bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Effects of Weight Loss and Exercise on Biomarkers Associated with Angiogenesis
Authors: Duggan Catherine , Tapsoba Jean de Dieu , Wang Ching-Yun , Schubert Karen E. Foster , McTiernan Anne
Published: October 2017

Background: We tested the effect of weight loss on circulating levels of the angiogenic factors VEGF and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) in postmenopausal overweight/obese women, 18 months after completing a year-long 4-arm randomized controlled trial of behavioral weight loss and/or exercise versus control (i.e., 30 months postrandomization).

Methods: The 439 overweight/obese, postmenopausal women, ages 50 to 75 years, were randomized to: diet (goal: 10% weight loss, N = 118), exercise (225 min/wk moderate-to-vigorous activity, N = 117), diet + exercise (N = 117), or control (N = 87). At 12 months, 399 women gave a blood sample; 156 returned at 30 months. Biomarkers were measured by immunoassay. Changes were compared using generalized estimating equations, adjusting for baseline BMI, age, and race/ethnicity.

Results: Participants randomized to diet, exercise, and diet + exercise arms had greater reductions in VEGF at 30 months (−14.1% P = 0.02; −19.7% P = 0.003; −14.5% P = 0.002, respectively) versus controls (−4.5%). There were no statistically significant changes in PEDF in any intervention arm. Participants maintaining ≥10% of baseline weight loss at 30 months had greater reductions in VEGF versus those who gained weight/had no weight change (−22.3% vs. −10.2% respectively, P = 0.002). Participants maintaining any weight loss had significantly lower levels of PEDF at 30 months versus those who gained weight/no weight change.

Conclusions: Sustained weight loss via diet and/or exercise results in reductions in angiogenic factors, and can be maintained up to 30-month follow-up. Limitations include relatively small numbers, and possible bias toward more successful weight loss among women who returned at 30 months.

Impact: Maintaining weight loss can achieve long-term reductions in biomarkers of angiogenesis that can persist up to 18 months after completion of a weight loss intervention. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1788–94. ©2017 AACR.
Efficacy and Safety of Systemic Therapies for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Network Meta-Analysis of Phase III Trials
Authors: Cucchetti Alessandro , Piscaglia Fabio , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Djulbegovic Benjamin , Mazzotti Federico , Bolondi Luigi
Published: October 2017

Aim/Background: After the introduction of sorafenib in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), different studies tried to evaluate whether other systemic therapies can improve survival. To provide a comprehensive indirect treatment comparison of efficacy and safety of novel drugs, a network meta-analysis (NMA) of phase III randomized controlled trials was performed. Methods: After pertinent literature search up to November 1, 2016, 6 studies were eligible for the analysis including 4,812 individual patients with advanced HCC: 2,454 received sorafenib, 577 received brivanib, 530 received sunitinib, 514 received linifanib, 358 received sorafenib + erlotinib and 379 received placebo. Frequentist NMA was used to compare treatments within a single analytical framework. Results: NMA showed that sorafenib alone, regardless of combination with erlotinib, and linifanib provide a significant survival advantage over placebo (p < 0.05) but without any significant difference between each other. Conversely, all regimens significantly ameliorate progression-free survival versus placebo (p < 0.05). The rank order of efficacy was: sorafenib ± erlotinib, linifanib, brivanib, sunitinib, and placebo. Sorafenib ± erlotinib was the regimen with the fewest number of adverse events that required discontinuation of treatment, whereas linifanib and brivanib resulted in the most adverse events. The risk-benefit summary identified one cluster of therapies with a similar balance between efficacy and safety which included sorafenib alone or in combination with erlotinib, having, at the same time, the highest efficacy and safety. Conclusions: Sorafenib remains the best systemic treatment for advanced HCC; linifanib also resulted in survival advantages over placebo but with a lower safety profile.
Prospective Comparison of Gd-EOB-DTPA-Enhanced MRI with Dynamic CT for Detecting Recurrence of HCC after Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Imai Yasuharu , Katayama Kazuhiro , Hori Masatoshi , Yakushijin Takayuki , Fujimoto Kenji , Itoh Toshifumi , Igura Takumi , Sakakibara Mitsuru , Takamura Manabu , Tsurusaki Masakatsu , Takahashi Hiroto , Nakanishi Katsuyuki , Usuki Noriaki , Tsuji Koh , Ohashi Hiroshi , Kim Tonsok , Takehara Tetsuo , Murakami Takamichi
Published: October 2017

Background: We prospectively compared the efficacy of gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with that of dynamic multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) for detection of recurrent hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods: Institutional review board approval and written informed consent were obtained for this multicenter study. Ninety-seven HCC patients treated with curative RFA underwent both Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and dynamic MDCT every 3-4 months. HCC diagnosis was made based on the typical enhancement pattern of HCC on MRI and/or CT by on-site consensus reading. Two blinded observers independently assessed image datasets to compare diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Results: Recurrence was observed in 48 of 97 patients. Among these, 22 were diagnosed by both Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and MDCT; the remainder were diagnosed by only one of these 2 modalities. Recurrence was diagnosed in more patients by Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI than by MDCT (44 vs. 26 patients, p < 0.001). Patient-based analysis revealed that the accuracy, sensitivity, and AUROC of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI were significantly higher than those of MDCT for both observers (p < 0.005). The AUROC of Gd-EOB-DTPA- enhanced MRI and MDCT was 0.95 and 0.76 for observer 1 and 0.90 and 0.74 for observer 2, respectively. The κ values for MRI and MDCT were 0.83 and 0.70, respectively. Conclusions: Compared with dynamic MDCT, Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI had higher diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity for detection of recurrent hypervascular HCC and may be a better tool for following patients after RFA.
Spinal Cord Injury Following Antegrade Scrotal Sclerotherapy for Varcicocele: A Case Report
Authors: Rossi Maxime , Jacobs Daniel , Wespes Eric , Roumeguère Thierry , Raynal Pierre
Published: October 2017

Varicocele is one of the causes of male infertility. Treatment aims to improve the chance of conception despite lasting controversies about benefits of varicocele repair on fertility. Many techniques have been described for varicocele management including the antegrade scrotal sclerotherapy (ASS). Interestingly, ASS is often presented as a safe, easy, and cost-effective procedure with low recurrence and complication rates. However, we report the first case of spinal cord paralysis following ASS probably due to embolization of venous anastomoses between left spermatic and ascending lumbar veins, which were undetected at preoperative phlebography. Based on this case and recent literature, we raise questions about the safety of ASS and try to figure out what would be the best way to improve the detectability of potential harmful anastomoses at preoperative phlebography.
Leonurine Prevents Atherosclerosis Via Promoting the Expression of ABCA1 and ABCG1 in a Pparγ/Lxrα Signaling Pathway-Dependent Manner
Authors: Jiang Ting , Ren Kun , Chen Qian , Li Heng , Yao Rong , Hu Hu , Lv Yun-Cheng , Zhao Guo-Jun
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Previous studies have demonstrated that leonurine, a unique alkaloid compound of Herba leonuri, can exert anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects on the development of atherosclerosis (AS). This study was designed to investigate the effects of leonurine on cholesterol efflux from THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells and development of atherosclerotic lesions in apoE-/- mice, and further determine the potential mechanisms. Methods: Human THP-1 cells were fully differentiated into foam cells by the pre-treatment with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and oxidized density lipoproteins (ox-LDL). After cells were incubated with various concentrations of leonurine, Oil Red O staining and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assays were utilized to detect cellular lipid accumulation and cholesterol content, respectively. Cellular cholesterol efflux was determined by liquid scintillation counting. The mRNA and protein levels of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1/G1 (ABCA1/G1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and liver X receptor α (LXRα) in foam cells were assessed using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot analyses, respectively. Plasma triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in apoE-/- mice were evaluated using enzymatic methods. The atherosclerotic lesion sizes and collagen contents in aortic roots were determined by Oil Red O and Masson’s trichrome staining, respectively. Results: Oil Red O staining and liquid scintillation counting assays showed that leonurine significantly inhibited lipid accumulation and promoted 3H-cholesterol efflux in human THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Besides, both the mRNA and protein levels of ABCA1/G1, PPARγ and LXRα were enhanced by leonurine, which were attenuated by LXRα siRNA or PPARγ siRNA transfection. Finally, leonurine improved plasma lipid profile, decreased atherosclerotic lesion sizes, increased collagen contents and amplified PPARγ, LXRα and ABCA1/G1 expressions in aortic roots of apoE-/- mice. Conclusions: Leonurine can promote cholesterol efflux and alleviate cellular lipid accumulation by magnifying the expression of ABCA1/G1 in a PPARγ/LXRα signaling pathway-dependent manner in human THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells and abate atherogenesis in apoE-/- mice, which may offer a promising therapeutic intervention of leonurine in protecting against AS.
Recent Insights into the Biological Functions of Sestrins in Health and Disease
Authors: Wang Menglong , Xu Yao , Liu Jianfang , Ye Jing , Yuan Wenhui , Jiang Huimin , Wang Zhen , Jiang Hong , Wan Jun
Published: October 2017

Sestrins (Sesns) have been identified as a family of highly conserved stress-inducible proteins that are strongly up-regulated by various stresses, including DNA damage, oxidative stress, and hypoxia. The Sesns play protective roles in most physiological and pathological conditions mainly through the regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and metabolic homeostasis. In this review, we discussed the possible regulators of Sesns expression, such as p53, forkhead box O, nuclear factor erythroid 2 like 2 (Nrf2), NH (2)-terminal kinase (JNK)/c-Jun pathway and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (Hif-1α), and the downstream pathways regulated by the Sesns including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling, Nrf2 signaling, NADPH oxidase signaling and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling in heart diseases, lung diseases, gastrointestinal tract diseases, liver and metabolism diseases, neurological diseases, kidney diseases and immunological diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding the protective effects of Sesns.
Calcium-Sensing Receptor Stimulation in Cultured Glomerular Podocytes Induces TRPC6-Dependent Calcium Entry and RhoA Activation
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ji Tianrong , Wang Qin , Meng Kexin , Zhang Rui , Yang He , Liao Chang , Ma Linlin , Jiao Jundong
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Recent studies provided compelling evidence that stimulation of the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) exerts direct renoprotective action at the glomerular podocyte level. This protective action may be attributed to the RhoA-dependent stabilization of the actin cytoskeleton. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: In the present study, an immortalized human podocyte cell line was used. Fluo-3 fluorescence was utilized to determine intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and western blotting was used to measure canonical transient receptor potential 6 (TRPC6) protein expression and RhoA activity. Stress fibers were detected by FITC-phalloidin. Results: Activating CaSR with a high extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]o) or R-568 (a type II CaSR agonist) induces an increase in the [Ca2+]i in a dose-dependent manner. This increase in [Ca2+]i is phospholipase C (PLC)-dependent and is smaller in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ than in the presence of 0.5 mM [Ca2+]o. The CaSR activation-induced [Ca2+]i increase is attenuated by the pharmacological blockage of TRPC6 channels or siRNA targeting TRPC6. These data suggest that TRPC6 is involved in CaSR activation-induced Ca2+ influx. Consistent with a previous study, CaSR stimulation results in an increase in RhoA activity. However, the knockdown of TRPC6 significantly abolished the RhoA activity increase induced by CaSR stimulation, suggesting that TRPC6-dependent Ca2+ entry is required for RhoA activation. The activated RhoA is involved in the formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions in response to CaSR stimulation because siRNA targeting RhoA attenuated the increase in the stress fiber mediated by CaSR stimulation. Moreover, this effect of CaSR activation on the formation of stress fibers is also abolished by the knockdown of TRPC6. Conclusion: TRPC6 is involved in the regulation of stress fiber formation and focal adhesions via the RhoA pathway in response to CaSR activation. This may explain the direct protective action of CaSR agonists.
Relationship Between Visit-to-Visit Blood Pressure Variability (BPV) and Kidney Function in Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Jeffers Barrett W. , Zhou Duo
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: To investigate the impact of kidney function (using estimated glomerular filtration rate, [eGFR]) on blood pressure variability (BPV) via a retrospective post hoc analysis of patients with hypertension enrolled in two large clinical trials. Methods: Subject-level data were extracted from ASCOT (N=18,852) and ALLHAT (N=26,441) databases; both were randomized, active controlled studies, with treatment duration for hypertension ≥4 years. Visit-to-visit BPV was assessed using the square root of the coefficient of variation of systolic blood pressure (SBP) across visits from 12 weeks onwards. Baseline GFR, estimated by the simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation, was stratified into ≤60, 61-90, and >90 mL/min/1.73 m2. The relationship between baseline eGFR and systolic BPV was analyzed using an analysis of covariance, with baseline factors considered as covariates. Studies were pooled and analyzed individually. Results: Patient characteristics were largely consistent between studies. In the pooled population (n=38,133) there were 19.1%, 62.9%, and 18.0% patients, with eGFR ≤60, 61-90, and > 90 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Patients with lower baseline eGFR had higher systolic BPV, in the pooled population and the individual analyses. Other baseline predictors of high systolic BPV included high SBP and age, being male, and a smoker. An amlodipine-based regimen was a negative predictor of high systolic BPV, vs. other antihypertensives, regardless of eGFR. Conclusions: Patients with declining renal function tended to have higher systolic BPV vs. those without, even after adjusting for risk factors. Amlodipine-based therapy reduced BPV more than other antihypertensive agents, regardless of level of eGFR.
Mortality and Cerebrovascular Events After Heart Rhythm Disorder Management Procedures
Authors: Lee Justin Z. , Ling Jayna , Diehl Nancy N. , Hodge David O. , Padmanabhan Deepak , Killu Ammar M. , Madhavan Malini , Noseworthy Peter A. , Kapa Suraj , McLeod Christopher J. , Cha Yong-Mei , Deshmukh Abhishek J. , Srivathsan Komandoor , Kusumoto Fred M. , Shen Win-Kuang , Friedman Paul A. , Munger Thomas M. , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Packer Douglas L. , Mulpuru Siva K.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Recognition of rates and causes of hard, patient-centered outcomes of death and cerebrovascular events (CVEs) after heart rhythm disorder management (HRDM) procedures is an essential step for the development of quality improvement programs in electrophysiology laboratories. Our primary aim was to assess and characterize death and CVEs (stroke or transient ischemic attack) after HRDM procedures over a 17-year period.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients undergoing HRDM procedures between January 2000 and November 2016 at the Mayo Clinic. Patients from all 3 tertiary academic centers (Rochester, Phoenix, and Jacksonville) were included in the study. All in-hospital deaths and CVEs after HRDM procedures were identified and were further characterized as directly or indirectly related to the HRDM procedure. Subgroup analysis of death and CVE rates was performed for ablation, device implantation, electrophysiology study, lead extraction, and defibrillation threshold testing procedures.

Results:

A total of 48 913 patients (age, 65.7±6.6 years; 64% male) who underwent a total of 62 065 HRDM procedures were included in the study. The overall mortality and CVE rates in the cohort were 0.36% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.31–0.42) and 0.12% (95% CI, 0.09–0.16), respectively. Patients undergoing lead extraction had the highest overall mortality rate at 1.9% (95% CI, 1.34–2.61) and CVE rate at 0.62% (95% CI, 0.32–1.07). Among patients undergoing HRDM procedures, 48% of deaths directly related to the HDRM procedure were among patients undergoing device implantation procedures. Overall, cardiac tamponade was the most frequent direct cause of death (40%), and infection was the most common indirect cause of death (29%). The overall 30-day mortality rate was 0.76%, with the highest being in lead extraction procedures (3.08%), followed by device implantation procedures (0.94%).

Conclusions:

Half of the deaths directly related to an HRDM procedure were among the patients undergoing device implantation procedures, with cardiac tamponade being the most common cause of death. This highlights the importance of the development of protocols for the quick identification and management of cardiac tamponade even in procedures typically believed to be lower risk such as device implantation.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health and Incident Cardiovascular Disease: Heterogeneity Across Event Subtypes and Mediating Effect of Blood Biomarkers: The PRIME Study
Authors: Gaye Bamba , Tafflet Muriel , Arveiler Dominique , Montaye Michèle , Wagner Aline , Ruidavets Jean‐Bernard , Kee Frank , Evans Alun , Amouyel Philippe , Ferrieres Jean , Empana Jean‐Philippe
Published: October 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the association between baseline cardiovascular health (
CVH
) and incident cardiovascular disease differs according to coronary heart disease (
CHD
) and stroke subtypes, and to assess the mediating effect of inflammatory and hemostatic blood biomarkers.

Methods and Results

The association of ideal
CVH
with outcomes was derived in 9312 middle‐aged men from Northern Ireland and France (whole cohort) in multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. The mediating effect of baseline inflammatory and hemostatic blood biomarkers was evaluated in a case–control study nested within the cohort after 10 years of follow‐up. After a median follow‐up of 10 years, 614 first
CHD
events and 117 first stroke events were adjudicated. Compared with those with poor
CVH
, those with an ideal
CVH
profile at baseline had a 72% lower risk of
CHD
(hazard ratio=0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.17; 0.46) and a 76% lower risk of stroke (hazard ratio =0.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.06; 0.98). The magnitude of the risk reductions was similar for incident angina and myocardial infarction, but was lower for ischemic stroke. In the controls, the mean concentrations of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein,
IL
‐6, and fibrinogen decreased with higher
CVH
status. Furthermore, the association of behavioral
CVH
with incident
CHD
was partly mediated by high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (16.69%),
IL
‐6 (8.52%), and fibrinogen (7.30%)

Conclusions

Our study shows no clear heterogeneity in the association of baseline
CVH
with the main subtypes of cardiovascular disease. This supports a universal promotion of ideal
CVH
for all cardiovascular disease subtypes. Furthermore, our mediation analysis suggests that the lower risk of
CHD
associated with ideal
CVH
is partly mediated by lower inflammatory and hemostatic blood biomarkers.
Sex Differential in 15‐Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenase Levels in the Lumen of Human Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Chalouhi Nohra , Jabbour Pascal , Zanaty Mario , Starke Robert M. , Torner James , Nakagawa Daichi , Hasan David M.
Published: October 2017

Background

Aspirin is a promising medical therapy for the prevention of intracranial aneurysm (
IA
) rupture. Recently, we found that men have a better response to aspirin than women. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a sex differential exists in the level of 15‐hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (15‐
PGDH
) in the lumen of human
IA
s.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients undergoing coiling or stent‐assisted coiling for a saccular
IA
at our institution were enrolled. Two samples (A and B) were collected from
IA
lumens, and the plasma level of 15‐
PGDH
was measured using an
ELISA
‐based method. The study included 38 patients, with 20 women and 18 men. Women and men were comparable on baseline characteristics. The mean plasma concentration of 15‐
PGDH
did not differ statistically between sample A (62.8±16.2 ng/mL) and sample B (61.8±17.9 ng/mL; 95% confidence interval −6.6 to 9.4). The mean plasma concentration of 15‐
PGDH
in
IA
lumens of samples A and B was significantly higher in men (73.8±13.5 ng/mL) than women (49.6±7.8 ng/mL;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions

Higher enzyme levels of 15‐
PGDH
exist in the lumen of
IA
s of men compared with women. This observation could explain why aspirin confers better protection against
IA
rupture in men than in women. The susceptibility of an individual to aspirin may differ according to the level of 15‐
PGDH
.
Kultur und Identität. Wörtliches Übersetzen in der Septuaginta
Authors: Ziegert Carsten
Published: October 2017

This article seeks to evaluate why the translators of the Septuagint often preferred literal to free renderings. After some general remarks on levels of literalness the author evaluates possible explanations for the literal renderings in the Septuagint. An alternative interpretation draws on the theories of the translation theorists Schleiermacher (1813) and Venuti (1995). It explains literalism as being rooted in the desire for conservation of the Jewish identity within the context of Hellenistic culture with the hebraicizing style serving as a means of resistance to Hellenism.
Who Conquered Hebron? Apologetic and Polemical Tendencies in the Story of Caleb in Josh 14
Authors: Kugler Gili
Published: October 2017

This paper analyzes the story of Caleb and Hebron in Joshua 14 in relation to the traditions of Caleb’s involvement in the spies’ mission in the desert and other traditions regarding the conquest of Hebron. Comparison of the different traditions reveals the narrator’s endeavor to legitimize the presence of non-Judean groups within the territory of Judah towards the end of the first temple period, while at the same time challenging the image of Joshua as the pan-Israelite conqueror of the land.
The More, The Better? Assessing the Scope of Regional Autonomy as a Key Condition for Ethnic Conflict Regulation
Authors: Schulte Felix
Published: October 2017

Territorial autonomies are increasingly implemented as tools for regulating ethnic conflicts. Since there are successful as well as failed cases, the ongoing debate about a general conflict-solving potential is not a very fruitful one. The article turns towards the analysis of various factors affecting the success of conflict regulating autonomies. It is argued that successful conflict regulation highly depends on the scope of self-rule transferred to a rebelling group. It offers two approaches to measure the scope and success of autonomies and introduces the Autonomy Scope Index (asi). The relevance of the degree of autonomy is tested on the basis of a global data set on all conflict regulating autonomies since 1945 by using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (qca). The study shows that a substantial degree of self-rule is indeed a crucial condition.
DNA barcoding and morphological data reveal a new Hyposoter (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Porizontinae) reared from a rare zygaenid moth Artona flavipuncta Hampson, 1900 in Taiwan
Authors: CHEN YOUNG-FA , HUANG CHIA-LUNG , HSU YU-FENG
Published: October 2017

A new species of Hyposoter Foerster, 1869 is discovered based on morphology of adults and cocoons, biology, and DNA barcoding evidence. It is herein described as Hyposoter distriangulum Chen, Huang & Hsu sp. nov. , which is a common parasitoid of a rare zygaenid moth Artona flavipuncta Hampson, 1900. The differences between similar Hyposoter species in Japan and Taiwan are also presented.
Enhanced Irrigant Delivery to the Ethmoid Sinuses Directly Following Ethmoid Punch Sinusotomy
Authors: Abuzeid Waleed M. , Peterson Asa Z. , Rathor Aakanksha , Xu Jordan C. , Velasquez Nathalia , Rashan Ali R. , Thamboo Andrew , Nayak Jayakar V.
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

Ethmoid punch sinusotomy (EPS) is a feasible treatment for ethmoid sinusitis in a subset of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients per a recent report. This adjunctive work investigates the technical characteristics of EPS and determines if EPS measurably alters the topical delivery of irrigant into the ethmoid sinuses in a cadaveric model.

Methods:

The sinonasal cavities of 10 human cadaver heads were irrigated with a solution containing methylene blue and radio-opaque contrast prior to and following EPS. Procedural characteristics and irrigant distribution were assessed by endoscopy and computed tomography.

Results:

Forty EPS procedures were performed through the ethmoid bulla and basal lamella. Compared to controls, EPS enhanced dye distribution into the anterior (90% vs 35%, P < .004) and posterior (90% vs 35%, P < .002) ethmoid sinuses, representing a 157% increase for each of these sites. Contrast was detected in a higher proportion of anterior (65% vs 5%, P < .001) and posterior (60% vs 0%, P < .001) ethmoid sinuses. Endoscopically guided catheter instillation of contrast through the EPS sites achieved radiotracer distribution throughout the ethmoid complex.

Conclusions:

Ethmoid punch sinusotomy sites can be reliably created via micro-minimally invasive procedures. Ethmoid punch sinusotomy improves irrigant delivery to the ethmoid sinuses, providing mechanistic understanding for the clinical outcomes observed in CRS patients.
How (wo)men rebel
Authors: Schaftenaar Susanne
Published: October 2017

Previous studies find a strong relationship between armed conflict and gender equality, but only compare armed conflict to no armed conflict onset. However, opposition movements use different means to challenge governments, such as nonviolent or armed strategies. This study explores this variation and poses the question: How does the level of gender equality affect the onset of nonviolent campaigns and armed conflicts? It makes two contributions. First, I quantitatively test the impact of gender equality on different forms of conflict onset, and second, I propose a comprehensive gendered mobilization argument based on strategic choice theory. Nonviolent campaigns rely on mass participation, and the nonviolent conflict literature claims that they are open to a wider array of participants, including women, compared to armed conflicts. I argue that gender norms affect movements’ expectations of mobilization (mass or limited) as well as conflict norms (nonviolent or violent) in society, and subsequently, the choice of conflict strategy. I hypothesize that higher levels of gender equality, measured by fertility rate and female-to-male primary school enrolment ratio, increase the likelihood of nonviolent campaign onset, compared to both armed and no campaign onset. This study analyses country-year data from the UCDP and NAVCO datasets between 1961 and 2006 and finds that increases in gender equality are, on average, associated with an increased likelihood of nonviolent conflict onset.
The plight of refugees in Africa
Authors: Mutongu Zablon Bundi
Published: October 2017

This article examines the plight of refugees in Africa with a special focus on the problems associated with them. Specific issues highlighted include the definition of refugees; the dependency characteristics developed in refugee camps; the economic constraints on the hosting communities; the security problems associated with refugees; efforts by United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR); and the current working environment in Africa.
Migrant and refugee children
Authors: Gideon Rohan P.
Published: October 2017

In this article I argue that the growing plight of migrant children can be better understood when seen at the intersections of geopolitics, gender, class and especially age discrimination. Their plight is composed of journeys and border crossings. As a theological activity, I engage the predicaments of migrant children with the theology of incarnation in the light of new developments in children-related theologies. The theology of incarnation offers inclusive notions of migration and resources to resist and interrogate exclusion. A fresh view of incarnation as the birth and movement of a human child provides a compelling understanding to accept migrant children as the signs of God’s presence.
Difficult texts: Koinonia, Acts 2.42
Authors: Mahohoma Takesure
Published: October 2017

The word koinonia is rich with meaning. It describes the relationship within the early Christian Church. It is a relationship that is based on trust, friendship and confidence. The relationship included the breaking of bread and teaching by the apostles. Generally, koinonia includes fellowship, association, community, communion and interdependence.
Difficult texts: Mark 16.8
Authors: Morgan Robert
Published: October 2017

The Roman lectionary solves the problem of anticlimax by cutting out the problem at verse 8 and stopping at Mark 16.7. This plays havoc with some commentators’ accounts of Mark’s intentions. The scenario suggested here implies that the liturgists may accidentally have got Mark right. If this reconstruction is entertained, their mutilation of Mark no longer spoils his literary and theological design.
Effect of unsaturation on physicochemical properties of maleic anhydride–grafted acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer
Authors: Manaf Olongal , Sheeja  , Jowhar Ameen , Sujith Athiyanathil
Published: October 2017

In order to find out the shift of ductile nature of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymer to brittle nature while maleic anhydride (MA) grafting, the iodine value of different MA-grafted ABS (MA-g-ABS) sampled has been determined. The iodine value of thermoplastic polymer is found by Wijs method with slight modification to overcome the poor solubility of thermoplastics in tetrachloromethane. Different samples with varying MA content were prepared using internal mixer. All the specimens were characterized by attenuated total reflectance IR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The iodine value measurements revealed that grafting and cross-linking evidently reduced the unsaturation in ABS polymer matrix. The grafting of MA causes the decrease in impact strength, flexural modulus, and a significant increase in crystallinity, tensile strength, yield point, and flexural strength, whereas thermal stability remains intact. Field emission scanning electron microscope images showed noticeable difference in broken surface texture between ABS and grafted samples.
Cognitive behavioural therapy halves the risk of repeated suicide attempts: systematic review
Authors: Gøtzsche Peter C , Gøtzsche Pernille K
Published: October 2017

Objective

To study whether cognitive behavioural therapy decreases suicide attempts in people with previous suicide attempts.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Setting

Randomised trials that compare cognitive behavioural therapy with treatment as usual.

Participants

Patients who had engaged in any type of suicide attempt in the six months prior to trial entry resulting in presentation to clinical services.

Main outcome measure

Suicide attempt.

Results

We included ten trials, eight from Cochrane reviews and two from our updated searches (1241 patients, 219 of whom had at least one new suicide attempt). Cognitive behavioural therapy compared to treatment as usual reduced the risk of a new suicide attempt; risk ratio 0.47; 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.73; p = 0.0009; I2 = 57%. Only seven suicides were reported (3 versus 4). One trial had an unusually large effect; if this trial is excluded, the risk ratio becomes 0.61 (0.46–0.80) and the heterogeneity in the results disappears (I2 = 0%).

Conclusions

Cognitive behavioural therapy reduces not only repeated self-harm but also repeated suicide attempts. It should be the preferred treatment for all patients with depression.
Formation mechanism of dolomite reservoir controlled by fourth-order sequence in an evaporated marine environment – An example from the Lower Ordovician Tongzi Formation in the Sichuan Basin
Authors: Zhu Dongya , Zhang Dianwei , Liu Quanyou , Xing Fengcun , He Zhiliang , Zhang Rongqiang , Liu Zihao
Published: October 2017

The high-porosity dolomite reservoirs of the Lower Ordovician Tongzi Formation (Fm.) were widely developed in the Sichuan Basin of southern China. The characteristics and developing mechanisms of the high-porosity dolomite reservoirs under the control of fourth-order sequence boundaries are discussed. In the Tongzi stage of the Early Ordovician, the Sichuan Basin was in a restricted platform facies in an evaporated shallow seawater environment. From the western to eastern regions of the basin, the Tongzi Fm. was serially developed in a tidal flat-lagoon-high-energy shoal depositional system. The evaporated seawater consequently led to dolomitization by way of the refluxing model. The Tongzi Fm. dolomites were subdivided into four coarsening-upward fourth-order sequences. Many tiny dissolution pores were formed in the dolomite beneath the four fourth-order sequence boundaries due to syn-sedimentation meteoric water erosion. Exposure above the seawater due to the short-term fall of the relative sea level consequently led to contemporaneous meteoric erosion. The Tongzi Fm. dolomites in the belt surrounding the Central Paleo-uplift were further subaerially dissolved by meteoric water due to tectonic uplift in the Guangxi Movement since the end of the Silurian period. Therefore, dolomitization, syn-sedimentation meteoric erosion under the fourth-order sequence boundaries, and meteoric karst during the Guangxi tectonic uplift jointly controlled the development of the Tongzi Formation high-porosity dolomite reservoirs. In the eastern and southeastern Sichuan Basin, the favourable reservoirs are the high-energy shoal dolomites that were eroded by meteoric water under fourth-order sequence boundaries. Around the Central Paleo-uplift, the favourable reservoirs are the dolomites dissolved by subaerial meteoric karst during the Guangxi Movement.
Postoperative complications after lower extremity arterial bypass increase the risk of new deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Aziz Faisal , Lehman Erik , Blebea John , Lurie Fedor
Published: October 2017

Background

Deep venous thrombosis after any surgical operations is considered a preventable complication. Lower extremity bypass surgery is a commonly performed operation to improve blood flow to lower extremities in patients with severe peripheral arterial disease. Despite advances in endovascular surgery, lower extremity arterial bypass remains the gold standard treatment for severe, symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. The purpose of this study is to identify the clinical risk factors associated with development of deep venous thrombosis after lower extremity bypass surgery.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons’ NSQIP database was utilized and all lower extremity bypass procedures performed in 2013 were examined. Patient and procedural characteristics were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors for the development of postoperative deep venous thrombosis.

Results

A total of 2646 patients (65% males and 35% females) underwent lower extremity open revascularization during the year 2013. The following factors were found to be significantly associated with postoperative deep venous thrombosis: transfusion >4 units of packed red blood cells (odds ratio (OR) = 5.21, confidence interval (CI) = 1.29–22.81, p = 0.03), postoperative urinary tract infection (OR = 12.59, CI = 4.12–38.48, p < 0.01), length of hospital stay >28 days (OR = 9.30, CI = 2.79–30.92, p < 0.01), bleeding (OR = 2.93, CI = 1.27–6.73, p = 0.01), deep wound infection (OR = 3.21, CI = 1.37–7.56, p < 0.01), and unplanned reoperation (OR = 4.57, CI = 2.03–10.26, p < 0.01). Of these, multivariable analysis identified the factors independently associated with development of deep venous thrombosis after lower extremity bypass surgery to be unplanned reoperation (OR = 3.57, CI = 1.54–8.30, p < 0.01), reintubation (OR = 8.93, CI = 2.66–29.97, p < 0.01), and urinary tract infection (OR = 7.64, CI = 2.27–25.73, p < 0.01). Presence of all three factors was associated with a 54% incidence of deep venous thrombosis.

Conclusions

Development of deep venous thrombosis after lower extremity bypass is a serious but infrequent complication. Patients who require unplanned return to the operating room, reintubation, or develop a postoperative urinary tract are at high risk for developing postoperative deep venous thrombosis. Increased monitoring of these patients and ensuring adequate deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis for such patients is suggested.
Dutch courage? Effects of acute alcohol consumption on self-ratings and observer ratings of foreign language skills
Authors: Renner Fritz , Kersbergen Inge , Field Matt , Werthmann Jessica
Published: October 2017

Aims:

A popular belief is that alcohol improves the ability to speak in a foreign language. The effect of acute alcohol consumption on perceived foreign language performance and actual foreign language performance in foreign language learners has not been investigated. The aim of the current study was to test the effects of acute alcohol consumption on self-rated and observer-rated verbal foreign language performance in participants who have recently learned this language.

Methods:

Fifty native German speakers who had recently learned Dutch were randomized to receive either a low dose of alcohol or a control beverage that contained no alcohol. Following the experimental manipulation, participants took part in a standardized discussion in Dutch with a blinded experimenter. The discussion was audio-recorded and foreign language skills were subsequently rated by two native Dutch speakers who were blind to the experimental condition (observer-rating). Participants also rated their own individual Dutch language skills during the discussion (self-rating).

Results:

Participants who consumed alcohol had significantly better observer-ratings for their Dutch language, specifically better pronunciation, compared with those who did not consume alcohol. However, alcohol had no effect on self-ratings of Dutch language skills.

Conclusions:

Acute alcohol consumption may have beneficial effects on the pronunciation of a foreign language in people who have recently learned that language.
Making science suburban: The suburbanization of industrial research and the invention of “research man”
Authors: Vitale Patrick S
Published: October 2017

In the early 1900s, industrial firms embraced research as a key element of corporate strategy. In order to internalize scientific research, firms constructed laboratories many of which were located away from factories. The development of these laboratories was part of a larger shift in the socio-spatial division of labor – the separation of mental from physical work. These laboratories were sites for developing new technologies and production processes and for creating and reproducing a techno-scientific workforce that allied itself with management. Using the example of Pittsburgh-based Westinghouse, in this paper I argue that industrial firms built research laboratories in order to enlist a skilled techno-scientific workforce that was essential for further profit making. By exploring the longer history of the industrial research laboratory, I expose how the “knowledge economy” and “tech workers” did not originate in the suburbs of the 1950s or the tech-boom of the 1990s, but rather emerged in concert with industrialization, the emergence of corporations, the professionalization of science and engineering, and suburbanization at the turn of the 20th-century.
The Kingdom of God, Hope and Christian Ethics
Authors: Gushee David P. , Norred Codi D.
Published: October 2017

This article interrogates the use of a Kingdom-of-God narrative frame, in the work both of progressive evangelicals Glen Stassen and David Gushee ( Kingdom Ethics) and in liberation theology, claiming that this narrative has often inspired hope and moral action but can be questioned on a variety of theological and methodological grounds. It considers startling recent claims by liberation ethicist Miguel De la Torre that all talk of a coming Kingdom of God is mythic, a middle-class illusion that undermines radical commitment to ethical praxis for justice. Engagement with two classic liberationist texts (by Gustavo Gutiérrez and James Cone) confirms both that liberation theology offers a somewhat radicalized Kingdom-of-God narrative and that De la Torre’s new claims represent a clear break with liberationism. The article concludes by briefly considering options in eschatology for those who have heretofore invested considerable hope in an immanentist, participative, certainly-coming Kingdom-of-God narrative to ground their Christian ethics.
The effect of aluminum phosphinate on char formation of phosphorus-containing deoxybenzoin polymer
Authors: Hu Xilong , Wang Yan , Yu Junrong , Zhu Jing , Hu Zuming
Published: October 2017

The introduction of aluminum diethlyphosphinate (AlPi; <2% by weight) to 4,4′-bishydroxydeoxybenzoin-polyphosphonates (BHDB-PPNs) increased the char yield rate of BHDB-PPN from about 54% to 63% at 600°C. The increase of char yield rate might be attributed to the reaction among the degraded products from AlPi and BHDB-PPN to form stable intermediates which increased the activation energy of cleavage of P–C bond in the BHDB-PPN and reduced the release of benzene to the gas phase. It was found that the char yielded from BHDB-PPN and BHDB-PPN/AlPi comprised about 90% carbon element, which was characterized as main sp2 carbon structure by Raman spectrum.
Ductilizing of cast hypereutectic Al–17%Si alloy by friction stir processing
Authors: Saini Nitin , Pandey Chandan , Dwivedi Dheerendra Kumar
Published: October 2017

In present research work, multi-pass friction stir processing was utilized for the as-cast Al–17%Si alloy. The multi-pass friction stir processing reproduced the aluminum (Al) matrix with a uniform distribution of the ultra-fine silicon (Si) particles. The multi-pass friction stir processing also resulted in the formation of refining cast microstructure with negligible porosity. The significant reduction in silicon particle size was measured and it reduced from 204 µm to 0.86 µm after the first pass and up to 0.30 µm after two pass friction stir processing. The frequency of fine Si particles was increased after two pass friction stir processing as compared to single pass friction stir processing. The engineering stress–strain curves revealed a significant enhancement in ductility and strength after one and two passes of friction stir processing as compared to the as-cast alloy. After one and two passes of friction stir processing, the ultimate tensile strength of as-cast alloy was enhanced by 24% and 31% and ductility was increased by 300% and 500%, respectively. The secondary electron micrograph of fracture surfaces of tensile specimens was taken before and after friction stir processing. The fractographs revealed the transformation from brittle mode to ductile dimples fracture after the multi-pass friction stir processing process.
Comparison of Anti-Xa Activity in Patients Receiving Apixaban or Rivaroxaban
Authors: Bookstaver David A. , Sparks Kimberly , Pybus Brandon S. , Davis Dustin K. , Marcsisin Sean R. , Sousa Jason C.
Published: October 2017

Background: There is no established method for monitoring the anticoagulant effects of apixaban and rivaroxaban. Linear correlation between serum levels and anti-Xa activity has been shown, with r2 ranging from 0.88 to 0.99. However, there are minimal data in patients receiving apixaban 5 mg twice daily or rivaroxaban 20 mg once daily. Objective: To evaluate the anti-Xa activity and serum levels at those doses and compare the trough anti-Xa activity. Methods: This was a single-center prospective study,approved by the institutional review board. Patients on an inappropriate dose or receiving an interacting drug were excluded. Blood samples were drawn 0.5 to 3 hours before a dose for both agents, 2 to 3 hours after an apixaban dose, and 12 to 16 hours after a rivaroxaban dose. Anti-Xa activity and serum levels were determined, and correlation was done via regression analysis. Trough anti-Xa activity was compared using a t-test. Results: The study enrolled 88 patients receiving each drug. The r2 values were 0.79 and 0.87 for apixaban and rivaroxaban, respectively. The mean trough anti-Xa activity was 1.79 ± 0.96 IU/mL for apixaban and 1.25 ± 0.88 IU for rivaroxaban ( P < 0.01). The trough sample was drawn a mean of 1.3 and 1.8 hours prior to the next dose for apixaban and rivaroxaban, respectively ( P < 0.01). Conclusions: Good correlation was shown between anti-Xa activity and serum levels. The clinical utility of monitoring anti-Xa activity and the significance of the difference in trough anti-Xa activity for these agents remains to be established.
The Continuing Evolution of Ethical Standards for Genomic Sequencing in Clinical Care: Restoring Patient Choice
Authors: Wolf Susan M.
Published: October 2017

Developing ethical standards for clinical use of large-scale genome and exome sequencing has proven challenging, in part due to the inevitability of incidental or secondary findings. Policy of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) has evolved but remains problematic. In 2013, ACMG issued policy recommending mandatory analysis of 56 extra genes whenever sequencing was ordered for any indication, in order to ascertain positive findings in pathogenic and actionable genes. Widespread objection yielded a 2014 amendment allowing patients to opt-out from analysis of the extra genes. In 2015, ACMG published the amended policy, providing that patients could opt out of the full set of extra genes, but not a subset. In 2016, ACMG enlarged the set and indicated planned expansion of the roster of extra genes to include pharmacogenetic findings. ACMG policy does not protect the respect for patient choice that prevails in other domains of clinical medicine, where informed consent allows patients to opt in to desired testing. By creating an expanding domain of genomic testing that will be routinely conducted unless patients reject the entire set of extra tests, ACMG creates an exceptional domain clinical practice that is not supported by ethics or science.