bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antigiardial Effect of Kramecyne in Experimental Giardiasis
Authors: Eligio-García Leticia , Pontifez-Pablo Elida , Pérez-Gutiérrez Salúd , Jiménez-Cardoso Enedina
Published: December 2017

A variety of drugs are used in giardiasis treatment with different levels of efficiency, presence of side effects, and even formation of resistant strains, so that it is important to search new only‐one‐dose treatments with high efficiency and less side effects. Kramecyne, an anti‐inflammatory compound isolated from methanolic extract of Krameria cytisoides, does not present toxicity, even at doses of 5,000 mg/kg. The objective was to determine the antigiardial effect of kramecyne over Giardia intestinalis in vitro and in vivo and analyze the expression of genes ERK1, ERK2, and AK on kramecyne treated trophozoites by Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). The median lethal dose (LD50) was 40 μg/mL and no morphological changes were observed by staining with blue trypan and light microscopy; experimental gerbil infection was eliminated with 320 μg/Kg of weight. After treatment there were no differences between intestines from treated and untreated gerbils. Kramecyne did not have significant effect over ERK1 and AK, but there are differences in ERK2 expression (p = 0.04). Results show antigiardial activity of kramecyne; however the mode of action is still unclear and the evaluation of ultrastructural damage and expressed proteins is an alternative of study to understand the action mechanism.
Dexmedetomidine to Help Nerve Regeneration in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Injury Model
Authors: Jeong Wook , Kung Hsichiang , Cheng Chia Chi , Lim Changwoo , Jung Min Jung , Lee Jaeho , Kim Doo Sik , Shin Yusom
Published: December 2017

Background. Several studies have shown that dexmedetomidine (DXM), a selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist, also has neuroprotective effects. However, its effect on impaired peripheral nerve regeneration has not been studied. Materials and Methods. Forty-five Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups: group 1 (control SHAM), group 2 (sciatic nerve injury + normal saline), and group 3 (sciatic nerve injury + DXM). The rats of group 3 were subdivided into the following three groups: DXM 0.5, 6, and 20 μg·kg−1 (groups 3A, 3B, and 3C, resp.). The sciatic nerve injury was assessed for nerve regeneration at 2 and 6 weeks. Results. There were no differences between groups 2 and 3 in their sciatic functional index (SFI) values or histological findings at 2 weeks postinjury. However, SFI differences were statistically significant at 6 weeks postinjury in group 3. The gross findings with H&E staining showed that the number of axons was higher in group 3 than in group 2. There was no histological difference according to the DXM concentration. Conclusion. The coincidental functional and histological assessment results of this study suggest that DXM for 6 weeks positively affects damaged peripheral nerves.
Exercise Training under Exposure to Low Levels of Fine Particulate Matter: Effects on Heart Oxidative Stress and Extra‐to‐Intracellular HSP70 Ratio
Authors: Mai Aline Sfalcin , dos Santos Analu Bender , Beber Lílian Corrêa Costa , Basso Renan Daniel Bueno , Sulzbacher Lucas Machado , Goettems-Fiorin Pauline Brendler , Frizzo Matias Nunes , Rhoden Claudia Ramos , Ludwig Mirna Stela , Heck Thiago Gomes
Published: December 2017

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) promotes heart oxidative stress (OS) and evokes anti‐inflammatory responses observed by increased intracellular 70 kDa heat shock proteins (iHSP70). Furthermore, PM2.5 increases the levels of these proteins in extracellular fluids (eHSP70), which have proinflammatory roles. We investigated whether moderate and high intensity training under exposure to low levels of PM2.5 modifies heart OS and the eHSP70 to iHSP70 ratio (H‐index), a biomarker of inflammatory status. Male mice (n = 32), 30 days old, were divided into six groups for 12 weeks: control (CON), moderate (MIT) and high intensity training (HIT), exposure to 5 μg of PM2.5 daily (PM2.5), and moderate and high intensity training exposed to PM2.5 (MIT + PM2.5 and HIT + PM2.5 groups). The CON and PM2.5 groups remained sedentary. The MIT + PM2.5 group showed higher heart lipid peroxidation levels than the MIT and PM2.5 groups. HIT and HIT + PM2.5 showed higher heart lipid peroxidation levels and lower eHSP70 and H‐index levels compared to sedentary animals. No alterations were found in heart antioxidant enzyme activity or iHSP70 levels. Moderate exercise training under exposure to low levels of PM2.5 induces heart OS but does not modify eHSP70 to iHSP70 ratio (H‐index). High intensity exercise training promotes anti‐inflammatory profile despite exposure to low levels of PM2.5.
Analytical Strategies Involved in the Detailed Componential Characterization of Biooil Produced from Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Lu Yao , Li Guo-Sheng , Lu Yong-Chao , Fan Xing , Wei Xian-Yong
Published: December 2017

Elucidation of chemical composition of biooil is essentially important to evaluate the process of lignocellulosic biomass (LCBM) conversion and its upgrading and suggest proper value-added utilization like producing fuel and feedstock for fine chemicals. Although the main components of LCBM are cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin, the chemicals derived from LCBM differ significantly due to the various feedstock and methods used for the decomposition. Biooil, produced from pyrolysis of LCBM, contains hundreds of organic chemicals with various classes. This review covers the methodologies used for the componential analysis of biooil, including pretreatments and instrumental analysis techniques. The use of chromatographic and spectrometric methods was highlighted, covering the conventional techniques such as gas chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry. The combination of preseparation methods and instrumental technologies is a robust pathway for the detailed componential characterization of biooil. The organic species in biooils can be classified into alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, benzene-ring containing hydrocarbons, ethers, alcohols, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, carboxylic acids, and other heteroatomic organic compounds. The recent development of high resolution mass spectrometry and multidimensional hyphenated chromatographic and spectrometric techniques has considerably elucidated the composition of biooils.
Functional Impact of Novel Androgen Receptor Mutations on the Clinical Manifestation of Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome
Authors: Petroli Reginaldo J. , Hiort Olaf , Struve Dagmar , Gesing Julia K. , Soardi Fernanda C. , Spínola-Castro Angela M. , Melo Karla , Prado Arnhold Ivo J. , Maciel-Guerra Andréa T. , Guerra-Junior Gil , Werner Ralf , de Mello Maricilda P.
Published: December 2017

Androgens are responsible for the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics. Dysfunctions in androgen action due to mutations in the androgen receptor gene (AR) can lead to androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) that can be classified as mild (MAIS), partial (PAIS), or complete (CAIS). We have analyzed functional effects of p.Ser760Thr, p.Leu831Phe, p.Ile899Phe, p.Leu769Val, and p.Pro905Arg mutations and the combination p.Gln799Glu + p.Cys807Phe that were identified in patients with PAIS or CAIS. The p.Leu769Val and p.Pro905Arg mutations showed complete disruption of AR action under physiological hormone concentrations; however, they differed in high DHT concentrations especially in the N/C terminal interaction assay. Mutations p.Ser760Thr, p.Leu831Phe, p.Ile899Phe presented transactivation activities higher than 20% of the wild type in physiological hormone concentrations and increased with higher DHT concentrations. However, each one showed a different profile in the N/C interaction assay. When p.Gln799Glu and p.Cys807Phe were analyzed in combination, transactivation activities <10% in physiologic hormone conditions indicated an association with a CAIS phenotype. We conclude that the functional analysis elucidated the role of mutant ARs, giving clues for the molecular mechanisms associated with different clinical AIS manifestations. Differences in hormone-dependent profiles may provide a basis for the response to treatment in each particular case.
Clinical Approaches to Breast Reconstruction: What Is the Appropriate Reconstructive Procedure for My Patient
Authors: Dieterich Max , Dragu Adrian , Stachs Angrit , Stubert Johannes
Published: December 2017

Breast reconstruction after breast cancer is an emotional subject for women. Consequently, the correct timing and surgical procedure for each individual woman are important. In general, heterologous or autologous reconstructive procedures are available, both having advantages and disadvantages. Breast size, patient habitus, and previous surgeries or radiation therapy need to be considered, independent of the chosen procedure. New surgical techniques, refinement of surgical procedures, and the development of supportive materials have increased the general patient collective eligible for breast reconstruction. This review highlights the different approaches to immediate breast reconstruction using autologous or heterologous techniques.
Paracrine Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway by Bone Marrow Stem Cell Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Kidney Injury
Authors: Jiao Xiaoyan , Cai Jieru , Yu Xiaofang , Ding Xiaoqiang
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) involves damage to tubular cells via excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Stem cell-based therapies have shown great promise in AKI treatment. In this study, we aimed to assess the protective effect and mechanism of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-derived conditioned medium (CM) against cisplatin-induced AKI. Methods: In vitro, NRK-52E cells were incubated with cisplatin in the presence or absence of CM, followed by the assessment of cell viability, apoptosis and cell cycle distribution. Then, ICG-001 and IWR-1 were used to inhibit the wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels were evaluated using DCFH-DA and MitoSOX, respectively. In vivo, after cisplatin injection, rats were intravenously injected with CM or BMSCs. Sera and kidney tissues were collected on day 3 after cisplatin injection to evaluate changes in renal function and histology. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were employed to determine the expression of wnt/β-catenin pathway-related genes and proteins. Immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate tubular β-catenin expression in kidney biopsy from AKI patients. Results: CM protected NRK-52E cells from cisplatin-induced injury by restoring the wnt4/β-catenin pathway. In response to ICG-001 and IWR-1, the protective effect of CM was attenuated, characterized by a decrease in cell proliferation and an increase in cell apoptosis and intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels. Knockdown of β-catenin using siRNAs also suppressed the mitochondrial biogenesis regulators PGC-1α, TFAM and NRF-1. In the rat model, CM significantly alleviated renal function and histology associated with tubular injury and upregulated wnt4 and β-catenin. However, the renoprotective effect of CM was blocked by ICG-001, characterized by exacerbated renal function, suppressed PGC-1α expression and increased mitochondrial ROS. Clinical data showed that the tubular β-catenin level was lower in AKI patients experiencing partial recovery than in patients experiencing complete recovery. Conclusion: The activation of the wnt/β-catenin pathway by CM protects against cisplatin-induced kidney injury, resulting in reduced apoptosis and intracellular ROS levels.
Ineficiencia económia y deuda de transparencia en México
Authors: Martínez Rodríguez María Concepción , Garcia Morales Maria Isabel , Vera Martínez Martin C.
Published: December 2017

El presente trabajo analiza como se da la relación del gasto improductivo y la corrupción en México. Es un estudio descriptivo-exploratorio sobre  el marco regulatorio del presupuesto y el gasto público, su ejercicio y la transparencia; se describe cómo opera éste, y cuales han sido los resultados. Se citan algunos ejemplos sobre el gasto improductivo y se esboza algunas recomendaciones y conclusiones.
Migração simbólica e dialética da identidade cultural nos processos de migração
Authors: Seixas Renato
Published: December 2017

A migração provoca crise de identidade com múltiplas dimensões porque o migrante não se integra completamente à cultura do lugar de destino e, por outro lado, deixa de pertencer completamente à sua cultura de origem. Pode-se assim falar em migração simbólica, que é complexo processo dialético e exige análise dos elementos constitutivos da identidade cultural, a saber: a) alteridade entre dois indivíduos ou grupos; b) contraste das semelhanças e diferenças entre dois ou indivíduos ou grupos; c) confronto identitário num certo lugar; d) confronto identitário num certo tempo; e) a atribuição de significação à relação de alteridade; f) a transcendência das semelhanças e diferenças para reorganizar os repertórios culturais que possibilitem a reprodução dos indivíduos e do sistema simbólico compartilhado. Este artigo tem por objetivo refletir sobre as migrações em geral para explorar e compreender a complexidade das relações dialéticas que migrantes vivenciam no trânsito de um lugar a outro, de um repertório cultural a outro, até que lhes seja possível, talvez, transcender os conflitos inerentes a esse processo e compartilhar um sistema simbólico que lhes assegure a possibilidade de reprodução material e cultural. Foi adotado o método de leitura cultural, que consiste em buscar e compreender os elementos arquetípicos, elementos culturais miscigenados e elementos dominantes componentes do repertório cultural do indivíduo e/ou grupo relacionado com o fenômeno estudado para, então, possibilitar compreensão em profundidade da rede de significados intertextuais da cultura em análise.
Significance of Inducible Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardias After Catheter Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fujii Akira , Nagashima Koichi , Kumar Saurabh , Tanigawa Shinichi , Baldinger Samuel H. , Michaud Gregory F. , John Roy M. , Koplan Bruce A. , Tokuda Michifumi , Inada Keiichi , Tedrow Usha B. , Stevenson William G.
Published: December 2017

Background

Noninducibility of sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (SMVT) postablation does not insure absence of later recurrence in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. This study aims to determine the relation between inducible nonsustained VT postablation and VT recurrences.

Methods and Results

One hundred sixty-five consecutive patients (156 male; age 68±9 years) underwent ablation for SMVT because of ischemic cardiomyopathy; 44 patients who did not have induction testing or in whom only ventricular fibrillation was induced after ablation were excluded. In 38 patients (23%), SMVT was inducible (group C). Of the 83 patients without inducible SMVT after ablation, nonsustained VT defined as ≥5 beats lasting for <30 s, was induced in 34 patients (group B, 21%), whereas the remaining 49 patients had no VT induced by the induction test (group A, 30%). Over a median follow-up of 18.7 months, freedom from recurrent VT at 24 months was 60% in group A, 45% in group B (
P
=0.017 versus group A), and 38% in group C (
P
=0.005 versus group A). In patients without inducible SMVT, inducible nonsustained VT and left ventricular ejection fraction was independently associated with VT recurrence (hazard ratio, 3.66 and 1.07; 95% CI, 1.3–11.1 and 1.01–1.14).

Conclusions

Inducible nonsustained VT postablation suggests the continued presence of functional arrhythmia substrate. Further trials are needed to assess whether additional ablation would improve outcome in this group.
Familial Ebstein Anomaly
Authors: Mercer Catherine L. , Andreoletti Gaia , Carroll Aisling , Salmon Anthony P. , Temple I. Karen , Ennis Sarah
Published: December 2017

Background—

Familial Ebstein anomaly is a rare form of congenital heart disease. We report 7 individuals among 2 generations of 1 family with Ebstein anomaly. This family was first reported in 1991 by Balaji et al in which family members were also reported to have a mild skeletal phenotype. The most likely mechanism of inheritance was concluded to be autosomal dominant. We sought to identify the genetic pathogenesis in this family using a next generation sequencing approach.

Methods and Results—

Whole exome sequencing was performed in 2 cousins in this family using the Agilent SureSelect Human all Exon 51 Mb version 5 capture kit. Data were processed through an analytic in-house pipeline. Whole exome sequencing identified a missense mutation in
FLNA
(Filamin A), an actin-binding protein located at Xq28, mutations in which are associated with the skeletal phenotypes Frontometaphyseal dysplasia, Otopalatodigital, and Melnick–Needles syndrome, with X-linked periventricular nodular heterotopia and FG syndrome (Omim, 305450). Review of the phenotypes of those with the mutation in this family shows increased severity of the cardiac phenotype and associated skeletal features in affected males, consistent with X-linked inheritance.

Conclusions—

Although congenital heart disease is reported in families with mutations in
FLNA
, this is the first report of individuals being affected by Ebstein anomaly because of a mutation in this gene and details the concurrent skeletal phenotype observed in this family.
Personalized Anticoagulation
Authors: Ravvaz Kourosh , Weissert John A. , Ruff Christian T. , Chi Chih-Lin , Tonellato Peter J.
Published: December 2017

Background—

Clinical trials testing pharmacogenomic-guided warfarin dosing for patients with atrial fibrillation have demonstrated conflicting results. Non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants are expensive and contraindicated for several conditions. A strategy optimizing anticoagulant selection remains an unmet clinical need.

Methods and Results—

Characteristics from 14 206 patients with atrial fibrillation were integrated into a validated warfarin clinical trial simulation framework using iterative Bayesian network modeling and a pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model. Individual dose–response for patients was simulated for 5 warfarin protocols—a fixed-dose protocol, a clinically guided protocol, and 3 increasingly complex pharmacogenomic-guided protocols. For each protocol, a complexity score was calculated using the variables predicting warfarin dose and the number of predefined international normalized ratio (INR) thresholds for each adjusted dose. Study outcomes included optimal time in therapeutic range ≥65% and clinical events. A combination of age and genotype identified different optimal protocols for various subpopulations. A fixed-dose protocol provided well-controlled INR only in normal responders ≥65, whereas for normal responders <65 years old, a clinically guided protocol was necessary to achieve well-controlled INR. Sensitive responders ≥65 and <65 and highly sensitive responders ≥65 years old required pharmacogenomic-guided protocols to achieve well-controlled INR. However, highly sensitive responders <65 years old did not achieve well-controlled INR and had higher associated clinical events rates than other subpopulations.

Conclusions—

Under the assumptions of this simulation, patients with atrial fibrillation can be triaged to an optimal warfarin therapy protocol by age and genotype. Clinicians should consider alternative anticoagulation therapy for patients with suboptimal outcomes under any warfarin protocol.
Toward Genetics-Driven Early Intervention in Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kinnamon Daniel D. , Morales Ana , Bowen Deborah J. , Burke Wylie , Hershberger Ray E. , Hershberger Ray E. , Kinnamon Daniel D. , Morales Ana , Gastier-Foster Julie M. , Burke Wylie , Bowen Deborah J. , Nickerson Deborah A. , Dorschner Michael O. , Haas Garrie , Abraham William , Binkley Philip , Hasan Ayesha , Host Jennifer , Lampert Brent , Smith Sakima , Huggins Gordon , DeNofrio David , Kiernan Michael , Fishbein Daniel , Cheng Richard , Dardas Todd , Levy Wayne , Mahr Claudius , Masri Sofia , Stempien-Otero April , Gottlieb Stephen , Wheeler Matthew , Ashley Euan , Platt Julia , Hofmeyer Mark , Tang Wilson , Starling Randall , Moran Rocio , Owens Anjali , Marguilies Kenneth , Cappola Thomas , Goldberg Lee , Brozena Susan , Rame J. , McLean Rhondalyn , Moore Charles , deShazo Matthew , Long Robert , Jimenez Carcamo Francisco , Hrachian-Haftevani Hakop , Trachtenberg Barry , Ashrith Guhu , Bhimarahj Arvind , Estep Jerry , Sweitzer Nancy , Bustamante Carlos D. , Jarvik Gail P. , Martin Eden R. , Rehm Heidi , Desvigne-Nickens Patrice , Troendle, James , Fu Yi-Ping , Hindorff Lucia
Published: December 2017

Background—

The cause of idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is unknown by definition, but its familial subtype is considered to have a genetic component. We hypothesize that most idiopathic DCM, whether familial or nonfamilial, has a genetic basis, in which case a genetics-driven approach to identifying at-risk family members for clinical screening and early intervention could reduce morbidity and mortality.

Methods—

On the basis of this hypothesis, we have launched the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute- and National Human Genome Research Institute-funded DCM Precision Medicine Study, which aims to enroll 1300 individuals (600 non-Hispanic African ancestry, 600 non-Hispanic European ancestry, and 100 Hispanic) who meet rigorous clinical criteria for idiopathic DCM along with 2600 of their relatives. Enrolled relatives will undergo clinical cardiovascular screening to identify asymptomatic disease, and all individuals with idiopathic DCM will undergo exome sequencing to identify relevant variants in genes previously implicated in DCM. Results will be returned by genetic counselors 12 to 14 months after enrollment. The data obtained will be used to describe the prevalence of familial DCM among idiopathic DCM cases and the genetic architecture of idiopathic DCM in multiple ethnicity–ancestry groups. We will also conduct a randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of
Family Heart Talk
, an intervention to aid family communication, for improving uptake of preventive screening and surveillance in at-risk first-degree relatives.

Conclusions—

We anticipate that this study will demonstrate that idiopathic DCM has a genetic basis and guide best practices for a genetics-driven approach to early intervention in at-risk relatives.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT03037632.
(In)formal Migrant Settlements and Right to Respect for a Home
Authors: Slingenberg Lieneke , Bonneau Louise
Published: December 2017

Across European cities, migrants without access to state facilities, resort to living in ‘makeshift camps’ or squats. These settlements are usually evacuated and demolished by state authorities. Instead of discussing the state’s positive obligation to provide decent housing, this article focusses solely on the state’s negative obligations under the right to respect for a home as laid down in Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights (echr). Drawing upon the cases of Calais and Amsterdam, this article scrutinizes domestic case law about evictions from (in)formal migrant settlements and compares that to case law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). We argue that the ECtHR case law provides a relevant framework that should be used to evaluate the legitimacy of evictions and destructions of (in)formal migrants’ settlements. Despite the fact that applying this framework would not entail a complete ban on evictions, it would provide some welcome (procedural and substantive) protection for migrants.
A systematic revision of the Japanese species of the genus Therion (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Anomaloninae)
Authors: Shimizu So , Bennett Andrew M.R. , Ito Masato , Maeto Kaoru
Published: December 2017

The Japanese species of the genus Therion
Curtis, 1829 (Ichneumonidae: Anomaloninae) were revised based on examination of 447 Japanese specimens. Four species are recognized based on morphology and sequence data (mtCOI). Two of them are identified as previously known species: T. circumflexum (Linnaeus, 1758) and T. giganteum (Gravenhorst, 1829). The other two species are described as new: T. carinatum Shimizu & Bennett, sp. nov. and T. nigrigasterum Shimizu, Bennett & Ito, sp. nov. In addition, T. rufomaculatum (Uchida, 1928) stat. rev. is once again synonymized with T. circumflexum. The Japanese species of Therion are easily distinguished from each other by a newly provided key. The lasiocampid moth, Dendrolimus spectabilis (Butler, 1877), is newly recorded as a host of T. giganteum.
Sacred Mother Bodhisattva, Buddha and Cakravartin
Authors: Simpson Emily B.
Published: December 2017

Empress Jingū 神功 appears in the eighth century Japanese chronicles as a ruling empress and a shaman. Her supposed conquest of the Korean peninsula was accomplished by the divine assistance of the various kami (gods) she invokes. Centuries later, with the growing influence of Buddhism and the development of honji suijaku 本地垂迹 theory in medieval Japan, Jingū’s story was reimagined with the addition of various Buddhist elements. Here, I explore how the Hachiman gudōkun 八幡愚童訓 (kō text, 1308–1318), the origin narrative of shrine-temple complex Iwashimizu Hachimangū, reinvents this early legend along Buddhist lines. The Gūdokun presents Empress Jingū as the Sacred Mother Bodhisattva, a manifestation of Amida Buddha, and a cakravartin. By altering the roles of Empress Jingū, as well as employing a Buddhist worldview, the text recast the whole story as one of Buddhist salvation and contributed to Jingū’s growing image as a goddess of childbirth.
UNCTAD’s World Investment Reports 1991–2015: 25 Years of Narratives Justifying and Balancing Foreign Investor Rights
Authors: Perrone Nicolás M.
Published: December 2017

This article examines an influential narrative of foreign investor rights and the international investment regime. It draws on twenty-five of the World Investment Reports (WIRs) issued by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (1991–2015). It argues that the justifications provided by these reports have contributed to shaping a global commodity conception of property. These WIRs describe foreign investor rights following a narrative of wealth maximisation by transnational corporations (TNCs), and focus on a TNC-assisted restructuring of host states and local communities. Since the mid-2000s, these reports have balanced this narrative because of the increasing consensus that international investment treaties unduly constrain regulatory space. Ultimately, however, this article shows that the recent WIRs promote an approach to public regulation that is not inconsistent with a global commodity conception of property.
On Investment Law and Questions of Change
Authors: Paine Joshua
Published: December 2017

This article analyses the various ways in which investment law raises questions of change. It distinguishes between changes in international investment norms, and changes in a host state’s regulatory system which is subject to the control of such norms, and explains how these different manifestations of change relate to the distinct yet interrelated issues of interpretation and application. The article explains why, given features of the contemporary investment regime, on questions of interpretation, concerning the content of international investment norms, arbitrators operate within wider processes of law-development over which states, as treaty masters, also exercise significant influence. In contrast, arbitrators dominate the process of applying international investment norms to particular investor-state disputes to determine whether changes in a host state’s regulatory system breach applicable investment norms. This claim is demonstrated in relation to the two most prominent investment treaty standards: fair and equitable treatment, and the protection against indirect expropriation.
The Two Ibn Sīnās: Negotiating Literature
Authors: Khan M.A. Mujeeb
Published: December 2017

This article investigates developments in medical literature through Ibn Sīnā’s Poem on Medicine (al-Urjūza fī al-ṭibb) to demonstrate how the Poem’s unique organization represents a different, practicable work. While Ibn Sīnā’s Canon of Medicine (K. al-Qānūn fī al-ṭibb) has traditionally been used to understand his approach to medicine, this article argues for a different Ibn Sīnā as seen through his Poem to show that the Poem should not be subordinated to the Canon. As the first comprehensive treatment of the Poem, it contextualizes the Poem in the medical literary tradition of the Islamic world followed by an analysis of the Poem’s structure. Finally, through a study of how this structure compares with other works, it establishes how the Poem is different from these other works to present a different Ibn Sīnā. In doing so, it hopes to draw interest to the role of textual agency in the conceptualization of medical literature.
Medical Knowledge in ʿAlī Ufuḳī’s Musical Notebook (Mid-17th Century)
Authors: Haug Judith I.
Published: December 2017

Captured by Tatars as a young man and sold to the Sultan’s court, the Polish-Ottoman court musician and interpreter ʿAlī Ufuḳī (Albert/Wojciech Bobowski, c. 1610–1675) was a bicultural personality with widespread interest in different areas of learning. His priceless notation collection (MS Paris, Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Turc 292) also contains a wealth of medical texts both European and Ottoman, copied or excerpted from existing sources, as well as personal notes and case descriptions. European and Ottoman medical knowledge is presented side by side as encountered and found worthwhile by ʿAlī Ufuḳī, who evidently had access to drugs and treated at least himself. Among a group of personal observations, case studies from plague outbreaks of the 1640s stand out for their historical importance. MS Turc 292 is the personal document of a transcultural personality capable of benefiting from a diverse environment that encouraged transfer and exchange of knowledge.
A new species of Chrysanthrax Osten Sacken (Diptera: Bombyliidae) from Costa Rica parasitic on an ant lion (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae)
Authors: EVENHUIS NEAL L.
Published: December 2017

A new species of bee fly of the genus Chrysanthrax Osten Sacken, C. pennyi, n. sp., is described and illustrated. It was reared from the larva of a myrmeleontid, which marks the first record of parasitism by the genus of that family. The pupal exuvium is described and illustrated and a key to species known from Central America is given.
First columbellid species (Gastropoda: Buccinoidea) from deep-sea hydrothermal vents, discovered in Okinawa Trough, Japan
Authors: CHEN CHONG , WATANABE HIROMI KAYAMA , ARAYA JUAN FRANCISCO
Published: December 2017

The molluscan diversity of deep-sea chemosynthetic ecosystems in Japan has been in general well documented with about 80 described species, of which over half are gastropods (Sasaki et al. 2005; Fujikura et al. 2012; Sasaki et al. 2016). Recently, however, a number of novel hydrothermal vent sites were discovered in the area using multibeam echo-sounding (Nakamura et al. 2015), providing opportunities for new discoveries. As a part of ongoing studies documenting the biodiversity of such sites, we present the first record of Columbellidae from hydrothermal vents, with a new species recovered from Natsu and Aki sites, in the Iheya North hydrothermal field (for map and background on the vent field see Nakamura et al. 2015).
A new Neotropical genus of bee flies (Diptera, Bombyliidae, Phthiriinae)
Authors: YAMAGUCHI CAROLINA , LAMAS CARLOS JOSÉ E. , EVENHUIS NEAL L.
Published: December 2017

A new genus of Phthiriinae, Hirsutophallus gen. nov. is described, based on the examination of male and female specimens from the Andean region of Bolivia and Argentina. Hirsutophallus gen. nov. contains several characters that distinguish it from other Phthiriinae genera, such as: prominent tip on the lateral margin of the scape; lower lobes on epiphallus; prominent lateral lobes on epiphallus, with dorsal macrosetae; penial guide of distiphallus with long and dense macrosetae on dorsal surface; gonocoxite with medial process large basally and acute apex in lateral view, with short apical and ventral spines and posterior process with ventral spines; gonostylus with row of spines on apical third of dorsal and ventral surface and furca with V-shaped sclerites, with very long and curved parallel arms. The new genus, endemic to the Neotropical Region, is described to accommodate Hirsutophallus andinus gen. nov. et sp. nov. An identification key to the genera of Phthiriinae is also provided. The species is described and illustrated in detail, including the male and female terminalia.
A new bamboo-feeding species of Kaochiaoja Tao (Hemiptera: Aphididae) from India
Authors: JOSHI SUNIL , BLACKMAN R. L.
Published: December 2017

A new species of the genus Kaochiaoja Tao 1963, K. sikkimensis sp. n., was collected on Phyllostachys sp. (Poaceae) from Upper Tadong area of Gangtok, East Sikkim, India. Apterous and alate viviparae of this species are described, illustrated and discussed in comparison with the only other nominal species in this genus.
Exploring the Backstage: Preparation and Implementation of Mass Protests in Germany
Authors: Rucht Dieter
Published: December 2017

This article aims to shed light on the understudied backstage of mass street protest preparation and implementation. In this article, I present an exploratory framework for systematizing the basic tasks and challenges of organizing a mass protest in the streets or other places. I elaborate on the concept of backstage and provide an overview of the basic tasks and challenges in preparing and organizing mass protest. These tasks are fleshed out with empirical support in the article, followed by some concluding remarks.
Mapping the Balint groups to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education family medicine competencies
Authors: Lichtenstein Albert , Antoun Jumana , Rule Chris , Knowlton Katherine , Sternlieb Jeffrey
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Balint group discussions provide learning opportunities for many of the competencies and milestones put forward by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. The current literature is mixed concerning the effect of Balint groups on communication skills and professionalism.

Aim

To map the content of the Balint discussion to the competencies and milestones put forward by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Methodology: A group who were both experts in Balint and members of the clinical competency committee of residency programs rated narratives that summarized Balint group discussions. Credentialed Leaders of the American Balint Society were invited via email to submit narratives (250 words) about Balint groups that they have led, or were leading, with residents.

Results

Only four narratives were submitted. Additional cases were recruited through literature review of published Balint discussion cases. A total of 25 cases were rated by the committee. There was agreement between three out of four raters on at least one core milestone in every case. The most frequent milestones were C1 (develops meaningful therapeutic relationships with patients and families), C2 (communicated effectively with patients, families, and public), Prof1 (completes a process of professionalization), and Prof3 (demonstrates humanism and cultural proficiency). Balint groups provided a learning opportunity for a subset of milestones in at least 36% of the cases.

Conclusion

This pilot research suggests that Balint groups and the discussions of complex and challenging cases provide learning opportunities for multiple family medicine milestones, mainly communication skills and professionalism. Further research is needed to refine the methodology and the rating system.
The “Spirit” of Confucian Education in Contemporary China: Songyang Academy and Zhengzhou University
Authors: Walton Linda
Published: December 2017

The recent reincarnation of Songyang Academy, one of the “Four Great Academies” of the Northern Song dynasty, is an example of “academy fever” 书院热 in China today. Along with nearby Shaolin Temple, the academy has become a site for cultural heritage tourism in northwestern Henan. In addition to its attraction as a tourist destination, however, Songyang Academy has also been appropriated by neighboring Zhengzhou University as an auxiliary Confucian campus. Focusing on its relationship with Zhengzhou University, this article considers Songyang Academy’s restoration in the context of current debates in China about modern university education, Confucianism, and “national studies” ( guoxue 国学). The Zhengzhou University–Songyang Academy partnership provides a concrete, if ambivalent, example of cultural governance in action, as provincial Communist Party officials and university administrators collaborate to produce a national studies curriculum rooted in their vision of Confucian pedagogy.
Proprietors and parasites
Authors: Cockburn Patrick J. L. , Thorup Mikkel
Published: December 2017

This article introduces the idea of ‘dependence subtexts’ to explain how the stories that we encounter in property theory and public rhetoric function to make some actors appear ‘independent’, and thus capable of acquiring property in their own right, while making other actors appear ‘dependent’ and thus incapable of acquiring property. The argument develops the idea of ‘dependence subtexts’ out of the work of legal scholar Carol Rose and political theorist Carole Pateman, before using it as a tool for contrasting the canonical property stories of John Locke and Pierre-Joseph Proudhon. We argue that the link between property and dependence provides a useful starting point for understanding issues of economic justice that share a common political problem: how do we choose to govern the relation between dependence and independence through the institution of property?
Endoscopic Management of Paranasal Sinus Mucoceles: Meta‐analysis of Visual Outcomes
Authors: Zukin Leonid M. , Hink Eric M. , Liao Sophie , Getz Anne E. , Kingdom Todd T. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Paranasal sinus mucoceles are benign cystic lesions originating from sinus mucosa that can impinge on adjacent orbital structures, causing ophthalmic sequelae such as decreased visual acuity. Definitive treatment requires surgery. We present the first meta‐analysis quantifying the effect of preoperative visual function and time to surgery on postoperative visual acuity outcomes.

Data Sources

PubMed, Ovid, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library.

Methods

Two independent authors systematically reviewed articles describing outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery for paranasal sinus mucoceles presenting with visual loss. Available data from case reports and series were combined to analyze the associations among preoperative visual acuity, time to surgery, and postoperative outcomes.

Results

Eighty‐five studies were included that provided data on 207 patients. The average presenting visual acuity was 1.57 logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution), and the average postoperative visual acuity was 0.21 logMAR, with visual improvement in 71.5% of cases. Preoperative visual acuity ≥1.52 logMAR correlated with postoperative improvement >1 logMAR (R = 0.4887, P <. 0001). A correlation was found between a time to surgery <6 days and postoperative improvement (R = 0.297, P <. 0001). Receiver operator curve analysis of these thresholds demonstrated a moderately accurate prognostic ability (area under the curve: 75.1 for preoperative visual acuity and 73.1 for time to surgery).

Conclusion

Visual loss resulting from paranasal sinus mucoceles is potentially reversible in most cases, even those presenting with poor vision. When possible, surgery should be performed promptly after diagnosis, but emergency surgery does not appear to be necessary for vision restoration.
Radiodensity of the Ostiomeatal Complex in Recurrent Acute Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Johnson Sean M. , Honeybrook Adam L. , Ramprasad Vaibhav H. , Abi Hachem Ralph , Jang David W.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Recurrent acute rhinosinusitis (RARS) can be an elusive diagnosis due to the lack of clinical and radiographic findings in between acute episodes. This study aims to identify objective computed tomography (CT) characteristics in RARS.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Patients meeting diagnostic criteria for RARS were identified retrospectively from the senior author’s practice. Patients were diagnosed with RARS if they experienced 3 or more episodes of acute sinusitis within the past year with complete resolution of symptoms in between episodes. At least 1 episode was confirmed via CT or endoscopy. CT scans showing prior surgery were excluded. The scans for these patients were compared with those from a normal control group. Bone radiodensity of the entire ostiomeatal complex (OMC), including the ethmoid bulla, middle turbinate, and uncinate, was measured in Hounsfield units. Maximum radiodensity was noted for each side.

Results

A total of 16 patients meeting inclusion criteria for RARS were compared with 16 healthy patients. The mean Lund‐MacKay score was 1.6 in the RARS group and 1.3 in the control group. The maximum radiodensity of the OMC was significantly higher in the RARS group (556) compared with that of the control group (327) (P <. 0001).

Conclusion

Patients with RARS had significantly greater radiodensity of the OMC compared with those in the control group despite minimal differences in mucosal disease. Radiodensity measurement of the OMC using Hounsfield units may help to identify patients with this elusive diagnosis.
Is therapeutic hypothermia during neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation associated with intracranial hemorrhage?
Authors: Cashen Katherine , Reeder Ron W. , Shanti Christina , Dalton Heidi J. , Dean J. Michael , Meert Kathleen L.
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

The use of therapeutic hypothermia during neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as a neurologic protective strategy has gained interest among clinicians despite limited data. Our objective is to describe the relationship between the use of therapeutic hypothermia during neonatal ECMO and complications, mortality and functional status among survivors.

Methods:

Secondary analysis of data collected by the Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network between December 2012 and September 2014. Data were collected prospectively from 267 neonates (<30 days) undergoing ECMO at eight clinical sites. Twenty neonates received therapeutic hypothermia.

Results:

Neonates receiving therapeutic hypothermia were more likely to have intracranial hemorrhage during the first seven days of ECMO than were non-hypothermic neonates (40.0% vs 15.8%, p=0.012). No differences were observed between groups for hospital mortality or functional status at hospital discharge among survivors. Variables independently associated with intracranial hemorrhage in the first seven days of ECMO included therapeutic hypothermia, gestational age at birth, age at initiation of ECMO, fibrinogen concentration and mode of ECMO.

Conclusion:

Therapeutic hypothermia during neonatal ECMO appears to be associated with intracranial hemorrhage.
Effectiveness of aquatic versus land physiotherapy in the treatment of peripheral neuropathies: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zivi Ilaria , Maffia Sara , Ferrari Vanessa , Zarucchi Alessio , Molatore Katia , Maestri Roberto , Frazzitta Giuseppe
Published: December 2017

Objective:

To compare the effects on gait and balance of aquatic physiotherapy versus on-land training, in the context of an inpatient rehabilitation treatment tailored for peripheral neuropathies.

Design:

Parallel-group, single-center, single-blind randomized controlled trial.

Subjects and setting:

Consecutive patients affected by peripheral neuropathy admitted in our Neuro-Rehabilitation Unit.

Interventions:

Patients received a four-week rehabilitation program composed by daily sessions of conventional physiotherapy and three sessions/week of specific treatment (aquatic vs. on-land).

Main measures:

Primary outcome measures were Berg Balance Scale and Dynamic Gait Index. Secondary outcome measures were Neuropathic Pain Scale, Overall Neuropathy Limitations Scale, Functional Independence Measure, Functional Ambulation Classification, Conley Scale and Medical Research Council Scale score for the strength of hip and ankle flexor and extensor muscles. For each scale, we calculated the difference between the scores at discharge and admission and compared it between the two groups.

Results:

Forty patients were enrolled: 21 in the water-based rehabilitation group and 19 in the land-based one. Patients were similar between groups. When comparing the groups, we found that “in-water” patients had a significant better improvement in the Dynamic Gait Index score (6.00 (4.00, 7.25) vs. 4.00 (1.25, 6.00), P = 0.0433). On the opposite, the “on-land” group showed a better improvement of the Functional Ambulation Classification score (1.0 (0.75, 1.0) vs. 1.0 (1.0, 2.0), P = 0.0386).

Conclusion:

Aquatic physiotherapy showed an effect comparable to the land-based rehabilitation on gait and balance dysfunctions of neuropathic patients.
How should we talk about palliative care, death and dying? A qualitative study exploring perspectives from caregivers of people with advanced cancer
Authors: Collins Anna , McLachlan Sue-Anne , Philip Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Background:

Health professionals commonly underestimate caregiver needs for information about palliative care, death and dying and may feel poorly prepared to discuss these issues. Few studies have sought caregiver perspectives of these communication practices.

Aim:

To explore caregiver perspectives on communication about death, dying and the introduction to palliative care, with a view towards a series of caregiver-informed recommendations for use in clinical practice.

Design:

Cross-sectional, prospective, exploratory qualitative design, involving narrative-style interviews and underpinned by an interpretative phenomenological framework.

Setting/participants:

Purposively sampled, English-speaking, adult caregivers of people with advanced cancer ( n = 25) recruited from cancer services at a tertiary metropolitan hospital in Melbourne, Australia.

Results:

Caregivers reported wanting routinely available written resources about palliative care, supplemented by conversations that are ideally staged overtime. Education about the tasks of palliative care should be separated from referral process, allowing time for gradual adjustment, and re-visiting discussion to enable patients and families to take some control in the process of transition. Once death is imminent, carers wanted health professionals to clarify how much they want to know about the dying process; provide spoken acknowledgement when death is close; include the words ‘death’ and ‘dying’; use direct language, avoiding euphemisms; and communicate about death with patient present.

Conclusion:

This study is among the first to directly address caregiver perspectives of communication about death, dying and the introduction to palliative care. The recommendations derived from caregiver perspectives build upon existing guidelines and offer health professionals some preliminary considerations around how to undertake these important communication tasks in future.