bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of the alternative NF-κB activation pathway in inflammation-associated gastrointestinal carcinogenesis
Authors: Merga Yvette J. , O'Hara Adrian , Burkitt Michael D. , Duckworth Carrie A. , Probert Christopher S. , Campbell Barry J. , Pritchard D. Mark
Published: April 2016

Chronic inflammation is a common factor in the development of many gastrointestinal malignancies. Examples include inflammatory bowel disease predisposing to colorectal cancer, Barrett's esophagus as a precursor of esophageal adenocarcinoma, and Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric cancer. The classical activation pathway of NF-κB signaling has been identified as regulating several sporadic and inflammation-associated gastrointestinal tract malignancies. Emerging evidence suggests that the alternative NF-κB signaling pathway also exerts a distinct influence on these processes. This review brings together current knowledge of the role of the alternative NF-κB signaling pathway in the gastrointestinal tract, with a particular emphasis on inflammation-associated cancer development.
Circulating nucleosomes are associated with mortality in pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Yehya Nadir , Thomas Neal J. , Margulies Susan S.
Published: April 2016

Mechanisms underlying pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) are poorly understood. The recent implication of circulating nucleosomes as pathogenic in sepsis and trauma-associated ARDS in adults led us to investigate the significance of nucleosomes in PARDS. We conducted a prospective, observational study on children with PARDS at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia between July 2014 and September 2015. Plasma was collected within 48 h of PARDS onset and nucleosomes quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Samples from 76 children with PARDS (11 deaths, 14%) were collected early [median 15 (IQR 7, 21) h] after PARDS onset. Nucleosome levels were higher in nonsurvivors [0.59 AU (IQR 0.46, 0.84)] relative to survivors [0.21 AU (IQR 0.08, 0.33), rank sum P < 0.001]. Nucleosome levels were not associated with either Berlin ( P = 0.845) or PALICC ( P = 0.886) oxygenation categories, nor with etiology of PARDS ( P = 0.527). Nucleosomes were correlated with increasing numbers of nonpulmonary organ failures ( P = 0.009 for trend), and were higher in patients whose PaO2/FiO2 worsened ( P = 0.012) over the first 72 h of PARDS. In regression analysis, nucleosome levels were independently associated with mortality after adjusting for either age, severity of illness score, number of nonpulmonary organ failures, vasopressor score, or PaO2/FiO2 (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, plasma nucleosome levels in early PARDS were associated with increased mortality, correlated with number of nonpulmonary organ failures, and preceded worsening oxygenation. The potential utility of this biomarker for prognostication, risk stratification, and mechanistic insight should be investigated further.
The vitronectin RGD motif regulates TGF-β-induced alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis
Authors: Wheaton Amanda K. , Velikoff Miranda , Agarwal Manisha , Loo Tiffany T. , Horowitz Jeffrey C. , Sisson Thomas H. , Kim Kevin K.
Published: April 2016

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a critical driver of acute lung injury and fibrosis. Injury leads to activation of TGF-β, which regulates changes in the cellular and matrix makeup of the lung during the repair and fibrosis phase. TGF-β can also initiate alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) apoptosis. Injury leads to destruction of the laminin-rich basement membrane, which is replaced by a provisional matrix composed of arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD) motif-containing plasma matrix proteins, including vitronectin and fibronectin. To determine the role of specific matrix proteins on TGF-β-induced apoptosis, we studied primary AECs cultured on different matrix conditions and utilized mice with deletion of vitronectin (Vtn−/−) or mice in which the vitronectin RGD motif is mutated to nonintegrin-binding arginine-glycine-glutamate (RGE) (VtnRGE/RGE). We found that AECs cultured on fibronectin and vitronectin or in wild-type mouse serum are resistant to TGF-β-induced apoptosis. In contrast, AECs cultured on laminin or in serum from Vtn−/−or VtnRGE/RGEmice undergo robust TGF-β-induced apoptosis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) sensitizes AECs to greater apoptosis by disrupting AEC engagement to vitronectin. Inhibition of integrin-associated signaling proteins augments AEC apoptosis. Mice with transgenic deletion of PAI-1 have less apoptosis after bleomycin, but deletion of vitronectin or disruption of the vitronectin RGD motif reverses this protection, suggesting that the proapoptotic function of PAI-1 is mediated through vitronectin inhibition. Collectively, these data suggest that integrin-matrix signaling is an important regulator of TGF-β-mediated AEC apoptosis and that PAI-1 functions as a natural regulator of this interaction.
Comparing anesthesia with isoflurane and fentanyl/fluanisone/midazolam in a rat model of cardiac arrest
Authors: Secher Niels , Malte Christian Lind , Tønnesen Else , Østergaard Leif , Granfeldt Asger
Published: April 2016

Only one in ten patients survives cardiac arrest (CA), underscoring the need to improve CA management. Isoflurane has shown cardio- and neuroprotective effects in animal models of ischemia-reperfusion injury. Therefore, the beneficial effect of isoflurane should be tested in an experimental CA model. We hypothesize that isoflurane anesthesia improves short-term outcome following resuscitation from CA compared with a subcutaneous fentanyl/fluanisone/midazolam anesthesia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to anesthesia with isoflurane ( n = 11) or fentanyl/fluanisone/midazolam ( n = 11). After 10 min of asphyxial CA, animals were resuscitated by mechanical chest compressions, ventilations, and epinephrine and observed for 30 min. Hemodynamics, including coronary perfusion pressure, systemic O2consumption, and arterial blood gases, were recorded throughout the study. Plasma samples for endothelin-1 and cathecolamines were drawn before and after CA. Compared with fentanyl/fluanisone/midazolam anesthesia, isoflurane resulted in a shorter time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), less use of epinephrine, increased coronary perfusion pressure during cardiopulmonary resusitation, higher mean arterial pressure post-ROSC, increased plasma levels of endothelin-1, and decreased levels of epinephrine. The choice of anesthesia did not affect ROSC rate or systemic O2consumption. Isoflurane reduces time to ROSC, increases coronary perfusion pressure, and improves hemodynamic function, all of which are important parameters in CA models.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The preconditioning effect of volatile anesthetics in studies of ischemia-reperfusion injury has been demonstrated in several studies. This study shows the importance of anesthesia in experimental cardiac arrest studies as isoflurane raised coronary perfusion pressure during resuscitation, reduced time to return of spontaneous circulation, and increased arterial blood pressure in the post-cardiac arrest period. These effects on key outcome measures in cardiac arrest research are important in the interpretation of results from animal studies.
Tenotomy immobilization as a model to investigate skeletal muscle fibrosis (with emphasis on Secreted frizzled-related protein 2)
Authors: Akpulat Uğur , Onbaşılar İlyas , Kocaefe Y. Çetin
Published: April 2016

The pathological endpoint of congenital and senile myopathies is chronic muscle degeneration characterized by the atrophy of contractile elements, accompanied by fibrosis and fatty infiltration of the interstitium. Tenotomy is the release of preload that causes abrupt shortening of the muscle and models atrophy and fibrosis without prominent inflammatory response. Fibrosis in the skeletal muscle is known to be triggered by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, which is activated by inflammatory events. As these were lacking, tenotomy provided an opportunity to investigate transcriptional events on a background without inflammation. An unbiased look at the transcriptome of tenotomy-immobilized soleus muscle revealed that the majority of the transcriptional changes took place in the first 4 wk. Regarding atrophy, proteasomal and lysosomal pathways were actively involved in accompanying cathepsins and calpains in the breakdown of the macromolecular contractile machinery. The transcriptome provided clear-cut evidence for the upregulation of collagens and several extracellular matrix components that define fibrotic remodeling of the skeletal muscle architecture as well as activation of the fibro-adipogenic precursors. Concomitantly, Sfrp2, a Wnt antagonist as well as a procollagen processor, accompanied fibrosis in skeletal muscle with an expression that was stringently confined to the slow-twitch fibers. An interpreted mechanistic scenario construed the kinetic events initiated through the abnormal shortening of the muscle fibers as enough to trigger the resident latent TGF-β in the extracellular matrix, leading to the activation of fibroadipogenic precursors. As in the heart, Sfrp2 shows itself to be a therapeutic target for the prevention of irreversible fibrosis in degenerative skeletal muscle conditions.
Antibody-Targeted Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Nevala Wendy K. , Buhrow Sarah A. , Knauer Daniel J. , Reid Joel M. , Atanasova Elena A. , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: April 2016

Antibody-directed chemotherapy (ADC) offers an advantage over conventional chemotherapy because it provides antibody-directed targeting, with resultant improvement in therapeutic efficacy and reduced toxicity. Despite extensive research, with notable exceptions, broad clinical application of ADC remains elusive; major hurdles include the instability of antibody–chemotherapy linkers and reduced tumor toxicity of the chemotherapy when bound to the antibody. To address these challenges, we have developed a platform technology that utilizes the nab-paclitaxel formulation of paclitaxel, Abraxane, in which hydrophobic paclitaxel is suspended in 130-nm albumin nanoparticles and thus made water-soluble. We have developed a method to noncovalently coat the Abraxane nanoparticle with recombinant mAbs (anti-VEGF, bevacizumab) and guide Abraxane delivery into tumors in a preclinical model of human A375 melanoma. Here, we define the binding characteristics of bevacizumab and Abraxane, demonstrate that the chemotherapy agent retains its cytotoxic effect, while the antibody maintains the ability to bind its ligand when the two are present in a single nanoparticle (AB160), and show that the nanoparticle yields improved antitumor efficacy in a preclinical human melanoma xenograft model. Further data suggest that numerous therapeutic monoclonal IgG1 antibodies may be utilized in this platform, which has implications for many solid and hematologic malignancies. Cancer Res; 76(13); 3954–64. ©2016 AACR.
A Synthetic Cell-Penetrating Dominant-Negative ATF5 Peptide Exerts Anticancer Activity against a Broad Spectrum of Treatment-Resistant Cancers
Authors: Karpel-Massler Georg , Horst Basil A. , Shu Chang , Chau Lily , Tsujiuchi Takashi , Bruce Jeffrey N. , Canoll Peter , Greene Lloyd A. , Angelastro James M. , Siegelin Markus D.
Published: April 2016

Purpose: Despite significant progress in cancer research, many tumor entities still have an unfavorable prognosis. Activating transcription factor 5 (ATF5) is upregulated in various malignancies and promotes apoptotic resistance. We evaluated the efficacy and mechanisms of the first described synthetic cell-penetrating inhibitor of ATF5 function, CP-d/n-ATF5-S1.

Experimental Design: Preclinical drug testing was performed in various treatment-resistant cancer cells and in vivo xenograft models.

Results: CP-d/n-ATF5-S1 reduced the transcript levels of several known direct ATF5 targets. It depleted endogenous ATF5 and induced apoptosis across a broad panel of treatment-refractory cancer cell lines, sparing non-neoplastic cells. CP-d/n-ATF5-S1 promoted tumor cell apoptotic susceptibility in part by reducing expression of the deubiquitinase Usp9X and led to diminished levels of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family members Mcl-1 and Bcl-2. In line with this, CP-d/n-ATF5-S1 synergistically enhanced tumor cell apoptosis induced by the BH3-mimetic ABT263 and the death ligand TRAIL. In vivo, CP-d/n-ATF5-S1 attenuated tumor growth as a single compound in glioblastoma, melanoma, prostate cancer, and triple receptor–negative breast cancer xenograft models. Finally, the combination treatment of CP-d/n-ATF5-S1 and ABT263 significantly reduced tumor growth in vivo more efficiently than each reagent on its own.

Conclusions: Our data support the idea that CP-d/n-ATF5-S1, administered as a single reagent or in combination with other drugs, holds promise as an innovative, safe, and efficient antineoplastic agent against treatment-resistant cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 22(18); 4698–711. ©2016 AACR.
Evaluation of Urinary Indices for Albuminuria and Proteinuria in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hong Dennis Sung Chul , Oh Il Hwan , Park Joon-Sung , Lee Chang Hwa , Kang Chong Myung , Kim Gheun-Ho
Published: April 2016

Background/Aims: Either protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) or albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) can be adopted for estimation of proteinuria in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Estimated protein excretion rate (ePER) and estimated albumin excretion rate (eAER) may be superior to ACR and PCR. Reports show that urine albumin-to-protein ratio (APR) may be useful in detecting tubular proteinuria, but should be compared with urine protein electrophoresis (PEP). Methods: Both 24-h urine and spot urine were collected from 77 stable CKD patients for measurement of albumin, protein, and creatinine, and PEP. Based on MDRD and CKD-EPI equations, ePERMDRD, ePERCKD-EPI, eAERMDRD and eAERCKD-EPI were calculated to estimate daily proteinuria and albuminuria. Glomerular CKD was defined by clinical and/or pathological evidence. Results: ACR correlated significantly with PCR. However, microalbuminuria was present in patients without pathologic proteinuria. Twenty-four-hour urine albumin correlated better with eAERMDRD and eAERCKD-EPI than ACR, and 24-h urine protein correlated better with ePERMDRD and ePERCKD-EPI than PCR. APR significantly but not well correlated with the albumin fraction in urine PEP. The albumin fraction obtained from urine PEP was significantly higher in patients with glomerulopathy than those with non-glomerular CKD, whereas there were no differences in APR between groups. In contrast with APR, the albumin fraction in urine PEP was independently associated with glomerular CKD. Conclusions: Both PCR and ACR are useful in evaluation of proteinuria. In quantifying daily proteinuria and albuminuria, ePER and eAER are superior to PCR and ACR, respectively. Compared with APR, urine PEP is more useful in diagnosing glomerular proteinuria.
Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase as a Potential Key Factor for Human Prenatal Development
Authors: Cizkova Katerina , Rajdova Aneta , Ehrmann Jiri
Published: April 2016

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) converts highly active epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) generated by cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenases from arachidonic acid to less active dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids. Because of the role of EETs in processes potentially relevant to the development of organisms, EETs could be suggested as potential morphogens. Unfortunately, only little is known about sEH expression during human intrauterine development (IUD). We investigated the spatio-temporal expression pattern of sEH in human embryonic/foetal intestines, liver and kidney from the 6th to the 20th week of IUD by two-step immunohistochemistry. sEH was expressed during the whole tested period of prenatal development and its level of expression remained more or less the same during the estimated period of IUD. Distribution of CYP epoxygenases and sEH in the intestinal epithelium and the nephrogenic zone of the kidney suggests an influence of EETs on cell proliferation and differentiation and, consequently, on the development of intestines and kidney. Thus, alterations in the strict spatio-temporal pattern of expression of CYP epoxygenases and/or sEH during human prenatal development by xenobiotics could have a harmful impact for developing organisms.
Evidence Supporting a Paracrine Effect of IGF-1/VEGF on Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Commitment
Authors: Dicarlo Manuela , Bianchi Novella , Ferretti Concetta , Orciani Monia , Di Primio Roberto , Mattioli-Belmonte Monica
Published: April 2016

Healing of skeletal defects is strictly dependent on osteogenesis and efficient vascularization of engineered scaffolds. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are both involved in these processes. The in vitro administration of IGF-1 in association with VEGF is able to modulate the osteoblastic or endothelial commitment of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) of different origins (e.g. periosteum and skin). In the present study, in order to deepen a possible paracrine effect of IGF-1 and VEGF on periosteum-derived progenitor cells (PDPCs) and skin-derived MSCs (S-MSCs), a Transwell coculture approach was used. We explored the genes involved in endothelial and osteoblastic differentiation, those modulating mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase (PI3K)-AKT signaling pathways as well as genes implicated in stemness (i.e. Sox2, Oct4, and Nanog). Periosteal cells, which are typically committed toward osteoblastogenesis, are driven in the direction of endothelial gene expression when influenced by S-MSCs. The latter, once influenced by PDPCs, lose their endothelial commitment and increase the expression of osteoblast-associated genes. PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling pathways seem to be markedly involved in this behavior. Our results evidence that paracrine signals between MSCs may differently modulate their commitment in a bone microenvironment, opening stimulating viewpoints for skeletal tissue engineering strategies coupling angiogenesis and osteogenesis processes.
Processo de legitimação artística – reflexões acerca de instituições museológicas de arte contemporânea do Brasil (MAC-USP) e da Argentina (MALBA)
Authors: Oliveira Elisangela Cardoso Hernandes e
Published: April 2016

Este artigo visa propor uma análise comparativa entre o Museu de Arte Contemporânea da Universidade de São Paulo (MAC-USP), brasileiro, e o Museu de Arte Latino-americano de Buenos Aires (MALBA), argentino, ambos museus de arte contemporânea, com o objetivo de estudar o processo de legitimação de artistas e obras nas instituições museológicas, tomando por recorte histórico o período de 2006 a 2008.
O papel do Facebook na divulgação científica de notícias relacionadas ao meio ambiente
Authors: Silva Vinícius Primiani Rodrigues da , Silva André Chaves de Melo
Published: April 2016

Este artigo traz uma análise do papel da rede social Facebook nos processos de comunicação contemporâneos, em especial o jornalístico, por meio da reprodução ou veiculação de notícias nas páginas de seus usuários. Para tanto, o estudo se centrou na cobertura de meio ambiente, buscando compreender os processos de disseminação das notícias por ONGs, especialistas em meio ambiente e jornalistas e evidenciando suas vantagens, dilemas e limites.
Canudos: A “Essência” do Sertão Baiano
Authors: Pires Soares Cardel Lídia Maria
Published: April 2016

Busca-se, neste artigo, analisar o documentário Paixão e Guerra no Sertão de Canudos, de autoria do Cineasta Antônio Olavo, a partir da eficácia instrumental do cinema documentário como um veículo potencializador de discursos críticos sobre eventos e ideologias sociais. Tem-se como objetivo refletir, por meio de uma obra fílmica, o evento da saga conselheirista como um processo demarcador da cisão do urbano e do rural no pensamento social brasileiro.
“As proezas de João Grilo”: imaginários da cultura nordestina impressos em poesia de cordel
Authors: Carvalho Gislene
Published: April 2016

Os folhetos de cordel são manifestações culturais comuns no Nordeste brasileiro e se configuram, normalmente, como uma mescla de elementos imaginários e relatos sobre a realidade vivida pelos poetas. Desta forma, os folhetos são crônicas poéticas que registram o cotidiano através de diversas subjetividades, que são formadas na cultura. A fantasia e a imaginação são fundamentais para o processo criativo e ambas estão inseridas em um âmbito cultural. Assim, João Grilo, personagem do folheto de João Ferreira de Lima, é uma representação do Nordeste que utiliza o imaginário para relatar fatos da realidade. Analisamos aqui o folheto “As proezas de João Grilo”, buscando identificar os traços distintivos que nos permitem reconhecer a cultura do Nordeste, através dos conceitos de semiótica da cultura para Bystrina (1999) e Wulf (2000), que refletem sobre processos criativos, fantasia e imaginário.
Webjornalismo participativo e diversidade cultural: entre a afirmação da diferença e a construção da pluralidade
Authors: Barros José Márcio , Carvalho Raquel Salomão Utsch de
Published: April 2016

A produção colaborativa em redes digitais impacta as práticas do webjornalismo, potencializando, por meio do uso da Internet e mídias locativas, a criação de espaços comunicativos favoráveis à diversidade cultural? Essa é a pergunta que orienta as reflexões do texto. No contexto midiatizado, a associação em rede entre atores e lógicas comunicacionais distintas supera a prática que reduz o jornalismo atento à diversidade cultural à divulgação das diferenças culturais?
Um olhar sobre a participação da televisão e da telenovela no cotidiano de uma prisão e da pessoa presa
Authors: Gonçalves William Cézar
Published: April 2016

Neste trabalho apresentamos algumas inferências realizadas ao observamos a entrada da televisão e de seus programas no interior de uma prisão. Buscamos entender o papel da TV e da telenovela no cotidiano de uma instituição prisional, a relação dos presos com esta mídia e como a teleficção seriada é fruída.
Clinical Scales Do Not Reliably Identify Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients With Large-Artery Occlusion
Authors: Turc Guillaume , Maïer Benjamin , Naggara Olivier , Seners Pierre , Isabel Clothilde , Tisserand Marie , Raynouard Igor , Edjlali Myriam , Calvet David , Baron Jean-Claude , Mas Jean-Louis , Oppenheim Catherine
Published: April 2016

Background and Purpose—

It remains debated whether clinical scores can help identify acute ischemic stroke patients with large-artery occlusion and hence improve triage in the era of thrombectomy. We aimed to determine the accuracy of published clinical scores to predict large-artery occlusion.

Methods—

We assessed the performance of 13 clinical scores to predict large-artery occlusion in consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing clinical examination and magnetic resonance or computed tomographic angiography ≤6 hours of symptom onset. When no cutoff was published, we used the cutoff maximizing the sum of sensitivity and specificity in our cohort. We also determined, for each score, the cutoff associated with a false-negative rate ≤10%.

Results—

Of 1004 patients (median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score, 7; range, 0–40), 328 (32.7%) had an occlusion of the internal carotid artery, M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery, or basilar artery. The highest accuracy (79%; 95% confidence interval, 77–82) was observed for National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score ≥11 and Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation Scale score ≥5. However, these cutoffs were associated with false-negative rates >25%. Cutoffs associated with an false-negative rate ≤10% were 5, 1, and 0 for National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation Scale, and Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Severity Scale, respectively.

Conclusions—

Using published cutoffs for triage would result in a loss of opportunity for ≥20% of patients with large-artery occlusion who would be inappropriately sent to a center lacking neurointerventional facilities. Conversely, using cutoffs reducing the false-negative rate to 10% would result in sending almost every patient to a comprehensive stroke center. Our findings, therefore, suggest that intracranial arterial imaging should be performed in all patients with acute ischemic stroke presenting within 6 hours of symptom onset.
Apostolic Networks in Britain Revisited
Authors: Kay William K
Published: April 2016

This essay presents an account of the theological ideas that led to the formation of apostolic networks in Britain in the 1970s. It takes note of the function of theology as a driver of ecclesiastical innovation and offers the thesis that, while theology provides ideas and arguments, society is the receptacle into which these ideas are poured. Consequently, similar ideas are expressed in different social forms as society changes. The essay comments upon changes within apostolic networks in the last fifteen years, notes the appearance of metanetworks, and highlights the emergence of networks within denominational settings.
Altar Hermeneutics
Authors: Moore Rickie D.
Published: April 2016

This paper attempts to contribute to the current discussion on pentecostal biblical hermeneutics by offering some fresh reflections on the topic that are primarily focused upon one of the most frequently mentioned and distinguishing characteristics of pentecostal biblical interpretation, namely, the experience of encountering God through the biblical text.
Charismatic Christianity and the Role of Social Networks
Authors: Wilkinson Michael
Published: April 2016

This article offers a sociological examination of the role of networks among charismatic Christians, with specific attention to Catch the Fire and the Revival Alliance. Drawing upon social network theory, it shows how religious networks in global society are relational, asymmetrical, and infused with apostolic authority. A case study of Catch the Fire reveals that the network is primarily collaborative in its structure. However, there are some relationships in the network that are more important than others, as evidenced by the dense social ties among members. Furthermore, the network is structured according to gender with the benefits of social capital favoring men. The network also overlaps with other networks through key relationships, especially the New Apostolic Reformation and other charismatic ministries associated with the prosperity gospel.
On Pentecostals and Pentecostal Theology
Authors: Johnson, Jr. Bob L.
Published: April 2016

Few contemporary scholars have influenced biblical theology more than Walter Brueggemann. As an authority on the Hebrew Bible, he has earned the respect of theologians worldwide. His work speaks to a variety of audiences in the church and academy. Of special interest here are the relationships he has developed with pentecostal scholars in recent years. His rhetorical approach to Scripture, coupled with the prominence this method affords the biblical text, speaks to Pentecostals. His appreciation for the wonder, mystery, and generativity of the biblical narrative likewise reflects a common emphasis. The priority he gives to the theological interpretation of the text contrasts with the historical-critical approach that once dominated the field. Within this theological context, the purpose of this interview was threefold: 1) to hear Brueggemann’s account of his own spiritual journey as a disciple and scholar—that is, his testimony; 2) to explore the origins and nature of his relationship with Pentecostals; and 3) to understand his perceptions of pentecostal theology.
Member States and the International Legal (Dis)order
Authors: Barros Ana Sofia
Published: April 2016

This article looks into the role of member States as governors of international organizations and explores the legal constraints imposed thereof for the purposes of the establishment of international responsibility. At its foundation lies the quest for an international legal order that effectively protects the interests of those affected by institutional operations. To set the scene for the discussion, the article begins by noting that, in adhering to international organizations, (member) States retain sovereign powers which assume the crucial function of steering their oversight duties over institutional operations. Embracing a constitutionalist paradigm, the article moves on to show how the principles of representativeness and responsiveness inform member State conduct as creators and participants in institutional undertakings. The procedural implications of these principles in institutional contexts are subsequently explored by resorting to due diligence as a standard to evaluate member State behaviour and thereby implement member State responsibility.
Sasanidus, a new generic name for Noemacheilus kermanshahensis Bănărescu & Nalbant, with discussion of Ilamnemacheilus and Schistura (Teleostei; Nemacheilidae)
Authors: FREYHOF JÖRG , GEIGER MATTHIAS F. , GOLZARIANPOUR KIAVASH , PATIMAR RAHMAN
Published: April 2016

Sasanidus, new genus, is described for Noemacheilus kermanshahensis Bănărescu & Nalbant, endemic to the Karkheh and Karun drainages in Iran. Sasanidus kermanshahensis was initially identified as a species in Oxynoemacheilus, from which it is distinguished by the absence of an external sexual dimorphism (i.e. longer pectoral fin, and nuptial tubercles on fins, head and back in males). Sasanidus is distinguished from all other genera of Nemacheilidae in the Middle East by a combination of the following character states: pelvic-fin origin behind of a vertical of the dorsal-fin origin, anus about one eye diameter in front of the anal-fin origin, dorsal adipose keel absent, a high crest on the bony capsule of the swim bladder present and colour pattern marbled or mottled or with an irregularly shaped midlateral stripe. Ilamnemacheilus longipinnis was examined and no difference could be found between Ilamnemacheilus and Oxynoemacheilus. Therefore, Ilamnemacheilus is treated as a synonym of Oxynoemacheilus. COI barcode sequences from all nemacheilid loach genera occurring in the Middle East and western India are analysed jointly for the first time. The view that Schistura is a paraphyletic assemblage is supported by the clustering of DNA sequences from 45 specimens placed in at least 20 species in the genus Schistura analysed here.
Toward an Algorithm for Estimating Latent Heat Release in Warm Rain Systems
Authors: Nelson Ethan L. , L’Ecuyer Tristan S. , Saleeby Stephen M. , Berg Wesley , Herbener Stephen R. , van den Heever Susan C.
Published: April 2016

This paper outlines an approach for estimating latent heating, surface rainfall rate, and liquid water path in warm rain from downward-viewing W-band radar observations using a Bayesian Monte Carlo algorithm. The algorithm utilizes observed vertical and path-integrated characteristics of precipitating liquid clouds to identify the most appropriate hydrometeor and latent heating structures in a large database of profiles generated using a cloud-resolving model. These characteristics are selected by applying multiple performance metrics to synthetic retrievals. Analysis of the retrievals suggests that a combination of cloud-top, rain-top, and maximum reflectivity heights; vertically integrated reflectivity and attenuation; and a measure of near-surface intensity is sufficient to constrain bulk properties and the vertical structure of warm rain systems. When applied to observations at CloudSat resolution, biases in retrieved liquid water path and surface rainfall rate are small (less than 10%). The algorithm also captures the vertical structure of latent heating, although the magnitudes of integrated heating and cooling exhibit nearly compensating low biases. Random errors are larger owing to the limitations of single-frequency radar observations in constraining drop size distributions. Uncertainties in the altitudes of peak heating and cooling at the pixel scale are typically less than one vertical level, while uncertainties in vertically resolved estimates of heating and cooling rates are on the order of a factor of 2. The utility of the technique is illustrated through application to case studies from airborne radar data from the VAMOS Ocean–Cloud–Atmosphere–Land Study field campaign and satellite observations from CloudSat.
Why Is There No Labor Party in the United States? Political Articulation and the Canadian Comparison, 1932 to 1948
Authors: Eidlin Barry
Published: April 2016

Why is there no labor party in the United States? This question has had deep implications for U.S. politics and social policy. Existing explanations use “reflection” models of parties, whereby parties reflect preexisting cleavages or institutional arrangements. But a comparison with Canada, whose political terrain was supposedly more favorable to labor parties, challenges reflection models. Newly compiled electoral data show that underlying social structures and institutions did not affect labor party support as expected: support was similar in both countries prior to the 1930s, then diverged. To explain this, I propose a modified “articulation” model of parties, emphasizing parties’ role in assembling and naturalizing political coalitions within structural constraints. In both cases, ruling party responses to labor and agrarian unrest during the Great Depression determined which among a range of possible political alliances actually emerged. In the United States, FDR used the crisis to mobilize new constituencies. Rhetorical appeals to the “forgotten man” and policy reforms absorbed some farmer and labor groups into the New Deal coalition and divided and excluded others, undermining labor party support. In Canada, mainstream parties excluded farmer and labor constituencies, leaving room for the Cooperative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) to organize them into a third-party coalition.
Highly sensitive stool DNA testing of Fusobacterium nucleatum as a marker for detection of colorectal tumours in a Japanese population
Authors: Suehiro Yutaka , Sakai Kouhei , Nishioka Mitsuaki , Hashimoto Shinichi , Takami Taro , Higaki Shingo , Shindo Yoshitaro , Hazama Shoichi , Oka Masaaki , Nagano Hiroaki , Sakaida Isao , Yamasaki Takahiro
Published: April 2016

Background

Accumulating evidence shows an over-abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum in colorectal tumour tissues. Although stool DNA testing of Fusobacterium nucleatum might be a potential marker for the detection of colorectal tumours, the difficulty in detecting Fusobacterium nucleatum in stool by conventional methods prevented further explorations. Therefore, we developed a droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for detecting Fusobacterium nucleatum in stool and investigated its clinical utility in the management of colorectal tumours in a Japanese population.

Methods

Feces were collected from 60 healthy subjects (control group) and from 11 patients with colorectal non-advanced adenomas (non-advanced adenoma group), 19 patients with colorectal advanced adenoma/carcinoma in situ (advanced adenoma/carcinoma in situ (CIS) group) and 158 patients with colorectal cancer of stages I to IV (colorectal cancer group). Absolute copy numbers of Fusobacterium nucleatum were measured by droplet digital PCR.

Results

The median copy number of Fusobacterium nucleatum was 17.5 in the control group, 311 in the non-advanced adenoma group, 122 in the advanced adenoma/CIS group, and 317 in the colorectal cancer group. In comparison with that in the control group, the Fusobacterium nucleatum level was significantly higher in the non-advanced adenoma group, the advanced adenoma/CIS group and the colorectal cancer group.

Conclusions

This study illustrates the potential of stool DNA testing of Fusobacterium nucleatum by droplet digital PCR to detect individuals with colorectal tumours in a Japanese population.
White blood cell count correlates with mood symptom severity and specific mood symptoms in bipolar disorder
Authors: Köhler Ole , Sylvia Louisa G , Bowden Charles L , Calabrese Joseph R , Thase Michael , Shelton Richard C , McInnis Melvin , Tohen Mauricio , Kocsis James H , Ketter Terence A , Friedman Edward S , Deckersbach Thilo , Ostacher Michael J , Iosifescu Dan V , McElroy Susan , Nierenberg Andrew A
Published: April 2016

Objective:

Immune alterations may play a role in bipolar disorder etiology; however, the relationship between overall immune system functioning and mood symptom severity is unknown.

Methods:

The two comparative effectiveness trials, the Clinical and Health Outcomes Initiatives in Comparative Effectiveness for Bipolar Disorder Study (Bipolar CHOICE) and the Lithium Treatment Moderate-Dose Use Study (LiTMUS), were similar trials among patients with bipolar disorder. At study entry, white blood cell count and bipolar mood symptom severity (via Montgomery-Aasberg Depression Rating Scale and Bipolar Inventory of Symptoms Scale) were assessed. We performed analysis of variance and linear regression analyses to investigate relationships between deviations from median white blood cell and multinomial regression analysis between higher and lower white blood cell levels. All analyses were adjusted for age, gender, body mass index, smoking, diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

Results:

Among 482 Bipolar CHOICE participants, for each 1.0 × 109/L white blood cell deviation, the overall Bipolar Inventory of Symptoms Scale severity increased significantly among men (coefficient = 2.13; 95% confidence interval = [0.46, −3.79]; p = 0.013), but not among women (coefficient = 0.87; 95% confidence interval = [−0.87, −2.61]; p = 0.33). Interaction analyses showed a trend toward greater Bipolar Inventory of Symptoms Scale symptom severity among men (coefficient = 1.51; 95% confidence interval = [−0.81, −3.82]; p = 0.2). Among 283 LiTMUS participants, higher deviation from the median white blood cell showed a trend toward higher Montgomery-Aasberg Depression Rating Scale scores among men (coefficient = 1.33; 95% confidence interval = [−0.22, −2.89]; p = 0.09), but not among women (coefficient = 0.34; 95% confidence interval = [−0.64, −1.32]; p = 0.50). When combining LiTMUS and Bipolar CHOICE, Montgomery-Aasberg Depression Rating Scale scores increased significantly among men (coefficient = 1.09; 95% confidence interval = [0.31, −1.87]; p = 0.006) for each 1.0 × 109/L white blood cell deviation, whereas we found a weak association among women (coefficient = 0.55; 95% confidence interval = [−0.20, −1.29]; p = 0.14). Lower and higher white blood cell levels correlated with greater symptom severity and specific symptoms, varying according to gender.

Conclusion:

Deviations in an overall immune system marker, even within the normal white blood cell range, correlated with mood symptom severity in bipolar disorder, mostly among males. Studies are warranted investigating whether white blood cell count may predict response to mood-stabilizing treatment.
The effect of drilling-induced delamination on tensile strength and prediction of residual strength of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer laminate
Authors: Tao Chongcong , Qiu Jinhao , Yao Weixing , Ji Hongli
Published: April 2016

An energy-based continuum damage mechanics model was employed to investigate the effect of drilling-induced delamination on tensile strength of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer laminates and the residual strength was predicted. The decrease in tensile strength caused by delamination was investigated in detail by a finite element method (FEM) model. Experiments were also conducted to validate the numerical results. The drilling-induced delamination was measured with ultrasonic C-scan technique and modeled as deletions of corresponding cohesive elements in the FEM model. Different sizes of delamination zones were investigated and the predicted strengths were compared with experimental results. The FEM model showed that the decrease in strength is mainly caused by early failures of outer plies. Good correlation between numerical simulations and experimental results was also obtained.
Application of Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model optimized with an improved Free Search algorithm to industrial polypropylene melt index prediction
Authors: Wang Wenchuan , Chen Hongmei , Zhang Miao , Liu Xinggao , Zhang Zeyin , Sun Youxian
Published: April 2016

A new algorithm is presented for learning the Takagi–Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model from data by improved Free Search algorithm (IFS), where the rule structure (selection of rules and number of rules), input structure (selection of inputs and number of inputs) and parameters of the T-S fuzzy model are all represented as individuals of the IFS and evolved together such that the optimization of the rule structure, the input structure and the parameters can be achieved simultaneously. The developed IFS-T-S model is used for the prediction of melt index in an industrial propylene polymerization process and the results show that the proposed IFS-T-S model has a good fitting and prediction ability.
Safety of transesophageal echocardiography during extracorporeal life support
Authors: Nowak-Machen Martina , Schmid Eckhard , Schlensak Christian , Consferent Crina , Haeberle Helene A , Rosenberger Peter , Magunia Harry , Hilberath Jan N
Published: April 2016

Introduction:

Use of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has significantly increased in critically ill patients refractory to medical management. ECLS requires systemic anticoagulation to avoid thromboembolic complications and superimposed coagulopathies are common. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is frequently employed to assess cannula position and cardiac function during extracorporeal therapy. The goal of this study was to assess whether TEE probe insertion and removal in systemically anticoagulated ECLS patients was safe compared to patients without ECLS and normal coagulation studies.

Methods:

Eighty-seven separate TEE examinations in 53 adult ECLS patients were analyzed. Detailed complication profiles were logged for each patient from initiation through discontinuation of ECLS. Routine coagulation testing was recorded within two hours prior to the TEE exams. Controls consisted of age- and gender-matched patients undergoing perioperative TEE without ECLS and normal coagulation (N=87).

Results:

Overall TEE-associated morbidity in ECLS patients was 2.3% and consisted of minor oropharyngeal bleeding (2/87 TEE exams) exclusively. The patients presenting with oropharyngeal bleeding received heparin for anticoagulation and had two or more abnormal coagulation studies at the time of TEE. Seventy-nine percent of ECLS patients received intravenous heparin infusions, 6.8% argatroban and 3.4% epoprostenol. Ten-point-eight percent of patients were not anticoagulated at the time of TEE because of pre-existing bleeding complications and/or deranged plasmatic coagulation profiles. No major complications (e.g., esophageal perforation, gastrointestinal bleeding, accidental extubation) were recorded in either group.

Conclusions:

TEE remained safe in critically ill patients under ECLS, despite systemic anticoagulation, during probe insertion, manipulation and removal. TEE-related complications pertained solely to oropharyngeal bleeding amenable to conservative management.
Online Collaboration Applications Evaluated Based on Ease of Use
Authors: Margulieux Lauren E. , Chen Dar-Wei , McDonald Joseph D. , Bujak Keith R. , Gable Thomas M. , Darling Cale M. , Schaeffer Laura M. , Barg-Walkow Laura H.
Published: April 2016

Many online applications promise to unlock the power of collaborative work by connecting people from around the world. Finding an app that is appropriate for a task and easy to use, however, can be difficult. In this study, we evaluated 20 popular apps according to the basic work functions they accomplish (e.g., sharing files) and their adherence to the classic usability standards outlined by Nielsen and Molich. The results can help teams find apps that perform functions that are necessary for their tasks and ensure that the selected app is the best option for the team’s productivity.
Domestic Violence Shelters’ Efforts to Prevent Teen Dating Violence
Authors: Hawley Alicia , Black Beverly , Hoefer Richard , Barnett Tracey Marie
Published: April 2016

This research note reports data from a national survey of 213 domestic violence shelters regarding their teen dating violence (TDV) prevention efforts. More than half of the shelters reported that they provide TDV programing to at least 1/2 of the high schools in their communities; about 1/3 of shelters provide TDV programming to parents. Approximately 85% of shelters reported that they use or adapt a TDV curriculum. Shelters use information booths and Internet-based activities most often to increase public awareness, and they work through coalitions to advocate for TDV prevention efforts. This study is a first step toward documenting shelters’ TDV prevention work.
Anti–Human Trafficking Interventions
Authors: Davy Deanna
Published: April 2016

Since the early 2000s, a significant number of programs and policies have been developed and implemented to prevent and combat human trafficking. At the international, regional and national levels, government, and international, and nongovernment organizations have established plans of action, conducted training, developed policy tools, and conducted a variety of other activities to counter the phenomenon of trafficking in persons. However, only a small number of these anti–human trafficking interventions have been evaluated and an even fewer number have been evaluated rigorously. This article explores the approaches that have been used to evaluate anti–human trafficking interventions. Through a review of 49 evaluations, the study finds that action is required to increase quality evaluations of anti–human trafficking programs in order to ensure that programs are targeted, implemented, and delivered effectively, and the knowledge on the impact of programs is improved.
This is the future: A reconstruction of the UK business web space (1996–2001)
Authors: Musso Marta , Merletti Francesco
Published: April 2016

The Internet and the World Wide Web in particular have dramatically changed the way in which many companies operate. On the Web, even the smallest and most localised business has a potential global reach, and the development of online payment has redefined the selling market in most sectors. Boundaries and borders are being radically rediscussed. This article reconstructs the early approach of UK businesses to the World Wide Web between 1996 and 2001, a period in which the Web started to spread but it was not as engrained in everyday life as it would be in the following decade. While the fast and dispersed nature of the Web makes it almost impossible to accurately reconstruct the Web sphere in its historical dimension, this article proposes a methodology based on the usage of historical Web directories to access and map past Web spheres.