bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using acoustic telemetry to observe the effects of a groundfish predator (Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua) on movement of the American lobster (Homarus americanus)
Authors: McMahan Marissa D. , Brady Damian C. , Cowan Diane F. , Grabowski Jonathan H. , Sherwood Graham D.
Published: August 2013

American lobster (Homarus americanus) landings have more than quadrupled in the last two decades (1990–2010), coinciding with the collapse of Gulf of Maine groundfish fisheries such as Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). Recently there has been speculation that the release of lobster from predatory control may have resulted in both lower predation rates and increased foraging areas. We used fine-scale acoustic telemetry within a 200 m × 250 m field enclosure to test the hypothesis that cod induce lobsters to decrease movement and seek refuge. We found a large amount of variation in the behavioral response of individual lobsters to predators; however, the addition of cod into the enclosure reduced maximum daily home range area and significantly reduced the distance traveled from shelter habitat area for all individuals. When predators were removed from the enclosure, lobsters responded by increasing home range area and significantly increasing the distance traveled from shelter habitat area. These results represent the first experimental evidence for American lobster range contraction and subsequent expansion in the presence and absence of cod, respectively.
AN OPERATOR PRODUCT EXPANSION ANALYSIS OF e+e-ANNIHILATION DATA
Authors: SPIESBERGER HUBERT
Published: August 2013

Perturbative Quantum Chromodynamics combined with the operator product expansion is expected to provide a framework for the description of phenomena in hadron interactions including contributions of nonperturbative origin. Applied to the correlator of two electromagnetic currents, this framework can be confronted with e+e-annihilation into hadrons. Data from the total hadronic e+e-cross-section have become much more precise in recent years and the power corrections in the operator product expansion, i.e. the vacuum condensates are expected to be determined with higher precision than previously. We present an analysis of the condensates of dimensions d = 2, 4 and 6 and find reasonably stable results, though still within rather large errors. Our results are in agreement with values obtained from τ-decay. It also appears that the separation into isovector and isoscalar pieces introduces additional uncertainties and errors.
THE MASS OF THE TWO LIGHTEST QUARKS
Authors: LEUTWYLER H.
Published: August 2013

The problems encountered in the determination of mu and md are discussed. While their sum is known quite well, the difference md-mu, which measures the breaking of isospin symmetry in the QCD Lagrangian, is still subject to significant uncertainties. I focus on recent work based on the dispersive analysis of the decay η→3π, which offers a good handle on isospin breaking, because in that transition, the contributions from the e.m. interaction are suppressed.
RIEMANN ZEROS AND THE INVERSE PHASE PROBLEM
Authors: TOURIGNY DAVID S.
Published: August 2013

Finding a universal method of crystal structure solution and proving the Riemann hypothesis are two outstanding challenges in apparently unrelated fields. For centro-symmetric crystals however, a connection arises as the result of a statistical approach to the inverse phase problem. It is shown that parameters of the phase distribution are related to the non-trivial Riemann zeros by a Mellin transform.
UNCERTAIN LINGUISTIC PRIORITIZED AGGREGATION OPERATORS AND THEIR APPLICATION TO MULTIPLE ATTRIBUTE GROUP DECISION MAKING
Authors: ZHOU L. Y. , LIN R. , ZHAO X. F. , WEI G. W.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we investigate the uncertain linguistic multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problems in which the attributes and experts are in different priority level. Motivated by the idea of prioritized aggregation operators (R. R. Yager, Prioritized aggregation operators, Int. J. Approximate Reasoning48 (2008) 263–274.), we develop some prioritized aggregation operators for aggregating uncertain linguistic information, and then apply them to develops some models for uncertain linguistic multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problems in which the attributes and experts are in different priority level. Finally, a practical example about talent introduction is given to verify the developed approach and to demonstrate its practicality and effectiveness.
DYNAMIC BAYESIAN CLUSTERING
Authors: FOWLER ANNA , MENON VILAS , HEARD NICHOLAS A.
Published: August 2013

Clusters of time series data may change location and memberships over time; in gene expression data, this occurs as groups of genes or samples respond differently to stimuli or experimental conditions at different times. In order to uncover this underlying temporal structure, we consider dynamic clusters with time-dependent parameters which split and merge over time, enabling cluster memberships to change. These interesting time-dependent structures are useful in understanding the development of organisms or complex organs, and could not be identified using traditional clustering methods. In cell cycle data, these time-dependent structure may provide links between genes and stages of the cell cycle, whilst in developmental data sets they may highlight key developmental transitions.
On spacelike curves in hyperbolic space times sphere
Authors: Kong Lingling , Pei Donghe
Published: August 2013

The main goal of this paper is to study singularities of lightlike surfaces and focal surfaces of spacelike curves in Hyperbolic space times sphere. To do that, we construct a de Sitter height function and a Lightcone height function, and then show the relation between singularities of the lightlike surfaces (respectively, the focal surfaces) and that of the de Sitter height functions (respectively, the Lightcone height functions). In addition, some geometry properties of the spacelike curves are studied from geometric point of view.
A Rare Case Report of Amlodipine-Induced Gingival Enlargement and Review of Its Pathogenesis
Authors: Joshi Sanjeev , Bansal Sucheta
Published: August 2013

Gingival enlargement is a common clinical feature of gingival and periodontal diseases. It is an unwanted side effect of certain systemic drugs given for nondental treatment. It is being reported with three main groups of drugs like calcium channel blockers (CCBs), immunosuppressants, and anticonvulsants. Among calcium channel blockers, nifedipine causes gingival hyperplasia in about 10% of patients, whereas the incidence of amlodipine-, a third generation calcium channel blocker, induced gingival hyperplasia is very limited. There are very few reports of amlodipine-induced gingival enlargement at a dose of 5 mg. We report a case of amlodipine-induced gingival enlargement in a 45-year-old hypertensive patient taking amlodipine at a dose of 5 mg.
Simulated Microgravity Combined with Polyglycolic Acid Scaffold Culture Conditions Improves the Function of Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Song Yimin , Wei Zheng , Song Chun , Xie Shanshan , Feng Jinfa , Fan Jiehou , Zhang Zengling , Shi Yubo
Published: August 2013

Thein vitroculture of pancreatic islets reduces their immunogenicity and prolongs their availability for transplantation. Both simulated microgravity (sMG) and a polyglycolic acid scaffold (PGA) are believed to confer advantages to cell culture. Here, we evaluated the effects of sMG combined with a PGA on the viability, insulin-producing activity and morphological alterations of pancreatic islets. Under PGA-sMG conditions, the purity of the islets was ≥85%, and the islets had a higher survival rate and an increased ability to secrete insulin compared with islets cultured alone in the static, sMG, or PGA conditions. In addition, morphological analysis under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the PGA-sMG treatment preserved the integral structure of the islets and facilitated islet adhesion to the scaffolds. These results suggest that PGA-sMG coculture has the potential to improve the viability and function of isletsin vitroand provides a promising method for islet transplantation.
A New Fractional Order Hold and Its Capability in Frequency Response and Zero Placement
Authors: Hashemzadeh Farzad , Rezaei Pish-Robat Amin , Jabehdar-Maralani Parviz
Published: August 2013

This paper introduces a new holder with application on digital control systems. This holder is a combination of fractional order hold (FROH) and zero-order hold (ZOH) that has the capability of both holders and a frequency response better than both of ZOH and FROH. For the stability of zeros of the sampled system two theorems are stated and proved with the assumption that the sampling period is very small. Also simulation results are studied to show the effectiveness of the proposed holder and better performance results in comparison with ZOH and FROH.
Potential Osteoporosis Recovery by Deep Sea Water through Bone Regeneration in SAMP8 Mice
Authors: Liu Hen-Yu , Liu Ming-Che , Wang Ming-Fu , Chen Wei-Hong , Tsai Ching-Yu , Wu Kuan-Hsien , Lin Che-Tong , Shieh Ying-Hua , Zeng Rong , Deng Win-Ping
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study is to examine the therapeutic potential of deep sea water (DSW) on osteoporosis. Previously, we have established the ovariectomized senescence-accelerated mice (OVX-SAMP8) and demonstrated strong recovery of osteoporosis by stem cell and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Deep sea water at hardness (HD) 1000 showed significant increase in proliferation of osteoblastic cell (MC3T3) by MTT assay. Forin vivoanimal study, bone mineral density (BMD) was strongly enhanced followed by the significantly increased trabecular numbers through micro-CT examination after a 4-month deep sea water treatment, and biochemistry analysis showed that serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was decreased. For stage-specific osteogenesis, bone marrow-derived stromal cells (BMSCs) were harvested and examined. Deep sea water-treated BMSCs showed stronger osteogenic differentiation such as BMP2, RUNX2, OPN, and OCN, and enhanced colony forming abilities, compared to the control group. Interestingly, most untreated OVX-SAMP8 mice died around 10 months; however, approximately 57% of DSW-treated groups lived up to 16.6 months, a life expectancy similar to the previously reported life expectancy for SAMR1 24 months. The results demonstrated the regenerative potentials of deep sea water on osteogenesis, showing that deep sea water could potentially be applied in osteoporosis therapy as a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
A Comparative Study on Diadochokinetic Skill of Dyslexic, Stuttering, and Normal Children
Authors: Malek Ayyoub , Amiri Shahrokh , Hekmati Issa , Pirzadeh Jaber , Gholizadeh Hossein
Published: August 2013

Objective. Previous studies have shown some motor deficits among stuttering and dyslexic children. While motor deficits in speech articulation of the stuttering children are among the controversial topics, no study on motor deficits of dyslexic children has been documented to date. Methods. 120 children (40 stuttering, 40 dyslexia, and 40 normal) 6–11 years old were matched and compared in terms of diadochokinetic skill. Dyslexia symptoms checklist, reading test, and diadochokinetic task were used as measurement instruments. Results. The data analysis showed that there are significant differences (P<0.001) in reaction time and the number of syllables in accomplishing diadochokinetic tasks among stuttering children, dyslexics, and the control group. This indicates that stuttering children and dyslexics have poor performance in reaction time and in the number of monosyllable articulation and long syllable articulation. Furthermore, there are significant differences (P<0.001) in these indices between stuttering children and dyslexics, so that the latter group have better performance than the former one. Conclusion. The findings indicate that stuttering children and dyslexics have deficits in diadochokinetic skill which suggests their low performance in the motor control of speech production and articulation. Such deficits might be due to the role of the tongue in the development of stuttering and dyslexia.
Development and Functional Evaluation of an Upper Extremity Rehabilitation System Based on Inertial Sensors and Virtual Reality
Authors: Kim Je-Nam , Ryu Mun-Ho , Choi Ho-Rim , Yang Yoon-Seok , Kim Tae-Koon
Published: August 2013

An extremity rehabilitation program was proposed based on inertial measurement units (IMU) and virtual reality. A single IMU consists of a three-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and geomagnetic sensors. One IMU is attached to the upper arm (master) and another to the forearm (slave). The IMUs are connected using a distributed sensor network implemented with interintegrated circuit communication. The motion-tracking algorithm running on a PC tracks the subject's hand based on the estimated IMU orientation and segment lengths through forward kinematics. The training contents, including various dynamic movements and static holds, were designed to evaluate the spatiotemporal aspects of the subject's functionality. The system was tested on a group of healthy subjects and a group with a simulated stiff elbow, allowing the evaluations to be quantitatively differentiated. The stiff elbow was simulated by taping the elbow to restrict the range of elbow motion. We expect the patients to be able to assess their own status without assistance from a therapist and select appropriate training methods to increase their rehabilitation effectiveness. Future studies will verify the availability and reliability of the upper extremity rehabilitation program for patients with a hemiplegia, leading to the development of an upper extremity rehabilitation program for three-dimensional movements of the upper extremities.
What Do Resource-Oriented Approaches Mean to General Practitioners and How Can They Be Facilitated in Primary Care? A Qualitative Study
Authors: Prüfer Franziska , Joos Stefanie , Miksch Antje
Published: August 2013

Although resource orientation, as a part of health promotion, should play a major role in general practice, the anchoring and realization of resource-oriented approaches remain small in Germany. The aim of this study was to analyze what resource orientation means to general practitioners (GPs) and develop strategies as to how this can be facilitated in GP practice. Within a qualitative research approach, 19 semi-structured telephone interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Within the interviews, the inclusion of the patients’ individual resources is described as core competence of GPs. Supporting the patients’ disease coping strategies and self-help were seen as important by GPs. However, perceptions as to which resources are considered to be fundamental ranged widely across the participant group. The results confirm the important role of resource-oriented approaches in general practice. However, a general definition of resource orientation is needed. In addition, working conditions for GPs need to be taken into account to ensure that these contribute to a healthy work-life balance. The need for GP training was identified to improve communication skills. Further integration of GPs in health promotion and communal structures would be beneficial.
Bi‐SO3H Functionalized Ionic Liquid Based on DABCO: New and Efficient Catalyst for Facile Synthesis of Dihydropyrimidinones
Authors: Nemati Firouzeh , Alizadeh Sara G.
Published: August 2013

A simple and efficient method for the one‐pot Biginelli condensation reaction of aldehydes, β‐dicarbonyl compounds, and urea or thiourea employing [DABCO](SO3H)2Cl2 as a novel ionic liquid catalyst is described.
A Linear Stability Analysis of Thermal Convection in a Fluid Layer with Simultaneous Rotation and Magnetic Field Acting in Different Directions
Authors: Avila Ruben , Cabello Ares
Published: August 2013

The onset of thermal convection of a Boussinesq fluid located in an unbounded layer heated from below and subject simultaneously to rotation and magnetic field, whose vectors act in different directions, is presented. To the knowledge of the authors, the convective thermal instability analysis for this complex problem has not been previously reported. In this paper, we use the Tau Chebyshev spectral method to calculate the value of the critical parameters (wave number and Rayleigh number at the onset of convection) as a function of (i) different kinds of boundaries, (ii) angle between the three vectors, and (iii) different values of the Taylor numberT(rate of rotation) and magnetic parameterQ(strength of the magnetic force). For the classical problems previously reported in the literature, we compare our calculations with Chandrasekhar’s variational method results and show that the present method is applicable.
Doubly Constrained Robust Blind Beamforming Algorithm
Authors: Song Xin , Ren Jingguo , Li Qiuming
Published: August 2013

We propose doubly constrained robust least-squares constant modulus algorithm (LSCMA) to solve the problem of signal steering vector mismatches via the Bayesian method and worst-case performance optimization, which is based on the mismatches between the actual and presumed steering vectors. The weight vector is iteratively updated with penalty for the worst-case signal steering vector by the partial Taylor-series expansion and Lagrange multiplier method, in which the Lagrange multipliers can be optimally derived and incorporated at each step. A theoretical analysis for our proposed algorithm in terms of complexity cost, convergence performance, and SINR performance is presented in this paper. In contrast to the linearly constrained LSCMA, the proposed algorithm provides better robustness against the signal steering vector mismatches, yields higher signal captive performance, improves greater array output SINR, and has a lower computational cost. The simulation results confirm the superiority of the proposed algorithm on beampattern control and output SINR enhancement.
Takayasu Arteritis: Criteria for Surgical Intervention Should Not Be Ignored
Authors: Perera A. H. , Mason J. C. , Wolfe J. H.
Published: August 2013

Takayasu aortoarteritis is a rare, chronic granulomatous panarteritis with significant morbidity amongst young patients. Current challenges include a lack of awareness about the condition, delays in diagnosis due to its varied presentation, and suboptimal methods for assessing disease activity. The development of noninvasive imaging including magnetic resonance angiography and positron emission tomography is aiding earlier diagnosis. Early initiation of immunosuppressive treatment is crucial to control active inflammation and minimize arterial injury. Recent studies investigating biological agents such as tumour necrosis factor-αantagonists are encouraging. Surgical revascularization should only be undertaken following careful consideration, as restenosis is common. The indications for considering intervention include uncontrolled hypertension due to renal artery stenosis, severe symptomatic coronary artery or cerebrovascular disease, severe aortic regurgitation, stenotic or occlusive lesions resulting in critical limb ischemia, and aneurysms at risk of rupture. In these cases, the risk benefit ratio for intervention is good. Open surgery, at present, has better outcomes compared to endovascular techniques. However, technological advances in endovascular treatment are continually improving. Controlling disease activity prior to and following revascularization is key to preventing complications. A multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of Takayasu arteritis is essential to achieve satisfactory patient outcomes.
Wild Animals Used as Food Medicine in Brazil
Authors: Alves Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega , Oliveira Tacyana Pereira Ribeiro , Rosa Ierecê Lucena
Published: August 2013

The connection between eating and healing is common in traditional folk medical systems, and the multiple possibilities resulting from the combination of biodiversity and culture confer a wealth and complexity in terms of knowledge of the flora and fauna as to their potential as food medicine. The growing awareness of the links between traditional therapeutic-alimentary uses of wildlife and conservation has drawn attention to the gaps in knowledge on the social, economic, and biological contexts in which different forms of traditional wildlife uses take place, particularly with regard to zootherapeutic resources. In this study we interviewed 124 merchants and 203 traditional users of animal-derived remedies in Brazil, aiming at documenting the animal species used as foods and medicines in urban and rural areas of the country. At least 354 wild animal species are used in Brazilian traditional medicine, of which 157 are also used as food. The high degree of overlap between medicinal and alimentary uses of wild animals highlights the importance of understanding the socioeconomic, cultural, and ecological contexts in which those traditional uses take place for elucidating their potential impact on public health and biodiversity conservation.
Development of a New Research Platform for Electrical Drive System Modelling for Real-Time Digital Simulation Applications
Authors: Umashankar S. , Bhalekar Mandar , Chandra Surabhi , Vijayakumar D. , Kothari D. P.
Published: August 2013

This paper presents the research platform for real-time digital simulation applications which replaces the requirement for full-scale or partial-scale validation of physical systems. To illustrate this, a three-phase AC-DC-AC converter topology has been used consists of diode rectifier, DC link, and an IGBT inverter with inductive load. In this topology, rectifier as well as inverter decoupled and solved separately using decoupled method, which results in the reduced order system so that it is easy to solve the state equation. This method utilizes an analytical approach to formulate the state equations, and interpolation methods have been implemented to rectify the zero-crossing errors, with fixed step size of 100 μsec is used. The proposed algorithm and the model have been validated using MATLAB simulation as m-file program and also in real-time DSP controller domain. The performance of the real-time system model is evaluated based on accuracy, zero crossing, and step size.
Updates on Antiobesity Effect ofGarciniaOrigin (−)-HCA
Authors: Chuah Li Oon , Ho Wan Yong , Beh Boon Kee , Yeap Swee Keong
Published: August 2013

Garciniais a plant under the family of Clusiaceae that is commonly used as a flavouring agent. Various phytochemicals including flavonoids and organic acid have been identified in this plant. Among all types of organic acids, hydroxycitric acid or more specifically (−)-hydroxycitric acid has been identified as a potential supplement for weight management and as antiobesity agent. Variousin vivostudies have contributed to the understanding of the anti-obesity effects ofGarcinia/hydroxycitric acid via regulation of serotonin level and glucose uptake. Besides, it also helps to enhance fat oxidation while reducingde novolipogenesis. However, results from clinical studies showed both negative and positive antiobesity effects ofGarcinia/hydroxycitric acid. This review was prepared to summarise the update of chemical constituents, significance ofin vivo/clinical anti-obesity effects, and the importance of the current market potential ofGarcinia/hydroxycitric acid.
Effect of Plasticizers on Structural and Dielectric Behaviour of [PEO + (NH4)2C4H8(COO)2] Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Pandey Kamlesh , Asthana Nidhi , Dwivedi Mrigank Mauli , Chaturvedi S. K.
Published: August 2013

Improvements in ion transport property of polyethylene-oxide- (PEO-) based polymer electrolytes have been investigated, using different types of plasticizers. The effects of single and coupled plasticizers [i.e., EC, (EC + PC), and (EC + PEG)] on structural and electrical behavior of pristine electrolyte were studied by XRD, SEM technique, and impedance spectroscopy. The electrical conductivity of the best plasticized system was found to be 4 × 10−6 S/cm. Argand plots show dispersive nature of relaxation time or inhomogeneous space charge polarization of plasticized polymer electrolyte.
Exponential Stability and Numerical Methods of Stochastic Recurrent Neural Networks with Delays
Authors: Kuang Shifang , Peng Yunjian , Deng Feiqi , Gao Wenhua
Published: August 2013

Exponential stability in mean square of stochastic delay recurrent neural networks is investigated in detail. By using Itô’s formula and inequality techniques, the sufficient conditions to guarantee the exponential stability in mean square of an equilibrium are given. Under the conditions which guarantee the stability of the analytical solution, the Euler-Maruyama scheme and the split-step backward Euler scheme are proved to be mean-square stable. At last, an example is given to demonstrate our results.
Infuence of Microstructure in Drug Release Behavior of Silica Nanocapsules
Authors: Gonzalez Gema , Sagarzazu Amaya , Zoltan Tamara
Published: August 2013

Meso- and nanoporous structures are adequate matrices for controlled drug delivery systems, due to their large surface areas and to their bioactive and biocompatibility properties. Mesoporous materials of type SBA-15, synthesized under different pH conditions, and zeolite beta were studied in order to compare the different intrinsic morphological characteristics as pore size, pore connectivity, and pore geometry on the drug loading and release process. These materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and calorimetric measurements. Ibuprofen (IBU) was chosen as a model drug for the formulation of controlled-release dosage forms; it was impregnated into these two types of materials by a soaking procedure during different periods. Drug loading and release studies were followed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. All nano- and mesostructured materials showed a similar loading behavior. It was found that the pore size and Al content strongly influenced the release process. These results suggest that the framework structure and architecture affect the drug adsorption and release properties of these materials. Both materials offer a good potential for a controlled delivery system of ibuprofen.
Preparation and Characterization of Nanocrystalline CuS Thin Films for Dye-Sensitized Solar cells
Authors: Sangamesha M. A. , Pushpalatha K. , Shekar G. L. , Shamsundar S.
Published: August 2013

A dye-sensitized nanocrystalline copper sulphide (CuS) solar cell is developed using crystal violet (CV) as a photosensitizer. Nanocrystalline CuS thin film is deposited on indium tin oxide- (ITO-) coated glass substrate by chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique. These thin films are characterized for their structural, optical and electrical properties using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Optical absorbance measurements from UV-visible spectrometer at normal incidence of light in the wavelength range of 320–1100 nm and current-voltage (I-V) measurements were also made. The deposited CuS thin film on ITO-coated glass substrate may be used as a photo electrode in the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). The carbon soot collected on the substrate is used as a counter electrode. The counter electrode coupled with a dye-sensitized CuS thin film along with a redox electrolyte mixture is used to develop a complete photovoltaic cell. The fill factor and efficiency were evaluated for the developed DSSC.
Dyskeratosis Congenita: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Karunakaran Anila , Ravindran Rathy , Arshad Mohammed , Ram M. Kodanda , Laxmi M. K. Shruthi
Published: August 2013

Oral manifestations play an important role in the diagnosis of many systemic conditions. Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) is a rare genodermatosis which exhibits oral leukoplakia, nail dystrophy, and reticular skin pigmentations as its primary features. DC has increased risk of developing constitutional anemias and malignancies and early diagnosis enables the patient to be monitored and proper interventional therapy to be instituted. Hence, dentists need to be aware of the various manifestations of this fatal syndrome. Only few cases have been reported on DC in the dental literature. Two cases of DC are reported here with a brief review of the literature.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Therapies and Gut Function in a Colitis Mouse Model
Authors: Nahidi Lily , Leach Steven T. , Mitchell Hazel M. , Kaakoush Nadeem O. , Lemberg Daniel A. , Munday John S. , Huinao Karina , Day Andrew S.
Published: August 2013

Background. Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is a well-established approach to the management of Crohn’s disease.Aim. To determine effects of EEN upon inflammation and gut barrier function in a colitis mouse model.Methods. Interleukin-10-deficient mice (IL-10−/−) were inoculated withHelicobacter trogontumand then treated with EEN, metronidazole, hydrocortisone, or EEN and metronidazole combination. Blood and tissue were collected at 2 and 4 weeks with histology, mucosal integrity, tight junction integrity, inflammation, andH. trogontumload evaluated.Results.H. trogontuminduced colitis in IL-10−/−mice with histological changes in the cecum and colon. Elevated mucosal IL-8 mRNA in infected mice was associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction indicated by decreased transepithelial electrical resistance and mRNA of tight junction proteins and increased short-circuit current, myosin light chain kinase mRNA, paracellular permeability, and tumor necrosis factor-αand myeloperoxidase plasma levels (P<0.01for all comparisons). EEN and metronidazole, but not hydrocortisone, treatments restored barrier function, maintained gut barrier integrity, and reversed inflammatory changes along with reduction ofH. trogontumload (versus infected controlsP<0.05).Conclusion.H. trogontuminfection in IL-10−/−mice induced typhlocolitis with intestinal barrier dysfunction. EEN and metronidazole, but not hydrocortisone, modulate barrier dysfunction and reversal of inflammatory changes.
The Effectiveness of Feature Selection Method in Solar Power Prediction
Authors: Hossain Md Rahat , Oo Amanullah Maung Than , Ali A. B. M. Shawkat
Published: August 2013

This paper empirically shows that the effect of applying selected feature subsets on machine learning techniques significantly improves the accuracy for solar power prediction. Experiments are performed using five well-known wrapper feature selection methods to obtain the solar power prediction accuracy of machine learning techniques with selected feature subsets. For all the experiments, the machine learning techniques, namely, least median square (LMS), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and support vector machine (SVM), are used. Afterwards, these results are compared with the solar power prediction accuracy of those same machine leaning techniques (i.e., LMS, MLP, and SVM) but without applying feature selection methods (WAFS). Experiments are carried out using reliable and real life historical meteorological data. The comparison between the results clearly shows that LMS, MLP, and SVM provide better prediction accuracy (i.e., reduced MAE and MASE) with selected feature subsets than without selected feature subsets. Experimental results of this paper facilitate to make a concrete verdict that providing more attention and effort towards the feature subset selection aspect (e.g., selected feature subsets on prediction accuracy which is investigated in this paper) can significantly contribute to improve the accuracy of solar power prediction.
Optimum Rotation Speed for the Friction Stir Welding of Pure Copper
Authors: Jabbari Masoud , Tutum Cem C.
Published: August 2013

The friction stir welding (FSW) was conducted in the pure copper plates with the thickness of 4 mm in the constant traverse speed of 25 mm/min and five different rotation speeds. Analysis of metallographic images showed that the increasing of the rotation speed results in the increase of grain size in the nugget zone. Vickers hardness tests were conducted on the weld samples and the maximum hardness obtained in rotation speed of 900 rpm. Results of the tensile tests and their comparison with that of the base metal showed that the maximum strength and the minimum elongation are achieved again in this rotation speed. Yield strength and ultimate tensile strength increased with the decrease in grain size in the nugget region, and the yield strength obeyed Hall-Petch relationship. Hence, the hardness values do not follow the relationship.
Molecular Signatures of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Analysis of Associations with Tumor Characteristics and Epidemiologic Risk Factors
Authors: Schildkraut Joellen M. , Iversen Edwin S. , Akushevich Lucy , Whitaker Regina , Bentley Rex C. , Berchuck Andrew , Marks Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2013

Background: Six gene expression subtypes of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer were recently defined using microarrays by Tothill and colleagues. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project subsequently replicated these subtypes and identified a signature predictive of survival in high-grade serous (HGS) cancers. We previously validated these signatures for use in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. The aim of the present study was to determine whether these signatures are associated with specific ovarian cancer risk factors, which would add to the evidence that they reflect the heterogeneous etiology of this disease.

Methods: We modeled signature-specific tumor characteristics and epidemiologic risk factor relationships using multiple regression and multivariate response multiple regression models in 193 patients from a case–control study of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Results: We observed associations between the Tothill gene expression subtype signatures and both age at diagnosis (P = 0.0008) and race (P = 0.008). Although most established epidemiologic risk factors were not associated with molecular signatures, there was an association between breast feeding (P = 0.024) and first-degree family history of breast or ovarian cancer (P = 0.034) among the 106 HGS cases. Some of the above associations were validated using gene expression microarray data from the TCGA project. Weak associations were seen with age at menarche and duration of oral contraceptive use and the TCGA survival signature.

Conclusions: These data support the potential for genomic characterization to elucidate the etiologic heterogeneity of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Impact: This study suggests that molecular signatures may augment the ability to define etiologic subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1709–21. ©2013 AACR.
Relationship of Mammographic Density and Gene Expression: Analysis of Normal Breast Tissue Surrounding Breast Cancer
Authors: Sun Xuezheng , Gierach Gretchen L. , Sandhu Rupninder , Williams Tyisha , Midkiff Bentley R. , Lissowska Jolanta , Wesolowska Ewa , Boyd Norman F. , Johnson Nicole B. , Figueroa Jonine D. , Sherman Mark E. , Troester Melissa A.
Published: August 2013

Purpose: Previous studies of breast tissue gene expression have shown that the extratumoral microenvironment has substantial variability across individuals, some of which can be attributed to epidemiologic factors. To evaluate how mammographic density and breast tissue composition relate to extratumoral microenvironment gene expression, we used data on 121 patients with breast cancer from the population-based Polish Women's Breast Cancer Study.

Experimental Design: Breast cancer cases were classified on the basis of a previously reported, biologically defined extratumoral gene expression signature with two subtypes: an Active subtype, which is associated with high expression of genes related to fibrosis and wound response, and an Inactive subtype, which has high expression of cellular adhesion genes. Mammographic density of the contralateral breast was assessed using pretreatment mammograms and a quantitative, reliable computer-assisted thresholding method. Breast tissue composition was evaluated on the basis of digital image analysis of tissue sections.

Results: The Inactive extratumoral subtype was associated with significantly higher percentage mammographic density (PD) and dense area (DA) in univariate analysis (PD: P = 0.001; DA: P = 0.049) and in multivariable analyses adjusted for age and body mass index (PD: P = 0.004; DA: P = 0.049). Inactive/higher mammographic density tissue was characterized by a significantly higher percentage of stroma and a significantly lower percentage of adipose tissue, with no significant change in epithelial content. Analysis of published gene expression signatures suggested that Inactive/higher mammographic density tissue expressed increased estrogen response and decreased TGF-β signaling.

Conclusions: By linking novel molecular phenotypes with mammographic density, our results indicate that mammographic density reflects broad transcriptional changes, including changes in both epithelia- and stroma-derived signaling. Clin Cancer Res; 19(18); 4972–82. ©2013 AACR.
A Pharmacogenetic Predictive Model for Paclitaxel Clearance Based on the DMET Platform
Authors: de Graan Anne-Joy M. , Elens Laure , Smid Marcel , Martens John W. , Sparreboom Alex , Nieuweboer Annemieke J.M. , Friberg Lena E. , Elbouazzaoui Samira , Wiemer Erik A.C. , van der Holt Bronno , Verweij Jaap , van Schaik Ron H.N. , Mathijssen Ron H.J.
Published: August 2013

Purpose: Paclitaxel is used in the treatment of solid tumors and displays high interindividual variation in exposure. Low paclitaxel clearance could lead to increased toxicity during treatment. We present a genetic prediction model identifying patients with low paclitaxel clearance, based on the drug-metabolizing enzyme and transporter (DMET)-platform, capable of detecting 1,936 genetic variants in 225 metabolizing enzyme and drug transporter genes.

Experimental Design: In 270 paclitaxel-treated patients, unbound plasma concentrations were determined and pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated from a previously developed population pharmacokinetic model (NONMEM). Patients were divided into a training- and validation set. Genetic variants determined by the DMET platform were selected from the training set to be included in the prediction model when they were associated with low paclitaxel clearance (1 SD below mean clearance) and subsequently tested in the validation set.

Results: A genetic prediction model including 14 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) was developed on the training set. In the validation set, this model yielded a sensitivity of 95%, identifying most patients with low paclitaxel clearance correctly. The positive predictive value of the model was only 22%. The model remained associated with low clearance after multivariate analysis, correcting for age, gender, and hemoglobin levels at baseline (P = 0.02).

Conclusions: In this first large-sized application of the DMET-platform for paclitaxel, we identified a 14 SNP model with high sensitivity to identify patients with low paclitaxel clearance. However, due to the low positive predictive value we conclude that genetic variability encoded in the DMET-chip alone does not sufficiently explain paclitaxel clearance. Clin Cancer Res; 19(18); 5210–7. ©2013 AACR.
Prognostic Role of Lemur Tyrosine Kinase-3 Germline Polymorphisms in Adjuvant Gastric Cancer in Japan and the United States
Authors: Wakatsuki Takeru , LaBonte Melissa J. , Bohanes Pierre O. , Zhang Wu , Yang Dongyun , Azuma Mizutomo , Barzi Afsaneh , Ning Yan , Loupakis Fotios , Saadat Siamak , Volz Nico , Stintzing Sebastian , El-Khoueiry Rita , Koizumi Wasaburo , Watanabe Masahiko , Shah Manish , Stebbing Justin , Giamas Georgios , Lenz Heinz-Josef
Published: August 2013

Lemur tyrosine kinase-3 (LMTK3) was recently identified as an estrogen receptor (ER)-α modulator related to endocrine therapy resistance, and its polymorphisms rs9989661 (T>C) T/T genotype and rs8108419 (G>A) G/G or A/G genotype predicted improved outcomes in breast cancer. Because different predominant ER distributions link to breast and gastric cancer and little is known of the prognostic role of LMTK3 in gastric cancer, this study was carried out to clarify the prognostic role of these polymorphisms in gastric cancer. One-hundred and sixty-nine Japanese and 137 U.S. patients with localized gastric adenocarcinoma were enrolled. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood or tissue, and all samples were analyzed by PCR-based direct DNA sequencing. Overall, these polymorphisms were not associated with survival in both cohorts. When gender was considered, in multivariate analysis, harboring rs9989661 T/T genotype was associated with disease-free survival [HR, 4.37; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.08–9.18; P < 0.0001] and overall survival (OS; HR, 3.69; 95% CI, 1.65–8.24; P = 0.0014) in the Japanese males and time to recurrence (HR, 7.29; 95% CI, 1.07–49.80; P = 0.043) in the U.S. females. Meanwhile, harboring rs8108419 G/G genotype was associated with OS in the Japanese females (HR, 3.04; 95% CI, 1.08–8.56; P = 0.035) and the U.S. males (HR, 3.39; 95% CI, 1.31–8.80; P = 0.012). The prognostic role of these polymorphisms may be negative in gastric cancer. These findings suggest that the estrogen pathway may play a prognostic role in patients with gastric cancer but this may be dependent on the regional differences both in physiology and genetic alterations of gastric cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(10); 2261–72. ©2013 AACR.
Chemotherapy Counteracts Metastatic Dissemination Induced by Antiangiogenic Treatment in Mice
Authors: Rovida Alessandra , Castiglioni Vittoria , Decio Alessandra , Scarlato Valentina , Scanziani Eugenio , Giavazzi Raffaella , Cesca Marta
Published: August 2013

The development of resistance and progressive disease after treatment with angiogenesis inhibitors is becoming a controversial issue. We investigated the experimental conditions that cause multireceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKI) to augment metastasis and whether opportune combinations with chemotherapy could counteract this effect. The renal Renca-luc tumor was transplanted orthotopically in the kidney of Balb/c mice, which then were or were not nephrectomized. The Lewis Lung carcinoma (LLC) was transplanted in the tibial muscle of C57/Bl6 mice. Treatment with the RTKI sunitinib started at different stages of tumor progression, mimicking neoadjuvant or adjuvant settings. Combination studies with paclitaxel, doxorubicin, cisplatin, gemcitabine, and topotecan were done on the LLC model, using opportune regimens. In a neoadjuvant setting, sunitinib inhibited Renca-luc tumor growth, prolonging survival despite an increase in lung metastasis; treatment after primary tumor surgery (adjuvant setting) or on established metastasis prolonged survival and decreased metastasis. Sunitinib increased lung metastasis from mice bearing early-stage LLC, but did not affect established metastases (no acceleration) from advanced tumors. Combinations with doxorubicin, topotecan, gemcitabine, but not cisplatin and paclitaxel, counteracted the increase in metastasis from LLC, partly reflecting their antitumor activity. Histology analysis after sunitinib confirmed tumor vascular changes and increased hypoxia. Topotecan at suboptimal daily doses reduced sunitinib-related metastasis, reducing tumor hypoxia. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, as sunitinib, can have adverse malignant effects mainly in the neoadjuvant setting. The addition of chemotherapy might influence metastasis, depending on each drug mechanism of action and its regimen of administration. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(10); 2237–47. ©2013 AACR.
NY-ESO-1 Expression in Meningioma Suggests a Rationale for New Immunotherapeutic Approaches
Authors: Baia Gilson S. , Caballero Otavia L. , Ho Janelle S.Y. , Zhao Qi , Cohen Tzeela , Binder Zev A. , Salmasi Vafi , Gallia Gary L. , Quinones-Hinojosa Alfredo , Olivi Alessandro , Brem Henry , Burger Peter , Strausberg Robert L. , Simpson Andrew J.G. , Eberhart Charles G. , Riggins Gregory J.
Published: August 2013

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors. Surgical resection remains the treatment of choice for these tumors. However, a significant number of tumors are not surgically accessible, recur, or become malignant, necessitating the repetition of surgery and sometimes radiation. Chemotherapy is rarely used and is generally not recognized as an effective treatment. Cancer/testis (CT) genes represent a unique class of genes, which are expressed by germ cells, normally silenced in somatic cells, but activated in various cancers. CT proteins can elicit spontaneous immune responses in patients with cancer and this feature makes them attractive targets for immunotherapy-based approaches. We analyzed mRNA expression of 37 testis-restricted CT genes in a discovery set of 18 meningiomas by reverse transcription PCR. The overall frequency of expression of CT genes ranged from 5.6% to 27.8%. The most frequently expressed was NY-ESO-1, in 5 patients (27.8%). We subsequently analyzed NY-ESO-1 protein expression in a larger set of meningiomas by immunohistochemistry and found expression in 108 of 110 cases. In some cases, NY-ESO-1 expression was diffused and homogenous, but in most instances it was heterogeneous. Importantly, NY-ESO-1 expression was positively correlated with higher grade and patients presenting with higher levels of NY-ESO-1 staining had significantly worse disease-free and overall survival. We have also shown that NY-ESO-1 expression may lead to humoral immune response in patients with meningioma. Considering the limited treatment options for patients with meningioma, the potential of NY-ESO-1–based immunotherapy should be explored. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(5); 296–302. ©2013 AACR.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Monitoring with a Lamprey Idiotope-Specific Antibody
Authors: Nakahara Hirotomo , Herrin Brantley R. , Alder Matthew N. , Catera Rosa , Yan Xiao-Jie , Chiorazzi Nicholas , Cooper Max D.
Published: August 2013

For antigen recognition, lampreys use leucine-rich repeats (LRR) instead of immunoglobulin V-(D)-J domains to generate variable lymphocyte receptors (VLR) of three types: VLRA, VLRB, and VLRC. VLRB-bearing lymphocytes respond to immunization with proliferation and differentiation into plasmacytes that secrete multivalent VLRB antibodies. Here, we immunized lampreys with B cells from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) to generate recombinant monoclonal VLRB antibodies, one of which, VLR39, was specific for the donor CLL cells. The target epitope of VLR39 was shown to be the complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3) of the heavy chain variable region (VH) of the B-cell receptor. Using this antibody to monitor the CLL donor after chemoimmunotherapy-induced remission, we detected VLR39+ B cells in the patient 51 months later, before significant increase in lymphocyte count or CD5+ B cells. This indication of reemergence of the leukemic clone was verified by VH sequencing. Lamprey antibodies can exhibit exquisite specificity for a protein epitope, a CLL signature VH CDR3 sequence in this case, and offer a rapid strategy for generating anti-idiotype antibodies for early detection of leukemia recurrence. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(4); 223–8. ©2013 AACR.