bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One-year unsupervised individualized exercise training intervention enhances cardiorespiratory fitness but not muscle deoxygenation or glycemic control in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Rissanen Antti-Pekka E. , Tikkanen Heikki O. , Koponen Anne S. , Aho Jyrki M. , Peltonen Juha E.
Published: November 2017

Adaptations to long-term exercise training in type 1 diabetes are sparsely studied. We examined the effects of a 1-year individualized training intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness, exercise-induced active muscle deoxygenation, and glycemic control in adults with and without type 1 diabetes. Eight men with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 8 healthy men (CON) matched for age, anthropometry, and peak pulmonary O2 uptake, completed a 1-year individualized training intervention in an unsupervised real-world setting. Before and after the intervention, the subjects performed a maximal incremental cycling test, during which alveolar gas exchange (volume turbine and mass spectrometry) and relative concentration changes in active leg muscle deoxygenated (Δ[HHb]) and total (Δ[tHb]) hemoglobin (near-infrared spectroscopy) were monitored. Peak O2 pulse, reflecting peak stroke volume, was calculated (peak pulmonary O2 uptake/peak heart rate). Glycemic control (glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)) was evaluated. Both T1D and CON averagely performed 1 resistance-training and 3–4 endurance-training sessions per week (∼1 h/session at ∼moderate intensity). Training increased peak pulmonary O2 uptake in T1D (p = 0.004) and CON (p = 0.045) (group × time p = 0.677). Peak O2 pulse also rose in T1D (p = 0.032) and CON (p = 0.018) (group × time p = 0.880). Training increased leg Δ[HHb] at peak exercise in CON (p = 0.039) but not in T1D (group × time p = 0.052), while no changes in leg Δ[tHb] at any work rate were observed in either group (p > 0.05). HbA1c retained unchanged in T1D (from 58 ± 10 to 59 ± 11 mmol/mol, p = 0.609). In conclusion, 1-year adherence to exercise training enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness similarly in T1D and CON but had no effect on active muscle deoxygenation or glycemic control in T1D.
Predation by introduced fish can magnify the terrestrial arthropod subsidies in mountain lakes
Authors: Rolla Matteo , Biffoni Geordie , Brighenti Stefano , Iacobuzio Rocco , Liautaud Kevin , Pasquaretta Cristian , Tiberti Rocco
Published: November 2017

A portion of the terrestrial subsidies to lentic habitats consists of arthropods. In high mountain, originally fishless lakes, terrestrial arthropods are an important seasonal food resource for introduced fish. Here we investigate how brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) can alter the input of terrestrial arthropods in 10 high mountain lakes contrasting for their stocking history (with and without fish or manipulated for fish eradication). We used a food consumption model to calculate the minimum and maximum number or biomass of arthropods consumed by fish, and we found that they can exceed, by several folds, the number or biomass of arthropods sinking into the lakes, at least under the metabolic rates expected for fish for most of the summer. We interpret this result as an indirect indication that arthropods usually cannot overcome the surface tension at the lake surface and that fish can work as a vector across the water–air interface. We infer that pathways for dead and live arthropods to leave the lakes do exist and fish can transfer into the water column many arthropods whose fate was leaving the lakes, which may have overlooked ecological and conservation implications.
Postprocessing Algorithm for Driving Conventional Scanning Tunneling Microscope at Fast Scan Rates
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Xianqi , Chen Yunmei , Park Jewook , Li An-Ping , Zhang X.-G.
Published: November 2017

We present an image postprocessing framework for Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) to reduce the strong spurious oscillations and scan line noise at fast scan rates and preserve the features, allowing an order of magnitude increase in the scan rate without upgrading the hardware. The proposed method consists of two steps for large scale images and four steps for atomic scale images. For large scale images, we first apply for each line an image registration method to align the forward and backward scans of the same line. In the second step we apply a “rubber band” model which is solved by a novel Constrained Adaptive and Iterative Filtering Algorithm (CIAFA). The numerical results on measurement from copper(111) surface indicate the processed images are comparable in accuracy to data obtained with a slow scan rate, but are free of the scan drift error commonly seen in slow scan data. For atomic scale images, an additional first step to remove line-by-line strong background fluctuations and a fourth step of replacing the postprocessed image by its ranking map as the final atomic resolution image are required. The resulting image restores the lattice image that is nearly undetectable in the original fast scan data.
Mechanism of Subordinate Peak Skewing of FBG Sensor during Cracks Propagation Monitoring on Aluminum Alloy Structure
Authors: Jin Bo , Zhang Weifang , Ren Feifei , Zhang Meng , Dai Wei , Wang Yanrong
Published: November 2017

This study investigates the variety of the spectra features of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) around the crack tip during fatigue crack propagation. The study results reveal that the turning of the subordinate peak is significantly associated with crack lengths and corresponds to strain gradient along the FBG. Meanwhile, the strain distribution sensed by the FBG changes with the sensing section of the grating. FBG sensors could observe the monotonic plastic zone ahead of the fatigue crack tip. The cubic strain is distributed along the grating, with monotonic plastic zone propagation at the initial and terminal part of the grating, at approximately a 30% ratio of the entire grating. However, the monotonic plastic zone is sensed by the FBG, at ±15% bias of the grating center, with the quadratic strain gradient pattern along the grating. In particular, when the initial and terminal parts of the grating experience highly inhomogeneous strain distribution, the spectrum distortion occurs.
Plasmablastic Lymphoma with Coexistence of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report and Mini-Review
Authors: Hatzimichael Eleftheria , Papathanasiou Konstantina , Zerdes Ioannis , Flindris Stefanos , Papoudou-Bai Alexandra , Kapsali Eleni
Published: November 2017

Background. Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is a rare, aggressive B-cell lymphoma with poor prognosis usually found in the oral cavity of HIV-positive patients. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an indolent B-cell lymphoma with a variable clinical course. Transformation of CLL to PBL as Richter’s syndrome is rare while coexistence of CLL and PBL at diagnosis is even rarer.Case Report. We describe a case of a male immunocompetent patient with an ileum-cecum valve mass and a soft tissue mass at the left humerus with histologic evidence of PBL with coexistence of CLL in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. Amputation of the patient’s left arm was inevitable, and the patient was started on bortezomib and dexamethasone. However, prolonged hospitalization was complicated by aspiration pneumonia, and the patient passed away.Conclusions. No standard of care exists for patients with PBL, and prognosis remains dismal. Concomitant presentation of hematological malignancies becomes increasingly recognized, and further insight is needed in order to delineate whether they originate from the same clone or from different ones.
Preventive Effect and Safety of a Follicle Stimulating Hormone Inhibitory Formulation Containing a Mixture of Coicis Semen and Artemisia capillaris for Precocious Puberty: A Preliminary Experimental Study Using Female Rats
Authors: Trinh Tuy An , Park Seung Chan , Oh Jihong , Kim Chang-Eop , Kang Ki Sung , Yoo Hwa Seung , Lee Hye Lim
Published: November 2017

Background. Precocious puberty is a common endocrine disease in children. Inappropriate activation of hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis leads to the development of secondary sexual characteristics at an earlier age than normal children and causes short stature in adulthood. Objectives. The aim of this study is to evaluate the preventive effects of a herbal formulation containing a mixture of Coicis Semen and Artemisia capillaris (hEIF extract) on precocious puberty. Methods. The preventive effect of hEIF extract on precocious puberty in rats was evaluated by measuring blood component after 3 weeks of treatment via oral administration. Network pharmacological analyses were performed to predict the bioactive components of hEIF extract. Results. In vivo studies showed that hEIF extract significantly reduced follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. After treatment with 200 mg/kg of hEIF extract, the FSH level was 5.33 ± 1.10 ng/mL, whereas the FSH level in the vehicle group was 46.73 ± 0.80 ng/mL. Moreover, the use of hEIF extract did not stimulate body growth and bone accretion in rats. The network pharmacological analysis led to the identification of multiple targets of hEIF extract related to lipolysis and the female sex hormone‐related pathways. Conclusion. hEIF extract can be used as an FSH inhibitor for the treatment of precocious puberty.
Recent Studies on the Speciation and Determination of Mercury in Different Environmental Matrices Using Various Analytical Techniques
Authors: Suvarapu Lakshmi Narayana , Baek Sung-Ok
Published: November 2017

This paper reviews the current research on the speciation and determination of mercury by various analytical techniques, including the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), voltammetry, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), ICP-mass spectrometry (MS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), spectrophotometry, spectrofluorometry, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Approximately 96 research papers on the speciation and determination of mercury by various analytical instruments published in international journals since 2015 were reviewed. All analytical parameters, including the limits of detection, linearity range, quality assurance and control, applicability, and interfering ions, evaluated in the reviewed articles were tabulated. In this review, we found a lack of information in speciation studies of mercury in recent years. Another important conclusion from this review was that there were few studies regarding the concentration of mercury in the atmosphere.
Multiband Radar Signal Coherent Processing Algorithm for Motion Target
Authors: Wang Tingjing , Zhang Ying , Zhao Hua , Zhang Yanxin
Published: November 2017

In real application, most aerial targets are movable. In this paper, an effective multiple subbands coherent processing method is proposed for moving target. Firstly, an echoed signal model of motion target based on geometrical theory of diffraction is established and the influence of velocity on range profile of the target is analyzed. Secondly, a method based on minimum entropy principle is used to compensate velocity. Then, incoherent factors including a quadratic phase term, a linear phase factor, a fixed factor, and an amplitude difference term are analyzed. Subsequently, efficient methods are applied to estimate other incoherent factors, except that the quadratic term is small enough to be ignored. Finally, the feasibility and performance of the proposed method are investigated through numerical simulation.
Evaluation of the Osteoblast Behavior to PGA Textile Functionalized with RGD as a Scaffold for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Ortiz Mariné , Escobar-Garcia Diana María , Álvarez-Pérez Marco Antonio , Pozos-Guillén Amaury , Grandfils Christian , Flores Héctor
Published: November 2017

The new era of biomaterials for repairing bone tissue injury continues to be a challenge in bone tissue engineering. The fiber scaffolds allow for cellular interconnection and a microenvironment close to the bone extracellular matrix. The aim of this study was to evaluate the osteoblast behavior on a 3D textile of PGA (polyglycolic acid) fibers functionalized with the RGD (R: arginine; G: glycine; D: aspartic acid) peptide. The cell morphology, proliferation, and calcium phosphate deposition ability were evaluated on textiles at different time intervals under a confocal laser scanning microscope. The osteoblast viability ranged from 92% to 98%, and cell proliferation was higher in PGA-RGD than control PGA (uncoated). In addition, the osteoblast calcium phosphate deposition was significantly greater on PGA-RGD in osteogenic inductor medium (OIM) in contrast to controls without inducing factors. The PGA-RGD fibers supported proliferation and viability of osteoblast and stimulated bone osteogenesis and mineralization. These results support the adoption of this 3D polymeric textile as a scaffold for bone tissue engineering.
Antilipotoxicity Activity of Osmanthus fragrans and Chrysanthemum morifolium Flower Extracts in Hepatocytes and Renal Glomerular Mesangial Cells
Authors: Tsai Po-Jung , Chang Mei-Ling , Hsin Ching-Mei , Chuang Chung-Chieh , Chuang Lu-Te , Wu Wen-Huey
Published: November 2017

The excess influx of free fatty acids (FFAs) into nonadipose tissues, such as those of liver and kidney, induces lipotoxicity leading to hepatic steatosis and renal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of methanolic flower extracts of Osmanthus fragrans (OF) and Chrysanthemum morifolium (CM) against FFA-induced lipotoxicity in hepatocytes (human HepG2 cells) and renal glomerular mesangial cells (mouse SV40-Mes13 cells). The results showed that OF and CM significantly suppressed FFA-induced intracellular triacylglycerol accumulation via partially inhibiting the gene expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) in HepG2 cells. Both extracts inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by FFA-stimulated HepG2 cells. OF and CM also suppressed the mRNA expression of interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, and transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β by HepG2 cells treated with conditioned medium derived from lipopolysaccharide-treated THP-1 monocytes. Furthermore, OF and CM effectively inhibited oleate-induced cellular lipid accumulation, TGF-β secretion, and overexpression of fibronectin in mesangial cells. In conclusion, OF and CM possess hepatoprotective activity by inhibiting hepatic fat load and inflammation and renal protection by preventing FFA-induced mesangial extracellular matrix formation.
Changes in Nitric Oxide Releases of the Contralateral Acupoint during and after Laser Acupuncture at Bilateral Same‐Name Acupoints in Human
Authors: Jiang Wan-Ling , Wei Hua-Jiang , Guo Zhou-Yi , Ni Yi-Rong , Yang Hong-Qin , Xie Shu-Sen
Published: November 2017

Objective. The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of laser acupuncture (LA) at right Neiguan (RPC6)/left Neiguan (LPC6) acupoints on the releases of nitric oxide (NO) in the treated and contralateral/nontreated PC6, compared to the nonacupoint control area. Methods. 24 mW LA at RPC6, LPC6, and nonacupoint in 22 healthy subjects for 40 min: sterilized dialysis tube was taped to the nontreated PC6/nonacupoint during the treatment and immediately taped to the treated and nontreated PC6/nonacupoint after LA removal. NO‐scavenging compound was injected into the tube for 40 min to absorb the molecular which was tested by spectrophotometry in a blinded fashion. Results. LA‐induced NO releases over PC6 acupoints for the nontreated and treated sides all significantly increased after LA removal, but for the nontreated acupoints they did not change during LA stimulation. LA at RPC6 induced the more release of the NO at contralateral side than stimulating LPC6, but not on nonacupoints. The results suggest that LA‐induced NO release over contralateral acupoint and NO release resulting from the lateralized specificity all are different and specific to the acupoint within different time course. Conclusions. LA‐evoked NO release over acupoints could improve the neurogenic, endothelial activity of the vessel wall to further facilitate microcirculation.
The Difficult Evolution of Intensive Cardiac Care Units: An Overview of the BLITZ-3 Registry and Other Italian Surveys
Authors: Casella Gianni , Zagnoni Silvia , Fradella Giuseppe , Scorcu Giampaolo , Chinaglia Alessandra , Pavesi Pier Camillo , Di Pasquale Giuseppe , Oltrona Visconti Luigi
Published: November 2017

Coronary care units, initially developed to treat acute myocardial infarction, have moved to the care of a broader population of acute cardiac patients and are currently defined as Intensive Cardiac Care Units (ICCUs). However, very limited data are available on such evolution. Since 2008, in Italy, several surveys have been designed to assess ICCUs’ activities. The largest and most comprehensive of these, the BLITZ-3 Registry, observed that patients admitted are mainly elderly males and suffer from several comorbidities. Direct admission to ICCUs through the Emergency Medical System was rather rare. Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) account for more than half of the discharge diagnoses. However, numbers of acute heart failure (AHF) admissions are substantial. Interestingly, age, resources availability, and networking have a strong influence on ICCUs’ epidemiology and activities. In fact, while patients with ACS concentrate in ICCUs with interventional capabilities, older patients with AHF or non-ACS, non-AHF cardiac diseases prevail in peripheral ICCUs. In conclusion, although ACS is still the core business of ICCUs, aging, comorbidities, increasing numbers of non-ACS, technological improvements, and resources availability have had substantial effects on epidemiology and activities of ICCUs. The Italian surveys confirm these changes and call for a substantial update of ICCUs’ organization and competences.
Vitamin E‐Mediated Modulation of Glutamate Receptor Expression in an Oxidative Stress Model of Neural Cells Derived from Embryonic Stem Cell Cultures
Authors: Abd Jalil Afifah , Khaza’ai Huzwah , Nordin Norshariza , Mansor Nur’izzati , Zaulkffali Amirah Salwani
Published: November 2017

Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Excessive concentrations of glutamate in the brain can be excitotoxic and cause oxidative stress, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. In the present study, the effects of vitamin E in the form of tocotrienol‐rich fraction (TRF) and alpha‐tocopherol (α‐TCP) in modulating the glutamate receptor and neuron injury markers in an in vitro model of oxidative stress in neural‐derived embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures were elucidated. A transgenic mouse ES cell line (46C) was differentiated into a neural lineage in vitro via induction with retinoic acid. These cells were then subjected to oxidative stress with a significantly high concentration of glutamate. Measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was performed after inducing glutamate excitotoxicity, and recovery from this toxicity in response to vitamin E was determined. The gene expression levels of glutamate receptors and neuron‐specific enolase were elucidated using real‐time PCR. The results reveal that neural cells derived from 46C cells and subjected to oxidative stress exhibit downregulation of NMDA, kainate receptor, and NSE after posttreatment with different concentrations of TRF and α‐TCP, a sign of neurorecovery. Treatment of either TRF or α‐TCP reduced the levels of ROS in neural cells subjected to glutamate‐induced oxidative stress; these results indicated that vitamin E is a potent antioxidant.
In VivoPET Imaging of Adenosine 2A Receptors in Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Vuorimaa Anna , Rissanen Eero , Airas Laura
Published: November 2017

Adenosine receptors are G-protein coupled P1 purinergic receptors that are broadly expressed in the peripheral immune system, vasculature, and the central nervous system (CNS). Within the immune system, adenosine 2A (A2A) receptor-mediated signaling exerts a suppressive effect on ongoing inflammation. In healthy CNS,A2Areceptors are expressed mainly within the neurons of the basal ganglia. Alterations inA2Areceptor function and expression have been noted in movement disorders, and in Parkinson’s disease pharmacologicalA2Areceptor antagonism leads to diminished motor symptoms. AlthoughA2Areceptors are expressed only at a low level in the healthy CNS outside striatum, pathological challenge or inflammation has been shown to lead to upregulation ofA2Areceptors in extrastriatal CNS tissue, and this has been successfully quantitated usingin vivopositron emission tomography (PET) imaging andA2Areceptor-binding radioligands. Several radioligands for PET imaging ofA2Areceptors have been developed in recent years, andA2Areceptor-targeting PET imaging may thus provide a potential additional tool to evaluate various aspects of neuroinflammationin vivo. This review article provides a brief overview ofA2Areceptors in healthy brain and in a selection of most important neurological diseases and describes the recent advances inA2Areceptor-targeting PET imaging studies.
Comparative Study on Properties of Polylactic Acid Nanocomposites with Cellulose and Chitin Nanofibers Extracted from Different Raw Materials
Authors: Li Jingjing , Li Jian , Feng Dejun , Zhao Jingfeng , Sun Jingrong , Li Dagang
Published: November 2017

Polylactic acid (PLA) was reinforced with ultralong cellulose and chitin nanofibers extracted from four raw materials by extrusion. The mechanical, rheological, thermal, and viscoelastic performances of four nanocomposites were comparatively studied in detail. The results showed that fibrillation of poplar was much easier than that of cotton, and fibrillation of crab shell was relatively hard as compared to prawn shell. The poplar CNFs/PLA composite exhibited the best mechanical properties among four nanocomposites due to the highest aspect ratio of nanofibers, while both the cotton CNFs/PLA composite and the crab shell CHNFs/PLA composite had low mechanical strength due to the relatively low aspect ratio. FE-SEM images showed that the ultralong nanofibers were uniformly dispersed in PLA matrix for all four samples with the water preblending method. The CTE values of the nanocomposites with 40 wt% nanofibers extracted from poplar, cotton, crab shell, and prawn shell were 69.5 × 10−6 K−1, 79.6 × 10−6 K−1, 77.2 × 10−6 K−1, and 75.3 × 10−6 K−1, respectively. All the results indicated that the aspect ratio of the nanofibers has a great influence on the performance of the composites, irrespective of the composites prepared by cellulose or chitin.
A New Chinese Medicine Intestine Formula Greatly Improves the Effect of Aminosalicylate on Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Liu Baohai , Piao Xuehua , Guo Lianyi , Wang Guijun , Sun Weihua , Gao Leming , Zheng Xuefeng , Fang Yanli
Published: November 2017

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic lifelong inflammatory disorder of the colon. Current medical treatment of UC relies predominantly on the use of traditional drugs, including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants, which failed to effectively control this disease’s progression and produced various side effects. Here, we report a new Chinese medicine intestine formula (CIF) which greatly improved the effect of mesalazine, an aminosalicylate, on UC. In the present study, 60 patients with chronic UC were treated with oral mesalazine alone or in combination with CIF enema. The combination of mesalazine and CIF greatly and significantly improved the clinical symptoms and colon mucosal condition and improved the Mayo Clinic Disease Activity Index and health‐related quality of life, when compared to mesalazine alone. In particular, the addition of CIF further decreased serum levels of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha and hypersensitivity C‐reactive protein but in contrast increased interleukin‐4. Thus, the results demonstrate the beneficial role of CIF in UC treatment, which may be mediated by the regulation of inflammation.
Resource Partitioning between Two Piranhas (Serrasalmus gibbus and Serrasalmus rhombeus) in an Amazonian Reservoir
Authors: Sá-Oliveira Júlio C. , Ferrari Stephen F. , Vasconcelos Huann C. Gentil , Araujo Andrea S. , Costa Campos Carlos E. , Mattos-Dias Claudio A. Gellis , Fecury Amanda A. , Oliveira Euzébio , Mendes-Junior Raimundo N. G. , Isaac Victoria J.
Published: November 2017

The exploitation of resources by closely related species with similar niches may be mediated by differences in activity patterns, which may vary in nycthemeral scale and seasonal scale. Piranhas Serrasalmus gibbus and Serrasalmus rhombeus are Neotropical predators that occur sympatrically in many environments of the Amazon basin. To evaluate the strategies adopted by these two species in a restricted environment (a reservoir), nycthemeral and seasonal samples were made, identifying the composition of the diet and their activity patterns. A total of 402 specimens were collected: 341 S. gibbus and 61 S. rhombeus. Both species fed themselves primarily on fish, with some seasonal variation being found in S. gibbus during the flood season, when plant material was consumed. There was considerable temporal overlap in the foraging behavior of the two species, although S. rhombeus presented a bimodal pattern of abundance over the 24-hour cycle. S. rhombeus was more active during the nighttime, between dusk and early morning, whereas S. gibbus was active throughout the nycthemeral cycle. These findings indicate low levels of competition between the two species, which allowed for a considerable overlap in nighttime foraging, following distinct nycthemeral patterns of foraging activity and allowing their coexistence.
The Quantitative Research of Interaction between Key Parameters and the Effects on Mechanical Property in FDM
Authors: Li Hongbin , Wang Taiyong , Yu Zhiqiang
Published: November 2017

The central composite design (CCD) experiment is conducted to evaluate the interaction between parameters and the effect on mechanical property. The layer thickness, deposition velocity, and air gap are considered as the key factors. Three disparate levels of the parameters are utilized in the experiment. The experimental results suggest that all these parameters can affect the bonding degree of the filaments, which affects the final tensile strength of the specimen. A new numerical model is built to describe the cooling process of the fused filament, which shows a perfect coherence with the practical temperature file of filament. It reveals what the forming mechanism of the bonding between filaments is and how these parameters act on final tensile strength of the specimen of this way from temperature. It is concluded that the parameters are not working alone; in fact they all contribute to determining the mechanical property, while the air gap plays the predominant role in determining the final tensile strength, followed by layer thickness as the next predominant factor, and the effect of deposition velocity is the weakest factor.
Chronic Pelvic Pain: Assessment, Evaluation, and Objectivation
Authors: Passavanti Maria Beatrice , Pota Vincenzo , Sansone Pasquale , Aurilio Caterina , De Nardis Lorenzo , Pace Maria Caterina
Published: November 2017

Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) have a significant impact on men and women of reproductive and nonreproductive age, with a considerable burden on overall quality of life (QoL) and on psychological, functional, and behavioural status. Moreover, diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties are remarkable features in many patients. Therefore evaluation, assessment and objectivation tools are often necessary to properly address each patient and consequently his/her clinical needs. Here we review the different tools for pain assessment, evaluation, and objectivation; specific features regarding CPP/CPPS will be highlighted. Also, recent findings disclosed with neuroimaging investigations will be reviewed as they provide new insights into CPP/CPPS pathophysiology and may serve as a tool for CPP assessment and objectivation.
Building Eminence through Evidence
Authors: Horgan Denis
Published: November 2017

With modern-day medicine going the way it is - new developments, great science, the advent of personalised medicine and more - there's little doubt that healthcare can move in the right direction if everything is put in place to allow it to do so. But in many areas progress is being halted. Or at the very least slowed. Like it or not, many front-line healthcare professionals still do things the way they did things three decades ago, and are reluctant to adapt to new methods (assuming they are aware of them). Evidence exists that today's rapidly developing new medicines and treatments can positively influence healthcare in modern-day Europe, but a gap in education (also applying to patients and politicians), often exacerbated by “fake news” on the internet, is hampering uptake of new and often better methods, while even causing doubts about vaccines. More understanding at every level will inevitably lead to swifter integration of innovation into the healthcare systems of Europe. The time to look, listen and learn has come.
How SpyGlass™ May Impact Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Practice and Patient Management
Authors: Pereira Pedro , Vilas-Boas Filipe , Peixoto Armando , Andrade Patrícia , Lopes Joanne , Macedo Guilherme
Published: November 2017

Introduction: Cholangiopancreatoscopy with SpyGlass™ Direct Visualization System (SGDVS) is being used in specialized centers for improving the sensitivity of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with indeterminate pancreatobiliary strictures (PBS). The aims of this study were to report our initial experience with SGDVS in the evaluation of indeterminate PBS, and discuss the improvements of ERCP brought by this technique in our center. Methods: The usefulness of SGDVS in patients with indeterminate PBS (defined after nondiagnostic previous ERCP with brush cytology) was evaluated in a prospective observational cohort study conducted at a single tertiary biliopancreatic unit. The accuracy of diagnosis by the SGDVS visual findings, SGDVS-guided biopsy, technical success, image quality, change in patient management after the procedure, and complication rate were assessed. Results: In our single-center cohort, there were 13 SGDVS procedures for evaluating indeterminate PBS. Technical success, defined by the ability to progress with the SpyScope to the target lesion, was achieved in all the cases. The diagnostic accuracy of visual findings (87.5%) was superior to SGDVS-guided biopsy (55%). In 11 (85%) procedures, the image quality was considered good. The procedure permitted exclusion of malignancy and avoiding surgery in 9 patients (69%). There were no complications during the procedures. However, in the post-procedure monitoring, 3 patients developed acute pancreatitis (19%) and 2 patients developed acute cholangitis (13%). Conclusion: The SGDVS can be considered useful in the context of indeterminate PBS. The intervention is associated with high procedural success and alters clinical outcome compared to conventional approaches.
Eosinophilic Enterocolitis: An Exceedingly Rare Entity
Authors: Lopes Azevedo Richard José , Pinto João , Ribeiro Helena , Pereira Flávio , Leitão Cátia , Caldeira Ana , Pereira Eduardo , Duarte Banhudo António José
Published: November 2017

Eosinophilic enterocolitis is an exceptionally rare condition with few described cases in the literature, representing the least frequent manifestation of the wide spectrum of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders. We describe a case of a young male patient presenting with a panmural form of the disease, manifested by abdominal pain, distention, and watery diarrhea with 4 days of evolution, bowel wall thickening, and ascites. Eosinophilic ascites is probably the most unusual presentation form of this entity. It poses a diagnostic challenge because of its nonspecific symptoms, associated with the absence of standardized histological criteria, hence requiring a high level of suspicion. There is also no consensus regarding treatment: it should be individualized according to the patient's age and severity of symptoms.
Use of Genetic Testing after Abnormal Screening Ultrasound: A Descriptive Cohort Study
Authors: Ainsworth Alessandra J. , Holman Michelle A. , Codsi Elisabeth  , Wick Myra
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: The study aimed to characterize the use of genetic testing after abnormal screening ultrasound. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing genetic testing after abnormal ultrasound. Genetic evaluation consisted of noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) or amniocentesis. Classification of ultrasound findings, type of genetic testing, and results were collected. Results: A total of 139 subjects underwent genetic evaluation after abnormal screening ultrasound. Screening via NIPS was pursued by 61 (44%) patients while 78 (56%) proceeded directly to amniocentesis. Patients electing for amniocentesis had more cardiac, neurologic, and gastrointestinal malformations while soft markers for aneuploidy prompted more NIPS screening. Results were negative in 85% of the NIPS group compared to 60% of the amniocentesis group. Only 8% of patients who underwent NIPS proceeded to diagnostic testing. Conclusion: Patients pursuing NIPS after abnormal ultrasound had more soft markers of aneuploidy. Patients pursuing diagnostic testing were more likely to have major structural malformations and more total abnormalities identified. Patients who proceeded directly to amniocentesis were more likely to have abnormal genetic testing.
Juan Downey's Ethnographic Present
Authors: Murphy Benjamin
Published: November 2017

Recorded between 1976 and 77, Juan Downey's video experiments with the Yanomami people have been widely celebrated as offering a critique of traditional anthropology through their use of feedback technology. This article argues, however, that close attention to the different feedback situations the artist constructs with the group reveal a more complex relationship between Downey and that discipline. In the enthusiasm he manifests for synchronous, closed-circuit video feedback in many of his statements about his Yanomami project, Downey in fact tacitly affirms some of the most problematic principles of traditional anthropology. In his emphasis on the real-time quality of this particular form of feedback, the artist puts forth a view of Yanomami society as itself synchronous, as a type of homeostatic, changeless system outside of historical time. As such he participates in a synchronic bias that anthropologists of his own time had begun to seriously critique. By focusing on one individual video from the Yanomami project, The Laughing Alligator of 1979, this essay argues that Downey's critical contribution to anthropological debates of his time does not come in the form of synchronous feedback, but rather through a different procedure unique to video technology based on temporal lag, delay, and spacing.
Pop on the Move
Authors: Kitnick Alex
Published: November 2017

In International Pop, the curators Darsie Alexander and Bartholomew Ryan propose a new reading of Pop that establishes a set of relationships marked by difference. Theirs is a world riven by disconnection over flow, in which migrations and networks are frequently translated, blocked, or interrupted. While the US mass media provided source material for many artists it was often reworked to other ends. While many narratives of Pop have stressed distance and irony here we witnessed a new version of the moment that made a virtue out of intimacy, politics, and desire.
A Large-Scale Experimental Evaluation of High-Performing Multi- and Many-Objective Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Bezerra Leonardo C. T. , López-Ibáñez Manuel , Stützle Thomas
Published: November 2017

Research on multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) has produced over the past decades a large number of algorithms and a rich literature on performance assessment tools to evaluate and compare them. Yet, newly proposed MOEAs are typically compared against very few, often a decade older MOEAs. One reason for this apparent contradiction is the lack of a common baseline for comparison, with each subsequent study often devising its own experimental scenario, slightly different from other studies. As a result, the state of the art in MOEAs is a disputed topic. This article reports a systematic, comprehensive evaluation of a large number of MOEAs that covers a wide range of experimental scenarios. A novelty of this study is the separation between the higher-level algorithmic components related to multi-objective optimization (MO), which characterize each particular MOEA, and the underlying parameters—such as evolutionary operators, population size, etc.—whose configuration may be tuned for each scenario. Instead of relying on a common or “default” parameter configuration that may be low-performing for particular MOEAs or scenarios and unintentionally biased, we tune the parameters of each MOEA for each scenario using automatic algorithm configuration methods. Our results confirm some of the assumed knowledge in the field, while at the same time they provide new insights on the relative performance of MOEAs for many-objective problems. For example, under certain conditions, indicator-based MOEAs are more competitive for such problems than previously assumed. We also analyze problem-specific features affecting performance, the agreement between performance metrics, and the improvement of tuned configurations over the default configurations used in the literature. Finally, the data produced is made publicly available to motivate further analysis and a baseline for future comparisons.
A New Framework for Analysis of Coevolutionary Systems—Directed Graph Representation and Random Walks
Authors: Chong Siang Yew , Tiňo Peter , He Jun , Yao Xin
Published: November 2017

Studying coevolutionary systems in the context of simplified models (i.e., games with pairwise interactions between coevolving solutions modeled as self plays) remains an open challenge since the rich underlying structures associated with pairwise-comparison-based fitness measures are often not taken fully into account. Although cyclic dynamics have been demonstrated in several contexts (such as intransitivity in coevolutionary problems), there is no complete characterization of cycle structures and their effects on coevolutionary search. We develop a new framework to address this issue. At the core of our approach is the directed graph (digraph) representation of coevolutionary problems that fully captures structures in the relations between candidate solutions. Coevolutionary processes are modeled as a specific type of Markov chains—random walks on digraphs. Using this framework, we show that coevolutionary problems admit a qualitative characterization: a coevolutionary problem is either solvable (there is a subset of solutions that dominates the remaining candidate solutions) or not. This has an implication on coevolutionary search. We further develop our framework that provides the means to construct quantitative tools for analysis of coevolutionary processes and demonstrate their applications through case studies. We show that coevolution of solvable problems corresponds to an absorbing Markov chain for which we can compute the expected hitting time of the absorbing class. Otherwise, coevolution will cycle indefinitely and the quantity of interest will be the limiting invariant distribution of the Markov chain. We also provide an index for characterizing complexity in coevolutionary problems and show how they can be generated in a controlled manner.
South Atlantic Perspectives on the Future International Legally Binding Instrument under the losc on Conservation and Sustainable Use of bbnj
Authors: Ribeiro Marta Chantal
Published: November 2017

The article focuses on the ocean governance systems of the South Atlantic Ocean aiming to contribute to the on-going debate concerning the development of an international legally binding instrument (ilbi) under the un Convention on the Law of the Sea on conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (bbnj). For this purpose, a broad definition of South Atlantic Ocean has been adopted. The regional treaties and global initiatives relevant for the area are analysed in the context of discussions addressing bbnj. It also evaluated the importance of submissions to the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf concerning the region. The main conclusion is that an ilbi is needed to supplement non-existent or insufficient ocean governance systems in the region and to strengthen and foster the progress of the regional ocean’s governance framework, provided that crucial factors such as transfer of technology and capacity-building are adequately addressed.
Regional Management of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction in the Western Indian Ocean: State of Play and Possible Ways Forward
Authors: Wright Glen , Rochette Julien
Published: November 2017

In recent years, the international community has become increasingly aware of the growing threats to marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (abnj), and international discussions on a new international legally binding are underway. In parallel, some States, through regional organisations, have progressively extended their activities into abnj, particularly through the development of area-based management tools (abmts). In this article, we consider how actors in the Western Indian Ocean (wio) might engage in abnj governance. In particular, we develop some possible scenarios for developing abmts in the wio, including through the development of fisheries closures, the establishment of marine protected areas (mpas), and the adoption of abmts under the auspices of relevant international organisations. We conclude that while the wio is currently not the most advanced region in terms of ongoing efforts to improve the governance of abnj, there are already some positive signals and promising options for the future.
Strengthening Governance Frameworks for Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity in Areas beyond National Jurisdiction: Southern Hemisphere Perspectives
Authors: Warner Robin
Published: November 2017

The southern hemisphere is dominated by oceanic influences with 80% of its surface area consisting of ocean space. It hosts abundant marine biodiversity, which is under increasing pressure from activities such as fisheries and shipping as well as multiple sources of marine pollution and climate change impacts. The process initiated by the un General Assembly Resolution 69/292 to develop the elements of an international legally binding instrument (ilbi) for conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction has the potential to contribute to a more integrated and cross-sectoral system of oceans governance at a global and regional scale. This article examines key features of the existing global and regional ocean governance framework in the southern hemisphere and how the anticipated ilbi might relate to existing ocean governance frameworks.
Aulacoseira glubokoyensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae), a new centric diatom from the Maritime Antarctic region
Authors: OAQUIM ANNA BEATRIZ JONES , MOSER GLEYCI A.O. , EVANGELISTA HEITOR , LICÍNIO MARCUS VINÍCIUS , VAN DE VIJVER BART
Published: November 2017

A new centric diatom, Aulacoseira glubokoyensis sp. nov., is described from the Maritime Antarctic region. The morphology of the species is illustrated using detailed light and scanning electron microscopy observations. Its main discriminating features include the presence of typical irregularly shaped dendritic spines, at least two rimoportulae, marginal striae on the discus and a very large Ringleiste. The new species is compared to similar species worldwide. Aulacoseira glubokoyensis has only been observed in a sediment core taken from Profound Lake on the Fildes Peninsula (King George Island, South Shetland Islands).
Populus luzae (Salicaceae), a new species of white poplar endemic to the western Transmexican Volcanic Belt, in Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: VÁZQUEZ-GARCÍA J. ANTONIO , MUÑIZ-CASTRO MIGUEL ÁNGEL , PADILLA-LEPE JESÚS , PULIDO ÁVILA MARÍA GUADALUPE , NIEVES HERNÁNDEZ GREGORIO , MARTÍNEZ GONZÁLEZ ROSA ELENA
Published: November 2017

Populus luzae, a new species of white poplar from the western Transmexican Volcanic Belt, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico, is described and illustrated. Populus luzae belongs to section Populus and is morphologically close to P. guzmanantlensis, but it differs from the latter in having smaller size and soboliferous habit, narrower twigs and petioles, ovate to ovate-deltoid and chartaceous leaf blades, adaxial leaf surface with less depressed veins, abaxial surface puberulent, thrice smaller ovate male bracteoles with entire margin, twice longer female bracteoles sparsely denticulate but none lobed, smaller number of pistillate flowers, capsules pubescent, twice longer mature male inflorescence, and a lax and longer infrutescence.
Aloe belitsakensis (Asphodelaceae): a new species from north-western Madagascar
Authors: RAKOTOARISOA SOLOFO E. , GRACE OLWEN M.
Published: November 2017

Madagascar is a major centre of diversity for the leaf-succulent genus Aloe Linnaeus (1753: 319) accounting for roughly a third of Aloe species (Carter et al. 2011). Approximately 128 species and 161 taxa are known from the region and all are restricted to Madagascar (Rakotoarisoa et al. 2014) and/or the nearby Mascarene archipelago. New taxa are described from these islands at a rate that rivals the ongoing discovery of aloes elsewhere in their natural range, on the African continent or Arabian Peninsula (Crouch et al. 2013). Extinction risks are alarmingly high among species of Aloe in this region. Conservatively, 39% of species are known to be threatened, and this figure is likely to be significantly higher (Rakotoarisoa et al. 2014), since several species have not been observed or collected for many decades. The Kew Madagascar Conservation Centre (KMCC) aims to record and collect the rare and threatened flora of Madagascar to ensure its conservation, and the genus Aloe is a priority for the dryland programme.
On the synonymy of some taxa of the genus Xylena Hübner (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Authors: SALDAITIS AIDAS , VOLYNKIN ANTON V. , BENEDEK BALÁZS
Published: November 2017

Xylena czernilai Volynkin, 2011 was described on the base of a single male from the Russian Altai Mts. (Volynkin 2011). Later, two externally similar taxa, Xylena alexander Benedek, Babics & Saldaitis, 2013 and Xylena andreas Benedek, Babics & Saldaitis, 2013 were described from Sichuan province, China each on the base of a single female (Benedek et al. 2013). In the same year, a female of X. czernilai was described by Volynkin & Knyazev (2013). The female genitalia of X. czernilai are surprisingly similar to those of the both Chinese species therefore we decided to use a DNA analysis to clarify the status of these three taxa. For the analysis we sampled a female of X. czernilai from the Russian Altai, a male of X. czernilai from the Russian Far East and the holotypes of X. alexander and X. andreas. The analysis of COI barcodes of the sampled specimens has shown that X. alexander and X. andreas are conspecific (the difference is 0.15 %), and their COI sequences differ from those of X. czernilai in 0.93 % only. Such difference is too small to treat Chinese populations as a distinct species (for example, the difference between X. czernilai and its closest relative X. vetusta (Hübner, [1813]) is 4.61% . The detailed morphological comparison of czernilai and vetusta has been given by Volynkin (2011) (Fig. 1) therefore here we synonymize X. alexander and X. andreas with X. czernilai.