bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of the Surgical Method in Development of Postoperative Cholangiocarcinoma in Todani Type IV Bile Duct Cysts
Authors: Xia Hong-tian , Yang Tao , Liang Bin , Zeng Jian-ping , Dong Jia-hong
Published: July 2015

Background. Our purpose was to investigate the association between the surgical approach for Todani type IV cysts and subsequent malignancy rate.Methods. The records of patients who received cyst excision from 1994 to 2013 were analyzed retrospectively for the following data: demographics, presenting symptoms, postoperative outcomes, malignant transformation, and follow-up reexaminations, including imaging, laboratory, and tumor marker tests.Results. Seven of the 196 patients initially treated at our hospital developed postoperative biliary malignancy, and the surgical approaches were extrahepatic bile duct cyst resection combined with hilar cholangioplasty and Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy (n=5), and intra- and extrahepatic bile duct cyst resection and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (n=2). The overall malignancy rate was 3.6% (7/196). Forty-eight patients initially treated at other hospitals developed malignancy postoperatively: 15 (31.2%) remained untreated and 33 (68.8%) had undergone incomplete resection procedures. Because Todani type IV cysts were seen in 268 patients, the postoperative malignancy rate of this group of patients was 12.3% (33/268).Conclusions. Radical resection of both intra- and extrahepatic cysts combined with hepatic resection and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is associated with a reduced risk of subsequent cancer development. Procedures in which radical cyst excision is not performed are associated with a greater risk of subsequent malignancy.
An Analysis of Transient Overvoltages during the Energization of Electric Ship Propulsion Systems
Authors: Brenna Morris , Foiadelli Federica , Zaninelli Dario
Published: July 2015

This paper addresses the resonance phenomena that can occur in an isolated distribution system during transient events such as repeated energizations or power converter switching. In particular, the aim of this study is to analyze the energization of an onboard radial distribution system installed on an electric ship and to determine how the various leakage parameters that can cause resonance problems such as high peak overvoltages when the circuit breaker is closed are relevant. The paper presents a detailed model of whole distribution system, which is validated using infield measurements that refer to a real case in which these events damaged the ships transformers, causing it to be removed from duty.
Seroepidemiology ofLeptospiraExposure in General Population in Rural Durango, Mexico
Authors: Alvarado-Esquivel Cosme , Sánchez-Anguiano Luis Francisco , Hernández-Tinoco Jesús
Published: July 2015

The magnitude ofLeptospiraexposure in rural Mexico is largely unknown. We sought to determine the seroprevalence ofLeptospiraIgG antibodies in adults in rural Durango, Mexico, and to determine the sociodemographic, behavioral, and housing characteristics of the subjects associated withLeptospiraseropositivity. We performed a cross-sectional study in 282 adults living in rural Durango, Mexico. Sera from participants were analyzed forLeptospiraIgG antibodies using a commercially available enzyme immunoassay. Seroprevalence association with the characteristics of the subjects was analyzed by bivariate and multivariate analyses. Of the 282 rural subjects (42.91 ± 17.53 years old) studied, 44 (15.6%) had anti-LeptospiraIgG antibodies. Seropositivity toLeptospirawas not associated with gender, educational level, employment, socioeconomic status, contact with animals or soil, or type of floors at home. In contrast, multivariate analysis showed thatLeptospiraexposure was associated with national trips (OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.05–4.16;P=0.03) and poor education of the head of the family (OR = 2.96; 95% CI: 1.51–5.78;P=0.001). We demonstrated serological evidence ofLeptospiraexposure in adults in rural northern Mexico. The contributing factors associated withLeptospiraexposure found in the present study may be useful for optimal planning of preventive measures againstLeptospirainfection.
The Technical and Economic Study of Solar-Wind Hybrid Energy System in Coastal Area of Chittagong, Bangladesh
Authors: Podder Shuvankar , Khan Raihan Sayeed , Alam Mohon Shah Md Ashraful
Published: July 2015

The size optimization and economic evaluation of the solar-wind hybrid renewable energy system (RES) to meet the electricity demand of 276 kWh/day with 40 kW peak load have been determined in this study. The load data has been collected from the motels situated in the coastal areas of Patenga, Chittagong. RES in standalone as well as grid connected mode have been considered. The optimal system configurations have been determined based on systems net present cost (NPC) and cost of per unit energy (COE). A standalone solar-wind-battery hybrid system is feasible and economically comparable to the present cost of diesel based power plant if 8% annual capacity shortage is allowed. Grid tied solar-wind hybrid system, where more than 70% electricity contribution is from RES, is economically comparable to present grid electricity price. Moreover, grid tied RES results in more than 60% reduction in greenhouse gases emission compared to the conventional grid. Sensitivity analysis has been performed in this study to determine the effect of capital cost variation or renewable resources variation on the system economy. Simulation result of sensitivity analysis has showed that 20% reduction of installation cost results in nearly 9%–12% reductions in cost of per unit energy.
Impact of Coal Mining on Self-Rated Health among Appalachian Residents
Authors: Woolley Shannon M. , Youk Ada O. , Bear Todd M. , Balmert Lauren C. , Talbott Evelyn O. , Buchanich Jeanine M.
Published: July 2015

Objective. To determine the impact of coal mining, measured as the number of coal mining-related facilities nearby one’s residence or employment in an occupation directly related to coal mining, on self-rated health in Appalachia.Methods. Unadjusted and adjusted ordinal logistic regression models calculated odds ratio estimates and associated 95% confidence intervals for the probability of having an excellent self-rated health response versus another response. Covariates considered in the analyses included number of coal mining-related facilities nearby one’s residence and employment in an occupation directly related to coal mining, as well as potential confounders age, sex, BMI, smoking status, income, and education.Results. The number of coal mining facilities near the respondent’s residence was not a statistically significant predictor of self-rated health. Employment in a coal-related occupation was a statistically significant predictor of self-rated health univariably; however, after adjusting for potential confounders, it was no longer a significant predictor.Conclusions. Self-rated health does not seem to be associated with residential proximity to coal mining facilities or employment in the coal industry. Future research should consider additional measures for the impact of coal mining.
Mature Nasopharyngeal Teratoma in a Child
Authors: Parajuli Ramesh , Thapa Suman , Maharjan Sushna
Published: July 2015

Teratomas are neoplasms derived from the germ cell with components of all the three embryonic layers. These are rare neoplasms in head and neck region which can occur in any age group but are more prevalent in children. The present case is an 11-year-old girl who was brought with history of painless and progressive swelling in the oropharynx for 3 years with the associated left sided nasal blockage and nasal discharge. CT scan was suggestive of benign nasopharyngeal mass highly suspicious for lipoma. Excision of the mass was done under general anaesthesia. Peroperatively, it was a smooth, pedunculated mass arising from the left lateral wall in the nasopharynx. On cut section, it was solid to cystic mass similar to fatty tissue. Her HPE report came out to be mature teratoma of nasopharynx.
Oleanolic Acid Induces Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells to Neurons: An Involvement of Transcription Factor Nkx-2.5
Authors: Ning You , Huang Jianhua , Kalionis Bill , Bian Qin , Dong Jingcheng , Wu Junzhen , Tai Xiantao , Xia Shijin , Shen Ziyin
Published: July 2015

Neural stem cells (NSCs) harbor the potential to differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes under normal conditions and/or in response to tissue damage. NSCs open a new way of treatment of the injured central nervous system and neurodegenerative disorders. Thus far, few drugs have been developed for controlling NSC functions. Here, the effect as well as mechanism of oleanolic acid (OA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid, on NSC function was investigated. We found OA significantly inhibited neurosphere formation in a dose-dependent manner and achieved a maximum effect at 10 nM. OA also reduced 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation into NSCs, which was indicative of inhibited NSC proliferation. Western blotting analysis revealed the protein levels of neuron-specific marker tubulin-βIII (TuJ1) and Mash1 were increased whilst the astrocyte-specific marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) decreased. Immunofluorescence analysis showed OA significantly elevated the percentage of TuJ1-positive cells and reduced GFAP-positive cells. Using DNA microarray analysis, 183 genes were differentially regulated by OA. Through transcription factor binding site analyses of the upstream regulatory sequences of these genes, 87 genes were predicted to share a common motif for Nkx-2.5 binding. Finally, small interfering RNA (siRNA) methodology was used to silence Nkx-2.5 expression and found silence of Nkx-2.5 alone did not change the expression of TuJ-1 and the percentage of TuJ-1-positive cells. But in combination of OA treatment and silence of Nkx-2.5, most effects of OA on NSCs were abolished. These results indicated that OA is an effective inducer for NSCs differentiation into neurons at least partially by Nkx-2.5-dependent mechanism.
Comparative Study of Time-Frequency Decomposition Techniques for Fault Detection in Induction Motors Using Vibration Analysis during Startup Transient
Authors: Delgado-Arredondo Paulo Antonio , Garcia-Perez Arturo , Morinigo-Sotelo Daniel , Osornio-Rios Roque Alfredo , Avina-Cervantes Juan Gabriel , Rostro-Gonzalez Horacio , Romero-Troncoso Rene de Jesus
Published: July 2015

Induction motors are critical components for most industries and the condition monitoring has become necessary to detect faults. There are several techniques for fault diagnosis of induction motors and analyzing the startup transient vibration signals is not as widely used as other techniques like motor current signature analysis. Vibration analysis gives a fault diagnosis focused on the location of spectral components associated with faults. Therefore, this paper presents a comparative study of different time-frequency analysis methodologies that can be used for detecting faults in induction motors analyzing vibration signals during the startup transient. The studied methodologies are the time-frequency distribution of Gabor (TFDG), the time-frequency Morlet scalogram (TFMS), multiple signal classification (MUSIC), and fast Fourier transform (FFT). The analyzed vibration signals are one broken rotor bar, two broken bars, unbalance, and bearing defects. The obtained results have shown the feasibility of detecting faults in induction motors using the time-frequency spectral analysis applied to vibration signals, and the proposed methodology is applicable when it does not have current signals and only has vibration signals. Also, the methodology has applications in motors that are not fed directly to the supply line, in such cases the analysis of current signals is not recommended due to poor current signal quality.
Superdominant Right Coronary Artery with Absence of Left Circumflex and Anomalous Origin of the Left Anterior Descending Coronary from the Right Sinus: An Unheard Coronary Anomaly Circulation
Authors: Oliveira Marcos Danillo Peixoto , de Fazzio Fernando Roberto , Mariani Junior José , Campos Carlos M. , Kajita Luiz Junya , Ribeiro Expedito E. , Lemos Pedro Alves
Published: July 2015

Coronary artery anomalies are congenital changes in their origin, course, and/or structure. Most of them are discovered as incidental findings during coronary angiographic studies or at autopsies. We present herein the case of a 70-year-old man with symptomatic severe aortic valvar stenosis whose preoperative coronary angiogram revealed a so far unreported coronary anomaly circulation pattern.
Extraction and Characterization of Fibres from the Stalk and Spikelets of Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Reneta Nafu Yakum , Foba-Tendo Josepha , Njeugna Ebenezer , Oliver Gossett , Omar Cooke Kavian
Published: July 2015

Fibres from different parts of empty fruit bunch, which is a major solid waste from oil palm processing, were subjected to different pretreatments and characterised for variability in length and diameter, mechanical performance, and proximate and trace element composition. Morphology and surface composition of the fibres were determined using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray. The fibres were further treated with KOH-boric acid and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Fibre yield was higher for spikelet than stalk. Fibres from stalk were generally larger in diameter and showed significant differences in potassium and galacturonic acid content, strength, and rigidity. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the widespread occurrence of silica bodies as well as significant differences in the microstructure of stalk and spikelet fibres. Stalk fibres showed a greater level of porosity than spikelet fibres in the section perpendicular to the major axis. The morphology of KOH-boric acid treated fibres suggested higher recalcitrance of spikelet fibres. The significant differences between fibres from stalk and spikelet suggest that EFB, used as feedstock for biobased industries, requires more systematic characterization and separation into stalk and spikelet, which may lead to a more judicious exploitation of this valuable waste.
Developing a Noninvasive Procedure Using Labeled Monoclonal Antibody Anti-VEGF (Bevacizumab) for Detection of Endometriosis
Authors: Machado Daniel Escorsim , Perini Jamila Alessandra , Orlando Margarida Maria Camoes , Santos-Oliveira Ralph
Published: July 2015

The off-label use of bevacizumab labeled with 99mTc as a new radiopharmaceutical for imaging of endometriosis is a promising noninvasive, new clinical procedure. The bevacizumab in monoclonal antibodies targeted at vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is superexpressed in cases of endometriosis. In this study we evaluate the imaging of endometriosis lesion in rats (induced to endometriosis) using bevacizumab-99mTc. The results showed that bevacizumab-99mTc imaged the lesion and support his use for Nuclear Medicine applied to gynecology. Also the results appointed that this radiopharmaceutical has a hepatobiliary excretion. It is important to notice that the dose used was almost 0,01% of the usual dose for the bevacizumab.
Oral Manifestations of Crohn’s Disease: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Woo Victoria L.
Published: July 2015

Crohn’s disease (CD) is an inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that is likely caused by an inappropriate mucosal inflammatory response to intestinal bacteria in a genetically predisposed host. The lesions of CD can involve any region of the GI tract as well as extraintestinal sites such as the skin, joints, and eyes. The most common presenting symptoms are abdominal pain and prolonged diarrhea associated with fevers, fatigue, and malaise. Delayed growth and failure to thrive may also be observed in pediatric patients. Oral manifestations of CD are known as oral CD and may precede GI involvement, thus serving as early markers of this condition. We describe a 6-year-old male who presented with oral lesions as his initial manifestation of disease and review the current literature pertaining to oral CD.
Integrative Analysis with Monte Carlo Cross-Validation Reveals miRNAs Regulating Pathways Cross-Talk in Aggressive Breast Cancer
Authors: Colaprico Antonio , Cava Claudia , Bertoli Gloria , Bontempi Gianluca , Castiglioni Isabella
Published: July 2015

In this work an integrated approach was used to identify functional miRNAs regulating gene pathway cross-talk in breast cancer (BC). We first integrated gene expression profiles and biological pathway information to explore the underlying associations between genes differently expressed among normal and BC samples and pathways enriched from these genes. For each pair of pathways, a score was derived from the distribution of gene expression levels by quantifying their pathway cross-talk. Random forest classification allowed the identification of pairs of pathways with high cross-talk. We assessed miRNAs regulating the identified gene pathways by a mutual information analysis. A Fisher test was applied to demonstrate their significance in the regulated pathways. Our results suggest interesting networks of pathways that could be key regulatory of target genes in BC, including stem cell pluripotency, coagulation, and hypoxia pathways and miRNAs that control these networks could be potential biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic development in BC. This work shows that standard methods of predicting normal and tumor classes such as differentially expressed miRNAs or transcription factors could lose intrinsic features; instead our approach revealed the responsible molecules of the disease.
Artery to Cystic Duct: A Consistent Branch of Cystic Artery Seen in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Rashid Arshad , Mushtaque Majid , Bali Rajandeep Singh , Nazir Saima , Khuroo Suhail , Ishaq Sheikh
Published: July 2015

Uncontrolled arterial bleeding during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a serious problem and may increase the risk of bile duct damage. Therefore, accurate identification of the anatomy of the cystic artery is very important. Cystic artery is notoriously known to have a highly variable branching pattern. We reviewed the anatomy of the cystic artery and its branch to cystic duct as seen through the video laparoscope. A single artery to cystic duct with the classical “H-configuration” was demonstrated in 161 (91.47%) patients. This branch may cause troublesome bleeding during laparoscopic dissection in the hepatobiliary triangle. Careful identification of artery to cystic duct is helpful in the proper dissection of Calot’s triangle as it reduces the chances of hemorrhage and thus may also be helpful in prevention of extrahepatic biliary radical injuries.
Ebstein’s Anomaly, Left Ventricular Noncompaction, and Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: McGee Michael , Warner Luke , Collins Nicholas
Published: July 2015

Ebstein’s anomaly is a congenital disorder characterized by apical displacement of the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve. Ebstein’s anomaly may be seen in association with other cardiac conditions, including patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defect, and left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC). LVNC is characterized by increased trabeculation within the left ventricular apex. Echocardiography is often used to diagnose LVNC; however, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging offers superior characterization of the myocardium. We report a case of sudden cardiac death in a patient with Ebstein’s anomaly with unrecognized LVNC noted on post mortem examination with screening documenting the presence of LVNC in one of the patient’s twin sons.
A Novel Method of Interestingness Measures for Association Rules Mining Based on Profit
Authors: Ju Chunhua , Bao Fuguang , Xu Chonghuan , Fu Xiaokang
Published: July 2015

Association rules mining is an important topic in the domain of data mining and knowledge discovering. Some papers have presented several interestingness measure methods; the most typical areSupport,Confidence,Lift,Improve, and so forth. But their limitations are obvious, like no objective criterion, lack of statistical base, disability of defining negative relationship, and so forth. This paper proposes three new methods,Bi-lift, Bi-improve, andBi-confidence, forLift, Improve, and Confidence, respectively. Then, on the basis of utility function and the executing cost of rules, we propose interestingness function based on profit (IFBP) considering subjective preferences and characteristics of specific application object. Finally, a novel measure framework is proposed to improve the traditional one through experimental analysis. In conclusion, the new methods and measure framework are prior to the traditional ones in the aspects of objective criterion, comprehensive definition, and practical application.
Enhancing Image Characteristics of Retinal Images of Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity Using a Novel Software, (RetiView)
Authors: Jayadev Chaitra , Vinekar Anand , Mohanachandra Poornima , Desai Samit , Suveer Amit , Mangalesh Shwetha , Bauer Noel , Shetty Bhujang
Published: July 2015

Purpose. To report pilot data from a novel image analysis software “RetiView,” to highlight clinically relevant information in RetCam images of infants with aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP).Methods. Twenty-three imaging sessions of consecutive infants of Asian Indian origin with clinically diagnosed APROP underwent three protocols (Grey Enhanced (GE), Color Enhanced (CE), and “Vesselness Measure” (VNM)) of the software. The postprocessed images were compared to baseline data from the archived unprocessed images and clinical exam by the retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) specialist for anterior extent of the vessels, capillary nonperfusion zones (CNP), loops, hemorrhages, and flat neovascularization.Results. There was better visualization of tortuous loops in the GE protocol (56.5%); “bald” zones within the CNP zones (26.1%), hemorrhages (13%), and edge of the disease (34.8%) in the CE images; neovascularization on both GE and CE protocols (13% each); clinically relevant information in cases with poor pupillary dilatation (8.7%); anterior extent of vessels on the VNM protocol (13%) effecting a “reclassification” from zone 1 to zone 2 posterior.Conclusions. RetiView is a noninvasive and inexpensive method of customized image enhancement to detect clinically difficult characteristics in a subset of APROP images with a potential to influence treatment planning.
Barrier Thickness and Hydrostatic Pressure Effects on Hydrogenic Impurity States in Wurtzite GaN/AlxGa1−xN Strained Quantum Dots
Authors: Wang Guangxin , Duan Xiuzhi , Chen Wei
Published: July 2015

Within the framework of the effective mass approximation, barrier thickness and hydrostatic pressure effects on the ground‐state binding energy of hydrogenic impurity are investigated in wurtzite (WZ) GaN/AlxGa1−xN strained quantum dots (QDs) by means of a variational approach. The hydrostatic pressure dependence of physical parameters such as electron effective mass, energy band gaps, lattice constants, and dielectric constants is considered in the calculations. Numerical results show that the donor binding energy for any impurity position increases when the hydrostatic pressure increases. The donor binding energy for the impurity located at the central of the QD increases firstly and then begins to drop quickly with the decrease of QD radius (height) in strong built‐in electric fields. Moreover, the influence of barrier thickness along the QD growth direction and Al concentration on donor binding energy is also investigated. In addition, we also found that impurity positions have great influence on the donor binding energy.
Finding the Best Formula to Predict the Fetal Weight: Comparison of 18 Formulas
Authors: Esinler Deniz , Bircan Oya , Esin Sertac , Sahin Elif Gulsah , Kandemir Omer , Yalvac Serdar
Published: July 2015

Background: To compare the accuracy of 18 formulas in predicting fetal weight and also to make a comparison of these formulas in low-birth-weight fetuses (<2,500 g) and in fetuses weighing >4,000 g. Methods: Four-hundred-and-ninety-five pregnant patients were enrolled. The estimated fetal weight was calculated using 18 different formulas. The mean percentage error, the mean absolute percentage error and reliability analysis were used to compare the performance of the formulas. Results: The Cronbach's alpha was the highest in the formulas Hadlock I (0.977 (95% CI = 0.972-0.980)), Hadlock III (0.977 (95% CI = 0.972-0.980)) and Ott (0.975 (95% CI = 0.970-0.979)) in all fetuses. It was the highest in formulas Ott (0.383 (95% CI = 0.091-0.581)), Hadlock IV (0.371 (95% CI = 0.074-0.572)) and Combs (0.369 (95% CI = 0.071-0.571)) in fetuses >4,000 g. It was the highest in formulas Coombs (0.957 (95% CI = 0.940-0.569)), Ott (0.956 (95% CI = 0.939-0.968)) and Hadlock IV (95% CI = 0.956 (0.938-0.968)) in fetuses <2,500 g. Conclusion: We noted that formulas Hadlock I, Hadlock III and Ott may be used to predict the estimated fetal weight accurately in all fetuses in our study. Formulas Ott, Hadlock IV and Coombs may be preferred to predict EFW in fetuses <2,500 g and >4,000 g. Better formulas should be developed to predict the fetal weight in fetuses >4,000 g.
Surgical and Locoregional Therapy of HCC: TACE
Authors: Tsurusaki Masakatsu , Murakami Takamichi
Published: July 2015

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is performed worldwide for patients with intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TACE has produced survival advantages in two randomized controlled trials and a meta-analysis, and is currently the mainstay of treatment for this stage of HCC. However, there are currently no global guidelines regarding the dose, choice or combination of cytotoxic agents for TACE; therefore, it is difficult to compare data from different TACE studies. In Japan, most of the TACE procedures have been based on iodized oil as conventional TACE, utilizing the microembolic and drug-carrying characteristic of iodized oil. Superselective TACE with lipiodol is the primary TACE procedure that has reported satisfactory levels of local control associated with a lower risk of complications. Conversely, TACE performed using drug-eluting beads has been widely used in western countries, and this has shown similar tumor response and median survival compared to conventional TACE. Moreover, the combination of TACE and molecular targeted agents is now ongoing to evaluate the synergistic effect. In this review, the indication, technical issues, and complications of TACE are reviewed.
Vasopeptidase Inhibition Corrects the Structure and Function of the Small Arteries in Experimental Renal Insufficiency
Authors: Haltia Olli , Törmänen Suvi , Eräranta Arttu , Jokihaara Jarkko , Nordhausen Klaus , Rysä Jaana , Ruskoaho Heikki , Tikkanen Ilkka , Mustonen Jukka , Pörsti Ilkka
Published: July 2015

Background: We studied whether vasopeptidase inhibition corrects the structure and function of the small arteries in experimental chronic renal insufficiency (CRI). Methods: After 5/6 nephrectomy (NX) surgery was performed on rats, there was a 14-week follow-up, allowing CRI to become established. Omapatrilat (40 mg/kg/day in chow) was then given for 8 weeks, and the small mesenteric arterial rings were investigated in vitro using wire and pressure myographs. Results: Plasma and ventricular B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentrations were increased 2- to 2.7-fold, while systolic blood pressure (BP) increased by 32 mm Hg after NX. Omapatrilat treatment normalized the BNP and reduced the BP by 45 mm Hg in the NX rats. Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was impaired but the response to acetylcholine was normalized after omapatrilat treatment. Vasorelaxations induced by nitroprusside, isoprenaline and levcromakalim were enhanced after omapatrilat, and the responses were even more pronounced than in untreated sham-operated rats. Arterial wall thickness and wall-to-lumen ratio were increased after NX, whereas omapatrilat normalized these structural features and improved the strain-stress relationship in the small arteries; this suggests improved arterial elastic properties. Conclusion: Omapatrilat treatment reduced BP, normalized volume overload, improved vasorelaxation and corrected the dimensions and passive elastic properties of the small arteries in the NX rats. Therefore, we consider vasopeptidase inhibition to be an effective treatment for CRI-induced changes in the small arteries.
Arteriovenous Grafts: Early Ultrasonography Tells Their Fortune
Authors: Kudlicka Jaroslav , Malik Jan , Tuka Vladimir , Chytilova Eva , Krupickova Zdislava , Grauova Barbora , Vorcakova Jaroslava , Janak David , Kavan Jan , Kittnar Otomar , Slavikova Marcela
Published: July 2015

Background: The patency of arteriovenous grafts (AVG) for hemodialysis is mostly limited by growing stenoses that lead to decreasing of blood flow, thromboses and finally to access failure. The aim of this study was to find out if detection of any pathology by duplex Doppler ultrasonography (DDU) early after creation of AVG could identify those with lower survival. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled AVG examined by DDU in our center within 40 days after their creation during the last 10 years. The findings were divided into 4 subgroups: (1a) normal finding, (1b) DDU risk factor (low flow volume, medial calcinosis of the feeding artery, presence of intimal hyperplasia in the venous anastomosis), (2a) non-significant or (2b) significant stenosis. The primary outcome measure was the cumulative survival of people with AVGs, and the secondary was the primary (unassisted) survival. All patients underwent DDU surveillance every 3 months with pre-emptive treatment of significant stenoses. Results: Overall, 340 cases were found; the median follow-up was 565 days. Normal DDU finding had 60% cases, DDU risk factor 18% cases, non-significant stenosis 13% cases and significant stenosis 9% cases. Occurrence of early significant stenosis was associated with high risk of access loss (hazards ratio (HR) 14.73; 95% CI 5.10-42.58; p < 0.0001). Similarly, the presence of a DDU risk factor and of a non-significant stenosis were related to significantly shorter access lifespan (HR 2.86; 95% CI 1.10-7.40; p = 0.03 and HR 2.83; 95% CI 1.12-7.17; p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusion: DDU examination of AVG early after their creation can identify those at higher risk and may contribute to individualize the surveillance strategy.
Nail Sarcoidosis with and without Systemic Involvement: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Noriega Leandro , Criado Paulo , Gabbi Tatiana , Avancini João , Di Chiacchio Nilton
Published: July 2015

The most commonly seen nail change in sarcoidosis, often associated with chronic systemic disease, is onychodystrophy. Imaging of hands, feet and chest is of paramount importance when nail sarcoidosis is suspected, for evaluation of bone cysts and pulmonary involvement, respectively. We report 2 cases of sarcoidosis that developed nail involvement - one with pulmonary disease, and the other without any evidence of systemic involvement, which is very rare.
Molecular Imaging of Platelet–Endothelial Interactions and Endothelial von Willebrand Factor in Early and Mid-Stage Atherosclerosis
Authors: Shim Chi Young , Liu Ya Ni , Atkinson Tamara , Xie Aris , Foster Ted , Davidson Brian P. , Treible Mackenzie , Qi Yue , López José A. , Munday Adam , Ruggeri Zaverio , Lindner Jonathan R.
Published: July 2015

Background—

Nonthrombotic platelet–endothelial interactions may contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development, although in vivo studies examining mechanism without platelet preactivation are lacking. Using in vivo molecular imaging at various stages of atherosclerosis, we quantified platelet–endothelial interactions and evaluated the contribution of major adhesion pathways.

Methods and Results—

Mice deficient for the low-density lipoprotein receptor and Apobec-1 were studied as an age-dependent model of atherosclerosis at 10, 20, 30, and 40 weeks of age, which provided progressive increase in stage from early fatty streak (10 weeks) to large complex plaques without rupture (40 weeks). Platelet-targeted contrast ultrasound molecular imaging of the thoracic aorta performed with microbubbles targeted to GPIbα demonstrated selective signal enhancement as early as 10 weeks of age. This signal increased progressively with age (almost 8-fold increase from 10 to 40 weeks, analysis of variance
P
<0.001). Specificity for platelet targeting was confirmed by the reduction in platelet-targeted signal commensurate with the decrease in platelet count after immunodepletion with anti-GPIb or anti-CD41 antibody. Inhibition of P-selectin in 20 and 40 weeks atherosclerotic mice resulted in a small (15% to 30%) reduction in platelet signal. Molecular imaging with microbubbles targeted to the A1 domain of von Willebrand factor demonstrated selective signal enhancement at all time points, which did not significantly increase with age. Treatment of 20 and 40 week mice with recombinant ADAMTS13 eliminated platelet and von Willebrand factor molecular imaging signal.

Conclusions—

Platelet–endothelial interactions occur in early atherosclerosis. These interactions are in part caused by endothelial von Willebrand factor large multimers, which can be reversed with exogenous ADAMTS13.
Noninvasive Imaging of Atherosclerotic Plaque Progression
Authors: Sandfort Veit , Lima Joao A.C. , Bluemke David A.
Published: July 2015

The process of coronary artery disease progression is infrequently visualized. Intravascular ultrasound has been used to gain important insights but is invasive and therefore limited to high-risk patients. For low-to-moderate risk patients, noninvasive methods may be useful to quantitatively monitor plaque progression or regression and to understand and personalize atherosclerosis therapy. This review discusses the potential for coronary computed tomography angiography to evaluate the extent and subtypes of coronary plaque. Computed tomographic technology is evolving and image quality of the method approaches the level required for plaque progression monitoring. Methods to quantify plaque on computed tomography angiography are reviewed as well as a discussion of their use in clinical trials. Limitations of coronary computed tomography angiography compared with competing modalities include limited evaluation of plaque subcomponents and incomplete knowledge of the value of the method especially in patients with low-to-moderate cardiovascular risk.
Effect of Pulmonary Hypertension Hemodynamic Presentation on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Severe Symptomatic Aortic Valve Stenosis Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: O’Sullivan Crochan J. , Wenaweser Peter , Ceylan Osman , Rat-Wirtzler Julie , Stortecky Stefan , Heg Dik , Spitzer Ernest , Zanchin Thomas , Praz Fabien , Tüller David , Huber Christoph , Pilgrim Thomas , Nietlispach Fabian , Khattab Ahmed A. , Carrel Thierry , Meier Bernhard , Windecker Stephan , Buellesfeld Lutz
Published: July 2015

Background—

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) frequently coexists with severe aortic stenosis, and PH severity has been shown to predict outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The effect of PH hemodynamic presentation on clinical outcomes after TAVI is unknown.

Methods and Results—

Of 606 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI, 433 (71.4%) patients with severe aortic stenosis and a preprocedural right heart catheterization were assessed. Patients were dichotomized according to whether PH was present (mean pulmonary artery pressure, ≥25 mm Hg; n=325) or not (n=108). Patients with PH were further dichotomized by left ventricular end-diastolic pressure into postcapillary (left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, >15 mm Hg; n=269) and precapillary groups (left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, ≤15 mm Hg; n=56). Finally, patients with postcapillary PH were divided into isolated (n=220) and combined (n=49) subgroups according to whether the diastolic pressure difference (diastolic pulmonary artery pressure−left ventricular end-diastolic pressure) was normal (<7 mm Hg) or elevated (≥7 mm Hg). Primary end point was mortality at 1 year. PH was present in 325 of 433 (75%) patients and was predominantly postcapillary (n=269/325; 82%). Compared with baseline, systolic pulmonary artery pressure immediately improved after TAVI in patients with postcapillary combined (57.8±14.1 versus 50.4±17.3 mm Hg;
P
=0.015) but not in those with precapillary (49.0±12.6 versus 51.6±14.3;
P
=0.36). When compared with no PH, a higher 1-year mortality rate was observed in both precapillary (hazard ratio, 2.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–5.22;
P
=0.046) and combined (hazard ratio, 3.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.43–6.93;
P
=0.004) but not isolated PH patients (
P
=0.11). After adjustment, combined PH remained a strong predictor of 1-year mortality after TAVI (hazard ratio, 3.28;
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

Invasive stratification of PH according to hemodynamic presentation predicts acute response to treatment and 1-year mortality after TAVI.
Clinical Impact of Intravascular Ultrasound–Guided Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention With Zotarolimus-Eluting Versus Biolimus-Eluting Stent Implantation
Authors: Kim Byeong-Keuk , Shin Dong-Ho , Hong Myeong-Ki , Park Hun Sik , Rha Seung-Woon , Mintz Gary S. , Kim Jung-Sun , Kim Je Sang , Lee Seung-Jin , Kim Hee-Yeol , Hong Bum-Kee , Kang Woong-Chol , Choi Jin-Ho , Jang Yangsoo
Published: July 2015

Background—

There have been no randomized studies comparing intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)–guided versus conventional angiography–guided chronic total occlusion (CTO) intervention using new-generation drug-eluting stent Therefore, we conducted a prospective, randomized, multicenter trial designed to test the hypothesis that IVUS-guided CTO intervention is superior to angiography-guided intervention.

Methods and Results—

After successful guidewire crossing, 402 patients with CTOs were randomized to the IVUS-guided group (n=201) or the angiography-guided group (n=201) and secondarily randomized to Resolute zotarolimus-eluting stents or Nobori biolimus-eluting stents. The primary and secondary end points were cardiac death and a major adverse cardiac event defined as the composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or target-vessel revascularization, respectively. After 12-month follow-up, the rate of cardiac death was not significantly different between the IVUS-guided group (0%) and the angiography-guided group (1.0%;
P
by log-rank test=0.16). However, major adverse cardiac event rates were significantly lower in the IVUS-guided group than that in the angiography-guided group (2.6% versus 7.1%;
P
=0.035; hazard ratio, 0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.13–0.97). Occurrence of the composite of cardiac death or myocardial infarction was significantly lower in the IVUS-guided group (0%) than in the angiography-guided group (2.0%;
P
=0.045). The rates of target-vessel revascularization were not significantly different between the 2 groups. In the comparison between Resolute zotarolimus-eluting stent and Nobori biolimus-eluting stent, major adverse cardiac event rates were not significantly different (4.0% versus 5.7%;
P
=0.45).

Conclusions—

Although IVUS-guided CTO intervention did not significantly reduce cardiac mortality, this randomized study demonstrated that IVUS-guided CTO intervention might improve 12-month major adverse cardiac event rate after new-generation drug-eluting stent implantation when compared with conventional angiography-guided CTO intervention.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01563952.
Syntactic Neutralization in Double Object Constructions
Authors: Hallman Peter
Published: July 2015

This article synthesizes the ‘‘alternative projection’’ view of the alternation between the DP + DP and DP + PP complement frames of English double object verbs, according to which the alternants are basegenerated as such, with a transformational account that claims that the DP + PP frame may be derived from the DP + DP frame. For some verbs allowing multiple complements, the DP + PP frame is syntactically ambiguous between a base-generated locative construction and a derivative of the possessive syntax associated with the DP + DP frame. Evidence from the distribution of purpose clauses motivates this conclusion, as do asymmetries in restrictions on animacy and idiom formation in the two frames.
Ergativity and Transitivity
Authors: Woolford Ellen
Published: July 2015

Ergative case is said to mark transitive subjects, and it is widely assumed that this is true under the ordinary definition of transitive; however, Bittner and Hale (1996) propose that ergative languages fall into two types, neither of which is based on the ordinary notion of transitivity. In one, a direct object is not necessary for ergative case: any verb with an external argument counts as transitive, following Hale and Keyser 1993 (e.g., Warlpiri). In the other, a direct object is necessary, but not sufficient: the subject gets ergative case only if the object moves out of the VP (e.g., Inuit). This article argues that Niuean, Dyirbal, and Nez Perce are also of this object shift type. A search yielded no language where ergative case is clearly governed only by ordinary transitivity; languages that do fit the stereotype have only ergative agreement. A formal account of the correlation between object shift and ergative case is proposed, under which ergative case can be used as a ‘‘last resort,’’ as one of three ways to avoid the locality violation that object shift creates.
Female mate choice, differential allocation and parent–offspring covariation in canaries
Authors: Estramil Natalia , Eens Marcel , Müller Wendt
Published: July 2015

Parental care typically involves elaborate reciprocal within-family interactions, and traits such as parental provisioning and offspring begging should therefore coevolve. There is indeed mounting evidence for a phenotypic covariation, also in the canary (Serinus canaria), our model species. Such covariation may arise due to maternal effects, rendering this relationship particularly sensitive to environmental conditions. Here, we manipulated the social environment by pairing females with either their chosen or non-chosen male. Subsequently, all clutches were cross-fostered to separate pre- and postnatal effects. We found a positive covariation between offspring begging and parental provisioning, which was, however, unaffected by mate preferences, and we found no evidence for differential allocation. In addition, there was no effect of assortative mating, which is thought to reinforce parent–offspring covariation. The fact that parent–offspring covariation is consistently observed in canaries suggests that it is biologically relevant, but it requires further studies to elucidate its sensitivity to environmental variation.
Helpers influence on territory use and maintenance in Alpine marmot groups
Authors: Pasquaretta Cristian , Busia Laura , Ferrari Caterina , Bogliani Giuseppe , Reale Denis , von Hardenberg Achaz
Published: July 2015

In social mammals, territory size and shape vary according to the number and strength of neighbour individuals competing for resources. Two main theories have been proposed to explain this variability: the Group Augmentation (GA) and the realized Resource Holding Potential (rRHP) hypotheses. The first states that the outcome of the interactions among groups depends on the total number of individuals in the group while the second states that only the number of animals directly involved in intergroup competition determines this outcome. We collected data on space use of individually tagged Alpine marmots (Marmota marmota), a cooperative breeding species that overlaps part of its territory with neighbouring groups. In accordance with the rRHP hypothesis, we found that groups having higher proportion of helpers, rather than higher total number of individuals, had lower percentage of the territory overlapping with neighbouring groups and a larger area available for individual exclusive use.
Parent-absent calls are related to nestling reaction time and parental food allocation in the spotless starling
Authors: Jimeno Blanca , Gil Diego
Published: July 2015

Absent repeat calls (ARC) are produced by nestlings of some bird species when parents are not at the nest, and play a role in sibling interactions and parental investment. We explored if individual traits influencing begging also determine ARC in the spotless starling (Sturnus unicolor), and whether this behaviour explains nestling feeding success. We video-taped natural broods and examined the effects of experimental feeding in this behaviour. Experimentally fed chicks stopped calling and received fewer feedings. Among un-fed chicks, absence calls were more frequent in smaller nestlings. We found a positive relationship between nestling reaction time to parental arrival and food acquisition: chicks that reacted first received more feedings that slower chicks. ARC performance was also positively related to reaction time: chicks that produced more calls also reacted first to parents. These results suggest that ARC may have important effects on resource allocation and family interaction networks.
Developing Global Public Participation (1)
Authors: Spijkers Otto , Honniball Arron
Published: July 2015

In this first article, we will analyse the actuality and potential of participation at the international level, or more specifically: at the level of the United Nations (un). Is there a demand for public participation in the work of the United Nations, and if so, who has such demands? And how should the un meet these demands? A subsequent article will apply the theory presented in this article to a case study. In this second article, global public participation in the drafting process, at the un, of the Sustainable Development Goals will be examined and assessed against the findings uncovered here.
Logique de Validité Redoux?
Authors: Pergantis Vassilis
Published: July 2015

In a contribution to the Mélanges Virally in 1991, Jean Combacau deplored the choice made in Article 19(c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which consecrates an “objective” test of compatibility with the object and purpose that can only be fulfilled subjectively. This logique de validité, as Combacau calls it, is tested in the International Law Commission’s (ilc) guidelines on reservations to treaties. The conclusion is not encouraging: the ilc fails to deliver the promise of the logique de validité and creates an inconsistent and at times untenable regime. By announcing that it will flesh out the consequences of Article 19(c), the Commission places itself in an impossible position. Its only way-out is the concept of reservations dialogue that highlights the informal and political nature of reservations and proves that the promise of the logique de validité cannot but remain always immanent.
The Contested History of International Investment Law
Authors: Fahner Jeanrique
Published: July 2015

In her new book ‘The Origins of International Investment Law’, Kate Miles reinforces calls for the reform of international investment law with a reconstruction of the field’s historical development, arguing that the regime’s exclusive emphasis on the protection of investment at the expense of other societal and environmental interests is a consequence of its historical roots in colonialism and imperialism. This review essay summarizes the core of Miles’ argument, while also highlighting some alternative narratives of the history of international investment law, which emphasize the perceived mutual interest of both capital-exporting and capital-importing states in creating the current regime. The essay concludes by demonstrating that Miles’ reform proposals rely on a particular perspective on the desirable purpose and scope of international investment law.