bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Quantification of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3and 24,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3in Rats Shows Strong Correlations between Serum and Brain Tissue Levels
Authors: Xue Ying , He Xin , Li Huan-De , Deng Yang , Yan Miao , Cai Hua-Lin , Tang Mi-Mi , Dang Rui-Li , Jiang Pei
Published: December 2015

While vitamin D3is recognized as a neuroactive steroid affecting both brain development and function, efficient analytical method in determining vitamin D3metabolites in the brain tissue is still lacking, and the relationship of vitamin D3status between serum and brain remains elusive. Therefore, we developed a novel analysis method by using high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) to simultaneously quantify the concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3(25(OH)D3) and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3(24,25(OH)2D3) in the serum and brain of rats fed with different dose of vitamin D3. We further investigated whether variations of serum vitamin D3metabolites could affect vitamin D3metabolite levels in the brain. Serum and brain tissue were analyzed by HPLC-MS/MS with electrospray ionization following derivatization with 4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione (PTAD). The method is highly sensitive, specific, and accurate to quantify 25(OH)D3and 24,25(OH)2D3in animal brain tissue. Vitamin D3metabolites in brain tissue were significantly lower in rats fed with a vitamin D deficiency diet than in rats fed with high vitamin D3diet. There was also a strong correlation of vitamin D3metabolites in serum and brain. These results indicate that vitamin D3status in serum affects bioavailability of vitamin D3metabolites in the brain.
Surgical Treatment and Prognosis of Angiosarcoma of the Scalp: A Retrospective Analysis of 14 Patients in a Single Institution
Authors: Choi Jun Ho , Ahn Kyung Chan , Chang Hak , Minn Kyung Won , Jin Ung Sik , Kim Byung Jun
Published: December 2015

Objective. We describe specific surgical methods for angiosarcoma regarding extent of resection and reconstructive options and assess their effect on patients’ prognosis.Patients and Methods. We retrospectively examined 14 patients undergoing treatment for angiosarcoma of the scalp at our institute between January 2000 and June 2015. Surgical treatment comprised wide excision of the tumor and reconstruction using a free flap with skin graft. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to assess the survival parameters. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the association between risk factors and outcome parameters.Results. Mean patient age at diagnosis was 69 years, and the mean follow-up period was 17 months. The overall 5- and 2-year survival rates were 15% and 75%, respectively, whereas the 5- and 2-year disease-free survival rates were 7.7% and 38.7%, respectively. The mean survival duration was 32 months. Metastatic tumor dissemination to the lung or brain was closely associated with the major cause of death. Only a deep excision margin was significantly related to the recurrence rate.Conclusions. Cases of angiosarcoma had a poor prognosis despite the aggressive treatments. Sufficient resection margins are essential for controlling local recurrence. The effect of multidisciplinary approaches needs to be explored.
Rapid Screening for Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dong YanHong , Koay Way Inn , Yeo Leonard Leong Litt , Chen Christopher Li-Hsian , Xu Jing , Seet Raymond Chee Seong , Lim Erle Chuen Hian
Published: December 2015

Aim. This study sought to establish the discriminant validity of a rapid cognitive screen, that is, the National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke-Canadian Stroke Network (NINDS-CSN) 5-minute protocol, and compare its discriminant validity to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) in detecting cognitive impairment (CI) in PD patients.Methods. One hundred and one PD patients were recruited from a movement disorders clinic in Singapore and they received the NINDS-CSN 5-minute protocol, MoCA, and MMSE. No cognitive impairment (NCI) was defined as Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) = 0 and CI was defined as CDR ≥ 0.5.Results. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of NINDS-CSN 5-minute protocol was statistically equivalent to MoCA and larger than MMSE (0.86 versus 0.90,P=0.07; 0.86 versus 0.76,P=0.03). The sensitivity of NINDS-CSN 5-minute protocol (<9) was statistically equivalent to MoCA (<22) (0.77 versus 0.85,P=0.13) and superior to MMSE (<24) (0.77 versus 0.52,P<0.01) in detecting CI, while the specificity of NINDS-CSN 5-minute protocol (<9) was statistically equivalent to MoCA (<22) and MMSE (<24) (0.78 versus 0.88,P=0.34).Conclusion. The NINDS-CSN 5-minute protocol is time expeditious while remaining statistically equivalent to MoCA and superior to MMSE and therefore is suitable for rapid cognitive screening of CI in PD patients.
Expression of MicroRNAs in the Eyes of Lewis Rats with Experimental Autoimmune Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Hsu Yung-Ray , Chang Shu-Wen , Lin Yu-Cheng , Yang Chang-Hao
Published: December 2015

Purpose. This study aimed to determine the dynamic changes of NF‐κB‐related microRNAs (miRNAs) and cytokines over the course of experimental autoimmune anterior uveitis (EAAU) and elucidate the possible immunopathogenesis. Materials and Methods. Uveitis was induced in Lewis rats using bovine melanin‐associated antigen. The inflammatory activity of the anterior chamber was clinically scored, and leukocytes in the aqueous humor were quantified. RNA was extracted from the iris/ciliary bodies and popliteal lymph nodes to reveal the dynamic changes of eight target miRNAs (miR‐155‐5p, miR‐146a‐5p, miR‐182‐5p, miR‐183‐5p, miR‐147b, miR‐21‐5p, miR‐9‐3p, and miR‐223‐3p) and six cytokine mRNAs (IFN‐γ, IL‐17, IL‐12A, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐10). In situ hybridization of miRNA and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay quantification of cytokines were performed to confirm the results. Results. Disease activity and leukocyte quantification were maximum at day 15 after immunization. The profiling of miRNA revealed downregulation of miR‐146a‐5p, miR‐155‐5p, miR‐223‐3p, and miR‐147b and upregulation of miR‐182‐5p, miR‐183‐5p, and miR‐9‐3p. Cytokine analysis revealed IFN‐γ, IL‐17, IL‐12A, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 overexpression, with IL‐10 downregulation. Conclusions. Dynamic changes of miRNAs were observed over the course of EAAU. By initiating NF‐κB signaling, the expressions of downstream cytokines and effector cells from the Th17 and Th1 lineages were sequentially activated, contributing to the disease.
Control Strategy of Three-Phase Photovoltaic Inverter under Low-Voltage Ride-Through Condition
Authors: Wang Xianbo , Yang Zhixin , Fan Bo , Xu Wei
Published: December 2015

The new energy promoting community has recently witnessed a surge of developments in photovoltaic power generation technologies. To fulfill the grid code requirement of photovoltaic inverter under low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) condition, by utilizing the asymmetry feature of grid voltage, this paper aims to control both restraining negative sequence current and reactive power fluctuation on grid side to maintain balanced output of inverter. Two mathematical inverter models of grid-connected inverter containing LCL grid-side filter under both symmetrical and asymmetric grid are proposed. PR controller method is put forward based on inverter model under asymmetric grid. To ensure the stable operation of the inverter, grid voltage feedforward method is introduced to restrain current shock at the moment of voltage drop. Stable grid-connected operation and LVRT ability at grid drop have been achieved via a combination of rapid positive and negative sequence component extraction of accurate grid voltage synchronizing signals. Simulation and experimental results have verified the superior effectiveness of our proposed control strategy.
Controlling Factors of the Stable Isotope Composition in the Precipitation of Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Shakir , Xianfang Song , Hussain Iqtidar , Jianrong Liu , Dong Mei Han , Li Hu Yang , Huang Wei
Published: December 2015

Significant temporal variations inδ18O and deuterium isotopes were found in the rainfall water of Islamabad, Pakistan, over a 15-year period (1992–2006). The data were obtained from the International Atomic Energy Agency/Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation (IAEA/GNIP) database, and statistical correlations were investigated. In particular, this study provides the first detailed analysis of GNIP data for Islamabad. Both dry (1999-2000) and wet years (1994, 1997, and 2000) were chosen to investigate the correlations between precipitation amount, vapor flux, and temperature. We observed obvious differences between the dry and wet years and among seasons as well. Long-term features in the isotope composition agreed with the global meteorological water line, whereas short-term values followed rainfall amounts; that is, a total of 72% of the precipitation’s isotopic signature was dependent on the rainfall amount, and temperature controlled 73% of the isotopic features during October to May. The lowerd-excess values were attributed to conditions during the spring season and a secondary evaporation boost during dry years; precipitation originating from the Mediterranean Sea showed highd-excess values. Overall, the results of this study contribute to the understanding of precipitation variations and their association with water vapor transport over Islamabad, Pakistan.
PPARs: Protectors or Opponents of Myocardial Function?
Authors: Pol Christine J. , Lieu Melissa , Drosatos Konstantinos
Published: December 2015

Over 5 million people in the United States suffer from the complications of heart failure (HF), which is a rapidly expanding health complication. Disorders that contribute to HF include ischemic cardiac disease, cardiomyopathies, and hypertension. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear receptor family. There are three PPAR isoforms: PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARδ. They can be activated by endogenous ligands, such as fatty acids, as well as by pharmacologic agents. Activators of PPARs are used for treating several metabolic complications, such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia that are directly or indirectly associated with HF. However, some of these drugs have adverse effects that compromise cardiac function. This review article aims to summarize the current basic and clinical research findings of the beneficial or detrimental effects of PPAR biology on myocardial function.
Gestational Gigantomastia Complicating Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rezai Shadi , Nakagawa Jenna T. , Tedesco John , Chadee Annika , Gottimukkala Sri , Mercado Ray , Henderson Cassandra E.
Published: December 2015

Background. Gestational gigantomastia is a rare disorder without clear etiology or well-established risk factors. Several pathogenic mechanisms contributing to the disease process have been proposed, all of which can lead to a similar phenotype of breast hypertrophy.Case. A 28-year-old Guinean woman presented at 37 weeks of gestation with bilateral gigantomastia, mastalgia, peau d’orange, and back pain. Prolactin levels were 103.3 μg/L (with a normal reference value for prolactin in pregnancy being 36–372 μg/L). The patient was treated with bromocriptine (2.5 mg twice daily), scheduled for a repeat cesarean, and referred to surgery for bilateral mammoplasty.Conclusion. Gestational gigantomastia is a rare disorder, characterized by enlargement and hypertrophy of breast tissue. Our patient presented with no endocrine or hematological abnormalities, adding to a review of the literature for differential diagnoses, workup, and management of cases of gestational gigantomastia with normal hormone levels.
Novel Spatiotemporal Filter for Dim Point Targets Detection in Infrared Image Sequences
Authors: Li Zhaohui , Wang Xiaorui , Zhang Jianqi , Liu Delian
Published: December 2015

Dim point target detection is of great importance in both civil and military fields. In this paper a novel spatiotemporal filter is proposed to incorporate both the spatial and temporal features of moving dim point targets. Since targets are expected to be detected as far as possible, in this situation, they have no texture features in spatial dimensions, appearing like isolated points. Based on the attributes, potential targets are extracted by searching the local maximum point in a sliding window. And the potential targets are then correlated based on target moving patterns. After combining local maximum points and target moving patterns, structure background in infrared scene is removed. Next, the temporal profiles of infrared sense are reviewed and examined. By a new max-median filter performing on temporal profiles, the intensity of target pulse signal is extracted. Finally, each temporal profile is divided into several pieces to estimate the variance of the temporal profiles, which leads to a new detection metric. The proposed approach is tested via several infrared image sequences. The results show that our proposed method can significantly reduce the complex background in aerial infrared image sequence and have a good detection performance.
Dynamic Parameter Identification of Hydrodynamic Bearing-Rotor System
Authors: Song Zhiqiang , Liu Yunhe
Published: December 2015

A new method called modal parameter genetic time domain identification was employed to study the characteristics of the bearing-rotor system. A multifrequency signal decomposition technology to identify the main components of the measured signal and reject the image mode produced by noise has been used. The first- and second-order natural frequency and damping ratios of the shaft system are identified. Furthermore, because of the deficiency of the traditional least square method, a new genetic identification method to identify the bearing dynamic characteristic parameters has been proposed. The method has been effective albeit with few testing points and operation cases. The derivation of oil-film dynamic coefficients could also provide a basis for shaft system natural vibration characteristic and vibration response analysis. Using the identified dynamic coefficients as the supporting condition, the shaft system modal characteristics were studied. The calculated first- and second-order natural frequencies match quite well those obtained from the modal parameter identification. It was proved that the modal parameter and physical parameter identification methods utilized in this paper are reasonable.
Multiscale and Multitopic Sparse Representation for Multisensor Infrared Image Superresolution
Authors: Yang Xiaomin , Liu Kai , Gan Zhongliang , Yan Binyu
Published: December 2015

Methods based on sparse coding have been successfully used in single-image superresolution (SR) reconstruction. However, the traditional sparse representation-based SR image reconstruction for infrared (IR) images usually suffers from three problems. First, IR images always lack detailed information. Second, a traditional sparse dictionary is learned from patches with a fixed size, which may not capture the exact information of the images and may ignore the fact that images naturally come at different scales in many cases. Finally, traditional sparse dictionary learning methods aim at learning a universal and overcomplete dictionary. However, many different local structural patterns exist. One dictionary is inadequate in capturing all of the different structures. We propose a novel IR image SR method to overcome these problems. First, we combine the information from multisensors to improve the resolution of the IR image. Then, we use multiscale patches to represent the image in a more efficient manner. Finally, we partition the natural images into documents and group such documents to determine the inherent topics and to learn the sparse dictionary of each topic. Extensive experiments validate that using the proposed method yields better results in terms of quantitation and visual perception than many state-of-the-art algorithms.
The CDK9 Inhibitor Dinaciclib Exerts Potent Apoptotic and Antitumor Effects in Preclinical Models of MLL-Rearranged Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Baker Adele , Gregory Gareth P. , Verbrugge Inge , Kats Lev , Hilton Joshua J. , Vidacs Eva , Lee Erwin M. , Lock Richard B. , Zuber Johannes , Shortt Jake , Johnstone Ricky W.
Published: December 2015

Translocations of the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene occur in 60% to 80% of all infant acute leukemias and are markers of poor prognosis. MLL-AF9 and other MLL fusion proteins aberrantly recruit epigenetic regulatory proteins, including histone deacetylases (HDAC), histone methyltransferases, bromodomain-containing proteins, and transcription elongation factors to mediate chromatin remodeling and regulate tumorigenic gene expression programs. We conducted a small-molecule inhibitor screen to test the ability of candidate pharmacologic agents targeting epigenetic and transcriptional regulatory proteins to induce apoptosis in leukemic cells derived from genetically engineered mouse models of MLL-AF9–driven acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We found that the CDK inhibitor dinaciclib and HDAC inhibitor panobinostat were the most potent inducers of apoptosis in short-term in vitro assays. Treatment of MLL-rearranged leukemic cells with dinaciclib resulted in rapidly decreased expression of the prosurvival protein Mcl-1, and accordingly, overexpression of Mcl-1 protected AML cells from dinaciclib-induced apoptosis. Administration of dinaciclib to mice bearing MLL-AF9–driven human and mouse leukemias elicited potent antitumor responses and significantly prolonged survival. Collectively, these studies highlight a new therapeutic approach to potentially overcome the resistance of MLL-rearranged AML to conventional chemotherapies and prompt further clinical evaluation of CDK inhibitors in AML patients harboring MLL fusion proteins. Cancer Res; 76(5); 1158–69. ©2015 AACR.
Identification of Variant-Specific Functions of PIK3CA by Rapid Phenotyping of Rare Mutations
Authors: Dogruluk Turgut , Tsang Yiu Huen , Espitia Maribel , Chen Fengju , Chen Tenghui , Chong Zechen , Appadurai Vivek , Dogruluk Armel , Eterovic Agna Karina , Bonnen Penelope E. , Creighton Chad J. , Chen Ken , Mills Gordon B. , Scott Kenneth L.
Published: December 2015

Large-scale sequencing efforts are uncovering the complexity of cancer genomes, which are composed of causal “driver” mutations that promote tumor progression along with many more pathologically neutral “passenger” events. The majority of mutations, both in known cancer drivers and uncharacterized genes, are generally of low occurrence, highlighting the need to functionally annotate the long tail of infrequent mutations present in heterogeneous cancers. Here we describe a mutation assessment pipeline enabled by high-throughput engineering of molecularly barcoded gene variant expression clones identified by tumor sequencing. We first used this platform to functionally assess tail mutations observed in PIK3CA, which encodes the catalytic subunit alpha of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) frequently mutated in cancer. Orthogonal screening for PIK3CA variant activity using in vitro and in vivo cell growth and transformation assays differentiated driver from passenger mutations, revealing that PIK3CA variant activity correlates imperfectly with its mutation frequency across breast cancer populations. Although PIK3CA mutations with frequencies above 5% were significantly more oncogenic than wild-type in all assays, mutations occurring at 0.07% to 5.0% included those with and without oncogenic activities that ranged from weak to strong in at least one assay. Proteomic profiling coupled with therapeutic sensitivity assays on PIK3CA variant-expressing cell models revealed variant-specific activation of PI3K signaling as well as other pathways that include the MEK1/2 module of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Our data indicate that cancer treatments will need to increasingly consider the functional relevance of specific mutations in driver genes rather than considering all mutations in drivers as equivalent. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5341–54. ©2015 AACR.
Essential Components of Cancer Education
Authors: Welch Danny R. , Antalis Toni M. , Burnstein Kerry , Vona-Davis Linda , Jensen Roy A. , Nakshatri Harikrishna , Riegel Anna T. , Spitz Douglas R. , Watson Dennis K. , Weiner George J.
Published: December 2015

Modern cancer therapy/care involves the integration of basic, clinical, and population-based research professionals using state-of-the-art science to achieve the best possible patient outcomes. A well-integrated team of basic, clinical, and population science professionals and educators working with a fully engaged group of creative junior investigators and trainees provides a structure to achieve these common goals. To this end, the structure provided by cancer-focused educational programs can create the integrated culture of academic medicine needed to reduce the burden of cancer on society. This summary outlines fundamental principles and potential best practice strategies for the development of integrated educational programs directed at achieving a work force of professionals that broadly appreciate the principals of academic medicine spanning the breadth of knowledge necessary to advance the goal of improving the current practice of cancer care medicine. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5202–5. ©2015 AACR.
Vitamin A Deficiency Presenting with ‘Itchy Eyes'
Authors: Lee Matthew Hao , Sarossy Marc G. , Zamir Ehud
Published: December 2015

We present the case of an 88-year-old female living in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia who developed vitamin A deficiency manifesting as ‘itchy eyes' due to a bizarre dietary habit. Slit lamp examination revealed Bitot's spots and a subsequent vitamin A serum level test revealed severe deficiency. An electroretinogram showed grossly reduced a- and b-wave amplitudes consistent with generalised rod and cone dysfunction - these parameters showed marked improvement 5 months post supplementation. This case highlights the presence of vitamin A deficiency in the developed world and that a careful dietary history should be taken when assessing a patient complaining of ‘itchy eyes'. Timely diagnosis and treatment may result in dramatic resolution of symptoms and signs as well as prevention of serious morbidity.
Ranibizumab for High-Risk Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: An Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Figueira João , Silva Rufino , Henriques José , Caldeira Rosa Paulo , Laíns Inês , Melo Pedro , Gonçalves Nunes Sandrina , Cunha-Vaz José
Published: December 2015

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) in monotherapy or associated with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) versus conventional PRP, for high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) without vitreoretinal traction. Procedures: Multicenter randomized trial, with 3 treatment arms: PRP versus IVR alone and PRP + IVR combined treatment. Follow-up was performed at months 3, 6 and 12. Results: Thirty-five subjects were randomized and 32 used for analysis. Complete regression of neovessels elsewhere occurred in 100% (PRP + IVR), 75% (IVR) and 69.2% (PRP) and for neovessels of the disk in 44.4% (PRP + IVR), 37.5% (IVR) and 30.8% (PRP). During the 1-year duration of treatment, there was no need for laser rescue treatment in IVR-treated eyes. Conclusions: This trial suggests that the use of IVR is safe and may have a beneficial effect in the treatment of eyes with high-risk PDR. Message: Ranibizumab appears to have a place in the treatment of PDR.
Overview of the Pathogenesis of ANCA-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Xiao Hong , Hu Peiqi , Falk Ronald J. , Jennette J. Charles
Published: December 2015

Background: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) are associated with a spectrum of necrotizing vasculitis including granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and renal-limited necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis. Clinical observations and in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence strongly indicate that ANCA are pathogenic. Summary: The etiology and pathogenesis of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) are multifactorial, with contributions from genetic factors, environmental exposures, infections, characteristics of the innate and adaptive immune system, and the intensity and duration of the injury. Acute vascular inflammation is induced when resting neutrophils that have ANCA autoantigens sequestered in cytoplasmic granules are exposed to priming factors - for example, cytokines induced by infection or phlogogenic factors released by complement activation - that cause the release of ANCA antigens on the surface of neutrophils and in the microenvironment around the neutrophils. ANCA bind to these ANCA antigens, which activates neutrophils by Fcγ receptor engagement and F(ab′)2 binding at the neutrophil cell surface. ANCA-activated neutrophils release factors that activate the alternative complement pathway, which generates C5a, a chemoattractant for neutrophils; C5a also primes the arriving neutrophils for activation by ANCA. Activated neutrophils adhere to and penetrate vessel walls, and they release toxic oxygen radicals and destructive enzymes that cause apoptosis and necrosis of the neutrophils as well as of the adjacent vessel wall cells and matrix. Key Messages: Patients with active AAV have ongoing asynchronous onsets of countless acute lesions, with each lesion evolving through stereotypical phases within 1 or 2 weeks. Induction of remission results in termination of new waves of acute lesions and allows all lesions to progress to scarring or resolution.
Identidades em campo. Discursos sobre a atuação de jogadores interculturais de origem africana e antilhana na seleção francesa de futebol
Authors: Oliva Anderson Ribeiro
Published: December 2015

O texto tem como objetivo principal analisar parte dos discursos produzidos sobre a participação de atletas interculturais – de origem africana ou antilhana – na seleção francesa de futebol na última década. Partindo dos referenciais teóricos vinculados aos estudos africanos e pós-coloniais, e fruto de uma investigação de maior dimensão, buscamos analisar a forma como a sociedade francesa – com seus conjuntos populacionais híbridos e complexos – fomenta, interpreta e rejeita, a partir das imagens e ideias construídas sobre os imigrantes africanos/antilhanos e seus descendentes, o entendimento acerca de suas identidades e das relações interculturais e multiculturais geradas pelas diásporas pós-coloniais. Selecionamos, para uma reflexão inicial, notícias veiculadas pela imprensa francesa e europeia sobre a atuação de atletas interculturais na seleção francesa após o campeonato mundial da África do Sul, em 2010.

 
André do Couto Godinho: homem preto, formado em Coimbra, missionário no Congo em fins do século XVIII
Authors: Reginaldo Lucilene
Published: December 2015

O fio condutor deste texto é a trajetória de um homem de cor livre nascido na vila de Mariana, no ano de 1720, tendo falecido no Reino do Congo, em data desconhecida, provavelmente no último decênio do século XVIII. Entre as Minas Gerais e o Reino do Congo, vários anos vividos em Coimbra e Lisboa demarcaram a trajetória de André do Couto Godinho. A narrativa, aparentemente excepcional, não se restringe entretanto a episódios da vida pessoal de Godinho, ao contrário, trata de coletivos mais amplos, constituindo-se, quiçá, em uma “janela privilegiada” para o mundo dos homens de cor livres em diferentes localidades do Império português, na segunda metade dos Setecentos. Assim, ao seguir os passos de André Godinho, focalizo contextos históricos que dão sentido e podem, ao mesmo tempo, ser reinterpretados à luz das possibilidades, escolhas e limitações que constituíram sua história pessoal.
Resenha do livro 'Península de recelos. Portugal y España, 1668-1715'
Authors: Monteiro Rodrigo Bentes
Published: December 2015

MARTÍN MARCOS, David. Península de recelos. Portugal y España, 1668-1715. Madri: Marcial Pons, 2014.
Apixaban Reduces Hospitalizations in Patients With Venous Thromboembolism: An Analysis of the Apixaban for the Initial Management of Pulmonary Embolism and Deep‐Vein Thrombosis as First‐Line Therapy (AMPLIFY) Trial
Authors: Liu Xianchen , Johnson Margot , Mardekian Jack , Phatak Hemant , Thompson John , Cohen Alexander T.
Published: December 2015

Background

In the Apixaban for the Initial Management of Pulmonary Embolism and Deep‐Vein Thrombosis as First‐Line Therapy (AMPLIFY) trial, apixaban was noninferior to enoxaparin/warfarin in preventing recurrent symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) or venous thromboembolism–related death, with significantly less bleeding. This analysis evaluated the effects of apixaban versus enoxaparin/warfarin on all‐cause hospitalizations during AMPLIFY.

Methods and Results

Of the 5365 patients included, 2676 received apixaban and 2689 received enoxaparin/warfarin. All‐cause hospitalizations during the treatment period after the index event were captured using dedicated case report forms. Outcomes included all‐cause hospitalizations and time from randomization to first hospitalization. Patients were censored at death, loss to follow‐up, or end of study, whichever came first. Treatment effects were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression models. During the treatment period after the index event, 343 patients were hospitalized at least once: 153 (5.72%) in the apixaban group and 190 (7.07%) in the enoxaparin/warfarin group. Compared with enoxaparin/warfarin, apixaban significantly reduced all‐cause hospitalizations (hazard ratio 0.804, 95% CI=0.650–0.995,
P
=0.045). All‐cause hospitalization rates within the first 30 days after the index event were 2.28% and 3.35% in the apixaban and enoxaparin/warfarin groups, respectively (hazard ratio 0.676, 95% CI=0.488–0.935,
P
=0.018). For all patients, the average per‐patient estimated mean length of hospital stay was also shorter with apixaban than enoxaparin/warfarin (0.57 days versus 1.01 days,
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions

Apixaban significantly reduced all‐cause hospitalizations versus enoxaparin/warfarin, and shortened the length of hospital stay in patients with acute venous thromboembolism.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
https://Clinicaltrials.Gov/
. Unique identifier: NCT00643201.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Commercially Available Automated External Defibrillators
Authors: Nishiyama Takahiko , Nishiyama Ako , Negishi Masachika , Kashimura Shin , Katsumata Yoshinori , Kimura Takehiro , Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Tanimoto Yoko , Aizawa Yoshiyasu , Mitamura Hideo , Fukuda Keiichi , Takatsuki Seiji
Published: December 2015

Background

Although automated external defibrillators (
AED
s) have contributed to a better survival of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrests, there have been reports of their malfunctioning. We investigated the diagnostic accuracy of commercially available
AED
s using surface ECGs of ventricular fibrillation (
VF
), ventricular tachycardia (
VT
), and supraventricular tachycardia (
SVT
).

Methods and Results

ECGs(
VF
31,
VT
48,
SVT
97) were stored during electrophysiological studies and transmitted to 4
AED
s, the LifePak
CR
Plus (
CR
Plus), HeartStart
FR
3 (
FR
3), and CardioLife
AED
‐2150 (
CL
2150) and ‐9231 (
CL
9231), through the pad electrode cables. For
VF
, the
CL
2150 and
CL
9231 advised shocks in all cases, and the
CR
Plus and
FR
3 advised shocks in all but one
VF
case. For
VT
s faster than 180 bpm, the ratios for advising shocks were 79%, 36%, 89%, and 96% for the
CR
Plus,
FR
3,
CL
2150, and
CL
9231, respectively. The
FR
3 and
CR
Plus did not advise shocks for narrow
QRS SVT
s, whereas the
CL
9231 tended to treat high‐rate tachycardias faster than 180 bpm even with narrow
QRS
complexes. The characteristics of the shock advice for the
FR
3 differed from that for the
CL
9231 (kappa coefficient [κ]=0.479,
P
<0.001), and the
CR
Plus and
CL
2150 had characteristics somewhere between the 2 former
AED
s (κ=0.818,
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Commercially available
AED
s diagnosed
VF
almost always correctly. For
VT
and
SVT
diagnoses, a discrepancy was evident among the 4 investigated
AED
s. The differences in the arrhythmia diagnosis algorithms for differentiating
SVT
from
VT
were thought to account for these differences.
Prevalence of Depression Among Stroke Survivors
Authors: Fei Kezhen , Benn Emma K.T. , Negron Rennie , Arniella Guedy , Tuhrim Stanley , Horowitz Carol R.
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Although poststroke depression is common, racial–ethnic disparities in depression among stroke survivors remain underexplored. Thus, we investigated the relationship between race/ethnicity and depression in a multiracial–ethnic stroke cohort.

Methods—

Baseline survey data of validated scales of depression and functional status, demographics, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status were used from a recurrent stroke prevention study among community-dwelling urban stroke/transient ischemic attack survivors.

Results—

The cohort included 556 participants with a mean age of 64 years. The majorities were black (44%) or latino (42%) and female (60%), had their last stroke/transient ischemic attack nearly 2 years before study enrollment, and lived below the poverty level (58%). Nearly 1 in 2 latinos, 1 in 4 blacks, and 1 in 8 whites were depressed. Multivariate logistic regression showed that survivors who were younger, were female, had ≥3 comorbid conditions, were functionally disabled from stroke, lacked emotional–social support, and who took antidepressants before study entry had higher risk of depression. Time since last stroke/transient ischemic attack did not affect the chance of depression. After adjusting for all above risk factors, latinos had 3× the odds of depression (95% confidence interval: 1.18–6.35) than whites; blacks and whites had similar odds of depression.

Conclusions—

This study reveals that latino stroke survivors have a significantly higher prevalence of depression compared with their non-latino counterparts.
A Legal Sunna in Dhikr Ḥaqqs from Sufyanid Egypt
Authors: Bruning J.
Published: December 2015

This article presents the edition of a legal document from c. 44/664–5, written in Arabic, that records a woman’s debt of a third of a dinar. It is the oldest preserved original of its kind. A study of the formulary of this document and contemporary copies of similar documents reveals a hitherto overlooked validity clause which states that the recorded financial transactions are in accordance with ‘the normative procedure of the believers’ (sunnat qaḍāʾ al-muʾminīn). This clause gives documentary evidence for the existence of ideas about legal identity among the Muslim community in Egypt as early as the beginning of Umayyad rule.
Vera Zasulich’s Critique of Neo-Populism
Authors: Gaido Daniel , Alessio Constanza Bosch
Published: December 2015

Vera Zasulich’s shooting of Trepov, a governor of St Petersburg who had ordered the flogging of a political prisoner, in January 1878, catapulted her to international fame as a revolutionary heroine, a reputation that she put to good use by becoming one of the five ‘founding parents’ of Russian Marxism that created the ‘Group for the Emancipation of Labour’ in 1883. But her act of self-sacrifice also triggered, to her dismay, the institutionalisation of individual-terrorist tactics in the Russian Populist movement with the creation of the ‘People’s Will’ (Narodnaya Volya) Party in 1879. The organisation went into decline after the killing of Tsar Alexanderiiin 1881, and Populism itself was increasingly superseded by Marxism as the hegemonic force on the left with the rise of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party (rsdlp). But individual-terrorist tactics reappeared with the creation of the Socialist Revolutionary Party in 1902, prompting Zasulich to write an article forDie neue Zeit, the theoretical organ of German Social Democracy, in which she both condemned the Neo-Populist tendency as deleterious to the rising labour movement and supported the organisational plans for thersdlpsponsored by theIskragroup, developed at length by Lenin in his bookWhat Is to Be Done?, published in March 1902. This article provides the background to Vera Zasulich’s article ‘The Terrorist Tendency in Russia’ (December 1902), setting it against the history of the Russian revolutionary movement from 1878 to 1902.
How Turks and Persians Drank Coffee: A Little-known Document of Social History by Father J. T. Krusiński
Authors: Malecka Anna
Published: December 2015

Polish orientalist, Jesuit Jan Tadeusz Krusiński is the author of some of the most important chronicles that were the source material for the study of the history of late Safavid Iran. In addition to these works, translated into several languages, Krusiński also wrote a less known text on methods of consuming coffee in the Ottoman empire and Persia. This article contains a presentation and translation of the text, as well as a draft of the author’s biography.
Cross-Modal Correspondences Enhance Performance on a Colour-to-Sound Sensory Substitution Device
Authors: Hamilton-Fletcher Giles , Wright Thomas D. , Ward Jamie
Published: December 2015

Visual sensory substitution devices (SSDs) can represent visual characteristics through distinct patterns of sound, allowing a visually impaired user access to visual information. Previous SSDs have avoided colour and when they do encode colour, have assigned sounds to colour in a largely unprincipled way. This study introduces a new tablet-based SSD termed the ‘Creole’ (so called because it combines tactile scanning with image sonification) and a new algorithm for converting colour to sound that is based on established cross-modal correspondences (intuitive mappings between different sensory dimensions). To test the utility of correspondences, we examined the colour–sound associative memory and object recognition abilities of sighted users who had their device either coded in line with or opposite to sound–colour correspondences. Improved colour memory and reduced colour-errors were made by users who had the correspondence-based mappings. Interestingly, the colour–sound mappings that provided the highest improvements during the associative memory task also saw the greatest gains for recognising realistic objects that also featured these colours, indicating a transfer of abilities from memory to recognition. These users were also marginally better at matching sounds to images varying in luminance, even though luminance was coded identically across the different versions of the device. These findings are discussed with relevance for both colour and correspondences for sensory substitution use.
Description of a new species of Hemigrammocapoeta (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from Lake Işıklı, Turkey
Authors: KÜÇÜK FAHRETTİN , BAYÇELEBİ ESRA , GÜÇLÜ SALİM SERKAN , GÜLLE İSKENDER
Published: December 2015

Hemigrammocapoeta menderesensis is distinguished from all other species of Hemigrammocapoeta in Anatolia by the following combination of characters (none unique to the species): lateral line incomplete; 6–17 perforated scales and 36–41 +1–2 scales in lateral series; 7½–8½ scale rows between lateral line and dorsal-fin origin, 3–4 scale rows between lateral series and anal-fin origin; dorsal fin commonly with 7½ branched rays; anal fin with 5½ branched rays; 15–17 gill rakers on the first brachial arch; pharyngeal teeth 2.4.5–5.3.3; mouth small, subterminal, horseshoe shaped and without barbel; lips developed and somewhat fleshy; upper lip not covering nostril gape; lower lip with two lateral lobes and median pad; lateral lobes smaller and shorter than half width of median pad; numerous papillae on lower and upper lips.
A new species of Sunipea Griffin & Tranter, 1986 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Inachidae) and a redescription of Sunipea indicus (Alcock, 1895)
Authors: SANTANA WILLIAM
Published: December 2015

A new species of spider crab, Sunipea callistus, n. sp., from Cape Guardafui, Somali Republic, is described and illustrated. Sunipea indicus (Alcock, 1895) is also redescribed and figured. Sunipea callistus n. sp. differs from S. indicus in the structures of the carapace, third maxillipeds, thoracic sternum, male abdomen, and chelipeds. Despite a number of characteristics that separate both species, these differences are more pronounced in males and are less evident in females. A diagnosis for the genus is provided.
Serum Potassium Levels and Short-Term Outcomes in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ma Wenfang , Liang Yan , Zhu Jun , Yang Yanmin , Tan Huiqiong , Yu Litian , Gao Xin , Feng Guangxun , Li Jiandong
Published: December 2015

Current guidelines recommend maintaining serum potassium levels between 4.0 and 5.0 mEq/L (1 mEq/L = mmol/L) in patients with acute myocardial infarction. However, these guidelines are based on studies conducted before the β blocker and reperfusion era. We retrospectively analyzed 6613 patients diagnosed with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who presented without renal insufficiency. Patients were categorized into 5 groups according to mean serum potassium levels: <3.5, 3.5 to <4.0, 4.0 to <4.5, 4.5 to <5.0, and ≥5.0 mEq/L. Patients with potassium levels of 4.0 to <4.5 mEq/L had the lowest predefined event rates, which were 6.4% for 7-day malignant arrhythmia, 3.7% for 7-day mortality, and 5.3% for 30-day mortality. Compared with the reference group (4.0 to <4.5 mEq/L), multivariate regression analysis revealed significantly higher 30-day mortality risk in patients with potassium level of 4.5 to <5.0 (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.52, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17-1.98; P = .002) and even higher risk in patients with potassium level of ≥5.0 mEq/L (HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.22-2.66; P = .002). The lowest 30-day mortality was observed in patients with STEMI having potassium levels between 4.0 and 4.5 mEq/L, and a level >4.5 mEq/L significantly increased mortality risk.
Peer Interactions of Parentally Bereaved Children and Adolescents
Authors: LaFreniere Lucas , Cain Albert
Published: December 2015

This study investigates peer interaction and peer support for parentally bereaved children and adolescents. Using data from an extensive study of bereaved families in southeastern Michigan, previously transcribed semistructured interviews on peer relationships from a sample of 35 parentally bereaved children aged 6 to 15 were qualitatively analyzed using the constant comparative method. This analysis explores peer interaction in the context of parental loss, revealing the nearly ubiquitous desire of bereaved children to be perceived as “normal” and maintain their social life as it was before the death, the avoidance of bereavement-related peer interaction, the nature of and possible reasons for the relative lack of peer support, deliberately hurtful peer behavior, the multiple functions of peer support, and the value of close friends in bereavement.
Mourning 2.0—Continuing Bonds Between the Living and the Dead on Facebook
Authors: Irwin Melissa D.
Published: December 2015

This study examines the burgeoning phenomenon of Facebook memorial pages and how this research about online social networking environments can contribute to the existing literature related to Klass, Silverman, and Nickman (1996) continuing bonds thesis. I argue that memorial pages constitute a new ritualized and public space for maintaining these continued bonds and that individuals exhibit several types of bonding interactions with the deceased. I conducted a content analysis on a purposively selected sample of 12 public Facebook “pages” where I coded 1,270 individual Wall postings. Analyses demonstrated that many individuals routinely used these Walls to continue their relationships with the deceased. Findings revealed several Wall posting categories, “guidance from beyond and reunion with the deceased,” “messages and visitations from the deceased,” and “conversations with the deceased,” which I then combined under a central thematic heading of “paranormal copresence.” There were 267 Wall postings coded under “guidance and reunion,” 26 for “messages and visitations,” and 340 for “conversations,” with the total of 633 Wall postings under the central thematic heading of paranormal copresence. This research highlights how individuals have transcended the limitations of time and physical space in relation to traditional bereavement behavior and rituals and how data found on public websites, such as Facebook, can be used to further theorize bereavement and to demonstrate continue bonds between the living and the dead.
Prolonged Grief in Palliative Family Caregivers
Authors: Coelho Alexandra , Delalibera Mayra , Barbosa António , Lawlor Peter
Published: December 2015

Caregivers are particularly vulnerable to experience intense levels of distress following the loss. The aim of this prospective pilot study is to determine the incidence of prolonged grief disorder symptoms among caregivers. A total of 73 bereaved families responded to the Prolonged Grief Disorder Evaluation Instrument (PG-13) at 6 and 12 months following their loss. The incidence of prolonged grief disorder at the first assessment was 28.8%, and it decreased to 15.1% at the second assessment. The prevalence of prolonged grief disorder declined significantly over time ( p = .041). In the second evaluation, six bereaved individuals continued to meet criteria for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder, 15 remitted, and 4 new (incident) cases emerged. The important differences in values that occur after 12 months suggest time is important in distinguishing between those at risk for persistent distress and those whose grief symptomatology will decrease with time.
Grief Experiences Among Female American and Arab Undergraduate College Students
Authors: Varga Mary Alice , McClam Tricia M. , Hassane Sofoh
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of grief among American and Arab female undergraduate students, the effects of their grief, and risk of prolonged grief disorder. A total of 471 female undergraduate students, 308 (65.4%) from the United Arab Emirates and 163 (34.6%) from the United States, completed a survey about their grief experiences. Students experiencing a significant loss also completed the Prolonged Grief Disorder Questionnaire. Findings revealed that overall approximately 38.4% ( n = 181) of all 471 students experienced the loss of a significant person in their lives within the past 24 months; a similar percentage was found in each sub group. Students reported various grief effects with American students experiencing more effects related to sleep, relationships, academics, physical well-being, religion/spirituality, and outlook on life than Arab students. Only a small number (10, 5.52%) of students met the criteria for prolonged grief disorder; however, most students were female Arab students. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are provided.
Simulation of the competition among traditional and on-demand software vendors
Authors: Cocco Luisanna , Concas Giulio , Marchesi Michele
Published: December 2015

In this work, we propose a simulation model to study the software market, and in particular the competition among on-premise and on-demand vendors of customer relationship management software. In this market two kinds of vendors, on-premise and on-demand vendors, and corporate customers interact. Vendors have an initial capital and a specific number of developers. They invest a fraction of their capital in their product quality and try to sell their products making a profit. Corporate customers buy software products for their employees, trying to minimize their cost and maximize their utility. The proposed model is able to reproduce the real trends of the market as regards both the price of software and the market shares of the vendors, despite there is relatively little empirical evidence available about the various mechanisms at play, and few experimental data. Our model could be used as a tool to forecast future market trends, or to plan business policies of investment and pricing. Any firm could calibrate this model depending on its past business trends in order to obtain simple guidelines to follow in the planning of business winning strategies.