bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding and Mitigating Covert Channels Through Branch Predictors
Authors: Evtyushkin Dmitry , Ponomarev Dmitry , Abu-Ghazaleh Nael
Published: March 2016

Covert channels through shared processor resources provide secret communication between two malicious processes: the trojan and the spy. In this article, we classify, analyze, and compare covert channels through dynamic branch prediction units in modern processors. Through experiments on a real hardware platform, we compare contention-based channel and the channel that is based on exploiting the branch predictor’s residual state. We analyze these channels in SMT and single-threaded environments under both clean and noisy conditions. Our results show that the residual state-based channel provides a cleaner signal and is effective even in noisy execution environments with another application sharing the same physical core with the trojan and the spy. We also estimate the capacity of the branch predictor covert channels and describe a software-only mitigation technique that is based on randomizing the state of the predictor tables on context switches. We show that this protection eliminates all covert channels through the branch prediction unit with minimal impact on performance.
The effects of microvesicles on endothelial progenitor cells are compromised in type 2 diabetic patients via downregulation of the miR-126/VEGFR2 pathway
Authors: Wu Keng , Yang Yi , Zhong Yun , Ammar Hala Mustafa , Zhang Peihua , Guo Runmin , Liu Hua , Cheng Chuanfang , Koroscil Thomas M. , Chen Yanfang , Liu Shiming , Bihl Ji C.
Published: March 2016

Our previous study showed that circulating microvesicles (cMVs) of diabetic mice have negative effects on the function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Whether this is true in diabetic patients deserves further study. In this study, the effects of cMVs and EPC-derived MVs (EPC-MVs) on EPC migration, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in healthy controls, well-controlled, and uncontrolled diabetic patients were investigated. The levels of miR-126 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in cMVs, EPC-MVs, and/or EPCs were analyzed. Moreover, miR-126 inhibitor or mimic was applied to EPCs to modulate the miR-126 level in EPC-MVs. We found the following: 1) the circulating EPC level was reduced but the circulating EPC-MV level increased in uncontrolled diabetic patients; 2) the cMVs and EPC-MVs of healthy controls had beneficial effects on EPCs (migration, apoptosis, ROS), whereas the effects were reversely changed in the cMVs and EPC-MVs of uncontrolled diabetic patients; and 3) the cMVs and EPC-MVs of uncontrolled diabetic patients carried less miR-126 and had downregulated VEGFR2 expression in EPCs. Manipulating the miR-126 level in EPC-MVs with inhibitor or mimic changed their function. The effects of cMVs and EPC-MVs are compromised in diabetes due to the reduction of their carried miR-126, which might provide a therapy target for diabetic vascular complications.
PDGF Engages an E2F-USP1 Signaling Pathway to Support ID2-Mediated Survival of Proneural Glioma Cells
Authors: Rahme Gilbert J. , Zhang Zhonghua , Young Alison L. , Cheng Chao , Bivona Eric J. , Fiering Steven N. , Hitoshi Yasuyuki , Israel Mark A.
Published: March 2016

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumor and responds poorly to currently available therapies. Transcriptomic characterization of glioblastoma has identified distinct molecular subtypes of glioblastoma. Gain-of-function alterations leading to enhanced platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling are commonly observed in the proneural subtype of glioblastoma and can drive gliomagenesis. However, little is known about the downstream effectors of PDGF signaling in glioblastoma. Using a mouse model of proneural glioma and comparative transcriptomics, we determined that PDGF signaling upregulated ubiquitin-specific peptidase 1 (Usp1) to promote the survival of murine proneural glioma cells. Mechanistically, we found that PDGF signaling regulated the expression of the E2F transcription factors, which directly bound to and activated Usp1. Furthermore, PDGF-mediated expression of USP1 led to the stabilization of Inhibitor of DNA-binding 2 (ID2), which we found to be required for glioma cell survival. Genetic ablation of Id2 delayed tumor-induced mortality, and pharmacologic inhibition of USP1, resulting in decreased ID2 levels, also delayed tumorigenesis in mice. Notably, decreased USP1 expression was associated with prolonged survival in patients with proneural glioblastoma, but not with other subtypes of glioblastoma. Collectively, our findings describe a signaling cascade downstream of PDGF that sustains proneural glioblastoma cells and suggest that inhibition of the PDGF–E2F–USP1–ID2 axis could serve as a therapeutic strategy for proneural glioblastoma featuring increased PDGF signaling. Cancer Res; 76(10); 2964–76. ©2016 AACR.
Aortic Valve Gradient and Clinical Outcome in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation for Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Witberg Guy , Barsheshet Alon , Assali Abid , Vaknin-Assa Hana , Shaul Aviv A. , Orvin Katia , Vaturi Moti , Schwartzenberg Shmuel , Shapira Yaron , Sagie Alexander , Kornowski Ran
Published: March 2016

Objectives: To explore the relation between the baseline aortic valve gradient (AVG) as a continuous variable and clinical outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in general and specifically in patients with high-gradient aortic stenosis (AS). Methods: We reviewed 317 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI at our institution. We investigated the relation between AVG as a continuous/categorical variable and outcome among all patients and in patients without low-flow low-gradient AS, using the Cox proportional hazard model adjusting for multiple prognostic variables. Results: Patients had a peak AVG of 79.9 ± 22.8 mm Hg (mean 50.5 ±15.7). During a mean follow-up of 2.7 years, AVG was inversely associated with mortality and mortality or cardiac hospitalization. Every 10-mm-Hg increase in peak AVG was associated with 18% reduction in mortality (p = 0.003) and 19% reduction in mortality/cardiac hospitalization (p < 0.001). Every 10-mm-Hg increase in mean AVG was associated with a 24% reduction in both outcomes (p = 0.005 and p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis of patients with left-ventricular ejection fraction >40% or peak AVG >64 mm Hg yielded similar results. Conclusions: Mean and peak baseline AVGs are directly associated with improved outcomes after TAVI; AVG can be used to select the patients most likely to benefit from TAVI.
Fractionation of Source Materials Leads to a High Reproducibility of the SQ House Dust Mite SLIT-Tablets
Authors: Henmar Helene , Frisenette Sofie Marie Toft , Grosch Karin , Nielsen Kim , Smith Gary , Sønderkær Susanne , Larsen Jørgen Nedergaard
Published: March 2016

Background: The production of house dust mite (HDM) allergen products for allergy immunotherapy has traditionally been based on purified mite bodies or whole-mite culture, which are quite different source materials with a limited possibility for adjusting the chemical composition. The SQ HDM SLIT-tablet is a fast-dissolving pharmaceutical formulation that has been developed for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) of HDM respiratory allergic disease. Objective: The objective of the present study was to establish a process for the production of drug substances for the SQ HDM SLIT-tablet offering a high reproducibility and independent control of the major allergens. Methods: Process controls were documented in a comprehensive process parameter qualification. The analyses comprised composition by crossed immunoelectrophoresis, protein content by BCA, total IgE binding potency by Centaur assay, quantitative major allergen determination by radial immunodiffusion and ELISA, and the ranking of emPAI scores generated by mass spectrometry. Results: Analysis of 20 batches of final product yielded a normalized mean and standard deviation for IgE binding potency of 100 ± 4.5. The standard deviation in the contents of Der f 1 and Der p 1 were correspondingly 11.9 and 6.1, whereas the variation in the group 2 major allergen content was 6.4. All measured 95% confidence limits between batches were less than 12%. Conclusions: The production process for the SQ HDM SLIT-tablet based on the separation of source material into four fractions each enriched in one major allergen enables precise adjustment of the relative major allergen content and high reproducibility of the final product.
Increased Levels of Interleukin-33 and Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin in Exhaled Breath Condensate in Chronic Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Glück Joanna , Rymarczyk Barbara , Kasprzak Mirosława , Rogala Barbara
Published: March 2016

Background: Epithelium-derived cytokines such as thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), interleukin (IL)-25, and IL-33 are important contributors to inflammation in asthma. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is a noninvasive method used to assess the inflammation of airways. Our aim was to assess the levels of TSLP, IL-25, IL-33, and its receptor ST2l/IL-1 R4 in EBC in patients with asthma and to correlate these with serum levels and asthma control. Methods: EBC and serum levels of TSLP, IL-25, IL-33, and ST2l/IL-1 R4 were measured in 44 patients with chronic bronchial asthma (14 in the uncontrolled phase) and 19 healthy control participants. Results: EBC levels of IL-33 and TSLP and serum levels of IL-33 were statistically higher in patients with asthma than in controls. IL-25 and ST2l/IL-1 R4 were present in EBC at barely detectable levels and were not analyzed. The EBC and serum levels of all studied mediators did not differ between controlled and uncontrolled asthma patients, except for the serum level of ST2l/IL-1 R4, which was higher in uncontrolled asthma. There were no correlations between serum and EBC levels of TSLP and IL-33 or between either serum and EBC levels and the forced expiratory volume in 1 s or the total IgE level. Conclusions: Higher levels of IL-33 and TSLP in EBC provide evidence supporting a role for these mediators in asthma. Their levels do not discriminate between controlled and uncontrolled asthma. The local reaction within the epithelium is independent of the systemic reaction.
Electrical Stimulation of the Spinal Dorsal Root Inhibits Reflex Bladder Contraction and External Urethra Sphincter Activity: Is This How Sacral Neuromodulation Works?
Authors: Ren Jian , Chew Daniel J. , Thiruchelvam Nikesh
Published: March 2016

Introduction: Using a rat model, we aimed to confirm the inhibitory effect of dorsal spinal root (afferent) stimulation and test if bilateral stimulation is more effective than unilateral stimulation. External urethral sphincter (EUS) electromyography (EMG) is also assessed in conjunction with cystometrogram. Materials and Methods: Eighteen female Sprague-Dawley rats were tested following urethane anesthesia. Via urethral catheterization, the bladder was infused with normal saline to evoke rhythmic bladder reflex contractions (BRC). L6 spinal nerves were isolated and stimulated. Results: L6 stimulation was effective in inhibiting BRC. L6 bilateral dorsal root (DR) stimulation of 50% intensity was required to cause inhibition as compared to unilateral stimulation. In EUS EMG recordings, there was a strong association between EUS EMG activities and bladder contraction. When the bladder contraction was inhibited effectively by L6 DR stimulation, a considerable reduction was also found in the EUS EMG activities. Conclusions: L6 DR stimulation abolished BRC in our rat model. Bilateral L6 DR stimulation produced a 50% reduction in stimulation intensity, providing a similar BRC block. Abolishing BRC also appeared to coincide with a reduction in EUS EMG, implicating that sacral neuromodulation might act centrally, at least rostrally at the T8-9 spinal level.
Years in Review: Recent Progress in Cellular Allergology
Authors: Kratzer Bernhard , Pickl Winfried F.
Published: March 2016

This review highlights the recent key advances in the biology of CD4+ effector T cells, antigen-presenting cells, Th17 and T regulatory cells, as well as immediate effector cells, such as mast cells, basophils and eosinophils, which are critically contributing to the better understanding of the pathophysiology of allergic diseases and are helping to improve their diagnosis and therapy. Some of the key advances with a direct impact on allergic asthma research and treatment are summarized.
Dual Effect of Catecholamines and Corticosterone Crosstalk on Pineal Gland Melatonin Synthesis
Authors: Fernandes Pedro A. , Tamura Eduardo K. , D'Argenio-Garcia Letícia , Muxel Sandra M. , da Silveira Cruz-Machado Sanseray , Marçola Marina , Carvalho-Sousa Cláudia E. , Cecon Erika , Ferreira Zulma S. , Markus Regina P.
Published: March 2016

Background/Aim: The nocturnal production of melatonin by the pineal gland is triggered by sympathetic activation of adrenoceptors and may be modulated by immunological signals. The effect of glucocorticoids on nocturnal melatonin synthesis is controversial; both stimulatory and inhibitory effects have been reported. During pathophysiological processes, an increased sympathetic tonus could result in different patterns of adrenoceptor activation in the pineal gland. Therefore, in this investigation, we evaluated whether the pattern of adrenergic stimulation of the pineal gland drives the direction of the glucocorticoid effect on melatonin production. Methods: The corticosterone effect on the pineal hormonal production induced by β-adrenoceptor or β+α1-adrenoceptor activation was evaluated in cultured glands. We also investigated whether the in vivo lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inhibition of melatonin is dependent on the interaction of glucocorticoids and the α1-adrenoceptor in adrenalectomized animals and on the in vivo blockade of glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) or the α1-adrenoceptor. Results: Corticosterone potentiated β-adrenoceptor-induced pineal melatonin synthesis, whilst corticosterone-dependent inhibition was observed when melatonin production was induced by β+α1-adrenoceptors agonists. The inhibitory effect of corticosterone is mediated by GR, as it was abolished in the presence of a GR antagonist. Moreover, LPS-induced reduction in melatonin nocturnal plasma content was reversed by adrenalectomy and by antagonizing GR or α1-adrenoceptors. Conclusions: The dual effect of corticosterone on pineal melatonin synthesis is determined by the activation pattern of adrenoceptors (β or β+α1) in the gland during GR activation, suggesting that increased activation of the sympathetic system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis are necessary for the control of melatonin production during defense responses.
NADPH-Diaphorase Colocalizes with GPER and Is Modulated by the GPER Agonist G1 in the Supraoptic and Paraventricular Nuclei of Ovariectomized Female Rats
Authors: Grassi Daniela , Lagunas Natalia , Pinos Helena , Panzica GianCarlo , Garcia-Segura Luis Miguel , Collado Paloma
Published: March 2016

Nitric oxide is produced in the brain by the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and carries out a wide range of functions by acting as a neurotransmitter-like molecule. Gonadal hormones are involved in the regulation of the brain nitrergic system. We have previously demonstrated that estradiol, via classical estrogen receptors (ERs), regulates NOS activity in the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei of the hypothalamus, acting through both ERα and ERβ. Magnocellular and parvocellular neurons in the SON and PVN also express the G protein-coupled ER (GPER). In this study, we have assessed whether GPER is also involved in the regulation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase in the SON and PVN. Adult female ovariectomized rats were treated with G1, a selective GPER agonist, or with G1 in combination with G15, a selective GPER antagonist. G1 treatment decreased NADPH-diaphorase expression in the SON and in all PVN subnuclei. The treatment with G1 + G15 effectively rescued the G1-dependent decrease in NADPH-diaphorase expression in both brain regions. In addition, the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, one of the kinases involved in the GPER-dependent intracellular signaling pathway and in NOS phosphorylation, was assessed in the same brain nuclei. Treatment with G1 significantly decreased the number of p-ERK 1/2-positive cells in the SON and PVN, while the treatment with G1 + G15 significantly recovered its number to control values. These findings suggest that the activation of GPER in the SON and PVN inhibits the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2, which induces a decrease in NADPH-diaphorase expression.
Increased Activity of the Immunoregulatory Enzyme Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase with Consecutive Tryptophan Depletion Predicts Death in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasia
Authors: Pschowski René , Pape Ulrich-Frank , Fusch Gerhard , Fischer Christian , Jann Henning , Baur Alexander , Arsenic Ruza , Wiedenmann Bertram , von Haehling Stephan , Pavel Marianne , Schefold Joerg C.
Published: March 2016

Background/Aims: Data from a considerable number of malignancies demonstrate that depletion of the essential amino acid tryptophan via induction of the immunoregulatory enzyme indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) serves as an important tumour escape strategy and is of prognostic importance. Here we investigate the predictive value of the activity of IDO as well as levels of tryptophan and respective downstream catabolites in a large cohort of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN). Methods: 142 consecutive Caucasian patients (62 male, aged 60.3 ± 11.9 years) with histologically confirmed NEN were systematically analysed in a retrospective blinded end point analysis. Patients were followed up for a mean period of about 3.9 ± 1.9 years. Clinical outcome, levels of established biomarkers, and tryptophan degradation markers (assessed using tandem mass spectrometry) including estimated IDO activity were recorded. Cox proportional hazards regression models were performed for the assessment of prognostic power. Results: We found that baseline tryptophan levels were significantly lower and IDO activity was significantly increased in non-survivors. The risk for death inclined stepwise and was highest in patients in the upper tertile of IDO activity. Cox proportional regression models identified IDO activity as an independent predictor of death. Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis, we observed that baseline activity of the immunoregulatory enzyme IDO was significantly increased in non-survivors. IDO activity was identified as an independent predictor of death in this cohort of NEN patients. Whether IDO activity or tryptophan depletion serves to guide future therapeutic interventions in NEN remains to be established.
Oral anticoagulants in coronary heart disease (Section IV) Position paper of the ESC Working Group on Thrombosis – Task Force on Anticoagulants in Heart Disease
Authors: Husted Steen , Wallentin Lars , Andreotti Felicita , Arnesen Harald , Bachmann Fedor , Baigent Colin , Collet Jean-Philippe , Halvorsen Sigrun , Huber Kurt , Jespersen Jørgen , Kristensen Steen Dalby , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Morais João , Rasmussen Lars Hvilsted , Ricci Fabrizio , Sibbing Dirk , Siegbahn Agneta , Storey Robert F. , Berg Jurrien ten , Verheugt Freek W. A. , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Caterina Raffaele De
Published: March 2016

Until recently, vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) were the only available oral anticoagulants evaluated for long-term treatment of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), particularly after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Despite efficacy in this setting, VKAs are rarely used because they are cumbersome to administer. Instead, the more readily manageable antiplatelet agents are the mainstay of prevention in ACS patients. This situation has the potential to change with the introduction of non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs), which are easier to administer than VKAs because they can be given in fixed doses without routine coagulation monitoring. The NOACs include dabigatran, which inhibits thrombin, and apixaban, rivaroxaban and edoxaban, which inhibit factor Xa. Apixaban and rivaroxaban were evaluated in phase III trials for prevention of recurrent ischaemia in ACS patients, most of whom were also receiving dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel. Although at the doses tested rivaroxaban was effective and apixaban was not, both agents increased major bleeding. The role for the NOACs in ACS management, although promising, is therefore complicated, because it is uncertain how they compare with newer antiplatelet agents, such as prasugrel, ticagrelor or vorapaxar, and because their safety in combination with these other drugs is unknown. Ongoing studies are also now evaluating the use of NOACs in non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients, where their role is established, with coexistent ACS or coronary stenting. Focusing on CHD, we review the results of clinical trials with the NOACs and provide a perspective on their future incorporation into clinical practice.

Note: The review process for this paper was fully handled by Christian Weber, Editor in Chief.
Dizer ou não dizer: a língua russa através da tradução brasileira
Authors: Gurevich Dmitri
Published: March 2016

O artigo aqui apresentado tem por objetivo discutir aspectos semânticos característicos e marcantes da língua russa e que estão diretamente associados a elementos sintáticos e morfológicos. Estes aspectos semânticos serão comentados a partir de algumas relações entre a língua russa e a língua portuguesa e de exemplos presentes na prática de traduções literárias do russo para o português.
Intercambio epistolar de León Tolstoi con América Latina
Authors: Pérez Blas Nabel
Published: March 2016

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Iúri Lotman: entre biografia e obra
Authors: Américo Ekaterina Vólkova
Published: March 2016

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo contextualizar a obra do estudioso da cultura e literatura, crítico e filósofo russo Iúri Lótman, iniciando pela sua formação na Universidade de Leningrado e concluindo por sua atividade como professor de literatura russa na Universidade de Tártu e criador da semiótica da cultura.
O duelo nas obras de Turguêniev e Flaubert.
Authors: Antoniasse Samuel Junqueira
Published: March 2016

O duelo de armas foi um elemento constitutivo da obra de muitos escritores russos e franceses, refletindo sua importância na história cultural dos dois países. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar de que modo Ivan Turguêniev e Gustave Flaubert utilizaram desse tema em suas respectivas obras Pais e filhos e A educação sentimental. Pretendemos demonstrar que ambos os escritores, através da representação do duelo, procuraram caracterizar a própria realidade de sua época.
Encontros com o diabo.
Authors: Marks Maria Cecilia
Published: March 2016

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar comparativamente, a partir de descrições de situações e personagens, a representação do demônio nos romances Os Irmãos Karamázov, de Fiódor Dostoiévski, e Doutor Fausto, de Thomas Mann. O aporte teórico utilizado inclui conceitos desenvolvidos por Mikhail Bakhtin, tais como os de carnavalização na literatura e de cronotopos.
The international turn in Intellectual History
Authors: Armitage David
Published: March 2016

Historiadores de todos os campos recentemente têm se movimentado na direção de estudos que são descritos variadamente como internacional, transnacional, comparativo e global. Seus esforços não têm sido idênticos em alcance, em matéria ou em motivação, e nem existe algum consenso sobre como as abordagens não nacionais da história deveriam ser diferenciadas entre si. A semelhança familiar que liga essas abordagens é o desejo de ir acima ou além das histórias dos Estados definidos pelas nações e das nações delimitadas por Estados. Tomados em conjunto, esses projetos abrangem a “international turn” na escrita da história. Nesse caso, a melhor maneira de proceder é retornar às raízes da história intelectual, no período anterior ao que a historiografia fora adotada como a serva dos Estados nacionais.
Thematic, conceptual and iconic metamorphosis: the construction of a morphological history epistemological method
Authors: Ramos Maurício De Carvalho
Published: March 2016

Proponho a construção de um método epistemológico histórico sob uma perspectiva morfológica. Isso envolve a elaboração de um processo genético racional de conceitualização no qual problemas, temas e conceitos se organizam como expressões históricas crescentemente mais objetivas e determinadas. Tais expressões devem se articular gerando um contínuo de metamorfoses de um conceito ou núcleo conceitual capaz de conferir inteligibilidade a unidades da cultura científica sem restrições de amplitude espacial, temporal e conceitual. A ligação dos componentes morfológico e histórico que proponho se baseia nos resultados obtidos e no método utilizado por Carlo Ginzburg em Mitos, emblemas e sinais, especialmente no ensaio O alto e o baixo: o tema do conhecimento proibido nos séculos XVI e XVII. Após apresentar uma caracterização dos componentes mínimos do método epistemológico histórico, passarei a incorporar-lhe elementos da morfologia histórica de Ginzburg por meio de um diálogo em que procuro perceber como o autor procedeu metodicamente e conceitualmente em sua investigação. Por fim, através do estudo preliminar de um emblema alquímico em que Hermes é a figura central, farei um experimento morfológico de aplicação do referido procedimento ao âmbito da cultura científica da química.
The Role of Norman Cousins and Track II Diplomacy in the Breakthrough to the 1963 Limited Test Ban Treaty
Authors: Pietrobon Allen
Published: March 2016

Recent scholarship has begun to shift our understanding of Cold War diplomacy, highlighting unofficial tracks and the role of public pressure groups. This article reinterprets the existing evidence and brings new documents and secret White House recordings to bear in order to explore the important but previously overlooked role that Norman Cousins, long-time editor of The Saturday Review of Literature, played in helping to move the 1963 Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty forward. In 1962–1963, Cousins twice served as John F. Kennedy's emissary to Nikita Khrushchev in the hopes of unblocking the stalled process. Although Cousins played only a small part in the larger effort, he intervened at a pivotal crossroads. His direct access to both Khrushchev and Kennedy allowed him to assuage Khrushchev's intransigence and inject fresh thinking into Kennedy's approach, ultimately cumulating in the U.S. president's now famous American University speech, which is regarded as the catalyst leading to the treaty's success.
The Czechoslovak Factor in Western Alliance Building, 1945–1948
Authors: Svik Peter
Published: March 2016

This article assesses the role of the Czechoslovak coup d’état in February 1948 in the establishment of the Brussels Pact a month later and formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in April 1949. The article places these developments in the larger context of post-1945 national security policymaking in several countries, weighing the impact of the Czechoslovak coup on relations among seven countries on national security issues at the outset of the Cold War: Czechoslovakia, France, the United Kingdom, the three Benelux countries, and the United States. The article shows that the only proper way to evaluate the effect of the Communist takeover in Czechoslovakia on the formation of the Western alliance is by looking at the considerations present in each country and seeing how they interacted with one another. The Czechoslovak factor varied in its magnitude from country to country.
Radical Jewish Study of the Masoretic Text during the Enlightenment Period: Joshua Heschel Schorr, Abraham Krochmal, and Elimelech Bezredḳi
Authors: Viezel Eran
Published: March 2016

During the Enlightenment period, Jewish scholars began addressing the issue of textual criticism. Few of these took a radical approach to this question, the most prominent being Joshua Heschel Schorr, Abraham Krochmal, and Elimelech Bezredḳi, whose writings are replete with thousands of textual emendations. This article seeks to examine this fascinating but neglected chapter in the history of the textual criticism of the Hebrew Bible. It discusses the work of these three scholars, analysing their outlook, principles, and methodology and adducing cultural, intellectual, and personality factors as contributing to their special status as a group within a broader phenomenon.
Description of a new fossil diatom genus, Cribrionella gen. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from Quaternary sediments of Lake Ohrid
Authors: JOVANOVSKA ELENA , CVETKOSKA ALEKSANDRA , TOFILOVSKA SLAVICA , OGNJANOVA-RUMENOVA NADJA , LEVKOV ZLATKO
Published: March 2016

A new diatom genus, Cribrionella gen. nov., is described from Quaternary sediments of Lake Ohrid. Cribrionella comprises distinct morphological features, such as: i) presence of submarginal alveoli followed by regularly or irregularly arranged areolae, ii) cribra on external areolar openings, iii) absence of silicate layers on internal areolar openings, but presence of thick and inwardly raised circumferential silica trabeculae, iv) rimoportulae positioned on costae, and v) absence of central fultoportulae. Detailed light and scanning electron microscope analyses were undertaken and used for comparison to morphologically related genera. The typus generis Cribrionella ohridana is compared to species from its morphologically closest genus Cyclotella sensu stricto (e.g., C. atomus, C. delicatula, C. bifacialis). Cribrionella ohridana has not been reported from the extant diatom flora of Lake Ohrid, nor in the nearby Lake Prespa. The discovery of a new genus in Lake Ohrid confirms again the importance of the lake, not only in light of species richness and endemicity, but also in evolutionary history of the family Stephanodiscaceae.
Ice Nucleating Particle Measurements at 241 K during Winter Months at 3580 m MSL in the Swiss Alps
Authors: Boose Yvonne , Kanji Zamin A. , Kohn Monika , Sierau Berko , Zipori Assaf , Crawford Ian , Lloyd Gary , Bukowiecki Nicolas , Herrmann Erik , Kupiszewski Piotr , Steinbacher Martin , Lohmann Ulrike
Published: March 2016

Ice nucleating particle (INP) concentrations were measured at the High Altitude Research Station Jungfraujoch, Switzerland, 3580 m above mean sea level during the winter months of 2012, 2013, and 2014 with the Portable Ice Nucleation Chamber (PINC). During the measurement periods, the research station was mostly located in the free troposphere, and particle concentrations were low. At temperature T = 241 K, INP concentrations in the deposition regime [relative humidity with respect to water (RHw) = 93%] were, on average, below 1.09 per standard liter of air (stdL−1; normalized to 1013 hPa and 273 K) and 4.7 ± 8.3 stdL−1 in the condensation regime (RHw = 103%) in winter 2014. The deployment of a particle concentrator upstream of PINC decreased the limit of detection (LOD) by a factor of 3 compared to earlier measurements. The authors discuss a potential bias of INP measurements toward higher concentrations if data below the LOD are disregarded and thus recommend reporting subLOD data in future publications. Saharan dust and more local, basaltic dust mixed with marine aerosol were found to constitute the dominant INP type. Bioaerosols were not observed to play a role in ice nucleation during winter because of their low concentration during this period. The INP concentrations at Jungfraujoch are low in comparison to other studies of INP at this temperature. This represents the first study addressing interannual variations of INP concentrations during winter at one location.
ERA-20C: An Atmospheric Reanalysis of the Twentieth Century
Authors: Poli Paul , Hersbach Hans , Dee Dick P. , Berrisford Paul , Simmons Adrian J. , Vitart Frédéric , Laloyaux Patrick , Tan David G. H. , Peubey Carole , Thépaut Jean-Noël , Trémolet Yannick , Hólm Elías V. , Bonavita Massimo , Isaksen Lars , Fisher Michael
Published: March 2016

The ECMWF twentieth century reanalysis (ERA-20C; 1900–2010) assimilates surface pressure and marine wind observations. The reanalysis is single-member, and the background errors are spatiotemporally varying, derived from an ensemble. The atmospheric general circulation model uses the same configuration as the control member of the ERA-20CM ensemble, forced by observationally based analyses of sea surface temperature, sea ice cover, atmospheric composition changes, and solar forcing. The resulting climate trend estimations resemble ERA-20CM for temperature and the water cycle. The ERA-20C water cycle features stable precipitation minus evaporation global averages and no spurious jumps or trends. The assimilation of observations adds realism on synoptic time scales as compared to ERA-20CM in regions that are sufficiently well observed. Comparing to nighttime ship observations, ERA-20C air temperatures are 1 K colder. Generally, the synoptic quality of the product and the agreement in terms of climate indices with other products improve with the availability of observations. The MJO mean amplitude in ERA-20C is larger than in 20CR version 2c throughout the century, and in agreement with other reanalyses such as JRA-55. A novelty in ERA-20C is the availability of observation feedback information. As shown, this information can help assess the product’s quality on selected time scales and regions.
Calibration and Validation of HY-2 Altimeter Wave Height
Authors: Liu Qingxiang , Babanin Alexander V. , Guan Changlong , Zieger Stefan , Sun Jian , Jia Yongjun
Published: March 2016

Hai Yang-2 (HY-2) satellite altimeter measurements of significant wave height () are analyzed over the period from 1 October 2011 to 6 December 2014. They are calibrated and validated against in situ buoys and other concurrently operating altimeters: Jason-2, CryoSat-2, and Satellite with Argos and ALtiKa (SARAL). In general, the HY-2 altimeter measurements agree well with buoy measurements, with a bias of −0.22 m and a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.30 m. When the reduced major axis (RMA) regression procedure was applied to the entire period, the RMSE was reduced by 33% to 0.2 m. A further comparison with other satellite altimeters, however, revealed two additional features of HY-2 estimates over this period. First, a noticeable mismatch is present between HY-2 and the other satellite altimeters for high seas ( > 6 m). Second, a jump increase in HY-2 values was detected starting in April 2013, which was associated with the switch to backup status of the HY-2 sensors and the subsequent update of its data processing software. Although reported by previous studies, these two deficiencies had not been accounted for in calibrations. Therefore, the HY-2 wave height records are now subdivided into two phases (time periods pre- and post-April 2013) and a two-branched calibration is proposed for each phase. These revised calibrations, validated throughout the range of significant wave heights of 1–9 m, are expected to improve the practical applicability of HY-2 measurements significantly.
Comparison of Terrain-Following and Cut-Cell Grids Using a Nonhydrostatic Model
Authors: Shaw James , Weller Hilary
Published: March 2016

Terrain-following coordinates are widely used in operational models but the cut-cell method has been proposed as an alternative that can more accurately represent atmospheric dynamics over steep orography. Because the type of grid is usually chosen during model implementation, it becomes necessary to use different models to compare the accuracy of different grids. In contrast, here a C-grid finite-volume model enables a like-for-like comparison of terrain-following and cut-cell grids. A series of standard two-dimensional tests using idealized terrain are performed: tracer advection in a prescribed horizontal velocity field, a test starting from resting initial conditions, and orographically induced gravity waves described by nonhydrostatic dynamics. In addition, three new tests are formulated: a more challenging resting atmosphere case, and two new advection tests having a velocity field that is everywhere tangential to the terrain-following coordinate surfaces. These new tests present a challenge on cut-cell grids. The results of the advection tests demonstrate that accuracy depends primarily upon alignment of the flow with the grid rather than grid orthogonality. A resting atmosphere is well maintained on all grids. In the gravity waves test, results on all grids are in good agreement with existing results from the literature, although terrain-following velocity fields lead to errors on cut-cell grids. Because of semi-implicit time stepping and an upwind-biased, explicit advection scheme, there are no time step restrictions associated with small cut cells. In contradiction to other studies, no significant advantages of cut cells or smoothed coordinates are found.
A-Train-Based Case Study of Stratiform–Convective Transition within a Warm Conveyor Belt
Authors: Crespo Juan A. , Posselt Derek J.
Published: March 2016

Clouds are both produced by and interact with the mesoscale and synoptic-scale structure of extratropical cyclones (ETCs) in ways that are still not well understood. Cloud-scale radiative and latent heating modifies the thermal environment, leading to a response in the dynamics that can in turn feed back on cloud distribution and microphysical properties. Key to the structure of ETCs is the warm conveyor belt (WCB); the poleward-ascending airstream that produces the bulk of the clouds and precipitation. This paper examines a long-lived WCB that persisted over the western North Atlantic Ocean in nearly the same location for several days. During this time, the storm was sampled multiple times by NASA’s A-Train satellite constellation, and a clear transition from stratiform to convective clouds was observed. Examination of coincident temperature and water vapor data reveals destabilization of the thermodynamic profile after the cyclone reached maturity. CloudSat radar reflectivity from two sequential overpasses of the warm front depicts a change from stratiform to convective cloud structure, and high-frequency microwave data reveal an increase in the amount of ice hydrometeors. The presence of convection may serve to strengthen the warm frontal trough while slowing the movement of the primary low pressure center. The stratiform–convective transition cannot be detected from passive measurements of cloud-top pressure. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of multivariate satellite observations for examining the outcome of dynamic processes in ETCs, and highlight the need for more rapid temporal profiling in future remote sensing observing systems.
LES of Laminar Flow in the PBL: A Potential Problem for Convective Storm Simulations
Authors: Markowski Paul M. , Bryan George H.
Published: March 2016

In idealized simulations of convective storms, which are almost always run as large-eddy simulations (LES), the planetary boundary layers (PBLs) are typically laminar (i.e., they lack turbulent eddies). When compared with turbulent simulations, theory, or simulations with PBL schemes, the typically laminar LES used in the severe-storms community produce unrealistic near-surface vertical wind profiles containing excessive vertical wind shear when the lower boundary condition is nonfree slip. Such simulations are potentially problematic given the recent interest within the severe storms community in the influence of friction on vorticity generation within tornadic storms. Simulations run as LES that include surface friction but lack well-resolved turbulent eddies thus probably overestimate friction’s effects on storms.
Bayesian Updating of Track-Forecast Uncertainty for Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Kang Nam-Young , Lim Myeong-Soon , Elsner James B. , Shin Dong-Hyun
Published: March 2016

The accuracy of track forecasts for tropical cyclones (TCs) is well studied, but less attention has been paid to the representation of track-forecast uncertainty. Here, Bayesian updating is employed on the radius of the 70% probability circle using 72-h operational forecasts with comparisons made to the classical approach based on the empirical cumulative density (ECD). Despite an intuitive and efficient way of treating track errors, the ECD approach is statistically less informative than Bayesian updating. Built on a solid statistical foundation, Bayesian updating is shown to be a useful technique that can serve as a substitute for the classical approach in representing operational TC track-forecast uncertainty.
China’s New Urbanisation Plan 2014–20
Authors: Griffiths Martin , Schiavone Michael
Published: March 2016

Since 1978, China has emerged from being a predominantly agricultural economy to become the world’s largest economic power. Over the same period, the proportion of its population living in cities has more than doubled, from one fifth of the population in 1978 to more than half the population. Today, one tenth of the world’s population lives in Chinese cities. Over the past few years, there has been a growing concern over the sustainability of China’s economic development, which confronts a host of challenges, both external and internal. In light of those challenges, it has been suggested by many commentators that, among other policy changes, China will have to shift from its dependence on exports to a greater focus on domestic consumption. In this article we suggest that what has been dubbed the ‘new urbanisation’ by Chinese authorities is a useful lens through which to assess both the opportunities and challenges facing China as it navigates a path to more sustainable economic growth over the next few decades. It also provides a counterbalance to those commentators who focus solely on China’s growing military power as evidence of a rising China compared to the United States.
Beyond EU navel-gazing: Taking stock of EU-centrism in the analysis of EU foreign policy
Authors: Keuleers Floor , Fonck Daan , Keukeleire Stephan
Published: March 2016

Whilst concerns about the EU-centric character of EU foreign policy analysis have become more frequent in recent years, a systematic toolbox for diagnosing and remedying this problem is still lacking. This article’s contribution is twofold. First, it proposes a new typology of three approaches to foreign policy analysis, offering conceptual body and nuance to the debate on EU-centrism. The typology can be used for scrutinising existing analyses, as well as for shaping new research projects. Second, this typology is applied in a meta-analysis of post-Lisbon EU foreign policy scholarship: a built-for-purpose dataset of 451 articles was analysed, covering all work on EU foreign policy published in seven key journals for the period 2010–2014, was analysed. It was found that academic work on EU foreign policy wass indeed rife with EU-centric research questions, and, moreover, that this is the case irrespective of either the policy area under study or the focus of the journal.
The European Union, Russia and the Eastern region: The analytics of government for sustainable cohabitation
Authors: Korosteleva Elena A
Published: March 2016

This article applies the Foucauldian premise of governmentality and the analytics of government framework to demonstrate how exclusive modalities of power – of the European Union (EU) and Russia – and their competing rationalities relate, intersect and become, counter-intuitively, inextricable in their exercise of governance over the eastern neighbourhood. This particular approach focuses on power as a process to gauge the prospects for compatibility and cohabitation between the EU and Russia. Using original primary evidence, this article contends that cohabitation between these two exclusive power modalities is possible and even inevitable, if they were to legitimise their influence over the contested eastern region. It also exposes a fundamental flaw in the existing power systems, as demonstrated so vividly in the case of Ukraine – that is, a neglect for the essential value of freedom in fostering subjection to one’s authority, and the role of ‘ the other’ in shaping the EU–Russian power relations in the contested region.
Effect of electrophoretic deposition of carbon nanotubes on the tensile behaviors of carbon fiber tow
Authors: Xiao Shanshan , Mei Hui , Bai Qianglai , Han Daoyang , Cheng Laifei
Published: March 2016

The effect of carbon nanotubes introduced by electrophoretic deposition on the tensile behavior of carbon fiber tow was investigated. As-received and heat-treated carbon fiber tows that deposited with carbon nanotubes and their counterparts were tested under monotonous tensile loading. Morphology and presence state of carbon nanotubes on the surface of carbon fiber tows were observed for determining the role of carbon nanotubes. Results showed that tensile properties of carbon fiber tow were not damaged by the electrophoretic deposition process. Due to the uniformly distributed carbon nanotubes network on the surface of carbon fiber tow, the fracture of filaments were obviously constrained by carbon nanotubes instead of instantaneous separation. What’s more, carbon nanotubes exhibited a stronger confining ability for heat-treated carbon fiber tow and improved their tensile properties significantly.
Nanocomposite polyacrylonitrile filaments with electrostatic dissipative and antibacterial properties
Authors: Kizildag Nuray , Ucar Nuray
Published: March 2016

In this study, silver nitrate was added to polyacrylonitrile filament structure and chemical reduction was applied to composite filaments in order to develop multifunctional polyacrylonitrile filaments with electrostatic dissipative and antibacterial properties. Composite filaments of polyacrylonitrile and silver nitrate were characterized and evaluated in terms of morphology, chemical structure, tensile properties, crystallinity, conductivity, thermal properties, silver ion release behaviour and antibacterial activity. Additionally, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy was used to confirm the formation of nanoparticles and the variation in the concentration of the nanoparticles with the application of the chemical reduction process. Scanning electron microscope images and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy results confirmed the formation of nanoparticles in the filament structure. Breaking strength and breaking elongation increased at silver nitrate content of 1%. Composite filaments displayed improved thermal stability and their conductivities were in the semiconductive range. Atomic absorption spectroscopy confirmed that necessary amounts of silver release for antibacterial activity occurred, while the antibacterial activity analysis showed that the composite filaments have excellent antibacterial activity. The results obtained were promising and showed that the composite filaments could be used in electrostatic dissipative and antibacterial applications.
Craniofacial and Dental Defects in the Col1a1Jrt/+ Mouse Model of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Eimar H. , Tamimi F. , Retrouvey J.-M. , Rauch F. , Aubin J.E. , McKee M.D.
Published: March 2016

Certain mutations in the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes produce clinical symptoms of both osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) that include abnormal craniofacial growth, dental malocclusion, and dentinogenesis imperfecta. A mouse model ( Col1a1Jrt/+) was recently developed that had a skeletal phenotype and other features consistent with moderate-to-severe OI and also with EDS. The craniofacial phenotype of 4- and 20-wk-old Col1a1Jrt/+ mice and wild-type littermates was assessed by micro–computed tomography (µCT) and morphometry. Teeth and the periodontal ligament compartment were analyzed by µCT, light microscopy/histomorphometry, and electron microscopy. Over time, at 20 wk, Col1a1Jrt/+ mice developed smaller heads, a shortened anterior cranial base, class III occlusion, and a mandibular side shift with shorter morphology in the masticatory region (maxilla and mandible). Col1a1Jrt/+ mice also had changes in the periodontal compartment and abnormalities in the dentin matrix and mineralization. These findings validate Col1a1Jrt/+ mice as a model for OI and EDS in humans.