bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contoured Urbanism: People, Property and Infrastructures in the Indian Himalayas
Authors: Negi Rohit , Thakur Kesang , Ali Syed Shoaib
Published: January 2017

The broad success of development initiatives and ensuing material prosperity in rural areas of the Indian Himalayas have seen an increasing number of families route their increased surpluses to nearby urban areas in search of speculative footholds. Yet, the region continues to be viewed as essentially rural by policy and academic literatures. This article critiques this association by focusing on social-spatial change in the town of Banjar in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. We turn our attention to the stories of property and infrastructures that connect households, contractors, workers and materials, as well as the collectives that emerge or are reconfigured alongside these built environments. The article shows how upward mobility is accompanied by new susceptibilities, how an unlikely and understudied set of agents drives urban change in the absence of formal planning and how inherited hierarchies are being renegotiated through everyday practices to produce what we call ‘contoured urbanism’, or the uneven but geographically situated form of urbanisation in parts of the Himalayan region. The article makes the case for critical urban research as a productive entry point into debates on regional futures.
Sonographic View of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
Authors: Smith Marie
Published: January 2017

A particular pelvic pathology that may not be recognized, and is easily missed, is pelvic congestion syndrome. There is limited understanding about this condition, and many sonographers may have limited to no knowledge of this disorder. This article is to bring an awareness of this condition and the sonographic images necessary to obtain, so that further testing and possible treatment could relieve the patient of symptoms. Since a pelvic sonogram is generally the first modality of choice when an assessment of the pelvic organs is ordered, detailed imaging of all the pelvic region should be evaluated, including the vessels within this area. When evaluating a patient with chronic pelvic pain and visualizing any dilated vessels during a transabdominal or transvaginal sonogram, further imaging and documentation are essential. With this additional information, further testing with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, along with a venogram, may result in a definitive diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome to facilitate treatment.
Endometrial Ablation: A Tale of Two Women
Authors: Barymon Deanna , DuBose Cheryl O.
Published: January 2017

Endometrial ablation procedures are growing in popularity for the treatment of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea. Sonography is the modality of choice in the evaluation of patients prior to ablation and as a follow-up for any postprocedure complications. After ablation, conditions including hematometra, postablation tubal sterilization syndrome, postablation endometriosis, and pregnancy complications have been documented. Sonographers should be aware of the conditions associated with endometrial ablations and the variety of sonographic findings that may be present.
Complete genome sequence of Lutibacter profundi LP1T isolated from an Arctic deep-sea hydrothermal vent system
Authors: Wissuwa Juliane , Bauer Sven Le Moine , Steen Ida Helene , Stokke Runar
Published: January 2017

Lutibacter profundi LP1T within the family Flavobacteriaceae was isolated from a biofilm growing on the surface of a black smoker chimney at the Loki’s Castle vent field, located on the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge. The complete genome of L. profundi LP1T is the first genome to be published within the genus Lutibacter. L. profundi LP1T consists of a single 2,966,978 bp circular chromosome with a GC content of 29.8%. The genome comprises 2,537 protein-coding genes, 40 tRNA species and 2 rRNA operons. The microaerophilic, organotrophic isolate contains genes for all central carbohydrate metabolic pathways. However, genes for the oxidative branch of the pentose-phosphate-pathway, the glyoxylate shunt of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the ATP citrate lyase for reverse TCA are not present. L. profundi LP1T utilizes starch, sucrose and diverse proteinous carbon sources. In accordance, the genome harbours 130 proteases and 104 carbohydrate-active enzymes, indicating a specialization in degrading organic matter. Among a small arsenal of 24 glycosyl hydrolases, which offer the possibility to hydrolyse diverse poly- and oligosaccharides, a starch utilization cluster was identified. Furthermore, a variety of enzymes may be secreted via T9SS and contribute to the hydrolytic variety of the microorganism. Genes for gliding motility are present, which may enable the bacteria to move within the biofilm. A substantial number of genes encoding for extracellular polysaccharide synthesis pathways, curli fibres and attachment to surfaces could mediate adhesion in the biofilm and may contribute to the biofilm formation. In addition to aerobic respiration, the complete denitrification pathway and genes for sulphide oxidation e.g. sulphide:quinone reductase are present in the genome. sulphide:quinone reductase and denitrification may serve as detoxification systems allowing L. profundi LP1T to thrive in a sulphide and nitrate enriched environment. The information gained from the genome gives a greater insight in the functional role of L. profundi LP1T in the biofilm and its adaption strategy in an extreme environment.
Fresh-Frozen Plasma: Ordering Patterns and Utilization in the Operating Rooms of a Tertiary Referral Hospital
Authors: Meyer Matthew J. , Dzik Walter H. , Levine Wilton C.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND:

Blood product transfusion is the most commonly performed hospital procedure. Intraoperative blood product utilization varies between institutions and anesthesiologists. In the United States in 2011, nearly 4 million plasma units were transfused.

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis of intraoperative plasma ordering patterns and utilization (thawing and transfusing) was performed at a tertiary, academic hospital between January 2015 and March 2016.

RESULTS:

Over 15 months, 46,002 operative procedures were performed. In 1540 of them, plasma was thawed or transfused: 8297 plasma units were thawed and 3306 of those units were transfused. These 3306 plasma units were transfused in 749 cases with a median of 2 plasma units (interquartile range, 2–4) transfused. The percentage of average monthly procedures with plasma thawed and none transfused was 51.3% (confidence interval, 49.0%–53.6%). The cardiac surgery service requested the greatest number of plasma units to be thawed (2143) but only transfused 712 (33.2%) of them. Of all plasma units not transfused, 45% were generated by procedures with 1 to 4 units of plasma thawed; 95.7% of these units were thawed as even integers (ie, 2, 4).

CONCLUSIONS:

For operative procedures, far more plasma was thawed than was transfused and this practice occurred across surgical specialties and anesthesiologists. Considering the plasma that was not transfused, 45% occurred in procedures with 4 or fewer units of plasma requested suggesting these low-volume requests were a primary source of potential waste. Further studies are needed to examine associations between plasma utilization and clinical outcomes.
Economic Evaluation of Pharmacologic Pre- and Postconditioning With Sevoflurane Compared With Total Intravenous Anesthesia in Liver Surgery: A Cost Analysis
Authors: Eichler Klaus , Urner Martin , Twerenbold Claudia , Kern Sabine , Brügger Urs , Spahn Donat R. , Beck-Schimmer Beatrice , Ganter Michael T.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND:

Pharmacologic pre- and postconditioning with sevoflurane compared with total IV anesthesia in patients undergoing liver surgery reduced complication rates as shown in 2 recent randomized controlled trials. However, the potential health economic consequences of these different anesthesia regimens have not yet been assessed.

METHODS:

An expostcost analysis of these 2 trials in 129 patients treated between 2006 and 2010 was performed. We analyzed direct medical costs for in-hospital stay and compared pharmacologic pre- and postconditioning with sevoflurane (intervention) with total IV anesthesia (control) from the perspective of a Swiss university hospital. Year 2015 costs, converted to US dollars, were derived from hospital cost accounting data and compared with a multivariable regression analysis adjusting for relevant covariables. Costs with negative prefix indicate savings and costs with positive prefix represent higher spending in our analysis.

RESULTS:

Treatment-related costs per patient showed a nonsignificant change by −12,697 US dollars (95% confidence interval [CI], 10,956 to −36,352; P = .29) with preconditioning and by −6139 US dollars (95% CI, 6723 to −19,000; P = .35) with postconditioning compared with the control group. Results were robust in our sensitivity analysis. For both procedures (control and intervention) together, major complications led to a significant increase in costs by 86,018 US dollars (95% CI, 13,839-158,198; P = .02) per patient compared with patients with no major complications.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this cost analysis, reduced in-hospital costs by pharmacologic conditioning with sevoflurane in patients undergoing liver surgery are suggested. This possible difference in costs compared with total IV anesthesia is the result of reduced complication rates with pharmacologic conditioning, because major complications have significant cost implications.
Novel swine model of ricin-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Katalan Shahaf , Falach Reut , Rosner Amir , Goldvaser Michael , Brosh-Nissimov Tal , Dvir Ayana , Mizrachi Avi , Goren Orr , Cohen Barak , Gal Yoav , Sapoznikov Anita , Ehrlich Sharon , Sabo Tamar , Kronman Chanoch
Published: January 2017

Pulmonary exposure to the plant toxin ricin, leads to respiratory insufficiency and death. To date, in-depth study of the functional disorders ensuing pulmonary intoxication, a prerequisite for establishing a clinically-relevant therapeutic protocol, is hampered by the lack of an appropriate animal model. To this end, we set up the pig, as a large animal model for the comprehensive study of the multifarious clinical manifestations of pulmonary ricinosis.

Here we report for the first time, the monitoring of barometric whole body plethysmography for pulmonary function tests in non-anesthetized ricin-intoxicated pigs. Up to 30 hours post-exposure, as a result of progressing hypoxemia and to prevent carbon dioxide retention, animals exhibited a compensatory response of elevation in Minute Volume, attributed mainly to a robust elevation in respiratory rate with minimal response in tidal volume. This response was followed by decompensation, manifested by a descent in Minute Volume and severe hypoxemia, refractory to oxygen treatment. Radiological evaluation revealed evidence of early diffuse bi-lateral pulmonary infiltrates while hemodynamic parameters remained unchanged, excluding cardiac failure as an explanation for respiratory insufficiency. Ricin-intoxicated pigs suffered from increased lung permeability accompanied by cytokine storming while histological studies revealed lung tissue insults accumulating over time, up to the development of diffuse alveolar damage. Charting the decline in PaO2/FiO2 ratio in a mechanically-ventilated pig, confirmed that ricin-induced respiratory damage complies with the accepted diagnostic criteria for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. The establishment of this animal model of pulmonary ricinosis, should assist us in our pursuit of efficient medical countermeasures, specifically-tailored to deal with the respiratory deficiencies stemming from ricin-induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Schwann cells are activated by ATP released from neurons in an in vitro cellular model of Miller Fisher syndrome
Authors: Rodella Umberto , Negro Samuele , Scorzeto Michele , Bergamin Elisanna , Jalink Kees , Montecucco Cesare , Yuki Nobuhiro , Rigoni Michela
Published: January 2017

The neuromuscular junction is exposed to different types of insults including mechanical traumas, toxins or autoimmune antibodies and, accordingly, has retained through evolution a remarkable ability to regenerate. Regeneration is driven by multiple signals that are exchanged among the cellular components of the junction. These signals are largely unknown.

Miller Fisher syndrome is a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome caused by autoimmune antibodies specific for epitopes of peripheral axon terminals. Using an animal model of Miller Fisher syndrome, we recently reported that a monoclonal anti-polysialoganglioside GQ1b antibody plus complement damages nerve terminals with production of mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide, that activates Schwann cells. Several additional signaling molecules are likely to be involved in the activation of the regenerative program in these cells.

Using an in vitro cellular model consisting of co-cultured primary neurons and Schwann cells, we found that ATP is released by neurons injured by the anti-GQ1b antibody plus complement. Neuron derived ATP acts as alarm messenger for Schwann cells, where it induces the activation of intracellular pathways including calcium signaling, cyclic AMP and CREB, which in turn produce signals that promote nerve regeneration.

These results contribute to define the cross-talk taking place at the neuromuscular junction attacked by anti-gangliosides autoantibodies plus complement, functional to nerve regeneration, that are likely to be valid also for other peripheral neuropathies.
Human cactin interacts with DHX8 and SRRM2 to assure efficient pre-mRNA splicing and sister chromatid cohesion
Authors: Zanini Isabella M. Y. , Soneson Charlotte , Lorenzi Luca E. , Azzalin Claus M.
Published: January 2017

Cactins constitute a family of eukaryotic proteins broadly conserved from yeast to human and required for fundamental processes such as cell proliferation, genome stability maintenance, organismal development and immune response. Cactin proteins have been found to associate with the spliceosome in several model organisms, nevertheless their molecular functions await elucidation. Here we show that depletion of human cactin leads to premature sister chromatid separation, genome instability and cell proliferation arrest. Moreover, cactin is essential for efficient splicing of thousands of pre-mRNAs, and incomplete splicing of the pre-mRNA of sororin (also known as CDCA5), a cohesin-associated factor, is largely responsible for the aberrant chromatid separation in cactin-depleted cells. Lastly, cactin physically and functionally interacts with the spliceosome-associated factors DHX8 and SRRM2. We propose that cellular complexes comprising cactin, DHX8 and SRRM2 sustain precise chromosome segregation, genome stability and cell proliferation by allowing faithful splicing of specific pre-mRNAs. Our data point to novel pathways of gene expression regulation dependent on cactin, and provide an explanation for the pleiotropic dysfunctions deriving from cactin inactivation in distant eukaryotes.
Lactobacillus plantarum favors the early emergence of fit and fertile adult Drosophila upon chronic undernutrition
Authors: Téfit Mélisandre A. , Leulier François
Published: January 2017

Animals are naturally surrounded by a variety of microorganisms with which they constantly interact. Among these microbes, some live closely associated with a host and form its microbiota. These communities are now extensively studied, owing to their contributions to shaping various aspects of animal physiology. One of these commensal species, Lactobacillus plantarum, and in particular the L.p.WJL strain, has been shown to promote the growth of Drosophila larvae upon nutrient scarcity, allowing earlier metamorphosis and adult emergence compared to axenic individuals. As for many insects, conditions surrounding the post-embryonic development dictate key adult life history traits in Drosophila, and adjusting developmental timing according to the environment is essential for adult fitness. Thus, we wondered if the growth acceleration induced by L.p.WJL in a context of poor nutrition could adversely impact the fitness of Drosophila adults. Here we show that the L.p.WJL-mediated acceleration of growth is not deleterious; adults emerging after an accelerated development are as fit as their axenic siblings. Additionally, L.p.WJL's presence even leads to a lifespan extension in nutritionally challenged males. These results demonstrate that L.p.WJL is a beneficial partner for Drosophila melanogaster through its entire life cycle. Thus commensal bacteria allow the earlier emergence and longer survival of fit and fertile individuals and might represent one of the factors contributing to the ecological success of Drosophila.
Paediatric bone and joint infection
Authors: Iliadis Alexios D. , Ramachandran Manoj
Published: January 2017

Despite advances in understanding and management, paediatric osteoarticular infections continue to pose diagnostic difficulties for clinicians. Delays in diagnosis can lead to potentially devastating morbidity. No single investigation, including joint aspiration, is sufficiently reliable to diagnose conclusively paediatric bone and joint infection. Diagnosis should be based on a combination of clinical signs, imaging and laboratory investigations. Algorithms should supplement, and not replace, clinical decision making in all cases. The roles of aspiration, arthrotomy and arthroscopy in the treatment of septic arthritis are not clearly defined. There is a very limited role for surgery in the management of acute haematogenous osteomyelitis. The ideal duration and mode of administration of antibiotic therapy for osteoarticular paediatric infection is not yet fully defined but there is increasing evidence that shorter courses (three weeks) and early conversion (day four) to oral administration is safe and effective in appropriate cases. Clear and concise antibiotic guidelines should be available based on local population characteristics, pathogens and their sensitivities. Kingella kingae is increasingly identified through polymerase chain reaction and is now recognised as the commonest pathogen in children aged under four years. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Panton-Valentine leukocidin-producing strains of Staph. aureus are being increasingly reported. A multidisciplinary integrated evidence-based approach is required to optimise outcomes. Further large-scale, multicentre studies are needed to delineate the optimal management of paediatric osteoarticular infection.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;1:7-12. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160027.
Type 2 diabetes therapeutic strategies: why don't we see the «ELEPHANT» in the room?
Authors: Levit Shmuel , Giveon Shmuel , Philippov Yury I. , Panchev Domuschiev Ivan , Zivony Amir
Published: January 2017

During the past two decades, the unequivocally recommended treatment method of Type 2 diabetes mellitus was insulin administration and intensification in the earliest possible stage of the diagnosis. This approach is not only unfounded but was never scientifically proven. Yet, it has been zealously advocated to medical professionals. In fact, a sound body of evidence disproves this long-standing treatment approach. This method is a cornerstone of, what we now know to be two great illusions of past century, namely, glucocentrism and intensification. Numerous recently published studies provide alarming data regarding serious side effects of blind intensification and insulin overdosing in T2DM. They raise major concerns and call for revision of the traditional approach. Since insulin is an integral and deeply rooted part of the intensification agenda of treating T2DM, it has now suffered a serious drawback. Alternatively, in this review authors present the novel Gravicentric (Energy) concept of T2DM acceptance and therapy. They offer a new classification of anti-diabetes drugs based on their energy effect and present their Gravicentric Algorithm for wide practical utilization. For that reason, the "ELEPHANT" abbreviation was found as a helpful reminder. Viewing T2DM as disease of energy balance together with anti – energy drugs implementation provide medical doctors an unique opportunity to transform T2DM from "slowly – progressive" disease to rapidly reversible condition, which it actually is.
Serum levels of endothelial monocyte activating polypeptide-II in type 1 diabetes patients with microangyopathy and arterial hypertention.
Authors: Mogylnytska Liliya A. , Mankovsky Boris N.
Published: January 2017

Aim. Тo determine the serum level of EMAP-II in type 1 diabetic patients with microangyopathy and arterial hypertention.Materials and methods We examined 23 type 1 diabetic patient with microangyopathy and arterial hypertention, 10 type 1 diabetic patient with microangyopathy without hypertention and 28 control subjects. Serum levels of EMAP-II were determined by immunoenzyme assay. The data were presented as means±SD.  Results. We found an increased serum level of EMAP-II in type 1 diabetic patients with microangyopathy and arterial hypertention compared to control group (5,23±1,66 ng/ml and 1,25±0,76 ng/ml respectively, р0,01), and in type 1 diabetic patients with microangyopathy and arterial hypertension compared to group without hypertension (5,23±1,66 ng/ml and 3,63±1,9 ng/ml respectively, р0,01). Also, the level of EMAP-II correlated with key markers of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, inverse correlated with endothelium-dependent dilatation (p0,05).Conclusion. The revealed change of EMAP-II could reflect an endothelial dysfunction in patients with type 1 diabetes with microangyopathy and arterial hypertension. Arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia appears to be significant factor to contributing elevation of EMAP-II.Keywords: Endothelial monocyte activating polypeptide II, endothelial dysfunction, type 1 diabetes, arterial hypertension.
The role of gut microbiota in metabolic regulation
Authors: Kravchuk Ekaterina N. , Neimark Alexander E. , Grineva Elena N. , Galagudza Mikhail M.
Published: January 2017

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are among the major problems of modern society. The increase in obesity is associated with a corresponding increase in type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. A huge amount of scientific research has been devoted to the development of methods to reduce obesity and its complications. In recent years, attention has shifted towards studying the intestinal microbiota not only as a possible component of the pathological process but also as a target of therapeutic intervention. Recent evidence, primarily from investigations in animal models, suggests that the intestinal microbiota affects nutrient acquisition and energy regulation. This review will discuss the role of the intestinal microbiota in metabolic processes as well as the latest developments on the improvement of disturbances specific to obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Clinical and metabolic factors associated with chronic low-grade inflammation in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Klimontov Vadim V. , Tyan Nadezda V. , Fazullina Olga N. , Myakina Natalia E. , Lykov Alexander P. , Konenkov Vladimir I.
Published: January 2017

Aim. To identify the clinical and metabolic factors associated with serum concentration of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and α1-acid glycoprotein (α1-AGP) in patients with type 2 diabetes.Material and methods. The study involved 210 patients with type 2 diabetes. Levels of hsCRP and α1-AGP were measured using ELISA and compared with those of the control (30 healthy normal individuals). Levels of acute-phase proteins, fat mass and glucose variability (GV) were compared among demographic, anthropometric, biochemical and haematological parameters. The fat mass was determined with Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). GV parameters including mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions, continuous overlapping net glycaemic action (CONGA), J-index, M-value and mean absolute glucose change (MAG) were derived from continuous glucose monitoring.Results. Levels of hsCRP and α1-AGP significantly increased (p 0.0001) in patients with diabetes compared with controls. hsCRP level positively correlated with total, truncal and android fat (r = 0.34, r = 0.28 and r = 0.31; respectively, p 0.00004). α1-AGP level showed no relationship with fat mass but positively correlated with mean glucose, CONGA, M-value and MAG (r = 0.38, r = 0.36, r = 0.43 and r = 0.4; respectively, p 0.0001). Patients with the highest hsCRP levels (75 percentile) had a greater body mass index (p = 0.00009) as well as truncal and android fat mass (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively) than those with the lowest levels (25 percentile). High level of α1-AGP (75 percentile) was associated with urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (p = 0.01) and GV indices (M-value: p = 0.02, MAG: p = 0.04).Conclusions. Levels of acute-phase proteins (hsCRP and α1-AGP) increased in patients with type 2 diabetes. Levels of hsCRP were associated with fat mass; meanwhile, α1-AGP levels were associated with short-time GV in these patients. The results lend support to the notion that both obesity and enhanced GV are involved in the development of chronic low-grade inflammation associated with type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance: the conflict between biological settings of energy metabolism and human lifestyle (a glance at the problem from evolutionary viewpoint)
Authors: Titov Vladimir Nicolaevich , Shirinsky Vladimir Pavlovich
Published: January 2017

A biological function of the phylogenetically late humoral mediator insulin is to provide energy substrates for locomotion, i.e. movement resulting from contraction of striated muscles. Insulin is able to meet this evolutionary demand of an organism by means of the effective ATP production in the mitochondria. Exogenous fatty acids, optimised endogenous fatty acids produced from glucose and glucose itself are the major substrates for ATP synthesis. Cells stimulated by insulin produce ω-9 С18:1 oleic acid from glucose. This fatty acid is oxidised by the mitochondria at a higher rate than exogenous and endogenous C16:0 palmitic fatty acid. In the normal state of insulin system and mitochondria, the frequent cause of insulin resistance is the non-optimal properties of dietary fatty acids supplied for oxidation by the mitochondria. Dietary excess of saturated palmitic fatty acid over monogenic oleic fatty acid causes insulin resistance to develop. Insulin resistance syndrome is the condition of in vivo energy deficiency and insufficient production of ATP for the realisation of the biological adaptation and compensation. Insulin effectively inhibits lipolysis only in phylogenetically late subcutaneous adipocytes but not in phylogenetically early visceral fat cells of the omentum. Discrepancy in the regulation of energy substrate metabolism against the background of a ‘relative biological perfection’ of higher mammals is the aetiological basis of insulin resistance.
Diagnostic value of islet autoantibody assays practised in Russia. 1. Classic immunofluorescence islet cell antibody assay, immunoradiometric glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody assay, and ELISA tyrosine phosphatase antibody and insulin antibody assays
Authors: Timofeev Alexei V. , Gorst Ksenia A. , Uvarov Valentin Y. , Pronina Ekaterina A. , Vitebskaya Alisa V. , Popovich Anastasiya V. , Tiulpakov Anatoliy N. , Zubkova Natalia A. , Gioeva Olesya A. , Tikhonovich Yulia V. , Ilin Alexander V. , Latyshev Oleg Y. , Okminjan Goar F. , Kabolova Ksenia L. , Kanokova Julianna A. , Zhuleva Leokadia Y. , Koltunov Igor E. , Petriaikina Elena E. , Rybkina Irina G. , Garyaeva Irina V. , Guguchia Salome L. , Shimarova Angelina B. , Bullikh Artiom V. , Kolomina Irina G. , Evsyukova Evgenia A. , Bukin Sergei S. , Egarmina Natalia N. , Arbatskaya Natalia Y. , Yanovskaya Elina Y. , Popenko Vladimir I. , Arkhipkin Alexander A.
Published: January 2017

Objective. To estimate performance characteristics and diagnostic value of immunofluorescent islet cell antibody (ICA) assay, immunoradiometric glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA) assay, and ELISA tyrosine phosphatase IA-2 antibody (IA-2A) and insulin antibody (IA) assays.Research Design and Methods. Antibodies were tested in 438 children and adolescents with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) type 1, and in 891 subjects without DM type 1. ICA were determined by the classic indirect immunofluorescent method recommended by the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International, GADA were determined with the Immunotech IRMA Anti-GAD kit, and IA-2A and IA were determined with Medizym Anti-IA2 and Orgentec Anti-Insulin ELISA kits, respectively. Sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of the tests were estimated with contingency tables. Diagnostic accuracy was estimated from areas under receiver operating curves (AUC).Results. ICA test was of the greatest diagnostic value (Se=88%, Sp=96%, PPV=96%, NPV=94%, AUC=0,94), followed by IA-2A (Se=66%, Sp=98%, PPV=98%, NPV=59%, AUC=0,82) and GADA (Se=73%, Sp=84%, PPV=75%, NPV=83%, AUC=0,79). IA test exhibited a very low Se (4,3%) and lacked diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0,5).Conclusions. We recommend to use ICA, IA-2A and GADA tests surveyed in our study for diagnosis of DM type 1 and differential diagnosis of DM. We don’t recommend IA testing with an Orgentec Anti-Insulin ELISA kit for usage in clinical practice.
On the 100th anniversary of academician Y.H. Turakulov
Authors: Chernikov Alexander Alexandrovich , Sklyanik Igor Alexandrovich , Shestakova Marina Vladimirovna
Published: January 2017

Yalkin Halmatovich Turakulov is an internationally known medical researcher whose name is firmly engrained into the history of national endocrinology. He headed the Pharmaceutical Medical Institute, Tashkent Medical Institute, Regional Institute of Medicine, Institute of Nuclear Physics of Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry and others institutions various times and was involved in the establishment of many of them. He was a teacher to many doctors and scientists. This article presents his biography and describes his impact on national and world science.
Understanding the NS/NNS division of labor in the creation and assessment of a Japanese university English entrance exam
Authors: Brown Charles Allen
Published: January 2017

The native speaker (NS) traditionally enjoyed a powerful position in language education. Later, critical applied linguists came to question this situation, arguing for the value of the non-native speaking (NNS) teacher. Despite this, research documents the status retained by the NS in language education in Japan. The present study adds to this discussion through an examination of one case in which NS and NNS work side by side: creating and assessing an entrance exam for one university in Japan. Drawing upon ethnographic methods, I examine differences in the involvement of these two groups in these processes with a focus upon the beliefs about language associated with this division of labor. Rather than indicating a situation in which NS linguistic knowledge simply trumped that held by the Japanese faculty, results reveal a more nuanced situation: The Japanese faculty guided the NS to adapt their language to align with what they – the Japanese faculty – viewed as language appropriate for such an exam. This paper is significant in elaborating upon the relationship between the NS and NNS in language education while also shedding light on practices surrounding university entrance exams.
To postpone or not to postpone? Examining access policy on early foreign language learning from second language acquisition and language planning and policy perspectives
Authors: Zein Mochamad Subhan
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the suggestion to postpone instruction on early foreign language learning, from both second language acquisition (SLA) and language planning and policy (LPP) perspectives. Contrary to the widely held belief that SLA research on age effects can inform policymakers as to when to start instruction, this paper demonstrates that such research may not offer much to language policymaking. The paper argues that the use of a more pragmatic approach in the transdisciplinarity of SLA and LPP emphasizing research into the benefits of instruction for children should be the underpinning SLA-based rationale for early foreign language learning policies. The paper contends that collaborative work between policymakers and researchers working in LPP and/or SLA domains in an SLA-LPP consortium could help address the problems occurring in the micro-context of policy interpretation and enactment with a primary focus oninput enhancementrather thanpostponement.
Inside in French
Authors: Gréa Philippe
Published: January 2017

This article concerns five French prepositions that mark an inclusion relation and are ordinarily considered to be synonyms ofdans‘in’. The first is a simple preposition:parmi‘among’. The other four are complex prepositions built from nouns of internal location (au centre de‘at the centre of’,au milieu de‘in the middle of’) and from names of body parts (au cœur de‘at the heart of’ andau sein dewhose word-for-word translation is ‘at the breast/bosom of’ but stands for ‘within’ ‘in’ or ‘among’ depending on the context). We will examine them from two different, yet complementary points of view. As part of a statistical approach, we use an association measure to determine the distributional trends of each preposition. In addition, we explore in greater detail the semantic mechanisms brought into play using the theoretical framework of Cognitive Grammar. This double analysis leads us to demonstrate that these prepositions are far from synonymous and involve very different types of constraints.
Validity and reliability of insomnia severity index and its correlation with pittsburgh sleep quality index in poor sleepers among Indian university students
Authors: Veqar Zubia , Hussain Mohammed Ejaz
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Insomnia severity index (ISI) is a widely used scale in various demographic groups but its psychometric properties have not been established in a sample of Indian subjects. This study was conducted as a preliminary study to extend and confirm the applicability of ISI to an Indian population of university students and to establish its correlation with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

Materials and methods:

The study was conducted among the student population of Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India, with due approval by the institutional ethical committee. Twenty-five poor sleepers with a mean age of 25.24±7.04 years and a BMI of 24.2±2.5 kg/m2 were recruited for the study from the university population. They were administered ISI and PSQI on test day and the same was repeated after 1 week.

Results:

The test-retest reliability for ISI (intra-class correlation coefficient, ICC2,1−0.84) was excellent. It was further established by the Bland-Altman graph and scatter plot. The results also showed that ISI (Pearson’s coefficient r−0.45) had a strong positive correlation with PSQI. Internal consistency for the ISI (Cronbach’s α–0.84) was excellent.

Conclusion:

The study findings suggest that ISI has excellent internal consistency, test-retest reliability and validity for the university population of poor sleepers in India. Hence, it can prove to be a good tool for screening insomnia in the current population.
Prevalence of communication between mothers and daughters on sexuality and associated factors in Sagamu, southwest Nigeria
Authors: Opawale Oluwadamilola A. , Animasahun Victor J. , Chapman Helena J.
Published: January 2017

Background:

As adolescents transition from childhood to adulthood, effective mother-daughter communication on sexuality plays a role in reducing high-risk behaviours linked to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and early pregnancy and childbirth. The objective of the study was to examine the prevalence of mother-daughter communication on sexuality and associated factors in Sagamu, southwest Nigeria.

Methods:

Using multistage sampling, surveys were conducted using 234 female youth enrolled at a secondary school. The chi-square or Fisher’s exact test was used to examine associations between categorical variables. The independent sample t-test was used to compare mean values of variables with reported evidence of mother-daughter communication on sexuality.

Results:

The mean age of respondents was 16+1.56 years. The majority (89.7%) had engaged in mother-daughter communication on sexuality, but three-quarters (80.8%) of the respondents could not freely discuss sexuality with their mothers. About one-third (31.6%) of the respondents reported at least one sexual encounter with the mean age of sexual debut of 14.23±2.12 years. Mother-daughter communication on sexuality was significantly associated with religion (p=0.047), mother’s age (p=0.019), who the respondents live with (p=0.029), mother’s highest educational status (p<0.001), age of sexual debut (p=0.030), and condom use (p<0.001), but not with freedom to discuss sexuality with their mother (p=0.552) or freedom to introduce male friends to their mother (p=0.077).

Conclusion:

Despite the high prevalence of mother-daughter communication on sexuality, mothers’ approach appeared unfriendly, as most girls could not freely discuss topics concerning sexuality with their mothers. Poor communication on sexuality was associated with sexual risk behaviours. Mothers should engage in adolescent-friendly transferring of knowledge on sexuality in order to reduce pregnancy rates and HIV transmission in female adolescents.
Two-Dimensional Optical CDMA System Parameters Limitations for Wavelength Hopping/Time-Spreading Scheme based on Simulation Experiment
Authors: Kandouci Chahinaz , Djebbari Ali
Published: January 2017

A new family of two-dimensional optical hybrid code which employs zero cross-correlation (ZCC) codes, constructed by the balanced incomplete block design BIBD, as both time-spreading and wavelength hopping patterns are used in this paper. The obtained codes have both off-peak autocorrelation and cross-correlation values respectively equal to zero and unity. The work in this paper is a computer experiment performed using Optisystem 9.0 software program as a simulator to determine the wavelength hopping/time spreading (WH/TS) OCDMA system performances limitations. Five system parameters were considered in this work: the optical fiber length (transmission distance), the bitrate, the chip spacing and the transmitted power. This paper shows for what sufficient system performance parameters (BER≤10−9, Q≥6) the system can stand for.
Quantification of mechanical dyssynchrony in growth restricted fetuses and normal controls using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE)
Authors: Krause Kristina , Möllers Mareike , Hammer Kerstin , Falkenberg Maria Karina , Möllmann Ute , Görlich Dennis , Klockenbusch Walter , Schmitz Ralf
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate longitudinal mechanical dyssynchrony in normally grown fetuses by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) and to compare longitudinal mechanical dyssynchrony in fetal growth restriction (FGR) with normal controls.

Materials and methods:

A prospective study was performed on 30 FGR and 62 normally grown fetuses, including 30 controls matched by gestational age, using STE and a transversal four-chamber view. Data analysis was carried out with a high frame rate of about 175 frames/s. Dyssynchrony was analyzed offline with QLab 9 (Philips Medical Systems, Andover, MA, USA) as time differences between peaks in strain of both ventricles and the septum. Inter- and intraventricular and intraseptal dyssynchrony were obtained and inter- and intraobserver reliability was analyzed.

Results:

Longitudinal mechanical dyssynchrony was feasible in all cases, with high inter- and intraobserver reliability. Levels of inter- and intraventricular dyssynchrony were higher in the FGR than in the control group.

Conclusion:

Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a reliable technique for cardiac function assessment in the fetal heart. Interventricular dyssynchrony could be a potential parameter for early detection of subclinical myocardial dysfunction before other parameters demand intervention. The future clinical role of longitudinal mechanical dyssynchrony needs to be verified in larger studies and with a technique customized for prenatal echocardiography.
Preimplantation 3D ultrasound: current uses and challenges
Authors: Arya Sushila , Kupesic Plavsic Sanja
Published: January 2017

The preimplantation ultrasound (US) refers to targeted imaging of the uterus and adnexa prior to assisted reproductive techniques (ART) to optimize the infertility treatment outcomes. After a thorough evidence based literature review, we propose the use of transvaginal three-dimensional (3D) US during the early follicular phase. A systematic approach for 3D US examination consists of a detailed examination of the uterine shape, size and contour, evaluation of the endometrial thickness, volume, pattern and vascularity, and assessment of the junctional zone regularity, echogenicity and thickness. Uterine anatomy is explored in the coronal plane by simultaneous visualization of the uterine cavity, the external surface of the fundus and cervix. Saline infusion sonogram (SIS) is recommended for patients with increased endometrial volume, abnormal endometrial pattern and irregular uterine cavity shape suggestive of Müllerian duct anomalies or acquired intracavitary abnormalities. Myometrial lesions should be recognized and proper dimensions and locations should be ascertained. Ovarian dimensions and volume are measured and the antral follicle count is recorded. Adnexa are carefully assessed for masses, endometriosis and dilated tubes. Color power Doppler US may be applied to evaluate vascularity of the ovaries and pelvic lesions. Hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (Hy-Co-Sy) should be optimally utilized for assessment of tubal patency. Accessibility and mobility of the ovaries should be checked in real time for better planning of the ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval. The cul-de-sac is assessed for the presence of free fluid or masses.
Material Parts in Social Structures
Authors: Elder-Vass Dave
Published: January 2017

There has been much debate on whether and how groups of human agents can constitute social structures with causal significance. Both sides in this debate, however, implicitly privilege human individuals over non-human material objects and tend to ignore the possibility that such objects might also play a significant role in social structures. This paper argues that social entities are often composed of both human agents and non-human material objects, and that both may make essential contributions to their causal influence. In such cases the causal influence of social structures should be attributed to the emergent causal powers of what I call socio-technical entities.
New data on the endemic cricetid rodent Holochilus lagigliai from central-western Argentina: fossil record and potential distribution
Authors: Fernández Fernando J. , Torres Julio , Tammone Mauro , López José Manuel , Pardiñas Ulyses F.J.
Published: January 2017

The recently described cricetid
β-Zeolite modified by ethylenediamine for sorption of Th(IV)
Authors: Peng Liu , Hanyu Wu , Ni Yuan , Zhuoxin Yin , Duoqiang Pan , Wangsuo Wu
Published: January 2017

β-Zeolite-EDA was modified with ethylenediamine (EDA) after synthesized. The synthesized material was characterized and used for removal of Th(IV) from aqueous solutions. The influences of pH, ionic strength, contact time, temperature and humic acid (HA) on Th(IV) sorption onto synthesized β-zeolite-EDA was studied by batch technique. The dynamic process showed that the sorption of Th(IV) onto β-zeolite-EDA matched the pseudo-second-order kinetics model. The sorption of Th(IV) on β-zeolite-EDA was significantly dependent on pH values, the sorption percentage increased markedly at pH 3.5–4.5, and then maintained a steady state as pH values increased. Through simulating the sorption isotherms by Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubini–Radushkevich (D–R) models, it could be seen respectively that the sorption pattern of Th(IV) on β-zeolite-EDA was mainly controlled by surface complexation, and that the sorption processes was endothermic and spontaneous. The presence of HA increased Th(IV) sorption on β-zeolite-EDA.
Preparation, characterization, uranium (VI) biosorption models, and conditions optimization by response surface methodology (RSM) for amidoxime-functionalized marine fungus materials
Authors: Yang Xuechun , Gao Yang , Jiang Min , He Dianxiong , Liao Sen , Hou Dan , Yan Xueming , Long Wei , Wu Yaxin , Tan Ni
Published: January 2017

Amidoxime-functionalized marine fungus Fusarium sp. #ZZF51 (ZGDA) was synthesized and studied to adsorb uranium (VI) from the aqueous solution. Different instrumental techniques such as FTIR, SEM, and TGA were employed for the characterization of the manufactured materials, and theirs ability of removal uranium (VI) was optimized using RSM. The experimental results showed the maximum adsorption capacity for the synthesized materials was 230.78 mg g−1 at the following optimization conditions: S–L ratio 150 mg L−1, pH 5.13, uranium (VI) initial concentration 40 mg L−1, and equilibrium time 122.40 min. More than 85% of the absorbed uranium (VI) could be desorbed by 0.5 or 1.0 mol L−1 HCl, and the modified mycelium could be reused at least five times. The thermodynamic experimental data of adsorption uranium (VI) could fit better with Langumir and Freundlich isotherms models, and the pseudo-second-order model was better to interpret the kinetics process. The modified fungus materials exhibited the better sorption capacity for uranium (VI) in comparison with raw biomass should be attributed to the strong chelation of amidoxime to uranium (VI) ions.
Comparing the semiotic construction of attitudinal meanings in the multimodal manuscript, original published and adapted versions of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Authors: Chen Yumin
Published: January 2017

This paper analyzes the attitudinal variations in multimodal literary works by comparing the manuscript, the original published edition, and eight contemporary adapted versions ofAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Drawing upon the appraisal system of attitude (Martin and White 2005,The language of evaluation: Appraisal in English. London: Palgrave) and the social semiotic approach to visual images (Kress and Van Leeuwen 2006,Reading images: The grammar of visual design, 2nd edn. London: Routledge), the analysis demonstrates that the deployments of linguistic and visual attitudinal resources in the adapted texts differ from those in the manuscript and the original published work in terms of the semantic region, what is being appraised, positive or negative attitude, the explicit or implicit way of expression, and the degree of attitudinal commitment. Variations within different adaptations are found to accommodate the needs of different target audiences. It is also found that the intermodal relation in constructing the overall attitudinal stance shifts from complementarity in the manuscript to enhancement in the original published work and then to co-instantiation in the adaptations. The semiotic exploration may shed light on the understanding of the variations of meanings arising from the interplay of multiple semiotic resources in the different versions of the timeless multimodal literary classic.