bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluations of the Hankel determinants of a Thue–Morse-like sequence
Authors: Han Guo-Niu , Wu Wen
Published: June 2015

We obtain simple relations between the Hankel determinants of the formal power series ∏k≥0(1 + Jx3k) where [Formula: see text], and prove that the sequence of Hankel determinants is an aperiodic automatic sequence taking value in {±1, ±J, ±J2}. This research is essentially inspired by the works about Hankel determinants of Thue–Morse-like sequences by Allouche, Peyrière, Wen and Wen (1998), Bacher (2006) and the first author (2013). It is worth mentioning that we do not have a unified result, even though Bacher's result and ours are very similar.
Comparative Study of Generalized Quantitative-Qualitative Inaccuracy Fuzzy Measures for Noiseless Coding Theorem and 1:1 Codes
Authors: Arora H. D. , Dhiman Anjali
Published: June 2015

In coding theory, we study various properties of codes for application in data compression, cryptography, error correction, and network coding. The study of codes is introduced in Information Theory, electrical engineering, mathematics, and computer sciences for the transmission of data through reliable and efficient methods. We have to consider how coding of messages can be done efficiently so that the maximum number of messages can be sent over a noiseless channel in a given time. Thus, the minimum value of mean codeword length subject to a given constraint on codeword lengths has to be founded. In this paper, we have introduced mean codeword length of orderαand typeβfor 1:1 codes and analyzed the relationship between average codeword length and fuzzy information measures for binary 1:1 codes. Further, noiseless coding theorem associated with fuzzy information measure has been established.
Effect of Ginseng (Panax ginseng) Berry EtOAc Fraction on Cognitive Impairment in C57BL/6 Mice under High-Fat Diet Inducement
Authors: Park Chang Hyeon , Park Seon Kyeong , Seung Tae Wan , Jin Dong Eun , Guo Tianjiao , Heo Ho Jin
Published: June 2015

High-fat diet-induced obesity leads to type 2 diabetes. Recently, there has been growing apprehension about diabetes-associated cognitive impairment (DACM). The effect of ginseng (Panax ginseng) berry ethyl acetate fraction (GBEF) on mice with high-fat diet-induced cognitive impairment was investigated to confirm its physiological function. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 5 weeks and then a high-fat diet with GBEF (20 and 50 mg/kg of body weight) for 4 weeks. After threein vivobehavioral tests (Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze tests), blood samples were collected from the postcaval vein for biochemical analysis, and whole brains were prepared for anex vivotest. A method based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) accurate-mass quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF/MS) was used to determine major ginsenosides. GBEF decreased the fasting blood glucose levels of high-fat diet-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) mice and improved hyperglycemia. Cognitive behavior tests were examined after setting up the DM mice. Thein vivoexperiments showed that mice treated with GBEF exhibited more improved cognitive behavior than DM mice. In addition, GBEF effectively inhibited the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of DM mice brain tissues. Q-TOF UPLC/MS analyses of GBEF showed that ginsenoside Re was the major ginsenoside.
Pharmacogenomics of Drug Response in Type 2 Diabetes: Toward the Definition of Tailored Therapies?
Authors: Pollastro Carla , Ziviello Carmela , Costa Valerio , Ciccodicola Alfredo
Published: June 2015

Type 2 diabetes is one of the major causes of mortality with rapidly increasing prevalence. Pharmacological treatment is the first recommended approach after failure in lifestyle changes. However, a significant number of patients shows—or develops along time and disease progression—drug resistance. In addition, not all type 2 diabetic patients have the same responsiveness to drug treatment. Despite the presence of nongenetic factors (hepatic, renal, and intestinal), most of such variability is due to genetic causes. Pharmacogenomics studies have described association between single nucleotide variations and drug resistance, even though there are still conflicting results. To date, the most reliable approach to investigate allelic variants is Next-Generation Sequencing that allows the simultaneous analysis, on a genome-wide scale, of nucleotide variants and gene expression. Here, we review the relationship between drug responsiveness and polymorphisms in genes involved in drug metabolism (CYP2C9) and insulin signaling (ABCC8,KCNJ11, andPPARG). We also highlight the advancements in sequencing technologies that to date enable researchers to perform comprehensive pharmacogenomics studies. The identification of allelic variants associated with drug resistance will constitute a solid basis to establish tailored therapeutic approaches in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
The Influence of a Vitrectomy on the Diurnal Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Lee Yong Woo , Kim Joon Mo , Shim Seong Hee , Kim Da Yeong , Bae Jeong Hun , Park Ki Ho
Published: June 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the diurnal intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes after vitrectomy compared to that of healthy eyes.Methods. Twenty-one patients who had undergone vitrectomy and 21 age- and gender-matched normal controls were enrolled during the same period. We measured the diurnal IOP every two hours between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. in all patients who were admitted for cataract surgery. Patients with a history of eye surgery (not including vitrectomy) or use of a medication that is associated with IOP were excluded. The IOP and ocular parameters of patients were compared with the same patients’ fellow healthy eyes and with normal eyes of age- and gender-matched controls.Results. There were no significant differences between vitrectomized eyes and normal fellow eyes with regard to all IOP parameters including the maximum, minimum, and IOP fluctuation values. Diurnal fluctuation of IOP (or the difference between the maximum and minimum IOP) was larger in vitrectomized eyes than it was in age- and gender-matched control eyes.Conclusions. Vitrectomy did not markedly affect the IOP. Although there were no severe complications after vitrectomy, the IOP fluctuation was wider in vitrectomized eyes than it was in normal eyes.
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Patterns of Participation in Daily Physical and Play Activities
Authors: Memari Amir Hossein , Panahi Nekoo , Ranjbar Elaheh , Moshayedi Pouria , Shafiei Masih , Kordi Ramin , Ziaee Vahid
Published: June 2015

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) indicates several neurodevelopmental impairments which may end in impairments in motor or physical activities. Daily physical activity involvement was investigated in a total of 83 children (52 boys and 31 girls) with ASD aged 6–15 years. Results indicated that only 10 (12%) of children with ASD were physically active. Children were predominantly engaged in solitary play rather than social play activities. Gender, family income, and household structure were found to be associated with activity scores. Financial burden and lack of opportunities were noted as the leading barriers to physical activities. In conclusion, findings indicated a low rate of physical activity participation in children with ASD that is closely associated with sociodemographic variables.
The Tree-Drawing Test (Koch’s Baum Test): A Useful Aid to Diagnose Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Stanzani Maserati Michelangelo , Matacena Corrado , Sambati Luisa , Oppi Federico , Poda Roberto , De Matteis Maddalena , Gallassi Roberto
Published: June 2015

Objective. To study the Tree-Drawing Test in a group of demented patients and compare it with a group of mild cognitively impaired patients (MCI) and controls.Methods. Consecutive outpatients were classified as affected by dementia (Alzheimer’s disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and vascular dementia (VD)) or by MCI. Patients and controls underwent the Tree-Drawing Test and MMSE.Results. 118 AD, 19 FTD, 46 VD, and 132 MCI patients and 90 controls were enrolled. AD patients draw trees globally smaller than other patients and controls. FTD patients draw trees with a wider space occupation than AD and MCI patients but smaller than controls as well as VD patients. Trees drawn by MCI patients are intermediate in size between AD patients and controls. The trunk-to-crown ratio of trees drawn by cognitive impaired patients is greater than controls while the tree size-relative-to-page space index is significantly smaller. The tree size-relative-to-page space index of trees drawn by AD patients is smaller than that of the other cognitively impaired patients. Tree height and the trunk-to-crown ratio are independent predictors of cognitive impairment.Conclusions. Trees drawn by cognitively impaired patients are different from those drawn by healthy subjects with a progressive differentiation from mild to more relevant degrees of cognitive impairment.
Towards Automated Three-Dimensional Tracking of Nephrons through Stacked Histological Image Sets
Authors: Bhikha Charita , Andreasen Arne , Christensen Erik I. , Letts Robyn F. R. , Pantanowitz Adam , Rubin David M. , Thomsen Jesper S. , Zhai Xiao-Yue
Published: June 2015

An automated approach for tracking individual nephrons through three-dimensional histological image sets of mouse and rat kidneys is presented. In a previous study, the available images were tracked manually through the image sets in order to explore renal microarchitecture. The purpose of the current research is to reduce the time and effort required to manually trace nephrons by creating an automated, intelligent system as a standard tool for such datasets. The algorithm is robust enough to isolate closely packed nephrons and track their convoluted paths despite a number of nonideal, interfering conditions such as local image distortions, artefacts, and interstitial tissue interference. The system comprises image preprocessing, feature extraction, and a custom graph-based tracking algorithm, which is validated by a rule base and a machine learning algorithm. A study of a selection of automatically tracked nephrons, when compared with manual tracking, yields a 95% tracking accuracy for structures in the cortex, while those in the medulla have lower accuracy due to narrower diameter and higher density. Limited manual intervention is introduced to improve tracking, enabling full nephron paths to be obtained with an average of 17 manual corrections per mouse nephron and 58 manual corrections per rat nephron.
Noether Gauge Symmetry of Dirac Field in (2 + 1)-Dimensional Gravity
Authors: Gecim Ganim , Kucukakca Yusuf , Sucu Yusuf
Published: June 2015

We consider a gravitational theory including a Dirac field that is nonminimally coupled to gravity in 2 + 1 dimensions. Noether gauge symmetry approach can be used to fix the form of coupling functionF(Ψ)and the potentialV(Ψ)of the Dirac field and to obtain a constant of motion for the dynamical equations. In the context of (2 + 1)-dimensional gravity, we investigate cosmological solutions of the field equations using these forms obtained by the existence of Noether gauge symmetry. In this picture, it is shown that, for the nonminimal coupling case, the cosmological solutions indicate both an early-time inflation and late-time acceleration for the universe.
Direct Cardiac Reprogramming: Advances in Cardiac Regeneration
Authors: Chen Olivia , Qian Li
Published: June 2015

Heart disease is one of the lead causes of death worldwide. Many forms of heart disease, including myocardial infarction and pressure-loading cardiomyopathies, result in irreversible cardiomyocyte death. Activated fibroblasts respond to cardiac injury by forming scar tissue, but ultimately this response fails to restore cardiac function. Unfortunately, the human heart has little regenerative ability and long-term outcomes following acute coronary events often include chronic and end-stage heart failure. Building upon years of research aimed at restoring functional cardiomyocytes, recent advances have been made in the direct reprogramming of fibroblasts toward a cardiomyocyte cell fate bothin vitroandin vivo. Several experiments show functional improvements in mouse models of myocardial infarction followingin situgeneration of cardiomyocyte-like cells from endogenous fibroblasts. Though many of these studies are in an early stage, this nascent technology holds promise for future applications in regenerative medicine. In this review, we discuss the history, progress, methods, challenges, and future directions of direct cardiac reprogramming.
State of the Art on the Evidence Base in Cardiac Regenerative Therapy: Overview of 41 Systematic Reviews
Authors: Peruzzi Mariangela , De Falco Elena , Abbate Antonio , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe , Chimenti Isotta , Lotrionte Marzia , Benedetto Umberto , Delewi Ronak , Marullo Antonino G. M. , Frati Giacomo
Published: June 2015

Objectives. To provide a comprehensive appraisal of the evidence from secondary research on cardiac regenerative therapy.Study Design and Setting. Overview of systematic reviews of controlled clinical trials concerning stem cell administration or mobilization in patients with cardiovascular disease.Results. After a systematic database search, we short-listed 41 reviews (660 patients). Twenty-two (54%) reviews focused on acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 19 (46%) on chronic ischemic heart disease (IHD) or heart failure (HF), 29 (71%) on bone marrow-derived stem-cells (BMSC), and 36 (88%) to randomized trials only. Substantial variability among reviews was found for validity (AMSTAR score: median 9 [minimum 3]; 1st quartile 9; 3rd quartile 10; maximum 11), effect estimates (change in ejection fraction from baseline to follow-up: 3.47% [0.02%; 2.90%; 4.22%; 6.11%]), and citations (Web of Science yearly citations: 4.1 [0; 2.2; 6.5; 68.9]). No significant association was found between these three features. However, reviews focusing on BMSC therapy had higher validity scores (P=0.008) and showed more pronounced effect estimates (P=0.002). Higher citations were associated with journal impact factor (P=0.007), corresponding author from North America/Europe (P=0.022), and inclusion of nonrandomized trials (P=0.046).Conclusions. Substantial heterogeneity is apparent among these reviews in terms of quality and effect estimates.
Gallbladder Volvulus Presenting as Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Bauman Zachary , Ruggero John , Lim John
Published: June 2015

We encountered a case of gallbladder volvulus in an 88-year-old thin female in which the initial presentation was more consistent with that of acute appendicitis. After complete work-up, including physical exam, lab work, and computed tomography, the definite diagnosis of gallbladder volvulus was not made until intraoperative visualization was obtained. Gallbladder volvulus is a rare but serious condition, which requires a high clinical suspicion so prompt surgical intervention can be undertaken.
Electrochemical Properties of La2Mg17/Ni Electrodes Prepared via TiF3-Catalysed Mechanical Milling
Authors: Li T. , Liu Z. , Zhang G. , Ruan F. , Guo R. , Zhang J.
Published: June 2015

In order to improve the hydrogen storage capacity of conventional La2Mg17electrode alloys, a nanocrystalline/amorphous-structured La2Mg17-Ni composite material was produced by high energy ball milling in the presence of TiF3. Subsequent analysis of the discharge/charge cycle performances of this electrode material revealed that its cycle stability and electrochemical capacity were greatly improved, with the latter reaching a maximum value of 787.07 mAh/g with optimisation of the TiF3addition. Moreover, a remarkable enhancement in the reversibility of electrochemical reactions on the material’s surface was also observed. Hydrogen diffusion coefficients for the material were calculated by means of a potential step method, confirming that TiF3markedly improves the long-range diffusion of hydrogen within the material.
Chemical Characteristics and Quality Assessment of Groundwater of Exploited Aquifers in Beijiao Water Source of Yinchuan, China: A Case Study for Drinking, Irrigation, and Industrial Purposes
Authors: Wu Hao , Chen Jie , Qian Hui , Zhang Xuedi
Published: June 2015

This work is aimed at reviewing the chemical characteristics and evaluation of the quality of exploited groundwater in Beijiao water source of Yinchuan. A coupled model based on osculating value method (OVM) and entropy is proposed to determine the suitability for drinking. Besides, phreatic water and confined water are evaluated for irrigation purposes and industrial purposes, respectively. Piper diagram shows different hydrochemical characteristics between aquifers, which can be explained by the control mechanisms revealed by Gibbs diagram. Chloroalkaline indices and ions relationship indicate that reverse ion exchanges occur in different aquifers. Based on the osculating values, 96% of the phreatic water samples are fit for human consumption, and the confined water can provide quality drinking water. Most of the phreatic water samples have no sodium hazard but have magnesium hazard. All the confined water samples generate mild foaming reaction, and 93% of them are mildly corrosive for boilers. An assessment by OVM without entropy is calculated. Similar results to the coupled model demonstrate that pure OVM is also objective and valid. The simple algorithm turns multicriteria decision-making problems into an integrated index which is just as useful to water quality assessment.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in a Patient with Myotonic Dystrophy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Cherif Yosra , Zantour Baha , Alaya Wafa , Berriche Olfa , Younes Samia , Sfar Mohamed Habib
Published: June 2015

Various endocrine manifestations are commonly described in myotonic dystrophy (MD), including primary hypogonadism, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid and parathyroid dysfunction. We describe a 46-year-old woman with a family history of MD with her son. She was diagnosed with cardiac arrhythmia and required the implantation of a pacemaker. She was noted to have a bilateral cataract. She complained of muscle weakness, diffuse myalgia, and palpitation. The electromyography (EMG) showed myotonic discharges. Laboratory tests showed high serum calcium 2.83 mmol/L, serum phosphate 1.2 mmol/L, parathormone 362.5 pg/mL, thyroid stimulating hormone TSH 0.02 mIU/L (normal range: 0.34–5.6 mIU/L), FT4 21.17 ng/mL, and negative anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies. Cervical ultrasound revealed a multinodular goiter. The 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy localized a lower right parathyroid adenoma. The clinical data, the family history of MD, EMG data, and endocrine disturbances were strongly suggestive of MD associated with hyperthyroidism and primary hyperparathyroidism.
Synthesis of Y‐Tip Graphitic Nanoribbons from Alcohol Catalytic Chemical Vapor Deposition on Piezoelectric Substrate
Authors: Yunusa Zainab , Abdul Rashid Suraya , Hamidon Mohd Nizar , Hafiz Syed , Ismail Ismayadi , Rahmanian Saeed
Published: June 2015

We report the synthesis of Graphitic Nanoribbons (GNRs) using Alcohol Catalytic Chemical Vapor Deposition (ACCVD). Bulk GNR was synthesized directly on a piezoelectric substrate using one‐step ACCVD. The synthesized GNRs were characterized by X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Energy Dispersive X‐Ray (EDX), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy. The characterization results showed Y‐tip morphology of bulk and filamentous as‐grown GNR having varying width that lies between tens and hundreds of nm and length of several microns. Based on the thickness obtained from the AFM and the analysis from the Raman spectroscopy, it was concluded that the synthesized GNRs are multiple‐layered and graphitic in nature. With the direct synthesis of GNR on a piezoelectric substrate, it could have applications in the sensor industries, while the Y‐tip GNR could have potentialities in semiconductor applications.
Broadband Spectroscopic Thermoacoustic Characterization of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Bauer Daniel R. , Wang Xiong , Vollin Jeff , Xin Hao , Witte Russell S.
Published: June 2015

Carbon nanotubes have attracted interest as contrast agents for biomedical imaging because they strongly absorb electromagnetic radiation in the optical and microwave regions. This study applies thermoacoustic (TA) imaging and spectroscopy to measure the frequency-dependent absorption profile of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) in the ranges of 2.7–3.1 GHz and 7–9 GHz using two tunable microwave sources. Between 7 and 9 GHz, the peak TA signal for solutions containing semiconducting and metallic SWNTs increased monotonically with a slope of 1.75 AU/GHz (R2=0.95) and 2.8 AU/GHz (R2=0.93), respectively, relative to a water baseline. However, after compensating for the background signal from water, it was revealed that the TA signal from metallic SWNTs increased exponentially within this frequency band. Results suggest that TA imaging and spectroscopy could be a powerful tool for quantifying the absorption properties of SWNTs and optimizing their performance as contrast agents for imaging or heat sources for thermal therapy.
Impact Time Guidance Law Considering Autopilot Dynamics Based on Variable Coefficients Strategy for Maneuvering Target
Authors: Shang Wei , Guo Jie , Tang Shengjing , Ma Yueyue , Zhang Yao
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates the terminal guidance problem for the missile intercepting a maneuvering target with impact time constraint. An impact time guidance law based on finite time convergence control theory is developed regarding the target motion as an unknown disturbance. To further improve the performance of the guidance law, an autopilot dynamics which is considered as a first-order lag is taken into consideration. In the proposed method, the coefficients change with the relative distance between missile and target. This variable coefficient strategy ensures that the missile impacts the target at the desired time with little final miss distance. Then it is proved that states of the guidance system converge to sliding mode in finite time under the proposed guidance law. Numerical simulations are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the impact time guidance law with autopilot dynamics (ITGAD).
A Hyperlipidic Diet Combined with Short‐Term Ovariectomy Increases Adiposity and Hyperleptinemia and Decreases Cytokine Content in Mesenteric Adipose Tissue
Authors: Neto Nelson Inacio Pinto , Rodrigues Maria Elizabeth Sousa , Hachul Ana Claudia Losinskas , Moreno Mayara Franzoi , Boldarine Valter Tadeu , Ribeiro Eliane Beraldi , Oyama Lila Missae , Oller do Nascimento Claudia Maria
Published: June 2015

Four‐week‐old female Wistar rats were divided into two groups and fed a control diet (C) or a hyperlipidic diet (H) for 4 weeks. Rats from each group underwent ovariectomy (OVX) or sham surgery (SHAM). They received C or H for the next four weeks. The body weight gain (BW), food efficiency (FE), and carcass lipid content were higher in the OVX H than in the SHAM H. The OVX H exhibited a higher serum leptin level than other groups. IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 content of mesenteric (MES) adipose tissue was lower in the OVX H than in the OVX C. IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 content of retroperitoneal (RET) adipose tissue was lower in the SHAM H than in the SHAM C. The SHAM H showed decreased TG relative to the SHAM C. Similar results were obtained in relation to IL‐6Rα, TNFR1, TLR‐4, and MyD88 contents in the MES and RET white adipose tissue among the groups. A hyperlipidic diet for 8 weeks combined with short‐term ovariectomy decreases the cytokine content of MES adipose tissues but increases BW, enhancing FE and elevating serum leptin levels. These suggest that the absence of estrogens promotes metabolic changes that may contribute to installation of a proinflammatory process induced by a hyperlipidic diet.
Infiltration of Autologous Growth Factors in Chronic Tendinopathies
Authors: Crescibene Antonio , Napolitano Marcello , Sbano Raffaella , Costabile Enrico , Almolla Hesham
Published: June 2015

Achilles tendinopathy and patellar tendinopathy are among the most frequent diagnoses in sports medicine. Therapeutic treatment of the disease is difficult, particularly in chronic cases. In literature, several studies suggest the employment of Platelet-Rich Plasma as a therapeutic alternative in tendinopathies. The choice of employing this method is based on the activity of growth factors contained in platelets which activate, amplify, and optimize the healing process. We selected 14 patients affected by Achilles tendinopathy and 7 patients affected by patellar tendinopathy, with a two-year final follow-up. These patients underwent a cycle of three tendinous infiltrations, after clinical and instrumental evaluation carried out by means of specific questionnaires and repeated ultrasound scans. Ultrasound scans of 18 patients showed signs of reduction in insertional irregularities. The result is confirmed by complete functional recovery of the patients, with painful symptomatology disappearing. The patients showed a clear pain reduction, along with an enhanced VISA score after the 24-month follow-up, equal to 84.2 points on a scale of 0 to 100. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence to suggest that PRP infiltration is a valid option to patients with chronic tendinopathy who did not benefit from other treatments.
Different Temporal Patterns of Specific and General Autobiographical Memories across the Lifespan in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Philippi Nathalie , Rousseau François , Noblet Vincent , Botzung Anne , Després Olivier , Cretin Benjamin , Kremer Stéphane , Blanc Frédéric , Manning Liliann
Published: June 2015

We compared specific (i.e., associated with a unique time and space) and general (i.e., extended or repeated events) autobiographical memories (AbM) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The comparison aims at investigating the relationship between these two components of AbM across the lifespan and the volume of cerebral regions of interest within the temporal lobe. We hypothesized that the ability to elicit specific memories would correlate with hippocampal volume, whereas evoking general memories would be related to lateral temporal lobe. AbM was assessed using the modified Crovitz test in 18 patients with early AD and 18 matched controls. The proportions of total memories—supposed to reflect the ability to produce general memories—and specific memories retrieved were compared between AD patients and controls. Correlations to MRI volumes of temporal cortex were tested. We found different temporal patterns for specific and general memories in AD patients, with (i) relatively spared general memories, according to a temporal gradient that preserved remote memories, predominantly associated with right lateral temporal cortex volume. (ii) Conversely, the retrieval of specific AbMs was impaired for all life periods and correlated with bilateral hippocampal volumes. Our results highlight a shift from an initially episodic to a semantic nature of AbMs during AD, where the abstracted form of memories remains.
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 Gene Copy Number and mRNA Expression in Primary Colorectal Cancer and Its Clinicopathologic Correlation
Authors: Kwak Yoonjin , Nam Soo Kyung , Seo An Na , Kim Duck-Woo , Kang Sung-Bum , Kim Woo Ho , Lee Hye Seung
Published: June 2015

Objectives: Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) has been reported to be overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and suggested to be a therapeutic target. In this study, we investigated FGFR1 expression and amplification in CRC and its correlation with clinicopathologic parameters. Methods:FGFR1 dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization and mRNA in situ hybridization were performed on tissue array blocks composed of 291 consecutive primary CRCs. Results: Of the 291 CRC cases, FGFR1 gene amplification was found in 11 (3.8%) cases, high FGFR1 polysomy in 4 (1.4%) cases, and FGFR1 gene copy number (GCN) gain (GCN >2) in 77 (26.5%) cases. FGFR1 GCN gain was significantly associated with left-sided location, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and higher TNM stage (p < 0.05). FGFR1 GCN gain also correlated with poor patient survival (p = 0.015). FGFR1 mRNA overexpression (score 3-4) was present in 11.7% (34/291) of the patients and was significantly associated with FGFR1 GCN alteration (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.463; p < 0.001). Conclusion:FGFR1 GCN gain was more frequently found (26.5%) than gene amplification (3.8%) and correlated with aggressive clinical behavior in consecutive CRC patients. FGFR1 GCN alteration was associated with a high FGFR1 mRNA level.
Is There a Relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Severity and Nesfatin-1?
Authors: Araz Omer , Yilmazel Ucar Elif , Dorman Emrullah , Bayraktutan Zafer , Yayla Muhammed , Yilmaz Nafiye , Acemoglu Hamit , Halici Zekai , Akgun Metin
Published: June 2015

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and obesity frequently occur together. The relationship between increased appetite and obesity is well known; however, despite existing knowledge about the relationship between OSAS and obesity, it is not fully understood. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between OSAS and the appetite-suppressing hormone nesfatin-1 independent of body mass index (BMI). Methods: A total of 134 cases were included in the study; 102 with OSAS (OSAS group) and 32 healthy controls (control group). All cases underwent polysomnography, and nesfatin-1 levels were determined. Results: Nesfatin-1 levels were significantly lower in the OSAS group compared to the control group (3,776.5 ± 204.8 and 4,056.2 ± 101.5 pg/ml, respectively; p < 0.001). In addition, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between nesfatin-1 and the apnea hypopnea index (r = -0.543; p < 0.001). The statistically significant relationship persisted after adjusting for confounding intergroup factors such as age, gender and BMI (p < 0.001). In the OSAS group, there was a statistically significant correlation between nesfatin-1 and neck circumference (r = -0.304; p = 0.02) but not between nesfatin-1 and BMI and waist circumference. There was no statistically significant difference in nesfatin-1 levels between the sexes. Conclusion: OSAS patients have lower nesfatin-1 levels compared to controls, and a greater nesfatin-1 deficit corresponds to an increased severity of OSAS and an increased neck circumference. Replacement therapy may be a potential treatment for obese OSAS patients who have lower nesfatin-1 levels, which may have additional benefits through appetite suppression and weight loss.
How Well Do Customers of Direct-to-Consumer Personal Genomic Testing Services Comprehend Genetic Test Results? Findings from the Impact of Personal Genomics Study
Authors: Ostergren Jenny E. , Gornick Michele C. , Carere Deanna Alexis , Kalia Sarah S. , Uhlmann Wendy R. , Ruffin Mack T. , Mountain Joanna L. , Green Robert C. , Roberts J. Scott ,   for the PGen Study Group
Published: June 2015

Aim: To assess customer comprehension of health-related personal genomic testing (PGT) results. Methods: We presented sample reports of genetic results and examined responses to comprehension questions in 1,030 PGT customers (mean age: 46.7 years; 59.9% female; 79.0% college graduates; 14.9% non-White; 4.7% of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity). Sample reports presented a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, carrier screening summary results for >30 conditions, results for phenylketonuria and cystic fibrosis, and drug response results for a statin drug. Logistic regression was used to identify correlates of participant comprehension. Results: Participants exhibited high overall comprehension (mean score: 79.1% correct). The highest comprehension (range: 81.1-97.4% correct) was observed in the statin drug response and carrier screening summary results, and lower comprehension (range: 63.6-74.8% correct) on specific carrier screening results. Higher levels of numeracy, genetic knowledge, and education were significantly associated with greater comprehension. Older age (≥60 years) was associated with lower comprehension scores. Conclusions: Most customers accurately interpreted the health implications of PGT results; however, comprehension varied by demographic characteristics, numeracy and genetic knowledge, and types and format of the genetic information presented. Results suggest a need to tailor the presentation of PGT results by test type and customer characteristics.
International Carbon Trade and Domestic Climate Politics
Authors: Harrison Kathryn
Published: June 2015

This article theorizes about the implications for domestic climate politics of three distinct roles countries play in the global carbon supply chain: fossil fuel producer, manufacturer of carbon-intensive goods, and final consumer. Because international responsibility is assigned to territorial emissions, countries at either end of the global supply chain effectively evade environmental responsibility by shifting fossil fuel combustion to manufacturing countries. In so doing, they lessen the political challenges of reducing domestic emissions. Although exporters of carbon-intensive goods are reluctant to disadvantage local producers, importers can craft policies that both reduce territorial emissions and create local jobs. Ironically, fossil fuel exporters can emerge as leaders in reducing their own territorial emissions, a finding illustrated by case studies of British Columbia and Norway. The conclusion argues that shifting responsibility for carbon emissions to the point of either final consumption or fossil fuel extraction could facilitate an international climate agreement.
An Ontological Politics of Comparative Environmental Analysis: The Green Economy and Local Diversity
Authors: Forsyth Tim , Levidow Les
Published: June 2015

This article contributes to comparative environmental politics by integrating comparative analysis with debates about ontological politics as well as science and technology studies. Comparative environmental analysis makes two tacit assumptions: that the subject of comparison (e.g., an environmental policy framework) is mobile and can be detached from its contexts; and that studying this subject in more than one location can identify its diffusion and implementation anywhere. These assumptions are sites of ontological politics by predetermining (or restricting) environmental outcomes. Environmental analysis needs to consider how its own comparative acts might reify supposedly global frameworks rather than acknowledging how different localities appropriate and give meaning to them in diverse ways. The concept of civic epistemologies illustrates how domestic politics are organized around supposedly global concepts, rather than how global concepts diffuse around the world, as illustrated here by a comparative analysis of the United Nations’ Green Economy Initiative.
Dual Powers, Class Compositions, and the Venezuelan People
Authors: Webber Jeffery R.
Published: June 2015

George Ciccariello-Maher’sWe Created Chávezis the most important book available in English proposing an anti-capitalist framework for understanding the Bolivarian process in contemporary Venezuela, as well as its historical backdrop dating back to 1958. The book contains within it a laudable critique of Eurocentrism and a masterful combination of oral history, ethnography, and theoretical sophistication. It reveals with unusual clarity and insight the multiplicity of popular movements that allowed for Hugo Chávez’s eventual ascension to presidential office in the late 1990s.We Created Chávezhas set a new scholarly bar for social histories of the Bolivarian process and demands serious engagement by Marxists. As a first attempt at such engagement, this paper reveals some critical theoretical and sociological flaws in the text and other areas of analytical imprecision. Divided into theoretical and historical parts, it unpacks some of the strengths and weaknesses by moving from the abstract to the concrete. The intervention begins with concepts – the mutually determining dialectic between Chávez and social movements; ‘the people’; and ‘dual power’. From here, it grounds these concepts, and Ciccariello-Maher’s use of them, in various themes and movements across specific historical periods of Venezuelan political development – the rural guerrillas of the 1960s, the urban guerrillas of the 1970s, the new urban socio-political formations of the 1980s, Afro-Indigenous struggles in the Bolivarian process, and formal and informal working-class transformations since the onset of neoliberalism and its present contestation in the Venezuelan context.
The Context of De Spiritu
Authors: Lewis Orly , Gregoric Pavel
Published: June 2015

This paper underlines the importance of the Pseudo-Aristotelian treatise De spiritu for our knowledge of early Hellenistic anatomical and physiological theories. We claim that the treatise verifies reports on certain 4th- and 3rd-century conceptions and debates otherwise attested only in later sources, and offers invaluable information on otherwise unknown ideas and discussions. Our claim is based on ten case-studies in which we explore the relation between the views found in De spiritu and known to us from other ancient sources, regarding ten specific topics. Following the results of our case-studies, we argue that De spiritu should be dated to the early decades of the 3rd century bc, after the circulation of the doctrines of Praxagoras of Cos, but before the discovery of the central nervous system by Herophilus and Erasistratus.
The Eclipse of the Sun: Sun-dials, Clocks and Natural Time in the Late Seventeenth Century
Authors: Turner Anthony
Published: June 2015

The Sun, in the early seventeenth century was, as it always had been, the ultimate arbiter of time-measurement. In the last quarter of the century however this role was called into question as the new precision of post-Huygenian clocks revealed that natural time and the artificial mean time of the clock were not the same. Initially the question was little understood by the general public. The paper examines some early attempts to explain why “Sun-time” in 1700 was no longer “true-time.”
Roman vs. Arabic Computistics in Twelfth-Century England: A Newly Discovered Source (Collatio Compoti Romani et Arabici)
Authors: Nothaft C. Philipp E.
Published: June 2015

A frequently overlooked aspect of the knowledge transfer from Arabic into Latin in the twelfth century is the introduction of the Islamo-Arabic calendar, which confronted Western computists with a radically different scheme of lunar reckoning that was in some ways superior to the 19-year lunar cycle of the Roman Church. One of the earliest sources to properly discuss this new system and compare it to the old one is the anonymous Collatio Compoti Romani et Arabici, found in a manuscript from Tewkesbury Abbey, Gloucestershire. This article contains the first edition and translation of this previously unknown text, preceded by an analysis of its content and sources. As will be argued, the text was written in the second quarter of the twelfth century as a reaction to the astronomical tables of al-Khwārizmī, recently translated by Adelard of Bath, as well as to eclipse observations that had exposed the flaws of the ‘Roman’ computation.
Lectotypification of Jatropha nana (Euphorbiaceae) with notes on its threats, and the status of Jatropha nana var. benghalensis
Authors: Nerlekar Ashish N.
Published: June 2015

Jatropha nana is an endemic and threatened taxon with restricted distribution. A lectotype for this name is designated in the present communication. Jatropha nana var. benghalensis was recently described as a new variety based on stipule morphology and size of the root. On examining specimens from the type locality, these characters were found to be present but also variable. Hence, J. nana var. benghalensis is proposed now as a synonym of J. nana. A critical taxonomic treatment for this species is provided along with notes on anthropogenic threats to the species in and around the type locality.
Centrolepis milleri (Centrolepidaceae: Poales), a new species from Western Australia
Authors: Barrett Matthew D. , Sokoloff Dmitry D.
Published: June 2015

Centrolepis milleri, a new species endemic to southwestern Western Australia is described and illustrated. The species is restricted to sandplains and currently known from several sites in the Eneabba sandplain on the southern end of the Geraldton Sandplains Bioregion and a single site on the Esperance Sandplain NE of Albany. Although apparently not collected until 2003, C. milleri is common at several locations. Specimens of C. milleri grow with their leaves mostly buried by sand. This semi-subterranean habit is possibly an adaptation to avoid light stress. Centrolepis milleri superficially resembles C. drummondiana, but differs from it in the presence of two to five cataphylls at the base of a scape, in the absence of a spikelet in the axil of the lower primary bract, in the dimorphic morphology of the primary bracts and in the presence of one long and one short tepal-like phyllome associated with each flower. The absence of a spikelet in the axil of the lower primary bract and the dimorphic nature of the primary bracts are shared with species such as C. polygyna and C. glabra, to which C. milleri is apparently related. The combination of inflorescence characteristics found in C. milleri is unique in Centrolepis, and its inclusion in phylogenetic reconstructions of inflorescence evolution in this unusual genus is therefore significant.
Elmohardyia Rafael (Diptera, Pipunculidae) from northeastern Brazil: new records and description of new species
Authors: MARQUES DAYSE W.A. , RAFAEL JOSÉ A.
Published: June 2015

Eleven species of Elmohardyia are recorded for the first time in northeastern Brazil, the most arid Brazilian region. There are two new records, E. lindneri (Collin) and E. trinidadensis (Hardy), and nine new species, which are here described and illustrated: Elmohardyia cearensis sp. nov.; E. cheliformis sp. nov.; E. distincta sp. nov.; E. formosa sp. nov.; E. limeirai sp. nov.; E. martae sp. nov.; E. potiguar sp. nov.; E. quadricornis sp. nov. and E. rosalinae sp. nov.
A taxonomic study of the genus Bagdadia Amsel, 1949 from Hainan Island of China (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: YANG MEIQING , LI HOUHUN
Published: June 2015

Five species of the genus Bagdadia Amsel are recognized from Hainan Island of China in this paper, of these, Bagdadia khaoensis (Park & Ponomarenko) comb. nov. is proposed, and it is reported for the first time from this country. One new species, Bagdadia tricornis sp. nov. is described and one possibly new species is discussed but not formally named for lack of material. Adults and genitalia of the new and the unnamed species are illustrated and a key to known species of the genus from China is provided.
New species and new records of Mesoceration Janssens, 1967 from South Africa (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae)
Authors: BILTON DAVID T.
Published: June 2015

Mesoceration Janssens, 1967 is the most speciose genus of Prosthetopinae, most of the 44 described species being restricted to South Africa, and almost all occupying the benthic zone of streams and rivers. Here seven species are described as new: Mesoceration caniplenum sp. nov., M. foggoi sp. nov., M. helmei sp. nov., M. hirsutum sp. nov., M. rugulosum sp. nov., M. sewefonteinense sp. nov. and M. sinclairi sp. nov., bringing the number of known species to 51. All seven new species have been discovered during recent, targeted sampling of South African Hydraenidae. New collection records resulting from this fieldwork are also provided for 27 previously described species, together with ecological notes.
Hooked from the deep: a rare new species of Taeniogyrus (Holothuroidea, Chiridotidae) from the continental slope of Brazil, southwestern Atlantic
Authors: MOURA RAFAEL BENDAYAN DE , CAMPOS LÚCIA DE SIQUEIRA , ESTEVES ANDRÉ MORGADO
Published: June 2015

Most species of Taeniogyrus Semper, 1867 are known from shallow water in the Indo-Pacific, with other records in Antarctica, Mediterranean Sea, and the Atlantic. A new species of Taeniogyrus is described and illustrated here from the continental slope of Campos Basin, southeast of Brazil. In this species, sigmoid hooks (336–405 µm) are much larger than in any other in the genus, bearing a long and conspicuous hook region. Wheels with six spokes (86–169 µm), inner margin with 60–125 continuous teeth, are confined to round papillae along each interradius. Polian vesicles are ventral, numerous (15–21), of different sizes, and tubular shaped with a terminal round region. This new species represents the deepest record of the genus Taeniogyrus. It increases to three the number of chiridotids in Brazilian waters, and the number of Taeniogyrus species in the Atlantic. Additionally, Taeniogyrus furcipraeditus (Salvini-Plawen, 1972) from the Mediterranean Sea and Taeniogyrus havelockensis (Rao, 1975) from the Andaman Sea are proposed as new combinations.
Diagnosing Isopycnal Diffusivity in an Eddying, Idealized Midlatitude Ocean Basin via Lagrangian, in Situ, Global, High-Performance Particle Tracking (LIGHT)
Authors: Wolfram Phillip J. , Ringler Todd D. , Maltrud Mathew E. , Jacobsen Douglas W. , Petersen Mark R.
Published: June 2015

Isopycnal diffusivity due to stirring by mesoscale eddies in an idealized, wind-forced, eddying, midlatitude ocean basin is computed using Lagrangian, in Situ, Global, High-Performance Particle Tracking (LIGHT). Simulation is performed via LIGHT within the Model for Prediction across Scales Ocean (MPAS-O). Simulations are performed at 4-, 8-, 16-, and 32-km resolution, where the first Rossby radius of deformation (RRD) is approximately 30 km. Scalar and tensor diffusivities are estimated at each resolution based on 30 ensemble members using particle cluster statistics. Each ensemble member is composed of 303 665 particles distributed across five potential density surfaces. Diffusivity dependence upon model resolution, velocity spatial scale, and buoyancy surface is quantified and compared with mixing length theory. The spatial structure of diffusivity ranges over approximately two orders of magnitude with values of O(105) m2 s−1 in the region of western boundary current separation to O(103) m2 s−1 in the eastern region of the basin. Dominant mixing occurs at scales twice the size of the first RRD. Model resolution at scales finer than the RRD is necessary to obtain sufficient model fidelity at scales between one and four RRD to accurately represent mixing. Mixing length scaling with eddy kinetic energy and the Lagrangian time scale yield mixing efficiencies that typically range between 0.4 and 0.8. A reduced mixing length in the eastern region of the domain relative to the west suggests there are different mixing regimes outside the baroclinic jet region.