bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion in Takayasu’s Arteritis as the First Presentation of the Disease
Authors: Guclu Hande , Gurlu Vuslat Pelitli , Ozal Sadık Altan , Guclu Orkut
Published: October 2016

Takayasu’s arteritis (TA) is a chronic inflammatory granulomatous vasculitis which affects large and medium arterial vessels. The disease involves especially subclavian arteries and aortic branches but it can consist of any arteries. The major pathology is granulomatous panarteritis with intima proliferation and defects of the elastic lamina of the vessels. We present a case of central retinal artery occlusion in TA as the first presentation of the disease. To the best of our knowledge, the present case is the first case that demonstrates central retinal artery occlusion as an initial manifestation in TA. A 48-year-old woman was admitted to our clinic with the complaint of sudden and painless vision loss in her right eye for one day. Although retinal artery involvement is a very rare presentation in TA, it is important to recall TA particularly in young patients with retinal artery occlusion.
GPA-MDS: A Visualization Approach to Investigate Genetic Architecture among Phenotypes Using GWAS Results
Authors: Wei Wei , Ramos Paula S. , Hunt Kelly J. , Wolf Bethany J. , Hardiman Gary , Chung Dongjun
Published: October 2016

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified tens of thousands of genetic variants associated with hundreds of phenotypes and diseases, which have provided clinical and medical benefits to patients with novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Recently, there has been accumulating evidence suggesting that different complex traits share a common risk basis, namely, pleiotropy. Previously, a statistical method, namely, GPA (Genetic analysis incorporating Pleiotropy and Annotation), was developed to improve identification of risk variants and to investigate pleiotropic structure through a joint analysis of multiple GWAS datasets. While GPA provides a statistically rigorous framework to evaluate pleiotropy between phenotypes, it is still not trivial to investigate genetic relationships among a large number of phenotypes using the GPA framework. In order to address this challenge, in this paper, we propose a novel approach, GPA-MDS, to visualize genetic relationships among phenotypes using the GPA algorithm and multidimensional scaling (MDS). This tool will help researchers to investigate common etiology among diseases, which can potentially lead to development of common treatments across diseases. We evaluate the proposed GPA-MDS framework using a simulation study and apply it to jointly analyze GWAS datasets examining 18 unique phenotypes, which helps reveal the shared genetic architecture of these phenotypes.
Retreatment with Bendamustine-Bortezomib-Dexamethasone in a Patient with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Cerchione Claudio , Nappi Davide , Di Perna Maria , Zacheo Irene , Pareto Anna Emanuele , Picardi Marco , Catalano Lucio , Pane Fabrizio
Published: October 2016

The clinical management of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma and the correct choice of the most suitable therapy in heavily pretreated and fragile patients are tough clinical issues for clinicians. In advanced phases of disease, the choice of available therapies becomes very poor, and the retreatment with previously adopted and effective therapy, although unpredictable, could be an effective option. In this report, we describe the clinical history of a patient, previously treated with 9 lines of therapy, refractory to bortezomib and IMIDs, for whom the retreatment with bendamustine resulted in a stable disease with good quality of life.
Identification of Novel Inhibitors against Coactivator Associated Arginine Methyltransferase 1 Based on Virtual Screening and Biological Assays
Authors: Ye Fei , Zhang Weiyao , Lu Wenchao , Xie Yiqian , Jiang Hao , Jin Jia , Luo Cheng
Published: October 2016

Overexpression of coactivator associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1), a protein arginine N-methyltransferase (PRMT) family enzyme, is associated with various diseases including cancers. Consequently, the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting PRMTs has significant value for both research and therapeutic purposes. In this study, together with structure-based virtual screening with biochemical assays, two compounds DC_C11 and DC_C66 were identified as novel inhibitors of CARM1. Cellular studies revealed that the two inhibitors are cell membrane permeable and effectively blocked proliferation of cancer cells including HELA, K562, and MCF7. We further predicted the binding mode of these inhibitors through molecular docking analysis, which indicated that the inhibitors competitively occupied the binding site of the substrate and destroyed the protein-protein interactions between CARM1 and its substrates. Overall, this study has shed light on the development of small-molecule CARM1 inhibitors with novel scaffolds.
Modeling the City Distribution System Reliability with Bayesian Networks to Identify Influence Factors
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhu Liyu , Xu Shensi
Published: October 2016

Under the increasingly uncertain economic environment, the research on the reliability of urban distribution system has great practical significance for the integration of logistics and supply chain resources. This paper summarizes the factors that affect the city logistics distribution system. Starting from the research of factors that influence the reliability of city distribution system, further construction of city distribution system reliability influence model is built based on Bayesian networks. The complex problem is simplified by using the sub-Bayesian network, and an example is analyzed. In the calculation process, we combined the traditional Bayesian algorithm and the Expectation Maximization (EM) algorithm, which made the Bayesian model able to lay a more accurate foundation. The results show that the Bayesian network can accurately reflect the dynamic relationship among the factors affecting the reliability of urban distribution system. Moreover, by changing the prior probability of the node of the cause, the correlation degree between the variables that affect the successful distribution can be calculated. The results have significant practical significance on improving the quality of distribution, the level of distribution, and the efficiency of enterprises.
A Comprehensive Review on Pharmacokinetic Profile of Some Traditional Chinese Medicines
Authors: Mehta Piyush , Dhapte Vividha
Published: October 2016

Herbal medicines are the oldest and most widely used form of treatment for welfare of mankind. Herbal medicines possess strong reputation as complementary treatment across the globe due to their easy accessibility and safety. Particularly traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are very popular due to their desirable therapeutic effects. They already have been proven for their remarkable potential in treatment of wide range of disease ailments. The major drawback in using herbal medicines is lack of standardisation aspects due to the complexity of chemical constituents. Pharmacokinetics study of such medicines helps forecast a range of events related to efficacy, safety, and toxicity profile of them. Apart from this, pharmacokinetics studies also recommended by various regulatory agencies during diverse stages of herbal drug development. Thus it is highly essential to have knowledge about the pharmacokinetic properties of any herbal drug. Thus it was thought that it will be worthwhile to compile the pharmacokinetic data of TCM which will be helpful for the researchers involved in further research on TCM. To portray entire picture about absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of some TCM, this well-designed scientific review covers the pharmacokinetic profile of 50 TCM available from 2003 and onwards.
CD63 Promotes Hemocyte-Mediated Phagocytosis in the Clam,Paphia undulata
Authors: Yu Mingjia , Yang Shanjun , Sun Hongxia , Xia Qiang
Published: October 2016

As one of the surface membrane proteins of tetraspanin family, CD63 plays a crucial role in cellular trafficking and endocytosis, which also is associated with activation of a wide variety of immune cells. Here, the homolog of CD63 was characterized from one marine mollusk,Paphia undulata, which is designated as Pu-CD63. The complete cDNA of Pu-CD63 is 1,738 bp in length with an open reading frame (ORF) of 849 bp, encoding a 282 amino acid protein with four putative hydrophobic transmembrane helixes. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that Pu-CD63 contains one putative YXXØ consensus motif of “110-YVII-113” and one N-glycosylation site “155-NGT-157” within the large extracellular loop (LEL) region, supporting its conserved function in plasma membrane and endosomal/lysosomal trafficking. Moreover, temporal expression profile analysis demonstrates a drastic induction in the expression of CD63 in hemocytes after pathogenic challenge with eitherV. parahaemolyticusorV. alginolyticus. By performing dsRNA-mediate RNAi knockdowns of CD63, a dramatic reduction in hemocytes phagocytic activity to pathogenicVibriois recorded by flow cytometry, revealing the definite role of Pu-CD63 in promoting hemocyte-mediated phagocytosis. Therefore, our work has greatly enhanced our understanding about primitive character of innate immunity in marine mollusk.
MIMO Techniques for Jamming Threat Suppression in Vehicular Networks
Authors: Kosmanos Dimitrios , Prodromou Nikolas , Argyriou Antonios , Maglaras Leandros A. , Janicke Helge
Published: October 2016

Vehicular ad hoc networks have emerged as a promising field of research and development, since they will be able to accommodate a variety of applications, ranging from infotainment to traffic management and road safety. A specific security-related concern that vehicular ad hoc networks face is how to keep communication alive in the presence of radio frequency jamming, especially during emergency situations. Multiple Input Multiple Output techniques are proven to be able to improve some crucial parameters of vehicular communications such as communication range and throughput. In this article, we investigate how Multiple Input Multiple Output techniques can be used in vehicular ad hoc networks as active defense mechanisms in order to avoid jamming threats. For this reason, a variation of spatial multiplexing is proposed, namely, vSP4, which achieves not only high throughput but also a stable diversity gain upon the interference of a malicious jammer.
Commercialization of Sago through Estate Plantation Scheme in Sarawak: The Way Forward
Authors: Mohamad Naim Hafizan , Yaakub Ahmad Nizar , Awang Hamdan Dayang Asmah
Published: October 2016

Sago has been hailed as a next viable commodity in Sarawak, Malaysia, given its potential as a versatile crop. Realising its potential, Sarawak state government has started initiatives to stimulate sago plantation from subsistence farming to estate plantation. The move of introducing sago estate plantation is a bold one considering that Malaysia is the first country introducing such plantation design. This is a reflection on sago estate plantation in the state of Sarawak. It is observed that, in order to ensure success of the plantation scheme, factors such as rigorous land consolidation programme aiming to maximize sago production; introduction of a modern planting method that integrates well with the traditional planting method; rigorous scientific research in finding the best sago variety that produces high yield; effective communication between related agencies and smallholders; and concentrated involvement of all actors, governmental agencies, mills, and smallholders, have to be addressed accordingly. To conclude, it is hoped that this writing can be utilized as part of a contribution to accelerating commercialization of sago as a next viable commodity crop not only in Sarawak but in Southeast Asia as a whole.
Corneal Aberrations, Contrast Sensitivity, and Light Distortion in Orthokeratology Patients: 1-Year Results
Authors: Santolaria-Sanz Elena , Cerviño Alejandro , González-Méijome José. M.
Published: October 2016

Purpose.To evaluate the corneal higher-order aberrations (HOA), contrast sensitivity function (CSF), and light distortion (LD) in patients undergoing orthokeratology (OK).Methods.Twenty healthy subjects (mean age:21.40±8years) with mean spherical equivalent refractive errorM=-2.19±0.97 D were evaluated at 1 day, 1 month, and 1 year after starting OK treatment. Monocular LD, photopic monocular CSF, and corneal HOA for 6 mm pupil size were measured.Results.LD showed an increase after the first night (p<0.05) and recovery to baseline after 1 month, remaining stable after 1 year (p>0.05). Spherical-like, coma-like, and secondary astigmatism HOA RMS increased significantly (p≤0.022) from baseline to 1-month visit, remaining unchanged over the follow-up. Contrast sensitivity for medium frequencies (3.0, 4.24, and 6.00 cpd) was significantly correlated with LD parameters at baseline (r≤-0.529,p<0.001). However, after 1 year of treatment, this correlation was only statistically significant for 12 cpd spatial frequency (r≤-0.565,p<0.001). Spherical-like RMS for 6 mm pupil size correlated with irregularity of the LD (r=-0.420,p<0.05) at the 1-year visit.Conclusion.LD experienced by OK patients recovers after one month of treatment and remains stable in the long term while optical aberrations remain significantly higher than baseline.
Adaptation and Feasibility Study of a Digital Health Program to Prevent Diabetes among Low-Income Patients: Results from a Partnership between a Digital Health Company and an Academic Research Team
Authors: Fontil Valy , McDermott Kelly , Tieu Lina , Rios Christina , Gibson Eliza , Sweet Cynthia Castro , Payne Mike , Lyles Courtney R.
Published: October 2016

Background. The feasibility of digital health programs to prevent and manage diabetes in low-income patients has not been adequately explored. Methods. Researchers collaborated with a digital health company to adapt a diabetes prevention program for low-income prediabetes patients at a large safety net clinic. We conducted focus groups to assess patient perspectives, revised lessons for improved readability and cultural relevance to low-income and Hispanic patients, conducted a feasibility study of the adapted program in English and Spanish speaking cohorts, and implemented real-time adaptations to the program for commercial use and for a larger trial of in multiple safety net clinics. Results. The majority of focus group participants were receptive to the program. We modified the curriculum to a 5th-grade reading level and adapted content based on patient feedback. In the feasibility study, 54% of eligible contacted patients expressed interest in enrolling (n=23). Although some participants’ computer access and literacy made registration challenging, they were highly satisfied and engaged (80% logged in at least once/week). Conclusions. Underserved prediabetic patients displayed high engagement and satisfaction with a digital diabetes prevention program despite lower digital literacy skills. The collaboration between researchers and a digital health company enabled iterative improvements in technology implementation to address challenges in low-income populations.
Plasma Membrane Targeting of Protocadherin 15 Is Regulated by the Golgi-Associated Chaperone Protein PIST
Authors: Nie Hongyun , Liu Yueyue , Yin Xiaolei , Cao Huiren , Wang Yanfei , Xiong Wei , Lin Yushuang , Xu Zhigang
Published: October 2016

Protocadherin 15 (PCDH15) is a core component of hair cell tip-links and crucial for proper function of inner ear hair cells. Mutations of PCDH15 gene cause syndromic and nonsyndromic hearing loss. At present, the regulatory mechanisms responsible for the intracellular transportation of PCDH15 largely remain unknown. Here we show that PIST, a Golgi-associated, PDZ domain-containing protein, interacts with PCDH15. The interaction is mediated by the PDZ domain of PIST and the C-terminal PDZ domain-binding interface (PBI) of PCDH15. Through this interaction, PIST retains PCDH15 in the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and reduces the membrane expression of PCDH15. We have previously showed that PIST regulates the membrane expression of another tip-link component, cadherin 23 (CDH23). Taken together, our finding suggests that PIST regulates the intracellular trafficking and membrane targeting of the tip-link proteins CDH23 and PCDH15.
Mean Daily Dosage of Aspirin and the Risk of Incident Alzheimer’s Dementia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Cheng-Wei , Horng Jorng-Tzong , Hsu Chi-Chang , Chen Jui-Ming
Published: October 2016

Background. Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients are known to have higher risk of developing dementia while aspirin use has been shown to prevent incident dementia. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential benefits of aspirin use on dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and identify the appropriate dosage of aspirin that provides the most benefit.Method. A Taiwan nationwide, population-based retrospective 8-year study was employed to analyze the association between the use of aspirin and incidence of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease and non-Alzheimer’s dementia using multivariate Cox-proportional hazards regression model and adjusting for several potential confounders.Results. Regular aspirin use in mean daily dosage of within 40 mg was associated with a decreased risk of developing incident Alzheimer’s dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (adjusted HR of 0.51 with 95% CI of 0.27–0.97,pvalue 0.041).Conclusion. A mean daily dosage of aspirin use within 40 mg might decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Climate Change Impact: The Experience of the Coastal Areas of Bangladesh Affected by Cyclones Sidr and Aila
Authors: Kabir Russell , Khan Hafiz T. A. , Ball Emma , Caldwell Kay
Published: October 2016

Bangladesh is considered one of the countries most at risk to the effects of climate change and its coastal area is most vulnerable. This study tries to explore the experiences of cyclones Sidr and Aila affected people living in the coastal areas of Bangladesh. This study was conducted in the cyclone Sidr affected Amtali Upazila of Barguna District and in the cyclone Aila affected Koyra Upazila of Khulna District. Primary data collection was done using Focus Group Interview and then a thematic analysis approach was used for analysis. Three core themes emerged from the analysis and they are, firstly, impacts of climate change on the socioeconomic condition of the people, secondly, the impact on the health status of the population, and finally the impact on vulnerable people. Findings show that the effects of climate change have serious consequences on the livelihood patterns of the affected population and on their overall health status. As a result, the unfavorable health condition of these affected people makes them more vulnerable to various emerging diseases.
Seasonal Variation in Group Size Is Related to Seasonal Variation in Neuropeptide Receptor Density
Authors: Wilson Leah C. , Goodson James L. , Kingsbury Marcy A.
Published: October 2016

In many species, seasonal variation in grouping behavior is widespread, with shifts towards territoriality in the breeding season and grouping in the winter. Compared to the hormonal and neural mechanisms of seasonal territorial aggression, the mechanisms that promote seasonal grouping have received little attention. We collected brains in spring and winter from wild-caught males of two species of emberizid sparrows that seasonally flock (the field sparrow, Spizella pusilla, and the dark-eyed junco, Junco hyemalis) and two species that do not seasonally flock (the song sparrow, Melospiza melodia, and the eastern towhee, Pipilo erythrophthalmus). We used receptor autoradiography to quantify seasonal plasticity in available binding sites for three neuropeptides known to influence social behavior. We examined binding sites for 125I-vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), 125I-sauvagine (SG, a ligand for corticotropin-releasing hormone receptors) and 125I-ornithine vasotocin analog (OVTA, a ligand for the VT3 nonapeptide). For all species and ligands, brain areas that exhibited a seasonal pattern in binding density were characterized by a winter increase. Compared to nonflocking species, seasonally flocking species showed different binding patterns in multiple brain areas. Furthermore, we found that winter flocking was associated with elevated winter 125I-VIP binding density in the medial amygdala, as well as 125I-VIP and 125I-OVTA binding density in the rostral arcopallium. While the functional significance of the avian rostral arcopallium is unclear, it may incorporate parts of the pallial amygdala. Our results point to this previously undescribed area as a likely hot spot of social modulation.
Association between Type, Amount, and Pattern of Carbohydrate Consumption with Dental Caries in 12-Year-Olds in Puerto Rico
Authors: Palacios Cristina , Rivas-Tumanyan Sona , Morou-Bermúdez Evangelia , Colon Alina M. , Torres Roxana Y. , Elías-Boneta Augusto R.
Published: October 2016

Objective: To identify the types, food sources, and pattern of carbohydrates that significantly contribute to dental caries in Puerto Rican children. Methods: As part of an island-wide cross-sectional oral health study in 1,587 twelve-year-olds, diet intake was assessed in a representative subset (n = 801) with a 24-hour dietary recall. Carbohydrate intake was quantified using a computer-based diet analysis program. Caries was assessed using the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research diagnostic criteria. Odds ratios were used to associate carbohydrate intake quartiles with caries, after controlling for important confounders. Results: A total of 723 subjects had complete data. Most were females (54%) and attended public schools (77%). The caries prevalence was 33%. The highest quartile intake for the following sugars significantly increased the odds of caries compared to the lowest quartile: total carbohydrates (OR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.08-3.46), total sugars (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.01-351), sucrose (OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.13-3.70), fructose (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.05-3.62), and inositol (OR = 2.52, 95% CI = 1.38-4.63). The main food sources of these sugars were juices, including natural juices with no added sugars, and sweetened beverages. The odds of caries also increased significantly in children whose 10% of total energy intake was from total sugars (OR = 3.76, 95% CI = 1.03-13.7). Conclusion: After adjusting for important caries risk factors, total carbohydrates, total sugars, ≥10% kilocaloric energy from total sugars, and sucrose, fructose, and inositol intake significantly increased caries risk. Our findings can help raise awareness about the potential caries risk from the main sources of these sugars, natural fruit juices and sweetened beverages, which are consumed in great quantities in many societies.
Association of Neuropeptide Y Gene rs16147 Polymorphism with Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Adipokines, and Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Obesity
Authors: de Luis Daniel Antonio , Izaola Olatz , de la Fuente Beatriz , Primo David , Aller Rocio
Published: October 2016

Background and Aims: The NPY gene has 4 exons, and it is located at 7p15.1. The main genetic variant described in this gene is rs16147. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of NPY rs16147 with body weight, insulin resistance, serum adipokine levels, and risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: A population of 1,005 obese patients was analyzed in a cross-sectional survey. Weight, fat mass, waist circumference, blood pressure, basal glucose, C-reactive protein, insulin, insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]), lipid profile, and adipocytokine (leptin, adiponectin, and resistin) levels were measured. The genotype of the NPY gene polymorphism (rs16147) was studied. Results: Body mass index (1.0 ± 0.1; p < 0.05), weight (2.8 ± 0.4 kg; p < 0.05), fat mass (1.8 ± 0.3 kg; p < 0.05), waist circumference (1.9 ± 0.2 cm; p < 0.05), leptin level (15.4 ± 8.2 ng/mL; p < 0.05), insulin level (5.1 ± 1.3 mIU/L; p < 0.05), and HOMA-IR (1.4 ± 0.1 units; p < 0.05) were lower in A allele carriers than in non-A allele carriers in males. Males with an A allele had a lower percentage of MetS (54.8 vs. 69.1%; p < 0.05), central obesity (94.5 vs. 100%; p < 0.05), and hyperglycemia (24.7 vs. 33.8%; p < 0.05) than non-A allele carriers. Logistic regression analysis indicated that male non-A allele carriers had an increased risk of MetS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.17-1.83; p = 0.034), an increased risk of central obesity (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.02-1.11; p = 0.044), and an increased risk of hyperglycemia (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.09-1.79; p = 0.028) after adjusting for age. Conclusions: In obese males, the rs164147 polymorphism of the NPY gene is associated with leptin, insulin level, HOMA-IR, and an increased risk of MetS and its related phenotypes, such as central obesity and hyperglycemia.
Impact of chronic kidney disease on platelet P2Y12 receptor signalling in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rollini Fabiana , Cho Jung , DeGroat Christopher , Bhatti Mona , Alobaidi Zeina , Ferrante Elisabetta , Jakubowski Joseph A. , Sugidachi Atsuhiro , Zenni Martin M. , Bass Theodore A. , Engwenyu Lydia R. , Franchi Francesco , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: October 2016

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.
Problematic alcohol and tobacco use among healthcare professionals
Authors: Reisdorfer Emilene , Delziovo Carmem Regina , Gherardi-Donato Edilaine Cristina da Silva , Moretti-Pires Rodrigo Otávio
Published: October 2016

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a prevalência e características do uso problemático de álcool e tabaco entre profissionais de saúde atuantes na Estratégia de Saúde da Família. Foi realizado um estudo transversal com profissionais de saúde do Alto Uruguai Catarinense, Santa Catarina, Brasil. As variáveis dependentes foram o uso problemático de álcool e o uso de tabaco e as variáveis independentes foram as características sociodemográficas, socioeconômicas e condições de saúde. Observou-se que 6,2% apresentavam uso problemático de álcool e 8,5% usavam tabaco. Torna-se essencial que os serviços de saúde estruturem políticas e ações específicas o desenvolvimento de estratégias de prevenção e tratamento específicos para este grupo de profissionais, aumentando a qualidade dos serviços prestados aos usuários neste nível de atenção
Prognostic Importance of C‐Reactive Protein in High Cardiovascular Risk Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Rio de Janeiro Type 2 Diabetes Cohort Study
Authors: Cardoso Claudia R. L. , Leite Nathalie C. , Salles Gil F.
Published: October 2016

Background

The prognostic value of C‐reactive protein (
CRP
) is controversial in type 2 diabetes mellitus. We aimed to assess it in a cohort of high cardiovascular risk diabetic patients.

Methods and Results

CRP
was measured at baseline and during the second year of follow‐up in 616 patients. The primary end points were a composite of total fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events (
CVE
s), major
CVE
s, and all‐cause and cardiovascular mortalities. Association between baseline and second‐year
CRP
with end points were evaluated by multivariable Cox survival analyses. Baseline median
CRP
was 2.8 mg/L (interquartile range: 1.2–6.0 mg/L), and 47.8% of the patients either increased or persisted with high
CRP
levels during the first 2 years of follow‐up. After a median follow‐up of 8.4 years, 131 total
CVE
s occurred (89 major
CVE
s), and 129 patients died (53 of cardiovascular causes). Baseline and second‐year
CRP
, analyzed as a continuous variable and dichotomized at >3.0 mg/L, were significantly associated with total and major
CVE
s occurrence (with adjusted hazard ratios between 1.22 and 1.34 for increments of 1‐
SD
log of continuous
CRP
, and between 1.47 and 1.89 for dichotomized
CRP
), but not with mortality. Additionally, increasing
CRP
levels or persisting with high levels were associated with a 1.84 (95%
CI
: 1.10–3.06) excess risk of major
CVE
s, independent of baseline
CRP
values.

Conclusions

Baseline and serial changes in
CRP
levels provide cardiovascular risk prediction independent of standard risk factors and glycemic control, and may be useful to refine cardiovascular risk stratification in high‐risk patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Art Periodicals and Contemporary Art Worlds (Part I): A Historical Exploration
Authors: Allen Gwen L.
Published: October 2016

This essay explores the role of art periodicals in art worlds past and present. It examines the histories of Artforum and October within the context of the North American art world of the 1960s and 1970, and contextualizes these publications within a larger field of publishing practices, including self-published Salon pamphlets, little magazines, and artists' periodicals. It explores how the distribution form of the periodical affects the politics of art criticism, and considers how art magazines have served as sites of critical publicity, mediating publics and counterpublics within the art world. It also reflects on the role of magazines and newer online media in the contemporary, globalized art world.
Lotus Notes
Authors: Ghouse Nida
Published: October 2016

Lotus was a tri-lingual quarterly brought out by the Afro-Asian Writers' Association. Initially titled Afro-Asian Writings, its inaugural edition was launched from Cairo in March 1968, in Arabic and English, followed by the French. By 1971, the trilingual quarterly acquired the name Lotus. Egypt, the Soviet Union, and the German Democratic Republic funded its production. The Arabic edition was printed in Cairo, and the English and French editions were printed in the German Democratic Republic. The Afro-Asian Writers' Association (AAWA) and its over-arching affiliate, the Afro-Asian People's Solidarity Organization (AAPSO), both had headquarters in Cairo. In 1978, President Anwar Sadat signed the Camp David Accords and the Permanent Bureau in Cairo was deactivated. Lotus moved to Beirut despite the raging Civil War, where it was was granted home and hospitality by the Union of Palestinian Writers. Its offices remained there until the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982 when it once again relocated along with the Palestinian Liberation Organization to Tunis. The journal was discontinued in the late 1980s or early 1990s with the dismantling of the Soviet Union. The Permanent Bureau in Cairo was reinstated, but the journal was not as such reactivated. The project outlines a partial biography of a forgotten magazine from a bipolar world and its interrupted historical networks. It considers graphic and textual elements from the margins of the magazine for evidence of its trajectory.
International Responsibility, Protection and Displacement: Exploring the Connections between r2p, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons
Authors: Ferris Elizabeth
Published: October 2016

The emergence of the Responsibility to Protect (r2p) doctrine is part of a universal longing to prevent atrocities and to protect those affected by them. While its origins are quite distinct from international humanitarian principles, its links with humanitarian issues are clear. In fact, r2p emerged in response to humanitarian tragedies. This article traces the intersection of r2p and protection frameworks for refugees and internally displaced persons (idps), recognizing the important differences between them. r2p focuses on prevention, response and rebuilding – the first two tasks of which are inherently political. Conflicts cannot be prevented or resolved without engaging in political action of one kind or another. Responding to atrocities requires taking sides. Normative frameworks on refugees and idps, on the other hand, are based on the principle that people are to be assisted and protected on the basis of need alone and that humanitarian action is non-political in nature.
The Human Rights Obligations of un Peacekeepers
Authors: Foley Conor
Published: October 2016

Over 100,000 un peacekeeping personnel are deployed on missions with authority from the Security Council, under Chapter vii of the un Charter, to use force to protect civilians. Nevertheless, they have repeatedly failed to do so and yet there does not appear to be a single case where the un has taken disciplinary action against senior staff for failing to act in line with a mission mandate in this regard. This article argues that the ´positive´ and ´negative´ obligations of international human rights law, protecting the right to life and physical integrity, provide the most appropriate guidance to the tactical use of force by un peacekeeping soldiers. Mechanisms also need to be created to improve the accountability of un missions to those that they are responsible for protecting.
Description of larvae of genera Stenelmis, Ordobrevia and Nomuraelmis (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Elminae) of Japan with their molecular taxonomy
Authors: HAYASHI MASAKAZU , KAMITE YUUKI , KOBAYASHI TAKUYA , SOTA TEIJI
Published: October 2016

Larvae of 10 elmid species of the genera Stenelmis, Ordobrevia and Nomuraelmis were described based on SEM observation. Of these, S. hisamatsui, S. ishiharai, S. hayashii, O. amamiensis were described for the first time, and N. amamiensis was redescribed. The morphological types of the larvae corresponded to the monophyletic groups defined by the mitochondrial COI gene tree. A new key for larvae of all species from Japan with known larva is given. The larvae of the type species of Stenelmis and Ordobrevia are also described.
Nine new species of the Eremobates scaber species group of the North American camel spider genus Eremobates (Solifugae, Eremobatidae)
Authors: CUSHING PAULA E. , BROOKHART JACK O.
Published: October 2016

Nine new species of the Eremobates scaber species group of the solifuge genus Eremobates Banks 1900 are described, eight of them from Mexico. These new species are: E. axacoa, E. bonito, E. cyranoi, E. fisheri, E. hidalgoana, E. jaliscoana, E. minamoritaana, E. zacatecana, and E. zapal and together increase the size of this species group to 23. A key to all species in the E. scaber species group is also provided.
Taxonomic revision of Saffron-billed Sparrow Arremon flavirostris Swainson, 1838 (Aves: Passerellidae) with comments on its holotype and type locality
Authors: BUAINAIN NELSON , BRITO GUILHERME RENZO ROCHA , FIRME DANIEL HONORATO , FIGUEIRA DANIEL MONTEIRO , RAPOSO MARCOS A. , DE ASSIS CLAYDSON PINTO
Published: October 2016

The Saffron-billed Sparrow (Arremon flavirostris) complex occurs in the undergrowth of deciduous woodlands and forests from the Andes of Bolivia and northern Argentina to Paraguay and southern, mid-western and interior eastern Brazil. Currently four subspecies are recognized: A. f. flavirostris, A. f. polionotus, A. f. devillii and A. f. dorbignii. We review the taxonomy of this complex by analyzing coloration and morphometrics of a series of 234 skins, and by comparing 101 sound recordings. Our results suggest that under both the Phylogenetic and Biological Species Concept, three species should be recognized in this complex: A. flavirostris, A. polionotus and A. dorbignii. On the other hand, A. devillii should be considered a junior synonym of A. polionotus since these two have no constant differences in morphology and vocalization. These species are diagnosable by their coloration characters, but not by morphometrics. Vocalizations are useful in diagnosing A. flavirostris from A. dorbignii, but do not diagnose A. polionotus from the others. We show that part of the previous taxonomic confusion can be attributed to variation in back color of adult and immature A. polionotus. Finally, we comment on the recently located holotype of A. flavirostris, which was believed to be lost, and its type locality.
Cliona acephala (Porifera: Demospongiae: Clionaida), a new encrusting excavating reef sponge from the Colombian Caribbean belonging to the Cliona viridis species complex
Authors: ZEA SVEN , LÓPEZ-VICTORIA MATEO
Published: October 2016

Several groups of sponges are able to excavate galleries and tunnels in calcareous substrata such as limestone rock, shells, calcareous algae and coral skeletons. Within the genus Cliona, some species share the common traits of being brown to olive-green in color, and harboring photosynthetic, unicellular dinoflagellates (zooxanthellae). These Cliona spp. have been grouped as the Cliona viridis species complex. Several species of this complex completely encrust the excavated substratum with a thin veneer of tissue and, when colonizing dead exposed parts of live coral colonies, they are able to undermine or overgrow and thus kill live coral tissue as they advance predominantly laterally. In the course of our taxonomic and ecological studies of Caribbean brown to brown-black encrusting Cliona, we found an as yet undescribed species that stands out by having tylostyle megasclere spicules with narrow heads and lacking the usual microsclere spicule complement of spirasters. This species, named and described here Cliona acephala n. sp., has so far been found exclusively in the Santa Marta area, Caribbean coast of Colombia. Previous studies with ITS2 ribosomal DNA showed it to be genetically distinct from other Caribbean encrusting species belonging to the Cliona viridis species complex, vis. Cliona aprica, Cliona caribbaea, Cliona tenuis and Cliona varians, but making it genetically closer to Indo-Pacific Cliona orientalis. An intriguing possibility, to be addressed with further studies, is that C. acephala n. sp. may have been introduced to the Caribbean. However, until proved otherwise, we regard the material presently described as distinct.
Arctic Radiation-IceBridge Sea and Ice Experiment: The Arctic Radiant Energy System during the Critical Seasonal Ice Transition
Authors: Smith William L. , Hansen Christy , Bucholtz Anthony , Anderson Bruce E. , Beckley Matthew , Corbett Joseph G. , Cullather Richard I. , Hines Keith M. , Hofton Michelle , Kato Seiji , Lubin Dan , Moore Richard H. , Segal Rosenhaimer Michal , Redemann Jens , Schmidt Sebastian , Scott Ryan , Song Shi , Barrick John D. , Blair J. Bryan , Bromwich David H. , Brooks Colleen , Chen Gao , Cornejo Helen , Corr Chelsea A. , Ham Seung-Hee , Kittelman A. Scott , Knappmiller Scott , LeBlanc Samuel , Loeb Norman G. , Miller Colin , Nguyen Louis , Palikonda Rabindra , Rabine David , Reid Elizabeth A. , Richter-Menge Jacqueline A. , Pilewskie Peter , Shinozuka Yohei , Spangenberg Douglas , Stackhouse Paul , Taylor Patrick , Thornhill K. Lee , van Gilst David , Winstead Edward
Published: October 2016

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)’s Arctic Radiation-IceBridge Sea and Ice Experiment (ARISE) acquired unique aircraft data on atmospheric radiation and sea ice properties during the critical late summer to autumn sea ice minimum and commencement of refreezing. The C-130 aircraft flew 15 missions over the Beaufort Sea between 4 and 24 September 2014. ARISE deployed a shortwave and longwave broadband radiometer (BBR) system from the Naval Research Laboratory; a Solar Spectral Flux Radiometer (SSFR) from the University of Colorado Boulder; the Spectrometer for Sky-Scanning, Sun-Tracking Atmospheric Research (4STAR) from the NASA Ames Research Center; cloud microprobes from the NASA Langley Research Center; and the Land, Vegetation and Ice Sensor (LVIS) laser altimeter system from the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. These instruments sampled the radiant energy exchange between clouds and a variety of sea ice scenarios, including prior to and after refreezing began. The most critical and unique aspect of ARISE mission planning was to coordinate the flight tracks with NASA Cloud and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) satellite sensor observations in such a way that satellite sensor angular dependence models and derived top-of-atmosphere fluxes could be validated against the aircraft data over large gridbox domains of order 100–200 km. This was accomplished over open ocean, over the marginal ice zone (MIZ), and over a region of heavy sea ice concentration, in cloudy and clear skies. ARISE data will be valuable to the community for providing better interpretation of satellite energy budget measurements in the Arctic and for process studies involving ice–cloud–atmosphere energy exchange during the sea ice transition period.
Improvement of the Snow Depth in the Common Land Model by Coupling a Two-Dimensional Deterministic Ensemble Model with a Variational Hybrid Snow Cover Fraction Data Assimilation Scheme and a New Observation Operator
Authors: Xu Jianhui , Zhang Feifei , Shu Hong , Zhong Kaiwen
Published: October 2016

During snow cover fraction (SCF) data assimilation (DA), the simplified observation operator and presence of cloud cover cause large errors in the assimilation results. To reduce these errors, a new snow cover depletion curve (SDC), known as an observation operator in the DA system, is statistically fitted to in situ snow depth (SD) observations and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) SCF data from January 2004 to October 2008. Using this new SDC, a two-dimensional deterministic ensemble–variational hybrid DA (2DEnVar) method of integrating the deterministic ensemble Kalman filter (DEnKF) and a two-dimensional variational DA (2DVar) is proposed. The proposed 2DEnVar is then used to assimilate the MODIS SCF into the Common Land Model (CoLM) at five sites in the Altay region of China for data from November 2008 to March 2009. The analysis performance of the 2DEnVar is compared with that of the DEnKF. The results show that the 2DEnVar outperforms the DEnKF as it effectively reduces the bias and root-mean-square error during the snow accumulation and ablation periods at all sites except for the Qinghe site. In addition, the 2DEnVar, with more assimilated MODIS SCF observations, produces more innovations (observation minus forecast) than the DEnKF, with only one assimilated MODIS SCF observation. The problems of cloud cover and overestimation are addressed by the 2DEnVar.
Staggered-PRT Sequences for Doppler Weather Radars. Part I: Spectral Analysis Using the Autocorrelation Spectral Density
Authors: Torres Sebastián M. , Warde David A.
Published: October 2016

The autocorrelation spectral density (ASD) was introduced as a generalization of the classical periodogram-based power spectral density (PSD) and as an alternative tool for spectral analysis of uniformly sampled weather radar signals. In this paper, the ASD is applied to staggered pulse repetition time (PRT) sequences and is related to both the PSD and the ASD of the underlying uniform-PRT sequence. An unbiased autocorrelation estimator based on the ASD is introduced for use with staggered-PRT sequences when spectral processing is required. Finally, the strengths and limitations of the ASD for spectral analysis of staggered-PRT sequences are illustrated using simulated and real data.
The big picture unfolds: Using photovoice to study user participation in mental health services
Authors: Tang Jessica Pui-Shan , Tse Samson , Davidson Larry
Published: October 2016

Background:

User participation is advocated on the basis that consumers know their own needs better than anyone else. Photovoice is a participatory research method that empowers the grass-root population to give voice on concerned issues for eliciting social change.

Aim:

This study explores the experience and impact of user participation in mental health services (MHS) in Hong Kong through photovoice. It also examines the effects of this method in studying user participation.

Method:

In this qualitative inquiry, authors, two peer researchers and three participants were involved in the various stages of research design, data collection and data analysis. Participants took photos showing their perception and experiences of being involved in different MHS systems. They shared their narratives through these images and reflected on the participatory experience of photovoice.

Results:

User participation was experienced as a gradual process of assuming control that involved personal responsibility, connection with peers, collaboration with staff, redefinition of boundaries and social inclusion. Meaningful participation gave rise to a sense of contribution, interpersonal connection and self-worth and transformed one’s identity. Participants enjoyed the mutual interaction and derived benefit from the photovoice process. Issues such as consent and confidentiality arose in implementation.

Conclusion:

Participation entails partnership among service users, providers and peers. Photovoice opens up new space for unfolding expert knowledge. Further application of this participatory approach with the local community is suggested in order to develop person-centered care.
How Christ saves God’s face . . . and ours: A soteriology of honor and shame
Authors: Wu Jackson
Published: October 2016

Honor and shame are critical aspects of a biblical soteriology. In order to demonstrate the point, this article surveys three key doctrines—sin, atonement, and justification by faith. Shame is a subjective and objective reality. It is both the consequence and defining feature of sin. Within the context of a collectivistic covenant relationship, Christ pays the honor-debt owed by those who give their loyalty to him. In so doing, Christ not only glorifies his people; more importantly, he saves God’s face.
The other missional conversation: Making way for the neo-Anabaptist contribution to the missional movement in North America
Authors: Fitch David E.
Published: October 2016

This article explores the strengths and weaknesses of two of the dominant streams of missional practice in North American church: the GOCN/TMN group associated with Craig Van Gelder and Alan Roxburgh, and what I call the “missional evangelicals” led by Michael Frost and Alan Hirsch. I then propose a third stream in the neo-Anabaptists who comprise people like Stuart Murray, Shane Claiborne, and a host of other authors/leaders influenced by Hauerwas and Yoder and others. This article argues that this third stream is a necessary part of the conversation that fills in the gaps of Roxburgh/Van Gelder and Frost/Hirsch, and that the three together are necessary for the fleshing out of what mission looks like for the Protestant churches in North America.