bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsupervised Joint Image Denoising and Active Contour Segmentation in Multidimensional Feature Space
Authors: Ge Qi , Jing Xiao-Yuan , Wu Fei , Yan Jingjie , Li Hai-Bo
Published: July 2016

We describe a new method for simultaneous image denoising and level set-based active contour segmentation using multidimensional features. We consider an image to be a surface embedded in a Riemannian manifold. By defining a metric in the embedded space, which in our case includes multidimensional image features as well as a level set-based active contour model, a minimization problem in the image space can be obtained through the Polyakov action framework. The resulting minimization problem is solved with a dual algorithm for efficiency. Benefits of this new method include the fact that it is independent of any artificial “running” parameters, and experiments using both synthetic and real images show that the method is robust with respect to noise and blurry object boundaries.
Providing Databases for Different Indoor Positioning Technologies: Pros and Cons of Magnetic Field and Wi-Fi Based Positioning
Authors: Torres-Sospedra Joaquín , Montoliu Raul , Mendoza-Silva Germán M. , Belmonte Oscar , Rambla David , Huerta Joaquín
Published: July 2016

Localization is one of the main pillars for indoor services. However, it is still very difficult for the mobile sensing community to compare state-of-the-art indoor positioning systems due to the scarcity of publicly available databases. To make fair and meaningful comparisons between indoor positioning systems, they must be evaluated in the same situation, or in the same sets of situations. In this paper, two databases are introduced for studying the performance of magnetic field and Wi-Fi fingerprinting based positioning systems in the same environment (i.e., indoor area). The “magnetic” database contains more than 40,000 discrete captures (270 continuous samples), whereas the “Wi-Fi” one contains 1,140 ones. The environment and both databases are fully detailed in this paper. A set of experiments is also presented where two simple but effective baselines have been developed to test the suitability of the databases. Finally, the pros and cons of both types of positioning techniques are discussed in detail.
Effect of His-Tag on Expression, Purification, and Structure of Zinc Finger Protein, ZNF191(243-368)
Authors: Zhao Dongxin , Huang Zhongxian
Published: July 2016

Zinc finger proteins are associated with hereditary diseases and cancers. To obtain an adequate amount of zinc finger proteins for studying their properties, structure, and functions, many protein expression systems are used. ZNF191(243-368) is a zinc finger protein and can be fused with His-tag to generate fusion proteins such as His6-ZNF191(243-368) and ZNF191(243-368)-His8. The purification of His-tag protein using Ni-NTA resin can overcome the difficulty of ZNF191(243-368) separation caused by inclusion body formation. The influences of His-tag on ZNF191(243-368) properties and structure were investigated using spectrographic techniques and hydrolase experiment. Our findings suggest that insertion of a His-tag at the N-terminal or C-terminal end of ZNF191(243-368) has different effects on the protein. Therefore, an expression system should be considered based on the properties and structure of the protein. Furthermore, the hydrolase activity of ZNF191(243-368)-His8has provided new insights into the design of biological functional molecules.
Caravan-Submm, Black Hole Imager in the Andes
Authors: Miyoshi Makoto , Kasuga Takashi , Iba Jose K. Ishitsuka , Oka Tomoharu , Sekido Mamoru , Takefuji Kazuhiro , Takahashi Masaaki , Saida Hiromi , Takahashi Rohta
Published: July 2016

Imaging a black hole horizon as a shadow at the center of black hole accretion disk is another method to prove/check Einstein’s general relativity at strong gravitational fields. Such black hole imaging is expected to be achievable using a submillimeter wavelength VLBI (very long baseline interferometer) technique. Here, we introduce a Japanese black hole imaging project, Caravan-submm undertaken in the Andes.
Rapid Quantification of Melamine in Different Brands/Types of Milk Powders Using Standard Addition Net Analyte Signal and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Tang Bang-Cheng , Cai Chen-Bo , Shi Wei , Xu Lu
Published: July 2016

Multivariate calibration (MVC) and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy have demonstrated potential for rapid analysis of melamine in various dairy products. However, the practical application of ordinary MVC can be largely restricted because the prediction of a new sample from an uncalibrated batch would be subject to a significant bias due to matrix effect. In this study, the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy and the standard addition (SA) net analyte signal (NAS) method (SANAS) for rapid quantification of melamine in different brands/types of milk powders was investigated. In SANAS, the NAS vector of melamine in an unknown sample as well as in a series of samples added with melamine standards was calculated and then the Euclidean norms of series standards were used to build a straightforward univariate regression model. The analysis results of 10 different brands/types of milk powders with melamine levels 0~0.12% (w/w) indicate that SANAS obtained accurate results with the root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) values ranging from 0.0012 to 0.0029. An additional advantage of NAS is to visualize and control the possible unwanted variations during standard addition. The proposed method will provide a practically useful tool for rapid and nondestructive quantification of melamine in different brands/types of milk powders.
Adaptive Fuzzy Sliding Mode Tracking Control of Uncertain Underactuated Nonlinear Systems: A Comparative Study
Authors: Baklouti Faten , Aloui Sinda , Chaari Abdessattar
Published: July 2016

The trajectory tracking of underactuated nonlinear system with two degrees of freedom is tackled by an adaptive fuzzy hierarchical sliding mode controller. The proposed control law solves the problem of coupling using a hierarchical structure of the sliding surfaces and chattering by adopting different reaching laws. The unknown system functions are approximated by fuzzy logic systems and free parameters can be updated online by adaptive laws based on Lyapunov theory. Two comparative studies are made in this paper. The first comparison is between three different expressions of reaching laws to compare their abilities to reduce the chattering phenomenon. The second comparison is made between the proposed adaptive fuzzy hierarchical sliding mode controller and two other control laws which keep the coupling in the underactuated system. The tracking performances of each control law are evaluated. Simulation examples including different amplitudes of external disturbances are made.
Preparation and Viscoelastic Properties of Composite Fibres Containing Cellulose Nanofibrils: Formation of a Coherent Fibrillar Network
Authors: Moberg Tobias , Tang Hu , Zhou Qi , Rigdahl Mikael
Published: July 2016

Composite fibres with a matrix of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) as reinforcing elements were produced using a capillary viscometer. Two types of CNF were employed: one based on carboxymethylated pulp fibres and the other on TEMPO-oxidized pulp. Part of the latter nanofibrils was also grafted with PEG in order to improve the compatibility between the CNF and the PEG matrix. The nominal CNF-content was kept at 10 or 30 weight-%. The composite fibres were characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy in addition to dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Evaluation of the storage modulus indicated a clear reinforcing effect of the CNF, more pronounced in the case of the grafted CNF and depending on the amount of CNF. An interesting feature observed during the DMTA-measurements was that the fibrils within the composite fibres appeared to form a rather coherent and load-bearing network which was evident even after removing of the PEG-phase (by melting). An analysis of the modulus of the composite fibres using a rather simple model indicated that the CNF were more efficient as reinforcing elements at lower concentrations which may be associated with a more pronounced aggregation as the volume fraction of CNF increased.
Inhibition of the EGFR/STAT3/CEBPD Axis Reverses Cisplatin Cross-resistance with Paclitaxel in the Urothelial Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Wang Wei-Jan , Li Chien-Feng , Chu Yu-Yi , Wang Yu-Hui , Hour Tzyh-Chyuan , Yen Chia-Jui , Chang Wen-Chang , Wang Ju-Ming
Published: July 2016

Purpose: Cisplatin (CDDP) is frequently used in combination chemotherapy with paclitaxel for treating urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder (UCUB). CDDP cross-resistance has been suggested to develop with paclitaxel, thus hindering successful UCUB treatment. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms underlying CDDP-induced anticancer drug resistance is imperative and may provide an insight in developing novel therapeutic strategy.

Experimental Design: Loss-of-function assays were performed to elucidate the role of the EGFR and STAT3 in CDDP-induced CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein delta (CEBPD) expression in UCUB cells. Reporter and in vivo DNA-binding assays were employed to determine whether CEBPD directly regulates ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1) and ATP binding cassette subfamily C member 2 (ABCC2) activation. Finally, a xenograft animal assay was used to examine the abilities of gefitinib and S3I-201 (a STAT3 inhibitor) to reverse CDDP and paclitaxel sensitivity.

Results: CEBPD expression was maintained in postoperative chemotherapy patients, and this expression was induced by CDDP even in CDDP-resistant UCUB cells. Upon CDDP treatment, CEBPD activated ABCB1 and ABCC2. Furthermore, the EGFR/STAT3 pathway contributed to CDDP-induced CEBPD expression in UCUB cells. Gefitinib and S3I-201 treatment significantly reduced the expression of CEBPD and enhanced the sensitivity of CDDP-resistant UCUB cells to CDDP and paclitaxel.

Conclusions: Our results revealed the risk of CEBPD activation in CDDP-resistant UCUB cells and suggested a therapeutic strategy for patients with UCUB or UCUB resisted to CDDP and paclitaxel by combination with either gefitinib or S3I-201. Clin Cancer Res; 23(2); 503–13. ©2016 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Immune Checkpoint Antibodies and their Toxicities
Authors: Cousin Sophie , Italiano Antoine
Published: July 2016

The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors for solid tumor treatments represents a major oncologic advance. Since the approval of ipilimumab, a cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) antibody, for the treatment of metastatic melanoma, many drugs, especially those targeting PD-1/PD-L1, have demonstrated promising antitumor effects in many types of cancer. By reactivating the immune system, these immunotherapies have led to the development of new toxicity profiles, also called immune-related adverse events (irAE). IrAEs can involve many organ systems, and their management is radically different from that of cytotoxic drugs; irAEs require immunosuppressive treatments, such as corticoids or TNFα antibody. In addition, the occurrence of irAEs has raised significant questions. Here, we summarize progress that has been made toward answering these questions, focusing on (i) the impact of immunotherapy dose on irAE occurrence, (ii) the correlation between irAE and patient outcome, (iii) the safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients already treated for autoimmune disease, and (iv) the suspected effect on tumor growth of steroids used for the management of irAEs. Clin Cancer Res; 22(18); 4550–5. ©2016 AACR.
Preclinical Comparison of Osimertinib with Other EGFR-TKIs in EGFR-Mutant NSCLC Brain Metastases Models, and Early Evidence of Clinical Brain Metastases Activity
Authors: Ballard Peter , Yates James W.T. , Yang Zhenfan , Kim Dong-Wan , Yang James Chih-Hsin , Cantarini Mireille , Pickup Kathryn , Jordan Angela , Hickey Mike , Grist Matthew , Box Matthew , Johnström Peter , Varnäs Katarina , Malmquist Jonas , Thress Kenneth S. , Jänne Pasi A. , Cross Darren
Published: July 2016

Purpose: Approximately one-third of patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring tumors with EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-sensitizing mutations (EGFRm) experience disease progression during treatment due to brain metastases. Despite anecdotal reports of EGFR-TKIs providing benefit in some patients with EGFRm NSCLC brain metastases, there is a clinical need for novel EGFR-TKIs with improved efficacy against brain lesions.

Experimental Design: We performed preclinical assessments of brain penetration and activity of osimertinib (AZD9291), an oral, potent, irreversible EGFR-TKI selective for EGFRm and T790M resistance mutations, and other EGFR-TKIs in various animal models of EGFR-mutant NSCLC brain metastases. We also present case reports of previously treated patients with EGFRm-advanced NSCLC and brain metastases who received osimertinib in the phase I/II AURA study (NCT01802632).

Results: Osimertinib demonstrated greater penetration of the mouse blood–brain barrier than gefitinib, rociletinib (CO-1686), or afatinib, and at clinically relevant doses induced sustained tumor regression in an EGFRm PC9 mouse brain metastases model; rociletinib did not achieve tumor regression. Under positron emission tomography micro-dosing conditions, [11C]osimertinib showed markedly greater exposure in the cynomolgus monkey brain than [11C]rociletinib and [11C]gefitinib. Early clinical evidence of osimertinib activity in previously treated patients with EGFRm-advanced NSCLC and brain metastases is also reported.

Conclusions: Osimertinib may represent a clinically significant treatment option for patients with EGFRm NSCLC and brain metastases. Further investigation of osimertinib in this patient population is ongoing. Clin Cancer Res; 22(20); 5130–40. ©2016 AACR.
The Efficacy of Oncolytic Adenovirus Is Mediated by T-cell Responses against Virus and Tumor in Syrian Hamster Model
Authors: Li Xiaozhu , Wang Pengju , Li Hang , Du Xuexiang , Liu Mingyue , Huang Qibin , Wang Yaohe , Wang Shengdian
Published: July 2016

Purpose: Oncolytic adenoviruses (Ad) represent an innovative approach to cancer therapy. Its efficacy depends on multiple actions, including direct tumor lysis and stimulation of antiviral and antitumor immune responses. In this study, we investigated the roles of T-cell responses in oncolytic adenoviral therapy.

Experimental Design: An immunocompetent and viral replication–permissive Syrian hamster tumor model was used. The therapeutic mechanisms of oncolytic Ad were investigated by T-cell deletion, immunohistochemical staining, and CTL assay.

Results: Deletion of T cells with an anti-CD3 antibody completely demolished the antitumor efficacy of oncolytic Ad. Intratumoral injection of Ad induced strong virus- and tumor-specific T-cell responses, as well as antiviral antibody response. Both antiviral and antitumor T-cell responses contributed to the efficacy of oncolytic Ad. Deletion of T cells increased viral replication and extended the persistence of infectious virus within tumors but almost abrogated the antitumor efficacy. Preexisting antiviral immunity promoted the clearance of injected oncolytic Ad from tumors but had no effect on antitumor efficacy. Strikingly, the repeated treatment with oncolytic Ad has strong therapeutic effect on relapsed tumors or tumors insensitive to the primary viral therapy.

Conclusions: These results demonstrate that T cell–mediated immune responses outweigh the direct oncolysis in mediating antitumor efficacy of oncolytic Ad. Our data have a high impact on redesigning the regimen of oncolytic Ad for cancer treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 23(1); 239–49. ©2016 AACR.
Giant Atypical Intraventricular Meningioma in a Child
Authors: Prodromou Neofytos , Alexiou George A. , Stefanaki Kalliopi , Moraiti Aimilia , Sfakianos George
Published: July 2016

We present the case of a 14-year-old boy with a giant tumor of the lateral ventricle. The patient was operated upon. Histopathology showed the presence of an atypical meningioma. Postoperative imaging confirmed the complete tumor excision. Meningiomas although frequent in adults are rare in children. Intraventricular meningiomas are exceedingly rare. Complete surgical excision should be the goal of treatment and is usually associated with a favorable outcome.
Does Emotion Dysregulation Mediate the Relationship between Early Maltreatment and Later Substance Dependence? Findings of the CANSAS Study
Authors: Wolff Sebastian , Holl Julia , Stopsack Malte , Arens Elisabeth A. , Höcker Anja , Staben Katharina A. , Hiller Philipp , Klein Michael , Schäfer Ingo , Barnow Sven ,   the CANSAS Study Group
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: Maltreatment in childhood and adolescence is a risk factor for substance use disorders (SUDs) in adulthood. This association has rarely been investigated in the light of emotion dysregulation. To fill this gap, this study examines emotion dysregulation and SUDs among adults with a history of early maltreatment. Methods: Comparison of emotion dysregulation in adults with a history of early abuse and neglect who developed either an SUD (n = 105) or no mental disorder (n = 54). Further, a mediation model for the association between the severity of early maltreatment and SUDs was tested. Participants completed research diagnostic interviews for psychopathology, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Results: By using hierarchical regression techniques and mediational analyses controlling for age and gender, it was possible to provide evidence for the mediating role of emotion dysregulation between early emotional and physical maltreatment and later SUDs. Conclusions: Emotion dysregulation is a potential mechanism underlying the relationship between early emotional and physical maltreatment and the development of SUDs. In light of these findings, focusing on the early training of adaptive emotion regulation strategies after childhood maltreatment might be of considerable relevance to prevent the development of SUDs.
Successful Management of Graft Reinfection of HCV Genotype 2 in Living Donor Liver Transplantation from a Hepatitis B Core Antibody-Positive Donor with Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin
Authors: Sasaki Reina , Kanda Tatsuo , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Yasui Shin , Haga Yuki , Nakamura Masato , Yokoyama Masayuki , Wu Shuang , Nakamoto Shingo , Arai Makoto , Maruyama Hitoshi , Miyazaki Masaru , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: July 2016

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are relatively safe and highly effective for the eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in liver transplant recipients. In this case study, we present a female with a graft reinfected with HCV genotype 2 who was treated with a combination of sofosbuvir and ribavirin after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Because the graft was from a hepatitis B core antibody-positive donor, passive immunization with hyperimmune hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and entecavir were also provided to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation. It became clear that the combination of sofosbuvir and ribavirin promptly led to a sustained virologic response and that this combination was safe to treat graft reinfection with HCV genotype 2 after LDLT. Adverse events caused by DAAs were not observed, except for slight anemia. HBIG and entecavir were useful in the prevention of HBV reactivation. In conclusion, the present case indicated that DAA treatment for graft reinfection with HCV is safe and effective in LDLT from hepatitis B core antibody-positive donors.
Maintenance Hemodialysis Using Native Arteriovenous Fistula in a Patient with Severe Generalized Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Ito Takayasu , Ishikawa Eiji , Matsuo Hiroshi , Fujimoto Mika , Murata Tomohiro , Isoda Kenichi , Mizutani Hitoshi , Ito Masaaki
Published: July 2016

Renal failure and infectious disease are strongly associated with morbidity and mortality in patients with severe generalized recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-sev gen). However, it is reportedly difficult to introduce hemodialysis with an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). We encountered a 32-year-old man with RDEB-sev gen in whom hemodialysis with a native AVF was introduced that favorably affected his long-term survival. This patient eventually died because of cachexia related to the recurrence of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma 51 months after hemodialysis introduction. We believe that in this patient, the frequency of vascular access troubles related to infection or reduction of blood flow was probably low as a result of hemodialysis with his native AVF. Thus, it seems likely that patients with RDEB-sev gen with end stage kidney disease who are on hemodialysis can be successfully managed with a native AVF.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Normal Coronary Vessel Diameter
Authors: Kundra Tanveer Singh , Kaur Parminder
Published: July 2016

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha2 agonist, which is widely used for conscious sedation in ICU patients. It is being increasingly used to provide conscious sedation in out-of-theatre procedures like CT scan, MRI, endoscopies and catheterization (cath) procedures. There is limited data till date regarding the effect of dexmedetomidine on coronary vessel diameter. The aim of this prospective observational study was to observe the effect of dexmedetomidine on normal coronary vessel diameter. Fifty patients who had come for elective coronary angiography in the cath lab were enrolled in the study. After taking the first shot of the coronary angiogram and confirming that the right coronary artery (RCA) is normal, dexmedetomidine was administered in a dose of 1 µg/kg intravenously over 15 min. Immediately after that, another shot was taken to check the diameter of RCA. Paired Student's t test was used to analyze the data. The mean diameter of RCA before giving dexmedetomidine was 2.7634 ± 0.3189 mm. The mean diameter decreased significantly to 2.6296 ± 0.3379 mm after administration of dexmedetomidine (p value <0.0001). Thus, dexmedetomidine decreases the coronary vessel diameter.
What Really Rigs Up RIG-I?
Authors: Barik Sailen
Published: July 2016

RIG-I (retinoic acid-inducible gene 1) is an archetypal member of the cytoplasmic DEAD-box dsRNA helicase family (RIG-I-like receptors or RLRs), the members of which play essential roles in the innate immune response of the metazoan cell. RIG-I functions as a pattern recognition receptor that detects nonself RNA as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP). However, the exact molecular nature of the viral RNAs that act as a RIG-I ligand has remained a mystery and a matter of debate. In this article, we offer a critical review of the actual viral RNAs that act as PAMPs to activate RIG-I, as seen from the perspective of a virologist, including a recent report that the viral Leader-read-through transcript is a novel and effective RIG-I ligand.
Estimating the Quantitative Demand of NOAC Antidote Doses on Stroke Units
Authors: Pfeilschifter Waltraud , Farahmand Dana , Niemann Daniela , Ikenberg Benno , Hohmann Carina , Abruscato Mario , Thonke Sven , Strzelczyk Adam , Hedtmann Günther , Neumann-Haefelin Tobias , Kollmar Rainer , Singer Oliver C. , Ferbert Andreas , Steiner Thorsten , Steinmetz Helmuth , Reihs Anke , Misselwitz Björn , Foerch Christian
Published: July 2016

Background: The first specific antidote for non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) has recently been approved. NOAC antidotes will allow specific treatment for 2 hitherto problematic patient groups: patients with oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT)-associated intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and maybe also thrombolysis candidates presenting on oral anticoagulation (OAT). We aimed to estimate the frequency of these events and hence the quantitative demand of antidote doses on a stroke unit. Methods: We extracted data of patients with acute ischemic stroke and ICH (<24 h after symptom onset) in the years 2012-2015 from a state-wide prospective stroke inpatient registry. We selected 8 stroke units and determined the mode of OAT upon admission in 2012-2013. In 2015, the mode of OAT became a mandatory item of the inpatient registry. From the number of anticoagulated patients and the NOAC share, we estimated the current and future demand for NOAC antidote doses on stroke units. Results: Eighteen percent of ICH patients within 6 h of symptom onset or an unknown symptom onset were on OAT. Given a NOAC share at admission of 40%, about 7% of all ICH patients may qualify for NOAC reversal therapy. Thirteen percent of ischemic stroke patients admitted within 4 h presented on anticoagulation. Given the availability of an appropriate antidote, a NOAC share of 50% could lead to a 6.1% increase in thrombolysis rate. Conclusions: Stroke units serving populations with a comparable demographic structure should prepare to treat up to 1% of all acute ischemic stroke patients and 7% of all acute ICH patients with NOAC antidotes. These numbers may increase with the mounting prevalence of atrial fibrillation and an increasing use of NOAC.
Inibição intelectual: manejos clínicos
Authors: Nezan Monica De Barros Cunha
Published: July 2016

O trabalho discute o conceito de inibição intelectual para a Psicanálise, articulando-o ao relato de um caso clínico. A discussão parte do conceito freudiano de inibição, o qual situa a problemática da inibição intelectual.
Constituição do sujeito X Desenvolvimento da criança: um falso dilema
Authors: Magalhães Darlene Denise Machado de Moura Oliveira de
Published: July 2016

A teoria psicanalítica vem nos dizer da constituição de uma estrutura subjetiva, do tornar-se sujeito de desejo, e da importância dessas construções na infância. Entretanto, há uma tendência entre os teóricos a fazer uma separação radical entre a perspectiva estrutural e a perspectiva do desenvolvimento, criando um hiato entre essas formulações, o que dificulta o diálogo interdisciplinar. Partindo desse ponto de vista, discutirei a possibilidade de um diálogo entre mecânica motora e estrutura discursiva, perpassando diferentes cenas do funcionamento psicomotor que determinam a subjetivação da criança por meio de sua construção corporal. Assim, irei me deter nas diferenças e semelhanças entre estrutura e desenvolvimento, haja vista que uma criança se estrutura e se desenvolve.
Fluid Volume Overload and Congestion in Heart Failure
Authors: Miller Wayne L.
Published: July 2016

Volume regulation, assessment, and management remain basic issues in patients with heart failure. The discussion presented here is directed at opening a reassessment of the pathophysiology of congestion in congestive heart failure and the methods by which we determine volume overload status. Peer-reviewed historical and contemporary literatures are reviewed. Volume overload and fluid congestion remain primary issues for patients with chronic heart failure. The pathophysiology is complex, and the simple concept of intravascular fluid accumulation is not adequate. The dynamics of interstitial and intravascular fluid compartment interactions and fluid redistribution from venous splanchnic beds to central pulmonary circulation need to be taken into account in strategies of volume management. Clinical bedside evaluations and right heart hemodynamic assessments can alert clinicians of changes in volume status, but only the quantitative measurement of total blood volume can help identify the heterogeneity in plasma volume and red blood cell mass that are features of volume overload in patients with chronic heart failure and help guide individualized, appropriate therapy—not all volume overload is the same.
Microscale Solubility Measurements of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption–Ionization (MALDI) Matrices Using Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) Coupled with Partial Least Squares (PLS) Analysis
Authors: Gorre Elsa , Owens Kevin G.
Published: July 2016

In this work an attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) absorption based method is used to measure the solubility of two matrix-assisted laser desorption–ionization (MALDI) matrices in a few pure solvents and mixtures of acetonitrile and water using low microliter amounts of solution. Results from a method that averages the values obtained from multiple calibration curves created by manual peak picking are compared to those predicted using a partial least squares (PLS) chemometrics approach. The PLS method provided solubility values that were in good agreement with the manual method with significantly greater ease of analysis. As a test, the solubility of adipic acid in acetone was measured using the two methods of analysis, and the values are in good agreement with solubility values reported in literature. The solubilities of the MALDI matrices α-cyano-4-hydroxy cinnamic acid (CHCA) and sinapinic acid (SA) were measured in a series of mixtures made from acetonitrile (ACN) and water; surprisingly, the results show a highly nonlinear trend. While both CHCA and SA show solubility values of less than 10 mg/mL in the pure solvents, the solubility value for SA increases to 56.3 mg/mL in a 75:25 v/v ACN:water mixture. This can have a significant effect on the matrix-to-analyte ratios in the MALDI experiment when sample protocols call for preparation of a saturated solution of the matrix in the chosen solvent system.
Validation of the Attention-Related Driving Errors Scale (ARDES) in an English-Speaking Sample
Authors: Barragán Daniela , Roberts Daniel M. , Baldwin Carryl L.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

The goal for this study was to develop an English translation of the Attention-Related Driving Errors Scale (ARDES-US) and to determine its potential relationship with driver history and other demographic variables.

Background:

Individual differences in performance on vigilance and cognitive tasks are well documented, but less is known about susceptibility to attention-related errors while driving. The ARDES has been developed and administered in both Spanish and Chinese but to our knowledge has never been administered or examined in an English-speaking population.

Method:

Two hundred ninety-six English-speaking individuals completed a series of self-report measures, including the ARDES-US, Attention-Related Cognitive Errors Scale, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and Cognitive Failures Questionnaire.

Results:

A confirmatory factor analysis using maximum-likelihood estimates with robust standard errors revealed results largely consistent with previous versions of the ARDES, namely, the ARDES-Spain and ARDES-Argentina. Additionally, a number of new results emerged. Specifically, women, drivers who received traffic tickets within the previous 2 years, and those with a lower level of education all had a greater propensity toward self-reported driver inattention as measured by the ARDES-US. Further analyses revealed that these findings were independent of age, years of driving experience, and driving frequency.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that the ARDES-US is a valid and reliable measure of driver inattention with an English-speaking American sample.

Application:

Potential applications of the ARDES-US include identifying individuals who are at greater risk of attention-related errors while driving and suggesting individually tailored training and safety countermeasures.
The characterisation of the values of public ethics: application to territorial public management in the province of Guangxi (China)
Authors: Mériade Laurent
Published: July 2016

Today, the legitimacy of politicians and public confidence in public decision-making and administration are increasingly dependent on the way in which their ethics are appraised ( Kolthoff et al., 2013 ). The ‘moral pluralism and cultural diversity’ of contemporary society ( Boisvert, 2008 ) make public ethics a new theoretical framework to be explored from the point of view of the compromises it makes between various, often conflicting, values. Yet, in practice, this compromise seems to limit the values of public ethics to principles of good governance formalised around codes of conduct or managerial procedures (Rochet, 2011). Our research question sets out to question the variety of these values; the research objective being to develop a categorisation of the values of public ethics by supplementing the conceptual framework of New Public Value ( Moore, 1995 ; Nabatchi, 2011 ), in particular, by characterising the values of the ethics of interaction not yet illustrated in the literature.

Points for practitioners

In practical terms, the aim of this article is to identify and characterise more precisely the variety of ethical values mobilised by public managers. To do so, we conducted a survey in two stages among public managers in Guangxi province in China, a country where the expression of personal or cultural ethics in the workplace is described in the literature as relatively natural. Our first results suggest a fairly clear distinction between the ethical values governing the performance of public action, which are relatively well formalised, and the ethical values governing public interaction, which are more informal and closer to cultural and social rituals.
Measuring Music Education
Authors: Richerme Lauren Kapalka
Published: July 2016

Despite substantial attention to measurement and assessment in contemporary education and music education policy and practice, the process of measurement has gone largely undiscussed in music education philosophy. Using the work of physicist and philosopher Karen Barad, in this philosophical inquiry, I investigated the nature of measurement in music education while concurrently exploring the assumptions underlying documents related to the proposed music Model Cornerstone Assessments. First, Barad’s concepts of reflection and diffraction reveal the false assumption that measurement captures rather than alters and produces musical experiences. Second, measurement apparatuses are explained as boundary-making practices. Third, the limits of measurement apparatuses are explored through Barad’s assertions about experimental inclusions and exclusions and Lyotard’s concept of the differend, and these limits are used to problematize the ambitious, value-laden discourse of documents related to the music Model Cornerstone Assessments. Finally, through Barad’s concept of intra-action, measurement is reinterpreted as a process through which “teacher” and “student” emerge. Music education policymakers, teachers, and students might adopt language emphasizing the intra-active nature of measurement and empower themselves to critique and reimagine existing measurement apparatuses and their measurement and assessment practices.
Peripheral urbanization: Autoconstruction, transversal logics, and politics in cities of the global south
Authors: Caldeira Teresa PR
Published: July 2016

Many cities around the world have been largely constructed by their residents, who build not only their own houses, but also frequently their neighborhoods. In this article, I use the notion of peripheral urbanization to analyze this way of producing cities that is quite pervasive in the global south. I argue that peripheral urbanization refers to modes of the production of space that (a) operate with a specific temporality and agency, (b) engage transversally with official logics, (c) generate new modes of politics, and (d) create highly unequal and heterogeneous cities. I also argue that peripheral urbanization not only produces heterogeneity within the city as it unfolds over time, but also varies considerably from one city to another. I build my arguments by juxtaposing dissimilar cases from a few cities in the global south. To focus on peripheral urbanization means simultaneously to de-center urban theory and to offer a bold characterization of modes of the production of space that are different from those that generated the cities of the North Atlantic.
Carbon dioxide production during cardiopulmonary bypass: pathophysiology, measure and clinical relevance
Authors: Ranucci Marco , Carboni Giovanni , Cotza Mauro , de Somer Filip
Published: July 2016

Carbon dioxide production during cardiopulmonary bypass derives from both the aerobic metabolism and the buffering of lactic acid produced by tissues under anaerobic conditions. Therefore, carbon dioxide removal monitoring is an important measure of the adequacy of perfusion and oxygen delivery. However, routine monitoring of carbon dioxide removal is not widely applied. The present article reviews the main physiological and pathophysiological sources of carbon dioxide, the available techniques to assess carbon dioxide production and removal and the clinically relevant applications of carbon dioxide-related variables as markers of the adequacy of perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass.
The new materialism: Re-claiming a debate from a feminist perspective
Authors: Tepe-Belfrage Daniela , Steans Jill
Published: July 2016

This article re-claims and invigorates the debate on ‘New Materialism’ as it is unfolding within Marxist political economy specifically. We choose this site to make our intervention in the debate because, while Marxism claims to makes visible the poor, dispossessed and those ‘left behind’ in the contemporary global capitalist economy, we discern, in contributions made thus far, a marked tendency to sideline the rich tradition of feminist historical materialist scholarship. We contend that feminist analyses are vital in elucidating the ‘gendered face’ of global financial crisis and austerity. Accordingly, after first mapping the contours of current discussion, we briefly revisit feminist critiques of Marxism; interrogate the inter-relationship between neoliberal capitalism, the gendered nature of labour markets, the ‘patriarchal’ state and social reproduction and unpaid care work; and, finally, we further develop our argument through an analysis of the gendered impacts of current austerity measures in the United Kingdom.
Clinical Reasoning in the Assessment and Intervention Planning for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Climie Emma A. , Mah Janet W. T. , Chase Cheryl Y.
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with insight into the clinical reasoning involved in the assessment and intervention planning for a child with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. The reader will be guided through the authors’ conceptualization of this case, and suggestions for intervention in the classroom will be discussed.
Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Examine Beliefs About Verbal Sexual Coercion Among Urban Black Adolescents
Authors: Eaton Asia A. , Stephens Dionne P.
Published: July 2016

This study used the theory of planned behavior to identify urban Black adolescents’ beliefs about male-to-female verbal sexual coercion. Interviews were conducted with 91 urban, Black adolescents (53 boys and 38 girls) to identify their behavioral, normative, and control beliefs about verbal sexual coercion perpetration (for males) and resistance (for females). Boys reported that perpetrating verbal sexual coercion could result in negative relationship outcomes, and the main benefit of using this tactic was to obtain sex. Unsupportive peers and some male family members were seen as encouraging boys to use verbal sexual coercion, whereas parents were seen as opposed to the use of coercion. Being in a private context with a girl and having persuasive skill were seen as facilitating the use of coercion, whereas being with an experienced or skilled girl was a barrier. For girls, positive relationship outcomes and sexual health risks were the benefits and pitfalls of resisting verbal sexual coercion. “Real” friends and family were described as supporting girls’ resistance to coercion, while “fake” friends, promiscuous girls, and male peers were seen as not supporting resistance. Girls believed being in a safe, public context would make it easier to resist coercion, while being in a stable relationship with an attractive and persistent partner would make it more difficult to resist. Knowing urban, Black adolescents’ beliefs about verbal sexual coercion is the first step toward predicting and intervening on their perpetration and resistance behaviors.
Nuclear fission technology in Spain: History and social concerns
Authors: Aliende Urtasun Ana , Luquin Asunción , Garrido Julián J.
Published: July 2016

This research examines the evolution of nuclear technology in Spain from the early years of the Franco dictatorship to the global financial crisis and technology’s influence on Spanish culture. To this end, we take a sociological perspective, with science culture and social perceptions of risk in knowledge societies serving as the two elements of focus in this work. In this sense, this article analyses the transformation of social relationships in light of technological changes. We propose technology as a strategic place to observe the institutional and organisational dynamics of technologic-scientific risks, the expert role and Spain’s science culture. In addition, more specifically, within the language of co-production, we ‘follow the actor’ and favour new forms of citizen participation that promote ethics to discuss technological issues.
Toward the Design of an Energy Consumption Feedback System
Authors: Beltman Suzanne , Vosslamber Suzanne M. , Molderink Albert , Noordzij Matthijs L.
Published: July 2016

In this article, we examine two novel issues in user requirements analysis for a feedback system on household energy consumption: (a) microgeneration and (b) the “Must, Should, Could, Won’t have” (MoSCoW) method. We report on a qualitative user requirements analysis using the MoSCoW method for the prioritization of user requirements. Fifteen interviews resulted in three user groups that were abstracted into personas with different user requirements. Finally, we show that changes in cutoff values resulted in MoSCoW prioritization changes for a maximum of only 5.9%. These are promising results for the robustness of the MoSCoW method.
Age- and Sex-Related Normative Data for the Foot Function Index in a German-Speaking Cohort
Authors: Schneider Wolfgang , Jurenitsch Stefan
Published: July 2016

Background:

Despite increasing popularity of the Foot Function Index (FFI), normative values are still unavailable for this self-administered score. This study was designed to generate age- and sex-related normative values for the FFI-total and for both subscales FFI-pain and FFI-disability.

Methods:

We used the cross-cultural adapted and validated German version of the FFI to generate a data pool using the results of 625 individuals, including staff and visitors to our hospital and excluding persons scheduled for foot surgery or in after-treatment.

Results:

Mean values for FFI-total were calculated: 15.3 points (95% confidence interval [CI], 13.3-16.9), 14.9 points for FFI-pain (CI, 13.3-16.5), and 15.6 for FFI-disability (CI, 13.8-17.4). Results showed higher values for FFI-total, FFI-pain, and FFI-disability for individuals older than 40 years. In general, normative values showed a tendency for higher values with age. A slightly inconsistent distribution over different age groups with a peak for individuals in their 40s and 50s was observed, especially for FFI-pain. Men had better scores than women. Individuals with previous surgery showed lower scores in their respective score.

Conclusions:

Our data calculated normative values for a German-speaking cohort for FFI-total as well as for both subscales FFI-pain and FFI-disability. Our data quantified the increase of FFI-total, FFI-pain, and FFI-disability normative values with age but also showed a slightly inconsistent distribution of normative values over all age groups. We demonstrated higher normative values for women and slightly higher normative values for individuals with previous foot or ankle surgery.

Level of Evidence:

II, prospective comparative study
Social Research As a Painful (but Rewarding) Self-Examination
Authors: Kuehner Angela
Published: July 2016

As early as 1967, the French ethno-psychoanalyst Georges Devereux proposed adopting a radical perspective on researchers’ subjectivity to the entire field of “behavioral sciences.” Whenever our research confronts us with other human beings and thus with ourselves, he argues, we are confronted with anxiety. Instead of fighting against this anxiety and other painful irritations that go hand in hand with any social research, Devereux’s proposal can thus be understood as an invitation to work with this anxiety and use it to gain deeper insights. This article suggests that we re-read Devereux in the light of the contemporary discussions on reflexivity and subjectivity based on (a) an outline and short interpretation of Devereux’s central argument, (b) a subjective re-reading by the author herself, and (c) an examination of some contemporary readings by other qualitative researchers.
Role of IL-17-producing lymphocytes in severity of multiple sclerosis upon natalizumab treatment
Authors: Bühler Ulrike , Fleischer Vinzenz , Luessi Felix , Rezk Ayman , Belikan Patrick , Graetz Christiane , Gollan René , Wolf Christina , Lutz Jens , Bar-Or Amit , Siffrin Volker , Zipp Frauke
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Natalizumab is known to prevent T-helper cells entering the central nervous system (CNS). We hypothesize that more pathogenic T-helper cells are present outside the CNS and a possible relationship to disease severity.

Methods:

Characterization and enrichment of human CD4+IL-17+ cells were performed ex vivo using peripheral blood mononuclear cells from natalizumab-treated relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients ( n = 33), untreated RRMS patients ( n = 13), and healthy controls ( n = 33). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were performed routinely for patients.

Results:

Lymphocytes were elevated in peripheral blood of natalizumab-treated patients compared to untreated patients and healthy controls. Whereas group comparison for CD4+IL-17+ numbers also differed, CD4+IFN-γ+ and CD4+IL-22+ counts were not increased. CD4+IL-17+ cells not only expressed but also secreted IL-17. In natalizumab-treated patients, IL-17+ cell frequency was found to correlate with T1-hypointense lesions, but was not an indicator for rebound activity after treatment discontinuation, except in one patient who experienced a fulminant rebound, and interestingly, in whom the highest IL-17+ cell levels were observed.

Conclusion:

Increased lymphocytes and CD4+IL-17+ cells in the blood of RRMS patients receiving natalizumab corroborate the drug’s mechanism of action, that is, blocking transmigration to CNS. Correlation between IL-17-expressing lymphocytes and T1-hypointense lesions underlines the important role of these cells in the disease pathology.
Political legitimacy and economic development: The role of agriculture in Costa Rica
Authors: Grabowski Richard
Published: July 2016

This article argues that rapid agricultural growth, the benefits of which are broadly diffused, promotes structural change and economic development via a process which has, for the most part, gone unrecognized. Specifically, broad-based agricultural growth produces legitimacy for the political elite and this allows them to restructure the coalition upon which they depend. Thus, the influence on policy of the agrarian and/or merchant based elites can be reduced while that of manufacturing and export manufacturing based elites increased. Government policy can then be successfully reoriented to promote growth in manufacturing via structural change. The experience of Costa Rica is used to illustrate these ideas.