bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Fuzzy Reliability Analysis of Multistate Systems Based on Universal Generating Function
Authors: Gao Peng , Xie Liyang , Hu Wei , Liu Chang , Feng Jinzhao
Published: May 2018

Considering the fuzziness of load, strength, operational states, and state probability, reliability models of multistate systems are developed based on universal generating function (UGF). The fuzzy UGF of load and the fuzzy UGF of strength are proposed in this paper, which are used to derive the fuzzy component UGF and the fuzzy system UGF. By defining the decomposition operator and the inner product operator, failure dependence and effects of multiple load applications are taken into account in the established reliability models. Moreover, dynamic fuzzy reliability models of multistate systems are constructed considering the strength degradation of components. The results show that failure dependence and the effects of multiple load applications have significant impacts on system reliability, which considerably decrease system reliability and increase the fuzziness of system reliability under low performance requirements. Besides, in the dynamic reliability analysis of multistate systems, strength degradation dependence could lead to large computational error.
Quantitative Measurement of Path Loss Model Adaptation Using the Least Squares Method in an Urban DVB-T2 System
Authors: Keawbunsong Pitak , Duangsuwan Sarun , Supanakoon Pichaya , Promwong Sathaporn
Published: May 2018

The aim of this paper was to propose quantitative measurement of path loss model adaptation in urban radio propagation for a second-generation, terrestrial digital video broadcasting standard (DVB-T2) system. The measurement data was analyzed using data processing based on the least squares (LS) method to verify the probabilistic quantitation of realistic data measurement such as mean error (ME), root mean square error (RMSE), and standard deviation of error (SD), as well as relative error (RE). To distinguish the experimental evaluation, the researchers compared between the conventional Hata path loss model and the proposed model. The result showed that path loss based on the proposed model was more accurate in predicting the quantitative measurement of propagation data properly.
Are Janus Kinase Inhibitors Superior over Classic Biologic Agents in RA Patients?
Authors: Kotyla Przemyslaw J.
Published: May 2018

The Janus Kinases (JAKs) are a family of intracellular tyrosine kinases that provide transmission signals from cytokine, interferons, and many hormones receptors to the nucleus resulting in synthesis of many biologically active compounds and changing cell metabolism and function. That was theoretical background to synthetize the JAK inhibitors (Jakinibs). In recent years a substantial battery of evidence has been collected indicating the potential role of Jakinibs to interact with the specific elements of the immune system, therefore changing the inflammatory response. JAK kinase blockade offers a unique opportunity to block most of the key cytokines enabling the deep interaction into immune system functioning. Following discovery first Jakinibs were intensively studied in various forms of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, and finally two Jakinibs tofacitinib and Baricitinib have been approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Some clinical data indicated that under special circumstances Jakinibs may be even superior to biologics in the treatment of RA; however this suggestion should be verified in large clinical and observational studies.
Neutrino Emission from Cooper Pairs at Finite Temperatures
Authors: Leinson Lev B.
Published: May 2018

A brief review is given of the current state of the problem of neutrino pair emission through neutral weak currents caused by the Cooper pairs breaking and formation (PBF) in superfluid baryon matter at thermal equilibrium. The cases of singlet-state pairing with isotropic superfluid gap and spin-triplet pairing with an anisotropic gap are analyzed with allowance for the anomalous weak interactions caused by superfluidity. It is shown that taking into account the anomalous weak interactions in both the vector and axial channels is very important for a correct description of neutrino energy losses through the PBF processes. The anomalous contributions lead to an almost complete suppression of the PBF neutrino emission in spin-singlet superfluids and strong reduction of the PBF neutrino losses in the spin-triplet superfluid neutron matter, which considerably slows down the cooling rate of neutron stars with superfluid cores.
Mutagenicity and Acute Oral Toxicity Test for Herbal Poultry Feed Supplements
Authors: Srinivasa Rao Boddapati , Chandrasekaran C. V. , Srikanth H. S. , Sasikumar Murugan , Edwin Jothie R. , Haseena Begum , Bharathi Bethapudi , Selvam Ramasamy , Prashanth D’Souza
Published: May 2018

Herbal products are being used and trusted globally for thousands of years for their health benefits and limited side effects. Globally, a general belief amongst the consumers is that herbal supplements are always safe because they are “natural.” But later, research reveals that they may not be safe. This raises concern on their safety and implications for their use as feed supplement or medicine. Toxicity testing can reveal some of the risks that may be associated with use of herbs, therefore avoiding potential harmful effects. The present study was designed to investigate five poultry feed supplements (PFS), EGMAX® (to revitalize ovarian activity), FEED-X™ (feed efficiency enhancer), KOLIN PLUS™ (natural replacer of synthetic choline chloride), PHYTOCEE® (natural defence enhancer), and STODI® (to prevent and control loose droppings), for their possible mutagenicity and toxicity. Bacterial reverse mutation (BRMT) and acute oral toxicity tests were employed to assess the PFS for their possible mutagenicity and toxicity. Results indicated that the PFS were devoid of mutagenic effects in BRMT and showed higher safety profile in rodent acute oral toxicity test.
miR-590-3p Promotes Ovarian Cancer Growth and Metastasis via a Novel FOXA2–Versican Pathway
Authors: Salem Mohamed , O'Brien Jacob A. , Bernaudo Stefanie , Shawer Heba , Ye Gang , Brkić Jelena , Amleh Asma , Vanderhyden Barbara C. , Refky Basel , Yang Burton B. , Krylov Sergey N. , Peng Chun
Published: May 2018

miRNAs play important roles in gene regulation, and their dysregulation is associated with many diseases, including epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). In this study, we determined the expression and function of miR-590-3p in EOC. miR-590-3p levels were higher in high-grade carcinoma when compared with low-grade or tumors with low malignant potential. Interestingly, plasma levels of miR-590-3p were significantly higher in patients with EOC than in subjects with benign gynecologic disorders. Transient transfection of miR-590-3p mimics or stable transfection of mir-590 increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In vivo studies revealed that mir-590 accelerated tumor growth and metastasis. Using a cDNA microarray, we identified forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) and versican (VCAN) as top downregulated and upregulated genes by mir-590, respectively. miR-590-3p targeted FOXA2 3′ UTR to suppress its expression. In addition, knockdown or knockout of FOXA2 enhanced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Overexpression of FOXA2 decreased, whereas knockout of FOXA2 increased VCAN mRNA and protein levels, which was due to direct binding and regulation of the VCAN gene by FOXA2. Interrogation of the TCGA ovarian cancer database revealed a negative relationship between FOXA2 and VCAN mRNA levels in EOC tumors, and high FOXA2/low VCAN mRNA levels in tumors positively correlated with patient survival. Finally, overexpression of FOXA2 or silencing of VCAN reversed the effects of mir-590. These findings demonstrate that miR-590-3p promotes EOC development via a novel FOXA2–VCAN pathway.

Significance: Low FOXA2/high VCAN levels mediate the tumor-promoting effects of miR-590-3p and negatively correlate with ovarian cancer survival. Cancer Res; 78(15); 4175–90. ©2018 AACR.
A PDX/Organoid Biobank of Advanced Prostate Cancers Captures Genomic and Phenotypic Heterogeneity for Disease Modeling and Therapeutic Screening
Authors: Beshiri Michael L. , Tice Caitlin M. , Tran Crystal , Nguyen Holly M. , Sowalsky Adam G. , Agarwal Supreet , Jansson Keith H. , Yang Qi , McGowen Kerry M. , Yin JuanJuan , Alilin Aian Neil , Karzai Fatima H. , Dahut William L. , Corey Eva , Kelly Kathleen
Published: May 2018

Purpose: Prostate cancer translational research has been hampered by the lack of comprehensive and tractable models that represent the genomic landscape of clinical disease. Metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) recapitulate the genetic and phenotypic diversity of the disease. We sought to establish a representative, preclinical platform of PDX-derived organoids that is experimentally facile for high-throughput and mechanistic analysis.

Experimental Design: Using 20 models from the LuCaP mCRPC PDX cohort, including adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine lineages, we systematically tested >20 modifications to prostate organoid conditions. Organoids were evaluated for genomic and phenotypic stability and continued reliance on the AR signaling pathway. The utility of the platform as a genotype-dependent model of drug sensitivity was tested with olaparib and carboplatin.

Results: All PDX models proliferated as organoids in culture. Greater than 50% could be continuously cultured long-term in modified conditions; however, none of the PDXs could be established long-term as organoids under previously reported conditions. In addition, the modified conditions improved the establishment of patient biopsies over current methods. The genomic heterogeneity of the PDXs was conserved in organoids. Lineage markers and transcriptomes were maintained between PDXs and organoids. Dependence on AR signaling was preserved in adenocarcinoma organoids, replicating a dominant characteristic of CRPC. Finally, we observed maximum cytotoxicity to the PARP inhibitor olaparib in BRCA2−/− organoids, similar to responses observed in patients.

Conclusions: The LuCaP PDX/organoid models provide an expansive, genetically characterized platform to investigate the mechanisms of pathogenesis as well as therapeutic responses and their molecular correlates in mCRPC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(17); 4332–45. ©2018 AACR.
Clonal Hematopoiesis: A New Layer in the Liquid Biopsy Story in Lung Cancer
Authors: Bauml Joshua , Levy Benjamin
Published: May 2018

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a unique biospecimen that contains multiple sources of DNA, including tumor, germline, fetal, and others. Clonal hematopoiesis, a process that leads to expansion of mutations in peripheral blood cells, is an additional source of DNA that adds a layer of complexity when interpreting results. Clin Cancer Res; 24(18); 4352–4. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Hu et al., p. 4437
TAS-114, a First-in-Class Dual dUTPase/DPD Inhibitor, Demonstrates Potential to Improve Therapeutic Efficacy of Fluoropyrimidine-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Yano Wakako , Yokogawa Tatsushi , Wakasa Takeshi , Yamamura Keisuke , Fujioka Akio , Yoshisue Kunihiro , Matsushima Eiji , Miyahara Seiji , Miyakoshi Hitoshi , Taguchi Junko , Chong Khoon Tee , Takao Yayoi , Fukuoka Masayoshi , Matsuo Kenichi
Published: May 2018

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antimetabolite and exerts antitumor activity via intracellularly and physiologically complicated metabolic pathways. In this study, we designed a novel small molecule inhibitor, TAS-114, which targets the intercellular metabolism of 5-FU to enhance antitumor activity and modulates catabolic pathway to improve the systemic availability of 5-FU. TAS-114 strongly and competitively inhibited deoxyuridine 5′-triphosphate nucleotidohydrolase (dUTPase), a gatekeeper protein preventing aberrant base incorporation into DNA, and enhanced the cytotoxicity of fluoropyrimidines in cancer cells; however, it had little intrinsic activity. In addition, TAS-114 had moderate and reversible inhibitory activity on dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), a catabolizing enzyme of 5-FU. Thus, TAS-114 increased the bioavailability of 5-FU when coadministered with capecitabine in mice, and it significantly improved the therapeutic efficacy of capecitabine by reducing the required dose of the prodrug by dual enzyme inhibition. Enhancement of antitumor efficacy caused by the addition of TAS-114 was retained in the presence of a potent DPD inhibitor containing oral fluoropyrimidine (S-1), indicating that dUTPase inhibition plays a major role in enhancing the antitumor efficacy of fluoropyrimidine-based therapy. In conclusion, TAS-114, a dual dUTPase/DPD inhibitor, demonstrated the potential to improve the therapeutic efficacy of fluoropyrimidine. Dual inhibition of dUTPase and DPD is a novel strategy for the advancement of oral fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy for cancer treatment. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(8); 1683–93. ©2018 AACR.
Novel Fluoroindenoisoquinoline Non-Camptothecin Topoisomerase I Inhibitors
Authors: Marzi Laetitia , Agama Keli , Murai Junko , Difilippantonio Simone , James Amy , Peer Cody J. , Figg William D. , Beck Daniel , Elsayed Mohamed S.A. , Cushman Mark , Pommier Yves
Published: May 2018

Contrary to other anticancer targets, topoisomerase I (TOP1) is targeted by only one chemical class of FDA-approved drugs: topotecan and irinotecan, the derivatives of the plant alkaloid, camptothecin. The indenoisoquinolines LMP400, LMP744, and LMP776 are novel noncamptothecin TOP1 inhibitors in clinical trial, which overcome the limitations of camptothecins. To further improve metabolic stability, their methoxy groups have been replaced by fluorine, as in the fluoroindenoisoquinolines NSC 781517 (LMP517), NSC 779135 (LMP135), and NSC 779134 (LMP134). We tested the induction and stability of TOP1 cleavage complexes (TOP1cc), and the induction and persistence of DNA damage measured by histone H2AX phosphorylation (γH2AX) compared with their parent compounds LMP744 and LMP776 in leukemia CCRF-CEM and colon carcinoma HCT116 cells. The fluoroindenoisoquinolines induced TOP1cc and γH2AX at nanomolar concentrations, and at higher levels than the parent indenoisoquinolines. The fluoroindenoisoquinoline LMP135 showed greater antitumor activity than topotecan in small-cell lung cancer cell H82 xenografts. It was also more potent than topotecan in the NCI-60 cancer cell line panel. Bioinformatics tools (http://discover.nci.nih.gov/cellminercdb) were used to investigate the following: (i) the correlations of fluoroindenoisoquinolines activity with other drugs, and (ii) genomic determinants of response in the NCI-60. The activity of the fluoroindenoisoquinolines was mostly correlated with camptothecin derivatives and the parent indenoisoquinolines, consistent with TOP1 targeting. Genomic analyses and activity assays in CCRF-CEM SLFN11–deleted cells showed that SLFN11 expression is a dominant determinant of response to LMP135. This study shows the potential value of the fluoroindenoisoquinolines for further development as novel anticancer agents targeting TOP1. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(8); 1694–704. ©2018 AACR.
Gramsci: história e revolução cinquenta anos da morte do revolucionário italiano nas prisões do fascismo
Authors: Coggiola Osvaldo
Published: May 2018

A s notáveis inovações de Antô­ nio Gramsci, no campo da sociologia marxista, devem ser analisadas levando-se em conta o seu objetivo principal: o esclarecimento das condições históricas para a revolução proletária. Gramsci realizou, em função disso, um verdadeiro balanço da história da era capitalista, e da teoria revolucionária (marxista) produzida nesse período. Mudanças importantes podem ser notadas entre o Gramsci que participou da fundação do PCI, logo após a revolução russa, e aquele que definiu seus principais conceitos, na prisão, depois da derrota para o fascismo
A Universidade e o poder
Authors: Cardoso Irene De Arruda Ribeiro
Published: May 2018

Este trabalho procura mostrar como a discussão sobre o poder na universidade brasileira, hoje, permanece num mesmo registro ideológico nos últimos vinte anos. Pretende identificar no chamado discurso da competência, nas diferentes conjunturas políticas, a construção de uma mesma oposição — qualidade x mediocridade, qualidade x poUtização. Ao identificar a permanência do mesmo registro ideológico, procura chamar a atenção para o fato de que pouco caminhamos nas discussões sobre o poder na universidade
Development of a Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnant Women
Authors: Crivellenti Lívia Castro , Zuccolotto Daniela Cristina Candelas , Sartorelli Daniela Saes
Published: May 2018

OBJECTIVE: To develop a Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnant Women (IQDAG) and to evaluate its relation with the characteristics of women treated at the Brazilian Unified Health System. METHODS: The data on food intake come from a cross-sectional study carried out with 785 adult pregnant women in the city of Ribeirão Preto, state of São Paulo, Brazil, between 2011 and 2012. The index was based on the recommendations of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, previous national dietary indexes, and the new Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. We used the ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and chi-square tests to describe the quality of the diet according to the characteristics of the mother. RESULTS: The IQDAG has nine components, and it is represented by three food groups (in servings/1,000 kcal), five nutrients, and a moderator component. A high proportion of pregnant women reached the maximum score for the components of legumes and vegetables. However, few women reached the maximum score for consumption of fresh fruits, fiber, omega-3, calcium, folate, iron, and ultra-processed foods. We verified a better quality of diet among older and eutrophic pregnant women who reported practicing more physical activity and taking dietary supplements. We also observed the highest index score among women with higher intake of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins C, E, and A, and minerals calcium, folate, and iron, as well as among those with lower intake of total fats and saturated fats. CONCLUSIONS: This dietary index is unprecedented in incorporating the recommendation of the new Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population regarding the moderation of the consumption of ultra-processed foods. It was useful in evaluating the quality of the diet of pregnant women and we verified a higher score among older and eutrophic women who reported a healthy lifestyle. Strategies are needed to promote a higher consumption of fresh fruits, foods high in fiber, omega-3, calcium, folate, iron, and minimally processed foods in pregnant women.
Suicide in Brazilian indigenous communities: clustering of cases in children and adolescents by household
Authors: Lazzarini Thomas Adriano , Gonçalves Crhistinne Cavalheiro Maymone , Benites Walter Martins , Silva Liliane Ferreira da , Tsuha Daniel Henrique , Ko Albert Icksang , Rohrbaugh Robert , Andrews Jason Randolph , Croda Julio
Published: May 2018

OBJECTIVE: To estimate age and sex-specific suicide rates, compare suicide rates between indigenous communities, and quantify the frequency of intrafamilial suicide clustering. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study involving 14,666 indigenous individuals in reservations in Dourados, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, from 2003 through 2013 using national and local census. RESULTS: The overall suicide rate was 73.4 per 100,000 person-years. Adolescent males aged 15–19 and girls aged 10–14 had the highest rates for each sex at 289.3 (95%CI 187.5–391.2) and 85.3 (95%CI 34.9–135.7), respectively. Comparing the largest reservations, Bororo had a higher suicide rate than Jaguapiru (RR = 4.83, 95%CI 2.85–8.16) and had significantly lower socioeconomic indicators including income and access to electricity. Nine of 19 suicides among children under 15 occurred in household clusters. Compared with adult suicides, a greater proportion of child (OR = 5.12, 95%CI 1.89–13.86, p = 0.001) and adolescent (OR = 3.48, 95%CI 1.29–9.44, p = 0.017) suicides occurred within household clusters. CONCLUSIONS: High rates of suicide occur among children and adolescents in these indigenous reservations, particularly in poor communities. Nearly half of child suicides occur within household clusters. These findings underscore the need for broad public health interventions and focused mental health interventions in households following a suicide.
Genetic Variant in Human PAR (Protease-Activated Receptor) 4 Enhances Thrombus Formation Resulting in Resistance to Antiplatelet Therapeutics
Authors: Tourdot Benjamin E. , Stoveken Hannah , Trumbo Derek , Yeung Jennifer , Kanthi Yogendra , Edelstein Leonard C. , Bray Paul F. , Tall Gregory G. , Holinstat Michael
Published: May 2018

Objective—

Platelet activation after stimulation of PAR (protease-activated receptor) 4 is heightened in platelets from blacks compared with those from whites. The difference in PAR4 signaling by race is partially explained by a single-nucleotide variant in PAR4 encoding for either an alanine or threonine at amino acid 120 in the second transmembrane domain. The current study sought to determine whether the difference in PAR4 signaling by this PAR4 variant is because of biased G
q
signaling and whether the difference in PAR4 activity results in resistance to traditional antiplatelet intervention.

Approach and Results—

Membranes expressing human PAR4-120 variants were reconstituted with either G
q
or G
13
to determine the kinetics of G protein activation. The kinetics of G
q
and G
13
activation were both increased in membranes expressing PAR4-Thr120 compared with those expressing PAR4-Ala120. Further, inhibiting PAR4-mediated platelet activation by targeting COX (cyclooxygenase) and P2Y
12
receptor was less effective in platelets from subjects expressing PAR4-Thr120 compared with PAR4-Ala120. Additionally, ex vivo thrombus formation in whole blood was evaluated at high shear to determine the relationship between PAR4 variant expression and response to antiplatelet drugs. Ex vivo thrombus formation was enhanced in blood from subjects expressing PAR4-Thr120 in the presence or absence of antiplatelet therapy.

Conclusions—

Together, these data support that the signaling difference by the PAR4-120 variant results in the enhancement of both G
q
and G
13
activation and an increase in thrombus formation resulting in a potential resistance to traditional antiplatelet therapies targeting COX-1 and the P2Y
12
receptor.
Interleukin 10 Treatment Ameliorates High-Fat Diet–Induced Inflammatory Atrial Remodeling and Fibrillation
Authors: Kondo Hidekazu , Abe Ichitaro , Gotoh Koro , Fukui Akira , Takanari Hiroki , Ishii Yumi , Ikebe Yuki , Kira Shintaro , Oniki Takahiro , Saito Shotaro , Aoki Kohei , Tanino Tomomi , Mitarai Kazuki , Kawano Kyoko , Miyoshi Miho , Fujinami Mami , Yoshimura Seiichiro , Ayabe Reika , Okada Norihiro , Nagano Yasuko , Akioka Hidefumi , Shinohara Tetsuji , Akiyoshi Kumiko , Masaki Takayuki , Teshima Yasushi , Yufu Kunio , Nakagawa Mikiko , Takahashi Naohiko
Published: May 2018

Background:

Obesity, characterized by systemic low-grade inflammation, is considered a well-known risk for atrial fibrillation. In fact, IL-10 (interleukin 10), which is a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine, has been reported to decrease in obese and diabetic patients. We tested the hypotheses forwarding that genetic deletion of IL-10 exacerbates high-fat diet (HFD)–induced obesity-caused atrial inflammation, lipidosis, fibrosis, and fibrillation and that IL-10 therapy inhibits this pathology.

Methods:

Eight- to 10-week-old male CL57/B6 (wild-type) mice and IL-10 knockout mice were divided into a 12-week HFD group and a 12-week normal-fat diet (NFD) group, respectively. In addition, the effect of IL-10 administration was also investigated.

RESULTS:

HFD-induced obesity for 12 weeks significantly depressed serum levels of IL-10 but were found to increase several proinflammatory cytokines in wild-type mice. Adverse atrial remodeling, including atrial inflammation, lipidosis, and fibrosis, was induced in both wild-type and IL-10 knockout mice by HFD. Vulnerability to atrial fibrillation was also significantly enhanced by HFD. With regard to epicardial and pericardial adipose tissue, the total amount of epicardial adipose tissue+pericardial adipose tissue volume was increased by HFD. Besides, proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines of epicardial adipose tissue+pericardial adipose tissue were also upregulated. In contrast, the protein level of adiponectin was downregulated by HFD. These HFD-induced obesity-caused adverse effects were further exaggerated in IL-10 knockout mice in comparison to wild-type mice. Systemic IL-10 administration markedly ameliorated HFD-induced obesity-caused left atrial remodeling and vulnerability to atrial fibrillation, in addition to improving the quality of epicardial adipose tissue+pericardial adipose tissue.

Conclusions:

Our results highlight IL-10 treatment as a potential therapeutic approach to limit the progression of HFD-induced obesity-caused atrial fibrillation.
‘Revenge for My Two Eyes’: Talion and Mimesis in the Samson Narrative
Authors: Paynter Helen
Published: May 2018

The Samson narrative is notable for its cycles of violence and revenge. Sometimes this has been understood to be an expression of lex talionis (‘an eye for an eye’); indeed, Samson appears to assert as much, though his actions do not match up to the ideal. This paper argues that while the narrator permits Samson to make this claim, he demonstrates that a far more sinister dynamic is at work: namely, Girardian mimesis and scapegoating. At the centre of the rivalry between Israel and the Philistines is Samson, ‘monsterised’ by both sides, and represented in hulk-like terms. His sexual rivalry with his Philistine ‘companions’ embodies the rivalry between the two nations. Using a Girardian hermeneutic reveals how the cycles of violence are, in fact, an escalating form of mimesis, which twice approach crisis, but conclude with Samson escaping from the scapegoating role by taking matters into his own hands.
Haunting Empty Tombs: Specters of the Emperor and Jesus in the Gospel of Mark
Authors: Ketchum Matthew James
Published: May 2018

This paper employs theories of spectrality and haunting to read the Gospel of Mark alongside textual and archaeological materials representing the Roman emperor. I argue that the relationships between the figures of Jesus and the emperor are both more subtle and complex than is typically seen by empire-critical scholarship. I show how both the Roman emperor and the Gospel of Mark’s Jesus are constructed in undecidable negotiations of life and death, absence and presence, and past, present, and future. Scenes like Jesus walking on water, the transfiguration, and the empty tomb display the spectrality of Jesus in Mark’s gospel. Ghost stories and the globalizing logic of the imperial cult do the same for the emperor. The common spectrality of the emperors and Jesus in Mark’s Gospel signals how they are both haunted by the systemic violence of Rome’s empire.
Refining the genus Rochinia A. Milne-Edwards, 1875: reinstatement of Scyramathia A. Milne-Edwards, 1880 and Anamathia Smith, 1885, and a new genus for Amathia crassa A. Milne-Edwards, 1879, with notes on its ontogeny (Crustacea: Brachyura: Epialtidae)
Authors: TAVARES MARCOS , SANTANA WILLIAM
Published: May 2018

The genus Scyramathia A. Milne-Edwards, 1880 (type species Amathia carpenteri Norman in Wyville Thomson, 1873) is herein removed from the synonymy of Rochinia A. Milne-Edwards, 1875 (type species R. gracilipes A. Milne-Edwards, 1875) and a new genus, Minyorhyncha, is established for Amathia crassa A. Milne-Edwards, 1879, a species previously placed in the genus Rochinia. The genus Anamathia Smith, 1885 (type species Amathia rissoana Roux, 1828), widely regarded as a synonym of Rochinia, is confirmed as a valid genus. The morphological differences between Rochinia (as revealed by its type species), Anamathia, Scyramathia and Minyorhyncha are discussed and illustrated. The strong ontogenetic changes in Minyorhyncha crassa n. gen., n. comb. are also discussed and illustrated. Lectotypes are selected for Rochinia gracilipes A. Milne-Edwards, 1875, and Amathia agassizii Smith, 1882, a junior synonym of Minyorhyncha crassa n. gen., n. comb.
Description of the zoeal stages of Periclimenes aegylios Grippa & d'Udekem d'Acoz, 1996 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Palaemonidae) reared in the laboratory
Authors: MUZIO GIORGIA DI , BASILE RITA , PESSANI DANIELA
Published: May 2018

The eight zoeal stages of the Mediterranean shrimp Periclimenes aegylios are described and illustrated in detail, using laboratory-reared specimens. This study improved the partial and unpublished descriptions of the zoeae of this species. The complete and accurate definition of the morphology of all the stages now allows comparison of the zoeae of P. aegylios with those of other Mediterranean Periclimenes species, as well as the allopatric Atlantic P. sagittifer, from which P. aegylios was separated in 1996.
A new garden eel, Heteroconger fugax (Congridae: Heterocongrinae), from the northwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: KOEDA KEITA , FUJII TAKUMA , MOTOMURA HIROYUKI
Published: May 2018

Heteroconger fugax sp. nov. (Congridae: Heterocongrinae) is described from a single specimen collected from Amami-oshima island, Japan. The new species is most similar to Heteroconger tomberua Castle & Randall 1999, known from Fiji and New Caledonia, in having a remarkably slender body with numerous small spots and a vertebral count close to 200. However, it can be distinguished from H. tomberua by the presence of a large distinct white blotch on the opercle; more numerous, dense spots over the entire head, including lips; ground color of body uniformly cream, without microscopic melanophores; numerous small conical cirri on the chin; and dorsal-fin origin located more posteriorly to appressed pectoral-fin tip. A survey of underwater photographs of Heteroconger on photographic database revealed H. fugax to be widely distributed in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, from the Ryukyu Archipelago to Borneo.
Better governance will lead to better taxonomy: response to Raposo et al. (2017)
Authors: GARNETT STEPHEN T. , CHRISTIDIS LES
Published: May 2018

We welcome the recent paper by Raposo et al. (2017) debating our Nature Comment on inadequacies in taxonomic governance and the impact this has on conservation and society (Garnett & Christidis 2017), as well as the opportunity to clarify our views. We admit to surprise at meanings read into our paper by Raposo et al. (2017) that we never intended and that we had not thought were there. As we have also made clear in a separate discussion of our paper (Garnett & Christidis 2018 in response to Thomson et al. 2018), we wish to make clear at the start: (i) that we have no wish to stifle taxonomic research, only to strengthen the legitimacy of its findings; and (ii) we believe that taxonomic research should not consider the consequences for conservation, or society, in its conclusions once transparent taxonomic criteria have been established (Garnett & Christidis 2007), but that taxonomists have an obligation to improve their governance to ensure taxonomic conclusions are of the highest standard.
Annotated bibliography of the parthenogenetic marbled crayfish Procambarus virginalis, a new research model, potent invader and popular pet
Authors: VOGT GÜNTER
Published: May 2018

The marbled crayfish Procambarus virginalis is a new obligately parthenogenetic species that was detected in the mid-1990s in the German aquarium trade. Since then it has become a popular pet in many countries throughout the world and a valuable laboratory model for a broad range of biological disciplines. Releases have led to the establishment of wild populations in several European countries, Madagascar and probably Japan, making marbled crayfish an interesting paradigm of evolutionarily young and ongoing bioinvasions. This article provides an annotated bibliography of the scientific and popular scientific literature on marbled crayfish from its detection until today. Each reference is assigned to a publication format and one or more biological categories. The content is shortly described and its significance for marbled crayfish research and general biology is assessed. Of the 239 references listed 140 (58.6%) deal primarily with laboratory experiments on the biology of marbled crayfish and the establishment and use of marbled crayfish as a research model, 74 (31.0%) with its biogeography, invasions and ecology and 25 (10.4%) with hobby aquarist issues and the pet trade.
A new species of Sweltsa (Plecoptera: Chloroperlidae) from Sichuan Province of southwestern China
Authors: DONG WENBIN , CUI JIANXIN , LI WEIHAI
Published: May 2018

A new chloroperlid stonefly species, Sweltsa brevihamula sp. nov. from Sichuan Province of southwestern China is described and illustrated. We also provide a provisional key to the known Sweltsa males of China.
Both non-type species of Molytophilus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Molytinae) are transferred to Oreoscotus
Authors: GREBENNIKOV VASILY V.
Published: May 2018

Type specimens of all three nominal species of the East African genus Molytophilus Hartmann are studied and illustrated. The genus is taxonomically restricted to include only the type species M. carinatus Hartman known from two collecting events in Tanzania and Somalia. Both other species of Molytophilus, described from Ethiopia, are herein transferred to the genus Oreoscotus as O. affinis (Hustache, 1936) comb. n. and O. puncticollis (Hustache, 1936) comb. n. A lectotype is designated for Molytophilus carinatus Hartmann. Type specimens of all three nominal species are illustrated.
New replacement name for Anaperus Graff, 1911 (Acoelomorpha: Acoela: Convolutidae)
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ J. A. RIVAZ
Published: May 2018

The acoel genus Anaperus was established by Graff in 1911 for Amphiscolops gardineri Graff, 1910, making Anaperus gardineri (Graff, 1910) its type species. Since then, six more valid species were described: A. tvaerminnensis (Luther, 1912); A. sulcatus Beklemischev, 1914; A. rubellus Westblad, 1945; A. biaculeatus Boguta, 1970; A. ornatus Beltagi, 2001; A. singularis Hooge & Smith, 2004. A seventh species, A. australis Westblad, 1952, is incertae sedis (Dörjes & Karling, 1975). The genus was placed to family Convolutidae Graff, 1905, until Dörjes (1968) erected the family Anaperidae on the basis of a distinctive male copulatory apparatus. Jondelius et al. (2011) returned it to Convolutidae on the basis of molecular–sequence data.
A comparison of quasi-static indentation and low-velocity impact on composite overwrapped pressure vessels
Authors: Allen Trevor , Ahmed Sharif , Hepples Warren , Reed Philippa A , Sinclair Ian , Spearing Mark
Published: May 2018

The equivalence of quasi-static indentation and low-velocity impact loading regimes has been assessed for composite overwrapped pressure vessels. Test specimens were assessed in detail in terms of the force–displacement response, and micro-focus computed tomography was used for qualitative and quantitative assessment of the associated damage to the constituent materials/interfaces. The results show that the force–displacement response follows an essentially similar pattern between the two loading regimes (within 10% for all cases). Quantitative assessment of the projected composite damage area and permanent deformation of the aluminium substrate as a function of peak indentor displacement also showed a high degree of equivalence between the loading regimes. It is concluded that quasi-static indentation represents a usable analogue for mechanistic assessment of low-velocity impact damage in the tested composite overwrapped pressure vessels.
Patient perspectives of being detained under section 136 of the Mental Health Act: Findings from a qualitative study in London
Authors: Sondhi Arun , Luger Lisa , Toleikyte Lina , Williams Emma
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Detention under section 136(1) of the Mental Health Act 1983 allows for the police to arrest a person from a public place and remove them to a ‘place of safety’, typically an emergency department or mental-health unit if it is ‘in the interests of that person or for the protection of other persons in immediate need of care or control’. Aims/objective: The aim of this study was to describe the views and perceptions of the process for people with lived experience of mental distress who have been detained under section 136 of the Mental Health Act 1983.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a non-probability sample of people with lived experience of mental distress who have been detained under section 136 across Greater London. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed using grounded theory. Fifty-eight people with lived experience of mental distress detained under section 136, including four carers, participated in this study.

Results

Three interwoven themes were identified: (a) process or procedural issues; (b) the professional–patient relationship; and (c) the importance of a supportive therapeutic environment.

Conclusion

The length of time, multiple assessment points and processes juxtapose against the need for a humane physical environment and supportive therapeutic interactions from all professional agencies. It is unclear how changes proposed in the Policing and Crime Act 2017 will address these patient needs.
Understanding Therapists’ Work With Suicidal Patients: An Examination of Qualitative Data
Authors: Monahan Maureen F. , Crowley Kevin J. , Arnkoff Diane B. , Glass Carol R. , Jobes David A.
Published: May 2018

The collaborative assessment and management of suicidality (CAMS) serves as a framework for maintaining a collaborative relationship between the therapist and patient. This study used an original coding manual to examine responses to open-ended questions to better understand the ways in which therapists use CAMS collaboratively as well as their reasons for adhering (or not adhering) to certain aspects of the framework. Results suggest differences in treatment application based on therapist characteristics including amount of experience, intensity of training received, and experience of a patient suicide attempt. Implications of this research include informing therapists interested in using the CAMS framework about the specific ways in which implementation can be made collaborative. Further, this research helps to shed light on how experiencing a client’s death by suicide can impact therapists’ future work with suicidal clients.
Intersections of Home, Health, and Social Engagement in Old Age: Formal Volunteering as a Protective Factor to Health After Relocation
Authors: Gonzales Ernest , Shen Huei-Wern , Perry Tam E. , Wang Yi
Published: May 2018

This study aims to further our understanding of formal volunteering as a protective mechanism for health in the context of housing relocation and to explore race, gender, and education as moderators. A quasi-experimental design evaluated the effects of volunteering on older adults’ health (self-report health, number of instrumental activities of daily living [IADLs], and depressive symptoms) among individuals who relocated but did not volunteer at Time 1 ( N = 682) in the Health and Retirement Study (2008–2010). Propensity score weighting examined health differences at Time 2 between 166 volunteers (treated) and 516 nonvolunteers (controlled). Interaction terms tested moderation. Individuals who moved and engaged in volunteering reported higher levels of self-rated health and fewer IADL difficulties compared to the control group. Race moderated the relationship between volunteering and depressive symptoms, while gender moderated the relationship between volunteering and self-assessed health. Formal volunteering protects different dimensions of health after relocation. Volunteering was particularly beneficial for females and older Whites.
Factors associated with the size of the adhesio interthalamica based on 3.0-T magnetic resonance images
Authors: Yasaka Koichiro , Akai Hiroyuki , Kunimatsu Akira , Kiryu Shigeru , Abe Osamu
Published: May 2018

Background

Adhesio interthalamica (AI) is a small structure connecting bilateral thalami.

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of patient age, sex, and lateral diameter of the third ventricle on the long diameter of the AI using multivariate analyses based on magnetic resonance (MR) images obtained with 3.0-T scanners.

Material and Methods

This clinical retrospective study included images of 153 patients who underwent MR examination using 3.0-T scanners. The long diameter of the AI and lateral diameter of the third ventricle were measured on images in the mid-sagittal plane and axial plane at the anterior commissure, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

AI was observed in 138 patients (70 men, 68 women; mean age = 63.7 ± 13.7 years; mean AI size =5.34 ± 1.63 mm). By univariate analyses, patient age (r = −0.262, P = 0.002), sex ( P = 0.010), and lateral diameter of the third ventricle (r = −0.642, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with the long diameter of the AI. With multiple linear regression analyses with a stepwise selection of parameters, only the lateral diameter of the third ventricle (estimate = −0.432, P < 0.001) was significantly associated with the long diameter of the AI. The lateral diameter of the third ventricle was longer in patients without AI (15 patients) than in those with AI ( P = 0.006).

Conclusion

The lateral diameter of the third ventricle was a major factor negatively associated with the long diameter of the AI.
Diagnostic value of MRI signs in differentiating Ewing sarcoma from osteomyelitis
Authors: Kasalak Ömer , Overbosch Jelle , Adams Hugo JA , Dammann Amelie , Dierckx Rudi AJO , Jutte Paul C , Kwee Thomas C
Published: May 2018

Background

The value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signs in differentiating Ewing sarcoma from osteomyelitis has not be thoroughly investigated.

Purpose

To investigate the value of various MRI signs in differentiating Ewing sarcoma from osteomyelitis.

Material and Methods

Forty-one patients who underwent MRI because of a bone lesion of unknown nature with a differential diagnosis that included both Ewing sarcoma and osteomyelitis were included. Two observers assessed several MRI signs, including the transition zone of the bone lesion, the presence of a soft-tissue mass, intramedullary and extramedullary fat globules, and the penumbra sign.

Results

Diagnostic accuracies for discriminating Ewing sarcoma from osteomyelitis were 82.4% and 79.4% for the presence of a soft-tissue mass, and 64.7% and 58.8% for a sharp transition zone of the bone lesion, for readers 1 and 2 respectively. Inter-observer agreement with regard to the presence of a soft-tissue mass and the transition zone of the bone lesion were moderate (κ = 0.470) and fair (κ = 0.307), respectively. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the diameter of the soft-tissue mass (if present) were 0.829 and 0.833, for readers 1 and 2 respectively. Mean inter-observer difference in soft-tissue mass diameter measurement ± limits of agreement was 35.0 ± 75.0 mm. Diagnostic accuracies of all other MRI signs were all < 50%.

Conclusion

Presence and size of a soft-tissue mass, and sharpness of the transition zone, are useful MRI signs to differentiate Ewing sarcoma from osteomyelitis, but inter-observer agreement is relatively low. Other MRI signs are of no value in this setting.
Le BMS, Contrepoint
Authors: Schiltz Marie-Ange
Published: May 2018

En contrepoint à l’histoire du BMS brossée par Karl van Meter, Marie-Ange Schiltz s’interroge avec humour sur la pérennité de cette revue, créée par quatre ingénieurs de recherche au début des années 1980.
In the Mouths of Babes
Authors: Throssell Katharine
Published: May 2018

This article explores the development of a methodological approach to interviewing children based on semi-directive projective interviews, as used in my PhD entitled Child and Nation (2012). It raises some of the ethical, epistemological and practical hurdles when interviewing children in middle childhood and presents the solutions that were found to address these issues.
Presentation of the Software Program SONAL
Authors: Alber Alex
Published: May 2018

This article presents the main functions of the software program SONAL ( www.sonal-info.com ), outlining its fundamental logic and the contexts in which it may be useful as part of a sociological investigation. The article begins by showing how Sonal allows the researcher to construct a corpus directly based on audio recordings, which can be coded thematically via a system of graphical markers positioned on the audio itself, and then annotated or re-transcribed in the synchronised way. The article then demonstrates how this logic allows the organisation of the work to be modified and enables the creation of corpora that are fully audio-textual, which potentially enriches the dialogue the researcher has with his or her material. Finally, we will present the different analytic tools proposed within the program, which may concern the coding of the recordings, their re-transcription, or the dynamic of conversations between the interviewer and the respondent(s). In so doing, Sonal borrows from different analytical logics and encourages dialogue between them.
Rapid Muscle Loss Negatively Impacts Survival in Critically Ill Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Ju Sunmi , Choi Sun Mi , Park Young Sik , Lee Chang-Hoon , Lee Sang-Min , Yoo Chul-Gyu , Kim Young Whan , Han Sung Koo , Lee Jinwoo
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

To assess the impact of rapid muscle loss before admission to intensive care unit (ICU) in critically ill patients with cirrhosis.

Materials and Methods:

Patients with cirrhosis who had undergone 2 or more recent computed tomography scans before admission to the medical ICU were included. Muscle cross-sectional area at the level of the third lumbar vertebra was quantified using OsiriX software. The rate of muscle mass change and skeletal muscle index (SMI) were also calculated. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate the association between muscle loss and mortality.

Results:

Among 125 patients, 113 (90.4%) patients were classified as having sarcopenia. The mean body mass index was 22.6 (3.9) kg/m2. Thirty-nine (31.2%) patients were within the normal range for muscle mass change, while 86 (68.8%) patients demonstrated rapid decline in muscle mass before admission to the ICU. Patients with rapid muscle loss showed high ICU mortality (59.3%) and in-hospital mortality (77.9%). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that ICU mortality and in-hospital mortality were independently associated with malignancy, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score, SMI, and rapid muscle loss.

Conclusion:

Rapid muscle decline is correlated with increased ICU mortality and in-hospital mortality in critically ill patients with cirrhosis.
Frequency and temperature-dependent impedance spectroscopy of PVA/PEG polymer blend film
Authors: Nangia Rakhi , Shukla Neeraj K , Sharma Ambika
Published: May 2018

In this work, polymer blend films based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were prepared by solution casting technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed to investigate the structural details of the polymer blend. XRD pattern confirms the polycrystalline nature of the films. Sandwich structures of the type Ag-PVA/PEG-Ag were formed to study the dielectric and conduction properties in the frequency range 300 Hz–3 MHz and at different temperatures varying from 298 K to 420 K. Experimental results show that both dielectric constant ( ε′) and dielectric loss ( ε″) values were strong functions of frequency and temperature. The AC conductivity ( σAC) was found to obey the power law Aωs and correlated barrier hopping as the conduction mechanism. The imaginary part of electric modulus shows peak shifting corresponding to relaxation mechanisms. Electric modulus study was also found to support the dielectric permittivity data.