bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Alternatives’ to austerity: A critique of financialized infrastructure in India and beyond
Authors: Bear Laura
Published: October 2017

Current infrastructure development across the globe is described as an ‘alternative’ to austerity and as a nationalist riposte to globalization. From the UK to India to the US, it is represented as a way of reviving the fortunes of the ‘common man’ and a dispossessed, male working class. This article, based on research in the waterscape of the Hooghly River in India and World Bank initiatives, argues that current policies of financialized infrastructure are a false alternative to austerity and are a continuation of a longer historical process. These policies have emerged from the gradual movement of fiscal control from governments to central banks, commercial banks and financial markets. This began with the financialization of sovereign debt in the 1980s–90s, which led to fiscal constraint within the public sector. Such policies eroded the material forms of state‐provided public works and led to private sector accumulation through public‐private partnerships and financial market speculation. Now governments are turning to commercial banks and financial markets to solve the problem of infrastructures starved of capital, even though it is the governance of the economy through these networks that has generated the current ‘infrastructure deficit’. Anthropologists now need to take part in public debates by revealing the financial predation on infrastructures and arguing for a renaming of them as citizens' commons for the public good. Ultimately, it is through a combination of ethnographies of austerity and analyses of the political economy of finance that anthropologists can challenge current inequalities.
The green economy as a sustainable alternative?
Authors: Knight Daniel M.
Published: October 2017

This article explores the green economy as a sustainable alternative to austerity in Greece. The author argues that the movement towards the green economy has been hijacked by multinational corporations taking advantage of an austerity‐era policy that encourages a repetition of the neoliberal model of privatization, short‐term accumulation, rentier agreements and resource extraction. This is contrary to views that cast ‘crisis’ as an incubator of economic strategies that may feed green ecological transformations of the economy leading, ultimately, to sustainable growth. Current configurations of advanced capitalist power enable and promote injurious ‘green grabbing’, in part by leveraging the fantasy of a green economy as a solution to the fiscal crisis. As an alternative to austerity, the green economy requires further uncoupling from neoliberal business opportunism to allow natural capital to be harnessed as an economic asset for a sustainable long‐term public good.
The use of Singapore flaps for vaginal reconstruction in women with vaginal stenosis with obstetric fistula: a surgical technique
Authors: Pope RJ , Brown RH , Chipungu E , Hollier LH , Wilkinson JP
Published: October 2017

Gynecologic and plastic surgeons collaborate to improve vaginal reconstruction for women with vaginal stenosis and obstetric fistula. As these cases occur typically in low‐resource settings, the Singapore flap is a useful technique given its reliability, safety, ease of dissection, and minimal need for additional supplies. The fasciocutaneous flap maintains cutaneous innervation and vasculature and does not require stenting. The surgical collaboration has made it possible to provide functional vaginal reconstruction as a part of the overall care of obstetric fistula patients. The technique shows promise for improving sexual function for women with obstetric fistula and may also enhance healing.

Tweetable abstract

Gynecologic & plastic surgeons collaborate to improve vaginal reconstruction for women with obstetric fistula.
TOWARD A BIFURCATED THEORY OF EMOTIONAL DETERRENCE
Authors: PICKETT JUSTIN T. , ROCHE SEAN PATRICK , POGARSKY GREG
Published: October 2017

Since Hobbes (1957 [1651] and Beccaria (1963 [1764]), scholars have theorized that the emotion of fear is critical for deterrence. Nevertheless, contemporary deterrence researchers have mostly overlooked the distinction between perceived sanction risk and fear of apprehension. Whereas perceived risk is a cognitive judgment, fear involves visceral feelings of anxiety or dread. Equally important, a theory explicating the influence of deterrence on both criminal propensity and situational offending has remained elusive. We develop a theoretical model in which perceived risk and fear are distinguished at both the general and situational levels. We test this theoretical model with data from a set of survey‐based experiments conducted in 2016 with a nationwide sample of adults (N = 965). We find that perceived risk and fear are empirically distinct and that perceived risk is positively related to fear at both the general and situational levels. Certain background and situational factors have indirect effects through perceived risk on fear. In turn, perceived risk has indirect effects through fear on both criminal propensity and situational intentions to offend. Fear's inclusion increases explanatory power for both criminal propensity and situational offending intentions. Fear is a stronger predictor than either self‐control or prior offending of situational intentions to offend.
Fostering a culture of research within a clinical radiation oncology department
Authors: Hanlon Mary‐Claire , Ludbrook Joanna , Jovanovic Karen , Greer Peter , Martin Jarad Marcus
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Support and investment in increasing a research‐active culture in clinical practice needs to be translated at the department and hospital levels as well as regional, state and national levels. We aimed to improve the research culture of our department, to enable more clinical staff to become more research competent and research active.

Methods

We describe and discuss the appointment of a Director of Research and a Research Coordinator into our already‐research‐active department and the interactions at the research–clinical interface. By identifying barriers and instituting enablers which ameliorate their effect, we explore how a clinical department can utilize the resources already available with the goal of developing a more confident and competent clinician‐researcher culture as measured by a range of research metrics.

Results

We observed an improved research culture within our department. Our department's improved research culture was reflected by increased numbers of peer‐reviewed publications (of 30%), research students/supervisions (of 60%) and engagement of external speakers. We also observed double the number of first‐authored peer‐reviewed articles and a growth in conference presentations, posters and speaker invitations/awards. In the majority of the research performance metrics tracked, there was a steady improvement noted over the four years monitored.

Conclusions

By responding to the barriers of staff (such as time, expertise and ideas) with structural and personal enablers, as well as funded resources, it is possible to develop research capacity and confidence in a clinical setting.
Utilizing 18F‐fluoroethyl‐l‐tyrosine positron emission tomography in high grade glioma for radiation treatment planning in patients with contraindications to MRI
Authors: Jaymanne Dasantha T , Kaushal Sneha , Chan David , Schembri Geoff , Brazier David , Bailey Dale , Wheeler Helen , Back Michael
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Patients with high grade glioma (HGG) and contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are dependent on contrast‐enhanced computerized tomography (CT) scan imaging for radiation therapy (RT) target volume delineation. This study reviews the experience with the utilization of 18F‐fluoroethyl‐l‐tyrosine positron emission tomography (FET‐PET) to define residual disease post craniotomy and optimize RT planning.

Methods

Patients with HGG and a contraindication to MRI managed with radiation therapy between 2007 and 2015 were identified. RT target volumes including gross tumour volume (GTV) defined by CT‐alone and the biological target volume (BTV) defined by PET‐CT were recorded. Clinical target volumes (CTV) were created from the GTV and BTV respectively using standard protocol volume expansion. The expanded BTV was termed clinical target volume biological (CTV‐B). Union and intersection between CTV and CTV‐B, conformity index, volumetric parameters and individual patient outcomes were analysed.

Results

Six patients fit study criteria. There was a mean increase in CTV‐B from CTV by 31.6% with a conformity index of 0.78. Two out of six patients had FET‐PET avid disease outside the constructed PTV when delineated by CT‐alone. One patient with CT‐only planning had a new contrast‐enhancing mass within 1 month of completing RT, suggesting potential geographical miss.

Conclusion

Patients with contraindication to MRI the addition of FET‐PET can improve target volume delineation for RT Planning.
Case report of 18F–fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography‐computed tomography imaging of a patient with multiple endocrine gland metastases from small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhao Hongguang , Lin Chenghe , Jiao Benzheng , Sa Ri , Hou Sen , Xu Songbai
Published: October 2017

Synchronous multiple endocrine gland metastasis caused by small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is rare. A patient was investigated for primary cancer because of suspected brain metastasis on computed tomography (CT). Baseline 18F–fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)‐CT was positive in the lung and multiple endocrine glands (right thyroid, right breast, pancreatic body, right adrenal gland, and left ovary). Histopathology confirmed small cell lung cancer. The patient's symptoms were alleviated after chemotherapy and brain radiotherapy. Follow‐up PET‐CT revealed that some of the lesions had disappeared and some had reduced in size. This rare case of multiple endocrine gland metastases from SCLC suggests that whole body PET‐CT is a useful tool to detect rare/asymptomatic metastases.
Contributors to the substantial variation in on‐treatment testosterone levels in men receiving transdermal testosterone gels in randomized trials
Authors: Bhasin S. , Travison T. G. , O'Brien L. , MacKrell J. , Krishnan V. , Ouyang H. , Pencina K. , Basaria S.
Published: October 2017

There is substantial inter‐individual variability in serum testosterone levels in hypogonadal men treated with testosterone gels. We aimed to elucidate participant‐level factors that contribute to inter‐individual variability in testosterone levels during testosterone therapy. An exploratory aim was to determine whether polymorphisms in genes encoding testosterone‐metabolizing enzymes could explain the variation in on‐treatment testosterone concentrations in men who were randomized to testosterone arm in TOM Trial. We used data from three randomized trials that used 1% transdermal testosterone gels and had testosterone levels measured 2–4 weeks after randomization for dose adjustment: Testosterone in Older Men with Mobility Limitation (TOM), Effects of Testosterone on Pain Perception (TAP), and Effects of Testosterone on Atherosclerosis Progression (TEAAM). Forty‐seven percent, 38%, and 9% of participants in TAP, TEAAM, and TOM trials, respectively, failed to raise testosterone levels >400 ng/dL; 6, 8, and 30% of participants had on‐treatment testosterone levels >1000 ng/dL. Even after dose adjustment, there was substantial variation in on‐treatment levels at subsequent study visits. Baseline characteristics (age, height, weight, baseline testosterone, SHBG, hematocrit, and creatinine) accounted for only a small fraction of the variance (<8%). Polymorphisms in SHBG and AKR1C3 genes were suggestively associated with on‐treatment testosterone levels. To conclude, baseline participant characteristics account for only a small fraction of the variance in on‐treatment testosterone levels investigated. Multiple dose titrations are needed to maintain on‐treatment testosterone levels in the target range. The role of SHBG and AKR3C1 polymorphisms as contributors to variations in on‐treatment testosterone levels should be investigated.
Pancreatoduodenectomy in a public versus private teaching hospital is comparable with some minor variations
Authors: Chua Terence C. , Mittal Anubhav , Nahm Chris , Hugh Thomas J. , Arena Jenny , Gill Anthony J. , Samra Jaswinder S.
Published: October 2017

Background

The impact of the public and private hospital systems on major abdominal operations that are demanding on clinical resources, such as pancreatic surgery, has not been explored in an Australian setting. This study examines the perioperative outcome of patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) at a major public and private hospital.

Methods

Patients undergoing PD between January 2004 and October 2015 were classified based on their health insurance status and location of where the surgery was performed. Clinical variables relating to perioperative outcome were retrieved and compared using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Four hundred and twenty patients underwent PD of whom 232 patients (55%) were operated on in the private hospital. Overall, there was no difference in morbidity and mortality in the public versus the private hospital. However, there were variations in public versus private hospital, this included longer duration of surgery (443 min versus 372 min; P < 0.001), increased estimated blood loss (683 mL versus 506 mL; P < 0.001) and more patients requiring perioperative blood transfusion (25% versus 13%; P = 0.001). Of the 10 complications compared, post‐operative bleeding was higher in the private hospital (11% versus 5%; P = 0.051) and intra‐abdominal collections were more common in the public hospital (11% versus 5%; P = 0.028). Independent predictive factors for major complications were American Society of Anesthesiologists score (odds ratio (OR) = 1.91; P = 0.050), patients requiring additional visceral resection (OR = 3.36; P = 0.014) and post‐operative transfusion (OR = 3.37; P < 0.001). The hospital type (public/private) was not associated with perioperative outcome.

Conclusion

Comparable perioperative outcomes were observed between patients undergoing PD in a high‐volume specialized unit in both the public and private hospital systems.
Diffuse gliomas with FGFR3‐TACC3 fusion have characteristic histopathological and molecular features
Authors: Bielle Franck , Di Stefano Anna‐Luisa , Meyronet David , Picca Alberto , Villa Chiara , Bernier Michèle , Schmitt Yohann , Giry Marine , Rousseau Audrey , Figarella‐Branger Dominique , Maurage Claude‐Alain , Uro‐Coste Emmanuelle , Lasorella Anna , Iavarone Antonio , Sanson Marc , Mokhtari Karima
Published: October 2017

Adult glioblastomas, IDH‐wildtype represent a heterogeneous group of diseases. They are resistant to conventional treatment by concomitant radiochemotherapy and carry a dismal prognosis. The discovery of oncogenic gene fusions in these tumors has led to prospective targeted treatments, but identification of these rare alterations in practice is challenging. Here, we report a series of 30 adult diffuse gliomas with an in frame FGFR3‐TACC3 oncogenic fusion (n = 27 WHO grade IV and n = 3 WHO grade II) as well as their histological and molecular features. We observed recurrent morphological features (monomorphous ovoid nuclei, nuclear palisading and thin parallel cytoplasmic processes, endocrinoid network of thin capillaries) associated with frequent microcalcifications and desmoplasia. We report a constant immunoreactivity for FGFR3, which is a valuable method for screening for the FGFR3‐TACC3 fusion with 100% sensitivity and 92% specificity. We confirmed the associated molecular features (typical genetic alterations of glioblastoma, except the absence of EGFR amplification, and an increased frequency of CDK4 and MDM2 amplifications). FGFR3 immunopositivity is a valuable tool to identify gliomas that are likely to harbor the FGFR3‐TACC3 fusion for inclusion in targeted therapeutic trials.
Sweet's syndrome: diagnostic criteria revisited
Authors: Nofal Ahmad , Abdelmaksoud Ayman , Amer Hala , Nofal Eman , Yosef Ayman , Gharib Khaled , Albalat Waleed , Eldesouky Fatma , Ebrahim Howyda M. , Abdelshafy Ahmed Said , Fayed Hala
Published: October 2017

The diagnosis of Sweet's syndrome (SS) is based on a set of criteria that requires the presence of two major and at least two minor criteria. In some cases, however, the diagnosis is not as straightforward due to the absence of certain criteria. The objective of the present study was to review the clinical, histopathological, and laboratory features of the current diagnostic criteria for SS, and to evaluate their validity in the cases reported in the literature as well as in 40 patients treated at our institution. Our comprehensive review of the current criteria for SS reveals that the two major criteria have been consistently present in all cases – including ours – since the first description of SS in 1964. With regard to the minor criteria, on the other hand, there has been marked variability between different studies, and many cases failed to fulfill the requirement of showing two minor criteria. In order to simplify the diagnosis, avoid misdiagnosis, and allow for prompt treatment, we propose two sets of revised diagnostic criteria for SS. The first set comprises constant clinical and histopathological features that must be present and are by themselves sufficient for the diagnosis of SS to be established. The second set includes variable features whose absence does not warrant ruling out SS.
Comparison of two blood sampling techniques for the determination of coagulation parameters in the horse: Jugular venipuncture and indwelling intravenous catheter
Authors: Mackenzie C. J. , McGowan C. M. , Pinchbeck G. , Carslake H. B.
Published: October 2017

Background

Evaluation of coagulation status is an important component of critical care. Ongoing monitoring of coagulation status in hospitalised horses has previously been via serial venipuncture due to concerns that sampling directly from the intravenous catheter (IVC) may alter the accuracy of the results. Adverse effects such as patient anxiety and trauma to the sampled vessel could be avoided by the use of an indwellingIVCfor repeat blood sampling.

Objectives

To compare coagulation parameters from blood obtained by jugular venipuncture withIVCsampling in critically ill horses.

Study design

Prospective observational study.

Methods

A single set of paired blood samples were obtained from horses (n = 55) admitted to an intensive care unit by direct jugular venipuncture and, following removal of a presample, via an indwellingIVC. The following coagulation parameters were measured on venipuncture andIVCsamples: whole blood prothrombin time (PT), fresh plasmaPTand activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and stored plasma antithrombin activity (AT) and fibrinogen concentration. D‐dimer concentration was also measured in some horses (n = 22). Comparison of venipuncture andIVCresults was performed using Lin's concordance correlation coefficient. Agreement between paired results was assessed using Bland Altman analysis.

Results

Correlation was substantial and agreement was good between sample methods for all parameters exceptATand D‐dimers.

Main limitations

Each coagulation parameter was tested using only one assay. Sampling was limited to a convenience sample and timing of sample collection was not standardised in relation to when the catheter was flushed with heparinised saline.

Conclusions

With the exception ofATand D‐dimers, coagulation parameters measured on blood samples obtained via anIVChave clinically equivalent values to those obtained by jugular venipuncture.
Glass ceramics sealants for SOFC interconnects based on a high chromium sinter alloy
Authors: Schilm Jochen , Rost Axel , Kusnezoff Mihails , Megel Stefan , Michaelis Alexander
Published: October 2017

The operation of solid oxide fuel cells requires gas tight and stable sealing materials. Glass ceramic materials have been established to seal different stack designs and can be optimized to match the requirements of components and joining conditions. It is known that glass‐based sealants are sensitive to the formation of undesired chromia species in contact with ferritic steels used as interconnects. Their formation depends on the earth alkaline type and content in the glass as well as the chromium content of the interconnect. A robust interconnect material is the chromium‐based sinter alloy CFY with >93 wt.% chromium what in turn enforces the formation of chromia phases. SOFC stacks with chromium‐based interconnects and electrolyte supported cells with 10SCSZ electrolyte are candidates for SOFC systems with high efficiency in a wide power range. This study presents results on the development of sealing glasses adapted for the CFY by optimizing the glass components BaO, CaO, SiO2, and Al2O3. Depending properties like crystallization behavior, thermal expansion, adhesion and reactivity in contact with CFY have been regarded. The glass has been tested under operating conditions of SOFC (dual atmosphere, electric potentials) in samples as well as in real stacks. It has been shown that optimized glass compositions, especially regarding a limited BaO content combine a good joining behavior and minimized BaCrO4 formation in contact with the CFY alloy.
Comparing the performance of three panels rules of blood smear review criteria on an Italian multicenter evaluation
Authors: Pipitone S. , Germagnoli L. , Da Rin G. , Di Fabio A. , Fanelli A. , Fiorini F. , Francione S. , Marini A. , Papa A. , Benegiamo A. , Lari T. , Siviero F. , Lorubbio M. , Borin M. , Seghezzi M. , Ciardelli M. L. , Dima F. , Gioia M. , Buoro S.
Published: October 2017

Background

The aims of this study were to compare the diagnostic accuracy of blood smear review criteria, by means of three different panel rules, those proposed by: the International Consensus Group for Hematology [41‐ICGH rules], the Italian Survey [IS rules] and the Working Group on Hematology‐SIBioC (WGH) consensus rules (WGH rules).

Methods

This study is based on 2707 peripheral blood (PB) samples referred for routine hematological testing to the WGH‐associated laboratories displaced all over the Italian territory. The PB samples were processed on seven different hematology analyzers (HAs): Advia 2120i, XE‐2100, BC‐6800, ABX Pentra, XN‐1000, Cell‐DYN Sapphire, and DxH800, respectively. All the results provided by the HAs were analyzed through the application of three different blood smear review criteria: that is, the 41‐ICGH, IS, and WGH rules. Finally, data were compared with those obtained by optical microscopy (OM), as the current gold standard.

Results

The overall the agreement OM classification with ICGH, IS, and WGH panel rules is 0.83, 0.83, and 0.85, respectively. The false negatives are 2.1%, 3.0%, and 2.9%, while false positives are 15.1%, 13.7%, and 11.7%, respectively. All the seven HAs showed variable interinstrument performance, as three different criteria for OM review were adopted on each of them from time to time.

Conclusion

These results presented show that the customization of validation rules is necessary for enhancing the quality of hematological testing and optimizing workflow.
Comparison of an automated chemiluminescent assay to a manual ELISA assay for determination of von Willebrand Factor collagen binding activity on VWD plasma patients previously diagnosed through molecular analysis of VWF
Authors: Jousselme E. , Jourdy Y. , Rugeri L. , Négrier C. , Nougier C.
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The correct diagnosis and classification of VWD (von Willebrand disease) is crucial and must be optimized by including the collagen binding assay (VWF:CB). VWF:CB remains an under‐recognized tool, not fully automated. The objective of this study was to evaluate and to compare the previously evaluated automated chemiluminescent assay (HemosIL AcuStar VWF:CB) to the ELISA ASSERACHROM® assay used routinely in our laboratory in patients with molecular diagnosis of VWD.

Methods

A plasma sample from 49 patients previously diagnosed with VWD (type 1; type 2A, type 2M, type 2B) through phenotype and VWF (von Willebrand factor) analysis and 15 healthy controls was analysed. The VWF ristocetin cofactor activity (VWF:Rco) and VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) were performed simultaneously on the VWD plasma samples, and VWF:CB/VWF:Ag ratios were calculated.

Results

The AcuStar VWF:CB assay was quickly performed with Pearson's correlation coefficient (r²) of .9571 between assays and a bias of +5.1U/dL (AcuStar > ELISA). Discrepancies of VWF:CB/VWF:Ag ratio were observed in type 2M‐2A‐like VWD (ratio <0.6 with AcuStar assay in 4/5 samples).

Conclusion

The AcuStar VWF:CB assay has demonstrated good performance to detect VWF mutational changes with capacity to discriminate quickly principal types of VWD.
A ten‐color tube with dried antibody reagents for the screening of hematological malignancies
Authors: Correia R. P. , Rajab A. , Bento L. C. , Alexandre A. M. , Vaz A. C. , Schimidell D. , Pedro E. C. , Perin F. S. , Nozawa S. T. , Barroso R. S. , Bacal N. S.
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The workflow in clinical flow cytometry laboratories must constantly be reviewed to develop technical procedures that improve quality and productivity and reduce costs. Using the Beckman Coulter dry coating technology, we customized a ten‐color tube with dried antibody reagents, designated the Duraclone screening tube (DST), for screening hematological malignancies. Here, we compared the applicability, clinical and numerical equivalence, and cost and time required for the technical procedures between the liquid reagents and the DST.

Methods

The DST contains CD4 + Kappa‐FITC, CD8 + Lambda‐PE, CD3 + CD14‐ECD, CD33‐PE‐Cy5.5, CD20 + CD56‐PE‐Cy7, CD34‐APC, CD19‐APC‐AlexaFluor700, CD10‐APC‐AlexaFluor750, CD5‐Pacific Blue, and CD45‐Krome Orange. We evaluated 20 bone marrow samples, 13 peripheral blood samples, 6 lymph node biopsy samples, 5 fine‐needle aspirate samples, 5 cerebrospinal fluid samples, and 1 pleural fluid sample.

Results

The DST was useful for more than 60% of our samples. It was able to enumerate the majority of the populations in all types of samples with a statistically acceptable correlation with the liquid reagents. The use of the DST translated into significant time and cost savings of 15.8% and 12.3%, respectively, compared with the use of the liquid reagent. The cost was reduced by $14.36 per sample.

Conclusions

The DST is an efficient solution for screening hematological malignancies with improved quality, productivity, standardization, and sustainability. These improvements could benefit patients by providing faster diagnoses using a higher quality and lower cost reagent.
Pyroelectric properties of Mn‐doped Aurivillius ceramics with different pseudo‐perovskite layers
Authors: Tang Yanxue , Shen Zong‐Yang , Zhao Xiangyong , Wang Feifei , Shi Wangzhou , Sun Dazhi , Zhou Zhiyong , Zhang Shujun
Published: October 2017

The pyroelectric properties of Mn‐doped Aurivillius ceramics with different pseudo‐perovskite layers were investigated. The pyroelectric coefficients for 0.2 wt% Mn‐doped two‐layer CaBi2Nb2O9 (CBN–Mn), three‐layer Bi4Ti2.85Nb0.15O12 (BTN–Mn), and four‐layer CaBi4Ti3.95Nb0.05O15 (CBTN–Mn) ferroelectric ceramics were found to be on the order of 26.0, 54.4, 84.4 μC/m2K at room temperature, respectively. These values were closely associated with the number of octahedral layers in the pseudo‐perovskite blocks. The high pyroelectric coefficient, together with low dielectric permittivity and loss (tan δ < 0.003), results in to high figures of merit for the current responsivity, voltage responsivity, and detectivity. The excellent pyroelectric properties and high Curie temperatures (TC > 660°C) make the Aurivillius ceramics potential candidates for pyroelectric devices over a broad temperature range.
High‐volume continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration plus resin hemoperfusion improves severe metformin‐associated toxicity
Authors: Liu Shuangxin , Xu Lixia , Ma Jianchao , Huang Renwei , Lin Ting , Li Zhuo , Liang Huabang , Li Sijia , Li Ruizhao , Zhang Li , Tao Yiming , Li Zhilian , Chen Yuanhan , Ye Zhiming , Zhang Bin , Wang Wenjian , Xiao Houqing , Liang Xinling , Shi Wei
Published: October 2017

We present the case of a 42‐year‐old female patient who attempted suicide by taking approximately 100 tablets of metformin (500 mg). Laboratory tests revealed severe lactic acidosis with lactate levels of 24 mmol/L and pH of 7.09. The patient was treated with high‐volume continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVH) and resin‐sorbent hemoperfusion. Metformin concentrations were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography during CVVH and hemoperfusion treatment. Before extracorporeal treatment, the plasma metformin concentration was 208.5 mg/L. After CVVH treatment for 24 h, the plasma metformin concentration had decreased to 13.9 mg/L. Resin‐based sorbent hemoperfusion plus CVVH treatment had reduced the metformin plasma concentration by 61.8% after 3 h. After 7 days, the patient's laboratory tests and clinical syndrome were improved, and she was discharged from hospital. We provide evidence that CVVH plus hemoperfusion is effective in eliminating metformins and metabolic products.
Terlipressin: Current and emerging indications in chronic liver disease
Authors: Papaluca Timothy , Gow Paul
Published: October 2017

Terlipressin is an analogue of vasopressin that has potent vasoactive properties and has been available for use in most countries for nearly two decades. It has both established roles and emerging indications in the management of complications of decompensated chronic liver disease. We explore historic and emerging literature regarding the use of terlipressin for a range of indications including hepatorenal syndrome, portal hypertensive bleeding, and disruptions in sodium homeostasis. Novel methods of infusion‐based terlipressin administration including the beneficial effect in reduction of adverse events are explored, in addition to new indications for the use of terlipressin in decompensated cirrhosis in an outpatient setting.
Gene expression in hepatomas
Authors: KOKURA KENJI , NAKADAI TOMOYOSHI , KISHIMOTO TOSHIHIKO , MAKINO YASUTAKA , MURAMATSU MASAMI , TAMURA TAKA-AKI
Published: October 2017

Gene expression changes in accordance with cell growth, differentiation and carcinogenesis. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms for hepatocarcinogenesis as well as maintenance of normal hepatocytes, it is important to identify the genes that have altered expression with carcinogenesis. We established a new and efficient cDNA subtraction method via two cDNA populations. By using this method along with rat hepatomas made by the Soh‐Farber protocol, we identified a number of genes, some of which are activated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These genes include ones which code for a transcription factor and a metabolic enzyme. One particular gene can be used as a tumour marker. Our method is beneficial for the isolation of a wide range of HCC‐related genes in rats which, in turn, enables easy identification of their human counterparts. In this review, we describe details of our method and the isolated genes. We also briefly describe transcription factors in the liver.
Effect of FK506 on the activation state of hepatic macrophages in Propionibacterium acnes‐treated rats
Authors: TOSHIMA KEIKO , MOCHIDA SATOSHI , ARAI SHIN , ISHIKAWA KEIKO , MATSUI ATSUSHI , FUJIWARA KENJI
Published: October 2017

Activated hepatic macrophages can provoke massive liver necrosis following endotoxin stimulation through microcirculatory disturbances due to sinusoidal fibrin deposition in rats pretreated with heat‐killed Propionibacterium acnes. In these rats, FK506 (tachlorinus) administered 24 h before and at the time of endotoxin injection, significantly attenuated liver injury compared with the rats given no FK506. The effect of FK506 on hepatic macrophage activation and its action sites were studied in Propionibacterium acnes‐treated rats. When rats received Propionibacterium acnes intravenously, hepatic‐mRNA expression of interferon‐γ‐inducing factor and interleukin‐2 and splenic‐mRNA expression of interferon‐γ were significantly increased compared with normal rats. Hepatic‐mRNA expression of CD14, a receptor for lipopolysaccharide and its binding protein complex, was also increased preceding the expressions of the three cytokines in the liver and spleen. FK506 administration attenuated hepatic‐mRNA expression of interleukin‐2 and both superoxide anions as well as tumour necrosis factor‐α production by hepatic macrophages, but did not change CD14‐mRNA expression in Propionibacterium acnes‐treated rats. It is suggested that a cytokine network through interferon‐γ‐inducing factor, interferon‐γ and interleukin‐2 may operate during activation of hepatic macrophages in rats treated with heat‐killed Propionibacterium acnes, while CD14 expression on the cells may increase independently of this network. FK506 seems to attenuate such activation by suppressing hepatic interleukin‐2 expression, without affecting CD14 expression on the cells.
Colonial growth and differentiation of epithelial cells derived from abattoir adult porcine livers
Authors: KANO JUNKO , TOKIWA TAKAYOSHI , ZHOU XIAODONG , KODAMA MAKOTO
Published: October 2017

The parenchymal cell fraction was isolated from abattoir adult porcine livers and cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagles' medium/Ham's F12 medium (DMEM/F12; 1:1) medium supplemented with 5% foetal calf serum, 10 ng/mL glucagon, 10 µg/mL insulin, 60 ng/mL hydrocortisone and eight other factors (NAIR‐1 medium). The fraction contained a number of epithelial cells other than hepatocytes, some of which attached to the culture plates as cell clusters and began to grow after 3 days in culture. These epithelial cells growing as colonies were found to express cytokeratin 18 by immunocytochemistry. After 7–8 days, duct‐like structures emerged in the central parts of the colonies. The cells constituting the duct‐like structures and some cells located outside the structures were positive for cytokeratin 19 and γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT). The albumin‐positive cells were located in the outer parts of the colonies rather than their central parts. Albumin was also detectable in the cells surrounded by the duct‐like structures. Moreover, cytochrome P450 IA1 was induced by 3‐methylcholanthrene (3‐MC) on day 16. These results suggest that porcine liver epithelial cell clusters may contain stem‐like cells which can differentiate into mature hepatocytes or bile duct epithelial cells.
Signal transduction during liver regeneration
Authors: BRENNER DA
Published: October 2017

Following partial hepatectomy (PH), there is a rapid and highly orchestrated series of biochemical events which occur prior to cellular proliferation. Some of these events are presumably intimately linked with the eventual regeneration of the liver, whereas others are likely to be stress related or required for the continued differentiated function of the liver while regeneration is occurring. The regulation of the AP‐1 transcription factor c‐Jun during hepatic regeneration has been studied here. There is a progressive increase in c‐Jun‐mRNA levels after sham operation, one‐third PH, and two‐thirds PH. A concomitant increase in activating protein 1 (AP‐1) binding activity is also observed. The c‐Jun protein is a major constituent of the AP‐1 complex in quiescent and early regenerating liver. The activity of c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase (JNK), which phosphorylates the activation domain of the c‐Jun protein, is markedly stimulated after one‐third and two‐thirds PH. c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase‐1 is a constituent of this stimulated JNK activity after PH. When primary cultures of adult rat hepatocytes are incubated with epidermal growth factor or transforming growth factor‐α, AP‐1 transcriptional activity is increased and the activation domain of the c‐Jun protein is further potentiated. Phosphopeptide mapping of the endogenous c‐Jun protein in proliferating cultured hepatocytes demonstrates phosphorylation of the c‐Jun activation domain. Pretreatment of animals prior to PH with a neutralizing antibody to tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNFα), inhibits hepatocyte DNA synthesis and JNK activation. It is concluded that the stimulation of one‐third or two‐thirds PH activates JNK through a mechanism that requires TNFα, which phosphorylates the c‐Jun activation domain in hepatocytes, resulting in enhanced transcription of AP‐1‐dependent genes. Although nuclear factor‐kappa B (NFκB) binding activity is induced during liver regeneration following PH, the physiological consequence of this induction is unknown. The role of NFκB during liver regeneration has been assessed by delivering to the liver a super‐repressor of NFκB activity using an adenoviral vector expressing a mutated form of IκB. This adenovirus (Ad5IκB) was almost exclusively expressed in the liver and inhibited NFκB DNA binding activity and transcriptional activity in cultured cells as well as in the liver in vivo. Following PH, Ad5IκB, but not a control adenovirus (Ad5βgal), resulted in the induction of apoptosis as demonstrated by histological staining and TUNEL analysis. In addition, infection with Ad5IκB but not Ad5βgal decreased the mitotic index following PH. These two phenomena, increased apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, were associated with liver failure in animals infected with the ad5IκB but not Ad5βgal as demonstrated by elevated serum bilirubin and ammonia levels. Thus, the induction of NFκB during liver regeneration following PH appears to be a required event to prevent apoptosis and to allow for normal cell cycle progression.
Changing Gender Norms and Marriage Dynamics in the United States
Authors: Pessin Léa
Published: October 2017

Using a regional measure of gender norms from the General Social Surveys and marital histories from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, this study explored how gender norms were associated with women's marriage dynamics between 1968 and 2012. Results suggested that a higher prevalence of egalitarian gender norms predicted a decline in marriage formation. This decline was, however, only true for women without a college degree. For college‐educated women, the association between gender norms and marriage formation became positive when gender egalitarianism prevailed. The findings also revealed an inverted U‐shaped relationship between gender norms and divorce: An initial increase in divorce was observed when gender norms were predominantly traditional. The association, however, reversed as gender norms became egalitarian. No differences by education were found for divorce. The findings partially support the gender revolution framework but also highlight greater barriers to marriage for low‐educated women as societies embrace gender equality.
Therapeutic potency of heat-shock protein-90 pharmacological inhibitors in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer, current status and perspectives
Authors: Boroumand Nadia , Saghi Hossein , Avan Amir , Bahreyni Amirhossein , Ryzhikov Mikhail , Khazaei Majid , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Heat-shock protein-90 (HSP90) chaperone machinery is critical to the folding, stability and activity of several client proteins including many responsible for tumour initiation, progression and metastasis. Overexpression of HSP90 is correlated with poor prognosis of GI cancer.

Key findings

Pharmacological inhibitors of HSP90 suppress tumorigenic effects of HSP90 by suppressing angiogenesis, survival, metastasis and drug resistance in GI cancer. This review summarizes the role of HSP90 inhibitors in the treatment of GI cancer.

We have presented different antitumour mechanisms of HSP90 inhibitors in cancer treatment. Suppression of HSP90 signalling via specific and novel pharmacological inhibitors is a potentially novel therapeutic approach for patients with GI cancer for a better understanding and hence a better management of this disease.
Managing the Front End of Innovation—Less Fuzzy, Yet Still Not Fully Understood
Authors: Eling Katrin , Herstatt Cornelius
Published: October 2017

See virtual issue: Managing the Front‐End of Innovation
Coins, Forts and Commercial Exchanges in the Sixth‐ and Early Seventh‐Century Balkans
Authors: Curta Florin
Published: October 2017

The nature of settlements in the sixth‐century Balkans is a matter of current debate. Amphorae and hoards of iron implements and weapons have been discussed in relation to this controversy. A key problem is that of the use of coins in an economic environment without any large‐scale agricultural production. While hoards of coins have been analyzed in relation to the presence of the military in the Balkans, single finds of coins remain a category of archaeological evidence commonly neglected in discussions of the sixth‐century economy. The article offers an explanation connected with the quaestura exercitus implemented in 536, and its conclusion is that the small copper denominations discovered on hilltop sites in the Balkans were not obtained on the market (none existed in any of the many hilltop sites known so far), but piggybacked on transports of annona.
What are the Limits of Protest Theology? A Review EssayPious Irreverence: Confronting God in Rabbinic Judaism, DovWeiss, University of Pennsylvania Press, 2017 (ISBN 978‐0‐8122‐4835‐7), xii + 287pp., hb $69.95Facing the Abusing God: A Theology of Protest, David R.Blumenthal, Westminster/John Knox, Louisville, 1993 (ISBN 978‐0664254643), xxviii + 319 pp., pb $40
Authors: Blumenthal David R.
Published: October 2017

Pious Irreverence presents the classic rabbinic traditions that embody, or allow, protest of God's actions as well as the anti‐protest tradition that opposed criticism of God. By arranging this material chronologically, Weiss is able to analyze the development of both traditions. He concludes that the rabbis expanded the anthropomorphic and anthropopathic semantic field and, in so doing, allowed very deep criticism of God as a sign of God's intimacy with the Jewish people. Blumenthal, reflecting on Facing the Abusing God: A Theology of Protest, twenty‐five years after its publication, in light of the new material brought forth by Weiss, enters into a dialogue in which he shares second thoughts about his earlier work.
Carbonate and silicate biomineralization in a hypersaline microbial mat (Mesaieed sabkha, Qatar): Roles of bacteria, extracellular polymeric substances and viruses
Authors: Perri Edoardo , Tucker Maurice E. , Słowakiewicz Mirosław , Whitaker Fiona , Bowen Leon , Perrotta Ida D.
Published: October 2017

In a modern peritidal microbial mat from Qatar, both biomediated carbonates and Mg‐rich clay minerals (palygorskite) were identified. The mat, ca 5 cm thick, shows a clear lamination reflecting different microbial communities. The initial precipitates within the top millimetres of the mat are composed of Ca–Mg–Si–Al–S amorphous nanoparticles (few tens of nanometres) that replace the ultrastructure of extracellular polymeric substances. The extracellular polymeric substances are enriched in the same cations and act as a substrate for mineral nucleation. Successively, crystallites of palygorskite fibres associated with carbonate nanocrystals develop, commonly surrounding bacterial bodies. Micron‐sized crystals of low‐Mg calcite are the most common precipitates, together with subordinate aragonite, very high‐Mg calcite/dolomite and ankerite. Pyrite nanocrystals and framboids are present in the deeper layers of the mat. Calcite crystallites form conical structures, circular to triangular/hexagonal in cross‐section, evolving to crystals with rhombohedral terminations; some crystallite bundles develop into dumb‐bell and stellate forms. Spheroidal organo‐mineral structures are also common within the mat. Nanospheres, a few tens of nanometres in diameter, occur attached to coccoid bacteria and within their cells; these are interpreted as permineralized viruses and could be significant as nuclei for crystallite‐crystal precipitation. Microspheres, 1 to 10 μm in diameter, result from intracellular permineralization within bacteria or the mineralization of the bacteria themselves. Carbonates and clay minerals are commonly aggregated to form peloids, tens of microns in size, surrounded by residual organic matter. Magnesium silicate and carbonate precipitation are likely to have been driven by pH – saturation index – redox changes within the mat, related to microenvironmental chemical changes induced by the microbes – extracellular polymeric substances – viruses and their degradation.
The Evolving Singaporean Welfare State
Authors: Lee Soo Ann , Qian Jiwei
Published: October 2017

East Asian welfare states are regarded as a welfare regime that supports ‘productivism’, in which social policies play a supportive role for economic policies. However, recent dramatic social and economic challenges persist, including ageing and change of labour market structure. Whether welfare states in East Asia can evolve with these changes remains uncertain. The social policies in Singapore, which have been designed to accommodate the political rationale and economic growth strategy in the economic, political and social contexts, are discussed in this article. This research contributes to the literature by interpreting the welfare regime in Singapore from a broad and dynamic political and economic context. Furthermore, this article considers the policy responses in Singapore to the change of the economic and social conditions in evolving welfare states by reviewing recent developments of the country's social policies.
A novel HLA class II allele, HLA‐DRB1*04:01:17, identified in a Chinese volunteer donor for China Marrow Donor Program
Authors: Feng Z.‐H. , Yang Z.‐X. , Ma W.‐H. , Pang S.‐T.
Published: October 2017

One nucleotide replacement at nucleotide 144 of HLA‐DRB1*04:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐DRB1*04:01:17.
Identification of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii endogenous genic flanking sequences for improved transgene expression
Authors: López‐Paz Cristina , Liu Dianyi , Geng Sa , Umen James G.
Published: October 2017

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a unicellular green alga that has attracted interest due to its potential biotechnological applications, and as a model for algal biofuel and energy metabolism. Despite all the advantages that this unicellular alga offers, poor and inconsistent expression of nuclear transgenes remains an obstacle for basic and applied research. We used a data‐mining strategy to identify highly expressed genes in Chlamydomonas whose flanking sequences were tested for the ability to drive heterologous nuclear transgene expression. Candidates identified in this search included two ribosomal protein genes, RPL35a and RPL23, and ferredoxin, FDX1, whose flanking regions including promoters, terminators and untranslated sequences could drive stable luciferase transgene expression to significantly higher levels than the commonly used Hsp70A‐RBCS2 (AR) hybrid promoter/terminator sequences. The RPL23 flanking sequences were further tested using the zeocin resistance gene sh‐ble as a reporter in monocistronic and dicistronic constructs, and consistently yielded higher numbers of zeocin‐resistant transformants and higher levels of resistance than AR‐ or PSAD‐based vectors. Chlamydomonas RPL23 sequences also enabled transgene expression in Volvox carteri. Our study provides an additional benchmark for strong constitutive expression of transgenes in Chlamydomonas, and develops a general approach for identifying flanking sequences that can be used to drive transgene expression for any organism where transcriptome data are available.