bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of per-operative cough stress test during transobturator mid-urethral sling surgery
Authors: Simsek Abdulmuttalip , Kirecci Sinan Levent , Bayar Goksel , Horasanli Kaya , Ozgor Faruk , Gurbuz Zafer Gokhan
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Currently, it is unclear how the mesh tension should be adjusted on the transobturator tape surgery (TOT) for improving continence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of per-operative cough stress test on TOT. Materials and methods: Between March 2007 and December 2011, 206 women with SUI were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly categorized to treatment with TOT (96) or TOT with cough stress test (110). The IIQ-7 and the UDI-6 were used to identify satisfaction level. At the end of 1st year, two groups were compared patient characteristics, operation time, duration of hospital stay, cure and complication rates. Results: The cure rate was 84.37% 81/96) versus 83.63% (92/110) in TOT and TOT with cough test groups, respectively. Postoperatively ten patient (10/110, 9.09%) suffered voiding difficulties (> 250 ml residual urine) in TOT with cough stress test group. Five patients were discharged with transurethral catheter, whereas, in traditional TOT group, two patients (2/96, 2.1%) had transient postoperative voiding difficulty and two patients were treated with repeated catheterization for 1 week (p < 0.05). Postoperative groin pain was present in 7/96 (8%) versus 24/110 (22%) in TOT and TOT with cough test groups, respectively (p < 0.05). TOT with cough stress test group had an higher rate of complications like, retention of urine, necessitating to cut the tape, mesh erosion and pain in groin or leg. No patient had resistant voiding difficulty or prolonged urinary retention (> 1 week) in traditional TOT group. Conclusions: We believe that per-operative cough stress test leads to overtreatment of stress urinary incontinence when the complication rates were considered.
Renal access in PNL under sonographic guidance: Do we really need to insert an open end ureteral catheter in dilated renal systems? A prospective randomized study
Authors: Eryildirim Bilal , Tuncer Murat , Camur Emre , Ustun Fatih , Tarhan Fatih , Sarica Kemal
Published: October 2017

Purpose: To evaluate the true necessity of open end ureteral catheter insertion in patients with moderate to severe pelvicalyceal system dilation treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) under sonographic guidance. Patients and methods: 50 cases treated with PNL under sonographic guidance in prone position for solitary obstructing renal stones were evaluated. Patients were randomly divided into two groups; Group 1: Patients in whom a open end ureteral catheter was inserted prior to the procedure; Group 2: Patients receiving no catheter before PNL. In addition to the duration of the procedure as a whole and also all relevant stages as well, radiation exposure time, hospitalization period, mean nephrostomy tube duration, mean drop in Hb levels and all intra and postoperative complications have been evaluated. Results: Mean size of the stones was 308.5 ± 133.2 mm2. Mean total duration of the PNL procedure in cases with open end ureteral catheter was significantly longer than the other cases (p < 0.001). Evaluation of the outcomes of the PNL procedures revealed no statistically significant difference between two groups regarding the stone-free rates (86% vs 84%). Additionally, there was no significant difference with respect to the duration of nephrostomy tube, hospitalization period and secondary procedures needed, complication rates as well as the post-operative Hb drop levels in both groups (p = 0.6830). Conclusions: Our results indicate that the placement of an open end ureteral catheter prior to a PNL procedure performed under sonographic access may not be indicated in selected cases presenting with solitary obstructing renal pelvic and/or calyceal stones.
Oral anticoagulant therapy for older patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Bo Mario , Brunetti Enrico
Published: October 2017

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias. Its incidence and prevalence increase with age, representing a significant burden for health services in western countries. The most feared consequence of AF is cardio-embolic stroke, accounting for roughly one third of ischemic strokes in the elderly. Oral anticoagulant therapy is currently recommended for patients with AF and a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2 in men and ≥3 in women, but it is widely underused, particularly in the oldest patients who, in reason of their higher risk of stroke, might benefit more from it. Among the main reasons for anticoagulant underuse in older patients, advanced age itself, physician’s perceived high risk of age-related and fall-related bleedings, and difficulties in monitoring vitamin K antagonists-based therapies are the most frequently reported.
Whole genome sequencing for typing and characterisation of Listeria monocytogenes isolated in a rabbit meat processing plant
Authors: Palma Federica , Pasquali Frédérique , Lucchi Alex , De Cesare Alessandra , Manfreda Gerardo
Published: October 2017

Listeria monocytogenes is a food-borne pathogen able to survive and grow in different environments including food processing plants where it can persist for month or years. In the present study the discriminatory power of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)-based analysis (cgMLST) was compared to that of molecular typing methods on 34 L. monocytogenes isolates collected over one year in the same rabbit meat processing plant and belonging to three genotypes (ST14, ST121, ST224). Each genotype included isolates indistinguishable by standard molecular typing methods. The virulence potential of all isolates was assessed by Multi Virulence-Locus Sequence Typing (MVLST) and the investigation of a representative database of virulence determinant genes. The whole genome of each isolate was sequenced on a MiSeq platform. The cgMLST, MVLST, and in silico identification of virulence genes were performed using publicly available tools. Draft genomes included a number of contigs ranging from 13 to 28 and N50 ranging from 456298 to 580604. The coverage ranged from 41 to 187X. The cgMLST showed a significantly superior discriminatory power only in comparison to ribotyping, nevertheless it allows the detection of two singletons belonging to ST14 that were not observed by other molecular methods. All ST14 isolates belonged to VT107, which 7-loci concatenated sequence differs for only 4 nucleotides to VT1 (Epidemic clone III). Analysis of virulence genes showed the presence of a fulllength inlA version in all ST14 isolates and of a mutated version including a premature stop codon (PMSC) associated to attenuated virulence in all ST121 isolates.
Fourier transform infrared conformational investigation of type I collagen aged by in vitro induced dehydration and non-enzymatic glycation treatments
Authors: Bridelli Maria Grazia , Stani Chiaramaria , Bedotti Roberta
Published: October 2017

The two main ageing-inducing events in the collagenous tissues are the water loss and the formation of intermolecular crosslinks based on the reaction of collagen with matrix carbohydrates, following a mechanism known as non-enzymatic-glycation. With the aim to mimic the two deleterious processes for the protein structure, rat-tail collagen was submitted to hydration changes and allowed to interact with two sugars characterized by different reducing properties, D-glucose and D-ribose. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to investigate the conformational changes induced in the protein by the two treatments by analyzing the subsequent spectra modifications. FTIR spectra monitored: i) the amplitude and position changes of the two characteristic absorption bands OH stretching and Amide I, in dependence on the humidity level: a significant hysteresis effect in the ν(OH) band (ν~3400 cm–1) amplitude of the protein dehydrated and then rehydrated to the initial relative humidity (aw=0.92- 0.06) may be related to the enhancement of the β-sheet fraction in the protein structure as revealed by the parallel modification in the Amide I band (ν~1650 cm–1); ii) the area of the carbohydrate double band peaking at 1080 cm–1 and 1031 cm–1, associated to the accumulation of the glycation products, depending on the sugar concentration and incubation time. The association of both sugars to collagen only minimally affects the protein secondary structure as revealed by Amide I band Gaussian analysis. The whole set of results suggests hints to hypothesize a self-assembly model for collagen molecules induced by ageing.
Risk factors associated with post-stroke dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Surawan Jesada , Areemit Suchat , Tiamkao Somsak , Sirithanawuthichai Theparak , Saensak Suprawita
Published: October 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for prognostic of post-stroke dementia (PSD). A systematic review included case-control and/or cohort studies, we searched both published and unpublished literatures between 2000 to July 31, 2016. Two authors independently screened and selected research articles. If another one disagreed, the third author would be just along with his/her professionally. Moreover, Critical appraisal was measured by the quality (GRADE). Data collection was in the data extraction form. The Rev-Man 5.3 was used to estimate pooled data. The fixed-effect model will be used when the heterogeneity I2>50%. Result eight publications were pooled for measuring an association between risk factors and PSD by meta-analysis. There were 6 strongly PSD risk factors. The pooled relative ratio (RR) of atrial fibrillation was 1.68, previous stroke 1.59, myocardial infarction 1.40, hypertension 1.36, diabetes mellitus 1.25 and previous transient ischemic attack 1.25 respectively. Un-pooled data from 13 publications reported that the risk factors for dementia in stroke patients were i) demographic factors, ii) vascular risk factors, iii) stroke factors, iv) stroke complications, and v) abnormalities on brain imaging. Strongly risk factors associated with increasing PSD risk were atrial fibrillation, previous stroke, myocardial infarction, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and previous transient ischemic attack. Further studies, strongly risk factors need to investigate and develop the risk score for the prediction of dementia in stroke patients.
Ophthalmology: ozone therapy applied to dystrophic maculopathy
Authors: Grechi Giorgio
Published: October 2017

The macula, which is the noblest part of the retina, is a very small structure, containing the photoreceptors (rods and cones) responsible for visual acuity. Over the years, observations have confirmed that alterations that modify the optimal state of the eye also give rise to similar diseases in the brain: ischemias, structural circulatory alterations and neurodegeneration. As the body ages, oxidative alterations take place and they change the antioxidant systems that serves as a neurological and ocular defence. In industrialised nations, age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in patients over 55 years of age. Initially, this creates drusen (or colloid cysts) in the macular area.
Endovascular laser treatment of mixed shunt
Authors: Cavallini Alvise
Published: October 2017

In this paper we present our endovascular LASER treatment of mixed shunts. This technique is built according the CHIVA’s important principles: diastolic reflux is interrupts at its proximal origin by flush LASER obliteration while centripetal systolic reflux is preserved. In this way, the surgeon interrupts a recirculation pressure loop producing the ambulatory venous hypertension critical to the development of varicose vein symptoms. In this paper we explain how to better understand the intricate venous drainage pathophysiology of mixed shunt and the strategy to approach it using an office-based technique. With the correct strategy and the technological support it is possible to achieve a good functional and aesthetic result to prevent varicosity recurrence.
Climate change over the high-mountain versus plain areas: Effects on the land surface hydrologic budget in the Alpine area and northern Italy
Authors: Cassardo Claudio , Park Seon Ki , Galli Marco , O Sungmin
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Climate change may intensify during the second half of the current century. Changes in temperature and precipitation can exert a significant impact on the regional hydrologic cycle. Because the land surface serves as the hub of interactions among the variables constituting the energy and water cycles, evaluating the land surface processes is essential to detail the future climate. In this study, we employ a trusted Soil-Vegetation-Atmosphere Transfer scheme, called the University of Torino model of land Processes Interaction with Atmosphere (UTOPIA), in offline simulations to quantify the hydrologic components changes in the Alpine area and northern Italy, on the basis of regional future climate (FC) conditions produced by the Regional Climate Model version 3 (RegCM3) via the IPCC A2 and B2 scenarios. In FCs, the evapotranspiration generally increases, especially over the plain areas, and consequently the surface soil moisture decreases during summer, falling below the wilting point threshold for one more month compared to present climate. In the high-mountain areas, due to the earlier snow melting, the land surface becomes snowless for an additional month. The annual mean number of dry (wet) days increase remarkably (slightly) in FCs; thus increasing the risk of severe droughts, and slightly increasing the risk of floods coincidently. Our results have serious implications on human life, including agricultural production, water sustainability and general infrastructures, and can be used to plan the managements of water resources, floods, irrigation, forestry, hydropower, and many other relevant activities.
Tidal bending of ice shelves as a mechanism for large-scale temporal variations in ice flow
Authors: Rosier Sebastian H. R. , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar
Published: October 2017

Abstract. GPS measurements reveal strong modulation of horizontal ice-shelf and ice-stream flow at a variety of tidal frequencies, most notably a fortnightly (Msf) frequency not present in the vertical tides themselves. Current theories largely fail to explain the strength and prevalence of this signal over floating ice shelves. We propose that tidal bending stresses, through the nonlinear rheology of glacier ice, can have a sufficiently large impact on the effective viscosity of ice along its floating margins to give rise to significant and widespread temporal variations in the horizontal velocity of ice shelves. Using full-Stokes viscoelastic modelling, we show that inclusion of tidal bending within the model accounts for much of the observed tidal modulation of ice-shelf flow. Furthermore, our model shows that, in the absence of vertical tidal forcing, the mean flow of the ice shelf is reduced by almost 30 % for the geometry that we consider.
A Phenomenology of One Southeastern African American Church Choir
Authors: Parker Elizabeth Cassidy
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this phenomenological inquiry was to describe the essence of long-term singing experiences for participants in one Southeastern African American church choir in the United States. Specific areas of inquiry included how participants described the evolution of their singing over their long-term membership, how they articulated pivotal moments that connected singing experiences to self-growth, and what kept them singing in the same church choir. The data collection included 24 individual interviews with 18 different participants and 16 observations over a 3-month period. Participants ranged from 25 to 62 years of membership. Data sources included memos, artifacts, interview transcripts, and field notes. Using embodiment as a lens, data were reduced, horizontalized, and synthesized into a textural portrayal, structural description, and essence. Findings indicated 6 textural themes beginning with Themes 1 and 2, “growing as young people” and “building and sustaining the choir family.” Participants highlighted the importance of their directors within Theme 3, “inspiring directors with vision” and how music related to their self-growth in Theme 4, “becoming part of my music.” The final two textural themes, “contributing and ministering to others” and “loving God and gospel music” represented the strongest descriptions of participant lived experience as long-term members of the choir. The essence of participants’ lived experiences was development of the spiritual self. Implications for music education as spiritually relevant pedagogy are offered.
When Mary Went through the Hole: Constructing and Contesting Individual and Family Identity through Narrative
Authors: Tye Diane
Published: October 2017

This article explores how a brother and sister, now in their eighties, position themselves in their stories based on an episodic childhood memory. It considers the narratives as important resources for the tellers’ identifying of both self and family and explores how sometimes conflicting accounts based on childhood memories, and shaped by adult interpretations, connect and separate family members, help individuals articulate who they are, and suggest how they should move forward.
Co-Narration, Intersubjectivity, and the Listener in Family Storytelling
Authors: Borland Katherine
Published: October 2017

Storytelling in an intimate group, such as the family, underscores the intersubjective nature of the self, and co-narration illuminates the active role of audience members in oral narrative performance. By shifting my focus from analyzing a discrete text within a stream of discourse to a consideration of the dynamics of interaction in a storytelling event, I discern how a listener takes up, reshapes, and dialogizes the words of another as she moves from receptive audience member to responsive performer. At the same time, even the most monologic and complete narrative performances contain unvoiced dimensions that gesture toward meanings not given by the discourse, meanings that may or may not be recoverable for a given listener. I conclude with a plea for greater attention to the multiple and sometimes conflicting ways that tellers and listeners make sense of oral personal narratives.
Obscene Sounds: Sex, Death, and the Body On-Screen
Authors: Walsh Caitríona
Published: October 2017

Corporeality is an incipient theme in the scholarship of on-screen sound, and one with significant scope for additional investigation, coinciding with the argument that the proclivity for corporeal screen media has gathered momentum in recent years. This article examines standout instances of fleshly film sound in titles like There Will Be Blood (2007) and Under the Skin (2013) via an eros and thanatos framework, evincing film’s enduring fixation with provocative themes of sex and death. This doublet of instinctual drives is borne of classical ideas and the psychical constructs of Freud and Lacan. It dominates on-screen manifestations of the corporeal, and holds special significance when it comes to auditory aspects of the physical body on-screen. Sex-death duality is a central conceit in Under the Skin, where eroticism and mortality are artfully intermingled, and where seductive and frightening entrapment processes are elicited through foreboding percussive beats and the upward-edging motion of looped and distorted chromatic string figures. Expanding on existent research around cinema’s horror heartbeats in titles like There Will Be Blood, along with obscene sonic evocations of eros and thanatos, these investigations are intended as a viable means of framing corporeal research, constituting an appeal for visceral, multisensory spectatorship. This advocates for a move away from ocularcentrism, which staunchly prioritizes film’s opticality, toward an actively engaged and embodied mode of film viewership.
Interpreting the Estimates from the Full VECH Model with Asymmetry: The Case of US and Canadian Equity Prices
Authors: Tsuji Chikashi
Published: October 2017

This paper attempts to derive careful interpretation of the parameter estimates from one of the multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (MGARCH) models, the full vector-half (VECH) model with asymmetric effects. We also consider and interpret the parameter estimates from a case study of US and Canadian equity index returns by applying this model. More specifically, we firstly inspect the model formula and derive general interpretation of the model parameters. We consider this is particularly useful for understanding not only the full VECH model structure but also similar MGARCH models. After the general considerations, we also interpret the case results that are derived from our application of the full VECH model to US and Canadian equity index returns. We consider that these concrete illustrations are also very helpful for future related research.
Factors Affecting Disclosure Levels of Environmental Accounting Information: The Case of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen La Soa , Tran Manh Dung , Hong Nguyen Thi Xuan , Le Quoc Hoi
Published: October 2017

This research is conducted for assessing factors affecting disclosure levels of environmental accounting information of construction firms in Vietnam. Data were collected from 74 construction firms listed on Vietnam Stock Exchange for the period from 2013 to 2016. Based on quantitative research method, the disclosure levels of accounting information and factors affecting this level were scrutinized. The results indicate that the disclosure levels of environmental accounting information of construction firms tends to increase, especially in 2016. In addition, the results also point out that the level of disclosure is influenced by factors of firm size, profitability, financial leverage, number of years listed and independent audit. Through findings, some recommendations are given for improving the disclosure levels of environmental accounting information to satisfy the demand for information of the stakeholders in the context of integration.
A Psychometric Evaluation of Skill Clusters and Practices Used by Highly Effective Executive Presenters
Authors: Arize Augustine C. , Liu Scott , Nyaanga Solomon , Malindretos John
Published: October 2017

The present paper is an evaluation of those skill clusters and practices that are associated with superior ratings of executive presentation skills. It focuses on improving executive presentation skills. It explains the basics of oral presentation skills in general that apply across domains including that of business and management. Six sets practices were found to be characteristic of effective executive business presentation: the preparation, the delivery, and the questions and answers that follow the delivery. As Pappas and Hendricks (2000) and DiStanza, and Legge, 2002 found that an effective executive presentation includes the presenter's mastery and skill in technical content, organization, delivery and relating to the audience. Effective presenters have must be proficient at collecting, selecting, organizing, and illustrating their data, and have to be acutely aware of the purpose of their presentation, and the needs and interests of the audience. So, what distinguishes an executive presentation from other forms of oral communication is the context (environment), the content and the audience. The ingredients of an effective executive presentation are more or less the same as those of any other types of face-to-face presentations. Hence, although this article is focused on helping executives develop and more effectively use their oral presentation skills and practices, our framework can be of used by others who want to be effective public speakers.
A Time Series Analysis of Major Indexes Using GARCH Model with Regime Shifts
Authors: Hassan S. Aun
Published: October 2017

There has always been a great interest in learning about changes in the volatility patterns of stocks and other time series due to exogenous shocks. Researchers and investors have also been curious to study the effect of unanticipated shocks on persistence of volatility over time. This paper studies three major indexes and utilizes the Iterated Cumulative Sums of Squares (ICSS) algorithm to capture time periods of sudden changes in volatility. The findings suggest that persistence of shocks to volatility is not as high as generally perceived. Volatility persistence declines significantly when regime shifts are combined with a Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (GARCH) model. This paper provides important implications for investors and financial researchers.
Hedge Fund Return Dynamics: Long Memory and Regime Switching
Authors: Limam M. A. , Terraza V. , Terraza M.
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates the dynamics of hedge fund returns and their behavior of persistence in a unified framework through the Markov Switching ARFIMA model of Härdle and Tsay (2009). Major results based on the CSFB/Tremont hedge fund indexes monthly data during the period 1994-2012, highlight the importance of the long memory parameter magnitude i.e shocks in shaping hedge fund return dynamics and show that the hedge fund dynamics are characterized by two levels of persistence: in the first one, associated to low-volatility regime, hedge fund returns are a stationary long memory process whereas in the second one, associated to high-volatility regime, returns exhibit higher parameter of fractional integration. More precisely, in high volatility regime i.e periods of turmoil, the process tends to be non-stationary but still exhibits a mean-reverting behavior. The findings are interesting and enable us to establish a relationship between hedge fund return states and memory phenomenon.
A Proposed Investment on a University Campus
Authors: Ashry Mohammed H. S. Al
Published: October 2017

College days are probably the most memorable years of a man or woman’s life. The students’ unions’ associations and entertainment building usually houses rooms for meetings and seminars, a book store, a small grocery store, a novelty store, a number of brand name fast and regular food restaurants, an arcade for games machines, bowling, ping pong, billiards, and a large space with appropriate seating for students and guests, and large screen TV’s and a movies theater. This paper proposes a scheme to build a risk managed students association building dedicated to the satisfaction of campus’ students’ and visitors’ needs. The return on its operations is assumed to be very rewarding to entrepreneurs and small businesses alike. This paper presents a case in which a union building is budgeted, three legal businesses leasing spaces within this building. The building’s budgeted capital is financed. The space leased by the three businesses represents a small percentage of the overall structure, however, its revenue and specifically input into the building’s investment is relatively much larger, emphasizing that the union’s building’s investment is a successful venture. An element of humorous sarcasm is introduced in describing one of the union building’s leasing businesses; a provision of an entertaining flavor to escort readers’ attention.
Synthesis of 8-Trifluloromethyl-2-Thioquinazolin-(3H)-4-One Nucleosides
Authors: Break Laila M.
Published: October 2017

Synthesis of 8-trifluloromethyl-2-thioquinazolin-(1H,3H)-4-one 2. which have been ribosylated by coupling with 1-O-acetyl-2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-
Emotional Experience and Recognition across Menstrual Cycle and in Premenstrual Disorder
Authors: Ramos-Loyo Julieta , Sanz-Martin Araceli
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to determine if differences exist in mood and in the recognition of female and male emotional faces among women in different phases of the menstrual cycle, and in women who suffer from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in the premenstrual phase. Both the emotional states and the recognition of female and male emotional faces were assessed in women in each phase of the menstrual cycle: post-menstrual, ovulatory, post-ovulatory and premenstrual. Also evaluated was a group of women who presented symptoms of PMDD during the premenstrual phase. Only the women with PMDD showed significant changes in levels of unpleasant emotions and anxiety. Regardless of group, the highest accuracy was observed for recognition of happiness and disgust, followed by surprise and sadness. The lowest level of recognition was seen for fear and anger. In addition, expressions of happiness and surprise were recognized better on female faces, while fearful and angry expressions were recognized better on male faces. Finally, women in the ovulatory phase and those with PMDD showed higher accuracy when recognizing sadness on male faces. These results suggest that only women with PMDD presented important differences in their emotional experience compared to the other groups. Finally, the gender of the emotion emitter was a factor that affected the recognition of emotions, an effect that was seen to interact slightly with the menstrual cycle phase.
Entre '20 centímentros' e 'Pó de arroz': a estética fílmica como póetica de desestigmatizacão do universo transexual
Authors: Alós Anselmo Peres , Yokoyama Adriana , Lavorati Carla
Published: October 2017

Este artigo problematiza as relações de gênero no filme espanhol 20 centímetros (2005), de Ramón Salazar, e no curta-metragem brasileiro Pó de arroz (2015), de Lucas Moratelli. A partir das discussões da teoria queer e dos estudos de gênero, analisa-se como a personagem Marieta, de Salazar, e a personagem sem nome de Moratelli, contribuem para a desestigmatização da cultura transexual masculina (male-to-female).Entre 20 centímetros y Polvo de arroz: la estética fílmica como poética del término del estigma del universo transexualResumen: Este estudio analiza las relaciones de género en las películas española 20 centímetros (2005), de Ramón Salazar, y la brasileña Polvo de arroz (2015), de Lucas Moratelli. A partir de las discusiones de la teoría queer y los estudios de género, se analizará cómo la personaje Marieta, de Salazar, y la personaje sin nombre de Moratelli contribuyen a la desestigmatización de la cultura transexual (male-to-female). Palavras clave: Teoria Queer; Estudios de Género; Transexualidad; Narrativas FílmicasBetween 20 centimeters and Rice powder: the filmic aesthetics as a subversive poetics of the transexual universeAbstract: This article aims at discussing gender relations in the Spanish movie 20 centimeters (2005), by Ramón Salazar, as well as in the Brazilian movie Rice powder (2015), by Lucas Moratelli. Taking as a point of departure the discussions of Queer Theory and Gender Studies, we analyse how the character Marieta, from Salazar’s movie, and the unnamed character from Moratelli’s movie contribute to the de-stigmatization of male-to-female transexual culture.Keywords: Queer Theory; Gender Studies; Transexuality; Filmic Narratives.
Celulares, conexões e afetos: a sociabilidade e o consumo de smartphones entre jovens de comunidade popular
Authors: Tondo Romulo , Silva Sandra Rubia da
Published: October 2017

A investigação em questão reflete o consumo dos smartphones por jovens de comunidade popular de Santa Maria a partir de uma pesquisa etnográfica. A posse, os usos e as apropriações dos telefones celulares por estes sujeitos potencializa a manutenção e a construção das redes de afinidade, especialmente para a circulação de dados de caráter afetivo.Celulares, conexiones y afectos: la sociabilidad y el consumo de smartphones entre los jóvenes de comunidad popularResumen: La investigación en cuestión refleja el consumo de smartphones por jovenes de una comunidad popular Santa Maria a partir de una investigación etnográfica. Posesión, los usos y apropiaciones de los teléfonos móviles por parte de estos sujetos mejora el mantenimiento y construcción de redes de afinidad, especialmente para el movimiento de datos de carácter afectivo.Palabras clave: Consumo; Juventud; SmartphonesCell phones, connections and affects: the sociability and the consumption of smartphones between younger in popular communityAbstract: The research in question reflects the consumption of smartphones by youth from popular community an ethnographic research in Santa Maria. The possession, the uses and appropriations of mobile phones by these subjects enhances the maintenance and construction of affinity networks, especially for the movement of affective character data.Keywords: Consumption; Youth; Smartphones
A unified internal model theory to resolve the paradox of active versus passive self-motion sensation
Authors: Laurens Jean , Angelaki Dora E
Published: October 2017

Brainstem and cerebellar neurons implement an internal model to accurately estimate self-motion during externally generated (‘passive’) movements. However, these neurons show reduced responses during self-generated (‘active’) movements, indicating that predicted sensory consequences of motor commands cancel sensory signals. Remarkably, the computational processes underlying sensory prediction during active motion and their relationship to internal model computations during passive movements remain unknown. We construct a Kalman filter that incorporates motor commands into a previously established model of optimal passive self-motion estimation. The simulated sensory error and feedback signals match experimentally measured neuronal responses during active and passive head and trunk rotations and translations. We conclude that a single sensory internal model can combine motor commands with vestibular and proprioceptive signals optimally. Thus, although neurons carrying sensory prediction error or feedback signals show attenuated modulation, the sensory cues and internal model are both engaged and critically important for accurate self-motion estimation during active head movements.
A Clinicopathologic Study of Small Intestinal Perforations in Patients With Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Series of 3 Patients
Authors: Saito Shin , Nagashima Takao , Matsubara Daisuke , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Iwamoto Masahiro , Minota Seiji , Horie Hisanaga , Hosoya Yoshinori , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Sata Naohiro
Published: October 2017

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a vascular disorder of unknown etiology characterized by severe asthma, eosinophilia, and granulomatous vasculitis. It is sometimes associated with gastrointestinal lesions, although perforations are uncommon. Corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of patients with EGPA; however, they may impair tissue repair and induce fibrotic changes in the vascular intima, which can lead to vascular occlusion, ischemia, and perforation. The anti-inflammatory properties of corticosteroids may mask symptoms of gastroduodenal ulcers or other intra-abdominal conditions, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. From January 1, 2001 to December 31, 2014, 71 patients underwent surgery for small intestinal perforations. Of these, 4 operations were performed on 3 patients with EGPA who were receiving corticosteroids. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and pathologic features of these patients. All 3 patients with EGPA were men, with a mean age of 56 years. The length of resected intestine ranged from 10 to 60 cm. Histopathologic examination revealed ulcers and perforations of the small intestine associated with vasculitis, compatible with EGPA. All patients had an uneventful postoperative course. Patients with EGPA presenting with abdominal pain must be carefully evaluated for possible intestinal perforation, especially those receiving corticosteroid therapy.
Onset Timing and Slip History of the Teton Fault, Wyoming: A Multidisciplinary Reevaluation
Authors: Brown Summer J. , Thigpen J. Ryan , Spotila James A. , Krugh William C. , Tranel Lisa M. , Orme Devon A.
Published: October 2017

The dramatic relief of the Teton Range in northwestern Wyoming results from motion along the Teton normal fault. New apatite (U‐Th)/He (AHe) and fission track (AFT) ages of samples collected in the footwall yield fundamental constraints on contrasting models of Teton fault activity and consequent relative footwall uplift. Low‐elevation samples in the immediate footwall of the fault range from 12.5 to 6.5 Ma. AHe ages of samples from subvertical transects range from 57.8 to 6.5 Ma (Rendezvous), 54.0 to 6.8 Ma (Grand), and 20.5 to 7.1 Ma (Moran), with all three transects yielding an expected trend of decreasing age with decreasing elevation. AFT ages obtained from the three transects range from 55.4 to 45.7 Ma (Rendezvous), 43.2 to 13.3 Ma (Grand), and 38.0 to 11.7 Ma (Moran). Inverse thermal history modeling indicates that the onset of relatively rapid cooling, as a proxy for relative footwall uplift, initiated first in the northern part of the range (15–13 Ma) and then migrated south as fault displacement continued (7 Ma to present at Rendezvous). Thus, this work suggests that although the Teton fault likely initiated due to Basin and Range extension, this structure remains active. Normal fault displacement models also suggest a minimum of ~6 km displacement for footwall uplift of ~2 km. If evaluated in the context of established normal fault length‐displacement relationships, this yields a length of ~180 km, substantially longer than current estimates of Teton fault length and putting the northern end of the fault well into, and potentially beyond, the bounds of Yellowstone National Park.
The Spatial Structure of the 128 ka Antarctic Sea Ice Minimum
Authors: Holloway Max D. , Sime Louise C. , Allen Claire S. , Hillenbrand Claus‐Dieter , Bunch Pete , Wolff Eric , Valdes Paul J.
Published: October 2017

We compare multi‐ice core data with δ18O model output for the early last interglacial Antarctic sea ice minimum. The spatial pattern of δ18O across Antarctica is sensitive to the spatial pattern of sea ice retreat. Local sea ice retreat increases the proportion of winter precipitation, depleting δ18O at ice core sites. However, retreat also enriches δ18O because of the reduced source‐to‐site distance for atmospheric vapor. The joint overall effect is for δ18O to increase as sea ice is reduced. Our data‐model comparison indicates a winter sea ice retreat of 67, 59, and 43% relative to preindustrial in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific sectors of the Southern Ocean. A compilation of Southern Ocean sea ice proxy data provides weak support for this reconstruction. However, most published marine core sites are located too far north of the 128,000 years B.P. sea ice edge, preventing independent corroboration for this sea ice reconstruction.
Investigating Dynamic Triggering of Seismicity by Regional Earthquakes: The Case of the Corinth Rift (Greece)
Authors: De Barros Louis , Deschamps Anne , Sladen Anthony , Lyon‐Caen Hélène , Voulgaris Nicholas
Published: October 2017

Dynamic triggering has been commonly observed after large teleseismic events, but the physics behind it is still under debate. To broaden observations, we here focus on the dynamic triggering by regional earthquakes, that is, by events with magnitude lower than 6.2 at distances smaller than 600 km. The western part of the Corinth Rift (Greece) is characterized by intense seismic swarms and is therefore adapted to study such responses. The microseismicity rates before and after the transient perturbations are high enough to analyze 30 regional earthquakes out of the 59 occurring in 2013. More than 40% of those 30 events, including earthquakes with magnitude as small as 4.5, are associated with a significant seismicity rate increase. The triggerability primarily depends on the amplitude of the seismic waves. However, triggering is mainly observed when the seismic perturbations are orthogonal to the faults, which suggests that fluid pressurization is likely involved.
Determining Coastal Mean Dynamic Topography by Geodetic Methods
Authors: Huang Jianliang
Published: October 2017

In geodesy, coastal mean dynamic topography (MDT) was traditionally determined by spirit leveling technique. Advances in navigation satellite positioning (e.g., GPS) and geoid determination enable space‐based leveling with an accuracy of about 3 cm at tide gauges. Recent CryoSat‐2, a satellite altimetry mission with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and SAR interferometric measurements, extends the space‐based leveling to the coastal ocean with the same accuracy. However, barriers remain in applying the two space‐based geodetic methods for MDT determination over the coastal ocean because current geoid modeling focuses primarily on land as a substitute to spirit leveling to realize the vertical datum.
Mobility Effect on Poroelastic Seismic Signatures in Partially Saturated Rocks With Applications in Time‐Lapse Monitoring of a Heavy Oil Reservoir
Authors: Zhao Luanxiao , Yuan Hemin , Yang Jingkang , Han De‐hua , Geng Jianhua , Zhou Rui , Li Hui , Yao Qiuliang
Published: October 2017

Conventional seismic analysis in partially saturated rocks normally lays emphasis on estimating pore fluid content and saturation, typically ignoring the effect of mobility, which decides the ability of fluids moving in the porous rocks. Deformation resulting from a seismic wave in heterogeneous partially saturated media can cause pore fluid pressure relaxation at mesoscopic scale, thereby making the fluid mobility inherently associated with poroelastic reflectivity. For two typical gas‐brine reservoir models, with the given rock and fluid properties, the numerical analysis suggests that variations of patchy fluid saturation, fluid compressibility contrast, and acoustic stiffness of rock frame collectively affect the seismic reflection dependence on mobility. In particular, the realistic compressibility contrast of fluid patches in shallow and deep reservoir environments plays an important role in determining the reflection sensitivity to mobility. We also use a time‐lapse seismic data set from a Steam‐Assisted Gravity Drainage producing heavy oil reservoir to demonstrate that mobility change coupled with patchy saturation possibly leads to seismic spectral energy shifting from the baseline to monitor line. Our workflow starts from performing seismic spectral analysis on the targeted reflectivity interface. Then, on the basis of mesoscopic fluid pressure diffusion between patches of steam and heavy oil, poroelastic reflectivity modeling is conducted to understand the shift of the central frequency toward low frequencies after the steam injection. The presented results open the possibility of monitoring mobility change of a partially saturated geological formation from dissipation‐related seismic attributes.
Characteristics of Upward Lightning on the Beijing 325 m Meteorology Tower and Corresponding Thunderstorm Conditions
Authors: Yuan Shanfeng , Jiang Rubin , Qie Xiushu , Wang Dongfang , Sun Zhuling , Liu Mingyuan
Published: October 2017

Comprehensive observation on lightning striking the 325 m meteorology tower has been conducted in Beijing, China, during the summer season from 2012 to 2016. For the 20 tower flashes captured by high‐speed video camera, 19 (95%) cases were initiated from the tower (termed as upward lightning (UL)), with duration of 42–844 ms. Most ULs (84.2%, 16/19) were triggered by nearby lightning, of which positive cloud‐to‐ground flashes (+CGs) account for 87.5% (14/16). Analysis on the characteristics of the causal or triggering lightning flashes suggests that the approaching of negative leader process through in‐cloud horizontal channel is the vital condition for the initiation of upward leader. Generally, the UL initiation follows the nearby discharges, while for a special case in our data set, the nearby positive return stroke was found to occur after the establishment of an upward channel from the tower. It is worth noting that this +CG led to a significant enhancement of the tower‐initiating leader, with eight subsequent return strokes and two M component processes occurring to the tower thereafter. The radar echo of the corresponding thunderstorm indicates that the other‐triggered UL (OTUL) tended to occur at the dissipation stage of the thunderstorm with relatively low cloud top height and weak radar echo, while the self‐initiating UL (SIUL) was more likely to occur when the thunderstorm was in the mature stage and the tower was underneath the stratiform clouds behind the convective region. The meteorology condition for SIUL involved lower ambient temperature and higher wind speed, as compared to the OTUL.
Landslide Frequency and Failure Mechanisms at NE Gela Basin (Strait of Sicily)
Authors: Kuhlmann J. , Asioli A. , Trincardi F. , Klügel A. , Huhn K.
Published: October 2017

Despite intense research by both academia and industry, the parameters controlling slope stability at continental margins are often speculated upon. Lack of core recovery and age control on failed sediments prevent the assessment of failure timing/frequency and the role of prefailure architecture as shaped by paleoenvironmental changes. This study uses an integrated chronological framework from two boreholes and complementary ultrahigh‐resolution acoustic profiling in order to assess (1) the frequency of submarine landsliding at the continental margin of NE Gela Basin and (2) the associated mechanisms of failure. Accurate age control was achieved through absolute radiocarbon dating and indirect dating relying on isotope stratigraphic and micropaleontological reconstructions. A total of nine major slope failure events have been recognized that occurred within the last 87 kyr (~10 kyr return frequency), though there is evidence for additional syndepositional, small‐scaled transport processes of lower volume. Preferential failure involves translational movement of mudflows along subhorizontal surfaces that are induced by sedimentological changes relating to prefailure stratal architecture. Along with sequence‐stratigraphic boundaries reflecting paleoenvironmental fluctuations, recovered core material suggests that intercalated volcaniclastic layers are key to the basal confinement and lateral movement of these events in the study area. Another major predisposing factor is given by rapid loading of fine‐grained homogenous strata and successive generation of excess pore pressure, as expressed by several fluid escape structures. Recurrent failure, however, requires repeated generation of favorable conditions, and seismic activity, though low if compared to many other Mediterranean settings, is shown to represent a legitimate trigger mechanism.
Can Seismic Observations of Bed Conditions on Ice Streams Help Constrain Parameters in Ice Flow Models?
Authors: Kyrke‐Smith Teresa M. , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar , Farrell Patrick E.
Published: October 2017

We investigate correlations between seismically derived estimates of basal acoustic impedance and basal slipperiness values obtained from a surface‐to‐bed inversion using a Stokes ice flow model. Using high‐resolution measurements along several seismic profiles on Pine Island Glacier (PIG), we find no significant correlation at kilometer scale between acoustic impedance and either retrieved basal slipperiness or basal drag. However, there is a stronger correlation when comparing average values along the individual profiles. We hypothesize that the correlation appears at the length scales over which basal variations are important to large‐scale ice sheet flow. Although the seismic technique is sensitive to the material properties of the bed, at present there is no clear way of incorporating high‐resolution seismic measurements of bed properties on ice streams into ice flow models. We conclude that more theoretical work needs to be done before constraints on mechanical conditions at the ice‐bed interface from acoustic impedance measurements can be of direct use to ice sheet models.