bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erholung der endothelialen Pumpfunktion durch Umverteilung der Hornhautendothelzellen - Geduld kann sich auszahlen
Authors: Bachmann Björn
Published: February 2017

Ziel: Bericht über die Explantation eines abgelösten und getrübten Transplantats als Alternative zu einer zweiten Keratoplastik in einem Fall von persistierender Transplantatablösung und nachfolgender spontaner Clearance der Empfänger-Cornea nach Non-DSAEK (non-Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty). Methoden: Ein 57-jähriger Mann mit Katarakt und bullöser Keratopathie nach Herpes-simplex-Virusendotheliitis des rechten Auges und bestem korrigiertem Visus mit Sehhilfe (best speactacle-corrected visual acuity, BSCVA) von 0,1 unterzog sich einer gleichzeitigen Phakoemulsifikation und Non-DSAEK. Aufgrund frühzeitiger Ablösung des Transplantats waren zwei zusätzliche intrakamerale Luftinjektionen erforderlich, um die Anheftung des Transplantats zu erreichen. Jedoch löste sich das Transplantat graduell weiter ab und wurde fibrotisch, während die empfängereigene Cornea anterior des abgelösten Transplantats transparent und ödemfrei wurde. Daher wurde lediglich eine Explantation des DSAEK-Transplantats durchgeführt. Ergebnisse: Vier Monate nach der Explantation betrug der BSCVA-Wert 0,5 und die Endothelzelldichte (ECD) 1,221 Zellen/mm2. Nach 13 Monaten betrug der BSCVA-Wert weiterhin 0,6, während die ECD auf 800 zurückgegangen war, und zwei Jahre später dekompensierte das Endothel. Der BSCVA-Wert lag zu diesem Zeitpunkt bei 0,3 und die ECD war nicht messbar. Schlussfolgerungen: Unseres Wissens ist dies der erste Bericht über die Explantation eines Endothel-Transplantats als Alternative zu einer erneuten Keratoplastik in einem Fall von spontaner cornealer Clearance. Dieses minimalinvasive Verfahren ist bei vergleichbaren Fällen möglicherweise in Betracht zu ziehen. Angesichts des anhaltenden Verlusts von Endothelzellen nach der endothelialen Keratoplastik kann langfristig dennoch eine erneute Keratoplastik erforderlich werden. © 2017 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg
AMD-Patienten müssen dauerhaft und regelmäßig kontrolliert werden
Authors: Feltgen Nicolas
Published: February 2017

Ziel: Ziel war es, die bei Studienbeginn vorliegenden Merkmale des Partnerauges bei Patienten mit neovaskulärer altersbedingter Makuladegeneration (nAMD) zu beschreiben. Methoden: Es wurde eine gepoolte Post-hoc-Analyse von nAMD-Patienten durchgeführt, die an den VIEW-Studien teilnahmen. In den VIEW-Studien wurde intravitreal injiziertes Aflibercept (monatlich oder alle 2 Monate nach 3 Injektionen 1 × pro Monat) mit monatlich verabreichtem Ranibizumab verglichen. Bewertet wurden der Status der choroidalen Neovaskularisation (CNV) des Partnerauges und der bestkorrigierte Visus (BCVA) bei Studienbeginn sowie der Linsenstatus beider Augen. In weiteren Analysen wurde das Vorhandensein von Drusen und Pigment im Partnerauge bewertet. Ergebnisse: Der Vergleich beider Augen ergab, dass der BCVA zu Studienbeginn bei 23,8% der Partneraugen und bei 75,2% der betroffenen Augen schlechter war. Der Linsenstatus der Partner- und betroffenen Augen war vergleichbar. Der Visus des betroffenen Auges und des Partnerauges zu Studienbeginn wurden nicht korreliert. Die meisten Partneraugen wiesen Anzeichen von AMD im Frühstadium auf, wobei 34,6% (n = 843) der Partneraugen eine Vernarbung zeigten. Schlussfolgerungen: Bei den Patienten in den VIEW-Studien zeigten sich in den meisten Partneraugen Hinweise auf AMD. Dies unterstreicht die Wichtigkeit, beide Augen zu untersuchen, gefolgt von einer engmaschigen Nachsorge, um CNV möglichst frühzeitig zu erkennen und zu behandeln.
Impact of Prostate Involvement on Outcomes in Patients Treated with Radical Cystoprostatectomy for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Moschini Marco , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Freschi Massimo , Soria Francesco , Abufaraj Mohammad , Gandaglia Giorgio , Dell'Oglio Paolo , Mattei Agostino , Damiano Rocco , Salonia Andrea , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto , Gallina Andrea , Colombo Renzo
Published: February 2017

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of the different types of prostate involvement at the time of radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP). Methods: Data from 893 male patients treated with RCP at a referral center for bladder cancer (BCa) were assessed. Prostatic urothelial carcinoma (PUC) was stratified as stromal vs. urethral/duct involvements. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were built to test the impact of the presence of incidental prostate cancer (PCa) and PUC on survival outcomes. Results: PCa was present in 319 (35.7%) RCP patients, of which 45 (14.1%) had significant PCa disease. PUC was identified in 181 patients (20%): 75 (41.1%) with urethral/duct involvement and 106 (58.6%) with stromal. Within a median follow-up of 72 months, stromal PUC, but not the other forms of PUC or PCa, was associated with worse survival outcomes. In multivariable analyses adjusted for the effects of standard features, stromal PUC remained associated with recurrence (hazards ratio [HR] 2.01, p = 0.03), cancer-specific mortality (HR 1.65, p = 0.01), and overall mortality (HR 1.45, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Prostatic stromal invasion with urothelial carcinoma confers a poor survival expectation to BCa patients after surgical treatment. Conversely, other type of urothelial prostatic invasions or the presence of concomitant PCa does not seem to be associated with differences in survival outcomes.
Perioperative Hemodynamic Instability and Fluid Overload are Associated with Increasing Acute Kidney Injury Severity and Worse Outcome after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Haase-Fielitz Anja , Haase Michael , Bellomo Rinaldo , Calzavacca Paolo , Spura Anke , Baraki Hassina , Kutschka Ingo , Albert Christian
Published: February 2017

Purpose: The study aimed to investigate patients' characteristics, fluid and hemodynamic management, and outcomes according to the severity of cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI). Methods: In a single-center, prospective cohort study, we enrolled 282 adult cardiac surgical patients. In a secondary analysis, we assessed preoperative patients' characteristics, physiological variables, and medication for intra- and postoperative fluid and hemodynamic management and outcomes according to CSA-AKI stages by the Renal risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End-stage renal disease (RIFLE) classification. Variables of fluid and hemodynamic management were further assessed with regard to the need for postoperative renal replacement therapy (RRT) and in-hospital mortality by the area under the curve for the receiver operating characteristic (AUC-ROC) and multivariate regression analysis. Results: Patients with worsening RIFLE stage, were significantly older, had lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and higher body mass index, more peripheral vascular and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, atrial fibrillation, and prolonged duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (all p < 0.01). Patients with more severe AKI stage stayed longer in the intensive care and hospital, had higher in-hospital mortality, and requirement for RRT (all p < 0.001). Also, with worsening RIFLE stage, patients had lower intraoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP); p = 0.047, despite higher doses of norepinephrine (p < 0.001). The intraoperative MAP showed the best discriminatory ability (AUC-ROC: >0.8) for and was independently associated with RRT and in-hospital mortality. Moreover, with increasing AKI severity, patients received significantly more fluid infusion, and required higher dose of furosemide; nonetheless, they had increased postoperative fluid balance. Conclusions: In this cohort, reduced MAP and increased fluid balance were independently associated with increased mortality and need for RRT after cardiac surgery.
Pathogenesis of Double-Dose Proton Pump Inhibitor-Resistant Non-Erosive Reflux Disease, and Mechanism of Reflux Symptoms and Gastric Acid Secretion-Suppressive Effect in the Presence or Absence of Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Kawami Noriyuki , Takenouchi Nana , Umezawa Mariko , Hoshino Shintaro , Hanada Yuriko , Hoshikawa Yoshimasa , Sano Hirohito , Hoshihara Yoshio , Nomura Tsutomu , Uchida Eiji , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: February 2017

Background: Various mechanisms have been suggested to be responsible for contributing to the occurrence of proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-resistant non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). The aims of this study were to clarify the pathogenesis of PPI-resistant NERD. Methods: Fifty-three patients with NERD, who had persistent reflux symptoms despite taking double-dose PPI, were included in this study. After excluding eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and primary esophageal motility disorder, esophageal impedance-pH monitoring was carried out. In symptom index (SI)-positive patients, the mechanism of SI positivity and the percent time with intragastric pH >4 were investigated according to the presence or absence of Helicobacter pylori infection. Results: One of the 53 patients had EoE, and 4 had primary esophageal motility disorder. Twenty-three and 2 patients were SI-positive for liquid and gas-only reflux respectively. Of 17 SI-positive, H. pylori-negative patients, 5 were SI-positive for acid reflux, whereas all of the H. pylori-positive patients were SI-positive for non-acid reflux. The percent time with intragastric pH >4 was significantly lower in the H. pylori-negative patients than in the H. pylori-positive patients. Conclusions: The pathogenesis of double-dose PPI-resistant NERD was identified in 57%. In some of H. pylori-negative patients, acid-related symptoms were observed. However, in H. pylori-positive patients, these symptoms were excluded by taking double-dose PPI.
Plexiform Neurofibroma Involving the Lacrimal Gland
Authors: Hofsli Mikael , Gampenrieder Nico , Heegaard Steffen
Published: February 2017

Background: To present a rare case of a 2-year-old girl with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) who presented with ptosis of the right upper eyelid along with a tumor in the eyelid. Methods: A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the orbit revealed a solid tumor located extraconally at the site of the right lacrimal gland. A transcranial orbitotomy was performed. Results: Histopathological examination demonstrated expanded nerve branches/fascicles cut in various planes in between normal lacrimal gland acini. These findings were consistent with a plexiform neurofibroma presumably deriving from the lacrimal nerve and/or a supraorbital nerve branch. Conclusion: This is the first case of a plexiform neurofibroma involving the lacrimal gland ever described and the tumor shows similarities with neurofibroma in other salivary glands with a high recurrence rate. Plexiform neurofibromas are frequently seen in patients with NF1 and rarely undergo malignant transformation.
Alterations of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Expression in the Nervous System of the Rat Cystitis Model
Authors: Lee Kwang Woo , Kim Woong Bin , Lee Sang Wook , Kim Jae Heon , Kim Jun Mo , Kim Young Ho , Kim Min Eui
Published: February 2017

Objective: We evaluated the changes in the migration inhibitory factor (MIF) expression with time in the bladder and spinal cord of a Sprague-Dawley rat cystitis model. Methods: The bladder created by injecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the lumbosacral spinal cord were removed at 4, 24, and 48 h, and 7 days after the induction of chronic cystitis, and 24 h after the induction of acute cystitis. The MIF expression was estimated using immunohistochemical staining, and the MIF mRNA was quantitatively analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The MIF expression in the urothelial cell was lowest at 24 h after LPS injection. As the degree of inflammation decreased, the MIF expression in the urothelial cell gradually increased 48 h and 7 days. The quantitative analysis of the MIF mRNA showed that the MIF expression was highest in both the bladder and the lumbosacral spinal cord 24 h after the cystitis became most severe. In chronic cystitis, the MIF mRNA expressions in the bladder and the lumbosacral spinal cord were 2.8 and 2.1 times significantly higher than in the normal control. Conclusion: MIF is involved in urinary symptoms and pain in cystitis, and in the mechanism that prolongs the symptoms of chronic cystitis by involving bladder tissue, and the nervous system.
Stimulation of Erythrocyte Cell Membrane Scrambling by Adarotene
Authors: Mischitelli Morena , Jemaàa Mohamed , Fezai MyriamFezai , Almasry Mustafa , Lang Florian , Faggio Caterina
Published: February 2017

Background/Aims: The atypical retinoid E23-(40-hydroxyl-30-adamantylbiphenyl-4-yl) acrylic acid (ST1926, adarotene) is used in the treatment of malignancy. The effect of ST1926 is at least in part due to stimulation of apoptosis. Similar to apoptosis of nucleated cells, erythrocytes may enter eryptosis, the suicidal death of erythrocytes. Hallmarks of eryptosis include cell shrinkage and cell membrane scrambling with phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Signaling involved in the stimulation of eryptosis includes increase of cytosolic Ca2+ activity [Ca2+]i, oxidative stress and ceramide. The present study explored, whether adarotene induces eryptosis and, if so, to test for the involvement of Ca2+ entry, oxidative stress and ceramide. Methods: Flow cytometry was employed to estimate phosphatidylserine exposure at the cell surface from annexin-V-binding, cell volume from forward scatter, [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation from DCFDA dependent fluorescence, and ceramide abundance utilizing specific antibodies. Results: A 48 hours exposure of human erythrocytes to adarotene (9 µM) significantly increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells, an effect paralleled by significant decrease of forward scatter, as well as significant increase of Fluo3-fluorescence, DCFDA fluorescence, and ceramide abundance. The effect of adarotene (9 µM) on annexin-V-binding was significantly blunted but not abolished by removal of extracellular Ca2+. Conclusions: Adarotene stimulates phospholipid scrambling of the erythrocyte cell membrane, an effect paralleled by and at least in part due to Ca2+ entry, oxidative stress and ceramide.
MiR-125b Regulates the Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Targeting BMPR1b
Authors: Wang Huaqing , Xie Zhao , Hou Tianyong , Li Zhiqiang , Huang Ke , Gong Jicheng , Zhou Wei , Tang Kanglai , Xu Jianzhong , Dong Shiwu
Published: February 2017

Background/Aims: Osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) plays a crucial role in bone regeneration and bone reparation. This complex process is regulated precisely and firmly by specific factors. Recent studies have demonstrated that miR-125b regulates osteogenic differentiation, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms of this regulation. Furthermore, how miR-125b regulates the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs still needs elucidation. Methods: In the present study, human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were isolated and induced to osteoblasts with miR-125b inhibition or overexpression. qRT-PCR and western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of osteogenic marker genes and proteins. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alizarin Red (ARS) staining were performed to evaluate the osteoblast phenotype. TargetScan, PicTar and miRanda database were used to predict the target gene of miR-125b. Dual luciferase reporter assay and RNA interference were performed to verify the target gene. Micro-CT imaging and histochemical staining were used to investigate the bone defect repair capacity of miR-125b in vivo. Results: We observed that miR-125b was expressed at a low level during the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. Then, we found that osteogenic marker genes were negatively regulated by miR-125b during the course of osteogenic differentiation, suggesting that miR-125b down regulation plays an important role in the process of osteogenic differentiation. Bioinformatics approaches using miRNA target prediction algorithms indicated that the bone morphogenetic protein type Ib receptor (BMPR1b) is a potential target of miR-125b. The results of the dual luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-125b binds to the 3’-UTR of the BMPR1b gene. We observed that knockdown of BMPR1b by siRNA inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. Furthermore, by co-transfecting cells with an miR-125b inhibitor and si-BMPR1b, we found that the osteogenic capacity of the cells transfected with miR-125b inhibitor was blocked upon knockdown of BMPR1b. In vivo, demineralized bone matrix (DBM) was composited with hBMSCs as a scaffold to repair segmental femoral defects. By inhibiting the expression of miR-125b, hBMSCs showed a better capacity to repair bone defects. Conclusions: Taken together, our study demonstrated that miR-125b regulated the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by targeting BMPR1b and that inhibiting miR-125b expression could enhance the capacity of bone defect repair in vivo.
Protective Effects of Fluvastatin on Reproductive Function in Obese Male Rats Induced by High-Fat Diet through Enhanced Signaling of mTOR
Authors: Cui Xiangrong , Long Chunlan , Zhu Jing , Tian Jie
Published: February 2017

Background: Statins can reduce reproductive damage induced by obesity or high-fat diet (HFD), but the specific regulatory mechanisms are largely unknown. Since mTOR/p70s6k sinaling promotes spermatogonia proliferation and spermatogenesis, we hypothesized that this pathway will be involved in the protective effects of statin in HFD-induced reproductive dysfunction. Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats (3 weeks old) were randomly divided into a control group (standard diet), HFD group, and a fluvastatin group (HFD + fluvastatin at 6mg/kg, once daily by oral gavage). After 8 weeks, body weight was obtain and rats were sacrificed. Weights of the testes, gross morphology, sperm parameters, circulating levels of sex hormones, lipid levels, and tissue mTOR, p-P70s6k were measured. Another set of male rats were treated with rapamycin or vehicle. Flow cytometry was used to detect the spermatogonia marker c-kit and cell cycle. p-P70s6k expression was analyzed by Western blot. Results: HFD not only results in rat obesity but also leads to spermatogenetic damage and fluvastatin was able to partially block the effects of HFD. Fluvastatin also partially reversed the suppression of mTOR and p-p70s6k expresson. Conclusion: Our data suggest that fluvastatin has protective effects on reproductive function in obese male rats most probably through enhanced signaling of mTOR.
Bone Metastases in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: Frequency and Clinical, Therapeutic, and Prognostic Relevance
Authors: Scharf Michael , Petry Vanessa , Daniel Hanna , Rinke Anja , Gress Thomas Matthias
Published: February 2017

Background: The incidence and prevalence of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are rising. In view of continuously improving imaging techniques, more than half of the patients present with distant metastases at initial diagnosis. An advanced disease stage negatively correlates with the 5-year survival rate. In stage IV disease, bone metastases (BM) are frequent, yet knowledge concerning their clinical or prognostic relevance is rare. This study presents a single-center experience on the frequency and management of BM in patients with gastroenteropancreatic NEN and lung carcinoids. Methods: Between 2000 and June 2015, 327 of 677 patients treated in the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) center in Marburg (Germany) presented with distant metastases (48.3%), including 85 patients (12.6%) with BM. Data of both groups were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Overall survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier curves and compared by log-rank test. Results: Median age in the BM group was 54.9 years, the small intestine and the pancreas being the most common primaries. 83.5% of the tumors were well and moderately differentiated (G1/G2). Nearly half of the patients with BM were symptomatic and suffered either from pain (42.4%) or had fractures (11.7%). Bisphosphonates were employed in almost two-thirds of the patients, radiation therapy in 25.9%. Overall survival was significantly inferior in patients with BM than in those with other distant metastases (p = 0.01; 49.0 vs. 100.8 months). Conclusion: BM appear to have a significant clinical and prognostic impact. Further studies are needed to evaluate therapeutic approaches directed to the treatment of BM in particular for asymptomatic patients.
Chemotherapy for Well-Differentiated Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours with a Ki-67 Index ≥10%: Is There a More Effective Antitumour Regimen? A Retrospective Multicentre Study of the French Group of Endocrine Tumours (GTE)
Authors: Roquin Guillaume , Baudin Eric , Lombard-Bohas Catherine , Cadiot Guillaume , Dominguez Sophie , Guimbaud Rosine , Niccoli Patricia , Legoux Jean-Louis , Mitry Emmanuel , Rohmer Vincent , Ruszniewski Philippe , Walter Thomas , Ducreux Michel , Couvelard Anne , Scoazec Jean-Yves , Ramond-Roquin Aline , Caroli-Bosc François-Xavier , Hentic Olivia
Published: February 2017

Background: The best chemotherapy regimen for well- differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (pNETs) with a Ki-67 index ≥10% is still debated. We evaluated the antitumour efficacy of various first-line chemotherapy regimens (streptozocin based, platinum based, or dacarbazine/temozolomide based) in this situation. Methods: In this retrospective multicentre study of the French Group of Endocrine Tumours (GTE), we recruited consecutive patients with advanced well-differentiated pNETs and a Ki-67 index ≥10% receiving chemotherapy between 2000 and 2012. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) according to RECIST. Results: Seventy-four patients (42 men, median age 55.5 years) were enrolled from 10 centres. Fifty-one patients (69%) had grade 2 NET and 61 (82%) were stage IV. Median overall survival was 36.3 months. Forty-four patients (59%) received streptozocin-based, 18 (24%) platinum-based, and 12 (16%) dacarbazine/temozolomide-based chemotherapy regimens. These 3 groups were similar regarding age, functioning tumours, grade, the number of metastatic sites, and surgery for primary tumours, but not regarding surgery for metastases and time since diagnosis. Grade 3 NET (HR 2.15, 95% CI: 1.18-3.92, p = 0.012) and age above 55 years (HR 1.84, 95% CI: 1.06-3.18, p = 0.030) were associated with shorter median PFS in the multivariate analyses. Compared to streptozocin-based chemotherapy, no difference was found in terms of PFS for the platinum-based or for the dacarbazine/temozolomide-based chemotherapy regimen: median PFS was 7.2, 7.5, and 7.2 months, respectively (p = 0.51). Conclusions: Patients with intermediate or highly proliferative well-differentiated pNETs may benefit from 1 of the 3 chemotherapy regimens. Increased age and grade 3 were associated with shorter median PFS. Randomised studies searching for response predictors and the best efficacy-tolerance ratio are required to personalise the strategy.
Minimization of Starting Energy Loss of Three Phase Induction Motors based on Particle Swarm Optimization and Neuro Fuzzy Network
Authors: Elkholy Mahmoud M. , A. Elhameed Mohamed
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to minimize energy losses consumed by the induction motor during starting with wide range of load torque from no load to full load. This will limit the temperature rise and allows for more numbers of starting during a definite time. Starting energy losses minimization is achieved by controlling the rate of increasing voltage and frequency to start induction motor under certain load torque within a definite starting time. Optimal voltage and frequency are obtained by particle swarm optimization (PSO) tool according to load torque. Then, outputs of the PSO are used to design a neuro-fuzzy controller to control the output voltage and frequency of the inverter during starting for each load torque. The starting characteristics using proposed method are compared to starting characteristics using direct on line method and V/F method. A complete model of the system is developed using SIMULINK/MATLAB.
An Improved of Multiple Harmonic Sources Identification in Distribution System with Inverter Loads by Using Spectrogram
Authors: Jopri M.H. , Abdullah A.R. , Manap M. , Yusoff M.R. , Sutikno T. , Habban M.F.
Published: February 2017

This paper introduces an improved of multiple harmonic sources identification that been produced by inverter loads in power system using time-frequency distribution (TFD) analysis which is spectrogram.  The spectrogram is a very applicable method to represent signals in time-frequency representation (TFR) and the main advantages of spectrogram are the accuracy, speed of the algorithm and use low memory size such that it can be computed rapidly. The identification of multiple harmonic sources is based on the significant relationship of spectral impedances which are the fundamental impedance (Z1) and harmonic impedance (Zh) that extracted from TFR. To verify the accuracy of the proposed method, MATLAB simulations carried out several unique cases with different harmonic producing loads on IEEE 4-bus test feeder cases. It is proven that the proposed method is superior with 100% correct identification of multiple harmonic sources. It is envisioned that the method is very accurate, fast and cost efficient to localize harmonic sources in distribution system.
A linguagem da embriaguez: cachaça e álcool no vocabulário político das rebeliões na América portuguesa
Authors: Figueiredo Luciano Raposo de Almeida
Published: February 2017

Semelhante ao que se passa na Europa durante a Idade Moderna foi frequente no Brasil colônia a atribuição de embriaguez aos grupos que promoveram protestos e rebeliões. O recurso discursivo pretendia desqualificar a legitimidade das reivindicações ao plasmar no imaginário político os rebeldes e a bebida alcóolica consumida por escravos.
Association of Implementation of Practice Standards for Electrocardiographic Monitoring With Nurses’ Knowledge, Quality of Care, and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Funk Marjorie , Fennie Kristopher P. , Stephens Kimberly E. , May Jeanine L. , Winkler Catherine G. , Drew Barbara J. , Borman Barbara , Calcasola Stephanie , Carey Mary , Currie Laura , Davis Leslie , Fitzpatrick Eleanor , Fleischman Rhonda , Hawkins Darice , Hazlewood Elise , Henry Rebecca , Honess Cindy , Kalowes Peggy , Ann Kearns Sharon , Leeper Bobbi , Liggett Joseph , Lusardi Paula , Lynn Carol , Man Manbo , McCauley Kathleen , Hing Mei , Pang Anita , Parkosewich Janet , Phillips JoAnne , Robinson Anne , Salazar Noraliza , Sandau Kristin , Piper Sandoval Cass , Sangkachand Prasama , Shaffer Rose , Sherrard Heather , Smith Maureen , Stamm Rebecca , Strang Vickie , Tee Nancy , Wells Krisna , White Paula
Published: February 2017

Background—

Although continuous electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring is ubiquitous in hospitals, monitoring practices are inconsistent. We evaluated implementation of American Heart Association practice standards for ECG monitoring on nurses’ knowledge, quality of care, and patient outcomes.

Methods and Results—

The PULSE (Practical Use of the Latest Standards of Electrocardiography) Trial was a 6-year multisite randomized clinical trial with crossover that took place in 65 cardiac units in 17 hospitals. We measured outcomes at baseline, time 2 after group 1 hospitals received the intervention, and time 3 after group 2 hospitals received the intervention. Measurement periods were 15 months apart. The 2-part intervention consisted of an online ECG monitoring education program and strategies to implement and sustain change in practice. Nurses’ knowledge (N=3013 nurses) was measured by a validated 20-item online test, quality of care related to ECG monitoring (N=4587 patients) by on-site observation, and patient outcomes (mortality, in-hospital myocardial infarction, and not surviving a cardiac arrest; N=95 884 hospital admissions) by review of administrative, laboratory, and medical record data. Nurses’ knowledge improved significantly immediately after the intervention in both groups but was not sustained 15 months later. For most measures of quality of care (accurate electrode placement, accurate rhythm interpretation, appropriate monitoring, and ST-segment monitoring when indicated), the intervention was associated with significant improvement, which was sustained 15 months later. Of the 3 patient outcomes, only in-hospital myocardial infarction declined significantly after the intervention and was sustained.

Conclusions—

Online ECG monitoring education and strategies to change practice can lead to improved nurses’ knowledge, quality of care, and patient outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01269736.
Imperial Colonialism in the Genesis of International Law – Anomaly or Time of Transition?
Authors: Starski Paulina , Kämmerer Jörn Axel
Published: February 2017

Drawing on the works of Alexandrowicz and Grewe, this article intends to illustrate the relevance of colonialism to the evolution of present, universal international law. The central question addressed is as follows: Do we have to regard the exclusionist international law of the imperial era (culminating in the late 19th century) as an anomaly, or ‘accident’ in international relations and hence the achievement of universal participation half a century later as a ‘return to normalcy’, or was colonialism, alongside the law that governed it, a period of transition from international law as a genuinely European order to the universal order it is today? Alexandrowicz’s and Grewe’s answers to these questions appear to be diametrically opposed. More important than judging who of them is right is understanding why these scholars arrived at such diverging conclusions.
Phylogenetic analysis of Andinia (Pleurothallidinae; Orchidaceae) and a systematic re-circumscription of the genus
Authors: WILSON MARK , FRANK GRAHAM S. , JOST LOU , PRIDGEON ALEC M. , VIEIRA-URIBE SEBASTIAN , KARREMANS ADAM P.
Published: February 2017

Most of the species studied in this paper have previously been placed in either Pleurothallis or Lepanthes. However, at one time or another, members of the group have also been placed in the genera Andinia, Brachycladium, Lueranthos, Masdevalliantha, Neooreophilus, Oreophilus, Penducella, Salpistele and Xenosia. Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear ITS and plastid matK sequences indicate that these species form a strongly supported clade that is only distantly related to Lepanthes and is distinct from Pleurothallis and Salpistele. Since this clade includes the type species of Andinia, A. dielsii, and it has taxonomic precedence over all other generic names belonging to this group, Andinia is re-circumscribed and expanded to include 72 species segregated into five subgenera: Aenigma, Andinia, Brachycladium, Masdevalliantha and Minuscula. The required taxonomic transfers are made herein. We hypothesize that convergent evolution towards a similar pollinator syndrome involving deceit pollination via pseudocopulation by Diptera resulted in a similar floral morphology between species of subgenus Brachycladium and species of Lepanthes; hence the prior placement of the species of subgenus Brachycladium in Lepanthes. Species of the re-circumscribed Andinia are confined exclusively to the Andes, ranging from about 1,200 to 3,800 m, from Colombia south to Bolivia, making the generic name very apt. Elevational distributions of the individual clades are discussed in relation to the possible evolutionary diversification of the most species-rich clade, subgenus Brachycladium.
Propagating Annular Modes: Empirical Orthogonal Functions, Principal Oscillation Patterns, and Time Scales
Authors: Sheshadri Aditi , Plumb R. Alan
Published: February 2017

The two leading empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) of zonal-mean zonal wind describe north–south fluctuations, and intensification and narrowing, respectively, of the midlatitude jet. Under certain circumstances, these two leading EOFs cannot be regarded as independent but are in fact manifestations of a single, coupled, underlying mode of the dynamical system describing the evolution in time of zonal wind anomalies. The true modes are revealed by the principal oscillation patterns (POPs). The leading mode and its associated eigenvalue are complex, its structure involves at least two EOFs, and it describes poleward (or equatorward) propagation of zonal-mean zonal wind anomalies. In this propagating regime, the principal component (PC) time series associated with the two leading EOFs decay nonexponentially, and the response of the system to external forcing in a given EOF does not depend solely on the PC decorrelation time nor on the projection of the forcing onto that EOF. These considerations are illustrated using results from an idealized dynamical core model. Results from Southern Hemisphere ERA-Interim data are partly consistent with the behavior of the model’s propagating regime. Among other things, these results imply that the time scale that determines the sensitivity of a model to external forcing might be different from the decorrelation time of the leading PC and involves both the rate of decay of the dynamical mode and the period associated with propagation.
Atmospheric Energetics over the Tropical Pacific during the ENSO Cycle
Authors: Dong Di , Li Jianping , Huyan Lidou , Xue Jiaqing
Published: February 2017

The atmospheric perturbation potential energy (PPE) over the tropical Pacific is calculated and analyzed in a composite ENSO cycle. The PPE over the tropical Pacific troposphere increases during El Niño and decreases during La Niña, displaying two centers symmetrical about the equator and delaying the central–eastern Pacific SST anomaly by two months. Generated from atmospheric diabatic heating, the smaller part of PPE in the lower troposphere varies synchronously with the central–eastern Pacific SST through sensible heating, while the larger part of PPE lies in the mid- and upper troposphere and lags the central–eastern Pacific SST about one season because of latent heat release. As the tropical Pacific PPE peaks during the boreal late winter in an El Niño event, two anticyclones form in the upper troposphere as a result of the Gill model response. More PPE is converted to atmospheric kinetic energy (KE) above the central–western Pacific, but less over the eastern Pacific, leading to intensified Hadley circulations over the central–western Pacific and weakened Hadley circulations over the eastern Pacific. The strengthened Hadley circulations cause surface easterly wind bursts through KE convergence in the western equatorial Pacific, which may trigger a La Niña event. The reverse situation occurs during La Niña. Thus, the response of the Hadley circulations in the central–western Pacific provides a negative feedback during the ENSO cycle.
Fractal Analysis of Deep Ocean Current Speed Time Series
Authors: Cabrera-Brito Laura , Rodriguez German , García-Weil Luis , Pacheco Mercedes , Perez Esther , Waniek Joanna J.
Published: February 2017

Fractal properties of deep ocean current speed time series, measured at a single-point mooring on the Madeira Abyssal Plain at 1000- and 3000-m depth, are explored over the range between one week and 5 years, by using the detrended fluctuation analysis and multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis methodologies. The detrended fluctuation analysis reveals the existence of two subranges with different scaling behaviors. Long-range temporal correlations following a power law are found in the time-scale range between approximately 50 days and 5 years, while a Brownian motion–type behavior is observed for shorter time scales. The multifractal analysis approach underlines a multifractal structure whose intensity decreases with depth. The analysis of the shuffled and surrogate versions of the original time series shows that multifractality is mainly due to long-range correlations, although there is a weak nonlinear contribution at 1000-m depth, which is confirmed by the detrended fluctuation analysis of volatility time series.
Situational Salience of Norms Moderates Cultural Differences in the Originality and Usefulness of Creative Ideas Generated or Selected by Teams
Authors: Liou Shyhnan , Lan Xuezhao
Published: February 2017

This study examines how culture affects the normative processes implicated in cultural differences in creative behaviors. Western norms prioritize originality and Eastern norms usefulness. In a cross-cultural study, we found significant performance differences in terms of originality and usefulness between Americans and Taiwanese only when these norms were salient, as when the task required individuals to select ideas (vs. generate new ideas) or to work in a group (vs. work alone). Compared with Taiwanese, Americans generated more original ideas when they worked in a group or when the task required them to select ideas for further elaboration. When required to select ideas in a group, norms were most salient and Americans’ relative advantage over Taiwanese in originality was most pronounced. In contrast, compared with Americans, Taiwanese generated more useful ideas when they worked in a group or when the task required them to select ideas for further elaboration. When required to select ideas in a group, Taiwanese’s advantage over Americans in usefulness was most pronounced. Moreover, although Americans and Taiwanese were equally capable of generating original and useful ideas, Taiwanese teams tended to express useful ideas and hold back original ones in group discussion. In contrast, American teams tended to hold back useful ideas. The theoretical and future research implications of these findings are discussed.
Established, accelerated and emergent themes in flexible work research
Authors: Bessa Ioulia , Tomlinson Jennifer
Published: February 2017

Flexible labour markets, flexible working arrangements and motivations behind their use are established and expanding strands of sociology of work and employment relations research. This article provides a review of key themes and debates connected to workplace flexibility between 2000 and 2015 utilising research located in leading sociology of work, employment relations, industrial relations and human resource management (HRM) journals, in addition to key texts published during this time period. We establish that flexible work research is a growing area of research and focus our analysis on identifying key themes categorised as established, accelerated and emergent. We conclude with areas of contention yet to be resolved and possible avenues for future directions in flexible work research, noting a disconnection between macro analyses of flexibility at the economic level and the focus on flexible working-time arrangements at the workplace level. Furthermore we observed few quantitative multi-level modelling analyses or multi-methods research designs. To that end, analyses that can synthesise these literatures would enhance the field, as might innovations in methodological approaches which advance multi-level modelling and multi-method designs to give multiple and dynamic perspectives.
Do As I Say, Not As I Do
Authors: Logan Diane E. , Mastroleo Nadine R. , Wood Mark D. , Borsari Brian
Published: February 2017

Little is known about the drinking behaviors and perceptions of the peers facilitating campus alcohol interventions. The current study examined these trajectories in peer counselors ( N = 12) providing personalized normative feedback interventions to undergraduates mandated to clinical services. Peer counselors completed four monthly self-assessments. In spite of facilitating interventions to reduce drinking and associated harms, peer drinking behaviors and expectancies did not change, although significant between subjects effects suggest various trajectories. Peer counselors did correct overestimates of binge drinking but progressively underestimated abstinence norms. Despite the lack of change in the peer counselor behaviors, the mandated clients significantly reduced their drinking, suggesting it may be more important to “Do as I Say” rather than as the facilitator does.
Position control for a two-joint robot finger system driven by pneumatic artificial muscles
Authors: Zhao Ling , Ge Linlin , Wang Tao
Published: February 2017

In this paper, position control is addressed for a two-joint robot finger system driven by pneumatic artificial muscles. It is hard to obtain high precision control for a two-joint robot finger system due to coupling and nonlinearities. A two-input and two-output decoupling problem is solved via active disturbance rejection control without complicated calculations. An extended state observer is designed to estimate the nonlinearities. Furthermore, the stability of the two-joint robot finger system is shown by a back-stepping method. Results from experiments are demonstrated to show the effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Weighted parametric model identification of induction motors with variable loads using FNN structure and NN2TF algorithm
Authors: Tutunji Tarek A , Saleem Ashraf
Published: February 2017

Induction motors exhibit non-linear behaviour and are difficult to model. Furthermore, load disparities cause speed variations and therefore predicting the motor’s response is challenging. In this paper, feedforward neural networks (FNNs) are used to model induction motors at two load levels (i.e. no-load and full-load). The two FNN models are then transformed into auto-regressive moving-average (ARMA) models using a new NN2TF algorithm. A weighted parametric model is then formulated by combining both ARMA models to provide appropriate transfer functions at different loads ranging from no-load to full-load. In order to validate the developed model, experimental data (with voltage/speed as input/output) is collected from an induction motor plant at five different load levels and used to test the proposed model. Simulation results show that the estimated model produced dynamic responses that follow the experimental data with good accuracy, regardless of the load.
Systematic Review of Video-Based Instruction Component and Parametric Analyses
Authors: Bennett Kyle D. , Aljehany Mashal Salman , Altaf Enas Mohammednour
Published: February 2017

Video-based instruction (VBI) has a substantial amount of research supporting its use with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. However, it has typically been implemented as a treatment package containing multiple interventions. Additionally, there are procedural variations of VBI. Thus, it is difficult to determine which components and characteristics/parameters of VBI are more or less responsible for behavior change. Researchers have conducted comparative studies using single-subject design research to understand the relative effectiveness of the components and parameters routinely used as part of VBI treatment packages. The purpose of this article was to systematically review the literature on VBI comparative studies whereby component and parametric analyses were conducted. Twenty-four studies met our inclusion criteria. The features and results of these studies are summarized, and implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Nutritional adequacy of meals from an independent catering facility versus chain restaurants for young adults
Authors: Nikolaou Charoula Konstantia , Hankey Catherine Ruth , Lean Michael Ernest John
Published: February 2017

Background:

Eating out of home has been associated with the increasing prevalence of obesity. While some chain restaurants provide nutritional information for their products, smaller independent catering facilities may not provide such information. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional adequacy of meals provided to young adults at an independent catering facility and compare them with meals provided by chain restaurants.

Methods:

Meals were analysed in 2014 in the UK in relation of nutrient provision to targets for macro- and micro-nutrients. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare menus between the restaurants included in the analyses.

Results:

2056 meal combinations were analysed, 210 from the student accommodation and 1,846 from five largest national chain restaurants. Mean (SD) nutritional content was: student accommodation: 1193(269)kcal, fat 52.0(22)g, saturated fat 24.5(14.5)g, protein 42.4(28.5)g, carbohydrate 117.0(30)g; chain restaurants: 922(160)kcal, fat 40.0(9.7)g, saturated fat 14.5(5.8)g, protein 31.2(6.5)g, carbohydrate 104.2(16.6)g. Meals from the student accommodation presented significantly more calories than the meals in all five chain restaurants ( p = 0.0015).

Conclusions:

Meal provision in the student accommodation was in excess of energy requirements and higher than the meals offered in chain restaurants. Regulating or setting nutritional standards for all places that provide food is essential as current food provision may favour unwanted weight gain and diet-related diseases.
Size Perception and the Foundation of Numerical Processing
Authors: Henik Avishai , Gliksman Yarden , Kallai Arava , Leibovich Tali
Published: February 2017

Research in numerical cognition has led to a widely accepted view of the existence of innate, domain-specific, core numerical knowledge that involves the intraparietal sulcus in the brain. Much of this research has revolved around the ability to perceive and manipulate discrete quantities (e.g., enumeration of dots). We question several aspects of this accepted view and suggest that continuous noncountable dimensions might play an important role in the development of numerical cognition. Accordingly, we propose that a relatively neglected aspect of performance—the ability to perceive and evaluate sizes or amounts—might be an important foundation of numerical processing. This ability might even constitute a more primitive system that has been used throughout evolutionary history as the basis for the development of the number sense and numerical abilities.
Diffusing Environmental Regulation through the Financial Services Sector: Reforms in the EU and other Jurisdictions
Authors: Richardson Benjamin J.
Published: February 2017

The financial services sector has the potential to be an important facet of future systems of environmental governance. But, so far, only ad hoc policy initiatives have arisen in the EU and other countries addressing the environmental roles of banks or insurers. Because the financial services sector is where wholesale decisions regarding future development, and thus pressures on the environment, arise, reform of investment, banking and insurance services to promote long term investment and better consideration of environmental impacts may be an effective way to promote sustainable development. Reforms such as corporate environmental reporting requirements, mandatory environmental liability insurance, and lender liability for borrowers' environmental harms, are some of the ways in which an institutional framework for mobilizing financial organizations as instruments of environmental regulation could be constructed.
The Protection of Privacy between a Rights-Based and a Freedom-Based Approach: What the Swiss Example Can Teach us
Authors: Lemmens Koen
Published: February 2017

There has been a fierce debate amongst scholars about the way privacy ought to be protected in civil law countries. The key issue at stake is the question whether this protection should be implemented via so-called ‘personality rights’ (i.e. a special category of subjective rights) or whether it would be more appropriate to conceive privacy in terms of fundamental freedoms. It goes without saying that this choice entails important practical and theoretical consequences.

In this article, I will first try to summary the different viewpoints, indicating each time the pros and contras. Then, I will deal with the Swiss way of privacy protection, for I believe that it shows clearly that the sketched ‘doctrinal’ opposition should not be overestimated and that it should be possible to conciliate the two approaches to privacy.