bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Identity and Positions of Relief Fragments in Museums and Private Collections
Authors: Sharawi Galal , Harpur Yvonne
Published: January 2018

This continues a series of papers devoted to the identification of Old Kingdom tomb fragments in museum collections. All the reliefs discussed here are shown (by dimensions, stylistic features, and other criteria) to come from Saqqâra: Brooklyn 35.640 (joining Cairo JE 40049) from tomb 920; Cincinnati 1971.28 (joining Cleveland 30.736) from the tomb of Nj-‘nḫ-nswt; Cairo T.27.6.16.1–2 and JE 57179 (joining Cairo CG 1554) from D 52, the tomb of Snnw-‘nḫ; Otago E.75.5 (joining Cairo CG 1540) from Mrrw-krj Mttw; Dresden 750 and Aberdeen 1553 and 1555 from D 49, tomb of Hnmw-ḥtp.
A Recipe for Offering Loaves
Authors: Wilson Hilary
Published: January 2018

A reappraisal of the baking scene in the Theban tomb of Rekhmire. The principal ingredient in the making of offering loaves in this scene, previously classed as a grain or bean, has recently been identified as the tubers of Cyperus esculentus. The processes in the preparation of the loaves or cakes are described and interpreted with reference to experimental use of this as the staple ingredient in recipes.
A New Look at the Adoption Papyrus
Authors: Cruz-Uribe Eugene
Published: January 2018

Since the publication of the Adoption Papyrus (P. Ashmolean Museum 1945.96), commentators have mistakenly understood that Nebnefer, the husband of Rennefer, was deceased when the text was written. The author argues that Nebnefer was alive for all the proceedings. This eliminates the untenable earlier assumption that a deceased individual was an active party to a contract. A new translation of the text with some commentary is given.
Merib-Ptah Psamtek-Meryptah (Surnom no. 39)
Authors: Malek Jaromir
Published: January 2018

Publication of an ushebti with additional prosopographical information concerning no. 39 of H, De Meulenaere's Le Surnom egyptien ala Basse Epoque.
Techniques of Decoration in the Hall of Barques in the Temple of Sethos I at Abydos
Authors: Baines John , Jaeschke Richard , Henderson Julian
Published: January 2018

In 1983 and 1988 the Egypt Exploration Society's Abydos Mission recorded the paintings and reliefs in the Hall of Barques of the temple of Sethos I at Abydos. The paintings of Sethos I were executed in 9 main stages, from initial design to the final painting of details. Many corrections can be identified, both small ones in paint in the drafts and larger changes where the surface was recovered in plaster. Before the figures were painted, the figure area was covered with a fine plaster wash, to which black outlines were applied while it was still damp. There was a chemical reaction between black paint and plaster and little black is preserved. The black pigment contains an iron-rich pigment which is poorly crystalline (Appendix 2). Sunk relief carving within the outlines of the paintings was partly carried out under Ramesses II. Different levels of skill and divisions of labour in carving can be identified; problematic hieroglyphs were left to a later hand. Both relief and painting are characterized by speed of execution. The painting in the south-east corner of the hall was cleaned and recopied in 1988; the techniques used are described in Appendix 1.
Some Remarks on the Trial of Mose
Authors: Allam S.
Published: January 2018

This inscription recounts the history of a lawsuit about the ownership of some fields inherited by various members of the family to which Mose belonged. At a certain point there appears a man called Khay who is apparently not related. According to Gardiner's interpretation, this Khay produced forged documents before the highest law-court, presided over by the Vizier, so that the Vizier pronounced in favour of Khay on the basis of forgeries. These forgeries came from the capital Piramesses, where the official registers of landed property were kept. Khay must then have succeeded in tampering with these registers through the complicity of officials. Upon close analysis of the inscription, however, the passages in question turn out to have been wholly misunderstood: Khay had in fact a legitimate title-deed favourable to his claim.
A Theban Tomb and Its Tenants
Authors: Dodson Aidan , Janssen Jac. J.
Published: January 2018

In 1857, a tomb was discovered by A. H. Rhind on the Sheikh ‘Abd el-Qurna hill, containing rifled mummies, coffins and fourteen labels inscribed in hieratic. The latter, now in Edinburgh, together with two further examples bought on the antiquities market, but now lost, named a series of Eighteenth Dynasty princesses. The labels are to be dated to the Twenty-first Dynasty, the deposit being assessed as a communal reburial made in Year 27 of Psusennes I.
The Transcription of the Royal Name Pepy
Authors: Fischer Henry G.
Published: January 2018

The reading pjpj, favoured by Ranke and Edel, might be applied to some writings of the name as readily as ppy, but other writings definitely confirm the second reading.
Interpreting the Story of the Shipwrecked Sailor
Authors: Baines John
Published: January 2018

The story of the Shipwrecked Sailor is a complex work of written literature that is based partly on esoteric knowledge. Its superficial presentation looks to folk and oral models in style, situation, anonymity, and treatment of character, making play with traditional and proverbial wisdom. It is not allegorical in any simple sense. The conception of the seventy-four forms of the sun god is encapsulated within the folk/oral treatment, while the deviant wisdom that offerings to the gods are pointless is relativized by being put forward by a god. The core narrative of the end of things is a myth that is linked to moralizing on a modest, domestic scale; this pairing has parallels in religious texts. All these meanings are organized within a cyclical form which exploits first-person narration for ironical effect. The text is not didactic in a straightforward way, but has the unifying theme of experience and how it is confronted.
Notes on the Exterior Construction Signs from Tutankhamun's Shrines
Authors: Bell Martha R.
Published: January 2018

Hieroglyphic signs on Tutankhamun's shrines are linked to construction techniques rather than tomb orientation. Structural parts and dimensions of the shrines are described.
Hogs and Hygiene
Authors: Miller Robert L.
Published: January 2018

Physiological and ecological aspects of pig raising can shed light on the value of pigs in the subsistence economy of the workmen's villages at Deir el-Medina and Amarna. Recycling waste to feed pigs meant that a more efficient use could be made of available food sources, including scraps which would not sustain a larger human, with the option of butchering the animal to recoup the energy resources invested in it.
Smash Not Sieve: Heqanakhte II, rt. 30
Authors: Shore A. F.
Published: January 2018

Demotic lexicography and Semitic parallels suggest that nqrw m nqr in Heqanakhte II, rt. 30 should be translated ‘smash (the clods) with a smashing’, ‘harrow with a harrowing’, and not ‘sieve with the sieve’.
New-Kingdom pyramidia
Authors: Malek Jaromir
Published: January 2018

Publication of three monuments: two pyramidia, (1) of Teti, Lector-priest of Senisonb (mother of Tuthmosis 1), early Eighteenth Dynasty, in Oxford, Ashmolean Mus. 1896-1908 E. 3926; (2) of Huy, Servant in the Place of Truth, late Eighteenth or Nineteenth Dynasty, formerly in d'Athanasi, Lee and Amherst collections; and a triangular stela(?) of Bekenamun, New Kingdom, formerly in d'Athanasi and Lee collections.
A Late Period Block Statuette from Saft El-Henna
Authors: Leahy Anthony
Published: January 2018

Publication of a limestone block statuette, formerly in the MacGregor collection and now in the Wellcome Museum, University of Swansea. The statuette, which can be dated to the mid-seventh century bc, was dedicated by a priest Aba, son of Ramose. Priestly titles link the family to Saft el-Henna.
The Names Psammetichus and Takheta
Authors: Ray J. D.
Published: January 2018

The name Psammetichus is discussed in the light of Greek, Carian, and Near-Eastern evidence, and an original vocalization proposed. Takheta, name of the mother of Psammetichus III, suggests an Anatolian connection; this is best seen in the light of Pharaoh Amasis' foreign policy. The story of Ladike of Cyrene, recorded by Herodotus, is relevant here.
Black Pigment from the Hall of Barques in the Temple of Sethos I at Abydos: Additional Comments
Authors: Baines John , Henderson Julian , Middleton Andrew
Published: January 2018

An amplification and a correction to the presentation of the black pigment in JEA 75 (1989), 13-30. The material is probably not as unusual as was claimed there.
The Relative Clause and the Verb in Middle Egyptian
Authors: Collier Mark
Published: January 2018

It is argued that the proposed reanalysis of the circumstantial sdm(.f)/sdm. n(.f) as the unconverted/non-transposed forms of the simple suffix conjugation, i.e. as verbal verb-forms, permits a satisfactory account of the occurrence of these forms in ‘virtual’ relative clauses. Within this framework, a unified account of the relative clause in Middle Egyptian, covering both the ‘real’ relative clause (better termed the ‘converted relative clause’) and the ‘virtual’ relative clause (better termed the ‘unconverted relative clause’), is presented. The majority of the properties of these clauses are derived from the interaction of general properties of clause form, unbounded dependency and pronoun omission in Middle Egyptian.
The transliteration of the name of Osiris
Authors: Muchiki Yoshi
Published: January 2018

An acknowledgement that the author's reading of the name of Osiris as 3s-ir, in JEA 76 (1990), 191–4, was anticipated by D. Lorton, VA 1 (1985), 124 f., n. 27 c.
Does the Mesenchymal Stem Cell Source Influence Smooth Muscle Regeneration in Tissue-Engineered Urinary Bladders?
Authors: Pokrywczynska Marta , Jundzill Arkadiusz , Warda Karolina , Buchholz Lukasz , Rasmus Marta , Adamowicz Jan , Bodnar Magdalena , Marszalek Andrzej , Helmin-Basa Anna , Michalkiewicz Jacek , Gagat Maciej , Grzanka Alina , Frontczak-Baniewicz Malgorzata , Gastecka Agata Magdalena , Kloskowski Tomasz , Nowacki Maciej , Ricordi Camillo , Drewa Tomasz
Published: January 2018

A variety of tissue engineering techniques utilizing different cells and biomaterials are currently being explored to construct urinary bladder walls de novo, but so far no approach is clearly superior. The aim of this study was to determine whether mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from different sources, (bone marrow [BM-MSCs] and adipose tissue [ADSCs]), differ in their potential to regenerate smooth muscles in tissue-engineered urinary bladders and to determine an optimal number of MSCs for urinary bladder smooth muscle regeneration. Forty-eight rats underwent hemicystectomy and bladder augmentation with approximately 0.8 cm2 graft. In the first and second groups, urinary bladders were reconstructed with small intestinal submucosa (SIS) seeded with 10 × 106 or 4 × 106 ADSCs/cm2, respectively. In the third and fourth groups, urinary bladders were augmented with SIS seeded with 10 × 106 or 4 × 106 BM-MSCs/cm2, respectively. In the fifth group, urinary bladders were augmented with SIS without cells. The sixth group (control) was left intact. Smooth muscle regeneration was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and histological examinations. Histologically, there were no significant differences between urinary bladders augmented with ADSCs and BM-MSCs, but there was a marked increase in smooth muscle formation in bladders augmented with grafts seeded with MSCs in higher density (10 × 106/cm2) compared to lower density (4 × 106/cm2). Molecular analysis revealed that bladders reconstructed with ADSC-seeded grafts expressed higher levels of smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, caldesmon, and vinculin. Bladders augmented with unseeded SIS were fibrotic and devoid of smooth muscles. ADSCs and BM-MSCs have comparable smooth muscle regenerative potential, but the number of MSCs used for graft preparation significantly affects the smooth muscle content in tissue-engineered urinary bladders.
Transplantation of Human Neural Progenitor Cells Reveals Structural and Functional Improvements in the Spastic Han-Wistar Rat Model of Ataxia
Authors: Nuryyev Ruslan L. , Uhlendorf Toni L. , Tierney Wesley , Zatikyan Suren , Kopyov Oleg , Kopyov Alex , Ochoa Jessica , Trigt William Van , Malone Cindy S. , Cohen Randy W.
Published: January 2018

The use of regenerative medicine to treat nervous system disorders like ataxia has been proposed to either replace or support degenerating neurons. In this study, we assessed the ability of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) to repair and restore the function of dying neurons within the spastic Han-Wistar rat (sHW), a model of ataxia. The sHW rat suffers from neurodegeneration of specific neurons, including cerebellar Purkinje cells and hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cells leading to the observed symptoms of forelimb tremor, hind-leg rigidity, gait abnormality, motor incoordination, and a shortened life span. To alleviate the symptoms of neurodegeneration and to replace or augment dying neurons, neuronal human progenitor cells were implanted into the sHW rats. At 30 d of age, male sHW mutant rats underwent subcutaneous implantation of an Alzet osmotic pump that infused cyclosporine (15 mg/kg/d) used to suppress the rat’s immune system. At 40 d, sHW rats received bilateral injections (500,000 cells in 5 µL media) of live hNPCs, dead hNPCs, live human embryonic kidney cells, or growth media either into the cerebellar cortex or into the hippocampus. To monitor results, motor activity scores (open-field testing) and weights of the animals were recorded weekly. The sHW rats that received hNPC transplantation into the cerebellum, at 60 d of age, displayed significantly higher motor activity scores and sustained greater weights and longevities than control-treated sHW rats or any hippocampal treatment group. In addition, cerebellar histology revealed that the transplanted hNPCs displayed signs of migration and signs of neuronal development in the degenerated Purkinje cell layer. This study revealed that implanted human progenitor cells reduced the ataxic symptoms in the sHW rat, identifying a future clinical use of these progenitor cells against ataxia and associated neurodegenerative diseases.
Factors Affecting Survival in Children With Pericardial Effusion After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Jaing Tang-Her , Chen Shih-Hsiang , Wen Yu-Chuan , Chang Tsung-Yen , Tsai Dai-Yun , Chung Hung-Tao , Tsay Pei-Kwei
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors, outcome, and clinical significance of pericardial effusion (PE). We retrospectively analyzed outcomes of 272 pediatric patients undergoing their first hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from 1998 to 2016. In total, 15% (3/20) and 5.9% (15/252) of autologous and allogeneic HSCT recipients, respectively, were identified with PE. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of PE between the 2 groups. The mean age at transplantation was 11.12 ± 5.41 y. Eighteen patients developed PE at 4.13 ± 4.44 mo after HSCT. PE was confirmed by echocardiogram in all patients. Three patients presented with severe PE with cardiac tamponade and required urgent pericardiocentesis. Overall survival (OS) rates for patients who developed PE were 83.3% and 38.9% at 100 d and 3 y, respectively, after HSCT. Death was not directly attributable to PE in patients who died in the first year after HSCT. Multivariable analysis identified the following variables to be associated with OS: PE (relative risk[RR]: 3.70; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.89-7.23; P < 0.001), active disease at HSCT (RR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.02-2.49; P < 0.001), and thalassemia (RR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.45-0.84; P < 0.001). PE is, thus, a debilitating and significant complication of pediatric HSCT. Therefore, prospective studies are required for better determination of the etiology and optimal method of PE treatment after HSCT.
Quantifying the Effects of Different Neutral Proteases on Human Islet Integrity
Authors: Brandhorst Heide , Johnson Paul R. V. , Korsgren Olle , Brandhorst Daniel
Published: January 2018

Efficient islet release from the pancreas requires the combination of collagenase, neutral protease (cNP), or thermolysin (TL). Recently, it has been shown that clostripain (CP) may also contribute to efficient islet release from the human pancreas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of these proteases on human islet integrity in a prospective approach. Islets were isolated from the pancreas of 10 brain-dead human organ donors. Purified islets were precultured for 3 to 4 d at 37 °C to ensure that preparations were cleared of predamaged islets, and only integral islets were subjected to 90 min of incubation at 37 °C in Hank’s balanced salt solution supplemented with cNP, TL, or CP. The protease concentrations were calculated for a pancreas of 100 g trimmed weight utilizing 120 dimethyl-casein units of cNP, 70,000 caseinase units of TL, or 200 benzoyl-l-arginine-ethyl-ester units of CP (1×). These activities were then increased both 5× and 10×. After subsequent 24-h culture in enzyme-free culture medium, treated islets were assessed and normalized to sham-treated controls. Compared with controls and CP, islet yield was significantly reduced by using the 5× activity of cNP and TL, inducing also fragmentation and DNA release. Viability significantly decreased not until adding the 1× activity of cNP, 5× activity of TL, or 10× activity of CP. Although mitochondrial function was significantly lowered by 1× cNP and 5× TL, CP did not affect mitochondria at any concentration. cNP- and TL-incubated islets significantly lost intracellular insulin already at 1× activity, while the 10× activity of CP had to be added to observe a similar effect. cNP and TL have a similar toxic potency regarding islet integrity. CP also induces adverse effects on islets, but the toxic threshold is generally higher. We hypothesize that CP can serve as supplementary protease to minimize cNP or TL activity for efficient pancreas digestion.
Taking a Risk: Explaining the Use of Complex Debt Finance by the Chicago Public Schools
Authors: Kass Amanda , Luby Martin J. , Weber Rachel
Published: January 2018

In the decade leading up to the global crisis of 2007-2008, local governments in the United States used increasingly complex financial structures to underwrite major capital projects. These structures offered potentially lower borrowing costs while also carrying greater financial risk, and in most cases, the bond structures imploded when the crisis hit. Why did some local governments gravitate toward this part of the risk spectrum while others did not? This article develops several explanations for local government risk-taking with a case study of the Chicago Public Schools’ use of auction rate securities and interest rate swaps. We argue that the school district’s exceptional use of these instruments was due to administrators’ familiarity with these instruments, Chicago’s long history of using creative techniques to defer tax increases and service cuts, and lack of knowledge about the extent to which investment banks were propping up these securities markets.
Changes in microbial growth, carotenoids, and water-soluble tannin content of ripe persimmon beverage after ultra-high pressure treatment
Authors: Kim Gi-Chang , Kim Sang-Bum , Kim Jin-Sook , Kim Kyung-Mi , Choi Song-Yi
Published: January 2018

To avoid the loss of carotenoids and increasing the tannin content associated with pasteurization, we tested ultra-high pressure treatment of ripe persimmon beverage. We compared microbial counts (aerobic bacteria, coliforms, and mould), carotenoid contents, and water-soluble tannin contents between heat- and ultra-high pressure-treated beverages. No microbial contamination was detected after pasteurization or ultra-high pressure treatment at 400 MPa for more than 5 min. Ultra-high pressure treatment significantly prevented the reduction in carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, lycopene), with losses of 3.9–28.7%, as compared to the 65% loss after pasteurization. Moreover, ultra-high pressure did not induce an increase in water-soluble tannin, which causes astringent taste, whereas water-soluble tannins were increased three times by heat treatment. In conclusion, ultra-high pressure showed the same microbial control effect as pasteurization, while it did not cause carotenoid degeneration and increased tannin and thus, it better maintained the quality of ripe persimmon beverage.
Noteworthy Literature published in 2017 for Cardiac Critical Care
Authors: Ivascu Natalia S. , Shen Liang , Noguera Edward , Flynn Brigid C.
Published: January 2018

In 2017, many high-impact articles appeared in the literature. This is the third edition of an annual review of articles related to postoperative cardiac critical care that may affect the cardiac anesthesiologist. This year explores vasopressor and inotropic support, timing of renal replacement therapy, management of postoperative respiratory insufficiency, and targeted temperature therapy.
Fuzzy Profiles
Authors: Gabriel Allison S. , Campbell Joanna Tochman , Djurdjevic Emilija , Johnson Russell E. , Rosen Christopher C.
Published: January 2018

Person-centered approaches to organizational scholarship can provide critical insights into how sets of related constructs uniquely combine to predict outcomes. Within micro topics, scholars have begun to embrace the use of latent profile analysis (LPA), identifying constellations of constructs related to organizational commitment, turnover intentions, emotional labor, recovery, and well-being, to name a few. Conversely, macro scholars have utilized fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to examine numerous phenomena, such as acquisitions and business strategies, as configurations of explanatory conditions associated with firm-level outcomes. What remains unclear, however, is the extent to which these two approaches deliver similar versus unique insights when applied to the same topic. In this paper, we offer an overview of the ways these two methods converge and diverge, and provide an empirical demonstration by applying both LPA and fsQCA to examine a multidimensional personality construct—core self-evaluations (CSE)—in relation to job satisfaction. In so doing, we offer guidance for scholars who are either choosing between these two methods, or are seeking to use the two methods in a complementary, theory-building manner.
Experimental investigation of the squeal characteristics in railway disc brakes
Authors: Tang B , Mo JL , Zhang X , Zhang Q , Zhu MH , Zhou ZR
Published: January 2018

In this study, a bespoke small-scale brake dynamometer was developed to simulate the braking conditions of a railway disc brake system. Braking squeal experiments were performed with this brake dynamometer at different braking pressures and disc rotation speeds, and the influence of these braking parameters on the generation and characterization of the squeal noise was evaluated and discussed. The obtained results show that both the braking pressure and the disc rotation speed have a significant influence on the generation and evolution of the squeal noise. Higher rotation speeds are found to result in higher sound pressures and more complicated squeal noise spectra, except at a particular braking pressure, for which the highest sound pressure level is found at various disc rotation speeds. This phenomenon indicates that a combination of specific braking parameters may lead to a strong instability of the brake system and consequently to squeal noise. Additionally, a possible correlation of the squeal noise characteristics with the pressure distribution at the braking interface was found and discussed.
Semiparametric regression for discrete time-to-event data
Authors: Berger Moritz , Schmid Matthias
Published: January 2018

Abstract:

Time-to-event models are a popular tool to analyse data where the outcome variable is the time to the occurrence of a specific event of interest. Here, we focus on the analysis of time-to-event outcomes that are either intrinsically discrete or grouped versions of continuous event times. In the literature, there exists a variety of regression methods for such data. This tutorial provides an introduction to how these models can be applied using open source statistical software. In particular, we consider semiparametric extensions comprising the use of smooth nonlinear functions and tree-based methods. All methods are illustrated by data on the duration of unemployment of US citizens.
Placing the Ball in Congress’ Court: Supreme Court Requests for Congressional Action
Authors: Rice Douglas
Published: January 2018

The U.S. Supreme Court’s invitations for congressional action have been the subject of extensive interest but with limited empirical study. As a result, despite the obvious political implications of the cross-institutional policy and rule construction interactions, little is understood of the factors precipitating such requests or their efficacy. In this article, I propose a legal development hypothesis. Specifically, I argue invitations are useful for the majority seeking to secure their policy preferences in the law, as the invitation serves to strategically frame subsequent debate at the Court through identifying Congress as the venue for any future reversal of the majority’s policy preferences. Utilizing an original data set of Supreme Court requests for congressional action, I find strong and consistent evidence to support the legal development hypothesis. By inviting congressional action, justices structure in their favor future debates at the Court over policy intervention.
Neurotransmitter Pathway Genes in Cognitive Decline During Aging: Evidence for GNG4 and KCNQ2 Genes
Authors: Bonham Luke W. , Evans Daniel S. , Liu Yongmei , Cummings Steven R. , Yaffe Kristine , Yokoyama Jennifer S.
Published: January 2018

Background/Rationale:

Experimental studies support the role of neurotransmitter genes in dementia risk, but human studies utilizing single variants in candidate genes have had limited success.

Methods:

We used the gene-based testing program Versatile Gene-based Association Study to assess whether aggregate variation across 6 neurotransmitter pathways influences risk of cognitive decline in 8159 cognitively normal elderly (≥65 years old) adults from 3 community-based cohorts.

Results:

Common genetic variation in GNG4 and KCNQ2 was associated with cognitive decline. In human brain tissue data sets, both GNG4 and KCNQ2 show higher expression in hippocampus relative to other brain regions; GNG4 expression decreases with advancing age. Both GNG4 and KCNQ2 show highest expression in fetal astrocytes.

Conclusion:

Genetic variation analyses and gene expression data suggest that GNG4 and KCNQ2 may be associated with cognitive decline in normal aging. Gene-based testing of neurotransmitter pathways may confirm and reveal novel risk genes in future studies of healthy cognitive aging.
Comparative Evaluations of Randomly Selected Four Point-of-Care Glucometer Devices in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Wolde Mistire , Tarekegn Getahun , Kebede Tedla
Published: January 2018

Background:

Point-of-care glucometer (PoCG) devices play a significant role in self-monitoring of the blood sugar level, particularly in the follow-up of high blood sugar therapeutic response. The aim of this study was to evaluate blood glucose test results performed with four randomly selected glucometers on diabetes and control subjects versus standard wet chemistry (hexokinase) methods in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Method:

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on randomly selected 200 study participants (100 participants with diabetes and 100 healthy controls). Four randomly selected PoCG devices (CareSens N, DIAVUE Prudential, On Call Extra, i-QARE DS-W) were evaluated against hexokinase method and ISO 15197:2003 and ISO 15197:2013 standards.

Results:

The minimum and maximum blood sugar values were recorded by CareSens N (21 mg/dl) and hexokinase method (498.8 mg/dl), respectively. The mean sugar values of all PoCG devices except On Call Extra showed significant differences compared with the reference hexokinase method. Meanwhile, all four PoCG devices had strong positive relationship (>80%) with the reference method (hexokinase). On the other hand, none of the four PoCG devices fulfilled the minimum accuracy measurement set by ISO 15197:2003 and ISO 15197:2013 standards. In addition, the linear regression analysis revealed that all four selected PoCG overestimated the glucose concentrations.

Conclusions:

The overall evaluation of the selected four PoCG measurements were poorly correlated with standard reference method. Therefore, before introducing PoCG devices to the market, there should be a standardized evaluation platform for validation. Further similar large-scale studies on other PoCG devices also need to be undertaken.
The chronic ischaemic cardiovascular disease ESC Pilot Registry: Results of the six-month follow-up
Authors: Komajda Michel , Kerneis Mathieu , Tavazzi Luigi , Balanescu Serban , Cosentino Francesco , Cremonesi Alberto , Ferrari Roberto , Kownator Serge , Szwed Hanna , Mintale Iveta , Olivari Zoran , Rittger Harald , Shlyakhto Evgeny V , Slapikas Rimvydas , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Valgimigli Marco , Van Belle Eric , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Majda Wojciech , Laroche Cécile , Maggioni Aldo P
Published: January 2018

Aim

Chronic ischaemic cardiovascular disease (CICD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The CICD Pilot Registry enrolled 2420 patients across 10 European Society of Cardiology countries prospectively to describe characteristics, management strategies and clinical outcomes in this setting. We report here the six-month outcomes.

Methods and results

From the overall population, 2203 patients were analysed at six months. Fifty-eight patients (2.6%) died after inclusion; 522 patients (23.7%) experienced all-cause hospitalisation or death. The rate of prescription of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, beta-blockers and aspirin was mildly decreased at six months (all P < 0.02). Patients who experienced all-cause hospitalisation or death were older, more often had a history of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, of chronic kidney disease, peripheral revascularisation and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than those without events. Independent predictors of all-cause mortality/hospitalisation were age (hazard ratio (HR) 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–1.27) per 10 years, and a history of previous peripheral revascularisation (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.03–2.03), chronic kidney disease (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.0–1.68) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.06–1.91, all P < 0.05). We observed a higher rate of events in eastern, western and northern countries compared to southern countries and in cohort 1.

Conclusion

In this contemporary European registry of CICD patients, the rate of severe clinical outcomes at six months was high and was influenced by age, heart rate and comorbidities. The medical management of this condition remains suboptimal, emphasising the need for larger registries with long-term follow-up. Ad-hoc programmes aimed at implementing guidelines adherence and follow-up procedures are necessary, in order to improve quality of care and patient outcomes.
The relationship between physical inactivity and mental wellbeing: Findings from a gamification-based community-wide physical activity intervention
Authors: Harris Marc Ashley
Published: January 2018

Mental ill health accounts for 13 per cent of total global disease burden with predictions that depression alone will be the leading cause of disease burden globally by 2030. Poor mental health is consistently associated with deprivation, low income, unemployment, poor education, poorer physical health and increased health-risk behaviour. A plethora of research has examined the relationship between physical activity and mental wellbeing; however, the influence of community-wide gamification-based physical activity interventions on mental wellbeing, to the authors’ knowledge, is yet to be explored. In view of this paucity of attention, the current study examined the relationship between physical activity and mental wellbeing pre/post a community-wide, gamification-based intervention. The findings revealed that increases in mental wellbeing were significantly greater for the least active prior to the intervention, and a strong, positive correlation between increase in physical activity and increase in mental wellbeing was observed.
What are the effective solutions to control the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in the environment? A systematic review protocol
Authors: Goulas Anaïs , Livoreil Barbara , Grall Nathalie , Benoit Pierre , Couderc-Obert Céline , Dagot Christophe , Patureau Dominique , Petit Fabienne , Laouénan Cédric , Andremont Antoine
Published: January 2018

Background

Antibiotic treatments are indispensable for human and animal health. However, the heavy usage of antibiotics has led to the emergence of resistance. Antibiotic residues, antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes are introduced into the terrestrial and aquatic environments via application of human and animal wastes. The emergence and the spread of antibiotic resistance in environmental reservoirs (i.e., soil, water, wildlife) threatens the efficacy of all antibiotics. Therefore, there is an urgent need to determine what effective solutions exist to minimize the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in the environment. The aim of this article is to describe the protocol of a systematic review of the literature considering these solutions.

Methods

The primary questions addressed by the systematic review protocol are: how antibiotic resistance in the environment is impacted by changes in practice concerning (i) the use of antibiotics, (ii) the management of wastes or (iii) the management of the natural compartment. Bibliographic searches will be made in eleven publication databases as well as in specialist databases. Grey literature will also be searched. Articles will be screened regarding the inclusion and exclusion criteria at title, abstract and full-text levels. Studies where a causal relationship between the intervention and the outcome is made will be retained. After critical appraisal, data from the selected articles will be extracted and saved in a database validated by the expert panel. Study quality will be assessed by critical appraisal. Data will be compiled into a qualitative synthesis. If data availability and quality allow it, a quantitative synthesis will be carried out.
Maternity Blues
Authors: Kennerley Helen , Gath Dennis
Published: January 2018

The studies reported had two purposes: (a) to identify psychological symptoms commonly experienced by mothers in the first few days after childbirth; (b) to use psychometric methods to develop a questionnaire for detecting and measuring these symptoms. A draft 49-item questionnaire was derived by asking 100 newly delivered mothers to volunteer suitable items. The number of items was systematically reduced to 28 while testing the questionnaire on two further samples of newly delivered mothers (n = 100 and n = 50). Cluster analysis of the 28 items yielded seven clusters, the robustness of which was established in a further sample of 87 newly delivered mothers. The validity of the 28-item questionnaire was established. The questionnaire was quick and easy to administer, suitable for repeated administration on consecutive days, and well accepted by mothers.
Maternity Blues
Authors: Iles Susan , Gath Dennis , Kennerley Helen
Published: January 2018

A new scale for the detection and assessment of maternity blues was completed by 56 women daily for ten days after elective gynaecological surgery. When their responses were compared with those of 87 post-natal women, they differed significantly in frequencies of different symptoms at different times. The findings suggest that post-natal mood changes (‘maternity blues’) are characteristic of the puerperium and not simply non-specific reactions to physical and emotional stress.
Adverse Interaction Between Cimetidine and Chlorpromazine in Two Cases of Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Byrne Alan , O'Shea Brian
Published: January 2018

The treatment of two chlorpromazine-medicated chronic schizophrenics with cimetidine resulted in excessive sedation, which necessitated a reduction in chlorpromazine dosage. Eventual discontinuation of cimetidine therapy led to a return of schizophrenic symptoms, which responded to an increase in chlorpromazine dosage to previous levels.
Group Psychotherapy
Authors: Hobbs Michael
Published: January 2018

Since Bloch (1981) last wrote about the group psychotherapies for this journal, there have been significant developments in practice and in the available literature. There is now a wider range of introductory texts, and a few works have extended the theory of group dynamics and the therapeutic action of groups. There is evidence of a growing awareness of the applications of group psychotherapy in the treatment of a range of patients.
The Problems of Sleep
Authors: Idzikowski Christopher
Published: January 2018

Handbook of Sleep Disorders (Neurological Disease and Therapy Series 6) ($198, 920 pp., 1990) is published by Marcel Dekker, New York. It is essentially an American book (with 24 out of 36 chapters originating from North America) with a distinctly American point of view. The book has been edited by Professor M. J. Thorpy, the Chairman of the Diagnostic Classification Steering Committee of the American Sleep Disorders Association. Professor Thorpy is also Director of the well known Sleep-Disorders Center, Montefiore Medical Center, New York.
The Disease Concept of Alcoholism
Authors: Jellinek E. M. , Hore Brian D.
Published: January 2018

Concern over those individuals who drink alcohol to excess goes back many centuries, this concern being directed at the effect alcohol has on the individual and on society. Levine (1978) pointed out that the idea of alcoholism as a progressive disease with the key symptom of ‘loss of control’ did not simply start with the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous or the publication of Jellinek's monograph. Such a concept is, in fact, at least 200 years old.
Peer Commentaries on ‘An Evaluation of Community-based Psychiatric Care for People with Treated Long-Term Mental Illness’
Authors: Pullen Ian , Kendrick Tony
Published: January 2018

The following two commentaries were invited by the editor, and add to a series of reviews and comments that are published together with particular papers.
Computers in psychiatry
Authors: Baggaley Martin , Sinclair Mike
Published: January 2018

‘Computers in psychiatry’ is not an easy topic to recommend reading material for. It can be difficult to find information that is up to date. Most textbooks are dated by the time they are published and this is particularly true in an area that is developing rapidly, such as computers and information technology (IT). Therefore, many of the better information sources are to be found in Journal and magazine articles. There is up-to-date information available electronically on the Internet; although this is fine for the initiated it can be difficult for interested novice to access.
Improvement in Overall Survival With Carfilzomib, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone in Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Siegel David S. , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Ludwig Heinz , Facon Thierry , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Jakubowiak Andrzej , San-Miguel Jesus , Obreja Mihaela , Blaedel Julie , Stewart A. Keith
Published: January 2018

Purpose

In the ASPIRE study of carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (KRd) versus lenalidomide plus dexamethasone (Rd) in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, progression-free survival was significantly improved in the carfilzomib group (hazard ratio, 0.69; two-sided P < .001). This prespecified analysis reports final overall survival (OS) data and updated safety results.

Patients and Methods

Adults with relapsed multiple myeloma (one to three prior lines of therapy) were eligible and randomly assigned at a one-to-one ratio to receive KRd or Rd in 28-day cycles until withdrawal of consent, disease progression, or occurrence of unacceptable toxicity. After 18 cycles, all patients received Rd only. Progression-free survival was the primary end point; OS was a key secondary end point. OS was compared between treatment arms using a stratified log-rank test.

Results

Median OS was 48.3 months (95% CI, 42.4 to 52.8 months) for KRd versus 40.4 months (95% CI, 33.6 to 44.4 months) for Rd (hazard ratio, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.95; one-sided P = .0045). In patients receiving one prior line of therapy, median OS was 11.4 months longer for KRd versus Rd; it was 6.5 months longer for KRd versus Rd among patients receiving ≥ two prior lines of therapy. Rates of treatment discontinuation because of adverse events (AEs) were 19.9% (KRd) and 21.5% (Rd). Grade ≥ 3 AE rates were 87.0% (KRd) and 83.3% (Rd). Selected grade ≥ 3 AEs of interest (grouped terms; KRd v Rd) included acute renal failure (3.8% v 3.3%), cardiac failure (4.3% v 2.1%), ischemic heart disease (3.8% v 2.3%), hypertension (6.4% v 2.3%), hematopoietic thrombocytopenia (20.2% v 14.9%), and peripheral neuropathy (2.8% v 3.1%).

Conclusion

KRd demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in the risk of death versus Rd, improving survival by 7.9 months. The KRd efficacy advantage is most pronounced at first relapse.
Cholangiocarcinoma With FGFR Genetic Aberrations: A Unique Clinical Phenotype
Authors: Jain Apurva , Borad Mitesh J. , Kelley Robin Kate , Wang Ying , Abdel-Wahab Reham , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Baggerly Keith A. , Kaseb Ahmed Omar , Al-shamsi Humaid O. , Ahn Daniel H. , DeLeon Thomas , Bocobo Andrea Grace , Bekaii-Saab Tanios , Shroff Rachna T. , Javle Milind
Published: January 2018

Purpose

FGFR genetic aberrations (GAs) occur in an estimated 10% to 16% of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs). The natural history of CCA with FGFR GAs, the prognostic role of coexisting GAs, and the outcome with FGFR-targeted inhibitors are unknown.

Patients and Methods

Patients with CCA with FGFR GAs were identified using next-generation sequencing or fluorescence in situ hybridization from four tertiary cancer centers and compared with FGFR wild-type counterparts. Data reviewed included demographic, treatment, overall survival (OS), and GA data. Fisher’s exact test, Kaplan-Meier plots, and log-rank tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Three hundred seventy-seven patients with CCA were identified, and 95 had FGFR GAs. FGFR2 GA was most common (n = 74, with 63 fusions) and seen in intrahepatic CCA. In patients with CCA, FGFR GAs occurred more frequently in younger patients (≤ 40 years; 20%) compared with older patients (> 40 years; 6.7%; P < .001), presented at an earlier stage (TNM stage I/II v III/IV: 35.8% v 22%, respectively; P = .001), and were associated with a longer OS compared with patients without FGFR GAs (37 v 20 months, respectively; P < .001). This difference remained significant after excluding 36 patients treated with FGFR inhibitors. There was no OS difference ( P = .60) between CCA with FGFR2 fusions (n = 63) versus other FGFR GAs (n = 29). Patients with FGFR GAs had a better OS with FGFR-targeted therapy compared with standard treatment ( P = .01). BAP1 mutation was the most common coexisting mutation without prognostic impact, whereas TP53 ( P = .04) and CDKN2A/B ( P = .04) were correlated with a shorter OS.

Conclusion

CCA with FGFR GAs represents a unique subtype occurring in younger patients with an indolent disease course. FGFR-targeted therapy may have a positive impact on OS in this subgroup.
New Modalities for the Administration of Inhaled Nitric Oxide in Intensive Care Units After Cardiac Surgery or for Neonatal Indications: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Gaudard Philippe , Barbanti Claudio , Rozec Bertrand , Mauriat Philippe , M’rini Mimoun , Cambonie Gilles , Liet Jean Michel , Girard Claude , Leger Pierre Louis , Assaf Ziad , Damas Pierre , Loron Gauthier , Lecourt Laurent , Amour Julien , Pouard Philippe
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND:

Nitric oxide (NO) has a well-known efficacy in pulmonary hypertension (PH), with wide use for 20 years in many countries. The objective of this study was to describe the current use of NO in real life and the gap with the guidelines.

METHODS:

This is a multicenter, prospective, observational study on inhaled NO administered through an integrated delivery and monitoring device and indicated for PH according to the market authorizations. The characteristics of NO therapy and ventilation modes were observed. Concomitant pulmonary vasodilator treatments, safety data, and outcome were also collected. Quantitative data are expressed as median (25th, 75th percentile).

RESULTS:

Over 1 year, 236 patients were included from 14 equipped and trained centers: 117 adults and 81 children with PH associated with cardiac surgery and 38 neonates with persistent PH of the newborn. Inhaled NO was initiated before intensive care unit (ICU) admission in 57%, 12.7%, and 38.9% with an initial dose of 10 (10, 15) ppm, 20 (18, 20) ppm, and 17 (11, 20) ppm, and a median duration of administration of 3.9 (1.9, 6.1) days, 3.8 (1.8, 6.8) days, and 3.1 (1.0, 5.7) days, respectively, for the adult population, pediatric cardiac group, and newborns. The treatment was performed using administration synchronized to the mechanical ventilation. The dose was gradually decreased before withdrawal in 86% of the cases according to the usual procedure of each center. Adverse events included rebound effect for 3.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.9%–8.5%) of adults, 1.2% (95% CI, 0.0%–6.7%) of children, and 2.6% (95% CI, 0.1%–13.8%) of neonates and methemoglobinemia exceeded 2.5% for 5 of 62 monitored patients. Other pulmonary vasodilators were associated with NO in 23% of adults, 95% of children, and 23.7% of neonates. ICU stay was respectively 10 (6, 22) days, 7.5 (5.5, 15) days, and 9 (8, 15) days and ICU mortality was 22.2%, 6.2%, and 7.9% for adults, children, and neonates, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study confirms the safety of NO therapy in the 3 populations with a low rate of rebound effect. Gradual withdrawal of NO combined with pulmonary vasodilators are current practices in this population. The use of last-generation NO devices allowed good compliance with recommendations.
Explicit interaction information from WikiPathways in RDF facilitates drug discovery in the Open PHACTS Discovery Platform
Authors: Miller Ryan A. , Woollard Peter , Willighagen Egon L. , Digles Daniela , Kutmon Martina , Loizou Antonis , Waagmeester Andra , Senger Stefan , Evelo Chris T.
Published: January 2018

Open PHACTS is a pre-competitive project to answer scientific questions developed recently by the pharmaceutical industry. Having high quality biological interaction information in the Open PHACTS Discovery Platform is needed to answer multiple pathway related questions. To address this, updated WikiPathways data has been added to the platform. This data includes information about biological interactions, such as stimulation and inhibition. The platform's Application Programming Interface (API) was extended with appropriate calls to reference these interactions. These new methods of the Open PHACTS API are available now.