bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Spectrophotometry, Chromate Inhibition, and Cytofluorometry Versus Gene Sequencing for Detection of Heterozygously Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase-Deficient Females
Authors: Peters Anna L. , Veldthuis Martijn , van Leeuwen Karin , Bossuyt Patrick M.M. , Vlaar Alexander P.J. , van Bruggen Robin , de Korte Dirk , Van Noorden Cornelis J.F. , van Zwieten Rob
Published: September 2017

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide. Detection of heterozygously deficient females can be difficult as residual activity in G6PD-sufficient red blood cells (RBCs) can mask deficiency. In this study, we compared accuracy of 4 methods for detection of G6PD deficiency in females. Blood samples from females more than 3 months of age were used for spectrophotometric measurement of G6PD activity and for determination of the percentage G6PD-negative RBCs by cytofluorometry. An additional sample from females suspected to have G6PD deficiency based on the spectrophotometric G6PD activity was used for measuring chromate inhibition and sequencing of the G6PD gene. Of 165 included females, 114 were suspected to have heterozygous deficiency. From 75 females, an extra sample was obtained. In this group, mutation analysis detected 27 heterozygously deficient females. The sensitivity of spectrophotometry, cytofluorometry, and chromate inhibition was calculated to be 0.52 (confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–0.71), 0.85 (CI: 0.66–0.96), and 0.96 (CI: 0.71–1.00, respectively, and the specificity was 1.00 (CI: 0.93–1.00), 0.88 (CI: 0.75–0.95), and 0.98 (CI: 0.89–1.00), respectively. Heterozygously G6PD-deficient females with a larger percentage of G6PD-sufficient RBCs are missed by routine methods measuring total G6PD activity. However, the majority of these females can be detected with both chromate inhibition and cytofluorometry.
Molecular Cytogenetic Characterization Identified the Murine B-Cell Lymphoma Cell Line A-20 as a Model for Sporadic Burkitt’s Lymphoma
Authors: Guja Karolina , Liehr Thomas , Rincic Martina , Kosyakova Nadezda , Hussein Azawi Shaymaa S.
Published: September 2017

Here, we report the first molecular cytogenetic characterization of the BALB/cAnN mouse derived B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-cell NHL) cell lines A-20. Even though previously used as a model for testing of, for example, dexametason, up to present, no data in the genetic properties of A-20 were available. The present study closed this gap and provides evidence that A-20 is a model for B-cell NHL subgroup sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma. C-myc oncogene is involved in a translocation and copy number alterations as gain of murine 14q material could be observed. Interestingly, the cell line showed the karyotype 39,X,-X or -Y,t(2;15)(qE5;qD2),del(6)(qB3qC3),del(9)(qA3qA4),dup(14)(qE1qE4) in ~95% of the cells, being exceptionally stable for cell lines being established 38 years ago. Still, ~5% of the cells showed polyploidization followed by chromothripsis. It remains to be determined if this can be observed also in other cell lines, just has not been reported yet, and/or if it is a unique feature of A-20. Overall, finally here, the necessary genetic data to identify A-20 as a model for human sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma are provided.
Paralela/mente: «El reino interior» como la «obra maestra» de Rubén Darío
Authors: García Morales Alfonso
Published: September 2017

«El reino interior» es el último poema de la primera edición de Prosas profanas (Buenos Aires, 1896) y desde J. E. Rodó hasta la actualidad ha merecido una larga serie de interpretaciones críticas. El objetivo del presente artículo es volver a analizarlo a partir del concepto de «obra maestra», como el poema con el que Darío se propuso conscientemente consagrarse como maestro no sólo de la poesía hispanoamericana sino de la poesía internacional de fin de siglo, a la altura técnica y temática de sus modelos literarios modernos, al nivel de sus propios «raros».
El poema confesional
Authors: Oviedo Pérez de Tudela Rocío
Published: September 2017

El análisis de «Yo soy aquel», primer poema de Cantos de Vida y Esperanza, refleja el cambio experimentado por Rubén Darío, especialmente en su preferencia por el simbolismo frente a la atención que presta a la forma en Prosas Profanas. Poemario más claramente hispano, con una defensa del arielismo que refleja la dedicatoria a José Enrique Rodó. Sin embargo, es en el contenido confesional del poema en el que se desvela el reino interior de Darío, marcado por la dualidad y el esfuerzo por conciliar «sus» contrarios. De la lectura atenta se observa un proceso de transformación de «la estatua bella» a «fauno» monstruoso. Fábulas como la de Eros y Psiquis sirven al poeta para expresar con mayor precisión el juego de antítesis que finaliza con «la caravana pasa», de rasgos relacionados con el gnosticismo cristiano y los rosacruces.
Aprender a escribir con Rubén Darío: hacia una propuesta de comentario de textos esenciales sobre la recepción del Modernismo entre los jóvenes poetas españoles
Authors: Sanchis Amat Víctor Manuel
Published: September 2017

En las líneas que siguen se plantea un ejercicio didáctico de comentario de textos literarios de tres poetas esenciales de la literatura española de la primera mitad del siglo XX. A partir de la definición de la poética dariana que estableciera Pedro Henríquez Ureña, el artículo presenta un comentario sobre las influencias formales y las perspectivas ideológicas herederas de la tradición modernista a partir de la reflexión sobre si Darío pudo o no escribir estos poemas y por qué. Se iniciarán los comentarios formales de los poemas sin desvelar el autor, para después insertar los contextos de producción y valorar también los tópicos modernistas en los jóvenes poetas españoles.
Action of ethylene, 1-methylcyclopropene and silver thiosulfate in two developmental stages of potted ornamental pepper
Authors: Lima Paula Cristina Carvalho , Oliveira Milena Maria Tomaz , Ribeiro Wellington Souto , Costa Lucas Cavalcante , Finger Fernando Luiz
Published: September 2017

The species of Capsicum genus have great genetic variability with enormous potential for marketing as ornamental potted plants. The exposure at ethylene induces various deleterious responses during plants life cycle, but there are few studies on how the ethylene affects early developmental stages of these ornamental plants. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of the application of ethylene and ethylene inhibitors, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and silver thiosulphate (STS) in two early development stages (seedling or initial flowering) of potted ornamental peppers of the cultivars ‘Calypso’ and ‘MG 302’. Cultivar ‘MG 302’ showed intermediate sensitivity to ethylene, while the cultivar ‘Calypso’ showed complete abscission of leaves when exposed to 10 µl of ethylene for 48 hours in both development stages. Plants treated with 1-MCP showed similar durability to control for both varieties and developmental stages, and the treatment with 1-MCP + ethylene was beneficial only for ‘MG 302’. STS was the most efficient substance in delaying the ethylene, wherein at stage 1 there was no leaf abscission and at stage 2 had much reduced leaf abscission occurred, regardless the cultivar. Treatment with STS + ethylene was efficient only at stage 1 for ‘Calypso’ and at stage 2 for ‘MG 302’. According to the data, cultivars showed different levels of sensitivity to ethylene, ‘Calypso’ is very sensitive and ‘MG 302’ showed intermediate sensitivity. Regardless the cultivar, STS treatment significantly blocked the ethylene action in both development stages and the use of 1-MCP was less efficient
Preliminary Report on the Tenth Excavation Season of the Archaeological Expedition to Wad Ben Naga
Authors: Onderka Pavel , Vrtal Vlastimil , Gatzsche Alexander
Published: September 2017

The tenth excavation season of the Archaeological Expedition to Wad Ben Naga focused on the rescue excavations around the rail track intersecting the archaeological site, in the course of which the kom H (of Frederic Cailliaud) was explored. Another task of the season was the partial re-excavation of the Eastern Temple (WBN 500) focused on the earliest occupation of the location. Furthermore, another part of the cemetery WBN C200 was explored.
Can a combination of average of normals and “real time” External Quality Assurance replace Internal Quality Control?
Authors: Badrick Tony , Graham Peter
Published: September 2017

Internal Quality Control and External Quality Assurance are separate but related processes that have developed independently in laboratory medicine over many years. They have different sample frequencies, statistical interpretations and immediacy. Both processes have evolved absorbing new understandings of the concept of laboratory error, sample material matrix and assay capability. However, we do not believe at the coalface that either process has led to much improvement in patient outcomes recently. It is the increasing reliability and automation of analytical platforms along with improved stability of reagents that has reduced systematic and random error, which in turn has minimised the risk of running less frequent IQC. We suggest that it is time to rethink the role of both these processes and unite them into a single approach using an Average of Normals model supported by more frequent External Quality Assurance samples. This new paradigm may lead to less confusion for laboratory staff and quicker responses to and identification of out of control situations.
Irregular analytical errors in diagnostic testing – a novel concept
Authors: Vogeser Michael , Seger Christoph
Published: September 2017

Background:

In laboratory medicine, routine periodic analyses for internal and external quality control measurements interpreted by statistical methods are mandatory for batch clearance. Data analysis of these process-oriented measurements allows for insight into random analytical variation and systematic calibration bias over time. However, in such a setting, any individual sample is not under individual quality control. The quality control measurements act only at the batch level. Quantitative or qualitative data derived for many effects and interferences associated with an individual diagnostic sample can compromise any analyte. It is obvious that a process for a quality-control-sample-based approach of quality assurance is not sensitive to such errors.

Content:

To address the potential causes and nature of such analytical interference in individual samples more systematically, we suggest the introduction of a new term called the irregular
(individual)
analytical error. Practically, this term can be applied in any analytical assay that is traceable to a reference measurement system. For an individual sample an irregular analytical error is defined as an inaccuracy (which is the deviation from a reference measurement procedure result) of a test result that is so high it cannot be explained by measurement uncertainty of the utilized routine assay operating within the accepted limitations of the associated process quality control measurements.

The deviation can be defined as the linear combination of the process measurement uncertainty and the method bias for the reference measurement system. Such errors should be coined irregular analytical errors of the individual sample. The measurement result is compromised either by an irregular effect associated with the individual composition (matrix) of the sample or an individual single sample associated processing error in the analytical process.

Outlook:

Currently, the availability of reference measurement procedures is still highly limited, but LC-isotope-dilution mass spectrometry methods are increasingly used for pre-market validation of routine diagnostic assays (these tests also involve substantial sets of clinical validation samples). Based on this definition/terminology, we list recognized causes of irregular analytical error as a risk catalog for clinical chemistry in this article. These issues include reproducible individual analytical errors (e.g. caused by anti-reagent antibodies) and non-reproducible, sporadic errors (e.g. errors due to incorrect pipetting volume due to air bubbles in a sample), which can both lead to inaccurate results and risks for patients.
Diversities and motivations of Chinese L2 learners
Authors: Wang Wei , Tsung Linda , Wang Kun
Published: September 2017

In the face of significant growth in student enrolments in Modern Chinese language programs at tertiary educational institutions in Australia, the ongoing Chinese language curriculum is facing challenges as to how to cater best for a corpus of students with various language backgrounds and motivations. This study aims to make contribution to the field of Chinese language education by examining how the students’ linguistic/cultural backgrounds and motivations have impacted on their learning of this language in Australian universities. This study examines the interrelationship between language background, motivation, language learning practice and academic achievement of newly-enrolled students in a modern Chinese language program with a view to creating a well-informed curriculum so as to further improve the students’ Chinese language proficiency. The primary data of this study consist of a questionnaire survey of 168 newly enrolled students and observation of first year classes in a modern Chinese language program at a leading university in Australia. While reaffirming that students’ linguistic backgrounds can make a significant impact on their language learning experience, motivations and academic results, this study finds that the closer the relation between the students’ cultural and linguistic background and the Chinese language, the easier it is for the students to learn the language. On the other hand, this situation can also lead to students’ high self-efficacy belief, which can be detrimental to their actual learning experience. Further, the study indicates that the students’ interest in Chinese language and culture as an intrinsic motivation greatly enhances their learning experience.
Quantitative assessment of xylan distribution across the secondary cell wall layers of Eucalyptus dissolving pulp fibres
Authors: Lekha Prabashni , Bush Tamara , Pammenter Norman , Sitholè Bruce , Berjak Patricia
Published: September 2017

A quantitative method has been developed for assessment of the distribution of xylan across the secondary cell wall layers of Eucalyptus dissolving pulp fibres by means of a carbohydrate binding module (CBM), CtCBM6, in combination with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). To ensure reproducibility and to minimise non-specific labelling, various parameters were optimised, namely the size of the gold colloid marker, CtCBM6 concentration, and the selection of buffer solutions. The method was replicated on processed Eucalyptus fibres containing different xylan contents. Reproducible xylan counts and distributions across the secondary cell wall layers were obtained for unbleached and bleached Eucalyptus fibres. The xylan distribution pattern across the cell wall layers S1, S2 and S3 was similar, but the S1 and S3 layers contained after bleaching more xylan than the S2 layer. The technique has a wide range of applications in basic wood research as well as in the analysis of technological processes.
Serum α-klotho levels are not informative for the evaluation of growth hormone secretion in short children
Authors: Meazza Cristina , Elsedfy Heba H. , Khalaf Randa I. , Lupi Fiorenzo , Pagani Sara , Kholy Mohamed El , Tinelli Carmine , Radetti Giorgio , Bozzola Mauro
Published: September 2017

Background:

α-Klotho is a transmembrane protein that can be cleaved and act as a circulating hormone (s-klotho). s-Klotho serum levels seem to reflect growth hormone (GH) secretory status. We investigated the role of s-klotho as a reliable marker of GH secretion in short children and the factors influencing its secretion.

Methods:

We enrolled 40 short Egyptian children (20 GH deficiency [GHD] and 20 idiopathic short stature [ISS]). They underwent a pegvisomant-primed insulin tolerance test (ITT) and were accordingly reclassified as 16 GHD and 24 ISS. The samples obtained before and 3 days after pegvisomant administration, prior to the ITT, were used for assaying insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and s-klotho.

Results:

IGF-I and s-klotho serum levels were not significantly different (p=0.059 and p=0.212, respectively) between GHD and ISS. After pegvisomant, a significant reduction in IGF-I and s-klotho levels was found in both groups. s-Klotho significantly correlated only with IGF-I levels in both groups.

Conclusions:

s-Klotho mainly reflects the IGF-I status and cannot be considered a reliable biomarker for GH secretion in children.
Monte Finocchito and Heloros Pottery Production: New Evidence through Technological Studies and Material Analysis
Authors: Raudino Anna , Tykot Robert H. , Vianello Andrea
Published: September 2017

This paper discusses the use of non-destructive portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) to distinguish sources of variation in 8th Century BC Greek and Sicilian ceramics. The project comprises an element of my PhD study through La Trobe University, concerning Hellenic colonies established from the eighth century BC in the south of Italy, and on Sicily in particular. This specific case study looks at the relationships established between the indigenous site of Monte Finocchito and the Greek settlement of Heloros, both located in south-eastern Sicily. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the pXRF technique for detecting material variations which are not readily apparent using traditional visual analysis during fieldwork.
Modeling of the Time Structure of Construction Processes Using Neural Networks
Authors: Petlíková Kateřina , Jarský Čeněk
Published: September 2017

The aim of this research is to develop a methodology for calculating the standard time using neural networks. The paper presents research questions and proposes a methodology. In addition, the methods used to calculate the standard time in the Czech Republic and in other parts of the world are presented, and the basics of the mathematics of neural networks are shortly explained. The paper also provides an example that represents a simple application of a neural network. This example is designed to confirm some assumptions and to arrive at the basic conclusions regarding the operation of models created using neural networks.
General Concerns Life-Cycle Design of Economical Ice-Resistant Structures in the Bohai Sea
Authors: Zhang Da-yong , Yu Song-song , Yue Qian-jin
Published: September 2017

In China, the oil and natural gas resources of Bohai Bay are mainly marginal oil fields. It is necessary to build both iceresistant and economical offshore platforms. However, there are many risks during the life cycle of offshore platforms due to the imperfect preliminary design for the Bohai Sea economical ice-resistant structures. As a result, the whole life-cycle design should be considered, including plan, design, construction, management and maintenance design. Based on the demand of existing codes and research of the basic design, structural ice-resistant performance and the reasonable management and maintenance, the life-cycle design theory is discussed. It was concluded that the life-cycle cost-effective optimum design proposed will lead to a minimum risk.
Alter – Entwicklungspotenziale – Transzendenz: Gesellschaftlich gewandelte Sinnkonstruktionen des Alters als Grundlage einer neuen Spiritualität?
Authors: Remmers Hartmut
Published: September 2017

Das Alter ist eine historisch variable Gestalt des Lebens. Es ist durch Wandlungs- und auch Entwicklungsprozesse charakterisiert, die sich analytisch auf biologischer, psychologischer und soziologischer Ebene beschreiben lassen. In der Alternspsychologie werden geistig-seelische Wachstumsprozesse der Persönlichkeit konstatiert, die ein zunehmendes Bewusstsein der Generativität, das heißt der sinnvollen Situierung der eigenen Person in größeren gesellschaftlichen Lebenszusammenhängen anzeigen. Die Sichtweisen auf die eigene Person werden zum Beispiel im wachsenden Gefühl der Verbundenheit mit nachfolgenden Generationen überschritten. Mystische Dimensionen des Lebens in kosmischen Bezügen werden zunehmend adaptiert. Dieses Bewusstsein der Selbsttranszendenz kann als
Spiritualität bezeichnet werden. Psychologisch-verhaltenswissenschaftlich formulierte Gesetzmäßigkeiten aber werden verständlich erst im Kontext einer sich historisch wandelnden Kultur. Diese hat identitätsstiftende Bedeutung auch für ein gesellschaftlich zunehmendes Transzendenz-Bewusstsein, welche gleichsam als Korrelat einer zusehends kirchlicher Bindungen entbehrenden Religiosität verstanden werden kann.
Comparison of Biting Midges of the Early Eocene Cambay Amber (India) and Late Eocene European Ambers Supports the Independent Origin of European Ambers
Authors: Perkovsky E. E.
Published: September 2017

Of the three genera of Ceratopogoninae dominant in Late Eocene ambers of Europe, the two known are absent in the Early Eocene Cambay amber (India): the Holarctic genus Ceratopogon and the worldwide distributed genus Culicoides, known since the Late Cretaceous. Tropical biting midge genera (Meunierohelea and Leptoconops and genera with feminized male antennae: Camptopterohelea, Eohelea, and Gedanohelea) are abundantly represented in Cambay amber. The proportion of Ceratopogonini with feminized male antennae among all Ceratopogonidae dramatically increases from north to south: from 1.4-2.4 % in unbiased collections of Bitterfeld amber (Humboldt Museum collection) and Baltic amber (the Giecewicz collection) to 7 % in Danish amber and 12.7 % in Rovno amber; their proportion in Cambay amber is 17 %. The proportion of tropical specimens among specimens Ceratopogoninae in unbiased collections is 6.4 % in Baltic amber, 5.3 % in Bitterfeld amber, 21 % in Rovno and Danish amber, and 58 % in Cambay amber. Strong differences in the proportion of tropical components among Ceratopogoninae from different European ambers are in agreement with data on Cambay amber and so are indicative of origin of the European ambers under different climatic and hence geographic environments.
Challenges of annotation and analysis in computer-assisted language comparison: A case study on Burmish languages
Authors: Hill Nathan W. , List Johann-Mattis
Published: September 2017

The use of computational methods in comparative linguistics is growing in popularity. The increasing deployment of such methods draws into focus those areas in which they remain inadequate as well as those areas where classical approaches to language comparison are untransparent and inconsistent. In this paper we illustrate specific challenges which both computational and classical approaches encounter when studying South-East Asian languages. With the help of data from the Burmish language family we point to the challenges resulting from missing annotation standards and insufficient methods for analysis and we illustrate how to tackle these problems within a computer-assisted framework in which computational approaches are used to pre-analyse the data while linguists attend to the detailed analyses.
Relations of Shared and Unique Components of Personality and Psychosocial Functioning to Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Vittengl Jeffrey R. , Clark Lee Anna , Thase Michael E. , Jarrett Robin B.
Published: September 2017

Consistent with theories of depression, several personality (e.g., high neuroticism, low extraversion) and psychosocial (e.g., interpersonal problems, cognitive content) variables predict depressive symptoms substantively. In this extended replication, we clarified whether 13 theoretically relevant personality and psychosocial variables were unique versus overlapping predictors of symptoms among 351 adult outpatients with recurrent major depressive disorder who received acute-phase cognitive therapy (CT). Using factor analysis and regression methods, we partitioned the measures’ variance into general components common across the two types of measures (psychosocial and personality), within-type components shared only with other measures of the same type, and scale-specific components. From early to late in CT, and from late in CT through 8 months after response, the general components were the strongest (median r = .23)—and scale-specific components the weakest (median r = .01)—forward predictors of symptoms. We discuss implications for measurement and treatment of depression.
Adaptation of Thalamic Neurons Provides Information about the Spatiotemporal Context of Stimulus History
Authors: Liu Chen , Foffani Guglielmo , Scaglione Alessandro , Aguilar Juan , Moxon Karen A.
Published: September 2017

Adaptation of neural responses due to the history of sensory input has been observed across all sensory modalities. However, the computational role of adaptation is not fully understood, especially when one considers neural coding problems in which adaptation increases the ambiguity of the neural responses to simple stimuli. To address this, we quantified the impact of adaptation on the information conveyed by thalamic neurons about paired whisker stimuli in male rat. At the single neuron level, although paired-pulse adaptation reduces the information about the present stimulus, the information per spike increases. Moreover, the adapted response can convey significant amounts of information about whether, when and where a previous stimulus occurred. At the population level, ambiguity of the adapted responses about the present stimulus can be compensated for by large numbers of neurons. Therefore, paired-pulse adaptation does not reduce the discriminability of simple stimuli. It provides information about the spatiotemporal context of stimulus history.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe present work provides a computational framework that demonstrates how adaptation allows neurons to encode spatiotemporal dynamics of stimulus history.
Chromosome 15 structural abnormalities: effect on IGF1R gene expression and function
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Mattina Teresa , Condorelli Rosita A , Mongioì Laura M , Pandini Giuseppe , La Vignera Sandro , Calogero Aldo E
Published: September 2017

Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), mapping on the 15q26.3 chromosome, is required for normal embryonic and postnatal growth. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the IGF1R gene expression and function in three unrelated patients with chromosome 15 structural abnormalities. We report two male patients with the smallest 15q26.3 chromosome duplication described so far, and a female patient with ring chromosome 15 syndrome. Patient one, with a 568 kb pure duplication, had overgrowth, developmental delay, mental and psychomotor retardation, obesity, cryptorchidism, borderline low testis volume, severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and gynecomastia. We found a 1.8-fold increase in the IGF1R mRNA and a 1.3-fold increase in the IGF1R protein expression (P < 0.05). Patient two, with a 650 kb impure duplication, showed overgrowth, developmental delay, mild mental retardation, precocious puberty, low testicular volume and severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. The IGF1R mRNA and protein expression was similar to that of the control. Patient three, with a 46,XX r(15) (p10q26.2) karyotype, displayed intrauterine growth retardation, developmental delay, mental and psychomotor retardation. We found a <0.5-fold decrease in the IGF1R mRNA expression and an undetectable IGF1R activity. After reviewing the previously 96 published cases of chromosome 15q duplication, we found that neurological disorders, congenital cardiac defects, typical facial traits and gonadal abnormalities are the prominent features in patients with chromosome 15q duplication. Interestingly, patients with 15q deletion syndrome display similar features. We speculate that both the increased and decreased IGF1R gene expression may play a role in the etiology of neurological and gonadal disorders.
Investigating the association of rs2910164 with cancer predisposition in an Irish cohort
Authors: McVeigh T P , Mulligan R J , McVeigh U M , Owens P W , Miller N , Bell M , Sebag F , Guerin C , Quill D S , Weidhaas J B , Kerin M J , Lowery A J
Published: September 2017

Introduction

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules that exert post-transcriptional effects on gene expression by binding with cis-regulatory regions in target messenger RNA (mRNA). Polymorphisms in genes encoding miRNAs or in miRNA–mRNA binding sites confer deleterious epigenetic effects on cancer risk. miR-146a has a role in inflammation and may have a role as a tumour suppressor. The polymorphism rs2910164 in the MIR146A gene encoding pre-miR-146a has been implicated in several inflammatory pathologies, including cancers of the breast and thyroid, although evidence for the associations has been conflicting in different populations. We aimed to further investigate the association of this variant with these two cancers in an Irish cohort.

Methods

The study group comprised patients with breast cancer (BC), patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and unaffected controls. Germline DNA was extracted from blood or from saliva collected using the DNA Genotek Oragene 575 collection kit, using crystallisation precipitation, and genotyped using TaqMan-based PCR. Data were analysed using SPSS, v22.

Results

The total study group included 1516 participants. This comprised 1386 Irish participants; 724 unaffected individuals (controls), 523 patients with breast cancer (BC), 136 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and three patients with dual primary breast and thyroid cancer. An additional cohort of 130 patients with DTC from the South of France was also genotyped for the variant. The variant was detected with a minor allele frequency (MAF) of 0.19 in controls, 0.22 in BC and 0.27 and 0.26 in DTC cases from Ireland and France, respectively. The variant was not significantly associated with BC (per allele odds ratio = 1.20 (0.98–1.46), P = 0.07), but was associated with DTC in Irish patients (per allele OR = 1.59 (1.18–2.14), P = 0.002).

Conclusion

The rs2910164 variant in MIR146A is significantly associated with DTC, but is not significantly associated with BC in this cohort.
ISO 14000 Y LA GESTIÓN MEDIO AMBIENTAL
Authors: Saavedra Rasso Ladislao
Published: September 2017

ISO 14000 es un conjunto de Normas Internacionales de carácter voluntario, orientadas hacia la gestión efectiva del medio ambiente en las organizaciones. Implica el desarrollo de requisitos concretos de los Sistemas de Gestión Ambiental, la Auditoría Ambiental, el Eco­ Etiquetado y el ciclo de vida de Productos, Servicios y Procesos dentro de las aspiraciones de las Organizaciones.
Elementary Education Majors’ Stories About Math: An Analysis of Students’ Mathematics Autobiographies
Authors:   University of Minnesota Duluth, USA, Wilson Janelle L. , Latterell Carmen M. ,   University of Minnesota Duluth, USA
Published: September 2017

This paper analyzes 52 preservice elementary education majors’ mathematical autobiographies. Participants wrote about their previous experiences with mathematics. Three themes emerged:

My previous teachers have played a significant role in the formation of my mathematical identity.
I want to help my future students understand, enjoy, and appreciate mathematics. And
Mathematics has its ups and downs. Although directed to define mathematics, many participants did not do so. The remaining participants described mathematics as needed for everyday life, as problem solving, or as a study.
Teaching Peace along with routine education: A simple and easy to implement strategy for a peaceful happy world
Authors:   University of Mumbai, Mumbai, India and Ross University School of Medicine, Portsmouth, Dominica., Shah Shilpa , Meisenberg Gerhard ,   Ross University School of Medicine, Portsmouth, Dominica.
Published: September 2017

In this paper the authors propose ways of implementing peace education and integrating it in the routine curriculum. Unlike the teaching of academic and vocational skills, which are based on the transmission of knowledge and skills alone, peace education is based on understanding of human motives and, above all, on example. The key individuals in the effort of peace education are teachers in primary, secondary and higher education, and the point at which peace education has to start is in the training of future teachers. Peace education has to communicate both values supportive of peace and non-violence, and the reasoning and interpersonal skills required for non-violent conflict resolution. Rather than introducing formal instruction in "peace science", teachers may find it more effective to introduce the subject informally with examples that illustrate the value of non-violence, and examples of the ways in which violent conflict can be avoided or resolved. Herein, it is emphasized that peace education can be introduced effectively by merging it with the existing education system. The current paper outlines the concept for introducing peace education and provides an implementation strategy, contributes unique methods, and offers novel suggestions regarding its why, where and how.
Validation of a Novel Assay to Distinguish Bacterial and Viral Infections
Authors: Srugo Isaac , Klein Adi , Stein Michal , Golan-Shany Orit , Kerem Nogah , Chistyakov Irina , Genizi Jacob , Glazer Oded , Yaniv Liat , German Alina , Miron Dan , Shachor-Meyouhas Yael , Bamberger Ellen , Oved Kfir , Gottlieb Tanya M. , Navon Roy , Paz Meital , Etshtein Liat , Boico Olga , Kronenfeld Gali , Eden Eran , Cohen Robert , Chappuy Helène , Angoulvant François , Lacroix Laurence , Gervaix Alain
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND:

Reliably distinguishing bacterial from viral infections is often challenging, leading to antibiotic misuse. A novel assay that integrates measurements of blood-borne host-proteins (tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand, interferon γ-induced protein-10, and C-reactive protein [CRP]) was developed to assist in differentiation between bacterial and viral disease.

METHODS:

We performed double-blind, multicenter assay evaluation using serum remnants collected at 5 pediatric emergency departments and 2 wards from children ≥3 months to ≤18 years without (n = 68) and with (n = 529) suspicion of acute infection. Infectious cohort inclusion criteria were fever ≥38°C and symptom duration ≤7 days. The reference standard diagnosis was based on predetermined criteria plus adjudication by experts blinded to assay results. Assay performers were blinded to the reference standard. Assay cutoffs were predefined.

RESULTS:

Of 529 potentially eligible patients with suspected acute infection, 100 did not fulfill infectious inclusion criteria and 68 had insufficient serum. The resulting cohort included 361 patients, with 239 viral, 68 bacterial, and 54 indeterminate reference standard diagnoses. The assay distinguished between bacterial and viral patients with 93.8% sensitivity (95% confidence interval: 87.8%–99.8%) and 89.8% specificity (85.6%–94.0%); 11.7% had an equivocal assay outcome. The assay outperformed CRP (cutoff 40 mg/L; sensitivity 88.2% [80.4%–96.1%], specificity 73.2% [67.6%–78.9%]) and procalcitonin testing (cutoff 0.5 ng/mL; sensitivity 63.1% [51.0%–75.1%], specificity 82.3% [77.1%–87.5%]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Double-blinded evaluation confirmed high assay performance in febrile children. Assay was significantly more accurate than CRP, procalcitonin, and routine laboratory parameters. Additional studies are warranted to support its potential to improve antimicrobial treatment decisions.
Evaluation of local and supralocal roles of parks in the urban spatial setting: a case study of central park in Olsztyn
Authors: Szafranko Elżbieta
Published: September 2017

Green areas, increasingly often designed among buildings, play an important role in any ag�glomeration. Parks can performvarious functions. Most often, they serve as greenery, which
seems to be in an acute shortage in urbanised areas. In addition, parks inscribe themselves into
transportation networks, including footpaths, bikeways and streets. They can be used as venues
for cultural or artistic events, but also as recreational and educational areas. The influence of
adopted solutions can have a broader or narrower scope. When making a decision to implement
a particular solution, it is advisable to analyse various aspects of a planned investment project.
This paper presents an approach to the evaluation of the role of parks in urban settings.
Cycle paths design based on aerial laser scan data
Authors: Bacior Stanisław , Gniadek Jacek , Piech Izabela , Stachowicz Joanna
Published: September 2017

Development of cycle routes in Poland is a frequently discussed topic. This type of infrastructure
may be designed using a variety of methods. Manual planning of new cycle paths based on aerial
laser scan data is relatively quick and also precise. The ALS technique can provide the required
accuracy of design map in terms of elevation measurements. It is worth noting that only a few
years ago studies indicated that elevation measurements were less accurate when using this par-
ticular technique [Hejmanowska, Warchoł 2010]. The designer has a detailed insight into the
studied area. He may easily assess the terrain and choose the optimal location for the given
object. Planning the route course and its elevation variability is simple when using a Digital
Terrain Model.
The first stage of the present study analyses the rules that apply to bicycle route design and the
area covered by the study. The course of the new cycle path was planned in such a way as to con-
nect the most important places in towns as well as places of tourist interest. The resultant route
is 1.8 km long and runs along the main road. Development of DTM and its visualizations were
performed mainly on the basis of two point clouds provided by the Geodetic and Cartographic
Documentation Center. The initial works were performed in MicroStation PowerDraft V8i soft-
ware. In the next stage, a 3D visualization of the model was generated with the use of Surfer 11
program. Based on that, a longitudinal profile of the route was created.
Analysis of multitemporal changes in the environment using GIS and remote sensing in the aspect of construcion projects
Authors: Głowienka Ewa , Hejmanowska Beata , Michałowska Krystyna , Pękala Agnieszka
Published: September 2017

Modern changes of environment are the result of many factors, of which anthropogenic ac-
tivities and the development of infrastructure play the leading role in environmental, morpho-
metric changes. The dynamics of expansion of construction lands, which until recently have
changed only as a result of natural factors, makes it invariably important to analyse time changes
and forecast potential effects of construction projects on the environment. A good source of
information about changes, for example the course of rivers, hydrological conditions, diversity
of vegetation in the areas of investment, are cartographic sources, in particular GIS techniques,
satellite images, and aerial photographs. Proper assessing of the territory using GIS techniques
may allow constructing roads not only with less damage to the environment and human health,
but also avoiding technical problems, such as low bearing capacity of soils.
The main objective of the study is to evaluate multitemporal changes of the environment in the
course of the ongoing construction project, which is the construction of the A4 motorway in its
Rzeszów Wschód – Jarosław Zachód section, in the area of the Wierzbna junction. The analysis
was carried out on the basis of Landsat satellite images recorded in two different investment
periods of the tested object: in 2006 – prior to the start of construction works, in 2015 – in the
course of the ongoing construction works.
In addition, the analysis of the obtained Landsat multitemporal satellite images made it possible
to examine the morphology of the substrate conditions of river valleys of the San, Wislok, and
Mleczka.
Classification of forests in the Precarpathian region using QuickBird-2 high resolution satellite image
Authors: Babushka Andriy , Burshtynska Khrystyna , Denys Yuliya
Published: September 2017

Based on the study of literature on the classification of forests using high resolution space images
it was established that the separation of classes and classes close to the spectral brightness can
not be identified with high accuracy. Classification using maximum likelihood algorithm, which
generally gives better results compared with algorithms of spectral distance or Mahalanobis
distance, does not lead to the definition of areas with a high probability. Therefore, the article
examines a method of forest classification by post-processing. Experimental studies were car-
ried out using an satellite image of the forested area of the Precarpathian region, obtained from
QuickBird-2 (June 2010). Data collected during field research were used as verification data
to determine areas of different objects. The controlled classification has been performed using
the method of the maximum likelihood, size of signatures for 8 classes were selected from 100
to 400 points. For these classes a matrix of classes separation was calculated, and a significant
correlation between next classes was found: young conifer plantings and pine and mixed forest,
and deciduous young plantings and deciduous forest. Post-processing significantly improves
the reliability of determination of area, and the procedure consists in assigning to all pixel of the
selected neighbourhood brightness of most points, although reliability of determination of area
depends on the size of the area. Accuracy of determination of areas are from 92 to 99%.
The effect of changes in the socio-economic development of the Podhale region
Authors: Godlewska-Dzioboń Bianka , Włodarczyk Robert Wojciech
Published: September 2017

The quantitative and qualitative dimension of infrastructure determines the pace and level of
socio-economic development. Infrastructure investments are of a technical nature, social or in�stitutional. Elements of infrastructure identify the possibilities of developing economic initia�tives and attracting external capital, modernizing production growth, including agriculture, liv�ing conditions of its inhabitants, and shaping the multifunctional and sustainable development
of counties.
The principal purpose of the article is to present a level of technical and social infrastructure
development in the districts of Nowy Targ and Tatry, and the evaluation of their impact on the
social, and economic development of the Podhale region.
This article presents the literature review, research methodology, socio-economic situation of
Podhale, as well as results of empirical analysis on infrastructure potential and impact on the
social and economic development of the Podhale region.
EMULSION LIQUID MEMBRANE EXTRACTION OF Zr AND Hf FROM ACID NITRIC USING EXTRACTANT TOPO
Authors: Basuki Kris Tri , Sudibyo Sudibyo
Published: September 2017

EKSTRAKSI EMULSI MEMBRANE CAIR Zr dan HF DALAM LARUTAN ASAM NITRAT DENGAN EKSTRAKTAN TOPO. Telah dilakukan ekstraksi larutan Zr yang mengandung Hf menggunakan  extraktan TOPO. Sebagai fasa air digunakan larutan campuran ZrO(NO3)2 dan HfO(NO3)2 yang mengandung Zr 10 gr/L dan Hf 500 mg/L, sedangkan ekstraktan atau fasa organik adalah TOPO dengan variasi konsentrasi yang diencerkan dengan kerosen. Emulgator Span-80 digunakan untuk membuat membuat larutan membrane emulsi.Fasa internal yang digunakan adalah asam nitrat 3M dan fasa eksternal yang digunakan adalah asam fosfat 5M. Parameter yang diteliti yaitu konsentrasi ekstraktan, kecepatan pengadukan, waktu pengadukan, dan perbandingan fasa internal dan fasa eksternal. Untuk analisis Zr dan Hf digunakan metode X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). Dari hasil optimasi proses ekstraksi Zr dan Hf dengan membran emulsi  dengan menggunakan ekstraktan TOPO diperoleh kesimpulan sebagai berikut: waktu pembuatan fasa membran adalah dengan kecepatan pengadukan 8000 rpm, konsentrasi TOPO 5% dalam kerosen, konsentrasi internal asam nitrat 3M, konsentrasi asam fosfat 5M, waktu ekstraksi pengadukan 10 menit dengan kecepatan pengadukan tetap 500 rpm , dan perbandingan fasa membran dan fasa eksternal 1 : 1. Pada kondisi ini diperoleh faktor pisah (FP) Zr-Hf = 17,39.
STUDI PERPINDAHAN KALOR KONVEKSI PAKSA NANOFLUIDA AIR-ZrO2 DALAM SUB-BULUH VERTIKAL SEGIEMPAT
Authors: Kamajaya Ketut , Umar Efrizon
Published: September 2017

Studi perpindahan kalor KONVEKSI PAKSA nanofluida air-ZrO2 dalam sub-buluh vertiKal segiempat. Saat ini sedang berkembang pemikiran oleh para peneliti tentang pemanfaatan nanofluida sebagai pendingin alternatif, selain menggunakan air. Oleh karena itu, studi ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui karaktersitik sifat termofisika dari nanofluida air-ZrO2 pada aliran konveksi paksa. Analisis numerik tiga dimensi digunakan dalam optimalisasi perancangan perangkat uji berupa alat uji sub-buluh vertikal segiempat, sedangkan data eksperimental yang diperoleh dalam eksperimen digunakan untuk menentukan besarnya koefisien perpindahan kalor dari pemanas ke fluida pendingin nanofluida air-ZrO2. Hasil penelitian ini dibandingkan dengan mengunakan fluida-dasar atau air murni sebagai fluida kerja. Peralatan yang digunakan dalam percobaan ini adalah sub-buluh vertikal segiempat, dilengkapi dengan sistem pendingin primer, penukar kalor dan sistem pendingin sekunder. Sebagai sumber pemanas digunakan empat silinder vertikal yang memiliki fluks kalor yang seragam dengan ukuran masing-masing pemanas yaitu panjang 350 mm, diameter 25,4 mm dan rasio jarak antarpusat terhadap diameter (P/D) 1,16. Perpindahan kalor dari pemanasan ke pendingin terjadi secara konveksi paksa. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa nanofluida air-ZrO2 dengan konsentrasi sebesar 0,10 % dalam persen berat mempunyai koefisien perpindahan kalor 20% lebih besar dari koefisien perpindahan kalor dengan menggunakan air-murni sebagai pendingin.
Infrastructures of Dis/Connection: Of Drones, Migration, and Digital Care
Authors: Light Evan , Bacas Jutta Lauth , Dragona Daphne , Kämpf Katrin M. , Peirano Marta , Pelizzer Valentina , Rogers Christina , Sprenger Florian , Rowan Jaron , Deng Abiol Lual
Published: September 2017

Abstract | Migration from sub-Saharan Africa to Northern Europe is imagined and visualized as the movement of human bodies along different territories, eventually traversing the geographically locatable line of the EU border. What this conceptualization of migration, mobility, and the border leaves unacknowledged is that all three are material-virtual phenomena. This paper addresses the infrastructures of mobility that can be traced and analyzed within a migrant route from Niger to Germany. We highlight the need to connect and/or disconnect as strategies of migration and envisage ways to support freedom of movement by bringing aspects of digital care work into the analysis.Résumé | La migration de l’Afrique subsaharienne vers l’Europe du Nord est imaginée et visualisée comme le mouvement des corps sur différents territoires, traversant éventuellement la ligne géographiquement localisable de la frontière de l’UE. Ce que cette conceptualisation de la migration, de la mobilité et de la frontière ne reconnaît pas, c’est que les trois sont des phénomènes matériels et virtuels. Cet article aborde les infrastructures de mobilité qui peuvent remontées et être analysées au sein d’une route migrante allant du Niger à l’Allemagne. Nous soulignons la nécessité de se connecter et/ou de se déconnecter en tant que stratégies de migration et envisageons des moyens d’appuyer la liberté de circulation en intégrant des aspects du travail en soins numériques dans l’analyse.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring Adoption in the United Kingdom – An Economic and Policy Perspective
Authors: Oliver Nick ,   Section of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College, London, UK
Published: September 2017

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology provides real-time glucose concentration data to people with diabetes. The data enable timely treatment decisions that can lead to avoidance or mitigation of hypoglycaemia, with potential cost savings. This commentary discusses CGM implementation and funding policies in the UK, and regional disparities that confront many people with diabetes who could benefit from the technology.