bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unaided Smoking Cessation in Healthy Employees
Authors: Manis Meryem , Tamm Michael , Stolz Daiana
Published: November 2017

Background: According to guidelines, behavioral and pharmacological assistance should be offered to all smokers willing to quit. However, a large proportion of ex-cigarette smokers are self-quitters. Objectives: To identify characteristics of long-term, unaided self-quitters, as compared to recurrent smokers among health care employees. Methods: University hospital employees (n = 5,218) were addressed through a 17-question questionnaire inquiring about past and current smoking behavior. Questions included daily cigarette consumption, pack-years, previous quit attempts, smoking-free period, and utilization of pharmacological therapies and counseling. Results: 2,574 (49.3%) questionnaires were returned. 791 subjects declared to have successfully quit smoking. A complete data set was available for 763 cases. Patients remained smoking free for a mean period of 11.8 ± 9.7 years. The most common smoking cessation method in these subjects was unaided (77.2%), followed by alternative approaches (15.4%), nicotine replacement therapy (4.5%), counseling (1.7%), and bupropion (1.2%). Smoking cessation was achieved with 1 attempt in 53% of the cases, 2 in 19%, 3 in 13%, and more than 3 attempts in 15%, respectively. On average, 2.4 ± 3.02 attempts led to successful smoking cessation. After 2 or more unsuccessful attempts, the odds ratio for a further unsuccessful smoking cessation was 2.58 (95% CI 1.94–3.45). Conclusion: The majority of the ex-smokers quitted smoking without any behavioral or pharmacological support. The chance to successfully quit smoking without any help in a first or second attempt is considerably high. The risk for smoking recurrence after 2 ineffective quit attempts is markedly increased (OR 2.58).
Pleurodesis Using Mistletoe Extract Delivered via a Spray Catheter during Semirigid Pleuroscopy for Managing Symptomatic Malignant Pleural Effusion
Authors: Eom Jung Seop , Ahn Hyo Yeong , Mok Jeong Ha , Lee Geewon , Jo Eun-Jung , Kim Mi-Hyun , Lee Kwangha , Kim Ki Uk , Park Hye-Kyung , Lee Min Ki
Published: November 2017

Background: Talc poudrage during thoracoscopy is considered the standard procedure for patients with symptomatic malignant pleural effusion (MPE). Until now, no alternative technique other than talc poudrage for pleurodesis during medical thoracoscopy has been proposed. Liquid sclerosants, such as mistletoe extract, have been sprayed evenly into the pleural cavity during semirigid pleuroscopy for chemical pleurodesis. Objective: We conducted a retrospective study using the database of semirigid pleuroscopy to identify the usefulness of pleurodesis using a mistletoe extract delivered via a spray catheter during semirigid pleuroscopy for symptomatic MPE. Methods: All consecutive patients with symptomatic MPE who underwent semirigid pleuroscopy from October 2015 to September 2016 were registered. The responses were evaluated using chest X- ray or computed tomography 4 weeks after pleurodesis. Results: The study included 43 patients who underwent pleurodesis with mistletoe extract via a spray catheter during semirigid pleuroscopy. Complete and partial responses were seen in 21 (49%) and 19 (44%) patients, respectively. The median duration of chest tube placement after pleurod­esis was 7 days (range 6–8 days) in the 40 patients with complete or partial responses. No cases of severe hemorrhage, empyema formation, respiratory failure, or procedure-related mortality were observed in the subjects at 4 weeks after semirigid pleuroscopy. Conclusion: Pleurodesis with mistletoe extract delivered via a spray catheter during semirigid pleuroscopy is a safe and effective procedure for managing symptomatic MPE.
Performance of the Surprise Question Compared to Prediction Models in Hemodialysis Patients: A Prospective Study
Authors: Malhotra Rakesh , Tao Xia , Wang Yuedong , Chen Yuqi , Apruzzese Rebecca H. , Balter Paul , Xiao Qingqing , Usvyat Len A. , Kotanko Peter , Thijssen Stephan
Published: November 2017

Background: The surprise question (SQ) (“Would you be surprised if this patient were still alive in 6 or 12 months?”) is used as a mortality prognostication tool in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We compared the performance of the SQ with that of prediction models (PMs) for 6- and 12-month mortality prediction. Methods: Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and dialysis treatment indicators were used to model 6- and 12-month mortality probability in a HD patients training cohort (n = 6,633) using generalized linear models (GLMs). A total of 10 nephrologists from 5 HD clinics responded to the SQ in 215 patients followed prospectively for 12 months. The performance of PM was evaluated in the validation (n = 6,634) and SQ cohorts (n = 215) using the areas under receiver operating characteristics curves. We compared sensitivities and specificities of PM and SQ. Results: The PM and SQ cohorts comprised 13,267 (mean age 61 years, 55% men, 54% whites) and 215 (mean age 62 years, 59% men, 50% whites) patients, respectively. During the 12-month follow-up, 1,313 patients died in the prediction model cohort and 22 in the SQ cohort. For 6-month mortality prediction, the GLM had areas under the curve of 0.77 in the validation cohort and 0.77 in the SQ cohort. As for 12-month mortality, areas under the curve were 0.77 and 0.80 in the validation and SQ cohorts, respectively. The 6- and 12-month PMs had sensitivities of 0.62 (95% CI 0.35–0.88) and 0.75 (95% CI 0.56–0.94), respectively. The 6- and 12-month SQ sensitivities were 0.23 (95% CI 0.002–0.46) and 0.35 (95% CI 0.14–0.56), respectively. Conclusion: PMs exhibit superior sensitivity compared to the SQ for mortality prognostication in HD patients.
Ginsenoside Rg1 Protects Cardiomyocytes Against Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury via Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Inhibition of JNK
Authors: Li Qianhui , Xiang Yin , Chen Yu , Tang Yong , Zhang Yachen
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) disturb the physiology of H9c2 cells, which is regarded as a major cause of H9c2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Ginsenoside Rg1 is the main active extract of ginseng, which has important antioxidant properties in various cell models. This project investigated the role of ginsenoside Rg1 in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced oxidative stress injury in cultured H9c2 cells to reveal the underlying signaling pathways. Methods: H9c2 cells were pretreated with ginsenoside Rg1 for 12 h before exposure to H/R. In the absence or presence of Nrf2siRNA, HO-1 inhibitor (ZnPP-IX), and inhibitors of the MAPK pathway (SB203580, PD98059, SP600125), H9c2 cells were subjected to H/R with Rg1 treatment. The effects and mechanisms of H/R-induced cardiomyocyte injury were measured. Results: Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment suppressed H/R-induced apoptosis and caspase-3 activation. Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment decreased ROS production and mitochondrial membrane depolarization by elevating the intracellular antioxidant capacity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and reduced glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, ginsenoside Rg1 stimulation appeared to result in nuclear translocation of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), along with enhanced expression of the downstream target gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in a dose-dependent manner. However, ginsenoside Rg1-mediated cardioprotection was abolished by Nrf2-siRNA and HO-1 inhibitor. H/R treatment increased the levels of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinases (p-JNK), which was dramatically attenuated by ginsenoside Rg1 and SP600125 (a specific JNK inhibitor). Conclusion: These observations indicate that ginsenoside Rg1 activates the Nrf2/HO-1 axis and inhibits the JNK pathway in H9c2 cells to protect against oxidative stress.
Proteinase-Activated Receptor-2 Sensitivity of Amplified TRPA1 Activity in Skeletal Muscle Afferent Nerves and Exercise Pressor Reflex in Rats with Femoral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Xing Jihong , Li Jianhua
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Limb ischemia occurs in peripheral artery disease (PAD). Sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) that regulates blood flow directed to the ischemic limb is exaggerated during exercise in this disease, and transient receptor potential channel A1 (TRPA1) in thin-fiber muscle afferents contributes to the amplified sympathetic response. The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of proteinase-activated receptor-2 (PAR2) in regulating abnormal TRPA1 function and the TRPA1-mediated sympathetic component of the exercise pressor reflex. Methods: A rat model of femoral artery ligation was employed to study PAD. Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) tissues were obtained to examine the protein levels of PAR2 using western blot analysis. Current responses induced by activation of TRPA1 in skeletal muscle DRG neurons were characterized using whole-cell patch clamp methods. The blood pressure response to static exercise (i.e., muscle contraction) and stimulation of TRPA1 was also examined after a blockade of PAR2. Results: The expression of PAR2 was amplified in DRG neurons of the occluded limb, and PAR2 activation with SL-NH2 (a PAR2 agonist) increased the amplitude of TRPA1 currents to a greater degree in DRG neurons of the occluded limb. Moreover, FSLLRY-NH2 (a PAR antagonist) injected into the arterial blood supply of the hindlimb muscles significantly attenuated the pressor response to muscle contraction and TRPA1 stimulation in rats with occluded limbs. Conclusions: The PAR2 signal in muscle sensory nerves contributes to the amplified exercise pressor reflex via TRPA1 mechanisms in rats with femoral artery ligation. These findings provide a pathophysiological basis for autonomic responses during exercise activity in PAD, which may potentially aid in the development of therapeutic approaches for improvement of blood flow in this disease.
Kinetic Aspects of Verapamil Binding (On-Rate) on Wild-Type and Six hKv1.3 Mutant Channels
Authors: Diesch Ann-Kathrin , Grissmer Stephan
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: The human-voltage gated Kv1.3 channel (hKv1.3) is expressed in T- and B lymphocytes. Verapamil is able to block hKv1.3 channels. We characterized the effect of verapamil on currents through hKv1.3 channels paying special attention to the on-rate (kon) of verapamil. By comparing on-rates obtained in wild-type (wt) and mutant channels a binding pocket for verapamil and impacts of different amino acid residues should be investigated. Methods: Using the whole-cell patch clamp technique the action of verapamil on currents through wild-type and six hKv1.3 mutant channels in the open state was investigated by measuring the time course of the open channel block in order to calculate kon of verapamil. Results: The on-rate of verapamil to block current through hKv1.3_T419C mutant channels is similar to that obtained for hKv1.3_wt channels whereas the on-rate of verapamil to block currents through hKv1.3_L417C and hKv1.3_L418C mutant channels was ∼ 3 times slower compared to in wt channels. The on-rate of verapamil to block currents through hKv1.3_L346C and the double mutant hKv1.3_L346C_L418C channel was ∼ 2 times slower compared to that obtained in the wt channel. The hKv1.3_I420C mutant channel reduced the on-rate of verapamil to block currents ∼ 6 fold. Conclusions: We conclude that position 420 in hKv1.3 channels maximally interferes with verapamil reaching its binding site to block the channel. Positions 417 and 418 in hKv1.3 channels partially hinder verapamil reaching its binding site to block the channel whereas position 419 may not interfere with verapamil at all. Mutant hKv1.3_L346C and hKv1.3_L346C_L418C mutant channels might indirectly influence the ability of verapamil reaching its binding site to block current.
Mannose-Binding Lectin Does Not Act as a Biomarker for the Progression of Preinvasive Lesions of Invasive Cervical Cancer
Authors: Maestri Carlos Afonso , Nisihara Renato , Ramos Guilherme P. , Weinschutz Mendes Hellen , Messias-Reason Iara , de Carvalho Newton Sérgio
Published: November 2017

Objective: To evaluate serum concentrations of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) in women presenting with different human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cervical lesions. Subjects and Methods: A total of 364 women, who underwent screening for cervical cancer or treatment at the Erasto Gaertner Cancer Hospital (HEG), Curitiba, Brazil, were enrolled in the study. Based on the latest cervical colposcopy-guided biopsy results, the women were divided into 4 groups: cervical intraepithelial neoplasia CIN-I (n = 54), CIN-II (n = 72), CIN-III (n = 145), and invasive cancer (n = 93). A time-resolved immunofluorometric assay was used to measure the MBL concentrations in serum. The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism 6.0. Comparisons were performed by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests and analyzed by χ2 test; continuous variables are presented as medians and categorical variables as frequencies. Results: The median MBL concentrations in decreasing order were as follows: invasive cancer: 1,452 ng/mL, CIN-I: 1,324 ng/mL, CIN-II: 1,104 ng/mL, and CIN-III 1,098 ng/mL. However, no statistical significance was found among the 4 groups with HPV-associated lesions (p = 0.11). Equally, the MBL levels did not show a significant association between the age of the patients and the severity of the cervical lesions (p = 0.68). No statistical significance was found in the median values of MBL or in the status of MBL deficient (<100 ng/mL) and high producers (>1,000 ng/mL) among the women in each group (p = 0.77). Conclusion: In this study, there was no statistically significant difference in MBL serum levels among the groups with CIN. Hence MBL serum concentration appeared not to have influenced the progression of HPV-related preinvasive cervical lesions into invasive cancer.
Riflessioni sulla traduzione nell'ottocento messicano
Authors: Chávez Fernando Ibarra
Published: November 2017

Per tutto il secolo XIX, la traduzione di letteratura italiana nel Messico fu un’attività praticata soprattutto dai poeti. Come mestiere artistico e professionale, alcuni membri dell’élite intellettuale del paese videro la traduzione come un problema letterario e il traduttore fu valutato come un professionista specializzato. Le prime riflessioni sul tema le troviamo nella rivista Miscelánea di José María Heredia e, col passare del tempo, vedremo che i ragionamenti intorno alla traduzione cambiarono, al punto che alla fine del secolo Francisco Sosa pubblicò un commento analitico a proposito di tre traduzioni (spagnole e messicane) della Gerusalemme Liberata del Tasso.
Razão, filosofia e formação em Max Horkheimer
Authors: Petry Franciele Bete
Published: November 2017

O artigo busca discutir a função social atribuída à filosofia por Horkheimer levando em consideração sua crítica à razão. Esta será reconstruída na primeira seção, a qual mostrará como a razão sofreu um processo de esvaziamento de seus conteúdos objetivos, o que resultou no predomínio de uma razão instrumental orientada para a mera autoconservação do indivíduo. Na segunda seção, discutiremos a posição de Horkheimer de que a resistência a esse processo seria possível a partir do exercício de um pensamento não conformista, que se identifica à filosofia, e que busca trazer razão ao mundo ao refletir criticamente sobre a estrutura social e suas contradições. Destacaremos, por fim, a importância da formação (Bildung) no contexto da Universidade, instituição valorizada por Horkheimer pelo humanismo capaz de mobilizar para a resistência.
Fichte leitor de Rousseau: crítica da civilização ou crítica da cultura?
Authors: Cunha João Geraldo Martins da
Published: November 2017

Neste trabalho, proponho analisar comparativamente o "método" defendido por Rousseau (raciocínios hipotéticos e condicionais) e a crítica que Fichte lhe dirige a fim de apontar, de modo bastante esquemático, alguns aspectos relativos ao método filosófico no campo político, notadamente no que diz respeito ao clássico tópico da crítica à civilização ocidental.
Rousseau e suas autobiografias: além do autorretrato
Authors: Martins Adriano Eurípedes Medeiros
Published: November 2017

O sujeito que escreve sobre si mesmo e sua obra: eis a essência de uma obra autobiográfica. O estudo inicia pela abordagem da relação público-autor. Aqui os elementos “para quem” e “para quê”, apesar de significativos, serão secundários em face do autor que as escreve. Defendemos que o autor é uno com sua obra. Assim, Rousseau, ao se defender nas Confissões (1764-1770), está defendendo, por exemplo, o Contrato Social. Tal situação se repetirá com outras quatro obras confessionais e autobiográficas: Cartas ao Sr. Malesherbes (1762), Profissão de Fé do Vigário Saboiano (1762), Diálogos de Rousseau Juiz de Jean-Jacques (1772) e Devaneios de um caminhante solitário (1776-78).
Pensador Republicano ou Nacionalista Revolucionário? Rousseau nas lentes de Schmitt e Arendt
Authors: Neves Raphael
Published: November 2017

Carl Schmitt e Hannah Arendt têm visões opostas em relação às revoluções e à constituição, porém ambos convergem em uma leitura reducionista de Rousseau. O propósito deste trabalho é mostrar como a leitura de Rousseau, de Sieyès e do poder constituinte que Schmitt faz em sua Verfassungslehre (teoria da constituição) de algum modo se encontra com a interpretação que a própria Arendt tem da Revolução Francesa, ainda que ela apresente uma resposta diferente ao “paradoxo da constituição”. Ao final, uma leitura que aponte para as ambivalências de Rousseau permite desfazer algumas distorções e recuperar um pouco o sentido republicano de sua filosofia política.
Association of Osteopontin, Neopterin, and Myeloperoxidase With Stroke Risk in Patients With Prior Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attacks
Authors: Ganz Peter , Amarenco Pierre , Goldstein Larry B. , Sillesen Henrik , Bao Weihang , Preston Gregory M. , Welch K. Michael A.
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

Established risk factors do not fully identify patients at risk for recurrent stroke. The SPARCL trial (Stroke Prevention by Aggressive Reduction in Cholesterol Levels) evaluated the effect of atorvastatin on stroke risk in patients with a recent stroke or transient ischemic attack and no known coronary heart disease. This analysis explored the relationships between 13 plasma biomarkers assessed at trial enrollment and the occurrence of outcome strokes.

Methods—

We conducted a case–cohort study of 2176 participants; 562 had outcome strokes and 1614 were selected randomly from those without outcome strokes. Time to stroke was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards models.

Results—

There was no association between time to stroke and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, resistin, matrix metalloproteinase-9, N-terminal fragment of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, or soluble CD40 ligand. In adjusted analyses, osteopontin (hazard ratio per SD change, 1.362;
P
<0.0001), neopterin (hazard ratio, 1.137;
P
=0.0107), myeloperoxidase (hazard ratio, 1.177;
P
=0.0022), and adiponectin (hazard ratio, 1.207;
P
=0.0013) were independently associated with outcome strokes. After adjustment for the Stroke Prognostic Instrument-II and treatment, osteopontin, neopterin, and myeloperoxidase remained independently associated with outcome strokes. The addition of these 3 biomarkers to Stroke Prognostic Instrument-II increased the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve by 0.023 (
P
=0.015) and yielded a continuous net reclassification improvement (29.1%;
P
<0.0001) and an integrated discrimination improvement (42.3%;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

Osteopontin, neopterin, and myeloperoxidase were independently associated with the risk of recurrent stroke and improved risk classification when added to a clinical risk algorithm.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique Identifier: NCT00147602.
Direct Mechanical Intervention Versus Bridging Therapy in Stroke Patients Eligible for Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Bellwald Sebastian , Weber Ralph , Dobrocky Tomas , Nordmeyer Hannes , Jung Simon , Hadisurya Jeffrie , Mordasini Pasquale , Mono Marie-Luise , Stracke Christian P. , Sarikaya Hakan , Bernasconi Corrado , Berger Klaus , Arnold Marcel , Chapot René , Gralla Jan , Fischer Urs
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

Randomized controlled trials have shown that mechanical thrombectomy (MT) plus best medical treatment improves outcome in stroke patients with large-vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation. Whether direct MT is equally effective as bridging thrombolysis (intravenous thrombolysis plus MT) in intravenous thrombolysis eligible patients remains unclear.

Methods—

We compared clinical and radiological outcomes at 3 months in 249 bridging patients with 111 patients receiving direct MT for large-vessel occlusion anterior circulation stroke from 2 prospective registries (study period Essen: June 2012 to August 2013, Bern February 2009 to August 2014). We matched all patients from the direct MT group who would have qualified for intravenous thrombolysis with controls from the bridging group, using multivariate and propensity score methods. Subgroup analyses for internal carotid artery occlusions were performed.

Results—

Baseline characteristics did not differ between the direct MT group and bridging cohort, except for higher rates of coronary heart disease (
P
=0.029) and shorter intervals from onset to endovascular therapy (
P
<0.001) in the MT group. Functional outcome, mortality, and intracerebral hemorrhage did not differ, neither in univariate nor after multivariate and propensity score matching. However, in patients with internal carotid artery occlusion, mortality in the direct cohort was significantly lower.

Conclusions—

In this matched-pair analysis, there was no difference in outcome in patients with large-vessel occlusion anterior circulation stroke treated with direct MT compared with those treated with bridging thrombolysis; however, mortality in patients with internal carotid artery occlusion treated with direct MT was significantly lower than after bridging thrombolysis. Randomized trials comparing direct MT with bridging therapy are needed.
Fingolimod Protects Against Ischemic White Matter Damage by Modulating Microglia Toward M2 Polarization via STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Qin Chuan , Fan Wen-Hui , Liu Qian , Shang Ke , Murugan Madhuvika , Wu Long-Jun , Wang Wei , Tian Dai-Shi
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

White matter (WM) ischemic injury, a major neuropathological feature of cerebral small vessel diseases, is an important cause of vascular cognitive impairment in later life. The pathogenesis of demyelination after WM ischemic damage are often accompanied by microglial activation. Fingolimod (FTY720) was approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis for its immunosuppression property. In this study, we evaluated the neuroprotective potential of FTY720 in a WM ischemia model.

Methods—

Chronic WM ischemic injury model was induced by bilateral carotid artery stenosis. Cognitive function, WM integrity, microglial activation, and potential pathway involved in microglial polarization were assessed after bilateral carotid artery stenosis.

Results—

Disruption of WM integrity was characterized by demyelination in the corpus callosum and disorganization of Ranvier nodes using Luxol fast blue staining, immunofluorescence staining, and electron microscopy. In addition, radial maze test demonstrated that working memory performance was decreased at 1-month post–bilateral carotid artery stenosis–induced injury. Interestingly, FTY720 could reduce cognitive decline and ameliorate the disruption of WM integrity. Mechanistically, cerebral hypoperfusion induced microglial activation, production of associated proinflammatory cytokines, and priming of microglial polarization toward the M1 phenotype, whereas FTY720 attenuated microglia-mediated neuroinflammation after WM ischemia and promoted oligodendrocytogenesis by shifting microglia toward M2 polarization. FTY720’s effect on microglial M2 polarization was largely suppressed by selective signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) blockade in vitro, revealing that FTY720-enabled shift of microglia from M1 to M2 polarization state was possibly mediated by STAT3 signaling.

Conclusions—

Our study suggested that FTY720 might be a potential therapeutic drug targeting brain inflammation by skewing microglia toward M2 polarization after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Circulating Endothelial Markers in Retinal Vasculopathy With Cerebral Leukoencephalopathy and Systemic Manifestations
Authors: Pelzer Nadine , Bijkerk Roel , Reinders Marlies E.J. , van Zonneveld Anton Jan , Ferrari Michel D. , van den Maagdenberg Arn M.J.M. , Eikenboom Jeroen , Terwindt Gisela M.
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

Retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukoencephalopathy and systemic manifestations (RVCL-S) is a monogenic small vessel disease, caused by C-terminal truncating
TREX1
mutations, that can be considered a model for stroke and vascular dementia. The pathophysiology of RVCL-S is largely unknown, but systemic endothelial involvement has been suggested, leading to pathology in the brain and other highly vascularized organs. Here, we investigated circulating endothelial markers to confirm endothelial involvement and identify biomarkers for disease activity.

Methods—

We measured circulating levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen, VWF propeptide, and angiopoietin-2 in members of 3 Dutch RVCL-S families and matched unrelated healthy controls. Stratified analyses based on symptomatology and age were performed.

Results—

We found elevated levels of VWF antigen, VWF propeptide, and angiopoietin-2 in
TREX1
mutation carriers (n=31) compared with family members without a
TREX1
mutation (n=33) and unrelated healthy controls (n=31; Kruskal–Wallis test
P
<0.001 for all comparisons). Effects were most pronounced in mutation carriers with clinical manifestations aged ≥40 years (Mann–Whitney
U
test
P
<0.001 for all comparisons). Compared with healthy controls, levels of VWF antigen (
P
=0.02) and angiopoietin-2 (
P
=0.04) were also elevated in mutation carriers aged <40 years. All 3 markers showed moderate correlations with markers of kidney and liver disease and inflammation (ie, systemic symptoms of RVCL-S).

Conclusions—

Our results confirm an important role of the endothelium in RVCL-S pathophysiology. VWF antigen, VWF propeptide, and angiopoietin-2 might serve as early biomarkers of disease activity. Our findings might also help to understand the pathophysiology of common neurovascular disorders, such as stroke.
Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Singfer Uri , Hemelsoet Dimitri , Vanlangenhove Peter , Martens Frederic , Verbeke Luc , Van Roost Dirk , Defreyne Luc
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

In light of evidence from ARUBA (A Randomized Trial of Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations), neurovascular specialists had to reconsider deliberate treatment of unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (uBAVMs). Our objective was to determine the outcomes of uBAVM treated with primary embolization using ethylene vinyl alcohol (ONYX).

Methods—

Patients with uBAVM who met the inclusion criteria of ARUBA and were treated with primary Onyx embolization were assigned to this retrospective study. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin Scale score. Secondary outcomes were stroke or death because of uBAVM or intervention and uBAVM obliteration.

Results—

Sixty-one patients (mean age, 38 years) were included. The median observation period was 60 months. Patients were treated by embolization alone (41.0%), embolization and radiosurgery (57.4%), or embolization and excision (1.6%). Occlusion was achieved in 44 of 57 patients with completed treatment (77.2%). Forty-seven patients (77.1%) had no clinical impairment at the end of observation (modified Rankin Scale score of <2). Twelve patients (19.7%) reached the outcome of stroke or death because of uBAVM or intervention. Treatment-related mortality was 6.6% (4 patients).

Conclusions—

In uBAVM, Onyx embolization alone or combined with stereotactic radiosurgery achieves a high occlusion rate. Morbidity remains a challenge, even if it seems lower than in the ARUBA trial.
Inhibition of CD147 (Cluster of Differentiation 147) Ameliorates Acute Ischemic Stroke in Mice by Reducing Thromboinflammation
Authors: Jin Rong , Xiao Adam Y. , Chen Rui , Granger D. Neil , Li Guohong
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose—

Inflammation and thrombosis currently are recognized as critical contributors to the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. CD147 (cluster of differentiation 147), also known as extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer, can function as a key mediator of inflammatory and immune responses. CD147 expression is increased in the brain after cerebral ischemia, but its role in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke remains unknown. In this study, we show that CD147 acts as a key player in ischemic stroke by driving thrombotic and inflammatory responses.

Methods—

Focal cerebral ischemia was induced in C57BL/6 mice by a 60-minute transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Animals were treated with anti-CD147 function–blocking antibody (αCD147) or isotype control antibody. Blood–brain barrier permeability, thrombus formation, and microvascular patency were assessed 24 hours after ischemia. Infarct size, neurological deficits, and inflammatory cells invaded in the brain were assessed 72 hours after ischemia.

Results—

CD147 expression was rapidly increased in ischemic brain endothelium after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Inhibition of CD147 reduced infarct size and improved functional outcome on day 3 after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. The neuroprotective effects were associated with (1) prevented blood–brain barrier damage, (2) decreased intravascular fibrin and platelet deposition, which in turn reduced thrombosis and increased cerebral perfusion, and (3) reduced brain inflammatory cell infiltration. The underlying mechanism may include reduced NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) activation, MMP-9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9) activity, and PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) expression in brain microvascular endothelial cells.

Conclusions—

Inhibition of CD147 ameliorates acute ischemic stroke by reducing thromboinflammation. CD147 might represent a novel and promising therapeutic target for ischemic stroke and possibly other thromboinflammatory disorders.
Can Russia Survive Economic Sanctions?
Authors: Benzell Seth G. , Lagarda Guillermo
Published: November 2017

Motivated by recent events, we study the welfare impact of extreme sanctions regimes on Russia. To do so, we model the demographic and fiscal transitions of the Russian Federation under free trade and autarky. Unlike previous studies of sanctions, our paper utilizes a large-scale overlapping generations model with productivity growth, demographic change, region-specific policies, and an energy sector. This model is uniquely suited to understanding the long-term impacts of different trade and fiscal regimes. This paper investigates the most dramatic sanctions possible, forcing Russia into long-term autarky under a variety of scenarios. The scenarios differ with regard to the sanction's effect on the energy sector, labor productivity, and the enactment of Russian capital controls. We find that elderly Russians are hurt the most by sanctions. When Russia seizes foreign assets, this is in part because of lower interest rates on the assets of retirees. When the sanctions also reduce Russian government energy revenues, the elderly are hurt through increased consumption taxation. In all scenarios but the most benign, all existing generations are made worse off.
Competition Effects and Industrial Productivity:  Lessons from Japanese Industry
Authors: Ambashi Masahito
Published: November 2017

This study mainly investigates the causal relation between the degree of competition, which is measured by the Lerner index, and the total factor productivity (TFP) growth rate on the basis of the Japanese industry-level panel data from 1980 to 2008. While the main finding uncovers a positive effect of competition on the TFP growth rate in manufacturing industries throughout the sample period, 1980–2008, the observed effect for non-manufacturing industries at this time is slightly negative. This unique finding of a negative competition effect suggests that the Schumpeterian hypothesis may be applicable in non-manufacturing industries.
An update on the global stressors and constraints affecting Daphnia populations in large Chilean Patagonian lakes (39-51°S)
Authors: De los Ríos Escalante Patricio , Kies Fátima , Correa-Araneda Francisco
Published: November 2017

The zooplankton communities in Chilean Patagonian lakes (39-51°S) are characterized by the low presence of daphniid cladocerans, i.e., under conditions of the usual native oligotrophy and, thus, low mineral concentrations. Nevertheless, from some northern Patagonian lakes (39-41°S) a marked abundance of daphniids has been reported. According to the literature, as well as evidence from field observations, the main causes of such marked changes in the local zooplankton assemblages would be changes in phytoplankton quantity and quality, providing increased energetic resources for the zooplankton communities. Such energetic resources might decrease the stress effects of low calcium concentrations, as calcium constitutes an essential nutrient for caparace formation in Daphniidae; in addition, energetic expenses needed to perform vertical migrations due to fish predation and exposure to natural ultraviolet radiation can better be provided for. This is a markedly different situation compared to North Patagonian lakes, where daphniid abundance and number of species are related only to phytoplankton quantity and quality in term of phosphorus/nitrogen molar ratio.
Population dynamics and secondary production of a key benthic tanaidacean, Monokalliapseudes schubarti (Mañé-Garzón, 1949) (Tanaidacea, Kalliapseudidae), from a tropical coastal lagoon in southeastern Brazil
Authors: Pennafirme Simone , Soares-Gomes Abilio
Published: November 2017

Estimates of population dynamics and secondary production are important to understand the role of species in ecosystems and the mechanisms that drive life-history trade-offs, contributing to system preservation and monitoring. Population dynamics (growth rate, instantaneous mortality rates and longevity) and secondary production (biomass, production and P/B ratio) of the key marine benthic species Monokalliapseudes schubarti (Mañé-Garzón, 1949) were investigated monthly in a tropical coastal lagoon over 18 months and compared with data from other subtropical and temperate populations. A growth curve was estimated by fitting the Von Bertalanffy growth model. M. schubarti showed latitudinal variation in growth parameters. In tropical areas, M. schubarti generated consecutive cohorts and the growth curve parameters were: , , . A smaller asymptotic length was found for tropical and subtropical areas compared with data from temperate areas, and a lower growth rate was found at the tropical site. The annual mortality rate for the finite population was 0.999 year−1. Longevity, estimated at 10 months, was lower at the tropical site. The secondary production rate of M. schubarti at the tropical coastal lagoon was 10.60 g AFDW m−2 year−1, with a P/B ratio = 5.44. Brief longevity, a high P/B ratio, and high mortality may indicate M. schubarti as an opportunistic species in tropical areas.
Pseudocallisoma coecum (Holmes, 1908) (Amphipoda, Scopelocheiridae) and Lanceola clausi clausi Bovallius, 1885 (Amphipoda, Lanceolidae) associated with Poralia rufescens Vanhöffen, 1902 (Scyphozoa, Ulmaridae)
Authors: Hughes Lauren E. , Lindsay Dhugal
Published: November 2017

Juvenile specimens of the scavenging amphipod Pseudocallisoma coecum (Holmes, 1908) were recorded near the bases of the oral arms of the jellyfish Poralia rufescens Vanhöffen, 1902 in the Japan Trench. Video footage and sampling imply a high infection rate of Poralia, with one to six amphipod specimens occurring on each P. rufescens individual. The hyperiidean amphipod Lanceola clausi clausi Bovallius, 1885 was also found to infect P. rufescens.
Conundrums in Indology
Authors: Slaje Walter
Published: November 2017

A Śarabha is generally understood as an eight-legged monster, surpassing even elephants and lions in strength. A closer inspection of the sources reveals that the evidence for such a one-sided determination is entirely lacking. The notion of a Śarabha has a complex history. Its earliest attestation as a monster occurs only in late strata of the Mahābhārata. Despite this fact, the monstrous nature of a Śarabha was projected in an anachronistic manner indiscriminately onto other literatures as well. Starting, however, from the Atharvaveda, all texts previous to, or uninfluenced by, the Smārta tradition – in particular Buddhist, but also Jain ones –, keep to a different conception, one of an ordinary animal. The present article deals with the original zoological identity of the Śarabha as Mārkhor (Capra falconeri Wagn.) and with the misconceptions that motivated its gradual development into a monster.
Austronesian and Chinese words for the millets
Authors: Sagart Laurent , Hsu Tze-Fu , Tsai Yuan-Ching , Hsing Yue-Ie C.
Published: November 2017

After reviewing recent evidence from related disciplines arguing for an origin of the Austronesian peoples in northeastern China, this paper discusses the Proto-Austronesian and Old Chinese names of the millets, Setaria italica and Panicum miliaceum. Partly based on linguistic data collected in Taiwan by the authors, proposed Proto-Austronesian cognate sets for millet terms are re-evaluated and the Proto-Austronesian sets are identified. The reasons for the earlier confusion among Old Chinese terms for the millets are explained: the Austronesian term for Panicum miliaceum and one of the Chinese terms for the same plant are shown to obey the sound correspondences between Proto-Austronesian and Chinese, earlier described, under a particular resolution of the phonological ambiguities in the OC reconstruction. Possession of the two kinds of millets (not just Setaria, as previously thought) places the pre-Austronesians in northeastern China, adjacent to the probable Sino-Tibetan homeland.
Christians in Iraq: The Transition from Religious to Secular Identity
Authors: Teule Herman G.B.
Published: November 2017

In the Middle Eastern societies, Christians traditionally define themselves as religious communities or churches. This is a continuation of the Ottoman millet system, where religion determined the place one had in society and the patriarch was responsible for the insertion of his community into the state. It not only preserves the traditional ecclesiastical divisions based on dogmatic divergences and church politics but also transposes them to the political field.

For a few decades, many lay politicians in Syria considered this system as detrimental to Christian interests. They developed the idea of a common ethnic identity for all churches using Syriac. New political circumstances in Iraq made it possible to give a political translation of this idea by the creation of Christian political parties, defending common ethnic minority rights. Despite some positive results, attempts at creating unity failed, not only because a lack of unanimity about certain political choices but also about the idea of ethnic identity itself.
Christian Devotional Poetry and Sanskrit Hermeneutics
Authors: Chaturvedi Namrata
Published: November 2017

This paper focuses on exploring dhvani as a hermeneutical tool for reading Christian devotional literature. Dhvani is a theory of poetic suggestion proposed by Ānandavardhana in the eighth century and elaborated upon by Abhinavagupta in the eleventh century that posits layers of semantics in poetic language. By focusing on the devotional poetry of the seventeenth-century religious poets of England, this paper argues for Ānandavardhana’s proposed poetics of suggestion as an enabling way of reading and cognizing devotion as a psycho emotive process. In the context of Indian Christianity, dhvani has been suggested by certain scholars as also enriching the possibilities of interfaith dialogue. This paper argues for incorporating poetic frameworks like dhvani as modes of interfaith dialogue, especially when reading Christian texts in India.
Prophetic Imagination and Empire in Asia
Authors: Fernando Jude Lal
Published: November 2017

The aim of this article is to identify the glimpses of prophetic imagination amongst the Christian communities in Asia, particularly in Korea and Japan, who are engaged in resisting the new round of militarization in the twenty-first century. This resistance denounces the globalist security complex in the region and announces a nonmilitaristic alternative forming a praxis that is necessary for a new theology of peace in East Asia and in Asia broadly. The political reality of the new round of military empire-building will be discussed with a personal narrative and a political analysis after which the theological meaning of prophetic imagination as opposed to imperial consciousness will be analyzed, correlating the personal and political with the theological. The ways in which the resistance to militarization resonates with the prophetic imagination of an alternative consciousness and community will be examined through an analysis of memories and renunciation of war by the churches. Broad implications of these resonances for a peace theology in Asia will be identified.
New feather mites of the genus Amerodectes Valim and Hernandes (Acariformes: Proctophyllodidae) from passerines (Aves: Passeriformes) in Georgia, USA
Authors: MIRONOV SERGEY V. , CHANDLER C. RAY
Published: November 2017

Eight new species of the feather mite genus Amerodectes Valim and Hernandes, 2010 (Proctophyllodidae: Pterodectinae) are described from passerines (Aves: Passeriformes) in Georgia, USA: Amerodectes cathari sp. n. from Catharus ustulatus (Nuttall) (Turdidae), A. haemorhous sp. n. from Haemorhous mexicanus (Muller, PLS) (Fringillidae), A. helmitheros sp. n. from Helmitheros vermivorum (Gmelin) (Parulidae), A. hribari sp. n. from Geothlypis trichas (Linnaeus) (Parulidae), A. hylocichlae sp. n. from Hylocichla mustelina (Gmelin) (Turdidae), A. passerinae sp. n. from Passerina ciris (Linnaeus) (Cardinalidae), A. seiurus sp. n. from Seiurus aurocapilla (Linnaeus) (Parulidae), and A. spizellae sp. n. from Spizella passerina (Bechstein) (Emberizidae). An updated world checklist of Amerodectes species and a key to species recorded and potentially expected in North America (USA and Canada) are proposed.
Three new species of Aponuphis (Annelida: Onuphidae) from eastern Australia
Authors: PAXTON HANNELORE
Published: November 2017

The genus Aponuphis, previously known from the eastern North Atlantic and the Mediterranean, is newly reported from Australia. Three new species are described from off Sydney to Wollongong, New South Wales in sandy sediments, in depths of 25–70 m, bringing the number of recognized Aponuphis species to ten. Aponuphis annae n. sp. and A. bellani n. sp. are abranchiate, whilst A. danicae n. sp. has branchiae over a short region of its body. The tubes of A. annae and A. danicae have a fragile mucous consistency with attached sand grains and that of A. bellani is transparent, tight-fitting and smooth. Two specimens of A. annae were collected with developing juveniles in their tubes demonstrating their direct development but the reproductive mode of the other two species is not known. The distinguishing characteristics of all recognized species are tabled and a key to the three Australian species is presented.
Additions to the description of Paroplocephalus atriceps (Serpentes: Elapidae) with a discussion on pupil shape in it and other Australian snakes
Authors: BUSH BRIAN
Published: November 2017

Morphometric data on an additional twelve individuals of Paroplocephalus atriceps Storr are included enlarging Keogh et al.’s 2000 description of the genus and further verifying its affinities with Hoplocephalus. Included are comments on its venom and observations confirming arboreality and although primarily nocturnal, it includes some diurnal activity. Various authors have erroneously suggested it has vertically elliptic pupils but they are round. During an examination of snake’s eyes, it was found that several additional species have pupils that require re-describing, especially Suta fasciata Rosen, S. punctata Boulenger and Echiopsis curta Schlegel, all of which include individuals with round pupils. A standardised description is suggested for each of the three common pupil shapes in snakes as narrow elliptic where dilation and constriction is lateral or vertical only, wide elliptic where dilation and constriction is both lateral and vertical, and round where any dilation and constriction is equidistant from the centre around the pupil’s circumference.
Free Speech: Scripture in the Context of Divine Simplicity and Divine Freedom
Authors: Duby Steven J.
Published: November 2017

In his Church Dogmatics, Karl Barth cautions against straightforwardly identifying Scripture as a constant locus of divine revelation, lest we presume that readers of Scripture can possess or domesticate God’s self-disclosing activity. Though agreeing that we need to maintain God’s sovereign initiative in his revelation, this essay will characterize the Bible as ongoing divine speech within the context of a doctrine of God’s simplicity and freedom that will enable us to construe the canon of Scripture as written revelation without implying that human beings gain control of God’s revelatory work. A recovery of divine simplicity helps in understanding both the ontological and the epistemological dimensions of biblical revelation. First, in his simplicity, God always acts in the fullness of his being and by his indivisible, infinite essence, which means that in his communicative operation in Scripture God (or God’s action) invariably exceeds the text itself. Second, in his simplicity, God is truly but never fully revealed to finite creatures who are unable to comprehend God’s singular plenitude. These considerations will signal that God can and does continually speak in the biblical text without foregoing the transcendence of his self-revelation.
The Evolution of BioSense: Lessons Learned and Future Directions
Authors: Gould Deborah W. , Walker David , Yoon Paula W.
Published: November 2017

The BioSense program was launched in 2003 with the aim of establishing a nationwide integrated public health surveillance system for early detection and assessment of potential bioterrorism-related illness. The program has matured over the years from an initial Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–centric program to one focused on building syndromic surveillance capacity at the state and local level. The uses of syndromic surveillance have also evolved from an early focus on alerts for bioterrorism-related illness to situational awareness and response, to various hazardous events and disease outbreaks. Future development of BioSense (now the National Syndromic Surveillance Program) includes, in the short term, a focus on data quality with an emphasis on stability, consistency, and reliability and, in the long term, increased capacity and innovation, new data sources and system functionality, and exploration of emerging technologies and analytics.