bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preserving Partial-Order Runs in Parametric Time Petri Nets
Authors: André Étienne , Chatain Thomas , Rodríguez César
Published: December 2016

Parameter synthesis for timed systems aims at deriving parameter valuations satisfying a given property. In this article, we target concurrent systems. We use partial-order semantics for parametric time Petri nets as a way to both cope with the well-known state-space explosion due to concurrency and significantly enhance the result of an existing synthesis algorithm. Given a reference parameter valuation, our approach synthesizes other valuations preserving the partial-order executions of the reference parameter valuation. We show the applicability of our approach using a tool applied to asynchronous circuits.
Reduction in the Number of Fault Injections for Blind Fault Attack on SPN Block Ciphers
Authors: Li Yang , Chen Mengting , Liu Zhe , Wang Jian
Published: December 2016

In 2014, a new fault analysis called
blind fault attack
(BFA) was proposed, in which attackers can only obtain the number of different faulty outputs without knowing the public data. The original BFA requires 480,000 fault injections to recover a 128-bit AES key. This work attempts to reduce the number of fault injections under the same attack assumptions. We analyze BFA from an information theoretical perspective and introduce a new probability-based distinguisher. Three approaches are proposed for different attack scenarios. The best one realized a 66.8% reduction of the number of fault injections on AES.
Some Mathematical Facts About Optimal Cache Replacement
Authors: Michaud Pierre
Published: December 2016

This article exposes and proves some mathematical facts about optimal cache replacement that were previously unknown or not proved rigorously. An explicit formula is obtained, giving OPT hits and misses as a function of past references. Several mathematical facts are derived from this formula, including a proof that OPT miss curves are always convex, and a new algorithm called
OPT tokens
, for reasoning about optimal replacement.
Pot
Authors: Vale Tiago M. , Silva João A. , Dias Ricardo J. , Lourenço João M.
Published: December 2016

This article presents Pot, a system that leverages the concept of preordered transactions to achieve deterministic multithreaded execution of programs that use Transactional Memory. Preordered transactions eliminate the root cause of nondeterminism in transactional execution: they provide the illusion of executing in a deterministic serial order, unlike traditional transactions that appear to execute in a nondeterministic order that can change from execution to execution. Pot uses a new concurrency control protocol that exploits the serialization order to distinguish between fast and speculative transaction execution modes in order to mitigate the overhead of imposing a deterministic order. We build two Pot prototypes: one using STM and another using off-the-shelf HTM. To the best of our knowledge, Pot enables deterministic execution of programs using off-the-shelf HTM for the first time. An experimental evaluation shows that Pot achieves deterministic execution of TM programs with low overhead, sometimes even outperforming nondeterministic executions, and clearly outperforming the state of the art.
Lipomatous Hypertrophy of the Atrial Septum in a Patient Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Strecker Thomas , Weyand Michael , Agaimy Abbas
Published: December 2016

Background. Lipomatous hypertrophy of the atrial septum (LHAS) is a rare entity characterized by mass-forming deposition of fatty tissue within the atrial septum. To date, <300 cases have been reported; many of them were autopsy findings. The clinical presentation of LHAS varies from incidental asymptomatic mass (most frequent form) to severe life-threatening cardiovascular complications necessitating emergency cardiac surgery.Case Presentation. Here, we present the successful surgical resection of such a massive LHAS which was found incidentally on preoperative investigation of a 71-year-old patient with progressive coronary heart disease. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of lipomatous hypertrophy of the atrial septum.Conclusions. The described case report illustrates an unusual example of LHAS in a patient undergoing a planned coronary artery bypass surgery. In this case, surgical intervention was justified to avoid later outflow obstructions.
Uncertainty Analysis on Risk Assessment of Water Inrush in Karst Tunnels
Authors: Hao Yiqing , Rong Xiaoli , Ma Linjian , Fan Pengxian , Lu Hao
Published: December 2016

An improved attribute recognition method is reviewed and discussed to evaluate the risk of water inrush in karst tunnels. Due to the complex geology and hydrogeology, the methodology discusses the uncertainties related to the evaluation index and attribute measure. The uncertainties can be described by probability distributions. The values of evaluation index and attribute measure were employed through random numbers generated by Monte Carlo simulations and an attribute measure belt was chosen instead of the linearity attribute measure function. Considering the uncertainties of evaluation index and attribute measure, the probability distributions of four risk grades are calculated using random numbers generated by Monte Carlo simulation. According to the probability distribution, the risk level can be analyzed under different confidence coefficients. The method improvement is more accurate and feasible compared with the results derived from the attribute recognition model. Finally, the improved attribute recognition method was applied and verified in Longmenshan tunnel in China.
“Gauze Technique” in the Treatment of the Fungus Ball of the Maxillary Sinus: A Technique as Simple as It Is Effective
Authors: Garofalo Pietro , Griffa Alessandro , Dumas Georges , Perottino Flavio
Published: December 2016

Fungus ball of maxillary sinus generally affects immunocompetent and nonatopic subjects. Although endoscopic removal is the current gold standard treatment, removal is at times difficult due to an accumulation of fungal elements in the anterior ad inferior recesses. Aim. To present our experience of maxillary fungus ball treated by the “gauze technique” that avoids these removal difficulties. Materials and Methods. A retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive study of 25 patients affected by maxillary fungus ball was carried out: 19 were treated by the “gauze technique” and 6 were treated without “gauze technique.” Results. A comparison was made between the two groups for surgery procedure time, length of hospitalization, time from surgery to nasal unpacking, complications, and postsurgical patient satisfaction. The only statistically significant difference observed was a shorter surgical procedure time (p<0.05) for the “gauze technique.” Conclusions. The data obtained in this study demonstrated that the “gauze technique” is a safe, simple, and quick technique, able to reduce surgery procedure time whilst providing excellent functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Monitoring the Interaction of Two Heterocyclic Compounds on Carbon Steel by Electrochemical Polarization, Noise, and Quantum Chemical Studies
Authors: Raphael Vinod P. , Shanmughan Shaju K. , Kakkassery Joby Thomas
Published: December 2016

A heterocyclic phenylhydrazone 2-[(E)-(2-phenylhydrazinylidene)methyl]pyridine (P2APH) and its reduced form 2-[(2-phenylhydrazinyl)methyl]pyridine (RP2APH) were synthesized, characterized, and subjected to corrosion inhibition investigation on carbon steel (CS) in 1 M HCl using gravimetric, polarization, electrochemical noise, quantum chemical, and surface studies. P2APH showed more inhibition capacity than RP2PPH. But RP2PPH was very stable in acid medium and showed pronounced corrosion inhibition efficacy for days. Energy of HOMO and LUMO, their difference, number of electrons transferred, electronegativity, chemical hardness, and so forth were evaluated by quantum chemical studies. Agreeable correlation was observed between the results of quantum chemical calculations and other corrosion monitoring techniques.
The Value of the Model and Quantitative Parameters of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Judging the Severity of SHPT
Authors: Liang Xing-xin , Li Fan , Gao Feng , Liu Yang , Qiao Xiao-hui , Zhang Zheng , Du Lian-fang
Published: December 2016

Using the model and quantitative parameters of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to assess the severity of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) was proposed. 42 SHPT patients who underwent CEUS examination were divided into three groups, light, moderate, and heavy as per parathyroid hormone (PTH). The process of CEUS was divided into two phases, wash-in phase and wash-out phase. The three groups were analyzed with their enhancing model in the two phases. The quantitative parameters of CEUS such as Arrival Time (AT), Time to Peak (TTP), Mean Transit Time (MTT), and Maximum Intensity (IMAX) were measured by time-intensity curve (TIC) and compared among the three groups. The enhancing model of light SHPT, moderate SHPT, and heavy SHPT showed statistical significance in wash-in phase and wash-out phase (P<0.05). No difference was observed in AT and TTP among the three groups (P>0.05) while MTT and IMAX showed statistical significance (P<0.05). The CEUS of light SHPT was characterized by “slow-in, fast-out, and lower-enhancement” with short enhancement time; the CEUS of moderate SHPT was characterized by “fast-in, fast-out, and higher-enhancement” with slightly long enhancement time; the CEUS of heavy SHPT was characterized by “fast-in, slow-out, and higher-enhancement” with long enhancement time. Therefore, the model and quantitative parameters of CEUS can be benefit for the assessment of the severity of SHPT.
An Unusual Traumatic Presentation: Luxatio Erecta Humeri and Concomitant Hip Dislocation
Authors: Demirel Mehmet , Anarat Berkan , Ersin Mehmet , Erşen Ali , Şen Cengiz
Published: December 2016

Introduction. Inferior dislocation of the glenohumeral joint, known as luxatio erecta humeri, and posterior hip dislocation are both rare presentations in the emergency department. The most common aetiology is falling for luxatio erecta humeri. The aim of this manuscript was to present a unique case in terms of luxatio erecta humeri, which has a different aetiology, treatment method, and concomitant injury. Presentation of Case. We report a construction worker who was rescued from a collapsed building who presented with both luxatio erecta humeri and complex posterior hip dislocation. An orthopaedic surgeon reducted luxatio erecta humeri with a one-step reduction technique under procedural anaesthesia as soon as the patient’s vital signs were stable. Discussion. Different concomitant injuries and various injury mechanisms have been described in regard to inferior shoulder dislocation in the literature. However, posterior dislocation of the hip as a concomitant distant region injury and trapping as an injury mechanism for luxatio erecta humeri are being described for the first time in this case report. Two reduction manoeuvers, one-step and two-step, have been used for this dislocation. Some authors suggested that a two-step manoeuver can be more easy to apply. In our specific case, luxatio erecta was easily reducted by a single operator in a single attempt. Conclusion. Luxatio erecta humeri may occur from trapping and complex injuries can accompany luxatio erecta humeri in patients with multiple trauma. A one-step closed reduction can be easily applied by a single operator under procedural anaesthesia.
125I Seeds Radiation Induces Paraptosis-Like Cell Death via PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in HCT116 Cells
Authors: Hu Lelin , Wang Hao , Zhao Yong , Wang Junjie
Published: December 2016

125I seeds brachytherapy implantation has been extensively performed in unresectable and rerecurrent rectal carcinoma. Many studies on the cancer-killing activity of125I seeds radiation mainly focused on its ability to trigger apoptosis, which is the most well-known and dominant type of cell death induced by radiation. However our results showed some unique morphological features such as cell swelling, cytoplasmic vacuolation, and plasma membrane integrity, which is obviously different to apoptosis. In this study, clonogenic proliferation was carried out to assay survival fraction. Transmission electron microscopy was used to analyze ultrastructural and evaluate morphologic feature of HCT116 cells after exposure to125I seeds radiation. Immunofluorescence analysis was used to detect the origin of cytoplasmic vacuoles. Flow cytometry analysis was employed to detect the size and granularity of HCT116 cells. Western blot was performed to measure the protein level of AIP1, caspase-3, AKT, p-Akt (Thr308), p-Akt (Ser473), andβ-actin. We found that125I seeds radiation activated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and could trigger paraptosis-like cell death. Moreover, inhibitor of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway could inhibit paraptosis-like cell death induced by125I seeds radiation. Our data suggest that125I seeds radiation can induce paraptosis-like cell death via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Role of Eukaryotic Initiation Factors during Cellular Stress and Cancer Progression
Authors: Sharma Divya Khandige , Bressler Kamiko , Patel Harshil , Balasingam Nirujah , Thakor Nehal
Published: December 2016

Protein synthesis can be segmented into distinct phases comprising mRNA translation initiation, elongation, and termination. Translation initiation is a highly regulated and rate-limiting step of protein synthesis that requires more than 12 eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs). Extensive evidence shows that the transcriptome and corresponding proteome do not invariably correlate with each other in a variety of contexts. In particular, translation of mRNAs specific to angiogenesis, tumor development, and apoptosis is altered during physiological and pathophysiological stress conditions. In cancer cells, the expression and functions of eIFs are hampered, resulting in the inhibition of global translation and enhancement of translation of subsets of mRNAs by alternative mechanisms. A precise understanding of mechanisms involving eukaryotic initiation factors leading to differential protein expression can help us to design better strategies to diagnose and treat cancer. The high spatial and temporal resolution of translation control can have an immediate effect on the microenvironment of the cell in comparison with changes in transcription. The dysregulation of mRNA translation mechanisms is increasingly being exploited as a target to treat cancer. In this review, we will focus on this context by describing both canonical and noncanonical roles of eIFs, which alter mRNA translation.
Procedure Time for Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection according to Location, considering Both Mucosal Circumferential Incision and Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Konuma Hironori , Matsumoto Kenshi , Ueyama Hiroya , Komori Hiroyuki , Akazawa Yoichi , Ueyama Misuzu , Nakagawa Yuta , Morimoto Takashi , Takeda Tsutomu , Matsumoto Kohei , Asaoka Daisuke , Hojo Mariko , Nagahara Akihito , Yao Takashi , Miyazaki Akihisa , Watanabe Sumio
Published: December 2016

Background. Previous assessments of technical difficulty and procedure time for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of gastric neoplasms did not take into account several critical determinants of these parameters. However, two key phases of ESD determine the total procedure time: the mucosal circumference incision speed (CIS) and submucosal dissection speed (SDS). Methods. We included 302 cases of en bloc and R0 resection of gastric neoplasms performed by 10 operators who had completed the training program at our hospital. Twelve locations were classified based on multiple criteria, such as condition of surrounding mucosa, lesion vascularity, presence of submucosal fat, ulcers, scars, fibrosis, and scope and device maneuverability. Lesions in different locations were classified into three groups based on the length of the procedure: fast, moderate, or late. Results. A significant difference was found in CIS and SDS for each location (p<0.01), which demonstrates the validity of this classification system. In several locations, CIS and SDS were not consistent with each other. Conclusion. CIS and SDS did not correspond to each other even for lesions in the same location. Consideration of ESD procedure time for gastric neoplasms requires a more elaborate classification system than that previously reported.
Yoga Therapy in Children with Cystic Fibrosis Decreases Immediate Anxiety and Joint Pain
Authors: McNamara Christopher , Johnson Mahrya , Read Lisa , Vander Velden Heidi , Thygeson Megan , Liu Meixia , Gandrud Laura , McNamara John
Published: December 2016

This study was designed to determine whether yoga might alleviate symptoms of pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is the most common genetic, life‐limiting chronic disease among Caucasian populations. It primarily affects the lungs but also many other secretory organs and consequently leads to significant morbidities. Research has shown that children with CF have significantly increased depression, anxiety, and pain compared to their healthy counterparts. Subjects participated in six one‐on‐one sessions over a 10‐week period with a certified instructor who designed each yoga practice based on a preestablished list of 30 yoga asanas. Questionnaires evaluating pain, sleep disturbance, sustained anxiety, immediate anxiety, and depression were administered. Differences between premeasures and postmeasures were evaluated using a two‐sided test. Twenty subjects were assessed (12 females/8 males), median age of 11 (7–20) years. Mean immediate anxiety scores decreased (before session to after session 29 to 23.6, respectively, p < 0.001). Joint pain improved (3.25 to 3.65, p = 0.028). CFQ‐R emotion subscale improved from 79.2 to 85 (p = 0.073), and the respiratory subscale improved from 66.7 to 79.2 (p = 0.076). Other results were less notable. We conclude that yoga may reduce immediate anxiety and joint pain in patients with CF.
Multiobjective Reliable Cloud Storage with Its Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Xiyang , Fan Lei , Wang Liming , Meng Sha
Published: December 2016

Information abounds in all fields of the real life, which is often recorded as digital data in computer systems and treated as a kind of increasingly important resource. Its increasing volume growth causes great difficulties in both storage and analysis. The massive data storage in cloud environments has significant impacts on the quality of service (QoS) of the systems, which is becoming an increasingly challenging problem. In this paper, we propose a multiobjective optimization model for the reliable data storage in clouds through considering both cost and reliability of the storage service simultaneously. In the proposed model, the total cost is analyzed to be composed of storage space occupation cost, data migration cost, and communication cost. According to the analysis of the storage process, the transmission reliability, equipment stability, and software reliability are taken into account in the storage reliability evaluation. To solve the proposed multiobjective model, a Constrained Multiobjective Particle Swarm Optimization (CMPSO) algorithm is designed. At last, experiments are designed to validate the proposed model and its solution PSO algorithm. In the experiments, the proposed model is tested in cooperation with 3 storage strategies. Experimental results show that the proposed model is positive and effective. The experimental results also demonstrate that the proposed model can perform much better in alliance with proper file splitting methods.
A Hybrid Wavelet Fuzzy Neural Network and Switching Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for AC Servo System
Authors: Hou Run-min , Hou Yuan-long , Wang Chao , Gao Qiang , Sun Hao
Published: December 2016

A hybrid computational intelligent approach which combines wavelet fuzzy neural network (WFNN) with switching particle swarm optimization (SPSO) algorithm is proposed to control the nonlinearity, wide variation in loads, time variation, and uncertain disturbance of the high-power AC servo system. The WFNN method integrated wavelet transforms with fuzzy rules and is proposed to achieve precise positioning control of the AC servo system. As the WFNN controller, the back-propagation method is used for the online learning algorithm. Moreover, the SPSO is proposed to adapt the learning rates of the WFNN online, where the velocity updating equation is according to a Markov chain, which makes it easy to jump the local minimum, and acceleration coefficients are dependent on mode switching. Furthermore, the stability of the closed loop system is guaranteed by using the Lyapunov method. The results of the simulation and the prototype test prove that the proposed approach can improve the steady-state performance and possess strong robustness to both parameter perturbation and load disturbance.
Do Abrasives Play a Role in Toothpaste Efficacy against Erosion/Abrasion?
Authors: Ganss Carolina , Möllers Maike , Schlueter Nadine
Published: December 2016

Abrasives may counteract the efficacy of anti-erosion toothpastes either due to physical effects or due to interaction with active agents. This study aimed to investigate whether the amount of abrasives is a determinant for the efficacy of Sn2+-containing toothpastes with or without chitosan additive. Enamel samples were eroded (0.50 wt% citric acid, pH 2.5; 6 × 2 min/day) on a shaking desk - 30/min in experiment 1 (E1) and 35/min in experiments 2 (E2) and 3 (E3) - and immersed in toothpaste slurries (2 × 2 min). Half of the samples were additionally brushed (15 s, load 200 g) within the immersion time. The toothpastes contained 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% silica. In E1 and E2 the active ingredients were F- (700 ppm as amine fluoride, 700 ppm as NaF) and Sn2+ (3,500 ppm as SnCl2); in E3 chitosan (0.5%) was additionally added. The placebo contained 20% silica. Tissue loss was determined profilometrically. In E1, slurries completely inhibited tissue loss; distinct surface deposits occurred. With brushing, tissue loss significantly increased up to an abrasive content of 10%, but decreased significantly with higher amounts; 20% silica revealed similar values as the abrasive-free formulation. In E2, all slurries inhibited tissue loss distinctly irrespective of the amounts of abrasives. With brushing, a similar trend as in E1 was observed but with much less efficacy. The chitosan-containing formulations in E3 were much more effective; similar results as in E1 were found. In conclusion, the amount of abrasives had no effect when toothpastes were applied as slurries, but played an important role with brushing.
Systemic Therapy of Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Plentz Ruben R. , Malek Nisar P.
Published: December 2016

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CC) is the second most common primary malignant liver disease. During the last decades, various novel therapies have been introduced in the field of oncology; nevertheless, the number of treatment options for CC is still limited. Methods: In this article, current palliative chemotherapy concepts as well as new drug therapies are outlined. Results: Gemcitabine and cisplatin are the standard treatment of care for patients with inoperable CC. Second-line chemotherapy is not standardized yet and is dependent on the first-line compounds. Antibodies against VEGFR and EGFR showed mixed or negative results. New molecular systemic treatments are not established yet. Conclusion: Many clinical trials are still ongoing and new therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapies, are under active investigation.
Didymin Alleviates Hepatic Fibrosis Through Inhibiting ERK and PI3K/Akt Pathways via Regulation of Raf Kinase Inhibitor Protein
Authors: Lin Xing , Bai Faicheng , Nie Jinlan , Lu Shengjuan , Lu Chunyuang , Zhu Xunshuai , Wei Jinbin , Lu Zhongpeng , Huang Quanfang
Published: December 2016

Background: Didymin has been reported to have anti-cancer potential. However, the effect of didymin on liver fibrosis remains illdefined. Methods: Hepatic fibrosis was induced by CCl4 in rats. The effects of didymin on liver pathology and collagen accumulation were observed by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome staining, respectively. Serum transaminases activities and collagen-related indicators levels were determined by commercially available kits. Moreover, the effects of didymin on hepatic stellate cell apoptosis and cell cycle were analyzed by flow cytometry. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by using rhodamine-123 dye. The expression of Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP) and the phosphorylation of the ERK/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways were assessed by Western blot. Results: Didymin significantly ameliorated chronic liver injury and collagen deposition. It strongly inhibited hepatic stellate cells proliferation, induced apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase. Moreover, didymin notably attenuated mitochondrial membrane potential, accompanied by release of cytochrome C. Didymin significantly inhibited the ERK/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways. The effects of didymin on the collagen accumulation in rats and on the biological behaviors of hepatic stellate cells were largely abolished by the specific RKIP inhibitor locostatin. Conclusion: Didymin alleviates hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting ERK/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways via regulation of RKIP expression.
Local Resection of Primary Tumor in Upfront Stage IV Breast Cancer
Authors: Kolben Thomas , Kolben Theresa M. , Himsl Isabelle , Degenhardt Tom , Engel Jutta , Wuerstlein Rachel , Mahner Sven , Harbeck Nadia , Kahlert Steffen
Published: December 2016

Background: This study aimed to identify the association of local surgery of the primary tumor in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients with overall survival (OS) and prognostic factors. Patients and Methods: Patients with primary MBC (1990-2006) were included in our retrospective analysis (n = 236). 83.1% had surgery for the primary tumor. OS was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Predictive factors for OS were determined. Results: Median follow-up was 123 months for all patients still alive at the time of analysis. In univariate analysis, patients with surgery of the primary tumor had significantly prolonged OS (28.9 vs. 23.9 months). Within the surgery group, patients with MBC limited to 1 organ system had a better outcome (39.3 vs. 24.9 months), as did asymptomatic patients. Independent risk factors for shorter OS were hormone receptor negativity, symptoms, and involvement of ≥ 1 organ system. Conclusion: Patient selection for local therapy was confounded by a more favorable profile and a lesser tumor burden before surgery, which might implicate a bias. Nevertheless, our univariate results indicate that local surgery of the primary tumor in MBC patients could be considered as part of the therapeutic regimen in selected patients. However, larger patient numbers are needed to prove these findings in the multivariate model.
Effects of High Density Lipoprotein Raising Therapies on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, with or without Renal Impairment: The Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Study
Authors: Papademetriou Vasilios , Lovato Laura , Tsioufis Costas , Cushman William , Applegate William B. , Mottle Amy , Punthakee Zubin , Nylen Eric , Doumas Michael ,   for the ACCORD Study Group
Published: December 2016

Background: The role of high density lipoprotein-raising interventions in addition to statin therapy in patients with diabetes remains controversial. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a strong modifier of cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. We therefore investigated the impact of CKD status at baseline on outcomes in patients with diabetes randomized to standard statin or statin plus fenofibrate treatment in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) lipid trial. Methods: Among 5,464 participants in the ACCORD lipid trial, 3,554 (65%) were free of CKD at baseline, while 1,910 (35%) had mild to moderate CKD. Differences in CV outcomes during follow-up between CKD and non-CKD subgroups were examined. In addition, the effect of fenofibrate as compared to placebo on CV outcomes was examined for both subgroups. Results: All CV outcomes were 1.4-3 times higher among patients with CKD as compared to non-CKD patients. In patients with CKD, the addition of fenofibrate had no effect on any of the primary or secondary outcomes. In patients without CKD, however, the addition of fenofibrate was associated with a significant 36% reduction of CV mortality (hazards ratio [HR] 0.64; 95% CI 0.42-0.97; p value for treatment interaction <0.05) and 44% lower rate of fatal or non-fatal congestive heart failure (CHF; HR 0.56; 95% CI 0.37-0.84; p value treatment interaction <0.03). Conclusions: For patients with type 2 diabetes at high CV risk but no CKD, fenofibrate therapy added to statin reduced the CV mortality and the rate of fatal and non-fatal CHF.
Lost Productivity in Stroke Survivors: An Econometrics Analysis
Authors: Vyas Manav V. , Hackam Daniel G. , Silver Frank L. , Laporte Audrey , Kapral Moira K.
Published: December 2016

Background: Stroke leads to a substantial societal economic burden. Loss of productivity among stroke survivors is a significant contributor to the indirect costs associated with stroke. We aimed to characterize productivity and factors associated with employability in stroke survivors. Methods: We used the Canadian Community Health Survey 2011-2012 to identify stroke survivors and employment status. We used multivariable logistic models to determine the impact of stroke on employment and on factors associated with employability, and used Heckman models to estimate the effect of stroke on productivity (number of hours worked/week and hourly wages). Results: We included data from 91,633 respondents between 18 and 70 years and identified 923 (1%) stroke survivors. Stroke survivors were less likely to be employed (adjusted OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.33-0.46) and had hourly wages 17.5% (95% CI 7.7-23.7) lower compared to the general population, although there was no association between work hours and being a stroke survivor. We found that factors like older age, not being married, and having medical comorbidities were associated with lower odds of employment in stroke survivors in our sample. Conclusions: Stroke survivors are less likely to be employed and they earn a lower hourly wage than the general population. Interventions such as dedicated vocational rehabilitation and policies targeting return to work could be considered to address this lost productivity among stroke survivors.
Similarities of the K/Pc dinoflagellate cyst associations between South Atlantic and Indian proto-oceans
Authors: Menezes Júnior Bispo de , Garcia Maria Judite , Premaor Eduardo , Oliveira Paulo Eduardo De , Arai Mitsuru , Bernardes-de-Oliveira Mary Elizabeth Cerruti , Kavali Pauline Sabina , Shivanna Mahesh
Published: December 2016

In this contribution we present the composition of the Late Cretaceous / Paleocene dinoflagellate cyst assemblages found in the Pelotas Basin, southern Brazil in order to provide a first paleobiogeographical comparison between this location, India and other former Gondwana continents: South America (Argentina and Uruguay), Africa (Nigeria and Western Ghana), Antarctica, Australia, and New Zealand. A total of 13 taxa, some endemic and other cosmopolitan were identified. The paleoenvironment of the Gondwana former members basins, as previously presented and attested by the dinoflagellate cysts are marginal marine nearshore, varying from neritic to shallow neritic and lagoonal or coastal swamps, which permitted the deposition of sediments in anoxic marine conditions. The present analysis of similarity between K/Pc dinoflagellate cyst associations allowed the establishment of paleobiogeographic distribution.
Floristic similarities of the Artinskian Siderópolis Member macroflora, Rio Bonito formation (Paraná Basin, Brazil) with Cisuralian paleofloras of India
Authors: Bernardes-de-Oliveira Mary Elizabeth Cerruti , Kavali Pauline Sabina , Mune Sandra Eiko , Garcia Maria Judite , Shivanna Mahesh , Iannuzzi Roberto , Pereira Karoline Gonçalves
Published: December 2016

This contribution focuses on the relationship between the Siderópolis Member paleoflora and Indian Gondwanan paleofloras, especially with those of the Cisuralian stages, thus providing additional criteria for the correlation of Western and Eastern Gondwanan coal successions in the lower Permian interval. Despite the large number of species in common with the Karharbari Stage (Sakmarian) flora, the Siderópolis paleoflora exhibits a higher percentage and diversification of the genus Glossopteris, which is less expressive in the Karharbari Stage floras, while the declining Gangamopteris-Noeggerathiopsis complex in Siderópolis Member paleoflora still dominates the associations of Karharbari Stage. However, the floristic composition of the lower level of the Barakar Stage (Artinskian), despite having fewer species in common with the Siderópolis paleoflora, exhibits the characters of the latter vis-à-vis the dominance and diversity of the genus Glossopteris over the Gangamopteris‑Noeggerathiopsis complex, which decreases both in diversity as well as in abundance in the lower Barakar, similar to what occurs in the Brazilian paleoflora. The decline of the icehouse stage and the similar latitudinal position of the Gondwanan regions compared in the present study seem to have acted as important factors to the development of similar vegetation patterns in coal floras from Western (Brazilian) and Eastern (Indian) Gondwana during the Artinskian.
The Artinskian Siderópolis Member macroflora, Rio Bonito Formation and its stratigraphical correlation with other early Permian macrofloras of Paraná Basin, Brazil
Authors: Bernardes-de-Oliveira Mary Elizabeth Cerruti , Mune Sandra Eiko , Garcia Maria Judite , Iannuzzi Roberto , Guerra-Sommer Margot , Jasper André , Kavali Pauline Sabina , Shivanna Mahesh , Pereira Karoline Gonçalves
Published: December 2016

An overview of the composition of the paleoflora preserved in clay-siltstones of the Siderópolis Member, Rio Bonito Formation is presented in order to establish phytostratigraphical comparisons with other Late Pennsylvanian and Cisuralian paleofloras of the Paraná Basin. The Rio Bonito Formation, the most important of the coal bearing lithostratigraphic units of the Paraná Basin belongs to the Gondwana I Supersequence (Pennsylvanian-Early Triassic). The Siderópolis paleoflora occurs in the uppermost layers of coal of Rio Bonito Formation in Santa Catarina coalfield in four distinct localities of the State of Santa Catarina: Lauro Muller, Criciúma, São Marcos and Treviso. In this paleoflora the glossopterid leaves predominate with an evident dominance of the genus Glossopteris over Gangamopteris, followed by Cordaitalean leaves (Noeggerathiopsis) and seeds (Cordaicarpus, Samaropsis, Cornucarpus). Sterile fronds are common and few are fertile (Sphenopteris, Pecopteris, Ponsotheca and Notoangaridium). Pteridosperm reproductive structures (Arberia, Arberiopsis, Ottokaria) are not frequent and branches of conifers (Brasilocladus, Buriadia) are rare. Concerning other paleofloras of the basin, the Siderópolis paleoflora is distinguished by high diversity and many exclusive taxa showing only few similarities with some paleofloras registered in Rio Grande do Sul, occurring in outcrops of the Rio Bonito Formation such as Morro do Papaléo (upper section) and Quitéria. The differences may reflect an upper stratigraphic position, but may also indicate differences in sedimentation and / or in paleoecological conditions.
The Ventromedial Frontal Lobe Contributes to Forming Effective Solutions to Real-world Problems
Authors: Peters Sarah L. , Fellows Lesley K. , Sheldon Signy
Published: December 2016

Although the ventromedial frontal lobe (VMF) has been implicated in several complex cognitive tasks such as decision-making and problem solving, the processes for which this region is critical remain unclear. Laboratory studies have largely focused on how the VMF contributes to decision-making when outcomes or options are provided, but in the real world generating appropriate options is likely a crucial and rate-limiting initial step. Here, we determined how VMF damage affected the option generation phase of naturalistic problem solving. A group of patients with VMF damage and two controls groups—age-matched healthy participants and patients with frontal damage sparing VMF—were asked to generate as many options as possible to five scenarios depicting open-ended, real-world problems (e.g., having lunch at a restaurant and forgetting your wallet at home). Both the number of options and the effectiveness of each option generated were examined. Damage to VMF led to a significant reduction in both the number of options produced across all problem-solving scenarios and the ability to generate effective options, most notably for scenarios that were social in nature. We discuss these findings in terms of the mechanisms by which the VMF may contribute to option generation, focusing on proposals suggesting this region is important for integrating subjective value and retrieving schematic representations.
Prevalence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in a Nicaraguan, micro-endemic Neotropical salamander, Bolitoglossa mombachoensis
Authors: Stark Tariq , Laurijssens Carlijn , Weterings Martijn , Martel An , Köhler Gunther , Pasmans Frank
Published: December 2016

Amphibians are the most threatened terrestrial vertebrates on the planet and are iconic in the global biodiversity crisis. Their global decline caused by the fungal agentBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) is well known. Declines of Mesoamerican salamanders of the family Plethodontidae, mainly affecting high elevation species, have equally been attributed toBd. Here we report the prevalence ofBdin a population of a high elevationBolitoglossaspecies in Nicaragua, since its description in 1999 until 2011 in the absence of any obvious population declines. Our findings show a low prevalence in an environmental context where pathogen driven declines would be expected to occur.
Social complexity and cultural transmission of dialects in killer whales
Authors: Filatova Olga A. , Ivkovich Tatiana V. , Guzeev Mikhail A. , Burdin Alexandr M. , Hoyt Erich
Published: December 2016

Many social animals have cultural traditions that may shape their societies while the social structure can in turn influence how the culture is acquired. Killer whales possess culturally transmitted dialects. The divergence of dialects was thought to occur simultaneously and consistently with the gradual fission of matrilines. In this paper we compare the social associations across matrilineal units, Bayesian phylogeny of dialects and similarity of particular syllables to test whether dialects affect social structure and whether associations or common origin define similarity of call types. We found that neither phylogeny of dialects nor similarity of syllables was correlated to associations between matrilineal units, but similarity of syllables was correlated to phylogeny of dialects for four of the six syllables analysed. The complexity and fluidity of social ties between matrilineal units and the variation in cultural transmission patterns produce a complex relationship between the social network and the socially learned vocalizations.
Die Weisheit Sophia—ein ganzer Kerl? Königsideologie und Männlichkeitsdiskurs—einige Überlegungen zu Weish 8
Authors: Richter Clarissa
Published: December 2016

At first glance, the author of Wisdom 8 tells us the love story of King Solomon and Sophia. However, a closer look reveals that he wittily draws on familiar motifs from Hellenistic, Egyptian and Jewish backgrounds. By means of appropriation and transformation, he intertwines various semantic threads and unleashes an entirely new image of Lady Wisdom. Scrutinizing components such as royal and philosophical ideologies, the contest for excellence, and asceticism exposes a discourse of inherent masculinity. At the end of this golden thread, there emerges the idea of re-engendering.
un Peacekeeping as the Most Presentable Part of Japan’s 2015 Peace and Security Legislation
Authors: Toyoda Tetsuya
Published: December 2016

In September 2015, the Japanese Diet enacted a series of laws – the Peace and Security Legislation – to enable the Japan Self-Defense Force to play an enhanced role in peace deployments overseas. The enactment of the new laws was made possible by a “new” interpretation of Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution. While the main objective of the introduction of the laws was aimed at strengthening the alliance with the United States, jsdf participation in peace operations was also an important consideration politically. This article suggests that the Japanese government will now need to convince the public that the new Peace and Security Legislation is compatible with Japan’s constitutionally mandated pacifism. In light of the prospect of an expanded participation of Japan in international peace operations this will be particularly important.
The Legal Quagmire of Civilian Protection in Peacekeeping under Japan’s New Security Legislation
Authors: Nasu Hitoshi
Published: December 2016

Japan’s new security legislation, enacted on 30 September 2015 and came into force on 29 March 2016, has expanded the scope in which the Japanese Self-Defence Forces (sdf) personnel can use weapons while engaging in a peacekeeping mission. Among other changes, it authorises the sdf to use weapons in order to protect civilians (civilian protection mandate) or to come to the aid of geographically distant units (“come-to-the-aid” mandate). While this policy itself deserves approbation, its implementation by the sdf in peacekeeping operations under the new security legislation requires careful consideration. This article examines the legal quagmire they will encounter due to the recent jurisprudential development and associated debate regarding the regulation of the use of force in peacekeeping under international law and the circumstances where legal obligations may arise to use force in order to protect civilians. It concludes by suggesting the need for Japan to form its own legal position in relation to each of the debatable legal issues and to develop national rules of engagement for each peacekeeping operation they participate in with a view to effectively communicating its legal position in operational terms to its forces.
Quelques particularités grammaticales des noms humains en coréen
Authors: Roger-Yun Soyoung
Published: December 2016

This article presents some grammatical particularities of human nouns in Korean, all connected to plurality. Because of the complex phenomena linked to the plurality in Korean, we will put the stress on the contextual conditions of the asymmetric behavior of human and non-human nouns. This asymmetric treatment of human and non-human nouns of the Korean grammar is a very remarkable property, which is not found in the Indo-European languages such as French, nor in any other Asian languages such as Japanese or Chinese.
On recent claims about stress and tone in Beijing Mandarin
Authors: Dell François
Published: December 2016

According to Duanmu (2000), stress in Standard Chinese is characterized by left-headed feet. This review examines the phonological arguments given in the book supporting this claim. The conclusion is that the book fails to present any solid phonological evidence in favor of left-headed stress feet in Standard Chinese.
Description of Backusella constricta sp. nov. (Mucorales, ex Zygomycota) from the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, including a key to species of Backusella
Authors: LIMA DIOGO X. , VOIGT KERSTIN , DE SOUZA CARLOS A.F. , DE OLIVEIRA RAFAEL J.V. , SOUZA-MOTTA CRISTINA M. , SANTIAGO ANDRÉ L.C.M. DE A.
Published: December 2016

The Backusella genus comprises mucoralean saprobes that inhabit in mainly soil and form transitorily curved (when young, erect at maturity) sporangiophores arising directly from the substratum, with simultaneous production of both sporangia and sporangiola. During a study of Mucorales in soil from an Atlantic Rainforest in Pernambuco, Brazil, one specimen of Backusella was isolated and characterized based on morphological, physiological and molecular data (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and LSU rDNA sequences). The phylogenetic analyses of the isolate revealed that it belongs to the Backusellaceae and is closely related to species of Backusella. The specimen grew better at 25ºC, with no development at 40ºC, and presented conical and cylindrical columellae possessing a central constriction as well as subglobose sporangiospores 7.5–15 × 5.5–10 µm. Based on the evidences of the analyzed datasets, a new species of Backusella is proposed and a taxonomic key for the species of this genus is provided.
What do we know of Roman wall painting technique? Potential confounding factors in ancient paint media analysis
Authors: Cuní Jorge
Published: December 2016

The theory of fresco as the standard painting technique in Roman wall paintings, formulated in the mid-1960s by Paolo Mora and Laura Mora and Paul Philippot, has enjoyed general acceptance among specialists to the present day. However, the fresco theory is based on a series of postulates—such as the feasibility of fresco on pontate, the presence of giornate, or the use of alkali-sensitive pigments—which appear to be unsupported by physical or experimental evidence and which would require further assessment in order to validate the theory. Additionally, chemical analyses of Roman murals have identified the presence of various types of organic binders. A comparative study of these analyses reveals a remarkable difference between results obtained by the different researchers. The clustering of results by research group appears highly unlikely, suggesting the possible presence of confounding factors which could lead to distorted results. These factors might be related both to the difficulty in extracting ancient paint media and the influence of biological contamination. If the extraction method used is not adequate for an ancient binding medium, then part of the binder may not be extracted, producing an incomplete characterization of its composition. The lack of data on both the efficiency of the methods used and the possible influence of microbial contamination in the organic material may cause uncertainty in the degree of reliability of the different results obtained, fomenting uncertainty around the techniques used in ancient paintings as well as the treatments suitable for their conservation. Therefore, in the analysis of ancient paint media, the implementation of a protocol of assessment of both the efficiency of the extraction methods and the influence of biological contamination seems advisable.
England, That Desert Island
Authors: Rugo Daniele
Published: December 2016

A recurring feature of Patrick Keiller’s work is the lack of human presence and activity. Throughout his films, Keiller delivers a vision of England as a desert island, depopulated and unoccupied. Scrutinizing Keiller’s early shorts and feature-length films, this article argues that the absence of human subjects allows the filmmaker to articulate a broader discourse on space, so that the films can be described as “spatial fictions.” Keiller, by aligning his work with various strands of utopian thinking on space—from the surrealists to Henri Lefebvre and the situationists—forces us to think the relationship between cinema and space and offers a geography of absence as the precondition for the imagination of a new space. The article shows how this framework informs Keiller’s visual grammar, including his emphasis on a deliberate scarcity of gestures and the invisibility of the cinematic apparatus. By withdrawing from the production of the image, Keiller suggests that the absence of a sign always functions as the sign of an absence.