bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial cell senescence with aging in healthy humans: prevention by habitual exercise and relation to vascular endothelial function
Authors: Rossman Matthew J. , Kaplon Rachelle E. , Hill Sierra D. , McNamara Molly N. , Santos-Parker Jessica R. , Pierce Gary L. , Seals Douglas R. , Donato Anthony J.
Published: October 2017

Cellular senescence is emerging as a key mechanism of age-related vascular endothelial dysfunction, but evidence in healthy humans is lacking. Moreover, the influence of lifestyle factors such as habitual exercise on endothelial cell (EC) senescence is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that EC senescence increases with sedentary, but not physically active, aging and is associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction. Protein expression (quantitative immunofluorescence) of p53, a transcription factor related to increased cellular senescence, and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p16 were 116%, 119%, and 128% greater (all P < 0.05), respectively, in ECs obtained from antecubital veins of older sedentary (60 ± 1 yr, n = 12) versus young sedentary (22 ± 1 yr, n = 9) adults. These age-related differences were not present (all P > 0.05) in venous ECs from older exercising adults (57 ± 1 yr, n = 13). Furthermore, venous EC protein levels of p53 ( r = −0.49, P = 0.003), p21 ( r = −0.38, P = 0.03), and p16 ( r = −0.58, P = 0.002) were inversely associated with vascular endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated dilation). Similarly, protein expression of p53 and p21 was 26% and 23% higher (both P < 0.05), respectively, in ECs sampled from brachial arteries of healthy older sedentary (63 ± 1 yr, n = 18) versus young sedentary (25 ± 1 yr, n = 9) adults; age-related changes in arterial EC p53 and p21 expression were not observed ( P > 0.05) in older habitually exercising adults (59 ± 1 yr, n = 14). These data indicate that EC senescence is associated with sedentary aging and is linked to endothelial dysfunction. Moreover, these data suggest that prevention of EC senescence may be one mechanism by which aerobic exercise protects against endothelial dysfunction with age.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study provides novel evidence in humans of increased endothelial cell senescence with sedentary aging, which is associated with impaired vascular endothelial function. Furthermore, our data suggest an absence of age-related increases in endothelial cell senescence in older exercising adults, which is linked with preserved vascular endothelial function.

Listen to this article's corresponding podcast at http://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/aging-exercise-and-endothelial-cell-senescence/ .
Sympathetic neural reactivity to mental stress differs in black and non-Hispanic white adults
Authors: Fonkoue Ida T. , Schwartz Christopher E. , Wang Min , Carter Jason R.
Published: October 2017

Black adults have a higher risk of hypertension compared with non-Hispanic white (NHW) adults, but physiological mechanisms underlying this predisposition remain unclear. This study compared muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) responses to mental stress in a group of young black and NHW participants. We hypothesized that the sympathoexcitation associated with mental stress would be greater in black adults compared with NHW participants. Thirty-five male adults (19 black, 23 ± 1 yr; 16 NHW, 22 ± 1 yr) were examined during 5-min supine baseline and 5 min of mental stress (via mental arithmetic). Baseline mean arterial pressure (80 ± 2 vs. 82 ± 1 mmHg), heart rate (61 ± 4 vs. 61 ± 2 beats/min), MSNA (13 ± 1 vs. 15 ± 2 bursts/min), and sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity (−1.1 ± 0.4 vs. −1.5 ± 0.3 bursts·100 heart beats−1·mmHg−1) were not significantly different between NHW and black adults ( P > 0.05), respectively. MSNA reactivity to mental stress was significantly higher in NHW compared with black adults (time × race, P = 0.006), with a particularly divergent responsiveness during the first minute of mental stress in NHW (Δ4 ± 1 burst/min) and black (Δ−2 ± 2 burst/min; P = 0.022) men. Blood pressure and heart rate reactivity to mental stress were similar between groups. In summary, black participants demonstrated a lower MSNA responsiveness to mental stress compared with NHW adults. These findings suggest that, despite a higher prevalence of hypertension, black subjects do not appear to have higher neural and cardiovascular responsiveness to mental stress compared with NHW.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Black men have a blunted muscle sympathetic nerve activity response to mental stress compared with non-Hispanic white (NHW) men, especially at the onset of mental stress when muscle sympathetic nerve activity decreased in blacks and increased in NHW men. Thus, despite a high prevalence of hypertension in blacks, normotensive NHW men display a greater peripheral sympathetic neural reactivity to mental stress than black men.
A Systematic Evaluation of Mobile Applications for Instant Messaging on iOS Devices
Authors: Caro-Alvaro Sergio , Garcia-Lopez Eva , Garcia-Cabot Antonio , de-Marcos Luis , Gutierrez-Martinez Jose-Maria
Published: October 2017

Nowadays, instant messaging applications (apps) are one of the most popular applications for mobile devices with millions of active users. However, mobile devices present hardware and software characteristics and limitations compared with personal computers. Hence, to address the usability issues of mobile apps, a specific methodology must be conducted. This paper shows the findings from a systematic analysis of these applications on iOS mobile platform that was conducted to identify some usability issues in mobile applications for instant messaging. The overall process includes a Keystroke-Level Modeling and a Mobile Heuristic Evaluation. In the same trend, we propose a set of guidelines for improving the usability of these apps. Based on our findings, this analysis will help in the future to create more effective mobile applications for instant messaging.
Inhibition of Corn Oil Peroxidation by Extracts from Defatted Seeds ofCamellia oleiferaAbel
Authors: Chen Haiming , Song Fei , Chen Weijun , Chen Wenxue
Published: October 2017

The defatted seed ofCamellia oleiferaAbel is an underexploited byproduct. In the present study, 3 solvents (isopropanol, hexane, and diethyl ether) were used to extract active compounds from defatted seeds ofCamellia oleiferaAbel. The qualitative and quantitative characterization of the main phenolic compounds were performed using the HPLC-DAD. In addition, the antioxidant efficacy of defatted seed extracts in the stabilization of the corn oil was estimated by monitoring its primary and secondary oxidation products. The results showed that isopropanolic extract (IE) exhibited the highest yield of total phenolic compounds (9.23±0.33 mg/g) compared with other solvents. The predominant phenolic compounds identified by HPLC-DAD in defatted seed extracts were epicatechin, naringenin, and catechin. In addition, IE exhibited the best inhibition effect on both primary and secondary oxidation products. The results reveal that IE of defatted seed ofCamellia oleiferaAbel is a useful antioxidant for the stabilization of corn oil.
Sex-Related Differences in Hematological Parameters and Organosomatic Indices ofOreochromis niloticusExposed to Aflatoxin B1Diet
Authors: Marijani Esther , Nasimolo Johnson , Kigadye Emmanuel , Gnonlonfin Gbemenou Joselin Benoit , Okoth Sheila
Published: October 2017

A 24-week feeding experiment was conducted to assess whether males and females ofOreochromis niloticusexhibit differences in their hematological responses and organosomatic indices to dietary AFB1contamination. Triplicate groups ofO. niloticus(initial body weight: 24.1 ± 0.6 g) were fed with four diets (Diets 1 to 4) containing 0, 20, 200, and 2,000 μg AFB1kg−1. A significant decrease (P<0.05) in hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC), and hematocrit (Hct) was observed in AFB1exposure groups, with the lowest levels recorded in the 2000 μg AFB1kg−1treatment. A significant increase in mean white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils, and lymphocytes was observed in AFB1exposure groups. No sex-related differences in RBC, WBC, lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils levels were observed. However, hemoglobin and hematocrit values for femaleO. niloticuswere significantly lower than those for maleO. niloticus. Organosomatic indices showed that the relative liver, kidney, and spleen weights were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the AFB1supplemented group than in the control group. However, the effect of aflatoxin on organosomatic indices does not depend on sex but rather depends on the dose of aflatoxin in the diet. These results provide useful information for monitoring changes in the health status of male and femaleO. niloticus.
Intraoperative Disinfection by Pulse Irrigation with Povidone-Iodine Solution in Spine Surgery
Authors: De Luna Vincenzo , Mancini Federico , De Maio Fernando , Bernardi Gabriele , Ippolito Ernesto , Caterini Roberto
Published: October 2017

Background. Deep wound infection in spine surgery is a debilitating complication for patients and increases costs. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of wound pulse irrigation with a dilute povidone-iodine solution in the prevention of surgical site infection.Methods. 50 patients undergoing spinal surgery were randomly divided into two groups (A and B) of 25 patients each. In group A, wounds were irrigated with dilute (3%) povidone-iodine solution through a low-pressure pulsatile device. In group B, wounds were irrigated with saline solution through a bulb syringe. In both groups, specimens for bacterial culture were harvested from surgical site before and after irrigation.Results. In group A, no surgical site infection occurred; in group B, deep wound infection was observed in 3 patients. In both groups, before irrigation some cultures have been found positive for bacterial contamination.Conclusion. Our study seems to support the idea that low-pressure pulsating lavage of surgical wounds with povidone-iodine diluted to a nontoxic concentration of 3% is an effective therapeutic adjunct measure to prevent surgical site infection in spine surgery. However, the number of the enrolled patients is small and a significant statistical analysis is not practicable. This trial is registered withNCT03249363.
Functional Metaplasticity of Hippocampal Schaffer Collateral-CA1 Synapses Is Reversed in Chronically Epileptic Rats
Authors: Rehberg Mirko , Kirschstein Timo , Guli Xiati , Müller Steffen , Rohde Marco , Franz Denise , Tokay Tursonjan , Köhling Rüdiger
Published: October 2017

Spatial learning and associating spatial information with individual experience are crucial for rodents and higher mammals. Hence, studying the cellular and molecular cascades involved in the key mechanism of information storage in the brain, synaptic plasticity, has led to enormous knowledge in this field. A major open question applies to the interdependence between synaptic plasticity and its behavioral correlates. In this context, it has become clear that behavioral aspects may impact subsequent synaptic plasticity, a phenomenon termed behavioral metaplasticity. Here, we trained control and pilocarpine-treated chronically epileptic rats of two different age groups (adolescent and adult) in a spatial memory task and subsequently tested long-term potentiation (LTP) in vitro at Schaffer collateral—CA1 synapses. As expected, memory acquisition in the behavioral task was significantly impaired both in pilocarpine-treated animals and in adult controls. Accordingly, these groups, without being tested in the behavioral training task, showed reduced CA1-LTP levels compared to untrained young controls. Spatial memory training significantly reduced subsequent CA1-LTP in vitro in the adolescent control group yet enhanced CA1-LTP in the adult pilocarpine-treated group. Such training in the adolescent pilocarpine-treated and adult control groups resulted in intermediate changes. Our study demonstrates age-dependent functional metaplasticity following a spatial memory training task and its reversal under pathological conditions.
Simulation of Solidified Microstructure and Experimental Comparative Study of Twin-Roll Casting Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Ma Teng , Zhang Junting , Cui Xiaochao , Sun Xiaosi
Published: October 2017

A coupled macro-micro mathematical model of twin-roll casting was established in the study. The continuous solidification process of Al-10Mg aluminum alloys in front of the nip point was numerically simulated by the cellular automaton method and the solidification microstructure, dendritic grain radius, and secondary dendrite arm spacing were obtained through simulation to predict the mechanical property of wedge strips. In order to verify the reliability of the simulation results, the metallographic examination and tensile tests were performed with the as-cast specimens. The results showed that the gain size, the distribution characteristics of various grain regions, dendrite arm spacing, and the yield strengths obtained from simulation were consistent with experimental results.
Hypermutated Circulating Tumor DNA: Correlation with Response to Checkpoint Inhibitor–Based Immunotherapy
Authors: Khagi Yulian , Goodman Aaron M. , Daniels Gregory A. , Patel Sandip P. , Sacco Assuntina G. , Randall James M. , Bazhenova Lyudmila A. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Tumor mutational burden detected by tissue next-generation sequencing (NGS) correlates with checkpoint inhibitor response. However, tissue biopsy may be costly and invasive. We sought to investigate the association between hypermutated blood-derived circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and checkpoint inhibitor response.

Experimental Design: We assessed 69 patients with diverse malignancies who received checkpoint inhibitor–based immunotherapy and blood-derived ctDNA NGS testing (54–70 genes). Rates of stable disease (SD) ≥6 months, partial and complete response (PR, CR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were assessed based on total and VUS alterations.

Results: Statistically significant improvement in PFS was associated with high versus low alteration number in variants of unknown significance (VUS, >3 alterations versus VUS ≤3 alterations), SD ≥6 months/PR/CR 45% versus 15%, respectively; P = 0.014. Similar results were seen with high versus low total alteration number (characterized plus VUS, ≥6 vs. <6). Statistically significant OS improvement was also associated with high VUS alteration status. Two-month landmark analysis showed that responders versus nonresponders with VUS >3 had a median PFS of 23 versus 2.3 months (P = 0.0004).

Conclusions: Given the association of alteration number on liquid biopsy and checkpoint inhibitor–based immunotherapy outcomes, further investigation of hypermutated ctDNA as a predictive biomarker is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 23(19); 5729–36. ©2017 AACR.
Current Practice of State-of-the-Art Surgical Coronary Revascularization
Authors: Head Stuart J. , Milojevic Milan , Taggart David P. , Puskas John D.
Published: October 2017

Coronary artery bypass grafting remains one of the most commonly performed major surgeries, with well-established symptomatic and prognostic benefits in patients with multivessel and left main coronary artery disease. This review summarizes current indications, contemporary practice, and outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting. Despite an increasingly higher-risk profile of patients, outcomes have significantly improved over time, with significant reductions in operative mortality and perioperative complications. Five- and 10-year survival rates are ≈85% to 95% and 75%, respectively. A number of technical advances could further improve short- and long-term outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting. Developments in off-pump and no-touch procedures; epiaortic scanning; conduit selection, including bilateral internal mammary artery and radial artery use; intraoperative graft assessment; minimally invasive procedures, including robotic-assisted surgery; and hybrid coronary revascularization are discussed.
Suicide patterns on the London Underground railway system, 2000–2010
Authors: Martin Susanna , Rawala Muffazal
Published: October 2017

Aims and Method

Suicidal acts on underground railway networks are an area of public health concern. Our aim was to review recent epidemiological patterns of suicidal acts on the London Underground to inform future preventive interventions. Data from 2000 to 2010 were obtained from the British Transport Police via a Freedom of Information request.

Results

The mean annual rate of suicidal acts from 2000 to 2010 was 5.8 per 100 million passenger journey stages. Of those who died by suicide, 77.3% were of White Northern European ethnicity. A fifth had a history of mental illness.

Clinical implications

The widening gap between the number of recorded suicide attempts and completed suicides is encouraging. Further research is required regarding the role of drug and alcohol use, psychiatric history and area of residence. Installation of platform screen doors should be considered in future railway network expansion.
Psychiatric neurosurgery in the 21st century: overview and the growth of deep brain stimulation
Authors: Barrett Kenneth
Published: October 2017

Ambulatory deep brain stimulation (DBS) became possible in the late 1980s and was initially used to treat people with movement disorders. Trials of DBS in people with treatment-resistant psychiatric disorder began in the late 1990s, initially focusing on obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder and Tourette syndrome. Despite methodological issues, including small participant numbers and lack of consensus over brain targets, DBS is now being trialled in a wide range of psychiatric conditions. There has also been more modest increase in ablative procedures. This paper reviews these developments in the light of contemporary brain science, considers future directions and discusses why the approach has not been adopted more widely within psychiatry.
Modernizing Clinical Trial Eligibility Criteria: Recommendations of the American Society of Clinical Oncology–Friends of Cancer Research HIV Working Group
Authors: Uldrick Thomas S. , Ison Gwynn , Rudek Michelle A. , Noy Ariela , Schwartz Karl , Bruinooge Suanna , Schenkel Caroline , Miller Barry , Dunleavy Kieron , Wang Judy , Zeldis Jerome , Little Richard F.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

People with HIV are living longer as a result of effective antiretroviral therapy. Cancer has become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in this patient population. However, studies of novel cancer therapeutics have historically excluded patients with HIV. Critical review of eligibility criteria related to HIV is required to accelerate development of and access to effective therapeutics for HIV-infected patients with cancer and make studies more generalizable to this patient population.

Methods

From January through April 2016, the HIV Working Group conducted a series of teleconferences; a review of 46 New Drug Applications from registration studies of unique agents studied in adults with cancer that led to the initial US Food and Drug Administration approval of that agent from 2011 to 2015; and a review of HIV-related eligibility criteria from National Cancer Institute–sponsored studies. Results were discussed and refined at a multistakeholder workshop held May 12, 2016. The HIV Working Group developed recommendations for eligibility criteria that focus on pharmacologic and immunologic considerations in this patient population and that balance patient safety, access to appropriate investigational agents, and study integrity.

Results

Exclusion of patients with HIV remains common in most studies of novel cancer agents. Models for HIV-related eligibility criteria in National Cancer Institute–sponsored studies are instructive. HIV infection itself should no longer be an exclusion criterion for most studies. Eligibility criteria related to HIV infection that address concurrent antiretroviral therapy and immune status should be designed in a manner that is appropriate for a given cancer.

Conclusion

Expanding clinical trial eligibility to be more inclusive of patients with HIV is justified in most cases and may accelerate the development of effective therapies in this area of unmet clinical need.
Modernizing Clinical Trial Eligibility Criteria: Recommendations of the American Society of Clinical Oncology–Friends of Cancer Research Brain Metastases Working Group
Authors: Lin Nancy U. , Prowell Tatiana , Tan Antoinette R. , Kozak Marina , Rosen Oliver , Amiri-Kordestani Laleh , White Julia , Sul Joohee , Perkins Louise , Beal Katherine , Gaynor Richard , Kim Edward S.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Broadening trial eligibility to improve accrual and access and to better reflect intended-to-treat populations has been recognized as a priority. Historically, patients with brain metastases have been understudied, because of restrictive eligibility across all phases of clinical trials.

Methods

In 2016, after a literature search and series of teleconferences, a multistakeholder workshop was convened. Our working group focused on developing consensus recommendations regarding the inclusion of patients with brain metastases in clinical trials, as part of a broader effort that encompassed minimum age, HIV status, and organ dysfunction. The working group attempted to balance the needs of protecting patient safety, facilitating access to investigational therapies, and ensuring trial integrity. On the basis of input at the workshop, guidelines were further refined and finalized.

Results

The working group identified three key populations: those with treated/stable brain metastases, defined as patients who have received prior therapy for their brain metastases and whose CNS disease is radiographically stable at study entry; those with active brain metastases, defined as new and/or progressive brain metastases at the time of study entry; and those with leptomeningeal disease. In most circumstances, the working group encourages the inclusion of patients with treated/stable brain metastases in clinical trials. A framework of key considerations for patients with active brain metastases was developed. For patients with leptomeningeal disease, inclusion of a separate cohort in both early-phase and later-phase trials is recommended, if CNS activity is anticipated and when relevant to the specific disease type.

Conclusion

Expanding eligibility to be more inclusive of patients with brain metastasis is justified in many cases and may speed the development of effective therapies in this area of high clinical need.
Mass media as the field of application of political technologies
Authors: Евдокимов Владимир , Evdokimov Vladimir
Published: October 2017

he aim of the publication of the textbook "Mass media as the field of application of political technologies" is formation at students of a complex of theoretical and practical knowledge about the basic models of modern political activity, the role of technologies in modern political process. The content of the book creates the conditions to develop the ability to use the methods of modern political science, skills of political analysis and political design, the ability to conceptualize the role of policy in the process of functioning of mass media.
Physical function and health-related quality of life in young adults with unilateral congenital lower-limb deficiencies
Authors: Kaastad T. S. , Tveter A. T. , Steen H. , Holm I.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The primary aim was to examine if there were differences in physical function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) between young adults (18 to 35 years) with unilateral congenital lower-limb deficiency (CLLD) who had been surgically lengthened (Surg) and those using lengthening prostheses (Pros). Second, we wanted to compare their health status with an age- and gender-matched reference group (Ref) without CLLD.

Methods

Cross-sectional study including a study-specific questionnaire, clinical examination, two field tests evaluating physical function (the six-minute walk test and the Stair test) and HRQoL questionnaires (Short Form (SF)-36 and EuroQol (EQ)-5D-3L).

Results

Physical function and HRQoL did not differ between the two treatment groups. The odds for having painful or disfiguring scars were 18 times higher in the Surg group (n = 16) compared with the Pros group (n = 14). The CLLD group showed significantly reduced physical function compared with the Ref group. HRQoL, measured by the EQ-5D-3L visual rating scale, was significantly reduced in the CLLD group compared with the Ref group, as was the SF-36 physical function domain in both genders. Men with CLLD also showed increased bodily pain and reduced general health (SF-36), while we found a reduction in the emotional role domain in women compared with Ref.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in physical function and quality of life in young adults with CLLD treated with surgical lengthening compared with those using lengthening prostheses. Compared with the general Norwegian population, young adults with CLLD had significantly lower physical function and reduced HRQoL in some domains.
Obstacles to reduction in infantile developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Studer K. , Williams N. , Studer P. , Baker M. , Glynn A. , Foster B. K. , Cundy P. J.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Identification of anatomical structures that block ­reduction in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is ­important for the management of this challenging condition. Obstacles to reduction seen on arthrogram are well-known. However, despite the increasing use of MRI in the assessment of adequacy of reduction in DDH, the interpretation of MRI patho-anatomy is ill-defined with a lack of relevant literature to guide clinicians.

Method

This is a retrospective analysis of the MRI of patients with DDH treated by closed reduction over a five-year period (between 2009 and 2014). Neuromuscular and genetic disorders were excluded. Each MRI was analysed by two orthopaedic surgeons and a paediatric musculoskeletal radiologist to identify the ligamentum teres, pulvinar, transverse acetabular ligament (TAL), capsule, labrum and acetabular roof cartilage hypertrophy. Inter- and intraobserver reliability was calculated. The minimum follow-up was 12 months.

Results

A total of 29 patients (38 hips) underwent closed reduction for treatment of DDH. Eight hips showed persistent subluxation on post-operative MRI. Only three of these eight hips showed an abnormality on arthrogram. The pulvinar was frequently interpreted as ‘abnormal’ on MRI. The main obstacles identified on MRI were the ligamentum teres (15.8%), labrum (13.1%) and acetabular roof cartilage hypertrophy (13.2%). The inter-rater reliability was good for TAL, capsule and pulvinar; moderate for ligamentum teres and labrum; and poor for hypertrophied cartilage.

Conclusion

The labrum, ligamentum teres and acetabular roof cartilage hypertrophy are the most important structures seen on MRI preventing complete reduction of DDH. Focused interpretation of these structures may assist in the management of DDH.
Spinal canal dimensions affect outcome of adolescent disc herniation
Authors: Linkoaho O. , Kivisaari R. , Ahonen M.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Small spinal canal dimensions play a role in symptomatic adult disc herniation, but its role in adolescent disc herniation has not been investigated with MRI. The goal of this study was to examine retrospectively if there is a correlation with dimensions of osseous spinal canal and need of discectomy in an adolescent population suffering from disc herniation.

Methods

A retrospective review of child and adolescent patients who were treated in our institution for back or back-­related leg pain was conducted. Patients were divided in three groups; group 1: lumbar disc herniation requiring operative treatment; group 2: lumbar disc herniation treated with observation; and group 3: back pain and no disc herniation on MRI. MRI images and radiographs were studied for spinal canal dimensions and compared between groups.

Results

The discectomy group presented considerably smaller spinal canal dimensions measured from the MRI images than the two other groups.

Conclusion

Adolescent patients requiring operative treatment for symptomatic disc herniation have smaller osseous spinal canals than patients who are managed non-operatively.
Kringle IV Type 2, Not Low Lipoprotein(a), as a Cause of Diabetes: A Novel Genetic Approach Using SNPs Associated Selectively with Lipoprotein(a) Concentrations or with Kringle IV Type 2 Repeats
Authors: Tolbus Andra , Mortensen Martin B , Nielsen Sune F , Kamstrup Pia R , Bojesen Stig E , Nordestgaard Børge G
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Low plasma lipoprotein(a) concentrations are associated with type 2 diabetes. Whether this is due to low lipoprotein(a) concentrations per se or to a large number of kringle IV type 2 (KIV-2) repeats remains unclear. We therefore aimed to identify genetic variants associated selectively with lipoprotein(a) concentrations or with the number of KIV-2 repeats, to investigate which of these traits confer risk of diabetes.

METHODS

We genotyped 8411 individuals from the Copenhagen City Heart Study for 778 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the proximity of the LPA gene, and examined the association of these SNPs with plasma concentrations of lipoprotein(a) and with KIV-2 number of repeats. SNPs that were selectively associated with lipoprotein(a) concentrations but not with KIV-2 number of repeats, or vice versa, were included in a Mendelian randomization study.

RESULTS

We identified 3 SNPs (rs12209517, rs12194138, and rs641990) that were associated selectively with lipoprotein(a) concentrations and 3 SNPs (rs1084651, rs9458009, and rs9365166) that were associated selectively with KIV-2 number of repeats. For SNPs selectively associated with lipoprotein(a) concentrations, an allele score of 4–6 vs 0–2 had an odds ratio for type 2 diabetes of 1.03 (95% CI, 0.86–1.23). In contrast, for SNPs selectively associated with KIV-2 number of repeats, an allele score of 4–6 vs 0–2 had an odds ratio for type 2 diabetes of 1.42 (95% CI, 1.17–1.69).

CONCLUSIONS

Using a novel genetic approach, our results indicate that it is a high number of KIV-2 repeats that are associated causally with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and not low lipoprotein(a) concentrations per se. This is a reassuring finding for lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapies that do not increase the KIV-2 number of repeats.
Parallel worlds: A computerized textual analysis of abstracts published in major journalism studies journals 2000–11
Authors: Cokley John , Tilley Elspeth , Hetherington Susan , Angus Daniel , Taylor Annie
Published: October 2017

A total of 1018 English-language abstracts in the field of journalism studies, published from 2000–2011 in three internationally peer-reviewed journals, were subjected to computerized textual analysis and manual (human) discourse analysis to discover trends. The project aimed to build on previous studies and to describe what the researchers expected would be a new consensus snapshot among editors and top-level reviewers of the evolution and direction of Journalism Studies in the English-speaking world. Expected results emerged and are presented in detail: national priorities dominate two of the three journals while international and generally theoretical themes dominate the third. However, an unexpected result was that while the three journals contain identifiable themes in journalism studies over the twelve years examined, there was negligible evidence of interaction between these themes within or between the journals. Systems theory suggests that the ‘journalism’ itself, which has been the target of the ‘studies’ has been experiencing a period of stagnation and that very little, if any, overall interaction, discipline development and change has taken place. We argue that a root cause for this is the lack of professional leadership in journalism.
‘Ghana in the Eyes of God’: Media ecology and the Anas journalistic investigation of Ghana’s judiciary
Authors: Odartey-Wellington Felix , Anas Anas Aremeyaw , Boamah Percy
Published: October 2017

In September 2015, investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas revealed covertly gathered audio-visual evidence of judicial corruption in Ghana. We contextualize the journalistic investigation that resulted in what became known as the ‘judges scandal’ in media ecology, emphasizing the importance of digital technologies to the investigation. From a discourse analysis of media reportage, we argue that public focus on the human agency implicated in the investigation is unmatched by conversations regarding the impact of new communication technologies that facilitated the investigation. We suggest a conversational expansion to consider ramifications of new digital communication technologies for social power relations in Ghana, and the potential for holding public office holders to account. By highlighting communication technology as a factor, we direct attention to a potential area for intervention by way of journalistic activity and civil society capacity building in Ghana.
Palestinian journalists, professional values and the negotiation of identity
Authors: Robins Melinda B. , Roushanzamir Elizabeth Lester
Published: October 2017

The world of the Palestinian journalist is complex, difficult and emotional. This project examines how journalists trained in what Americans would consider conventional professional values see themselves. A survey of 75 Palestinian journalists is augmented by the self-reports of sixteen long interviews that give insight into the negotiation of personal and professional identities.
Early Western Writing, Sensory Modalities, and Modern Alphabetic Literacy: On the Origins of Representational Theorizing
Authors: Anton Corey
Published: October 2017

This article interrogates the so-called “crisis in representation” as a symptom of forgotten alphabetic literacy. My analysis launches its critique by attending to John Stewart’s recent writings on “the symbol model” and advances through two main sections. The first reviews historical developments in alphabetic technologies, identifying both basic differences and early impacts. The second section addresses phenomenological differences between hearing and vision and attempts to document how alphabetic writing enables speech to be heard as it could be seen if it were written. In summary, I try to demonstrate how literacy, the modern condition of logos, inseparably fuses with “oral/aural articulate contact.”
The use of music in mutual recovery: A qualitative pilot study
Authors: Callahan Kiley , Schlozman Steven , Beresin Eugene , Crawford Paul
Published: October 2017

Mutual recovery involves caregivers and their clients mutually participating in artistic endeavours to foster resilience in both parties. A qualitative enquiry into the use of group music making (referred to as a ‘Music Jam’) between both the caregivers and clients at a residential treatment facility for adults with developmental disabilities and schizophrenia was conducted. The purpose of this study was to examine whether shared musical endeavours enjoyed therapeutic and resilience building utility for both the caregivers and clients. A focus group was conducted in which comments were collected and transcribed for qualitative analysis. Themes of enhanced respect and equality among clients for the caregivers, and intrapersonal connectedness and enhanced feelings of community emerged during analysis. Both parties expressed recurrent themes of humility, mutual respect and overall enjoyment. Mutual recovery practices where caregivers and their clients play music outside of therapeutic settings are an effective means by which resiliency and connectedness can be enhanced in all participants. To this end, other forms of mutual recovery deserve greater investigation in order to better examine whether these practices are worth implementing in larger and more varied formats.
Reviews
Authors: Jones Jonathan , Byrne Libby , Derrington Philippa , Blair Erin , Meyers Carmen
Published: October 2017

Into the Story 2: More Stories! More Drama!, Carole Miller and Juliana Saxton (2016) Bristol, UK: Intellect, 238 pp., ISBN: 9781783205745, p/bk, $43.00

Embroidered Cancer Comic, Sima Elizabeth Shefrin (2016) London: Singing Dragon, 32 pp., ISBN: 9781848192898, p/bk, £7.99

Rhythm to Recovery: A Practical Guide to Using Rhythmic Music, Voice and Movement for Social and Emotional Development, Simon Faulkner (2017) London and Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 256 pp., ISBN: 9781785921322, p/bk, $29.95

Art-Based Group Therapy: Theory and Practice, 2nd ed., Bruce Moon (2016) Chicago, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publishers Ltd., 258 pp., ISBN: 9780398091156, p/bk, $38.95; ISBN: 9780398091163, e-book $38.95

Theatre in Education in Britain: Origins, Development and Influence, Roger Wooster (2016) London and New York: Bloomsbury Methuen Drama, 312 pp., ISBN: 9781472591494, p/bk, $19.79
Promoting young people’s mental health and well-being through participation in the arts: A mixed-methods service evaluation of the Zinc Arts ArtZone programme
Authors: Wilson Ceri , Sharpe Darren
Published: October 2017

Arts-for-health initiatives are associated with improvements in mental health, wellbeing and social inclusion; however, research amongst young people is sparse. The aim of the study was to conduct a mixed-methods evaluation of a participatory arts programme for young people with, or at risk of, mental ill health. The Zinc Arts ArtZone programme involved working with individuals aged 11–25 in south-east England, engaging them in arts activities over ten-week courses in community and secure unit settings. 122 course participants completed pre/post measures of mental illness severity and well-being, and 34 participants took part in interviews and focus groups. Mental illness severity significantly decreased and mental well-being significantly increased. Participants reported social and emotional benefits including decreased social isolation and increased social inclusion and mental well-being. Participatory arts interventions may serve as a useful tool in tackling increasing mental ill health amongst young people.
Remixing identity: Creating meaning from songs written by patients recovering from a spinal cord injury
Authors: Viega Michael , Baker Felicity A.
Published: October 2017

Physical trauma that leads to a spinal cord injury can have a devastating impact on a patient’s self-identity. Therapeutic songwriting has been found to decrease symptoms of depression and increase self-concept for people who find themselves having to reconstruct their identity after experiencing a spinal cord injury following a traumatic accident. This study examines the developmental processes of self-concept through an arts-based analysis of songs (N=27) written by adult patients (N=9) who are in rehabilitation due to a road traffic injury. Four composite character portraits were revealed from the arts-based analysis, and the results are reconstructed as music compositions, which were created from sampling the original songs. Each character represents various stages of identity development post-accident: non-compliant, accepting help, creative engagement and transfiguration. Implications and future research potentials from this study have been discussed.
Is there significant erosion of political system support in Portugal? Aa longitudinal and comparative analysis (2000–10)
Authors: Teixeira Conceição Pequito , Pereira Paulo de Almeida
Published: October 2017

In this article, we study how Portuguese citizens see and assess the democratic regime in a longitudinal and comparative perspective. This individual-level study is based on the assumption that mass attitudes have a clear and direct impact on politics, especially on democratic polities.
Inspired by the original theoretical and conceptual Easton's framework, developed and reformulated later by other authors (Norris, Kinglemann and Dalton), we explore the multidimensional perspective of the concept of political support, its levels and components. Building on a wide range of
national and cross-national survey indicators for evidence, concerning both the Portuguese case and some European countries included in the fifth wave of the World Values Survey, we analyse and try understanding the longitudinal trends concerning each political system's dimensions or components.
The main objective of this article is to find out to what extent it is possible to speak of an erosion of Portuguese citizens' support for the political system during the last decade, and if there has been to discern its nature, cumulative effects and magnitude. The time series analysis allowed
us to conclude that the hypothesis of a crisis of legitimacy in Portugal during this period must be rejected. Thus, what seems to be contested in Portugal, as in other European democracies, are the political objects that comprise a more specific level of support, including regime performance,
regime institutions and political actors, due to an increasing level of frustration of accumulated unfulfilled expectations of democracy processes.
Disappearance of the body: An interview with Cécile Bourne Farrell
Authors: Al-Ani Jananne
Published: October 2017

In this interview with curator Cécile Bourne Farrell, artist Jananne Al-Ani discusses her aerial films Shadow Sites I (2010) and Shadow Sites II (2011) and the representation of landscape, from the Middle East to the American south-west, in relation to Kitty Hauser’s book Shadow Sites: Photography, Archaeology, & the British Landscape 1927–1955 (2007) a study on the emergence of aerial archaeology and the role of the sun’s movement in materializing latent histories embedded in the landscape. A French translation of the interview first appeared in issue 59 of the journal Multitudes.
Part 5
Authors: Davis Christine , Lyall Scott , Patton Andy , Haladyn Julian Jason , Leslie Esther , Smith Elizabeth A. T. , Kassay Jacob
Published: October 2017

Entries: Qualified Intensity, Notebooks, Coal Tar, Accidents, Chemical Reciprocal Action, Colour Issues, Makeup, Delivery, Use, Smart Paint?. Includes text by Christine Davis, Scott Lyall, Andy Patton, Julian Jason Haladyn, Esther Leslie, Elizabeth A. T. Smith, Jacob Kassay. Artworks by Andy Patton, Shirley Wiitasalo, F.F. Runge, Helen Frankenthaler, Jacob Kassay
Part 2
Authors: Stengers Isabelle , Smith Tracy K. , Davis Christine
Published: October 2017

Entries: An Eternal Object, Value, Infection, A Confidence of Two, Endurance, Awareness, Experience. Includes text by Isabelle Stengers from Thinking with Whitehead, Christine Davis and Scott Lyall. Artworks by Wael Shawky, Paul P., Christine Davis, Adrian Piper, Terry Adkins, Chris Curreri. Poem by Tracy K. Smith
Part 6
Authors: Davis Christine , Lyall Scott , P. Paul , Balfour Ian , Stengers Isabelle
Published: October 2017

Entries: Contemporaries, Saturation, Noir, Settlements, Seeds, Trees, Audio Cryptograms, Includes text by Christine Davis, Scott Lyall, Paul P., Ian Balfour, Isabelle Stengers. Artworks by Jack Kath, Fiona Annis, Silke Otto-Knapp, Stephen Andrews, Mario Doucette, Nadia Myre, Charles Gaines, Blake Rayne, Charles E.

Burchfield, Nancy Weekly

Poem by Eleni Sikelianos
Play, Precarity and Survival
Authors: DiRisio Michael
Published: October 2017

Review of Play, Precarity and Survival, curated by Sigrid Dahle, organized by the Manitoba Craft Council, exhibited at aceart inc., Winnipeg, 30 July–22 August 2015.
A battle for a brave new world
Authors: Sealey Jenny
Published: October 2017

In this reflective article and provocative play, the author draws first on her experience as Co-Artistic Director of the London 2012 Paralympic Opening Ceremony. She charts the challenges, opportunities and optimism that shaped the lead-up to the event. She also highlights key aspects of the Ceremony’s personal, artistic and political successes. These moments serve as sharp contrast, however, to the shock experienced by many disabled UK citizens in response to the government cuts to the Access to Work and Independent Living Fund that followed the Games. To share the impact of these cuts on disabled people’s lives, the articlechanges tack to include the script for a new piece of verbatim theatre, Sorry. The play assembles responses to the author’s call out to the Disability Arts community asking for stories about the cuts or their lives as artists. It has been performed in various universities, colleges, arts establishments and political platforms.
The application of Ramsey model to the Algerian economy
Authors: Yamna Achour Tani , Van Cuong Le
Published: October 2017

This article discusses the optimal growth of a developing country rich in natural resources. The Ramsey model aims at identifying the paths of optimal growth arising from the conjunction of agents’ preferences, technical possibilities and the initial endowment of production factors. The choice of this model appears to be more intuitive and preferable for a first approach since it teaches capital accumulation and consumption. We must know what the economic agents will consume and what they will add to the capital stock for the future. The objective is to maximize social welfare at every point in time by determining an optimal consumption path that takes into account the characteristics of the economy. One of the main results of the Ramsey model is that any optimal path converges to a steady state.
A Influência da Reforma Gerencial sobre a Cultura Organizacional no Âmbito da Gestão Escolar
Authors: Barros Clarície Novaes Valgueiro , Moura Jocimara Santos de , Brandão Niuvania Layze Muniz , Alexandre Lucimara Araújo Campos
Published: October 2017

A reforma gerencial tentou introduzir na Administração Pública brasileira, até então marcada pelas disfunções dos modelos anteriores, princípios já aplicados pela gestão empresarial, sobretudo o foco no resultado e a busca pela excelência. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo, através da pesquisa bibliográfica, analisar a influência da reforma gerencial sobre a cultura organizacional na gestão escolar, identificando as ações implementadas para promover a mudança cultural bem como os principais entraves a essa implementação. Percebe-se que a implementação dos princípios da Administração Gerencial no âmbito escolar vem se desenvolvendo de forma lenta, visto a complexidade da cultura organizacional em um ambiente tradicionalista como a escola, o que ratificou a importância do incentivo a iniciativas como a participação democrática na gestão escolar e a descentralização da gestão como auxiliares na assimilação das práticas gerenciais na cultura organizacional escolar com o fim de aumentar os resultados e a melhoria da educação no Brasil.
Avaliação do Estresse Térmico causado em operador de caldeira: Um estudo sobre a Saúde no Ambiente Laboral
Authors: Zinelli Marlize Reffatti , Martins Paulo Fernado do Nascimento , Costa Aline Buzzo da , Barella Laureano Antônio
Published: October 2017

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o estresse térmico em que o operador de caldeira fica exposto e os métodos de evitar tal problema nas indústrias madeireiras no município de Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso. Para tanto, a metodologia empregada foi de acordo com a Norma de Higiene Ocupacional – NHO 06, usando o medidor de estresse térmico digital portátil modelo TGD-200. A coleta de dados foi realizada em 3 empresas de beneficiamento de madeira que utilizam caldeira para suas atividades. Os resultados indicaram que os valores IBTUG estão acima do permitido pela legislação o que torna os ambientes de trabalho insalubres. De fato, é de grande importância que os empresários tomem conhecimento desse problema para se enquadrem nas normas e assim evitem um dano a saúde dos trabalhadores.