bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting strength of additively manufactured thermoplastic polymer parts produced using material extrusion
Authors: Bartolai Joseph , Simpson Timothy W. , Xie Renxuan
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The weakest point in additively manufactured polymer parts produced by material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) is the interface between adjacent layers and deposition toolpaths or “roads”. This study aims to predict the mechanical strength of parts by utilizing a novel analytical approach. Strength predictions are made using the temperature history of these interfaces, polymer rheological data, and polymer weld theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is validated using experimental data for two common 3D-printed polymers: polycarbonate (PC) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Interface temperature history data are collected in situ using infrared imaging. Rheological data of the polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene used to fabricate the fused filament fabrication parts in this study have been determined experimentally.

Findings

The strength of the interfaces has been predicted, to within 10% of experimental strength, using polymer weld theory from the literature adapted to the specific properties of the polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene feedstock used in this study.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a novel approach for predicting the strength of parts produced by MEAM based on the strength of interfaces using polymer weld theory, polymer rheology, temperature history of the interface and the forces applied to the interface. Unlike methods that require experimental strength data as a prediction input, the proposed approach is material and build orientation agnostic once fundamental parameters related to material composition have been determined.
Formation and improvement of surface waviness for additive manufacturing 5A06 aluminium alloy component with GTAW system
Authors: Geng Haibin , Li Jinglong , Xiong Jiangtao , Lin Xin , Huang Dan , Zhang Fusheng
Published: February 2018

Purpose

As known, the wire and arc additive manufacture technique can achieve stable process control, which is represented with periodic surface waviness, when using empirical methods or feedback control system. But it is usually a tedious work to further reduce it using trial and error method. The purpose of this paper is to unveil the formation mechanism of surface waviness and develop a method to diminish it.

Design/methodology/approach

Two forming mechanisms, wetting and spreading and remelting, are unveiled by cross-section observation. A discriminant is established to differentiate which mechanism is valid to dominate the forming process under the given process parameters.

Findings

Finally, a theoretical method is developed to optimize surface waviness, even forming a smooth surface by establishing a matching relation between heat input (line energy) and materials input (the ratio of wire feed speed to travel speed).

Originality/value

Formation mechanisms are revealed by observing cross-section morphology. A discriminant is established to differentiate which mechanism is valid to dominate the forming process under the given process parameters. A mathematical model is developed to optimize surface waviness, even forming a smooth surface through establishing a matching relation between heat input (line energy) and materials input (the ratio of wire feed speed to travel speed).
Geometric modeling of lattice structures for additive manufacturing
Authors: Savio Gianpaolo , Meneghello Roberto , Concheri Gianmaria
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a consistent approach to geometric modeling of optimized lattice structures for additive manufacturing technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method applies subdivision surfaces schemes to an automatically defined initial mesh model of an arbitrarily complex lattice structure. The approach has been developed for cubic cells. Considering different aspects, five subdivision schemes have been studied: Mid-Edge, an original scheme proposed by the authors, Doo–Sabin, Catmull–Clark and Bi-Quartic. A generalization to other types of cell has also been proposed.

Findings

The proposed approach allows to obtain consistent and smooth geometric models of optimized lattice structures, overcoming critical issues on complex models highlighted in literature, such as scalability, robustness and automation. Moreover, no sharp edge is obtained, and consequently, stress concentration is reduced, improving static and fatigue resistance of the whole structure.

Originality/value

An original and robust method for modeling optimized lattice structures was proposed, allowing to obtain mesh models suitable for additive manufacturing technologies. The method opens new perspectives in the development of specific computer-aided design tools for additive manufacturing, based on mesh modeling and surface subdivision. These approaches and slicing tools are suitable for parallel computation, therefore allowing the implementation of algorithms dedicated to graphics cards.
Application of fuzzy AHP – TOPSIS for ranking additive manufacturing processes for microfabrication
Authors: M.B. Anand , S. Vinodh
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to rank additive manufacturing (AM) processes for microfabrication using integrated fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS).

Design/methodology/approach

AM technology selection is formulated as multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem and ranking is obtained using fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS. Five candidate processes considered are laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT), microstereolithography, micro-selective laser sintering (micro-SLS), inkjet, micro 3D printing.

Findings

Criteria weights are obtained using fuzzy AHP, and ranking is obtained using fuzzy TOPSIS. The top ranked criteria include material compatibility, geometrical complexity and minimum feature size. The ranking sequence is LIFT > microstereolithography > micro-SLS > inkjet > micro-3D printing.

Research limitations/implications

In the present study, ten criteria and five alternatives are used. In future, additional criteria and alternatives could be considered in line with technological advancements.

Practical implications

The generated ranking enabled the selection of appropriate AM process for microfabrication.

Originality/value

The application of hybrid MCDM approach for ranking AM processes for microfabrication is the contribution of the study.
Mandibular retrognathia correction using a fixed sagittal guidance appliance individually manufactured by selective laser melting manufacturing technology
Authors: Fekonja Anita , Zupancic Hartner Tjaša , Cretnik Andrej
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Digitalization and additive manufacturing now play an important role in the manufacturing of medical and dental products. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of the treatment of skeletal Class II malocclusion in a growing patient using fixed sagittal guidance (FSG) appliance manufactured by digital and fast procedure by selective laser melting.

Design/methodology/Approach

This study present the case of a 14-year-old boy with a convex profile owing to a retrognathic mandible, an overjet (8 mm), a deep overbite (7 mm), a Class II canine, a molar relationship on both sides and an accentuated lower curve of Spee. The lateral cephalogram showed a skeletal Class II discrepancy with mandibular retrognathia, skeletal deep bite, reduced lower anterior facial height and proclined upper incisors. Treatment using FSG and fixed orthodontic appliance was performed within 15 months.

Findings

The final results show a well-balanced face and a nice profile. Protrusion of the maxillary anterior teeth was corrected, and a Class I molar relationship was achieved with proper overjet and overbite.

Research limitations/implications

The results from the proposed method are promising, although long-term results with a large group are not yet available.

Practical implications

Using an individually made FSG appliance from biocompatible material and an individualized treatment plan, an effective result in treating Class II malocclusion due to retrognathic mandible with favorable dentofacial effects has been achieved.

Originality/value

This is the first paper describing the use of additive manufacturing for orthodontic appliances in Slovenia.
A novel process planning algorithm for additive and subtractive manufacturing based on skeleton tree matching
Authors: Hao Jingbin , Chen Xin , Liu Hao , Ye Shengping
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To remanufacture a disused part, a hybrid process needs to be taken in part production. Therefore, a reasonable machining route is necessary to be developed for the hybrid process. This paper aims to develop a novel process planning algorithm for additive and subtractive manufacturing (ASM) system to achieve this purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a skeleton of the model is generated by using thinning algorithm. Then, the skeleton tree is constructed based on topological structure and shape feature. Further, a feature matching algorithm is developed for recognizing the different features between the initial model and the final model based on the skeleton tree. Finally, a reasonable hybrid machining route of the ASM system is generated in consideration of the machining method of each different sub-feature.

Findings

This paper proposes a hybrid process planning algorithm for the ASM system. Further, it generates new process planning insights on the hybrid process service provider market.

Practical implications

The proposed process planning algorithm enables engineers to obtain a proper hybrid machining route before product fabrication. And thereby, it extends the machining capability of the hybrid process to manufacture some parts accurately and efficiently.

Originality/value

This study addresses one gap in the hybrid process literature. It develops the first hybrid process planning strategy for remanufacturing of disused parts based on skeleton tree matching, which generates a more proper hybrid machining route than the currently available hybrid strategy studies. Also, this study provides technical support for the ASM system to repair damaged parts.
Review on processes and color quality evaluation of color 3D printing
Authors: Yuan Jiangping , Zhu Ming , Xu Baohui , Chen Guangxue
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is provide a broad view for the standardization efforts of color quality evaluation of color 3D printing techniques. Further, this review paper demonstrates the processes and color properties of most color 3D printing techniques with specific devices and applications to extend the range of possible memberships of standardization group.

Design/methodology/approach

Six color 3D printing techniques including plastic-based, paper-based, powder-based, organism-based, food-based and metal-based color 3D printing have been introduced and illustrated with colorization principles and forming features in detail. Moreover, for printed 3D color objects, literature about color measurement, color specification and color reproduction are described and analyzed, respectively.

Findings

Four color 3D printing techniques including plastic-based, paper-based, powder-based and food-based color 3D printing show great affinity toward standardization of color quality evaluation, while their colorization principles indicate that it is difficult with a single standard frame. It is possible to develop a completed color quality evaluation standard for color 3D printing based on approaches in color 2D printing when color measurement method and devices are standardized together.

Originality/value

The paper provides an important guide focusing on the efforts to standardize the colorization processes and color quality evaluation of the color 3D printing techniques.
The hydraulic transfers “Setif-Hodna” to cope with impact of climate change on Setif high plains region
Authors: Bouregaa Tarek , Fenni Mohamed
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to show the impact of greenhouse gas emission scenarios on annual temperature and precipitation changes during three periods of the twenty-first century in Setif region by using two selected GCMs; and second, to show the importance of “Setif-Hodna” hydraulic transfers’ project, like a method to adapt to the water scarcity in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates likely changes in annual temperature and precipitation over Setif high plains region (North-East of Algeria) under four Special Report on Emission Scenarios scenarios: A1B, B1, A2 and B2, between three time slices: 2030, 2060 and 2090. MAGICC-SCENGEN 5.3v.2 was used as a tool for downscaling the two selected general circulation models.

Findings

The projections of GFDLCM20 and GFDLCM21 indicate that annual temperature will increase under the four scenarios and across the three time slices. GFDLCM20 predictions indicate a general decrease in mean annual precipitation across the four scenarios, with average of −3.02, −2.47 and −1.07 percent in 2030, 2060 and 2090, respectively. GFDLCM21 show a high decrease, with values of −18.72, −27.2 and −31.9 percent across the three periods, respectively.

Originality/value

This work is one of the first to study the impact of greenhouse gas emission scenarios on annual temperature and precipitation changes over the region, and present the hydraulic transfers project “Setif-Hodna” like an adaptive strategy to limit the effect of water scarcity in this region.
Employee’s green behavior for environmental sustainability: a case of banking sector in Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Qaisar , Hassan Siti Hasnah , Akhtar Sohail , Khan Shahid
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find out the relationship between employee’s green behaviors (EGBs) and environmental sustainability (ES). Presently, many ES issues have impact on organizations, e.g., energy cost and climate change. In business world, there is a positive trend among organizations to start reporting over performance of ES keeping their role as corporate social responsibility alive.

Design/methodology/approach

Self-administered questionnaires were floated to gather data from employees of manufacturing and service industry. In order to analyze the collected data, regression analysis and correlation coefficient were employed to check hypotheses. Statistical Package of Social Sciences has been used for data analysis.

Findings

Results reveal that there is a direct positive relationship between EGB and environment sustainability. The five dimensions of EGB, i.e., working sustainability, conserving, avoiding harm, influencing others and taking initiative also have significant association with ES. ES carries with itself sensational openings for the HRM role and with the opportunity originates responsibility.

Practical implications

This study emphasizes the revised planning of training and development programs to create awareness among employees and strategies to improve ES and corporate social responsible level of organizations in competitive world.

Originality/value

This research carries a new horizon to explore the association of EGBs with ES in banking sector. The study presents first-ever empirical evidence about the relationship between ES and EGBs from developing countries.
Characterization of morphological conversion of Helicobacter pylori under anaerobic conditions
Authors: Hirukawa Sayaka , Sagara Hiroshi , Kaneto Satoshi , Kondo Tomoyo , Kiga Kotaro , Sanada Takahito , Kiyono Hiroshi , Mimuro Hitomi
Published: February 2018

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a gram‐negative microaerophilic bacterial pathogen that colonizes the stomachs of more than half of all humans, is linked to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. Spiral‐shaped H. pylori undergo morphologic conversion to a viable but not culturable coccoid form when they transit from the microaerobic stomach into the anaerobic intestinal tract. However, little is known about the morphological and pathogenic characteristics of H. pylori under prolonged anaerobic conditions. In this study, scanning electron microscopy was used to document anaerobiosis‐induced morphological changes of H. pylori, from helical to coccoid to a newly defined fragmented form. Western blot analysis indicated that all three forms express certain pathogenic proteins, including the bacterial cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA), components of the cag‐Type IV secretion system (TFSS), the blood group antigen‐binding adhesin BabA, and UreA (an apoenzyme of urease), almost equally. Similar urease activities were also detected in all three forms of H. pylori. However, in contrast to the helical form, bacterial motility and TFSS activity were found to have been abrogated in the anaerobiosis‐induced coccoid and fragmented forms of H. pylori. Notably, it was demonstrated that some of the anaerobiosis‐induced fragmented state cells could be converted to proliferation‐competent helical bacteria in vitro. These results indicate that prolonged exposure to the anaerobic intestine may not eliminate the potential for H. pylori to revert to the helical pathogenic state.
Glycosylation on proteins of the intestine and perimicrovillar membrane of Triatoma (Meccus) pallidipennis, under different feeding conditions
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Cabrera Ana E. , Zandberg Wesley F. , Zenteno Edgar , Rodríguez Mario H. , Espinoza Bertha , Lowenberger Carl
Published: February 2018

Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, interacts with molecules in the midgut of its insect vector to multiply and reach the infective stage. Many studies suggest that the parasite binds to midgut‐specific glycans. We identified several glycoproteins expressed in the intestine and perimicrovillar membrane (PMM) of Triatoma (Meccus) pallidipennis under different feeding conditions. In order to assess changes in protein‐linked glycans, we performed lectin and immunoblot analyses on glycoprotein extracts from these intestinal tissues using well‐characterized lectins, and an antibody, which collectively recognize a wide range of different glycans epitopes. We observed that the amount and composition of proteins and glycoproteins associated with different glycans structures changed over time in the intestines and PMM under different physiological conditions. PMM extracts contained a wide variety of glycoproteins with different sugar residues, including abundant high‐mannose and complex sialylated glycans. We propose that these molecules could be involved in the process of parasite–vector interactions.
Effect of adding midazolam to bupivacaine during rectus sheath block: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ammar A. , Mahmoud K. , Kasemy Z.
Published: February 2018

Background

Various adjuvants have been tried to improve quality and increase duration of local anaesthetics during various nerve blocks. We aimed to evaluate the effect of adding midazolam to bupivacaine on rectus sheath (RS) block in patients undergoing umbilical or epigastric hernia repair.

Methods

In all, 60 adult patients were divided into two equal groups, each group included 30 patients. Group I received 20 ml of bupivacaine hydrochloride 0.25% + midazolam 50 μg/kg in 2 ml saline 0.9% (Midazolam group, n = 30), whereas Group II received 20 ml of bupivacaine hydrochloride 0.25% + 2 ml saline (Control group, n = 30) for RS block on each side. The primary outcome was post‐operative 48 h morphine consumption, whereas secondary outcomes included analgesia duration, post‐operative pain, as evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain scoring at 1, 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h post‐operatively, reported post‐operative nausea and or vomiting (PONV), somnolence or any adverse drug reactions.

Results

The current study showed that addition of midazolam to bupivacaine for RS blockade provided good analgesia as evidenced by a statistically significant less morphine consumption in the post‐operative 48 h [11.2 (5.3–18.3) vs. 25.9 (15.2–31.0) mg, P = 0.002], longer duration of analgesia, lower VAS during post‐operative 48 h, lower incidence of PONV, somnolence and pruritus.

Conclusion

Midazolam addition to bupivacaine for RS blockade provided adjuvant analgesia as supported by less morphine consumption, longer duration of analgesia, and lower VAS score.
The SCN9A channel and plasma membrane depolarization promote cellular senescence through Rb pathway
Authors: Warnier Marine , Flaman Jean‐Michel , Chouabe Christophe , Wiel Clotilde , Gras Baptiste , Griveau Audrey , Blanc Elena , Foy Jean‐Philippe , Mathot Pauline , Saintigny Pierre , Van Coppenolle Fabien , Vindrieux David , Martin Nadine , Bernard David
Published: February 2018

Oncogenic signals lead to premature senescence in normal human cells causing a proliferation arrest and the elimination of these defective cells by immune cells. Oncogene‐induced senescence (OIS) prevents aberrant cell division and tumor initiation. In order to identify new regulators of OIS, we performed a loss‐of‐function genetic screen and identified that the loss of SCN9A allowed cells to escape from OIS. The expression of this sodium channel increased in senescent cells during OIS. This upregulation was mediated by NF‐κB transcription factors, which are well‐known regulators of senescence. Importantly, the induction of SCN9A by an oncogenic signal or by p53 activation led to plasma membrane depolarization, which in turn, was able to induce premature senescence. Computational and experimental analyses revealed that SCN9A and plasma membrane depolarization mediated the repression of mitotic genes through a calcium/Rb/E2F pathway to promote senescence. Taken together, our work delineates a new pathway, which involves the NF‐κB transcription factor, SCN9A expression, plasma membrane depolarization, increased calcium, the Rb/E2F pathway and mitotic gene repression in the regulation of senescence. This work thus provides new insight into the involvement of ion channels and plasma membrane potential in the control of senescence.
CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated MSTN disruption and heritable mutagenesis in goats causes increased body mass
Authors: Wang X. , Niu Y. , Zhou J. , Zhu H. , Ma B. , Yu H. , Yan H. , Hua J. , Huang X. , Qu L. , Chen Y.
Published: February 2018

Genetic engineering in livestock has been greatly enhanced through the use of artificial programmed nucleases such as the recently emerged clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated 9 (Cas9) system. We recently reported our successful application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to engineer the goat genome through micro‐injection of Cas9 mRNA and sgRNAs targeting MSTN and FGF5 in goat embryos. The phenotypes induced by edited loss‐of‐function mutations of MSTN remain to be evaluated extensively. We demonstrate the utility of this approach by disrupting MSTN, resulting in enhanced body weight and larger muscle fiber size in Cas9‐mediated gene‐modified goats. The effects of genome modifications were further characterized by H&E staining, quantitative PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Morphological and genetic analyses indicated the occurrence of phenotypic and genotypic modifications. We further provide sufficient evidence, including breeding data, to demonstrate the transmission of the knockout alleles through the germline. By phenotypic and genotypic characterization, we demonstrated the merit of using the CRISPR/Cas9 approach for establishing genetically modified livestock with an enhanced production trait.
Institutional Ownership and Stock Liquidity: International Evidence
Authors: Dang Tung Lam , Nguyen Thanh Huong , Tran Nguyen Tram Anh , Vo Thi Thuy Anh
Published: February 2018

This paper investigates the relation between institutional ownership and stock liquidity, and explores whether this relation differs across institutional settings. Using a comprehensive data set across 41 countries from 2000 to 2010, we find that institutional ownership is positively correlated with stock liquidity. Importantly, the positive association between institutional ownership and stock liquidity is stronger (weaker) for firms in countries with opaque (transparent) information environments or poor (good) institutional characteristics. Our additional analysis reveals that the positive association between institutional ownership and liquidity is attributable to non‐block institutional investors.
Oxygen concentration modulates cellular senescence and autophagy in human trophoblast cells
Authors: Seno Kotomi , Tanikawa Nao , Takahashi Hironori , Ohkuchi Akihide , Suzuki Hirotada , Matsubara Shigeki , Iwata Hisataka , Kuwayama Takehito , Shirasuna Koumei
Published: February 2018

Problem

We investigated the effect of oxygen concentrations on cellular senescence and autophagy and examined the role of autophagy in human trophoblast cells.

Method of study

Human first‐trimester trophoblast cells (Sw.71) were incubated under 21%, 5%, or 1% O2 concentrations for 24 hours. We examined the extent of senescence caused using senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐Gal) and senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) as markers. Moreover, we examined the role of autophagy in causing cellular senescence using an autophagy inhibitor (3‐methyladenine, 3MA).

Results

Physiological normoxia (5% O2) decreased SA‐β‐Gal‐positive cells and SASP including interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and IL‐8 compared with cultured cells in 21% O2. Pathophysiological hypoxia (1% O2) caused cytotoxicity, including extracellular release of ATP and lactate dehydrogenase, and decreased senescence phenotypes. 3MA‐treated trophoblast cells significantly suppressed senescence markers (SA‐β‐Gal‐positive cells and SASP secretion) in O2‐independent manner.

Conclusion

We conclude that O2 concentration modulates cellular senescence phenotypes regulating autophagy in the human trophoblast cells. Moreover, inhibiting autophagy suppresses cellular senescence, suggesting that autophagy contributes to oxygen stress‐induced cellular senescence.
Hepatobiliary Pathology in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: SINAASAPPEL M.
Published: February 2018

Overt liver disease in cystic fibrosis is a rare condition. Only 1–5 % of all patients show a severe disturbance of the liver cell function or portal hypertension. In contrast, liver architecture is much more often disturbed at post mortem examination. The experience is that liver pathology increases with age which will result in rising numbers of patients in the future parallel to the increasing life expectancy of the patients. Bile plugs are commonly found in the portal tract and probably represent the essential abnormality of the liver in CF. Recently new methods have been developed for the investigation of the bile synthesis which will be helpful in the understanding of the CF defect in the liver.
How do Small Groups Promote Behaviour Change? An Integrative Conceptual Review of Explanatory Mechanisms
Authors: Borek Aleksandra J. , Abraham Charles
Published: February 2018

Background

Small groups are used to promote health, well‐being, and personal change by altering members’ perceptions, beliefs, expectations, and behaviour patterns. An extensive cross‐disciplinary literature has articulated and tested theories explaining how such groups develop, function, and facilitate change. Yet these theoretical understandings are rarely applied in the development, description, and evaluation of health‐promotion, group‐based, behaviour‐change interventions.

Methods

Medline database, library catalogues, search engines, specific journals and reference lists were searched for relevant texts. Texts were reviewed for explanatory concepts or theories describing change processes in groups, which were integrated into the developing conceptual structure. This was designed to be a parsimonious conceptual framework that could be applied to design and delivery.

Results

Five categories of interacting processes and concepts were identified and defined: (1) group development processes, (2) dynamic group processes, (3) social change processes, (4) personal change processes, and (5) group design and operating parameters. Each of these categories encompasses a variety of theorised mechanisms explaining individual change in small groups.

Conclusion

The final conceptual model, together with the design issues and practical recommendations derived from it, provides a practical basis for linking research and theory explaining group functioning to optimal design of group‐based, behaviour‐change interventions.
Editorial: are additional tests needed to predict sustained virologic response in hepatitis C treated with interferon‐free direct‐acting antiviral combinations?
Authors: Ferenci P.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Fourati et al and Fourati and Pawlotsky papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14478 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14520.
Editorial: infliximab trough levels and histological healing in ulcerative colitis—a step towards personalised biologic therapy
Authors: Lobaton T. , De Vos M.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Papamichael et al. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14458.
Editorial: biologic therapy for chronic pouchitis – are we beginning to meet the unmet need?
Authors: Samaan M. A.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Bär et al paper. To view this paper visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14479.
Safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of vedolizumab in patients with simultaneous exposure to an anti‐tumour necrosis factor
Authors: Ben‐Horin S. , Ungar B. , Kopylov U. , Lahat A. , Yavzori M. , Fudim E. , Picard O. , Peled Y. , Eliakim R. , Del Tedesco E. , Paul S. , Roblin X.
Published: February 2018

Background

Data on combination‐biologic treatment in (IBD) are still scant.

Aim

To explore outcomes of patients co‐exposed to anti‐TNF and vedolizumab.

Methods

Patients starting vedolizumab having measurable anti‐TNF levels after recently stopping adalimumab/infliximab (‘VDZ‐aTNF’ group), were compared with control vedolizumab patients in a retrospective 1:2 matched case‐control study.

Results

Seventy‐five patients were included (25 VDZ‐aTNF, 50 VDZ). Adverse events were experienced by 9/25 VDZ‐aTNF compared to 13/50 VDZ patients (P = 0.4, follow‐up 14 weeks in all). Week 14 clinical remission was attained in 10/25 (40%) of VDZ‐aTNF patients versus 23/50 (46%) of VDZ patients (OR = 0.8, 95% CI 0.3‐2.1, P = 0.6) and clinical response in 19/25 (76%) versus 39/50 (78%) respectively (OR = 0.9, 95% CI 0.3‐2.7, P = 0.8). Corticosteroid‐free remission and corticosteroid‐free response were experienced by 30% and 54%, respectively, of the entire cohort, and were similar between the two groups. Vedolizumab drug concentrations at week 2, 6 and 14 were similar among VDZ‐aTNF and VDZ patients (P > 0.5). Multi‐variable analysis showed independent association of some vedolizumab drug‐levels time‐points with baseline albumin and weight, but not with anti‐TNF co‐exposure. In a prospective study of a separate cohort of patients starting infliximab (n = 12), the percentage of α4β7+ memory T cells, slightly but nonsignificantly increased throughout weeks 0, 2 to 14 (26 ± 2.3%, 27.8 ± 2.9%, 29.5 ± 2.6% respectively, P = 0.06).

Conclusions

Vedolizumab/anti‐TNF co‐exposure did not generate new safety signals during 14‐weeks induction, nor did it reduce efficacy or alter vedolizumab pharmacokinetics. These observations may aid the design of future co‐biologics trials and also suggest that a deliberate waiting‐interval between anti‐TNF cessation and subsequent vedolizumab initiation may not be warranted.
Developmental staging table of the green iguana
Authors: Lima Fabiano C. , Py‐Daniel Tainã R. , Sartori Marina R. , Abe Augusto S. , Santos Odeony Paulo dos , Freitas Letícia M. , Pereira Kleber F. , Sebben Antonio
Published: February 2018

Embryonic staging tables provide information to standardize embryological investigations and to subsidize discussions about evolution. We have established a developmental staging table for Iguana iguana iguana. The sample was composed of 142 embryos, incubated at a constant temperature and collected at regular intervals. Morphological features as pharyngeal arches, craniofacial structures, eyes, limbs, claws, pigmentation, scales and egg tooth were evaluated to determine development stages. The normal staging table includes 17 stages from oviposition to hatching, based on chronology and morphological external features. Stages from 1 to 27 occur before oviposition. Stage 28 was the first described, because all embryos presented limb bud anlage, key feature of the previous stage. We used pharyngeal arches and limb buds to describe the first stages; claws, genital papilla and scales to describe the middle stages; and pigmentation, size and egg tooth to describe the last stages. Incubation lasted approximately 2 months in a controlled environment. The results were similar to the data from other lizards, confirming the embryonic conservative pattern of the group.
The Institution of Sociological Theory in Canada
Authors: Guzman Cinthya , Silver Daniel
Published: February 2018

Using theory syllabi and departmental data collected for three academic years, this paper investigates the institutional practice of theory in sociology departments across Canada. In particular, it examines the position of theory within the sociological curriculum, and how this varies among universities. Taken together, our analyses indicate that theory remains deeply institutionalized at the core of sociological education and Canadian sociologists’ self‐understanding; that theorists as a whole show some coherence in how they define themselves, but differ in various ways, especially along lines of region, intellectual background, and gender; that despite these differences, the classical versus contemporary heuristic largely cuts across these divides, as does the strongly ingrained position of a small group of European authors as classics of the discipline as a whole. Nevertheless, who is a classic remains an unsettled question, alternatives to the “classical versus contemporary” heuristic do exist, and theorists’ syllabi reveal diverse “others” as potential candidates. Our findings show that the field of sociology is neither marked by universal agreement nor by absolute division when it comes to its theoretical underpinnings. To the extent that they reveal a unified field, the findings suggest that unity lies more in a distinctive form than in a distinctive content, which defines the space and structure of the field of sociology.
Clinical parameters of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome following different hormonal triggers of oocyte maturation in IVF treatment
Authors: Abbara A. , Islam R. , Clarke S.A. , Jeffers L. , Christopoulos G. , Comninos A.N. , Salim R. , Lavery S.A. , Vuong T.N.L. , Humaidan P. , Kelsey T.W. , Trew G.H. , Dhillo W.S.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious iatrogenic condition, predominantly related to the hormone used to induce oocyte maturation during IVF treatment. Kisspeptin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that has recently been demonstrated to safely trigger final oocyte maturation during IVF treatment even in women at high risk of OHSS. However, to date, the safety of kisspeptin has not been compared to current hormonal triggers of oocyte maturation.

Design

We conducted a retrospective single‐centre cohort study investigating symptoms and clinical parameters of early OHSS in women at high risk of OHSS (antral follicle count or total number of follicles on day of trigger ≥23) triggered with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) (n = 40), GnRH agonist (GnRHa; n = 99) or kisspeptin (n = 122) at Hammersmith Hospital IVF unit, London, UK (2013‐2016).

Results

Clinical Parameters of OHSS: Median ovarian volume was larger following hCG (138 ml) than GnRHa (73 ml; P < .0001), and in turn kisspeptin (44 ml; P < .0001). Median ovarian volume remained enlarged 20‐fold following hCG, 8‐fold following GnRHa and 5‐fold following kisspeptin compared to prestimulation ovarian volumes. Mean (±SD) ascitic volumes were lesser following GnRHa (9 ± 44 ml) and kisspeptin (5 ± 8 ml) than hCG (62 ± 84 ml; P < .0001). Symptoms of OHSS were most frequent following hCG and least frequent following kisspeptin. Diagnosis of OHSS: The odds ratio for OHSS diagnosis was 33.6 (CI 12.6‐89.5) following hCG and 3.6 (CI 1.8‐7.1) following GnRHa, when compared to kisspeptin.

Conclusion

Triggering oocyte maturation by inducing endogenous gonadotrophin release is preferable to the use of exogenous hCG in women at high risk of OHSS.
Injection testosterone and adverse cardiovascular events: A case‐crossover analysis
Authors: Layton J. Bradley , Li Dongmei , Meier Christoph R. , Sharpless Julie L. , Stürmer Til , Brookhart M. Alan
Published: February 2018

Context

Exogenous testosterone administration may affect blood clotting, polycythaemia, and may increase atherosclerosis, though any association with cardiovascular events is unclear. While the literature is inconclusive, some studies have suggested testosterone use may increase short‐term risk of cardiovascular events and stroke, and injection testosterone may convey higher risks than other dosage forms.

Objective

We sought to evaluate the short‐term cardiovascular risk of receiving injection testosterone.

Design

We conducted a case‐crossover analysis comparing injection testosterone exposure in the 7 days prior to an outcome event to referent windows in the past to estimate the acute association of cardiovascular outcomes with the receipt of testosterone injections.

Patients

We identified adult male testosterone users hospitalized with myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or a composite of MI, stroke or unstable angina in US commercial claims (2000‐2013) or Medicare (2007‐2010) databases.

Measurements

We identified testosterone use for the patients from pharmacy dispensing claims or in‐office procedure codes in the insurance billing data.

Results

We identified 2898 commercially insured men with events and recent testosterone use, and 339 from Medicare. Injected testosterone was associated with an increased risk of adverse events (composite outcome of myocardial infarction, stroke or unstable angina) in the immediate postinjection period for the older, Medicare population only: commercial insurance, odds ratios (OR) = 0.98 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.86‐1.12); Medicare, OR = 1.45 (1.07, 1.98). This association was either greatly attenuated or not present when evaluating receipt of any testosterone dosage forms (injection, gel, patch, implant): commercial insurance, OR = 1.01 (0.92, 1.11); Medicare, OR = 1.26 (95% CI: 0.98‐1.63).

Conclusions

Testosterone injections were uniquely associated with short‐term risk of acute cardio‐ and cerebrovascular events in older adult men following injection receipt.
Bmal1 knockdown suppresses wake and increases immobility without altering orexin A, corticotrophin‐releasing hormone, or glutamate decarboxylase
Authors: Akladious Afaf , Azzam Sausan , Hu Yufen , Feng Pingfu
Published: February 2018

Objective

To determine the effect of Bmal1 knockdown (KD) on sleep, activity, immobility, hypothalamic levels of orexin, corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH), and GABAergic glutamate decarboxylase (GAD).

Methods

We used Bmal1 siRNA, or control siRNA intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection to knock down Bmal1 in C57BL/6 mice. Sleep polysomnography, wheel‐running activity, and tail suspension test were performed. Polysomnographic (PSG) recordings in both groups were preceded by ICV injection made during both the light phase and the dark phase. We also measured brain orexin A and CRH using an ELISA and measured GAD using immunoblotting.

Results

Compared with control group, Bmal1 KD group had reduced wheel activity and increased immobility. Compared with control, the Bmal1 KD group had reduced wheel activity and increased immobility. During the first 24 hours after treatment, we observed that control siRNA induced a much greater increase in sleep during the dark phase, which was associated with lower orexin levels. However, beginning 24 hours after treatment, we observed an increase in sleep and a decrease in time spent awake during the dark phase in the Bmal1 KD group. These changes were not associated with changes in brain levels of orexin A, CRH, or GAD.

Conclusion

Bmal1 KD led to reduced activity, increased immobility, and dramatic reduction in time spent awake as well as an increase in sleep during the dark phase. Early after injection, there was a slight change in sleep but brain levels of orexin, CRH, and GAD remain unchanged. Control siRNA also affected sleep associated with changes in orexin levels.
Impact of blood flow‐restricted bodyweight exercise on skeletal muscle adaptations
Authors: Jakobsgaard J. E. , Christiansen M. , Sieljacks P. , Wang J. , Groennebaek T. , de Paoli F. , Vissing K.
Published: February 2018

This study ascertains the ability of bodyweight blood flow‐restricted (BFR) exercise training to promote skeletal muscle adaptations of significance for muscle accretion and metabolism. Six healthy young individuals (three males and three females) performed six weeks of bodyweight BFR training. Each session consisted of five sets of sit‐to‐stand BFR exercise to volitional failure with 30‐second inter‐set recovery. Prior to, and at least 72 h after training, muscle biopsies were taken from m. vastus lateralis to assess changes in fibre type‐specific cross‐sectional area (CSA), satellite cell (SC) and myonuclei content and capillarization, as well as mitochondrial protein expression. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess changes in whole thigh muscle CSA. Finally, isometric knee extensor muscle strength was evaluated. An increase in knee extensor whole muscle CSA was observed at middle and distal localizations after training (3·2% and 3·5%, respectively) (P<0·05), and a trend was observed towards an increase in type I fibre CSA, whereas muscle strength did not increase. Additionally, the number of SCs and myonuclei associated with type I fibres increased by 65·7% and 20%, respectively (P<0·05). No significant changes were observed in measures of muscle capillarization and mitochondrial proteins. In conclusion, six weeks of bodyweight‐based BFR exercise promoted myocellular adaptations related to muscle accretion, but not metabolic properties. Moreover, the study revealed that an appropriate total training volume needs further investigation before recommending bodyweight BFR to patient populations.
Superficial acral fibromyxoma in the heel with new vascular features on dermoscopy
Authors: Kara Polat Asude , Gore Karaali Muge , Turgut Erdemir Asli V. , Koku Aksu Ayse E. , Leblebici Cem , Gurel Mehmet S.
Published: February 2018

Superficial acral fibromyxoma (SAFM) is an uncommon mesenchymal soft tissue tumor with a predilection for the acral extremites and nail bed involvement. SAFM is diagnosed with clinicopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Awareness of this rare tumor is important because of amounts of benign and malignant neoplasms. We report a case of SAFM in a rare localization in the heel with a new finding on dermoscopy.
New developments in India concerning the policy of passive euthanasia
Authors: Kanniyakonil Scaria
Published: February 2018

Euthanasia and assisted dying are illegal in India according to Sections 306 and 309 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Article 21 of the Constitution of India. There have been a number of cases where the Indian High Courts and Indian Supreme Court issued differing verdicts concerning the right to life and the right to die. Nevertheless, on 7 March 2011, a paradigm shift happened as a result of the Indian Supreme Court's judgment on involuntary passive euthanasia in the case of Aruna Shanbaug. In its judgment, the Supreme Court requested the government to prepare a law on euthanasia. Accordingly, the 241st Report of the Law Commission of India proposed a bill to permit passive euthanasia. In May 2016 the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) issued the draft bill for public comment in order to create an informed decision. The Indian people are divided on the issue of euthanasia. The majority of the scientific community welcome it, while some religious groups oppose it. Hindus, in general, express both supporting and opposing views on euthanasia, whereas, Christians and Muslims have hardened their opposition against it. The Supreme Court judgment and the Report of the Law Commission pave the way for the development of new policies pertaining to passive euthanasia by the central government of India. Once such legislation is passed, passive euthanasia may, and probably will, have an enormous impact on the cultural, political, public and medical spheres of India in the near future.
Safety and tolerability of dapagliflozin, saxagliptin and metformin in combination: Post‐hoc analysis of concomitant add‐on versus sequential add‐on to metformin and of triple versus dual therapy with metformin
Authors: Del Prato Stefano , Rosenstock Julio , Garcia‐Sanchez Ricardo , Iqbal Nayyar , Hansen Lars , Johnsson Eva , Chen Hungta , Mathieu Chantal
Published: February 2018

The safety of triple oral therapy with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin plus metformin versus dual therapy with dapagliflozin or saxagliptin plus metformin was compared in a post‐hoc analysis of 3 randomized trials of sequential or concomitant add‐on of dapagliflozin and saxagliptin to metformin. In the concomitant add‐on trial, patients with type 2 diabetes on stable metformin received dapagliflozin 10 mg/d plus saxagliptin 5 mg/d. In sequential add‐on trials, patients on metformin plus either saxagliptin 5 mg/d or dapagliflozin 10 mg/d received dapagliflozin 10 mg/d or saxagliptin 5 mg/d, respectively, as add‐on therapy. After 24 weeks, incidences of adverse events and serious adverse events were similar between triple and dual therapy and between concomitant and sequential add‐on regimens. Urinary tract infections were more common with sequential than with concomitant add‐on therapy; genital infections were reported only with sequential add‐on of dapagliflozin to saxagliptin plus metformin. Hypoglycaemia incidence was <2.0% across all analysis groups. In conclusion, the safety and tolerability of triple therapy with dapagliflozin, saxagliptin and metformin, as either concomitant or sequential add‐on, were similar to dual therapy with either agent added to metformin.