bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Computed Tomography Pebble Flow Detecting System for HTR-PM
Authors: Wan Xin , Liu Ximing , Miao Jichen , Cong Peng , Zhang Yuai , Wu Zhifang
Published: April 2017

Pebble dynamics is important for the safe operation of pebble-bed high temperature gas-cooled reactors and is a complicated problem of great concern. To investigate it more authentically, a computed tomography pebble flow detecting (CT-PFD) system has been constructed, in which a three-dimensional model is simulated according to the ratio of 1 : 5 with the core of HTR-PM. A multislice helical CT is utilized to acquire the reconstructed cross-sectional images of simulated pebbles, among which special tracer pebbles are designed to indicate pebble flow. Tracer pebbles can be recognized from many other background pebbles because of their heavy kernels that can be resolved in CT images. The detecting principle and design parameters of the system were demonstrated by a verification experiment on an existing CT system in this paper. Algorithms to automatically locate the three-dimensional coordinates of tracer pebbles and to rebuild the trajectory of each tracer pebble were presented and verified. The proposed pebble-detecting and tracking technique described in this paper will be implemented in the near future.
Impact of Heterogeneity on Opinion Dynamics: Heterogeneous Interaction Model
Authors: Chen Xi , Wu Zhan , Wang Hongwei , Li Wei
Published: April 2017

Considering the impact that physical distance and other properties have on the change of opinions, this paper introduces an intension model of the Hegselmann-Krause (KH) model—heterogeneous interaction (HI) model. Based on the classical KH model, HI model designs new interaction rules and the interactive radius considering the impact of heterogeneous attributes, such as physical distance, individual conformity, and authority. The experiment results show that the opinion evolution of the HI model will be similar to the classic KH model when the interactive radius is above the particular threshold value (σ>600). Unlike the KH model, which leads to the polarization phenomenon; most agents reach a consensus in HI model when the confidence radius equals 0.2, and the interactive radius remains within regulatory limits (150<σ<520). The conclusions show that interactive radius affects public opinion evolution. HI model can explain more conscious opinion evolution in real life and has significance that effectively guides public opinion.
Pneumomediastinum and Bilateral Pneumothoraces Causing Respiratory Failure after Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Koeppen Michael , Scott Benjamin , Morabito Joseph , Fiegel Matthew , Eckle Tobias
Published: April 2017

We report the first case of severe respiratory failure after thyroid surgery requiring venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (vvECMO). The patient was a 41-year-old woman with metastatic thyroid cancer. She underwent thyroidectomy, including left lateral and bilateral central neck dissection. During surgery, the patient developed pneumomediastinum with bilateral pneumothoraces. Despite early treatment with bilateral chest tubes and no evidence of a tracheal perforation, the patient developed severe respiratory failure after extubation on the intensive care unit. Because pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum might be more common than reported, and considering increasing cases of thyroid surgery, staff should remain vigilant of pulmonary complications after thyroid surgery.
Maternal Morbidity in Women with Placenta Previa Managed with Prediction of Morbidly Adherent Placenta by Ultrasonography
Authors: Fujisaki Midori , Furukawa Seishi , Maki Yohei , Oohashi Masanao , Doi Koutarou , Sameshima Hiroshi
Published: April 2017

Objective. To determine maternal morbidity in women with placenta previa managed with prediction of morbidly adherent placenta (MAP) by ultrasonography. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken comprising forty-one women who had placenta previa with or without risk factors for MAP. Women who had all three findings (bladder line interruption, placental lacunae, and absence of the retroplacental clear zone) were regarded as high suspicion for MAP and underwent cesarean section followed by hysterectomy. We attempted placental removal for women having two findings or less. Results. Among 28 women with risk, nine with high suspicion underwent hysterectomy and were diagnosed with MAP. Three of 19 women with two findings or less eventually underwent hysterectomy and were diagnosed with MAP. The sensitivity and positive predictive value for the detection of MAP were 64% and 100%. The pathological severity of MAP was significantly correlated with the cumulative number of findings. There were no cases of MAP among 13 women without risk. There was no difference of blood loss between women with high suspicion and those without risk (2186±1438 ml versus 1656±848 ml, resp.; p=0.34). Conclusion. Management with prediction of MAP by ultrasonography is useful for obtaining permissible morbidity.
De Novo PTEN Mutation in a Young Boy with Cutaneous Vasculitis
Authors: Mauro Angela , Omoyinmi Ebun , Sebire Neil James , Barnicoat Angela , Brogan Paul
Published: April 2017

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is the protein encoded by the PTEN gene (10q23.3). PTEN mutations are related to a variety of rare diseases referred to collectively as PTEN hamartoma tumor syndromes (PHTS), which include Cowden Syndrome, Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, Proteus Syndrome, and Proteus-like syndrome. These diseases are associated with an increased risk of malignancy and for this reason an accurate and early diagnosis is essential in order to institute cancer surveillance. PTEN is a regulator of growth and homeostasis in immune system cells, although there are limited data describing immune dysregulation caused by PTEN mutations. We describe a case of PHTS syndrome caused by a de novo mutation in PTEN detected using a targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) gene panel which was instigated for workup of cutaneous vasculitis. We highlight the diagnostic utility of this approach and that mutations in PTEN may be associated with immune-dysregulatory features such as vasculitis in young children.
EGFR Mediates Responses to Small-Molecule Drugs Targeting Oncogenic Fusion Kinases
Authors: Vaishnavi Aria , Schubert Laura , Rix Uwe , Marek Lindsay A. , Le Anh T. , Keysar Stephen B. , Glogowska Magdalena J. , Smith Matthew A. , Kako Severine , Sumi Natalia J. , Davies Kurtis D. , Ware Kathryn E. , Varella-Garcia Marileila , Haura Eric B. , Jimeno Antonio , Heasley Lynn E. , Aisner Dara L. , Doebele Robert C.
Published: April 2017

Oncogenic kinase fusions of ALK, ROS1, RET, and NTRK1 act as drivers in human lung and other cancers. Residual tumor burden following treatment of ALK or ROS1+ lung cancer patients with oncogene-targeted therapy ultimately enables the emergence of drug-resistant clones, limiting the long-term effectiveness of these therapies. To determine the signaling mechanisms underlying incomplete tumor cell killing in oncogene-addicted cancer cells, we investigated the role of EGFR signaling in drug-naïve cancer cells harboring these oncogene fusions. We defined three distinct roles for EGFR in the response to oncogene-specific therapies. First, EGF-mediated activation of EGFR blunted fusion kinase inhibitor binding and restored fusion kinase signaling complexes. Second, fusion kinase inhibition shifted adaptor protein binding from the fusion oncoprotein to EGFR. Third, EGFR enabled bypass signaling to critical downstream pathways such as MAPK. While evidence of EGFR-mediated bypass signaling has been reported after ALK and ROS1 blockade, our results extended this effect to RET and NTRK1 blockade and uncovered the other additional mechanisms in gene fusion–positive lung cancer cells, mouse models, and human clinical specimens before the onset of acquired drug resistance. Collectively, our findings show how EGFR signaling can provide a critical adaptive survival mechanism that allows cancer cells to evade oncogene-specific inhibitors, providing a rationale to cotarget EGFR to reduce the risks of developing drug resistance. Cancer Res; 77(13); 3551–63. ©2017 AACR.
Unbiased Quantification of Subplate Neuron Loss following Neonatal Hypoxia-Ischemia in a Rat Model
Authors: Mikhailova Alexandra , Sunkara Naveena , McQuillen Patrick S.
Published: April 2017

Background: Cellular targets of neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) include both oligodendrocyte and neuronal lineages with differences in the patterns of vulnerable cells depending upon the developmental stage at which the injury occurs. Injury to the developing white matter is a characteristic feature of human preterm brain injury. Data are accumulating, however, for neuronal injury in the developing cerebral cortex. In the most widely used rodent model of preterm HI brain injury, conflicting data have been reported regarding the sensitivity of subplate neurons to early neonatal HI, with some reports of selective vulnerability and others that find no increased loss of subplate neurons in comparison with other cortical layers. Methods used to identify subplate neurons and quantify their numbers vary across studies. Objective: To use recently developed cortical layer-specific markers quantified with definitive stereologic methods to determine the magnitude and specificity of subplate neuron cell loss following neonatal HI in a rodent model. Methods: Postnatal day 2 (P2) rats underwent right common carotid artery coagulation followed by 2-3 h of hypoxia (5.6% oxygen). Categorically moderately injured brains were stained with subplate and cortical layer III-V markers (Complexin3 and Foxp1, respectively) at P8 and P21 (Foxp1 only). An Optical Fractionator was used to quantify subplate and middle/lower cortical neuronal numbers and these were compared across groups (naive control, hypoxia hemisphere, and HI hemisphere). Results: Following HI at P2 in rats, the total Complexin3-expressing subplate neuron number decreases significantly in the HI hemisphere compared with naive controls or hypoxia alone (HI vs. control 26,747 ± 7,952 vs. 35,468 ± 8,029, p = 0.04; HI vs. hypoxia, 26,747 ± 7,952 vs. 40,439 ± 7,363, p = 0.003). In contrast, the total Foxp1-expressing layer III-V cell number did not differ across the 3 conditions at P8 (HI vs. control 1,195,085 ± 436,609 vs. 1,234,640 ± 178,540, p = 0.19; HI vs. hypoxia, 1,195,085 ± 436,609 vs. 1,289,195 ± 468,941, p = 0.35) and at P21 (HI vs. control 1,265,190 ± 48,089 vs. 1,195,632 ± 26,912, p = 0.19; HI vs. hypoxia, 1,265,190 ± 48,089 vs. 1,309,563 ± 41,669, p = 0.49). Conclusions: There is significant biological variability inherent in both the subplate neuron cell number and the pattern and severity of cortical injury following HI at P2 in rats. Despite this variability, the subplate neuron cell number is lower following P2 HI in animals with mild or moderate cortical injury, whereas the middle-to-lower-layer cortical neuronal number is unchanged. In more severe cases, neurons are lost from the lower cortical layers, suggesting a relative vulnerability of subplate neurons.
Nonparallel Progression of Left Ventricular Structure and Function in Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Shi Qiuhong , Zhu Jing , Feng Sheng , Shen Huaying , Chen Jianchang , Song Kai
Published: April 2017

Background/Aims: Left ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction are key cardiovascular risk factors of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the dynamic changes of left ventricular (LV) structure and function in patients on long-term PD. Methods: Patients who underwent PD catheter insertions from January 2010 to December 2012 in our PD center were enrolled into this study. Cardiac structure and function of those patients were determined by echocardiography (4 times) at 12-month intervals. Patients' biochemical parameters, body mass index, blood pressure, urine output, ultrafiltration, and total fluid removal volume were collected. The use of antihypertensive drugs and active vitamin D3 was also recorded. Results: A total of 40 patients were included. After 3 years of follow-up, patients' PD duration time, LV mass/height2.7 (p = 0.580), interventricular septal thickness (p = 0.216), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (p = 0.216), and LV ejection fraction (p = 0.270) did not show significant changes during the follow-up. In contrast, the E/A ratio (p = 0.004) and e' (p < 0.001) were statistically decreased, and the E/e' ratio (p = 0.006) was increased. Left atrial diameter was increased (p = 0.008), but the changes in left atrial diameter index did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.090). Conclusion: Long-term PD patients maintain stable LV structure and cardiac systolic function, but cardiac diastolic function declines over time.
Successful Treatment of Sudden Hepatitis Induced by Long-Term Nivolumab Administration
Authors: Imafuku Keisuke , Yoshino Koji , Yamaguchi Kei , Tsuboi Satoshi , Ohara Kuniaki , Hata Hiroo
Published: April 2017

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have drastically changed in the treatment of many kinds of malignancies, especially malignant melanoma. The focus of the recent experiments has not only been on their efficacy but also immune-related adverse events (irAEs). We report a case of fulminant hepatitis due to nivolumab. In this case, the patient had undergone long-term nivolumab therapy. He did not complain of any symptoms but his liver enzyme levels were extremely elevated (grade 4). We promptly decided to start oral corticosteroids in the patient. His liver function rapidly improved. The dose of corticosteroids was gradually reduced. Our case demonstrates that sudden onset fulminant hepatitis can occur despite the safe use of long-term nivolumab therapy. The irAE can improve rapidly with proper corticosteroid treatment. This report will be useful for the physicians who always use immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus as a Potential Mimicker of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sato Kenichiro , Kanzaki Mami , Ubara Yoshifumi , Uesaka Yoshikazu
Published: April 2017

The diagnosis of neurological symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is often challenging, in part because they sometimes mimic features of multiple sclerosis (MS). Herein we report a case of a young female who presented with relapsing-remitting symptoms of unilateral visual loss and motor aphasia. Additionally, radiological findings revealed multiple white matter lesions on her brain that led to an initial diagnosis of MS based on the established diagnostic criteria. However, she was eventually diagnosed with neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) presenting with extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion. Her ICA occlusion had not been detected for 2 months until she underwent magnetic resonance angiography. Although exact underlying pathological mechanisms are unclear, both the ICA occlusion and MS-like brain white matter lesions could be attributed to SLE. This case demonstrated that both of these lesions can coexist in the same patient, suggesting that NPSLE with ICA occlusion can be a potential mimicker of MS, and vice versa. Care must be paid to avoid delay in the diagnosis.
Transient Esotropia in the Child: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Allegrini Davide , Montesano Giovanni , Fogagnolo Paolo , Nocerino Elisabetta , De Cillà Stefano , Piozzi Elena , Rossetti Luca , Stefini Massimo , Pece Alfredo
Published: April 2017

The aim of this report is to investigate the possible causes of acute acquired onset of transient esotropia (AATE) in children and to help to differentiate ophthalmoplegic migraine (OM) from accommodative spasm (AS). A case of an 8-year-old Caucasian female affected by AATE and diplopia is described. The day before AATE onset, the patient complained of slight headache without nausea and vomiting, with spontaneous resolution. AATE diagnosis is challenging. The most likely ophthalmological causes of AATE are AS and OM. In these cases it is important to evaluate the presence of both a familial history of recurrent headaches and an AATE associated with migraine, ptosis, nausea, and vomiting. A full ophthalmological evaluation and a thorough refractive examination in cycloplegia are mandatory to exclude ophthalmological causes.
Entre as transformações nos modos de morar e as vicissitudes da habitação enquanto patrimônio imobiliário: como preservar o valor cultural da habitação?
Authors: Lefèvre José Eduardo De Assis
Published: April 2017

A preservação de construções residenciais constitui-se uma das questões mais complexas para os órgãos de preservação. Seja pela transitoriedade das formas de morar e hábitos de vida, seja pelo muito alto ou pelo muito baixo valor econômico-financeiro que apresentam. Quando se trata de edifícios institucionais é mais factível estabelecer bases e identificar interesses na sua preservação. Quando se trata de edifícios de propriedade coletiva, condominial, e também um edifício de notória qualidade arquitetônica, a preservação pode se viabilizar como uma forma de reconhecer e consolidar um patrimônio reconhecido pelos seus moradores e proprietários. É com as moradias unifamiliares que as dificuldades de preservação se avolumam. Em particular, se há intenção de manter o uso residencial. É fundamental que proprietários e responsáveis por bens de interesse cultural estejam convencidos e tenham interesse na sua valorização através da preservação.
Residências paulistanas entre as Grandes Guerras
Authors: D'Alambert Clara Correia
Published: April 2017

O texto tem como referência o estudo elaborado para a tese de doutorado relativa ao panorama da arquitetura residencial paulistana nos anos 1920 e 1930 – período conhecido como Entreguerras. Fora as residências e palacetes projetados para a elite paulistana por profissionais de renome e as habitações operárias e construções de uso misto, houve naquela época o surgimento de manifestações arquitetônicas residenciais provenientes da expressão da classe média da população que, pela sua alta incidência, tiveram presença marcante na paisagem urbana da capital paulista. Hoje, as residências remanescentes desse período compõem o patrimônio ambiental urbano da cidade. Essas casas são bens culturais significativos, pois mostram o estágio tecnológico e cultural alcançado por aquele grupo social, revelando também os costumes, as técnicas e os gostos estilísticos em voga. Assim, a partir da análise de uma amostragem representativa de projetos residenciais guardados no Arquivo Geral da Prefeitura de São Paulo, o estudo caracterizou a arquitetura predominante das residências de classe média, com foco nas inovações técnico-construtivas e suas implicações na melhoria da qualidade construtiva; nas soluções programáticas surgidas na época; e no repertório formal e estilístico daqueles anos – o neocolonial e depois o art déco – além de outras formas de expressão arquitetural, de caráter personalista.
More new rattans from New Guinea and the Solomon Islands (Calamus, Arecaceae)
Authors: BAKER WILLIAM J. , DRANSFIELD JOHN
Published: April 2017

As part of current research on the taxonomy of the palms (Arecaceae or Palmae) of New Guinea, ten new species of the rattan genus Calamus are described and illustrated here: Calamus baiyerensis, Calamus capillosus, Calamus erythrocarpus, Calamus heatubunii, Calamus jacobsii, Calamus katikii, Calamus kostermansii, Calamus papyraceus, Calamus pintaudii and Calamus superciliatus. An eleventh species, Calamus novae-georgii, from the neighbouring Solomon Islands is also included here. The palm flora of New Guinea now includes 62 species of Calamus, 34 of which have been described since 2002, demonstrating the remarkable scale of botanical discovery on the island.
Illustrated review of the leaf-mining Nepticulidae of the central Andes (Peru and Bolivia)
Authors: STONIS JONAS R. , DIŠKUS ARŪNAS , REMEIKIS ANDRIUS , KARSHOLT OLE , TORRES NIXON CUMBICUS
Published: April 2017

We review forty-five species of Nepticulidae (Lepidoptera) based on an analysis of samples collected in the central Andean region of Peru and Bolivia. Thirteen of these species are new to science, and are named and described here: Stigmella paracosma Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., S. expressa Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., S. acalyphae Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. lepida Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. misera Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. inca Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. eiffeli Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. arequipica Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., S. coronaria Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. azulella Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., S. sparsella Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., Manoneura forcipis Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov., and Acalyptris murex Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. Some of the central Andean species are recorded here as leaf-miners on Euphorbiaceae (Acalypha), Fabaceae (Collaea), Rosaceae (Polylepis), Malvaceae (Sida), Calceolariaceae (Calceolaria), Lamiaceae (Clinopodium), and Asteraceae (Ageratina and Trixis). We create eleven new species groups based on morphological characters designated in Stigmella and one in Acalyptris. A pictorial key to the species groups and distribution maps are provided. All new species are illustrated with 150 photographs and drawings of the adults and genitalia, and, where known and/or available, photographs of host-plants and leaf-mines.
Satellite-Based Characterization of Convective Growth and Glaciation and Its Relationship to Precipitation Formation over Central Europe
Authors: Senf Fabian , Deneke Hartwig
Published: April 2017

The growth phase of convective storms and their transition to maturity is investigated based on more than 100 cases selected from the years 2012–14 over central Europe. Dynamical growth properties as well as cloud-top glaciation and microphysical characteristics are derived from the SEVIRI imaging radiometer aboard the geostationary Meteosat satellites. In addition, onset and intensity of surface precipitation are related to growth and glaciation processes using observations from the radar network of the German Weather Service. The majority of analyzed cases shows a distinct maximum in cloud-top cooling rate, which is used here for temporal synchronization. Cloud growth spans a period of approximately half an hour. Glaciation rate indicators suggest that freezing 15 min prior to the maximum cooling plays an important role in invigorating convective updrafts through the release of latent heat. Smaller ice particles are found for larger cloud-top cooling, which provides observational evidence that ice particles form later and have less time to grow in stronger convective updrafts. Furthermore, maximum cloud-top height, anvil expansion rate, maximum precipitation intensity, and core size are found to be positively correlated. With respect to the onset of precipitation, this analysis shows a high probability that significant precipitation already occurs 30 min prior to maximum cloud-top cooling.
On the Dependence of Squall-Line Characteristics on Surface Conditions
Authors: Peters Karsten , Hohenegger Cathy
Published: April 2017

The influence of surface conditions in the form of changing surface temperatures on fully developed mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) is investigated using a cloud-system-resolving setup of the Icosahedral Nonhydrostatic (ICON) model (1-km grid spacing). The simulated MCSs take the form of squall lines with trailing stratiform precipitation. After the squall lines have reached a quasi-steady state, secondary convection is triggered ahead of the squall line, resulting in an increase of squall-line propagation speed, also known as discrete propagation. The higher propagation speed is then maintained for the remainder of the simulations because secondary convection ahead of the squall line acts to reduce the environmental wind shear over the depth of the squall line’s cold pool. The surface conditions have only a marginal effect on the squall lines themselves. This is so because the surface fluxes cannot significantly affect the cold pool, which is continuously replenished by midtropospheric air. The midtroposphere remains similar given the use of identical initial profiles. The only effect of the surface fluxes consists in an earlier acceleration of the squall line due to earlier initiation of secondary convection with higher surface temperature. Finally, a conceptual model to estimate the change in surface temperature needed to achieve a change in onset time of prefrontal secondary convection and the associated discrete propagation events given the environmental conditions is presented.
Summertime Planetary Wave Resonance in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres
Authors: Kornhuber K. , Petoukhov V. , Karoly D. , Petri S. , Rahmstorf S. , Coumou D.
Published: April 2017

Slow-moving planetary waves of high amplitudes are often associated with persistent surface weather conditions. This persistence can lead to extreme weather events with potentially serious implications for society and nature. Quasi-resonant amplification (QRA) of planetary waves has been proposed as a mechanism to generate high-amplitude hemisphere-wide patterns of wavenumbers 6–8 in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) summer. Here this mechanism is studied in both hemispheres. Analyzing 1979–2015 reanalysis data, evidence for QRA in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) is found for wavenumbers 4 and 5. It is shown that the difference in resonating wavenumbers between hemispheres stems from the different magnitude and latitudinal shape of the respective zonal-mean zonal winds. During resonance events a strong and narrow jet is observed in both hemispheres, whereas the emergence of a second zonal mean jet at high latitudes (i.e., a “double jet”) is seen in the NH only. Strong and narrow jets can form stable, zonally oriented waveguides, which are an essential prerequisite for resonance. After investigating the waves’ preferred phase positions during QRA, a bimodal behavior is identified for wavenumbers 4 and 5 in the SH and for wavenumber 6 in the NH, whereas wavenumbers 7 and 8 exhibit a single preferred phase position in the NH. Composite plots of meridional wind and temperature anomalies during periods when the resonating wave is in the preferred phase position indicate those regions that are most likely to experience heat extremes. These regions include western North America, western Europe, and central Eurasia in the NH and Patagonia and Australia in the SH.
The Stratospheric Changes Inferred from 10 Years of AIRS and AMSU-A Radiances
Authors: Pan Fang , Huang Xianglei , Leroy Stephen S. , Lin Pu , Strow L. Larrabee , Ming Yi , Ramaswamy V.
Published: April 2017

Global-mean radiances observed by the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) and the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit A (AMSU-A) are analyzed from 2003 to 2012. The focus of this study is on channels sensitive to emission and absorption in the stratosphere. Optimal fingerprinting is used to obtain estimates of changes of stratospheric temperature in five vertical layers due to external forcing in the presence of natural variability. Natural variability is estimated using synthetic radiances based on the 500-yr GFDL CM3 and 240-yr HadGEM2-CC control runs. The results show a cooling rate of 0.65 ± 0.11 (2σ) K decade−1 in the upper stratosphere above 6 hPa, approximately 0.46 ± 0.24 K decade−1 in two midstratospheric layers between 6 and 30 hPa, and 0.39 ± 0.32 K decade−1 in the lower stratosphere (30–60 hPa). The cooling rate in the lowest part of the stratosphere (60–100 hPa) is −0.014 ± 0.22 K decade−1, which is smallest among all five layers and statistically insignificant. The synergistic use of well-calibrated passive infrared and microwave radiances permits disambiguation of trends of carbon dioxide and stratospheric temperature, increases vertical resolution of detected stratospheric temperature trends, and effectively reduces uncertainties of estimated temperature trends.
“Just Doing a Favor for a Friend”: The Social Supply of Ecstasy Through Friendship Networks
Authors: Bright David A. , Sutherland Rachel
Published: April 2017

The current project focused on the “not for profit” supply of illicit drugs within social networks. The aims of the study were to (a) explore the characteristics of social supply of ecstasy and the typical ways in which social dealing occurs, and (b) explore the benefits of social supply as perceived by those who engage in social supply. Overall, the results suggest that social supply of ecstasy occurs in dense, closely knit friendship networks and that mutual supply may be common. Users within friendship networks source ecstasy independently and concurrently supply to members of the group to ensure consistent supply of quality product and to minimize risks of health harms and criminal justice consequences. Social dealing produces little or no financial profit, yet the majority of participants in this study purchased ecstasy in amounts that expose them to significant criminal justice penalties.
Census data is never enough: How to make visible the religious diversity in Mexico
Authors: Gutiérrez Zúñiga Cristina , De La Torre Castellanos Renée
Published: April 2017

Since 1895, the Population and Housing Census of Mexico has included the variable ‘religious affiliation’, and this helped to affirm the monopoly of the Catholic religion. In the new millennium, the dynamics of religious diversification of recent decades required a change of design in order to capture the new situation, making religious minorities visible in a way that would propitiate a culture of pluralism. To this end, a team of researchers worked together to capture the diversity of religions in Mexico for the 2010 census. In this article we shall describe: a) the methodological strategies developed to improve the census classifier, and a critique of its achievements in capturing the diversity of religious affiliations and memberships in Mexico; b) the need to combine a quantitative approach to religious affiliation with qualitative approaches to religious self-identification in order to describe and analyze religious deinstitutionalization and individualization tendencies, applying questionnaires to representative samples of the population.
Cult books revisited
Authors: Peters Ted
Published: April 2017

The quiet 1966 publication of Issues in Science and Religion by Ian G. Barbour became the blueprint from which, now a half century later, an entire bridge discipline has been constructed. That discipline is known as ‘Science and Religion’ or, sometimes, ‘Theology and Science’. Rather than see science and theology as in conflict or even independent from one another, Barbour built the bridge for dialogue and even integration. Today’s scholars cross that bridge daily. So, in this article we ask: just how was that bridge constructed?
Practice-led theology
Authors: Byrne Libby
Published: April 2017

This article explains the development of a practice-led systematic theological enquiry and considers how reflexive studio practice can offer a means of engaging material and embodied knowing in the pursuit of a theological question. It considers the influence of the studio in the art-making process with particular reference to the work of Andy Warhol, Ai Weiwei and Anselm Kiefer. The article explores the agency of the studio in the development of the author’s own practice-led theological enquiry into the nature of healing in the absence of cure. This leads to a discussion about the function of the studio for artists whose contemplative practice resides on the boundaries between art and theology and a conclusion about the role of the studio as a site for theology in the making.
Touts and the Control of Facilities in ‘Bleeding’ Harare: A Theoretical Explanation of the Dynamics of Corruption in an African City
Authors: Chirisa Innocent
Published: April 2017

This article explores the issue of urban management in the face of ‘informal’ or illegal commercial practices in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe. It captures the deep-rooted presence of touts who have, for years now, been controlling public spaces of terminals in Harare’s Central Business District. The article is based on narratives from newspapers, radio and comments by stakeholders and aided by theoretical explanations derived from literature review. The western theory of travelling does not differ much from that of Africa only in so much increasing ‘informality’ has distorted it greatly. It has been noted that the major problem is an institutional one yet, the mismanagement of space has overarching challenges for different stakeholders of the city, including passengers and commuter omnibus operators. The article concludes by saying that without the necessary back-up systems, it is a waste of time and resources to embark on aggressive clean-up campaigns of the city. In this case, Harare has no option but to fully ‘capitalise’ its management and develop control mechanisms if the unruliness and distortions posed by touts is to be curbed substantially.
Jesus, Barabbas and the People: The Climax of Luke’s Trial Narrative and Lukan Christology (Luke 23.13-25)
Authors: Cuany Monique
Published: April 2017

This article argues that the nuance and function given to the Barabbas pericope in Luke’s trial narrative differs signifcantly from that expressed by the other evangelists. It submits that Luke depicts Jesus’ death to be the result of a substitution between the acquitted Jesus and the insurrectionist and murderer Barabbas. Furthermore, the third evangelist has crafted his trial narrative so as to highlight the representative nature of this death, thereby developing Jesus’ narrative identity as the Messiah. It is concluded that Luke’s crafting of his trial narrative raises questions for the prevalent view that the third evangelist has not integrated the idea of substitution into his understanding of Jesus’ death.
Food Insecurity and Depression Among Adults With Diabetes: Results From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
Authors: Montgomery Joshua , Lu Juan , Ratliff Scott , Mezuk Briana
Published: April 2017

Purpose

While both food insecurity and depression have been linked to risk of type 2 diabetes, little is known about the relationship between food insecurity and depression among adults with diabetes.

Research Design and Methods

Cross-sectional analyses of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011-2014), a nationally representative, population-based survey. Analytic sample was limited to adults aged ≥20 with diabetes determined by either fasting plasma glucose (≥126 mg/dL) or self-report (n = 1724) and adults age ≥20 with prediabetes determined by fasting plasma glucose (100-125 mg/dL) or self-report (n = 2004). Food insecurity was measured using the US Food Security Survey Module. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between food insecurity and depression while accounting for sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviors.

Results

Approximately 10% of individuals with diabetes and 8.5% of individuals with prediabetes had severe food insecurity in the past year; an additional 20.3% of individuals with diabetes and 14.3% of those with prediabetes had mild food insecurity. Among individuals with diabetes, both mild and severe food insecurity were associated with elevated odds of depression These relationships were similar in magnitude among individuals with prediabetes.

Conclusions

Food insecurity is significantly associated with depressive symptoms in people with diabetes and prediabetes. Results point to the need to address economic issues in conjunction with psychosocial issues for comprehensive diabetes care.
The Art of Lying in King David's Court
Authors: Matthews Victor H.
Published: April 2017

While telling lies is only one form of deceptive discourse, all deceptions depend upon managing the message. That in turn suggests the possibility of a wide spectrum of potentially benign or harmful consequences based on these interactions ranging from simple embarrassment to physical endangerment. In the examination of affairs at King David's royal court, using Interpersonal Deception Theory (IDT), it will be demonstrated that a great deal of both verbal and physical infighting occurs. And, among the strategies utilized by the competitors for power, various forms of deception are skillfully employed by the characters in these narratives.
The Identity Threat of Weight Stigma in Adolescents
Authors: Hand Wren B. , Robinson Jennifer C. , Stewart Mary W. , Zhang Lei , Hand Samuel C.
Published: April 2017

Obesity remains a serious public health issue in adolescents, who may be subjected to weight stigma leading to increased stress and poor health outcomes. Stigma can be detrimental to adolescents during self-identity formation. The purpose of this study was to examine weight stigma in adolescents in light of the Identity Threat Model of Stigma. A cross-sectional correlational design was used to examine the relationships among the variables of weight stigma, psychosocial stress, coping styles, disordered eating, and physical inactivity. Regression modeling and path analysis were used to analyze the data. Over 90% of the sample had scores indicating weight stigma or antifat bias. Avoidant coping style and psychosocial stress predicted disordered eating. The strongest path in the model was from avoidant coping to disordered eating. The Identity Threat Model of Stigma partially explained adolescents’ weight stigma. Nursing practice implications are discussed.
Does the EQ-5D capture the concerns measured by the Palliative care Outcome Scale? Mapping the Palliative care Outcome Scale onto the EQ-5D using statistical methods
Authors: Dzingina Mendwas D , McCrone Paul , Higginson Irene J
Published: April 2017

Background:

The main measure to generate utility data for economic evaluations is the EQ-5D, but no study has tested whether or how to map from palliative care measures to the EQ-5D.

Aims:

To assess the level of conceptual overlap between palliative outcomes and the EQ-5D, and the feasibility of mapping between them to obtain utilities for the Palliative care Outcome Scale.

Design:

A cross-sectional secondary analysis of data from three studies.

Setting/participants:

Patients receiving palliative care and bereaved relatives, recruited from three tertiary National Health Service hospitals in South London.

Methods:

The overlap between both measures was assessed using principal component analysis. The Palliative care Outcome Scale was mapped onto the EQ-5D using three regression models.

Results:

Spearman’s correlations between both instruments were low (mean rho = 0.11). The principal component analysis showed the Palliative care Outcome Scale is associated with only two EQ-5D dimensions (pain; and anxiety/depression). No Palliative care Outcome Scale items loaded onto the mobility, self-care and usual activities dimensions of the EQ-5D. The mapping models performed poorly at predicting utilities from Palliative care Outcome Scale data (mean absolute error >0.3 and R2 <0.10). Hence, none of the models can be recommended as acceptable for calculating utilities from Palliative care Outcome Scale responses.

Conclusion:

Differences between the Palliative care Outcome Scale and the EQ-5D do not undermine the qualities of either instrument when used for their own purposes. However, due to conceptual differences, the EQ-5D does not capture some of the concerns measured by the Palliative care Outcome Scale, and therefore, mapping onto the EQ-5D is unlikely to provide an appropriate basis for estimating utilities for conducting economic evaluations in palliative care studies.
Peer-Assessed Emotional Expressivity: Unique Association With Status in the Peer Group
Authors: Kwon Kyongboon , Willenbrink Jessica B. , Hanrahan Amanda R.
Published: April 2017

We examined the association between peer-assessed emotional expressivity and children’s status in the peer group after controlling for social behavior. Participants were 417 elementary school children ([Formula: see text] age = 10 years) from a Midwestern urban community and their teachers. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used. After controlling for gender, race, and other emotionality, happiness was positively associated with likability and popularity. Sadness was positively associated with disliking and unpopularity, and negatively associated with popularity. Anger was positively associated with disliking and popularity. Overall, emotional expressivity uniquely predicted status after controlling for social behavior. Regarding gender and race effects, girls were perceived as happier than boys and an inverse pattern was found for anger; White children were perceived as happier than Black children. The association between emotionality and status did not differ by gender. Findings expand the literature on predictability of peer-assessed emotions regarding different dimensions of status in the peer group.
Gene set enrichment analysis: A genome-wide expression profile-based strategy for discovering functional microRNA–disease relationships
Authors: Ni Yin , Song Caiyun , Jin Shuqing , Chen Zhoufeng , Ni Ming , Han Lu , Wu Jiansheng , Jin Yin
Published: April 2017

Objective

To explore stable and functional microRNA (miRNA)–disease relationships using a genome-wide expression profile pattern matching strategy.

Methods

We applied the ranked microarray pattern matching strategy Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to identify miRNA permutations with similar expression patterns to diseases. We also used quantitative reverse transcription PCR to validate the predicted expression levels of miRNAs in three diseases: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), oesophageal cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Results

We found that hsa-miR-200 c was upregulated more than 40-fold in oesophageal cancer. The expression of miR-16 and miR-124 was not consistently upregulated in IBD or colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that this expression profile matching strategy can be used to identify functional miRNA–disease relationships.
Sirolimus coating on heparinized stents prevents restenosis and thrombosis
Authors: Bae In-Ho , Lim Kyung Seob , Park Dae Sung , Shim Jae-Won , Lee So-Youn , Jang Eun-Jae , Park Jun-Kyu , Kim Ju-Han , Jeong Myung Ho
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of sirolimus coating on the occurrence of restenosis and thrombosis with heparinized stents. Heparin and dopamine were conjugated by chemical bonding and anchored on the stent surface by a mussel-inspired adhesion mechanism. Subsequently, sirolimus was coated with poly lactic-glycolic acid on the heparinized stent surface. The heparin was well attached to the surface, and the surface was smooth after sirolimus coating. The smoothness of the surface was maintained after expansion of the stent. The amount of sirolimus released from the stent was 67.3% ± 4.55% within 7 days, followed by continual release up to day 28. The proliferation of smooth muscle cells was successfully arrested (51.3% ± 2.25% at 7 days of culture) by sirolimus released from the stent. Platelet adhesion was clearly prevented in the heparin-coated group (78.0 ± 8.00/1.8 cm2) compared to that in the heparin noncoated group (5.0 ± 1.00/1.8 cm2). Animal studies showed that the heparin and sirolimus-coated stent group had no obvious inflammatory response and no change in the fibrin score compared to those in the other groups. However, restenosis clearly decreased in the heparin and sirolimus-coated group (12.3% ± 3.54%) compared to the bare-metal stent group (27.5% ± 8.52%) and the heparin-coated group (25.3% ± 11.79%). These results suggest that heparinized surface-based sirolimus coating may be a useful approach for the prevention of restenosis and stent thrombosis.
Meaning and Symbolism in Bridal Costumes in Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Tawfiq Wijdan , Marcketti Sara
Published: April 2017

The western region of Saudi Arabia has its own unique traditional bridal garments. Little is known about these bridal costumes because they are handmade by a few families in the region. The purpose of this study was to investigate the history, significance, and meaning of the Hijazi bridal costumes. Symbolic interactionism was the theoretical starting point of this study. Qualitative data were collected via in-depth interviews from 22 married Saudi women. A purposive, snowball sampling strategy was used. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman process. Four key themes emerged including (a) physical appearance and process of wearing the costumes, (b) meanings and beliefs related to the costumes’ components, (c) appropriate occasions during which the costumes could be worn, and (d) motivation negotiated within families. The Hijazi bridal costumes have deep historical roots in Saudi culture, which continues to play a significant role in today’s marriage rituals.
Black women’s intersectional complexities
Authors: Curtis Sharon
Published: April 2017

Recent educational literature has produced a plethora of gendered experiences encountered by women working towards leadership positions in education. Gender plays a complex role that shapes the relationship between perceived ideals of womanhood and leadership. This paper focuses on the variations in leadership and management distributed in the early years and the competencies needed in areas of socio-economic deprivation. The paper has focused on the findings taken from a research study (2014) that involved the lived experience of eight black women leaders within the UK. The study by Curtis (published 2014, see text for details) highlights a number of demanding complexities that do include gendered assumptions relating to the role of leadership within educational establishments. These issues pertain to certain identifying factors, such as a leader’s accent or choice of dress and traditional hairstyles (e.g. braids, afro, dreads or weaves). Alongside women’s choice of food, including any personal dietary requirements linked to religious beliefs, are areas that identify black women leaders with identities separate from those dominant within society. Such ideals may include a prescriptive view of women as leaders. The road to leadership demands a crescendo of shared voices and visions that support the diversity in the expression of women’s values, shaped by their perception, intuitive lenses, worldviews and lived experiences. This paper is intended to present black women’s intersections as one in which black women share skilfully their biculturalism and their abilities to act as a bridge for others sharing their cultural competencies.
Policy implementation in the era of accelerating projectification: Synthesizing Matland’s conflict–ambiguity model and research on temporary organizations
Authors: Jensen Christian , Johansson Staffan , Löfström Mikael
Published: April 2017

It has become increasingly common to use the project as a form of organization when implementing public policies. Previous research has identified political, administrative and organizational motives behind this trend towards more project-based organizations within the public administration. The problem is that project-based organization carries inherent problems and special challenges when these projects are supposed to be implemented in permanent agencies and organizations. The purpose of this paper is to identify problems and challenges that public administrations face when ‘the project organization’ is used as a structural form of organization in implementing different kinds of public policies. The article takes its starting point in the policy implementation research and especially in Matland’s conflict-ambiguity model. This research tradition is complemented by a review of research on temporary organizations, which draws attention to some inherent and significant characteristics of project organizations, that is the concepts of entity, relationship and time. Our analysis shows that the use of project organization puts special demands on the players involved, and if these are not taken into account, there is a high risk that projects designed to bring about social change will not produce the effects that policymakers and citizens expect.