bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of Other-Regarding Preferences, Inequality, and Redistribution
Authors: Dimick Matthew , Rueda David , Stegmueller Daniel
Published: March 2018

Despite the increasing popularity of comparative work on other-regarding preferences, the implications of different models of altruism are not always fully understood. This article analyzes different theoretical approaches to altruism and explores what empirical conclusions we should draw from them, paying particular attention to models of redistribution preferences where inequality explicitly triggers other-regarding motives for redistribution. While the main contribution of this article is to clarify the conclusions of these models, we also illustrate the importance of their distinct implications by analyzing Western European data to compare among them. We draw on individual-level data from the European Social Survey fielded between September 2002 and December 2013.
Large animal models of stroke and traumatic brain injury as translational tools
Authors: Sorby-Adams Annabel J. , Vink Robert , Turner Renée J.
Published: March 2018

Acute central nervous system injury, encompassing traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, accounts for a significant burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Studies in animal models have greatly enhanced our understanding of the complex pathophysiology that underlies TBI and stroke and enabled the preclinical screening of over 1,000 novel therapeutic agents. Despite this, the translation of novel therapeutics from experimental models to clinical therapies has been extremely poor. One potential explanation for this poor clinical translation is the choice of experimental model, given that the majority of preclinical TBI and ischemic stroke studies have been conducted in small animals, such as rodents, which have small lissencephalic brains. However, the use of large animal species such as nonhuman primates, sheep, and pigs, which have large gyrencephalic human-like brains, may provide an avenue to improve clinical translation due to similarities in neuroanatomical structure when compared with widely adopted rodent models. This purpose of this review is to provide an overview of large animal models of TBI and ischemic stroke, including the surgical considerations, key benefits, and limitations of each approach.
Sherlock Holmes and the curious case of the human locomotor central pattern generator
Authors: Klarner Taryn , Zehr E. Paul
Published: March 2018

Evidence first described in reduced animal models over 100 years ago led to deductions about the control of locomotion through spinal locomotor central pattern-generating (CPG) networks. These discoveries in nature were contemporaneous with another form of deductive reasoning found in popular culture, that of Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective, Sherlock Holmes. Because the invasive methods used in reduced nonhuman animal preparations are not amenable to study in humans, we are left instead with deducing from other measures and observations. Using the deductive reasoning approach of Sherlock Holmes as a metaphor for framing research into human CPGs, we speculate and weigh the evidence that should be observable in humans based on knowledge from other species. This review summarizes indirect inference to assess “observable evidence” of pattern-generating activity that leads to the logical deduction of CPG contributions to arm and leg activity during locomotion in humans. The question of where a CPG may be housed in the human nervous system remains incompletely resolved at this time. Ongoing understanding, elaboration, and application of functioning locomotor CPGs in humans is important for gait rehabilitation strategies in those with neurological injuries.
Contribution of explicit processes to reinforcement-based motor learning
Authors: Holland Peter , Codol Olivier , Galea Joseph M.
Published: March 2018

Despite increasing interest in the role of reward in motor learning, the underlying mechanisms remain ill defined. In particular, the contribution of explicit processes to reward-based motor learning is unclear. To address this, we examined subjects’ ( n = 30) ability to learn to compensate for a gradually introduced 25° visuomotor rotation with only reward-based feedback (binary success/failure). Only two-thirds of subjects ( n = 20) were successful at the maximum angle. The remaining subjects initially followed the rotation but after a variable number of trials began to reach at an insufficiently large angle and subsequently returned to near-baseline performance ( n = 10). Furthermore, those who were successful accomplished this via a large explicit component, evidenced by a reduction in reach angle when they were asked to remove any strategy they employed. However, both groups displayed a small degree of remaining retention even after the removal of this explicit component. All subjects made greater and more variable changes in reach angle after incorrect (unrewarded) trials. However, subjects who failed to learn showed decreased sensitivity to errors, even in the initial period in which they followed the rotation, a pattern previously found in parkinsonian patients. In a second experiment, the addition of a secondary mental rotation task completely abolished learning ( n = 10), while a control group replicated the results of the first experiment ( n = 10). These results emphasize a pivotal role of explicit processes during reinforcement-based motor learning, and the susceptibility of this form of learning to disruption has important implications for its potential therapeutic benefits.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrate that learning a visuomotor rotation with only reward-based feedback is principally accomplished via the development of a large explicit component. Furthermore, this form of learning is susceptible to disruption with a secondary task. The results suggest that future experiments utilizing reward-based feedback should aim to dissect the roles of implicit and explicit reinforcement learning systems. Therapeutic motor learning approaches based on reward should be aware of the sensitivity to disruption.
Category representations in the brain are both discretely localized and widely distributed
Authors: Shehzad Zarrar , McCarthy Gregory
Published: March 2018

Whether category information is discretely localized or represented widely in the brain remains a contentious issue. Initial functional MRI studies supported the localizationist perspective that category information is represented in discrete brain regions. More recent fMRI studies using machine learning pattern classification techniques provide evidence for widespread distributed representations. However, these latter studies have not typically accounted for shared information. Here, we find strong support for distributed representations when brain regions are considered separately. However, localized representations are revealed by using analytical methods that separate unique from shared information among brain regions. The distributed nature of shared information and the localized nature of unique information suggest that brain connectivity may encourage spreading of information but category-specific computations are carried out in distinct domain-specific regions.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Whether visual category information is localized in unique domain-specific brain regions or distributed in many domain-general brain regions is hotly contested. We resolve this debate by using multivariate analyses to parse functional MRI signals from different brain regions into unique and shared variance. Our findings support elements of both models and show information is initially localized and then shared among other regions leading to distributed representations being observed.
Intracellular cAMP Sensor EPAC: Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutics Development
Authors: Robichaux William G. , Cheng Xiaodong
Published: March 2018

This review focuses on one family of the known cAMP receptors, the exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (EPACs), also known as the cAMP-regulated guanine nucleotide exchange factors (cAMP-GEFs). Although EPAC proteins are fairly new additions to the growing list of cAMP effectors, and relatively “young” in the cAMP discovery timeline, the significance of an EPAC presence in different cell systems is extraordinary. The study of EPACs has considerably expanded the diversity and adaptive nature of cAMP signaling associated with numerous physiological and pathophysiological responses. This review comprehensively covers EPAC protein functions at the molecular, cellular, physiological, and pathophysiological levels; and in turn, the applications of employing EPAC-based biosensors as detection tools for dissecting cAMP signaling and the implications for targeting EPAC proteins for therapeutic development are also discussed.
Image Denoising Algorithm Combined with SGK Dictionary Learning and Principal Component Analysis Noise Estimation
Authors: Zhao Wenjing , Chi Yue , Zhou Yatong , Zhang Cheng
Published: March 2018

SGK (sequential generalization of K-means) dictionary learning denoising algorithm has the characteristics of fast denoising speed and excellent denoising performance. However, the noise standard deviation must be known in advance when using SGK algorithm to process the image. This paper presents a denoising algorithm combined with SGK dictionary learning and the principal component analysis (PCA) noise estimation. At first, the noise standard deviation of the image is estimated by using the PCA noise estimation algorithm. And then it is used for SGK dictionary learning algorithm. Experimental results show the following: (1) The SGK algorithm has the best denoising performance compared with the other three dictionary learning algorithms. (2) The SGK algorithm combined with PCA is superior to the SGK algorithm combined with other noise estimation algorithms. (3) Compared with the original SGK algorithm, the proposed algorithm has higher PSNR and better denoising performance.
A New Fractal Multiband Antenna for Wireless Power Transmission Applications
Authors: Benyetho Taoufik , Zbitou Jamal , El Abdellaoui Larbi , Bennis Hamid , Tribak Abdelwahed
Published: March 2018

The Microwave Power Transmission (MPT) is the possibility of feeding a system without contact by using microwave energy. The challenge of such system is to increase the efficiency of transmitted energy from the emitter to the load. This can be achieved by rectifying the microwave energy using a rectenna system composed of an antenna of a significant gain associated with a rectifier with a good input impedance matching. In this paper, a new multiband antenna using the microstrip technology and fractal geometry is developed. The fractal antenna is validated into simulation and measurement in the ISM (industrial, scientific, and medical) band at 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz and it presents a wide aperture angle with an acceptable gain for both bands. The final antenna is printed over an FR4 substrate with a dimension of 60 × 30 mm2. These characteristics make the antenna suitable for a multiband rectenna circuit use.
Investigation on Mechanical Properties and Reaction Characteristics of Al‐PTFE Composites with Different Al Particle Size
Authors: Wu Jia-xiang , Fang Xiang , Gao Zhen-ru , Wang Huai-xi , Huang Jun-yi , Wu Shuang-zhang , Li Yu-chun
Published: March 2018

Al‐PTFE (aluminum‐polytetrafluoroethylene) serves as one among the most promising reactive materials (RMs). In this work, six types of Al‐PTFE composites with different Al particle sizes (i.e., 50 nm, 1∼2 μm, 6∼7 μm, 12∼14 μm, 22∼24 μm, and 32∼34 μm) were prepared, and quasistatic compression and drop weight tests were conducted to characterize the mechanical properties and reaction characteristics of Al‐PTFE composites. The reaction phenomenon and stress‐strain curves were recorded by a high‐speed camera and universal testing machine. The microstructure of selected specimens was anatomized through adopting a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to correlate the mesoscale structural characteristics to their macroproperties. As the results indicated, in the case of quasistatic compression, the strength of the composites was decreased (the yield strength falling from 22.7 MPa to 13.6 MPa and the hardening modulus declining from 33.3 MPa to 25 MPa) with the increase of the Al particle size. The toughness rose firstly and subsequently decreased and peaked as 116.42 MJ/m3 at 6∼7 μm. The reaction phenomenon occurred only in composites with the Al particle size less than 10 μm. In drop weight tests, six types of specimens were overall reacted. As the Al particle size rose, the ignition energy of the composites enhanced and the composites turned out to be more insensitive to reaction. In a lower strain rate range (10−2·s−1∼102·s−1), Al‐PTFE specimens take on different mechanical properties and reaction characteristics in the case of different strain rates. The formation of circumferential open cracks is deemed as a prerequisite for Al‐PTFE specimens to go through a reaction.
Characterization of the Antioxidant Effects of γ‐Oryzanol: Involvement of the Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Rungratanawanich W. , Abate G. , Serafini M. M. , Guarienti M. , Catanzaro M. , Marziano M. , Memo M. , Lanni C. , Uberti D.
Published: March 2018

γ‐Oryzanol (ORY) is well known for its antioxidant potential. However, the mechanism by which ORY exerts its antioxidant effect is still unclear. In this paper, the antioxidant properties of ORY were investigated for its potential effects as a reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) scavenger and in activating antioxidant‐promoting intracellular pathways utilizing the human embryonic kidney cells (HEK‐293). The 24 h ORY exposure significantly prevented hydrogen peroxide‐ (H2O2‐) induced ROS/RNS production at 3 h, and this effect was sustained for at least 24 h. ORY pretreatment also enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Interestingly, ORY induced the nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation and upregulation of Nrf2‐dependent defensive genes such as NAD(P)H quinone reductase (NQO1), heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and glutathione synthetase (GSS) at mRNA and protein levels in both basal condition and after H2O2 insult. Thus, this study suggested an intriguing effect of ORY in modulating the Nrf2 pathway, which is also involved in regulating longevity as well as age‐related diseases.
Optimization of Visual Information Presentation for Visual Prosthesis
Authors: Guo Fei , Yang Yuan , Gao Yong
Published: March 2018

Visual prosthesis applying electrical stimulation to restore visual function for the blind has promising prospects. However, due to the low resolution, limited visual field, and the low dynamic range of the visual perception, huge loss of information occurred when presenting daily scenes. The ability of object recognition in real-life scenarios is severely restricted for prosthetic users. To overcome the limitations, optimizing the visual information in the simulated prosthetic vision has been the focus of research. This paper proposes two image processing strategies based on a salient object detection technique. The two processing strategies enable the prosthetic implants to focus on the object of interest and suppress the background clutter. Psychophysical experiments show that techniques such as foreground zooming with background clutter removal and foreground edge detection with background reduction have positive impacts on the task of object recognition in simulated prosthetic vision. By using edge detection and zooming technique, the two processing strategies significantly improve the recognition accuracy of objects. We can conclude that the visual prosthesis using our proposed strategy can assist the blind to improve their ability to recognize objects. The results will provide effective solutions for the further development of visual prosthesis.
Facile and Novel in-Plane Structured Graphene/TiO2 Nanocomposites for Memory Applications
Authors: Shehata E. M. , Ibrahim M. M. , Balboul M. R.
Published: March 2018

Here, we report a simple strategy for the preparation of graphene/TiO2 nanocomposite by UV-assisted incorporation of TiO2 nanosol in graphene oxide (GO) dispersion. The proposed method is facile and of low cost without using any photocatalysts or reducing agents; this can open up a new possibility for green preparation of stable graphene dispersions in large-scale production. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have been used to characterize carefully the as-prepared composites and to confirm the successful preparation of the nanocomposites. The average crystallite size of TiO2 nanoparticles calculated from XRD pattern using Rietveld analysis is ~35 nm. TEM measurements show the adsorption of TiO2 onto graphene (G) sheets, which prevents the restacking of graphene sheets. Current-voltage and capacitance-voltage measurements were used to investigate the electrical resistive memory properties of GO, GO/TiO2, and G/TiO2 thin films. Observed results show hysteresis behavior due to the charge trapping and detrapping process, indicating that the prepared thin films exhibit an excellent resistance switching memory characteristic for G/TiO2 device.
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) Beverage: Nutraceutical Ingredient or Conveyor for the Intake of Medicinal Plants? Evidence from Paraguayan Folk Medicine
Authors: Kujawska Monika
Published: March 2018

The use of medicinal plants mixed with yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) has been poorly studied in the ethnopharmacological literature so far. The Paraguayan Mestizo people have the longest tradition of using the yerba mate beverage, apart from the indigenous Guarani people. This study analyses the role of yerba mate and medicinal plants in the treatment of illnesses within Paraguayan folk medicine. The research was conducted among 100 Paraguayan migrants living in Misiones, Argentina, in 2014 and 2015. Yerba mate is not considered to be a medicinal plant by its own virtues but is culturally a very important type of medicinal plant intake. Ninety‐seven species are employed in hot and cold versions of the yerba mate beverage. The most important species are as follows: Allophylus edulis (highest number of citations), Aristolochia triangularis (highest relative importance value), and Achyrocline flaccida and Achyrocline tomentosa (highest score by Index of Agreement on Species). The plants are used in the treatment of 18 medicinal categories, which include illnesses traditionally treated with plants: digestive system, humoral medicine, and relatively new health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high levels of cholesterol. Newly incorporated medicinal plants, such as Moringa oleifera, are ingested predominantly or exclusively with the mate beverage.
Experiment on Behavior of a New Connector Used in Bamboo (Timber) Frame Structure under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Zhou Junwen , Huang Dongsheng , Ni Chun , Shen Yurong , Zhao Longlong
Published: March 2018

Connection is an important part of the bamboo and timber structure, and it directly influences the overall structural performance and safety. Based on a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical performance of several wood connections, a new connector for the bamboo (timber) frame joint was proposed in this paper. Three full‐scale T‐type joint specimens were designed to study the mechanical performance under cyclic loading. The thickness of the hollow steel column was different among three specimens. The specimens were loaded under displacement control with a rate of 10 mm per minute until the specimens reach failure. It was observed that the failures of three specimens were caused by the buckling of flanges in the compression and that the steel of connections does not yield. The load‐displacement hysteretic curve for three specimens is relatively plump, and the stiffness of connection degenerates with the increasing of cyclic load. The maximum rotation is 0.049 rad, and the energy dissipation coefficient is 1.77. The thickness of the hollow steel column of the connector has significant impact on the energy dissipation capacity and the strength of the connection. A simplified moment‐rotation hysteresis model for the joint was proposed.
In Vivo Study on Site of Action of Sinapine Thiocyanate following Acupoint Herbal Patching
Authors: Chen Shan , Jin Yu-Tong , Zhu Zheng-Yang , Wu Ling-Tao , Yang Ping , Jin Ping , Xuan Li-Hua
Published: March 2018

Objective. To investigate the site of action of sinapine thiocyanate (ST), following acupoint herbal patching (AHP). Methods. Twenty Wistar rats were randomized into five groups (groups A, B, C, D, and E), and all groups received the same AHP in vivo. Skin samples were excised at 2 h, 4 h, 6 h, 10 h, and 26 h after AHP administration from group A to group E separately and the concentrations of ST in the skin were determined using a liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method. A pharmacokinetic profile of ST following AHP was performed at the same time in a group of five Wistar rats to detect plasma levels at the same time intervals. Results. The mean ± SD ST concentrations (ng/ml) at 2 h (group A), 4 h (group B), 6 h (group C), 10 h (group D), and 26 h (group E) after AHP administration were 250.01 ± 61.99, 61.01 ± 30.41, 40.12 ± 26.94, 78.66 ± 59.43, and 19.55 ± 18.95, respectively. No ST was detected in rats’ plasma samples at the same time points. Conclusions. The site of action of ST following AHP is in the skin.
Impaired Secretion of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 in Patients with Colorectal Adenoma after an Oral Glucose Load
Authors: Sasaki Yu , Abe Yasuhiko , Takeda Hiroaki , Nishise Shoichi , Yaoita Takao , Yagi Makoto , Sakuta Kazuhiro , Mizumoto Naoko , Shoji Masakuni , Onozato Yusuke , Kawata Sumio , Ueno Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Obesity and insulin resistance are associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenoma (CRA). Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) plays an important role in glucose homeostasis through its amplification of insulin secretion in response to oral nutrients; however, its role in human CRA remains unknown. We investigated oral glucose-mediated GLP-1 secretion in patients with adenoma. Methods: We performed a case-control study of 15 nondiabetic patients with pathologically diagnosed CRA and 10 age-matched healthy controls without adenoma. Plasma concentrations of active GLP-1 were measured during a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Results: Mean waist circumference (WC), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values, the total areas under the curve (AUC) of glucose and insulin were significantly higher in patients with CRA than in controls. The total AUC of GLP-1 (p = 0.01) was lower in patients with CRA than in controls. Moreover, the total AUC of GLP-1 showed a negative correlation with WC, total AUC of glucose, and HOMA-IR. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that the total AUC of GLP-1 was independently correlated with the number and maximum size of CRAs. Conclusion: GLP-1 could actively participate in the development of CRA in humans, particularly in patients with metabolic syndrome.
A Retrospective Analysis of the Outcomes of Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas Treated with Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Seo Youngbeom , Kim Dong Gyu , Dho Yun-Sik , Kim Jin Wook , Kim Yong Hwy , Park Chul-Kee , Chung Hyun-Tai , Paek Sun-Ha
Published: March 2018

Background: Gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) has recently been used as a treatment modality for dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF). Objective: To retrospectively analyze the outcomes of GKRS for DAVF at a single institute. Methods: Between 1998 and 2016, a total of 20 patients underwent GKRS for DAVF. After excluding 4 patients with > 12 months of follow-up, 16 patients were enrolled in this study. Twelve patients had undergone embolization prior to GKRS. The most common location was the cavernous sinus (CS). The median clinical and radiological follow-up durations were 87.5 (range 24–186) months and 44.5 (range 14–174) months. Results: Ten (62.5%) of the 16 DAVFs were obliterated; 8 were confirmed on angiography. Five cases resulted in small, residual DAVFs, and one case remained unchanged. The obliteration rate of GKRS for CS DAVF was significantly higher than that for non-CS DAVF (100 vs. 40%; p = 0.034). Fifteen out of 16 patients (94%) had a favorable outcome, and the remaining patient had an unfavorable outcome. Hemorrhage after GKRS occurred in only 1 patient, who presented with seizure. Conclusions: GKRS is a safe and effective treatment modality for DAVF in combination with a traditional treatment option such as endovascular embolization or microsurgery.
Psychosis Is Mutable over Time: A Longitudinal Psychopathology Study
Authors: Wigand Moritz E. , Lang Fabian U. , Müller-Stierlin Annabel S. , Reichhardt Lea , Trif Silvana , Schulze Thomas G. , Strik Werner , Becker Thomas , Jäger Markus
Published: March 2018

Background: A neurobiologically informed, system-specific psychopathological approach has been suggested for use in schizophrenia. However, to our knowledge, such an approach has not been used to prospectively describe the course of schizophrenia. Sampling and Methods: We assessed psychopathology in a well-described sample of 100 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder with the Bern Psychopathology Scale (BPS) at 6-month intervals for up to 18 months. The BPS groups symptoms into the 3 domains language, affectivity and motor behaviour; each domain is rated as being normal, inhibited or disinhibited. In addition, we collected qualitative psychopathological data in the form of case reports. Results: Forty-eight patients completed at least 2 assessments over the course of at least 1 year. Of these, 16 patients (33.3%) showed a bipolar course pattern (i.e., a switch from inhibited to disinhibited or vice versa) in 1 domain and 6 patients (12.5%) in more than 1 domain. Shifts from 1 dominant domain to another were seen frequently (n = 20, 41.7%), but shifts between 1 dominant domain and a combination of dominant domains were more common (n = 33, 68.8%). Conclusions: The course of schizophrenia is heterogeneous and shows frequent changes in psychopathology. This should be taken into account in the communication with patients and in the research on underlying illness mechanisms and treatment. A major limitation of this study is the small sample size.
ABC Dementia Scale: A Quick Assessment Tool for Determining Alzheimer’s Disease Severity
Authors: Mori Takahiro , Kikuchi Takashi , Umeda-Kameyama Yumi , Wada-Isoe Kenji , Kojima Shinsuke , Kagimura Tatsuo , Kudoh Chiaki , Uchikado Hirotake , Ueki Akinori , Yamashita Masato , Watabe Toshiyuki , Nishimura Chika , Tsuno Norifumi , Ueda Takashi , Akishita Masahiro , Nakamura Yu ,   on behalf of the ABC Dementia Scale Study Group
Published: March 2018

Background: In this study, we examined the construct validity, concurrent validity concerning other standard scales, intrarater reliability, and changes in scores at 12 weeks of the previously developed ABC Dementia Scale (ABC-DS), a novel assessment tool for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: Data were obtained from 312 patients diagnosed with either AD or mild cognitive impairment. The scores on the ABC-DS and standard scales were compared. Results: The 13 items of the ABC-DS are grouped into three domains, and the domain-level scores were highly correlated with the corresponding conventional scales. Statistically significant changes in assessment scores after 12 weeks were observed for the total ABC-DS scores. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the ABC-DS to have good validity and reliability, and its usefulness in busy clinical settings.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Regulation of Ewing Sarcoma Cell Function
Authors: Kersting Nathália  , Kunzler Souza Bárbara  , Araujo Vieira Igor  , Pereira dos Santos Rafael  , Brufatto Olguins Danielly  , José Gregianin Lauro  , Tesainer Brunetto André  , Lunardi Brunetto Algemir  , Roesler Rafael , Brunetto de Farias Caroline , Schwartsmann Gilberto
Published: March 2018

Objective: Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a type of childhood cancer probably arising from stem mesenchymal or neural crest cells. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) acts as a driver oncogene in many types of solid tumors. However, its involvement in ES remains poorly understood. Methods: Human SK-ES-1 and RD-ES ES cells were treated with EGF, the EGFR inhibitor tyrphostin (AG1478), or phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) or extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)/mitogen-activated kinase (MAPK) inhibitors. Cell proliferation survival, cycle, and senescence were analyzed. The protein content of possible targets of EGFR manipulation was measured by Western blot. Results: Cell proliferation and survival were increased by EGF and inhibited by AG1478. The EGFR inhibitor also altered the cell cycle, inducing arrest in G1 and increasing the sub-G1 population, reduced polyploidy and increased the population of senescent cells. In addition, AG1478 reduced the levels of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT), ERK, p-ERK, cyclin D1, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while enhancing p53 levels. Cell proliferation was also impaired by inhibitors of PI3K or ERK, alone or combined with AG1478. Conclusions: Our findings reveal novel aspects of EGFR regulation of ES cells and provide early evidence for antitumor activities of EGFR inhibitors in ES.
Risk Factors of Renal Involvement Based on Different Manifestations in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Wu Yan , Zhang Guangli , Wang Niansong , Xue Qin
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Renal involvement is one of the most common extra-articular complications caused by ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Most studies have focused on the incidence rate, clinical manifestation and pathology, while risk factors have hardly been investigated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the risk factors of renal involvement in patients with AS. Methods: Clinical and biochemical data of 926 AS patients were collected. Based on the manifestations of renal involvement, patients were divided into three groups and the differences in clinical and biochemical characteristics were compared. A group with non-renal involvement served as a control. Multivariable logistic regression was used for analyzing risk factors of renal involvement in AS. Results: Of the 926 AS patients, 201 patients suffered from renal involvement. Moreover, female AS patients faced a higher risk of hematuria compared to male patients. As indicated by the data obtained from multivariate logistic regression analysis, gender, uric acid (UA), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and serum albumin (ALB) were found to be risk factors of renal involvement in AS. An increase in UA or IgA levels, or a decrease in ALB level can increase the risk of renal involvement with multiple manifestations (more than one manifestation of renal damage). According to our findings, no definite variable was identified as a risk factor of proteinuria in AS patients. Conclusion: In AS patients, UA, IgA, and ALB levels can indicate the risk of renal involvement in AS patient and need to be paid special attention. Furthermore, women are subjected to a higher risk of hematuria.
Clinical Outcome of Electrophysiologically Guided Ablation for Nonparoxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Using a Novel Real-Time 3-Dimensional Mapping Technique
Authors: Pappone Carlo , Ciconte Giuseppe , Vicedomini Gabriele , Mangual Jan O. , Li Wenwen , Conti Manuel , Giannelli Luigi , Lipartiti Felicia , McSpadden Luke , Ryu Kyungmoo , Guazzi Marco , Menicanti Lorenzo , Santinelli Vincenzo
Published: March 2018

Background:

Clinical outcomes after ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation remain suboptimal. Identification of AF drivers using a novel integrated mapping technique may be crucial to ameliorate the clinical outcome.

Methods and Results:

Persistent AF patients were prospectively enrolled to undergo high-density electrophysiological mapping to identify repetitive-regular activities (RRas) before modified circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) ablation. They have been randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) to ablation of RRa followed by modified circumferential PV ablation (mapping group; n=41) or modified circumferential PV ablation alone (control group; n=40). The primary end point was freedom from arrhythmic recurrences at 1 year. In total, 81 persistent AF patients (74% male; mean age, 61.7±10.6 years) underwent mapping/ablation procedure. The regions exhibiting RRa were 479 in 81 patients (5.9±2.4 RRa per patient): 232 regions in the mapping group (n=41) and 247 in the control group (n=40). Overall, 185 of 479 (39%) RRas were identified within the PVs, whereas 294 of 479 (61%) in non-PV regions. Mapping-guided ablation resulted in higher arrhythmia termination rate when compared with conventional strategy (25/41, 61% versus 12/40, 30%;
P
<0.007). Total radiofrequency duration (
P
=0.38), mapping (
P
=0.46), and fluoroscopy times (
P
=0.69) were not significantly different between the groups. No major procedure-related adverse events occurred. After 1 year, 73.2% of mapping group patients were free from recurrences versus 50% of control group (
P
=0.03).

Conclusions:

Targeted ablation of regions showing RRa provided an adjunctive benefit in terms of arrhythmia freedom at 1-year follow-up in the treatment of persistent AF. These findings might support a patient-tailored strategy in subjects with nonparoxysmal AF and should be confirmed by additional larger, randomized, multicenter studies.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier NCT02571218.
Long-Term Caloric Restriction Improves Cardiac Function, Remodeling, Adrenergic Responsiveness, and Sympathetic Innervation in a Model of Postischemic Heart Failure
Authors: de Lucia Claudio , Gambino Giuseppina , Petraglia Laura , Elia Andrea , Komici Klara , Femminella Grazia Daniela , D’Amico Maria Loreta , Formisano Roberto , Borghetti Giulia , Liccardo Daniela , Nolano Maria , Houser Steven R. , Leosco Dario , Ferrara Nicola , Koch Walter J. , Rengo Giuseppe
Published: March 2018

Background:

Caloric restriction (CR) has been described to have cardioprotective effects and improve functional outcomes in animal models and humans. Chronic ischemic heart failure (HF) is associated with reduced cardiac sympathetic innervation, dysfunctional β-adrenergic receptor signaling, and decreased cardiac inotropic reserve. We tested the effects of a long-term CR diet, started late after myocardial infarction on cardiac function, sympathetic innervation, and β-adrenergic receptor responsiveness in a rat model of postischemic HF.

Methods and Results:

Adult male rats were randomly assigned to myocardial infarction or sham operation and 4 weeks later were further randomized to a 1-year CR or normal diet. One year of CR resulted in a significant reduction in body weight, heart weight, and heart weight/tibia length ratio when compared with normal diet in HF groups. At the end of the study period, echocardiography and histology revealed that HF animals under the CR diet had ameliorated left ventricular remodeling compared with HF rats fed with normal diet. Invasive hemodynamic showed a significant improvement of cardiac inotropic reserve in CR HF rats compared with HF-normal diet animals. Importantly, CR dietary regimen was associated with a significant increase of cardiac sympathetic innervation and with normalized cardiac β-adrenergic receptor levels in HF rats when compared with HF rats on the standard diet.

Conclusions:

We demonstrate, for the first time, that chronic CR, when started after HF established, can ameliorate cardiac dysfunction and improve inotropic reserve. At the molecular level, we find that chronic CR diet significantly improves sympathetic cardiac innervation and β-adrenergic receptor levels in failing myocardium.
Impact of the MitraClip Procedure on Left Atrial Strain and Strain Rate
Authors: Gucuk Ipek Esra , Singh Siddharth , Viloria Esperanza , Feldman Ted , Grayburn Paul , Foster Elyse , Qasim Atif
Published: March 2018

Background—

Although reverse remodeling of the left atrium (LA) has been shown after MitraClip placement in degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR), changes in LA strain and strain rate have not been evaluated in these patients or compared with surgical mitral valve repair.

Methods and Results—

We included 87 subjects (mean age 59.7±12.3 years) with degenerative MR enrolled in the randomized EVEREST II trial (Endovascular Valve Edge-to-Edge Repair Study II). Baseline peak positive LA strain (ε) and strain rates along with longitudinal left ventricular strain (LV ε) were compared with 12-month follow-up measures. At 12 months, all 38 mitral valve repair subjects had ≤2+ MR, and 31 of the 49 MitraClip had ≤2+ MR. Baseline LA strain and strain rate values were similar in MitraClip and mitral valve repair groups. Of the strain rate measures, only peak early diastolic strain rate was consistently decreased in all treatment arms. In patients with reduced baseline LA ε, no significant change in LA ε occurred in either the MitraClip or mitral valve repair group despite significant MR and LA volume reduction. However, in patients with normal or high baseline ε, successful MR reduction by either method resulted in return of LA ε to normative values. There was a significant correlation between LA ε, LV ε values, and change in LA ε and LV ε over time.

Conclusions—

Changes seen in LA ε seem to depend on baseline LA and LV function. Changes in LA ε after MR reduction may reflect a decrease in LA expansion but may also be influenced by the degree of pre-existing LA dysfunction.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00209274.
Hyperintense Plaque on Intracranial Vessel Wall Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Predictor of Artery-to-Artery Embolic Infarction
Authors: Wu Fang , Song Haiqing , Ma Qingfeng , Xiao Jiayu , Jiang Tao , Huang Xiaoqin , Bi Xiaoming , Guo Xiuhai , Li Debiao , Yang Qi , Ji Xunming , Fan Zhaoyang , Yu Huan , Cui Bin , Sun Jiayu , Sun Bin , Xia Shuang , Han Tong , Cheng Jingliang
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose—

The aim of the present study was to investigate atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in patients with artery-to-artery (A-to-A) embolic infarction by whole-brain high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods—

Seventy-four patients (mean age, 54.7±12.1 years; 59 men) with recent stroke in the territory of middle cerebral artery because of intracranial atherosclerotic disease were prospectively enrolled. Whole-brain high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging was performed in all the patients both precontrast and postcontrast administration by using a 3-dimensional T1-weighted vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging technique known as inversion-recovery prepared sampling perfection with application-optimized contrast using different flip angle evolutions. Patients were divided into A-to-A embolic infarction and non–A-to-A embolic infarction groups based on diffusion-weighted imaging findings. The characteristics of the intracranial atherosclerotic plaques were compared between groups.

Results—

A total of 74 intracranial atherosclerotic plaques were analyzed (36 in A-to-A embolism group and 38 in non–A-to-A embolism group). Hyperintense plaques (HIPs) were more frequently observed in A-to-A embolism group (75.0% versus 21.1%;
P
<0.001). Eighteen of the 27 HIPs (66.7%) demonstrated hyperintense spots or areas located adjacent to the lumen versus 9 HIPs (33.3%) located within the plaque in A-to-A embolism group. Furthermore, a higher prevalence of plaque surface irregularity was also observed in A-to-A embolism group (41.7% versus 18.4%;
P
=0.029). Logistic regression analysis showed that HIP was the most powerful independent predictor of A-to-A embolic infarction (
P
<0.001), with the odds ratio of 11.2 (95% confidence interval, 3.5–36.2).

Conclusions—

A-to-A embolic infarction has distinct vulnerable plaque characteristics compared with non–A-to-A embolic infarction. HIP and plaque surface irregularity may predict A-to-A embolic infarction.
Small Fires Burning: Bruce Nauman and the Activation of Conceptual Art
Authors: Walsh Taylor
Published: March 2018

In 1968, a year of mounting opposition to the Vietnam War, a young Bruce Nauman laid waste to a work of contemporary art. His antagonism was unleashed on Various Small Fires (1964) by Ed Ruscha, a booklet of fifteen black-and-white photos of harmless, domestic-scaled flames. After ripping out and igniting each page, Nauman photographed and rebound the charred remnants to form a new text, Burning Small Fires. Here Ruscha's volume supplies the fodder for its own assault, as Nauman cannibalizes a work of Conceptual art to expose its limitations and blind spots. For although it has never been read as such, Nauman's book was a timely project: both an explicit dialogue with the work of a peer and an implicit response to the events of the day. While Ruscha's static images treat burning as “absolutely neutral”—an “introverted” and “meaningless” subject—Nauman restores the sense of ritual power that fire then held in the culture of protest. This essay measures the distance in tone and technique between the original work and its destructive double, as an early-1960s aesthetic of relentless banality gave way to more volatile forces.
Dumping Sites, Witches and Soul-Pollution
Authors: Atiemo Abamfo Ofori
Published: March 2018

The generation of waste and how to manage it pose challenges to municipal and district authorities in many parts of the world. In the African context, poverty, bad management practices, and increasing consumerist culture have conspired to render the situation even more complex. Complicating the situation further is the addition of synthetic and electronic waste, non-biodegradable and, in several cases, hazardous. Drawing on personal first hand experiences in Ghana from the perspective of a pastor and a scholar of religious studies, the author reflects on contemporary waste and its (mis)management in Africa and how these affect the dignity and security of present and future generations. He draws on relevant theological motifs from Christianity and indigenous African religious beliefs and practices as well as insights from sociology and eco-theological ethics to analyse the challenge and explore ways in which African Christian public opinion may be mobilized to help address the challenge.
Post-Materialist Integral Ecology
Authors: Apffel-Marglin Frédérique
Published: March 2018

This essay is an example of a post-materialist science in the work of molecular biologist Candace Pert. Post-materialist science supersedes materialist-reductionist science and integrates spirituality with materiality. This discussion is motivated by the author’s experience as an academic in a New England institution. Integral ecology is entangled with post-material science as in the work of cosmologist Brian Swimme, Thomas Berry and Mary-Evelyn Tucker. The last part discusses the author’s creation of a non-profit organization in the Peruvian Upper Amazon. The work of her center is a response to requests by the local indigenous leadership for an alternative to their slash and burn form of agriculture. The alternative is the regeneration of a pre-Columbian anthropogenic Amazonian soil known as Terra Preta do Indio (black earth of the Indians) in Brazil, which integrates materiality and spirituality and offers the possibility of food security and sovereignty as well as climate mitigation.
Disputed, Sensitive and Indispensable Topics: The Study of Islam and Apostasy
Authors: Larsson Göran
Published: March 2018

Using examples from my research on apostasy from Islam, in this article I address some basic methodological and theoretical issues in the study of religions. The article contains an outline of major Muslim debates about apostasy in Islamic traditions, why apostasy is punished, where it is punished and the methodological challenges involved in its study. My aim in doing so is to show why it is difficult, but also important, to study apostasy and to show why we need to engage with empirical research that takes into consideration the lives of individuals who are accused of it.
ποικιλόνωτος ἀνήρ: Clothing Metaphors and Nonnus’ Ambiguous Christology in the Paraphrase of the Gospel according to John
Authors: Hadjittofi Fotini
Published: March 2018

This article examines three passages in Nonnus’ Paraphrase of the Gospel according to John (19.21-25; 19.118-132; 20.81-82), all of which mention pieces of clothing in the context of Christ’s passion and resurrection. It argues that Nonnus allows, and indeed encourages, both literal readings and metaphorical interpretations of the garments as stand-ins for Christ’s body. The readings which do not turn garments into symbols of the body would be more in agreement with the Orthodox theology of Nonnus’ time, while the metaphorical interpretations would be more amenable to a heterodox (Origenist or Nestorian) construal. The poem’s ambivalence in the employment of clothing metaphors indicates an attitude that is less strictly Alexandrian / Orthodox and more polyphonic than has so far been assumed.
Reception History, Early Pentecostal Literature, and the Pneumatology of the Apocalypse
Authors: Johnson David R.
Published: March 2018

This article examines the early Pentecostal literature in the Wesleyan-Holiness and Finished-Work streams of the tradition by utilizing Wirkungsgeschichte to consider the ways in which early Pentecostals explored the pneumatology of the Apocalypse from 1906–1918. This article reveals that the early Pentecostal interpretations were attentive to the pneumatology of the Apocalypse and that their pneumatic experiences were influenced by language and imagery from the Apocalypse.
Predestination and the Freedom of God
Authors: Emerick Christopher C.
Published: March 2018

Historically, the Pentecostal and charismatic traditions have opted for a basic Arminian view of predestination and election. This article responds to two recent articles on predestination and election by Chris Green highlighting some concerns about his view. As a means of preserving divine freedom and based upon the doctrine of the sovereignty of the Spirit, Pentecostals and charismatics are encouraged to consider afresh a Reformed understanding of predestination and election.
What Hath Loyola to do with Azusa Street?
Authors: Coleman Creighton D.
Published: March 2018

This paper argues that Ignatian principles for the discernment of spirits appear throughout Amos Yong’s theology of world religions. In an effort to locate a greater Pentecostal relationship to tradition and contribute to ecumenical dialogue, the author points to three examples. First, for both Ignatius and Yong, good and evil spirits exist and interact with human persons. Second, both see divine activity in all people. This argument stems from theological considerations and stands distinct from the metaphysical considerations made in the first point. Finally, both rely on the affective as a genuine source of knowledge in discerning spirits. The argument regarding this latter point will center on a methodological consideration.
Chlorogomphus canhvang sp. nov. from Central Vietnam (Odonata: Chlorogomphidae)
Authors: KOMPIER TOM , KARUBE HARUKI
Published: March 2018

Chlorogomphus canhvang sp. nov. [holotype male: Along QL15, Quang Binh Province (appr. 17.488 N, 106.302 E), 6.V.2016] is described from the Truong Son Mountains (Quang Binh and Thua Thien—Hue Provinces) in central Vietnam. Detailed differences are given to distinguish the new species from the very similar C. auratus Martin, 1910 for both males and females, and information on its ecology is provided.