bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Braided tape is equivalent to modified Mason-Allen multi-strand #2 suture in subscapularis muscle repair: results of a biomechanical study
Authors: Léger-St-Jean Benjamin , Ménard Jérémie , Hinse Stéphanie , Balg Frédéric , Rouleau Dominique M
Published: November 2016

Background

To help determine the optimal fixation method for subscapularis tendon repair in arthroplasty, the present study compares single-passage transosseous tape (BT) and modified Mason-Allen #2 suture (MA).

Methods

Eighteen human cadaveric shoulders were randomized to two repair constructs after arthroplasty preparation. Both techniques included two transosseous passages through the bicipital groove and then through the tendon at the level of the anatomical neck. Construct was tested using a traction machine, measuring cyclic loading and ultimate load to failure.

Results

The mean age of our specimens was 71 years. No significant difference was observed between the repair techniques in both mean ultimate load and cyclic loading. The mean (SD) ultimate load (UL) for BT was 293 (84) N and 342 (117) N for MA, which was not statistically significant ( p = 0.374). The majority of repairs failed in the tendon. Bone cut-out was observed with the MA but not for the BT repair. No correlation was found between bone density and UL for BT ( r = −0.09) but there was strong correlation for MA ( r = 0.63).

Conclusions

The MA repair appears to be more dependant on bone mineral density for ultimate load, indicating that braided-tape might be better suited for osteoporotic patients to avoid bone cut-out.
Progress with palbociclib in breast cancer: latest evidence and clinical considerations
Authors: Rocca Andrea , Schirone Alessio , Maltoni Roberta , Bravaccini Sara , Cecconetto Lorenzo , Farolfi Alberto , Bronte Giuseppe , Andreis Daniele
Published: November 2016

Deregulation of the cell cycle is a hallmark of cancer, and research on cell cycle control has allowed identification of potential targets for anticancer treatment. Palbociclib is a selective inhibitor of the cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4/6), which are involved, with their coregulatory partners cyclin D, in the G1-S transition. Inhibition of this step halts cell cycle progression in cells in which the involved pathway, including the retinoblastoma protein (Rb) and the E2F family of transcription factors, is functioning, although having been deregulated. Among breast cancers, those with functioning cyclin D-CDK4/6-Rb-E2F are mainly hormone-receptor (HR) positive, with some HER2-positive and rare triple-negative cases. Deregulation results from genetic or otherwise occurring hyperactivation of molecules subtending cell cycle progression, or inactivation of cell cycle inhibitors. Based on results of randomized clinical trials, palbociclib was granted accelerated approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in combination with letrozole as initial endocrine-based therapy for metastatic disease in postmenopausal women with HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, and was approved for use in combination with fulvestrant in women with HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer with disease progression following endocrine therapy. This review provides an update of the available knowledge on the cell cycle and its regulation, on the alterations in cyclin D-CDK4/6-Rb-E2F axis in breast cancer and their roles in endocrine resistance, on the preclinical activity of CDK4/6 inhibitors in breast cancer, both as monotherapy and as partners of combinatorial synergic treatments, and on the clinical development of palbociclib in breast cancer.
Accurate Carbohydrate Counting Is an Important Determinant of Postprandial Glycemia in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes on Insulin Pump Therapy
Authors: Deeb Asma , Al Hajeri Ahlam , Alhmoudi Iman , Nagelkerke Nico
Published: November 2016

Background:

Carbohydrate (CHO) counting is a key nutritional intervention utilized in the management of diabetes to optimize postprandial glycemia. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of accuracy of CHO counting on the postprandial glucose in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump therapy.

Methods:

Children/adolescents with type 1 diabetes who were on insulin pump therapy for a minimum of 6 months are enrolled in the study. Patients were instructed to record details of meals consumed, estimated CHO count per meal, and 2-hour postprandial glucose readings over 3-5 days. Meals’ CHO contents were recounted by an experienced clinical dietician, and those within 20% of the dietician’s counting were considered accurate.

Results:

A total of 30 patients (21 females) were enrolled. Age range (median) was 8-18 (SD 13) years. Data of 247 meals were analyzed. A total of 165 (67%) meals’ CHO contents were accurately counted. Of those, 90 meals (55%) had in-target postprandial glucose ( P < .000). There was an inverse relationship between inaccurate CHO estimates and postprandial glucose. Of the 63 underestimated meals, 55 had above-target glucose, while 12 of the 19 overestimated meals were followed by low glucose. There was no association between accuracy and meal size (Spearman’s rho = .019).

Conclusion:

Accuracy of CHO counting is an important determining factor of postprandial glycemia. However, other factors should be considered when advising on prandial insulin calculation. Underestimation and overestimation of CHO result in postprandial hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, respectively. Accuracy does not correlate with meal size.
Predictors of Time to Union After Operative Fixation of Closed Ankle Fractures
Authors: Matson Andrew P. , Hamid Kamran S. , Adams Samuel B.
Published: November 2016

Background. Ankle fractures are common and represent a significant burden to society. We aim to report the rate of union as determined by clinical and radiographic data, and to identify factors that predict time to union. Methods. A cohort of 112 consecutive patients with isolated, closed, operative malleolar ankle fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation was retrospectively reviewed for time to clinical union. Clinical union was defined based on radiographic and clinical parameters, and delayed union was defined by time to union >12 weeks. Injury characteristics, patient factors and treatment variables were recorded, and statistical techniques employed included the Chi-square test, the Student’s T-test, and multivariate linear regression modeling. Results. Forty-two (37.5%) of patients who achieved union did so in less than 12 weeks, and 69 (61.6%) of these patients demonstrated delayed union at a mean of 16.7 weeks (range, 12.1-26.7 weeks), and the remaining patient required revision surgery. Factors associated with higher rates of delayed union or increased time to union included tobacco use, bimalleolar fixation, and high energy mechanism (all p<0.05). In regression analysis, statistically significant negative predictors of time to union were BMI, dislocation of the tibiotalar joint, external fixation for initial stabilization and delay of definitive management (all p<0.05). Conclusion. Patient characteristics, injury factors and treatment variables are predictive of time to union following open reduction and internal fixation of closed ankle fractures. These findings should assist with patient counseling, and help guide the provider when considering adjunctive therapies that promote bone healing.

Levels of Evidence: Prognostic, Level IV: Case series
Biomechanical Analysis of Weighted-Ball Exercises for Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Fleisig Glenn S. , Diffendaffer Alek Z. , Aune Kyle T. , Ivey Brett , Laughlin Walter A.
Published: November 2016

Background:

Weighted-ball throwing programs are commonly used in training baseball pitchers to increase ball velocity. The purpose of this study was to compare kinematics and kinetics among weighted-ball exercises with values from standard pitching (ie, pitching standard 5-oz baseballs from a mound).

Hypothesis:

Ball and arm velocities would be greater with lighter balls and joint kinetics would be greater with heavier balls.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Twenty-five high school and collegiate baseball pitchers experienced with weighted-ball throwing were tested with an automated motion capture system. Each participant performed 3 trials of 10 different exercises: pitching 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-oz baseballs from a mound; flat-ground crow hop throws with 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-oz baseballs; and flat-ground hold exercises with 14- and 32-oz balls. Twenty-six biomechanical parameters were computed for each trial. Data among the 10 exercises were compared with repeated measures analysis of variance and post hoc paired t tests against the standard pitching data.

Results:

Ball velocity increased as ball mass decreased. There were no differences in arm and trunk velocities between throwing a standard baseball and an underweight baseball (4 oz), while arm and trunk velocities steadily decreased as ball weight increased from 5 to 32 oz. Compared with values pitching from a mound, velocities of the pelvis, shoulder, and ball were increased for flat-ground throws. In general, as ball mass increased arm torques and forces decreased; the exception was elbow flexion torque, which was significantly greater for the flat-ground holds. There were significant differences in body positions when pitching on the mound, flat-ground throws, and holds.

Conclusions:

While ball velocity was greatest throwing underweight baseballs, results from the study did not support the rest of the hypothesis. Kinematics and kinetics were similar between underweight and standard baseballs, while overweight balls correlated with decreased arm forces, torques, and velocities. Increased ball velocity and joint velocities were produced with crow hop throws, likely because of running forward while throwing.

Clinical Relevance:

As pitching slightly underweight and overweight baseballs produces variations in kinematics without increased arm kinetics, these exercises seem reasonable for training pitchers. As flat-ground throwing produces increased shoulder internal rotation velocity and elbow varus torque, these exercises may be beneficial but may also be stressful and risky. Flat-ground holds with heavy balls should not be viewed as enhancing pitching biomechanics, but rather as hybrid exercises between throwing and resistance training.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of pancreatic lesions with 22 versus 25 Gauge needles: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Facciorusso Antonio , Stasi Elisa , Di Maso Marianna , Serviddio Gaetano , Ali Hussein Mohammed Salah , Muscatiello Nicola
Published: November 2016

Background

Robust data in favour of a clear superiority of 22 versus 25 Gauge needles for endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration are still lacking.

Objective

We aimed to compare the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and safety of these two needles for endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of solid pancreatic lesions.

Methods

A computerized bibliographic search was restricted to randomized controlled trials only. Pooled effects were calculated using a random‐effects model and expressed in terms of risk ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Results

We analysed seven trials with 689 patients and 732 lesions (295 sampled with 22 Gauge needle, 309 with 25 Gauge needle, and 128 with both needles). A non‐significant superiority of 25 Gauge in terms of pooled sensitivity (risk ratio: 0.93, 0.91–0.95 versus 0.89, 0.85–0.94 of 22 Gauge needle; p  = 0.13) and no difference in terms of specificity (1.00, 0.98–1.00 in both groups; p  = 0.85) were observed. Sample adequacy was similar between the two devices (risk ratio: 1.03, 0.99–1.06; p  = 0.15). Very few adverse events were observed and did not impact on patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis reveals non‐superiority of 25 Gauge over 22 Gauge; hence no definitive recommendations over the use of one particular device can be made.
The effects of district magnitude and social diversity on party system fragmentation in majoritarian systems
Authors: Raymond Christopher D
Published: November 2016

Cross-national models of party system fragmentation hold that social diversity and district magnitude interact: higher levels of district magnitude allow for greater expression of social diversity that leads to higher levels of party system fragmentation. Most models, however, ignore differences between majoritarian and proportional electoral rules, which may significantly alter the impact of district magnitude, as well as the way in which district magnitude impacts the translation of social cleavages into party system fragmentation. Examining the case of Singapore suggests majoritarian multimember districts limit party system fragmentation, particularly by reducing the degree to which ethnic and religious diversity are translated into political parties. Applying these insights to a standard cross-national model of party system fragmentation, the results suggest that majoritarian multimember districts produce lower levels of party system fragmentation than proportional multimember districts.
Admission Criteria for MBA Programs
Authors: Dakduk Silvana , Malavé José , Torres Carmen Cecilia , Montesinos Hugo , Michelena Laura
Published: November 2016

This paper reports a review of studies on admission criteria for MBA programs. The method consisted in a literary review based on a systematic search in international databases (Emerald, ABI/INFORM Global, ProQuest Education Journals, ProQuest European Business, ProQuest Science Journal, ProQuest Research Library, ProQuest Psychology Journals, ProQuest Social Science Journals and Business Source Complete) of studies published from January 1990 to December 2013, which explore the academic performance of students or graduates of MBA programs. A quantitative review was performed. Results show that most researchers studied relations between GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and UGPA (Undergraduate Grade Point Average) as predictors of GGPA (Graduate Grade Point Average). On the other hand, work experience and personal traits (such as personality, motivation, learning strategies, self-efficacy beliefs and achievement expectations) and their relation with GGPA had been less studied, and results are not consistent enough to consider them valid predictors of student performance at this time.
Racialism and Representation in the Rainbow Nation
Authors: Palmer Fileve T.
Published: November 2016

Despite a commitment to non-racialism in the South African Constitution and anthropology’s steadfast position that race is a social construction, race is still a highly valued ideology with real-life implications for citizens. In South Africa, racialism particularly affects heterogeneous, multigenerational, multiethnic creole people known as “Coloureds.” The larger category of Coloured is often essentialized based on its intermediary status between Black and White and its relationship to South Africa’s “mother city” (Cape Town, where the majority of Coloured people live). Through research on Coloured identity in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, I show how the nuances of personal and collective histories, spatial constraints, and education affect the identities of youth and elders differently from their Cape counterparts. By incorporating a photo-voice methodology, which I called Photo Ethnography Project (PEP), participants produced their own visual materials and challenged essentialized versions of themselves (specifically) and South Africa (in general). Through three public displays of photography and narratives, youth in three communities answered the question of what it means to be Coloured in today’s rainbow nation.
Psychological Spacetime
Authors: Conway Lucian Gideon , Repke Meredith A. , Houck Shannon C.
Published: November 2016

It has been an accepted scientific fact in physics for almost 100 years that time speeds up and slows down for an observer based on factors—such as motion and gravity—that affect space. Yet this fact, drawn from the theory of relativity, has not been widely integrated into the study of the psychology of time. The present article helps to fill in this gap between physics and psychology by reviewing evidence concerning what a psychological spacetime processor—one that accounted for the theory of relativity’s empirically validated predictions of the compensatory relationship between time and space—would look like. This model of the spacetime processor suggests that humans should have a psychological mechanism for slowing time down as motion speeds up, a prediction that already has widespread research support. We also discuss several novel hypotheses directly suggested by the spacetime model and a set of related speculations that emerge when considering spacetime (some of which have already received empirical support). Finally, we compare and contrast three very different potential reasons why we might have developed a spacetime processor in the first place. We conclude that the spacetime model shows promise for organizing existing data on time perception and generating novel hypotheses for researchers to pursue. Considering how humans might process spacetime helps reduce the existing gap between our understanding of physics and our understanding of human psychology.
Experiences of Students in Recovery on a Rural College Campus
Authors: Scott Alison , Anderson Ashton , Harper Kristen , Alfonso Moya L.
Published: November 2016

A growing number of college (postsecondary) students are in recovery from addiction to drugs or alcohol. In this article, we discuss the experiences of students returning to a university campus after long-term addiction treatment. We also explore the role of a Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP) in providing support, and in helping the students develop post-addiction identities that will sustain them. To do so, we draw on Goffman’s ideas related to stigma, as well as conceptualizations of identity reconstruction as a practiced, lived experience. Students interviewed faced a double bind; they sought to escape the stigmatized identity of “addict,” but could not identify as typical students because of their abstinence from alcohol and drugs. The CRP helped them manage the transition to student life, provided a safe haven on campus, and provided an alternate and positive identity: a student in recovery.
A Comparative Study of Current and Potential Users of Mobile Payment Services
Authors: Phonthanukitithaworn Chanchai , Sellitto Carmine , Fong Michelle W. L.
Published: November 2016

Previous studies of mobile payment (m-payment) services have primarily focused on a single group of adopters. This study identifies the factors that influence an individual’s intention to use m-payment services and compares groups of current users (adopters) with potential users (non-adopters). A research model that reflects the behavioral intention to use m-payment services is developed and empirically tested using structural equation modeling on a data set consisting of 529 potential users and 256 current users of m-payment services in Thailand. The results show that the factors that influence current users’ intentions to use m-payment services are compatibility, subjective norms, perceived trust, and perceived cost. Subjective norms, compatibility, ease of use, and perceived risk influenced potential users’ intentions to use m-payment. Subjective norms and perceived risk had a stronger influence on potential users, while perceived cost had a stronger influence on current users, in terms of their intentions to use m-payment services. Discussions, limitations, and recommendations for future research are addressed.
Public Awareness of the Scientific Consensus on Climate
Authors: Hamilton Lawrence C.
Published: November 2016

Questions about climate change elicit some of the widest political divisions of any items on recent U.S. surveys. Severe polarization affects even basic questions about the reality of anthropogenic climate change (ACC), or whether most scientists agree that humans are changing the Earth’s climate. Statements about scientific consensus have been contentious among social scientists, with some arguing for consensus awareness as a “gateway cognition” that leads to greater public acceptance of ACC, but others characterizing consensus messaging (deliberate communication about the level of scientific agreement) as a counterproductive tactic that exacerbates polarization. A series of statewide surveys, with nationwide benchmarks, repeated questions about the reality of ACC and scientific consensus many times over 2010 to 2016. These data permit tests for change in beliefs and polarization. ACC and consensus beliefs have similar trends and individual background predictors. Both rose gradually by about 10 points over 2010 to 2016, showing no abrupt shifts that might correspond to events such as scientific reports, leadership statements, or weather. Growing awareness of the scientific consensus, whether from deliberate messaging or the cumulative impact of many studies and publicly engaged scientists, provides the most plausible explanation for this rise in both series. In state-level data, the gap between liberal and conservative views on the reality of ACC did not widen over this period, whereas the liberal–conservative gap regarding existence of a scientific consensus narrowed.
Fatigue, Work Schedules, and Perceived Performance in Bedside Care Nurses
Authors: Sagherian Knar , Clinton Michael E. , Abu-Saad Huijer Huda , Geiger-Brown Jeanne
Published: November 2016

Hospital nurses are expected to maintain optimal work performance; yet, fatigue can threaten safe practice and result in unfavorable patient outcomes. This descriptive cross-sectional study explored the association between fatigue, work schedules, and perceived work performance among nurses. The study sample included 77 bedside nurses who were mostly female, single, and between 20 and 29 years of age. The majority worked 8-hour shifts and overtime. Nurses who worked during off days reported significantly higher chronic fatigue compared with those nurses who took time off. Nurses who reported feeling refreshed after sleep had significantly less chronic and acute fatigue and more intershift recovery. Nurses with acute and chronic fatigue perceived poorer physical performance. Also, nurses who reported chronic fatigue perceived they were less alert and less able to concentrate when providing patient care. Less effective communication was also associated with acute and chronic fatigue. In conclusion, fatigue has safety implications for nurses’ practice that should be monitored by nursing management.
Lessons Learned: Career Challenges in Training the Next Generation of Interdisciplinary Health Scientists
Authors: Gonzalez Jennifer M. Reingle
Published: November 2016

Interdisciplinary science, defined by the National Academies as “a mode of research by teams of individuals that integrates information, data, techniques, tools, perspectives, concepts, and/or theories from two or more disciplines . . . to advance fundamental understanding or to solve problems whose solutions are beyond the scope of a single discipline,” has come to the forefront as necessary to solve the complex social problems, such as obesity, violence, and addiction, facing our society today. Interdisciplinary training and research is a novel idea in theory, although execution is inconsistent. Because there are no structured curricula, professional training and development occur differently for every emerging scientist. My goal in writing this article is to continue the dialogue to improve the consistency and quality of interdisciplinary research and training for future cohorts of health scientists. The purpose of this article is to describe challenges I encountered, including short- and long-term practical approaches for career development from the perspective of an early career, interdisciplinary researcher.
Designing the Widget
Authors: Delise Lisa A. , Mello Abby L.
Published: November 2016

The Widget design task is an in-class, experiential exercise that affords students the opportunity to develop interpersonal skills in group negotiation. Students engage in new product design in committees of two dyads where one dyad represents Consumer Research and the other represents Strategic Management. Task information creates different perspectives and requires committees to negotiate decisions about 10 Widget attributes. The exercise is applicable to courses focusing on negotiation, work teams, and myriad other organizational behavior topics (e.g., conflict, power, communication) where interactive activities are desirable to help students develop negotiation soft skills. The exercise is adaptable to work within a 75- or 50-minute class period, and can be enhanced using measures, inventories, or assignments completed outside of class time.
Antibiotics impair murine hematopoiesis by depleting the intestinal microbiota
Authors: Josefsdottir Kamilla S. , Baldridge Megan T. , Kadmon Claudine S. , King Katherine Y.
Published: November 2016

Key Points

Antibiotics cause multilineage alterations in murine hematopoiesis, with marked suppression of multipotent progenitors. Suppression of bone marrow populations results from depletion of intestinal microbiota.
B-cell receptor–driven MALT1 activity regulates MYC signaling in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Dai Beiying , Grau Michael , Juilland Mélanie , Klener Pavel , Höring Elisabeth , Molinsky Jan , Schimmack Gisela , Aukema Sietse M. , Hoster Eva , Vogt Niklas , Staiger Annette M. , Erdmann Tabea , Xu Wendan , Erdmann Kristian , Dzyuba Nicole , Madle Hannelore , Berdel Wolfgang E. , Trneny Marek , Dreyling Martin , Jöhrens Korinna , Lenz Peter , Rosenwald Andreas , Siebert Reiner , Tzankov Alexandar , Klapper Wolfram , Anagnostopoulos Ioannis , Krappmann Daniel , Ott German , Thome Margot , Lenz Georg
Published: November 2016

Key Points

MALT1 protease activity stabilizes MYC. The MALT1-MYC network might represent a therapeutic target for MCL patients.
Nitric oxide has contrasting age-dependent effects on the functionality of murine hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Jalnapurkar Sapana , Singh Shweta , Devi Moirangthem Ranjita , Limaye Lalita , Kale Vaijayanti
Published: November 2016

Background

The success of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is dependent on the quality of the donor HSCs. Some sources of HSCs display reduced engraftment efficiency either because of inadequate number (e.g., fetal liver and cord blood), or age-related dysfunction (e.g. in older individuals). Therefore, use of pharmacological compounds to improve functionality of HSCs is a forefront research area in hematology.

Methods

Lineage negative (Lin−) cells isolated from murine bone marrow or sort-purified Lin−Sca-1+c-Kit+CD34− (LSK-CD34−) were treated with a nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The cells were subjected to various phenotypic and functional assays.

Results

We found that SNP treatment of Lin− cells leads to an increase in the numbers of LSK-CD34+ cells in them. Using sort-purified LSK CD34− HSCs, we show that this is related to acquisition of CD34 expression by LSK-CD34− cells, rather than proliferation of LSK-CD34+ cells. Most importantly, this upregulated expression of CD34 had age-dependent contrasting effects on HSC functionality. Increased CD34 expression significantly improved the engraftment of juvenile HSCs (6–8 weeks); in sharp contrast, it reduced the engraftment of adult HSCs (10–12 weeks). The molecular mechanism behind this phenomenon involved nitric oxide (NO)-mediated differential induction of various transcription factors involved in commitment with regard to self-renewal in adult and juvenile HSCs, respectively. Preliminary experiments performed on cord blood-derived and mobilized peripheral blood-derived cells revealed that NO exerts age-dependent contrasting effects on human HSCs as well.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates novel age-dependent contrasting effects of NO on HSC functionality and suggests that HSC age may be an important parameter in screening of various compounds for their use in manipulation of HSCs.
Ground Motion Intensity Measures to Evaluate I: The Liquefaction Hazard in the Vicinity of Shallow-Founded Structures
Authors: Dashti Shideh , Karimi Zana
Published: November 2016

When evaluating the liquefaction hazard within a performance-based framework, whether using simplified procedures or advanced numerical tools, the hazard and its effects on structures need to be evaluated under a range of ground motions. Choice of an optimum intensity measure (IM) in the selection and scaling of ground motions will reduce variability in the predicted response, dependence on source characteristics, and uncertainty in the prediction of the IM. This paper presents the results of a numerical parametric study, validated against centrifuge results, to evaluate the influence of different IMs on the liquefaction hazard in the far-field and near shallow-founded structures. Pore pressure redistribution and soil-structure interaction were considered in estimating the liquefaction hazard in terms of peak excess pore pressure ratio ( r u,peak). The IMs at the base rock, far-field soil surface, and foundation with the best combination of efficiency, sufficiency, and predictability were evaluated and identified as: (1) pseudo-spectral acceleration at the site's initial fundamental period ( PSA Base[ T So]) for predicting r u,peak in the far-field; (2) peak ground acceleration, ( PGA Base); and Arias intensity ( AI Base) for predicting r u,peak under the foundation.
Xpf suppresses the mutagenic consequences of phagocytosis in Dictyostelium
Authors: Pontel Lucas B. , Langenick Judith , Rosado Ivan V. , Zhang Xiao-Yin , Traynor David , Kay Robert R. , Patel Ketan J.
Published: November 2016

As time passes, mutations accumulate in the genomes of all living organisms. These changes promote genetic diversity, but also precipitate ageing and the initiation of cancer. Food is a common source of mutagens, but little is known about how nutritional factors cause lasting genetic changes in the consuming organism. Here, we describe an unusual genetic interaction between DNA repair in the unicellular amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum and its natural bacterial food source. We found that Dictyostelium deficient in the DNA repair nuclease Xpf (xpf−) display a severe and specific growth defect when feeding on bacteria. Despite being proficient in the phagocytosis and digestion of bacteria, over time, xpf− Dictyostelium feeding on bacteria cease to grow and in many instances die. The Xpf nuclease activity is required for sustained growth using a bacterial food source. Furthermore, the ingestion of this food source leads to a striking accumulation of mutations in the genome of xpf− Dictyostelium. This work therefore establishes Dictyostelium as a model genetic system to dissect nutritional genotoxicity, providing insight into how phagocytosis can induce mutagenesis and compromise survival fitness.
An unconventional interaction between Dis1/TOG and Mal3/EB1 in fission yeast promotes the fidelity of chromosome segregation
Authors: Matsuo Yuzy , Maurer Sebastian P. , Yukawa Masashi , Zakian Silva , Singleton Martin R. , Surrey Thomas , Toda Takashi
Published: November 2016

Dynamic microtubule plus-ends interact with various intracellular target regions such as the cell cortex and the kinetochore. Two conserved families of microtubule plus-end-tracking proteins, the XMAP215, ch-TOG or CKAP5 family and the end-binding 1 (EB1, also known as MAPRE1) family, play pivotal roles in regulating microtubule dynamics. Here, we study the functional interplay between fission yeast Dis1, a member of the XMAP215/TOG family, and Mal3, an EB1 protein. Using an in vitro microscopy assay, we find that purified Dis1 autonomously tracks growing microtubule ends and is a bona fide microtubule polymerase. Mal3 recruits additional Dis1 to microtubule ends, explaining the synergistic enhancement of microtubule dynamicity by these proteins. A non-canonical binding motif in Dis1 mediates the interaction with Mal3. X-ray crystallography shows that this new motif interacts in an unconventional configuration with the conserved hydrophobic cavity formed within the Mal3 C-terminal region that typically interacts with the canonical SXIP motif. Selectively perturbing the Mal3–Dis1 interaction in living cells demonstrates that it is important for accurate chromosome segregation. Whereas, in some metazoans, the interaction between EB1 and the XMAP215/TOG family members requires an additional binding partner, fission yeast relies on a direct interaction, indicating evolutionary plasticity of this critical interaction module.
Communicating behavioral genetics: Charting the limits of the genetic interpolation effect
Authors: Morin-Chassé Alexandre
Published: November 2016

Background: Scientific research has linked genetic predispositions to complex social behaviors and orientations. Recent empirical work in science communication suggests that the dissemination of these research findings can impact on public beliefs about the influence of genetics. The genetic interpolation hypothesis posits that exposure to this type of news causes the public to update their views about the influence of genetics on human beings and to infer greater genetic causation for other social traits that are not mentioned in the news content. The main purpose of this study is to test whether the genetic interpolation effect also emerges following exposure to a soft treatment: a short summary paragraph rather than a real news article. It also tests if specifying that a particular gene has a marginal effect succeeds at moderating the genetic interpolation effect. Finally, the study tests a counter-hypothesis: instead of resulting from belief updating, the genetic interpolation effect is triggered by the simple act of thinking about genetics shortly before reporting beliefs. Methods: In total, 2080 respondents were recruited from a pre-existing online panel and were randomly split into four experimental groups: group 1) no message; group 2) a paragraph about how genes can impact on voting behavior; group 3) the same paragraph as group 2, plus an indication that the effect of a particular gene is small; group 4) a paragraph about how genetics impact on physical traits such as eye color. Subjects were then asked to evaluate the role of genetics in causing three traits: voting at election; intelligence; and natural hair style (curly or straight). Results: The analyses reveal no evidence supporting the genetic interpolation hypothesis, the moderation hypothesis or the counter-hypothesis. Conclusion: Overall, the results suggest that exposure to a paragraph describing how genes can impact on complex social behavior is not sufficient to trigger the genetic interpolation effect.
Recent advances in understanding neuropathic pain: glia, sex differences, and epigenetics
Authors: Machelska Halina , Celik Melih Ö.
Published: November 2016

Neuropathic pain results from diseases or trauma affecting the nervous system. This pain can be devastating and is poorly controlled. The pathophysiology is complex, and it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms in order to identify the relevant targets for therapeutic intervention. In this article, we focus on the recent research investigating neuro-immune communication and epigenetic processes, which gain particular attention in the context of neuropathic pain. Specifically, we analyze the role of glial cells, including microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, in the modulation of the central nervous system inflammation triggered by neuropathy. Considering epigenetics, we address DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the non-coding RNAs in the regulation of ion channels, G-protein-coupled receptors, and transmitters following neuronal damage. The goal was not only to highlight the emerging concepts but also to discuss controversies, methodological complications, and intriguing opinions.
Peripheral refraction with different designs of progressive soft contact lenses in myopes
Authors: Allinjawi Kareem , Sharanjeet-Kaur Sharanjeet-Kaur , Akhir Saadah Mohamed , Mutalib Haliza Abdul
Published: November 2016

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the changes in relative peripheral refractive error produced by two different designs of progressive soft contact lenses in myopic schoolchildren.

Methods: Twenty-seven myopic schoolchildren age between 13 to 15 years were included in this study. The measurements of central and peripheral refraction were made using a Grand-Seiko WR-5100K open-field autorefractometer without correction (baseline), and two different designs of progressive contact lenses (PCLs) (Multistage from SEED & Proclear from Cooper Vision) with an addition power of +1.50 D. Refractive power was measured at center and at eccentricities between 35º temporal to 35º nasal visual field (in 5º steps).

Results: Both PCLs showed a reduction in hyperopic defocus at periphery. However, this reduction was only significant for the Multistage PCL (p= 0.015), (Proclear PCL p= 0.830). 

Conclusion: Multistage PCLs showed greater reduction in peripheral retinal hyperopic defocus among myopic schoolchildren in comparison to Proclear PCLs.
Effectiveness of expansionary fiscal policy under conditions of state fiscal crisis
Authors: Rogalska Elżbieta
Published: November 2016

The paper provides synthetic presentation of key economic theories on the effectiveness of fiscal policy – neoclassical and keynesian view. Then the problem of the state fiscal budget crisis and its possible influence on the occurrence of ricardian equivalence. The empirical part of the paper presents several cases of significant fiscal stimulus, which proved to be totally ineffective in stimulating economic activity and several cases of fiscal adjustments that – despite the fears of politicians and economists on the negative impact on the economy in the short run – lead to a substantial increase in business activity and growth dynamics of GDP. These examples are supported by the interpretation of the possible factors that determined the nature of the various adjustments and their impact on business activity. The paper is closed with conclusions for further theoretical and empirical analysis, especially useful for fiscal policy in Middle and Eastern European countries in the time of global financial crisis.
Cultural issues in economics
Authors: Meyer Maciej
Published: November 2016

This article has been written with the purpose of attracting attention to the cultural issues, or rather lack of them, in economics. This topic has not been taken frequently into theoretical considerations due to some difficulties, although its practical implications are of great importance. The meaning of institutions which are a part of cultures has been given more coverage in the literature. The following hypothesis is proposed: culture is an important but underestimated component of the economics theory. Although present in consciousness of some classics it should be incorporated to the theory to a bigger degree. The author makes use of the present literature in order to point out the relevant relationships. The problem with the definitions of the word “culture” with respect to economics best-fitting variants is covered. Also, the relation of the problem issue with the science of economics is shown via the presence in thought of the first economists. Moreover, the relation of cultures with institutions is discussed as well as cultural dimensions. The author pays attention to the meaning of cultures in economic development, consumer behavior, international marketing, and business contacts.
The knowledge-based economy as a stage in the development of the economy
Authors: Madrak-Grochowska Małgorzata
Published: November 2016

The major objective of this article to attempt to show the model of a knowledge-based economy (KBE) as a stage in social, economic and institutional transformation, which has already been reached by highly developed economies. The research problem considered is examined against the background of the concepts A. Toffler’s waves of civilization and, J.A. Schumpeter’s waves of innovation with the use of the elements of historical and comparative analyses. The introduction outlines the context, objectives and the reasons for taking up the topic. The main part of the article presents the process of the evolution of the economy from a model of the agrarian economy, through the industrial and service-based economies to the knowledge-based economy and describes in detail the three stages of advancement of the knowledge-based economy with corresponding metrics. The last paragraph of the article presents the conclusions drawn from the analyses.
Identification of smart specialisations in Polish regions in the context of the EU's new financial perspective 2014-2020
Authors: Kogut-Jaworska Magdalena
Published: November 2016

The smart specialisation is a new EU’s concept towards the regions. It assumes upgrading of innovation and competitiveness basing  on endogenic potential, in particular, in already existing branches of economy. Smart specialisations should, by definition concentrate economic resources on chosen priorities. Having a smart specialisation will be a pre-condition for access to the UE’s funds in the new financial perspective 2014-2020. Smart specialisation need to be clearly defined and only then can they contribute into economic growth combined with proper management over public financial means. The necessary pre-condition is to understand the very concept and to recognize the mechanism of identification and implementation. The expected pre-conditions also include a proper legal framework and its smart implementation through able application of administrative tools. The objective of the paper is to introduce and characterise assumptions for smart specialisations and to indicate at the progress of implementation and the necessary conditions required in Polish regions. Moreover, the paper reviews and analyses major European and national documents exposing the question of smart specialisations. The empiric part deals with identification and assessment of progress in the implementation of the concept into Polish regions.
Public-private mix and performance of health care systems in CEE and CIS countries
Authors: Łyszczarz Błażej
Published: November 2016

The role of the public and private sector in health care systems remains one of the crucial problems of these systems' operation. The purpose of this research is to identify the relationships between the performance of health systems in CEE and CIS (Central and Eastern Europe and Commonwealth of Independent State) countries, and the mix of public-private sector in the health care of these countries. The study uses a zero unitarization method to construct three measures of health system performance in the following areas: (1) resources; (2) services; and (3) health status. The values of these measures are correlated with the share of public financing that represents the public-private mix in the health systems. The data used is from World Health Organization’s Health for All Database for 23 CEE and CIS countries and comprises the year 2010. The results show that the performance of health systems in the countries investigated is positively associated with a higher proportion of public financing. The strongest relationship links public financing with performance in the area of services production. For policy makers, these results imply that health systems in post-communist transition economies could be susceptible to a decreasing role of the state and that growing reliance on the market mechanism in health care can deteriorate the operation of these systems.
The role of the state in creating green economy
Authors: Szyja Paulina
Published: November 2016

Since the crisis of the real economy in 2008, an intense discussion about the need for changes in the economy, supported by a number of declarations on the global scale, has been developed. The analysis of the causes and effects of the economic downturn and the challenges of the future have had a huge impact on this state of affairs. As a result, some states have taken action to remedy the situation. Many of them were aimed at structural changes in production, consumption and environmentally friendly investment. At the same time, the concept of "low carbon economy" and "green economy" gained importance. The aim of this paper is to present the role of the state in the economy in terms of creating conditions for a green economy. The thesis of the publication is: implementation of structural changes related with creating a green economy requires involvement of the state.
Income tax exemption as a regional state aid in special economic zones and its impact upon development of Polish districts
Authors: Ambroziak Adam A.
Published: November 2016

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) were established to attract entrepreneurs to invest in Polish regions in order to increase their social and economic development. One of the most important incentives offered in SEZs is state aid in the form of an income tax exemption. The objective of this paper is to verify if the regional state aid granted to entrepreneurs in SEZs has had a positive impact on the social and economic development of Polish poviats. The conducted research allowed for the conclusion that regional state aid in SEZs in the form of an income tax exemption was of a relatively higher importance to the poorest regions, while its significance was much lower in better developed areas in Poland. Moreover the intensity of regional state aid granted to entrepreneurs in SEZs had a positive influence on the social and economic development of the poorest and sometimes less developed poviats in Poland, while the more developed poviats with SEZs did not record better or much better results compared to poviats without SEZs.
Institutional efficiency of local government in issuing administrative decisions, exemplified by the performance of the local government appeal board in Olsztyn
Authors: Lizińska Wiesława , Marks-Bielska Renata , Babuchowska Karolina , Wojarska Magdalena
Published: November 2016

Institutions and institutional structures play an important role in the theory and research of processes involved in economic progress. The competitive position of territorial units depends on their effective performance, especially on the efficiency of local governments. Skills, qualifications and functional abilities of local authorities gain importance. In this context, creating and stimulating the economic growth locally is essential, because it equates with building the foundation of development processes in all areas of life. Our purpose was to evaluate the institutional efficiency of local authorities manifested by administrative decisions they take. The data submitted to our analysis consisted of appeals against decisions taken by local governments. The objective was to analyze the appeals filed to local government appeal boards and how they were examined in compliance with the binding law. The time period spanned the years 2007 to 2013. The analysis covered appeals lodged to the Local Government Appeal Board in Olsztyn.
The impact of some variables on the VAT gap in the member states of the European Union company
Authors: Majerová Ingrid
Published: November 2016

One of the most serious problems of fiscal character is the issue of the tax gap. The tax gap is defined as the amount of tax liability faced by taxpayers that is not paid on time. The tax gap comes from three main areas of non-compliance with the tax law – firstly, from underreporting of income, secondly, from underpayment of taxes, and thirdly, from non-filing of returns. The tax evasions in the area of value added tax create one of the largest groups of tax gaps. This article describes the current situation in the field of tax gap in selected countries of the European Union. The aim of this paper is to determine the dependence of the VAT gap on three variables: the Corruption Perception Index CPI, GDP growth rate and the basic VAT rate. The method of regression analysis was used, which was performed on data in the years 2000–2011. Although it could be assumed that tax burden will affect the VAT gap the most, the highest dependence was shown in the case of Corruption Perception Index.