bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Open versus Arthroscopic Surgical Technique Affect the Union Rate of Tibiotalar Arthrodesis?
Authors: Neumann Julie , Weinberg Maxwell , Saltzman Charles , Barg Alexej
Published: September 2018

Category:

Arthroscopy

Introduction/Purpose:

To date, there are only a handful of studies directly comparing outcomes of open versus arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis. Major limitations of these studies are small patient cohorts, lack of long-term follow-up, lack of assessment pre-operative patient demographics and imaging, and post-operatively evaluation of clinical outcomes but not union rates. The purpose of this clinical study is to compare the rate of union in ankle fusions in patients that underwent open arthrodesis to those that underwent arthroscopic arthrodesis. The hypothesis of this study was that there would be no difference in union rate in patients that underwent open versus arthroscopic arthrodesis.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of 521 consecutive patients from October 2002 to April 2016. One hundred twenty-five ankles from 121 patients met inclusion criteria. These patients underwent primary tibiotalar arthrodesis without the use of autograft. Fifty-nine patients underwent open tibiotalar arthrodesis and 66 patients underwent arthroscopic tibiotalar arthrodesis. Age, gender, body mass index, smoking, and preoperative radiographic deformity were controlled. The primary outcome measure was union rate of tibiotalar arthrodesis. Secondary outcome measures were time to union, rate of wound complications, rate of return to operating room, and rate of development of post-operative deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Results:

One hundred twenty-one patients (125 ankles) were available for final follow-up. Average age of the patients was 55.3 +/- 17.2 years. Mean follow-up time was 35.4 months. Unions were assessed on routine post-operative radiographs. If there was a concern for nonunion, computerized tomography scan was utilized for further assessment. Nonunion rate of patients who had open surgery was 10/59 (17%) and nonunion rate of those who had arthroscopic surgery was 13/66 (20%) (p=0.69) [Table 1]. There was a statistically significant difference between those who had open versus arthroscopic surgery in wound complication rate (39% vs 6%, p=<0.001) and DVT rate (7% vs 0%, p=0.047). There was no statistically significant difference in rate of return to the operating room. No major complications occurred in this study.

Conclusion:

This study is the largest study to directly compare union rate and complications in patients who had open versus arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis. In this study, no significant association was found between surgical technique and union rate in patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis. Additionally, use of the arthroscopic technique has significantly lower rates of wound complication and post-operative DVTs.
Matrix-associated Stem Cell Transplantation (MAST) in Chondral Lesions at the Ankle as Part of a Complex Surgical Approach
Authors: Richter Martinus , Zech Stefan
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

The aim of the study was to assess the 5-year-follow-up after matrix-associated stem cell transplantation (MAST) in chondral lesions at the ankle as part of a complex surgical approach.

Methods:

In a prospective consecutive non-controlled clinical follow-up study, all patients with chondral defect that were treated with MAST from April1 2009 to September 30, 2011 were analyzed. Size and location of the chondral defects and the Visual-Analogue-Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS FA) before treatment and at follow-up were analysed. Stem cell-rich blood was harvested during the procedure from the ipsilateral pelvic bone marrow with a Jamshidi needle (10 x 3 mm, Cardinal, Dublin, OH, USA) and a special syringe (Arthrex-ACP, Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) through a stab incision. The syringe was centrifuged (10 minutes, 1,500 rotations per minute). The supernatant was used to impregnate a collagen I/III matrix (Chondro-Gide, Geistlich, Wollhusen, Switzerland) that was cut to the size of the cartilage defect roughly before and definitely after. The matrix with stem cells was fixed into the chondral defect with fibrin glue (Tissucoll, Deerfield, IL, USA).

Results:

Sixty-six patients with 69 chondral defects were included in the study. The age of the patients was 35 years on average (range, 12-64 years). VAS FA before surgery was 48.9 on average (range, 16.5-75.9). The defects were located as follows, medial talar shoulder, n=28; lateral talar shoulder, n=28 (medial and lateral talar shoulder, n=3), tibia, n=3. The defect size was 1.4 cm2 on average (range, .6 - 6 cm2). 60 patients (91%) completed 5-year-follow-up. No patient was converted to fusion or total ankle replacement. The VAS FA improved to an average of 78.2 (range, 60.8-100; p=.01).

Conclusion:

MAST as part of a complex surgical approach led to improved and high validated outcome scores in the mid-term-follow-up. No method related complications were registered. Even though a control group is missing, we conclude that MAST as part of a complex surgical approach is an effective method for the treatment of chondral lesions of the ankle for at least five years.
Objectifying the Assessment of Pain
Authors: Strauss Michael , Strauss Wendy
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Pain is a pervasive problem that accounts for a high percentage of referrals to health care providers including foot and ankle surgeons and is an important factor in narcotic addictions and their related deaths. Unfortunately, the analogue pain scores are determined by subjective (SUB) responses of the patient and fail to utilize objective criteria for making the assessments. In an attempt to resolve the subjectivity/objectivity concerns, we developed a scoring system that uses objective (OBJ) criteria based on three 0-to-10 scales. The measurements include the patients’ requirements for analgesics, how the pain affects their levels of activity and how it affects their thought processes.

Methods:

Over an 18 month period and as part of a physician pain management group’s initial assessment of their patients, the study group was asked to rate their pain using the three SUB scales (Numerical Rating Scale, Visual Analogue Scale and Verbal Rating Scale) as well as our three OBJ scales. Each of our three OBJ (analgesics, activities and thought processes) scales used precise terms to quantify the numerical value for the scale. For example, the analgesics requirement ranged from no drug (0-points) to requirement for hospitalization for pain management (10-points). The activity scale ranged from no limitations (0-points) to pain noticed only with activity (4-points) to total limitation of activities (10-points). Analogous objective criteria were used for the third scale, how pain affects thought processes. Data analysis included patients’ responses to the objective pain measurements as well as correlations between OBJ and SUB evaluation scoring systems.

Results:

Data was collected prospectively on 109 patients. The mean scores (summation of the3 SUB pain scales divided by 3 and doing likewise for the OBJ pain scales was significantly higher for the SUB scores (6.4 vs. 4.2, p < 0.001). The lowest correlations between the SUB scores and each OBJ scale was with analgesic use (r = .36 vs. r’s = .53 for the other 2 OBJ scales). In general patients who scored highest on the SUB scores, preferred them to the OBJ measurements. Differences between the scores on the OBJ activity scale versus the OBJ thought processes scale helped distinguish pain of central versus peripheral origins. Ninety percent of patients completed the SUB plus OBJ scoring in less than 3 minutes.

Conclusion:

Our OBJ Pain Score helped differentiate those patients who magnified their pain symptom from those who did not. Patients with higher scores on the thought processes scale would appear to be best managed by central nervous system acting drugs. Conversely those with higher OBJ activity scores would likely respond to peripheral acting agents such as non-steroidal analgesics, local injections or analgesic patches. In summary, our scoring system moves the evaluation of pain from subjective to objective. This has important ramifications for pain management, analgesic selection and avoidance of narcotic dependency.
Hallux Interphalangeal Arthrodesis Following First Metatarsophalangeal Arthrodesis
Authors: Thitiboonsuwan Songwut , Kavolus Joseph , Nunley James
Published: September 2018

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

Hallux interphalangeal (IP) arthritis can occur after first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis. IP Arthrodesis is a standard treatment, but in the setting of prior MTP surgery there will be increased stress on the IP joint and decrease local blood supply. These may result in diminished potential for bone healing. This investigation seeks to assess the outcomes of hallux IP arthrodesis after first MTP arthrodesis.

Methods:

Charts were retrospectively reviewed for patients who underwent interphalangeal arthrodesis between 1/1/2007 and 4/3/2017 and who had a minimum of 12-weeks of follow-up. We compared patients with and without prior ipsilateral first MTP arthrodesis. Charts were reviewed for clinical and radiographic union. Outcomes of interest were nonunion, complications, time to union and speed of union. Statistical data were analyzed by multivariable regression.

Results:

There were 42 patients whose median follow-up was nine (range, 3-135) months. Median time from previous first MTP arthrodesis until IP arthrodesis was 54 months. Six nonunions (35.3%) occurred in 17 patients with prior first MTP arthrodesis. Only two nonunions (8.0%) occurred in 25 patients with isolated IP arthrodesis. The multivariable risk difference of nonunion was 53.3% (P = .001). Prior first MTP arthrodesis also was more likely to have complications (52.9% vs. 24.0%, respectively). The multivariable risk difference of complications was 35.7% (P = .082). The speed of bone healing was statistically significant, with a multivariable rate ratio of 0.21 (P = .012).

Conclusion:

Prior first MTP arthrodesis resulted in 4.8 times slower bone healing for IP arthrodesis. The numbers needed to harm was two patients for nonunion and three patients for any complication.
Stage-specific roles for Zmiz1 in Notch-dependent steps of early T-cell development
Authors: Wang Qing , Yan Ran , Pinnell Nancy , McCarter Anna C. , Oh Yeonjoo , Liu Yiran , Sha Cher , Garber Noah F. , Chen Yitong , Wu Qingqing , Ku Chia-Jui , Tran Ivy , Serna Alarcon Amparo , Kuick Rork , Engel James Douglas , Maillard Ivan , Cierpicki Tomasz , Chiang Mark Y.
Published: September 2018

Key Points

Notch1 cofactor Zmiz1 induces a subset of Notch target genes and drives pre–T-cell proliferation during normal and stress thymopoiesis. Disrupting the Zmiz1-Notch1 protein-protein interaction impairs Myc induction, pre–T-cell expansion, and leukemic proliferation.
Seismic Risk Assessment of an Emergency Department of a Chilean Hospital Using a Patient-Oriented Performance Model
Authors: Favier Philomène , Poulos Alan , Vásquez Jorge Andrés , Aguirre Paula , de la Llera Juan Carlos
Published: September 2018

After an earthquake, hospital emergency departments need to provide continuous health care services to respond to the eventual sudden increase in injured people. The service performance of an emergency department is influenced by internal factors, such as physical damage and staff availability, and external factors, such as an increased patient arrival rate and disruptions in its supply chain. This research presents a quantification methodology for the performance of the emergency department. The novelty of the proposed approach lies in the explicit integration of the inelastic structural and nonstructural response of the building and damage with its loss of functionality, downtime, and emergency patient treatment rate. A discrete event simulation model is used to model the flow of patients within the different units of the emergency department. The seismic risk is expressed as return periods of exceeding different levels of patient waiting times. Results show that 1,000 and 30,000 accumulated waiting hours correspond to return periods of 100 and 1,000 years, respectively. It is concluded that this model may contribute to improving the risk management of critical emergency department infrastructure.
Functional redundancy of Frizzled 3 and Frizzled 6 in planar cell polarity control of mouse hair follicles
Authors: Dong Bo , Vold Samantha , Olvera-Jaramillo Cristina , Chang Hao
Published: September 2018

The orientation of mouse hair follicles is controlled by the planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway. Mutations in PCP genes result in two categories of hair misorientation phenotype, randomly oriented and vertically oriented to the skin surface. Here we demonstrate that the randomly oriented hair phenotype in Frizzled 6 (Fzd6) is a partial loss of the polarity, due to the functional redundancy of another closely related Frizzled gene, Fzd3. Double knockout of Fzd3 and Fzd6 globally, or only in the skin, lead to vertically oriented hair follicles and a total loss of anterior-posterior polarity. Furthermore, we provide evidence that, contrary to the prevailing model, asymmetric localization of the Fzd6 protein is not observed in skin epithelial cells. Through transcriptome analyses and in vitro studies, we show collagen triple helix repeat containing 1 (Cthrc1) as a potential downstream effector of Fzd6, but not Fzd3. Cthrc1 binds directly to the extracellular domains of Fzd3 and Fzd6 to enhance the Wnt/PCP signaling. These results suggest that Fzd3 and Fzd6 play a redundant role in controlling the polarity of developing skin, but through non-identical mechanisms.
Autophagy-dependent cell death – where, how and why a cell eats itself to death
Authors: Bialik Shani , Dasari Santosh K. , Kimchi Adi
Published: September 2018

Autophagy as a means of cell killing was first advanced by Clark's phenotypic description of ‘Type II autophagic cell death’ in 1990. However, this phenomenon later came into question, because the presence of autophagosomes in dying cells does not necessarily signify that autophagy is the cause of demise, but rather may reflect the efforts of the cell to prevent it. Resolution of this issue comes from a more careful definition of autophagy-dependent cell death (ADCD) as a regulated cell death that is shown experimentally to require different components of the autophagy machinery without involvement of alternative cell death pathways. Following these strict criteria, ADCD has been validated in both lower model organisms and mammalian cells, highlighting its importance for developmental and pathophysiological cell death. Recently, researchers have defined additional morphological criteria that characterize ADCD and begun to explore how the established, well-studied autophagy pathway is subverted from a survival to a death function. This Review explores validated models of ADCD and focuses on the current understanding of the mechanisms by which autophagy can kill a cell.
RPGRIP1L helps to establish the ciliary gate for entry of proteins
Authors: Lin Huawen , Guo Suyang , Dutcher Susan K.
Published: September 2018

Mutations in transition zone genes change the composition of the ciliary proteome. We isolated new mutations in RPGRIP1L (denotated as RPG1 in algae) that affect the localization of the transition zone protein NPHP4 in the model organism Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. NPHP4 localization is not affected in multiple new intraflagellar transport (IFT) mutants. We compared the proteome of cilia from wild-type and mutants that affect the transition zone (RPGRIP1L) or IFT (IFT172 and DHC1b) by mass spectrometry. The rpg1-1 mutant cilia show the most dramatic increase in cytoplasmic proteins. These nonciliary proteins function in translation, membrane remodeling, ATP production and as chaperonins. These proteins are excluded in isolated cilia from fla11-1 (IFT172) and fla24-1 (DHC1b). Our data support the idea that RPGRIP1L, but not IFT proteins, acts as part of the gate for cytoplasmic proteins. The rpg1-1 cilia lack only a few proteins, which suggests that RPGRIP1L only has a minor role of in the retention of ciliary proteins. The fla11-1 mutant shows the greatest loss/reduction of proteins, and one-third of these proteins have a transmembrane domain. Hence, IFT172 may play a role in the retention of proteins.
Adhesive performance of tropical arboreal ants varies with substrate temperature
Authors: Stark Alyssa Y. , Arstingstall Katherine , Yanoviak Stephen P.
Published: September 2018

The surface temperature of tree branches in the tropical rainforest canopy can reach up to 55°C. Ants and other small cursorial organisms must maintain adequate attachment in this extreme microenvironment to forage effectively and prevent falling. Ant adhesion depends on liquid secretions that should become less viscous at high temperatures, causing ants to slip. However, tropical arboreal ants have high thermal tolerance and actively forage on hot canopy surfaces, suggesting that these ants can maintain adhesion on hot substrates. We measured tarsal pad shear adhesion of 580 workers, representing 11 species and four subfamilies, of tropical arboreal ants at temperatures spanning the range of temperatures observed in the field (23-55°C). Adhesive performance among species showed three general trends: 1) a linear decrease with increasing temperature, 2) a nonlinear relationship with peak adhesive performance at ca. 30-40°C, and 3) no relationship with temperature. The mechanism responsible for these large interspecific differences remains to be determined, but likely reflects variation in the composition of the secreted adhesive fluid. Understanding such differences will reveal the diverse ways that ants cope with highly variable, and often unpredictable, thermal conditions in the forest canopy.
Neuromechanical coupling within the human triceps surae and its consequence on individual force sharing strategies
Authors: Crouzier Marion , Lacourpaille Lilian , Nordez Antoine , Tucker Kylie , Hug François
Published: September 2018

Little is known about the factors that influence the coordination of synergist muscles that act across the same joint, even during single-joint isometric tasks. The overall aim of this study was to determine the nature of the relationship between the distribution of activation and the distribution of force-generating capacity among the three heads of the triceps surae (soleus [SOL], gastrocnemius medialis [GM] and lateralis [GL]). Twenty volunteers performed isometric plantarflexions during which the activation of GM, GL and SOL was estimated using electromyography (EMG). Functional muscle physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) was estimated using imaging techniques and was considered as an index of muscle-force generating capacity. The distribution of activation and PCSA among the three muscles varied greatly between participants. A significant positive correlation between the distribution of activation and the distribution of PCSA was observed when considering the two bi-articular muscles at intensities ≤50% of the maximal contraction (0.51<r<0.62). Specifically, the greater the PCSA of GM compared with GL, the stronger bias of activation to the GM. There was no significant correlation between monoarticular and biarticular muscles. A higher contribution of GM activation compared with GL activation was associated with lower triceps surae activation (−0.66 <r<−0.42) and metabolic cost (−0.74<r<−0.52) for intensities ≥30% of the maximal contraction. Considered together, an imbalance of force between the three heads was observed, the magnitude of which varied greatly between participants. The origin and consequences of these individual force-sharing strategies remain to be determined.
Detection of noncalcified breast cancer in patients with extremely dense breasts using digital breast tomosynthesis compared with full-field digital mammography
Authors: Yi Ann , Chang Jung Min , Shin Sung Ui , Chu A Jung , Cho Nariya , Noh Dong-Young , Moon Woo Kyung
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the tumour visibility and diagnostic performance of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) in patients with noncalcified T  1 breast cancer.

Methods:

Medical records of 106 females with noncalcified T  1 invasive breast cancer who underwent DBT and full-field digital mammography (FFDM) between January 2012 and December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. To assess tumour visibility (score 1–3), all DBT and FFDM images were reviewed by two radiologists blinded to clinicopathological information. A reference standard was established by an unblinded consensus review of all images. Clinicopathological and imaging variables were analysed based on tumour visibility. After adding 159 negative controls, the diagnostic performance of DBT + FFDM was compared with that of FFDM.

Results:

The tumour visibility was significantly higher through DBT + FFDM (2.5 vs 1.8; p = 0.002) than FFDM alone. Breast composition was the independent variable for tumour visibility through DBT + FFDM (extremely dense; odds ratio, 0.02; p < 0.001). Sensitivity (p = 0.642), specificity (p = 0.463), positive-predictive value (p = 0.078), and negative-predictive value (p = 0.072) of DBT + FFDM were not significantly superior to those of FFDM in 55 females with extremely dense breast composition, whereas specificity (p = 0.002) and positive-predictive value (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in 210 females with other breast compositions.

Conclusion:

Addition of DBT to FFDM showed no significant increase in the tumour visibility and diagnostic performance in patients with noncalcified T  1 cancer in extremely dense breasts.

Advances in knowledge:

Addition of DBT to FFDM did not further improve the detection of noncalcified early breast cancers in females with extremely dense breasts.
Unrecognised Outbreak: Human parainfluenza virus infections in a pediatric oncology unit. A new diagnostic PCR and virus monitoring system may allow early detection of future outbreaks
Authors: Smielewska Anna , Pearson Callum , Popay Ashley , Roddick Iain , Reacher Mark , Emmott Edward , He Jenny , Thaxter Rachel , Chenery Carol , Goodfellow Ian , Burke Amos , Jalal Hamid
Published: September 2018

Background:Human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) are significant causes of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections with type 3 (HPIV3) causing the most severe disease in the immunocompromised cohorts.  The objective of this study was to analyse the epidemiological nature of a cluster of cases of HPIV3 in a pediatric oncology unit of a major teaching hospital.

Methods:In order to determine whether the activity observed represented a deviation from the norm, seasonal trends of HPIV3 in the surrounding geographical area as well as on the ward in question were analysed.  The genetic link between cases was established by the phylogenetic analysis of the non-coding hypervariable region between the M (Matrix) and F (fusion) genes of HPIV3. The 15 cases involved and 15 unrelated cases were sequenced.  Transmission routes were subsequently inferred and visualized using Konstanz Information Miner (KNIME) 3.3.2.

Results:Of the 15 cases identified, 14 were attributed to a point source outbreak. Two out of 14 outbreak cases were found to differ by a single mutation A182C. The outbreak strain was also seen in 1 out of 15 unrelated cases, indicating that it was introduced from the community. Transmission modeling was not able to link all the cases and establish a conclusive chain of transmission. No staff were tested during the outbreak period. No deaths occurred as a result of the outbreak.

Conclusion:A point source outbreak of HPIV3 was recognizedpost factumon an oncology pediatric unit in a major teaching hospital. This raised concern about the possibility of a future more serious outbreak. Weaknesses in existing systems were identified and a new dedicated respiratory virus monitoring system introduced.  Pediatric oncology units require sophisticated systems for early identification of potentially life-threatening viral outbreaks.
A versatile LC-MS/MS approach for comprehensive, quantitative analysis of central metabolic pathways
Authors: Walvekar Adhish , Rashida Zeenat , Maddali Hemanth , Laxman Sunil
Published: September 2018

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) based approaches are widely used for the identification and quantitation of specific metabolites, and are a preferred approach towards analyzing cellular metabolism. Most methods developed come with specific requirements such as unique columns, ion-pairing reagents and pH conditions, and typically allow measurements in a specific pathway alone. Here, we present a single column-based set of methods for simultaneous coverage of multiple pathways, primarily focusing on central carbon, amino acid, and nucleotide metabolism. We further demonstrate the use of this method for quantitative, stable isotope-based metabolic flux experiments, expanding its use beyond steady-state level measurements of metabolites. The expected kinetics of label accumulation pertinent to the pathway under study are presented with some examples. The methods discussed here are broadly applicable, minimize the need for multiple chromatographic resolution methods, and highlight how simple labeling experiments can be valuable in facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the metabolic state of cells.
On the Classification of Scientific News Information
Authors: Юдина И. , Yudina I. , Косяков Д. , Kosyakov D. , Базылева Е. , Bazyleva E. , Вахрамеева З. , Vahrameeva Z. , Федотова О. , Fedotova O.
Published: September 2018

The present research aims to study modern approaches to the classification of news information in general, and of science news in particular. Based on the analysis of Russian scientific publications and information systems, several classifications used to systematize news (mostly universal) are described. The article proposes the author’s classification of scientific news as an element of modern scientific communication system. This classification can potentially be used as another tool for assessing the effectiveness of scientific institution research results.
Foreign Words in the News Texts of Internet Publications
Authors: Кудрина Л. , Kudrina L.
Published: September 2018

The article is devoted to the actual problem of using foreign words in news texts of Internet publications. The author considers the news texts of the leading online media, highlights and examines foreign lexemes. The author shows the ambiguous interpretation of the linguistic term ‘borrowing’ in Russian linguistics and the related difficulties of distinguishing the varieties of borrowed words. The author’s appeal to foreign lexemes based on the definition of dictionaries allows to identify the dynamics of the occurrence of linguistic units. As a result of the analysis, foreign words are classified, there are borrowed words, mostly international vocabulary and linguistic inclusions among them. The study illustrates the next period of intensive foreign language influence in the modern Russian language. The main sources of the vocabulary of the media are direct borrowings from the English language.
The Role of Intercultural Approach in Teaching Foreign Languages at the University
Authors: Иванова Л. , Ivanova L. , Лукомская Е. , Lukomskaya E.
Published: September 2018

The article deals with a new trend in foreign language teaching based on the cross-cultural approach. The challenge for teachers today is to develop students common, communicative and language competences which are essential conditions for the realization of such a task of modern language policy as the establishment of mutual understanding between different cultures. The components of communicative competence are established. The development of communicative competence is considered to be an obligatory condition for mutual understanding between nations in modern world.
Problems of Application of Civil-Law Institute of Confiscation of Property As Means of Fighting Corruption
Authors: Арямов А. , Aryamov A. , Руева Е. , Rueva E.
Published: September 2018

The article considers the most effective mechanisms for realizing the confiscation of property as a means of counteracting corruption. The confiscation institute is investigated in its civil, not criminal-legal meaning. The authors of the article paid special attention to the analysis of international legal regulation of various issues of confiscation in rem and the problems of implementing this institution in the domestic legal field. An analysis of domestic anti-corruption legislation showed that, for all its similarity with the institution, confiscation in rem, the domestic civil-legal institution of confiscation is not such. In the process of its definition, vices are laid, which nullify the effectiveness of the implementation of this institution. When investigating the civil-law institute of property confiscation, the authors used methods of analysis, synthesis, systemic and functional approaches, formal legal and comparative legal methods. On the basis of these methods, the authors come to the conclusion that Russian legislation ensuring the implementation of Art. 235 GCRF, at the moment does not contain effective tools to combat corruption. The author draws attention to the problem of corruption-relatedness of the anti-corruption legislation. In his opinion, the solution of this problem will require a serious analysis of all normative material, a detailed forecast of the application of legal norms in real social conditions.
Analysis of the State and Prospects of Innovative-Technological Development of Russian Machine-Tool Construction
Authors: Одегов Юрий , Odyegov YUriy , Гарнов Андрей , Garnov Andrey , Логинова Е. , Loginova E.
Published: September 2018

In the article, based on statistical information, the dynamics and structure of the main indicators characterizing Russian machine tool construction are considered. The existing tendencies and patterns are analyzed. The key problems of the industry were identified. The necessity of technical modernization of this basic branch is substantiated. The intermediate results of import substitution and prospects for further development of the industry are estimated. Factors that influence the development of modern machine-tool construction are revealed. The directions of the industry development are presented. Recommendations are offered for the creation of machine-tool clusters.
The Organization of Business Personnel Assessment in the Company
Authors: Маслова Валентина , Maslova Valyentina
Published: September 2018

The features and the need in modern conditions of the assessment of the company’s personnel for the development of each employee of the company are considered. The role and the need for business evaluation of employees in the personnel management system of the company is shown. The advantages and disadvantages of business evaluation of employees and the company are presented. The components of the technology of business valuation method — assessment center and its relevance in modern conditions are presented in more detail.
Modular Construction of Distance Learning Courses in the System of Higher Education
Authors: Казанцева Елена , Kazanceva Elena , Казанцева Анжела , Kazanceva Anzhela
Published: September 2018

At the present time in connection with the updated requirements for the organization of the educational process in higher education, special attention is paid to the organization of distance learning. At the same time, one of the topical approaches to building distance courses is the modular approach, which allows individualization of training. In accordance with this approach, a full-fledged remote module should include instructive, informative, communicative and reflexive parts. With this approach, the teacher has the opportunity to more effectively build the educational process, focusing on the formation of personally significant results, expressed in terms of competence.
Research Foresight — a New Educational Technology for Developing the Competencies of Industry Managers Cost
Authors: Шинина Татьяна , Shinina Tatyana , Морозова Инна , Morozova Inna
Published: September 2018

The article is devoted to the disclosure of the prerequisites for the creation and description of the theoretical foundations of the new educational technology «Re-foresight» («Research Foresight»). The article justified the request for new educational technologies in working with the managers of the new formation. The genesis of the foresight methodology is presented, in which the content thread of the formation of instruments of influence on the development of the strategies of the country, region, and industry is traced. The road map of author's educational technology for research foresight is given, which includes the stages: improvement of managerial competencies, real forecasting, design of management decisions, assessment; application of modern teaching methods: igrofication, visualization of meanings, personal reflection. A triad of psychological categories (personality - activity - communication) is presented, forming the methodology of educational technology «Re-Foresight». The educational technology «Re-Foresight» has been approved in the construction of the image of the future youth branch of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District and can be applied at the regional and municipal level, as well as in carrying out branch and corporate foresights.
Recommendations for Correction of Adverse Evaluating Opportunities for Life Perspectives of Children and Adolescents Affecting in State Institutions
Authors: Жильцова Ольга , Soldatov Olga , Солдатов Дмитрий , Soldatov Dmitriy
Published: September 2018

The article reflects the results of the scientific research carried out by the authors and the experience of practical work with adolescents. The article presents the results of an empirical study of the concepts of life perspectives and recommendations on the organization and content of psychological and pedagogical work aimed at forming a full-fledged life perspective for adolescents living in government institutions. Such work should be an important direction of the developing and corrective activity of the institution that educates adolescents who have fallen into a difficult life situation — the families left without care. Psychological support of the formation of ideas about life prospects will allow adolescents to develop much more adequate ideas about themselves, their abilities, life perspectives, and learn to plan their own life's events. Psychological work on the formation of adequate ideas about life prospects with teenagers raised outside the family will help create the prerequisites for overcoming this category of adolescents between the "dysfunctional past and the present" and the "dysfunctional future," and will contribute to a more prosperous independent life in the future.
Universal Learning Activities in the System of Teaching Chinese As a Second Foreign Language
Authors: Орехова Екатерина , Orehova Ekaterina
Published: September 2018

This article examines the problem of Chinese language teaching in the conditions of implementation of the new educational standards, especially in terms of achieving any possible meta-subject results in the process of learning. This article analyzes educational-methodical complexes conforming to the new educational standards and identifies the peculiarities of each of them from the position of goal-setting, content and expected results. Consequently, this article reveals the potential of Chinese as a second language that is the opportunity to shape universal learning activities in the process of course development. It formulates the list of universal learning activities that can be shaped in the process of learning Chinese as a second language. Moreover, it specifies the types of subject activities in correspondence with the above-mentioned universal learning activities.
A Solvable Two-Dimensional Degenerate Singular Stochastic Control Problem with Nonconvex Costs
Authors: Angelis Tiziano De , Ferrari Giorgio , Moriarty John
Published: September 2018

In this paper we provide a complete theoretical analysis of a two-dimensional degenerate nonconvex singular stochastic control problem. The optimisation is motivated by a storage-consumption model in an electricity market, and features a stochastic real-valued spot price modelled by Brownian motion. We find analytical expressions for the value function, the optimal control, and the boundaries of the action and inaction regions. The optimal policy is characterised in terms of two monotone and discontinuous repelling free boundaries, although part of one boundary is constant and the smooth fit condition holds there.
Ensuring safe, sustainable and productive staffing
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: September 2018

Sam Foster, Chief Nurse, Oxford University Hospitals, considers the impact of the staffing crisis and guidance produced for the National Quality Board around changes in staffing and skill mix
Transformational leadership and ethical leadership: their significance in the mental healthcare system
Authors: Jambawo Sharon
Published: September 2018

This article critically compares transformational leadership and ethical leadership. It discusses the differences, similarities, weaknesses and strengths of the two styles. The importance of strong leadership in meeting an array of challenges and changes occurring in the NHS is highlighted. The article explores the influence of transformational and ethical leadership styles on the role of nurse leaders, particularly those in mental health, and also the influence of emotional intelligence in leadership. Over the last five decades, there has been a transformation in mental health, but more needs to be done to ensure everyone can access high-quality care when they need it. Transformational leadership remains important in such an ever-changing healthcare environment, but ethical behaviour should be its base.
Selective dorsal rhizotomy in ambulant children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Wang K. K. , Munger M. E. , Chen B. P.-J. , Novacheck T. F.
Published: September 2018

Background

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical procedure for treating spasticity in ambulant children with cerebral palsy (CP). However, controversies remain regarding indications, techniques and outcomes.

Current evidence summary

Because SDR is an irreversible procedure, careful patient selection, a multi-disciplinary approach in assessment and management and division of the appropriate proportion of dorsal rootlets are felt to be paramount for maximizing safety. Reliable evidence exists that SDR consistently reduces spasticity, in a predictable manner and to a substantial degree. However, functional improvements are small in the short-term with long-term benefits difficult to assess.

Future outlook

There is a need for high-quality studies utilizing long-term functional outcomes and well-matched control groups. Collaborative, multicentre efforts are required to further define the role of SDR as part of the management paradigm in maximizing physical function in spastic CP.
ISAHP2018 Conference in Hong Kong, July 12-15
Authors: Saaty Rozann W.
Published: September 2018

This year the International Symposium on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (ISAHP2018) was dedicated to the memory of Thomas Saaty, the father of the Analytic Hierarchy Process, and my husband of 52 years, who passed away on August 17, 2017, at the age of 91 The conference chair was Luis Vargas, Tom’s longtime colleague at the University of Pittsburgh's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business where he held the chair of Distinguished University Professor. Their names are linked on many AHP articles and books that they co-authored during the past 40 years.
Special Topic Articles on Fuzzy AHP
Authors: Kahraman Cengiz
Published: September 2018

In this section, three papers on the theoretical development and/or practical usage of fuzzy AHP are presented. I hope this section will provide a useful resource of ideas, techniques, and methods for research on fuzzy AHP.
Systematic Comparison of Bacterial Colonization of Endometrial Tissue and Fluid Samples in Recurrent Miscarriage Patients: Implications for Future Endometrial Microbiome Studies
Authors: Liu Yingyu , Wong Karen Ka-Wing , Ko Elaine Yee-Ling , Chen Xiaoyan , Huang Jin , Tsui Stephen Kwok-Wing , Li Tin Chiu , Chim Stephen Siu-Chung
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

A recent study has reported that the microbiota in endometrial fluid of patients receiving in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) may predict implantation and pregnancy rates. However, studies are lacking that simultaneously compare the microbiota between endometrial fluid and tissue samples. Whether the microbiota composition in endometrial fluid reflects that in the endometrial tissue remains unclear.

METHODS

We systematically profiled the microbiota in endometrial fluid and tissue samples of IVF-ET patients using massively parallel sequencing. The bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene (V4 region) was PCR-amplified. Sequencing reads with >98% nucleotide identity were clustered as a bacterial taxon. To account for the different number of reads per sample, we normalized the read counts of each taxon before comparing its relative abundances across samples.

RESULTS

Thirteen taxa, including Verrucomicrobiaceae, Brevundimonas, Achromobacter, Exiguobacterium, and Flavobacterium, were consistently detected only in endometrial tissue samples but not fluid samples. Eight taxa were detected in fluid but not tissue. Twenty-two taxa were differentially abundant between fluid and tissue samples (adjusted P values, 4.1 × 10−25 to 0.025). The numbers of taxa identified per 1000 sequencing reads, diversity, and evenness in fluid samples were smaller than those in tissue samples.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that the microbiota composition in endometrial fluid does not fully reflect that in endometrial tissue. Sampling from both endometrial fluid and biopsy allows a more comprehensive view of microbial colonization. Further efforts are needed to identify the preanalytical effects, including sampling sites, methods, and sequencing depth, on profiling endometrial microbiota.
Applying Standard Clinical Chemistry Assay Validation to Droplet Digital PCR Quantitative Liquid Biopsy Testing
Authors: Milosevic Dragana , Mills John R , Campion Michael B , Vidal-Folch Noemi , Voss Jesse S , Halling Kevin C , Highsmith W Edward , Liu Minetta C , Kipp Benjamin R , Grebe Stefan K G
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) is an emerging technology for quantitative cell-free DNA oncology applications. However, assay performance criteria must be established in a standardized manner to harness this potential. We reasoned that standard protocols used in clinical chemistry assay validation should be able to fill this need.

METHODS

We validated KRAS, EGFR, and BRAF quantitative ddPCR assays based on the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act regulations for laboratory-developed tests in clinical chemistry and the matching Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. This included evaluation of limit of the blank (LOB), limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), intraassay and interassay imprecision, analytical range, dilution linearity, accuracy (including comparison with orthogonal platforms), reference range study, interference, and stability studies.

RESULTS

For the ddPCR assays, the LOB was 4 mutant copies, LODs were 12 to 22 copies, and LOQs were 35 to 64 copies. The upper limit of the dynamic range was 30000 copies, and dilutions were linear down to the LOQs with good accuracy of spike recovery of Horizon reference material. Method comparisons with next-generation sequencing and an alternative ddPCR platform showed complete qualitative agreement and quantitative concordance, with slopes of 0.73 to 0.97 and R2s of 0.83 to 0.99. No substantial interferences were discovered. Wild-type copy numbers in plasma ranged from 462 to 6169/mL in healthy individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Standard clinical chemistry assay validation protocols can be applied to quantitative ddPCR assays. This should facilitate comparison of the performance of different assays and allow establishment of minimal significant change thresholds in monitoring applications.
Completeness of Reporting of Systematic Reviews of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Based on the PRISMA-DTA Reporting Guideline
Authors: Salameh Jean-Paul , McInnes Matthew D F , Moher David , Thombs Brett D , McGrath Trevor A , Frank Robert , Dehmoobad Sharifabadi Anahita , Kraaijpoel Noémie , Levis Brooke , Bossuyt Patrick M
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the completeness of reporting of diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) systematic reviews using the recently developed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalyses (PRISMA)-DTA guidelines.

METHODS

MEDLINE® was searched for DTA systematic reviews published October 2017 to January 2018. The search time span was modulated to reach the desired sample size of 100 systematic reviews. Reporting on a per-item basis using PRISMA-DTA was evaluated.

RESULTS

One hundred reviews were included. Mean reported items were 18.6 of 26 (71%; SD = 1.9) for PRISMA-DTA and 5.5 of 11 (50%; SD = 1.2) for PRISMA-DTA for abstracts. Items in the results were frequently reported. Items related to protocol registration, characteristics of included studies, results synthesis, and definitions used in data extraction were infrequently reported. Infrequently reported items from PRISMA-DTA for abstracts included funding information, strengths and limitations, characteristics of included studies, and assessment of applicability. Reporting completeness was higher in higher impact factor journals (18.9 vs 18.1 items; P = 0.04), studies that cited PRISMA (18.9 vs 17.7 items; P = 0.003), or used supplementary material (19.1 vs 18.0 items; P = 0.004). Variability in reporting was associated with author country (P = 0.04) but not journal (P = 0.6), abstract word count limitations (P = 0.9), PRISMA adoption (P = 0.2), structured abstracts (P = 0.2), study design (P = 0.8), subspecialty area (P = 0.09), or index test (P = 0.5). Abstracts with a higher word count were more informative (R = 0.4; P < 0.001). No association with word counts was observed for full-text reports (R = −0.03; P = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Recently published reports of DTA systematic reviews are not fully informative when evaluated against the PRISMA-DTA guidelines. These results should guide knowledge translation strategies, including journal level (e.g., PRISMA-DTA adoption, increased abstract word count, and use of supplementary material) and author level (PRISMA-DTA citation awareness) strategies.
Overcoming prejudice, seeking support: Transnational social media communication of female Vietnamese students in South Korea and Singapore
Authors: An Soontae , Lim Sun Sun , Lee Hannah , Pham Becky
Published: September 2018

This study examined the role of social media in the daily lives of migrant students. The focus of this study was students’ use of social media and the benefits that they derived from it, particularly for communication with friends and family back in their home country. A total of 45 female Vietnamese students participated in a week-long social media-deprivation exercise in which they abstained from using social media to connect with friends and family in Vietnam and/or focus group discussions on their daily communication practices. A cross-cultural comparison was conducted to evaluate the differences between twenty Vietnamese students living in South Korea and 25 Vietnamese students living in Singapore. The findings indicate key differences in the sociocultural environment that influence their social media communication. Vietnamese students in South Korea drew closer to their co-national friends due to stronger perceptions of discrimination than their counterparts in Singapore, who integrated more easily into the multi-cultural environment. The findings suggest that international students should optimize their social media use to build diverse and encompassing social networks that are mutually reinforcing rather than mutually exclusive to facilitate adaptation.