bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Discrete Grey Model and Its Application
Authors: Wu Wen-Ze , Jiang Jianming , Li Qi
Published: December 2019

This paper aims to further increase the prediction accuracy of the grey model based on the existing discrete grey model, DGM(1,1). Herein, we begin by studying the connection between forecasts and the first entry of the original series. The results comprehensively show that the forecasts are independent of the first entry in the original series. On this basis, an effective method of inserting an arbitrary number in front of the first item of the original series to extract messages is applied to produce a novel grey model, which is abbreviated as FDGM(1,1) for simplicity. Incidentally, the proposed model can even forecast future data using only three historical data. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model, two classical examples of the tensile strength and life of the product are employed in this paper. The numerical results indicate that FDGM(1,1) has a better prediction performance than most commonly used grey models.
Elevated Intraocular Pressure Causes Abnormal Reactivity of Mouse Retinal Arterioles
Authors: Gericke Adrian , Mann Carolina , Zadeh Jenia Kouchek , Musayeva Aytan , Wolff Ismael , Wang Maoren , Pfeiffer Norbert , Daiber Andreas , Li Huige , Xia Ning , Prokosch Verena
Published: December 2019

Objective. Glaucoma is a leading cause of severe visual impairment and blindness. Although high intraocular pressure (IOP) is an established risk factor for the disease, the role of abnormal ocular vessel function in the pathophysiology of glaucoma gains more and more attention. We tested the hypothesis that elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) causes vascular dysfunction in the retina. Methods. High IOP was induced in one group of mice by unilateral cauterization of three episcleral veins. The other group received sham surgery only. Two weeks later, retinal vascular preparations were studied by video microscopy in vitro. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and expression of hypoxia markers and of prooxidant and antioxidant redox genes as well as of inflammatory cytokines were determined. Results. Strikingly, responses of retinal arterioles to stepwise elevation of perfusion pressure were impaired in the high-IOP group. Moreover, vasodilation responses to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator, acetylcholine, were markedly reduced in mice with elevated IOP, while no differences were seen in response to the endothelium-independent nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside. Remarkably, ROS levels were increased in the retinal ganglion cell layer including blood vessels. Expression of the NADPH oxidase isoform, NOX2, and of the inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α, was increased at the mRNA level in retinal explants. Expression of NOX2, but not of the hypoxic markers, HIF-1α and VEGF-A, was increased in the retinal ganglion cell layer and in retinal blood vessels at the protein level. Conclusion. Our data provide first-time evidence that IOP elevation impairs autoregulation and induces endothelial dysfunction in mouse retinal arterioles. Oxidative stress and inflammation, but not hypoxia, appear to be involved in this process.
SCHOPENHAUER E O ESPINOSISMO DO IDEALISMO ALEMÃO
Authors: Silva Helio Lopes da
Published: December 2019

Neste artigo vou avaliar a opinião a respeito das semelhanças entre a filosofia de Schopenhauer e aquela dos Idealistas Alemães. Recorrendo principalmente aos manuscritos de Schopenhauer anteriores à fase madura de sua filosofia, vou tentar mostrar que, apesar do arcabouço idealista-espinosista no qual ele teve que se acomodar, a filosofia de Schopenhauer difere radicalmente daquela dos Idealistas Alemães.
TRABALHO E HISTÓRIA: ESPINOSA E A GÊNESE DO DIREITO COMUM
Authors: David Antônio
Published: December 2019

Assunto pouco estudado na obra de Espinosa, o trabalho ocupa centralidade em seu pensamento acerca do direito comum. Através do exame das ocorrências do trabalho nos dois tratados políticos, bem como da observância da correta tradução de opera mutua, procura-se jogar nova luz sobre a história em Espinosa, em particular sobre a gênese do direito comum e sobre as ideias de justiça e injustiça nesse autor.
OLDENBURG: O MAIS PROLÍFICO CORRESPONDENTE DE ESPINOSA
Authors: Ferreira Samuel Thimounier
Published: December 2019

Este artigo compõe uma biografia de Henry Oldenburg (ca. 1615-1677), apresentando um retrato, na concretude de sua vida, mais ou menos fiel de um dos principais missivistas de Espinosa. Da recolha bibliográfica, quisemos responder à pergunta que define parte importante do pano de fundo da mais duradoura e prolífica troca de cartas com o filósofo holandês: quem é Oldenburg? Sobretudo, foi preciso apresentar, como ponto de partida, a humanidade de tão importante correspondente, a fim de evitar, na leitura das cartas, que ele se tornasse um mero indivíduo sem face a quem Espinosa deu algumas frases.
Two-Year Outcomes After Deferral of Revascularization Based on Fractional Flow Reserve
Authors: Kuramitsu Shoichi , Matsuo Hitoshi , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Horie Kazunori , Takashima Hiroaki , Terai Hidenobu , Kikuta Yuetsu , Ishihara Takayuki , Saigusa Tatsuya , Sakamoto Tomohiro , Suematsu Nobuhiro , Shiono Yasutsugu , Mizuno Atsushi , Tsujita Kenichi , Masamura Katsuhiko , Yokoi Hiroyoshi , Tanaka Nobuhiro ,   on behalf of the J-CONFIRM Registry Investigators
Published: December 2019

Background:

The safety of fractional flow reserve (FFR)-based deferral of revascularization remains to be fully established in real-world practice. We sought to assess clinical outcomes after deferral of revascularization based on FFR.

Methods:

The J-CONFIRM registry (Long-Term Outcomes of Japanese Patients With Deferral of Coronary Intervention Based on Fractional Flow Reserve in Multicenter Registry) prospectively enrolled 1263 patients with 1447 lesions in whom revascularization was deferred based on FFR at 28 Japanese centers. The primary study end point was the cumulative 2-year incidence of target vessel failure, including cardiac death, target-vessel related myocardial infarction, and clinically driven target vessel revascularization.

Results:

The mean FFR was 0.86±0.06. At 2 years, the target vessel failure rate was 5.5% in deferred lesions, mainly driven by a high rate of clinically driven target vessel revascularization (5.2%), and significantly increased with decreasing FFR, especially in the proximal location. Cardiac death and target-vessel related myocardial infarction rarely occurred during the 2-year follow-up (0.41% and 0.41%, respectively). Independent predictors of 2-year target vessel failure were FFR value (per 0.01 decrease; hazard ratio [HR] 1.07 [95% CI, 1.04–1.11],
P
<0.001), left main coronary artery lesion (HR, 5.89 [95% CI, 2.72–12.8],
P
<0.001), moderately to severely calcified lesion (HR, 2.49 [95% CI, 1.36–4.58];
P
=0.003), hemodialysis (HR, 2.90 [95% CI, 1.11–7.58];
P
=0.03), and right coronary artery lesion (HR, 1.78 [95% CI, 1.02–3.11],
P
=0.042).

Conclusions:

The J-CONFIRM registry demonstrated the 2-year target vessel failure rate was 5.5% in deferred lesions, highlighting the safety of FFR-based deferral of revascularization in daily practice.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
http://www.umin.ac.jp
. Unique identifier: UMIN000014473.
Effects of Interleukin-1β Inhibition on Blood Pressure, Incident Hypertension, and Residual Inflammatory Risk
Authors: Rothman Alexander MK , MacFadyen Jean , Thuren Tom , Webb Alastair , Harrison David G , Guzik Tomasz J. , Libby Peter , Glynn Robert J. , Ridker Paul M.
Published: December 2019

While hypertension and inflammation are physiologically inter-related, the effect of therapies that specifically target inflammation on blood pressure is uncertain. The recent CANTOS (Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcomes Study) afforded the opportunity to test whether IL (interleukin)-1β inhibition would reduce blood pressure, prevent incident hypertension, and modify relationships between hypertension and cardiovascular events. CANTOS randomized 10 061 patients with prior myocardial infarction and hsCRP (high sensitivity C-reactive protein) ≥2 mg/L to canakinumab 50 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg, or placebo. A total of 9549 trial participants had blood pressure recordings during follow-up; of these, 80% had a preexisting diagnosis of hypertension. In patients without baseline hypertension, rates of incident hypertension were 23.4, 26.6, and 28.1 per 100-person years for the lowest to highest baseline tertiles of hsCRP (
P
>0.2). In all participants random allocation to canakinumab did not reduce blood pressure (
P
>0.2) or incident hypertension during the follow-up period (hazard ratio, 0.96 [0.85–1.08],
P
>0.2). IL-1β inhibition with canakinumab reduces major adverse cardiovascular event rates. These analyses suggest that the mechanisms underlying this benefit are not related to changes in blood pressure or incident hypertension.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01327846.
Fetal Oxygen and Glucose Consumption in Human Pregnancy Complicated by Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Cetin Irene , Taricco Emanuela , Mandò Chiara , Radaelli Tatjana , Boito Simona , Nuzzo Anna Maria , Giussani Dino A.
Published: December 2019

In healthy pregnancy, glucose and oxygen availability are essential for fetal growth and well being. However, how substrate delivery and fetal uptake are affected in human pregnancy complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR) is still unknown. Here, we show that the human FGR fetus has a strikingly reduced umbilical uptake of both oxygen and glucose. In 30 healthy term and 32 FGR human pregnancies, umbilical volume flow (Qumb) and parallel umbilical vein (uv) and artery (ua) blood samples were obtained at elective Cesarean section to calculate fetal glucose and oxygen uptake as Qumb · Δ (uv−ua) differences. Umbilical blood flow was significantly lower in FGR pregnancy (−63%;
P
<0.001) but not when normalized for fetal body weight. FGR pregnancy had significantly lower umbilical oxygen delivery and uptake, both as absolute values (delivery: −78%; uptake: −78%) and normalized (delivery: −50%; uptake: −48%) for fetal body weight (all
P
<0.001). Umbilical glucose absolute delivery and uptake were significantly reduced (delivery: −68%; uptake: −72%) but only glucose uptake was decreased when normalized for fetal body weight (−30%;
P
<0.05). The glucose/oxygen quotient was significantly increased (+100%;
P
<0.05) while glucose clearance was significantly decreased (71%;
P
<0.001) in FGR pregnancy (both
P
<0.05). The human fetus in FGR pregnancy triggers compensatory mechanisms to reduce its metabolic rate, matching the proportion of substrate consumption relative to oxygen delivery as a survival strategy during complicated pregnancy.
Transfer and Vascular Effect of Endothelin Receptor Antagonists in the Human Placenta
Authors: Hitzerd Emilie , Neuman Rugina I. , Broekhuizen Michelle , Simons Sinno H.P. , Schoenmakers Sam , Reiss Irwin K.M. , Koch Birgit C.P. , van den Meiracker Anton H. , Versmissen Jorie , Visser Willy , Danser A.H. Jan
Published: December 2019

Increasing evidence suggests a role for the ET (endothelin) system in preeclampsia. Hence, blocking this system with endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs) could be a therapeutic strategy. Yet, clinical studies are lacking due to possible teratogenic effects of ERAs. In this study, we investigated the placental transfer of ERAs and their effect on ET-1-mediated vasoconstriction. Term placentas were dually perfused with the selective ET
A
R (ET type A receptor) antagonists sitaxentan and ambrisentan or the nonselective ET
A
R/ET
B
R antagonist macitentan and subsequently exposed to ET-1 in the fetal circulation. ET-1 concentration-response curves after incubation with sitaxentan, ambrisentan, macitentan, or the selective ET
B
R antagonist BQ-788 were also constructed in isolated chorionic plate arteries using wire-myography, and gene expression of the ET-system was quantified in healthy and early onset preeclamptic placentas. At steady state, the mean fetal-to-maternal transfer ratios were 0.32±0.05 for sitaxentan, 0.21±0.02 for ambrisentan, and 0.05±0.01 for macitentan. Except for BQ-788, all ERAs lowered the response to ET-1, both in the perfused cotyledon and isolated chorionic plate arteries. Placental gene expression of ECE-1, ET
A
R, and ET
B
R were comparable in healthy and preeclamptic placentas, while ET-1 expression was higher in preeclampsia. Our study is the first to show direct transfer of ERAs across the term human placenta. Furthermore, ET
A
R exclusively mediates ET-1-induced constriction in the fetoplacental vasculature. Given its limited transfer, macitentan could be considered as potential preeclampsia therapy. Extending knowledge on placental transfer to placentas of preeclamptic pregnancies is required to determine whether ERAs might be applied safely in preeclampsia.
Caravan Trade in the Late Ottoman Empire: the ʿAqīl Network and the Institutionalization of Overland Trade
Authors: Pétriat Philippe
Published: December 2019

Building on recent works on Central Asia and using Ottoman, Arabic and European sources, this article challenges the idea that caravan trade was declining in the 19th and 20th-century Ottoman Middle East. It explores the caravan trade’s economic and political dimensions from the Gulf to Syria. This trade’s resurgence was simultaneous with the reassertion of imperial control over the steppe. In that changing context, the institutionalization of caravan trade by groups such as the ʿAqīl traders kept overland trade lively and arguably competitive.
Taxonomic Synopsis of the genus Chamaecrista (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae) in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region, Goiás, Brazil

Authors: SOUZA ALESSANDRO OLIVEIRA DE , LEWIS GWILYM PETER , SILVA MARCOS JOSÉ DA
Published: December 2019

Chamaecrista is one of the largest genera of Leguminosae subfamily Caesalpinioideae and comprises 330 species, of these, 222 species are present in the Phytogeographic Cerrado Domain in Brazil. The taxonomy of the genus in Brazil continues to need study. Here we present a taxonomic synopsis of Chamaecrista for the Chapada dos Veadeiros (CV) region, which is located in the northern portion of the state of Goiás, Brazil. Fieldwork was carried out in the area between 2010 and 2018; we also reviewed the literature and about 1500 herbarium collections to build the synopsis of species presented here. We record 65 species (71 taxa) of Chamaecrista occurring in the CV, corresponding to 60% of the species registered for the state of Goiás; 49 species at Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park (CVNP), 27 and 19 are endemic to the state of Goiás and the studied area respectively. An identification key and distribution maps, as well as comments on morphology and conservation status are presented, together with photograhs of the species in the field.
Additions to Ochroconis from India

Authors: SINGH ARCHANA , SINGH NIKHIL KUMAR , SINGH PARAS NATH , SINGH RAGHVENDRA , DUBEY NAWAL KISHORE
Published: December 2019

Ochroconis helicteris, a novel species of the oligotrophic genus Ochroconis (Sympoventuriaceae, Venturiales), has been described and illustrated. Morphologically, this species has characters similar to allied species in the genus Ochroconis, but differs in conidial dimensions and shape. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear ribosomal DNA gene ITS and protein coding gene BT2 revealed it clustering as monophyletic clade which was separated from known Ochroconis species. New species was isolated from leaf surface of medicinal plant Helicteris isora L.
Geopora sinensis, a new truffle species from North China based on morphological and molecular data

Authors: GUO LI-JIE , XU YU-YAN , FAN LI
Published: December 2019

Geopora sinensis sp. nov. was described and illustrated from the soil under Picea wilsonii trees in North China based on molecular and morphological analyses in this paper. Morphologically G. sinensis is similar to G. cooperi, G. gilkeyae and G. tolucana, but distinguished from them by the combination of broadly ellipsoid ascospores and white hymenium. ITS-based phylogenetic analysis supports the establishment of the new species.
Without a Paddle: Barriers to School Enrollment Procedures for Immigrant Students and Families
Authors: Evans Kerri , Perez-Aponte Jaime , McRoy Ruth
Published: December 2019

The growing immigrant population in the United States consists of school-aged children who are in need of educational opportunities available through the country’s existing educational system. Education, a basic human right, is mandated through compulsory education laws in the United States so that all children can learn, grow, and be prepared for the future. However, immigrant children and families face a challenge early on, with the enrollment process itself. Enrollment barriers include lack of proper documentation, medical clearance, absence of parents, and discrimination. This article includes a review of relevant policy, a discussion of the implications of enforcing standards on immigrant students, and provides recommendations for future educational policy, practice, and guidelines for immigrant children. There is a need to provide culturally and trauma-sensitive services to this population as they adapt to American schools academically, culturally, linguistically, and psychosocially. More professional education, policies, and research are needed to streamline enrollment processes.
Health promotion and students’ well-being in secondary schools in Catalonia
Authors: Soler-Masó Pere , Serdà Bernat-Carles , Planas-Lladó Anna
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The aim of this study was to analyse the views of different members of the school community regarding the health and well-being of young people and health promotion in schools.

Design:

Case study design was used, in which the Personal Wellbeing Index–School Children’s Questionnaire was administered to young people, and focus groups were held with other members of the school community (students, teachers, families, tutors and stakeholders).

Setting:

Five secondary schools in Catalonia (Spain).

Method:

Sequential triangulation between methods. Quantitative methods evaluated the students’ perception of health and well-being, while qualitative methods described school community perceptions of health promotion in school.

Results:

The results revealed a generally good perception of health among young people. Reported perceptions of health were lower among students in the later years of secondary education. Findings suggest that health promotion actions do not always translate into healthy behaviours among young people. Lack of resources and school overcrowding are key contextual factors influencing the promotion of health.

Conclusion:

Findings advance knowledge related to health education during the secondary years of schooling. In addition, they provide professionals with relevant data for developing and implementing health and well-being actions to include as part of a holistic curriculum.
Symbolic Post-Conflict Recovery in the Rwenzori Sub-Region of Uganda
Authors: William Muhumuza
Published: December 2019

Whereas there is a consensus on the significance of rebuilding conflict-torn states and societies, there is no agreement on how it should be done. The dominant framework of post-war rebuilding is clearly biased to rebuilding the ‘hardware’. This article argues that the government’s attempt to rebuild the Rwenzori sub-region in the aftermath of the Allied Democratic Forces war adopted the conventional approach that pays less attention to rebuilding ‘software’. It further asserts that the recovery programme was symbolic given that government wished to avoid the political consequences of not taking action at all. Symbolism not only led to flawed performance of the recovery programme but also negatively affected peace building in the sub-region. The article advocates not only for a synergy of rebuilding ‘hardware’ and ‘software’ but also for a nuanced approach that triangulates top-down and bottom-up approaches at all stages of post-conflict recovery.
Standards of Afrocentric Education for School Leaders and Teachers
Authors: Akua Chike
Published: December 2019

What is Afrocentric education (ACE)? What are the implications of ACE for school leaders and teachers? What is the relationship of ACE to multicultural education (MCE) and how does ACE differ from MCE? What are the standards that govern ACE’s philosophical foundation and practical application? This article provides a practical definition of ACE that can be understood by the community and the academy, the theoretical basis of ACE, its relationship to MCE, a synthesis of the research literature, and a framework of basic standards that educational leaders, teachers, and professors can employ for curriculum development, strategic planning, instructional leadership, instructional strategies, and transformation of school culture in PK-12 and higher education. This article also offers a definition of leadership and Afrocentric Educational Leadership to frame and inform future research.
Adversity, Mental Health, and Substance Use Disorders as Predictors and Mediators of Rule Violations in U.S. Prisons
Authors: Henry Brandy F.
Published: December 2019

This study explores how typologies of adversity and mental health/substance use disorders impact rule violations during incarceration. Data come from the 2004 cross-sectional Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities (SI-SFCF). Logistic regression and structural equation modeling were used for analysis. Results link history of adverse experiences to rule violations during incarceration and demonstrate how mental health and substance use disorders mediate this relationship. Incarcerated people with severe histories of adverse experiences had the highest odds of rule violations, relative to people with low adversity, for all typologies. More severe adversity typologies predicted mental health and substance use disorders. Alcohol and substance use disorders predicted drug violations, whereas substance use and mental health disorders predicted major violations. Serious mental illness did not predict rule violations when accounting for adversity. Findings suggest that addressing adverse experiences, mental health, and substance use disorders may prevent rule violations.
Cross-language distance influences receptive vocabulary outcomes of bilingual children
Authors: Blom Elma , Boerma Tessel , Bosma Evelyn , Cornips Leonie , van den Heuij Kirsten , Timmermeister Mona
Published: December 2019

Various studies have shown that bilingual children score lower than their monolingual peers on standardized receptive vocabulary tests. This study investigates if this effect is moderated by language distance. Dutch receptive vocabulary was tested with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT). The impact of cross-language distance was examined by comparing bilingual groups with a small (Close; n = 165) and a large between-language distance (Distant; n = 108) with monolingual controls ( n = 39). As a group, the bilinguals scored lower on Dutch receptive vocabulary than the monolinguals. The bilingual Distant group had lower receptive vocabulary outcomes than the bilingual Close and monolingual groups. No difference emerged between the monolinguals and the bilingual Close group. It can be concluded that bilingual children whose languages provide ample opportunities for transfer and sharing knowledge do not have any receptive vocabulary delays. The findings underscore that bilingual children cannot be treated as a homogeneous group and are important for determining which bilingual children are at risk of low vocabulary outcomes.
Grammatical aspect and L2 learners’ online processing of temporarily ambiguous sentences in English: A self-paced reading study with German, Dutch and French L2 learners
Authors: Roberts Leah , Liszka Sarah Ann
Published: December 2019

The results of a self-paced reading study with advanced German, Dutch and French second language (L2) learners of English showed that their online comprehension of early closure (EC) sentences which are initially misanalysed by native English speakers (e.g. While John hunted the frightened rabbit escaped) was affected by whether or not, like English, their first language (L1) encodes aspect grammatically (French) or only via lexical means (German, Dutch). The English and the higher proficiency French participants showed a processing asymmetry in their online reading of the temporarily ambiguous sentences, assumed to be caused by the difference in the aspectual perspective a comprehender takes when initial verbs appear in the past simple vs. the past progressive. In contrast, the German and Dutch learners, irrespective of proficiency, treated both progressive and simple sentences in the same way, despite the fact that all the L2 learners were matched according to their metalinguistic knowledge of English aspectual distinctions. Furthermore, despite patterning with the German learners online, the Dutch L2 learners’ offline judgments were more akin to those of the English native speakers and the French L2 learners, showing an effect of aspect, which could be argued to lend support to the idea that progressive aspect may be becoming grammaticalized in Dutch. Taken together, the results of this study add to our growing understanding of cross-linguistic influences during online L2 sentence processing, and differences between L2 parsing and learners’ metalinguistic L2 performance.
Activation of autophagy during farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase inhibition is mediated through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling
Authors: Han Jie , Huang Chaoyang , Jiang Jiukun , Jiang Dongmei
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Autophagy is divided into three phases: autophagosome engulfment of intracellular organelles and proteins, autophagosome fusion with lysosomes, and autolysosome degradation. The farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase inhibitor ibandronate (IBAN) has in vivo cardioprotective properties, potentially via anti-oxidant effects. Whether autophagy is involved in the cardioprotective effect of IBAN remains unexplored.

Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated in vitro with IBAN to assess autophagy induction. Lysosomal activation and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling were assessed using a LysoTracker assay, acridine orange staining and western blotting. An MTS assay was used to assess cellular proliferation. Autophagy was inhibited using chloroquine or RNA silencing of autophagy-related 7 (Atg7) expression.

Results

IBAN induced autophagy in HUVECs. Moreover, IBAN activated lysosomal function, which is pivotal to autophagy induction. PI3K/AKT/mTOR activity was inhibited in IBAN-treated HUVECs, indicating the involvement of this pathway in IBAN-induced autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy using either chloroquine or Atg7 siRNA potentiated inhibition of HUVEC growth by IBAN, suggesting the involvement of non-autophagy pathways in the antiproliferative effects of IBAN.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into the role of autophagy in the cardioprotective effects of IBAN and the molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy induction by IBAN.
Reduction and fixation of anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament avulsion fracture without syndesmotic screw fixation in rotational ankle fracture
Authors: Bae Kee Jeong , Kang Seung-Baik , Kim Jihyeung , Lee Jaewoo , Go Tae Won
Published: December 2019

Objective

We aimed to present the radiographic and functional outcomes of anatomical reduction and fixation of anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) avulsion fracture without syndesmotic screw fixation in rotational ankle fracture.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 66 consecutive patients with displaced malleolar fracture combined with AITFL avulsion fracture. We performed reduction and fixation for the AITFL avulsion fracture when syndesmotic instability was present after malleolar fracture fixation. A syndesmotic screw was inserted only when residual syndesmotic instability was present even after AITFL avulsion fracture fixation. The radiographic parameters were compared with those of the contralateral uninjured ankles. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores were assessed 1 year postoperatively.

Results

Fifty-four patients showed syndesmotic instability after malleolar fracture fixation and underwent reduction and fixation for AITFL avulsion fracture. Among them, 45 (83.3%) patients achieved syndesmotic stability, while 9 (16.7%) patients with residual syndesmotic instability needed additional syndesmotic screw fixation. The postoperative radiographic parameters were not significantly different from those of the uninjured ankles. The mean AOFAS score was 94.

Conclusion

Reduction and fixation of AITFL avulsion fracture obviated the need for syndesmotic screw fixation in more than 80% of patients with AITFL avulsion fracture and syndesmotic instability.
miR-147a suppresses the metastasis of non-small-cell lung cancer by targeting CCL5
Authors: Lu Yan , Luan Xiao Rong
Published: December 2019

Objective

MicroRNA (miR)-147a acts as an inhibitory miRNA in many cancers. However, its potential roles in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear.

Methods

Levels of miR-147a and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) were measured using a quantitative real-time PCR assay. Cell growth, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells were assessed by colony formation, wound healing, and Transwell invasion assays, respectively. The role of miR-147a in the growth and metastatic ability of NSCLC in vivo was detected using a xenograft model and experimental lung metastasis model.

Results

miR-147a was downregulated in NSCLC cell lines as well as in tissues. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analyses demonstrated that upregulation of miR-147a decreased the aggressiveness of NSCLC cells in vitro. In addition, CCL5 was identified as a target of miR-147a. We also demonstrated the effect of miR-147a in the progression of NSCLC cells via targeting CCL5. Finally, the in vivo mouse xenograft model showed that miR-147a inhibited progression of NSCLC cells.

Conclusions

Overall, expression of miR-147a was downregulated in NSCLC. Importantly, upregulation of miR-147a suppressed the growth and metastasis of NSCLC cells in vivo by targeting CCL5.
Effect of metronidazole combined with autolytic debridement for the management of malignant wound malodor
Authors: Peng Li , Dai Yi
Published: December 2019

Objective

To explore the effect of metronidazole combined with autolytic debridement for the management of malignant wound malodor.

Methods

Patients with malignant wounds who underwent dressing change at a wound outpatient clinic from September 2016 to February 2019 were randomized to an observation group (36 patients) or a control group (37 patients). The observation group was treated with metronidazole combined with debridement gel while the control group received wet dressing therapy combined with silver sulfadiazine. Malodor control was compared between the two groups from treatment initiation to days 3 and 12 after dressing change, and the social impact scale was used to compare stigma caused by malodor between the groups before and after treatment.

Results

The observation group had significantly superior malodor control on days 3 and 12 after dressing change compared with the control group. There was no difference in stigma between the two groups before treatment, but stigma in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group after treatment.

Conclusion

Metronidazole combined with autolytic debridement can effectively reduce the malodor of cancerous wounds while controlling infection, and alleviate patient stigma caused by malodor.
Gradual oculomotor training in blow-out orbital fracture reconstruction recovery
Authors: Zeng Changjuan , Fan Chengjing , Liu Jinlin , Xiao Qiong , Zhu Yiwen , Song Xuefei , Chen Huifang
Published: December 2019

Objective

This study compared the impact of gradual oculomotor training (GOT) in blow-out orbital fracture (BOF) reconstruction recovery with the impact of high-intensity trainings.

Methods

In total, 120 patients with BOF requiring orbital reconstruction surgery were randomly divided into four groups; all groups performed postoperative oculomotor training four times per day. Patients in Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 performed 10, 20, 30, and 50 sets of all-direction movement per training on the first 3 days, respectively; they performed 10 additional sets per training on the following 4 days. Patients in all groups performed 50 sets per training from 8 days to 3 months postoperatively. Incision healing, pain, and satisfaction rate, as well as degree of diplopia, were recorded during follow-up.

Results

At 7 days postoperatively, more patients in Group 1 had no/mild swelling and no/mild pain, compared with patients in Group 4. Patients in Groups 1 and 2 had higher satisfaction rates than patients in Group 4. The degree of diplopia did not significantly differ among the groups.

Conclusions

For patients with BOF, GOT after reconstruction surgery was more beneficial for wound healing, pain relief, and satisfaction; the degree of diplopia did not significantly differ, compared with high-intensity trainings.
Levels of soluble cell adhesion molecules in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with macrovascular complications
Authors: Hegazy Gehan A , Awan Zuhier , Hashem Enayat , Al-Ama Nabil , Abunaji Asmaa Basha
Published: December 2019

Objective

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a main risk factor for development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and endothelial dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate serum levels of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1), and endothelium selectin (sE-selectin) in T2DM patients with macrovascular complications.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 21 controls, 30 T2DM patients without CVDs, and 30 T2DM patients with CVDs was conducted. Serum levels of soluble adhesion molecules including sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, and sE-selectin were determined using ELISA.

Results

Serum levels of sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, and sE-selectin were higher in T2DM patients than in controls. Levels of serum sVCAM-1 were higher in T2DM patients with CVDs compared with T2DM patients without CVDs. In T2DM patients with CVDs, significant positive associations were observed between sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, and sE-selectin levels (r = 0.575, p = 0.001 and r = 0.378, p = 0.040).

Conclusions

Circulating levels of soluble adhesion molecules were elevated in T2DM patients, regardless of whether the patients had cardiovascular complications. Only sVCAM-1 was considered a useful marker for the prediction of CVDs in T2DM patients.
Efficacy of hydrocortisone sodium succinate and aluminum phosphate gel for stricture prevention after ≥3/4 circumferential endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Nie Dan , Yan Xiue , Huang Yonghui
Published: December 2019

Objective

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely used in early-stage esophageal cancer, but the quality of life of patients with postoperative stricture is markedly reduced, requiring long-term repeat, periodic endoscopic balloon dilatation. We evaluated the combination of hydrocortisone sodium succinate and aluminum phosphate gel administered orally for stricture prevention.

Methods

We retrospectively assigned 27 patients who underwent ≥3/4 circular ESD for esophageal superficial squamous cell cancer to one of two groups according to the preventative strategy: endoscopic intralesional steroid injection and systemic steroid (IT+ST group) and oral combination of hydrocortisone sodium succinate and aluminum phosphate gel (OHA group). Stricture rate was compared between the two groups.

Results

There were six and seven complete and ≥3/4 circular ESD cases, respectively, in the IT+ST group and four and ten cases in the OHA group. Stricture rates in the IT+ST and OHA groups were 53.8% and 7.1%, respectively. Nine patients in each group developed hypokalemia after glucocorticoid administration.

Conclusions

OHA is a promising treatment strategy for stricture prevention following large-circumference ESD in patients with early stage esophageal carcinoma.
Effect of propofol on the skeletal muscle insulin receptor in rats with hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Chen Zuping , Zhang Li , Liu Cunming , Wang Xuehao , Chen Chen
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate the effect of propofol on the expression and phosphorylation of the skeletal muscle insulin receptor and its substrates following hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI).

Methods

Sixty healthy Wistar rats were divided randomly into a propofol group (P) and an ischemia-reperfusion group (I/R). Rats in the P group received propofol infusion prior to ischemia and during a 120-minute post-reperfusion period. Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were measured, as well as expression levels of the insulin signaling proteins insulin receptor (IR) β unit (IRβ) and IR substrate 1 (IRS-1). In addition, tyrosine phosphorylation levels of these proteins were measured in skeletal muscle.

Results

Plasma glucose levels in the two groups were higher at 2 hours after reperfusion (T2) versus exposure of the hepatic hilum (T1). Plasma glucose levels in the I/R group were higher than those in the P group, while insulin levels at T2 were lower. In addition, phosphotyrosine levels of IRβ and IRS-1 were decreased by 32.1% and 22.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

Propofol increased phosphotyrosine levels of IRβ and IRS-2, resulting in an alleviation of increased plasma glucose levels following HIRI.
In vitro cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential of calcium silicate-based dental cements in a root canal-filling model
Authors: Jing Yan , Gong Ting , Duan Chenggang , Wang Huan , Zhang Chengfei , Neelakantan Prasanna
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate the in vitro cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential of an experimental calcium silicate-based cement and the inflammatory response in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

Methods

Cellular responses, osteogenic-related gene expression, and the production of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 were studied in hPDLSCs exposed to the experimental root canal-filling material C-Root, the commercial tricalcium silicate-based material BioRoot RCS, and the epoxy resin-based material AH Plus. Differences were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni-adjusted pairwise comparison.

Results

Exposure to BioRoot and C-Root caused time-dependent increases in cell proliferation. Significantly more mineralized nodules were formed in cells exposed to AH Plus and BioRoot compared with the negative control. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was significantly lower in AH Plus cells compared with negative control, BioRoot, and C-Root cells. ALP, osteocalcin (OCN), and runt-related transcription factor2 (RUNX2) mRNA expression levels were all significantly higher in C-Root compared with AH Plus cells at day 7. IL-6 and IL-8 levels differed significantly among the experimental groups, with the highest IL-8 levels in BioRoot cells at days 7 and 14.

Conclusion

The experimental root canal-filling material C-Root has similar in vitro cytocompatibility to BioRoot and better osteogenic potential than AH Plus.
Chromosomal abnormalities and Y chromosome microdeletions in infertile men with azoospermia and oligozoospermia in Eastern China
Authors: Sha Jing , Huang Guiping , Zhang Bei , Wang Xia , Xu Zaochun , Zhai Jingfang
Published: December 2019

Objective

The objective was to investigate the frequency and type of chromosomal abnormalities and Y chromosome microdeletions in infertile men with azoospermia and oligozoospermia to ensure appropriate genetic counseling before assisted reproduction in Eastern China.

Methods

A total of 201 infertile men (148 with azoospermia and 53 with oligozoospermia) were enrolled. Real-time PCR using six Y-specific sequence-tagged sites of the azoospermia factor (AZF) region was performed to screen for microdeletions. Karyotype analyses were performed on peripheral blood lymphocytes with standard G-banding.

Results

Out of 201 infertile patients, 22 (10.95%) had Y microdeletions [17/148 (11.49%) men with azoospermia and 5/53 (9.43%) men with oligozoospermia]. The most frequent microdeletions were in the AZFc region, followed by the AZFa+b + c, AZFb+c, AZFa, and AZFb regions. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 18.91% (38/201) of patients, 34 of which were sex chromosome abnormalities (16.92%) and 4 of which were autosomal abnormalities (1.99%). Chromosomal abnormalities were more prevalent in men with azoospermia (22.97%) than in those with oligozoospermia (7.55%).

Conclusions

We detected a high incidence of chromosomal abnormalities and Y chromosomal microdeletions in infertile Chinese men with azoospermia and oligozoospermia. These findings suggest the need for genetic testing before the use of assisted reproduction techniques.
Everyday Context Attenuates the Attentional Capture by Modern Threatening Stimuli
Authors: Takeno Masae , Kitagami Shinji
Published: December 2019

Threatening stimuli such as snakes typically draw attention. This attentional bias, called the threat-superiority effect, is proposed as the response of a fear module that human beings evolved to detect specific threatening stimuli. Alternatively, the relevance-detection hypothesis proposes that the threat-superiority effect by modern threats (i.e., weapons) is induced when the threatening stimulus is the most relevant for circumventing danger in the context. Although previous studies have shown that an urban context enhanced the modern threat-superiority effect, these do not clarify whether the context induced the attentional bias or facilitated the response via the fear module. Therefore, the present study investigated whether weapons captured attention in a daily context where the weapons were typically used as tools. The results indicated that weapons in the usual context did not capture attention. It is supported that the modern threat-superiority effect depends on the context, as suggested by the relevance-detection hypothesis.
Antipsychotic Overdosing and Polypharmacy in Schizophrenic Delinquents Explored
Authors: Günther M. P. , Kirchebner J. , Kling S. , Lau S.
Published: December 2019

A logistic regression model for 289 cases of schizophrenic offenders in a Swiss forensic hospital between 1995 and 2016 revealed the following factors for above average levels of antipsychotic overdosing and polypharmacy: Odds for overdosing increased in absence of a personality disorder (237%), for each point increase in emotional withdrawal (63.5%) and motor retardation (71.7%), and decreased for poor rapport (42.3%) recorded at admission. Odds for polypharmacy increased with complaints about physicians (157%), for each point increase in IQ (3.6%; range = 65–131, M = 92, SD = 14), reduction of the security level of the ward (36.8%; four levels), and for each point increase in poor attention (27.6%) at admission. It decreased with each previous conviction (10.9%; range = 1–21, M = 3, SD = 2), breaking of rules (46.4%) and the administration of compulsory measures (55.7%) on the ward, a poor legal prognosis (29.4%, four levels), and each point increase in grandiosity (40.3%), passive social withdrawal (42.3%), and depressive symptoms (38.7%) at admission.
The Effects of Mental Health and Substance Abuse/Dependence Disorders on Prison Misconduct Among Male Inmates in Taiwan
Authors: Kuo Shih-Ya
Published: December 2019

This study examined the relative effects of mental illness, substance abuse/dependence, and co-occurring mental disorders and substance abuse/dependence (CODs) on prison misconduct among male inmates ( N = 2,065) incarcerated in Taiwan’s nine correctional facilities. Both bivariate and multivariate analyses revealed that COD-affected inmates have the highest risk of prison misconduct compared to those with singular drug abuse/dependence disorders or no disorders, similar to the findings of previous studies conducted in the United States. These results highlighted the importance of clinical screenings and assessments for inmates who might have CODs. Integrated treatments may be more appropriate for inmates with CODs, rather than providing separate treatments for mental and drug abuse/dependence disorders.
Social media networks and leadership ethics in healthcare
Authors: Ennis-O-Connor Marie , Mannion Rosarii
Published: December 2019

Social media has penetrated intrapersonal and professional communication, particularly among a younger generation of healthcare professionals and patients who have grown up in the digital age of communication. Social media tools provide a unique set of opportunities in healthcare, but with these new opportunities come a number of potential challenges. As health leaders navigate the increasingly complex world of social media, concerns have arisen regarding questions of ethics and professionalism and how the use of social media fits within the social contract between the medical profession and society. This article describes the changing parameters of professional conduct in digital environments and proposes a set of considerations and recommendations for health leaders to navigate this new frontier.
Make Me a Better Offer: Developer Threats and Regional Competition for Land Development Projects
Authors: Kang Ki-Eun , Homsy George C.
Published: December 2019

To extract favorable terms from local governments, developers can take advantage of intermunicipal competition and threaten to relocate or abandon a land development project. Some say that model of regional competition undercuts the economic, environmental, and societal benefits of development while others claim it boosts the efficiency of municipal operations. The authors examine the likelihood that land developers will push local governments to compete against each other for projects. Their study of New York municipalities ( N = 306) finds that one third of local governments have been threatened and that one third of those reacted by reducing burdens or increasing incentives for developers. Their logistic regression model reveals that more cooperative intermunicipal relations across a region decrease the chances of developers threatening to move projects. Interestingly, the model suggests that public participation increases the chances of a threat.
Mediating Local Economic Development: The Place of Site Selection Consultants in Industrial Recruitment
Authors: Wood Andrew M. , Phelps Nicholas A.
Published: December 2019

The local economic development practice of attracting industry, investment, and employment is a long-standing one in the United States. Yet the manner in which this investment is mediated has always been shrouded in mystery. The mediation of investment and the particular role of site selection consultants in facilitating corporate location decisions is the principal focus of this commentary. The authors draw on a series of recent interviews to illustrate how economic development organizations view the role of site selection consultants and their contribution to the practice of industrial recruitment. The authors conclude that, while location consultants bring certain welcome efficiencies to the practice of industrial recruitment, their presence also raises important questions concerning interplace competition for mobile investment and the general landscape of local economic development in the United States.