bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Searching Online for Health-Related Information by People Suffering from Respiratory Allergy and Asthma: The Results of a Survey Study
Authors: Kłak Anna , Raciborski Filip , Samoliński Bolesław
Published: April 2017

Introduction: The objective of the study was to compare online behaviour in groups of persons suffering from respiratory allergy and/or asthma and in the reference group. Material and methods: Comparative analysis of two independent questionnaire studies. Study A was carried out in the Masovian Voivodeship, Poland in 2013. As many as 1728 questionnaires were collected and 51 respondents were selected for analysis (study A, reference group). Study B was carried out in 2014 in a group of 59 patients of the outpatient allergy clinic. Results: More than 92% of the general population (study A) declared that they used the Internet to search for health-related information, health protection, while in the group of patients (study B) the same was declared by 97%. Both studies showed that more than 74% of respondents looked for online information on a specific disease (p > 0.05). Information on how other persons cope with similar health issues was searched by 20% (study A) and 33% (study B) of respondents. Advice on different methods of treatment of a given disease was sought by 40% and 51% of respondents, respectively. Nearly 51% of respondents in study A and 56% of subjects in study B searched online for health information when they did not feel well or were sick. Conclusions: Both in the group of chronically ill persons and in the reference group, it is common to search online for health-related information. Persons suffering from respiratory allergy and/or asthma verified the physician’s diagnosis on the Internet much more often than did the reference group.
Socioeconomic Status and Its Relationship to Chronic Respiratory Disease
Authors: Sahni Sonu , Talwar Ankoor , Khanijo Sameer , Talwar Arunabh
Published: April 2017

Socioeconomic status (SES) is defined as an individual’s social or economic standing, and is a measure of an individual’s or family’s social or economic position or rank in a social group. It is a composite of several measures including income, education, occupation, location of residence or housing. Studies have found a lower SES has been linked to disproportionate access to health care in many diseases. There is emerging data in pulmonary diseases such as COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and other chronic respiratory conditions that allude to a similar observation noted in other chronic diseases. In the setting of COPD, SES has an inverse relationship with COPD prevalence, mortality, health utilization costs and HRQoL. Asthma and cystic fibrosis show an increased severity and hospitalizations in relationship to a lower SES. Similar observations were seen in sarcoidosis, PHTN and obstructive sleep apnea. There remains a limited data on non-CF bronchiectasis and interstitial lung diseases. Population SES may be gauged by various measures such as education, occupation, marital status but no value is more indicative than income. Currently guidelines and management algorithms do not factor the effect of SES in the disease process. Despite the great amount of data available, a standardized method must be created to include SES in the prognostic calculations and management of chronic pulmonary diseases.
Selected Bone Morphogenetic Proteins—The Possibility of Their Use in the Diagnostics and Therapy of Severe Asthma
Authors: Koćwin Marcelina , Jonakowski Mateusz , Przemęcka Marcelina , Panek Michał , Kuna Piotr
Published: April 2017

Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous illness of the lower airway with an inflammatory basis, developing from hyperresponsiveness and bronchial obstruction. One of the more unfavourable processes occurring in the airway are the long-term changes of the respiratory tract known as remodelling, resulting in complete irreversible obstruction. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is a member of the Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily, which regulates processes in embryonic and post-embryonic development. The role played by BMP is regulation of degradation and remodelling of the extracellular matrix, which is one of the elements involved in the reconstruction of the structure of the bronchi in severe asthma. This paper presents the antagonistic properties of BMP against TGF-β, anti-inflammatory and counteracting fibrosis in the respiratory tract. The current state of knowledge indicates that this group of cytokines are potential new markers of remodelling in severe asthma, and further studies on their therapeutic value are necessary.
Speech Therapy—A Non-Pharmacological Method to Manage Difficult-to-treat Chronic Cough
Authors: Krakowiak Karolina , Dąbrowska Marta , Buła Filip , Łobacz Anna , Rojek Dorota , Grabczak Elżbieta , Krzeski Antoni , Krenke Rafał
Published: April 2017

Cough is the most common symptom of respiratory diseases. The results of management of chronic cough in adults are still unsatisfactory. Unexplained and difficult-to-treat chronic cough causes significant impairment in patients‘ quality of life. The results of recent studies suggest that speech therapy (speech language intervention) is one of the few methods which are usefull in management of persistent chronic cough. We present a case of a patient with chronic cough due to chronic nonallergic rhinitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease, who had been unsuccessfully treated for 18 years. In the patient speech therapy resulted in a significant decrease of cough severity and improvement of quality of life.
Corticosteroids and Hip Fracture Risk in Elderly Respiratory Patients: EPIC-Greece Cohort
Authors: Karakatsani Anna , Katsoulis Michail , Klinaki Eleni , Trichopoulou Antonia
Published: April 2017

We appreciate Drs. Tamura and Satoh’s interest in our work and the opportunity they give us to respond to their four questions [...]
EVALUATION OF ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF FEED INDUSTRY
IN POLAND IN THE YEARS 2010-2015
Authors: Czerwińska-Kayzer Dorota , Bieniasz Anna
Published: April 2017

The aim of the study was to evaluate the economic efficiency of the feed industry in the class of Poland in the
years 2010-2015. It was conducted on the basis of unpublished CSO data. In this paper an inductive approach is used,
which allows to present the detailed structure of the investigated phenomenon in combination with the analysis of the
indicator. The efficiency of feed industry was relatively higher than in the food industry, especially in relation to labor
productivity and return on assets and equity. In turn, the efficiency of the classes was varied. In general, the companies
producing pet food were more efficient.
THE RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 2014-2020 AS A SOURCE
OF IMPROVEMENT OF INNOVATIVENESS
Authors: Goryńska-Goldmann Elżbieta , Wojcieszak-Zbierska Monika
Published: April 2017

The aim of the paper was identify and assess progress in selected actions implemented under the Rural Development
Programme (RDP) 2014-2020 as a source of financing entities’ innovative undertakings. The availability of European funds
allocated to entities for increasing their competitiveness through innovativeness is a key element creating and developing innovative
economy. The paper describes the essence of innovativeness and indicates selected instruments supporting innovativeness under
the RDP 2014-2020. It also discusses the areas, ranges limits and use of support provided to business projects. The empirical data
came from reports, documents with public statistics and unpublished data of the Agency for Restructuring and Modernisation of
Agriculture. The authors stressed out the fact that the perception as well as the economic and financial situation of entities currently
functioning under precarious and unstable conditions, affect their openness to the EU offer. The EU funds will enable new entities
to initiate innovative trends, whereas old entities can continue these trends through investment activity. The process of applying for
funds is complicated, so it is not easy to receive support. It is necessary to take actions which will increase efficient use of the funds.
EVALUATION OF CHANGES IN THE EFFICIENCY OF NITROGEN
UTILIZATION IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION OF POLAND
Authors: Kopiński Jerzy
Published: April 2017

The aim of the study was evaluation the use of nitrogen in Polish agriculture, at national (NUTS-0) and regional
(NUTS-2) levels. The conducted analysis between 2002 and 2014, based on the gross nitrogen balance, showed an
improvement in the use of this macronutrient in the agricultural production process in Poland. Despite the continuing
negative relationship between N:P:K in applied mineral fertilizers, the efficiency of nitrogen utilization has far exceeded
60% in recent years. The use of this nutrient has also improved in most Polish voivodeships. However the differences
between them are quite significant and range from 55% in wielkopolskie to 84% in the podkarpackie voivodeships. The
efficiency of nitrogen utilization is significantly negatively correlated with its balance surpluses (r2 = 0.77).
AN ATTEMPT TO UPDATE THE METHOD FOR DETERMINING
THE INTENSITY OF ORGANIZATION OF AGRICULTURE
Authors: Lorencewicz Edmund , Mazurek Krzyszof , Kocira Sławomir
Published: April 2017

The paper presents a method for determining the intensity of organization and proposals for changes
resulting from the need to adapt to the current economic conditions in agriculture. Economic changes
and technological advances meant that developed by Kopeć indicators do not provide for differentiation
of results. Authors propose new values and suggest further directions of the method updating.
PRODUCTION POTENTIAL, INTENSITY OF PRODUCTION AND ECONOMIC
RESULTS OF FADN FARMS FROM VARIOUS REGIONS IN POLAND IN THE
YEARS 2004-2013
Authors: Orłowska Marta Jolanta
Published: April 2017

The aim of the study was to compare the changes that took place in the years 2004-2013 in the
production capacity of farms from different regions in Poland. There were also analyzed the relationship
between the resources of production factors, production intensity and their economic situation. Study was
based on information collected by uniform rules in the database published on the EU website. Methods
of analysis of the statistical series, analysis of vertical and horizontal were applied. In the years 2004-
2013 the farms increased their production potential, production intensity and achieved higher and higher
economic results. However, the differences between the holdings of different regions did not go away and
some even deepened. In Poland the polarization farms progressed. On one side, remained economically
strong large and well technically equipped farms of Pomerania and Mazury and Wielkopolska and Silesia,
on the other economically and territorially smaller with a lower rate of technical work equipment on
farms of Mazovia and Podlasie and also Malopolska and Pogorze. Farms of Pomerania and Mazury and
Wielkopolska and Silesia achieved income allowing to exceed parity charge of their own work, while the
average farm of Mazovia and Podlasie and Małopolska and Pogorze it did not cover the costs of their
own factors of production use.
MARKET OF NEW AND USED AGRICULTURAL TRACTORS IN POLAND
IN THE YEARS 2012-2016
Authors: Skudlarski Jacek
Published: April 2017

The objective of the paper was to analyse of the changes on the market of new and used tractors in Poland. Initial data
were obtained from the resources of Polish Chamber of Commerce of Agricultural Machines and Facilities (PChCoAMF). In
2012-2016 were registered 143 439 agricultural tractors, including 72 152 of new tractors. Level of purchase tractors in the
reporting period decreased by about 7 thousand units, mainly, due to lower demand for new tractors. Demand reduction on
tractors in the reporting period was resulted from the absence the European Union subsidies, and the unfavourable situation
on the market of agricultural production.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES IN THE RURAL AREAS
OF THE WIELKOPOLSKIE PROVINCE IN THE YEARS 2005-2015
Authors: Stanisławska Joanna , Głowicka-Wołoszyn Romana
Published: April 2017

The aim of the research was to diagnose demographic changes that took place in the rural areas of the Wielkopolska
province between 2005 and 2015. The study identified rural areas that were located within the boundaries of the Poznań
Metropolitan Area and beyond this area. The research was based on data from the Central Statistical Office and the
Statistical Office in Poznań. As a result of the conducted research, it was observed that demographic changes in the rural
areas of Wielkopolska province such as population growth or changes in population structure by place of residence or
economic age groups are largely caused by migration movements. In the analyzed period there was an influx of population
into rural areas (positive migration balance), although in recent years a slight inhibition of this phenomenon has been
observed. In addition, there was a slight increase in positive natural growth. More dynamic changes have been observed
in rural areas within the Poznan Metropolitan Area. In the studied period, changes in the opposite direction were observed
in cities, ie the decrease in the number of inhabitants and in birthrate, as well as the increase in emigration from cities
(decrease of the negative migration balance).
Morphological Features and Prognostic Significance of ARID1A-Deficient Esophageal Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Drage Michael G. , Tippayawong Mingkhwan , Agoston Agoston T. , Zheng Yifan , Bueno Raphael , Hornick Jason L. , Odze Robert D. , Srivastava Amitabh
Published: April 2017

Context.—

The clinicopathologic and prognostic significance of ARID1A mutation in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is unknown.

Objective.—

To determine the morphological correlates and prognostic significance of ARID1A-deficient EAC.

Design.—

One hundred twenty cases of primary EAC were evaluated for a predetermined set of histologic features and immunohistochemistry for ARID1A, p53, and MLH1 performed on EAC, as well as adjacent Barrett esophagus and Barrett esophagus–associated dysplasia, when feasible. Associations between categorical clinicopathologic variables were analyzed by Fisher exact test, and survival analysis was performed by a Cox proportional hazards analysis.

Results.—

The study group included 97 men and 23 women (mean age, 66 years). Loss of ARID1A expression was seen in 12 of 120 EACs (10%). ARID1A-deficient tumors showed a strong correlation with a medullary and mucinous phenotype, and 8 of 12 (67%) had at least one feature reminiscent of high microsatellite instability colon carcinomas (mucinous or medullary differentiation, marked intratumoral or peritumoral lymphoid infiltrate). A mutant p53 pattern was present in 52 of 120 EACs (43%) and showed no correlation with ARID1A deficiency (P > .05). MLH1 loss was present in only 2 of 120 EACs (2%); both of which were also deficient in ARID1A. ARID1A-deficient EACs showed a trend toward increased risk of nodal metastasis but had no effect on overall patient survival.

Conclusions.—

ARID1A-deficient EACs show a phenotype similar to colon cancer with high microsatellite instability but do not appear to have any prognostic significance. Concurrent MLH1 loss is not seen in most ARID1A-deficient tumors, suggesting that ARID1A may be a primary driver of carcinogenesis in a subset of EACs.
NOTCH signalinio kelio ir ginekologinių piktybinių navikų sąsaja
Authors: Lachej Nadežda , Dabkevičienė Daiva , Sasnauskienė Aušra , Trimonytė Rūta Marija , Kanopienė Daiva , Kazbarienė Birutė , Didžiapetrienė Janina
Published: April 2017

Įvadas. Organizmo ląstelėse vykstančius procesus kontroliuoja įvairūs signaliniai keliai. Vienas iš jų yra NOTCH signalinis kelias. Nustatyta, kad dalinis NOTCH funkcijos praradimas arba nenormalus NOTCH signalo aktyvinimas susijęs su įvairiais žmogaus vystymosi sutrikimais ir ligomis.
Medžiaga ir metodika. Pagrindinis informacijos šaltinis ieškant duomenų – PubMed duomenų bazė.
Rezultatai. Straipsnyje nagrinėjama onkologinių ligų bei NOTCH signalinio kelio dalyvių sąsaja. NOTCH signalas, vystantis vėžiui, gali veikti dvejopai: kaip onkogenas ir kaip naviko augimo slopiklis. Tikslus tokio poveikio mechanizmas dar nėra žinomas. NOTCH signalinio kelio tyrimai svarbūs siekiant atrasti naujus vėžio gydymo būdus, farmakologiniais ir genetiniais metodais valdant NOTCH signalinį kelią. Šioje apžvalgoje daugiausia dėmesio skiriama ginekologiniams piktybiniams navikams, ypač gimdos kūno vėžiui.
Išvados. Pastarųjų metų mokslinių tyrimų duomenys rodo, kad NOTCH signalinis kelias yra neabejotinai svarbus formuojantis gimdos kūno vėžiui, todėl jo komponentai gali būti potencialūs prognoziniai biožymenys ir molekuliniai terapiniai taikiniai. Siekiant patikslinti NOTCH signalinio kelio dalyvių reikšmę bei jų sąveiką su kitų signalinių kelių dalyviais, kurie taip pat gali būti svarbūs formuojantis ir progresuojant gimdos kūno vėžiui, reikalingi tolesni šios srities moksliniai tyrimai.
Agir professionnel, point de vue et mobilité empathique
Authors: Rabatel Alain
Published: April 2017

Cet article fait l’hypothèse que la construction d’un agir professionnel enseignant passe par la conceptualisation et la théorisation de la pratique, par un positionnement qui permet de prendre du recul par rapport à l’activité professionnelle, aux apprenants mais encore par des processus complexes de positionnements linguistiques et cognitifs envers les savoirs académiques et les injonctions institutionnelles. Cette hypothèse est confrontée au positionnement scriptural que de jeunes enseignants stagiaires adoptent lors de l’écriture de leur mémoire professionnel et est abordée à travers le prisme de la problématique du point de vue. Après avoir présenté cette problématique dans ses diverses dimensions, l’article se focalise sur le concept linguistique de point de vue, puis analyse ses liens avec la notion affine d’empathie, et, plus particulièrement, de mobilité empathique. Enfin, il montre combien ces techniques linguistiques, corrélées à la mobilité empathique et aux capabilités afférentes, sont de nature à aider à la professionnalisation des (jeunes) enseignants en leur permettant de problématiser leur propre point de vue grâce à une distance réflexive envers les points de vue des autorités (institutionnelles ou académiques) ou envers leur objet de recherche, à partir de la prise en compte de leur situation et de leur expérience, de façon à mieux faire émerger la complexité de leur objet de recherche et à être mieux armé pour l’exercice de leur métier.
Circulation de savoirs entre institution de formation et terrains scolaires : analyse de dispositifs de formation à l’enseignement de la production écrite en Suisse romande
Authors: Gagnon Roxane , Laurens Véronique
Published: April 2017

Dans ce texte, nous analysons le traitement de la pratique professionnelle dans deux séquences de formation portant sur l’enseignement de la production écrite. Dans un premier temps, nous observons les caractéristiques des dispositifs de formation prévoyant l’alternance entre le terrain scolaire et l’institution de formation. La focale est ensuite mise sur les interactions entre formateur et formés à l’intérieur de deux activités de formation ciblant le retour sur la pratique. L’intérêt de cette double perspective est de mieux comprendre la circulation des savoirs d’un lieu à un autre et comment cette circulation est mise au service du développement de l’agir enseignant.
Effets formateurs de verbalisations issues d’entretiens d’autoconfrontation (Le cas de la formation pratique d’agents de soin mortuaire)
Authors: Pham Quang Long
Published: April 2017

L’article porte sur l’étude de l’apprentissage sur la place de travail du métier d’agent de soin mortuaire. Il s’appuie sur une analyse des verbalisations produites par des stagiaires dans un dispositif méthodologique de recherche reposant sur des entretiens d’autoconfrontation. Ces entretiens se rapportent à des séquences filmées d’apprentissage en situation de travail. L’objectif est d’identifier, dans le cadre de l’interaction tutorale, des traces d’apprentissage du stagiaire dans ses verbalisations, qui peuvent être mises en rapport avec des référentiels hospitaliers. Les autoconfrontations engendrent des verbalisations à partir de traces filmées de l’activité qui, comme l’a montré la clinique de l’activité, ne sont pas une simple restitution de l’activité telle qu’elle a eu lieu, mais constitue une expérience dont la présente contribution vise à caractériser les aspects formatifs pour les stagiaires engagés. Les analyses produites mettent en évidence que les entretiens d’autoconfrontation ont un effet formatif outre leur fonction permettant de mieux comprendre l’activité. Dans cette perspective, la contribution s’inscrit tout particulièrement dans un enjeu méthodologique en insistant sur l’analyse des données visant à rendre compte des traces d’apprentissage telles que verbalisées et reconnues par les stagiaires dans leurs interactions avec les tuteurs. Nous interrogeons à cette occasion la dimension formative de cet appareillage méthodologique dans la perspective de participer à la conception de dispositifs de formation destinés à ces professionnels.
Paolo Grillenzoni: Kant e la scienza (1755-1760), Roma, Aracne, 2016, 575 pp., ISBN: 978-8854895232
Authors: Savino Daniele
Published: April 2017

Reseña de Paolo Grillenzoni: Kant e la scienza (1755-1760), Roma, Aracne, 2016, 575 pp., ISBN: 978-8854895232
Kant Vàlencia
Authors: SEKLE REK
Published: April 2017

Convocatoria de presentación de originales para el IV Congreso internacional de la Sociedad de Estudios Kantianos en Lengua Española (SEKLE)
Normas para autores
Authors: SEKLE REK
Published: April 2017

Normas para autores
Is it “impossible to will to be punished?” Exploring a consensual way out of the Kantian dilemma
Authors: Parmigiani Matías
Published: April 2017

In the Metaphysics of Morals Kant wrote that “it is impossible to will to be punished”. The main goal of the present paper is to challenge this idea. In contemporary literature, a similar challenge was attempted by assigning a pivotal role to the notion of ‘consent’. Therefore, focused on these antecedents, what I will try to do in this paper is to determine whether the notion of consent is capable of playing any role whatsoever in a justificatory theory of punishment.
Nuria Sánchez Madrid: A civilização como destino. Kant e as formas da reflexão. Florianópolis, Nefiponline, 2016, 288 pp. ISBN: 978-85-99608-16-6.
Authors: Ros Velasco Josefa
Published: April 2017

Reseña del libro de Nuria Sánchez Madrid
Continuidad y novedad en la concepción histórica de Kant en El conflicto de las facultades
Authors: Lerussi Natalia Andrea
Published: April 2017

En el trabajo analizamos algunas continuidades y novedades fundamentales de la concepción kantiana de la historia en el texto El conflicto de las facultades (1798) en comparación con su perspectiva histórica previa. Mostramos que, en líneas generales, Kant conserva el marco teórico a partir del cual explica el desarrollo histórico en sus textos anteriores, es decir, los conceptos de disposiciones humanas y de circunstancias externas de desenvolvimiento de dichas disposiciones. Ahora, en 1798 modifica el tipo de disposiciones que cumplen el rol explicativo en el desarrollo histórico pues ahora son las disposiciones morales y no, como antes, las disposiciones no morales aquellas que motorizan el progreso histórico. Esto tiene una consecuencia importante en la concepción de la estructura de tiempo histórico que será indicada en el trabajo.
Immanuel Kant (trad. Alba Jiménez): Lecciones de filosofi?a moral Mrongovius II, Salamanca, Ediciones Sígueme, 2017, 160 pp., ISBN: 978-84-301-1954-7
Authors: Veraza Tonda Pablo
Published: April 2017

Reseña de Immanuel Kant (trad. Alba Jiménez): Lecciones de filosofi?a moral Mrongovius II, Salamanca, Ediciones Sígueme, 2017, 160 pp., ISBN: 978-84-301-1954-7
Rezension zur Internationalen Tagung „Teleologische Reflexion in Kants Philosophie“
Authors: Pickhan (geb. Brechtel) Anna
Published: April 2017

Rezension zur Internationalen Tagung „Teleologische Reflexion in Kants Philosophie”. Heidelberg 10.02. - 11.02.2017
Incorporating Traffic Control and Safety Hardware Performance Functions into Risk-based Highway Safety Analysis
Authors: Li Zongzhi , Dao Hoang , Patel Harshingar , Liu Yi , Zhou Bei
Published: April 2017

Traffic control and safety hardware such as traffic signs, lighting, signals, pavement markings, guardrails, barriers, and crash cushions form an important and inseparable part of highway infrastructure affecting safety performance. Significant progress has been made in recent decades to develop safety performance functions and crash modification factors for site-specific crash predictions. However, the existing models and methods lack rigorous treatments of safety impacts of time-deteriorating conditions of traffic control and safety hardware. This study introduces a refined method for computing the Safety Index (SI) as a means of crash predictions for a highway segment that incorporates traffic control and safety hardware performance functions into the analysis. The proposed method is applied in a computation experiment using five-year data on nearly two hundred rural and urban highway segments. The root-mean square error (RMSE), Chi-square, Spearman’s rank correlation, and Mann-Whitney U tests are employed for validation.
A Model of Determining the Closest Point of Approach Between Ships on the Open Sea
Authors: Vujičić Srđan , Mohović Đani , Mohović Robert
Published: April 2017

The main objective of this paper proposes the model for the decision-making process with the intent of optimising the collision avoidance in the crossing situation on the open sea. Using the IMO Resolution standards for ship manoeuvrability, along with the equation for determining the required distance of the closest point of approach (CPA) and other parameters for own ship and the target ship, it can be possible to determine the distance at which to start alternation and collision avoidance. The research results that involved ship officers and captains with the aim of determining the Closest Point of Approach (CPA) showed a very subjective assessment method. The presented model obtained by the simulation method to determine the CPA between ships on the open sea is the key finding of this research and leaves room for further research and its further implementation on unmanned ships.
Stigma, access to healthcare, and HIV risks among men who sell sex to men in Nigeria
Authors: Crowell Trevor A , Keshinro Babajide , Baral Stefan D , Schwartz Sheree R , Stahlman Shauna , Nowak Rebecca G , Adebajo Sylvia , Blattner William A , Charurat Manhattan E , Ake Julie A ,   for the TRUST/RV368 Study Group
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Among men who have sex with men (MSM), men who sell sex (MSS) may be subject to increased sexual behaviour‐related stigma that affects uptake of healthcare and risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The objectives of this study were to characterize stigma, access to care, and prevalence of HIV among MSS in Nigeria.

Methods: Respondent‐driven sampling was used to recruit MSM in Abuja and Lagos into the ongoing TRUST/RV368 study, which provides HIV testing and treatment. Detailed behavioural data were collected by trained interviewers. MSS were identified by self‐report of receiving goods or money in exchange for sex with men. Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to explore the impact of sex‐selling on the risk of HIV.

Results: From 12 initial seed participants, 1552 men were recruited from March 2013‐March 2016. Of these, 735 (47.4%) reported sex‐selling. Compared to other MSM, MSS were younger (median 22 vs. 24 years, p < 0.001) and more likely to identify as gay/homosexual (42.4% vs. 31.5%, p < 0.001). MSS were more likely to report perceived and experienced stigmas such as healthcare avoidance (27.6% vs. 21.5%, p = 0.005) and verbal harassment (39.2% vs. 26.8%, p < 0.001). Total HIV prevalence was 53.4%. After controlling for other factors, HIV prevalence among MSS was similar to that observed among other MSM (relative risk 0.94 [95% confidence interval 0.84–1.05]).

Conclusions: These data highlight increased sexual behaviour‐related stigma affecting MSS, as compared with other MSM, that limits uptake of healthcare services. The distinct characteristics and risks among MSS suggest the need for specific interventions to optimize linkage to HIV prevention and treatment services in Nigeria.
New HIV testing technologies in the context of a concentrated epidemic and evolving HIV prevention: qualitative research on HIV self‐testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women in Yangon, Myanmar
Authors: Wirtz Andrea L. , Clouse Emily , Veronese Vanessa , Thu Kaung Htet , Naing Soe , Baral Stefan D. , Beyrer Chris
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Global effort to increase early diagnosis and engagement in HIV care emphasize the importance of developing novel approaches to reaching those missed by traditional methods. Such needs are particularly great for men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women (TW), and other populations who face stigma. Myanmar's HIV epidemic is concentrated among key populations and the revised National Strategy aims to reduce late diagnosis and barriers to care to curb HIV incidence among these groups. HIV self‐testing (HIVST) may be one method to improve testing and diagnosis among key populations, by placing HIV testing and disclosure within the individual's control.

Methods: Formative, qualitative research including in‐depth interviews with adult MSM (N = 12) and TW (N = 13) and focus group discussions with MSM, TW, and community key informants (N = 35) were conducted in June‐September 2015 in Yangon, Myanmar. To inform a subsequent HIV care continuum intervention, including HIVST, participants’ opinions and perceptions about HIVST were elicited.

Results: The confidentiality and privacy of HIVST, particularly as it related to disclosure of HIV status and sexual behaviour, was widely recognized among participants. These major advantages were further supported by the opportunity to avoid stigma, convenience of self‐testing (reduced need for transportation and time to go to clinics), and the availability of a pain‐free testing option. Participants weighed these benefits against perceived disadvantages of HIVST, the majority of which centred on the perception that HIVST does not include counselling. Participants were concerned that potential lack of counselling would result in poor mental health outcomes, inadequate linkage to HIV care and surveillance, and reductions in disclosure of HIV status. Participants did not view these disadvantages as an impediment, but provided suggestions for future implementation of HIVST in Myanmar.

Conclusions: MSM and TW are optimistic about the confidentiality and privacy afforded by HIVST but wanted HIV counselling and linkage to appropriate services. The domestic reprioritization of HIV and opening of the country to international support has substantially increased the availability of HIV treatment and provides new opportunities, like HIVST, to potentially improve the HIV response for key populations who are at risk for HIV acquisition.
CRF: detection of CRISPR arrays using random forest
Authors: Wang Kai , Liang Chun
Published: April 2017

CRISPRs (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) are particular repeat sequences found in wide range of bacteria and archaea genomes. Several tools are available for detecting CRISPR arrays in the genomes of both domains. Here we developed a new web-based CRISPR detection tool named CRF (CRISPR Finder by Random Forest). Different from other CRISPR detection tools, a random forest classifier was used in CRF to filter out invalid CRISPR arrays from all putative candidates and accordingly enhanced detection accuracy. In CRF, particularly, triplet elements that combine both sequence content and structure information were extracted from CRISPR repeats for classifier training. The classifier achieved high accuracy and sensitivity. Moreover, CRF offers a highly interactive web interface for robust data visualization that is not available among other CRISPR detection tools. After detection, the query sequence, CRISPR array architecture, and the sequences and secondary structures of CRISPR repeats and spacers can be visualized for visual examination and validation. CRF is freely available at http://bioinfolab.miamioh.edu/crf/home.php.
Virtual reconstruction of the endocranial anatomy of the early Jurassic marine crocodylomorphPelagosaurus typus(Thalattosuchia)
Authors: Pierce Stephanie E. , Williams Megan , Benson Roger B.J.
Published: April 2017

Thalattosuchians were highly specialised aquatic archosaurs of the Jurassic and Early Cretaceous, and represent a peak of aquatic adaptation among crocodylomorphs. Relatively little is known of their endocranial anatomy or its relevance for the evolution of sensory systems, physiology, and other aspects of biology. Nevertheless, such data have significance for two reasons: (1) thalattosuchians represent an important data point regarding adaptation to marine life in tetrapods; and (2) as early-diverging members of the crocodylian stem-lineage, thalattosuchians provide information on the evolutionary assembly of the brain and other endocranial structures in crocodylomorphs. Here we use µCT data to virtually reconstruct the endocranial anatomy ofPelagosaurus typus, an early thalattosuchian with plesiomorphic traits of relevance to the split between the two major subgroups: Teleosauroidea and Metriorhynchoidea. Interpretation of these data in a broad comparative context indicate that several key endocranial features may be unique to thalattosuchians, including: a pyramidal morphology of the semicircular canals, the presence of an elongate endosseous cochlear duct that may indicate enhanced hearing ability, the presence of large, paired canals extending anteriorly from an enlarged pituitary fossa, a relatively straight brain (possibly due to the presence of large, laterally placed orbits), and an enlarged venous sinus projecting dorsally from the endocast that is confluent with the paratympanic sinus system. Notably, we document a large expansion of the nasal cavity anterior to the orbits inPelagosaurusas an osteological correlate of an enlarged salt gland previously only documented in Late Jurassic metriorhynchoids. This is the first anatomical evidence of this structure in early thalattosuchians.Pelagosaurusalso shares the presence of paired olfactory bulbs with metriorhynchoids, and shows an enlarged cerebrum, which may also be present in teleosauroids. Taken together, our findings indicate that physiological and sensory adaptations to marine life occurred early in thalattosuchian evolution, predating the origins of flippers, tail flukes, and hydrodynamic body forms seen later in metriorhynchoids.
DNA Barcoding analysis of seafood accuracy in Washington, D.C. restaurants
Authors: Stern David B. , Castro Nallar Eduardo , Rathod Jason , Crandall Keith A.
Published: April 2017

In Washington D.C., recent legislation authorizes citizens to test if products are properly represented and, if they are not, to bring a lawsuit for the benefit of the general public. Recent studies revealing the widespread phenomenon of seafood substitution across the United States make it a fertile area for consumer protection testing. DNA barcoding provides an accurate and cost-effective way to perform these tests, especially when tissue alone is available making species identification based on morphology impossible. In this study, we sequenced the 5′ barcoding region of the Cytochrome Oxidase I gene for 12 samples of vertebrate and invertebrate food items across six restaurants in Washington, D.C. and used multiple analytical methods to make identifications. These samples included several ambiguous menu listings, sequences with little genetic variation among closely related species and one sequence with no available reference sequence. Despite these challenges, we were able to make identifications for all samples and found that 33% were potentially mislabeled. While we found a high degree of mislabeling, the errors involved closely related species and we did not identify egregious substitutions as have been found in other cities. This study highlights the efficacy of DNA barcoding and robust analyses in identifying seafood items for consumer protection.
Enhancement of Cardiomyogenesis in Murine Stem Cells by Low‐Intensity Ultrasound
Authors: Teo Ailing , Morshedi Amir , Wang Jen‐Chieh , Zhou Yufeng , Lim Mayasari
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Low‐intensity ultrasound (LIUS) has been shown to enhance bone and cartilage regeneration from stem cells. The ease of its incorporation makes it an attractive mechanical stimulus for not only osteogenesis and chondrogenesis, but also cardiomyogenesis. However, to date, no study has investigated its effects on cardiomyogenesis from embryonic stem cells.

Methods

In this study, murine embryonic stem cells were differentiated via embryoid body formation and plating, and after 3 days they were subjected to daily 10 minutes of LIUS treatment with various conditions: (1) low‐pulsed (21 mW/cm2, 20% duty cycle), (2) low‐continuous, (3) high‐pulsed (147 mW/cm2, 20% duty cycle), and (4) high‐continuous LIUS.

Results

Low‐pulsed and high‐continuous LIUS had improved beating rates of contractile areas as well as increased late cardiac gene expressions, such as α‐ and β‐myosin heavy chain and cardiac troponin T, showing its benefits on cardiomyocyte differentiation. Meanwhile, an early endodermal marker, α‐fetoprotein, was significantly attenuated after LIUS treatments.

Conclusions

With these observations, it is demonstrated that LIUS simulation could enhance cardiomyogenesis from embryonic stem cells and increase its selectivity toward cardiomyocytes by reducing spontaneous differentiation.
On the spatial coherence of the Atlantic Water inflow across the Nordic Seas
Authors: Herbaut Christophe , Houssais Marie‐Noëlle , Close Sally , Blaizot Anne‐Cécile
Published: April 2017

The covariability of the Atlantic Water (AW) branches in the Nordic Seas is investigated over the period 1979–2012 using an eddy permitting model. A noticeable circulation change is found in the mid‐1990s. Prior to the mid‐1990s, the leading mode of variability defines a large‐scale pattern, with concomitant variations in the Atlantic Water (AW) inflow in the Faroe‐Shetland Channel (FSC), the Norwegian Atlantic Slope Current (NwASC), the AW inflow to the Barents Sea, and the West Spitsbergen Current (WSC). After the mid‐1990s, the covariability between the NwASC and the AW inflow in both the FSC and the WSC is lost. Consequently, the northern Barents Sea circulation anomaly pattern, which is present throughout the full period, becomes the leading mode of circulation in the northern Nordic Seas after the mid‐1990s. The circulation change of the mid‐1990s appears to be linked to a weakening of the southwesterly wind anomalies in Norwegian Sea, as the northern center of action of the first mode of sea level pressure weakens. Passive tracer experiments suggest that this circulation change may be accompanied by increased heat transfer from the AW current to the interior Nordic Seas. This in turn may have limited the influence of the recently observed AW warming in the Iceland‐Scotland Passage on the NwASC downstream.
Improvements to the snow melting process in a partially double moment microphysics parameterization
Authors: Brown Bonnie R. , Bell Michael M. , Thompson Gregory
Published: April 2017

Polarimetric upgrades to the U.S. radar network have allowed new insight into the precipitation processes of tropical cyclones. Previous work by the authors compared the reflectivity at horizontal polarization and differential reflectivity observations from two hurricanes to simulated radar observations from the WRF model, and found that the aerosol‐aware Thompson‐Eidhammer microphysical scheme performed the best of several commonly used bulk microphysical parameterizations. Here we expand our investigation of the Thompson‐Eidhammer scheme, and find that though it provided the most accurate forecast in terms of wind speed and simulated radar signatures, the scheme produces areas in which the differential reflectivity was much higher than observed. We conclude that the Thompson‐Eidhammer scheme produces drop size distributions that have a larger median drop size than observed in regions of light stratiform precipitation. Examination of the vertical structure of simulated differential reflectivity indicates that the source of the discrepancy between the model and radar observations likely originates within the melting layer. The treatment of number production of rain drops from melting snow in the microphysical scheme is shown to be the ultimate source of the enhancement of differential reflectivity. A modification to the scheme is shown to result in better fidelity of the radar variables with the observations without degrading the short‐term intensity forecast. Additional tests with an idealized squall line simulation are consistent with the hurricane results, suggesting the modification is generally applicable. The modifications to the Thompson‐Eidhammer scheme shown here have been incorporated into updates of the WRF model starting with version 3.8.1.
Addendum to Chlorinated biphenyls [BAT Value Documentation 2015]
Authors: Rettenmeier A.W. , Kraus T. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated chlorinated biphenyls and has derived a BAT value (biological tolerance value) for the combined plasma levels of the PCB congeners PCB 28, PCB 52, PCB 101, PCB 138, PCB 153 and PCB 180. Available publications are described in detail.

The evaluation of the BAT value was based on studies in rats and has therefore to be regarded as preliminary. In a 2‐year NTP study of PCB 153 in female SD rats, a NOAEL of 10 µg/kg body weight was observed. Liver hypertrophy was the critical toxic effect. The mean blood concentration of PCB 153 was 17.4 µg/l. After extrapolation to humans and considering the non‐dioxin‐like indicator congeners, a BAT value for the combined plasma concentrations of PCB 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180 of 15 µg/l was established. A specific sampling time is not required.

The BAR („Biologische Arbeitsstoff‐Referenzwerte“) in plasma of 0.02 µg/l for PCB 28, <0.01 µg/l for PCB 52, and <0.01 µg/l for PCB 101 were reconfirmed. Exceeding the BAR indicates additional occupational exposure.
Addendum to Aniline [BAT Value Documentation 2015]
Authors: Bolt H.M. , Leng G. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the BAT value (biological tolerance value) for aniline, considering aniline in urine to characterise the internal exposure and the methaemoglobin formation as critical effect. Available publications as well as unpublished study reports are described in detail.

In a new chamber study, 19 individuals were exposed to the present MAK‐value of 2 ml
3
for 6 hours with defined physical activity. The background level of methaemoglobin was 0.7 ± 0.2%. At the end of exposure, an increase of up to 1.2 ± 0.3% (range 0.8–2.1%) was observed. The mean excretion of aniline in urine after hydrolysis at the end of exposure was 168 ± 52 µg/l (range 79.5–418 µg/l).

The BAT‐value relates to an air concentration of 2 ml/m
3
and a methaemoglobin level of 5%. Considering this study, a BAT‐value of 500 µg aniline (after hydrolysis)/l urine was evaluated. This value is a maximum concentration because of acute toxic effects of methaemoglobin. Sampling time is at the end of exposure or the end of the working shift.

For the hemoglobin adduct of aniline, a BLW (“Biologischer Leitwert”) of 100 µg aniline (released from aniline‐haemoglobin conjugate)/l blood was evaluated based on occupational‐medical experiences in field studies.
Methyl bromide [MAK Value Documentation, 2016]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the developmental toxicity of methyl bromide [
74‐83‐9
]. Available unpublished study reports and publications are described in detail. The maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of methyl bromide is 1 ml/m
3
, based on the irritant effect on the upper respiratory tract.

NOAECs for prenatal developmental toxicity in rats and rabbits were 70 ml/m
3
and 40 ml/m
3
, respectively. NOAELs of 30 and 10 mg/kg body weight and day in rats and rabbits, respectively, were obtained in gavage studies, corresponding to 14 and 8 ml/m
3
after scaling to a concentration at the workplace. Thus, there is an adequate margin between NOAEC/L for developmental toxicity and the MAK value.

However, methyl bromide is a neurotoxin and no data on developmental neurotoxicity exist. In adult mice and rats, neurotoxic symptoms like convulsions and paralysis of the hind limbs are observed. In a two‐generation study the adult F0 and F1 generations do not show such neurotoxic effects at 90 ml/m
3
, which would have been expected particularly in the F1‐animals, who have a longer exposure time which included complete gestation. It can be inferred that offspring are not more sensitive to the neurotoxicity of methyl bromide than adults. Thus, damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely when the MAK value is observed and methyl bromide is re‐assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group C.
An Improved Li–SeS2 Battery with High Energy Density and Long Cycle Life
Authors: Li Zhen , Zhang Jintao , Wu Hao Bin , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: April 2017

Selenium–sulfur solid solutions are a class of potential cathode materials for high energy batteries, since they have higher theoretical capacities than selenium and improved conductivity over sulfur. Here, a high‐performance cathode material by confining 70 wt% of SeS2 in a highly ordered mesoporous carbon (CMK‐3) framework with a polydopamine (PDA) protection sheath for novel Li–Se/S batteries is reported. With a relatively high SeS2 mass loading of 2.6–3 mg cm−2, the CMK‐3/SeS2@PDA cathode exhibits a high capacity of >1200 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, excellent C‐rate capability of 535 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1, and prolonged life over 500 cycles. Benefitting from the unique advantages of SeS2 and the rationally designed host framework, this new cathode material demonstrates a feasible strategy to overcome the bottlenecks of current Li–S systems for high energy density rechargeable batteries.
Direct nonoxidative conversion of methane to hydrogen and higher hydrocarbons by dielectric barrier discharge plasma with plasma catalysis promoters
Authors: Chiremba Elijah , Zhang Kui , Kazak Canan , Akay Galip
Published: April 2017

Direct nonoxidative conversion of methane to hydrogen and hydrocarbons was achieved at atmospheric pressure and 120°C using nonthermal plasma sustained by plasma catalysis promoters (PCPs). Reactors had two different electrode configurations. Methane conversion correlated well with the specific energy density (SED). Methane conversion was independent of plasma power, flow rate, electrode configuration, or the type of PCPs. Hydrogen selectivity (ca. 60%) was dependent significantly on PCP and electrode configuration. The ethane/ethylene molar ratio increased from 0 to 0.15 with increasing SED. When the SED value was below ca. 100 kJ/L, ethylene was the only C2 hydrocarbon. These results are similar to the recently reported nonoxidative catalytic methane conversion at ca. 1000°C. Therefore, these results represent process intensification in methane conversion. PCPs underwent structural and chemical changes but their performances are not affected during an 80‐h experimental period. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4418–4429, 2017