bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A História da Música De Ribeirão Preto (SP) Através de Arquivos de Músicos e Corporações
Authors: Haddad Gisele Laura
Published: December 2015

Durante o processo da investigação para o mestrado “Orquestra Sinfônica de Ribeirão Preto: Representações e Significado Social” (HADDAD, 2009), localizamos diversos arquivos pessoais de músicos, exmúsicos e corporações de Ribeirão Preto. Com os entraves de acesso superados, verificamos que muito da história da cidade está com a população, dentro das casas, nos álbuns de família, nas cartas e recortes de jornais, documentação pessoal, de imprensa, iconográfica, bem como manuscritos e impressos musicais entre outros documentos, muitos deles até então inexplorados. Este artigo apresenta o projeto de doutorado que tem como objetivo principal o levantamento de fontes históricas das atividades musicais, desde a fundação da cidade em 1856 até meados da década de 1980, através dos acervos pessoais dos acervos de: Aluísio da Cruz Prates (1931), Belmácio Pousa Godinho (1892-1980), Conegundes Rangel, Edmundo Russomanno (1893-1963), Francisco de Assis Barros, também conhecido como Cônego Barros (1894-1942), Franklin Guedes Carneiro Filho, Gaetano Baccega, Homero de Sá Barreto (1884-1924), Ignácio Stábile (1889- 1955), José Delfino Machado, José dos Reis Miranda Filho (1901-1956), José Luiz Baldo (1909-2010) e Manoel da Silva (1896-1963). Tais acervos e demais documentos relativos à história da música de Ribeirão Preto estão depositados em residências da cidade e nos arquivos locais (Arquivo do Museu do Café de Ribeirão Preto, Centro de Documentação “Memória Musical Brasileira” da FFCLRP/USP, Departamento de Música da UNAERP, Arquivo Histórico da Orquestra Sinfônica de Ribeirão Preto e Arquivo Público Histórico Municipal de Ribeirão Preto). Para esta pesquisa são considerados aspectos histórico-musicológicos em suas evidentes implicações culturais e sociais. O levantamento de todos esses dados abre caminho para a compreensão da movimentação musical como característica dos significados sociais que a música exercia, dando parâmetros para o estudo da história da música local. Por conseguinte, estabelecemos conceitos para a discussão teórica: o conjunto de características e circunstâncias sociais que distinguem a sociedade e a tradição musical da cidade de Ribeirão Preto.
Cardiomyocyte VEGF Regulates Endothelial Cell GPIHBP1 to Relocate Lipoprotein Lipase to the Coronary Lumen During Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chiu Amy Pei-Ling , Wan Andrea , Lal Nathaniel , Zhang Dahai , Wang Fulong , Vlodavsky Israel , Hussein Bahira , Rodrigues Brian
Published: December 2015

Objective—

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL)–mediated triglyceride hydrolysis is the major source of fatty acid for cardiac energy. LPL, synthesized in cardiomyocytes, is translocated across endothelial cells (EC) by its transporter glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high-density lipoprotein–binding protein 1 (GPIHBP1). Previously, we have reported an augmentation in coronary LPL, which was linked to an increased expression of GPIHBP1 following moderate diabetes mellitus. We examined the potential mechanism by which hyperglycemia amplifies GPIHBP1.

Approach and Results—

Exposure of rat aortic EC to high glucose induced GPIHBP1 expression and amplified LPL shuttling across these cells. This effect coincided with an elevated secretion of heparanase. Incubation of EC with high glucose or latent heparanase resulted in secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Primary cardiomyocytes, being a rich source of VEGF, when cocultured with EC, restored EC GPIHBP1 that is lost because of cell passaging. Furthermore, recombinant VEGF induced EC GPIHBP1 mRNA and protein expression within 24 hours, an effect that could be prevented by a VEGF neutralizing antibody. This VEGF-induced increase in GPIHBP1 was through Notch signaling that encompassed Delta-like ligand 4 augmentation and nuclear translocation of the Notch intracellular domain. Finally, cardiomyocytes from severely diabetic animals exhibiting attenuation of VEGF were unable to increase EC GPIHBP1 expression and had lower LPL activity at the vascular lumen in perfused hearts.

Conclusion—

EC, as the first responders to hyperglycemia, can release heparanase to liberate myocyte VEGF. This growth factor, by activating EC Notch signaling, is responsible for facilitating GPIHBP1-mediated translocation of LPL across EC and regulating LPL-derived fatty acid delivery to the cardiomyocytes.
Prediction of Early Arterial Recanalization and Tissue Fate in the Selection of Patients With the Greatest Potential to Benefit From Intravenous Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator
Authors: Leiva-Salinas Carlos , Patrie James T. , Xin Wenjun , Michel Patrik , Jovin Tudor , Wintermark Max
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Our objective is to determine the performance of the combination of likelihood of arterial recanalization and tissue fate to predict functional clinical outcome in patients with acute stroke.

Methods—

Clinical, imaging, and outcome data were collected in 173 patients with acute ischemic stroke who presented within 4.5 hours from symptom onset, in the time window eligible for intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator. Imaging data included Alberta Score Program Early Computed Tomographic Score (ASPECTS), site of occlusion, volume of ischemic core and penumbra, and recanalization. Outcome data consisted of modified Rankin Scale score at 90 days. We classified patients based on their baseline imaging characteristics and treatment with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (yes/no) according to 5 different hypothetical prognostic algorithms: (1) based on whether patients received intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator, (2) based on ASPECTS, (3) based on the site of occlusion, (4) based on volume of ischemic core and penumbra, and (5) based on a matrix of predicted recanalization and volume of ischemic core and penumbra. We compared the performance of such algorithms to predict good clinical outcome, defined as modified Rankin Scale score of ≤2 at 90 days.

Results—

One hundred and twenty-four patients received intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator; 49 did not. In the group that was treated, 46 (37%) had good outcome as opposed to 38.7% in the nontreated. The algorithm that combined the prediction of recanalization with the volume of ischemic core and penumbra showed the highest accuracy to predict good outcome (77.7%) as opposed to others (range, 43.9%–57.2%)

Conclusions—

The combination of predicted recanalization and tissue fate proved superior to prognosticate good clinical outcome when compared with other usual predictors.
Pupil Diameter Tracks the Exploration–Exploitation Trade-off during Analogical Reasoning and Explains Individual Differences in Fluid Intelligence
Authors: Hayes Taylor R. , Petrov Alexander A.
Published: December 2015

The ability to adaptively shift between exploration and exploitation control states is critical for optimizing behavioral performance. Converging evidence from primate electrophysiology and computational neural modeling has suggested that this ability may be mediated by the broad norepinephrine projections emanating from the locus coeruleus (LC) [Aston-Jones, G., & Cohen, J. D. An integrative theory of locus coeruleus-norepinephrine function: Adaptive gain and optimal performance. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 28, 403–450, 2005]. There is also evidence that pupil diameter covaries systematically with LC activity. Although imperfect and indirect, this link makes pupillometry a useful tool for studying the locus coeruleus norepinephrine system in humans and in high-level tasks. Here, we present a novel paradigm that examines how the pupillary response during exploration and exploitation covaries with individual differences in fluid intelligence during analogical reasoning on Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Pupillometry was used as a noninvasive proxy for LC activity, and concurrent think-aloud verbal protocols were used to identify exploratory and exploitative solution periods. This novel combination of pupillometry and verbal protocols from 40 participants revealed a decrease in pupil diameter during exploitation and an increase during exploration. The temporal dynamics of the pupillary response was characterized by a steep increase during the transition to exploratory periods, sustained dilation for many seconds afterward, and followed by gradual return to baseline. Moreover, the individual differences in the relative magnitude of pupillary dilation accounted for 16% of the variance in Advanced Progressive Matrices scores. Assuming that pupil diameter is a valid index of LC activity, these results establish promising preliminary connections between the literature on locus coeruleus norepinephrine-mediated cognitive control and the literature on analogical reasoning and fluid intelligence.
Reduction of Dual-task Costs by Noninvasive Modulation of Prefrontal Activity in Healthy Elders
Authors: Manor Brad , Zhou Junhong , Jor'dan Azizah , Zhang Jue , Fang Jing , Pascual-Leone Alvaro
Published: December 2015

Dual tasking (e.g., walking or standing while performing a cognitive task) disrupts performance in one or both tasks, and such dual-task costs increase with aging into senescence. Dual tasking activates a network of brain regions including pFC. We therefore hypothesized that facilitation of prefrontal cortical activity via transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) would reduce dual-task costs in older adults. Thirty-seven healthy older adults completed two visits during which dual tasking was assessed before and after 20 min of real or sham tDCS targeting the left pFC. Trials of single-task standing, walking, and verbalized serial subtractions were completed, along with dual-task trials of standing or walking while performing serial subtractions. Dual-task costs were calculated as the percent change in markers of gait and postural control and serial subtraction performance, from single to dual tasking. Significant dual-task costs to standing, walking, and serial subtraction performance were observed before tDCS (p < .01). These dual-task costs were less after real tDCS as compared with sham tDCS as well as compared with either pre-tDCS condition (p < .03). Further analyses indicated that tDCS did not alter single task performance but instead improved performance solely within dual-task conditions (p < .02). These results demonstrate that dual tasking can be improved by modulating prefrontal activity, thus indicating that dual-task decrements are modifiable and may not necessarily reflect an obligatory consequence of aging. Moreover, tDCS may ultimately serve as a novel approach to preserving dual-task capacity into senescence.
Judicial Interpretation and Indigenous Peoples’ Rights to Lands, Participation and Consultation. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights’ Approach
Authors: Fuentes Alejandro
Published: December 2015

This article proposes a critical legal analysis of the jurisprudence of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights regarding indigenous peoples’ rights to lands, participation, and consultation. It focuses on the role that cultural diversity as a legal standard has played in the recognition of the indigenous peoples’ right to consultation and participation in all matters that directly affect them, as a guarantee for the protection of their right to communal property and natural resources traditionally used, and for safeguarding their cultural identity. In analysing the jurisprudence of the Inter-American Court, special attention is paid to the interpretative methods applied by the regional tribunal, and to the manner in which a non-restrictive and ‘culturally friendly’ interpretation of conventionally protected human rights has contributed to the enlargement of their scope of protection, and to their enjoyment by one of the most marginalized and excluded sectors of Latin-American societies.
Spoken Code-Switching in Written Form? Manifestation of Code-Switching in Computer Mediated Communication
Authors: Barasa Sandra
Published: December 2015

Code-switching (cs) is a common occurrence in spoken language among bilingual and multilingual language speakers. This makes its use a customary practice in Computer Mediated Communication (cmc) genres as used by such speakers. This study examines instances of Code-switching in the Computer Mediated Communication data collected in order to find out whether code-switching in cmc is equivalent to code-switching in spoken language in terms of spontaneity, motivation and discourse functions. The study is based on previous studies in code-switching, for example, Gumperz (1982), and Myers-Scotton (1992). These studies point to the fact that code-switching in spoken language can be “conscious and deliberate” when it is motivated by various factors. The examined cmc data is derived from Kenyan University students and is in form of messages from various cmc genres including sms text messages, e-mail, Instant Messages and Social Network Sites such as Facebook and YouTube. The languages in focus are Swahili, English and vernacular languages which are spoken in Kenya. The findings suggest that although code-switching in cmc is to some extent similar to spoken code-switching in terms of language manifestation and deliberateness, its discourse functions reveal features that are specific to cmc contexts. The study concludes that code-switching in cmc should be viewed and treated as a unique and distinct entity from spoken-code-switching in order to capture its inherent attributes.
Mixed Copying in Blogs: Evidence from Estonian-Russian Language Contacts
Authors: Verschik Anna
Published: December 2015

The paper applies the Code Copying Framework (ccf) to Estonian-Russian language contacts in Live Journal blogs. The nature of blogs (an asynchronous, more written-like genre) allows us to look into individual multilingual practices and to discover aspects of contact-induced change that are absent in oral communication (choice of script, rendition of other-language items etc). ccf distinguishes between global copying (akin to code-switching/borrowing in other frameworks), selective copying (phenomena in morphosyntax, semantics etc) and mixed copying. The latter means that one component of a complex item is a global copy and the other a selective one and occurs in multi-word items (compounds, constructions, analytic forms, idioms). Six types of mixed copies are analysed. It is argued that this type of copying requires closer attention because 1) it demonstrates what is perceived as a collocation or multiword unit by a multilingual user; 2) it contributes to the understanding of meaning (semantically specific components are likely to be copied globally; 3) it is in accordance with notions in cognitive linguistics (compositionality, blending).
An often overlooked Rule of the Code, and its bearing on the authorship and date of the nomen Proteidae (Amphibia, Urodela)

Authors: Dubois Alain , Ohler Annemarie
Published: December 2015

Article 11.7.1.1 of the Code states that, to be available, a new zoological family-series (‘family-group’) nomen must be based, not only on an available generic nomen, but also on one used as valid in the newly erected family-series taxon. This Rule is ignored by many practising taxonomists, which may have deleterious consequences in zoological nomenclature. This is stressed here by the analysis of five cases where it applies in the group of recent amphibians, for the nomina or spellings Calamitae, Systomata, Pelodryadidae, Dicroglossini, and particularly that of the salamander family Proteidae: it is shown that the nomen that has been considered as valid for this family for almost two centuries is not nomenclaturally available and should be replaced by a much more obscure one. Fortunately, Article 23.9 on reversal of precedence allows to validate this nomen, but credited to a subsequent author and date. It is suggested that a similar survey and analysis of the family-series nomenclature of other zoological groups might disclose similar nomenclatural problems that have been overlooked until now.
On the original description of the Sacred Shrew, Sorex religiosa I. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1826 [nec 1827] (Mammalia: Soricidae)

Authors: Woodman Neal
Published: December 2015

The original description of the Egyptian Pygmy Shrew or Sacred Shrew, Sorex religiosus I. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire (Mammalia: Soricidae: Crocidura religiosa), was based on mummies obtained by Joseph Passalacqua from the ancient Egyptian necropolis at Thebes, Egypt. The description and naming of this species is commonly credited to Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire’s (1827) compendium and review of shrews in the Mémoires du Muséum d’Histoire naturelle. However, this author also described this species in two earlier publications. The first was in a footnote to Passalacqua’s (1826) Catalogue raisonné et historique des antiquités découvertes en Égypte; the second in January 1827 in the 11th volume of the Dictionnaire classique d’Histoire naturelle. In each case, he explained what he considered to be the distinguishing characteristics of the species and presented its common and scientific names. Priority, therefore, goes to Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire’s description in Passalacqua’s (1826) Catalogue.
The world upside down: the first Kefersteinia (Orchidaceae: Zygopetalinae) with non-resupinate flowers
Authors: Carnevali Germán , Cetzal-Ix William , Tapia-Muñoz José L. , Romero-González Gustavo A.
Published: December 2015

A new species of Kefersteinia (Orchidaceae, Zygopetalinae), K. carolorum, from the state of Táchira, Venezuela, is herein described, illustrated, and characterized based on morphological features. Kefersteinia carolorum is similar to K. lactea from Costa Rica, but it differs in the non-resupinate flowers and the longer callus. The labellum in the upper-most position that distinguishes this species is unique in the genus but has evolved independently in Zygopetalinae at least three times. Evolutionary, ecological, and functional implications of this character are explored. The conservation status of the new taxon is assessed as DD according to IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) criteria. We also provide a key to identify the genera of the Zygopetalinae with labellum in an upper-most position. In addition, we offer a key for the Kefersteinia species from Venezuela, a figure, and a map showing their geographical distributions.
New taxa of Zapoteca (Leguminosae, Mimosoideae) from Mexico
Authors: Hernández Héctor M.
Published: December 2015

Two new species and one subspecies of Mexican Zapoteca (Leguminosae, Mimosoideae) are described and mapped. Zapoteca balsasensis, endemic to Guerrero, is characterized by having leafless portions of the branchlets bearing persistent stipules, whereas Z. cruzii, also from Guerrero, is distinguished by its ability of producing adventitious roots on the stem nodes. Zapoteca formosa subsp. sinaloana, endemic to Sinaloa, differs by its narrowly-oblong leaflets, which contrast with the oblong-obovate to widely obovate leaflets in the other subspecies. For the three taxa, information on their geographic range, habitat and hypotetical taxonomic affinities are provided.
Introduction to the systematics and biodiversity of eels (orders Anguilliformes and Saccopharyngiformes) of Taiwan
Authors: HO HSUAN-CHING , McCOSKER JOHN E. , SMITH DAVID G. , SHAO KWANG-TSAO
Published: December 2015

The eel fauna (orders Anguilliformes and Saccopharyngiformes) of Taiwan is one of the richest in the world. Recent genetic and morphological studies have improved the taxonomic resolution and increased the known diversity of the eels of Taiwan, and the overall diversity is comparable to that of adjacent marine zoogeographic regions with rich biodiversity, such as Australia and the Philippines. In this special issue, we verified the historical records and examined numerous recently collected specimens, and conclude that the eel fauna of Taiwan is represented by 207 species in 75 genera and 14 families, with several undescribed species still likely to be discovered. The Muraenidae (71 species), Ophichthidae (60), Congridae (29) and Synaphobranchidae (17) are the most abundant and species-rich in Taiwanese waters. We add 42 species to the Taiwanese fish fauna, including one new genus and 13 new species. Two further species are newly described, one from the Philippines and one from Indonesia.
Three new species of the genus Chlopsis (Anguilliformes: Chlopsidae) from the Indo-Pacific
Authors: TIGHE KENNETH A. , POGONOSKI JOHN J. , HIBINO YUSUKE , HO HSUAN-CHING , NGUYEN QUAN VAN
Published: December 2015

Three new species of false moray eels belonging to the genus Chlopsis, family Chlopsidae, are described and illustrated. Chlopsis sagmacollaris, from Western Australia, is characterized by its distinct color pattern with a unique dark saddle on the nape and paler body pigmentation than all other congeners. Chlopsis nanhaiensis, from Taiwan, has a bicolored body with its dorsal-fin origin behind a vertical through posterior margin of gill opening. These characters are shared with C. apterus, C. bicolor, C. bidentatus and C. orientalis sp. nov., but C. nanhaiensis has fewer total vertebrae than other bicolored species (ca. 120 in C. nanhaiensis vs. 125–140 in other four species). Chlopsis orientalis, from Vietnam, is distinguished from all other congeners except C. bicolor by its simple bicolored body, head length (ca. 10 % of total length), position of dorsal-fin origin (distinctly behind a vertical through posterior margin of gill opening), and counts of preanal and total vertebrae (35 and 135). Although C. orientalis resembles C. bicolor in meristics and morphometrics, it differs in its pigmentation and possession of stouter intermuscular bones. These new species represent the first records of the genus Chlopsis from the northwestern Pacific Ocean and the eastern Indian Ocean.
A new species of Neenchelys (Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae: Myrophinae) from the eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: HIBINO YUSUKE , SATAPOOMIN UKKRIT , KIMURA SEISHI
Published: December 2015

A new worm eel, Neenchelys andamanensis, is described based on a single specimen collected from a depth of 520–531 m, Andaman Sea, eastern Indian Ocean. The new species is similar to N. daedalus, N. nudiceps, and N. similis in its total vertebral count and slender body, however, it differs from the latter three in having a shorter tail (60% TL vs. 70–76%), more numerous preanal vertebrae (77 vs. 59–71), and shorter pectoral fins (2.4% HL vs. 21–27%). Although the new species resembles N. mccoskeri in some proportional characters, the former species is distinguishable from the latter by its higher total vertebral count (221 vs. 172–184), position of the dorsal-fin origin (horizontal distance from the origin to a vertical through mid-anus 65% of trunk length vs. 46–59%) and width of the interorbital region (4.5% of head length vs. 8.2–16%). A revised key to the species of Neenchelys is provided.
Impact of Two Plumes’ Interaction on Submarine Melting of Tidewater Glaciers: A Laboratory Study
Authors: Cenedese Claudia , Gatto V. Marco
Published: December 2015

Idealized laboratory experiments investigate the glacier–ocean boundary dynamics near a vertical glacier in a two-layer stratified fluid. Discharge of meltwater runoff at the base of the glacier (subglacial discharge) enhances submarine melting. In the laboratory, the effect of multiple sources of subglacial discharge is simulated by introducing freshwater at freezing temperature from two point sources at the base of an ice block representing the glacier. The buoyant plumes of cold meltwater and subglacial discharge water entrain warm ambient water, rise vertically, and interact within a layer of depth H2 if the distance between the sources x0 is smaller than H2α/0.35, where α is the entrainment constant. The plume water detaches from the glacier face at the interface between the two layers and/or at the free surface, as confirmed by previous numerical studies and field observations. A plume model is used to explain the observed nonmonotonic dependence of submarine melting on the sources’ separation. The distance between the two sources influences the entrainment of warm water in the plumes and consequently the amount of submarine melting and the final location of the meltwater within the water column. Two interacting plumes located very close together are observed to melt approximately half as much as two independent plumes. The inclusion, or parameterization, of the dynamics regulating multiple plumes’ interaction is therefore necessary for a correct estimate of submarine melting. Hence, the distribution and number of sources of subglacial discharge may play an important role in glacial melt rates and fjord stratification and circulation.
Relationship of Endothelial Cell–Specific Molecule 1 Level in Stress Hyperglycemia Patients With Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Qiu Chongrong , Sui Jian , Zhang Qian , Wei Peng , Wang Peng , Fu Qiang
Published: December 2015

Endothelial cell–specific molecule 1 ([ESM-1], endocan) is a new biomarker of endothelial dysfunction, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and stress hyperglycemia in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Therefore, we investigated serum ESM-1 levels in patients with stress hyperglycemia having STEMI; 105 patients with STEMI and 33 individuals as a control group were included in the study. The patients were followed up for 3 months and major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were recorded. Serum ESM-1 level was significantly higher in patients with stress hyperglycemia patients having STEMI ( P < .05). In these patients, serum ESM-1 levels correlated positively with glucose levels ( r = .21, P < .05). Multiple factor logistic regression analysis showed that serum ESM-1 levels >1.01 ng/mL (odds ratio 3.01, 95% confidence interval 1.05-8.64, P < .05) were an independent predictor of MACEs. Our findings suggest that ESM-1 is a novel biomarker overexpressed in patients with stress hyperglycemia having STEMI, admission glucose levels are associated with ESM-1 levels, and ESM-1 is an independent predictor of MACEs. An ESM-1 level >1.01 ng/mL is likely to predict a greater risk of MACEs.
Low immunoglobulin A levels detected via the tissue transglutaminase assay can reveal previously undetected monoclonal proteins
Authors: Wallage M , Dutton D , Lock RJ
Published: December 2015

Increased awareness of coeliac disease and the 2009 NICE guidance has led to an increase in patients being screened for Immunoglobulin A deficiency. We have shown previously that this provides an opportunity for the early identification of other underlying primary immunodeficiency, e.g. common variable immunodeficiency. In this context, the underlying gastrointestinal problem appears to be related to bacterial overgrowth. Here, we demonstrate that in addition this also provides an opportunity to reveal underlying secondary immunodeficiency due to other causes in patients with gastrointestinal presentation, notably lymphoproliferative disorders. In one 3-month period, of 60 cases reviewed for low Immunoglobulin A, we found four new paraproteins through this testing route; one symptomatic multiple myeloma, one asymptomatic multiple myeloma, one monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance and one in a known chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patient.
Resurrection, Eschatology, and the Challenge of Big Bang Cosmology
Authors: Russell Robert John
Published: December 2015

This essay deals with Christian eschatology as a “new creation” based on the bodily resurrection of Jesus, in contrast to scientific cosmologies that predict a “cosmic freeze” and the end of all life and matter in the universe. The seemingly impossible challenge science poses to theology arises from a philosophical assumption that the predictions of science must come to pass, when there are good reasons for applying a theological scenario to discussion of the future of the universe. Creative dialogue between Christian eschatology and scientific cosmology holds potential benefit for both sides of the debate.
The Racial Politics of Leadership, Culture, and Community
Authors: Prier Darius D.
Published: December 2015

An African American community and an all-White school board struggled along racial lines over re-naming an elementary school. In opposition to the name change, the school district enforced its school naming policy via a race-neutral approach in practice. The study chronicles an African American community’s successful political actions in challenging its local school board to rename the elementary school Rosa Parks. These actions facilitate pedagogical conditions that augment the cultural identity of the school, bolster community involvement, and improve academic achievement. Implications suggest school leaders should account for diverse contexts where schools are situated when making policy decisions.
A kind of bonding functional energetic thermoplastic elastomers based on glycidyl azide polymer
Authors: Zhang Zaijuan , Luo Nan , Deng Jingke , Ge Zhen , Luo Yunjun
Published: December 2015

A kind of bonding functional energetic thermoplastic elastomers (ETPEs) were synthesized as the binder of solid propellants using the mixture of chain extenders including diethyl bis(hydroxymethyl) malonate (DBM). The results showed that the mechanical properties of ETPEs decreased with increasing percent of DBM in the chain extenders. On the contrary, the work of adhesion between solid ingredients hexogen (RDX) and ETPEs increased. In order to test the comprehensive impacts of two elements, the RDX/ETPE propellants were prepared. The results showed when the percent of DBM was 25%, the overall properties of the propellants were optimum.
Attrition in developmental psychology
Authors: Nicholson Jody S. , Deboeck Pascal R. , Howard Waylon
Published: December 2015

Inherent in applied developmental sciences is the threat to validity and generalizability due to missing data as a result of participant drop-out. The current paper provides an overview of how attrition should be reported, which tests can examine the potential of bias due to attrition (e.g., t-tests, logistic regression, Little's MCAR test, sensitivity analysis), and how it is best corrected through modern missing data analyses. To amend this discussion of best practices in managing and reporting attrition, an assessment of how developmental sciences currently handle attrition was conducted. Longitudinal studies ( n = 541) published from 2009–2012 in major developmental journals were reviewed for attrition reporting practices and how authors handled missing data based on recommendations in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA, 2010). Results suggest attrition reporting is not following APA recommendations, quality of reporting did not improve since the APA publication, and a low proportion of authors provided sufficient information to convey that data properly met the MAR assumption. An example based on simulated data demonstrates bias that may result from various missing data mechanisms in longitudinal data, the utility of auxiliary variables for the MAR assumption, and the need for viewing missingness along a continuum from MAR to MNAR.
Bernard Stiegler on Transgenerational Memory and the Dual Origin of the Human
Authors: Haworth Michael
Published: December 2015

This article reconsiders Stiegler’s account of the emergence of the human species in light of research in the field of transgenerational epigenetics. Stiegler traces this emergence to the appearance of technical artefacts allowing for the intergenerational transmission of acquired memory that would otherwise die along with the organism. This is taken to constitute a rupture in the history of life. The argument that I develop critiques Stiegler’s account at two levels: On the empirical level I argue that emerging neo-Lamarckian developments in the life sciences pose a challenge to the terms in which the specificity of the human is outlined and the notion of the rupture with life that its emergence constitutes. On the logico-transcendental level, I contend that in its account of the rupture, Stiegler’s narrative repeats the logic of the ‘dual origin’ that he ascribes to Rousseau and Leroi-Gourhan in their respective accounts of the origin of the genus Anthropos.
Applying the Longitudinal Model from Item Response Theory to Assess Health-Related Quality of Life in the PRODIGE 4/ACCORD 11 Randomized Trial
Authors: Barbieri Antoine , Anota Amélie , Conroy Thierry , Gourgou-Bourgade Sophie , Juzyna Beata , Bonnetain Franck , Lavergne Christian , Bascoul-Mollevi Caroline
Published: December 2015

Introduction. A new longitudinal statistical approach was compared to the classical methods currently used to analyze health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) data. The comparison was made using data in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Methods. Three hundred forty-two patients from the PRODIGE4/ACCORD 11 study were randomly assigned to FOLFIRINOX versus gemcitabine regimens. HRQoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30. The classical analysis uses a linear mixed model (LMM), considering an HRQoL score as a good representation of the true value of the HRQoL, following EORTC recommendations. In contrast, built on the item response theory (IRT), our approach considered HRQoL as a latent variable directly estimated from the raw data. For polytomous items, we extended the partial credit model to a longitudinal analysis (longitudinal partial credit model [LPCM]), thereby modeling the latent trait as a function of time and other covariates. Results. Both models gave the same conclusions on 11 of 15 HRQoL dimensions. HRQoL evolution was similar between the 2 treatment arms, except for the symptoms of pain. Indeed, regarding the LPCM, pain perception was significantly less important in the FOLFIRINOX arm than in the gemcitabine arm. For most of the scales, HRQoL changes over time, and no difference was found between treatments in terms of HRQoL. Discussion. The use of LMM to study the HRQoL score does not seem appropriate. It is an easy-to-use model, but the basic statistical assumptions do not check. Our IRT model may be more complex but shows the same qualities and gives similar results. It has the additional advantage of being more precise and suitable because of its direct use of raw data.
Environmental justice, capabilities, and the theorization of well-being
Authors: Edwards Gareth A. S. , Reid Louise , Hunter Colin
Published: December 2015

Environmental justice (EJ) scholarship is increasingly framing justice in terms of capabilities. This paper argues that capabilities are fundamentally about well-being and as such there is a need to more explicitly theorize well-being. We explore how capabilities have come to be influential in EJ and how well-being has been approached so far in EJ specifically and human geography more broadly. We then introduce a body of literature from social psychology which has grappled theoretically with questions about well-being, using the insights we gain from it to reflect on some possible trajectories and challenges for EJ as it engages with well-being.
Syndrome of transient headache and neurological deficits with cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis (HaNDL): A case report with serial electroencephalography (EEG) recordings.. Is there an association with human herpes virus type 7 (HHV-7) infection?
Authors: Stelten Bianca ML , Venhovens Jeroen , van der Velden Lieven BJ , Meulstee Jan , Verhagen Wim IM
Published: December 2015

Introduction

The syndrome of transient headache and neurological deficits with cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis (HaNDL) is a diagnosis made by exclusion. In the literature, different etiological explanations are proposed for HaNDL, including an immune-mediated reaction after a viral infection.

Case description

We present a case of a 23-year-old woman with several episodes of transient headache, neurological deficits and cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis. All diagnostic criteria for the HaNDL syndrome were fulfilled; however, additional cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for human herpes virus type 7 (HHV-7).

Discussion

The possible role of a (prodromal) viral infection in the etiology of HaNDL is discussed. Also the role of electroencephalography (EEG) recordings is discussed. Serial EEG recordings showed generalized slowing, frontal intermittent rhythmic delta activity (FIRDA) and symmetric triphasic frontal waves with a dilation lag.
How common is normal cerebrospinal fluid pressure in spontaneous intracranial hypotension?
Authors: Kranz Peter G , Tanpitukpongse Teerath P , Choudhury Kingshuk Roy , Amrhein Timothy J , Gray Linda
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To determine the proportion of patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) who had a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure >6 cm H2O and to investigate the clinical and imaging variables associated with CSF pressure ( PCSF) in this condition.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 106 patients with SIH. PCSF was measured by lumbar puncture prior to treatment. Clinical and imaging variables – including demographic data, brain imaging results, symptom duration, and abdominal circumference – were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the correlation of these variables with PCSF.

Results

Sixty-one percent of patients had a PCSF between 6 and 20 cm H2O; only 34% had a PCSF ≤6 cm H2O. The factors associated with increased PCSF included abdominal circumference ( p < 0.001), symptom duration ( p = 0.015), and the absence of brain magnetic resonance imaging findings of SIH ( p = 0.003). A wide variability in PCSF was observed among all patients, which was not completely accounted for by the variables included in the model.

Conclusions

Normal CSF pressure is common in patients with SIH; the absence of a low opening pressure should not exclude this condition. Body habitus, symptom duration, and brain imaging are correlated with PCSF measurements, but these factors alone do not entirely explain the wide variability in observed pressures in this condition and this suggests the influence of other factors.
Safety and efficacy of intra-articular anti-tumor necrosis factor α agents compared to corticosteroids in a treat-to-target strategy in patients with inflammatory arthritis and monoarthritis flare
Authors: Carubbi Francesco , Zugaro Luigi , Cipriani Paola , Conchiglia Armando , Gregori Lorenzo , Danniballe Cristino , Letizia Pistoia Maria , Liakouli Vasiliki , Ruscitti Piero , Ciccia Francesco , Triolo Giovanni , Masciocchi Carlo , Giacomelli Roberto
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to assess safety and efficacy of ultrasonography (US)-guided intra-articular injections using tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers compared to corticosteroids in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients, experiencing refractory monoarthritis despite the current systemic therapy. Eighty-two patients were randomized to receive three intra-articular injections monthly of either corticosteroid or TNF blockers. Primary endpoints were the safety and an improvement greater than 20% for visual analogic scales of involved joint pain in patients injected with anti-TNFα. Further clinical, US, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluations were considered secondary endpoints. Intra-articular TNF blockers are a safe strategy, determining a significant reduction of patient and physician reported clinical outcomes and US/MRI scores, in RA and PsA patients, when compared to intra-articular injections of corticosteroids. US guidance excluded the possibility to inject the drug in the wrong site, maximizing local effects, reducing systemic effects, and increasing the safety of the procedure. Patients with inflammatory monoarthritis could be successfully treated with US-guided intra-articular TNF blockers that are a safe and well tolerated procedure, to achieve a longstanding clinical and radiological good clinical response and/or disease remission.
Heterogeneity in the genetic alterations and in the clinical presentation of acrodermatitis enteropathic: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ricci G , Ferrari S , Calamelli E , Ricci L , Neri I , Patrizi A
Published: December 2015

Acrodermatitis enteropathic (AE) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder due to a zinc deficiency and characterized by a classical triad of symptoms: dermatitis, alopecia, and diarrhea. The defective gene is SLC39A4, which encodes a zinc transporter. Nevertheless many abnormalities in SLC39A4 have been relieved, only 50% of patients show alterations. Here is reported the case of an infant with mild and incomplete manifestations of AE, for whom the SLC39A4 genetic test was performed. A novel mutation in SLC39A4 was identified. Zinc replacement improved rapidly the skin lesions. Our case highlights the importance of suspecting this rare condition and to perform the genetic test even in those patients who do not fulfil the classical triad of symptoms. Further efforts should be addressed to identify a more strength correlation between genotype and phenotype of this disorder.
Impact of reactive oxygen species on antioxidant capacity of male reproductive system
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Mahmood Zahed , Shahid Muhammad , Saeed M Usman Qamar , Tahir Imtiaz Mahmood , Shah SM Ali , Munir Naveed , El-Ghorab Ahmed
Published: December 2015

The present research work was aimed to study the mutual interaction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and basal cells antioxidant capacity in the male reproductive system and to further establish the association between selected heavy metals and stress markers. Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) of serum and seminal plasma were determined by automated photometric methods. The concentrations of Selenium (Se), Lead (Pb), and Cadmium (Cd) were determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The TOS was increased significantly ( P <0.05) in seminal plasma as well as in the serum of the infertile group when compared with the fertile group. On the other hand, the TAS of the infertile group was found to be noticeably decreased ( P <0.05) when compared with the TAS of the fertile group. Among the heavy metals, a noticeably lower concentration of Se was detected in the infertile group whereas markedly elevated levels of Cd and Pb were observed in the infertile group compared with the fertile group. Among the infertile group a significant inverse correlation (r = −0.521, P <0.05) was observed between Se and TOS and between Cd and Pb (r = −0.407, P <0.05). Contrarily among the infertile group a considerable positive relationship was established between Se and TAS (r = 0.507, P <0.05). It was concluded that the oxidant stress reduces the antioxidant activity in infertile men by elevating the production of ROS. A lower concentration of Se and elevated levels of Pb and Cd explain the individual’s exposure to these heavy metals. The study also revealed that the heavy metal toxicity contributes significantly to male infertility.
CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells, Th1 (CCR5, IL-2, IFN-γ) and Th2 (CCR4, IL-4, Il-13) type chemokine receptors and intracellular cytokines in children with common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Kutukculer Necil , Azarsiz Elif , Aksu Guzide , Karaca Neslihan Edeer
Published: December 2015

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of primary antibody deficiencies characterized by decreased serum immunoglobulin G along with a decrease in serum IgA and/or IgM, defective specific antibody production, and recurrent bacterial infections. Abnormal lymphocyte trafficking, dysregulated cellular responses to chemokines, and uncontrolled T cell polarization may be involved in the pathogenesis and may help to understand the clinical complications. We evaluated T helper cell subsets (chemokine receptors CCR4, CCR5, and CCR7), expressions on T lymphocytes, intracellular cytokines – IL-2, IL-4, IL-13, IFN- γ-on CD4+ T cells, and expression of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells of 20 CVID patients and 26 healthy controls. Autoimmune clinical findings and other complications were also determined. Percentages and absolute numbers of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ cells did not show any significant difference between CVID cases and healthy controls nor between severe and moderate disease patients. The only significant difference regarding Th1 and Th2 type intracellular cytokines was the decreased absolute numbers of CD3+CD4+IL4+ cells in CVID cases. There were some findings about T helper cell type dominance in CVID patients such as positive correlation between hepatomegaly and high IL-2 and IFN-γ in CD3+CD4+ cells and very high expression of CCR5 (Th1) on CD3+CD4+ cells in patients with granuloma. Th1 (CCR5) and Th2 (CCR4) type chemokine receptors did not show any dominance in CVID cases. However, frequencies of CCR7 expressing CD3+ T cells, CD3+CD4+ T helper cells and CD3+CD8+ T cytotoxic cells were significantly lower in severe CVID patients. In addition, presence of autoimmune clinical findings was negatively correlated with CCR7+ cells. As CCR7 is a key mediator balancing immunity and tolerance in the immune system, the abnormality of this mediator may contribute to the profound immune dysregulation seen in CVID. In addition, Th1 cells seem to be more involved in the disease pathogenesis than Th2 cells.
Blueberry treatment attenuated cirrhotic and preneoplastic lesions and oxidative stress in the liver of diethylnitrosamine-treated rats
Authors: Bingül İlknur , Başaran-Küçükgergin Canan , Aydın A Fatih , Soluk-Tekkeşin Merva , Olgaç Vakur , Doğru-Abbasoğlu Semra , Uysal Müjdat
Published: December 2015

Diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver cancer normally develops in stages that progress from cirrhosis and carcinoma. Increased oxidative stress is suggested to play a role in DEN-induced carcinogenicity. Blueberries (BB) contain high antioxidant capacity. We investigated the effect of BB supplementation on development of DEN-induced cirrhosis and neoplastic lesions in the liver. Rats were injected with DEN (200 mg/kg; i.p.) three times with an interval of 15 days at 4, 6, and 8 weeks and sacrificed 8 weeks after the last DEN injection. They were also fed on 8% BB (w/w) containing chow for 16 weeks. Hepatic damage markers in serum were determined together with hepatic histopathological examinations. Hydroxyproline (HYP), malondialdehyde (MDA), diene conjugate (DC), protein carbonyl (PC), and glutathione (GSH) levels, and CuZn-superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and their mRNA expressions were measured. Protein and mRNA expressions of glutathione transferase-pi (GST-pi) were evaluated as a marker of preneoplastic lesions. BB supplementation decreased hepatic damage markers in serum and hepatic MDA, DC, and PC levels, but SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities and their mRNA expressions remained unchanged in DEN-treated rats. BB attenuated cirrhotic changes and decreased hepatic HYP levels and GST-pi expressions. Our results indicate that BB is effective in decreasing development of DEN-induced hepatic cirrhosis and preneoplastic lesions by acting as an antioxidant (radical scavenger) itself without affecting activities and mRNA expressions of antioxidant enzymes.