bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta-analysis of prediction model performance across multiple studies: Which scale helps ensure between-study normality for the C-statistic and calibration measures?
Authors: Snell Kym IE , Ensor Joie , Debray Thomas PA , Moons Karel GM , Riley Richard D
Published: May 2017

If individual participant data are available from multiple studies or clusters, then a prediction model can be externally validated multiple times. This allows the model’s discrimination and calibration performance to be examined across different settings. Random-effects meta-analysis can then be used to quantify overall (average) performance and heterogeneity in performance. This typically assumes a normal distribution of ‘true’ performance across studies. We conducted a simulation study to examine this normality assumption for various performance measures relating to a logistic regression prediction model. We simulated data across multiple studies with varying degrees of variability in baseline risk or predictor effects and then evaluated the shape of the between-study distribution in the C-statistic, calibration slope, calibration-in-the-large, and E/O statistic, and possible transformations thereof. We found that a normal between-study distribution was usually reasonable for the calibration slope and calibration-in-the-large; however, the distributions of the C-statistic and E/O were often skewed across studies, particularly in settings with large variability in the predictor effects. Normality was vastly improved when using the logit transformation for the C-statistic and the log transformation for E/O, and therefore we recommend these scales to be used for meta-analysis. An illustrated example is given using a random-effects meta-analysis of the performance of QRISK2 across 25 general practices.
Methoxyphenyl chalcone sensitizes aggressive epithelial cancer to cisplatin through apoptosis induction and cancer stem cell eradication
Authors: Su Yu-kai , Huang Wen-Chien , Lee Wei-Hwa , Bamodu Oluwaseun Adebayo , Zucha Muhammad Ary , Astuti Indwiani , Suwito Heri , Yeh Chi-Tai , Lin Chien-Min
Published: May 2017

Current standard chemotherapy for late stage ovarian cancer is found unsuccessful due to relapse after completing the regimens. After completing platinum-based chemotherapy, 70% of patients develop relapse and resistance. Recent evidence proves ovarian cancer stem cells as the source of resistance. Therefore, treatment strategy to target both cancer stem cells and normal stem cells is essential. In this study, we developed a novel chalcone derivative as novel drug candidate for ovarian cancer treatment. We found that methoxyphenyl chalcone was effective to eliminate ovarian cancer cells when given either as monotherapy or in combination with cisplatin. We found that cell viability of ovarian cancer cells was decreased through apoptosis induction. Dephosphorylation of Bcl2-associated agonist of cell death protein was increased after methoxyphenyl chalcone treatment that led to activation of caspases. Interestingly, this drug also worked as a G2/M checkpoint modulator with alternative ways of DNA damage signal–evoking potential that might work to increase response after cisplatin treatment. In addition, methoxyphenyl chalcone was able to suppress autophagic flux and stemness regulator in ovarian spheroids that decreased their survival. Therefore, combination of methoxyphenyl chalcone and cisplatin showed synergistic effects. Taken together, we believe that our novel compound is a promising novel therapeutic agent for effective clinical treatment of ovarian cancer.
Effect of SOCS1 silencing on proliferation and apoptosis of melanoma cells: An in vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Yu Sheng-Jia , Long Zi-Wen
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to investigate the effect of SOCS1 silencing on the proliferation and apoptosis of melanoma cells by in vivo and in vitro studies. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect SOCS1 expression in melanoma tissues and pigmented nevi. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were applied to detect the messenger RNA and protein expressions of SOCS1 in primary human melanocytes and malignant melanoma cell lines (A375, SK-MEL-5, M14, and MV3). Melanoma cells were assigned into mock, negative small interfering RNA, and SOCS1-small interfering RNA groups. The proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis, and messenger RNA expression of SOCS1 in MV3 and A375 cells were detected using MTT assay, flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The expressions of SOCS1 protein, extracellular signal–regulated kinase, and janus kinase signal transduction and activators of transcription signaling pathways–related proteins were detected using western blotting. After the establishment of subcutaneous xenograft tumor models in nude mice, the latent period, size, volume and growth speed of xenograft tumors in the mock, negative small interfering RNA, and SOCS1-small interfering RNA groups were examined and compared. The results indicated that positive expression rate of SOCS1 was higher in malignant melanoma tissues than in pigmented nevi. MV3 cells had the highest messenger RNA and protein expressions of SOCS1, followed by A357 cells. Compared with the mock and negative small interfering RNA groups, SOCS1-small interfering RNA group showed lower cell viability, elevated cell apoptosis, more cells in G0/G1 phase and less cells in S and G2/M phases, and decreased messenger RNA and protein expressions of SOCS1, p-ERK1/2, p-JAK2, p-STAT1, and p-STAT3. Compared with the mock and negative small interfering RNA groups, the SOCS1-small interfering RNA group showed longer latent period of tumor, smaller tumor size and volume, and smoother tumor growth curve. To conclude, SOCS1 silencing can inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of MV3 and A357 melanoma cells in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting extracellular signal–regulated kinase and janus kinase signal transduction and activators of transcription signaling pathways.
Accounting and the history of the everyday life of captains, sailors and common seamen in eighteenth-century Portuguese slave trading
Authors: Pinto Ofélia , West Brian
Published: May 2017

This archive-based case study uses accounting and related records to uncover details of the everyday life of the captains, sailors and seamen who manned the ships that allowed Portuguese slave trading to flourish during the eighteenth century. By elaborating the lives of the crews of the ships of the Companhia Geral do Grão Pará e Maranhão, a Portuguese chartered company created in 1755 for the express purpose of slave trading, the study contributes to a growing body of literature that uses accounting documents as a source of social history and enables previously silent voices to be heard. Furthermore, the study brings together two notions which have previously remained separated in the accounting history literature: the everyday lives of participants within the setting of a ‘dark’ episode of human history.
Imported leishmaniasis in a dog in a sandfly-populated area in northeastern Romania
Authors: Pavel Geta , Timofte Dorina , Mocanu Diana , Malancus Razvan , Solcan Carmen
Published: May 2017

We report the importation of a clinical case of canine leishmaniasis (CanL) in Romania, a country where several types of sandflies are present with the potential to develop a new focus of CanL. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog was imported into Romania from Spain 1.5 y before he developed clinical symptomatology that included proliferative dermatitis, lymphadenomegaly, and bilateral uveitis. Hematologic analyses showed regenerative anemia and subacute inflammation. Cytologic examination of lymph node fine-needle aspirates revealed Leishmania spp. amastigotes that were confirmed as L. infantum by PCR. The importation of canine leishmania cases into nonendemic areas in which the vector exists could potentially lead to the silent spread of a disease posing a significant public health threat.
Perceptions of Nursing in Appalachia: A State of the Science Paper
Authors: Brewer Evelyn P.
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Nursing practice is continuously evolving in response to global health care need, sociopolitical culture, and advancing medical knowledge necessitating ongoing evaluation of professional practice. The purpose of this state of this science paper was to explore current perceptions of nursing and critique the depth of knowledge specific to nursing practice in the Appalachian region. Methodology: A review of the literature in multiple databases was conducted to explore perceptions of nursing in Appalachia. Results: Categories of perception included the following: (a) perceptions of nurses and education leaders that practice in the Appalachian region, (b) perceptions of communities of Appalachia and Appalachian health care systems, and (c) perceptions of patients possessing inherent cultural characteristics of the Appalachian region. Discussion: None of the literature specifically addressed perceptions of nursing. Much of the available literature was over 5 years old. A significant deficiency in understanding perceptions of nursing in Appalachia was identified.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Asian American Families of Children With Developmental Disabilities
Authors: He Lihang
Published: May 2017

Parents of children with developmental disabilities usually experience stress, grief, and isolation. Asian American parents may experience higher stress and other difficulties due to their cultural background, discrimination, and different acculturation status. Parental well-being also has an impact on the parent–child interaction and the child’s development. Psychological and educational intervention for parents of children with developmental disabilities has been studied from different approaches, such as family system and cognitive behavior therapy. The possibility of integrating cognitive behavior therapy and structural family therapy was also proposed.
Intercultural Parenting in Australia
Authors: Bhugun Dharam
Published: May 2017

This study employed a qualitative and social constructionist approach to examine cultural differences in intercultural parenting and how parents negotiated cultural differences. Semistructured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 intercultural couples/parents. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data and understand the meanings of participants’ experiences. The findings revealed that while intercultural couples experienced several similar aspects of parenting experienced by monocultural couples, their experiences were exacerbated because of the cultural differences. The most common descriptions of differences and uniqueness in parenting were identified as (a) discipline, (b) sleep patterns, (c) cultural taboos refood and traditional medical practices, (d) children’s socialization process, (e) education, (f) language and communication, (g) role of children, and (h) the role of extended families. Five major conflict resolution strategies were identified: (a) communication, (b) compromise, (c) sphere of rule, (d) asymmetrical decision-making, and (e) individual traits. Practical implications for therapists and counsellors working with intercultural parents/couples are discussed.
Disruption of Estrogen Receptor Alpha in Rats Results in Faster Initiation of Compensatory Regeneration Despite Higher Liver Injury After Carbon Tetrachloride Treatment
Authors: McGreal Steven R. , Rumi Karim , Soares Michael J. , Woolbright Benjamin L. , Jaeschke Hartmut , Apte Udayan
Published: May 2017

Estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) is 1 of the 2 intracellular receptors for estrogen and is expressed by hepatocytes in the liver. The role of ESR1 in the regulation of toxicant-induced liver injury and compensatory regeneration is not completely clear. We investigated the role of ESR1 in liver regeneration after carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury using wild type (WT) and ESR1 knockout (ESR1-KO) rats. Adult female WT and ESR1-KO rats were treated with 1 mL/kg CCl4 and euthanized over a time course of 0 to 48 hours. Liver injury measured by serum alanine amino transaminase, and histopathological analysis showed significantly higher liver injury in ESR1-KO as compared to WT rats. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed 2-fold higher necrosis and significant inflammatory cell infiltration in ESR1-KO rats. Chloracetate esterase staining revealed higher neutrophil infiltration in ESR1-KO rat livers. Interestingly, proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemistry showed that in spite of 2-fold higher liver injury, the ESR1-KO rats had equal liver regeneration as compared to WT rats. Western blot analysis of cyclin D1 and phosphorylated Rb, proteins involved in the initiation of the cell cycle, was significantly higher at all time points in ESR1-KO rats. Further analysis revealed faster activation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin and NF-κB signaling in ESR1-KO rats characterized by higher activated β-catenin and phosphorylated p65 at 12 hours after CCl4 treatment. Taken together, these data indicate that ESR1-mediated signaling inhibits liver regeneration by downregulation of Wnt signaling resulting in lower cyclin D1 activation after chemical-induced liver injury.
The Discursive Resistance of Men to Gender-equality Interventions: Negotiating “Unjustness” and “Unnecessity” in Swedish Forestry
Authors: Johansson Kristina , Andersson Elias , Johansson Maria , Lidestav Gun
Published: May 2017

This article adds to the understanding of men’s discursive resistance in relation to gender-equality interventions at work. Using Swedish men forestry professionals as the empirical base, the result shows how discursive resistance were performative acts, part of the construction of the same gender-equality interventions and organizational contexts that they were perceived to describe. In this case, direct opposition to gender equality provided a limited discursive position and sets of logics available in practice. Instead, the possibilities to renegotiate gender-equality interventions as unjust and unnecessary required, we conclude that the industry’s ambition to hire and promote more women was perceived to have led to the use of affirmative action and the disruption of meritocratic principles and that the problems of gender equality were placed in the traditional forestry and among “prejudiced old men,” as oppose to the more “modern” and “women friendly” forestry of today.
Mental Illness, Police Use of Force, and Citizen Injury
Authors: Rossler Michael T. , Terrill William
Published: May 2017

Police departments are increasingly becoming the primary entity for managing incidents involving persons with mental illness, thereby leading to calls for additional research. Drawing on a multicity use-of-force research project, the current inquiry examines whether citizens displaying signs of mental illness are subjected to higher levels of police use of force, and whether they are more likely to be injured, controlling for a host of relevant predictors. The findings show that officers use higher levels of force on persons with mental illness, but such citizens are not at an enhanced risk of injury. The policy and research implications of the findings are discussed.
Young, Innocent and Sexist? Social Differences in Benevolent and Hostile Sexist Attitudes towards Women amongst Flemish Adolescents
Authors: Vandenbossche Lauren , Spruyt Bram , Keppens Gil
Published: May 2017

Over the past few decades the position of women in Western societies has substantially improved in several domains. However, persistent inequalities remain and gender prejudice is thought to play a key role in this. In this article, we contribute to the literature which holds that in current Western societies, gender prejudice manifests itself in a more ‘benevolent’ form which encompasses subjectively favourable but patronizing attitudes towards women. We investigated the distribution of hostile sexism (HS) and benevolent sexism (BS) towards women amongst a large sample of Flemish adolescents ( N = 952). We found that while HS towards women is most prevalent amongst boys in technical and vocational education, girls in technical and vocational education also comply with macho culture. Moreover, these less educated girls also display the most BS towards women.
Application and comparative study of new optimization method for performance ranking of friction materials
Authors: Mahale Vishal , Bijwe Jayashree , Sinha Sujeet
Published: May 2017

Good friction materials should satisfy diverse and contradictory performance requirements such as adequate friction ( µ ≈ 0.35–0.45), resistance to wear, fade, squeal, judder, etc. in consort with good recovery and less noise producing tendency. To achieve center point of all these conflicting criteria and selection of best overall performing friction material is multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) problem and very difficult task. Decision maker can easily make decision with single criteria without the help of any optimization tool by maximizing beneficial criteria and minimizing non-beneficial criteria. However, it is extremely challenging task if decision making involves several number of conflicting criteria. Few techniques are reported in the literature such as ‘multiple criteria decision model’, ‘Multi-attribute decision model’, ‘extension evaluation method’ (EEM), etc. for performance ranking of friction materials. However, the simplicity, reliability, applicability, time devoted for the analysis, etc. are always most important aspects of selecting a right tool for the analysis. In this paper application of a technique ‘multiple objective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis’ (MOORA) has been first time employed for performance ranking of friction materials. A comparative study of MOORA and currently used methods MCDM and EEM are also presented. MOORA proved to be the best tool based on the criteria such as simple to use, fast, flexible, and efficient one.
Improving daily occupancy forecasting accuracy for hotels based on EEMD-ARIMA model
Authors: Zhang Gaojun , Wu Jinfeng , Pan Bing , Li Junyi , Ma Minjie , Zhang Muzi , Wang Jian
Published: May 2017

Predicting daily occupancy is extremely important for the revenue management of individual hotels. However, daily occupancy can fluctuate widely and is difficult to forecast accurately based on existing forecasting methods. In this article, ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD)—a novel method—is introduced, and an individual hotel is chosen to test the effectiveness of EEMD in combination with an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). Result shows that this novel method, EEMD-ARIMA, can improve forecasting accuracy compared to the popular ARIMA method, especially for short-term forecasting.
“When Las Vegas takes to the sea
Authors: Castillo-Manzano José I , Castro-Nuño Mercedes , López-Valpuesta Lourdes
Published: May 2017

The past decade’s trend toward super-sized cruise ships has enriched the experience for cruise passengers. Unlike a small number of mega cruises that have chosen to press on in a luxury–classic style, the vast majority are rapidly converging on a Las Vegas resorts-style tourism model. Aside from the traditional factor that Las Vegas and cruises have in common, that is, the casino, this article analyzes other aspects of this increasingly mimetic relationship, with the following standing out: the greater importance given to entertainment; the greater variety and quality of Food and Beverage (F&B) and shopping choices; an informal dress code; a complex, dynamic management as to both prices and extracting monopoly rents from passengers; the expansion of both models outside their original locations, Las Vegas and the Caribbean; and, lastly, in response to previous trends, an oligopoly market.
Seeking consensus on universal health coverage indicators in the sustainable development goals
Authors: Reddock Jennifer
Published: May 2017

There is optimism that the inclusion of universal health coverage in the Sustainable Development Goals advances its prominence in global and national health policy. However, formulating indicators for Target 3.8 through the Inter-Agency Expert Group on Sustainable Development Indicators has been challenging. Achieving consensus on the conceptual and methodological aspects of universal health coverage is likely to take some time in multi-stakeholder fora compared with national efforts to select indicators.
Collective action against sexism in Germany, Turkey, and Japan: The influence of self-construal and face concerns
Authors: Fischer Freyja B. , Becker Julia C. , Kito Mie , Zamantılı Nayır Dilek
Published: May 2017

We suggest that self-construal and face concerns influence individuals’ collective action intentions against sexism. We examined female students from Germany ( N = 105), Japan ( N = 112), and Turkey, ( N = 111), exposed them to a benevolent and a hostile sexism scenario, and compared their collective action intentions and indirect conflict management styles (avoiding, outflanking) within countries. As predicted, German and Turkish female students’ collective action intentions against sexism surpassed their intentions for indirect conflict management styles, whereas the reverse was true for Japanese female students. However, Japanese female students had an unaccomplished desire for collective action, suggesting that they wish to act but decide against open confrontation to maintain ingroup harmony. The higher individuals’ independent self-concept and the less they value face, the higher their collective action intentions against hostile sexism in all three countries. We discuss culturally appropriate ways of collective action.
Short-Term Outcomes of Colorectal Resection for Cancer in Elderly in the Era of Enhanced Recovery
Authors: Venara A. , Barbieux J. , Mucci S. , Talbot M. F. , Lermite E. , Hamy A.
Published: May 2017

Background and aims:

Early rehabilitation protocols should be assessed in elderly. We aimed to study the outcomes of colorectal surgery and the observance of the modalities of an early rehabilitation protocol in patients over 80 years.

Material and Methods:

All consecutive patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer in our center over a 19-month period were included. All of these patients were managed using the same early rehabilitation protocol. Patients older than 80 were compared to younger patients.

Results:

A total of 173 patients were included and 36 were ≥80 years (20.8%). Patients aged ≥80 years had a significantly higher ASA score and were operated on in emergency. In the peroperative period, patients aged ≥80 years were more likely to undergo laparotomy than patients <80 years in univariate analysis (p = 0.048), but in multivariate analysis, the choice for a laparoscopy was influenced by ASA score ≤2 (odds ratio = 3.55, 95% confidence interval = 1.67–7.58) and emergency surgery (odds ratio = 0.18, 95% confidence interval = 0.06–0.50). In the postoperative period, peristalsis stimulation and vascular catheter ablation were significantly better followed in Group 1 (p = 0.012 and 0.031). However, in multivariate analysis, age was not significantly associated with these parameters. Peristalsis stimulation was influenced by ASA score ≥2 (odds ratio = 4.27, 95% confidence interval = 1.18–15.37) and vascular catheter ablation was also influenced by ASA score ≤2 (odds ratio = 2.63, 95% confidence interval = 1.33–5.21). Emergency surgery had a strong trend to influence these parameters (p = 0.08).

Conclusion:

Although age or comorbidities may affect observance for certain modalities such as chewing gum use and vascular catheter ablation, an early rehabilitation protocol can be used after colorectal cancer surgery in patients ≥80 years old, where it would improve functional results and postoperative outcomes.
Beyond the self: Intersubjectivity and the social semiotic interpretation of the selfie
Authors: Zhao Sumin , Zappavigna Michele
Published: May 2017

As an iconic image of our time, the selfie has attracted much attention in popular media and scholarly writing. The focus so far has been on the representation of the self or subjectivity. We propose a complementary perspective that foregrounds the intersubjective function of the selfie. We argue that the presence of selfhood is often an assumption. What distinguishes the selfie from other photographic genres is its ability to enact intersubjectivity – the possibility for difference of perspectives to be created and this difference to be shared between the image creator and the viewer. Based on a social semiotic analysis of selfies on Instagram, we identify four subtypes of selfie, each deploying a combination of visual resources to represent a distinct form of intersubjectivity. Our analysis suggests that the potential for empowerment is inherent in the visual structure of the selfie, and that, as a genre, it is open for recontextualisation across contexts and social media platforms.
Elastoplastic behavior of the metal matrix nanocomposites containing carbon nanotubes: A micromechanics-based analysis
Authors: Haghgoo M , Ansari R , Hassanzadeh-Aghdam MK , Darvizeh A
Published: May 2017

The elastoplastic behavior of aluminum (Al) nanocomposites reinforced with aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is characterized using a unit cell micromechanical model. The interphase zone caused by the chemical reaction between CNT and Al matrix is included in the analysis. To attain the elastoplastic stress–strain curve of the nanocomposites, the successive approximation method together with the von Mises yield criterion is employed. The effects of several important factors including the volume fraction and diameter of CNT, material properties, and size of interphase on the elastoplastic stress–strain curve of the nanocomposites during uniaxial tension are studied. The results indicate that the interphase characteristics significantly affect the elastoplastic behavior of the CNT-reinforced Al nanocomposites. It is also found that the yield stress of the nanocomposites rises with increasing CNT volume fraction or decreasing CNT diameter. Besides, the elastoplastic stress–strain curve of the CNT-reinforced Al nanocomposites is presented for multiaxial tension. The initial yield envelopes of the nanocomposites under longitudinal–transverse biaxial tension are provided too. Comparison between the elastic results of the present model with those of other available micromechanical analyses shows a very good agreement.
Triads
Authors: Siltaloppi Jaakko , Vargo Stephen L.
Published: May 2017

Triads examine the associations among three actors, involving, at a minimum, the analysis of two dyadic ties among three interrelated actors. By making apparent the indirect ties bearing on actors, the triad is the smallest unit of analysis for a network. Despite extensive conceptual and empirical work, little systematic attention is given to the triad in the marketing literature. This article reviews literature spanning multiple academic disciplines and makes three contributions. First, it provides an overview of the triad concept combining sociological insights with more recent work emerging in operations management and marketing. Second, the article identifies three distinct forms of triadic relationships in existing literature: (1) brokerage, focused on the action of the third between two others; (2) mediation, describing different mechanisms by which a dyadic relationship affects and is affected by a relationship with a third party; and (3) coalition, capturing the configuration and evolution of ties in the three-actor system as a whole. Finally, this article develops an initial research agenda for triadic marketing research.
Confucianism and its contexts: New research in Confucian political learning
Authors: Jenco Leigh
Published: May 2017

This introduction to the special issue explains why political theorists should be interested in Confucianism and what we have to gain by considering Confucian learning in its broader historical and political contexts.
Vibration signal–based fault diagnosis in complex structures: A beam-like structure approach
Authors: Wang Hong , Jing Xingjian
Published: May 2017

Sensor network–based data-driven fault diagnosis in complex structures using limited prior knowledge is an interesting and hot topic in the literature. In this study, an integrated feature characterization and fuzzy decision method is developed based on a novel beam-like structure approach for fault diagnosis using available limited prior knowledge. Complex structures embedded with vibration sensors can be regarded as some virtual beam-like structures by considering the vibration transmission path from vibration sources to each sensor. The dynamic response of the structures in this vibration transmission path can demonstrate obvious fault features if there is a fault (typically, for example, cracks in connecting rods or around bolts, and bolt-loosening). These fault features can be effectively characterized and efficiently captured and utilized for fault diagnosis with a fuzzy decision method based on the virtual beam-like structure concept. This novel virtual beam-like structure approach needs only limited prior knowledge of the faults and does not require stationary response data. It is also not with respect to a specific structure design and is easy to implement within a sensor network. The effectiveness of the proposed method is well validated in the experiments for fault diagnosis including loosening bolts or cracks around bolts of complex structures such as bolted-base hanging structures in satellites.
Community intervention in urban areas: A youth driven initiative
Authors: Carvalho Claudia P
Published: May 2017

This paper aims to reflect on the results of the project Community Intervention in Urban Areas: a youth driven initiative. This project envisioned the development of a Transnational Seminar that gave origin to the development of youth arts intervention projects and to the elaboration of the document “Youth Policies for Urban Neighborhoods”. The project started from the youth’s reflection on the physical, social, economic, and cultural degradation of specific spaces/territories and communities in Portugal, Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium (spaces in ruins, non-places and other abandoned areas), exploring these territories as spaces for transformation and future renovation. The idea is to explore the ways youth may contribute to the transformation of these spaces, therefore enhancing their civic knowledge, capacity to intervene and influence policy and research under this theme. We wish to explore the role of younger generations, and youth in particular, through a change of paradigm. That is, by developing alternatives of intervention, through Participant Action Research and through the exploration of its connections with artistic practice and the cultural field in general. We hope this approach can influence local, national and European youth education policies and enhance different approaches to research in general.
Hate won, but love will have the final word: Critical pedagogy, liberation theology, and the moral imperative of resistance
Authors: Kirylo James D
Published: May 2017

In the context of the recent presidential election in the United States, this article examines the place of critical pedagogy and liberation theology and its positionality in impacting the moral imperative of resisting a climate of hate and intolerance. Particularly drawing from the work of Peter McLaren, Gustavo Gutiérrez, Paulo Freire and others, the fundamental lens that drives this piece is one’s commitment to truth, one which brings together the various strands of critical pedagogy and thusly can be characterized as what McLaren calls a revolutionary critical pedagogy. Within that frame, McLaren argues that a revolutionary critical pedagogy must be open to turn to the spiritual in informing its praxis, providing a foundational base of active resistance.
Pre-clinical and clinical investigations of metabolic zonation in liver diseases: The potential of microphysiology systems
Authors: Soto-Gutierrez Alejandro , Gough Albert , Vernetti Lawrence A , Taylor DL , Monga Satdarshan P
Published: May 2017

The establishment of metabolic zonation within a hepatic lobule ascribes specific functions to hepatocytes based on unique, location-dependent gene expression patterns. Recently, there have been significant developments in the field of metabolic liver zonation. A little over a decade ago, the role of β-catenin signaling was identified as a key regulator of gene expression and function in pericentral hepatocytes. Since then, additional molecules have been identified that regulate the pattern of Wnt/β-catenin signaling within a lobule and determine gene expression and function in other hepatic zones. Currently, the molecular basis of metabolic zonation in the liver appears to be a ‘push and pull’ between signaling pathways. Such compartmentalization not only provides an efficient assembly line for hepatocyte functions but also can account for restricting the initial hepatic damage and pathology from some hepatotoxic drugs to specific zones, possibly enabling effective regeneration and restitution responses from unaffected cells. Careful analysis and experimentation have also revealed that many pathological conditions in the liver lobule are spatially heterogeneous. We will review current research efforts that have focused on examination of the role and regulation of such mechanisms of hepatocyte adaptation and repair. We will discuss how the pathological organ-specific microenvironment affects cell signaling and metabolic liver zonation, especially in steatosis, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. We will discuss how the use of new human microphysiological platforms will lead to a better understanding of liver disease progression, diagnosis, and therapies. In conclusion, we aim to provide insights into the role and regulation of metabolic zonation and function using traditional and innovative approaches.

Impact statement

Liver zonation of oxygen tension along the liver sinusoids has been identified as a critical liver microenvironment that impacts specific liver functions such as intermediary metabolism of amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, detoxification of xenobiotics and as sites for initiation of liver diseases. To date, most information on the role of zonation in liver disease including, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been obtained from animal models. It is now possible to complement animal studies with human liver, microphysiology systems (MPS) containing induced pluripotent stem cells engineered to create disease models where it is also possible to control the in vitro liver oxygen microenvironment to define the role of zonation on the mechanism(s) of disease progression. The field now has the tools to investigate human liver disease progression, diagnosis, and therapeutic development.
Clinical Course of Hemodialysis Access After Initial Endovascular Intervention for Stenosis in Asian Renal Failure Patients
Authors: Senthoor Dewahar , Thant Kyi Zin , Ng Tze-Kiat , Ho Pei
Published: May 2017

Background:

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and arteriovenous fistula graft (AVG) access for hemodialysis can develop stenosis, eventually leading to thrombosis and access failure. Prompt endovascular intervention can salvage the access but restenosis does occur. Clinical course, restenosis pattern, and risk factors associated with initial stenosis of AVFs/AVGs in Asian hemodialysis patients were studied.

Method:

A retrospective study was conducted (January 2009-June 2012) on consecutive patients with renal failure who developed the first-time stenosis in the vascular access and were managed with endovascular intervention. One hundred fourteen patients (54 AVFs and 60 AVGs) were studied, and all clinical outcomes were recorded until October 2013.

Results:

The mean time from access creation to endovascular intervention for the first-time stenosis for patients with AVF and AVG was 23.5 (32.7 standard deviation [SD]) months and 12.5 (11.0) months, respectively. An average of 1.7 (range, 1-5) interventions were performed for AVFs, whereas 2.4 (range, 1-11) for AVGs ( P = .008). Upon conclusion of the study, 23 patients with AVF survived with functional index access, whereas 10 passed away with a functional original access. The remaining 21 patients with AVFs failed, requiring new access, tunneled catheter, or peritoneal dialysis. Of the 60 patients with AVG, 6 survived and 8 died with functional index access; 46 required new access or other forms of dialysis ( P = .000). Kaplan-Meier estimated that access patency and survival with functional access were significantly lower for AVGs than for AVFs after the first salvage intervention. Female patients had an increased risk of restenosis with both univariate ( P = .016) and multivariate ( P = .013) analysis. With univariate analysis ( P = .039), patients with hyperlipidemia had a higher risk of developing restenosis in the vascular access.

Conclusion:

The clinical course and prognosis of failing AVFs and AVGs are distinct. The information on access prognosis and stenosis recurrence patterns will be helpful for patient counseling and planning of follow-up intervals, after the first-time intervention for access stenosis.
Radiotherapy for Pertussis: An Historical Assessment
Authors: Calabrese Edward J. , Dhawan Gaurav , Kapoor Rachna
Published: May 2017

X-ray therapy was used to treat pertussis/whooping cough during a 13-year period from 1923 to 1936 in North America and Europe. Twenty studies from clinicians in the United States reported that approximately 1500 cases of pertussis were treated by X-ray therapy usually with less than 0.5 erythema dose. Young children (<3 years) comprised about 70% to 80% of the cases, with the age of cases ranging from as young as 1 month to 50 years. In general, symptoms of severe coughing, vomiting episodes, and spasms were significantly relieved in about 85% of cases following up to 3 treatments, while about 15% of the cases showed nearly full relief after only 1 treatment. The X-ray therapy was also associated with a marked reduction in mortality of young (<3 years) children by over 90%. Despite such reported clinical success from a wide range of experienced researchers, the use of X-rays for the treatment of pertussis in young children was controversial, principally due to concerns of exposure to the thymus and thyroid even with the availability of lead shielding. By the mid-1930s, the treatment of pertussis cases via vaccine therapy came to dominate the therapeutic arena, and the brief era of a radiotherapy option for the treatment of pertussis ended.
The cost of humour: Political satire on social media and censorship in China
Authors: Luqiu Luwei Rose
Published: May 2017

On the basis of interviews with several of the most well-known political satirists in China and content analysis of a corpus of satirical texts, this study demonstrates how censorship has been strengthened since the creation of the State Internet Information Office in 2011. It also examines censorship’s different forms and its impact on individuals. The Chinese government imposes mainstream censorship policies on social media, and it is impossible for political satirists to avoid the ‘red line’ to lower political risk. The threat of censorship causes political satirists to self-censor, abandon their creations and reduce their output. The influence of those who continue to work is diminished because the government controls all Chinese social media platforms. However, political satire still has strong vitality thanks to collective action, such as the anonymous production, distribution and sharing of work on Chinese social media. The future of political satire on social media depends on whether the race between netizens and censors continues.
MicroRNA-9 regulates mammalian axon regeneration in peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Jiang Jingjing , Hu Yiwen , Zhang Boyin , Shi Yao , Zhang Jin , Wu Xiuying , Yao Peng
Published: May 2017

Effective axon regeneration is achieved mainly by precise regulation of gene expression after peripheral nerve injury. MicroRNAs play an important role in controlling axon regeneration owe to its key epigenetic function in regulating gene expression. Here, we reveal that microRNA-9 (miR-9) may be a new suppressor of axon regeneration and FoxP1 is the functional target of miR-9. High level of endogenous miR-9 in sensory neurons inhibited axon regeneration in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the regulatory effect of miR-9 was mediated by changes in FoxP1 levels. Full rescuing effect of axon regeneration was achieved by FoxP1 up-regulation. Most importantly, we showed that miR-9-FoxP1 might be a new signaling pathway to regulate mammalian axon regrowth. Moreover, we provided the first evidence that maintaining a higher level of FoxP1 in sensory neurons by the microRNA is necessary for efficient axon regeneration.
The relationship between employment status and depression symptomatology among women at risk for postpartum depression
Authors: Lewis Beth A , Billing Lauren , Schuver Katie , Gjerdingen Dwenda , Avery Melissa , Marcus Bess H
Published: May 2017

Approximately 13%–19% of new mothers report depression during the postpartum period. Returning to work after childbirth is associated with depression; however, it is unclear if this finding applies to women who are at high risk for postpartum depression. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between employment status and depression symptomatology among women at risk for postpartum depression (defined as personal or maternal history of depression). This study was a post hoc analysis from a previously conducted randomized controlled trial. Participants (n = 124; ages 18–42) were 7 months postpartum and had participated in a randomized trial examining the efficacy of an exercise intervention for the prevention of postpartum depression (study was conducted from January 2010 through November 2011). Participants completed questionnaires examining demographic characteristics and psychosocial variables at 6 weeks and 7 months postpartum. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered at 7 months postpartum to assess depression symptomatology. Sixty-eight percent of the participants reported that they were employed at 7 months postpartum. Employment at 7 months postpartum was associated with lower depression symptomatology (as measured by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) after controlling for condition assignment, marital status, and having other children. Among women who worked outside of the home, there were no differences between those who worked full-time versus part-time on depression symptomatology. Employment may be a protective factor for postpartum depression symptomatology; however, we cannot infer causation given this study’s cross-sectional design. Postpartum women at risk for depression who are contemplating employment should consider the possible protective effect of employment on depression.
Associations between player age and club soccer coaches’ perceptions of injury risk and lower extremity injury prevention program use
Authors: Morgan Elle A , Johnson Samuel T , Bovbjerg Viktor E , Norcross Marc F
Published: May 2017

The use of a lower extremity injury prevention program by female soccer players before the completion of puberty may mitigate movement changes that develop during puberty and contribute to post-pubescent females’ greater anterior cruciate ligament-injury risk. It is unknown whether club soccer coaches are using injury prevention programs with younger athletes and if player age is associated with soccer coaches’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding injury prevention programs. Fifty-four coaches of female soccer teams from Oregon and Washington states (USA) completed a web-based survey. Associations between team age (U9–U14 teams = 57 and U15–U19 teams = 19 teams) and coaches’ (a) attitudes and perceptions; and (b) injury prevention program awareness, adoption, and implementation fidelity were assessed. Coaches of U15–U19 teams perceived injuries to be more of a problem and soccer to present a high risk of injury. Coaches of older teams more strongly agreed that preventive exercises should be performed by their players during training. Injury prevention program awareness among coaches of U15–U19 and U9–U14 age groups was 79% and 60%, respectively. Injury prevention program-aware coaches of U15–U19 teams were more likely to use an injury prevention program than injury prevention program-aware coaches of U9–U14 teams (67% vs. 38%), but they were not more likely to do so with high fidelity (60% vs. 54%). Team age is associated with coaches’ short-term perceptions of injury risk, but not perceptions about the long-term ramifications of injury. Educating coaches about the potential benefits of injury prevention programs for mitigating injury-related maturational changes and the long-term ramifications of lower extremity injuries may facilitate greater use of injury prevention programs by coaches of younger female soccer players.
Augmented hamate replacement arthroplasty for fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joints in 12 patients
Authors: Thomas B. P. , Raveendran S. , Pallapati S. R. , Anderson G. A.
Published: May 2017

We report clinical outcomes in 12 patients with hemi-hamate replacement arthroplasty combined with volar plate arthroplasty. The volar plate was reattached using trans-osseous sutures to reconstruct the ligament-box complex after hamate grafting to augment the stability of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Ten patients had improved joint movement from a mean of 14° before surgery to a mean of 77° at a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Grip strength and pain of the affected hand and patient-rated hand and wrist scores were improved in these 10 patients. Two patients had poor results. One patient developed ankylosis, and one patient had resorption of the grafted bone. We conclude that the augmented hamate replacement arthroplasty is useful in treating chronic proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations.

Level of evidence: IV
Tension pneumothorax presenting as ST segment elevation: Look, Listen, Act!
Authors: Chada Aditya Naraian , Pothineni Naga Venkata Krishna Chand , Kovelamudi Swathi , Raghavan Deepa S.
Published: May 2017

We present a unique case of a patient with a tension pneumothorax that presented with electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics typical for ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. The clinical diagnosis was clinched by focused physical examination. Treatment of the pneumothorax lead to resolution of the electrocardiographic abnormalities. Our experience from this unique case is useful for cardiologists and critical care physicians who encounter these patients routinely.
Triceps tendon rupture: repair and rehabilitation
Authors: Kocialkowski Cezary , Carter Rebecca , Peach Chris
Published: May 2017

Triceps tendon ruptures are rare injuries and are frequently missed on initial presentation to the emergency department. In cases of complete rupture, surgical repair is recommended but no guidelines exist on the optimum reconstructive technique or rehabilitation. We present a surgical technique and rehabilitation programme for the management of these injuries. A midline posterior incision is performed, the ruptured triceps tendon is identified and mobilized, and the tendon footprint is prepared. The tendon is then repaired using bone suture anchors, with a parachute technique, and held in 40° of flexion. The rehabilitation programme is divided into five phases, over a period of 12 weeks. Range of movement is gradually increased in a brace for the first 6 weeks. Rehabilitation is gradually increase in intensity, progressing from isometric extension exercises to weight-resisted exercises, and finally plyometrics and throwing exercises. Our surgical technique provides a solid tendon repair without the need for further metalwork removal. The graduated rehabilitation programme also helps to protect the integrity of the repair at the same time as enabling patients to gradually increase the strength of the triceps tendon and ultimately return to sport activities.