bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of Mifepristone on the Regulation of Cytotoxic Lymphocytes and Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Liu Linxiang , Zhou Feng , Qin Jiale , Qian Zhida , Huang Lili
Published: October 2017

Objective: To investigate the immunologic function of mifepristone, which acts as a contraceptive drug at the level of the decidua. Setting: In our hospital, 60 women (less than 63 days of amenorrhea) volunteered to terminate their pregnancies by the uterine suction evacuation method. Immunohistochemically, the transcription factor forkhead box P3 and granzyme B staining were performed to identify regulatory T cells and cytotoxic lymphocytes (CLs) in all operational subjects. CD8 (cytotoxic T cells marker) and CD56 (natural killer cells marker) staining were further performed in order to characterize the CLs subpopulations. Result: A significantly increased number of CLs was found in the decidua treated with mifepristone. Conclusion: Mifepristone increases the expression of CLs in the decidua, and it provides new insights into the immunologic function of mifepristone as a drug used for pregnancy termination.
Prognostic Significance of Focal Adhesion Kinase in Node-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Almstedt Katrin , Sicking Isabel , Battista Marco J. , Huangfu Shangou , Heimes Anne-Sophie , Weyer-Elberich Veronika , Hasenburg Annette , Schmidt Marcus
Published: October 2017

Background: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase that plays an important role as a mediator of cell migration, invasion, proliferation and survival. Conflicting results for the prognostic role of FAK in breast cancer (BC) prompted us to determine its impact. Methods: Patients with node-negative BC entered this retrospective study. FAK expression was determined by immunohistochemistry (n = 335). The prognostic impact of FAK was examined with Cox regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier estimation in the whole cohort as well as in different molecular subtypes. Results: 151 (45.1%) had a FAK-positive BC. In univariate analyses, FAK expression showed a significant impact for shorter disease-free survival (DFS) (hazard ratio (HR) 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-2.28, p = 0.030) but not for metastasis-free survival and overall survival. Significant prognostic relevance for DFS (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.05-2.97, p = 0.033) was observed in particular in estrogen receptor-positive HER2-negative BC patients, most notably in luminal B-like tumors (HR 2.32, CI 1.20-4.48, p = 0.012). However, FAK lost its prognostic impact in multivariate Cox regression analysis. Conclusion: FAK was associated with impaired DFS in univariate analysis. Prognostic relevance for DFS was most pronounced in luminal B-like BC. However, FAK expression was not associated with an independent impact on survival for BC in multivariate analysis.
Noninvasive Sampling of the Intrauterine Environment in Women with Preterm Labor and Intact Membranes
Authors: Cobo Teresa , Kacerovsky Marian , Jacobsson Bo
Published: October 2017

Spontaneous preterm birth has enormous consequences for newborns, children, and families. Intra-amniotic inflammation (IAI) is the leading cause of spontaneous preterm delivery, mainly at earlier gestational ages. Amniocentesis is the only method used to identify IAI in clinical practice. Although it is an invasive procedure with a very low risk of complications, many women and physicians are hesitant about amniocentesis on this indication. This has been an incentive to explore IAI and the intra-amniotic environment through noninvasive techniques, such as sampling cervical mucus, vaginal fluid, or maternal blood. With this overview, we aim to provide a concise update on the state of the art of the noninvasive sampling of the intrauterine environment in women with preterm labor and intact membranes. So far, it is unknown whether this screening helps improve our knowledge about the impact of IAI on the neonatal and long-term outcome, but we believe it merits this review.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: 10-Year Evaluation of Survival, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, and Foetoscopic Endotracheal Occlusion in Four High-Volume Centres
Authors: Snoek Kitty G. , Greenough Anne , van Rosmalen Joost , Capolupo Irma , Schaible Thomas , Ali Kamal , Wijnen René M. , Tibboel Dick
Published: October 2017

Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a severe congenital anomaly with significant mortality. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine if there were trends in survival over the last decade and to compare patient populations, treatment options, and survival rates between 4 high-volume centres, and hence determine which factors were associated with survival. Methods: In 4 high-volume CDH centres from the CDH EURO Consortium, data from all CDH patients born between 2004 and 2013 were analysed. The predictive value of variables known at birth and the influence of centre-specific treatments (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ECMO, and foetoscopic endotracheal occlusion, FETO) on survival were evaluated in multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: Nine hundred and seventy-five patients were included in the analysis, of whom 274 (28.1%) died. ECMO was performed in 259 patients, of whom 81 (31.3%) died. One hundred and forty-five patients (14.9%) underwent FETO, and from those 76 patients (52.4%) survived. Survival differed significantly between years (p = 0.006) and between the 4 centres (p < 0.001). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, lung-to-head ratio, gestational age at birth, ECMO, centre of birth, and year of birth were significantly associated with survival, whereas FETO was not. Conclusions: The patient populations were different between centres, which influenced outcomes. There was a significant variability in survival over time and between centres, which should be taken into consideration in the planning of future trials.
Patterns of Relapse after Definitive Chemoradiotherapy in Stage II/III (Non-T4) Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sudo Kazuki , Kato Ken , Kuwabara Hiroki , Sasaki Yusuke , Takahashi Naoki , Shoji Hirokazu , Iwasa Satoru , Honma Yoshitaka , Okita Natsuko T. , Takashima Atsuo , Hamaguchi Tetsuya , Yamada Yasuhide , Ito Yoshinori , Itami Jun , Fukuda Takahiro , Tobinai Kensei , Boku Narikazu
Published: October 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the utility of surveillance after definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) in patients with squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Patients who underwent dCRT for stage II/III (excluding T4) esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were analyzed. First failures following complete response were classified into luminal relapse (LR), regional relapse (RR), distant metastasis (DM), new cancer diagnosed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (NC-E), and new cancer other than NC-E (NC-O). We focused on LR, RR, and NC-E, and analyzed their frequency, timings and survival outcomes after local treatments. Results: Among 302 patients treated with dCRT, 204 achieved complete response. The number of patients who recurred with LR, RR, DM, NC-E, and NC-O were 28 (14% of 204), 13 (6%), 39 (19%), 34 (17%), and 16 (8%). Ninety-three percent of LRs were diagnosed within 3 years after dCRT, and all RRs were diagnosed within 2 years. Annual odds of NC-E did not decrease over time. Twenty-three patients with LR, 6 with RR, and 32 with NC-E underwent local treatment, and their median overall survivals were 49.2, 19.5, and 108.9 months. Conclusion: Surveillance with esophagogastroduodenoscopy may be important in the first 3 years after dCRT to detect LR and to detect NC-E beyond 3 years.
Osteopathie bei gastroösophagealem Reflux mit Hiatushernie: Ein Fallbericht gemäß der CARE-Leitlinie
Authors: Rotter Gabriele , Brinkhaus Benno
Published: October 2017

Hintergrund: Das Vorhandensein einer Hiatushernie kann das Auftreten einer gastroösophagealen Refluxerkrankung (GERD) als Komplikation bedingen. Konventionelle medizinische Therapiemaßnahmen können zu unerwünschten Ereignissen und Rezidiven führen. Bisher sind die Effekte von osteopathischen Behandlungen bei Hiatushernie und GERD nicht bekannt. Fallbericht: Eine 59-jährige Patientin mit endoskopisch diagnostizierter chronischer Gastritis, GERD und Hiatushernie beklagte einen persistierenden gastroösophagealen Reflux trotz konventionell-medizinischer konservativer Therapie. Die osteopathische Diagnostik ergab eine funktionelle Störung im Bereich des Magens und der Kardia mit einer Beteiligung zugehöriger Reflexzonen. Nach einer osteopathischen Behandlung als individuelle, befundorientierte Therapie ließen die Beschwerden erheblich nach. Die Hiatushernie war nach einer dieser Behandlung endoskopisch nicht mehr nachweisbar. Schlussfolgerungen: Dieser Fallbericht schildert die Symptomreduktion einer GERD nach osteopathischer Behandlung. In der endoskopischen Folgeuntersuchung fand sich die initial diagnostizierte Hiatushernie nicht mehr, diese Befund änderung könnte jedoch auf die unterschiedlichen Untersucher zurückgeführt werden. Prospektive kontrollierte klinische Studien sind notwendig, um den Stellenwert von osteopathischen Behandlungen bei GERD mit Hiatushernie zu untersuchen.
Fluxos culturais: arte, educação, comunicação e mídias
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Educação
Published: October 2017

O livro é uma coletânea que reúne investigações ligadas, direta ou indiretamente, a dois grupos de pesquisa: o Grupo de Estudos sobre Itinerários de Formação em Educação e Cultura - GEIFEC e o Laboratório Experimental de Arte-Educação e Cultura - Lab_Arte, ambos da Faculdade de Educação da Universidade de São Paulo. Tendo em foco um amplo e impreciso território que abarca arte, educação, comunicação e mídias, a obra apresenta o modo como alguns professores/as e pesquisadores/as, com diferentes formações e orientações teóricas, conjugam e promovem a diversidade de processos formativos entrecruzados com outros modos de expressão cultural. Assim, mais do que um conjunto de reflexões ou testemunhos sobre a cultura contemporânea, trata-se de desenrolar, por meio de vozes distintas, alguns fluxos culturais que nos perfazem.
Mil rosas roubadas, de Silviano Santiago, em perspectiva bakhtiniana
Authors: Marchezan Renata Coelho , Pernambuco Juscelino
Published: October 2017

Neste estudo, propõe-se analisar Mil rosas roubadas, obra de Silviano Santiago de 2014, e, para tanto, ocupa-se das noções de (auto)biografia, romance (auto)biográfico, metaficção e autoficção. Embora a criação deste último termo possa indicar a existência de um novo gênero – é, inclusive, adotado pelo próprio escritor para nomear sua obra –, o artigo mostra a pertinência de situar Mil rosas roubadas na rota das transformações e estilizações do romance (auto)biográfico, tal como examinada e apontada por M. Bakhtin. Para esse estudioso, o romance, gênero sem forma rígida e sempre inacabado, acompanha as inflexões da vida social. É, nesse caminho, que se analisa a ressemantização do eu, elaborada por Silviano Santiago.
O papel do leitor em Felpo Filva, de Eva Furnari
Authors: Gebara Ana Elvira L. , Sparano Magalí Elisabete
Published: October 2017

Para se analisar a relação entre escritor-leitor além da mediação do texto, é preciso identificar as posições que ocupam. Antes da internet, não era comum o leitor se aproximar diretamente do escritor, salvo por cartas. Esse contato virtual (mas não digital) é modelar para compreendermos a relação do leitor com o autor pois, nas linhas escritas, aquele acaba por indicar como compreende a si e ao outro – em um jogo das faces, entendida nesse trabalho como Kerbrat-Orecchioni (2006) a caracteriza na conversação. Nesse hipergênero, sem restrições sócio-históricas e de categorização (MAINGUENEAU, 2010), há uma disposição obrigatória que constrange o remetente a identificar sua posição a partir do momento em que escolhe como se dirigir ao destinatário. Nessas formas de tratamento, começam a ser delineadas as relações de preservação ou de ameaça à face que se estendem ou se explicitam no tratamento dado ao tema da carta. Nesse artigo, tem-se como objetivo identificar, nas cartas trocadas pelos personagens centrais para o desenvolvimento da narrativa do livro Felpo Filva (FURNARI, 2006), Charlô e Felpo, respectivamente leitora e escritor, as concepções desses papeis nos nossos dias na perspectiva discursivo-dialógica em que os limites do texto para o leitor são ultrapassados.
Nelly Novaes Coelho: uma vida dedicada à literatura
Authors: Cunha Maria Zilda , Lopes Cristiano Camilo
Published: October 2017

Neste artigo, propõe-se homenagear a professora Nelly Novaes Coelho destacando aspectos da sua biografia que vão desde a sua infância e formação até sua atuação como escritora, professora e crítica de arte. Para cumprir esse objetivo, o texto está segmentado em quatro partes: na primeira, apresentam-se os pilares da formação da professora Nelly, destacando-se seu gosto pela arte literária desde a infância; na segunda, descreve-se sua atuação como docente universitária e sua consequente ação no ensino da literatura; na terceira parte, impõem-se suas contribuições para literatura infantil e para a literatura produzida por mulheres, dois campos que Nelly se debruçou com afinco para a produção de material teórico na área de literatura; e, por fim, na quarta parte, destacam-se a perspectiva da professora sobre a literatura no século XXI. Listam-se também, neste trabalho, toda a produção bibliográfica da autora bem como os prêmios recebidos no Brasil e no exterior.
“The Bird was a Valuable One”
Authors: Cushing Nancy , Markwell Kevin
Published: October 2017

Australian native, nonhuman animals at first intrigued and then disappointed newcomers as Australia was colonized by the British in the late eighteenth century. They were disparaged as unproductive and unpalatable oddities, killed as competitors to introduced species, or harvested as a source of fur and feathers for export. Focusing on the period 1803 to 1939, this paper examines one exception to this general pattern: the keeping of native animals as “pets.” Contemporary newspaper articles and advertisements are drawn upon to demonstrate that the Australian native fauna kept as pets were highly valued both emotionally by their “owners” and economically in the commercial trade and the courts. This valuation had few direct benefits to species overall because it remained focused on individual pets and was not shared with free-living animals, but it did keep alive an interest in native animals that greatly expanded in the mid-twentieth century.
Riders’ Perceptions of Equestrian Communication in Sports Dressage
Authors: Zetterqvist Blokhuis Mari , Lundgren Charlotte
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study is to enhance the understanding of how sport dressage riders describe rider-horse communication when riding, and to relate these descriptions to current research on human-horse communication. Interviews with 15 amateur dressage riders were analyzed using a qualitative approach. The study shows that the interviewed riders describe the communication with the horses partly in a behavioristic way, applying concepts based on learning theory, which deviate from the description of riders as lacking understanding of these concepts put forth by some researchers. The riders connect the timing of their aids to equestrian feel, which they describe as the most difficult yet the most awarding aspect of the interspecies communication that riding is. Simultaneously, they acknowledge that horses are fully capable of choosing to listen to and cooperate with their requests.
Steinernema litchii n. sp. (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), a new entomopathogenic nematode from South Africa
Authors: Steyn Willem P. , Knoetze Rinus , Tiedt Louwrens R. , Malan Antoinette P.
Published: October 2017

During a survey in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, a Steinernema species was isolated from a soil sample taken from a litchi orchard. Steinernema litchii n. sp. can be separated from other, closely related, species in the glaseri-group by morphological, morphometric and molecular analyses. The infective third-stage juvenile of the new species has a body length of 1054 (953-1146) μm, distance from head to excretory pore of 78 (64-86) μm, as well as eight ridges (i.e., nine lines) in the mid-body region. The c-ratio of 10 (9-13) is low and the tail is long at 95 (73-105) μm. First generation males have a spicule length of 86 (76-96) μm and a gubernaculum length of 65 (59-72) μm. The tail of the first generation male lacks a mucron; that of the second generation always bears one. The genital papillae total 23 and consist of 11 pairs and an unpaired precloacal papilla. The vulva of S. litchii n. sp. has a slightly asymmetrical protuberance and short, double-flapped epiptygmata. The female has a slightly protuberant postanal swelling. Phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and of the 28S (D2-D3) regions of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) confirmed the close relationship of S. litchii n. sp. to the Karii-clade. Both morphological and molecular evidence support the species status of S. litchii n. sp.
Alfred Schutz on Phenomenological Psychology and Transcendental Phenomenology
Authors: Gros Alexis Emanuel
Published: October 2017

Alfred Schutz is, without a doubt, one of the phenomenologists that contributed the most to the reflection on how to apply insights from phenomenological philosophy to the, empirical and theoretical, human and social sciences. However, his work tends to be neglected by many of the current advocates of phenomenology within these disciplines. In the present paper, I intend to remedy this situation. In order to do so, I will systematically revisit his mundane and social-scientifically oriented account of phenomenology, which, as I shall show, emerges from a theoretical confrontation with the Husserlian distinction between transcendental phenomenology and phenomenological psychology.
Contributions of Religions to the Common Good in Pluralistic Societies from a Christian Perspective? Some Critical Remarks
Authors: Smit Dirk J.
Published: October 2017

The paper argues that, from the perspective of South African experiences, four notions in the title could easily lead to misunderstandings. The notion of a Christian perspective could ignore the deep diversity and contestation within the Christian traditions themselves. The notion pluralistic could easily be too innocent to address the deep forms of division, alienation and injustice in real life. The notion of the contributions made by religions may be understood, especially by Reformed Christians, primarily in terms of speaking, while the real contributions made by religions to the common life may in fact be more complex and more fundamental. The notion of societies in the plural may again be too superficial and innocent and obscure the ways in which we share a common world and life today.
Discretion and the Gravity of Situations at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Pues Anni
Published: October 2017

This article offers a new perspective on the gravity notion in Article 17(1)(d) of the Statute. It demonstrates that it is impossible to determine gravity to ‘exacting legal requirements’, as the Pre-Trial Chamber in the situation of the registered vessels of the Union of the Comoros, Greece and Cambodia found. Instead, the Prosecutor is equipped with some ‘interpretative discretion’ that allows adjustment to the factually diverse situations that the International Criminal Court (icc) is confronted with. This form of discretion, however, is distinct from those procedural discretionary processes that have to be used to select which situations to investigate. Interpretative discretion nevertheless requires as much consistency as possible. As pathways to achieve that, this article challenges the concept of situational gravity. It further proposes to exclude any perpetrator-based element in the gravity assessment to harmonise the interpretation of gravity for potential and real cases before the icc.
African States Failed Withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court: From Withdrawal Notifications to Constructive Engagement
Authors: Ssenyonjo Manisuli
Published: October 2017

In 2016 three African states, namely South Africa, Burundi and The Gambia submitted written notifications of withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Rome Statute) to the Secretary-General of the United Nations pursuant to Article 127 of the Rome Statute. Although the African Union (au) welcomed and fully supported the three States’ withdrawal notifications and considered them as ‘pioneer implementers’ of the au’s ‘Withdrawal Strategy’, The Gambia and South Africa withdrew their notifications of withdrawal before they became effective. This article examines three issues arising out of the said withdrawal notifications. It begins by examining the reasons as to why the three states submitted withdrawal notifications from the Rome Statute. It then considers the impact of the three states’ withdrawal notifications. It concludes by identifying steps that might be taken to ensure constructive engagement between African States and the icc.
The Malawi-Rwanda Extradition Treaty of February 2017: An Arrangement of Convenience or a Convenience of Arrangement?
Authors: Nkhata Mwiza Jo
Published: October 2017

In February 2017, Malawi and Rwanda entered into a bilateral extradition treaty (the Treaty). The Treaty solemnizes the agreement between Malawi and Rwanda for the reciprocal extradition of offenders. While the Treaty looks akin to many generic bilateral extradition treaties, close scrutiny reveals that there are several key issues that the drafters may have overlooked or paid insufficient attention to. This article is an evaluation of some of the issues that the Treaty raises. The article begins by establishing the broad historical and social context within which the Treaty must be understood. Thereafter the article explores extradition in international law paying particular focus to highlight the key elements of extradition. A summary of the Treaty is then provided together with a discussion of the Malawian law pertaining to extradition. The article concludes by highlighting some of the key issues which the Treaty has not addressed satisfactorily.
The Human Rights Mandate of a Prosecutor of an International Criminal Trial
Authors: Namakula Catherine S.
Published: October 2017

There is no trial that is worth human suffering. This is the secret behind the successful marriage of human rights and international criminal law. Whenever there is a right, there must be a guard. The prosecutor, as the driving force of international criminal proceedings, must ensure that a case is investigated and proceeds to trial with respect and protection of the rights of persons involved, especially the accused. The autonomy and discretion accorded to the prosecution is functional and tactical in as far as it enables it to lead the course of justice. Following its exclusive control of investigations, the prosecution determines whether and when to commence a trial. It decides which material is to form part of the deliberations and may seek that an incompetent trial is suspended or strike a plea bargain. This article explores the components of the obscure human rights mandate of the prosecutor.
Language–General Auditory–Visual Speech Perception: Thai–English and Japanese–English McGurk Effects
Authors: Burnham Denis , Dodd Barbara
Published: October 2017

Cross-language McGurk Effects are used to investigate the locus of auditory–visual speech integration. Experiment 1 uses the fact that [], as in ‘sing’, is phonotactically legal in word-final position in English and Thai, but in word-initial position only in Thai. English and Thai language participants were tested for ‘n’ perception from auditory [m]/visual [] (A[m]V[]) in word-initial and -final positions. Despite English speakers’ native language bias to label word-initial [] as ‘n’, the incidence of ‘n’ percepts to A[m]V[] was equivalent for English and Thai speakers in final and initial positions. Experiment 2 used the facts that (i) [ð] as in ‘that’ is not present in Japanese, and (ii) English speakers respond more often with ‘tha’ than ‘da’ to A[ba]V[ga], but more often with ‘di’ than ‘thi’ to A[bi]V[gi]. English and three groups of Japanese language participants (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced English knowledge) were presented with A[ba]V[ga] and A[bi]V[gi] by an English (Experiment 2a) or a Japanese (Experiment 2b) speaker. Despite Japanese participants’ native language bias to perceive ‘d’ more often than ‘th’, the four groups showed a similar phonetic level effect of [a]/[i] vowel context × ‘th’ vs. ‘d’ responses to A[b]V[g] presentations. In Experiment 2b this phonetic level interaction held, but was more one-sided as very few ‘th’ responses were evident, even in Australian English participants. Results are discussed in terms of a phonetic plus postcategorical model, in which incoming auditory and visual information is integrated at a phonetic level, after which there are post-categorical phonemic influences.
Reptile Life in the Land of Israel with Comments on Adjacent Regions: A Book Review
Authors: Sion Guy
Published: October 2017

The present review is in part a complement to the prompt, knowledgeable and favorable review by Anderson (2016) that, however, failed to reflect certain unique aspects of the book.
Resurrection of the enigmatic species Prangos akymatodes (Apiaceae) from Central Afghanistan
Authors: LYSKOV DMITRY , SAMIGULLIN TAHIR
Published: October 2017

Based on molecular and morphological evidence, the narrow endemic to Afghanistan Prangos akymatodes has been re-established from synonymy under P. uloptera. The main diagnostic characters (shape and length of leaf lobes, shape of fruits and wings of mericarps) are different in the two species. Molecular analysis of nrITS/ETS markers supported P. akymatodes as a distinct species and placed it in the subgenus Koelzella, the species of which are mostly distributed in the Tien Shan Mountains.
Rafflesia kemumu (Rafflesiaceae), a new species from Northern Bengkulu, Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: SUSATYA AGUS , HIDAYATI SITI NUR , RIKI SEPTIAN
Published: October 2017

Rafflesia kemumu is a new species described from Northern Bengkulu in Sumatra, Indonesia. The species resembles R. gadutensis in size of the open flower, but differs from it with regard to the color and wart ornamentation on the upper surface of the perigone lobes, color and presence/absence of warts on the upper surface of the diaphragm, blots pattern on the two concentric rings of windows near the diaphragm opening, types and distribution of ramenta, number and shapes of processes, and number of anthers. The new species has orange to dark orange perigone lobes with warts of two sizes, in which smaller warts are often merged, and surround larger ones, and 23 slender, conical processes with rounded apex, arranged in two concentric rings (15 and 7 processes each) and a single process in the center of the disc. Rafflesia kemumu has no warts at its upper surface of diaphragm, simple and compound toadstool ramenta on its upper perigone tube and the lower part of the lower surface of its diaphragm and broccoli-like ramenta distributed from the base to the upper part of the perigone tube.
Ulnaria verhaegeniana, a new diatom (Bacillariophyta) species from Belgium
Authors: VAN DE VIJVER BART , DE HAAN MYRIAM , MERTENS ADRIENNE , COCQUYT CHRISTINE
Published: October 2017

During a routine biomonitoring project of the water quality in rivers and brooks in Flanders, Belgium, an unusual Ulnaria taxon was found that could not be identified using the currently available literature. Based on detailed light and scanning electron microscopy observations, the unknown taxon is described as new to science: Ulnaria verhaegeniana sp. nov. The new taxon can be distinguished by its parallel margins, abruptly tapering to the valve apices, its relatively modest valve dimensions with a valve width < 6 µm and the very large, apically elongated, rectangular central area. The new taxon is compared to all Ulnaria taxa presently known. Notes on its ecology are added.
Xenophyllum juniperinum (Compositae, Senecioneae), a new required combination
Authors: CALVO JOEL , MUÑOZ-SCHICK MÉLICA , MOREIRA-MUÑOZ ANDRÉS
Published: October 2017

Due to ongoing studies on the austral species of Xenophyllum and Werneria, we noticed that some taxonomic and nomenclatural adjustments are required. Herein, we propose a new combination, Xenophyllum juniperinum.
A revision of the Myopsalta crucifera (Ashton) species group (Hemiptera: Cicadidae: Cicadettini) with 14 new species from mainland Australia
Authors: POPPLE LINDSAY W.
Published: October 2017

The genus Myopsalta Moulds is distributed throughout much of Australia. Previous studies have associated several undescribed species with the Myopsalta crucifera (Ashton) species complex. The present study informally divides the cicadas in the genus Myopsalta into two species groups. It provides a revision of the M. crucifera species group, which includes redescriptions of M. crucifera s. str. and M. mackinlayi (Distant). The identity of the latter species is further refined and attributed to material formerly presented under the name Myopsalta atrata (Goding & Froggatt). In addition to the redescriptions, 14 new species belonging to the M. crucifera species group are described, including M. albiventris n. sp., M. bassiana n. sp., M. chrysopedia n. sp., M. gordoni n. sp., M. leona n. sp., M. longicauda n. sp., M. majurae n. sp., M. melanobasis n. sp., M. parvula n. sp., M. platyptera n. sp., M. riverina n. sp., M. septa n. sp., M. umbra n. sp. and M. xerograsidia n. sp. A key to species in the genus Myopsalta is provided. Standard morphological descriptions and descriptions of calling songs unique to each species are included along with a discussion on different song types in the M. crucifera species group.
6. The Crop-Planting Song
Authors: Dechun Li , Roche Gerald
Published: October 2017

The Crop-Planting Song describes the origins of agriculture amongst the Mongghul. It begins with humanity living in cold, hunger, and darkness, and then describes how the Buddha created the sun and moon, bestowed crops upon people, and taught them how to farm. In doing so, it also provides a map of the cosmos—the heavens and celestial bodies, Mount Sumeru, the earth and its regions, and so on.
Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Chinese Patients: A Large Single-Center Data
Authors: Wang Huanhuan , Gao Zhan , Song Ying , Tang Xiaofang , Xu Jingjing , Jiang Ping , Jiang Lin , Chen Jue , Gao Lijian , Song Lei , Zhang Yin , Zhao Xueyan , Qiao Shubin , Yang Yuejin , Gao Runlin , Xu Bo , Yuan Jinqing
Published: October 2017

Aim:

To investigate the impact of diabetic status on 2-year clinical outcomes in Chinese patients undergoing contemporary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) treatment.

Methods and Results:

A total of 10 724 consecutive patients underwent PCI at Fu Wai Hospital were prospectively collected. Two-year clinical outcomes were compared between patients with and without diabetes mellitus (DM). Diabetic patients had more baseline clinical risks and more extensive coronary disease. During 2-year follow-up, the rates of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), revascularization, and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were significantly higher in DM group. After multivariable-adjusted Cox regression analysis, DM was an independent risk factor for MACE but not for the individual components of MACE. After performing propensity score matching, rates of all-cause death, MI, revascularization, stroke, stent thrombosis, and MACE were not significantly different between the 2 groups, and DM was not predictive of MACE and any clinical adverse outcomes.

Conclusions:

Diabetic patients who underwent PCI had worse prognosis including death and repeat revascularization during 2-year follow-up, but DM was not an independent risk factor for adverse clinical outcomes.
Dyslipidemia Screening of 9- to 11-Year-Olds at Well-Child Visits by Utah Pediatricians
Authors: Stipelman Carole , Young Paul C. , Hemond Joni , Brown Laura L. , Mihalopoulos Nicole L.
Published: October 2017

In 2011, an expert National Institutes of Health panel published the “Integrated Guidelines for CV Health and Risk Reduction in Children and Adolescents,” which recommended screening all children aged 9 to 11 years for dyslipidemia. It is unknown if this guideline is being followed. We surveyed members of the Utah chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to determine whether they performed universal lipid screening at well-child visits (WCV) on their patients at 9,10, or 11 years and how comfortable they were with evaluating and/or managing children with dyslipidemia. Of the 118 respondents who practiced primary care, only 18 (15%) screened all children at WCV; 86 (73%) tested “some,” most commonly children who were obese or had a positive family history. 18% were unfamiliar with the guidelines; 28% were familiar with the guidelines but felt they were “inappropriate;” 98 (84%) of the respondents said they were “very or somewhat comfortable” evaluating children with dyslipidemia.
Refusing refuge
Authors: Webber Frances
Published: October 2017

In the face of the worst refugee crisis since the second world war, the leaders of Europe are slamming the doors, enacting exclusionary policies which daily become more brutal. The controversial book Refuge by Collier (ex-World Bank) and Betts (academic in refugee studies) provides, according to the reviewer, their moral justification. Collier and Betts argue that allowing refugees into Europe is wrong and counter-productive, denying states in conflict the people they will need to rebuild post-conflict, and that refugees’ need for dignity and autonomy is best met by extending special economic zones in nearby host countries to provide opportunities for work.
Using dampers to mitigate thrust forces during carbon-fibre reinforced polymer drilling: Experimental and finite element evaluation
Authors: Wang Gong-Dong , Melly Stephen Kirwa , Li Nan
Published: October 2017

The current most favourable material to aerospace industry is the carbon-fibre reinforced polymer composite. Drilling of carbon-fibre reinforced polymer to facilitate holes for component assembly subjects it to myriad of failures with the most severe one being delamination. Thrust force involved during the drilling process has been found to bear a greater responsibility for delamination damage. The elevated forces exceed the interlaminar strength of the composite laminates leading to separation of layers. This work proposes the use of spring dampers as a means of reducing the thrust forces. In order to arrive at a conclusion, two experimental and finite element simulation setups have been done (one with dampers included and the other without). Thrust forces against the drilling depth were recorded for both setups and compared. Scanning electron microscope was used to examine the drilled plates for delamination at entry and exit of the holes. The results show that using dampers does reduce the thrust forces by about 25% and that the forces are higher towards the exit of the hole which explains the elevated push-down delamination. The experimental and finite element simulation results for forces were found to agree reasonably, hence validating the finite element model.
Analysis of the waste selective collection at drop-off systems: Case study including the income level and the seasonal variation
Authors: Gallardo A , Carlos M , Colomer FJ , Edo-Alcón N
Published: October 2017

There are several factors which have an influence in the selective collection of the municipal waste. To define a selective collection system, the waste generation pattern should be firstly determined and these factors should be analyzed in depth. This paper tries to analyze the economic income level and the seasonal variation on the collection and the purity of light-packaging waste to determine actions to improve the waste management plan of a town. In the first stage of the work, waste samples of the light-packaging containers were collected in two zones of the town with different economic characteristics in different seasons during one year. In the second stage, the samples were characterized to analyze the composition and purity of the waste. They were firstly separated into four fractions: metals; plastic; beverage cartons; and misplaced materials. The misplaced fraction was in its turn separated into cardboard, rubber and leather, inert waste, organic matter, paper, hazardous waste, clothes and shoes, glass and others. The plastic fraction was separated into five types of plastics and the metal fraction into three. In the third stage, the data have been analyzed and conclusions have been extracted. The main result is that the quality of the light-packaging fraction collected in these zones during both seasons were similar. This methodology can be extrapolated to towns with similar characteristics. It will be useful when implementing a system to collect the waste selectively and to develop actions to achieve a good participation in the selective collection of the waste.
Social Security Retirement Income Replacement Rates
Authors: Kilgour John G.
Published: October 2017

One of the main retirement income concerns is adequacy, which is generally measured as the percentage of preretirement income replaced by the retirement benefit. For defined-benefit pension plans the replacement rate or ratio is measured against some measure of final income. For Social Security (more accurately OASDI), however, the Social Security Administration uses a complex measure of career-average earnings. Since Social Security is the main, and often the only, source of retirement income for many millions of Americans, the question of adequacy is paramount. The benefit formula is heavily skewed in favor of lifetime low-income earners. In addition, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and state augmentations add to the retirement income of low-income claimants. The combination of OASDI and SSI benefits result in retirement income that, while not overly generous, is adequate. This article examines the origins and development of OASDI and SSI with a focus on benefit adequacy.
Model based predictive engine torque control for improved drivability
Authors: Atabay Orhan , Ötkür Murat , Ereke İsmail M
Published: October 2017

Elasticity of the various driveline components and backlash originating from gear reduction mechanisms and fasteners may cause torsional vibrations resulting in unintended shunt and shuffle behaviours, when a vehicle is subjected to an acceleration change request. As a result of recent improvements to engine control structures and computational capability developments during the last few decades, the idea of using generated brake torque control has been considered a state of the art research topic among academic researchers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). In order to improve transient vehicle response to an acceleration change manoeuvre, a novel engine generated brake torque based model predictive control (MPC) algorithm with an additional anti-shuffle control element has been developed to manipulate the pedal map oriented torque demand signal in an automotive powertrain application. A four mass powertrain model was built and model validation considering longitudinal vehicle dynamics was performed with vehicle level tests using a tip-in followed by a tip out acceleration pedal signal input manoeuvre. Comparison of simulation results and vehicle test data shows that the proposed model is capable of capturing the vehicle acceleration profile revealing unintended error states for the specified input signals. MPC structures based on three mass vehicle models (derived from the four mass model via subtracting tyre dynamics due to high order nonlinearities at the tyre model) was developed in a “MATLAB/Simulink” environment to obtain a smooth and responsive acceleration profile. The MPC controller delivers signal states with the expected performance metrics without error states such as excessive jerks and shuffles. An additional engine to wheel speed difference based proportional controller is employed in order to further reduce powertrain oscillations without compromising from overall system response speed resulting in a comfortable drive.
Precariousness and call centre work: Operators’ perceptions in Portugal and Brazil
Authors: Costa Hermes Augusto , Costa Elizardo Scarpati
Published: October 2017

We present comparative research on operators’ perceptions of the work process in two telecommunications call centres, one in Portugal and the other in Brazil. We argue that, despite the different pace of economic performance in recent years in Portugal and Brazil, there is a common trend towards casualization. Despite differences between the two call centres, both case studies show a process that imposes standardized behaviour. By exploring the subjective perceptions of call centre operators, we contribute to the ‘pessimistic’ (but probably more realistic) strand of literature on call centre work.
The challenge of human challenge research models: A Canadian perspective
Authors: Murdoch Blake , Caulfield Timothy
Published: October 2017

Research in which healthy volunteers are exposed to pathogens or other aetiologic agents that may cause disease remains controversial. Proponents suggest such work is key to understanding pathways of infection and the efficacy of vaccines and treatments. Yet, this research creates ethical and legal issues surrounding consent, participant vulnerability and the potential for harm. Moreover, public trust in research could be compromised if avoidable, serious harm occurs, making challenge research risky. Among Canadian research ethics guidelines, overarching messages are that participant interests cannot be subservient to those of research and that risks must be proportional to likely benefits. Moreover, common law fiduciary obligations to clinical research participants and the deterrent effect of potential tortious or criminal negligence act to reinforce the idea that challenge protocols should be a strategy of last resort. Researchers could benefit from clear guidance directly addressing the unique issues with challenge research.
Another origin of the Theology of Hope? Moltmann’s dependence on Mircea Eliade
Authors: Coombe Cameron
Published: October 2017

The influence of Mircea Eliade on Moltmann’s work has largely been overlooked in scholarship. This article seeks to address this, providing an exposition of the themes of history and historicism in Eliade’s work and demonstrating how Moltmann draws upon these to develop his concept of ‘epiphany religion’, especially in Theology of Hope but also at later stages in his career. Eliade’s scholarship also bolsters Moltmann’s claims regarding the uniqueness of promissory history in its contention that non-Judeo-Christian societies reject history in the same way that ‘Greek’ society does, allowing Moltmann to situate his polemics against Greek philosophy in a universal context, and giving Moltmann’s theological claims an air of respectability insofar as they are supported by secular scholarship. The second part of the article critically evaluates Moltmann’s dependence on Eliade in regard to generalized claims in both of their works.
Vibration suppression in multi-body systems by means of disturbance filter design methods
Authors: Copot Cosmin , Ionescu Clara , Vanlanduit Steve , De Keyser Robin
Published: October 2017

This paper addresses the problem of interaction in mechanical multi-body systems and shows that subsystem interaction can be considerably minimized while increasing performance if an efficient disturbance model is used. In order to illustrate the advantage of the proposed intelligent disturbance filter, two linear model based techniques are considered: IMC and the model based predictive (MPC) approach. As an illustrative example, multivariable mass-spring-damper and quarter car systems are presented. An adaptation mechanism is introduced to account for linear parameter varying LPV conditions. In this paper we show that, even if the IMC control strategy was not designed for MIMO systems, if a proper filter is used, IMC can successfully deal with disturbance rejection in a multivariable system, and the results obtained are comparable with those obtained by a MIMO predictive control approach. The results suggest that both methods perform equally well, with similar numerical complexity and implementation effort.
Condition 9 and 10 Tests of Model Confirmation: A Review of James, Mulaik, and Brett (1982) and Contemporary Alternatives
Authors: Williams Larry J. , O’Boyle Ernest H. , Yu Jia (Joya)
Published: October 2017

Structural equation modeling (SEM) serves as one of the most important advances in the social sciences in the past 40 years. Through a combination of factor analysis and path analysis, SEM allows organizational researchers to test causal models while accounting for random and nonrandom (bias) measurement error. SEM is now one of the most commonly used analytic techniques and its modern day ubiquity can be traced in large part to a series of intellectual contributions by Larry James. The current article focuses on the seminal work, James, Mulaik, and Brett (1982), and the unique contribution of the “conditions” required for appropriate confirmatory inference with the path and latent variable models. We discuss the importance of James et al.’s Condition 9 and 10 tests, systematically review 14 years of studies using SEM in leading management journals and reanalyze results based on new techniques that extend James et al. (1982), and conclude with suggestions for improved Condition 9 and 10 assessments.
Structural behavior of FRP-strengthened reinforced concrete shear walls with openings using finite element method
Authors: Aslani Khaled , Kohnehpooshi Omid
Published: October 2017

Reinforced concrete shear walls with features such as high stiffness, good performance in earthquakes, ductility, and high bearing capacity in earthquake-prone regions are widely used as convenient and reliable structural systems in medium- and high-rise reinforced concrete buildings. However, due to architectural limitations, the use of opening in shear walls is unavoidable. Fiber-reinforced polymer sheets with unique structural characteristics and easy implementation have been used in recent years for rehabilitating concrete structures, especially shear walls. In this study, using the finite element method, the effect of openings with different sizes and locations in reinforced concrete shear walls was studied. The effect of retrofitting specimens with openings by carbon fiber–reinforced polymer sheets with different patterns and thicknesses on the structural behavior of shear walls was also investigated. According to the results, opening reduced the bearing capacity, energy absorption capacity, and stiffness but increased wall displacement. Different reinforcement patterns and different thicknesses of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer sheets had different effects on improved structural behavior of shear walls. Reinforcement with carbon fiber–reinforced polymer sheets is one of the effective ways to rehabilitate concrete shear walls with opening.