bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of APOE ε Genotype on Lipoprotein(a) and the Associated Risk of Myocardial Infarction and Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Kritharides Leonard , Nordestgaard Børge G , Tybjærg-Hansen Anne , Kamstrup Pia R , Afzal Shoaib
Published: June 2017

Context

APOE ε2/3/4 genotypes affect plasma lipoprotein(a); however, the effects of APOE genotypes on the prediction of myocardial infarction and aortic valve stenosis by lipoprotein(a) are unknown.

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that APOEε2/3/4 genotype affects plasma lipoprotein(a), the contribution of plasma apoE levels to this association as well as the associated risk of myocardial infarction and aortic valve stenosis.

Design and Outcome Measures

In 46,615 individuals from the general population, we examined plasma lipoprotein(a), APOE ε2/3/4, and incidence of myocardial infarction (n = 1807) and aortic valve stenosis (n = 345) over 37 years of follow-up (range: 0.3 to 38 years).

Results

Compared with ε33, age- and sex-adjusted lipoprotein(a) concentrations were lower by 15% in ε23, by 24% in ε24, and by 36% in ε22; adjusted for plasma apolipoprotein E, corresponding values were 22%, 28%, and 62%. These reductions were independent of LPA genotypes. Compared with ε2 carriers with lipoprotein(a) ≤50 mg/dL, the hazard ratio for myocardial infarction was 1.26 (95% confidence interval: 1.06 to 1.49) for ε2 noncarriers with lipoprotein(a) ≤50 mg/dL, 1.68 (1.21 to 2.32) for ε2 carriers with lipoprotein(a) >50 mg/dL, and 1.92 (1.59 to 2.32) for ε2 noncarriers with lipoprotein(a) >50 mg/dL (interaction, P = 0.57); corresponding values for aortic valve stenosis were 1.05 (0.74 to 1.51), 1.49 (0.72 to 3.08), and 2.04 (1.46 to 2.26) (interaction, P = 0.50). Further adjustment for APOE ε2/3/4 genotype had minimal influence on these risk estimates.

Conclusions

APOE ε2 is a strong genetic determinant of low lipoprotein(a) concentrations but does not modify the causal association of lipoprotein(a) with myocardial infarction or aortic valve stenosis.
Specific expression and function of the Six3optixinDrosophilaserially homologous organs
Authors: Al Khatib Amer , Siomava Natalia , Iannini Antonella , Posnien Nico , Casares Fernando
Published: June 2017

Organ size and pattern results from the integration of two positional information systems. One global, encoded by the Hox genes, links organ type with position along the main body axis. Within specific organs, local information is conveyed by signaling molecules that regulate organ growth and pattern. The mesothoracic (T2) wing and the metathoracic (T3) haltere of Drosophila represent a paradigmatic example of this coordination. The Hox gene Ultrabithorax (Ubx), expressed in the developing T3, selects haltere identity by, among other processes, modulating the production and signaling efficiency of Dpp, a BMP2-like molecule that acts as a major regulator of size and pattern. Still, the mechanisms of the Hox-signal integration even in this well-studied system are incomplete. Here, we have investigated this issue by studying the expression and function of the Six3 transcription factor optix during the development of the Drosophila wing and haltere development. We find that in both organs Dpp defines the expression domain of optix through repression, and that the specific position of this domain in wing and haltere seems to reflect the differential signaling profile among these organs. We show that optix expression in wing and haltere primordia is conserved beyond Drosophila in other higher diptera. In Drosophila, optix is necessary for the growth of wing and haltere: In the wing, optix is required for the growth of the most anterior/proximal region (the “marginal cell”) and for the correct formation of sensory structures along the proximal anterior wing margin, and the halteres of optix mutants are also significantly reduced. In addition, in the haltere optix is necessary for the suppression of sensory bristles.
The Social Scope of Roman Identity in Byzantium: An Evidence-Based Approach
Authors: KALDELLIS Anthony
Published: June 2017

Η ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΚΗ ΕΜΒΕΛΕΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΡΩΜΑΪΚΗΣ ΤΑΥΤΟΤΗΤΑΣ ΣΤΟ ΒΥΖΑΝΤΙΟ: ΜΙΑ ΠΡΟΣΕΓΓΙΣΗ ΒΑΣΕΙ ΤΩΝ ΓΡΑΠΤΩΝ ΠΗΓΩΝ Έχουν προταθεί προσφάτως αντίθετες ερμηνείες αναφορικά με την κοινή διαπίστωση ότι οι Βυζαντινοί «αυτοαποκαλούνται Ρωμαίοι». Σύμφωνα με μία άποψη, το Βυζάντιο ήταν ρωμαϊκό έθνος-κράτος, ενώ αντιθέτως έχει υποστηριχθεί επίσης ότι η ρωμαϊκή ταυτότητα ήταν αποκλειστικότητα μιας αριθμητικά περιορισμένης «ελίτ». Το παρόν άρθρο χαρτογραφεί για πρώτη φορά την κοινωνική εμβέλεια της ρωμαϊκής ταυτότητας, όπως προκύπτει από τις γραπτές πηγές: ποιούς εννοούσαν οι Βυζαντινοί και οι Άραβες συγγραφείς, όταν χρησιμοποιούσαν τον όρο «Ρωμαίοι»; Οι Ρωμαίοι ήταν ένα στενό κοινωνικό-οικονομικό στρώμα ή είχαν συνείδηση ότι αποτελούσαν το μεγαλύτερο μέρος του πληθυσμού της αυτοκρατορίας; Από την ανάλυση των κειμένων προκύπτει ότι η ρωμαϊκή ταυτότητα δεν περιοριζόταν στην πολιτικοκοινωνική ελίτ της αυτοκρατορίας, αλλά αφορούσε σε όλα σχεδόν τα κοινωνικά στρώματα, τόσο στην Κωνσταντινούπολη όσο και στην επαρχία. Η αντίθετη ερμηνεία περί ελίτ βασίζεται σε παραπλανητικές σύγχρονες θεωρίες και όχι στις πρωτογενείς πηγές.
Η Βυζαντινή Οικογένεια των Αγιοθεοδωριτών (ΙΙI)
Authors: ΜΑΔΑΡΙΑΓΑ Ελισάβετ
Published: June 2017

This paper is the third and last part of our prosopographical study on the Hagiotheodorites family members. Here, all known Hagiotheodorites are listed and studied in chronological order from the 12th century, during which most of the family members are active, up to the 14th century.
Recent advances in the treatment of venous thromboembolism in the era of the direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Weitz Jeffrey I. , Jaffer Iqbal H. , Fredenburgh James C.
Published: June 2017

The direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have now supplanted vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The DOACs include dabigatran, which inhibits thrombin, and rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban, which inhibit factor Xa. The DOACs are as effective for the prevention of recurrence as conventional VTE treatment, consisting of a parenteral anticoagulant followed by a VKA, and are associated with less bleeding. Because of these properties and the convenience of fixed dosing without the need for routine coagulation monitoring, guidelines now recommend DOACs over VKAs for VTE treatment in patients without active cancer. This paper examines the increasing role of the DOACs for VTE treatment.
Monitoring respiration and oxygen saturation in patients during the first night after elective bariatric surgery: A cohort study
Authors: Wickerts Liselott , Forsberg Sune , Bouvier Frederic , Jakobsson Jan G.
Published: June 2017

Background: Obstructive sleep apnoea and obese hypoventilation is not uncommon in patients with obesity. Residuals effect from surgery/anaesthesia and opioid analgesics may worsen respiration during the first nights after bariatric surgery. The aim of this observational study was to monitor respiration on the first postoperative night following elective bariatric surgery.

Methods: This observational study aimed to determine the incidence and severity of hypo/apnoea in low risk obsess patients undergoing elective bariatric surgery in general anesthaesia. Patients with known or suspected sleep respiratory disturbances was not included. ESS was scored prior to surgery. Oxygen desaturation was analyzed by continuous respiratory monitoring. Mean oxygen saturation (SpO2), nadir SPo2, apnoea/hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index was assess by standard tools.

Results: 45 patients were monitored with portable polygraphy equipment (Embletta, ResMed) during the first postoperative night at the general ward following elective laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The prop ESS was 0-5 in 22, 6-10 in 14 and 11-16 in 6 of the patients studied (missing data 3). Mean SpO2 was 93%; 10 patients had a mean SpO2 of less than 92% and 4 of less than 90%. The lowest mean SpO2 was 87%. There were 16 patients with a nadir SpO2 of less than 85%, lowest nadir SpO2 being 63%. An Apnoea Hypo/apnoea Index (AHI) > 5 was found in 2 patients only (AHI 10 and 6), and an Oxygen Desaturation index (ODI) > 5 was found in 3 patients (24, 10 and 6, respectively). 3 patients had more prolonged (> 30 seconds) apnoea with nadir SpO2 81%, 83% and 86%. ESS score and type of surgery did not impact on respiration/oxygenation during the observation period.

Conclusions: A low mean SpO2 and episodes of desaturation were not uncommon during the first postoperative night following elective bariatric surgery in patients without history of night time breathing disturbance. AHI and/or ODI of more than 5 were only rarely seen. Night-time respiration monitoring provided seemingly sparse additional information. Further studies are need to assess risk factors and potential impact of the desaturation episodes that occurs during sleep.
One by one – move the object and count out loud
Authors: White Hilary
Published: June 2017

In the first of this series, Hilary White unpicks what is meant by ‘number’ and suggests effective techniques to introduce the counting process, leading on to important next steps in mathematical development.
All about the ‘brain stuff’
Authors: Brodie Kathy
Published: June 2017

Kathy Brodie outlines how a new title from Practical Pre-School Books, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, by Jo Blank and Gill Matthews, is a great resource for new and experienced Key Persons.
‘Establish clear guidelines for keeping Maya hydrated’
Authors: Miller Hilda
Published: June 2017

SENCO Hilda Miller advises a pre-school on the steps it needs to take to ensure it can welcome a child who has medical needs relating to a kidney condition. A risk assessment and care plan need to be established.
Reach for the top!
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: June 2017

There is nothing like a good stretch to re-energise the body and relax the mind. Karen Hart suggests exercises that all children can join in with, to stretch their imaginations as well as their arms and legs.
Time to tidy up
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: June 2017

Karen Hart suggests ways to enthuse children about the task of clearing up and helping to pack away, by giving them their own special jobs which involve working independently and as a team.
Beside the seaside
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: June 2017

Karen Hart suggests simple craft activities that children of all ages will enjoy. Take inspiration from the book Hooray for Fish to make googly eyed, clay fish that children will be proud of!
All tucked up
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: June 2017

Make sleep and bedtime routines a focus for activities which practise being still and moving to music and rhyme. Invite children to a pyjama party and play pillow games that build gross motor skills.
Representations of Post-Revolutionary Iran by Iranian-American Memoirists: Patterns of Access to the Media and Communicative Events
Authors: Seyed Mohammd Marandi  , Zeinab Ghasemi Tari
Published: June 2017

One major element in the discursive reproduction of power and dominance is the structures and strategies of “access” to discourse. Using Van Dijk's argument of dominance and patterns of the preferential access to public discourse, this article attempts to offer more insight into general political, sociocultural, and economic aspects of “knowledge production” on post-revolutionary Iran in the United States in the ways Iranian American memoirs are promoted and publicized through major publishing companies, the popular press, and the mainstream media. Such representations strengthen and reinforce the political discourse surrounding Iran as an “undemocratic” and “barbaric” entity. This article discusses the ways in which the perceptions and views of a minority of Iranians, which often move in parallel with the demonized image of Iran in the United States, are vocalized and promoted through “privileged access” to discourse and “means of communication.”
How Muslims Became Corn
Authors: Uzma Jamil
Published: June 2017

Over the past 16 years, the global “war on terror” has expanded in scope, ranging from US-led military interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, domestic counter-terrorism and counter-radicalization legislation, and mass surveillance of Muslim communities to the “Muslim ban” on citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the US. This expansion in scope has normalized the idea of Muslims as threats to and within Western societies. This article analyzes this process of securitization, how Muslims are constructed as terrorists, and threats to national security, through a discussion of three books that illustrate how violence, politics, and state power are intricately related in the production of the “war on terror.” It advances a critique of the relationship between state power and the construction of knowledge about Muslims as terrorists, whether in the US government-supported counter-radicalization industry or in the documentation of Muslim experiences as prisoners in Guantanamo Bay's prison. Last, this article discusses Muslim agency and the position of racialized scholars in the “war on terror” as a question of authority and scholarship. It notes the gap between those whose voices are legitimized as “experts” on “explaining Muslims” in ways that conform to accepted assumptions about Muslims as threats, and the voices and experiences of racialized scholars whose expertise is considered not “objective” enough.
Pilot Metal Workload in Flight Operation: A case study of Indonesian Civilian Pilot
Authors: Saputra Abadi Dwi
Published: June 2017

This type of activity or work with high stress level and requires more concentration and attention, in this case is the aircraft operation. Thereby mental workload is the most dominant than the physical workload. And this is what should have been a concern, because if mental workload endured by pilot is excessive, it will lower down the quality of work and lead to work safety;  in this case the aircraft operation. Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT) method is used to measure mental workload value, this method consists of three dimensions with their levels, there are: time, mental effort, and psychological stress load. The aim of this study was to know the mental workload of the pilot of an aircraft in flight dimensions: phases of time, phase of flight, terrain condition, and weather, and identifies what factors the most dominant for build of mental workload. The results of studies showed that pilot mental workload will increase when a pilot faced with flight conditions do at early morning (00.00-05:59 am), during weekend and enters the peak season period, and the aircraft will be landing procedures, and also in case of change of wind conditions in flight, and will increasingly when pilot exposed to aircraft operating with route condition which has a land surface is mountainious. This study also showed that the time dimension factor (T) significantly affects the mental workload of pilots, indicating that they put more emphasis on this factor when they are considering workloads.
Waste Tire Application in Concrete Structures
Authors: Maryoto Agus , Waluyo Sugeng , Haryanto Yanuar , Intang Setyo Hermanto Nor
Published: June 2017

The waste tire is produced more than 10 million tons every year in the world. This problem needs serious treatment to eliminate the waste tires. This work is aimed to recycle the waste tire in concrete as a reinforcement. The contribution of the waste tires in flexural strength capacity of concrete is investigated by using experimental work and numerical simulation. Since material is quite non-homogenous compared to the pure concrete, we use six concrete beam specimens with dimension 150 mm x 150 mm x 1000 mm to get better fitting results. One specimen is non reinforced concrete beam and five specimens are waste tires reinforced concrete beam. For each of the five specimen, the waste tire reinforcement is tensioned with 0%, 17%, 25%, 40% and 60% strain before casting the concrete. The flexural strength tests are conducted after 28 days concrete ages under three point loadings. After the test, we observe that the waste tire reinforcement together with pre-stress contribute significantly on the flexural strength of the concrete beam as predicted. Finally, to support the test, finite element analysis is performed as well in this work and compared with the experimental results.
Adsorption of Textile Dye by Activated Carbon Made from Rice Straw and Oil Palm Midrib
Authors: Firdaus Mochamad Lutfi , Krisnanto Noli , Alwi Wiwit , Muhammad Ronald , Serunting Muhamad Allan
Published: June 2017

Synthetic dye wastewater from textile industries is characterized by strong color, high temperature, variable pH and high chemical oxygen demand (COD). The strong color of wastewater affects aesthetic and water transparency of water bodies. The metabolites could be toxic to aquatic biota and posing a potential hazard to human health. Eventually, it will cause severe environmental problems. One of method that has advantages in term of simplicity to remove synthetic dyes is adsorption. Environmentally benign and low-cost materials to make adsorbent are biomass-based materials. Two different biomaterial wastes of rice straw and oil palm midrib were used in this study to develop activated carbon adsorbents. These adsorbents were applied for the removal of Naphtol AS-G dye in aqueous solution. The effects of solution pH, adsorbents masses and contact time on dye adsorption were evaluated based on batch experiments. Removal of dye can be achieved within 60 minutes at a wide pH range starting from 4 to 8. At lower pH, synthetic dye removal was decreasing probably due to protonation of adsorbent’s active sites. The adsorption isotherms based on Langmuir and Freundlich models were analyzed. The isotherms analysis indicated that the adsorption by rice straw and oil palm can be represented by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm model, respectively. Adsorption isotherms of Naphtol AS-G onto activated carbon are favorable with high adsorption capacity for both biomaterials. The mechanisms of color removal by activated carbon involved chemical and physical adsorption, in accordance with both the Langmuir and Freundlich models. The calculated maximum dye adsorption capacities onto rice straw and oil palm midrib activated carbon were 55.86 and 69.44 mg/g, respectively. Adsorption using biomass-based activated carbon offers a good technique for textile wastewater treatment as it could remove up to 95% of the color intensity besides reducing other pollutants such as COD, nitrate and phosphate.
Implementing a Reference Measurement System for C-Peptide: Successes and Lessons Learned
Authors: Little Randie R , Wielgosz Robert I , Josephs Ralf , Kinumi Tomoya , Takatsu Akiko , Li Hongmei , Stein Daniel , Burns Chris
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Assessment of endogenous insulin secretion by measuring C-peptide concentrations is widely accepted. Recent studies have shown that preservation of even small amounts of endogenous C-peptide production in patients with type 1 diabetes reduces risks for diabetic complications. Harmonization of C-peptide results will facilitate comparison of data from different research studies and later among clinical laboratory results at different sites using different assay methods.

CONTENT

This review provides an overview of the general process of harmonization and standardization and the challenges encountered with implementing a reference measurement system for C-peptide.

Efforts to harmonize C-peptide results are described, including those by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases–led C-peptide Standardization Committee in the US, activities in Japan, efforts by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control in the UK, as well as activities led by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures and the National Metrology Institute in China. A traceability scheme is proposed along with the next steps for implementation. Suggestions are made for better collaboration to optimize the harmonization process for other measurands.
Syntactic diacrisis in a rigid and a free word order language
Authors: Zabrocki Tadeusz
Published: June 2017

The paper is concerned with some syntactic consequences of Polish being a synthetic language with a rich system of case inflections and English lacking morphological case (or having a residual form of it). It will be argued that this typologically significant grammatical difference provides an essential premise in a unified explanation for the clustering of a number of syntactic differences between the two languages.The argument is based on a set of functionally motivated constraints on grammatical representations. The constraints are proposed as a part of a theory of “syntactic diacrisis” and are claimed to result from a) the general nature of language as a semiotic system, and b) the specific properties of the human parsing mechanism.The paper consists of three sections. The first contains a brief discussion of the role and place of functional explanations in syntax and introduces the concept of a “parser’s requirement on structure” (PROS).The second section introduces and justifies some basic principles of “syntactic diacrisis”.The third focuses on several syntactic differences between English and Polish and shows how they could all be explained by reference to the interplay of the functional (theory of diacrisis)and grammatical factors.
Economic policy uncertainty and household inflation uncertainty
Authors: Binder Carola Conces
Published: June 2017

How does uncertainty about economic policy translate into uncertainty about macroeconomic outcomes, in particular inflation? New measures of consumer inflation uncertainty are compared to the economic and monetary policy uncertainty indices of [Baker, S., N. Bloom, and S. Davis. 2016. “Measuring Economic Policy Uncertainty.”
Real Freedom for All Revisited – Normative Justifications of Basic Income
Authors: Henderson Troy
Published: June 2017

This paper contributes to debates regarding the normative justification of basic income (BI) via a critical reevaluation of Philippe Van Parijs’ ‘real-libertarian’ theory. Van Parijs’ work constitutes the most ambitious attempt within the literature to ground a justification of BI within a systematic normative framework. In this paper I argue that key elements of his framework should form part of any progressive justification of BI. Specifically, his linking of the principle of ‘real freedom for all’ with the policy mechanism of the ‘highest sustainable basic income.’ I take issue with Van Parijs’ treatment of compensation for unequal internal endowments based on the criterion of ‘undominated diversity’ and I reject the ‘external resources’ approach to justifying the funding of a substantial BI, including Van Parijs’ ‘jobs as assets’ argument. I introduce the concept of ‘total social productivity’ as a means of understanding the production and reproduction of society in a manner that anchors the justification of BI in a commitment to a ‘deep form of social reciprocity.’ Finally, I suggest that BI be framed as a ‘pragmatic-utopian reform.’
Assessing multiple muscle activation during squat movements with different loading conditions – an EMG study
Authors: Pourmoghaddam Amir , Dettmer Marius , Malanka Stefany J.K. , Veverka Mitchell , O’Connor Daniel P. , Paloski William H. , Layne Charles S.
Published: June 2017

Surface electromyography (EMG) is a valuable tool in clinical diagnostics and research related to human neuromotor control. Non-linear analysis of EMG data can help with detection of subtle changes of control due to changes of external or internal constraints during motor tasks. However, non-linear analysis is complex and results may be difficult to interpret, particularly in clinical environments. We developed a non-linear analysis tool (SYNERGOS) that evaluates multiple muscle activation (MMA) features and provides a single value for description of activation characteristics. To investigate the responsiveness of SYNERGOS to kinetic changes during cyclic movements, 13 healthy young adults performed squat movements under different loading conditions (100%–120% of body weight). We processed EMG data to generate SYNERGOS indices and used two-way repeated measures ANOVA to determine changes of MMA in response to loading conditions during movement. SYNERGOS values were significantly different for each loading condition. We concluded that the algorithm is sensitive to kinetic changes during cyclic movements, which may have implications for applications in a variety of experimental and diagnostic settings.
Analytical and clinical performance of thyroglobulin autoantibody assays in thyroid cancer follow-up
Authors: Katrangi Waddah , Grebe Stephan K.G. , Algeciras-Schimnich Alicia
Published: June 2017

Background:

While thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgAb) can result in false low serum thyroglobulin (Tg) immunoassay (IA) measurements, they might also be indicators of disease persistence/recurrence. Hence, accurate TgAb measurement, in addition to Tg quantification, is crucial for thyroid cancer monitoring. We compared the analytical and clinical performance of four commonly used TgAb IAs.

Methods:

We measured Tg by mass spectrometry (Tg-MS) and by four pairs of Tg and TgAb IAs (Beckman, Roche, Siemens, Thermo) in 576 samples. Limit of quantitation (LOQ) and manufacturers’ upper reference interval cut-off (URI) were used for comparisons. Clinical performance was assessed by receiving operator characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.

Results:

Quantitative and qualitative agreement between TgAb-IAs was moderate with R

Conclusions:

TgAb-IAs show significant qualitative and quantitative differences. For 2 of the 4 TgAb-IAs, using the LOQ improves the detection of interfering TgAbs. All assays showed suboptimal clinical performance when used as surrogate markers of disease, with modest improvements when Tg and TgAb were combined.
Beiging of white adipose tissue as a therapeutic strategy for weight loss in humans
Authors: Thyagarajan Baskaran , Foster Michelle T.
Published: June 2017

An imbalance between energy intake and expenditure leads to obesity. Adiposity associated with obesity progressively causes inflammation, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease. Excessive dietary intake of fat results in its accumulation and storage in the white adipose tissue (WAT), whereas energy expenditure by fat utilization and oxidation predominately occurs in the brown adipose tissue (BAT). Recently, the presence of a third type of fat, referred to as beige or brite (brown in white), has been recognized in certain kinds of WAT depots. It has been suggested that WAT can undergo the process of browning in response to stimuli that induce and enhance the expression of thermogenes characteristic of those typically associated with brown fat. The resultant beige or brite cells enhance energy expenditure by reducing lipids stored within adipose tissue. This has created significant excitement towards the development of a promising strategy to induce browning/beiging in WAT to combat the growing epidemic of obesity. This review systematically describes differential locations and functions of WAT and BAT, mechanisms of beiging of WAT and a concise analysis of drug molecules and natural products that activate the browning phenomenon in vitro and in vivo. This review also discusses potential approaches for targeting WAT with compounds for site-specific beiging induction. Overall, there are numerous mechanisms that govern browning of WAT. There are a variety of newly identified targets whereby potential molecules can promote beiging of WAT and thereby combat obesity.
Non-Isothermal Effectiveness Factor for Catalytic Particles with Non-Fickian Diffusion
Authors: Hernandez Aguirre Alberto , Morales Cabrera Miguel A. , Morales Zarate Epifanio , Rivera Victor M , Puebla Hector , Hernandez Martinez Eliseo
Published: June 2017

In this note, the effects of the non-Fickian diffusion on the prediction of effectiveness factor in non-isothermal porous catalytic slab considering external transport resistances are studied. A Green’s function formulation is used to solve the fractional diffusion-reaction model assuming non-Fickian diffusion to describe the internal mass transport in the porous catalytic particle. Evaluation of the effectiveness factor considering linear and nonlinear reaction rates was developed under isothermal and non-isothermal conditions. In both cases, numerical simulations show the relation existent between the anomalous diffusion with the performance of the catalytic slabs.
Divisio Textusand the Interpretive Logic Of Thomas Aquinas’Lectura Ad Ephesios
Authors: Covington Eric
Published: June 2017

Henri de Lubac has proclaimed that medieval exegetical texts contain a “whole mental universe” within their pages. While full of promise, de Lubac’s statement also points to the problem of how modern readers may profitably engage the unfamiliar mental universe of such texts. The distinctive scholastic practice of structuring a composition bydivisio textuscan function as a helpful guide not only for understanding the structure of medieval texts but also for understanding the interpretive logic employed by medieval commentators. By focusing on Thomas Aquinas’lectura ad Ephesios, this paper demonstrates how thedivisio textuscan help identify important aspects of a commentator’s interpretive logic. The article then turns to examine Aquinas’ interpretation of predestination in Eph 1:5–6a to demonstrate the significance of thedivisio textusfor understanding medieval exegetical and interpretive decisions at both the macro- and micro-level. The article concludes that thedivisio textuscan be a helpful tool for uncovering the “mental universe” contained within medieval exegetical texts.
The Prophetess of Endor: Reception of 1 Samuel 28 in Nineteenth Century Mormon History
Authors: Blythe Christopher James
Published: June 2017

This article documents one strain of Mormon thought concerning the Woman of Endor narrative in 1 Samuel 28, in which the woman was interpreted as a prophetess enabled to raise the dead through her spiritual gifts. Church leaders eventually condemned this narrative because of its similarities with Spiritualist exegesis and American Christianity’s use of the narrative to condemn Spiritualism as necromancy. Through establishing an orthodox reading of the passage, leaders strengthened the boundaries separating the two faiths – boundaries that many Spiritualists had argued were at best blurry and overlapping.
Elie Wiesel and the Biblical Archetypes of the Contemporary Middle East
Authors: Tollerton David
Published: June 2017

This article focuses on two newspaper advertisements written by Holocaust survivor and author Elie Wiesel, which were published shortly before his death in 2016. These controversial advertisements, appearing in the US and the UK, addressed recent tensions in the Middle East, referencing the books of 2Kings and Esther. The article explores Wiesel’s relationship to contemporary politics, traditions of biblical interpretation, and ideas of sacred temporality. I argue that these advertisements present a vivid case study of the potential difficulties posed by framing contemporary conflicts via biblical archetypes. Specifically, I suggest that they challenge us to develop an awareness of instances in which biblical reception can mythologize suffering by subsuming novel and complex events into premeditated narratives.
Toward a Legal Perspective on Crisis Information Management: Legal Values and Privacy-Sensitive Information at Odds?
Authors: Biersteker Erwin , Ferguson Julie E. , Beersma Bianca , Groenewegen Peter
Published: June 2017

Recently, crisis response organizations are adopting a networked communication structure, as a means to connect different sources of crisis information and enable a more effective crisis response. However, this change has introduced legal complications that so far remain unaddressed, for instance regarding the exchange of privacy-sensitive information aimed at rendering a coherent picture of the crisis. This paper examines how information managers interpret legislation during crises. We analyze our results by drawing on Radbruch’s tripartite taxonomy, showing that information managers oscillate between the values of certainty of law and purposiveness in regards to legislation, while the value of justice remains remarkably absent in their interpretation. By introducing a legal perspective on crisis information management we provide an important contribution to the crisis coordination debate.
Comparison of Tanner staging of HIV-infected and uninfected girls at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Iloh Ogochukwu N. , Iloh Kenechukwu K. , Ubesie Agozie C. , Emodi Ifeoma J. , Ikefuna Anthony N. , Ibeziako Ngozi S.
Published: June 2017

Background:

A number of factors influence sexual maturation in adolescents, including chronic illnesses like HIV. Marshall and Tanner devised a method of classifying the adolescent based on the level of sexual maturation into five stages. This study compared the Tanner staging of HIV-infected and uninfected girls.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study of 100 HIV-infected girls aged 8–18 years and 100 uninfected counterparts matched for age and social class. Using standard photographs as a guide, stages of sexual maturation were determined according to the method proposed by Marshall and Tanner. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 20. p-values <0.05 were regarded as significant.

Results:

The study participants were aged 8–17 years. Fifty-five subjects compared to 39 controls were still in pre-pubertal breast developmental stages while 45 subjects (45%) compared to 61 controls (61%) have commenced breast development (p=0.024). Similarly, 52 subjects compared to 31 controls were in the pre-pubertal pubic hair developmental stages, while 48 subjects (48%) compared to 69 controls (69%) had commenced pubic hair development (p=0.003).

Conclusions:

Perinatal HIV infection affected the onset of pubic hair and breast development but did not significantly affect the attainment of sexual maturation.
Hounded Women: The IPV Protocol and the Autonomy of Abuse Victims
Authors: Gauthier-Chung Maud Faïle
Published: June 2017

In the early 90s, many jurisdictions adopted a special protocol in an effort to stop and punish intimate partner abuse. This article focuses on the particular form this policy has taken in the New York County jurisdiction, as it is a source of deep disagreement among feminists. In this article, I explore this disagreement in order to demonstrate two things. First, that like many other contentious issues, this controversy revolves around the question of how oppressed individuals’ autonomy should be conceived. Second, that a structural understanding of autonomy, such as the one pioneered by the philosopher Joseph Raz, can be of great use to resolve disagreements on this protocol. I offer an interpretation of his account which enables us to acknowledge the agency of ‘hounded women’ while legitimizing interventions aimed at eradicating the coercion they are victims of.
Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Opuntia ficus indica seed oil fractions and their bioactive compounds identification
Authors: R’bia Olfa , Chkioua Chaker , Hellal Raoudha , Herchi Wahid , Smiti Samira Aschi
Published: June 2017

Aim

The two Opuntia ficus indica seed oil fractions (glyceridic and unsaponifiable) were compared to their biological activities and then assessed with their bioactive compounds.

Methods

Based on the inhibition concentration at 50 percent (IC50) values, the antioxidant activity of the two fractions was compared with three different tests. The antibacterial activity was assessed by the agar disk diffusion assay against five human pathogenic bacteria. Moreover, the main fatty acids composition and unsaponifiable compounds in Opuntia ficus indica seed oil were identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometryand (GC/MS) and NP-HPLC.

Results

Results showed that antioxidant and antibacterial activities considerably varied depending on the fraction. In fact, unsaponifiable fraction has higher biological activities than the glyceridic ones. The unsaponifiable fraction has stronger effects of scavenging 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and it is more efficient against bleaching of β-carotene than the saponifiable extract, unlike the experimental results of 2,2′-azino-bis3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6- sulfonic acid (ABTS) scavenging test. Furthermore, the unsaponifiable fraction was more efficient against all pathogenic strains specially Escherichia coli. The major fatty acids identified were: linoleic (61.42%), oleic (20.55%) and palmitic acids (11.88%). Such a difference in biological capacities between the two fractions can be explained by the high content of some bioactive compounds in the unsaponifiable fraction. Low level of squalene was present in the seed oil. But high levels of terpenic alcohols (3169 mg/kg) and of coenzyme Q9 (75.3 mg/kg) were detected in the Opuntia seed oil.

Conclusion

Informations provided through this work are important for the valorization and use of this cactus vegetable oil in cosmetic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
Predictors of Functional Change in a Skilled Nursing Facility Population
Authors: Gustavson Allison M. , Falvey Jason R. , Forster Jeri E. , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer E.
Published: June 2017

Background and Purpose:

Inability to obtain sufficient gains in function during a skilled nursing facility (SNF) stay impacts patients' functional trajectories and susceptibility to adverse events. The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of functional change in patients temporarily residing in an SNF following hospitalization.

Methods:

One hundred forty patients admitted to a single SNF from the hospital who had both evaluation and discharge measures of physical function documented were included. Data from the Minimum Data Set 3.0 and electronic medical record were extracted to record clinical and demographic characteristics. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was administered by rehabilitation therapists at evaluation and discharge. The SPPB consists of balance tests, gait speed, and a timed 5-time sit-to-stand test.

Results and Discussion:

The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) Screening Tool for Depression was the only significant predictor of change in gait speed over an SNF stay. Eighty-seven percent of patients achieved a clinically meaningful change in the SPPB of 1 point or greater from evaluation to discharge, with 78% demonstrating a clinically meaningful change of 0.1 m/s or greater on gait speed. However, 69% of patients demonstrated SPPB scores of 6 points or less and 57% ambulated less than 0.65 m/s at the time of discharge from the SNF, which indicates severe disability.

Conclusions:

Poor physical function following an SNF stay places older adult at significant risk for adverse events including rehospitalization, future disability, and institutionalization. Understanding the predictors of functional change from evaluation to discharge may direct efforts toward developing innovative and effective interventions to improve function trajectories for older adults following an acute hospitalization.
NETO1 Guides Development of Glutamatergic Connectivity in the Hippocampus by Regulating Axonal Kainate Receptors
Authors: Orav Ester , Atanasova Tsvetomira , Shintyapina Alexandra , Kesaf Sebnem , Kokko Michela , Partanen Juha , Taira Tomi , Lauri Sari E.
Published: June 2017

Kainate-type glutamate receptors (KARs) are highly expressed in the developing brain, where they are tonically activated to modulate synaptic transmission, network excitability and synaptogenesis. NETO proteins are auxiliary subunits that regulate biophysical properties of KARs; however, their functions in the immature brain are not known. Here, we show that NETO1 guides the development of the rodent hippocampal CA3-CA1 circuitry via regulating axonal KARs. NETO deficiency reduced axonal targeting of most KAR subunits in hippocampal neurons in a subtype independent manner. As an interesting exception, axonal delivery of GluK1c was strongly and selectively impaired in theNeto1−/−, but notNeto2−/−, neurons. Correspondingly, the presynaptic GluK1 KAR activity that tonically inhibits glutamate release at immature CA3-CA1 synapses was completely lost in the absence of NETO1 but not NETO2. The deficit in axonal KARs atNeto1−/−neurons resulted in impaired synaptogenesis and perturbed synchronization of CA3 and CA1 neuronal populations during developmentin vitro. Both theseNeto1−/−phenotypes were fully rescued by overexpression of GluK1c, emphasizing the role of NETO1/KAR complex in development of efferent connectivity. Together, our data uncover a novel role for NETO1 in regulation of axonal KARs and identify its physiological significance in development of the CA3-CA1 circuit.
Concurrent intrathyroidal thymus and parathyroid in a patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma: a challenging diagnosis
Authors: Velimezis Georgios , Ioannidis Argyrios , Apostolakis Sotirios , Chorti Maria , Avramidis Charalampos , Papachristou Evripidis
Published: June 2017

During embryogenesis, the thymus and inferior parathyroid glands develop from the third pharyngeal pouch and migrate to their definite position. During this process, several anatomic variations may arise, with the thyroid being one of the most common sites of ectopic implantation for both organs. Here, we report the case of a young female patient, who underwent total thyroidectomy for papillary carcinoma of the thyroid. The patient’s history was remarkable for disorders of the genitourinary system. Histologic examination revealed the presence of well-differentiated intrathyroidal thymic tissue, containing an inferior parathyroid gland. While each individual entity has been well documented, this is one of the few reports in which concurrent presentation is reported. Given the fact that both the thymus and the inferior parathyroid are derivatives of the same embryonic structure (i.e. the third pharyngeal pouch), it is speculated that the present condition resulted from a failure in separation and migration during organogenesis.

Learning points:

Intrathyroidal thymus and parathyroid are commonly found individually, but rarely concurrently.

It is a benign and asymptomatic condition.

Differential diagnosis during routine workup with imaging modalities can be challenging.
The Accuracy and Bias of Single-Step Genomic Prediction for Populations Under Selection
Authors: Hsu Wan-Ling , Garrick Dorian J , Fernando Rohan L
Published: June 2017

In single-step analyses, missing genotypes are explicitly or implicitly imputed, and this requires centering the observed genotypes using the means of the unselected founders. If genotypes are only available for selected individuals, centering on the unselected founder mean is not straightforward. Here, computer simulation is used to study an alternative analysis that does not require centering genotypes but fits the mean μg of unselected individuals as a fixed effect. Starting with observed diplotypes from 721 cattle, a five-generation population was simulated with sire selection to produce 40,000 individuals with phenotypes, of which the 1000 sires had genotypes. The next generation of 8000 genotyped individuals was used for validation. Evaluations were undertaken with (J) or without (N) μg when marker covariates were not centered; and with (JC) or without (C) μg when all observed and imputed marker covariates were centered. Centering did not influence accuracy of genomic prediction, but fitting μg did. Accuracies were improved when the panel comprised only quantitative trait loci (QTL); models JC and J had accuracies of 99.4%, whereas models C and N had accuracies of 90.2%. When only markers were in the panel, the 4 models had accuracies of 80.4%. In panels that included QTL, fitting μg in the model improved accuracy, but had little impact when the panel contained only markers. In populations undergoing selection, fitting μg in the model is recommended to avoid bias and reduction in prediction accuracy due to selection.
Acquired Resistance to Corticotropin Therapy in Nephrotic Syndrome: Role of De Novo Neutralizing Antibody
Authors: Wang Pei , Zhang Yan , Wang Yu , Brem Andrew S. , Liu Zhangsuo , Gong Rujun
Published: June 2017

There is increasing evidence supporting the use of corticotropin as an alternative treatment of refractory proteinuric glomerulopathies. The efficacy of short-acting corticotropin, however, remains unknown and was tested here in an adolescent with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome caused by minimal change disease. After developing Cushing syndrome and recently being afflicted with severe cellulitis, the patient was weaned off all immunosuppressants, including corticosteroids. This resulted in a relapse of generalized anasarca, associated with massive proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia. Subsequently, mono-therapy with short-acting animal-derived natural corticotropin was initiated and resulted in a rapid response, marked by substantial diuresis, reduction in body weight, and partial remission of proteinuria. Ten days later, the patient developed mild skin rash and subcutaneous nodules at injection sites. A relapse followed despite doubling the dose of corticotropin, consistent with delayed-onset resistance to treatment. Immunoblot-based antibody assay revealed de novo formation of antibodies in the patient’s serum that were reactive to the natural corticotropin. In cultured melanoma cells known to express abundant melanocortin receptors, addition of the patient’s serum strikingly mitigated dendritogenesis and cell signaling triggered by natural corticotropin, denoting neutralizing properties of the newly formed antibodies. Collectively, short-acting natural corticotropin seems effective in steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. De novo formation of neutralizing antibodies is likely responsible for acquired resistance to corticotropin therapy. The proof of concept protocols established in this study to examine the anticorticotropin neutralizing antibodies may aid in determining the cause of resistance to corticotropin therapy in future studies.
„Hogy minden beteg megértse!” – Az egészségműveltség (health literacy) mérése Magyarországon
Authors: Papp-Zipernovszky Orsolya , Náfrádi Lilla , Schulz Peter J. , Csabai Márta
Published: June 2017

Inroduction: The efficiency of healing is determined by the ability of the patients to comprehend and to apply properly the information provided by the doctors. This ability is influenced by age, intelligence and social background, but above all by health literacy. Aim: The aim of the present study was to translate and adapt the Hungarian version of the Short-Test of Functional Health Literacy, which is a performance based measure and the perception-based Chew screening questions for health literacy in Hungary. Method: The sample consisted of 302 people, and it was closely representative for the Hungarian population. Results: The reliability of the reading part of the Short-Test of Functional Health Literacy was excellent, and it was also acceptable regarding the Chew screening questions, but it showed low internal consistency concerning the numeracy part of the Short-Test of Functional Health Literacy. Based on the Short-Test of Functional Health Literacy reading scores, participants were categorized into three groups: 8% had inadequate, 6% marginal and 86% adequate health literacy levels. Regarding participants without a chronic illness tended to possess higher health literacy levels based on all the three measurments. Conclusions: The availability of these measures of health literacy in Hungary can play a crucial role in doctor-patient communication as well as health promotion, that can contribute to develop health literacy policies leading to reduced health care costs in the future. Orv. Hetil., 2016, 157(23), 905–915.