bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertain Risks: Salmon Science, Harm, and Ignorance in Canada
Authors: Viatori Maximilian
Published: April 2019

In this article, I examine the public testimonies of expert witnesses during a Canadian federal commission charged with investigating the reasons for dramatic declines of sockeye salmon returning to British Columbia's Fraser River in 2009. These testimonies were intended to provide a foundation of expert opinion upon which clear policy recommendations could be made. However, the hearings were beset by debates over the ability of scientific research to assess harms to wild salmon. Through a discursive analysis of knowledge performances during the commission's hearings, I argue that neoliberalized approaches to evaluating harm and risk enable the production of uncertainty as a political strategy for blocking regulation and letting markets solve ecological crises. Furthermore, my analysis of expert testimonies underscores the degree to which public discussions of science and ecological crises are about the performance of (non)knowledge and why more scientific information has little impact on their outcomes. [uncertainty, risk, ignorance, science, salmon]
The endocytic pathways of carbon dots in human adenoid cystic carcinoma cells
Authors: Wei Yuanyuan , Jin Xiaoye , Kong Tingting , Zhang Wenqing , Zhu Bofeng
Published: April 2019

Objectives

This study aimed at investigating cellular uptake pathways of carbon dots (CDs) in human adenoid cystic carcinoma cell line ACC‐2.

Materials and methods

We synthesized CDs using a hydrothermal method with citric acid and polyethylenimine (PEI, Mw = 25 000). The CDs incubated with the ACC‐2 cells showed their bioimaging capabilities using a confocal microscopy test. Flow cytometry was used to analyse cellular uptake pathways of CDs in ACC‐2 cells.

Results

Our findings indicated that CDs possessed good biocompatibility in ACC‐2 cells. CDs were endocytosed mainly via micropinocytosis and energy‐dependent pathways.

Conclusions

In general, these findings suggested that CDs had excellent biomedical imaging properties for ACC‐2 cells and there was a potential opportunity to develop biomedical applications.
Teaching Quantum Mechanics to Over 28,000 Nonscientists
Authors: Freericks J. K. , Cutler D. , Kruse A. , Vieira L. B.
Published: April 2019

We describe a new style of MOOC designed to engage students with an immersive multimedia environment including text, images, video lectures, computer-based simulations, animations, and tutorials. Quantum Mechanics for Everyone is currently running on edX and has been successful by a number of different measures. Building on the pioneering work of many, it illustrates both how one can teach complex quantum phenomena to nonscientists and how one can develop high-quality interactive computer simulations that engage students and can be widely deployed.
Direct adaptive equalization based on fast sparse recursive least squares algorithms for multiple-input multiple-output underwater acoustic communications
Authors: Qin Zhen , Tao Jun , Wang Xiaoyan , Luo Xinwei , Han Xiao
Published: April 2019

The sparse direct adaptive equalizer (DAE) has recently attracted much attention in underwater acoustic (UWA) communications for its improved performance compared with conventional non-sparse DAEs. The recursive least squares (RLS) type sparse DAEs were barely studied, mainly due to their high complexity despite fast convergence. This letter presents several low-complexity sparse RLS algorithms for multiple-input multiple-output UWA channel equalization. The resulting fast sparse RLS DAEs are tested to be effective and outperform their non-sparse counterpart by experimental results.
Advancing the Therapeutic Potential of Indoleamides for Tuberculosis
Authors: Lun Shichun , Tasneen Rokeya , Chaira Tridib , Stec Jozef , Onajole Oluseye K. , Yang Tian J. , Cooper Christopher B. , Mdluli Khisi , Converse Paul J. , Nuermberger Eric L. , Raj V. Samuel , Kozikowski Alan , Bishai William R.
Published: April 2019

Indole-2-carboxamide derivatives are inhibitors of MmpL3, the cell wall-associated mycolic acid transporter of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. In the present study, we characterized indoleamide effects on bacterial cell morphology and reevaluated pharmacokinetics and
in vivo
efficacy using an optimized oral formulation.
Tet38 of Staphylococcus aureus Binds to Host Cell Receptor Complex CD36–Toll-Like Receptor 2 and Protects from Teichoic Acid Synthesis Inhibitors Tunicamycin and Congo Red
Authors: Truong-Bolduc Q. C. , Wang Y. , Hooper D. C.
Published: April 2019

Using an affinity column retention assay, we showed that the purified Tet38 membrane transporter of
Staphylococcus aureus
bound specifically to host cell CD36 and to the complex CD36–Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2), but not to TLR-2 alone or TLR-2 and
S. aureus
lipoteichoic acid (LTA). We tested the effect of LTA on the internalization of
S. aureus
tet38
mutant QT7 versus RN6390 by A549 epithelial cells.
How to involve children and young people in what is, after all, their research
Authors: Preston Jenny , Stones Simon R , Davies Hugh , Phillips Bob
Published: April 2019

Third in a series of four articles addressing ethical approaches and issues in undertaking clinical research with children and young people.
Decreased epithelial to corneal thickness ratio in healthy fellow eyes of patients with unilateral bullous keratopathy
Authors: Kulikov Alexei N , Maltsev Dmitrii S , Kudryashova Elena V , Burnasheva Maria A
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To study the relationship between epithelial thickness (ET) and corneal thickness (CT) in healthy fellow eyes of patients with unilateral bullous keratopathy (BKP) and healthy subjects.

Methods

Seventeen BKP patients (nine males, eight females, 73.2±10.4 years) and 40 healthy individuals (20 males, 20 females, 69.5±9.8 years) were included. All participants received anterior segment optical coherence tomography and specular microscopy with calculation of endothelial cell density. ET, CT, stromal thickness and ET-to-CT ratio were defined automatically (within 2 mm central area). Central epithelial thickness (CET) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were measured manually at the corneal centre and stromal thickness and CET-to-CCT ratio were calculated.

Results

In healthy fellow eyes of BKP patients compared with eyes of healthy individuals ET was statistically significantly lower (p<0.001) while CT was statistically significantly higher (by 28.9 and 30.9 µm in 2 mm zone and corneal centre, respectively). Both 2 mm ET-to-CT ratio (0.091±0.01 and 0.10±0.004, respectively [p<0.001]) and CET-to-CCT ratio (0.083±0.006 and 0.97±0.005, respectively [p<0.0001]) were statistically significantly lower in healthy fellow eyes of BKP patients compared with eyes of healthy individuals. To identify healthy fellow eyes of BKP patients, area under curve for CET-to-CCT ratio and CET was 0.94 and 0.80, respectively (p=0.01), and for 2 mm ET-to-CT ratio and 2 mm ET was 0.91 and 0.80, respectively (p=0.03).

Conclusion

Decreased СET-to-СCT ratio resulting from simultaneous epithelial thinning and stromal thickening without significant corneal thickening indicates subclinical dysfunction of corneal endothelium in healthy fellow eyes in unilateral BKP patients.
Estimating the potential impact of the UK government’s sugar reduction programme on child and adult health: modelling study
Authors: Amies-Cull Ben , Briggs Adam D M , Scarborough Peter
Published: April 2019

Objective

To estimate the impact of the UK government’s sugar reduction programme on child and adult obesity, adult disease burden, and healthcare costs.

Design

Modelling study.

Setting

Simulated scenario based on National Diet and Nutrition Survey waves 5 and 6, England.

Participants

1508 survey respondents were used to model weight change among the population of England aged 4-80 years.

Main outcome measures

Calorie change, weight change, and body mass index change were estimated for children and adults. Impact on non-communicable disease incidence, quality adjusted life years, and healthcare costs were estimated for adults. Changes to disease burden were modelled with the PRIMEtime-CE Model, based on the 2014 population in England aged 18-80.

Results

If the sugar reduction programme was achieved in its entirety and resulted in the planned sugar reduction, then the calorie reduction was estimated to be 25 kcal/day (1 kcal=4.18 kJ=0.00418 MJ) for 4-10 year olds (95% confidence interval 23 to 26), 25 kcal/day (24 to 28) for 11-18 year olds, and 19 kcal/day (17 to 20) for adults. The reduction in obesity could represent 5.5% of the baseline obese population of 4-10 year olds, 2.2% of obese 11-18 year olds, and 5.5% of obese 19-80 year olds. A modelled 51 729 quality adjusted life years (95% uncertainty interval 45 768 to 57 242) were saved over 10 years, including 154 550 (132 623 to 174 604) cases of diabetes and relating to a net healthcare saving of £285.8m (€332.5m, $373.5m; £249.7m to £319.8m).

Conclusions

The UK government’s sugar reduction programme could reduce the burden of obesity and obesity related disease, provided that reductions in sugar levels and portion sizes do not prompt unanticipated changes in eating patterns or product formulation.
Mechanical stress in the inner bark of 15 tropical tree species and the relationship with anatomical structure
Authors: Lehnebach Romain , Doumerc Léopold , Clair Bruno , Alméras Tancrède
Published: April 2019

Recent studies have shown that the inner bark is implicated in the postural control of inclined tree stems through the interaction between wood radial growth and tangential expansion of a trellis fiber network in bark. Assessing the taxonomic extent of this mechanism requires a screening of the diversity in bark anatomy and mechanical stress. The mechanical state of bark was measured in 15 tropical tree species from various botanical families on vertical mature trees, and related to the anatomical structure of the bark. Significant tensile or compressive longitudinal stresses were observed in the stems of most species. Tensile longitudinal stress was observed in various botanical families and was always associated with fibers arranged in a trellis-like structure and strong dilatation of rays. The highest tensile stress was recorded in species with gelatinous fibers forming a treillis. Compressive stress was typically associated with a large amount of sclereids in the bark, supporting the differentiation of sclereids as a potential origin of the generation of longitudinal compressive stresses in bark. In species exhibiting both a fibrous trellis structure and a significant amount of sclereids, the sign of longitudinal stress may depend on the balance between these two mechanisms.
Indoor localization algorithm based on behavior-driven predictive learning in crowdsourced Wi-Fi environments
Authors: Labinghisa Boney A. , Lee Dong Myung
Published: April 2019

The indoor localization algorithm based on the behavior-driven predictive learning (BDPLA) executes machine-learning predictions by computing the shortest path from a starting location to a destination. The proposed algorithm selects a set of reference points (RPs) to predict the shortest path using all available RPs from the crowdsourced Wi-Fi environment. In addition, the proposed algorithm utilizes the collected received signal strength indicator (RSSI) values to determine the error distance. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the existing crowdsourced RSSI data can be calibrated to help decrease the inconsistent RSSI values among all received signals by reconstructing the values. The average error distance of 3.68 m achieved better results compared with the traditional fingerprint map with an average result of 6.96 m.
Nuclear radii from nuclear masses
Authors: Tavares O. A. P. , Medeiros E. L.
Published: April 2019

Single uncharged pion production in neutron- and proton-induced reactions on complex nuclei, combined with the nuclear Fermi Gas Model, has been used to evaluate the average equivalent radius of a [Formula: see text] nucleus directly from the experimental nuclear mass-values of [Formula: see text] and its neighbors [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] isobars. A simple formula without adjustable parameters has been derived which gives nuclear radius-values that are in good agreement with updated, equivalent root-mean-square (rms) radius-values derived from experiments for a set of 540 nuclides comprising spherical, quasi-spherical, stable and long-term half-life nuclides. We shall call by RFNM-approach the present method of nuclear radius determination.
INNOVATIVE ECOSYSTEM IN ENHANCING HI-TECH SME FINANCING: MEDIATING ROLE OF TWO TYPES OF INNOVATION CAPABILITIES
Authors: SONG HUA , CHEN SIJIE , GANGULY ANIRBAN
Published: April 2019

With the development of technological innovation and global economic integration, high-tech enterprises across the world have formed numerous innovation ecosystems with similar natural ecological characteristics. As a result, competition has shifted from single enterprise to supply chain network, and ultimately, to innovation ecosystem, which involves more participants and roles across multiple industries. The current study distinguished two innovation capabilities (internal innovation potential and collaborative open innovation), and two sources of innovation capabilities (internal integration and external integration) along with discussing the specific relationships among integration activities, innovation capabilities, and Hi-tech SMEs’ financing performance. It further explored how interactions between within and cross firm-boundary activities and collaboration exert influence on SMEs’ financing performance and manifested the importance of external collaborative networks to the competitiveness of SMEs.
To the Edge of Space — with Solar Energy
Authors: Loos Roland , Domjan Raphaël
Published: April 2019

SolarStratos is developing a solar powered airplane to fly in the 2020/2021 timeframe to the stratosphere. The goal is to demonstrate that renewable energy, namely solar energy allows flight at altitudes where no internal combustion engine or jet engine can operate, providing for sustainable flight.
Consecutive bouts of electrical stimulation-induced contractions alter ribosome biogenesis in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Kotani Takaya , Takegaki Junya , Takagi Ryo , Nakazato Koichi , Ishii Naokata
Published: April 2019

Ribosome biogenesis has been implicated in resistance exercise training (RET)-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy. However, it is unclear how increasing bouts of RET affects ribosome content and biogenesis. This was investigated in the present study using simulated RET where rat skeletal muscle is subjected to increasing bouts of electrical stimulation. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to the following seven groups: sedentary for 5 days (SED) or 6 wk (SED_6w), resistance-exercise trained with 1 bout (1B), 2 bouts (2B), 3 bouts (3B), 6 bouts (6B), and 18 bouts (18B). RET was simulated on the right gastrocnemius muscle by transcutaneous electric stimulation under isoflurane anesthesia, and a RET bout was given 3 times a week. Rats in 1B, 2B, and 3B groups showed increased 45S precursor (pre-) rRNA and 18S+28S rRNA content per muscle weight and elevated mRNA levels of c- myc and upstream binding factor (UBF). Increases in phosphorylated UBF and total cyclin D1 protein level were observed 48 h after RET; the former increased as a function of RET duration. In 3B, 6B, and 18B groups, the 18S+28S rRNA content per muscle weight was kept unchanged, and 45S pre-rRNA, cyclin D1, and phosphorylated UBF levels in 18B were lower than those in 3B. These results suggest that RET activates ribosome biogenesis and increases ribosome content through modulation of UBF and cyclin D1 activity at its early phase. Additional bouts of RET may not lead to a further increase in ribosome content per muscle weight through possibly the attenuation of transcription process.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Ribosome biogenesis has been implicated in resistance exercise training-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy. However, it remains unclear how this is influenced by the volume of repeated bouts of resistance exercise training. Using resistance exercise training model with rat skeletal muscle, we provide evidence that ribosome biogenesis is stimulated by the initial few bouts of resistance exercise training with no additional effect of further increase in the exercise bout.
Effects of short-term sprint interval and moderate-intensity continuous training on liver fat content, lipoprotein profile, and substrate uptake: a randomized trial
Authors: Motiani Kumail K. , Savolainen Anna M. , Toivanen Jussi , Eskelinen Jari-Joonas , Yli-Karjanmaa Minna , Virtanen Kirsi A. , Saunavaara Virva , Heiskanen Marja A. , Parkkola Riitta , Haaparanta-Solin Merja , Solin Olof , Savisto Nina , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Knuuti Juhani , Nuutila Pirjo , Kalliokoski Kari K. , Hannukainen Jarna C.
Published: April 2019

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and increased liver fat content (LFC) alter lipoprotein profile and composition and impair liver substrate uptake. Exercise training mitigates T2D and reduces LFC, but the benefits of different training intensities in terms of lipoprotein classes and liver substrate uptake are unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) or sprint interval training (SIT) on LFC, liver substrate uptake, and lipoprotein profile in subjects with normoglycemia or prediabetes/T2D. We randomized 54 subjects (normoglycemic group, n = 28; group with prediabetes/T2D, n = 26; age = 40–55 yr) to perform either MICT or SIT for 2 wk and measured LFC with magnetic resonance spectroscopy, lipoprotein composition with NMR, and liver glucose uptake (GU) and fatty acid uptake (FAU) using PET. At baseline, the group with prediabetes/T2D had higher LFC, impaired lipoprotein profile, and lower whole body insulin sensitivity and aerobic capacity compared with the normoglycemic group. Both training modes improved aerobic capacity ( P < 0.001) and lipoprotein profile (reduced LDL and increased large HDL subclasses; all P < 0.05) with no training regimen (SIT vs. MICT) or group effect (normoglycemia vs. prediabetes/T2D). LFC tended to be reduced in the group with prediabetes/T2D compared with the normoglycemic group posttraining ( P = 0.051). When subjects were divided according to LFC (high LFC, >5.6%; low LFC, <5.6%), training reduced LFC in subjects with high LFC ( P = 0.009), and only MICT increased insulin-stimulated liver GU ( P = 0.03). Short-term SIT and MICT are effective in reducing LFC in subjects with fatty liver and in improving lipoprotein profile regardless of baseline glucose tolerance. Short-term MICT is more efficient in improving liver insulin sensitivity compared with SIT.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In the short term, both sprint interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) reduce liver fat content and improve lipoprotein profile; however, MICT seems to be preferable in improving liver insulin sensitivity.
Parry–Romberg Syndrome with Uhthoff’s Phenomena: A Spectrum of Autoimmune Disease?
Authors: Asanad Samuel
Published: April 2019

Parry–Romberg syndrome (PRS) is a rare disorder characterized by unilateral facial atrophy. Currently, the pathogenesis of PRS is poorly understood and no definitive treatment is available. This article reports the case of a 51-year-old woman with progressive hemifacial atrophy following herpes zoster infection, who presented with a concomitant chronic history of heat-induced diplopia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed unilateral cerebral white matter, periventricular, and medial longitudinal fasciculus lesions. The patient’s diplopia resolved following treatment with valacyclovir. Infection has been previously considered as potential cause of PRS. However, herpes-induced PRS with ophthalmologic manifestations of Uhthoff’s phenomena has not previously been reported. The present case suggests that PRS may possibly have an autoimmune etiology resembling that of multiple sclerosis.
Gastric Siderosis and Ulceration from Intravenous Iron Supplementation Manifesting as Chronic Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ewing Donald , Brozovich Ava , Burns Ethan , Acosta Gonzalo , Hatcher Courtney , Patel Pragnesh , Anton Rose , Abraham Bincy , Samuel Leena
Published: April 2019

Iron deficiency is the most common etiology of anemia worldwide and is often managed with varying methods of iron supplementation. Although rare, oral iron supplementation can perpetuate iron deficiency anemia by causing gastric ulceration and upper gastrointestinal bleeding in high-risk populations. However, this complication has not been previously described with intravenous iron supplementation. We present a case of a 63-year-old male with severe iron deficiency anemia on biweekly intravenous iron infusions and weekly packed red blood cell transfusions who presented with melena over several months. Upper endoscopy demonstrated a clean-based gastric body ulcer and nonbleeding gastric varices. Histology of the gastric ulcer was suggestive of iron-induced gastric mucosal injury. This case demonstrates that frequent utilization of intravenous iron and packed red blood cell transfusions may predispose certain patients to the development of iron-induced gastritis and ulceration.
Elastic QoS Scheduling with Step-by-Step Propagation in IEEE 802.11e Networks with Multimedia Traffic
Authors: Ruscelli Anna Lina , Cecchetti Gabriele , Castoldi Piero
Published: April 2019

The spreading diffusion of wireless devices and the crowded coexistence of multimedia applications greedy of bandwidth and with strict requirements stress the service provisioning offered by wireless technologies. WiFi is a reference for wireless connectivity and it requires a continuous evolution of its mechanism in order to follow increasingly demanding service needs. In particular, despite the evolution of physical layer, some critical contexts, such as industrial networks, telemedicine, telerehabilitation, and virtual training, require further refined improvements in order to ensure the respect of strict real-time service requirements. In this paper an in-depth analysis of Dynamic TXOP HCCA (DTH) MAC enhanced centralized scheduler is illustrated and it is further refined introducing a new improvement, DTH with threshold. DTH and DTH with threshold can be integrated with preexisting centralized schedulers in order to improve their performances, without any overprovisioning that can negatively impact on the admission control feasibility test. Indeed, without modifying the centralized scheduler policy, they combine together the concepts of reclaiming transmission time and statistical estimation of the traffic profile in order to provide, at each polling, an instantaneous transmission time tailored to the variable traffic requirements, increasing, when necessary, the service data rate. These mechanisms can coexist with advanced physical layer-based solutions, providing the required service differentiation. Experimental results and theoretical analysis, based on elastic scheduler theory, show that they are effective especially in the case of Variable Bit Rate traffic streams in terms of transmission queues length, packets loss, delay, and throughput.
Elevated Prevalence of Abnormal Glucose Metabolism and Other Endocrine Disorders in Patients withβ-Thalassemia Major: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Li-Na , Chen Wei , Yang Yi , Xie Ying-Jun , Xiong Ze-Yu , Chen Di-Yu , Lu Dian , Liu Neng-Qing , Yang Ying-Hong , Sun Xiao-Fang
Published: April 2019

Background. Endocrinopathies are common in patients withβ-thalassemia major despite parenteral iron chelation therapy with deferoxamine. Prevalence of abnormal glucose metabolism in previous studies was controversial. The aim of this study was to discuss the prevalence of abnormal glucose metabolism inβ-thalassemia major based on a meta-analysis.Methods. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, Ovid, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Wanfang database, and Chinese National Knowledge Internet were searched for relevant articles. Two authors selected the articles according to the inclusion criteria and then extracted the data. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) inβ-thalassemia major was defined as the primary outcome. The prevalence with the 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was used to evaluate the proportion of abnormal glucose metabolism and other endocrine disorders in patients withβ-thalassemia major. Subgroup analyses were applied to explore the prevalence in different regions. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessment were also conducted.Results. A total of 44 studies with 16605 cases were included in this analysis. Diabetes mellitus was present in 6.54% (95% CI: 5.30%-7.78%). The fixed subgroup study revealed that the region with the highest prevalence was the Middle East (prevalence= 7.90%, 95% CI: 5.75%-10.05%). The accumulated meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of DM inβ-thalassemia major was relatively steady in each year. The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and other endocrine disorders inβ-thalassemia major was 17.21% (95% CI: 8.43%-26.00%), 12.46% (95% CI: 5.98%-18.94%), and 43.92% (95% CI: 37.94%-49.89%), respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed that the pooled results were robust; publication bias assessment revealed that there was no significant evidence that the pooled results were influenced by publication bias.Conclusion. High prevalence of endocrine disorders involving abnormal glucose metabolism was detected inβ-thalassemia major. Treatment and prevention measurements may be necessary to prevent growth and endocrine problems.
Adipokines Regulate the Expression of Tumor-Relevant MicroRNAs
Authors: Jasinski-Bergner Simon , Kielstein Heike
Published: April 2019

Background: Increasing prevalence of obesity requires the investigation of respective comorbidities, including tumor diseases like colorectal, renal, post-menopausal breast, prostate cancer, and leukemia. To date, molecular mechanisms of the malignant transformation of these peripheral tissues induced by obesity remain unclear. Adipose tissue secretes factors with hormone-like functions, the adipokines, and is therefore categorized as an endocrine organ. Current research demonstrates the ability of adipose tissue to alter DNA methylation and gene expression in peripheral tissues, probably affecting microRNA (miR) expression. Methods: Literature was analyzed for adipokine-regulated miRs. Many of these adipokine upregulated or downregulated miRs exert either oncogenic or anti-tumoral potential. Results: The three selected and analyzed adipokines, adiponectin, leptin, and resistin, induce more strongly oncogenic miRs and simultaneously reduce anti-tumoral miRs than vice versa. This effect is not only true for the pure number of regulated miRs, it is also the case by consideration of the abundance of the respective miR expression based on actual data sets derived from next-generation sequencing. Conclusion: The link of obesity and cancer is analyzed under the aspect of adipokine-regulated miRs. At the same time the impact of miR abundance is considered as a regulatory variable. This context offers new strategies for tumor therapy and diagnostics.
Influence of Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid-Use and Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid-Induced Coma on Affect and the Affective Network
Authors: Raposo Pereira Filipa , McMaster Minni T.B. , de Vries Yvon D.A.T. , Polderman Nikki , van den Brink Wim , van Wingen Guido A.
Published: April 2019

Background: Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a drug of abuse associated with increased emergency room attendances, due to GHB-induced comas. Withdrawal from GHB often increases social anxiety and is linked to alterations in emotion processing. However, little is known about the effects of GHB-use and GHB-induced comas on affect regulation in humans. Objectives: We aimed to assess the effect of GHB-use and GHB-induced comas on the affective network. Method: We recruited 27 GHB users with ≥4 GHB-induced comas (GHB-Coma), 27 GHB users without a GHB-induced coma (GHB-NoComa), and 27 polydrug users who never used GHB (No-GHB). Participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing negative affect (depression, anxiety and stress) and performed an emotional face matching task during functional magnetic resonance imaging to probe activity of the amygdala and the hippocampus. Results: The GHB-Coma group reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress; showed decreased activity of the hippocampus; and increased functional connectivity of the left hippocampus with the left fusiform gyrus and a cluster on the left temporal-parietal-occipital junction, when compared with the 2 other groups. The GHB-NoComa group showed decreased functional connectivity of the left hippocampus with the amygdala in comparison with the No-GHB group. Conclusions: GHB-use but in particular GHB-induced comas, are associated with altered emotion identification and hippocampal functioning. Awareness campaigns are required to raise consciousness about the adverse effects of GHB-induced comas on affect regulation, despite the absence of subjective side effects.
Seasonality in Mortality in a Cardiology Department: A Five-Year Analysis in 500 Patients
Authors: Vicent Lourdes , Bruña Vanesa , Devesa Carolina , Sousa-Casasnovas Iago , Juárez Miriam , Fernández-Avilés Francisco , Martinez-Sellés Manuel
Published: April 2019

Background: Previous studies have indicated that cardiovascular mortality follows a seasonal trend. The aim of this work was to determine the evolution of mortality throughout the year in a cardiology department. Methods: All admissions and deaths occurring in our Cardiology Department over a 5-year period (2013–2017) were recorded retrospectively. Results: From a total of 17,829 hospital admissions, 500 patients died (2.8%, 0.3 patients/day). The mean age of deceased patients was 74.2 ± 13.1 years, and 186 (37.2%) were women. Mortality ranged from 0.17 deaths/day in August to 0.40 deaths/day in February (p = 0.03), and from 0.20 deaths/day in summer to 0.36 deaths/day in winter (p = 0.001). There was also a trend towards a variation in hospitalizations, with a peak in January (10.5 admissions/day) and the lowest figure in August (7.0 admissions/day), p = 0.047. We found no significant seasonal trend regarding mortality rate with respect to the number of hospital admissions (p = 0.89). The most common cause of death was refractory heart failure (267 patients [65.8%]). A noncardiac cause of death was observed in 134 patients (26.8%). Conclusions: In a cardiology department, there are twice as many deaths in winter as in summer. Hospitalizations also tend to be more frequent in winter than in summer.
Multimorbidity in Asthma, Allergic Conditions and COPD Increase Disease Severity, Drug Use and Costs: The Finnish Pharmacy Survey
Authors: Jantunen Juha , Haahtela Tari , Salimäki Johanna , Linna Miika , Mäkelä Mika , Pelkonen Anna , Kauppi Paula
Published: April 2019

Background: Asthma, allergic conditions, and COPD overlap, but the effect of them and their combinations on disease severity, need for drugs, use of healthcare, and costs is poorly known. Objective: To study how different allergic diseases co-occur in asthma and allergy patients and evaluate the use of medication well as drug and healthcare costs. Methods: Nationwide Allergy Barometer Survey was carried out in the Finnish pharmacies during 1 week in September 2016. Altogether, 956 patients (5–75 years) who purchased asthma or allergy drugs with prescription participated in 351 pharmacies. Results: Of the participants, 78% reported physician-diagnosed asthma, 57% allergic rhinitis, 24% atopic eczema, 21% food allergy, 20% allergic conjunctivitis, 8% anaphylaxis, and 8% COPD. One-third of the patients had at least three conditions, and multimorbidity was common across all age groups. Disease severity increased with the number of coexisting conditions, and asthma severity also with age. Patients with asthma alone used on average 3.8 drugs with the annual costs of EUR 661. This increased to 4.9 drugs and EUR 847 in asthmatics with multimorbidity. For all participants, costs of drugs and healthcare services together during the preceding year were on average EUR 1,214, of which 56% were drug costs. The costs doubled to EUR 2,714 in 65 subjects (7%) who had both asthma and COPD. Conclusions: In asthma and allergy, multimorbidity and polypharmacy are major concerns. Disease severity, drug use, and costs increased with multimorbid conditions. To reduce the burden, allergy management should be better integrated and more comprehensive.
Sex Influence on the Efficacy and Safety of Sacubitril/Valsartan
Authors: Vicent Lourdes , Ayesta Ana , Esteban-Fernández Alberto , Gómez-Bueno Manuel , De-Juan Javier , Díez-Villanueva Pablo , Iniesta Ángel Manuel , Rojas-González Antonio , Bover-Freire Ramón , Iglesias Diego , García-Aguado Marcos , Perea-Egido Jesús A. , Martínez-Sellés Manuel
Published: April 2019

Background: Women are underrepresented in sacubitril/valsartan (SV) clinical trials. The aim of this study was to assess sex-specific differences in efficacy, tolerability, and safety of SV in real-world heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients. Methods: A prospective registry in 10 centers including all patients who started SV during the last 6 months was analyzed in this study. Results: A total of 427 patients were included, 126 (29.5%) were women. There were no substantial differences in HFrEF treatment before SV initiation, although fewer women than men carried an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (57 [45.2%] vs. 173 [58.1%], p = 0.02). SV starting dose was 24/26 mg b.i.d. in 206 patients (48.2%), 49/51 mg b.i.d. in 184 (43.1%), and 97/103 mg b.i.d. in 34 (8.2%), without relevant differences associated to sex. There were no losses during a mean follow-up of 7.0 ± 0.1 months. The proportion of patients who discontinued the drug (16 [12.7%] women vs. 33 [11.0%] men, p = 0.66) or presented SV-related adverse effects (31 [24.6%] women vs. 79 [26.5%] men, p = 0.72) was also similar in both sexes. However, female sex was an independent predictor of functional class improvement in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio 2.33, 95% confidence interval: 1.24–4.38, p = 0.04). Conclusions: SV in women with HFrEF has a similar tolerability as in men. Females seem to have a more frequent functional class improvement than males.
How Effective Is Retrograde Semirigid and Flexible Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy for the Treatment of Large Ureteral Stones Equal of or Greater than 15 mm? Results from a Single Center
Authors: Kozyrakis Diomidis G. , Kratiras Zisis K. , Perikleous Stefanos K. , Zarkadas Anastasios P. , Chatzistamoy Styliani-Elissavet E. , Karagiannis Dimitrios K. , Solinis Ioannis T.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To present the results and complications of retrograde ureteroscopic lithotripsy for treatment of large ureteral stones. Methods: Nineteen patients were treated for ureteral stones ≥15 mm detected in CT or plain KUB film. Endoscopy was performed with either a semirigid or flexible ureteroscope. Stone fragmentation was performed using a 30 W Holmium laser. Results: The mean stone size was 20.7 mm (range 15–30). The mean duration of the operation was 82 min (45–140). Measures to prevent retropulsion of fragments into the kidney were not routinely applied. A subsequent RIRS during the same session was necessary in 2 cases. After a single procedure a stone free state was achieved in 15 cases (78.9%), while 4 others required a second session (ESWL or second ureterolithotripsy, 2 cases each). In only 1 patient, the stone-free state was not achieved after a 1.2 procedure per patient (overall success rate 94.7%). The mean duration of hospitalization was 1.9 days (range 1–5). Three patients experienced postoperative pyelonephritis and 2 others prolonged hematuria. Conclusion: Endoscopic lithotripsy is safe and effective in treating large ureteral stones. After a single endoscopic procedure, approximately 4 out of 5 patients are expected to become stone free. This rate increases to 95% with a second session of lithotripsy.
Assessment of Intermittent Self-Catheterization Procedures in Patients with Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: Dutch Translation and Validation of the Intermittent Catheterization Satisfaction Questionnaire, Intermittent Catheterization Acceptance Test, Intermittent Self Catheterization Questionnaire and Intermittent Catheterization Difficulty Questionnaire
Authors: Hervé François , Ragolle Inge , Amarenco Gérard , Viaene Annick , Guinet-Lacoste Amandine , Bonniaud Véronique , Everaert Karel
Published: April 2019

Background: Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) is by far the most appealing therapy to achieve a complete bladder emptying in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). Four questionnaires have been developed in French in order to assess patient’s satisfaction, difficulties and acceptance of this technique. Objectives: The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt and validate Dutch versions of the Intermittent Catheterization Satisfaction Questionnaire (InCaSaQ), the Intermittent Catheterization Acceptance Test (ICAT), the Intermittent Self Catheterization Questionnaire (ISCQ) and the Intermittent Catheterization Difficulty Questionnaire (ICDQ). Methods: (1) Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the questionnaires were performed according to the standardized guidelines. (2) The test of the pre-final version was performed by a group of bilingual lay people by comparing the original version of the questionnaires and the back translated one, assessing the comparability of language and comparability of interpretation. (3) Problematic issues were reviewed for correction. (4) Reliability was examined by intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) statistics and Cronbach alpha analysis. Results: Pre-test by 45 raters who are fluent in the source language led to an adapted and improved version of the translated questionnaires. Fifty native Dutch-speaking patients performing ISC (>6 months) due to an NLUTD were prospectively included. InCaSaQ, ICAT, ISCQ and ICDQ showed good internal consistency (α respectively (test and re-test): 0.79–0.88, 0.88–0.92, 0.85–0.88, and 0.88–0.86) and reproducibility (ICC respectively 0.77, 0.84, 0.84, and 0.87). Conclusion: The translated versions of InCaSaQ, ICAT, ISCQ and ICDQ are reliable and valid, allowing self-reported assessment of satisfaction, acceptance, difficulties and quality of life related to ISC in Dutch-speaking patients with NLUTD.
Glycemic Status and Thromboembolic Risk in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Fangel Mia Vicki , Nielsen Peter Brønnum , Kristensen Jette Kolding , Larsen Torben Bjerregaard , Overvad Thure Filskov , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Jensen Martin Bach
Published: April 2019

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, and differences in glycemic status may affect this risk. We aimed to examine the effect of glycemic status evaluated by hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) on the risk of thromboembolism among patients with atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods:

In this cohort study, we used data from Danish registries to identify patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and incident nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in the period of May 1, 2005, through December 31, 2015. On the basis of the most recent HbA1c measurement before an incident atrial fibrillation diagnosis, patients were divided into the categories: HbA1c ≤48 mmol/mol, HbA1c=49–58 mmol/mol, and HbA1c >58 mmol/mol. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate hazard ratios for the outcome thromboembolism.

Results:

The study population included 5386 patients with incident nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Compared with patients with HbA1c ≤48 mmol/mol, we observed a higher risk of thromboembolism among patients with HbA1c=49–58 mmol/mol (hazard ratio, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.09–2.05) and HbA1c >58 mmol/mol (hazard ratio, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.13–2.22) after adjusting for confounding factors. When stratified on diabetes mellitus duration, similar results were found among patients with diabetes mellitus duration of <10 years. Contrastingly, in patients with diabetes mellitus duration of ≥10 years, higher HbA1c levels were not associated with a higher risk of thromboembolism.

Conclusions:

In patients with incident atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes mellitus, increasing levels of HbA1c were associated with a higher risk of thromboembolism. However, no association was found among patients with diabetes mellitus duration ≥10 years.
Praying for Justice: The World Council of Churches and the Program to Combat Racism
Authors: Burlingham Kate
Published: April 2019

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, individuals around the world, particularly those in newly decolonized African countries, called on churches, both Protestant and Catholic, to rethink their mission and the role of Christianity in the world. This article explores these years and how they played out in Angola. A main forum for global discussion was the World Council of Churches (WCC), an ecumenical society founded alongside the United Nations after World War II. In 1968 the WCC devised a Program to Combat Racism (PCR), with a particular focus on southern Africa. The PCR's approach to combating racism proved controversial. The WCC began supporting anti-colonial organizations against white minority regimes, even though many of these organizations relied on violence. Far from disavowing violent groups, the PCR's architects explicitly argued that, at times, violent action was justified. Much of the PCR funding went to Angolan revolutionary groups and to individuals who had been educated in U.S. and Canadian foreign missions. The article situates global conversations within local debates between missionaries and Angolans about the role of the missions in the colonial project and the future of the church in Africa.
Decentering the Cold War in Southern Africa: The Portuguese Policy of Decolonization and Détente in Angola and Mozambique (1974–1984)
Authors: Reis Bruno C.
Published: April 2019

Contrary to the expectations of many, the break between Portugal and its former colonies in southern Africa was far from complete after decolonization. This article points to three major reasons. First, the impact on relations with Angola and Mozambique of the fragmentation of Portuguese state power and tense polarization in the Portuguese polity after the military coup of 24 April 1974 has been overstated and was far from entirely negative. Second, diplomatic relations were normalized between Portugal, Angola, and Mozambique during the Cold War in a way that has significant parallels with West Germany's Ostpolitik. Portugal's Südpolitik saw a cultural identity worth preserving despite geopolitical divisions and pushed for better relations and deepened ties with these states to help move them away from strict alignment with the Soviet bloc. Third, officers of the Armed Forces Movement that carried out the April 1974 coup exercised a fundamental, positive influence in Portuguese policies toward Angola and Mozambique during decolonization and for years afterward.
Spigelia L. (Loganiaceae), a newly recorded genus in China
Authors: LIANG DAN , JIANG GUO-BIN , WANG GANG-TAO , GUO YA-NAN , LIU ZI-YUE , WANG RUI-JIANG
Published: April 2019

The neotropical species Spigelia anthelmia L. was firstly collected from China. Morphological characters are described and photographed in detail for further taxonomic identification. The species has become an invasive species in tropical Asia already, but not dispersed to the local ecosystem in Hainan yet, probably because of the short time of naturalization.
Genus Bungona Harker, 1957 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) from China, with descriptions of three new species and a key to Oriental species
Authors: SHI WEIFANG , TONG XIAOLI
Published: April 2019

Six species of Bungona Harker, including three species of the subgenus Centroptella Braasch & Soldán and three species of subgenus of Chopralla Waltz & McCafferty, are reported from China. Of which, three new species, Bungona (Centroptella) ovata sp. nov., Bungona (Centroptella) quadrata sp. nov. and Bungona (Chopralla) bifida sp. nov., are described based on nymphal materials. In addition, Bungona (Chopralla) liebenauae (Soldán, Braasch & Muu, 1987) that was previously known only from Vietnam is newly recorded in China. An identification key to Bungona species known from Oriental Region is presented.
A new leaf-mining moth, Caloptilia aesculi, sp. nov. (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae: Gracillariinae) feeding on Aesculus chinensis Bunge (Hippocastanaceae) from China
Authors: LIAO CHENGQING , OHSHIMA ISSEI , HUANG GUOHUA
Published: April 2019

A new species of the genus Caloptilia associating with the Chinese horse chestnut, Aesculus chinensis Bunge (Hippocastanaceae) from China is described. The photographs of the adults, male and female genitalia, larva and pupa, the leaf mines and leaf shelters (rolls and stacks) are given. This is the first report of host association with Hippocastanaceae in the subfamily Gracillariinae. The sequence of mitochondrial COI barcoding region of this species is provided and its phylogenetic position is analyzed with other Caloptilia species.
A new species of black fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) in the Simulium (Simulium) multistriatum species-group from Thailand
Authors: THAIJARERN JIRAPORN , WONGPAKAM KOMGRIT , KANGRANG ANONGRIT , PRAMUAL PAIROT
Published: April 2019

A new black fly species of the Simulium multistriatum species-group of the subgenus Simulium Latreille is described from the mountainous area in northeastern Thailand, based on morphology and mitochondrial DNA sequences. The new species is morphologically similar to S. laui Takaoka and Sofian-Azirun and S. lacduongense Takaoka and Ya’cob originally described from Vietnam, S. fenestratum Edwards originally described from Indonesia and S. chaliowae Takaoka and Boonkemtong originally described from Thailand, but can be distinguished in the adult stage by the number of upper eye facets and globular shape of the spermatheca and in the pupal stage by the cocoon and shape of thoracic tubercles. Genetic distance and phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I sequences differentiated the new species from other members of S. multistriatum species-group. All specimens of the new species formed a monophyletic clade with strong support in all phylogenetic analyses. The minimum interspecific genetic distance of 4.9% is considerably greater than the new species maximum intraspecific genetic distance (2.7%).
Mediated Public Diplomacy Redefined: Foreign Stakeholder Engagement via Paid, Earned, Shared, and Owned Media
Authors: Golan Guy J. , Manor Ilan , Arceneaux Phillip
Published: April 2019

Mediated public diplomacy literature examines the engagement of foreign audiences by governments via mediated channels. To date, scholars have examined the competitive contest between global rivals in promoting and contesting one another’s frames as reflected in global news media coverage. Recognizing the meaningful impact of social media platforms, along with the global rise of government-sponsored media organizations, the current study builds on previous mediated public diplomacy scholarship by expanding the scope of the literature beyond the earned media perspective to also include paid, shared, and owned media. The article presents a revised definition of the term mediated public diplomacy along with a case study of government to foreign stakeholder engagement via the social media platform, Twitter.