bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Phonotactic Constraints on Second Language Speech Processing
Authors: Katayama Tamami
Published: December 2015

In this study, we examined whether phonotactic constraints of the first language affect speech processing by Japanese learners of English and whether their proficiency of the second language influences it. Native English speakers and second language speakers with a high level of language proficiency and those with a low level took part in a monitoring task. They were given two kinds of sound stimuli as target syllables (i.e., consonant–vowel and consonant–vowel–consonant) and were asked to detect them in lists of words that have stress on the first or second syllable (e.g., biscuit and beside). The results showed that both stress and phonotactics facilitated segmentation strategies by the three groups. The Japanese groups did not rely on either phonotactics or morae to segment the target syllables. They rather used stress to detect the target syllables in the English words, which is a different segmentation strategy from their first language. This study showed that phonotactic constraints did not interfere with second language processing by native Japanese speakers and provided evidence that second language speakers use the segmentation strategy that is used by native speakers of the target language.
Second-Order Footsteps Illusions
Authors: Kitaoka Akiyoshi , Anstis Stuart
Published: December 2015

In the “footsteps illusion”, light and dark squares travel at constant speed across black and white stripes. The squares appear to move faster and slower as their contrast against the stripes varies. We now demonstrate some second-order footsteps illusions, in which all edges are defined by colors or textures—even though luminance-based neural motion detectors are blind to such edges.
Increasing stimulus duration improves attention and memory performance in elderly with cognitive impairment
Authors: Lavner Yizhar , Rabinowitz Israel
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

In this study, we investigated whether increasing stimulus duration could improve performance on a test of attention and short-term memory in cognitively impaired individuals.

Methods:

A computer-generated forward digit span test was administered to 65 patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia (28 intervention and 37 controls). After point of failure, testing in the intervention group was continued at the same rate, but with an average 150% digit lengthening to 800 ms. Testing of controls was continued using the standard digit span test.

Results:

In the intervention group, 13/28 (46.4%) improved their digit span test performance, compared to 2/37 (5.4%) in the control group ( p = 0.00005).

Conclusion:

Cognitively impaired elderly participants improved performance on a test of attention and short-term memory, when stimulus duration was increased in proportion to elongation of the finger tap touch-phase previously found in a similar cohort. A possible mechanism for the effect of increased stimulus duration on attention and short-term memory is discussed.
Variceal bleeding caused by oesophageal varices: A manifestation of hepatocellular carcinoma in a 17-year-old girl
Authors: Ali Saadia Sasha , Sanmuganathan Samuel N
Published: December 2015

The authors present the rare case of a 17-year-old girl referred to the medical assessment unit following a large upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage. On further evaluation, she was found to have a primary hepatocellular carcinoma with extensive metastases. In our patient, the tumour was deemed incurable by resection, liver transplantation or percutaneous treatment. She underwent palliative chemotherapy and passed away 11 months following presentation.
Endovascular management of early-onset post-nephrectomy renal arteriovenous fistula: A report of two cases
Authors: Yin Henghui , Zhao Yang , Wang Mian , Wang Shenming , Chang Guangqi
Published: December 2015

Purpose:

Here, we report two cases of early-onset post-nephrectomy renal arteriovenous fistula who were successfully managed by implantation of patent ductus arteriosus occluders.

Case report:

Both patients were female, aged 38 and 36 years. They received left renal nephrectomy 9 and 6 months, respectively, with a complaint of chest congestion and dyspnea before admitting to our center. Computed tomographic angiography revealed a huge arteriovenous fistula of the left renal pedicle with a renal venous aneurysm in both patients. The fistulas were isolated by implanting patent ductus arteriosus occluders in the renal artery stumps. Clinical symptoms disappeared after intervention. Computed tomographic angiography confirmed the effectiveness of the occluders during follow-up time. The venous aneurysms shrank to normal size.

Conclusion:

Our experience indicates that post-nephrectomy renal arteriovenous fistula can present as an early complication which can be efficiently managed by endovascular occlusion of the arterial stump by patent ductus arteriosus occluder.
Conceptual obstacles to making use of four smoking-cessation strategies: What reasons do light smokers give for rejecting strategies?
Authors: Ryan Michael P , Hinojosa Jennifer J
Published: December 2015

Some smokers have safety and cost concerns about nicotine replacement therapy which discourage its use. We recruited 56 young adult light smokers to read detailed descriptions of a hybrid nicotine replacement therapy, a prescription drug treatment, scheduled reduced smoking, and a menu of self-help tactics. Participants listed five reasons smokers might reject each strategy. An emergent-category content analysis classified each response with a high degree of inter-rater reliability. Only one-third of 32 concerns were strategy-specific; the majority focused on the general difficulty of quitting. Most prevalent were “continued cravings,” “addiction too strong,” “takes too long,” and “won’t work.” These and other concerns reflect conceptual obstacles to be surmounted in smoking-cessation interventions.
Predicting optimal response to B-cell depletion with rituximab in multiple sclerosis using CXCL13 index, magnetic resonance imaging and clinical measures
Authors: Alvarez Enrique , Piccio Laura , Mikesell Robert J , Trinkaus Kathryn , Parks Becky J , Naismith Robert T , Cross Anne H
Published: December 2015

Background

B-cell depleting drugs show promise for treating multiple sclerosis.

Objective

We sought predictors of optimal response to rituximab, a B-cell depleting antibody, to help guide therapy selection.

Methods

We performed a post hoc study of 30 relapsing multiple sclerosis patients with breakthrough disease while on beta-interferon or glatiramer acetate who were treated with add-on rituximab. Standardized neurologic examinations, brain magnetic resonance imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid were obtained before and after rituximab. Tissue biomarkers were measured. Optimal responders were defined as having no evidence of disease activity.

Results

At baseline, optimal responders with no evidence of disease activity had higher IgG indices ( P = 0.041), and higher CXCL13 indices ((cerebrospinal fluid CXCL13/serum CXCL13)/albumin index; P = 0.024), more contrast enhancing lesions ( P = 0.002), better 25 foot timed walk ( P = 0.001), and Expanded Disability Status Scale ( P = 0.002). Rituximab treatment led to reduced cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of tissue destruction: myelin basic protein ( P = 0.046), neurofilament light chain ( P < 0.001), and of inflammation (CXCL13 index; P = 0.042).

Conclusions

Multiple sclerosis patients with optimal response to rituximab had higher cerebrospinal fluid IgG and CXCL13 indices, more gadolinium-enhancing lesions, and less disability at baseline. Rituximab treatment led to decreased markers of inflammation and tissue damage. If validated, these results will help identify multiple sclerosis patients who will respond optimally to B-cell depletion.
Factors Associated With Early Functional Outcome After Hip Fracture Surgery
Authors: Cohn Matthew R. , Cong Guang-Ting , Nwachukwu Benedict U. , Patt Minda L. , Desai Pingal , Zambrana Lester , Lane Joseph M.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Hip fractures are common in the elderly and are likely to become more prevalent as the US population ages. Early functional status is an indicator of longer term outcome, yet in-hospital predictors of functional recovery, particularly time of surgery and composition of support staff, after hip fracture surgery have not been well studied.

Methods:

Ninety-nine consecutive patients underwent hip fracture surgery by a single surgeon between 2009 and 2013. Surgery after 48 hours was deemed as surgical delay, and surgery after 5 pm was deemed as after hours. Surgical support staff experience was determined by experts from our institution as well as documented level of training. Functional status was determined by independent ambulation on postoperative day (POD) 3.

Results:

On POD3, 48 (79%) of 62 patients with no delay were able to ambulate, whereas only 14 (38%) of 37 patients with delayed surgery were able to ambulate ( P < .001). This relationship persisted when adjusted for American Society of Anesthesiologist classification. No delay in patients older than 80 (odds ratio [OR], 6.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.16-22.10) and females (OR, 7.05; 95% CI, 2.34-21.20) was associated with greater chance of early ambulation. After-hours surgery was not associated with ambulation ( P = .35). Anesthesiologist and circulating nurse experience had no impact on patient’s ambulatory status; however, nonorthopedic scrub technicians were associated with worse functional status (OR 7.50; 95% CI, 1.46-38.44, P = .01).

Conclusion:

Surgical delay and nonorthopedic scrub technicians are associated with worse early functional outcome after hip fracture surgery. Surgical delay should be avoided in older patients and women. More work should be done to understand the impact of surgical team composition on outcome.
Comparison of the Protective Effects of Melatonin and Silymarin Against Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Ghaznavi Habib , Mehrzadi Saeed , Dormanesh Banafshe , Tabatabaei Seyyed Mohammad Taghi Hosseini , Vahedi Habib , Hosseinzadeh Azam , Pazoki-Toroudi HamidReza , Rashidian Amir
Published: December 2015

This study compared the possible protective effects of silymarin and melatonin against gentamicin (GEN)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Rats were allocated to 6 groups: Group I, control group; Groups II and III, administered with silymarin or melatonin; Group IV, injected with GEN; and Groups V and VI, administered with silymarin or melatonin, and then injected with GEN. Compared with the rats in the control group, all rats injected with GEN significantly presented elevated levels of serum creatinine and urea that was accompanied by an increase in relative kidney weight, increase in renal reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and reduction in renal glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Silymarin and melatonin pretreatment significantly lowered the elevated serum urea and creatinine concentration, kidney weight, and renal ROS and MDA levels. In addition, silymarin and melatonin significantly enhanced renal GSH level and SOD activity. This study indicates that silymarin and melatonin can attenuate renal injury in rats treated with GEN possibly by reducing the ROS level.
The Application of Far-Infrared in the Treatment of Wound Healing
Authors: Lin Yu-Hsin , Li Tzong-Shiun
Published: December 2015

Far-infrared (FIR) radiation therapy has been used for soothing effect in wound treatment. Studies have shown that FIR could enhance wound healing processes in rat models. Although these research results supported that FIR may play an important for wound healing, it had no consensus in clinical practices. It is suggested that more persuasive systemic clinical researches are needed to explore the effectiveness of FIR therapy for wound healing.
Live imaging of osteoclast inhibition by bisphosphonates in a medaka osteoporosis model
Authors: Yu Tingsheng , Witten Paul Eckhard , Huysseune Ann , Buettner Anita , To Thuy Thanh , Winkler Christoph
Published: December 2015

Osteoclasts are bone resorbing cells derived from the monocyte/macrophage lineage. Excess osteoclast activity leads to reduced bone mineral density, a hallmark of diseases such as osteoporosis. Processes regulating osteoclast activity are therefore targeted in current osteoporosis therapies. To identify and characterize drugs for treatment of bone diseases, suitable in vivo models are needed to complement cell culture assays. We have earlier reported transgenic medaka lines expressing the osteoclast-inducing factor Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor kB ligand (Rankl) under control of a heat shock-inducible promoter. Forced Rankl expression resulted in ectopic osteoclast formation, as visualized by live imaging in fluorescent reporter lines. This led to increased bone resorption and a dramatic reduction of mineralized matrix similar to the situation in osteoporosis patients. In an attempt to establish the medaka as in vivo model for osteoporosis drug screening, we treated Rankl expressing larvae with Etidronate and Alendronate, two bisphosphonates commonly used in human osteoporosis therapy. Using live imaging, we observed an efficient, dose-dependent inhibition of osteoclast activity, which resulted in the maintenance of bone integrity despite an excess of osteoclast formation. Strikingly, we also found that bone recovery was efficiently promoted after inhibition of osteoclast activity and that osteoblast distribution was altered suggesting effects on osteoblast-osteoclast coupling. Our data show that transgenic medaka lines are suitable in vivo models for the characterization of anti-resorptive or bone anabolic compounds by live imaging, and for screening of novel osteoporosis drugs.
Generation of brain tumours by Cre-mediated recombination of neural progenitorsin situwith the tamoxifen metabolite endoxifen
Authors: Benedykcinska Anna , Ferreira Andreia , Lau Joanne , Broni Jessica , Richard-Loendt Angela , Henriquez Nico V. , Brandner Sebastian
Published: December 2015

Targeted cell- or region-specific gene recombination is widely used in the functional analysis of genes implicated in development and disease. In the brain, targeted gene recombination has become a mainstream approach to study neurodegeneration or tumourigenesis. The use of the Cre-loxP system to study tumourigenesis in the adult CNS can be limited, when the promoter (such as GFAP) is also transiently expressed during development, which can result in the recombination of progenies of different lineages. Engineering of transgenic mice expressing Cre recombinase fused to a mutant of the human oestrogen receptor (ER) allows the circumvention of transient developmental Cre expression by inducing recombination in the adult organism. The recombination of loxP sequences occurs only in the presence of tamoxifen. Systemic administration of tamoxifen can, however, exhibit toxicity and may also recombine unwanted cell populations where the promoter driving Cre expression is active at the time of tamoxifen administration. Here, we report that a single site-specific injection of an active derivative of tamoxifen successfully activates Cre recombinase and selectively recombines tumour suppressor genes in neural progenitor cells of the subventricular zone and we demonstrate its application in a model for the generation of intrinsic brain tumours.
Autocommunication as a Special Type of Communicative Situation, Its Attributes and Realization in the Literary Text (Based on the Novels of A.S. Pushkin, L.N. Tolstoy)
Authors: Шутая  , Shutaya Natalya
Published: December 2015

Expressive means of auto-communication as a special type of communication

situation in a literary text are reviewed in the article. By developing theoretical

principles of the Yu. M. Lotman about autocommunication, author explains

the necessity of initiating event and special temporal characteristics of the

microenvironment for autocommunication situation activation.
Psycholinguistic Understanding of the Connotative Aspect of a Word
Authors: Матюшина  , Matyushina V.
Published: December 2015

The problem under consideration in the article regards the interrelation between

the concept of connotation if we speak in terms of traditional linguistics

and the so called personal meaning – a term which is referred to

the conceptual framework of psycholinguistics. Though a special stress is

made on the fact that while comparing both concepts, there is a lot in common

between them in their interpretation and understanding. Connotation

is understood as a personal judgement of the meaning containing a special

evaluative part. The emotional impression of a word generates a certain

perception of it by an individual. The emotional effect from the perception of

an object is embodied in the meaning as a personal attitude to it. Personal

meaning is considered to be a personal attitude of an individual to a real

thing and this very personal emotionally coloured attitude assigns a specific

meaning to the thing. Any general word meaning adopted by an individual

undergoing the influence of his or her system of values, prescriptions and

interests acquires that very personal meaning which determines the attitude

of an individual to reality. The essence of the fundamental psychological

theory of word meaning created by A.N.Leontiev is revealed. Leontiev understood

human conscience as a certain system consisting of the following

parts: meaning, personal meaning and sensitive substance. The meaning

is perceived as an integrated reflection of reality and personal meaning defines

and shows the attitude of an individual to reality. Personal meaning

is manifested itself in the emotional marking and evaluating of this or that

object. An attempt is made to prove, that connotation and personal meaning

are different terms for one and the same concept which is known as the

emotional evaluation of a real thing produced by human conscience. In the

course of the latter process an additional gradation to the meaning of a word

is introduced. One of the basic methods of psycholinguistics is described

– that of the method of semantic differential which gives an opportunity to

measure the connotative aspect of a word meaning.
The Main Dynamic Processes Taking Place Within Terminological Systems (on the Example of the English Terminological System of Digital Photography)
Authors: Асадова  , Asadova A.
Published: December 2015

Digital photography terminology system is an open and quite actively developing

system that is shown in the variety of terminological units and means

of their formation. In general, the English digital photography terminology

can be characterized as dynamical one. The article is devoted to the study

of main dynamical processes taking place in the English digital photography

terminology system. Special attention is paid to the processes of terminologization,

determinologization, terminological borrowings, reterminologization

and transterminologization. There is a constant exchange between the

general and terminological lexis, as a result of which determinologization

of special lexis, terminologization of the general lexis and transterminologization

happen. As a result of reterminologization and transterminologizationterminological

units with the identical forms, but different meanings

appear in variousscientific-technical terminology systems. These processes

are mainly responsible for the replenishment and renewal of terminological

lexis, including the sphere of digital photography of the modern English

language.
Spiritual Foundations of Islam and Orthodoxy Art. Origins and Present
Authors: Маликов  , Malikov B.
Published: December 2015

In article considered the spiritual foundations of the Islamic and Orthodox

art, their symbolic nature, the meaning, the influence of religious canons on

the artistic depiction and notes the importance of the sacred value of the

basic traditions of religious art in the modern world.
Realization of Functional-Semantic Principle of Fixed Verb Collocations in Students Preparation for RUSE (Russian Unified State Exam) and German Language European Exams
Authors: Шмаль  , Shmal Meri , Феклистова  , Feklistova L.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents the research results of problems connected with using

fixed verb collocations in several styles and aspects of Modern German

Language, practical justification of functional categorization of marked

verbal units is given, as also different forms of work with these verbal units

come under good overview in the process of communication and formation

of the foreign communicative competence in preparation for RUSE and

European Exams.
The Course of Journalism in the System of Additional Education Is a Way of Building Communication Platforms and Socio-Cultural Integration of Pupils. Pedagogical Methods and Technologies
Authors: Конашенкова  , Konashenkova N.
Published: December 2015

The article examines the possibility of building communication platform in

adolescents by practicing journalism. The article proves that such classes

can become an effective method of social and cultural integration of pupils.

It specifies the most suitable methods and educational technologies.
Neuropsychological Approach to the Correction of Speech Disorders in Children
Authors: Пунина  , Punina Yu.
Published: December 2015

The article outlines neuropsychological features of speech development,

discusses possible causes of speech disorders and delayed speech development,

lists diagnostic criteria of neuropsychological testing for speech

development issues, and presents a structure neuropsychological correction

in treatment of speech underdevelopment.
The Role of a Picture in the Development of the Preschool-Age Children’s Coherent Speech with the General Speech Underdevelopment of the Third Level
Authors: Янутан  , Yanutan V.
Published: December 2015

The Coherent speech is very important for psychogeny and for the development

of a child’s self-comprehension. It contributes to the better developing

of the important personal qualities. Also the usage of the pictures also

contributes to the better development of the coherent speech during the

correctional work.
Auto-Intertext of the Novel of Ivan Turgenev «Stuchit»
Authors: Бобылев  , Bobylev B.
Published: December 2015

In this article B. Bobylev analyses the intertextual relations of the novel of

Ivan Turgenev “Stuchit” (Knocks) with other stories of the writer. It defines

the place of the story in a series of “A Sportsman’s sketches” and the whole

work of the writer in general. The article identifies key themes and symbols

that define the specifics of the worldview of the author. It affirms the idea of

a deep connection of the Turgenev’s image of knocking with the search for

meaning, the mystery of human’s existence. It also covers the role mythopoetic

tradition in the creation of a system of verbal images of the story and

in the development of the idea of parallel existence of the earthly world with

the other world. The article studies verbal and non-verbal behavior of the

characters, assesses the relationship of peasants and landowners within

the theory of ego states of Eric Berne.
DEVELOPMENT OF METHODS FOR THE SYNTHESIS OF NEW HET-EROCYCLIC COMPOUNDS, PROMISING TO CREATE A DRUG FOR THE TREATMENT OF SOCIALLY SIGNIFICANT DISEASES
Authors: Столповская  , Stolpovskaya N. , Перегудова  , Peregudova A. , Шихалиев  , Shikhaliev Kh.
Published: December 2015

Studied cyclization N-aryl biguanides (ketones and keto esters) installed chemoselectivity of this process. An approach to syn tezu new heterocyclic sys-tem 2-amino-1,4-dihydro-pyrimido [1,2-a] [1,3,5] triazin-6-ones. Investigated methods of synthesis AZAG-terotsiklicheskih systems: 1,3,5-triazine, pyrimidine, dihydropyrimidine-6-ones based on N-arilbiguanidov.
METHODS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF HUMAN IMPACT ON SOIL ROADSIDE TERRITORIES WITH THE FLOW OF LOGGING TRUCKS
Authors: Сушков  , Sushkov Oleg
Published: December 2015

This article discusses the method of determining the contamination of soil and snow cover roadside areas susceptible to significant chemical stress generat-ed due to tire wear and brake pads asphalt pavement the use of anti-icing materi-als and so forth.

The technique of determining and calculating concentrations of pollutants with the aim of forecasting processes for the allocation of their concentrations with increasing distance from the edge of the carriageway .
INFLUENCE GRAIN SIZE AND CONTACT TEMPERATURE ON THE TRIBOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ALLOY Ti49,3Ni50,7
Authors: Столяров  , Stolyarov V , Шустер  , Shuster L , Чертовских  , Chertovskikh S , Мисоченко  , Misochenko A
Published: December 2015

The results of experimental studies of the effect of grinding structure, the con-tact temperature and the load on the tribological characteristics of the alloy with shape memory Ti49,7Ni50,3 obtained by rolling with a pulse current and subsequent annealing at different temperatures.
INNOVATIVE WAYS PHYSICOTECHNICAL PROCESSING
Authors: Козлов  , Kozlov V , Тришина  , Trishina Tatyana
Published: December 2015

The article analyzes the technologies and equipment for the recovery disc coulter drills John Deere 455. The theoretical analysis of known schemes sharp-ening led to the conclusion that the most effective is the scheme of the symmetric arrangement of the axis of the rotating electrode.
DEVELOPMENT OF MEMBRANE SENSORS BASED ON NEW HYBRID MATERIALS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF SULFUR AND MEDICI-NAL SUBSTANCES IN DOMESTIC AND INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENTS
Authors: Бобрешова  , Bobreshova O , Денисова  , Denisova T , Паршина  , Parshina A
Published: December 2015

Developed potentiometric PD sensors with new hybrid materials based on perfluorinated sulfokationoobmennyh mem-branes Nafion and MF 4SK contain-ing nanoparticles of hydrated metal oxide (including a functionalized surface) to quant-tively determination of sulfur compounds and is widely used in medical practice, local anesthetic agents (procaine, lidoka-in) in multicomponent aqueous media. Using sensors in the similarity-tion of composite materials can significant-ly increase their Chuv-tivity to define the components that helps to increase the accuracy of determination.. Easy to use, no sample preparation, automatic pro-cessing of data portability obespe Chiva-low labor intensity analysis, which makes available to develop mye-touch devices for a wide range of control organi-zation-tions and services for environmental monitoring of water flows of medical institutions and industrial enterprises.
ASSESSMENT OF POLLUTION OF THE TERRITORY AGROENGI-NEERING FACULTY ELECTRIC FIELDS
Authors: Попов  , Popov N , Писарев  , Pisarev V
Published: December 2015

Results of measurements of electric fields in the territory of agroengineering faculty of higher education institution near a power line of 110 kV and trans-former substations are given.
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Яковлев  , Yakovlev D.
Published: December 2015

In article features of designs of steering managements and suspension brackets of forest cars from the point of view of oscillatory systems are consid-ered. This analysis is necessary for development of the concept of mathematical model of oscillatory system.
ON IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF TRAINING AND RETRAINING DRIVERS
Authors: Артемов  , Artemov A , Климова  , Klimova G. , Стеганцев  , Stegantsev A
Published: December 2015

This article discusses ways to improve the professional skills of the driv-ers, using the commissioning of training classes in driving schools.
JUSTIFICATION OF THE METHOD OF SEPARATING THE NEEDLES GREEN WOOD BY TREATING IT IN A MICROWAVE FIELD
Authors: Посметьев  , Posmetev Valeriy
Published: December 2015

The methods of separation needles green wood. Evaluated the use of technology of the microwave field in the preparation of wood greens.
The role of the MS clinical nurse specialist in the management of disease-modifying drugs
Authors: Sanchez Miguel Angel Robles , Porter Bernadette
Published: December 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system with an autoimmune inflammatory basis that presents with clinical variability and progressive disability. The most common type of MS presents with a relapsing remitting pattern and affects 85% of patients from onset. Relapses are characterised by acute new episodes of inflammation that can cause a neurological deficit followed by a period of recovery and remission. Patients may not make a full recovery from a relapse and may be left with ongoing ‘background’ symptoms that require symptom management. Disease-modifying drugs are used to reduce this disease activity. Specialist nurses involved in disease-modifying drug management pathways play a pivotal role in supporting people with MS to learn how to direct their priorities, plan activities, and choose their health care treatment preferences. MS nurses are well placed to engage people with MS and their family to navigate the complex decision-making process, offering support and education.
A review of novel oral anticoagulants in the prevention of stroke for non-valvular atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mason Georgina , Millington Sam , Kee Yi-Yen Karen
Published: December 2015

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia that increases the risk of stroke due to intra-cardiac thrombus formation. For decades the mainstay of oral anticoagulation therapy, to reduce stroke risk in AF, has been warfarin; but over the last 5 years there have been advances in pharmacological therapies with the development of novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs). In 2012, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) approved the use of the following NOACs; dabigatran, rivaroxaban and apixaban in the prevention of stroke in AF. More recently, it has also approved the use of edoxaban as another alternative anticoagulant to warfarin. The use of NOACs for stroke prevention in AF is now becoming commonplace and therefore it is important to not only recognise these agents but understand their indications, contra-indications, complications and limitations. This article reviews the clinical evidence that supports the use of NOACs as well as discussing these advantages and disadvantages.
Patients and relatives must be consulted before a do not attempt resuscitation (DNAR) decision is made
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: December 2015

In this article Richard Griffith sets out the steps nurses must take to ensure that do not attempt resuscitation notices placed on the files of their patients are lawful.
Research Roundup
Authors: Dunkley Steven
Published: December 2015

Steven Dunkley provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles of interest to neuroscience nurses, highlighting the key points to keep you up to date. A full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail.
Funding formula needs to be flexible
Authors: Merrick Beatrice , Tanuku Purnima , Sue
Published: December 2015

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
Schemas: Free flow play
Authors: Siraj-Blatchford John , Brock Lynnette
Published: December 2015

This is the first of a three-part series that aims to put the schema back into ‘Schema Theory and Practice’; here we provide a summary account of the cognitive processes of learning and why free flow play works.
A responsible challenge
Authors: Tubb Jane
Published: December 2015

How should you support newly qualified practitioners in your setting and how do you ensure all staff progress in their professional development, while also becoming role-models for the next generation?
Building and extending
Authors: Gouldsboro Julia
Published: December 2015

Sustained shared thinking has been shown to be effective in improving outcomes for children. But how can we, as practitioners, use it to support active learning, play and exploring, and thinking critically
Whenever will they read
Authors: Leon Lucy Rodriguez
Published: December 2015

When it comes to learning to read, policy, curriculum, pedagogical knowledge, and public opinion, are often at odds, and practitioners are left trying to please everyone while doing what is right for children.
Children in the middle
Authors: Kerslake Amy
Published: December 2015

Do middleborn children really deserve their long-standing reputation for displaying challenging behaviour, or is this a myth used to sell books? One graduate decided to research the stereotypes.
Strategies for achieving your Early Years Teacher Status
Authors: Abrahamson Leonie
Published: December 2015

Becoming an Early Years Teacher can be both a career and life changing experience. If you take time to look ahead and prepare, you will be better equipped to manage the demands and enjoy the process.
Every penny must reach providers
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: December 2015

£300 million of additional funding was announced in the Spending Review, and the new hourly rate paid to local authorities will be increased, but scratch the surface and the pennies start to be eroded.
All policy roads lead to ratios
Authors: Leitch Neil
Published: December 2015

Recently, there has been far more effort from the government, in trying to underpin policy with some actual research, than has been the case in the past, but still there is a gap in understanding childcare.
Expansion must benefit profession
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: December 2015

It appears from the recent announcements and from the models of business and delivery suggested that, despite government rhetoric, quantity has become the priority when, to the sector, quality is key.
What we can learn from… Houses and Homes!
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: December 2015

This month, our focus shifts to a topic that all children will be familiar with, houses and homes. How have they changed over time, what happens in each room… the activities are endless.
Putting words together
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: December 2015

This is the third in a series of articles that has been following one child's individual journey toward the complex skills of making meaning out of sounds and expressions, that will form the basis of early words.
Now, read all about it
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: December 2015

Children will be aware of the printed word in books, but they will also be aware of their parent's newspapers, free local papers and school newsletters, so why not ask them to produce their own?
To err is human, after all
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: December 2015

Many children think that perfection is the holy grail of learning, but this view needs to be challenged if we are to nurture key competencies, such as reflection, imagination, courage, resilience and curiosity.
Yoga in the early years
Authors: Pandit Kalpana
Published: December 2015

Introducing yoga asanas to young children at an early age, through playful activities, is a great way to boost healthy living, helping them to become calmer and better able to concentrate and focus.
Researching the lived experiences of cancer patients with malignant fungating wounds
Authors: Rowan Sara , Moffatt Christine , Olden Anthony
Published: December 2015

Background:

Researching the experiences of terminally ill patients with disfiguring wounds is likely to be a challenge anywhere, and this investigation came face-to-face with different attitudes on the part of both patients and nurses and doctors in England (the South-East) and Italy (Tuscany).

Aim:

To highlight the complexity of researching sensitive subjects and the difficulties encountered from the perspective of the researcher(s).

Methods:

Some 14 patients were interviewed. In England access was relatively straightforward, with nurses linked to the hospice doing most of the recruitment. Access was more difficult in Italy, with some doctors expressing opposition.

Discussion:

How ethical is it to treat dying patients as subjects for research? How does research of this kind vary from one culture to another?

Conclusions:

Interviewees can find it therapeutic to talk about their experiences to a sympathetic listener—although the listening does pose a considerable strain on the researcher.
Rapid discharge from hospital in the last days of life: an evaluation of key issues and the discharge sister role
Authors: Jones Susan , Hamilton Sharon , Nicholson Alex
Published: December 2015

Background:

When the time comes, most people wish to die at home. Nevertheless, many deaths occur in hospital, often because of delays in the discharge process. This study explored the issues surrounding rapid discharge from hospital in the final days of life, and evaluated the contribution of a discharge sister role.

Methods:

A qualitative design was used, incorporating focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders. A total of 75 staff and 7 carers participated.

Results:

Participants highlighted the small window of opportunity available to facilitate a rapid but safe discharge from hospital. Early recognition of the last days of life was vital as was the availability of a skilled health professional, such as the discharge sister, to coordinate the patient's journey from hospital to preferred place of death.

Conclusions:

Rapid discharge is challenging and requires high levels of skill. The discharge sister navigated complex organisational systems to facilitate rapid discharge for those who might otherwise have died in hospital.
Findings from a Clinical Learning Needs Survey at Ireland's first children's hospice
Authors: Quinn Claire , Hillis Rowan
Published: December 2015

Purpose:

Caring for children with life-limiting conditions places exceptional demands on health professionals. Staff require the optimal skills and expertise necessary to provide the highest quality of care and to achieve this it is essential to understand their learning requirements.

Aim:

The aim is to share the main findings from a Clinical Learning Needs Survey conducted at LauraLynn, currently Ireland's only children's hospice. To date no other Irish service has conducted a formal identification of professional learning and development needs specific to the Irish context. The findings from the study assist workforce planning by providing a glimpse into the immediate study needs of staff working in a children's palliative care setting. The study had two main aims: a) Assist clinical staff within one organisation to identify their own professional learning priorities in children's palliative care and b) Inform the design and delivery of a responsive suite of workshops, programmes and study sessions for children's palliative care.

Results:

The study identified the key learning needs as end-of-life care, palliative emergencies, communication skill development and bereavement support.

Conclusion:

These findings are similar to those found internationally and demonstrate the commitment of a new organisation to ensure that specific employee learning requirements are met if the organisation and wider specialty of Irish children's palliative care is to continue its evolution.
Research roundup
Authors: Costello John
Published: December 2015

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care.
Caracterização citogenética de Encyclia caximboensis (Orchidaceae) cultivadas in vitro
Authors: Silva Gizelly Mendes , Varella Tatiane Lemos , Cruz Kaliane Maximiliano , Carvalho Ilio Fealho , Karsburg Isane Vera , Silva Maurecilne Lemes
Published: December 2015

Encyclia caximboensis is an Amazonian species endemic to the Serra do Cachimbo, which is located between the northern of the Mato Grosso state and the southern part of Para state. Studies reporting in vitro cultivation and cytogenetic characterization of this species are still scarce. Therefore, the objective of this work was to determine the cytogenetic characteristics and to identify the nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) of the species E. Caximboensis, cultivated in vitro. Seeds of E. caximboensis were disinfected using a syringe and subsequently cultivated in MS medium without growth regulators. The germination started after 20 days of culture, with the development of protocorm and 40,500 seedlings were obtained after 90 days of culture. To perform the cytogenetic characterization, root tips of 180-day-old seedlings were submitted to blocking treatment using 3 µM trifiuralin and then fixed in methanol-acetic acid solution, 3:1 (v/v). The meristems were submitted to enzymatic digestion, fixed in methanol-acetic acid solution, 3:1 (v/v) and the slides were stained using 5% Giemsa solution. Ag-NOR banding was carried out on 20-day-old slides by incubation in 50% silver nitrate solution (AgNO3) for 19 hours. The results indicated that E. caximboensis has 2n=2x=24 with all metacentric type chromosomes, ranging from 1.88 to 0.66 pm in length, with simple NORs in small blocks localized in the proximal region of the third chromosome pair. 
Crescimento e desenvolvimento de Hemerocallis fulva submetidos a doses de nitrogênio e fósforo
Authors: Perez Matheus da Silva Francimar , Giacon Graziane Maria , Schultz Soares Jackeline , Brito Chaim Jardim Rosa Yara , Brito Chaim Jardim Rosa Derek , Soares Rosa Lemes Camila , Targanski Sajovic Pereira Suzana , Santos Gutierrez Robson
Published: December 2015

The objective was to evaluate the effect of different doses of nitrogen and phosphorus on growth and development of Hemerocallis fulva variety Flore Full, herbaceous perennial widely used in landscaping. The experimental design was randomized blocks with 25 treatments, arranged in a factorial 5 x 5 (0; 75; 150; 225 and 300 kg ha-1 N and 0, 100, 200, 300 and 400 kg ha-1 P), with 4 replicates. The phosphorus fertilization was carried out 15 days after planting (DAP) and nitrogen was applied in coverage divided in three equal applications at 15, 120 and 240 DAP. There were evaluated the plant height, number of tillers per plant, soil coverage area, the fresh mass of plant, root system and shoot; and the dry mass of plant, root system and aerial part, and calculated the ratio of root dry mass and plant dry mass. It was also obtained the nutrient content of the leaf tissue and root system. The highest tillering was gained with the use of 150 kg ha-1 N combined with 400 kg ha-1 of P. Intermediate doses of N (75-170 kg ha-1 of N) showed higher production of plant fresh and dry mass and root dry mass. Doses of N and P influenced the N and P content in plant tissues of roots and leaves of Hemerocallis. Plants fertilized with 300 kg ha-1 of N and 273 kg ha -1 of P lead to the highest levels of N in the leaves and doses of 80 kg ha-1 of N and 68 kg ha-1 P, the highest content of P in the leaves of H. fulva. Already, in the roots, the highest N content was obtained with application of 300 kg ha-1 N in the presence of P and doses of 225 kg N ha-1 combined with 300 ha-1 P provided the highest P content in the roots.
Multilevel analysis of the effects of leardership styles, decision making strategies and personality on decision-making process in schools
Liderlik stilleri, karar verme stratejileri ve kişiliğin okullardaki karar sürecine etkilerinin çok düzeyli analizi
Authors: Güçlü Nezahat , Özer Arif , Kurt Türker , Koşar Serkan
Published: December 2015

This study aims to identify factors that are effective on decision making at school, to analyse how these processes occur, to investigate whether decision making processes differ from school to school; and to demonstrate whether decision making processes at schools are associated with personality, decision making strategies and principals’ leadership. The research was conducted during 2012-2013 academic year in central districts of Ankara. It covered a total number of 473 participants (22 principals and 449 teachers), who work in 24 different elementary schools. In order to collect necessary data for the research, Adjective Based Personality Scale (Bacanlı, İlhan and Aslan, 2009), Leadership Styles Scale (Çuhadaroğlu, 2008) and Decision-Making Questionnaire at School and Decision Making Process Questionnaire at School, which were developed by the authors, were employed in this study. In analysing the data, two-level hierarchical linear model technique was used. According to the research findings, the most important factors in decision making at schools are deputy principals, senior education managers and teachers. The least effective ones are citizens that are not custodians for students, non-educative personnel at school and representatives of non-governmental organisations.

 

Özet

Bu çalışmada, okullarda karar verme sürecinde etkili olan faktörlerin neler olduğu, okulda karar süreçlerinin nasıl gerçekleştiği, karar verme süreçlerinin okullara göre farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığı ve okullardaki karar verme süreçlerinin kişilik, karar verme stratejileri ve okul müdürünün liderliği ile ilişkili olup olmadığının ortaya konulması amaçlanmaktadır. Araştırma, 2012-2013 eğitim ve öğretim yılında, Ankara ili merkez ilçelerindeki 24 ilköğretim okulunda görev yapan 22 okul müdürü ve 449 öğretmen olmak üzere toplam 473 katılımcı ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırma için gerekli verilerin toplanması amacıyla Sıfatlara Dayalı Kişilik Testi (Bacanlı, İlhan ve Aslan, 2009) ve Liderlik Stilleri Ölçeği (Çuhadaroğlu, 2008) ve araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen Okulda Karar Alma Anketi ve Okulda Karar Alma Süreci Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Verilerin analizinde iki düzeyli hiyerarşik doğrusal model tekniği kullanılmıştır. Araştırma  sonuçlarına göre, okullarda karar alımında en etkili olan faktörler müdür yardımcıları, üst düzey eğitim yöneticileri ve öğretmenlerdir. En az etkili olanlar ise öğrenci velisi olmayan vatandaşlar, okuldaki eğitici olmayan personel ve sivil toplum kuruluşu temsilcileridir.
Who lives in our dishwasher? Preliminar results of fungal metagenomic analysis of household dishwashers
Authors: KOREN Simon , KOVAČ Minka , TOPLAK Nataša
Published: December 2015

In the last few years the advances in molecular biological methods, especially the development of next generation sequencing, have drastically changed and improved our view of microbial world. Progress in new molecular techniques enables us to overcome potential disadvantages of traditional microbiological techniques in fungal community identifications. It also enables us to evaluate the richness of fungal populations more efficiently and reliably. In the present study, we used the Ion Torrent PGM next generation sequencing platform to analyse fungi present in ordinary household dishwashers. The identification was based on massive parallel sequencing of the D2 LSU rRNA amplicon. The analysis revealed rich and diverse fungal communities present in our dishwashers. Interpretation of the results was based on previously published research by Zalar et al. (2011). The results of our study confirmed that the new technology in many ways surpasses classical methods used in fungal analysis by offering quicker, reliable, more sensitive and inexpensive high-throughput identification of microorganisms in entire communities.
Micro RNA research in cattle, pig, sheep, and chicken
Authors: POGOREVC Neža , ZORC Minja , KUNEJ Tanja
Published: December 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play key roles in regulating gene expression. Polymorphisms in miRNA precursors, target genes or within components of silencing machinery contribute significantly to the phenotypic diversity in animals. Due to this role miRNAs became the subject of increased research interest in association with production traits in livestock. In this article we presented examples of associations between miRNA genes and phenotypes of four livestock species: cattle, pig, sheep, and chicken. Most miRNA research studies are focused on their functioning in muscle, adipose tissues, gonads, fetal development and immune system. MicroRNA functions also impact animal productivity and consequently economic success of farming. With understanding miRNA functions in various biological pathways it is possible to develop new strategies for improving the productivity of livestock.