bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Em direção ao núcleo da ‘obra Maquiavel’: sobre a divisão civil e suas interpretações
Authors: Cardoso Sérgio
Published: September 2018

O texto apresenta a construção contemporânea do Maquiavel republicano partindo das três clássicas leituras de Maquiavel, a saber, a de Lefort, Pocock e Skinner, sem deixar de lado o confronto com os próprios textos do autor de O Princípe. Enquanto o primeiro acentuava no autor fiorentino uma ruptura com a filosofia política clássica, os dois últimos estabeleceram nele o elo central da tradição republicana. O tema da divisão civil, de diversidade interpretativa inconteste, é recolocado na esteira desses consagrados comentários da obra de Maquiavel. [1]Para Marilena Chaui, ‘do norte estrela’, no pensamento e na ação.
O elogio de Sócrates por Alcibíades
Authors: Bolzani Filho Roberto
Published: September 2018

Procura-se, neste texto, analisar o conhecido episódio final do Banquete de Platão, no qual Alcibíades descreve a figura de Sócrates. O objetivo é mostrar semelhanças com o discurso socrático na Apologia e a intenção platônica de retomar, em novos termos filosóficos, a defesa de seu mestre contra a acusação de corromper os jovens.
Platão e a poesia de seu tempo: contra Simônides
Authors: Takayama Luiz Roberto
Published: September 2018

Embora sejam a epopeia homérica, a tragédia e a comédia, os alvos principais da crítica de Platão à poesia, pretende-se mostrar que ela se estende também à lírica, perso nificada na figura inovadora de Simônides de Ceos, e tal como era praticada em sua época.
Tensões entre natureza e sociedade em Diderot e Rousseau
Authors: Becker Evaldo
Published: September 2018

Nosso objetivo no presente artigo é apresentar as tensões percebidas entre os conceitos de natureza e sociedade nas obras de Diderot e Rousseau. Para tanto, examinaremos as principais divergências e convergências teóricas percebidas nas obras dos autores mencionados. Evidenciaremos que apesar da ruptura afetiva ocorrida entre Diderot e Rousseau, seus textos continuam a dialogar e nos ajudam a compreender as posturas teóricas de ambos no que concerne às intrincadas relações existentes entre os conceitos de natureza e sociedade.
Rousseau, o cidadão, o filósofo
Authors: Corôa Pedro Paulo
Published: September 2018

O artigo tem como objetivo mostrar a imbricação, no pensamento de Rousseau, entre o imperativo da constituição de uma identidade filosófica como pré-requisito para a própria  prática da filosofia, e a formação, no plano da reflexão conceitual, da noção de contrato como ideia reguladora, já no sentido que Kant, na esteira do Contrato social, dará a esse termo.
Mouse Models to Disentangle the Hallmarks of Human Aging
Authors: Folgueras Alicia R. , Freitas-Rodríguez Sandra , Velasco Gloria , López-Otín Carlos
Published: September 2018

Model organisms have provided fundamental evidence that aging can be delayed and longevity extended. These findings gave rise to a new era in aging research aimed at elucidating the pathways and networks controlling this complex biological process. The identification of 9 hallmarks of aging has established a framework to evaluate the relative contribution of each hallmark and the interconnections among them. In this review, we revisit these hallmarks with the information obtained exclusively through the generation of genetically modified mouse models that have a significant impact on the aging process. We discuss within each hallmark those interventions that accelerate aging or that have been successful at increasing lifespan, with the final goal of identifying the most promising antiaging avenues based on the current knowledge provided by in vivo models.
Epigenetic Modifications in Cardiovascular Aging and Diseases
Authors: Zhang Weiqi , Song Moshi , Qu Jing , Liu Guang-Hui
Published: September 2018

Aging is associated with a progressive decline in cardiovascular structure and function. Accumulating evidence links cardiovascular aging to epigenetic alterations encompassing a complex interplay of DNA methylation, histone posttranslational modifications, and dynamic nucleosome occupancy governed by numerous epigenetic factors. Advances in genomics technology have led to a profound understanding of chromatin reorganization in both cardiovascular aging and diseases. This review summarizes recent discoveries in epigenetic mechanisms involved in cardiovascular aging and diseases and discusses potential therapeutic strategies to retard cardiovascular aging and conquer related diseases through the rejuvenation of epigenetic signatures to a young state.
Taxonomic and nomenclatural status of Iberian Algyroides (Lacertidae)
Authors: Sánchez-Vialas Alberto , Calvo-Revuelta Marta , Rubio José Luis , Palacios Fernando , García-París Mario
Published: September 2018

The taxonomy and nomenclature of Iberian Algyroides are problematic. The first taxon described, A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916, was based on a single specimen that was subsequently lost. The description of the second taxon, A. marchi Valverde, 1958, was based on the comparison of a newly discovered population with the original description of A. hidalgoi. However, A. hidalgoi specimens have never been recorded since for any locality. Therefore, three questions need to be addressed: Is A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916 a morphologically diagnosable taxon different from all non-Iberian species of Algyroides? are A. hidalgoi and A. marchi conspecific? And if so, which is the correct name for the species? To clarify the taxonomic status of the Iberian Algyroides we (1) compare Boscá’s A. hidalgoi original description against the descriptions of all other species of Algyroides, (2) test the accuracy of Boscá’s A. hidalgoi by comparing it against 204 Iberian museum specimens, and (3) designate a neotype of A. hidalgoi that fits the head pholidosis described in the original description. We show that none of the diagnostic characters used by Valverde to differentiate between A. hidalgoi and A. marchi are actually diagnostic, as we found high levels of variability on those characters in the studied specimens. Our results validate Boscá’s description of A. hidalgoi, which fits within the morphological variability observed for southern Iberian Algyroides. As a result, we propose the strict synonymy of A. marchi Valverde, 1958 with A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916.
Exploring the Role of Culture in Shaping the Dagbon Ethnopolitical Peace Negotiation Processes
Authors: Ateng Mathias Awonnatey , Abazaami Joseph , Musah A. Agoswin
Published: September 2018

Culture is a significant factor in peace negotiation processes. It frames the parties’ perspectives and strategies to managing the conflict. This study explores the role of culture in the peace negotiation processes of the Dagbon ethnopolitical conflict of Northern Ghana. Twelve elders from the Dagbon Traditional Area with an in-depth understanding of the traditions and culture of Dagbon were interviewed using an unstructured interview guide. Similar to most findings on cross-cultural negotiation processes in high-context cultures, all the negotiators were men. The issues negotiated were largely based on the culture and traditions of Dagbon, and the interest and priorities of the negotiators were culturally defined. As with many other ethnopolitical conflicts, the culture of Dagbon was key in shaping the process and outcome of the peace negotiations. It is imperative for cultural issues to be properly understood and addressed satisfactorily in order not to undermine peace negotiation processes.
International Court of Justice
Authors: Guez Guillaume
Published: September 2018

In its judgment of 2 February 2018 in the joined cases between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, the International Court of Justice held that Harbor Head Lagoon and the sandbar separating it from the Caribbean Sea belonged to Nicaragua, thereby creating an enclave on the Costa Rican coast. Despite this finding, the Court decided to disregard it when establishing the maritime delimitation. This article aims at showing that such a solution is incompatible with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as well as examining the options left to the Court to remedy the impracticality of the situation in accordance with the applicable law.
Preface
Authors: PAGE LAWRENCE M. , CHEN WEI-JEN , CICCOTTO PATRICK J.
Published: September 2018

The Asian Society of Ichthyologists (ASI) was established in February 2014 in Penang, Malaysia following organizational meetings in 2012 in Chiang Mai, Thailand and in 2013 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.
Irrigation-Induced Land–Atmosphere Feedbacks and Their Impacts on Indian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Chou Chihchung , Ryu Dongryeol , Lo Min-Hui , Wey Hao-Wei , Malano Hector M.
Published: September 2018

From the 1980s, Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) shows a decreasing trend over north and northwest India, and there was a significant observed reduction in July over central and south India in 1982–2003. The key drivers of the changed ISMR, however, remain unclear. It was hypothesized that the large-scale irrigation development that started in the 1950s has resulted in land surface cooling, which slowed large-scale atmospheric circulation, exerting significant influences on ISMR. To test this hypothesis, a fully coupled model, the CESM v1.0.3, was used with a global irrigation dataset. In this study, spatially varying irrigation-induced feedback mechanisms are investigated in detail at different stages of the monsoon. Results show that soil moisture and evapotranspiration increase significantly over India throughout the summertime because of the irrigation. However, 2-m air temperature shows a significant reduction only in a limited region because the temperature change is influenced simultaneously by surface incoming shortwave radiation and evaporative cooling resulting from the irrigation, especially over the heavily irrigated region. Irrigation also induces a 925-hPa northeasterly wind from 30°N toward the equator. This is opposite to the prevailing direction of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) wind that brings moist air to India. The modeled rainfall in the irrigated case significantly decreases up to 1.5 mm day−1 over central and north India from July to September. This paper reveals that the irrigation can contribute to both increasing and decreasing the surface temperature via multiple feedback mechanisms. The net effect is to weaken the ISM with the high spatial and temporal heterogeneity.
Polarimetric Radar Signatures of a Rare Tornado Event over South Korea
Authors: Lim S. , Allabakash S. , Jang B. , Chandrasekar V.
Published: September 2018

The Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) made one of the first radar observations of a rare tornadic storm that occurred on 10 June 2014 in the Seoul metropolitan region, South Korea, using X-band dual-polarization radar. The tornado lasted for about 18 min, during which it destroyed about 20 greenhouses and injured several people. This tornado was rated at F0 on the Fujita scale. The KICT X-band dual-polarization radar was installed in the area northwest of Seoul to monitor storm development, measure rainfall, improve hazard mitigation, and disaster management. This paper presents the high-resolution (both spatial and temporal) polarimetric radar observations of the tornado, along with the radar parameters of reflectivity, differential reflectivity, Doppler velocity, and copolar correlation coefficient. The characteristic signatures of polarimetric variables, including the descending reflectivity core, weak echo hole, Doppler velocity couplet, and hook echo, are used to describe the tornado vortex and its development. In addition, the close range (about 5-km distance) observations of the hook echo show the high-resolution radar signatures of a weak echo region surrounded by high-reflectivity annular rings inside the tornado vortex. From development to dissipation, various finescale features are observed, including lofted tornadic debris and potential hail signatures. The high-resolution (close range) observations were also compared against low-resolution (long range) radar observations. The comparison shows that high-spatiotemporal, low-altitude, and close-range observations can be significantly advantageous for tornado detection and early warning.
A Real-Time Online Data Product that Automatically Detects Easterly Gap-Flow Events and Precipitation Type in the Columbia River Gorge
Authors: Neiman Paul J. , Gottas Daniel J. , White Allen B. , Schneider William R. , Bright David R.
Published: September 2018

A real-time, hourly updated, online graphical data product that displays the depth and strength of easterly gap flow in the Columbia River Gorge using a 915-MHz Doppler wind profiler is presented. During precipitation events, this data product also displays observed precipitation accumulation and diagnosed precipitation type using measurements provided by a collocated heated tipping-bucket rain gauge, an optical disdrometer, and temperature and relative humidity sensors. Automated algorithms that determine the existence and depth of the gap flow, as well as precipitation type, are described. The Columbia River Gorge is the only major gap in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington. Consequently, both easterly and westerly directed gap-flow events are common in this region. Especially during late autumn and winter, easterly gap flow can cause hazardous and damaging weather (e.g., snow, freezing rain, and strong winds) in the Portland, Oregon–Vancouver, Washington metropolitan area. The product described here was developed to help forecasters at the Portland National Weather Service Forecast Office monitor cool-season easterly gap-flow events in order to provide situational awareness and guide warnings to the public about potential weather-related hazards.
Practical Ensemble-Based Approaches to Estimate Atmospheric Background Error Covariances for Limited-Area Deterministic Data Assimilation
Authors: Bédard Joël , Buehner Mark , Caron Jean-François , Baek Seung-Jong , Fillion Luc
Published: September 2018

High-resolution flow-dependent background error covariances can allow for a better usage of dense observation networks in applications of data assimilation for numerical weather prediction. The generation of high-resolution ensembles, however, can be computationally cost prohibitive. In this study, practical and low-cost ensemble generation methods are presented and compared against both global and regional ensemble Kalman filters (G-EnKF and R-EnKF, respectively). The goal is to provide limited-area deterministic assimilation schemes with higher-resolution flow-dependent background error covariances that perform at least as well as those from the G-EnKF when assimilating the same observations. The low-cost methods are based on short-range regional ensemble forecasts initialized from 1) deterministic analysis plus balanced perturbations (filter free approach) and 2) a simplified ensemble square root filter (S-EnSRF), centered on deterministic analyses. The resulting ensembles from the different approaches are used within a 4D ensemble–variational (4D-EnVar) assimilation system covering most of Canada and the northern United States. Diagnostic results show that the mean is an important component of the ensembles. Results also show that the persistence of the homogeneous characteristics of the perturbations in the filter free approach makes this method unsuited for short assimilation time windows since some error structures take longer to develop. The S-EnSRF approach overcomes this limitation by recycling part of the prior perturbations. Results from 1-month assimilation experiments show that the S-EnSRF and R-EnKF experiments provide forecasts of similar quality to those from G-EnKF. Furthermore, results from precipitation verification indicate that the R-EnKF experiment provides the best precipitation accumulation predictions over 24-h periods.
Association between serum level of advanced glycation end products and obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Xingyu , She Wensheng , Niu Xun , Chen Xiong
Published: September 2018

Objective

This meta-analysis was performed to assess the difference in the serum level of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) between patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and controls.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Elsevier, SCI, Wanfang, Weipu, and China National Knowledge Internet. Eligible studies that reported the serum AGE level in patients with OSAHS were identified by two reviewers. Review Manager version 5.2 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) and R version 3.10 ( www.r-project.org ) were employed for data synthesis.

Results

Five studies involving 670 subjects were identified. The meta-analysis showed that the mean serum AGE level in the OSAHS group was 0.98 mmol/L higher than those in the control group (95% confidence interval, 0.69–1.27).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis showed that the serum AGE level was elevated in patients with OSAHS. This finding suggests that AGEs may play an important role in insulin resistance in OSAHS and serve as a biomarker for patients with OSAHS with a high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Differential Priming of Gender and Coupling of Affect and Cognition in Anthropomorphic Stimulation
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Sapre Anand , Kewlani Swati
Published: September 2018

Affect and cognition are two widely studied variables in researches concerned with behavioral science. This study assesses the relationship of these constructs in advertising. Earlier researches have considered these as either operating independently or as one acting as a precursor to the other. This study analyzes the findings of neuroscience in an experimental setting for anthropomorphic and unanthropomorphic advertisement. The study further looks into the moderating role of gender influence on priming, when exposed to advertisement. In consonance with the neurological advances, the author proposes a non-recursive model, showing intermodulation of affect and cognition. In this study 661 and 620 subjects were exposed to schema congruous anthropomorphic and unanthropomorphic advertisement respectively in a cross sectional study. The non recursive model for Cognitive and Affective priming was tested with polychoric correlation and asymptotic covariance as input matrix, with Robust Diagonally Weighted Least Square as estimation method using Lisrel 9.1 software. The findings of the study lend support to the recent advances of neuroscience that affect and cognition are mutually reinforcing for anthropomorphic treatment but not for unanthropomorphic advertisement. Findings also show that females are more affectively primed and male more cognitively primed on exposure to anthropomorphic advertisement.
Impact of Cultural Ethos and Structural Organicity on Turnover Intention: Evidence from the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Panchamia Jallavi , Pestonjee D. M.
Published: September 2018

The aim of the study is to examine the interrelationship among the variables such as cultural ethos, structural organicity, perceived organizational support, affective commitment, and their influence on turnover intention. We conducted the study on 509 medical representatives (MRs) of the pharmaceutical industry with survey method using well-established instruments. We checked the data for reliability, univariate, and multivariate normality assumptions. We tested the hypotheses with path analysis. Results depict significant relationships between cultural ethos and other organizational variables under the study, whereas insignificant relationship between structural organicity and perceived organizational support among MRs of the pharmaceutical industry. A study applied the structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis to develop the final research model with the acceptable model fit after the removal of the structural organicity and one cultural ethos, namely autonomy. The model might be useful to pharmaceutical companies, where high attrition persists among sales people. Moreover, the study will give premise on how organizational culture and commitment can influence employees’ perception towards the support system of an organization. The results of the study will be useful to HR managers in order to improve particular ethos to reduce the turnover intention and to increase employees’ commitment towards the organization.
Conditions for Successful Community-based Water Management: Perspectives from Rural Uganda
Authors: Naiga Resty
Published: September 2018

Operation and maintenance of communally managed water infrastructure is still an uphill task despite over a decade of implementing community-based water management system in rural water provision in Uganda. Using mixed methods and Ostrom’s eight design principles as an analytical framework, this article examines the relevance of the design principles in explaining the success and failure of collective self-management institutions in determining sustainable access to safe water in Uganda. The findings show that, to a large extent, the differences in water infrastructure management effectiveness in the two study communities are explained by the existence or absence of the organizational characteristics prescribed by the design principles. The results further highlight additional factors that are critical for successful community-based water management which are not explicitly covered by the design principles. This implies, therefore, that the design principles should not be used as a ‘blueprint’ on resource management regimes especially in developing countries.
The Center on Violence Against Women and Children at Rutgers University
Authors: Johnson Laura , Postmus Judy L. , Khetarpal Rupa , Schwartz Rachel , Buttner Catherine , McMahon Sarah
Published: September 2018

The mission of the Center on Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) at the Rutgers University School of Social Work is to strive to eliminate physical, sexual, and other forms of violence against women and children and the power imbalances that permit them. This mission is accomplished through the use of a collaborative approach that focuses on interdisciplinary research, education, and community engagement that impact communities and policies in New Jersey, the United States, and throughout the world. This article describes VAWC’s history, organizational structure, physical resources, and funding sources, along with a description of past, current, and ongoing projects. It concludes with an overview of future plans for the Center.
The use of antiplatelet agents after an acute coronary syndrome in a large community Italian setting of more than 12 million subjects
Authors: Maggioni Aldo P , Dondi Letizia , Pedrini Antonella , Ronconi Giulia , Calabria Silvia , Cimminiello Claudio , Martini Nello
Published: September 2018

Background:

Antiplatelet agents are the cornerstone of medical treatment in acute coronary syndromes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical epidemiology of patients after an acute coronary syndrome treated with different antiplatelet agent regimens in a large real community setting.

Methods:

The ARCO database, including more than 12 million inhabitants, was evaluated. Antiplatelet agent prescriptions were analysed as follows: aspirin, clopidogrel, other antiplatelet agents used alone; the free and fixed combination of clopidogrel and aspirin; the free combination of aspirin with other antiplatelet agents. Healthcare costs included drug prescriptions (prices reimbursed by the Italian National Health System), outpatient specialist services and hospitalisations (Italian national tariffs).

Results:

From 1 January to 31 December 2014, 26,834 patients were discharged after an acute coronary syndrome. Of these, 19,333 (77%) were prescribed with an antiplatelet agent. Among patients undergoing a revascularisation procedure either percutaneous or surgical (47% of the total population), antiplatelet agents were prescribed in 90% of cases. Dual antiplatelet agent therapy was prescribed in 49.6% of the total population and in 68.5% of those treated invasively. Prescription continuity was observed in just 75% of patients. The highest adherence was observed for the fixed combination of aspirin/clopidogrel (81.5%). Throughout one year of follow-up re-hospitalisation occurred in 47.9% of the patients and the direct cost per patient treated with an antiplatelet agent was €13,297 versus €16,647 in patients not treated with antiplatelet agents.

Conclusions:

This study highlights that antiplatelet agent prescriptions, specifically dual antiplatelet agent therapy, are at least suboptimal as well as in prescription continuity. Hospitalisations were frequent and were the main driver of the costs, accounting for 84% of the total costs for the Italian National Health System.
Student Success Skills: Tools and Strategies for Improved Academic and Social Outcomes
Authors: Webb Linda D. , Brigman Greg A.
Published: September 2018

This article is a follow-up to previously published reports of research evaluating the effectiveness of the Student Success Skills group and classroom intervention. An overview of the key skill areas is provided, supported by ongoing research in the area of social-emotional learning, along with research-based strategies and activities that have been found to improve academic and social outcomes for all students. Key tools for classroom guidance lessons are included and are accompanied by specific guidelines for how school counselors can implement them. The article concludes with a brief discussion of the need to implement research-supported programs.
Two Counseling Interventions to Reduce Teacher-Child Relationship Stress
Authors: Ray Dee C.
Published: September 2018

This article discusses a study investigating the impact of two school counseling interventions, child-centered play therapy (CCPT) and teacher consultation, on teacher-child relationship stress. CCPT and teacher consultation were conducted with 93 (pre-kindergarten to fifth grade) elementary school students across three elementary schools deemed to be at risk and ethnically diverse. Students were divided into three treatment groups: CCPT only, teacher consultation only, and a combined CCPT and teacher consultation group. Results demonstrated significant differences between pretesting and posttesting on the Index of Teaching Stress. All treatment groups were found to have statistically significant reduction in teacher and student problem characteristics with large effect sizes for total stress.
Homonegativity among Professional School Counselors: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Satcher Jamie , Leggett Mark
Published: September 2018

Homonegativity among female professional school counselors (n = 215) representing a single Southern state was measured using adapted versions of the Homonegativity Scale (HS) and the Modern Homonegativity Scale (MHS). With the use of factorial analysis of variance, significant differences (p < .05) were found when HS and MHS scores were compared by (a) having a gay or lesbian friend or personal acquaintance, (b) frequency of church attendance, (c) participation in training about gay or lesbian sexual orientations in the 12 months prior to the study, and (d) having worked as a counselor with gay or lesbian people. Significant differences (p < .05) were found only for MHS scores when responses were compared by (a) race and (b) political affiliation.
Factors Influencing High School Students’ Career Aspirations
Authors: Tang Mei , Pan Wei , Newmeyer Mark D.
Published: September 2018

This article explores the factors influencing high school students’ career aspirations with a study analyzing 141 high school students. The Social Cognitive Career Development Model was utilized to examine the interactive relationships among learning experiences, career self-efficacy, outcome expectations, career interests, and career choices. The results of a structural equation modeling analysis supported the mediating role of career self-efficacy in the career decision-making process, but the specific paths among the predicting variables to career aspirations were found to be different for female and male high school students. Implications for school counselors to provide more effective career intervention programs are discussed.
Middle School Counselors’ Competence in Conducting Developmental Classroom Lessons: Is Teaching Experience Necessary?
Authors: Bringman Nancy , Lee Sang Min
Published: September 2018

Is teaching experience necessary for school counselors to feel competent when conducting developmental classroom lessons? The study in this article investigated the relationship between previous teaching experience and practicing middle school counselors’ perceived competence in conducting developmental classroom lessons. Results suggested that although teaching experience was significantly related to competence in conducting developmental classroom lessons, this effect decreased dramatically and became nonsignificant when school counseling experience was considered. Implications of the findings for school counselors and counselor educators are presented.
Examining Variation in Attitudes toward Aggressive Retaliation and Perceptions of Safety among Bullies, Victims, and Bully/Victims
Authors: Bradshaw Catherine P. , O'Brennan Lindsey M. , Sawyer Anne L.
Published: September 2018

This article examines the link between involvement in bullying, as either a bully, victim, or bully/victim, and attitudes toward violence and perceptions of safety among 16,012 middle and high school students. Analyses indicated that37.6% were frequently involved in bullying. Bully/victims were the most likely to report feeling unsafe and disconnected from their school, whereas bullies were the most likely to support aggressive retaliation. Implications for school counselors are discussed.
A mutation of the human EPHB2 gene leads to a major platelet functional defect
Authors: Berrou Eliane , Soukaseum Christelle , Favier Rémi , Adam Frédéric , Elaib Ziane , Kauskot Alexandre , Bordet Jean-Claude , Ballerini Paola , Loyau Stephane , Feng Miao , Dias Karine , Muheidli Abbas , Girault Stephane , Nurden Alan T. , Turro Ernest , Ouwehand Willem H. , Denis Cécile V. , Jandrot-Perrus Martine , Rosa Jean-Philippe , Nurden Paquita , Bryckaert Marijke
Published: September 2018

The ephrin transmembrane receptor family of tyrosine kinases is involved in platelet function. We report the first EPHB2 variant affecting platelets in 2 siblings (P1 and P2) from a consanguineous family with recurrent bleeding and normal platelet counts. Whole-exome sequencing identified a c.2233C>T variant (missense p.R745C) of the EPHB2 gene. P1 and P2 were homozygous for this variant, while their asymptomatic parents were heterozygous. The p.R745C variant within the tyrosine kinase domain was associated with defects in platelet aggregation, αIIbβ3 activation, and granule secretion induced by G-protein–coupled receptor (GPCR) agonists and convulxin, as well as in thrombus formation on collagen under flow. In contrast, clot retraction, flow-dependent platelet adhesion, and spreading on fibrinogen were only mildly affected, indicating limited effects on αIIbβ3 outside-in signaling. Most importantly, Lyn, Syk, and FcRγ phosphorylation, the initial steps in glycoprotein VI (GPVI) platelet signaling were drastically impaired in the absence of platelet–platelet contact, indicating a positive role for EPHB2 in GPVI activation. Likewise platelet activation by PAR4-AP showed defective Src activation, as opposed to normal protein kinase C activity and Ca2+ mobilization. Overexpression of wild-type and R745C EPHB2 variant in RBL-2H3 (rat basophilic leukemia) cells stably expressing human GPVI confirmed that EPHB2 R745C mutation impaired EPHB2 autophosphorylation but had no effect on ephrin ligand-induced EPHB2 clustering, suggesting it did not interfere with EPHB2-ephrin–mediated cell-to-cell contact. In conclusion, this novel inherited platelet disorder affecting EPHB2 demonstrates this tyrosine kinase receptor plays an important role in platelet function through crosstalk with GPVI and GPCR signaling.
National Cancer Institute Breast Cancer Steering Committee Working Group Report on Meaningful and Appropriate End Points for Clinical Trials in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Seidman Andrew D. , Bordeleau Louise , Fehrenbacher Louis , Barlow William E. , Perlmutter Jane , Rubinstein Lawrence , Wedam Suparna B. , Hershman Dawn L. , Hayes Jennifer Fallas , Butler Lynn Pearson , Smith Mary Lou , Regan Meredith M. , Beaver Julia A. , Amiri-Kordestani Laleh , Rastogi Priya , Zujewski Jo Anne , Korde Larissa A.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To provide evidence-based consensus recommendations on choice of end points for clinical trials in metastatic breast cancer, with a focus on biologic subtype and line of therapy.

Methods

The National Cancer Institute Breast Cancer Steering Committee convened a working group of breast medical oncologists, patient advocates, biostatisticians, and liaisons from the Food and Drug Administration to conduct a detailed curated systematic review of the literature, including original reports, reviews, and meta-analyses, to determine the current landscape of therapeutic options, recent clinical trial data, and natural history of four biologic subtypes of breast cancer. Ongoing clinical trials for metastatic breast cancer in each subtype also were reviewed from ClinicalTrials.gov for planned primary end points. External input was obtained from the pharmaceutic/biotechnology industry, real-world clinical data specialists, experts in quality of life and patient-reported outcomes, and combined metrics for assessing magnitude of clinical benefit.

Results

The literature search yielded 146 publications to inform the recommendations from the working group.

Conclusion

Recommendations for appropriate end points for metastatic breast cancer clinical trials focus on biologic subtype and line of therapy and the magnitude of absolute and relative gains that would represent meaningful clinical benefit.
Circulating Human Papillomavirus DNA as a Biomarker of Response in Patients With Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Treated With Definitive Chemoradiation
Authors: Han Kathy , Leung Eric , Barbera Lisa , Barnes Elizabeth , Croke Jennifer , Di Grappa Marco A. , Fyles Anthony , Metser Ur , Milosevic Michael , Pintilie Melania , Wolfson Robert , Zhao Zhen , Bratman Scott V.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To determine whether plasma human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA predates clinical recurrence and compare its accuracy with 3-month fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in locally advanced cervical cancer.

Methods

This prospective multicenter study accrued 23 women with stage IB to IVA cervical cancer planned for definitive chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Plasma HPV DNA was measured serially by digital polymerase chain reaction, and FDG-PET was performed at 3 months post-CRT.

Results

Of the 19 women with HPV+ cervical cancer included in this analysis, 32% were stage IB, 58% IIB, and 10% IIIB/IVA. Median follow-up was 24 months (range, 18 to 30 months). All patients had detectable plasma HPV DNA before treatment. Six patients had detectable plasma HPV DNA at the end of CRT, and three of them developed metastases at 3 months. Of the 13 patients with undetectable plasma HPV DNA at end of CRT, to date, only one has developed recurrence. Six of those 13 patients had a positive 3-month FDG-PET with no definite residual disease on subsequent imaging or clinical examination to date, and four of these six had undetectable plasma HPV DNA at 3 months. Patients with undetectable plasma HPV DNA at end of CRT had significantly higher 18-month progression-free survival than those with detectable plasma HPV DNA (92% v 50%; P = .02). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (accuracy) of 3-month plasma HPV DNA and 3-month FDG-PET imaging for predicting recurrence at 18 months were 77% and 60%, respectively ( P = .008).

Conclusion

Detectable plasma HPV DNA at end of CRT predates the clinical diagnosis of metastases and is associated with inferior progression-free survival. Moreover, 3-month plasma HPV DNA level is more accurate than 3-month FDG-PET imaging in detecting residual disease. The clinical utility of plasma HPV DNA detection for guiding adjuvant/salvage therapy should be evaluated in future studies.
Effect of androgen deprivation and radiation therapy on MRI fiber tractography in prostate cancer: can we assess treatment response on imaging?
Authors: Hedgire Sandeep , Kilcoyne Aoife , Tonyushkin Alexey , Mao Yun , Uyeda Jennifer W , Gervais Debra A , Harisinghani Mukesh G
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To evaluate quantitative changes in Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Tractography in prostate cancer following androgen deprivation and radiation therapy.

Methods:

22 patients with elevated PSA and biopsy proven prostate carcinoma who underwent MRI of the prostate at 1.5 T with an endorectal coil were included. Group A) was the study group (n = 11), participants who underwent androgen deprivation and/or radiation therapy and group B) were Gleason-matched control group (n = 11) participants who did not undergo such therapy. Diffusion weighted images were used to generate three-dimensional (3D) map of fiber tracts from DTI. 3D regions of interest (ROI) were drawn over the tumor and healthy prostatic parenchyma in both groups to record tract number and tract density. Tumor region and normal parenchymal tract densities within each group were compared.

Results:

Mean tract density in the tumor region and normal parenchyma was 2.3 and 3.3 in study group (tract numbers: 116.6 and 170.2 respectively) and 1.6 and 2.7 in the control group respectively (tract numbers: 252.5 and 346.3 respectively). The difference between these values was statistically significant for the control group (p = 0.0018) but not for the study group (p = 0.11). The difference between the tract numbers of tumor and normal parenchyma appears to narrow following therapy.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrated utility in using tractography as a biomarker in prostate cancer patients post treatment.

Advances in knowledge:

Quantitative DTI fiber tractography is a promising imaging biomarker to quantitatively assess treatment response in the setting of post-androgen deprivation and radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
RESEARCH OF THE PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION OF ATMOSPHERIC SUSPENSION IN SOME SETTLEMENTS OF MAGADAN REGION
Authors: Дрозд Владимир , Drozd Vladimir , Чернышев В. , Chernyshev V. , Холодов Алексей , Kholodov Aleksey , Чайка Владимир , Chayka Vladimir , Голохваст Кирилл , Golokhvast Kirill
Published: September 2018

The paper presents the results of the first study of the particle size distribution of atmospheric suspension contained in the snow of some settlements of the Magadan region (the town of Magadan, the town of Susuman and the urban settlement of Omsukchan). The study found a significant content of PM10 particles in the air of Magadan town (28 to 65.7%), and a general dominance of particles under 50 µm in diameter (PM50 fraction) from 44.4 up to 100%. The content of environmentally significant PM10 particles in the air of smaller settlements of the Magadan region (town Susuman and settlement Omsukchan) does not exceed 21.1%. It can be concluded that the air in the Magadan town, due to the predominance of PM10 and PM50 particles, is characterized by a pronounced micro-particles contamination. This level of pollution, in conjunction with the harsh climate of this region, is a constant source of respiratory diseases and a factor in reduction of the quality of life.
PREOPERATIVE CORRECTION OF SYMPTOMS OF ENDOGENOUS INTOXICATION AND VIOLATIONS OF THE OXYGEN STATUS IN PATIENTS WITH COLORECTAL CANCER
Authors: Яновой Валерий , Yanovoy Valeriy , Ходус Сергей , Hodus Sergey , Дегтярев Е , degtyarev E
Published: September 2018

The purpose of the study is to propose a method of preoperative correction of the symptoms of endogenous intoxication syndrome and associated respiratory disorders in patients with colorectal cancer. The study involved 68 patients having a surgery for colorectal cancer of different localization, with an increased leukocyte index of intoxication by V.K.Ostrovsky in preoperative period. The first group patients (37 subjects) in the preoperative preparation program took Cytoflavin® according to the developed scheme. The second group patients (31 subjects) had a standard preoperative preparation. As result of the research, there was revealed a positive effect of the proposed method of preoperative preparation on hematological parameters of endogenous intoxication (decrease in values of the parameters of Calf-Caliph, Ostrovsky and integral index of intoxication) and parameters of oxygen status, which changes indicated a decrease in tissue hypoxia (decrease in tissue oxygen consumption). The positive effect of the proposed method of preoperative preparation was observed in the postoperative period (reduced severity of respiratory disorders and hematological symptoms of endogenous intoxication).
On the Solution of Equations in Integers in Preparation for the Passing of Profile Level of the Universal State Exam in Mathematics
Authors: Маскина Мария , Maskina Mariya , Давыдочкина Светлана , Davydochkina Svetlana
Published: September 2018

In the course of mathematics of secondary school it is not provided the consideration of a separate topic “Theory of Diophantine equations”, but such equations are increasingly appearing in the texts of additional entrance tests for technical, physical, mathematical and economic specialties of prestigious universities and in the last task of tests of the profi le level of the exam in mathematics. This material is very scattered in various publications, so for its systematization the authors developed an elective course “The solution of Diophantine equations”. Within the framework of this course, the classification of the main methods of solving equations in integers by elementary means and their adaptation for eleventh grades was carried out. Each of the considered methods of solution is provided with a detailed illustration of the features of its application on examples and a selection of tasks for solution without help of teacher.
Classification of Skills of Students of Senior High School at the Study of Algebra and the Beginning of the Analysis
Authors: Виситаева М. , Visitaeva Maret
Published: September 2018

The classification of skills is developed, which is the basis for the development of the pupils’ mathematical abilities for basic and in-depth study of the algebra course and the beginning of analysis in the format of numerical, algebraic, trigonometric and stochastic lines. Block 1 (skills, students at the basic level, aimed at mastering the methods of learning mathematical activity (mastering the basic techniques of general learning activity, operating (rational expressions, functions, power with a rational exponent, square roots and polynomials), mastering the technology to solve (equation, inequality and a system of equations with two variables), operation (sequences, elements of combinatorics, and probabilistic properties of the surrounding phenomena.) Block 2 (students’ abilities in depth (algebraic and irrational expressions, functions, degrees with rational and irrational exponent, n-th roots and polynomials), mastering the technology to solve (equation, system of equations and system of inequalities with two variables), operating sequences, elements of combinatorics, and probabilistic properties of surrounding phenomena).
Rationale of Benchmarks in Determining the Materiality for Financial Statements As a Whole
Authors: Клинова Е. , Klinova E. , Сунгатуллина Р. , Sungatullina R.
Published: September 2018

The article is devoted to the problematic issues of determining the materiality for financial statements as a whole. The authors give recommendations on the rationale of the benchmarks used to calculate the materiality, differentiate the range of percentage to be applied to a benchmark based on the interests of users of financial statements.
Questions of Audit Documentation and Preparation of Written Information to the Management of the Economic Subject
Authors: Мамушкина Наталья , Mamushkina Natalya
Published: September 2018

This article examines the issues of audit and their reflection in the audit documentation. The specifics of the formation of the auditor’s working documents at various stages of the audit are disclosed. The author’s approach to the preparation of the report on the results of the audit of production costs based on an analysis of the content international audit standards is proposed.
Ranking of Appraisal Companies in Russia
Authors: Ханферян В. , Khanferyan V.
Published: September 2018

Th e valuation market in Russia plunged into stagnation — such a conclusion can be drawn from the results of the tenth annual ranking of Russian appraisal companies, compiled by the RAEX rating agency (RAEX-Analytics) in 2017. At the same time, both demand and cost of work fall.
Questions of the Validity of Granting Tariff Preferences in Respect of Goods Imported from Developing and Least Developed Countries
Authors: Губин А. , Gubin A.
Published: September 2018

Th e article is devoted to the problems of validity of granting tariff preferences by the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union to developing and least developed countries. Changes in the system of tariff preferences in relation to goods originating from the least developed countries and the possible consequences of such changes for certain sectors of the economy of the Eurasian Economic Union are examined.
Practical course in Persian
Authors: Сухоруков Алексей , Suhorukov Aleksey
Published: September 2018

The textbook deals with the topics provided by the working program of the discipline " Practical course of the basic Oriental language (Persian)" in the curriculum of the faculty of Crimean Tatar and Eastern Philology of the Taurida Academy of the Crimean Federal University named after V. I. Vernadsky for the first half of the 3rd year, training direction 45.03.01 "Philology" (Persian language and literature).
Designed for students at the 3rd course language universities, where the Persian language is studied as a major Eastern language, and methodologically associated with the training materials for the 2nd course as a logical continuation.