bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information-Based Construction of High-Speed Railway Tunnel
Authors: Yang Qian , Wang Zhaoling
Published: October 2017

Nowadays, railway tunnel construction faces huge developments and opportunities, with a tendency for high speed and long distance. How to effectively apply the information in the construction process has been the focus of current research. According to the Xian-nvyan tunnel in Xicheng high-speed railway, our research was based on the geological forecast, selecting appropriate tunneling model parameters to establish the 3D calculation model. Through the numerical simulation of three tunnel excavation and support methods, we analyzed the displacement of surrounding rock and the plastic failure to select the construction method reasonably. Compared with the actual measured data, we judged the rationality of the selected scheme and model parameters, so as to provide design parameters which conform to the surrounding rock properties for the subsequent construction, thus optimizing the construction program and applying the concept of information-based construction in engineering actually.
Late Onset Descemet Membrane Detachment after Radial Keratotomy Resolved with Medical Therapy
Authors: Rosetta P. , Legrottaglie E. F. , Vinciguerra R. , Vinciguerra P.
Published: October 2017

Purpose. To report a case of a Descemet membrane’s (DM) detachment after radial keratotomy (RK).Methods. A patient (male) underwent RK (16 cuts) 20 years before referring to the Eye Center of Humanitas (Milan) for a progressive visual loss. The slit-lamp examination showed severe corneal stromal edema and a large DM detachment in the lower half of the cornea. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and endothelial cells count confirmed DM detachment and endothelial cells damage. Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK) was planned and topical hypertonic therapy was prescribed before the surgery.Results. Eight months later, the patient mentioned a spontaneous increase in visual acuity; the slit-lamp examination and the AS-OCT displayed a recovery of corneal transparency with a resolution of DM detachment.Conclusions. This is the first report of spontaneous DM detachment with severe corneal edema after RK. We suggest that hypertonic therapy may reduce DM detachment and restore corneal transparency.
Early Disseminated Lyme Disease with Carditis Complicated by Posttreatment Lyme Disease Syndrome
Authors: Novak Cheryl , Harrison Andrew , Aucott John
Published: October 2017

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. When untreated, infection may spread to the heart, nervous system, and joints. Cardiac involvement usually manifests as abnormalities of the conduction system and bradycardia. Treatment of Lyme disease is generally effective, with a subset of patients experiencing persistent, sometimes long-term symptoms called posttreatment Lyme disease syndrome.
Antifungal Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Some Dominant Algerian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Salhi Nasrine , Mohammed Saghir Sultan Ayesh , Terzi Valeria , Brahmi Iman , Ghedairi Naima , Bissati Samia
Published: October 2017

Aim. This study investigated the antifungal properties of aqueous extracts obtained from indigenous plants that grow spontaneously in the Northern Sahara of Algeria. The activities of these plants in controlling two fungal species that belong to Fusarium genus were evaluated in an in vitro assay. Materials and Methods. Fresh aerial parts of four plant species (Artemisia herba alba, Cotula cinerea, Asphodelus tenuifolius, and Euphorbia guyoniana) were collected for the preparation of aqueous extracts. Two levels of dilution (10% and 20%) of the pure extracts were evaluated against Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium sporotrichioides. Results. The results of this study revealed that the A. herba alba, C. cinerea, A. tenuifolius, and E. guyoniana aqueous extracts are effective at both concentrations of 10% and 20% for the Fusarium mycelia growth inhibition. In particular, A. tenuifolius extract is effective against F. graminearum, whereas F. sporotrichioides mycelium growth is strongly affected by the E. guyoniana 20% extract. The phytochemical characterization of the compositions of the aqueous extracts has revealed that the presence of some chemical compounds (tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and alkaloids) is likely to be responsible for the antifungal activities sought. Conclusion. The antifungal properties of A. herba alba, C. cinerea, A. tenuifolius, and E. guyoniana make these plants of potential interest for the control of fungi affecting both wheat yield and safety.
Neural Learning Control of Flexible Joint Manipulator with Predefined Tracking Performance and Application to Baxter Robot
Authors: Wang Min , Ye Huiping , Chen Zhiguang
Published: October 2017

This paper focuses on neural learning from adaptive neural control (ANC) for a class of flexible joint manipulator under the output tracking constraint. To facilitate the design, a new transformed function is introduced to convert the constrained tracking error into unconstrained error variable. Then, a novel adaptive neural dynamic surface control scheme is proposed by combining the neural universal approximation. The proposed control scheme not only decreases the dimension of neural inputs but also reduces the number of neural approximators. Moreover, it can be verified that all the closed-loop signals are uniformly ultimately bounded and the constrained tracking error converges to a small neighborhood around zero in a finite time. Particularly, the reduction of the number of neural input variables simplifies the verification of persistent excitation (PE) condition for neural networks (NNs). Subsequently, the proposed ANC scheme is verified recursively to be capable of acquiring and storing knowledge of unknown system dynamics in constant neural weights. By reusing the stored knowledge, a neural learning controller is developed for better control performance. Simulation results on a single-link flexible joint manipulator and experiment results on Baxter robot are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Szegö Kernels and Asymptotic Expansions for Legendre Polynomials
Authors: Paoletti Roberto
Published: October 2017

We present a geometric approach to the asymptotics of the Legendre polynomials Pk,n+1, based on the Szegö kernel of the Fermat quadric hypersurface, leading to complete asymptotic expansions holding on expanding subintervals of [-1,1].
Analysis of Various Projectile Interactions with Nuclear Emulsion Detector Nuclei at ~1 GeV per Nucleon Using Coulomb Modified Glauber Model
Authors: Marimuthu N. , Singh V. , Inbanathan S. S. R.
Published: October 2017

The total nuclear reaction cross section is calculated considering the cases with and without medium effect by employing Coulomb modified Glauber model (CMGM) for interactions of projectiles 56Fe26, 84Kr36, 132Xe54, 197Au79, and 238U92 with nuclear emulsion detector (NED) nuclei at around 1 GeV per nucleon incident kinetic energy. These calculated nuclear reaction cross sections are correlated with the different target groups of the NED nuclei. The average value of various parameters is also calculated and compared with the corresponding experimental results. The number of shower particles emitted in an interaction is also calculated and showed good agreement with the experimental result. We observed that the total nuclear reaction cross section increases with increasing the target mass number in case of all the considered projectiles. In addition, it is shown that the average value of reaction cross section with nuclear medium effect is in good agreement with the experimental results for projectiles 56Fe, 84Kr, and 132Xe, although results of projectiles 197Au and 238U are not in agreement with the experimental observations. This study sheds some light on the energy dependence of the nuclear reaction cross section.
Protective Effects of Total Flavones of Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson against Vascular Endothelial Injury in Blood Stasis Model Rats
Authors: Wei Zhicheng , Zuo Fang , Wang Wenqian , Wang Li , Tong Dong , Zeng Yong , Wang Ping , Meng Xianli , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2017

The aim was to evaluate the protective effects of total flavones of Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson (TFE) against vascular endothelial injury in blood stasis model rats and explore the potential mechanisms preliminarily. The model of blood stasis rat model with vascular endothelial injury was induced by subcutaneous injection of adrenaline combined with ice‐water bath. Whole blood viscosity (WBV), histological examination, and prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and fibrinogen (FIB) were measured. Meanwhile, the levels of Thromboxane B2 (TXB2), 6‐keto‐PGF1α, von Willebrand factor (vWF), and thrombomodulin (TM) were detected. In addition, Quantitative Real‐Time PCR (qPCR) was performed to identify PI3K, Erk2, Bcl‐2, and caspase‐3 gene expression. The results showed that TFE can relieve WBV, increase PT and APTT, and decrease FIB content obviously. Moreover, TFE might significantly downregulate the levels of TXB2, vWF, and TM in plasma and upregulate the level of 6‐keto‐PGF1α in plasma. Expressions of PI3K and Bcl‐2 were increased and the expression of caspase‐3 was decreased by TFE pretreatment in the rat model. Consequently, the study suggested that TFE may have the potential against vascular endothelial injury in blood stasis model rats induced by a high dose of adrenaline with ice‐water bath.
Separation and Determination of Fe(III) and Fe(II) in Natural and Waste Waters Using Silica Gel Sequentially Modified with Polyhexamethylene Guanidine and Tiron
Authors: Didukh Svetlana , Losev Vladimir , Borodina Elena , Maksimov Nikolay , Trofimchuk Anatoly , Zaporogets Olga
Published: October 2017

Silica gel, sequentially modified with polyhexamethylene guanidine and pyrocatechin-3,5-disulfonic acid (Tiron), was suggested for sorption separation and determination of Fe(III) and Fe(II). It was found that quantitative extraction of Fe(III) and its separation from Fe(II) were attained at pH 2.5–4.0, while quantitative extraction of Fe(II) was observed at pH 6.0–7.5. An intensive signal with g=4.27, which is characteristic for Fe(III), appeared in EPR spectra of the sorbents after Fe(II) and Fe(III) sorption. During interaction between Fe(II) and Tiron, fixed on the sorbent surface, its oxidation up to Fe(III) occurred. Red-lilac complexes of the composition FeL3 were formed on the sorbent surface during sorption regardless of initial oxidation level of iron. Diffuse reflectance spectrum of surface complexes exhibited wide band with slightly expressed maxima at 480 and 510 nm. Procedures for separation and photometric determination of Fe(III) and Fe(II) at the joint presence and total Fe content determination as Fe(II) in waste and natural waters was developed. The limit of detection for iron was 0.05 μg per 0.100 g of the sorbent. The calibration graph was linear up to 20.0 μg of Fe per 0.100 g of the sorbent. The RSD in the determination of more than 0.2 μg of Fe was less than 0.06.
Role of P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors in the Bioavailability Enhancement of Solid Dispersion of Darunavir
Authors: Rehman Saleha , Nabi Bushra , Fazil Mohammad , Khan Saba , Bari Naimat Kalim , Singh Romi , Ahmad Shavej , Kumar Varinder , Baboota Sanjula , Ali Javed
Published: October 2017

Objective.The aim of the present study was to improve bioavailability of an important antiretroviral drug, Darunavir (DRV), which has low water solubility and poor intestinal absorption through solid dispersion (SD) approach incorporating polymer with P-glycoprotein inhibitory potential.Methods.A statistical approach where design of experiment (DoE) was used to prepare SD of DRV with incorporation of P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Using DoE, different methods of preparation, like melt, solvent evaporation, and spray drying method, utilizing carriers like Kolliphor TPGS and Soluplus were evaluated. The optimized SD was characterized by DSC, FTIR, XRD, and SEM and further evaluated for enhancement in absorption using everted gut sac model, effect of food on absorption of DRV, andin vivoprospect.Results and Discussion.DSC, FTIR, XRD, and SEM confirmed the amorphicity of drug in SD. Oral bioavailability studies revealed better absorption of DRV when given with food. Absorption studies andin vivostudy findings demonstrated great potential of Kolliphor TPGS as P-glycoprotein inhibitor for increasing intestinal absorption and thus bioavailability of DRV.Conclusion.It is concluded that SD of DRV with the incorporation of Kolliphor TPGS was potential and promising approach in increasing bioavailability of DRV as well as minimizing its extrusion via P-glycoprotein efflux transporters.
In Vitro/In Silico Study on the Role of Doubling Time Heterogeneity among Primary Glioblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Oraiopoulou M.-E. , Tzamali E. , Tzedakis G. , Vakis A. , Papamatheakis J. , Sakkalis V.
Published: October 2017

The application of accurate cancer predictive algorithms validated with experimental data is a field concerning both basic researchers and clinicians, especially regarding a highly aggressive form of cancer, such as Glioblastoma. In an aim to enhance prediction accuracy in realistic patient-specific environments, accounting for both inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity, we use patient-derived Glioblastoma cells from different patients. We focus on cell proliferation using in vitro experiments to estimate cell doubling times and sizes for established primary Glioblastoma cell lines. A preclinically driven mathematical model parametrization is accomplished by taking into account the experimental measurements. As a control cell line we use the well-studied U87MG cells. Both in vitro and in silico results presented support that the variance between tumor staging can be attributed to the differential proliferative capacity of the different Glioblastoma cells. More specifically, the intratumoral heterogeneity together with the overall proliferation reflected in both the proliferation rate and the mechanical cell contact inhibition can predict the in vitro evolution of different Glioblastoma cell lines growing under the same conditions. Undoubtedly, additional imaging techniques capable of providing spatial information of tumor cell physiology and microenvironment will enhance our understanding regarding Glioblastoma nature and verify and further improve our predictability.
The Efficacy of Acupuncture on Anthropometric Measures and the Biochemical Markers for Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Han Mingjuan , Sun Yuxiu , Su Wei , Huang Shixi , Li Sinuo , Gao Mingyue , Wang Wenyan , Wang Fang , Fang Zhaohui , Zhao Hong
Published: October 2017

Background. Many previous studies have shown the potential therapeutic effect of acupuncture for metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, most of these studies were limited by short durations of observation and a lack of sham acupuncture as control. We designed a randomized controlled trial, used sham acupuncture as the control, and evaluated the efficacy over 12 weeks of treatment and 12 weeks of follow‐up. Methods/Design. The study was designed as a multicentre, parallel‐group, randomized, double‐blinded trial. 40 patients were randomly assigned to two groups: treatment group (treated with acupuncture) and control group (treated with sham acupuncture). Outcomes were measured at 4, 8, and 12 weeks and 3 months after treatment. Results. 33 participants (17 in acupuncture group and 16 in control group) completed the treatment and the follow‐up. Decreases from baseline in mean waist circumference (WC) and weight at the end of treatment were 4.85 cm (95% CI [2.405,5.595]) and 4.00 kg (95% CI [1.6208,4.4498]) in acupuncture group and 1.62 cm and 1.64 kg in control group (P < 0.01). The changes in mean glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and blood pressure in acupuncture group were greater than the changes in control group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Conclusion. Acupuncture decreases WC, HC, HbA1c, TG, and TC values and blood pressure in MetS.
The Phytoestrogen Genistein Produces Similar Effects as 17β-Estradiol on Anxiety-Like Behavior in Rats at 12 Weeks after Ovariectomy
Authors: Rodríguez-Landa Juan Francisco , Cueto-Escobedo Jonathan , Puga-Olguín Abraham , Rivadeneyra-Domínguez Eduardo , Bernal-Morales Blandina , Herrera-Huerta Emma Virginia , Santos-Torres Andrea
Published: October 2017

The phytoestrogen genistein produces anxiolytic-like effects in ovariectomized rats, which highlights its potential therapeutic effect in ameliorating anxiety in surgical menopausal women. However, no studies have directly compared the effects of identical doses of genistein and 17β-estradiol, the main estrogen used in hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women. The present study evaluated the anxiolytic-like effects of identical doses of genistein and 17β-estradiol (0.045, 0.09, and 0.18 mg/kg/7 days, s.c.) in a surgical menopause model in rats in the elevated plus maze and locomotor activity tests at 12 weeks after ovariectomy. Additionally, the participation of estrogen receptor-βin the anxiolytic-like effect of genistein and 17β-estradiol was explored by previous administration of the 5 mg/kg tamoxifen antagonist. Genistein and 17β-estradiol (0.09 and 0.18 mg/kg) similarly reduced anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze and also increased the time spent grooming and rearing, without affecting crossing in locomotor activity test. These effects were blocked by tamoxifen. Present results indicate that the phytoestrogen genistein has a similar behavioral profile as 17β-estradiol in rats at 12 weeks after ovariectomy through action at the estrogen receptor-β. Thus genistein has potential for reducing anxiety-like behavior associated with low concentrations of ovarian hormones, which normally occurs during natural and surgical menopause.
The Modified Fourier‐Ritz Approach for the Free Vibration of Functionally Graded Cylindrical, Conical, Spherical Panels and Shells of Revolution with General Boundary Condition
Authors: Li Lijie , Li Haichao , Pang Fuzhen , Wang Xueren , Du Yuan , Li Shuo
Published: October 2017

The aim of this paper is to extend the modified Fourier‐Ritz approach to evaluate the free vibration of four‐parameter functionally graded moderately thick cylindrical, conical, spherical panels and shells of revolution with general boundary conditions. The first‐order shear deformation theory is employed to formulate the theoretical model. In the modified Fourier‐Ritz approach, the admissible functions of the structure elements are expanded into the improved Fourier series which consist of two‐dimensional (2D) Fourier cosine series and auxiliary functions to eliminate all the relevant discontinuities of the displacements and their derivatives at the edges regardless of boundary conditions and then solve the natural frequencies by means of the Ritz method. As one merit of this paper, the functionally graded cylindrical, conical, spherical shells are, respectively, regarded as a special functionally graded cylindrical, conical, spherical panels, and the coupling spring technology is introduced to ensure the kinematic and physical compatibility at the common meridian. The excellent accuracy and reliability of the unified computational model are compared with the results found in the literatures.
A Multicriteria Intelligence Aid Methodology Using MCDA, Artificial Intelligence, and Fuzzy Sets Theory
Authors: Frini Anissa
Published: October 2017

Intelligence is increasingly relevant today in both military and business intelligence contexts. Business executives, military, and governments have more large datasets and meet difficulties in anticipating threat/competitor future decisions. Decision anticipation is desirable because it will enhance situation understanding and then will limit the surprise effect and favor more appropriate reactions and decision‐making. Generating and evaluating competitor/threat actions is a very challenging problem because of the uncertainty, incompleteness, and ambiguity associated with it. This paper extends the multicriteria decision aid (MCDA) methodology to the context of intelligence analysis and proposes the main pillars of a novel methodology called “Multicriteria Intelligence Aid” (MCIA). More specifically, this paper addresses how can we adapt MCDA to the context of intelligence analysis and how can we use existent methods and techniques from MCDA, artificial intelligence, and fuzzy sets theory to build this methodology. The paper presents the MCIA steps, which consist of (i) structuring the competitor/threat decision problem, (ii) handling imperfect data, (iii) modeling the analyst’s risk attitude, and (iv) aggregating the performance of the generated potential actions. An illustration of the methodology is provided in the military context. Results show that the novel methodology is applicable and provides interesting and valuable results.
Correlation between Traits of Emotion-Based Impulsivity and Intrinsic Default-Mode Network Activity
Authors: Zhao Jizheng , Tomasi Dardo , Wiers Corinde E. , Shokri-Kojori Ehsan , Demiral Şükrü B. , Zhang Yi , Volkow Nora D. , Wang Gene-Jack
Published: October 2017

Negative urgency (NU) and positive urgency (PU) are implicated in several high-risk behaviors, such as eating disorders, substance use disorders, and nonsuicidal self-injury behavior. The current study aimed to explore the possible link between trait of urgency and brain activity at rest. We assessed the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) of the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signal in 85 healthy volunteers. Trait urgency measures were related to ALFF in the lateral orbitofrontal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, ventral and dorsal medial frontal cortex, anterior cingulate, and posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus. In addition, trait urgency measures showed significant correlations with the functional connectivity of the posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus seed with the thalamus and midbrain region. These findings suggest an association between intrinsic brain activity and impulsive behaviors in healthy humans.
Reduced Transferrin Levels in Active Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Matusiewicz Malgorzata , Neubauer Katarzyna , Lewandowska Paulina , Gamian Andrzej , Krzystek-Korpacka Malgorzata
Published: October 2017

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammatory disease of unclear etiopathogenesis and challenging diagnosis, frequently complicated by anemia and malnutrition. C-reactive protein (CRP) remains the only biochemical marker of clinical relevance. The aim of this study was to test hypothesis that transferrin, coinfluenced by inflammation, malnutrition, anemia, and oxidative stress, may better reflect global IBD patient’s condition than any other more specific index. Transferrin and other indices of inflammation, anemia, malnutrition, and oxidative stress were measured in 137 IBD patients (Crohn’s disease (CD): n=63 and ulcerative colitis (UC): n=74) and 97 controls. Transferrin is reduced in active CD and UC and negatively correlates with the disease activity scores (CD: ρ=-0.49; UC: ρ=-0.52). In UC, transferrin correlates negatively with CRP, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), leukocytes, platelets, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and TNF-α and positively with albumins, cholesterol, hemoglobin, hematocrit, erythrocytes, iron, and paraoxonase-1. In CD, transferrin correlates negatively with CRP, leukocytes, platelets, interleukin-1, and interleukin-6 and positively with albumins, iron, catalase, glutathione peroxidase-1, superoxide dismutase-1, and paraoxonase-1. The associations with inflammation and anemia/malnutrition were more pronounced in UC and with oxidative stress in CD. As UC activity marker, transferrin outperforms ESR and hemoglobin, indices used in calculating the disease clinical severity score.
A Novel Sigma‐Delta Modulator with Fractional‐Order Digital Loop Integrator
Authors: Xu Chi , Jin Yu , Yu Duli
Published: October 2017

This paper proposes using a fractional‐order digital loop integrator to improve the robust stability of Sigma‐Delta modulator, thus extending the integer‐order Sigma‐Delta modulator to a non‐integer‐order (fractional‐order) one in the Sigma‐Delta ADC design field. The proposed fractional‐order Sigma‐Delta modulator has reasonable noise characteristics, dynamic range, and bandwidth; moreover the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) is improved remarkably. In particular, a 2nd‐order digital loop integrator and a digital PIλDμ controller are combined to work as the fractional‐order digital loop integrator, which is realized using FPGA; this will reduce the ASIC analog circuit layout design and chip testing difficulties. The parameters of the proposed fractional‐order Sigma‐Delta modulator are tuned by using swarm intelligent algorithm, which offers opportunity to simplify the process of tuning parameters and further improve the noise performance. Simulation results are given and they demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed fractional‐order Sigma‐Delta modulator.
Effects of Co-occurring Genomic Alterations on Outcomes in Patients withKRAS-Mutant Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Arbour Kathryn C. , Jordan Emmett , Kim Hyunjae Ryan , Dienstag Jordan , Yu Helena A. , Sanchez-Vega Francisco , Lito Piro , Berger Michael , Solit David B. , Hellmann Matthew , Kris Mark G. , Rudin Charles M. , Ni Ai , Arcila Maria , Ladanyi Marc , Riely Gregory J.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: KRAS mutations occur in approximately 25% of patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite the uniform presence of KRAS mutations, patients with KRAS-mutant NSCLC can have a heterogeneous clinical course. As the pattern of co-occurring mutations may describe different biological subsets of patients with KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, we explored the effects of co-occurring mutations on patient outcomes and response to therapy.

Experimental Design: We identified patients with advanced KRAS-mutant NSCLC and evaluated the most common co-occurring genomic alterations. Multivariate analyses were performed incorporating the most frequent co-mutations and clinical characteristics to evaluate association with overall survival as well as response to platinum–pemetrexed chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Results: Among 330 patients with advanced KRAS-mutant lung cancers, the most frequent co-mutations were found in TP53 (42%), STK11 (29%), and KEAP1/NFE2L2 (27%). In a multivariate analysis, there was a significantly shorter survival in patients with co-mutations in KEAP1/NFE2L2 [HR, 1.96; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.33–2.92; P ≤ 0.001]. STK11 (HR, 1.3; P = 0.22) and TP53 (HR 1.11, P = 0.58) co-mutation statuses were not associated with survival. Co-mutation in KEAP1/NFE2L2 was also associated with shorter duration of initial chemotherapy (HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.04–2.59; P = 0.03) and shorter overall survival from initiation of immune therapy (HR, 3.54; 95% CI, 1.55–8.11; P = 0.003).

Conclusions: Among people with KRAS-mutant advanced NSCLC, TP53, STK11, and KEAP1/NFE2L2 are the most commonly co-occurring somatic genomic alterations. Co-mutation of KRAS and KEAP1/ NFE2L2 is an independent prognostic factor, predicting shorter survival, duration of response to initial platinum-based chemotherapy, and survival from the start of immune therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 24(2); 334–40. ©2017 AACR.
Endocrine Health Problems Detected in 764 Patients Evaluated in a Late Effects Clinic
Authors: Pereira Maria Conceição , Pereira Joana S. , Dias Daniela , Donato Sara , Salgado Duarte
Published: October 2017

Background: Many pediatric cancer survivors have endocrine conditions. After treatment with alkylating agents, steroids, methotrexate, and radiation, several endocrine dysfunctions may appear. Surveillance for late effects is recommended by guidelines worldwide. Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the endocrine outcomes of 764 patients followed during a 20 years’ period in our out-patient clinic. Design: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records. Patients: The study included 764 patients whose oncological or hematological dangerous diseases appeared before they were 18 years old. Larger groups were constituted by leukemias, central nervous tumors, and lymphomas. Outcome Measures: The frequency and types of endocrine conditions were analyzed. Results: 1,091 endocrine conditions were observed in all groups. The most common types of endocrine conditions were problems with growth and the thyroid. We found puberty abnormalities and bone problems in third and fourth places of frequency. ACTH insufficiency was found in seventh place. Conclusion: Endocrine dysfunctions are very common in survivor populations. Endocrinologists should be aware of international guidelines and make an effort to optimize screening and treatment of endocrine effects of cancer therapy. The crucial period is the puberty with growth spurt failure and accelerated maturity both of which can bring future social and professional difficulties.
Unspliced XBP1 Confers VSMC Homeostasis and Prevents Aortic Aneurysm Formation via FoxO4 Interaction
Authors: Zhao Guizhen , Fu Yi , Cai Zeyu , Yu Fang , Gong Ze , Dai Rongbo , Hu Yanhua , Zeng Lingfang , Xu Qingbo , Kong Wei
Published: October 2017

Rationale:

Although not fully understood, the phenotypic transition of vascular smooth muscle cells exhibits at the early onset of the pathology of aortic aneurysms. Exploring the key regulators that are responsible for maintaining the contractile phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) may confer vascular homeostasis and prevent aneurysmal disease. XBP1 (X-box binding protein 1), which exists in a transcriptionally inactive unspliced form (XBP1u) and a spliced active form (XBP1s), is a key component in response to endoplasmic reticular stress. Compared with XBP1s, little is known about the role of XBP1u in vascular homeostasis and disease.

Objective:

We aim to investigate the role of XBP1u in VSMC phenotypic switching and the pathogenesis of aortic aneurysms.

Methods and Results:

XBP1u, but not XBP1s, was markedly repressed in the aorta during the early onset of aortic aneurysm in both angiotensin II–infused apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE
−/−
) and CaPO
4
(calcium phosphate)-induced C57BL/6J murine models, in parallel with a decrease in smooth muscle cell contractile apparatus proteins. In vivo studies revealed that XBP1 deficiency in smooth muscle cells caused VSMC dedifferentiation, enhanced vascular inflammation and proteolytic activity, and significantly aggravated both thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms in mice. XBP1 deficiency, but not an inhibition of XBP1 splicing, induced VSMC switching from the contractile phenotype to a proinflammatory and proteolytic phenotype. Mechanically, in the cytoplasm, XBP1u directly associated with the N terminus of FoxO4 (Forkhead box protein O 4), a recognized repressor of VSMC differentiation via the interaction and inhibition of myocardin. Blocking the XBP1u–FoxO4 interaction facilitated nuclear translocation of FoxO4, repressed smooth muscle cell marker genes expression, promoted proinflammatory and proteolytic phenotypic transitioning in vitro, and stimulated aortic aneurysm formation in vivo.

Conclusions:

Our study revealed the pivotal role of the XBP1u–FoxO4–myocardin axis in maintaining the VSMC contractile phenotype and providing protection from aortic aneurysm formation.
Enjoyment of Spicy Flavor Enhances Central Salty-Taste Perception and Reduces Salt Intake and Blood Pressure
Authors: Li Qiang , Cui Yuanting , Jin Rongbing , Lang Hongmei , Yu Hao , Sun Fang , He Chengkang , Ma Tianyi , Li Yingsha , Zhou Xunmei , Liu Daoyan , Jia Hongbo , Chen Xiaowei , Zhu Zhiming
Published: October 2017

High salt intake is a major risk factor for hypertension and is associated with cardiovascular events. Most countries exhibit a traditionally high salt intake; thus, identification of an optimal strategy for salt reduction at the population level may have a major impact on public health. In this multicenter, random-order, double-blind observational and interventional study, subjects with a high spice preference had a lower salt intake and blood pressure than subjects who disliked spicy food. The enjoyment of spicy flavor enhanced salt sensitivity and reduced salt preference. Salt intake and salt preference were related to the regional metabolic activity in the insula and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) of participants. Administration of capsaicin—the major spicy component of chili pepper—enhanced the insula and OFC metabolic activity in response to high-salt stimuli, which reversed the salt intensity–dependent differences in the metabolism of the insula and OFC. In animal study, OFC activity was closely associated with salt preference, and salty-taste information processed in the OFC was affected in the presence of capsaicin. Thus, interventions related to this region may alter the salt preference in mice through fiber fluorometry and optogenetic techniques. In conclusion, enjoyment of spicy foods may significantly reduce individual salt preference, daily salt intake, and blood pressure by modifying the neural processing of salty taste in the brain. Application of spicy flavor may be a promising behavioral intervention for reducing high salt intake and blood pressure.
Echocardiographic Risk Factors for Stroke and Outcomes in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Anticoagulated With Apixaban or Warfarin
Authors: Vinereanu Dragos , Lopes Renato D. , Mulder Hillary , Gersh Bernard J. , Hanna Michael , de Barros e Silva Pedro G.M. , Atar Dan , Wallentin Lars , Granger Christopher B. , Alexander John H.
Published: October 2017

Background and Purpose—

Few data exist on the long-term outcomes of patients with spontaneous echo contrast (SEC), left atrial/left atrial appendage (LA/LAA) thrombus, and complex aortic plaque (CAP), in patients with atrial fibrillation receiving oral anticoagulation. We explored the relationship between these 3 echocardiographic findings and clinical outcomes, and the comparative efficacy and safety of apixaban and warfarin for each finding.

Methods—

Patients from the ARISTOTLE trial (Apixaban for Reduction in Stroke and Other Thromboembolic Events in Atrial Fibrillation) with SEC, LA/LAA thrombus, or CAP diagnosed by either transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiography were compared with patients with none of these findings on transesophageal echocardiography.

Results—

A total of 1251 patients were included: 217 had SEC, 127 had LA/LAA thrombus, 241 had CAP, and 746 had none. The rates of stroke/systemic embolism were not significantly different among patients with and without these echocardiographic findings (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–3.60 for SEC; hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.23–6.86 for LA/LAA thrombus; hazard ratio, 2.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.71–6.85 for CAP). Rates of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death were also not different between patients with and without these findings. For patients with either SEC or CAP, there was no evidence of a differential effect of apixaban over warfarin. For patients with LA/LAA thrombus, there was also no significant interaction, with the exception of all-cause death and any bleeding where there was a greater benefit of apixaban compared with warfarin among patients with no LA/LAA thrombus.

Conclusions—

In anticoagulated patients with atrial fibrillation and risk factors for stroke, echocardiographic findings do not seem to add to the risk of thromboembolic events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00412984.
Problems with the Word Made Flesh: The Great Tradition of the Scientific Revolution in Europe
Authors: Cook Harold J.
Published: October 2017

The Great Tradition of writing about what came to be called The Scientific Revolution developed in the mid-twentieth century and helped to shape what came to be termed “early modern” Europe. At least two fundamental structural elements of the framework were that a small group of independent minds had been set free to grasp new truths, and that rivalries among many groups in Europe never allowed “European civilization” to achieve homeostasis, thus continuing to encourage innovation in conditions of freedom. It is worth noting, however, that the first of these structural elements had religious overtones that were important in the early stages of the Cold War, and that the second placed innovation within a tradition of great texts rather than material culture and practice. Both changed the earlier conversation of the 1930s, which had been about political economies, connecting the new history of science to a history that offered to explain European superiority on the basis of the search for truth. Recent developments in global history, which are rooted in economic histories, challenge such a framing. The brand-name of The Scientific Revolution is common and will remain a useful short-hand, but its meaning requires major revision and should not be limited to the history of Europe.
Thinking Without the Scientific Revolution: Global Interactions and the Construction of Knowledge
Authors: Raj Kapil
Published: October 2017

Amongst the many narrative strategies in the recent “global turn” in the history of science, one commonly finds attempts to complement the single European story by multiplying histories of knowledge-making in as many different regional and cultural contexts as possible. Other strategies include attempts to generalize the “Needham Question” of why the Scientific Revolution occurred only in early-modern Europe to the exclusion of other parts of the world, or to challenge the diffusionist vision of the spread of modern science from Europe by attempting to show that non-European scientific traditions already had an understanding of recent European discoveries. These latter strategies seek simply to pluralize the Scientific Revolution without actually unpacking the latter concept itself.

This article seeks firstly to show that the “Scientific Revolution” was in fact a Cold War invention intended to bring the freshly decolonized world into the ambit of the West by limiting the conception of modern science to Europe-specific activities thus delegitimizing other knowledge domains and using the term as a spatially circumscribed chronological marker. Using a broader understanding of scientific activity in the early modern period, and mobilizing relational methodologies, such as circulatory and connected historiographies, the paper then re-examines the well-known history of the Hortus Malabaricus, one of the most celebrated seventeenth-century botanical works, to show the short- and long-range knowledge circulations, intercultural interactions and connections involved in its making to bring out the global nature of scientific activity of the period and illustrate relational approaches to global history.
Aspidosperma brasiliense (Apocynaceae), a new and widely distributed species
Authors: DE SOUZA PEREIRA ANDREZA STEPHANIE , DEVIDES CASTELLO ANA CAROLINA , SCUDELER ANA LAURA , OLMOS SIMÕES ANDRÉ , KOCH INGRID
Published: October 2017

Aspidosperma brasiliense, a new species from Brazil and widely distributed in the country, is described and illustrated here. A comparative table based on morphological data and an identification key to Aspidosperma brasiliense and its related species are also provided.
Ilex calcicola (Aquifoliaceae), a new species from a limestone area of Guangxi, China
Authors: XU KEWANG , SHI XIANGGANG , FAN QIANG , XU WEIBIN , LIAO WENBO
Published: October 2017

Ilex calcicola (Aquifoliaceae), a new species from western Guangxi, China, is described, illustrated, and compared to two morphologically similar species: I. mamillata and I. wuana. The scanning electron micrographs of pollen grains and stomata of this new species are also showed in the plate. I. calcicola is currently known only from the limestone hills in western Guangxi.
A new species of Cinnamomum and notes on the status of C. palghatensis in Western Ghats, India
Authors: GEETHAKUMARY M. P. , DEEPU S. , PANDURANGAN A. G.
Published: October 2017

Cinnamomum gamblei, a new species of Lauraceae is described from Western Ghats, India. The new species resembles C. macrocarpum by having large fruit, but is easily recognized by its habit, leaf morphology, shape and size of tepals and 4-locellate stamens in whorl III. A detailed description along with images, distribution details, comparison with related species and other relevant notes are provided for its easy identification. The status of C. palghatensis is also discussed here.
A new species of Saxofridericia subgenus Acrotheca (Rapateaceae) from Amazonas State, Brazil
Authors: BERRY PAUL E. , KRAHL AMAURI HERBERT
Published: October 2017

Saxofridericia brasiliensis P.E.Berry & Krahl, a new species of Saxofridericia subgenus Acrotheca, is described and illustrated. It is most closely related to Saxofridericia aculeata Körnicke, but differs in its entire-margined leaves and narrower leaf blades. It is so far known only from white-sand campina vegetation north of Manaus along the Caracaraí highway in Amazonas State, Brazil.
Revision of the horseface loaches (Cobitidae, Acantopsis), with descriptions of three new species from Southeast Asia
Authors: BOYD DAVID A. , NITHIROJPAKDEE PATCHARA , DEEIN GRIDSADA , VIDTHAYANON CHAVALIT , GRUDPAN CHAIWUT , TANGJITJAROEN WEERAPONGSE , PFEIFFER JOHN M. , RANDALL ZACHARY S. , SRISOMBAT TIPPAMAS , PAGE LAWRENCE M.
Published: October 2017

Acantopsis (Cobitidae) is revised based on analysis of morphological and molecular data. Four of the six available names, A. dialuzona, A. spectabilis, A. octoactinotos, and A. thiemmedhi, are valid, and three new species, A. rungthipae, A. dinema, and A. ioa, are described. All species are described morphologically, distributions are mapped, and relationships are discussed for those for which molecular data (CO1, RAG1) are available. Labial barbels, color pattern, and meristic counts are the most diagnostic features. Although the long snout of Acantopsis is perhaps the most emblematic attribute of the genus, its relative length increases with growth, reducing its taxonomic value. Species can be difficult to identify on the basis of color pattern alone, as habitat and preservation methods appear to strongly influence the color pattern. Despite interspecific overlap of some highly variable traits, each species has a unique set of morphological characteristics that remain observable even when the color pattern is obscured, and some species are restricted to single drainages, greatly simplifying identification. The phylogenetic analyses revealed high molecular divergence between even the most morphologically similar species, with mean uncorrected CO1 p-distances between species ranging from 12.1-15.4%. Species of Acantopsis exhibit significant genetic structuring consistent with recognized freshwater ecoregions. Acanthopsis lachnostoma Rutter 1897, from Swatow, China, is not assignable to Acantopsis.
Synoptic Characteristics of Surge-Producing Extratropical Cyclones along the Northeast Coast of the United States
Authors: Catalano Arielle J. , Broccoli Anthony J.
Published: October 2017

Extratropical cyclones (ETCs) are responsible for most of the large storm-surge events in the northeastern United States. This study uses the ECMWF atmospheric reanalysis of the twentieth century (ERA-20C) and NOAA tide gauge data to examine the local, regional, and large-scale atmospheric circulation accompanying the 100 largest ETC-driven surge events at three locations along the northeastern coast of the United States: Sewells Point (Norfolk), Virginia; the Battery (New York City), New York; and Boston, Massachusetts. Results from a k-means cluster analysis indicate that the largest surges are generated when slowly propagating ETCs encounter a strong anticyclone, which produces a tighter pressure gradient and longer duration of onshore winds. The strength of the anticyclone is evident in the middle and upper troposphere where there are positive 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies overlying the surface anticyclone for the majority of clusters and nearly all of the five biggest surge events. Multiple clusters feature a slower-than-average storm and a strong anticyclone, indicating that various circulation scenarios can produce a large storm surge. This favorable environment for large surge events is influenced by well-known modes of climate variability including El Niño, the Arctic Oscillation (AO), the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and the Pacific–North American (PNA) pattern. ETCs are more likely to produce a large surge during El Niño conditions, which have been shown to enhance the East Coast storm track. At Boston and the Battery, maximum surge occurs preferentially during the positive phase of PNA and the negative phases of AO/NAO.
Object-Based Analog Forecasts for Surface Wind Speed
Authors: Frediani Maria E. B. , Hopson Thomas M. , Hacker Joshua P. , Anagnostou Emmanouil N. , Delle Monache Luca , Vandenberghe Francois
Published: October 2017

Analogs are used as a forecast postprocessing technique, in which a statistical forecast is derived from past prognostic states. This study proposes a method to identify analogs through spatial objects, which are then used to create forecast ensembles. The object-analog technique preserves the field’s spatial relationships, reduces spatial dimensionality, and consequently facilitates the use of artificial intelligence algorithms to improve analog selection. Forecast objects are created with a three-step object selection, combining standard image processing algorithms. The resulting objects are used to find similar forecasts in a training set with a similarity measure based on object area intersection and magnitude. Storm-induced power outages in the Northeast United States motivated the method’s validation for 10-m AGL wind speed forecasts. The training set comprises reforecasts and reanalyses of events that caused damages to the utility infrastructure. The corresponding reanalyses of the best reforecast analogs are used to produce the object-analog ensemble forecasts. The forecasts are compared with other analog forecast methods. Analogs representing lower and upper predictability limits provide references to distinguish the method’s ability (to find good analogs) from the training set’s ability (to provide good analogs) to generate skillful ensemble forecasts. The object-analog forecasts are competitively skillful compared to simpler analog techniques with an advantage of lower spatial dimensionality, while generating reliable ensemble forecasts, with reduced systematic and random errors, maintaining correlation, and improving Brier scores.
Endocan Concentration in Patients With Primary Hypertension
Authors: Musialowska Dominika , Zbroch Edyta , Koc-Zorawska Ewa , Musialowski Piotr , Malyszko Jolanta
Published: October 2017

Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction may play an important role in the multifactorial pathogenesis of hypertension. Endocan is also thought to play a role in cell adhesion and inflammatory disorders. The aim of the study was to compare endocan concentrations in patients with primary hypertension and healthy volunteers. There were 104 patients with hypertension (study group) and 21 healthy volunteers (control group). The correlation between endocan, catecholamines, and blood pressure control in patients with primary hypertension and the control group was analyzed. The median endocan concentration in the study group (2.03 ng/mL) was significantly higher than in the control group (1.09 ng/mL, P = .0001). Endocan concentration was correlated positively with renalase ( r = .2, P = .047) and norepinephrine ( r = .25, P = .02). Negative correlation was observed between endocan and body mass index ( r = −.25, P = .016) and leukocyte count ( r = −.36, P = .0004). The present study reports higher plasma endocan concentration in patients with treated, well-controlled primary hypertension compared with healthy volunteers. The higher endocan concentration in the study group may reflect endothelial dysfunction in this population.