bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Topology‐Inferred Graph‐Based Heuristic Algorithm for Map Simplification
Authors: Guo QiuLei , Karimi Hassan A. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractIn this article we present a heuristic map simplification algorithm based on a novel topology‐inferred graph model. Compared with the existing algorithms, which only focus either on geometry simplification or on topological consistency, our algorithm simplifies the map composed of series of polylines and constraint points while maintaining the topological relationships in the map, maximizing the number of removal points, and minimizing error distance efficiently. Unlike some traditional geometry simplification algorithms, such as Douglas and Peucker's, which add points incrementally, we remove points sequentially based on a priority determined by heuristic functions. In the first stage, we build a graph to model the topology of points in the map from which we determine whether a point is removable or not. As map generalization is needed in different applications with different requirements, we present two heuristic functions to determine the priority of points removal for two different purposes: to save storage space and to reduce computation time. The time complexity of our algorithm is
which is efficient enough to be considered for real‐time applications. Experiments on real maps were conducted and the results indicate that our algorithm produces high quality results; one heuristic function results in higher removal points saving storage space and the other improves the time performance significantly.
Comparison of Kernel Density and Local Convex Hull Methods for Assessing Distribution Ranges of Large Mammalian Herbivores
Authors: Chirima George J , Owen‐Smith Norman 
Published: January 2016

AbstractWhen assessing distribution range shifts, precise information is required on distribution limits, densities in occupied regions, unoccupied gaps, and changes in these measures over time. The local convex hull method recently developed for home range delineation to provide these measures was compared with that of the widely applied parametric kernel density estimation and with the commonly used tile method. The assessment used location records from 14 years of aerial surveys on four mammalian herbivores selected because of their distinct distribution patterns. Impala showed an almost continuous distribution with few gaps, wildebeest a wide distribution with regional concentrations, waterbuck a linear distribution along rivers, and sable antelope a widespread but patchy distribution. The kernel method tended to extend ranges beyond observed records, obscuring gaps within distributions. With parametric kernel approaches, bandwidth obtained via Least Squares Cross Validation techniques was not optimal when the local abundance was widely disparate, as was the case for wildebeest. The LoCoH method most effectively revealed meaningful gaps. The LoCoH method is advantageous for precisely mapping the distributions of conspicuous species for which the absence of records indicates true gaps in occurrence.
Oxidative stress and rheologic properties of stored red blood cells before and after transfusion to surgical patients
Authors: Nagababu Enika , Scott Andrew V. , Johnson Daniel J. , Dwyer Ian M. , Lipsitz Joshua A. , Barodka Viachaslau M. , Berkowitz Dan E. , Frank Steven M. 
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUNDThe loss of structural and functional integrity of red blood cells (RBCs) during storage, collectively referred to as “storage lesion,” has been implicated in reduced oxygen delivery after transfusion. RBCs are highly susceptible to oxidative damage from generation of reactive oxygen species by autoxidation of hemoglobin. Therefore, we examined whether increased oxidative stress (OS) in stored RBCs is associated with impaired cell membrane deformability before or after transfusion.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSThirty‐four patients undergoing multilevel spine fusion surgery were enrolled. OS in RBCs was assessed by the presence of fluorescent heme degradation products and methemoglobin, which were measured with fluorimetric and spectrophotometric methods, respectively. Deformability and aggregation were determined by ektacytometry in stored RBCs, autologous salvaged RBCs, and posttransfusion blood samples.RESULTSOS in stored RBCs was significantly increased with longer storage (R = 0.54, p = 0.032) and significantly higher than that in fresh RBCs (9.1 ± 1.3 fluorescent arbitrary units vs. 7.7 ± 0.9 fluorescent arbitrary units, p < 0.001). Deformability decreased (R = −0.60, p = 0.009) with increasing storage duration. OS was elevated (p < 0.05) and deformability was decreased (p < 0.05) in postoperative blood from patients who had undergone moderate (≥4 RBC units) but not minimal or no transfusion. Neither the decrease in deformability of RBCs nor the aggregation changes were correlated with OS.CONCLUSIONSAlthough stored RBCs show signs of increased OS and loss of cell membrane deformability, these changes were not directly correlated and were only evident after moderate but not lower dose transfusion in postoperative surgical patients. These findings suggest that factors other than OS may contribute to impaired rheology with stored RBCs in the clinical setting.
Surgical Correction of Traumatic Lateral Patellar Luxation
Authors: Marchionatti Emma , Desrochers André , Sheen Ashley D. , Lardé Hélène , Babkine Marie 
Published: January 2016

ObjectiveTo report successful surgical repair of a grade IV lateral patellar luxation in a 437‐kg heifer.Study DesignCase report.AnimalSeventeen‐month‐old Holstein heifer (437 kg).MethodsDiagnosis of traumatic lateral patellar luxation was made based on physical examination, and confirmed on radiographs. Arthroscopic examination of the stifle assessed joint changes. Lateral patellar luxation was surgically repaired using lateral release of the patella and medial imbrication of the joint capsule.ResultsThe heifer presented nonweight‐bearing lameness of the left hind limb (5/5 lameness score). Unilateral grade IV lateral patellar luxation was diagnosed based on physical examination and radiography. Arthroscopic examination of the stifle showed synovitis and cartilage eburnation of the medial articular surface of the patella and of the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur. Lateral release of the patella and medial imbrication of the joint capsule was performed. The heifer remained lame (4.5/5 lameness score) and developed severe disuse muscle atrophy after surgery. By day 112, the heifer was walking easily and was completely weight bearing on the left hindlimb but did have a gait alteration (2/5 lameness score). On day 229, the heifer calved for the first time and lameness was no longer evident.ConclusionThis report documents successful surgical treatment of traumatic lateral patellar luxation in a large heifer but additional case evaluation is required to provide an accurate prognosis for this condition and treatment in large cattle.
Frequency of Dehiscence in Hand‐Sutured and Stapled Intestinal Anastomoses in Dogs
Authors: Duell Jason R. , Thieman Mankin Kelley M. , Rochat Mark C. , Regier Penny J. , Singh Ameet , Luther Jill K. , Mison Michael B. , Leeman Jessica J. , Budke Christine M. 
Published: January 2016

ObjectiveTo determine the frequency of dehiscence of hand‐sutured and stapled intestinal anastomoses in the dog and compare the surgery duration for the methods of anastomosis.Study DesignHistorical cohort study.Sample PopulationTwo hundred fourteen client‐owned dogs undergoing hand‐sutured (n = 142) or stapled (n = 72) intestinal anastomoses.MethodsMedical records from 5 referral institutions were searched for dogs undergoing intestinal resection and anastomosis between March 2006 and February 2014. Demographic data, presence of septic peritonitis before surgery, surgical technique (hand‐sutured or stapled), surgery duration, surgeon (resident versus faculty member), indication for surgical intervention, anatomic location of resection and anastomosis, and if dehiscence was noted postoperatively were retrieved. Estimated frequencies were summarized and presented as proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and continuous outcomes as mean (95% CI). Comparisons were made across methods of anastomosis.ResultsOverall, 29/205 dogs (0.14, 95% CI 0.10–00.19) had dehiscence, including 21/134 dogs (0.16, 0.11–0.23) undergoing hand‐sutured anastomosis and 8/71 dogs (0.11, 0.06–0.21) undergoing stapled anastomosis. There was no significant difference in the frequency of dehiscence across anastomosis methods (χ2,P = .389). The mean (95% CI) surgery duration of 140 minutes (132–147) for hand‐ sutured anastomoses and 108 minutes (99–119) for stapled anastomoses was significantly different (t‐test,P < .001).ConclusionNo significant difference in frequency of dehiscence was noted between hand‐ sutured and stapled anastomoses in dogs but surgery duration is significantly reduced by the use of staples for intestinal closure.
PROPERTIES AND PERFORMANCE OF WATER TREATMENT SLUDGE (WTS)-CLAY BRICKS
Authors: Md Nor Mohd Asri , Abdul Hamed Alia Syafiqah , Hj Ali Faisal , Keat Khim Ong 
Published: January 2016

Every year, large quantity of water treatment sludge (WTS) is produced from water treatment plant in Malaysia. Sanitary landfill disposal of sludge at authorized sites is the common practice in Malaysia. However, searching the suitable site for landfill is the major problem as the amount of sludge produced keeps on increasing. Reuse of the sludge could be an alternative to disposal. This study investigated the reusability of WTS as brick making material. The performance of clay-WTS bricks produced by mixing clay with different percentages of WTS with increments of 20% from 0% up to 100% was investigated. Each molded brick with optimum moisture content was pressed under constant pressure, oven-dried at 100˚C for 24 hours followed by heating at 600˚C for 2 hours and 1000˚C for 3 hours. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis were used to characterize clay, WTS and clay-WTS bricks. The performance of the bricks were evaluated with firing shrinkage, loss on ignition (LOI), water absorption, bulk density, and compressive strength tests. Increasing the sludge content results in a decrease of brick firing shrinkage, and increase of water absorption and compressive strength. The results revealed that the brick with 100% by weight of sludge could generate the highest compressive strength of 17.123N/mm2. It can be concluded that the bricks with 20 to 100% of water treatment sludge comply with the Malaysian Standard MS7.6:1972, which can fulfill the general requirement for usage of clay bricks in wall construction.
Deletion of Kvβ1.1 subunit leads to electrical and haemodynamic changes causing cardiac hypertrophy in female murine hearts
Authors: Tur Jared , Chapalamadugu Kalyan C. , Padawer Timothy , Badole Sachin L. , Kilfoil Peter J. , Bhatnagar Aruni , Tipparaju Srinivas M. 
Published: January 2016

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?
The goal of this study was to evaluate sex differences and the role of the potassium channel β1 (Kvβ1) subunit in the heart.

What is the main finding and its importance?
Genetic ablation of Kvβ1.1 in females led to cardiac hypertrophy characterized by increased heart size, prolonged monophasic action potentials, elevated blood pressure and increased myosin heavy chain α (MHCα) expression. In contrast, male mice showed only electrical changes. Kvβ1.1 binds the MHCα isoform at the protein level, and small interfering RNA targeted knockdown of Kvβ1.1 upregulated MHCα.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and debility in women in the USA, and cardiac arrhythmias are a major concern. Voltage‐gated potassium (Kv) channels along with the binding partners; Kvβ subunits are major regulators of the action potential (AP) shape and duration (APD). The regulation of Kv channels by the Kvβ1 subunit is unknown in female hearts. In the present study, we hypothesized that the Kvβ1 subunit is an important regulator of female cardiac physiology. To test this hypothesis, we ablated (knocked out; KO) the KCNAB1 isoform 1 (Kvβ1.1) subunit in mice and evaluated cardiac function and electrical activity by using ECG, monophasic action potential recordings and echocardiography. Our results showed that the female Kvβ1.1 KO mice developed cardiac hypertrophy, and the hearts were structurally different, with enlargement and increased area. The electrical derangements caused by Kvβ1.1 KO in female mice included long QTc and QRS intervals along with increased APD (APD20–90% repolarization). The male Kvβ1.1 KO mice did not develop cardiac hypertrophy, but they showed long QTc and prolonged APD. Molecular analysis showed that several genes that support cardiac hypertrophy were significantly altered in Kvβ1.1 KO female hearts. In particular, myosin heavy chain α expression was significantly elevated in Kvβ1.1 KO mouse heart. Using a small interfering RNA strategy, we identified that knockdown of Kvβ1 increases myosin heavy chain α expression in H9C2 cells. Collectively, changes in molecular and cell signalling pathways clearly point towards a distinct electrical and structural remodelling consistent with cardiac hypertrophy in the Kvβ1.1 KO female mice.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Virulent Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp.
brasiliense
Isolate Causing Soft Rot of Cucumber
Authors: Onkendi Edward M. , Ramesh Aadi Moolam , Kwenda Stanford , Naidoo Sanushka , Moleleki Lucy 
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT

Pectobacterium carotovorum
subsp.
brasiliense
causes soft rot and blackleg diseases on potatoes, ornamentals, and other crops of economic importance. Here, we report a draft genome sequence of a highly virulent
P. carotovorum
subsp.
brasiliense
strain, PcbHPI01, isolated from a cucumber in South Africa.
Intraclass correlation and design effect in BMI, physical activity and diet: a cross-sectional study of 56 countries
Authors: Masood Mohd , Reidpath Daniel D 
Published: January 2016

ObjectivesMeasuring the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and design effect (DE) may help to modify the public health interventions for body mass index (BMI), physical activity and diet according to geographic targeting of interventions in different countries. The purpose of this study was to quantify the level of clustering and DE in BMI, physical activity and diet in 56 low-income, middle-income and high-income countries.DesignCross-sectional study design.SettingMulticountry national survey data.MethodsThe World Health Survey (WHS), 2003, data were used to examine clustering in BMI, physical activity in metabolic equivalent of task (MET) and diet in fruits and vegetables intake (FVI) from low-income, middle-income and high-income countries. Multistage sampling in the WHS used geographical clusters as primary sampling units (PSU). These PSUs were used as a clustering or grouping variable in this analysis. Multilevel intercept only regression models were used to calculate the ICC and DE for each country.ResultsThe median ICC (0.039) and median DE (1.82) for BMI were low; however, FVI had a higher median ICC (0.189) and median DE (4.16). For MET, the median ICC was 0.141 and median DE was 4.59. In some countries, however, the ICC and DE for BMI were large. For instance, South Africa had the highest ICC (0.39) and DE (11.9) for BMI, whereas Uruguay had the highest ICC (0.434) for MET and Ethiopia had the highest ICC (0.471) for FVI.ConclusionsThis study shows that across a wide range of countries, there was low area level clustering for BMI, whereas MET and FVI showed high area level clustering. These results suggested that the country level clustering effect should be considered in developing preventive approaches for BMI, as well as improving physical activity and healthy diets for each country.
Complexity in the new NHS: longitudinal case studies of CCGs in England
Authors: Checkland Katherine , McDermott Imelda , Coleman Anna , Perkins Neil 
Published: January 2016

ObjectiveThe reform in the English National Health Services (NHS) under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 is unlike previous NHS reorganisations. The establishment of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) was intended to be ‘bottom up’ with no central blueprint. This paper sets out to offer evidence about how this process has played out in practice and examines the implications of the complexity and variation which emerged.DesignDetailed case studies in CCGs across England, using interviews, observation and documentary analysis. Using realist framework, we unpacked the complexity of CCG structures.Setting/participantsIn phase 1 of the study (January 2011 to September 2012), we conducted 96 interviews, 439 h of observation in a wide variety of meetings, 2 online surveys and 38 follow-up telephone interviews. In phase 2 (April 2013 to March 2015), we conducted 42 interviews with general practitioners (GPs) and managers and observation of 48 different types of meetings.ResultsOur study has highlighted the complexity inherent in CCGs, arising out of the relatively permissive environment in which they developed. Not only are they very different from one another in size, but also in structure, functions between different bodies and the roles played by GPs.ConclusionsThe complexity and lack of uniformity of CCGs is important as it makes it difficult for those who must engage with CCGs to know who to approach at what level. This is of increasing importance as CCGs are moving towards greater integration across health and social care. Our study also suggests that there is little consensus as to what being a ‘membership’ organisation means and how it should operate. The lack of uniformity in CCG structure and lack of clarity over the meaning of ‘membership’ raises questions over accountability, which becomes of greater importance as CCG is taking over responsibility for primary care co-commissioning.
Fuzzy-Based Techniques in Human-Like Processing of Social Network Data
Authors: Zadeh Lotfi A. , Abbasov Ali M. , Shahbazova Shahnaz N. 
Published: January 2016

Social networks have gained a lot attention. They are perceived as a vast source of information about their users. Variety of different methods and techniques has been proposed to analyze these networks in order to extract valuable information about the users – things they do and like/dislike. A lot of effort is put into improvement of analytical methods in order to grasp a more accurate and detailed image of users. Such information would have an impact on many aspects of everyday life of people – from politics, via professional life, to shopping and entertainment.The theory of fuzzy sets and systems, introduced in 1965, has the ability to handle imprecise and ambiguous information, and to cope with linguistic terms. The theory has evolved into such areas like possibility theory and computing with words. It is very suitable for processing data in a human-like way, and providing the results in a human-oriented manner.The paper presents a short survey of works that use fuzzy-based technologies for analysis of social networks. We pose an idea that fuzzy-based techniques allow for introduction of humancentric and human-like data analysis processes. We include here detailed descriptions of a few target areas of social network analysis that could benefit from applications of fuzzy sets and systems methods.
An unusual Proterozoic petroleum play in Western Africa: the Atar Group carbonates (Taoudeni Basin, Mauritania)
Authors: Martín-Monge Antonio , Baudino Roger , Gairifo-Ferreira Luis M. , Tocco Rafael , Badalì Marcello , Ochoa María , Haryono Sigit , Soriano Sofía , El Hafiz Nidal , Hernán-Gómez Julio , Chacón Beatriz , Brisson Ignacio , Grammatico Giovanni , Varadé Roberto , Abdallah Hussein 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The Taoudeni Basin is the largest sedimentary basin in Africa. This intracratonic basin, which forms the sedimentary cover of the West African Craton, records episodic sedimentation since the Proterozoic. It is a largely unexplored basin, with only eight exploration wells drilled to date, although its petroleum prospectivity was established in 1974 when gas and liquids were tested in the Abolag-1 well. This paper focuses on the identification and assessment of potential source rocks and reservoirs in the Taoudeni Basin in Mauritania and aims to establish a geochemical genetic link between the occurrence of petroleum and potential sources. Various disciplines and techniques were integrated to reach a better understanding of the petroleum systems potentially existing in this basin. We also define and describe the elements and processes of the Atar-Atar (!) petroleum system. This study is an example of the exploration of an unusual and high-risk play in some of the oldest sedimentary rocks on Earth, with a long, polyphase structural evolution, a complex thermal history (where burial might not be the only controlling factor), a massively diagenetized carbonate reservoir, and large uncertainties on the timing of generation, trap formation and preservation.
The Bromodomain Inhibitor JQ1 and the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Panobinostat Synergistically Reduce N-Myc Expression and Induce Anticancer Effects
Authors: Shahbazi Jeyran , Liu Pei Y. , Atmadibrata Bernard , Bradner James E. , Marshall Glenn M. , Lock Richard B. , Liu Tao 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Purpose: Patients with neuroblastoma associated with MYCN oncogene amplification experience a very poor prognosis. BET bromodomain inhibitors are among the most promising novel anticancer agents as they block BRD3 and BRD4 from activating oncogene transcription. However, treatment with BET bromodomain inhibitors alone does not result in cancer remission in many murine models.
Experimental Design: MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cells were treated with vehicle control, the BET bromodomain inhibitor JQ1, the histone deacetylase inhibitor panobinostat, or the combination of JQ1 and panobinostat. Genes modulated by JQ1, panobinostat, or the combination therapy were identified by Affymetrix microarray, and cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined by Alamar blue assays and flow cytometry analysis. Modulation of LIN28B promoter activity by BRD3 and BRD4 was examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assays. In addition, neuroblastoma-bearing mice were treated with vehicle control, JQ1, and/or panobinostat.
Results: LIN28B was one of the top genes synergistically reduced by JQ1 and panobinostat. BRD3 and BRD4 directly bound to the LIN28B gene promoter and activated LIN28B gene transcription, and knocking down LIN28B reduced the expression of N-Myc protein, but not N-Myc mRNA. JQ1 and panobinostat synergistically reduced LIN28B gene and N-Myc protein expression, and synergistically induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in neuroblastoma cells, but not normal nonmalignant cells in vitro. In neuroblastoma-bearing mice, JQ1 and panobinostat synergistically and considerably reduced N-Myc protein expression in tumor tissues and blocked tumor progression.
Conclusions: Our findings have identified a novel strategy to reduce the N-Myc oncoprotein expression and a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of aggressive neuroblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 22(10); 2534–44. ©2016 AACR.
Tracking Down Response and Resistance to TRK Inhibitors
Authors: Okimoto Ross A. , Bivona Trever G. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Summary: Two recent studies validate the LMNA–NTRK1 fusion as an oncogenic driver and therapeutic target of TRK inhibitors. The LMNA–NTRK1 fusion occurs at low frequency across multiple tumor types. The studies highlight the increasing need to develop molecular biomarker–based clinical trials across cancer subtypes.Cancer Discov; 6(1); 14–6. ©2016 AACR.
See related article by Russo et al., p. 36.