bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
White and clear wings in bats (Chiroptera)
Authors: Rydell J. , Fenton M.B. , Seamark E. , Webala P.W. , Michaelsen T.C.
Published: December 2019

White or clear (“whitish”) wings are a distinct feature in about 30 species of tropical insectivorous bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) belonging to three families (Emballonuridae, Molossidae, and Vespertilionidae). Such wings may provide camouflage against the sky at dusk and dawn, when bats commute to and from the roost and are vulnerable to aerial predation from birds. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the contrast of black, white, and transparent plastic models against the evening sky. Compared with normally dark wings, white and particularly transparent wings indeed reduce the contrast against the sky and may also prevent overheating in bats flying in daylight. Whitish wings could facilitate earlier evening emergence and later morning return, increasing access to crepuscular or diurnal insects as food. But whitish wings become maladaptive near artificial lights, where they are highly visible when illuminated against the dark sky. Pale but colored (not whitish) wings and reticulated patterns on translucent wings in some African and south Asian bats may be variations on the same theme, functional as camouflage against a lit background of vegetation and shades.
Complexity factor for self-gravitating system in modified Gauss–Bonnet gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Majid Amal , Nasir M. M. M.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we develop a complexity factor for static sphere in modified Gauss–Bonnet gravity with anisotropic and nonhomogeneous configuration. We use the field equations as well as equation of continuity to derive expressions for mass function in [Formula: see text] gravity. The Riemann tensor is split using Bel’s approach to formulate structure scalars that exhibit fundamental properties of the system. A complexity factor is developed on the basis of these scalars and the condition of vanishing complexity is used to obtain solutions of two different models. It is observed that modified terms increase complexity of the matter distribution.
Gravitational waves induced from string axion model of inflation
Authors: Gao Tie-Jun , Yang Xiu-Yi
Published: December 2019

We study the production of gravitational waves from primordial scalar perturbations in a string axion inflationary model with subleading nonperturbative corrections. In such a model, the subleading nonperturbative effects can superimpose steep cliffs and gentle plateaus onto the leading axion potential. Such an inflationary potential both matches the Planck observations at CMB scales and gives rise to an enhancement in the scalar power spectrum at small scales. We calculate the second-order gravitational wave signatures induced by the scalar density perturbations, and find that the signal can be detected by the space-based laser interferometers in the future.
Measuring the Business Value of Recommender Systems
Authors: Jannach Dietmar , Jugovac Michael
Published: December 2019

Recommender Systems are nowadays successfully used by all major web sites—from e-commerce to social media—to filter content and make suggestions in a personalized way. Academic research largely focuses on the value of recommenders for consumers, e.g., in terms of reduced information overload. To what extent and in which ways recommender systems create
business value
is, however, much less clear, and the literature on the topic is scattered. In this research commentary, we review existing publications on field tests of recommender systems and report which business-related performance measures were used in such real-world deployments. We summarize common challenges of measuring the business value in practice and critically discuss the value of algorithmic improvements and offline experiments as commonly done in academic environments. Overall, our review indicates that various open questions remain both regarding the realistic quantification of the business effects of recommenders and the performance assessment of recommendation algorithms in academia.
Management of Multiple Arteriovenous Malformations of the Small Bowel
Authors: Hirakawa Masahiro , Ishizuka Rie , Sato Masanori , Hayasaka Naotaka , Ohnuma Hiroyuki , Murase Kazuyuki , Takada Kohichi , Ito Tatsuya , Nobuoka Takayuki , Miyanishi Koji , Kobune Masayoshi , Takemasa Ichiro , Kato Junji
Published: December 2019

A 62-year-old Japanese female was referred to our hospital with gastrointestinal bleeding. Although small-bowel bleeding was suspected, no bleeding source was identified by enhanced computed tomography (CT), video capsule endoscopy (VCE), and double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE). Five years later, the patient had recurrent intermittent bloody stools with a significant decrease in hemoglobin levels. Although no active bleeding was observed on antegrade DBE, we detected a pulsatile submucosal uplift accompanied by a small red patch on the top of the uplift in the jejunum. Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) was suspected as the cause of small-bowel bleeding. Multiple-phase CT showed a number of small vascular ectasias during the arterial phase in the jejunum, and we confirmed the presence of multiple AVMs in the jejunum by selective angiography. To identify the location of the lesions and determine the minimal surgical margins, we performed intraoperative selective angiography with indocyanine green (ICG) injection. This technique allowed us to clearly observe the region and perform segmental small-bowel resection with minimal surgical margin. The patient reported that she has had no gastrointestinal bleeding at the two years follow-up visit.
Seismic Analysis of Low‐Rise Self‐Centering Prestressed Concrete Frames considering Soil‐Structure Interaction
Authors: Song Liang-Long , Guo Tong , Shi Xin
Published: December 2019

In this study, the seismic behavior of low‐rise self‐centering (SC) prestressed concrete frames considering soil‐structure interaction (SSI) is presented. For this purpose, a typical 4‐story SC concrete frame, with and without flexible foundations, is analyzed through nonlinear dynamic analysis. Ground motion sets with two hazard levels are selected for analysis. A conventional reinforced concrete (RC) frame is also studied, and the structural demands of the RC and SC frames are compared in terms of peak and residual drifts, base shear, residual settlement, and rotation of foundation. The analysis results show that considering soil‐structure interaction generally increases the peak and residual drift demands and reduces the base shear and connection rotation demands when compared to fixed base conditions. For the cases with and without flexible foundations, the SC frame is found to have comparable peak story drifts with the RC frame and have the inherent potential of significantly reducing the residual drifts. The seismic analysis results of the frames with flexible bases show that the RC and SC frames can experience foundation damage due to excessive residual foundation rotations after the maximum considered earthquake (MCE).
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole-Induced Aseptic Meningitis: A Rare Presentation of Commonly Used Antibiotic
Authors: Agabawi Salem
Published: December 2019

Drug-induced aseptic meningitis is a rare medical condition with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole being one of the most common antimicrobial agents associated with it. Here, I report a case of a 56-year-old male who presented to a health care facility with shock and meningitis-like syndrome in two occasions, one year apart following an exposure to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for treatment of skin/soft tissue infection. Investigations did not reveal an infectious etiology in the two presentations. The patient improved with supportive care and withdrawal of the offending agent. In the two admissions, the patient improved following stopping the offending drug in addition to supportive care. The diagnosis of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-induced aseptic meningitis was the most likely explanation for this case. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-induced aseptic meningitis is rare although it is a life-threatening side effect of TMP/SMX; therefore, the clinicians should keep the diagnosis of drug-induced aseptic meningitis in the differential diagnosis of aseptic meningitis in the appropriate clinical setting as early withdrawal of the culprit drug and supportive measurements will lead to early recovery.
System Delay in Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Gaza Strip, Palestine
Authors: Abo Al-Shiekh Samira S. , Alajerami Yasser S. , Etewa Bothyna B. , Elsous Aymen M.
Published: December 2019

Background. Breast cancer is a major public health problem and the first leading cause of cancer deaths among females in Palestine. Early diagnosis of breast cancer contributes to reduction of morbidity and mortality rates. This study aimed to explore system-related factors affecting the timely diagnosis of breast cancer in the Gaza Strip. Method and Materials. A mixed method, sequential explanatory design was employed. A quantitative study was conducted first, and it was cross-sectional in nature, followed by a qualitative study. An interviewed questionnaire and an abstraction sheet were used to collect necessary quantitative data among 122 females diagnosed with breast cancer. A purposive sample of five medical specialists were selected for in-depth interview. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used to find differences between variables. Odds ratio and confidence interval at 95% were presented, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Around 12.3% of women experienced diagnostic delay for 3 months and more, and 6.6% reported a delay in referral for more than 2 weeks. Regarding imaging delay, around 8.2% and 2.7% of women had reported a delay in performing mammography and ultrasound, respectively. Moreover, one-fourth reported delay in performing biopsy for more than 14 days, and 46.3% reported delay more than 14 days in getting histopathology report. In addition, 9% missed the follow-up after benign findings of the previous breast imaging and no national protocols are available for the diagnosis of breast cancer in the Gaza strip. Conclusion. There is a long appointment time for diagnostic tools especially in biopsy. The nonmalignant findings from mammography or ultrasound could affect diagnosis time. It is an urgent need to have a national protocol for diagnosis and management of breast cancer and to adopt screening, diagnostic, and follow-up programs under the supervision of the Ministry of Health.
Ureterocolic Fistula Secondary to Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid Colon after Laparoscopic Salpingo-Oophorectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yamanaka Hirohumi , Takeuchi Satoko , Kirigaya Nao , Kato Akihito , Kaseki Satoshi , Sugita Chika , Saito Shigeko , Okamoto Tomomitsu
Published: December 2019

Ureterocolic fistula is a rare phenomenon and cases secondary to diverticulitis are even rarer. We present a case of ureterocolic fistula secondary to diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon following laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy due to endometriomas. To our knowledge, this is the first case that occurred in a patient with gynecologic surgery.
Coexistence of β-Lactamases in Community-Acquired Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital in India
Authors: Mirza Shahzad , Jadhav Savita , Misra R. N. , Das Nikunja Kumar
Published: December 2019

Introduction. The trends of β-lactamases producing Enterobacteriaceae is ever increasing, and limited studies have reported investigating coexistence of β lactamases in Enterobacteriaceae. A cross-sectional study after approval from the Institutional Ethical committee was conducted between June 2014 and May 2016 in community-acquired infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms in our tertiary care. Nonrepetitive clinical samples from the out-patient department (OPD) were processed for bacteriological culture and identification of Enterobacteriaceae. An antibiotic susceptibility test, screening, and phenotypic confirmation for ESBLs and carbapenemases and AmpC producers were performed to check for coexistence of these enzymes. Results. Nonrepetitive clinical specimens processed for culture and identification in our hospital revealed 417 positive isolates in community acquired infections which were multidrug-resistant organisms, and on screening for β-lactamases, 293 isolates were positive for one of the three beta lactamases, ESBL, AmpC, or carbapnemases. Coproduction of ESBL and MBL was seen in 5 isolates, 35 isolates showed coproduction of ESBL and AmpC enzymes, and AmpC and MBL coproduction was exhibited in only in 5 isolates. Conclusions. Coexistence of ESBLs, AmpC producers, and carbapenemases has been described. Continuous monitoring and surveillance and proper infection control and prevention practices will limit the further spread of these superbugs within the hospital and beyond.
Different Deformation Patterns in High Core Wall Rockfill Dams: A Case Study of the Maoergai and Qiaoqi Dams
Authors: Feng Rui , He Yun-Long , Cao Xue-Xing
Published: December 2019

The time‐dependent behaviour of high rockfill dams is complex and not easy to accurately predict. Many discrepancies were revealed by the comparison of the observed deformation histories of different dams, and the deformation of some high rockfill dams did not correspond to the general deformation law. Field monitoring is therefore an effective method for understanding complex dam deformation behaviour. In this paper, actual measured deformation data resulting from continuous monitoring of the Maoergai and Qiaoqi dams are analysed. These two dams have similar heights, crest lengths, and alluvium overburden thicknesses. Our aim is to explain the actual deformation histories on the basis of the mechanical behaviours of these dams in order to warn engineers about potential problems that cannot be predicted. The results indicate that the deformation patterns of the two dams are completely different. The dam construction and water impoundment schedule is the major reason for the different horizontal displacement patterns. The reservoir filling rates and rainfall are the main reasons for the different settlement patterns. The case histories are useful for understanding the wide range of possible postconstruction deformation in a dam.
Beta-Blocker Therapy Preserves Normal Splenic T-Lymphocyte Numbers Reduced in Proportion to Sepsis Severity in a Sepsis Model
Authors: Suzuki Takeshi , Inoue Kei , Igarashi Toru , Kato Jungo , Nagata Hiromasa , Yamada Takashige , Minamishima Shizuka , Morisaki Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Lymphocyte cell death contributes to sepsis-induced immunosuppression, leading to poor prognosis. This study examined whether sepsis severity and beta-blocker therapy could affect the degree of T-lymphocyte cell death in a mouse model of sepsis. In the first control study, 20 animals were allocated to 4 groups: control group with sham operation (group C, n = 5) and 3 groups with cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) performed at 3 different sites: proximal, middle, and distal cecum (groups CLP-P, CLP-M, and CLP-D, respectively; n = 5 in each group). Their spleens were resected under general anesthesia 24 hours after CLP, and the total number of normal splenic T lymphocytes per mouse and the percentage of apoptotic T lymphocytes were evaluated using flow cytometry. In the second experimental study, the effect of the beta-blocker esmolol was examined in CLP-P (group CLP-PE vs. CLP-P; n = 5 in each group). The total normal splenic T-lymphocyte numbers per mouse significantly decreased in proportion to CLP severity (group C, 18.6 × 106 (15 × 106–23.6 × 106); CLP-D, 9.2 × 106 (8.8 × 106–9.8 × 106); CLP-M, 6.7 × 106 (6.3 × 106–7.0 × 106); and CLP-P, 5.3 × 106 (5.1 × 106–6.8 × 106)). Beta-blocker therapy restored T-lymphocyte numbers (group CLP-PE vs. CLP-P; 6.94 ± 1.52 × 106 vs. 4.18 ± 1.71 × 106; p=0.027) without affecting apoptosis percentage. Beta-blocker therapy might improve sepsis-induced immunosuppression via normal splenic T-lymphocyte preservation.
Development of Embedded Boot Software for a Satellite Instrument Control Unit: Lessons Learned
Authors: Fernández-Conde Jesús , Gómez-Saez-de-Tejada Jaime , Pérez-Lizán David , Toledo-Moreo Rafael
Published: December 2019

A satellite spacecraft is generally composed of a central Control and Data Management Unit (CDMU) and several instruments, each one locally controlled by its Instrument Control Unit (ICU). Inside each ICU, the embedded boot software (BSW) is the very first piece of software executed after power-up or reset. The ICU BSW is a nonpatchable, stand-alone, real-time software package that initializes the ICU HW, performs self-tests, and waits for CDMU commands to maintain on-board memory and ultimately start a patchable application software (ASW), which is responsible for execution of the nominal tasks assigned to the ICU (control of the satellite instrument being the most important one). The BSW is a relatively small but critical software item, since an unexpected behaviour can cause or contribute to a system failure resulting in fatal consequences such as the satellite mission loss. The development of this kind of embedded software is special in many senses, primarily due to its criticality, real-time expected performance, and the constrained size of program and data memories. This paper presents the lessons learned in the development and HW/SW integration phases of a satellite ICU BSW designed for a European Space Agency mission.
The Human Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hAMSCs) Improve the Implant Osseointegration and Bone Regeneration in Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation in Rabbits
Authors: Yin Lu , Zhou Zhi-xuan , Shen Ming , Chen Ning , Jiang Fei , Wang Shou-Lin
Published: December 2019

Insufficient bone height in the posterior maxilla is a challenging problem in dental implantation. Bio-Oss, though routinely used in maxillary sinus floor elevation (MSFE), is not osteoinductive. Human amniotic mesenchymal cells (hAMSCs) isolated from placental tissues have potential for multidifferentiation and immunomodulatory properties and can be easily obtained without the need for invasive procedures and without ethical concerns. This is the first study to use hAMSCs to improve implant osseointegration and bone regeneration after MSFE. Human AMSCs were loaded into a fibrin gel and injected into rabbit MSFE models. The rabbits were assigned to four groups (n=3 per group), i.e., the control group, the hAMSC group, the Bio-Oss group, and the hAMSC/Bio-Oss group. The animals were sacrificed at postsurgery for four and twelve weeks and evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry. Bone volume, bone volume/tissue volume, bone-to-implant contact ratio, and vessel-like structures in the hAMSC/Bio-Oss group were significantly better than those in other groups in the peri-implant and augmented areas. Immunofluorescence staining showed that alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities of two hAMSC groups were higher than those of the other two groups. Sequential fluorescent labeling was performed in all of the 12-week groups. Observations showed that hAMSCs accelerated mineralized deposition rates on implant surfaces and in bone-augmented areas. These data demonstrated that hAMSCs could enhance implant osseointegration and bone regeneration after MSFE and might be used to optimize dental implantation in the future.
Early-Life and Adult Anthropometrics in Relation to Mammographic Image Intensity Variation in the Nurses' Health Studies
Authors: Oh Hannah , Rice Megan S. , Warner Erica T. , Bertrand Kimberly A. , Fowler Erin E. , Eliassen A. Heather , Rosner Bernard A. , Heine John J. , Tamimi Rulla M.
Published: December 2019

Background:

The V measure captures grayscale intensity variation on a mammogram and is positively associated with breast cancer risk, independent of percent mammographic density (PMD), an established marker of breast cancer risk. We examined whether anthropometrics are associated with V, independent of PMD.

Methods:

The analysis included 1,700 premenopausal and 1,947 postmenopausal women without breast cancer within the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and NHSII. Participants recalled their body fatness at ages 5, 10, and 20 years using a 9-level pictogram (level 1: most lean) and reported weight at age 18 years, current adult weight, and adult height. V was estimated by calculating standard deviation of pixels on screening mammograms. Linear mixed models were used to estimate beta coefficients (ß) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the relationships between anthropometric measures and V, adjusting for confounders and PMD.

Results:

V and PMD were positively correlated (Spearman r = 0.60). Higher average body fatness at ages 5 to 10 years (level ≥ 4.5 vs. 1) was significantly associated with lower V in premenopausal (ß = −0.32; 95% CI, −0.48 to −0.16) and postmenopausal (ß = −0.24; 95% CI, −0.37 to −0.10) women, independent of current body mass index (BMI) and PMD. Similar inverse associations were observed with average body fatness at ages 10 to 20 years and BMI at age 18 years. Current BMI was inversely associated with V, but the associations were largely attenuated after adjustment for PMD. Height was not associated with V.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that early-life body fatness may reflect lifelong impact on breast tissue architecture beyond breast density. However, further studies are needed to confirm the results.

Impact:

This study highlights strong inverse associations of early-life adiposity with mammographic image intensity variation.
Astragaloside IV Alleviates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Activating the Janus Kinase 2 and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu ZhengHu , Liu Wei , Huang Huai
Published: December 2019

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an active component extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine. AS-IV is a neuroprotective component in cerebral ischemic models. However, roles of AS-IV in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury and the underlying mechanisms are rarely investigated. The role of AS-IV in oxygen – glucose deprivation reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced cell proliferation and apoptosis assays were analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 and Flow cytometric. Western Blot assays were performed to measure the related expression levels in SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, activities of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in OGD/R-induced cells were determined by relative commercial kits. AS-IV was also used in cerebral I/R rat model, aimed to investigate the effects on cerebral infarct. The results indicated that OGD/R suppressed viability, enhanced apoptosis, which could be reversed by AS-IV treatment. Compared with the control group, the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 was significantly increased by AS-IV (60 μg/mL) under the OGD/R condition. Furthermore, AS-IV (60 μg/mL) treatment markedly increased SOD activity, whereas significantly decreased MDA activity and production of ROS in OGD/R-induced cells. The protective effects of AS-IV mentioned above were weaken or abolished while adding JAK2 inhibitor AG490. In addition, the effects of AS-IV on Janus kinase 2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling in cerebral I/R injury were also verified in vivo. AS-IV protected against cerebral I/R injury and reversed by AG490. Therefore, in vitro and in vivo analyses suggested that AS-IV may protect against cerebral I/R injury partly mediated by JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and antioxidative effects. AS-IV may serve as a novel therapeutic regimen for cerebral I/R injury.
Hypertension with Hyperhomocysteinemia Increases the Risk of Early Cognitive Impairment after First-Ever Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lu Zhen-Hui , Li Jia , Li Xin-Ling , Ding Mei , Mao Cheng-Jie , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Liu Chun-Feng
Published: December 2019

Background: Hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) are independent risk factors of stroke and are associated with each other. Although evidence suggests that they are related to cognitive impairment, the relationship between hypertension accompanied with HHcy and poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is unclear. Objective: To define the relationship between hypertension with HHcy and early cognitive impairment after acute cerebral infarction. Materials and Methods: Our study enrolled 232 patients with acute first-ever ischemic stroke. Patients were assigned to 3 groups by blood pressure and homocysteine (Hcy) levels: hypertension with HHcy, simple hypertension, or control. Cognition was assessed by the Montreal cognitive assessment at admission and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Results: The hypertension with HHcy group exhibited the highest incidence of early cognitive impairment (simple hypertension: p = 0.000; control: p = 0.000). This group also had lower visual space/executive scores than the simple hypertension group (p = 0.000) and lower delayed recall scores than the control group (p = 0.011). Multivariate analysis showed that hypertension with HHcy (OR 7.797; 95% CI 2.917–20.843; p = 0.000), the level of serum Hcy (OR 1.063; 95% CI 1.109–1.109; p = 0.005), education years (OR 0.797; 95% CI 0.722–0.880; p = 0.000), and Fazekas scale of leukoaraiosis (OR 1.648; 95% CI 1.239–2.191; p = 0.001) were independent influencing factors of early PSCI; however, simple hypertension (OR 1.183, 95% CI 0.208–6.737; p = 0.850) and simple HHcy (OR 1.112, 95% CI 0.181–6.810; p = 0.909) were not. Conclusion: Patients with both hypertension and HHcy are at an increased risk of early cognitive impairment after acute first-ever ischemic stroke.
Transverse Lumbotomy for Open Partial/Radical Nephrectomy: How I Do It
Authors: Ismail Asmaa , Oquendo Fabiola , Allard-Ihala Erika , Elmansy Hazem , Shahrour Walid , Prowse Owen , Kotb Ahmed
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Conventional open surgical techniques allow proper surgical management for renal malignancies but have their intrinsic drawbacks. The aim of this paper is to present our technique in minimal renal exposure while avoiding the intrinsic complications of conventional techniques. Methods: We described our technique, which can be easily understood and replicated by urologists performing open kidney surgery. Results: Ninety-five patients had this technique done safely over the last 4 years, and 3 patients had this exposure changed into intraperitoneal extended wound for very large upper pole tumours. The median operating time was 70 min. No single patient required intraoperative blood transfusion. Median warm ischemic time was 9 min. Conclusion: Transverse lumbotomy is a safe reproducible technique that allows proper kidney exposure through a relatively smaller wound and avoiding unnecessary auxiliary techniques as rib resection, pleural tear management, and intraperitoneal exposure.
Predictors of Significant Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Cerebral Artery Atherosclerosis
Authors: Roh Ji Woong , Kwon Beom-Jun , Ihm Sang-Hyun , Lim Sungmin , Park Chan-Seok , Chang Kiyuk , Chung Wook Sung , Kim Dong-Bin , Kim Seong-Rim  , Kim Hee-Yeol
Published: December 2019

Objective: There are few existing data on the status of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with atherosclerosis of the cerebral artery detected by brain imaging studies. We aimed to analyze the predictors of asymptomatic angiographically significant CAD detected by simultaneous cerebral and coronary angiography. Methods: This retrospective cohort study screened data obtained between August 2009 and April 2019; 11,047 patients underwent cerebral angiography for atherosclerotic change (>50% stenosis or aneurysm) seen in brain magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or computed tomography angiography (CTA) at a single center by endovascular neurosurgeon’s decision. Of these, 700 patients including 622 patients who underwent simultaneous coronary and cerebral angiography and 78 patients who underwent coronary angiography within a month were enrolled. We investigated the characteristics and predictors of angiographically significant CAD (>50% stenosis). Furthermore, we also analyzed the major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), including all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and stroke for 5 years. Results: The frequency of significant CAD was 59% (413/700), the mean age was 68.9 ± 10.3 years, and 60.6% were male. During mean follow-up of 50 months, the MACCE rate of our whole cohort was significantly higher in the CAD group (21.5%) than in the non-CAD group (14.6%; hazard ratio 1.65, 95% CI 1.17–2.33, p value = 0.005). Considering that the embolic stroke is less associated with atherosclerotic change, our predictive model of significant CAD was made without embolic stroke (n = 599). In our multivariate model 2 including univariate <0.1, the independent predictors of significant CAD were male (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.11–2.35, p = 0.012), diabetes mellitus (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.22–2.68, p = 0.003), previous stroke (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.02–2.60, p = 0.039), low ankle-brachial index (ABI; <0.9; OR 3.25, 95% CI 1.21–8.73, p = 0.019), left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) <50% on echocardiography (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.25–6.35, p = 0.012), troponin I or T positive (OR 2.76, 95% CI 1.69–4.53, p < 0.001), and complex features on cerebral angiography (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.78–4.19, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Accurate coronary evaluation by coronary angiography might be considered when patients with atherosclerotic cerebral artery detected on brain MRA or CTA planned cerebral angiography were male or have diabetes mellitus, previous stroke, low ABI (<0.9), left ventricular EF <50% on echocardiography, troponin I or T positivity, and complex features on cerebral angiography.
Cardápios e banquetes na Primeira República
Authors: Borrego Maria Aparecida De Menezes , Abrahão Eliane Morelli
Published: December 2019

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir o processo de curadoria da exposição “Cardápios e banquetes na Primeira República” (1889-1930), inaugurada em 10 de novembro de 2015, no Museu Republicano “Convenção de Itu” - USP. Partindo das fotografias e cardápios da coleção Washington Luís, as atenções recaíram sobre as dinâmicas de construção de problemáticas e seleção das peças do acervo, o desenvolvimento do projeto expográfico, a realização de atividades correlatas em torno do tema das práticas alimentares entre finais do oitocentos e primeira metade século XX e os desdobramentos da curadoria museológica até os dias de hoje.
Comida e diversão
Authors: Bacelar Jeferson Afonso
Published: December 2019

Uma característica marca o trabalho que venho realizando sobre os viajantes estrangeiros na Bahia no século XIX: a abordagem deles sobre o que comiam. O jovem holandês Ver Huell foi um viajante singular, começando pela permanência involuntária por quase três anos na Bahia. Convivendo em diferentes espaços sociais, conheceu os variados planos da culinária baiana, sobretudo o das camadas populares de Salvador. Com pequenas adversidades, passou a maior parte do tempo no lazer e na diversão, aproveitando também para saborear as “carnes tropicais”. Pouco se conhece de viajante estrangeiro que, como Ver Huell, tenha se adaptado tão bem à realidade social e ao regime alimentar dos baianos, aos prazeres da mesa e da cama.
Cura espiritual, biomedicina e intermedicalidade no Santo Daime
Authors: Rose Isabel Santana de
Published: December 2019

Este trabalho toma como ponto de partida a descrição do sistema de cuidados da saúde da comunidade do Santo Daime Céu da Mantiqueira, localizada no sul do estado de Minas Gerais. Este sistema de cuidados da saúde é caracterizado por uma pluralidade de práticas terapêuticas provenientes de diferentes campos; pela presença de um numero expressivo de profissionais da área da saúde; e pela incorporação de recursos biomédicos. Procuro aqui compreender a estreita imbricação entre essas diferentes práticas e paradigmas terapêuticos a partir do conceito de intermedicalidade, desenvolvido no âmbito dos estudos sobre saúde indígena, visando dar conta de contextos caracterizados pela convivência de sistemas médicos distintos. Com base no estudo de caso sobre o Céu da Mantiqueira, argumento que as fronteiras entre espiritualidade e terapia, entre os usos rituais/religiosos e os usos terapêuticos da ayahuasca, entre ciência e religião são porosas e difusas, se interpenetram e se misturam.
Compaixão canábica
Authors: Policarpo Frederico
Published: December 2019

Neste artigo, pretendo discutir um aspecto do controle das drogas que é secundário nos debates públicos que giram em torno da proibição. Da mesma forma que as convenções da ONU destacam que as drogas provocam dor e sofrimento por conta “toxicomania”, da “dependência química”, gerando o comércio ilícito e a violência do “tráfico”, as mesmas convenções admitem que as drogas também continuam “indispensáveis para o alívio da dor e do sofrimento”. Vou utilizar dados etnográficos que produzi nos Estados Unidos e no Brasil para discutir o uso terapêutico da maconha para o manejo do “alívio da dor e sofrimento”. Tendo em vista que os conceitos médicos e legais são construções políticas, utilizo os regulamentos normativos sobre o uso terapêutico da maconha – o brasileiro e o estadunidense – com o objetivo de vislumbrar o clima político e moral do momento histórico em que são atualizadas. Espero, assim, contribuir para a elaboração de uma “farmacopeia política”, em torno da maconha, considerando os textos normativos como uma maneira de observar como são instaurados os vínculos morais, biológicos, comerciais, etc, entre os seres humanos e a planta.
Lobbies alimentares
Authors: Azevedo Elaine
Published: December 2019

Este estudo conceitual se debruça sobre lobbies alimentares – atividades políticas legais designadas para influenciar o congresso, as agências federais e o governo, propondo leis que beneficiem as companhias alimentares e os grupos de commodities agrícolas em detrimento dos interesses e das preocupações da saúde coletiva. O tema, central na pesquisa de Marion Nestle desde a década de 1990, é essencial para discutir a construção social do conceito de alimento saudável sob a ótica do neoliberalismo. No entanto, nenhuma de suas publicações foi ainda traduzida para a língua portuguesa. O artigo mobiliza jornalistas e autores das áreas de Ciências Social e Política e oferece um estímulo para futuras pesquisas nessa área de conhecimento, sem a pretensão de abarcar o amplo alcance das publicações de Marion Nestle.
Carta dos Editores
Authors: Bianchini Nicole Leite , Aguiar Viviane Soares , Tanan Cauê
Published: December 2019

Desde meados de 2017, vimos trabalhando na produção desta publicação que, enfim, nos orgulhamos de lançar agora, em março de 2019. A Ingesta chega ao cenário acadêmico com o objetivo de catalisar pesquisas relacionadas à história da alimentação e das drogas e de contribuir para expandir e consolidar esse ramo de estudos interdisciplinar no campo das humanidades. Este exemplar de estreia, no entanto, foge do que será a rotina da publicação. Sob a coordenação do historiador Henrique Soares Carneiro e de um editor convidado, o sociólogo Carlos Alberto Dória, planejamos o primeiro volume no formato de um compêndio de artigos e ensaios assinados por pesquisadores e professores com vasta produção acadêmica no tema das drogas e da alimentação – alguns deles compõem, inclusive, a Comissão Científica da revista. Ligados a instituições de diversas regiões, os autores foram convidados a escrever seus textos especialmente para esta primeira edição. Excepcionalmente, portanto, apenas desta vez os trabalhos aqui publicados não passaram pela avaliação de pareceristas, como deve ocorrer nos seguintes números. Para nós, foi uma grande satisfação receber cada um dos artigos e poder compilá-los neste volume de apresentação, que representa, em si mesmo, uma das propostas primordiais da publicação: unificar as áreas de estudos da alimentação e das drogas, usualmente tratadas à parte.
A Balance Between Intermediate Filaments and Microtubules Maintains Nuclear Architecture in the Cardiomyocyte
Authors: Heffler Julie , Shah Parisha P. , Robison Patrick , Phyo Sai , Veliz Kimberly , Uchida Keita , Bogush Alexey , Rhoades Joshua , Jain Rajan , Prosser Benjamin L.
Published: December 2019

Rationale:

Mechanical forces are transduced to nuclear responses via the linkers of the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, which couples the cytoskeleton to the nuclear lamina and associated chromatin. While disruption of the LINC complex can cause cardiomyopathy, the relevant interactions that bridge the nucleoskeleton to cytoskeleton are poorly understood in the cardiomyocyte, where cytoskeletal organization is unique. Furthermore, while microtubules and desmin intermediate filaments associate closely with cardiomyocyte nuclei, the importance of these interactions is unknown.

Objective:

Here, we sought to determine how cytoskeletal interactions with the LINC complex regulate nuclear homeostasis in the cardiomyocyte.

Methods and Results:

To this end, we acutely disrupted the LINC complex, microtubules, actin, and intermediate filaments and assessed the consequences on nuclear morphology and genome organization in rat ventricular cardiomyocytes via a combination of super-resolution imaging, biophysical, and genomic approaches. We find that a balance of dynamic microtubules and desmin intermediate filaments is required to maintain nuclear shape and the fidelity of the nuclear envelope and lamina. Upon depletion of desmin (or nesprin [nuclear envelope spectrin repeat protein]-3, its binding partner in the LINC complex), polymerizing microtubules collapse the nucleus and drive infolding of the nuclear membrane. This results in DNA damage, a loss of genome organization, and broad transcriptional changes. The collapse in nuclear integrity is concomitant with compromised contractile function and may contribute to the pathophysiological changes observed in desmin-related myopathies.

Conclusions:

Disrupting the tethering of desmin to the nucleus results in a loss of nuclear homeostasis and rapid alterations to cardiomyocyte function. Our data suggest that a balance of forces imposed by intermediate filaments and microtubules is required to maintain nuclear structure and genome organization in the cardiomyocyte.
Low‐Dose Aspirin for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Use Patterns and Impact Across Race and Ethnicity in the Southern Community Cohort Study
Authors: Fernandez‐Jimenez Rodrigo , Wang Thomas J. , Fuster Valentin , Blot William J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Data are limited on use patterns of low‐dose aspirin and its role for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) in different racial and ethnic groups.

Methods and Results

Overall, 65 231 non‐Hispanic black and white people aged 40 to 79 years with no history of
CVD
enrolled from 2002 through 2009 in the SCCS (Southern Community Cohort Study). At cohort entry, the simplified Framingham 10‐year
CVD
risk was calculated, and data related to low‐dose aspirin use and clinical and socioeconomic covariates were collected. Race‐ and ethnicity‐specific adjusted odds ratios for characteristics of low‐dose aspirin users and hazard ratios for ischemic cardiac death according to aspirin use were calculated using multivariate logistic and Cox regression models. Black participants were less likely to take low‐dose aspirin compared with white participants, regardless of
CVD
risk and covariates (adjusted odds ratio: 0.79; 95%
CI
, 0.75–0.82). Over a median follow‐up of 11.3 years, low‐dose aspirin use was associated with a trend toward decreased risk of ischemic cardiac death in white participants (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.86; 95%
CI
, 0.68–1.10), especially in women (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.72; 95%
CI
, 0.51–1.02), but not in black participants (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.18; 95%
CI
, 0.98–1.40). Similar trends were observed when the analysis was restricted to high‐risk individuals aged 50 to 69 or 50 to 59 years, ages for which guidelines consider aspirin for
CVD
primary prevention.

Conclusions

Low‐dose aspirin use for primary prevention of
CVD
is lower among black than white patients. Its use might be associated with a disparate impact on ischemic cardiac death according to race and ethnicity. Although additional studies are required, these findings provide no evidence of a beneficial effect of aspirin among black patients for
CVD
primary prevention.
Bibliometrics-based decision trees (BBDTs) based on bibliometrics-based heuristics (BBHs): Visualized guidelines for the use of bibliometrics in research evaluation
Authors: Bornmann Lutz
Published: December 2019

Fast-and-frugal heuristics are simple strategies that base decisions on only a few predictor variables. In so doing, heuristics may not only reduce complexity but also boost the accuracy of decisions, their speed, and transparency. In this paper, bibliometrics-based decision trees (BBDTs) are introduced for research evaluation purposes. BBDTs visualize bibliometrics-based heuristics (BBHs), which are judgment strategies solely using publication and citation data. The BBDT exemplar presented in this paper can be used as guidance to find an answer on the question in which situations simple indicators such as mean citation rates are reasonable and in which situations more elaborated indicators (i.e., [sub-]field-normalized indicators) should be applied.
Article processing charges: Mirroring the citation impact or legacy of the subscription-based model?
Authors: Schönfelder Nina
Published: December 2019

With the ongoing open-access transformation, article processing charges (APCs) are gaining importance as one of the main business models for open-access publishing in scientific journals. This paper analyzes how much of APC pricing can be attributed to journal-related factors. With UK data from OpenAPC (which aggregates fees paid for open-access articles by universities, funders, and research institutions), APCs are explained by the following variables: (a) the “source normalized impact per paper” (SNIP), (b) whether the journal is open access or hybrid, (c) the publisher of the journal, (d) the subject area of the journal, and (e) the year. The results of the multivariate linear regression show that the journal’s impact and hybrid status are the most important factors for the level of APCs. However, the relationship between APC and SNIP is different for open-access journals and hybrid journals. APCs paid to open-access journals were found to be strongly increasing in conjunction with higher journal citation impact, whereas this relationship was observed to be much looser for articles in hybrid journals. This paper goes beyond simple statistics, which have been discussed so far in the literature, by using control variables and applying statistical inference.
Lower plasma vascular endothelial growth factor A in major depressive disorder not normalized after antidepressant treatment: A case control study
Authors: Rigal Adrien , Colle Romain , Asmar Khalil El , Trabado Séverine , Loeb Emanuel , Martin Séverine , Choucha Walid , Gressier Florence , Costemale-Lacoste Jean-Francois , de Larminat Delphine , Deflesselle Eric , Fève Bruno , Chanson Philippe , Becquemont Laurent , Verstuyft Céline , Corruble Emmanuelle
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Vascular endothelial growth factor A is a growth factor with pro-angiogenic and neurotrophic properties. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor A treatments, used to treat cancers and opthalmic diseases, are known to induce depressive symptoms. Thus, we hypothesized that vascular endothelial growth factor A plasma levels are low in patients experiencing a major depressive episode in the context of major depressive disorder, which consequently increase after antidepressant treatment. The aim of this study was to compare plasma vascular endothelial growth factor A levels in patients with major depressive episode-major depressive disorder before and after antidepressant treatment.

Methods:

Vascular endothelial growth factor A fasting plasma levels of 469 major depressive episode-major depressive disorder patients were compared with healthy controls. Depressed patients were assessed for remission after 3 and 6 months of antidepressant treatment. Bivariate and multivariate analyses adjusted for sex, age, body mass index and tobacco use were performed.

Results:

As compared to healthy controls, major depressive episode patients had lower vascular endothelial growth factor A, 66.0 (38.3) pg/mL (standard deviation) vs 83.2 (49.2) pg/mL, p < 0.0001. Plasma vascular endothelial growth factor A levels did not change after antidepressant treatment, even in remitters, and remained lower than those of healthy controls, 64.9 (39.3) pg/mL vs 83.2 (49.2) pg/mL, p < 0.0001.

Conclusion:

Depressed patients with major depressive disorder have lower plasma vascular endothelial growth factor A levels than healthy controls during their major depressive episode and after remission following antidepressant treatment. New strategies targeting enhancement of plasma vascular endothelial growth factor A could be promising for the prevention and treatment of major depressive disorder.
Urban green boosterism and city affordability: For whom is the ‘branded’ green city?
Authors: Garcia-Lamarca Melissa , Anguelovski Isabelle , Cole Helen , Connolly James JT , Argüelles Lucía , Baró Francesc , Loveless Stephanie , Pérez del Pulgar Frowein Carmen , Shokry Galia
Published: December 2019

Increasingly, greening in cities across the Global North is enmeshed in strategies for attracting capital investment, raising the question: for whom is the future green city? Through exploring the relationship between cities’ green boosterist rhetoric, affordability and social equity considerations within greening programmes, this paper examines the extent to which, and why, the degree of green branding – that is, urban green boosterism – predicts the variation in city affordability. We present the results of a mixed methods, macroscale analysis of the greening trajectories of 99 cities in Western Europe, the USA and Canada. Our regression analysis of green rhetoric shows a trend toward higher cost of living among cities with the longest duration and highest intensity green rhetoric. We then use qualitative findings from Nantes, France, and Austin, USA, as two cases to unpack why green boosterism correlates with lower affordability. Key factors determining the relation between urban greening and affordability include the extent of active municipal intervention, redistributional considerations and the historic importance of inclusion and equity in urban development. We conclude by considering what our results mean for the urban greening agenda in the context of an ongoing green growth imperative going forward.
Two Strands of Field Experiments in Economics: A Historical-Methodological Analysis
Authors: Nagatsu Michiru , Favereau Judith
Published: December 2019

While the history and methodology of laboratory experiments in economics have been extensively studied by philosophers, those of field experiments have not attracted much attention until recently. What is the historical context in which field experiments have been advocated? And what are the methodological rationales for conducting experiments in the field as opposed to in the lab? This article addresses these questions by combining historical and methodological perspectives. In terms of history, we show that the movement toward field experiments in economics has two distinct roots. One is the general orientation of medical and social sciences to evidence-based policy evaluation, which gave rise to randomized field experiments in economics (e.g., behavioral public policy, poverty alleviation policy). The other is an awareness of several methodological limitations of lab experiments in economics, which required practitioners to get out of the lab and into the field. In these senses, the movement is a consequence of influences from both outside and inside economics: the general evidence-based trend in policy science and an internal methodological development of experimental economics. In terms of methodology, we show that these two roots resulted in two somewhat different notions of “external validity” as methodological rationales of field experiment. Finally, we suggest that analysis of experiments as exhibits highlights a methodological strategy in which both strands complement each other.