bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solutions Using Gamma Irradiated Minerals
Authors: Cruz-Olivares Julián , Martínez-Barrera Gonzalo , Pérez-Alonso César , Barrera-Díaz Carlos Eduardo , Chaparro-Mercado María del Carmen , Ureña-Núñez Fernando
Published: November 2016

For the first time, an irradiated mineral was used as a novel modified adsorbent for lead removal of aqueous solutions. The effects of gamma radiation doses and temperature on the lead adsorption capacity of an unknown mineral were evaluated. The results show that, in the chemisorption process, the highest adsorption capacity (9.91 mg/g) and the maximum percentage of lead removal (99.1%) were reached at 40°C when using an irradiated mineral at 150 kGy. The improvement on the lead adsorption speed was the most important feature of the irradiated mineral. The experimental results were successfully correlated with the pseudo second-order kinetic model. For all results, the average absolute relative deviations (AARD) were less than 13.20%, and the correlation factor (r2) was higher than 0.998. Moreover, the average values of the thermodynamic parameters (ΔG0=-10612 J/mol, ΔH0=-12360 J/mol, and ΔS0=171 J/mol K) suggest the feasibility of the proposed process, in terms of the endothermic and irreversible chemisorption results; moreover, ion exchange was evaluated through the EDS results. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the unknown irradiated mineral is mainly composed of quartz (SiO2), calcite (CaCO3), and calcium magnesium silicate (Ca0.15Mg0.85) Mg (SiO6).
Parameter Identifiability of Ship Manoeuvring Modeling Using System Identification
Authors: Luo Weilin
Published: November 2016

To improve the feasibility of system identification in the prediction of ship manoeuvrability, several measures are presented to deal with the parameter identifiability in the parametric modeling of ship manoeuvring motion based on system identification. Drift of nonlinear hydrodynamic coefficients is explained from the point of view of regression analysis. To diminish the multicollinearity in a complicated manoeuvring model, difference method and additional signal method are employed to reconstruct the samples. Moreover, the structure of manoeuvring model is simplified based on correlation analysis. Manoeuvring simulation is performed to demonstrate the validity of the measures proposed.
Flavonoids and Sesquiterpene Lactones from Artemisia absinthium and Tanacetum parthenium against Schistosoma mansoni Worms
Authors: de Almeida Luísa Maria Silveira , Carvalho Lara Soares Aleixo de , Gazolla Matheus Coutinho , Silva Pinto Pedro Luiz , Silva Marcos Paulo Nascimento da , de Moraes Josué , Da Silva Filho Ademar A.
Published: November 2016

Human schistosomiasis, caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma, is one of the most significant neglected tropical diseases, affecting more than 200 million individuals worldwide and praziquantel is the only available drug to treat this disease. Artemisia absinthium L. and Tanacetum parthenium L. are species popularly used as anthelmintics. We investigated the in vitro schistosomicidal activity of crude extracts of A. absinthium (AA) and T. parthenium (TP) and their isolated compounds. AA and TP, at 200 μg/mL, were active, causing 100% mortality of all adult worms. Chromatographic fractionation of AA leads to isolation of artemetin and hydroxypelenolide, while santin, apigenin, and parthenolide were isolated from TP. Artemetin, hydroxypelenolide, santin, and apigenin, at 100 μM, were inactive against adult worms. Parthenolide (12.5 to 100 μM) caused 100% mortality, tegumental alterations, and reduction of motor activity of all adult worms of S. mansoni, without affecting mammalian cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed tegumental morphological alterations and changes on the numbers of tubercles of S. mansoni worms. This report provides the first evidence for the in vitro activity of parthenolide against adult worms of S. mansoni, opening the route to further schistosomicidal studies with this compound.
Third-Generation Capsule Endoscopy Outperforms Second-Generation Based on the Detectability of Esophageal Varices
Authors: Kunihara Sayoko , Oka Shiro , Tanaka Shinji , Otani Ichiro , Igawa Atsushi , Nagaoki Yuko , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: November 2016

Background and Aim. The third-generation capsule endoscopy (SB3) was shown to have better image resolution than that of SB2. The aim of this study was to compare SB2 and SB3 regarding detectability of esophageal varices (EVs).Methods. Seventy-six consecutive liver cirrhosis patients (42 men; mean age: 67 years) received SB3, and 99 (58 men; mean age, 67 years old) received SB2. All patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy within 1 month prior to capsule endoscopy as gold standard for diagnosis. The diagnosis using SB3 and SB2 for EVs was evaluated regarding form (F0–F3), location (Ls, Lm, and Li), and the red color (RC) sign of EVs.Results. SB2 and SB3 did not significantly differ on overall diagnostic rates for EV. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of SB2/SB3 for EV diagnosis were, respectively, 65%/81%, 100%/100%, 100%/100%, and 70%/62%. However, the diagnostic rates for EV form F1 were 81% using SB3 and 52% using SB2 (P=0.009). Further, the diagnostic rates for Ls/Lm varices were 79% using SB3 and 81% using SB2, and, for Li, varices were 84% using SB3 and 52% using SB2 (P=0.02).Conclusion. SB3 significantly improved the detectability of EVs compared with SB2.
Analysis of ROR1 Protein Expression in Human Cancer and Normal Tissues
Authors: Balakrishnan Ashwini , Goodpaster Tracy , Randolph-Habecker Julie , Hoffstrom Benjamin G. , Jalikis Florencia G. , Koch Lisa K. , Berger Carolina , Kosasih Paula L. , Rajan Anusha , Sommermeyer Daniel , Porter Peggy L. , Riddell Stanley R.
Published: November 2016

Purpose: This study examines cell surface ROR1 expression in human tumors and normal tissues. ROR1 is considered a promising target for cancer therapy due to putative tumor-specific expression, and multiple groups are developing antibodies and/or chimeric antigen receptor–modified T cells to target ROR1. On-target, off-tumor toxicity is a challenge for most nonmutated tumor antigens; however, prior studies suggest that ROR1 is absent on most normal tissues.

Experimental Design: Our studies show that published antibodies lack sensitivity to detect endogenous levels of cell surface ROR1 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. We developed a ROR1-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting the carboxy-terminus of ROR1 and evaluated its specificity and sensitivity in IHC.

Results: The 6D4 mAb is a sensitive and specific reagent to detect cell surface ROR1 by IHC. The data show that ROR1 is homogenously expressed on a subset of ovarian cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, and lung adenocarcinomas. Contrary to previous findings, we found ROR1 is expressed on several normal tissues, including parathyroid; pancreatic islets; and regions of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The 6D4 mAb recognizes rhesus ROR1, and ROR1 expression was similar in human and macaque tissues, suggesting that the macaque is a suitable model to evaluate safety of ROR1-targeted therapies.

Conclusions: ROR1 is a promising immunotherapeutic target in many epithelial tumors; however, high cell surface ROR1 expression in multiple normal tissues raises concerns for on-target off-tumor toxicities. Clinical translation of ROR1-targeted therapies warrants careful monitoring of toxicities to normal organs and may require strategies to ensure patient safety. Clin Cancer Res; 23(12); 3061–71. ©2016 AACR.
Inhibition of Cartilage Acidic Protein 1 Reduces Ultraviolet B Irradiation Induced-Apoptosis through P38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and Jun Amino-Terminal Kinase Pathways
Authors: Ji Yinghong , Rong Xianfang , Li Dan , Cai Lei , Rao Jun , Lu Yi
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation can easily induce apoptosis in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) and further lead to various eye diseases including cataract. Here for the first time, we investigated the role of cartilage acidic protein 1 (CRTAC1) gene in UVB irradiation induced-apoptosis in HLECs. Methods: Three groups of HLECs were employed including model group, empty vector group, and CRTAC1 interference group. Results: After UVB irradiation, the percentage of primary apoptotic cells was obviously fewer in CRTAC1 interference group. Meanwhile, inhibition of CRTAC1 also reduced both reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and intracellular Ca2+ concentration, but the level of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) was increased in HLECs. Further studies indicated that superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and total antioxidative (T-AOC) level were significantly increased in CRTAC1-inhibited cells, while the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly decreased. ELISA analysis of CRTAC1-inhibited cells showed that the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were significantly decreased, but the concentration of interleukin-10 (IL-10) was significantly increased. Western blot analyses of eight apoptosis-associated proteins including Bax, Bcl-2, p38, phospho-p38 (p-p38), Jun amino-terminal kinases (JNK1/2), phospho-JNK1/2 (p-JNK1/2), calcium-sensing receptor (CasR), and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) indicated that the inhibition of CRTAC1 alleviated oxidative stress and inflammation response, inactivated calcium-signaling pathway, p38 and JNK1/2 signal pathways, and eventually reduced UVB irradiation induced-apoptosis in HLECs. Conclusion: These results provided new insights into the mechanism of cataract development, and demonstrated that CRTAC1 could be a potentially novel target for cataract treatment.
Prenasal Thickness, Prefrontal Space Ratio and Other Facial Profile Markers in First-Trimester Fetuses with Aneuploidies, Cleft Palate, and Micrognathia
Authors: Bakker Merel , Pace Margherita , de Jong-Pleij Els , Birnie Erwin , Kagan Karl-Oliver , Bilardo Caterina M.
Published: November 2016

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and reproducibility of the prenasal thickness (PNT)/nasal bone length (NBL) ratio, maxilla-nasion-mandible (MNM) angle, facial profile line, profile line distance, and prefrontal space ratio (PFSR) in the first trimester of pregnancy, develop normal ranges, and evaluate these markers in abnormal fetuses. Methods: All measurements were performed on stored images by two operators. Feasibility, interoperator agreement, and prediction intervals were calculated for all measurements. Results: Feasibility was the highest for the NBL (74.3-79.7%) and the MNM angle (75.7-79.05%). Correlation was good for the NBL, the PNT, and the MNM angle (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.706-0.835). Mean difference between operators was the lowest for the PNT and PFSR (0.03-0.08). Measurements in abnormal fetuses showed that the majority of trisomy 21 fetuses had either an absent nasal bone or a shorter NBL. The PNT and PNT/NBL ratio were above the 97.5th centile in one third of the cases. Fetuses with facial clefts or micrognathia showed on average a large MNM angle (multiple of the median 0.96-5.15). Conclusion: First-trimester facial markers are feasible. The PNT and PNT/NBL ratio were increased in one third of the trisomic fetuses, and the MNM angle in the majority of fetuses with micrognathia and facial clefts.
Three Circulating LncRNA Predict Early Progress of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hu Hai-bo , Jie Hong-Ying , Zheng Xiang-Xiang
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Previous studies revealed that circulating (either from plasma or serum) long non-coding RNA may predict the occurrence or prognosis of multiple human malignant tumors. In this study, we mainly explored whether circulating lncRNAs can be utilized as biomarkers predicting the development of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods: LncRNA microarray was applied to screen the potential biomarkers for ESCC. Each group contained three individual plasma samples. A multi-stage validation and risk score formula detection were used for validation. Results: Eleven dysregulated lncRNAs were obtained after Venny analysis. Further validation in a larger cohort including 205 ESCC patients, 82 patients suffering from esophagus dysplasia and 210 healthy controls confirmed that increased Linc00152, CFLAR-AS1 and POU3F3 might be potential biomarkers for predicting the early progress with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.698, 0.651 and 0.584, respectively. The merged AUC of the three factors and merged with CEA was 0.765 and 0.955, respectively. We also revealed that circulating levels of three lncRNAs were associated with poor post-surgery prognosis of ESCC patients. Conclusions: The three circulating lncRNAs might serve as potential biomarkers for predicting the early occurrence of ESCC.
Parthenolide Induces Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Autophagic Cell Death in Human Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Yang Chen , Yang Qing Ou , Kong Qing-Jie , Yuan Wen , Ou Yang Yue-Ping
Published: November 2016

Background and Aim: Osteosarcoma is a devastating tumor of bone, primarily affecting adolescents. Parthenolide, a naturally occurring small molecule that interferes with NF-κB signaling, has recently attracted considerable attention because of its pharmacological action involving anti-cancer effects. However, the mechanism of the cytotoxic effect exerted by parthenolide on tumor cells is not clearly defined today. Methods: In this study, the effects of parthenolide were evaluated and characterized in human osteosarcoma cancer cell. Cell viability was assessed by CCK-8. Apoptosis was assessed by Annexin V-FITC/PI Flow cytometry assay. Relative quantitative real-time PCR and western blot were used to determine the expressions of genes and proteins. Results: Our results suggest that parthenolide did not cause caspase-dependent cell death in osteosarcoma cancer cells, as indicated by the absence of significant early apoptosis as well as caspase-3 cleavage. Instead, parthenolide increased the autophagy and mitophagy, as characterized by increased PINK1 and Parkin translocation to mitochondria and enhanced autophagy proteins. The induction of autophagy by parthenolide was associated with the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS antioxidants N-acetylcysteine (NAC) attenuated parthenolide-induced autophagy activity. Conclusions: Our findings unveil a novel mechanism of drug action by parthenolide in osteosarcoma cancer cells and suggest a potential value of treating osteosarcoma cancer through a caspase-independent autophagic cell death by ROS activation.
The Epigenetically-Regulated microRNA-378a Targets TGF-β2 in TGF-β1-Treated Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Yu Fujun , Yang Jianhuan , Huang Kate , Pan Xiaodong , Chen BiCheng , Dong Peihong , Zheng Jianjian
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: In liver fibrosis, the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is considered as a pivotal event. It is well known that transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is the main stimuli factor responsible for HSC activation. microRNAs (miRNAs), regulating various biological processes, have recently been shown to be involved in HSC activation. A recent study reported that deficiency of miR-378a contributes to cardiac fibrosis via TGF-β1-dependent paracrine mechanism. However, the involvement of miR-378a and its roles in TGF-β1-induced HSC activation remains largely unknown. Methods: miR-378a expression was detected in TGF-β1-treated cells and patients with cirrhosis. Then, effects of miR-378a overexpression on cell proliferation and HSC activation were analyzed. We also analyzed the binding of miR-378a to the 3′-untranslated region of TGF-β2. Results: In response to TGF-β1, miR-378a expression was down-regulated in a dose-dependent manner. miR-378a overexpression suppressed both cell proliferation and cell cycle in TGF-β1-treated LX-2 cells. Moreover, miR-378a overexpression inhibited TGF-β1-induced HSC activation including the reduction of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen. Similarly, miR-378a resulted in a reduction in cell proliferation, and the expressions of α-SMA and Col1A1 in TGF-β1-treated primary HSCs. Notably, TGF-β2 was confirmed as a target of miR-378a by luciferase reporter assays. Interestingly, miR-378a promoter methylation may be responsible for miR-378a down-regulation in TGF-β1-treated LX-2 cells and TGF-β1-treated primary HSCs. Further studies confirmed that reduced miR-378a was associated with promoter methylation in patients with cirrhosis compared with healthy controls. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that miR-378a expression is associated with its methylation status in TGF-β1-treated cells, and epigenetically-regulated miR-378a inhibits TGF-β1-induced HSC activation, at least in part, via TGF-β2.
Imbalance of Th17/Treg in Different Subtypes of Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Li Cui , Yuan Jianghong , Zhu Yuan-feng , Yang Xiang-ju , Wang Qiong , Xu Jian , He Shuang-tao , Zhang Jin-an
Published: November 2016

Aims: To clarify the imbalance of Th17/Treg in different subtypes of autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) including Graves' disease(GD), Hashimoto's thyroiditis(HT) and Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). Methods: 47 patients with AITD (including 16 GD, 15 HT, and 16 GO) and 12 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The percentages of Th17 and Treg cells, the ratio of Th17/Treg, as well as their related transcription factors RORγt and Foxp3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were measured by flow cytometry and real-time quantitative PCR Results: Compared with those in control group, the percentage of CD4+IL-17+T cell(Th17) and the mRNA expression of its transcription factor RORγt were higher in PBMCs of AITDs (P<0.05), particularly in HT subgroup (P<0.01). The percentage of CD4+Foxp3+T (Treg) cells and its transcription factor Foxp3 mRNA were significantly decreased in PBMCs of GD (P<0.05). In addition, the ratio of Th17/Treg was elevated in AITD group and GO subgroup (P<0.01). In GO subgroup, the patients with clinical activity score (CAS) above 4.5 had higher percentages of Th17 than those with CAS ranging from 3 to 4.5 (P<0.05). Conclusion: Increased Th17 lymphocytes may play a more important role in the pathogenesis of HT and GO while decreased Treg may be greatly involved in GD.
Scoparone Protects Against Pancreatic Fibrosis via TGF-β/Smad Signaling in Rats
Authors: Xu Min , Cai Jing , Wei Hong , Zhou Meng , Xu Ping , Huang Hongmei , Peng Wanxin , Du Fengyi , Gong Aihua , Zhang Youli
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: This study was to investigate the influence of scoparone on pancreatic fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) were isolated from pancreas tissue blocks, and cultured for 3-5 generations for the experiment. PSCs were treated with scoparone in different doses as experimental groups, salvianolic acid B as a positive control and PBS as a blank group. We measured the effects of scoparone on cellular proliferation, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and pancreatic fibrosis. Cellular oxidative stress was detected by using commercially available kits. The impact of scoparone on EMT and fibrosis was detected through immunofluorescence or western blotting. Results: Compared with the control group, scoparone significantly inhibited stellate cell proliferation, and reduced MDA, the expression of mesenchymal makers, and increased the levels of SOD and the expression of E-cadherin (P < 0.05). Western blot analysis showed that scoparone downregulated the expression of TGF-β and p-smad2/3, and upregultated the expression of smad7 (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Scoparone can reduce the levels of oxidative stress, repress pancreatic stellate cells activation, and alleviate fibrosis by regulating TGF-β/Smad pathway.
Leg Muscle Involvement in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy: Comparison between Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Types 1 and 2
Authors: Mair Dorothea , Huegens-Penzel Monika , Kress Wolfram , Roth Christian , Ferbert Andreas
Published: November 2016

Background: Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) presents with 2 genetically distinct types. We describe for the first time the MRI patterns of leg muscle involvement in type 2 and compare it with type 1. Methods: The intramuscular fat content was assessed on lower extremity axial T1-weighted MRI scans in 6 FSHD1 and 5 FSHD2 patients. Results: Overall, the muscle involvement profile did not differ substantially between FSHD1 and FSHD2. In the thigh, the dorsomedial compartment including the semimembranosus, semitendinosus and adductor magnus was the most affected. The quadriceps was mostly spared, but isolated involvement of the rectus femoris was common. Fat infiltration in the distal soleus and the medial gastrocnemius with sparing of the lateral gastrocnemius was a common finding; involvement of the tibialis anterior was less frequent. A proximal-to-distal increase in fat content was frequently present in some muscles. Conclusion: Muscle involvement appears to be independent of type, confirming a similar pathophysiological pathway in FSHD1 and FSHD2.
Childhood Health Consequences of Maternal Obesity during Pregnancy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gaillard Romy , Santos Susana , Duijts Liesbeth , Felix Janine F.
Published: November 2016

Background: Obesity is a major public health problem among women of reproductive age. In a narrative review, we examined the influence of maternal obesity during pregnancy on fetal outcomes and childhood adiposity, cardio-metabolic, respiratory and cognitive-related health outcomes. We discuss results from recent studies, the causality and potential underlying mechanisms of observed associations and challenges for future epidemiological studies. Summary: Evidence from observational studies strongly suggests that maternal pre-pregnancy obesity and excessive gestational weight gain are associated with increased risks of fetal pregnancy complications and adverse childhood cardio-metabolic, respiratory and cognitive-related health outcomes. It remains unclear whether these associations are due to intrauterine mechanisms or explained by confounding family-based sociodemographic, lifestyle and genetic factors. The underlying mechanisms have mainly been assessed in animal studies and small human studies, and are yet to be further explored in large human studies. Key Message: Maternal obesity is an important modifiable factor during pregnancy that is associated with a variety of adverse offspring health outcomes. Further studies are needed to explore the causality and underlying mechanisms of the observed associations. Ultimately, preventive strategies focused on reducing maternal obesity and excessive weight gain during pregnancy may reduce common diseases in future generations.
Single-dose ciraparantag safely and completely reverses anticoagulant effects of edoxaban
Authors: Ansell Jack E. , Bakhru Sasha H. , Laulicht Bryan E. , Steiner Solomon S. , Grosso Michael A. , Brown Karen , Dishy Victor , Lanz Hans J. , Mercuri Michele F. , Noveck Robert J. , Costin James C.
Published: November 2016

Of the new direct oral anticoagulants, direct factor Xa inhibitors are limited by the absence of a proven reversal agent. We assessed the safety, tolerability and impact on anticoagulation reversal of ciraparantag (PER977) alone and following a 60 mg dose of the FXa inhibitor edoxaban. Escalating, single IV doses of ciraparantag were administered alone and following a 60 mg oral dose of edoxaban in a double-blind, placebo-controlled fashion to healthy subjects. Serial assessments of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic effects of ciraparantag were performed. Eighty male subjects completed the study. Following edoxaban (60 mg), a single IV dose of ciraparantag (100 to 300 mg) demonstrated full reversal of anticoagulation within 10 minutes and sustained for 24 hours. Fibrin diameter within clots was restored to normal 30 minutes after a single dose of 100 to 300 mg ciraparantag as determined by scanning electron microscopy and change in fibrin diameter quantified by automated image analysis. Potentially related adverse events were periorbital and facial flushing and cool sensation following IV injection of ciraparantag. Renal excretion of ciraparantag metabolite was the main elimination route. There was no evidence of procoagulant activity following ciraparantag as assessed by D-dimer, prothrombin fragments 1.2, and tissue factor pathway inhibitor levels. In conclusion, ciraparantag in healthy subjects is safe and well tolerated with minor, non-dose limiting adverse events. Baseline haemostasis was restored from the anticoagulated state with doses of 100 to 300 mg ciraparantag within 10–30 minutes of administration and sustained for at least 24 hours.

Institution where the work was performed: Duke University Clinical Research Unit, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC USA
One-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter Insertion of an Interatrial Shunt Device for the Management of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Kaye David M. , Hasenfuß Gerd , Neuzil Petr , Post Martijn C. , Doughty Robert , Trochu Jean-Noël , Kolodziej Adam , Westenfeld Ralf , Penicka Martin , Rosenberg Mark , Walton Antony , Muller David , Walters Darren , Hausleiter Jorg , Raake Philip , Petrie Mark C. , Bergmann Martin , Jondeau Guillaume , Feldman Ted , Veldhuisen Dirk J. van , Ponikowski Piotr , Silvestry Frank E. , Burkhoff Dan , Hayward Christopher
Published: November 2016

Background—

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction has a complex pathophysiology and remains a therapeutic challenge. Elevated left atrial pressure, particularly during exercise, is a key contributor to morbidity and mortality. Preliminary analyses have demonstrated that a novel interatrial septal shunt device that allows shunting to reduce the left atrial pressure provides clinical and hemodynamic benefit at 6 months. Given the chronicity of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, evidence of longer-term benefit is required.

Methods and Results—

Patients (n=64) with left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40%, New York Heart Association class II–IV, elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (≥15 mm Hg at rest or ≥25 mm Hg during supine bicycle exercise) participated in the open-label study of the interatrial septal shunt device. One year after interatrial septal shunt device implantation, there were sustained improvements in New York Heart Association class (
P
<0.001), quality of life (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure score,
P
<0.001), and 6-minute walk distance (
P
<0.01). Echocardiography showed a small, stable reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (
P
<0.001), with a concomitant small stable increase in the right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (
P
<0.001). Invasive hemodynamic studies performed in a subset of patients demonstrated a sustained reduction in the workload corrected exercise pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (
P
<0.01). Survival at 1 year was 95%, and there was no evidence of device-related complications.

Conclusions—

These results provide evidence of safety and sustained clinical benefit in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients 1 year after interatrial septal shunt device implantation. Randomized, blinded studies are underway to confirm these observations.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01913613.
Consensus or Disharmony in African Philosophy Conversations?
Authors: Ndofirepi Amasa Philip
Published: November 2016

This philosophical paper enters the contested arena of the African Philosophy debate in which scholars have been engaging each other from the late 1950s to this date. African Philosophy, as a movement, attempts to assert and affirm the identity and dignity of Africans, who felt insulted, despised, and trodden by western ideologies and worldviews. Practitioners in African philosophy in contemporary times have developed fundamental interest in, often much to their frustration, the existence and nature of an African philosophy. On the other hand, non-Africans (including Africans of western persuasion) have often raised questions about African philosophy’s existence resulting in an embedded dismissal of Africa and African thought systems. This paper surveys and synthesises the murky conversations on the nature and character of African Philosophy in an effort to expose some of the areas of consensus and disharmony.
How Important are Value Orientations to Environmental Concern? A Comparison of National and International Tourists in Malaysia
Authors: Ghazvini Seyed Ahmad Moumen , Kian Lim Lay , Sarmento João
Published: November 2016

Environmental beliefs, intentions, and behaviors can be derived from three types of values, namely, egoistic, altruistic, and biospheric. Consequently, the understanding of tourists’ value orientations and their association with environmental concern is crucial for improving productive strategies in the management of natural resources and protected areas. This study aims to scrutinize the priorities of tripartite value orientation between national (Malaysian) and international tourists (mostly European), and to investigate the contribution of these three value orientations to tourists’ environmental concern. Results disclose that Malaysian tourists valorize egoistic values more than tourists from Europe and other developed countries and are thus less concerned about the environment compared with their international counterparts. Furthermore, egoistic values have a strong negative relationship with environmental concern, whereas altruistic and biospheric values are positively related to this variable.
The Different Contribution of Productive Factors to Economic Growth in mena Countries
Authors: Pablo-Romero María del P. , Sánchez-Braza Antonio , Bouznit Mohammed
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to analyse the extent to which different productive factors, and the relationships that exist between them, affect the economic growth of productivity in ten Middle Eastern and North African (mena) countries during the period 1990-2010. A translog production function is estimated by using panel data and the contribution of the factors to growth is calculated. The results show a positive effect of the physical and human capital on productivity and high complementarity relationships between them, both factors being essential in determining economic growth. However, the magnitude of their contribution varies substantially between the ten countries considered. Thus, the capitalisation of the economies and the improvement of the human capital seem to be key policy elements of economic growth in these countries. Nevertheless, a considerable part of the economic growth cannot be explained by these factors, particularly in Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.
Falcão Junior, M.J.A., Pinto, R.B. & Mansano, V.F. (2016) A Taxonomic Revision of the genus Dialium (Leguminosae: Dialiinae) in the Neotropics. Phytotaxa 283 (2): 123–142.
Authors: JUNIOR MARCUS JOSÉ DE AZEVEDO FALCÃO , PINTO RAFAEL BARBOSA , MANSANO VIDAL DE FREITAS
Published: November 2016

N/A
Review of Waltzoyphius McCafferty & Lugo-Ortiz, 1995 and Zelusia Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty, 1998 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)
Authors: SALLES FREDERICO FALCÃO , ANGELI KAMILA BATISTA , JACOBUS LUKE M.
Published: November 2016

The genera Waltzoyphius McCafferty & Lugo-Ortiz and Zelusia Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty are revised in the present paper based on fresh and historical material, including types. New diagnostic features are presented in order to differentiate nymphs of the two species of Waltzoyphius. The adults of both species, and therefore, the adults of the genus are described for the first time. A new species of Zelusia is described, and based on the recognition of this new species, the distribution of Z. principalis Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty appears to be restricted to a small area near the type locality. Adults of Zelusia are also described for the first time, based on the new species.
Spatial heterogeneity and habitat permanence affect community assembly, structure and phenology of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) in sandpit pools
Authors: SROKA PAVEL , KLECKA JAN , BOUKAL DAVID S.
Published: November 2016

Spatial heterogeneity is a factor generally considered to promote biodiversity of a given habitat. We studied a colonization of isolated, newly formed pools with different heterogeneity levels (with and without artificial vegetation) and permanence (temporary and permanent). Using mayflies (Ephemeroptera) as a model group, we estimated the effect of spatial heterogeneity on the mayfly community assembly. We found the vegetated pools to host higher species diversity and abundance. Only one species was more abundant in the pools without vegetation. Since the mayfly larvae could not migrate between treatments, differences must be caused either by preferences in female oviposition or different levels of mortality among the treatments. We recorded slightly faster and more synchronized larval development in the non-permanent pools, attributable to the temperature and hydrologic regime.
Influence of food availability, predation risk and initial body size on growth and maturation of Cloeon dipterum (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)
Authors: ŠUPINA JAN , BOJKOVÁ JINDŘIŠKA , BOUKAL DAVID S.
Published: November 2016

Larval growth and maturation in aquatic insects are phenotypically plastic and can change in response to the amount and quality of resources, or under predation risk. While better food conditions typically lead to faster growth and earlier maturation at larger body size and hence higher fecundity, the effects of predation risk can vary depending on its strength and selectivity with respect to size or stage. Studies on lotic mayflies (Ephemeroptera) have reported two direct and two indirect life history responses to increased predation risk: slower growth rate and later maturation at the same or smaller size, and faster or unaltered growth rate and earlier maturation at smaller body size. However, life history responses of standing water mayflies to predation risk are unknown. To fill this gap, we carried out a full-factorial laboratory experiment to study the influence of food availability (full/reduced) and predation risk (present/absent predator cues) by dragonfly larvae on growth and maturation of larvae of the lentic mayfly Cloeon dipterum. Males and females responded similarly to food limitation and predation risk. Predation risk had no effect on maturation size, larval mortality and metamorphic failure. However, growth rate, number of moults and development time were all affected by predation risk, and its net effect was modified by food availability and initial body size of the larvae. These results suggest that life history responses to suboptimal conditions depend on body size at the onset of such conditions. Finally, a small group of larvae grew at much slower rates and developed much longer than other individuals of similar initial size, possibly due to bet-hedging or inclusion of multiple genotypes in the experiment.
On the taxonomy of the genus Acronicta (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). III. Acronicta lutea species group
Authors: VOLYNKIN ANTON V. , STÜNING DIETER , MATOV ALEXEJ YU.
Published: November 2016

The present paper is the third in a series of articles on the genus Acronicta Ochsenheimer, 1816 (Volynkin et al. 2015; Volynkin 2015). Here we focus on the taxonomy of the Acronicta lutea species group, designating the lectotype of Acronicta lutea (Bremer & Grey, 1852), revising synonym status of Acronycta metaxantha funesta Draudt, 1950 and Pharetra leucoptera Butler, 1881, transferring Acronicta nigricans (Leech, 1900) to the subgenus Viminia Chapman, 1890 and introducing the new synonymy A. nigricans = Acronicta regifica Draudt, 1937 syn. n.
Myocoptid mites (Acariformes: Myocoptidae) of the fauna of the former USSR
Authors: BOCHKOV ANDRE V
Published: November 2016

Mites of the family Myocoptidae (Acariformes: Sarcoptoidea) of the former USSR are revised based on the collection of the Zoological Institute RAS (St. Petersburg, Russia). Seventeen described species are recorded. Four species are described as new for science: Trichoecius dubininae sp. nov. from Lasiopodomys gregalis (Pallas) (Rodentia: Cricetidae) from Russia (Chelyabinsk Prov., type locality), Kazakhstan and Kirghizia, T. lemmus sp. nov. from Lemmus sibiricus (Kerr) (Rodentia: Cricetidae) from Russia (Taymyr peninsula), T. meriones sp. nov. from Meriones meridianus (Pallas) (Rodentia: Muridae) from Turkmenia, and Myocoptes meriones sp. nov. from Meriones tamariscinus (type host) from Kirghizia (type locality) and Meriones libycus (Lichtenstein) from Tajikistan. In addition, the presence of 7 more species in the fauna of the former USSR is considered highly probable. Myocoptids of the former USSR represent all 6 genera currently recognized in the family. Keys to species, their hosts and localities are provided and all data are summarized in tabular format. A new name Apocalyptoides nom. nov. is proposed for the preoccupied generic name Apocalypsis Bochkov, 2010 not Butler (1876).
Review of the genus Signoretia (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Signoretiinae) of the Oriental region with description of nine new species
Authors: VIRAKTAMATH C.A.
Published: November 2016

Species of Signoretia Stål from the Oriental region are reviewed and types of five species described by Baker, two species described by Distant and one species described by Schmidt are illustrated. A checklist of 20 species of the genus from the Oriental region including 9 new species is given. The new species described and illustrated are Signoretia dulitensis sp. nov. (Malaysia: Mt Dulit), S. lunglei sp. nov. (India: Mizoram), S. mishmiensis sp. nov. (Myanmar: Mishmi Hills), S. quoinensis sp. nov. (Malaysia: Quoin Hill), S. rubra sp. nov. (Thailand: Chiang Mai), S. sahyadrica sp. nov. (India: Kerala), S. similaris sp. nov. (Vietnam: Fyan), S. sinuata sp. nov. (India: West Bengal) and S. takiyae sp. nov. (India: Andaman Is.). Both S. aureola Distant and S. maculata Baker are redescribed and illustrated. Lectotypes are designated for S. greeni Distant and S. aureola Distant.
Review of the leafhopper genus Alnetoidia Dlabola (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Erythroneurini) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Authors: CAO YANGHUI , YANG MEIXIA , ZHANG YALIN
Published: November 2016

Generic characteristics of genus Alnetoidia Dlabola are revised based on study of nine species from China, including two new species: A. (Alnetoidia) gracilis, A. (Alnella) dentata spp. nov., and four new records to China. A key to species for identification of Chinese adult males is provided.
Mesonets: Mesoscale Weather and Climate Observations for the United States
Authors: Mahmood Rezaul , Boyles Ryan , Brinson Kevin , Fiebrich Christopher , Foster Stuart , Hubbard Ken , Robinson David , Andresen Jeff , Leathers Dan
Published: November 2016

Mesoscale in situ meteorological observations are essential for better understanding and forecasting the weather and climate and to aid in decision-making by a myriad of stakeholder communities. They include, for example, state environmental and emergency management agencies, the commercial sector, media, agriculture, and the general public. Over the last three decades, a number of mesoscale weather and climate observation networks have become operational. These networks are known as mesonets. Most are operated by universities and receive different levels of funding. It is important to communicate the current status and critical roles the mesonets play.

Most mesonets collect standard meteorological data and in many cases ancillary near-surface data within both soil and water bodies. Observations are made by a relatively spatially dense array of stations, mostly at subhourly time scales. Data are relayed via various means of communication to mesonet offices, with derived products typically distributed in tabular, graph, and map formats in near–real time via the World Wide Web. Observed data and detailed metadata are also carefully archived.

To ensure the highest-quality data, mesonets conduct regular testing and calibration of instruments and field technicians make site visits based on “maintenance tickets” and prescheduled frequencies. Most mesonets have developed close partnerships with a variety of local, state, and federal-level entities. The overall goal is to continue to maintain these networks for high-quality meteorological and climatological data collection, distribution, and decision-support tool development for the public good, education, and research.
A Numerical Weather Model’s Ability to Predict Characteristics of Aircraft Icing Environments
Authors: Thompson Gregory , Politovich Marcia K. , Rasmussen Roy M.
Published: November 2016

Recent advances in high-performance computing have enabled higher-resolution numerical weather models with increasingly complex data assimilation and more accurate physical parameterizations. With respect to aircraft and ground icing applications, a weather model’s cloud physics scheme is responsible for the direct forecasts of the water phase and amount and is a critical ingredient to forecasting future icing conditions. In this paper, numerical model results are compared with aircraft observations taken during icing research flights, and the general characteristics of liquid water content, median volume diameter, droplet concentration, and temperature within aircraft icing environments are evaluated. The comparison reveals very promising skill by the model in predicting these characteristics consistent with observations. The application of model results to create explicit forecasts of ice accretion rates for an example case of aircraft and ground icing is shown.
Organic or Deliberate
Authors: Read Stuart
Published: November 2016

The impetus for understanding where novelty comes from in the environment is clear. Entrepreneurs create new jobs for themselves, new offerings for customers and broader economic and social benefits for society at large. The difficult part comes in understanding the source of this novelty well enough that it might be instrumented, managed and encouraged. The companion essay to this one ( Applying the Ecosystem Metaphor to Entrepreneurship: Uses and Abuses) adopts a perspective that ecosystems create entrepreneurs, and thus effort need be applied to creating ecosystems. I reverse the causality. Arguing for the agency of creative entrepreneurs, I suggest a view of environments as outcomes, and entrepreneurs as inputs. Building on this alternative perspective, it makes sense to direct effort toward creating entrepreneurs such that they might go on to create that broader slate of artifacts we so desire in the environment, including environments themselves.
Different Entrepreneurial Ventures for Greater Societal Value
Authors: Kuratko Donald F.
Published: November 2016

Although the importance of entrepreneurship is evident and interest continues to grow, high-growth ventures tend to be featured because they produce a significant amount of job and wealth creation in the United States. Some have argued that the focus of public policy should be on these ventures, while others argue for a more diverse approach to effective public policy and entrepreneurship. This article offers a “portfolio approach” to public policy that focuses on the types of entrepreneurial ventures that demonstrate the epitome of competition and provide the greatest societal value. The types of ventures may be classified in terms of size (microenterprise, small/lifestyle, medium size, and gazelle) and growth rate (low, managed, or fast growth). Each type has different needs and makes unique contributions to the economic vitality and value of society.
The View from the Shop—Antitrust and the Decline of America’s Independent Businesses
Authors: Mitchell Stacy
Published: November 2016

Small businesses have declined sharply in both numbers and market share across many sectors of the economy. There is evidence that this decline is owed in part to anticompetitive behavior by dominant firms, which have used their market power to disadvantage smaller competitors and exclude new entrants. These abuses have gone unchecked because of changes in the ideological framework guiding antitrust enforcement. About thirty-five years ago, policy makers came to view maximizing efficiency, rather than maintaining fair and open markets for all competitors, as the paramount goal of antitrust. There are at least three reasons to bring a commitment to small businesses and fair markets back into antitrust policy: small businesses deliver distinct consumer benefits, contribute to a more equitable distribution of income and opportunity, and safeguard democracy.
Entrepreneurship, Competition, and Economic Development
Authors: Matusik Sharon F.
Published: November 2016

Entrepreneurial activity leads to the development and exploitation of new ways to do business, which in turn promotes competition either as a firm enters a market where there are other existing firms, or when it creates a new way (substitute) to meet the needs of its customers. This essay discusses indirect outcomes associated with these entrepreneurial activities, specifically in the form of knowledge spillovers, economic renewal, consumer surplus, and social value creation. In sum, entrepreneurship and the competition it engenders can create direct and indirect benefits to the entrepreneurs themselves, prospective employees, consumers, competitors, and localities and governments. Further, this essay notes that while most efforts to encourage entrepreneurial activity focuses on formal policy levers such as financial investment, public support programs, and tax and regulatory policy, it is also important to consider informal institutions and how they inhibit or encourage such activity.
Optical Spectroscopic Analysis for the Discrimination of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: McReynolds Naomi , Auñón Garcia Juan M. , Guengerich Zoe , Smith Terry K. , Dholakia Kishan
Published: November 2016

We demonstrate the ability to discriminate between five brands of commercially available extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) using Raman spectroscopy or fluorescence spectroscopy. Data was taken on both a ‘bulk optics’ free space system and on a compact handheld device, each capable of taking both Raman and fluorescence data. With the compact Raman device we achieved an average sensitivity and specificity of 98.4% and 99.6% for discrimination, respectively. Our approach illustrates that both Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy can be used for portable discrimination of EVOOs. This technique may enable detection of EVOO that has undergone counterfeiting or adulteration. The main challenge with this technique is that oxidation of EVOO causes a shift in the Raman signal over time. It would therefore be necessary to retrain the database regularly. We demonstrate preliminary data to address this issue, which may enable successful discrimination over time. We show that by discarding the first principal component, which contains information on the variations due to oxidation, we can improve discrimination efficiency.