bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Leukocyte Antigen-G Inhibits the Anti-Tumor Effect of Natural Killer Cells via Immunoglobulin-Like Transcript 2 in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wan Rui , Wang Zi-Wei , Li Hui , Peng Xu-Dong , Liu Guang-Yi , Ou Jun-Ming , Cheng An-Qi
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) plays an important role in inhibiting natural killer (NK) cell function and promoting immune escape. However, the specific mechanism of HLA-G on NK in gastric cancer (GC) remains not well understood. This study investigated the expression of HLA-G in GC and the role of HLA-G-effected NK cells in GC progression. Methods: HLA-G expression in GC tissues obtained from 49 patients with GC was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and western blot. The number of tumor-infiltrating NK cells and the expression of their surface receptors were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, respectively. The effect of HLA-G on NK cell proliferation was examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay. LDH release assay was used to evaluate the effect of HLA-G on the cytotoxic activity of NK cells, and the levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α in the co-cultured supernatant were detected by ELISA. Mice bearing a xenograft tumor model were used to examine the effect of HLA-G on the anti-tumor effect of NK cells. Results: HLA-G positive expression was detected in most of the GC tissues, and was correlated with the adverse prognosis of the disease. The expression of HLA-G was negatively associated with the number of tumor-infiltrating NK cells. Furthermore, GC cell lines with overexpressed HLA-G revealed their ability to inhibit the cell proliferation and cytotoxic activity of NK-92MI cells, and reduce the secretion of IFN-γ and TNF-α through immunoglobulin-like transcript 2 (ILT2). Finally, this in vivo experiment was able to prove that HLA-G can inhibit the anti-tumor effect of NK cells through ILT2. Conclusion: The expression of HLA-G was strongly correlated with the adverse prognosis of GC. The reason may be that it inhibits the proliferation and cytotoxic activity of infiltrating NK cells through ILT2.
GLP-1 and Ghrelin Attenuate High Glucose/High Lipid-Induced Apoptosis and Senescence of Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Liao Pengzhi , Yang Dan , Liu Duan , Zheng Yuehong
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: GLP-1 and ghrelin are common appetite-regulating hormones. Both have multiple functions beyond metabolic regulation. However, the effects of GLP-1 and ghrelin on endothelial biology are not fully understood. Here, we investigate the roles of GLP-1 and ghrelin in microvascular endothelial apoptosis and senescence. Methods: Human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs) were exposed to high glucose/high lipid (HG/HL) conditions and treated with GLP-1 or ghrelin. Cellular apoptosis, senescence, and mitochondrial function were measured. In addition, the MAPK and Akt signaling pathways were examined. Results: Both GLP-1 and ghrelin treatment decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells and inhibited caspase-3 and PARP cleavage and mitochondrial dysfunction in HG/HL-exposed HMECs. GLP-1, but not ghrelin decreased the number of β-galactosidase (β-gal)-positive cells. Furthermore, GLP-1 and ghrelin inhibited ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and p38 signaling. GLP-1 suppressed Akt signaling, but ghrelin had no effect. Moreover, JNK1/2 and p38 inhibitors, but not ERK1/2 and Akt inhibitors, decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells. Additionally, only the Akt inhibitor decreased the number of β-gal-positive cells. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that GLP-1 and ghrelin inhibit mitochondrial dysfunction under HG/HL conditions, and suppress endothelial apoptosis via inhibiting JNK1/2 and p38 signaling; moreover, GLP-1 alleviates endothelial senescence via inactivating Akt signaling.
Alterations in Adiposity and Glucose Homeostasis in Adult Gasp-1 Overexpressing Mice
Authors: Périè Luce , Parenté Alexis , Baraige Fabienne , Magnol Laetitia , Blanquet Véronique
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Myostatin is known as a powerful negative regulator of muscle growth playing a key role in skeletal muscle homeostasis. Recent studies revealed that myostatin-deficient mice lead to an increase of insulin sensitivity, a decrease of adiposity and a resistance to obesity, showing that myostatin can also impact on metabolism. Thus, myostatin appeared as a potential therapeutic target to treat insulin resistance. Methods: We generated transgenic mice overexpressing Gasp-1, a myostatin inhibitor. Results: Surprisingly, we found that these mice gained weight with age due to an increase in fat mass associated with ectopic fat accumulation. In addition, these mice developed an adipocyte hypertrophy, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, muscle and hepatic insulin resistance. Understanding the molecular networks controlling this insulin resistance responsiveness in overexpressing Gasp-1 mice is essential. Molecular analyses revealed a deregulation of adipokines and muscle cytokines expression, but also an increase in plasma myostatin levels. The increase in myostatin bioactivity by a positive feedback mechanism in the Tg(Gasp-1) transgenic mice could lead to this combination of phenotypes. Conclusion: Altogether, these data suggested that overexpressing Gasp-1 mice develop most of the symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome and could be a relevant model for the study of obesity or type 2 diabetes.
Laser Balloon or Wide-Area Circumferential Irrigated Radiofrequency Ablation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Schmidt Boris , Neuzil Petr , Luik Armin , Osca Asensi Joaquin , Schrickel Jan Wilko , Deneke Thomas , Bordignon Stefano , Petru Jan , Merkel Matthias , Sediva Lucie , Klostermann Annemarie , Perrotta Laura , Cano Oscar , Chun K.R. Julian
Published: December 2017

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation is the cornerstone of ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). The role of balloon catheters in this patient population remains ill defined. We sought to compare efficacy and safety of the laser balloon (LB) with wide-area circumferential pulmonary vein isolation using irrigated radiofrequency current (RF) ablation and 3-dimensional mapping.

Methods and Results

In 6 European centers, patients with persistent AF were prospectively randomized. Follow-up included 3-day Holter ECG recordings and office visits at 3, 6, and 12 months. The primary efficacy end point was freedom from AF between 90 and 365 days after a single ablation. The primary safety end point was the incidence of any periprocedural complications. Of 152 enrolled patients, 134 (n=68 LB and 66 RF; 63% men; mean age, 66+10 years) with persistent AF (median AF history, 14 months; Q1–Q3, 7–36 months) underwent pulmonary vein isolation and completed the entire follow-up. Baseline parameters were similar in both groups. Procedure and fluoroscopy times were similar in both groups (135±38 and 14±9 minutes (LB) versus 128±51 and 11±9 minutes). The primary efficacy end point was met by 71.2% versus 69.3%, in the LB and RF groups, respectively (
P
=0.40). In the LB group, stroke (n=1), a false aneurysm (n=1), and phrenic nerve palsy (n=1) were observed. In the RF group, 2 patients developed a false aneurysm, and 1 patient needed surgical repair.

Conclusions

An LB-guided strategy was associated with similar efficacy as wide-area circumferential pulmonary vein isolation using irrigated RF in patients with persistent AF.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.clinicaltrials.org
. Unique identifier: NCT01863472.
Effect of Losartan on Right Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Bokma Jouke P. , Winter Michiel M. , van Dijk Arie P. , Vliegen Hubert W. , van Melle Joost P. , Meijboom Folkert J. , Post Martijn C. , Berbee Jacqueline K. , Boekholdt S. Matthijs , Groenink Maarten , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Mulder Barbara J.M. , Bouma Berto J.
Published: December 2017

Background:

The effect of angiotensin II receptor blockers on right ventricular (RV) function is still unknown. Angiotensin II receptor blockers are beneficial in patients with acquired left ventricular dysfunction, and recent findings have suggested a favorable effect in symptomatic patients with systemic RV dysfunction. The current study aimed to determine the effect of losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, on subpulmonary RV dysfunction in adults after repaired tetralogy of Fallot.

Methods:

The REDEFINE trial (Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Tetralogy of Fallot: Inhibition of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System) is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective, 1:1 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Adults with repaired tetralogy of Fallot and RV dysfunction (RV ejection fraction [EF] <50%) but without severe valvular dysfunction were eligible. Patients were randomly assigned between losartan (150 mg daily) and placebo with target treatment duration between 18 and 24 months. The primary outcome was RV EF change, determined by cardiovascular MRI in intention-to-treat analysis.

Results:

Of 95 included patients, 47 patients received 150 mg losartan daily (age, 38.0±12.4 years; 74% male), and 48 patients received placebo (age, 40.6±11.4 years; 63% male). Overall, RV EF did not change in patients allocated to losartan (n=42) (44.4±5.1% to 45.2±5.0%) and placebo (n=46) (43.2±6.3% to 43.6±6.9%). Losartan did not significantly improve RV EF in comparison with placebo (+0.51%; 95% confidence interval, –1.0 to +2.0;
P
=0.50). No significant treatment effects were found on secondary outcomes: left ventricular EF, peak aerobic exercise capacity, and N-terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide (
P
>0.30 for all). In predefined subgroup analyses, losartan did not have a statistically significant impact on RV EF in subgroups with symptoms, restrictive RV, RV EF<40%, pulmonary valve replacement, or QRS fragmentation. However, in a post hoc analysis, losartan was associated with improved RV EF in a subgroup (n=30) with nonrestrictive RV and incomplete remodeling (QRS fragmentation and previous pulmonary valve replacement) (+2.7%; 95% confidence interval, +0.1 to +5.4;
P
=0.045).

Conclusions:

Losartan had no significant effect on RV dysfunction or secondary outcome parameters in repaired tetralogy of Fallot. Future larger studies may determine whether there might be a role for losartan in specific vulnerable subgroups.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02010905.
Incidence, Diagnosis, and Management of QT Prolongation Induced by Cancer Therapies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Porta‐Sánchez Andreu , Gilbert Cameron , Spears Danna , Amir Eitan , Chan Joyce , Nanthakumar Kumaraswamy , Thavendiranathan Paaladinesh
Published: December 2017

Background

The cardiovascular complications of cancer therapeutics are the focus of the burgeoning field of cardio‐oncology. A common challenge in this field is the impact of cancer drugs on cardiac repolarization (ie,
QT
prolongation) and the potential risk for the life‐threatening arrhythmia torsades de pointes. Although
QT
prolongation is not a perfect marker of arrhythmia risk, this has become a primary safety metric among oncologists. Cardiologists caring for patients receiving cancer treatment should become familiar with the drugs associated with
QT
prolongation, its incidence, and appropriate management strategies to provide meaningful consultation in this complex clinical scenario.

Methods and Results

In this article, we performed a systematic review (using Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines) of commonly used cancer drugs to determine the incidence of
QT
prolongation and clinically relevant arrhythmias. We calculated summary estimates of the incidence of all and clinically relevant
QT
prolongation as well as arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. We then describe strategies to prevent, identify, and manage
QT
prolongation in patients receiving cancer therapy. We identified a total of 173 relevant publications. The weighted incidence of any corrected
QT
(
QT
c) prolongation in our systematic review in patients treated with conventional therapies (eg, anthracyclines) ranged from 0% to 22%, although
QT
c >500 ms, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac death was extremely rare. The risk of
QT
c prolongation with targeted therapies (eg, small molecular tyrosine kinase inhibitors) ranged between 0% and 22.7% with severe prolongation (
QT
c >500 ms) reported in 0% to 5.2% of the patients. Arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death were rare.

Conclusions

Our systematic review demonstrates that there is variability in the incidence of
QT
c prolongation of various cancer drugs; however, the clinical consequence, as defined by arrhythmias or sudden cardiac death, remains rare.
Visual Aids for Patient, Family, and Physician Decision Making About Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Tokunboh Ivie , Vales Montero Marta , Zopelaro Almeida Matheus Fellipe , Sharma Latisha , Starkman Sidney , Szeder Viktor , Jahan Reza , Liebeskind David , Gonzalez Nestor , Demchuk Andrew , Froehler Michael T. , Goyal Mayank , Lansberg Maarten G. , Lutsep Helmi , Schwamm Lee , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose—

Rapid decision making optimizes outcomes from endovascular thrombectomy for acute cerebral ischemia. Visual displays facilitate swift review of potential outcomes and can accelerate decision processes.

Methods—

From patient-level, pooled randomized trial data, 100 person-icon arrays (Kuiper–Marshall personographs) were generated showing beneficial and adverse effects of endovascular thrombectomy for patients with acute cerebral ischemia and large vessel occlusion using (1) automated (algorithmic) and (2) expert-guided joint outcome table specification.

Results—

For the full 7-category modified Rankin Scale, thrombectomy added to IV tPA (intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator) alone had number needed to treat to benefit 2.9 (95% confidence interval, 2.6–3.3) and number needed to harm 68.9 (95% confidence interval, 40–250); thrombectomy for patients ineligible for IV tPA had number needed to treat to benefit 2.3 (95% confidence interval, 2.1–2.5) and number needed to harm 100 (95% confidence interval, 62.5–250). Visual displays of treatment effects on 100 patients showed: with thrombectomy added to IV tPA alone, 34 patients have better disability outcome, including 14 more normal or near normal (modified Rankin Scale, 0–1); with thrombectomy for patients ineligible for IV tPA, 44 patients have a better disability outcome, including 16 more normal or nearly normal. Displays also showed that harm (increased modified Rankin Scale final disability) occurred in 1 of 100 patients in both populations, mediated by increased new territory infarcts. The person-icon figures integrated these outcomes, and early side-effects, in a single display.

Conclusions—

Visual decision aids are now available to rapidly educate healthcare providers, patients, and families about benefits and risks of endovascular thrombectomy, both when added to IV tPA in tPA-eligible patients and as the sole reperfusion treatment in tPA-ineligible patients.
Where are primary type specimens of new mite species deposited?
Authors: LIU JIAN-FENG , WEI XIAO-YING , LI GUANG-YUN , ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: December 2017

A list of type depositories of new mite species published in two journals (Systematic & Applied Acarology and Zootaxa) during the last five years (2012–2016) is presented in this paper. The 1370 new species are deposited unevenly among 134 collections. The top collection is the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia (145 species), which alone accounts for 10% of the total new species, and the top ten collections accounted for 48% of the total. The average number of new species per collection is 10 and over three quarters of the collections are below the average. Just over half (51%) of the collections are in Europe. However, overall there were still more new species deposited in collections in developing counties (741) than developed countries (629). The top country for type depositories of new mite species for each continent is: Russia (199 species) for Europe, Brazil (134 species) for South America, Iran (133 species) for Asia, Australia (87 species) for Oceania, USA (80 species) for North America and South Africa (36 species) for Africa. The top European collections hold type specimens mostly of foreign origin, whereas those of South America, Asia, Africa and Australasia hold type specimens mostly originating from their own countries.
The Macrobiotus hufelandi group (Tardigrada) revisited
Authors: KACZMAREK ŁUKASZ , MICHALCZYK ŁUKASZ
Published: December 2017

Species of the Macrobiotus hufelandi group are one of the most often recorded tardigrades throughout the globe. For over a century M. hufelandi has been considered cosmopolitan but in recent decades numerous species of similar morphologies have been described from various continents, which suggests that what was originally defined as a single taxon is, in fact, a complex of species. The definition of the hufelandi group is subject to a long-standing discussion and in this paper we propose a refined set of characters that are hoped to elucidate the taxonomic status of the group. In order to aid interspecific comparisons, we also propose a unified nomenclature for the crucial morphological traits and clar
Evaluating AMIP Skill in Simulating Interannual Variability over the Indo–Western Pacific
Authors: Zhou Zhen-Qiang , Xie Shang-Ping , Zhang Guang J. , Zhou Wenyu
Published: December 2017

Local correlation between sea surface temperature (SST) and rainfall is weak or even negative in summer over the Indo–western Pacific warm pool, a fact often taken as indicative of weak ocean feedback on the atmosphere. An Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project (AMIP) simulation forced by monthly varying SSTs derived from a parallel coupled general circulation model (CGCM) run is used to evaluate AMIP skills in simulating interannual variability of rainfall. Local correlation of rainfall variability between AMIP and CGCM simulations is used as a direct metric of AMIP skill. This “perfect model” approach sidesteps the issue of model biases that complicates the traditional skill metric based on the correlation between AMIP and observations. Despite weak local SST–rainfall correlation, the AMIP–CGCM rainfall correlation exceeds a 95% significance level over most of the Indo–western Pacific warm pool, indicating the importance of remote (e.g., El Niño in the equatorial Pacific) rather than local SST forcing. Indeed, the AMIP successfully reproduces large-scale modes of rainfall variability over the Indo–western Pacific warm pool. Compared to the northwest Pacific east of the Philippines, the AMIP–CGCM rainfall correlation is low from the Bay of Bengal through the South China Sea, limited by internal variability of the atmosphere that is damped in CGCM by negative feedback from the ocean. Implications for evaluating AMIP skill in simulating observations are discussed.
Low-Level Cool Air over the Midlatitude Oceans in Summer
Authors: Shimada Teruhisa , Kanno Yuki , Iwasaki Toshiki
Published: December 2017

The climatology of low-level cool air over the midlatitude oceans in summer is presented based on an isentropic analysis. This study focuses on isentropic surfaces of 296 K to analyze an adiabatic invariant referred to as the negative heat content representing the coldness of the air layer below the threshold isentropic surface. This approach allows a systematic analysis and a quantitative comparison of the cool air distribution and a diagnosis of diabatic heating of the air mass. The cool air covers most of the subarctic oceans and extends equatorward over the coastal upwelling regions in the east of the ocean basins. In these regions, the genesis of the cool air is diagnosed. The loss of the cool air occurs over land and the subtropical oceans, particularly on the offshore side of the coastal upwelling regions. In the Pacific sector and the Indian Ocean sector of the Southern Ocean, another large loss of the cool air occurs along the oceanic frontal zone including the Agulhas Return Current. Over the zonally extended region where the cool air is generated in the Southern Hemisphere and the coastal upwelling regions, it is suggested that diabatic cooling associated with low-level clouds overcome heating by turbulent surface heat fluxes. The genesis of the cool air over the subarctic oceans in the Northern Hemisphere in the warm season switches into the loss of the cold air in the cool season on a basin scale. Meanwhile, over the oceans in the Southern Hemisphere, there is no basin-scale seasonal switch.
Estimation of Actual Evapotranspiration by the Complementary Theory-Based Advection–Aridity Model in the Tarim River Basin, China
Authors: Jian Dongnan , Li Xiucang , Sun Hemin , Tao Hui , Jiang Tong , Su Buda , Hartmann Heike
Published: December 2017

In this study, the complementary relationship between actual evapotranspiration (ETa) and potential evapotranspiration (ETp) was verified in the Tarim River basin (TRB) in northwest China. The advection–aridity (AA) model that is based on the complementary relationship (CR) was used to calculate ETa. Spatial and temporal trends in the estimated annual ETa and the factors that influenced ETa were investigated. The multiyear average ETa in the TRB for the period from 1961 to 2014 was 178.5 mm. There was an overall significant increasing trend (at a rate of 10.6 mm decade−1) in ETa from 1961 to 2014; ETa increased at a rate of 22.9 mm decade−1 from 1961 to 1996 and decreased at a rate of 33.9 mm decade−1 from 1996 to 2014. Seasonally, ETa was strongest in summer, followed by spring and autumn. The spatial distributions of the annual and seasonal ETa were mostly consistent, with higher ETa values in the northeast, northwest, and southwest of the TRB, and lower ETa values in the mostly desert lands in the central and southeastern areas. While the energy budget (indicated by net radiation Rn) had little influence on ETa over time, the advection budget (indicated by the drying power of the air Ea) played an important role, explainable by Bouchet’s complementary relationship. In the Aksu River basin (ARB), ETa has increased because of an increase in the surface water supply (SWS). The change in ETa between 1996 and 1998 may have been caused by changes in the SWS and the advection budget during the same time period.
Concluding Remarks: Policy Implications for Postsecondary Arts Education
Authors: Dempster Douglas J.
Published: December 2017

Insightful, rigorous social scientific research on the effectiveness of postsecondary education in the arts provides a more reliable guide and corrective to arts colleges than the accreditation process enforced by the National Office of Arts Accreditation, which protects and privileges arts disciplines, and faculties, over the interests of students. The postsecondary arts education industry should become more data driven and less tradition-bound.
Study of Surface Wettability Change of Unconsolidated Sand Using Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Gómora-Herrera Diana , Navarrete Bolaños Juan , Lijanova Irina V. , Olivares-Xometl Octavio , Likhanova Natalya V.
Published: December 2017

The effects exerted by the adsorption of vapors of a non-polar compound (deuterated benzene) and a polar compound (water) on the surface of Ottawa sand and a sample of reservoir sand (Channel), which was previously impregnated with silicon oil or two kinds of surfactants, (2-hydroxyethyl) trimethylammonium oleate (HETAO) and (2-hydroxyethyl)trimethylammonium azelate (HETAA), were studied by diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The surface chemistry of the sandstone rocks was elucidated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Terminal surface groups such as hydroxyls can strongly adsorb molecules that interact with these surface groups (surfactants), resulting in a wettability change. The wettability change effect suffered by the surface after treating it with surfactants was possible to be detected by the DRIFTS technique, wherein it was observed that the surface became more hydrophobic after being treated with silicon oil and HETAO; the surface became more hydrophilic after treating it with HETAA.
What’s left of 1963: Mariano Bàino and the avant-garde with two “nei”
Authors: Rizzo Gianluca
Published: December 2017

After Gruppo 63 disbanded and Quindici ceased publication, the Italian neo-avant-garde experienced a period of crisis. While a few poets continued undeterred on their path of experimentation, many of its protagonists turned to a plainer, more traditional style. In the 1980s a new generation of authors attempted to form a third wave of avant-garde: they called themselves Gruppo 93. Although their organizational efforts were mostly unsuccessful, they led to the creation of a large amount of poetry, prose, and essays on aesthetics and poetics. This literary and theoretical output is almost completely neglected by contemporary criticism. The present article begins to remedy these circumstances, by reconstructing the forces at play during those years, describing some of the protagonists active in the field, reconstructing their ideas, and providing an account of their differences and commonalities. Additionally, it situates Mariano Bàino and one of his most interesting collections of verse, Fax giallo ( Yellow Fax, 1993), within the context of this complex history.
Social Consequences of Neoliberal Economic Crisis and Austerity Policy in the Baltic States
Authors: Usha K. B.
Published: December 2017

This article tries to outline the social consequences of neoliberal economic crisis and the domestic austerity policies in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, commonly known as the Baltic states. In order to recover from the shock of global and Eurozone economic crises, since 2008, the Baltic states adopted severe austerity policy comprised of enormous cutbacks of government expenditure in social welfare, health care and education, and labour market reforms that made employment relationships more insecure. Baltic political leaders highlighted their austerity model as the right policy for economic recovery and claimed that it can be emulated by other crisis-stricken countries in Europe. However, the austerity policy’s success claims contradict with its revealing social consequences such as increased national debt, unemployment, out-migration, negative demographic change, poverty, inequality, social exclusion, deterioration in health security and misery to the common people. Moreover, the austerity policy contradicts with the principles of the European Union’s (EU’s) ‘social Europe’ model and representative democracy which prioritize the role of state to guarantee well-being of its citizens. Hence, the social cost of economic crisis and austerity and its implications for sustainable development in the long run in the Baltic states are examined here.
India’s UN Peacekeeping Operations Involvement in Africa
Authors: Choedon Yeshi
Published: December 2017

India accords high significance to its participation in the UN peacekeeping in Africa. Apart from examining India’s contribution in quantitative terms and the varieties of personnel involved, it highlights the Indian peacekeepers’ unique characteristics in terms of professionalism, reliability, humane approach and other distinctive features. It also discusses blemishes they brought on the country because of allegations of corruption and sexual abuse, and how India tackles those issues. The major focus is on the driving factors, which motivated India to participate in the risky operations in Africa that have evolved in keeping with the geopolitical shifts at the global level. Initially, the rationale for its participation was to express solidarity with African countries, but now it is more to ensure energy security and to maximize the opportunity for trade and investment. The aspiration for recognition as a great power remains a constant factor of its involvement in UN peacekeeping operations in Africa, and India has been leveraging this contribution for claiming a permanent seat at the UN Security Council since the early 1990s. It discusses the apprehension of a shift in India’s participation due to frustration at the lack of progress in UN reform. However, the indicators direct that the attempt is more to reconfigure its participation and to highlight the need to go back to the traditional root of the peacekeeping operations, keeping in view the diversions that took place in the post-Cold War.
Twenty Five Years of Russian Banking System
Authors: Yadav Raj
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this article is to assess the Russian banking system for the period 1991–2015. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia introduced economic reforms to move from a centrally planned economy to a market economy, and banking reforms were part of it. During early years of transition, Russia suffered from negative growth rate: 1998 and 2008 crises. The entire Russian economy, including the banking system, got affected. Therefore, it is essential to know how the Russian banking system performed in these 25 years. The study found that the Russian banking system performance was not satisfactory until 1998–1999; from 2000 onwards, the system showed some signs of resilience. The Russian banking system is largely concentrated and dominated by state-owned banks with 58.4 per cent of share of the total banking assets and 57 per cent share of the total banking capital in comparison to foreign-owned and privately owned banks. Banks are largely concentrated in the regions of Moscow and St. Petersburg in comparison to Ural, Siberia and Russian Far East. Macroeconomic indicators of the Russian banking sector, including banking sector assets, capital, loans, securities and household deposits as per cent to GDP, revealed a rising trend. This indicates the ability of the banking sector to create loans and attract depositors by maintaining their trust in the banking system. Return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE) and non-performing loans (NPL) are the main drivers of profitability, and the trend shows a low growth rate in ROA and equity and high growth rate in NPL, which are of major concern for banking system health.
The impact of criminal prosecutions during intrastate conflict
Authors: Dancy Geoff , Wiebelhaus-Brahm Eric
Published: December 2017

The International Criminal Court’s interventions have prompted debate about the wisdom of criminally prosecuting combatants while attempting to build peace in conflict-ridden societies. Previous research fails to distinguish between different types of trials. Using a large-N dataset of three types of criminal trials undertaken during internal conflict – domestic security trials of rebels, domestic human rights trials of state agents, and international war crimes trials of both – this article tests a theory of the compellent effect of criminal prosecution on conflict termination. We find that, even when accounting for endogeneity, rebel trials are associated with a higher probability of conflict termination, while trials of state agents are weakly associated with conflict persistence. We argue that the former compel the opposition to discontinue fighting, while the latter signal to rebels a lack of government resolve. We also find that the effect of international trials, which at times appear weakly associated with conflict termination, is endogenous to international intervention more generally.
Ambulatory pulse pressure, brain neuronal fiber integrity, and cerebral blood flow in older adults
Authors: Tarumi Takashi , Thomas Binu P , Wang Ciwen , Zhang Li , Liu Jie , Turner Marcel , Riley Jonathan , Tangella Nikita , Womack Kyle B , Kerwin Diana R , Cullum C Munro , Lu Hanzhang , Vongpatanasin Wanpen , Zhu David C , Zhang Rong
Published: December 2017

Ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) reflects the end-organ vascular stress in daily life; however, its influence on brain neuronal fiber integrity and cerebral blood flow (CBF) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the associations among ABP, white matter (WM) neuronal fiber integrity, and CBF in older adults. We tested 144 participants via ABP monitoring and diffusion tensor imaging. The total level and pulsatile indices of CBF were measured by phase-contrast MRI and transcranial Doppler, respectively. Neuropsychological assessment was conducted in 72 participants. Among ambulatory and office BP measures, elevated 24-h pulse pressure (PP) was associated with the greatest number of WM skeleton voxels with decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) and increased mean diffusivity (MD). Furthermore, these associations remained significant after adjusting for age, antihypertensive use, aortic stiffness, WM lesion volume, and office PP. Radial diffusivity (RD) was elevated in the regions with decreased FA, while axial diffusivity was unaltered. The reduction in diastolic index explained a significant proportion of the individual variability in FA, MD, and RD. Executive function performance was correlated with WM fiber integrity. These findings suggest that elevated ambulatory PP may deteriorate brain neuronal fiber integrity via reduction in diastolic index.
Instantaneous and cycle optimization of fuel usage on a dual fuel vehicle leveraging gasoline and natural gas
Authors: Hall Carrie M , Pamminger Michael , Sevik James , Wallner Thomas
Published: December 2017

Recent increases in natural gas supply have led to a desire to leverage this fuel in the transportation sector. Dual fuel engines provide a platform on which to use natural gas efficiently; these engines, however, require new hardware and new control strategies to properly utilize two fuels simultaneously. This paper explores the impact of implementing dual fuel capabilities on a sedan and demonstrates that a dual fuel E10 and compressed natural gas engine is able to improve the average engine efficiency by up to 6.5% compared to a single fuel engine on standard drive cycles. An optimal control technique is also developed, and the proposed approach allows factors including fuel cost and fuel availability to be taken into account. Optimization at each time instant is investigated and contrasted with optimization over the entire cycle. Cycle optimization is shown to have particular value for cases in which the level in one fuel tank is low.
Upregulated miR-29c suppresses silica-induced lung fibrosis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in mice
Authors: Wang X , Xu K , Yang XY , Liu J , Zeng Q , Wang FS
Published: December 2017

Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease resulting from long-term inhalation of occupational dust containing silicon dioxide. However, the pathogenesis of silicosis has not been clearly understood yet. Accumulating evidence suggests that miR-29 may have a significant anti-fibrotic capacity, meanwhile it may relate to Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The purpose of this study was to discuss the role of miR-29 in the progression of silicosis. A lentiviral vector was constructed, named Lv-miR-29c, which was overexpressing miR-29c. In vivo, intratracheal treatment with Lv-miR-29c significantly increased expression of miR-29c, and reduced expression of β-catenin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9 in the lung and levels of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and notably attenuated pulmonary fibrosis as evidenced by hydroxyproline content in silica-administered mice. These results indicated that miR-29c inhibited the development of silica-induced lung fibrosis. Thus, miR-29c may be a candidate target for silicosis treatment via its regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
The Transliminal Self: The Ebb and Flow of the Kidney Transplant Experience
Authors: Bogue Kerr Stephanie , Soulière Marguerite , Bell Lorraine
Published: December 2017

For people with kidney disease, transplantation is considered a better treatment option than dialysis. A kidney transplant does not, however, ensure an illness-free existence. Compared with the wealth of literature produced from a biomedical perspective, there is little qualitative research focused on the young adult transplant experience. This article presents the findings of a phenomenological study exploring young adults’ kidney transplant experiences. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, semidirected interviews were conducted with five people. Analysis of the transcribed interviews revealed that these individuals’ kidney transplant experiences were paradoxical in nature: Participants described an existence between sickness and health, self and other, life and death. Consequently, liminality was identified as one of the experience’s key elements and used together with the concept of rites of passage in its analysis. To incorporate these experiences, the term transliminal self is proposed.
Effects of temperature and temperature gradient on concrete performance at elevated temperatures
Authors: Le Quang X , Dao Vinh TN , Torero Jose L , Maluk Cristian , Bisby Luke
Published: December 2017

To assure adequate fire performance of concrete structures, appropriate knowledge of and models for performance of concrete at elevated temperatures are crucial yet currently lacking, prompting further research. This article first highlights the limitations of inconsistent thermal boundary conditions in conventional fire testing and of using constitutive models developed based on empirical data obtained through testing concrete under minimised temperature gradients in modelling of concrete structures with significant temperature gradients. On that basis, this article outlines key features of a new test setup using radiant panels to ensure well-defined and reproducible thermal and mechanical loadings on concrete specimens. The good repeatability, consistency and uniformity of the thermal boundary conditions are demonstrated using measurements of heat flux and in-depth temperature of test specimens. The initial collected data appear to indicate that the compressive strength and failure mode of test specimens are influenced by both temperature and temperature gradient. More research is thus required to further quantify such effect and also to effectively account for it in rational performance-based fire design and analysis of concrete structures. The new test setup reported in this article, which enables reliable thermal/mechanical loadings and deformation capturing of concrete surface at elevated temperatures using digital image correlation, would be highly beneficial for such further research.
Determinants of India’s Bilateral Intra-industry Trade over 2001–2015
Authors: Aggarwal Sakshi , Chakraborty Debashis
Published: December 2017

Over the last decade India’s integration in international production networks (IPNs) has deepened, with growing simultaneous export and import within product categories. This has been facilitated by India’s entry into several regional trade agreements (RTAs) and multilateral tariff and non-tariff barriers reforms. The present paper examines the patterns and determinants of aggregate bilateral intra-industry trade (IIT) between India and 25 major trading partners during 2001–2015 in a panel data framework. India’s bilateral IIT indices with select countries generally display an upward trend over the sample period. The empirical results indicate that vertical intra-industry trade (VIIT) significantly explains India’s IIT pattern with the selected countries. The analysis further concludes that trade facilitation among the trading partners may significantly enhance bilateral IIT level with respect to India’s high-income partners, while the same effect is non-significant for low-income countries. Interestingly, the preferential trade dummy is found to be non-significant, implying limited influence of the RTA partnerships on India’s aggregate bilateral IIT. The empirical results underline the need for fast-tracking the trade facilitation-related reforms.
Efficiency of India’s Agricultural Exports
Authors: Barma Tina
Published: December 2017

This article is an empirical study employing various time-invariant and time-varying specifications of a stochastic gravity model of trade. It enumerates the inefficiency component among the determinants of Indian agricultural export flows to 112 partner countries, over the years 2000–2013. The panel study finds empirical support for high yet decreasing home country inefficiency or ‘behind-the-border’ constraints to trade. Also significance of regional groups ASEAN, SAFTA and Africa shows that trade policy concentrating on developing countries have been successful export policies. Thus, the export efficiency scores help in articulating future policy initiatives for diversification of the country’s exports according to the significance and level of efficiency of partners. Nevertheless, literal interpretations of the efficiency scores are sensitive to the nature of modelling and their specifications.
Identity and collective action via computer-mediated communication: A review and agenda for future research
Authors: Priante Anna , Ehrenhard Michel L , van den Broek Tijs , Need Ariana
Published: December 2017

Since the start of large-scale waves of mobilisation in 2011, the importance of identity in the study of collective action via computer-mediated communication (CMC) has been a source of contention. Hence, our research sets out to systematically review and synthesise empirical findings on identity and collective action via CMC from 2012 to 2016. We found that the literature on the topic is broad and diverse, with contributions from multiple disciplines and theoretical and methodological approaches. Based on our findings, we provide directions for future research and propose the adoption of an integrative approach that combines the study of identity and networks to advance our understanding of collective action via CMC. This review contributes to the crossroad of social movement, collective action, communication and media studies. Our results also have practical implications for the organisation of collective action in a society characterised by the pervasive influence of CMC.
A narrative review on the difficulties associated with fibromyalgia diagnosis
Authors: Kumbhare Dinesh , Ahmed Sara , Watter Scott
Published: December 2017

Fibromyalgia presents a clinical enigma as its pathophysiology is not well understood and its symptoms are nonspecific and overlap with many disorders, making its diagnosis a challenge for clinicians and researchers. Efforts have been made to develop a set of diagnostic criteria for this disorder. However, these criteria rely heavily on expert clinician opinion and produce a large heterogeneity within the diagnosed population. With no present specific technique reflecting the underlying pathophysiology of fibromyalgia, a definitive diagnosis of fibromyalgia remains elusive. This review discusses some problems and challenges associated with fibromyalgia diagnosis and presents some novel findings on the pathophysiological nature of fibromyalgia.
Quantitative MRI of Human Cartilage In Vivo: Relationships with Arthroscopic Indentation Stiffness and Defect Severity
Authors: Svärd Tuomas , Lakovaara Martti , Pakarinen Harri , Haapea Marianne , Kiviranta Ilkka , Lammentausta Eveliina , Jurvelin Jukka , Tervonen Osmo , Ojala Risto , Nieminen Miika
Published: December 2017

Objective

To investigate the association of cartilage defect severity, as determined by the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grading with indentation stiffness and T2 relaxation time of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a biomarker for the integrity of articular cartilage.

Design

Twenty-one patients scheduled for arthroscopic were included in the study. Prior to arthroscopy, subjects underwent quantitative MRI of articular cartilage, namely T2 relaxation time mapping at 1.5 T. Within 2 months, subjects underwent arthroscopy, which also included ICRS grading and measurement of arthroscopic indentation stiffness. Arthroscopic evaluations and T2 mapping at anterior, central, and posterior medial and lateral femoral condyles were correlated using a colocalization scheme. Differences in Young’s modulus, as derived by indentation tests, and T2 times between ICRS grades were analyzed using Mann-Whitney’s U or Kruskal-Wallis H tests. The correlation between modulus and T2 times was analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients.

Results

Modulus and T2 showed significant topographical variation. In the anterior region of interest (ROI) on the medial condyle the modulus showed a negative association with ICRS grade ( P = 0.040) and the T2 times were longer in ICRS grade 2 compared with grades 0 and 1 ( P = 0.047). Similar, but nonsignificant associations were found in the central ROI on the medial condyle. No significant correlations were observed between the indentation modulus and T2 times.

Conclusions

Cartilage degeneration is identified both with mechanical indentation and T2 mapping in MRI. However, in this study, indentation stiffness and T2 relaxation time in vivo, were not associated.
Teaching about the First World War today: Historical empathy and participatory citizenship
Authors: Davison Martyn
Published: December 2017

This article explores the concept of historical empathy and how it can foster a greater understanding of a significant episode in New Zealand and Australian history, the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign. It also highlights the potential that the concept holds for encouraging students to participate in civic society. It does this by drawing upon the author’s experience of teaching historical empathy to young people in a way that aims to affectively tune in to shared human traits and cognitively comprehend why another person holds a different set of beliefs. In doing this, the author’s aim is to develop in young people an empathic understanding of the lives of others, past and present.
Open repair management of a patient with aortic arch saccular aneurysm, penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, one vessel coronary artery disease and an isolated dissection of the abdominal aorta
Authors: Romolo Harvey , Wartono Dicky A , Suyuti Sugisman , Herlambang Bagus , Caesario Michael , Sunu Ismoyo
Published: December 2017

Isolated saccular compared to fusiform aneurysm is considered to be a rare entity with challenges of its own. A 62-year-old female was diagnosed with a case of saccular aneurysm and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer of the aortic arch. Additionally, she also had one vessel coronary artery disease and type B abdominal aortic dissection. She was then managed with open aortic arch repair and coronary artery bypass grafting. If required, elective endovascular repair will be done for the abdominal aorta on a later date.
The Regional Consequences of Territorial Disputes: An Empirical Analysis of the South China Sea Disputes
Authors: Sakuwa Kentaro
Published: December 2017

How do territorial disputes shape regional contexts within which politics among local states takes place? This paper analyses regional impacts of territorial disputes drawing on the case of South China Sea and statistical data. I argue that ‘local security externalities’ produced by ongoing territorial disputes influence not only direct disputants but also other states in the regional neighbourhood. Escalated disputes in the South China Sea exacerbated China’s relationships with Japan—which is not a direct disputant—because Japan shares important stakes in the disputed area and China’s assertive policy was perceived as a sign of its willingness to use force and pursue a ‘hegemonic’ ambition in the region. Such effect is also confirmed by a time-series of analysis of the post-Cold War Sino-Japanese relationships. Thus, this paper empirically shows that ongoing territorial disputes may influence a larger group of regional states, thus shaping a regional context for political interactions.