bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distracted driving on YouTube: implications for adolescents
Authors: Basch Corey H. , Mouser Christina , Clark Ashley
Published: May 2017

For the first time in 50 years, traffic fatalities have increased in the United States (US). With the emergence of technology, comes the possibility, that distracted driving has contributed to a decrease in safe driving practices. The purpose of this study was to describe the content on the popular video sharing site, YouTube to ascertain the type of content conveyed in videos that are widely viewed. The 100 most widely viewed English language videos were included in this sample, with a collective number of views of over 35 million. The majority of videos were television-based and Internet-based. Pairwise comparisons indicated that there were statistically significant differences between the number of views of consumer generated videos and television-based videos (p = 0.001) and between television-based videos and Internet-based videos (p < 0.001). Compared with consumer generated videos, television-based videos were 13 times more likely to discuss cell phone use as a distractor while driving, while Internet-based videos were 6.6 times more likely to discuss cell phone use as a distractor while driving. In addition, compared with consumer generated videos, television-based videos were 3.67 times more likely to discuss texting as a distractor while driving, whereas Internet-based videos were 8.5 times more likely to discuss texting as a distractor while driving. The findings of this study indicate that the videos on YouTube related to distracted driving are popular and that this medium could prove to be a successful venue to communicate information about this emergent public health issue.
Thinking Styles and Intercultural Competencies
Authors: Jun Heesoon
Published: May 2017

The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate specific strategies to deconstruct dichotomous, hierarchical, and linear thinking styles and to develop holistic thinking. Developing holistic thinking is the foundation of increasing intercultural competencies for students, faculty, managers, and CEOs. Holistic thinking style allows us to view the world from both Western (linear) and Eastern (non-linear) perspectives. Participants were 35 students (23 American and 12 South Korean students) in an intercultural competence course at a State College in the US. The study found that it is possible for Westerns to increase non-linearity (holistic thinking) by completing specific repetitious reflective writing on a regular basis without censoring. Limitations of the study were the small sample size (N=35) and the short duration (3 months).
Original Article. In vitro evaluation of potato genotypes for resistance against bacterial soft rot (Pectobacterium carotovorum) – a new tool for studying disease resistance
Authors: Azadmanesh Sima , Mozafari Javad , Hasanzadeh Nader , Moslemkhani Cobra
Published: May 2017

In vitro screening techniques were used to evaluate 46 genotypes of Iranian potato collection for resistance to bacterial soft rot caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc). One month old in vitro rooted potato plantlets were inoculated by two inoculation techniques under in vitro conditions: 1) sterile toothpicks dipped into bacterial suspension and pressed into the crown of plantlets and 2) the freshly cut crown of plantlets were dipped into bacterial suspension of 108 cfu ∙ ml-1 for 10 min. Typical soft rot disease symptoms, including the percentage of wilted leaves were recorded on inoculated plantlets 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days post-inoculation. The potato genotypes which were examined responded differently to Pcc and varying levels of resistance were observed. Potato genotype AG showed the highest level of resistance. Results obtained from in vitro screening were then verified by classical tuber slice assay. The verifications were conducted using five representative cultivars: Milva, Ramus, Picaso, Marfona and Agria which responded similarly to both in vitro and classical evaluation systems. Similar results obtained from these tests indicated that the in vitro screening technique developed in this study could provide a simple and rapid whole plant assay in selecting resistant potato genotypes against bacterial soft rot.
Original Article. An evaluation of some eco-friendly biopesticides against Bemisia tabaci on two greenhouse tomato varieties in Egypt
Authors: Abdel-Razek Atef S. , El-Ghany Nesreen M. Abd , Djelouah Khaled , Moussa Abdelhameed
Published: May 2017

This study has two main approaches. First, it exploits the susceptibility of tomato cultivars as a prophylactic measure to detect auto resistance characters of the tested tomato varieties against Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae). Secondly, it evaluates the efficacy of different bio-rational insecticides against B. tabaci under greenhouse conditions. The results exhibited a special significance in B. tabaci infestation suitability between the two tomato varieties with a high infestation significance found in the Shifa F1 hybrid tomato variety compared to the Savera F1 hybrid tomato variety in the first plantation period. Subsequently, in the second plantation period, there was a significant difference between the two tomato varieties. Bemisia tabaci showed a preference for the Shifa F1 hybrid over the Savera F1 hybrid tomato variety. These differences occurred during the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 10th weeks. In the experimental trial for the efficacy of eco-friendly biorational insecticides, spinosad, azadirachtin, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae, there were significant differences between the treated and untreated plants during the two plantation periods. A high efficacy of spinosad on the B. tabaci population was found. Bemisia tabaci infestation under all the applications was reduced from 50 to 94.61% for the two plantation periods. This obvious decrease in B. tabaci population increase attention to benefits of the different bio-rational insecticides.
Original Article. Studies on trinexapac-ethyl dose reduction by combined application with adjuvants in spring barley
Authors: Miziniak Wojciech , Matysiak Kinga , Kaczmarek Sylwia
Published: May 2017

Trinexapac-ethyl is a popular plant growth regulator used in various crops, mostly due to its unique anti-lodging properties. Recently it has been found that this substance is also active in stress protection, which may increase its importance in the coming years. This paper presents a new approach to its application. Trinexapac-ethyl belongs to the cyclohexanedione class of herbicide chemistry, thus it is structurally similar to common graminicides frequently used with adjuvants. This study examines the effects of the application of trinexapac-ethyl with adjuvants. Field trials were conducted in the Institute of Plant Protection in Poznań (Poland), in 2014 and 2015. Trinexapac-ethyl was applied at recommended (0.4l・ha-1) and reduced doses (0.2l・ha-1) with organosilicone surfactant, ammonium sulphate and citric acid on spring barley. Stem shortening, yield components and grain quality were examined. The results of the study confirmed the possibility of dose reduction of trinexapac-ethyl by way of combined application with citric acid that reduced the pH of spray liquid or with ammonium sulphate without affecting its effectiveness. The greatest stem height reduction was observed after the application of a full dose of trinaxapac ethyl and its reduced dose in the mixture with citric acid or ammonium sulphate. Depending on the year of study, the effectiveness of the substances on stem reduction ranged from 5.6 to 16.5%. The tested mixtures did not have any significant impact on the number of grains per ear or the yield of spring barley. Trinexapac-ethyl and its mixtures with adjuvants did not influence the crude protein and starch in spring barley grains.
On the Priority of Tradition: An Exercise in Analytic Theology
Authors: Nemes Steven
Published: May 2017

This essay discusses the nature and relative priority of the sources for analytic theology with an eye to the manner in which the analytic theologian ought to orient herself to them. Of Tradition, Scripture, and (analytic) philosophy, the Tradition of the Church has ultimate priority as analytic-theological source insofar as it infallibly mediates the genuine, divinely revealed content of Scripture and justifies the utilization of analytic philosophy for theological purposes. The argument proposes a fundamental gap between the biblical text, which can be held in the hands and read, and Scripture, which is the revealed content communicated by the former and grasped by the intellect of the reader. Because of this gap, it is possible to be quite familiar with the biblical text and yet remain ignorant of Scripture, of the revealed truth of God. The Tradition of the Church functions as the bridge by which this “grand canyon” becomes crossable by offering normative interpretations of the biblical text. Consequently, the analytic theologian ought to be a committed adherent of this Tradition above all, making it the measure of all other things. This same Tradition also provides the theoretical justification for the appeal to (analytic) philosophy in the performance of the analytic theologian’s task through its teaching about the fundamental openness of the world to God, i.e. the world’s capacity to serve as medium for the divine-human dialog.
Divine Methodology: A Lawful Deflection of Kantian and Kantian-esque Defeaters
Authors: McNabb Tyler Dalton , Baldwin Erik Daniel
Published: May 2017

Immanuel Kant argues that though Divine revelation is ontologically possible, given phenomenal level constraints on our cognitive faculties, it isn’t epistemically possible for us to know or to recognize Divine revelation on the noumenal level of reality. We call this Kant’s Epistemological Objection Against Divine Revelation (EOADR). Contra Kant, in this paper, we argue that the EOADR doesn’t undermine the Reformed tradition’s view of Divine revelation because it has resources that make knowledge of Divine revelation intelligible. The primary way of establishing our argument is by articulating and furthering Alvin Plantinga’s religious epistemology. After doing this, we tackle two objections to our approach that are in the family of Kant‘s objection, namely Stephen Law‘s X-Argument Against Religious Belief and Erik Baldwin‘s Multiple Viable Extensions Objection. Similar to Kant‘s argument, these arguments attempt to show, that the Reformed epistemologist is in danger of acquiring an undercutting defeater for trusting her religious belief. We respond to each in turn.
Element Composition of Trachelomonas Envelopes (Euglenophyta)
Authors: Poniewozik Małgorzata
Published: May 2017

Cells of euglenoidTrachelomonasEhrenb. vary in the size, shape and appearance of the external envelope’s ornamentation, as well as internal structure. The loricae are generally similar in color, ranging from light (hyaline, yellowish, golden, reddish, brownish) to dark (brown, black). This study examined the loricae of twelve trachelomonad species, some light (yellow to golden) and some dark (brown). There were no black loricae, suggesting that little or no Mn was taken up by the cells. Though the envelopes differed in surface ornamentation and color, comparative SEM-EDS analyses of all the material studied showed high iron content, silicon mineralization, and no manganese. The degree of iron and silicon mineralization varied. Some loricae had high silicon content (e.g.,T. compactaMiddelhoeck) and others were more saturated by iron ions (T. manginiiDeflandre,T. lacustrisDrezep.).
Changes of hematological and biochemical parameters and levels of pepsinogen, histamine and prostaglandins in dairy cows affected with left displacement of the abomasum
Authors: Al-Rawashdeh O. , Ismail Z. Bani , Talafha A. , Al-Momani A.
Published: May 2017

The aims of this study were to determine the serum levels of pepsinogen, histamine, and prostaglandins F2α and E2 in lactating dairy cows affected with left displacement of the abomasum (LDA). In addition, the hematological and serum biochemical parameters were also determined in cows affected with LDA. A total of 52 adult lactating Holstein-Friesian cows affected with LDA and 30 normal cows (control) were used. In LDA cows, the average age, BCS and body weight were 4.9 ± 1.2 years, 2.5 ± 0.75, and 525 ± 150kg respectively. The average days-in-milk (DIM) in affected cows was 14 ± 6 with a range between 7 to 45 days. There were no significant differences in values of rectal temperature, heart rate and respiration rate between LDA cows and control. Rumen motility was significantly (p≤0.05) decreased in LDA cows. Cows affected with LDA had significantly (p≤0.05) increased glucose levels, and decreased levels of calcium and magnesium. There were significantly (p≤0.05) increased serum levels of pepsinogen and histamine in LDA cows while levels of prostaglandin E2 were significantly decreased in comparison to those in control cows. There were no significant changes in serum levels of prostaglandin F2α. In the hematology analyses, there were no significant changes in cows with LDA when compared to those in control cows. This study provides evidence of a possible role for pepsinogen, histamine and prostaglandin E2 in the etiopathophysiology of LDA in dairy cows.
Establishment of 5-Fluorouracil-resistant canine mammary tumor cell line
Authors: Zhou B. , Zhang D. , Pei S. M. , Zhang H. , Du H. C. , Jin Y. P. , Lin D. G.
Published: May 2017

Canine mammary tumors are the most common neoplasms in intact female dogs. The surgery cannot always solve the problem, chemotherapy are recommend to these patients. However, chemotherapy could always fail because of multidrug resistance (MDR). Through stepwise increasing 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) concentration in the culture medium, a 5-FU-resistant canine mammary tumor cell line CMT7364/5-FU was established to disclose the molecular mechanism of the drug resistance. Cell morphology, cell sensitivity to drugs, growth curves, expression of proteins, and chemo-sensitivity in vivo were compared between the parental cell line and resistant cell line. As compared it to its parental cell line (CMT7364), CMT7364/5-FU showed different morphology, cross-resistant to other chemo-drugs and a prolonged population doubling time (PDT). The drug efflux pump proteins (ABCB1 and ABCG2) in CMT7364/5-FU were up-regulated. In vivo, the similar result revealed that CMT7364/5-FU cell line was more resistant to 5-FU. In conclusion, a 5-FU-resistant canine mammary tumor cell line (CMT7364/5-FU) was successfully established, it can serve as a good model for researching the mechanism of MDR and screening effective agents to reverse drug resistance.
The Impact of Emotional Intelligence in the Context of Language Learning and Teaching
Authors: Tevdovska Elena Spirovska
Published: May 2017

Emotional intelligence, a set of skills which are considered as necessary in the context of interaction with other people, was defined by a number of authors, including Goleman (1996), Gardner and Mayer & Salovey. A number of studies investigated the impact of emotional intelligence on learning, teaching and education. The focus of this article is to explore the definition of emotional intelligence and the impact that emotional intelligence and affective factors have in the context of foreign language learning and teaching. The article also focuses on research conducted with a group of 23 students and their self assessment of emotional intelligence as well as their perceptions of the ways emotional intelligence has an impact on foreign language learning. The article attempts to provide recommendations of implementing activities and teaching practices in the context of foreign language learning and teaching aiming to foster emotional intelligence development.
The Dialogue of Arts in Romanian Contemporary Drama
Authors: Bilic Laura
Published: May 2017

The beginning of the 21st century is characterized in Romania by the emerging of a new generation of playwrights. Numerous actors or people coming “off the stage” begin to write drama, so that the playwrights become authors of the texts played on the stage. Thus, the playwrights join a trend that is common in Europe, being part of a category named by Bruno Tackels “les écrivains de plateau” - the writers of the stage. Nowadays, we witness a change in the way the young artists view drama - they do not only want to change the way of writing and performing drama, but they also want to change the world they live in. The contemporary performance has gradually lost its specificity by blending itself with visual arts, dance, music, technology, becoming a project. In our modern society the artists do not look for something meant to last forever, so the work of art becomes a continuous work in progress. Therefore, a bridge is being shattered - the bridge between nowadays and posterity.
Dialogue of Arts in the Contemporary Theatre. The Rhetoric of Expression in Plastic Arts and in Performing Arts
Authors: Caratănase Răzvan Constantin
Published: May 2017

In the plastic art and not only, colors have significant functions with regard to the perception or even to the symbolism of temperament. In many cultures on various geographical coordinates, the reception and the interpretation of colors is taken into consideration only when they are dynamically distinguished. Various types of expression that make us access various levels of perception, of rhetoric, of candidness, of sensation etc. Looking retrospectively on this empathic theory, generations of estheticians struggled with a large amount of pseudo-problems. This plea over expression (be it facial or gestural) in the context of plastic art or of theatrical art has a particular significance and, of course, it steadies both the receptor and the artist. We see nevertheless that, in the day-to-day life, the expression has a primary, unequivocal sense, and above all one takes into consideration the way in which a plastic artist and an actor treat and interpret reality. Let us not forget that the main attributes of communication are the expressive features. The expressive quality presents a real platform that rises the interest of a plastic artist or actor, because it allows him to grasp and to understand his own experience, which does nothing but contribute to the formal configurative that he will draw up.
The Birth and Evolution of Stanislavsky’s Method
Authors: Cojan Daniela
Published: May 2017

The stanislavskian system arises in full development of the realist current. Starting from the word, the actor expresses through gestures, intonations and mimics. The pre-stanislavskian actor is dominated by dilentatism and emotional “accidents”, the balance is tilted to an act full of clichés and crafts. Perhaps the most important lesson that Stanislavsky gives us is that for the actor in his work to reach a credible character, he must go through all states, sensations and feelings required in building a character. We cannot forget, however, that Stanislavsky devised a new method of representation also due to the emergence of Chekhovian texts. To give effect to the new ways of writing, the attention must focus on the actors, without neglecting the scenography. Stanislavsky wants to convince the actor that if he doesn’t want to use tricks to present truth, he should be just like a painter or musician, to devote his whole being, “body and soul especially” in the creative process.
The Call of the Dolphin in God’s Ear (or how is the theatre making the invisible, visible)
Authors: Broos Monica
Published: May 2017

Starting from the assumption that a dialogue of the means of expression specific to various arts should aspire, in the theatrical representation, to symbiosis, I’m looking at the performance with Job’s Butcher’s Shop, by Fausto Paravidino, directed by Radu Afrim, performance which recently had its openingnight at the National Theatre in Iaşi. I’m referring to the confluence of live music, acting and video images, proposing possible connexions and echoes one might consider.
Increased Malleability in Tetragonal ZrxTi1−xO2Ternary Alloys: First-Principles Approach
Authors: Ayedun F. , Adebambo P.O. , Adetunji B.I. , Ozebo V.C. , Oguntuase J.A. , Adebayo G.A.
Published: May 2017

Tetragonal phase of ZrxTi1−xO2ternary alloys is studied using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) projector augmented wave-based density functional theory (DFT). The calculations are used to characterize alloying effects of Zr substituting Ti in tutile TiO2. Band gap calculations show a direct band gap atx=0, while at other concentrations, an indirect band gap is observed. Electronic structure analysis shows that Zr alloying is capable of lowering the band gap transition of ZrxTi1−xO2atx=1 by the presence of an impurity state of transition metal Zr 5S2on the upper edge of the valence band. The addition of Zr also results in the corresponding increment in lattice constant with the material becoming more ductile and malleable.
Consideration for Power and Capacity in Volleyball Vertical Jump Performance
Authors: Martinez Daniel B.
Published: May 2017

CONSIDERATION FOR THE VOLLEYBALL ATHLETE'S DEVELOPMENT OF JUMPING POWER AND CAPACITY MUST BE PROVIDED TO ENSURE THESE QUALITIES ARE EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY MEASURED AND INTEGRATED INTO PERFORMANCE. VERTICAL JUMP IN VOLLEYBALL IS A COMPLEX BIOMECHANICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL QUALITY AND TESTING THIS QUALITY NEEDS TO BE VALID, RELIABLE, AND INDICATE KEY PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS. MONITORING THESE CHARACTERISTICS REQUIRES PRECISE COORDINATION ACROSS DEVELOPMENT. FURTHERMORE, SPORT AND STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAMS' ORGANIZATION IS CRITICAL BECAUSE OF GENERAL AND SPECIFIC CONSTRAINTS WITHIN THE TEAM AND ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK. FOR A VIDEO ABSTRACT OF THIS ARTICLE, SEE SUPPLEMENTAL DIGITAL CONTENT 1, (SEE VIDEO, HTTP://LINKS.LWW.COM/SCJ/A205).
The Single Leg Triple Hop for Distance Test
Authors: Williams Mary , Squillante Antonio , Dawes Jay
Published: May 2017

THE SINGLE LEG TRIPLE HOP FOR DISTANCE TEST IS AN EASY AND INEXPENSIVE METHOD OF ASSESSING A PLAYER'S INJURY RISK. THIS ARTICLE PROVIDES A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF HOW TO PERFORM AND ANALYZE THE RESULTS OF THIS TEST.
The Influence of Hip Muscle Impairments on Squat Performance
Authors: Kolber Morey J. , Stull Kyle R. , Cheatham Scott W. , Hanney William J.
Published: May 2017

THE SQUAT IS A FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT FOR WEIGHT LIFTING AND SPORT PERFORMANCE. BEYOND PERFORMANCE, BOTH UNILATERAL AND BILATERAL SQUATS ARE USED TO ASSESS DYNAMIC LOWER EXTREMITY CONTROL, AND THEY MAY BE OF VALUE FOR ASSESSING INJURY RISK AND FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COLUMN IS TO PRESENT AN EVIDENCE-BASED DISCUSSION OF THE INFLUENCE THAT HIP MUSCLE IMPAIRMENTS MAY HAVE ON UNILATERAL AND BILATERAL SQUAT PERFORMANCE. SPECIFICALLY, THE EFFECTS OF HIP MUSCLE PAIN, FATIGUE, AND TIGHTNESS ARE PRESENTED. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS ARE DISCUSSED WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF RECOGNIZING CHANGES ATTRIBUTED TO MUSCLE IMPAIRMENTS AND GUIDING SAFE EXERCISE PRESCRIPTION.
Wastewater treatment from ions of heavy and non-ferrous metals by ion-exchange adsorption
Authors: Babazhanova Sevara , Nurdillayeva Raushan
Published: May 2017

This article presents the results of experimental research on wastewater treatment from ions of heavy and non-ferrous metals by ion exchange adsorption. The object of investigation was a model solution containing ions of heavy and non-ferrous metals and prepared of wastewater from Turkestan locomotive depot. As a sorbent, phosphorus–acidic cationite KRF-10P was used. The impact of the cation exchanger mass, reaction time of cationite and temperature of the solution on the degree of wastewater treatment from ions of heavy and non-ferrous metals (Zn2+, Pb2+, Cd2+) were studied. On the basis of experiments, optimal conditions of wastewater treatment from ions of heavy and non-ferrous metals were established: mKRF-10P = 2.0 g, t = 1.0 h, T = 55°C. At the optimized conditions, the degree of wastewater treatment from zinc ions reached 96.1%, the degree of removal of lead ions reached 89%, the degree of removal of cadmium ions reached 95%.
Experimental results showed the possibility of wastewater treatment from ions of heavy and nonferrous metals by ion exchange adsorption using phosphorus–acidic cationite KRF-10P.
Simulation of activational grinding for rhombic sulfur particles in a disintegrator (pinned disc mill)
Authors: Urakaev Farit , Massalimov Ismail , Yusupov Talgat , Uralbekov Bolat , Tatykaev Batukhan , Galiyeva Perizat , Ketegenov Tlek , Burkitbayev Mukhambetkali
Published: May 2017

Based on the theoretical studies, complete picture of a mechanical processing of sulfur in the disintegrator is given. Kinematic and dynamic characteristics of elastic and inelastic collisions of particles of processed rhombic sulfur with rows of disintegrator fingers are calculated. Based on the analysis of the obtained dependency of the rotation frequency of the rotors offers, advices on selecting optimal conditions for activation milling of α-sulfur in the disintegrator are given. These results can be partially used in the processing of sulfur and in other types of shock grinding devices, in particular, jet mills.
Quantum-chemical study of activation of yellow phosphorus by copper(II) chloride
Authors: Tulegenov Akyl , Akbayeva Dina
Published: May 2017

Catalytic properties of Cu2+ ions in oxidation reactions of P4 were investigated in present work using quantum-chemical methods. The geometric structures of several transition metal complexes were determined. The oxidation of P4 molecules in reactions with alkane hydroxide compounds by means of interaction with Cu2+ ions is substantiated based on comparative analysis of energies. The mechanism of activation of P4 molecular cations is studied. The possibility of occurrence of the reaction is shown based on thermodynamic parameters.
Investigation of effect of template geometry on the crystal structure of Ni nanotubes
Authors: Kalkabay Gulnar , Kozlovskiy Artem , Shlimas Dmitry , Ibragimova Milan , Zdorovets Maxim , Borgekov Daryn , Tikhonov Alexander
Published: May 2017

Modifications of geometric characteristics and structural properties of Ni nanotubes obtained by template synthesis were considered in this research study. Ion-track polyethylene membranes with pores diameters in the range from 180 to 380 nm were used as templates. Methods of scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive and X-ray analysis were used to find influence of the geometrical properties of templates on structure, phase and elemental composition. X-ray analysis showed polycrystalline FCC-structure of nanotubes with crystal lattice parameters different from the standard values, indicating the presence of microstresses in the structure and microdistortions of lattice. We have made a hypothesis of the effect of template parameters on the crystal structure. With the increase of pores diameter, a predominance tendency of traversal of NT axis growth to longitudinal appeared, which could be explained by the increase of the deposited atoms quality. In this case, a tangential crystallites growth dominates over the growth in the normal direction due to layer-by-layer growth process.
Validated Bayesian Differentiation of Causative and Passenger Mutations
Authors: Cross Frederick R , Breker Michal , Lieberman Kristi
Published: May 2017

In many contexts, the problem arises of determining which of many candidate mutations is the most likely to be causative for some phenotype. It is desirable to have a way to evaluate this probability that relies as little as possible on previous knowledge, to avoid bias against discovering new genes or functions. We have isolated mutants with blocked cell cycle progression in Chlamydomonas and determined mutant genome sequences. Due to the intensity of UV mutagenesis required for efficient mutant collection, the mutants contain multiple mutations altering coding sequence. To provide a quantitative estimate of probability that each individual mutation in a given mutant is the causative one, we developed a Bayesian approach. The approach employs four independent indicators: sequence conservation of the mutated coding sequence with Arabidopsis; severity of the mutation relative to Chlamydomonas wild-type based on Blosum62 scores; meiotic mapping information for location of the causative mutation relative to known molecular markers; and, for a subset of mutants, the transcriptional profile of the candidate wild-type genes through the mitotic cell cycle. These indicators are statistically independent, and so can be combined quantitatively into a single probability calculation. We validate this calculation: recently isolated mutations that were not in the training set for developing the indicators, with high calculated probability of causality, are confirmed in every case by additional genetic data to indeed be causative. Analysis of “best reciprocal BLAST” (BRB) relationships among Chlamydomonas and other eukaryotes indicate that the temperature sensitive-lethal (Ts-lethal) mutants that our procedure recovers are highly enriched for fundamental cell-essential functions conserved broadly across plants and other eukaryotes, accounting for the high information content of sequence alignment to Arabidopsis.
Genetic Subtraction Profiling Identifies Candidate miRNAs Involved in Rice Female Gametophyte Abortion
Authors: Yang Liyu , Wu Ya , Wang Wenliang , Mao Bigang , Zhao Bingran , Wang Jianbo
Published: May 2017

The female gametophyte is an important participant in the sexual reproduction of plants. The molecular mechanism of its development has received much attention in recent years. As important regulators of gene expression, miRNAs have been certified to play a significant role in many biological processes of plants, including sexual reproduction. In this study, to investigate the potential regulatory effects of miRNAs on rice female gametophyte abortion, we used the high-throughput sequencing method to compare the miRNA transcriptome in ovules of a high frequency female-sterile line (fsv1) and a rice wild-type line (Gui 99) during ovule development. As a result, 522 known miRNAs and 295 novel miRNAs were expressed in the developing ovule of rice, while 100 known miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed between these two rice lines during ovule development. Combining with gene expression information, a total of 627 coherent target genes of these differential expressed known miRNAs between fsv1 and Gui 99 were identified. The functional analyses of these coherent target genes revealed that the coherent target genes of differential expressed known miRNAs between the two rice lines are involved in many biological pathways, such as protein degradation, auxin signal transduction, and transcription factor regulation. These results provide us with important clues to investigate the regulatory roles of miRNAs in rice female gametophyte abortion.
A Targeted Capture Linkage Map Anchors the Genome of the Schistosomiasis Vector Snail, Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Tennessen Jacob A , Bollmann Stephanie R , Blouin Michael S
Published: May 2017

The aquatic planorbid snail Biomphalaria glabrata is one of the most intensively-studied mollusks due to its role in the transmission of schistosomiasis. Its 916 Mb genome has recently been sequenced and annotated, but it remains poorly assembled. Here, we used targeted capture markers to map over 10,000 B. glabrata scaffolds in a linkage cross of 94 F1 offspring, generating 24 linkage groups (LGs). We added additional scaffolds to these LGs based on linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis of targeted capture and whole-genome sequences of 96 unrelated snails. Our final linkage map consists of 18,613 scaffolds comprising 515 Mb, representing 56% of the genome and 75% of genic and nonrepetitive regions. There are 18 large (> 10 Mb) LGs, likely representing the expected 18 haploid chromosomes, and > 50% of the genome has been assigned to LGs of at least 17 Mb. Comparisons with other gastropod genomes reveal patterns of synteny and chromosomal rearrangements. Linkage relationships of key immune-relevant genes may help clarify snail–schistosome interactions. By focusing on linkage among genic and nonrepetitive regions, we have generated a useful resource for associating snail phenotypes with causal genes, even in the absence of a complete genome assembly. A similar approach could potentially improve numerous poorly-assembled genomes in other taxa. This map will facilitate future work on this host of a serious human parasite.
Phased Genotyping-by-Sequencing Enhances Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Reveals Divergent Copy Number Variants in Maize
Authors: Manching Heather , Sengupta Subhajit , Hopper Keith R , Polson Shawn W , Ji Yuan , Wisser Randall J
Published: May 2017

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) of reduced representation genomic libraries has ushered in an era of genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS), where genome-wide genotype data can be obtained for nearly any species. However, there remains a need for imputation-free GBS methods for genotyping large samples taken from heterogeneous populations of heterozygous individuals. This requires that a number of issues encountered with GBS be considered, including the sequencing of nonoverlapping sets of loci across multiple GBS libraries, a common missing data problem that results in low call rates for markers per individual, and a tendency for applicability only in inbred line samples with sufficient linkage disequilibrium for accurate imputation. We addressed these issues while developing and validating a new, comprehensive platform for GBS. This study supports the notion that GBS can be tailored to particular aims, and using Zea mays our results indicate that large samples of unknown pedigree can be genotyped to obtain complete and accurate GBS data. Optimizing size selection to sequence a high proportion of shared loci among individuals in different libraries and using simple in silico filters, a GBS procedure was established that produces high call rates per marker (>85%) with accuracy exceeding 99.4%. Furthermore, by capitalizing on the sequence-read structure of GBS data (stacks of reads), a new tool for resolving local haplotypes and scoring phased genotypes was developed, a feature that is not available in many GBS pipelines. Using local haplotypes reduces the marker dimensionality of the genotype matrix while increasing the informativeness of the data. Phased GBS in maize also revealed the existence of reproducibly inaccurate (apparent accuracy) genotypes that were due to divergent copy number variants (CNVs) unobservable in the underlying single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data.
A diéta mint krízis
Authors: Lukács Liza
Published: May 2017

Az áttekintő tanulmány a kríziselmélet alkalmazhatóságát mutatja be az elhízás területén a testsúlycsökkentés folyamata során. A diétázás alatt megjelenő visszaesési krízissel foglalkozó kutatások többsége egy-egy kiváltó eseményre fókuszál. A jelen tanulmányban bemutatott elméleti modell a diétázás teljes folyamatát kríziskeltő szituációként elemzi, amely karakterisztikus vonásokkal jellemezhető az étellel kapcsolatos ingerek kognitív információfeldolgozása szempontjából. Fontos, hogy feltárjuk azokat a változókat, amelyek a diétázás alatt a visszaesésekért felelősek, s ennek mentén hatékonyabb beavatkozást tegyünk lehetővé az elhízott személyek számára nyújtott pszichológiai tanácsadás során. A tanulmányban egy új modell kerül bemutatásra, amely a diétázás kríziskeltő elemeit vizsgálja azzal a céllal, hogy a testsúlycsökkentés folyamata során a visszaesés esélye csökkenthető legyen. A diétázás folyamatának kríziskeltő helyzetként való elemzése újszerű intervenciós és prevenciós lehetőséget is nyújt. Az elméleti áttekintés megállapítása szerint számos tényező, úgy, mint az irreális célsúly, a megküzdési készségek hiányosságai, korlátozó (restriktív) diétázás fokozzák a krízishelyzet kialakulásának valószínűségét, amely végül a diétázás és a testsúlycsökkentés érdekében végzett testmozgás feladásához vezet.
Development and Application of Electroluminescence Imaging for CdS/CdTe Characterization
Authors: Feldman Scott , Seymour Fred , Ohno Tim , Kaydanov Victor , Collins Reuben
Published: May 2017

A technique for spatially resolved optical characterization of CdS/CdTe thin film solar cells has been developed using electroluminescence (EL). In EL, excess minority carriers are injected via forward biasing. Light produced in radiative carrier recombination is collected with a CCD camera. Because EL intensity depends upon radiative vs. non-radiative recombination lifetimes, EL provides insight into material quality.

Spatial resolution is a key benefit of EL as it provides insight into the non-uniformities of polycrystalline CdTe. At high magnification the resolution is diffraction limited, but coarser measurements of up to several millimeters in range may also be made. Non-uniformities in emission have been observed throughout this range.

Further benefits of EL as a characterization technique are as follows: EL probes the region of most interest, namely the CdTe near the main junction. Also, it is observable at room temperature and data acquisition is fast. Finally, EL is observable at very low carrier injection rates, comparable to short circuit current. (Though more structure is often revealed at higher injection rates.) This low injection means that EL can be a non-destructive probe. This fact, along with the aforementioned ease of observation, means that EL could possibly be used for quality control and in situ testing of modules.

Data gathered from CdS/CdTe cells from various institutions deposited using different methods such as close spaced sublimation, vapor transport, and sputtering are presented. In addition to changes in deposition technique, changes in processing parameters were observed to affect EL emission. Furthermore, overall EL emission decreased noticeably with stress at various biases and elevated temperature, with non-uniformity increasing in many cases. Changes in EL become apparent before changes in parameters acquired with standard current-voltage measurements, suggesting that this technique can be used as an early indicator for degrading cells. Finally, some dramatic changes in EL with stress suggest highly non-uniform degradation of the back contact.
Efficacy of Trabectedin in Patients with Advanced Translocation-Related Sarcomas: Pooled Analysis of Two Phase II Studies
Authors: Takahashi Mitsuru , Takahashi Shunji , Araki Nobuhito , Sugiura Hideshi , Ueda Takafumi , Yonemoto Tsukasa , Morioka Hideo , Hiraga Hiroaki , Hiruma Toru , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Matsumine Akihiko , Shimura Masashi , Kawai Akira
Published: May 2017

Background

Trabectedin is reported as effective, especially against translocation-related sarcomas (TRSs) after failure of or intolerance to standard chemotherapy. We conducted two phase II studies of TRS, confirming high efficacy of 1.2 mg/m2 trabectedin. The updated data of 66 patients in these studies was integrated to evaluate the efficacy of trabectedin against each histological subtype, and analyze final overall survival (OS).

Methods

Trabectedin was administered on day one of a 21-day cycle. Efficacy was assessed using progression-free survival (PFS), OS, and best overall response. An analysis of OS and PFS was performed for subgroups divided by baseline lymphocyte count (<1,000/μL, ≥1,000/μL) or number of previous chemotherapy regimens (0, 1, 2, ≥3 regimens), and a Weibull parametric model was used to estimate the numerical relationship between lymphocyte count and PFS and OS.

Results

Median PFS and OS in overall patients were 5.6 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.1–7.3) and 17.5 months (95% CI: 12.6–23.6), respectively. PFS in the myxoid and round-cell liposarcoma (MRCL) group (7.4 months [95% CI: 5.6–11.1]) was longer than in the other subtypes. The response rate was also highest in the MRCL group. Median OS was longer in patients with baseline lymphocyte counts ≥1,000/μL than in those with counts of <1,000/μL, but median PFS was not different between the two subgroups.

Conclusion

Our updated and pooled data showed that trabectedin exerted prolonged disease control and antitumor effects in patients with advanced TRS, especially in MRCL. We consider that the subgroup analyses also provide important information for trabectedin treatment in patients with TRS.
p16, HPV, and Cetuximab: What Is the Evidence?
Authors: Bonner James A. , Mesia Ricard , Giralt Jordi , Psyrri Amanda , Keilholz Ulrich , Rosenthal David I. , Beier Frank , Schulten Jeltje , Vermorken Jan B.
Published: May 2017

Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. It has recently been appreciated that human papillomavirus (HPV) status (or p16 status, which is a frequently used surrogate for HPV status) is prognostic for oropharyngeal SCCHN. Here, we review and contextualize existing p16 and HPV data, focusing on the cetuximab registration trials in previously untreated, locoregionally advanced, nonmetastatic SCCHN (LA SCCHN) and in recurrent and/or metastatic SCCHN (R/M SCCHN): the IMCL-9815 and EXTREME clinical trials, respectively. Taken together, the available data suggest that, while p16 and HPV are prognostic biomarkers in patients with LA SCCHN and R/M SCCHN, it could not be shown that they are predictive for the outcomes of the described cetuximab-containing trial regimens. Consequently, although HPV status provides prognostic information, it is not shown to predict therapy response, and so is not helpful for assigning first-line therapy in patients with SCCHN. In addition, we discuss assays currently used to assess p16 and HPV status, as well as the differentiation between these two biomarkers. Ultimately, we believe HPV E6/E7 polymerase chain reaction–based mRNA testing may represent the most informative technique for assessing HPV status in patients with SCCHN. While p16 is a valid surrogate for HPV status in oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC), there is a higher risk of discordance between p16 and HPV status in non-OPC SCCHN. Collectively, these discussions hold key implications for the clinical management of SCCHN.
Management of Treatment-Related Adverse Events with Agents Targeting the MAPK Pathway in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Daud Adil , Tsai Katy
Published: May 2017

Tremendous progress has been made in the clinical landscape of advanced-stage BRAF V600–mutant melanoma treatment over the past 5 years. Targeted therapies that inhibit specific steps of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway have been shown to provide significant overall treatment benefit in patients with this difficult-to-treat disease. Combination therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors (dabrafenib plus trametinib or vemurafenib plus cobimetinib, respectively) has become standard of care. These agents are administered until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs; thus, some patients may remain on maintenance therapy for an extended period of time, while toxicities may result in early discontinuation in other patients. Because the goal of treatment is to prolong survival with minimal impairment of quality of life, drug-related adverse events (AEs) require prompt management to ensure that patients derive the best possible benefit from therapy. Proper management depends on an understanding of which AEs are most likely BRAF or MEK inhibitor associated, thus providing a rationale for dose modification of the appropriate drug. Additionally, the unique safety profile of the chosen regimen may influence patient selection and monitoring. This review discusses the toxicity profiles of these agents, with a focus on the most commonly reported and serious AEs. Here, we offer practical guidance derived from our clinical experience for the optimal management of key drug-related AEs.
DEMANDA CONTRATADA E CONSUMO DE ENERGIA ELÉTRICA EM UNIDADES ARMAZENADORAS DE GRÃOS
Authors: David Eduardo , Cabelleira dos Santos Fernanda de Camargo , Vieira Neto Jose Gabriel , Escano Gabriela Mayara Goes
Published: May 2017

Tendo em vista o atual custo das tarifas de energia, observa-se a necessidade de se procurar formas de se obter o máximo de desempenho produtivo com o menor consumo possível de energia elétrica oriunda do sistema convencional de distribuição. A opção pela geração local de energia elétrica em sistemas de armazenamento de grãos através de geradores próprios é onerosa na maioria dos casos. A conservação e o uso racional da energia elétrica contribuem na utilização da mesma sem gastos desnecessários na redução do consumo sem a necessidade de grandes investimentos iniciais por parte dos produtores rurais. Uma dentre várias formas de se praticar a conservação de energia é a realização de um diagnóstico energético na unidade armazenadora. A análise criteriosa dos dados contidos nas faturas de energia, possibilita a observação do padrão de uso desta e dos ganhos resultantes das ações de implementações de medidas de eficientização. O objetivo deste trabalho foi a análise criteriosa dos dados de consumo de energia elétrica (dentro e fora da ponta) e demanda contratada (fora da ponta) de onze unidades de armazenamento de grãos situadas nas regiões Norte Central e Norte Pioneiro do Estado do Paraná. Os resultados demonstram a necessidade de se reavaliar a atual forma de utilização da energia despendida para o armazenamento de grãos no tocante ao horário de consumo e demanda contratada.
AVALIAÇÃO DA EXPOSIÇÃO DO OPERADOR À VIBRAÇÃO NA OPERAÇÃO DE GRADAGEM
Authors: Santos Viviane Castro dos , Monteiro Leonardo De Almeida , Macedo Deivielison Ximenes Siqueira , Melo Rafaela Paula , Queiroz Marília Lessa de Vasconcelos
Published: May 2017

A atividade agrícola brasileira se expandiu muito nos últimos anos e o crescimento desta atividade se deve principalmente pelo uso de novas tecnologias no campo e melhoria e modernização do maquinário agrícola. Objetivou-se avaliar a exposição do operador de tratores agrícolas à vibrações de corpo inteiro na operação de gradagem. O experimento foi realizado sobre área que apresentava relevo plano levemente ondulado, com 10% de umidade preparada anteriormente com operação de aração. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 3, com 10 repetições, sendo duas rotações do motor (1860 e 2200 rpm) que correspondem a rotação mediana e final do motor do trator, de acordo com o fabricante e três velocidades de deslocamento (L3, L4 e H1,), correspondendo respectivamente as velocidades (4,8, 6,8 e 8,8 km h-1). O experimento foi realizado de acordo com as diretrizes determinadas pela NHO – 09 (2013) e o anexo A da norma ISO 5008 (2002) À medida que a velocidade de deslocamento e a rotação do motor aumentaram os valores de aceleração de vibração também aumentaram. Todos os tratamentos avaliados apresentaram valores acima do nível aceitável pela NHO-09, sendo que a rotação de 1860 rpm e a velocidade de 4,8 km.h-1 a condição que apresenta menores valores de aceleração de vibração.