bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mRNA pseudouridylation affects RNA metabolism in the parasite Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Nakamoto Margaret A. , Lovejoy Alexander F. , Cygan Alicja M. , Boothroyd John C.
Published: August 2017

RNA contains over 100 modified nucleotides that are created post-transcriptionally, among which pseudouridine (Ψ) is one of the most abundant. Although it was one of the first modifications discovered, the biological role of this modification is still not fully understood. Recently, we reported that a pseudouridine synthase (TgPUS1) is necessary for differentiation of the single-celled eukaryotic parasite Toxoplasma gondii from active to chronic infection. To better understand the biological role of pseudouridylation, we report here gel-based and deep-sequencing methods to identify TgPUS1-dependent Ψ’s in Toxoplasma RNA, and the use of TgPUS1 mutants to examine the effect of this modification on mRNAs. In addition to identifying conserved sites of pseudouridylation in Toxoplasma rRNA, tRNA, and snRNA, we also report extensive pseudouridylation of Toxoplasma mRNAs, with the Ψ’s being relatively depleted in the 3′-UTR but enriched at position 1 of codons. We show that many Ψ’s in tRNA and mRNA are dependent on the action of TgPUS1 and that TgPUS1-dependent mRNA Ψ’s are enriched in developmentally regulated transcripts. RNA-seq data obtained from wild-type and TgPUS1-mutant parasites shows that genes containing a TgPUS1-dependent Ψ are relatively more abundant in mutant parasites, while pulse/chase labeling of RNA with 4-thiouracil shows that mRNAs containing TgPUS1-dependent Ψ have a modest but statistically significant increase in half-life in the mutant parasites. These data are some of the first evidence suggesting that mRNA Ψ’s play an important biological role.
Current concepts and controversies in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Weil Rimona S. , Lashley Tammaryn L. , Bras Jose , Schrag Anette E. , Schott Jonathan M.
Published: August 2017

Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are relentlessly progressive neurodegenerative disorders that are likely to represent two ends of a disease spectrum. It is well established that both are characterised pathologically by widespread cortical Lewy body deposition. However, until recently, the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to neuronal damage were not known. It was also not understood why some cells are particularly vulnerable in PDD/DLB, nor why some individuals show more aggressive and rapid dementia than others. Recent studies using animal and cell models as well as human post-mortem analyses have provided important insights into these questions. Here, we review recent developments in the pathophysiology in PDD/DLB. Specifically, we examine the role of pathological proteins other than α-synuclein, consider particular morphological and physiological features that confer vulnerabilities on some neurons rather than others, and finally examine genetic factors that may explain some of the heterogeneity between individuals with PDD/DLB.
Continuous training and certification in neonatal resuscitation in remote areas using a multi-platform information and communication technology intervention, compared to standard training: A randomized cluster trial study protocol
Authors: Delgado Carlos Alberto , Gómez Pomar Enrique M. , Velásquez Pablo , Sánchez Víctor , Shimabuku Roberto , Huicho Luis ,   RCPNEOPERU Study Group
Published: August 2017

Background: About 10% of all newborns may have difficulty breathing and require support by trained personnel. In Peru, 90% of deliveries occur in health facilities. However, there is not a national neonatal resuscitation and certification program for the public health sector. In addition, the Andes and the Amazon regions concentrate large rural remote areas, which further limit the implementation of training programs and the accomplishment of continuous certification. Neonatal resuscitation training through the use of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) tools, running on computers, tablets or mobile phones, may overcome such limitations. This strategy allows online and offline access to educational resources, paving the way to more frequent and efficient training, and certification processes.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a neonatal resuscitation training and certification program that uses a Multi-Platform ICT (MP-ICT) strategy on neonatal health care in remote areas.

Methods: We propose to conduct the study through a cluster-randomized trial, where the study and analysis unit is the health care facility. Eligible facilities will include primary and secondary health care level facilities that are located in provinces with neonatal mortality rates higher than 15 per 1,000 live births. We will compare the proportion of newborns with a heart rate ≥100 beats per minute at two minutes after birth in health care facilities that receive MP-ICT training and certification implementation, with those that receive standard training and certification.

Discussion: We expect that the intervention will be shown as more effective than the current standard of care. We are prepared to include it within a national neonatal resuscitation training and certification program to be implemented at national scale together with policymakers and other key stakeholders. 

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Nº NCT03210194

Status of the study: This study is ongoing.

Study protocol version 1.1 – March 31st, 2017
In silico analysis of natural compounds targeting structural and nonstructural proteins of chikungunya virus
Authors: Jain Jaspreet , Kumari Anchala , Somvanshi Pallavi , Grover Abhinav , Pai Somnath , Sunil Sujatha
Published: August 2017

Background:Chikungunya fever presents as a high-grade fever during its acute febrile phase and can be prolonged for months as chronic arthritis in affected individuals. Currently, there are no effective drugs or vaccines against this virus. The present study was undertaken to evaluate protein-ligand interactions of all chikungunya virus (CHIKV) proteins with natural compounds from a MolBase library in order to identify potential inhibitors of CHIKV.

Methods:Virtual screening of the natural compound library against four non-structural and five structural proteins of CHIKV was performed. Homology models of the viral proteins with unknown structures were created and energy minimized by molecular dynamic simulations. Molecular docking was performed to identify the potential inhibitors for CHIKV. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) toxicity parameters for the potential inhibitors were predicted for further prioritization of the compounds.

Results:Our analysis predicted three compounds, Catechin-5-O-gallate, Rosmarinic acid and Arjungenin, to interact with CHIKV proteins; two (Catechin-5-O-gallate and Rosmarinic acid) with capsid protein, and one (Arjungenin) with the E3.

Conclusion:The compounds identified show promise as potential antivirals, but furtherin vitrostudies are required to test their efficacy against CHIKV.
Spatial intratumoural heterogeneity in the expression of GIT1 is associated with poor prognostic outcome in oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer patients with synchronous lymph node metastases
Authors: Goicoechea Ibai , Rezola Ricardo , Arestin María , Caffarel María M. , Cortazar Ana Rosa , Manterola Lorea , Fernandez-Mercado Marta , Armesto María , Sole Carla , Larrea Erika , M. Araujo Angela , Ancizar Nerea , Plazaola Arrate , Urruticoechea Ander , Carracedo Arkaitz , Ruiz Irune , Alvarez Lopez Isabel , Lawrie Charles H.
Published: August 2017

Background: The outcome for oestrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients has improved greatly in recent years largely due to targeted therapy. However, the presence of involved multiple synchronous lymph nodes remains associated with a poor outcome. Consequently, these patients would benefit from the identification of new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The expression of G-protein-coupled receptor kinase-interacting protein 1 (GIT1) has recently been shown to be an indicator of advanced stage breast cancer. Therefore, we investigated its expression and prognostic value of GIT1 in a cohort of 140 ER+ breast cancer with synchronous lymph node involvement.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess GIT1 expression in a tissue microarray (TMA) containing duplicate non-adjacent cores with matched primary tumour and lymph node tissue (n=140). GIT1 expression in tumour cells was scored and statistical correlation analyses were carried out.

Results: The results revealed a sub-group of patients that displayed discordant expression of GIT1 between the primary tumour and the lymph nodes (i.e. spatial intratumoural heterogeneity). We observed that loss of GIT1 expression in the metastasis was associated with a shorter time to recurrence, poorer overall survival, and a shorter median survival time. Moreover, multivariate analysis demonstrated that GIT1 expression was an independent prognostic indicator.

Conclusions: GIT1 expression enabled the identification of a sub-class of ER+ patients with lymph node metastasis that have a particularly poor prognostic outcome. We propose that this biomarker could be used to further stratify ER+ breast cancer patients with synchronous lymph node involvement and therefore facilitate adjuvant therapy decision making.
First record of the Ligia baudiniana species complex in the American Gulf of Mexico Coastline, as confirmed by morphological and molecular approaches
Authors: Santamaria Carlos A. , Bischoff III Edgar T. , Aye Moe , Phillips Keith W. , Overmeyer Victoria
Published: August 2017

Ligia isopods exhibit a constrained morphology that makes identification difficult. In the Greater Caribbean, a convoluted taxonomic history has left the distributional limits of Ligia baudiniana unclear. To date, no confirmed records of this species exist from the American Gulf of Mexico. Herein, we report the presence of L. baudiniana in Sarasota-Manatee Florida, as confirmed by morphological and molecular approaches. This is the first record of this species in the region and a ~300Km extension of its range. Specimens were collected in mangroves, underscoring the importance of protecting these habitats.
Synthetic ALSPAC longitudinal datasets for the Big Data VR project
Authors: Avraam Demetris , Wilson Rebecca C. , Burton Paul
Published: August 2017

Three synthetic datasets - of observation size 15,000, 155,000 and 1,555,000 participants, respectively - were created by simulating eleven cardiac and anthropometric variables from nine collection ages of the ALSAPC birth cohort study. The synthetic datasets retain similar data properties to the ALSPAC study data they are simulated from (co-variance matrices, as well as the mean and variance values of the variables) without including the original data itself or disclosing participant information.  In this instance, the three synthetic datasets have been utilised in an academia-industry collaboration to build a prototype virtual reality data analysis software, but they could have a broader use in method and software development projects where sensitive data cannot be freely shared.
Designing Incentive Systems for Truthful Forecast Information Sharing Within a Firm
Authors: Scheele Lisa M. , Thonemann Ulrich W. , Slikker Marco
Published: August 2017

We consider a firm where the sales division (Sales) is responsible for demand forecasting and the operations division (Operations) is responsible for ordering. Sales has better information about the demand than Operations and sends a nonbinding demand forecast to Operations. To incentivize truthful information sharing, we include a forecast error penalty in the incentive system of Sales. Besides monetary payoffs, we also add behavioral factors to the utility function of Sales. We model the setting as a signaling game and derive the Pareto-dominant separating equilibria of the game. In laboratory experiments, we observe human behavior that is in line with the predictions of the behavioral model but deviates substantially from expected-payoff-maximizing behavior. We use the behavioral model to design incentive systems for truthful information sharing and validate the approach in an experiment with out-of-sample treatments and out-of-sample subjects. We conduct additional experiments to provide further robustness to the results.

The experimental data and e-companion are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2017.2805 .

This paper was accepted by Martin Lariviere, operations management.
Bone metastases of the hand
Authors: Morris G , Evans S , Stevenson J , Kotecha A , Parry M , Jeys L , Grimer R
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The aim of this study was to identify patients with malignant hand lesions, establish the proportions of those that were metastases and review their clinical course.

Methods

A retrospective search of a prospective tumour database was carried out to identify all patients treated at our unit with hand metastases. Patient demographics were recorded including site of primary malignancy, region of the hand involved, management of their metastasis and clinical outcome.

Results

Overall, 149 patients were identified with a malignant tumour of the hand. Ten had a metastatic lesion. There were 3 women and 7 men with a median age of 68 years (range: 28–91 years) at presentation. All presented with non-mechanical hand pain while four had pain and swelling. The median interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was eight weeks. The minimum follow-up duration was four months. Three patients had no history of malignancy. Of the remaining seven patients, three had other known metastases. Six patients underwent solely palliative radiotherapy. Three patients had amputation. One was treated with surgical excision and radiotherapy. One had an amputation and axillary node clearance. All but one patient had died by the time of the latest follow-up appointment. The median time to death following identification of acrometastases was 18 months. Sites of primary disease were skin (n=4), lung (n=3), kidney (n=2) and neuroendocrine system (n=1). The thumb was the most commonly affected location.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that patients presenting with non-mechanical hand pain should be considered to have a malignant process until proved otherwise, particularly in patients with thumb symptoms and a history of prior malignancy.
Clinical depression: surgeons and mental illness
Authors: Gerada Clare
Published: August 2017

Surgeons are among the least likely of all medical practitioners to seek help for mental health problems. What makes them a minority within a minority?
The era of the surgeon–author
Authors: Court Stephen
Published: August 2017

Stephen Court asks what lies behind the success of the recent spate of surgeons who have swapped the scalpel for the pen (or rather, laptop)?
May Day: the NHS cyberattack
Authors: Sayburn Anna
Published: August 2017

In 2016 we investigated what might happen if the NHS was the subject of a cybercrime attack. Our report warned that hospitals would be crippled, and experts said it wasn’t a question of ‘if’ – but, rather, ‘when’. Six months later, the feared attack happened. Anna Sayburn returns to talk to some of those in the eye of the storm about what happened, and whether lessons can be learnt.
A pleasant surprise
Authors: Abdelrahman Shadi , Maher Ahmed
Published: August 2017

A young surgeon from Cairo talks about performing his firstever Caesarean section during his maiden assignment with Médecins Sans Frontières.
Be informed; then disclose
Authors: Wheeler Robert
Published: August 2017

Each month we take a close look at a recent legal case with implications for the surgical profession.
Treasures from the Collections
Authors: Begum Fahema
Published: August 2017

Sir John Simon and the Sanitary Act
O poder episcopal e a Misericórdia de Viseu (1516-1720)
Authors: Nunes João
Published: August 2017

Entre 1516 e 1720, a esmagadora maioria dos antístites de Viseu foi provedor da Misericórdia de Viseu. Noutras cidades, sede de cátedra episcopal, os bispos assumiram igualmente funções de responsabilidade nas confrarias. O facto de as Misericórdias terem sido dirigidas por bispos revela que as relações de proximidade entre confrarias o poder episcopal eram efetivas. Com este estudo pretende-se entrever a forma como essas relações se materializaram em Viseu.
Echocardiographic Classification and Surgical Approaches to Double-Outlet Right Ventricle for Great Arteries Arising Almost Exclusively from the Right Ventricle
Authors: Pang Kun-Jing , Meng Hong , Hu Sheng-Shou , Wang Hao , Hsi David , Hua Zhong-Dong , Pan Xiang-Bin , Li Shou-Jun
Published: August 2017

Selecting an appropriate surgical approach for double-outlet right ventricle (DORV), a complex congenital cardiac malformation with many anatomic variations, is difficult. Therefore, we determined the feasibility of using an echocardiographic classification system, which describes the anatomic variations in more precise terms than the current system does, to determine whether it could help direct surgical plans. Our system includes 8 DORV subtypes, categorized according to 3 factors: the relative positions of the great arteries (normal or abnormal), the relationship between the great arteries and the ventricular septal defect (committed or noncommitted), and the presence or absence of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO). Surgical approaches in 407 patients were based on their DORV subtype, as determined by echocardiography. We found that the optimal surgical management of patients classified as normal/committed/no RVOTO, normal/committed/RVOTO, and abnormal/committed/no RVOTO was, respectively, like that for patients with large ventricular septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, and transposition of the great arteries without RVOTO. Patients with abnormal/committed/RVOTO anatomy and those with abnormal/noncommitted/RVOTO anatomy underwent intraventricular repair and double-root translocation. For patients with other types of DORV, choosing the appropriate surgical approach and biventricular repair techniques was more complex. We think that our classification system accurately groups DORV patients and enables surgeons to select the best approach for each patient's cardiac anatomy.
Optical Coherence Tomographic Evaluation of Hyperacute Bivalirudin-Induced Coronary Stent Thrombosis
Authors: Peñalver Jorge L. , Shatila Wassim , Perin Emerson
Published: August 2017

Thrombus formation after stent deployment has been linked to the use of heparin and of antithrombotic agents, such as bivalirudin, during percutaneous coronary intervention. Fluoroscopy has been used to identify stent thrombosis, typically after patients become symptomatic. We describe our use of optical coherence tomography to diagnose and evaluate intraprocedural stent thrombosis in a 68-year-old man who was given bivalirudin just before a percutaneous coronary procedure. This imaging method enabled immediate therapeutic intervention.
Labeling of Agri-food Products in Albanian Agriculture Context
Authors: Llazo Edlira , Noti Elton
Published: August 2017

Albanian agriculture and especially the albanian farmer are experiencing a difficult situation with the ability to compete in the market.Albanian agriculture is a very important sector of the economy but with little contribution in the economic growth, due to a misorientation in the market of the albanian production. This study aims to adress some concerns and to open a discussion linked to the use of labelling as an instrument that would orient the albanian agriculture to a product with an added value and to make the albanian product a competitor even for the global market, based on the wide literature and on the experience of the more developed countires also referring to primary data.
The Effectiveness of Four-Factor Therapy: The Relationship of Therapy, Therapy Expectation, Increasing Awareness and Ordered Behavior on Reducing Marriage Conflicts
Authors: Asem Fatemeh Modaresi , Kashani Farah Lotfi , Vaziri Shahram
Published: August 2017

Marriage conflicts lead to reduction of marriage, health and the healthy relationship with children. The side-effects of dissatisfaction with mental and physical health of spouses and children show the necessity of marriage interactions improvement and codification of various plans. This research attempts to present new results by investigating the effectiveness of four-factor therapy: the effect of therapy, therapy hope and expectation, increasing awareness, and ordered-behavior in marriage conflicts. This research is a semi-experimental based on the research type, 26 people were selected randomly among 40 people who were volunteering to take part in the therapy group and they were distributed into two groups experiment and control. The people who were in the experiment group experience than 2-hour sessions of group tetrahedron psychotherapy and the 54-questions questionnaire of marriage conflicts were applied in both groups as a pre-test and post-test questionnaire. Multi-variable covariance analysis was deployed in order to analyze the data. The data showed the significant difference between the scores of experimental group and control group and these results show the effectiveness of four-factor psychotherapy as an effective approach for reducing marriage conflicts and for improvement of couples′ relationships. The four-factor components of therapy can be effective on reducing marriage conflicts separately. Actually, this approach creates a relationship therapy (the hope creation in relationship improvement) and by this method the couple get noticed of their problem and understand how to modify their behavior and subsequently how to organize it.
Association of Ejaculate Sperm Counts with their Morphological and Morphometric Characteristics in Hypor Boars
Authors: Górski Krzysztof , Kondracki Stanisław , Strachocka Karolina , Wysokińska Anna
Published: August 2017

Reproductive efficiency in pigs is largely dependent on the fertility of the boar. Boars used at insemination stations should produce a large amount of semen with high fertilization capacity. The sperm count influences the conception rate and the number of insemination doses produced. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and morphometric characteristics of boars of the Hypor breed in relation to the total sperm count in the ejaculate. An analysis was performed of 120 ejaculates collected from 12 Hypor boars used at three insemination stations. The ejaculate sperm count was found to affect the morphometric characteristics of spermatozoa from boars. In the ejaculates with the lowest sperm count the spermatozoa heads were significantly shorter and narrower and had a smaller surface area. The sperm from ejaculates with the lowest sperm count had relatively small head dimensions in relation to the tail length and total sperm length. In the ejaculates with the most sperm cells, the proportion of spermatozoa with major defects was significantly greater than in the ejaculates from other groups. In the ejaculates with the lowest sperm count the frequency of sperm with progressive motility was significantly lower. The fewest insemination doses can be prepared from these ejaculates.
Does road transport influence plasma leptin concentrations in horses? Preliminary study
Authors: Kędzierski Witold , Bełkot Zbigniew
Published: August 2017

Transport is one of the most common stressors for horses leading to an increase in cortisol secretion. Cortisol promotes leptin synthesis and release. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of short transport on circulating leptin and cortisol concentrations. A total of 16 crossbred naïve horses (7 geldings, 9 mares) aged 2-11 years, and weighing 530-680 kg were included in the study. The horses were transported in a commercial horse-truck to an unknown holding pen for temporary housing. To measure plasma leptin and cortisol concentrations, three blood samples were collected from each horse: before transport, immediately after unloading from the truck, and nine hours after transport at the arrival point. Transport caused a significant increase in mean plasma cortisol concentration determined at unloading, and after nine hours of unloading, in comparison to values obtained before loading. Plasma leptin concentrations did not change during the study. In conclusion, transportation procedures did not influence plasma leptin concentration in horses, despite significantly increased cortisol release.
Gabor orthonormal bases generated by indicator functions of parallelepiped-shaped sets
Authors: Burgiel Heidi , Oussa Vignon
Published: August 2017

The main objective of the present work is to provide a procedure to construct Gabor orthonormal bases generated by indicator functions of parallelepiped-shaped sets. Given two full-rank lattices of the same volume, we investigate conditions under which there exists a common fundamental domain which is the image of a unit cube under an invertible linear operator. More precisely, we provide a characterization of pairs of full-rank lattices in{\mathbb{R}^{d}}admitting common connected fundamental domains of the type{N[0,1)^{d}}, whereNis an invertible matrix. As a byproduct of our results, we are able to construct a large class of Gabor windows which are indicator functions of sets of the type{N[0,1)^{d}}. We also apply our results to construct multivariate Gabor frames generated by smooth windows of compact support. Finally, we prove in the two-dimensional case that there exists an uncountable family of pairs of lattices of the same volume which do not admit a common connected fundamental domain of the type{N[0,1)^{2}}, whereNis an invertible matrix.
Fiscal Behavior Volatility, Economic Growth, and Urban-Rural Income Disparity
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Liu Shulin
Published: August 2017

Fiscal behavior of local governments has great volatility in China, especially in the period of economic transition. This paper estimates fiscal behavior volatility by making regression analysis of panel data of 30 provinces from 1994 to 2011. Then we establish a dynamic panel model to study the direct and indirect impact of the fiscal behavior volatility on the urban-rural income disparity. Empirical results show that urban-rural income disparity has nonlinear relationship with economic growth and financial development and that fiscal behavior volatility expands the urban-rural income disparity directly and indirectly. The larger fiscal behavior volatility comes greater urban-rural income disparity. We also find that the urban-rural income disparity is further enlarged through dual economic structure. If one of the economic growth and financial development is fixed, the other one has an inverted U-shaped relationship with urban-rural income disparity.
A Convergent Control Strategy for Quantum Systems
Authors: Cong Shuang , Lou Yuesheng , Liu Jianxiu , Kuang Sen
Published: August 2017

In the interaction picture, a sufficient and necessary condition that guarantees the convergence of closed quantum control system is proposed in this paper. Theoretical derivation and the proof show that it is possible to achieve the convergence to the target state by constructing an observable operator in an energy function and selecting control Hamiltonians. Numerical simulation experiments on a four-level system verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Exponential Stability and Availability Analysis of a Complex Standby System
Authors: Wang Chunli , Teng Mingyan , Zheng Fu
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we first investigate the solution of the two correlated units redundant system with two types of failure. By using the method of functional analysis, especially, the c0 semigroup theory of bounded linear operators on Banach space, we prove the well-posedness and the existence of positive solution of the system. By analyzing the spectra distribution of the system operator, we prove that the dynamic solution of the system asymptotically converges to the nonnegative steady-state solution which is the eigenfunction corresponding to eigenvalue 0 of the system operator. Furthermore, we discuss the exponential stability of the system. Finally, we analyze the reliability the system with the help of our main results and present some reliability indices of the system at the end of the paper.
An Exploratory Study on the Dimensions that Motivate the Attitudes of Young Consumers to the Consumption of Luxury Products
Authors: Ferreira Mariana Ângelo , Tamashiro Helenita Rodrigues da Silva , Braga Sergio Silva
Published: August 2017

Given the global economic context, most luxury brands are investing on the growth of so-called “emerging markets”, such as Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICs), so that new metropolitan areas emerge as recognized centers of luxury consumption. In this perspective, the term consumption not only means a relationship of exchange, but also a system of communicating power and lifestyles, where young consumers are fundamental agents in the promotion of luxury products and services that fascinate and awaken desires. Therefore, the aim of the present research was to identify the dimensions that motivate the consumers′ attitudes in relation to the acquisition of luxury products. To verify the proposed objective, a quantitative exploratory research was carried out by means of a survey with a sample of 304 respondents collected through a direct approach in Sao Paulo, Brazil. In the process of data processing, the Structural Equations Modeling with the Partial Least Square (PLS) method was used for it. As a result, it was possible to observe that the attitudes are oriented by aspects related to quality and desire, generating, thus, the consumption motivation that was formed by the pleasure of the purchase, by the happiness provided by the product and by the social influence.
Grammar Efficacy and Grammar Performance: An Exploratory Study on Arabic Learners
Authors: Mustapha Nik Hanan , Mustapha Nik Farhan
Published: August 2017

Previous research has clearly documented that self-efficacy in language learning positively affects students′ performance in acquiring language skills. While much research has studied grammar efficacy indirectly as part of writing efficacy, none of these focuses on Arabic language learning. Considering the impact of self-efficacy on language learning, as well as the important role of grammar in Arabic learning, this study examines the relationship between grammar efficacy and grammar performance among students learning Arabic as a foreign language in Malaysian public universities. Specifically, it intends to determine the relationship between grammar efficacy and grammar performance among Arabic learners on three aspects: Correction of grammar errors, vocalization of words, and construction of sentences. Using a newly-developed questionnaire, 140 students majoring in Arabic language from a public university in Malaysia participated in the study. The questionnaire covers three important aspects in Arabic grammar learning: Correction of grammar errors, vocalization of words, and construction of sentences. This study showed a moderate correlation between grammar efficacy and grammar performance. Efficacy of sentence construction appeared to correlate the highest among the three aspects. Teachers′ awareness on the importance of heightening students perceived confidence in accomplishing grammar tasks will eventually promote better learning among students.
Celebrating nine years together
Authors: Martinico Giuseppe
Published: August 2017

Perspectives on Federalism starts off its ninth year with this issue which gathers, as usual, a series of multi-disciplinary pieces. Almost two years have passed since we started our collaboration with De Gruyter, and our journal has since then enjoyed continued growth and has been acquiring international visibility. 2017 is going to be rich in surprises for our readers, with a wealth of interesting projects and special issues which will increase the already high standard of the journal. 2016 was also a very challenging year for scholars interested in federalism; the start of the Trump Presidency and the results of the referendum on Brexit held on 23 June 2016 are just two examples.
RESEARCHGATE PROJECTS: UNREGULATED ACADEMIC SOCIAL MEDIA
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime
Published: August 2017

ResearchGate (RG) is one of the most popular academic social media platforms currently available to scientists. Allowing scientists, researchers and academics (SRAs) to network through the creation of a free account. RG provides a virtually unlimited ability for SRAs to share research, contact each other through an integrated platform and share ideas. In recent times, projects have been increasing in scope and visibility, fortifying the RG network status. This paper examines some of the project-related features at RG and points out, within a wider examination of RG and other SRA-oriented academic social media platforms, the existing benefits and risks. The results of this work will allow SRAs to manage and invest their time in a better way
Ján Borodáč and His First Steps in Life and Theatre
Authors: Mišovic Karol
Published: August 2017

This paper presents little-known historical contexts of the life and production of the first Slovak professional director Ján Borodáč (1892-1964). It follows his private life, first encounters with theatre and especially his two-year studies in Prague. Its ambition is to offer several hypotheses which are supposed to elucidate the basic issues of Borodáč’s later production. It was namely during his youth and first encounters with practical theatre life that Borodáč’s views of theatre, which influenced Slovak professional theatre until the 1960s, were formed.
Ján Jamnický’s Ten Days with Soviet Theatre
Authors: Lindovská Nadežda
Published: August 2017

Art was perceived in the Soviet Union as a part of ideology and propaganda aimed not only at the domestic environment but also at foreign countries. State cultural policy was presented through a series of magnificent meetings and shows, to which also participants from abroad were invited. In the 1930s Moscow was the venue of several theatre festivals, which were attended by Czechoslovak theatre makers. In 1936 it was also attended by Ján Jamnický, the novice theatre director of the Slovak National Theatre in Bratislava. The Slovak theatre maker saw a lot of inspiring productions and experienced the initial period of a campaign aimed at suppressing the freedom of artistic expression. He became a witness to the twilight of Russian theatre avant-garde. The present paper describes the theatre experiences of Ján Jamnický in the Soviet Union and their impact on his life, production and style of direction. It points to a series of overlooked facts which are necessary for a complete understanding of the historical and artistic context of Soviet theatre and Jamnický’s journey.
From a Single Presentation of Poetry Up to Its Stylized Stage Image in the Form of Theatre Performance
Authors: Podmaková Ú Dagmar
Published: August 2017

In the 1940s the Drama Company of the Slovak National Theatre introduced four poetry productions, which demonstrated the stage potential of the symbiosis of verse and a music-accompanied recitation in an original stage design solution. The single presentation of poetry of Poézia revolúcie a boja [The Poetry of Revolution and Fight, 1945] directed by Ján Jamnický and Pásmo poézie Janka Jesenského [The Show of Poetry by Janko Jesenský, 1946] directed by Jozef Budský were the first independent attempts at staging selected poetry. Besides recitation, they were dominated by the visual sign, powerful music sometimes accompanied by the singing of individuals and a voice band, and distinctive lighting design. Botto’s Smrť Jánošíkova [The Death of Jánošík] and Sládkovič’s Marína (both in 1948) directed by Jozef Budský displayed all features of synthetic theatre, combining recitation, voice band singing, scenic and visual solutions, metaphor, originally composed music inspired by the folk song, dance, film screening, and meaningful lighting. Jozef Budský indirectly built on Czech theatre, particularly on E. F. Burian. Both masterpieces by the authors of Štúr’s generation (Ján Botto, Andrej Sládkovič) aroused the interest of the expert public and the audience. It triggered arguments about excessive directorial intervention and insufficient ideological character, especially in the theatre form of Marína.
The Australopithecines – An Extinct Group of Human Ancestors: My Scientific Interest in South Africa
Authors: Kaszycka Katarzyna A.
Published: August 2017

I introduce the subject of my research interest in South Africa - the australopithecines - a group of bipedal, small-brained and large-toothed creatures from the Plio-Pleistocene, from which the human genus arose. I then briefly discuss various topics of my research, concerning: (1) Taxonomic status and morphological description of the extinct human relative from the Kromdraai site (Australopithecus robustus); (2) Graphic reconstruction of the partial skull from Kromdraai - specimen numbered TM 1517; (3) Assessment of size sexual dimorphism of the South African australopithecines (Australopithecus robustus and Australopithecus africanus), which, in terms of facial features, was pronounced - being almost gorilla-sized; (4) Social behavior of a fossil hominid species from around 2 million years ago, which, in terms of the social structure, was most likely a multimale-multifemale one; and (5) An event from the history of paleoanthropology, concerning the content of the 1924/25 photographs of the Taung Child (Australopithecus africanus) - the first australopithecine skull discovered.
Africa and Its People in the Polish Media
Authors: Średziński Paweł
Published: August 2017

The African continent is treated by the Polish media marginally and usually seen through the lens of four domains of stereotypical perceptions that are associated with difficult life conditions, threats and dangers, beautiful and wild nature, as well as original and diverse cultures. Monitoring of the Polish media has become very important in this situation. That is why the results of first media monitoring report were published in 2011 by ‘Africa Another Way’ Foundation. Five years later the monitoring was repeated. It is hard to resist the impression that Africa is still viewed as this poor, underdeveloped and dangerous continent. And the way it is presented translates into the way individuals of African descent are perceived.
Identification of trans Protein QTL for Secreted Airway Mucins in Mice and a Causal Role for Bpifb1
Authors: Donoghue Lauren J , Livraghi-Butrico Alessandra , McFadden Kathryn M , Thomas Joseph M , Chen Gang , Grubb Barbara R , O’Neal Wanda K , Boucher Richard C , Kelada Samir N P
Published: August 2017

Mucus hyper-secretion is a hallmark feature of asthma and other muco-obstructive airway diseases. The mucin proteins MUC5AC and MUC5B are the major glycoprotein components of mucus and have critical roles in airway defense. Despite the biomedical importance of these two proteins, the loci that regulate them in the context of natural genetic variation have not been studied. To identify genes that underlie variation in airway mucin levels, we performed genetic analyses in founder strains and incipient lines of the Collaborative Cross (CC) in a house dust mite mouse model of asthma. CC founder strains exhibited significant differences in MUC5AC and MUC5B, providing evidence of heritability. Analysis of gene and protein expression of Muc5ac and Muc5b in incipient CC lines (n = 154) suggested that post-transcriptional events were important regulators of mucin protein content in the airways. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping identified distinct, trans protein QTL for MUC5AC (chromosome 13) and MUC5B (chromosome 2). These two QTL explained 18 and 20% of phenotypic variance, respectively. Examination of the MUC5B QTL allele effects and subsequent phylogenetic analysis allowed us to narrow the MUC5B QTL and identify Bpifb1 as a candidate gene. Bpifb1 mRNA and protein expression were upregulated in parallel to MUC5B after allergen challenge, and Bpifb1 knockout mice exhibited higher MUC5B expression. Thus, BPIFB1 is a novel regulator of MUC5B.
Carpal tunnel syndrome among laboratory technicians in relation to personal and ergonomic factors at work
Authors: El-Helaly Mohamed , Balkhy Hanan H , Vallenius Laura
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Work-related carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has been reported in different occupations, including laboratory technicians, so this study was carried out to determine the prevalence and the associated personal and ergonomic factors for CTS among laboratory technicians.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 279 laboratory technicians at King Fahd Hospital, Saudi Arabia, who filled in a selfadministered questionnaire, including questions regarding their demographic criteria, occupational history, job tasks, workplace tools, ergonomic factors at work, and symptoms suggestive of CTS. Physical examinations and electrodiagnostic studies were carried out for those who had symptoms suggestive of CTS to confirm the diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed for both personal and physical factors in association with confirmed CTS among laboratory technicians.

Results

The prevalence of CTS among the laboratory technicians was 9.7% (27/279). The following were the statistically significant risk factors for CTS among them: gender (all cases of CTS were female, P=0.00), arm/hand exertion (OR: 7.96; 95% CI: 1.84-34.33), pipetting (OR: 7.27; 95% CI: 3.15-16.78), repetitive tasks (OR: 4.60; 95% CI: 1.39-15.70), using unadjustable chairs or desks (OR: 3.35; 95% CI: 1.23-9.15), and working with a biosafety cabinet (OR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.11-5.59). CTS cases had significant longer work duration (17.9 ± 5.6 years) than CTS non-case (11.5 ± 7.4 yeas) with low OR (1.108).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates some personal and ergonomic factors associated with CTS among the laboratory technicians, including female gender, arm/hand exertion, pipetting, repetitive tasks, working with a biosafety cabinet, and an unadjusted workstation.
Extracción de un proyectil de arma de fuego de la cadera. Luxación controlada anterior Reporte de dos casos.
Authors: Bidolegui Fernando Manuel , Calvo Ximena , Pereira Sebastián Pablo , Vindver Gabriel
Published: August 2017

El aumento de la prevalencia de las heridas por arma de fuego, hace que sea cada vez más frecuente observar paciente con fragmentos de proyectiles retenidos en el cuerpo.

En la mayoría de los casos se consideran inertes para el paciente, sin embargo se convierte en una indicación quirúrgica extraerlos cuando estos se encuentra alojados de forma intraarticular. De esta forma se busca evitar el daño provocado por la sinovitis reactiva, la lesión condral y la posible progresión a una artrosis postraumática.

El objetivo de nuestro trabajo es presentar dos casos en los cuales los fragmentos de proyectiles se encontraban a nivel de la articulación coxofemoral, uno impactado sobre la cabeza femoral y en el segundo caso alojado en el fondo acetabular. 

Se realizo en ambos casos un abordaje lateral de Heardinge asociado a una luxación controlada anterior descripta por Ganz, para llevar a cabo la extracción de los mismos, de esta forma se logra una visualización completa de la cabeza femoral y un acceso al acetábulo, resguardando al máximo la perfusión vascular. Mediante un seguimiento clínico de ambos casos se evaluaron los resultados de dicha técnica. 
Síndrome de embolia grasa tras fractura abierta de calcáneo por arma de fuego
Authors: González Murillo Manuel , Gómez Rice Alejandro Rafael , Rubio Torres Juan Antonio , De Cabo Tejerina Gonzalo
Published: August 2017

El síndrome de embolia grasa es una complicación asociada usualmente a fracturas de huesos largos, fracturas de pelvis o procedimientos ortopédicos. Presentamos el caso inusual de un paciente de 24 años con diagnóstico de síndrome de embolia grasa tras presentar fractura abierta de calcáneo por arma de fuego de alta energía.
Executive Function and Academic Outcomes in Children Who Were Extremely Preterm
Authors: Costa Danielle S. , Miranda Débora M. , Burnett Alice C. , Doyle Lex W. , Cheong Jeanie L.Y. , Anderson Peter J. ,   on behalf of the Victorian Infant Collaborative Study Group
Published: August 2017

OBJECTIVES:

Cognitive and behavioral impairments of children born extremely preterm (EP) (<28 weeks’ gestation) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) (<1000 g) may change with age. We assessed the individual stability of behavioral executive function (EF) from 8 to 18 years of age in children born EP or ELBW and their academic outcomes.

METHODS:

Participants comprised 180 children born EP or ELBW from a large geographic cohort. We investigated the frequency of 4 developmental groups (persistent, remitting, late-onset, and typical development) on the basis of dichotomized scores (typical versus elevated) at ages 8 and 18 years in 2 indices (the Behavioral Regulation Index [BRI] and the Metacognition Index [MCI]) of the parental form of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function. Adolescent academic outcomes were measured by using the word reading, spelling, and math computation subtests of the Wide Range Achievement Test, Fourth Edition.

RESULTS:

Most participants had a typical EF (BRI 61%, MCI 53%), followed by persistent (BRI 15%, MCI 16%), late-onset (BRI 12%, MCI 19%), or remitting (BRI 12%, MCI 13%) executive difficulties. Groups with executive impairments at age 18 years (persistent and late onset) had poorer academic outcomes than the typical and remitting groups. Shifting impairment categories between 8 and 18 years old was relevant to later academic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Most children showed stable and age-appropriate EF, although persistent and transient difficulties were observed and related to uneven academic outcomes. Studying the origins and consequences of the developmental stability of EF may contribute to the development of interventions to decrease the adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm birth.
Por um babelismo ético na educação: reflexões acerca das implicações e possibilidades de se proceder à ética coconstitutiva dos modos de se fazer pesquisa
Authors: Dos Santos Luís Henrique Sacchi
Published: August 2017

O texto apresenta alguns dos caminhos que precederam a publicação da Resolução 510/16 do Conselho Nacional de Saúde, situa a recorrente cisão entre as matrizes de conhecimento das Ciências Humanas e Sociais (CHS) e das Ciências de origem “Bio”, especialmente no que tange à centralidade da bioética como “modelo” de ética para as CHS, bem como problematiza a ética regulamentadora (baseada nas Resoluções 466/12 e 510/16) em relação às éticas “intrínsecas” de cada campo de pesquisa. A partir disso, lança algumas perguntas que visam a constituir um caminho ético-metodológico e político em direção a uma ética coconstitutiva dos modos de se fazer pesquisa. Tece também algumas críticas ao modelo ético universalizante, no qual a ética passa também a ser uma commodity, ou mais um produto a ser consumido no atual mercado da ciência e da produção de biovalor.
A ética na pesquisa em educação: panorama e desafios pós-Resolução CNS nº 510/2016
Authors: Mainardes Jefferson
Published: August 2017

O artigo apresenta um panorama da ética em pesquisa na área de educação e os principais desafios após a aprovação da Resolução CNS nº 510/2016, que dispõe sobre as normas éticas aplicáveis a pesquisas de Ciências Humanas e Sociais. Argumenta-se que os atuais procedimentos e normas da revisão ética do Sistema CEP/Conep são altamente burocráticos e expressam uma visão utilitarista e limitada da ética em pesquisa. Ressalta-se, também, que essa ética necessita integrar o processo de formação de pesquisadores. E, para tal, é relevante a elaboração de um documento orientador da área de educação, com o objetivo de instrumentalizar os pesquisadores em relação a essa questão e aos dilemas envolvidos no atual sistema de revisão ética (Sistema CEP/Conep). O artigo revela que a criação desse sistema fora da área de saúde continua na pauta das associações científicas de Ciências Humanas e Sociais.