bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal recovery of local neuronal activity and consciousness level in acquired brain injury
Authors: Zou Qihong , Wu Xuehai , Hu Jin , Tang Weijun , Mao Ying , Zhu Jianhong , Lu Lu , Zhang Yao , Gao Jia‐Hong
Published: April 2017

Decreased brain activity in the default mode network, particularly in the precuneus (PCU), has been consistently shown in acquired brain injury (ABI) patients. However, it is unclear whether resting‐state brain activity recovers longitudinally in ABI patients and whether functional activity restoration is associated with improvements in consciousness level. Here, resting‐state fMRI data were acquired from 23 ABI patients and 30 age‐ and gender‐matched controls with two longitudinal observations for each participant. The fMRI data were analyzed using amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF) to measure the fluctuation strength of local spontaneous activity, and seed‐based functional connectivity was used to measure functional relationship with the seed region in the whole brain. The level of consciousness was assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Coma Recovery Scale‐Revised (CRS‐R) on both scanning days of the patients. Interaction effect between the two groups and two scans in ALFF was observed in the PCU, which was driven by restored ALFF in the ABI, while a stable ALFF in the control group. Moreover, restoration of ALFF in the PCU correlated with improvements in both the CRS‐R and GCS. Specifically, recovery of ALFF in the PCU primarily reflected the signals of the slow‐4 frequency band (0.027–0.073 Hz). Based on the functional connectivity maps of the PCU, we observed a nonsignificant interaction effect or correlation with consciousness level. These findings suggest local activity in the PCU but possibly not its functional connectivity, is related to the longitudinal changes in behavioral responsiveness in ABI. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3579–3591, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The hemochromatosis protein HFE 20 years later: An emerging role in antigen presentation and in the immune system
Authors: Reuben Alexandre , Chung Jacqueline W. , Lapointe Réjean , Santos Manuela M.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Since its discovery, the hemochromatosis protein HFE has been primarily defined by its role in iron metabolism and homeostasis, and its involvement in the genetic disease termed hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). While HH patients are typically afflicted by dysregulated iron levels, many are also affected by several immune defects and increased incidence of autoimmune diseases that have thereby implicated HFE in the immune response. Growing evidence has supported an immunological role for HFE with recent studies describing HFE specifically as it relates to MHC I antigen presentation.

Methods/Results

Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the relationship between iron metabolism, HFE, and the immune system to better understand the origin and cause of immune defects in HH patients. We further describe the role of HFE in MHC I antigen presentation and its potential to impair autoimmune responses in homeostatic conditions, a mechanism which may be exploited by tumors to evade immune surveillance.

Conclusion

Overall, this increased understanding of the role of HFE in the immune response sets the stage for better treatment and management of HH and other iron‐related diseases, as well as of the immune defects related to this condition.
Group 2 innate lymphoid cells are elevated and activated in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Poposki Julie A. , Klingler Aiko I. , Tan Bruce K. , Soroosh Pejman , Banie Homayon , Lewis Gavin , Hulse Kathryn E. , Stevens Whitney W. , Peters Anju T. , Grammer Leslie C. , Schleimer Robert P. , Welch Kevin C. , Smith Stephanie S. , Conley David B. , Raviv Joseph R. , Karras James G. , Akbari Omid , Kern Robert C. , Kato Atsushi
Published: April 2017

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is characterized by type 2 inflammation with high levels of Th2 cytokines. Although T helper cytokines are released from T cells, innate lymphoid cells (ILC) are also known to produce high levels of the same cytokines. However, the presence of various types of ILC in CRS is poorly understood.

Objective

The objective of this study was to fully characterize the presence of all ILC subsets in CRS and to identify phenotypical differences of group 2 ILC (ILC2) in CRSwNP compared to ILC2 from non‐type 2 inflamed areas.

Methods

We investigated the presence of ILC subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy subjects, tonsil tissue, ethmoid tissue from control subjects and patients with non‐polypoid CRS (CRSsNP) and CRSwNP, as well as nasal polyp (NP) tissue from CRSwNP by flow cytometry. Sorted ILC2 were cultured in the presence and absence of IL‐33 and production of IL‐5 and IL‐13 was assessed by Luminex.

Results

We found that all ILC subsets were present in NP but ILC2 were dominant and significantly elevated compared to PBMC, tonsil, CRSsNP, and normal sinus tissue. We also found that inducible T‐cell co‐stimulator (ICOS) and side scatter were increased and CD127 was down‐regulated in ILC2 from NP compared to blood or tonsil ILC2. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin, IL‐7, and IL‐33 were able to down‐regulate expression of CD127 and increase side scatter in blood ILC2. Furthermore, sorted NP ILC2 but not blood ILC2 spontaneously released type 2 cytokines including IL‐5 and IL‐13.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

These results suggest that ILC2 are not only elevated but also activated in CRSwNP in vivo and that ILC2 may play important roles in the type 2 inflammation in CRSwNP.
Computational Analysis of Breast Cancer GWAS Loci Identifies the Putative Deleterious Effect of STXBP4 and ZNF404 Gene Variants
Authors: Masoodi Tariq Ahmad , Banaganapalli Babajan , Vaidyanathan Venkatesh , Talluri Venkateswar R. , Shaik Noor A.
Published: April 2017

The genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have enabled us in identifying different breast cancer (BC) susceptibility loci. However, majority of these are non‐coding variants with no annotated biological function. We investigated such 78 noncoding genome wide associated SNPs of BC and further expanded the list to 2,162 variants with strong linkage‐disequilibrium (LD, r2 ≥0.8). Using multiple publically available algorithms such as CADD, GWAVA, and FATHAMM, we classified all these variants into deleterious, damaging, or benign categories. Out of total 2,241 variants, 23 (1.02%) variants were extreme deleterious (rank 1), 70 (3.12%) variants were deleterious (rank 2), and 1,937 (86.43%) variants were benign (rank 3). The results show 14% of lead or associated variants are under strong negative selection (GERP++ RS ≥2), and ∼22% are under balancing selection (Tajima's D score >2) in CEU population of 1KGP—the regions being positively selected (GERP++ RS <0) in mammalian evolution. The expression quantitative trait loci of highest deleteriously ranked genes were tested on relevant adipose and breast tissues, the results of which were extended for protein expression on breast tissues. From the concordance analysis of ranking system of GWAVA, CADD, and FATHMM, eQTL and protein expression, we identified the deleterious SNPs localized in STXBP4 and ZNF404 genes which might play a role in BC development by dysregulating its gene expression. This simple approach will be easier to implement and to prioritize large scale GWAS data for variety of diseases and link to the potentially unrecognized functional roles of genes. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4296–4307, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A case of successful concomitant administration of warfarin and uracil‐tegafur/leucovorin achieved by self‐measurement of INR
Authors: Watanabe Norio , Hosokawa Sachiko , Osumi Yukio , Imanishi Takahiro , Koga Ryota , Higashi Toshiya , Yamada Takuya , Yamamura Keiko
Published: April 2017

A woman in her seventies who was started on warfarin after heart valve replacement began outpatient adjuvant chemotherapy with tegafur‐uracil/leucovorin for rectal cancer. The patient performed weekly INR self‐measurements at a health insurance pharmacy between outpatient visits. Results recorded in her personal medicine notebook were shared between her physician, a hospital pharmacist, and a pharmacy pharmacist. When INR values were outside the therapeutic target range, doses were altered according to the physician's instruction. Our approach enables the fine adjustment of warfarin doses according to changes in INR and contributes to the maintenance of the therapeutic target range and safe and appropriate outpatient chemotherapy.
Vasculitis syndrome—diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Okazaki Takahiro , Shinagawa Shoshi , Mikage Hidenori
Published: April 2017

In patients with connective tissue disease, vascular injury induced by primary or secondary vasculitis syndromes can lead to organ dysfunction due to the loss of nutrient supply from the blood. Such vasculitis syndromes can be refractory to treatment and fatal. The nomenclature and the definition of vasculitis syndromes have recently been revised, and clinical practice guidelines for diseases associated with vasculitis syndrome are evolving. The present review provides an overview of vasculitis syndromes from the viewpoint of diagnosis and treatment.
First principles study of organophosphorus additives in boundary lubrication conditions: Effects of hydrocarbon chain length
Authors: Loehlé S. , Righi M. C.
Published: April 2017

We apply first principle calculations to investigate the effects of the hydrocarbon chain length in additive molecules under boundary lubrication conditions. In these conditions, occurring in high‐pressure applications, the thickness of the oil film becomes extremely thin, and the additive molecules remain confined between the two solid surfaces in contact. We consider two types of organophosphorous additives having the same phosphite group but hydrocarbon chains of different lengths. By comparing the molecular behavior under uniaxial stress applied, we elucidate the atomistic mechanisms that control the molecular capacity of maintaining an interfacial spacing under compression and the load‐induced molecular dissociation. This insight is relevant not only for a rational design of lubricant additives but also to provide understanding on the activation mechanisms of tribochemical reactions.
Hepatic artery reconstruction in living donor liver transplantation using surgical loupes: Achieving low rate of hepatic arterial thrombosis in 741 consecutive recipients—tips and tricks to overcome the poor hepatic arterial flow
Authors: Li Ping‐Chun , Thorat Ashok , Jeng Long‐Bin , Yang Horng‐Ren , Li Ming‐Li , Yeh Chun‐Chieh , Chen Te‐Hung , Hsu Shih‐Chao , Poon Kin‐Shing
Published: April 2017

The reconstruction of the hepatic artery (HA) is the most complex step in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) because of the smaller diameter of the artery and the increased risk of HA‐related complications. Because of the smaller diameter of the HA, many centers use a microsurgical technique with interrupted sutures for arterial anastomosis. The aim of our study was to retrospectively investigate the outcomes after HA reconstruction performed under magnifying loupes using the “parachute technique.” From August 1, 2002 to August 31, 2016, LDLT was performed in 766 recipients. HA reconstruction for the initial 25 LDLT surgeries was performed using a microsurgery technique (era 1). From May 2007 until the end date, HA reconstruction was performed in 741 recipients by a “parachute technique” under surgical loupes (era 2). HA reconstruction was performed using surgical loupes in 737 adults (male:female, 526:211) and 4 pediatric patients (male:female, 3:1). The average diameter of the donor graft HA was 2.8 mm (range, 1‐6.5 mm). The most notable factor in this era was the quick HA anastomosis procedure with a mean time of 10 ± 5 minutes (range, 5‐30 minutes). In era 2, 9 (1.21%) patients developed hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT), whereas 2 patients developed nonthrombotic HA‐related complications. Extra‐anatomic HA reconstruction was performed in 14 patients due to either primary HA anastomosis failure or a poor caliber recipient HA. The use of magnifying surgical loupes to perform HA reconstruction is safe, feasible, and yields a low incidence of HA‐related complications. The “parachute technique” for HA reconstruction can achieve a speedy reconstruction without increasing the risk of HAT. Liver Transplantation 23 887–898 2017 AASLD.
The Manifold Varieties of Poly(2‐Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) Hydrogels−IPNs
Authors: Dušková‐Smrčková Miroslava , Sadakbayeva Zhansaya , Steinhart Miloš , Dušek Karel
Published: April 2017

The interpenetrating network structure was used to control mechanical properties of hydrogels based on poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) (first network (A) or second network (B)) and poly(glycerol methacrylate) (PGMA) (network B). In order to understand the structure, mechanical and swelling properties of sequentially made IPN hydrogels, the swollen PHEMA network microstructure and its formation was investigated by means of swelling and SWAXS experiments. Visually clear and microscopically homogenous hydrogel networks based on poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) revealed presence of domains of size 1–10 nm formed during polymerization in the presence of water. The study was carried out to understand conditions under which the hydrophobic interactions are operative and their effect on the microstructure as well as how they change when the double network structure is introduced. The morphologies of network A ranged from homogenous, non‐porous, and optically clear gels, to macroporous gels resulting from phase separation and offering fused‐sphere morphology. A cryogel characterized by large elongated and partially interconnected pores of tens to hundreds micrometers were another object for comparison. In most cases, an increase of tensile moduli and improvement of ultimate tensile properties was achieved. A surprisingly high increase in true strength (by a factor of 10 – 30) was achieved when the macroporous PHEMA network A was reinforced by weak PHEMA or PGMA networks B. All these weakly crosslinked IPN gels were optically clear.
A systematic approach for ranking football players within an integrated DEA‐OWA framework
Authors: Oukil Amar , Govindaluri Srikrishna Madhumohan
Published: April 2017

The ranking of players has always been an important input for key decisions in the football industry. This paper introduces a systematic methodology for ranking football players through objective performance factors within a framework that integrates data envelopment analysis and ordered weighted averaging operators. Players from European Premier League Football clubs are selected and ranked under a decision setting that involves the players' desirable and undesirable performance factors alongside the attitude of the decision maker. The robustness of the proposed methodology is evaluated using different levels of optimism of the decision maker.
Implementation and preliminary effectiveness of a real‐time pain management smartphone app for adolescents with cancer: A multicenter pilot clinical study
Authors: Jibb Lindsay A. , Stevens Bonnie J. , Nathan Paul C. , Seto Emily , Cafazzo Joseph A. , Johnston Donna L. , Hum Vanessa , Stinson Jennifer N.
Published: April 2017

Background

Pain in adolescents with cancer (12–18 years) is common and negatively impacts health‐related quality of life (HRQL). The Pain Squad+ smartphone app, which provides adolescents with real‐time pain self‐management support, was developed to address this issue. This study evaluated the implementation of the app to inform a future randomized controlled trial (RCT) and obtain treatment effect estimates for pain intensity, pain interference, HRQL, and self‐efficacy.

Procedure

A one‐group baseline/poststudy design with 40 adolescents recruited from two pediatric tertiary care centers was used. Baseline questionnaires were completed and adolescents used the app at least twice daily for 28 days, receiving algorithm‐informed self‐management advice depending on their reported pain. A nurse received alerts in response to sustained pain and contacted adolescents to assist in pain care. Poststudy questionnaires were completed. Descriptive analyses, with exploratory inferential testing conducted on health outcome data, were used to address study aims.

Results

Most (40/52; 77%) eligible adolescents participated. Two participants withdrew participation. Intervention fidelity was impacted by technical difficulties (occurring for 15% of participants) and a prolonged time for nurse contact in the event of sustained pain. Adherence to pain reporting was 68.8 ± 38.1%. Outcome measure completion rates were high and the intervention was acceptable to participants. Trends in improvements in pain intensity, pain interference, and HRQL were significant, with effect sizes of 0.23–0.67.

Conclusions

Implementation of Pain Squad+ is feasible and the app appears to improve pain‐related outcomes for adolescents with cancer. A multicenter RCT will be undertaken to examine app effectiveness.
Influence of equal channel angular pressing on the properties of polylactic acid
Authors: Li Hong , Wu Zhemin , Xue Feng , Bai Jing , Chu Chenglin
Published: April 2017

The effects of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) on the microstructures, mechanical, and degradation properties of polylactic acid (PLA) were investigated. The controllable microstructures of PLA can be achieved by a 3D rotary‐die through various combinations of passes and routes (A′ and C′). For A′ route, sample was extruded sequentially through four channels in a plane with compressive or tensile stress alternatively imposed on the two major load bearing surfaces, while for C′ route, sample was extruded only in two vertical channels back and forth with constant compressive or tensile stress imposed on the two major load bearing surfaces. The strong preferential orientation of (200) plane parallelled to the axis direction was formed under the conditions of A′ route for two passes and C′ route for three passes. There was a more uniform distribution in the microhardness for the sample extruded by two passes under C′ route. Meanwhile the sample had higher bending strength after two passes under A′ route, and better facture toughness after three passes under C′ route. The reductions in mass and bending strength of PLA processed by ECAP were more obvious than those of original sample in phosphate‐buffered solution at 37°C for 16 weeks. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Multiple shape memory effects of trans‐1,4‐polyisoprene and low‐density polyethylene blends
Authors: Xia Lin , Xian Jiayu , Geng Jieting , Wang Yan , Shi Feifei , Zhou Zuoyan , Lu Na , Du Aihua , Xin Zhenxiang
Published: April 2017

A novel series of shape memory blends of trans‐1,4‐polyisoprene (TPI) and low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) were prepared using a simple physical blending method. The mechanical, thermal and shape memory properties of the blends were studied and schemes proposed to explain their dual and triple shape memory behaviors. It was found that the microstructures played an important role in the shape memory process. In TPI/LDPE blends, both the TPI crosslinking network and LDPE crystalline regions could work as fixed domains, while crystalline regions of LDPE or TPI could act as reversible domains. The shape memory behaviors were determined by the components of the fixed and reversible domains. When the blend ratio of TPI/LDPE was 50/50, the blends showed excellent dual and triple shape memory properties with both high shape fixity ratio and shape recovery ratio. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
MEASURING SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY TRAINEE SELF‐EFFICACY
Authors: Lockwood Adam B. , Mcclure John , Sealander Karen , Baker Courtney N.
Published: April 2017

There is an ever‐increasing need for school psychology training programs to demonstrate their ability to produce competent practitioners. One method of addressing this need is through the assessment of self‐efficacy. However, little research on self‐efficacy in school psychology exists likely due to the lack of a psychometrically sound measure of this construct. To address this gap, we examined the construct validity of the Huber Inventory of Self‐Efficacy for School Psychologists Research Version (HIS‐SP‐RV), a preexisting measure of self‐efficacy, with a sample of 520 school psychology graduate students. Results suggest that the HIS‐SP‐RV is not a valid measure of trainee self‐efficacy. We then created and conducted a psychometric evaluation of a shortened measure, the Huber Inventory of Trainee Self‐Efficacy (HITS). Results supported the validity of a five‐factor model. Implications for the use of the HITS for program evaluation, to improve trainee competence, and for future research are discussed.
Fabrication of ultrathin TiO2 film with nanogrooves to trap organic dye nanoparticles
Authors: Fushii Sho , Tomioka Akihiro , Matsuba Yoshitaka
Published: April 2017

Ultrathin TiO2 films were formed on the surface of commercially available DVD‐R disks by a two‐step sol–gel process, with nanogrooves on the lower surface transcribed from the DVD‐R disk surface. Water suspension of organic dye nanoparticles (NPs) fabricated by laser processing of dye solution was spread over the TiO2 film, attaining a successful trap of luminescent dye NPs inside the transcribed nanogrooves, which will open up a new way of luminescent NP deposition with a predesigned pattern, in view of printing mass production of static image “digital signage devices.” For this application, all the NPs need to be placed between and in contact with two line electrodes. As a test pattern, we have tried to deposit silver nanowires (AgNWs) in parallel arrangement in the nanogrooves of TiO2 film by the doctor blade method.
Efficient and Controllable Esterification of P(O)‐OH Compounds Using Uronium‐Based Salts
Authors: Xiong Biquan , Hu Chenghong , Gu Jingfang , Yang Changan , Zhang Panliang , Liu Yu , Tang Kewen
Published: April 2017

An efficient and convenient method is developed for the direct esterification of P(O)‐OH compounds with alcohols under room temperature. The protocol makes use of inexpensive uronium‐based salts as coupling reagents and shows good tolerance towards numerous alcohols, giving the corresponding esterification products in good to excellent yield. Phenols are also tolerated in this reaction. It is a simple way to produce a broad spectrum of functionalized phosphinates, phosphonates, and phosphates from basic P(O)‐OH starting materials.
POSS‐Based Nitrogen‐Doped Hierarchically Porous Carbon as Metal‐Free Oxidation Catalyst
Authors: Wang Dengxu , Mejía Esteban
Published: April 2017

Carbon materials have emerged in recent years as alternative metal‐free catalysts for various reactions. Pyrolysis of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)‐based hybrid porous polymers (HPP), results in nitrogen‐doped hierarchically porous carbons (N‐HPC). HPP is easily synthesized from octaphenyl‐POSS and 2,4,6‐trichloro‐1,3,5‐triazine via Friedel‐Crafts reaction and exhibits high porosity with BET surface area (SBET) of 1071 m2/g and pore volume of 0.99 cm3/g. Remarkably, HPP acts as a “dual template” after pyrolysis, bestowing the materials simultaneously with enhanced micro‐ and meso‐porosity. After silica etching, N‐HPC materials possess a hierarchically micro‐ and mesoporous structure with SBET of up to 1536 m2/g and pore volume of 1.00 cm3/g. Moreover, N‐HPC show to be catalytically active in the oxidative coupling of amines to imines using oxygen (1 bar) as the primary oxidant under neat conditions. The remarkable O2‐activation ability of these novel metal‐free materials could be certainly expanded to other transformations.
The Holonic View of Organizations and Firms
Authors: Mella Piero , Gazzola Patrizia
Published: April 2017

In the world of organizations, firms, management and control, in general, a silent conceptual movement has been under way for less than 50 years now, beginning in 1967, when Arthur Koestler formally introduced the concepts of holon, holarchy (a hierarchical structure of holons) and holonic network (a reticular structure of holons). Thirty years later, Ken Wilber tried to generalize the holonic perspective. The new holonic perspective forces us to observe the surrounding universe (at a physical and biological level, and in the real or formal sense) by taking into account the whole/part (holarchies) and the before/after (holonic networks) relationships: any observable unit is at the same time a whole—composed of smaller parts—and part of a larger whole. In order to clarify the holonic vison and the ideas behind holons, holarchies and holonic networks, this study will examine some significant uses of these concepts and, in particular, the main sources of inspiration for those production systems referred to as the holonic manufacturing systems, comparing these to those defined as bionic and fractal manufacturing systems. Some forms of inter‐organizational networks, as well as holonic and virtual organizations, have also been considered. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Solution Annealing on Microstructure Evolution and Pitting Corrosion Resistance of SAF2906 Super Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Liu Xinglong , Zhang Caili , Li Jianchun , Chen Wanli , Zheng Yanxin , Li Huabing , Han Peide
Published: April 2017

The effect of solution annealing on the microstructure evolution and pitting corrosion resistance of SAF2906 super duplex stainless steel has been investigated. The samples are solution treated from 850 to 1100 °C for 30 min and then water quenched to room temperature. The results show that static recrystallization preferentially occurs within the δ ferrite phase at 900 °C, and the static recrystallization of the ferrite and austenite phases is completed at 1050 °C. When samples aere exposed to higher temperatures, the grain of the ferrite and austenite does not seem to coarsen. Inappropriate annealing at temperatures below 1050 °C inevitably lead to many secondary phases, which are characterized by transmission electron microscopy to be Cr2N and the σ phase. With an increase in the solution temperature, the σ phase dissolved into the matrix before Cr2N, and as the temperature reached 1050 °C, no secondary phases can be observed by scanning electron microscopy. The pitting corrosion resistance of the samples after solution annealing is determined by anodic polarization tests. The electrochemical results show that the σ phase and Cr2N decreased the pitting corrosion resistance and that the σ phase had a more significant effect on the corrosion resistance compared with Cr2N.
‘And’ and ‘But’: A Note
Authors: Kripke Saul A. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2017

Most philosophers seem to be under a misleading impression about the difference between ‘and’ and ‘but’. They hold that they are truth-functional equivalents but that ‘but’ adds a Gricean ‘conventional implicature’ to ‘and’. Frege thought that the implicature attached to ‘but’ was that the second clause is unlikely given the first; others have simply said they express a contrast between the two. Though the second formulation may seem more general, in practice writers seem to agree with Frege’s idea. The present note will argue against this conventional view. Indeed, ‘and’ and ‘but’ may both convey conflicting implicatures; and the traditional characterization of the implicature of ‘but’ is outright mistaken, or at least misleading.
Acting on Essentially Comparative Goodness
Authors: Cusbert John ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2017

Temkin’s Essentially Comparative View of moral ideals says that goodness is comparison set dependent: the goodness of an outcome is relativized to a set of outcomes. This view does not entail that betterness is intransitive; indeed, it provides the resources for maintaining transitivity. However, it does entail that the structure of goodness ismore complex than is standardly supposed. It thereby demands a modification of the standard connection between goodness and decision. I set out this challenge, canvas some options, and show that Temkin vacillates between two of them.
Screening of commercial enzymes for poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) hydrolysis and synergy studies on different substrate sources
Authors: de Castro Aline Machado , Carniel Adriano , Nicomedes Junior José , da Conceição Gomes Absai , Valoni Érika
Published: April 2017

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is one of the most consumed plastics in the world. The development of efficient technologies for its depolymerization for monomers reuse is highly encouraged, since current recycling rates are still very low. In this study, 16 commercial lipases and cutinases were evaluated for their abilities to catalyze the hydrolysis of two PET samples. Humicola insolens cutinase showed the best performance and was then used in reactions on other PET sources, solely or in combination with the efficient mono(hydroxyethyl terephthalate)-converting lipase from Candida antarctica. Synergy degrees of the final titers of up to 2.2 (i.e., more than double of the concentration when both enzymes were used, as compared to their use alone) were found, with increased terephthalic acid formation rates, reaching a maximum of 59,989 µmol/L (9.36 g/L). These findings open up new possibilities for the conversion of post-consumer PET packages into their minimal monomers, which can be used as drop in at existing industrial facilities.
Ultrasonography of the Transverse Movement and Deformation of the Median Nerve and Its Relationships With Electrophysiological Severity in the Early Stages of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Park Donghwi
Published: April 2017

Background

To date, there have been conflicting suggestions regarding the initial pathogenesis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). It has been characterized as either inflammation of the median nerve caused by compression or noninflammatory fibrosis of the subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT).

Objective

To investigate the initial pathogenesis of CTS, we compared the deformation and displacement of the median nerve in accordance with the electrophysiological severity between patients with CTS (via the Bland scale) and healthy controls.

Design

Cross‐sectional, case‐control study.

Setting

General teaching hospital, rehabilitation unit.

Patients

Thirteen hands of 10 healthy participants and 39 hands of 27 patients with CTS were recruited and classified into 4 groups (stage 0−3) according to the severity of the electrodiagnostic test results.

Methods

Ultrasound images of the median nerve in response to the wrist and finger motions were analyzed.

Main Outcome Measure

We measured the deformation of the median nerve (the maximal change values of the median nerve area, and aspect ratio of the minimum‐enclosing rectangle [MER]) and movement of the median nerve (the maximal change value of the median nerve displacement) in response to the motions of wrists and finger. The maximal change value of the median nerve displacement was normalized with respect to the width of the wrist. Moreover, the maximal change values of the median nerve area, and the aspect ratio of the MER, were also normalized to the median nerve area and the aspect ratio of the MER in wrist‐neutral position with finger extension.

Result

CTS patients in stage 3 showed a significantly lower normalized maximal change of the median nerve movement compared with CTS patients in stages 0, 1, and 2 (P <.001). Regarding the deformation of the median nerve, however, there were statistically significant differences among all groups (area, P < .001; MER, P <.001). According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, the normalized maximal change of the aspect ratio of the MER is a meaningful parameter in diagnosing the initial stage of CTS (P < .01).

Conclusion

These results showed that the deformation of the median nerve may be associated with the initial pathogenesis; however, further studies are necessary to validate the findings of this study.

Level of Evidence

III
Spontaneous Collective Action: Peripheral Mobilization During the Arab Spring
Authors: STEINERT-THRELKELD ZACHARY C.
Published: April 2017

Who is responsible for protest mobilization? Models of disease and information diffusion suggest that those central to a social network (the core) should have a greater ability to mobilize others than those who are less well-connected. To the contrary, this article argues that those not central to a network (the periphery) can generate collective action, especially in the context of large-scale protests in authoritarian regimes. To show that those in the core of a social network have no effect on levels of protest, this article develops a dataset of daily protests across 16 countries in the Middle East and North Africa over 14 months from 2010 through 2011. It combines that dataset with geocoded, individual-level communication from the same period and measures the number of connections of each person. Those on the periphery are shown to be responsible for changing levels of protest, with some evidence suggesting that the core’s mobilization efforts lead to fewer protests. These results have implications for a wide range of social choices that rely on interdependent decision making.
What side effects are problematic for patients prescribed antipsychotic medication? The Maudsley Side Effects (MSE) measure for antipsychotic medication
Authors: Wykes T. , Evans J. , Paton C. , Barnes T. R. E. , Taylor D. , Bentall R. , Dalton B. , Ruffell T. , Rose D. , Vitoratou S.
Published: April 2017

Background

Capturing service users’ perspectives can highlight additional and different concerns to those of clinicians, but there are no up to date, self-report psychometrically sound measures of side effects of antipsychotic medications.

Aim

To develop a psychometrically sound measure to identify antipsychotic side effects important to service users, the Maudsley Side Effects (MSE) measure.

Method

An initial item bank was subjected to a Delphi exercise (n = 9) with psychiatrists and pharmacists, followed by service user focus groups and expert panels (n = 15) to determine item relevance and language. Feasibility and comprehensive psychometric properties were established in two samples (N43 and N50). We investigated whether we could predict the three most important side effects for individuals from their frequency, severity and life impact.

Results

MSE is a 53-item measure with good reliability and validity. Poorer mental and physical health, but not psychotic symptoms, was related to side-effect burden. Seventy-nine percent of items were chosen as one of the three most important effects. Severity, impact and distress only predicted ‘putting on weight’ which was more distressing, more severe and had more life impact in those for whom it was most important.

Conclusions

MSE is a self-report questionnaire that identifies reliably the side-effect burden as experienced by patients. Identifying key side effects important to patients can act as a starting point for joint decision making on the type and the dose of medication.
Subject To Punishment: Julie Bovasso'sAngelo's Weddingand the Politics of the Unproduced
Authors: Miller Hillary
Published: April 2017

The preview performance of Julie Bovasso’sAngelo's Weddingon 11 May 1985 imploded after an altercation between the playwright and the staff of Marshall Mason's Off-Broadway Circle Repertory. Bovasso, then almost fifty-five years old, attended the performance against the explicit wishes of the production team; the rehearsal period had been fraught. Suspecting unauthorized cuts, Bovasso took a seat in the audience, but then, midshow, confronted the backstage crew and demanded the chance to give the actors notes. The staff refused. At the start of the third act, Bovasso changed tactics: she alighted the stage and instructed the audience to leave the theatre. Members of the crew blocked her access to the actors, leading to a physical altercation, a 911 call, and, eventually, her forced eviction from the theatre.
Corporeal Eloquence and Sensate Cognition: G. E. Lessing, Acting Theory, and Properly Feeling Bodies in Eighteenth-Century Germany
Authors: Baldyga Natalya
Published: April 2017

Most know Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–81) for his dramatic theory, specifically that which is found in his periodical the Hamburg Dramaturgy (1767–69), a collection of 101 essays that has since earned Lessing the moniker of “the first dramaturg.” Many are also familiar with Lessing's major plays, Miss Sara Sampson (1755), Minna von Barnhelm (1767), Emilia Galotti (1772), and Nathan the Wise (1779). Fewer, however, may be familiar with his acting theory and his long association with actors, an association that began in his college years and which so disturbed Lessing's father that the respectable pastor lured the wayward student home by falsely claiming that Lessing's mother was ill. During his time as a university student in Leipzig, Lessing translated plays for the troupe of Karoline Neuber (1697–1760) and socialized with the company's actors; over time he would continue to accrue significant firsthand knowledge of actors and the art of acting, not only through his frequent theatregoing but also through the coaching of his own plays. Lessing's familiarity with actors and acting informs both his performance and dramatic theory, including that which one finds in the Hamburg Dramaturgy; in Anglophone studies of Lessing's journal, however, one infrequently sees Lessing's dramatic theory placed in conversation with his acting theory, reception theory, or performance reviews. Due to the short and contentious life of the Hamburg National Theatre, the experimental theatre project to which the Hamburg Dramaturgy was ostensibly attached, historical narratives more often focus on Lessing's strained relations with the actors of the Hamburg acting company. If one views Lessing's writing about performance solely in terms of a frustrated critic's attempts to rein in “unruly” actors, however, one loses sight of how Lessing's acting theory supports his wider ideas about the form and function of theatre and about how the Hamburg Dramaturgy and the Hamburg theatre experiment might function as a force for social change.
The Sublime and French Seventeenth-Century Theories of the Spectacle: Toward an Aesthetic Approach to Performance
Authors: van Oostveldt Bram , Bussels Stijn
Published: April 2017

Theatre scholars and historians assume too easily that theoretical reflection on the performative qualities of the theatre began only in the eighteenth century. In mid-eighteenth century France, writers and philosophers such as Denis Diderot, Jean le Rond D'Alembert, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Antoine-François Riccoboni, or Jean-Georges Noverre (to name but a few) showed a passionate interest in the aesthetics and the morality of performance practices in dramatic theatre, music theatre, or dance. Compared to this rich diversity of ideas in the eighteenth century, seventeenth-century French writings on theatre and the performing arts seem, at first sight, far less interesting or daring. However, this is merely a modern perception. Our idea ofle théâtre classiqueis still rather reductionist, and often limited to the theatrical canon of Pierre Corneille, Jean Racine, and Molière. It affords a view of the performing arts that is dominated by tragedy and comedy and that, firmly embedded within a neo-Aristotelian poetics, privileges dramatic concerns above performative interests.
Remains: Performance at the Edge of Empire
Authors: Johnson Odai
Published: April 2017

So wrote the Irish American poet John Montague of the great loss of culture under Great Britain's empire, a violent overmapping of identity whose poignant erasure was itself richly preserved in plays, poems, and songs. Nothing of Ireland's past, it seems, was remembered quite so vigorously as its erasure. And because that disappearance has become such a familiar text of loss, in poem, play, and song, I want to evoke that archive of absence for this study of a similar erasure, centuries earlier—not the Irish under English of Brian Friel'sTranslations,but the Gallic Celts under Rome; notThe Dying Gaulwhose images of self-slaughter ennobled their extirpation, but those who survived the conquest, the surrendered, widows and children of the slaughtered who grew that grafted tongue, the twice-born who learned to live again as refugees under Roman rule, and adopt foreign ways—to tease out what little remains there are of the theatre's role in that erasure, resistance, and that monumental realignment of identity called “Romanizing.”
Adrenergic-mediated loss of splenic marginal zone B cells contributes to infection susceptibility after stroke
Authors: McCulloch Laura , Smith Craig J. , McColl Barry W.
Published: April 2017

Infection is a major complication of acute stroke and causes increased mortality and morbidity; however, current interventions do not prevent infection and improve clinical outcome in stroke patients. The mechanisms that underlie susceptibility to infection in these patients are unclear. Splenic marginal zone (MZ) B cells are innate-like lymphocytes that provide early defence against bacterial infection. Here we show experimental stroke in mice induces a marked loss of MZ B cells, deficiencies in capturing blood-borne antigen and suppression of circulating IgM. These deficits are accompanied by spontaneous bacterial lung infection. IgM levels are similarly suppressed in stroke patients. β-adrenergic receptor antagonism after experimental stroke prevents loss of splenic MZ B cells, preserves IgM levels, and reduces bacterial burden. These findings suggest that adrenergic-mediated loss of MZ B cells contributes to the infection-prone state after stroke and identify systemic B-cell disruption as a target for therapeutic manipulation.
Genomic landscape of high-grade meningiomas
Authors: Bi Wenya Linda , Greenwald Noah F. , Abedalthagafi Malak , Wala Jeremiah , Gibson Will J. , Agarwalla Pankaj K. , Horowitz Peleg , Schumacher Steven E. , Esaulova Ekaterina , Mei Yu , Chevalier Aaron , A. Ducar Matthew , Thorner Aaron R. , van Hummelen Paul , O. Stemmer-Rachamimov Anat , Artyomov Maksym , Al-Mefty Ossama , Dunn Gavin P. , Santagata Sandro , Dunn Ian F. , Beroukhim Rameen
Published: April 2017

High-grade meningiomas frequently recur and are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. To determine the factors that promote the development and evolution of these tumors, we analyzed the genomes of 134 high-grade meningiomas and compared this information with data from 595 previously published meningiomas. High-grade meningiomas had a higher mutation burden than low-grade meningiomas but did not harbor any significantly mutated genes aside from NF2. High-grade meningiomas also possessed significantly elevated rates of chromosomal gains and losses, especially among tumors with monosomy 22. Meningiomas previously treated with adjuvant radiation had significantly more copy number alterations than radiation-induced or radiation-naïve meningiomas. Across serial recurrences, genomic disruption preceded the emergence of nearly all mutations, remained largely uniform across time, and when present in low-grade meningiomas correlated with subsequent progression to a higher grade. In contrast to the largely stable copy number alterations, mutations were strikingly heterogeneous across tumor recurrences, likely due to extensive geographic heterogeneity in the primary tumor. While high-grade meningiomas harbored significantly fewer overtly targetable alterations than low-grade meningiomas, they contained numerous mutations that are predicted to be neoantigens, suggesting that immunologic targeting may be of therapeutic value.
Imaging Parkinson’s disease below the neck
Authors: Borghammer Per , Knudsen Karoline , Fedorova Tatyana D. , Brooks David J.
Published: April 2017

Parkinson’s disease is a systemic disorder with widespread and early α-synuclein pathology in the autonomic and enteric nervous systems, which is present throughout the gastrointestinal canal prior to diagnosis. Gastrointestinal and genitourinary autonomic symptoms often predate clinical diagnosis by several years. It has been hypothesized that progressive α-synuclein aggregation is initiated in hyperbranched, non-myelinated neuron terminals, and may subsequently spread via retrograde axonal transport. This would explain why autonomic nerves are so prone to formation of α-synuclein pathology. However, the hypothesis remains unproven and in vivo imaging methods of peripheral organs may be essential to study this important research field. The loss of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve terminal function in Parkinson’s disease has been demonstrated using radiotracers such as 123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidin, 18F-dopamine, and 11C-donepezil. Other radiotracer and radiological imaging methods have shown highly prevalent dysfunction of pharyngeal and esophageal motility, gastric emptying, colonic transit time, and anorectal function. Here, we summarize the methodology and main findings of radio-isotope and radiological modalities for imaging peripheral pathology in Parkinson’s disease.
Lattice dynamics and elasticity for ε-plutonium
Authors: Söderlind Per
Published: April 2017

Lattice dynamics and elasticity for the high-temperature ε phase (body-centered cubic; bcc) of plutonium is predicted utilizing first-principles electronic structure coupled with a self-consistent phonon method that takes phonon-phonon interaction and strong anharmonicity into account. These predictions establish the first sensible lattice-dynamics and elasticity data on ε-Pu. The atomic forces required for the phonon scheme are highly accurate and derived from the total energies obtained from relativistic and parameter-free density-functional theory. The results appear reasonable but no data exist to compare with except those from dynamical mean-field theory that suggest ε-plutonium is mechanically unstable. Fundamental knowledge and understanding of the high-temperature bcc phase, that is generally present in all actinide metals before melting, is critically important for a proper interpretation of the phase diagram as well as practical modeling of high-temperature properties.
A Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici secreted protein activates plant immunity at the cell surface
Authors: Dagvadorj Bayantes , Ozketen Ahmet Caglar , Andac Ayse , Duggan Cian , Bozkurt Tolga Osman , Akkaya Mahinur S.
Published: April 2017

Pathogens secrete effector proteins to suppress host immunity, mediate nutrient uptake and subsequently enable parasitism. However, on non-adapted hosts, effectors can be detected as non-self by host immune receptors and activate non-host immunity. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms of effector triggered non-host resistance remain unknown. Here, we report that a small cysteine-rich protein PstSCR1 from the wheat rust pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) activates immunity in the non-host solanaceous model plant Nicotiana benthamiana. PstSCR1 homologs were found to be conserved in Pst, and in its closest relatives, Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici and Puccinia triticina. When PstSCR1 was expressed in N. benthamiana with its signal peptide, it provoked the plant immune system, whereas no stimulation was observed when it was expressed without its signal peptide. PstSCR1 expression in N. benthamiana significantly reduced infection capacity of the oomycete pathogens. Moreover, apoplast-targeted PstSCR1 triggered plant cell death in a dose dependent manner. However, in Brassinosteroid insensitive 1-Associated Kinase 1 (SERK3/BAK1) silenced N. benthamiana, cell death was remarkably decreased. Finally, purified PstSCR1 protein activated defence related gene expression in N. benthamiana. Our results show that a Pst-secreted protein, PstSCR1 can activate surface mediated immunity in non-adapted hosts and contribute to non-host resistance.