bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Seismic Vulnerability of Steel and RC Moment Buildings Using HAZUS and Statistical Methodologies
Authors: Mansouri Iman , Hu Jong Wan , Shakeri Kazem , Shahbazi Shahrokh , Nouri Bahareh
Published: September 2017

Designer engineers have always the serious challenge regarding the choice of the kind of structures to use in the areas with significant seismic activities. Development of fragility curve provides an opportunity for designers to select a structure that will have the least fragility. This paper presents an investigation into the seismic vulnerability of both steel and reinforced concrete (RC) moment frames using fragility curves obtained by HAZUS and statistical methodologies. Fragility curves are employed for several probability parameters. Fragility curves are used to assess several probability parameters. Furthermore, it examines whether the probability of the exceedence of the damage limit state is reduced as expected. Nonlinear dynamic analyses of five-, eight-, and twelve-story frames are carried out using Perform 3D. The definition of damage states is based on the descriptions provided by HAZUS, which gives the limit states and the associated interstory drift limits for structures. The fragility curves show that the HAZUS procedure reduces probability of damage, and this reduction is higher for RC frames. Generally, the RC frames have higher fragility compared to steel frames.
Should Serum Protein Electrophoresis Be a Surrogate for Liver Biopsy in Some Cases of Alpha1 Antitrypsin Deficiency?
Authors: Hokama Newton Key , Moraes Marcelo Padovani de Toledo , Hokama Paula de Oliveira Montandon , Romeiro Fernando Gomes
Published: September 2017

Most patients with alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency do not receive this diagnosis until developing severe complications, in particular when respiratory symptoms are absent. This is a reason for making alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency a possible diagnosis among patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis or other conditions of liver disease without a clear etiology. In this report, a case of cryptogenic cirrhosis is presented, showing the role of serum protein electrophoresis in the diagnosis, which was made before liver biopsy. Therefore, the possibility of using a typical pattern of serum protein electrophoresis as a surrogate for liver biopsy in alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency is discussed.
A Novel Scheme with FG-FFT for Analysis of Electromagnetic Scattering from Large Objects
Authors: Xie Jia-Ye , Yu Guang , Pang Li-Li , Kong Wei-Bin , Huang Zhi-Xiang
Published: September 2017

The replacement values to the singularity of fitting Green’s function are intensively researched in Fitting Green’s function Fast Fourier Transformation (FG-FFT). As is shown in the research, the accuracy of fitting Green’s function of near element is affected by different replacement values. The experiments show that an appropriate replacement value can improve the accuracy of fitting Green’s function of near element, and it is called the optimal replacement value in this paper. In the case of application of the proposed scheme to FG-FFT, the number of the near correction elements is significantly reduced. Therefore, the optimal replacement scheme can dramatically reduce the memory requirement and computing time in FG-FFT. The experiments show that, compared with traditional random replacement schemes, the optimal replacement scheme can reduce the number of the near correction elements by about 55%~60% and greatly improve the computational efficiency of FG-FFT.
Exploring the Limitations of Peripheral Blood Transcriptional Biomarkers in Predicting Influenza Vaccine Responsiveness
Authors: Marchetti Luca , Siena Emilio , Lauria Mario , Maffione Denise , Pacchiani Nicola , Priami Corrado , Medini Duccio
Published: September 2017

Systems biology has been recently applied to vaccinology to better understand immunological responses to the influenza vaccine. Particular attention has been paid to the identification of early signatures capable of predicting vaccine immunogenicity. Building from previous studies, we employed a recently established algorithm for signature-based clustering of expression profiles, SCUDO, to provide new insights into why blood-derived transcriptome biomarkers often fail to predict the seroresponse to the influenza virus vaccination. Specifically, preexisting immunity against one or more vaccine antigens, which was found to negatively affect the seroresponse, was identified as a confounding factor able to decouple early transcriptome from later antibody responses, resulting in the degradation of a biomarker predictive power. Finally, the broadly accepted definition of seroresponse to influenza virus vaccine, represented by the maximum response across the vaccine-targeted strains, was compared to a composite measure integrating the responses against all strains. This analysis revealed that composite measures provide a more accurate assessment of the seroresponse to multicomponent influenza vaccines.
Comparison between the Hypolipidemic Activity of Parsley and Carob in Hypercholesterolemic Male Rats
Authors: El Rabey Haddad A. , Al-Seeni Madeha N. , Al-Ghamdi Habibah B.
Published: September 2017

Hypercholesterolemia is commonly associated with obesity that leads to heart diseases and diabetes. The hepatocardioprotective activity of parsley and carob methanol extract was tested in hypercholesterolemic male rats. Twenty-four male albino rats were divided into four groups (n=6). Group 1 was the negative control group fed with fat rich diet, group 2 (G2) was hypercholesterolemic rats fed with fat rich diet with 2% cholesterol, and group 3 and group 4 (G3 and G4) were hypercholesterolemic rats supplemented with 2% cholesterol and cotreated with 20% w/w parsley seed methanol extract and 20% w/w carob legume methanol extract, respectively. The experiment was conducted for eight weeks. The positive hypercholesterolemic rats showed significant increase in serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase-mb, liver function enzymes, and decrease in the high density lipoproteins (HDL). Moreover, heart and liver tissues were ameliorated and nearly restored their normal appearance. It could be concluded that both parsley and carob extracts supplementations have a protective effect against hyperlipidemia and improved the histological alteration in heart and liver tissues. The methanol extract of parsley appeared to be more efficient than that of carob in lowering hypercholesterolemia.
Effect of Wenxin Granules on Gap Junction and MiR-1 in Rats with Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wu Aiming , Zhao Mingjing , Lou Lixia , Zhai Jianying , Zhang Dongmei , Zhu Haiyan , Gao Yonghong , Shang Hongcai , Chai Limin
Published: September 2017

Myocardial infarction (MI) patients are at high risk of potential lethal arrhythmia. Gap junction and microRNA-1 (miR-1) are both arrhythmia generating conditions. The present study investigated whether Wenxin Granules (Wenxin-Keli, WXKL) could prevent potential lethal arrhythmia by improving gap junctions and miR-1 following MI. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into control, model, metoprolol, low dose WXKL, and high dose WXKL groups. The MI rat model was created by coronary artery ligation. Treatments were administrated intragastrically to the rats for 4 weeks. Conventional transmission electron microscopy was performed to observe the ultrastructure of gap junctions. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were used to detect the expression of miR-1, protein kinase C (PKC), and related proteins. Additionally, a programmatic electrophysiological stimulation test was performed to detect the ventricular fibrillation threshold (VFT). WXKL protected the ultrastructure of the gap junctions and their constituent Cx43 by regulating miR-1 and PKC mediated signal transduction and increased the VFT significantly in the rat MI model. The results suggested that WXKL is an effective alternative medicine to prevent potentially lethal arrhythmia following MI.
Study of the Penetration and Diffusion Characteristics of Inorganic Solidified Foam in Rock Fractures
Authors: Lu Yi , Wang Tao , Ye Qing
Published: September 2017

To explore the penetration and diffusion law in coal and rock fractures when inorganic solidified foam (ISF) is used to prevent coal fire, the penetration experiment was conducted; the results showed that the penetration pressure fluctuates within a certain range and decreases with the diffusion distance. In theXYplane, the diffusion pattern presents an ellipsoid shape, and the diffusion area becomes increasingly large over time; in theXZplane, the foam fluid penetration changes from dense to loose in theXdirection and it does not undergo downward penetration and diffuses via its own weight in theZdirection; in theYZplane, it is loose on the left and dense on the right. The viscosity of ISF was tested and then the time-varying formula was fitted. The formula of the effective diffusion radius for foam fluid diffusing in the fracture channel was determined theoretically. The permeability coefficient and other related parameters were calculated in terms of the penetration pressure and diffusion time of two monitoring points. At last, the prediction formula of effective diffusion distance of foam fluid was verified with the remaining seven monitoring points and all the relative error of monitoring is within 10%.
Association between Antihypertensive Drug Use and the Incidence of Cognitive Decline and Dementia: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Xu Guangli , Bai Feng , Lin Xin , Wang Qiongying , Wu Qiang , Sun Shougang , Jiang Cheng , Liang Qiang , Gao Bingren
Published: September 2017

Background.Antihypertensive drug use is inconsistently associated with the risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive impairment, and cognitive decline. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of available prospective cohort studies to summarize the evidence on the strength of these relationships.Methods.Three electronic databases including MedLine, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify studies from inception to April 2017. Only prospective cohort studies that reported effect estimates with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive impairment, and cognitive decline for antihypertensive drug use versus not using antihypertensive drugs were included.Results.We included 10 prospective cohort studies reporting data on 30,895 individuals. Overall, participants who received antihypertensive drugs had lower incidence of dementia (relative risk [RR]: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.75–0.99;p=0.033), while there was no significant effect on the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (RR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.64–1.09;p=0.154), cognitive impairment (RR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.57–1.38;p=0.596), and cognitive decline (RR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.86–1.43;p=0.415). Further, the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease might be affected by antihypertensive drug use in participants with specific characteristics.Conclusions.Antihypertensive drug use was associated with a significantly reduced risk of dementia, but not with the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive impairment, and cognitive decline.
Location of Facility Based on Simulated Annealing and “ZKW” Algorithms
Authors: Dong Yukun , Wang Jinyu , Chen Fenghua , Hu Yong , Deng Yong
Published: September 2017

To cope with the facility location problem, a method based on simulated annealing and “ZKW” algorithm is proposed in this article. The method is applied to some real cases, which aims to deploy video content server at appropriate nodes in an undirected graph to satisfy the requirements of the consumption nodes with the least cost. Simulated annealing can easily find the optimum with less reliance on the initial solution. “ZKW” algorithm can find the shortest path and calculate the least cost from the server node to consumption node quickly. The results of three kinds of cases illustrate the efficiency of our method, which can obtain the optimum within 90 s. A comparison with Dijkstra and Floyd algorithms shows that, by using “ZKW” algorithm, the method can have large iteration with limited time. Therefore, the proposed method is able to solve this video content server location problem.
The Efficacy of Single-Dose versus Double-Dose Praziquantel Treatments onSchistosoma mansoniInfections: Its Implication on Undernutrition and Anaemia among Primary Schoolchildren in Two On-Shore Communities, Northwestern Tanzania
Authors: Munisi David Z. , Buza Joram , Mpolya Emmanuel A. , Angelo Teckla , Kinung’hi Safari M.
Published: September 2017

Administering more than one treatment may increase Praziquantel cure and egg reduction rates, thereby hastening achievement of schistosomiasis transmission control. A total of 431S. mansoni-infected schoolchildren were randomized to receive either a single or repeated 40 mg/kg Praziquantel dose. Heights, weights, and haemoglobin levels were determined using a stadiometer, weighing scale, and HemoCue, respectively. At 8 weeks, cure rate was higher on repeated dose (93.10%) compared to single dose (68.68%) (p<0.001). The egg reduction rate was higher on repeated dose (97.54%) compared to single dose (87.27%) (p=0.0062). Geometric mean egg intensity was lower among those on repeated dose (1.30 epg) compared to single dose (3.18 epg) (p=0.036) but not at 5 (p>0.05) and 8 (p>0.05) months with no difference in reinfection rate. No difference in the prevalence of stunting was observed between the two treatment regimens (p>0.05) at 8 months, but there was an increase in the prevalence of wasting among those on repeated dose (p<0.001). There was an increase in the mean haemoglobin levels at 8 months with no difference between the two arms (p>0.05). To achieve reduction of transmission intensity and disease control in highly endemic areas, repeated treatments alone may not be sufficient. This trial was registered withPACTR201601001416338.
Investigation of the Relationship between Psychological Variables and Sleep Quality in Students of Medical Sciences
Authors: Najafi Kalyani Majid , Jamshidi Nahid , Salami Javad , Pourjam Elahe
Published: September 2017

Objectives. Students of medical sciences are exposed to many emotional and mental problems. In light of the importance of sleep quality in learning and liveliness, this study was conducted to examine the relationship between psychological variables (stress, anxiety, and depression) and sleep quality of students. Design. This research is a cross-sectional analytical study, where all students studying at Fasa University of Medical Sciences in 2012-2013 year were selected. To examine the students’ stress, anxiety, and depression values, the standardized 21-item DASS-21 was used, and to examine their sleep quality, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used. Results. The results of the study demonstrated that 73% of the students have moderate and severe stress, and 46.4% of them have PSQ scores ≥ 5. The students’ mean sleep quality score was 4.65±2.37, and their stress score was 8.09±5.14. A statistically significant relationship was found between the students’ stress levels and sleep quality (P<0.001). Conclusion. The high stress levels decrease students’ sleep quality. High stress levels and also the significant relationship between stress value and decrease in students’ sleep quality call for more attention to and care for students’ emotional and mental issues and timely proper interference on the part of authorities.
Ratiometric Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide Utilizing Conformational Change in Fluorescent Boronic Acid Polymers
Authors: Takeshima Kan , Mizuno Kanako , Nakahashi Hitoshi , Aoki Hiroshi , Kanekiyo Yasumasa
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate that the copolymers containing boronic acid and pyrene units can be utilized for the fluorometric sensing of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in aqueous solutions. The copolymer exists in a relatively extended conformation in the absence of H2O2, whereas the polymer chain is contracted by the reaction of boronic acid moieties with H2O2 to form phenol groups. This conformational change induces aggregation of the originally isolated pyrene groups. As a result, relative intensity of excimer emission with respect to monomer emission increases with H2O2 concentration. Accordingly, the present methodology enables us to measure H2O2 by means of ratiometric fluorescence change in the range of 0–30 μM.
Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Technology for Oral Patient-Controlled Analgesia, thePCoA® AcuteDevice, for Hospitalized Patients with Postoperative Pain, in Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Wirz Stefan , Conrad Stefan , Shtrichman Ronit , Schimo Kai , Hoffmann Eva
Published: September 2017

Background.Acute postoperative pain delays recovery and increases morbidity and mortality. Traditional administration of postoperative analgesics by nurses is often inefficient. The present study evaluated the safety, efficacy, and usability of a novel, patient-controlled analgesic dispenser, the PCoA Acute.Methods.A controlled pilot study was conducted at three medical centers. Patients scheduled for elective surgery were enrolled into two groups, both taking oral analgesics: a control group (n=43), opioids dispensed by nurses, and a test group (n=27), opioids dispensed via the PCoA Acute. Pill intake data were recorded. Pain ratings at rest and during movement were surveyed.Results.No severe adverse events were recorded. Average pill intake time was reduced from 8 : 58 minutes in the control group to 1 : 17 minutes in the test group (Pvalue < 0.05). The test group took 67% more pills than the control group, indicating enhanced compliance. Pain scores were significantly lower for patients in the test group (Pvalue < 0.05). Over 90% of PCoA Acute users were satisfied with its use.Conclusions.The study confirmed that PCoA Acute is safe and effective. It is well accepted by patients and medical staff. Its use can optimize pain medication administration.
The Extended Fractional (DξαG/G)‐Expansion Method and Its Applications to a Space‐Time Fractional Fokas Equation
Authors: Zhao Yunmei , He Yinghui
Published: September 2017

Based on a fractional subequation and the properties of the modified Riemann‐Liouville fractional derivative, we propose a new analytical method named extended fractional ‐expansion method for seeking traveling wave solutions of fractional partial differential equations. To illustrate the effectiveness of the method, we discuss a space‐time fractional Fokas equation, many types of exact analytical solutions are obtained, and the solutions include hyperbolic function and trigonometric and negative exponential solutions.
The Effect of Mechanical Ventilation on TASK-1 Expression in the Brain in a Rat Model
Authors: Na Buqi , Zhang Hong , Wang Guangfa , Dai Li , Xia Guoguang
Published: September 2017

Background and Objective. TWIK-related acid-sensitive potassium channel 1 (TASK-1) is closely related to respiratory central control and neuronal injury. We investigated the effect of MV on TASK-1’s functions and explored the mechanism using a rat model.Methods. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to three groups:(1)high tidal volume (HVt): MV for four hours with Vt at 10 mL/kg;(2)low Vt (LVt): MV for four hours with Vt at 5 mL/kg;(3)basal (BAS): anesthetized and unventilated animals. We measured lung histology and plasma and brain levels of proteins (IL-6, TNF-α, and S-100B) and determined TASK-1 levels in rat brainstems as a marker of respiratory centre activity.Results. The LISs (lung injury scores) were significantly higher in the HVt group. Brain inflammatory cytokines levels were different to those in serum. TASK-1 levels were significantly lower in the MV groups (P=0.002) and the HVt group tended to have a lower level of TASK-1 than the LVt group.Conclusion. MV causes not only lung injury, but also brain injury. MV affects the regulation of the respiratory centre, perhaps causing damage to it. Inflammation is probably not the main mechanism of ventilator-related brain injury.
Effect of Physical Activity on Cognitive Development: Protocol for a 15-Year Longitudinal Follow-Up Study
Authors: Zhao Guanggao , Quan Minghui , Su Liqiang , Zhang Hanbin , Zhang Jiayi , Zhang Jinming , Fang Hui , Cao Zhen-Bo , Zhu Zheng , Niu Zhanbin , Wang Ru , Chen Peijie
Published: September 2017

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between physical activity as assessed by accelerometers and cognitive development across the human age ranges (from children and adolescents to adults). Additionally, this study seeks to explore whether physical activity contributes to cognitive development via modification of plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In the study, 500 preschool children (3.5–5.5 years old) are taking part in 6 triennial assessment waves over the span of 15 years. At each wave, participant measures included (a) 7-day physical activity monitoring using ActiGraph’s GT3X accelerometers, (b) the evaluation of cognitive development, (c) anthropometric and physical fitness assessments, (d) plasma IGF-1 and BDNF concentrations, and (e) retrospective questionnaires. Linear regression models are used to examine the effect of physical activity on cognitive development; plasma IGF-1 and BDNF concentrations are considered as mediators into data analyses. The results of the study may help to inform future health interventions that utilize physical activity as a means to improve cognitive development in children, adolescents, and adults. Additionally, the study may assist in determining whether the putative effects occur via modification of plasma IGF-1 or BDNF concentrations.
Theoretical and Case Studies of Interval Nonprobabilistic Reliability for Tailing Dam Stability
Authors: Dong Longjun , Sun Daoyuan , Li Xibing
Published: September 2017

The stability of the operation of a tailing dam is affected by reservoir water level, phreatic line, and mechanical parameters of tailings. The values of these factors are not a definite value in different situations. Meanwhile, the existence of the phreatic line makes it a more complex issue to analyze the stability of the tailing dam. Additionally, it is very hard to give a definite limit to the state of tailing dam from security to failure. To consider the uncertainty when calculating the stability of the tailing dams, interval values are used to indicate the physical and mechanical parameters of tailings. An interval nonprobabilistic reliability model of the tailing dam, which can be used when the data is scarce, is developed to evaluate the stability of the tailing dam. The interval nonprobabilistic reliability analysis model of tailing dam is established in two cases, including with and without considering phreatic line conditions. The proposed model was applied to analyze the stability of two tailing dams in China and the calculation results of the interval nonprobabilistic reliability are found to be in agreement with actual situations. Thus, the interval nonprobabilistic reliability is a beneficial complement to the traditional analysis method of random reliability.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Child Victim of Avulsion of Anterior Teeth with Orthodontic Mini-Implant
Authors: de Oliveira Natalice Sousa , Barbosa Gabriella Lopes de Rezende , Lanza Lincoln Dias , Pretti Henrique
Published: September 2017

The treatment of choice in cases of avulsed permanent teeth is the immediate reimplantation. However, this conduct does not always work favorably, either by failures in the initial approach or by inappropriate interventions. In this sense, the aim of this study is to present an alternative prosthetic rehabilitation with the use of orthodontic mini-implants in the anterior region. This case reports a ten-year-old child with history of avulsion of superior central incisors. The therapeutic approach was planned to promote physiological teeth contacts and acceptable esthetics and phonetics. First, the occlusal-gingival insertion of two orthodontic mini-implants was performed in the alveolar ridge, and, immediately after that, two provisional crowns were attached to the implants. The interventions achieved satisfactory cosmetic and functional results. After one-year follow-up, the adjacent periodontal tissues remained without signs and/or symptoms of inflammation. The provisional crowns presented no mobility and fractures. During radiographic examination, a healthy bone tissue appearance was observed. The simplicity of mini-implant installation makes them a promising alternative for temporary prosthetic rehabilitation of patients undergoing growth and development. The technique provides positive aesthetic and functional results that may reflect on self-esteem and social inclusion of children and adolescents.
Improved scFv Anti-LOX-1 Binding Activity by Fusion with LOX-1-Binding Peptides
Authors: Hu Wei , Xie Qiuhong , Xiang Hongyu
Published: September 2017

The oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) targeted single-chain variable fragment (scFvs) is a promising molecule for the targeted delivery of imaging and therapeutic molecules of atherosclerotic diseases; however, its applications are limited by the inherent low antigen affinity. In this study, the three-dimensional (3D) model of the anti-LOX-1 scFv was constructed and its docking with the LOX-1 protein was developed. To improve the LOX-1-binding activity, the anti-LOX-1 scFv was designed to fuse with one of three LOX-1-binding heptapeptides, LTPATAI, FQTPPQL, and LSIPPKA, at its N-terminus and C-terminus and in the linker region, which have different LOX-1-binding interfaces with the anti-LOX-1 scFv analyzed by an array of computational approaches. These scFv/peptide fusions were constructed, successfully expressed in Brevibacillus choshinensis hosts, and purified by a two-step column purification process. The antigen binding activity, structural characteristics, thermal stability, and stability in serum of these fusion proteins were examined. Results showed that the scFv with N-terminal fusing peptides proteins demonstrated increased LOX-1-binding activity without decrease in stability. These findings will help increase the application efficacy of LOX-1 targeting scFv in LOX-1-based therapy.
Case Report of Multiembolic Cerebrovascular Event Associated with Ramp Study Echocardiogram
Authors: Butera Brian C. , Grazette Luanda P. , Lawrence Tracy , Bowdish Michael E. , Yoon Andrew J.
Published: September 2017

The incidence of ramp test echocardiogram-associated embolic events in the setting of therapeutic anticoagulation is likely rare and has not been reported. We present such a case in a patient with a HeartMate II left ventricular assist device (LVAD) whose serial head computed tomography images, deteriorating clinical course, and the multiembolic nature of the event suggest causality. If the pretest probability of pump thrombosis in an individual LVAD patient is sufficiently high, the potential risks of performing a ramp study echocardiogram may not be warranted, even in the setting of adequate anticoagulation.
Assessment of Mechanical Properties and Damage of High Performance Concrete Subjected to Magnesium Sulfate Environment
Authors: Cang Sheng , Ge Xiaoli , Bao Yanlin
Published: September 2017

Sulfate attack is one of the most important problems affecting concrete structures, especially magnesium sulfate attack. This paper presents an investigation on the mechanical properties and damage evolution of high performance concrete (HPC) with different contents of fly ash exposure to magnesium sulfate environment. The microstructure, porosity, mass loss, dimensional variation, compressive strength, and splitting tensile strength of HPC were investigated at various erosion times up to 392 days. The ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) propagation in HPC at different erosion time was determined by using ultrasonic testing technique. A relationship between damage and UPV of HPC was derived according to damage mechanics, and a correlation between the damage of HPC and erosion time was obtained eventually. The results indicated that (1) the average increasing amplitude of porosity for HPCs was 34.01% before and after exposure to magnesium sulfate solution; (2) the damage evolution of HPCs under sulfate attack could be described by an exponential fitting; (3) HPC containing 20% fly ash had the strongest resistance to magnesium sulfate attack.
CRISPR Genome-Wide Screening Identifies Dependence on the Proteasome Subunit PSMC6 for Bortezomib Sensitivity in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Shi Chang-Xin , Kortüm K. Martin , Zhu Yuan Xiao , Bruins Laura A. , Jedlowski Patrick , Votruba Patrick G. , Luo Moulun , Stewart Robert A. , Ahmann Jonathan , Braggio Esteban , Stewart A. Keith
Published: September 2017

Bortezomib is highly effective in the treatment of multiple myeloma; however, emergent drug resistance is common. Consequently, we employed CRISPR targeting 19,052 human genes to identify unbiased targets that contribute to bortezomib resistance. Specifically, we engineered an RPMI8226 multiple myeloma cell line to express Cas9 infected by lentiviral vector CRISPR library and cultured derived cells in doses of bortezomib lethal to parental cells. Sequencing was performed on surviving cells to identify inactivated genes responsible for drug resistance. From two independent whole-genome screens, we selected 31 candidate genes and constructed a second CRISPR sgRNA library, specifically targeting each of these 31 genes with four sgRNAs. After secondary screening for bortezomib resistance, the top 20 “resistance” genes were selected for individual validation. Of these 20 targets, the proteasome regulatory subunit PSMC6 was the only gene validated to reproducibly confer bortezomib resistance. We confirmed that inhibition of chymotrypsin-like proteasome activity by bortezomib was significantly reduced in cells lacking PSMC6. We individually investigated other members of the PSMC group (PSMC1 to 5) and found that deficiency in each of those subunits also imparts bortezomib resistance. We found 36 mutations in 19S proteasome subunits out of 895 patients in the IA10 release of the CoMMpass study (https://themmrf.org). Our findings demonstrate that the PSMC6 subunit is the most prominent target required for bortezomib sensitivity in multiple myeloma cells and should be examined in drug-refractory populations. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(12); 2862–70. ©2017 AACR.
Pathway-Enriched Gene Signature Associated with 53BP1 Response to PARP Inhibition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Hassan Saima , Esch Amanda , Liby Tiera , Gray Joe W. , Heiser Laura M.
Published: September 2017

Effective treatment of patients with triple-negative (ER-negative, PR-negative, HER2-negative) breast cancer remains a challenge. Although PARP inhibitors are being evaluated in clinical trials, biomarkers are needed to identify patients who will most benefit from anti-PARP therapy. We determined the responses of three PARP inhibitors (veliparib, olaparib, and talazoparib) in a panel of eight triple-negative breast cancer cell lines. Therapeutic responses and cellular phenotypes were elucidated using high-content imaging and quantitative immunofluorescence to assess markers of DNA damage (53BP1) and apoptosis (cleaved PARP). We determined the pharmacodynamic changes as percentage of cells positive for 53BP1, mean number of 53BP1 foci per cell, and percentage of cells positive for cleaved PARP. Inspired by traditional dose–response measures of cell viability, an EC50 value was calculated for each cellular phenotype and each PARP inhibitor. The EC50 values for both 53BP1 metrics strongly correlated with IC50 values for each PARP inhibitor. Pathway enrichment analysis identified a set of DNA repair and cell cycle–associated genes that were associated with 53BP1 response following PARP inhibition. The overall accuracy of our 63 gene set in predicting response to olaparib in seven breast cancer patient-derived xenograft tumors was 86%. In triple-negative breast cancer patients who had not received anti-PARP therapy, the predicted response rate of our gene signature was 45%. These results indicate that 53BP1 is a biomarker of response to anti-PARP therapy in the laboratory, and our DNA damage response gene signature may be used to identify patients who are most likely to respond to PARP inhibition. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(12); 2892–901. ©2017 AACR.
A volta da Cobra Canoa: em busca de uma antropologia indígena
Authors: Barreto João Paulo Lima , Santos Gilton Mendes dos
Published: September 2017

Este texto, escrito a quatro mãos, trata do processo das Políticas Afirmativas no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Antropologia da Universidade Federal do  Amazonas (UFAM). Ele descreve o enfrentamento dos desafios e o desenvolvimento de um exercício de reflexividade na busca de uma antropologia indígena.
Indígenas em Canarana: notas citadinas sobre a criatividade parque-xinguana
Authors: Horta Amanda
Published: September 2017

Este artigo propõe uma aproximação aos indígenas parque-xinguanos desde a cidade de Canarana (MT), município que compõe a porção sudeste do Parque Indígena do Xingu (PIX). Sediando as principais instituições de atendimento social, a FUNAI regional e diversas subsedes de organizações indígenas, Canarana é um município de referência para os indígenas do PIX. A cidade, espaço regido por uma lógica de Estado que insiste em reduzi-los à imagem do pobre, se faz cada dia mais um ambiente também indígena, desafiando a existência e a filosofia parque-xinguanas e dando origem a um momento absolutamente criativo da vida destas pessoas, de suas práticas filosóficas, de sua imaginação. Partindo de minhas experiências em Canarana entre os anos de 2014 e 2016, este trabalho explora duas diferentes imagens dos brancos da cidade formuladas pelos parque-xinguanos – o “peão” e o “chefe” – destacando as consequências da complexificação desta categoria para a teoria indígena das transformações no contexto urbano. Por fim, aborda os movimentos e expectativas indígenas quanto às suas relações na cidade e propõe uma reflexão sobre algumas das incongruências mais salientes entre a perspectiva parquexinguana e as formas com que o Estado pretende atualizar estas relações nas paisagens urbanas deste município.
Lançando-se a skates e abismos: como abrir a antropologia para outras grafias| Vida e grafias: narrativas antropológicas, entre biografia e etnografia, organizado por Suely Kofes e Daniela Manica
Authors: Feriani Daniela
Published: September 2017

Lançando-se a skates e abismos: como abrir a antropologia para outras grafias| Vida e grafias: narrativas antropológicas, entre biografia e etnografia, organizado por Suely Kofes e Daniela Manica
Mundos incertos sob um céu em queda: o pensamento indígena, a antropologia e a 32a Bienal de São Paulo / 32ª Bienal de São Paulo – Incerteza viva
Authors: Vincent Nina
Published: September 2017

Mundos incertos sob um céu em queda: o pensamento indígena, a antropologia e a 32a Bienal de São Paulo / 32ª Bienal de São Paulo – Incerteza viva
Estação Ferroviária de Mairinque: o projeto e as intervenções
Authors: Mitre Amanda Bianco , Correia Telma de Barros
Published: September 2017

Na segunda metade do século XIX e início do XX, a arquitetura viveu o desafio de responder às demandas e às inovações técnicas e estéticas associadas à realidade industrial emergente. Esse panorama de transformações e experimentações formais associou-se, entre outras coisas, à difusão do Art Nouveau. No Brasil, o estilo teve pouca apropriação por parte dos arquitetos, obtendo notoriedade, contudo, na arquitetura produzida por Victor Dubugras. Grande parte dos projetos concebidos pelo arquiteto incorporava uma linguagem que associava uma expressiva desenvoltura, no que se refere à articulação da formulação estética com o desenvolvimento construtivo, síntese encontrada em um de seus projetos mais simbólicos e representativos: a Estação Ferroviária de Mairinque. O presente artigo faz uma leitura das características plásticas e construtivas dessa edificação. Investiga, também, de que forma um conjunto de intervenções realizadas no prédio comprometeu a concepção original do projeto como um elemento único, sóbrio e coeso. Mostra como, tombado, o arcabouço do prédio está preservado, mas a composição sutil de seus espaços e detalhes – cores, texturas, esquadrias etc. – foi perdida e, com ela, talvez, a principal qualidade do projeto.
A psicocirurgia em instituições da ordem pública e privada: difusão prático-científica da lobotomia pré-frontal
Authors: Cardoso Camilie
Published: September 2017

Visando a compreender as aplicações da lobotomia pré-frontal em hospitais psiquiátricos integrados às esferas pública e privada, este trabalho é centrado na análise de artigos publicados por Barretto (1944, 1945) e Longo et. al (1949). Caracterizada como uma psicocirurgia de baixo custo, a técnica teve seu emprego justificado pela rápida supressão de sintomas etiologicamente associados ao desvio dos padrões que fundamentam a caracterização do doente como tal. Partindo desse cenário, pretendo investigar a forma como essa lógica normalizante está vinculada a afirmação – e constante reafirmação – de papéis sociais que amalgamam-se à perspectiva histórica e cultural dos autores analisados.
Auto-organização na aprendizagem de conceito científico em espaço organizado na perspectiva da História da Ciência
Authors: Kamioji Marly Iyo
Published: September 2017

Definimos e realizamos entrevistas pedagógicas com alunos da 7a e 8a série do ensino fundamental de escolas da rede pública que acabavam de visitar uma exposição científica onde eram expostos às teorias clássicas da física. Analisamos, através de registro em vídeo, a dinâmica das interações desenvolvidas durante a entrevista, aluno-aluno, aluno-grupo, aluno-entrevistador, aluno-exposição, em termos das expressões de linguagem e das correlações estabelecidas na direção de configurações científicas de significado. Chamamos dialógicas potenciais, de forma genérica, às interações em que há regulação da postura dos alunos na direção da aprendizagem, e de dialógicas efetivas às interações em que são desenvolvidas correlações que levam, através da permanência de significado, a configurações de aprendizado. Essa distinção surgiu na análise de duas situações que revelaram processos reguladores na interação, mas não com resultado final semelhantes: na primeira emergiu situação de aprendizagem enquanto que na outra não foi obtida nenhuma organização científica de significado. Os dados são analisados em termos de processos de auto-organização de sistemas dinâmicos aplicados à aprendizagem. A interação dialógica efetiva onde se desenvolveu a configuração de aprendizado do conceito científico de energia ocorreu num espaço de exposição científica organizado com coerência cognitiva onde a perspectiva histórica da construção dos conceitos científicos foi levada em conta.  Concluímos que esse tipo de entrevista pode se constituir em instrumento eficiente para propostas e avaliação de metodologias, em sala de aula e em exposições científicas, que visem a aprendizagem conceitual.
Analysis of the spatial distribution of dengue cases in the city of Rio de Janeiro, 2011 and 2012
Authors: Carvalho Silvia , Magalhães Mônica De Avelar Figueiredo Mafra , Medronho Roberto De Andrade
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE Analyze the spatial distribution of classical dengue and severe dengue cases in the city of Rio de Janeiro. METHODS Exploratory study, considering cases of classical dengue and severe dengue with laboratory confirmation of the infection in the city of Rio de Janeiro during the years 2011/2012. The georeferencing technique was applied for the cases notified in the Notification Increase Information System in the period of 2011 and 2012. For this process, the fields “street” and “number” were used. The ArcGis10 program’s Geocoding tool’s automatic process was performed. The spatial analysis was done through the kernel density estimator. RESULTS Kernel density pointed out hotspots for classic dengue that did not coincide geographically with severe dengue and were in or near favelas. The kernel ratio did not show a notable change in the spatial distribution pattern observed in the kernel density analysis. The georeferencing process showed a loss of 41% of classic dengue registries and 17% of severe dengue registries due to the address in the Notification Increase Information System form. CONCLUSIONS The hotspots near the favelas suggest that the social vulnerability of these localities can be an influencing factor for the occurrence of this aggravation since there is a deficiency of the supply and access to essential goods and services for the population. To reduce this vulnerability, interventions must be related to macroeconomic policies.
Binge drinking and illicit drug use among adolescent students
Authors: Raposo Jakelline Cipriano dos Santos , Costa Ana Carolina de Queiroz , Valença Paula Andréa de Melo , Zarzar Patrícia Maria , Diniz Alcides da Silva , Colares Viviane , Franca Carolina da
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of illicit drug use and its association with binge drinking and sociodemographic factors among adolescent students. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study with probabilistic conglomerate sampling, involving 1,154 students, aged 13 to 19 years old, from the public school system, in the city of Olinda, State of Pernambuco, Brazil, carried out in 2014. We used the Youth Risk Behavior Survey questionnaire, validated for use with Brazilian adolescents. The Chi-square test (≤ 0.05) and Poisson regression analysis were used to estimate the prevalence ratios, with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Use in life of illicit drugs was four times more prevalent among students who reported binge drinking (95%CI 3.19–5.45). Being in the age group of 16 to 19 years, being male, and having no religion were also significantly associated with illicit drug use. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of use in life of illicit drugs was higher in this study than in other studies carried out in Brazil and it was strongly associated with binge drinking. This factor was associated with gender, age, and religion.
Experimentation with psychoactive substances by public school students
Authors: Andrade Maria Eliane de , Santos Igor Henrique Farias , Souza Antônio Araújo Menezes de , Silva Aliane Caroline Santos , Leite Tatiane dos Santos , Oliveira Cristiane Costa da Cunha , Albuquerque Júnior Ricardo Luiz Cavalcanti de
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE To analyze the prevalence of exposure to psychoactive substances in public students of basic education and its association with sociodemographic characteristics. METHODS This is a cross-sectional survey conducted from March to September 2015, involving 1,009 students of the basic and high school education in 20 public schools in the municipality of Aracaju, State of Sergipe, Brazil. The data have been compiled using questionnaires previously applied in national studies of the Brazilian Center for Psychotropic Drugs. The variables have been dichotomized for later logistic regression using the Chi-square test to analyze associations between experimentation with psychoactive substances and other sociodemographic variables; odds ratio and confidence intervals have also been calculated. The level of significance adopted was 5%. RESULTS We have identified that 69.6% of the students have experimented alcohol and 12.4% cigarettes. Age (≥ 15 years) has shown a significant association with experimentation with alcohol (p < 0.001) and cigarettes (p = 0.02), acting as risk factor in both cases (OR = 2.34 and 1, 78, respectively), but it acted as a protective factor for the use of inhalants (p = 0.03 and OR = 0.58) and weight loss medication (p = 0.006 and OR = 0.44). Religious practice had a significant association with experimentation with alcohol (p = 0.01), functioning as a protective factor (OR = 0.56). CONCLUSIONS We have concluded that the psychoactive substance most experienced by students was alcohol, followed by cigarettes, and chance for experimentation increases after the age of 15. Religious practice, in turn, acts as a protective factor for experimentation with alcohol.
Spatial patterns of preventable perinatal mortality in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Nascimento Rita de Cássia de Sousa , Costa Maria da Conceição Nascimento , Braga José Uéleres , Natividade Márcio Santos da
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE To identify the spatial distribution patterns and areas of higher risk of preventable perinatal mortality in the city of Salvador, State of Bahia, Brazil. METHODS We carried out a spatial aggregated study in 2007, considering the weighting areas (census tracts contiguous sets) of Salvador, of which the center and north present low life conditions. Data were obtained from national vital statistics systems and the 2010 Census. Addresses of live births and stillbirths were geocoded by weighting area. The spatial distribution of the perinatal mortality rate was analyzed from thematic maps. Spatial dependence was evaluated by the Global and Local Geary’s and Moran’s Indexes. RESULTS Crude and smoothed perinatal mortality rates were high in areas situated to the north, west, and in center of Salvador. The smoothed rates in weighting areas ranged from 4.9/1,000 to 22.3/1,000 births. Of all perinatal deaths, 92.1% could have been prevented. We identified spatial dependence for preventable perinatal mortality for care in pregnancy, with neighboring areas with high risk in the north of the city. CONCLUSIONS The preventability potential of perinatal mortality was high in Salvador, in 2007. The spatial distribution pattern with higher rates in disadvantaged areas of the city suggests the existence of social inequalities in health. The characteristics of the process of urban development of Salvador, which has inadequate prenatal care, possibly influenced the magnitude and spatial distribution pattern of this mortality.
Metoprolol Reduces Hemodynamic and Metabolic Overload in Asymptomatic Aortic Valve Stenosis Patients
Authors: Hansson Nils Henrik , Sörensen Jens , Harms Hendrik Johannes , Kim Won Yong , Nielsen Roni , Tolbod Lars Poulsen , Frøkiær Jørgen , Bouchelouche Kirsten , Dodt Karen Kaae , Sihm Inger , Poulsen Steen Hvitfeldt , Wiggers Henrik
Published: September 2017

Background—

Currently, no pharmacological treatment can modify the natural history of aortic valve stenosis (AS). This underlines the critical need to explore novel treatment strategies, which could postpone or prevent the need for aortic valve replacement in patients with asymptomatic AS. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether metoprolol reduce the hemodynamic and metabolic burden imposed by AS.

Methods and Results—

In a double-blinded design, 40 patients with moderate-severe asymptomatic AS (aortic valve area, 0.5±0.1 cm
2
/m
2
; peak gradient, 53±19 mm Hg) were randomized to placebo or metoprolol treatment for 22 weeks. Patients were evaluated by echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, and
11
C-acetate positron emission tomography. Compared with placebo, metoprolol (100±53 mg/d) decreased heart rate; mean difference (95% confidence interval) −8 minute
−
1
(−13, −3;
P
=0.003) and increased ejection time 26 ms (2, 50;
P
=0.03). Furthermore, metoprolol reduced aortic valve peak −7 mm Hg (−13, 0;
P
=0.05) and mean −4 mm Hg (−7, −1;
P
=0.03) gradients, without affecting stroke volume 3 mL/m
2
(−2, 8;
P
=0.16). Valvuloarterial impedance (ie, global afterload) and myocardial oxygen consumption were reduced by −11% and −12% (
P
=0.03 and 0.01), respectively; and decreased heart rate correlated with lower valvuloarterial impedance, myocardial oxygen consumption, and improved myocardial efficiency defined as stroke work/myocardial oxygen consumption (
r
=0.63–0.65; all
P
<0.01). There were 2 adverse cardiovascular events in the metoprolol group and none in the placebo group.

Conclusions—

In patients with asymptomatic AS, metoprolol increases systolic ejection time and reduces aortic valve gradients, global afterload, and myocardial oxygen requirements. Thus, metoprolol displays favorable hemodynamic and metabolic effects and could improve outcome in patients with asymptomatic AS.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02076711.