bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parishin from Gastrodia elata Extends the Lifespan of Yeast via Regulation of Sir2/Uth1/TOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lin Yanfei , Sun Yujuan , Weng Yufang , Matsuura Akira , Xiang Lan , Qi Jianhua
Published: June 2016

Parishin is a phenolic glucoside isolated from Gastrodia elata, which is an important traditional Chinese medicine; this glucoside significantly extended the replicative lifespan of K6001 yeast at 3, 10, and 30 μM. To clarify its mechanism of action, assessment of oxidative stress resistance, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays, replicative lifespans of sod1, sod2, uth1, and skn7 yeast mutants, and real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐PCR) analysis were conducted. The significant increase of cell survival rate in oxidative stress condition was observed in parishin‐treated groups. Silent information regulator 2 (Sir2) gene expression and SOD activity were significantly increased after treating parishin in normal condition. Meanwhile, the levels of ROS and MDA in yeast were significantly decreased. The replicative lifespans of sod1, sod2, uth1, and skn7 mutants of K6001 yeast were not affected by parishin. We also found that parishin could decrease the gene expression of TORC1, ribosomal protein S26A (RPS26A), and ribosomal protein L9A (RPL9A) in the target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway. Gene expression levels of RPS26A and RPL9A in uth1, as well as in uth1, sir2 double mutants, were significantly lower than those of the control group. Besides, TORC1 gene expression in uth1 mutant of K6001 yeast was inhibited significantly. These results suggested that parishin exhibited antiaging effects via regulation of Sir2/Uth1/TOR signaling pathway.
An Eustachian Tube Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Previously Undescribed Entity and Review of the Literature
Authors: le Nobel Gavin J. , Lin Vincent Y. , Iakovlev Vladimir , Lee John M.
Published: June 2016

Primary sinonasal and middle ear neuroendocrine carcinomas are rare malignancies of the head and neck. Owing to the rarity of these tumors, the clinical behavior and optimal management of these tumors are not well defined. We present a case of an incidentally discovered sinonasal neuroendocrine carcinoma that was found to originate from the Eustachian tube, which has not previously been described in the literature. This patient was treated with primary surgical resection using a combination of transnasal and transaural approaches and achieved an incomplete resection. Follow-up imaging demonstrated continued tumor growth in the Eustachian tube as well as a new growth in the ipsilateral cerebellopontine angle and findings suspicious of perineural invasion. However, the tumor exhibited a benign growth pattern and despite continued growth the patient did not receive additional treatment and he remains asymptomatic 35 months following his original surgery.
Maladaptive Plasticity in Aphasia: Brain Activation Maps Underlying Verb Retrieval Errors
Authors: Spielmann Kerstin , Durand Edith , Marcotte Karine , Ansaldo Ana Inés
Published: June 2016

Anomia, or impaired word retrieval, is the most widespread symptom of aphasia, an acquired language impairment secondary to brain damage. In the last decades, functional neuroimaging techniques have enabled studying the neural basis underlying anomia and its recovery. The present study aimed to explore maladaptive plasticity in persistent verb anomia, in three male participants with chronic nonfluent aphasia. Brain activation maps associated with semantic verb paraphasia occurring within an oral picture-naming task were identified with an event-related fMRI paradigm. These maps were compared with those obtained in our previous study examining adaptive plasticity (i.e., successful verb naming) in the same participants. The results show that activation patterns related to semantic verb paraphasia and successful verb naming comprise a number of common areas, contributing to both maladaptive and adaptive neuroplasticity mechanisms. This finding suggests that the segregation of brain areas provides only a partial view of the neural basis of verb anomia and successful verb naming. Therefore, it indicates the importance of network approaches which may better capture the complexity of maladaptive and adaptive neuroplasticity mechanisms in anomia recovery.
De NovoSequencing and Characterization of the Transcriptome of Dwarf Polish Wheat (Triticum polonicumL.)
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Chao , Wang Xiaolu , Peng Fan , Wang Ruijiao , Jiang Yulin , Zeng Jian , Fan Xing , Kang Houyang , Sha Lina , Zhang Haiqin , Xiao Xue , Zhou Yonghong
Published: June 2016

Construction as well as characterization of a polish wheat transcriptome is a crucial step to study useful traits of polish wheat. In this study, a transcriptome, including 76,014 unigenes, was assembled from dwarf polish wheat (DPW) roots, stems, and leaves using the software of Trinity. Among these unigenes, 61,748 (81.23%) unigenes were functionally annotated in public databases and classified into differentially functional types. Aligning this transcriptome against draft wheat genome released by the International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium (IWGSC), 57,331 (75.42%) unigenes, including 26,122 AB-specific and 2,622 D-specific unigenes, were mapped on A, B, and/or D genomes. Compared with the transcriptome ofT. turgidum, 56,343 unigenes were matched with 103,327 unigenes ofT. turgidum. Compared with the genomes of rice and barley, 14,404 and 7,007 unigenes were matched with 14,608 genes of barley and 7,708 genes of rice, respectively. On the other hand, 2,148, 1,611, and 2,707 unigenes were expressed specifically in roots, stems, and leaves, respectively. Finally, 5,531 SSR sequences were observed from 4,531 unigenes, and 518 primer pairs were designed.
Penile Urethral Hypospadias with Two Fistulae and Diverticulum in a Saanen Kid
Authors: Almubarak Areeg Mohamed , Abdelghafar Rihab Mohamed , Gameel Ahmed Abdelrahim , Osman Nuha Muatasim
Published: June 2016

Hypospadias is a rare congenital defect reported in most animal species and humans. This case study reports a hypospadiac case in a goat kid with urethral diverticulum diagnosed in Sudan for the first time. A 45-day-old male kid was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sudan University of Science and Technology (SUST), with a history of an increasing prescrotal swelling. At presentation in the clinic the kid was bright and alert and the vital parameters were within the normal physiological range. Ultrasonography was performed to assess the integrity of the urinary system using (3.5–5) MHz curvilinear probe and it revealed normal kidneys and a distended urinary bladder. The kid was referred to surgery and two hypospadiac urinary fistulae were found. One fistula was sutured and the other was not corrected due to catheterization failure.
Influence ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection on Metabolic Syndrome in Old Chinese People
Authors: Yang Wen , Xuan Cunfu
Published: June 2016

Background. H. pyloriinfection is one of the most common chronic infectious inflammatory diseases worldwide and is also a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Patients with metabolic syndrome are known to be at increased risk for atherosclerosis. The aim of our study was to assess the effects ofH. pyloriinfection on serum lipids, body mass index (BMI), and metabolic syndrome in old Chinese people.Material and Method.A total of 191 (133 males and 58 females, aged73.19±11.03years) people who had gastroscopy examination in our hospital were divided intoH. pylori-positive group (n=80) andH. pylori-negative group (n=111).H. pyloriinfection was diagnosed by rapid urease test.Results.Patients withH. pyloriinfection had higher BMI and fasting glucose levels and incidence of metabolic syndrome (p<0.01). It was found that BMI (p<0.01, OR 74.469),H. pyloriinfection (p<0.01, OR 5.427), total cholesterol (p<0.01, OR 15.544), and diabetes mellitus (p<0.01, OR 23.957) were significantly associated with the risk of metabolic syndrome by binary logistic regression analysis.Conclusions.Patients withH. pyloriinfection had higher BMI and fasting glucose levels and had incidence of metabolic syndrome.
A Fire-Retardant Composite Made from Domestic Waste and PVA
Authors: Surtiyeni Neni , Rahmadani Raidha , Kurniasih Neny , Khairurrijal  , Abdullah Mikrajuddin
Published: June 2016

We report the synthesis of a composite from domestic waste with the strength of wood building materials. We used original domestic waste with only a simple pretreatment to reduce the processing cost. The wastes were composed of organic components (generally originating from foods), paper, plastics, and clothes; the average fraction of each type of waste mirrored the corresponding fractions of wastes in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. An initial survey of ten landfills scattered through Bandung was conducted to determine the average fraction of each component in the waste. The composite was made using a hot press. A large number of synthesis parameters were tested to determine the optimum ones. The measured mechanical strength of the produced composite approached the mechanical properties of wood building materials. A fire-retardant powder was added to retard fire so that the composite could be useful for the construction of residential homes of lower-income people who often have problems with fire. Fire tests showed that the composites were more resistant to fire than widely used wood building materials.
Clopidogrel-Induced Severe Hepatitis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Keshmiri Hesam , Behal Anuj , Shroff Shawn , Berkelhammer Charles
Published: June 2016

Clopidogrel is a commonly prescribed antiplatelet agent that carries a rare risk of hepatotoxicity. We describe a case of severe clopidogrel-induced hepatitis with liver biopsy assessment. Prompt recognition and withdrawal of the offending agent are imperative to prevent progression and potentially fatal liver injury.
Regression of Cardiac Rhabdomyomas in a Neonate after Everolimus Treatment
Authors: Bornaun Helen , Öztarhan Kazım , Erener-Ercan Tugba , Dedeoğlu Reyhan , Tugcu Deniz , Aydoğmuş Çiğdem , Cetinkaya Merih , Kavuncuoglu Sultan
Published: June 2016

Cardiac rhabdomyoma often shows spontaneous regression and usually requires only close follow-up. However, patients with symptomatic inoperable rhabdomyomas may be candidates for everolimus treatment. Our patient had multiple inoperable cardiac rhabdomyomas causing serious left ventricle outflow-tract obstruction that showed a dramatic reduction in the size after everolimus therapy, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor. After discontinuation of therapy, an increase in the diameter of masses occurred and everolimus was restarted. After 6 months of treatment, rhabdomyomas decreased in size and therapy was stopped. In conclusion, everolimus could be a possible novel therapy for neonates with clinically significant rhabdomyomas.
The Concordance between Myocardial Perfusion Imaging and Coronary Angiography in Detecting Coronary Artery Disease: A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Cardiac Center at King Abdullah Medical City
Authors: Aboul-Enein Fatma , Aljuaid Majed O. , Alharthi Hail T. , Almudhhi Abdulkarim M. , Alzahrani Mohammad A.
Published: June 2016

Background. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is considered as the leading cause of the cardiovascular fatalities worldwide. CAD is diagnosed by many modalities of imaging such as myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and coronary angiography (CAG).Methods. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted that included all patients referred to the KAMC (King Abdullah Medical City) nuclear cardiology lab from its opening until the end of May 2014 (a period of 17 months). A total of 228 patient reports with a history of conducting either CAG or MPI or both were used in this study and statistically analyzed.Results. An analysis of the MPI results revealed that 78.5% of the samples were abnormal. On the other hand, 26.75% of the samples revealed that they were subjected to CAG and MPI. There was a significant and fair agreement between MPI and CAG by using all the agreement coefficients (kappa = 0.237, phi = 0.310, andPvalue = 0.043). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MPI with reference to CAG were 97.8%, 20%, and 78.69%, respectively. In addition, positive predictive and negative predictive values were 78.95% and 75%, respectively.Conclusion. In a tertiary referral center, there was a significant agreement between MPI and CAG and a high accuracy of MPI. MPI was a noninvasive diagnostic test that could be used as a gatekeeper for CAG.
Aflibercept as First-Line Therapy in Patients with Treatment-Naïve Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Prospective Case Series Analysis in Real-Life Clinical Practice
Authors: Udaondo Patricia , Salom David , García-Delpech Salvador , Cisneros-Lanuza Ángel
Published: June 2016

Purpose: To assess the 13-month effectiveness and safety of aflibercept in naïve patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) in a real-life clinical setting. Methods: Thirty-two treatment-naïve patients with nvAMD participated in a prospective two-center study. Patients received intravitreal injections of aflibercept (Eylea®), a loading dose of three monthly injections (2 mg/0.05 ml) every 4 weeks for the first 3 months, followed by intravitreal injections every 2 months. Results: At 3 and 13 months, the mean best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly as compared with baseline (logMAR 0.53 ± 0.30 and 0.55 ± 0.32 vs. 0.30 ± 0.24, respectively, p < 0.001). At 3 and 13 months, 46.8% of patients (15/32) gained ≥15 ETDRS letters. The mean decrease in central macular thickness was also significant at 3 months (252 ± 35 µm) and at 13 months (249 ± 38 µm) as compared with pretreatment values (383 ± 76 µm) (p < 0.01). Also, 50% resolution of pigment epithelial detachment (PED) was observed in 8 out of 9 eyes (88.9%) with PED at baseline. Intravitreal injections were well tolerated and no adverse events were recorded. Conclusion: Aflibercept was effective and safe for treating nvAMD in naïve patients in routine daily practice.
Histopathologic Diagnosis of Atypical Primary Vitreoretinal Lymphoma following Enucleation
Authors: Sood Arjun B. , Yeh Steven , Mendoza Pia , Grossniklaus Hans E.
Published: June 2016

Introduction: Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL) is a rare but potentially fatal malignancy. The diagnosis of PVRL remains challenging. Here, we present a case of PVRL with a diagnostic enucleation required to establish the diagnosis. Methods/Case Description: A 58-year-old otherwise healthy woman was referred for evaluation of panuveitis with persistent blurred vision in the left eye. Extensive laboratory work-up was negative. On initial evaluation, the patient had visual acuity of no light perception in the left eye. Examination of the left eye revealed diffuse neovascularization of the iris, moderate vitreous debris and no view of the posterior pole. A B-scan ultrasound showed a retinal detachment and extensive subretinal fluid. Enucleation was performed. Results: On gross examination, a white mass was noted under the RPE. Histologic examination showed a mass of large CD20+ lymphocytes under the RPE. Discussion: The histopathologic findings confirmed a diagnosis of large B-cell lymphoma (PVRL). Conclusion: PVRL may masquerade as uveitis, thus leading to a delay in diagnosis and management. A diagnostic enucleation may be useful in blind painful eyes of unknown etiology.
Detection of Anorectal Cancer among Patients with Crohn's Disease Undergoing Surveillance with Various Biopsy Methods
Authors: Matsuno Hiroshi , Mizushima Tsunekazu , Nezu Riichiro , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Takahashi Hidekazu , Haraguchi Naotsugu , Nishimura Junichi , Hata Taishi , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Crohn's disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease. The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increased in patients with CD. In Japan, anorectal cancer accounted for >60% of CRCs associated with CD. These anorectal cancers are typically diagnosed in advanced stages, because a surveillance protocol remains to be established. This study aimed to assess various biopsy methods for detecting CRC. Methods: This study included 72 patients (113 examinations) with CD who underwent cancer surveillance between August 2008 and October 2015. Surveillances were performed with a core needle biopsy in perianal regions (54 cases), endoscopic biopsy (90 cases), and excisional biopsy (34 cases). When it was difficult to perform colonoscopy in an outpatient setting, due to perianal pain or stricture, we employed examinations under anesthesia for surveillance. Results: The total CRC detection rate was 6.19% (7 examinations). CRC detection rates were 1.85% (1 case) with core needle biopsy, 5.56% (5 cases) with endoscopic biopsy, and 5.88% (2 cases) with excisional biopsy. Conclusions: We showed that it was important to employ various biopsy methods in cancer surveillance to detect CRC among patients with CD.
Enrolment in an Asthma Management Program during Pregnancy and Adherence with Inhaled Corticosteroids: The ‘Management of Asthma during Pregnancy' Program
Authors: Baarnes Camilla Boslev , Hansen Anne Vejen , Ulrik Charlotte Suppli
Published: June 2016

Background: Poor adherence with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is a major problem in asthma and according to previous studies not least during pregnancy. Objective: Our aim was to assess if enrolment in an asthma management program, and by that close monitoring, can improve self-reported and documented adherence with ICS in pregnant women with asthma. Methods: Pregnant women with doctor-diagnosed asthma, currently being prescribed ICS, referred during a 12-month period to the outpatient respiratory clinic, were consecutively included in the study. They had follow-up visits every 4 weeks during pregnancy. Asthma control was assessed according to GINA guidelines. Self-reported adherence was compared to documented adherence, defined as medical possession rate (MPR), calculated on the basis of filled prescriptions (data from each individuals' medication profile at www.fmk-online.dk). Results: A total of 130 women fulfilled the inclusion criteria, but at the initial visit, 16 women reported no current use of ICS, and the analyses are therefore based on 114 patients. Self-reported adherence to ICS was significantly higher during pregnancy than before pregnancy (73 and 52%, respectively, reporting good adherence; p < 0.001). The actual adherence, i.e. MPR, was also higher during pregnancy than before (46 vs. 28%, p < 0.0001). In keeping with this, an overall improvement was also observed in asthma control. Of the women with a low pre-pregnancy MPR, 71% had moderate or good adherence (MPR) during pregnancy. Self-reported adherence was significantly correlated with MPR during pregnancy (p = 0.004) but not before pregnancy (p = 0.46). At the 3-month postpartum visit, adherence was close to the pre-pregnancy level. Conclusion: Enrolment in an asthma management program during pregnancy seems to improve adherence with controller medication, but self-reported adherence is not a valid measure for actual adherence in patients with asthma.
A Giant Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of the Stomach with Extramural Growth
Authors: Miyazaki Ryosuke , Arihiro Seiji , Hayashi Eri , Kitahara Takuya , Oki Sayumi , Kamba Syunsuke , Ide Daisuke , Komoike Nobuhiko , Satoh Kenichi , Kato Tomohiro , Saruta Masayuki , Tajiri Hisao , Aoki Hiroaki , Omura Nobuo , Mitsumori Norio , Mitsuishi Takehiro , Yanagisawa Haruka , Takahashi Hiroyuki
Published: June 2016

A 76-year-old man presented to our hospital with abdominal distention and loss of appetite. The 10% of weight lost relative to this patient in 1 month. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a giant mass, with a major axis of 23 cm, containing solid components, not involving the upper abdominal organs. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed extramural compression from the middle gastric body to the antrum, as well as a normal mucosal surface. These findings were suggestive of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor attached to the anterior wall of the stomach without metastasis or invasion. Partial gastrectomy was performed for tumor resection, and the patient was subsequently treated with adjuvant imatinib. We report a rare case of a large extramural gastrointestinal stromal tumor of the stomach that was larger than 20 cm in diameter and present a pertinent literature review.
Growth Hormone Excess in Children with Optic Pathway Tumors Is a Transient Phenomenon
Authors: Josefson Jami L. , Listernick Robert , Charrow Joel , Habiby Reema L.
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Growth hormone (GH) excess in children with chiasmal optic pathway tumors (OPT), often associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), is likely underrecognized. These children have elevated insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, evidence of rapid growth despite treatment of precocious puberty, and failure to suppress GH levels following oral glucose challenge. The aim of this report is to describe the treatment course and natural history of this rare clinical condition in 7 patients. Methods: This is a descriptive case series of 5 children previously described and 2 additional children more recently diagnosed at our institution. All 7 children had clinical and biochemical evidence of GH excess and received treatment with the somatostatin analog octreotide. Results: Length of treatment varied among the patients. Five of the 7 patients have had resolution of GH excess and currently have normal IGF-1 levels without treatment. Conclusions: Unrestrained GH secretion occurs in a subset of children with OPT with potential adverse outcomes. Since GH excess appears to resolve over time, the benefit of treatment to alter outcomes or prevent tumor progression is unclear.
Arriving at the Right Diagnosis in an Era of Precision Medicine
Authors: Pulido Vina , Lee Shin Yin , Ko Naomi Yu
Published: June 2016

In the era of precision medicine and targeted therapy, diagnostic inaccuracy can have tremendous ramifications. We present the case of a 61-year-old man initially diagnosed with small cell lung cancer by pathology. Prior to initiating chemotherapy, multidisciplinary discussions led to an amendment of the diagnosis to medullary thyroid cancer.
Associations between Respiratory Diseases and Dietary Patterns Derived by Factor Analysis and Reduced Rank Regression
Authors: Lin Yong-Pei , Kao Ya-Chun , Pan Wen-Harn , Yang Yao-Hsu , Chen Yang-Ching , Lee Yungling Leo
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: The study aims to identify children's dietary patterns and explore the relationship between dietary patterns and respiratory diseases. Methods: Subjects were 2,397 fourth graders in 14 Taiwanese communities who participated in the Taiwan Children Health Study. This study is based on an evaluation of dietary patterns, performed from April until June 2011. Information pertaining to respiratory disease was obtained by The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire, and dietary intake data obtained by food frequency questionnaire. Factor analysis and reduced rank regression (RRR) were both used to analyze dietary patterns. Results: Using factor analysis, it was found that children on a high-protein, high-fat, Western diet had a significantly higher risk of allergic rhinitis (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01-1.20). Lower ORs were noted for current wheezing, ever asthma and bronchitis in children eating a healthy diet than those on a high-protein, high-fat, Western diet. Using RRR, it was found that children on a high-protein, high-fat diet had significantly higher risks of allergic rhinitis (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07-1.27), current wheezing (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.04-1.45) and bronchitis (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09-1.46). Conclusions: A diet rich in fat and protein may increase the risk of respiratory disease in children.
Nutritional Status Deteriorates Postoperatively Despite Preoperative Nutritional Support
Authors: Grass Fabian , Benoit Michael , Coti Bertrand Pauline , Sola Josep , Schäfer Markus , Demartines Nicolas , Hübner Martin
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: The aim of the current study was to assess the postoperative evolution of nutritional status and to relate it with postoperative outcomes. Methods: Demographic, surgical and nutritional parameters were assessed 10 days preoperatively (d-10) and 30 days postoperatively (d30) in 146 patients. Risk factors responsible for perioperative (>5% between d-10 and d30) weight loss were identified. Overall, severe (Clavien 3-5) and infectious complications were compared in patients with and without perioperative weight loss (>5%). Results: Nutritional status worsened beyond the postoperative period as reflected by decreasing weight (67 ± 13 kg at d-10 vs. 63 ± 13 kg at d30, p < 0.001), body mass index (23.4 ± 4 vs. 22.2 ± 4 kg/m2, p < 0.001) and mid upper-arm muscle circumference (MAMC, 241 ± 32 vs. 232 ± 30 mm, p < 0.001). Fifty-two patients (46%) lost >5% of their body weight between d-10 and d30. Patients who presented overall (63 vs. 36%, p = 0.004) and major (27 vs. 10%, p = 0.016) postoperative complications were at significantly higher risk to deteriorate postoperative nutritional status. Multivariate analysis identified low preoperative lean body mass (OR 3.2; 95% CI 1.2-8.9, p = 0.023) and low preoperative MAMC (OR 2.5; 95% CI 0.9-6.8, p = 0.066) as independent risk factors for perioperative weight loss. Conclusions: These data suggest continuing nutritional follow-up after the index hospitalization.
Eye Movement Monitoring and Maturation of Human Face Exploration
Authors: Aguillon-Hernandez Nadia , Roché Laëtitia , Bonnet-Brilhault Frédérique , Roux Sylvie , Barthelemy Catherine , Martineau Joëlle
Published: June 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize ocular exploration of neutral and emotional faces in the typical development of a child. Subjects and Method: In this eye-tracking study, visual exploration of faces (with neutral or emotional expressions: happiness or sadness) was characterized in a population of 52 children (24 girls and 28 boys from 4 to 15 years of age) and 44 adults (22 women and 22 men from 18 to 35 years of age). The time spent on the eyes, nose and mouth of the faces was measured. Results: All participants spent more time on the eyes (13%) rather than the nose and mouth (6%). The youngest participants spent less time exploring the eyes than the older participants, suggesting the progressive establishment of interest in these informative regions of the face during maturation. This process seemed to occur later in females (7-9 years) than males (4-6 years). Conclusion: These results confirm the importance of the eye area and the capacity of this region to capture attention. In addition, this study shows that the exploration of this region increases with age and is lower among girls aged 4-6 years compared with boys of the same age.
Bivariate evaluation of thromboembolism and bleeding in clinical trials of anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Steg Philippe Gabriel , Halperin Jonathan L. , Goldenberg Neil A. , Schulman Sam , Spyropoulos Alex C. , Kessler Craig M. , Turpie Alexander G. G. , Cutler Neal R. , Hiatt William R. , Kittelson John M. ,   for the Antithrombotic Trials Leadership and Steering (ATLAS) Group
Published: June 2016

Clinical trials of antithrombotic therapy require a cohesive assessment of benefit and risk. A new graphical method to represent the bivariate relation of benefit and risk in trials of antithrombotic drugs is described and illustrated using published data from the four major registration clinical trials of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) totalling 71,683 patients for prevention of thromboembolic events (TE) in patients with atrial fibrillation (RE-LY, ROCKET AF, ARISTOTLE, and ENGAGE-AF TIMI48). A curve representing a null hypothesis defines a region of benefit on a two-dimensional plane. Trial results are summarised by a rectangle defined by standard 95 % confidence intervals (CI) for thrombosis and bleeding risks. Benefit is judged by whether the confidence rectangle contains the null curve. The treatment effect is measured by the distance from the null curve to the opposing corners of the confidence rectangle (termed “corner distance (CD)”). Across trials NOACs reduced the absolute risk of TE compared to warfarin by 0.30 % (95 % CI: –0.56 % to –0.05 %) and reduced major bleeding by 0.88 % (95 % CI: –1.26 % to –0.51 %). Bivariate evaluation showed NOAC superiority to warfarin overall and elucidated dose differences; low dose edoxaban increased bivariate TE-bleeding risk 0.08 % (CD = –0.85 % to 0.78 %), whereas high dose edoxaban reduced risk 1.41 % (CD = –2.07 % to –0.70 %). In conclusion, bivariate evaluation facilitates visual assessment of the safety-efficacy profile of antithrombotic drugs. Its application to trials in atrial fibrillation found NOACs superior to warfarin without substantial differences between agents.

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.
A first record of the Lined Wrasse Anampses lineatus Randall, 1972 (Perciformes: Labridae) in the Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Prakash S. , Kumar T. T. Ajith
Published: June 2016

Lined wrasse Anampses lineatus Randall was recorded off the coast of Tuticorin (Gulf of Mannar), Tamil Nadu, India for the first time. It is easily distinguished by the presence of pale longitudinal lines on the body following scale rows. Broad pale white and black color patch at the base of caudal fin is distinct. Morphological description of A. lineatus is provided based on the present material along with detailed distribution records; habitat and closely related species were also discussed.
Description of a new species of Umairia Hayat (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) with additional distribution records of aphelinids from India
Authors: Manickavasagam Sagadai , Menakadev Chakaravarthy , Ayyamperumal Mani
Published: June 2016

A new species, Umairia chidambaramensis Manickavasagam & Ayyamperumal, is described from Tamil Nadu, India.  A key to the known species of Umairia Hayat is given, and additional distribution records of 10 species of aphelinids from India are also reported.
Aira (Poaceae): a new generic record for Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: Gosavi Kumar Vinod Chhotupuri , Chandore Arun Nivrutti , Kamble Mayur Yashwant
Published: June 2016

During plant exploration of Andaman and Nicobar in 2014, we were collected some interesting grass specimens from Kamorta Islands of Nicobar. After critical study and taxonomic analysis the unidentified grass species has identified as an Aira caryophyllea L.  Perusals of relevant literature were revealed that, the genus Aira L. has so far not reported from Andaman and Nicobar islands. Hence, it is reported in present communication for new record to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
On the occurrence of Theobaldius(?) tristis (Blanford, 1869) (Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoridae) in the northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Bhosale Amrut R. , Patil Tejas S. , Yadav Rupesh B. , Muley Dipak V.
Published: June 2016

Theobaldius(?) tristis is the land operculate snail earlier localized from South Kanara and Tinnevelly i.e. central and Southern Western Ghats according to the previous scientific literature. Occurrence of the T. tristis is reported first time from Kolhapur District, southern Maharashtra and thus includes the distribution into the northern Western Ghats. The observations of the present study are discussed in the lite of distribution of snail in this region, shell and operculum characters of T. tristis.
New phytogeographically noteworthy plant records from Uttarakhand, western Himalaya, India
Authors: Kumar Amit , Adhikari Bhupendra Singh , Rawat Gopal Singh
Published: June 2016

We recorded three species of angiosperms viz., Dontostemon glandulosus, Potentilla pamirica and Carex sagaensis for the first time from Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya. These species had not been reported from the state of Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya till date. Since these species are restricted in distribution and very little is known about them, we provide diagnostic features of these species along with photographs to aid field identification, phytogeographic and ecological notes.
Are exotics Amynthas alexandri (Beddard, 1900) and Metaphire peguana (Rosa, 1890) (Clitellata: Oligochaeta: Megascolecidae) a threat to native earthworms in Kerala, India?
Authors: Narayanan S. Prasanth , Sathrumithra S. , Kuriakose Dinu , Christopher G. , Thomas A. P. , Julka J. M.
Published: June 2016

Two exotic species of earthworms, Amynthas alexandri (Beddard, 1900) and Metaphire peguana (Rosa, 1890) are recorded for the first time from the state of Kerala, southern India.  Both the species were collected along with other exotic species at most of the sites.
Scalable Semisupervised Functional Neurocartography Reveals Canonical Neurons in Behavioral Networks
Authors: Frady E. Paxon , Kapoor Ashish , Horvitz Eric , Kristan Jr. William B.
Published: June 2016

Large-scale data collection efforts to map the brain are underway at multiple spatial and temporal scales, but all face fundamental problems posed by high-dimensional data and intersubject variability. Even seemingly simple problems, such as identifying a neuron/brain region across animals/subjects, become exponentially more difficult in high dimensions, such as recognizing dozens of neurons/brain regions simultaneously. We present a framework and tools for functional neurocartography—the large-scale mapping of neural activity during behavioral states. Using a voltage-sensitive dye (VSD), we imaged the multifunctional responses of hundreds of leech neurons during several behaviors to identify and functionally map homologous neurons. We extracted simple features from each of these behaviors and combined them with anatomical features to create a rich medium-dimensional feature space. This enabled us to use machine learning techniques and visualizations to characterize and account for intersubject variability, piece together a canonical atlas of neural activity, and identify two behavioral networks. We identified 39 neurons (18 pairs, 3 unpaired) as part of a canonical swim network and 17 neurons (8 pairs, 1 unpaired) involved in a partially overlapping preparatory network. All neurons in the preparatory network rapidly depolarized at the onsets of each behavior, suggesting that it is part of a dedicated rapid-response network. This network is likely mediated by the S cell, and we referenced VSD recordings to an activity atlas to identify multiple cells of interest simultaneously in real time for further experiments. We targeted and electrophysiologically verified several neurons in the swim network and further showed that the S cell is presynaptic to multiple neurons in the preparatory network. This study illustrates the basic framework to map neural activity in high dimensions with large-scale recordings and how to extract the rich information necessary to perform analyses in light of intersubject variability.
A Quasi-Likelihood Approach to Nonnegative Matrix Factorization
Authors: Devarajan Karthik , Cheung Vincent C. K.
Published: June 2016

A unified approach to nonnegative matrix factorization based on the theory of generalized linear models is proposed. This approach embeds a variety of statistical models, including the exponential family, within a single theoretical framework and provides a unified view of such factorizations from the perspective of quasi-likelihood. Using this framework, a family of algorithms for handling signal-dependent noise is developed and its convergence proved using the expectation-maximization algorithm. In addition, a measure to evaluate the goodness of fit of the resulting factorization is described. The proposed methods allow modeling of nonlinear effects using appropriate link functions and are illustrated using an application in biomedical signal processing.
Clique-Based Neural Associative Memories with Local Coding and Precoding
Authors: Mofrad Asieh Abolpour , Parker Matthew G. , Ferdosi Zahra , Tadayon Mohammad H.
Published: June 2016

Techniques from coding theory are able to improve the efficiency of neuroinspired and neural associative memories by forcing some construction and constraints on the network. In this letter, the approach is to embed coding techniques into neural associative memory in order to increase their performance in the presence of partial erasures. The motivation comes from recent work by Gripon, Berrou, and coauthors, which revisited Willshaw networks and presented a neural network with interacting neurons that partitioned into clusters. The model introduced stores patterns as small-size cliques that can be retrieved in spite of partial error. We focus on improving the success of retrieval by applying two techniques: doing a local coding in each cluster and then applying a precoding step. We use a slightly different decoding scheme, which is appropriate for partial erasures and converges faster. Although the ideas of local coding and precoding are not new, the way we apply them is different. Simulations show an increase in the pattern retrieval capacity for both techniques. Moreover, we use self-dual additive codes over field [Formula: see text], which have very interesting properties and a simple-graph representation.
Undergraduate teaching of forensic medicine in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Madadin Mohammed , Al-Saif Dalia M , Khamis Amar Hassan , Taha Attia Z , Kharoshah Magdy A , Alsayyah Ahmed , Alfehaid Suha , Yaghmour Khalid , Hakami Ahmad Yahia , Bamousa Manal S , Menezes Ritesh G , Almadani Osama M
Published: June 2016

Medico-legal tasks are not exclusive to forensic medical experts –any physician may face medico-legal issues in his career. Hence, the practice of medicine requires education in legal issues. In Saudi Arabia, there are 30 universities with medical colleges, but we do not know how they teach undergraduate forensic medicine and medico-legal issues. The aim of this study was to discover undergraduate training courses in forensic medicine in Saudi universities. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving all colleges of medicine in Saudi Arabia. A structured, self-administered questionnaire containing 13 items relating to the undergraduate forensic medicine course was distributed. Out of a total of 30 universities, 27 universities responded. Of these 27 universities, 16 (59.26%) teach forensic medicine to undergraduate medical students, and 11 (40.74%) do not teach forensic medicine in their undergraduate curriculum. Of the 27 universities that responded, none has a department of forensic medicine. Eleven universities that do not teach forensic medicine have no forensic medicine unit/division or faculty at all. Forensic medicine belongs to the pathology department in 11 universities, while it belongs to different departments in five universities. There is variation in teaching methods, years where the course is taught and length of the course. Practical and morgue visits take place in 7/16 (43.8%) universities, while 9/16 (56.3%) universities only teach the theoretical aspects of forensic medicine. All 16 universities teach forensic medicine only to medical students and do not teach it to students in other colleges such as dentistry and nursing.
Strategies to Accelerate Manufacturing Growth in India: A System Dynamics–Interpretive Structural Modelling Analysis
Authors: Ojha Ravindra , Vrat Prem
Published: June 2016

The stagnant manufacturing sectoral share in India’s gross domestic product (GDP) needs an in-depth understanding, analysis and recommendation for growth. Taking manufacturing to a higher growth trajectory has now become a necessity for India’s prosperity. The 2011 National Planning Commission’s (NMP) objective of 25 per cent contribution by manufacturing to India’s GDP by 2025, though challenging, needs an urgent focus. This article utilizes system dynamics (SD)-based simulation for three futuristic economic scenarios to assess the achievability of the NMP targets. The article also provides an understanding of a few critical issues of the manufacturing sector using the causal loop diagram approach of SD. The article also applies the interpretive structural modelling approach to 19 factors identified from the literature, which impact the manufacturing sector. Nine driving factors have been identified for accelerating the manufacturing sector: Technology, labour Reforms, Infrastructural and energy reforms, Good Governance, quality Education and Resource management (TRIGGER). The four dependent factors identified are Domestic value addition, Macroeconomic health, manufacturing Investment and Green-field projects (DMIG).
Type III Kounis syndrome after administration of an echocardiography contrast agent
Authors: Portero-Portaz Juan Jose , Córdoba-Soriano Juan Gabriel , Gallego-Page Juan Carlos
Published: June 2016

A dobutamine stress echocardiogram was performed in a 72-year-old woman to assess an intermediate lesion in the left anterior descending artery. After administration of the echocardiography contrast agent, she presented with an anaphylactic reaction and in that context a subacute thrombosis of a drug-eluting stent implanted 15 days before. This is a case of the so-called type III Kounis syndrome.
Distance learning and lifelong learning
Authors: GOULAO Maria de Fátima
Published: June 2016

One way to education reaches more people, whether they are in a higher education or not, whether they are at the beginning of their formation or updating their knowledge is through the distance learning. It has many specific characteristics that make a person a privileged partner in the whole process.

Many of the students of the distance learning are no longer young and have their jobs and families. By these reasons they have to coordinate the different areas of life which are mutually influenced. The reasons that take them to embrace a project of distance learning are diversified. Some students bet on getting an upper academic level because they can reach a better place of work while others only want to have a bigger cultural degree. 

Our study pretended to know the reasons that induce people to choose this education system and how they evaluate the elearning, in general. A sample of 80 distance learning students of both sexes was used. As an instrument to collect data, in the first question, it was used an open answer questionnaire in which was requested the 3 main reasons that took the inquired to choose distance learning. The analysis of the answers was made based in the technique of content analysis. In the elearning evaluation it was used a qualitative scale. 
VISIT-TS version 2: A multimedia tool for population studies on tic disorders
Authors: Vachon M. Jonathan , Striley Catherine W. , Gordon Mollie R. , Schroeder Miriam L. , Bihun Emily C. , Koller Jonathan M. , Black Kevin J.
Published: June 2016

Population-based assessment of Tourette syndrome (TS) and other tic disorders produces a paradox. On one hand, ideally diagnosis of tic disorders requires expert observation. In fact, diagnostic criteria for TS explicitly require expert assessment of tics for a definite diagnosis. On the other hand, large-scale population surveys with expert assessment of every subject are impracticable. True, several published studies have successfully used expert assessment to find tic prevalence in a representative population (e.g. all students in a school district). However, extending these studies to larger populations is daunting.

We created a multimedia tool to demonstrate tics to a lay audience, discuss their defining and common attributes, and address features that differentiate tics from other movements and vocalizations. A first version was modified to improve clarity and to include a more diverse group in terms of age and ethnicity. The result is a tool intended for epidemiological research. It may also provide additional benefits, such as more representative minority recruitment for other TS studies and increased community awareness of TS.
On the phenomenological theory of magnetic storms
Authors: Гульельми Анатолий , Guglielmi Anatol
Published: June 2016

This article addresses methodical issues concerning the modeling of the Dst variation in a geomagnetic storm. We describe the so-called RBM (Russell — Burton — McPherron) model representing an ordinary differential equation with solutions simulating the relation between the Dst variation and the azimuthal component of the interplanetary electric field. Special attention is paid to the threshold nature of Dst variation excitation. We would like to emphasize the necessity of stochastic extension of the RBM model by allowing for fluctuations inherent to any physical system. The integral representation of a Dst variation bifurcation diagram is given. This enables us to account for the effect of fluctuations which eliminate the diagram root singularity and cause a threshold point shift. The Dst variation is shown to be typical of the wide class of threshold phenomena similar to second-order phase transitions. We draw an analogy with threshold phenomena in the Earth’s magnetosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. In addition, we briefly discuss the issue about soft and hard passages through the threshold, as well as about explosive instability in geophysical media.
Using GPU Computing for Solving the Two-Dimensional Guillotine Cutting Problem
Authors: Boschetti Marco A. , Maniezzo Vittorio , Strappaveccia Francesco
Published: June 2016

In recent years, GPU computing has become an increasingly important tool to develop efficient applications in several areas, including optimization. One of the optimization approaches that seems to take most advantage from GPU computing is dynamic programming. In this paper, we investigate the application of GPU computing to the two-dimensional guillotine cutting problem, solved by dynamic programming. We show a possible implementation and we discuss a number of technical issues. Computational results on test instances available in the literature and on new larger instances show the effectiveness of the dynamic programming approach based on GPU computing for this problem.

Data, as supplemental material, are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2016.0693 .
Plant Operations and Product Recalls in the Automotive Industry: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Shah Rachna , Ball George P. , Netessine Serguei
Published: June 2016

While there is overwhelming support for the negative consequences of product recalls, empirical evidence of operational drivers of recalls is almost nonexistent. In this study, we identify product variety (measured as the number of factory installed options), plant variety (measured as the number of models per assembly line in a plant), and capacity utilization as drivers of subsequent manufacturing-related recalls. We examine their individual and joint effects using a unique data set compiled for a seven-year period by linking assembly line production data for North American automotive manufacturers with recall data from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. We show that manufacturing-related recalls are positively associated with product variety and plant utilization, but not with plant variety. We also find that the joint effect of plant variety and utilization is positively associated with increased recalls. In quantitative terms, a one-standard-deviation increase in the number of options (four additional options) is associated with two additional recalls and costs $46.2 million to automakers over the sample duration. We observe similar results with plant utilization, and find that a car built in a plant that is being utilized above 100% capacity is associated with more than eight additional recalls corresponding to an incremental cost of $167 million.

This paper was accepted by Yossi Aviv, operations management.