bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Glutathione Synthesis Induced by Exhaustive Running Exercise via the Decreased Influx Rate of L-Cysteine in Rat Erythrocytes
Authors: Xiong Yanlian , Xiong Yanlei , Zhou Shuai , Yu Zhenhai , Zhao Dongmei , Wang Zhiqiang , Li Yuling , Yan Jingtong , Cai Yu , Zhang Wenqian
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of exhaustive exercise on L-cysteine uptake and its effect on erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) synthesis and metabolism. Methods: Rats were divided into three groups: sedentary control (C), exhaustive running exercise (ERE) and moderate running exercise (MRE) (n=12 rats/group). We determined the L-cysteine efflux and influx in vitro in rat erythrocytes and its relationship with GSH synthesis. Total anti-oxidant potential of plasma was measured in terms of the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) values for each exercise group. In addition, the glucose metabolism enzyme activity of erythrocytes was also measured under in vitro incubation conditions. Results: Biochemical studies confirmed that exhaustive running exercise significantly increased oxidative damage parameters in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and methemoglobin levels. Pearson correlation analysis suggested that L-cysteine influx was positively correlated with erythrocyte GSH synthesis and FRAP values in both the control and exercise groups. In vitro oxidation incubation significantly decreased the level of glucose metabolism enzyme activity in the control group. Conclusion: We presented evidence of the exhaustive exercise-induced inhibition of GSH synthesis due to a dysfunction in L-cysteine transport. In addition, oxidative stress-induced changes in glucose metabolism were the driving force underlying decreased L-cysteine uptake in the exhaustive exercise group.
Plasma Gelsolin Promotes Proliferation of Mesangial Cell in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Lei , Kong Dan , Meng Hongxue , Han Changsong , Zhu Jiang , Qiao Juanjuan , He Yan , Wang Tianzhen , Li Xiaobo , Zhang Fengmin , Jin Xiaoming
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: Plasma gelsolin (pGSN) is an actin-binding protein that plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. However, whether pGSN is involved in other immunological diseases remains unknown. This study focused on the relationship between pGSN and immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN). Methods: Two hundred patients with IgAN, 200 patients each with several other types of nephropathy and healthy controls (HCs) who underwent kidney biopsies between 2000 and 2014 were enrolled in the study. The Oxford classification system was used to predict the risk of disease progression. Serum and renal tissue were used to detect pGSN, and the correlations between pGSN and IgA, galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1), fibronectin (FN) content, clinical symptoms, and kidney function were analyzed. Results: We found that the pGSN levels were significantly decreased in sera from IgAN patients compared to sera from patients with other forms of glomerular nephritis and HCs. Furthermore, the serum pGSN levels were negatively correlated with the serum IgA1, FN, and TGF-β1 levels, and positively correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Conversely, the glomerular pGSN content was significantly elevated in the IgAN patients and was positively correlated with TGF-β1 and FN levels. In renal tissue, the pGSN levels were significantly higher in IgAN patients with M1 and S1 compared to patients with M0 and S0 (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, pGSN promoted human mesangial cell (HMC) proliferation by facilitating cell mitosis in vitro. pGSN also promoted integrin α2β1 expression in HMCs and enhanced the integrin α2β1-pGSN interaction. Conclusion: Our study suggested that pGSN may play an important role in the development of IgAN by promoting the proliferation of mesangial cells and that serum and glomerular pGSN levels may be new markers for predicting IgAN progression and prognosis.
Differential Expression of Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 in Monocyte Subsets: Impact of Uremia and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ulrich Christof , Trojanowicz Bogusz , Fiedler Roman , Kohler Felix , Wolf Anna-Franziska , Seibert Eric , Girndt Matthias
Published: December 2016

Background: Monocytic products, such as lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), may participate in the development of atherosclerosis. Heterogeneity of monocytes is widely acknowledged. Classical, intermediate, and non-classical subsets can be discerned. Recently, an inflammatory, pro-atherogenic monocyte population could be identified in hemodialysis patients. In this study, we investigated the expression of Lp-PLA2 on leucocytes and different monocyte subpopulations and their possible role in uremia, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. Methods: Chronic kidney disease stage 5-D (CKD5-D; n = 57), healthy control subjects with hs-C-reactive protein (CRP) levels ≤1 mg/L (CO-N, n = 22) and a control group with inflammatory activation (CRP levels >1 mg/L, CO-I, n = 29) were enrolled in this cross-sectional observation. The CKD5-D cohort was dichotomized into patients with (A+) and without subclinical atherosclerosis (A-) by carotid artery ultrasound measurement. Lp-PLA2 activity was determined in plasma samples, Lp-PLA2 mRNA expression analysis in leucocytes, and sorted monocyte subsets. Effects of Lp-PLA2 overexpression were studied in classical vs. intermediate and non-classical subsets. Results: The classical monocytes expressed the highest Lp-PLA2 mRNA levels as compared to other subpopulations. CKD5-D patients revealed significantly higher Lp-PLA2 transcripts, as well as higher Lp-PLA2 plasma activity as compared to healthy and “inflammatory” controls. In vitro data confirmed that uremia significantly contributes to Lp-PLA2 mRNA upregulation. Non-classical monocytes of A+ patients revealed significant higher Lp-PLA2 mRNA compared to A-. Conclusion: Uremic environment but not inflammation per se increases plasma Lp-PLA2 activity and upregulates monocytic Lp-PLA2 mRNA expression. The highest Lp-PLA2 levels were found in the classical and not in the inflammatory subsets. Atherosclerosis also contributes to a subset-specific increase in Lp-PLA2 mRNA expression.
Revaluation of the Samaropsis mendesii Rigby, 1972 from Paraná Basin lower Permian
Authors: Marques-de-Souza Juliane , Iannuzzi Roberto
Published: December 2016

This paper suggests an emendation to the diagnosis of Samaropsis mendesii Rigby, 1972 (Rio Bonito Formation, Santa Catarina State, Paraná Basin) on the basis of which the Samaropsis gigas Marques-de-Souza et Iannuzzi 2007 comes to be considered a junior synonym of this species. Adding the specimens previously considered as S. gigas from the Rio Grande do Sul State, the stratigraphic range of S. mendesii is extended to the uppermost portion of the Itararé Group. Also, we provide a comparative analysis with the closest Indian species Otofeista milleri (Feistmantel) Pant et al. (1985) (Karharbari beds). The comparison of the S. mendesii with the Indian material pointed to a strong morphometric correspondence between both, highlighting the potentiality of the use of this seed form in stratigraphic correlations due to the peculiarity of the morphology and the abundance of these seeds in Cisuralian (Sakmarian-Artinskian) strata of Gondwana.
Gender and Age Differences in Children’s Perceptions of Self-Companion Animal Interactions Expressed through Drawings
Authors: Tardif-Williams Christine Yvette , Bosacki Sandra Leanne
Published: December 2016

This study explored gender and age differences in children’s perceptions of their interactions with companion animals, as represented through drawings and written descriptions. The study included 77 school-aged children (50 girls, 27 boys; aged 6 to 12 years) who attended a one-week humane education summer camp that aimed to promote positive interactions with animals. Children completed drawings of their interactions with companion animals and provided accompanying written descriptions. The results suggested that boys’ drawings and written descriptions showed more cognitively-based perceptions of self-companion animal interactions. In contrast, girls’ drawings and written descriptions showed more emotionally-focused perceptions. The drawings and written descriptions of younger (versus older) girls included the highest percentage of emotional language. In contrast, older (versus younger) boys used the highest percentage of emotional language to describe their self-companion animal drawings. Implications for gendered, developmentally sensitive, school-based programs aimed to encourage positive interactions between children and animals are discussed.
Reforming un Peace Operations: Will the High-Level Panel’s Report Make a Difference for Human Rights?
Authors: Whalan Jeni
Published: December 2016

In June 2015, the un Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Peace Operations (hippo) handed down more than 100 recommendations for making peace missions more effective. Following in the tradition of the Brahimi Report (2000) and An Agenda for Peace (1992), the hippo report is the latest attempt to grapple with the escalating, and often competing, demands made of un peace operations. This article assesses the prospects of hippo’s recommendations, identifying their likely impact, and where they will likely fall short.
Barriers to Operationalising the “Women, Peace & Security” Doctrine in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations
Authors: Rimmer Susan Harris
Published: December 2016

This article argues that there are two barriers to operationalising the Women Peace and Security resolutions at the mission level that deserve further attention. The first barrier is that the legal architecture has flaws, and does not seem to be matched with a commensurate political commitment that shapes the high-level un response at the level of mandate. The second barrier relates to the institutional ability to deliver a peacekeeping mission with gender equality at its heart, related to the capacity of domestic militaries. The article argues that there needs to be deeper thinking about the capabilities of modern militaries to fulfil complex peace operations which contain the imperative for gender sensitive for conflict analysis, planning, security sector reform, disarmament, ddr, and disaster response. The slow progress of gender reform of militaries is hindering credible regulatory responses in un missions. The article concludes that this creates lingering distrust of military intervention as a tool to protect women and girls, even from conflict-related sexual violence, even in a peace-keeping context.
Policing the Peacekeepers: Disrupting un Responses to “Crises” Over Sexual Offence Allegations
Authors: Simić Olivera
Published: December 2016

Over the last two decades, United Nations (un) peacekeepers have faced a series of sexual offence allegations, largely against women and young girls and boys. The earliest reports emerged from Cambodia in 1992 and the latest in 2016, with a large majority of cases situated in the Central African Republic. This article briefly outlines the history of sexual offence allegations that have followed almost every peacekeeping operation conducted since the early 1990s. It then outlines some measures that the un has devised to prevent sex crimes. It is argued that the strategies deployed do not reflect the gravity of the crimes which continue to be largely portrayed as disciplinary misconduct.
THE EXPANDING SYLLABARY OF HONG KONG CANTONESE
Authors: Bauer Robert S.
Published: December 2016

L'EXPANSION DU SYLLABAIRE DU CANTONAIS DE HONGKONG

A partir de ses propres observations et de données recueillies dans la littérature, l'auteur dresse une liste des emprunts anglais en cantonais ayant pour résultat la création de syllabes qui jusque là n'existaient pas en cantonais. Trois types de nouvelles syllabes sont distingués: cellles creéés par recombinaison d'initiales et de finales déjà existantes; celles ayant une finale inédite; et celles violant en apparence la phonotactique cantonaise, comprenant deux consonnes labiales, ou ayant pour initiate un groupe muta + liquida. Les syllabes de ce dernier groupe sont en fait conformes à la phonotactique de vieux mots cantonais appartenant aux couches lexicales les moins littéraires: onomatopées etc. Ces syllabes, comme celles des deux premiers groupes forment des combinaisons segmentales autorisées par la phonotactique cantonaise, et dont l'inexistance était accidentelle.
La négation "explétive" en chinois
Authors: Haiying Qiu
Published: December 2016

This article aims to show that the phenomenon of expletive negation, observed e.g. in French, also exists in Chinese. The factor of (un-)desirability from the speaker's point of view, proposed as relevant by preceding studies, is rejected. Instead, Martin's (1984) semantico-logical approach is adopted in order to demonstrate the homogeneity of the mechanism of expletive negation, through the heterogeneity of the trigger-items. Last, but not least, the constraints governing the trigger-items are shown to be closely related to the internal structure of the language.
Polyphyly of the genus Canoparmelia—uncovering incongruences between phenotype-based classification and molecular phylogeny within lichenized Ascomycota (Parmeliaceae)
Authors: KIRIKA PAUL M. , DIVAKAR PRADEEP K. , CRESPO ANA , LEAVITT STEVEN D. , MUGAMBI GEORGE , GATHERI GRACE W. , LUMBSCH H. THORSTEN
Published: December 2016

Many phenotypical features traditionally used to classify genera in Parmeliaceae and in lichens in general have evolved several times independently, potentially limiting their taxonomic utility. Here, we aim to elucidate evolutionary relationships of Canoparmelia s. lat. among other parmotremoid taxa. A multilocus dataset (ITS, nuLSU and mtSSU rDNA sequences) was gathered and analyzed within a phylogenetic framework. Canoparmelia s. lat. was recovered as highly polyphyletic within the parmelioid clade, and three divergent lineages representing Canoparmelia s. lat. were identified in addition to the previously segregated Crespoa group. Of these, two formed a sister relationship with Parmotrema. However, no apparent diagnostic morphological features were found distinguishing the distinct Canoparmelia s. lat. clades reconstructed in the phylogenetic analyses. As a consequence, we propose to restrict the circumscription of Canoparmelia to clade 1 (i.e. the C. texana group) and to include clades 2 and 3 in Parmotrema. We propose to recognize these well-supported monophyletic clades at subgeneric level. Consequently, the new subgeneric name Parmotrema subgen. Africanae is proposed for clade 3 recovered in this study. Since clade 4, which clusters with the genera Nesolechia and Punctelia, is only represented by a single sequenced specimen, we refrain from proposing any taxonomic changes. The new combinations Parmotrema epileucum, and P. zimbabwense are proposed.
Seven new species of the genus Xestoleberis (Ostracoda: Podocopida: Cytheroidea) from the Fiji Archipelago
Authors: CHAND PRERNA , KAMIYA TAKAHIRO
Published: December 2016

The genus Xestoleberis has a global distribution, and although they are predominant in shallow marine environments adapted to both sediment and algal habitats, only two species of this genus, Xestoleberis curta (Brady, 1866) and Xestoleberis variegata Brady, 1880, have previously been reported from the Fiji archipelago. Herein we report seven new species of the genus Xestoleberis from intertidal environments of fringing reef flats of the Fiji Islands: Xestoleberis becca n. sp., Xestoleberis concava n. sp., Xestoleberis gracilariaii n. sp., Xestoleberis marcula n. sp., Xestoleberis natuvuensis n. sp., Xestoleberis penna n. sp. and Xestoleberis petrosa n. sp. With the exception of X. becca n. sp., Xestoleberis species show restricted distribution within Fijian waters. The possible causes for their distribution patterns are suggested to be physical barriers imposed by the fast flowing Bligh Water currents, and islands separated by deep ocean waters.
Myolaimus ibericus sp. n. (Nematoda, Rhabditida, Myolaimidae) from southern Iberian Peninsula, with a key to species of the genus
Authors: ABOLAFIA JOAQUÍN , PEÑA-SANTIAGO REYES
Published: December 2016

A new species of the genus Myolaimus is described from agricultural areas in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Myolaimus ibericus sp. n. is characterized by its 560–783 μm long body in females and 526–731 μm in males, cuticle often appearing swollen and baggy, lateral field with one longitudinal wing, lip region with six amalgamated lips having ten (6 + 4) setiform papillae, stoma consisting of a wider anterior chamber (cheilo-gymnostom) and a tubular posterior part (stegostom) separated by a well developed dorsal tooth and two small, lateral (one right and another left) teeth, glottoid-like apparatus structure appearing at metastom, pharyngeal corpus 1.7–2.6 times the isthmus length, excretory pore and deirids located at metacorpus level, deirids pore-like in females and seta-like in males, female reproductive system monodelphic-prodelphic with antidromous ovary, post-uterine sac 1.7–2.7 times the corresponding body diameter long, V = 50–56, female rectum 1.3–2.0 times the anal body diameter long, female tail conical-elongate (54–70 μm, c = 9.9–13.1, c’ = 4.4–5.8) often enveloped by the baggy cuticle, male tail conoid (8–10 μm, c = 58.4–73.1, c’ = 1.1-1.4) and ventrally constricted at its middle, bursal structure with seven (4+1+2) pairs of genital papillae. This is the first record of the genus from the Iberian Peninsula. Description, measurements and illustrations, including SEM photographs are provided. An illustrated compendium of the posterior ends of males in Myolaimus species is also presented.
A new species of Moenkhausia Eigenmann, 1903 (Characiformes: Characidae) from Amazon basin, Brazil
Authors: SOARES ISABEL MATOS , BÜHRNHEIM CRISTINA MOTTA
Published: December 2016

A new species of Moenkhausia is described from tributaries of the lower Amazon basin, Pará State, Brazil. The new species is morphologically similar to Moenkhausia collettii, M. copei, and M. venerei by the presence of a dark horizontal stripe across the middle portion of the eye, a conspicuous slightly rounded humeral blotch, a dark longitudinal midlateral stripe and a dark stripe along the anal-fin base. However, the new species can be distinguished from M. collettii, M. copei, and M. venerei mainly by the number of cusps on the inner row of the premaxillary, maxillary and dentary teeth, and by the number of scales in transversal series above and below the lateral line.
Interannual Variability in the North Atlantic Ocean’s Temperature Field and Its Association with the Wind Stress Forcing
Authors: Groth Andreas , Feliks Yizhak , Kondrashov Dmitri , Ghil Michael
Published: December 2016

Spectral analyses of the North Atlantic temperature field in the Simple Ocean Data Analysis (SODA) reanalysis identify prominent and statistically significant interannual oscillations along the Gulf Stream front and in large regions of the North Atlantic. A 7–8-yr oscillatory mode is characterized by a basinwide southwest-to-northeast–oriented propagation pattern in the sea surface temperature (SST) field. This pattern is found to be linked to a seesaw in the meridional dipole structure of the zonal wind stress forcing (TAUX). In the subpolar gyre, the SST and TAUX fields of this mode are shown to be in phase opposition, which suggests a cooling effect of the wind stress on the upper ocean layer. Over all, this mode’s temperature field is characterized by a strong equivalent-barotropic component, as shown by covariations in SSTs and sea surface heights, and by phase-coherent behavior of temperature layers at depth with the SST field. Recent improvements of multivariate singular spectrum analysis (M-SSA) help separate spatiotemporal patterns. This methodology is developed further and applied to studying the ocean’s response to variability in the atmospheric forcing. Statistical evidence is shown to exist for other mechanisms generating oceanic variability of similar 7–8-yr periodicity in the Gulf Stream region; the latter variability is likewise characterized by a strongly equivalent-barotropic component. Two other modes of biennial variability in the Gulf Stream region are also identified, and it is shown that interannual variability in this region cannot be explained by the ocean’s response to similar variability in the atmospheric forcing alone.
The Exceptionally Warm Winter of 2015/16 in Alaska
Authors: Walsh John E. , Bieniek Peter A. , Brettschneider Brian , Euskirchen Eugénie S. , Lader Rick , Thoman Richard L.
Published: December 2016

Alaska experienced record-setting warmth during the 2015/16 cold season (October–April). Statewide average temperatures exceeded the period-of-record mean by more than 4°C over the 7-month cold season and by more than 6°C over the 4-month late-winter period, January–April. The record warmth raises two questions: 1) Why was Alaska so warm during the 2015/16 cold season? 2) At what point in the future might this warmth become typical if greenhouse warming continues? On the basis of circulation analogs computed from sea level pressure and 850-hPa geopotential height fields, the atmospheric circulation explains less than half of the anomalous warmth. The warming signal forced by greenhouse gases in climate models accounts for about 1°C of the anomalous warmth. A factor that is consistent with the seasonal and spatial patterns of the warmth is the anomalous surface state. The surface anomalies include 1) above-normal ocean surface temperatures and below-normal sea ice coverage in the surrounding seas from which air advects into Alaska and 2) the deficient snowpack over Alaska itself. The location of the maximum of anomalous warmth over Alaska and the late-winter–early-spring increase of the anomalous warmth unexplained by the atmospheric circulation implicates snow cover and its albedo effect, which is supported by observational measurements in the boreal forest and tundra biomes. Climate model simulations indicate that warmth of this magnitude will become the norm by the 2050s if greenhouse gas emissions follow their present scenario.
Ural Blocking as an Amplifier of the Arctic Sea Ice Decline in Winter
Authors: Gong Tingting , Luo Dehai
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the lead–lag relationship between the Arctic sea ice variability over the Barents–Kara Sea (BKS) and Ural blocking (UB) in winter (DJF) ranging from 1979/80 to 2011/12 is examined. It is found that in a regressed DJF-mean field an increased UB frequency (days) corresponds to an enhanced sea ice decline over the BKS, while the high sea surface temperature over the BKS is accompanied by a significant Arctic sea ice reduction. Lagged daily regression and correlation reveal that the growth and maintenance of the UB that is related to the positive North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO+) through the negative east Atlantic/west Russia (EA/WR−) wave train is accompanied by an intensified negative BKS sea ice anomaly, and the BKS sea ice reduction lags the UB pattern by about four days. Because the intensified UB pattern occurs together with enhanced downward infrared radiation (IR) associated with the intensified moisture flux convergence and total column water over the BKS, the UB pattern contributes significantly to the BKS sea ice decrease on a time scale of weeks through intensified positive surface air temperature (SAT) anomalies resulting from enhanced downward IR. It is also found that the BKS sea ice decline can persistently maintain even when the UB has disappeared, thus indicating that the UB pattern is an important amplifier of the BKS sea ice reduction. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the EA/WR− wave train formed by the combined NAO+ and UB patterns is closely related to the amplified warming over the BKS through the strengthening (weakening) of mid-to-high-latitude westerly wind in the North Atlantic (Eurasia).
A Lagrangian Climatology of Wintertime Cold Air Outbreaks in the Irminger and Nordic Seas and Their Role in Shaping Air–Sea Heat Fluxes
Authors: Papritz Lukas , Spengler Thomas
Published: December 2016

Understanding the climatological characteristics of marine cold air outbreaks (CAOs) is of critical importance to constrain the processes determining the heat flux forcing of the high-latitude oceans. In this study, a comprehensive multidecadal climatology of wintertime CAO air masses is presented for the Irminger Sea and Nordic seas. To investigate the origin, transport pathways, and thermodynamic evolution of CAO air masses, a novel methodology based on kinematic trajectories is introduced.

The major conclusions are as follows: (i) The most intense CAOs occur as a result of Arctic outflows following Greenland’s eastern coast from the Fram Strait southward and west of Novaya Zemlya. Weak CAOs also originate in flow across the SST gradient associated with the Arctic Front separating the Greenland and Iceland Seas from the Norwegian Sea. A substantial fraction of Irminger CAO air masses originate in the Canadian Arctic and overflow southern Greenland. (ii) CAOs account for 60%–80% of the wintertime oceanic heat loss associated with few intense CAOs west of Svalbard and in the Greenland, Iceland, and Barents Seas and frequent weak CAOs in the Norwegian and Irminger Seas. (iii) The amount of sensible heat extracted by CAO air masses is set by their intensity and their pathway over the underlying SST distribution, whereas the amount of latent heat is additionally capped by the SST. (iv) Among all CAO air masses, those in the Greenland and Iceland Seas extract the most sensible heat from the ocean and undergo the most intense diabatic warming. Irminger Sea CAO air masses experience only moderate diabatic warming but pick up more moisture than the other CAO air masses.
Impact of Tidal Mixing on Water Mass Transformation and Circulation in the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Liu Zhiyu , Peng Shiqiu
Published: December 2016

Using a high-resolution regional ocean model, the impact of tidal mixing on water mass transformation and circulation in the South China Sea (SCS) is investigated through a set of numerical experiments with different configurations of tide-induced diapycnal diffusivity. The results show that including tidal mixing in both the Luzon Strait (LS) and SCS has significant impact on the LS transport and the intermediate–deep layer circulation in the SCS Basin. Analysis of the density field indicates that tidal mixing in both the LS and SCS are essential for sustaining a consistent density gradient and thus a persistent outward-directed baroclinic pressure gradient both between the western Pacific and LS and between the LS and SCS Basin, so as to maintain the strong deep-water transport through the LS. Further analysis of water mass properties suggests that tidal mixing in the deep SCS would strengthen the horizontal density gradient, intensify the basin-scale cyclonic circulation, induce more vigorous overturning, as well as generate the subbasin-scale eddies in the abyssal SCS. The results imply that tidal mixing in both the LS and SCS plays a key dynamic role in controlling water mass properties and deep circulation features in the SCS and thus need to be deliberately parameterized in ocean circulation models for this region.
New discoveries in the molecular landscape of bladder cancer
Authors: Li Roger , Choi Woonyoung , Ferguson rd J.E. , Metcalfe Michael J. , Kamat Ashish M.
Published: December 2016

We are currently on the cusp of exponential growth in the understanding of the molecular landscape of bladder cancer. Emerging data regarding the mutational burden and targetable genomic and protein alterations in bladder cancer have allowed us to tap into treatments directed toward specific molecular characteristics of bladder cancer. In parallel, these developments will enable us to better select patients for existing treatments of bladder cancer in a step toward personalized therapy. The present article reviews select discoveries that have advanced our understanding of bladder cancer and gives a glimpse of the exciting opportunities on the not-so-distant horizon.
ANALYSIS OF CROP ROTATION SYSTEMS ORGANIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL COMPANIES OF TYUKALINSKY DISTRICT OF OMSK REGION ON THE LANDSCAPE AND ENVIRONMENTAL BASIS
Authors: Маракаева  , Marakaeva Tatyana , Ноженко  , Nozhenko Tatyana
Published: December 2016

Results of the three-year analysis of the organization of systems of crop rotations on a landscape and ecological basis in large-scale enterprises of Tyukalinsky district of the Omsk region are presented in article. In the territory of the agricultural organizations the assessment of ecological condition of lands on the basis of an assessment of the main components of a landscape was carried out: climatic, a relief, vegetation, soils, ground waters, the spreading breeds. It is established that in farms the following types of soils prevail: meadow, marsh, solonetzic soils, malt, meadow and chernozem solonetzic and chernozem and meadow solonetzic. Therefore, there are an average ecological intensity of lands in ООО “Atrachi” - 45.8%, ООО “Chistoe” - 58.9%, ООО “Agrokom” - 1%, and also strong manifestation of processes of remoistening and salinization is revealed (27%, 41,1% and 90% of the total area of an arable land in farms). Critical condition of arable lands is noted in ООО “Atrachi” (27.2%), at the moment they actually aren´t used and aren´t demanded. The analyzed agricultural organizations cultivate grain crops (24.7% - 41.0%), one-year (3.9%-21.4%) and long-term herbs (33.6% - 43.4%). In this regard two types of crop rotations are used: field and fodder. As a result of ecological justification of crop rotations, calculation of balance of a humus has shown that completion of its deficiency requires introduction of a certain amount of organic substances and implementation of replacement of a fallow land on sideralny with a zapakhivaniye of elevated mass of plants to the soil as additional organic fertilizers. After the carried-out analysis us it is recommended to include in crop rotations phytoameliorants, steady against salinization (the tributary white), to make replacement of long-term herbs on steady against remoistening of soils (a ribbon grass reed or a herd grass meadow). The use of correctly designed crop rotations, taking into account all complex of landscape and ecological conditions, will allow to stabilize negative natural and anthropogenous processes, to provide their big ecological stability.
STATE OF ASPEN FORESTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF TATARSTAN AFTER THE DROUGHT OF 2010.
Authors: Сингатуллин  , Singatullin Irek
Published: December 2016

After drought of 2010 in the Republic of Tatarstan aspen was drying. In 2011-2016 a study was conducted to determine the extent of shrinkage, identify patterns in shrinkage of stands, different in age, composition, types of forest conditions, fullness, with laying of temporary and permanent sample plots. The shrinkage reason was the drought of 2010 and the subsequent infection of aspen by bacterial dropsy. The drought has affected all aspen forest zones of the Republic of Tatarstan, a greater degree of attenuation are ripe and overripe aspens. There are no dependencies of shrinkage from the type of forest conditions, composition, completeness and diameter. The carried studies have revealed the dynamics of species change after the continuous sanitary felling in mixed aspen-birch stands, exposed to desiccation. Birch in the forest-steppe zone for its 40 years almost completely lost the ability to coppice after felling and does not participate in the formation of a new stand. After shrinkage of mixed aspen-birch forests the pure aspens of coppice origin with low commodity properties are formed. The nature of drying aspen after bacterial dropsy disease differs from birch: there is thinning of the crown and the bark on the trunk cracking, its peeling it. After drying the wood decay begins on the perimeter in the butt, which together with the inner rot, leading to a breakdown of the trunk at height of 1.0 - 2.5 m, and formation of windbreaks. At the top of the stem above the breaking, the wood remains clean and can be used in the first year as the firewood. It is necessary to tidy shrunken and withering aspen trees in the first year of shrinkage, when the process of timber destruction is not yet begun and timber felling is not associated with risk to life.
PRODUCTIVITY OF STANDS AND EVALUATION OF NATURAL RESTORATION IN COASTAL FORESTS
Authors: Ульданова  , Uldanova Railya , Сабиров  , Sabirov Ayrat
Published: December 2016

Taxation characteristics of stands of coastal forest ecosystem of the Volga region of the Republic of Tatarstan. The generally accepted methods of a research in forest taxation, constant and the temporary trial areas. The researched forest formations: oak, lime, birch, maple, willow, pine, larch. High productivity of pine (Ia-I quality class) and larch (Ia-I), lime (I-II) and birch (Ia-II) plantings. Age of forest stands of a pine - 50-80 years, larches - 48-54 years, lindens - 43-90 years, birches - 33-60 years. Distribution of trees of the prevailing breeds on thickness steps. Statistics of distribution of trees. Differentiation of trees in forest stands (V=19-37%). In plantings a frequent subgrowth of a pine and maple. The insufficient number of subgrowth in the coastal woods. Reasons of weak natural reforestation: the initial stage of forest regeneration process in young plantings; quite powerful forest laying in coniferous ecosystems; distribution of developed heavy sod in birch forests; insufficient amount of light under bed lime phytocenosis, the use of seeds of forest forming breeds by forest fauna; pasturage of the cattle in plantings, adjacent to settlements; the raised recreational load of forest ecosystems; the adverse climatic factors in a forest-steppe zone influencing development of shoots of tree species.
KINEMATICS OF MOVEMENT OF GEAR ROTATIONAL WORKING UNIT
Authors: Хамитов  , Khamitov Radik , Абдрахманов  , Abdrakhmanov Rinat , Булгариев  , Bulgariev Gumar , Калимуллин  , Kalimullin Marat
Published: December 2016

One of the promising working units for pre-sowing soil preparation, in particular, for pre-sowing soil cultivation for potatoes, are still the disk tillage.

Studies of a number of authors determined, that the disc units with continuous cutting edge are more energy intensive, less resistant to running and sensitive to changes in the load and working units with a serrated cutting edge has significant advantages. However, not all gear working units are able to perform advanced agronomic requirements.

The rational parameters of developed by the working units, can only be determined on the basis of a study of the process of its interaction with the soil, but in relation to working units with a serrated cutting edge, this question is poorly understood. Working unit movement with respect to the adopted reference system, can be regarded as fully qualified only, when we know the movement of its each points in the same frame of reference.

Therefore, the disk working unit is considered a with the teeth, the cutting edge of which is made by a logarithmic spiral curve, providing moving cutting of soil and plant remains in motion, and the back edge is in a straight line, connecting the toe of each tooth with the center of the disk.

As a result of calculations, based and the equations of motion for an arbitrary point of the cutting edge of a tooth of a flat disk of the working unit, which allows to build a trajectory in space, determine the velocity and acceleration of the blade points at any given time.
JUSTIFICATION OF ENERGY AND ECONOMIC INDICATIONS OF THE COMBINED TOOL
Authors: Гилязов  , Gilyazov Rashid , Мустафин  , Mustafin Anas , Юнусов  , Yunusov Gubeydulla , Валиев  , Valiev Ayrat , Ахмадеева  , Akhmadeeva Marziya
Published: December 2016

To reduce the negative impact of carriers of machine and tractor units on the ground and to save labor costs, it is necessary to introduce minimum tillage by combining process steps and the use of combined units. At acquisition of combined tillage machine we took into account the technical parameters of instruments and machine’s performing in a single pass such operations, as loosening the soil, making the desired mulching layer, leveling, cutting of crop stubblies and mixing them with the ground, a complete cycle of farming operations in preparing the soil for planting. Researches with methods of extreme experiments planning were conducted. As an active factors are taken: the angle of attack α (°) disk working units, tillage depth H (cm) and the speed of unit movement υ (km/h). An effort no the hook Rkr (kN) and makro-aggregate composition of the soil ε (%) are adopted for the optimization criteria. A working speed of tool makes significant impact on the driving force at operation of milling working units with a rotating speed n=250 revolutions per minute and width B=3 m. Changing the angle of attack of disk working units from 0 to 8 degrees does not cause a significant increase in the draft resistance. This is evident when you install angles, close to 0° and a minimum movement speed of the aggregate. The following operation modes of the tool are optimum: the angle of attack of the spherical disks α=4 degrees, tillage depth is H=8 cm, operating speed of the aggregate u=10 km / h. At the same time the macro – aggregate soil composition is 87.03%. The proposed technology of surface soil cultivation for planting of small-seeded crops is the least energy-intensive, so the energy intensity of 1 hectare of soil, cultivated by combined aggregate with a tractor MTZ-80 under the following conditions: H = 8 ... 10 cm, B = 3 m, υ = 2.7 m/c on medium loamy soil is 442.13 megajoule per hectare, which is to 22% less than that of the base case unit T-150K + RBR-4A
Duty of managers to reduce sharps injuries
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: December 2016

Concern over the number of sharps injuries in the healthcare sector across Europe led to a directive aimed at preventing such injuries ( Council Directive 2010/32/EU ). The provisions of the directive were implemented by the Health and Safety (Sharps Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013. This article outlines the key duties of managers under 2013 regulations.
A way forward: Process mapping and the delivery of mental health services
Authors: McIntosh Bryan , Breen Liz , West Sue
Published: December 2016

Introduction:

This paper demonstrates the practical application of process mapping principles as a model for evaluating NHS improvement. The NHS improvement in question was the merger of three crisis resolution teams within an NHS trust in 2012. The aims were to improve overall operational efficiency and enhance multidisciplinary working to meet operational targets. This paper examined changes following the merger to capture the effects of service improvement and the reality of the patient journey.

Methods:

A pooled cross-sectional approach, using six years of aggregated hospital data, was taken. To achieve operational efficiency, a process map of referrals, readmissions, length of stay and waiting times for crisis resolution team assessments was examined. Prevalence of clinical referral rates and disease classification before and after the merger were compared.

Conclusion:

Between 1 April 2009 and 30 March 2015, length of stay and readmissions for patients to crisis resolution team rates reduced. Operational sustainability and capacity was enhanced through the redistribution of clinical human resources. Multidisciplinary skill mix (e.g. through improved team composition) also improved.
An effective response to bullying
Authors: Wanless Peter
Published: December 2016

Figures from the NSPCC's Childline show that it supports thousands of young victims of bullying every year. Peter Wanless discusses what an effective whole-school response to bullying looks like
LGBTQ students are still experiencing high levels of bullying: What can we do?
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: December 2016

Bullying is associated with a number of negative outcomes that can impact adversely on a person's physical and mental health. A whole-systems approach is required to tackle homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying in schools. This article looks at the role school nurses can play.
Assessment of the physical school environment of selected private high schools in Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunfowokan Adesola Adenike , Esan Deborah Tolulope , Salau Omowumi Romoke , Bamidele Yetunde Rasheedat , Ojo Damilola Esther
Published: December 2016

The physical elements in the school have a discernible effect on learners’ academic performances and staff productivity. This study determined teachers’ and students’ knowledge of a healthy physical school environment (HPSE) and identified available facilities for HPSE. It also identified headteachers’ perceived strategies for improving the physical school environment. The study setting consisted of 18 private high schools located in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. A total of 102 teachers and 180 students participated in the study. Cross-sectional descriptive design was employed using quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Results showed that the majority of the participants had good knowledge of HPSE, few schools made use of pit latrines, but many did not have school clinics. Enforcement of policy on HPSE was suggested as strategies for improving the physical environment of schools. It is essential that private high schools are monitored to improve their physical school environment for improved health of learners and positive learning outcomes.
Research roundup
Authors: Costello John
Published: December 2016

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Laser Therapy Versus Conventional Therapy in the Treatment of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
Authors: Chen Chen-Ling , Chuang Hua-Ying , Chang Cheng-Chiang , Ku Chih-Hung , Chang Shin-Tsu
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) can induce defective biomechanics and cause sacroiliac (SI) joint stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether successful therapy of MTSS normalizes SI joint stress.
Methods: Fifty-three patients with MTSS and SI joint stress confirmed by nuclear scintigraphy were enrolled in this prospective trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive laser therapy or conventional therapy. Patients in the laser therapy group underwent 15 laser sessions over a 5-day period (60 seconds in duration, three times per day). The SI ratio was measured using quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy (QSS) before and after therapy. Outcome measures included Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Generalized estimating equation models were used to evaluate the associations of LEFS. We adjusted for the correlations between QSS and different parts of the SI joint, and adjusted for potential confounders as well.
Results: Age, body weight, and duration did not correlate with QSS or lateralization. There was no significant difference in QSS and laterality of MTSS. However, the LEFS measured after therapy were significantly increased 38.45 (P < 0.0001) from LEFS measured before therapy. The QSS was significantly lower after therapy (P < 0.0001), indicating that successful therapy of MTSS has a buttom-up effect on SI joint stress (P < 0.0001). There was also a significant association between the middle part and the lower part of the SI joint. The QSS for the middle part on both sides was significantly higher than that for the lower part (P = 0.0250).
Conclusion: SI joint stress due to bottom-up processing of MTSS can be normalized after successful therapy of MTSS by either laser therapy or conventional therapy.
Management of the Terrible Triad Injury of the Elbow: A Case Series Retrospective Review
Authors: Cruz-Calvente Carmen , Nieto-Blasco Javier , Fernández-Cuadros Marcos E. , Fernández-Palacio Pelayo , García-García Javier , Blanco-Blanco Juan Fco
Published: December 2016

Objectives: To expose our experience in the multidisciplinary management of patients with terrible triad injury of the elbow (TTIE) treated in our hospital.
Material and methods: A descriptive-retrospective study including all patients with TTIE treated surgically between January/2008-December/2014.
The analyzed variables were demographic, etiologic, type of fracture (Mason, Reagan and Morrey Scale), type of surgery/approaching technique, time between injury-surgery, immobilization period, range-of-movement (ROM) before/after treatment, and complications.
An assessment before/after the treatment using analogical visual scale (AVS), goniometry and Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) was carried out.
Results: A total of 12 patients were included. The most common cause was accidental fall (75%). All fractures were surgically treated (mean 4.6 days after injury) with subsequent detention (29 days average). The surgical approach was lateral (n=8), posterior (n=2), and both lateral and medial (n=2).
The increase in the flexion/extension ROM was 27.27º/24.09º, in pronation/supination was 23.65º/23.9º. The initial/final AVS was 4.46/2.16. In MEPI scale, 9 patients had excellent-good results, 2 regular, and one underwent bad response. Only one patient had complications during the follow up period.
All patients were treated surgically promptly and immobilized for a month. As the MEPI states, the results of our series are acceptable. This is in accordance with present day reports.
Conclusions: The clinical results of the series are consistent in relation to the literature. The results suggest that an integral, multidisciplinary approach (surgical and rehabilitation) for the TTIE must be achieved. Despite the small series and the infrequent appearance of the pathology, no cases were lost during the study.
Colonial State Terror in Puerto Rico: A Research Agenda
Authors: Atiles-Osoria José
Published: December 2016

This article puts forth the concept of colonial state terror as a category for the analysis of political violence in the Puerto Rican colonial conflict by US and Puerto Rican governments and pro-state organizations. To this end, the article is divided into four parts. First, it provides a short historical overview of Puerto Rico's colonial history; second, it explores US colonialism through the concept of the colonial state of exception; third, it explicates the concept of colonial state terror; and fourth, it develops a brief history of the uses of colonial state terror in the long history of US colonialism in Puerto Rico. In doing so, this article seeks to contribute to the development of a more nuanced research agenda focused on the relationship between colonialism, political violence, law and processes of depoliticization.
Corporate Agents and Individual Criminal Liability under the Rome Statute
Authors: de Leeuw Lydia
Published: December 2016

This article evaluates the relevance and viability of holding corporate agents accountable under the Rome Statute for their role in international crimes. The legal analysis focuses on two modes of liability: contribution liability under article 25 (3) (d) (ii) and superior responsibility under article 28 (b). Three case studies will assess the potential individual criminal liability of corporate officials in relation to situations currently either under investigation or preliminary examination by the Prosecutor, namely the Democratic Republic of Congo, Palestine, and Honduras. The article aims to advance insights into how the involvement of corporate actors in international crimes can and ought to be an integral part of the legal and factual analysis of international crimes.