bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Particle-number conservation in quasiparticle representation in the isovector neutron–proton pairing case
Authors: Fellah M. , Allal N. H. , Hammache Faiza , Oudih M. R.
Published: December 2015

Until now, the Sharp-Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (SBCS) particle-number projection method, in the isovector neutron–proton pairing case, has been developed in the particle representation. However, this formalism is sometimes complicated and cumbersome. In this work, the formalism is developed in the quasiparticle representation. An expression of the projected ground state wave function is proposed. Expressions of the energy as well as the expectation values of the total particle-number operator and its square are deduced. It is shown that these expressions are formally similar to their homologues in the pairing between like-particles case. They are easier to handle than the ones obtained using the particle representation and are more adapted to numerical calculations.

The method is then numerically tested within the schematic one-level model, which allows comparisons with exact results, as well as in the case of even–even nuclei within the Woods–Saxon model. In each case, it is shown that the particle-number fluctuations that are inherent to the BCS method are completely eliminated by the projection. In the framework of the one-level model, the values of the projected energy are clearly closer to the exact values than the BCS ones. In realistic cases, the relative discrepancies between projected and unprojected values of the energy are small. However, the absolute deviations may reach several MeV.
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OF MEDICAL DEVICES FOSTERED BY CROSS-DISCIPLINARY COMMUNITIES OF PRACTITIONERS
Authors: PÁEZ-AVILÉS CRISTINA , JUANOLA-FELIU ESTEVE , BOGACHAN-TAHIRBEGI ISLAM , MIR MÓNICA , GONZÁLEZ-PIÑERO MANEL , SAMITIER JOSEP
Published: December 2015

Commercialisation of emerging technological innovations such as medical devices can be a time-consuming and lengthy process resulting in a market entrance failure. To tackle this general problem, major challenges are being analysed, principally focusing on the role of Communities of Practitioners (CoPs) in the process of effective transfer of high-value emerging technologies from academia to market. Taking a case study approach, this document describes the role of a cross-disciplinary CoP in the technology transfer process within a convergence scenario. The case presented is a sensor array for ischemia detection developed by different practitioners from diverse organisations: university, research institution, hospital, and a scientific park. The analysis also involves the innovation ecosystem where all stakeholders are taken into account. This study contributes to a better understanding of the managerial implications of CoP fostering technology transfer and innovation, principally focused on the current need for new biomedical technologies and tools.
PROTON+
Authors: Beuningen Anja Von , Ramini Luca , Bertozzi Davide , Schlichtmann Ulf
Published: December 2015

Optical Networks-on-Chip (ONoCs) are a promising technology to overcome the bottleneck of low bandwidth of electronic Networks-on-Chip. Recent research discusses power and performance benefits of ONoCs based on their system-level design, while layout effects are typically overlooked. As a consequence, laser power requirements are inaccurately computed from the logic scheme but do not consider the layout. In this article, we propose PROTON+, a fast tool for placement and routing of 3D ONoCs minimizing the total laser power. Using our tool, the required laser power of the system can be decreased by up to 94% compared to a state-of-the-art manually designed layout. In addition, with the help of our tool, we study the physical design space of ONoC topologies. For this purpose, topology synthesis methods (e.g., global connectivity and network partitioning) as well as different objective function weights are analyzed in order to minimize the maximum insertion loss and ultimately the system’s laser power consumption. For the first time, we study optimal positions of memory controllers. A comparison of our algorithm to a state-of-the-art placer for electronic circuits shows the need for a different set of tools custom-tailored for the particular requirements of optical interconnects.
Energy expenditure during level human walking: seeking a simple and accurate predictive solution
Authors: Ludlow Lindsay W. , Weyand Peter G.
Published: December 2015

Accurate prediction of the metabolic energy that walking requires can inform numerous health, bodily status, and fitness outcomes. We adopted a two-step approach to identifying a concise, generalized equation for predicting level human walking metabolism. Using literature-aggregated values we compared 1) the predictive accuracy of three literature equations: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Pandolf et al., and Height-Weight-Speed (HWS); and 2) the goodness-of-fit possible from one- vs. two-component descriptions of walking metabolism. Literature metabolic rate values ( n = 127; speed range = 0.4 to 1.9 m/s) were aggregated from 25 subject populations ( n = 5-42) whose means spanned a 1.8-fold range of heights and a 4.2-fold range of weights. Population-specific resting metabolic rates (V̇o2rest) were determined using standardized equations. Our first finding was that the ACSM and Pandolf et al. equations underpredicted nearly all 127 literature-aggregated values. Consequently, their standard errors of estimate (SEE) were nearly four times greater than those of the HWS equation (4.51 and 4.39 vs. 1.13 ml O2·kg−1·min−1, respectively). For our second comparison, empirical best-fit relationships for walking metabolism were derived from the data set in one- and two-component forms for three V̇o2-speed model types: linear (∝V1.0), exponential (∝V2.0), and exponential/height (∝V2.0/Ht). We found that the proportion of variance ( R2) accounted for, when averaged across the three model types, was substantially lower for one- vs. two-component versions (0.63 ± 0.1 vs. 0.90 ± 0.03) and the predictive errors were nearly twice as great (SEE = 2.22 vs. 1.21 ml O2·kg−1·min−1). Our final analysis identified the following concise, generalized equation for predicting level human walking metabolism: V̇o2total= V̇o2rest+ 3.85 + 5.97·V2/Ht (where V is measured in m/s, Ht in meters, and V̇o2in ml O2·kg−1·min−1).
Cardioprotection and Anticholinesterases in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: Time for Reappraisal
Authors: Monacelli Fiammetta , Odetti Patrizio , Sartini Marina , Parodi Antonello , Brunelli Claudio , Rosa Gianmarco
Published: December 2015

Background/Aim: Traditional risk factors, like impaired transmitral flow in diastolic filling [vortex formation time (VFT) as echocardiographic parameter], contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Moreover, we observed that acetylcholinesterase inhibitors provide a significant cardioprotection. We assessed the pathogenetic role of VFT as early cardiovascular risk factor in 23 AD patients and 24 controls. Results: The results showed no statistical difference between the two groups, but the VFT values were significantly lower in nontreated AD patients, and higher value were observed in AD patients treated with anticholinesterases. Conclusions: The results support the beneficial effects of anticholinesterases on the cardiovascular system of AD patients. Thus, the transition to evidence-based medicine and an in vivo model of cardiomyocytes might strengthen these results.
Inhibition of Sodium-GlucoseCotransporter 2 with Dapagliflozin in Han: SPRD Rats with Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Rodriguez Daniel , Kapoor Sarika , Edenhofer Ilka , Segerer Stephan , Riwanto Meliana , Kipar Anja , Yang Ming , Mei Changlin , Wüthrich Rudolf P.
Published: December 2015

Background/Aims: Dapagliflozin (DAPA) is a selective inhibitor of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) which induces glucosuria and osmotic diuresis. The therapeutic effect of DAPA in progressing stages of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) has not been studied. Methods: We examined the effect of DAPA in the Han: SPRD rat model of PKD. DAPA (10 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (VEH) was administered orally via gavage to 5 week old male Han: SPRD (Cy/+) or control (+/+) rats (n = 8-9 per group) for 5 weeks. Blood and urine were collected at baseline and after 2.5 and 5 weeks of treatment to assess renal function and albuminuria. At the end of the treatment, rats were sacrificed and kidneys were excised for histological analysis. Results: After 5 weeks of treatment, DAPA-treated Cy/+ and +/+ rats exhibited significantly higher glucosuria, water intake and urine output than VEH-treated rats. DAPA-treated Cy/+ rats also exhibited significantly higher clearances for creatinine and BUN and less albuminuria than VEH-treated Cy/+ rats. DAPA treatment for 5 weeks resulted in a significant increase of the kidney weight in Cy/+ rats but no change in cyst growth. The degree of tubular epithelial cell proliferation, macrophage infiltration and interstitial fibrosis was also similar in DAPA-and VEH-treated Cy/+ rats. Conclusion: The induction of glucosuria with the SGLT2-specific inhibitor DAPA was associated with improved renal function and decreased albuminuria, but had no effect on cyst growth in Cy/+ rats. Overall the beneficial effects of DAPA in this PKD model were weaker than the previously described effects of the combined SGLT1/2 inhibitor phlorizin.
Production and Perception of the /i/-/I/ Vowel Contrast: The Case of L2-Dominant Early Learners of English
Authors: Casillas Joseph
Published: December 2015

The present study explored the production and perception of the /i/-/I/ vowel contrast in second language (L2)-dominant early learners of American English who no longer fluently speak their first language (L1, Spanish). The production task analyzed the extent to which the early learner group differed from controls (native English speakers and L1-Spanish late-onset learners of English) with regard to duration and spectral centroids. The perception experiment examined how these early learners classified resynthesized stimuli drawn from the /i/-/I/ contrast using distinct acoustic cues - spectral and temporal - in a 2-alternative forced choice identification task. The first experiment revealed that the early learners produced the contrast in a native-like manner in terms of the spectral envelope and duration use. The second experiment found that early learners differed from both control groups in how they categorized the /i/-/I/ continua based on spectrum and duration, and the extent to which they rely on these two cues. The effects of linguistic experience on L2 phonetic behavior are discussed.
How Effective Are Percutaneous Liver-Directed Therapies in Patients with Non-Colorectal Liver Metastases?
Authors: Vogl Thomas J. , Emam Ahmed , Naguib Nagy N. , Eichler Katrin , Zangos Stefan
Published: December 2015

Background: The purpose of this review is to demonstrate the clinical indications, technical developments, and outcome of liver-directed therapies in interventional oncology of non-colorectal liver metastases. Methods: Liver-directed therapies are classified into vascular transarterial techniques such as chemoperfusion (TACP), chemoembolization (TACE), radioembolization (selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT)), and chemosaturation, as well as thermal ablation techniques like microwave ablation (MWA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT), cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation (IRE). The authors searched the database PubMed using the following terms: ‘image-guided tumor ablation', ‘thermal ablation therapies', ‘liver metastases of uveal melanoma', ‘neuroendocrine carcinoma', ‘breast cancer', and ‘non-colorectal liver metastases'. Results: Various combinations of the above-mentioned therapy protocols are possible. In neuroendocrine carcinomas, oligonodular liver metastases are treated successfully via thermal ablation like RFA, LITT, or MWA, and diffuse involvement via TACE or SIRT. Although liver involvement in breast cancer is a systemic disease, non-responding nodular metastases can be controlled via RFA or LITT. In ocular or cutaneous melanoma, thermal ablation is rarely considered as an interventional treatment option, as opposed to TACE, SIRT, or chemosaturation. Rarely liver-directed therapies are used in pancreatic cancer, most likely due to problems such as biliary digestive communications after surgery and the risk of infections. Rare indications for thermal ablation are liver metastases of other primary cancers like non-small cell lung, gastric, and ovarian cancer. Conclusion: Interventional oncological techniques play a role in patients with liver-dominant metastases.
Heart Rate Assessment Immediately after Birth
Authors: Phillipos Emily , Solevåg Anne Lee , Pichler Gerhard , Aziz Khalid , van Os Sylvia , O''Reilly Megan , Cheung Po-Yin , Schmölzer Georg M.
Published: December 2015

Background: Heart rate assessment immediately after birth in newborn infants is critical to the correct guidance of resuscitation efforts. There are disagreements as to the best method to measure heart rate. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess different methods of heart rate assessment in newborn infants at birth to determine the fastest and most accurate method. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar were systematically searched using the following terms: ‘infant', ‘heart rate', ‘monitoring', ‘delivery room', ‘resuscitation', ‘stethoscope', ‘auscultation', ‘palpation', ‘pulse oximetry', ‘electrocardiogram', ‘Doppler ultrasound', ‘photoplethysmography' and ‘wearable sensors'. Results: Eighteen studies were identified that described various methods of heart rate assessment in newborn infants immediately after birth. Studies examining auscultation, palpation, pulse oximetry, electrocardiography and Doppler ultrasound as ways to measure heart rate were included. Heart rate measurements by pulse oximetry are superior to auscultation and palpation, but there is contradictory evidence about its accuracy depending on whether the sensor is connected to the infant or the oximeter first. Several studies indicate that electrocardiogram provides a reliable heart rate faster than pulse oximetry. Doppler ultrasound shows potential for clinical use, however future evidence is needed to support this conclusion. Conclusion: Heart rate assessment is important and there are many measurement methods. The accuracy of routinely applied methods varies, with palpation and auscultation being the least accurate and electrocardiogram being the most accurate. More research is needed on Doppler ultrasound before its clinical use.
Reactive Oxygen Species Mediate TNF-⍺ Cytotoxic Effects in the Multidrug-Resistant Breast Cancer Cell Line MCF-7/MX
Authors: Ghandadi Morteza , Behravan Javad , Abnous Khalil , Mosaffa Fatemeh
Published: December 2015

Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are not only harmful by-products of the cellular metabolism but also essential components of cell signaling, contributing to various physiologic features including cytokine and growth factor signaling. Here, we examined the role of ROS in the cytotoxic effects of tumor necrosis factor-⍺ (TNF-⍺) in MCF-7 cells and their drug-resistant counterparts, MCF-7/MX cells. Materials and Methods: ROS levels were evaluated following TNF-⍺ exposure using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCF-DA) as fluorescent probe, and the TNF-⍺ cytotoxic effects were examined using the dimethylthiazolyl-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results: TNF-⍺ led to ROS accumulation only in MCF-7/MX and not in MCF-7 cells. The role of ROS in the cytotoxic effects of TNF-⍺ was further evaluated by inhibition of ROS accumulation in MCF-7/MX cells and by induction of ROS generation in MCF-7 cells along with TNF-⍺ treatment. ROS accumulation sensitized the MCF-7 cells to the cytotoxic effects of TNF-⍺ while inhibition of ROS accumulation attenuated the cytotoxic effects of TNF-⍺ in MCF-7/MX cells. Following TNF-⍺ treatment, the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and catalase) were evaluated in both cell lines. The results of the enzyme assays revealed that superoxide dismutase activity was enhanced in MCF-7 but not in MCF-7/MX cells. Conclusions: ROS accumulation in MCF-7/MX cells may be involved in the higher cytotoxic effects of TNF-⍺ in the MCF-7/MX cell line.
Specific Features of Dumping Syndrome after Various Types of Gastrectomy as Assessed by a Newly Developed Integrated Questionnaire, the PGSAS-45
Authors: Tanizawa Yutaka , Tanabe Kazuaki , Kawahira Hiroshi , Fujita Junya , Takiguchi Nobuhiro , Takahashi Masazumi , Ito Yuichi , Mitsumori Norio , Namikawa Tsutomu , Oshio Atsushi , Nakada Koji ,   the Japan Postgastrectomy Syndrome Working Party
Published: December 2015

Aim: Dumping syndrome is a well-known adverse outcome after gastrectomy, but the precise clinical features have not been described. The aim of this study was to examine global aspects of dumping syndrome and to explore factors affecting the intensity of dumping syndrome in a large cohort using a newly developed integrated questionnaire, the Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)-45. Methods: Eligible questionnaires retrieved from 2,368 patients after 6 types of gastrectomy were analyzed. The incidence, intensity and number of symptoms of early general, early abdominal and late dumping syndrome were examined across various types of gastrectomy, and clinical factors affecting the intensity of each category of dumping syndrome were identified by multiple regression analysis. Results: Dumping syndromes occurred most frequently and strongly in patients who underwent total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y (TGRY), followed by proximal gastrectomy (PG), distal gastrectomy with Billroth-I, distal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y, pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG) and local resection (LR), in that order. Significant positive correlations among different categories of dumping syndromes were observed. TGRY, female sex, younger age, division of the celiac branch of the vagus nerve, PG and shorter postoperative period were independently related to worse dumping syndrome. Conclusions: Dumping syndromes were most common after TGRY and least common after PPG and LR among the various gastrectomy procedures. Type of gastrectomy and several clinical factors were related to the intensity of dumping syndrome. PGSAS-45 could offer a useful tool for evaluating dumping syndrome after gastrectomy.
Unexpected Complications Following Adult Medical Male Circumcision Using the PrePex Device
Authors: Odoyo-June Elijah , Feldblum Paul J. , Fischer Shelly , Bailey Robert C. , Obiero Walter , Hart Catherine , Veena Valentine , Combes Stephanie , Cherutich Peter
Published: December 2015

Introduction: In this study, we describe and depict unexpected sequelae of adult medical male circumcision (MMC) using the PrePex device. Materials and Methods: The PrePex system is an elastic compression device for adult MMC. The device is well studied, has been pre-qualified by the World Health Organization (WHO), and its use is being scaled-up in African countries targeted by WHO. We conducted a PrePex implementation study in routine service delivery among 427 men in the age range of 18-49 in western Kenya. We captured penile photographs to create a record of adverse events (AEs) and to monitor healing. Several unexpected AEs ensued, including some that have not been reported in other PrePex studies. We describe and depict those unexpected complications and resulting treatments to alert circumcision providers in the relevant areas. Results: We observed 5 device displacements (1.2%); 3 cases of early sloughing of foreskin tissue (0.7%) among men with long foreskins; 2 cases of a long foreskin obstructing urine flow, as it became dry and necrotic (0.5%); and 2 cases of insufficient foreskin removal caused by invagination for which surgical completion was necessary (0.5%). All of the participants healed completely by day 42 post-circumcision or shortly thereafter. Conclusion: The potential for these complications should be incorporated into PrePex training programs. Integration of devices into MMC programs in medically underserved areas requires the availability of prompt surgical intervention for some sequelae, particularly displacement events.
Outpatient Management of Patients with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) by Hematologists 1995-2014
Authors: Weide Rudolf , Feiten Stefan , Friesenhahn Vera , Heymanns Jochen , Kleboth Kristina , Thomalla Jörg , van Roye Christoph , Köppler Hubert
Published: December 2015

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment reality for outpatients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) managed by hematologists in routine care. Patients and Methods: All patients with ITP diagnosed between 06/1995 and 12/2014 in a community-based oncology group practice in Germany were retrospectively analyzed. Results: 422 patients with a median age of 55 years (range 7-91 years) were evaluated. 57% were female and 43% male. Only 198 (47%) patients needed therapy. First-line therapy (n = 198) consisted of steroids in 81%, intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) in 12%, and IVIG plus steroids in 6%. Patients received a median of 2 (range 1-10) lines of therapy. The most frequently used treatment modalities were steroids in 93%, IVIG in 55%, splenectomy in 21%, and other immunosuppressive agents (OISA) in 23% of patients. Rituximab and thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TRAs) were used in 10% and 6% only. 9 (2%) patients needed hospitalization due to bleeding complications. 72% of patients achieved a durable remission after their last line of therapy. 1 (0.2%) patient died due to bleeding complications. Conclusion: The treatment modalities most frequently used are steroids, immunoglobulins, splenectomy, and OISA. Rituximab and TRAs are only used infrequently. 72% of ITP patients achieve durable remissions. The rate of hospital admissions due to bleeding complications and the ITP-related mortality are low. The majority of ITP patients can be safely managed by hematologists on an outpatient basis.
Combined Central Retinal Artery and Vein Occlusion Associated with Factor V Leiden Mutation and Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen
Authors: Lemos José Alberto , Teixeira Carla , Carvalho Rui , Fernandes Tiago
Published: December 2015

Background: Combined central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is an uncommon retinal vascular disease which causes sudden visual acuity loss and is associated with poor prognosis and the development of severe complications. We report a very rare case of combined CRAO and CRVO in a patient with factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation (only 3 cases published). To our knowledge, this is the first case of combined CRAO and CRVO treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Case and Results: A 49-year-old woman presented with complaints of sudden loss of vision in her left eye (LE), with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 1/20. A complete ophthalmic evaluation with fundus angiography showed combined CRAO and CRVO. The patient was urgently treated with HBOT (she completed a total of 9 sessions in 7 days), with marked visual acuity and angiographic improvement (BCVA of 10/10). Forty-five days later, she developed a new LE CRVO, and BCVA decreased to 5/10 and later to <1/20 because of significant macular edema. A detailed investigation showed an abnormal resistance to activated protein C, and a genetic study showed homozygosity for FVL mutation. The patient was submitted to 3 monthly injections of 1.25 mg bevacizumab. After 10 months, the patient is in a stable condition with BCVA of 6/10. Conclusions: Combined CRAO and CRVO in young adults should be investigated thoroughly for embolic sources, thrombophilic disorders and local ocular conditions. This is the first case of this severe disease that was treated with HBOT, and the visual result was very good.
Aortic Elastic Properties and Myocardial Performance Index Are Impaired in Patients with Lichen Planus
Authors: Koseoglu C. , Erdogan M. , Ertem A.G. , Koseoglu G. , Akoglu G. , Aktas A. , Ozdemir E. , Kurmus O. , Durmaz T. , Keles T. , Bozkurt E.
Published: December 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the elastic properties of the aorta and the myocardial performance index of the left ventricle (LV) in patients with lichen planus (LP). Subjects and Methods: A total of 54 patients with LP and 50 controls were enrolled in the study. The 2 groups were well-matched regarding age, gender, body mass index, any smoking history, diabetes mellitus and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP). The echocardiographic examination was performed on the study subjects and the controls. Aortic elasticity parameters and the myocardial performance index of the LV were calculated. The Student t test, the χ2 test and multiple linear regression were used for the statistical analysis. Results: Aortic strain (AS, 4.77 ± 1.81 vs. 8.95 ± 2.22; p < 0.001) and aortic distensibility (AD, 0.25 ± 0.009 vs. 0.42 ± 0.120; p < 0.001) were significantly lower, and aortic stiffness index β (ASIβ, 3.65 ± 1.03 vs. 2.70 ± 0.91; p < 0.001) was significantly higher in the LP group than in the controls. The myocardial performance index (Tei index) was significantly higher in the LP group than in the control group (p = 0.001). The duration of the LP was negatively correlated with AS (r = -0.364, p < 0.001) and AD (r = -0.279, p = 0.006), and positively correlated with the Tei index (r = 0.324, p = 0.001) and ASIβ (r = 0.364, p < 0.001). After adjustment for relevant confounders (age, male gender, smoking, SBP, DBP, diabetes mellitus and low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), LP and its duration were still associated with AS, AD and ASIβ. Conclusion: In this study, AS and AD were lower and ASIβ and myocardial performance index higher in LP patients than in controls.
Telenovela e Política: perspectivas e modos de abordagem
Authors: Marques Angela Cristina Salgueiro
Published: December 2015

O artigo pretende apresentar, de maneira não exaustiva, quatro perspectivas teórico-metodológicas para o estudo das relações entre telenovela e política, ressaltando situações em que a narrativa ficcional: a) é utilizada como constituidora do Cenário de Representação da Política; b) é utilizada para dar forma a escândalos políticos; c) traz temas polêmicos e acontecimentos da política cotidiana e institucional, gerando um debate público ampliado; d) oferece valores e padrões de conduta moral que permitem aos telespectadores posicionar seus dramas pessoais cotidianos em termos que fazem sentido coletivamente. Ao final propõe-se avaliar como a narrativa ficcional da telenovela apresenta-se, sobretudo, como universo imagético e argumentativo com potência política de promover desidentificação e revelar cenas polêmicas de enunciação.

 

 

 
Argentina Sono Film e Cinédia: uma comparação
Authors: Sá Neto Arthur Autran Franco de
Published: December 2015

O artigo compara a atuação da Cinédia, produtora cinematográfica brasileira fundada em 1930 por Adhemar Gonzaga, com a da Argentina Sono Film, criada em 1933 por Ángel Mentasti. O objetivo da comparação é descrever e analisar as estratégias de produção das empresas e a relação com o mercado nos primeiros anos de funcionamento de ambas, bem como as principais características dos filmes realizados no período. O artigo também descreve e coteja parte da trajetória de vida de Gonzaga e Mentasti.
Então entra, porque continuo te vendo1: ambiguidade e melancolia em La ciudad de los fotografos
Authors: Silva Denise Tavares da
Published: December 2015

Desde que compreenderam a força da imagem na reconstrução da memória, ativistas e militantes de esquerda se valeram, não poucas vezes, da máquina fotográfica como "arma" essencial para que a barbárie não fosse soterrada durante as últimas ditaduras militares da América Latina. São imagens que, potentes na simbologia icônica que encerram, atestam uma realidade que, enquadrada, aconteceu. Assim é em La ciudad de los fotografos (A cidade dos fotógrafos, 2006), documentário dirigido por Sebastián Moreno, cuja primeira camada busca resgatar o papel essencial que o registro fotográfico teve na vida do diretor e na resistência a Pinochet. No entanto, algo, aos poucos,vai se configurando, fraturando a constituição de uma memória já definida e trazendo à tona as ambiguidades que também permeiam o território dos sobreviventes.
A estética mundializada e a questão da crítica
Authors: Arthuso Raul
Published: December 2015

O livro Audiovisual e mundialização: televisão e cinema aborda a relação entre cinema e outras mídias na contemporaneidade, com especial ênfase na influência da publicidade no cinema brasileiro contemporâneo. O autor busca questionar a crítica à estética publicitária e televisiva de diversos filmes brasileiros recentes. A resenha aponta para a intervenção do livro no debate cultural, mas ressalta as fragilidades da análise crítica das obras e como isso se reflete na própria contestação crítica de Muanis.
Assassinatos por encomenda: a sicaresca no cinema colombiano
Authors: Bragança Mauricio De
Published: December 2015

Nos anos 1990, surgiu uma narrativa literária na Colômbia que trazia como protagonista o matador de aluguel, conhecido como sicário na América Hispânica. Centradas nos crimes relacionados ao narcotráfico que tomavam conta do país, estas narrativas reivindicavam uma apropriação literária da realidade social, política e econômica, ao abordar o mundo do crime decorrente do tráfico de drogas. Neste artigo, discutiremos os personagens dos matadores de aluguel a partir dos filmes La virgen de los sicarios (Barbet Schroeder, Col/Fra/Esp, 2000) e Rosario Tijeras (Emilio Maillé, Col/Mex/Esp/Bra, 2005). O sicario problematiza o esgotamento dos horizontes morais e legais ao tratar do tema da violência, abrindo a possibilidade de se pensar o mundo do crime por uma perspectiva cultural, a partir de um narcoimaginário e de políticas de reconhecimento coletivo no âmbito social.
Angiotensinogen Exerts Effects Independent of Angiotensin II
Authors: Lu Hong , Wu Congqing , Howatt Deborah A. , Balakrishnan Anju , Moorleghen Jessica J. , Chen Xiaofeng , Zhao Mingming , Graham Mark J. , Mullick Adam E. , Crooke Rosanne M. , Feldman David L. , Cassis Lisa A. , Vander Kooi Craig W. , Daugherty Alan
Published: December 2015

Objective—

This study determined whether angiotensinogen (AGT) has angiotensin II–independent effects using multiple genetic and pharmacological manipulations.

Approach and Results—

All study mice were in low-density lipoprotein receptor −/− background and fed a saturated fat–enriched diet. In mice with floxed alleles and a neomycin cassette in intron 2 of the AGT gene (hypoAGT mice), plasma AGT concentrations were >90% lower compared with their wild-type littermates. HypoAGT mice had lower systolic blood pressure, less atherosclerosis, and diminished body weight gain and liver steatosis. Low plasma AGT concentrations and all phenotypes were recapitulated in mice with hepatocyte-specific deficiency of AGT or pharmacological inhibition of AGT by antisense oligonucleotide administration. In contrast, inhibition of AGT cleavage by a renin inhibitor, aliskiren, failed to alter body weight gain and liver steatosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor −/− mice. In mice with established adiposity, administration of AGT antisense oligonucleotide versus aliskiren led to equivalent reductions of systolic blood pressure and atherosclerosis. AGT antisense oligonucleotide administration ceased body weight gain and further reduced body weight, whereas aliskiren did not affect body weight gain during continuous saturated fat–enriched diet feeding. Structural comparisons of AGT proteins in zebrafish, mouse, rat, and human revealed 4 highly conserved sequences within the des(angiotensin I)AGT domain. des(angiotensin I)AGT, through adeno-associated viral infection in hepatocyte-specific AGT-deficient mice, increased body weight gain and liver steatosis, but did not affect atherosclerosis.

Conclusions—

AGT contributes to body weight gain and liver steatosis through functions of the des(angiotensin I)AGT domain, which are independent of angiotensin II production.
Carboxyl-Terminal Cleavage of Apolipoprotein A-I by Human Mast Cell Chymase Impairs Its Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Authors: Nguyen Su Duy , Maaninka Katariina , Lappalainen Jani , Nurmi Katariina , Metso Jari , Öörni Katariina , Navab Mohamad , Fogelman Alan M. , Jauhiainen Matti , Lee-Rueckert Miriam , Kovanen Petri T.
Published: December 2015

Objective—

Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) has been shown to possess several atheroprotective functions, including inhibition of inflammation. Protease-secreting activated mast cells reside in human atherosclerotic lesions. Here we investigated the effects of the neutral proteases released by activated mast cells on the anti-inflammatory properties of apoA-I.

Approach and Results—

Activation of human mast cells triggered the release of granule-associated proteases chymase, tryptase, cathepsin G, carboxypeptidase A, and granzyme B. Among them, chymase cleaved apoA-I with the greatest efficiency and generated C-terminally truncated apoA-I, which failed to bind with high affinity to human coronary artery endothelial cells. In tumor necrosis factor-α–activated human coronary artery endothelial cells, the chymase-cleaved apoA-I was unable to suppress nuclear factor-κB–dependent upregulation of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and to block THP-1 cells from adhering to and transmigrating across the human coronary artery endothelial cells. Chymase-cleaved apoA-I also had an impaired ability to downregulate the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and interleukin-8 in lipopolysaccharide-activated GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor)– and M-CSF (macrophage colony-stimulating factor)–differentiated human macrophage foam cells and to inhibit reactive oxygen species formation in PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate)–activated human neutrophils. Importantly, chymase-cleaved apoA-I showed reduced ability to inhibit lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in vivo in mice. Treatment with chymase blocked the ability of the apoA-I mimetic peptide L-4F, but not of the protease-resistant D-4F, to inhibit proinflammatory gene expression in activated human coronary artery endothelial cells and macrophage foam cells and to prevent reactive oxygen species formation in activated neutrophils.

Conclusions—

The findings identify C-terminal cleavage of apoA-I by human mast cell chymase as a novel mechanism leading to loss of its anti-inflammatory functions. When targeting inflamed protease-rich atherosclerotic lesions with apoA-I, infusions of protease-resistant apoA-I might be the appropriate approach.
Extended-Release Niacin/Laropiprant Improves Overall Efficacy of Postprandial Reverse Cholesterol Transport
Authors: El Khoury Petra , Waldmann Elisa , Huby Thierry , Gall Julie , Couvert Philippe , Lacorte Jean-Marc , Chapman John , Frisdal Eric , Lesnik Philippe , Parhofer Klaus G. , Le Goff Wilfried , Guerin Maryse
Published: December 2015

Objectives—

Postprandial atherogenic lipoproteins, characterizing high-risk patients, correlate positively with cardiovascular events. Although the effect of niacin on fasting lipids is well established, its impact on atheroprotective reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) pathway and on functional features of circulating lipoproteins during the postprandial state remains indeterminate.

Approach and Results—

We evaluated RCT pathway during postprandial phase in dyslipidemic patients displaying a low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol phenotype. Ten subjects on stable statin therapy received 1 g/20 mg extended-release niacin/laropiprant (ERN/LRPT) for 4 weeks followed by 2 g/40 mg ERN/LRPT for additional 8 weeks. At each experimental period, postprandial hypertriglyceridemia and major steps of RCT, including cholesterol efflux from human macrophages, cholesteryl ester transfer protein–mediated cholesteryl ester transfer, and hepatic HDL-cholesteryl ester selective uptake were evaluated. Equally, the capacity of postprandial HDL particles isolated from patients before and after ERN/LRPT treatment to mediate RCT to feces was evaluated in vivo in human apolipoprotein B/cholesteryl ester transfer protein double transgenic mouse model. Compared with baseline, ERN/LRPT significantly reduced postprandial hypertriglyceridemia (incremental area under the curve-triglyceride: −53%;
P
=0.02). Postprandial increase in endogenous plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity was completely abolished after ERN/LRPT treatment. Despite a slight reduction in plasma cholesterol efflux capacity from human THP-1 macrophages, evaluation of global RCT efficacy by combining both ex vivo and in vivo approaches indicate that postprandial HDL particles formed under ERN/LRPT therapy displayed a greater capacity for HDL-mediated RCT to feces.

Conclusions—

ERN/LRPT treatment efficiently attenuates atherogenic postprandial lipemia and stimulates HDL-mediated cholesterol return to the liver and elimination into feces during postprandial phase, thus maintaining an efficient removal of cholesterol from the body.
Effects of Epicardial and Endocardial Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Coronary Flow: Insights From Wave Intensity Analysis
Authors: Claridge Simon , Chen Zhong , Jackson Tom , De Silva Kalpa , Behar Jonathan , Sohal Manav , Webb Jessica , Hyde Eoin , Lumley Matthew , Asrress Kal , Williams Rupert , Bostock Julian , Ali Motin , Gill Jaswinder , O'Neill Mark , Razavi Reza , Niederer Steve , Perera Divaka , Rinaldi Christopher Aldo
Published: December 2015

Background

The increase in global coronary flow seen with conventional biventricular pacing is mediated by an increase in the dominant backward expansion wave (
BEW
). Little is known about the determinants of flow in the left‐sided epicardial coronary arteries beyond this or the effect of endocardial pacing stimulation on coronary physiology.

Methods and Results

Eleven patients with a chronically implanted biventricular pacemaker underwent an acute hemodynamic and electrophysiological study. Five of 11 patients also took part in a left ventricular endocardial pacing protocol at the same time. Conventional biventricular pacing, delivered epicardially from the coronary sinus, resulted in a 9% increase in flow (average peak velocity) in the left anterior descending artery (LAD), mediated by a 13% increase in the area under the
BEW
(
P
=0.004). Endocardial pacing resulted in a 27% increase in LAD flow, mediated by a 112% increase in the area under the forward compression wave (FCW) and a 43% increase in the area under the
BEW
(
P
=0.048 and
P
=0.036, respectively). There were no significant changes in circumflex parameters. Conventional biventricular pacing resulted in homogenization of timing of coronary flow compared with baseline (mean difference in time to peak in the LAD versus circumflex artery: FCW 39 ms [baseline] versus 3 ms [conventional biventricular pacing],
P
=0.008;
BEW
47 ms [baseline] versus 8 ms [conventional biventricular pacing],
P
=0.004).

Conclusions

Epicardial and endocardial pacing result in increased coronary flow in the left anterior descending artery and homogenization of the timing of waves that determine flow in the LAD and the circumflex artery. The increase in both the FCW and the
BEW
with endocardial pacing may be the result of a more physiological activation pattern than that of epicardial pacing, which resulted in an increase of only the
BEW
.
Test Accuracy of Informant-Based Cognitive Screening Tests for Diagnosis of Dementia and Multidomain Cognitive Impairment in Stroke
Authors: McGovern Aine , Pendlebury Sarah T. , Mishra Nishant K. , Fan Yuhua , Quinn Terence J.
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Poststroke cognitive assessment can be performed using standardized questionnaires designed for family or care givers. We sought to describe the test accuracy of such informant-based assessments for diagnosis of dementia/multidomain cognitive impairment in stroke.

Methods—

We performed a systematic review using a sensitive search strategy across multidisciplinary electronic databases. We created summary test accuracy metrics and described reporting and quality using STARDdem and Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) tools, respectively.

Results—

From 1432 titles, we included 11 studies. Ten papers used the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE). Four studies described IQCODE for diagnosis of poststroke dementia (n=1197); summary sensitivity: 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.60–0.93); summary specificty: 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.64–0.93). Five studies described IQCODE as tool for predicting future dementia (n=837); summary sensitivity: 0.60 (95% confidence interval, 0.32–0.83); summary specificity: 0.97 (95% confidence interval, 0.70–1.00). All papers had issues with at least 1 aspect of study reporting or quality.

Conclusions—

There is a limited literature on informant cognitive assessments in stroke. IQCODE as a diagnostic tool has test properties similar to other screening tools, IQCODE as a prognostic tool is specific but insensitive. We found no papers describing test accuracy of informant tests for diagnosis of prestroke cognitive decline, few papers on poststroke dementia and all included papers had issues with potential bias.
An Immersive Virtual Sailing on the 18th-Century Ship Le Boullongne
Authors: Barreau Jean-Baptiste , Nouviale Florian , Gaugne Ronan , Bernard Yann , Llinares Sylviane , Gouranton Valérie
Published: December 2015

The work presented in this article is the result of collaboration between historians and computer scientists whose goal was the digital reconstitution of Le Boullongne, an 18th-century merchant ship of La Compagnie des Indes orientales.1 This ship has now disappeared and its reconstitution aims at understanding onboard living conditions. Three distinct research laboratories have participated in this project so far. The first, a department of naval history, worked on historical documents, especially the logbooks describing all traveling events of the ship. The second, a research laboratory in archaeology, archaeoscience, and history, proposed a 3D model of the ship based on the original naval architectural plans. The third, a computer science research laboratory, implemented a simulation of the ship sailing in virtual reality.
Using Patient Avatars to Promote Health Data Sharing Applications: Perspectives and Regulatory Challenges
Authors: Dahi Alan , Forgó Nikolaus , Jensen Sarah , Stauch Marc
Published: December 2015

The potential of ict to address problems in modern healthcare is considerable, and an ict-driven revolution in healthcare appears imminent. Such developments may be viewed largely in positive terms. Thus they should result in enhanced treatment and care options, empowering patients — including by permitting greater self-management of illness outside hospital, while offering economic benefits and costs savings over traditional healthcare provision. However, the new possibilities also present manifold risks, such as of data breaches, encroachments on subject autonomy, as well as of other harms. This article considers some of the key regulatory challenges against the background of the progress of the current eu Commission-sponsored ‘MyHealthAvatar’ project.
On Myzomorphus and M. scutellatus (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae)
Authors: SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , GALILEO MARIA HELENA M.
Published: December 2015

The authorship of Myzomorphus is attributed to Sallé (1850) and, consequently, its type species is Myzomorphus scutellatus Sallé, 1850. The year of publication of the work by Sallé is changed from 1849 to 1850. Comments on the syntypes of M. scutellatus are provided.
Areas of endemism in the Neotropical region based on the geographical distribution of Tabanomorpha (Diptera: Brachycera)
Authors: KLASSA BRUNA , SANTOS CHARLES MORPHY D.
Published: December 2015

We aim to investigate the geographical distribution patterns of the infraorder Tabanomorpha and to delimit primary hypotheses of areas of endemism for the group in the Neotropical region. The results were compared to areas of endemism proposed in previous works for other taxa and particularly with the recent Morrone’s regionalisation proposal. An endemicity analysis was performed with the ndm/vndm algorithm using 3826 occurrence records for 1361 species of Tabanomorpha. Areas of endemism were established based on a grid size of 6º and consensus cut-off of 42%. We identified 13 areas of endemism comprising five main components: Northern South America (NSA), Southeastern South America (SESA), Central America (CA), Brazilian Savannah (BS), Central Andes (CAn). In a broad sense, the main areas of endemism recovered for Tabanomorpha are congruent with the recent proposals of regionalisation for the Neotropical region.
Emotional Perception of Music in Children With Bimodal Fitting and Unilateral Cochlear Implant
Authors: Shirvani Sareh , Jafari Zahra , Motasaddi Zarandi Masoud , Jalaie Shohre , Mohagheghi Hamed , Tale Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2015

Objective:

Biological, structural, and acoustical constraints faced by cochlear implant (CI) users can alter the perception of music. Bimodal fitting not only provides bilateral hearing but can also improve auditory skills. This study was conducted to assess the impact of this amplification style on the emotional perception of music among children with hearing loss (HL).

Methods:

Twenty-five children with congenital severe to profound HL and unilateral CIs, 20 children with bimodal fitting, and 30 children with normal hearing participated in this study. Their emotional perceptions of music were measured using a method where children indicated happy or sad feelings induced by music by pointing to pictures of faces showing these emotions.

Results:

Children with bimodal fitting obtained significantly higher mean scores than children with unilateral CIs for both happy and sad music items and in overall test scores ( P < .001). Both groups with HL obtained significantly lower scores than children with normal hearing ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

Bimodal fitting results in a better emotional perception of music compared to unilateral CI. Given the influence of music in neurological and linguistic development and social interactions, it is important to evaluate the possible benefits of bimodal fitting prescriptions for individuals with unilateral CIs.