bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citrus aurantium Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Wang Rui , Hassan Waseem , Ahmad Fiaz ud Din , Jabeen Qaiser , Ahmed Hammad , Iqbal Omer
Published: December 2019

We aimed to study the effects of Citrus aurantium (C. aurantium) on renal functions in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The study involved male Wistar rats weighing 250–300 g that were fed and kept under standard conditions. Rats were randomly divided into control, cisplatin administered, C. aurantium 200 mg/kg, and C. aurantium 400 mg/kg groups. Cisplatin was administered at 5 mg/kg i.p. once at the start of study to induce nephrotoxicity. Blood and urine samples were obtained at alternative days for analysis. The body weight and urine output were monitored at regular intervals. Plasma and urinary sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels were measured at the end of study duration. Absolute excretion of sodium and potassium; sodium to potassium ratio; kidney weights; fractional excretion of sodium and potassium; and absolute creatinine clearance were determined to analyze the effects of C. aurantium. Histopathological changes of kidney tissues were studied to determine relevant effects. The results indicate that cisplatin lowered the total body weights while raising the urinary output and kidney weights, reversed by C. aurantium both dose and time dependently. Similarly, C. aurantium markedly normalized plasma, urinary sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels. Cisplatin-induced absolute sodium clearance, absolute potassium clearance, absolute creatinine clearance, sodium to potassium ratio, and fractional excretion of sodium and potassium were significantly reversed by C. aurantium. Histopathological analysis showed notable improvement in C. aurantium administered groups as compared to cisplatin-induced group. Study suggests that C. aurantium possesses excellent nephroprotective effects against cisplatin-induced toxicity.
Clusterin Silencing in Prostate Cancer Induces Matrix Metalloproteinases by an NF-κB-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Bonacini Martina , Negri Aide , Davalli Pierpaola , Naponelli Valeria , Ramazzina Ileana , Lenzi Chiara , Bettuzzi Saverio , Rizzi Federica
Published: December 2019

Clusterin (CLU) is a stress-activated glycoprotein, whose expression is altered both in inflammation and cancer. Previously, we showed that abrogation of CLU expression in cancer-prone mice (TRAMP) results in the enhancement of tumor spreading and homing, concomitant with an enhanced expression of NF-κB. In the present paper, we carried out an extensive experimental work by utilizing microarray gene expression data, as well asin vitroandin vivomodels of prostate cancer (PCa). Our results demonstrated that (i) CLU expression is significantly downregulated in human PCa and inversely correlates with the expression of p65 in metastases; (ii) CLU overexpression in PCa cells reduces the Ser536phosphorylation of p65, inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation, and reduces the transcription of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-9 and MMP-2). Conversely, CLU silencing promotes NF-κB activation and transcriptional upregulation of MMP-9; and (iii) expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 are increased in CLU−/−mice (CLUKO) and in TRAMP/CLUKO mice in comparison to their relative Clu+/+littermates. Taken together, our data support the hypothesis that CLU downregulation, an early and relevant event in PCa onset, may inhibit NF-κB activation and limit the execution of a transcriptional program that favor the disease progression towards a metastatic stage.
Eliminating Rogue Femtocells for IoT Open Meter System Based on Expert System
Authors: Xiao Yong , Qian Bin , Cai Ziwen , Hong Liang , Su Sheng
Published: December 2019

The Internet of things (IoT), including power meters, water meters, natural gas meters, and meter collectors in an open metering system (OMS), which is dispersed around the user side, relies on wireless virtual private networks (VPNs) to communicate with head end, and thus it is exposed to malicious cyber attacks. The General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), which is vulnerable to rogue femtocells, is widely used for communication among meter collectors and the head end. Because telecommunication fraud related to rogue femtocells is a serious offence, rogue femtocells will be turned on for some time and immediately turned off and moved from here to there to escape from being caught. The signal strength (SS) of rogue femtocells is characterized by abrupt changes. Because meter collectors and lawful femtocells are deployed at the fixed location, there is a notable difference between signal strength profile of lawful and rogue femtocells. Prior knowledge of variation of signal strength is utilized to formulate rules to detect rogue femtocells. An expert system is developed to detect rogue femtocells and prevent meter collectors from attaching to them. Numerical simulation indicates that the proposed approach can detect both stationary and moving rogue femtocells online. Since computation load of the proposed approach is not high, it can be implemented in existing IoT meter collectors with limited computation resource and the proposed approach can harden cyber security of OMS.
Type 2 Diabetes, Atrial Fibrillation, and Direct Oral Anticoagulation
Authors: Prídavková Dana , Samoš Matej , Bolek Tomáš , Škorňová Ingrid , Žolková Jana , Kubisz Peter , Staško Ján , Mokáň Marián
Published: December 2019

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is an independent risk factor of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), and T2D patients with AF-associated stroke seem to have worse clinical outcome and higher risk of unfavorable clinical course compared to individuals without this metabolic disorder. Long-term anticoagulation is indicated in majority of T2D patients with AF to prevent adverse AF-associated embolic events. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), direct oral thrombin inhibitor dabigatran, and direct oral factor Xa inhibitors, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban, have emerged as a preferred choice for long-term prevention of stroke in AF patients offering potent and predictable anticoagulation and a favorable pharmacology with low risk of interactions. This article reviews the current data regarding the use of DOACs in individuals with T2D and AF.
The Effect of Lipotoxicity on Renal Dysfunction in a Nonobese Rat Model of Metabolic Syndrome: A Urinary Proteomic Approach
Authors: Markova Irena , Miklankova Denisa , Hüttl Martina , Kacer Petr , Skibova Jelena , Kucera Jan , Sedlacek Radislav , Kacerova Tereza , Kazdova Ludmila , Malinska Hana
Published: December 2019

Introduction. The development of metabolic syndrome-associated renal dysfunction is exacerbated by a number of factors including dyslipidemia, ectopic deposition of lipids and their toxic metabolites, impairment of lipid metabolism, and insulin resistance. Renal dysfunction is also affected by the production of proinflammatory and profibrotic factors secreted from adipose tissue, which can in turn directly impair kidney cells and potentiate insulin resistance. In this study, we investigated the manifestation of renal lipid accumulation and its effect on renal dysfunction in a model of metabolic syndrome—the hereditary hypertriglyceridemic rat (HHTg)—by assessing microalbuminuria and targeted urinary proteomics. Male Wistar control rats and HHTg rats were fed a standard diet and observed over the course of ageing at 3, 12, and 20 months of age. Results. Chronically elevated levels of triglycerides in HHTg rats were associated with increased levels of NEFA during OGTT and over a period of 24 hours (+80%, P<0.01). HHTg animals exhibited qualitative changes in NEFA fatty acid composition, represented by an increased proportion of saturated fatty acids (P<0.05) and a decreased proportion of n-3 PUFA (P<0.01). Ectopic lipid deposition in the kidneys of HHTg rats—triglycerides (+30%) and cholesterol (+10%)—was associated with markedly elevated microalbuminuria as ageing increased, despite the absence of microalbuminuria at the young age of 3 months in these animals. According to targeted proteomic analysis, 3-month-old HHTg rats (in comparison to age-matched controls) exhibited increased urinary secretion of proinflammatory parameters (MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, P<0.01) and decreased urinary secretion of epidermal growth factor (EGF, P<0.01) before manifestation of microalbuminuria. Elevation in the urinary secretion of inflammatory cytokines can be affected by increased relative expression of MCP-1 in the renal cortex (P<0.05). Conclusions. Our results confirm dyslipidemia and ectopic lipid accumulation to be key contributors in the development of metabolic syndrome-associated renal dysfunction. Assessing urinary secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and epidermal growth factor can help in detecting early development of metabolic syndrome-associated renal dysfunction.
Is Migraine an MPV-Related Disease? An Observational Study of Polish Neurological Patients
Authors: Brzeźniakiewicz-Janus Katarzyna , Lancé Marcus D. , Tukiendorf Andrzej , Rupa-Matysek Joanna , Brzozowska-Mańkowska Sybilla , Franków Mirosław , Wolny-Rokicka Edyta , Gil Lidia
Published: December 2019

Many studies have found correlations between abnormal MPV and clinical reactivity in a variety of diseases. In the present paper, we sought MPV-related neurological diseases that are less frequently reported in the literature. The electronic medical records of 852 neurological patients with mean platelet volume (MPV) measurements (F=45%, age=55.7±18.7, 8–104) were searched after the patients had received a diagnosis of a neurological disease (new and old episodes) according to the nine classes of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10). A set of consecutive statistical methods (i.e., cluster analysis, segmented regression, linear correlation, propensity score matching, and mixed effects Poisson regression) were used to establish a link between MPV and neurological disease. A statistically significant (p<0.05) relationship with MPV was found only in pain syndrome patients, with seven out of eight clinically diagnosed migraine episodes. With all other ICD-10 classes of neurological diseases, the effect of MPV was found to be nonsignificant (p>0.05). MPV may implicate a clinical relationship with pain syndrome and migraine episodes. More complex statistics could help analyse data and find new correlations.
Advanced Glycation End Products: Potential Mechanism and Therapeutic Target in Cardiovascular Complications under Diabetes
Authors: Yang Ping , Feng Jian , Peng Qing , Liu Xing , Fan Zhongcai
Published: December 2019

The occurrence and development of cardiovascular complications are predominantly responsible for the increased morbidity and mortality observed in patients with diabetes. Oxidative stress under hyperglycemia is currently considered the initial link to diabetic cardiovascular complications and a key node for the prevention and treatment of diabetes-related fatal cardiovascular events. Numerous studies have indicated that the common upstream pathway in the context of oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system under diabetic conditions is the interaction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) with their receptors (RAGEs). Therefore, a further understanding of the relationship between oxidative stress and AGEs is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular complications in patients with diabetes. In this review, we will briefly summarize the recent research advances in diabetes with an emphasis on oxidative stress and its association with AGEs in diabetic cardiovascular complications.
Efficacy and Safety of Dabrafenib in Pediatric Patients with BRAF V600 Mutation–Positive Relapsed or Refractory Low-Grade Glioma: Results from a Phase I/IIa Study
Authors: Hargrave Darren R. , Bouffet Eric , Tabori Uri , Broniscer Alberto , Cohen Kenneth J. , Hansford Jordan R. , Geoerger Birgit , Hingorani Pooja , Dunkel Ira J. , Russo Mark W. , Tseng Lillian , Dasgupta Kohinoor , Gasal Eduard , Whitlock James A. , Kieran Mark W.
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

Pediatric low-grade glioma (pLGG) is the most prevalent childhood brain tumor. Patients with BRAF V600 mutation–positive pLGG may benefit from treatment with dabrafenib. Part 2 of a phase I/IIa study, open-label study (NCT01677741) explores the activity and safety of dabrafenib treatment in these patients.

Patients and Methods:

Patients ages 1 to <18 years who had BRAF V600–mutant solid tumors (≥1 evaluable lesion) with recurrent, refractory, or progressive disease after ≥1 standard therapy were treated with oral dabrafenib 3.0 to 5.25 mg/kg/day (part 1) or at the recommended phase II dose (RP2D; part 2). Primary objectives were to determine the RP2D (part 1, results presented in a companion paper) and assess clinical activity (part 2). Here, we report the clinical activity, including objective response rates (ORRs) using Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology criteria and safety across parts 1 and 2.

Results:

Overall, 32 patients with pLGG were enrolled (part 1, n = 15; part 2, n = 17). Minimum follow-up was 26.2 months. Among all patients, the ORR was 44% [95% confidence interval (CI), 26–62] by independent review. The 1-year progression-free survival rate was 85% (95% CI, 64–94). Treatment-related adverse events (AE) were reported in 29 patients (91%); the most common was fatigue (34%). Grade 3/4 treatment-related AEs were reported in 9 patients (28%).

Conclusions:

Dabrafenib demonstrated meaningful clinical activity and acceptable tolerability in patients with BRAF V600–mutant pLGG.
Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding from a Jejunal Dieulafoy Lesion: An Extraordinary Presentation
Authors: Saada Majdi , Perek Shay , Agbaria Mohammad , Raz-Pasteur Ayelet
Published: December 2019

We present an atypical and rare case of a previously healthy 27-year-old male who presented with acute onset of abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and syncope. At the Emergency Department, vital signs were stable with no signs of shock. Physical examination revealed diffuse tenderness of the abdomen and cherry red blood was noted upon rectal examination. Blood tests showed marked leukocytosis without anemia. Sigmoidoscopy was performed which revealed hematochezia with no obvious site of bleeding. The patient was admitted to the hospital with a working diagnosis of dysentery and received supportive care. During the following days, blood tests revealed an ongoing decline of hemoglobin levels which necessitated a new workup of gastrointestinal bleeding. Investigation modalities including upper and lower endoscopies as well as angiography failed to demonstrate a bleeding site. Scintigraphy, which was performed next, demonstrated an increased radiotracer activity in the right abdomen consistent with small bowel bleeding. Following these results, the patient underwent urgent laparotomy and surgical resection was performed. The histopathological findings were consistent with a Dieulafoy lesion. This case illustrates the importance of the complementary role of various modalities in locating the bleeding site along the gastrointestinal tract.
Ameliorative Effect of Hochu-ekki-to on Natural Skin Aging
Authors: Orita Kumi , Yamate Yurika , Kobayashi Hiromi , Hiramoto Keiichi
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Although it is beneficial to protect the skin from natural aging, especially in an aging society, the approach by which this can be achieved is still not well known. Hochu-ekki-to, a Chinese natural medicine, has various advantageous effects; however, there is no report about its influence on skin aging. Objective: Therefore, we examined the effect of hochu-ekki-to against natural aging. Methods: Hairless mice, bred without ultraviolet ray irradiation and physical stress, were orally administered huchu-ekki-to 3 times per week for 2 years. After that period, degree of skin hydration and permeability were measured. Furthermore, hematoxylin and eosin histochemistry was performed to determine the morphology and condition of the tissues. Lastly, levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plasma and skin, as well as concentration of hyaluronic acid in the skin, were measured. Results: Signs of skin aging were ameliorated by administration of hochu-ekki-to, such as moisture retention, skin hydration, and the generation of wrinkles. Furthermore, vitamin A, vitamin C, collagen type I, collagen type III, fibroblasts, and hyaluronic acid levels in the skin increased, while levels of ROS decreased after hochu-ekki-to treatment. Conclusion: These results indicated that natural skin aging was ameliorated by treatment with hochu-ekki-to, specifically moisture retention, and skin hydration, and thickening, via the regulation of the vitamin C/fibroblast, collagen type III/collagen type I, and vitamin A/hyaluronic acid signaling pathways.
Adherence to Current Lipid Guidelines by Physicians in Kuwait
Authors: Alhajji Salwa , Mojiminiyi Segun
Published: December 2019

Background: Alarmingly high rates of dyslipidemia have been found in the Gulf region in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, with the highest being found in Kuwait (37%). Therefore, it is of utmost importance to treat dyslipidemia promptly and effectively. In an effort to understand the practices of local physicians, the use of evidence-based medicine, and adherence to lipid treatment guidelines, the objective of this study was to survey and assess the current standards of care. Methods: A survey questionnaire, designed to assess physicians’ attitudes and practice towards lipid guidelines, was completed by 279 participants and returned between October 2015 and June 2016. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS. Results: Over 90% of physicians claimed to use lipid guidelines, with the majority rating themselves as knowledgeable. Younger physicians were found to be less knowledgeable and consequently used guidelines less frequently. The most important factor influencing clinical decision-making was the availability of clinical guidelines. The majority (72.4%) of physicians identified time limitation as a key barrier. The most commonly selected lipid guideline in daily practice was a guideline on the treatment of blood cholesterol published by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association in 2013. The most common risk assessment tool used was the Framingham risk score. Conclusions: Multiple interventions to improve guideline adherence are proposed in this study. We have taken into account the barriers to adherence, i.e., attitude, behavior, and (most importantly) knowledge, all 3 of which were reaffirmed in our investigation in Kuwait.
Loss of Endothelial Endoglin Promotes High-Output Heart Failure Through Peripheral Arteriovenous Shunting Driven by VEGF Signaling
Authors: Tual-Chalot Simon , Garcia-Collado Maria , Redgrave Rachael E. , Singh Esha , Davison Benjamin , Park Catherine , Lin Hua , Luli Saimir , Jin Yi , Wang Yixin , Lawrie Allan , Jakobsson Lars , Arthur Helen M.
Published: December 2019

Rationale:

ENG (endoglin) is a coreceptor for BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) 9/10 and is strongly expressed in endothelial cells. Mutations in
ENG
lead to the inherited vascular disorder hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia characterized by local telangiectases and larger arteriovenous malformations (AVMs); but how ENG functions to regulate the adult vasculature is not understood.

Objective:

The goal of the work was to determine how ENG maintains vessel caliber in adult life to prevent AVM formation and thereby protect heart function.

Methods and Results:

Genetic depletion of endothelial
Eng
in adult mice led to a significant reduction in mean aortic blood pressure. There was no evidence of hemorrhage, anemia, or AVMs in major organs to explain the reduced aortic pressure. However, large AVMs developed in the peripheral vasculature intimately associated with the pelvic cartilaginous symphysis—a noncapsulated cartilage with a naturally high endogenous expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor). The increased blood flow through these peripheral AVMs explained the drop in aortic blood pressure and led to increased cardiac preload, and high stroke volumes, ultimately resulting in high-output heart failure. Development of pelvic AVMs in this region of high VEGF expression occurred because loss of ENG in endothelial cells leads to increased sensitivity to VEGF and a hyperproliferative response. Development of AVMs and associated progression to high-output heart failure in the absence of endothelial ENG was attenuated by targeting VEGF signaling with an anti-VEGFR2 (VEGF receptor 2) antibody.

Conclusions:

ENG promotes the normal balance of VEGF signaling in quiescent endothelial cells to maintain vessel caliber—an essential function in conditions of increased VEGF expression such as local hypoxia or inflammation. In the absence of endothelial ENG, increased sensitivity to VEGF drives abnormal endothelial proliferation in local regions of high VEGF expression, leading to AVM formation and a rapid injurious impact on heart function.
Identification guide to genera of aquatic larval Chironomidae (Diptera) of Australia and New Zealand
Authors: CRANSTON PETER S.
Published: December 2019

Identification keys are provided for the final (4th) instar larvae of genera of Chironomidae (Diptera), from aquatic habitats in Australia and New Zealand. Morphological features of taxonomic utility are discussed and illustrated by line drawings. Summaries of described species for each genus and their distribution is provided, with reference to means of further identification where available. In the subfamily Podonominae, 5 genera are keyed of which 3 are recorded from New Zealand; the 4 genera of Aphroteniinae are from Australia (absent from New Zealand); in Diamesinae 1 genus is Australian, 2 are from New Zealand; in the Tanypodinae 21 genera are found in Australia and 4 are from New Zealand; in Orthocladiinae 31 genera are reported from Australia, 14 from New Zealand; and in Chironominae 43 genera are keyed from Australia, 9 from New Zealand. Larvae of Axarus Roback, Chernovskiia Sæther and Omisus Townes (Chironomini) are recognised in Australia for the first time. The undescribed larva of Paucispinigera Freeman, endemic to New Zealand, is keyed and several other New Zealand taxa are included based on unpublished records. Genera reported from Australia and New Zealand as adults, but unknown as larvae, are listed.
The New Polish Cyrillic in Independent Belarus
Authors: Kamusella Tomasz
Published: December 2019

The New Polish Cyrillic in Independent BelarusAfter the fall of communism and the breakup of the Soviet Union, the religious life of the Roman Catholic community revived in independent Belarus. The country’s Catholics are concentrated in western Belarus, which prior to World War II was part of Poland. In 1991 in Hrodna (Horadnia, Grodno) Region, the Diocese of Hrodna was established. Slightly over half of the region’s population are Catholics and many identify as ethnic Poles. Following the ban on the official use of Polish in postwar Soviet Belarus, the aforementioned region’s population gained an education in Belarusian and Russian, as channeled through the Cyrillic alphabet. Hence, following the 1991 independence of Belarus, the population’s knowledge of the Latin alphabet was none, or minimal. For the sake of providing the faithful with Polish-language religious material that would be of some practical use, the diocesan authorities decided to publish some Polish-language prayer books, but printed in the Russian-style Cyrillic. This currently widespread use of Cyrillic-based Polish-language publications in Belarus remains unknown outside the country, either in Poland or elsewhere in Europe. Nowa polska cyrylica w niepodległej Białorusi Po upadku komunizmu i rozpadzie Związku Sowieckiego życie religijne wspólnoty rzymskokatolickiej przeżyło odrodzenie w niepodległej Białorusi. Katolicy tego kraju koncentrują się w zachodniej Białorusi, która przed II wojną światową była włączona w skład Polski. W 1991 r. w obwodzie hrodzieńskim (horadnieńskim/grodzieńskim) powstała Diecezja Hrodzieńska. Nieco ponad połowa ludności obwodu to katolicy, a wielu identyfikuje się jako etniczni Polacy. Zgodnie z zakazem oficjalnego używania języka polskiego w powojennej Białorusi sowieckiej ludność wspomnianego regionu zdobywała wykształcenie w językach białoruskim i rosyjskim, oczywiście zapisywanych cyrylicą. Stąd po odzyskaniu niepodległości przez Białoruś w 1991 r. znajomość alfabetu łacińskiego wśród tej ludności była nikła. W trosce o zapewnienie wiernym polskojęzycznych wydawnictw religijnych, które potrafiliby czytać i z nich korzystać w kościele i podczas osobistej modlitwy, władze diecezjalne postanowiły opublikować kilka książek w języku polskim, ale wydrukować je rosyjską cyrylicą. To zjawisko powszechnegokorzystania z książek religijnych w języku polskim drukowanych cyrylicą na zachodzie dzisiejszej Białorusi pozostaje nieznane poza granicami tego kraju, w tym w Polsce.
The Language of Cruelty of the Holocaust on the Example of “The Ringelblum Archive. Annihilation – Day by Day”
Authors: Olszewska Izabela
Published: December 2019

The Language of Cruelty of the Holocaust on the Example of The Ringelblum Archive. Annihilation – Day by DayThe Underground Archive of the Warsaw Ghetto is one of the most significant testimonies of the annihilation of Polish Jews to be preserved in social life documents, mainly written reports and photographs. The founder of the Archive, Emanuel Ringelblum, described the purpose of the collected materials as follows: “We wanted the events in every town, the experiences of every Jew – and every Jew during this war is a world unto himself – to be conveyed in the simplest, most faithful manner. Every redundant word, every literary addition or embellishment, stood out, causing a sense of dissonance and distaste. The life of Jews during this war is so tragic that not a single extra word is needed”. The aim of the paper is a linguistic analysis of the drastic language of the Holocaust on the basis of The Ringelblum Archive: Annihilation - Day by Day. Język okrucieństwa Holokaustu na przykładzie Archiwum Ringelbluma. Dzień po dniu ZagładyPodziemne Archiwum Getta Warszawskiego jest jednym z najważniejszych świadectw zagłady polskich Żydów zachowanych w dokumentach życia społecznego, głównie w reportażach i fotografiach. Założyciel Archiwum, Emanuel Ringelblum, następująco opisał cel zebranych materiałów: „Chcieliśmy, aby wydarzenia w każdym mieście, doświadczenia każdego Żyda – a każdy Żyd w czasie tej wojny jest światem dla siebie – były przekazywane w najprostszy, najwierniejszy sposób. Każde zbędne słowo, każdy dodatek literacki czy ozdoba wyróżniały się, powodując poczucie dysonansu i niesmaku. Życie Żydów w czasie tej wojny jest tak tragiczne, że nie potrzeba ani jednego dodatkowego słowa”. Celem artykułu jest analiza lingwistyczna drastycznego języka Holokaustu na podstawie książki Archiwum Ringelbluma. Dzień po dniu Zagłady.
Examining the Boundaries of Contemporary Art: An Exploratory Study of Institutional Critique in Poland 1990–2015
Authors: Płucienniczak Piotr P.
Published: December 2019

Examining the Boundaries of Contemporary Art: An Exploratory Study of Institutional Critique in Poland 1990–2015The article explores the practices of institutional critique in Polish contemporary art. A quantitative survey of cases of institutional critique reveals major problems faced by artists and their perceptions of the autonomy of the visual arts. Badanie granic sztuki współczesnej: Eksploracyjne studium krytyki instytucjonalnej w Polsce 1990-2015Artykuł prezentuje wyniki eksploracyjnych badań nad praktykami krytyki instytucjonalnej w polskiej sztuce współczesnej. Ilościowa analiza epizodów takiego rodzaju działań artystycznych ujawnia najważniejsze problemy twórców i twórczyń oraz ich percepcję autonomii sztuk wizualnych.
Towards Social History of Literature. Book Review: Paweł Tomczok (2018). "Literacki kapitalizm. Obrazy abstrakcji ekonomicznych w literaturze polskiej drugiej połowy XIX wieku". Katowice: Wydawnictwo UŚ
Authors: Roman-Rawska Katarzyna
Published: December 2019

Towards Social History of Literature. Book Review: Paweł Tomczok (2018). Literacki kapitalizm. Obrazy abstrakcji ekonomicznych w literaturze polskiej drugiej połowy XIX wieku. Katowice: Wydawnictwo UŚThe article is a critical review of Paweł Tomczok's book Literary Capitalism: Images of Economic Abstractions in Polish Literature of the Second Half of the 19th Century (2018). It focuses primarily on the theoretical part of the monograph, analyzing the empirical part to a lesser extent. The article situates Tomczok's book in the area of social history of literature. W kierunku społecznej historii literatury. Recenzja monografii Pawła Tomczoka pt. Literacki kapitalizm. Obrazy abstrakcji ekonomicznych w literaturze polskiej drugiej połowy XIX wieku. Katowice: Wydawnictwo UŚ Artykuł jest krytycznym esejem recenzyjnym książki Pawła Tomczoka Literacki kapitalizm. Obrazy abstrakcji ekonomicznych w literaturze polskiej drugiej połowy XIX wieku. Skupia się przede wszystkim na części teoretycznej monografii, w mniejszym stopniu analizuje zaś część empiryczną. Artykuł umiejscawia książkę Tomczoka w obszarze społecznej historii literatury.
Professor Jerzy Skowronek Award (24th edition)
Authors: Team Editorial
Published: December 2019

Information about Jerzy Skowronek Award, which was awarded this year to Wojciech Sajkowski. Informacja o Nagrodzie im. prof. Jerzego Skowronka, której laureatem jest w tym roku Wojciech Sajkowski.
Problem gambling among male Polish prisoners: A study of prevalence and psychosocial factors
Authors: Lelonek-Kuleta Bernadeta , Bartczuk Rafał P
Published: December 2019

The goals of this study were to estimate the levels of involvement in gambling and gambling disorders among Polish prisoners and to identify selected psychosocial factors associated with gambling activities. The study was conducted in randomly selected penitentiaries with therapeutic and non-therapeutic programmes. It covered 1219 male prisoners and used a specially designed 75-item questionnaire, including South Oaks Gambling Screen. About 29.4% of prisoners had exhibited pathological gambling symptoms at some point in their lives (based on South Oaks Gambling Screen). Pathological gamblers were characterised by: city residence, not being educated above lower-secondary, being single, having other gamblers and pathological gamblers among their close friends or family and use of psychoactive substances while gambling. Pathological gamblers were motivated by the desire to win, to escape from problems and to experience powerful emotions. The prevalence of gambling disorders in the prison population suggests that there is a need for systemic action to be introduced to prevent the development of pathological gambling in penitentiaries and also within groups at risk of criminal activity.
Attitudes to school and reading achievement among secondary school students
Authors: Cain Thomas , Hattie John
Published: December 2019

This study analysed students’ attitudes towards school and the relationship between these attitudes and reading performance. Using a sample of 57,572 Year 7 and 9 students from 306 Victorian government schools, the analysis combined two de-identified data sets – students’ responses to the Student Attitudes to School Survey and their performance in NAPLAN reading assessments – from a single year (2017). The findings of this study demonstrate that a re-organisation of survey items into six new factors may represent student attitudes more usefully than the current 20-factor structure. Each of the six factors was found to relate to a set of demographic moderators. The results yielded statistically significant relationships between each attitude factor and reading achievement and growth. This study proposes a four-cluster model that groups schools with similar profiles across the six attitude factors. This model may improve the ability of the education system to interpret and analyse relative data and use these findings more effectively.
Sleep Quality and Quality of Life Among Healthy High School Athletes
Authors: Potter Morgan N. , Howell David R. , Dahab Katherine S. , Sweeney Emily A. , Albright Jay C. , Provance Aaron J.
Published: December 2019

We examined the association between sleep quality and quality of life (QOL) among uninjured high school athletes. Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric Profile 25 questionnaire. One hundred ten athletes reported poor sleep quality (mean PSQI: 6.6 ± 2.0; mean age: 15.3 ± 1.1; 62% female); 162 athletes reported good sleep quality (mean PSQI: 2.3 ± 1.3; mean age: 15.1 ± 1.7; 33% female). After adjusting for sex and age, worse sleep quality was associated with higher physical function/mobility (β = 0.034; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.007-0.060; P = .01), anxiety (β= 0.391; 95% CI = 0.263-0.520; P < .001), depressive symptom (β = 0.456; 95% CI = 0.346-0.565; P < .001), fatigue (β = 0.537; 95% CI = 0.438-0.636; P < .001), pain interference (β = 0.247; 95% CI = 0.119-0.375; P < .001), and pain intensity (β = 0.103; 95% CI = 0.029-0.177; P = .006) ratings. Poor self-reported sleep quality among adolescent athletes was associated with worse QOL ratings. Clinicians should consider assessing sleep hygiene to provide guidance on issues pertaining to reduced QOL.
Influence of fluorescent dyes for dyeing of regenerated cellulose fabric
Authors: Liu Hao , Lu Minglei , Pan Fukui , Ning Xin , Ming Jinfa
Published: December 2019

This study attempted to dye regenerated cellulose fiber fabric with fluorescent dyes in different conditions (dyeing time, temperature, pH, concentration, etc.) and investigated their effects on color strength, fluorescence intensity, and other properties of dyed fabrics. The exhaust dyeing method was applied in this experiment for cellulose based knitted fabrics. The physical properties of dyed knitted fabrics before and after treatment with fluorescent dyes were determined and evaluated. After fluorescent staining, the results showed that a large number of granular fluorescent particles were coated on the fiber surface. Higher K/ S values were obtained under conditions of a dyeing temperature of 80℃, dyeing time of 30 min, and NaCl concentration of 1 wt% than other conditions. Moreover, the fluorescence intensity of the dyed fabric was also highest at 80℃. The color strength and bursting strength of dyed knitted fabrics were increased with the increase of the concentration of fluorescein sodium. Thus, cellulose based knitted fabric dyed with fluorescent dyes exhibited excellent fluorescent properties and could be used in fluorescent clothing.
Theoretical modeling and vibration control for pre-twisted composite blade based on LLI controller
Authors: Liu Ting-Rui , Gong Ai-Ling
Published: December 2019

Theoretical modeling and vibration control for divergent motion of thin-walled pre-twisted wind turbine blade have been investigated based on “linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controller using loop transfer recovery (LTR) at plant input” (LLI). The blade section is a single-celled composite structure with symmetric layup configuration of circumferentially uniform stiffness (CUS), exhibiting displacements of vertical/lateral bending coupling. Flutter suppression for divergent instability is investigated, with blade driven by nonlinear aerodynamic forces. Theoretical modeling of CUS-based structure is implemented based on Hamilton variational principle of elasticity theory. The discretization of aeroelastic equations is solved by Galerkin method, with blade tip responses demonstrated. The LLI controller is characterized by LTR at the plant input. The effects of LLI controller are achieved and illustrated by displacement responses, controller responses and frequency spectrum analysis, respectively.
In-Office vs. Operating Room Procedures for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Authors: Miller Anya J. , Gardner Glendon M.
Published: December 2019

We conducted a study to analyze hospital and patient costs, outcomes, and patient satisfaction among adults undergoing in-office and operating room procedures for the treatment of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Our final study population was made up of 17 patients—1 man and 16 women, aged 30 to 86 years (mean: 62). The mean number of in-office laser procedures per patient was 4.2, and the mean interval between procedures was 5.4 months (although 10 patients underwent only 1 office procedure); the mean number of operating room procedures was 13.5, and the mean interval between procedures was 14.3 months. An equal number of patients reported complications or adverse events with the two types of procedures—5 each. The difference in cost between the office procedure (mean: $3,413.00) and the operating room procedure (mean: $12,382.59) was almost $9,000, but these savings were offset by the fact that the office procedures needed to be performed three times as often. Patients reported slightly more anxiety and discomfort during the office procedures and, overall, they appeared to prefer the operating room procedure. We conclude that office procedures are significantly more cost-effective than operating room procedures, but their use may be limited by patient tolerance and the increased frequency of the procedure.
A Sociotechnical History of the Ultralightweight Wheelchair: A Vehicle of Social Change
Authors: Stewart Hilary , Watson Nick
Published: December 2019

The emergence of the ultralightweight wheelchair has transformed the lives of millions of disabled people. It has radically changed the principles and practices of wheelchair design, manufacture, and prescription and redefined wheelchair users and wheelchair use. Designed and built largely by wheelchair users themselves, it was driven initially by a desire to improve sport performance and later by a wish for improved access to the community and built environment. In this paper, we draw on oral histories and documentary sources to reconstruct its sociotechnical history. We employ the analytical concept of “boundary object” to illuminate how the wheelchair as a technological artifact is implicated in relations of social change and show the role of wheelchair users in the development and emergence of the ultralightweight wheelchair. We highlight the tensions and negotiations within this history and the push and pull between different social groups. The emergence of the ultralightweight wheelchair helped to reconfigure ideas about wheelchairs and their users and allowed wheelchairs to gain a foothold within broader social and technological infrastructures. What makes this account powerful is that this is a success story for a group who have historically been excluded from design processes.
The Impact of Frame Ambiguity on Field-Level Change
Authors: Feront Cecile , Bertels Stephanie
Published: December 2019

While prior work suggests that ambiguous frames may be helpful in promoting institutional change, we still know little about their impact on field-level change. Drawing on contemporary accounts of organizational fields as structured around issues, we investigate the rise of responsible investment in South Africa, examining how proponents’ use of frame ambiguity drew in a broader range of field actors but ultimately stalled the institutionalization of new meanings and practices in the investment field. Our study suggests that to promote change, proponents should seek a balance between enough ambiguity to invite participation, and enough specification to regulate the understanding of the problem, promote the experimentation of new practices, and clarify the impetus for action. We also contribute to the conceptualization of field settlement by distinguishing among rhetorical, incremental, and disruptive field settlements, highlighting that field settlements are not always indicators of further substantive change processes in a field.
Profiles of stereotyped behaviour in people with combined sensory impairments and intellectual disabilities
Authors: de Vaan Gitta , Vervloed Mathijs PJ , Knoors Harry , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: December 2019

Stereotyped and repetitive behaviours are characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but also occur in individuals with combined intellectual and sensory disabilities. This article looked at the differences in type, frequency, and duration of stereotyped behaviours between individuals with and without ASD in this population. The study included 59 individuals with intellectual disabilities and sensory impairments. The presence of ASD was assessed using Observation of Autism in people with Sensory and Intellectual Disabilities (OASID). Separate from these assessments, video recordings were scored by observers naive to the ASD status of participants for stereotyped and repetitive behaviours. Stereotyped and repetitive behaviours were more prevalent in participants with ASD, though a large proportion of participants without ASD showed them too. Participants with ASD showed, on average, more frequent and in duration longer stereotyped and repetitive behaviours, especially self-injurious behaviours. No differences were found for vocal, motoric, and stereotyped behaviours with objects. The mean duration of each episode of stereotyped behaviour did not differ between groups. Cluster analysis revealed a distinct group of individuals without ASD who showed a high number of stereotyped behaviours.
Effects of Cognitive Expectation on Sound-Induced Flash Illusion
Authors: Wang Aijun , Sang Hanbin , He Jiaying , Sava-Segal Clara , Tang Xiaoyu , Zhang Ming
Published: December 2019

Sound-induced flash illusion (SIFI) is an auditory-dominated multisensory integration phenomenon in which flashes presented in conjunction with an unequal number of auditory sounds are illusorily perceived as equal in number to the auditory sounds. Previous studies on the factors that impact SIFI have mainly focused on top-down and bottom-up factors. This study aimed to explore the effects of top-down cognitive expectations on the SIFI by manipulating the proportion of trial types. The results showed that the accuracy of judgment was improved and reaction times were shortened when the instructions were consistent with the actual proportion of trial type. When the instructions were not consistent with the actual proportion of trial types, the instructions could still regulate the accuracy and reaction times in judging the fission illusion (i.e., a brief flash accompanied by two auditory stimuli tends to be perceived as two flashes) regardless of the actual proportion of trial types. The results indicated that top-down cognitive expectations could significantly reduce the fission illusion and accelerate the judgment, but the effect was not significant in the fusion illusion (i.e., two brief flashes accompanied by single auditory stimuli tend to be perceived as a single flash) due to the instability of the illusion.
Model migration and rough edges: British actuaries and the ontologies of modelling
Authors: van der Heide Arjen
Published: December 2019

The existing literature on modelling provides two main ways of viewing model migration: a modular view, which seeks to decompose models in their constitutive elements, and thus provides a view on what it is that migrates; and a practice-based view, which focuses on modelling as an activity, and understands a model as intricately entangled with its context of use. This article brings together these two sensitivities by focusing on ontologies of modelling. The paper presents a case study of the appropriation of modern finance theory’s ‘no-arbitrage’ models by British actuaries – a process that gradually unfolded at around the turn of the century and led to significant friction within the UK’s insurance industry. We can distinguish two main modelling ontologies: a ‘risk-neutral ontology’, which underpins no-arbitrage models and holds that the value of financial instruments is determined by ‘arbitrage’; and, a ‘real-world ontology’, which assumes that the economic world consists of real probabilities that may be approximated through a combination of archival-statistical methods and expert judgment. The appropriation of the risk-neutral modelling ontology was made possible by the declining legitimacy of actuarial expertise as ‘financial stewards’ of life insurance companies. The risk-neutral modelling ontology provided an ‘objective’ alternative to the traditional actuarial models, which explicitly required actuaries to make ‘prudent’ judgments. Despite the fact that the no-arbitrage modelling was considered an ‘objective’ affair, the valuation models that insurers use today are strongly shaped by political compromises, a result of the ‘rough edges’ of models.
Advancing play participation for all: The challenge of addressing play diversity and inclusion in community parks and playgrounds
Authors: Lynch Helen , Moore Alice , Edwards Claire , Horgan Linda
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Outdoor parks and playgrounds are important sites of social inclusion in many urban communities. However, these playspaces are often inaccessible and unusable for many children with disabilities. This paper presents findings from a case study of one urban municipality in Ireland. The study aimed to understand play participation in five local playgrounds by exploring the perspectives of play providers and families with diverse abilities, through the lens of universal design.

Methods

Multiple qualitative methods were used, including playground audits, walk-and-talk observations, and semi-structured interviews. Four play providers, 12 children, and 10 adult users took part. Inductive analysis was conducted to understand the usability and accessibility of playgrounds from a universal design perspective.

Findings

These playgrounds provided high play value for younger children, but low play value for older children and those with disabilities, due to lack of accessibility or usability. While local authorities aimed to provide inclusive playgrounds, they lacked knowledge on universal design for playspaces.

Conclusion

Children with disabilities continue to experience exclusion in community playspaces, despite a commitment to inclusion in local authorities. Play providers need support to tailor principles of universal design to playground design. Occupational therapists are ideally situated to collaborate with local authorities on universal design for enhancing children’s play participation in community settings.
Por Virtud del Asiento: The naval logistics of the slave trade to the Spanish Indies (1604-1624)
Authors: Jorge Cruz Mouta Fernando
Published: December 2019

From 1595 up until 1640, the slave trade to the Spanish Indies was under the asiento system, monopolized by Portuguese new-Christian traders. This paper analyses the naval logistics of this specific transatlantic slave trade from 1604 to 1624, based on documentation in the Archivo General de Índias in Seville. In accordance to the data available, it is possible to present tendencies about this specific slave trade, the typology of the ships involved, and the crews’ age and provenance. The new data presented in this paper is a complement to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, as it is based solely on evidence from the Archivo and has a different focus, specifically its naval logistics. Although it was a monopolized trade, it was only made possible by a multitude of participants.