bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of blade lean angle on a hydraulic retarder
Authors: Chen Ming , Guo Xuexun , Tan Gangfeng , Pei Xiaofei , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2016

The rotor and stator blade lean angle of a hydraulic retarder is one of its main geometrical design parameters. The objective of this study is to clarify the effects of blade lean angle on hydraulic retarder performance. In this article, we employ a computational fluid dynamic approach to numerically investigate the fluid flow of a hydraulic retarder for rotor blade lean angles of 35°, 40°, 43°, and 45° in the direction of rotation, where the stator employs an equivalent angle, and all other geometries are held constant. The numerical results of the braking torque were validated against available experimental results. Analyses of torque performance, flow field, and energy loss are conducted in this study. Additionally, the outer loop oil flow rate is used as another indicator of hydraulic retarder heat exchange performance. The results indicate that with increasing blade lean angle, both the braking torque and oil volume flow rate first increase and then decrease, reflecting an optimal value. The lean angle affects secondary vortex flows and separate flows. Relatively large lean angles may enhance the occurrence of separate flow, whereas relatively small lean angles may cause in the oil inlet region. An optimal blade lean angle achieves a smooth oriented inner flow and a maximum braking torque.
Sustaining health education research programs in Aboriginal communities
Authors: Wisener Katherine , Shapka Jennifer , Jarvis-Selinger Sandra
Published: May 2016

Despite evidence supporting the ongoing provision of health education interventions in First Nations communities, there is a paucity of research that specifically addresses how these programs should be designed to ensure sustainability and long-term effects. Using a Community-Based Research approach, a collective case study was completed with three Canadian First Nations communities to address the following research question: What factors are related to sustainable health education programs, and how do they contribute to and/or inhibit program success in an Aboriginal context? Semi-structured interviews and a sharing circle were completed with 19 participants, including members of community leadership, external partners, and program staff and users. Seven factors were identified to either promote or inhibit program sustainability, including: 1) community uptake; 2) environmental factors; 3) stakeholder awareness and support; 4) presence of a champion; 5) availability of funding; 6) fit and flexibility; and 7) capacity and capacity building. Each factor is provided with a working definition, influential moderators, and key evaluation questions. This study is grounded in, and builds on existing research, and can be used by First Nations communities and universities to support effective sustainability planning for community-based health education interventions.
Factors Associated With Callus in Patients with Diabetes, Focused on Plantar Shear Stress During Gait
Authors: Hamatani Masako , Mori Taketoshi , Oe Makoto , Noguchi Hiroshi , Takehara Kimie , Amemiya Ayumi , Ohashi Yumiko , Ueki Kohjiro , Kadowaki Takashi , Sanada Hiromi
Published: May 2016

Background:

The aim of this study is to identify whether plantar shear stress in neuropathic patients with diabetes with callus is increased compared with those without callus.

Method:

The differences in foot deformity, limited joint mobility, repetitive stress of walking, and ill-fitting shoes between patients with callus and those without callus were also determined. Subjects were recruited from the Diabetic Foot Outpatient Clinic. A newly developed in-shoe measurement system, which has flexible and thin insoles, enabled measurement of both plantar pressure and shear stress simultaneously when subjects walked as usual on a 10 m walkway.

Results:

It was found that plantar shear stress adjusted for weight during the push-off phase was increased by 1.32 times in patients with callus compared with those without callus (mean ± SD: 0.0500 ± 0.0160 vs 0.0380 ± 0.0144, P = .031). Moreover, hallux valgus deformity, reduction in dorsiflexion of the ankle joint and increase in plantar flexion were showed in feet with callus. Increased plantar shear stress may be caused by gait change that patients having callus push off with the metatarsal head instead of the toe as a result of foot deformity and limited joint mobility.

Conclusions:

It was found that plantar shear stress adjusted for weight during the push-off phase was increased in patients with callus compared with those without callus by using the newly developed measurement system. These results suggest that reduction of plantar shear stress during the push-off phase can prevent callus formation in neuropathic patients with diabetes.
The use and effect of video game design theory in the creation of game-based systems for upper limb stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Barrett N , Swain I , Gatzidis C , Mecheraoui C
Published: May 2016

Upper limb exercise is often neglected during post-stroke rehabilitation. Video games have been shown to be useful in providing environments in which patients can practise repetitive, functionally meaningful movements, and in inducing neuroplasticity. The design of video games is often focused upon a number of fundamental principles, such as reward, goals, challenge and the concept of meaningful play, and these same principles are important in the design of games for rehabilitation. Further to this, there have been several attempts for the strengthening of the relationship between commercial game design and rehabilitative game design, the former providing insight into factors that can increase motivation and engagement with the latter. In this article, we present an overview of various game design principles and the theoretical grounding behind their presence, in addition to attempts made to utilise these principles in the creation of upper limb stroke rehabilitation systems and the outcomes of their use. We also present research aiming to move the collaborative efforts of designers and therapists towards a model for the structured design of these games and the various steps taken concerning the theoretical classification and mapping of game design concepts with intended cognitive and motor outcomes.
Emergency Presentation and Short-Term Survival Among Patients With Colorectal Cancer Enrolled in the Government Health Plan of Puerto Rico
Authors: Ortiz-Ortiz Karen J. , Ríos-Motta Ruth , Marín-Centeno Heriberto , Cruz-Correa Marcia R. , Ortiz Ana P.
Published: May 2016

Objective:

In this study, we examine factors associated with the use of the emergency room (ER) as an entry point into the health-care system to initiate a cancer diagnosis among Puerto Rico’s Government Health Plan (GHP) patients and compare the 1-year survival of GHP patients that initiated cancer diagnosis in the emergency room (ER) presentation with those that initiated the diagnosis in a physician’s office.

Methods:

Data for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) aged 50 to 64 years and diagnosed in 2012 were obtained from the Puerto Rico Central Cancer Registry and linked to the Puerto Rico Health Insurance Administration database (n = 190). Crude odds ratio, adjusted odds ratio, and their 95% confidence intervals were reported. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to generate survival curves. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between ER presentation and 1-year cause-specific survival.

Results:

We found that 37.37% of the study population had an ER presentation. Male patients had a higher occurrence of having an ER presentation (66.20%), while 76.06% of the patients with an ER presentation were diagnosed in late stage. Emergency room presentation was a highly predictive factor for cancer mortality in the year following the diagnosis. These patients had between 3.99 to 4.24 times higher mortality risk than non-ER presentation patients ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Late presentation for CRC diagnosis through an ER visit is a significant concern that influences negatively on the patient’s outcome. Efforts at increasing primary care visits and routine screening tests among GHP beneficiaries could improve survival.
Dimers of oxocentred [OCu4]6+ tetrahedra in two novel copper selenite chlorides, K[Cu3O](SeO3)2Cl and Na2[Cu7O2] (SeO3)4Cl4, and related minerals and inorganic compounds
Authors: Kovrugin Vadim M. , Colmont Marie , Mentré Olivier , Siidra Oleg I. , Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: May 2016

Two novel copper selenite chlorides, K[Cu3O](SeO3)2Cl (I) and Na2[Cu7O2](SeO3)4Cl4 (II), have been synthesized by the CVT method. Their crystal structures have been solved by direct methods and refined by least-squares techniques. I is triclinic, space group P1̄, a = 7.6821(5), b = 8.1179(5), c = 8.7836(6) Å, α = 113.193(3), β = 108.735(4), γ = 98.245(4)°, V = 453.32(5) Å3, R1 = 0.0481 for 1210 unique reflections with F≥4σ(F); II is triclinic, space group P1̄,a = 7.4362(6), b = 8.3361(7), c = 9.1343(11) Å,α = 110.277(6), β = 106.212(6), γ = 105.158(4)°, V = 467.94(8) Å3, R1 = 0.0265 for 2498 unique reflections with F≥4σ(F). The structures of I and II can be described in terms of dimers of copper oxocentred tetrahedra. In I, two (OCu4)6+ tetrahedra share a common Cu···Cu edge to form the [O2Cu6]8+ dimer, whereas the structure of II is based upon two (OCu4)6+ tetrahedra linked together by one common Cu atom resulting in the formation of the [O2Cu7]10+ dimer. A comparison with related minerals and inorganic compounds is given.
Vanadium, V – a new native element mineral from the Colima volcano, State of Colima, Mexico, and implications for fumarole gas composition
Authors: Ostrooumov M. , Taran Y.
Published: May 2016

Vanadium, V, is a new mineral found in sublimates of high-temperature fumaroles of the Colima volcano, Mexico. The mineral precipitates over a narrow temperature range of 550–680°C, and occurs in association with colimaite (K3VS4) and shcherbinaite (V2O5). Native vanadium was been found on the inner wall of an inserted silica tube and subsequently in the adjacent rock of the Z3 fumarole. Vanadium forms smooth, irregular to flattened crystals, 5–20 μm in diameter. Smaller irregular crystals have also been observed in silica tubes. Due to its small crystal size, its physical properties (hardness, cleavage and density) could not be determined. An EDS spectrum indicated the presence of V, Fe, Al and Ti with an empirical formula calculated on the basis of EPMA analyses of V0.86Fe0.09Al0.04Ti0.01. Gandolfi and glancing-angle X-ray diffraction data showed that the microcrystals were body-centred cubic, space group Im3̄m, a = 3.022(3) Å, V = 27.60 (5) Å3, Z = 2. The five strongest calculated diffraction lines are [ d spacings in Å, (I) (hkl)]: 2.1411 (100)(110), 1.5126 (12)(200), 1.2301 (19)(211), 0.9565 (8)(310) and 8.8090 (11)(321). The calculated density is 6.033 g cm–3. Thermochemical modelling was used to explain why very oxidized gas at Colima precipitates V-bearing minerals and some native elements (vanadium and gold). Vanadium, is the second newly recognized mineral species (after colimaite) collected from an active fumarole in this volcanic crater. The mineral and its name have been approved by the CNMNC (IMA 2012-021a).
SeqPurge: highly-sensitive adapter trimming for paired-end NGS data
Authors: Sturm Marc , Schroeder Christopher , Bauer Peter
Published: May 2016

Background

Trimming of adapter sequences from short read data is a common preprocessing step during NGS data analysis. When performing paired-end sequencing, the overlap between forward and reverse read can be used to identify excess adapter sequences. This is exploited by several previously published adapter trimming tools. However, our evaluation on amplicon-based data shows that most of the current tools are not able to remove all adapter sequences and that adapter contamination may even lead to spurious variant calls.

Results

Here we present SeqPurge (https://github.com/imgag/ngs-bits), a highly-sensitive adapter trimmer that uses a probabilistic approach to detect the overlap between forward and reverse reads of Illumina sequencing data. SeqPurge can detect very short adapter sequences, even if only one base long. Compared to other adapter trimmers specifically designed for paired-end data, we found that SeqPurge achieves a higher sensitivity. The number of remaining adapter bases after trimming is reduced by up to 90 %, depending on the compared tool. In simulations with different error rates, we found that SeqPurge is also the most error-tolerant adapter trimmer in the comparison.

Conclusion

SeqPurge achieves a very high sensitivity and a high error-tolerance, combined with a specificity and runtime that are comparable to other state-of-the-art adapter trimmers. The very good adapter trimming performance, complemented with additional features such as quality-based trimming and basic quality control, makes SeqPurge an excellent choice for the pre-processing of paired-end NGS data.
Low coverage sequencing of three echinoderm genomes: the brittle star Ophionereis fasciata, the sea star Patiriella regularis, and the sea cucumber Australostichopus mollis
Authors: Long Kyle A , Nossa Carlos W , Sewell Mary A , Putnam Nicholas H , Ryan Joseph F
Published: May 2016

Background

There are five major extant groups of Echinodermata: Crinoidea (feather stars and sea lillies), Ophiuroidea (brittle stars and basket stars), Asteroidea (sea stars), Echinoidea (sea urchins, sea biscuits, and sand dollars), and Holothuroidea (sea cucumbers). These animals are known for their pentaradial symmetry as adults, unique water vascular system, mutable collagenous tissues, and endoskeletons of high magnesium calcite. To our knowledge, the only echinoderm species with a genome sequence available to date is Strongylocentrotus pupuratus (Echinoidea). The availability of additional echinoderm genome sequences is crucial for understanding the biology of these animals.

Findings

Here we present assembled draft genomes of the brittle star Ophionereis fasciata, the sea star Patiriella regularis, and the sea cucumber Australostichopus mollis from Illumina sequence data with coverages of 12.5x, 22.5x, and 21.4x, respectively.

Conclusions

These data provide a resource for mining gene superfamilies, identifying non-coding RNAs, confirming gene losses, and designing experimental constructs. They will be important comparative resources for future genomic studies in echinoderms.
TRIF-dependent TLR signaling, its functions in host defense and inflammation, and its potential as a therapeutic target
Authors: Ullah M Obayed , Sweet Matthew J , Mansell Ashley , Kellie Stuart , Kobe Bostjan
Published: May 2016

Toll/IL-1R domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-β (TRIF)-dependent signaling is required for TLR-mediated production of type-I IFN and several other proinflammatory mediators. Various pathogens target the signaling molecules and transcriptional regulators acting in the TRIF pathway, thus demonstrating the importance of this pathway in host defense. Indeed, the TRIF pathway contributes to control of both viral and bacterial pathogens through promotion of inflammatory mediators and activation of antimicrobial responses. TRIF signaling also has both protective and pathologic roles in several chronic inflammatory disease conditions, as well as an essential function in wound-repair processes. Here, we review our current understanding of the regulatory mechanisms that control TRIF-dependent TLR signaling, the role of the TRIF pathway in different infectious and noninfectious pathologic states, and the potential for manipulating TRIF-dependent TLR signaling for therapeutic benefit.
Out-Of-Plane Behavior of Confined Masonry Walls Subjected to Concentrated Loads (One-Way Bending)
Authors: Navarrete-Macias Dante , Varela-Rivera Jorge , Fernandez-Baqueiro Luis
Published: May 2016

This paper presents the results of a study on the out-of-plane seismic behavior of confined masonry walls. Five confined walls were tested under reverse cyclic loads. The variables studied were the axial stress and the wall aspect ratio. Analytical out-of-plane strength of walls was calculated considering the strengths of the wall panel and the concrete confining elements. The former was determined using the unidirectional strut method and the latter using a plastic analysis. It was observed that for walls with the same aspect ratio, as the axial stress increases, the out-of-plane strength increases. For walls with the same axial stress, as the aspect ratio increases, the strength decreases. Based on comparisons between analytical and experimental results, it was concluded that the models developed in this work predict accurately the out-of-plane strength of the walls.
Prospective Analysis of Oncogenic Driver Mutations and Environmental Factors: Japan Molecular Epidemiology for Lung Cancer Study
Authors: Kawaguchi Tomoya , Koh Yasuhiro , Ando Masahiko , Ito Norimasa , Takeo Sadanori , Adachi Hirofumi , Tagawa Tsutomu , Kakegawa Seiichi , Yamashita Motohiro , Kataoka Kazuhiko , Ichinose Yukito , Takeuchi Yukiyasu , Serizawa Masakuni , Tamiya Akihiro , Shimizu Shigeki , Yoshimoto Naoki , Kubo Akihito , Isa Shun-ichi , Saka Hideo , Matsumura Akihide
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Oncogenic driver mutations are critical for lung cancer development and serve as therapeutic targets. However, their associations with environmental factors are not fully understood. We aimed to elucidate the relationship between tumor developmental biology and exposure to environmental factors.

Patients and Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, molecular epidemiology study. Eligible patients were those with newly diagnosed stages I to IIIB non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent surgery. The tumors were examined for somatic mutations in 72 cancer-associated genes by targeted deep sequencing, estrogen receptor β (ERβ) expression using immunohistochemical staining, and infection with any of 37 types of human papillomavirus (HPV) using a polymerase chain reaction–based microarray system. Detailed information on patient demographics and environmental factors was obtained from a comprehensive questionnaire.

Results

From July 2012 to December 2013, 957 patients were enrolled, and molecular analyses were performed on 876 samples (from 441 ever- and 435 never-smokers). Oncogenic driver mutations in P53 and KRAS increased proportionally with smoking status, whereas mutations in EGFR and SMAD4 decreased. KRAS mutations in smokers and SMAD4 mutations were observed more frequently in proportion to body mass index. TP53 and NFE2L2 mutations were observed more frequently in advanced NSCLC stages. As for never-smokers, no environmental factors were significantly associated with mutational changes. EGFR mutations and TP53 mutations were observed more frequently in women and in men, respectively. Mutations in these two genes were also potentially associated with ERβ expression. Only three patients (0.3%) were HPV positive.

Conclusion

The mutational spectrum is associated with smoking, body mass index, and other environmental factors, as well as with ERβ expression. Little association was observed between HPV and NSCLC.
Evaluating Cancer of the Central Nervous System Through Next-Generation Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Pentsova Elena I. , Shah Ronak H. , Tang Jiabin , Boire Adrienne , You Daoqi , Briggs Samuel , Omuro Antonio , Lin Xuling , Fleisher Martin , Grommes Christian , Panageas Katherine S. , Meng Fanli , Selcuklu S. Duygu , Ogilvie Shahiba , Distefano Natalie , Shagabayeva Larisa , Rosenblum Marc , DeAngelis Lisa M. , Viale Agnes , Mellinghoff Ingo K. , Berger Michael F.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Cancer spread to the central nervous system (CNS) often is diagnosed late and is unresponsive to therapy. Mechanisms of tumor dissemination and evolution within the CNS are largely unknown because of limited access to tumor tissue.

Materials and Methods

We sequenced 341 cancer-associated genes in cell-free DNA from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained through routine lumbar puncture in 53 patients with suspected or known CNS involvement by cancer.

Results

We detected high-confidence somatic alterations in 63% (20 of 32) of patients with CNS metastases of solid tumors, 50% (six of 12) of patients with primary brain tumors, and 0% (zero of nine) of patients without CNS involvement by cancer. Several patients with tumor progression in the CNS during therapy with inhibitors of oncogenic kinases harbored mutations in the kinase target or kinase bypass pathways. In patients with glioma, the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults, examination of cell-free DNA uncovered patterns of tumor evolution, including temozolomide-associated mutations.

Conclusion

The study shows that CSF harbors clinically relevant genomic alterations in patients with CNS cancers and should be considered for liquid biopsies to monitor tumor evolution in the CNS.
The thermal dependence of Na+ flux in isolated liver cells from ectotherms and endotherms
Authors: Else Paul L.
Published: May 2016

The thermal dependence (0-40oC) of Na+ flux in isolated liver cells of three endotherms (mice, rat and rabbit) was compared to ectotherms in the form of a thermally tolerant amphibian (cane toad), a cold-water fish (rainbow trout) and a thermophilic reptile (lizard). Mammals were found to share similar high rates of Na+ flux (3.0-3.7 nmoles Na+. mgP−1. min−1) at their normal body temperatures (between 36-39 oC). These Na+ flux rates were significantly greater (p<0.0004-0.0001) than those of the ectotherms that shared similar low rates of Na+ flux (0.7-1.3 nmoles Na+. mgP−1. min−1) at their very different normal acclimated body temperatures (15oC for trout, 25oC for toad and 37oC for the lizard species). Trout, that possess highly unsaturated membranes (similar to those of mammals), showed a Na+ flux with high thermal sensitivity at low temperature similar to that found in mammals at higher temperature. The thermal sensitivity of toad Na+ flux was significantly less (p<0.05-0.01) than that present in rat and rabbit. Trout Na+ flux did not increase with increasing temperature much above 20oC, whereas all other species measured increased their Na+ flux with increasing temperature up to 40oC. In conclusion, at normal operating body temperatures the rate of Na+ flux is much lower in ectotherms.
Physiological responses to hypersalinity correspond to nursery ground usage in two inshore shark species (Mustelus antarcticus & Galeorhinus galeus)
Authors: Tunnah Louise , Mackellar Sara R. C. , Barnett David A. , Maccormack Tyson J. , Stehfest Kilian M. , Morash Andrea J. , Semmens Jayson M. , Currie Suzanne
Published: May 2016

Shark nurseries are susceptible to environmental fluctuations in salinity because of their shallow, coastal nature; however, the physiological impacts on resident elasmobranchs are largely unknown. Gummy (Mustelus antarcticus) and school sharks (Galeorhinus galeus) use the same Tasmanian estuary as a nursery ground; however, each species has distinct distribution patterns that are coincident with changes in local environmental conditions, such as increases in salinity. We hypothesized that these differences were directly related to differential physiological tolerances to high salinity. To test this hypothesis, we exposed wild, juvenile school and gummy sharks to an environmentally-relevant hypersaline (120% SW) event for 48 h. Metabolic rate decreased 20-35% in both species, and gill Na+/K+ ATPase activity was maintained in gummy sharks but decreased 37% in school sharks. We measured plasma ions (Na+, K+, Cl−), and osmolytes (urea and trimethylamine oxide (TMAO)), and observed a 33% increase in plasma Na+ in gummy sharks with hyperosmotic exposure, while school sharks displayed a typical ureosmotic increase in plasma urea (∼20%). With elevated salinity, gill TMAO concentration increased by 42% in school sharks and by 30% in gummy sharks. Indicators of cellular stress (heat shock proteins HSP70, 90, 110, and ubiquitin) significantly increased in gill, and white muscle in both a species- and tissue- specific manner. Overall, gummy sharks exhibited greater osmotic perturbation and ionic dysregulation and a larger cellular stress response compared to school sharks. Our findings provide physiological correlates to the observed distribution, and movement of these shark species in their critical nursery grounds.
Computational Mutation Study of the Roles of Catalytic Residues in Coenzyme B12-Dependent Diol Dehydratase
Authors: Doitomi Kazuki , Kamachi Takashi , Toraya Tetsuo , Yoshizawa Kazunari
Published: May 2016

The His143, Glu170, and Asp335 residues at the substrate-binding site of diol dehydratase, a calcium–metalloenzyme, are shown by a computational mutation study to play important roles in OH group migration (the second step in the enzymatic reaction). The reaction is accelerated by the synergetic interplay of the heterolysis of the C2–O2 bond of 1,2-diol radical and the partial deprotonation of the spectator OH group by Glu170. The His143 residue works as a donor to the migrating OH group through a hydrogen bond, which contributes to the C2–O2 bond heterolysis and resultant resonance stabilization. The Glu170 residue activates the spectator OH group to energetically stabilize the transition state in the OH group migration. The resonance stabilization of the transition state in the OH group migration is observed in the wild-type enzyme while not in the His143Ala mutant. Since the cleavage of the C2–O2 bond of 1,2-diol radical proceeds in a more homolytic manner in the His143Ala mutant, Glu170 cannot effectively deprotonate the spectator OH group in the transition state. As a result, the activation energy of the OH group migration in the His143Ala mutant is increased compared to that in the wild-type enzyme. The spectator OH group is not fully activated in the Glu170Gln and Glu170Ala mutants during the OH group migration, and thus the activation energies in the Glu170Gln and Glu170Ala mutants are higher than that in the wild-type enzyme. In contrast, the OH group migration is accelerated in the Asp335Ala mutant, due to the absence of the electric repulsion between Asp335 and the migrating OH group. The computed relative activity of the His143Ala, Glu170Gln, and Glu170Ala mutants successfully reproduces the experimentally determined catalytic activity, indicating that a computational mutation study offers a useful methodology in enzyme research.
Case Report: Successful delivery in a 44-year-old woman using vitrified human oocytes taken from the woman at 41 years of age
Authors: Funabiki Miyako , Nakamura Yoshitaka , Taguchi Sagiri
Published: May 2016

Successful pregnancies and deliveries are rare in women over 40 years of age. To date, no case report has been published about a successful delivery in a woman over 40 years of age using vitrified oocytes obtained through social egg freezing from a woman over 40 years of age. Here we report a case of a successful live birth from a 44-year-old woman using vitrified oocytes taken from the woman at 41 years of age; the patient used the technique for social reasons. The 44-year-old patient delivered a 2534 g female infant by Caesarean section in the 37th week of pregnancy. The female infant’s Apgar scores were 9 at 1 min and 9 at 5 min. The female infant exhibited no anomalies and is developing normally under the close surveillance of pediatricians.

However, the concept of social egg freezing has medical, ethical and social problems. Furthermore, the rate of live births differs among clinics and/or hospitals due to variations in the vitrification and warming techniques used. Therefore, information from individual clinics and/or hospitals about the risks, the rates of successful live births and the cost of social egg freezing should be provided to patients to aid in the patient’s decision-making process.
European Union and European Germany
Authors: Czarny Elżbieta , Menkes Jerzy
Published: May 2016

We analyze the correlation between the European integration and incorporating Germany into the process of European cooperation. We point out that the European integration after WWII was determined by the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community in the year 1951. This Community made it possible to control the steel industry of the Member States (among them Germany) within the framework of the common market. It was aimed at stable and harmonized development, as well as at preventing an uncontrolled growth of military-industrial complex, increasing the production for the army and decreasing the probability of the outbreak of the next war. Then - after the deepening of cooperation (taking her new areas) – the European Communities (EC) were created. They are still institutional foundations of the EU. One of the main reasons of the EC creation was the willingness to ensure lasting peace in Europe and to create „security community” through a.o. incorporation of Germany into the group of cooperating states. In this paper, we analyze the security system components created (e.g.) by the EC/EU, as well as the origin and changes of their characteristics.  We compare the process of German unification (and more general: of defining the German unity, and broader: unity of the German speaking territory) after WWI and WWII. The analysis of similarities and differences leads us to the present stage of the European integration, when the unification of two German states was accomplished for the price of German acceptance of deepening of the integration and the creation of the European monetary union. We analyze various consequences of unification of Germany and the creation of the euro zone. In our opinion, they go far beyond the economic or political  ones, and are connected with the EU Eastern enlargement.
Flow Balancing with Uncertain Demand for Automated Package Sorting Centers
Authors: Novoa Luis J. , Jarrah Ahmad I. , Morton David P.
Published: May 2016

Package carriers use sophisticated automated sorting facilities to efficiently process inbound packages and sort them to their down line destinations. During each of several daily processing windows, primary sorters perform high level sortation of the packages and direct them to one of several secondary sorters that are then used to segregate the packages by their outbound loading destinations. We examine the problem of assigning package destinations to the secondary sorters in a way that balances the workload in the facility, while incorporating the day-to-day fluctuation in package volumes and adhering to the outbound loading capacities of the various workcenters in the facility. We present a general stochastic modeling framework using chance constraints to balance the flows, and robust constraints to model the capacity limits. We propose and evaluate the performance of three alternative mixed integer nonlinear formulations for the problem and determine which is most effective. Significant improvement in package flow balance and loading capacity robustness is shown for the test sorting facilities by comparing the solutions from the proposed new model to those obtained when ignoring, partially or completely, the stochasticity in the package volumes.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2015.0662 .
Because you're worth it…
Authors: Fraser Stuart
Published: May 2016

Whether you're a small, standalone dental surgery or part of a large franchise, the issue of infection control carries more weight than ever when it comes to the safety and reputation of your practice
Preventing surgical site infections: equine surgical site preparation
Authors: Lane Catherine
Published: May 2016

By following evidence-based veterinary medicine, protocols can be produced in practice to aid veterinary nurses in performing surgical site preparation to prevent surgical site infections. Care must be taken to adequately prepare equine patients for surgery by following these evidence-based protocols as infectious complications, particularly in racehorses, may be life threatening if they affect long-term performance ability, thus veterinary nurses must ensure gold standard patient care and consequently improving patient welfare.
Reflections on the peripheral: Punk, pedagogy and the domestication of the radical
Authors: Dines Mike
Published: May 2016

This article sets out an auto-ethnographic and theoretical approach in examining the complex intersections of punk, pedagogy and academia. Employing a biographical narrative – including the author’s own work as an academic and educator – this article highlights the
complexities in researching, writing and publishing in the field of punk/subcultural studies. In particular it draws upon critical pedagogy to inform and unpack notions of a ‘punk pedagogy’ and to critically appraise the relationship between academia and identity politics. In particular
it examines links between the marketization of education and identity politics. In conclusion, the article notes the precarious nature of punk academia: one that needs to resolve inner tensions to remain critical and current.
Listening in circles: Punk pedagogy and the decline of western music education
Authors: Schwartz Jessica A.
Published: May 2016

This article considers the musical and philosophical education, formal and informal, of early punk participants and suggests that close readings of their intellectual histories yield insight into punks’ larger contributions to musical thought, practice and pedagogy. It offers
a theory of punk as a critical, musical literacy that challenges the hierarchical value put on western classical music as the literate music. I suggest that punk writers of different textual genres, such as songs and ‘zines, captured and transformed the sounds of ‘civilized’
stagnation – a Cold War educational system that fed the military-industrial complex, devalued cultural expressions like music and other creative arts, and taught students to read towards standardized tests rather than as a critical art form. Since punk is first and foremost a musical
subculture, I demonstrate that formal analyses of the music, at the level of the song, in addition to lyrical analyses, indicate early punks’ leadership roles in developing a critical literary practice that systematically deconstructed conventional notions of musical notation (capturing
sounds with a codified system of signs), which puts pressure on extant pedagogical models. Furthering this argument, I take case studies as metaphors from punk productions, such as early English ‘zines, the Los Angeles-focused film The Decline of Western Civilization (1981), directed
by Penelope Spheeris, and the Germs’ first single, ‘Forming’, to share the philosophical and pedagogical underpinnings of punk subculture as a viable alternative educational space.
‘I could scream my truth right through your lies if I wanted’: Bikini Kill’s sound-collage and the subversive rhetoric of grrrlhood
Authors: Sormus Megan
Published: May 2016

This article investigates how riot grrrl, a movement pinned to punk pedagogy, used music and its components (lyrics and sound) to manipulate the marketed images of girlhood. This was in order to offend the sensibilities of the mediatized and commodified landscape of girl culture. It
will use an analysis of three Bikini Kill songs to reveal how, as the language of juxtaposition (as lyrics) and sound coalesces in their music, Bikini Kill created a chaotic vocal and visual artistry that transformed their songs into distinctive sound-collages. As such, the article aims to
identify that grrrls combined language with sound as a noisy means to self-define, and build a rich language of resistance against mass culture. It proposes that riot grrrl worked to rewrite the found narratives of girlhood in an eye-catching, but most prominently to the notion of sound-collage,
ear-catching form of subversion. Despite the break-up of Bikini Kill in 1997, their music is still both audible and visible. Thus, this article concludes to suggest that the subversive subject can still take recourse in the sound-collage, as its project of communication is one that still resonates.
Conference Review
Authors: Dines Mike , Gordon Alastair
Published: May 2016

Keep it Simple, Make it Fast! Crossing Borders of Underground Music Scenes, International Conference, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal, 13–17 July 2015
Review
Authors: Raghunath Anita
Published: May 2016

Punk Now!, The Second Annual Punk Scholars Network Conference and Postgraduate Symposium, Parkside Building, Birmingham, Birmingham City University, 29–30 October 2015
LAMINAR SETTLING OF GLASS BEADS IN VISCO-PLASTIC LIQUIDS
Authors: Kesely Mikoláš , Matoušek Václav
Published: May 2016

The paper deals with a determination of the terminal settling velocity of coarse particles in quiescent visco-plastic liquids of Herschel-Bulkley type. Experiments on laminar settling of glass beads of different sizes were conducted in transparent Carbopol solutions of various rheological properties in a sedimentation column. The terminal settling velocity of a solitude bead was determined together with the rheological parameters of the Carbopol liquid. An evaluation of the experimental results confirms the existence of the laminar regime for all tests and compares the measured velocities with predictions by Wilson et al. method. Furthermore, an alternative method is proposed for a prediction of the terminal settling velocity in the laminar regime which uses a particle-based determination of the strain rate in the expression for the equivalent viscosity. A comparison with our experimental results shows that the predictions using the proposed method agree well with the experiments and the proposed method is in the laminar settling regime more accurate than the Wilson et al. method.
Preparation and Characterization of Honey-Treated PVA Nanowebs
Authors: Turaga Uday , Singh Vinitkumar , Gibson Anna , Maharubin Shahrima , Korzeniewski Carol , Presley Steven , Smith Ernest , Kendall Ronald J. , Ramkumar Seshadri
Published: May 2016

Electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanowebs treated with honey were prepared to exploit the high surface area of nanofibers and the many different beneficial properties of honey. Nanowebs fabricated from biocompatible polymers like PVA, and treated with natural substances like honey, may find use in various biomedical applications such as wound bandages. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to confirm the incorporation of honey into electrospun PVA nanowebs. Treated nanowebs were characterized by evaluating their antimicrobial properties, breathability characteristics, and tensile properties. PVA nanowebs treated with honey demonstrated adequate breathability characteristics for potential use in wound dressings. In this study, no antibacterial activity was observed after treatment with honey.
A clinical trial protocol for the study of intravenous immunoglobulin in patients with primary antibody immunodeficiency disorders
Authors: Hooper John A.
Published: May 2016

This protocol has been excerpted from protocols recently used to study the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of 2 new intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG). It incorporates the safety and efficacy parameters provided by the United States Food and Drug Administration in in a Guidance for Industry that contains recommendations for Investigational New Drug Application sponsors and Biologic License applicants for testing IVIG products as replacement therapy in primary humoral immunodeficiency. The format and contents of the protocol are generally the same as described in the ICH Guideline for Good Clinical Practice. We describe here the topics found in the main body of the protocol. We have omitted items that will be included in a formal protocol such as the title page, identifying number, name and contact information of the sponsor, names and contact information of the persons authorized to sign the protocol and amendments, etc. The success of a study of IVIG in patients with primary humoral immunodeficiency is very much dependent on the care in which patients are selected. It is extremely important to enroll patients who have been verified to be antibody deficient. Therefore, patient selection criteria should involve a thorough review of each patient’s infection history, serum IgG level prior to immunoglobulin therapy, and antibody responses to polysaccharide and protein vaccines.

Statement of novelty: This protocol is designed to select study subjects with well-documented antibody deficiencies and therefore will benefit from immunoglobulin therapy.
Internationalizing-Innovation Profiles and High-Technology Exports: Does Lone Genius Matter?
Authors: Shaffer Monte J. , Chastagner Kevin , Umesh U.N.
Published: May 2016

Innovation-performance research, when conducted at the firm level, neglects the role of innovation that is created without firm involvement. In this article, the authors test Schumpeter's lone-genius hypothesis: “Change in economic life always starts with the actions of a forceful individual.” To do so, the authors introduce country-level internationalizing-innovation profile (IIP), which characterizes a country's innovation resources, and internationalizing-innovation experience (IIE), which characterizes a country's level of patenting activity into the United States. Using fixed-effects panel data analysis for 50 countries from 1990 through 2010, the authors demonstrate that a country's IIP moderated by IIE influences high-technology exports. The findings suggest that lone genius does have an impact, depending on the phase of a country's IIE development. The implications of these findings for theory, public policy, and international marketing managers are discussed.
Zehn Jahre RFID-Einsatz in der Bibliothek der Medizinischen Fakultät Mannheim
Authors: Semmler-Schmetz Martina , Bohne-Lang Andreas
Published: May 2016

Die Bibliothek der Medizinischen Fakultät Mannheim der Universität Heidelberg blickt auf zehn Jahre Erfahrung mit RFID zurück. Im Jahr 2006 gehörte sie zu den Pionieren der Geschichte von RFID in Bibliotheken und war die erste deutsche Bibliothek, die RFID-Komponenten gekoppelt an das Bibliothekssystem SISIS-SunRise einsetzte.
Rückblick: PROFILE HU – Projekt RFID zur Entwicklung innovativer Dienst- und Serviceleistungen der Bibliotheken der HU – was ist übrig geblieben
Authors: Berghaus-Sprengel Anke
Published: May 2016

Der Artikel bilanziert das von 2009–2013 an der Humboldt-Universität durchgeführte RFID-Projekt. Standardanwendungen für Bibliotheken sind im Regelbetrieb unverzichtbar geworden, Experimente und multifunktionale Geräte erfordern personelle Betreuung. Es besteht Professionalisierungsbedarf bei den Firmen.
The serotonergic system and cognitive function
Authors: Švob Štrac Dubravka , Pivac Nela , Mück-Šeler Dorotea
Published: May 2016

Symptoms of cognitive dysfunction like memory loss, poor concentration, impaired learning and executive functions are characteristic features of both schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The neurobiological mechanisms underlying cognition in healthy subjects and neuropsychiatric patients are not completely understood. Studies have focused on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) as one of the possible cognitionrelated biomarkers. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the current literature on the role of the serotonergic (5-HTergic) system in cognitive function, particularly in AD and schizophrenia.

The role of the 5-HTergic system in cognition is modulated by the activity and function of 5-HT receptors (5-HTR) classified into seven groups, which differ in structure, action, and localization. Many 5-HTR are located in the regions linked to various cognitive processes. Preclinical studies using animal models of learning and memory, as well as clinical in vivo (neuroimaging) and in vitro (post-mortem) studies in humans have shown that alterations in 5-HTR activity influence cognitive performance.

The current evidence implies that reduced 5-HT neurotransmission negatively influences cognitive functions and that normalization of 5-HT activity may have beneficial effects, suggesting that 5-HT and 5-HTR represent important pharmacological targets for cognition enhancement and restoration of impaired cognitive performance in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Strategies for Improving Vaccine Delivery: A Cluster-Randomized Trial
Authors: Fu Linda Y. , Zook Kathleen , Gingold Janet A. , Gillespie Catherine W. , Briccetti Christine , Cora-Bramble Denice , Joseph Jill G. , Haimowitz Rachel , Moon Rachel Y.
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE:

New emphasis on and requirements for demonstrating health care quality have increased the need for evidence-based methods to disseminate practice guidelines. With regard to impact on pediatric immunization coverage, we aimed to compare a financial incentive program (pay-for-performance [P4P]) and a virtual quality improvement technical support (QITS) learning collaborative.

METHODS:

This single-blinded (to outcomes assessor), cluster-randomized trial was conducted among unaffiliated pediatric practices across the United States from June 2013 to June 2014. Practices received either the P4P or QITS intervention. All practices received a Vaccinator Toolkit. P4P practices participated in a tiered financial incentives program for immunization coverage improvement. QITS practices participated in a virtual learning collaborative. Primary outcome was percentage of all needed vaccines received (PANVR). We also assessed immunization up-to-date (UTD) status.

RESULTS:

Data were analyzed from 3,147 patient records from 32 practices. Practices in the study arms reported similar QI activities (∼6 to 7 activities). We found no difference in PANVR between P4P and QITS (mean ± SE, 90.7% ± 1.1% vs 86.1% ± 1.3%, P = 0.46). Likewise, there was no difference in odds of being UTD between study arms (adjusted odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 0.68 to 1.52, P = .93). In within-group analysis, patients in both arms experienced nonsignificant increases in PANVR. Similarly, the change in adjusted odds of UTD over time was modest and nonsignificant for P4P but reached significance in the QITS arm (adjusted odds ratio 1.28, 95% confidence interval 1.02 to 1.60, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS:

Participation in either a financial incentives program or a virtual learning collaborative led to self-reported improvements in immunization practices but minimal change in objectively measured immunization coverage.
Пластичність морфометричних ознак Calliphora vicina (Diptera, Calliphoridae) у постійних і мінливих температурних умовах культивування
Authors: Faly L. I. , Shulman M. V.
Published: May 2016

Досліджено мінливість основних морфометричних ознак імаго мух Calliphora vicina R.-D. (Diptera, Calliphoridae) із двох вибірок (n = 33). Перша вибірка – особини, зібрані у природних умовах (паркові екосистеми м. Дніпропетровськ), друга – особини, культивовані у лабораторії при підтриманні постійної температури та вологості. Проаналізовано можливість використання Calliphora vicina R.-D. у біоіндикації антропогенних чинників на підставі результатів морфометричного аналізу. Найсуттєвіші відмінності між вибірками виявлено за шириною голови («лабораторні» особини характеризуються більш константними розмірами голови) та довжиною окремих сегментів кінцівок. В імаго, виведених у постійних умовах, спостерігається вкорочення сегментів I пари ніг порівняно з особинами «природної» вибірки. За більшістю інших лінійних промірів тіла Calliphora vicina R.-D. відмінності між вибірками не реєструються. Незначна мінливість морфометричних характеристик вказує на еволюційно зумовлену стійкість виду до зміни абіотичних факторів середовища. Тому використовувати Calliphora vicina R-D. (за умов розвитку в температурному діапазоні +17…+28 °С) як вид – індикатор зміни температурного фактора довкілля не доцільно.