bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical review of the effect of water storage reservoirs on organic matter decomposition in rivers
Authors: Mbaka John Gichimu , Mwaniki Mercy Wanjiru
Published: November 2016

Organic matter decomposition is vital in sustaining river food webs. However, little is known about the effect of water storage reservoirs on organic matter decomposition in rivers. In this paper, we reviewed and analyzed 37 studies that investigated the effect of man-made reservoirs on organic matter decomposition in rivers. Most studies focused on decomposition of tree leaf litter (54.1%) and macrophytes litter (43.2%), while fewer studies evaluated decomposition of wood (2.7%). Based on qualitative analysis, the effect of small weirs on organic matter decomposition is local and the effect on most habitat variables is minimal. Mean effect sizes (Hedges’ g) for organic matter decomposition were −1.98 for small weirs, −1.31 for small reservoirs, and −0.66 for large reservoirs. This review demonstrates that, in general, reservoirs have a negative effect on litter decomposition. Litter decomposition, an important ecosystem process, is sensitive to impacts of reservoirs in different types of rivers.
Simultaneous description of low-lying positive and negative parity states in spd, sdf and spdf interacting boson model
Authors: Jafarizadeh M. A. , Majarshin A. Jalili , Fouladi N.
Published: November 2016

In order to investigate negative parity states, it is necessary to consider negative parity-bosons additionally to the usual [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-bosons. The dipole and octupole degrees of freedom are essential to describe the observed low-lying collective states with negative parity. An extended interacting boson model (IBM) that describes pairing interactions among s, p, d and f-boson based on affine [Formula: see text] Lie algebra in the quantum phase transition (QPT) field, such as spd-IBM, sdf-IBM and spdf-IBM, is composed based on algebraic structure. In this paper, a solvable extended transitional Hamiltonian based on affine [Formula: see text] Lie algebra is proposed to describe low-lying positive and negative parity states between the spherical and deformed gamma-unstable shape. Three model of new algebraic solution for even–even nuclei are introduced. Numerical extraction to low-lying energy levels and transition rates within the control parameters of this evaluated Hamiltonian are presented for various [Formula: see text] values. We reproduced the positive and negative parity states and our calculations suggest that the results of spdf-IBM are better than spd-IBM and sdf-IBM in this literature. By reproducing the experimental results, the method based on signature of the phase transition such as level crossing in the lowest excited states is used to provide a better description of Ru isotopes in this transitional region.
CAECP and CRPD: Classification by Aggregating Essential Contrast Patterns, and Contrast Ranked Path Diagrams
Authors: Nishiguchi Mao , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we propose a class predictive model for categorical data; this model uses the contrast patterns (CPs) that characteristically appear in a specific class. In a previous study, Morita and Nishiguchi [(2013). Classification model using contrast patterns. In the 15th International Conference on Enterprise Information Systems, Vol. 1, pp. 336–341] proposed a classification model using contrast patterns (CACP). CACP has been applied to practical data and successfully used to construct effective models [Morita, H, Y Shirai and Y Nakamoto (2013). Analysis method for flash marketing incorporating diversification on purchasing. In Annual Conference of Japan Society for Management Information 2013 Autumn, pp. 329–332 (in Japanese); Nishiguchi, M (2014). Classification model using contrast patterns and GRASP. Journal of Information Assurance & Security, 9(5), 235–243]. In their research, we can see that a large number of CPs are required to construct a high-performance model that can be applied to real business data. In terms of knowledge management, the model must provide highly accurate predictions, and offer high readability for their implementations. Such models provide a significant amount of knowledge. To find such knowledge, it is important to select a necessary subset of CPs and to construct a simple model, while maintaining the performance of the model. Further, we propose a visualisation method called Contrast Ranked Path Diagram (CRPD) that allows us to interpret the relationships among the CPs. In computational experiments, we initially apply our method to well-known benchmark problems. From the results, we show that our proposed model outperforms existing methods in terms of the necessary number of CPs and prediction accuracy. Subsequently, we apply our method to actual data from a Japanese retailer, and show the usefulness of the data for business applications.
Photocatalytic hydrogen production based on a water-soluble porphyrin derivative as sensitizer and a series of Wilkinson type complexes as catalysts
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Athanassios A. , Fasoulakis Efthymios G. , Vardalachaki Eleftheria E. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: November 2016

Herein, we report photochemical hydrogen evolution systems consisting of various rhodium based catalysts with Wilkinson type structures, Zn metalated porphyrins and fluorescein as photosensitizers and triethanolamine as a sacrificial electron donor in acetonitrile/H2O (1:1) solution. Since rhodium complexes 1 and 2 are used for the first time as catalysts in this type of systems, a systematic study was performed in order to elucidate the best conditions for H2 production. Upon visible irradiation hydrogen production was detected and the best results were obtained at pH 7 when dye P3 and catalyst 1 were used with a TON of 61, after 48 h and in the presence of dye P1 and catalyst 2 with a TON of 69, after the 48 h.
The WorldRiskIndex 2016: Reveals the Necessity for Regional Cooperation in Vulnerability Reduction
Authors: Birkmann Joern , Welle Torsten
Published: November 2016

Extreme events do not necessarily trigger extreme impacts. Exposure and vulnerability levels often decide whether hazards and extreme events lead to disasters or severe suffering or not. Measuring and assessing different levels of exposure, vulnerability and risk is therefore crucial in order to inform decision making and to provide guidance for defining priorities for risk reduction and adaptation. The WorldRiskIndex (WRI) is an approach to assess global exposure, vulnerability and risk patterns based on national scale resolution data. The new results of the WRI 2016 underscore that risk of natural hazards and climate change is particularly high in Oceania, Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean as well as Central America. The assessment for 171 countries reveals important improvements in some countries, such as Namibia, however, in other countries such as Brunei, Darussalam and Serbia risk has increased, particularly due to higher susceptibility and lower coping and adaptive capacities to deal with extreme events and natural hazards. The analysis of global patterns of risk shows that not only the physical exposure to extreme events or natural phenomena but also the societal context conditions in countries like Vanuatu, Niger, Haiti and Afghanistan are key drivers of risk and therefore efforts for risk reduction and adaptation at the local and national level need to also address aspects such as poverty and corruption. The persistence of high risk in various countries in Africa and Oceania also suggests that it is likely that these countries might not be able to effectively reduce risks solely on their own but rather need regional approaches and institutions for risk reduction and adaptation.
Inferring Capabilities of Intelligent Agents from Their External Traits
Authors: Knijnenburg Bart P. , Willemsen Martijn C.
Published: November 2016

We investigate the usability of humanlike agent-based interfaces for interactive advice-giving systems. In an experiment with a travel advisory system, we manipulate the “humanlikeness” of the agent interface. We demonstrate that users of the more humanlike agents try to exploit capabilities that were not signaled by the system. This severely reduces the usability of systems that look human but lack humanlikehumanlike capabilities (overestimation effect). We explain this effect by showing that users of humanlike agents form anthropomorphic beliefs (a user's “mental model”) about the system: They act humanlike towards the system and try to exploit typical humanlike capabilities they believe the system possesses. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the mental model users form of an agent-based system is inherently integrated (as opposed to the compositional mental model they form of conventional interfaces): Cues provided by the system do not instill user responses in a one-to-one matter but are instead integrated into a single mental model.
Smart Meter Data Analytics
Authors: Liu Xiufeng , Golab Lukasz , Golab Wojciech , Ilyas Ihab F. , Jin Shichao
Published: November 2016

Smart electricity meters have been replacing conventional meters worldwide, enabling automated collection of fine-grained (e.g., every 15 minutes or hourly) consumption data. A variety of smart meter analytics algorithms and applications have been proposed, mainly in the smart grid literature. However, the focus has been on what can be done with the data rather than how to do it efficiently. In this article, we examine smart meter analytics from a software performance perspective. First, we design a performance benchmark that includes common smart meter analytics tasks. These include offline feature extraction and model building as well as a framework for online anomaly detection that we propose. Second, since obtaining real smart meter data is difficult due to privacy issues, we present an algorithm for generating large realistic datasets from a small seed of real data. Third, we implement the proposed benchmark using five representative platforms: a traditional numeric computing platform (Matlab), a relational DBMS with a built-in machine learning toolkit (PostgreSQL/MADlib), a main-memory column store (“System C”), and two distributed data processing platforms (Hive and Spark/Spark Streaming). We compare the five platforms in terms of application development effort and performance on a multicore machine as well as a cluster of 16 commodity servers.
Size Does Not Make the Difference: 3D/4D Transperineal Sonographic Measurements of the Female Urethra in the Assessment of Urinary Incontinence Subtypes
Authors: Kupec Tomas , Pecks Ulrich , Gräf Charlotte M. , Stickeler Elmar , Meinhold-Heerlein Ivo , Najjari Laila
Published: November 2016

Purpose.The objective was to evaluate the usefulness of transperineal ultrasound in the assessment of the urethral length and urethral lumen by 3D/4D transperineal sonography to discriminate between female patients with subtypes of urinary incontinence.Methods.A total of 150 female patients underwent an examination because of urinary incontinence. 41 patients were diagnosed with urgency urinary incontinence (OAB), 67 patients were diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and 42 patients were in the control group (CTRL). Three diameters of the urethral lumen (proximal (U1), medial (U2), and distal (U3)) and the urethral length were measured. By the assessment of the urethral lumen, the presence of the urethral funneling was evaluated.Results.We found a significant difference in the urethral length and urethral lumen U2 of OAB and SUI versus CTRL. The urethral length was significantly greater (P<0.05) and the urethral lumen was significantly wider (P<0.05) in the patients with urinary incontinence. The incidence of the urethral funneling was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the study groups with urinary incontinence than in the control group.Conclusions.Our results have shown the urethral changes obtained by ultrasound in patients with urinary incontinence, but they are still insufficient to distinguish between subtypes of urinary incontinence.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Robot-Guided, Software Based Transperineal MRI/TRUS Fusion Biopsy of the Prostate in a High Risk Population of Previously Biopsy Negative Men
Authors: Kroenig Malte , Schaal Kathrin , Benndorf Matthias , Soschynski Martin , Lenz Philipp , Krauss Tobias , Drendel Vanessa , Kayser Gian , Kurz Philipp , Werner Martin , Wetterauer Ulrich , Schultze-Seemann Wolfgang , Langer Mathias , Jilg Cordula A.
Published: November 2016

Objective. In this study, we compared prostate cancer detection rates between MRI-TRUS fusion targeted and systematic biopsies using a robot-guided, software based transperineal approach. Methods and Patients. 52 patients received a MRIT/TRUS fusion followed by a systematic volume adapted biopsy using the same robot-guided transperineal approach. The primary outcome was the detection rate of clinically significant disease (Gleason grade ≥ 4). Secondary outcomes were detection rate of all cancers, sampling efficiency and utility, and serious adverse event rate. Patients received no antibiotic prophylaxis. Results. From 52 patients, 519 targeted biopsies from 135 lesions and 1561 random biopsies were generated (total n=2080). Overall detection rate of clinically significant PCa was 44.2% (23/52) and 50.0% (26/52) for target and random biopsy, respectively. Sampling efficiency as the median number of cores needed to detect clinically significant prostate cancer was 9 for target (IQR: 6–14.0) and 32 (IQR: 24–32) for random biopsy. The utility as the number of additionally detected clinically significant PCa cases by either strategy was 0% (0/52) for target and 3.9% (2/52) for random biopsy. Conclusions. MRI/TRUS fusion based target biopsy did not show an advantage in the overall detection rate of clinically significant prostate cancer.
Comparative Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activity of Edible and Ornamental Pomegranate Ethanolic Extracts againstSchistosoma mansoni
Authors: Yones Doaa A. , Badary Dalia M. , Sayed Hesham M. B. , Bayoumi Soad A. H. , Khalifa Azza A. , El-Moghazy Ahmed M.
Published: November 2016

Due to the development of praziquantel (PZQ) schistosomes resistant strains, the discovery of new antischistosomal agents is of high priority in research. This work reported thein vitroandin vivoeffects of the edible and ornamental pomegranate extracts againstSchistosoma mansoni. Leaves and stem bark ethanolic extracts of both dried pomegranates were prepared at 100, 300, and 500 μg/mL forin vitroand 600 and 800 mg/kg forin vivo. Adult wormsSchistosoma mansoniin RPMI-1640 medium forin vitroandS. mansoniinfected mice forin vivotests were obtained from Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt.In vitroactivity was manifested by significant coupled worms separation, reduction of motor activity, lethality, and ultrastructural tegumental alterations in adult worms.In vivoactivity was manifested revealed by significant reduction of hepatic granulomas number and diameter, decreased number of bilharzial eggs in liver tissues, lowered liver inflammatory infiltration, decreased hepatic fibrosis, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. Ethanolic stem bark extract of edible pomegranate exhibited highest antischistosomal activities bothin vitroandin vivo. Therefore, pomegranate showed a good potential to be used as a promising new candidate for the development of new schistosomicidal agents.
Synthesis of Tungsten Oxide Nanorod, Its Application on Textile Material, and Study of Its Functional Properties
Authors: Azeem Abdul , Ashraf Munir , Munir Usman , Sarwar Zahid , Abid Sharjeel , Iqbal Naeem
Published: November 2016

Nanomaterial and its application in textiles are emerging as vast and diverse field due to enhanced functionalized characteristics. This study emphasizes the fabrication of tungsten trioxide nanostructured rods and analyzes its electrostatic and ultraviolet resistance properties. These nanorods are synthesized by hydrothermal method. Through hydrothermal method rod like nanostructures were grown on polyester fabric as it withstands curing temperature easily. The growth mechanism of the film is investigated. Electrostatic analysis of treated polyester fabric was failed but the analysis of seeded solution revealed that it has tunable transmittance modulation under different voltages and repetitive cyclic between the clear and blue states. Ultraviolet resistance of 100% seeded polyester fabric was higher than untreated fabric with respect to increasing concentration of nanorods. Results show that although the seeded solution is perfect, the conductivity of tungsten trioxide cannot be achieved on textiles.
A 66-Year-Old Woman with a Progressive, Longitudinally Extensive, Tract Specific, Myelopathy
Authors: O’Keefe Elizabeth , Schwetye Katherine E. , Nazarian John , Perrin Richard , Schmidt Robert E. , Bucelli Robert
Published: November 2016

A 66-year-old woman presented with progressive lancinating pain and sensory deficits attributable to a myelopathy of unclear etiology. Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging showed a longitudinally extensive T2-hyperintense lesion of the dorsal columns. Comprehensive serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid analyses failed to identify an etiology. Empiric intravenous methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin were of no benefit and serial screens for an occult malignancy were negative. She developed dysesthesias and allodynia affecting her entire body and lost the use of her arms and legs due to severe sensory ataxia that was steadily progressive from onset. She opted against additional aggressive medical management of her condition and passed away on hospice eleven months after symptom onset. Autopsy revealed findings most consistent with polyphasic spinal cord ischemia affecting the dorsal and lateral white matter tracts and, to a lesser extent, adjacent gray matter. The underlying etiology for the progressive vasculopathy remains unknown. Spinal cord ischemia affecting the posterior spinal cord is rare and to our knowledge this case represents the only instance of a progressive spinal cord tractopathy attributable to chronic spinal cord ischemia.
Enhancing Radio Access Network Performance over LTE-A for Machine-to-Machine Communications under Massive Access
Authors: Alsewaidi Fatemah , Doufexi Angela , Kaleshi Dritan
Published: November 2016

The expected tremendous growth of machine-to-machine (M2M) devices will require solutions to improve random access channel (RACH) performance. Recent studies have shown that radio access network (RAN) performance is degraded under the high density of devices. In this paper, we propose three methods to enhance RAN performance for M2M communications over the LTE-A standard. The first method employs a different value for the physical RACH configuration index to increase random access opportunities. The second method addresses a heterogeneous network by using a number of picocells to increase resources and offload control traffic from the macro base station. The third method involves aggregation points and addresses their effect on RAN performance. Based on evaluation results, our methods improved RACH performance in terms of the access success probability and average access delay.
Nonuniform Sparse Data Clustering Cascade Algorithm Based on Dynamic Cumulative Entropy
Authors: Li Ning , Gu Yunxia , Deng Zhongliang
Published: November 2016

A small amount of prior knowledge and randomly chosen initial cluster centers have a direct impact on the accuracy of the performance of iterative clustering algorithm. In this paper we propose a new algorithm to compute initial cluster centers for k-means clustering and the best number of the clusters with little prior knowledge and optimize clustering result. It constructs the Euclidean distance control factor based on aggregation density sparse degree to select the initial cluster center of nonuniform sparse data and obtains initial data clusters by multidimensional diffusion density distribution. Multiobjective clustering approach based on dynamic cumulative entropy is adopted to optimize the initial data clusters and the best number of the clusters. The experimental results show that the newly proposed algorithm has good performance to obtain the initial cluster centers for the k-means algorithm and it effectively improves the clustering accuracy of nonuniform sparse data by about 5%.
Residual Stresses Introduced to Composite Structures due to the Cure Regime: Effect of Environment Temperature and Moisture
Authors: Chowdhury N. , Wang J. , Chiu W. K. , Yan W.
Published: November 2016

Material behaviour of structural components is very important to understand. In fibre reinforced polymer composite materials, this is more difficult in comparison to isotropic materials as they are made up of two constituents: the fibre and the matrix. For aerospace composite materials, the matrix is usually an epoxy resin that cures at a high temperature. This curing regime is known to introduce residual stresses to the composite material as it cools from the high cure temperature. However, how to consider these residual stresses in a structural analysis is still widely debated. In this paper, the authors investigated the offset of thermal residual strains introduced by the cure regime by the swelling of the composite when exposed to moisture.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Undernutrition among Adults with Major Depressive Disorder in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gezahegn Edmialem , Edris Melkie , Dachew Berihun Assefa
Published: November 2016

Background. Undernutrition and major depressive disorder are frequently co-occurring. Patients with impaired mental health are strongly vulnerable to the risks of having involuntary weight loss or deficiency of essential nutrients. However, there is no study which assesses undernutrition among major depressive patients in Ethiopia. Method. A total of 422 clients were included in the study. Structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements were used for collecting the data. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with undernutrition. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of significance. Results. The prevalence of undernutrition was 31.4% [95% CI: 27.2–36.0]. Being in a rural residence [AOR = 1.84, 95% CI (1.18–2.85)], taking multiple medication [AOR = 1.77, 95% CI (1.03–3.05)], taking prescribed diet [AOR = 1.90, 95% CI (1.06–3.41)], and current use of alcohol [AOR = 2.96, 95% CI (1.34–6.55)] were factors significantly associated with undernutrition among depressive patients. Conclusion. The prevalence of undernutrition among adults with major depressive disorder was found to be higher than the general population. Appropriate nutritional education and nutritional assessment are recommended during the course of major depressive disorder.
Low-Volume Brachial Plexus Block Providing Surgical Anesthesia for Distal Arm Surgery Comparing Supraclavicular, Infraclavicular, and Axillary Approach: A Randomized Observer Blind Trial
Authors: Vazin Mojgan , Jensen Kenneth , Kristensen Danja L. , Hjort Mathias , Tanggaard Katrine , Karmakar Manoj K. , Bendtsen Thomas F. , Børglum Jens
Published: November 2016

Background. Distal arm surgery is widely performed under regional anesthesia with brachial plexus block. The preponderance of evidence for the efficacy relies upon injection of local anesthetic in excess of 30 mL. We aimed to compare three different ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block techniques restricting the total volume to 20 mL. Methods. 120 patients were prospectively randomized to ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block with 20 mL ropivacaine 0.75% at either the supraclavicular, infraclavicular, or axillary level. Multiinjection technique was performed with all three approaches. Primary outcome measure was performance time. Results. Performance time and procedural pain were similar between groups. Needle passes and injection numbers were significantly reduced in the infraclavicular group (P<0.01). Nerve visibility was significantly reduced in the axillary group (P=0.01). Success-rate was significantly increased in the supraclavicular versus the axillary group (P<0.025). Total anesthesia-related time was significantly reduced in the supraclavicular compared to the infraclavicular group (P<0.01). Block duration was significantly increased in the infraclavicular group (P<0.05). No early adverse effects occurred. Conclusion. Supraclavicular and infraclavicular blocks exhibited favorable characteristics compared to the axillary block. Supraclavicular brachial plexus block with the multiinjection intracluster technique exhibited significantly reduced total anesthesia-related time and higher success rate without any early adverse events.
Modeling and Experimental Validation for Hammer-Driven Type Penetrators under Horizontal Condition
Authors: Shen Yi , Jiang Shengyuan , Xu Chuanxi , Zhang Weiwei , Wu Xiang
Published: November 2016

This paper proposed a method used to analyze the motion of hammer-driven type penetrators and built a testbed for validating the result of structure optimization of the penetrator in deep space exploration. This method gave a clear understanding of the working principle of the penetrator. The penetrator mainly comprises five components: hammer element, suppressor element, housing element, brake spring, and force spring. Based on the structure of the penetrator, the maximum forward movement of housing element was chosen as optimal object. In order to describe the working process clearly and properly, the working stroke was divided into three phases: unlocking phase, colliding phase, and penetrating phase. In each phase, the displacement and velocity of hammer element, suppressor element, and housing element were described with equation sets when numerically solved. Then, the corresponding parameters of the penetrator were obtained in the testbed with high-speed camera. At last, comparing the parameters obtained by theoretical analysis with that obtained by experiment test with high-speed camera, the perfect ratio of mass element (hammer element, suppressor element, and housing element) and perfect ratio of stiffness of spring element (brake spring and force spring) were obtained.
The Influence of Two Different Foam Creams on Skin Barrier Repair of Foot Xerosis: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled Intra-Individual Study
Authors: Daehnhardt Dorothee , Daehnhardt-Pfeiffer Stephan , Schulte-Walter Judith , Neubourg Thomas , Hanisch Eckhard , Schmetz Christel , Breuer Marion , Fölster-Holst Regina
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Dry skin, or xerosis, is a common condition and a key feature of skin diseases like atopic dermatitis (AD) and ichthyosis vulgaris. Foot xerosis may exist without underlying disease and could be related to very mild forms of AD or ichthyosis vulgaris. The synthesis of important skin lipids (cholesterol, free fatty acids and ceramides) is reduced in xerosis and AD, and reduced lipid synthesis is responsible for a lack of lipids and enzymes in the skin barrier. This slows down reorganisation of the lipid lamellae in the stratum corneum (SC). Methods: Skin barrier integrity was measured by morphometric analysis of the lipid lamellae in the SC after 4 weeks of treatment with a foam cream (active agent vs. placebo). Results: Significant treatment effects were shown after 2 and 4 weeks by an increasing amount of intercellular lipids in the SC. Conclusion: This study shows that a quick reorganisation of the SC lipids initiates a good restoration of the whole skin barrier after 4 weeks of treatment with a foam cream.
Small Bowel Obstruction due to a Giant Meckel's Diverticulum
Authors: Luu Andreas Minh , Meurer Kirsten , Herzog Torsten , Uhl Waldemar , Tannapfel Andrea , Braumann Chris
Published: November 2016

Background: Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, with an average length of 3 cm. Complications occur in 6.4% and most commonly include inflammation and gastrointestinal bleeding. Preoperative diagnosis is demanding and achieved in 4%. Case Report: A 34-year-old otherwise healthy patient presented with an acute abdomen due to small bowel obstruction. Computed tomography scan could not identify the underlying cause. Emergency laparotomy was performed, and a torqued giant Meckel's diverticulum measuring 17 cm was found as the underlying cause for the small bowel obstruction. Resection of the affected ileum segment and ileo-ileal reconstruction were performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. Conclusion: In extremely rare cases, small bowel obstruction in an otherwise healthy patient might be caused by torsion of a symptomatic giant Meckel's diverticulum.
Targeted Therapy of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Rieke Damian T. , Klinghammer Konrad , Keilholz Ulrich
Published: November 2016

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common solid cancers worldwide. It is mainly caused by exposure to tobacco smoke and alcohol as well as infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV). The prognosis is poor, especially once it recurs or metastasizes. Current therapeutic options include surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are so far the only targeted agents that have been approved in head and neck cancer. Primary or secondary resistance is frequent or will eventually develop. Several driver mutations and other genomic aberrations have been described in HNSCC including EGFR overexpression and amplification. Yet, no predictive biomarkers for the application of EGFR inhibitors have been identified. Further targeted agents are in development for HNSCC, of which inhibitors of the PI3K pathway are the closest to clinical application. In recent years, the incidence of HPV-driven HNSCC has risen in Western countries. HPV-positive and -negative HNSCC are distinct molecular tumor entities, and consequences for targeted therapies have been discussed. This review looks at approved and investigational targeted treatment strategies as well as potential predictive biomarkers such as the HPV status to guide treatment.
The Association between Premature Adrenarche and Cardiovascular Risk May Be Greater than Expected
Authors: Çelik Nurullah , Alp Hayrullah , Çamtosun Emine , Alp Esma , Çelik Sibel , Berk Erhan
Published: November 2016

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the cardiovascular risk of children with premature adrenarche (PA). Methods: A total of 75 children (44 with PA and 31 control subjects) aged 6-10 years were included in the study. Their metabolic, anthropometric, and echocardiographic parameters were recorded and compared. Results: Triglyceride, DHEA-SO4, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels were significantly higher in the PA group (p = 0.04, p = 0.002, and p = 0.01, respectively). The echocardiographic assessments revealed that the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) (p < 0.001), left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) ejection times (p = 0.031 and p = 0.035, respectively), and LV and RV Tei index measurements (p = 0.033 and p = 0.006, respectively) were significantly higher in the PA group than in the control group, whereas the E/e' ratio of the mitral lateral annulus was significantly lower in the PA group (p = 0.006). Additionally, carotid intima-media thickness and epicardial adipose tissue measurements were significantly increased in the PA group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Early atherosclerotic changes and subclinical impairment of cardiac function were observed in children with PA. It is possible that these children are on a course for early cardiovascular disease.
Self-Reported Physical Activity, Quality of Life, and Psychological Status in Relation to Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentration in Patients Treated with Hemodialysis
Authors: Grzegorzewska Alicja E. , Izdebska Agnieszka , Niepolski Leszek , Warchoł Wojciech , Jagodziński Paweł P.
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Vitamin D status is announced among factors that may influence physical performance and mental health. Our aim was to evaluate self-reported physical activity, quality of life, psychiatric functioning, and affects with respect to plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations in HD patients. Methods: The study was carried out in HD patients not receiving vitamin D supplements (n = 112). IPAQ-L, QLI-D, GHQ-28, and PANAS were used in psychological evaluations. Plasma 25(OH)D concentration was determined by a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Results: Plasma 25(OH)D level was suboptimal in all patients (14.6 ± 4.1 ng/ml). Adjusted correlates of 25(OH)D concentration included the GG genotype of GC rs7041 (β±SE: 1.77± 0.70, P=0.014), female sex (β±SE: -2.19±0.75, P=0.004), and treatment with high flux HD (β±SE: 2.59±0.69, P=0.0003). In adjusted analyses, circulating 25(OH)D showed the independent association with total activity related to domestic and gardening domain (β±SE: 53.2±23.8, P=0.028), and with moderate-intensity activities (β±SE: 54.9±27.4, P=0.048), but not with any of quality of life, psychiatric functioning, or affects measures. Conclusions: Vitamin D status is independently positively associated with physical activity in HD patients. Quality of life and mental health do not seem to be associated with circulating 25(OH)D under condition of its suboptimal levels.
Olmesartan Prevents Microalbuminuria in db/db Diabetic Mice Through Inhibition of Angiotensin II/p38/SIRT1-Induced Podocyte Apoptosis
Authors: Gu Junhui , Yang Ming , Qi Na , Mei Shuqin , Chen Jiejian , Song Shuwei , Jing Ying , Chen Meihan , He Liangliang , Sun Lijun , Hu Huimin , Li Lin , Wüthrich Rudolf P. , Wu Ming , Mei Changlin
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Blockage of the renin-angiotensin II system (RAS) prevents or delays albuminuria in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory mechanism of the angiotensin receptor blocker olmesartan on albuminuria in a murine model of diabetic nephropathy. Methods: Male db/db diabetic mice were fed with placebo or 20 mg/kg olmesartan by daily gavage for 12 weeks. Conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes were treated with glucose, angiotensin II, olmesartan or p38 inhibitor s8307 in different experimental conditions after differentiation. Results: Olmesartan reduced albuminuria in db/db mice without change in body weight and glycemia. The increase of apoptotic cells and decrease of podocytes in the diabetic glomerulus were prevented by olmesartan. Moreover, olmesartan restored silent mating type information regulation 1 (SIRT1) expression in diabetic glomeruli. Furthermore, olmesartan treatment suppressed p38 phosphorylation but did not restore adenosine 5‘-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation in the diabetic glomerulus. In vitro study revealed that olmesartan prevented angiotensin II/p38/SIRT1 induced podocyte apoptosis, but it only slightly prevented high glucose/AMPK/SIRT1 induced podocyte apoptosis. In addition, the p38 inhibitor s8307 reversed SIRT1 expression and angiotensin II induced podocyte apoptosis. Conclusions: Olmesartan reduced albuminuria in diabetic nephropathy through inhibiting angiotensin II/p38/SIRT1 triggered podocyte apoptosis.
Rate and Predictors of Interval Esophageal and Gastric Cancers after Esophagogastroduodenoscopy in the United States
Authors: Wang Yize R. , Loftus, Jr. Edward V. , Judge Thomas A. , Peikin Steven R.
Published: November 2016

Background and Aims: In the United States, little is known about the rates of interval upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer (possibly missed out) after an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is performed. Data from non-US studies reported interval cancer rates of 7-26%. We aimed to study the rate and predictors of interval upper GI cancers in the United States. Methods: Using the random 5% sample of Medicare beneficiaries in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare linked database, we identified patients diagnosed with esophageal or gastric cancer during 2000-2007. EGD performed within 36 months prior to cancer diagnosis was identified using CPT codes. Cancers diagnosed 6-36 months after EGD were defined as interval (vs. detected) cancers. The chi-square test and the multivariate logistic model were used in statistical analysis. Results: Of 751 patients diagnosed with upper GI cancer, 52 patients (6.9%) were diagnosed with interval cancers 6-36 months after EGD. The rate of interval cancers was 5.5% (31/568) for gastroenterologists and 11.5% (21/183) for non-gastroenterologists (p < 0.01). In multivariate logistic regression, EGDs performed by gastroenterologists (vs. non-gastroenterologists: OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.25-0.83) and those in inpatient setting (vs. outpatient: OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.28-0.997) were associated with a lower likelihood of interval cancers. Sensitivity analyses limited to outpatient EGDs or interval cancers 6-30 months after EGDs led to similar results. Conclusions: The rate of interval cancers after EGD is the same as the rate of colonoscopy among Medicare patients in the United States. EGDs performed by gastroenterologists and in in-patient settings were associated with a lesser likelihood of interval cancers.
The HDM2 (MDM2) Inhibitor NVP-CGM097 Inhibits Tumor Cell Proliferation and Shows Additive Effects with 5-Fluorouracil on the p53-p21-Rb-E2F1 Cascade in the p53wild type Neuroendocrine Tumor Cell Line GOT1
Authors: Reuther Clemens , Heinzle Vera , Nölting Svenja , Herterich Sabine , Hahner Stefanie , Halilovic Ensar , Jeay Sébastien , Wuerthner Jens U. , Aristizabal Prada Elke Tatjana , Spöttl Gerald , Maurer Julian , Auernhammer Christoph J.
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: The tumor suppressor p53 is depleted in many tumor cells by the E3 ubiquitin ligase mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) through MDM2/p53 interaction. A novel target for inhibiting p53 degradation and for causing reexpression of p53wild type is inhibition of MDM2. The small molecule NVP-CGM097 is a novel MDM2 inhibitor. We investigated MDM2 inhibition as a target in neuroendocrine tumor cells in vitro. Methods: Human neuroendocrine tumor cell lines from the pancreas (BON1), lung (NCI-H727), and midgut (GOT1) were incubated with the MDM2 inhibitor NVP-CGM097 (Novartis) at concentrations from 4 to 2,500 nM. Results: While p53wild type GOT1 cells were sensitive to NVP-CGM097, p53mutated BON1 and p53mutated NCI-H727 cells were resistant to NVP-CGM097. Incubation of GOT1 cells with NVP-CGM097 at 100, 500, and 2,500 nM for 96 h caused a significant decline in cell viability to 84.9 ± 9.2% (p < 0.05), 77.4 ± 6.6% (p < 0.01), and 47.7 ± 9.2% (p < 0.01). In a Western blot analysis of GOT1 cells, NVP-CGM097 caused a dose-dependent increase in the expression of p53 and p21 tumor suppressor proteins and a decrease in phospho-Rb and E2F1. Experiments of co-incubation of NVP-CGM097 with 5-fluorouracil, temozolomide, or everolimus each showed additive antiproliferative effects in GOT1 cells. NVP-CGM097 and 5-fluorouracil increased p53 and p21 expression in an additive manner. Conclusions: MDM2 inhibition seems a promising novel therapeutic target in neuroendocrine tumors harboring p53wild type. Further investigations should examine the potential role of MDM2 inhibitors in neuroendocrine tumor treatment.
Uso da Simulação Realística como Mediadora do Processo Ensino-Aprendizagem: Relato de Experiência da Farmácia Universitária da Universidade de São Paulo
Authors: Storpirtis Sílvia , Nicoletti Maria Aparecida , Aguiar Patrícia Melo
Published: November 2016

O objetivo do presente artigo é apresentar a experiência da Farmácia Universitária da Universidade de São Paulo (Farmusp) no uso da simulação realística durante o Estágio Curricular Obrigatório em Práticas Farmacêuticas oferecido aos alunos da Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas da USP (FCF-USP). Dentre as atividades desenvolvidas, os alunos elaboram um vídeo, no qual simulam uma situação clínica vivenciada durante o estágio, relacionada com o cuidado farmacêutico prestado aos pacientes atendidos na Farmusp. Essa atividade tem contribuído para a formação dos alunos, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de habilidades e atitudes
Chemical Engineering and Operations Research: A Passing Flirtation or Marriage?
Authors: Joly Marcel , Gut Jorge Andey Wilhelms
Published: November 2016

Desde a década de 1980, a parceria tecnológica entre a Petrobras e a Universidade de São Paulo (USP) na área da automação industrial tem se revelado prolífica em via dupla. Contribuições científicas e tecnológicas relevantes têm sido continuamente produzidas no âmbito do domínio científico da Engenharia Química. Entre os mais recentes resultados desta fecunda parceria está a criação da disciplina Otimização Aplicada à Gestão de Operações da Indústria Química, a qual agora compõe o currículo do curso de graduação em Engenharia Química da Escola Politécnica da USP na modalidade de disciplina optativa oferecida no último período acadêmico. Baseada em um programa de capacitação tecnológica voltado ao ensino de fundamentos de Pesquisa Operacional (PO) a engenheiros de processamento da Petrobras dentro do ambiente industrial e em um curso de pós-graduação em PO, esta nova disciplina foi idealizada e estruturada com apoio do Centro de Excelência em Tecnologias de Aplicação em Automação Industrial (Cetai – Petrobras) e tem se revelado um sucesso inegável entre os estudantes de Engenharia Química da USP. A importância deste resultado – aprendizagem de PO em nível de graduação – é aqui discutida à luz do papel crucial que tecnologias de apoio à tomada de decisões assistida por computador possui atualmente para a operação integrada da indústria química. Mais importante ainda é o fato de que a capacitação em PO pode ser entendida como uma etapa prévia, porém valiosa, para alavancar o desenvolvimento de pesquisa interdisciplinar de fronteira no âmbito da Engenharia Química moderna
Monitoria na Disciplina “Técnica Cirúrgica e Cirurgia Experimental”
Authors: Maximiano Linda Ferreira , Nakahira Evelyn Sue , Otoch José Pinhata , Pereira Paulo Roberto Bueno
Published: November 2016

Na monitoria da disciplina Técnica Cirúrgica e Cirurgia Experimental, alunos que foram aprovados no curso participam do ensino dos atuais discentes em atividades práticas. Um questionário de resposta voluntária inquiriu a motivação para o exercício da monitoria e a avaliação dos monitores sobre a atividade. Aceitaram participar dezenove monitores, de 2014 a 2015. Para 94,7% dos que responderam ao questionário, a monitoria atingiu o esperado ou o além do esperado, e todos indicam a monitoria a outros alunos da faculdade. Isso a caracteriza como fator positivo na formação dos participantes dessa atividade acadêmica. Essa boa avaliação associa-se ao maior aprendizado do aluno monitor sobre o conteúdo da disciplina, à melhoria da comunicação interpessoal e à maior vivência com a cirurgia que a monitoria proporciona. Aos alunos da disciplina, o ganho ao utilizar essa estratégia didática consiste na maior empatia que os monitores têm com aqueles que cursam a disciplina em comparação com os docentes
Inovações Didáticas na Disciplina Introdução ao Ensino de Biologia: Conversas entre Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão
Authors: Bizerra Alessandra , Haddad Hamilton , Ursi Suzana
Published: November 2016

A formação de professores ainda é um desafio para universidades e outros centros formadores. Tendo em vista uma de suas principais metas, a de garantir maior encadeamento entre as unidades de formação dos cursos para professores, o Instituto de Biociências da Universidade de São Paulo desenvolveu seu Projeto Pedagógico, buscando garantir disciplinas e ações comuns às habilitações de bacharelado e licenciatura de seu curso de Ciências Biológicas. Uma das disciplinas oferecidas no Núcleo Básico aborda aspectos introdutórios ao ensino de Biologia e busca articular as dimensões do tripé universitário: ensino, pesquisa e extensão. Neste relato, serão apresentados a estrutura básica de tal disciplina, os principais recursos e estratégias utilizados e as ferramentas de avaliação
Rebirth
Authors: Labeija Kia
Published: November 2016

Kia Labeija was born and raised in the heart of New York City’s theatre district, Hellz Kitchen. Her multidisciplinary practice explores the intersections of community, politics, fine arts, and activism. Her digital portraits offer theatrical and cinematic re-imaginings of nonfictional events. As a member of the iconic House of Labeija and an active member of NYC’s ballroom scene, she offers the art of Voguing as both a performance and community-based practice. Labeija speaks publicly on the subject of HIV/AIDS as an advocate for the underrepresented living with HIV, including long-term survivors, women, minorities, and children born with the virus.
Practical Jobs for Utopian Artists (From the “Imaginary Activism” Series)
Authors: Gómez-Peña Guillermo , Tramposch Emma
Published: November 2016

As the “alternative” art world collapses due to funding cuts, critical artists engaged in socially responsible projects outside of the museum are faced with a great paradox: the work is more necessary than ever but the means and resources for it are becoming scarcer. We must find “utopian jobs” for critical artists operating outside of the capital art world.
Social Performance Studies: An Evolving Process of Endless Dualities
Authors: Sun William Huizhu
Published: November 2016

Performance studies can be divided into aesthetic and social performance studies (SPS). SPS is about all performances offstage. It has been developed in China since 1999 to cover two main areas: analysis and training of non-theatre professionals’ performances; and collective, community-building performances.
Towards a New Cutting Edge: Where Avantgarde Meets Community Art
Authors: van Erven Eugene
Published: November 2016

A cursory look at different examples of activist and community-based performances in Singapore, Colombia, and more detailed analyses of two recent participatory theatre productions in the Czech Republic and the Netherlands reveal that models that distinguish community art from avantgarde art in the East and the West resist categorization.
Performance and Politics: President Obama’s Dramatic Reelection in 2012
Authors: Alexander Jeffrey C.
Published: November 2016

Contemporary elections are less about rational policies or even just desserts than they are melodramatic performances about who wears the white and who the black hat. Politics is about performing good versus evil in the dangerously shifting currents that create contemporary social scenes. Economics and poll numbers had Obama an underdog in 2012. How were his performances so felicitous as to prove them a lie?
Sara (the smuggler): Choreographing a Transparent Archive
Authors: Nicely Megan V.
Published: November 2016

How does one choreograph a life? Sara (the smuggler) is an hour-long embodied monologue of Bay Area dance luminary and Contraband founder Sara Shelton Mann, conceived and crafted by Keith Hennessey for Mann’s 70th birthday. The work shares not an individual artist’s life so much as how life’s choreography writes an archive to be navigated, survived, and lived through.