn Eric , Reasor Paul , Klotz Bradley
Published: November 2013

In this study, a new multiscale intensity (MSI) metric for evaluating tropical cyclone (TC) intensity forecasts is presented. The metric consists of the resolvable and observable, low-wavenumber intensity represented by the sum of amplitudes of azimuthal wavenumbers 0 and 1 for wind speed within the TC vortex at the radius of maximum wind and a stochastic residual, all determined at 10-m elevation. The residual wind speed is defined as the difference between an estimate of maximum speed and the low-wavenumber intensity. The MSI metric is compared to the standard metric that includes only the maximum speed. Using stepped-frequency microwave radiometer wind speed observations from TC aircraft reconnaissance to estimate the low-wavenumber intensity and the National Hurricane Center’s best-track (BT) intensity for the maximum wind speed estimate, it is shown that the residual intensity is well represented as a stochastic quantity with small mean, standard deviation, and absolute norm values that are within the expected uncertainty of the BT estimates. The result strongly suggests that the practical predictability of TC intensity is determined by the observable and resolvable low-wavenumber intensity within the vortex. Verification of a set of high-resolution numerical forecasts using the MSI metric demonstrates that this metric provides more informative and more realistic estimates of the intensity forecast errors. It is also shown that the maximum speed metric allows for error compensation between the low-wavenumber and residual intensities, which could lead to forecast skill overestimation and inaccurate assessment of the impact of forecast system change on the skill.
Subcloud-Layer Feedbacks Driven by the Mass Flux of Shallow Cumulus Convection over Land
Authors: van Stratum Bart J. H. , Vilá-Guerau de Arellano Jordi , van Heerwaarden Chiel C. , Ouwersloot Huug G.
Published: November 2013

The processes and feedbacks associated with the mass flux of shallow cumulus clouds over land are studied by analyzing the results from large-eddy simulations and a mixed-layer model. The primary focus is to study the development of the (well mixed) subcloud layer and understand the four primary feedbacks between the subcloud-layer dynamics and cumulus mass flux. Guided by numerical experiments in large-eddy simulations that show the transition from clear to cloudy boundary layers at midlatitudes over land, the feedbacks introduced by shallow cumuli are first conceptually described. To study the complex interplay between the subcloud and cloud layer, a mixed-layer model is proposed and validated with large-eddy simulations for the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Southern Great Plains case. The mixed-layer model is shown to identify and reproduce the most relevant feedbacks in the transition from clear to cloudy boundary layers: a reduced mixed-layer growth and drying of the subcloud layer by enhanced entrainment and mass flux transport of moisture to the cloud layer. To complete the study, the strength of the different feedbacks is further quantified by an analysis of the individual contributions to the tendency of the relative humidity at the top of the mixed layer.
Using Eulerian and Lagrangian Approaches to Investigate Wind-Driven Changes in the Southern Ocean Abyssal Circulation
Authors: Spence Paul , van Sebille Erik , Saenko Oleg A. , England Matthew H.
Published: November 2013

This study uses a global ocean eddy-permitting climate model to explore the export of abyssal water from the Southern Ocean and its sensitivity to projected twenty-first-century poleward-intensifying Southern Ocean wind stress. The abyssal flow pathways and transport are investigated using a combination of Lagrangian and Eulerian techniques. In an Eulerian format, the equator- and poleward flows within similar abyssal density classes are increased by the wind stress changes, making it difficult to explicitly diagnose changes in the abyssal export in a meridional overturning circulation framework. Lagrangian particle analyses are used to identify the major export pathways of Southern Ocean abyssal waters and reveal an increase in the number of particles exported to the subtropics from source regions around Antarctica in response to the wind forcing. Both the Lagrangian particle and Eulerian analyses identify transients as playing a key role in the abyssal export of water from the Southern Ocean. Wind-driven modifications to the potential energy component of the vorticity balance in the abyss are also found to impact the Southern Ocean barotropic circulation.