bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Adaptive Window Size Selection Method for Improving Spectrogram Visualization
Authors: Nisar Shibli , Khan Omar Usman , Tariq Muhammad
Published: August 2016

Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) is an important technique for the time-frequency analysis of a time varying signal. The basic approach behind it involves the application of a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) to a signal multiplied with an appropriate window function with fixed resolution. The selection of an appropriate window size is difficult when no background information about the input signal is known. In this paper, a novel empirical model is proposed that adaptively adjusts the window size for a narrow band-signal using spectrum sensing technique. For wide-band signals, where a fixed time-frequency resolution is undesirable, the approach adapts the constant Q transform (CQT). Unlike the STFT, the CQT provides a varying time-frequency resolution. This results in a high spectral resolution at low frequencies and high temporal resolution at high frequencies. In this paper, a simple but effective switching framework is provided between both STFT and CQT. The proposed method also allows for the dynamic construction of a filter bank according to user-defined parameters. This helps in reducing redundant entries in the filter bank. Results obtained from the proposed method not only improve the spectrogram visualization but also reduce the computation cost and achieves 87.71% of the appropriate window length selection.
Ergodicity Space for Measure-Preserving Transformations
Authors: Rahimi M. , Assari A.
Published: August 2016

We introduce the concept of ergodicity space of a measure-preserving transformation and will present some of its properties as an algebraic weight for measuring the size of the ergodicity of a measure-preserving transformation. We will also prove the invariance of the ergodicity space under conjugacy of dynamical systems.
A Patient with a Right Atrium Mass and Congenital Heart Disease: A Challenging Diagnosis of a Stubborn Disease
Authors: Wang Wenyan , Long Huaicong , Zhao Zhiying
Published: August 2016

Cardiac lymphoma is extremely rare. An intracardiac mass has rarely been reported to be the cardiac involvement of extranodal lymphoma. It is difficult to establish a final diagnosis via routine examinations. The ability of an echocardiogram to characterize tissue is limited; systemic (18)F-FDG PET/CT scans provide important information for both staging and response assessment in patients with lymphoma. A 68-year-old Chinese male with a second patent foramen ovale (PFO) and an interventricular septal defect presented at our institute with persistent fever, shortness of breath, repeated paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) attack, and rapidly progressing superior vena cava syndrome. The patient also presented with a mass located in the upper right atrium and superior vena cava which was detected by echocardiogram. (18)F-FDG PET/CT scan revealed a pathological increase of (18)F-FDG uptake in the atrial mass and several other extracardiac lymph nodes. Lymph node biopsy was positive for large B-cell lymphoma. Immunohistochemistry revealed intense and diffuse expression of CD20, CD10, BCL-6, and Ki-67. The patient died without any chemotherapy 18 days after hospital discharge.
Lyme Disease Presenting with Multiple Cranial Nerve Deficits: Report of a Case
Authors: Chaturvedi Abhishek , Baker Keith , Jeanmonod Donald , Jeanmonod Rebecca
Published: August 2016

Lyme disease is a tick-transmitted multisystem inflammatory disease caused by the spirocheteBorrelia burgdorferi. With more than 25,000 CDC reported cases annually, it has become the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. We report a case of 38-year-old man with Lyme disease presenting with simultaneous palsy of 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, and 10th cranial nerves.
Kidney Expression of Toll Like Receptors in Lupus Nephritis: Quantification and Clinicopathological Correlations
Authors: Conti Fabrizio , Spinelli Francesca Romana , Truglia Simona , Miranda Francesca , Alessandri Cristiano , Ceccarelli Fulvia , Bombardieri Michele , Giannakakis Konstantinos , Valesini Guido
Published: August 2016

Objective. The study aimed at locating and quantifying Toll Like Receptor (TLR) 3, 7, 8, and 9 expression in kidney of patients with lupus nephritis (LN) and correlating them with clinicopathological features.Methods. Kidney sections from 26 LN patients and 4 controls were analyzed by immunohistochemistry using anti-human TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9 polyclonal antibodies; the number of TLR-positive nuclei/mm2was evaluated on digitalized images.Results. Compared to controls, LN showed a significantly higher amount of glomerular and tubulointerstitial TLR9 (p=0.003andp=0.007), whole and tubulointerstitial TLR3 (p=0.026andp=0.031), and a higher tubulointerstitial TLR7 (p=0.022). TLR9 positively correlated with activity index (p=0.0063) and tubular TLR7 with chronicity index (p=0.026). TLR9 positively correlated with Renal-SLEDAI (p=0.01).Conclusions. This is the first study quantifying kidney expressions of TLRs in LN patients; the results show an overexpression of TLR3, TLR7, and TLR9 and demonstrate a correlation with clinicopathological indices supporting a role of these mediators in the pathogenesis of LN.
Effects of Target Size and Test Distance on Stereoacuity
Authors: Iwata Yo , Fujimura Fusako , Handa Tomoya , Shoji Nobuyuki , Ishikawa Hitoshi
Published: August 2016

Target size and test distance effects on stereoacuity were investigated in 24 subjects using a three-dimensional monitor.Examination 1: Target Size Effects. The test distance was 2.5 m for 0.1°, 0.2°, 0.5°, and 0.9° target sizes; crossed parallax was presented in 22-second units. Average stereoacuity values for 0.1°, 0.2°, 0.5°, and 0.9° target sizes were59.58±14.86,47.66±13.71,41.25±15.95, and39.41±15.52seconds, respectively. Stereoacuity was significantly worse with a 0.1° target than with 0.2°, 0.5°, and 0.9° target sizes (P=0.03,P<0.0001, andP<0.0001, resp.).Examination 2: Test Distance Effects. Test distances of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 m were investigated for a 0.5° target size; crossed parallax was presented in 22-second units. Average stereoacuity values at 2.5 m, 5.0 m, and 7.5 m test distances were44.91±16.16,34.83±10.84, and24.75±7.27seconds, respectively. Stereoacuity at a 7.5 m distance was significantly better than at distances of 2.5 m and 5.0 m (P<0.0001andP=0.02, resp.). Stereoacuity at a 5.0 m distance was significantly better than at 2.5 m (P=0.04). Stereoacuity should be estimated by both parallax and other elements, including test distance and target size.
Simulation on the Self-Compacting Concrete by an Enhanced Lagrangian Particle Method
Authors: Wu Jun , Liu Xuemei , Xu Haihua , Du Hongjian
Published: August 2016

The industry has embraced self-compacting concrete (SCC) to overcome deficiencies related to consolidation, improve productivity, and enhance safety and quality. Due to the large deformation at the flowing process of SCC, an enhanced Lagrangian particle-based method, Smoothed Particles Hydrodynamics (SPH) method, though first developed to study astrophysics problems, with its exceptional advantages in solving problems involving fragmentation, coalescence, and violent free surface deformation, is developed in this study to simulate the flow of SCC as a non-Newtonian fluid to achieve stable results with satisfactory convergence properties. Navier-Stokes equations and incompressible mass conservation equations are solved as basics. Cross rheological model is used to simulate the shear stress and strain relationship of SCC. Mirror particle method is used for wall boundaries. The improved SPH method is tested by a typical 2D slump flow problem and also applied to L-box test. The capability and results obtained from this method are discussed.
Protective Effect ofAmphipterygium adstringensExtract on Dextran Sulphate Sodium-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Rodriguez-Canales Mario , Jimenez-Rivas Ruben , Canales-Martinez Maria Margarita , Garcia-Lopez Ana Judith , Rivera-Yañez Nelly , Nieto-Yañez Oscar , Ledesma-Soto Yadira , Sanchez-Torres Luvia Enid , Rodriguez-Sosa Miriam , Terrazas Luis Ignacio , Rodriguez-Monroy Marco Aurelio
Published: August 2016

Amphipterygium adstringensis an endemic species in Mexico commonly known as “cuachalalate.” Healers to treat gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastrointestinal cancer have traditionally used the bark. We investigated the effects of alcoholic extract ofA. adstringens(AaEE) in DSS-induced colitis in mice. The protective effect of AaEE was determined at 200 mg/kg by oral gavage for 10 days. We determine the effect of AaEE on clinical features (disease activity index), antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities in relation to the activity of SOD, CAT, and GPx, levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and changes both macroscopic and microscopic of the colonic mucosa. AaEE significantly reduced the inflammation of colon and significantly increased SOD and GPx activities. AaEE also significantly decreased TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1βcytokine levels compared to DSS-treated mice and reduced both infiltration of inflammatory cells and the mucosal damage in colon. The results suggested the protective potential of AaEE in DSS-induced colitis and this might be attributed to its phytochemicals compounds that have been found to induce a wide spectrum of activities such as reduction in oxidative stress, suppression of inflammation, modulating numerous signal transduction pathways, and induction of apoptosis. The findings of this study suggest that AaEE has substantial potential for the treatment of inflammatory colitis.
Numerical Estimation of Effective Mechanical Properties for Reinforced Plexiglas in the Two-Dimensional Case
Authors: Levin Vladimir , Vdovichenko Ignatiy , Vershinin Anatoly , Yakovlev Maksim , Zingerman Konstantin
Published: August 2016

The paper describes an algorithm for numerical estimation of effective mechanical properties in two-dimensional case, considering finite strains. The algorithm is based on consecutive application of different boundary conditions to representative surface elements (RSEs) in terms of displacements, solution of elastic boundary value problem for each case, and averaging the stress field obtained. Effective properties are estimated as a quadratic dependence of the second Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor upon the Green strain tensor. The results of numerical estimation of effective mechanical properties of plexiglas, reinforced with steel wire, are presented at finite strains. Numerical calculations were performed with the help of CAE Fidesys using the finite element method. The dependence of the effective properties of reinforced plexiglas upon the concentration of wires and the shape of wire cross section is investigated. In particular, it was found that the aspect ratio of reinforcing wire cross section has the most significant impact on effective moduli characterizing the material properties in the direction of larger side of the cross section. The obtained results allow one to estimate the influence of nonlinear effects upon the mechanical properties of the composite.
A New Cost-Profit Model for Measuring the Optimal Scale of China’s Foreign Exchange Reserve
Authors: Li Xing , Tian Tianhai
Published: August 2016

The fast increase of foreign exchange reserve in developing countries has raised a number of important financial questions in recent years. The analysis of the optimal scale of the foreign exchange reserve can provide important indicator to measure the strength and stability of country’s financial standing. In this work we propose a cost-profit model and use the financial data during 2000 to 2008 to analyze the optimal scale of China’s foreign exchange reserve. We identify a number of financial factors to measure the cost and profit of holding the reserves. Our prediction suggested that China’s foreign exchange reserves were still within the moderate range in 1999–2001. However, during 2002–2008 the foreign exchange reserve began to exceed the appropriate scale, and this upward trend was accelerated each year.
Internal Deformation Monitoring of Slope Based on BOTDR
Authors: Sun Yijie , Shi Bin , Zhang Dan , Tong Hengjin , Wei Guangqing , Xu Hongzhong
Published: August 2016

To overcome the shortcomings of conventional slope monitoring methods, this paper presented an in-place inclinometer based on BOTDR (Brillouin Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) which was used to obtain the long-term internal deformation in the slope. The installation process of optical fiber sensors and its measuring principle were introduced. The result of analysis indicated that the error in the measured displacement was proportional to the square of the inclinometer length and the precision of the BOTDR instrument, while it was inversely proportional to the diameter of the inclinometer tube. An actual field slope deformation monitoring case was also introduced. The results show that the BOTDR based inclinometer has a good consistency with the traditional inclinometer. It can effectively access the internal deformation of the slope and help to find the position of potential sliding surface accurately. This technology shows a high reliability and practicality in engineering application that will promote deeper research of slope in the future.
Fault Diagnosis and Fault Tolerant Control for Non-Gaussian Singular Time-Delayed Stochastic Distribution Systems with Disturbance Based on the Rational Square-Root Model
Authors: Sun Yuancheng , Liang Zhanhong
Published: August 2016

For the non-Gaussian singular time-delayed stochastic distribution control (SDC) system with unknown external disturbance where the output probability density function (PDF) is approximated by the rational square-root B-spline basis function, a robust fault diagnosis and fault tolerant control algorithm is presented. A full-order observer is constructed to estimate the exogenous disturbance and an adaptive observer is used to estimate the fault size. A fault tolerant tracking controller is designed using the feedback of distribution tracking error, fault, and disturbance estimation to let the postfault output PDF still track desired distribution. Finally, a simulation example is included to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms and encouraging results have been obtained.
Parameters Optimization for a Kind of Dynamic Vibration Absorber with Negative Stiffness
Authors: Shen Yongjun , Wang Xiaoran , Yang Shaopu , Xing Haijun
Published: August 2016

A new type of dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) with negative stiffness is studied in detail. At first, the analytical solution of the system is obtained based on the established differential motion equation. Three fixed points are found in the amplitude-frequency curves of the primary system. The design formulae for the optimum tuning ratio and optimum stiffness ratio of DVA are obtained by adjusting the three fixed points to the same height according to the fixed-point theory. Then, the optimum damping ratio is formulated by minimizing the maximum value of the amplitude-frequency curves according toH∞optimization principle. According to the characteristics of negative stiffness element, the optimum negative stiffness ratio is also established and it could still keep the system stable. In the end, the comparison between the analytical and the numerical solutions verifies the correctness of the analytical solution. The comparisons with three other traditional DVAs under the harmonic and random excitations show that the presented DVA performs better in vibration absorption. This result could provide theoretical basis for optimum parameters design of similar DVAs.
Networks Models of Actin Dynamics during Spermatozoa Postejaculatory Life: A Comparison among Human-Made and Text Mining-Based Models
Authors: Bernabò Nicola , Ordinelli Alessandra , Ramal Sanchez Marina , Mattioli Mauro , Barboni Barbara
Published: August 2016

Here we realized a networks-based model representing the process of actin remodelling that occurs during the acquisition of fertilizing ability of human spermatozoa (HumanMade_ActinSpermNetwork, HM_ASN). Then, we compared it with the networks provided by two different text mining tools: Agilent Literature Search (ALS) and PESCADOR. As a reference, we used the data from the online repository Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), referred to the actin dynamics in a more general biological context. We found that HM_ALS and the networks from KEGG data shared the same scale-free topology following the Barabasi-Albert model, thus suggesting that the information is spread within the network quickly and efficiently. On the contrary, the networks obtained by ALS and PESCADOR have a scale-free hierarchical architecture, which implies a different pattern of information transmission. Also, the hubs identified within the networks are different: HM_ALS and KEGG networks contain as hubs several molecules known to be involved in actin signalling; ALS was unable to find other hubs than “actin,” whereas PESCADOR gave some nonspecific result. This seems to suggest that the human-made information retrieval in the case of a specific event, such as actin dynamics in human spermatozoa, could be a reliable strategy.
Relationship between Sowing Time, Variety, and Quality in Safflower
Authors: Oz Mehmet
Published: August 2016

This research was carried out to determine the rates of protein and oil production and fatty acid composition and their correlation coefficients in four safflower cultivars (Remzibey, Dincer, Balci, and Yenice) sown in the autumn and spring from 2013 to 2015. The experiment was carried out using split plots in a randomized block design and was replicated 3 times. The study found protein production rates between 15.20 and 18.08%, oil production rates between 24.58 and 31.99%, palmitic acid production rates between 5.93 and 7.01%, stearic acid production rates between 2.13 and 2.53%, oleic acid production rates between 12.08 and 31.58%, linoleic acid production rates between 78.61 and 59.08%, and linolenic acid production rates between 0.11 and 0.15%. Higher seed oil content values were obtained from spring sowing compared to autumn sowing (27.42% and 26.10%), and, in terms of both the evaluated sowing times and cultivars, the highest oil production rates were found in the Balci cultivar (32.20% and 31.78%) for both sowing times. It was determined that there is a positive and significant (r=0.476⁎⁎) relationship between oil with protein production rates but a negative and significant relationship between oil and linolenic acid production rates (r=-0.728⁎⁎). The oleic acid production rate was strongly negatively and significantly correlated with the linoleic acid production rate (r=-0.997⁎⁎).
Image-Guided Voronoi Aesthetic Patterns with an Uncertainty Algorithm Based on Cloud Model
Authors: Wu Tao , Zhang Limin
Published: August 2016

Tessellation-based art is an important technique for computer aided aesthetic patterns generation, and Voronoi diagram plays a key role in the preprocessing, whose uncertainty mechanism is still a challenge. However, the existing techniques handle the uncertainty incompletely and unevenly, and the corresponding algorithms are not of high efficiency; thus it is impossible for users to obtain the results in real time. For a reference image, a Voronoi aesthetic pattern generation algorithm with uncertainty based on cloud model is proposed, including uncertain line representation using an extended cloud model and Voronoi polygon approximation filling with uncertainty. In view of the different parameters, seven groups of experiments and various experimental analyses are conducted. Compared with the related algorithms, the proposed technique performs better on running time, and its time complexity is approximatively linear related to the size of the input image. The experimental results show that it can produce visually similar effect with the frayed or cracked soil and has three advantages, that is, uncertainty, simplicity, and efficiency. The proposal can be a powerful alternative to the traditional methods and has a prospect of applications in the digital entertainment, home decoration, clothing design, and various fields.
Erythritol Is More Effective Than Xylitol and Sorbitol in Managing Oral Health Endpoints
Authors: de Cock Peter , Mäkinen Kauko , Honkala Eino , Saag Mare , Kennepohl Elke , Eapen Alex
Published: August 2016

Objective. To provide a comprehensive overview of published evidence on the impact of erythritol, a noncaloric polyol bulk sweetener, on oral health.Methods. A literature review was conducted regarding the potential effects of erythritol on dental plaque (biofilm), dental caries, and periodontal therapy. The efficacy of erythritol on oral health was compared with xylitol and sorbitol.Results. Erythritol effectively decreased weight of dental plaque and adherence of common streptococcal oral bacteria to tooth surfaces, inhibited growth and activity of associated bacteria likeS. mutans, decreased expression of bacterial genes involved in sucrose metabolism, reduced the overall number of dental caries, and served as a suitable matrix for subgingival air-polishing to replace traditional root scaling.Conclusions. Important differences were reported in the effect of individual polyols on oral health. The current review provides evidence demonstrating better efficacy of erythritol compared to sorbitol and xylitol to maintain and improve oral health.
Liver Cholesterol Overload Aggravates Obstructive Cholestasis by Inducing Oxidative Stress and Premature Death in Mice
Authors: Nuño-Lámbarri Natalia , Domínguez-Pérez Mayra , Baulies-Domenech Anna , Monte Maria J. , Marin Jose J. G. , Rosales-Cruz Patricia , Souza Verónica , Miranda Roxana U. , Bucio Leticia , Montalvo-Jave Eduardo E. , Concepción Gutiérrez-Ruiz María , García-Ruiz Carmen , Fernández-Checa José C. , Gomez-Quiroz Luis Enrique
Published: August 2016

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is one of the leading causes of liver disease. Dietary factors determine the clinical presentation of steatohepatitis and can influence the progression of related diseases. Cholesterol has emerged as a critical player in the disease and hence consumption of cholesterol‐enriched diets can lead to a progressive form of the disease. The aim was to investigate the impact of liver cholesterol overload on the progression of the obstructive cholestasis in mice subjected to bile duct ligation surgery. Mice were fed with a high cholesterol diet for two days and then were subjected to surgery procedure; histological, biochemical, and molecular analyses were conducted to address the effect of cholesterol in liver damage. Mice under the diet were more susceptible to damage. Results show that cholesterol fed mice exhibited increased apoptosis and oxidative stress as well as reduction in cell proliferation. Mortality following surgery was higher in HC fed mice. Liver cholesterol impairs the repair of liver during obstructive cholestasis and aggravates the disease with early fatal consequences; these effects were strongly associated with oxidative stress.
Functionalized Fullerene Increases NF‐κB Activity and Blocks Genotoxic Effect of Oxidative Stress in Serum‐Starving Human Embryo Lung Diploid Fibroblasts
Authors: Ershova E. S. , Sergeeva V. A. , Tabakov V. J. , Kameneva L. A. , Porokhovnik L. N. , Voronov I. I. , Khakina E. A. , Troshin P. A. , Kutsev S. I. , Veiko N. N. , Kostyuk S. V.
Published: August 2016

The influence of a water‐soluble [60] fullerene derivative containing five residues of 3‐phenylpropionic acid and a chlorine addend appended to the carbon cage (F‐828) on serum‐starving human embryo lung diploid fibroblasts (HELFs) was studied. Serum deprivation evokes oxidative stress in HELFs. Cultivation of serum‐starving HELFs in the presence of 0.1–1 µM F‐828 significantly decreases the level of free radicals, inhibits autophagy, and represses expression of NOX4 and NRF2 proteins. The activity of NF‐κB substantially grows up in contrast to the suppressed NRF2 activity. In the presence of 0.2–0.25 µM F‐828, the DSB rate and apoptosis level dramatically decrease. The maximum increase of proliferative activity of the HELFs and maximum activity of NF‐κB are observed at these concentration values. Conclusion. Under the conditions of oxidative stress evoked by serum deprivation the water‐soluble fullerene derivative F‐828 used in concentrations of 0.1 to 1 µM strongly stimulates the NF‐κB activity and represses the NRF2 activity in HELFs.
Exportin-5 Functions as an Oncogene and a Potential Therapeutic Target in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Shigeyasu Kunitoshi , Okugawa Yoshinaga , Toden Shusuke , Boland C. Richard , Goel Ajay
Published: August 2016

Purpose: Dysregulated expression of miRNAs has emerged as a hallmark feature in human cancers. Exportin-5 (XPO5), a karyopherin family member, is a key protein responsible for transporting precursor miRNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Although XPO5 is one of the key regulators of miRNA biogenesis, its functional role and potential clinical significance in colorectal cancer remains unclear.

Experimental Design: The expression levels of XPO5 were initially assessed in three genomic datasets, followed by determination and validation of the relationship between XPO5 expression and clinicopathologic features in two independent colorectal cancer patient cohorts. A functional characterization of XPO5 in colorectal cancer was examined by targeted gene silencing in colorectal cancer cell lines and a xenograft animal model.

Results: XPO5 is upregulated, both at mRNA and protein levels, in colorectal cancers compared with normal tissues. High XPO5 expression is associated with worse clinicopathologic features and poor survival in colorectal cancer patient cohorts. The siRNA knockdown of XPO5 resulted in reduced cellular proliferation, attenuated invasion, induction of G1–S cell-cycle arrest, and downregulation of key oncogenic miRNAs in colorectal cancer cells. These findings were confirmed in a xenograft animal model, wherein silencing of XPO5 resulted in the attenuation of tumor growth.

Conclusions: XPO5 acts like an oncogene in colorectal cancer by regulating the expression of miRNAs and may be a potential therapeutic target in colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(5); 1312–22. ©2016 AACR.
Adult Neurogenesis in Mammals: Variations and Confusions
Authors: Lipp Hans-Peter , Bonfanti Luca
Published: August 2016

Mammalian adult neurogenesis has remained enigmatic. Two lines of research have emerged. One focuses on a potential repair mechanism in the human brain. The other aims at elucidating its functional role in the hippocampal formation, chiefly in cognitive processes; however, thus far it has been unsuccessful. Here, we try to recognize the sources of errors and conceptual confusion in comparative studies and neurobehavioral approaches with a focus on mice. Evolutionarily, mammalian adult neurogenesis appears as protracted juvenile neurogenesis originating from precursor cells in the secondary proliferation zones, from where newly formed cells migrate to target regions in the forebrain. This late developmental process is downregulated differentially in various brain structures depending on species and age. Adult neurogenesis declines substantially during early adulthood and persists at low levels into senescence. Short-lasting episodes in proliferation or reduction of adult neurogenesis may reflect a multitude of factors, and have been studied chiefly in mice and rats. Comparative studies face both species-specific variations in staining and technical abilities of laboratories, lacking quantification of important reference measures (e.g. granule cell number) and evaluation of maturational markers whose persistence might be functionally more relevant than proliferation rates. Likewise, the confusion about the functional role of variations in adult hippocampal neurogenesis has many causes. Prominent is an inferential statistical approach, usually with low statistical power. Interpretation is complicated by multiple theories about hippocampal function, often unrealistically extrapolating from humans to rodents. We believe that the field of mammalian adult neurogenesis needs more critical thinking, more sophisticated hypotheses, better statistical, technical and behavioral approaches, and a broader conceptual perspective incorporating comparative aspects rather than neglecting them.
On the Role of Neurogenesis and Neural Plasticity in the Evolution of Animal Personalities and Stress Coping Styles
Authors: Øverli Øyvind , Sørensen Christina
Published: August 2016

Individual variation in how animals react to stress and environmental change has become a central topic in a wide range of biological disciplines, from evolutionary ecology to biomedicine. Such variation manifests phenotypically as correlated trait-clusters (referred to as coping styles, behavioral syndromes, shyness-boldness, or personality traits). Thresholds for switching from active coping (fight-flight) to inhibition and passive behavior when exposed to stress depend on experience and genetic factors. Comparative research has revealed a range of neuroendocrine-behavioral associations which are conserved throughout the vertebrate subphylum, including factors affecting perception, learning, and memory of stimuli and events. Here we review conserved aspects of the contribution of neurogenesis and other aspects of neural plasticity to stress coping. In teleost fish, brain cell proliferation and neurogenesis have received recent attention. This work reveals that brain cell proliferation and neurogenesis are associated with heritable variation in stress coping style, and they are also differentially affected by short- and long-term stress in a biphasic manner. Routine-dependent and inflexible behavior in proactive individuals is associated with limited neural plasticity. These evolutionarily conserved relationships hold the potential to illuminate the biological background for stress-related neurobiological disorders.
Optimal Interval between Ultrasound Scans for the Detection of Complications in Monochorionic Twins
Authors: McDonald Rebecca , Hodges Ryan , Knight Michelle , Teoh Mark , Edwards Andrew , Neil Peter , Wallace Euan M. , DeKoninck Philip
Published: August 2016

Introduction: Monochorionic-diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies are high risk, due to twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), twin anaemia polycythaemia sequence (TAPS) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). There is limited evidence to guide ultrasound surveillance protocols. Using a retrospective cohort, we aimed to provide insight into the optimal interval of ultrasound surveillance. Methods: Retrospective cohort of women with MCDA pregnancies who received antenatal care at Monash Medical Centre (January 2011-October 2014). We reviewed all ultrasounds from ≥15 weeks' gestation and collected perinatal outcomes. Results: A total of 162 women with MCDA pregnancies attended our care. Six women were excluded due to late referral. Of the remaining 156, 55% were uncomplicated. TTTS, TAPS, IUGR and fetal demise in utero occurred in 9%, 1%, 31% and 2%, respectively. Median interval between the last ultrasound and TTTS diagnosis was 3.1 weeks (IQR 0.8-5.8). There was a trend towards a longer interval for cases with advanced TTTS compared to early TTTS. Interval between ultrasound scans was longer in cases with unexplained fetal demise in utero and advanced TTTS than early TTTS [3.4 weeks (IQR 2.0-6.9) vs. 0.9 weeks (IQR 0.4-3.7); p < 0.05]. Discussion: Our observations support current recommendations for fortnightly ultrasound surveillance in MCDA pregnancies from 16 weeks' gestation and suggest that longer intervals may be associated with poorer outcomes.
Submucosal Abscess of the Esophagus Caused by Piriform Sinus Fistula Treated with Transoral Video Laryngoscopic Surgery
Authors: Koyama Satoshi , Fujiwara Kazunori , Morisaki Tsuyoshi , Fukuhara Takahiro , Kawamoto Katsuyuki , Kitano Hiroya , Takeuchi Hiromi
Published: August 2016

Piriform sinus fistula (PSF) is a rare branchial anomaly that causes repetitive acute suppurative thyroiditis or deep neck abscess. The definitive treatment of PSF is open neck surgery. However, such surgery has a cosmetic problem and a high risk of recurrence. Furthermore, identifying the fistula is difficult due to previous repetitive infections. We report a case of esophageal submucosal abscess caused by PSF treated with endoscopic mucosal incision. The patient underwent transoral video laryngoscopic surgery (TOVS), and endoscopy as well as fluoroscopy revealed complete closure of PSF without any complication. TOVS is a novel surgical technique for the definitive treatment of PSF with esophageal submucosal abscess.
Aliskiren Regulates Neonatal Fc Receptor and IgG Metabolism with Attenuation of Anti-GBM Glomerulonephritis in Mice
Authors: Kang Ju Hyung , Baik Haing Woon , Yoo Seung-Min , Kim Joo Heon , Cheong Hae Il , Park Chung-Gyu , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il-Soo
Published: August 2016

Background: Renin, in addition to its activation of the renin-angiotensin system, binds to the (pro)renin receptor (PRR) and triggers inflammatory and fibrogenic signaling in tissue. In addition, aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, has been shown to affect IgG metabolism by altering PRR and neonatal Fc receptors (FcRns). Methods: We investigated the effect of aliskiren on proteinuria, glomerular extracellular matrix, expressions of fibronectin, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), PRR, FcRn and renal metabolism of IgG in a mice model of anti-glomerular basement membrane glomerulonephritis (anti-GBM GN). Results: IgG deposition and expressions of FcRn and PRR were enhanced at glomeruli and urinary IgG levels increased in anti-GBM GN. Aliskiren attenuated anti-GBM GN with reduction of proteinuria and cortical expressions of fibronectin and TGF-β1. In addition, aliskiren suppressed the renal cortical expressions of FcRn and PRR. Aliskiren also reduced the glomerular IgG depositions and the urinary IgG levels albeit with increased circulating serum IgG levels. Conclusion: These results suggest that suppression of FcRn and PRR and regulation of IgG metabolism may be related to the attenuation of anti-GBM GN by aliskiren.
As estratégias sincréticas da narrativa da minissérie Suburbia
Authors: Santana Gelson , Pucci Junior Renato Luiz
Published: August 2016

The miniseries Suburbia, directed by Luiz Fernando Carvalho (Globo Television Network, 2012), turns the concept of pre-logical into a way to expose the multiple audiovisual aspect. The miniseries blends temporalities, causes a lack of definition between fiction and reality, and, through Roberto Carlos’ ballads, emphasizes the dimensions of affection and faith in a community of Rio de Janeiro. Some points of the miniseries clarify the syncretic way that the narrative was shaped in and assess the possibility of a new trend to be explored in Brazilian television fiction. The analytical instruments are based in Raymond Bellour, the narrative examination is based in Kristin Thompson, and the idea of oral pre-logic cultures in Lévy-Bruhl
O apocalipse social no cinema contemporâneo de Hollywood
Authors: Kellner Douglas
Published: August 2016

Films provide important insights into the psychological, socio-political, and ideological make-up of a society and culture. Reading film diagnostically allows one to gain insights into social problems and conflicts and to appraise the dominant socio-political problems and crises of the contemporary moment. This article engages Hollywood films that contain allegories of catastrophe within the context of the Bush-Cheney era. As I attempt to show, horror, fantasy and other popular film genres articulate fears of the present moment concerning the state and the military, ecological and social crisis, and other phenomena, and can thus provide critical images and provide experiences that raise questions about the existing society
Corpo, destruição e potência em Branco sai, preto fica
Authors: Furtado Beatriz , Lima Érico Oliveira de Araújo
Published: August 2016

This article discusses two stress fields. The first one regards the place of the body in philosophy from the dialogue with Nietzsche and Foucault. The second one comprehend the field of cinema, in which we propose a dialogue with White out, black in (2014), by Adirley Queirós, a film that shuffles bodies marked by police violence and that finds in the devices of science fiction a line of flight against the refuge of history. Between these two fields in dialogue – the thought of philosophy on the concept of body and the cinematographic work as artifice and strategy to documentary reports on resistance and fabling of the characters –, relations between memory and fiction, true and false arise
A participação das assessorias de comunicação do GDF na aplicação da Lei de Acesso à Informação*
Authors: Souza Janara , Geraldes Elen , Paulino Fernando Oliveira
Published: August 2016

The proposal of this research is to present the role of communication consultancies in the application of the Access to Information Act (LAI) in the Government of Distrito Federal (GDF). The article analyzes the concept of Public Communication’s that argues about the importance of the dialogue between state and society. Thirty-one public agencies were interviewed. This sample was formed by more than 50% interviewed agencies. More than half of the advisers say that the communication area participates directly of the law application process. Almost 60% of them answered that the strategies for application of LAI make up the organization’s communication policies
Uma perspectiva sobre fãs ao longo da trajetória de vida*
Authors: Harrington C. Lee , Bielby Denise D.
Published: August 2016

In this article we explore a life course perspective on fandom, with particular emphasis on fandom and adult development. While there is growing interest in issues of age and aging within fan studies and within media studies more broadly, there is a tendency in this literature to discuss aging and the life course atheoretically, ignoring a rich body of scholarship in fields that examines how lives unfold over time. Our goal in this manuscript is to make explicit what is typically rendered implicit in fan studies to enrich our understanding of long-term and later-life fandom, and to suggest ways that fan studies might more fully account for fandom over time
Redox Imaging Using Cardiac Myocyte-Specific Transgenic Biosensor Mice
Authors: Swain Lija , Kesemeyer Andrea , Meyer-Roxlau Stefanie , Vettel Christiane , Zieseniss Anke , Güntsch Annemarie , Jatho Aline , Becker Andreas , Nanadikar Maithily S. , Morgan Bruce , Dennerlein Sven , Shah Ajay M. , El-Armouche Ali , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Katschinski Dörthe M.
Published: August 2016

Rationale:

Changes in redox potentials of cardiac myocytes are linked to several cardiovascular diseases. Redox alterations are currently mostly described qualitatively using chemical sensors, which however do not allow quantifying redox potentials, lack specificity, and the possibility to analyze subcellular domains. Recent advances to quantitatively describe defined redox changes include the application of genetically encoded redox biosensors.

Objective:

Establishment of mouse models, which allow the quantification of the glutathione redox potential (
E
GSH
) in the cytoplasm and the mitochondrial matrix of isolated cardiac myocytes and in Langendorff-perfused hearts based on the use of the redox-sensitive green fluorescent protein 2, coupled to the glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1-roGFP2).

Methods and Results:

We generated transgenic mice with cardiac myocyte–restricted expression of Grx1-roGFP2 targeted either to the mitochondrial matrix or to the cytoplasm. The response of the roGFP2 toward H
2
O
2
, diamide, and dithiothreitol was titrated and used to determine the
E
GSH
in isolated cardiac myocytes and in Langendorff-perfused hearts. Distinct
E
GSH
were observed in the cytoplasm and the mitochondrial matrix. Stimulation of the cardiac myocytes with isoprenaline, angiotensin II, or exposure to hypoxia/reoxygenation additionally underscored that these compartments responded independently. A compartment-specific response was also observed 3 to 14 days after myocardial infarction.

Conclusions:

We introduce redox biosensor mice as a new tool, which allows quantification of defined alterations of
E
GSH
in the cytoplasm and the mitochondrial matrix in cardiac myocytes and can be exploited to answer questions in basic and translational cardiovascular research.
Clinical Relevance of Rehospitalizations for Unstable Angina and Unplanned Revascularization Following Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Shore Supriya , Smolderen Kim G. , Spertus John A. , Kennedy Kevin F. , Jones Philip G. , Zhao Zhenxiang , Wang Tracy Y. , Arnold Suzanne V.
Published: August 2016

Background

Rehospitalizations following acute myocardial infarction for unplanned coronary revascularization and unstable angina (
UA
) are often included as parts of composite end points in clinical trials. Although clearly costly, the clinical relevance of these individual components has not been described.

Methods and Results

Patients enrolled in a prospective, 24‐center, US acute myocardial infarction registry were followed for 1 year after an acute myocardial infarction for rehospitalizations, that were independently adjudicated by experienced cardiologists. Patients who did and did not experience
UA
or revascularization rehospitalization were propensity matched using greedy matching. Among 3283 patients with acute myocardial infarction who were included, mean age was 59 years, 33% were female, and 70% were white. Rehospitalization rates for
UA
and unplanned revascularization at 1 year were 5.0% and 4.1%, respectively. After propensity matching, we included 2433 patients in the
UA
rehospitalization group and 2410 in the unplanned revascularization group. Using weighted proportional hazards Cox regression, there was no significant association between a rehospitalization for
UA
and 5‐year all‐cause mortality (9.6% versus 13.8%; adjusted hazard ratio 0.87, 95%
CI
0.60–1.16). Patients rehospitalized for unplanned revascularization had a lower 5‐year mortality risk (7.0% versus 15.1%; hazard ratio 0.68, 95%
CI
0.50–0.92) compared with those without such rehospitalizations. Nevertheless, patients with
UA
and unplanned revascularization had a substantially greater hazard of subsequent rehospitalizations compared with patients without such events (
UA
: hazard ratio 4.36, 95%
CI
3.48–5.47; revascularization: hazard ratio 4.38, 95%
CI
3.53–5.44).

Conclusions

Rehospitalizations for
UA
and unplanned revascularization in the year after an acute myocardial infarction are associated with higher risks of subsequent rehospitalizations but not with mortality.
ABT‐719 for the Prevention of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing High‐Risk Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Phase 2b Clinical Trial
Authors: McCullough Peter A. , Bennett‐Guerrero Elliott , Chawla Lakhmir S. , Beaver Thomas , Mehta Ravindra L. , Molitoris Bruce A. , Eldred Ann , Ball Greg , Lee Ho‐Jin , Houser Mark T. , Khan Samina
Published: August 2016

Background

Patients undergoing cardiac surgeries with cardiopulmonary bypass (on‐pump) have a high risk for acute kidney injury (
AKI
). We tested
ABT
‐719, a novel α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone analog, for prevention of
AKI
in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.

Methods and Results

This phase 2b randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial included adult patients with stable renal function undergoing high‐risk on‐pump cardiac surgery in the United States and Denmark. Participants received placebo (n=61) or cumulative
ABT
‐719 doses of 800 (n=59), 1600 (n=61), or 2100 μg/kg (n=59). Primary outcome was development of
AKI
based on Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria, measured utilizing preoperative creatinine value and maximum value within 48 hours and urine output within the first 42 hours postsurgery. Secondary outcomes included incidence of
AKI
based on maximal changes from baseline in novel
AKI
biomarkers over a 72‐hour period after clamp release and length of intensive care unit stays through 90 days postsurgery. A total of 65.5%, 62.7%, and 69.6% of patients in the 800‐, 1600‐, and 2100‐μg/kg groups, respectively, developed
AKI
(stages 1, 2, and 3 combined) versus 65.5% in the placebo group (for each pair‐wise comparison with placebo,
P
=0.966, 0.815, and 0.605, respectively). Adverse events occurred at a similar rate in all treatment groups.

Conclusions

ABT
‐719 treatment did not lower
AKI
incidence using AKIN criteria, influence the elevations of novel biomarkers, or change 90‐day outcomes in patients after cardiac surgery.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique Identifier:
NCT
01777165.
Cytomegalovirus‐Productive Infection Is Associated With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Nikitskaya Elizaveta , Lebedeva Anna , Ivanova Oxana , Maryukhnich Elena , Shpektor Alexander , Grivel Jean‐Charles , Margolis Leonid , Vasilieva Elena
Published: August 2016

Background

Although an association between human herpesvirus (
HHV
) infection and atherosclerosis has been suggested, the data supporting such an association are controversial and, in most cases, are based on serological evidence or on the presence of cell‐associated
HHV DNA
, which do not report about actual viral replication. We quantified the
DNA
of all 8 types of HHVs in plasma, in which their presence is evidence of viral replication.

Methods and Results

Using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, we evaluated the presence of
HHV DNA
in blood samples obtained at the time of hospitalization from 71 patients with acute coronary syndrome, 26 patients with stable coronary artery disease, and 53 healthy volunteers and in atherosclerotic plaques of 22 patients with peripheral artery disease who underwent endarterectomy.
HHV
‐5 (cytomegalovirus [
CMV
]) was the only
HHV
with a level that was higher in acute coronary syndrome patients than in the control group and that correlated with the level of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein. The numbers of effector memory T cells positively correlated with the numbers of
CMV
genome copies in carotid arteries plaques, whereas the numbers of central memory T cells negatively correlated with
CMV
copy numbers.

Conclusions

Of all
HHV
levels, only
CMV
was higher in patients with stable coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndrome than in the healthy group, and its load correlated with the level of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein. The level of
CMV
in atherosclerotic plaques correlated with the state of immunoactivation of lymphocytes in plaques, suggesting that the reactivation of
CMV
may contribute to the immune activation associated with the progression of atherosclerosis.