bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salvia-Nelumbinis Naturalis Formula Improved Inflammation in LPS Stressed Macrophages via Upregulating MicroRNA-152
Authors: Ma Zansong , Shu Xiangbing , Huang Jie , Zhang Haiyan , Xiao Zhen , Zhang Li
Published: January 2017

Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis (SNN) formula is an effective agent in treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH); however, the precise mechanisms are still undefined. Activation of Kupffer cells by gut-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of NASH. In the present study, we aimed to explore the epigenetic regulation of microRNAs under the beneficial effects of SNN-containing serum in LPS stressed macrophages. Kupffer cells were isolated from C57BL/6 mice and treated with LPS or LPS and SNN-containing serum; the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) was assessed. By using microarray chips, we investigated differentially expressed microRNA profiles to decipher the underlining mechanisms of SNN-containing serum. It was revealed that SNN-containing serum decreased TNF-α and IL-6 expression, and microRNA-152 was identified as the potential epigenetic regulator. We further verified the pharmacological effects in Raw264.7 cells; while transfection with miRNA-152 mimics could reduce TNF-α and IL-6, transfection with miRNA-152 inhibitor blocked the anti-inflammatory effect of SNN-containing serum. These results suggested that SNN-containing serum could improve inflammation in LPS stressed Kupffer cells and macrophages via upregulating microRNA-152.
Cryptotanshinone Regulates Androgen Synthesis through the ERK/c‐Fos/CYP17 Pathway in Porcine Granulosa Cells
Authors: Ye Danfeng , Li Meifang , Zhang Yuehui , Wang Xinhua , Liu Hua , Wu Wanting , Ma Wanying , Quan Kewei , Ng Ernest H. Y. , Wu Xiaoke , Lai Maohua , Ma Hongxia
Published: January 2017

The aim of the study is to investigate the molecular mechanism behind androgen reduction in porcine granulosa cells (pGCs) with Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge extract cryptotanshinone. PGCs were isolated from porcine ovaries and identified. Androgen excess model of the pGCs was induced with the MAPK inhibitor PD98059 and then treated with cryptotanshinone. The testosterone level was measured by radioimmunoassay in the culture media. The protein levels of P‐ERK1/2, c‐Fos, and CYP17 in the cells were measured by western blot. Cryptotanshinone decreased the concentration of testosterone and the protein level of CYP17 and increased the protein levels of P‐ERK1/2 and c‐Fos in the androgen excess mode. After the c‐Fos gene was silenced by infection with c‐Fos shRNA lentivirus, we measured the mRNA expression by quantitative RT‐PCR and protein level by western blot of P‐ERK1/2, c‐Fos, and CYP17. This showed that the mRNA expression and protein level of P‐ERK1/2 and c‐Fos were significantly reduced in the shRNA–c‐Fos group compared to the scrambled group, while those of CYP17 were significantly increased. So we concluded that cryptotanshinone can significantly reduce the androgen excess induced by PD98059 in pGCs. The possible molecular mechanism for this activity is regulating the ERK/c‐Fos/CYP17 pathway.
Preventive Effects of a Chinese Herbal Formula, Shengjiang Xiexin Decoction, on Irinotecan‐Induced Delayed‐Onset Diarrhea in Rats
Authors: Deng Chao , Deng Bo , Jia Liqun , Tan Huangying , Zhang Pan , Liu Sida , Zhang Yanan , Song Aiping , Pan Lin
Published: January 2017

Irinotecan is a well‐known chemotherapy drug for the treatment of various cancers. However, delayed‐onset diarrhea is a common adverse reaction, limiting the application of the drug. The study presented was designed to evaluate the preventive effects of Shengjiang Xiexin decoction (SXD) on irinotecan‐induced diarrhea and to explore the possible mechanisms of this action. We established a diarrhea rat model. The condition of the rats was observed. The proliferation and apoptosis of intestinal cells were measured using immunohistochemical assays and a caspase‐3 activity assay, respectively. The expression of Lgr5 and CD44 staining were used to observe intestinal stem cells (ISCs). In addition, the activity of β‐glucuronidase in the rats’ feces was measured. Our results showed that the number of proliferating intestinal cells in the SXD groups was obviously higher, while the activity of caspase‐3 was lower. The expression of Lgr5 and the integrated option density (IOD) of CD44 stain were increased significantly by SXD. Additionally, SXD decreased the activity of β‐glucuronidase after irinotecan administration. In conclusion, SXD exhibited preventive effects on irinotecan‐induced diarrhea, and this action was associated with an inhibitory effect on intestinal apoptosis and β‐glucuronidase and a promotive effect on intestinal cell proliferation due to increased maintenance of ISCs.
Traffic Adaptive MAC Protocols in Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Masud Farhan , Abdullah Abdul Hanan , Abdul-Salaam Gaddafi , Ullah Fasee
Published: January 2017

In Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs), every healthcare application that is based on physical sensors is responsible for monitoring the vital signs data of patient. WBANs applications consist of heterogeneous and dynamic traffic loads. Routine patient’s observation is described as low-load traffic while an alarming situation that is unpredictable by nature is referred to as high-load traffic. This paper offers a thematic review of traffic adaptive Medium Access Control (MAC) protocols in WBANs. First, we have categorized them based on their goals, methods, and metrics of evaluation. The Zigbee standard IEEE 802.15.4 and the baseline MAC IEEE 802.15.6 are also reviewed in terms of traffic adaptive approaches. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of the protocols is made and their performances are analyzed in terms of delay, packet delivery ratio (PDR), and energy consumption. The literature shows that no review work has been done on traffic adaptive MAC protocols in WBANs. This review work, therefore, could add enhancement to traffic adaptive MAC protocols and will stimulate a better way of solving the traffic adaptivity problem.
Safety of Potato Consumption in Slovak Region Contaminated by Heavy Metals due to Previous Mining Activity
Authors: Musilova Janette , Bystricka Judita , Vollmannova Alena , Janotova Beata , Orsak Matyas , Harangozo Lubos , Hegedusova Alzbeta
Published: January 2017

Heavy metals are among the most serious environmental contaminants in mining districts. Soil, as one of the main components of the environment, is the place of heavy metal entry into plants and consequently into the food chain, too. Potatoes grown in the region of Middle Spis (Slovakia) may be a source of increased content of heavy metals and pose a health risk to the consumer. The contents of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, and Ni) in potato and soil samples were determined using the AAS method and compared with limit values set by the Slovak Republic and the European Union. The content of heavy metals was determined in 12 potato cultivars with different length of vegetation period (mid-early, very early, and early, resp.), which were grown in three localities with a highly disturbed environment. Total contents and mobile forms of heavy metals as well as physical and chemical properties were determined in soil samples which were collected from the same sampling sites. Only Pb content in potato tubers was higher than the hygienic limit value (0.1 mg kg−1 FM) in 15 sampling sites (interval was n.d. –0.2298 mg kg−1 FM). The contents of exchangeable forms (total content) of heavy metals in soil were ranged between the intervals: Cd 0.004–0.055 (0.94–1 56), Pb 0.023–0.295 (17.00–26.80), and Ni 0.019–0.475 (30.80–71.00) mg kg−1. At current average consumption levels of potatoes, tolerable weekly intake (TWI) or tolerable daily intake (TDI) for observed heavy metals was not exceeded.
On the Symmetries and Conservation Laws of the Multidimensional Nonlinear Damped Wave Equations
Authors: Al-Ali Usamah S. , Bokhari Ashfaque H. , Kara A. H. , Zaman F. D.
Published: January 2017

We carry out a classification of Lie symmetries for the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear damped wave equationutt+fuut=div(gugrad u)with variable damping. Similarity reductions of the equation are performed using the admitted Lie symmetries of the equation and some interesting solutions are presented. Employing the multiplier approach, admitted conservation laws of the equation are constructed for some new, interesting cases.
Nut Consumption and Lung Cancer Risk: Results from Two Large Observational Studies
Authors: Lee Jennifer T. , Lai Gabriel Y. , Liao Linda M. , Subar Amy F. , Bertazzi Pier Alberto , Pesatori Angela C. , Freedman Neal D. , Landi Maria Teresa , Lam Tram Kim
Published: January 2017

Background: Epidemiologic evidence on the association between nut consumption and lung cancer risk is limited.

Methods: We investigated this relationship in the Environment and Genetics in Lung Cancer Etiology (EAGLE) study, a population-based case–control study, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Diet and Health Study, a prospective cohort. We identified 2,098 lung cases for EAGLE and 18,533 incident cases in AARP. Diet was assessed by food frequency questionnaire for both studies. Multivariable ORs and HRs and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using unconditional logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression for EAGLE and AARP, respectively.

Results: Higher frequency of intake of nut consumption was inversely associated with overall lung cancer risk (highest vs. lowest quintile, OREAGLE = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57–0.95; HRAARP = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.81–0.91), regardless of smoking status. Results from the prospective cohort showed similar associations across histologic subtypes and a more pronounced benefits from nut consumption for those who smoked 1 to 20 cigarettes/day (OREAGLE = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39–0.95; HRAARP = 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74–0.94).

Conclusions: Nut consumption was inversely associated with lung cancer in two large population-based studies, and associations were independent of cigarette smoking and other known risk factors.

Impact: To our knowledge, this is the first study that examined the association between nut consumption and lung cancer risk by histologic subtypes and smoking intensity. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(6); 826–36. ©2017 AACR.
Enhanced Auditory Sensitivity to Body Vibrations in Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome
Authors: Brantberg Krister , Verrecchia Luca , Westin Magnus
Published: January 2017

A key feature of superior canal dehiscence (SCD) syndrome is supranormal hearing of body sounds. The aim of the present study was to quantify this phenomenon and to ascertain whether auditory sensitivity to body vibrations can distinguish SCD patients. Hearing thresholds in response to vibration at the vertex, at the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra, and at the medial malleolus were tested in 10 SCD patients and 10 controls. Both patients and controls had insert earphones in both ears. The insert in the test ear was blocked while masking was presented to the other ear. Vibration in the frequency range of 125-1,000 Hz was presented to each of the 3 stimulation sites. The SCD patients were found to have significantly lower hearing thresholds compared with controls. The two study groups reacted differently with respect to frequency. The SCD patients showed an enhanced sensitivity for the lower stimulus frequencies. The difference was, however, rather independent of stimulus presentation site. The findings suggest that hearing thresholds in response to low-frequency body vibration at sites distant from the ears can distinguish SCD patients. The present findings may also support the idea that auditory sensation to body vibrations is a response related to soft tissue conduction.
Efficacy and Safety of Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion of Recombinant Human Gonadotropins for Congenital Micropenis during Early Infancy
Authors: Stoupa Athanasia , Samara-Boustani Dinane , Flechtner Isabelle , Pinto Graziella , Jourdon Isabelle , González-Briceño Laura , Bidet Maud , Laborde Kathleen , Chevenne Didier , Millischer Anne-Elodie , Lottmann Henri , Blanc Thomas , Aigrain Yves , Polak Michel , Beltrand Jacques
Published: January 2017

Background: Early postnatal administration of gonadotropins to infants with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can mimic minipuberty, thereby increasing penile growth. We assessed the effects of gonadotropin infusion on stretched penile length (SPL) and hormone levels in infants with congenital micropenis. Methods: Single-center study including 6 males with micropenis in case of isolated CHH (n = 4), panhypopituitarism (n = 1), and partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS; n = 1). Patients were evaluated at baseline, monthly and at the end of the study through a clinical examination (SPL, testicular position and size), serum hormone assays (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, inhibin B, anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH]), and ultrasound of penis/testes. Results: In CHH, significant increases occurred in serum testosterone (from undetectable level to 3.5 ± 4.06 ng/mL [12.15 ± 14.09 nmol/L]), SPL (from 13.8 ± 4.5 to 42.6 ± 5 mm; p < 0.0001), inhibin B (from 94.8 ± 74.9 to 469.4 ± 282.5 pg/mL, p = 0.04), and AMH (from 49.6 ± 30.6 to 142 ± 76.5 ng/mL, p = 0.03). Micropenis was corrected in all patients, except one. On treatment, in the patient with PAIS, SPL was increased from 13 to 38 mm. Conclusions: Early gonadotropin infusion is a safe, well-tolerated and effective treatment. The effect in PAIS has not been reported previously. Long-term follow-up is needed to assess the impact, if any, on future fertility and reproduction.
The fifth epidermal growth factor like region of thrombomodulin alleviates LPS-induced sepsis through interacting with GPR15
Authors: Pan Bin , Wang Xiangmin , Kojima Shinsuke , Nishioka Chie , Yokoyama Akihito , Honda Goichi , Xu Kailin , Ikezoe Takayuki
Published: January 2017

Thrombomodulin (TM) exerts cytoprotection via the fifth region of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain of TM (TME5) by interacting with G-protein coupled receptor 15 (GPR15) expressed on cell surface of vascular endothelial cells. TM is also implied to mediate anti-inflammatory functions by unknown mechanism. By applying a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine sepsis model, we assessed the role of TME5 in septic inflammation and coagulation. We found that TME5 treatment protected mice in association with ameliorating inflammation and coagulopathy in LPS-induced sepsis. Further study confirmed that TME5 bound GPR15 in vitro. Knock out of GPR15 abolished protective role of TME5 in sepsis model. GPR15 mediated anti-inflammatory function of TME5 through suppression of phosphorylation of IκBα, nuclear translocation of NF-κB and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in macro-phages (Macs). Knock out of GPR15 resulted in dysregulated immune response of Macs, characterised by excessive expression of pro-inflammatory genes and failing to limit immune response. This study indicates that TME5 exerts anti-inflammatory function through inhibition of NF-κB in a GPR15-dependent manner. The use of TME5 may be a potential therapeutic option for treatment of sepsis.

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.
Osteoprotegerin Disruption Attenuates HySu-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension Through Integrin α
v
β
3
/FAK/AKT Pathway Suppression
Authors: Jia Daile , Zhu Qian , Liu Huan , Zuo Caojian , He Yuhu , Chen Guilin , Lu Ankang
Published: January 2017

Background—

Pulmonary arterial remodeling characterized by increased vascular smooth muscle proliferation is commonly seen in life-threatening disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Clinical studies have suggested a correlation between osteoprotegerin serum levels and PAH severity. Here, we aimed to invhestigate vascular osteoprotegerin expression and its effects on pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo, as well as examine the signal transduction pathways mediating its activity.

Methods and Results—

Serum osteoprotegerin levels were significantly elevated in patients with PAH and correlated with disease severity as determined by the World Health Organization (WHO) functional classifications and 6-minute walking distance tests. Similarly, increased osteoprotegerin expression was observed in the pulmonary arteries of hypoxia plus SU5416– and monocrotaline-induced PAH animal models. Moreover, osteoprotegerin disruption attenuated hypoxia plus SU5416–induced PAH progression by reducing pulmonary vascular remodeling, whereas lentiviral osteoprotegerin reconstitution exacerbated PAH by increasing pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation. Furthermore, pathway analysis revealed that osteoprotegerin induced pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation by interacting with integrin α
v
β
3
to elicit downstream focal adhesion kinase and AKT pathway activation.

Conclusions—

Osteoprotegerin facilitates PAH pathogenesis by regulating pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation, suggesting that it may be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in this disease.
Single-Dose Intracardiac Injection of Pro-Regenerative MicroRNAs Improves Cardiac Function After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lesizza Pierluigi , Prosdocimo Giulia , Martinelli Valentina , Sinagra Gianfranco , Zacchigna Serena , Giacca Mauro
Published: January 2017

Rationale:

Recent evidence indicates that a few human microRNAs (miRNAs), in particular hsa-miR-199a-3p and hsa-miR-590-3p, stimulate proliferation of cardiomyocytes and, once expressed in the mouse heart using viral vectors, induce cardiac regeneration after myocardial infarction. Viral vectors, however, are not devoid of safety issues and, more notably, drive expression of the encoded miRNAs for indefinite periods of time, which might not be desirable in light of human therapeutic application.

Objective:

As an alternative to the use of viral vectors, we wanted to assess the efficacy of synthetic miRNA mimics in inducing myocardial repair after single intracardiac injection using synthetic lipid formulations.

Methods and Results:

We comparatively analyzed the efficacy of different lipid formulations in delivering hsa-miR-199a-3p and hsa-miR-590-3p both in primary neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes and in vivo. We established a transfection protocol allowing persistence of these 2 mimics for at least 12 days after a single intracardiac injection, with minimal dispersion to other organs and long-term preservation of miRNA functional activity, as assessed by monitoring the expression of 2 mRNA targets. Administration of this synthetic formulation immediately after myocardial infarction in mice resulted in marked reduction of infarct size and persistent recovery of cardiac function.

Conclusions:

A single administration of synthetic miRNA–lipid formulations is sufficient to stimulate cardiac repair and restoration of cardiac function.
Predictors of Nonuse of a High‐Potency Statin After an Acute Coronary Syndrome: Insights From the Stabilization of Plaques Using Darapladib‐Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 52 (SOLID‐TIMI 52) Trial
Authors: Eisen Alon , Cannon Christopher P. , Braunwald Eugene , Steen Dylan L. , Zhou Jing , Goodrich Erica L. , Im KyungAh , Dalby Anthony J. , Spinar Jindrich , Daga Shruti , Lukas Mary Ann , O'Donoghue Michelle L.
Published: January 2017

Background

High‐potency statins reduce cardiovascular events after acute coronary syndromes but remain underused in clinical practice. We examined predictors of nonuse of high‐potency statins after acute coronary syndromes.

Methods and Results

The Stabilization of pLaques usIng Darapladib‐Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (SOLID‐TIMI 52) trial enrolled patients after an acute coronary syndrome in 36 countries between 2009 and 2011. Statin use was strongly encouraged throughout the trial, and statin potency was at the discretion of the treating physician. A high‐potency statin was defined as ≥40 mg atorvastatin, ≥20 mg rosuvastatin, or 80 mg simvastatin daily. Predictors of nonuse of high‐potency statins were examined using logistic regression. Of the patients included (n=12 446), 11 850 (95.2%) were treated with a statin at baseline after acute coronary syndrome (median 14 days), but only 5212 (41.9%) were on a high‐potency statin. Selected patient factors associated with nonuse of high‐potency statins included age ≥75 years (odds ratio 1.39, 95%
CI
1.24–1.56), female sex (odds ratio 1.11, 95%
CI
1.02–1.22), renal dysfunction (odds ratio 1.17, 95%
CI
1.03–1.32), and heart failure during hospital admission (odds ratio 1.43, 95%
CI
1.27–1.62). At 3 months after baseline, only 49% of patients had low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <70 mg/dL. Among the 5490 patients (59%) who were not on a high‐potency statin at 3 months, lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was a predictor of nonuse of a high‐potency statin after a median of 2.3 years (odds ratio 1.15 for 10 mg/dL decrease, 95%
CI
1.11–1.19).

Conclusion

Despite the widespread use of statins after acute coronary syndromes, most patients are not treated with high‐potency statins early and late after the event, including patients at the highest risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01000727.
Neutrality as Identity? Finland's Quest for Security in the Cold War
Authors: Aunesluoma Juhana , Rainio-Niemi Johanna
Published: January 2017

This article examines Finland's Cold War neutrality, highlighting its political and ideational dimensions. In contrast to other scholars who have stressed the pragmatic realpolitik considerations behind Finnish policymaking, the article demonstrates that political and ideological considerations were at least as important in shaping Finnish Cold War neutrality. The ideological and political identity dimensions are connected to the strong national consensus that lay behind Finnish neutrality policy and its wide, sustained public support. Paying attention to these dimensions helps us also to understand continuities in Finnish foreign and security policy that have continued into the post–Cold War period. The continuities of Cold War–era neutrality formulations are illustrated by a discussion of Finnish foreign policymaking in the final phase of the Cold War and the early 1990s.
Seven new species of Grania (Annelida: Clitellata: Enchytraeidae) from New Caledonia, South Pacific Ocean
Authors: DE WIT PIERRE , Erseus CHRISTER
Published: January 2017

In meiofauna of the intertidal and subtidal zones (to 20 m depth) of New Caledonia seven species of the marine enchytraeid genus Grania were found, all of which were previously undescribed: G. novacaledonia sp.n., G. cinctura sp. n., G. galbina sp. n., G. curta sp. n., G. fustata sp. n., G. papillata sp. n. and G. fiscellata sp. n. On the basis of morphology, these new species seem to have a phylogenetic affinity to congeners in Australia and possibly Antarctica, although little is known about the enchytraeid fauna of the surrounding areas.
Global Influence of Tropical Pacific Variability with Implications for Global Warming Slowdown
Authors: Wang Chuan-Yang , Xie Shang-Ping , Kosaka Yu , Liu Qinyu , Zheng Xiao-Tong
Published: January 2017

The impact of internal tropical Pacific variability on global mean surface temperature (GMST) is quantified using a multimodel ensemble. A tropical Pacific index (TPI) is defined to track tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) variability. The simulated GMST is highly correlated with TPI on the interannual time scale but this correlation weakens on the decadal time scale. The time-scale dependency is such that the GMST regression equation derived from the observations, which are dominated by interannual variability, would underestimate the magnitude of decadal GMST response to tropical Pacific variability. The surface air temperature response to tropical Pacific variability is strong in the tropics but weakens in the extratropics. The regression coefficient of GMST against TPI shows considerable intermodel variations, primarily because of differences in high latitudes. The results have important implications for the planned intercomparison of pacemaker experiments that force Pacific variability to follow the observed evolution. The model dependency of the GMST regression suggests that in pacemaker experiments—model performance in simulating the recent “slowdown” in global warming—will vary substantially among models. It also highlights the need to develop observational constraints and to quantify the TPI effect on the decadal variability of GMST.

Compared to GMST, the correlation between global mean tropospheric temperature and TPI is high on both interannual and decadal time scales because of a common structure in the tropical tropospheric temperature response that is upward amplified and meridionally broad.
Staggered-PRT Sequences for Doppler Weather Radars. Part II: Ground Clutter Mitigation on the NEXRAD Network Using the CLEAN-AP Filter
Authors: Warde David A. , Torres Sebastián M.
Published: January 2017

The staggered–pulse repetition time (SPRT) technique has been shown to be effective at mitigating range and velocity ambiguities; however, mitigation of ground clutter contamination for SPRT sequences has proven to be more challenging. Using the properties of the autocorrelation spectral density, the Clutter Environment Analysis using Adaptive Processing (CLEAN-AP) filter is extended to SPRT sequences for its implementation on the U.S. Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) network. The performance of the CLEAN-AP filter for SPRT sequences is characterized and illustrated with simulations and real data. The study shows that the proposed ground clutter filter meets NEXRAD operational performance requirements for ground clutter mitigation.
How to Make Local Context Matter in National Advice: Towards Adaptive Comanagement in Norwegian Climate Adaptation
Authors: Westskog Hege , Hovelsrud Grete K. , Sundqvist Göran
Published: January 2017

Drawing on case studies in 12 Norwegian municipalities, this paper investigates how local context matters for developing national climate adaptation policies that are applicable at the municipal level. Moreover, it explicates which factors constitute this context and how these factors vary across the case municipalities. National climate adaptation policy in Norway can currently be characterized as top down, providing standardized requirements and advice to municipalities. However, Norwegian municipalities vary greatly with respect to physical conditions, organizational resources, and societal needs. They are autonomous to a great extent and are almost solely responsible for developing climate policy and planning within their own territories. Therefore, municipalities adapt national policies to their own context, reflecting local physiographic, organizational, and resource challenges, but these local translations are not fully recognized by national and sectoral actors. This paper underscores that the significant variation in contextual factors between municipalities is not sufficiently addressed and understood by national and sectoral governmental authorities. With the identified variation of the contextual factors across the case municipalities, an adaptive comanagement strategy within a multilevel governance system is suggested as a suitable framework to ensure a proactive approach to local adaptation, that is, mutual understanding and better cooperation between the national and local levels.
The Absence of the Father
Authors: Kirshner Lewis A.
Published: January 2017

The author discusses the role of the father in early development through the concept of triangulation. Three male patients are presented who seemed to lack images and memories of their fathers and experienced them as absent, despite their physical presence during childhood. In these men, the oedipal phase appeared skewed and a dyadic relationship with the mother dominated the material. They reported a lack of a sense of masculinity and a phobic concern about the dangers of male violence, along with feelings of specialness and grandiosity. Analytic data suggested that the image of an absent father reflected a process akin to splitting of the ego, in which the significance of the father was disavowed and the patients fantasied a special role with their mothers; via projection, the fathers reappeared as dangerous intruders. It is proposed that this structure derives from a specific developmental situation in which a disturbed parental relationship has impaired the father's position as a “third” in the early triangle. The child's sexual and aggressive tensions cannot be contained in his fantasies of the couple and must be projected outside. The absent father returns in the transference, where the analyst is reexperienced as useless and absent and as a threat to the specialness of the dyad, thereby recapitulating the predicament of the child.
Acting up and Physical Illness: Temporal Patterns and Emerging Structure
Authors: Hull James W. , Okie Jean , Gibbons Beverly , Carpenter Daniel
Published: January 2017

Many psychoanalytic writers have viewed acting out and somatization as alternate routes for the discharge of uncontained aggressive impulses in borderline patients. In order to investigate this empirically, we tracked the occurrence of two related behaviors—acting up and physical illness—over the course of one patient's long-term hospitalization. Daily scores on these variables were analyzed using a time series procedure. Results indicated that as treatment progressed, acting up and physical illness became more synchronized, and this occurred just prior to symptom remission. Material from psychotherapy suggested that these behavioral changes were associated with the patient's increased ability to verbalize aggressive impulses in the context of fantasy and memory.
Recovering a Repressed Memory, and Representational Shift in an Adolescent
Authors: Szajnberg Nathan M.
Published: January 2017

This case report focuses on the disappearance of a fixed pictorial iconic representation and transformation to symbolic (word) representation following the recovery of a repressed memory in a twelve-and-a-half-year-old after the first eleven months of psychoanalysis. There is a substantial body of psychoanalytic literature on the importance of language, naming or articulation of experiences associated with transformation of psychic structure (Fenichel, 1941; Glover, 1955; Kris, 1956a, 1956b; Werner and Kaplan, 1963; Schafer, 1976, 1978a, 1978b, 1980; Shapiro, 1979; Spence, 1982; Stern, 1989) and a relatively autonomous literature on the communicative representational power of children's play or visual portrayals (Piaget, 1962; A. Freud, 1947; Klein, 1964; Axeline, 1947; Esman, 1983; Neubauer et al., 1987; Krall, 1989). To our knowledge, there is no report of the structural effect of the recovery of a repressed traumatic experience, in this case, with subsequent parental confirmation of the traumatic event.
Posterior Glottic Insufficiency in Children
Authors: Padia Reema , Smith Marshall E.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Dysphonia secondary to posterior glottic insufficiency (PGI) can be difficult to identify and correct. Inadequate arytenoid approximation from medial arytenoid erosion results in a breathy, soft voice. The anatomical location of the gap is difficult to correct by vocal fold injection laryngoplasty. This study reviews the presentation, evaluation, and treatment for pediatric patients who were identified with PGI.

Methods:

An Institutional Review Board–approved chart review was performed on all patients who were diagnosed with PGI at our institution from 2013 to 2015. We studied the presentation, workup, and treatment for these patients, including laryngoscopy, parent or patient-based voice impairment ratings, and response to treatment.

Results:

Seven patients were identified. Erosion of the medial arytenoid was identified on microlaryngoscopy for all of these patients. The patients had suboptimal improvement from injection laryngoplasty. Three patients underwent surgical correction with an endoscopic posterior cricoid reduction laryngoplasty (EPCRL) with significant improvement in voice, assessed by perceptual, laryngoscopic, and patient-based measures.

Conclusion:

The key diagnostic procedures to identify posterior glottic insufficiency include laryngoscopic findings of a posterior glottal gap, microlaryngoscopy with close inspection of the posterior glottis and medial arytenoids, and suboptimal response to injection laryngoplasty. The EPCRL is an effective procedure to treat dysphonia from PGI.
Issues in the Integration of Regular and Special Education: An Australian Perspective
Authors: Bain Alan
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this paper is to examine issues in the integration of Australian special education service delivery. Initiatives to combine regular and special education have become a focus of special education policy both in Australia and overseas in recent years. This trend will be examined from an Australian perspective. Problems associated with the implementation of integrated service delivery will be discussed and a rationale presented for the use of educational legislation as a basis for service delivery in an integrated system. The paper will also consider the viability of a legislative approach within the Australian legal constitutional framework.
Communication Roles of Languages in Multilingual Societies
Authors: Nida Eugene A. , Wonderly William L.
Published: January 2017

Communication Roles of Languages in Multilingual Societies is published in TBT because it offers translators some valuable insights in the understanding of the different functions which different languages perform within societies. Bible translators are increasingly asking themselves if the languages they work in might not be giving way to the pressures of some more widely used languages. Nida and Wonderly provide us with ways of assessing the various jobs competing languages are called on to perform. A careful study of this article should enable a translator to evaluate the faces of multilingualism more accurately and to assess the nature of a changing linguistic scene.

A shorter version of this article was first published in Language Use and Social Change: problems of multilingualism with special reference to Eastern Africa: studies presented and discussed at the ninth International African Seminar at University College, Dar es Salaam, 1968, edited, with an Introduction by W. H. Whiteley. London: Oxford University Press for International African Institute, 1971. Pp. vi, 406, £3.
Social Correlates of Nationalism
Authors: Boldt Menno
Published: January 2017

In the past two decades, numerous colonized racial-ethnic minorities within various national structures have initiated movements to achieve a larger measure of self-determination. Yet, we have little systematic information about the leaders of such internal colonies, their social background characteristics, or political goals. In this article I present data on selected social background factors and political goals of one such leadership group: native Indian leaders in Canada. My analysis identifies two patterns of social variables as influential in determining the political solutions that Indian leaders pursue in order to escape their colonial condition. The findings also indicate a high level of consensus among Canadian Indian leaders that their efforts should be directed at achieving increased self-determination.
Going for Brokers
Authors: Silver Harry
Published: January 2017

Local chiefs and headmen frequently bear the brunt of interhierachical conflict in African nations, resulting in severe intrarole tensions. Many theorists consider this the natural outcome of an inherent incompatibility between traditional and modern political structures, with both making conflicting demands upon local officials. This article supports an alternative position, arguing that dynamic interaction between these structures may actually promote political cohesion. A case study from Ashanti is presented documenting how, at the local level, new positions are created to perform traditional functions while long-established leadership roles are coopted in the service of modernization. These local innovations are further assessed in the context of their articulation with “state” and national systems over the past century. Results of this analysis show that: (1) in complex sociopolitical structures discrete systemic levels may respond differently to “common” external stimuli, and (2) effective political cohesion need not be achieved at the expense of ethnic integrity.
An Examination of the Most Recent Episode of Molly Use among College Students
Authors: Stamates Amy L. , Linden-Carmichael Ashley N. , Sheehan Brynn E. , Preonas Peter D. , Lau-Barraco Cathy
Published: January 2017

The current study examined event-level characteristics (e.g., contextual factors, risk behaviors) during the most recent episode of Molly use among a sample of college students who reported previously using Molly. Participants ( N = 151; 66.7% female) were drinkers aged 18 to 25 years. Data were collected from October to November 2014, February to April 2015, and September to November 2015. Participants completed measures regarding typical Molly use and items related to context and behaviors during their most recent episode of Molly use. Findings revealed that our sample most commonly reported using Molly earlier in the evening while hanging out with friends or at a party. In addition, sexual and other drug use behaviors commonly occurred when using Molly. Findings provide preliminary information in guiding future work exploring Molly use and potential substance-related issues associated with the context of when and how Molly is consumed.
Trends in Age Band-Specific Suicide Rates among Elderly People in England and Wales
Authors: Shah Ajit , Elanchenny Nalinie , Collinge Tara
Published: January 2017

Background

The elderly suicide rate in recent years in England and Wales has been declining for both sexes.

Method

Data on the various suicide variables were ascertained from the annually published mortality data for years 1985 to 1998. Trends in the age band-specific elderly suicide rates in recent years were examined using this data.

Results

The main findings of this study were: (i) there was a decline in the ‘pure’ and ‘combined’ suicide rates, for both sexes, for the four five-year age bands between 65 and 85 years, but not for the older age groups; and (ii) for all age bands, male suicide rates were higher than female suicide rates.

Conclusions

The challenge now is to facilitate decline in suicide rates in the very old given that demographic changes imply more people in that age group and absence of current evidence of decline in the very old age bands.
The Effects of Litigation on Symptom Expression: A Prospective Study following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Feinstein Anthony , Ouchterlony Donna , Somerville Joe , Jardine Alison
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To prospectively assess the association between litigation and neurobehavioural symptoms following mild Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Design:

A prospective study with the inception cohort assessed on average 42.2(17.2) days after injury.

Setting:

an outpatient clinic within a large general hospital.

Patients:

a consecutive sample of 100 clinic attendee with mild TBI.

Outcome measures:

A cognitive screen (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test (GOAT), a measure of psychological distress (the 28 item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)) and two head injury outcome measures, the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) and the Rivermead Head Injury Follow-up Questionnaire (RHFUQ).

Results:

Demographic characteristics, TBI severity ratings and premorbid risk factors for poor outcome did not differ between litigants (27.8 per cent of the sample) and non-litigants. However, litigants were significantly more anxious (p<0.0001), depressed (p<0.01), had greater social dysfunction (p<0.0001) and had poorer outcome on the GOS (p<0.002) and RHFUQ (p<0.002). There were no cognitive differences between the groups.

Conclusions

the data demonstrate an association between litigation and increased psychological distress at the outset of the litigation process. While association is not synonymous with causality, the absence of demographic, premorbid and TBI related differences between litigants and non-litigants suggests that the pursuit of compensation may influence the subjective expression of symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury.
Men Who Commit Statutory Rape: How are They Different from other Rapists?
Authors: Lim Leslie EC , Gwee Kok-Peng , Woo Matthew
Published: January 2017

From an original cohort of 63 rapists serving prison sentences for rape in Singapore, two subgroups were identified, one subgroup who raped females 14 years and younger (an offence that is termed ‘statutory rape’ or ‘SR’) and another who raped females 14 years and above (which we term ‘non-statutory rape’ or ‘NSR’). The two subgroups were compared across a broad range of variables. Those who committed SR tended to be older, married, Malay men who were more likely to commit rape in their home or in the home of their victims, and who rated the quality of their sexual relationships more unfavourably than the NSRs.

The NSRs were more likely to be single men but with concurrent relationships with different females. NSRs were more likely to report dysfunctional family backgrounds, early conduct problems and were more likely to rape their victims outdoors and late into the night. Although in both subgroups the majority of the victims were known to the rapists, relatives (i.e. step-daughters or daughters) were by far the most common victims of the SR rapists.
Fatal Head Trauma from Tree Related Injuries
Authors: Escoffery Carlos T , Shirley Suzanne E
Published: January 2017

Two cases of death following tree related injuries are presented. Two females, an elderly woman and a child, suffered severe head trauma from falling objects from trees — a falling coconut and a falling branch respectively. Although this mode of injury has been previously documented, there have been no prior reports of in-hospital deaths in such patients. This uncommon cause of death is reviewed and recommendations made concerning its prevention.
Acute Psychosis Due to the Interaction of Legal Compounds — Ephedra Alkaloids in ‘Vigueur Fit’ Tablets, Caffeine in ‘Red Bull’ and Alcohol
Authors: Tormey W P , Bruzzi A
Published: January 2017

A short-lasting episode of acute psychosis in a 32-year-old male which followed the consumption of alcohol, caffeine and ‘vigueur fit’ tablets containing ephedra alkaloids is reported. Less than two days after the event, a urine sample contained 22 μg/ml of ephedrine and 5 μg/ml of pseudoephedrine. Despite detailed pharmacological evidence being given at a jury trial, he was convicted of assault and trespass and was fined £16,000. An earlier incident involving misbehaviour on an aircraft again involving alcohol and ephedrine resulted in a conviction and a court order to provide twice weekly urine tests for alcohol for a period of six months. He stopped taking the alkaloid tablets after the second incident. There was no history of aberrant behaviour in this man outwith the period when taking these tablets. Ephedra alkaloids may cause psychosis and their effects can be exaggerated by interaction with caffeine and ethanol. To protect the public, the use of stimulant drugs in over-the-counter weight control programmes should be prescription only and the package insert should include a warning on the dangers of concomitant use of ethanol.
The Patterns of Injury from Humane Killers
Authors: Hunt A. C. , Kon Vanda M.
Published: January 2017

A humane killer will kill a man as effectively as it will an animal and in the past few years we have seen two cases of suicide by the use of animal slaughtering pistols. The first case was obviously one of suicide from the outset of the police investigation, but the second was thought to be one of murder until the pattern of the injuries revealed the nature of the weapon. This emphasised the importance of a knowledge of the marks produced by various animal slaughtering guns and of the value of a collection of such marks and of the shape and dimensions of the muzzles.
Child Pedestrian Casualties as a Public Health Problem
Authors: Havard J. D. J.
Published: January 2017

The importance to public health authorities of the mortality and morbidity from child pedestrian accidents is reviewed and attention is drawn to the inadequate state of the available information on morbidity from such accidents. The need to improve the existing statistics is emphasized and the contribution which can be made by epidemiological studies is discussed in the light of the available evidence concerning the human and environmental factors influencing the risk of mortality and morbidity from such accidents.

Attention is drawn to the need for public health authorities to become more actively involved in the prevention and control of child pedestrian accidents. The importance of countermeasures being based on proven epidemiological studies is emphasized and it is suggested that countermeasures should be subjected to the same degree of preparation and evaluation as is accorded by public health authorities to other high-risk groups in the population.
Sudden Natural Death ‘At the Wheel’—Revisited
Authors: Copeland Arthur R.
Published: January 2017

A study of sudden natural death occurring in a motor vehicle was performed on the case files of the Office of the Medical Examiner of Metropolitan Dade County in Miami, Florida, during the years 1980–84. A total of 133 autopsied cases were collected and analysed as to the age, race, sex, cause of death, blood alcohol content, height, weight, heart weight, heart histology, severity of coronary artery disease, past medical history, medication, role of the occupant, time of occurrence, and scene circumstances. Essentially, the ‘natural death at the wheel’ of the 1980s involves an older (greater than age 55 years) white male who dies from atherosclerotic heart disease (occlusive coronary artery disease). He is most commonly sober at the time of the incident, which most frequently is the afternoon or evening. The deceased usually was the driver who either ‘veered off’ and crashed the vehicle into an object or was found ‘collapsed’ in the vehicle. ‘Veering off’ the road without a crash occurred less frequently. Most victims had a pre-existent medical condition but were without medication. At autopsy the heart weights (average 533.5 gm) were enlarged and severe coronary artery disease was present. A discussion ensues comparing these findings with other studies.
Congenital Absence of the Left Vertebral Artery with Traumatic Thrombosis of the Right Artery
Authors: Franks A. J. , Hiss J. , Sivaloganathan S.
Published: January 2017

This article contains a report and discussion of a case of cerebral infarction due to traumatic vertebral artery thrombosis associated with congenital absence of the other vertebral artery. The injury was sustained during a game of rugby football.
7. A Fatal Case of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Authors: Lannas P A , Pachar J V
Published: January 2017

A fatal case of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) affecting a middle-aged woman is presented. Most of the signs and symptoms described for NMS were present and death occurred three hours after the onset of hyperpyrexia. Laboratory and postmortem findings were non-specific. The uses and risks of Haloperidol and Phenelzine on a patient with severe liver impairment are considered. Finally, the medico-legal implications in the context of sudden unexpected death are mentioned.