bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modern to Glacial age subglacial meltwater drainage at Law Dome, coastal East Antarctica from topography, sediments and jökulhlaup observations
Authors: Goodwin Ian D. , Roberts Jason L. , Etheridge David M. , Hellstrom John , Moy Andrew D. , Ribo Marta , Smith Andrew M.
Published: July 2017

Rare jökulhlaup events, also known as subglacial lake outburst flood events, have been observed at the Law Dome ice margin and provide an insight into the physical characteristics of subglacial meltwater and drainage. The subglacial topography based on data from the BEDMAP2 and ICECAP projects, together with subsurface transects of the ice margin obtained using ground-penetrating radar, reveal several lakes and lake-like depressions and the drainage pathways of two jökulhlaup events. Oxygen isotope typing of the meltwater during the most recent (2014) jökulhlaup event, combined with ice margin stratigraphy, enable the identification of ice tunnel melt pathways that exploit the 30–90° dipping basal ice layering. The presence of subglacial meltwater beneath Law Dome during the Holocene to Glacial periods is confirmed by the dendritic drainage pattern in the subglacial morphology and extensive layers of basal regelation ice and subglacial carbonate precipitate deposits found within the Løken Moraines sediments. These subglacial carbonates, including ooid layers, formed from the mixing of glacial meltwater and seawater at 72 ka BP. The combined evidence indicates that the ocean discharge of subglacial meltwater may be variable and/or is periodically blocked by basal freezing events near the ice sheet terminus.
DUCT
Authors: Ottens Brammert , Dimitrakakis Christos , Faltings Boi
Published: July 2017

We propose a distributed upper confidence bound approach, DUCT, for solving distributed constraint optimization problems. We compare four variants of this approach with a baseline random sampling algorithm, as well as other complete and incomplete algorithms for DCOPs. Under general assumptions, we theoretically show that the solution found by DUCT after
T
steps is approximately
T
−1
-close to the optimal. Experimentally, we show that DUCT matches the optimal solution found by the well-known DPOP and O-DPOP algorithms on moderate-size problems, while always requiring less agent communication. For larger problems, where DPOP fails, we show that DUCT produces significantly better solutions than local, incomplete algorithms. Overall, we believe that DUCT is a practical, scalable algorithm for complex DCOPs.
Situated natural language interaction in uncertain and open worlds
Authors: Williams Tom
Published: July 2017

As intelligent robots become integrated into society, it becomes important for them to be capable of natural, human-like human-robot interaction (HRI). While there has been some progress on enabling natural-language based HRI (Mavridis, 2015), most natural language enabled robots rely on highly scripted interactions, keyword spotting, and shallow natural language processing techniques. For many applications, these methods may be sufficient to achieve the desired behavior, which may be restricted to a small class of tasks. Such methods, however, are not helpful for the development of robots that are generally and flexibly taskable, that can learn about new entities and concepts on the fly, and that are capable of engaging in truly natural
human-like
HRI.
Cux1 promotes cell proliferation and polycystic kidney disease progression in an ADPKD mouse model
Authors: Porath Binu , Livingston Safia , Andres Erica L. , Petrie Alexandra M. , Wright Joshua C. , Woo Anna E. , Carlton Carol G. , Baybutt Richard , Vanden Heuvel Gregory B.
Published: July 2017

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is one of the most common monogenic hereditary disorders in humans characterized by fluid-filled cysts, primarily in the kidneys. Cux1, a cell cycle regulatory gene highly expressed during kidney development, is elevated in the cyst-lining cells of Pkd1 mutant mice, and in human ADPKD cells. However, forced expression of Cux1 is insufficient to induce cystic disease in transgenic mice or to induce rapid cyst formation after cilia disruption in the kidneys of adult mice. Here we report a double mutant mouse model that has a conditional deletion of the Pkd1 gene in the renal collecting ducts together with a targeted mutation in the Cux1 gene (Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn). While kidneys isolated from newborn Pkd1CDmice exhibit cortical and medullary cysts, kidneys isolated from newborn Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn−/−mice did not show any cysts. Because Cux1tm2Ejn−/−are perinatal lethal, we evaluated Pkd1CDmice that were heterozygote for the Cux1 mutation. Similar to the newborn Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn−/−mice, newborn Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn+/−mice did not show any cysts. Comparison of Pkd1CDand Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn+/−mice at later stages of development showed a reduction in the severity of PKD in the Pkd1CD;Cux1tm2Ejn+/−mice. Moreover, we observed an increase in expression of the cyclin kinase inhibitor p27, a target of Cux1 repression, in the rescued collecting ducts. Taken together, our results suggest that Cux1 expression in PKD is not directly involved in cystogenesis but promotes cell proliferation required for expansion of existing cysts, primarily by repression of p27.
Reproducibility of airway luminal size in asthma measured by HRCT
Authors: Brown Robert H. , Henderson Robert J. , Sugar Elizabeth A. , Holbrook Janet T. , Wise Robert A.
Published: July 2017

Brown RH, Henderson RJ, Sugar EA, Holbrook JT, Wise RA, on behalf of the American Lung Association Airways Clinical Research Centers. Reproducibility of airway luminal size in asthma measured by HRCT. J Appl Physiol 123: 876–883, 2017. First published July 13, 2017; doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00307.2017.—High-resolution CT (HRCT) is a well-established imaging technology used to measure lung and airway morphology in vivo. However, there is a surprising lack of studies examining HRCT reproducibility. The CPAP Trial was a multicenter, randomized, three-parallel-arm, sham-controlled 12-wk clinical trial to assess the use of a nocturnal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device on airway reactivity to methacholine. The lack of a treatment effect of CPAP on clinical or HRCT measures provided an opportunity for the current analysis. We assessed the reproducibility of HRCT imaging over 12 wk. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for individual airway segments, individual lung lobes, both lungs, and air trapping. The ICC [95% confidence interval (CI)] for airway luminal size at total lung capacity ranged from 0.95 (0.91, 0.97) to 0.47 (0.27, 0.69). The ICC (95% CI) for airway luminal size at functional residual capacity ranged from 0.91 (0.85, 0.95) to 0.32 (0.11, 0.65). The ICC measurements for airway distensibility index and wall thickness were lower, ranging from poor (0.08) to moderate (0.63) agreement. The ICC for air trapping at functional residual capacity was 0.89 (0.81, 0.94) and varied only modestly by lobe from 0.76 (0.61, 0.87) to 0.95 (0.92, 0.97). In stable well-controlled asthmatic subjects, it is possible to reproducibly image unstimulated airway luminal areas over time, by region, and by size at total lung capacity throughout the lungs. Therefore, any changes in luminal size on repeat CT imaging are more likely due to changes in disease state and less likely due to normal variability.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY There is a surprising lack of studies examining the reproducibility of high-resolution CT in asthma. The current study examined reproducibility of airway measurements. In stable well-controlled asthmatic subjects, it is possible to reproducibly image airway luminal areas over time, by region, and by size at total lung capacity throughout the lungs. Therefore, any changes in luminal size on repeat CT imaging are more likely due to changes in disease state and less likely due to normal variability.
Fast voltage-sensitive dye imaging of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the rat granular retrosplenial cortex
Authors: Nixima Ken'ichi , Okanoya Kazuo , Ichinohe Noritaka , Kurotani Tohru
Published: July 2017

Rodent granular retrosplenial cortex (GRS) has dense connections between the anterior thalamic nuclei (ATN) and hippocampal formation. GRS superficial pyramidal neurons exhibit distinctive late spiking (LS) firing property and form patchy clusters with prominent apical dendritic bundles. The aim of this study was to investigate spatiotemporal dynamics of signal transduction in the GRS induced by ATN afferent stimulation by using fast voltage-sensitive dye imaging in rat brain slices. In coronal slices, layer 1a stimulation, which presumably activated thalamic fibers, evoked propagation of excitatory synaptic signals from layers 2–4 to layers 5–6 in a direction perpendicular to the layer axis, followed by transverse signal propagation within each layer. In the presence of ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists, inhibitory responses were observed in superficial layers, induced by direct activation of inhibitory interneurons in layer 1. In horizontal slices, excitatory signals in deep layers propagated transversely mainly from posterior to anterior via superficial layers. Cortical inhibitory responses upon layer 1a stimulation in horizontal slices were weaker than those in the coronal slices. Observed differences between coronal and horizontal planes suggest anisotropy of the intracortical circuitry. In conclusion, ATN inputs are processed differently in coronal and horizontal planes of the GRS and then conveyed to other cortical areas. In both planes, GRS superficial layers play an important role in signal propagation, which suggests that superficial neuronal cascade is crucial in the integration of multiple information sources.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Superficial neurons in the rat granular retrosplenial cortex (GRS) show distinctive late-spiking (LS) firing property. However, little is known about spatiotemporal dynamics of signal transduction in the GRS. We demonstrated LS neuron network relaying thalamic inputs to deep layers and anisotropic distribution of inhibition between coronal and horizontal planes. Since deep layers of the GRS receive inputs from the subiculum, GRS circuits may work as an integrator of multiple sources such as sensory and memory information.
Spontaneous Diaphragmatic Rupture in Hypermobile Type Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Amin Ruchi , Waibel Brett H.
Published: July 2017

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome refers to a spectrum of connective tissue disorders that have a variety of clinical manifestations. In this case, we present a spontaneous diaphragmatic rupture in a patient with type III Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. The patient presented with worsening shortness of breath after failure of medical therapy for a presumed pneumonia. A CT scan was obtained which showed diaphragmatic rupture with splenic herniation which was repaired in the operating room via thoracotomy. It is important to include diaphragmatic rupture in the differential diagnosis for patients with connective tissue disease and acute onset tachypnea and pain, as this complication has the potential for significant morbidity without prompt surgical intervention.
Effect of Internal Heat Source on the Onset of Double-Diffusive Convection in a Rotating Nanofluid Layer with Feedback Control Strategy
Authors: Khalid I. K. , Mokhtar N. F. M. , Hashim I. , Ibrahim Z. B. , Gani S. S. A.
Published: July 2017

A linear stability analysis has been carried out to examine the effect of internal heat source on the onset of Rayleigh–Bénard convection in a rotating nanofluid layer with double diffusive coefficients, namely, Soret and Dufour, in the presence of feedback control. The system is heated from below and the model used for the nanofluid layer incorporates the effects of thermophoresis and Brownian motion. Three types of bounding systems of the model have been considered which are as follows: both the lower and upper bounding surfaces are free, the lower is rigid and the upper is free, and both of them are rigid. The eigenvalue equations of the perturbed state were obtained from a normal mode analysis and solved using the Galerkin method. It is found that the effect of internal heat source and Soret parameter destabilizes the nanofluid layer system while increasing the Coriolis force, feedback control, and Dufour parameter helps to postpone the onset of convection. Elevating the modified density ratio hastens the instability in the system and there is no significant effect of modified particle density in a nanofluid system.
Methods in Ranking Fuzzy Numbers: A Unified Index and Comparative Reviews
Authors: Nguyen Thanh-Lam
Published: July 2017

Fuzzy set theory, extensively applied in abundant disciplines, has been recognized as a plausible tool in dealing with uncertain and vague information due to its prowess in mathematically manipulating the knowledge of imprecision. In fuzzy-data comparisons, exploring the general ranking measure that is capable of consistently differentiating the magnitude of fuzzy numbers has widely captivated academics’ attention. To date, numerous indices have been established; however, counterintuition, less discrimination, and/or inconsistency on their fuzzy-number rating outcomes have prohibited their comprehensive implementation. To ameliorate their manifested ranking weaknesses, this paper proposes a unified index that multiplies weighted-mean and weighted-area discriminatory components of a fuzzy number, respectively, called centroid value and attitude-incorporated left-and-right area. From theoretical proof of consistency property and comparative studies for triangular, triangular-and-trapezoidal mixed, and nonlinear fuzzy numbers, the unified index demonstrates conspicuous ranking gains in terms of intuition support, consistency, reliability, and computational simplicity capability. More importantly, the unified index possesses the consistency property for ranking fuzzy numbers and their images as well as for symmetric fuzzy numbers with an identical altitude which is a rather critical property for accurate matching and/or retrieval of information in the field of computer vision and image pattern recognition.
Vitreous Substitutes: Old and New Materials in Vitreoretinal Surgery
Authors: Alovisi Camilla , Panico Claudio , Sanctis Ugo de , Eandi Chiara M.
Published: July 2017

Recent developments in vitreoretinal surgery have increased the need for suitable vitreous substitutes. A successful substitute should maintain all the physical and biochemical properties of the original vitreous, be easy to manipulate, and be long lasting. Substitutes can be gaseous or liquid, both of which have associated advantages and disadvantages related to their physical properties and use. Furthermore, new surgical techniques with smaller vitreoretinal instruments have driven the use of more viscous substitutes. In this review, we analyze and discuss the most frequently used vitreous substitutes and look ahead to future alternatives. We classify these compounds based on their composition and structure, discuss their clinical use with respect to their associated advantages and disadvantages, and analyze how new vitreoretinal surgical techniques have modified their use.
Effect of Keishibukuryogan, a Japanese Traditional Kampo Prescription, on Improvement of Microcirculation and Oketsu and Induction of Endothelial Nitric Oxide: A Live Imaging Study
Authors: Tomita Tsutomu , Hirayama Aki , Matsui Hirofumi , Aoyagi Kazumasa
Published: July 2017

Oketsu is a characteristic condition that plays an important role in Kampo, Japanese traditional medicine, and includes multiple aspects of hemodynamic disorders. This study aims to clarify the microcirculation of Oketsu and the pharmacological effect of Keishibukuryogan, an anti‐Oketsu Kampo prescription, using live imaging techniques. Oral administration of Keishibukuryogan induced significant vasodilation of murine subcutaneous arterioles compared to the preadministration level. This vasodilatation peaked 60 min after administration and persisted for 90 min. The blood velocity in the subcutaneous capillary was also increased by Keishibukuryogan in generally the same manner. In rat mesenteric arterioles, Keishibukuryogan administration improved microhemodynamic parameters, including the resolution of erythrocyte congestion and the cell‐free layer, which are representative of Oketsu pathology. Live imaging revealed an increase of diaminofluorescein‐2 diacetate fluorescence, a nitric oxide (NO) specific reagent, in the arterial endothelium following Keishibukuryogan administration. This fluorescence was most remarkable at vascular bifurcations but was present throughout the mesenteric arterioles. This study demonstrates the successful imaging of Oketsu pathology with respect to microcirculation and the anti‐Oketsu effects of Keishibukuryogan, namely, vasodilation of arterioles, increased blood velocity, and resolution of erythrocyte congestion. The anti‐Oketsu effect of Keishibukuryogan is related to endothelial NO production.
Expression of the NRF2 Target Gene NQO1 Is Enhanced in Mononuclear Cells in Human Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Shen Jianlin , Rasmussen Marianne , Dong Qi-Rong , Tepel Martin , Scholze Alexandra
Published: July 2017

Reduced nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway activity was reported in models of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Pharmacological activation of NRF2 is supposed to improve renal function, but data concerning the NRF2 activity in human CKD are lacking. We investigated the NRF2 target NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) as a readout parameter for NRF2 activity in monocytes of CKD patients (n = 63) compared to those of healthy controls (n = 16). The NQO1 gene expression was quantified using real‐time PCR and the protein content by in‐cell Western assays. We found a 3‐4‐fold increase in NQO1 gene expression in CKD 1–5 (n = 29; 3.5 for NQO1/ribosomal protein L41; p < 0.001). This was accompanied by a 1.1‐fold increase in NQO1 protein (p = 0.06). Cardiovascular disease prevalence was higher in CKD 1–5 patients with higher compared to those with lower NQO1 gene expression (p = 0.02). In advanced uremia, in dialysis patients (n = 34), NQO1 gene expression was less robustly upregulated than that in CKD 1–5, while NQO1 protein was not upregulated. We conclude that in mononuclear cells of CKD patients, the NRF2 pathway is activated by coexisting pathogenic mechanisms, but in advanced uremia, the effectiveness of this upregulation is reduced. Both processes could interfere with pharmacological NRF2 activation.
Radar Communication Integrated Waveform Design Based on OFDM and Circular Shift Sequence
Authors: Li Cong , Bao Weimin , Xu Luping , Zhang Hua , Huang Ziyang
Published: July 2017

Based on the orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technique, an intelligent waveform is designed, which is suitable for simultaneously performing data transmission and radar sensing. In view of the inherent high peak‐to‐mean envelope power ratio (PMERP) and poor peak‐to‐side‐lobe ratio (PSLR) problems in the OFDM based radar and communication (RadCom) waveform design, we propose two technologies to deal with that. To be specific, we adopt Gray code technology to reduce the PMERP and simultaneously choose an optimal cyclic sequence to improve the PSLR of RadCom waveform. In our method, the optimal cyclic sequence is dynamically generated to continuously provide the best waveform according to the change of communication data. In addition, to meet the requirements of different radar detection tasks, two simple methods are utilized to adjust the bandwidth of RadCom waveform. To verify the advantages of the designed waveform, we conduct several simulation experiments to compare with some existing RadCom waveforms. The results show that our designed RadCom waveform can simultaneously achieve lower PMERP and higher PSLR. In addition, our designed RadCom waveform has a thumbtack type fuzzy function and shows the good ability to do multitarget detection.
The Evolution of Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts: Advances in Technology and Technique
Authors: Tomei Krystal L.
Published: July 2017

Over the past few centuries, there have been many advances in shunt technology, from the evolution of shunt tubing materials, to advances in valves for regulating the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Additional medical advances have enabled the antibiotic impregnation of catheters. Finally, advances in technology have expanded the options for minimally invasive techniques and improved the management of complicated cases of hydrocephalus. The evolution of technology and technique in the management of hydrocephalus with CSF shunts will be discussed here.
Relaxation Rate of the Respiratory Muscles and Prediction of Extubation Outcome in Prematurely Born Infants
Authors: Dassios Theodore , Kaltsogianni Ourania , Greenough Anne
Published: July 2017

Background: Accurate prediction of extubation outcome could result in a significant reduction of respiratory morbidity in premature neonates. Objectives: To assess whether the respiratory muscle time constant of relaxation (τ) predicted extubation outcome in mechanically ventilated, premature infants. Methods: Forty-six mechanically ventilated infants with a median gestational age of 26 (interquartile range [IQR] 25-29) weeks were prospectively studied. τ was calculated from the reciprocal of the slope of the decline in airway pressure as a function of time. Measurements of τ were done during 5-10 min of a spontaneous breathing test (SBT) prior to extubation. During the first and last minute of the SBT, τ1 and τ2, respectively, were assessed, and the difference between them was calculated (Δτ). Results: The median τ2 was significantly higher in infants whose extubation failed (20.7 [IQR 12.9-34.7] s/cm H2O) than in infants whose extubation succeeded (8.2 [IQR 6.2-17.8] s/cm H2O, p = 0.002). The median Δτ was significantly higher in infants whose extubation failed (10.3 [IQR 4.4-23.9] s/cm H2O) than in infants whose extubation succeeded (-1.63 [IQR -5.7 to 0.3] s/cm H2O, p = 0.001). Extubation failure was associated with τ2 (p = 0.011) and Δτ (p = 0.010) after correcting for postmenstrual age, patent ductus arteriosus, and intraventricular haemorrhage. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that Δτ predicted extubation failure with an area under the curve of 0.937. A Δτ of +1.02 s/cm H2O predicted extubation failure with 94% sensitivity and 83% specificity. Conclusions: The respiratory muscle time constant of relaxation during an SBT was significantly greater in infants whose extubation failed and could be used to predict extubation outcome in prematurely born infants.
High Prevalence of Pulmonary Hypertension Complicates the Care of Infants with Omphalocele
Authors: Hutson Shandee , Baerg Joanne , Deming Douglas , St. Peter Shawn D. , Hopper Andrew , Goff Donna A.
Published: July 2017

Background: Omphalocele is one of the most common abdominal wall defects. Many newborn infants born with omphalocele present with significant respiratory distress at birth, requiring mechanical ventilatory support, and have clinical evidence of pulmonary hypertension. Little information exists on the prevalence of and risk factors associated with pulmonary hypertension in this cohort of infants. Objectives: To describe the prevalence of and risk factors associated with pulmonary hypertension among infants with omphalocele. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective chart review of demographic data and clinical characteristics of infants with omphalocele admitted to the neonatal intensive care units of Loma Linda University Children's Hospital and Children's Mercy Hospital between 1994 and 2011. Echocardiogram images were reviewed for pulmonary hypertension, and statistical analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with the presence of pulmonary hypertension. Results: Pulmonary hypertension was diagnosed in 32/56 (57%) infants with omphalocele. Compared to infants without pulmonary hypertension, infants with pulmonary hypertension were more likely to have a liver-containing defect (16/32 [50%] vs. 5/24 [21%], p = 0.03), require intubation at birth (18/32 [56%] vs. 6/24 [17%], p = 0.03), and die during initial hospitalization (12/32 [38%] vs. 2/24 [8%], p = 0.01). Conclusion: The majority of infants with omphalocele have evidence of pulmonary hypertension which is associated with increased mortality. Echocardiograms to screen for pulmonary hypertension should be obtained at ≥2 days of life in infants with omphalocele, especially in those with liver within the omphalocele sac and/or in those infants who require intubation at birth to screen for pulmonary hypertension.
Different Behavior and Response of Staphylococcus Epidermidis and Streptococcus Pneumoniae to a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt: An in vitro Study
Authors: Heidari Vahid , Habibi Zohreh , Hojjati Marvasti Ahmadreza , Ebrahim Soltani Zahra , Naderian Negin , Tanzifi Parvin , Nejat Farideh
Published: July 2017

Background: Pneumococcal shunt infection is a rare event. There is no consensus on the therapeutic management of this kind of shunt infection according to literature reviews, and it seems to be different from infection with Staphylococcus epidermidis. We studied 2 shunted patients with pneumococcal meningitis, both of whom were treated with only antibiotics. The management of these cases seems to be different from that of shunt catheter infection due to these bacteria. We conducted a laboratory study to show the different behavior of pneumococcus compared to S. epidermidis regarding shunt catheter colonization. Materials and Methods:S. epidermidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid of meningitis patients were incubated in sterile media. Forty-five segments of shunt catheter from silicone material were placed in 45 separate media of S. epidermidis and pneumococcus. Then each catheter was washed and cultured in blood chocolate agar growth medium in separate petri dishes via the roll plate method. The dishes were extracted from the incubator and the colony count was calculated after 72 h. Results: The colony count was obviously different between the 2 bacteria groups, with a higher count related to S. epidermidis dishes. The colony count of the pneumococcal petri dishes was 25-35,000 (mean 14,337) and for dishes with S. epidermidis it was 14,000-100,000 (mean 50,125) (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The adherence of pneumococcus to shunt catheters seems to be much less than that of S. epidermidis, which produced a very low colony count when incubated with the catheter in the medium culture. S. pneumoniae meningitis in shunted patients can be managed successfully with only antibiotics. This approach can prevent problems related to the several additional surgeries required for shunt removal, a new shunt insertion, and the management of high intracranial pressure.
O cinema de John Akomfrah e as latências de porvir da memória diaspórica
Authors: Sombra Rodrigo
Published: July 2017

A partir da hipótese de que o cinema estaria apto a produzir uma escrita historiográfica própria, mediante seus recursos expressivos, este artigo investiga o lugar da diáspora africana na obra do realizador britânico John Akomfrah. À luz do cruzamento entre imagem e história formulado por Walter Benjamin, analiso os usos de imagens de arquivo que captam a experiência de membros das antigas colônias britânicas emigrados à Grã-Bretanha do pós-guerra no filme The Nine Muses (2010). Argumento que em Akomfrah os materiais de arquivo excedem a condição de registro circunscrito a dar testemunho do momento em que vieram a existir, revelando potências submersas na atualidade pós-colonial.
De la selva al sugar love. Imágenes de Hollywood sobre Brasil: usos locales y relaciones entre cine, diplomacia cultural y turismo en los años treinta
Authors: Mariño Cecilia Nuria Gil
Published: July 2017

La aparición del cine sonoro tuvo como resultado una serie de transformaciones que llevaron a Hollywood a ensayar diversas fórmulas de empatía con los mercados extranjeros. Para el caso latinoamericano, las películas con actores y locaciones de la región reforzaron un modelo transmedial continental, al mismo tiempo que se convirtieron en herramientas de un aparato diplomático cultural en tiempos de la buena vecindad. Este trabajo se centra en los usos locales de las imágenes urbanas y modernas de lo brasileño con el advenimiento del sonoro por parte del Estado y de los actores del sector, fortaleciéndose, así, un entramado comercial y cultural entre el cine, el turismo y la diplomacia.
Mortu nega (1988): cinema e história na luta de independência e o pós-colonial “daqueles a quem a morte foi negada”
Authors: De Oliveira Jusciele Conceição Almeida
Published: July 2017

As relações entre Portugal e o território que corresponde à atual Guiné-Bissau datam do século XV. Com a chegada de Diogo Gomes na costa africana, as relações territoriais, políticas e culturais se intensificaram. Entre 1884 e 1885, após a Conferência de Berlim, foram delimitadas as fronteiras físicas do continente africano. Em janeiro de 1963, deflagrou-se a luta da Guiné pela independência contra o colonialismo português, que só será reconhecida oficialmente por Portugal depois do 25 de abril de 1974. Nesse sentido, a história de Portugal e da Guiné-Bissau se cruza, razão pela qual é feito neste texto um levantamento sobre as relações entre cinema e história, por meio das questões presentes no filme Mortu nega (1988), do cineasta bissau-guineense Flora Gomes. Salienta-se que este texto faz parte do primeiro capítulo da tese de doutorado, que está na fase de escrita, sobre a autoria na obra do cineasta.
Nova Teoria da Comunicação e Peirce: um diálogo possível
Authors: Pimenta Francisco José Paoliello
Published: July 2017

Este artigo se insere em discussões na esfera da Epistemologia da Comunicação iniciadas na década passada pelo pesquisador Ciro Marcondes Filho, ao criticar “os equívocos” da obra de Charles S. Peirce, e, especialmente, ao propor, em 2012, a interrupção dos estudos dedicados ao pragmaticismo. Em contraste com os esforços de apontar equívocos nessas críticas, este estudo apresenta e testa, por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica, a hipótese de que existem possíveis aproximações entre a Nova Teoria da Comunicação, proposta por Marcondes, e a teoria peirceana. Apesar de também ocorrerem diferenças significativas, as várias aproximações encontradas conduzem à conclusão de que talvez fosse mais produtivo um trabalho conjunto de esclarecimento dos temas tratados em lugar de propostas de supressão de tendências com pressupostos diferentes.
Blood Pressure and Arterial Load After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Lindman Brian R. , Otto Catherine M. , Douglas Pamela S. , Hahn Rebecca T. , Elmariah Sammy , Weissman Neil J. , Stewart William J. , Ayele Girma M. , Zhang Feifan , Zajarias Alan , Maniar Hersh S. , Jilaihawi Hasan , Blackstone Eugene , Chinnakondepalli Khaja M. , Tuzcu E. Murat , Leon Martin B. , Pibarot Philippe
Published: July 2017

Background—

After aortic valve replacement, left ventricular afterload is often characterized by the residual valve obstruction. Our objective was to determine whether higher systemic arterial afterload—as reflected in blood pressure, pulsatile and resistive load—is associated with adverse clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods and Results—

Total, pulsatile, and resistive arterial load were measured in 2141 patients with severe aortic stenosis treated with TAVR in the PARTNER I trial (Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valve) who had systolic blood pressure (SBP) and an echocardiogram obtained 30 days after TAVR. The primary end point was 30-day to 1-year all-cause mortality. Lower SBP at 30 days after TAVR was associated with higher mortality (20.0% for SBP 100–129 mm Hg versus 12.0% for SBP 130–170 mm Hg;
P
<0.001). This association remained significant after adjustment, was consistent across subgroups, and confirmed in sensitivity analyses. In adjusted models that included SBP, higher total and pulsatile arterial load were associated with increased mortality (
P
<0.001 for all), but resistive load was not. Patients with low 30-day SBP and high pulsatile load had a 3-fold higher mortality than those with high 30-day SBP and low pulsatile load (26.1% versus 8.1%; hazard ratio, 3.62; 95% confidence interval, 2.36–5.55).

Conclusions—

Even after relief of valve obstruction in patients with aortic stenosis, there is an independent association between post-TAVR blood pressure, systemic arterial load, and mortality. Blood pressure goals in patients with a history of aortic stenosis may need to be redefined. Increased pulsatile arterial load, rather than blood pressure, may be a target for adjunctive medical therapy to improve outcomes after TAVR.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00530894
Long-Term Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Complications in Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Comarmond Cloé , Biard Lucie , Lambert Marc , Mekinian Arsène , Ferfar Yasmina , Kahn Jean-Emmanuel , Benhamou Ygal , Chiche Laurent , Koskas Fabien , Cluzel Philippe , Hachulla Eric , Messas Emmanuel , Resche-Rigon Matthieu , Cacoub Patrice , Mirault Tristan , Saadoun David
Published: July 2017

Background:

Because of the wide variation in the course of Takayasu arteritis (TA), predicting outcome is challenging. We assess long-term outcome and prognosis factors for vascular complications in patients with TA.

Methods:

A retrospective multicenter study of characteristics and outcomes of 318 patients with TA fulfilling American College of Rheumatology and Ishikawa criteria was analyzed. Factors associated with event-free survival, relapse-free survival, and incidences of vascular complications were assessed. Risk factors for vascular complications were identified in a multivariable model.

Results:

The median age at TA diagnosis was 36 [25–47] years, and 276 patients (86.8%) were women. After a median follow-up of 6.1 years, relapses were observed in 43%, vascular complications in 38%, and death in 5%. Progressive clinical course was observed in 45%, carotidodynia in 10%, and retinopathy in 4%. The 5- and 10-year event-free survival, relapse-free survival, and complication-free survival were 48.2% (42.2; 54.9) and 36.4% (30.3; 43.9), 58.6% (52.7; 65.1) and 47.7% (41.2; 55.1), and 69.9% (64.3; 76.0) and 53.7% (46.8; 61.7), respectively. Progressive disease course (
P
=0.018) and carotidynia (
P
=0.036) were independently associated with event-free survival. Male sex (
P
=0.048), elevated C-reactive protein (
P
=0.013), and carotidynia (
P
=0.003) were associated with relapse-free survival. Progressive disease course (
P
=0.017), thoracic aorta involvement (
P
=0.009), and retinopathy (
P
=0.002) were associated with complication-free survival.

Conclusions:

This nationwide study shows that 50% of patients with TA will relapse and experience a vascular complication ≤10 years from diagnosis. We identified specific characteristics that identified those at highest risk for subsequent vascular complications.
Detecting Intracranial Vessel Wall Lesions With 7T-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Harteveld Anita A. , van der Kolk Anja G. , van der Worp H. Bart , Dieleman Nikki , Zwanenburg Jaco J.M. , Luijten Peter R. , Hendrikse Jeroen
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose—

Vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging sequences have been developed to directly visualize the intracranial vessel wall, enabling detection of vessel wall changes, including those that have not yet caused luminal narrowing. In this study, vessel wall lesion burden was assessed in patients with recent posterior circulation ischemia using 7T-magnetic resonance imaging and compared with matched healthy controls.

Methods—

Fifty subjects (25 patients and 25 matched healthy controls) underwent 7T-magnetic resonance imaging with an intracranial vessel wall sequence before and after contrast administration. Two raters scored the presence and contrast enhancement of arterial wall lesions in individual segments of the circle of Willis and its primary branches. Total burden and distribution of vessel wall lesions and lesion characteristics (configuration, thickening pattern, and contrast enhancement) were compared both between and within both groups.

Results—

Overall, vessel wall lesion burden and distribution were comparable between patients and controls. Regarding individual arterial segments, only vessel wall lesions in the posterior cerebral artery were more frequently observed in patients (18.0%) than in controls (5.4%;
P
=0.003). Many of these lesions showed enhancement, both in patients (48.9%) and in controls (43.5%;
P
=0.41). In patients, the proportion of enhancing lesions was higher in the posterior circulation (53.3%) than in the anterior circulation (20.6%;
P
=0.008).

Conclusions—

Although overall intracranial vessel wall lesion burden and contrast enhancement were comparable between patients with recent posterior circulation ischemia and healthy controls, this study also revealed significant differences between the 2 groups, suggesting an association between posterior circulation lesion burden/enhancement and ischemic events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.trialregister.nl
. Unique identifier: NTR5688.
River Listening: Acoustic Ecology and Aquatic Bioacoustics in Global River Systems
Authors: Barclay Leah , Gifford Toby , Linke Simon
Published: July 2017

River Listening is an interdisciplinary research project exploring the cultural and biological diversity of global river systems through sound. The project examines the creative possibilities of accessible and noninvasive recording technologies to monitor river health and engage local communities in the conservation of global river systems. River Listening combines emerging fields of science with acoustic ecology, creativity and digital technology to further the understanding of aquatic biodiversity and inspire action at a time when the conservation and management of freshwater ecosystems is a critical priority.
Microbial Nanoids: Electronic Arts in the Face of Mexico’s Megadiversity Crisis
Authors: Thompson Reynaldo , Mukhopadhyay Tirtha Prasad
Published: July 2017

In this paper the authors describe the pioneering robot designed by Arcangel Constantini, called the Nanodrizas (2006). Nanodrizas is a cluster of small robots resembling extraterrestrial flying objects. They are introduced into an ecosystem for water recycling, among other effects. The result of a seriocomic robotic device like the Nanodrizas is to make the viewer aware of the specific technology that would one day allow humans to invite machines and artificial life-systems to save an environment that is precariously balanced on the edge.
Analysis of the Strengths and Weaknesses of Dutch Water Storage Areas as a Legal Instrument for Flood-risk Prevention
Authors: van Doorn-Hoekveld Willemijn , Groothuijse Frank
Published: July 2017

New flood risks require a new flood risk management approach. In the Netherlands there has always been a strong focus on flood defence. However, flood defence in the form of dikes alone will not be sufficient to keep the Netherlands habitable in the future. The ‘Room for Water’ debate has led to a new legal instrument: water storage areas, which fits perfectly in one of the requirements of the Floods Directive. This relatively new instrument has its own legal framework that is embedded in water law as well as in spatial planning law. This paper analyses the legal framework of the Dutch water storage areas in order to provide a swot analysis that may serve other states that aim to improve their flood risk management strategies.
Studies on Gripopterygidae (Plecoptera) from Espírito Santo State, Brazil
Authors: GONÇALVES MAÍSA DE CARVALHO , NOVAES MARCOS CARNEIRO , SALLES FREDERICO FALCÃO
Published: July 2017

Specimens of Gripopterygidae (Plecoptera) from Espírito Santo State and surrounding areas in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, were studied. A new species, Gripopteryx caparao n. sp. is described. The female of Paragripopteryx intervalensis Bispo & Lecci 2011 is described and recorded for a new site. Comments on G. garbei Navás 1936 are presented. New state records are provided for G. cancellata (Pictet 1841), G. reticulata (Brauer 1866), G. juetah Froehlich 1990, G. pilosa Froehlich 1990, P. egena Froehlich 1994, P. intervalensis Bispo & Lecci 2011, P. klapaleki Enderlein 1909, and Tupiperla gracilis (Burmeister 1839).
MJO Propagation Shaped by Zonal Asymmetric Structures: Results from 24 GCM Simulations
Authors: Wang Bin , Lee Sun-Seon
Published: July 2017

Eastward propagation is an essential characteristic of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO). Yet, simulation of MJO propagation in general circulation models (GCMs) remains a major challenge and understanding the causes of propagation remains controversial. The present study explores why the GCMs have diverse performances in MJO simulation by diagnosis of 24 GCM simulations. An intrinsic linkage is found between MJO propagation and the zonal structural asymmetry with respect to the MJO convective center. The observed and realistically simulated MJO eastward propagations are characterized by stronger Kelvin easterly waves than Rossby westerly waves in the lower troposphere, which is opposite to the Gill pattern where Rossby westerly waves are 2 times stronger than Kelvin easterly waves. The GCMs simulating stronger Rossby westerly waves tend to show a stationary MJO. MJO propagation performances are robustly correlated with the quality of simulated zonal asymmetries in the 850-hPa equatorial zonal winds, 700-hPa diabatic heating, 1000–700-hPa equivalent potential temperature, and convective instability. The models simulating realistic MJO propagation are exemplified by an eastward propagation of boundary layer moisture convergence (BLMC) that leads precipitation propagation by about 5 days. The BLMC stimulates MJO eastward propagation by preconditioning and predestabilizing the atmosphere, and by generating lower-tropospheric heating and available potential energy to the east of precipitation center. The MJO structural asymmetry is generated by the three-way interaction among convective heating, moisture, and equatorial wave and boundary layer dynamics. In GCMs, differing convective heating representation could produce different MJO structural asymmetry, and thus different propagations. Diagnosis of structural asymmetry may help revealing the models’ deficiency in representing the complex three-way interaction processes, which involves various parameterized processes.
The Chilean Coastal Orographic Precipitation Experiment: Observing the Influence of Microphysical Rain Regimes on Coastal Orographic Precipitation
Authors: Massmann Adam K. , Minder Justin R. , Garreaud René D. , Kingsmill David E. , Valenzuela Raul A. , Montecinos Aldo , Fults Sara Lynn , Snider Jefferson R.
Published: July 2017

The Chilean Coastal Orographic Precipitation Experiment (CCOPE) was conducted during the austral winter of 2015 (May–August) in the Nahuelbuta Mountains (peak elevation 1.3 km MSL) of southern Chile (38°S). CCOPE used soundings, two profiling Micro Rain Radars, a Parsivel disdrometer, and a rain gauge network to characterize warm and ice-initiated rain regimes and explore their consequences for orographic precipitation. Thirty-three percent of foothill rainfall fell during warm rain periods, while 50% of rainfall fell during ice-initiated periods. Warm rain drop size distributions were characterized by many more and relatively smaller drops than ice-initiated drop size distributions. Both the portion and properties of warm and ice-initiated rainfall compare favorably with observations of coastal mountain rainfall at a similar latitude in California. Orographic enhancement is consistently strong for rain of both types, suggesting that seeding from ice aloft is not a requisite for large orographic enhancement. While the data suggest that orographic enhancement may be greater during warm rain regimes, the difference in orographic enhancement between regimes is not significant. Sounding launches indicate that differences in orographic enhancement are not easily explainable by differences in low-level moisture flux or nondimensional mountain height between the regimes.
Black Feminists and Du Bois: Respectability, Protection, and Beyond
Authors: Griffin Farah Jasmine
Published: July 2017

Throughout his life, W.E.B. Du Bois was an advocate for black women. However, in his article of 1898, "The Study of the Negro Problems," he posits a model of the intellectuals, the investigators who analyze Negro problems, as male. In other writings, the most important being "The Damnation of Women," Du Bois focuses his attention on black women as mothers, workers, and activists but not as intellectuals. This is why contemporary black feminist intellectuals continue to claim him as an important ancestor even as they critique some of his failures around gender. The author's research attempts to enhance and extend the intellectual agendas Du Bois set in motion by being attentive to both gender and race.
Du Bois as Social Activist: Why We Are Not Saved
Authors: Berry Mary Frances
Published: July 2017

W.E.B. Du Bois completed most of his 1898 agenda, and much of the remainder has been accomplished since. And yet we are not saved. We need to reclaim race relations studies about power and institutions. Agency is only part of the story. We should remember Du Bois's emphasis on the increasing importance of black, "brown, and yellow" men and women because of "sheer numbers and physical contact." As we enter the twenty-first century, we need more studies of other people of color replicating those Du Bois proposed concerning African Americans. If scholars have any interest in being like Du Bois, they must be devoted to research but not as onlookers in the struggle for social justice. They must act to "raise" not just themselves but the race. This is the work that must be done if we want one America in the twenty-first century to be more than just a cliché but a reality.
Being an African in the World: The Du Boisian Epistemology
Authors: Monteiro Anthony
Published: July 2017

W.E.B. Du Bois sought not merely to rewrite the history of Africa but to think in epistemological terms about what it meant to be an African in the modern world and its significance for social research. This becomes apparent in part from his earliest writing—in particular, a 1904 review of The Souls of Black Folk— but takes on a more conscious form in later works. Looking at Du Bois in this way locates his intellectual project in an African-centered challenge to European intellectual and civilizational hegemony, a challenge which is wider and more profound than modern-day Afrocentrism. To achieve what is no less than an epistemic break, he sought to reconceptualize Africa from the standpoint of an African in America. This article views the Du Boisian project as a rupture of vast proportions and one which has continuing value to the social and human sciences of the African.
W.E.B. Du Bois on the Study of Social Problems
Authors: Outlaw Lucius T.
Published: July 2017

This close reading and interpretation of Du Bois's "The Study of the Negro Problems" (Du Bois 1898b) focuses on several matters: the historical and biographical contexts within which Du Bois produced and presented the essay; what the author takes to be Du Bois's convictions regarding the nature and production of scientific, truthful knowledge, and the importance of such knowledge for resolving social problems and thereby contributing to progressive social evolution. These convictions presupposed and were conditioned by a particular conception of social reality in terms of which Du Bois formulated a conception of "social problems," particularly those having to do with "the Negro" in the United States. Finally, the author reviews Du Bois's critique of then-prevailing social science and his proposed "Program for Future Study" of "Negro problems" and concludes with a brief assessment.