bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
China's Growth Slowdown and Prospects for Becoming a High-Income Developed Economy
Authors: Lu Ding
Published: February 2017

After decades of hyper growth, China's economy has slowed significantly in recent years, causing widespread anxiety both within and outside the country. Although economists have not reached a consensus about China's growth potential, it is undeniable that the country has switched gears toward a “new normal” of moderate growth amidst ongoing structural change. To assess China's growth performance and prospects, this study modifies Masahiko Aoki's analytical framework of a unified growth theory into a multi-sector model and applies it to identify the sources of China's per capita income growth in recent decades. The analysis confirms Aoki's early observation that China entered the so-called “Kuznets phase” of development in the 1980s, which then became overlapped by the H-phase, in which human capital–based growth is characterized by high labor productivity growth. This study provides evidence that China's labor productivity growth has been predominantly driven by fixed capital formation. It also reveals that the Kuznets effect (with its labor reallocation effect) has now passed its peak and is fading away. The most alarming finding is that net total factor productivity (TFP) growth in the latest period has slowed to a near halt. This trend is particularly worrisome given that China has exhausted its past demographic dividend and its industrial structure has evolved to the end of industrialization stage. Meanwhile, demographic projections clearly indicate that China has entered what Aoki defined as the development phase of “post demographic transition.” Whether China can reverse the downward trend of TFP growth will determine how soon it can achieve the goal of becoming a high-income developed economy.
The Concept of the “New Soviet Man” and Its Short History
Authors: Soboleva Maja
Published: February 2017

The concept of the New Soviet Man remains a topic of on-going scholarly interest for a number of reasons: it reflects a vital part of Russian history, it remains associated with positive and negative connotations that still need to be explored, and it functions as a crossroads for different scholarly perspectives. It remains a topic of interest also because there are still a number of unexplored questions about the concept from the perspective of the history of ideas and philosophy. This article focuses on the reconstruction of the ethical concept of a New Soviet Man over time. It argues that there were three periods in the history of this concept: The first period – between the 1900s and 1930s – can be called the period of theoretical reflection on the nature of a New Man. The second period – from the 1930s to the 1950s – can be characterized as the period of the development of norms of Soviet morality. The third period – since the 1960s – is marked by the transition of ethical thought from the ideology propagating socialist morality to moral theory and Marxist scientific ethics. This article argues that the process of forming a new type of man was not a continuous and unilineal process of change throughout the entire period of socialism. On the contrary, this dramatic process can be successfully analyzed with the help of the ethical concept of the New Soviet Man.
Large Sample Properties of the Adaptive Gaussian Mixture Filter
Authors: Stordal Andreas S. , Karlsen Hans A.
Published: February 2017

In high-dimensional dynamic systems, standard Monte Carlo techniques that asymptotically reproduce the posterior distribution are computationally too expensive. Alternative sampling strategies are usually applied and among these the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is perhaps the most popular. However, the EnKF suffers from severe bias if the model under consideration is far from linear. Another class of sequential Monte Carlo methods is kernel-based Gaussian mixture filters, which reduce the bias but maintain the robustness of the EnKF. Although many hybrid methods have been introduced in recent years, not many have been analyzed theoretically. Here it is shown that the recently proposed adaptive Gaussian mixture filter can be formulated in a rigorous Bayesian framework and that the algorithm can be generalized to a broader class of interpolated kernel filters. Two parameters—the bandwidth of the kernel and a weight interpolation factor—determine the filter performance. The new formulation of the filter includes particle filters, EnKF, and kernel-based Gaussian mixture filters as special cases. Techniques from particle filter literature are used to calculate the asymptotic bias of the filter as a function of the parameters and to derive a central limit theorem. The asymptotic theory is then used to determine the parameters as a function of the sample size in a robust way such that the error norm vanishes asymptotically, whereas the normalized error is sample independent and bounded. The parameter choice is tested on the Lorenz 63 model, where it is shown that the error is smaller or equal to the EnKF and the optimal particle filter for a varying sample size.
Assessing Continuous Operator Workload With a Hybrid Scaffolded Neuroergonomic Modeling Approach
Authors: Borghetti Brett J. , Giametta Joseph J. , Rusnock Christina F.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

We aimed to predict operator workload from neurological data using statistical learning methods to fit neurological-to-state-assessment models.

Background:

Adaptive systems require real-time mental workload assessment to perform dynamic task allocations or operator augmentation as workload issues arise. Neuroergonomic measures have great potential for informing adaptive systems, and we combine these measures with models of task demand as well as information about critical events and performance to clarify the inherent ambiguity of interpretation.

Method:

We use machine learning algorithms on electroencephalogram (EEG) input to infer operator workload based upon Improved Performance Research Integration Tool workload model estimates.

Results:

Cross-participant models predict workload of other participants, statistically distinguishing between 62% of the workload changes. Machine learning models trained from Monte Carlo resampled workload profiles can be used in place of deterministic workload profiles for cross-participant modeling without incurring a significant decrease in machine learning model performance, suggesting that stochastic models can be used when limited training data are available.

Conclusion:

We employed a novel temporary scaffold of simulation-generated workload profile truth data during the model-fitting process. A continuous workload profile serves as the target to train our statistical machine learning models. Once trained, the workload profile scaffolding is removed and the trained model is used directly on neurophysiological data in future operator state assessments.

Application:

These modeling techniques demonstrate how to use neuroergonomic methods to develop operator state assessments, which can be employed in adaptive systems.
Prefrontal Hemodynamics of Physical Activity and Environmental Complexity During Cognitive Work
Authors: McKendrick Ryan , Mehta Ranjana , Ayaz Hasan , Scheldrup Melissa , Parasuraman Raja
Published: February 2017

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess performance and cognitive states during cognitive work in the presence of physical work and in natural settings.

Background:

Authors of previous studies have examined the interaction between cognitive and physical work, finding performance decrements in working memory. Neuroimaging has revealed increases and decreases in prefrontal oxygenated hemoglobin during the interaction of cognitive and physical work. The effect of environment on cognitive-physical dual tasking has not been previously considered.

Method:

Thirteen participants were monitored with wireless functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) as they performed an auditory 1-back task while sitting, walking indoors, and walking outdoors.

Results:

Relative to sitting and walking indoors, auditory working memory performance declined when participants were walking outdoors. Sitting during the auditory 1-back task increased oxygenated hemoglobin and decreased deoxygenated hemoglobin in bilateral prefrontal cortex. Walking reduced the total hemoglobin available to bilateral prefrontal cortex. An increase in environmental complexity reduced oxygenated hemoglobin and increased deoxygenated hemoglobin in bilateral prefrontal cortex.

Conclusion:

Wireless fNIRS is capable of monitoring cognitive states in naturalistic environments. Selective attention and physical work compete with executive processing. During executive processing loading of selective attention and physical work results in deactivation of bilateral prefrontal cortex and degraded working memory performance, indicating that physical work and concomitant selective attention may supersede executive processing in the distribution of mental resources.

Application:

This research informs decision-making procedures in work where working memory, physical activity, and attention interact. Where working memory is paramount, precautions should be taken to eliminate competition from physical work and selective attention.
The Polygraph in the English Courts
Authors: Elton Jacqueline
Published: February 2017

This paper considers the possibility of polygraph evidence being utilised in criminal trials. There is evidence that a properly conducted polygraph is between 70 and 90 per cent accurate. Evidence from the field of human psychology is that, in the absence of corroborating information, human beings do little better than chance in determining truth from lies. I argue that it is illogical to ignore the possibility of using the more reliable form of evidence in favour of the less reliable, and that there is little English case law to prevent the use of polygraph evidence, but that there is relevant case law from other jurisdictions which could support its use. With the introduction of the polygraph as a license condition under the Offender Management Act 2007, the English judicial system sees the first, very limited use of this technique, could this be the start of a creeping development?
Towards a Sociology of Equivocal Connections
Authors: Bonelli Cristóbal , Vicherat Mattar Daniela
Published: February 2017

This article contributes to the need for imagining forms of sociological thinking and doing beyond the univocity of disciplinary knowledge. In order to do so, we demonstrate how connections between different ‘sensory worlds’ involve equivocal understandings about what the ‘social’ entails. We begin by considering current anthropological reflections on the equivocal character of social relations as well as the equivocal ways in which western sociology has conceptualized the ‘social’. In order to visualize how ‘equivocal connections’ between different sensory worlds emerge, we build on Mapuche indigenous understandings about how different practices open up different sensory worlds. Through the examination of one of the hunger strikes that has taken place in the conflict between Mapuche people and the Chilean state, we show how such equivocal connections entail ontological, rather than epistemological, differences. Both as ethical and epistemological imperative, these differences must be actively demonstrated in order to reinvigorate the sociological imagination.
How do local unions strategize against multinational corporations’ restructuring threats? Some insights from France
Authors: Dupuis Mathieu
Published: February 2017

This article explores local trade union strategies in the context of multinational corporations’ (MNCs) restructuring in French auto suppliers. From a theoretical standpoint, this study proposes a multidimensional analytic framework confronting three different, yet complementary, approaches: (1) the relative power of unions and how this power manifests itself in the social relations between actors; (2) the national institutions and opportunity structures that constrain actor choices; and (3) the contingencies relating to the structures of multinational firms and their production sites. From a methodological standpoint, the article compares two different local cases (France-1, France-2) that have experienced restructuring threats from their parent MNCs. The core data of this research are based on semi-structured interviews with elected union representatives from both sites, as well as expert witnesses at various levels within the sector. This article argues that unions’ strategies are best understood as a function of power resources and capabilities, social relationships at different levels, and types of MNC governance. In particular, the article argues that local trade unions should develop ‘cognitive’ power, a strategic capability, in order to impact decision-making in multinational corporations.
Outcomes of Upper Airway Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Multicenter German Postmarket Study
Authors: Heiser Clemens , Maurer Joachim T. , Hofauer Benedikt , Sommer J. Ulrich , Seitz Annemarie , Steffen Armin
Published: February 2017

Objective

Selective stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve is a new surgical therapy for obstructive sleep apnea, with proven efficacy in well‐designed clinical trials. The aim of the study is to obtain additional safety and efficacy data on the use of selective upper airway stimulation during daily clinical routine.

Study Design

Prospective single‐arm study.

Setting

Three tertiary hospitals in Germany (Munich, Mannheim, Lübeck).

Subjects and Methods

A multicenter prospective single‐arm study under a common implant and follow‐up protocol took place in 3 German centers (Mannheim, Munich, Lübeck). Every patient who received an implant of selective upper airway stimulation was included in this trial (apnea‐hypopnea index ≥15/h and ≤65/h and body mass index <35 kg/m2). Before and 6 months after surgery, a 2‐night home sleep test was performed. Data regarding the safety and efficacy were collected.

Results

From July 2014 through October 2015, 60 patients were included. Every subject reported improvement in sleep and daytime symptoms. The average usage time of the system was 42.9 ± 11.9 h/wk. The median apnea‐hypopnea index was significantly reduced at 6 months from 28.6/h to 8.3/h. No patient required surgical revision of the implanted system.

Conclusion

Selective upper airway stimulation is a safe and effective therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea and represents a powerful option for its surgical treatment.
From Evidence to Clinical Practice: Positive Effect of Implementing a Protein‐Enriched Hospital Menu in Conjunction With Individualized Dietary Counseling
Authors: Munk Tina , Bruun Nina , Nielsen Michael A. , Thomsen Thordis
Published: February 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate if a protein‐enriched menu in conjunction with individualized dietary counseling would increase energy and protein intake in hospitalized patients at nutrition risk compared with providing the protein‐enriched menu as a stand‐alone intervention. Method: Data from medical and surgical hospitalized patients were prospectively collected and compared with a historical intervention group (HIG). Primary outcome was the number of patients achieving >75% of energy and protein requirements. Secondary outcomes included mean energy and protein intake (adjusted for body weight [ABW]), readmission rate, and the number of patients with a baseline intake <50% of energy and protein requirement, who increased to ≥50%. Results: In the intervention group (IG), 92% vs 76% in the HIG reached >75% of energy requirements (P = .04); 90% in the IG vs 66% in the HIG reached >75% of protein requirements (p = <0.01). The IG had a significantly higher mean intake of energy and protein compared with the HIG: ABW, 31 kcal kg−1 vs 25 kcal kg−1 (P < .01) and 1.2 g protein kg−1 vs 0.9 g protein kg−1 (P < .001). More than 85% of the patients with a baseline <50% of the EP requirement achieved ≥75% of the energy and protein requirement. No difference between readmission rates was found. Conclusion: Providing a protein‐enriched menu in conjunction with individualized dietary counseling significantly increased protein and energy intake in hospitalized patients at nutrition risk.
Noninvasive Ventilation in Patients With Hematologic Malignancy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Bell Conor , Campbell Vagia , DeBacker Julian , Tamberg Erik , Lee Christie , Mehta Sangeeta
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is commonly used as first-line therapy for immunocompromised patients with acute respiratory failure. However, it may not be appropriate for all patients, as failure of NIV and delayed endotracheal intubation (ETI) may increase mortality. We report our center’s experience and outcomes for patients with active hematologic malignancy (HM) treated with NIV.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive patients with HM who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Mount Sinai Hospital for acute respiratory failure between January 1, 2010, and May 31, 2015, and were initially treated with NIV. We compared the characteristics of patients who were successfully treated with NIV and avoided intubation and those who failed NIV.

Results:

Seventy-nine patients (mean age 56 ± 14 years, mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score 27 ± 5) with HM were treated with NIV for acute respiratory failure. The etiology of respiratory failure was multifactorial in 31 (39%) patients, with features of pneumonia in 61 (77%) patients, severe sepsis or septic shock in 33 (42%) patients, and pulmonary edema in 24 (30%) patients. The majority of patients were admitted with acute leukemia (n = 60, 76%), 8 (10%) with lymphoma, and 11 (14%) with chronic leukemia, multiple myeloma, or myelodysplastic syndrome. Of the 79 patients treated with NIV, 44 (56%) failed NIV and required ETI, 7 (9%) had a do-not-intubate (DNI) order and died, and 28 (35%) avoided ETI. Compared with patients who avoided ETI, those who failed NIV or had a DNI order and died were more likely to have acute leukemia (84% vs 61%; P = .02) and at baseline had higher Paco2 (39 vs 30; P = .038), higher fraction of inspired oxygen (Fio2) requirements (0.6 vs 0.4; P = .002), and more vasopressor use (31% vs 11%; P = .059). The ICU mortality was 42%; 3-month mortality was 57% overall and was significantly lower in the NIV success patients compared with the NIV failure group (21% vs 74%; P < .001).

Conclusion:

Two-thirds of patients with HM and respiratory failure failed NIV and required ETI, and had high subsequent mortality. Patients who failed NIV had higher Paco2, higher Fio2, and a trend toward more vasopressor use.
‘Speaking about the unspeakable’: Clinical psychologists views on the role of the profession regarding ‘forced care’ of older adults without capacity
Authors: Watts Sarah J. , Jackman Louisa , Howarth Alan
Published: February 2017

‘Forced care’ describes the provision of personal care to an individual who does not have the capacity to make a decision about that care and resists receiving that care. This study explored the views of clinical psychologists on supporting staff involved with forced care and considered the following question: Do clinical psychologists feel that they have a role in guiding decisions around forced care, and if so, what? Interview data were gathered from five clinical psychologists experienced in the field of Older Adult psychology in the UK. This study concludes that the environment in which psychologists work influences the psychologist’s beliefs about whether psychologists should be involved with making recommendations about forced care, and how they should be involved.
A Proposed Algebra Assessment for Use in a Problem-Analysis Framework
Authors: Walick Christopher M. , Burns Matthew K.
Published: February 2017

Algebra is critical to high school graduation and college success, but student achievement in algebra frequently falls significantly below expected proficiency levels. While existing research emphasizes the importance of quality algebra instruction, there is little research about how to conduct problem analysis for struggling secondary students. This article proposes an assessment model designed to analyze algebra skills for struggling students to assess basic skills in mathematics, algebraic thinking, and algebra content knowledge. Results of the study indicated sufficiently reliable data. Exploratory factor analysis of the data also found three separate factors (basic calculation skills, mathematics application, and algebra content knowledge) that underlie the data. Implications for the classroom, future research, and study limitations are discussed.
Continuous Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Study Using Pigs for the Prevention of Mechanical Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury in Esophageal Surgery
Authors: Deguchi Tomoaki , Ikeda Yoshifumi , Niimi Masanori , Fukushima Ryoji , Kitajima Masaki
Published: February 2017

Purposes. During esophageal surgery, clamping injury and injury associated with the use of energy devices are common mechanisms underlying intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) damage. Recently, intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) has been applied to prevent RLN injury. This study was aimed at investigating the changes in the EMG signals associated with clamping injury of the RLN caused by picking up of the nerve with tweezers in domestic pigs. Methods. Six domestic pigs (12 RLNs) underwent continuous IONM (CIONM) by our original automated periodic vagal nerve stimulation method. Results. Our system can be used safely and accurately. The signals showed a decrease of the amplitude when the RLN was picked up and closed slowly by the double-action Maryland with jaw covers. If the clamp was released before the signal amplitude decreased to 50% of the baseline, the signal showed gradual recovery to the baseline in 12 ± 3 minutes. Conclusion. Although there were limitations in our study using domestic pig, including the small sample size, our results are expected to contribute to a decrease in the incidence of RLN damage during esophageal surgery.
Is Cultural Eclecticism Axiological and a New Mark of Distinction? Cultural Diversification and Social Differentiation of Tastes in France
Authors: Glevarec Hervé , Pinet Michel
Published: February 2017

Eclecticism as formulated initially by Richard Peterson includes the two ideas that cultural eclecticism is axiological (a mix of elite and non-elite genres) and represents a ‘standard for good taste’ (a new form of distinction). Research on eclecticism progressively developed an approach of differentiation with mixed-taste profiles complicating the relationship between types of omnivorousness and social value of cultural genres. This article discusses the two dimensions of explanations for French cultural eclecticism in the 2000s: value of taste and distinction. Based on a hierarchical classification of French culturally eclectic individuals in 2008, this article shows that a model of diversification of tastes is required to describe the contemporary diversity of portfolios of tastes and the absence of a dominant eclectic figure. It argues for a new model called ‘tablature’ which is a model of genre diversification combined with the social differentiation of tastes. The model results from the cultural field’s historical development into genres and changes in the judgement of taste. The classification suggests that we have passed from a ‘distinction’ argument to a ‘differentiation’ argument.
The immunomodulatory potential of Leonurus cardiaca extract in relation to endothelial cells and platelets
Authors: Sadowska Beata , Micota Bartłomiej , Różalski Marek , Redzynia Małgorzata , Różalski Marcin
Published: February 2017

The immunomodulatory activity of Leonurus cardiaca L. polyphenol-rich extract (LCE) was tested in vitro on HUVECs to explore its potential therapeutic usefulness in the treatment of inflammatory lesions. The phytochemical composition of LCE, its antioxidant and cytotoxic activity, and the influence of LCE on NO and platelet-activating factor (PAF) secretion by HUVECs and platelet aggregation were all assessed. Total polyphenol contents in LCE reached 137.0 ± 0.8 mg/g, with hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives as the predominant phenolic compounds. LCE expressed antioxidant capacity, which was, however, 13- to 16-fold lower than the antioxidant activity of ascorbic acid. The plant extract was not cytotoxic up to a concentration 4500 µg/ml and did not exhibit proapoptotic activity. LCE significantly increased NO production in HUVECs in a concentration-dependent manner and led to the inhibition of PAF secretion induced by staphylococcal peptidoglycan. The extract used at the concentration of 100 µg/ml significantly reduced platelet aggregation in the presence of arachidonic acid. We provide in vitro data demonstrating the immunomodulatory potential of LCE, which may be beneficial in preventing the development of difficult-to-treat inflammatory lesions within chronically infected tissues.
Rap Lyrics as Evidence
Authors: Stoia Nicholas , Adams Kyle , Drakulich Kevin
Published: February 2017

Recent scholarship has shed light on the troubling use of rap lyrics in criminal trials. Prosecutors have interpreted defendants’ rap lyrics as accurate descriptions of past behavior or in some cases as real threats of violence. There are at least two problems with this practice: One concerns the interpretation of art in a legalistic context and the second involves the targeting of rap over other genres and the role of racism therein. The goal of the present work is translational, to demonstrate the relevance of music scholarship on this topic to criminologists and legal experts. We highlight the usage of lyric formulas, stock lyrical topics understood by musicians and their audiences, many of which make sense only in the context of a given genre. The popularity of particular lyric formulas at particular times appears connected to contemporaneous social conditions. In African American music, these formulas have a long history, from blues, through rock and roll, to contemporary rap music. The work illustrates this through textual analyses of lyrics identifying common formulas and connecting them to relevant social factors, in order to demonstrate that fictionalized accounts of violence form the stock-in-trade of rap and should not be interpreted literally.
Ethics Review and the Minority Ethnographer
Authors: Tapia Mike , Martinez Rubén O.
Published: February 2017

This article examines some of the implications of the current human subjects regulatory landscape for conducting “high-risk” ethnographic research. We synthesize a classical Weberian framework with recent sociological literature on bureaucratic hybridization to theorize on this aspect of the academy. This perspective frames an autoethnographic case study on administrative dynamics at a large, public university to illustrate how certain racialized biases can hinder a research agenda. Broader issues in the current institutional review board (IRB) reform process contextualize this study on the potential for the invalidation of certain forms of criminological ethnography by pretenured minority scholars. To the extent that such experiences are common among untenured minority ethnographers, this article addresses racialized bias at the institutional, ideological, and individual levels. These forces can stratify even the most egalitarian of institutions along race–ethnic lines, impacting the production and legitimation of knowledge. We make recommendations to young academics engaging in high-risk research with human subjects and call for a more systematic investigation of researchers’ experiences with the IRB.
Is Common Core “Working”? And Where Does Common Core Research Go From Here?
Authors: Polikoff Morgan S.
Published: February 2017

Five years into the Common Core initiative, researchers and the general public are interested to know whether and how the standards are “working.” In this introduction to the special topic, I discuss the state of the literature on these questions and offer suggestions for what I view as the most important work moving forward.
An Environmental Scan of Health and Social System Navigation Services in an Urban Canadian Community
Authors: Carter Nancy , Valaitis Ruta , Feather Janice , Cleghorn Laura , Lam Annie
Published: February 2017

Systems navigation services provided by a designated provider or team have the potential to address health and social disparities. We conducted an environmental scan of navigation activities in a large urban Canadian community to identify and describe: service providers who engage in systems navigation; the clients who require systems navigation support and the issues they face; activities involved; and barriers and facilitators in providing systems navigation support to clients. Using an online survey and convenience sampling, we recruited individuals who self-identified as community navigators or practiced systems navigation activities as part of their role. The majority of respondents ( n = 145) were social workers, social services workers, or nurses. Clients of navigators struggled with mental health or addictions issues, disabilities, chronic diseases, and history of trauma or abuse. The most frequently reported activities of navigators were building professional relationships, managing paperwork, and communicating with relevant agencies or organizations. Barriers to navigation were time available in the work day, difficulty partnering due to bureaucratic structures, differing philosophies and ways of working, and a lack of central information repository in the community. Facilitators were a client-centered organization, the availability of multiple community resources in the region, and organizational support. Participants struggled with client waitlists, system issues such as lack of resources and interagency collaboration, and role clarity.
PD-1 modulates regulatory T-cell homeostasis during low-dose interleukin-2 therapy
Authors: Asano Takeru , Meguri Yusuke , Yoshioka Takanori , Kishi Yuriko , Iwamoto Miki , Nakamura Makoto , Sando Yasuhisa , Yagita Hideo , Koreth John , Kim Haesook T. , Alyea Edwin P. , Armand Philippe , Cutler Corey S. , Ho Vincent T. , Antin Joseph H. , Soiffer Robert J. , Maeda Yoshinobu , Tanimoto Mitsune , Ritz Jerome , Matsuoka Ken-ichi
Published: February 2017

Key Points

IL-2 induces expression of PD-1 on Tregs, and PD-1 blockade promotes Treg differentiation and apoptosis. PD-1 regulates IL-2–induced Treg proliferation and prolongs Treg survival in murine models and in patients receiving low-dose IL-2 therapy.
Neutrophils acquire the capacity for antigen presentation to memory CD4+ T cells in vitro and ex vivo
Authors: Vono Maria , Lin Ang , Norrby-Teglund Anna , Koup Richard A. , Liang Frank , Loré Karin
Published: February 2017

Key Points

Neutrophils can present cognate antigens to antigen-specific memory CD4+ T cells. MHC-II and costimulatory molecules are induced on neutrophils in the presence of antigen and antigen-specific memory CD4+ T cells.
An enhanced security framework for home appliances in smart home
Authors: Kang Won Min , Moon Seo Yeon , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: February 2017

Since the end of 2000, smartphones have explosively spread and have made people’s lives plentiful. With the start of smartphones, new smart devices, including tablet PCs, smart TVs, smart refrigerators, and smart air conditioners, have emerged, expanding their areas from individuals to business and home. These days, smart home service has drawn a lot of attention as a human-centric service. It is the environment where home appliances and other smart devices are connected to internet in order for user service and experience. The current smart home service is simply based on wireless home network to execute the function of connected home. The service has no smart home security so that it is possible for users to suffer a financial loss caused by information leakage or home appliance hacking. Therefore, to apply smart home service to surroundings, it is necessary to take into account security of smart devices. In this paper, we propose an enhanced security framework for smart devices in a smart home environment. The security framework provides the integrity system using the self-signing and access control techniques for preventing the security threats such as data modification, leakage and code fabrication.
Protectors of the Future, Not Protestors of the Past: Indigenous Pacific Activism and Mauna a Wākea
Authors: Goodyear-Ka‘ōpua Noelani
Published: February 2017

This essay explores ways Native Pacific activists enact Indigenous futurities and broaden the conditions of possibility for unmaking settler colonial relations. When settler colonial relations are built on the enclosure of land as property that can then be alienated from Indigenous peoples, as well as demarcated to privilege certain racialized, classed, and gendered groups of settlers, then such unmaking requires different ways of relating to land. I highlight two instances of “blockades”—the Pacific Climate Warriors at Newcastle Harbor in Australia and the protectors on Mauna a Wākea in Hawai‘i. While colonial discourses frame such direct actions as obstructions on a march toward a narrowly imagined and singular “future,” I argue that this activism works to open space for multiple futures in which Indigenous epistemologies and practices renew intergenerational connections and in which the possessive, jurisdictional borders of private property can be reimagined as zones of compassionate engagement. This kind of futures-creation is not only in the interest of Indigenous people. Indigenous resistance against industrial projects that destroy or pollute our territories concerns the health of multiple communities of humans and nonhumans.
Δ40p53α suppresses tumor cell proliferation and induces cellular senescence in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Ota Akinobu , Nakao Haruhisa , Sawada Yumi , Karnan Sivasundaram , Wahiduzzaman Md , Inoue Tadahisa , Kobayashi Yuji , Yamamoto Takaya , Ishii Norimitsu , Ohashi Tomohiko , Nakade Yukiomi , Sato Ken , Itoh Kiyoaki , Konishi Hiroyuki , Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Yoneda Masashi
Published: February 2017

Splice variants of certain genes impact on genetic biodiversity in mammals. The tumor suppressor TP53 gene (encoding p53) plays an important role in the regulation of tumorigenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Δ40p53α is a naturally occurring p53 isoform that lacks the N-terminal transactivation domain, yet little is known about the role of Δ40p53α in the development of HCC. Here, we first report on the role of Δ40p53α in HCC cell lines. In the TP53+/Δ40 cell clones, clonogenic activity and cell survival dramatically decreased, whereas the percentage of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal)-positive cells and p21 (also known as WAF1, CIP1 and CDKN1A) expression significantly increased. These observations were clearly attenuated in the TP53+/Δ40 cell clones after Δ40p53α knockdown. In addition, exogenous Δ40p53 expression significantly suppressed cell growth in HCC cells with wild-type TP53, and in those that were mutant or null for TP53. Notably, Δ40p53α-induced tumor suppressor activity was markedly attenuated in cells expressing the hot-spot mutant Δ40p53α-R175H, which lacks the transcription factor activity of p53. Moreover, Δ40p53α expression was associated with increased full-length p53 protein expression. These findings enhance the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of HCC and show that Δ40p53α acts as an important tumor suppressor in HCC cells.
Φυσικογεωγραφική, ιζηματολογική μελέτη και ανίχνευ-ση των μαγνητικών ιδιοτήτων των ιζημάτων του ‘Μικρού’ σπηλαίου των Επταμύλων Σερρών
Authors: Πεχλιβανίδου Σ. , Αηδονά E. , Βουβαλίδης Κ. , Πέννος Χ. , Αλμπανάκης Κ.
Published: February 2017

In the area of Eptamili Village, located at the foothills of the southern-eastern part of Mount Menoikio (Serres Prefecture, Northern Greece) two underground karst cavities were revealed during the works of marble exploitation, named as ‘Mikro’ and ‘Megalo’ Cave of Eptamilon. At the entrance of the ‘Mikro’ Cave there is a naturally deposited sequence of clastic sediments alternating with chemical deposits with a thickness of ~2m, lying uncomfortably on the bedrock marbles. In order to investigate the depositional processes and conditions and to understand the palaeoenvironmental changes during the cave evolution, grain size analysis and magnetic measurements were conducted on sediment samples from the sedimentary sequence. Grain size analysis showed the presence of fine sandy beds alternating with silty and clayey layers. This structure correlates with the magnetic signature of the sediments and especially the magnetic susceptibility (xlf) and the frequency depended magnetic susceptibility (xfd), conducting conclusions concerning the palaeoclimatic conditions and the velocity of the flow during the time of deposition of the sedimentary sequence. This study suggest the use of environmental magnetism as an independent methodology in palaeoenvironmental studies.
Remote sensing for underwater archaeology: case stud-ies from Greece and Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Papatheodorou G. , Geraga M. , Chalari A. , Christodoulou D. , Iatrou M. , Fakiris E. , Kordella St. , Prevenios M. , Ferentinos G.
Published: February 2017

Modern underwater remote sensing technology introduces many advantages that extend the range of conventional diving work providing the means to survey in a detailed and systematic fashion large seafloor area. There are two general approaches regarding the application of these techniques in underwater archaeology; they are being increasingly used to identify, locate and map (i) ancient and historical shipwrecks lying on the seafloor or partly buried in it and (ii) the coastal palaeogeogra-phy and thus submerged sites of archaeological interest (submerged ancient cities, settlements, ports and man-made structures). The underwater remote sensing techniques most commonly applied to underwater archaeology employ: (i) single and multi-beam echosounders (ii) side scan sonar (acousting imaging), (iii) laser line scan (optical imaging) (iv) subbottom profiler, (v) marine magne-tometer and (vi) undersea vehicles. The objectives of this paper are twofold: (i) to present the results of remote sensing surveys that carried out at sites of archaeological and historical interest, in Greece (Dokos Island, ancient harbour of Kyllene and Navarino Bay whereas a historical naval Battle took place) and in Eastern Mediterranean Sea (Alexandria Egypt and Mazotos shipwreck Cyprus), and (ii) to prove the applicability of remote sensing techniques in underwater archaeology showing that a combination of these can be a very effective tool.
Παλίμψηστα των λαϊκών, προφορικών παραμυθιών: Μορφές επιβίωσης τους στον σύγχρονο πολιτισμό της εικόνας και του γραπτού λόγου
Authors: Κανατσούλη Μένη
Published: February 2017

Δεν διατίθεται περίληψη
Κυβερνολογοτεχνία: μια πρόκληση του μέλλοντος
Authors: Δημητρούλια Τιτίκα
Published: February 2017

[Δε διατίθεται περίληψη]
Ραγκαβής και Δουμάς: μια συνομιλία σε τόνους πυρίπνους
Authors: Καλαντζοπούλου Βίκυ
Published: February 2017

Δε διατίθεται περίληψη
Η αρχαία Ελλάδα ως «εαυτότητα» στην ελληνική παιδική λογοτεχνία και ως «ετερότητα» στα εικονογραφηγήματα του Ντίσνεϋ
Authors: Μουλά Ευαγγελία
Published: February 2017

[Δε διατίθεται περίληψη]
Η απόδραση της Ωραίας Ελένης: δύο απόπειρες απελευθέρωσης στα έργα των Giraudoux και Ρίτσου
Authors: Αναστασάκη Έλενα
Published: February 2017

[Δε διατίθεται περίληψη]
Τα ημερολόγια του Γιώργου Σεφέρη και η ημερολογιακή γραφή στην Ευρώπη
Authors: Μυλωνάκη Ιωάννα
Published: February 2017

[Δε διατίθεται περίληψη]
INTEGRATED RESEARCHES OF ACOUSTICAL EXPOSURE ON GAS-DUST FLOW IN THE VORTEX-ACOUSTIC DISPERSER
Authors: Бойчук  , Boychuk Igor , Перелыгин  , Perelygin Dmitriy
Published: February 2017

The article deals with the movement of gas-dispersed flow in the chamber of vortex - acoustic dis-perser. The simulation of the acoustic impact on the course of the swirling flow. It is shown that the acoustic effect for a flow leads to its inhibition. At the same time for the flow in the boundary layer takes oscillatory. Modeling has allowed to establish the nature of the distribution of acoustic oscil-lations by using single and successive acoustic wave generators, enhances the effect of braking.
SOME CONSTRUCTION PROBLEMS OF THE CASPIAN SHELF AND OSCILLATIONS OF FIXED OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS STRUCTURES
Authors: Востров  , Vostrov Vladimir , Абсиметов  , Absimetov Vladimir , Абсиметов  , Absimetov Maksim
Published: February 2017

An analysis of the dynamic interaction between ice floes with the marine and offshore oil and gas field facilities, which are the basis of the conditions of occurrence and development of self-oscillation using a one-dimensional mathematical model of oscillations facilities. Determined by dynamic ice loads on structures and analyzed the conditions for establishing self-oscillations along with the definition of their parameters. Offers recommendations for improving the international standard ISO 19906 and SNIP RK 3.04-40-2006.
The impact of lifestyle risk factors on the rate of infection after surgery for a fracture of the ankle
Authors: Olsen L. L. , Møller A. M. , Brorson S. , Hasselager R. B. , Sort R.
Published: February 2017

Aims

Lifestyle risk factors are thought to increase the risk of infection after acute orthopaedic surgery but the evidence is scarce. We aimed to investigate whether smoking, obesity and alcohol overuse are risk factors for the development of infections after surgery for a fracture of the ankle.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent internal fixation of a fracture of the ankle between 2008 and 2013. The primary outcome was the rate of deep infection and the secondary outcome was any surgical site infection (SSI). Associations with the risk factors and possible confounding variables were analysed univariably and multivariably with backwards elimination.

Results

A total of 1043 patients were included; 64 (6.1%) had a deep infection and 146 (14.0%) had SSI. Obesity was strongly associated with both outcomes (odds ratio (OR) 2.21, p = 0.017 and OR 1.68, p = 0.032) in all analyses. Alcohol overuse was similarly associated, though significant only in unadjusted analyses. Surprisingly, smoking did not yield statistically significant associations with infections.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that obesity and possibly alcohol overuse are independent risk factors for the development of infection following surgery for a fracture of the ankle. This large study brings new evidence concerning these common risk factors; although prospective studies are needed to confirm causality. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:225–30.
Hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of a displaced intracapsular fracture in active elderly patients
Authors: Tol M. C. J. M. , van den Bekerom M. P. J. , Sierevelt I. N. , Hilverdink E. F. , Raaymakers E. L. F. B. , Goslings J. C.
Published: February 2017

Aims

Our aim was to analyse the long-term functional outcome of two forms of surgical treatment for active patients aged > 70 years with a displaced intracapsular fracture of the femoral neck. Patients were randomised to be treated with either a hemiarthroplasty or a total hip arthroplasty (THA). The outcome five years post-operatively for this cohort has previously been reported. We present the outcome at 12 years post-operatively.

Patients and Methods

Initially 252 patients with a mean age of 81.1 years (70.2 to 95.6) were included, of whom 205 (81%) were women. A total of 137 were treated with a cemented hemiarthroplasty and 115 with a cemented THA. At long-term follow-up we analysed the modified Harris Hip Score (HHS), post-operative complications and intra-operative data of the patients who were still alive.

Results

At a mean follow-up of 12 years (8.23 to 16.17, standard deviation 2.24), 50 patients (20%), 32 in the hemiarthroplasty group and 18 in the THA group, were still alive, of which 47 (94%) were women. There were no significant differences in the mean modified HHS (p = 0.85), mortality (p = 0.13), complications (p = 0.93) or rate of revision surgery (p = 1.0) between the two groups.

Conclusion

In the treatment of active elderly patients with an intracapsular fracture of the hip there is no difference in the functional outcome between hemiarthroplasty and THA treatments at 12 years post-operatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:250–4.
Las prácticas de la enseñanza en Derecho Internacional Público: búsquedas en la construcción de una estrategia reflexiva
Authors: Aguzin Laura , Beaugé Maria Fabiana , Yermanos José , Sciolla Vanina
Published: February 2017

Las prácticas de la enseñanza en Derecho Internacional Público: búsquedas en la construcción de una estrategia reflexiva
Notes from the Editors, February 2017
Authors: The Editors -
Published: February 2017

buy this issueFor those attuned to the most fashionable trends in mainstream discourse on climate change, it is clear that "resilience" is now in, and "sustainability" is out.… The concept of resilience, while adopted by some progressive thinkers and organizations, is nonetheless being rapidly incorporated into a survival-of-the-most-resilient philosophy in which poor nations, and indeed exploited and dispossessed people everywhere, are told they must simply become more "resilient" in order to survive—but in a world in which such dynamic adaptability is available mainly to the rich, who enjoy monopolies of capital, resources, and technology.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
The gap phenomenon in parabolic geometries
Authors: Kruglikov Boris , The Dennis
Published: February 2017

The infinitesimal symmetry algebra of any Cartan geometry has maximum dimension realized by the flat model, but often this dimension drops significantly when considering non-flat geometries, so a gap phenomenon arises. For general (regular, normal) parabolic geometries of type

(
G
,
P
)

${(G,P)}$

, we use Tanaka theory to derive a universal upper bound on the submaximal symmetry dimension. We use Kostant’s version of the Bott–Borel–Weil Theorem to show that this bound is in fact sharp in almost all complex and split-real cases by exhibiting (abstract) models. We explicitly compute all submaximal symmetry dimensions when G is any complex or split-real simple Lie group.
On orientation memory in high density polyethylene – carbon nanofibers composites
Authors: Chipara Mircea , Jones Brian , Chipara Dorina M. , Li Jianhua , Lozano Karen , Valloppilly Shah , Sellmyer David
Published: February 2017

An orientation memory effect in high density polyethylene (HDPE) filled with vapor grown carbon nanofibers (VGCNF) is reported. Two-dimensional X-ray (2DXR) confirmed the reorientation of HDPE crystallites upon the uniaxial stretching of HDPE and HDPE filled by VGCNFs. This anisotropy of 2DXR spectra was decreased by heating all stretched samples (loaded or not loaded by VGCNFs) from room to the melting temperature of HDPE. Upon cooling these samples to room temperature, it was noticed that only the nanocomposite retained a weak partial (uniaxial) order, while HDPE showed a completely isotropic 2DXR spectrum. It was concluded that during the stretching of nanocomposites the crystallites and VGCNFs were aligned along the uniaxial stress. Upon heating, the crystalline phase was melted, while the orientation of the VGCNFs was not significantly disturbed. The recrystallization of the polymer started preferentially from the VGCNF – polymer interphase, resulting into an anisotropic crystalline structure.