bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Equivalent Linear and Nonlinear Site Response Analysis Results and Model to Estimate Maximum Shear Strain
Authors: Carlton Brian , Tokimatsu Kohji
Published: August 2016

We compared the results of equivalent linear (ELA) and nonlinear site response analyses (NLA) and found that the differences between the values of the peak ground acceleration ( PGA), peak ground velocity ( PGV), Arias intensity ( I a), significant duration ( D5–75), and response spectrum for periods between 0.025 s and 2 s predicted by each method are non-negligible for maximum shear strain values predicted by ELA ( γ max, ELA) greater than 0.04% to 1.0%. As γ max, ELA increases, ELA in general predict smaller shear strain and D5–75 values, and larger PGA, PGV, I a, mean period, and response spectral values for periods less than 0.1 s and periods near the natural site period than NLA. To help researchers and practitioners decide when to use ELA and/or NLA, we developed a model to estimate γ max, ELA before conducting a site response analysis.
Loss-of-Function Mutations in the Human Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Predominantly Cause Intracellular Retention
Authors: Newton Claire Louise , Anderson Ross Calley , Katz Arieh Anthony , Millar Robert Peter
Published: August 2016

Mutations in G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been identified for many endocrine hormone signaling deficiencies. Inactivating mutations can impair ligand binding, receptor activation/coupling to signaling pathways, or can cause receptor misfolding and consequent impaired expression at the cell membrane. Here we examine the cell surface expression, ligand binding, and signaling of a range of mutant human luteinizing hormone receptors (LHRs) identified as causing reproductive dysfunction in human patients. The data obtained reveal how mutations in GPCRs can have diverse and severely deleterious effects on receptor function. Furthermore, it was found that impaired functionality of the majority of the mutant LHRs was due to reduced expression at the cell surface (14/20) while only two mutations caused impaired binding affinity and two impaired in signaling. An additional two mutations were found to cause no impairment of receptor function. These data demonstrate that the majority of LHR mutations lead to intracellular retention and highlight the potential for novel pharmacological chaperone therapeutics that can “rescue” expression/function of retained mutant GPCRs.
What Times Are These? Visual Art and Social Crisis in Postcolonial Jamaica
Authors: Poupeye Veerle
Published: August 2016

This essay reflects on how social unrest and violence are responded to in the mainstream visual arts of postcolonial Jamaica. The focus is on two particular moments of crisis: the social unrest and political violence during the Michael Manley administration in the 1970s and the current escalation in violent crime. Both moments have also coincided with intense cultural activity, in which the lived experience of these crises commands centre stage. This essay explores how this has resulted in visual art works that record, critique or seek to transcend the crisis at hand and how these, along with the popular visual culture and the news media, forge the visual imaginaries of these moments and the visual memories of the future. The essay also reflects on the role of art in times of social crisis and the ethical questions that surround the artistic representation of violence and trauma, especially in the market-driven context of contemporary Jamaican art.
Travels with Anthropology
Authors: Thomas Deborah A.
Published: August 2016

This article reflects upon Richard Price's newest work, Travels with Tooy. In it, the author argues that the book - on the surface, a text about the transmission of esoteric knowledge passed down from “First Time” to the present among Saramaka Maroons - is actually an investigation of the role of anthropological knowledge within Caribbean Studies. As such, Travels opens a window on the anthropological contribution to more general debates about nation-building throughout the circum-Caribbean. The author tracks anthropology's disciplinary history vis-à-vis the Caribbean in order to explore some of the roads not traveled within Travels. This is done to highlight the ways issues emerge and change across generational cohorts of researchers. The author concludes by arguing that anthropology's continued relevance to Caribbean Studies depends on rethinking some of our main areas of focus and methods of engagement.
Further Travels
Authors: Price Richard
Published: August 2016

In the course of responding to the comments of Kenneth Bilby, Aisha Khan, and Deborah Thomas on Travels with Tooy, Price raises some questions suggested by the book: What is the place of long-term ethnography of the sort represented by Travelsin Caribbeanist research? How do we best think about ways of knowing (including subject positions, relationships, disciplines) in the Caribbean? How do we best think about ways of writing Caribbean culture (literary modes, social science modes), the languages needed to express what Bilby calls the “ineffable”? To what extent and in what ways are apparently exotic or marginal peoples, such as the Saramaka Maroons of Suriname, truly part of the Caribbean world? While considering long-standing debates about African continuities vs. New World creativity, and discussing what Michel-Rolph Trouillot has called “the miracle of creolization,” the essay draws on the history of Caribbean studies to consider possible new directions.
One and Divisible: Meditations on Global Blackness
Authors: Torres-Saillant Silvio
Published: August 2016

This article offers to the consideration of readers a number of site-specific vignettes that highlight the ways in which the experience of blackness--as different from the fact of blackness--may take different forms depending on the moment, the socio-cultural setting, the history, and the existential context in which it occurs. It asks about the wisdom of promoting ideas about global blackness that do not at the same time examine the political economy that explains the globalizing of blackness nor the deleterious legacy of Western discourse that construed people of African descent as a homogeneous branch of the human famly. The article invites reflection on the need to study the black experience internationally without a preordained narrative of racial self-affirmation, warning that the expectation that blacks will articulate their racial identity everywhere in the same way may result in the misrecognition an ensuing neglect of seminal chapters of the black experience.
Developing new therapeutic approaches for rheumatoid arthritis: the continuing challenges of clinical assessments
Authors: Scott David L.
Published: August 2016

The management of rheumatoid arthritis has changed dramatically over the last three decades. Improvements in clinical assessment have been a key driver of these changes. However, in the last five years, three areas of unresolved uncertainty have dominated specialist thinking in the field. These challenges comprise identifying the optimal management target, determining how best to reach this target by using intensive treatments, and individualising management because not all patients need or respond to identical treatments. The key problem that links each of these areas is balancing different types of evidence and is most readily appreciated in relation to treatment intensity. Giving more intensive therapy improves outcomes but also increases risks and, with biologic treatments, substantially increases drug costs. Specialists and healthcare funders need to agree on how best to rationalise optimal care for patients with what is most effective and safe and what is affordable.
Multi-site tumor sampling (MSTS) improves the performance of histological detection of intratumor heterogeneity in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC)
Authors: Guarch Rosa , Cortés Jesús M. , Lawrie Charles H. , López José I.
Published: August 2016

Current standard-of-care tumor sampling protocols for CCRCC (and other cancers) are not efficient at detecting intratumoural heterogeneity (ITH). We have demonstrated in silico that an alternative protocol, multi-site tumor sampling (MSTS) based upon the divide and conquer (DAC) algorithm, can significantly increase the efficiency of ITH detection without extra costs. Now we test this protocol on routine hematoxylin-eosin (HE) sections in a series of 38 CCRCC cases. MSTS was found to outperform traditional sampling when detecting either high grade (p=0.0136) or granular/eosinophilic cells (p=0.0114). We therefore propose that MSTS should be used in routine clinical practice.
Tackling a long‐standing problem: Typification of Orthotrichum crispum, Ulota crispula and Ulota intermedia (Bryopsida: Orthotrichaceae)
Authors: Caparrós Rut , Garilleti Ricardo , Price Michelle J. , Mazimpaka Vicente , Lara Francisco
Published: August 2016

Previous taxonomic studies on the Holarctic species of Ulota, including both morphological and molecular approaches, distinguished Ulota crispa, U. crispula and U. intermedia as separate taxa worthy of recognition at the specific level, instead of belonging to a single, highly variable species (U. crispa). Available original material for these three names has been studied and in several cases these are heterogeneous, containing two or even three of these closely related species. We discuss the nomenclatural history of each species and the extant original specimens from which lectotypes for Orthotrichum crispum, Ulota crispula and U. intermedia are designated.
Lectotypification of the Linnaean name Salsola sativa (Amaranthaceae s.l.)
Authors: Iamonico Duilio
Published: August 2016

The typification of the name Salsola sativa (Amaranthaceae) is discussed. An illustration of Antoine de Jussieu's Kali Hispanicum, supinum, annuum, Sedi foliis brevibus from 1719 is designated as the lectotype.
Untangling a vine and its parasite: Host specificity of Philippine Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae)
Authors: Pelser Pieter B. , Nickrent Daniel L. , Barcelona Julie F.
Published: August 2016

Rafflesia species are endo‐holoparasites of Tetrastigma (Vitaceae) vines. Despite receiving considerable attention because of their rarity, enormous flowers, and fascinating parasitic life style, surprisingly little is known about their host specificity and host preference. This lack of information prevents a better understanding of the evolution of the host‐parasite associations and host‐focused conservation management of these threatened plants. This study is the first comprehensive analysis of host specificity and preference in Rafflesia. A total of 180 host plants of 11 out of 13 species of Philippine Rafflesia as well as non‐parasitized Tetrastigma plants from most areas where Rafflesia species have been found were included in our study. Morphological data and nuclear and plastid DNA sequence phylogenies were used to identify and distinguish Tetrastigma lineages. Our studies provide support for previous claims that Tetrastigma species are the exclusive hosts of Rafflesia. A total of eight lineages of Philippine Tetrastigma were identified of which six are hosts of Rafflesia. Most of these Tetrastigma lineages are hosts of multiple Rafflesia species. In addition, four Rafflesia species parasitize multiple Tetrastigma lineages. The finding that Tetrastigma lineages and Rafflesia species that are relatively common are involved in multiple host‐parasite associations suggests that these Rafflesia species are less host‐specific than previous studies indicated. However, because some sympatric Tetrastigma species are not among the observed host species, we tentatively conclude that Philippine Rafflesia show at least some degree of host specificity. Host phylogenies suggest that cospeciation might not have occurred in the diversification of Philippine Rafflesia and Tetrastigma.
About a New Solution to the Problem of Future Contingents
Authors: Klonowski Mateusz
Published: August 2016

Book Reviews: Marcin Tkaczyk, "Futura contingentia", Wydawnictwo KUL, Lublin (Poland), 2015, 450 pages, ISBN 978-83-8061-111-5.
Urinary catheter securement and fixation in residential care homes
Authors: Wilson Mary
Published: August 2016

Proper securement and fixation of urinary catheters remains a difficult area for care workers. In this article, Mary Wilson discusses why it is so important that nurses select the right devices for their residents, giving an overview of the products available
Correlations between hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and soluble transferrin receptor levels in children aged 6-59 months
Authors: Tri Kusumastuti Fajar Diah , Sutaryo Sutaryo , Mulatsih Sri
Published: August 2016

Background Early detection of iron deficiency is important in young children to prevent iron deficiency anemia, which may cause permanent neurocognitive development disorders. Hemoglobin level is an insensitive tool for detecting iron deficiency without anemia, while serum ferritin levels may be influenced by infection and inflammation. However, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) is a sensitive marker for detecting iron deficiency, yet not widely used in daily practice.Objective To assess for correlations between hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and soluble transferrin receptor levels in children aged 6-59 months.Methods We performed a cross-sectional study in the Yogyakarta and Bantul Districts involving 85 children aged 6-59 months who visited integrated health posts (posyandu) and who met the inclusion criteria. Subjects were chosen by cluster random sampling. Blood specimens were collected to examine hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and sTfR levels.Results Spearman’s correlation test revealed weak negative correlations between hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels, as well as between hemoglobin and sTfR levels, with coefficient correlations of r = -0.220, (P=0.043) and r = -0.317, (P=0.003), respectively. There was no correlation between serum ferritin and sTfR levels (r = -0.033; P=0.767).Conclusion Hemoglobin levels has weak negative correlations with serum ferritin and sTfR, but serum ferritin does not correlate with sTfR. [Paediatr Indones. 2014;54:122-6.]
A study on the knowledge, beliefs and practices of patients diagnosed with tuberculosis in katutura, khomas region, Windhoek
Authors: Kamenye Esther , Sumpi Ndemupavali , Van Dyk Agnes , Ashipala Daniel
Published: August 2016

Tuberculosis is a preventable and curable disease. In spite of this, it is the main cause of human suffering and death through infection. A better understanding of TB patients’ knowledge, beliefs and practices regarding tuberculosis is important for the improvement of public health education on tuberculosis. Therefore, a study was conducted to explore and describe the knowledge, beliefs and practices of patients diagnosed with TB, in order to provide helpful data for the improvement of public health education regarding tuberculosis.An explorative, descriptive, contextual, and qualitative study design was conducted, using individual in-depth interviews to gather data from 60 tuberculosis patients in Katutura of the Khomas region. A quota sampling technique by age was used to select the participants. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s method for content analysis. The results showed a significantly poor depth of knowledge among patients diagnosed with tuberculosis about the disease itself. Patients possess erroneous beliefs about modes of transmission, and they practice unhealthy lifestyles while on treatment. Ineffective health education had contributed to the poor knowledge of patients.Recommendations based on this study’s findings include: the revision of the current national guidelines for the management of tuberculosis, to include some important facts overlooked by the guidelines developers; the design of culturally-appropriate messages to be integrated with the existing beliefs and misconceptions and provided to the community in the form of leaflets.
Podręcznik tradycyjny czy e-learning? Wybór podręcznika kursowego na lektorat akademicki z języka polskiego jako obcego (na przykładzie polonistyki włoskiej)
Authors: Jakobsze Małgorzata
Published: August 2016

The primary aim of the article was a reflection on the choice of a coursebook for the Polish language course at Italian universities. The first part of this paper describes the specifics of Polish studies in Italy and focuses on conditions influencing the choice, such as: the profile of the student, type of course and the educational context. The second part presents classifications of manuals used for Polish language courses in Italy. This classifications are accompanied by a list of criteria which help to select some particular groups of manuals.The secondary aim of the article, which is presented in the last part, was to introduces an e-learning platform E-LOCAL supporting a Polish language teaching as an alternative, modern and customizable coursebook.
O przezwiskach gimnazjalistów kaliskich (analiza semantyczna)
Authors: Lewicka Marta
Published: August 2016

The article presents the semantic analysis of students’ nicknames. The onomastic material has been taken from a sample survey conducted in one of secondary school in Kalisz at a school year 2013/2014. The material basis consists of 269 personal names. The anthroponyms formed on common names are analysed in detail in the article. The main aim of the study is to observe the connections between the nicknames and the common names which motivate them. The semantic analysis and the statistical analysis of school nicknames allow to notice and reconstruct the mechanisms which affect nicknames formation as well as to observe the connections between the name and the designatum.
Językowa kreacja nieba i piekła w Tragedii o bogaczu i Łazarzu z 1643 roku
Authors: Kępka Izabela
Published: August 2016

The main goal of the article is showing the language creation of hell and heaven presented in The tragedy about the rich man and Lazarus in XVII c. Language creation of hell and heaven in this story is showing it stereotypically. Heaven is a place where God and other peaceful creatures live (also souls of people that lived well on Earth). Hell is a dark abyss, where the fire of hell (which is not shining) is the main source of pain for the condemned. A human being which got into hell will never get out. It is out of God’s forgiveness range.The image of those two places in the Tragedy serves mainly the persuasion which is closely connected with the genre of the morality. Language creation of hell and heaven in the Tragedy was written by uncomplicated linguistic means.
Nie trwam o jedzę, kiedy dobrze siedzę. O jedzeniu i żarciu w paremiologii polskiej dawnej i współczesnej
Authors: Skorupska-Raczyńska Elżbieta
Published: August 2016

The analysis of 694 proverbs selected from widely accessible collections allows their classification into semantic fields ranging from names of foods, ways of eating, the necessity and urge to eat as well as the effects of eating, to the rules of eating and conduct during meals. Most of the proverbs analysed refer to actual situations (ca. 84%); the remaining (ca. 16%) include metaphors that illustrate or codify social behaviours and their consequences. Proverbs registered in the 19th century written Polish language constitute over a half (52,4%) of the data, while those from the 20th century amount to over one fourth (26,3%). The rest (26,3%) is dated as coming from the 15th–18th century. Over 72% of the proverbs analysed are syntactically complex with regular sound instrumentation and about 28% are syntactically simple. The analysis brings out a very important need to regulate the rules of the eating process and of conduct while eating, as well as the significance of healthy nutrition.
Pudełko Srebrne do Hoſtyi bez przykrywadła. O sposobach określania przedmiotów w inwentarzach kościelnych
Authors: Żuraszek-Ryś Iwona
Published: August 2016

This article focuses on methods of specifying mobile objects in the ecclesiastical inventories. The research material comes from the manuscript entitled: The revision of the treasury of the Poznań cathedral (Revisio Thesauri Ecelesiae Cathedralis Poznaniensis), which is located in the Archives of the Archdiocese of Poznań under the inventory number DK pap IV/003. This document was drawn up on 6th July 1719 and certifies revision of the treasury of the cathedral in Poznań. The person who was preparing this document had to face the difficulty of describing objects located in the treasury by means of appropriate language. The choice of objects was not a coincidence. Descriptions were used for identification of relevant specimen and had to be as precise and comprehensive so that it was possible to identify a relevant object.The specifications of mobile items stored in the treasury have the analytic form of different length that mainly depends on a number of objects with the same functions. The more such objects were stored, the more elaborated description had to be attached that would include more differentiating factors. The Polish name of the object was an obligatory part of these syntactic and semantic language structures. The description also specifies: a kind of material the item was made of, its appearance, size, purpose for which it was used, a number of subsequent items of the same kind as well as the data concerning founders and owners of those objects.
Zapłodnienie in vitro w kontekście sakramentu pojednania i pokuty
Authors: Bryl Damian
Published: August 2016

Praktyka pozaustrojowego zapłodnienia "in vitro"rozprzestrzenia się coraz szybciej. Osoby, które uczestniczą w różny sposobów w tych procedurach nie są w stanie ocenić ich prawidałwo w konteście sakramentu pokuty i pojdenania. Jaka jest droga podczas której spowiednik powinien poczyć to osoby, jakie warunki muszą zostać spełnione, aby autentyczne pojednanie z Bogiem mogło mieć miejsce? Niniejszy artykuł jest próbą pokazania i przeanalizować kilka podstawowych kwestii odnoszących się do problemów związanych z zapłodnieniem "in vitro" w kontekście sakramentu pojednania i pokuty.
Duchowość komunii człowieka z Bogiem
Authors: Wejman Henryk
Published: August 2016

Głównym celem artykułu jest przedstawienie istoty i wartości duchowości komunii według Kardynała S. Wyszyńskiego. Widziana z perspektywy jego nauczania, istota tej duchowości polega na bezgranicznym zaufaniu człowieka w Bogu. Jego wartość rozwija się w skutecznym wpływie człowieka na jego środowisko naturalne, to znaczy w Jego miłosiernej wrażliwość na potrzeby bliźnich i szanując środowisko ich istnienia.
Relacje między lekarzem a pacjentem w świetle Karty Pracowników Służby Zdrowia
Authors: Brożek Beata
Published: August 2016

Artykuł ma na celu omówienie zagadnień etycznych, które powinny stać się podstawą dobrych relacji między lekarzem a pacjentem . Rozważania oparte są na pracach opisanych w Europejskiej Karcie Pracowników Służby Zdrowia opracowanej z inicjatywy Papieskiej Rady Duszpasterstwa Pracowników Służby Zdrowia i zatwierdzonej przez Kongregację Nauki Wiary. W artykule podjęto próbę przedstawienia postawy lekarza wobec palących problemów prenatalnym okresie życia ludzkiego, a także problemy dorosłych i osób starszych . Kwestie etyczne, takie jak nienaruszalne prawo do życia i szacunek dla ludzkiego życia, wydają się być ważne i uzasadnione w czasach komercjalizacji i szybkiego rozwoju usług medycznych, które tym samym potrzebują dalszej dogłębnej analizy.
Clinical and histo-pathological aspects of the skin tumours in the nasal region
Authors: Aftenie C. , Bordeianu I.
Published: August 2016

Nasal pyramid presents an increased frequency of skin tumours such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas. That could be explained by the increased rate of solar radiation exposure. Fear of a malign skin disease have been rising public awareness of the danger of exposure to sunlight. However, the incidence of skin cancer is continuously increasing. The probability of developing a skin tumour increases with age. Typically, concern relates to the patient on the cosmetic appearance and on the malignant potential of the lesion. Nasal defects can take place most often after oncological procedures. Knowing the most common forms of benign and malignant skin tumours is crucial for a proper evaluation and therapeutic management. Particular importance should be given to those clinical issues that may raise suspicion of a malignant lesions turn. In this study we evaluated the incidence of nasal pyramid tumours. This included also the pathological aspect of nasal skin.
Recent Progress in Search for Dark Sector Signatures
Authors: Deliyergiyev Maksym
Published: August 2016

Many difficulties are encountered when attempting to pinpoint a common origin for several observed astrophysical anomalies, and when assessing their tension with existing exclusion limits. These include systematic uncertainties affecting the operation of the detectors, our knowledge of their response, astrophysical uncertainties, and the broad range of particle couplings that can mediate interaction with a detector target. Particularly interesting astrophysical evidence has motivated a search for dark-photon, and focused our attention on a Hidden Valleys model with a GeV-scale dark sector that produces exciting signatures. Results from recent underground experiments are also considered.

There is a ‘light’ hidden sector (dark sector), present in many models of new physics beyond the Standard Model, which contains a colorful spectrum of new particles. Recently, it has been shown that this spectrum can give rise to unique signatures at colliders when the mass scale in the hidden sector is well below a TeV; as in Hidden Valleys, Stueckelberg extensions, and Unparticle models. These physics models produce unique signatures of collimated leptons at high energies. By studying these ephemeral particles we hope to trace the history of the Universe. Our present theories lead us to believe that there is something new just around the corner, which should be accessible at the energies made available by modern colliders.
Preparation and characterization of core-shell oil absorption materials stabilized by modified fumed silica
Authors: Wang Chun-yu , Bu Yu-huan , Liu Hua-jie , Guo Sheng-lai
Published: August 2016

The core-shell oil absorption material (OAM) with fumed silica shell was achieved from Pickering polymerization. The modified fumed silica wall could well stabilize both Pickering emulsion and Pickering polymerization. The particle size of encapsulated OAMs decreased with the increasing concentration of fumed silica and remained unchanged when the concentration was more than 1 wt.%. This fumed silica shell had little effect on the oil absorption rate of OAM. The importance was that the shell reversed the surface property and improved the alkali resistance of OAM. We believe that our core-shell OAMs could reach the self-healing ability of the oil well cement.
Excellent outcomes after radiotherapy alone for malignant spinal cord compression from myeloma
Authors: Rades Dirk , Conde-Moreno Antonio J. , Cacicedo Jon , Segedin Barbara , Rudat Volker , Schild Steven E.
Published: August 2016

Background

Uncertainty exists whether patients with spinal cord compression (SCC) from a highly radiosensitive tumor require decompressive spinal surgery in addition to radiotherapy (RT). This study addressed the question by evaluating patients receiving RT alone for SCC from myeloma.

Patients and methods

Data of 238 patients were retrospectively analyzed for response to RT and local control of SCC. In addition, the effect of RT on motor function (improvement, no further progression, deterioration) was evaluated. Overall response was defined as improvement or no further progression of motor dysfunction. Prior to RT, patients were presented to a neurosurgeon for evaluation whether upfront decompressive surgery was indicated (e.g. vertebral fracture or unstable spine).

Results

In the entire cohort, the overall response rate was 97% (53% improvement plus 44% no further progression). Following RT, 88% of the patients were able to walk. Of the 69 non-ambulatory patients 44 patients (64%) regained the ability to walk. Local control rates at 1, 2 and 3 years were 93%, 82% and 82%, respectively. A trend towards better local control was observed for patients who were ambulatory before starting RT (p = 0.08) and those with a more favorable performance status (p = 0.07).

Conclusions

RT alone provided excellent response rates, functional outcomes and local control in patients with SCC from myeloma. These results should be confirmed in a prospective randomized trial.
“We Have the Prophets”: Inspiration and the Prophets in Athenagoras of Athens
Authors: Bingham D. Jeffrey
Published: August 2016

In contrast to those who argue simply that Athenagoras’s discussion of the prophets and inspiration is Hellenic, sourced in Philo as well as in Plato and Plutarch, this paper claims that there are other sources to consider that are equally informative. Athenagoras manifests alliance and dependence upon the Septuagint, other Jewish sources, the New Testament and second-century Christian sources, especially Ignatius and Justin. Athenagoras is a Christian philosopher. We would expect to see such a broad-based platform of resources for his theological construction. A simple classification of Greek, Hellenistic or Philonic for his notion of the inspired prophets is incomplete, unreflective of his own ingenuity, and fails to adequately account for his Judaeo-Christian heritage. It also minimizes the elegance of this early Christian attempt to theologize about the Jewish prophets in a gentile world. In Athenagoras we have an explanation of the prophets and inspiration that (1) clearly positions them preeminently as rational, doctrinal Christian authorities above the poets, philosophers, and human opinions; (2) constructs his community’s theology with an artistic flair that selectively and critically weaves together both pagan and Judaeo-Christian sources; so that (3) he might win a hearing from both his imperial and ecclesiastical audience.
Controlled Frequency Breathing Reduces Inspiratory Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Burtch Alex R. , Ogle Ben T. , Sims Patrick A. , Harms Craig A. , Symons T. Brock , Folz Rodney J. , Zavorsky Gerald S.
Published: August 2016

Burtch, AR, Ogle, BT, Sims, PA, Harms, CA, Symons, TB, Folz, RJ, and Zavorsky, GS. Controlled frequency breathing reduces inspiratory muscle fatigue. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1273–1281, 2017—Controlled frequency breathing (CFB) is a common swim training modality involving holding one's breath for approximately 7–10 strokes before taking another breath. We sought to examine the effects of CFB training on reducing respiratory muscle fatigue. Competitive college swimmers were randomly divided into either the CFB group that breathed every 7–10 strokes or a control group that breathed every 3–4 strokes. Twenty swimmers completed the study. The training intervention included 5–6 weeks (16 sessions) of 12 × 50-m repetitions with breathing 8–10 breaths per 50-m (control group) or 2–3 breaths per 50-m (CFB group). Inspiratory muscle fatigue was defined as the decrease in maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) between rest and 46 seconds after a 200-yard freestyle swimming race (115 seconds [SD 7]). Aerobic capacity, pulmonary diffusing capacity, and running economy were also measured pre- and posttraining. Pooled results demonstrated a 12% decrease in MIP at 46 seconds post-race (−15 [SD 14] cm H2O, effect size = −0.48, p < 0.01). After 4 weeks of training, only the CFB group prevented a decline in MIP values before to 46 seconds after race (−2 [13] cm H2O, p > 0.05). However, swimming performance, aerobic capacity, pulmonary diffusing capacity, and running economy did not improve (p > 0.05) posttraining in either group. In conclusion, CFB training appears to prevent inspiratory muscle fatigue; yet, no difference was found in performance outcomes.
Adult Conditional Knockout of PGC-1α Leads to Loss of Dopamine Neurons
Authors: Jiang Haisong , Kang Sung-Ung , Zhang Shuran , Karuppagounder Senthilkumar , Xu Jinchong , Lee Yong-Kyu , Kang Bong-Gu , Lee Yunjong , Zhang Jianmin , Pletnikova Olga , Troncoso Juan C. , Pirooznia Shelia , Andrabi Shaida A. , Dawson Valina L. , Dawson Ted M.
Published: August 2016

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Recent studies have implicated a role for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator protein-1α (PGC-1α) in PD and in animal or cellular models of PD. The role of PGC-1α in the function and survival of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) dopamine neurons is not clear. Here we find that there are four different PGC-1α isoforms expressed in SH-SY5Y cells, and these four isoforms are expressed across subregions of mouse brain. Adult conditional PGC-1α knock-out mice show a significant loss of dopaminergic neurons that is accompanied by a reduction of dopamine in the striatum. In human PD postmortem tissue from the SNpc, there is a reduction of PGC-1α isoforms and mitochondria markers. Our findings suggest that all four isoforms of PGC-1α are required for the proper expression of mitochondrial proteins in SNpc DA neurons and that PGC-1α is essential for SNpc DA neuronal survival, possibly through the maintenance of mitochondrial function.
Proposition 47
Authors: Arrona Marisa
Published: August 2016

Between 1981 and 2011, the amount of money California spent on prisons increased by more than 1,500 percent, the state’s investment in crime prevention programs like drug treatment and mental health services was sharply curtailed, and California’s recidivism rate spiked to nearly 70 percent. It’s increasingly clear that our criminal justice system, predicated on an outdated “lock ‘em up and throw away the key” mentality has failed. But the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014 is helping move the state into a new era of criminal justice, with an emphasis on prevention and second chances instead of punishment.
Elevated utero/placental GR/NR3C1 is not required for the induction of parturition in the dog
Authors: Gram Aykut , Trachsel Alexandra , Boos Alois , Kowalewski Mariusz P
Published: August 2016

The endocrine mechanisms that lead to initiation of parturition in dogs are still not fully understood. The prepartum luteolysis is associated with increased prostaglandin (PG) F2α secretion; however, there is no pregnancy- or parturition-related increase in estrogens. Moreover, unlike in other mammalian species, in the dog, increased peripartum levels of cortisol measured sporadically in maternal peripheral blood are not mandatory for normal parturition. Nevertheless, auto/paracrine effects of cortisol at the placental feto-maternal level cannot be excluded. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the expression and localization of glucocorticoid receptor (GR/NR3C1) in canine utero/placental (Ut/Pl) units and uterine interplacental sites at selected time points during pregnancy (pre-implantation, post-implantation and mid-gestation), and at normal and antigestagen-induced parturition. The Ut/Pl expression of GR/NR3C1 did not change significantly from pre-implantation until mid-gestation; however, it was strongly induced during the prepartum luteolysis. Within the interplacental samples, expression of GR/NR3C1-mRNA was greater post-implantation than pre-implantation and did not change afterward, i.e. toward mid-gestation. Compartmentalization studies within the Ut/Pl units, involving placenta, endometrium and myometrium separately, performed at the prepartum luteolysis revealed the highest GR/NR3C1-mRNA levels in placenta compared with endometrium and myometrium. Interestingly, in antigestagen-treated mid-pregnancy dogs, Ut/Pl and interplacental GR/NR3C1-mRNA expression remained unaffected. At the cellular level, placental GR/NR3C1 was clearly detectable in placenta fetalis, i.e. in trophoblast cells. In conclusion, increased expression of GR/NR3C1 during normal parturition, but not following antigestagen-treatment, suggest that it is not required for initiating the signaling cascade of PG synthesis leading to the induction of parturition in the dog.
Activin A-induced increase in LOX activity in human granulosa–lutein cells is mediated by CTGF
Authors: Chang Hsun-Ming , Cheng Jung-Chien , Liu Yingtao , Klausen Christian , Xu Congjian , Leung Peter C K
Published: August 2016

Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is the key enzyme involved in the crosslinking of collagen and elastin that is essential for the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM). LOX-mediated ECM remodeling plays a critical role in follicle development, oocyte maturation and corpus luteum formation. To date, the regulation of LOX in human ovary has never been elucidated. Activin A and its functional receptors are highly expressed in ovarian follicles from an early developmental stage. They locally regulate follicle progression. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of activin A on the expression of LOX and its extracellular enzyme activity in primary and immortalized human granulosa–lutein cells obtained from patients undergoing anin vitrofertilization procedure. We demonstrated that activin A significantly upregulated the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and LOX via an activin/TGF-β type I receptor mediated-signaling pathway. Using a target depletion small interfering RNA knockdown approach, we further confirmed that the upregulation of CTGF expression resulted in an activin-A-induced increases in LOX expression and activity. These findings may provide insight into the mechanisms by which intrafollicular growth factors regulate the expression of LOX for ECM formation and tissue remodeling in the human ovary.
Hospitalization for Influenza A Versus B
Authors: Tran Dat , Vaudry Wendy , Moore Dorothy , Bettinger Julie A. , Halperin Scott A. , Scheifele David W. , Jadvji Taj , Lee Liza , Mersereau Teresa ,   for the members of the Canadian Immunization Monitoring Program Active
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND:

The extent to which influenza A and B infection differs remains uncertain.

METHODS:

Using active surveillance data from the Canadian Immunization Monitoring Program Active at 12 pediatric hospitals, we compared clinical characteristics and outcomes of children ≤16 years admitted with laboratory-confirmed influenza B or seasonal influenza A. We also examined factors associated with ICU admission in children hospitalized with influenza B.

RESULTS:

Over 8 nonpandemic influenza seasons (2004-2013), we identified 1510 influenza B and 2645 influenza A cases; median ages were 3.9 and 2.0 years, respectively (P < .0001). Compared with influenza A patients, influenza B patients were more likely to have a vaccine-indicated condition (odds ratio [OR] = 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14–1.47). Symptoms more often associated with influenza B were headache, abdominal pain, and myalgia (P < .0001 for all symptoms after adjustment for age and health status). The proportion of deaths attributable to influenza was significantly greater for influenza B (1.1%) than influenza A (0.4%); adjusted for age and health status, OR was 2.65 (95% CI = 1.18–5.94). A similar adjusted OR was obtained for all-cause mortality (OR = 2.95; 95% CI = 1.34–6.49). Among healthy children with influenza B, age ≥10 years (relative to <6 months) was associated with the greatest odds of ICU admission (OR = 5.79; 95% CI = 1.91–17.57).

CONCLUSIONS:

Mortality associated with pediatric influenza B infection was greater than that of influenza A. Among healthy children hosptialized with influenza B, those 10 years and older had a significant risk of ICU admission.
Homegardens in a micro-regional scale: contributions to agrobiodiversity conservation in an urban-rural context
Authors: Peroni Nivaldo , Hanazaki Natalia , Begossi Alpina , Zuchiwschi Elaine , Lacerda Victoria Duarte , Miranda Tatiana Mota
Published: August 2016

Homegardens are conservation units for native plants and reservoirs of exotic species from different origins. We analysed the species composition and diversity of edible plants on three groups of homegardens in a gradient from urban to rural situations, but under the same historical and cultural contexts, and verified how these homegardens can favour the conservation of plants from different origins. The size of each homegarden was measured and complete in- ventories were carried out to assess the total edible plant diversity. Plants were collected for taxonomic identification or identified in the field, and were classified for their biogeographic origin. We compared species richness and diversity among the groups of homegardens (urban, periurban and rural), and analysed their floristic similarity. A total of 109 homegardens were studied (39 urban, 60 periurban, and 10 rural). We registered a total of 101 species, 45 botanical families and 41 varieties, with 71% of the species occurring in less than 10% of the homegardens. Rural homegardens were more diverse than periurban ones, and periurban and urban homegardens are equally diverse. We found a low but significant correlation between floristic similarity and geographic distance to the urban area. Most plants were introduced, with different origins, especially from South America Lowlands. A significant amount of plants were ex- changed between relatives and neighbours. These homegardens can be considered agrobiodiversity reservoirs in a micro-regional scale, being important areas for in situ and on farm conservation and including native and exotic plants.
Biological functions of selenium and its potential influence on Parkinson's disease
Authors: ELLWANGER JOEL H. , FRANKE SILVIA I.R. , BORDIN DIANA L. , PRÁ DANIEL , HENRIQUES JOÃO A.P.
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT Parkinson's disease is characterized by the death of dopaminergic neurons, mainly in the substantia nigra, and causes serious locomotor dysfunctions. It is likely that the oxidative damage to cellular biomolecules is among the leading causes of neurodegeneration that occurs in the disease. Selenium is an essential mineral for proper functioning of the brain, and mainly due to its antioxidant activity, it is possible to exert a special role in the prevention and in the nutritional management of Parkinson's disease. Currently, few researchers have investigated the effects of selenium on Parkinson´s disease. However, it is known that very high or very low body levels of selenium can (possibly) contribute to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, because this imbalance results in increased levels of oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of this work is to review and discuss studies that have addressed these topics and to finally associate the information obtained from them so that these data and associations serve as input to new research.
Coconut oil on biochemical and morphological parameters in rats submitted to normolipidic and hyperlipidic diets
Authors: Schumacher Bianca de Oliveira , Preuss Edcarlos Maurino , Vargas Carolina Galarza , Helbig Elizabete
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of replacing soybean oil with extra virgin coconut oil in normolipidic and hyperlipidic diets, on the lipid metabolism of Wistar rats. In the first stage of the experiment (30 days), 36 rats were divided into 2 groups and fed with a control or a hyperlipidic diet. Six animals from each group were then killed, and the remaining rats were redistributed into 4 new groups: 2 groups remained on the control and hyperlipidic diets, and in the diets of the other 2 groups, the soybean oil was replaced with coconut oil (30 days). At the end of the assay, the biological models were decapitated for blood collection and removal of organs and peritoneal fat. Although the diet intake differed among groups during both stages of the experiment, no differences were noted with regard to weight gain and peritoneal fat. Replacing soybean oil with coconut oil in the rat diet lowered triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein serum concentrations in both groups. Liver parameters, namely, total cholesterol and triacylglycerols, increased with the substitution of soybean oil by coconut oil in the normolipidic diet and decreased in the hyperlipidic diet. Thus, replacing soybean oil by coconut oil may improve serum and liver lipid levels in Wistar rats.
Influence of lactation stages and rain periods on subclinical mastitis in meat producing ewes
Authors: Zafalon Luiz Francisco , Fim Júnior Guilherme Aparecido , Vaso Carolina Orlando , Lopes Nahryda Samara dos Santos , Veschi Josir Laine Aparecida , Santana Raul Costa Mascarenhas
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT: Mastitis negatively influences the survival and weight gain of ovines for meat production. The purpose of this study was to investigate, in sheep for meat production, the occurrence of subclinical mastitis in ewes at the end of lactation and beginning of the consecutive lactation and to assess the composition and cellular characteristics of milk as a function of different rainfall indices. Mammary halves (821) of Santa Ines (479) and Morada Nova (342) ewes were examined. Milk samples were collected in two different moments of lactation: at weaning and postpartum of the consecutive lactation. Sample collection periods were called "dry" or "rainy" according to the rainfall index in the month immediately before the month of collection. The occurrence of subclinical mastitis at weaning in the Santa Ines and Morada Nova ewes were 16.4 and 12.6% in the dry period, and 17.7 and 23.5% in the rainy period, respectively. In the consecutive lactation period, the occurrences were 26.7 and 27.7% in the dry period and 41.8 and 39.1% in the rainy period, for the Santa Ines and Morada Nova ewes, respectively. Postpartum stage was critical for the occurrence of subclinical mastitis, as compared to that at the end of the previous lactation. Occurrence of the disease negatively influenced the SCC in the milk at the beginning of lactation and changed its composition, mainly in the rainiest periods, probably due to a difficulty in maintaining hygiene in the environment where the animals remained.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN TREATMENT COMPLIANCE AND DIFFERENT TYPES OF CARDIOVASCULAR COMPLICATIONS IN ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION PATIENTS
Authors: Lima Daniele Braz da Silva , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Borges José Wicto Pereira , Rodrigues Malvina Thaís Pacheco
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT: This cross-sectional analytical study was carried out at 23 Family Health Centers in Fortaleza-CE, Brazil. The objective was to verify the link between anti-hypertension treatment compliance and the types of cardiovascular complications present in hypertensive patients. The sample was composed of 182 hypertensive patients registered in the Sistema de Gestão Clínica de Hipertensão Arterial e Diabetes Mellitus da Atenção Básica who accepted to answer and fill in a structured form and an instrument to assess compliance. Among the arterial hypertension patients questioned, 62.0% were women, 66.9% were elderly people, 52.2% were patients with a family income between 1.5 and four monthly minimum wages, 61.2% had between one and eight years of education and 60.4% lived in households with two to four people. The most frequent complications found were cerebrovascular accident (37.9%) followed by acute myocardial infarction (20.3%). Treatment compliance was present in 52.0% of patients and was associated to cerebrovascular accident (p<0.001; OR=3.048; 95%CI=1.633-5.681). The results obtained suggest the need for a behavioral change in hypertensive patients, adopting health promotion measures in order to prevent further cardiovascular complications.