bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Diversity of the Extensor Digitorum Profundus Muscle Complex in Platyrrhini
Authors: Novikova Mellin A. , Panyutina Aleksandra A.
Published: August 2017

Separate extension of fingers in the hand of primates is performed by 3 muscles: m. extensor pollicis longus, m. extensor digiti secundi, and m. extensor digitorum lateralis. Here it is proposed to consider them as parts of the extensor digitorum profundus muscular complex. The diversity in structure of these muscles in primates is examined based both on original anatomical study of New World monkeys and analysis of extensive published data on primates from different taxonomic groups. It is shown that in these muscles there are 2 main types of structure variations - the division of the muscle belly into several heads which give rise to separate tendons, and the split of the single terminal tendon into several branches. The first type of modification ensures the possibility of a separate management of the fingers, and the second, on the contrary, ensures the coupled control of extension of fingers. A scheme of evolutionary transformations of muscles belonging to the complex of the deep extensors of fingers is proposed.
Genomic and Cytogenetic Characterization of a Balanced Translocation Disrupting NUP98
Authors: Thibodeau My Linh , Steinraths Michelle , Brown Lindsay , Zong Zheyuan , Shomer Naomi , Taubert Stefan , Mungall Karen L. , Ma Yussanne P. , Mueller Rosemary , Birol Inanc , Lehman Anna
Published: August 2017

A 41-year-old Asian woman with bilateral renal angiomyolipomas (AML) was incidentally identified to have a balanced translocation, 46,XX,t(11;12)(p15.4;q15). She had no other features or family history to suggest a diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis. Her healthy daughter had the same translocation and no renal AML at the age of 3 years. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on genomic maternal DNA isolated from blood. A targeted de novo assembly was then conducted with ABySS for chromosomes 11 and 12. Sanger sequencing was used to validate the translocation breakpoints. As a result, genomic characterization of chromosomes 11 and 12 revealed that the 11p breakpoint disrupted the NUP98 gene in intron 1, causing a separation of the promoter and transcription start site from the rest of the gene. The translocation breakpoint on chromosome 12q was located in a gene desert. NUP98 has not yet been associated with renal AML pathogenesis, but somatic NUP98 alterations are recurrently implicated in hematological malignancies, most often following a gene fusion event. We also found evidence for complex structural events involving chromosome 12, which appear to disrupt the TDG gene. We identified a TDGP1 partially processed pseudogene at 12p12.1, which adds complexity to the de novo assembly. In conclusion, this is the first report of a germline constitutional structural chromosome rearrangement disrupting NUP98 that occurred in a generally healthy woman with bilateral renal AML.
Freezing Fort Knox: Mesenteric Carcinoid Cryoablation
Authors: Soule Erik , Bagherpour Arya , Matteo Jerry
Published: August 2017

Background: Neuroendocrine malignancy is indolent, yet relentless in its propensity to metastasize to the liver, where it may cause bizarre paraneoplastic syndromes. The pathophysiologic mechanism behind this predilection for hepatic metastasis is twofold: the portal venous system drains the most likely primary sites for neuroendocrine tumors, and the relatively immunosuppressed environment within the hepatic parenchyma is permissive for tumor growth. The standard of care for patients with metastatic neuroendocrine tumor is surgical resection of at least 90% of the tumor burden. Methods: This report describes CT-guided percutaneous cryoablation of an inoperable mesenteric carcinoid tumor that had previously demonstrated hepatic metastases utilizing hydrodissection to safely and effectively prevent further metastasis while priming the immune system to eradicate this malignancy systemically. Results: CT-guided percutaneous cryoablation is minimally invasive, has intrinsic analgesic properties, and may contribute to sensitization of the immune system against tumor antigens. Conclusion: Percutaneous cryoablation with hydrodissection can be used to target intraabdominal malignancy in poor surgical candidates. This procedure is safe, effective, and minimally invasive.
Autophagy Inhibition Contributes to ROS-Producing NLRP3-Dependent Inflammasome Activation and Cytokine Secretion in High Glucose-Induced Macrophages
Authors: Dai Jiezhi , Zhang Xiaotian , Li Li , Chen Hua  , Chai Yimin
Published: August 2017

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a persistent inflammatory response that impairs the healing process. We hypothesized that stimulation with high glucose following a pro-inflammatory signal would lead to autophagy inhibition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and eventually to the activation of the Nod-like receptor protein (NLRP) -3. Methods: Macrophages were isolated from human diabetic wound. We measured the expression of NLRP3, caspase1 and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) by western blot and real-time PCR, and the surface markers on cells by flow cytometry. THP-1-derived macrophages exposed to high glucose were applied to study the link between autophagy, ROS and NLRP3 activation. LC3-II, P62, NLRP3 inflammation and IL-1β expression were measured by western blot and real-time PCR. ROS production was measured with a Cellular Reactive Oxygen Species Detection Assay Kit. Results: Macrophages isolated from diabetic wounds exhibited a pro-inflammatory phenotype, including sustained NLRP3 inflammasome activity associated with IL-1β secretion. Our data showed that high glucose inhibited autophagy, induced ROS production, and activated NLRP3 inflammasome and cytokine secretion in THP-1-derived macrophages. To study high glucose-induced NLRP3 inflammasome signalling, we performed studies using an autophagy inducer, a ROS inhibitor and a NLRP3 inhibitor and found that all reduced the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cytokine secretion. Conclusion: Sustained NLRP3 inflammasome activity in wound-derived macrophages contributes to the hyper-inflammation in human diabetic wounds. Autophagy inhibition and ROS generation play an essential role in high glucose-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cytokine secretion in macrophages.
Cytokine Release and Focal Adhesion Proteins in Normal Thyroid Cells Cultured on the Random Positioning Machine
Authors: Warnke Elisabeth , Pietsch Jessica , Kopp Sascha , Bauer Johann , Sahana Jayashree , Wehland Markus , Krüger Marcus , Hemmersbach Ruth , Infanger Manfred , Lützenberg Ronald , Grimm Daniela
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: Spaceflight impacts on the function of the thyroid gland in vivo. In vitro normal and malignant thyrocytes assemble in part to multicellular spheroids (MCS) after exposure to the random positioning machine (RPM), while a number of cells remain adherent (AD). We aim to elucidate possible differences between AD and MCS cells compared to 1g-controls of normal human thyroid cells. Methods: Cells of the human follicular epithelial thyroid cell line Nthy-ori 3-1 were incubated for up to 72 h on the RPM. Afterwards, they were investigated by phase-contrast microscopy, quantitative real-time PCR and by determination of cytokines released in their supernatants. Results: A significant up-regulation of IL6, IL8 and CCL2 gene expression was found after a 4h RPM-exposure, when the whole population was still growing adherently. MCS and AD cells were detected after 24 h on the RPM. At this time, a significantly reduced gene expression in MCS compared to 1g-controls was visible for IL6, IL8, FN1, ITGB1, LAMA1, CCL2, and TLN1. After a 72 h RPM-exposure, IL-6, IL-8, and TIMP-1 secretion rates were increased significantly. Conclusion: Normal thyrocytes form MCS within 24 h. Cytokines seem to be involved in the initiation of MCS formation via focal adhesion proteins.
The Ameliorative Effect of Pectin-Insulin Patch On Renal Injury in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sibiya Ntethelelo , Ngubane Phikelelani , Mabandla Musa
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: Renal damage and dysfunction is attributed to sustained hyperglycaemia in overt diabetes. Subcutaneous insulin injections are beneficial in delaying the progression of renal dysfunction and damage in diabetics. However, the current mode of administration is associated with severe undesirable effects. In this study, we evaluated the ameliorative effects of pectin-insulin dermal patches on renal dysfunction in diabetes. Methods: Pectin-insulin patches (20.0, 40.8 and 82.9 µg/kg) were applied on the skin of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, thrice daily for 5 weeks. Blood glucose concentration, blood pressure and urine output volume were recorded on week 5 after which the animals were sacrificed after which the kidneys and plasma were collected. Kidney nephrin expression and urinary nephrin concentration, albumin excretion rate (AER), creatinine clearance (CC) and albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) were assessed. Results: Patch application resulted in reduced blood glucose concentration and blood pressure. Furthermore, pectin-insulin patch treatment resulted in increased kidney nephrin expression and reduced urinary nephrin concentration. AER, CC ACR were also reduced post patch application. Conclusions: The application of pectin-insulin patch limited diabetes associated kidney damaged and improved kidney function. These observations suggest that pectin-insulin patches may ameliorate kidney dysfunction that is associated with chronic subcutaneous insulin administration.
Hydrogen Sulfide-Preconditioning of Human Endothelial Progenitor Cells Transplantation Improves Re-Endothelialization in Nude Mice with Carotid Artery Injury
Authors: Ke Xiao , Zou Jun , Hu Qingsong , Wang Xiaoqing , Hu Chengheng , Yang Rongfeng , Liang Jiawen , Shu Xiaorong , Nie Ruqiong , Peng Changnong
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: The aim of present study was to test the hypothesis that preconditioning with sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) could enhance the capacity of migration, adhesion and proliferation of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in vitro, and also could improve the efficacy of EPCs transplantation for re-endothelialization in nude mice with carotid artery injury. The paper further addressed the underlying mechanisms. Methods: EPCs were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy male volunteers and the markers of EPCs were analyzed by flow cytometry. Thereafter, different concentrations of NaHS (25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 uM) were used for preconditioning EPCs. In vitro and in vivo migration, adhesion and proliferation as well as nitric oxide (NO) production of EPCs were evaluated. Carotid artery injury model was produced in nude mice and thereafter, NaHS-preconditioned EPCs were transplanted in order to evaluate their capacity of re-endothelialization. Results: Cellular immuno-staining showed that isolated cells expressed the key markers of EPCs. In vitro, EPCs proliferation rates and NO production were gradually increased in a NaHS-concentration dependent manner, while these benefits were blocked at a concentration of 500 uM NaHS. Similarly, the migration and adhesion rates of EPCs were also increased the most prominently at a concentration of 200 µM NaHS. In vivo, compared to the control group, treatment with NaHS-preconditioned EPCs significantly enhanced the capacity of re-endothelialization of EPCs. Fluorescent microscope revealed that there were more EPCs homing to the injury vessels in the NaHS-preconditioned EPCs group than the non-preconditioned group. With the administration of AMPK or eNOS inhibitors respectively, the above benefits of NaHS-preconditioning were abrogated. Conclusion: These results suggested that NaHS-preconditioning enhanced the biological function and re-endothelialization of EPCs through the AMPK/eNOS signaling pathway.
Design and Implementation of Three Phase Reversing Voltage Multilevel Inverter
Authors: Vijaykrishna G. , Kusumalatha Y.
Published: August 2017

This paper examines how a Reversing voltage multilevel inverter (RVMLI) strategy is enforced to develop multilevel inverter fulfilment. This approach has been used SPWM-PD technique to regulate the electrical inverter. It desires numerous less range of carrier signals to deliver gate pulses of switches. Increasing within the levels during this strategy aid in reduction of output voltage harmonics expeditiously and improves power quality at output of the electrical inverter. It wants a lowered quantity of total switches, which is in a position to decreases of switching losses in this process. The Three-phase reversing voltage multilevel inverter of 7- level and 9- level is accomplished for R-load and R-L load and Three Phase Induction Motor. A reversing voltage multilevel inverter of 7- level and 9- level simulation is intended and developed. Mat lab/Simulink outcome is awarded to validate the proposed scheme.
Harmonic Elimination of Seven Level Inverter with Switching Pattern Reconfiguration Technique Using Hybrid BBO/MAS Algorithm
Authors: Kavitha R. , Thottungal Rani , R Brindha.
Published: August 2017

A hybrid optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper to find the optimum switching angles in a Cascaded Multilevel Inverter (CMLI). A seven level cascaded inverter is considered and optimum switching angles are found by hybrid Biogeographical Based Optimization search (BBO) / Mesh Adaptive Direct Search (MAS) algorithm. The fundamental frequency Selective Harmonic Elimination-Pulse Width Modulation (SHE-PWM)  technique is applied in order to reduce the switching losses.Reconfiguration technique is also proposed to achieve harmonic elimination for entire  Modulation index(M). The various performance indices like phase THD, line THD, lower order harmonics eliminated in a CMLI are calculated based on the optimized switching angles. A seven level CMLI is simulated in MATLAB/SIMULINK by using switching angles calculated from BBO/MAS algorithm and the FFT analysis of traditional SHE-PWM and reconfiguration SHE-PWM methods are compared and verified with the calculated values from BBO/MAS algorithm.
Z- Source Inverter Based Dynamic Voltage Restorer for the Mitigation of Voltage Sag/Swell
Authors: Prameela K. , Kumar D. Vijay , Trinadha B.
Published: August 2017

This paper uses super capacitor as the energy storage device for the DVR to compensate voltage sag, voltage swell and harmonics due to addition of nonlinear load in the distribution line. Based on this topology, DVR consist of super capacitor, z source inverter and injection transformer. Super capacitor produces the necessary dc voltage which is given as the input voltage to the z-source inverter; provide the necessary injecting voltage, which has to be restored. A new topology based on Z-source inverter is presented in order to enhance the voltage restoration property of dynamic voltage restorer. Z-source inverter would ensure a constant DC voltage across the DC-link during the process of voltage compensation. The modeling of Z-source based dynamic voltage restorer is carried out component wise and their performances are analyzed using MATLAB software
Performance Analysis of 5-Phase Multi-level Inverter Using Carrier Based PWM Technique
Authors: Lavanya M. , Jyothi B.
Published: August 2017

The major analysis has been based on the induction machine drive system that is for the analysis of the carrier based PWM two level source inverter. The unbalanced conditions are mainly to handle the results of simulation for the analysis that results in the two fault conditions. The system setup has been involving the voltage source inverter as well as the five phase multi-level inverter. The effects are through performing the scenarios which consider the performance effects with the load on induction machine. The simulation is based on the imbalance conditions which results on the oscillations depending on the electromagnetic torque through the attendant reduction of the torque rating. The larger slipping has been in the rotor speed.
Techno-Economic Evaluation of Stand-alone Hybrid Renewable Energy System for Remote Village Using HOMER-Pro Software
Authors: Pradhan Ajoya Kumar , Mohanty Mahendra Kumar , Kar Sanjeeb Kumar
Published: August 2017

The off-grid hybrid renewable energy generation system has lesser cost of energy with higher reliability when compared with solar photovoltaic (PV) or wind energy system individually. The optimization design is worked out by reducing the unit cost of energy (UCOE) for different case studies and comparing the outcomes obtained by the use of HOMER-Pro (Hybrid Optimization Model of Electric Renewable) software. The optimal cash flow analysis of hybrid energy system is based on the load patterns is discussed, solar irradiance (kW/m2) of site at proper latitude and longitude, wind speed and price of diesel, which is collected from a remote village in Khurda District, Odisha in India. Moreover, the optimization and sensitivity results of the system are find out by varying the input parameters like solar radiation, wind speed etc.
Islanding Detection in a Distribution System with Modified DG Interface Controller
Authors: Subhadra Abbineni Sai , Reddy P.Linga , Modi Shailesh . B
Published: August 2017

Islanding detection of Distributed Generation (DG) is considered as one of the most important aspects when interconnecting DGs to the distribution system. It was the crucial problem in distributed generation. This detection phenomenon having a great importance. These detection methods are divided into active and passive islanding detection. These two methods are based on changing in parameters such as frequency, voltage and current harmonics. But these methods have some challenges such as reduction in power quality and large Non Detection Zone (NDZ). In this paper, the proposed method is change of Total harmonic distortion (THD) will be studied for islanding detection diagnosis. The studied system was considered by following the standard IEEE-1547 and UL-1741.The system was simulated using MATLAB/ SIMULINK.
Steady State and Transient Analysis of Grid Connected Doubly Fed Induction Generator Under Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Dhillon Sukhwinder Singh , Lather Jagdeep Singh , Marwaha Sanjay
Published: August 2017

This paper present steady state and dynamic (Transient) models of the doubly fed induction generator connected to grid. The steady state model of the DFIAG (Doubly Fed Asynchronous induction Generator) has been constructed by referring all the rotor quantities to stator side. With the help of MATLAB programming simulation results are obtained to depict the steady state response of electromechanical torque, rotor speed, stator and rotor currents, stator and rotor fluxes, active and reactive drawn and delivered by Doubly fed Asynchronous Induction machine (DFAIM) as it is operating in two modes i.e. generator and motor. The mathematical steady state and transient model of the DFIAM is constructed for three basic reference frames such as rotor, stator and synchronously revolving reference frame using first order deferential equations. The effect of unsaturated and saturated resultant flux on the mutual inductance is also taken into account to deeply understand the dynamic response of the machine. The steady state and dynamic response of the DFAIG are compared for different rotor voltage magnitudes. Also, the effect of variations in mechanical input torque, stator voltage variations are simulated to predict the stator and rotor currents, active and reactive power, electromagnetic torque and rotor speed variations.
Fully Transradial Versus Transfemoral Approach for Percutaneous Intervention of Coronary Chronic Total Occlusions Applying the Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Bakker Erik Jan , Maeremans Joren , Zivelonghi Carlo , Faurie Benjamin , Avran Alexandre , Walsh Simon , Spratt James C. , Knaapen Paul , Hanratty Colm G. , Bressollette Erwan , Kayaert Peter , Bagnall Alan J. , Egred Mohaned , Smith David , McEntegart Margaret B. , Smith William H.T. , Kelly Paul , Irving John , Smith Elliot J. , Strange Julian W. , Dens Joseph , Agostoni Pierfrancesco
Published: August 2017

Background—

Small observational studies demonstrate the feasibility of transradial approach for chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention. The aim of the current study is to assess technical success, complication rates, and procedural efficiency in fully transradial approach (fTRA) and transfemoral approach (TFA) in a large prospective European registry adopting the hybrid algorithm for CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (Registry of CrossBoss and Hybrid Procedures in France, the Netherlands, Belgium and United Kingdom, RECHARGE registry).

Methods and Results—

We analyzed 1253 CTO percutaneous coronary intervention procedures performed according to the hybrid protocol in 17 European centers, comparing fTRA (single or biradial access) and TFA (single or bifemoral or combined radial and femoral access). fTRA was applied in 306 (24%) and TFA in 947 (76%) cases. The average Japanese CTO score was 2.1±1.2 in fTRA and 2.3±1.1 in TFA (
P
=0.06). Technical success was achieved in 85% in fTRA and 86% in TFA (
P
=0.51). Technical success was comparable for fTRA and TFA in different Japanese CTO score subgroups after multivariable analysis and after propensity adjustment. In-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebral events occurred in 2.0% in fTRA and 2.9% in TFA (
P
=0.40). Major access site bleeding occurred in 0.3% in fTRA and 0.5% in TFA (
P
=0.66). fTRA compared with TFA had similar procedural duration (80 minutes [54–120 minutes] versus 90 minutes [60–121 minutes];
P
=0.07), similar radiation dose (dose area product 89 Gray×cm
2
[52–163 Gray×cm
2
] versus 101 Gray×cm
2
[59–171 Gray×cm
2
];
P
=0.06), and lower contrast agent use (200 mL [150–310 mL] versus 250 mL [200–350 mL];
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

fTRA CTO percutaneous coronary intervention is a valid alternative to TFA with a high rate of success, low complication rates, and no decrease in procedural efficiency.
MerTK Cleavage on Resident Cardiac Macrophages Compromises Repair After Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: DeBerge Matthew , Yeap Xin Yi , Dehn Shirley , Zhang Shuang , Grigoryeva Lubov , Misener Sol , Procissi Daniel , Zhou Xin , Lee Daniel C. , Muller William A. , Luo Xunrong , Rothlin Carla , Tabas Ira , Thorp Edward B.
Published: August 2017

Rationale:

Clinical benefits of reperfusion after myocardial infarction are offset by maladaptive innate immune cell function, and therapeutic interventions are lacking.

Objective
:

We sought to test the significance of phagocytic clearance by resident and recruited phagocytes after myocardial ischemia reperfusion.

Methods and Results:

In humans, we discovered that clinical reperfusion after myocardial infarction led to significant elevation of the soluble form of MerTK (myeloid-epithelial-reproductive tyrosine kinase; ie, soluble MER), a critical biomarker of compromised phagocytosis by innate macrophages. In reperfused mice, macrophage
Mertk
deficiency led to decreased cardiac wound debridement, increased infarct size, and depressed cardiac function, newly implicating MerTK in cardiac repair after myocardial ischemia reperfusion. More notably,
Mertk(CR
) mice, which are resistant to cleavage, showed significantly reduced infarct sizes and improved systolic function. In contrast to other cardiac phagocyte subsets, resident cardiac MHCII
LO
CCR2
−
(major histocompatibility complex II/C-C motif chemokine receptor type 2) macrophages expressed higher levels of MerTK and, when exposed to apoptotic cells, secreted proreparative cytokines, including transforming growth factor-β.
Mertk
deficiency compromised the accumulation of MHCII
LO
phagocytes, and this was rescued in
Mertk(CR
) mice. Interestingly, blockade of CCR2-dependent monocyte infiltration into the heart reduced soluble MER levels post-ischemia reperfusion.

Conclusions:

Our data implicate monocyte-induced MerTK cleavage on proreparative MHCII
LO
cardiac macrophages as a novel contributor and therapeutic target of reperfusion injury.
Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 Inhibits Neointima Formation by Engaging Krüppel-Like Factor 4 Signaling
Authors: Cheng Wen-Lin , She Zhi-Gang , Qin Juan-Juan , Guo Jun-Hong , Gong Fu-Han , Zhang Peng , Fang Chun , Tian Song , Zhu Xue-Yong , Gong Jun , Wang Zhi-Hua , Huang Zan , Li Hongliang
Published: August 2017

Background:

The mechanisms underlying neointima formation remain unclear. Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs), which are key innate immune regulators, play important roles in cardiometabolic diseases. However, the function of IRF4 in arterial restenosis is unknown.

Methods:

IRF4 expression was first detected in human and mouse restenotic arteries. Then, the effects of IRF4 on neointima formation were evaluated with universal IRF4-deficient mouse and rat carotid artery injury models. We performed immunostaining to identify IRF4-expressing cells in the lesions. Smooth muscle cell (SMC)–specific IRF4-knockout (KO) and -transgenic (TG) mice were generated to evaluate the effects of SMC-IRF4 on neointima formation. We used microarray, bioinformatics analysis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay to identify the downstream signals of IRF4 and to verify the targets in vitro. We compared SMC-IRF4-KO/Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4)–TG mice with SMC-IRF4-KO mice and SMC-specific IRF4-TG/KLF4-KO mice with SMC-specific IRF4-TG mice to investigate whether the effect of IRF4 on neointima formation is KLF4-dependent. The effect of IRF4 on SMC phenotype switching was also evaluated.

Results:

IRF4 expression in both the human and mouse restenotic arteries is eventually downregulated. Universal IRF4 ablation potentiates neointima formation in both mice and rats. Immunostaining indicated that IRF4 was expressed primarily in SMCs in restenotic arteries. After injury, SMC-IRF4-KO mice developed a thicker neointima than control mice. This change was accompanied by increased SMC proliferation and migration. However, SMC-specific IRF4-TG mice exhibited the opposite phenotype, demonstrating that IRF4 exerts protective effects against neointima formation. The mechanistic study indicated that IRF4 promotes KLF4 expression by directly binding to its promoter. Genetic overexpression of KLF4 in SMCs largely reversed the neointima-promoting effect of IRF4 ablation, whereas ablation of KLF4 abolished the protective function of IRF4, indicating that the protective effects of IRF4 against neointima formation are KLF4-dependent. In addition, IRF4 promoted SMC dedifferentiation.

Conclusions:

IRF4 protects arteries against neointima formation by promoting the expression of KLF4 by directly binding to its promoter. Our findings suggest that this previously undiscovered IRF4-KLF4 axis plays a key role in vasculoproliferative pathology and may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of arterial restenosis.
Exploring Coronary Circulatory Response to Stenosis and Its Association With Invasive Physiologic Indexes Using Absolute Myocardial Blood Flow and Coronary Pressure
Authors: Lee Joo Myung , Hwang Doyeon , Park Jonghanne , Zhang Jinlong , Tong Yaliang , Kim Chee Hae , Bang Ji-In , Suh Minseok , Paeng Jin Chul , Cheon Gi Jeong , Koo Bon-Kwon
Published: August 2017

Background:

Although invasive physiological assessment for coronary stenosis has become a standard practice to guide treatment strategy, coronary circulatory response and changes in invasive physiological indexes, according to different anatomic and hemodynamic lesion severity, have not been fully demonstrated in patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods:

One hundred fifteen patients with left anterior descending artery stenosis who underwent both
13
N-ammonia positron emission tomography and invasive physiological measurement were analyzed. Myocardial blood flow (MBF) measured with positron emission tomography and invasively measured coronary pressures were used to calculate microvascular resistance and stenosis resistance.

Results:

With progressive worsening of angiographic stenosis severity, both resting and hyperemic transstenotic pressure gradient and stenosis resistance increased (
P
<0.001 for all) and hyperemic MBF (
P
<0.001) and resting microvascular resistance (
P
=0.012) decreased. Resting MBF (
P
=0.383) and hyperemic microvascular resistance (
P
=0.431) were not changed and maintained stable. Both fractional flow reserve and instantaneous wave-free ratio decreased as angiographic stenosis severity, stenosis resistance, and transstenotic pressure gradient increased and hyperemic MBF decreased (all
P
<0.001). When the presence of myocardial ischemia was defined by both low hyperemic MBF and low coronary flow reserve, the diagnostic accuracy of fractional flow reserve and instantaneous wave-free ratio did not differ, regardless of cutoff values of hyperemic MBF and coronary flow reserve.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated how the coronary circulation changes in response to increasing coronary stenosis severity using
13
N-ammonium positron emission tomography–derived MBF and invasively measured pressure data. Currently used resting and hyperemic pressure–derived invasive physiological indexes have similar patterns of relationships to the different anatomic and hemodynamic lesion severities.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01366404.
Western Pacific Euryplacidae Stimpson, 1871 and Goneplacidae MacLeay, 1838 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Goneplacoidea) in the Senckenberg Naturmuseum, Frankfurt
Authors: Castro P.
Published: August 2017

Examination of the western Pacific material of goneplacoid crabs (families Euryplacidae and Goneplacidae) in the Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt a. M. (Germany) particularly uncatalogued material examined by Tune Sakai, allowed the discovery of the holotype of Eucrate formosensis Sakai, 1974 (Euryplacidae), as well as the identification of some rarely collected species.
New records of king crabs (Decapoda, Anomura, Lithodidae) from southern Brazil
Authors: Lianos L. , Mollemberg M. C. , Lima D. J. M. , Santana W.
Published: August 2017

Until now only six species of lithodids have been found occasionally in the Brazilian coast. Most king crabs are accidentally caught during fisheries targeting other species. Herein we report new records for Lithodes confundens and Neolithodes aff. asperrimus from the south of Brazil, from the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, respectively. Lithodes confundens is found in the western Atlantic with a previous northern limit in the Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Neolithodes aff. asperrimus is known to occur only along the western coast of Africa in the eastern Atlantic and this is the first record of the species in the western Atlantic.
A new species of the genus Typhlamphiascus (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Miraciidae) from the South China Sea
Authors: Ma Lin , Li Xinzheng
Published: August 2017

A new species, Typhlamphiascus tuerkayi sp. nov. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Miraciiidae), is described from specimens collected in the South China Sea. This new species differs from its congeners by the combined characters of the number of chitinous lamellae on the male P1, the apomorphic setal formulae of the swimming legs, and the setal number on P5. The new species is most similar to T. ovale Wells & Rao, 1987 and T. higginsi Chullasorn, 2009. It differs from the latter two species by the following features: the caudal ramus about three times as long as broad, P2 exp-3 with three outer spines, P3 enp-3 with two inner setae, P5 basoendopod in the female with four setae, P5 exopod in the female about three times as long as its greatest width, antennule of male 9-segmented, the inner edge of the basis in male P1 with eight chitinous lamellae, P5 exopod in male with four setae.
Description of a new species of Pachycheles (Decapoda, Anomura, Porcellanidae) from the southern Caribbean Sea
Authors: Werding Bernd , Hiller Alexandra
Published: August 2017

A new species of porcellanid crab from the southern Caribbean Sea is described. Pachycheles tuerkayi n. sp. has been confused with P. serratus (Benedict, 1901) since the 1950s because the two species are morphologically and ecologically similar and have overlapping distributions in the southern Caribbean. P. tuerkayi n. sp. is restricted to the coasts of Costa Rica, Panamá and Colombia. P. serratus ranges from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to the coasts of Panamá, Colombia and Venezuela. Genetic differences based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rDNA gene from the two species surpassed those estimated for geminate porcellanids on each side of the Isthmus of Panamá. Field observations where P. tuerkayi n. sp. and P. serratus overlap indicated that the two species come into contact when sharing the same substrate. The total number of porcellanid species in the western Atlantic rises to 50.
Two new species of Thalamita Latreille, 1829 (Decapoda, Portunidae)
Authors: Spiridonov Vassily A.
Published: August 2017

Thalamita matzuzawai sp. n. is described from the subtidal zone of Shikoku, Japan. This species is most similar to Thalamita picta Stimpson, 1858 and T. simillima Crosnier, 2002. It also shows similarity to the group of Thalamita species with a supplementary tooth at the base of the first anterolateral tooth, thus representing an intermediate position between these two groups. Thalamita williami sp. n. is described from Brunei. It belongs to the T. crenata Rüppell, 1830 group and is most similar to T. starobogatovi Tien, 1969.
A new black fly species of Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Taiwan, with keys to all 13 species of the Simulium varicorne species-group
Authors: TAKAOKA HIROYUKI , HUANG YAO-TE
Published: August 2017

Simulium (Gomphostilbia) huangi sp. nov. is described from female, male, pupal and larval specimens collected from Taiwan. This new species is placed in the Simulium burtoni subgroup of the Simulium varicorne species-group of the subgenus Gomphostilbia, one of the two largest subgenera of the genus Simulium in the Oriental Region. This species also represents a new record of the S. varicorne species-group from Taiwan. It is characterized in the adults by the antenna with eight flagellomeres almost uniformly darkened, in the pupa by gill filaments arranged as [(1+2) +(1+2)] + 2, and a pair of terminal hooks much widened, each with a serrated outer margin, and in the larva by the medium-long postgenal cleft. Taxonomic notes to distinguish this new species from four other known species of the S. burtoni subgroup from other countries are provided. Revised keys to all the 13 species of the S. varicorne species-group are given.
Redescription of Seira pallidipes Reuter, 1895 and its synonymization with Seira pillichi Stach, 1930 (Collembola, Entomobryidae, Seirini)
Authors: WINKLER DANIEL , DÁNYI LÁSZLÓ
Published: August 2017

Detailed and fully illustrated redescription of Seira pallidipes Reuter, 1895 is given based on specimens from the type locality. Examination of further specimens from the type locality of Seira pillichi Stach, 1930 has shown the identity of these two species justifying their synonymization: that Seira pillichi Stach, 1930 is a junior subjective synonym of Seira pallidipes Reuter, 1895 (syn. nov.). Variability in chaetotaxy is documented and discussed as well.
Taxonomic changes in Salyavatinae (Heteroptera: Reduviidae), with an updated generic key
Authors: SWANSON DANIEL R.
Published: August 2017

The genera of Salyavatinae are briefly discussed. Nudiscutella frontispina Murugan & Livingstone, 1990 is considered a junior synonym of Paralisarda malabarica Miller, 1957 syn. nov. Thirteen species are transferred from Petalocheirus Palisot de Beauvois, 1805 and the following new combinations are proposed: Alvilla gulosa (Miller, 1940) comb. nov.; Alvilla obesa (Miller, 1940) comb. nov.; Alvilla spinosissima (Distant, 1903) comb. nov.; Alvilla tyrannus (Miller, 1940) comb. nov.; Platychiria congolensis (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria lapidaria (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria montana (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria praecox (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria similis (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria striata (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria ugandensis (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; Platychiria unicolor (Miller, 1950) comb. nov.; and Rhachicephala fasciata (Distant, 1903) comb. nov.. Petalocheirus singularis Walker, 1873 is resurrected from synonymy under Petalocheirus malayus Stål, 1859 and transferred to Rhachicephala Truong, Zhao & Cai, 2007, resulting in Rhachicephala singularis (Walker, 1873) stat. rev. et comb. nov. A supplementary description of the female of Valentia langkawiensis Miller, 1940 is included. An updated key to the world genera of Salyavatinae concludes the study.
Northern North Atlantic Sea Level in CMIP5 Climate Models: Evaluation of Mean State, Variability, and Trends against Altimetric Observations
Authors: Richter Kristin , Øie Nilsen Jan Even , Raj Roshin P. , Bethke Ingo , Johannessen Johnny A. , Slangen Aimée B. A. , Marzeion Ben
Published: August 2017

The northern North Atlantic comprises a dynamically complex area with distinct topographic features, making it challenging to model oceanic features with global climate models. As climate models form the basis for assessment reports of future regional sea level rise, model evaluation is important. In this study, the representation of regional sea level in this area is evaluated in 18 climate models that contributed to phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. Modeled regional dynamic height is compared to observations from an altimetry-based record over the period 1993–2012 in terms of mean dynamic topography, interannual variability, and linear trend patterns. As models are expected to reproduce the location and magnitude but not the timing of internal variability, the observations are compared to the full 150-yr historical simulations using 20-yr time slices. This approach allows one to examine modeled natural variability versus observed changes and to assess whether a forced signal is detectable over the 20-yr record or whether the observed changes can be explained by internal variability. The models perform well with respect to mean dynamic topography. However, model performances degrade when interannual variability and linear trend patterns are considered. The modeled regionwide average steric and dynamic sea level rise is larger than estimated from observations, and the marked observed increase in the subpolar gyre is not consistent with a forced response but rather a result of internal variability. Using a simple weighting scheme, it is shown that the results can be used to reduce uncertainties in sea level projections.
The occupational integration of migrant women in Western European labour markets
Authors: Ballarino Gabriele , Panichella Nazareno
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the integration of migrant women in six European labour markets, highlighting how their migration penalty is related to the family’s migration dynamics and to the husband’s occupational condition. In order to compare the labour market outcomes of native and migrant women, Linear Probability Models are estimated using EU–LFS data. Results show that migrant women are penalized everywhere. However, in the Mediterranean labour markets their employment penalty is lower, while the penalty concerning job quality, conditional on employment, is relatively severe. Regarding the role of family migration, results show that: tied-movers women were disadvantaged with respect to both natives and other migrants; those migrants whose partners were unemployed or had low-quality jobs were more likely to find a job than those whose husbands had a good occupational condition. Both patterns were stronger in Mediterranean labour markets.
SIM as a Generator of Systematics and Theory Logics, and a Science of Design and Repair
Authors: Mitnick Barry M.
Published: August 2017

In Sandra Waddock’s article “Taking Stock of SIM” in this journal, she identifies key issues in the work of the Social Issues in Management (SIM) Division of the Academy of Management. This article challenges her analysis of SIM scholarship and her arguments of what is necessary for the division to progress. Scholarship in SIM should emphasize two key streams: First, scholars in SIM should seek to develop a science of social forensics, design, and social repair—in essence, develop a method of problem diagnosis, an approach to practical solution design, and a systematic understanding of the selection and implementation of social repair—in other words, seek to understand how to systematically troubleshoot and engineer solutions to fundamental issues in the business and society interface. The second stream, which informs the first, involves the development of original, core, transferable systematics that can “travel”—be the source of understanding-generating analysis—in other disciplines, including the topical regions of the Academy of Management. The article argues that laying claim to and developing true normative theory applicable across disciplines should be a distinctive identifier of work in SIM. The article concludes with an illustration of how systematics can be applied to address the literature’s failure to even seek to understand the logic underlying the standard ethical theories. These theories are properly seen as complements rather than substitutes. We need to ask and answer the “fundamental question of business ethics”: What should I do? .We suggest an approach labeled “integrative ethics,” employing ethical frames/injunctive formats, framed contexts for action, and the distribution of desires.
Democracy Aid and Electoral Accountability
Authors: Heinrich Tobias , Loftis Matt W.
Published: August 2017

Although foreign policies often fail to successfully promote democracy, over a decade of empirical research indicates that foreign aid specifically for democracy promotion is remarkably successful at improving the survival and institutional strength of fragile democracies. However, these measures cannot tell us how well democracy aid supports the central promise of democracy: accountable government. Since institutions can be subverted in various ways that undermine accountability, it is vital to know whether democracy aid supports accountability to assess its overall success. We provide evidence for this by analyzing incumbent turnover in elections, following poor economic performance—the economic vote—as a measure of voting to achieve performance accountability. In our analysis of over 1,100 elections in 114 developing countries between 1975 and 2010, we find distinct evidence that increasing receipt of democracy aid is associated with more economic voting. Results are robust to numerous alternative empirical specifications.
State capitalism in construction: Staffing practices and labour relations of Chinese construction firms in Africa
Authors: Cooke Fang Lee , Wang Dan , Wang Jue
Published: August 2017

A distinct feature of China’s involvement in the economic development of African countries in recent years has been the Chinese government’s financing and participation in infrastructure construction projects through its state-owned firms. However, there remains limited academic research on labour relations’ issues concerning Chinese firms in Africa. This article fills part of the research gap by examining key aspects of labour relations of Chinese construction firms operating in Africa. The article mobilises the notion of space in analysing the role of the state and its agencies in shaping the transnational labour market of construction workers and workplace industrial relations. Drawing on data from 52 interviews with managers, professionals and government officials, this study highlights the interdependence and interconnectedness of the Chinese lead construction firms, subcontractor firms and employment agencies on the one hand, and legislative and representational gaps for the Chinese dispatched workers on the other.
Hypertension Prevalence, Health Service Utilization, and Participant Satisfaction: Findings From a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial in Aged Chinese Canadians
Authors: Zou Ping , Dennis Cindy-Lee , Lee Ruth , Parry Monica
Published: August 2017

Responding to high prevalence of hypertension and patients’ preference of integrating traditional Chinese medicine for blood pressure control, the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension With Sodium Reduction for Chinese Canadian (DASHNa-CC) intervention was newly designed as a culturally sensitive dietary educational intervention to facilitate middle-aged and senior Chinese Canadians’ blood pressure control in community. The aim of this study was to report the hypertension prevalence rate according to the data from blood pressure screening events, to describe the characteristics of health service utilization among aged Chinese Canadians, and to report the evaluation of participant satisfaction to the DASHNa-CC intervention. This study was designed as a pilot randomized controlled trial with a sample size of 60. Among 618 Chinese Canadians participated in blood pressure screening events, 54.5% (n = 337) having various levels of hypertension. Across 2 months, 38 (63.3%) participants made a total of 47 visits to see their family physicians; 20 (33.3%) participants consulted their family members 224 times for lifestyle modifications and hypertension self-management. Various forms of Chinese media were frequently used as sources of health care information, and English media were rarely accessed. Participants highly satisfied with the contents, delivery approaches, and integration of traditional Chinese medicine in the intervention. Results indicated that middle-aged and senior Chinese Canadians have high hypertension prevalence and specific characteristics of health service utilization. It is important to implement interventions, which are culturally tailored, language appropriate, using proper technology and incorporating traditional Chinese medicine, in Chinese Canadian community for hypertension control.
Introductory Psychology
Authors: Peterson Jamie J. , Sesma Arturo
Published: August 2017

The American Psychological Association Board of Educational Affairs Working Group (APA) recommends providing some research experience to undergraduate students in the introductory psychology course. This nationwide survey of introductory psychology instructors explored the frequency of integrated research opportunities in introductory courses, types of research activities included in courses, instructors’ perceptions of the importance of providing research experience, and perceived barriers to integrating research. We found that although few of the introductory courses have a separate laboratory (5%), over 75% of the respondents indicated some manner of research activity in their courses. Most introductory courses included opportunities to read and critique original research, but few psychology programs at institutions of higher learning provided students with hands-on research, APA writing, or data presentation opportunities. Respondents also rated activities such as designing, conducting, and interpreting research as not especially important for introductory courses. Primary barriers to integrating research are logistical in nature.