bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient importance sampling schemes for a feed-forward network
Authors: Setayeshgar Leila , Wang Hui
Published: December 2013

The aim of this article is to construct efficient importance sampling schemes for a rare event, namely, the buffer overflow associated with a feed-forward network with discontinuous dynamics. This is done through a piecewise constant change of measure, which is based on a suitably constructed subsolution to an HJB equation. The main task is to change the measure such that the logarithmic asymptotic optimality is achieved. To that end, we find an upper bound on the second moment of the importance sampling estimator that yields optimality. Numerical simulations illustrate the validity of theoretical results.
A programmable memory controller for the DDRx interfacing standards
Authors: Bojnordi Mahdi Nazm , Ipek Engin
Published: December 2013

Modern memory controllers employ sophisticated address mapping, command scheduling, and power management optimizations to alleviate the adverse effects of DRAM timing and resource constraints on system performance. A promising way of improving the versatility and efficiency of these controllers is to make them programmable—a proven technique that has seen wide use in other control tasks, ranging from DMA scheduling to NAND Flash and directory control. Unfortunately, the stringent latency and throughput requirements of modern DDRx devices have rendered such programmability largely impractical, confining DDRx controllers to fixed-function hardware.

This article presents the instruction set architecture (ISA) and hardware implementation of PARDIS, a programmable memory controller that can meet the performance requirements of a high-speed DDRx interface. The proposed controller is evaluated by mapping previously proposed DRAM scheduling, address mapping, refresh scheduling, and power management algorithms onto PARDIS. Simulation results show that the average performance of PARDIS comes within 8% of fixed-function hardware for each of these techniques; moreover, by enabling application-specific optimizations, PARDIS improves system performance by 6 to 17% and reduces DRAM energy by 9 to 22% over four existing memory controllers.
An Analytical Model for Evaluating Static Power of Homogeneous FPGA Architectures
Authors: Leow Yoon Kah , Akoglu Ali , Lysecky Susan
Published: December 2013

As capacity of the field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) continues to increase, power dissipated in the logic and routing resources has become a critical concern for FPGA architects. Recent studies have shown that static power is fast approaching the dynamic power in submicron devices. In this article, we propose an analytical model for relating homogeneous island-style-based FPGA architecture to static power. Current FPGA power models are tightly coupled with CAD tools. Our CAD-independent model captures the static power for a given FPGA architecture based on estimates of routing and logic resource utilizations from a pre-technology mapped netlist. We observe an average correlation ratio (C-Ratio) of 95% and a minimum absolute percentage error (MAPE) rate of 15% with respect to the experimental results generated by the Versatile Placement Routing (VPR) tool over the MCNC benchmarks. Our model offers application engineers and FPGA architects the capability to evaluate the impact of their design choices on static power without having to go through CAD-intensive investigations.
Inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4 suppresses liver injury induced by biliary obstruction and subsequent intraportal lipopolysaccharide injection
Authors: Oya Shingo , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Kokuryo Toshio , Uno Masanori , Yamauchi Kohei , Nagino Masato
Published: December 2013

The objective of this study was to elucidate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in liver injury induced by biliary obstruction and subsequent intraportal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infusion in rats. Biliary obstruction often leads to the development of bacterial translocation. Rats were subjected to either a sham operation (Sham group) or bile duct ligation for 7 days (BDL group). Seven days after each operation, LPS (0.5 μg) was injected through the ileocecal vein. In other experiments, rats that had undergone BDL were pretreated, before LPS challenge, with internal biliary drainage (Drainage group); intravenous TAK-242, a TLR4 inhibitor (TAK group); or intravenous GdCl3, a Kupffer cell deactivator (GdCl3group). The expression of the TLR4 protein and the number of Kupffer cells in the liver were significantly increased in the BDL group compared with the Sham group. These changes were normalized after biliary drainage. The expression of TLR4 colocalized with Kupffer cells, which was confirmed by double immunostaining. Serum levels of liver enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines after intraportal LPS injection were significantly higher in the BDL group than in the Sham group. However, pretreatment with TAK-242 or GdCl3strongly attenuated these changes to levels similar to those seen with biliary drainage. These results imply that blocking TLR4 signaling effectively attenuates liver damage to the same level as that observed with biliary drainage in rats with BDL and subsequent intraportal LPS infusion. TAK-242 treatment may be used for patients who are susceptible to liver damage by biliary obstruction and endotoxemia.
Fatigue-related firing of distal muscle nociceptors reduces voluntary activation of proximal muscles of the same limb
Authors: Kennedy David S. , McNeil Chris J. , Gandevia Simon C. , Taylor Janet L.
Published: December 2013

With fatiguing exercise, firing of group III/IV muscle afferents reduces voluntary activation and force of the exercised muscles. These afferents can also act across agonist/antagonist pairs, reducing voluntary activation and force in nonfatigued muscles. We hypothesized that maintained firing of group III/IV muscle afferents after a fatiguing adductor pollicis (AP) contraction would decrease voluntary activation and force of AP and ipsilateral elbow flexors. In two experiments ( n = 10) we examined voluntary activation of AP and elbow flexors by measuring changes in superimposed twitches evoked by ulnar nerve stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex, respectively. Inflation of a sphygmomanometer cuff after a 2-min AP maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) blocked circulation of the hand for 2 min and maintained firing of group III/IV muscle afferents. After a 2-min AP MVC, maximal AP voluntary activation was lower with than without ischemia (56.2 ± 17.7% vs. 76.3 ± 14.6%; mean ± SD; P < 0.05) as was force (40.3 ± 12.8% vs. 57.1 ± 13.8% peak MVC; P < 0.05). Likewise, after a 2-min AP MVC, elbow flexion voluntary activation was lower with than without ischemia (88.3 ± 7.5% vs. 93.6 ± 3.9%; P < 0.05) as was torque (80.2 ± 4.6% vs. 86.6 ± 1.0% peak MVC; P < 0.05). Pain during ischemia was reported as Moderate to Very Strong. Postfatigue firing of group III/IV muscle afferents from the hand decreased voluntary drive and force of AP. Moreover, this effect decreased voluntary drive and torque of proximal unfatigued muscles, the elbow flexors. Fatigue-sensitive group III/IV muscle nociceptors act to limit voluntary drive not only to fatigued muscles but also to unfatigued muscles within the same limb.
Results on a Binding Neuron Model and Their Implications for Modified Hourglass Model for Neuronal Network
Authors: Arunachalam Viswanathan , Akhavan-Tabatabaei Raha , Lopez Cristina
Published: December 2013

The classical models of single neuron like Hodgkin-Huxley point neuron or leaky integrate and fire neuron assume the influence of postsynaptic potentials to last till the neuron fires. Vidybida (2008) in a refreshing departure has proposed models for binding neurons in which the trace of an input is remembered only for a finite fixed period of time after which it is forgotten. The binding neurons conform to the behaviour of real neurons and are applicable in constructing fast recurrent networks for computer modeling. This paper develops explicitly several useful results for a binding neuron like the firing time distribution and other statistical characteristics. We also discuss the applicability of the developed results in constructing a modified hourglass network model in which there are interconnected neurons with excitatory as well as inhibitory inputs. Limited simulation results of the hourglass network are presented.
Interrater and Intrarater Reliability of the Tuck Jump Assessment by Health Professionals of Varied Educational Backgrounds
Authors: Dudley Lisa A. , Smith Craig A. , Olson Brandon K. , Chimera Nicole J. , Schmitz Brian , Warren Meghan
Published: December 2013

Objective. The Tuck Jump Assessment (TJA), a clinical plyometric assessment, identifies 10 jumping and landing technique flaws. The study objective was to investigate TJA interrater and intrarater reliability with raters of different educational and clinical backgrounds.Methods. 40 participants were video recorded performing the TJA using published protocol and instructions. Five raters of varied educational and clinical backgrounds scored the TJA. Each score of the 10 technique flaws was summed for the total TJA score. Approximately one month later, 3 raters scored the videos again. Intraclass correlation coefficients determined interrater (5 and 3 raters for first and second session, resp.) and intrarater (3 raters) reliability.Results. Interrater reliability with 5 raters was poor (ICC = 0.47; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.33–0.62). Interrater reliability between 3 raters who completed 2 scoring sessions improved from 0.52 (95% CI 0.35–0.68) for session one to 0.69 (95% CI 0.55–0.81) for session two. Intrarater reliability was poor to moderate, ranging from 0.44 (95% CI 0.22–0.68) to 0.72 (95% CI 0.55–0.84).Conclusion. Published protocol and training of raters were insufficient to allow consistent TJA scoring. There may be a learned effect with the TJA since interrater reliability improved with repetition. TJA instructions and training should be modified and enhanced before clinical implementation.
Moving toward Personalized Medicine in the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program: A Pilot Study on the Evaluation of Treatment Responses in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Hsin-Ya , Li Jih-Heng , Sheu Yuh-Ling , Tang Hsin-Pei , Chang Wei-Chiao , Tang Tze-Chun , Yeh Yi-Chun , Wang Shing-Yaw , Liu Ray-H.
Published: December 2013

This pilot study simultaneously evaluated the effects of various factors, including genetic variations ofCYP2B6,CYP2C19, andABCB1, demographic characteristics, disease states, methadone-drug interactions (MDIs), and poly-substance use, on the treatment responses among non-HIV patients in the methadone maintenance treatment program (MMTP) in Taiwan. A total of 178 patients were recruited from two major hospitals that provided MMTP services in southern Taiwan, and information regarding concomitant medications and diseases was acquired from the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. The results demonstrated that the methadone maintenance dose,CYP2B6785G allele, andABCB12677T allele have positive effects on the methadone plasma concentration. In contrast, patients with HCV coinfection, alcohol problems, and psychiatric diseases may have a negative response to treatment. Thus, a comprehensive evaluation of treatment responses in the MMTP should include not only genetic polymorphisms in methadone metabolism and transporter proteins, but also concomitant diseases, MDIs, and poly-substance use. The results also suggest that personalized medicine may be indispensable for a better outcome of the MMTP.
Application of Fuzzy DEMATEL in Risks Evaluation of Knowledge-Based Networks
Authors: Abbasi M. , Hosnavi R. , Tabrizi B.
Published: December 2013

Developing new products has received much attention within the last decades. This issue can be highlighted for strategic innovations, in particular. Recently, knowledge-based networks have been introduced in order to facilitate the affair of transforming knowledge into commercial products which can be regarded as a set of research centers, universities, knowledge intermediaries, customers, and so forth. However, there is a wide range of risk factors that are liable to affect the chain performance. Hence, this paper aims to consider the most influencing criteria that can play a more significant role in achievements of such networks. To do so, DEMATEL has been applied to take the relationships between the risk factors into account. Moreover, fuzzy set theory has been utilized in order to deal with the linguistic variables. Finally, the most important factors are identified and their relations are determined.
Circulating Biomarkers of Tryptophan and the Kynurenine Pathway and Lung Cancer Risk
Authors: Chuang Shu-Chun , Fanidi Anouar , Ueland Per Magne , Relton Caroline , Midttun Øivind , Vollset Stein Emil , Gunter Marc J. , Seckl Michael J. , Travis Ruth C. , Wareham Nicholas , Trichopoulou Antonia , Lagiou Pagona , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Peeters Petra H.M. , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Boeing Heiner , Wientzek Angelika , Kuehn Tilman , Kaaks Rudolf , Tumino Rosario , Agnoli Claudia , Palli Domenico , Naccarati Alessio , Aicua Eva Ardanaz , Sánchez María-José , Quirós José Ramón , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Agudo Antonio , Johansson Mikael , Grankvist Kjell , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Fagherazzi Guy , Weiderpass Elisabete , Riboli Elio , Brennan Paul J. , Vineis Paolo , Johansson Mattias
Published: December 2013

Background: Imbalances in tryptophan metabolism have been linked to cancer-related immune escape and implicated in several cancers, including lung cancer.

Methods: We conducted a nested case–control study within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) that included 893 incident lung cancer cases and 1,748 matched controls. Circulating levels of tryptophan and six of its metabolites were measured and evaluated in relation to lung cancer risk.

Results: Tryptophan (Ptrend = 2 × 10−5) and the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio (KTR; Ptrend = 4 × 10−5) were associated with lung cancer risk overall after adjusting for established risk factors. The ORs comparing the fifth and first quintiles (OR5th vs. 1st) were 0.52 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.37–0.74] for tryptophan and 1.74 (95% CI, 1.24–2.45) for KTR. After adjusting for plasma methionine (available from previous work, which was strongly correlated with tryptophan), the associations of tryptophan (adjusted Ptrend = 0.13) and KTR (Ptrend = 0.009) were substantially attenuated. KTR was positively associated with squamous cell carcinoma, the OR5th vs. 1st being 2.83 (95% CI, 1.62–4.94, Ptrend = 3 × 10−5) that was only marginally affected by adjusting for methionine.

Conclusions: This study indicates that biomarkers of tryptophan metabolism are associated with subsequent lung cancer risk. Although this result would seem consistent with the immune system having a role in lung cancer development, the overall associations were dependent on methionine, and further studies are warranted to further elucidate the importance of these metabolites in lung cancer etiology.

Impact: This is the first prospective study investigating the tryptophan pathway in relation to lung cancer risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(3); 461–8. ©2013 AACR.
Molecular Profiling of the Residual Disease of Triple-Negative Breast Cancers after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Identifies Actionable Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Balko Justin M. , Giltnane Jennifer M. , Wang Kai , Schwarz Luis J. , Young Christian D. , Cook Rebecca S. , Owens Phillip , Sanders Melinda E. , Kuba Maria G. , Sánchez Violeta , Kurupi Richard , Moore Preston D. , Pinto Joseph A. , Doimi Franco D. , Gómez Henry , Horiuchi Dai , Goga Andrei , Lehmann Brian D. , Bauer Joshua A. , Pietenpol Jennifer A. , Ross Jeffrey S. , Palmer Gary A. , Yelensky Roman , Cronin Maureen , Miller Vincent A. , Stephens Phillip J. , Arteaga Carlos L.
Published: December 2013

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) induces a pathologic complete response (pCR) in approximately 30% of patients with triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC). In patients lacking a pCR, NAC selects a subpopulation of chemotherapy-resistant tumor cells. To understand the molecular underpinnings driving treatment-resistant TNBCs, we performed comprehensive molecular analyses on the residual disease of 74 clinically defined TNBCs after NAC, including next-generation sequencing (NGS) on 20 matched pretreatment biopsies. Combined NGS and digital RNA expression analysis identified diverse molecular lesions and pathway activation in drug-resistant tumor cells. Ninety percent of the tumors contained a genetic alteration potentially treatable with a currently available targeted therapy. Thus, profiling residual TNBCs after NAC identifies targetable molecular lesions in the chemotherapy-resistant component of the tumor, which may mirror micrometastases destined to recur clinically. These data can guide biomarker-driven adjuvant studies targeting these micrometastases to improve the outcome of patients with TNBC who do not respond completely to NAC.

Significance: This study demonstrates the spectrum of genomic alterations present in residual TNBC after NAC. Because TNBCs that do not achieve a CR after NAC are likely to recur as metastatic disease at variable times after surgery, these alterations may guide the selection of targeted therapies immediately after mastectomy before these metastases become evident. Cancer Discov; 4(2); 232–45. ©2013 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 131
Evolution of DNA Methylation Is Linked to Genetic Aberrations in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Oakes Christopher C. , Claus Rainer , Gu Lei , Assenov Yassen , Hüllein Jennifer , Zucknick Manuela , Bieg Matthias , Brocks David , Bogatyrova Olga , Schmidt Christopher R. , Rassenti Laura , Kipps Thomas J. , Mertens Daniel , Lichter Peter , Döhner Hartmut , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Byrd John C. , Zenz Thorsten , Plass Christoph
Published: December 2013

Although clonal selection by genetic driver aberrations in cancer is well documented, the ability of epigenetic alterations to promote tumor evolution is undefined. We used 450k arrays and next-generation sequencing to evaluate intratumor heterogeneity and evolution of DNA methylation and genetic aberrations in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL cases exhibit vast interpatient differences in intratumor methylation heterogeneity, with genetically clonal cases maintaining low methylation heterogeneity and up to 10% of total CpGs in a monoallelically methylated state. Increasing methylation heterogeneity correlates with advanced genetic subclonal complexity. Selection of novel DNA methylation patterns is observed only in cases that undergo genetic evolution, and independent genetic evolution is uncommon and is restricted to low-risk alterations. These results reveal that although evolution of DNA methylation occurs in high-risk, clinically progressive cases, positive selection of novel methylation patterns entails coevolution of genetic alteration(s) in CLL.

Significance: Epigenetic alterations are pervasive in cancer and continually develop during disease progression; however, the mechanisms that promote changes in the tumor epigenome at large are currently undefined. The current work provides insight into the coevolution of genetic and epigenetic aberrations and highlights the influential role of genetic aberrations in the selection of novel methylation patterns. Cancer Discov; 4(3); 348–61. ©2013 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 259
Large Fetal Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation Detected at Midtrimester Scan with Subsequent High Cardiac Output Syndrome and Favorable Postnatal Outcome
Authors: Hellmund A. , Berg C. , Bryan C. , Schneider M. , Hraška V. , Gembruch U.
Published: December 2013

Prenatal diagnosis of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVM), caused by abnormal communications between pulmonary arteries and pulmonary veins, is rarely described. We report a case of a PAVM between the right pulmonary artery and the left atrium, referred to our prenatal unit at 22 + 1 weeks of gestation, with severe cardiomegaly, dilation of the right pulmonary artery and a right pulmonary vein and retrograde flow in the ductus arteriosus. The fistula was located in the right lung and showed a broad, disturbed flow at color Doppler with high velocity and low pulsatility. The fetus was monitored weekly and cardiac function remained sufficient until 36 + 1 weeks of gestation, when increasing cardiomegaly prompted delivery by cesarean section. The newborn was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit, intubated and the fistula was surgically removed. The boy could be discharged at the 43rd day of life and showed an uneventful course until the last follow-up at the age of 4 years, with no residual mental or physical handicaps and a normal cardiac function. Despite adverse outcomes described in previously reported cases of large PAVM complicated by severe cardiomegaly at midtrimester scan, our case had a good outcome.
Tuebingen CD-25 Is a Sensitive Tool to Investigate Health-Related Quality of Life in Cushing's Disease Patients in the Course of the Disease
Authors: Milian Monika , Honegger Juergen , Teufel Philipp , Wolf Alena , Psaras Tsambika
Published: December 2013

Background: The primary object was to investigate whether the Tuebingen CD-25 captures changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) sensitively in Cushing's disease (CD) and to identify factors that favour postoperative HRQoL. Methods: 17 CD patients were scheduled for transsphenoidal tumour removal and filled out the inventory before and after surgery. The mean time elapsed after surgery was 14.4 ± 11.3 months. All patients were in remission at the second timepoint of investigation. Results: HRQoL as assessed with the Tuebingen CD-25 improved significantly after successful surgical tumour removal. A large effect size (Cohen's d = 0.84) in the total score indicates good sensitivity to change. 13 patients (76.5%) showed impaired HRQoL preoperatively compared with a general population sample. Postoperatively, 35.3% of the patients still suffered from an impaired HRQoL. Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that less comorbidities (≤2) and greater morning cortisol decrease were promotive factors for better postoperative HRQoL (p < 0.05). The postoperative improvement in HRQoL could be best predicted by the presence of preoperative HRQoL impairment and age of the patients, i.e. patients who were younger were more likely to improve. Moreover, patients without postoperative pituitary deficiencies improved significantly more in the cognition scale. A tendency towards more improvement in overall HRQoL was observed in non-hypocortisolaemic patients. Conclusions: The Tuebingen CD-25 has proved to be a capable and sensitive instrument to investigate HRQoL in the course of disease. The number of postoperative comorbidities had the greatest impact on postoperative well-being.
Brain Natriuretic Peptides in Atherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis and Effects of Renal Angioplasty
Authors: Nowakowska-Fortuna Elzbieta , Saeed Aso , Guron Gregor , Fu Michael , Hammarsten Ola , Jensen Gert , Herlitz Hans
Published: December 2013

Background: We hypothesized that plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-proBNP) would be elevated, and adiponectin concentrations reduced, in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) and that BNPs might be used to identify patients who would benefit from percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA). Methods: Data were collected before renal angiography in 91 patients with hypertension and suspected ARAS (significant ARAS; n=47, and non-RAS; n=44) and in 20 healthy controls (C). In ARAS patients analyses were repeated four weeks after PTRA. Results: Ambulatory systolic blood pressure (ASBP) was significantly elevated in the ARAS group vs. both C and non-RAS groups. Baseline plasma BNP and NT-proBNP levels were significantly elevated, and adiponectin concentrations reduced, in the ARAS group vs. C but not vs. the non-RAS group. One month after PTRA, ASBP was reduced vs. baseline (149±16 to 139±15 mm p<0.01). Brain natriuretic peptides were not significantly affected by PTRA. Conclusions: Patients with ARAS showed elevated of BNP and NT-proBNP concentrations, and reduced levels of adiponectin, compared to healthy controls but not vs. hypertensive individuals without RAS. Our data do no support the use of BNP analyses in the identification of ARAS patients who will have a beneficial blood pressure response to PTRA.
New Insights on the Role of Vitamin D in the Progression of Renal Damage
Authors: Lucisano Silvia , Buemi Michele , Passantino Antonio , Aloisi Carmela , Cernaro Valeria , Santoro Domenico
Published: December 2013

Several studies indicate a relationship between hypovitaminosis D, survival, vascular calcification and inflammation. In addition to its central role in the regulation of bone mineral metabolism, vitamin D also contributes to other systems, including the immune, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Vitamin D analogs reduces proteinuria, in particular through suppression of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and exerts anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. In particular vitamin D deficiency contribute to an inappropriately activated RAAS, as a mechanism for progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and/or cardiovascular disease. Human and sperimental models of CKD showed that vitamin D may interact with B and T lymphocytes and influence the phenotype and function of the antigen presenting cells and dendritic cells, promoting properties that favor the induction of tolerogenic T regulators rather than T effectory. Interstitial fibrosis may be prevented through vitamin D supplementation. Renal myofibroblast, an activated fibroblast with expression of a molecular hallmark α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), is generally considered the principal matrix-producing effector cells that are responsible for the excess production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the fibrotic tissues. It turns out that calcitriol effectively blocks myofibroblast activation from interstitial fibroblasts, as evidenced by suppression of TGF-β1-mediated α-SMA expression.
Autologous Collagen-Induced Chondrogenesis Using Fibrin and Atelocollagen Mixture
Authors: Jeong In Ho , Shetty Asode Ananthram , Kim Seok Jung , Jang Jae Deog , Kim Young Ju , Chung Yang Guk , Choi Nam Yong , Liu Chung Hsuan
Published: December 2013

For articular cartilage defect treatment, many treatment modalities have been developed. We evaluate the cartilage repair potential of an atelocollagen and fibrin mixture transplanted to cartilage defects. A circular, articular cartilage defect 4 mm in diameter was made in the trochlear region in each of 20 New Zealand white rabbits. The 10 rabbits in the control group were kept without treatment and the 10 rabbits in the experimental group underwent injection of atelocollagen mixed with fibrin. At week 12 following surgery the cartilage was observed and histologically compared in both groups. The surface of the newly generated cartilage was very smooth and even, and we also noted that the entire area was completely regenerated in the experimental group. The control group showed incomplete and irregular cartilage formation in the defect. Regarding the histological scoring, comparison of the two groups differed significantly (p < 0.001). Injection of a mixture of atelocollagen and fibrin used to treat articular cartilage defects of the knee appears to be an effective method for cartilage regeneration.
Influence of Hypoxia in the Intervertebral Disc on the Biological Behaviors of Rat Adipose- and Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Li Hao , Tao Yiqing , Liang Chengzhen , Han Bin , Li Fangcai , Chen Gang , Chen Qixin
Published: December 2013

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) and nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) are two cell candidates for cell-based therapies for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. However, little work has been done to determine the influence of hypoxia in the IVD on the biological behaviors of ADMSCs and NPMSCs. This study aimed to investigate the viability, proliferation and differentiation of rat ADMSCs and NPMSCs in the hypoxic environment of IVD in vitro. ADMSCs and NPMSCs isolated from 6 SD rats were cultured under normoxia (20% O2) and hypoxia (2% O2) mimicking the standard condition and hypoxic environment of the IVD for 14 days. Cell viability was determined by the annexin-V-FITC/propidium iodide double-staining assay and cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay. The expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, glucose transporter (GLUT)-1, GLUT-3 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A at the mRNA level was examined by RT-PCR. In cells cultured in three-dimensional micromass and differentiation medium, aggrecan, collagen-II and Sox-9 expression at mRNA and protein levels were examined by RT-PCR and Western blot. Hypoxia inhibited the viability and proliferation of both ADMSCs and NPMSCs, but promoted the chondrocytic differentiation of ADMSCs and NPMSCs. Compared to ADMSCs, NPMSCs showed greater viability, proliferation and chondrocytic differentiation under hypoxia. In conclusion, hypoxia in the IVD had a significant impact on the viability, proliferation and chondrocytic differentiation of ADMSCs and NPMSCs. NPMSCs exhibited more potent biological activity than ADMSCs in the hypoxic environment of the IVD and may represent another candidate for cell-based therapy for IVD regeneration.
Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Cancer Motility and Cytokine Secretion in vitro
Authors: Scherzed A. , Hackenberg S. , Radeloff A. , Froelich K. , Rak K. , Hagen R. , Kleinsasser N.
Published: December 2013

Interactions of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) with tumors are controversially discussed since there is evidence for both tumor progression as well as tumor inhibition by hMSC. The objective of the present study is to investigate whether hMSC support cell motility and cytokine secretion in a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell line (HLaC 78). A spheroid model was generated in which the ultrastructure of spheroids was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The migration capability was monitored in a monolayer as well as in a spheroid model. The variation in migration and secretion of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as the expression of the multidrug resistance gene (MDR-1) was investigated. Finally, the alteration in the cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. SEM showed a tight cell-cell contact with extensive secretion of extracellular matrix. The migration and invasion capability of HLaC 78 was enhanced by hMSC. Cancer cell motility was also increased by hMSC as well as secretion of the cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF. hMSC did not induce the expression of MDR-1 in HLaC 78, and there was no alteration in the cell cycle of HLaC 78 after cocultivation with hMSC. Our results confirm the important role of hMSC in cancer biology since both an enhancement of cell motility as well as cytokine secretion could be shown. However, based on these findings and those in the current literature, caution must be applied when using hMSC as a carrier for tumor therapy in cancer treatment.
Caries Prevalence, Oral Hygiene, and Oral Health Habits of Kuwaiti Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Nazar Huda , Al-Mutawa Sabiha , Ariga Jitendra , Soparkar Pramod , Mascarenhas Ana Karina
Published: December 2013

Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the oral health, oral hygiene, and oral health habits of Kuwaiti infants and toddlers. Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional study of a convenience sample included 336 infants and toddlers (156 females and 180 males). The teeth of the infants and toddlers were examined using a mirror and a light source. Oral hygiene was recorded, and then all teeth were cleaned with gauze and examined for caries. Parents were interviewed regarding their children's feeding habits, brushing or tooth cleaning, and night feeding. The evaluation criteria for caries were sound teeth, noncavitated lesions, cavitated lesions, filled teeth, and missing teeth. Results: The mean age was 11.1 ± 2.4 months (range 2-23). Of the 336 subjects, 247 (73%) had good oral hygiene, 64 (19%) had parents who brushed or cleaned their infants' and toddlers' teeth; 288 (86%) were bottle-fed, and 290 (86%) were also night fed. The mean number of teeth upon examination was 4.6 ± 2.7 (range 2-8). Three percent of the infants and toddlers had caries. Cavitated lesions were present in 6 patients (1.8%), while 4 (1.2%) had noncavitated lesions. The mean d1d2t (caries teeth: noncavitated lesions and cavitated lesions) was 0.03 ± 0.3, and the mean d1d2s (carious surfaces) was 0.07 ± 0.5. Conclusion: The caries prevalence and severity was low in infants and toddlers. However, poor oral health practices and habits as well as unhealthy feeding practices that could affect the future caries prevalence were noted.
Treatment of Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: The Effect of Topical Rapamycin and Concomitant Laser Therapy
Authors: Park Jin , Yun Seok-Kweon , Cho Yong-Sun , Song Ki-Hun , Kim Han-Uk
Published: December 2013

Facial angiofibromas are the most troublesome cutaneous manifestations of the tuberous sclerosis complex and are difficult to treat. Lasers are most commonly used to treat these skin lesions, but results are disappointing with frequent recurrences. Recently, treatment of facial angiofibromas with topical rapamycin has been reported to yield promising results. We observed the need of laser ablation in addition to topical rapamycin to get best results for the treatment of angiofibromas in 4 cases. The result showed that topical rapamycin ointment was enough when the papules were yet small in size, i.e. less than a few millimeters, but additional laser ablation was needed for large papules approximately larger than 4 mm. Considering the natural course of facial angiofibromas, we believe that topical rapamycin can be best used in childhood patients. In adults, topical rapamycin was useful for treating the still present small papules and for preventing recurrences after laser treatment.
Axillary Arch May Affect Axillary Lymphadenectomy
Authors: Karanlik Hasan , Fathalizadeh Alisan , Ilhan Burak , Serin Kursat , Kurul Sidika
Published: December 2013

Background: The aim of this study was to identify the axillopectoral muscle anomaly commonly known as Langer's axillary arch, and to understand its importance in surgical procedures of the axilla. Patients and Methods: Between 2009 and 2011, 758 patients underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy, axillary dissection, or both. Patients with Langer's axillary arch were identified and assessed retrospectively. The decision to cut or preserve the axillary arch was made based on clinical judgment, and patients were followed-up accordingly to monitor for adverse outcomes. Results: Of the 758 patients who underwent axillary procedures, 9 (1.2%) were found to have a Langer's axillary arch. In 2 patients the arch was cut, and in 7 patients it was preserved. No adverse outcomes were identified in any of the patients upon follow-up. Conclusion: Langer's axillary arch is a unique anatomic anomaly of the axillary region that may be problematic due to the potential risks of lymphedema and vascular or nerve compression. It is important for surgeons and radiologists alike to be aware of this anatomic variation in order to properly identify it and respond appropriately based on clinical judgment, and to complete close follow-up of the patient due to the potentially increased risk of adverse outcomes.
Automatic Volumetry of the Cerebrospinal Fluid Space in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Ishii Kazunari , Soma Tsutomu , Shimada Kenichi , Oda Haruhiko , Terashima Akira , Kawasaki Ryota
Published: December 2013

Objectives: To measure the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) space volume in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH), we developed a software that allows us to automatically measure the regional CSF space and compared the volumes of the ventricle systems (VS), Sylvian fissures (SF) and sulci at high convexity and midline (SHM) among INPH patients, Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and healthy volunteers (HVs). Methods: Fifteen INPH patients, 15 AD patients and 15 HVs were retrospectively selected for this study. 3D-T1 MR images were obtained. We improved upon an automatic gray matter volume system to measure CSF spaces, adopting new regions for the template of INPH-characteristic CSF spaces and measured them. The VS, SF and SHM volumes were calculated relative to the intracranial volume. Results: The relative SHM volume of the INPH group (0.0237 ± 0.0064) was the smallest among the 3 groups (AD: 0.0477 ± 0.0109, HV: 0.0542 ± 0.0045). The VS (0.0499 ± 0.0135) and SF (0.0187 ± 0.0037) volumes of the INPH group were significantly larger than those of the AD (VS: 0.0311 ± 0.0075, SF: 0.0146 ± 0.0026) and HV groups (VS: 0.0167 ± 0.0065, SF: 0.0111 ± 0.017). Conclusion: Automatic volume measurement can be used to delineate the characteristic changes in CSF space in patients with INPH and is useful in the diagnosis of INPH.
Rare Cadaveric Finding of a Grossly Enlarged Mucocele Appendix
Authors: Farias Anna , Anderson Sarah J. , Webber Christine A.
Published: December 2013

Appendicular mucoceles are rare clinical findings characterized by dilation and distention of the appendicular lumen by the accumulation of mucus. Their discovery is often incidental from abdominal imaging or more commonly as a secondary surgical finding. In this case study we report the first known recorded case of a cadaveric mucocele appendix discovered during routine dissection of the gastrointestinal system. The recorded cause of death for the 86-year-old female patient was congestive heart failure. We compared the gross anatomy and histology of this enormous appendix with another cadaveric appendix. A pathology report identified the appendicular mucocele as a mucinous cystadenoma.
Refining the Oil Curse
Authors: Liou Yu-Ming , Musgrave Paul
Published: December 2013

Is there a resource curse? Some scholars argue that resource income is associated with slower transitions to democracy; others contend that the negative effects of resources are conditional on factors such as institutional quality. To test these competing hypotheses, this article exploits the price spike caused by the 1973 oil embargo, which transformed several countries with latent oil industries into resource-reliant states. Our quasi-experimental research design allows for better identification of causation than the associational approaches common in the literature. We use the method of synthetic controls to compare the political development of states that received resource-derived revenue with how these states would have behaved in a counterfactual world without such revenue. We find that there is little evidence that a resource curse systematically prevents democratization or that institutional quality alone determines outcomes. Nevertheless, resource income meaningfully affects outcomes and even contributes to democratization in some instances.
Muslim Prayer and Public Spheres: An Interpretation of the Qurɔānic Verse 29:45
Authors: Sirry Mun’im , Omar A. Rashied
Published: December 2013

This essay examines the various meanings and efficacies attributed to the Muslim prayer ( ṣalāt) by its practitioners as well as by observers. The key questions that form the main concern of this article are: How is the ritual of prayer brought to life by its practitioners? What constitutes an efficacious prayer? What meanings do observers draw from the practice of prayer among Muslims in diverse localities as well as from their interpretive discourses? The essay brings together ethnographic studies on Muslim practices of prayer and exegetical discourses on what prayer should contribute to the ethical conduct of Muslims in public spheres.
Abundance of MMPs and Cysteine Cathepsins in Caries-affected Dentin
Authors: Vidal C.M.P. , Tjäderhane L. , Scaffa P.M. , Tersariol I.L. , Pashley D. , Nader H.B. , Nascimento F.D. , Carrilho M.R.
Published: December 2013

Degradation of dentin matrix components within caries dentin has been correlated with the activity of host-derived proteases, such as matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and cysteine cathepsins (CTs). Since this relationship has not been fully established, we hypothesized that the abundance of MMPs and CTs in caries-affected dentin must be higher than in intact dentin. To test this premise, we obtained 5 slices (200 µm) from 5 intact teeth and from 5 caries-affected teeth (1 slice/tooth) and individually incubated them with primary antibodies for CT-B, CT-K, MMP-2, or MMP-9. Negative controls were incubated with pre-immune serum. Specimens were washed and re-incubated with the respective fluorescent secondary antibody. Collagen identification, attained by the autofluorescence capture technique, and protease localization were evaluated by multi-photon confocal microscopy. The images were analyzed with ZEN software, which also quantitatively measured the percentages of collagen and protease distribution in dentin compartments. The abundance of the test enzymes was markedly higher in caries-affected than in intact dentin. CT-B exhibited the highest percentage of co-localization with collagen, followed by MMP-9, MMP-2, and CT-K. The high expression of CTs and MMPs in caries-affected teeth indicates that those host-derived enzymes are intensely involved with caries progression.
Maternal Oral Bacterial Levels Predict Early Childhood Caries Development
Authors: Chaffee B.W. , Gansky S.A. , Weintraub J.A. , Featherstone J.D.B. , Ramos-Gomez F.J.
Published: December 2013

Objective: To calculate the association of maternal salivary bacterial challenge (mutans streptococci [MS] and lactobacilli [LB]) from pregnancy through 24 months’ postpartum with child caries incidence (≥1 cavitated or restored teeth) at 36 months. Materials & Methods: Dental, salivary bacterial, sociodemographic, and behavioral measures were collected at three- to six-month intervals from a birth cohort of low-income Hispanic mother-child dyads ( N = 243). We calculated the relative child caries incidence, adjusted for confounding, following higher maternal challenge of MS (>4500 colony-forming units per milliliter of saliva [CFU/mL]) and LB (>50 CFU/mL) based on multivariable models. Results: Salivary MS and LB levels were greater among mothers of caries-affected children versus caries-free children. Mothers with higher salivary MS challenge were more likely to have MS-positive children (>0 CFU/mL), but maternal LB challenge was not a statistically significant predictor of child LB-positive status. Adjusting for sociodemographics, feeding and care practices, and maternal dental status, higher maternal salivary challenge of both MS and LB over the study period predicted nearly double the child caries incidence versus lower MS and LB (cumulative incidence ratio: 1.9; 95% confidence interval: 1.1, 3.8). Conclusion: Maternal salivary bacterial challenge not only is associated with oral infection among children but also predicts increased early childhood caries occurrence.
The St. Louis Rent Strike of 1969
Authors: Karp Michael
Published: December 2013

In 1969, public housing tenants launched a rent strike that shaped federal legislation and helped make housing a central concern of the Black Freedom Struggle. In addition to providing a detailed narrative of the rent strike, this article follows the lives of the rent strike’s three primary leaders—Ivory Perry, the Rev. Buck Jones, and Jean King. Following the rent strike, Ivory Perry worked to curb lead poisoning while Buck Jones sought to reform welfare in Missouri. Later, Jones labored to improve living conditions in East St. Louis, Illinois. Jean King worked with private developers following the rent strike, helping remake the architecture and management of low-income housing. By focusing on how these individuals aided the rent strike, and by following their subsequent life careers, this article demonstrates that the St. Louis rent strike influenced developments central to American low-income housing and black activism in the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Fathers’ Parenting Behaviors and Malaysian Adolescents’ Anxiety
Authors: Jafari Mahboubeh , Baharudin Rozumah , Archer Marc
Published: December 2013

The present study examined the moderating role of family income on the relationships between perceived paternal parenting behavior and adolescents’ anxiety among economically and ethnically diverse sample of adolescents. A total of 1,200 participants aged between 12 and 17 years were selected for the study. A self-administered questionnaire, including Quality of Parenting Behavior Scale and Beck Anxiety Inventory–Malay were used to collect the data. The results obtained indicate that there was a significant relationship between paternal hostility (β = .34, p < .001) and paternal monitoring (β = −.29, p < .01) with adolescents’ anxiety. A multigroup analysis using structural equation modeling also demonstrated that family income level moderated the relationship between parenting and adolescent outcomes. The findings revealed that paternal consistent discipline and paternal monitoring behavior reduced adolescent anxiety in high-income families. Finding advanced understanding on how the associations between fathers’ parenting behaviors and adolescent anxiety could be quite varied when family’s financial circumstances were taken into account.
The effect of perceived risks and switching barriers on the intention to use smartphones among non-adopters in Korea
Authors: Kim Moon-Koo , Chang Younghoon , Wong Siew Fan , Park Myeong-Cheol
Published: December 2013

Timely diffusion of IT products is critical to the success of technology companies. However, many IT products fail to attain the critical mass required for profitability. Although several studies have identified perceived usefulness as the primary factor in IT adoption, statistics indicate that some Korean consumers avoid IT products despite understanding their utility. This study empirically examines the effects of perceived risks and switching barriers on Korean non-adopters’ intention to use smartphones. The results indicate that the intention to use smartphones is generally influenced by perceived usefulness, financial risk, and cost effectiveness. Those who choose to avoid smartphones despite perceiving their usefulness have additional concerns regarding the perceived non-attractiveness of other service providers. This study samples non-adopters and analytically compares individuals with high levels of smartphone utility perception and varying levels of smartphone usage intention, thereby providing insights to organizations for customizing products and marketing approaches to tap into this market niche.