bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actuator-Assisted Calibration of Freehand 3D Ultrasound System
Authors: Koo Terry K. , Silvia Nathaniel
Published: May 2018

Freehand three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound has been used independently of other technologies to analyze complex geometries or registered with other imaging modalities to aid surgical and radiotherapy planning. A fundamental requirement for all freehand 3D ultrasound systems is probe calibration. The purpose of this study was to develop an actuator-assisted approach to facilitate freehand 3D ultrasound calibration using point-based phantoms. We modified the mathematical formulation of the calibration problem to eliminate the need of imaging the point targets at different viewing angles and developed an actuator-assisted approach/setup to facilitate quick and consistent collection of point targets spanning the entire image field of view. The actuator-assisted approach was applied to a commonly used cross wire phantom as well as two custom-made point-based phantoms (original and modified), each containing 7 collinear point targets, and compared the results with the traditional freehand cross wire phantom calibration in terms of calibration reproducibility, point reconstruction precision, point reconstruction accuracy, distance reconstruction accuracy, and data acquisition time. Results demonstrated that the actuator-assisted single cross wire phantom calibration significantly improved the calibration reproducibility and offered similar point reconstruction precision, point reconstruction accuracy, distance reconstruction accuracy, and data acquisition time with respect to the freehand cross wire phantom calibration. On the other hand, the actuator-assisted modified “collinear point target” phantom calibration offered similar precision and accuracy when compared to the freehand cross wire phantom calibration, but it reduced the data acquisition time by 57%. It appears that both actuator-assisted cross wire phantom and modified collinear point target phantom calibration approaches are viable options for freehand 3D ultrasound calibration.
Pilot-Based Time Domain SNR Estimation for Broadcasting OFDM Systems
Authors: Khan Abid Muhammad , Jeoti Varun , Rehman Muhammad Zaka Ur , Jilani Muhammad Taha , Chugtai Omer , Rehmani Mubashir Hussain
Published: May 2018

The estimation of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a major issue in wireless orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) system. In OFDM system, each frame starts with a preamble symbol that facilitates the SNR estimation. However, the performance of preamble-based SNR estimation schemes worsens in the fast-changing environment where channel changes symbol to symbol. Accordingly, in this paper, we propose a novel pilot-based SNR estimation scheme that optimally exploits the pilot subcarriers that are inserted in each data symbol of the OFDM frame. The proposed scheme computes the circular correlation between the received signal and the comb-type pilot sequence to obtain the SNR. The simulation results are compared with the conventional preamble-based Zadoff-Chu sequence SNR estimator. The results indicate that the proposed scheme generates near-ideal accuracy; especially in low SNR regimes, in terms of the normalized mean square error (NMSE). Moreover, this scheme offers a significant saving of computation over a conventional time domain SNR estimator.
Understanding Fluid Flow during Tectonic Reactivation: An Example from the Flamborough Head Chalk Outcrop (UK)
Authors: Faÿ-Gomord O. , Allanic C. , Verbiest M. , Honlet R. , Champenois F. , Bonifacie M. , Chaduteau C. , Wouters S. , Muchez P. , Lasseur E. , Swennen R.
Published: May 2018

Flamborough Head chalks are located at the extremities of E-W and N-S trending fault systems along the Yorkshire coast (UK). Rock deformation is expressed in Selwicks Bay where a normal fault is exposed along with a high density of calcite veins. The fault mineralization is tested using geochemistry. Crosscutting relationships are used to differentiate between three vein generations: a network of parallel veins that are oriented perpendicular to stratigraphy (Group I), hydraulic breccia with typical jigsaw puzzle structure (Group II), and a third generation of calcite veins crosscutting the two previous generations (Group III). Geochemical analyses revealed that all three generations possess the same chemical signature and must reflect successive pulses from the same mineralizing fluid source. Strontium isotope analyses showed that the veins have elevated 87Sr/86Sr ratios, that is, up to 7.110, while ratios of the chalk matrix equal 7.707. The latter value is in agreement with the signature of Late Cretaceous seawater. Consequently, the source of the fluid is external, reflecting an open system. The radiogenic Sr-isotope ratios, combined with low iron concentration, suggest that fluids migrated through sandy deposits. Fluid inclusion salinities range from 0 to 12 eq. wt% NaCl equiv. with a dominance of very low salinity inclusions, reflecting a meteoric signal. This leads to a model where meteoric fluids stored in an underlying confined sandstone aquifer were remobilized. The wide range of salinities could result from mixing of the meteoric fluid with some more saline fluids present in the rock sequence or from the dissolution of salts in the subsurface. In addition to the understanding of the local paragenetic evolution of the veining in Flamborough Head chalks, this study offers an insight into the way how fluid flows and mineralizes along fault zones.
Language and Sensory Neural Plasticity in the Superior Temporal Cortex of the Deaf
Authors: Que Mochun , Jiang Xinjian , Yi Chunyang , Gui Peng , Jiang Yuwei , Zhou Yong-Di , Wang Liping
Published: May 2018

Visual stimuli are known to activate the auditory cortex of deaf people, presenting evidence of cross-modal plasticity. However, the mechanisms underlying such plasticity are poorly understood. In this functional MRI study, we presented two types of visual stimuli, language stimuli (words, sign language, and lip-reading) and a general stimulus (checkerboard) to investigate neural reorganization in the superior temporal cortex (STC) of deaf subjects and hearing controls. We found that only in the deaf subjects, all visual stimuli activated the STC. The cross-modal activation induced by the checkerboard was mainly due to a sensory component via a feed-forward pathway from the thalamus and primary visual cortex, positively correlated with duration of deafness, indicating a consequence of pure sensory deprivation. In contrast, the STC activity evoked by language stimuli was functionally connected to both the visual cortex and the frontotemporal areas, which were highly correlated with the learning of sign language, suggesting a strong language component via a possible feedback modulation. While the sensory component exhibited specificity to features of a visual stimulus (e.g., selective to the form of words, bodies, or faces) and the language (semantic) component appeared to recruit a common frontotemporal neural network, the two components converged to the STC and caused plasticity with different multivoxel activity patterns. In summary, the present study showed plausible neural pathways for auditory reorganization and correlations of activations of the reorganized cortical areas with developmental factors and provided unique evidence towards the understanding of neural circuits involved in cross-modal plasticity.
Studying the Effects of Nonindicated Medications on Cancer: Etiologic versus Action-Focused Analysis of Epidemiologic Data
Authors: Jackson John W. , García-Albéniz Xabier
Published: May 2018

The study of nonindicated medications on cancer outcomes is challenged by potential time-related biases. The literature has strongly advocated for treating the exposure as time-varying and summarizing the outcomes through a dose–response model (an etiologic-focused analysis). An alternative is to refashion the data to resemble a hypothetical randomized trial of drug use (an action-focused analysis). To our knowledge, their relative treatment of time-related bias and aspects of interpretation have not been compared. In this commentary, using the study of metformin use on colorectal cancer risk by Bradley and colleagues (2018) as motivation, we compare the etiologic versus action-focused analysis of epidemiologic data. We examine their treatment of immortal person-time, time-varying confounding, selection bias, and the biological and clinical relevance of their results. In doing so, we aim to establish areas of common ground and points of departure that can guide future observational studies of medications on cancer risk, recurrence, and survival. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(5); 520–4. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Bradley et al., p. 525
Abemaciclib, a Selective CDK4/6 Inhibitor, Enhances the Radiosensitivity of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Naz Sarwat , Sowers Anastasia , Choudhuri Rajani , Wissler Maria , Gamson Janet , Mathias Askale , Cook John A. , Mitchell James B.
Published: May 2018

Purpose: To characterize the ionizing radiation (IR) enhancing effects and underlying mechanisms of the CDK4/6 inhibitor abemaciclib in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Design: IR enhancement by abemaciclib in a variety of NSCLC cell lines was assessed by in vitro clonogenic assay, flow cytometry, and target inhibition verified by immunoblotting. IR-induced DNA damage repair was evaluated by γH2AX analysis. Global metabolic alterations by abemaciclib and IR combination were evaluated by LC/MS mass spectrometry and YSI bioanalyzer. Effects of abemaciclib and IR combination in vivo were studied by xenograft tumor regrowth delay, xenograft lysate immunoblotting, and tissue section immunohistochemistry.

Results: Abemaciclib enhanced the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells independent of RAS or EGFR status. Enhancement of radiosensitivity was lost in cell lines deficient for functional p53 and RB protein. After IR, abemaciclib treatment inhibited DNA damage repair as measured by γH2AX. Mechanistically, abemaciclib inhibited RB phosphorylation, leading to cell-cycle arrest. It also inhibited mTOR signaling and reduced intracellular amino acid pools, causing nutrient stress. In vivo, abemaciclib, when administered in an adjuvant setting for the second week after fractionated IR, further inhibited vasculogenesis and tumor regrowth, with sustained inhibition of RB/E2F activity, mTOR pathway, and HIF-1 expression. In summary, our study signifies inhibiting the CDK4/6 pathway by abemaciclib in combination with IR as a promising therapeutic strategy to treat NSCLC.

Conclusions: Abemaciclib in combination with IR enhances NSCLC radiosensitivity in preclinical models, potentially providing a novel biomarker-driven combination therapeutic strategy for patients with NSCLC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(16); 3994–4005. ©2018 AACR.
Targeting the Mevalonate Pathway Suppresses VHL-Deficient CC-RCC through an HIF-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Thompson Jordan M. , Alvarez Alejandro , Singha Monika K. , Pavesic Matthew W. , Nguyen Quy H. , Nelson Luke J. , Fruman David A. , Razorenova Olga V.
Published: May 2018

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CC-RCC) is a devastating disease with limited therapeutic options available for advanced stages. The objective of this study was to investigate HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also known as statins, as potential therapeutics for CC-RCC. Importantly, treatment with statins was found to be synthetically lethal with the loss of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene, which occurs in 90% of CC-RCC driving the disease. This effect has been confirmed in three different CC-RCC cell lines with three different lipophilic statins. Inhibition of mevalonate synthesis by statins causes a profound cytostatic effect at nanomolar concentrations and becomes cytotoxic at low micromolar concentrations in VHL-deficient CC-RCC. The synthetic lethal effect can be fully rescued by both mevalonate and geranylgeranylpyrophosphate, but not by squalene, indicating that the effect is due to disruption of small GTPase isoprenylation and not the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis. Inhibition of Rho and Rho kinase (ROCK) signaling contributes to the synthetic lethality effect, and overactivation of hypoxia-inducible factor signaling resulting from VHL loss is required. Finally, statin treatment is able to inhibit both tumor initiation and progression of subcutaneous 786-OT1-based CC-RCC tumors in mice. Thus, statins represent potential therapeutics for the treatment of VHL-deficient CC-RCC. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(8); 1781–92. ©2018 AACR.
Targeting USP22 Suppresses Tumorigenicity and Enhances Cisplatin Sensitivity Through ALDH1A3 Downregulation in Cancer-Initiating Cells from Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yun Xinwei , Zhang Keqiang , Wang Jinhui , Pangeni Rajendra P. , Yang Lu , Bonner Melissa , Wu Jun , Wang Jami , Nardi Isaac K. , Gao Ming , Raz Dan J.
Published: May 2018

Loss of monoubiquitination of histone H2B (H2Bub1) was found to be associated with poor-differentiation and enhanced malignancy of lung adenocarcinoma. This study investigated the association and impact of the ubiquitin-specific peptidase 22 (USP22), an H2Bub1 deubiquitinase, on stem cell-like characteristics and cisplatin resistance in cancer-initiating cells (CIC) from primary lung adenocarcinoma. CICs were isolated, enriched, and characterized from patient-derived cancer tissues using both in vitro tumorsphere formation and in vivo xenograft assays. USP22 was determined to be predominantly expressed in CICs, a subpopulation of cells with high expression of the stem cell biomarkers, CD133 and CD44. The expression of USP22 in CICs is markedly reduced upon FBS/retinoic acid-induced differentiation. Moreover, knockdown of USP22 significantly suppressed tumorsphere formation and xenograft growth in NOD-SCID gamma (NSG) mice. Notably, USP22 and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity were elevated in tumorsphere cells that survived cisplatin treatment, whereas knockdown of USP22 significantly sensitizes tumorsphere cells to cisplatin. Interestingly, ALDH1A3, a predominant ALDH isozyme implicated in enhancing cisplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma, is significantly downregulated upon knockdown of USP22 in tumorsphere cells. Furthermore, knockdown of ALDH1A3 significantly sensitizes tumorsphere cells to cisplatin. Combined, these data demonstrate that USP22, predominantly expressed in CD133+ CICs, plays a critical role in tumorigenicity and cisplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma.

Implications: Targeting USP22 represents a potential therapeutic approach to suppress CICs in lung adenocarcinoma partially through downregulation of ALDH1A3 expression. Mol Cancer Res; 16(7); 1161–71. ©2018 AACR.
Oncogenic Mutants of MEK1: A Trilogy Unfolds
Authors: Maust Joel D. , Whitehead Christopher E. , Sebolt-Leopold Judith S.
Published: May 2018

Summary: It has generally been assumed that MEK mutants function similarly to one another and respond in the same manner to targeted drugs. Gao and colleagues challenge this assumption and report that MEK1 mutants fall into three unique phenotypic classes with respect to RAF dependency. A new class of MEK1 mutants is shown here to be RAF-independent, resistant to allosteric MEK inhibitors, and yet sensitive to treatment with a new ATP-competitive MEK inhibitor. Cancer Discov; 8(5); 534–6. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Gao et al., p. 648.
Characterization of Helicobacter pylori-Naïve Early Gastric Cancers
Authors: Yamada Akihiro , Kaise Mitsuru , Inoshita Naoko , Toba Takahito , Nomura Kosuke , Kuribayashi Yasutaka , Yamashita Satoshi , Furuhata Tsukasa , Kikuchi Daisuke , Matsui Akira , Mitani Toshifumi , Ogawa Osamu , Iizuka Toshiro , Hoteya Shu
Published: May 2018

Aim: Helicobacter pylori-naïve gastric cancers(GCs) have not been well documented. We aimed to characterize early H. pylori-naïve GCs. Subjects and Methods: Of 666 patients with GC resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection, H. pylori-naïve patients were extracted according to the definition: no H. pylori eradication history, negative for serum H. pylori-antibody and current H. pylori-infection tests, and no gastric atrophy by pepsinogen (PG) test, endoscopy, and histology. Results: It was found that 16 GCs were H. pylori-naïve, and classified into undifferentiated and differentiated type adenocarcinoma. All 9 undifferentiated type GCs were pale, depressed, mucosal pure signet ring cell adenocarcinoma except one of them and 7 differentiated type GCs were classified into 3 fundic gland type GCs and 4 foveolar type GCs. All fundic gland type GCs positive for PG-1 were cardia small submucosal tumor (SMT)-like protrusions with dilated vessels on the surface. All 4 foveolar type GCs were composed of dysplastic clear cells resembling foveolar epithelium, negative for PG-1 but positive for mucin 6 (MUC6) and MUC5AC. Endoscopically, all were laterally spreading elevations with papillary or villous surface. Conclusions: H. pylori-naïve GCs were infrequent at 2.5%, and classified into 3 types: a small pale depression of signet ring cell adenocarcinoma, a small SMT-like protrusion of fundic gland type GC, and a large laterally spreading elevation of foveolar type GC.
The Effect of Minimally Invasive Surfactant Therapy on Diaphragmatic Activity
Authors: de Waal Cornelia G. , Hutten Gerard J. , de Jongh Frans H. , van Kaam Anton H.
Published: May 2018

Background: Minimally invasive surfactant therapy (MIST) is increasingly used to treat preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). However, the effect of MIST on breathing effort is poorly studied. Objectives: To describe the effect of MIST on neural breathing effort assessed with transcutaneous electromyography of the diaphragm (dEMG) in preterm infants with RDS. Methods: Preterm infants with a gestational age < 37 weeks treated with MIST for RDS were included. dEMG measurements were done from 15 min before to 1 h after MIST. The percentage change in dEMG activity after MIST and the clinical response were analyzed. Results: Twenty preterm infants (mean gestational age 29.3 [SD 2.1] weeks; mean birth weight 1,230 [SD 391] g) were included. Seventeen infants did complete the 1-h measurement. Eleven (65%) infants had a decrease in their peakdEMG activity (median change –11.8% [IQR –26.8 to 5.8, p = 0.08]) 1 h after MIST. TonicdEMG activity decreased in 12 (71%) infants, with a median reduction of 6.3% (IQR –29.2 to 9.0, p = 0.07). FiO2 showed a rapid decrease following MIST (before, 0.47 [IQR 0.38–0.84]; 1 h after, 0.25 [IQR 0.21–0.30], p < 0.001). Conclusion: In addition to improved oxygenation, MIST results in a decrease in neural breathing effort measured by dEMG activity in the majority of preterm infants with RDS.
Everolimus Reduces the Size of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex-Related Huge Renal Angiomyolipomas Exceeding 20 cm in the Longest Diameter
Authors: Toriu Naoya , Mizuno Hiroki , Sawa Naoki , Sumida Keiichi , Suwabe Tatsuya , Hayami Noriko , Sekine Akinari , Yamanouchi Masayuki , Hoshino Junichi , Takaichi Kenmei , Yanagita Motoko , Fujimaru Takuya , Mori Takayasu , Sohara Eisei , Uchida Shinichi , Ubara Yoshifumi
Published: May 2018

We evaluated the efficacy of everolimus in 3 patients who had huge renal angiomyolipomas associated with tuberous sclerosis complex. Two patients with large lipid-rich angiomyolipomas had a history of renal transarterial embolization for renal bleeding, but the effect had only been temporary and the embolized kidneys had continued to enlarge. In case 1, case 2, and case 3, total renal volume was respectively 3,891, 4,035, and 1,179 cm3 before administration of everolimus, decreasing to 3,016 (77%), 3,043 (75%), and 1,051 (89%) cm3 after 1 year of everolimus therapy and to 2,832 (73%), 3,209 (80%), and 1,102 (93%) cm3 after 3 years. New renal bleeding did not occur, but elevation of serum creatinine and urinary protein were noted in 2 patients. While previous reports have largely assessed the effect of everolimus for angiomyolipomas of < 10 cm in the longest diameter, our findings suggest that this drug might also be effective for huge lesions of > 20 cm in diameter. However, total renal volume still exceeds 2,000 cm3 in 2 of our patients, suggesting limited size reduction of lipid-rich angiomyolipomas. In addition, occurrence of everolimus-related nephropathy needs to be monitored carefully.
Novel Treatment Setup for Urethral Cancer: Use of the Prone Technique for Radiotherapy of the Penis
Authors: Naser-Tavakolian Aurash , Tran Cindy , Timoteo Marissa , Chiu Raymond , Ballas Leslie
Published: May 2018

Urethral cancer (UC) is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. Since local recurrence is common and associated with morbidity, case series have reported on the use of adjuvant radiotherapy. Radiotherapy treatment setup for malignancies of the penis can be challenging because of variability in anatomic positioning. This variability can lead to lack of reproducibility. We propose a novel external beam radiotherapy technique for the treatment of UC: prone positioning. This technique has been used to treat breast cancers successfully and can be used to treat any variety of penile malignancies. We present 2 patients who were treated using this positioning.
Sobre saberes e crenças: o Livro de Mórmon
Authors: Flaksman Clara
Published: May 2018

Este artigo é fruto de uma experiência de um ano de pesquisa de campo em uma Igreja Mórmon localizada no Rio de Janeiro. Seu principal objetivo é descrever a maneira como os mórmons apresentam sua experiência com a divindade, a saber: como uma forma de conhecimento. Com isso, pretende-se discutir a oposição entre crença e saber na antropologia, além de uma reflexão sobre o papel da(o) etnógrafa(o) em uma pesquisa de campo.
A experiência etnográfica em percurso: A viagem como vocação: itinerários, parcerias e formas de conhecimento, de Fernanda Arêas Peixoto
Authors: Tambascia Christiano Key
Published: May 2018

A experiência etnográfica em percurso: A viagem como vocação: itinerários, parcerias e formas de conhecimento, de Fernanda Arêas Peixoto
Repensando o sexo e o gênero na Política: Pensar o sexo e o gênero, de Eleni Varikas
Authors: Attianesi Daniel , Passamani Guilherme
Published: May 2018

Repensando o sexo e o gênero na Política: Pensar o sexo e o gênero, de Eleni Varikas
Ficções lésbicas: ponto de vista e contingências
Authors: Borysow Vitor , Arnés Laura
Published: May 2018

Tradução do primeiro capítulo do livro Ficciones lesbianas. Literatura y afectos en la cultura argentina (Buenos Aires, Madreselva, 2016) que procura definir e conceituar a noção de ficções lésbicas na literatura argentina a partir da década de 1950.
Resenha: Uma safo no modernismo português: Poesia e Prosa, de Judith Teixeira.
Authors: Souza Larissa
Published: May 2018

Resenha. Não há resumo.
Compassionate approaches for the conservation and protection of fire salamanders
Authors: Blaustein Leon , Segev Ori , Rovelli Valentina , Bar-David Shirli , Blank Lior , Polevikov Antonina , Pezaro Nadav , Krugman Tamar , Showstack Simona , Koplovich Avi , Ozeri Lital , Templeton Alan R.
Published: May 2018

The Near Eastern fire salamander, Salamandra infraimmaculata, is considered an endangered species in Israel and is near-threatened regionally. For 25 years, our laboratory has sought ethical sampling methods to protect individuals and populations of Salamandra. To “mark” individuals for estimating dispersal and population size, we use non-invasive individual-specific markings from photographs of larvae and adults. We demonstrated through mesocosm experiments (which are less mortality-driven than in nature) that exotic Gambusia affinis have extreme negative mortality effects on Salamandra larvae. From a compassionate conservation aspect, G. affinis should not be killed and placed in habitats where amphibians are not in danger and mosquitoes can be controlled. We identified breeding-site characteristics demonstrating that permanent breeding sites support larger adult populations than temporary breeding sites. For population genetics studies, we take minimal sized tail tips from adults (which have no adverse effects) for microsatellite data. For gene expression studies, rather than sacrifice entire bodies, we demonstrated that by taking only small larval tail tips, we could follow gene expression. We additionally demonstrated that tail tip removal does not affect survival, time to or size at metamorphosis. We documented high road kill rates at a specific breeding site. To prevent potential disease spread, we sterilize boots and sampling gear. We use results for implementing or recommending conservation of individuals and populations – e.g., identifying: movement corridors for breeding site dispersal; roadkill hotspots for under-road tunnels; suitable habitat for pool construction for more effective conservation; utilizing population genetics for recommending management units; information on demography and genetic diversity to identify hotspots for conservation; removal of Gambusia for amphibian protection.
Reticulascaceae hyphomycetes from submerged wood in Yunnan, China
Authors: MAHARACHCHIKUMBURA SAJEEWA S.N. , LUO ZONG-LONG , SU HONG-YAN , AL-SADI ABDULLAH M. , CHEEWANGKOON RATCHADAWAN
Published: May 2018

Asexual members of Reticulascaceae (Glomerellales, Hypocreomycetidae) are generally hyphomycetes and usually found as saprobes occurring on various hosts in lentic habitats. A brief survey of the freshwater fungi in Yunnan Province, China, was carried out and four species of Reticulascaceae were isolated. Morphological examination and sequence analysis of large subunit of the nuclear ribosomal RNA (LSU), RNA polymerase II gene encoding the second largest protein subunit (RPB2) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions provide evidence for two taxonomic novelties of Kylindria (K. aquatica and K. chinensis). Two other collections comprised two previously described species of Cylindrotrichum (C. clavatum and C. gorii). Descriptions and illustrations of the above taxa are provided and new species are discussed with comparable taxa.
Phylogenetic approaches reveal a new sterile lichen in the genus Loxospora (Sarrameanales, Ascomycota) in Poland
Authors: GUZOW-KRZEMIŃSKA BEATA , ŁUBEK ANNA , KUBIAK DARIUSZ , OSSOWSKA EMILIA , KUKWA MARTIN
Published: May 2018

Loxospora cristinae sp. nov. is a sterile corticolous lichen characterized by sorediate, thin, smooth, folded, cracked-areolate and non-verruculose to partly verruculose thalli, soralia soon becoming confluent and the production of 2’-O-methylperlatolic acid. The new species is similar to the recently described L. assateaguensis and L. confusa, which are also sterile and contain 2’-O-methylperlatolic acid. Loxospora assateaguensis can be readily distinguished from the new species by the thallus, which is distinctly verruculose almost from the edge and pustular, and the circular soralia developing apically on the thalline verrucae, and from L. confusa by the presence of granular isidia. The distinction of all three species and their phylogenetic position are also corroborated by molecular approaches using mtSSU and ITS markers. The new species has been found so far only in well preserved forests in Poland.
A Mesocosm Double Feature: Insights into the Chemical Makeup of Marine Ice Nucleating Particles
Authors: McCluskey Christina S. , Hill Thomas C. J. , Sultana Camille M. , Laskina Olga , Trueblood Jonathan , Santander Mitchell V. , Beall Charlotte M. , Michaud Jennifer M. , Kreidenweis Sonia M. , Prather Kimberly A. , Grassian Vicki , DeMott Paul J.
Published: May 2018

The abundance of atmospheric ice nucleating particles (INPs) is a source of uncertainty for numerical representation of ice-phase transitions in mixed-phase clouds. While sea spray aerosol (SSA) exhibits less ice nucleating (IN) ability than terrestrial aerosol, marine INP emissions are linked to oceanic biological activity and are potentially an important source of INPs over remote oceans. Inadequate knowledge of marine INP identity limits the ability to parameterize this complex INP source. A previous manuscript described abundances of marine INPs in relation to several aerosol composition and ocean biology observations during two laboratory mesocosm experiments. In this study, the abundances and chemical and physical properties of INPs found during the same mesocosm experiments were directly probed in SSA, seawater, and surface microlayer samples. Two unique marine INP populations were found: 1) dissolved organic carbon INPs are suggested to be composed of IN-active molecules, and 2) particulate organic carbon INPs are attributed as intact cells or IN-active microbe fragments. Both marine INP types are likely to be emitted into SSA following decay of phytoplankton biomass when 1) the surface microlayer is significantly enriched with exudates and cellular detritus and SSA particles are preferentially coated with IN-active molecules or 2) diatom fragments and bacteria are relatively abundant in seawater and therefore more likely transferred into SSA. These findings inform future efforts for incorporating marine INP emissions into numerical models and motivate future studies to quantify specific marine molecules and isolate phytoplankton, bacteria, and other species that contribute to these marine INP types.
The Impact of SST-Forced and Unforced Teleconnections on 2015/16 El Niño Winter Precipitation over the Western United States
Authors: Lim Young-Kwon , Schubert Siegfried D. , Chang Yehui , Molod Andrea M. , Pawson Steven
Published: May 2018

The factors impacting western U.S. winter precipitation during the 2015/16 El Niño are investigated using the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2), data, and simulations with the Goddard Earth Observing System, version 5 (GEOS-5), atmospheric general circulation model forced with specified sea surface temperatures (SSTs). Results reveal that the simulated response to the tropical Pacific SST associated with the 2015/16 El Niño was to produce wetter than normal conditions over much of the North American west coast including California—a result at odds with the negative precipitation anomalies observed over much of the southwestern United States. It is shown that two factors acted to partly counter the canonical ENSO response in that region. First, a potentially predictable but modest response to the unusually strong and persistent warm SST in the northeastern Pacific decreased precipitation in the southwestern United States by increasing sea level pressure, driving anticyclonic circulation and atmospheric descent, and reducing moisture transport into that region. Second, large-scale unforced (by SST) components of atmospheric variability (consisting of the leading modes of unpredictable intraensemble variability) resembling the positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation and Arctic Oscillation are found to be an important contributor to the drying over the western United States. While a statistical reconstruction of the precipitation from our simulations that account for internal atmospheric variability does much to close the gap between the ensemble-mean and observed precipitation in the southwestern United States, some differences remain, indicating that model error is also playing a role.
On the Seasonal Cycles Observed at the Continental Slope of the Eastern Eurasian Basin of the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Baumann Till M. , Polyakov Igor V. , Pnyushkov Andrey V. , Rember Robert , Ivanov Vladimir V. , Alkire Matthew B. , Goszczko Ilona , Carmack Eddy C.
Published: May 2018

The Eurasian Basin (EB) of the Arctic Ocean is subject to substantial seasonality. We here use data collected between 2013 and 2015 from six moorings across the continental slope in the eastern EB and identify three domains, each with its own unique seasonal cycle: 1) The upper ocean (<100 m), with seasonal temperature and salinity differences of Δθ = 0.16°C and ΔS = 0.17, is chiefly driven by the seasonal sea ice cycle. 2) The upper-slope domain is characterized by the influence of a hydrographic front that spans the water column around the ~750-m isobath. The domain features a strong temperature and moderate salinity seasonality (Δθ = 1.4°C; ΔS = 0.06), which is traceable down to ~600-m depth. Probable cause of this signal is a combination of along-slope advection of signals by the Arctic Circumpolar Boundary Current, local wind-driven upwelling, and a cross-slope shift of the front. 3) The lower-slope domain, located offshore of the front, with seasonality in temperature and salinity mainly confined to the halocline (Δθ = 0.83°C; ΔS = 0.11; ~100–200 m). This seasonal cycle can be explained by a vertical isopycnal displacement (ΔZ ~ 36 m), arguably as a baroclinic response to sea level changes. Available long-term oceanographic records indicate a recent amplification of the seasonal cycle within the halocline layer, possibly associated with the erosion of the halocline. This reduces the halocline’s ability to isolate the ocean surface layer and sea ice from the underlying Atlantic Water heat with direct implications for the evolution of Arctic sea ice cover and climate.
Delayed Recovery in Pediatric Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Predicted via Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wu Xuan , Jiang Hongyan , Wen Lanying , Zong Ling , Chen Kaitian
Published: May 2018

Objectives:

To evaluate the potential origins via magnetic resonance imaging and the relevant hearing recovery course of pediatric sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed data of 25 pediatric patients from our center with sudden sensorineural hearing loss from January 2011 to December 2016. All individuals were closely followed up at baseline and 1 and 6 months.

Results:

Magnetic resonance imaging identified presumed causes in 9 cases, 5 of which showed intralabyrinthine hyperintensity, suggesting presumptive intralabyrinthine hemorrhage. The remaining 20 patients showed no hyperintensity. Restoration of hearing and speech discrimination abilities were noted in these 25 children at 6 months versus the initial levels (74.2 ± 22.6 vs 93.5 ± 20.5 dB, p = .000, and 45.8 ± 36.0 vs. 18.3 ± 22.1%, p = .004, respectively). The prognosis of the individuals with intralabyrinthine hemorrhage were superior in terms of frequency and hearing threshold at 6 months compared with that of the no-hemorrhage participants. Word recognition scores improved in either studied group.

Conclusion:

The potential recovery of hearing in children raises concerns about very early surgical intervention within the first 6 months. Rational imaging and sequential audiometric evaluation to monitor the progression of recovery may be beneficial.
The Role of Risk Aversion in Reverse Payment Agreements
Authors: Li Wenqing
Published: May 2018

Both the courts and the economists have identified risk aversion as a justification for reverse payment agreements, especially the risk aversion of brand-name companies. However, existing economic researches show whether risk aversion can be a rationale for reverse payment agreements depends on the type of reverse payment agreements reached. In “complete” settlement agreement where a brand-name drug manufacturer provides consideration to a generic drug company to completely settle the patent litigation, with agreed-upon entry dates for the generic, risk aversion does not provide a justification for reverse payment, but asymmetry in risk aversion can be a rationale for reverse payment. In “partial” settlement agreement where a branded drug manufacturer provides consideration to a generic drug company in exchange for the generic to agree not to enter the market while they continue the patent litigation, it is not the risk aversion of the brand company, but the risk aversion of the generic company that can facilitate the parties to reach a partial settlement agreement with reverse payment that serves the procompetitive purpose.
Investigation of the Cross-Section Stratifications of Icons Using Micro-Raman and Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy
Authors: Lazidou Dimitra , Lampakis Dimitrios , Karapanagiotis Ioannis , Panayiotou Costas
Published: May 2018

The cross-section stratifications of samples, which were removed from six icons, are studied using optical microscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and micro-Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The icons, dated from the 14th to 19th centuries, are prominent examples of Byzantine painting art and are attributed to different artistic workshops of ​​northern Greece. The following materials are identified in the cross-sections of the icon samples using micro-Raman spectroscopy: anhydrite; calcite; carbon black; chrome yellow; cinnabar; gypsum; lead white; minium; orpiment; Prussian blue; red ochre; yellow ochre; and a paint of organic origin which can be either indigo ( Indigofera tinctoria L. and others) or woad ( Isatis tinctoria L.). The same samples are investigated using micro-FT-IR which leads to the following identifications: calcite; calcium oxalates; chrome yellow; gypsum; kaolinite; lead carboxylates; lead sulfate (or quartz); lead white; oil; protein; Prussian blue; saponified oil; shellac; silica; and tree resin. The study of the cross-sections of the icon samples reveals the combinations of the aforementioned inorganic and organic materials. Although the icons span over a long period of six centuries, the same stratification comprising gypsum ground layer, paint layers prepared by modified “egg tempera” techniques (proteinaceous materials mixed with oil and resins), and varnish layer is revealed in the investigated samples. Moreover, the presence of three layers of varnishes, one at the top and other two as intermediate layers, in the cross-section analysis of a sample from Virgin and Child provide evidence of later interventions.
Characterization of cubic tumbler rod milled dispersed carbon nanotubes–Aluminum composites
Authors: Alanka Sandeep , Ratnam Chanamala , Prasad Balla Srinivasa
Published: May 2018

In this work, cubic tumbler rod milling was used to disperse X wt% multiwalled carbon nanotubes (X = 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) in an aluminum matrix. Dispersed precursor of aluminum–multiwalled carbon nanotube composite was subsequently consolidated by cold compaction followed by sinter-forged process. Microstructural and mechanical behaviors of as-produced aluminum–multiwalled carbon nanotube composites with different concentration were investigated. Findings revealed that the as-produced Al–0.75 wt% carbon nanotube sinter-forged composite exhibits homogenous distribution and embedded nanotubes confirmed by the scanning electron microscope and the properties were observed to be increased significantly up to addition of 0.75 wt% of carbon nanotubes concentration than the pure aluminum as well as extruded composite and decrease to 1.0 wt% carbon nanotube due to the agglomeration of multiwalled carbon nanotube. However, enhancement of hardness, tensile strength, and Young’s modulus of the nanocomposites, compared with pure aluminum are 48.5, 83.8, and 30%, respectively. The tensile fractography of sinter-forged composite shows carbon nanotubes act like a bridge and barring the crack growth of aluminum matrix, remaining are pullout. Hence, it can be concluded that aluminum carbide phase starting from 0.75 wt% carbon nanotube and a strong interfacial bonding in as-produced aluminum–carbon nanotube composite has been observed which gives effective load transfer between aluminum matrix and carbon nanotubes.
Risk Perceptions After Receiving Multiple Risk Feedback
Authors: Gamp Martina , Schupp Harald T. , Renner Britta
Published: May 2018

How do people respond to multiple risk feedback in a real-life context? Based on theoretical assumptions, three different predictions for risk perceptions were tested: (a) relative accuracy in risk perceptions, (b) self-defensive responses according to self-affirmation theory, and (c) compensatory responses according to the compensatory health belief model. Participants of a community health screening ( N = 725) received multiple risk indicator feedback for actual blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood lipid levels. Consistent multiple risk feedback profiles encompassed three consistent readings (three normal or three elevated readings). Mixed risk profiles included one elevated and two normal readings. Results indicate relative accuracy in responses: an elevated reading triggered higher risk perception of the respective risk factor. Importantly, the effect was not modulated by the presence of normal readings as assumed by the self-defensive or compensatory response perspective, indicating that people accurately integrate multiple risk indicator feedback as it is often provided in real life.
Contextual Contracts: On a Context-sensitive Approach to Contract Theory
Authors: Goorha Prateek
Published: May 2018

I propose a method for introducing ‘context’ within the contractual environment based on a simple and intuitive application of control theory. The approach permits looking at several interesting practical features of contracts, be they incomplete, complete or smart, within a single framework. I define a contextual environment with the help of an interaction between three distinct spaces: a market-based contractual space framed within a formal institutional space and an even larger cultural space. Each space is characterized by a governing law built on a selection of control mechanisms that differ in their approach as well as their reliance on information generated from feedback mechanisms. I suggest how these governing laws tie the contextual spaces together and present some ideas on how they evolve through their interactions with other spaces.

JEL: D20, D86, P50, Z10
Gifts and Nationalism in Wartime Japan
Authors: Minowa Yuko , Belk Russell W.
Published: May 2018

This study investigates the shifting discourse and visual rhetoric of consumer rituals in the cultural media during wartime. Specifically, we examine Japanese newspaper advertisements for seasonal gifts and sympathy gifts in urban cities published between 1937 and 1940. This research addresses two questions: (1) how were advertising arguments constructed justifying spending for gifts while instructing readers on being thrifty during the wartime material shortages, and (2) how was the consumer ritual practice of gift giving used to propagate nationalism? The results of our iconographic-semiotic analysis show four advertising themes: compatibility with national policy, timeliness under the wartime circumstances, empathy with families whose members were serving at the front, and sympathy with those serving at the front. The advertisements enhanced nationalism in two ways: (1) through the promotion of nationalistic gift giving, and (2) by appealing to patriotism, which involves emotionally laden nationalistic sentiments.
Agriculturalizing finance? Data assemblages and derivatives markets in small-town New Zealand
Authors: Henry Matthew , Prince Russell
Published: May 2018

The financialization of agriculture appears to be proceeding apace. In New Zealand, the creation of a futures market for dairy lends weight to this story. What is less well understood about the process of financialization in agriculture, however, is how exactly it is proceeding. This paper focuses on NZXAgri, an offshoot of the New Zealand sharemarket operator NZX, which is tasked with the creation of the dairy derivatives market, and on the data infrastructure that is being assembled to underpin this trading space. The making of NZXAgri has been a complex process, resulting from the dissipation of a previous agriculture data assemblage during neoliberalization, and now with multiple political and economic projects partially aligned under its banner. Meanwhile, the emerging data assemblage relies on all manner of material and immaterial relational work to produce the necessary dairy production information for consumption by international financial actors. It is this kind of assembling work that is shaping the financialization of agriculture, and it requires constant negotiation with the diverse agencies of farmers and their rural contexts. This suggests that we are seeing the agriculturalization of finance alongside the financialization of agriculture.
Lecture-based versus problem-based learning in ethics education among nursing students
Authors: Khatiban Mahnaz , Falahan Seyede Nayereh , Amini Roya , Farahanchi Afshin , Soltanian Alireza
Published: May 2018

Background:

Moral reasoning is a vital skill in the nursing profession. Teaching moral reasoning to students is necessary toward promoting nursing ethics.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of problem-based learning and lecture-based methods in ethics education in improving (1) moral decision-making, (2) moral reasoning, (3) moral development, and (4) practical reasoning among nursing students.

Research design:

This is a repeated measurement quasi-experimental study.

Participants and research context:

The participants were nursing students in a University of Medical Sciences in west of Iran who were randomly assigned to the lecture-based (n = 33) or the problem-based learning (n = 33) groups. The subjects were provided nursing ethics education in four 2-h sessions. The educational content was similar, but the training methods were different. The subjects completed the Nursing Dilemma Test before, immediately after, and 1 month after the training. The data were analyzed and compared using the SPSS-16 software.

Ethical considerations:

The program was explained to the students, all of whom signed an informed consent form at the baseline.

Findings:

The two groups were similar in personal characteristics (p > 0.05). A significant improvement was observed in the mean scores on moral development in the problem-based learning compared with the lecture-based group (p < 0.05). Although the mean scores on moral reasoning improved in both the problem-based learning and the lecture-based groups immediately after the training and 1 month later, the change was significant only in the problem-based learning group (p < 0.05). The mean scores on moral decision-making, practical considerations, and familiarity with dilemmas were relatively similar for the two groups.

Conclusion:

The use of the problem-based learning method in ethics education enhances moral development among nursing students. However, further studies are needed to determine whether such method improves moral decision-making, moral reasoning, practical considerations, and familiarity with the ethical issues among nursing students.
Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus septicemia in alpacas: three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Corpa Juan M. , Carvallo Francisco , Anderson Mark L. , Nyaoke Akinyi C. , Moore Janet D. , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: May 2018

Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus septicemia of alpacas and llamas, also called alpaca fever, is characterized clinically by fever, depression, recumbency, and death, and pathologically by polyserositis. Although a few natural and experimental cases of the disease have been reported, very little information about the pathology of spontaneous cases has been published. We present a detailed gross and microscopic description of 3 spontaneous cases of alpaca fever and review the literature on this condition. Typical of spontaneous and experimental infections with S. equi ssp. zooepidemicus, the 3 animals had disseminated fibrinosuppurative polyserositis with vascular thrombosis and intralesional gram-positive cocci. In addition, 2 of the animals had severe fibrinosuppurative pneumonia, endocarditis, and myocardial necrosis; the third animal had transmural pleocellular enteritis with prominent lymphangitis. The enteric lymphangitis observed in the latter suggests that dissemination of S. equi ssp. zooepidemicus occurred through lymphatic circulation and that, at least in this animal, the portal of entry of infection was the alimentary system.