bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the elastic and inelastic scattering of α-particles from 13C in the energy range 26.6–65MeV
Authors: Burtebayev N. , Sakhiyev S. K. , Janseitov D. M. , Kerimkulov Zh. , Alimov D. , Danilov A. N.
Published: September 2016

We have measured the differential cross-sections for the elastic and inelastic scattering of [Formula: see text]-particles on [Formula: see text]C target at the isochronous cyclotron U-150 M INP Republic of Kazakhstan. The beam energies of [Formula: see text]-particles were 29[Formula: see text]MeV and 50[Formula: see text]MeV. As a result of research we obtained new experimental data for the [Formula: see text] + [Formula: see text]C elastic scattering and inelastic one leading to the 3.68 ([Formula: see text]), 6.86 ([Formula: see text]) and 7.5 ([Formula: see text])[Formula: see text]MeV excited states of [Formula: see text]C nucleus. The experimental results on elastic scattering were analyzed within the framework of the optical model using Woods–Saxon potential and the double folding one. The theoretical calculations for the concerned excited states were performed using the coupled channel (CC) method. The optimal deformation parameters for the excited states of [Formula: see text]C nucleus were extracted.
Geological structural controls on stability of footwall slopes: an example from the Bowen Basin, Queensland
Authors: Pope D. , Duran A. , Grocott G. , Holm O. , Bell A.
Published: September 2016

Surface mining of coal can involve extensive footwall slopes parallel to shallow to moderately dipping coal measures strata. Footwall failure mechanisms typically invoke bedding-parallel defects but also require either the existence of flatter structures, which cross-cut bedding, or require break-out through the rock mass to allow failure surfaces to emerge.

Permian-aged Baralaba Coal Measures of the Bowen Basin, Queensland, are prospective for coal with extraction by open-pit methods. The Baralaba Coal Measures contains multiple seams within an interburden sequence comprising sandstone, siltstone, mudstone and carbonaceous variations. The coal measures sequence has been deformed into a complex pattern of NW-striking folds which has resulted in bedding dip ranging from 15° to 60°. Bedding has been classified as shallow (10–30°) to moderate (30–60°).

Geotechnical investigations conducted to support coal extraction up to depths of 200 m suggest that structural controls strongly influence footwall slope design. For the purpose of footwall slope design, a distinction can be made between deposit areas of relatively simple structure (uniformly dipping bedding on fold limbs) and structurally complex areas (where layer-parallel shortening close to fold hinges has resulted in a system of low-angle thrusts and asymmetrical minor folds).
Can Snapchat Bridge the Communication Chasm in Online Courses?
Authors: Ernstberger Jon , Venable Melissa A.
Published: September 2016

Snapchat, a video- and photo-sharing mobile app, has experienced fast growth among college students, followed by adoption by the colleges themselves. Most recently, individual educators are using Snapchat, and similar social tools, to reach students at a distance. While there are benefits in the app's potential for creativity and personal connection, challenges lie in the platform's temporary nature, concerns about privacy, and resistance to social sharing in an educational setting.
Online Adaptive Anomaly Detection for Augmented Network Flows
Authors: Ippoliti Dennis , Jiang Changjun , Ding Zhijun , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: September 2016

Traditional network anomaly detection involves developing models that rely on packet inspection. However, increasing network speeds and use of encrypted protocols make per-packet inspection unsuited for today’s networks. One method of overcoming this obstacle is aggregating packet header information and performing flow-based analysis where data flow patterns are examined rather than deep packet inspection. Many existing approaches are special purpose limited to detecting specific behavior. Also, the data reduction inherent in identifying anomalous flows hinders alert correlation. In this article, we propose and develop a dynamic anomaly detection approach for augmented network flows. We sketch network state during flow creation, enabling general-purpose threat detection. We describe an efficient flow augmentation approach based on the count-min sketch that provides per-flow-, per-node-, and per-network-level statistics parallel to flow record generation. We design and develop a support vector machine-based adaptive anomaly detection and correlation mechanism, which is capable of aggregating alerts without
a priori
alert classification and evolving models online. We further develop a lightweight evolving alert aggregation method and combine it with a confidence forwarding mechanism identifying a small percentage predictions for additional processing. We show effectiveness of our methods on both enterprise and backbone traces. Experimental results demonstrate its ability to maintain high accuracy without the need for offline training.
Cross-Lingual Topic Discovery From Multilingual Search Engine Query Log
Authors: Jiang Di , Tong Yongxin , Song Yuanfeng
Published: September 2016

Today, major commercial search engines are operating in a multinational fashion to provide web search services for millions of users who compose search queries by different languages. Hence, the search engine query log, which serves as the backbone of many search engine applications, records millions of users’ search history in a wide spectrum of human languages and demonstrates a strong multilingual phenomenon. However, with its salience, the multilingual nature of a search engine query log is usually ignored by existing works, which usually consider query log entries of different languages as being orthogonal and independent. This kind of oversimplified assumption heavily distorts the underlying structure of web search data. In this article, we pioneer in recognition of the multilingual nature of a query log and make the first attempt to cross the language barrier in query logs. We propose a novel model named
Cross-Lingual Query Log Topic Model
(CL-QLTM) to analyze query logs from a cross-lingual perspective and derive the latent topics of web search data. The CL-QLTM comprehensively integrates web search data in different languages by collectively utilizing cross-lingual dictionaries, as well as the co-occurrence relations in the query log. In order to relieve the efficiency bottleneck of applying the CL-QLTM on voluminous query logs, we propose an efficient parameter inference algorithm based on the MapReduce computing paradigm. Both qualitative and quantitative experimental results show that the CL-QLTM is able to effectively derive cross-lingual topics from multilingual query logs and spawn a wide spectrum of new search engine applications.
Attributed Graph Rewriting for Complex Event Processing Self-Management
Authors: Higashino Wilson A. , Eichler Cédric , Capretz Miriam A. M. , Bittencourt Luiz F. , Monteil Thierry
Published: September 2016

The use of Complex Event Processing (CEP) and Stream Processing (SP) systems to process high-volume, high-velocity Big Data has renewed interest in procedures for managing these systems. In particular, self-management and adaptation of runtime platforms have been common research themes, as most of these systems run under dynamic conditions. Nevertheless, the research landscape in this area is still young and fragmented. Most research is performed in the context of specific systems, and it is difficult to generalize the results obtained to other contexts. To enable generic and reusable CEP/SP system management procedures and self-management policies, this research introduces the Attributed Graph Rewriting for Complex Event Processing Management (
AGeCEP
) formalism.
AGeCEP
represents queries in a language- and technology-agnostic fashion using attributed graphs. Query reconfiguration capabilities are expressed through standardized attributes, which are defined based on a novel classification of CEP query operators. By leveraging this representation,
AGeCEP
also proposes graph rewriting rules to define consistent reconfigurations of queries. To demonstrate
AGeCEP
feasibility, this research has used it to design an autonomic manager and to define a selected set of self-management policies. Finally, experiments demonstrate that
AGeCEP
can indeed be used to develop algorithms that can be integrated into diverse CEP systems.
Black holes and the limits of quantum information processing
Authors: Swingle Brian
Published: September 2016

The densest memories and the fastest processors imaginable on computers located billions of light-years away
Physiology and anatomy of neurons in the medial superior olive of the mouse
Authors: Fischl Matthew J. , Burger R. Michael , Schmidt-Pauly Myriam , Alexandrova Olga , Sinclair James L. , Grothe Benedikt , Forsythe Ian D. , Kopp-Scheinpflug Conny
Published: September 2016

In mammals with good low-frequency hearing, the medial superior olive (MSO) computes sound location by comparing differences in the arrival time of a sound at each ear, called interaural time disparities (ITDs). Low-frequency sounds are not reflected by the head, and therefore level differences and spectral cues are minimal or absent, leaving ITDs as the only cue for sound localization. Although mammals with high-frequency hearing and small heads (e.g., bats, mice) barely experience ITDs, the MSO is still present in these animals. Yet, aside from studies in specialized bats, in which the MSO appears to serve functions other than ITD processing, it has not been studied in small mammals that do not hear low frequencies. Here we describe neurons in the mouse brain stem that share prominent anatomical, morphological, and physiological properties with the MSO in species known to use ITDs for sound localization. However, these neurons also deviate in some important aspects from the typical MSO, including a less refined arrangement of cell bodies, dendrites, and synaptic inputs. In vitro, the vast majority of neurons exhibited a single, onset action potential in response to suprathreshold depolarization. This spiking pattern is typical of MSO neurons in other species and is generated from a complement of Kv1, Kv3, and IH currents. In vivo, mouse MSO neurons show bilateral excitatory and inhibitory tuning as well as an improvement in temporal acuity of spiking during bilateral acoustic stimulation. The combination of classical MSO features like those observed in gerbils with more unique features similar to those observed in bats and opossums make the mouse MSO an interesting model for exploiting genetic tools to test hypotheses about the molecular mechanisms and evolution of ITD processing.
Exercising in the Fasted State Reduced 24-Hour Energy Intake in Active Male Adults
Authors: Bachman Jessica L. , Deitrick Ronald W. , Hillman Angela R.
Published: September 2016

The effect of fasting prior to morning exercise on 24-hour energy intake was examined using a randomized, counterbalanced design. Participants (12 active, white males,20.8±3.0years old,VO2max:   59.1±5.7 mL/kg/min) fasted (NoBK) or received breakfast (BK) and then ran for 60 minutes at 60%  VO2max. All food was weighed and measured for 24 hours. Measures of blood glucose and hunger were collected at 5 time points. Respiratory quotient (RQ) was measured during exercise. Generalized linear mixed models and paired samplet-tests examined differences between the conditions. Total 24-hour (BK:19172±4542 kJ versus NoBK:15312±4513 kJ;p<0.001) and evening (BK:12265±4278 kJ versus NoBK:10833±4065;p=0.039) energy intake and RQ (BK:0.90±0.03versus NoBK:0.86±0.03;p<0.001) were significantly higher in BK than NoBK. Blood glucose was significantly higher in BK than NoBK before exercise (5.2±0.7versus4.5±0.6 mmol/L;p=0.025). Hunger was significantly lower for BK than NoBK before exercise, after exercise, and before lunch. Blood glucose and hunger were not associated with energy intake. Fasting before morning exercise decreased 24-hour energy intake and increased fat oxidation during exercise. Completing exercise in the morning in the fasted state may have implications for weight management.
Time-Dependent Neutronic Analysis of a Power-Flattened Gas Cooled Accelerator Driven System Fuelled with Thorium, Uranium, Plutonium, and Curium Dioxides TRISO Particles
Authors: Bakır Gizem , Genç Gamze , Yapıcı Hüseyin
Published: September 2016

This study presents the power flattening and time-dependent neutronic analysis of a conceptual helium gas cooled Accelerator Driven System (ADS) loaded with TRISO (tristructural-isotropic) fuel particles. Target material is lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE). ThO2, UO2, PuO2, and CmO2TRISO particles are used as fuel. PuO2and CmO2fuels are extracted from PWR-MOX spent fuel. Subcritical core is radially divided into 10 equidistant subzones in order to flatten the power produced in the core. Tens of thousands of these TRISO fuel particles are embedded in the carbon matrix fuel pebbles as five different cases. The high-energy Monte Carlo code MCNPX 2.7 with the LA150 library is used for the neutronic calculations. Time-dependent burnup calculations are carried out for thermal fission power (Pth) of 1000 MW using the BURN card. The energy gain of the ADS is in the range of 99.98–148.64 at the beginning of a cycle. Furthermore, the peak-to-average fission power density ratio is obtained between 1.021 and 1.029 at the beginning of the cycle. These ratios show a good quasi-uniform power density for each case. Furthermore, up to 155.1 g233U and 103.6 g239Pu per day can be produced. The considered system has a high neutronic capability in terms of energy multiplication, fissile breeding, and spent fuel transmutation with thorium utilization.
An Intelligent Complex Event Processing withDNumbers under Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Xiao Fuyuan
Published: September 2016

Efficient matching of incoming mass events to persistent queries is fundamental to complex event processing systems. Event matching based on pattern rule is an important feature of complex event processing engine. However, the intrinsic uncertainty in pattern rules which are predecided by experts increases the difficulties of effective complex event processing. It inevitably involves various types of the intrinsic uncertainty, such as imprecision, fuzziness, and incompleteness, due to the inability of human beings subjective judgment. Nevertheless,Dnumbers is a new mathematic tool to model uncertainty, since it ignores the condition that elements on the frame must be mutually exclusive. To address the above issues, an intelligent complex event processing method withDnumbers under fuzzy environment is proposed based on the Technique for Order Preferences by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. The novel method can fully support decision making in complex event processing systems. Finally, a numerical example is provided to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Pregnancy Predictors after Intrauterine Insemination in Cases of Unexplained Infertility: A Prospective Study
Authors: Ganguly Ishita , Singh Aparna , Bhandari Shilpa , Agrawal Pallavi , Gupta Nitika
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Aim of the study was to find the effect of various prognostic factors in cases of unexplained infertility undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) with intrauterine insemination (IUI).Methods. 146 cases of unexplained infertility were included. A maximum of 3 cycles of IUI were done with clomiphene citrate/HMG. Ovulation trigger was given when the largest follicle diameter was >18 mm, and IUI was planned 36 hours later. Luteal phase support was given for 15 days, urine pregnancy test was done on day 15, ultrasonography was done at 7 weeks, and pregnancy was followed up till delivery.Results. A total of 146 couples have undergone 239 cycles of IUI out of which 27 had UPT positive after 15 days. 14.8% had 1st-trimester abortion while 3.7% were ectopic. 86.3% were singleton pregnancies and 13.6% were twins. CPR was 11.29% per cycle and 18.4% per couple; LBR was 9.2% per cycle. Apart from duration of stimulation (p=0.037) and number of treatment cycles (p=0.045), no other factors had significant prognostic value.Conclusion. For unexplained infertility, IUI can be done to provide patients with the time that they need before moving on to IVF while providing a respectable chance of pregnancy.
Motion Predicting of Autonomous Tracked Vehicles with Online Slip Model Identification
Authors: Lu Hao , Xiong Guangming , Guo Konghui
Published: September 2016

Precise understanding of the mobility is essential for high performance autonomous tracked vehicles in challenging circumstances, though the complex track/terrain interaction is difficult to model. A slip model based on the instantaneous centers of rotation (ICRs) of treads is presented and identified to predict the motion of the vehicle in a short term. Unlike many research studies estimating current ICRs locations using velocity measurements for feedback controllers, we focus on predicting the forward trajectories by estimating ICRs locations using position measurements. ICRs locations are parameterized over both tracks rolling speeds and the kinematic parameters are estimated in real time using an extended Kalman filter (EKF) without requiring prior knowledge of terrain parameters. Simulation results verify that the proposed algorithm performs better than the traditional method when the pose measuring frequencies are low. Experiments are conducted on a tracked vehicle with a weight of 13.6 tons. Results demonstrate that the predicted position and heading errors are reduced by about 75% and the reduction of pose errors is over 24% in the absence of the real-time kinematic global positioning system (RTK GPS).
Highly Reflective Dielectric Back Reflector for Improved Efficiency of Tandem Thin-Film Solar Cells
Authors: Barugkin Chog , Paetzold Ulrich W. , Catchpole Kylie R. , Basch Angelika , Carius Reinhard
Published: September 2016

We report on the prototyping and development of a highly reflective dielectric back reflector for application in thin-film solar cells. The back reflector is fabricated by Snow Globe Coating (SGC), an innovative, simple, and cheap process to deposit a uniform layer of TiO2particles which shows remarkably high reflectance over a broad spectrum (average reflectance of 99% from 500 nm to 1100 nm). We apply the highly reflective back reflector to tandem thin-film silicon solar cells and compare its performance with conventional ZnO:Al/Ag reflector. By using SGC back reflector, an enhancement of 0.5 mA/cm2in external quantum efficiency of the bottom solar cell and an absolute value of 0.2% enhancement in overall power conversion efficiency are achieved. We also show that the increase in power conversion efficiency is due to the reduction of parasitic absorption at the back contact; that is, the use of the dielectric reflector avoids plasmonic losses at the reference ZnO:Al/Ag back reflector. The Snow Globe Coating process is compatible with other types of solar cells such as crystalline silicon, III–V, and organic photovoltaics. Due to its cost effectiveness, stability, and excellent reflectivity above a wavelength of 400 nm, it has high potential to be applied in industry.
Upscaling of Helmholtz Equation Originating in Transmission through Metallic Gratings in Metamaterials
Authors: Mahato Hari Shankar
Published: September 2016

We investigate the transmission properties of a metallic layer with narrow slits. We consider (time-harmonic) Maxwell’s equations in theH-parallel case with a fixed incident wavelength. We denoteη>0as the typical size of the complex structure and obtain the effective equations by lettingη→0. For metallic permittivities with negative real part, plasmonic waves can be excited on the surfaces of the slits. For the waves to be in resonance with the height of the metallic layer, the corresponding results can be perfect transmission through the layer.
Safety Needs Mediate Stressful Events Induced Mental Disorders
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Gu Simeng , Lei Yu , Lu Shanshan , Wang Wei , Li Yang , Wang Fushun
Published: September 2016

“Safety first,” we say these words almost every day, but we all take this for granted for what Maslow proposed in his famous theory ofHierarchy of Needs: safety needs come second to physiological needs. Here we propose that safety needs come before physiological needs. Safety needs are personal security, financial security, and health and well-being, which are more fundamental than physiological needs. Safety worrying is the major reason for mental disorders, such as anxiety, phobia, depression, and PTSD. The neural basis for safety is amygdala, LC/NE system, and corticotrophin-releasing hormone system, which can be regarded as a “safety circuitry,” whose major behavior function is “fight or flight” and “fear and anger” emotions. This is similar to the Appraisal theory for emotions: fear is due to the primary appraisal, which is related to safety of individual, while anger is due to secondary appraisal, which is related to coping with the unsafe situations. If coping is good, the individual will be happy; if coping failed, the individual will be sad or depressed.
Intraplaque Expression of C-Reactive Protein Predicts Cardiovascular Events in Patients with Severe Atherosclerotic Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Bonaventura Aldo , Mach François , Roth Aline , Lenglet Sébastien , Burger Fabienne , Brandt Karim J. , Pende Aldo , Bertolotto Maria , Spinella Giovanni , Pane Bianca , Palombo Domenico , Dallegri Franco , Cea Michele , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Montecucco Fabrizio , Carbone Federico
Published: September 2016

Serum c-reactive protein (CRP) was suggested for the assessment of intermediate cardiovascular (CV) risk. Here, systemic or intraplaque CRP levels were investigated as predictors of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in patients with severe carotid stenosis. CRP levels were assessed in the serum and within different portions (upstream and downstream) of carotid plaques of 217 patients undergoing endarterectomy. The association between CRP and intraplaque lipids, collagen, neutrophils, smooth muscle cells (SMC), and macrophage subsets was determined. No correlation between serum CRP and intraplaque biomarkers was observed. In upstream portions, CRP content was directly correlated with intraplaque neutrophils, total macrophages, and M1 macrophages and inversely correlated with SMC content. In downstream portions, intraplaque CRP correlated with M1 and M2 macrophages. According to the cut-off point (CRP > 2.9%) identified by ROC analysis in upstream portions, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with high CRP levels had a greater rate of MACEs. This risk of MACEs increased independently of age, male gender, serum CRP, and statin use. In conclusion, in patients with severe carotid artery stenosis, high CRP levels within upstream portions of carotid plaques directly and positively correlate with intraplaque inflammatory cells and predict MACEs at an 18-month follow-up period.
T4SP Database 2.0: An Improved Database for Type IV Secretion Systems in Bacterial Genomes with New Online Analysis Tools
Authors: Han Na , Yu Weiwen , Qiang Yujun , Zhang Wen
Published: September 2016

Type IV secretion system (T4SS) can mediate the passage of macromolecules across cellular membranes and is essential for virulent and genetic material exchange among bacterial species. The Type IV Secretion Project 2.0 (T4SP 2.0) database is an improved and extended version of the platform released in 2013 aimed at assisting with the detection of Type IV secretion systems (T4SS) in bacterial genomes. This advanced version provides users with web server tools for detecting the existence and variations of T4SS genes online. The new interface for the genome browser provides a user-friendly access to the most complete and accurate resource of T4SS gene information (e.g., gene number, name, type, position, sequence, related articles, and quick links to other webs). Currently, this online database includes T4SS information of 5239 bacterial strains.Conclusions. T4SS is one of the most versatile secretion systems necessary for the virulence and survival of bacteria and the secretion of protein and/or DNA substrates from a donor to a recipient cell. This database on virB/D genes of the T4SS system will help scientists worldwide to improve their knowledge on secretion systems and also identify potential pathogenic mechanisms of various microbial species.
Nutritional Stress Induced by Tryptophan-Degrading Enzymes Results in ATF4-Dependent Reprogramming of the Amino Acid Transporter Profile in Tumor Cells
Authors: Timosenko Elina , Ghadbane Hemza , Silk Jonathan D. , Shepherd Dawn , Gileadi Uzi , Howson Lauren J. , Laynes Robert , Zhao Qi , Strausberg Robert L. , Olsen Lars R. , Taylor Stephen , Buffa Francesca M. , Boyd Richard , Cerundolo Vincenzo
Published: September 2016

Tryptophan degradation is an immune escape strategy shared by many tumors. However, cancer cells' compensatory mechanisms remain unclear. We demonstrate here that a shortage of tryptophan caused by expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) resulted in ATF4-dependent upregulation of several amino acid transporters, including SLC1A5 and its truncated isoforms, which in turn enhanced tryptophan and glutamine uptake. Importantly, SLC1A5 failed to be upregulated in resting human T cells kept under low tryptophan conditions but was enhanced upon cognate antigen T-cell receptor engagement. Our results highlight key differences in the ability of tumor and T cells to adapt to tryptophan starvation and provide important insights into the poor prognosis of tumors coexpressing IDO and SLC1A5. Cancer Res; 76(21); 6193–204. ©2016 AACR.
BRD4 Regulates Breast Cancer Dissemination through Jagged1/Notch1 Signaling
Authors: Andrieu Guillaume , Tran Anna H. , Strissel Katherine J. , Denis Gerald V.
Published: September 2016

The bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins are epigenetic “readers” of acetylated histones in chromatin and have been identified as promising therapeutic targets in diverse cancers. However, it remains unclear how individual family members participate in cancer progression and small molecule inhibitors such as JQ1 can target functionally independent BET proteins. Here, we report a signaling pathway involving BRD4 and the ligand/receptor pair Jagged1/Notch1 that sustains triple-negative breast cancer migration and invasion. BRD4, but not BRD2 or BRD3, regulated Jagged1 expression and Notch1 signaling. BRD4-selective knockdown suppressed Notch1 activity and impeded breast cancer migration and invasion. BRD4 was required for IL6-stimulated, Notch1-induced migration and invasion, coupling microenvironment inflammation with cancer propagation. Moreover, in patients, BRD4 and Jagged1 expression positively correlated with the presence of distant metastases. These results identify a BRD4/Jagged1/Notch1 signaling pathway that is critical for dissemination of triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Res; 76(22); 6555–67. ©2016 AACR.
Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer and Hyperbilirubinemia Treated with FOLFIRI plus Bevacizumab as First-Line Treatment
Authors: Huang Ching-Wen , Yeh Yung-Sung , Ma Cheng-Jen , Tsai Hsiang-Lin , Chen Chao-Wen , Huang Ming-Yii , Lu Chien-Yu , Wu Jeng-Yih , Wang Jaw Yuan
Published: September 2016

Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) combined with hyperbilirubinemia is typically considered a contraindication to irinotecan-based therapy, a proven first-line treatment of mCRC. Herein, we present 6 consecutive patients with mCRC combined with hyperbilirubinemia who underwent UGT1A1 genotyping before receiving FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab. Dose escalation of irinotecan was performed according to the results of UGT1A1 genotyping in all patients. Improvement in the serum total bilirubin level to a normal range was noted in all 6 patients. Disease control was 100%. The median progression-free survival was 7.5 months and the median overall survival was 8.5 months. FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab as a first-line chemotherapy may achieve effective disease control and be safe in patients with mCRC and hyperbilirubinemia based on UGT1A1 genotyping. More prospective clinical studies are necessary to evaluate the clinical benefits and safety of this treatment approach.
Phosphorylation of STAT3 in Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma Is Correlated with a Favorable Prognosis
Authors: Bekki Hirofumi , Kohashi Kenichi , Yamada Yuichi , Iura Kunio , Ishii Takeaki , Maekawa Akira , Otsuka Hiroshi , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Hakozaki Michiyuki , Nabeshima Kazuki , Iwamoto Yukihide , Oda Yoshinao
Published: September 2016

Objective: The Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway plays a role in various biological processes. Phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) functions as a transcriptional factor, and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) is a potential inhibitor of STAT3. Here, we analyzed the status of the JAK-STAT pathway in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS). Methods: We performed immunohistochemistry in 79 samples of UPS and Western blotting in 10 frozen samples. We also examined alterations in protein expression in the JAK-STAT pathway after the inhibition of phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-Erk) in vitro. Results: Immunohistochemically, p-STAT3 and SOCS3 were positive in 59.7 and 55.8%, respectively. Positivity for p-STAT3 was significantly correlated with a better prognosis (p = 0.0006) and negatively with SOCS3 expression (p = 0.0223). Positivity for SOCS3 was significantly correlated with a worse prognosis (p = 0.0001). Western blotting analysis revealed that p-STAT3 expression was lower in tumor than in normal tissue. In vitro results demonstrated that there was no detectable change in the expression of p-STAT3 regardless of the status of p-Akt or p-Erk. Conclusion: p-STAT3 may be a useful prognostic factor for UPS.
Vasculogenesis and Its Cellular Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Ratajska Anna , Jankowska-Steifer Ewa , Czarnowska Elżbieta , Olkowski Radosław , Gula Grzegorz , Niderla-Bielińska Justyna , Flaht-Zabost Aleksandra , Jasińska Agnieszka
Published: September 2016

Vasculogenesis was originally defined by Risau in 1997 [Nature 386: 671-674] as the de novo formation of vessels from endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), so-called angioblasts. Initially, this process was believed to be related only to embryonic life; however, further studies reported vasculogenesis to occur also in adult tissues. This overview presents the current knowledge about the origin, differentiation and significance of EPCs that have been observed in various diseases, tumors, and reparative processes. We also summarize the knowledge of how to activate these cells for therapeutic purposes and the outcomes of the therapies.
Empirically Derived Relational Pattern Prototypes in the Treatment of Personality Disorders
Authors: Colli Antonello , Tanzilli Annalisa , Gualco Ivan , Lingiardi Vittorio
Published: September 2016

Background: Patient transference patterns play a central role in the psychotherapy of personality disorders. Objective: The aims of this study were to: (1) explore the relationship between patients' personality disorders and specific relational patterns and (2) construct empirically derived prototypes of relational patterns for each personality disorder. Sampling and Methods: A random national sample of 314 clinicians completed the Psychotherapy Relationship Questionnaire, which evaluates patients' relational patterns, and the Shedler-Westen Assessment Procedure-200, which assesses personality disorders in a randomly selected patient currently in the clinician's care and with whom the clinician has worked for a minimum of 8 sessions and a maximum of 6 months (1 session per week). Results: The avoidant/counterdependent transference pattern was associated with all cluster A personality disorders; the angry/entitled transference pattern was strongly positively associated with all cluster B personality disorders, and the anxious/preoccupied transference pattern was positively associated in a significant way with all cluster C personality disorders. Moreover, our empirically derived prototypes showed how the transference phenomena characteristic of each personality disorder are strongly coherent with the personality traits and mental and relational functioning of each specific disorder. Conclusions: The results strongly support a fundamental hypothesis that the patterns emerging in the therapeutic relationship are not arbitrary, and they clearly reflect patterns seen elsewhere in patients' lives that can be crucial to address. Regarding limitations, the same clinician provided data on both the personality pathology and the transference phenomena for each patient.
A 92,XXXY Miscarriage Consecutive to a Digynic Triploid Pregnancy
Authors: Soler Anna , Badenas Cèlia , Margarit Ester , Madrigal Irene , Muñoz Míriam , Borobio Virginia , Sánchez Aurora
Published: September 2016

The patient was referred for prenatal diagnosis due to the sonographic finding of a polymalformed male fetus, and an amniocentesis was performed before termination of pregnancy. The pathological study of the placenta did not show morphological alterations. In her next pregnancy, sonographic examination disclosed a missed abortion with a visible embryo, and a chorionic villi sample was obtained for cytogenetic analysis before evacuation. Macroscopic examination of the villi sample did not reveal molar vesicular appearance. QF-PCR and cytogenetic analyses were performed on amniotic fluid (first pregnancy) and chorionic villi samples (second pregnancy). A 69,XXY and 92,XXXY karyotype was found, respectively. QF-PCR results disclosed 2 maternal and 1 paternal alleles in the first pregnancy (digynic triploidy), and double maternal and double paternal contribution to the tetraploid pregnancy. Among the few reported cases of 92,XXXY tetraploidy, those associated with partial moles show a PPPM genotype (3 paternal and 1 maternal alleles), and the only case with a PPMM genotype was found in a spontaneously aborted fetus similar to our case. We are not aware of other cases with combination of a digynic triploid pregnancy and a tetraploid pregnancy with a PPMM contribution. Our case adds evidence to the influence of the balance between paternal and maternal genomic doses on the phenotype.
Technique to ‘Map' Chromosomal Mosaicism at the Blastocyst Stage
Authors: Taylor Tyl H. , Griffin Darren K. , Katz Seth L. , Crain Jack L. , Johnson Lauren , Gitlin Susan
Published: September 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify a technique that allows for comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS) of individual cells within human blastocysts along with the approximation of their location in the trophectoderm relative to the inner cell mass (ICM). This proof-of-concept study will allow for a greater understanding of chromosomal mosaicism at the blastocyst stage and the mechanisms by which mosaicism arises. One blastocyst was held by a holding pipette and the ICM was removed. While still being held, the blastocyst was further biopsied into quadrants. To separate the individual cells from the biopsied sections, the sections were placed in calcium/magnesium-free medium with serum for 20 min. A holding pipette was used to aspirate the sections until individual cells were isolated. Individual cells from each section were placed into PCR tubes and prepped for aCGH. A total of 18 cells were used for analysis, of which 15 (83.3%) amplified and provided a result and 3 (16.7%) did not. Fifteen cells were isolated from the trophectoderm; 13 (86.7%) provided an aCGH result, while 2 (13.3%) did not amplify. Twelve cells were euploid (46,XY), while 1 was complex abnormal (44,XY), presenting with monosomy 7, 10, 11, 13, and 19, and trisomy 14, 15, and 21. A total of 3 cells were isolated from the ICM; 2 were euploid (46,XY) and 1 did not amplify. Here, we expand on a previously published technique which disassociates biopsied sections of the blastocyst into individual cells. Since the blastocyst sections were biopsied in regard to the position of the ICM, it was possible to reconstruct a virtual image of the blastocyst while presenting each cell's individual CCS results.
Right Ventricular Dysfunction Complicates Time in Therapeutic Range in Heart Failure Patients Receiving Warfarin
Authors: Beton Osman , Asarcikli Lale Dinc , Sen Taner , Ipek Esra Gucuk , Kafes Habibe , Yaman Mehmet , Efe Tolga Han , Kaya Hakkı , Temizhan Ahmet , Yilmaz Mehmet Birhan
Published: September 2016

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the effect of echocardiographically demonstrated right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) on time in therapeutic range (TTR) in heart failure (HF) patients receiving warfarin therapy. Methods: A total of 893 consecutive HF patients were included and classified into 4 different subgroups: HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) without RVD (n = 373), HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) without RVD (n = 215), HFpEF with RVD (n = 106) and HFrEF with RVD (n = 199). Groups were compared according to baseline, demographic and clinical data and the characteristics of warfarin therapy. Results: Presence of RVD yielded lower median TTR values both in HFpEF and HFrEF patients. RVD, current smoking, New York Heart Association functional class III/IV, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, pulmonary disease, prior transient ischemic attack or stroke, chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4/5 and CKD stage 3 were found to be independent predictors of poor anticoagulation control in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that presence of RVD in HF increases the risk for poor anticoagulation.
Major Depression and Long-Term Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Balogun Rasheed A. , Omotoso Bolanle A. , Xin Wenjun , Ma Jennie Z. , Scully Kenneth W. , Arogundade Fatiu A. , Abdel-Rahman Emaad M.
Published: September 2016

Background: The prevalence of depression and its relationship to poor outcomes in chronic kidney disease are established facts. Such prognostic impact in acute kidney injury (AKI) is not known. This study determines the prognostic implication of a diagnosis of depression on renal recovery and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a new diagnosis of myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease (CVD, stroke or transient ischemic attack) or congestive heart failure (CHF) after hospitalization with AKI. Methods: The study population comprises adults admitted to the University of Virginia Medical Center between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2012 who suffered AKI during admission. Long-term outcomes, MACE and all-cause mortality, were compared between 2 groups; patients with preexisting diagnosis of major depression and those without. Risk adjusted multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression examined the association between major depression and these outcomes. Results: Patients with AKI numbering 11,425 survived beyond 90 days and had data available. Of these patients, 2,519 (22%) were majorly affected by depression; more often, younger patients, females, African Americans, and those with more comorbid conditions, especially CHF, CVD, diabetes, peptic ulcer disease, chronic pulmonary disease and liver disease were found to be affected with depression. Crude hazard ratio for MACE was 1.245, 95% CI 1.150-1.348 and for all-cause mortality 1.186, 95% CI 1.091-1.290; p < 0.001, that is, the cohort with major depression had a long-term risk for MACE and all-cause mortality increased by 24 and 18%, respectively. Conclusion: Patients who develop AKI in hospital and have preexisting major depression are at greater long-term risk of MACE and all-cause mortality.
Produção de gêmeos monozigóticos bovinos mediante microcirurgia embrionária
Authors: Monaci Maurizio , Vuono Laudinor de , Chicchini Umberto
Published: September 2016

Após a microcirurgia dos embriões bovinos para a obtenção de gêmeos monozigóticos, passa-se ao exame dos resultados obtidos com o transplante dos mesmos nas receptoras, tendo sido este efetuado imediatamente após a duplicação, ou após o seu desenvolvimento "in vitro" por 36 horas, obtendo uma taxa de gravidez de 42% e de 72% respectivamente.
Influência da soja fornecida crua, tostada ou como farelo, na composição de rações para bovinos, sobre o número e gêneros de protozoários ciliados do rúmen
Authors: Nogueira Filho José Carlos Machado , Lucci Carlos de Sousa , Oliveira Maria Ely Miserochi de , Melotti Laércio , Valvasori Edson , Lima Cesar Gonçalves de , Cunha José Aparecido da
Published: September 2016

Seis bovinos mestiços, com fístulas runinais, receberam os seguintes tratamentos: A) soja grão, crua; B) soja grão, tostada e; C) farelo de soja, serviram como fontes de proteína de rações constituídas de 50% de concentrados e 50% de volumosos (feno de Brachiaria decumbens). 0 delineamento utilizado foi o "change-over" tendo os perfodos experimentais duração de 28 dias, dos quais os últimos sete prestaram-se para colheita de amostras do líquido ruminal e contagem de protozoários ciliados. Os resultados mostraram maior número de protozoários por mililitro de líquido ruminal com a soja crua (633,2 x 10³) do que com a tostada (492,9 x 10³), mas esta apresentou maior número que o farelo de soja (407,5 x 103 ), sendo os resultados, significantes a 5% de probabilidade. Outros resultados são fornecidos, para os gêneros Eniodtnium spp, Diplodinium spp, Eudiplodinium spp, Epidinium spp, Pnlyplastron spp, Isotricha spp e Dasytricha spp.
Modificações histológicas das gônadas de manjuba Anchoviella lepidentostole (Fowler, 1911) (Osteichthyes, Engraulidae), durante o ciclo reprodutivo
Authors: Giamas Maria Teresa Duarte , Alexandrino Agar Costa , Arana Sarah , Vermulm Junior Harry
Published: September 2016

Foram utilizados 40 machos e 36 fêmeas de Anchoviella lepidentostole (Fowler, 1911), capturadas no Rio Ribeira de Iguape, Registro - SP, com o objetivo de estudar histologicamente o ciclo reprodutivo desta e s pécie. As gônadas foram caracterizadas macroscopicamente quanto ao volume, a coloração e a vascularização superficial. A seguir as gônadas esquerdas foram amostradas em seu terço médio, o qual foi fixado em liqüido de Bouin e processado segundo técnicas histológicas de rotina. Foram identificados cinco estádios: imaturo, início de maturação, maturação avançada, reprodução e esgotada.
Babesia canis em cães de rua da Cidade de São Paulo. I. Estudo comparativo de métodos de diagnóstico
Authors: Dell'Porto Arlete , Oliveira Mauro Rodrigues de , Miguel Omar
Published: September 2016

Amostras de sangue de 106 cães de rua da Cidade de São Paulo foram examinadas para pesquisa de Babesia canis. As técnicas utilizadas foram a da observação direta do parasita em esfregaço sangüíneo, corado por corante de Rosenfeld, e a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (IFI). Através da primeira diagnosticou-se a infecção em 10,3% dos animais, enquanto que a sorologia revelou 42,4% de cães positivos. No teste de IFI os títulos variaram de 1:10 a 1:2560, sendo mais freqüente o de 1:40. Este último teste apresentou boa sensibilidade e alta especificidade, mostrando-se ideal para levantamentos epidemiológicos.
Importância do exame físico-químico no diagnóstico de carcaças amareladas de suínos na rotina de inspeção
Authors: Ribeiro Pedro , Anjos Ari Crispim dos , Alavares Antonio Gabriel de Oliveira , Fessel Leda Jorge
Published: September 2016

A coloração amarelada é un achado que pode levar à condenação de carcaças. Em uma amostragem de cento e oitenta e cinco carcaças de suínos que à inspeção apresentaram-se amareladas, sem outras lesões visíveis, foram realizados, como provas confirmativas, o - tratamento pelo frio e a reação de Remington-Fourrié. Os resultados mostram que em 158 delas persistiu a coloração amarelada, quando tratadas pelo frio, enquanto que pela técnica de Remington-Fourrié "foram detectadas cento e dezoito carcaças ictéricas. Isto mostra a eficiência desta prova na identificação de icterícia em carcaças amareladas, o que sugere sua utilização na rotina de inspeção.
Prevalência de endoparasitos em cães da região de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais
Authors: Oliveira Paulo Roberto de , Parreira Wander Ferreira , Ribeiro Sueli Cristina de Almeida , Gomes João Batista
Published: September 2016

Durante o período de 1981 a 1986 estudou-se em cães, examinados clinicamente no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, a prevalência de parasitos gastrintestinais. Foram atendidos 11.563 c.es de ambos os sexos, de diferentes raças e idades, dos quais 2.447 apresentaram diagnóstico coproparasitológico positivo (21,16%); destes, 1.672 com infecções simples (68,32%) e 755 com infecções múltiplas (30,85%). A prevalência de infecções simples foi a seguinte: Ancylostoma spp (61,15%); Toxocara spp (24,45%); Dipylidium spp (8,28%); Isospora spp (4,62%); Trichuris spp (1,22%); Taenia spp (0,22%) e Spirocerca spp (0,06%). Atenção especial foi dada aos parasitos Ancylostoma spp e Toxocara spp, responsáveis por zoonoses, cuja incidência, a partir de 1984, vem diminuindo ano a ano, e que apresentaram tendência decrescente. Em relação à faixa etária, foram encontrados 28,2% dos c.es parasitados entre 0 e 3 meses; 36,33% entre 4 e 12 meses; 18,23% entre 13 e 24 meses. Os resultados demonstraram que animais jovens de até um ano de idade foram os mais parasitados.
Determinação dos valores liquóricos normais de glicose, proteína, globulina, uréia, creatina fosfoquinase (CK), aspartato aminotransferase (AST), leucócitos e da coloração, turbidez e coagulabilidade em cães sadios
Authors: Fernandes Wilson Roberto
Published: September 2016

Foram determinados os valores liquóricos normais de glicose, proteína, globulina, uréia, creatina fosfoquinase (CK), aspartato aminotransferase (AST), leucócitos e da coloração, turbidez e coagulabilidade em cães sadios. Vinte cães adultos, sendo treze machos e sete fêmeas, sem raça definida, foram submetidos a três punções a nível da cisterna magna, com intervalos de duas a três semanas entre as punções, realizando-se, a seguir, exames físicos,químicos e citológicos, com duas repetições para cada prova, avaliando-se a reprodutividade dos métodos empregados. Quanto aos resultados dos exames físicos,constatou-se ser o líquido cefalorraquidiano incolor,límpido e não apresentando coagulação em período de 6 horas. Com relação aos exames químicos e citológicos,os valores médios e os desvios padrões foram os seguintes: glicose com média de 3,59 mmol/l e desvio padrão igual a ± 0,42; proteína 0,20g/l ± 0,06, com traços de globulina; uréia, 5,99 mmol/l e ± 2,4; aspartato aminotransferase, 32,72 U/L ± 12,2; creatinafosfoquinase, 17,1 U/L ± 1,0 e na contagem de células, a média corresponde a 0,6 cel/µ
Sarna corióptica em rebanho de caprinos no Brasil
Authors: Pereira Marcelo de Campos , Traldi Anneliese de Souza
Published: September 2016

Os autores relatam o primeiro encontro noBrasil de Chorioptes bovis, parasitando um rebanho decaprinos. Acrescentam também comentários sobre a situação taxonômica atual do gênero e sobre algumas das características morfológicas comparativas das dua sespécies de Chorioptes até o presente momento,encontradas associadas com caprinos.
Sobre a origem e o número dos ramos arteriais destinados ao timo, em fetos de equinos S.R.D.
Authors: Machado Gilberto Valente , Peduti Neto José , Silva Frederico Ozanan Carneiro , Neves Marco Túlio David das
Published: September 2016

Utilizando-se 30 fetos de equinos S.R.D., foram estudados a origem e o número dos ramos arteriais destinados ao timo, tendo-se verificado a participação das artérias torácicas internas direita e esquerda, carótida comum direita, pericárdica, subclávia esquerda, tronco braquiocefálico, torácica externa direita e cervicais superficiais direita e esquerda. Alcançam o timo de um a seis ramos arteriais, mais frequentemente um e dois.