bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum: An Evaluation of Virulence Theories
Authors: Xu Liangsheng , Li Guoqing , Jiang Daohong , Chen Weidong
Published: June 2018

Oxalic acid production in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum has long been associated with virulence. Research involving UV-induced, genetically undefined mutants that concomitantly lost oxalate accumulation, sclerotial formation, and pathogenicity supported the conclusion that oxalate is an essential pathogenicity determinant of S. sclerotiorum. However, recent investigations showed that genetically defined mutants that lost oxalic acid production but accumulated fumaric acid could cause disease on many plants and substantiated the conclusion that acidic pH, not oxalic acid per se, is the necessary condition for disease development. Critical evaluation of available evidence showed that the UV-induced mutants harbored previously unrecognized confounding genetic defects in saprophytic growth and pH responsiveness, warranting reevaluation of the conclusions about virulence based on the UV-induced mutants. Furthermore, analyses of the evidence suggested a hypothesis for the existence of an unrecognized regulator responsive to acidic pH. Identifying the unknown pH regulator would offer a new avenue for investigating pH sensing/regulation in S. sclerotiorum and novel targets for intervention in disease control strategies.
The Discovery of the Antiviral Resistance GeneMx: A Story of Great Ideas, Great Failures, and Some Success
Authors: Haller Otto , Arnheiter Heinz , Pavlovic Jovan , Staeheli Peter
Published: June 2018

The discovery of the Mx gene–dependent, innate resistance of mice against influenza virus was a matter of pure chance. Although the subsequent analysis of this antiviral resistance was guided by straightforward logic, it nevertheless led us into many blind alleys and was full of surprising turns and twists. Unexpectedly, this research resulted in the identification of one of the first interferon-stimulated genes and provided a new view of interferon action. It also showed that in many species, MX proteins have activities against a broad range of viruses. To this day, Mx research continues to flourish and to provide insights into the never-ending battle between viruses and their hosts.
An Anti–CLL-1 Antibody–Drug Conjugate for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Zheng Bing , Yu Shang-Fan , del Rosario Geoffrey , Leong Steven R. , Lee Genee Y. , Vij Rajesh , Chiu Cecilia , Liang Wei-Ching , Wu Yan , Chalouni Cecile , Sadowsky Jack , Clark Vanessa , Hendricks Angela , Poon Kirsten Achilles , Chu Wayne , Pillow Thomas , Schutten Melissa M. , Flygare John , Polson Andrew G.
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

The treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has not significantly changed in 40 years. Cytarabine- and anthracycline-based chemotherapy induction regimens (7 + 3) remain the standard of care, and most patients have poor long-term survival. The reapproval of Mylotarg, an anti-CD33–calicheamicin antibody–drug conjugate (ADC), has demonstrated ADCs as a clinically validated option to enhance the effectiveness of induction therapy. We are interested in developing a next-generation ADC for AML to improve upon the initial success of Mylotarg.

Experimental Design:

The expression pattern of CLL-1 and its hematopoietic potential were investigated. A novel anti–CLL-1-ADC, with a highly potent pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) dimer conjugated through a self-immolative disulfide linker, was developed. The efficacy and safety profiles of this ADC were evaluated in mouse xenograft models and in cynomolgus monkeys.

Results:

We demonstrate that CLL-1 shares similar prevalence and trafficking properties that make CD33 an excellent ADC target for AML, but lacks expression on hematopoietic stem cells that hampers current CD33-targeted ADCs. Our anti–CLL-1-ADC is highly effective at depleting tumor cells in AML xenograft models and lacks target independent toxicities at doses that depleted target monocytes and neutrophils in cynomolgus monkeys.

Conclusions:

Collectively, our data suggest that an anti–CLL-1-ADC has the potential to become an effective and safer treatment for AML in humans, by reducing and allowing for faster recovery from initial cytopenias than the current generation of ADCs for AML.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of Flex 19G Needles versus 22G Needles for Endobronchial Ultrasonography in Suspected Lung Cancer
Authors: Dooms Christophe , Vander Borght Sara , Yserbyt Jonas , Testelmans Dries , Wauters Els , Nackaerts Kristiaan , Vansteenkiste Johan , Verbeken Eric , Weynand Birgit
Published: June 2018

Background: A flexible 19-gauge (Flex 19G) needle has been developed for endobronchial ultrasonography. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate quantitative and qualitative specimen characteristics of Flex 19G in a randomized controlled setting for patients with suspected lung cancer. Methods: We undertook a single-center, randomized, controlled trial. A computer-generated randomization assigned all enrolled patients 1: 1 to undergo endobronchial ultrasonography using a Flex 19G or a 22-gauge (22G) needle for lymph node tissue sampling. Pathologists were blinded to the group assignment. The primary end point was histological tissue core procurement. The secondary end points were diagnostic yield, specimen bloodiness and overall quality, tissue surface area and performance for next-generation sequencing (NGS), and procedure-related complications. Results: Between June 2016 and February 2017, we randomly allocated a total of 78 patients: 39 patients to Flex 19G and 39 patients to 22G. No superiority in tissue core procurement was observed for Flex 19G compared to 22G (67 vs. 72%, p = 0.81). No significant difference was observed in diagnostic yield and overall specimen quality, but transbronchial needle aspiration specimens by Flex 19G were bloodier and had a larger tissue surface area. NGS was successful for clinically relevant genes in 96% and for all 26 genes tested in 81% of the samples. There was no difference in clinically relevant complications. Conclusions: No superiority is observed for Flex 19G in histological tissue core procurement rate. The Flex 19G needle could be considered when a larger tissue surface is of special interest.
Temporal and Vertical Variation in Microbial Community Composition in Response to Physicochemical Characteristics in a Water Column of Highly Eutrophied Jinhae Bay, South Korea
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Lim Jae-Hyun , Park Junhyung , Kim Il-Nam
Published: June 2018

Microbial communities play an essential role in marine biogeochemical cycles. Physical and biogeochemical changes in Jinhae Bay, the most anthropogenically eutrophied bay on the coasts of South Korea, are well described, but less is known about the associated changes in microbial communities. Temporal and vertical variation in microbial communities at three depths (surface, middle, and bottom) at seven time points (June to December) at the J1 sampling site were investigated on the MiSeq platform based on the 16S rRNA gene. Overall, the microbial community was dominated by Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Bacteroidetes from June to November, whereas Firmicutes were dominant in December, especially in the middle and bottom layers. The results indicate that the microbial community composition strongly varied with temporal changes in the physicochemical water properties. Moreover, the community composition differed markedly between the surface and middle layers and the bottom layer in the summer, when the water column was strongly stratified and bottom water hypoxia developed. A redundancy analysis suggested a significant correlation between physicochemical variables (i.e., temperature, salinity, and oxygen concentration) and microbial community composition. This study indicates that temporal changes in water conditions and eutrophication-induced hypoxia effectively shape the structure of the microbial community.
Testicular Function and Bone in Young Men with Severe Childhood-Onset Obesity
Authors: Laakso Saila , Viljakainen Heli , Lipsanen-Nyman Marita , Turpeinen Ursula , Ivaska Kaisa K. , Anand-Ivell Ravinder , Ivell Richard , Mäkitie Outi
Published: June 2018

Background: Previous studies suggest increased risk for hypoandrogenism and fractures in men with obesity. We aimed to describe the effects of severe childhood-onset obesity on the cross talk between metabolic state, testes, and skeleton at late puberty. Methods: A cohort of adolescent and young adult males with severe childhood-onset obesity (n = 21, mean age 18.5 years) and an age-matched control group were assessed for testicular hormones and X-ray absorptiometry-derived bone mass. Results: Current median body mass indexes for the obese and control subjects were 37.4 and 22.9. Severe early-onset obesity manifested with lower free testosterone (median [interquartile range] 244 [194–332] vs. 403 [293–463] pmol/L, p = 0.002). Lower insulin-like 3 (1.02 [0.82–1.23] vs. 1.22 [1.01–1.46] ng/mL, p = 0.045) and lower ratio of testosterone to luteinizing hormone (2.81 [1.96–3.98] vs. 4.10 [3.03–5.83] nmol/IU, p = 0.008) suggested disrupted Leydig cell function. The degree of current obesity inversely correlated with free testosterone (τ = –0.516, p = 0.003), which in turn correlated positively with bone area at all measurement sites in males with childhood-onset obesity. Conclusions: Severe childhood-onset obesity is associated with impaired Leydig cell function in young men and lower free testosterone may contribute to impaired skeletal characteristics.
The Influence of Rearing on Behavior, Brain Monoamines, and Gene Expression in Three-Spined Sticklebacks
Authors: Abbey-Lee Robin N. , Uhrig Emily J. , Zidar Josefina , Favati Anna , Almberg Johan , Dahlbom Josefin , Winberg Svante , Løvlie Hanne
Published: June 2018

The causes of individual variation in behavior are often not well understood, and potential underlying mechanisms include both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as early environmental, physiological, and genetic differences. In an exploratory laboratory study, we raised three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) under 4 different environmental conditions (simulated predator environment, complex environment, variable social environment, and control). We investigated how these manipulations related to behavior, brain physiology, and gene expression later in life, with focus on brain dopamine and serotonin levels, turnover rates, and gene expression. The different rearing environments influenced behavior and gene expression, but did not alter monoamine levels or metabolites. Specifically, compared to control fish, fish exposed to a simulated predator environment tended to be less aggressive, more exploratory, and more neophobic; and fish raised in both complex and variable social environments tended to be less neophobic. Exposure to a simulated predator environment tended to lower expression of dopamine receptor DRD4A, a complex environment increased expression of dopamine receptor DRD1B, while a variable social environment tended to increase serotonin receptor 5-HTR2B and serotonin transporter SLC6A4A expression. Despite both behavior and gene expression varying with early environment, there was no evidence that gene expression mediated the relationship between early environment and behavior. Our results confirm that environmental conditions early in life can affect phenotypic variation. However, the mechanistic pathway of the monoaminergic systems translating early environmental variation into observed behavioral responses was not detected.
Prognostic Models Associated with 6-Month Survival of Patients Admitted to Nursing Homes
Authors: Esteban-Burgos Ana A. , El Mansouri-Yachou Jamal , Muñoz-Ramirez Rafael , Hueso-Montoro Cesar , Garcia-Caro Maria P. , Montoya-Juarez Rafael
Published: June 2018

Background: Health status and the needs presented by people admitted to nursing homes make it necessary to contemplate aspects such as prognosis to offer quality palliative care. Objective: To compare the prognostic utility in nursing homes of two prognostic models of 6-month survival based on the Palliative Prognostic Index (PPI) or Palliative Performance Status (PPS) instruments and palliative needs indicators. Methods: A longitudinal prospective observational and analytical cohort study of survival and prognostic models in 88 patients with palliative needs (assessed by the NECPAL-ICO-CCOMS©) from an Andalusian (Spain) nursing home was performed. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were assessed, and 6 months later, in September 2017, survival was checked. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed using the R-Commander program (version 3.2.2). Results: Two models of the logistic regression analysis met the fit criteria. The two models combined the Surprise Question, the presence of persistent symptoms, and the clinical indicators of severity from the NECPAL tool, in addition to the Charlson Comorbidity Index, and varied only in terms of the latter variable, including the PPI in the first model and the PPS in the second. In the first model, significant associations were identified between 6-month survival and the persistent symptoms variable (OR = 7.78, p = 0.025, 95% CI = 1.45–60.92) and PPI (OR = 1.94, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 1.21). In the second model, 6-month survival was also significantly associated with the persistent symptoms variable (OR = 4.57, p = 0.045, 95% CI = 1.07–22.41) and the PPS (OR = 0.93, p = 0.001, 95% CI = 0.88–0.96). Conclusions: Prognostic models such as ours that include variables commonly included in clinical assessments can help nursing home professionals prioritize and ensure adequate mobilization of palliative care resources, which are very limited in these institutions.
Puerarin Attenuates Osteoarthritis via Upregulating AMP-Activated Protein Kinase/Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ Coactivator-1 Signaling Pathway in Osteoarthritis Rats
Authors: Wang Luyao , Shan Haojie , Wang Bin , Wang Nan , Zhou Zubin , Pan Chenhao , Wang Feng
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative joint disease and causes major pain and disability in adults. It has been reported that mitochondrial dysfunction in chondrocytes was associated with osteoarthritis. Puerarin has multiple effects including restoring mitochondrial function. In this study, the potential effects of puerarin on osteoarthritis and osteoarthritis associated mitochondrial dysfunctions were evaluated. Methods: Osteoarthritis rats were treated with puerarin and the severity of osteoarthritis and cartilage damages was evaluated. The mitochondrial biogenesis and functions were analyzed by measuring related proteins expression, mitochondrial DNA content, ATP production, and oxygen consumption. The dependence of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway on puerarin-regulated mitochondrial function was analyzed by applying AMPK inhibitor Compound C. Results: Puerarin treatment alleviated mechanical hyperalgesia and cartilage damage in osteoarthritis rats. Puerarin increased mitochondrial biogenesis and attenuated mitochondrial dysfunctions in osteoarthritis rats. AMPK inhibitor Compound C abolished puerarin’s effects. Conclusion: Puerarin attenuates osteoarthritis by upregulating the AMPK/proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator signaling pathway in osteoarthritis rats.
Ação coletiva intercultural: reflexões metodológicas de e com o Congresso do Movimento dos Povos (Colômbia)
Authors: Cortés German Andrés
Published: June 2018

O seguinte trabalho é o produto das reflexões feitas a partir do projeto "Congresso dos Povos, ação coletiva intercultural e subjetividades políticas emergentes", que inclui expressões e formas metodológicas participativas e ativas que envolvem atores rurais e urbanos pertencentes ao movimento social. CP como indígenas, camponeses e afro-colombianos. Essa reflexão é realizada no âmbito da última etapa do projeto, na qual a análise é estabelecida entre as categorias de ação coletiva, interculturalidade e subjetividades políticas, especialmente das dimensões da consciência política.
Puntadas sobre la experiencia de un centro de investigación-acción: más allá de una reflexión metodológica
Authors: Alarcón Tatiana Gutiérrez , Cruz Andrea Neira
Published: June 2018

Este artigo apresenta algumas questões que perpassam a configuração de um centro de pesquisa-ação no marco de uma Instituição Educacional Universitária Colombiana, a partir do qual se desenha uma reflexão epistemológica e metodológica sobre seu trabalho em permanente interação com os estudantes, organizações sociais e comunidade. É exposto como esse centro contribui com sua práxis, para construir perspectivas críticas ou dissidentes que estão no caminho da superação do locus da enunciação que assume um ponto de vista neutro e objetivo único da academia ocidental - no singular - para construir o conhecimento - no plural - sobre nossas realidades injustas e excludentes, desdobradas do projeto civilizador moderno/colonial, capitalista, eurocêntrico, patriarcal e racista; Nesse sentido, a pesquisa-ação é assumida como campo político e ético inevitável.
Descolonizar o conhecimento, conhecer para transformar
Authors: Oliveira Dennis
Published: June 2018

Texto de apresentação da Edição Especial sobre o 1º Colóquio Brasil-Colômbia de Metodologias Participativas em Cultura, Comunicação, Território e Movimentos Sociais.
Dissociated Oxygen Consumption and Carbon Dioxide Production in the Post–Cardiac Arrest Rat: A Novel Metabolic Phenotype
Authors: Shinozaki Koichiro , Becker Lance B. , Saeki Kota , Kim Junhwan , Yin Tai , Da Tong , Lampe Joshua W.
Published: June 2018

Background

The concept that resuscitation from cardiac arrest (
CA
) results in a metabolic injury is broadly accepted, yet patients never receive this diagnosis. We sought to find evidence of metabolic injuries after
CA
by measuring O
2
consumption and CO
2
production (
VCO
2
) in a rodent model. In addition, we tested the effect of inspired 100% O
2
on the metabolism.

Methods and Results

Rats were anesthetized and randomized into 3 groups: resuscitation from 10‐minute asphyxia with inhaled 100% O
2
(CA–fraction of inspired O
2
[FIO
2
] 1.0), with 30% O
2
(
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3), and sham with 30% O
2
(sham‐
FIO
2
0.3). Animals were resuscitated with manual cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The volume of extracted O
2
(
VO
2
) and
VCO
2
were measured for a 2‐hour period after resuscitation. The respiratory quotient (
RQ
) was
RQ
=
VCO
2
/
VO
2
.
VCO
2
was elevated in
CA
‐
FIO
2
1.0 and
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3 when compared with sham‐
FIO
2
0.3 in minutes 5 to 40 after resuscitation (
CA
‐
FIO
2
1.0: 16.7±2.2,
P
<0.01;
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3: 17.4±1.4,
P
<0.01; versus sham‐
FIO
2
0.3: 13.6±1.1 mL/kg per minute), and then returned to normal.
VO
2
in
CA
‐
FIO
2
1.0 and
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3 increased gradually and was significantly higher than sham‐
FIO
2
0.3 2 hours after resuscitation (
CA
‐
FIO
2
1.0: 28.7±6.7,
P
<0.01;
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3: 24.4±2.3,
P
<0.01; versus sham‐
FIO
2
0.3: 15.8±2.4 mL/kg per minute). The
RQ
of
CA
animals persistently decreased (
CA
‐
FIO
2
1.0: 0.54±0.12 versus
CA
‐
FIO
2
0.3: 0.68±0.05 versus sham‐
FIO
2
0.3: 0.93±0.11,
P
<0.01 overall).

Conclusions

CA
altered cellular metabolism resulting in increased
VO
2
with normal
VCO
2
. Normal
VCO
2
suggests that the postresuscitation Krebs cycle is operating at a presumably healthy rate. Increased
VO
2
in the face of normal
VCO
2
suggests a significant alteration in O
2
utilization in postresuscitation. Several
RQ
values fell well outside the normally cited range of 0.7 to 1.0. Higher
FIO
2
may increase
VO
2
, leading to even lower
RQ
values.
Can an Open Access Approach be the Solution to Better Implementation of the Right to Information Act in Bangladesh?
Authors: Baroi Harold Sougato , Alam Shawkat , Bernal Carlos
Published: June 2018

Legal implementation has always been a challenge in Bangladesh. The Right to Information Act 2009 (the RTI Act) was introduced in Bangladesh with the objective of ensuring people’s access to government information for improving accountability and empowering people to participate in decisions that shape the social, economic, and political aspects of their lives. However, this article suggests that there has been no significant improvement in accessing government information despite the enactment and the strategies for the implementation of the RTI Act. Most citizens are unaware of their legal entitlements to seek and receive information. Only a small number of applications have been registered with public offices since the RTI Act was introduced in 2009. The article argues that one of the main reasons behind the lack of improvement is that the chosen implementation approach fails to engage the public to exercise their right to access information related to government services. This article claims that a proactive and deliberative approach to information disclosure is a much better alternative to the current scheme for implementing the RTI Act.
The Serbian version of the Syntagma of Blastares, the Lex Romana Serborum
Authors: Angelini Paolo
Published: June 2018

The Serbian version of the Syntagma of Blastares was included in the tripartite codification enacted by the emperor Stephan Dušan in 1349. After the translation from Latin into Greek (6th century), and then from Greek into Serbian (14th century), Justinian’s legislation again obtained the force of law. Through the Byzantine version, Roman law was transplanted and adopted in the new born Serbian-Greek Empire. The Serbian version of the Syntagma of Blastares must be considered as a sort of Lex Romana Serborum, because in some cases the Roman law was literally translated, while in others it was epitomised. However, its contents were always in conformity with Justinianic law.
The first insect-induced galls in bryophytes
Authors: OHGUE TAKAYUKI , IMADA YUME , WONG SATO AKIRA ARMANDO , LLACSAHUANGA SALAZAR JUANA ROSA , KATO MAKOTO
Published: June 2018

Insect induced galls are not known from bryophytes. Here we report the first occurrence of such galls from thalli of a neotropical liverwort, Monoclea gottschei subsp. elongata (Marchantiophyta: Monocleaceae) from Peru. This is also the first report of animal-induced galls formed in modern thalloid liverworts. The gall-inducer is a species of the family Agromyzidae (Diptera). The galls are swellings, but are otherwise indistinguishable from intact thalli as their surface is neither ornamented nor sclerotized. The histology of the galls, however, suggested that abnormal cell growth and some differentiation occurred in the parenchymatous cells of the thalli during gall formation.
Failure to Replicate the Effects of the High-Probability Instructional Sequence on Feeding in Children With Autism and Food Selectivity
Authors: Silbaugh Bryant C. , Swinnea Samantha
Published: June 2018

Behavioral intervention has positive effects on feeding problems of children with autism and food selectivity (FS), and researchers have evaluated a variety of specific behavioral interventions. Confidence in the effects of some specific interventions on feeding such as the high-probability instructional sequence (HPS) is limited by a lack of replication. Therefore, we assessed the generality of the HPS by replicating the intervention in children with autism and FS. Contrary to prior research, the HPS did not improve feeding responses for three consecutive children enrolled in the study. We discuss the results in relation to publishing failures to replicate without experimental control in applied behavior analysis research.
The influence of oxygen delivery during cardiopulmonary bypass on the incidence of delirium in CABG patients; a retrospective study
Authors: Leenders Jori , Overdevest Ed , van Straten Bart , Golab Hanna
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Postoperative delirium is the most common neurological complication of cardiac surgery. Hypoxia has been shown to increase the risk of postoperative delirium. The possibility to continuously monitor oxygen delivery (DO2) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) offers an adequate approximation of the oxygen status in a patient. This study investigates the role of oxygen delivery during cardiopulmonary bypass in the incidence of postoperative delirium.

Methods:

Three hundred and fifty-seven adult patients who underwent normothermic coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery were included in this retrospective study. The nadir indexed DO2 (DO2i) value on bypass, the total time under the critical DO2i level and the area under the curve (AUC) for critical DO2i were determined. Delirium was identified by the postoperative administration of haloperidol.

Results:

The mean nadir DO2i significantly differed, comparing the group of patients with postoperative delirium to the group without. Multivariate analysis only identified age, pre-existing cognitive impairment, preoperative kidney dysfunction and cross-clamp time as independent risk factors for delirium. The results also indicated that patients of older age were more sensitive to a declined DO2i.

Conclusion:

A low DO2i during cardiopulmonary bypass is significantly associated with the incidence of postoperative delirium in CABG patients. However, the role of DO2 as an independent predictor of delirium could not be proven.
Weaving a clinical academic career: Illuminating the method and pattern to follow
Authors: Di Bona Laura , Field Becky , Read Jennifer , Jones Natalie , Fowler Davis Sally , Cudd Peter , Evans Laura
Published: June 2018

The benefits of developing occupational therapists as clinical academics are well recognised. They include improved healthcare outcomes and experiences for service users, efficiencies for organisations and increased prominence of occupational therapy within healthcare. Yet occupational therapists describe uncertainty about how best to navigate clinical academic career pathways. We suggest that occupational therapists can increase their research aspirations, confidence and capacity by following a four-step method, weaving together clinical, academic and personal development. We outline our view of clinical academic development as a process with flexibility to incorporate occupational therapists’ diversity of interests and circumstances. By demystifying and illuminating the process of clinical academic development, we believe that occupational therapists may be able to weave more clinical academic development opportunities into their careers and increase the profession’s research capacity.
Speaking, feeling, mattering: Theatre as method and model for practice-based, collaborative, research
Authors: Raynor Ruth
Published: June 2018

This paper examines uses of theatre for practice-based, collaborative, research. It brings a review of existing work and reflections on my own practice into dialogue with participatory geographies, studies of affect and geographies of bodily difference. This demonstrates in-depth and well-justified relationships between forms of practice and the spatial ways of knowing they engage; the surfacing of otherwise background conditions for critique and intervention; and relations between doing and thinking, as well as collaborating partners, that can open a field of possibilities. This is significant for the broader development and assessment of ‘creative’ or ‘artful’ collaborations in human geography, as I summarise in conclusion.
The Sheltering Effect of Occupational Closure? Consequences for Ethnic Minorities’ Earnings
Authors: Drange Ida , Helland Håvard
Published: June 2018

It has been widely documented that immigrants receive lower earnings than the majority of the population in most Western countries. Previous research has pointed to various forms of discrimination that affect immigrants’ wage rates. The authors discuss whether the source of this wage inequality can be found at the occupational level. In this article, the authors argue that occupational closures reduce within-occupation wage inequality. To test their expectations, the authors use Norwegian register data that span all employees. The results align with their expectations, as both occupational licensing and union density strongly reduce immigrant-majority earnings’ inequality. However, neither certifications nor credentialization reduces the immigrant-majority earnings gap.
School Closures and the Contested Unmaking of Philadelphia’s Neighborhoods
Authors: Bierbaum Ariel H.
Published: June 2018

This article presents an analysis of how people make sense of Philadelphia’s school closings in light of neighborhood change. I argue that as school districts make facilities decisions, they act as planners, legitimizing closure decisions and their racially disparate impacts by reifying quantitative metrics at the expense of meanings that residents use to understand schools. Considering schools as redevelopment sites in a larger urban context reveals how school districts are deeply engaged in the making and unmaking of places. Recasting the work of school districts as planning challenges planning researchers and practitioners to explore how to coordinate traditional planning efforts with school efforts.
The Role of Gender, Child Maltreatment, Alcohol Expectancies, and Personality Pathology on Relationship Violence Among Undergraduates
Authors: Ménard Kim S. , Dowgwillo Emily A. , Pincus Aaron L.
Published: June 2018

Male ( n = 1,104) and female ( n = 1,337) college students’ self-report surveys on childhood maltreatment, alcohol expectancies, and narcissistic personality traits are examined to determine their associations with relationship violence. Intimate partner violence was measured using the violence subscales of the revised Conflict Tactics. Because we were interested in the effects of gender and because z tests of the correlations and t tests of means indicated men and women differed significantly on several variables, ordinary least squares regression models were run separately for men and women. Results suggest there are both gender similarities and differences. Relationship violence was associated with child sexual abuse for both men and women, whereas high scores on negative alcohol expectancies and vulnerable narcissism, and low scores on grandiose narcissism, were significantly associated with violence for men only. In addition, z tests revealed the regression coefficients for child sexual abuse and negative alcohol expectancies were significantly different for men and women. Child sexual abuse and alcohol expectancies had stronger associations with men’s than women’s violent behavior. In addition, the models explained a greater amount of variance in men’s than in women’s behavior. Policy implications of the research will be discussed.
Depression and medication nonadherence in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Davis A M , Graham T B , Zhu Y , McPheeters M L
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Depression and medication nonadherence are important in managing chronic diseases, but little is known about these factors in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to estimate prevalence of depression and medication nonadherence, describe demographic and disease characteristics associated with depression and medication nonadherence, and evaluate the association between depression and medication nonadherence in cSLE patients.

Methods

Patients with cSLE ( n = 51) completed validated screening questionnaires to identify depression and medication nonadherence, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Medication Adherence Self-Report Inventory, respectively. Demographic and disease characteristics were obtained via chart abstraction, and compared between groups of depression or medication nonadherence status. A multivariable linear regression model adjusting for propensity scores was conducted to evaluate the association between depression and medication nonadherence.

Results

The prevalence of a positive depression screen was 58.8%, and seven patients reported suicidal ideation (13.7%). The prevalence of self-reported medication nonadherence was 19.7%. No statistically significant differences for demographic and disease characteristics were found between patients with a positive vs. negative depression screen. Patients reporting medication nonadherence were more likely to have longer disease duration (4.8 vs. 2.6 years, p = 0.035). As the severity of depression symptoms increased, the degree of medication nonadherence also increased (beta = –1.89; p = 0.011).

Conclusions

The prevalence of depression and medication nonadherence is high in cSLE, and these factors have a direct relationship. Interventions that better recognize and treat depression and increase rates of medication adherence are needed to improve outcomes in cSLE.
Increased serum leptin levels are associated with metabolic syndrome and carotid intima media thickness in premenopausal systemic lupus erythematosus patients without clinical atherosclerotic vascular events
Authors: Demir S , Erten G , Artım-Esen B , Şahinkaya Y , Pehlivan Ö , Alpay-Kanıtez N , Deniz G , Inanç M
Published: June 2018

Aim

To assess subclinical atherosclerosis and the role of inflammatory mediators, vascular endothelial cell activation markers and adipocytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the presence or absence of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods

We studied 66 premenopausal female SLE patients (20 with MetS) and 28 female healthy controls (HCs) without history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Subclinical atherosclerosis was screened by measuring carotid intima media thickness (CIMT). Serum levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin 6 (IL-6), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1), soluble E-selectin, leptin and visfatin were measured.

Results

The mean age of MetS+SLE, MetS- and HC were 38.3 ± 6.7, 32.7 ± 9.3 and 29.9 ± 5.6 years, respectively. The mean disease duration, SLICC (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics damage index) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores were 74.8 ± 54.9 months, 0.16 ± 0.48 and 1.18 ± 1.5, respectively, and were similar between MetS+and MetS- SLE patients. CIMT values were higher in both MetS+ and MetS- SLE patients than HCs ( p < 0.001). sICAM-1 and erythrocyte sedimentation rate levels were higher in both MetS+ and MetS- SLE patients than HCs ( p < 0.001; p = 0.002, p = 0.001). The SLE MetS+ group had higher CIMT values than SLE MetS- (right: p = 0.003; left: p = 0.025). Leptin levels and homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) scores were significantly higher in SLE MetS+ than SLE MetS- ( p = 0.018; p = 0.04). Leptin and CRP levels and body mass index, SLICC and HOMA scores were correlated with CIMT values (right: p = 0.03, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.026 and p < 0.001, and left: p = 0.028, p = 0.03, p = 0.003, p = 0.002 and p = 0.025).

Conclusions

In premenopausal women with SLE without a history of CVD, CIMT values were increased and related to MetS. Leptin was increased in patients with MetS and correlated with CIMT values.
Cross-border litigation in England and Wales
Authors: Danov Mihail
Published: June 2018

In the pre-Brexit era, England has established itself as one of the dominant jurisdictions for the resolution of cross-border disputes in the European Union (and the world). The legal regime in relation to private international law (PIL) in England and Wales has been significantly influenced by the EU PIL framework that was adopted at EU level. The United Kingdom decision to leave the EU might have significant implications for the parties’ access to justice in cross-border cases. This paper aims to devise a theoretical framework that is necessary to evaluate the potential impact of the UK’s decision to leave the EU on the private parties’ access to legal remedies. To this end, the author relies on empirical (qualitative) data that was gathered in 2015 and early 2016 in the context of the EU Private International Law: Legal Application in Reality (‘EUPILLAR’) project, indicating how the current EU PIL framework is functioning in England and Wales. An analysis of the way the parties’ strategies are devised under the current EU PIL regime helps in identifying the aspects which need to be considered, in order to set the research agenda and ascertain how the legal landscape in relation to PIL should be revised in the post-Brexit era.
An analytical solution for the stress distribution within a spherically isotropic hollow sphere under diametrical compression
Authors: Yan Lintong , Wei Xuexia
Published: June 2018

An analytical solution for the stress distributions within a spherically isotropic hollow sphere under diametrical compression is derived. The deformation of the spherically isotropic hollow sphere is divided into axis-symmetric deformation and non-symmetric deformation. The analytical solution for the axis-symmetric deformation is obtained by following the displacement method, while that for non-symmetric deformation of the spherically isotropic hollow sphere is obtained by employing the displacement function method. When the isotropic limit is considered, the analytical solution for isotropic hollow spheres is recovered identically. Numerical results show that tensile stress concentrations are usually developed both at the inner surface and near r/ R = 0.85 within a hollow sphere along the axis of loading. A small value of the anisotropy in Young’s modulus or Poisson’s ratio usually leads to a large value of the maximum tensile stress at the inner surface. While a smaller value of the anisotropy in Poisson’s ratio or a large value of the anisotropy in the shear modulus may lead to a large value of the maximum tensile stress near r/ R = 0.85 for a thick and anisotropic hollow sphere. In addition, it is found that the anisotropy in the shear modulus has drastic influence on the tensile stress distributions within a thin hollow sphere, and a particular value of the anisotropy in the shear modulus may reduce greatly the tensile stress concentrations both at inner surface and near r/ R = 0.85 of a thin hollow sphere. This result may provide us a very attractive method to optimize the elastic constants of anisotropic hollow spheres by synthesis process technique so as to improve the load capacity of a hollow sphere, and extend the fatigue life of composite material made of thin hollow spheres.
Creating solidarity: Intimate partner violence (IPV) and politics of emotions in a multi-ethnic neighbourhood in Romania
Authors: Vrăbiescu Ioana
Published: June 2018

This article tackles ethical and political dimensions of emotions while exploring forms of solidarity among women exposed to gender violence. Taking the case of a multi-ethnic neighbourhood in the border city of Giurgiu, Romania, the author investigates the role of shame, guilt and security in decisions about managing the experience of abuse in intimate partner violence. In the local community, institutional and personal interactions are shaped by state and private agents who intervene (or not) in the lives of women who are victims of gender-related violence. Institutional dynamics, street-level bureaucracy and community self-regulation employ emotive-political concepts and contribute to norms that justify and maintain violence against women. Building on scholarship of emotions and feminist ethical theories, the article shows the formative relation between the notions of shame, guilt and security, and points to the political subjectivities they create in a multi-ethnic community.
Member States’ approaches to bilateral social security agreements
Authors: Strban Grega
Published: June 2018

Bilateral social security agreements are the oldest instruments which provide social security entitlements to persons moving between the countries. EU Member States’ approaches to distinctive bilateral agreements with Non-EU States are analysed herein. Bilateral social security agreements are not only the oldest coordination instruments, but remain the most important ones linking social security systems of MS and Non-EU States. They are tailored to the social security systems of the two contracting states. Nevertheless, bilateral social security agreements might be neither comprehensive in their scope of application nor complete in covering all coordination principles. Moreover, they do not create a uniform coordination system. Under the modified migration patterns - i.e. movements for shorter period of time and between many countries - a more comprehensive social security coordination mechanism might be required.
National approaches of EU Member States in concluding bilateral social security agreements with third countries
Authors: Spiegel Bernard
Published: June 2018

For EU Member States like Austria, the EU Regulations on the coordination of social security schemes are the focus of academic and political attention. They deal with many cases and are usually very complex. They are supervised by the European Commission and the CJEU. Compared to these EU rules, bilateral agreements with third countries are treated as step-children. They do not get the academic and political attention they deserve, taking into account their importance in practice. They have common features compared to the EU rules, but there are also remarkable differences in the texts and their interpretation. The differences sometimes lead to practical problems of application and interpretation in the EU Member States. Based on Austrian experiences, all these aspects are elaborated in this article. Enhanced cooperation and exchange of information between the EU Member States in the future could help to improve the negotiating position of these countries and also guarantee greater esteem for the bilateral agreements.
Unsettling planning theory
Authors: Barry Janice , Horst Megan , Inch Andy , Legacy Crystal , Rishi Susmita , Rivero Juan J , Taufen Anne , Zanotto Juliana M , Zitcer Andrew
Published: June 2018

Recent political developments in many parts of the world seem likely to exacerbate rather than ameliorate the planetary-scale challenges of social polarization, inequality and environmental change societies face. In this unconventional multi-authored essay, we therefore seek to explore some of the ways in which planning theory might respond to the deeply unsettling times we live in. Taking the multiple, suggestive possibilities of the theme of unsettlement as a starting point, we aim to create space for reflection and debate about the state of the discipline and practice of planning theory, questioning what it means to produce knowledge capable of acting on the world today. Drawing on exchanges at a workshop attended by a group of emerging scholars in Portland, Oregon in late 2016, the essay begins with an introduction section exploring the contemporary resonances of ‘unsettling’ in, of and for planning theory. This is followed by four, individually authored responses which each connect the idea of unsettlement to key challenges and possible future directions. We end by calling for a reflective practice of theorizing that accepts unsettlement but seeks to act knowingly and compassionately on the uneven terrain that it creates.
Algorithms used in telemonitoring programmes for patients with chronic heart failure: A systematic review
Authors: Brons Maaike , Koudstaal Stefan , Asselbergs Folkert W
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Non-invasive telemonitoring programmes detecting deterioration of heart failure are increasingly used in heart failure care.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare different monitoring algorithms used in non-invasive telemonitoring programmes for patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods:

We performed a systematic literature review in MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase to identify published reports on non-invasive telemonitoring programmes in patients with heart failure aged over 18 years.

Results:

Out of 99 studies included in the study, 20 (20%) studies described the algorithm used for monitoring worsening heart failure or algorithms used for titration of heart failure medication. Most frequently used biometric measurements were bodyweight (96%), blood pressure (85%) and heart rate (61%). Algorithms to detect worsening heart failure were based on daily changes in bodyweight in 20 (100%) studies and/or blood pressure in 12 (60%) studies. In 12 (60%) studies patients were contacted by telephone in the case of measurements outside thresholds.

Conclusion:

Only one in five studies on telemonitoring in chronic heart failure reported the algorithm that was used to detect worsening heart failure. Standardised description of the telemonitoring algorithm can expedite the identification of key components in telemonitoring algorithms that allow accurate prediction of worsening heart failure.
Combination of Octopus and Periscope Techniques for the Management of Visceral Branches From Type V Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Duan , Zhang Hui , Liu Bao , Shao Jiang , Chen Yue-xin , Zheng Yue-hong
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

To describe an endovascular technique combining the octopus and periscope techniques for the treatment of a patient with type V thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm in order to protect the patient’s visceral circulation.

Case Report:

An 84-year-old male patient was hospitalized for type V thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm involving celiac axis, superior mesenteric artery, and both renal arteries. The patient’s aneurysm was successfully treated by combining the octopus technique and periscope techniques. The 1-year follow-up computed tomography angiography showed that the endograft and the branches were patent. The gutters had thrombosed with no signs of endoleak. No spinal cord ischemia or impairment of the renal function was observed during the follow-up.

Conclusions:

This case is an example of the successful usage of the combined octopus and periscope techniques in protecting the renovisceral arteries arising from a type V thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm; this combined technique might be applicable in carefully selected patients.
Trading Off Between Representativeness and Social Capital: The Case of Bayview Secondary School
Authors: Walls Jeff , Kemper Sara
Published: June 2018

Increasingly, educational leaders are recognizing that the distribution of students within districts and schools has important implications for educational quality and equity. This case is about the factors underlying the changing student demographics at Bayview School, a 6 to 12 Expeditionary Learning school in an urban district. The case implicates teachers, district officials, and parents in how policies and system changes can produce incentives that reproduce inequitable access to educational choices. The case presents events over time and asks the reader to interrogate the role of social capital, power, and organizational influence in the demographic makeup of schools in the context of school choice.
“Life Savers”: Technology and White Masculinities in Twitter-Based Superhero Film Promotion
Authors: Cummings Kelsey
Published: June 2018

Drawing from social media studies and the literature on American economic decline and conceptualizations of gender and sexuality, this article asks how Twitter’s medium-specific features can be understood through an examination of its representational qualities in the context of the promotion of two contemporary superhero films. The accounts @BatmanvSuperman and @SpiderManMovie provide case studies of film promotion that uses Twitter’s particularities as a platform in order to advance distinct narratives about the films being promoted, via original tweets and retweets that, respectively, represent differing approaches to advertisement. Through this study, the article advances the arguments, first, that cultural representations are reflective of Twitter’s specificities as a social media platform, and second, that these representations work in conjunction with cultural norms of the contemporary US. One form of idealized White masculinity advanced by the latter is reliant on technology and its merging with the White man’s body. As a result, the technologies of superheroes’ suits as well as Twitter itself become representative of the present sociopolitical climate and its various aspirations and anxieties.