bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Ejector Location in Absorption Refrigeration Cycles Using Different Binary Working Fluids
Authors: Yosaf Salem , Ozcan Hasan
Published: December 2018

In this study, three novel modifications of ejector-absorption refrigeration cycles (E-ARC) are investigated to evaluate the effect of ejector location on cycle performances. In the first modification (triple pressure level absorption refrigeration cycle TPL-ARC), the ejector is located at the evaporator inlet. In the second modification (double ejector absorption refrigeration cycle DE-ARC), two ejectors are used; one is located at the evaporator inlet and the other at the absorber inlet, which are coupled to each other. In the third modification (low pressure condenser absorption refrigeration cycle LPC-ARC), the steam ejector is installed at the downstream of the vapor generator discharging line. An additional flow splitter is integrated to the steam ejector outlet and part of the vapor is extracted and returned to the absorber at a pressure equal to the diffuser pressure. Effect of ejector location on thermodynamic performances are evaluated considering three different working fluids, namely ammonia–water solution (NH3–H2O), lithium bromide-water solution (H2O–LiBr), and lithium chloride–water solution (H2O–LiCl). Even though all three configurations enhance the conventional absorption refrigeration cycle (C-ARC) performances, the LPC-ARCs work at high temperature and improve the cycle performance. The TPL-ARC proves to improve the COP and exergy efficiency up to 9.14% and 7.61%, respectively, presenting the highest thermodynamic performance enhancement and lowest operating temperature.
Theoretical Parametric Study of Wrap-Around Heat Pipe (WAHP) in Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Sarkar Mridul
Published: December 2018

Warp-around heat pipes (WAHP) belong to a special class of recuperative heat exchangers that transfer heat from inlet to outlet locations via thermal gradient, without using any energy. In the present work, effects of various mechanical parameters on the performance of a WAHP dehumidifier system that are based on the underlying principles of heat and mass conservation are presented primarily from a theoretical point of view. A simplified methodology pertaining to wet cooling coils is applied here for defining the case of moisture condensation during precooling process at WAHP evaporator. Inlet air temperature, inlet humidity ratio, air mass flow rate, dehumidifier outlet temperature and effectiveness are the main operational parameters considered in this study. On the other hand, comparative performance study of the WAHP system is done through an other set of thermodynamic parameters like the supply air temperature, supply humidity ratio, specific coil load and recovered enthalpy. The subtle variations in these factors against the operational parameters not only help in stipulating functional characteristics of the WAHP but also allow HVAC designers to make informed decisions for system design and performance without relying entirely on manufacturer’s equipment data.
Probing Radio Intensity at High-Z from Marion: 2017 Instrument
Authors: Philip L. , Abdurashidova Z. , Chiang H. C. , Ghazi N. , Gumba A. , Heilgendorff H. M. , Jáuregui-García J. M. , Malepe K. , Nunhokee C. D. , Peterson J. , Sievers J. L. , Simes V. , Spann R.
Published: December 2018

We introduce Probing Radio Intensity at high-Z from Marion (PRIZM), a new experiment designed to measure the globally averaged sky brightness, including the expected redshifted 21[Formula: see text]cm neutral hydrogen absorption feature arising from the formation of the first stars. PRIZM consists of two dual-polarization antennas operating at central frequencies of 70 and 100[Formula: see text]MHz, and the experiment is located on Marion Island in the sub-Antarctic. We describe the initial design and configuration of the PRIZM instrument that was installed in 2017, and we present preliminary data that demonstrate that Marion Island offers an exceptionally clean observing environment, with essentially no visible contamination within the FM band.
Look Closely, the Beautiful May Be Small: Precursor-Derived Peptides in Plants
Authors: Olsson Vilde , Joos Lisa , Zhu Shanshuo , Gevaert Kris , Butenko Melinka A. , De Smet Ive
Published: December 2018

During the past decade, a flurry of research focusing on the role of peptides as short- and long-distance signaling molecules in plant cell communication has been undertaken. Here, we focus on peptides derived from nonfunctional precursors, and we address several key questions regarding peptide signaling. We provide an overview of the regulatory steps involved in producing a biologically active peptide ligand that can bind its corresponding receptor(s) and discuss how this binding and subsequent activation lead to specific cellular outputs. We discuss different experimental approaches that can be used to match peptide ligands with their receptors. Lastly, we explore how peptides evolved from basic signaling units regulating essential processes in plants to more complex signaling systems as new adaptive traits developed and how nonplant organisms exploit this signaling machinery by producing peptide mimics.
Thermodynamics in Single-Electron Circuits and Superconducting Qubits
Authors: Pekola J.P. , Khaymovich I.M.
Published: December 2018

Classical and quantum electronic circuits provide ideal platforms to investigate stochastic thermodynamics, and they have served as a stepping stone to realize Maxwell's Demons with highly controllable protocols. In this article, we first review the central thermal phenomena in quantum nanostructures. Thermometry and basic refrigeration methods are described as enabling tools for thermodynamics experiments. Next, we discuss the role of information in thermodynamics that leads to the concept of Maxwell's Demon. Various Maxwell's Demons realized in single-electron circuits over the past couple of years are described. Currently, true quantum thermodynamics in superconducting circuits is a focus of attention, and we end the review by discussing the ideas and first experiments in this exciting area of research.
Dynamics in the Uppermost Lower Mantle: Insights into the Deep Mantle Water Cycle Based on the Numerical Modeling of Subducted Slabs and Global-Scale Mantle Dynamics
Authors: Nakagawa Takashi , Nakakuki Tomoeki
Published: December 2018

In this review, we address the current status of numerical modeling of the mantle transition zone and uppermost lower mantle, focusing on the hydration mechanism in these areas. The main points are as follows: ( a) Slab stagnation and penetration may play significant roles in transporting the water in the whole mantle, and ( b) a huge amount of water could be absorbed into the deep mantle to preserve the surface seawater over the geologic timescale. However, for further understanding of water circulation in the deep planetary interior, more mineral physics investigations are required to reveal the mechanism of water absorption in the lower mantle and thermochemical interaction across the core–mantle boundary region, which can provide information on material properties to the geodynamics community. Moreover, future investigations should focus on determining the amount of water in the early planetary interior, as suggested by the planetary formation theory of rocky planets. Moreover, the supplying mechanism of water during planetary formation and its evolution caused by plate tectonics are still essential issues because, in geodynamics modeling, a huge amount of water seems to be required to preserve the surface seawater in the present day and to not be dependent on an initial amount of water in Earth's system. ▪ Slab stagnation and penetration of the hydrous lithosphere are essential for understanding the global-scale material circulation. ▪ Thermal feedback caused by water-dependent viscosity is a main driving mechanism of water absorption in the mantle transition zone and uppermost lower mantle. ▪ The hydrous state in the early rocky planets remains to be determined from cosmo- and geochemistry and planetary formation theory. ▪ Volatile cycles in the deep planetary interior may affect the evolution of the surface environment.
The Sedimentary Cycle on Early Mars
Authors: McLennan Scott M. , Grotzinger John P. , Hurowitz Joel A. , Tosca Nicholas J.
Published: December 2018

Two decades of intensive research have demonstrated that early Mars ([Formula: see text]2 Gyr) had an active sedimentary cycle, including well-preserved stratigraphic records, understandable within a source-to-sink framework with remarkable fidelity. This early cycle exhibits first-order similarities to (e.g., facies relationships, groundwater diagenesis, recycling) and first-order differences from (e.g., greater aeolian versus subaqueous processes, basaltic versus granitic provenance, absence of plate tectonics) Earth's record. Mars’ sedimentary record preserves evidence for progressive desiccation and oxidation of the surface over time, but simple models for the nature and evolution of paleoenvironments (e.g., acid Mars, early warm and wet versus late cold and dry) have given way to the view that, similar to Earth, different climate regimes on Mars coexisted on regional scales and evolved on variable timescales, and redox chemistry played a pivotal role. A major accomplishment of Mars exploration has been to demonstrate that surface and subsurface sedimentary environments were both habitable and capable of preserving any biological record. ▪ Mars has an ancient sedimentary rock record with many similarities to but also many differences from Earth's sedimentary rock record. ▪ Mars’ ancient sedimentary cycle shows a general evolution toward more desiccated and oxidized surficial conditions. ▪ Climatic regimes of early Mars were relatively clement but with regional variations leading to different sedimentary mineral assemblages. ▪ Surface and subsurface sedimentary environments on early Mars were habitable and capable of preserving any biological record that may have existed.
Phytochemical Benefits of Agroresidues as Alternative Nutritive Dietary Resource for Pig and Poultry Farming
Authors: Achilonu Matthew , Shale Karabo , Arthur Georgina , Naidoo Kuben , Mbatha Michael
Published: December 2018

The growing world population is challenging the animal products supply system, particularly in developing countries, where demand for meat and milk in 2050 is estimated to increase to 109% and 116%, respectively, amidst deteriorating livestock feed sources. Globally, adequate production and availability of animal feed products to subsistence farmers has been declining due to factors such as global warming, growth in population, and low economic growth. This paper seeks to examine the existing scientific literature on the utilization of some unconventional feed resources, to abate the challenge of feed deficit and thus improve animal nutrition. The use of fruit waste and agricultural farm residues affords alternative, nutritive livestock dietary supplements; it has been proven they contain a spectrum of vital bioactive phytochemicals essential for sustainable growth and development of animals. The biochemical composition of the plant wastes and residues include carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, and fatty acids, while the common bioactive phytochemicals are polyphenols, alkaloids, carotenoids, and flavonoids, along with tannins, terpenes, and saponins, which play vital roles in reducing disease-causing agents, such as bacteria, viruses, and free radical-associated diseases. The phytochemicals exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-parasitic and antiprotozoal properties. However, it is important to guard against antinutritive and toxicity levels in animal feed products. The paper concludes that agroresidues’/wastes’ nutritive and therapeutic potential could serve as alternative livestock feed resource, while also acting as additional job and income generator for communities.
Effect of BMI and Its Optimal Cut-Off Value in Identifying Hypertension in Uyghur and Han Chinese: A Biethnic Study from the China National Health Survey (CNHS)
Authors: He Huijing , Pa Lize , Pan Li , Simayi Adili , Mu Hebuli , Abudurexiti Yashengjiang , Tao Ning , Shan Guangliang
Published: December 2018

Objective. The effect of adiposity on hypertension among Uyghur Chinese is not clear. This study aimed to compare the effect of BMI and its optimal cut-off value in identifying hypertension in Uyghur and Han adults in China. Methods. By using a multistage stratified sampling method, 3072 Uyghur and 3195 Han adults underwent questionnaire interview, physical examination, and biochemical tests. Age- and sex-standardized prevalence of hypertension was calculated. Adjusted odds ratios for adiposity associated with hypertension were estimated. ROC analyses were used for assessing the ethnic and sex specific optimal BMI cut-off values in identifying hypertension. Results. Both in Uyghur and Han, increased BMI was consistent with the elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Although more Uyghur were overweight/obese, their standardized prevalence of hypertension (17.87%) was lower than that of Han (20.28%). Han adults had 1.42 times odds than Uyghur of hypertension. The adjusted ORs of overweight and obesity were 2.67 and 6.04 in Uyghur and 2.74 and 7.58 in Han. In male, the optimal cut-off values of BMI identifying hypertension in Uyghur and Han were 24.6 kg/m2 and 24.9 kg/m2 , respectively, but the correspond values in Uyghur and Han females were 27.2 kg/m2 and 25.0 kg/m2. Conclusions. Adiposity had strong effect on hypertension, but this effect was less strong in Uyghur female than in Han female.
The Prevalence and Severity of Tooth Wear in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Srisilapanan Patcharawan , Jindarat Matee , Roseman Jeffrey
Published: December 2018

Objective. To assess the prevalence and severity of tooth wear in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods. Attendees at a diabetic clinic at Wiang Pa Pao Hospital in Chiang Rai province, Thailand, were invited to take part in this cross-sectional study. All participants were aged 35–74 and had type 2 diabetes. Participants were required to have been diagnosed with diabetes for at least three months. 179 subjects accepted a clinical oral examination and completed the questionnaire. Tooth wear was assessed clinically using the Smith and Knight Tooth Wear Index. Results. The mean age of diabetic patients was 56.5 ± 7.8 years. The majority (44.1%) had diabetes more than 5 years. The average years of having had diabetes was 6.5 ± 6.3 years. The most prevalent type of tooth wear was attrition (99.4%). The prevalence of erosion, abrasion, and abfraction were 64.8%, 31.3%, and 7.3%, respectively. The majority of the tooth wear was moderate to high severity (62.1%). Erosion and abfraction showed significant association with age group (p<0.05). Age group was significantly associated with the severity level (p=0.017). Mild tooth wear severity was the highest in age groups 35–44 and 45–54 (53.8% and 41.2%, respectively). Moderate tooth wear was the highest proportion in age groups 55–65 and 65–74 (52.2% and 44.0%, respectively). There were no significant differences between specific diabetic symptoms and types of tooth wear. Conclusion. There was a high prevalence of tooth wear among diabetic patients. The role of prevention is vital in maintaining the integrity of the teeth and to avoid treating these worn teeth in diabetic patients.
Multiple Linear Regression Analysis of lncRNA–Disease Association Prediction Based on Clinical Prognosis Data
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Jing
Published: December 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have an important role in various life processes of the body, especially cancer. The analysis of disease prognosis is ignored in current prediction on lncRNA–disease associations. In this study, a multiple linear regression model was constructed for lncRNA–disease association prediction based on clinical prognosis data (MlrLDAcp), which integrated the cancer data of clinical prognosis and the expression quantity of lncRNA transcript. MlrLDAcp could realize not only cancer survival prediction but also lncRNA–disease association prediction. Ultimately, 60 lncRNAs most closely related to prostate cancer survival were selected from 481 alternative lncRNAs. Then, the multiple linear regression relationship between the prognosis survival of 176 patients with prostate cancer and 60 lncRNAs was also given. Compared with previous studies, MlrLDAcp had a predominant survival predictive ability and could effectively predict lncRNA–disease associations. MlrLDAcp had an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.875 for survival prediction and an AUC value of 0.872 for lncRNA–disease association prediction. It could be an effective biological method for biomedical research.
Bifidobacterium lactisAmeliorates the Risk of Food Allergy in Chinese Children by Affecting Relative Percentage of Treg and Th17 Cells
Authors: Liu Qingbin , Jing Wei , Wang Wei
Published: December 2018

We aimed to explore the therapeutic effect ofBifidobacterium lactison food allergy by investigating the percentage of Treg and Th17 cells in Chinese children and related molecular mechanisms. A total of 256 children with food allergy were evenly assigned into two groups: BG, the children received 10 mlB. lactis(1 × 106/ml) daily, and CG, the children received the solution withoutB. lactisdaily for three months. Allergic symptoms, serum IgE, and food antigen-specific IgE were measured. A mouse allergy model was established by using shrimp tropomyosin and treated withB. lactis. Relative mRNA levels of Treg- and Th17-associated cytokines were measured by using quantitative PCR. The percentage of Treg and Th17 cells in spleen were measured by using flow cytometry. After 3-month therapy, the allergic symptoms of the BG were remarkably reduced when compared with the CG (P<0.05). Serum levels of IgE and food antigen-specific IgE were decreased too (P<0.05). Similar results were also found in a mouse allergy model. AfterB. lactistreatment, the relative mRNA level of FoxP3 was significantly enhanced in theB. lactistherapy group when compared to positive controls. In addition, relative mRNA levels of FoxP3 and TGF-βassociated with Treg cells were increased, whereas relative mRNA levels of IL-17A and IL-23 associated with Th17 were reduced.B. lactistreatment significantly increased the ratio of Treg and Th17 cells in a mouse allergy model (P<0.05).B. lactiseffectively alleviates allergic symptoms by increasing the ratio of Treg and Th17 cells.
Fundamental Fresh State Properties of Self‐Consolidating Concrete: A Meta‐Analysis of Mix Designs
Authors: Garcia-Taengua Emilio
Published: December 2018

The study reported in this paper is the first meta‐analysis aimed at obtaining statistical models for the fresh state behavior of self‐consolidating concrete (SCC) mixes which effectively reproduce the complex relationships between mix design and fresh state performance. A database compiled with data from more than 120 different sources was analyzed. This study proves that SCC fresh state performance is determined by three fundamental, uncorrelated properties: flow time, flow spread, and resistance to segregation, which constitute a robust mathematical framework for the optimization of SCC mixes. The models obtained for these fundamental properties have proved consistent and reproduce very well the general trends and interactions implicit in SCC mix design recommendations, which in effect constitute the mathematical validation of recommendations well sanctioned by practice. It has been proved that, if no supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are used, there is a remarkably narrow margin in which the three fundamental properties of fresh SCC mixes can be simultaneously optimized. The most stable mixes were found to be associated with sand‐to‐coarse aggregate ratios of at least 1.1. The flowability of SCC mixes in terms of both flow times and flow spread can be optimized when the following conditions concur: w/c ratio of 0.45, SCMs content below 100 kg/m3, and sand content not lower than 750 kg/m3. Furthermore, it was also proved that, in general, it is best to keep the dosages of superplasticizers (HRWRs) and viscosity‐modifying agents (VMAs) below 1.7% and 0.7%, respectively, subject of course to variation across the different types of products available.
Lack of Association between Interleukin-1βGene Polymorphism (rs16944) and Chronic Periodontitis: From a Case-Control Studies to an Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hong Seoung-Jin , Kang Sang Wook , Kim Su Kang , Kim Young Sik , Ban Ju Yeon
Published: December 2018

Background. Interleukin-1β(IL-1β) plays an important role as a mediator of various inflammatory responses in chronic periodontitis. Several studies have investigated the potential relationship between IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) and susceptibility to chronic periodontitis; inflammatory process is involved, but conclusions is still controversial.Objective. The aim of this study was to determine whether the IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) is associated with susceptibility to chronic periodontitis.Material and Methods. For the case-control study, 51 patients with chronic periodontitis and 33 healthy control patients were recruited in the study. Genotyping was conducted by direct sequencing. SNPStats and SPSS 18.0 were used for the analysis of genetic data and to evaluate odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, andPvalues; logistic regression models were used. And to perform meta-analysis, studies about IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) and chronic periodontitis were searched in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Korean Studies Information Service System (KISS) electronic databases until July 2017.Results. In our case-control study, no significant relationship was revealed between IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) and chronic periodontitis (P>0.05in each model). When combined with the previous studies in the meta-analysis, the result was not associated with chronic periodontitis in any of the models (CC vs. CT + TT: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.762–1.246; CC + CT vs. TT: OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.658–1.232; and C vs. T: OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.774–1.128). The subgroup analysis stratified by ethnicity showed a weak association between the IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) and chronic periodontitis in the Caucasian population (recessive model, OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.017–1.758,P=0.037).Conclusion. Evidences from a case-control study and the meta-analysis suggest that IL-1βpolymorphism (rs16944) is not associated with susceptibility to chronic periodontitis.
Acoustic Emission and Ultrasonic Characteristics in the Failure Process of Cemented Waste Concrete‐Coal Gangue Backfilling (CWCGB) under Uniaxial Loading
Authors: Feng Guorui , Qi Tingye , Du Xianjie , Wang Zehua , Zhang Yujiang
Published: December 2018

The acoustic emission (AE) characteristics, change law of the ultrasonic velocity, and internal failure mode of cemented waste concrete‐coal gangue backfilling (CWCGB) with 600 days of curing time were studied under uniaxial loading conditions. Waste concrete particles of 5 mm acting as fine aggregates substituted for 30% and 50% fine coal gangue in the cemented coal gangue backfilling (CGB). AE was used to test the ring count and changing rule of the accumulated energy, locate the event for positioning, and calculate the number of events. The average ultrasonic wave velocity was measured via an ultrasonic detector. The characteristics of the microfractures were observed via a scanning electron microscope. The results showed that the specimens with 30% and 50% waste concrete replacement rates underwent ultrasonic wave velocity stabilization and a rapid decline stage under uniaxial compression; for the former case, the decline started earlier. The AE ring count attained peaks at the pore compression stage, yield stress point, stress peak value, and residual stress stage with no added waste concrete and 30% and 50% waste concrete substitution rates. The value and consequent frequency of the ringing count peak and cumulative energy slope increased with increasing waste concrete substitution rate. A microcrack was observed at the interfacial transition zone between the cement paste and gangue owing to the alkali‐aggregate reaction effect. However, a better bonding performance was exhibited by the waste concrete particles and paste.
Progression of Hearing Loss in the Aging Population: Repeated Auditory Measurements in the Rotterdam Study
Authors: Rigters Stephanie C. , van der Schroeff Marc P. , Papageorgiou Grigorios , Baatenburg de Jong Robert J. , Goedegebure André
Published: December 2018

We quantified changes in the auditory acuity of 675 aging adults (mean age 71.1 years, 52.0% female, mean follow-up 4.4 years ± 0.2) of an ongoing cohort study with a pure-tone audiogram and a speech-in-noise test. Generalized estimating equation models were used to study the association between hearing loss and the progression with age, sex, education, cognition, BMI, blood pressure, having type 2 diabetes mellitus, cholesterol ratio, smoking and alcohol consumption. The mean progression of hearing loss was 0.29 and 1.35 dB/year (low and high frequencies). Progression of hearing loss was associated with baseline hearing thresholds. Besides, the presence of type 2 diabetes, smoking, age, sex and time were associated with worse hearing at baseline, but there was no statistical evidence that the tested determinants were associated with progression of hearing loss. This finding indicates that the 4-year progression of hearing loss in older adults in this study is not influenced by the measured determinants. More research with multiple follow-up rounds is desired.
A Study of Anti-Fat Bias among Danish General Practitioners and Whether This Bias and General Practitioners’ Lifestyle Can Affect Treatment of Tension Headache in Patients with Obesity
Authors: Bøker Lund Thomas , Brodersen John , Sandøe Peter
Published: December 2018

Objectives: The study investigated whether treatment options for episodic tension-type headache vary among general practitioners (GPs) in Denmark depending on the patients’ weight status and gender, and whether these decisions can be explained by the GPs’ own anti-fat bias and lifestyle. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study with responses from 240 GPs on measures of anti-fat bias, healthiness of GPs’ lifestyles, and reported patient treatment decisions. Results: GPs tended to exhibit negative explicit and implicit anti-fat bias. There were no differences in choice of medical treatment for patients with obesity and those of a normal weight. GPs were more likely to advise a general health check to a patient with obesity (p < 0.001). GPs treating a male patient with obesity were less likely to believe that their patient would comply with the advised treatment compared to those with a male patient of normal weight. Compared with other patient types (4.4–7.7%), GPs who treated a male patient with obesity (27.9%) were more likely to advise a general health check only and no diary-keeping or follow-up consultation (p < 0.001). This was explained by the healthiness of the GPs’ lifestyles (Spearman’s ρ = 0.367; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Despite the presence of clear anti-fat bias, there were no differences in medical treatment, and GPs managed the general health of patients with obesity proactively. The fact that the GPs’ own lifestyle influenced the likelihood that they would recommend diary-keeping and follow-up consultations for male patients with obesity is remarkable and requires further investigation.
The Value of Unilateral CIs, CI-CROS and Bilateral CIs, with and without Beamformer Microphones, for Speech Understanding in a Simulation of a Restaurant Environment
Authors: Dorman Michael F. , Cook Natale Sarah , Agrawal Smita
Published: December 2018

Objective: Our primary aim was to determine, in a simulation of a crowded restaurant, the value to speech understanding of (i) a unilateral cochlear implant (CI), (ii) a CI plus CROS (contralateral routing of signals) aid system and (iii) bilateral CIs when tested with and without beamforming microphones. Design: The listeners were 7 CI listeners who had used bilateral CIs for an average of 9 years. The listeners were tested with three device configurations (bilateral CI, unilateral CI + CROS, and unilateral CI), two signal processing conditions (without and with beamformers) and with speech either from +90°, –90°, or from the front. Speech understanding scores for the TIMIT sentences were obtained in the 8-loudspeaker R-SPACETM test environment – an environment which simulates listening in a crowded restaurant. Results: In the unilateral condition, speech understanding, relative to speech directed to the CI ear, fell by 17% when speech was from the front and fell 28% when speech was to the side opposite the CI. These deficits were overcome with both CI-CROS and bilateral CIs, and scores for the two devices did not differ significantly for any location of speech input. Beamformer microphones improved speech understanding for speech from the front and depressed speech understanding for speech from the sides for all device configurations. Patients with bilateral CIs and beamformers achieved slightly, but significantly, higher scores for speech from the front than patients with CI-CROS and beamformers. Conclusions: CI-CROS is a valuable addition to the hardware options available to patients fit with a single CI. For patients fit with bilateral CIs, bilateral beamformers are a valuable addition in the condition of speech coming from in front of the listener. The small differences in performance in the CI-CROS and bilateral CI conditions suggest that patient preference for bilateral CIs is based largely on factors other than speech understanding in noise.
Expression Levels of microRNAs miR-93 and miR-200a in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma with Special Reference to Differentiation and Relapse-Free Survival
Authors: Karihtala Peeter , Porvari Katja , Soini Ylermi , Eskelinen Matti , Juvonen Petri , Haapasaari Kirsi-Maria
Published: December 2018

Objectives: Protein levels of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2) and its inhibitor Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) have been proposed as prognostic factors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs). These cellular redox-state-regulating enzymes are targeted by several microRNAs, including miR-93 and miR-200a. Methods: We assessed mRNA levels of Nrf2 and Keap1 and tissue expression of miR-93 and miR-200a in 51 patients with surgically treated PDAC. Expression levels were separately measured in malignant cells and adjacent benign cells. Results: Keap1 and Nrf2 mRNA expression levels in cancer cells were lower than in adjacent benign tissue (Wilcoxon’s test; p = 0.0015 and p = 0.000032, respectively). Conversely, miR-93 expression was higher in cancer cells than in adjacent benign tissue (p = 0.00082). Low levels of miR-93 and miR-200a in cancer cells were associated with poorer differentiation (p = 0.004 and p = 0.002, respectively). In univariate survival analysis, benign-tissue levels of miR-200a above the median predicted better relapse-free survival (RFS) (p = 0.045). Conclusions: High miR-93 and miR-200a levels in cancer cells of PDAC were associated with better differentiation, and miR-200a expression in benign tissue with excellent RFS. Keap1 and Nrf2 mRNA levels showed prominent down-regulation in cancerous versus benign tissue, but they were not associated with disease aggressiveness or outcome.
Gonadotropin- and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone-Independent Precocious Puberty of Gonadal Origin in a Patient with Adrenal Hypoplasia Congenita Due to DAX1 Gene Mutation – A Case Report and Review of the Literature: Implications for the Pathomechanism
Authors: Nagel Stella A. , Hartmann Michaela F. , Riepe Felix G. , Wudy Stefan A. , Wabitsch Martin
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims: Mutations in the DAX1 gene cause X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) classically associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Unexpectedly, precocious puberty (PP) has been reported in some cases, its mechanism remaining unclear. Methods: We longitudinally studied a boy with AHC due to DAX1 gene mutation who developed peripheral PP at age 4.5 years. Initially he presented pubic hair, penile enlargement, advanced bone age and elevated testosterone levels. PP progressed with acne, body odour and ejaculations. In addition, we summarized reported findings of patients with DAX1 mutations and PP in the literature in a structured manner providing a basis to discuss possible pathomechanisms of PP in DAX1 patients. Results: In our patient, hydrocortisone treatment was increased to 20 mg/m2/day as suggested in similar published cases. However, despite the suppression of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), this remained without clinical effect or change in laboratory results. The progression of symptoms of pubertal development was well suppressed under cyproterone acetate treatment. Twenty-four-hour steroid urine excretion rate measurements excluded an effect of adrenal androgens and showed a prepubertal rise of excreted testosterone. Testes size remained small. GnRH testing showed peripheral PP. Conclusion: We hypothesize that an intrinsic, gonadotropin- and ACTH-independent activation of steroidogenesis in the DAX1 deficient testes leads to PP in AHC patients with DAX1 mutations.
Trastuzumab-Based Combination Chemotherapy in Patients with Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2-Positive Metastatic Carcinoma ex Pleomorphic Adenoma
Authors: Arihara Yohei , Murase Kazuyuki , Takada Kohichi , Hayasaka Naotaka , Miura Shogo , Miyanishi Koji , Kobune Masayoshi , Kurose Makoto , Akiyama Yukinori , Sugita Shintaro , Kato Junji
Published: December 2018

Background: Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is a rare histologic subtype of lacrimal gland and submandibular gland cancer. Currently, there is no standard treatment for metastatic CXPA, although some case reports have explored the role of targeted agents in chemotherapy. A few histopathologic analyses have shown that some of these tumors overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), suggesting a potential role for HER2-based therapy. We report here two cases of metastatic CXPA that were treated with trastuzumab-based chemotherapy (IRB approved) with rapid and significant responses. Case Report 1: A 66-year-old male was diagnosed as HER2-positive CXPA of the right lacrimal gland with multiple bone and lymph node metastases. Combination chemotherapy with trastuzumab (Tmab) and nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (nabPTX) was initiated. A rapid response was confirmed, and after seven cycles of treatment, CR(complete response) was achieved. Case Report 2: A 67-year-old female was diagnosed with HER2 positive CXPA of the right submandibular gland. Multiple pulmonary metastatic lesions were detected after surgery, and combination chemotherapy with Tmab and nab-PTX was initiated. A rapid partial response (PR) was confirmed, and she eventually became disease-free. Conclusion: In the absence of definitive clinical trials, which are unlikely to be performed due to the rarity of HER2-positive CXPA, therapeutic information must be obtained from case reports. Some reports, such as this one, have suggested a potential utility of trastuzumab-based chemotherapy.
Não basta fabricar um sangue comum
Authors: Corpas Danielle
Published: December 2018

O artigo discute o último romance de Rubens Figueiredo, Passageiro do fim do dia (2010), enfatizando aspectos formais que configuram uma ética realista em sua representação da experiência social brasileira contemporânea.
Ética na representação do horror em La Douleur de Marguerite Duras
Authors: Mascaro Laura Degaspare Monte
Published: December 2018

Partindo da constatação de que os horrores dos campos de concentração e extermínio tornaram imperativo que se questionasse sobre como a literatura de teor testemunhal e a literatura em geral apresentavam o passado, assim como a contribuição dessa representação para o futuro e o mundo compartilhado, o presente artigo buscará investigar a obra La Douleur (1985) de Marguerite Duras sob a perspectiva da ética da representação do horror e da dor.
Ficção e Realidade autoral em Operación Masacre, de Rodolfo Walsh
Authors: Patrocinio Ana Paula Ramos
Published: December 2018

Considerando-se a tensão entre realidade e ficção existente nos gêneros advindos do jornalismo, este artigo pretende deslindar os recursos estéticos utilizados por Walsh para descrever “Marcelo” (personagem secundário de Operación Masacre) em comparação com a descrição do mesmo Marcelo pelos jornais La Nación, de 12 de julho de 1957 e El Plata de 11 de julho do mesmo ano. Para isso, apresentaremos reflexões sobre os conceitos de verdade e realidade, ficção e literatura atribuídos às narrativas que representam histórias reais, a fim de desvelá-los para maior compreensão dos elementos narrativos que criam tal tensão. Pensando na ética do autor, pretendemos refletir acerca dos seguintes questionamentos: será o autor honesto quando descreve seus personagens? De que modo se configura essa “verdade” do autor Walsh no narrador homônimo de Operación Masacre? Partimos do pressuposto de que a verdade dependerá não só do posicionamento do narrador, – que não é imparcial –, como também da forma usada para articular a verossimilhança, a fim de persuadir os leitores de sua verdade, conforme foi evidenciado neste artigo.
Chaves para pensar sobre fronteiras a partir de uma perspectiva geográfica
Authors: Benedetti Alejandro
Published: December 2018

Fronteraes un concepto jurídico, central en la estructura de los Estados nacionales modernos. Es una noción utilizada en diferentes saberes, como la literatura y el periodismo. También fue un concepto trabajado por la geopolítica, la historia y la sociología desde fines del siglo XIX. En el último tiempo, además, es el rótulo de un campo de estudios emergente, interdisciplinar y con múltiples aproximaciones teórico-metodológicas. Por esa razón, fronteraha adquirido gran labilidad como concepto, a la vez que registra infinidad de definiciones. Este artículo introduce una reflexión sobre estas cuestiones. Se plantea presentar, todavía de manera introductoria, otros conceptos que ofrecen gran potencial heurístico como muro, frentey periferia, entre otros. Asimismo, busca sostener que el estudio de las fronterasse enriquece cuando se lo realiza en paralelo al estudio de las regiones. Finalmente, se pretende exponer diferentes dimensiones para pensar a las fronterasdesde una perspectiva renovada de la geografía.
Quando o trunfo se revela um fardo: reexaminando os percalços de um campo disciplinar que se pretendeu uma ponte entre o conhecimento da natureza e o da sociedade
Authors: Souza Marcelo Lopes de
Published: December 2018

Do “desenvolvimento sustentável” à “mudança climática global”, passando por problemas ambientais os mais diversos, os vínculos entre “natureza” e sociedade” parecem estar na ordem do dia. Diante desse quadro, poder-se-ia pensar que os geógrafos deveriam ter muito a dizer sobre os desafios que se colocam para tanta gente pelo planeta afora; afinal de contas, a Geografia traz, no cerne de sua identidade e como uma de suas tradições mais inconfundíveis, a pretensão de promover uma ponte entre o estudo da natureza e o estudo da sociedade. No entanto, curiosamente, justo na hora presente, a maioria dos geógrafos dá a impressão de ter desertado daquele tipo de debate. Poucos são os que parecem ainda acreditar valer a pena investir no diálogo de saberes simbolizado pelo ideal de uma “ciência-ponte”. Como se chegou a essa situação? Seria ela irreversível, mesmo que só parcialmente? Em caso afirmativo, em que termos? Com uma potência provavelmente ímpar, o discurso geográfico pode, a despeito de suas debilidades e de seus impasses contemporâneos, demonstrar o quanto os vocábulos “natureza” e “sociedade”, por mais incontornáveis que sejam, possuem conteúdos inescapavelmente relacionais, não precisando corroborar nenhum pensamento dualista. De várias maneiras, talvez a relevância e o prestígio da Geografia dependam, em grau crescente, de os geógrafos saberem voltar a explorar tal potencial, valorizando temas e problemas “híbridos”, ainda que decerto em novas bases epistemológicas e teóricas.
A Deep Intronic Variant in
LDLR
in Familial Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Reeskamp Laurens F. , Hartgers Merel L. , Peter Jorge , Dallinga-Thie Geesje M. , Zuurbier Linda , Defesche Joep C. , Grefhorst Aldo , Hovingh G. Kees
Published: December 2018

Background:

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder characterized by high plasma LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol) levels. The vast majority of FH patients carry a mutation in the coding region of
LDLR
,
APOB
, or
PCSK9
. We set out to identify the culprit genetic defect in a large family with clinical FH, in whom no mutations were identified in the coding regions of these FH genes.

Methods:

Whole genome sequencing was performed in 5 affected and 4 unaffected individuals from a family with an unexplained autosomal dominant FH trait. The effect on splicing of the identified novel intronic
LDLR
mutation was ascertained by cDNA sequencing. The prevalence of the novel variant was assessed in 1 245 FH patients without an FH causing mutation identified by Sanger sequencing and in 2 154 patients referred for FH analysis by next-generation sequencing (covering the intronic region).

Results:

A novel deep intronic variant in
LDLR
(c.2140+103G>T) was found to cosegregate with high LDL-C in 5 patients, but was not present in 4 unaffected family members. The variant was shown to result in a 97 nucleotides insertion leading to a frameshift and premature stop codon in exon 15 of
LDLR
. The prevalence of the intronic variant was 0.24% (3/1245) in a cohort of FH patients without a known FH causing mutation and 0.23% (5/2154) in a population of FH patients referred for analysis by next-generation sequencing. Cosegregation analysis of a second family showed full penetrance of the novel variant with the FH phenotype over 3 generations.

Conclusions:

The c.2140+103G>T mutation in
LDLR
is a novel intronic variant identified in FH that cosegregates with the FH phenotype. Our findings underline the need to analyze the intronic regions of
LDLR
in patients with FH, especially those in whom no mutation is found in the coding regions of
LDLR
,
APOB
, or
PCSK9
.
Prognostic Value of Albuminuria and Influence of Spironolactone in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Selvaraj Senthil , Claggett Brian , Shah Sanjiv J. , Anand Inder , Rouleau Jean L. , O’Meara Eileen , Desai Akshay S. , Lewis Eldrin F. , Pitt Bertram , Sweitzer Nancy K. , Fang James C. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Solomon Scott D.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Albuminuria predicts adverse events in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. No therapies to date have reduced albuminuria in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Methods and Results:

We analyzed 1175 participants from the Americas from the TOPCAT study (Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure With an Aldosterone Antagonist) with urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) measurements at baseline. We examined the association of UACR with the primary outcome (cardiovascular death, aborted cardiac arrest, or heart failure hospitalization) and its individual components, all-cause mortality, and several safety end points using multivariable-adjusted Cox regression. We evaluated whether spironolactone reduced albuminuria at the 1-year visit in a subpopulation (N=744). Thirty-five percent had microalbuminuria, 13% had macroalbuminuria, and 80% were receiving angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. Increasing UACR was associated with male sex, higher systolic blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, and renal dysfunction. Macroalbuminuria (hazard ratio, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.22–2.28) and microalbuminuria (hazard ratio, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.15–1.86) were independently associated with the TOPCAT primary end point (compared with normoalbuminuria). Adjusting for placebo response, spironolactone reduced albuminuria by 39% in all participants at the 1-year visit compared with baseline (geometric mean ratio, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.49–0.77) and by 76% (geometric mean ratio, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.10–0.56) among those with macroalbuminuria. Reducing UACR by 50% was independently associated with a reduction in heart failure hospitalization (hazard ratio, 0.90;
P
=0.017) and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.91;
P
=0.019). The change in UACR was significantly associated with change in systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.001).

Conclusions:

In TOPCAT, albuminuria was independently associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes. Spironolactone significantly reduced albuminuria compared with placebo. Reducing albuminuria was independently associated with improved outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00094302.
Youngia baoxingensis, a new species of Asteraceae (tribe Cichorieae) from Sichuan, China
Authors: CHEN YOU-SHENG
Published: December 2018

Youngia baoxingensis (Asteraceae, Cichorieae), a new species from Baoxing in Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. This species belongs to Youngia sect. Mesomeris and is similar to Y. yilingii, but is distinct by its oblong and subentire leaf blade, brown pappus, and 6–7 florets.
On the meaning of Cypripedium × grande (Orchidaceae) and its taxonomic history, with a new name for the nothospecies occurring in Costa Rica and Panama
Authors: PUPULIN FRANCO , DÍAZ-MORALES MELISSA
Published: December 2018

The taxonomic history of Phragmipedium × grande is traced to show that its current treatment as the cross between P. longifolium and P. humboldtii is untenable. According to our interpretation of the holotype and other materials prepared from specimens of the original cross, the name Phragmipedium × grande, as well as its counterpart, the orchid grex Phragmipedium Grande, have to be treated as the cross between P. longifolium and a species of sect. Phragmipedium from South America. The similarity of the flowers obtained crossing P. longifolium with P. caudatum and with P. warszewiczianum prevents, at this stage, a definitive statement about the original parentage of P. × grande, so it is advisable to treat it as the hybridizer originally stated, a cross of P. longifolium with the pollen of P. caudatum. This nothospecies cannot be formed under natural conditions, as the geographic ranges of the parental species do not overlap. The natural hybrid between Phragmipedium longifolium and P. humboldtii, previously reported from Panama and recorded here for the first time from Costa Rica, is described as P. × talamancanum. Full illustrations of the new nothospecies are provided.
Clarification of the taxonomic confusion between Ilex formosana and I. tetramera (Aquifoliaceae), with the description of a new species I. shukunii
Authors: YANG YI , CHEN LI , PENG HUA
Published: December 2018

Ilex formosana and I. tetramera, both occurring in subtropical forests of China, are easily confused in morphology and distribution. To unravel their identities, phylogenetic analyses of multiple accessions of the two species and their possible relatives using two nuclear DNA loci (ITS and ETS) are conducted in present study. Our results show that I. formosana (sampled from type locality) is closest to I. matanoana and I. mertensii, and I. tetramera (sampled from type locality) is sister to I. nuculicava, while the remaining samples, which were originally identified as I. formosana or I. tetramera, form a strongly supported clade sister to I. cinerea, representing a cryptic new species, which is named here as I. shukunii. Despite the homogeneity in morphology, the divergence in the distribution of I. formosana, I. shukunii, and I. tetramera also supports our phylogenetic results. Insulated by the Taiwan Strait, the re-defined I. formosana is restricted to Taiwan Island. Separated by the Tanaka-Kaiyong Line, a major phytogeographic boundary of Sino-Himalayan and Sino-Japanese Floras, I. shukunii occurs from southeast Yunnan to southeast mainland of China, whereas the re-defined I. tetramera is endemic to southwest Yunnan.