bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully Automated Lumen Segmentation Method for Intracoronary Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Pociask Elżbieta , Malinowski Krzysztof Piotr , Ślęzak Magdalena , Jaworek-Korjakowska Joanna , Wojakowski Wojciech , Roleder Tomasz
Published: December 2018

Background. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an innovative imaging technique that generates high-resolution intracoronary images. In the last few years, the need for more precise analysis regarding coronary artery disease to achieve optimal treatment has made intravascular imaging an area of primary importance in interventional cardiology. One of the main challenges in OCT image analysis is the accurate detection of lumen which is significant for the further prognosis. Method. In this research, we present a new approach to the segmentation of lumen in OCT images. The proposed work is focused on designing an efficient automatic algorithm containing the following steps: preprocessing (artifacts removal: speckle noise, circular rings, and guide wire), conversion between polar and Cartesian coordinates, and segmentation algorithm. Results. The implemented method was tasted on 667 OCT frames. The lumen border was extracted with a high correlation compared to the ground truth: 0.97 ICC (0.97–0.98). Conclusions. Proposed algorithm allows for fully automated lumen segmentation on optical coherence tomography images. This tool may be applied to automated quantitative lumen analysis.
Recent Advances in HBV Reactivation Research
Authors: Guo Lixia , Wang Dan , Ouyang Xiping , Tang Ni , Chen Xuemei , Zhang Yuhong , Zhu Hongquan , Li Xiaosong
Published: December 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important public health problem that poses a serious threat to human health. HBV reactivation generally occurs in overt or occult HBV infection patients who suffered DDAs, chemotherapy, or immunosuppressive therapy, especially when some solid tumors and leukemia patients are using hormones such as prednisolone and imatinib. The approximate incidence of HBV reactivation ranged from about 10% to 40%. Scientists often explore the molecular mechanisms from both the virus and the host. But some studies have reported that some drugs (cisplatin, rituximab, imatinib, and glucocorticoid) could induce HBV reactivation directly. However, the specific molecular mechanisms were unclear. With the emergence of new antiviral drugs and molecular targeted drugs, the risk of HBV reactivation will increase significantly. Therefore this review was expected to be used to provide recommendations for future research in HBV reactivation.
Evaluation and Application of Urban Traffic Signal Optimizing Control Strategy Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Wang Yizhe , Yang Xiaoguang , Liu Yangdong , Liang Hailun
Published: December 2018

Reinforcement learning method has a self-learning ability in complex multidimensional space because it does not need accurate mathematical model and due to the low requirement for prior knowledge of the environment. The single intersection, arterial lines, and regional road network of a group of multiple intersections are taken as the research object on the paper. Based on the three key parameters of cycle, arterial coordination offset, and green split, a set of hierarchical control algorithms based on reinforcement learning is constructed to optimize and improve the current signal timing scheme. However, the traffic signal optimization strategy based on reinforcement learning is suitable for complex traffic environments (high flows and multiple intersections), and the effects of which are better than the current optimization methods in the conditions of high flows in single intersections, arteries, and regional multi-intersection. In a word, the problem of insufficient traffic signal control capability is studied, and the hierarchical control algorithm based on reinforcement learning is applied to traffic signal control, so as to provide new ideas and methods for traffic signal control theory.
Cyclic Behaviour of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Sandwich Reinforced Concrete Walls
Authors: Wibowo Ari , Wijatmiko Indradi , Nainggolan Christin R.
Published: December 2018

Precast concrete walls become increasingly utilized due to the rapid needs of inexpensive fabricated house especially as traditional construction cost continues to climb, and also, particularly at damaged area due to natural disasters when the requirement of a lot of fast‐constructed and cost‐efficient houses are paramount. However, the performance of precast walls under lateral load such as earthquake or strong wind is still not comprehensively understood due to various types of reinforcements and connections. Additionally, the massive and solid wall elements also enlarge the building total weight and hence increase the impact of earthquake significantly. Therefore, the precast polystyrene‐reinforced concrete walls which offer light weight and easy installment became the focus of this investigation. The laboratory test on two reinforced concrete wall specimens using EPS (expanded polystyrene) panel and wire mesh reinforcement has been conducted. Quasi‐static load in the form of displacement controlled cyclic tests were undertaken until reaching peak load. At each discrete loading step, lateral load‐deflection behaviour, crack propagation, and collapse mechanism were measured which then were compared with theoretical analysis. The findings showed that precast polystyrene‐reinforced concrete walls gave considerable seismic performance for the low‐to‐moderate seismic region reaching up to 1% drift at 20% drop of peak load. However, it might not be sufficient for high seismic regions, at which double‐panel wall type can be more suitable.
Value of Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and Albuminuria in Predicting Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes without Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Weerarathna Thilak , Liyanage Gayani , Herath Meththananda , Weerarathna Miyuru , Amarasinghe Isuru
Published: December 2018

Introduction. Onset of nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) increases the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Association of the parameters of diabetic nephropathy such as albuminuria and estimated Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) with predicted CVD risk has not been studied in Sri Lankan patients with T2DM. Methods. In a cross-sectional study of patients who underwent single visit screening at a diabetes center in Sri Lanka, we obtained demographic and biochemical data. Those with urine albumin excretion over 30 mg/g creatinine were considered as having albuminuria, and eGFR was calculated using modified diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula. Ten-year coronary heart disease risk (CHDR) in all patients was calculated using United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine, and those with CHDR > 10% were considered as having high risk. Spearman correlation was used to study the association between eGFR and CHDR, and logistic regression analysis was carried out to study the association of albuminuria and eGFR with high (>10%) CHDR. Results. Of the patients with diabetes studied (n=2434), 64% (1563) were males. Mean (SD) age and duration of diabetes were 52 (11) and 9 (3) years, respectively. Normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria, and macroalbuminuria were observed in 16.4%, 14.8%, and 68.7% of patients, respectively. Three hundred ninety-four (16.2%) patients had eGFR < 60 ml/min. Moderate correlation was observed between eGFR and predicted CHDR [r = (-0.4), P<0.01] and between eGFR and fatal CHDR (FCHDR) [r = (-0.5), P<0.01]. Independent t-test showed that patients with eGFR < 60 ml/min were older and had longer diabetes duration and lesser BMI compared to those who had eGFR > 60 ml/min (P < 0.01). On logistic regression, nephropathy according to eGFR became a strong predictor for high CHDR (OR; 3.497, 95% CI 2.08 to 5.87), and nephropathy according to albuminuria and both albuminuria and eGFR was not significant predictor of CHDR. Conclusions. Predicted CHDR shows a moderate and significant association with eGFR in patients with T2DM without symptomatic CVD. eGFR is a stronger predictor than albuminuria in predicting high CHDR in patients with T2DM. Intensification of CVD prevention measures should be done more confidently among patients with T2DM and reduced eGFR than in those with albuminuria alone.
Energy Evolution Behavior and Mesodamage Mechanism of Crumb Rubber Concrete
Authors: Di Shengtong , Jia Chao , Qiao Weiguo , Li Kang , Tong Kai
Published: December 2018

The energy evolution behaviour and mesodamage mechanism of CRC (crumb rubber concrete) were investigated by laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. The mesoscopic physical and mechanical parameters of CRC (crumb rubber concrete) materials were analyzed and determined by the discrete element method and trial‐and‐error method, and the mechanism and evolution of microcracks propagation during CRC failure were studied based on the parallel‐bond model. The relationship among dissipation energy, damage threshold, and rubber content during CRC damage was studied by adopting the method of microscopic energy tracking. The energy release ratio was proposed to analyze the degree of “brittleness” of CRC after reaching its peak strength. The essential mechanism of different failure characteristics of CRC and NC (normal concrete) was analyzed and discussed by referring to their correlation between the microenergy evolution rule and the constitutive curve. The results show that (1) the calibrated mesoscopic physical and mechanical parameters can better reflect the mechanical characteristics of CRC materials, (2) there is a strong correlation between the mesoscopic damage threshold of CRC with different rubber contents and the proportion of dissipation energy at the peak strength, and the damage threshold of the CRC with 25% rubber mass is the largest, (3) the relationship between elastic strain energy release ratio of CRC and rubber particle contents can be fitted by the negative exponential function, and (4) the essential reasons for the different destruction characteristics of CRC and NC is that the addition of rubber particles makes more external input energy to be converted into dissipative energy required for microcracks propagation and sliding friction between particles and released step by step.
As Duas Definições de Prazer na Ética Nicomaqueia de Aristóteles
Authors: Aggio Juliana Ortegosa
Published: December 2018

O objetivo do texto é mostrar como Aristóteles, ao formular a primeira definição de prazer em franca contraposição à definição de Platão, coloca para si uma armadilha conceitual a ser superada com a formulação da segunda definição de prazer. A primeira definição de prazer - atividade desimpedida do estado natural e não um processo restaurador de um estado débil – arma a seguinte armadilha: se a eudaimonia também é uma atividade desimpedia do estado natural, o que impediria a inteira identificação desta com o prazer? Ocorre que Aristóteles não defende uma posição hedonista radical, apesar de ter argumentado dialeticamente que o prazer seria, de certo modo, o bem supremo. Posto o problema, mostraremos como a segunda definição de prazer - atividade acompanhante de outra atividade – é necessária para evitar um possível hedonismo radical suscitado pela primeira definição. Em sendo assim, ficará evidente o vínculo lógico entre os Tratados, contrariando a interpretação da maioria dos comentadores
O projeto de vida ética no escrito A Constituição da Alemanha do jovem Hegel
Authors: Souza Roberta Bandeira de
Published: December 2018

Este artigo analisa algumas passagens do escrito A Constituição da Alemanha que revelam o conceito embrionário do jovem Hegel de vida ética. Inicialmente, apresenta a tensão entre a antiga Constituição imperial e a sociedade moderna que impedia a unificação do povo alemão. Em seguida, indica os elementos da antiga Constituição que precisavam ser revitalizados na Alemanha do século XIX para existir a conciliação dos direitos privados e públicos. Por fim, explicita o debate travado pelo jovem Hegel com os jusnaturalistas e os positivistas, que tinha como propósito apreender o sentido especulativo da vida ética absoluta.
Crise de legitimação? Sobre as contradições políticas do capitalismo financeirizado
Authors: Fraser Nancy , Sousa Filho José Ivan Rodrigues de
Published: December 2018

Democracia de fachada. Pós-democracia. Democracia moribunda. Desdemocratização. Ao multiplicarem tais termos, muitos observadores introduzem a hipótese de que estamos passando por uma “crise da democracia”. Mas o que exatamente está em crise aqui? Defendo que as atuais aperturas da democracia são melhor compreendidas como expressões, sob condições contemporâneas historicamente específicas, de uma tendência geral à crise política que é intrínseca às sociedades capitalistas. Desenvolvo essa tese em três passos. Primeiro, proponho uma explicação geral da “contradição política do capitalismo” enquanto tal, sem referência a qualquer forma histórica particular. Em seguida, reconstruo Problemas de Legitimação no Capitalismo Tardio, livro de Jürgen Habermas publicado em 1973, como uma explicação da forma que essa contradição política assumiu numa fase específica da sociedade capitalista, a saber, o capitalismo estatalmente administrado do período subsequente à Segunda Guerra Mundial. Por último, esboço uma explicação dos problemas atuais da democracia como expressões da contradição política do capitalismo em sua presente fase, a financeirizada.

[Texto original: Fraser, N. (2015). Legitimation crisis? On the political contradictions of financialized capitalism. Critical Historical Studies, 2(2), pp.157-189. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1086/683054. Tradução de José Ivan Rodrigues de Sousa Filho (Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, CAPES), com a expressa autorização da autora (titular dos direitos autorais) e com o benefício da cuidadosa revisão de um par anônimo de pareceristas. (N. T.)]
Entre os dois lados do Reno: uma entrevista com Peter Dews
Authors: Dews Peter , Cavaignac Talita , Amorim Thomas
Published: December 2018

Trata-se de entrevista realizada com o professor Peter Dews, da Universidade de Essex. A entrevista trata de temas diversos, relativos ao âmbito do pós-estruturalismo, teoria crítica e idealismo alemão.
Interrogating Western Modernity: Postcolonial Reflections on Occidental Claims and Action
Authors: Kerner Ina
Published: December 2018

This paper deals with the way in which European modernity, and the West more generally, are reflected upon in the field of post- and decolonial theories, which generally question those representations of the European/Western tradition of thought and politics that only focus on their positive aspects, but differ greatly with regard to the way in which they frame and formulate their critique of this tradition. I discuss three major positions in this field. They are characterized by the rejection of Western modernity (Walter Mignolo), by a deconstruction of core text and principles of the European Enlightenment (Gayatri Spivak), and by attempts at a renewal and hence a radicalization of some of its core normative claims, particularly humanism (Achille Mbembe).
A República Mundial das Letras, de Pascale Casanova, lida no Brasil e na França: nacionalidade e terminologia
Authors: Machado Lohanna
Published: December 2018

Nesse artigo estudei a recepção do livro A República Mundial das Letras, de Pascale Casanova, expressa em artigos publicados em francês e em português desde seu lançamento (1999) até o ano da realização da pesquisa, em 2017. Procurava com isso investigar, dada a natureza da obra que se pretende uma “arma crítica para os excêntricos”, quais as diferenças e semelhanças na sua leitura crítica no Brasil, cuja literatura é considerada periférica, e na França, cuja Paris é tradicionalmente considerada capital das artes. A pesquisa confirma a hipótese de que essa obra de Casanova é melhor apreciada pelas “pequenas literaturas”. Concluo que o grupo brasileiro junto à parcela periférica do grupo francófono se apropria dessa arma crítica para pensar sua posição marginal, enquanto o grupo francês originário da França se volta, de maneira geral, a questões de ordem terminológica.
Infância, de Graciliano Ramos: um esforço de memória, um esforço de ficção
Authors: Andrade Wesley Moreira de
Published: December 2018

Infância, de Graciliano Ramos, publicado em 1945, pode ser considerada a primeira obra assumidamente autobiográfica deste escritor, na qual ele revisita o período de sua meninice até o início da adolescência. Livro de memórias, Infância destaca-se justamente pelo tratamento ficcional dado aos personagens e episódios reais ali narrados. O presente artigo pretende, a partir do referencial teórico de Philippe Lejeune e Paul de Man, dois nomes que versaram sobre o gênero autobiográfico, e também das análises feitas por pesquisadores brasileiros sobre o livro Infância, descrever alguns dos procedimentos utilizados pelo escritor alagoano para singularizar a experiência de leitura que seu trabalho memorialístico propicia no leitor o qual está diante das situações difíceis vividas pelo protagonista quando ele era criança.
Entre a poesia e a prosa: Drummond e a Revolução de 30
Authors: Provinzano Gabriel
Published: December 2018

O artigo procura desenvolver a hipótese de que o poema "Outubro 1930", de Carlos Drummond de Andrade, ocupa uma posição estratégica dentro da sua obra, porque nele o individualismo característico do seu primeiro livro, Alguma poesia, começa a se revelar insuficiente e problemático. Através da análise do poema, sugere-se que na mescla de registros que o caracteriza está cifrada simultaneamente uma crise do poeta com o seu lirismo e uma tentativa tímida de abrir novos caminhos poéticos. Para reforçar a hipótese, resgata-se um trecho de uma carta de Drummond a Mário de Andrade e um trecho de uma crônica deste último para mostrar como o poeta mineiro estava àquela altura tomando consciência da precariedade da sua posição e da necessidade de mudança. Indiretamente, o objetivo do artigo é situar o processo de tomada de consciência de Drummond dentro da intensa movimentação ideológica que agitou nossa intelectualidade na passagem dos anos 20 para os anos 30, discutindo sua especificidade.
Roberto Arlt, Lima Barreto e a modernidade periférica
Authors: Bisterço Vinícius da Cunha
Published: December 2018

Esse artigo elabora uma interpretação comparada de dois autores, Roberto Arlt e Lima Barreto. A comparação será estabelecida a partir da maneira com que os dois autores enxergam a experiência da cidade moderna, e as estratégias literárias empregadas pelos autores em seus textos para dar forma a um ponto de vista particular sobre o processo histórico no qual se inseriam.
Dois Poemas de Hu Xudong
Authors: Lotufo Marcelo , Zhou Inez
Published: December 2018

Dois poeas do poeta chinês Hu Xudong.
Olhares sobre a literatura brasileira no exterior
Authors: Nunes Filho Wanderley Corino , Machado Lohanna
Published: December 2018

Às vésperas de completar 30 anos da sua estreia como ficcionista, Milton Hatoum gentilmente nos concedeu a entrevista a respeito da recepção de sua obra no exterior e também da sua visão sobre a posição ocupada pela literatura brasileira em âmbito internacional. A decisão em convidar Hatoum se justifica não só pelo fato de se tratar de um dos escritores brasileiros contemporâneos mais traduzidos, mas também por conta de seu ofício como tradutor, do qual destacamos a tradução de Representações do intelectual, de Edward Saïd.
Entrevista com Piers Armstrong
Authors: Machado Lohanna
Published: December 2018

Piers Armstrong é brasilianista e professor de línguas modernas na California State University (LA). É autor de Third world literary fortunes: Brazilian Culture and its International Reception (1999) que versa sobre a assimetria entre a recepção anglófona das literaturas da américa hispânica e a brasileira, com prejuízo desta.
Estudos de literatura brasileira em Portugal: uma entrevista com Abel Barros Baptista
Authors: Cunha Neto Umberto
Published: December 2018

Nesta entrevista gentilmente cedida por Abel Barros para a Opiniães, podemos situar ainda que brevemente os estudos de literatura brasileira em Portugal e algum posicionamento desses estudos em relação à crítica literária brasileira.
A literatura brasileira pede licença: entramos na literatura mundial?
Authors: Machado Lohanna , Cunha Neto Umberto , Nunes Filho Wanderley Corino
Published: December 2018

Causou entusiasmo a enxurrada de eventos celebrando a literatura brasileira a nível internacional nesse início de século. Para citar alguns, houve a atuação do projeto Conexões, os editais de bolsas da Biblioteca Nacional, especialmente o de incentivo à tradução, a Machado de Assis Magazine, a reformulação do programa de Leitorado, a abertura de novos Centros Culturais Brasileiros, a atuação de redes de brasilianistas como a REBRAC, BRASA, ABRE, incontáveis eventos acadêmicos tematizando a cultura brasileira, as participações em grandes feiras como país homenageado, caso de Frankfurt, Salão do Livro de Paris, Feira do livro de Guadalajara, além da Europalia e do Ano do Brasil na França e Portugal. Trata-se de um grande esforço conjunto mobilizando diversos agentes e instituições e que se justifica na crença de que através dessas operações estaríamos conquistando espaço numa República Mundial das Letras que até então não nos reconhecia, pedindo licença para entrar.
Experiência com a música, bem-estar e saúde mental: que relações?
Authors: Marques Alexandra , Fonte Carla
Published: December 2018

A literatura tem sublinhado a importância de se estudar a relação entre a experiência com a música e a saúde mental. Neste sentido apresenta-se um estudo cujo objetivo é de caraterizar como os indivíduos experienciam a música e sua relação com o bem-estar e saúde mental. A amostra é constituída por 255 adultos, com idades compreendidas entre os 18 e 67 anos. Foram utilizados para a recolha de dados o Questionário da Experiência com Música, Escala Continuum de Saúde Mental e a Escala de Ansiedade, Depressão e Stress. Os resultados indicam associações entre algumas dimensões da experiência com a música, com os níveis de bem-estar, mas também com os níveis de ansiedade, stress e depressão, com algumas diferenças de acordo com a relação que os participantes têm com a música. Estes resultados sugerem que a música pode ter um impacto positivo ou negativo na saúde mental e bem-estar dos indivíduos.
Ernesto Nazareth: a projeção dos grupos de choro ao piano
Authors: Marques André Repizo
Published: December 2018

O artigo tem como objetivo analisar a música de Ernesto Nazareth sob a ótica do choro. Ao observar elementos musicais comuns à obra de Ernesto Nazareth e aos grupos de choro, notamos a relação de troca e desenvolvimento mútuo entre ambos. Por meio desses elementos musicais (harmonia; melodia; condução do baixo e motivos rítmicos), utilizando ferramentas de análise musical e revisão bibliográfica acerca da obra de Nazareth, buscamos encontrar direções para guiar a fruição e construção de uma performance.
A SOLIDÃO EM DEIXEI ELE LÁ E VIM E EM NADA A DIZER, DE ELVIRA VIGNA
Authors: Fascina Diego Luiz Miiller , Coqueiro Wilma Dos Santos , Lasta Gabriela
Published: December 2018

O objetivo deste trabalho é problematizar duas identidades: a de Shirley Marlone, a prostituta transexual, protagonista de Deixei ele lá e vim (2006), bem como a da esposa traída, que não é nomeada, em Nada a dizer (2010), romances de Elvira Vigna. Intenciona-se, ainda, discutir a presença da solidão no cerne da personalidade dessas personagens, que funciona como sintoma de uma identidade porosa e liquefeita. Essa análise tem como aporte teórico os estudos de Zygmunt Bauman (2001, 2003), Stuart Hall (1992), Jair Ferreira dos Santos (2000) e Paolo Cugine (2008), no que tange a identidade na pós-modernidade e o de Marc Augé (1994), que aborda o não pertencimento e o deslocamento dos sujeitos nos mais diversos espaços.
CONTO-REPORTAGEM: JORNALISMO, LITERATURA E INDÚSTRIA CULTURAL
Authors: Lopes Leandro De Oliveira
Published: December 2018

“Um dia no cais”, de João Antônio, foi publicado na revista Realidade sob a categorização de “conto-reportagem”. Tal designação nos faz supor a mistura, em texto, de dois diferentes gêneros textuais oriundos da literatura e do jornalismo: o conto e a reportagem. Pois a despeito de sua relação (ou não relação) com os gêneros canônicos aos quais faz referência, neste estudo abordamos a ligação existente entre o termo “conto-reportagem”, até então inédito no país, a revista Realidade – com suas características próprias – e a atuação e desenvolvimento de uma ainda incipiente indústria cultural brasileira.
O PRENÚNCIO DO ESCRITOR: UMA ANÁLISE DO TEXTO JORNALÍSTICO DE GABRIEL GARCÍA MÁRQUEZ
Authors: Friderichs Bibiana De Paula , Rockenbach Fábio Luis
Published: December 2018

O presente trabalho busca identificar características do texto informativo que surgem na produção jornalística de Gabriel García Márquez, para compreender de que forma o autor se adapta às normas de padronização instituídas no jornalismo moderno, ou as refuta, em um período de sua vida que pode ser reconhecido como importante para sua formação como futuro escritor. O estudo bibliográfico focaliza a sua coletânea jornalística e demonstra que, em seus primeiros anos de profissão, García Márquez rejeitou a excessiva padronização textual, adotando características que marcariam seu texto como representante da vertente do novo jornalismo latino-americano.
The identification of Takin Budorcas taxicolor (Mammalia: Bovidae) through dorsal guard hair
Authors: Kamalakannan Manokaran
Published: December 2018

The dorsal guard hairs of Takin Budorcas taxicolor was examined using the optical light and scanning electron microscopes for species identification. It is found that the dorsal guard hair of B. taxicolor is possessed a completely unique microscopic characteristic especially the medullary character-uniserial ladder structure, which differs from other species of mammals. The ‘irregular wave’ of scale patterns and ‘rippled’ scale margins of cuticular, and the ‘circular’ shape of a transverse section of hair also determines the species identity of B. taxicolor, because these characteristics are infrequent in other species of mammals. The micro-photographs and characters of hairs are presented here can be used in the forensic science, as an appropriate reference for species identification of B. taxicolor.
Odonata (Insecta) diversity of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary and its adjoining areas, Odisha, eastern India
Authors: Debata Subrat , Swain Kedar Kumar
Published: December 2018

A study was carried out to assess the Odonata fauna of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, eastern India from November 2012 to October 2013.  During the study a total of 54 species of odonates including 37 species of dragonflies (Anisoptera) and 17 species of damselflies (Zygoptera) were recorded.  Among the dragonflies, the family Libellulidae was well represented with 30 species whereas among the damselflies, Coenagrionidae was well represented with seven species.  Overall, the odonate fauna of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary accounted for 49.09% of the odonate species known from Odisha and 10.73% of India.  Therefore, further long-term studies on these lesser-known insect fauna in Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary will be useful in understanding their status over time.
A report on the possible interbreeding between Grizzled Giant Squirrel Ratufa macroura and Indian Giant Squirrel Ratufa indica from Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: Thomas Kiran , Vinodkumar D. K. , John Jomals Mathews , Shaji M. , Nammer P. O.
Published: December 2018

We report a possible instance of hybridization between the Ratufa indica and Ratufa macroura from Western Ghats. The details on the coat of the hybrid individuals, location map where the hybrids where sighted and the conservation challenges have been discussed in the paper.
An updated list of Odonata of southwestern Bangladesh
Authors: Tuhin M. Sajjad Hossain , Khan M. Kawsar
Published: December 2018

An odonate survey was conducted throughout the southwestern region of Bangladesh, concentrating on eight districts and the Sundarban, from August 2014 to August 2016.  A total of 50 species under 30 genera belonging to six families was recorded during the study period.  Among these, 31 species belonged to Anisoptera and 19 to Zygoptera suborders.  Libellulidae and Coenagrionidae were the most dominant anisopteran and zygopteran families with 28 and 17 species, respectively.  One Zygoptera species Mortonagrion varalli was newly added to the odonate fauna of Bangladesh.
First record of Leptogenys hysterica Forel, 1900 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Ponerinae) from Pakistan
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Tariq , Bodlah Imran , Fareen Ammara Gull e , Huang Xiaolei
Published: December 2018

Leptogenys Roger, 1861 is one of the speciose genera in the subfamily Ponerinae.  There were no previous records of any species of this genus from Pakistan, though many such species were reported from various parts of the world, including its neighbouring countries.  In the current study, one species of this genus, L. hysterica Forel, 1900, is reported for the first time from Pakistan based on individuals of the worker caste.  Description, differential diagnosis, morphometrics, and illustrations of the species are provided along with notes on its distribution.  This study will provide a baseline for further exploration of this genus in Pakistan.
Amphibians of the Dibang River Basin, Arunachal Pradesh: an annotated checklist with distribution records
Authors: Roy Jayanta K. , Begum Ramie H. , Ahmed M. Firoz
Published: December 2018

The present study across the Dibang River Basin is being presented as an annotated checklist from Arunachal Pradesh.  A systematic survey was conducted during 2014–2017 by visual encounter surveys, as well as opportunistic records across the basin. Thirty-eight species of amphibians belonging to 17 genera in six families were recorded.  Five new distribution records for Arunachal Pradesh, and one genus Oreolalax was recorded for the first time from India.  Further, a rare report on Theloderma moloch and Rhacophorus tuberculatus from northeastern India provided significant information on species microhabitat and updated the amphibian distribution records from Arunachal Pradesh.
First report of darkling beetle Blaps orientalis Solier, 1848 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) from India
Authors: Hegde V. D. , Vasanthakumar D. , Manthen S. V.
Published: December 2018

While identifying the old (more than 50 years) collections of Western Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India, Pune, the occurrence of the species B. orientalis Solier,1848 from Pune constitute first report to India.
Advances in Antithrombotic Therapy
Authors: Weitz Jeffrey I. , Chan Noel C.
Published: December 2018

Thrombosis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Consequently, advances in antithrombotic therapy are needed to reduce the disease burden. This article focuses on 2 such advances. First, the prevention of atherothrombosis in patients with coronary or peripheral artery disease, which has been enhanced by the finding that the combination of low-dose rivaroxaban plus aspirin is superior to aspirin alone for prevention of recurrent ischemic events. However, this benefit comes at the cost of increased bleeding albeit not fatal bleeding. To overcome this problem, the second advance is the identification of factor XI as a target for new anticoagulants that are potentially safer than those currently available.
ZFP148 (Zinc-Finger Protein 148) Binds Cooperatively With NF-1 (Nuclear Factor 1) to Inhibit Smooth Muscle Marker Gene Expression During Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation
Authors: Salmon Morgan , Schaheen Basil , Spinosa Michael , Montgomery William , Pope Nicolas H. , Davis John P. , Johnston William F. , Sharma Ashish K. , Owens Gary K. , Merchant Juanita L. , Zehner Zendra E. , Upchurch Gilbert R. , Ailawadi Gorav
Published: December 2018

Objective—

The goal of this study was to determine the role of ZFP148 (zinc-finger protein 148) in aneurysm formation.

Approach and Results—

ZFP148 mRNA expression increased at day 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 after during abdominal aortic aneurysm formation in C57BL/6 mice. Loss of ZFP148 conferred abdominal aortic aneurysm protection using ERTCre+ ZFP148 flx/flx mice. In a third set of experiments, smooth muscle-specific loss of ZFP148 alleles resulted in progressively greater protection using novel transgenic mice (MYH [myosin heavy chain 11] Cre+ flx/flx, flx/wt, and wt/wt). Elastin degradation, LGAL3, and neutrophil staining were significantly attenuated, while α-actin staining was increased in ZFP148 knockout mice. Results were verified in total cell ZFP148 and smooth muscle-specific knockout mice using an angiotensin II model. ZFP148 smooth muscle-specific conditional mice demonstrated increased proliferation and ZFP148 was shown to bind to the p21 promoter during abdominal aortic aneurysm formation. ZFP148 smooth muscle-specific conditional knockout mice also demonstrated decreased apoptosis as measured by decreased cleaved caspase-3 staining. ZFP148 bound smooth muscle marker genes via chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis mediated by NF-1 (neurofibromin 1) promote histone H3K4 deacetylation via histone deacetylase 5. Transient transfections and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses demonstrated that NF-1 was required for ZFP148 protein binding to smooth muscle marker genes promoters during aneurysm formation. Elimination of NF-1 using shRNA approaches demonstrated that NF-1 is required for binding and elimination of NF-1 increased BRG1 recruitment, the ATPase subunit of the SWI/SWF complex, and increased histone acetylation.

Conclusions—

ZFP148 plays a critical role in multiple murine models of aneurysm formation. These results suggest that ZFP148 is important in the regulation of proliferation, smooth muscle gene downregulation, and apoptosis in aneurysm development.
Clot Contraction Drives the Translocation of Procoagulant Platelets to Thrombus Surface
Authors: Nechipurenko Dmitry Y. , Receveur Nicolas , Yakimenko Alena O. , Shepelyuk Taisiya O. , Yakusheva Alexandra A. , Kerimov Roman R. , Obydennyy Sergei I. , Eckly Anita , Léon Catherine , Gachet Christian , Grishchuk Ekaterina L. , Ataullakhanov Fazoil I. , Mangin Pierre H. , Panteleev Mikhail A.
Published: December 2018

Objective—

After activation at the site of vascular injury, platelets differentiate into 2 subpopulations, exhibiting either proaggregatory or procoagulant phenotype. Although the functional role of proaggregatory platelets is well established, the physiological significance of procoagulant platelets, the dynamics of their formation, and spatial distribution in thrombus remain elusive.

Approach and Results—

Using transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy of arterial thrombi formed in vivo after ferric chloride–induced injury of carotid artery or mechanical injury of abdominal aorta in mice, we demonstrate that procoagulant platelets are located at the periphery of the formed thrombi. Real-time cell tracking during thrombus formation ex vivo revealed that procoagulant platelets originate from different locations within the thrombus and subsequently translocate towards its periphery. Such redistribution of procoagulant platelets was followed by generation of fibrin at thrombus surface. Using in silico model, we show that the outward translocation of procoagulant platelets can be driven by the contraction of the forming thrombi, which mechanically expels these nonaggregating cells to thrombus periphery. In line with the suggested mechanism, procoagulant platelets failed to translocate and remained inside the thrombi formed ex vivo in blood derived from nonmuscle myosin (
MYH9
)-deficient mice. Ring-like distribution of procoagulant platelets and fibrin around the thrombus observed with blood of humans and wild-type mice was not present in thrombi of
MYH9
-knockout mice, confirming a major role of thrombus contraction in this phenomenon.

Conclusions—

Contraction of arterial thrombus is responsible for the mechanical extrusion of procoagulant platelets to its periphery, leading to heterogeneous structure of thrombus exterior.
Effects of
APOC3
Heterozygous Deficiency on Plasma Lipid and Lipoprotein Metabolism
Authors: Reyes-Soffer Gissette , Sztalryd Carol , Horenstein Richard B. , Holleran Stephen , Matveyenko Anastasiya , Thomas Tiffany , Nandakumar Renu , Ngai Colleen , Karmally Wahida , Ginsberg Henry N. , Ramakrishnan Rajasekhar , Pollin Toni I.
Published: December 2018

Objective—

Apo (apolipoprotein) CIII inhibits lipoprotein lipase (LpL)-mediated lipolysis of VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) triglyceride (TG) and decreases hepatic uptake of VLDL remnants. The discovery that 5% of Lancaster Old Order Amish are heterozygous for the
APOC3
R19X null mutation provided the opportunity to determine the effects of a naturally occurring reduction in apo CIII levels on the metabolism of atherogenic containing lipoproteins.

Approach and Results—

We conducted stable isotope studies of VLDL-TG and apoB100 in 5 individuals heterozygous for the null mutation
APOC3
R19X (CT) and their unaffected (CC) siblings. Fractional clearance rates and production rates of VLDL-TG and apoB100 in VLDL, IDL (intermediate-density lipoprotein), LDL, apo CIII, and apo CII were determined. Affected (CT) individuals had 49% reduction in plasma apo CIII levels compared with CCs (
P
<0.01) and reduced plasma levels of TG (35%,
P
<0.02), VLDL-TG (45%,
P
<0.02), and VLDL-apoB100 (36%,
P
<0.05). These changes were because of higher fractional clearance rates of VLDL-TG and VLDL-apoB100 with no differences in production rates. CTs had higher rates of the conversion of VLDL remnants to LDL compared with CCs. In contrast, rates of direct removal of VLDL remnants did not differ between the groups. As a result, the flux of apoB100 from VLDL to LDL was not reduced, and the plasma levels of LDL-cholesterol and LDL-apoB100 were not lower in the CT group. Apo CIII production rate was lower in CTs compared with CCs, whereas apo CII production rate was not different between the 2 groups. The fractional clearance rates of both apo CIII and apo CII were higher in CTs than CCs.

Conclusions—

These studies demonstrate that 50% reductions in plasma apo CIII, in otherwise healthy subjects, results in a significantly higher rate of conversion of VLDL to LDL, with little effect on direct hepatic uptake of VLDL. When put in the context of studies demonstrating significant protection from cardiovascular events in individuals with loss of function variants in the
APOC3
gene, our results provide strong evidence that therapies which increase the efficiency of conversion of VLDL to LDL, thereby reducing remnant concentrations, should reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Gene-Based Elevated Triglycerides and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Risk in the Women’s Genome Health Study
Authors: Ahmad Shafqat , Mora Samia , Ridker Paul M , Hu Frank B. , Chasman Daniel I.
Published: December 2018

Objective—

Higher triglyceride (TG) is a risk factor for incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but paradoxically, genetic susceptibility for higher TG has been associated with lower T2DM risk. There is also evidence that the genetic association may be modified by baseline TG. Whether such associations can be replicated and the interaction is selective for certain TG-rich lipoprotein particles remains to be explored.

Approach and Results—

Cox regression involving TG, TG-rich lipoprotein particles, and genetic determinants of TG was performed among 15 813 participants with baseline fasting status in the WGHS (Women’s Genome Health Study), including 1453 T2DM incident cases during a mean 18.6 (SD=5.3) years of follow-up. A weighted, 40–single-nucleotide polymorphism TG genetic risk score was inversely associated with incident T2DM (hazard ratio [95% CI], 0.66 [0.58–0.75]/10-TG risk alleles;
P
<0.0001) with adjustment for baseline body mass index, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and TG. TG-associated risk was higher among individuals in the low compared with the high 40–single-nucleotide polymorphism TG genetic risk score tertile (hazard ratio [95% CI], 1.98 [1.83–2.14] versus 1.68 [1.58–1.80] per mmol/L;
P
interaction
=0.0007). In TG-adjusted analysis, large and medium but not small TG-rich lipoprotein particles were associated with higher T2DM incidence for successively lower 40–single-nucleotide polymorphism TG genetic risk score tertiles,
P
interaction
=0.013, 0.012, and 0.620 across tertiles, respectively.

Conclusions—

Our results confirm the previous observations of the paradoxical associations of TG with T2DM while focusing attention on the larger TG-rich lipoprotein particle subfractions, suggesting their importance in clinical profiling of T2DM risk.
Proteins Altered by Surgical Weight Loss Highlight Biomarkers of Insulin Resistance in the Community
Authors: Shah Ravi V. , Hwang Shih-Jen , Yeri Ashish , Tanriverdi Kahraman , Pico Alexander R. , Yao Chen , Murthy Venkatesh , Ho Jennifer , Vitseva Olga , Demarco Danielle , Shah Sajani , Iafrati Mark D. , Levy Daniel , Freedman Jane E.
Published: December 2018

Objective—

Mechanisms of early and late improvements in cardiovascular risk after bariatric surgery and applicability to larger, at-risk populations remain unclear. We aimed to identify proteins altered after bariatric surgery and their relations to metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus.

Approach and Results—

We identified 19 proteins altered in 32 nonfasting plasma samples from a study of patients undergoing bariatric surgery who were evaluated preoperatively (visit 1) versus both early (visit 2; ≈3 months) and late (visit 3; ≈12 months) postoperative follow-up using predefined protein panels (Olink). Using in silico methods and publicly available gene expression repositories, we found that genes encoding 8 out of 19 proteins had highest expression in liver relative to other assayed tissues, with the top biological and disease processes, including major obesity-related vascular diseases. Of 19 candidate proteins in the surgical cohort, 6 were previously measured in >3000 FHS (Framingham Heart Study) participants (IGFBP [insulin-like growth factor binding protein]-1, IGFBP-2, P-selectin, CD163, LDL (low-density lipoprotein)-receptor, and PAI [plasminogen activator inhibitor]-1). A higher concentration of IGFBP-2 at baseline was associated with a lower risk of incident metabolic syndrome (odds ratio per log-normal unit, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.32–0.64;
P
=7.7×10
-6
) and diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.49–0.79;
P
=0.0001) after multivariable adjustment.

Conclusions—

Using a directed protein quantification platform (Olink), we identified known and novel proteins altered after surgical weight loss, including IGFBP-2. Future efforts in well-defined obesity intervention settings may further define and validate novel targets for the prevention of vascular disease in obesity.
Effectiveness and Safety of Oral Anticoagulants Among Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: Lip Gregory Y.H. , Keshishian Allison , Li Xiaoyan , Hamilton Melissa , Masseria Cristina , Gupta Kiran , Luo Xuemei , Mardekian Jack , Friend Keith , Nadkarni Anagha , Pan Xianying , Baser Onur , Deitelzweig Steven
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

This ARISTOPHANES study (Anticoagulants for Reduction in Stroke: Observational Pooled Analysis on Health Outcomes and Experience of Patients) used multiple data sources to compare stroke/systemic embolism (SE) and major bleeding (MB) among a large number of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients on non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) or warfarin.

Methods—

A retrospective observational study of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients initiating apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or warfarin from January 1, 2013, to September 30, 2015, was conducted pooling Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Medicare data and 4 US commercial claims databases. After 1:1 NOAC-warfarin and NOAC-NOAC propensity score matching in each database, the resulting patient records were pooled. Cox models were used to evaluate the risk of stroke/SE and MB across matched cohorts.

Results—

A total of 434 046 patients were included in the 6 matched cohorts: 100 977 apixaban-warfarin, 36 990 dabigatran-warfarin, 125 068 rivaroxaban-warfarin, 37 314 apixaban-dabigatran, 107 236 apixaban-rivaroxaban, and 37 693 dabigatran-rivaroxaban patient pairs. Apixaban (hazard ratio [HR], 0.64; 95% CI, 0.58–0.70), dabigatran (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.71–0.95), and rivaroxaban (HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.73–0.85) were associated with lower rates of stroke/SE compared with warfarin. Apixaban (HR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.56–0.63) and dabigatran (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.65–0.78) had lower rates of MB, and rivaroxaban (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02–1.10) had a higher rate of MB compared with warfarin. Differences exist in rates of stroke/SE and MB across NOACs.

Conclusions—

In this largest observational study to date on NOACs and warfarin, the NOACs had lower rates of stroke/SE and variable comparative rates of MB versus warfarin. The findings from this study may help inform the discussion on benefit and risk in the shared decision-making process for stroke prevention between healthcare providers and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier: NCT03087487.
Door-in-Door-Out Time at Primary Stroke Centers May Predict Outcome for Emergent Large Vessel Occlusion Patients
Authors: McTaggart Ryan A. , Moldovan Krisztina , Oliver Lori A. , Dibiasio Eleanor L. , Baird Grayson L. , Hemendinger Morgan L. , Haas Richard A. , Goyal Mayank , Wang Tracy Y. , Jayaraman Mahesh V.
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Interfacility transfers for thrombectomy in stroke patients with emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO) are associated with longer treatment times and worse outcomes. In this series, we examined the association between Primary Stroke Center (PSC) door-in to door-out (DIDO) times and outcomes for confirmed ELVO stroke transfers and factors that may modify the interaction.

Methods—

We retrospectively identified 160 patients transferred to a single Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) with anterior circulation ELVO between July 1, 2015 and May 30, 2017. We included patients with acute occlusions of the internal carotid artery or proximal middle cerebral artery (M1 or M2 segments), with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of ≥6. Workflow metrics included time from onset to recanalization, PSC DIDO, interfacility transfer time, CSC arrival to arterial puncture, and arterial puncture to recanalization. Primary outcome measure was National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at discharge and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days.

Results—

The median (Q1–Q3) age and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale of the 130 ELVO transfers analyzed was 75 (64–84) and 17 (11–22). Intravenous alteplase was administered to 64% of patients. Regarding specific workflow metrics, median (Q1–Q3) times (in minutes) were 241 (199–332) for onset to recanalization, 85 (68–111) for PSC DIDO, 26 (17–32) for interfacility transport, 21 (16–39) for CSC door to arterial puncture, and 24 (15–35) for puncture to recanalization. Median discharge National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 5 (2–16), and 46 (35%) patients had a favorable outcome at 90 days. Complete reperfusion (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Ischemia 2c/3) modified the deleterious association of DIDO on outcome.

Conclusions—

For patients diagnosed with ELVO at a PSC who are being transferred to a CSC for thrombectomy, longer DIDO times may have a deleterious effect on outcomes and may represent the single biggest modifiable factor in onset to recanalization time. PSCs should make efforts to decrease DIDO and routine use of DIDO as a performance measure is encouraged.