bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IgA Function in Relation to the Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Macpherson Andrew J. , Yilmaz Bahtiyar , Limenitakis Julien P. , Ganal-Vonarburg Stephanie C.
Published: February 2018

IgA is the dominant immunoglobulin isotype produced in mammals, largely secreted across the intestinal mucosal surface. Although induction of IgA has been a hallmark feature of microbiota colonization following colonization in germ-free animals, until recently appreciation of the function of IgA in host-microbial mutualism has depended mainly on indirect evidence of alterations in microbiota composition or penetration of microbes in the absence of somatic mutations in IgA (or compensatory IgM). Highly parallel sequencing techniques that enable high-resolution analysis of either microbial consortia or IgA sequence diversity are now giving us new perspectives on selective targeting of microbial taxa and the trajectory of IgA diversification according to induction mechanisms, between different individuals and over time. The prospects are to link the range of diversified IgA clonotypes to specific antigenic functions in modulating the microbiota composition, position and metabolism to ensure host mutualism.
Excitons in Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Their Dynamics
Authors: Amori Amanda R. , Hou Zhentao , Krauss Todd D.
Published: February 2018

Understanding exciton dynamics in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is essential to unlocking the many potential applications of these materials. This review summarizes recent progress in understanding exciton photophysics and, in particular, exciton dynamics in SWCNTs. We outline the basic physical and electronic properties of SWCNTs, as well as bright and dark transitions within the framework of a strongly bound one-dimensional excitonic model. We discuss the many facets of ultrafast carrier dynamics in SWCNTs, including both single-exciton states (bright and dark) and multiple-exciton states. Photophysical properties that directly relate to excitons and their dynamics, including exciton diffusion lengths, chemical and structural defects, environmental effects, and photoluminescence photon statistics as observed through photon antibunching measurements, are also discussed. Finally, we identify a few key areas for advancing further research in the field of SWCNT excitons and photonics.
Political Psychology in International Relations: Beyond the Paradigms
Authors: Kertzer Joshua D. , Tingley Dustin
Published: February 2018

Political psychology in international relations (IR) has undergone a dramatic transformation in the past two decades, mirroring the broader changes occurring in IR itself. This review examines the current state of the field. We begin by offering a data-driven snapshot analyzing four years of manuscript classifications at a major IR journal to characterize the questions that IR scholars engaged in psychological research are and are not investigating. We then emphasize six developments in particular, both present-day growth areas (an increased interest in emotions and hot cognition, the rise of more psychologically informed work on public opinion, a nascent research tradition we call the first image reversed, and the rise of neurobiological and evolutionary approaches) and calls for additional scholarship (better integration of the study of mass and elite political behavior and more psychological work in international political economy). Together, these developments constitute some of the directions in which we see the next generation of scholarship heading.
The Other Side of Taxation: Extraction and Social Institutions in the Developing World
Authors: Lust Ellen , Rakner Lise
Published: February 2018

The fiscal sociology literature views the state at the heart of development, but in most developing countries, formal taxation is limited. Instead, local residents make substantial contributions outside the state to the provision of public goods. That is, they engage in what we call social extraction rather than state taxation. This article conceptualizes social extraction and the social institutions that drive extraction. Furthermore, it considers variations in the content of social institutions, and it proposes research agendas that allow us to understand how social institutions impact resource mobilization and development at the community level. It draws lessons from a large, cross-disciplinary literature that includes work in anthropology, sociology, economics, psychology, and political science.
Political Trust in a Cynical Age
Authors: Citrin Jack , Stoker Laura
Published: February 2018

This article reviews recent survey-based research on citizens’ trust in government, focusing particularly on the United States. It addresses the long-term decline in trust and potential causes for this decline, with an emphasis on the effects of partisanship, polarization, performance, process, and media priming. While dispositions can anchor trust levels, the dominant research findings show that the sources of variation and change in trust are political, if multifaceted, in nature. We discuss new versions of standard measures, call for a renewed look at the distinction between trust in authorities and trust in the regime, review ongoing work on how and why trust matters, and recommend broadening the foci of mistrust to include antiestablishment sentiments and attacks on electoral integrity. How trust intervenes between perceptions of political processes and compliance with authoritative commands is a critical domain for additional research. We conclude with a caveat against confidence that the decline in trust can be quickly or easily reversed.
Advances in Survey Methods for the Developing World
Authors: Lupu Noam , Michelitch Kristin
Published: February 2018

Political scientists are fielding more and more surveys in the developing world. Yet, most survey research methodology derives from experiences in developed countries. Researchers working in the developing world often confront very different challenges to collecting high-quality data. Census data may be unreliable or outdated, enumerators may shirk, political topics may be sensitive, and respondents may be unaccustomed to and uncomfortable with an interview format. In this article, we review both published methodological research and the best practices of scholars based on an original expert survey of survey researchers. We characterize the state of the field and provide insights about the range of available options for implementing surveys in the developing world. We examine and assess innovations across many aspects of survey implementation, including sampling, enumeration, data collection, ethical considerations, and reporting. We also offer suggestions for future methodological inquiry and for greater research transparency.
A Highly Sensitive and Selective Colorimetric Hg2+ Ion Probe Using Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Polyethyleneimine
Authors: Kim Kyung Min , Nam Yun-Sik , Lee Yeonhee , Lee Kang-Bong
Published: February 2018

A highly sensitive and selective colorimetric assay for the detection of Hg2+ ions was developed using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) conjugated with polyethyleneimine (PEI). The Hg2+ ion coordinates with PEI, decreasing the interparticle distance and inducing aggregation. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry showed that the Hg2+ ion was bound to the nitrogen atoms of the PEI in a bidentate manner (N–Hg2+–N), which resulted in a significant color change from light red to violet due to aggregation. Using this PEI-AuNP probe, determination of Hg2+ ion can be achieved by the naked eye and spectrophotometric methods. Pronounced color change of the PEI-AuNPs in the presence of Hg2+ was optimized at pH 7.0, 50°C, and 300 mM·NaCl concentration. The absorption intensity ratio (A700/A514) was correlated with the Hg2+ concentration in the linear range of 0.003–5.0 μM. The limits of detection were measured to be 1.72, 1.80, 2.00, and 1.95 nM for tap water, pond water, tuna fish, and bovine serum, respectively. Owing to its facile and sensitive nature, this assay method for Hg2+ ions can be applied to the analysis of water and biological samples.
Mast Cell, the Neglected Member of the Tumor Microenvironment: Role in Breast Cancer
Authors: Aponte-López Angélica , Fuentes-Pananá Ezequiel M. , Cortes-Muñoz Daniel , Muñoz-Cruz Samira
Published: February 2018

Mast cells are unique tissue-resident immune cells that secrete a diverse array of biologically active compounds that can stimulate, modulate, or suppress the immune response. Although mounting evidence supports that mast cells are consistently infiltrating tumors, their role as either a driving or an opposite force for cancer progression is still controversial. Particularly, in breast cancer, their function is still under discussion. While some studies have shown a protective role, recent evidence indicates that mast cells enhance blood and lymphatic vessel formation. Interestingly, one of the most important components of the mast cell cargo, the serine protease tryptase, is a potent angiogenic factor, and elevated serum tryptase levels correlate with bad prognosis in breast cancer patients. Likewise, histamine is known to induce tumor cell proliferation and tumor growth. In agreement, mast cell depletion reduces the size of mammary tumors and metastasis in murine models that spontaneously develop breast cancer. In this review, we will discuss the evidence supporting protumoral and antitumoral roles of mast cells, emphasizing recent findings placing mast cells as important drivers of tumor progression, as well as the potential use of these cells or their mediators as therapeutic targets.
Analysis of a Pulse Rate Variability Measurement Using a Smartphone Camera
Authors: Bánhalmi András , Borbás János , Fidrich Márta , Bilicki Vilmos , Gingl Zoltán , Rudas László
Published: February 2018

Background. Heart rate variability (HRV) provides information about the activity of the autonomic nervous system. Because of the small amount of data collected, the importance of HRV has not yet been proven in clinical practice. To collect population-level data, smartphone applications leveraging photoplethysmography (PPG) and some medical knowledge could provide the means for it. Objective. To assess the capabilities of our smartphone application, we compared PPG (pulse rate variability (PRV)) with ECG (HRV). To have a baseline, we also compared the differences among ECG channels. Method. We took fifty parallel measurements using iPhone 6 at a 240 Hz sampling frequency and Cardiax PC-ECG devices. The correspondence between the PRV and HRV indices was investigated using correlation, linear regression, and Bland-Altman analysis. Results. High PPG accuracy: the deviation of PPG-ECG is comparable to that of ECG channels. Mean deviation between PPG-ECG and two ECG channels: RR: 0.01 ms–0.06 ms, SDNN: 0.78 ms–0.46 ms, RMSSD: 1.79 ms–1.21 ms, and pNN50: 2.43%–1.63%. Conclusions. Our iPhone application yielded good results on PPG-based PRV indices compared to ECG-based HRV indices and to differences among ECG channels. We plan to extend our results on the PPG-ECG correspondence with a deeper analysis of the different ECG channels.
Antitumor Mechanisms of Curcumae Rhizoma Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Bi Yan-Hua , Zhang Li-hua , Chen Shao-jun , Ling Qing-zhi
Published: February 2018

Curcumae Rhizoma, a traditional Chinese medication, is commonly used in both traditional treatment and modern clinical care. Its anticancer effects have attracted a great deal of attention, but the mechanisms of action remain obscure. In this study, we screened for the active compounds of Curcumae Rhizoma using a drug‐likeness approach. Candidate protein targets with functions related to cancer were predicted by reverse docking and then checked by manual search of the PubMed database. Potential target genes were uploaded to the GeneMANIA server and DAVID 6.8 database for analysis. Finally, compound‐target, target‐pathway, and compound‐target‐pathway networks were constructed using Cytoscape 3.3. The results revealed that the anticancer activity of Curcumae Rhizoma potentially involves 13 active compounds, 33 potential targets, and 31 signaling pathways, thus constituting a “multiple compounds, multiple targets, and multiple pathways” network corresponding to the concept of systematic actions in TCM. These findings provide an overview of the anticancer action of Curcumae Rhizoma from a network perspective, as well as setting an example for future studies of other materials used in TCM.
The Role of Serum CK18, TIMP1, and MMP-9 Levels in Predicting R0 Resection in Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Peduk Sevki , Tatar Cihad , Dincer Mursit , Ozer Bahri , Kocakusak Ahmet , Citlak Gamze , Akinci Muzaffer , Tuzun Ishak Sefa
Published: February 2018

Gastric cancer is the third most common cause of death in men and the fifth common cause of death in women worldwide. Currently, available advanced imaging modalities can predict R0 resection in most patients in the perioperative period. The aim of this study is to determine the role of serum CK18, MMP-9, and TIMP1 levels in predicting R0 resection in patients with gastric cancer. Fifty consecutive patients scheduled for curative surgery with gastric adenocancer diagnosis between 2013 and 2015 were included in the study. One milliliter of blood was taken from the patients included in the study to examine CK18, MMP-9, and TIMP1. CK18, MMP-9, and TIMP1 levels were positively correlated with pathological N and the stage (P<0.05). The CK18, MMP-9, and TIMP1 averages of those with positive clinical lymph nodes and those in clinical stage 3 were found to be higher than the averages of those with negative clinical lymph nodes and those in clinical stage 2 (P<0.05). Although serum CK18, MMP-9, and TIMP1 preop measurements in patients scheduled for curative surgery due to gastric adenocarcinoma did not help to gain any idea of tumor resectability, we concluded that our study had valuable results in significantly predicting N3 stage.
Hemangiosarcoma in a Dog: Unusual Presentation and Increased Survival Using a Complementary/Holistic Approach Combined with Metronomic Chemotherapy
Authors: Chaikin Philip , Welihozkiy Anja
Published: February 2018

This case report documents the clinical and pathologic findings in a 12-year-old terrier mix with intraocular and splenic hemangiosarcoma. Pathologic findings in both the spleen and globe were consistent with hemangiosarcoma with a low mitotic count. Initial treatment consisted of enucleation and then splenectomy followed by one cycle of conventional doxorubicin chemotherapy. Due to poor tolerance, a subsequent treatment regimen consisted of metronomic chemotherapy with chlorambucil combined with an alternative/complementary regimen of I’m-Yunity (polysaccharopeptide) and Yunnan Baiyao. Follow-up thoracic radiographs and abdominal ultrasounds over a period of 24 months showed no evidence of pulmonary, hepatic, or right atrial metastases, during which time the patient had an excellent quality of life. However, shortly after achieving two-year survival, the patient developed new onset seizures unresponsive to anticonvulsant therapy. Therefore, a decision was made to euthanize the dog given that the most likely etiology of the seizures was a brain tumor. Overall, this is an exceptional treatment response given the poor survival statistics of hemangiosarcoma even with conventional chemotherapy. However, additional clinical pharmacology and clinical trial data are needed to further support the use of a complementary/holistic approach in combination with metronomic chemotherapy.
Therapeutic Effect of Cucumis melo L. Extract on Insulin Resistance and the Gut Microbiome in Lepob/Lepob Mice
Authors: Lee Daeun , Yoo Jung Hwa , Lee Byung-Cheol
Published: February 2018

Obesity results in the progression of metabolic disorders, especially type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Obesity‐induced insulin resistance (IR) is a causative factor of T2DM morbidity in obese people. It is generally held by clinicians that IR is caused by adiposity‐related inflammation that is mediated by changes in composite ions in the gut microbiome. This experimental study was designed to investigate the effects of Cucumis melo L. (Cucumis) on obesity‐induced IR in genetically leptin‐deficient Lep ob/Lepob mice. Specifically, we examined the anti‐inflammatory effects of Cucumis and the effects of Cucumis on the gut microbiota. We evaluated glucose control by measuring FBS, performing the OGTT, quantifying serum IR, calculating the HOMA‐IR, and determining the lipid profiles. To see whether inflammation was reduced, we analyzed adipose tissue macrophages as well as monocytes in the blood. We also profiled the gut microbiota to determine whether the ratios of microbial phyla changed. We found that Cucumis improved IR in obese mice and relieved inflammation in adipose tissue and blood. Simultaneously, the microbiota composition ratios changed. In conclusion, administration of Cucumis improved IR by reducing inflammation, thereby changing the gut microbiota composition. Cucumis is thus a promising treatment for obesity‐induced insulin resistance and the inflammatory state.
The Effect of an Authentic Acute Physical Education Session of Dance on Elementary Students’ Selective Attention
Authors: Kulinna P. H. , Stylianou M. , Dyson B. , Banville D. , Dryden C. , Colby R.
Published: February 2018

There have been calls to test the potential benefits of different forms of physical activity (PA) to executive function, particularly in authentic settings. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an acute dance session within an existing physical education class on students’ selective attention. The study employed a pre/posttest quasi-experimental design with a comparison group in one Aotearoa, New Zealand, primary school. Participants were 192 students (comparison group = 104 students) in Years 5 and 6. The intervention group participated in a dance-based physical education lesson while the comparison group continued their regular classroom work. PA during the physical education lesson was monitored using accelerometers. Selective attention was assessed at pretest and after the comparison/physical education sessions with the d2 Test of Attention. 2 × 2 ANOVA results suggested a significant time effect for all three measures, no significant group effects for any measures, and significant time by group interactions for TN and CP but not for E%. The intervention group improved significantly more than the comparison group for TN and CP. This study’s findings suggest that existing school opportunities focused on cognitively engaging PA, such as dance, can improve aspects of students’ selective attention.
Development and Validation of Gas Chromatography-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometric Method for Quantitative Determination of Regulated Plasticizers in Medical Infusion Sets
Authors: Jeon So Hyeon , Kim Yong Pyo , Kho Younglim , Shin Jeoung Hwa , Ji Won Hyun , Ahn Yun Gyong
Published: February 2018

A method for the quantitative determination of dibutyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP), dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), and diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP) in medical infusion sets was developed and validated using gas chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Solvent extraction with polymer dissolution for sample preparation was employed prior to GC-MS/MS analysis. Average recoveries of the eight target analytes are typically in the range of 91.8–122% with the relative standard deviations of 1.8–17.8%. The limits of quantification (LOQs) of the analytical method were in the ranges of 54.1 to 76.3 ng/g. Analysis using GC-MS/MS provided reliable performance, as well as higher sensitivity and selectivity than GC-MS analysis, especially for the presence of minority plasticizers at different concentrations.
Treatment of Acute Psychosis with Second-Generation Antipsychotics in a Patient with Left Temporal Lobe Lesion
Authors: Shehane Richard , Miller Steve , Suber Luke , Chakos Miranda
Published: February 2018

We present a case of rapid onset severe psychosis followed by suicide attempt in a United States Navy sailor. Investigation revealed a left temporal lobe brain mass suspicious for low-grade glioma. After hospitalization and medical management with olanzapine and lurasidone the patient’s psychosis improved. The purpose of this paper is to add to the existing case reports that suggest a relationship between temporal lobe lesions and psychiatric illness, specifically psychosis. In addition, this case adds insight into the effectiveness of medical therapy for brain tumor patients that are not immediate candidates for neurosurgical intervention.
CXCL12γ Promotes Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer by Inducing Cancer Stem Cell and Neuroendocrine Phenotypes
Authors: Jung Younghun , Cackowski Frank C. , Yumoto Kenji , Decker Ann M. , Wang Jingcheng , Kim Jin Koo , Lee Eunsohl , Wang Yugang , Chung Jae-Seung , Gursky Amy M. , Krebsbach Paul H. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Morgan Todd M. , Taichman Russell S.
Published: February 2018

There is evidence that cancer stem-like cells (CSC) and neuroendocrine behavior play critical roles in the pathogenesis and clinical course of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (m-CRPC). However, there is limited mechanistic understanding of how CSC and neuroendocrine phenotypes impact the development of m-CRPC. In this study, we explored the role of the intracellular chemokine CXCL12γ in CSC induction and neuroendocrine differentiation and its impact on m-CRPC. CXCL12γ expression was detected in small-cell carcinoma of metastatic tissues and circulating tumor cells from m-CRPC patients and in prostate cancer cells displaying an neuroendocrine phenotype. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that overexpression of CXCL12γ induced CSC and neuroendocrine phenotypes in prostate cancer cells through CXCR4-mediated PKCα/NFκB signaling, which promoted prostate tumor outgrowth, metastasis, and chemoresistance in vivo. Together, our results establish a significant function for CXCL12γ in m-CRPC development and suggest it as a candidate therapeutic target to control aggressive disease.

Significance: Expression of CXCL12γ induces the expression of a cancer stem cell and neuroendocrine phenotypes, resulting in the development of aggressive m-CRPC. Cancer Res; 78(8); 2026–39. ©2018 AACR.
Metabolic Syndrome Is Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Suspected Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Gholami Ali , Zamani Farhad , Hosseini Bayan , Sharafkhani Rahim , Maadi Mansooreh , Moosavi Jahromi Zahra , Khazaee-Pool Maryam , Sohrabi Masoudreza
Published: February 2018

Objective: This study was designed to examine the effect of metabolic syndrome (MetS) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with suspected nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Subjects and Methods: Three hundred thirty-two patients (236 males and 96 females) with suspected NASH from the Amol cohort study were included in this study. MetS was diagnosed based on Adult Treatment Panel III criteria and HRQOL was measured using the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) questionnaire (with 8 subscales and 2 summary components). A multivariable linear regression model was used to assess the independent effect of MetS on HRQOL. Results: The mean age of the study population was 42 ± 13 years (range 18–82). The prevalence of MetS was 43.4% (n = 144) and the mean scores on the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and the Mental Component Summary were 72.4 ± 20.86 and 42.7 ± 12.42, respectively. The multivariable linear regression model showed that MetS was negatively associated with 4 subscales of HRQOL that included: role limitations due to physical problems (RP) (B = –14.05, p = 0.004), bodily pain (BP) (B = –7.37, p = 0.02), vitality (VT) (B = –7.72, p = 0.022), and role limitations due to emotional problems (RE) (B = –12.67, p = 0.005) after adjustment for other variables. Also, MetS had a borderline association with the general health and mental health subscales and the PCS (p < 0.1). Conclusion: In this study, there was a strong association between MetS and 4 subscales (RP, BP, VT, and RE) of HRQOL in patients with suspected NASH; this could be considered as a part of health policy to improve general health.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ДІАГНОСТИКИ ТА ПРОГНОЗУВАННЯ ДИСГОРМОНАЛЬНИХ ЗАХВОРЮВАНЬ МОЛОЧНОЇ ЗАЛОЗИ У ЖІНОК ГРУПИ ВИСОКОГО РИЗИКУ ЗЛОЯКІСНИХ НОВОУТВОРЕНЬ
Authors: Heryak S. M. , Khinochik V. M.
Published: February 2018

Аналіз методик скринінгу раку молочної залози показує, що смертність серед жінок груп ризику, які взяли участь у профілактичній програмі лікування дифузних захворювань молочної залози, на 30–50 % нижче, ніж у групах, де профілактика раку молочної залози не проводилась. У контексті сказаного визначальну роль при підозрі/виявленні злоякісних захворювань молочної залози серед жінок слід відвести регулярним медичним оглядам, зокрема цільовому та профілактичному. Завдяки цьому Рівненщина займає одне з останніх місць в Україні за кількістю хворих на рак молочної залози. Отже, немає сумнівів, що своєчасна рання діагностика, адекватне лікування і профілактика дисгормональної патології молочної залози сприяє зниженню захворюваності.
ТЕОРЕТИЧНІ ОСНОВИ ПІДГОТОВКИ ФАХІВЦІВ СЕСТРИНСЬКОЇ СПРАВИ ДО ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ
Authors: Melnychuk I. M. , Stasiuk I. L.
Published: February 2018

У статті окреслено та проаналізовано сутність теоретичних основ підготовки майбутніх фахівців сестринської справи до професійної діяльності.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПЕРЕБІГУ ХРОНІЧНОГО ОБСТРУКТИВНОГО ЗАХВОРЮВАНня ЛЕГЕНЬ В ОСІБ СТАРШОГО ВІКУ
Authors: Boguta Yu. H. , Maksiv H. Ya. , Hevko U. P. , Mialiuk O. P. , Maruschak M. I.
Published: February 2018

Отримані дані вказують на те, що хронічне обструктивне захворювання легень в осіб старшого віку часто поєднується з серцево-судинною патологією. Тому первинна профілактика повинна включати основні фактори хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень – тютюнокуріння і часті респіраторні захворювання, вторинна профілактика хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень має бути спрямована на попередження розвитку системних уражень на фоні досліджуваної патології. Враховуючи те, що наше дослідження встановило високу частоту хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень та ішемічної хвороби серця і хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень та гіпертонічної хвороби у пацієнтів обох статей ІІІ ступеня тяжкості порушень прохідності дихальних шляхів, проведення просвітницької роботи середнім медичним персоналом має включати профілактику як хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень, так і кардіологічних патологій.
Selective Mineralocorticoid Receptor Cofactor Modulation as Molecular Basis for Finerenone’s Antifibrotic Activity
Authors: Grune Jana , Beyhoff Niklas , Smeir Elia , Chudek Remigiusz , Blumrich Annelie , Ban Zsofia , Brix Sarah , Betz Iris R. , Schupp Michael , Foryst-Ludwig Anna , Klopfleisch Robert , Stawowy Philipp , Houtman René , Kolkhof Peter , Kintscher Ulrich
Published: February 2018

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) reduce morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure. Novel nonsteroidal MRAs are currently developed and need to be pharmacologically characterized in comparison to classical steroidal MRAs. A mouse model of cardiac fibrosis induced by short-term isoproterenol injection was used to compare the nonsteroidal MRA finerenone and the steroidal MRA eplerenone in equi-efficient systemic MR blocking dosages. Molecular mechanisms were studied in MR-expressing H9C2/MR+ cardiomyocytes and in MR transcriptional cofactor binding assays. Both MRAs significantly inhibited an isoproterenol-mediated increase of left ventricular mass. Isoproterenol-induced cardiac fibrosis and macrophage invasion were potently blocked by finerenone, whereas eplerenone had no significant effect. Speckle tracking echocardiography revealed a significant improvement of global longitudinal peak strain by finerenone, an effect less prominent with eplerenone. Antifibrotic actions of finerenone were accompanied by a significant inhibition of profibrotic cardiac
TNX
(
tenascin-X
) expression, a regulation absent with eplerenone. Finally, we show a higher potency/efficacy and inverse agonism of finerenone versus eplerenone in MR transcriptional cofactor binding assays indicating differential MR cofactor modulation by steroidal and nonsteroidal MRAs. This study demonstrates that the nonsteroidal MRA finerenone potently prevents cardiac fibrosis and improves strain parameters in mice. Cardiac antifibrotic actions of finerenone may result from the inhibition of profibrotic TNX gene expression mediated by differential MR cofactor binding. Selective MR cofactor modulation provides a molecular basis for distinct (pre)-clinical actions of nonsteroidal and steroidal MRAs.
Susceptibility to Hypertensive Renal Disease in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat Is Influenced by 2 Loci Affecting Blood Pressure and Immunoglobulin Repertoire
Authors: Dhande Isha S. , Cranford Stacy M. , Zhu Yaming , Kneedler Sterling C. , Hicks M. John , Wenderfer Scott E. , Braun Michael C. , Doris Peter A.
Published: February 2018

High blood pressure exerts its deleterious effects on health largely through acceleration of end-organ diseases. Among these, progressive loss of renal function is particularly important, not only for the direct consequences of kidney damage but also because loss of renal function is associated with amplification of other adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Genetic susceptibility to hypertension and associated end-organ disease is non-Mendelian in both humans and in a rodent model, the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). Here, we report that hypertensive end-organ disease in the inbred SHR-A3 line is attributable to genetic variation in the immunoglobulin heavy chain on chromosome 6. This variation coexists with variation in a 10 Mb block on chromosome 17 that contains genetic variation in 2 genes involved in immunoglobulin Fc receptor signaling. Substitution of these genomic regions into the SHR-A3 genome from the closely related, but injury-resistant, SHR-B2 line normalizes both biomarker and histological measures of renal injury. Our findings indicate that genetic variation leads to a contribution by immune mechanisms hypertensive end-organ injury and that, in this rat model, disease is influenced by differences in germ line antibody repertoire.
Moral Perception and the Reliability Challenge
Authors: Faraci David
Published: February 2018

Given a traditional intuitionist moral epistemology, it is notoriously difficult for moral realists to explain the reliability of our moral beliefs. This has led some to go looking for an alternative to intuitionism. Perception is an obvious contender. I previously argued that this is a dead end, that all moral perception is dependent on a priori moral knowledge. This suggests that perceptualism merely moves the bump in the rug where the reliability challenge is concerned. Preston Werner responds that my account rests on an overly intellectualized model of perception. In this paper, I argue that though Werner may well be correct, my arguments, properly extended, still suggest that perceptualism leaves realists in no better position than intuitionism when it comes to the reliability challenge.
How Wrong is Paternalism?
Authors: Birks David
Published: February 2018

In this paper, I argue against the commonly held view that paternalism is all things considered wrong when it interferes with a person’s autonomy. I begin by noting that the plausibility of this view rests on the assumption that there is a morally relevant difference in the normative reasons concerning an intervention in a person’s self-regarding actions and an intervention in his other-regarding actions. I demonstrate that this assumption cannot be grounded by wellbeing reasons, and that autonomy-based reasons of non-interference also cannot adequately explain the difference. Following this, I propose that the difference in the reasons related to an intervention in a person’s self-regarding actions and an intervention in his other-regarding actions can be explained by the value of holding a person responsible for his choices. Nonetheless, this does not result in paternalistic behavior that interferes with autonomy being all things considered wrong. Instead, I show that the reason to hold a person responsible for a diminution of his wellbeing does not necessarily defeat the wellbeing reasons that count in favor of paternalistic behavior.
The Anthropocentric Ontology of International Environmental Law and the Sustainable Development Goals: Towards an Ecocentric Rule of Law in the Anthropocene
Authors: Kotzé Louis J. , French Duncan
Published: February 2018

In this article we argue that the Anthropocene’s deepening socio-ecological crisis amplifies demands on, and exposes the deficiencies of, our ailing regulatory institutions, including that of international environmental law (iel). Many of the perceived failures of iel have been attributed to the anthropocentric, as opposed to the ecocentric, ontology of this body of law. As a result of its anthropocentric orientation and the resultant deficiencies, iel is unable to halt the type of human behaviour that is causing the Anthropocene, while it exacerbates environmental destruction, gender and class inequalities, growing inter- and intra-species hierarchies, human rights abuses, and socio-economic and ecological injustices. These are the same types of concerns that the recently proclaimed Sustainable Development Goals (sdgs) set out to address. The sdgs are, however, themselves anthropocentric; an unfortunate situation which reinforces the anthropocentrism of iel and vice versa. Considering the anthropocentric genesis of iel and the broader sdgs framework, this article sets out to argue that the anthropocentrism inherent in the ontological orientation of iel and the sdgs risks exacerbating Anthropocene-like events, and a more ecocentric orientation for both is urgently required to enable a more ecocentric rule of law to better mediate the human-environment interface in the Anthropocene. Our point of departure is that respect for ecological limits is the only way in which humankind, acting as principal global agents of care, will be able to ensure a sustainable future for human and non-human constituents of the Earth community. Correspondingly, the rule of law must also come to reflect such imperatives.
An inordinate fondness for Osedax (Siboglinidae: Annelida): Fourteen new species of bone worms from California
Authors: ROUSE GREG W. , GOFFREDI SHANA K. , JOHNSON SHANNON B. , VRIJENHOEK ROBERT C.
Published: February 2018

We incorporate DNA sequences from a comprehensive sampling of taxa to provide an updated phylogeny of Osedax and discuss the remarkable diversity of this clade of siboglinids. We formally describe 14 new species of Osedax from Monterey Bay, California, USA, raising the total number of properly named Osedax species to 25. These new species had formerly been recognized by informal names in various publications, and on GenBank. The descriptions document the occurrence of dwarf males in five of the new species. The distribution for the 19 species of Osedax known to occur in Monterey Bay across depths from 385 to 2898 meters and various bone substrates is documented. The exploitation of extant bird and marine turtle bones by Osedax is reported for the first time.
Satellite Investigation of the M2 Internal Tide in the Tasman Sea
Authors: Zhao Zhongxiang , Alford Matthew H. , Simmons Harper L. , Brazhnikov Dmitry , Pinkel Rob
Published: February 2018

The M2 internal tide in the Tasman Sea is investigated using sea surface height measurements made by multiple altimeter missions from 1992 to 2012. Internal tidal waves are extracted by two-dimensional plane wave fits in 180 km by 180 km windows. The results show that the Macquarie Ridge radiates three internal tidal beams into the Tasman Sea. The northern and southern beams propagate respectively into the East Australian Current and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current and become undetectable to satellite altimetry. The central beam propagates across the Tasman Sea, impinges on the Tasmanian continental slope, and partially reflects. The observed propagation speeds agree well with theoretical values determined from climatological ocean stratification. Both the northern and central beams refract about 15° toward the equator because of the beta effect. Following a concave submarine ridge in the source region, the central beam first converges around 45.5°S, 155.5°E and then diverges beyond the focal region. The satellite results reveal two reflected internal tidal beams off the Tasmanian slope, consistent with previous numerical simulations and glider measurements. The total energy flux from the Macquarie Ridge into the Tasman Sea is about 2.2 GW, of which about half is contributed by the central beam. The central beam loses little energy in its first 1000-km propagation, for which the likely reasons include flat bottom topography and weak mesoscale eddies.
Severe Unintentional Injuries to Ohio Children: What We Should Be Addressing at Well-Child Visits
Authors: Wurster Ovalle Victoria M. , Pomerantz Wendy J. , Gittelman Michael A.
Published: February 2018

This was a retrospective study examining severe injuries to Ohio children in order to provide pediatricians with targeted injury talking points at well visits. We included children ≤14 years old from the Ohio Trauma Acute Care Registry with severe unintentional injuries from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2012. There were 45 347 patients; 611 died, and the mean age was 6.8 years. Fractures/dislocations were common (46.6%), and many injuries occurred at home (49.1%). In children ≤2 years old, the leading causes of injury were falls and burns/fire; falls and motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) predominated above this age. Leading causes of death were MVCs, drowning, and suffocation. We concluded that national data may not always reflect state-specific injury patterns. In Ohio, though falls and MVCs were the most common mechanisms, fire and drowning also caused significant injury. Given limited time to discuss injury prevention, pediatricians should concentrate on statewide injuries.
Backdoor peacekeeping
Authors: Lundgren Magnus
Published: February 2018

I advance and test a theoretical argument of how participation in UN peacekeeping affects the likelihood of coup attempts in troop-contributing countries (TCCs). The argument highlights the interplay between the economic incentives of militaries in poor TCCs and the UN’s preference for contributors with stable civil–military relations. Fearing the loss of UN reimbursement funds, militaries for which such funds are important will avoid visible acts of military insubordination, such as coup attempts, that would place their future participation in UN peacekeeping at risk. I test this proposition against time-series cross-sectional data on 157 countries in the 1991–2013 period using panel regression and matching. The data show that countries where the armed forces are more dependent on peacekeeping revenues experience fewer coup attempts than comparable peers, even when taking coup-proofing measures and other alternative explanations into account. I also find that the coup-restraining effect is only observed in periods where member states contribute enough troops to award the UN a real choice over alternative contributors. The study introduces a novel theoretic logic, presents empirical results at odds with the existing literature, and suggests important policy implications with regard to UN vetting and standards for troop-contributing countries.
Does environmental peacemaking between states work? Insights on cooperative environmental agreements and reconciliation in international rivalries
Authors: Ide Tobias
Published: February 2018

The literature on environmental peacemaking argues that cooperation in the face of shared environmental challenges can facilitate further cooperation, trust building, and eventually peace between states in conflict. Empirical research on environmental peacemaking, predominantly conducted in the form of single case studies, has so far been inconclusive. This article uses a cross-case, multimethod research design to test the environmental peacemaking proposition. More specifically, it argues that the conclusion of a cooperative environmental agreement can have a positive impact on reconciliation between rival states. Based on a new dataset on international rivalry termination, transboundary protected areas, and international freshwater agreements, this article first conducts a statistical analysis and a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). The results are then verified and refined by six case studies. Triangulation of findings from the three studies suggests that the conclusion of a cooperative environmental agreement facilitates reconciliation in international rivalries. But this effect is contingent on a number of scope conditions, such as high environmental attention, internal political stability, wider patterns or traditions of environmental cooperation, and already ongoing processes of reconciliation. Still, the findings imply that environmental challenges do not only affect peace and security in a negative way. Addressing them jointly also opens opportunities for peacemaking and peacebuilding between states.
Organ donation
Authors: Samuels Alec
Published: February 2018

Department of Health is consulting on opt-in or opt-out for organ donation for transplantation. Merits and demerits. Cooperation between doctors and the family is essential.
Murder on Maneuver: Exploring Green-on-Blue Attacks in Afghanistan
Authors: Shortland Neil , Nader Elias , Sari Huseyin , Palasinski Marek , Hilland Casey
Published: February 2018

Green-on-blue attacks have a devastating psychological, tactical, and operational effect on military operations in Afghanistan. In spite of this, no empirical research has offered a data-driven examination of these attacks, leaving a gap that this article aims to address. By analyzing a large (yet inevitability incomplete) open-source database developed on these attacks, we present data on the perpetrators and victims of these attacks. We also investigate whether green-on-blue attacks are related to the number of civilian casualties in that area; finding that (unlike wider insurgent violence) they are not. Instead, we find that it is the number of troops present within a Regional Command that is positively correlated with the likelihood that a green-on-blue attack will occur. We discuss the implications of these findings with reference to future issues of force protection.
Effect of accelerometer-based feedback on physical activity in hospitalized patients with ischemic stroke: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kanai Masashi , Izawa Kazuhiro P , Kobayashi Miki , Onishi Akira , Kubo Hiroki , Nozoe Masafumi , Mase Kyoshi , Shimada Shinichi
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of accelerometer-based feedback on physical activity in hospitalized patients with ischemic stroke.

Design:

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Acute care hospital.

Subjects:

A total of 55 patients with ischemic stroke who could walk without assistance were randomly assigned to the intervention group ( n = 27) or the control group ( n = 28).

Interventions:

At the baseline measurement, patients did not receive accelerometer-based feedback. At follow-up, a physical therapist provided instruction on accelerometer-based feedback, discussed physical activity targets and encouraged the patients to walk more until discharge.

Main measures:

The average daily number of steps taken was used as the index of daily hospitalized physical activity.

Results:

The study sample consisted of 48 patients, of whom 23 patients comprised the intervention group and 25 patients comprised the control group. Although there were no significant differences in physical activity values between the two groups at the baseline measurement, the values in the intervention group at follow-up were significantly higher than those in the control group (5180.5 ± 2314.9 vs. 3113.6 ± 1150.9 steps/day, P = 0.0003). The effect size of physical activity values (Cohen’s d = 1.15) at follow-up was large between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Exercise training combined with accelerometer-based feedback effectively increased physical activity in hospitalized patients with ischemic stroke.
Open communication strategies between a triad of ‘experts’ facilitates death in usual place of residence: A realist evaluation
Authors: Dalkin Sonia , Lhussier Monique , Jones Diana , Phillipson Pete , Cunningham William
Published: February 2018

Background:

In order to meet policy drivers on death in usual place of residence, it is key to understand how shared decision-making can be facilitated in practice. An integrated care pathway was implemented in primary care in the North East of England to facilitate death in usual place of residence.

Aim:

To understand how, for whom and in which circumstances death in usual place of residence is facilitated.

Design:

A mixed method realist evaluation was employed. Local primary care practice death audit data were analysed to identify outcomes using a mixed effects logistic regression model. Focus groups and interviews with staff of the integrated care pathway and bereaved relatives were analysed to identify the related contexts and mechanisms.

Setting/participants:

Death audit data of 4182 patients were readily available from 14 general practitioner practices. Three focus groups were conducted with primary and secondary care staff, voluntary sector organisations and care home representatives. Interviews with bereaved relatives were carried out in participants’ homes ( n = 5).

Results:

A mixed effects logistic regression model indicated a significant effect of year on death in usual place of residence when compared to a model without year using an analysis of deviance ( p = 0.016). Qualitative analysis suggested that this outcome was achieved when a triad of ‘experts’ (comprising patient, family members/family carers/formal carers and healthcare professionals) used open communication strategies.

Conclusion:

An empirically supported theory of how, for whom and in which circumstances death in usual place of residence happens is provided, which has important implications for both policy and practice.
Evolution of the neurochemical profiles in the G93A-SOD1 mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Lei Hongxia , Dirren Elisabeth , Poitry-Yamate Carole , Schneider Bernard L , Gruetter Rolf , Aebischer Patrick
Published: February 2018

In vivo 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) investigations of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mouse brain may provide neurochemical profiles and alterations in association with ALS disease progression. We aimed to longitudinally follow neurochemical evolutions of striatum, brainstem and motor cortex of mice transgenic for G93A mutant human superoxide dismutase type-1 (G93A-SOD1), an ALS model. Region-specific neurochemical alterations were detected in asymptomatic G93A-SOD1 mice, particularly in lactate (−19%) and glutamate (+8%) of brainstem, along with γ-amino-butyric acid (−30%), N-acetyl-aspartate (−5%) and ascorbate (+51%) of motor cortex. With disease progression towards the end-stage, increased numbers of metabolic changes of G93A-SOD1 mice were observed (e.g. glutamine levels increased in the brainstem (>+66%) and motor cortex (>+54%)). Through ALS disease progression, an overall increase of glutamine/glutamate in G93A-SOD1 mice was observed in the striatum ( p < 0.01) and even more so in two motor neuron enriched regions, the brainstem and motor cortex ( p < 0.0001). These 1H-MRS data underscore a pattern of neurochemical alterations that are specific to brain regions and to disease stages of the G93A-SOD1 mouse model. These neurochemical changes may contribute to early diagnosis and disease monitoring in ALS patients.