bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of coffee quality cupping scores delivered by cupping centers in Ethiopia
Authors: Worku Mohammed , Duchateau Luc , Boeckx Pascal
Published: August 2016

The reproducibility of cupping scores for 30 coffee samples from eastern, southern and southwestern origins in Ethiopia was evaluated by comparing absolute differences within and between nine cuppers, three Ethiopia Commodity Exchange (ECX) cupping centers (Jimma, Awassa, Dire Dawa) and three coffee origins. Additionally, the correlation between cupping scores of an exporter (ECX) and an importer (EFICO Agency SA) was evaluated based on 70 coffee samples from five different origins. Differences in ECX cupping score variability were generally observed for all studied quality attributes. Variability was higher between than within cuppers. Furthermore, particular high variable scores were observed for the Dire Dawa cupping center and for some attributes of the southwestern coffee origin. However, the average absolute difference for total cup quality was small (ca. 3 on a 100 scale), which indicates that cupping scores by the ECX are sufficiently reproducible to allow reliable coffee quality grading. However, no correlation was observed between cupping scores of the exporter and importer, which indicates a lack of interchangeability between grading data produced by both actors.

Practical applications

Testing and grading of the quality of green coffee beans by the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange cupping centers is fairly reliable. However, the exporter quality scores and grades can most likely not be used interchangeably with those of an importer.
Factor Modelling for High‐Dimensional Time Series: Inference and Model Selection
Authors: Chan Ngai Hang , Lu Ye , Yau Chun Yip
Published: August 2016

Analysis of high‐dimensional time series data is of increasing interest among different fields. This article studies high‐dimensional time series from a dimension reduction perspective using factor modelling. Statistical inference is conducted using eigen‐analysis of a certain non‐negative definite matrix related to autocovariance matrices of the time series, which is applicable to fixed or increasing dimension. When the dimension goes to infinity, the rate of convergence and limiting distributions of estimated factors are established. Using the limiting distributions of estimated factors, a high‐dimensional final prediction error criterion is proposed to select the number of factors. Asymptotic properties of the criterion are illustrated by simulation studies and real applications.
Effect of Dietary Estradiol‐17β on the Feminization of Silver Perch, Bidyanus bidyanus (Mitchell, 1838)
Authors: Sulaeman  , Fotedar Ravi
Published: August 2016

The silver perch, Bidyanus bidyanus (Mitchell 1838), displays sexual dimorphism in size, with females reaching larger maximum size than males. In an attempt to produce all‐female populations, larvae at 30 d posthatching were fed an estradiol‐17β (E2) diet at dosages of 0, 60, and 120 mg/kg for 30 d. Histological examination of gonads revealed that all E2‐supplemented diets resulted in significantly higher (P < 0.05) feminization rates (97.22–100%) than did the control (39.69%) but with no difference between the two E2 diets (P > 0.05). Female and male gonads were observed in fish fed the 60 mg E2/kg diet. No significant differences were observed in the survival rate, weight gain, gonad weight and length, specific growth rate (SGR), or gonadosomatic indexes, except for gonad length and SGR at the end of the experiment. Although the ovary length of fish fed the 60 mg E2/kg diet was significantly shorter than that of the control groups, no abnormalities were detected. In contrast, fish fed 120 mg E2/kg grew faster than the other fish and showed sexual dimorphism. Our results suggest that supplementation of E2 at 60–120 mg/kg diet could be applied to establish all‐female populations of silver perch.
The biogeography of kin discrimination across microbial neighbourhoods
Authors: Kraemer Susanne A. , Wielgoss Sébastien , Fiegna Francesca , Velicer Gregory J.
Published: August 2016

The spatial distribution of potential interactants is critical to social evolution in all cooperative organisms. Yet the biogeography of microbial kin discrimination at the scales most relevant to social interactions is poorly understood. Here we resolve the microbiogeography of social identity and genetic relatedness in local populations of the model cooperative bacterium Myxococcus xanthus at small spatial scales, across which the potential for dispersal is high. Using two criteria of relatedness—colony‐merger compatibility during cooperative motility and DNA‐sequence similarity at highly polymorphic loci—we find that relatedness decreases greatly with spatial distance even across the smallest scale transition. Both social relatedness and genetic relatedness are maximal within individual fruiting bodies at the micrometre scale but are much lower already across adjacent fruiting bodies at the millimetre scale. Genetic relatedness was found to be yet lower among centimetre‐scale samples, whereas social allotype relatedness decreased further only at the metre scale, at and beyond which the probability of social or genetic identity among randomly sampled isolates is effectively zero. Thus, in M. xanthus, high‐relatedness patches form a rich mosaic of diverse social allotypes across fruiting body neighbourhoods at the millimetre scale and beyond. Individuals that migrate even short distances across adjacent groups will frequently encounter allotypic conspecifics and territorial kin discrimination may profoundly influence the spatial dynamics of local migration. Finally, we also found that the phylogenetic scope of intraspecific biogeographic analysis can affect the detection of spatial structure, as some patterns evident in clade‐specific analysis were masked by simultaneous analysis of all strains.
Detrimental effects of melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) variants on the clinical outcomes of BRAF V600 metastatic melanoma patients treated with BRAF inhibitors
Authors: Guida Michele , Strippoli Sabino , Ferretta Anna , Bartolomeo Nicola , Porcelli Letizia , Maida Immacolata , Azzariti Amalia , Tommasi Stefania , Grieco Claudia , Guida Stefania , Albano Anna , Lorusso Vito , Guida Gabriella
Published: August 2016

Melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) plays a key role in skin pigmentation, and its variants are linked with a higher melanoma risk. The influence of MC1R variants on the outcomes of patients with metastatic melanoma (MM) treated with BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) is unknown. We studied the MC1R status in a cohort of 53 consecutive BRAF‐mutated patients with MM treated with BRAFi. We also evaluated the effect of vemurafenib in four V600BRAF melanoma cell lines with/without MC1R variants.

We found a significant correlation between the presence of MC1R variants and worse outcomes in terms of both overall response rate (ORR; 59% versus 95%, P = 0.011 univariate, P = 0.028 multivariate analysis) and progression‐free survival (PFS) shorter than 6 months (72% versus 33%, P = 0.012 univariate, P = 0.027 multivariate analysis). No difference in overall survival (OS) was reported, probably due to subsequent treatments. Data in vitro showed a significant different phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and p38 MAPK during treatment, associated with a greater increase in vemurafenib IC50 in MC1R variant cell lines.
Adverse effects of imatinib in children with chronic myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Choeyprasert Worawut , Yansomdet Thitinun , Natesirinilkul Rungrote , Wejaphikul Karn , Charoenkwan Pimlak
Published: August 2016

Background

Imatinib mesylate (IM) is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor and is approved for indefinite treatment of pediatric chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Potential side‐effects regarding growth failure and bone metabolism have been reported but data are still scarce in pediatric CML.

Methods

Six chronic‐phase CML children on IM treatment with a median age of 9.87 years (range, 5.33–12.67 years) were enrolled in the study. Growth, bone mineral density (BMD), bone parameters, 25(OH)‐vitamin D3 (25‐OHD3) and blood tests including parathyroid hormone, insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), IGF binding protein 3, thyroid function test and sex hormones were assessed.

Results

Median duration of IM treatment was 78.5 months. Height velocity was suppressed during the first 30 months of treatment and improved gradually afterwards. Two patients (33.3%) had decreased lumbar spine BMD z‐scores (<1.5 SD). Patients with decreased BMD had higher mean IM exposure time than those with normal BMD. The majority of patients (n = 5) had low 25‐OHD3 (<30 ng/mL), but there was no correlation between BMD and 25‐OHD3 status. Other blood tests were normal.

Conclusions

This study supports and confirms the need for monitoring the side‐effects of IM treatment on growth, bone density and vitamin D status in pediatric CML. Prolonged IM treatment was associated with low BMD without disturbing bone parameters. There was high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency. Therefore, the beneficial effect of vitamin D supplement should be explored with regard to the effects on height velocity and BMD in CML patients with vitamin D insufficiency.
Morphologically tortured: taxonomic placement of an Antarctic springtail (Collembola: Isotomidae) misguided by morphology and ecology
Authors: Stevens Mark I. , D'Haese Cyrille A.
Published: August 2016

An endemic springtail from northern Victoria Land, Antarctica, was recently moved from Desoria to the new genus Chionobora, erected for a new species C. amila from lakes in the central highland plateau of Tasmania. This new combination for klovstadi was based on characters similar to both species (although not definitive) and an apparent preference for aquatic habitats. Here we show that neither of these inferences are valid. We sampled from two lake localities to obtain C. amila, and in doing so, we describe its habitat as riparian, not aquatic. We compared specimens of C. amila with klovstadi within a phylogeny using three genes (mtDNA COI, 18S rDNA, D1‐D5 of 28S rDNA) for 59 Isotominae terminals. We show that klovstadi is not closely related to the genus Chionobora that has closest affinities to the genus Isotomurus. As previously identified, klovstadi has no close affinities to any existing genus in Isotominae. Based on additional ecological, morphological and molecular evidence, we erect a new genus for klovstadi, Kaylathalia gen. n.
High fidelity 3D thermal nanoimprint with UV curable polydimethyl siloxane stamps
Authors: Chidambaram Nachiappan , Kirchner Robert , Altana Mirco , Schift Helmut
Published: August 2016

A two-step replication process chain is developed for a microlens array structure with deep three dimensional (3D) reliefs and sharp features enabling the transfer of a photocured acrylic resist patterns into thermoplastic poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) with the same structural polarity via an intermediate stamp. By using ultraviolet (UV)-curable polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS), high fidelity negatives were cast from the original microstructures made by two-photon-polymerization and subsequently replicated into PMMA using thermal imprint. The mechanical properties of the new UV-PDMS (X-34-4184, Shin-Etsu Chemical Company, Ltd.), along with its nearly zero process shrinkage, proved to be highly suitable to replicate both 50 μm high concave features and sharp tips with an apex diameter of 500 nm. The results prove that silicone rubber, despite its elasticity, has specific advantages in thermal imprint in structures where both tall microstructures and submicron surface structures have to be replicated. This way, high fidelity PMMA structures with low defects could be prepared by the optimized processing found in this work to have a replication of 3D masters for further upscaling.
Antibody-mediated protection against SHIV challenge includes systemic clearance of distal virus
Authors: Liu Jinyan , Ghneim Khader , Sok Devin , Bosche William J. , Li Yuan , Chipriano Elizabeth , Berkemeier Brian , Oswald Kelli , Borducchi Erica , Cabral Crystal , Peter Lauren , Brinkman Amanda , Shetty Mayuri , Jimenez Jessica , Mondesir Jade , Lee Benjamin , Giglio Patricia , Chandrashekar Abishek , Abbink Peter , Colantonio Arnaud , Gittens Courtney , Baker Chantelle , Wagner Wendeline , Lewis Mark G. , Li Wenjun , Sekaly Rafick-Pierre , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Burton Dennis R. , Barouch Dan H.
Published: August 2016

HIV-1–specific broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) can protect rhesus monkeys against simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) challenge. However, the site of antibody interception of virus and the mechanism of antibody-mediated protection remain unclear. We administered a fully protective dose of the bNAb PGT121 to rhesus monkeys and challenged them intravaginally with SHIV-SF162P3. In PGT121-treated animals, we detected low levels of viral RNA and viral DNA in distal tissues for seven days following challenge. Viral RNA–positive tissues showed transcriptomic changes indicative of innate immune activation, and cells from these tissues initiated infection after adoptive transfer into naïve hosts. These data demonstrate that bNAb-mediated protection against a mucosal virus challenge can involve clearance of infectious virus in distal tissues.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Agricultural, Host-Associated
Campylobacter coli
and
Campylobacter jejuni
Strains
Authors: Dutta Vikrant , Altermann Eric , Olson Jonathan , Wray Gregory Allan , Siletzky Robin M. , Kathariou Sophia
Published: August 2016

We report here the genome sequences of four agricultural, multidrug-resistant
Campylobacter
spp.:
C. coli
11601 and
C. jejuni
11601MD, isolated from turkey cecum and jejunum, respectively, and
C. coli
6067 and
C. coli
6461, isolated from turkey-house water and swine feces, respectively. The genomes provide insights on
Campylobacter
antimicrobial resistance and host adaptations.
A project to reduce the rate of central line associated bloodstream infection in ICU patients to a target of zero
Authors: Yaseen Muhammad , Al-Hameed Fahad , Osman Khalid , Al-Janadi Mansour , Al-Shamrani Majid , Al-Saedi Asim , Al-Thaqafi Abdulhakeem
Published: August 2016

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are life-saving and the majority of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) have them placed in order to receive medicine and fluids. However, the use of these catheters can result in serious bloodstream infections. The rate of Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infection (CLABSI) in Adult Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at King Abdulaziz Medical City Jeddah (KAMC-J) at the start of the project was 2.0/1000 line days in 2008. The Central Line (CL) Bundle by the Institute of Healthcare Improvement (IHI) was implemented at the same time with monitoring of compliance to the CL Bundle. The compliance to CL Bundle was very low at 37% in the same period. A multidisciplinary team was created to improve the compliance to the CL bundle which was expected to have an impact on the rate of CLABSI to achieve zero CLABSI events. The team continued to monitor and evaluate the progress on the compliance to the bundle as well as monitoring the CLABSI events using National Healthcare Safety Network diagnostic criteria. The real reduction in the rate of CLABSI was achieved in 2010 with 0.7/1,000 device days when the compliance to CL Bundle reached up to 98% in that year and 100% in the next two subsequent years. The project still continued and the rate continued to drop and the ultimate target of zero CLABSI was achieved in the year 2014 and maintained in the year 2015 with a sustained compliance of 100% to the CL Bundle. Successful implementation of CL Bundle can help in reducing the rates of CLABSI and achieving zero CLABSI events for a sustained period.
Diamond chain with delocalized interstitial spins: Magnetization, thermal and entanglement properties
Authors: Lazaryan Hrachya , Nalbandyan Mikayel , Ananikian Nerses
Published: August 2016

We study physical properties of the symmetric diamond chain with delocalized interstitial spins. We derive an exact solution of the model and characterize the phases of the system at zero temperature. On the basis of this solution, we examine its magnetic and thermal properties as well. The case of nonconserved electron number is then considered. There are phases, which we term as nonclassical, for which electrons in Hubbard dimers are in quantum entangled states. We finally study quantum entanglement depending on Hamiltonian parameters and temperature.
Ab initio investigation of the electronic, lattice dynamic and thermodynamic properties of ScCd intermetallic alloy
Authors: Adetunji B. I. , Olayinka A. S. , Fashae J. B. , Ozebo V. C.
Published: August 2016

The electronic structures, lattice dynamics and thermodynamic properties of rare-earth intermetallic ScCd alloy are studied by the first-principles plane-wave pseudopotential method within the generalized gradient approximation in the framework of density functional pertubation theory. The band structure, density of states, phonon dispersion frequencies, vibrational free energy [Formula: see text], specific heat capacity [Formula: see text] and entropy are studied between 0 K and 1500 K. Finally, using the calculated phonon density of states, the thermodynamic properties are determined within the quasi-harmonic approximation and a value of 47.9 (J/mol⋅K) at 300 K for specific heat capacity of ScCd is predicted.
THE EFFECT OF hPRP AND AUTOGRAFT-PRP ON BONE HEALING IN THE RADIAL DEFECT OF RAT
Authors: Oryan Ahmad , Bigham-Sadegh Amin , Monazzah Somayeh
Published: August 2016

Objective: The present study was designed to investigate the effects of platelet rich plasma (PRP) and autograft-human PRP on bone healing in a rat model. Methods: A critical sized defect at least twice as long as the diameter of the diaphysis was made in 16 rats to create a non-union model. The defect was either supplied with hPRP, or autograft-hPRP (experimental groups) and autograft (positive control) or left empty (negative control). Radiographs of each forelimb was taken postoperatively on the 1st day and then at the 35th, and 56th days post-injury to evaluate bone formation, union and remodeling of the defect. The operated radiuses were removed on 56th post-operative day and were evaluated biomechanically, histopathologically and ultrastructurally by scanning electron microscopy. Results: There was significant difference ([Formula: see text]0.05) between the groups in union and cancellous bone so that the autograft, autograft-hPRP and hPRP groups were significantly ([Formula: see text]0.05) superior to the empty group and in cortical bone formation the autograft-PRP group was significantly ([Formula: see text]0.05) superior to the other three groups but there was no significant difference ([Formula: see text]0.05) between the groups in cortical bone marrow. Biomechanical evaluation did not show any significant differences. There was no significant difference ([Formula: see text]0.05) between the groups in radiological parameters at 35th and 56th post-operative days. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that autograft-hPRP is most effective and could promote bone regeneration in the critical sized defects in rat model.
The Hardy’s nonlocality argument
Authors: Choudhary Sujit K , Agrawal Pankaj
Published: August 2016

Certain predictions of quantum theory are not compatible with the notion of local-realism. This was the content of Bell’s famous theorem of the year 1964. Bell proved this with the help of an inequality, famously known as Bell’s inequality. The alternative proofs of Bell’s theorem without using Bell’s inequality are known as “nonlocality without inequality (NLWI)” proofs. We review one such proof namely the Hardy’s proof which due to its simplicity and generality has been considered the best version of Bell’s theorem.
Full Three-Dimensional Seismic Response Analysis of Underground Structures with Large Complex Cross Sections and Two-Step Analysis Method for Reducing the Computational Costs
Authors: Ichimura Tsuyoshi , Tanaka Seizo , Hori Muneo , Yamamoto Yujin , Dobashi Hiroshi , Osada Mitsumasa , Ohbo Naoto , Yamada Takemine
Published: August 2016

To enhance the reliability of estimates of seismic behavior, with a special emphasis on quality assurance of numerical simulations, this paper presents a full three-dimensional (3D) seismic response analysis of a large underground structure with a complex cross section. We conduct a full 3D seismic-response analysis using a high-fidelity model with quality assurance and a high-performance computing technique in a supercomputer environment. Due to the large computational costs of such analyses, we propose a two-step numerical simulation method based on multi-scale analysis, image-based modeling, and sophisticated approximation techniques. We provide numerical examples showing that the method can successfully reproduce the dynamic behavior of a full 3D model, but with a considerable reduction in computational costs. Our method is expected to support practical seismic safety inspections and the design of underground structures with complex large-cross-sectional configurations, as it has already been applied to the practical seismic safety inspection of an actual underground highway.
Experimental Study on Inkjet-Printed Passive UHF RFID Tags on Versatile Paper-Based Substrates
Authors: He Han , Sydänheimo Lauri , Virkki Johanna , Ukkonen Leena
Published: August 2016

We present the possibilities and challenges of passive UHF RFID tag antennas manufactured by inkjet printing silver nanoparticle ink on versatile paper-based substrates. The most efficient manufacturing parameters, such as the pattern resolution, were determined and the optimal number of printed layers was evaluated for each substrate material. Next, inkjet-printed passive UHF RFID tags were fabricated on each substrate with the optimized parameters and number of layers. According to our measurements, the tags on different paper substrates showed peak read ranges of 4–6.5 meters and the tags on different cardboard substrates exhibited peak read ranges of 2–6 meters. Based on their wireless performance, these inkjet-printed paper-based passive UHF RFID tags are sufficient for many future wireless applications and comparable to tags fabricated on more traditional substrates, such as polyimide.
Harnessing the Power of Cruciferous Vegetables: Developing a Biomarker for Brassica Vegetable Consumption Using Urinary 3,3′-Diindolylmethane
Authors: Fujioka Naomi , Ransom Benjamin W. , Carmella Steven G. , Upadhyaya Pramod , Lindgren Bruce R. , Roper-Batker Astia , Hatsukami Dorothy K. , Fritz Vincent A. , Rohwer Charles , Hecht Stephen S.
Published: August 2016

Glucobrassicin in Brassica vegetables gives rise to indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a compound with potent anticancer effects in preclinical models. We previously showed that the urinary metabolite 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) could discriminate between volunteers fed high and low doses of Brassica vegetables. However, the quantitative relationship between glucobrassicin exposure and urinary DIM level is unclear. We conducted a clinical trial to examine the hypotheses that a range of glucobrassicin exposure from Brassica vegetables is reflected in urinary DIM and that this effect plateaus. Forty-five subjects consumed vegetables, a mixture of brussels sprouts and/or cabbage, at one of seven discrete dose levels of glucobrassicin ranging from 25 to 500 μmol, once daily for 2 consecutive days. All urine was collected for 24 hours after each vegetable-eating session. Urinary DIM was measured using our published liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry-selected reaction monitoring (LC/ESI-MS/MS-SRM) method. Urinary DIM excretion increased predictably with increasing glucobrassicin dose and plateaued between 200 and 300 μmol of glucobrassicin. The association between glucobrassicin dose and urinary DIM was strong and positive (R2 = 0.68). The majority of DIM was excreted in the first 12 hours after vegetable consumption. We conclude that urinary DIM is a reliable biomarker of glucobrassicin exposure and I3C uptake and that feeding glucobrassicin beyond 200 μmol did not consistently lead to more urinary DIM, suggesting a plateau in potential chemopreventive benefit. Cancer Prev Res; 9(10); 788–93. ©2016 AACR.
Clinical Usefulness of a One-Tube Nested Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Evaluating Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 mRNA Overexpression in Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded Breast Cancer Tissue Samples
Authors: Wang Hye-young , Ahn Sungwoo , Park Sunyoung , Kim SeungIl , Lee Hyeyoung
Published: August 2016

Background: Currently, the two main methods used to analyze human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplification or overexpression have a limited accuracy and high costs. These limitations can be overcome by the development of complementary quantitative methods. Methods: In this study, we analyzed HER2 mRNA expression in clinical formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples using a one-tube nested reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay. We measured expression relative to 3 reference genes and compared the results to those obtained by conventional immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assays with 226 FFPE breast cancer tissue samples. Results: The one-tube nested RT-qPCR assay proved to be highly sensitive and specific based on comparisons with IHC (96.9 and 97.7%, respectively) and FISH (92.4 and 92.9%, respectively) obtained with the validation set. Comparisons with clinicopathological data revealed significant associations between HER2 overexpression and TNM stage (p < 0.01), histological type (p < 0.01), ER status (p < 0.001), PR status (p < 0.05), HER2 status (p < 0.001), and molecular subtypes (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on these findings, our one-tube nested RT-qPCR assay is a potentially useful and complementary screening tool for the detection of HER2 mRNA overexpression.
Whole-Exome Sequencing Identifies Two Novel TTN Mutations in Chinese Families with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Liu Ji-Shi , Fan Liang-Liang , Zhang Hao , Liu Xiaoxian , Huang Hao , Tao Li-Jian , Xia Kun , Xiang Rong
Published: August 2016

Objectives: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a leading cause of sudden cardiac death. So far, only 127 mutations of Titin(TTN) have been reported in patients with different phenotypes such as isolated cardiomyopathies, purely skeletal muscle phenotypes or complex overlapping disorders of muscles. Methods: We applied whole-exome sequencing (WES) to investigate cardiomyopathy patients and a cardiomyopathy-related gene-filtering strategy was used to analyze the disease-causing mutations. Sanger sequencing was applied to confirm the mutation cosegregation in the affected families. Results: A nonsense mutation (c.12325C>T/p.R4109X) and a missense mutation (c.17755G>C/p.G5919R) of TTN were identified in 2 Chinese DCM families, respectively. Both mutations were cosegregated in all affected members of both families. The nonsense mutation is predicted to result in a truncated TTN protein and the missense mutation leads to a substitution of glycine by arginine. Both variants may cause the structure changes of titin protein. Conclusions: We employed WES to detect the mutations of DCM patients and identified 2 novel mutations. Our study expands the spectrum of TTN mutations and offers accurate genetic testing information for DCM patients who are still clinically negative.
The Laparoscopic-Assisted Combined Hysterectomy: A New Surgical Concept Compared to the Classical Laparoscopic-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy by a Prospective Study
Authors: Tchartchian Garri , Heldmann Pamela , Bojahr Bernd , Larbig Angelika , De Wilde Rudy-Leon
Published: August 2016

Background and Aims: This controlled trial with II-1 evidence compared the safety and efficacy of the new laparoscopic-assisted combined hysterectomy (LACH) with the standard surgical technique laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) in general and in patients displaying risk factors (large uterus, vaginal nulliparity, prior caesarean section). Methods: From June 2007 to September 2008, 101 patients underwent a hysterectomy at the Clinic of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Oncology at the Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynaecology in Oldenburg. The main outcome measures were feasibility, postoperative analgesia, postoperative inflammatory reaction, and duration of surgery. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS for Windows (p < 0.05). Results: We observed no significant differences between LACH and LAVH regarding outcome parameters or when risk factors were considered. Within the LACH group, the duration of surgery was significantly shorter for patients with UW <400 g. Still within the normal range, caesarean sections from both groups revealed significant differences in the number of leucocytes on the 2nd post-operative day. No urinary tract injuries, no unplanned conversion to laparotomy, no severe perioperative complications occurred in either group. Conclusion: In terms of technical feasibility, LACH represents a safe alternative for abdominal HE when LAVH is contraindicated.
Prediction of Poor Response to Modified Neuroleptanalgesia with Midazolam for Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ominami Masaki , Nagami Yasuaki , Shiba Masatsugu , Tominaga Kazunari , Maruyama Hirotsugu , Okamoto Junichi , Kato Kunihiro , Minamino Hiroaki , Fukunaga Shusei , Sugimori Satoshi , Yamagami Hirokazu , Tanigawa Tetsuya , Watanabe Toshio , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Arakawa Tetsuo
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: Modified neuroleptanalgesia (m-NLA) with midazolam is often used for sedation and analgesia during endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for gastrointestinal neoplasia. However, interruption due to poor response to midazolam is often experienced during ESD for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) because most patients with ESCC have a history of heavy alcohol intake. We examined the incidence and risk factors for poor response to m-NLA with midazolam and pethidine hydrochloride. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a single institution. Between April 2007 and July 2013, 151 patients with superficial ESCC who underwent ESD under sedation using m-NLA with midazolam and pethidine hydrochloride were enrolled. Poor response to sedation was defined as the use of a second drug when Ramsay Sedation Score 1-2. Results: Poor response to sedation occurred in 66.2% patients. Most cases of poor response were controlled by using additional flunitrazepam. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that cumulative alcohol intake and major specimen size were independent risk factors for poor response to sedation (OR 3.63, 95% CI 1.20-10.99, and OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.26-8.25). Conclusion: Our study indicated that cumulative alcohol intake and major specimen size were associated with poor response to m-NLA with midazolam and pethidine hydrochloride.
Enzalutamide as a Fourth- or Fifth-Line Treatment Option for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Badrising Sushil K. , van der Noort Vincent , Hamberg Paul , Coenen Jules L.L.M. , Aarts Maureen J. , van Oort Inge M. , van den Eertwegh Alfons J.M. , Los Maartje , van den Berg H. Pieter , Gelderblom Hans , Vrijaldenhoven Suzan , Kerver Emile D. , van Voorthuizen Theo , de Jong Igle J. , Haanen John B. , Bergman Andries M. ,   on behalf of the Dutch Uro-Oncology Study Group (DUOS)
Published: August 2016

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of enzalutamide (Enz) as fourth- or fifth-line treatment in men with metastasized castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), by analyzing a retrospective cohort of heavily pretreated patients. Methods: We evaluated toxicity, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and time to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression data from 47 CRPC patients treated with fourth- or fifth-line Enz. Results: All patients were treated with docetaxel and abiraterone acetate and 42 patients (89%) with cabazitaxel. The median age of the patients was 69 years (IQR, 63-73.5), 79% had bone metastases, 55% had lymph node metastases, and 17% had visceral metastases. The median duration of Enz treatment was 12.0 weeks (IQR, 8.3-20.4), and 11 patients (23%) responded to Enz (maximum PSA decline ≥50%). In general, Enz was well tolerated, with the most frequently reported adverse events being fatigue and nausea. The median OS was 40.1 weeks (95% CI, 25.4-61.4), the median PFS was 12.1 weeks (95% CI, 9.9-14.0) and the median time to PSA progression was 15.7 weeks (95% CI, 14.0-28.7). Conclusions: Analysis of this retrospective cohort suggests that Enz is well tolerated and that there is a 23% response rate in heavily pretreated CRPC patients, which is comparable with third-line treatment outcomes.
Os instrumentos urbanísticos como instrumentos de efetivação do PNDH
Authors: Di Sarno Daniela Campos Libório
Published: August 2016

O presente artigo busca analisar alguns instrumentos urbanísticos previstos na legislação brasileira, a fim de compreender se a sua utilização pode servir como meio para redução da desigualdade social e econômica e de promoção de inclusão social, tendo como base os objetivos estabelecidos na Constituição Federal de 1988 e a meta do Plano Nacional de Desenvolvimento Humano. Pretende-se, assim, através do exame de leis que tratam desses instrumentos urbanísticos, realizar uma avaliação, ainda que parcial, sobre se os contornos jurídicos trazidos para a efetivação de uma cidade inclusiva se mostram viáveis e exequíveis dentro do panorama fático-político em que se encontra a sociedade urbana brasileira.
Luta por Direitos, Rebeliões e Democracia no Século XXI: Algumas tarefas para a pesquisa em Direito
Authors: Rodriguez José Rodrigo
Published: August 2016

A partir da ideia geral de que na atualidade há uma "crise da democracia brasileira", na qual as instituições formais não conseguem captar os anseios da população, o que faz com que a todo o momento surjam novas reinvindicações de direitos, o presente artigo vista investigar quais seriam as tarefas mais urgentes da pesquisa em Direito, utilizando-se nesta análise dois ferramentais teóricos principais criados pelo autor, denominados “Mapa Jurídico-Conceitual das Lutas Sociais Contemporâneas”, que faz um panorama das lutas sociais da atualidade com suas pautas e “Figuras da Perversão do Direito”, baseada na obra de Franz Neumann, sendo que este último se subdivide em “fuga do direito”, “falsa legalidade” e “zonas de autarquia”, desenvolvidos a partir da obra do referido autor e utilizados para a análise da crise democrática brasileira. Conclui-se com os desafios e sugestões para a pesquisa em Direito.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place: The Ṭālibān, Afghan Self-Determination, and the Challenges of Transnational Jihadism
Authors: Hartung Jan-Peter
Published: August 2016

At the core of this article stands an investigation into a legal response by a Pakistani official of the Ṭālibān to the claim of the caliphate by IS leader Abū Bakr al-Baghdādī. This treatise, initially published simultaneously in Arabic and Pashto, is understood here as an important position paper of the Ṭālibān as a whole, reacting to the changing landscape of global Islamic militancy. As such, it was triggered by a number of only loosely connected events: firstly, there is the defection of a faction of the Pakistani Ṭālibān to the IS, resulting in the establishments of its governorate “Khurasan”. This coincided, secondly, with the release of documents by the leadership of al-Qāʿida in which it declared its unconditional allegiance to then-Ṭālibān leader Mullā Muḥammad ʿUmar. The third event was the official declaration of Mullā ʿUmar’s death in July 2015 and the subsequent election of a new leader of the Ṭālibān to whom the al-Qāʿida leadership has now transferred its allegiance. In this article it is shown that the Ṭālibān, as a movement with only regional aspirations, find themselves trapped in a dispute over global leadership within Muslim militant circles, crystallizing between al-Qāʿida and the IS.
To Translate or Not to Translate? 19th Century Ottoman Communities and Fiction
Authors: Ayaydın Cebe Günil Özlem
Published: August 2016

In the 19th century, Turcophone communities of the Ottoman Empire displayed a keen interest in European fiction. This study questions whether translating European works was simply linguistic substitution or rather had intrinsic dimensions such as cultural appropriation. It also investigates the reciprocity of literary production, and offers some observations on how translation influences and inspires “the making of literature”. The methods used are mainly based on statistical interpretation of bibliographic data and comparative sociological analysis. Turkish works printed in Arabic, Armenian and Greek alphabets are the objects of investigation. The findings demonstrate that translation in the Ottoman mind is actually an active literary appropriation primarily due to differences in the criterion of “modern fiction” from European standards where the differences are exaggerated by the Ottoman notion of translation, lending the translator liberating space and opportunity to interfere with the original text. Moreover, the intermingling between the oral and print cultures that obscures the definition of literary genres adds another level of complexity. It is also revealed that the millets of the Empire affected each other’s choice and taste resulting in a web of interactions that exhibit the literary market and literary “canon” of the period.
A hybrid exponentially weighted moving average chart for COM-Poisson distribution
Authors: Aslam Muhammad , Khan Nasrullah , Jun Chi-Hyuck
Published: August 2016

We provide the complete design of a hybrid exponentially weighted moving average (HEWMA) control chart for COM-Poisson distribution. The necessary measures of the proposed control chart are given in this manuscript, and the average run lengths (ARLs) are determined through Monte Carlo simulation for various values of specified parameters. The performance of the proposed chart is compared with two existing control charts. The proposed chart is more efficient than these two existing charts in terms of ARLs; application of the proposed chart is described with the help of Montgomery’s data ( Introduction to Statistical Quality Control, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 2007).
Peripheral blood CD34+ cells efficiently engraft human cytokine knock-in mice
Authors: Saito Yasuyuki , Ellegast Jana M. , Rafiei Anahita , Song Yuanbin , Kull Daniel , Heikenwalder Mathias , Rongvaux Anthony , Halene Stephanie , Flavell Richard A. , Manz Markus G.
Published: August 2016

Key Points

Human cytokine knock-in mice are improved in vivo models for multilineage engraftment of mobilized PB CD34+ cells. Humanized mouse models might open new avenues for personalized studies of human pathophysiology of the hematopoietic and immune system.
Practice and Outcomes of the Perioperative Surgical Home in a California Integrated Delivery System
Authors: Qiu Chunyuan , Cannesson Maxime , Morkos Atef , Nguyen Vu T. , LaPlace Diana , Trivedi Narendra S. , Khachatourians Armond , Rinehart Joseph , Kain Zeev N.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND:

In this article, we report on the implementation and impact of a Perioperative Surgical Home (PSH) model for the total knee arthroplasty at an integrated delivery system (Kaiser Permanente).

METHODS:

A multidisciplinary committee developed and implemented a series of PSH protocols that included the entire continuum of care from the decision for surgery until 30 days after surgery. Five hundred forty-six subjects were included in the preimplementation phase (Fast Track [T-fast]), and 518 patients were included in the postimplementation phase (PSH). The primary end points of this report are hospital length of stay (LOS), postoperative skilled nursing facility (SNF) bypass rate, and 30-day readmission rate. We used a generalized linear model to assess the effect on LOS while adjusting for potential confounding variables.

RESULTS:

We found that patients assigned to the PSH pathway had a significantly shorter mean LOS compared with patients in the T-fast group (2.4 ± 2.1 days [confidence interval {CI}, 2.2–2.8] vs 3.4 ± 2.9 days [CI, 2.9–3.9]). The SNF bypass rate was significantly higher in the PSH group compared with the T-fast group (94% vs 80%, P = 0.00002, CI, −0.102 to −0.036). There was no difference in the 30 readmission rates between patients managed in the PSH track and the T-fast track (1.2% vs 0.98%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Introduction of the PSH into an integrated delivery system resulted in a simultaneous reduction of LOS and SNF admission for total knee arthroplasty patients.
Structure–function relationships of archaeal Cbf5 during in vivo RNA-guided pseudouridylation
Authors: Majumder Mrinmoyee , Bosmeny Michael S. , Gupta Ramesh
Published: August 2016

In Eukarya and Archaea, in addition to protein-only pseudouridine (Ψ) synthases, complexes containing one guide RNA and four proteins can also produce Ψ. Cbf5 protein is the Ψ synthase in the complex. Previously, we showed that Ψ’s at positions 1940, 1942, and 2605 of Haloferax volcanii 23S rRNA are absent in a cbf5-deleted strain, and a plasmid-borne copy of cbf5 can rescue the synthesis of these Ψ’s. Based on published reports of the structure of archaeal Cbf5 complexed with other proteins and RNAs, we identified several potential residues and structures in H. volcanii Cbf5, which were expected to play important roles in pseudouridylation. We mutated these structures and determined their effects on Ψ production at the three rRNA positions under in vivo conditions. Mutations of several residues in the catalytic domain and certain residues in the thumb loop either abolished Ψ’s or produced partial modification; the latter indicates a slower rate of Ψ formation. The universal catalytic aspartate of Ψ synthases could be replaced by glutamate in Cbf5. A conserved histidine, which is common to Cbf5 and TruB is not needed, but another conserved histidine of Cbf5 is required for the in vivo RNA-guided Ψ formation. We also identified a previously unreported novelty in the pseudouridylation activity of Cbf5 where a single stem–loop of a guide H/ACA RNA is used to produce two closely placed Ψ’s and mutations of certain residues of Cbf5 abolished one of these two Ψ’s. In summary, this first in vivo study identifies several structures of an archaeal Cbf5 protein that are important for its RNA-guided pseudouridylation activity.
Erasure and reestablishment of random allelic expression imbalance after epigenetic reprogramming
Authors: Jeffries Aaron Richard , Uwanogho Dafe Aghogho , Cocks Graham , Perfect Leo William , Dempster Emma , Mill Jonathan , Price Jack
Published: August 2016

Clonal level random allelic expression imbalance and random monoallelic expression provides cellular heterogeneity within tissues by modulating allelic dosage. Although such expression patterns have been observed in multiple cell types, little is known about when in development these stochastic allelic choices are made. We examine allelic expression patterns in human neural progenitor cells before and after epigenetic reprogramming to induced pluripotency, observing that loci previously characterized by random allelic expression imbalance (0.63% of expressed genes) are generally reset to a biallelic state in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We subsequently neuralized the iPSCs and profiled isolated clonal neural stem cells, observing that significant random allelic expression imbalance is reestablished at 0.65% of expressed genes, including novel loci not found to show allelic expression imbalance in the original parental neural progenitor cells. Allelic expression imbalance was associated with altered DNA methylation across promoter regulatory regions, with clones characterized by skewed allelic expression being hypermethylated compared to their biallelic sister clones. Our results suggest that random allelic expression imbalance is established during lineage commitment and is associated with increased DNA methylation at the gene promoter.
Verbal Conflictogenous Component in Public Political Rhetoric of Modern History (In Inaugural Speeches of American Presidents from the 1980s to the Beginning of the 21st Century)
Authors: Хроменков  , Khromenkov Pavel
Published: August 2016

The article is devoted to the analysis of conflictogenous verbal components

in inaugural speeches of the USA presidents. Research is carried out by a

method of the quantitative content-analysis. In the article verbal components

inaugural speeches as the elements forming the program text, possessing

by unique characteristics — a constant target audience and the form which

are kept within more than 200 years are examined. The carried out research

allows determining significant potential of the frequency content-analysis of

“hate speech” in forecasting political conflicts and in development of political

processes as a whole. Such methodology allows revealing not only public,

but also latent political conflicts.
On the Language of the Internet
Authors: Ахренова  , Akhrenova N.
Published: August 2016

In this article the results of the research, devoted to the status of the language

of the Internet, conducted by the author are described. Nowadays

there are two leading points of view on the problem of the article. Some

linguists look upon this linguistic phenomenon as an independent language,

which is used in on-line communication. Other linguists treat the language

of the Internet as a type of slang or jargon used by a limited group of professionals.

We consider the language of the Internet as a language for specific

purposes (LSP) along side with the language of geometry and medicine.

But for the first time in the history of linguistics an LSP influences the standard

language so much. The research done proves it.
Stratagem as Cultural Phenomenon and Specifics of Chinese Business Culture
Authors: Ленинцева  , Lenintseva V. , Тохта-Ходжаева  , Tokhta-Khodzhaeva M.
Published: August 2016

The current article refers to a problem of stratagems in Chinese business

culture. Nowadays study and development of world’s business cultures is

one of the key moments of understanding the value of cultural phenomenon

of modernity. The development and ability of drafting sly and skillful plans,

tricks, logical traps ect., that must bring the interlocutor to a standstill. It is a

characteristic feature of Chinese business communication.
On the Comparative Typology of Constructions with Reflexive and Reciprocal Verbs with Semantics of War
Authors: Базикян  , Bazikyan L.
Published: August 2016

The article displays the status of Armenian, Russian and English constructions with reflexive and reciprocal verbs. Comparative analysis showed the morfological and semantic pecularities which exist between the costructions of given verbs in mentioned languages. Reciprocal verbs with semantics of war show similar semantic features, but morfologically they differ.
Information Culture in the Context of Higher Education
Authors: Святкина  , Svyatkina E.
Published: August 2016

The article discusses special features of information culture acquisition by

higher school students considering the transformation of learning environment

that is under way in contemporary universities. The author gives a

detailed analysis of the concept of computer-mediated communication,

which is now becoming a top priority in learning process modernization.

The article considers the advantages of e-learning and a new learning

format — digital textbook. It points out that the new approach to learning

process involves the appearance of new academic subjects to be taught by

modular principle. One of such “modular subjects” is a course of vocationally-

oriented informative reading in English. To illustrate the conclusion that

this course completion results in acquisition of the whole complex of new

communicative skills, the author gives an example of a text and tasks from

the elective course “Academic skilis”, which is now being developed within

the Online University of the National Nuclear Research University “MEPhI”

for physics students.