bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative complex permittivity and its dependence on frequency
Authors: Giannoukos Georgios , Min Mart , Rang Toomas
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to give a brief overview of dielectric properties, relative complex permittivity and its dependence on frequency. The significance of different approaches to complex permittivity is also discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The different mechanisms of polarization are then presented. Dielectric measurements are given, and an RC parallel-equivalent circuit is used to simulate a parallel plate capacitor, and the way in which the impedance of the circuits is affected by frequency is illustrated in their respective diagrams. The way in which dielectric properties change with time is also discussed.

Findings

The goal of this paper is to give an overview of the characteristics of the dielectrics and how frequency affects the relative complex permittivity and to present different approaches to and equations for the relative complex permittivity, such as that of Debye, Cole–Cole, Cole–Davidson and Havriliak–Negami. In addition, three mechanisms of polarization, namely, electronic, atomic and bipolar, are presented. The most common dielectric characterization device, a capacitor with parallel plates between which the dielectric material under study is located, is also discussed. Ohmic and dielectric losses of a non-ideal capacitor are accounted for. Furthermore, this paper studies the equivalent circuits of a non-ideal parallel plate capacitor, those being a resistor and an ideal capacitor connected either in series or in parallel.

Originality/value

Finally, dielectric responses to both time and to stepwise excitation are given.
Finite element analysis of nanosecond pulsed laser ablation of various materials
Authors: Ren Jifeng , Ahmed Rajib , Butt Haider
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse nanosecond pulsed laser ablation on both metallic materials and non-metallic materials; a comparison between metallic materials and non-metallic materials has also been included.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, FEM method has been used to calculate the result by means of the finite element method. Furthermore, all the analyses are based on thermal theories.

Findings

The paper presents a comparison of metallic and non-metallic materials. Besides, the effect of how laser parameter changes would influence the ablation depth has also been assessed.

Research limitations/implications

All studies in this paper are based on classical thermal theories. Thermal theories are not applicable some times.

Originality/value

With the results of this paper, suggestions are made so that experiments and manufactures could be optimised and improved.
Successful treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis patients with botulinum toxin B injection: Assessment of peripheral vascular disorder by angiography and dermoscopic image of nail fold capillary
Authors: Motegi Sei‐ichiro , Sekiguchi Akiko , Saito Shintaro , Ishibuchi Hirohisa , Kishi Chikako , Yasuda Masahito , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: November 2017

We recently identified the efficacy and safety of a botulinum toxin (BTX)‐A/B in Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) and digital ulcers (DU) in Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Detailed assessments of peripheral vascular disorder using angiography and dermoscopic images of nail fold capillaries have not been performed previously. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of BTX‐B on SSc‐associated peripheral vascular disorder. Two SSc patients who suffered with RP and DU were treated with a BTX‐B injection, and thereafter the symptoms of RP were improved and DU healed in both patients. Furthermore, angiography showed an increased blood flow to the palm and fingers, and dermoscopic images of nail fold capillary changes showed improvement. These results suggest that a BTX‐B injection may increase peripheral blood flow and improve RP and DU in SSc patients.
Explaining right‐wing terrorism and violence in Western Europe: Grievances, opportunities and polarisation
Authors: RAVNDAL JACOB AASLAND
Published: November 2017

What explains cross‐national variation of right‐wing terrorism and violence (RTV)? This question remains largely unanswered in existing research on the extreme right because (1) events data suitable for cross‐national comparisons have been lacking, and (2) existing analyses fail to capture RTV's causal complexity, which involve multiple causal paths (equifinality) comprising causal conditions that become sufficient for the outcome only in combination (conjunctural causation). To help fill these gaps, this article uses new events data in a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) research design, aiming to explain variation in the extent of RTV in 18 West European countries between 1990 and 2015. In doing so, the article identifies two ‘causal recipes’ that consistently distinguish countries with extensive RTV experience from those with low or moderate RTV experience. The first (North European) recipe involves the combination of high immigration, low electoral support for anti‐immigration (radical right) parties, and extensive public repression of radical right actors and opinions. The second (South European) recipe involves the combination of socioeconomic hardship, authoritarian legacies, and extensive left‐wing terrorism and militancy. Notably, both recipes contain elements of ‘grievances’ and ‘opportunities’, suggesting that these two theories, which are conventionally seen as contrasting, may be more fruitfully seen as complementary. Furthermore, a highly polarised conflict between far right activists and their enemies represents a third necessary condition for extensive RTV to occur. The article concludes by highlighting the paradox that countermeasures intended to constrain radical right politics appear to fuel extreme right violence, while countermeasures that may constrain extreme right violence would imply an advancement of radical right politics.
Green Buildings in Commercial Mortgage‐Backed Securities: The Effects of LEED and Energy Star Certification on Default Risk and Loan Terms
Authors: An Xudong , Pivo Gary
Published: November 2017

We study the impact of green building on loans in the CMBS market. A hazard model shows green buildings carry 34% less default risk, all else equal. A matched‐sample analysis gives similar results. We attribute the effect to a loan‐to‐value channel, where risk is lowered by a green price premium. The benefit comes at least partly from the level of green achievement, not only the label itself. Loans on buildings that were green at loan origination have slightly better terms than loans on nongreen buildings. That difference is growing over time, but the effect is economically small compared to default risk.
An Unusual Cause of Headache and Sudden Death of a Young Sailor—Postmortem Computed Tomography and Histological Findings of a Fatal Retroperitoneal Malignant Mixed Germ Cell Tumor
Authors: Lee Belinda , Chan Michelle , Goh Ronald
Published: November 2017

A 26‐year‐old Caucasian sailor, with no past medical history aside from headache for the last 1 week, was found dead in his cabin. The body was stored in a refrigerator on board and disembarked for autopsy 3 days later. Autopsy showed a large, nodular, necrotic and hemorrhagic retroperitoneal mass, and smaller hemorrhagic nodules in the brain, lungs, liver, and left kidney, with the brain being markedly edematous. Both testes were descended and normal. Histologically, the retroperitoneal mass showed a malignant mixed germ cell tumor comprising choriocarcinoma, embryonal carcinoma, and teratoma components. Retroperitoneal extragonadal germ cell tumors are uncommon, and this case of a young male who presented with headache and sudden death due to metastases is extremely rare.
Past‐year Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Opioid Prescriptions and Self‐reported Opioid Use in an Emergency Department Population With Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Hawk Kathryn , D'Onofrio Gail , Fiellin David A. , Chawarski Marek C. , O'Connor Patrick G. , Owens Patricia H. , Pantalon Michael V. , Bernstein Steven L.
Published: November 2017

Background

Despite increasing reliance on prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) as a response to the opioid epidemic, the relationship between aberrant drug‐related behaviors captured by the PDMP and opioid use disorder is incompletely understood. How PDMP data should guide emergency department (ED) assessment has not been studied.

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate a relationship between PDMP opioid prescription records and self‐reported nonmedical opioid use of prescription opioids in a cohort of opioid‐dependent ED patients enrolled in a treatment trial.

Methods

PDMP opioid prescription records during 1 year prior to study enrollment on 329 adults meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV criteria for opioid dependence entering a randomized clinical trial in a large, urban ED were cross‐tabulated with data on 30‐day nonmedical prescription opioid use self‐report. The association among these two types of data was assessed by the Goodman and Kruskal's gamma; a logistic regression was used to explore characteristics of participants who had PDMP record of opioid prescriptions.

Results

During 1 year prior to study enrollment, 118 of 329 (36%) patients had at least one opioid prescription (range = 1–51) in our states’ PDMP. Patients who reported ≥15 of 30 days of nonmedical prescription opioid use were more likely to have at least four PDMP opioid prescriptions (20/38; 53%) than patients reporting 1 to 14 days (14/38, 37%) or zero days of nonmedical prescription opioid use (4/38, 11%; p = 0.002). Female sex and having health insurance were significantly more represented in the PDMP (p < 0.05 for both).

Conclusion

PDMPs may be helpful in identifying patients with certain aberrant drug‐related behavior, but are unable to detect many patients with opioid use disorder. The majority of ED patients with opioid use disorder were not captured by the PDMP, highlighting the importance of using additional methods such as screening and clinical history to identify opioid use disorders in ED patients and the limitations of PDMPs to detect opioid use disorders.
Suspended animation: the past, present and future of major cardiothoracic trauma
Authors: Mohiyaddin Syed , Nanjaiah Prakash , Saad Ahmed O. , Acharya Metesh N. , Khan Tanveer A. , Davies Rhodri H. , Ashraf Saeed
Published: November 2017

About 50% of the trauma victims die at the scene mostly because of exsanguinating haemorrhage. Most trials of resuscitation fail in face of the ongoing bleeding. Ongoing research/studies to save these victims by inducing rapid hypothermia using cardiopulmonary bypass as an emergency initial measure along with delayed resuscitation show improved outcomes. A comprehensive review of this research and analysis of studies showed that rapid induction of hypothermia within 5 min of cardiac arrest is associated with better survival and improved neurological outcome. This led us to conclude that suspended animation is a lifesaving modality for the treatment of trauma victims, otherwise hurtling towards certain death. This should be integrated into regular clinical practice. The US Food and Drug Administration has given its approval for clinical trials on such an intervention.
Outgroup members’ internal criticism promotes intergroup openness: The role of perceived risk
Authors: McDonald Melissa , Brindley Samantha , Halperin Eran , Saguy Tamar
Published: November 2017

Research suggests that hearing an outgroup member voice internal criticism increases individuals’ openness to the outgroup's perspective. We replicate and extend these findings in the context of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Israeli participants exposed to a Palestinian official voicing internal criticism reported more openness to the Palestinian narrative of the conflict, an effect that was mediated by an increase in participants’ perception that Palestinians are open‐minded and a subsequent increase in their hope for more positive relations between the two groups. In our extension of these findings, we examined a complementary mechanism contributing to the effectiveness of the criticism manipulation, specifically the extent to which participants perceive that the Palestinian official took a risk voicing criticism of Palestinians. Positive messages from a hostile outgroup may be received with suspicion, but if they are articulated under great risk to the speaker, greater credibility may be granted. Across two studies, we demonstrate that the criticism conveys risk to the speaker and that this risk is predictive of the perceived credibility of the speaker, and participants’ subsequent openness to the outgroup's perspective.
Contrasting patterns of insect herbivory and predation pressure across a tropical rainfall gradient
Authors: Weissflog Anita , Markesteijn Lars , Lewis Owen T. , Comita Liza S. , Engelbrecht Bettina M.J.
Published: November 2017

One explanation for the extraordinarily high tree diversity of tropical lowland forests is that it is maintained by specialized natural enemies such as insect herbivores, which cause distance and density dependent mortality. Insect herbivory could also explain the positive correlation between tree species richness and rainfall if herbivory increases with rainfall, is higher on locally abundant versus rare species, and is not limited by predation pressure at wet sites. To test these predictions, insect herbivory and predation pressure on insect herbivores were quantified across a Neotropical rainfall and tree species richness gradient, and herbivory was investigated in relation to local tree abundances. Insect herbivory on leaves (folivory) decreased strongly and significantly with rainfall, while predation pressure was significantly higher at the wetter site. Herbivores were more likely to attack abundant tree species, but herbivore damage levels were not related to tree species abundance. Insect folivores might contribute to local tree species coexistence in our system, but seem unlikely to drive the positive correlation between tree species richness and rainfall. The unexpected and contrasting patterns of herbivory and predation we observed support the need for a multi‐trophic perspective to understand fully the processes contributing to diversity and ecosystem functioning.
Characterization of the interaction forces in a drug carrier complex of doxorubicin with a drug‐binding peptide
Authors: Gocheva Gergana , Ilieva Nina , Peneva Kalina , Ivanova Anela
Published: November 2017

Polypeptide‐based materials are used as building blocks for drug delivery systems aimed at toxicity decrease in chemotherapeutics. A molecular‐level approach is adopted for investigating the non‐covalent interactions between doxorubicin and a recently synthesized drug‐binging peptide as a key part of a system for delivery to neoplastic cells. Molecular dynamics simulations in aqueous solution at room and body temperature are applied to investigate the structure and the binding modes within the drug–peptide complex. The tryptophans are outlined as the main chemotherapeutic adsorption sites, and the importance of their placement in the peptide sequence is highlighted. The drug–peptide binging energy is evaluated by density functional theory calculations. Principal component analysis reveals comparable importance of several types of interaction for the binding strength. π‐Stacking is dominant, but other factors are also significant: intercalation, peptide backbone stacking, electrostatics, dispersion, and solvation. Intra‐ and intermolecular H‐bonding also stabilizes the complexes. The influence of solvent molecules on the binding energy is mild. The obtained data characterize the drug‐to‐peptide attachment as a mainly attractive collective process with interactions spanning a broad range of values. These results explain with atomistic detail the experimentally registered doxorubicin‐binging ability of the peptide and outline the complex as a prospective carrying unit that can be employed in design of drug delivery systems.
General illness and psychological factors in patients with chronic nasal symptoms
Authors: Kara N. , Yao A. C. , Newton J. , Deary V. , O'Hara J. , Wilson J. A.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Only a minority of patients referred to specialists with sinonasal symptoms have clear evidence of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This study aims to estimate the prevalence of and associations between (i) general illness factors (fatigue, autonomic dysfunction) and (ii) psychological factors (anxiety, depression, somatisation, personality traits) in patients presenting with sinonasal symptoms.

Design

The following validated questionnaires were administered to patients: the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 (SNOT‐22) identifying symptom burden, Composite Autonomic Symptom Score‐31 (COMPASS‐31) measuring autonomic function, Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire‐15 (PHQ‐15) addressing somatisation symptoms, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the International Personality Item Pool‐50 (IPIP‐50). Comparisons were made with normative and general population data, and relationships were analysed using nonparametric correlation.

Setting

Secondary care ENT outpatients.

Participants

Adults referred with chronic sinonasal symptoms.

Main outcome measures

SNOT‐22, COMPASS‐31, Chalder, PHQ‐15, HADS, and IPIP‐50 questionnaire scores.

Results

Sixty‐one patients were included. There was a high prevalence of all general and psychological factors assessed compared with controls. Total SNOT‐22 scores showed significant correlation with Chalder fatigue scores, total autonomic dysfunction score, anxiety, depression, somatisation tendencies and the emotionally unstable personality trait. Emotional instability and psychological dysfunction correlated significantly with sleep and psychological subscales of SNOT‐22 but not the rhinological or ear/facial subscales.

Conclusion

Patients with sinonasal symptoms demonstrate high prevalence and complex associations of general illness factors, psychological distress and certain personality traits. The SNOT‐22 is a valuable tool, but its utility is limited by correlations with these confounding factors (eg psychological factors) that may exaggerate the total score. The use of the SNOT‐22 component subscales is likely to provide more clinically meaningful and discriminant information.
Adjuvant radiotherapy in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Caspers C.J.I. , Dronkers E.A.C. , Monserez D. , Wieringa M.H. , Baatenburg de Jong R.J. , Hardillo J.A.U.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Evaluation of outcome after curative treatment for sinonasal mucosal melanoma focused on the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy on recurrence and survival.

Design

Retrospective chart analysis.

Setting

Tertiary referral hospital.

Participants

Fifty‐one patients with primary sinonasal mucosal melanoma who underwent surgical resection with curative intention between 1980 and 2016 at Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam.

Main outcome measures

Patients were categorised into 2 groups: surgery alone and surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy. Log‐rank test was used to compare rates of recurrence and survival between treatment groups. Predictors for treatment modality, recurrence and survival were assessed with multivariate statistical analysis.

Results

Of all patients, 23.5% developed local recurrence and 47.1% developed distant metastasis. Estimated 5‐year disease‐free survival was 25.2%, and 5‐year overall survival (OS) was 38.1%. Forty‐three patients (84.3%) were treated with post‐operative radiotherapy. Patients who underwent surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy presented more often with high tumour stage, tumour involving multiple sites and positive margins. Post‐operative radiotherapy seemed to be associated with better local control (P = .549). No effect was found on occurrence of distant metastasis and OS. Positive margin status was an independent negative predictor for distant metastasis‐free survival and overall survival.

Conclusions

Our treatment outcomes are consistent with literature. Post‐operative radiotherapy seems to be associated with improved local control despite advanced disease and positive margin status in this treatment group.
An assessment of an Australasian pathway for the introduction of transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME)
Authors: Abbott S. C. , Stevenson A. R. L. , Bell S. W. , Clark D. , Merrie A. , Hayes J. , Ganesh S. , Heriot A. G. , Warrier S. K.
Published: November 2017

Aim

To evaluate the use of a pathway for the introduction of transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) into Australia and New Zealand.

Method

A pathway for surgeons with an appropriate level of specialist training and baseline skill set was initiated amongst colorectal surgeons; it includes an intensive course, a series of proctored cases and ongoing contribution to audit. Data were collected for patients who had taTME, for benign and malignant conditions, undertaken by the initial adopters of the technique.

Results

A total of 133 taTME procedures were performed following the introduction of a training pathway in March 2015. The indication was rectal cancer in 84% of cases. There was one technique‐specific visceral injury, which occurred prior to that surgeon completing the pathway. There were no cases of postoperative mortality; morbidity occurred in 27.1%. The distal resection margin was clear in all cases of rectal cancer, and the circumferential resection margin was positive in two cases. An intact or nearly intact total mesorectal excision was obtained in more than 98% of cases.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the safe and controlled introduction of a new surgical technique in a defined surgeon population with the use of a pathway for training. The authors recommend a similar pathway to facilitate the introduction of taTME to colorectal surgical practice.
Housing privatization in Romania
Authors: Buckley Robert , Mathema Ashna
Published: November 2017

Over the past three decades, Romanian housing rights changed from a strictly managed public stock to one governed by individual decision‐making. And while it is typical that widespread private ownership provides a basis for a well‐functioning housing market, in Romania this has not been the case. Indeed, rather than creating a market that spontaneously allocates resources efficiently, housing privatization in Romania has created exclusion rights, thus creating an Anti‐commons problem. This problem can have effects similar to those of the tragedy of the Commons in which those who share a common good overuse it. In the Anti‐commons, in contrast, if too many owners have the right to exclude others from use of a resource, the resource is underused. In both cases, the rights allocation wastes resources.
Pilot study of cognitive remediation and motivational interviewing in youth at risk of serious mental illness
Authors: Piskulic Danijela , Romanowska Sylvia , Addington Jean
Published: November 2017

Aim

The aim of this pilot project was to determine the recruitment feasibility for a computerized cognitive remediation treatment (CRT) for youth at‐risk of serious mental illness (SMI), and treatment adherence following an adjunct treatment of motivational interviewing (MI).

Methods

Twelve youth at‐risk of SMI were randomized to receive either CRT or CRT plus MI. CRT was conducted over 10 wk during which time 5 MI sessions were available for the CRT + MI group.

Results

The recruitment rate was 55%. The attrition rate from the study was 25% and on average participants completed 33% of the CRT sessions, with no group differences in the number of CRT sessions completed.

Conclusions

Treatment adherence was low. Participants described the CRT as easy and unchallenging. Future recommendations include engaging youth at‐risk into CRT programs based on cognitive deficits, measuring intervention satisfaction and offering access to supportive therapies for concerns other than cognition.
The role of soil depth in the evaluation of management‐induced effects on soil organic matter
Authors: Knebl L. , Leithold G. , Schulz F. , Brock C.
Published: November 2017

The aim of the current survey was to determine the relevance of the subsoil in the assessment of management effects on soil organic matter (SOM) in arable farming. Data in this survey were provided by the organic arable long‐term field experiment Gladbacherhof (OAFEG). Three different ‘farming types’ were compared: mixed (MF), stockless with rotational ley (SFL) and stockless with cash crops (SFC). Each type had four different tillage treatments: full inversion (FIT), two‐layer plough (TLP), reduced inversion (RIT) and non‐inversion (NIT). The different mean masses of soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil total nitrogen (STN) at 0–30‐, 30–60‐, 60–90‐ and 0–90‐cm soil depths after three crop rotation cycles (17‐year observation period) were evaluated and considered as an indicator of SOM. ‘Farming types’ differ in their effect on SOC and STN mass of the topsoil layer (0–30 cm) in the order MF > SFL > SFC (P < 0.01). For the 0–90‐cm soil depth there were no differences between the treatments. Treatments with different tillage intensity did not show any effect on the contents of SOC or STN within the 0–30‐cm soil depth. However, within the 30–60‐cm depth full‐inversion tillage (FIT) was associated with larger amounts of SOC and STN than the reduced tillage intensity treatments TLP, RIT and NIT (P < 0.01). This situation even resulted in significantly larger SOC and STN masses under FIT (P < 0.05) over the whole soil profile under study (0–90 cm). Our results suggest that sampling depth should be extended to include the effects on the upper subsoil in assessment of the effects of arable management on soil organic matter.

Highlights

Role of subsoil in the assessment of management effects on soil organic matter in arable farming is rarely accounted for.

We investigated SOC and STN contents below 0–30‐cm depth in a long‐term field experiment.

Consideration of the subsoil had a marked effect on the differentiation of the treatments.

Sampling depth should be extended to include effects of management on the upper subsoil in the assessment of soil organic matter.
Physical effects of habitat‐forming species override latitudinal trends in temperature
Authors: Jurgens L. J. , Gaylord B.
Published: November 2017

Latitudinal and elevational temperature gradients (LTG and ETG) play central roles in biogeographical theory, underpinning predictions of large‐scale patterns in organismal thermal stress, species' ranges and distributional responses to climate change. Yet an enormous fraction of Earth's taxa live exclusively in habitats where foundation species modify temperatures. We examine little‐explored implications of this widespread trend using a classic model system for understanding heat stresses – rocky intertidal shores. Through integrated field measurements and laboratory trials, we demonstrate that thermal buffering by centimetre‐thick mussel and seaweed beds eliminates differences in stress‐inducing high temperatures and associated mortality risk that would otherwise arise over 14° of latitude and ~ 1 m of shore elevation. These results reveal the extent to which physical effects of habitat‐formers can overwhelm broad‐scale thermal trends, suggesting a need to re‐evaluate climate change predictions for many species. Notably, inhabitant populations may exhibit deceptive resilience to warming until refuge‐forming taxa become imperiled.
There are two very different accruals anomalies
Authors: Detzel Andrew , Schaberl Philipp , Strauss Jack
Published: November 2017

We document that several well‐known asset‐pricing implications of accruals differ for investment and non‐investment‐related components. Exposure to an investment‐accruals factor explains the cross‐section of returns better than accruals themselves, and sentiment negatively predicts this factor's returns. The opposite results hold for non‐investment accruals. Cash profitability only subsumes long‐term non‐investment accruals in the cross‐section of returns and economy‐wide investment accruals negatively predict stock‐market returns while other accruals do not. These results challenge existing accruals‐anomaly theories and resolve mixed evidence by showing the anomaly is two separate phenomena: a risk‐based investment accruals premium and a mispricing of non‐investment accruals.
Phagocyte—extracellular matrix crosstalk empowers tumor development and dissemination
Authors: Varol Chen , Sagi Irit
Published: November 2017

Phagocytes, such as tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs), are abundant in the stroma of experimental and human tumors and are locally educated to mediate important biological functions that profoundly affect tumor initiation, growth, and dissemination. Of considerable importance is the noncellular component of the tumor microenvironment, namely—the extracellular matrix (ECM). This milieu is often overlooked due to its complexity and vast heterogeneity. Biophysical and biomechanical cues provided by the dynamically evolving tumorigenic ECM fundamentally modulate every behavioral facet of the cancer cells and of associated stromal cells. In this review, we discuss the intricate interplay between phagocytes and ECM that are lined up to support tumor progression. TAMs and TANs shape the tumorigenic ECM by providing key matrix‐remodeling enzymes and structural proteins and in turn, the altered tumor ECM modulates their migration and function. A better mechanistic comprehension of this reciprocal dependence has exciting implications for the development of new therapeutic options for cancer.
Misreading Nonmonogamy in Beauvoir's She Came to Stay
Authors: Kean Jessica
Published: November 2017

Simone de Beauvoir's novel She Came to Stay follows Françoise and her partner Pierre as their intimacy becomes increasingly entangled with the young and tempestuous Xavière. Many readings of the novel explain Françoise's bad feeling and eventual violence as symptoms of sexual jealousy. The book has also been read as a veiled autobiography of Beauvoir and Sartre's similar entanglement with Olga Kosakiewicz, so that, very often, Françoise's jealousy is assumed to stand in for Beauvoir's own. This article is about misreading in two ways. First, I argue that the common view that this is a story in part or in whole about sexual jealousy reflects a radical simplification of the emotional and interpersonal dynamics of the “trio.” Second, I argue that this interpretive simplification is in fact common in mainstream readings of nonmonogamous relationships, where “jealousy” is used to name any and all bad feelings in the vicinity of the nonmonogamous relationship, and where that bad feeling is interpreted as caused by the nonmonogamy itself. To conclude, I suggest that She Came to Stay, and particularly its notorious ending, can be seen as Beauvoir's depiction—and refusal—of the misreadings that constitute the “situation” of nonmonogamy in everyday life.
The Paternalistic Argument against Abortion1
Authors: Mayans Itzel , Vaca Moisés
Published: November 2017

A dominant trend in the philosophical literature on abortion has been concerned with the question of whether the fetus has moral status and how such a status might or might not conflict with women's liberties. However, a new and powerful trend against abortion requires philosophical examination. We refer to this trend as the paternalistic argument (PA). In a nutshell, this argument holds that, insofar as motherhood is a constitutive end of women's well‐being, abortion harms women; thus, abortion is wrong and should be prohibited, restricted, or avoided when possible regardless of the moral status of the fetus. In this article we undertake three tasks. First, we analyze four variations of this reasoning: what we call the Kantian PA, the Aristotelian PA, the Catholic Church PA, and the Psychological PA. Second, we show how some public policies that regulate or prohibit abortion around the world are now in fact following paternalistic justifications and imposing distinctive paternalistic restrictions (hard, soft, or libertarian); we refer to these policies as “the new abortion laws.” Finally, we argue that both the four paternalistic arguments presented and the new abortion laws are at times ill‐intentioned, comprehensive in nature and thus unsuited for guiding public policy, empirically flawed, or else unjustified.
Reduced contamination and infection via inhibition of adhesion of foodborne bacteria to abiotic polystyrene and biotic amoeba surfaces
Authors: Klančnik Anja , Gobin Ivana , Vučković Darinka , Smole Možina Sonja , Abram Maja , Jeršek Barbara
Published: November 2017

Adhesion of foodborne pathogens to materials of industrial surfaces is an important step in their transmission through the food chain. Adhesion is also a prerequisite for bacterial colonisation within a host, to enable intracellular invasion. We define a strategy to reduce contamination and infection by Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli using an ethanol extract of Alpinia katsumadai seeds (AlpE) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) as anti‐adhesive agents. We show for the first time that AlpE and EGCG reduce adhesion of individual cultures to polystyrene (AlpE, up to 10.6%; EGCG, up to 39.7%) and to the amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii (AlpE, up to 52.6%; EGCG, up to 53.4%). The combination of AlpE/EGCG significantly reduced C. jejuni adherence to the abiotic (45.5%) and biotic (52.2%) surfaces. Thus, using natural agents from plants at low doses, we can potentially reduce the primary source of food contamination and a frequent source of infections.
Effect of seaweed flakes addition on the development of bioactivities in functional Camembert‐type cheese
Authors: Hell Attara , Labrie Steve , Beaulieu Lucie
Published: November 2017

The effect of adding Palmaria palmata or Saccharina longicruris to Camembert‐type cheese on both the antioxidant capacity (ORAC) and Angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activity has been studied with the aim of developing a functional food. The nutritional composition showed that P. palmata had the highest total protein and carbohydrate contents while S. longicruris demonstrated the highest total fibre and minerals contents. The bioactivities determined in the S. longicruris soluble extract were the highest. Three cheese model curds were studied: cheese control (CC), 2% of P. palmata (C2PP) and 2% of S. longicruris (C2SL). During ripening (20 days), the curd pH of all treatments was significantly similar, as their ORAC values, starting at 0 and reaching 41.28 mmol TE g−1. The ACE‐inhibitory activity of the three treatments was significantly similar, at day 0 (13.20%) and day 20 (58.27%). The feasibility of including these two seaweeds into Camembert‐type cheeses was validated through the adequate development of bioactivities during ripening supporting promising food applications.
Effects of tadalafil on storage and voiding function in patients with male lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A urodynamic‐based study
Authors: Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Majima Tsuyoshi , Matsuo Kazuna , Funahashi Yasuhito , Kato Masashi , Yamamoto Tokunori , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate the effects of tadalafil on storage and voiding function in treatment‐naïve patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia, based on a urodynamic study.

Methods

This was an open‐labeled, single‐center, prospective study. A total of 80 untreated outpatients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia received tadalafil 5 mg/day for 12 weeks. Subjective symptoms and objective findings on voiding and storage function obtained through urodynamic studies, including cystometry and pressure flow study, were evaluated before and after treatment.

Results

A total of 71 patients with a mean age of 70.2 years and a mean prostate volume of 45.6 mL were included in the analysis. In the International Prostate Symptom Score and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, mean total scores significantly improved from 18.2 to 13.4 (P < 0.001) and 6.5 to 4.7 (P < 0.001), respectively, after treatment. Mean maximum bladder capacity significantly increased by approximately 35 mL (P < 0.001). Detrusor overactivity disappeared in 15 (39.5%) of 38 patients with detrusor overactivity at baseline (P < 0.001). Mean maximum flow rate on pressure flow study significantly increased from 7.1 to 9.1 mL/s (P < 0.001) and mean bladder outlet obstruction index significantly decreased from 61.3 to 47.1 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Treatment with tadalafil 5 mg once daily effectively relieves lower urinary tract symptoms based on objective improvement of storage and voiding function, such as detrusor overactivity and bladder outlet obstruction, in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Identification and characterization of a histamine‐binding lipocalin‐like molecule from the relapsing fever tick Ornithodoros turicata
Authors: Neelakanta G. , Sultana H. , Sonenshine D. E. , Andersen J. F.
Published: November 2017

Lipocalins are low molecular weight membrane transporters that are abundantly expressed in the salivary glands and other tissues of ticks. In this study, we identified a lipocalin‐like molecule, designated as otlip, from the soft ticks Ornithodoros turicata, the vector for the relapsing fever causing spirochete Borrelia turicatae. We noted that the expression of otlip was developmentally regulated, with adult ticks expressing significantly higher levels in comparison to the larvae or nymphal ticks. Expression of otlip was evident in both fed and unfed O. turicata ticks, with significantly increased expression in the salivary glands in comparison to the midgut or ovary tissues. High conservation of the biogenic amine‐binding motif was evident in the deduced primary amino acid sequence of Otlip. Protein modelling of Otlip revealed conservation of most of the residues involved in binding histamine or serotonin ligand. In vitro assays demonstrated binding of recombinant Otlip with histamine. Furthermore, prediction of post‐translational modifications revealed that Otlip contained phosphorylation and myristoylation sites. Taken together, our study not only provides evidence for the presence of a lipocalin‐like molecule in O. turicata ticks but also suggests a role for this molecule in the salivary glands of this medically important vector.
X‐ray absorption spectroscopy study of synthetic cobalt blue pigments similar to Kangxi blue and white porcelain
Authors: Luo Mi , Zhang Maolin , Yan Wensheng , Wang Lihua , Jiang Zheng
Published: November 2017

A series of cobalt blue pigments, which were synthesized based on the chemical compositions of the blue pigments in Kangxi blue and white porcelain, were investigated by Co, Mn, and Fe K‐edge and L2,3‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy to determine the oxidation states and species of the elements and to discern their impact on the blue color. The results reveal that Co is bivalent and mainly located at tetrahedral sites, which is the main parameter controlling the blue color. Mn is mainly present as Mn2+, or CoxZn1‐xAl2O4 and Fe is mainly present as Fe3+. In particular, Fe3+ substitutes the Al in CoAl2O4 and occupies octahedral sites with a high Mn content. All the synthetic cobalt blue pigments can form a solid solution with various end‐members or an intermediate solution spinel. The spectroscopic determination of the oxidation states and speciation of Co, Mn, and Fe furthers understanding of the coloration of blue pigments in blue and white porcelain.
The fate of iron during the alkali‐activation of synthetic (CaO‐)FeOx‐SiO2 slags: An Fe K‐edge XANES study
Authors: Simon Sebastian , Gluth Gregor J. G. , Peys Arne , Onisei Silviana , Banerjee Dipanjan , Pontikes Yiannis
Published: November 2017

Slags from the nonferrous metals industry have great potential to be used as feedstocks for the production of alkali‐activated materials. Until now, however, only very limited information has been available about the structural characteristics of these materials. In the work presented herein, synthetic slags in the CaO–FeOx–SiO2 system, representing typical compositions of Fe‐rich slags, and inorganic polymers (IPs) produced from the synthetic slags by activation with alkali silicate solutions have been studied by means of X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy at the Fe K‐edge. The iron in the slags was largely Fe2+, with an average coordination number of approximately 5 for the iron in the amorphous fraction. The increase in average oxidation number after alkali‐activation was conceptualized as the consequence of slag dissolution and IP precipitation, and employed to calculate the degrees of reaction of the slags. The degree of reaction of the slags increased with increasing amorphous fraction. The iron in the IPs had an average coordination number of approximately 5; thus, IPs produced from the Fe‐rich slags studied here are not Fe‐analogs of aluminosilicate geopolymers, but differ significantly in terms of structure from the latter.
Down‐regulating Myoferlin inhibits the vasculogenic mimicry of melanoma via decreasing MMP‐2 and inducing mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition
Authors: Zhang Wenxue , Zhou Ping , Meng Ai , Zhang Rongxin , Zhou Yan
Published: November 2017

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) constitutes a novel approach for tumour blood supply and contributes to tumour metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with melanoma. Myoferlin (MYOF), a type II membrane protein involved in membrane regeneration and repair, is elevated in several malignant tumours, especially in advanced melanomas. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of MYOF in the regulation of VM. VM structures were found in 14 of 52 tested melanoma samples, and high MYOF expression correlated with VM structures. According to Kaplan–Meier survival curves, VM channels and elevated MYOF expression both correlated with poor prognosis in melanoma patients. Down‐regulation of MYOF by siRNA severely impaired the capability of A375 cells to form VM structures in vitro. Further studies demonstrated MYOF knockdown inhibited cell migration and invasion, which is required for VM formation, via decreasing MMP‐2 expression as evidenced by Western blotting, RT‐RCP and ELISA results. SB‐3CT, a specific inhibitor of MMP‐2, showed similar inhibiting effects with siMYOF, further supporting that MYOF down‐regulation inhibits MMP‐2 expression to affect VM formation. Moreover, MYOF knockdown suppress VM formation by A375 cells by inducing mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition (MET). After down‐regulating MYOF, focal adhesions were enlarged and A375 cells developed into a clear epithelial morphology. Such cells acquired the expression of E‐cadherin at adherens junctions along with a loss of mesenchymal markers, such as Vimentin and Twist1. In conclusion, MYOF plays an important role in VM and knockdown of MYOF suppresses VM formation via decreasing MMP‐2 and inducing MET in A375 melanoma cells.
Levels of serum retinol‐binding protein 4 before and after non‐surgical periodontal treatment in lean and obese subjects: An interventional study
Authors: Martinez‐Herrera Mayte , Silvestre Francisco Javier , Silvestre‐Rangil Javier , López‐Domènech Sandra , Bañuls Celia , Rocha Milagros
Published: November 2017

Aim

We aimed to evaluate serum RBP4 levels before and after periodontal therapy in lean and obese subjects with chronic periodontitis (CP) in order to determine its possible association with periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

This is an interventional study for which a total of 112 lean and 119 obese subjects were recruited. Patients with CP were evaluated before and after three months of non‐surgical periodontal treatment. Periodontal, anthropometric, biochemical parameters and serum levels of TNF‐α, IL‐6, hs‐CRP and RBP4 were assessed.

Results

Serum RBP4 levels were associated with an increased probability of periodontitis (OR = 1.60; 95% CI: 1.02‐2.50), showing patients with CP to have higher RBP4 levels than those without CP in both lean and obese populations (3.35 vs 3.06 and 3.74 vs 3.21, respectively). Following periodontal treatment, RBP4 and TNF‐α decreased, and all periodontal parameters improved to the same extent in both groups, except for number of teeth with probing depth (PD) ≥4 mm, which improved to a less extent in obese than in lean subjects. In the multivariable regression model, the number of teeth with PD ≥4 mm was independently associated with RBP4 (β = 0.192).

Conclusion

RBP4 was associated with chronic periodontitis before and after non‐surgical periodontal treatment.
Patients with Spitz naevi in the Greek population: Epidemiologic, Clinical and Histopathological characteristics
Authors: Soura E. , Dimitrakopoulou A. , Christofidou E. , Katoulis A. , Antoniou C. , Stratigos A.
Published: November 2017

Background

Spitz naevi may present with clinical and histopathological atypical features that do not affect patient prognosis but may become worrisome for patients ≥40 years presenting with newly appearing SN.

Objective

Patient characteristics and sun behaviour patterns were investigated in correlation with age. SN characteristics and histopathological attributes were also investigated in correlation with age.

Methods

Patients with histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of SN were invited for a clinical examination. Data such as skin type, number of banal/atypical naevi, sun exposure patterns and personal/family history were collected. Histopathology preparations were re‐examined by two different histopathologists, and characteristics were collected based on a prespecified checklist. Patients were afterwards followed up every 6 months.

Results

A total of 110 patients with SN were identified and assigned to three age groups. The most common area of presentation was the trunk, for the ≥40 years age group, and the limbs for the other age groups. Patients ≥40 years had a higher possibility of presenting with a naevus count ≥50 and at least one atypical naevus compared to the other age groups. Patients ≥40 years presented more commonly with a history of painful sunburn (100%) before the appearance of the SN, used less sunscreen, had higher sun exposure times and more clinical signs of solar skin damage compared to the other age groups. Finally, patients ≥40 years presented more commonly with signs of histopathological atypia such as the presence of mitoses, cellular atypia and prominent nucleolus.

Conclusion

Patients ≥40 were more likely to report a history of longer sun exposure times, of never using a sunscreen and of having a history of painful sunburn. However, the importance of this observation remains to be elucidated as these patients also presented more commonly with lesions located on non‐sun‐exposed areas (trunk) and higher naevus/atypical naevus counts.