bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Language Resists. From Divergence to Language Dynamics
Authors: Ploog Katja
Published: May 2017

The volume Stability and divergence in language contact: Factors and Mechanisms edited by Braunmüller, Höder and Kühl (2014) contains eleven studies about divergence and/or stability in language contact. The contributions plead for a differential description of language development (variation, change, stability) insofar as a given contact phenomenon makes sense in a different way from various perspectives. As convergence/divergence represent more/less structural harmony between languages in contact, the deeper sense of internal and external motivations (factors, mechanisms) of these dynamics is discussed. We argue that the key entity of development is the speaker, who takes the active part in the structuring process by an in-process positioning in discourse and the long-scale elaboration of his repertoire.
A taxonomic revision of cleistocarpous species of Weissia (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta) in Japan
Authors: INOUE YUYA , TSUBOTA HIROMI
Published: May 2017

Four species, including one newly described, of Japanese cleistocarpous species of Weissia (Pottiaceae): W. exserta, W. japonica, W. kiiensis and W. parajaponica sp. nov. are recognized based on molecular phylogenetic inference and morphological reassessment. For each species, typification, description, distribution, illustrations and photographs are presented, and a key to the species is included. Rapid sporophyte modifications in Weissia and monophyletic positions of these four species are supported by the analysis using concatenated chloroplast rbcL and rps4 gene sequences. A lectotype is designated for W. controversa which is the type species of the genus, and a new combination, W. loncophylla is proposed for Trachycarpidium lonchophyllum.
Hurricane Fred (2015): Cape Verde’s First Hurricane in Modern Times: Observations, Impacts, and Lessons Learned
Authors: Jenkins Gregory S. , Brito Ester , Soares Emanuel , Chiao Sen , Lima Jose Pimenta , Tavares Benvendo , Cardoso Angelo , Evora Francisco , Monteiro Maria
Published: May 2017

During 31 August 2015, Hurricane Fred traversed through the Cape Verde islands, passing near Boa Vista and possibly making landfall over São Nicolau during the evening hours. Hurricane Fred was a category 1 storm with maximum winds of 75 kt and a sea level pressure of 986 hPa during 31 August. The African easterly wave associated with Tropical Cyclone (TC) Fred emerged from Guinea on 29 August and was named Tropical Storm Fred on 30 August. Prior to impacting Cape Verde, the storm caused the sinking of a ship and the loss of seven lives off the coast of Guinea-Bissau and damage along coastal zones of Senegal. In Cape Verde, there was no loss of life but there was damage on 7 of the 10 islands. Station data show tropical-storm-force winds in Boa Vista and Sal and hurricane-force winds in São Nicolau. Heavy precipitation with amounts in excess of 200 mm occurred on the islands of Santiago, São Nicolau, and Santo Antão. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model and Global Forecast System (GFS) were used as primary guidance several days prior to the formation of TC Fred. Challenges for protecting populations from tropical cyclones can be addressed through annual hurricane awareness and preparedness programs in several languages. This is also an adaptation strategy related to anthropogenic climate change as warming tropical oceans may increase the risk of damage and threaten populations. Radar and buoy observations are needed now, and the movement of vulnerable populations and other adaptation strategies will need to be implemented in the coming decades.
Coupled Dynamic–Thermodynamic Forcings during Tropical Cyclogenesis. Part I: Diagnostic Framework
Authors: Tang Brian H.
Published: May 2017

A diagnostic framework to investigate the role of processes around and during tropical cyclogenesis is presented. The key framework metric is the ratio of bulk differences of moist entropy over differences of angular momentum between an inner and outer region of a tropical disturbance or cyclone. This ratio is hypothesized to decrease and become negative as both the high-entropy core and low-level vortex in the inner region amplify during tropical cyclogenesis. The time tendency of this ratio can be split into two forcings: a moist entropy forcing and an angular momentum forcing. Each forcing can be further divided into components comprising differences in net advective fluxes and nonadvective boundary fluxes of moist entropy or angular momentum between each region. The framework provides a comprehensive way to compare the relative importance of processes leading to tropical cyclogenesis in a tractable, consistent manner. Suggestions on how to apply the framework to numerical model output are given.
Spatiotemporal Hydroclimate Variability in Finland: Past Trends
Authors: Lindgren Ville , Guillaume Joseph H. A. , Räsänen Timo A. , Jakkila Juho , Veijalainen Noora , Kummu Matti
Published: May 2017

Over the past decades, Finland has experienced changes in its climate: temperature and precipitation have increased, resulting in varying runoff patterns. These trends are well studied, but the changes in interannual variability are less known, despite their importance for understanding climate change. This research aims to assess spatiotemporal changes in variability of temperature, precipitation, and runoff for 1962–2014 at the subbasin scale in Finland. Temporal changes in variability were analyzed by constructing moving-window median absolute deviation time series at annual and seasonal scales. Subbasins with similar patterns of temporal variability were identified using principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Presence of monotonic trends in variability was tested. Distinct areas with similar patterns of statistically significant changes in variability were found. Decreases in annual, winter, and summer temperature variability were discovered across Finland, in southern Finland, and in northern Finland, respectively. Precipitation variability increased in autumn in northern Finland. It also decreased in winter and spring in northern and central parts of Finland. Runoff variability increased in winter in most parts of Finland and in summer in the central parts, but decreased in spring in southern Finland. Comparison with existing studies illustrates that trends in mean climate and its variability do not necessarily match, highlighting the importance of addressing both aspects. The findings of this study provide new information on hydroclimatic variability in Nordic conditions and improve the possibility to adapt and predict the changes in hydroclimatic conditions, including weather extremes.
Introduction: Making and Unmaking Neighborhood Boundaries in Postwar U.S. Cities
Authors: Gutman Marta
Published: May 2017

This essay introduces the theme of this special issue, “Making and Unmaking Neighborhood Boundaries in Postwar U.S. Cities,” by tracing the enduring meanings of the words, neighbor, neighborliness, and neighborhood, and relating them to community, place, conduct, and the idea of dwelling, important in Henri Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space. The four case studies in this issue highlight places, where neighborhood formation and boundary making stand out in the historical production of space, and are examples of the benefits of the recent spatial turn in urban history. By examining neighborhoods in San Francisco, Atlanta, and New York City, the authors topple assumptions that prop up postwar urban history and demonstrate the relevance of historical studies of neighborhoods to the crises of the present moment (and the need for more of the same).
To Collect and Preserve: The State of State-Level CBA Collections in the United States
Authors: Geraci Aliqae , DelRosso Jim
Published: May 2017

In order to evaluate the preservation and accessibility of public sector collective bargaining documentation in the United States, the authors conducted a fifty-state survey of public sector collective bargaining agreement (CBA) collections. The study generated relevant data in four key areas: the presence of such collections, the scope of existing collections with regard to covered employees, the depth of those collections when compared with historical collective bargaining in a given state, and the relationship between a perceived legal mandate for collection and the presence of such collections. The authors discuss the public policy implications of their findings, and areas for further study, action, and advocacy.
Diagnostic Value of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Quantification in the Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Pandey Niraj Nirmal , Pradhan Gaurav Shanker , Manchanda Alpana , Garg Anju
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of ultrasound elastography using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) quantification in characterizing and differentiating malignant versus benign thyroid nodules. A total of 40 thyroid nodules were evaluated with conventional sonography and ultrasound elastography using ARFI quantification. The final diagnosis was obtained from histologic findings. A total of 14 malignant and 26 benign nodules were diagnosed on the basis of histologic examination. Majority of the malignant thyroid nodules demonstrated presence of intranodular vascular flow, hypoechoic echotexture, absent halo, irregular margins and microcalcifications. However, a considerable overlap was noted in the sonographic features of malignant and benign thyroid nodules. On ARFI quantification, the mean shear wave speed (SWS) values ( M ± SD) of malignant and benign thyroid nodules were 3.131 ± 0.921 m/s and 1.691 ± 0.513 m/s, respectively. A significant difference was observed between the mean SWS values of malignant thyroid nodules and benign thyroid nodules ( p < 0.0001). Applying a cutoff value of 2.53 m/s, the sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the differentiation were 85.71%, 96.15%, and 0.922, respectively. ARFI quantification is a promising elastography technique that provides quantitative information about tissue stiffness. It provides additional information and complements sonography as an effective diagnostic tool in characterizing and differentiating benign from malignant thyroid nodules.
University entrance language tests: A matter of justice
Authors: Deygers Bart , Van den Branden Kris , Van Gorp Koen
Published: May 2017

University entrance language tests are often administered under the assumption that even if language proficiency does not determine academic success, a certain proficiency level is still required. Nevertheless, little research has focused on how well L2 students cope with the linguistic demands of their studies in the first months after passing an entrance test. Even fewer studies have taken a longitudinal perspective.

Set in Flanders, Belgium, this study examines the opinions and experiences of 24 university staff members and 31 international L2 students, of whom 20 were tracked longitudinally. Attention is also given to test/retest results, academic score sheets, and class recordings. To investigate the validity of inferences made on the basis of L2 students’ scores, Kane’s (2013) Interpretation/Use Argument approach is adopted, and principles from political philosophy are applied to investigate whether a policy that discriminates among students based on language test results can be considered just. It is concluded that the receptive language requirements of university studies exceed the expected B2 level and that the Flemish entrance tests include language tasks that are of little importance for first-year students. Furthermore, some of the students who failed the entrance test actually managed quite well in their studies – a result that entails broad implications concerning validation and justice even outside the study’s localized setting.
Private military and security companies, contract structure, market competition, and violence in Iraq
Authors: Tkach Benjamin
Published: May 2017

Conflict environments exacerbate an incentive dilemma between employers and private military and security companies (PMSCs). PMSCs seek to maximize profits, but employers seek to minimize expenses and maximize services. We argue that PMSCs are influenced by two complementary economic factors: contract structure and intra-sector competition. Contract structures are set by employers and establish compensation constraints and intra-sector competition identifies potential replacements. Both impact service delivery. We find that PMSCs with contract structures that lack performance incentives, even in the presence of competition, increase the likelihood of violence in Iraq. PMSCs that lacked intra-sector competition had a similar but smaller effect.
Cesare Lombroso on mediumship and pathology
Authors: Alvarado Carlos S , Biondi Massimo
Published: May 2017

During the nineteenth century and the first decade of the twentieth, students of pathology such as Cesare Lombroso (1835–1909), the author of the excerpt presented here, became involved in observing, investigating and theorizing about the phenomena of Spiritualism, and mediumship in particular. The Classic Text presented here consists of an excerpt from Lombroso’s writings which focus on the Italian medium Eusapia Palladino (1854–1918), who greatly influenced Lombroso’s beliefs. Lombroso illustrates neglected theoretical ideas combining the interaction of pathology and what seem to be real psychic phenomena that have not received much attention in historical studies.
Indigenous Communication Forms and Their Potential to Convey Food Security Messages in Rural Ethiopia
Authors: Nigussie Hagos
Published: May 2017

This article examines the use of indigenous communication forms to convey food security messages in chronically food-insecure areas of Irob and Gulomekeda districts in eastern Tigray, rural Ethiopia. The study findings showed that there are no explicitly designed rural food security communication strategies, but food security messages are communicated through frequent public meetings. However, respondents believed that public meetings are dominated by the views and interests of government officials and development agents, which rarely entertain peoples’ needs. The findings also showed that indigenous communication forms are widely practised in eastern Tigray, which rural people distinguish as potential conduits to convey different messages. Development agents and food security experts also believed that these communication forms have the potential to mobilize communities and enable them to actively engage in food security programmes. Thus, the overall result of the study shows that despite the knowledge about the potential of indigenous communication forms to convey food security messages, development agents are not using them in food security programmes, which has resulted in low-level community participation in the food security programmes.
Whole transcriptome analysis reveals dysregulated oncogenic lncRNAs in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma and establishes MIR155HG as a target of PRDM1
Authors: Baytak Esra , Gong Qiang , Akman Burcu , Yuan Hongling , Chan Wing C , Küçük Can
Published: May 2017

Natural killer/T-cell lymphoma is a rare but aggressive neoplasm with poor prognosis. Despite previous reports that showed potential tumor suppressors, such as PRDM1 or oncogenes associated with the etiology of this malignancy, the role of long non-coding RNAs in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma pathobiology has not been addressed to date. Here, we aim to identify cancer-associated dysregulated long non-coding RNAs and signaling pathways or biological processes associated with these long non-coding RNAs in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma cases and to identify the long non-coding RNAs transcriptionally regulated by PRDM1. RNA-Seq analysis revealed 166 and 66 long non-coding RNAs to be significantly overexpressed or underexpressed, respectively, in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma cases compared with resting or activated normal natural killer cells. Novel long non-coding RNAs as well as the cancer-associated ones such as SNHG5, ZFAS1, or MIR155HG were dysregulated. Interestingly, antisense transcripts of many growth-regulating genes appeared to be transcriptionally deregulated. Expression of ZFAS1, which is upregulated in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma cases, showed association with growth-regulating pathways such as stabilization of P53, regulation of apoptosis, cell cycle, or nuclear factor-kappa B signaling in normal and neoplastic natural killer cell samples. Consistent with the tumor suppressive role of PRDM1, we identified MIR155HG and TERC to be transcriptionally downregulated by PRDM1 in two PRDM1-null NK-cell lines when it is ectopically expressed. In conclusion, this is the first study that identified long non-coding RNAs whose expression is dysregulated in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma cases. These findings suggest that ZFAS1 and other dysregulated long non-coding RNAs may be involved in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma pathobiology through regulation of cancer-related genes, and loss-of-PRDM1 expression in natural killer/T-cell lymphomas may contribute to overexpression of MIR155HG; thereby promoting tumorigenesis.
MicroRNA-34 dysregulation in gastric cancer and gastric cancer stem cell
Authors: Jafari Narjes , Abediankenari Saeid
Published: May 2017

Gastric cancer is a major cause of cancer mortality worldwide, with a low survival rate for patients with advanced forms of the disease. Over the recent decades, the investigation of the pathophysiological mechanisms of tumourigenesis has opened promising avenues to understand some of the complexities of cancer treatment. However, tumour regeneration and metastasis impose great difficulty for gastric cancer cure. In recent years, cancer stem cells – a small subset of tumour cells in many cancers – have become a major focus of cancer research. Cancer stem cells are capable of self-renewal and are known to be responsible for tumour initiation, metastasis, therapy resistance and cancer recurrence. Recent studies have revealed the key role of microRNAs – small noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression – in these processes. MicroRNAs play crucial roles in the regulation of a wide range of biological processes in a post-transcriptional manner, though their expression is dysregulated in most malignancies, including gastric cancer. In this article, we review the consequences of aberrant expression of microRNA-34 in cancer and cancer stem cells, with a specific focus on the miR-34 dysregulation in gastric cancer and gastric cancer stem cells. We address the critical effects of the aberrant expression of miR-34 and its target genes in maintaining cancer stem cell properties. Information collection and discussion about the advancements in gastric cancer stem cells and microRNAs can be useful for providing novel insights into patient treatment.
Circulating miR-1826 in plasma correlates with circulating tumor cells and is a prognostic marker in colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Zhihua , Xi Tianyi , Han Ye , Guo Xiaobo , Liu Fei , Jiang Min , Wan Daiwei , Xue Xiaofeng , He Songbing , Ren Rui , Li Wei , Zhi Qiaoming
Published: May 2017

Our previous study showed that miR-1826 was a newly identified oncogenic non-coding RNA in colorectal cancer. But the potential relationship between miR-1826 and tumor metastasis has not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of circulating miR-1826 and its possible associations with circulating tumor cells in colorectal cancer. Our results first found that serum miR-1826 was significantly upregulated in colorectal cancer patients, compared with that in healthy volunteers ( p = 0.003). Similar results were also found in colorectal cancer with distant metastasis ( p = 0.001) and advanced colorectal cancer ( p < 0.001) patients, respectively. Clinicopathological analysis implied that circulating miR-1826 was positively associated with pT stage ( p = 0.026), lymphatic metastasis ( p = 0.034), distant metastasis ( p = 0.012), and tumor–node–metastasis stage ( p = 0.020). Besides, our univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that high serum miR-1826 expression could act as a prognostic and independent factor for overall survival of colorectal cancer patients ( p < 0.05), which led to a poorer 5-year overall survival rate ( p = 0.025). The area under the curve value of circulating miR-1826 was up to 0.848 ± 0.043, which strongly suggested serum miR-1826 as an effective diagnostic biomarker in colorectal cancer patients ( p < 0.001). Our subsequent experiments demonstrated that patients with high level of circulating tumor cells showed a higher level of miR-1826 expression, compared with the circulating tumor cell–negative patients ( p = 0.011). Similar results also showed that the amount of circulating tumor cells in high miR-1826 group was significantly higher than that in low miR-1826 group ( p = 0.001). Furthermore, the relationship between serum miR-1826 and circulating tumor cells was analyzed using SPSS software and a significant logarithmic relationship was found, which meant that circulating miR-1826 closely correlated with the amount of circulating tumor cells in colorectal cancer patient serum ( r = 0.283, p < 0.01). Our findings strongly suggested that serum miR-1826 could serve as an effective and non-invasive biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer. Circulating miR-1826 may be an important target in colorectal cancer therapy.
Factors associated with efficacy of first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Cui Shaohua , Jiang Liyan
Published: May 2017

The finding of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which reflects a classical process of translational research, is a critical milestone for non-small-cell lung cancer treatment. Currently, epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors are recommended as first-line therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer patients harboring epidermal growth factor receptor–sensitive mutations. The status of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation is widely acknowledged as superior to other clinical factors, such as smoking, gender, and histological types for predicting the response to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. However, recent studies have shown that the efficacy might differ in patients with the same epidermal growth factor receptor–sensitive mutations, highlighting the need to investigate the putative factors related to the efficacy of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This article reviews the factors associated with clinical efficacy of first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as gefitinib and erlotinib, and analyzes their potential implications with respect to clinical application. In addition, new findings related to clinical practice with respect to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors efficacy were summarized in this article.
Suppression subtractive hybridization identified differentially expressed genes in colorectal cancer: microRNA-451a as a novel colorectal cancer–related gene
Authors: Xu Ke , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Han Bin , Bai Yang , Xiong Yao , Song Yi , Zhou Li-Ming
Published: May 2017

To investigate differentially expressed genes regulated by microRNA-451a in colorectal cancer. We detected expression of microRNA-451a in colorectal cancer samples and normal pericarcinous tissues from 68 colorectal cancer patients and the correlation between microRNA-451a and clinical features of these patients. Then, the expression of microRNA-451a in HCT116, SW620, HT29, SW480, and DLD cells was also measured. The suppression subtractive hybridization method was used with two HCT116 cell lines with overexpressing or underexpressing microRNA-451a, respectively. The most highly increased genes were screened. Their functions were predicted by gene ontology analysis. The expression ratio of microRNA-451a in colorectal cancer to pericarcinous tissues was 0.37. Expression of microRNA-451a was decreased in HCT116, SW620, HT29, SW480, and DLD cells. In our suppression subtractive hybridization library, expression of seven genes was the most highly increased when underexpressing microRNA-451a. They were BCAP31, EEF1A1, CDC20, WDR6, TUFM, RPL13, and RPL7A. Expression of DKK1, PSME1, NDUFA3, and GNB2 was most highly increased when overexpressing microRNA-451a. Gene ontology analysis showed that the main functions of these genes were associated with translational elongation, protein localization to the endoplasmic reticulum, translation, poly(A) RNA binding, negative regulations of Wnt signaling pathway, and so on. MicroRNA-451a was demonstrated to be downregulated in colorectal cancer patient tissues whose target genes were analyzed and functions were predicted by suppression subtractive hybridization.
The Campbell Collaboration
Authors: Littell Julia H. , White Howard
Published: May 2017

In this article, we trace the development of the Campbell Collaboration and its renewed efforts to build a world library of accurate, synthesized evidence to inform policy and practice and improve human well-being worldwide. Campbell systematic reviews and related evidence synthesis products provide unbiased summaries of entire bodies of empirical evidence, making them uniquely useful sources of information for policy and practice. With recent changes in organizational structure and new leadership, the Campbell Collaboration is poised to dramatically increase the production, dissemination, and use of rigorous syntheses of research on social, economic, and behavioral interventions. Campbell provides opportunities for social work scholars, practitioners, and consumers to contribute to knowledge about the processes and outcomes of social, behavioral, and economic interventions.
A Reexamination of Child Problem Behaviors as Measured by ECBI: Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance Across Two Parent Training Interventions
Authors: Hukkelberg Silje S.
Published: May 2017

The Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI) is a widely used instrument that assesses disruptive problem behaviors via parent report. The present study compares three different conceptualizations of problem behaviors using traditional confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), a bifactor–CFA, and a bifactor exploratory structural equation model, whereof the latter two represent novel conceptualizations of disruptive problem behaviors. Data were derived from 353 Norwegian parents assigned to parent management training—the Oregon model (PMTO; N = 137) or brief parent training (BPT; N = 216), who rated their child’s problem behavior (age 3-12 years). The factor models were estimated within the PMTO and BPT samples, and in the total sample. Results showed that the bifactor–CFA, with a general problem behavior factor and three specific factors representing oppositional defiant, conduct problem, and inattentive behavior provided the best model fit. Furthermore, factorial invariance across control/intervention groups and across time (pre/post intervention) was estimated within the PMTO and BPT samples. Results revealed properties of metric and intercept invariance across intervention/control groups and over time, within both interventions. Implications of the results are discussed.
Lessons Learned From the Affordable Care Act: The Premium Subsidy Design May Promote Adverse Selection
Authors: Graetz Ilana , McKillop Caitlin N. , Kaplan Cameron M. , Waters Teresa M.
Published: May 2017

Since 2014, average premiums for health plans available in the Affordable Care Act marketplaces have increased. We examine how premium price changes affected the amount consumers pay after subsidies for the lowest-cost bronze and silver plans available by age in the federally facilitated exchanges. Between 2015 and 2016, benchmark plan premiums increased in 83.3% of counties. Overall, rising benchmark premiums were associated with lower average after-subsidy premiums for the lowest-cost bronze and silver plans for older subsidy-eligible adults, but with higher after-subsidy premiums for younger adults purchasing the same plans, regardless of income. With recent discussions to replace or overhaul the Affordable Care Act, it is critical that we learn from the successes and failures of the current policy. Our findings suggest that the subsidy design, which makes rising premiums costlier for younger adults looking to purchase an entry-level plan, may be contributing to adverse selection and instability in the marketplace.
Long-term private renters: Perceptions of security and insecurity
Authors: Morris Alan , Hulse Kath , Pawson Hal
Published: May 2017

Many developed economies, especially in ‘liberal welfare regimes’, have experienced a substantial growth in private rental housing. Bound up with this dynamic is the rising incidence of long-term private renting (private renting for ten years or more). Regulation of the private rental sector in liberal welfare regimes is light and post the written agreement residents are subject to constant de jure insecurity. Drawing on a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews (the primary focus), this article investigates the impacts of perpetual de jure housing insecurity on long-term private renters in diverse housing markets (low-, medium- and high-rent) in Sydney and Melbourne. The results indicate that de jure insecurity does not necessarily translate into de facto insecurity. Long-term private renters typically respond to perpetual de jure insecurity in one of three ways – incessant anxiety and fear; lack of concern; and concern offset by economic/social capital and traded off against locational preference.
Application of entropy in identification of breathing cracks in a beam structure: Simulations and experimental studies
Authors: Wimarshana Buddhi , Wu Nan , Wu Christine
Published: May 2017

A cantilever beam with a breathing crack is studied to detect the crack and evaluate the crack depth using entropy measures. During the vibration in engineering structures, fatigue cracks undergo the status from close-to-open (and open-to-close) repetitively leading to a crack breathing phenomenon. Entropy is a measure, which can quantify the complexity or irregularity in system dynamics, and hence employed to quantify the bi-linearity/irregularity of the vibration response, which is induced by the breathing phenomenon of a crack. A mathematical model of harmonically excited unit length steel cantilever beam with a breathing crack located near the fixed end is established, and an iterative numerical method is applied to generate accurate time domain vibration responses. The steady-state time domain vibration signals are pre-processed with wavelet transformation, and the bi-linearity/irregularity of the vibration signals due to breathing effect is then successfully quantified using both sample entropy and quantized approximation of sample entropy to detect and estimate the crack depth. It is observed that the method is capable of identifying crack depths even at very early stages of 3% of the beam thickness with significant increment in the entropy values (more than 200%) compared to the healthy beam. In addition, experimental studies are conducted, and the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results. The proposed technique can also be applied to damage identification in other types of structures, such as plates and shells.
Prevalence of Dementia, Depression, and Mild Cognitive Impairment in a Rural Area of the Island of Crete, Greece
Authors: Tsolaki Magda , Gkioka Mara , Verykouki Eleni , Galoutzi Niki , Kavalou Eirini , Pattakou-Parasyri Vassiliki
Published: May 2017

The studies on the prevalence of dementia, depression, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Greece are sparse and show major variations of prevalence depending on geographical areas, nutritional habits, and the way of living. The aim of this door-to-door study was to find the prevalence of dementia, depression, and MCI in a rural Greek population. Four hundred and forty-three individuals older than 61years following the application of specific criteria were diagnosed with: normal cognition, depression, MCI with and without depression, and dementia with and without depression. Four diagnostic methods were used, 2 of which included Mungas correction for age and education. After Mungas adjustment, the results were as follows—depression: 33.9%; MCI: 15.3%; MCI with depression: 8.6%; dementia: 2.0%; and dementia with depression: 7.2%. Dementia is less prevalent compared to global data and other Greek areas. Mild cognitive impairment is more prevalent than dementia. High percentages of depression may be related to low education.
Accelerated Age-Dependent Hippocampal Volume Loss in Parkinson Disease With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Schneider Christine B. , Donix Markus , Linse Katharina , Werner Annett , Fauser Mareike , Klingelhoefer Lisa , Löhle Matthias , von Kummer Rüdiger , Reichmann Heinz ,   LANDSCAPE consortium, Storch Alexander
Published: May 2017

Background:

Patients with Parkinson disease are at high risk of developing dementia. During the course of the disease, a substantial number of patients will experience a cognitive decline, indicating the dynamics of the underlying neuropathology. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become increasingly useful for identifying structural characteristics in radiological brain anatomy existing prior to clinical symptoms. Whether these changes reflect pathology, whether they are aging related, or both often remains unclear. We hypothesized that aging-associated brain structural changes would be more pronounced in the hippocampal region among patients with Parkinson disease having mild cognitive deficits relative to cognitively unimpaired patients.

Methods:

Using MRI, we investigated 30 cognitively healthy patients with Parkinson disease and 33 patients with nondemented Parkinson disease having mild cognitive impairment. All participants underwent structural MRI scanning and extensive clinical and neuropsychological assessments.

Results:

Irrespective of the study participants’ cognitive status, older age was associated with reduced cortical thickness in various neocortical regions. Having mild cognitive impairment was not associated with an increased rate of cortical thinning or volume loss in these regions, except in the hippocampus bilaterally.

Conclusion:

Patients with Parkinson disease having mild cognitive impairment show an accelerated age-dependent hippocampal volume loss when compared with cognitively healthy patients with Parkinson disease. This may indicate pathological processes in a key region for memory functioning in patients with Parkinson disease at risk of developing dementia. Structural MRI of the hippocampal region could potentially contribute to identifying patients who should receive early treatment aimed at delaying the clinical onset of dementia.
Humor as a Relationship Lubricant: The Implications of Leader Humor on Transformational Leadership Perceptions and Team Performance
Authors: Mao Jih-Yu , Chiang Jack Ting-Ju , Zhang Ye , Gao Ming
Published: May 2017

In this article, drawing on leader categorization theory, we examined the influencing processes of team leaders’ humor on their teams’ performance. Using a time-lagged study, including 244 leaders and 815 followers in a manufacturing firm in Northern China, we found that leaders’ humor is positively related to subordinates’ perceptions of transformational leadership, which in turn, has a positive effect on the team’s performance. In addition, we found that the relationship conflict between a team leader and his or her team members moderates the positive, indirect effect of leader humor on team performance through subordinates’ transformational leadership perceptions. When the relationship conflict between the leader and his or her team members is high, leader’s humor becomes more relevant to subordinates’ perceptions of leader’s transformational leadership, and therefore exerts a stronger positive influence on team performance. The model developed in this study furthered the current understandings on leader humor and its usefulness in practical settings.
Professor Sergei Semjonovic Golovin (1866-1931): A Pioneer of Ocular Surgery
Authors: Moschos Marilita M.
Published: May 2017

Professor Sergei Semjonovic Golovin (1866-1931) is considered as one of the founders of ophthalmology in Russia. He received a worldwide reputation thanks to his achievements in ocular surgery and pathology. He introduced new surgical techniques such as Golovin’s operation (Exenteratio orbitosinualis), Golovin’s osteoplastic frontal sinus operation, ligation of orbital veins, and opticociliary neurectomy. He also introduced his “cytotoxic theory” to interpret sympathetic ophthalmia. He was a reputable professor of ophthalmology.
Close, Dependent, and Out of Touch with the People? Investigating and Explaining Local Political Communication Cultures in a Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Baugut Philip , Fawzi Nayla , Reinemann Carsten
Published: May 2017

The relationship of political actors and journalists is a central topic in political communication research. However, it remains challenging to explain the different patterns of interaction observed in different contexts. To address that challenge, this study draws theoretically on the concept of “political communication cultures” and transfers the logic of internationally comparative research to the local level to analyze patterns and causes of politics–media interactions in a large number of diverse contexts. To this end, micro-level empirical data from a representative survey of more than 600 local political actors and journalists in fifty-two German cities were integrated with macro-level data describing the social, political, and media contexts of those cities. This allows us, first, to describe patterns of politics–media relations at the notoriously under-researched local level in terms of proximity, dependency, and seclusiveness of the politics–media milieu. Second, we are able to investigate various potential micro- and macro-level causes of those patterns. We show that different dimensions of relationships are variously affected by different factors; among these, media and political competition seem to be significant predictors of politics–media relations.
Pulse dose steroids in severe pulmonary arterial hypertension secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lee Cody , Elwing Jean
Published: May 2017

Objective:

The pulmonary vascular targeted treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension is similar to other connective tissue disease–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension. In addition, there also appears to be a role for immunosuppression in the overall management. However, the optimal immunosuppressive regimen and what patients will respond to treatments are currently not clearly elucidated given the lack of randomized controlled trials on the subject. Our objective is to highlight the importance of early immunosuppression in systemic lupus erythematosus–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension and the role of pulse dose steroids in management.

Methods:

This case describes a 23-year-old woman who presented with pulmonary arterial hypertension diagnosed by right heart catheterization with mean pulmonary artery pressure of 74 mmHg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure of 12 mmHg, and a pulmonary vascular resistance of 1908 dyne s cm−5. Due to the aggressive nature of her disease, she declined despite management with epoprostenol and sildenafil. Because of coexisting systemic lupus erythematosus with hemolytic anemia and worsening pulmonary arterial hypertension, intensive immunosuppressive therapy with pulse dose steroids was initiated.

Results:

Shortly after initiation of pulse dose steroids and maintenance immunosuppression, she had a dramatic symptomatic and hemodynamic response with a decrease in her pulmonary vascular resistance from 1908 to 136 dyne sec cm−5 and improvement in her mean pulmonary artery pressure from 74 to 27 mmHg on repeat right heart catheterization.

Conclusion:

Early immunosuppression is important to consider in those with systemic lupus erythematosus–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension. Limited studies are available, but most have focused on the use of cyclophosphamide. Pulse dose steroids may be a potentially less toxic but equally effective manner to aid in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus–pulmonary arterial hypertension when intensive immunosuppression is being considered.
WHO and UNDP change in leadership: What views on drug policy and harm reduction?
Authors: Tinasti Khalid , Fordham Ann , Bewley-Taylor David R
Published: May 2017

The UN General Assembly Special Session on drugs held in April 2016 has been organized by the international drug control entities, but has confirmed the inclusion of other UN agencies in the global debates on drugs. Out of these, WHO and UNDP have played a major role in linking drug policy with the priorities of protecting human rights and promoting sustainable development. In May 2017, the leadership of both agencies will change. This letter reviews the aspiring leaders of these agencies’ positions on drug policies through existing literature, providing more clarity on their past or current commitment to the issue of drug policy and harm reduction stakeholders.
Selective inhibition of nuclear export with selinexor in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Kuruvilla John , Savona Michael , Baz Rachid , Mau-Sorensen Paul Morten , Gabrail Nashat , Garzon Ramiro , Stone Richard , Wang Michael , Savoie Lynn , Martin Peter , Flinn Ian , Jacoby Meagan , Unger Thaddeus J. , Saint-Martin Jean-Richard , Rashal Tami , Friedlander Sharon , Carlson Robert , Kauffman Michael , Shacham Sharon , Gutierrez Martin
Published: May 2017

Patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. We evaluated selinexor, an orally bioavailable, first-in-class inhibitor of the nuclear export protein XPO1, in this phase 1 trial to assess safety and determine a recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). Seventy-nine patients with various NHL histologies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, Richter’s transformation, mantle cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, were enrolled. In the dose-escalation phase, patients received 3 to 80 mg/m2 of selinexor in 3- or 4-week cycles and were assessed for toxicities, pharmacokinetics, and antitumor activity. In the dose-expansion phase, patients were treated with selinexor at 35 or 60 mg/m2. The most common grade 3 to 4 drug-related adverse events were thrombocytopenia (47%), neutropenia (32%), anemia (27%), leukopenia (16%), fatigue (11%), and hyponatremia (10%). Tumor biopsies showed decreases in cell-signaling pathways (Bcl-2, Bcl-6, c-Myc), reduced proliferation (Ki67), nuclear localization of XPO1 cargos (p53, PTEN), and increased apoptosis after treatment. Twenty-two (31%) of the 70 evaluable patients had an objective responses, including 4 complete responses and 18 partial responses, which were observed across a spectrum of NHL subtypes. A dose of 35 mg/m2 (60 mg) was identified as the RP2D. These findings suggest that inhibition of XPO1 with oral selinexor at 35 mg/m2 is a safe therapy with encouraging and durable anticancer activity in patients with R/R NHL. The trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01607892.
Safety and efficacy of the choline analogue SAR97276 for malaria treatment: results of two phase 2, open-label, multicenter trials in African patients
Authors: Held Jana , Supan Christian , Salazar Carmen L. Ospina , Tinto Halidou , Bonkian Léa Nadège , Nahum Alain , Sié Ali , Abdulla Salim , Cantalloube Cathy , Djeriou Elhadj , Bouyou-Akotet Marielle , Ogutu Bernhards , Mordmüller Benjamin , Kreidenweiss Andrea , Siribie Mohamadou , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Kremsner Peter G.
Published: May 2017

Background

Malaria remains one of the most important infectious diseases. Treatment options for severe malaria are limited and the choline analogue SAR97276A is a novel chemical entity that was developed primarily as treatment for severe malaria. Before starting clinical investigations in severely ill malaria patients, safety and efficacy of SAR97276A was studied in patients with uncomplicated malaria. Here, we summarize two open-label, multi-center phase 2 trials assessing safety and efficacy of parenterally administered SAR97276A in African adults and children with falciparum malaria.

Results

Study 1 was conducted in Burkina Faso, Gabon, Benin and Tanzania between August 2008 and July 2009 in malaria patients in an age de-escalating design (adults, children). A total of 113 malaria patients received SAR97276A. Adults were randomized to receive a single dose SAR97296A given either intramuscularly (IM) (0.18 mg/kg) or intravenously (IV) (0.14 mg/kg). If a single dose was not efficacious a second adult group was planned to test a three dose regimen administered IM once daily for 3 days. Single dose SAR97276A showed insufficient efficacy in adults (IM: 20 of 34 cured, 59%; and IV: 23/30 cured, 77%). The 3-day IM regimen showed acceptable efficacy in adults (27/30, 90%) but not in children (13/19, 68%). SAR97276A was well tolerated but no further groups were recruited due lack of efficacy. Study 2 was conducted between October 2011 and January 2012 in Burkina Faso, Gabon and Kenya. SAR97276A administered at a higher dose given IM was compared to artemether–lumefantrine. The study population was restricted to underage malaria patients to be subsequently enrolled in two age cohorts (teenagers, children). Rescue therapy was required in all teenaged malaria patients (8/8) receiving SAR97276A once daily (0.5 mg/kg) for 3 days and in 5 out of 8 teenaged patients treated twice daily (0.25 mg/kg) for 3 days. All patients (4/4) in the control group were cured. The study was stopped, before enrollment of children, due to lack of efficacy but the overall safety profile was good.

Conclusions

Monotherapy with SAR97276A up to twice daily for 3 days is not an efficacious treatment for falciparum malaria. SAR97276A will not be further developed for the treatment of malaria.

Trial registration at clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00739206, retrospectively registered August 20, 2008 for Study 1 and NCT01445938 registered September 26, 2011 for Study 2.