bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusive Teaching in Rural Schools: Expanding on Tradition
Authors: Harriman Nancy
Published: April 2017

Rural schools and the communities they serve are experiencing significant socioeconomic and demographic changes, resulting in an increasing diversity of needs. The author of this article identifies five principles and accompanying examples of strategies educators in rural schools can implement to strengthen their capacity for effectively teaching of all students within their community. Pedagogy of place and culturally responsive teaching are examples of inclusive teaching approaches that require collaboration with students, their families, and the broader community.
Regional Comprehensive System of Personnel Development Council Activity in Big Sky Country
Authors: Fishbaugh Mary Susan E. , Christensen Linda , Rude Harvey , Bailey-Anderson Susan
Published: April 2017

The Montana Office of Public Instruction, Special Education Division, initiated its state Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD) Council 15 years ago in compliance with Public Law 94–142, The Education of All Handicapped Children Act. The state council has remained active and has become stronger from its beginning to the present time. Because of the large geography of the state and diversity of needs across the state, however, the state council was somewhat limited and fragmented in meeting personnel development needs. Consequently, the state council implemented a CSPD regionalization concept based on the five existing Developmental Disabilities Planning and Advisory Council (DDPAC) and Montana Council of Administrators of Special Education (MCASE) regions. The purpose of this article is to report on strategies and activities of regional CSPD actions in Montana. The regional model holds promise for replication as a framework of personnel development in other large rural states. This information is represented within the context of the recently enacted amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act through the provisions of Public Law 105–17.
Resolving Conflicts in Rural Schools
Authors: Kelker Katharin A.
Published: April 2017

Small rural schools once thought themselves immune from serious conflict, but these once tranquil environments now find themselves dealing with more diverse student bodies, conflicts in values, and social and economic changes. It is no longer possible to assume that a rural school will have a sense of community—an underlying foundation of shared values and a sense of belonging. Without this shared set of values, conflicts are more difficult to resolve when they arise. More than ever, schools need to make a conscious effort to teach problem-solving and negotiation skills that build a framework for cooperation and the cultivation of mutual respect. Educators themselves must be prepared to resolve conflicts that arise for them with their colleagues and with parents and students. If teachers feel well prepared to handle conflict, they can be effective in modeling this behavior for their students. Master of interpersonal skills—communication, collaborative planning, and emotional “banking”—can keep conflicts within bounds and dialogue focused on problem-solving rather than blaming. When educators have the tools to manage conflict, they can model problem-solving and negotiation skills for their students. Then conflict resolution becomes a way to reestablish effective cooperation an provide opportunities for the creativity, excitement, and energy that come from the exploration of differences among ideas and values.
Rural General Education Teachers' Opinions of Adaptations for Inclusive Classrooms: A Renewed Call for Dual Licensure
Authors: Bryant Renee , Dean Michael , Elrod G. Franklin , Blackbourn J. M.
Published: April 2017

The process of including students with learning disabilities (LD) into general education classes has afforded these children the opportunity to learn alongside their same-age peers. Often, LD students require accommodations and/or modifications in order to succeed in the general education setting. General education teachers must provide these students with the accommodations/modifications that are recommended on each child's individualized education plan. The current study examined rural teachers' attitudes toward accommodations/modifications in their classrooms. Three questions were asked: 1) How effective are the recommended/implemented accommodations/modifications?, 2) How fair are the recommended/implemented accommodations/modifications to use in the general education classroom?, and 3) How efficient are the recommended/implemented accommodations/modifications to use in the general class setting? The results of this study revealed that rural general education teachers favored accommodations/modifications that are less intrusive to their day-to-day teaching procedures, take the least amount of time to implement, and separate less the learning disabled from non-disabled students.
Inclusion in Rural School Districts: Where is the Superintendent?
Authors: Hooper H. H. (Buddy) , Pankake Anita , Schroth Gwen
Published: April 2017

Ordinarily, one would assume that rural school superintendents provide leadership to all the district's programs. Results from a study investigating the implementation of inclusion in Texas rural schools raises some question regarding this assumption. This article provides an overview of the study, findings, conclusions, and recommended actions for facilitating the superintendents' leadership role in implementing inclusive practices.
Keeping Qualified Special Educators under the Big Sky
Authors: Fishbaugh Mary Susan E. , Christensen Linda , Burdge Jolene
Published: April 2017

The Montana Office of Public Instruction Special Education Endorsement Project is an alternative certification program for special educators. Begun in 1988 by the Montana Comprehensive System of Personnel Development Council in answer to severe personnel shortages in rural schools, the project has continued to serve the needs of students with disabilities in the rural areas of the state. Similar to alternative certification programs in other states in many ways, the Montana project is strengthened by collaboration among the state's institutions of higher education and through two years of mentoring. An initial evaluation attempt in 1993 demonstrated the project's value to rural schools, and a follow-up study in 1997 demonstrated continued project viability. This article briefly describes the project, reports evaluation results, and suggests future project directions.
Collaborative Teacher Education in Off-Campus Rural Communities
Authors: Knapczyk Dennis , Rodes Paul , Chung Haejin , Chapman Carrie
Published: April 2017

For the past 13 years, the Collaborative Teacher Education Program (CTEP) has been using distance education to provide coursework in special education in several rural communities in Indiana. The challenge this program has addressed is offering high quality and comprehensive teacher preparation using the technology and resources that are available in rural communities. This article gives an overview of the program, and it provides guidelines for using distance education and for selecting communication technologies.
Continuous blockade of CXCR4 results in dramatic mobilization and expansion of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Karpova Darja , Ritchey Julie K. , Holt Matthew S. , Abou-Ezzi Grazia , Monlish Darlene , Batoon Lena , Millard Susan , Spohn Gabriele , Wiercinska Eliza , Chendamarai Ezhil , Yang Wei , Christ Stephanie , Gehrs Leah , Schuettpelz Laura G. , Dembowsky Klaus , Pettit Allison R. , Rettig Michael P. , Bonig Halvard , DiPersio John F.
Published: April 2017

Key Points

Prolonged inhibition of CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling results in exceptional mobilization along with an expansion of the BM HSPC pool. Reversible inhibition of the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis may represent a novel strategy to restore damaged BM.
Response and progression on midostaurin in advanced systemic mastocytosis: KIT D816V and other molecular markers
Authors: Jawhar Mohamad , Schwaab Juliana , Naumann Nicole , Horny Hans-Peter , Sotlar Karl , Haferlach Torsten , Metzgeroth Georgia , Fabarius Alice , Valent Peter , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Cross Nicholas C. P. , Meggendorfer Manja , Reiter Andreas
Published: April 2017

Key Points

The complexity and dynamics of mutations significantly impact on response, progression, and prognosis in midostaurin-treated advSM patients.
Gaps in Incorporating Germline Genetic Testing Into Treatment Decision-Making for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Kurian Allison W. , Li Yun , Hamilton Ann S. , Ward Kevin C. , Hawley Sarah T. , Morrow Monica , McLeod M. Chandler , Jagsi Reshma , Katz Steven J.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Genetic testing for breast cancer risk is evolving rapidly, with growing use of multiple-gene panels that can yield uncertain results. However, little is known about the context of such testing or its impact on treatment.

Methods

A population-based sample of patients with breast cancer diagnosed in 2014 to 2015 and identified by two SEER registries (Georgia and Los Angeles) were surveyed about genetic testing experiences (N = 3,672; response rate, 68%). Responses were merged with SEER data. A patient subgroup at higher pretest risk of pathogenic mutation carriage was defined according to genetic testing guidelines. Patients’ attending surgeons were surveyed about genetic testing and results management. We examined patterns and correlates of genetic counseling and testing and the impact of results on bilateral mastectomy (BLM) use.

Results

Six hundred sixty-six patients reported genetic testing. Although two thirds of patients were tested before surgical treatment, patients without private insurance more often experienced delays. Approximately half of patients (57% at higher pretest risk, 42% at average risk) discussed results with a genetic counselor. Patients with pathogenic mutations in BRCA1/2 or another gene had the highest rates of BLM (higher risk, 80%; average risk, 85%); however, BLM was also common among patients with genetic variants of uncertain significance (VUS; higher risk, 43%; average risk, 51%). Surgeons’ confidence in discussing testing increased with volume of patients with breast cancer, but many surgeons (higher volume, 24%; lower volume, 50%) managed patients with BRCA1/2 VUS the same as patients with BRCA1/2 pathogenic mutations.

Conclusion

Many patients with breast cancer are tested without ever seeing a genetic counselor. Half of average-risk patients with VUS undergo BLM, suggesting a limited understanding of results that some surgeons share. These findings emphasize the need to address challenges in personalized communication about genetic testing.
Aprendizagem informal no setor público: foco nas interações sociais e contexto organizacional
Authors: Reatto Diogo , Godoy Arilda Schmidt
Published: April 2017

Este estudo qualitativo interpretativo básico visa a compreender como ocorrem as experiências de aprendizagem vivenciadas por técnicos-administrativos de uma universidade estadual paulista no local de trabalho. O referencial teórico articula a literatura de Aprendizagem Informal nos locais de trabalho com a Teoria Pragmática da Aprendizagem de Bente Elkjaer. As 16 entrevistas com servidores apontam que eles aprendem suas tarefas informalmente, por meio da experiência da prática cotidiana no local de trabalho. As interações com os mundos e submundos sociais identificados despertam emoções, que ora apoiam ora suprimem a aprendizagem. Os fatores de contexto que determinam como se aprende são clima, cultura e estrutura física organizacionais, expectativas de progresso e relação entre novatos e experientes. Este trabalho avança a discussão em Aprendizagem Organizacional ao: estudar o papel das interações sociais no provimento de aprendizagem a indivíduos que não ocupam função gerencial; utilizar perspectiva teórica baseada na vertente construção social; apresentar modelo explicativo de como compreender o papel das interações sociais nos processos de aprendizagem informal nos locais de trabalho.
Reflexōes sobre a empregabilidade dos jovens provenientes de cursos superiores de tecnologia
Authors: Volkmer Martins Bibiana , Rocha-de-Oliveira Sidinei
Published: April 2017

Nas últimas duas décadas o mundo do trabalho tem passado por inúmeras transformações, entre elas a crescente flexibilização e precarização das suas relações, o que têm afetado sobremaneira grupos mais vulneráveis como os jovens. Paralelamente, ocorre uma expansão sem precedentes do ensino superior profissional no Brasil, que estabelece raízes na ressignificação da teoria do capital humano. Apesar da predominância do discurso de equivalência entre formação e emprego, aquela já não se apresenta como garantidora da entrada no mercado de trabalho. Assim, este ensaio teórico busca discutir a relação entre a profissionalização do ensino superior no Brasil e a empregabilidade dos jovens, bem como estabelecer uma agenda de pesquisa para estudos sobre o tema.  Para tanto, parte-se de estudos franceses sobre a expansão e profissionalização do ensino superior, uma vez que este processo já se consolidou nesse país, com vistas a avançar nas reflexões sobre a temática no Brasil.
Comparação de fontes para análise bibliométrica sobre a financeirização da estratégia
Authors: Maia Jonas Lucio , Di Serio Luiz Carlos
Published: April 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho é esboçar um panorama da produção científica no campo da Financeirização da Estratégia, usando múltiplas fontes.  Os achados sinalizam: (1) este é um tema recente, crescendo a partir do final dos anos 2000; (2) em periódicos de excelência, a produção sobre Financeirização está restrita a temas macroeconômicos; no campo da Estratégia, esta é realizada baixo aos conceitos de Geração de Valor (3) a produção se encontra dispersa entre vários autores distintos (4) a pesquisa sob Financeirização da Estratégia fica centralizada na Inglaterra, enquanto expandindo para conceitos de Valor este cenário fica mais balanceado; (5) sem termos correlatos os principais periódicos são de Economia e Política; com os termos de Geração de Valor estes são focados em Finanças e Economia, em Estratégia e em Marketing; (6) a análise de palavras-chave demonstra que a pesquisa sem termos correlatos apresentou escopo de temas restrito à Financeirização em si.
Price Discontinuities in an Online Market for Used Cars
Authors: Englmaier Florian , Schmöller Arno , Stowasser Till
Published: April 2017

We study the price-setting behavior in a competitive market for used cars and provide empirical evidence for coarse information processing. Based on detailed field data from one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for automotive vehicles, we document systematic and sizable price discontinuities at salient car-age and mileage thresholds. The price difference between two otherwise identical cars across registration years (where one was first registered in January and the other in December of the previous year) is up to five times larger than that between two cars first registered in any two subsequent months within a registration year. A similar pattern can be observed in the mileage dimension at 10,000-km odometer marks, which is in line with earlier findings in the literature. Being able to study discontinuities along two dimensions of the same good allows us to further our understanding toward a more general notion of inattentive behavior. While our results are compatible with a behavioral model of limited attention, we also provide evidence for a more traditional explanation based on search frictions.

Data and the online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2016.2714 .

This paper was accepted by Uri Gneezy, behavioral economics.
Kernel Smoothing for Nested Estimation with Application to Portfolio Risk Measurement
Authors: Hong L. Jeff , Juneja Sandeep , Liu Guangwu
Published: April 2017

Nested estimation involves estimating an expectation of a function of a conditional expectation via simulation. This problem has of late received increasing attention amongst researchers due to its broad applicability particularly in portfolio risk measurement and in pricing complex derivatives. In this paper, we study a kernel smoothing approach. We analyze its asymptotic properties, and present efficient algorithms for practical implementation. While asymptotic results suggest that the kernel smoothing approach is preferable over nested simulation only for low-dimensional problems, we propose a decomposition technique for portfolio risk measurement, through which a high-dimensional problem may be decomposed into low-dimensional ones that allow an efficient use of the kernel smoothing approach. Numerical studies show that, with the decomposition technique, the kernel smoothing approach works well for a reasonably large portfolio with 200 risk factors. This suggests that the proposed methodology may serve as a viable tool for risk measurement practice.

The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/opre.2017.1591 .
Pressure ulcers: Prevention and management
Authors: Holloway Samantha
Published: April 2017

This article provides an overview of pressure ulcers. It explores the current burden of pressure ulcers, outlining the current costs to the NHS, and also discusses the current challenges in how they can be effectively prevented and managed.
The importance of revalidation in the eyes of the CQC
Authors: Paton Laura
Published: April 2017

Nurses and midwives in the UK need to revalidate every 3 years if they are to remain registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. In this article, Laura Paton considers the importance of the process in the eyes of the Care Quality Commission
Dropouts and Budgets: A Test of a Dropout Reduction Model among Students in Israeli Higher Education
Authors: Bar-Am Ran , Arar Osama
Published: April 2017

This article deals with the problem of student dropout during the first year in a higher education institution. To date, no model on a budget has been developed and tested to prevent dropout among Engineering Students. This case study was conducted among first-year students taking evening classes in two practical engineering colleges in Israel. There are three dimensions of the dropout reduction model: social support, institutional support and personal commitment. The results of the intervention had a positive effect on all three dimensions.
What Instructional Leaders Need to Know About the Effects of Inclusion
Authors: Demirdag Seyithan
Published: April 2017

Effective school administrators and teachers are those who provide the least restrictive learning environments for all students. The main goal of this study was to analyze the effects of inclusive science education on the general education population of middle school students’ scientific conceptual understandings. The study was designed as a quasi-experimental model and conducted in a middle school in a large urban school district in Midwestern US. Approximately 4% of students in the school were receiving special education services. The participants in the study were selected through non-random selection. The participants of this study included 20 students without disabilities in each classroom with a total number of 120 students from a total of six different middle school classrooms. The study included two classrooms (one inclusive and one non-inclusive) for each grade level (6, 7, and 8). The conceptual change of students without disabilities was measured using the Density Assessment, which included 20 multiple choice questions. SPSS program was used for data analyses. Paired samples t-test and a multivariate group analysis test were conducted to investigate significant differences on students’ conceptual understandings. The findings showed that the effect of inclusive education was significant and positive on the conceptual understanding of students without disabilities in inclusive science classrooms.
Moisture Sorption and Hygroexpansion of Paraffin Wax Emulsion–Treated Southern Pine (Pinus spp.) under Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Chau ThiThanh , Ma Erni , Yang Tiantian , Cao Jinzhen
Published: April 2017

Moisture sorption and hygroexpansion of southern pine (Pinus spp.) treated with 0.5, 1, and 2 percent concentrations of paraffin wax emulsion (PWE) under dynamic conditions were investigated. The specimens, 4 and 10 mm along the grain and 20 mm in radial and tangential directions, were exposed to sinusoidal relative humidity (RH) between 45 and 75 percent at 30°C for cyclic periods of 1, 6, and 24 hours, respectively. Moisture changes and lateral dimensional changes were measured during the cycling. The moisture and dimensional responses of the specimens varied sinusoidally as well. The amplitude of moisture and the moisture sorption coefficient decreased with increasing PWE concentration treatment, leading to moisture-repellent effectiveness (MRE) values ranging from 10 to 66 percent. The list of amplitudes of dimensional change and the humidity expansion coefficient were lower in the PWE-treated wood, reflecting the antideformation effectiveness (ADE) of PWE treatment. Moisture and lateral dimension changes lagged behind RH, and the phase lag increased with an increase in PWE concentration, indicating that PWE treatment had efficient effects not only on reducing the amount but also on slowing the rate of the sorptive and hygroexpansive behavior of wood. Notably, values of MRE and ADE herein were greater than those obtained under static conditions by a previous study, i.e., PWE presented better moisture repellency and dimensional stabilizing performance of wood in dynamic environments for more practical applications.
Vom Aschenputtel zum Lieblingskind – Zur politischen Förderung des ÖkolandbausOrganic farming: A grassroots movement taken over by policy?
Authors: Dabbert Stephan , Häring Anna Maria
Published: April 2017

The rapid development of organic farming over the last decade is partly due to increased consideration of organic farming in policy measures. Examining this view, this article briefly discusses the current state and development of the organic farming sector and three lines of justification for policy support for organic farming: organic farming supplies public goods; the organic farming sector can be defined as an infant industry; and organic farming should be supported for risk precaution. Then, based on the observation that policy makers consider organic farming support justified, an integrated approach to organic farming policy is outlined.
Critical thinking tendencies and communication skills of midwifery students: A follow-up study by years
Ebelik öğrencilerinin eleştirel düşünme eğilimleri ve iletişim becerileri: Yıllara göre izlem çalışması
Authors: Ertekin Pınar Şükran , Duran Aksoy Özlem , Cesur Büşra , Dağlar Gülseren
Published: April 2017

The study was conducted to examine critical thinking tendencies and communication skills of midwifery students by years. The sample of the study consists of 56 midwifery students who study between 2012 and 2016 education periods. The data were collected with Personal Information Form, the Communication Skills Assessment Scale (CSAS) and the California Critical Thinking Tendency Scale (CCTTS). CSAS average score was found as 101.66±8.30 in the first follow-up, as 96.66±13.85 in the fifth follow-up. Total CCTTS average score was found as 222.70±24.77 in the first follow-up, as 218.04±26.60 in the fifth follow-up. In the study, a statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.002) in CSAS measurements. In analytical dimension which is from CCTTS sub-groups, there was a statistical significant difference between groups (p=0.000) in measurements. 75% of the students in the first follow-up, 73.2% in the second and third follow-up, 82.1% in the fourth follow-up and 76.8% in the fifth follow-up tend to have a low level of critical thinking. Communication skills assessment of midwifery students' is high but the majority have a low tendency to think critically. Assessment of communication skills in the first and the second follow-ups and their tendencies of critical thinking on the analytical dimension in the first follow-ups are higher. ÖzetAraştırma ebelik bölümünde öğrenim görmekte olan öğrencilerin eleştirel düşünme eğilimleri ve iletişim becerilerinin yıllara göre incelenmesi amacı ile yapılmıştır. Örneklemi 2012-2016 eğitim öğretim döneminde ebelik bölümüne devam eden 56 öğrenci oluşturmuştur. Veriler, Kişisel Bilgi Formu, İletişim Becerilerini Değerlendirme Ölçeği (İBDÖ) ve Kalifornia Eleştirel Düşünme Eğilimleri Ölçeği (KEDEÖ) ile toplanmıştır. İBDÖ puan ortalaması birinci izlemde 101.66±8.30, beşinci izlemde 96.66±13.85 olarak bulunmuştur. Toplam KEDEÖ puan ortalaması birinci izlemde 222.70±24.77, beşinci izlemde 218.04±26.60’dır. Araştırmada İBDÖ’nin izlemler sırasındaki ölçümlerinde gruplar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark olduğu (p=0.002) bulunmuştur. KEDEÖ alt boyutlarından analitiklik boyutunda izlemler sırasındaki ölçümlerde gruplar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark olduğu (p=0.000) saptanmıştır. Öğrencilerin birinci izlemde %75’i, ikinci ve üçüncü izlemde %73.2’si, dördüncü izlemde %82.1’i ve beşinci izlemde %76.8’i düşük düzeyde eleştirel düşünme eğilimlerine sahiptir. Ebelik öğrencilerinin iletişim becerilerini değerlendirmesi yüksek, çoğunluğunun eleştirel düşünme eğilimleri düşüktür. Birinci ve ikinci izlemde iletişim becerilerini değerlendirmeleri, birinci izlemde de analitik boyutta eleştirel düşünme eğilimleri yüksektir.
Points of (Dis)parity: Expectation Disconfirmation from Common Attributes in Consumer Choice
Authors: Evangelidis Ioannis , Van Osselaer Stijn M.J.
Published: April 2017

Whereas many theories of decision making predict that presenting or not presenting common features of choice alternatives should not affect choice, in this research, the authors show that common features can be a powerful driver of choice behavior. They conjecture that consumers often hold expectations about the features that choice alternatives have in common, and they demonstrate that presenting (vs. omitting information about) a common feature increases the choice probability of the alternative that would have been expected to perform worse on the common feature, given its performance on differentiating features. This effect occurs because performance on the common feature is judged not at face value but relative to an expectation about which product should perform best on that feature. The effect holds even though performance on the common feature is clearly the same when alternatives are presented side by side. Finally, the authors demonstrate four boundary conditions of this effect.
Growth performance, productivity and diseases susceptibility of barley varieties in Slovenia within the Cobra project’s site comparison
Authors: Grobelnik Mlakar Silva , Jakop Manfred , Robačer Martina , Bavec Martina , Bavec Franc
Published: April 2017

Different plant genotypes react differently in different climates. A field experiment was carried out to estimate the growth performance, productivity and diseases susceptibility of spring barley varieties in the Slovenian climate. We received some varieties, mainly of Nordic origin, from the Technical University of Denmark, a COBRA project partner, which were previously tested in estimated future climate in RERAF phytotron. Varieties of the highest grain yield (3,993 kg ha-1 in ‘Evergreen’ to 5,146 kg ha-1 in ‘Sebastian’) were rather shorter (58.7 cm to 67.1 cm) and mostly had the highest specific grain weight (54.3 to 58.6 kg 100 L-1) and 1000-kernel weight (30.2 to 37.1 g). They developed 1,561 to 2,532 tillers m-2 and 515 to 840 ears m-2 and reached a heading stage between 13th and 25th of May. The tested varieties seem rather insusceptible to most common diseases, but susceptible to cereal leaf beetle attacks.
Impact of salt reduction on the number of microorganisms and a sensory analysis for Kranjska sausages during their shelf-life
Authors: Tušar Livija , Kropf Irena Leonida , Cencič Avrelija
Published: April 2017

Salt is an important ingredient in the production of meat product. Any reduction of salt requires a special treatment. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of salt reduction on the growth of microorganisms in Kranjska sausages during their shell-life and to carry out a sensory assessment. The 18 lots of sausages were prepared under salt-reduced (1.6%) and control (2.3%) salt concentrations, directly on the production line. A total of 85 sausages were analysed and the data were used for the comparisons of groups (ANOVA) and to detect the significant variables (polynomial models) influenced on the total number of microorganisms (TNMs). The significant differences were determined between the lots (representing the microbiological status of the stuffing), between the salt-reduced samples and control samples, and between the different humidity levels. The correlations and significant relationships were determined between the TNMs and the lots, the salt concentrations, and the relative humidity. The polynomial models were to general to be used for the prediction. For sensory analysis implemented on 40thday 18 sausages were assessed. The reduction of salt resulted in lower scores in the sensory evaluation. The less-salted sausages contained more microorganisms.
In vitro tissue culture initiation from potted and garden Hydrangea macrophylla explants
Authors: Šiško Metka
Published: April 2017

The effect of sterilisation treatments on the initiation of the culture of three Hydrangea macrophylla genotypes in vitro was studied. The results indicated difference among different disinfection treatment; the consequence of treatments with dichloroisocyanuric acid, in combination with silver nitrate, was a significantly higher survival rate comparing to treatments based on NaOCl. Success of sterilisation was significantly influenced by studied genotypes. Two potted hydrangea genotypes (G2 and G3) showed higher survival rate (45.00 %, 55.00 %, respectively) comparing to the genotype 1 (originated from a local garden), which exhibited the highest percentage of contamination rate (58.75 %). Culturing the explants on a McCown woody plant medium supplemented with BAP at 2 mg/L and NAA at 0.005 mg/L produced the highest number of shoots with multiplication rate of 1.31 in 5 weeks. The highest rooting percentage (100.00 %) was obtained with the genotype 2 on a McCown woody plant medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/L IBA.
Multipliers of Uniform Topological Algebras
Authors: Azhari Mohammed El
Published: April 2017

Let E be a complete uniform topological algebra with Arens-Michael normed factors within an algebra isomorphism ϕ. If each factor Eα is complete, then every multiplier of E is continuous and ϕ is a topological algebra isomorphism where M(E) is endowed with its seminorm topology.
Generation Alpha: Marketing or Science
Authors: Nagy Ádám , Kölcsey Attila
Published: April 2017

Introduction: The transition from the limited information environment to the extended information world has fundamentally transformed the communication and information-gathering processes. The new learning spheres (non-formal and informal learning, i.e. lifelong learning) require rethinking learning strategies.

Purpose: The generation logic and knowledge of different generations can help making the learning process more effective and efficient. It also helps, if we know which generation exists and which one is a “fictious generation”. According to theory of Mannheim and the model of Prensky, we can describe Generation X, Y and Z, but now the name of the next generation is being established.

Methods: With the help of traditional desk research, such as literature search, data mining and web search, this article covers the origin of Generation Alpha (Alfa), the possible characteristics attributed to this age group, and tries to discern if this concept is meaningful in terms of the generation paradigm.

Conclusions: Overall, it is apparent that while the existence of X, Y, and Z generations is demonstrable, the naming and characterizing the Alfa generation is important for marketing purposes, scientifically there is no evidence for “Generation Alpha”.
A morphological study on the dioecious endemic Erodium somanum H. Peşmen (Geraniaceae), critically endangered in Turkey
Authors: Oskay Dilek
Published: April 2017

Morphological features of the endemic Erodium somanum are investigated based on the specimens collected from natural populations from Soma in Manisa. Almost all morphological characteristics are expanded and some morphological characteristics are firstly determined in this study. E. somanum is a dioecious species and in this study drawings of male and female individuals are given for the first time. An umbel is 3-5 flowered in female plants and 6-11 flowered in male plants, pedicels accrescent to 20-25 mm in fruit. Flower morphology was identified in detail and drawings are given for the first time. Stigma color ranges from yellow to red in populations. The fruit is long-beaked 4.8-8 cm, stout and adpressed pilose, glandular below. Mericarp morphology investigated for fruit characters has a special diagnostic value for systematic studies. The mericarp micromorphology and seed micromorphology were determined for the first time. Mericarp size 9-12 mm, mericarps have two apical shallow pits (foveoles) without furrow beneath. Mericarp surface ornamentation is foveate with crowded bristles of dissimilar size, some longer and others shorter. Mericarp pit is crowded with eglandular hairs and some sparse, long-stalked glands which are also at the start of the awn. Seed size is 4.5-6×1.5-2 mm, seed type is narrowly ovate, seed surface is ruminate.
The 99th percentile of reference population for cTnI and cTnT assay: methodology, pathophysiology and clinical implications
Authors: Clerico Aldo , Zaninotto Martina , Ripoli Andrea , Masotti Silvia , Prontera Concetta , Passino Claudio , Plebani Mario
Published: April 2017

According to recent international guidelines, including the 2012 Third Universal Definiton of Myocardial Infarction by the Joint ESC/ACCF/AHA/WHF Task Force, an increase in cardiac troponin (cTn) levels over the 99th percentile upper reference limit (99th URL) should be considered clinically relevant, this cut-off being measured with an imprecision ≤10 CV%. In theory 99th URL values strongly depend not only on demographic and physiological variables (i.e. criteria for considering the reference population “healthy”), but also on the analytical performance of cTn methods and mathematical algorithms used for the calculation. The aim of the present article was therefore to review the methodological and pathophysiological factors affecting the evaluation and calculation of the 99th URL for cTn assay. The critical analysis made showed that no uniform procedure is followed, and nor have experts or regulatory bodies provided uniform guidelines for researchers or cTn assays manufacturers as an aid in “their quest to define normality”. In particular, little attention has been paid to the way in which a healthy reference population is to be selected, or the criteria for calculating the 99th URL value for cTn assays, thus highlighting the need for international recommendations not only for demographic and physiological variables criteria for defining a healthy reference population, but also for calculating mathematical algorithms for establishing/calculating clinical decision values. An expert consensus group, comprising laboratory and clinical scientists, biomedical statisticians, industrial and regulatory representatives, should be responsible for drawing up these guidelines.
A candidate liquid chromatography mass spectrometry reference method for the quantification of the cardiac marker 1-32 B-type natriuretic peptide
Authors: Torma Attila F. , Groves Kate , Biesenbruch Sabine , Mussell Chris , Reid Alan , Ellison Steve , Cramer Rainer , Quaglia Milena
Published: April 2017

Background:

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a 32 amino acid cardiac hormone routinely measured by immunoassays to diagnose heart failure. While it is reported that immunoassay results can vary up to 45%, no attempt of standardization and/or harmonization through the development of certified reference materials (CRMs) or reference measurement procedures (RMPs) has yet been carried out.

Methods:

B-type natriuretic peptide primary calibrator was quantified traceably to the International System of Units (SI) by both amino acid analysis and tryptic digestion. A method for the stabilization of BNP in plasma followed by protein precipitation, solid phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography (LC) mass spectrometry (MS) was then developed and validated for the quantification of BNP at clinically relevant concentrations (15–150 fmol/g).

Results:

The candidate reference method was applied to the quantification of BNP in a number of samples from the UK NEQAS Cardiac Markers Scheme to demonstrate its applicability to generate reference values and to preliminary evaluate the commutability of a potential CRM. The results from the reference method were consistently lower than the immunoassay results and discrepancy between the immunoassays was observed confirming previous data.

Conclusions:

The application of the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method to the UK NEQAS samples and the correlation of the results with the immunoassay results shows the potential of the method to support external quality assessment schemes, to improve understanding of the bias of the assays and to establish RMPs for BNP measurements. Furthermore, the method has the potential to be multiplexed for monitoring circulating truncated forms of BNP.
An introduction to the edition of two Lemaître’s original manuscripts
Authors: Maere Catherine de , Lambert Dominique
Published: April 2017

The aim of this paper is to explain the contributions of G. Lemaître to Spinor Theory. At the end of the paper, we edited also, for the first time two short manuscripts: Spineurs et Quanta and Les spineurs et la physique quantique, written by Lemaître in December 1955 and in January 1956. This edition is a way of honouring Professor Michael Heller because he was the first, with Professor Odon Godart, who discovered, classified and published unedited manuscripts of G. Lemaître.
Revealing Employer’s Name in Social Networks
Authors: Sander Tom , Pūķe Ieva , Sloka Biruta
Published: April 2017

The research investigates the question of the importance of mentioning the name of the employer in online and offline social networks. The exchange of information is an important part of social networks and social capital theory. Companies can use the networks of their employees to recruit new hires and to check habits and interests of likely new employees. To do that, the employee has to mention the name of the company in these social networks. The paper compares different real social networks used by family and friends and private and business social network sites (SNSs) as online social networks and compares the differences between men and women. The empirical research has been done by a survey. The survey data are analysed using the main indicators of descriptive statistics, frequency, t-test and cross tables. The results of the research reveal that real social networks are more accepted than virtual social networks. The difference in use of social networks between genders is confirmed.
Criteria for Defining Tax Evasion as Tax Terrorism
Authors: Jurušs Māris
Published: April 2017

There are significant losses in tax revenues across the European Union (EU). National governments lose billions of euros in the revenues from non-paid taxes and other illegal activities. The fight against aggressive tax planning, tax fraud and illegal activities is on the agenda of the EU, OECD and all the national governments. However, due to the size of tax losses it should not be treated just as tax evasion, but rather as tax terrorism! Therefore, the author has set criteria when tax evasion should be named as “tax terrorism” as well as designed the principles for tackling tax terrorism and other ways of non-payment of taxes. The tax evasion could be treated as “tax terrorism” in case of international evasion from taxes by organized groups of persons for criminal purposes as well as when it creates significant losses in government revenues. The term “tax terrorism” would have impact to communication and cause response of society and politics, therefore it would have more social and political consequences.
Comparison of E-Trust and Trust Concepts in Online and Offline Dimensions
Authors: Radionova-Girsa Elina , Lahiža Agnesa
Published: April 2017

In everyday lives, we more and more use different technology products to make our lives easier and faster. We often do not realise that we are switching our lifestyles to the online platform - we do everything mostly online - meet and communicate with others, watch videos and listen to favourite songs, choose and buy different things. The main question is - can we trust everything that we see on the screen? Is the explanation of “trust” the same in real life and in online sphere? Authors of the paper compare the concept of “trust” in offline trade market with that in online trading. The following methods were used - literature study and analysis, consumer survey and statistical analysis. Consumer survey is already in the process and is to be continued during the next 2 years with the purpose to compare changes through years. Participants of the survey are the inhabitants of Latvia of different age groups, location, profession, etc. The authors have continued the survey to make it more complete and to find out new tendencies. It is possible to use the research results in both ways ‒ theoretical and practical in respect of choosing an effective communication with consumers, in creating a long-term relationship with them, and in regard to increasing the customer loyalty level and level of “trust”.
Numerical study of chemically reacting unsteady Casson fluid flow past a stretching surface with cross diffusion and thermal radiation
Authors: Pushpalatha K. , Ramana Reddy J.V. , Sugunamma V. , Sandeep N.
Published: April 2017

The problem of an unsteady MHD Casson fluid flow towards a stretching surface with cross diffusion effects is considered. The governing partial differential equations are converted into a set of nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations with the help of suitable similarity transformations. Further, these equations have been solved numerically by using Runge-Kutta fourth order method along with shooting technique. Finally, we studied the influence of various non-dimensional governing parameters on the flow field through graphs and tables. Results indicate that Dufour and Soret numbers have tendency to enhance the fluid velocity. It is also found that Soret number enhances the heat transfer rate where as an opposite result is observed with Casson parameter. A comparison of the present results with the previous literature is also tabulated to show the accuracy of the results.
Systematic evaluation of pH and thermoresponsive poly(n-isopropylacrylamide-chitosan-fluorescein) microgel
Authors: Hernández Pedro , Lucero-Acuña Armando , Gutiérrez-Valenzuela Cindy Alejandra , Moreno Ramón , Esquivel Reynaldo
Published: April 2017

The interesting properties of stimuli-responsive polymers lead to a wide range of possibilities in design and engineering of functional material for the biomedical application. A systematic approach focused on the evaluation of the physical properties of multiresponse (pH and temperature) PNIPAM was reported in this work. The effect of three different molar ratios of poly(n-isopropylacrylamide): chitosan (1:49, 1:99 and 1:198) were evaluated and labeled correspondingly as PC1F, PC2F, and PC3F. An increase in the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of sample PC1F (34°C) was observed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The presence of low molecular weight chitosan (LMWC) full-interpenetrating polymer (Full-IPN) segments in poly(n-isopropylacrylamide) was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The hydrogel’s water capture was analyzed by two models of swelling, the power law model and a model that considers the relaxation of polymeric chains of the hydrogel, finding good correlations with experimental data in both cases. Sample PC3F resulted with higher swellability, increasing the weight of the hydrogel around seven times. Hydrogel pH-sensibility was confirmed placing the samples at different pH environments, with an apparent increase in swellability for acidic conditions, confirming the highest swellability for sample PC3F, due to hydrogen bonds boosted by chitosan high molar ratio. Based on these results, the hydrogel obtained has potential as a thermo-pH triggered hydrogel in drug delivery applications.
Experimental Paper. The effect of colour grading of milk thistle (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.) seeds on their quality for sowing
Authors: Rosińska Agnieszka , Dorna Hanna , Szopińska Dorota , Seidler-Łożykowska Katarzyna
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Milk thistle (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.) is a medicinal plant belonging to Asteraceae family. Extract from milk thistle achenes (termed in practice as seeds) contains sylimarin, which protects liver cells against inorganic and organic toxic compounds. Objective: The aim of the research was to evaluate the effect of colour grading on the quality of milk thistle seeds. Methods: Seeds were graded manually by colour according to the Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart, issued in Great Britain. In three samples two fractions of seeds were separated: beige and brown, whereas seeds of the fourth sample were graded into three fractions: yellow, beige and brown. The 1000-seed weight and germination of graded and non-graded seeds were evaluated. Infestation of graded seeds with fungi was assessed. Results: Brown seeds had a higher 1000-seed weight than beige or yellow ones. Germination at the final count of beige seeds did not differ as compared to that of brown seeds or was even better. Milk thistle seeds were infested with numerous fungi, however Alternaria alternata and Ulocladium consortiale predominated. Conclusions: Less mature beige seeds can be used as sowing material because their germination at the final count did not differ as compared to that of fully mature brown seeds or was even better. Infestation of these seeds with some of the fungi was lower than brown seeds.
Experimental Paper. The effect of different development stages on the quantity and quality of the essential oil of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle in Iran
Authors: Esfahani Razieh Ebadati , Moradi Pejman
Published: April 2017

Introduction: The Mexican lime tree with the scientific name of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle have great economic value because of its essential oil with a unique flavour. Objective: The essential oils from the peel of C. aurantifolia were collected during three development periods. Methods: The essential oil was analyzed by capillary GC and GC-MS. Results: The essential oil yields (v/w%) were 1.54%, 0.88% and 1.23%, respectively. The highest oil yield was obtained at stage I (1.54% v/w). The analysis of the essential oil indicated that limonene, β-pinene, geranial, neral and γ-terpinene were the main compounds of all samples. At the first stage, the highest percentages belonged to limonene (39.38%), geranial (14.32%) and neral (11.01%). On the other hand, the highest percentages of β-pinene and γ-terpinene (24.25% and 8.92%, respectively) were found at the final stage. Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that the harvest time has a considerable effect on the content and amount of lime fruit essential oil.