bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Intake Control using Dry-weather Forecast
Authors: Icke Otto , van Schagen Kim , Huising Christian , Wuister Jasper , van Dijk Edward , Budding Arjan
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Level-based control of the influent flow causes peak discharges at a waste water treatment plant (WTTP) after rainfall events. Furthermore, the capacity of the post-treatment is in general smaller than the maximum hydraulic capacity of the WWTP. This results in a significant bypass of the post-treatment during peak discharge. The optimisation of influent flow reduces peak discharge, and increases the treatment efficiency of the whole water cycle, which benefits the surface water quality. In this paper, it is shown that half of the bypasses of the post-treatment can be prevented by predictive control. A predictive controller for influent flow is implemented using the Aquasuite® Advanced Monitoring and Control platform. Based on real-time measured water levels in the sewerage and both rainfall and dry-weather flow (DWF) predictions, a discharge limitation is determined by a volume optimisation technique. For the analysed period (February–September 2016) results at WWTP Bennekom show that about 50 % of bypass volume can be prevented. Analysis of single rainfall events shows that the used approach is still conservative and that the bypass can be even further decreased by allowing discharge limitation during precipitation.
Turtle shell bone and osteoderm histology of Mesozoic and Cenozoic stem-trionychian Adocidae and Nanhsiungchelyidae (Cryptodira: Adocusia) from Central Asia, Mongolia, and North America
Authors: Scheyer Torsten M. , Syromyatnikova Elena V. , Danilov Igor G.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The record of fossil turtles from the Cretaceous and Cenozoic of Asia and North America is very rich, including several lineages of cryptodiran turtles. Here we survey the shell bone histology of two important closely related groups of stem trionychians, the Adocidae and Nanhsiungchelyidae, which have representatives in both Asia and North America. All studied taxa show shell bones in which the diploe is framed by well-developed cortical compact bone layers. Taxa of both groups also express external regular surface sculpturing of their shell bones, and in the case of the nanhsiungchelyid genus Basilemys also on the osteoderms, which is also reflected in the internal histological bone structures. Besides similarities of the regular ornamentation patterns, both groups share a number of microanatomical and histological characters such as the zonation of external cortex with rather homogeneous fine-fibred interwoven structural fibres (ISF) in the more internal zone and a dominance of vertically oriented fibres in the ISF and the presence of growth marks in the more external zone. On the other hand, growth marks, i.e. lines of arrested growth, which are visible as wavy lines in thin sections, extend subparallel to the external bone surface in adocids, but they are not parallel/subparallel in nanhsiungchelyids. Thickness and structure of bone trabeculae in the cancellous interior regions depends on the shell bone thickness of the individual samples. The internal cortices of all taxa except the North American samples of Adocus usually consist of parallel-fibred bone that locally grades into lamellar bone. Secondary bone remodelling is more frequent in nanhsiungchelyids compared to adocids, and Sharpey's fibres that extend perpendicular to the bone margins extending across subparallel growth marks are more commonly found in adocids. In addition, bone histology served to identify trionychid specimens in the adocid and nanhsiungchelyid samples, especially as bone surface sculpturing patterns were weathered or eroded in those cases. The histological data present thus supplement the numerous previously reported differences in external shell morphology between adocids and nanhsiungchelyids on the one hand and trionychids and carettochelyids on the other.
Multivariate analysis of extreme storm surges in a semi-enclosed bay
Authors: Luo Yao , Shi Hui , Wang Dongxiao
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The prediction of extreme storm surges is a critical task for coastal area protection. This study examines extreme storm surges in Beibu Bay, a semi-enclosed bay in the South China Sea, and their joint probabilities. A method for the advanced prediction of the extreme storm surges is proposed using a multivariate extreme statistical method. We further present practical guidelines of the proposed multivariate analysis method, including guidelines for simulation. The simulation can be extended to multidimensional data to simplify computation, so the proposed approach can be extended to use more points' data from the semi-enclosed bay for predicting extreme storm surges probabilities. A practical case study illustrates the application of the proposed techniques for extreme storm surges prediction. A comparison of the conditional probabilities obtained from observations and simulation data show that the proposed method is effective.
Spatial variability in mass loss of glaciers in the Everest region, central Himalayas, between 2000 and 2015
Authors: King Owen , Quincey Duncan J. , Carrivick Jonathan L. , Rowan Ann V.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Region-wide averaging of Himalayan glacier mass change has masked any catchment or glacier-scale variability in glacier recession; thus the role of a number of glaciological processes in glacier wastage remains poorly understood. In this study, we quantify mass loss rates over the period 2000–2015 for 32 glaciers across the Everest region and assess how future ice loss is likely to differ depending on glacier hypsometry. The mean mass balance of all 32 glaciers in our sample was −0.52 ± 0.22 m water equivalent (w.e.) a−1. The mean mass balance of nine lacustrine-terminating glaciers (−0.70 ± 0.26 m w.e. a−1) was 32 % more negative than land-terminating, debris-covered glaciers (−0.53 ± 0.21 m w.e. a−1). The mass balance of lacustrine-terminating glaciers is highly variable (−0.45 ± 0.13 to −0.91 ± 0.22 m w.e. a−1), perhaps reflecting glacial lakes at different stages of development. To assess the importance of hypsometry on glacier response to future temperature increases, we calculated current (Dudh Koshi – 0.41, Tama Koshi – 0.43, Pumqu – 0.37) and prospective future glacier accumulation area Ratios (AARs). IPCC AR5 RCP 4.5 warming (0.9–2.3 °C by 2100) could reduce AARs to 0.29 or 0.08 in the Tama Koshi catchment, 0.27 or 0.17 in the Dudh Koshi catchment and 0.29 or 0.18 in the Pumqu catchment. Our results suggest that glacial lake expansion across the Himalayas could expedite ice mass loss and the prediction of future contributions of glacial meltwater to river flow will be complicated by spatially variable glacier responses to climate change.
The Bantu-Romance-Greek connection revisited: Processing constraints in auxiliary and clitic placement from a cross-linguistic perspective
Authors: Chatzikyriakidis Stergios , Gibson Hannah
Published: February 2017

This paper explores a connection between Romance and Greek on the one hand, and Bantu on the other. More specifically, we look at auxiliary placement in Rangi and clitic placement in Tobler Mussafia languages, with a special emphasis on Cypriot Greek, and argue that a common explanation for their distribution can be found once a move into a dynamic framework is made. Rangi exhibits an unusual word order alternation in auxiliary constructions under which the position of the auxiliary appears to be sensitive to an element appearing at the left periphery of the clause. A similar sensitivity to a left-peripheral element can be seen to regulate clitic placement in Cypriot Greek (and generally in the so-called Tobler Mussafia clitic languages). The paper presents a parsing-oriented account of these two phenomena in the Dynamic Syntax framework, arguing that the similarities in syntactic distribution are the result of the encoding in the lexicon of processing strategies that were potentially pragmatic preferences in earlier stages of the respective languages. The account thus leans on the role played by the lexical entries for auxiliary and clitic forms, as well as the assumption that underspecification is inherent in the process of establishing meaning in context. The account is further supplemented by possible pathways of diachronic change that could have given rise to the systems found in present day varieties.
Key Factors for Sustainable Industrial Cities
Authors: El Barmelgy Ingy M. , Aly Moataz S.
Published: February 2017

The industry is one of the main pillars of a strong economic city. Unfortunately, third world countries' industrial cities face environmental threats to the point that sustainable environments are considered a luxury (Pugh, C, 2013). According to a report issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation in 2015 Egypt lost approximately 8618 acres of the finest farmland in the Delta and the Nile Valley as a result of urban sprawl on farmland to take advantage of employment opportunities and services in cities (Ministry of Agriculture land protection and land reclamation, 2015). The paper attempts to monitor different cases in the Egyptian context, trying to conclude the effective factors for their environmental and urban form as a result of industrial use. The Aim is to conclude key factors for sustainable industrial cities. The paper's results are based on a designed questionnaire that is analysed using SPSS. The questionnaire is completed with the help of experts and executives in order to specify the main factors in the sustainable urban form regarding industrial cities. It is followed by cluster analysis to determine the positive or negative effects of each element in relation to the rest of the elements concluding the most effective factor affecting the environment in every group as a tool to help the urban planning decision makers (environmental - urban - economic and social).
Aseptic Destruction of the Elbow Joint after Radial Head Replacement. Case Study
Authors: Błoński Marcin , Boszczyk Andrzej , Pomianowski Stanisław , Urban Mariusz
Published: February 2017

Radial head replacement should be a routine treatment in cases of non-reconstructable radial head fractures. With the growing number of radial head arthroplasties, we are going to see more complications related to this procedure. We describe a case of aseptic destruction of the elbow joint, probably related to the release of polyethylene particles from the prosthetic head. Removal of the implant and extensive synovectomy was performed, leading to an excellent clinical outcome with reduction of pain and increase in the range of motion. The clinical improvement was not accompanied by radiographic change.
Language of Instruction and Ethnic Disparities in School Success
Authors: Bakhshaei Mahsa , Georgiou Theophano , Mc Andrew Marie
Published: February 2017

In Quebec’s French-language secondary schools, youth originating from South Asia have the highest dropout rate among all immigrant-origin students, whereas in the English sector, their coethnic peers have a more positive academic profile than third-plus-generation students. Using quantitative data, this paper aims to understand the difference in school performance between these two groups. Firstly, we examine their performance through three indicators: school delay, graduation, and dropout rates. Secondly, we contrast their profile through nine characteristics. Finally, we discuss the influence of each group’s characteristics on graduation. The results reveal that the difference in performance is largely due to the characteristics of the French-sector students. The English-sector students’ success is not significantly related to having English as mother tongue or as language spoken at home.
La contribution des enseignants à la pertinence de l’éducation de base en Afrique de l’Ouest : le cas du Sénégal
Authors: Lauwerier Thibaut
Published: February 2017

Cet article vise à comprendre quelle est la contribution des enseignants à une éducation de base de qualité au Sénégal, avec un accent particulier sur le concept d’éducation « pertinente ». Après avoir fait un détour par la caractérisation des concepts de qualité et de pertinence, nous contextualisons la situation des enseignants au Sénégal, puis nous présentons l’intérêt d’explorer les liens entre ces concepts et la question enseignante. D’un point de vue méthodologique, les données proviennent essentiellement d’entretiens et d’observations. Il ressort de nos analyses que les enseignants de manière générale ne sont pas en capacité de permettre une éducation pertinente. Toutefois, cette recherche met en avant certains facteurs favorables à plus de pertinence.
The Struggle for Teacher Professionalism in a Mandated Literacy Curriculum
Authors: Costello Marsha , Costello David
Published: February 2017

This article reports on a study investigating how elementary teachers experienced the literacy initiatives that have been implemented in schools across PEI over the past five years. Such initiatives included the implementation of standardized instructional and assessment materials across the board and the emphasis on consistency of program use, reporting, and evaluation. Data were gathered through an online survey and interviews. Throughout this study, issues of professionalism, emotional impact, and teacher resistance were explored. This article focuses specifically on the issue of teacher professionalism and its relationship with prescribed curriculum. Findings suggest that professionalism is challenged when teachers attempt to adhere to the fidelity of program processes. However, fidelity to the purpose of a program would allow for teacher decision-making and autonomy within the context of any given program or practice.
La réflexion éthique chez des enseignants de l’ordre collégial : ce que la recherche nous apprend sur les types de normativité en jeu dans la dynamique réflexive
Authors: Gohier Christiane , Jutras France , Desautels Luc , Chaubet Philippe
Published: February 2017

Dans le cadre d’une recherche collaborative sur le processus de développement de la réflexion éthique chez des enseignants de l’ordre collégial, deux groupes d’enseignants des régions de Montréal et de Québec ont été rencontrés de façon consécutive à raison de six rencontres par année. L’analyse de la dynamique du processus de réflexion vécue lors de ces rencontres a permis de mettre au jour différents types d’énoncés, critiques ou réflexifs, par exemple. Ces énoncés renvoient à divers types de référents, dont les types de normativité en jeu dans les situations recelant des problèmes d’ordre éthique. On se penchera ici sur ces types de normativité comportant, entre autres, les normes sociales et les principes personnels et professionnels.
Comment faire de la pseudoscience avec des données réelles : une critique des arguments statistiques de John Hattie dans Visible Learning par un statisticien
Authors: Bergeron Pierre-Jérôme
Published: February 2017

Cet article offre une critique du point de vue d’un statisticien de la méthodologie utilisée par Hattie, et explique pourquoi il faut absolument qualifier cette méthodologie de pseudoscience. On parle tout d’abord des intentions de Hattie. Puis, on décrit les erreurs majeures de Visible Learning avant d’expliquer l’ensemble des questions qu’un chercheur devrait se poser en examinant des études et enquêtes basées sur des analyses de données, incluant les méta-analyses. Ensuite, on donne des exemples concrets démontrant que le d de Cohen (la mesure de base derrière les effets d’ampleur, effect sizes, de Hattie) ne peut tout simplement pas être utilisé comme une mesure universelle d’impact. Enfin, on donne des pistes de solution pour mieux comprendre et exécuter des études et méta-analyses en éducation.
L’efficacité : une finalité digne de l’éducation ?
Authors: Demers Stéphanie
Published: February 2017

Cette contribution propose d’envisager la face cachée de la poursuite de l’efficacité en éducation. Elle vise à brièvement examiner les prémisses de la réussite scolaire conçue comme performance, dans la recherche comme dans les prescriptions formulées à l’égard des acteurs de l’éducation.
El liderazgo pedagógico y la implicación del profesorado como factores de éxito en centros de entornos desfavorecidos en España
Authors: Pàmies Rovira Jordi , Senent Sánchez Joan Maria , Essomba Gelabert Miquel Angel
Published: February 2017

Las investigaciones en educación y desigualdades muestran que el entorno socioeconómico de las familias es uno de los factores que condicionan en mayor medida el logro de los resultados académicos. Sin embargo, sin negar la influencia de los factores externos, las investigaciones ponen también de relieve el papel clave que pueden tener la institución educativa y los agentes escolares en las trayectorias y el logro del éxito académico de los jóvenes en situación de mayor vulnerabilidad. Y constatan que escuelas con similares perfiles de estudiantes alcanzan logros diferenciados Este artículo presenta los resultados de un proyecto de investigación cuyo objetivo ha sido identificar los factores que contribuyen al éxito académico en escuelas de educación primaria y secundaria obligatoria situadas en entornos socioeconómicos desfavorecidos de cuatro grandes ciudades en España (Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla y Valencia). La investigación muestra la importancia que sobre los resultados académicos tienen las dimensiones institucionales internas y la incidencia del liderazgo pedagógico de la dirección y del profesorado en el logro académico.
Evaluación del diseño del programa AEdEm de Educación Emocional para Educación Secundaria
Authors: Sánchez-Calleja Laura , García-Jiménez Eduardo , Rodríguez-Gómez Gregorio
Published: February 2017

Las intervenciones sistemáticas en el ámbito de la educación emocional son un recurso cada vez más utilizado para facilitar entre los adolescentes la adquisición de competencias emocionales. La revisión realizada en este trabajo de dichas intervenciones muestra que la mayor parte de ellas adopta la forma de programas de expertos sin llegar a integrar sus actuaciones dentro del currículo escolar. El presente trabajo detalla la evaluación del diseño del programa de la asignatura de Educación Emocional -Programa AEdEm- (Sánchez Román y Sánchez Calleja, 2015), impartida como obligatoria en 1º y 2º de la Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO) de un Instituto de Educación Secundaria. Este programa, persigue el desarrollo de las competencias emocionales siguiendo las aportaciones de autores como Bisquerra y Pérez-Escoda (2007) y Goleman (1995). La evaluación se ha llevado a cabo a través de la validación por jueces. Hemos contado con 10 docentes de diversas universidades españolas especializados en la materia, con el objetivo de conocer la racionalidad de la propuesta y la coherencia de sus componentes. Los criterios siguiendo las aportaciones de Osuna (2000) han sido: relevancia, pertinencia, adecuación, utilidad y viabilidad. Utilizando como instrumentos una escala de evaluación, para los cuatro primeros y el análisis de cuellos de botella, para el último. Los resultados muestran que el diseño del programa es válido, concretamente los expertos opinan del programa que es muy adecuado y bastante relevante, pertinente y útil.
Similar synapse elimination motifs at successive relays in the same efferent pathway during development in mice
Authors: Sheu Shu-Hsien , Tapia Juan Carlos , Tsuriel Shlomo , Lichtman Jeff W
Published: February 2017

In many parts of the nervous system, signals pass across multiple synaptic relays on their way to a destination, but little is known about how these relays form and the function they serve. To get some insight into this question we ask how the connectivity patterns are organized at two successive synaptic relays in a simple, cholinergic efferent pathway. We found that the organization at successive relays in the parasympathetic nervous system strongly resemble each other despite the different embryological origin and physiological properties of the pre- and postsynaptic cells. Additionally, we found a similar developmental synaptic pruning and elaboration strategy is used at both sites to generate their adult organizations. The striking parallels in adult innervation and developmental mechanisms at the relays argue that a general strategy is in operation. We discuss why from a functional standpoint this structural organization may amplify central signals while at the same time maintaining positional targeting.
One‐Step All‐Solution‐Based Au–GO Core–Shell Nanosphere Active Layers in Nonvolatile ReRAM Devices
Authors: Rani Adila , Velusamy Dhinesh Babu , Marques Mota Filipe , Jang Yoon Hee , Kim Richard Hahnkee , Park Cheolmin , Kim Dong Ha
Published: February 2017

Nonvolatile resistive random‐access memory devices based on graphene‐oxide‐wrapped gold nanospheres (AuNS@GO) are fabricated following a one‐step room‐temperature solution‐process approach reported herein for the first time. The effect of the thickness of the GO layer (2, 5, and 7 nm) and the size of the synthesized AuNS (15 and 55 nm) are inspected. Reliable bistable switching is observed in the devices made from a flexible substrate and incorporating 5 and 7 nm thick GO‐wrapped AuNS, sandwiched between two metal electrodes. Current–voltage measurements show bipolar switching behavior with an ON/OFF ratio of 103 and relatively low operating voltage (−2.5 V). The aforementioned devices unveil remarkable robustness over 100 endurance cycles and a retention of 103 s. Conversely, a 2 nm thick GO layer is shown to be insufficient to allow current passage from the bottom to the top electrodes. The resistive switching mechanism is demonstrated by space charge trapped limited current due to the AuNS in AuNS@GO matrix. The proposed device and methodology herein applied are expected to be attractive candidates for future generation flexible memory devices.
Synthesis of Alkynylmethylidene‐benzoxasiloles through a Rhodium‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerization Involving 1,2‐Silicon and 1,3‐Carbon Migration
Authors: Namba Tomoya , Kawauchi Susumu , Shibata Yu , Kanno Hiroshi , Tanaka Ken
Published: February 2017

It is shown that a cationic rhodium(I)/biphep complex catalyzes the cycloisomerization of 2‐(alkynylsilylethynyl)phenols, leading to alkynylmethylidene‐benzoxasiloles through concomitant silicon and carbon migration. This unprecedented cycloisomerization presumably proceeds via the formation of rhodium vinylidenes through 1,2‐silicon migration, followed by 1,3‐carbon (alkyne) migration via the formation of hypervalent silicon centers.
Severe ileus and urinary retention in a patient with tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Konno Shingo , Imamura Tomomi , Inoue Masashi , Murata Mayumi , Sugimoto Hideki , Fujioka Toshiki
Published: February 2017

Key Clinical Message

An acute ileus and/or urinary retention are recognized as emergent complications requiring appropriate depressurizing treatments. Meningitis should be suspected as a cause of these autonomic disturbances.
Orbital rhabdomyosarcoma and traumatic neuroma following enucleation for a uveal schwannoma in a dog: a case report
Authors: McDonald Jessica E. , Knollinger Amy M. , Teixeira Leandro B. , Dubielzig Richard R.
Published: February 2017

Key Clinical Message

A 4‐year‐old, female spayed Siberian husky with history of a uveal schwannoma presented for orbital swelling 9 months after enucleation. A second, malignant tumor developed in the same orbit. Therefore, uveal schwannomas may warrant early surgical intervention in the dog.
Olfactory identification in patients with schizophrenia – the influence of β-endorphin and calcitonin gene-related peptide concentrations
Authors: Urban-Kowalczyk M. , Śmigielski J. , Strzelecki D.
Published: February 2017

Background

The relationship between the olfactory system and emotional processing is an area of growing interest in schizophrenia research. Both the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala are involved in the processing of olfactory information, and olfactory deficits may be also influenced by endogenous opioids and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is probably involved in dopaminergic transmission. However, the relationship between endorphins and dopaminergic transmission has not been fully explored.

Methods

Odor identification performance and valence interaction was evaluated among 50 schizophrenic patients and 50 controls. Schizophrenia symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). All study participants were subjected to the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), blood β-endorphin (BE) and CGRP measurement.

Results

Insignificantly higher BE concentrations were observed in the patient group, while significantly higher UPSIT scores were seen in controls (mean UPSIT 32.48 vs 26.82). The patients demonstrated significantly more identification errors for pleasant (P = 0.000) and neutral (P = 0.055) odors than for unpleasant odors. Patients with higher BE concentrations made more identification errors concerning pleasant (Rs = −0.292; P = 0.04) and neutral odors (Rs = −0.331; P = 0.019). Although the concentration of CGRP was significantly higher in the patient sample (P < 0.001), no relationship was observed between concentration and UPSIT performance. A strong negative correlation was observed between PANSS N score and UPSIT total score (Rs = −0.646; P = 0.000), between PANSS N score and identification by valence for pleasant and neutral odors (UPSIT n/16: Rs = −0.450, P = 0.001; UPSIT n/15: Rs = −0.586, P = 0.000), and a weak negative correlation between PANSS N score and identification of unpleasant odors (UPSIT n/9: Rs = −0.325, P = 0.021).

Conclusions

Schizophrenic patients present a unique pattern of smell identification characterized by aberrant hedonic ratings for pleasant odors but not unpleasant ones. Individuals with predominant negative symptoms and higher BE concentrations are most able to identify negative odors.
Suicidality and hospitalisation in patients with borderline personality disorder who experience auditory verbal hallucinations
Authors: Slotema C.W. , Niemantsverdriet M.B.A. , Blom J.D. , van der Gaag M. , Hoek H.W. , Sommer I.E.C.
Published: February 2017

Background

In patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD), about 22–50% experience auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH). However, the impact of these hallucinations on suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, crisis-service interventions, and hospital admissions is unknown.

Methods

In a cross-sectional design, data were collected with the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales (PSYRATS) and the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview Plus, as well as from the medical records of a convenience sample of outpatients fulfilling the DSM-IV criteria for BPD.

Results

Of the 89 included patients, 27 experienced AVH. In the latter group, the presence of AVH was associated with a significantly higher incidence of suicidal plans and attempts in the month prior to study participation, more hospitalisations, and a shorter interval until hospitalisation. All subscales of the PSYRATS correlated positively with suicide plans, while the phenomenological and emotional subscales also correlated positively with suicide attempts. Moreover, higher scores on the emotional subscale were associated with more hospital admissions.

Conclusions

AVH experienced by patients with BPD might constitute a risk factor for suicide plans and attempts, and hospitalisation. This finding emphasises that this population requires adequate clinical attention, as well as effective treatment for AVH.
Effect of Single-Treatment, Surface-Cooled Radiofrequency Therapy on Vaginal Laxity and Female Sexual Function: The VIVEVE I Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Krychman Michael , Rowan Christopher G. , Allan Bruce B. , DeRogatis Leonard , Durbin Scott , Yacoubian Ashley , Wilkerson Deborah
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Vaginal laxity is a highly prevalent and undertreated medical condition.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of surface-cooled, monopolar radiofrequency (RFc) therapy for the treatment of vaginal laxity in the VIVEVE I trial.

Methods

The VIVEVE I trial was a prospective, randomized, single-blinded, and sham-controlled study. Nine study centers in Canada, Italy, Spain, and Japan participated. Women presenting with vaginal laxity were screened and informed consent was obtained. Major study inclusion criteria were premenopausal status, age at least 18 years, at least one full-term vaginal delivery, and normal genito-pelvic examination results. Enrolled subjects were randomized (2:1) to receive RFc therapy (Active [90 J/cm2] vs Sham [1 J/cm2], respectively) delivered to the vaginal tissue.

Main Outcome Measures

The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of randomized subjects reporting “no vaginal laxity” (Active vs Sham) at 6 months postintervention, which was assessed using the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire. Treatment-emergent adverse events were evaluated in all treated subjects. Secondary efficacy end points included change on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the revised Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS-R).

Results

No vaginal laxity was achieved by 43.5% and 19.6% (P = .002) in the Active and Sham groups, respectively. Differences in FSFI and FSDS-R total scores (Active vs Sham) were 1.8 (P = .031) and −2.42 (P = .056), respectively, in favor of Active treatment. Treatment-emergent adverse events were reported by 11.1% and 12.3% of subjects in the Active and Sham arms, respectively.

Conclusion

The VIVEVE I trial is the first randomized, controlled, blinded, clinical study of RFc for the treatment of vaginal laxity. A single treatment of RFc therapy was found to be safe and associated with both improved vaginal laxity and improved sexual function. The results from this trial support the use of a novel non-surgical therapy for vaginal laxity, a prevalent and undertreated condition.
The heavenly witness to God: Karl Barth's doctrine of angels
Authors: Lindsay Mark
Published: February 2017

Karl Barth's doctrine of angels has yet to receive sustained scholarly attention. This article begins the work of addressing that omission. In particular, it argues that Barth's unique construal of the angelic being and purpose compels him to propose that the angels have a mediatorial function in the service of God's revelation. While being both necessary to and consistent with Barth's description of the angels’ ontology, this service of mediation contradicts his earlier doctrine of revelation and is superfluous to it.
Cultivation Restrictions for Genetically Modified Plants
Authors: Winter Gerd
Published: February 2017

Directive (EU) 2015/412 allows Member States to restrict the cultivation of genetically modified seed or propagating material, although their placing on the market has been authorized. This so-called opt-out is meant to resolve the current Member States’ conflict about gene technology by facilitating differences of states concerning cultivation regulations. The concept has at the same time the potential to pioneer a general reorientation of European and even global principles of free trade. Where as trade restrictions on grounds of health and environmental protection could thus far only be justified on a strict scientific basis, a variety of risk perceptions and evaluations are now made acceptable. The article explores what grounds may justify cultivation restrictions beyond those identified in a concrete environmental risk assessment. Two categories are suggested: general environmental concerns weighing systemic effects and uncertainty, and trans-environmental concerns such as the use-value of genetically modified plants, the avoidance of costs resulting from policies of coexistence with conventional plants, the halting of agricultural industrialisation, and ethical considerations. It is further examined if cultivation restrictions based on such grounds are compatible with the EU rules of free movement of goods and relevant WTO agreements. The pertinent report of a WTO-Panel on genetically modified plants is scrutinized for this purpose and a dissenting interpretation developed.
Alteration of Multiple Leukocyte Gene Expression Networks is Linked with Magnetic Resonance Markers of Prognosis After Acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Teren A. , Kirsten H. , Beutner F. , Scholz M. , Holdt L. M. , Teupser D. , Gutberlet M. , Thiery J. , Schuler G. , Eitel I.
Published: February 2017

Prognostic relevant pathways of leukocyte involvement in human myocardial ischemic-reperfusion injury are largely unknown. We enrolled 136 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) after primary angioplasty within 12 h after onset of symptoms. Following reperfusion, whole blood was collected within a median time interval of 20 h (interquartile range: 15–25 h) for genome-wide gene expression analysis. Subsequent CMR scans were performed using a standard protocol to determine infarct size (IS), area at risk (AAR), myocardial salvage index (MSI) and the extent of late microvascular obstruction (lateMO). We found 398 genes associated with lateMO and two genes with IS. Neither AAR, nor MSI showed significant correlations with gene expression. Genes correlating with lateMO were strongly related to several canonical pathways, including positive regulation of T-cell activation (p = 3.44 × 10−5), and regulation of inflammatory response (p = 1.86 × 10−3). Network analysis of multiple gene expression alterations associated with larger lateMO identified the following functional consequences: facilitated utilisation and decreased concentration of free fatty acid, repressed cell differentiation, enhanced phagocyte movement, increased cell death, vascular disease and compensatory vasculogenesis. In conclusion, the extent of lateMO after acute, reperfused STEMI correlated with altered activation of multiple genes related to fatty acid utilisation, lymphocyte differentiation, phagocyte mobilisation, cell survival, and vascular dysfunction.
Mapping the basal ganglia alterations in children chronically exposed to manganese
Authors: Lao Yi , Dion Laurie-Anne , Gilbert Guillaume , Bouchard Maryse F. , Rocha Gabriel , Wang Yalin , Leporé Natasha , Saint-Amour Dave
Published: February 2017

Chronic manganese (Mn) exposure is associated with neuromotor and neurocognitive deficits, but the exact mechanism of Mn neurotoxicity is still unclear. With the advent of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in-vivo analysis of brain structures has become possible. Among different sub-cortical structures, the basal ganglia (BG) has been investigated as a putative anatomical biomarker in MR-based studies of Mn toxicity. However, previous investigations have yielded inconsistent results in terms of regional MR signal intensity changes. These discrepancies may be due to the subtlety of brain alterations caused by Mn toxicity, coupled to analysis techniques that lack the requisite detection power. Here, based on brain MRI, we apply a 3D surface-based morphometry method on 3 bilateral basal ganglia structures in school-age children chronically exposed to Mn through drinking water to investigate the effect of Mn exposure on brain anatomy. Our method successfully pinpointed significant enlargement of many areas of the basal ganglia structures, preferentially affecting the putamen. Moreover, these areas showed significant correlations with fine motor performance, indicating a possible link between altered basal ganglia neurodevelopment and declined motor performance in high Mn exposed children.
Hepatocyte growth factor secreted by bone marrow stem cell reduce ER stress and improves repair in alveolar epithelial II cells
Authors: Nita Izabela , Hostettler Katrin , Tamo Luca , Medová Michaela , Bombaci Giuseppe , Zhong Jun , Allam Ramanjaneyulu , Zimmer Yitzhak , Roth Michael , Geiser Thomas , Gazdhar Amiq
Published: February 2017

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, irreversible lung disease with complex pathophysiology. Evidence of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been reported in alveolar epithelial cells (AEC) in IPF patients. Secreted mediators from bone marrow stem cells (BMSC-cm) have regenerative properties. In this study we investigate the beneficial effects of BMSC-cm on ER stress response in primary AEC and ER stressed A549 cells. We hypothesize that BMSC-cm reduces ER stress. Primary AEC isolated from IPF patients were treated with BMSC-cm. To induce ER stress A549 cells were incubated with Tunicamycin or Thapsigargin and treated with BMSC-cm, or control media. Primary IPF-AEC had high Grp78 and CHOP gene expression, which was lowered after BMSC-cm treatment. Similar results were observed in ER stressed A549 cells. Alveolar epithelial repair increased in presence of BMSC-cm in ER stressed A549 cells. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was detected in biologically relevant levels in BMSC-cm. Neutralization of HGF in BMSC-cm attenuated the beneficial effects of BMSC-cm including synthesis of surfactant protein C (SP-C) in primary AEC, indicating a crucial role of HGF in ER homeostasis and alveolar epithelial repair. Our data suggest that BMSC-cm may be a potential therapeutic option for treating pulmonary fibrosis.
IL1B-CGTC haplotype is associated with colorectal cancer in admixed individuals with increased African ancestry
Authors: Sanabria-Salas María Carolina , Hernández-Suárez Gustavo , Umaña-Pérez Adriana , Rawlik Konrad , Tenesa Albert , Serrano-López Martha Lucía , Sánchez de Gómez Myriam , Rojas Martha Patricia , Bravo Luis Eduardo , Albis Rosario , Plata José Luis , Green Heather , Borgovan Theodor , Li Li , Majumdar Sumana , Garai Jone , Lee Edward , Ashktorab Hassan , Brim Hassan , Li Li , Margolin David , Fejerman Laura , Zabaleta Jovanny
Published: February 2017

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in cytokine genes can affect gene expression and thereby modulate inflammation and carcinogenesis. However, the data on the association between SNPs in the interleukin 1 beta gene (IL1B) and colorectal cancer (CRC) are conflicting. We found an association between a 4-SNP haplotype block of the IL1B (-3737C/-1464G/-511T/-31C) and CRC risk, and this association was exclusively observed in individuals with a higher proportion of African ancestry, such as individuals from the Coastal Colombian region (odds ratio, OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.31–3.25; p < 0.01). Moreover, a significant interaction between this CRC risk haplotype and local African ancestry dosage was identified in locus 2q14 (p = 0.03). We conclude that Colombian individuals with high African ancestry proportions at locus 2q14 harbour more IL1B-CGTC copies and are consequently at an increased risk of CRC. This haplotype has been previously found to increase the IL1B promoter activity and is the most frequent haplotype in African Americans. Despite of limitations in the number of samples and the lack of functional analysis to examine the effect of these haplotypes on CRC cell lines, our results suggest that inflammation and ethnicity play a major role in the modulation of CRC risk.
Unravelling the genetic basis of simplex Retinitis Pigmentosa cases
Authors: Bravo-Gil Nereida , González-del Pozo María , Martín-Sánchez Marta , Méndez-Vidal Cristina , Rodríguez-de la Rúa Enrique , Borrego Salud , Antiñolo Guillermo
Published: February 2017

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is the most common form of inherited retinal dystrophy (IRD) characterized ultimately by photoreceptors degeneration. Exhibiting great clinical and genetic heterogeneity, RP can be inherited as an autosomal dominant (ad), autosomal recessive (ar) and X-linked (xl) disorder. Although the relative prevalence of each form varies somewhat between populations, a major proportion (41% in Spain) of patients represent simplex cases (sRP) in which the mode of inheritance is unknown. Molecular genetic diagnostic is crucial, but also challenging, for sRP patients because any of the 81 RP genes identified to date may be causative. Herein, we report the use of a customized targeted gene panel consisting of 68 IRD genes for the molecular characterization of 106 sRP cases. The diagnostic rate was 62.26% (66 of 106) with a proportion of clinical refinements of 30.3%, demonstrating the high efficiency of this genomic approach even for clinically ambiguous cases. The high number of patients diagnosed here has allowed us to study in detail the genetic basis of the sRP. The solved sRP cohort is composed of 62.1% of arRP cases, 24.2% of adRP and 13.6% of xlRP, which implies consequences for counselling of patients and families.
Effect of Different Titanium Surfaces on Maturation of Murine Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Zheng Xiaofei , Zhou Fengjuan , Gu Yifei , Duan Xiaobo , Mo Anchun
Published: February 2017

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a pivotal role in the host response to implanted biomaterials. Osseointegration of titanium (Ti) implant is an immunological and inflammatory-driven process. However, the role of DCs in this complex process is largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different Ti surfaces on DC maturation, and evaluate its subsequent potential on osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblasts. Murine bone marrow-derived DCs were seeded on Ti disks with different surface treatments, including pretreatment (PT), sandblasted/acid-etched (SLA) and modified SLA (modSLA) surface. Compared with DCs cultured on PT and SLA surfaces, the cells seeded on modSLA surface demonstrated a more round morphology with lower expression of CD86 and MHC-II, the DC maturation markers. Those cells also secreted high levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and TGF-β. Notably, addition of conditioned medium (CM) from modSLA-induced DCs significantly increased the mRNA expression of Runx2 and ALP as well as ALP activity by murine preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells. Our data demonstrated that Ti disks with different surfaces lead to differential DCs responses. PT and SLA surfaces induce DCs mature, while DCs seeded on modSLA-Ti surface maintain an immature phenotype and exhibit a potential of promoting osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells.
NaI-Mediated Acetamidosulfenylation of Alkenes with Bunte Salts as Thiolating Reagent Leading to β-Acetamido Sulfides
Authors: Wang Yuanxing , Lin Sen , Zhang Rongxing , Yan Zhaohua , Wang Dingyi
Published: February 2017

A direct and efficient method for the acetamidosulfenylation reaction of alkenes was developed, in which NaI was used as a catalyst, DMSO as the oxidant, nitriles as both the solvent and nucleophiles and stable, readily available Bunte salts as thiolating reagents. The reactions were carried out under mild conditions generating β-acetamido sulfides in good yields. Moreover, the reaction can be performed when alcohols are used as nucleophiles providing the corresponding β-alkoxysulfides in moderate yields, respectively.
Becoming patriots in Russia: biopolitics, fashion, and nostalgia
Authors: Kalinina Ekaterina
Published: February 2017

The article seeks to explore the common ground between biopolitics, fashion, patriotism and nostalgia. Taking off from the Foucauldian notion of biopolitics as a control apparatus exerted over a population, I provide an insight into the modern construction of the Russian nation, where personal and collective sacrifice, traditional femininity and masculinity, orthodox religion, and the Great Patriotic War become the basis for patriotism. On carefully chosen case studies, I will show how the state directly and indirectly regulates people's lives by producing narratives, which are translated (in some cases designers act as mouthpieces for the state demographic or military politics) into fashionable discourses and, with a core of time, create specific gender norms – women are seen as fertile mothers giving birth to new soldiers, while men are shown as fighters and defenders of their nation. In the constructed discourses, conservative ideals become a ground for the creation of an idea of a nation as one biological body, where brothers and sisters are united together. In these fashionable narratives, people's bodies become a battlefield of domestic politics. Fashion produces a narrative of a healthy nation to ensure the healthy work- and military force.
Growth of juvenile Norwegian spring-spawning herring in relation to latitudinal and interannual differences in temperature and fish density in their coastal and fjord nursery areas
Authors: Husebø Åse , Slotte Aril , Stenevik Erling Kåre
Published: February 2017

Husebø, Å., Slotte, A., and Stenevik, E. K. 2007. Growth of juvenile Norwegian spring-spawning herring in relation to latitudinal and interannual differences in temperature and fish density in their coastal and fjord nursery areas. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 64: 1161–1172. Norwegian spring-spawning herring (Clupea harengus) spawn in February and March along the Norwegian coast from 58°N to 69°N. The larvae are transported north with the coastal current, and in autumn, the main part of the 0-group is found in the Barents Sea, and a smaller and variable fraction ends up in coastal and fjord nursery areas that experience a wide range of environmental conditions and fish densities. Based on data from herring 0–2 years old collected from 1970 to 2004, there is a positive relationship between temperature and the growth of this coastal component, in terms of length, weight, condition factor, and annual otolith increment width, and a negative relationship between acoustic abundance and the same growth indices. In general, juvenile growth decreased northwards along the coast concurrently with decreasing summer and autumn temperatures and increasing acoustic abundance. It seems, therefore, that there may be interference in the relationship between juvenile herring growth and temperature, attributable to variable recruitment, currents, larval drift, and advection into the fjords, causing latitudinal and interannual differences in fish density, and hence variable competition for food.
Migratory abdominal pain
Authors: Kieffer Will
Published: February 2017

A 63 year old woman, presenting as an emergency provides an useful example of the difficulties in diagnosing acute appendicitis when faced with an atypical history. This patient underwent plain radiography, computed tomography, repeat biochemical investigations and finally an exploratory laparotomy before the diagnosis of acute appendicitis was made. The case was confounded by a highly mobile caecal pole which brought the inflamed appendix to lie over the pancreas highlighting the need for vigilance in diagnosing acute appendicitis.
Pediatric Drug Nitazoxanide: A Potential Choice for Control of Zika
Authors: Cao Rui-Yuan , Xu Yong-fen , Zhang Tian-Hong , Yang Jing-Jing , Yuan Ye , Hao Pei , Shi Yi , Zhong Jin , Zhong Wu
Published: February 2017

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection can be the cause of congenital malformations, including microcephaly in infants and can cause other disorders such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningoencephalitis, and myelitis, which can also occur in some infected adults. However, at this time, there is no drug approved to treat ZIKV infection. Drug repurposing is the promptest way to obtain an effective drug during a global public health emergency such as the spread of Zika virus. In this study, we report a US Food and Drug Admistration-approved drug that is safe for pediatric use. Nitazoxanide and its bioactive metabolite, tizoxanide, have anti-ZIKV potential in vitro, and we identified that they exerts antiviral effect possibly by targeting the viral postattachment step.