bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of age and viscosity on food transport and breathing–swallowing coordination during eating of two‐phase food in nursing home residents
Authors: Yamada Tsuyoshi , Matsuo Koichiro , Izawa Masayuki , Yamada Shizuru , Masuda Yuji , Ogasawara Tadashi
Published: April 2017

Aim

When eating food that contains both liquid and solid phases, the liquid component frequently enters the hypopharynx before swallowing and can increase the risk of aspiration. Thus, we examined whether the initial viscosity of mixed consistency food could alter pre‐swallow food transport and breathing–swallowing coordination in older adults.

Methods

Fiberoptic endoscopy was recorded while 18 healthy young adults and 19 older adults ate 5 g of steamed rice combined with 3 mL of blue‐dye water. Liquid viscosity was set at three levels by the addition of a thickening agent (0 wt%, thin; 2 wt%, thicker; 4 wt%, higher‐viscosity, respectively). We measured the timing of swallow initiation and its corresponding respiratory phase for each participant.

Results

For thin mixed consistency food, whereas the timing of swallow initiation was comparable between young and older participants, swallowing was initiated during inspiration significantly more often in older participants (31.6 %) than in young participants (5.6 %). In contrast, the timing of swallow initiation was delayed in older participants for thicker and higher‐viscosity foods, although swallowing was commonly initiated during expiration in both groups.

Conclusions

In older adults, we observed that swallow initiation function was preserved for thin mixed consistency samples, but breathing–swallowing coupling was diminished. For higher‐viscosity foods, swallow initiation was delayed in this group, but breathing–swallowing coordination was not disturbed, probably as a result of the slow bolus flow into the hypopharynx. Thus, it appears the initial viscosity of mixed consistency food profoundly affects food transport before swallowing as well as breathing–swallowing coordination in nursing home residents. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2171–2177.
Factorial design to minimize residual oxygen in reaction hot‐pressed zirconium diboride
Authors: Neuman Eric , Fahrenholtz William , Hilmas Gregory
Published: April 2017

Processing parameters to minimize the residual oxygen content of ZrB2 ceramics prepared by reactive hot‐pressing were selected using statistical analysis. Additions of carbon and excess boron were used to react with oxygen present in the starting ZrH2 and B powders as an impurity. A 32 full‐factorial experimental design was used to determine the carbon and excess boron contents that minimized residual oxygen content in the final ZrB2 ceramic while also minimizing formation of any impurity phases. Carbon additions were effective at reducing the oxygen content, but resulted in the formation of residual ZrC. Boron additions were also effective at removing oxygen, but to a lesser extent compared to carbon. In addition to being more effective at removing oxygen, carbon additions also improved the densification behavior, whereas boron additions inhibited densification. The stoichiometric reaction resulted in a ZrB2 ceramic with a relative density of 99%, but that contained 6.9 vol% of (Zr1−x,Mgx)O2−x as a residual phase following reactive hot‐pressing. The composition with a carbon addition to starting oxygen content having a molar ratio of 1, and a boron to zirconium molar ratio of 2.1, resulted in a 95% dense ceramic with only 0.1 vol% of residual (Zr1−x,Mgx)O2−x and trace amounts of ZrC.
The Marriage and Family Therapy Practice Research Network (MFT‐PRN): Creating a More Perfect Union Between Practice and Research
Authors: Johnson Lee N. , Miller Richard B , Bradford Angela B. , Anderson Shayne R.
Published: April 2017

This article describes the Marriage and Family Therapy Practice Research Network (MFT‐PRN). TheMFT‐PRNis designed to build a professional community based on practice‐informed research and research‐informed practice, increase the diversity of participants inMFTresearch, and unify researchers and clinicians. Clinics choose measures from a list that best represent their clinic needs. Clients' outcomes are assessed regularly, and therapists receive immediate graphical feedback on how clients are progressing or digressing. Data are pooled to create a large and diverse database, while improving client outcomes. We will discuss advantages of theMFT‐PRNfor researchers, therapists, clients, and agencies, and provide one model that we hope will inform other collaborative clinical‐research models in the field of marriage and family therapy.

Video Abstract is found in the online version of the article.
The Mind and Heart of Resonance: The Role of Cognition and Emotions in Frame Effectiveness
Authors: Giorgi Simona
Published: April 2017

This article synthesizes the large and burgeoning literature on framing to unpack how frames achieve resonance with an audience. The analysis identifies two main resonance types: cognitive, based on an appeal to audiences’ beliefs and understandings, and emotional, based on an appeal to audiences’ feelings, passions, and aspirations. For each type, this paper delves into distinct mechanisms, applications, and outcomes to shed light on the complex bases for audiences’ reactions to framing and the factors that can hinder or favour resonance. Applications for this conceptualization of resonance and future venues of research are identified and discussed.
Role of upper gastrointestinal contrast studies for suspected malrotation in neonatal population
Authors: Birajdar Suresh , Rao Shripada C , Bettenay Fiona
Published: April 2017

Aim

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) contrast study is the preferred radiological investigation to diagnose malrotation of intestine. We aimed to review the role of UGI contrast in neonates (term and preterm) who were clinically suspected to have malrotation.

Methods

The study included a retrospective review of medical charts and radiology reports.

Results

A total of 164 newborn infants underwent UGI contrast study to rule out malrotation during the study period (2006–2015). Median gestational age at the time of presentation was 38 weeks (interquartile range: 35.5–39.6 weeks). Median age for clinical presentation was day 2 of life (interquartile range: 2–5 days). Out of the 164 contrast studies, 112 were normal, whereas 52 were reported to have malrotation. Of those 52 infants, 47 were confirmed to have malrotation on surgery (positive predictive value: 90). Of the 112 infants with normal UGI contrasts, nine infants underwent laparotomy for ongoing clinical symptoms out of which four infants were diagnosed to have malrotation on laparotomy. There were 22 infants born at gestational age <32 weeks, who underwent UGI contrast studies to rule out malrotation. Their clinical symptoms were similar to necrotising enterocolitis. Of 22 preterm contrast studies, six were reported to have malrotation; of these, five had surgically confirmed malrotation. No complications related to the contrast study were noted in both term and preterm infants.

Conclusion

Current study reaffirms the role of UGI contrast study as the investigation of choice for diagnosis of malrotation, in both term and preterm infants. UGI contrast is safe and well tolerated even in preterm infants.
Adaptation to novel foreign-accented speech and retention of benefit following training: Influence of aging and hearing loss
Authors: Bieber Rebecca E. , Gordon-Salant Sandra
Published: April 2017

Adaptation to speech with a foreign accent is possible through prior exposure to talkers with that same accent. For young listeners with normal hearing, short term, accent-independent adaptation to a novel foreign accent is also facilitated through exposure training with multiple foreign accents. In the present study, accent-independent adaptation is examined in younger and older listeners with normal hearing and older listeners with hearing loss. Retention of training benefit is additionally explored. Stimuli for testing and training were HINT sentences recorded by talkers with nine distinctly different accents. Following two training sessions, all listener groups showed a similar increase in speech perception for a novel foreign accent. While no group retained this benefit at one week post-training, results of a secondary reaction time task revealed a decrease in reaction time following training, suggesting reduced listening effort. Examination of listeners' cognitive skills reveals a positive relationship between working memory and speech recognition ability. The present findings indicate that, while this no-feedback training paradigm for foreign-accented English is successful in promoting short term adaptation for listeners, this paradigm is not sufficient in facilitation of perceptual learning with lasting benefits for younger or older listeners.
Convergent and Divergent Validity Between the KTK and MOT 4-6 Motor Tests in Early Childhood
Authors: Bardid Farid , Huyben Floris , Deconinck Frederik J.A. , De Martelaer Kristine , Seghers Jan , Lenoir Matthieu
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the convergent and divergent validity between the Body Coordination Test for Children (KTK) and the Motor Proficiency Test for 4- to 6-Year-Old Children (MOT 4-6). A total of 638 children (5–6 yr old) took part in the study. The results showed a moderately positive association between the total scores of both tests (rs = .63). Moreover, the KTK total score correlated more highly with the MOT 4-6 gross motor score than with the MOT 4-6 fine motor score (rs = .62 vs. .32). Levels of agreement were moderate when identifying children with moderate or severe motor problems and low at best when detecting children with higher motor-competence levels. This study provides evidence of convergent and divergent validity between the KTK and MOT 4-6. However, given the moderate to low levels of agreement, either measurement may lead to possible categorization errors. Therefore, it is recommended that children’s motor competence not be judged based on the result of a single test.
Lasers expose hidden electronic order
Authors: Dodge J. Steven
Published: April 2017

An exotic metallic phase of matter is revealed in a correlated electron system
Dramatizing Deepwater Horizon
SPILL
Leigh Fondakowski
The Ensemble Studio Theatre, New York, NY, USA.
Authors: Rademacher Anne
Published: April 2017

A new play reveals the far-reaching consequences of our endless appetite for fossil fuels
Why Earth Optimism?
Authors: Balmford Andrew , Knowlton Nancy
Published: April 2017

A focus on conservation in this issue of
Science
appears on the eve of Earth Day, which is being celebrated by scientists in meetings and public events worldwide. Conservation professionals, who have long condemned attacks on the environment, will gather for Earth Optimism events to highlight conservation achievements. Separately, but simultaneously, marches for science will highlight science's achievements but also decry that science, scientists, and evidence-based policy-making are under attack. Although distinct in emphasis, these events speak with the same voice.
Comparison of Saramis 4.12 and IVD 3.0 Vitek MS Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of Mycobacteria from Solid and Liquid Culture Media
Authors: Leyer Caroline , Gregorowicz Guillaume , Mougari Faiza , Raskine Laurent , Cambau Emmanuelle , de Briel Dominique
Published: April 2017

During the last decade, many investigators have studied matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for identification of mycobacteria. Diverse and contradictory results indicated that optimal level for routine testing has not been reached yet. This work aimed to assess Vitek MS through two distinct versions, Saramis v4.12 RUO and the IVD v3.0, under conditions close to routine laboratory practice. Overall, 111 mycobacterial isolates were subjected to protein extraction and same spectra were matched against both databases. The IVD v3.0 database proved to be superior to Saramis v4.12 and its identification rates remarkably increased, from 67% to 94% for isolates grown on Middlebrook 7H10 solid medium and from 62% to 91% for isolates grown on mycobacterial growth indicator tube (MGIT) liquid medium. With this new version, IVD v3.0, MALDI-TOF MS might be integrated into routine clinical diagnostics, although molecular techniques remain mandatory in some cases.
BET 2: Striking the right balance: anticoagulation and isolated distal deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Jones Tom , Horner Dan
Published: April 2017

A short-cut review was carried out to establish whether treatment of isolated distal deep vein thrombosis with therapeutic anticoagulation can reduce adverse clinical outcomes. A meta-analysis from 2011 and 11 subsequent directly relevant papers were found using the reported search strategy. Of these, 7 in total presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these best papers are tabulated. It is concluded that patients diagnosed with isolated distal deep vein thrombosis should be individually risk assessed and treated according to their risk of thrombotic complication, bleeding with anticoagulation and personal preference.
Development of a novel rationally designed antibiotic to inhibit a nontraditional bacterial target
Authors: Dibrov Pavel , Dibrov Elena , Maddaford Thane G. , Kenneth Melissa , Nelson Jordan , Resch Craig , Pierce Grant N.
Published: April 2017

The search for new nontraditional targets is a high priority in antibiotic design today. Bacterial membrane energetics based on sodium ion circulation offers potential alternative targets. The present work identifies the Na+-translocating NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Na+-NQR), a key respiratory enzyme in many microbial pathogens, as indispensible for the Chlamydia trachomatis infectious process. Infection by Chlamydia trachomatis significantly increased first H+ and then Na+ levels within the host mammalian cell. A newly designed furanone Na+-NQR inhibitor, PEG-2S, blocked the changes in both H+ and Na+ levels induced by Chlamydia trachomatis infection. It also inhibited intracellular proliferation of Chlamydia trachomatis with a half-minimal inhibitory concentration in the submicromolar range but did not affect the viability of mammalian cells or bacterial species representing benign intestinal microflora. At low nanomolar concentrations (IC50 value = 1.76 nmol/L), PEG-2S inhibited the Na+-NQR activity in sub-bacterial membrane vesicles isolated from Vibrio cholerae. Taken together, these results show, for the first time, that Na+-NQR is critical for the bacterial infectious process and is susceptible to a precisely targeted bactericidal compound in situ. The obtained data have immediate relevance for many different diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria that rely on Na+-NQR activity for growth, including sexually transmitted, pulmonary, oral, gum, and ocular infections.
Bounds on supersymmetric effective operators from heavy diphoton searches
Authors: Ghilencea D. M. , Lee Hyun Min
Published: April 2017

We identify the bounds on supersymmetric effective operators beyond minimal supersymmetric models (MSSM, etc.), from heavy diphoton resonance (X) negative searches at the LHC, where X is identified with the neutral CP-even (odd), H(A) or both (mass degenerate). While MSSM-like models comply with the data, a leading effective operator of d = 6 can contribute significantly to diphoton production [Formula: see text] 1 fb, well above its MSSM value and in conflict with recent data. Both the [Formula: see text] and gg production mechanisms of H and A can contribute comparably to this. We examine the dependence of the diphoton cross-section [Formula: see text] on the values of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and tan [Formula: see text], under the experimental constraints from the SM-like Higgs couplings hgg and h[Formula: see text] (due to mixing) and from the [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] searches. These give [Formula: see text] larger than [Formula: see text] 5 TeV for [Formula: see text] in the range 0.5–1 TeV. We show how to generate the d = 6 effective operator from microscopic (renormalizable) models. This demands the presence of vector-like states beyond the MSSM spectrum (and eventually, but not necessarily a gauge singlet), of mass near [Formula: see text] and thus outside the LHC reach.
Plunges in the Bombay stock exchange: Characteristics and indicators
Authors: Banerjee Kinjal , Sharma Chandradew , Bittu N.
Published: April 2017

We study the various sectors of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) for a period of eight years from January 2006–March 2014. Using the data of the daily returns of a period of eight years we investigate the financial cross-correlation co-efficients among the sectors of BSE and Price by Earning (PE) ratio of BSE Sensex. We show that the behavior of these quantities during normal periods and during crisis is very different. We show that the PE ratio shows a particular distinctive trend in the approach to a crash of the financial market and can therefore be used as an indicator of an impending catastrophe. We propose that a model of analysis of crashes in a financial market can be built using two parameters: (i) the PE ratio and (ii) the largest eigenvalue of the cross-correlation matrix.
The influence of passenger flow on the topology characteristics of urban rail transit networks
Authors: Hu Yingyue , Chen Feng , Chen Peiwen , Tan Yurong
Published: April 2017

Current researches on the network characteristics of metro networks are generally carried out on topology networks without passenger flows running on it, thus more complex features of the networks with ridership loaded on it cannot be captured. In this study, we incorporated the load of metro networks, passenger volume, into the exploration of network features. Thus, the network can be examined in the context of operation, which is the ultimate purpose of the existence of a metro network. To this end, section load was selected as an edge weight to demonstrate the influence of ridership on the network, and a weighted calculation method for complex network indicators and robustness were proposed to capture the unique behaviors of a metro network with passengers flowing in it. The proposed method was applied on Beijing Subway. Firstly, the passenger volume in terms of daily origin and destination matrix was extracted from exhausted transit smart card data. Using the established approach and the matrix as weighting, common indicators of complex network including clustering coefficient, betweenness and degree were calculated, and network robustness were evaluated under potential attacks. The results were further compared to that of unweighted networks, and it suggests indicators of the network with consideration of passenger volumes differ from that without ridership to some extent, and networks tend to be more vulnerable than that without load on it. The significance sequence for the stations can be changed. By introducing passenger flow weighting, actual operation status of the network can be reflected more accurately. It is beneficial to determine the crucial stations and make precautionary measures for the entire network’s operation security.
A lower bound of the distortion of the Torelli group in the mapping class group with boundary components
Authors: Kuno Erika , Omori Genki
Published: April 2017

We prove that the Torelli group of an oriented surface with any number of boundary components is at least exponentially distorted in the mapping class group by using Broaddus–Farb–Putman’s techniques. Further we show that the distortion of the Torelli group in the level [Formula: see text] mapping class group is the same as that in the mapping class group.
Applying fluid biomarkers to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zetterberg Henrik
Published: April 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease that starts with a clinically silent phase of a decade or more during which brain pathologies accumulate predominantly in the medial temporal lobe but also elsewhere in the brain. Network dysfunction and clinical symptoms typically appear when senile plaque (amyloid-β) and neurofibrillary tangle (tau) pathologies meet in the brain parenchyma, producing synapse and neuronal loss. For plaque and tangle pathologies, reliable fluid biomarkers have been developed. These require sampling of cerebrospinal fluid. Reliable blood tests for plaque and tangle pathologies are currently lacking, but blood tests for general neurodegeneration have recently been developed. In AD, plaques and tangles often coexist with other pathologies, including Lewy bodies, and to what extent these contribute to symptoms is currently unknown. There are also important differential diagnoses that may be possible to distinguish from AD with the aid of biomarkers. The scope of this review is fluid biomarkers for AD and related pathologies. The purpose is to provide the reader with an updated account of currently available fluid biomarkers for AD and clinically relevant differential diagnoses.
Targeted inactivation of copper transporter Atp7b in hepatocytes causes liver steatosis and obesity in mice
Authors: Muchenditsi Abigael , Yang Haojun , Hamilton James P. , Koganti Lahari , Housseau Franck , Aronov Lisa , Fan Hongni , Pierson Hannah , Bhattacharjee Ashima , Murphy Robert , Sears Cynthia , Potter James , Wooton-Kee Clavia R. , Lutsenko Svetlana
Published: April 2017

Copper-transporting ATPase 2 (ATP7B) is essential for mammalian copper homeostasis. Mutations in ATP7B result in copper accumulation, especially in the liver, and cause Wilson disease (WD). The major role of hepatocytes in WD pathology is firmly established. It is less certain whether the excess Cu in hepatocytes is solely responsible for development of WD. To address this issue, we generated a mouse strain for Cre-mediated deletion of Atp7b and inactivated Atp7b selectively in hepatocytes. Atp7bΔHep mice accumulate copper in the liver, have elevated urinary copper, and lack holoceruloplasmin but show no liver disease for up to 30 wk. Liver inflammation is muted and markedly delayed compared with the age-matched Atp7b−/− null mice, which show a strong type1 inflammatory response. Expression of metallothioneins is higher in Atp7bΔHep livers than in Atp7b−/− mice, suggesting better sequestration of excess copper. Characterization of purified cell populations also revealed that nonparenchymal cells in Atp7bΔHep liver maintain Atp7b expression, have normal copper balance, and remain largely quiescent. The lack of inflammation unmasked metabolic consequences of copper misbalance in hepatocytes. Atp7bΔHep animals weigh more than controls and have higher levels of liver triglycerides and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase. By 45 wk, all animals develop liver steatosis on a regular diet. Thus copper misbalance in hepatocytes dysregulates lipid metabolism, whereas development of inflammatory response in WD may depend on copper status of nonparenchymal cells. The implications of these findings for the cell-targeting WD therapies are discussed.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Targeted inactivation of copper-transporting ATPase 2 (Atp7b) in hepatocytes causes steatosis in the absence of inflammation.
A distributed solute model: an extended two-pore model with application to the glomerular sieving of Ficoll
Authors: Öberg Carl M. , Groszek Joseph J. , Roy Shuvo , Fissell William H. , Rippe Bengt
Published: April 2017

One of the many unresolved questions regarding the permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier is the reason behind the marked difference in permeability between albumin and polysaccharide probe molecules such as Ficoll and dextran of the same molecular size. Although the differences in permeability have been mainly attributed to charge effects, we have previously shown that this would require a highly charged filtration barrier, having a charge density that is ~10 times more than that on the albumin molecule. In this article, the classic two-pore model was extended by introducing size distributions on the solute molecules, making them conformationally flexible. Experimental sieving data for Ficoll from the rat glomerulus and from precision-made silicon nanopore membranes were analyzed using the model. For the rat glomerulus a small-pore radius of 36.2 Å and a geometric standard deviation (gSD) for the Ficoll size-distribution of 1.16 were obtained. For the nanopore membranes, a gSD of 1.24 and a small-pore radius of 43 Å were found. Interestingly, a variation of only ~16% in the size of the polysaccharide molecule is sufficient to explain the difference in permeability between albumin and Ficoll. Also, in line with previous data, the effects of applying a size distribution on the solute molecule are only evident when the molecular size is close to the pore size. Surely there is at least some variation in the pore radii, and, likely, the gSD obtained in the current study is an overestimation of the “true” variation in the size of the Ficoll molecule.
UCP2 attenuates apoptosis of tubular epithelial cells in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhou Yang , Cai Ting , Xu Jing , Jiang Lei , Wu Jining , Sun Qi , Zen Ke , Yang Junwei
Published: April 2017

Uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2) plays critical roles in energy metabolism and cell survival. Previous investigations showed that UCP2 regulated the production of extracellular matrix and renal fibrosis. However, little is known about UCP2 in acute kidney injury (AKI). Here, we used Ucp2 knockout mice to investigate the role of UCP2 in an AKI model generated by renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The Ucp2 global knockout mice were born and grew normally without kidney histological abnormality or renal dysfunction. Compared with littermates, deletion of Ucp2 exacerbated I/R-induced AKI whereas increase of UCP2 by conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) attenuated I/R injury. Tubular cell apoptosis and autophagy were induced by I/R. After injury, more tubular cell apoptosis and less autophagy were identified in the kidneys of knockout mice compared with their littermates, and less apoptosis and more autophagy were observed in mice fed with CLA. In vitro rotenone, an inhibitor of electron transport chain complex I, was applied to induce energy depletion in cultured tubular epithelial cells. As expected, rotenone-recovery (R/R) treatment induced tubular cell apoptosis and autophagy. UCP2 plasmid transfection reduced cell apoptosis and facilitated autophagy after R/R treatment, whereas UCP2 small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection sensitized cell apoptosis but reduced autophagy induced by R/R treatment. Interference of autophagy by treatment with autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine or autophagy initiation protein Beclin-1 siRNA transfection resulted in tubular cell apoptosis. Thus UCP2 attenuates I/R-induced AKI, probably by reducing cell apoptosis through protection of autophagy.
Connecting tubule glomerular feedback mediates tubuloglomerular feedback resetting after unilateral nephrectomy
Authors: Monu Sumit R. , Ren Yilin , Masjoan-Juncos J. X. , Kutskill Kristopher , Wang Hong , Kumar Nitin , Peterson Edward L. , Carretero Oscar A.
Published: April 2017

Unilaterally nephrectomized rats (UNx) have higher glomerular capillary pressure (PGC) that can cause significant glomerular injury in the remnant kidney. PGCis controlled by the ratio of afferent (Af-Art) and efferent arteriole resistance. Af-Art resistance in turn is regulated by two intrinsic feedback mechanisms: 1) tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) that causes Af-Art constriction in response to increased NaCl in the macula densa; and 2) connecting tubule glomerular feedback (CTGF) that causes Af-Art dilatation in response to an increase in NaCl transport in the connecting tubule via the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). Resetting of TGF post-UNx can allow systemic pressure to be transmitted to the glomerulus and cause renal damage, but the mechanism behind this resetting is unclear. Since CTGF is an Af-Art dilatory mechanism, we hypothesized that CTGF is increased after UNx and contributes to TGF resetting. To test this hypothesis, we performed UNx in Sprague-Dawley (8) rats. Twenty-four hours after surgery, we performed micropuncture of individual nephrons and measured stop-flow pressure (PSF). PSFis an indirect measurement of PGC. Maximal TGF response at 40 nl/min was 8.9 ± 1.24 mmHg in sham-UNx rats and 1.39 ± 1.02 mmHg in UNx rats, indicating TGF resetting after UNx. When CTGF was inhibited with the ENaC blocker benzamil (1 μM/l), the TGF response was 12.29 ± 2.01 mmHg in UNx rats and 13.03 ± 1.25 mmHg in sham-UNx rats, indicating restoration of the TGF responses in UNx. We conclude that enhanced CTGF contributes to TGF resetting after UNx.
Plasma microRNAs characterising patients with immune thrombo cytopenic purpura
Authors: Zuo Bin , Zhai Juping , You Lifang , Zhao Yunxiao , Yang Jianfeng , Weng Zhen , Dai Lan , Wu Qingyu , Ruan Changgeng , He Yang
Published: April 2017

Altered microRNA (miRNA) expression has been reported in patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). However, the detailed expression profiling of cell-free circulating miRNAs in ITP patients has not been fully investigated. In this study, we aimed to examine plasma miRNAs in ITP patients and evaluate their diagnostic values. Plasma samples from 74 ITP patients and 58 healthy controls were obtained and allocated into discovery, validation, and therapy-response sets. Initial screen with a miRNA microarray assay identified 23 miRNAs with different levels between ITP patients and healthy controls (>1.5-fold changes; p<0.01). Subsequent quantitative real-time PCR confirmed eight up-regulated miRNAs (miR-320c, miR-642b-3p, miR-1275, miR-3141, miR-4270, miR-4499, miR-4739 and miR-6126) and three down-regulated miRNAs (miR-144–3p, miR-1281 and miR-3162–3p) in ITP patients. The levels of these circulating miRNAs varied, depending on ITP subtypes, i.e. newly-diagnosed, persistent and chronic ITP, and between treatment responders and non-responders. In receiver operator characteristic analysis, 10 miRNAs had positive diagnostic values (p<0.05) when tested individually. The diagnostic value improved when the miRNAs were analysed as a panel or together with the analysis of anti-platelet autoantibodies. Plasma miR-3162–3p levels were also found to positively correlate with platelet counts in ITP patients (r=0.338, p=0.01). Our results indicate that plasma miRNA profiles are altered in ITP patients and that the differentially expressed miRNAs may be used as biomarkers to improve the diagnosis of ITP.
NOACs for treatment of venous thromboembolism in clinical practice
Authors: Schulman Sam , Singer Daniel , Ageno Walter , Casella Ivan B. , Desch Marc , Goldhaber Samuel Z.
Published: April 2017

Randomised controlled trials have provided important information on the efficacy and safety of the non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE), leading to registration and increasing use in clinical practice. Many questions remain to be answered, and observational studies are often more suitable for answering “real-world” questions than randomised controlled trials. Patient satisfaction, quality of life, and adherence and persistence in clinical practice with the drug regimen can only be assessed with an open-label design. Evaluation of risk for long-term sequelae of the disease requires much longer follow-up than is possible in registration trials. Treatment patterns and utilisation of health care resources can be assessed from observations in the clinical practice setting. We will review published as well as currently active observational studies with NOACs in VTE, with or without a comparator anticoagulant. These studies are based on cohorts of different sizes, registries, or administrative health care databases. We will also discuss some limitations in analysis and interpretation of observational studies.
Factores de riesgo para el consumo de alcohol en adolescentes estudiantes
Authors: Arrioja Morales Graciela , Galera Sueli Aparecida Frari , Torres Reyes Alejandro , Aguila Sebastiana Gargantúa del Rosario , Avila Arroyo María Luz De , Morales Castillo Francisco Adrian
Published: April 2017

As legislações dos países não aceitam o consumo de álcool em adolescentes, mas se observa seu aumento. Objetivo: Identificar o efeito dos fatores pessoais no consumo de álcool em adolescentes que estudam. Métodos: Estudo correlacional em adolescentes que estudam, com amostragem aleatória realizando a seleção de uma n= 894, a aplicação de três instrumentos. Resultados: O consumo de álcool alguma vez na vida foi de 65%. Encontram-se efeitos dos fatores de risco; sexo e idade sobre o consumo de álcool (c2=31.23; p=.001; R2= 27%). Conclusões: Os fatores de risco aumentam o consumo de álcool em adolescentes
The Institutionalization of a Process
Authors: Arribas Gloria Fernández
Published: April 2017

The Kimberley Process represents a new method of international cooperation between subjects of international law. It was named by its creators as a process, setting it apart from international organizations, and leading too to its consideration as informal international law-making or soft law. In this study we shall analyze the extent to which the Kimberley Process falls into these categories. Our main task, however, is to compare it to formal international organizations, with a view to establishing whether what really has been created is an institutionalization process that is like an international organization, but with a different name. To do this, we will analyze with reference to the Kimberley Process the various respective fields of international organizations, such as founding agreement, membership, structure, decision-making process and legal order.
Rethinking the Legal Foundations of Control in International Human Rights Law – The Case of Special Procedures
Authors: Redondo Elvira Domínguez
Published: April 2017

Some States, having gained increased weight in the United Nations [UN] human rights machinery, pushed through reforms of the Charter-bodies designed to limit their powers of investigation. This paper focuses on the impact of these views in relation to the methods of work developed by special procedures. However, it also highlights how the limits imposed on the freedom enjoyed so far by mandate-holders in the performance of their functions may have provided the most powerful arguments to overcome their brittle legal foundations, and to provide a sound legal basis to the most intrusive activities of such procedures. The approval of a Code of Conduct appears to endorse a practice that subverts the traditional requirement of State consent when monitoring activities result in a final assessment based on international law as to the existence of a violation.
Protecting Freedom to Manifest One's Religion or Belief: Strasbourg or Luxembourg?
Authors: Howard Erica
Published: April 2017

Persons who want to manifest their religion through the wearing of religious symbols but who are prohibited from doing so appear to be unlikely to be successful in challenging these prohibitions under Articles 9 or 14 ECHR before the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, although very recent case law might tentatively suggest a shift in this approach. This article gives an overview of this case law, including the recent judgment in Eweida and others v. the United Kingdom, and this is followed by an analysis of a number of arguments which suggest that a challenge to bans on the wearing of religious symbols would have more chance of being successful in the Court of Justice of the European Union in Luxembourg.
Motives for ‘Disappearances’ in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay in the 1970s
Authors: Heinz Wolfgang S.
Published: April 2017

The article looks at the motives of military governments in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay to introduce ‘disappearances’ as a new method to fight ‘subversion’ and thereby commit human rights violations. Five variables are taken as a point of departure, the country's previous experience with use of state violence, the selection of victims, the role of international public opinion, the selection of methods within the state and ideological factors. Among the key elements were in two countries the shift of responsibility for the use of violence to the military before the coup (except Chile), a lack of civilian control and influence in the formulation and control of internal security policies and an overwhelming, confused ideological definition in Argentina and in Chile (to a lesser degree in Uruguay) of the armed conflict as a war between good and evil and against World Communism which endangered the survival of the nation.
Mortality risk factors from converting off-pump coronary artery bypass to on-pump coronary artery bypass
Authors: Miao Na , Yang Feng , Du Zhongtao , Jiang Chunjing , Hao Xing , Wang Jinhong , Jiang Yu , Yang Xiaofang , Xie Haixiu , Hou Xiaotong
Published: April 2017

Introduction:

A number of large-scale retrospective studies revealed that off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) was superior to on-pump coronary artery bypass (ONCAB). The aim of the study was to investigate risk factors for mortality when OPCAB is converted to ONCAB.

Methods:

Patients who underwent OPCAB conversion to ONCAB at the Beijing Anzhen Hospital between January 2003 and January 2013 were assigned to the non-survivor and survivor groups. Background demographics, illness history and preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were compared.

Results:

Of the 247 cases, 15.4% of the patients died. Patients in the non-survivor group were older and more frequently had diabetes mellitus (DM), arrhythmia, myocardial infarction (MI) in the past 30 days (all p<0.05) and MI combined with mitral regurgitation (p<0.0001); they more frequently had bigger left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (p=0.0019), greater fall in blood pressure, ventricular fibrillation for longer periods, longer conversion time and bypass graft occlusion. All patients in the non-survivor group received intra-aortic balloon pump compared to 89.5% in the survivor group and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was more common. Left main coronary artery disease (OR=4.431, 95%CI: 2.440-8.048, p<0.0001), blood pressure decline ⩽40 mmHg (OR=0.509, 95%CI: 0.447-0.580, p<0.0001) and time for conversion to ONCAB ⩾20 min were independently associated with mortality. Rates of postoperative complications, such as renal failure, cerebral infarction or hemorrhage, MI and redo sternotomy, were higher in the non-survivor group.

Conclusions:

Conversion from OPCAB to ONCAB is associated with high mortality. Risk factors include left main artery disease and duration of blood pressure decline >40 min.
Persistent idiopathic facial pain
Authors: Benoliel Rafael , Gaul Charly
Published: April 2017

Background

Persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) is a chronic disorder recurring daily for more than two hours per day over more than three months, in the absence of clinical neurological deficit. PIFP is the current terminology for Atypical Facial Pain and is characterized by daily or near daily pain that is initially confined but may subsequently spread. Pain cannot be attributed to any pathological process, although traumatic neuropathic mechanisms are suspected. When present intraorally, PIFP has been termed ‘Atypical Odontalgia’, and this entity is discussed in a separate article in this special issue. PIFP is often a difficult but important differential diagnosis among chronic facial pain syndromes.

Aim

To summarize current knowledge on diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of PIFP.

Methods

We present a narrative review reporting current literature and personal experience. Additionally, we discuss and differentiate the common differential diagnoses associated with PIFP including traumatic trigeminal neuropathies, regional myofascial pain, atypical neurovascular pains and atypical trigeminal neuropathic pains.

Results and conclusion

The underlying pathophysiology in PIFP is still enigmatic, however neuropathic mechanisms may be relevant. PIFP needs interdisciplinary collaboration to rule out and manage secondary causes, psychiatric comorbidities and other facial pain syndromes, particularly trigeminal neuralgia. Burden of disease and psychiatric comorbidity screening is recommended at an early stage of disease, and should be addressed in the management plan. Future research is needed to establish clear diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies based on clinical findings and individual pathophysiology.
The Axiological Clash as a Key Determinant of Expanded and Destructive Political Conflict in Poland
Authors: Radkiewicz Piotr
Published: April 2017

This article examines the phenomenon of strong political conflict that takes place in Poland. It may be argued that because of its intensity, a level of excited emotions, and antagonizing effects on interpersonal relationships, it exhibits clear characteristics of the expanded and destructive conflict. This phenomenon is also reflected in the deepening bipolar division within the Polish electorate. The proposed theoretical perspective posits that the most important psychological source of this conflict should primarily be sought in the clash of two antagonistic axiological systems preferred by conflicting electorates and represented by two rival parties: Civic Platform and Law and Justice. Based on a survey study (N = 750) conducted on a representative sample of Poles, it was shown that the representatives of both electorates were indeed located at two, in the psychological sense, opposite extremes. The typical mental profile of a Civic Platform follower is purely individualistic (preference for openness to change and self-enhancement human values) and is accompanied by a political ideology that combines cultural leftism and economic rightism. On the other hand, the typical profile of a Law and Justice follower can be described as purely communal (preference for conservation and self-transcendence human values), combining culturally right and economically left postulates. The mental characteristics of conflicting electorates are discussed in the context of Poland’s past and contemporary sociopolitical experiences, as well as the fundamental rivalry between two inherently antagonistic views on democracy: liberal and communitarian.
Turning Points in the Lives of Youth of With/Without ADHD: Are They Linked to Changes in Substance Use?
Authors: Jensen Peter S. , Yuki Kumi , Murray Desiree , Mitchell John T. , Weisner Thomas , Hinshaw Steven , Molina Brooke , Swanson James , Arnold L. Eugene , Hechtman Lily , Wells Karen
Published: April 2017

Objective: This study examines the behavior beliefs, social supports, and turning points in individuals with/without ADHD related to their substance use/abuse (SU/A) decisions. Method: The coded interviews from 60 participants with/without ADHD were compared for their SU/A decisions and precipitants with these decisions among abstainers, persisters, and desisters. Results: ADHD participants reported fewer social advantages to avoid SU/A than non-ADHD participants. Desisters and persisters reported more social advantages of using drugs than abstainers. Persisters reported both more negative and positive psychological/physiological effects of SU/A. ADHD participants reported fewer positive role models in their lives. Non-ADHD patients reported more positive turning points than ADHD participants, regardless of SU/A status. Conclusion: ADHD individuals face challenges in making healthy decisions about SU/A due to lack of positive role models. Reinforcing accurate behavioral beliefs may be important to change behaviors in individuals with SU/A or to prevent SU/A initiation in ADHD individuals.
Adenovirus-mediated CD40L gene transfer increases Teffector/Tregulatory cell ratio and upregulates death receptors in metastatic melanoma patients
Authors: Schiza A. , Wenthe J. , Mangsbo S. , Eriksson E. , Nilsson Anders , Tötterman T. H. , Loskog A. , Ullenhag G.
Published: April 2017

Background and aims

Malignant melanoma is an aggressive tumor sensitive for immunotherapy such as checkpoint blockade antibodies. Still, most patients with late stage disease do not respond, and the side effects can be severe. Stimulation of the CD40 pathway to initiate anti-tumor immunity is a promising alternative. Herein, we demonstrate immune profiling data from melanoma patients treated with an adenovirus-based CD40 ligand gene therapy (AdCD40L).

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma were collected from malignant melanoma patients (n = 15) enrolled in a phase I/IIa study investigating intratumoral delivery of AdCD40L with or without low dose cyclophosphamide. Cells were analyzed by flow cytometry while plasma samples were analyzed by a multi-array proteomics.

Results

All patients had an increased Teffector/Tregulatory cell ratio post therapy. Simultaneously, the death receptors TNFR1 and TRAIL-R2 were significantly up-regulated post treatment. Stem cell factor (SCF), E-selectin, and CD6 correlated to enhanced overall survival while a high level of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (gMDSCs), IL8, IL10, TGFb1, CCL4, PlGF and Fl3t ligand was highest in patients with short survival.

Conclusions

AdCD40L intratumoral injection induced desirable systemic immune effects that correlated to prolonged survival. Further studies using CD40 stimulation in malignant melanoma are warranted.

Trial registration The 002:CD40L trial “Phase I/IIa AdCD40L Immunogene Therapy for Malignant Melanoma and Other Solid Tumors” (clinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01455259) was registered at September 2011
Fixed set of set valued mappings with set valued domain in terms of start set on a metric space with a graph
Authors: Debnath Pradip , Choudhury Binayak S , Neog Murchana
Published: April 2017

In this article, we define the new concept of a fixed set for a set valued map with set valued domain in the setting of metric space endowed with a directed graph. This notion of fixed set is analogous to the notion of a fixed point for a multivalued map and not for a classical single-valued map. We also introduce the new concept of the start set of a graph whose vertices are closed and bounded subsets of a metric space. Characterizations for such a graph to have a start set are given. Further, the notion of a self-path set valued map is defined and its relation with the start set is established. Finally, the existence of fixed sets is established in this context.
Spatiotemporal regulation of cell fusion by JNK and JAK/STAT signaling during Drosophila wound healing
Authors: Lee Ji-Hyun , Lee Chan-wool , Park Si-Hyoung , Choe Kwang-Min
Published: April 2017

Cell–cell fusion is widely observed during development and disease, and imposes a dramatic change on participating cells. Cell fusion should be tightly controlled, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we found that the JAK/STAT pathway suppressed cell fusion during wound healing in the Drosophila larval epidermis, restricting cell fusion to the vicinity of the wound. In the absence of JAK/STAT signaling, a large syncytium containing a 3-fold higher number of nuclei than observed in wild-type tissue formed in wounded epidermis. The JAK/STAT ligand-encoding genes upd2 and upd3 were transcriptionally induced by wounding, and were required for suppressing excess cell fusion. JNK (also known as Basket in flies) was activated in the wound vicinity and activity peaked at ∼8 h after injury, whereas JAK/STAT signaling was activated in an adjoining concentric ring and activity peaked at a later stage. Cell fusion occurred primarily in the wound vicinity, where JAK/STAT activation was suppressed by fusion-inducing JNK signaling. JAK/STAT signaling was both necessary and sufficient for the induction of βPS integrin (also known as Myospheroid) expression, suggesting that the suppression of cell fusion was mediated at least in part by integrin protein.
Safeguarding, Integrating and Disseminating Knowledge on Exploited Marine Ecosystems: the Ecoscope
Authors: BARDE J. , CAUQUIL P. , CHAVANCE P. , CURY P.
Published: April 2017

no abstract