bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Diagrams for the Analysis of Active Pressure on Retaining Walls with the Effect of Line Surcharge
Authors: Ahmadabadi Mojtaba , Faghirizadeh Mohammad Karim
Published: May 2017

In this study, a formulation has been proposed to calculate the pressure on wall and determine the angle of failure wedge based on limit equilibrium method. The mentioned formulation is capable of calculating active pressure coefficient, culmination of forces in failure surface, and pressure distribution on wall with the effect of line surcharge. In addition, based on the proposed method, a simple formula has been proposed to calculate the angle of failure wedge by the effect of surcharge. Moreover, the proposed approach has the advantage of taking into account the effect of surcharge on elastoplastic environment by considering the parameters of soil and determining the extent to which the surcharge is effective in pressure distribution on the wall. However, in most previous methods and specifications, resultant lateral pressure from surcharge in elastic environment had been considered. Finally, based on the obtained results, the design diagrams for different soils and different surcharges have been proposed. According to these diagrams, pressure on wall, pressure distribution on wall, and angle of failure wedge will easily be achieved. Also, a computer program has been written in MATLAB software environment. Using the results of these codes, the pressure on wall with the effect of surcharge, the angle of failure wedge, and pressure distribution on wall will be determined.
RETRACTED: Role of Rac1 Pathway in Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Stem-like Cell Phenotypes in Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yoon Changhwan , Cho Soo-Jeong , Chang Kevin K. , Park Do Joong , Ryeom Sandra W. , Yoon Sam S.
Published: May 2017

Rac1, a Rho GTPase family member, is dysregulated in a variety of tumor types including gastric adenocarcinoma, but little is known about its role in cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). Therefore, Rac1 activity and inhibition were examined in gastric adenocarcinoma cells and mouse xenograft models for epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and CSC phenotypes. Rac1 activity was significantly higher in spheroid-forming or CD44+ gastric adenocarcinoma CSCs compared with unselected cells. Rac1 inhibition using Rac1 shRNA or a Rac1 inhibitor (NSC23766) decreased expression of the self-renewal transcription factor, Sox-2, decreased spheroid formation by 78%–81%, and prevented tumor initiation in immunodeficient mice. Gastric adenocarcinoma CSCs had increased expression of the EMT transcription factor Slug, 4.4- to 8.3-fold greater migration, and 4.2- to 12.6-fold greater invasion than unselected cells, and these increases could be blocked completely with Rac1 inhibition. Gastric adenocarcinoma spheroid cells were resistant to 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin chemotherapy, and this chemotherapy resistance could be reversed with Rac1 shRNA or NSC23766. The PI3K/Akt pathway may be upstream of Rac1, and JNK may be downstream of Rac1. In the MKN-45 xenograft model, cisplatin inhibited tumor growth by 50%, Rac1 inhibition by 35%, and the combination by 77%. Higher Rac1 activity, in clinical specimens from gastric adenocarcinoma patients who underwent potentially curative surgery, correlated with significantly worse survival (P = 0.017). In conclusion, Rac1 promotes the EMT program in gastric adenocarcinoma and the acquisition of a CSC state. Rac1 inhibition in gastric adenocarcinoma cells blocks EMT and CSC phenotypes, and thus may prevent metastasis and augment chemotherapy.

Implications: In gastric adenocarcinoma, therapeutic targeting of the Rac1 pathway may prevent or reverse EMT and CSC phenotypes that drive tumor progression, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. Mol Cancer Res; 15(8); 1106–16. ©2017 AACR.
Human Tumor Antigens Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
Authors: Finn Olivera J.
Published: May 2017

The question of whether human tumors express antigens that can be recognized by the immune system has been answered with a resounding YES. Most were identified through spontaneous antitumor humoral and cellular immune responses found in cancer patients and include peptides, glycopeptides, phosphopeptides, viral peptides, and peptides resulting from common mutations in oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes, or common gene fusion events. Many have been extensively tested as candidates for anticancer vaccines. More recently, attention has been focused on the potentially large number of unique tumor antigens, mutated neoantigens, that are the predicted products of the numerous mutations revealed by exome sequencing of primary tumors. Only a few have been confirmed as targets of spontaneous immunity and immunosurveillance, and even fewer have been tested in preclinical and clinical settings. The field has been divided for a long time on the relative importance of shared versus mutated antigens in tumor surveillance and as candidates for vaccines. This question will eventually need to be answered in a head to head comparison in well-designed clinical trials. One advantage that shared antigens have over mutated antigens is their potential to be used in vaccines for primary cancer prevention. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(5); 347–54. ©2017 AACR.
Prenatal Sacral Anomalies Leading to the Detection of Associated Spinal Cord Malformations
Authors: Morel Baptiste , Friszer Stéphanie , Jouannic Jean-Marie , Ducou Le Pointe Hubert , Blondiaux Eléonore , Garel Catherine
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Systematic analysis of the spine is recommended as part of the basic sonographic examination. The aim of our study is to assess the proportion of spinal cord anomalies diagnosed following detection of a sacral anomaly. Material and Methods: We analyzed retrospectively collected data in a prenatal tertiary center during a 9-year period. Patients were referred for second-line ultrasound in the context of diabetes mellitus or following detection of pelvic or lower spine anomalies. We included all cases of sacral anomalies with available postnatal or postmortem outcomes (imaging and/or pathologic data) and excluded all cases of open dysraphism (myelomeningocele). Results: Nineteen patients were included. The mean gestational age was 28 weeks (21-39). Sacral anomalies included 2 cases of complete agenesis, 12 cases of partial agenesis, 4 segmentation anomalies, and 1 case of abnormal angulation of the sacral spine. Fourteen associated spinal cord malformations included 8 tethered spinal cords, 5 truncated spinal cords, and 1 lipoma of the filum terminale. All anomalies were confirmed by postnatal or postmortem examinations. Conclusions: Sacral anomalies detected during basic sonographic examination represent an important warning sign for associated spinal cord anomalies, with possible poor neonatal outcome.
Neurodegeneration and the Cerebellum
Authors: Samson Margot , Claassen Daniel O.
Published: May 2017

Background: The cerebellum modulates diverse neuronal networks, regulating motor, cognitive, behavioral, and limbic circuits. Structural and functional changes to the cerebellum that occur with neurodegenerative conditions have not been systematically reviewed. Objective: We synthesize the current understanding of cerebellar somatotopy and function with previously described cerebellar changes in neurodegenerative diseases not associated with primary cerebellar pathology. Methods: A thorough literature review defines the role of the cerebellum in normal function and neurodegeneration, and we additionally provide exemplar cases of cerebellar dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders. Results: Comparisons between normal function and neurodegenerative disease states emphasize how normal organization of the cerebellum is altered in neurodegenerative disease states. We illustrate key anatomic structures using novel cerebellar segmentation tools and images. Conclusions: Altered cerebellum in neurodegeneration can provide important diagnostic and pathologic insights into both predicting disease progression and network dysfunction.
Bilaterale, gleichzeitige rhegmatogene Netzhautablösung nach Laser-in-situ-Keratomileusis
Authors: Yumusak Erhan , Ornek Kemal , Ozkal Fatma
Published: May 2017

Bei einer 21-jährigen Frau trat nach einer Laser-in-situ-Keratomileusis (LASIK) beider Augen bilateral gleichzeitig eine rhegmatogene Netzhautablösung auf. Sie unterzog sich daraufhin einer Pars-plana-Vitrektomie in Kombination mit Endolaser-Photokoagulation und Silikonöl-Tamponade im rechten Auge. Eine Woche später wurde am linken Auge eine pneumatische Retinopexie durchgeführt. Da sich der Netzhautriss nicht verschloss, wurde eine 360°-Sklera-Eindellung durchgeführt und die Netzhaut so befestigt. Die bilaterale simultane rhegmatogene Netzhautablösung nach LASIK zur Myopiekorrektur kann eine schwerwiegende Komplikation darstellen. Die Patienten sollten über die Möglichkeit dieser Komplikation aufgeklärt werden. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Ophthalmol 2016;7:340-344 (DOI:10.1159/000446602)
Effect of Febuxostat on the Endothelial Dysfunction in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Study
Authors: Alshahawey Mona , Shahin Sara Mahmoud , Elsaid Tamer Wahid , Sabri Nagwa Ali
Published: May 2017

Background: Endothelial dysfunction is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases to occur in end-stage renal disease patients. Febuxostat, being a novel xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is apparently having a beneficial role in improving the endothelial dysfunction; however, data among hemodialysis patients are still limited. Methods: A prospective, placebo-controlled, block-randomized, double-blinded study was carried out to evaluate the effect of oral febuxostat on the endothelial dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. Fifty-seven eligible hemodialysis patients were randomly assigned to either the drug group (40 mg thrice weekly) or the placebo group. Serum Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), Serum uric acid (UA), and serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured at baseline and at the end of a 2-month study. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and the occurrence of pancytopenia were tested as safety parameters at baseline and at the end of study. Results: Serum UA significantly decreased from 7.5 ± 0.8 to 5.1 ± 1.2 mg/dL in the febuxostat group, while it did not change significantly in the placebo group. Treatment with febuxostat resulted in a significant decrease in the serum ADMA level from 1.027 ± 0.116 to 0.944 ± 0.104 µmol/L and the serum hsCRP level from 12.5 ± 1.65 to 12.1 ± 1.70 mg/L. Testing of serum ALT, serum AST, and pancytopenia revealed no significant difference in both groups. Conclusion: Febuxostat appears to improve hyperuricemia and endothelial dysfunction and ameliorate inflammation in hemodialysis patients with no safety concerns.
Early Delivery of Sacrococcygeal Teratoma with Intraspinal Extension
Authors: Perrone Erin E. , Jarboe Marcus D. , Maher Cormac O. , Berman Deborah R. , Ladino-Torres Maria , Kreutzman Jeannie , Treadwell Marjorie C. , Mychaliska George B.
Published: May 2017

Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) with intraspinal extension is rare. There is a risk of paraplegia associated with prolonged spinal cord compression. We present the case of an infant with a prenatal diagnosis of an SCT with a large intraspinal component that was causing compression of the lower spinal cord. Ultrasound at 33 weeks showed bilateral lower extremity and foot movement without hydrops or cardiac failure. Multidisciplinary decision was made to administer betamethasone and proceed with Cesarean delivery at 34 weeks. A vigorous live-born female was delivered and a multilevel laminectomy was performed at day of life 4. The pelvic resection was performed at 4 months. Pathology revealed mature teratoma. She had an uncomplicated postoperative course, is ambulatory, continent of stool, and has no evidence of recurrence. We conclude that intraspinal extension of SCT should be evaluated prenatally with ultrasound and fetal MRI. If there is concern for spinal cord compression, early delivery and urgent decompressive laminectomy may diminish the neurologic sequelae of prolonged spinal cord compression. Since these cases are rare, risks of prematurity need to be weighed against the neurologic risks. These infants should be treated with a multidisciplinary approach.
A Novel Partial Duplication of ZEB2 and Review of ZEB2 Involvement in Mowat-Wilson Syndrome
Authors: Baxter Adrianne L. , Vivian Jay L. , Hagelstrom R. Tanner , Hossain Waheeda , Golden Wendy L. , Wassman E. Robert , Vanzo Rena J. , Butler Merlin G.
Published: May 2017

Mowat-Wilson syndrome is a rare genetic condition characterized by intellectual disability, structural anomalies, and dysmorphic features. It is caused by haploinsufficiency of the ZEB2 gene in chromosome 2q22.3. Over 180 distinct mutations in ZEB2 have been reported, including nonsense and missense point mutations, deletions, and large chromosomal rearrangements. We report on a 14-year-old female with a clinical diagnosis of Mowat-Wilson syndrome. Chromosomal microarray identified a novel de novo 69-kb duplication containing exons 1 and 2 of the ZEB2 gene. Sequence analysis identified no other variants in this gene. This is the first report of a partial duplication of the ZEB2 gene resulting in Mowat-Wilson syndrome.
Preventive Effect of Clazosentan against Cerebral Vasospasm after Clipping Surgery for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Japanese and Korean Patients
Authors: Fujimura Miki , Joo Jin-Yang , Kim Jong-Soo , Hatta Motonori , Yokoyama Yoshinari , Tominaga Teiji
Published: May 2017

Background: Clazosentan has been explored worldwide for the prophylaxis of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). In a dose-finding trial (CONSCIOUS-1) conducted in Israel, Europe, and North America, clazosentan (1, 5, and 15 mg/h) significantly reduced the incidence of cerebral vasospasm, but its efficacy in Japanese and Korean patients was unknown. We conducted a double-blind comparative study to evaluate the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm in Japanese and Korean patients with aSAH. Methods: The aim of this multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-finding phase 2 clinical trial, was to evaluate the efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of clazosentan (5 and 10 mg/h) against cerebral vasospasm after clipping surgery in Japanese and Korean patients with aSAH. Patients aged between 20 and 75 years were administered the study drug within 56 h after the aneurysm rupture and up to day 14 post-aSAH. The incidence of vasospasm, defined as an inner artery diameter reduction of major intracranial arteries ≥34% based on catheter angiography, was compared between each treatment group. Cerebral infarction due to vasospasm at 6 weeks and patients' outcome at 3 months was also compared. Results: Among 181 enrolled patients, 158 completed the study and were analyzed. The incidence of vasospasm up to day 14 after aSAH onset was 80.0% in the placebo group (95% CI 67.0-89.6), 38.5% in the 5 mg/h clazosentan group (95% CI 25.3-53.0), and 35.3% in the 10 mg/h clazosentan group (95% CI 22.4-49.9), indicating that the incidence of vasospasm was significantly reduced by clazosentan treatment (placebo vs. 5 mg/h clazosentan, p < 0.0001; placebo vs. 10 mg/h clazosentan, p < 0.0001). The occurrence of cerebral infarction due to vasospasm was 20.8% in the placebo group (95% CI 10.8-34.1), 3.8% in the 5 mg/h clazosentan group (95% CI 0.5-13.2), and 4.2% in the 10 mg/h clazosentan group (95% CI 0.5-14.3), indicating that clazosentan significantly reduced the occurrence of cerebral infarctions caused by vasospasm (placebo vs. 5 mg/h clazosentan, p = 0.0151; placebo vs. 10 mg/h clazosentan, p = 0.0165). The overall incidence of all-cause death and/or vasospasm-related morbidity/mortality was significantly reduced in the 10 mg/h clazosentan group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.0003). Conclusion: These results suggest that clazosentan prevents cerebral vasospasm and subsequent cerebral infarction, and could thereby improve outcomes after performing a clipping surgery for aSAH in Japanese and Korean patients.
Engineering the Rapid Adenovirus Production and Amplification (RAPA) Cell Line to Expedite the Generation of Recombinant Adenoviruses
Authors: Wei Qiang , Fan Jiaming , Liao Junyi , Zou Yulong , Song Dongzhe , Liu Jianxiang , Cui Jing , Liu Feng , Ma Chao , Hu Xue , Li Li , Yu Yichun , Qu Xiangyang , Chen Liqun , Yu Xinyi , Zhang Zhicai , Zhao Chen , Zeng Zongyue , Zhang Ruyi , Yan Shujuan , Wu Xingye , Shu Yi , Reid Russell R. , Lee Michael J. , Wolf Jennifer Moritis , He Tong-Chuan
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: While recombinant adenoviruses are among the most widely-used gene delivery vectors and usually propagated in HEK-293 cells, generating recombinant adenoviruses remains time-consuming and labor-intense. We sought to develop a rapid adenovirus production and amplification (RAPA) line by assessing human Ad5 genes (E1A, E1B19K/55K, pTP, DBP, and DNA Pol) and OCT1 for their contributions to adenovirus production. Methods: Stable transgene expression in 293T cells was accomplished by using piggyBac system. Transgene expression was determined by qPCR. Adenoviral production was assessed with titering, fluorescent markers and/or luciferase activity. Osteogenic activity was assessed by measuring alkaline phosphatase activity. Results: Overexpression of both E1A and pTP led to a significant increase in adenovirus amplification, whereas other transgene combinations did not significantly affect adenovirus amplification. When E1A and pTP were stably expressed in 293T cells, the resultant RAPA line showed high efficiency in adenovirus amplification and production. The produced AdBMP9 infected mesenchymal stem cells with highest efficiency and induced most effective osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, adenovirus production efficiency in RAPA cells was dependent on the amount of transfected DNA. Under optimal transfection conditions high-titer adenoviruses were obtained within 5 days of transfection. Conclusion: The RAPA cells are highly efficient for adenovirus production and amplification.
Loss of Cardioprotective Effects at the
ADAMTS7
Locus as a Result of Gene-Smoking Interactions
Authors: Saleheen Danish , Zhao Wei , Young Robin , Nelson Christopher P. , Ho WeangKee , Ferguson Jane F. , Rasheed Asif , Ou Kristy , Nurnberg Sylvia T. , Bauer Robert C. , Goel Anuj , Do Ron , Stewart Alexandre F.R. , Hartiala Jaana , Zhang Weihua , Thorleifsson Gudmar , Strawbridge Rona J. , Sinisalo Juha , Kanoni Stavroula , Sedaghat Sanaz , Marouli Eirini , Kristiansson Kati , Hua Zhao Jing , Scott Robert , Gauguier Dominique , Shah Svati H. , Smith Albert Vernon , van Zuydam Natalie , Cox Amanda J. , Willenborg Christina , Kessler Thorsten , Zeng Lingyao , Province Michael A. , Ganna Andrea , Lind Lars , Pedersen Nancy L. , White Charles C. , Joensuu Anni , Edi Kleber Marcus , Hall Alistair S. , März Winfried , Salomaa Veikko , O’Donnell Christopher , Ingelsson Erik , Feitosa Mary F. , Erdmann Jeanette , Bowden Donald W. , Palmer Colin N.A. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Faire Ulf De , Zalloua Pierre , Wareham Nicholas , Thompson John R. , Kuulasmaa Kari , Dedoussis George , Perola Markus , Dehghan Abbas , Chambers John C. , Kooner Jaspal , Allayee Hooman , Deloukas Panos , McPherson Ruth , Stefansson Kari , Schunkert Heribert , Kathiresan Sekar , Farrall Martin , Marcel Frossard Philippe , Rader Daniel J. , Samani Nilesh J. , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Common diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD) are complex in etiology. The interaction of genetic susceptibility with lifestyle factors may play a prominent role. However, gene-lifestyle interactions for CHD have been difficult to identify. Here, we investigate interaction of smoking behavior, a potent lifestyle factor, with genotypes that have been shown to associate with CHD risk.

Methods:

We analyzed data on 60 919 CHD cases and 80 243 controls from 29 studies for gene-smoking interactions for genetic variants at 45 loci previously reported to be associated with CHD risk. We also studied 5 loci associated with smoking behavior. Study-specific gene-smoking interaction effects were calculated and pooled using fixed-effects meta-analyses. Interaction analyses were declared to be significant at a
P
value of <1.0×10
–3
(Bonferroni correction for 50 tests).

Results:

We identified novel gene-smoking interaction for a variant upstream of the
ADAMTS7
gene. Every T allele of rs7178051 was associated with lower CHD risk by 12% in never-smokers (
P
=1.3×10
–16
) in comparison with 5% in ever-smokers (
P
=2.5×10
–4
), translating to a 60% loss of CHD protection conferred by this allelic variation in people who smoked tobacco (interaction
P
value=8.7×10
–5
). The protective T allele at rs7178051 was also associated with reduced
ADAMTS7
expression in human aortic endothelial cells and lymphoblastoid cell lines. Exposure of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells to cigarette smoke extract led to induction of
ADAMTS7.

Conclusions:

Allelic variation at rs7178051 that associates with reduced
ADAMTS7
expression confers stronger CHD protection in never-smokers than in ever-smokers. Increased vascular
ADAMTS7
expression may contribute to the loss of CHD protection in smokers.
Systematic revision of the Andean butterfly genus Orophila Staudinger, 1886 (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Biblidinae)
Authors: ZUBEK ANNA , PYRCZ TOMASZ , LORENC-BRUDECKA JADWIGA , BOYER PIERRE , CERDEÑA JOSE , MAHECHA-JIMÉNEZ OSCAR , HUERTAS BLANCA
Published: May 2017

A systematic review of the Neotropical butterfly genus Orophila Staudinger, 1886 based on morphological characters and geographical distribution is presented. Four species are recognized: O. campaspe (Hewitson, 1869) stat. rest., O. cardases (Hewitson, 1869), O. cecidas (Hewitson, 1869) stat. rest. and O. diotima (Hewitson, 1852). Other changes proposed include treating Orophila diotima footei (Lamas, 2003) syn. n. and O. cardases zurita (Fruhstorfer, 1916) syn. n. as synonyms of other taxa. Illustrations of adult males and male genitalia of all taxa are presented and the importance of morphological characters in both males and females is evaluated. Female specimens and genitalia are illustrated for the first time for O. c. cardases, O. cecidas and O. diotima. Lectotypes are designated for two nominal taxa.
A new genus of the mite family Scutacaridae (Acari: Heterostigmata) associated with Trinervitermes trinervoides (Isoptera: Termitidae) from South Africa
Authors: KHAUSTOV ALEXANDER A. , HUGO-COETZEE ELIZABETH A. , ERMILOV SERGEY G.
Published: May 2017

A new monotypic genus of scutacarid mites, Gerdalbertia gen. nov. (Acari: Pygmephoroidea: Scutacaridae), with type species G. elongata sp. nov. is described from nests of and phoretic on termites, Trinervitermes trinervoides (Sjostedt, 1911) (Isoptera: Termitidae), from South Africa. The taxonomic position of the new genus is discussed.
Nanomaterials for Craniofacial and Dental Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li G. , Zhou T. , Lin S. , Shi S. , Lin Y.
Published: May 2017

Tissue engineering shows great potential as a future treatment for the craniofacial and dental defects caused by trauma, tumor, and other diseases. Due to the biomimetic features and excellent physiochemical properties, nanomaterials are of vital importance in promoting cell growth and stimulating tissue regeneration in tissue engineering. For craniofacial and dental tissue engineering, the frequently used nanomaterials include nanoparticles, nanofibers, nanotubes, and nanosheets. Nanofibers are attractive for cell invasion and proliferation because of their resemblance to extracellular matrix and the presence of large pores, and they have been used as scaffolds in bone, cartilage, and tooth regeneration. Nanotubes and nanoparticles improve the mechanical and chemical properties of scaffold, increase cell attachment and migration, and facilitate tissue regeneration. In addition, nanofibers and nanoparticles are also used as a delivery system to carry the bioactive agent in bone and tooth regeneration, have better control of the release speed of agent upon degradation of the matrix, and promote tissue regeneration. Although applications of nanomaterials in tissue engineering remain in their infancy with numerous challenges to face, the current results indicate that nanomaterials have massive potential in craniofacial and dental tissue engineering.
A revolutionary crowd model: Implemented to contrast oscillating to consistent media influence on crowd behavior
Authors: Ibrahim Yasser , Hassan Rasha
Published: May 2017

Since Le Bon introduced his profound theory about the crowd in 1895, the phenomenon has been investigated across a range of scientific disciplines. Nevertheless, the mystery of the popular mind seems so far unrevealed, especially with the emergence of unfamiliar crowd movements, such as Twitter revolutions, which are triggered by novel types of media and interpersonal communication. Such original collective behavior, along with the current turbulent sociopolitical global environment, has necessitated the development of explanatory contemporary models. This research introduces a new revolutionary crowd model with a unique set of internal and external factors that can fit the modern uprisings in order to enable the understanding of the conditions that could lead to or prohibit the formation of revolutionary crowds. The model is implemented to examine the effectiveness of oscillating intensified mass media on the crowd pattern and dynamics. Among several emergent behaviors, the model shows an insignificant impact of disrupted intensified media on the crowd, in contrast with consistent low-intensity media, the failure of contagion theory in sustaining a revolution without a persistent stimulus, and the refutation of current claims of the insignificancy of leaders’ roles in igniting and maintaining modern crowds.
Urban crisis: Bonfire of vanities to find opportunities in the ashes
Authors: May Tim
Published: May 2017

This article argues that a critical urban studies needs to examine the reproduction of crisis in cities not just at a macro level, but also in the day-to-day activities in urban administrations. Time and power are implicated in frenetic activities in which officials find themselves beleaguered by the pace of change and the opportunities for learning then evaporate. An urban imaginary, based on permanent possibilities for the future, enables a culture of expertise to emerge that is at odds with democracy through a separation between the forms of justification it deploys and the contexts of its application. That process enables a spectator view of the urban that is fed by an antiseptic scientism in which models and ideas for urban development circulate without sensitivity to context. The article calls for a movement away from these narrowly constituted forms of knowledge production and reception to provide a responsible politics through a more open and inclusive approach to urban development.
Risk, commercialism and social purpose: Repositioning the English housing association sector
Authors: Manzi Tony , Morrison Nicky
Published: May 2017

Originally seen as the ‘third arm’ of UK housing policy, the independent, not-for-profit housing association sector had long been seen as effective in ‘filling the gap’ where the state or market were unable to provide for households in need. Since the 1980s in particular, successive governments had viewed housing associations in favourable terms as efficient, semi-autonomous social businesses, capable of leveraging significant private funding. By 2015, in contrast, central government had come to perceive the sector as inefficient, bureaucratic and wasteful of public subsidy. Making use of institutional theory, this paper considers this paradigm shift and examines the organisational responses to an increasingly challenging operating environment. By focusing, in particular, on large London housing associations, the paper analyses their strategic decision-making to address the opportunities and threats presented. The paper argues that in facing an era of minimal subsidy, low security and high risk, the 2015 reforms represent a critical juncture for the sector. Housing organisations face a stark dilemma about whether to continue a strategy of ‘profit for purpose’ or to embrace an unambiguously commercial ethos. The article contends that the trajectory of decision-making (although not unidirectional) leads ultimately towards an increased exposure to risk and vulnerability to changes in the housing market. More fundamentally, the attempt to reconcile social and commercial logics is likely to have wider consequences for the legitimacy of the sector.
They Don’t Care if We Die: The Violence of Urban Policing in Puerto Rico
Authors: LeBrón Marisol
Published: May 2017

In this essay, I trace how punitive policing in Puerto Rico has deepened existing racial, spatial, and class-based inequalities and further limited life chances for some of Puerto Rico’s most vulnerable citizens. To demonstrate how policing intensified forms of violent exclusion, I focus on mano dura contra el crimen, or iron fist against crime, a law enforcement initiative that sought to eliminate drug-related crime and violence by targeting public housing and other low-income spaces around the island for joint military and police raids during the 1990s. I argue that mano dura promoted an uneven distribution of risk, harm, and death by tacitly allowing the proliferation of violence within economically and racially marginalized communities. Although law enforcement agents engaged in acts of intimidation, harassment, and brutality during mano dura operations, it is perhaps the measures they implemented to concentrate violence in low-income communities that most contributed to the premature death and proximity to harm that barrio and public housing residents experienced. Furthermore, police and other state officials positioned the alarmingly high levels of drug-related violence and death occurring within the confines of these classed and racialized urban spaces as a necessary by-product of the island’s “war on drugs.” Ultimately, police intervention under the auspices of protecting el pueblo puertorriqueño, or the Puerto Rican people, as well as those moments when police deliberately “failed” to prevent violence related to the informal drug economy resulted in greater exposure to harm and death for marginalized communities on the island.
Treatment of Neurogenic Cough with Tramadol: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dion Gregory R. , Teng Stephanie E. , Achlatis Efstratios , Fang Yixin , Amin Milan R.
Published: May 2017

This study employs validated cough assessment tools to prospectively determine the impact of tramadol on cough severity and quality of life in subjects with neurogenic cough. The study was a prospective case series with planned data collection at a tertiary care academic medical center laryngology practice. Sixteen consecutive collected subjects with neurogenic cough prospectively completed pre‐ and posttreatment validated cough assessment tools, the cough severity index (CSI) and Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ). All subjects in the study reported at least some improvement in their cough symptoms. In a Wilcoxon signed rank test that compared paired results, CSI scores improved from 23 to 14 and LCQ scores improved from 74 to 103 (P =. 003 and P =. 005, respectively). This small preliminary assessment suggests that tramadol warrants additional evaluation as a treatment for neurogenic cough.
Statistical Considerations in Otolaryngology Journals
Authors: Blakley Brian W. , Janzen Bryan
Published: May 2017

Statistics can be intimidating for clinicians and reviewers. Statistics are often important and useful but can mislead. Elaborate statistics can support conclusions that contradict clinical experience. This article explores some statistically related insights. Statistical reasons for rejecting papers were collated, and the frequency and complexity of statistical tests in accepted, published papers in otolaryngology journals were then studied. Most statistical errors in papers are logical misinterpretations of information rather than lack of understanding of statistics. Otolaryngology papers tend to employ relatively straightforward statistics that should be useful for clinicians. Although evidence‐based medicine has changed medical publishing, clinical knowledge is more important that statistical knowledge for clinical applications of statistics.
Letters of Recommendation: Association with Interviewers’ Perceptions and Preferences
Authors: Young VyVy N.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Letters of recommendation (LORs) are an inescapable aspect of the application process. Standardized LORs (SLORs) have been developed and compared with traditional narrative LORs (NLORs). This study investigated whether there was a difference in degree of association between LOR types and face‐to‐face interviews. Interviewer preference for LOR was anonymously surveyed.

Study Design

Survey.

Setting

Single‐institution otolaryngology residency program, 1 year before and 4 years after introduction of SLORs.

Subjects and Methods

Residency interviewers indicated on a visual analog scale how well their impression of an applicant compared between the LOR and the face‐to‐face interview. Interviewers assessed each applicant, each year, based on LOR type.

Results

Of 2573 assessments, 964 were collected (37.5% response rate), including 927 responses related to NLORs, 561 to SLORs, and 316 to medical student performance evaluations (ie, dean’s letters). The average association of VAS scores between LORs and interviews ranged from 72 to 81 across years and LOR types. Sixty‐one percent of interviewers preferred NLORs, and 13% preferred SLORs. Reasons for these preferences included more information provided in NLORs versus faster read time with SLORs.

Conclusions

Interviewers’ perceptions of applicants based on LORs and face‐to‐face interviews were comparable across LOR types over the last 5 years. For many reasons, the general utility of the LOR remains questionable, and the continued need for it should be critically assessed.
Agent-based Simulation of Wealth, Capital and Asset Distribution on Stock Markets
Authors: Moiseev Nikita A. , Akhmadeev Bulat A.
Published: May 2017

This article presents an agent-based simulation model of a stock exchange functioning with consideration of its main mechanisms. By contrast with other similar models, this model considers a clearing price calculation by a turnover maximization. Given various types of agents’ behaviour patterns, set exogenously, we have explored the dynamics and characteristics of assets, capital and wealth distributions in time. We reveal what mechanisms drive asset price up or down and infer that static agents’ characteristics, whatever they are, quickly lead to a flat market. It is shown that independently of agents’ strategy wealth distribution becomes more and more positively skewed as time tends to infinity, to what we give a mathematical reasoning. Moreover, different behaviour patterns affect the speed of inequality growth, which is illustrated by Gini coefficient dynamics. We also analyze the revealed effects and give for them a mathematical explanation.

JEL: C6, G1, I3, E3
Varying Metacognition Through Public Opinion Questions: How Language Can Affect Political Engagement
Authors: Shulman Hillary C. , Sweitzer Matthew D.
Published: May 2017

Guided by feelings-as-information theory, this experiment examined whether the difficulty of language in public opinion questions would influence reports of political interest and political efficacy. Results ( N = 235) found that exposure to the easy language condition led to higher reports of political interest and efficacy than in the difficult language condition and that this effect was mediated by processing fluency. These findings proffer implications for the strategic use of language in political engagement and civic education initiatives.
Incidence and Detection of Meniscal Ramp Lesions on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: DePhillipo Nicholas N. , Cinque Mark E. , Chahla Jorge , Geeslin Andrew G. , Engebretsen Lars , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Meniscal ramp lesions have been reported to be present in 9% to 17% of patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Detection at the time of arthroscopy can be accomplished based on clinical suspicion and careful evaluation. Preoperative assessment via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been reported to have a low sensitivity in identifying meniscal ramp lesions.

Purpose:

To investigate the incidence of meniscal ramp lesions in patients with ACL tears and the sensitivity of preoperative MRI for the detection of ramp lesions.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All patients who underwent ACL reconstruction by a single surgeon between 2010 and 2016 were included in this study, and patients with medial meniscal ramp lesions found at the time of arthroscopy were identified. The sensitivity of MRI compared with the gold standard of arthroscopic evaluation was determined by review of the preoperative MRI musculoskeletal radiologist report, mimicking the clinical scenario. The incidence was calculated based on arthroscopic findings, and the potential secondary signs of meniscal ramp tears were evaluated on MRI.

Results:

In a consecutive series of 301 ACL reconstructions, 50 patients (33 male, 17 female) with a mean age of 29.6 years (range, 14-61 years) were diagnosed with a medial meniscal ramp lesion at arthroscopic evaluation (16.6% incidence). The sensitivity of MRI for ramp lesions was 48% based on the preoperative MRI report. A secondary finding of a posteromedial tibial bone bruise was identified on preoperative MRI in 36 of the 50 patients with ramp lesions in a retrospective MRI review by 2 orthopaedic surgeons.

Conclusion:

Medial meniscal ramp lesions were present in approximately 17% of 301 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction, and less than one-half were diagnosed on the preoperative MRI. A posteromedial tibial bone bruise was found to be a secondary sign of a ramp lesion in 72% of patients. Increased awareness of this potentially combined injury pattern is necessary, and careful intraoperative evaluation is required to identify all meniscal ramp tears.
An Online Program for Caregivers of Persons Living With Dementia: Lessons Learned
Authors: Kovaleva Mariya , Blevins Lindsey , Griffiths Patricia C. , Hepburn Kenneth
Published: May 2017

The population of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers and the need to provide caregiver training will increase in the next several decades. In-person caregiver educational programs are delimited by logistical and resource boundaries that could be overcome with online programs. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the acceptability and ways to improve the content and delivery of an online 7-week psychoeducational pilot program—Tele-Savvy. Thirty-six caregivers who completed the pilot were interviewed about their experience with Tele-Savvy and their suggestions for its improvement. Conventional content analysis allowed for the identification of three themes: barriers and facilitators to establishing rapport with participants and instructors, content enrichment and diversification, and structural refinement. These lessons learned directly from the caregivers provide evidence to guide the refinement of analogous online interventions and highlight the need for their wider availability.
Integrated gasification combined cycle using Egyptian Maghara coal–rice straw feedstock
Authors: Hegazy A , Ghallab AO , Ashour FH
Published: May 2017

Rice straw is an agricultural waste that causes an annoying problem in Egypt if it is not well exploited. This study focuses on using this waste in power generation by co-gasification of Egyptian Maghara coal and rice straw blends using entrained flow gasifier technology. Aspen Plus was used to conduct a parametric study for investigation of the effect of changing the inputs to the gasifier on the produced gas composition. Three different input parameters, influencing the performance of the gasifier, including the percentage of coal to rice straw in the blend, the fraction of added water to the blend, and the mass percentage of oxygen with respect to the mass of the blend fed to the gasifier were analysed. Two alternative power production schemes (with and without carbon capturing) have been investigated. The obtained optimum feed conditions are: 40% coal in the feed blend, 20% water concentration in the feed slurry, and 80% oxygen with respect to the dry feed blend to the gasifier. For (10 0000 kg per hour) of the feed blend, the power generated was 270.1 MW in the case of non-carbon capturing, while in the case of carbon capturing, 263.52 MW was generated. Although it produces less power, applying carbon capturing techniques means handling less flue gas and thus using smaller gas turbines and results in more environmentally friendly emissions.
Anticoagulation and Transfusions Management in Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Assessment of Factors Associated With Transfusion Requirements and Mortality
Authors: Martucci Gennaro , Panarello Giovanna , Occhipinti Giovanna , Ferrazza Veronica , Tuzzolino Fabio , Bellavia Diego , Sanfilippo Filippo , Santonocito Cristina , Bertani Alessandro , Vitulo Patrizio , Pilato Michele , Arcadipane Antonio
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

We describe an approach for anticoagulation and transfusions in veno-venous–extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO), evaluating factors associated with higher transfusion requirements, and their impact on mortality.

Methods:

Observational study on consecutive adults supported with VV-ECMO for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We targeted an activated partial thromboplastin time of 40 to 50 seconds and a hematocrit of 24% to 30%. Univariate and multiple analyses were done to evaluate factors associated with transfusion requirements and the influence of increasing transfusions on mortality during ECMO.

Results:

In a cohort of 82 VV-ECMO patients (PRedicting dEath for SEvere ARDS on VV-ECMO [PRESERVE] score: 4, Interquartile range [IQR]: 3-5, Respiratory Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Survival Prediction [RESP] score: 2, IQR: 2-4), 76 (92.7%) patients received at least 1 unit of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) during the intensive care unit stay related to ECMO (median PRBC/d 156 mL, IQR: 93-218; median ECMO duration 14 days, IQR: 8-22). A higher requirement of PRBC transfusions was associated with pre-ECMO hematocrit, and with the following conditions during ECMO: platelet nadir, antithrombin III (ATIII), and stage 3 of acute kidney injury (all P < .05). Sixty-two (75.6%) patients survived ECMO. Pre-ECMO hospital stay, PRBC transfusion, and septic shock were associated with mortality (all P < .05). The adjusted odds ratio for each 100mL/d increase in PRBC transfusion was 1.9 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-3.2, P = .01); for the development of septic shock it was 15.4 (95% CI: 1.7-136.8, P = .01), and for each day of pre-ECMO stay it was 1.1 (95% CI: 1-1.2, P = .04).

Conclusion:

Implementation of a comprehensive protocol for anticoagulation and transfusions in VV-ECMO for ARDS resulted in a low PRBC requirement, and an ECMO survival comparable to data in the literature. Lower ATIII emerged as a factor associated with increased need for transfusions. Higher PRBC transfusions were associated with ECMO mortality. Further investigations are needed to better understand the right level of anticoagulation in ECMO, and the factors to take into account in order to manage personalized transfusion practice in this select setting.
Evaluation of a Hybrid Training Module for Community Pharmacy Staff Providing Hypertension Medication Therapy Management
Authors: Brown Wendy I. , Cernusca Dan , Roehrich Leneika
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this research study was to evaluate the impact of web-based training on the knowledge and perceived practice of community pharmacy staff engaged in a hypertension medication therapy management program. Following the recommendations from adult learning end experiential learning theoretical frameworks, the proposed training engaged learners in a series of short online educational videos with preknowledge and postknowledge assessment and patient interactions in a clinical setting to reenforce newly learned skills.

Methods:

The participants in this study were from Community pharmacies who actively participate in medication therapy management and disease management services in the 2 largest towns in North Dakota. The preknowledge and postknowledge tests indicated a statistically significant improvement in hypertension management knowledge for the participating pharmacy staff. The qualitative input from the participants fully complemented these findings by showing a strong positive perception on the implemented instructional process.

Results:

Training proved to be both effective and essential for pharmacy staff when initiating clinical services to ensure they have the necessary skills to be able to do their job well, and online training is an easy and efficient way to provide this training.
Preparation and characterization of microcellular injection molded foams from high-performance blends based on PPS-modified PPBESK
Authors: Wen Na , Liu Tao , Xiang Bin , Lei Yajie , Luo Shikai
Published: May 2017

Obtaining foams of poly-containing biphenyl moieties (phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone; PPBESK) by applying the microcellular injection molding method is very difficult because of the high melt viscosity of the materials used. To overcome this limitation, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) was used to improve the rheological properties of PPBESK. PPBESK/PPS blends of different proportions were prepared using the melt mixing method. The rheological behavior, phase behavior, interfacial tension, and mechanical properties of the blends were then investigated. The results clearly indicate that PPS can improve the melt processability of PPBESK. However, due to the strong adhesion between the PPS and PPBESK phases, the introduction of PPS did not cause any loss of the mechanical and thermal properties of PPBESK. Accordingly, microcellular foams from modified PPBESK were prepared by microcellular injection molding with supercritical nitrogen as foaming agent. A closed cell microcellular morphology with an average cell size of 17.7 um and cell density of 109 cells cm−3 was obtained.
Intra-settlement politics and conflict in enumerations
Authors: Rigon Andrea
Published: May 2017

While traditionally an instrument of government power, enumerations are increasingly conducted by urban communities themselves to gain recognition and negotiate with city authorities. Most literature focuses on the productive relationship between communities and government enabled by enumerations, and how enumerations transfer power to communities. However, in highly unequal informal settlements, it is very important to understand who within the community gets such power. Through the ethnographic account of an enumeration promoted by a slum-upgrading project in Nairobi, this paper makes a contribution to the analysis of power in enumerations. The article reveals the strategies of local elites to shape the exercise in their favour. Often, local elites present themselves as representatives of the wider community and draw on this power and legitimacy to advance their specific claims. Therefore, rather than looking only at the relationship between state and community, analyses of enumeration processes should also pay more attention to the complexity of internal communities’ dynamics and conflicting interests, and how these play out in the relationships with the state.