bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethno‐religious Fundamentalism and Theo‐ethnocratic Politics in Israel
Authors: Leon Nissim
Published: April 2014

This article addresses the transition of a fundamentalist confrontational religious ideology into an assertive, religio‐nationalist ideology by the case of the ethno‐Ultra‐Orthodox (haredi) Shas party in Israel. Alongside the haredi proclivity towards insularity, we also detect, in recent decades, two new trends within the haredi mainstream. First, we see increasing numbers of haredim (Ultra‐Orthodox Jews) integrating into different frameworks that are situated outside of the haredi enclave: the job market, the army, welfare and charity organizations, and more. A second trend, which I will elaborate upon here, is a fundamentalist religious interpretation of elements of Israeli national identity. This trend seeks to view Jewish law, in its orthodox interpretation, as a source for the conservation and maintenance of Jewish identity in Israel: firstly, through the turning of haredism into a dominant factor in the religio‐communal arena in Israel; and secondly, through assuming responsibility for demarcating the boundaries of the Jewish collective.
ANewfoundland Ethnicity? The Political Implications of Post‐Confederation Nationalism inNewfoundland
Authors: Baker James
Published: April 2014

Ethnicity is very much at the core of the individual and has been known to constitute the basis of nationalisms. Loosely speaking, an ethnic group refers to those who identify with one another through a number of shared characteristics (e.g. culture, language, or religion). Based on this, scholars would agree that most Quebeckers meet the criteria – but what about Newfoundlanders? Does calling oneself a ‘Newfoundlander’ invoke a specific set of linguistic or cultural features that are held to be common? Are Newfoundlanders an ethnic group? If a ‘Newfoundland ethnicity’ exists, could a ‘Newfoundland ethnic identity’ lead to a post‐ConfederationNewfoundland nationalism? In order to address these questions, I use a modified version of what Anthony D. Smith (1986) says constitutes the core of national identity, theethnie, and, to place the analysis in context, I briefly discuss nationalism and ethnicity. Following this, I provide an overview of the origins of aNewfoundland ethnogenesis, a review of key post‐ConfederationNewfoundland ‘nationalist’ events, as well as an analysis of each aspect ofethniefrom aNewfoundland perspective. The article concludes by arguing that while Newfoundlanders can be considered a distinct ethnic group, the likelihood of a post‐ConfederationNewfoundland nationalism emerging is low.
The Status Quo and Development of Mathematics Education for Ethnic Minorities in China
Authors: Peng Aihui , Song Naiqing
Published: April 2014

This article addresses how mathematics education in the People's Republic of China, a unified and multinational country, is implemented to cope with the challenges of cultural diversity. The article begins with a general overview of ethnic minority education, and then attempts to articulate the various mathematical cultural practices in ethnic minority groups. The article then examines the reform, exploration, and development of mathematics education for ethnic minority groups, including curricula, teacher education, and studies in mathematics education. Finally, the authors propose a new starting point for further implementation of cultural diversity in mathematics education.
Can Neg Explain the Spatial Distribution of Wages of Chile?
Authors: Paredes Dusan
Published: April 2014

The new economic geography (NEG) has been tested to explain the spatial concentration of wages in developed countries, but it has not been evaluated for developing countries where the excessive spatial concentration seems to be related with negative consequences on the economic development. This paper covers this gap in the literature estimating by first time a NEG model for a developing country such as Chile, pursuing two research question: (1) Can the NEG explain the spatial distribution of wages in a developing country as Chile?; and (2) How can the NEG be used to infer information about the future level of spatial concentration of wages in Chile? The results suggest that the case of Chile is poorly explained by the NEG and even higher level of spatial concentration should be expected in the future. These results indicate that the empirical application of NEG is not trivial for developing countries, and some considerations such as inclusion of the first nature or analysis at micro data level must be incorporated by future researches.
Teaching Perspectives of Chinese Teachers: Compatibility With the Goals of the Physical Education Curriculum
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Sau-ching Ha Amy , Wen Xu
Published: April 2014

This research primarily aimed to examine the compatibility of teaching perspectives of teachers with the Physical Education (PE) curriculum in China. The Teaching Perspective Inventory (Pratt, 1998) was used to collect data from 272 PE teachers. Descriptive statistics, MANOVAs, and correlational procedures were used for quantitative data analysis. Results indicated that PE teachers had a common pattern of a single dominant teaching perspective. Student personal growth was addressed but less attention was given to changes in society and learners’ thinking. The findings suggest that the teachers’ perspectives may be incompatible with the focus of the current Chinese PE curriculum. Furthermore, the significant correlations among the teaching perspectives reflect the interdependence of these viewpoints. As a result, teachers’ perspectives on teaching need to be considered thoroughly when PE reformers attempt to modify the curricula. Finally, gender, years of teaching experience, and teaching level were the factors associated with the variation in teaching perspectives. However, academic degree and sampling methods (convenient sampling and random sampling) were not.
High School Students’ Attitudes Toward Fitness Testing
Authors: Mercier Kevin , Silverman Stephen
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitudes of high school students toward fitness testing. An instrument containing 18 items and four factors measuring student’s attitudes toward fitness testing: cognitive, affect-enjoyment, affect-feelings, and affect-teacher was completed by 524 boys and 675 girls (N = 1199). MANOVA indicated significant differences among the dependent variables for grade and gender. A stepwise discriminant function analysis (DFA) indicated affect-feelings then affect-enjoyment as variables that predicted these differences. Follow-up tests indicated that gender, and not grade, was the cause of the significant affect-feelings differences. MANOVA for fitness test types and the follow-up DFA indicated that students who completed the FitnessGram test had significantly higher cognitive attitudes than those who completed the President’s Challenge. The results suggest that student gender and the type of fitness test impact and lead to differences in attitudes.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacterium
Sphingobium
sp. Strain Ant17, Isolated from Antarctic Soil
Authors: Adriaenssens Evelien M. , Guerrero Leandro D. , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Aislabie Jackie M. , Cowan Don A.
Published: April 2014

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Sphingobium
sp. strain Ant17, an aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading bacterium that was isolated from Antarctic oil-contaminated soil. An analysis of this genome can lead to insights into the mechanisms of xenobiotic degradation processes at low temperatures and potentially aid in bioremediation applications.
Unique Circovirus-Like Genome Detected in Pig Feces
Authors: Cheung Andrew K. , Ng Terry Fei-fan , Lager Kelly M. , Alt David P. , Delwart Eric L. , Pogranichniy Roman M.
Published: April 2014

Using a metagenomic approach and molecular cloning methods, we identified, cloned, and sequenced the complete genome of a novel circular DNA virus, porcine stool-associated virus (PoSCV4), from pig feces. Phylogenetic analysis of the deduced replication initiator protein showed that PoSCV4 is most related to a fur seal feces-associated circular DNA virus.
Draft Genome Sequence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus KT/Y21, a Sequence Type 772 (ST772) Strain Isolated from a Pediatric Blood Sample in Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Suhaili Zarizal , Lean Soo-Sum , Yahya Azifah , Mohd Desa Mohd Nasir , Ali Abdul Manaf , Yeo Chew Chieng
Published: April 2014

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of a methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) strain, KT/Y21, isolated from a blood sample of a pediatric patient. This strain belongs to sequence type 772 (ST772), harbors the staphylococcal cassette chromosomemecelement (SCCmec) type V, and is positive for the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) pathogenic determinant.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Growth-Promoting Endophyte
Paenibacillus
sp. P22, Isolated from
Populus
Authors: Hanak Anne M. , Nagler Matthias , Weinmaier Thomas , Sun Xiaoliang , Fragner Lena , Schwab Clarissa , Rattei Thomas , Ulrich Kristina , Ewald Dietrich , Engel Marion , Schloter Michael , Bittner Romana , Schleper Christa , Weckwerth Wolfram
Published: April 2014

Paenibacillus
sp. P22 is a Gram-negative facultative anaerobic endospore-forming bacterium isolated from poplar hybrid 741 (♀[
Populus alba
× (
P. davidiana
+
P. simonii
) ×
P. tomentosa
]). This bacterium shows strong similarities to
Paenibacillus humicus
, and important growth-promoting effects on
in vitro
grown explants of poplar hybrid 741 have been described.
Draft Genome Sequences of Six Listeria monocytogenes Strains Isolated from Dairy Products from a Processing Plant in Southern Italy
Authors: Chiara Matteo , D'Erchia Anna Maria , Manzari Caterina , Minotto Alice , Montagna Cosimo , Addante Nicoletta , Santagada Gianfranco , Latorre Laura , Pesole Graziano , Horner David S. , Parisi Antonio
Published: April 2014

Here we announce the draft genome sequences of 6
Listeria monocytogenes
strains from ricotta cheese produced in a dairy processing plant located in southern Italy and potentially involved in a multistate outbreak of listeriosis in the United States.
Draft Genome Sequences of the Altered Schaedler Flora, a Defined Bacterial Community from Gnotobiotic Mice
Authors: Wannemuehler Michael J. , Overstreet Ann-Marie , Ward Doyle V. , Phillips Gregory J.
Published: April 2014

The altered Schaedler flora (ASF) is a bacterial community that supports normal growth and development of gnotobiotic mice. We report here the draft genome sequences of the 8 bacteria that comprise the ASF.
Genome Sequence of the Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Namur Strain 05-2929, Lacking the
Salmonella
Atypical Fimbrial Operon
Authors: Barbau-Piednoir Elodie , Bertrand Sophie , Roosens Nancy H. , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J.
Published: April 2014

This paper announces the genome sequence and annotation of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Namur strain 05-2929.
S.
Namur is a new serovar (39:z4,z23:−) that was isolated from a patient with salmonellosis in 2005 in Namur, Belgium, and has been identified as lacking the
Salmonella
atypical fimbrial (
saf
) operon.
Genome and Transcriptome Sequences of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae B301D-R
Authors: Dudnik Alexey , Dudler Robert
Published: April 2014

Strains of the plant pathogen
Pseudomonas syringae
are commonly found in the phylosphere and are able to infect a number of agriculturally important crops. Here, we report a high-quality draft genome sequence of
Pseudomonas syringae
pv. syringae B301D-R, isolated from pears, which is a model strain for phytotoxin research in
P. syringae
.
Syringomyelia associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion
Authors: Barros Alcalde Paula , González Quintela Arturo , Pena Seijo Marta , Pose-Reino Antonio
Published: April 2014

Hyponatraemia is the most common fluid-electrolyte disorder, and the most frequent related aetiologies are syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), which accounts for up to 38%. SIADH has been linked to multiple pathologies that affect the central nervous system; these disorders generally originate in the brain and, more rarely, in the spinal cord. It is often observed in patients undergoing neurosurgery and in patients with head injuries or intracranial tumours, and less common in those with spinal pathologies, especially traumatic. We describe an SIADH case associated with syringomyelia, in a patient admitted for severe, symptomatic hyponatraemia.
Can cycles of chills and fever resolve bipolar disorder mania?
Authors: Setsaas Audun , Vaaler Arne Einar
Published: April 2014

Treatment resistance is common in populations of patients with bipolar disorder stressing the need for new therapeutic strategies. Favourable effects of fever on mental disease have been noted throughout history. Today there is increasing evidence that immunological processes are involved in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. We present a case in which a patient with treatment resistant bipolar disorder mania seemingly recovered as a result of recurrent fever. This indicates that artificial fever might become a last resort therapy for treatment resistant mania.
Extensive intracranial involvement with multiple dissections in a case of giant cell arteritis
Authors: Parra Joana , Domingues Joana , Sargento-Freitas João , Santana Isabel
Published: April 2014

A 56-year-old man presented with weight loss, articular pain and minor neurological symptoms progressing over 1 month. Neurosonological evaluation suggested occlusion in intracranial segments of the left vertebral artery (VA) and of both internal carotid arteries (ICA) and hypoechoic halo sign in both superficial temporal arteries. The diagnosis of giant cell arteritis was supported by inflammatory markers and confirmed by biopsy. Despite early steroid initiation, he manifested fluctuant vascular deficits and became lethargic. Brain MRI indicated watershed infarcts and intracranial dissections of left VA and both ICA. The patient was stabilised with the association of prednisolone 2 mg/kg, methotrexate and oral anticoagulation. Since then he has been neurologically asymptomatic and control imaging showed only residual intracranial left VA stenosis, with no signs of temporal artery inflammation or new vascular lesions. This is to the best of our knowledge, the first reported clinical case with such an extensive intracranial involvement with multiple dissections.
Reduced magnetisation transfer ratio in cognitively impaired patients at the very early stage of multiple sclerosis: a prospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study
Authors: Faiss J H , Dähne D , Baum K , Deppe R , Hoffmann F , Köhler W , Kunkel A , Lux A , Matzke M , Penner I K , Sailer M , Zettl U K
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Cognitive impairment belongs to the core symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS) and can already be present at the very early stages of the disease. The present study evaluated cognitive functioning after the first clinical presentation suggestive of MS and brain tissue damage in a non-lesion focused MRI approach by using magnetisation transfer imaging (MTI).

Setting and participants

47 patients (15 men and 32 women; mean age: 31.17 years) after the first clinical event suggestive of MS were recruited in six different MS centres in Germany and underwent a neuropsychological test battery including tests for attention, memory and executive function as well as depression and fatigue. MTI and conventional MRI measures (T1/T2 lesion load) were assessed. In addition, Magnetisation Transfer Ratio (MTR) maps were calculated. Primary outcome measure was the investigation of cognitive dysfunction in very early MS in correlation to MRI data.

Results

55.3% of patients with MS failed at least one test parameter. Specifically, 6% were reduced in working memory, 14.9% in focused attention, 25.5% in figural learning and up to 14.9% in executive function. When the sample was subdivided into cognitively impaired and preserved, MTR scores within the cognitively impaired subgroup were significantly lower compared with the preserved group (t(43)=2.346, p=0.02*). No significant differences between the two groups were found in T2-weighted and T1-weighted lesion volume.

Conclusions

After the first MS-related clinical event, 55.3% of patients showed distinct cognitive deficits. Cognitively impaired patients had significantly lower whole brain MTR, but no differences in focal brain lesion volumes supporting the idea that early cognitive deficits may be related to diffuse loss of brain tissue integrity.
Apoptotic enteropathy caused by antimetabolites and TNF-α antagonists
Authors: Soldini Davide , Gaspert Ariana , Montani Matteo , Reineke Tanja , Rogler Gerhard , Odze Robert , Weber Achim
Published: April 2014

Aims

To investigate whether drugs others than mycophenolic acid and ipilimumab might cause graft-versus-host-like apoptotic enteropathy, the clinicopathological findings in four patients were examined who had developed watery diarrhoea and apoptotic enteropathy (three cases from colon and one case from ileal pouch) after intake of antimetabolites (methotrexate and capecitabine) and/or tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitors (etanercept and infliximab).

Methods

The clinical charts, endoscopy reports and intestinal biopsies from all endoscopies were reviewed for all patients. Biopsies were evaluated semiquantitatively for apoptosis of basal crypts, dilated damaged crypts, defined as cystically dilated crypts with flattened degenerated epithelium containing apoptotic debris and few neutrophils, and mucosal architecture. Further, the presence of intraepithelial lymphocytes, chronic inflammatory cells in the lamina propria and mucosal ulcerations was recorded and immunohistochemical analysis for human cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus was performed.

Results

Endoscopic examination revealed normal mucosa in two patients, whereas the other two showed focal ulcerations. Histological changes included increased apoptosis of basal crypts, the presence of dilated damaged crypts and architecture distortion. In all cases, a temporal association between drug intake and/or dose increase, and onset of diarrhoea, was observed, and no convincing evidence of other potentially underlying causes of colitis/enteritis was found, including infections.

Conclusions

Pathologists should be aware of the expanding spectrum of drugs that can cause apoptotic enteropathy, including antimetabolites and tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitors.
Simplified probabilistic slope stability design charts for cohesive and cohesive-frictional (c-ϕ) soils
Authors: Javankhoshdel Sina , Bathurst Richard J.
Published: April 2014

Design charts to estimate the factor of safety for simple slopes with cohesive-frictional (c-[Formula: see text]) soils are now available in the literature; however, the factor of safety is an imperfect measure for quantifying the margin of safety of a slope because nominal identical slopes with the same factor of safety can have different probabilities of failure due to variability in soil properties. In this study, simple circular slip slope stability charts for [Formula: see text] = 0 soils by Taylor in 1937 and c-[Formula: see text] soils published by Steward et al. in 2011 are extended to match estimates of factors of safety to corresponding probabilities of failure. A series of new charts are provided that consider a practical range of coefficient of variation for cohesive and frictional strength parameters of the soil. The data to generate the new charts were produced using conventional probabilistic concepts together with closed-form solutions for cohesive soil cases, and Monte Carlo simulation in combination with conventional limit equilibrium-based circular slip analyses using the SVSlope program for c-[Formula: see text] soil cases. The charts are a useful tool for geotechnical engineers when making a preliminary estimate of the probability of failure of a simple slope without running Monte Carlo simulations.
Dependence of open circuit voltage in a-Si:H and μc-Si:H solar cells on defect density in absorber layer varied by 2 MeV electron bombardment
Authors: Astakhov O. , Smirnov V. , Carius R. , Pieters B.E. , Petrusenko Yu. , Borysenko V. , Finger F.
Published: April 2014

Theoretically predicted values of the open circuit voltage (VOC) for a-Si:H or μc-Si:H based solar cells are substantially higher than the values achieved in of state-of-the-art devices. Fundamentally, open circuit voltage is determined by generation-recombination kinetics, where recombination is often controlled by the defect density in the absorber layer of a solar cell. The latter aspect is the focus of the paper. The relation between the VOC and the bulk recombination in the absorber layer is addressed in experiment by varying the defect density. The absorber layer defect density (spin density, NS, monitored with ESR) in a-Si:H and μc-Si:H solar cells was varied over two orders of magnitude using a 2 MeV electron bombardment and successive stepwise annealing. The results of the electron bombardment experiment are analyzed with respect to the illumination intensity dependency of the VOC, measured for the same set of a-Si:H and μc-Si:H solar cells. We find that the VOC of a-Si:H solar cells is not limited by defects in the bulk of the absorber layer, even at relatively high defect density up to 3–5 × 1016 cm−3 and, therefore, other limiting mechanisms have to be identified to improve voltage in these devices. In contrast, μc-Si:H solar cells show nearly classical VOC–NS relation. The bulk defect density in μc-Si:H absorber layer is thus likely the key limiting factor for VOC in these devices at present status of material quality (NS of 3–7 × 1015 cm−3). Further optimization of μc-Si:H in terms of bulk defect density is highly relevant for VOC improvement in solar cells.
TRAPPING ON WEIGHTED TETRAHEDRON KOCH NETWORKS WITH SMALL-WORLD PROPERTY
Authors: DAI MEIFENG , XIE QI , XI LIFENG
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we present weighted tetrahedron Koch networks depending on a weight factor. According to their self-similar construction, we obtain the analytical expressions of the weighted clustering coefficient and average weighted shortest path (AWSP). The obtained solutions show that the weighted tetrahedron Koch networks exhibits small-world property. Then, we calculate the average receiving time (ART) on weighted-dependent walks, which is the sum of mean first-passage times (MFPTs) for all nodes absorpt at the trap located at a hub node. We find that the ART exhibits a sublinear or linear dependence on network order.
Fully coupled forward–backward stochastic dynamics and functional differential systems
Authors: Casserini Matteo , Liang Gechun
Published: April 2014

This paper introduces and solves a general class of fully coupled forward–backward stochastic dynamics by investigating the associated system of functional differential equations. As a consequence, we are able to solve many different types of forward–backward stochastic differential equations (FBSDEs) that do not fit in the classical setting. In our approach, the equations are running in the same time direction rather than in a forward and backward way, and the conflicting nature of the structure of FBSDEs is therefore avoided.
Fuzzy Multi-Objective Linear Programming Based on Compromise VIKOR Method
Authors: Hajiagha Seyed Hossein Razavi , Mahdiraji Hannan Amoozad , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Hashemi Shide Sadat
Published: April 2014

Real-world decision-making problems often consist in considering multiple and antithetic objectives. Therefore, multi-objective decision making (MODM) is a practical framework in implicational areas. In this paper, a fuzzy MODM problem is considered, where all of its parameters are defined fuzzily, and a solution inspired by multi-attribute VIKOR method is proposed. The proposed method tries to find fuzzy efficient solution for a problem by minimizing its combinational distance from an ideal and anti-ideal solution. This method can reveal the efficient frontier of the problem. Applicability of the proposed method is shown in an illustrative example and its application is summarized in an investment problem. Both examples show applicability of the proposed method.
Implications of Technology Management and Policy on the Development of a Sectoral Innovation System: Lessons Learned Through the Evolution of Thai Automotive Sector
Authors: Intarakumnerd Patarapong , Gerdsri Nathasit
Published: April 2014

This paper examines how a sectoral innovation system evolves over time and what the underlying factors derive from the development of automotive industry in Thailand which is presented as a case example. Since 1960's, the government policies and the development of liberal investment climate have been a push for the influx of large-scale foreign direct investments (FDI) in Thailand. Automotive industry has also been targeted as a major assembly base of foreign carmakers while the local suppliers were mostly slow and passive learners. In the late- 1990's, foreign carmakers began acting as "lead" firms to invest in R&D and related activities. This induced positive coevolution in other actors, especially the first-tier foreign suppliers and some local suppliers, in the sectoral innovation systems which, in turn, became stronger, more coherent and product-specific. According to Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI), the production volume is expected to grow to two million units by 2015 which would bring Thailand to be on the top-ten list of the largest auto-producers in the world. This research paper has implications on the concept of sectoral innovation system, corporate technology strategies and government technology and innovation policies.
Bounding Fitting Heights of Two Classes of Character Degree Graphs
Authors: Zhang Xianxiu , Zhang Guangxiang
Published: April 2014

In this article, we prove that a finite solvable group with character degree graph containing at least four vertices has Fitting height at most 4 if each derived subgraph of four vertices has total degree not more than 8. We also prove that if the vertex set ρ(G) of the character degree graph Δ(G) of a solvable group G is a disjoint union ρ(G) = π1 ∪ π2, where |πi| ≥ 2 and pi, qi∈ πi for i = 1,2, and no vertex in π1 is adjacent in Δ(G) to any vertex in π2 except for p1p2 and q1q2, then the Fitting height of G is at most 4.
Multiple Legendre polynomials in diophantine approximation
Authors: Marcovecchio Raffaele
Published: April 2014

We construct a class of multiple Legendre polynomials and prove that they satisfy an Apéry-like recurrence. We give new upper bounds of the approximation measures of logarithms of rational numbers by algebraic numbers of bounded degree. We prove, e.g., that the nonquadraticity exponent of log 2 is bounded from above by 12.841618…, thus improving upon a recent result of the author. Our construction also yields some other known results.
The transition from Variscan collision to continental break-up in the Alps: insights from the comparison between natural data and numerical model predictions
Authors: Spalla Maria Iole , Zanoni Davide , Marotta Anna Maria , Rebay Gisella , Roda Manuel , Zucali Michele , Gosso Guido
Published: April 2014

Records of Variscan structural and metamorphic imprints in the Alps indicate that before Pangaea fragmentation, the continental lithosphere was thermally and mechanically perturbed during Variscan subduction and collision. A diffuse igneous activity associated with high-temperature (HT) metamorphism, accounting for a Permian–Triassic high thermal regime, is peculiar to the Alpine area and has been interpreted as induced either by late-orogenic collapse or by lithospheric extension and thinning leading to continental rifting. Intra-continental basins hosting Permian volcanic products have been interpreted as developed either in a late-collisional strike-slip or in a continental rifting setting. Two-dimensional finite element models have been used to shed light on the transition between the late Variscan orogenic evolution and lithospheric thinning that, since Permian–Triassic time, announced the opening of Tethys. Comparison of model predictions with a broad set of natural metamorphic, structural, sedimentary and igneous data suggests that the late collisional gravitational evolution does not provide a thermo-mechanical outline able to justify mantle partial melting, evidenced by emplacement of huge gabbro bodies and regional-scale high-temperature metamorphism during Permian–Triassic time. An active extension is required to obtain model predictions comparable with natural data inferred from the volumes of the Alpine basement that were poorly reactivated during Mesozoic–Tertiary convergence.
A Primer on Provenance
Authors: Carata Lucian , Akoush Sherif , Balakrishnan Nikilesh , Bytheway Thomas , Sohan Ripduman , Seltzer Margo , Hopper Andy
Published: April 2014

Assessing the quality or validity of a piece of data is not usually done in isolation. You typically examine the context in which the data appears and try to determine its original sources or review the process through which it was created. This is not so straightforward when dealing with digital data, however: the result of a computation might have been derived from numerous sources and by applying complex successive transformations, possibly over long periods of time.
ATP-binding cassette transporter Abcg2 lineage contributes to the cardiac vasculature after oxidative stress
Authors: Maher Travis J. , Ren Yi , Li Qinglu , Braunlin Elizabeth , Garry Mary G. , Sorrentino Brian P. , Martin Cindy M.
Published: April 2014

Due to their specialized location, stem and progenitor cells are often exposed to oxidative stress. Although ATP-binding cassette transporter subfamily G member 2 (Abcg2)-expressing cells have been implicated in cardiac protective mechanisms involving oxidative stress, there remains a lack of understanding regarding the behavior of cardiac Abcg2-expressing cells when exposed to ROS. The aim of the present study was to characterize the response of the cardiac Abcg2 lineage to oxidative stress. In vitro analysis demonstrated that the antioxidant program regulated by Abcg2 is dependent on a functional transporter. Delivery of paraquat dichloride (PQ), a systemic oxidative stress-inducing agent, to mice confirmed that Abcg2 provides a survival benefit. When exposed to PQ, reporter mice showed an increase in the Abcg2 lineage. Transcriptional and immunohistochemical analysis of Abcg2 lineage-positive cells revealed an enhanced vascular commitment after stress. Finally, preconditioning with PQ demonstrated a reduction in scar size and an increase in angiogenesis after permanent left coronary artery ligation. In conclusion, the data suggest that Abcg2 plays a cytoprotective role in response to in vivo oxidative stress. The contribution of the Abcg2 lineage to the vasculature in the heart is increased after PQ delivery.
Blood mRNA Expression Profiling Predicts Survival in Patients Treated with Tremelimumab
Authors: Saenger Yvonne , Magidson Jay , Liaw Bobby , de Moll Ellen , Harcharik Sara , Fu Yichun , Wassmann Karl , Fisher David , Kirkwood John , Oh William K. , Friedlander Philip
Published: April 2014

Purpose: Tremelimumab (ticilimumab, Pfizer), is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4). Ipilimumab (Yervoy, BMS), another anti-CTLA-4 antibody, is approved by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Biomarkers are needed to identify the subset of patients who will achieve tumor control with CTLA-4 blockade.

Experimental Design: Pretreatment peripheral blood samples from 218 patients with melanoma who were refractory to prior therapy and receiving tremelimumab in a multicenter phase II study were measured for 169 mRNA transcripts using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A two-class latent model yielded a risk score based on four genes that were highly predictive of survival (P < 0.001). This signature was validated in an independent population of 260 treatment-naïve patients with melanoma enrolled in a multicenter phase III study of tremelimumab.

Results: Median follow-up was 297 days for the training population and 386 days for the test population. Expression levels of the 169 genes were closely correlated across the two populations (r = 0.9939). A four-gene model, including cathepsin D (CTSD), phopholipase A2 group VII (PLA2G7), thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1), and interleukin 1 receptor–associated kinase 3 (IRAK3), predicted survival in the test population (P = 0.001 by log-rank test). This four-gene model added to the predictive value of clinical predictors (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Expression levels of CTSD, PLA2G7, TXNRD1, and IRAK3 in peripheral blood are predictive of survival in patients with melanoma treated with tremelimumab. Blood mRNA signatures should be further explored to define patient subsets likely to benefit from immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 20(12); 3310–8. ©2014 AACR.
Digestive Function of the Stomach
Authors: O'Connor Anthony , O'Moráin Colm
Published: April 2014

The core function of the human stomach is as an aid to digestion. The four key components of gastric digestive function are its function as a reservoir, acid secretion, enzyme secretion and its role in gastrointestinal motility. The reservoir capacity of the stomach allows it to increase its volume significantly while internal pressure increases only slightly. Acid secretion is a very important non-immunological defence against invading pathogens as well as being an important mechanism for vertebrates to have more complex diets. Stimulation of acid secretion involves the translocation of H+/K+-ATPases to the apical membrane of the parietal cell. The stomach is also an important endocrine organ producing an array of peptide hormones important for both enteric and non-enteric physiology including ghrelin and leptin. In addition to the reservoir function, the stomach also plays an important motility role as a pump, which anatomically is provided by the distal two thirds of the corpus, the antrum and the pylorus. This article examines those four functions and the role that they play in normal physiologic function and examines how they may play a role in pathologic states.
Lifestyle and Gastric Function
Authors: Kuipers Ernst J.
Published: April 2014

The stomach has a range of functions, including chemical digestion and mechanical breakdown of food, temporary storage of bulk intake, and regulation of the passage of nutrients into the duodenum. Further gastric functions are the nonspecific defense against microbes entering the gastrointestinal tract, preparation of ions as well as liberation of protein-bound cobalamin and production of intrinsic factor for uptake further along the tract, and finally limited absorption of water, alcohol, and some fat-soluble food components including some drugs. These functions are influenced by various lifestyle factors, such as smoking and alcohol intake with interference by Helicobacter pylori colonization. This paper focuses on the interaction between lifestyle and gastric function.
Helicobacter pylori and Gastric Cancer
Authors: Bornschein Jan , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: April 2014

Infection with Helicobacter pylori is established as the major risk factor for gastric cancer development. Damage of the mucosal barrier due to H. pylori-induced inflammation enhances the carcinogenic effect of other risk factors such as salt intake or tobacco smoking. The genetic disposition of both the bacterial strain and the host can increase the potential towards gastric cancer formation. Genetic variance of the bacterial proteins CagA and VacA is associated with a higher gastric cancer risk, as are polymorphisms and epigenetic changes in host gene coding for interleukins (IL1β, IL8), transcription factors (CDX2, RUNX3) and DNA repair enzymes. Application of high-throughput assays for genome-wide assessment of either genetic structural variance or gene expression patterns may lead to a better understanding of the pathobiological background of these processes, including the underlying signaling pathways. Understanding of the stepwise alterations that take place in the transition from chronic atrophic gastritis, via metaplastic changes, to invasive neoplasia is vital to define the ‘point of no return' before which eradication of H. pylori has the potential to prevent gastric cancer. Currently, eradication as preventive strategy is only recommended for high-incidence regions in Asia; large population studies with an adequate follow-up are required to demonstrate the effectiveness of such an approach in Western populations.
The Korean Perspective of Helicobacter pylori Infection: Lessons from the Japanese Government's Policy to Prevent Gastric Cancer
Authors: Park Jong-Min , Hahm Ki Baik
Published: April 2014

The guideline of the Korean College of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research group for Helicobacter pylori infection was first produced in 1998, when definite indication for H. pylori eradication is early gastric cancer in addition to the previous indications of peptic ulcer (PUD) including scar lesion and marginal zone B cell lymphoma (MALT type). Though treatment is recommended for the relatives of a patient with gastric cancer, unexplained iron deficiency anemia, and chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a consensus treatment guideline is the treatment of PUD, MALToma, and gastric cancer in Korea. One- or 2-week treatment with proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based triple therapy consisting of one PPI and 2 antibiotics, clarithromycin and amoxicillin, is recommended as the first-line treatment regimen. In the case of treatment failure, one or 2 weeks of quadruple therapy (PPI + metronidazole + tetracycline + bismuth) is recommended, whose eradication regimen was not different between Korea and Japan. Though the treatment regimen was similar between two nations, the Japanese government declared the inclusion of H. pylori eradication in patients with H. pylori-associated chronic gastritis, reaching the conclusion that the treatment guideline became quite different between Korea and Japan from February 21, 2013. The prime rationale of the Japanese extended treatment guideline for H. pylori infection was based on the drastic intention to prevent gastric cancer as well as the improvement of chronic gastritis-associated functional dyspepsia based on their findings that H. pylori eradication might decrease gastric cancer incidence as well as mortality. In this review, the discrepancy between the Korean and Japanese treatment guidelines will be explained; why and how?
Management of Helicobacter pylori-Related Diseases in the Baltic States
Authors: Kupcinskas Juozas , Leja Marcis
Published: April 2014

Helicobacter pylori infection has been recognized as the main trigger of stomach-related diseases. The huge variation in H. pylori infection patterns across the globe requires targeted research and close monitoring of this infection in different regions. The Baltic countries have witnessed enormous changes in socioeconomic conditions in the last years. Evolution of H. pylori infection and related diseases has been a key interest of gastroenterology centers in the Baltic States over the last two decades, translating into up-to-date scientific data that are valuable locally and on the European level. The East-West gradient in the prevalence of H. pylori infection is still evident in the Baltic countries, but the gap is becoming smaller, and similar trends are expected for the coming years. Clarithromycin-based triple therapy remains the first-line treatment of H. pylori in the region; however, careful monitoring of resistance rates in the future remains highly relevant, though routine resistance testing is not available in all the countries. A high prevalence of gastric cancer is still notable in the Baltic States; nevertheless, a steady decline in gastric cancer incidence in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia is present and expected to be continuing during the coming decades. Currently, H. pylori-related diseases still constitute a substantial part of gastroenterologists' workload in the region. This paper reviews epidemiological, diagnostic, treatment as well as basic research trends on H. pylori infection and related diseases in the Baltic States during the last two decades.
Therapeutic Options for Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Vanheel H. , Tack J.
Published: April 2014

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is defined by the presence of chronic gastroduodenal symptoms in the absence of organic or systemic disease that explains them, and a negative upper endoscopy. According to the Rome III consensus, FD can be subdivided into PDS (postprandial distress syndrome) and EPS (epigastric pain syndrome). In patients with mild symptoms, reassurance and lifestyle adjustments are often sufficient. Pharmacotherapy, for those with more severe or persisting symptoms, includes the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), prokinetics and psychotropic agents. In those diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection, eradication is recommended, although the symptom impact is often limited. PPIs are the initial therapy of choice for EPS, while prokinetics can be used in PDS. Tricyclic antidepressants can be used for refractory symptoms, especially in EPS. Emerging therapies include the novel gastroprokinetic agent acotiamide for PDS, fundus-relaxing 5-HT1A agonists in patients with PDS/early satiation and mirtazapine for FD with weight loss.
The Missing Link between Clinical States and Biomarkers in Mental Disorders
Authors: Fava Giovanni A. , Guidi Jenny , Grandi Silvana , Hasler Gregor
Published: April 2014

Current diagnostic definitions of psychiatric disorders based on collections of symptoms encompass very heterogeneous populations and are thus likely to yield spurious results when exploring biological correlates of mental disturbances. It has been suggested that large studies of biomarkers across diagnostic entities may yield improved clinical information. Such a view is based on the concept of assessment as a collection of symptoms devoid of any clinical judgment and interpretation. Yet, important advances have been made in recent years in clinimetrics, the science of clinical judgment. The current clinical taxonomy in psychiatry, which emphasizes reliability at the cost of clinical validity, does not include effects of comorbid conditions, timing of phenomena, rate of progression of an illness, responses to previous treatments, and other clinical distinctions that demarcate major prognostic and therapeutic differences among patients who otherwise seem to be deceptively similar since they share the same psychiatric diagnosis. Clinimetrics may provide the missing link between clinical states and biomarkers in psychiatry, building pathophysiological bridges from clinical manifestations to their neurobiological counterparts.
Clinical Management of Helicobacter pylori: The Latin American Perspective
Authors: Coelho Luiz Gonzaga , Coelho Maria Clara
Published: April 2014

In most South American countries, Helicobacter pylori infection prevalence is high, affecting over 70% in populations with precarious living conditions. It is worth pointing out that there is initial evidence of a decline in prevalence of H. pylori infection at least in some more privileged fragments of the population. It is estimated that gastric cancer, the main clinical sequela of H. pylori infection, has an average incidence rate of 12.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (8.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for women and 17.3 cases per 100,000 for men) in the region. Classical triple therapy [proton pump inhibitor (PPI), amoxicillin and clarithromycin] is still the most used regimen with eradication rates around 80%. The rates of resistance to clarithromycin range from 2 to 24%. Recurrence rates of the infection are described as 2.9% in Argentina, 4.2% in Chile, 2-7% in Brazil, and 11.5% in a trial involving 7 Latin American countries. After failure of clarithromycin-containing regimens, second- and third-line therapies using PPI, amoxicillin and levofloxacin and quadruple therapy with PPI, colloidal bismuth subcitrate, tetracycline hydrochloride and metronidazole are recommended. Due to the high rates of primary resistance to metronidazole in the Latin American countries, use of the quadruple therapy, replacing metronidazole for furazolidone, is a frequent option. Rescue triple therapy regimens using furazolidone in association with levofloxacin and PPI have also been used. Most recommended rescue therapies reach eradication rates close to 80%.
Deficiency of Endothelial
Cxcr4
Reduces Reendothelialization and Enhances Neointimal Hyperplasia After Vascular Injury in Atherosclerosis-Prone Mice
Authors: Noels Heidi , Zhou Baixue , Tilstam Pathricia V. , Theelen Wendy , Li Xiaofeng , Pawig Lukas , Schmitz Corinna , Akhtar Shamima , Simsekyilmaz Sakine , Shagdarsuren Erdenechimeg , Schober Andreas , Adams Ralf H. , Bernhagen Jürgen , Liehn Elisa A. , Döring Yvonne , Weber Christian
Published: April 2014

Objective—

The Cxcl12/Cxcr4 chemokine ligand/receptor axis mediates the mobilization of smooth muscle cell progenitors, driving injury-induced neointimal hyperplasia. This study aimed to investigate the role of endothelial Cxcr4 in neointima formation.

Approach and Results—

β-Galactosidase staining using bone marrow x kinase (
Bmx
)
-CreER

T2

reporter mice and double immunofluorescence revealed an efficient and endothelial-specific deletion of
Cxcr4
in
Bmx-CreER

T2+

compared with
Bmx-CreER

T2−

Cxcr4-floxed
apolipoprotein E–deficient (
Apoe
−/−
) mice (referred to as
Cxcr4

EC-KO

ApoE
−/−
and
Cxcr4

EC-WT

ApoE
−/−
, respectively). Endothelial
Cxcr4
deficiency significantly increased wire injury–induced neointima formation in carotid arteries from
Cxcr4

EC-KO

ApoE
−/−
mice. The lesions displayed a higher number of macrophages, whereas the smooth muscle cell and collagen content were reduced. This was associated with a significant reduction in reendothelialization and endothelial cell proliferation in injured
Cxcr4

EC-KO

ApoE
−/−
carotids compared with
Cxcr4

EC-WT

ApoE
−/−
controls. Furthermore, stimulation of human aortic endothelial cells with chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12) significantly enhanced their wound-healing capacity in an in vitro scratch assay, an effect that could be reversed with the CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100. Also, flow cytometric analysis showed a reduced mobilization of Sca1
+
Flk1
+
Cd31
+
and of Lin
−
Sca1
+
progenitors in
Cxcr4

EC-KO

ApoE
−/−
mice after vascular injury, although Cxcr4 surface expression was unaltered. No differences could be detected in plasma concentrations of Cxcl12, vascular endothelial growth factor, sphingosine 1-phosphate, or Flt3 (fms-related tyrosine kinase 3) ligand, all cytokines with an established role in progenitor cell mobilization. Nonetheless, double immunofluorescence revealed a significant reduction in local endothelial Cxcl12 staining in injured carotids from
Cxcr4

EC-KO

ApoE
−/−
mice.

Conclusions—

Endothelial
Cxcr4
is crucial for efficient reendothelialization after vascular injury through endothelial wound healing and proliferation, and through the mobilization of Sca1
+
Flk1
+
Cd31
+
cells, often referred to as circulating endothelial progenitor cells.