bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tanshinone IIA Attenuates Contrast-Induced Nephropathy via Nrf2 Activation in Rats
Authors: Liang Rulian , Zhao Qing , Jian Guihua , Cheng Dongsheng , Wang Niansong , Zhang Guangyuan , Wang Feng
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Tanshinone IIA is a chemical compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a perennial plant also known as red sage used in traditional Chinese medicine. Tanshinone IIA has been shown to protect against various organ injuries. In this study, we hypothesized that Tanshinone IIA could play an anti-oxidative role in contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) through enhancing Nrf2/ARE activation. Methods: To test whether Tanshinone IIA can attenuate CIN, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, we utilized two models: an in vivo Sprague-Dawley rat model of ioversol-induced CIN and an in vitro cell model of oxidative stress in which HK2 cells, a human renal tubular cell line, are treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups (n = 6 per group): control group, ioversol group (ioversol-induced CIN), vehicle group (ioversol-induced CIN rats pretreated with vehicle), and Tanshinone IIA group (ioversol-induced CIN rats pretreated with 25mg/kg Tanshinone IIA). Renal functions, renal injuries and apoptosis were evaluated by using serum creatinine, histological scoring, and TUNEL staning respectively. Malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2’ –deoxyguanosine, and intracellular reactive oxygen species were used for oxidative stress assessment. Levels of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were measured in vivo and in vitro. Results: Tanshinone IIA attenuated renal tubular necrosis, apoptosis and oxidative stress in rats and oxidative stress in HK2 cells. Furthermore, Tanshinone IIA activated Nrf2, and up-regulated HO-1 expression in vivo and in vitro, resulting in a reduction in oxidative stress. Conclusion: Tanshinone IIA may protect against CIN through enhancing Nrf2/ARE activation.
Serum from Chronic Hepatitis B Patients Promotes Growth and Proliferation via the IGF-II/IGF-IR/MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Ji Yuanyuan , Wang Zhidong , Chen Haiyan , Zhang Lei , Zhuo Fei , Yang Qingqing
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (CHB) plays a central role in the etiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Emerging evidence implicates insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II as a major risk factor for the growth and development of HCC. However, the relationship between HBV infection and IGF-II functions remains to be elucidated. Methods: Levels of circulating IGF-II and IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) in healthy donors (HDs) and CHB patients were tested by ELISA. Human HCC cell lines (HepG-2, SMMC-7721, MHCC97-H) were incubated with serum from HDs and CHB patients at various concentrations for 24, 48, and 72 h. MTT and plate colony formation assays, BrdU ELISA, ELISA, small-interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection, quantitative real-time PCR, and western blot were applied to assess the functional and molecular mechanisms in HCC cell lines. Results: Serum levels of IGF-II and IGF-IR were significantly higher in CHB patients than in HDs. Additionally, serum from CHB patients directly induced cell growth, proliferation, IGF-II secretion, and HDGF-related protein-2 (HRP-2) and nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1) mRNA and protein expression in HCC cells. Moreover, serum from CHB patients increased IGF-II–induced cell growth, proliferation, and HRP-2 and NUPR1 mRNA and protein expression in HCC cells. Blockade of IGF-IR clearly inhibited the above effects. Most importantly, interference with IGF-II function markedly repressed the cell proliferation and HRP-2 and NUPR1 mRNA and protein expression induced by serum from CHB patients. Furthermore, serum from CHB patients induced ERK phosphorylation via IGF-IR, with the MEK inhibitor PD98059 significantly decreasing CHB patient serum-induced IGF-II secretion, cell proliferation, and HRP-2 and NUPR1 mRNA and protein expression. Conclusion: Serum from CHB patients increases cell growth and proliferation and enhances HRP-2 and NUPR1 expression in HCC cells via the IGF-II/IGF-IR/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. These findings help to explain the molecular mechanisms underlying HBV-related HCC and may lead to the development of effective therapies.
The Calcium-Sensing Receptor Gene Polymorphism rs1801725 and Calcium-Related Phenotypes in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Grzegorzewska Alicja E. , Bednarski Dariusz , Świderska Monika , Mostowska Adrianna , Jagodziński Paweł P.
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: The calcium-sensing receptor gene (CASR) rs1801725 variant is responsible for a non-conservative amino-acid change (A986S) in the calcium-sensing receptor cytoplasmic tail. We hypothesized that rs1801725 polymorphism might be helpful in understanding Ca-related abnormalities in HD patients. Methods: In 1215 subjects (245 on cinacalcet), we determined the associations of rs1801725 with secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPT)-related laboratory parameters, PTH-decreasing effect of cinacalcet hydrochloride, coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), nephrolithiasis-related ESRD, and mortality. CASR rs7652589(AT) haplotypes and rs1801725 epistatic interactions with vitamin D signaling pathway genes were examined for associations with selected phenotypes. Results: The rs1801725 variant allele showed an increasing independent effect on plasma PTH (Pcorrected = 0.009). CASR rs7652589_rs1801725 AT haplotype was associated with 1.7-fold higher frequency of PTH levels over 437 pg/mL than the reference haplotype GG (P = 0.001). CASR rs7652589_rs1801725 AG haplotype was 1.5-fold more frequent in nephrolithiasis-related ESRD than the GG haplotype (P = 0.004). There were no significant associations between rs1801725, CAD, MI, and response to cinacalcet. Variant homozygosity of rs1801725 correlated independently with higher infection-related mortality compared with heterozygosity (HR 7.95, 95%CI 2.15 – 29.37, P = 0.003) and major homozygosity (HR 5.89, 95%CI 1.69 – 20.55, P = 0.040). CASR rs1801725 did not show epistatic interactions with vitamin D signaling pathway genes concerning tested associations. Conclusion: The variant allele of CASR rs1801725 solely and together with the variant allele of rs7652589 increases risk of more advanced sHPT. Homozygosity of the rs1801725 variant allele contributes to infection-related mortality in HD patients.
Different Relevance of Peripheral, Central or Nighttime Blood Pressure Measurements in the Prediction of Chronic Kidney Disease Progression in Patients with Mild or No-Proteinuria
Authors: Kuczera Piotr , Kwiecień Katarzyna , Adamczak Marcin , Bączkowska Teresa , Gozdowska Jolanta , Madziarska Katarzyna , Augustyniak-Bartosik Hanna , Klinger Marian , Durlik Magdalena , Ritz Eberhard , Wiecek Andrzej
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Arterial hypertension is one of the leading factors aggravating the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It seems that the novel parameters used in the assessment of the blood pressure (BP) load (i.e. central blood pressure, nighttime blood pressure) may be more precise in predicting the cardiovascular risk and the progression of CKD in comparison with the traditional peripheral blood pressure measurements in the office conditions. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the central, or nighttime blood pressure on the progression of CKD in patients with mild or no-proteinuria (autosomal, dominant polycystic kidney disease or IgA nephropathy). Methods: In each of the enrolled 46 patients with CKD stage 3 or 4, serum creatinine concentration was assessed, eGFR (MDRD) was calculated, also central blood pressure and pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed and the 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) was conducted at the beginning of the study and then repeated after one-year observation period. Results: During the observation period mean eGFR decreased from 44.1 (33.2-50.6) mL/min to 36.7 (29.7-46.3) mL/min. No significant differences were observed in the peripheral blood pressure or central blood pressure parameters. After one-year observation period the values of diastolic blood pressure dipping during the night significantly decreased from 16 (13-19) mmHg to 12 (10-15) mmHg; p< 0.05. The values of systolic dipping during the night or the mean BP values recorded in ABPM did not change significantly. Additionally, no significant differences in the PWV values were found. In the multivariate regression model the change of serum creatinine concentration was explained by the initial diastolic dipping values. Conclusion: 1. In patients with CKD stages 3 or 4 and mild or no- proteinuria, peripheral and central blood pressure did not change significantly during a one-year observation period despite the significant decline of eGFR and seems not to participate in the CKD progression. 2. Reduced magnitude of the diastolic dipping, which reflects the increase of diastolic blood pressure load during the nighttime, may play an important role in the pathogenesis of deterioration of kidney function in these patients.
Inactivation of USP14 Perturbs Ubiquitin Homeostasis and Delays the Cell Cycle in Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts and in Fruit Fly Drosophila
Authors: Lee Jung Hoon , Park Seoyoung , Yun Yejin , Choi Won Hoon , Kang Min-Ji , Lee Min Jae
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: The 26S proteasome is the key proteolytic complex for recognition and degradation of polyubiquitinated target substrates in eukaryotes. Among numerous proteasome-associated proteins, a deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) USP14 has been identified as an endogenous inhibitor of the proteasome. Here, we explored the complex regulatory functions of USP14 that involve ubiquitin (Ub) homeostasis and substrate degradation in flies and mammals. Methods: USP14-null primary and immortalized mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and USP14 knocked-down Drosophila were analyzed in this study. We measured proteasome and DUB activities using fluorogenic reporter substrates and adduct-forming probes. To examine the levels of ubiquitin, we performed immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Mass spectrometry (MS) was used to examine polyUb chain linkages and USP14-interacing proteins. Cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry, BrdU labeling, and phospho-histone H3 staining. Results: The homeostasis of Ub in USP14–/–MEFs was markedly perturbed because of facilitated clearance of Ub. This phenomenon was recapitulated in muscles of USP14-deficient Drosophila with old ages. Absolute quantitation using MS also revealed that USP14–/– MEFs contained significantly increased amounts of Ub, compared with wild-type. The key phenotype of USP14–/– MEFs was their delayed proliferation originated from prolonged interphase possibly through aberrant degradation of cyclins A and B1. We found that knocking down USP14 in Drosophila resulted in delayed eye development associated with reduced mitotic activity. Conclusion: Our study identifies novel cellular functions of USP14 not only in cellular Ub hometostasis but also in cell cycle progression. USP14 was also essential for proper Drosophila eye development. These results strongly suggest that the USP14-mediated proteasome activity regulation may be directly related to various human diseases including cancer.
Arte e ciência: análise de conceitos físicos e trabalho colaborativo na obra As Ruas de Bagdá ou Aranha Marrom não usa Roberto Carlos
Authors: Beaklini Pedro Paulo Bonetti
Published: May 2018

A relação entre arte e ciência e seus respectivos processos criativos despertam interesse tanto em artistas quanto em cientistas. Neste artigo é discutida a relação entre a física e as artes cênicas a partir da minha participação no espetáculo As Ruas de Bagdá ou Aranha Marrom não usa Roberto Carlos. O impacto de conceitos científicos no teatro é discutido primeiramente de forma ampla, para então ser focado nesta obra, ressaltando as vantagens do diálogo entre as áreas.
Carta de montagem, documentário e peça: Bom Retiro 958 metros
Authors: Mocarzel Evaldo
Published: May 2018

Na seção Forma Livre, a Revista Aspas conta com a participação do cineasta Evaldo Mocarzel, que tem acompanhado e documentado processos de criação de vários grupos da cena paulistana. O texto, uma carta endereçada à montadora Camila Marquez, entrelaça as linguagens do teatro e do cinema a partir do espetáculo Bom Retiro 958 metros, do Teatro da Vertigem. Durante dois anos e meio, e depois de já ter realizado quatro filmes em parceria com a companhia, o cineasta tenta transpor as experiências vividas no processo. O relato, que serviu como guia para a edição do filme, contextualiza a montadora de forma ampla: a importância do grupo no cenário teatral, as especificidades da linguagem da companhia, a postura do cineasta com relação ao grupo e ao acompanhamento realizado e, claro, as etapas do longo processo que resultou no espetáculo estreado em 2012. A pedido da Revista Aspas, os filmes Bom Retiro 958 metros (Peça) e Bom Retiro 958 metros (Documentário) fazem parte deste dossiê sobre acompanhamento de processos e foram disponibilizados na íntegra, especialmente para compor esta edição.
Rotas interligadas: cartografias de uma artista inquieta
Authors: Vomero Maria Fernanda
Published: May 2018

Este artigo reúne anotações e reflexões sobre o entrelaçamento de percursos criativos – provocação artística, curadoria de ações pedagógicas e pesquisa acadêmica – e os aprendizados advindos da análise de processos cênicos por meio da abordagem cartográfica, uma metodologia que contempla, além do fenômeno estudado, a experiência e o próprio pensar sobre a produção de conhecimento.
Bricolagem metodológica na compreensão de performances interativas no espaço público
Authors: Santos Vanessa Sonia
Published: May 2018

Este artigo discute novas perspectivas na condução de estudos acadêmicos que possam gerar um pluralismo metodológico a partir da aproximação entre reflexão teórica e elaboração prática. Apresenta um projeto de pesquisa que incluiu a concepção da performance Chronica Mobilis para exemplificar como o processo de criação artística pode servir como meio principal de entendimento da experiência, tanto do pesquisador, convertido em realizador, quanto das pessoas em relação à obra concebida. A bricolagem metodológica feita pelo estudo mencionado, em uma combinação entre fazer artístico e métodos científicos tradicionais, sinaliza para um conhecimento que também pode ser adquirido com o processo prático. Este artigo argumenta em favor da validade e da legitimação desse método, apontando para a criação de um saber no sentido experiencial.
Genetic Targeting of Organ-Specific Blood Vessels
Authors: Pu Wenjuan , He Lingjuan , Han Ximeng , Tian Xueying , Li Yan , Zhang Hui , Liu Qiaozhen , Huang Xiuzhen , Zhang Libo , Wang Qing-Dong , Yu Zhenyang , Yang Xiao , Smart Nicola , Zhou Bin
Published: May 2018

Rationale:

Organs of the body require vascular networks to supply oxygen and nutrients and maintain physiological function. The blood vessels of different organs are structurally and functionally heterogeneous in nature. To more precisely dissect their distinct in vivo function in individual organs, without potential interference from off-site targets, it is necessary to genetically target them in an organ-specific manner.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to generate a genetic system that targets vascular endothelial cells in an organ- or tissue-specific manner and to exemplify the potential application of intersectional genetics for precise, target-specific gene manipulation in vivo.

Methods and Results:

We took advantage of 2 orthogonal recombination systems, Dre-rox and Cre-loxP, to create a genetic targeting system based on intersectional genetics. Using this approach, Cre activity was only detectable in cells that had expressed both Dre and Cre. Applying this new system, we generated a coronary endothelial cell–specific Cre (
CoEC-Cre
) and a brain endothelial cell–specific Cre (
BEC-Cre
). Through lineage tracing, gene knockout and overexpression experiments, we demonstrated that
CoEC-Cre
and
BEC-Cre
efficiently and specifically target blood vessels in the heart and brain, respectively. By deletion of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 using
BEC-Cre
, we showed that vascular endothelial growth factor signaling regulates angiogenesis in the central nervous system and also controls the integrity of the blood-brain barrier.

Conclusions:

We provide 2 examples to illustrate the use of intersectional genetics for more precise gene targeting in vivo, namely manipulation of genes in blood vessels of the heart and brain. More broadly, this system provides a valuable strategy for tissue-specific gene manipulation that can be widely applied to other fields of biomedical research.
Dynamic Encoding of Effort and Reward throughout the Execution of Action by External Globus Pallidus Neurons in Monkeys
Authors: Nougaret Simon , Ravel Sabrina
Published: May 2018

Humans and animals must evaluate the costs and expected benefits of their actions to make adaptive choices. Prior studies have demonstrated the involvement of the basal ganglia in this evaluation. However, little is known about the role of the external part of the globus pallidus (GPe), which is well positioned to integrate motor and reward-related information, in this process. To investigate this role, the activity of 126 neurons was recorded in the associative and limbic parts of the GPe of two monkeys performing a behavioral task in which different levels of force were required to obtain different amounts of liquid reward. The results first revealed that the activity of associative and limbic GPe neurons could be modulated not only by cognitive and limbic but also motor information at the same time, both during a single period or during different periods throughout the trial, mainly in an independent way. Moreover, as a population, GPe neurons encoded these types of information dynamically throughout the trial, when each piece of information was the most relevant for the achievement of the action. Taken together, these results suggest that GPe neurons could be dedicated to the parallel monitoring of task parameters essential to adjusting and maintaining goal-directed behavior.
Mental Health and Human Rights: Brazil and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights Jurisprudence
Authors: Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena
Published: May 2018

International human rights instruments are important to mental health as a source of international scrutiny of mental health policies and practices. Nevertheless, people with mental illnesses continue to have their rights violated in different settings and situations. The aim of this research was to bring to light human rights violations targeting persons with mental illness judged by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR), focusing on countries that ratified or adhered to the American Convention on Human Rights and accepted the jurisdiction of IACHR. Data were collected at the IACHR site through the reading of the Court’s judgments. The research resulted in the case of Damião Ximenes Lopes v. Brazil, which was analysed based on the international and regional human rights framework, specifically focusing on the right to health and mental health, highlighting the intersection between this framework and the mental health law, policies and services in Brazil.
Exit the ‘Great Man’: On James Crossley’s Jesus and the Chaos of History
Authors: Joseph Simon J.
Published: May 2018

In Jesus and the Chaos of History (JCH), James G. Crossley invites us to ‘rethink some of the ways we approach the historical Jesus.’ The result of many years of critical engagement in Jesus Research, JCH is a helpful overview of the current state of the field and a programmatic set of essays seeking to ‘redirect’ Jesus Research by finding new ways to account for the social, economic, and political factors inherent and implicit in ‘historical change.’ In this review, I would like to engage and think with four of Crossley’s proposals: (1) the concept of an ‘Earliest Palestinian Tradition’; (2) the construction of Jesus as a ‘Great Man’; (3) the Jewish Jesus’ Torah observance; and (4) Jesus’ relationship to politico-military revolution and ‘(non)violence’.
An Examination of an Inland-Penetrating Atmospheric River Flood Event under Potential Future Thermodynamic Conditions
Authors: Mahoney Kelly , Swales Dustin , Mueller Michael J. , Alexander Michael , Abel Mimi R. , Malloy Kelsey
Published: May 2018

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are well-known producers of precipitation along the U.S. West Coast. Depending on their intensity, orientation, and location of landfall, some ARs penetrate inland and cause heavy rainfall and flooding hundreds of miles from the coast. Climate change is projected to potentially alter a variety of AR characteristics and impacts. This study examines potential future changes in moisture transport and precipitation intensity, type, and distribution for a high-impact landfalling AR event in the U.S. Pacific Northwest using an ensemble of high-resolution numerical simulations produced under projected future thermodynamic changes.

Results indicate increased total precipitation in all future simulations, although there is considerable model spread in both domain-averaged and localized inland precipitation totals. Notable precipitation enhancements across inland locations such as Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountain Range are present in four out of six future simulations. The most marked inland precipitation increases are shown to occur by way of stronger and deeper moisture transport that more effectively crosses Oregon’s Coastal and Cascade mountain ranges, essentially “spilling over” into the Snake River Valley and fueling orographic precipitation in the Sawtooth Mountains. Moisture transport enhancements are shown to have both thermodynamic and dynamic contributions, with both enhanced absolute environmental moisture and localized lower- and midlevel dynamics contributing to amplified inland moisture penetration. Precipitation that fell as snow in the present-day simulation becomes rain in the future simulations for many mid- and high-elevation locations, suggesting potential for enhanced flood risk for these regions in future climate instances of similar events.
Microphysical Properties and Radar Polarimetric Features within a Warm Front
Authors: Keppas S. Ch. , Crosier J. , Choularton T. W. , Bower K. N.
Published: May 2018

On 21 January 2009, the warm front of an extensive low pressure system affected U.K. weather. In this work, macroscopic and microphysical characteristics of this warm front are investigated using in situ (optical array probes, temperatures sensors, and radiosondes) and S-band polarimetric radar data from the Aerosol Properties, Processes and Influences on the Earth’s Climate–Clouds project. The warm front was associated with a warm conveyor belt, a zone of wind speeds of up to 26 m s−1, which played a key role in the formation of extensive mixed-phase cloud mass by ascending significant liquid water (LWC; ~0.22 g m−3) at a level ~3 km and creating an ideal environment at temperatures ~ −5°C for ice multiplication. Then, “generating cells,” which formed in the unstable and sheared layer above the warm conveyor belt, influenced the structure of the stratiform cloud layer, dividing it into two types of elongated and slanted ice fall streaks: one depicted by large ZDR values and the other by large ZH values. The different polarimetric characteristics of these ice fall streaks reveal their different microphysical properties, such as the ice habit, concentration, and size. We investigate their evolution, which was affected by the warm conveyor belt, and their impact on the surface precipitation.
The Making of an Eastern Mediterranean Gateway City: Izmir in the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Inal Onur
Published: May 2018

In the mid- to late nineteenth century, the Ottoman port-city of Izmir underwent a transformation more rapid than at any other time in all its long history. In this period, much of the urban and rural landscape people inhabited today in Western Anatolia was created: a large port-city with modern facilities, the remarkably fertile farmlands, and the major transportation linkages that connect the city with the interior. There have been studies focusing on the spectacular growth of Ottoman Izmir with reference to external trade; however, the complex interplay between city and country have been underestimated. This article discusses the role and significance of social, economic, and ecological changes that took place in the Western Anatolian countryside for the drastic urban transformations the city underwent in the late nineteenth century. It proposes the gateway city model to understand Izmir’s growth and prosperity in tandem with Western Anatolia in this period.
Use of Information Criteria in the Study of Group Differences in Trace Lines
Authors: Kim Seock-Ho , Cohen Allan S. , Cho Sun-Joo , Eom Hyo Jin
Published: May 2018

A brief review of various information criteria is presented for the detection of differential item functioning (DIF) under item response theory (IRT). An illustration of using information criteria for model selection as well as results with simulated data are presented and contrasted with the IRT likelihood ratio (LR) DIF detection method. Use of information criteria for general IRT model selection is discussed.
Republicans Value Agency, Democrats Value Communion
Authors: Eriksson Kimmo
Published: May 2018

Drawing on the theory of the “Big Two” content dimensions of social judgment—agency and communion—the author proposes that several findings about partisan differences in the United States can be integrated into one hypothesis: Republicans tend to put greater value on agency, while Democrats put greater value on communion. Moreover, on the basis of these values, Republicans and Democrats should judge their own groups as particularly superior on agency and communion, respectively. These hypotheses gained support in three studies on partisan values and ingroup bias, suggesting that the agency-communion framework may be useful for researchers studying how political groups differ in their worldviews, biases, and attitudes.
Women’s Experiences in eSports: Gendered Differences in Peer and Spectator Feedback During Competitive Video Game Play
Authors: Ruvalcaba Omar , Shulze Jeffrey , Kim Angela , Berzenski Sara R. , Otten Mark P.
Published: May 2018

Despite the growing popularity of eSports, the poor representation of women players points to a need to understand the experiences of female players during competitive gaming online. The present study focuses on female gamers’ experiences with positive and negative feedback and sexual harassment in the male-dominated space of eSports. In Study 1, gender differences were analyzed in online gamers’ experience with feedback from other players and spectators during online play. In Study 2, gender differences were analyzed in observations of real gameplay that focused on the types of comments spectators directed toward female and male gamers on Twitch (a popular video game streaming website). The findings suggest a mixed experience for women that includes more sexual harassment in online gaming compared with men.
Reciprocal Predictive Accuracy of Sinonasal Symptom Severity, Nasal Endoscopy, and Frequency of Past Chronic Rhinosinusitis Exacerbations
Authors: Speth Marlene M. , Gaudin Robert A. , Hoehle Lloyd P. , Phillips Katie M. , Caradonna David S. , Gray Stacey T. , Sedaghat Ahmad R.
Published: May 2018

Objective

We sought to determine whether chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) symptom severity, endoscopic exam findings, and acute exacerbation of CRS (AECRS) frequency—all important and distinct clinical manifestations of CRS—would be predictive of each other and, therefore, inform when further assessment of each other metric should be pursued.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary academic rhinology clinic.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 241 patients with CRS were prospectively recruited and completed the 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) to reflect CRS symptom severity. AECRS frequency was assessed using the number of sinus infections as well as CRS‐related antibiotics and CRS‐related oral corticosteroids used in the past 3 months. An endoscopy score was calculated for each patient.

Results

SNOT‐22 score and AECRS were predictive of each other while AECRS and endoscopy score were not predictive of each other. SNOT‐22 score could be used to predict having had, in the past 3 months, at least 1 sinus infection (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.727; P <. 001), at least 1 CRS‐related antibiotic used (AUC = 0.691; P <. 001), or at least 1 CRS‐related oral corticosteroid course used (AUC = 0.655; P <. 001). Having a SNOT‐22 score ≥30 could be predicted by reporting at least 1 sinus infection (AUC = 0.634; P <. 001), CRS‐related antibiotics (AUC = 0.614; P <. 001), or CRS‐related oral corticosteroids (AUC = 0.616; P <. 001) in the past 3 months. These relationships held for patients with and without nasal polyps.

Conclusion

The predictive power of CRS outcome measures reflecting symptomatology, AECRS frequency, and endoscopic findings may be of clinical utility in situations where time or resources are limited to perform an ideally full assessment of patients with CRS.
Teaching building performance simulation: Considerations on methodologies and course levels
Authors: Hernandez Neto Alberto
Published: May 2018

This paper presents considerations on three aspects of teaching building simulation: course content, students’ background, and teaching methodology. Based on the literature review, an overview of different strategies and courses formats for teaching building performance simulation is presented. Combining the information gathered in the literature review, the feedback from the students in a short course and an online survey with simulation experts, these aspects are analyzed, and some suggestions and actions are presented. Among the several methodologies presented in the literature review, the project or problem-based methodology provides the best results for an effective learning. Also, a proposal for course format is presented taking into account different students’ backgrounds (novice, intermediate, advanced, and expert).
Application of a Cost-Allocation Model to Swiss Bus and Train Lines
Authors: Sinner Marc , Weidmann Ulrich , Nash Andrew
Published: May 2018

Public transport costs are an important decision factor when making system design choices and network or timetable planning. Although many cost models of varying degrees of sophistication have been proposed in literature, practitioners often use relatively simple models such as purely vehicle-kilometer-based cost estimations. This paper applies a cost-allocation model to Swiss bus and train lines. The proposed model is based on operating statistics including ‘productive hours’, vehicle-kilometers, vehicle number and size. The cost model is then applied to a case study for a generic public transport line with a typical demand distribution. The case study calculates the demand level at which train service becomes more effective than bus service for various combinations of minimal frequency, average speed and maximum number of coupled Electric Multiple Units.
Effects of Light-Activated Self-Healing Polymers on the Rheological Behaviors of Asphalt Binder Containing Recycled Asphalt Shingles
Authors: Shirzad Sharareh , Hassan Marwa M. , Aguirre Max A. , Cooper Samuel , Negulescu Ioan I.
Published: May 2018

A new generation of ultraviolet (UV) light-activated, self-healing polymers was evaluated with the aim to enhance the elastic recovery of the binder and to increase its self-healing abilities. This study had three main objectives: (a) to develop an optimized synthesis procedure for producing light-activated self-healing polymers, (b) to examine the thermal stability of the prepared self-healing polymers, and (c) to evaluate the effect of self-healing polymers on the rheological properties of asphalt binder containing binder extracted from recycled asphalt shingles (RAS). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of UV-activated polymers in the laboratory. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis showed that the materials produced achieved the required thermal stability at high temperature. Measuring the viscosity of different binder blends with and without RAS and with and without self-healing polymers revealed that the additive decreased the viscosity of the binder blends containing RAS, thereby providing blends with a better workability. Furthermore, rheological results showed that the rutting resistance of the binder blends containing RAS was improved by increasing the percentage of self-healing polymer. Results also showed improved rheological behaviors at low service temperature with 5% self-healing polymer and with exposure to UV light.
An Examination of the Psychometric Properties and Validation of the Family Resource Scale for Families Seeking Assistance With Their Child’s Behavioral Difficulties
Authors: Patwardhan Irina , Duppong Hurley Kristin , Lambert Matthew , Ringle Jay L.
Published: May 2018

Psychometric properties of the 30-item Family Resource Scale (FRS) were examined in a sample of families seeking assistance for their child’s behavioral difficulties ( N = 300). The FRS is a measure that assesses the adequacy of family resources across several contexts including intra-family support and personal resources. Our analyses supported a modified 29-item four-factor solution ( basic needs, extra money and time, time for family, and essential) compared with the seven-factor solution provided by the developers. Results showed that families’ perception of their resources as adequate across all domains was associated with better family functioning and less caregiver strain. Combined, our findings suggest modifications to the existent structure of the FRS.
Betwixt and Between Well and Sick in Cervical Precancer: Canadian Women’s Experiences of Recurring HPV Infections and HPV Vaccination
Authors: Wyndham-West Michelle , Durand Nancy , Santoro Aimee
Published: May 2018

Background

This research fuses the experiences of a precancer diagnosis with the decision-making surrounding a vaccine that can protect against human papillomavirus strains that women may not have been exposed to. The interviewee cohort is of note as half the women were in their 30s and 40s and 75% were over the age of 26. These groupings are often overlooked in media discourses and narrative research surrounding human papillomavirus and the human papillomavirus vaccine.

Purpose

Womens’ diagnoses and treatment experiences, including colposcopies, biopsies, and Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedures, are chronicled to highlight a liminal, precancerous state—one in which they are not deemed healthy, but nor have they been diagnosed with cancer. These are emotion-filled experiences that are ridden with anxiety and fear, but also ones that are structured with self-care strategies to contain human papillomavirus infections and the risk of cervical cancer.

Methods

Twenty women who attended Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre’s human papillomavirus vaccination clinic were interviewed and their narratives were documented and analyzed to determine their experiences surrounding human papillomavirus infections and precancer as well as their motivations for human papillomavirus vaccination.

Results

The decision to undergo human papillomavirus vaccination was a self-care strategy that accompanied treatment procedures and was a means to reduce cervical cancer risk. While encouraged with the human papillomavirus vaccine’s potential to curb cervical cancer, they had a tempered view of the vaccine and its effectiveness in their cases, given their medical histories.

Conclusions

The research provides an in-depth accounting of an often overlooked grouping in human papillomavirus and human papillomavirus vaccination research and media discourse which, generally, focuses upon middle-school-aged girls and university-/college-aged women. In addition, the research provides recommendations for practice for cervical precancer diagnoses going forward.
A Pilot Study of a Culturally Grounded Breastfeeding Intervention for Pregnant, Low-Income African American Women
Authors: Reno Rebecca
Published: May 2018

Background:

Increasing breastfeeding rates among low-income African American women may work toward the achievement of health equity. The dynamic breastfeeding assessment process (D-BAP) is a community-grounded, equity-focused intervention designed to increase prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy.

Research aim:

The aims of the pilot study were (a) to determine the effect of the D-BAP on breastfeeding self-efficacy among pregnant, low-income African American women, (b) to examine the findings among women with no previous breastfeeding experience, and (c) to compare the findings between women with prior breastfeeding experience and those without it.

Methods:

A pre/post, paired-samples design was utilized. Convenience sampling was used to recruit pregnant, low-income African American women ( N = 25). Participants completed the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form prior to and following the D-BAP.

Results:

The Wilcoxon signed rank test indicated that participation in the D-BAP had a statistically significant influence on breastfeeding self-efficacy ( z = −2.01, p = .04). Among a subsample of participants with no previous breastfeeding experience ( n = 12), completion of the D-BAP resulted in a statistically significant increase in breastfeeding self-efficacy ( z = −2.36, p = .02). There was no statistically significant difference between those with prior breastfeeding experience and those without it.

Conclusion:

Breastfeeding among low-income African American women is a health equity issue for which culturally responsive, effective breastfeeding interventions are needed. This research demonstrates an association between completion of the D-BAP and an increase in prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy.
Histological predictors of renal outcome in lupus nephritis: the importance of tubulointerstitial lesions and scoring of glomerular lesions
Authors: Obrișcă B , Jurubiță R , Andronesi A , Sorohan B , Achim C , Bobeica R , Gherghiceanu M , Mandache E , Ismail G
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Lupus nephritis (LN) affects nearly 60% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and up to 30% of them will progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), despite receiving aggressive immunosuppressive therapy. The prognostic value of ISN/RPS classification is controversial. Therefore, we aimed to identify clinical and pathological predictors of outcome in LN patients independent of this classification.

Material and methods

Thirty-seven patients with LN who underwent percutaneous kidney biopsy between 1997 and 2016 were included in this study. Twenty clinical and twenty histological variables were tested for their association with a composite end-point of doubling of serum creatinine, ESRD and death. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis were performed to identify independent predictors of outcome.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 48 months (IQR: 17.5–120 months), 21.6% of patients reached the composite end-point. The overall survival rate of our cohort was 89% at one year, 86% at five years, 74% at 10 years and 64% at 20 years. Patients with Class IV LN showed the worst prognosis with 44% survival at 10 years, while those who additionally showed crescents and global sclerosis on kidney biopsy had an even lower survival of 21% and 0% at 10 years, respectively. After multivariate adjustment, we identified estimated glomerular filtration rate at baseline (HR, 0.91 per ml/min /1.73 m2; 95% CI, 0.84 to 0.99), 24-hour proteinuria at baseline (HR, 2.04 per g/d; 95% CI, 1.19 to 3.5), crescents (HR, 1.068 per %; 95% CI, 1.003 to 1.091), global sclerosis (HR, 1.036 per %; 95% CI, 0.984 to 1.091), presence of adhesions (HR, 9.2; 95% CI, 1.38 to 61.2) and tubulitis (HR, 13.1; 95% CI; 1.3 to 131) as independent predictors of outcome in our cohort of LN.

Conclusions

Our study identified glomerular (crescents, global sclerosis, adhesions) and tubulointerstitial (tubulitis) lesions, in addition to clinical variables (renal function, 24-hour proteinuria), as important predictors of renal outcome, independent of the ISN/RPS classification. We suggest that the ISN/RPS classification could be improved by a quantitative assessment of glomeruli with active and chronic lesions and by a greater emphasis given to tubulointerstitial lesions.
Possible Emission Reductions From Ride-Sourcing Travel in a Global Megacity: The Case of Beijing
Authors: Xue Meimei , Yu Biying , Du Yunfei , Wang Bin , Tang Baojun , Wei Yi-Ming
Published: May 2018

Urban transportation in China is undergoing a revolution due to ride-sourcing. The strong growth in ride-sourcing travel requires the government and the industry to adopt strategies for reducing environmental impact. Here, we address a key gap in knowledge on the emerging ride-sourcing travel model by designing a roadmap for realizing low-emission ride-sourcing drawing from an analysis of raw big trip data for Beijing. We found that adopting the most effective low-emission strategies requires joint efforts involving governance and management, enterprise operations, and consumer behavior change. With respect to issues of feasibility and effectiveness, the enterprise operation strategy, involving polices that shorten the pick-up time and increase the vehicle occupancy, is the best option, offering approximately 44% CO2 and NOx emission reductions compared with the current situation. Promoting ride-sourcing usage among car users or potential car users could help reduce emissions attributing to less cars being manufactured (26% CO2 and 24% NOx) but with uncertainty. To achieve low-emission ride-sourcing travel, governments, enterprises, and consumers must collaborate closely and define clear roles, responsibilities, and relationships.
Naming the Unspeakable Harm of Street Harassment: A Survey-Based Examination of Disclosure Practices
Authors: Fileborn Bianca
Published: May 2018

Street harassment may be considered an “unspeakable” harm on account of the routine silencing and trivialization of victims’ experiences. Disclosing street harassment is vital in making its harms visible and in working to transform social and cultural attitudes. Despite a recent resurgence of interest in street harassment via online activist groups, there is scant research on disclosure practices. Drawing on findings from an online, mixed-methods survey with 292 participants who have experienced street harassment, I examine disclosure practices using an intersectional lens. I argue that disclosure is an epistemological process, through which a limited and partial understanding of street harassment is produced.
Irritable bowel symptoms, use of healthcare, costs, sickness and disability pension benefits: A long-term population-based study
Authors: Poulsen Chalotte H. , Eplov Lene F. , Hjorthøj Carsten , Hastrup Lene H. , Eliasen Marie , Dantoft Thomas M. , Schröder Andreas , Jørgensen Torben
Published: May 2018

Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with increased healthcare use and work absenteeism. We aimed to investigate long-term use of healthcare services and social benefits across IBS symptom groups. Additionally, we estimated excess healthcare costs. Methods: A longitudinal population-based study comprising two 5-year follow-up studies: The Danish part of the Multinational Monitoring of Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease (Dan-MONICA) 1 (1982–1987) and Inter99 (1999–2004) recruited from the western part of Copenhagen County. The total study population ( n = 7278) was divided into symptom groups according to degree of IBS definition fulfillment at baseline and/or 5-year follow-up and was followed until 31 December 2013 in Danish central registries. Poisson regression was used for the analyses adjusting for age, sex, length of education, comorbidity, cohort membership and mental vulnerability. Results: IBS symptom groups compared to no IBS symptoms were associated with an increased number of contacts with primary and secondary healthcare, as well as weeks on sickness and disability benefits. Accounting for mental vulnerability decreased the estimates and all but two associations between IBS symptom groups and outcomes remained statistically significant. The two associations that became insignificant were contacts with psychiatric hospitals and weeks on disability pension. The excess unadjusted healthcare costs for IBS were 680 Euros per year and the overall association between symptom groups and total healthcare costs were statistically significant. Conclusions: IBS symptoms influence the long-term use and costs of healthcare, as well as the use of social benefits in the general population. Mental vulnerability explained some, but not all, of the use of healthcare and social benefits.
“If I have to clean, I clean my own shop”: Migrant entrepreneurship as a form of emplacement in times of crisis: The example of Italy
Authors: Lintner Claudia
Published: May 2018

This article analyses the relation between European economic crisis and immigration. It does so by analysing the establishment of migrants’ entrepreneurship activities in Italy, and by looking at how these activities unravel subjects’ agency in confronting constraining socioeconomic conditions and restrictive immigration laws. In this perspective, entrepreneurship should be understood as a possibility for transforming a person’s own incorporated cultural capital into a resource and, consequently, into an opportunity for self-created work performance. Interpreting entrepreneurship as a personal response of migrants to the economic recession offers a new perspective in the existing literature on migrant entrepreneurship. Crisis, in this paper, is not seen as an abstract and supernatural phenomenon leading and controlling the capacity of individuals to act, but is understood as a constructed set of meanings comprising social interactions and relationships and consolidated within public discourses. This study is based on a qualitative-explorative research approach and was carried out in South Tyrol, Italy. For the data collection, different qualitative methods were used: narrative interviews, informal discussions and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was based on the coding processes described within the Grounded Theory. As the results show, crisis as such represents, on the one hand, a critical moment of transition or transformation of normality and the constituted ways of acting and thinking and, on the other hand, it is perceived as a new opportunity to change individual behaviour and to initiate innovative counter-strategies that will maintain a person’s capacity to act even in critical personal and structural situations. Nevertheless, showing resilience, which is powerful and leads to change, depends not only on personal motivational forces but also to given opportunity structures.