bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Control of Uropathogenic Microorganisms with the Ethanolic Extract from the Leaves of Cochlospermum regium (Schrank) Pilger
Authors: Leme Danny Ellen Meireles , Rodrigues Allan Belarmino , Almeida-Apolonio Adriana Araújo de , Dantas Fabiana Gomes da Silva , Negri Melyssa Fernanda Norman , Svidzinski Terezinha Inez Estivalet , Mota Jonas da Silva , Cardoso Claudia Andrea Lima , Oliveira Kelly Mari Pires de
Published: December 2017

The roots of Cochlospermum regium, popularly known as “algodãozinho‐do‐cerrado,” are used for the treatment of genitourinary infections. However, the removal of their subterranean structures results in the death of the plant, and the use of the leaves becomes a viable alternative. Therefore, the antimicrobial activity of Cochlospermum regium leaf’s ethanolic extract and its action on the biofilm formation of microorganisms associated with urinary infection were evaluated. The total phenolic compounds, flavoids, and tannins were quantified using the reagents Folin‐Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride, and vanillin, respectively. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the broth microdilution method and the effect of the extract in the biofilm treatment was measured by the drop plate method. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by the method based on the reduction of MTS and the mutagenicity by the Ames test. The ethanolic extract of C. regium leaves presented 87.4 mg/EQ of flavonoids, 167.2 mg/EAG of total phenolic compounds, and 21.7 mg/ECA of condensed tannins. It presented reduction of the biofilm formation for E. coli and C. tropicalis and antimicrobial action of 1 mg/mL and 0.5 mg/mL, respectively. The extract showed no cytotoxicity and mutagenicity at the concentrations tested. This study demonstrated that C. regium leaves are a viable option for the treatment of genitourinary infections and for the species preservation.
Shifts in Bird Migration Timing in North American Long-Distance and Short-Distance Migrants Are Associated with Climate Change
Authors: Zaifman Jay , Shan Daoyang , Ay Ahmet , Jimenez Ana Gabriela
Published: December 2017

Bird migration is a synchronized event that has evolved over thousands of years. Changing temperatures due to climate change threaten the intricacies of migration timing for birds; however, the extent of these changes has only recently begun to be addressed. Utilizing data from the citizen-science website eBird and historical temperature data, we analyzed bird migration timing in two states warming quickly (Alaska and Maine) and one warming gradually (South Carolina). Using linear regressions, we looked at relationships between different temperature indices and year with bird migration timing from 2010 to 2016. Bird migration through all three states, regardless of warming rate, showed similar rates of alterations. Additionally, in every state over half of the birds that had altered migration timing were long-distance migrants. Furthermore, we performed feature selection to determine important factors for changing migration timing of birds. Changes to summer resident and transient bird migration were most influenced by state. In winter resident migration, departure date and length of stay were most influenced by maximum temperature, while arrival date was most associated with minimum temperature. Relationships between changing temperatures and migration timing suggest that global climate change may have consequential effects on all bird migration patterns throughout the United States.
Using Distributed Data over HBase in Big Data Analytics Platform for Clinical Services
Authors: Chrimes Dillon , Zamani Hamid
Published: December 2017

Big data analytics (BDA) is important to reduce healthcare costs. However, there are many challenges of data aggregation, maintenance, integration, translation, analysis, and security/privacy. The study objective to establish an interactive BDA platform with simulated patient data using open-source software technologies was achieved by construction of a platform framework with Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) using HBase (key-value NoSQL database). Distributed data structures were generated from benchmarked hospital-specific metadata of nine billion patient records. At optimized iteration, HDFS ingestion of HFiles to HBase store files revealed sustained availability over hundreds of iterations; however, to complete MapReduce to HBase required a week (for 10 TB) and a month for three billion (30 TB) indexed patient records, respectively. Found inconsistencies of MapReduce limited the capacity to generate and replicate data efficiently. Apache Spark and Drill showed high performance with high usability for technical support but poor usability for clinical services. Hospital system based on patient-centric data was challenging in using HBase, whereby not all data profiles were fully integrated with the complex patient-to-hospital relationships. However, we recommend using HBase to achieve secured patient data while querying entire hospital volumes in a simplified clinical event model across clinical services.
Vertical Cost-Information Sharing in a Food Supply Chain with Multiple Unreliable Suppliers and Two Manufacturers
Authors: Wu Junjian , Wang Haiyan , Xu Henry
Published: December 2017

This paper considers a food supply chain where multiple suppliers provide completely substitutable food products to two manufacturers. Meanwhile, the suppliers face yield uncertainty and the manufacturers face uncertain production costs that are private information. While the suppliers compete on price, the manufacturers compete on quantity. We build a stylized multistage game theoretic model to analyze the issue of vertical cost-information sharing (VCIS) within the supply chain by considering key parameters, including the level of yield uncertainty, two manufacturers’ cost correlation, the correlated coefficient of suppliers’ yield processes, and the number of suppliers. We study the suppliers’ optimal wholesale price and the manufacturers’ optimal order quantities under different VCIS strategies. Finally, through numerical analyses, we examine how key parameters affect the value of VCIS to each supplier and each manufacturer, respectively. We found that the manufacturers are willing to share cost information with suppliers only when the two manufacturers’ cost correlation is less than a threshold. While a high correlated coefficient of suppliers’ yield processes and a large number of suppliers promote complete information sharing, a high level of yield uncertainty hinders complete information sharing. All these findings have important implications to industry practices.
Autoamputation of Genitalia in Bipolar Patient
Authors: Sharma Vinod , Sharma Aditi
Published: December 2017

According to literature, genital self-mutilation (GSM) is more commonly associated with psychosis as compared with self-mutilation as a whole. There have been many case reports of GSM in psychotic disorders. We describe herein a case of a Caucasian, employed, and married male suffering from bipolar disorder type II with history of self-mutilating behavior, who amputated his penis during symptom-free phase of his illness. Several features are reflected as risky elements for genital self-mutilation, for example, homosexual and transsexual tendencies, abandonment of the male genitals, lack of competent male for identification during childhood, feeling of guilt for sexual offences, and self-injuries in anamnesis. This report will highlight various factors responsible for self-mutilation in nonpsychotic and nondelusional person.
Elastoplastic Analysis of Circular Openings in Elasto‐Brittle‐Plastic Rock Mass Based on Logarithmic Strain
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Li Cheng , Min Ming , Jiang Binsong , Yu Liyuan
Published: December 2017

Rock‐like materials, such as coal and soft rock, often manifest larger deformation features. The prediction values for displacement and failure region based on the commonly used small strain (SS) theory are generally larger than the field test results. Based on the Euler coordinate system, the logarithmic strain (LS) is employed to describe the actual deformation behavior. Both of the stresses and displacement of circular opening in elasto‐brittle‐plastic rock mass are formulated with differential equations. And a simple approach is proposed to solve the differential equations. The results show that the plastic radius depends on the elastic parameters, that is, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio, which is different from SS theory. And the plastic radius and displacement of LS rock mass are smaller than those of SS rock mass, and the displacement of LS rock mass is absolutely smaller than the excavation radius. The proposed solutions can provide theoretical foundation for the optimization of supporting structure in underground engineering.
Mouse Thyroid Gland Changes in Aging: Implication of Galectin-3 and Sphingomyelinase
Authors: Traina Giovanna , Cataldi Samuela , Siccu Paola , Loreti Elisabetta , Ferri Ivana , Sidoni Angelo , Codini Michela , Gizzi Chiara , Sichetti Marzia , Ambesi-Impiombato Francesco Saverio , Beccari Tommaso , Curcio Francesco , Albi Elisabetta
Published: December 2017

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and its impact on cognition in older people has been demonstrated, but many points remain unclarified. In order to study the effect of aging on the thyroid gland, we compared the thyroid gland of very old mice with that of younger ones. We have first investigated the changes of thyroid microstructure and the possibility that molecules involved in thyroid function might be associated with structural changes. Results from this study indicate changes in the height of the thyrocytes and in the amplitude of interfollicular spaces, anomalous expression/localization of thyrotropin, thyrotropin receptor, and thyroglobulin aging. Thyrotropin and thyrotropin receptor are upregulated and are distributed inside the colloid while thyroglobulin fills the interfollicular spaces. In an approach aimed at defining the behavior of molecules that change in different physiopathological conditions of thyroid, such as galectin-3 and sphingomyelinase, we then wondered what was their behavior in the thyroid gland in aging. Importantly, in comparison with the thyroid of young animals, we have found a higher expression of galectin-3 and a delocalization of neutral sphingomyelinase in the thyroid of old animals. A possible relationship between galectin-3, neutral sphingomyelinase, and aging has been discussed.
Automated Incident Detection Using Real-Time Floating Car Data
Authors: Houbraken Maarten , Logghe Steven , Schreuder Marco , Audenaert Pieter , Colle Didier , Pickavet Mario
Published: December 2017

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the feasibility of a live Automated Incident Detection (AID) system using only Floating Car Data (FCD) in one of the first large-scale FCD AID field trials. AID systems detect traffic events and alert upcoming drivers to improve traffic safety without human monitoring. These automated systems traditionally rely on traffic monitoring sensors embedded in the road. FCD allows for finer spatial granularity of traffic monitoring. However, low penetration rates of FCD probe vehicles and the data latency have historically hindered FCD AID deployment. We use a live country-wide FCD system monitoring an estimated 5.93% of all vehicles. An FCD AID system is presented and compared to the installed AID system (using loop sensor data) on 2 different highways in Netherlands. Our results show the FCD AID can adequately monitor changing traffic conditions and follow the AID benchmark. The presented FCD AID is integrated with the road operator systems as part of an innovation project, making this, to the best of our knowledge, the first full chain technical feasibility trial of an FCD-only AID system. Additionally, FCD allows for AID on roads without installed sensors, allowing road safety improvements at low cost.
Investigation into the Physical Mechanism and Influencing Factors of Sympathetic Inrush for Transformers in Series
Authors: Peng Fang , Gao Houlei
Published: December 2017

Sympathetic inrush is a magnetizing inrush phenomenon generated in an in‐service transformer, when a nearby transformer in series or in parallel is energized. This phenomenon lasts longer than the general inrush and can cause protection maloperation. The study focuses on sympathetic inrush in series transformers. Flux linkage expressions for the series transformers are derived using the Laplace transform. The residual flux, switching angle, and system impedance factors are included in the expressions. The physical mechanism of the sympathetic inrush for series transformers is explained based on the characteristics of the flux linkages. The interaction between the saturated transformers during sympathetic inrush is also investigated. Moreover, the influence of the switching angle, residual flux, system impedance, and load on the inrush currents is analyzed and validated.
A Framework for Scalable TSV Assignment and Selection in Three-Dimensional Networks-on-Chips
Authors: Charif Amir , Coelho Alexandre , Zergainoh Nacer-Eddine , Nicolaidis Michael
Published: December 2017

3D integration can greatly benefit future many-cores by enabling low-latency three-dimensional Network-on-Chip (3D-NoC) topologies. However, due to high cost, low yield, and frequent failures of Through-Silicon Via (TSV), 3D-NoCs are most likely to include only a few vertical connections, resulting in incomplete topologies that pose new challenges in terms of deadlock-free routing and TSV assignment. The routers of such networks require a way to locate the nodes that have vertical connections, commonly known as elevators, and select one of them in order to be able to reach other layers when necessary. In this paper, several alternative TSV selection strategies requiring a constant amount of configurable bits per router are introduced. Each proposed solution consists of a configuration algorithm, which provides each router with the necessary information to locate the elevators, and a routing algorithm, which uses this information at runtime to route packets to an elevator. Our algorithms are compared by simulation to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each solution under various scenarios, and hardware synthesis results demonstrate the scalability of the proposed approach and its suitability for cost-oriented designs.
Statin-Induced Cancer Cell Death Can Be Mechanistically Uncoupled from Prenylation of RAS Family Proteins
Authors: Yu Rosemary , Longo Joseph , van Leeuwen Jenna E. , Mullen Peter J. , Ba-Alawi Wail , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Penn Linda Z.
Published: December 2017

The statin family of drugs preferentially triggers tumor cell apoptosis by depleting mevalonate pathway metabolites farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), which are used for protein prenylation, including the oncoproteins of the RAS superfamily. However, accumulating data indicate that activation of the RAS superfamily are poor biomarkers of statin sensitivity, and the mechanism of statin-induced tumor-specific apoptosis remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that cancer cell death triggered by statins can be uncoupled from prenylation of the RAS superfamily of oncoproteins. Ectopic expression of different members of the RAS superfamily did not uniformly sensitize cells to fluvastatin, indicating that increased cellular demand for protein prenylation cannot explain increased statin sensitivity. Although ectopic expression of HRAS increased statin sensitivity, expression of myristoylated HRAS did not rescue this effect. HRAS-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through activation of zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) sensitized tumor cells to the antiproliferative activity of statins, and induction of EMT by ZEB1 was sufficient to phenocopy the increase in fluvastatin sensitivity; knocking out ZEB1 reversed this effect. Publicly available gene expression and statin sensitivity data indicated that enrichment of EMT features was associated with increased sensitivity to statins in a large panel of cancer cell lines across multiple cancer types. These results indicate that the anticancer effect of statins is independent from prenylation of RAS family proteins and is associated with a cancer cell EMT phenotype.

Significance: The use of statins to target cancer cell EMT may be useful as a therapy to block cancer progression. Cancer Res; 78(5); 1347–57. ©2017 AACR.
Downregulating Neuropilin-2 Triggers a Novel Mechanism Enabling EGFR-Dependent Resistance to Oncogene-Targeted Therapies
Authors: Rizzolio Sabrina , Battistini Chiara , Cagnoni Gabriella , Apicella Maria , Vella Viviana , Giordano Silvia , Tamagnone Luca
Published: December 2017

Neuropilins are a class of cell surface proteins implicated in cell migration and angiogenesis, with aberrant expression in human tumors. Here, we show that the expression of Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) controls EGFR protein levels, thereby impinging on intracellular signaling, viability, and response to targeted therapies of oncogene-addicted cells. Notably, increased NRP2 expression in EGFR-addicted tumor cells led to downregulation of EGFR protein and tumor cell growth inhibition. NRP2 also blunted upregulation of an EGFR "rescue" pathway induced by targeted therapy in Met-addicted carcinoma cells. Cancer cells acquiring resistance to MET oncogene-targeted drugs invariably underwent NRP2 loss, a step required for EGFR upregulation. Mechanistic investigations revealed that NRP2 loss activated NFkB and upregulated the EGFR-associated protein KIAA1199/CEMIP, which is known to oppose the degradation of activated EGFR kinase. Notably, KIAA1199 silencing in oncogene-addicted tumor cells improved therapeutic responses and counteracted acquired drug resistance. Our findings define NRP2 as the pivotal switch of a novel broad-acting and actionable pathway controlling EGFR signaling, and driving resistance to therapies targeting oncogene-addiction.

Significance: These important findings identify the cell surface molecule Nrp2 as the pivotal switch of a novel, actionable pathway driving EGFR upregulation and resistance to oncogene- targeted therapies. Cancer Res; 78(4); 1058–68. ©2017 AACR.
CDKN2A/p16Deletion in Head and Neck Cancer Cells Is Associated with CDK2 Activation, Replication Stress, and Vulnerability to CHK1 Inhibition
Authors: Gadhikar Mayur A. , Zhang Jiexin , Shen Li , Rao Xiayu , Wang Jing , Zhao Mei , Kalu Nene N. , Johnson Faye M. , Byers Lauren A. , Heymach John , Hittelman Walter N. , Udayakumar Durga , Pandita Raj K. , Pandita Tej K. , Pickering Curtis R. , Redwood Abena B. , Piwnica-Worms Helen , Schlacher Katharina , Frederick Mitchell J. , Myers Jeffrey N.
Published: December 2017

Checkpoint kinase inhibitors (CHKi) exhibit striking single-agent activity in certain tumors, but the mechanisms accounting for hypersensitivity are poorly understood. We screened a panel of 49 established human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines and report that nearly 20% are hypersensitive to CHKi monotherapy. Hypersensitive cells underwent early S-phase arrest at drug doses sufficient to inhibit greater than 90% of CHK1 activity. Reduced rate of DNA replication fork progression and chromosomal shattering were also observed, suggesting replication stress as a root causative factor in CHKi hypersensitivity. To explore genomic underpinnings of CHKi hypersensitivity, comparative genomic analysis was performed between hypersensitive cells and cells categorized as least sensitive because they showed drug IC50 value greater than the cell panel median and lacked early S-phase arrest. Novel association between CDKN2A/p16 copy number loss, CDK2 activation, replication stress, and hypersensitivity of HNSCC cells to CHKi monotherapy was found. Restoring p16 in cell lines harboring CDKN2A/p16 genomic deletions alleviated CDK2 activation and replication stress, attenuating CHKi hypersensitivity. Taken together, our results suggest a biomarker-driven strategy for selecting HNSCC patients who may benefit the most from CHKi therapy.

Significance: These results suggest a biomarker-driven strategy for selecting HNSCC patients who may benefit the most from therapy with CHK inhibitors. Cancer Res; 78(3); 781–97. ©2017 AACR.
A2AR Adenosine Signaling Suppresses Natural Killer Cell Maturation in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Young Arabella , Ngiow Shin Foong , Gao Yulong , Patch Ann-Marie , Barkauskas Deborah S. , Messaoudene Meriem , Lin Gene , Coudert Jerome D. , Stannard Kimberley A. , Zitvogel Laurence , Degli-Esposti Mariapia A. , Vivier Eric , Waddell Nicola , Linden Joel , Huntington Nicholas D. , Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes Fernando , Smyth Mark J.
Published: December 2017

Extracellular adenosine is a key immunosuppressive metabolite that restricts activation of cytotoxic lymphocytes and impairs antitumor immune responses. Here, we show that engagement of A2A adenosine receptor (A2AR) acts as a checkpoint that limits the maturation of natural killer (NK) cells. Both global and NK-cell–specific conditional deletion of A2AR enhanced proportions of terminally mature NK cells at homeostasis, following reconstitution, and in the tumor microenvironment. Notably, A2AR-deficient, terminally mature NK cells retained proliferative capacity and exhibited heightened reconstitution in competitive transfer assays. Moreover, targeting A2AR specifically on NK cells also improved tumor control and delayed tumor initiation. Taken together, our results establish A2AR-mediated adenosine signaling as an intrinsic negative regulator of NK-cell maturation and antitumor immune responses. On the basis of these findings, we propose that administering A2AR antagonists concurrently with NK cell–based therapies may heighten therapeutic benefits by augmenting NK cell–mediated antitumor immunity.

Significance: Ablating adenosine signaling is found to promote natural killer cell maturation and antitumor immunity and reduce tumor growth. Cancer Res; 78(4); 1003–16. ©2017 AACR.
High Phosphate-Induced Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells is Associated with the TLR4/NF-κb Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Daohai , Bi Xianjin , Liu Yong , Huang Yinghui , Xiong Jiachuan , Xu Xinli , Xiao Tangli , Yu Yanlin , Jiang Wei , Huang Yunjian , Zhang Jingbo , Zhang Bo , Zhao Jinghong
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Hyperphosphatemia is one of the most notable features of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Numerous epidemiological and clinical studies have found that high serum phosphate concentrations are associated with calcification in the coronary arteries. However, the mechanisms underlying the vascular calcification induced by high phosphate have not been understood fully. Methods: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were cultured in high-phosphate media to induce vascular calcification, which was detected by Alizarin red S staining. Gene expression and protein levels of differentiation markers were determined by real-time RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. Protein levels of phosphorylated NF-κB and TLR4 were detected by western blotting, and the role of NF-κB/TLR4 was further confirmed by using an NF-κB inhibitor or TLR4 siRNA. Results: Our results showed that high-phosphate media induced obvious calcification of VSMCs. Simultaneously, VSMC differentiation was confirmed by the increased expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and Runt-related transcription factor 2 and decreased expression of the VSMC-specific marker SM22α, which was accompanied by the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, a significant upregulation of TLR4 and phosphorylated NF-κB was also detected in VSMCs with high-phosphate media. In contrast, VSMC calcification and the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines were markedly attenuated by pretreatment with TLR4 siRNA and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamic acid, an NF-κB inhibitor. Conclusion: These data suggest that high-phosphate conditions directly induce vascular calcification via the activation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling in VSMCs. Moreover, inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway might be a key intervention to prevent vascular calcification in patients with CKD.
Targeting Transmembrane BAX Inhibitor Motif Containing 1 Alleviates Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Deng Ke-Qiong , Zhao Guang-Nian , Wang Zhihua , Fang Jing , Jiang Zhou , Gong Jun , Yan Feng-Juan , Zhu Xue-Yong , Zhang Peng , She Zhi-Gang , Li Hongliang
Published: December 2017

Background:

Cardiac hypertrophy and its resultant heart failure are among the most common causes of mortality worldwide. Abnormal protein degradation, especially the impaired lysosomal degradation of large organelles and membrane proteins, is involved in the progression of cardiac hypertrophy. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated.

Methods:

We investigated cardiac transmembrane BAX inhibitor motif containing 1 (TMBIM1) mRNA and protein expression levels in samples from patients with heart failure and mice with aortic banding (AB)–induced cardiac hypertrophy. We generated cardiac-specific
Tmbim1
knockout mice and cardiac-specific
Tmbim1
-overexpressing transgenic mice and then challenged them with AB surgery. We used microarray, confocal image, and coimmunoprecipitation analyses to identify the downstream targets of TMBIM1 in cardiac hypertrophy.
Tmbim1
/
Tlr4
double-knockout mice were generated to investigate whether the effects of TMBIM1 on cardiac hypertrophy were Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) dependent. Finally, lentivirus-mediated
TMBIM1
overexpression in a monkey AB model was performed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of TMBIM1.

Results:

TMBIM1 expression was significantly downregulated on hypertrophic stimuli in both human and mice heart samples. Silencing cardiac
Tmbim1
aggravated AB-induced cardiac hypertrophy. This effect was blunted by
Tmbim1
overexpression. Transcriptome profiling revealed that the TLR4 signaling pathway was disrupted dramatically by manipulation of
Tmbim1
. The effects of TMBIM1 on cardiac hypertrophy were shown to be dependent on TLR4 in double-knockout mice. Fluorescent staining indicated that TMBIM1 promoted the lysosome-mediated degradation of activated TLR4. Coimmunoprecipitation assays confirmed that TMBIM1 directly interacted with tumor susceptibility gene 101 via a PTAP motif and accelerated the formation of multivesicular bodies that delivered TLR4 to the lysosomes. Finally, lentivirus-mediated
TMBIM1
overexpression reversed AB-induced cardiac hypertrophy in monkeys.

Conclusions:

TMBIM1 protects against pathological cardiac hypertrophy through promoting the lysosomal degradation of activated TLR4. Our findings reveal the central role of TMBIM1 as a multivesicular body regulator in the progression of pathological cardiac hypertrophy, as well as the role of vesicle trafficking in signaling regulation during cardiac hypertrophy. Moreover, targeting TMBIM1 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for treating cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
One Heavenly Kingdom, Two Governments: Mainland China and Taiwan
Authors: Kuo Cheng-tian
Published: December 2017

Over the past three decades political relationships between mainland China and Taiwan have fluctuated precariously between warm peace and cold war. Instead of playing the role of the biblical peacemaker, Christian theologians on both sides have developed irreconcilable nationalist theologies in order to sanctify their respective nationalist programs: Chinese unification versus Taiwanese independence. For the purpose of constructing peace across the Taiwan Strait, a new political theology needs to be built on the centrality of religious freedom to be found in the Bible, democratic values, and the actual politics of both China and Taiwan. The second section of this article analyzes the biblical sources of a Chinese unification theology and a Taiwanese independence theology. The third and fourth sections introduce the historical development of nationalism and nationalist theology in both societies. The fifth section concludes by proposing a democratic union theology that builds on the centrality of religious freedom in the Bible, democratic values, and actual politics.
The Le Corbusier Scandal, or, was Le Corbusier a Fascist?
Authors: Brott Simone
Published: December 2017

In 2015 an essay by the architect Marc Perelman was printed in Le Monde claiming Le Corbusier was a fascist and that the French academy had whitewashed this from architectural history. The 2015 exhibition Le Corbusier: Mesures de l’homme, a major retrospective of the architect, held at the Centre Pompidou was adduced as evidence since it did not mention Le Corbusier’s politics, despite three French books on Le Corbusier’s fascism appearing in 2015, and the scandal that erupted around them. The letter was signed by myself, Zeev Sternhell, Xavier de Jarcy, Marc Perelman, and Daniel de Roulet; and reprinted in English by Verso in January 2017. The Fondation le Corbusier, who are unhappy with this turn of events, wrote to me asking me why I signed the letter. This essay will attempt to answer the question by evaluating the French quarrel, on both sides, and allegations about Le Corbusier’s fascism.
The Legal Status of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007) in Contemporary International Human Rights Law
Authors: Barnabas Sylvanus Gbendazhi
Published: December 2017

This article explores the legal status or effect of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (undrip) in contemporary international human rights law. As a United Nations General Assembly (unga) resolution, the legal significance of undrip may appear uncertain on the surface. However, several unga resolutions do carry some legal weight with far-reaching legal implications in international law. For example, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 (udhr) has been widely accepted, at least in part, as forming part of customary international law. Through a critical examination of relevant literature and some decisions of international, regional and national courts, this article examines whether the undrip, in whole or in part, reflects customary international law. It also considers the relationship of the undrip with other international human rights instruments, and whether it should be applied as part of general principles of law on issues that are essential to indigenous peoples such as non-discrimination, self-identification, land rights and development.
Fading Anti-systemicness: Tawhidi Islamists in Turkey
Authors: Perekli Feriha
Published: December 2017

This article traces a process of modifications undertaken by anti-systemic tawhidi Islamists over two decades. Disillusioned with the failure to capture the state through an Iranian-style mass uprising, tawhidi Islamists began to disengage in large numbers from their holy cause starting from the 1990s. As those who disengaged were co-opted by parliamentarian Islamism, the activists who persisted abandoned their revolutionary approach. In spite of engaging in a tactical revisionism, they retained their non-accommodationist stance vis-à-vis the established political order. Yet, in the late 2000s, they accommodated with the new established order, rendering their anti-systemicness obsolete. The article maintains that (1) despite disengagements, tawhidi Islamism as a movement did not completely vanish, but instead committed core activists continued their mobilization by reevaluating their tactics; (2) accommodation with the status quo became possible as the new established order and its policies were perceived as opportunities toward advancing Islamist mobilization.
The Ethical Presupposition of Historical Understanding
Authors: Elgabsi Natan
Published: December 2017

Discussions on Marc Bloch usually focus on The Annales School, his comparative method, or his defence of a distinct historical science. In contrast, I emphasise his seldom-investigated ideas of what historical understanding should involve. I contend that Bloch distinguishes between three different ethical attitudes in studying people and ways of life from the past: scientific passivity; critical judgements; understanding. The task of the historian amounts to understanding other worlds in their own terms. This essay is an exploration of Bloch’s methodology and what historical understanding is needed to do justice to cultures that belong to the past, both conceptually and practically.
Trogia benghalensis (Marasmiaceae, Basidiomycota), a new species from India
Authors: DUTTA ARUN KUMAR , NANDI SUDESHNA , TARAFDER ENTAJ , SIKDER RIMPA , ROY ANIRBAN , ACHARYA KRISHNENDU
Published: December 2017

A new species of Trogia (Marasmiaceae, Basidiomycota) is described from West Bengal, India. Analysis of the molecular sequence (nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region) data suggests that T. benghalesis is phylogenetically distinct from its closely related species. Comprehensive description based on macro- and microscopic characters, photographs and comparisons with morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are provided.
The Arctic System Reanalysis, Version 2
Authors: Bromwich D. H. , Wilson A. B. , Bai L. , Liu Z. , Barlage M. , Shih C.-F. , Maldonado S. , Hines K. M. , Wang S.-H. , Woollen J. , Kuo B. , Lin H.-C. , Wee T.-K. , Serreze M. C. , Walsh J. E.
Published: December 2017

The Arctic is a vital component of the global climate, and its rapid environmental evolution is an important element of climate change around the world. To detect and diagnose the changes occurring to the coupled Arctic climate system, a state-of-the-art synthesis for assessment and monitoring is imperative. This paper presents the Arctic System Reanalysis, version 2 (ASRv2), a multiagency, university-led retrospective analysis (reanalysis) of the greater Arctic region using blends of the polar-optimized version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (Polar WRF) Model and WRF three-dimensional variational data assimilated observations for a comprehensive integration of the regional climate of the Arctic for 2000–12. New features in ASRv2 compared to version 1 (ASRv1) include 1) higher-resolution depiction in space (15-km horizontal resolution), 2) updated model physics including subgrid-scale cloud fraction interaction with radiation, and 3) a dual outer-loop routine for more accurate data assimilation. ASRv2 surface and pressure-level products are available at 3-hourly and monthly mean time scales at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). Analysis of ASRv2 reveals superior reproduction of near-surface and tropospheric variables. Broadscale analysis of forecast precipitation and site-specific comparisons of downward radiative fluxes demonstrate significant improvement over ASRv1. The high-resolution topography and land surface, including weekly updated vegetation and realistic sea ice fraction, sea ice thickness, and snow-cover depth on sea ice, resolve finescale processes such as topographically forced winds. Thus, ASRv2 permits a reconstruction of the rapid change in the Arctic since the beginning of the twenty-first century–complementing global reanalyses. ASRv2 products will be useful for environmental models, verification of regional processes, or siting of future observation networks.
A Positive Feedback Process Related to the Rapid Development of an Extratropical Cyclone over the Kuroshio/Kuroshio Extension
Authors: Hirata Hidetaka , Kawamura Ryuichi , Kato Masaya , Shinoda Taro
Published: December 2017

The active roles of sensible heat supply from the Kuroshio/Kuroshio Extension in the rapid development of an extratropical cyclone, which occurred in the middle of January 2013, were examined by using a regional cloud-resolving model. In this study, a control experiment and three sensitivity experiments without sensible and latent heat fluxes from the warm currents were conducted. When the cyclone intensified, sensible heat fluxes from these currents become prominent around the cold conveyor belt (CCB) in the control run. Comparisons among the four runs revealed that the sensible heat supply facilitates deepening of the cyclone’s central pressure, CCB development, and enhanced latent heating over the bent-back front. The sensible heat supply enhances convectively unstable conditions within the atmospheric boundary layer along the CCB. The increased convective instability is released by the forced ascent associated with frontogenesis around the bent-back front, eventually promoting updraft and resultant latent heating. Additionally, the sensible heating leads to an increase in the water vapor content of the saturated air related to the CCB through an increase in the saturation mixing ratio. This increased water vapor content reinforces the moisture flux convergence at the bent-back front, contributing to the activation of latent heating. Previous research has proposed a positive feedback process between the CCB and latent heating over the bent-back front in terms of moisture supply from warm currents. Considering the above two effects of the sensible heat supply, this study revises the positive feedback process.
Formulary Drug Reviews: Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir
Authors: Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: December 2017

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are available online to subscribers. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, contact Wolters Kluwer customer service at 866-397-3433.
Investigation of the effect of the sling angle and size on the reliability of lifting hooks
Authors: Onur Yusuf Aytaç
Published: December 2017

The lifting hook is one of the vital components in material handling systems, since sudden accidents are unavoidable if the working reliability of the hook is poor. In this study, computer-aided single hook modeling is done in accordance with the DIN 15401 standard then extensive stress analyses at different sling sizes and angles and stress analyses when the hook is rigged by sling legs with unequal leg length and rigged by sling legs with unequal leg length and height have been conducted in order to reveal the effect of sling size and angle and different rigging manners on the safety factor of the lifting hook by using finite element simulation. Loads carried by each sling member are calculated and presented. Curved beam theory and simplified theory are employed to compare finite element simulation results. The critical sling angle at which the safety factor reduces evidently has been determined by altering the sling size and angle. The critical sling angle is found to be 51°, since reduction in the safety factor originates from a 51° sling angle.
Adaptive neural network control for course-keeping of ships with input constraints
Authors: Wang Qingling , Sun Changyin , Chen Yangyang
Published: December 2017

In this paper, an adaptive neural network (NN) control method is proposed for the problem of nonlinear course control of ships with input constraints and unknown direction control gains. Specifically, dynamic surface control is used to overcome the problem of explosion of complexity inherent in the backstepping technique, and the Nussbaum function is employed to deal with the unknown signs of control gains. It is proved that the proposed adaptive NN control method, which is composed of dynamic surface control and a backstepping technique with the Nussbaum gain function, is able to guarantee uniform ultimate boundedness of all the signals in the controlled system. In addition, the tracking error between the output of the controlled system and a desired trajectory is shown to converge to a small neighbourhood of the origin. Finally, one example is introduced to illustrate the proposed theoretical results.
Insincerity Overboard: Sincerity and Nausea in Byron’s Don Juan
Authors: Dudova Marketa
Published: December 2017

This article focuses on the seasickness scene in the second canto of Byron’s Don Juan. The scene is analysed through the discourse of sincerity defined by Trilling and Girard. It is argued that in Don Juan sincerity is explored through unmediated responses of the body. This is exemplified in the seasickness scene, where vomiting is understood as Juan’s response to Julia’s insincere and pretentious love letter.
“A Divine Kind of Rhetoric”: Rhetorical Strategy and Spirit-Wrought Sincerity in English Puritan Writing
Authors: Parry David
Published: December 2017

In their endeavors to persuade their readers and hearers to conversion and godly living, Puritan writers and preachers in early modern England make use of the three modes of persuasion identified by Aristotle: logos (appeal to rational argument), pathos (appeal to emotion), and ethos (appeal to the perceived credibility of the speaker). Although deploying rhetorical techniques, Puritan writers seek to manifest a Spirit-wrought sincerity, understood as earnest expression flowing from doctrinal conviction, inward spiritual experience, and a heartfelt desire to persuade others. This article explores these dynamics in the works of William Perkins, Richard Sibbes, Richard Baxter, and John Bunyan.
w/Sincerity, Part 2: A Theological Concept That Never Left
Authors: Spencer Caleb D.
Published: December 2017

The history of sincerity includes prominent arguments about the decline (even death) of sincerity. In this article I argue that sincerity has not declined or died in the post-modern and contemporary age. Rather this period has revivified Classical Christian, Medieval, Enlightenment and Romantic modes of self-representation that focus on representational fidelity to your own feelings, experiences, and beliefs. In turn I suggest these foci have long been understood to be morally significant within Christian theological anthropologies and frameworks going back to figures like Augustine, Scotus, and Luther.
Avoidant and defensive: Adult attachment and quality of apologies
Authors: Schumann Karina , Orehek Edward
Published: December 2017

After committing an offense, transgressors face an important decision regarding how to respond to the people they hurt. Do they make themselves emotionally vulnerable by offering high-quality, comprehensive apologies? Or do they seek to protect themselves with defensive strategies, such as justifications and excuses? In two studies, we examined the link between attachment styles and apology quality. We hypothesized that because people high in attachment avoidance are uncomfortable with emotional vulnerability and tend to defensively disengage from the emotional aspects of relationships, they would offer less comprehensive and more defensive apologies. In Study 1, participants imagined hurting a friend and then rated their likelihood of using each of eight apology elements and five defensive strategies. In Study 2, participants wrote a real e-mail to a person they had hurt. Our prediction was supported in both studies, suggesting that attachment avoidance plays an important role in how transgressors manage their offenses.
Does a strategic planning process that combines rational and adaptive characteristics pay off ? Evidence from European firms
Authors: Ouakouak Mohamed Laid
Published: December 2017

Rational strategic planning has long been used as an instrument to improve financial performance. With the increasing complexity of the business environment, this positive impact has decreased. As a result, there have been several calls for more work focusing on investigating and understanding the strategic planning process and how it affects financial performance. Many recent studies suggest that a rational approach to strategic planning should be combined with an adaptive approach to build a hybrid approach that is better suited to the current dynamic and complex environment. The purpose of this research is to examine how a strategic planning process that combines rational characteristics and adaptive characteristics improves financial performance. To this end, this study develops and empirically tests a conceptual model, using a quantitative study of 335 European organizations. A combined strategic planning process has a positive impact on financial performance, through the mediators of employee strategic alignment and organizational capabilities.

JEL Classification: L10, L25
Time-Dependent Recovery of Human Synovial Membrane Mesenchymal Stem Cell Function After High-Dose Steroid Therapy: Case Report and Laboratory Study
Authors: Yasui Yukihiko , Hart David A. , Sugita Norihiko , Chijimatsu Ryota , Koizumi Kota , Ando Wataru , Moriguchi Yu , Shimomura Kazunori , Myoui Akira , Yoshikawa Hideki , Nakamura Norimasa
Published: December 2017

Background:

The use of mesenchymal stem cells from various tissue sources to repair injured tissues has been explored over the past decade in large preclinical models and is now moving into the clinic.

Purpose:

To report the case of a patient who exhibited compromised mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) function shortly after use of high-dose steroid to treat Bell’s palsy, who recovered 7 weeks after therapy.

Study Design:

Case report and controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A patient enrolled in a first-in-human clinical trial for autologous implantation of a scaffold-free tissue engineered construct (TEC) derived from synovial MSCs for chondral lesion repair had a week of high-dose steroid therapy for Bell’s palsy. Synovial tissue was harvested for MSC preparation after a 3-week recovery period and again at 7 weeks after therapy.

Results:

The MSC proliferation rates and cell surface marker expression profiles from the 3-week sample met conditions for further processing. However, the cells failed to generate a functional TEC. In contrast, MSCs harvested at 7 weeks after steroid therapy were functional in this regard. Further in vitro studies with MSCs and steroids indicated that the effect of in vivo steroids was likely a direct effect of the drug on the MSCs.

Conclusion:

This case suggests that MSCs are transiently compromised after high-dose steroid therapy and that careful consideration regarding timing of MSC harvest is critical.

Clinical Relevance:

The drug profiles of MSC donors and recipients must be carefully monitored to optimize opportunities to successfully repair damaged tissues.
A cross-cultural approach to eating together: Practices of commensality among French, German and Spanish young adults
Authors: Danesi Giada
Published: December 2017

This article explores commensal practices of French, German and Spanish young adults. In doing so, it aims to fill a gap in research on commensality and on contemporary eating practices in Europe within a qualitative cross-cultural approach. The different nationalities of the informants, along with their country of residence, contribute to emphasizing cultural diversity and laying the foundations for the highlighting of poignant differences between French, German and Spanish young people, particularly in relation to meal times and content, places of food sociability, social organization surrounding shared meals and the role of food sharing in their social life. These aspects reveal different social meanings attached to food and commensality, as well as variability of commensal forms between young people living in or coming from different European countries.