bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medicinal Plants from North and Central America and the Caribbean Considered Toxic for Humans: The Other Side of the Coin
Authors: Alonso-Castro Angel Josabad , Domínguez Fabiola , Ruiz-Padilla Alan Joel , Campos-Xolalpa Nimsi , Zapata-Morales Juan Ramón , Carranza-Alvarez Candy , Maldonado-Miranda Juan Jose
Published: November 2017

The consumption of medicinal plants has notably increased over the past two decades. People consider herbal products as safe because of their natural origin, without taking into consideration whether these plants contain a toxic principle. This represents a serious health problem. A bibliographic search was carried out using published scientific material on native plants from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, which describe the ethnobotanical and toxicological information of medicinal plants empirically considered to be toxic. A total of 216 medicinal plants belonging to 77 families have been reported as toxic. Of these plants, 76 had been studied, and 140 plants lacked studies regarding their toxicological effects. The toxicity of 16 plants species has been reported in clinical cases, particularly in children. From these plants, deaths have been reported with the consumption of Chenopodium ambrosioides, Argemone mexicana, and Thevetia peruviana. In most of the cases, the principle of the plant responsible for the toxicity is unknown. There is limited information about the toxicity of medicinal plants used in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. More toxicological studies are necessary to contribute information about the safe use of the medicinal plants cited in this review.
Functional Role of a Novel Long Noncoding RNA TTN-AS1 in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Lin Chenyu , Zhang Shengnan , Wang Ying , Wang Yuanshu , Nice Edouard , Guo Changying , Zhang Erhao , Yu Liting , Li Mengwei , Liu Chen , Hu Lirong , Hao Jingchao , Qi Weiyan , Xu Hanmei
Published: November 2017

Purpose: Emerging studies demonstrate that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) participate in the regulation of various cancers. In the current study, a novel lncRNA-TTN-AS1 has been identified and explored in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Experimental Design: To discover a new regulatory circuitry in which RNAs crosstalk with each other, the transcriptome of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA from ESCC and adjacent nonmalignant specimens were analyzed using multiple microarrays and diverse bioinformatics platforms. The functional role and mechanism of a novel lncRNA-TTN-AS1 were further investigated by gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays in vivo and in vitro. An ESCC biomarker panel, consisting of lncRNA-TTN-AS1, miR-133b, and FSCN1, was validated by qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization using samples from 148 patients.

Results: lncRNA-TTN-AS1 as an oncogene is highly expressed in ESCC tissues and cell lines, and promotes ESCC cell proliferation and metastasis. Mechanistically, lncRNA-TTN-AS1 promotes expression of transcription factor Snail1 by competitively binding miR-133b, resulting in the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) cascade. Moreover, lncRNA-TTN-AS1 also induces FSCN1 expression by sponging miR-133b and upregulation of mRNA-stabilizing protein HuR, which further promotes ESCC invasion cascades. We also discovered and validated a clinically applicable ESCC biomarker panel, consisting of lncRNA-TTN-AS1, miR-133b, and FSCN1, that is significantly associated with overall survival and provides additional prognostic evidence for ESCC patients.

Conclusions: As a novel regulator, lncRNA-TTN-AS1 plays an important role in ESCC cell proliferation and metastasis. The lncRNA-TTN-AS1/miR133b/FSCN1 regulatory axis provides bona fide targets for anti-ESCC therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 24(2); 486–98. ©2017 AACR.
Leser-Trélat Syndrome in a Male with Breast Carcinoma and Eyelid Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Garg Rajiv , Madan Siddharth , Prakash Pragya , Chander Ram , Choudhary Monisha
Published: November 2017

Purpose: Leser-Trélat syndrome consists of appearance of a solid tumor-like carcinoma breast, colon, or stomach following eruption of multiple seborrheic keratoses (SK) of the skin. We present an unusual and possibly the first case report of Leser-Trélat syndrome in a male patient with a history of mastectomy for breast carcinoma who presented to us with a second malignancy in the form of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the lower eyelid. Procedure: A 75-year-old male presented in 2014 with a history of modified radical mastectomy for infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the left breast which was performed 11 years prior to the day of presentation. Breast carcinoma was diagnosed following eruption of multiple SK at the same time. In the previous 3 years he noted a nodulo-ulcerative growth over the lateral aspect of the right lower eyelid which was clinically diagnosed as BCC. Mass excision under frozen section control and lid reconstruction was performed. Diagnosis of BCC was confirmed on histopathological examination of the excised specimen. Results and Conclusions: Though a previously unobserved entity, our case supports the importance of Leser-Trélat sign and its relevance to affected individuals, as early recognition and prompt treatment of a low-stage cancer offers good prognosis.
Extending the Neuroanatomic Territory of Diffuse Midline Glioma, K27M Mutant: Pineal Region Origin
Authors: Gilbert Andrea R. , Zaky Wafik , Gokden Murat , Fuller Christine E. , Ocal Eylem , Leeds Norman E. , Fuller Gregory N.
Published: November 2017

Diffuse midline glioma, H3-K27M mutant (DMG-K27M) is a newly described, molecularly distinct infiltrative glioma that almost exclusively arises in midline CNS structures, including the brain stem, especially the pons, as well as the thalamus and spinal cord with rare examples seen in the cerebellum, third ventricle, and hypothalamus. To our knowledge, only 1 case of a molecularly confirmed DMG-K27M arising in the pineal region has been previously reported. We present the second occurrence of a tissue-confirmed DMG-K27M of the pineal region, which, to our knowledge, is the first case reported in a child and the first case with documented preoperative MRI. This case, in addition to a prior report described in an adult, defines the lower end of a broad age range of DMG-K27M onset (12-65 years) and establishes the pineal gland as a bona fide site of origin for this newly codified midline glioma.
Development and Evaluation of Lipid Nanoparticles Containing Natural Botanical Oil for Sun Protection: Characterization and in vitro and in vivo Human Skin Permeation and Toxicity
Authors: Andréo-Filho Newton , Bim Antonio Vinicius Kosiski , Kaneko Telma Mary , Kitice Nidia Ayumi , Haridass Isha N. , Abd Eman , Santos Lopes Patricia , Thakur Sachin S. , Parekh Harendra S. , Roberts Michael S. , Grice Jeffrey E. , Benson Heather A.E. , Leite-Silva Vânia Rodrigues
Published: November 2017

The use of sunscreen products is widely promoted by schools, government agencies, and health-related organizations to minimize sunburn and skin damage. In this study, we developed stable solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) containing the chemical UV filter octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC). In parallel, we produced similar stable SLNs in which 20% of the OMC content was replaced by the botanical urucum oil. When these SLNs were applied to the skin of human volunteers, no changes in fluorescence lifetimes or redox ratios of the endogenous skin fluorophores were seen, suggesting that the formulations did not induce toxic responses in the skin. Ex vivo (skin diffusion) tests showed no significant penetration. In vitro studies showed that when 20% of the OMC was replaced by urucum oil, there was no reduction in skin protection factor (SPF), suggesting that a decrease in the amount of chemical filter may be a viable alternative for an effective sunscreen, in combination with an antioxidant-rich vegetable oil, such as urucum. There is a strong trend towards increasing safety of sun protection products through reduction in the use of chemical UV filters. This work supports this approach by producing formulations with lower concentrations of OMC, while maintaining the SPF. Further investigations of SPF in vivo are needed to assess the suitability of these formulations for human use.
Inhibition of the SOCS1-JAK2-STAT3 Signaling Pathway Confers Neuroprotection in Rats with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Xiao-Lei , Qiao Chun-Mei , Liu Jiong-Ou , Li Chun-Yang
Published: November 2017

Background: The present study aims to investigate the protective effects of the SOCS1-JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway on neurons in a rat model of ischemic stroke. Methods: Our study was conducted using an ischemic stroke rat model. After the microglia were extracted, 40 neonatal Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were assigned into the blank, AG490, model and negative control (NC) groups. The neurological function of all the rats was evaluated. Histopathological changes were observed. qRT-PCR and western blotting were applied to measure the expression of genes and proteins in the SOCS1-JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway and related to apoptosis. The TUNEL assay was conducted to calculate the cellular morphology and apoptosis of neuronal cells. Cell viability was detected using the MTT assay. In addition, immunoassays were used to measure the content of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as the levels of oxidative stress. Results: Compared with the blank group, the model and NC groups showed higher neurological function scores—the cytoplasm of the neurons were cavitated, the organelles were reduced with unclear margins, some of the neurons were necrotic, and apoptosis was increased. In addition, the NC and model groups exhibited decreased cell viability, lower mRNA and protein expression of SOCS1 SOCS3 and bcl-2 and reduced SOD and GSH levels but higher mRNA and protein expression levels of AK2, STAT3,Bax and caspase-3 as well as increased protein expression of P-JAK2, P-STAT3 and activated caspase-3 (c-caspase-3). Moreover, the MDA levels were up-regulated in the NC and model groups. In contrast, opposing trends were found in the AG490 group compared with the NC and model groups. Conclusion: These data demonstrate that inhibiting the SOCS1-JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway can reduce the loss of nerve function and apoptosis of neuronal cells, which provides a new target for the clinical treatment of ischemic stroke.
Elevated FOXC2 Expression Promotes Invasion of HCC Cell Lines and is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Fang , Lv Lizhi , Zhang Kun , Cai Qiucheng , Liu Jianyong , Jiang Yi
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Increasing evidence has indicated that Forkhead box protein C2 (FOXC2) plays an important role in carcinogenesis. However, the expression and the role of FOXC2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been extensively studied. Methods: FOXC2 expression was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry in HCC tissue and cells. The relationship between FOXC2 expression and patient clinical significance and survival were assessed by Pearson’s correlation and Kaplan-Meier analysis, respectively. Cell proliferation assays, colony formation assays, flow cytometric analysis and Transwell assays were employed to measure the effects of FOXC2 on HCC cells in vitro. Results: The expression of FOXC2 was increased in HCC tissue, and high FOXC2 expression was associated with worse patient survival. Knockdown of FOXC2 inhibited HCC cell growth, migration, and invasion in vitro, as well as tumor growth. Furthermore, we found that activation of AKT-mediated MMP-2 and MMP-9 was involved in FOXC2 promoting an aggressive phenotype. Conclusions: Taken together, these findings demonstrate that FOXC2 is upregulated in HCC tissue and is associated with tumor size, vascular invasion and advanced TNM stage. Further investigation suggested that FOXC2 may play a vital role in promoting proliferation and invasion in HCC and serves as a novel therapeutic target in HCC.
Effects of MicroRNA-499 On the Inflammatory Damage of Endothelial Cells During Coronary Artery Disease Via the Targeting of PDCD4 Through the NF-Κβ/TNF-α Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hong , He Keng , Shi Gang
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: This study aimed to analyze the impact of microRNA-499 (miR-499) on the inflammatory damage of endothelial cells during coronary artery disease (CAD) via the targeting of PDCD4 through the NF-kB/ TNF-α signaling pathway. Methods: A total of 216 CAD patients (CAD group) and 90 healthy people (normal group) were enrolled in our study. Endothelial cells were collected and assigned into normal, OX-LDL, negative control (NC), miR-499 inhibitor, miR-499 mimic, PDCD4 siRNA, and miR-499 inhibitor + PDCD4 siRNA groups. The qRT-PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the mRNA and protein expression levels of PDCD4 and miR-499. The MTT assay was performed to determine cell viability, ELISA was performed to determine the expression levels of inflammatory factors, and flow cytometry assay to evaluate cell apoptosis. Results: Increased miR-499 expression and decreased PDCD4 expression in the plasma were observed in the CAD group compared with the normal group, demonstrating a negative correlation between miR-499 and PDCD4. Compared to the normal and miR-499 inhibitor groups, the survival rate of cells and PDCD4 expression were decreased; and the expressions of miR-499, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-kB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and MCP-1 and the apoptosis rate were all elevated in the OX-LDL, NC, miR-499 mimic, PDCD4 siRNA and miR-499 inhibitor + PDCD4 siRNA groups. Compared to the OX-LDL, NC and miR-499 inhibitor + PDCD4 siRNA groups, PDCD4 expression and the survival rate of cells were increased; and the IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and MCP-1 expression levels and the apoptosis rate were all reduced in the miR-499 inhibitor group. In the PDCD4 siRNA group, PDCD4 expression and the survival rate of cells were lower, and the expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and MCP-1 and the apoptosis rate were all higher compared with the miR-499 mimic group. In the miR-499 inhibitor + PDCD4 siRNA group, PDCD4 expression and the survival rate of cells were higher, and the expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and MCP-1 and the apoptosis rate were all lower than those in the PDCD4 siRNA group. Conclusion: Down-regulated miR-499 expression increased PDCD4 expression and protected endothelial cells from inflammatory damage during CAD by inhibiting the NF-κB/TNF-α signaling pathway.
The Battle of Gibeah Reconsidered (Judges 20:29-48)
Authors: Naʼaman Nadav
Published: November 2017

In this article I discuss the episode of the Israelite-Benjaminite battle at Gibeah (Judges 20:29-48). The battle account suffers from many inconsistencies, and to date no satisfactory solution was suggested for its composition. I posit that the battle story has a unified framework (vv. 29-31a and 47-48), and this framework embraces two complete alternative accounts of the battle, each describing a different version of the event (vv. 31b-36a and 36b-46). Following a translation of the two accounts, I analyze each account seeking to show how it describes the related event. I then examine the diachronic and synchronic solutions offered for the way the text has emerged, seeking to clarify how it might have reached its garbled final form.
Synergie zwischen priesterlichem und göttlichem Handeln im Aaronitischen Segen (Num 6,22-27)
Authors: Geiger Michaela
Published: November 2017

The expression (יִשָּׂא יְהוָה פָּנָיו אֵלֶיךָNum 6,26) is unique in the Hebrew Bible and has not been fully explained yet. This article suggests that the preposition (אֶלNum 6,25.26) is the key to understanding, since it links Num 6,24-26 to Lev 9,22-24 (3 timesאֶל) as well as to the framing verses Num 6,22f.27 (3 timesאֶל). Semantical, redaction- and tradition-critical analyses prompt that the expressionיִשָּׂא יְהוָה פָּנָיו אֵלֶיךָwas created especially for the priestly blessing to evoke the imagination of being received before the divine king. The prepositionאֵלֶיךָin Num 6,25.26 emphasizes the relationship between God and the blessed individuals and alludes to the expressionוַיִּשָּׂא אַהֲרֹן אֶת־יָדוֹ אֶל־הָעָם וַיְבָרְכֵםin Lev 9,22: the priest’s gesture of blessing allows to perceive the presence of God. The liturgical formula was finally included into the Sinai pericope by a postpriestly redaction, along with the framing verses Num 6,22f.27.
“‘By Love, Serve One Another’: Foreign Mission and the Challenge of World Fellowship in the ywcas of Japan and Turkey”
Authors: Izzo Amanda L.
Published: November 2017

By the 1910s, the international consortium of women involved in the interdenominational Protestant Young Women’s Christian Association (ywca) faced a reckoning. Over the previous decade, a largely European and North Americanywcaleadership had expanded successfully what it called the “association movement” into countries it designated as foreign mission territories, establishing dozens of multifunctional community centers across the Asian continent. With their religious, educational, recreational, and vocational programming,ywcas proved adaptable to a wide variety of settings. This success, however, brought the challenge of indigenization, a challenge that sharpened as Western women came to terms with anti-colonial agitation and egalitarian Gospel rhetoric of foreign mission. Detailing theywcaof the United States’s administration of theywcas of Japan and Turkey in the early 20thCentury, this article contends that interpersonal and organizational negotiations of power ultimately gave rise to transnational partnerships that thrived as theu.s.women’s missionary movement ebbed.
Transboundary Waters, Infrastructure Development and Public Private Partnership
Authors: Paisley Richard , Denoon Riley , Etmanski Theressa , Weiler Patrick
Published: November 2017

Governments increasingly look to the private sector for the financing, design, construction, and operation of infrastructure projects, and as a result, public-private partnerships (ppps) have emerged as a valuable source for investment funds and expertise.ppps involving new uses of transboundary waters require giving particular attention to the huge potential for environmental and social impacts. This monograph examines whatppps are and how they, and environmental and social ‘safeguards,’ function in a transboundary waters context and with each other. This examination is undertaken through the prism of the Nam Theun 2 and Xayaburi hydroelectric power projects in Laopdr. This monograph discusses and draws some important lessons from theseppps contractual arrangements, costs, financing, and risk mitigation, forppps to be contemplated in other transboundary waters contexts.
Prodromus of a fern flora for Bolivia. VI. Psilotaceae
Authors: KESSLER MICHAEL , SMITH ALAN R.
Published: November 2017

We provide a synopsis to the family Psilotaceae in Bolivia, consisting of the single species Psilotum nudum.
The Inner-Core Temperature Structure of Hurricane Edouard (2014): Observations and Ensemble Variability
Authors: Munsell Erin B. , Zhang Fuqing , Braun Scott A. , Sippel Jason A. , Didlake Anthony C.
Published: November 2017

The inner-core thermodynamic structure of Hurricane Edouard (2014) is explored, primarily through an examination of both high-altitude dropsondes deployed during NASA’s Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel (HS3) and a 60-member convection-permitting ensemble initialized with an ensemble Kalman filter. The 7-day forecasts are initialized coincident with Edouard’s tropical depression designation and include Edouard’s significant intensification to a major hurricane. Ten-member ensemble groups are created based on timing of near–rapid intensification (RI) onset, and the associated composite inner-core temperature structures are analyzed. It is found that at Edouard’s peak intensity, in both the observations and the simulations, the maximum inner-core perturbation temperature (~10–12 K) occurs in the midlevels (~4–8 km). In addition, in all composite groups that significantly intensify, the evolution of the area-averaged inner-core perturbation temperatures indicate that weak to moderate warming (at most 4 K) begins to occur in the low to midlevels (~2–6 km) ~24–48 h prior to RI, and this warming significantly strengthens and deepens (up to ~8 km) ~24 h after RI has begun. Despite broad similarities in the evolution of Edouard’s warm core in these composites, variability in the height and strength of the maximum perturbation temperature and in the overall development of the inner-core temperature structure are present among the members of the composite groups (despite similar intensity time series). This result and concomitant correlation analyses suggest that the strength and height of the maximum perturbation temperature is not a significant causal factor for RI onset in this ensemble. Fluctuations in inner-core temperature structure occur either in tandem with or after significant intensity changes.
Do Temporary Dropouts Improve the Composition of Panel Data? An Analysis of “Gap Interviews” in the German Family Panel pairfam
Authors: Müller Bettina , Castiglioni Laura
Published: November 2017

In the context of cross-sectional surveys, the scope of research on the impact of response enhancing strategies on sample composition and nonresponse bias is vast. This topic has rarely been addressed for panel studies, however, although these are becoming an increasingly important data source in social research. In this article, we evaluate the impact of reissuing wave nonrespondents on sample composition and survey estimates in the German Family Panel pairfam. In light of concerns about an adequate representation of life changes in panel studies, we focus on whether temporary dropouts improve sample composition in this respect: Using retrospective information from these cases provided at reentry, we approximate the impact of “lost” reports of life changes due to attrition. Our analysis reveals that the inclusion of temporary dropouts does increase sample variability regarding life changes. However, example analyses indicate that substantive conclusions would not be compromised if temporary dropouts were excluded.
Relationship Between Ties With Adult Children and Life Satisfaction Among the Middle-Aged, the Young-Old, and the Oldest-Old Korean Adults
Authors: Chai Hye Won , Jun Hey Jung
Published: November 2017

One of the important determinants of well-being among aging parents is their relationship with adult children. Using the two waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing, this study examined how different types of ties with adult children affect the life satisfaction of the Korean middle-aged, the young-old, and the oldest-old adults. Multigroup analysis was used to see if the effects of ties with adult children differ by the three age-groups. The results showed that frequency of contact had positive effect on life satisfaction for all of the age-groups. However, coresidence with children had a negative effect for the middle-aged, but a positive effect for the oldest-old. Finally, exchanges of support with adult children had significant effects only for the young-old. These results show that the importance of different types of ties with children change according to aging parents’ life stages.
Cognitively Accessible Academic Lessons for Students With Intellectual Disabilities Using the iPad
Authors: Gunderson Jamie Linn , Higgins Kyle , Morgan Joseph John , Tandy Richard , Brown Monica R.
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to improve access to general education curricula, through the use of an iPad, for students with intellectual disabilities (IDs). The participants were 72 students (kindergarten through eighth grade) identified as having an ID. During the 6-week study, the 41 students in the experimental iPad group received academic instruction and completed work via the iPad, while the 31 students in the control group received the same instruction via paper-and-pencil materials. Data were compared to determine the effects of the intervention on the academic content knowledge, work completion, and teacher perceptions of the engagement of students with IDs. Student perceptions concerning the use of the iPad as a learning tool were collected and evaluated. Analyses indicate that academic student achievement increased with both the iPad and traditional teaching methods and that performance was maintained. Additionally, the iPad usage had a significant effect on the work completion and engagement of students with IDs as indicated by work completion data and teacher perceptions of engagement. Moreover, students participating in the study responded favorably about using the iPad. Implications from these findings indicate that the iPad may be an effective learning tool for students with IDs.
Comparison of the Local Tolerability to 5 Long-acting Drug Nanosuspensions with Different Stabilizing Excipients, Following a Single Intramuscular Administration in the Rat
Authors: Chamanza Ronnie , Darville Nicolas , van Heerden Marjolein , De Jonghe Sandra
Published: November 2017

To investigate the effects of common nanosuspension-stabilizing excipients on the nature and temporal evolution of histopathological changes at intramuscular (i.m.) administration sites, 5 groups of 39 male rats per group received a single injection of 1 of the 5 analogous crystalline drug nanosuspensions containing 200 mg/ml of an antiviral compound with particle sizes of ±200 nm and identical vehicle compositions, except for the type of nanosuspension stabilizer. The investigated stabilizers were poloxamer 338, poloxamer 407, d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1,000-succinate (TPGS), polysorbate 80, and polysorbate 80 combined with egg phosphatidylglycerol. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed progressive inflammatory changes at the i.m. administration sites and the draining lymph nodes that differed according to the time point of sacrifice and the type of stabilizer. Although the overall time course of inflammatory changes was similar across the groups, differences in the nature, severity, and timing of the inflammatory response were observed between animals injected with poloxamer- or TPGS-containing nanosuspensions and those injected with formulations containing polysorbate 80. A more severe and prolonged active inflammatory phase, the presence of multinucleate giant cells, prolonged macrophage infiltration of the formulation depot, and more persistent histiocytic infiltrates in the lymph nodes were observed in the polysorbate 80–containing nanosuspension groups. Such vehicle-mediated effects could influence the overall tolerability profile of long-acting nanosuspensions.
Emergency aortic stent-graft treatment for malignant aortoesophageal fistula
Authors: Wong Pak Chiu , Chan Yiu Che , Law Yuk , Keung Cheng Stephen Wing
Published: November 2017

Two patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the mid-esophagus, with esophageal stents in situ, suffered sudden onset of massive hematemesis and hemodynamic instability due to an aortoesophageal fistula. Although their esophageal neoplasms were deemed inoperable and treatment was palliative, the bleeding was successfully stopped with an endovascular aortic stent-graft. They both remained stable with no septic or hemorrhagic complications, and survived for 14 and 16 weeks after the operation. We emphasize that even if esophageal tumors are locally advanced, emergency endovascular management of aortoesophageal fistula is worthwhile for prolongation of survival.
Interview with Zygmunt Bauman: From the Modern Project to the Liquid World
Authors: Tabet Simon
Published: November 2017

In these conversations with Simon Tabet, Zygmunt Bauman narrates important parts of his biographical and intellectual itineraries, from his formative years at the University of Warsaw to his Polish exile and final settlement in England, and how this influenced his sociological vision, as an ‘outsider’. Bauman considers some central concepts of his thought, his main sources of critical inspiration, and his position on such contemporary phenomena as the rise of populism and terrorism in Europe and the consequent relationship between politics and insecurity.
Association between monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and blood pressure in smokers
Authors: Komiyama Maki , Takanabe Rieko , Ono Koh , Shimada Sayaka , Wada Hiromichi , Yamakage Hajime , Satoh-Asahara Noriko , Morimoto Tatsuya , Shimatsu Akira , Takahashi Yuko , Hasegawa Koji
Published: November 2017

Objective

The expression level of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is increased in atherosclerotic regions, inducing monocyte migration to the blood vessel wall. Although the serum MCP-1 concentration is higher in patients with than without cardiovascular disease, the precise correlations between the serum MCP-1 concentration and factors associated with smoking and atherosclerosis are unknown.

Methods

The serum MCP-1 concentration was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 207 consecutive smokers who visited our smoking cessation clinic.

Results

Sex-adjusted analysis of smokers revealed that the MCP-1 concentration was positively correlated with age ( β = 0.311), smoking duration ( β = 0.342), systolic blood pressure ( β = 0.225), and diastolic blood pressure ( β = 0.137) but not with the body mass index. Multivariate regression analysis showed that smoking duration and systolic blood pressure were independent determinants of the MCP-1 concentration.

Conclusions

The MCP-1 concentration was positively correlated with blood pressure among smokers. Long-term smokers with high blood pressure may be more susceptible to plaque rupture at atherosclerotic lesion sites.
Elevated Creatine Kinase due to Potential Drug Interaction With Ticagrelor and Atorvastatin
Authors: Beavers Janna C.
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

Ticagrelor and atorvastatin are commonly used medications in the management of acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous intervention. This is a report of a patient case of a potential drug interaction leading to the use of alternative therapy.

Case Report:

A 58-year-old male presented for cardiac catheterization following an abnormal stress test. He underwent placement of a drug-eluting stent and was started on ticagrelor. Three months later, he was noted to have elevated creatine kinase (CK), thought to be related to a potential drug–drug interaction between ticagrelor and atorvastatin. Ticagrelor was discontinued and he was successfully transitioned to clopidogrel. CK returned to normal within weeks of this change.

Discussion:

Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated a potential interaction between ticagrelor and atorvastatin but have not been deemed clinically significant. To date, only one other case report has been published discussing this interaction and consideration of alternative therapy. This case report is unique, with ticagrelor being the only new medication added prior to the abnormal CK finding.

Conclusions:

A probable drug–drug interaction occurred with concomitant ticagrelor and atorvastatin. While this interaction may not always be clinically significant, it is reasonable to consider in patients who present with signs and symptoms of adverse effects.
Predictor-corrector guidance for entry vehicle based on fuzzy logic
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhang Hongbo , Tang Guojian
Published: November 2017

With the development of aerospace industry, the guidance system of an entry vehicle will be more robust, reliable and autonomous in the future. Based on fuzzy logic, the paper designs a predictor-corrector guidance law. The trajectory prediction is realized by numerical integration. The correction system is based on two fuzzy controllers, which correct the longitudinal motion and lateral motion synergistically. The error of flight range is eliminated by correcting the magnitude of bank angle. The altitude error is eliminated by correcting the attack angle. The lateral error is eliminated by regulating the reversal time of bank angle. Comparing with the traditional corrector based on Newton-Raphson iteration, the method in this paper only needs a single trajectory prediction in one correction cycle, which is favorable for on-board calculation. Moreover, the longitudinal motion and lateral motion are synergistically corrected in the predictor-corrector, which makes the method more robust and flexible.
Concern for Group Reputation Increases Prosociality in Young Children
Authors: Engelmann Jan M. , Herrmann Esther , Tomasello Michael
Published: November 2017

The motivation to build and maintain a positive personal reputation promotes prosocial behavior. But individuals also identify with their groups, and so it is possible that the desire to maintain or enhance group reputation may have similar effects. Here, we show that 5-year-old children actively invest in the reputation of their group by acting more generously when their group’s reputation is at stake. Children shared significantly more resources with fictitious other children not only when their individual donations were public rather than private but also when their group’s donations (effacing individual donations) were public rather than private. These results provide the first experimental evidence that concern for group reputation can lead to higher levels of prosociality.
Limited Gains, Enduring Violations
Authors: Chaney Paul
Published: November 2017

Against the backdrop of continuing rights violations in Bangladesh, this article analyses issue-salience and framing in the policy discourse of civil society organizations (CSOs) and state elites on the implementation of the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Data from the reports submitted to the second-cycle United Nations’ Universal Periodic Review (UPR), the official monitoring mechanism associated with UN rights treaties, show how state discourse is framed in instrumental, administrative terms. In contrast, civil society discourse is critically framed and highlights poor implementation and enforcement of the CRC, poverty and corruption. This helps to explain on-going rights violations in an increasingly hostile political context wherein government is unresponsive to civil society claims, mobilization is suppressed and CSOs are forced to focus on service delivery and advocacy functions.
Assessing Public Engagement Outcomes by the Use of an Outcome Expectations Scale for Scientists
Authors: Peterman Karen , Robertson Evia Jane , Cloyd Emily , Besley John C.
Published: November 2017

This study presents initial work to validate a scale designed to measure scientists’ outcome expectations in relation to public engagement. A 20-item survey was administered to a sample of 341 scientists. Graded response models were used to assess the quality of the items. Results suggest that six items provided the strongest measure of outcome expectations, with classically adequate reliability across a wide range of scientists and scores. The findings are presented in relation to the short-term outcomes of public engagement for scientists and the need for validated scales that allow for the continued study of science communication efforts.
Physician Guide to Home Hospice Visits
Authors: Bial Andrea , Desai Anar , Martin Joanna
Published: November 2017

The field of hospice and palliative medicine continues to grow, attracting recent graduates as well as more senior physicians looking for career changes. Unfortunately, there is little, if any, training in most residencies regarding the home hospice visit, and there are not enough fellowship-trained physicians to fill the available positions. A systematic review of the literature was made for the years 2000 to 2016 to identify articles which provided practical, clinical guidelines for the physician home hospice visit. No single article provided this needed information. Thus, the authors formulated these guidelines based on the literature and their experiences to aid the home hospice physician—as well as other providers who may work with the physician—to understand the physician’s role in the home hospice visit.
Derivation, Evaluation, and Validation of Illustrations of Key Counselling Points for a Pediatric Eczema Action Plan
Authors: McEvoy Alana , Sauder Maxwell B. , McDonald Katherine , Suter Phillipe , Pouliot Annie , Zemek Roger , Kanigsberg Nordau , Vaillancourt Regis , Ramien Michele L.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Current eczema action plans (EAP) are based on written instructions without illustrations. Incorporating validated illustrations into EAPs can significantly improve comprehension and usability.

Objective:

To produce and validate a set of illustrations for key counselling points of a pediatric EAP.

Methods:

Illustrations were developed using key graphic elements and refined by subject experts. Illustrations were evaluated during one-on-one structured interviews with parents/caregivers of children ages 9 and younger, as well as with children ages 10 to 17 years between September 2015 and June 2016. The concepts of transparency, translucency, and short-term recall were assessed for validation.

Results:

Of 245 participants, 81.3% were parents and/or caregivers of children 0 to 9 years old, and 18.7% were children between 10 and 17 years old. A total of 15 illustrations and 2 storyboards were evaluated; 9 illustrations and 2 storyboards were redesigned to reach the preset validation targets. Overall, 13 illustrations and 2 storyboards were validated.

Conclusion:

A set of illustrations for use in an EAP was prospectively designed and validated, achieving acceptable transparency, translucency, and recall, with input from patients and a multidisciplinary medical team. The incorporation of validated illustrations into eczema action plans benefits patients with limited health literacy. Future studies should evaluate if illustrations improve understanding of eczema management and translate into improved clinical outcomes.
Experimental and theoretical analyses of the contact-impact behavior of Babbitt ZChSnSb11-6
Authors: Wang Yao , Li Shujun , Xiang Dan , Meng Wenjun
Published: November 2017

Contact-impact between Babbitt and steel surfaces is an ubiquitous phenomenon during the operation of oil-film bearing. To study this phenomenon, a contact-impact method of Babbitt ZChSnSb11-6 was designed and the contact-impact test was performed. For the purpose of getting a more complete understanding of the contact-impact mechanical properties of Babbitt ZChSnSb11-6, the relationships of coefficient of restitution, permanent deformation, and drop height (i.e. the initial impact velocity) were analyzed; and, the constitutive behavior between the contact force and the contact deflection was studied. Then, based on the empirical formulation developed by Brake, an indentation contact-impact model during impact events was established, which theoretically explained the contact-impact behavior of Babbitt ZChSnSb11-6. Meanwhile, the experimental results were compared with the numerical solutions solved by using MATLAB. Results revealed the established model shows a good agreement with the experimental results. The mean absolute error of coefficient of restitution was less than 0.025, and the difference for the permanent deformation after impact was less than 1%. For the contact-impact tests with different size parameters, the length and the diameter of 20 steel rods were the two significant influencing factors on the permanent deformation and coefficient of restitution of Babbitt flat surface; and, the relationship of contact force and contact deflection appeared to display the similar trend. It was concluded that the established contact-impact model has the effectiveness and applicablility on describing its contact-impact behaviors, and which can provide theoretical and experimental supports for the prediction of contact deflection and contact force of the Babbitt ZChSnSb11-6 of oil-film bearing.
Experiential festival attributes, perceived value, satisfaction, and behavioral intention for Korean festivalgoers
Authors: Lee Hoon , Hwang Heejeong , Shim Changsup
Published: November 2017

Based on an extensive literature review of the festival experience, this study proposes that the experiences of festivalgoers can be classified into five main attributes, namely Escape, Playfulness, Togetherness, Sacredness, and Placeness. A survey of 450 South Koreans who had participated in some type of domestic festival in the past year statistically validated these attributes and explored the impact of each on the perceived value, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions of festivalgoers. The study shows that those Koreans who experienced Playfulness, Sacredness, and Placeness at a festival tended to perceive the festival as more valuable than those who experienced Escape and Togetherness, which were factors that did not significantly affect the perceived value of the festival. This study illuminates the nature of festival attributes and the particular characteristics most important to Korean festivalgoers, both of which provide theoretical and practical implications for tourism researchers and festival organizers.
Fragmentation studies on metastable diethylaniline derivatives using mass-analyzed ion kinetic energy spectrometry
Authors: Seulen Sarah , Grotemeyer Jürgen
Published: November 2017

It is well known that small substituted aromatic amines lose their substituents after electron ionization in a multistep fragmentation mechanism. In this contribution, the fragmentation reactions of N,N-diethyl-aniline and different methyl-substituted N,N-diethyl-methyl-aniline isomers are investigated with respect to the position of the methyl group attached to the aromatic ring system. Metastable ion decay reveals a complicated fragmentation mechanism leading to an interplay of the aromatic methyl group and the ethyl substituents at the amine function. A small change in the substitution leads to a significant change of the observed fragments indicating a participation of o-methyl groups in the fragmentation mechanism of the diethyl amino side chain. Because the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, the presented investigations deliver through 13C isotopic labeling a deep insight into the hidden rearrangement and fragmentation mechanisms in these compounds.
The Intersection of Firearms and Intimate Partner Homicide in 15 Nations
Authors: Zeoli April M. , Malinski Rebecca , Brenner Hannah
Published: November 2017

Intimate partners commit approximately one in three homicides against women worldwide. Little is known about situational factors that contribute to intimate partner homicides (IPH) and how they may differ across nations. This article provides a cross-national exploration of one situational factor, the use of firearms in the commission of homicides, and considers whether nations have laws designed specifically to keep firearms out of the hands of batterers. We conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed research and governmental and nongovernmental reports for data on weapon use in IPH. Data were located for 15 nations and subnational areas, which varied from firearms being involved in no IPHs in Fiji to 59% in Antalya, Turkey. Seven nations have legislation that addresses gun ownership as it relates to those who have been charged with, convicted of, or show a propensity toward the commission of intimate partner violence. These laws vary in whether domestic violence is a factor considered in whether to allow firearm ownership or whether it served to disqualify ownership. Due to the small number of nations for which data on weapon use in IPH were located, we did not conduct any hypothesis testing. There is a need for detailed homicide surveillance systems among nations so that researchers can explore the epidemiology of these homicides and ultimately identify opportunities for intervention.
Preclinical Evaluation of Safety of Fucoidan Extracts From Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus for Use in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Mathew Lata , Burney Maryam , Gaikwad Anjali , Nyshadham Pranavand , Nugent Elizabeth K. , Gonzalez Anneliese , Smith Judith A.
Published: November 2017

Objectives: To evaluate potential hepatic metabolism-mediated drug interactions with fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida (UPF) or Fucus vesiculosus (FVF) and potential growth inhibition activity with either fucoidan alone or with chemotherapy. In vivo studies were done to confirm safety and investigate fucoidan-mediated immune modulation. Methods: Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) 3A4, 2C8, 2C9, and 2D6 inhibition experiments were conducted in vitro followed by an ex vivo human hepatocytes model to evaluate the CYP450 induction potential of each fucoidan at highest theoretical concentrations. Four hepatic metabolism phase II pathways—glutathione S transferase (GST), quinone oxidoreductase (QOR), catechol-O-methyltransferases (COMT), and uridine di-phosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)—were evaluated with validated immunoassays. Growth inhibition assays were performed with each fucoidan alone and in combination with chemotherapy agents in a panel of human cancer cell lines. In vivo studies evaluated safety and immune modualtion. Results: CYP450 inhibition was observed with FVF. The GST, QOR, and UGT pathways had no changes. UPF and FVF both interacted with COMT. No growth inhibitory activity in cancer cell lines was observed. UPF and FVF had synergistic activity with paclitaxel or tamoxifen and additive activity with topotecan. In vivo, FVF decreased HeLa human cervical tumor growth and both FVF and UPF decreased TOV-112D human ovarian tumor growth. Otherwise, no significant change in tumor growth was observed. FVF immune modulation of IgG and IL-6 was observed (p<0.03). Conclusion: At higher doses, UPF and FVF may have limited potential for drug-supplement interactions, with either CYP450 or COMT hepatic metabolism pathways. Additional studies are warranted to evaluate to confirm findings of fucoidans in combination with chemotherapy.
Alpha 1-antitrypsin ameliorates ventilator-induced lung injury in rats by inhibiting inflammatory responses and apoptosis
Authors: Zhu He , He Jianshuai , Liu Jia , Zhang Xin , Yang Fengyun , Liu Pingting , Wang Shilei
Published: November 2017

Mechanical ventilation is extensively used to treat patients with lung injury but may result in ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). The present study investigated the protective effect of alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) on VILI. Adult male rats were subjected to sham, ventilation + saline, or ventilation + AAT treatment and lung injuries were evaluated. Peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were obtained to assess systemic and local inflammatory responses, respectively. Mechanical ventilation resulted in lung injury, as evidenced by histological abnormalities as well as elevations in PaO2/FiO2ratio, the wet-to-dry weight ratio, and the BALF level of proteins. The intravenous administration of AAT significantly improved these parameters of lung function, suggesting a protective role of AAT in VILI. Mechanistically, ventilator-induced inflammation was effectively reduced by AAT, as evidenced by decreases in BALF neutrophil counts, BALF cytokines, and serum adhesion factors. In contrast, anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 in BALF was increased in response to AAT. AAT treatment also inhibited the expression of nuclear factor-κB, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 while promoting Bcl-2 expression in ventilator-injured lung tissues. AAT treatment can ameliorate VILI by inhibiting inflammatory mediator production and apoptosis.

Impact statement

Mechanical ventilation has been commonly used to treat patients with lung injury but may result in ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Few effective treatment options are currently available to reduce VILI. Alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) is an inhibitor of serine protease with anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic properties, suggesting a possible role in attenuating lung injury. The present study demonstrates that AAT inhibits the development of VILI by modulating inflammation- and apoptosis-related protein expression. Therefore, AAT may be a novel therapeutic agent for acute respiratory distress syndrome patients undergoing mechanical ventilation.