bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New progress in understanding the cellular mechanisms of anti-arrhythmic drugs
Authors: An Zhe , Yang Guang , Liu Xuanxuan , Zhang Zhongfan , Liu Guohui
Published: September 2018

Antiarrhythmic drugs are widely used, however, their efficacy is moderate and they can have serious side effects. Even if catheter ablation is effective for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, antiarrhythmic drugs are still important tools for the treatment of arrhythmia. Despite efforts, the development of antiarrhythmic drugs is still slow due to the limited understanding of the role of various ionic currents. This review summarizes the new targets and mechanisms of antiarrhythmic drugs.
Equiaxed Solidification of 430 Ferritic Stainless Steel Nucleating on Core-Containing Ti
Authors: Shi Xiaofang , Chang Lizhong
Published: September 2018

The solidification structure of ferritic stainless steel can be refined by controlling the contents of Ti, O, and N in the liquid steel through the thermodynamic analysis and high-temperature experiment. It is found by the scanning electron microscopy technology, in which the composite core of Ti nitride-enwrapping Ti oxide can be formed in the solidification front, which promotes the nucleation of δ iron and refines the solidification structure. Meanwhile, the structure analysis of the composite core by the transmission electron microscope technology proves that the Ti oxide that exists in the centre of the composite core is Ti2O3 and the Ti nitride that exists in the outer layer of the composite core is TiN.
Moisture Dependent Diffusion and Shrinkage in Yam during Drying
Authors: Amankwah Emmanuel A. , Dzisi Komla Agbeko , van Straten Gerrit , van Boxtel Anton J.B.
Published: September 2018

Crank’s analytical approximations for Fick’s diffusion equation were used to investigate the effect of moisture dependent sample thickness and diffusivity on the behavior of yam (Dioscoreaceae rotundata) cubicles during drying processes. Drying and shrinkage experiments were separately conducted at temperatures of 30, 40 and 50 °C in a cabinet drier. The comparative study of moisture dependent shrinkage and moisture dependent diffusivity justifies the interdependence of diffusivity and shrinkage due to water loss during drying. The behavior for yam is best explained by a combination of fractal moisture dependent shrinkage and moisture dependent diffusion, describing both the drying and rate curves better with good prediction of the high moisture regions. This assertion was reached as a result of low mean square error, standard error, percentage relative deviation, Akaike’s Information Criterion and high coefficient of determination. The results may indicate a varying mobility of water in food matrix of different moisture content in the multilayer and monolayer regimes.
Meta-analysis of PET/CT detect lymph nodes metastases of cervical cancer
Authors: Ruan Jianjiang , Zhang Yueqiao , Ren Hong
Published: September 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of PET/CT for metastatic lymph nodes in cervical cancer patients.

Methods

Searching in the databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar about non-invasive modalities for detecting lymph nodes metastases during 2000~2017. Following further screening, the extracted effective data were calculated by Meta-Disc 1.4 software, such as sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), positive likelihood (LR+), and negative likelihood ratio (LR-).

Results

we obtained 27 articles. The pooled estimates for sensitivity of PET/CT were 0.72 (95% CI, [0.69, 0.75]); for specificity were 0.96 (95% CI, [0.96, 0.97]). Its weighted AUC was 0.93.

Conclusion

PET/CT remains to be an effective method for diagnosis of metastatic lymph nodes from cervical cancer.
Roman Republican coins in the collection of the Palacký University in Olomouc
Authors: Militký Jiří
Published: September 2018

The collection of ancient coins of the Palacký University in Olomouc is recently preserved in the department of history there. It is very likely that the collection was founded sometimes between the second half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century – no details are known about it and the collection became the university property evidently after 1946. The core of the Olomouc collection is represented by denarii dating back to 154–74 BC (cat. nos. 3–69). Only individual pieces of the earlier issues (cat. nos. 1–2) and the later issues (cat. nos. 70–72) are present here. Publication of this collection could be accepted as a small contribution to documentation of the physically verified material of the mentioned period. Parallelly, it is an interesting testimony of the collecting activities in Olomouc at the break of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Hoard of Bohemian and Meissen bracteates found in Natternberg (local part of Deggendorf, Lower Bavaria)
Authors: Hylla Alexandra , Schneider Petr
Published: September 2018

Around 1950, during the forestry works near Natternberg (local part of Deggendorf, Lower Bavaria), some 26 bracteates were found. Only in 2012, the grandson of the finder reported the hoard and passed it for documentation to the Staatliche Münzsammlung München. Later on, the coins were returned to the owner and then sold in the numismatic auction. The Bohemian part is represented by three large bracteates struck under King Ottokar I of Bohemia (1192–1193, 1197–1230) during the last decade of his rule (cat. nos. 1–3). The Meissen coins are represented by 23 large bracteates struck (cat. nos. 4–26) under Margrave Henry III the Illustrious (1221/1230–1288) during the first decade of his rule. The hoard was buried in Natternberg very likely sometimes around 1230. Appearance of the Bohemian and Meissen bracteates is quite rare in Lower Bavaria, the twosided pfennigs from Regensburg and Passau circulated there predominantly. But it is still possible to think about their transfer from Bohemia, most likely from the Sušice surroundings, which was, as a possession of the Bavarian Counts of Bogen at that time (from the 12th century until 1242), connected through Gunther’s path with Deggendorf surroundings. The hoard could represent a separated part of a larger cash of a tradesman, which was possibly intended for hiding because of the forced exchange in the local markets.
The schizophrenia oral health profile: Development and feasibility
Authors: Frederic Denis , Corinne Rat , Matthieu Reynaud , Francesca Siu-Paredes , Stephanie Tubert-Jeannin , Nathalie Rude
Published: September 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to present the different stages of development of the Schizophrenia Oral Health Profile (SOHP) questionnaire, aimed at assessing oral disorders and their impacts on functioning and psychosocial wellbeing for patients with schizophrenia (PWS) and to give the results of a feasibility study conducted in France

Materials and methods

The first step of this qualitative study was semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 PWS and 6 health professionals (HP). A focus group integrating 4 PWS and 4 HP was also organised to identify the items of the SOHP. The data were analysed using a thematic analysis. Second, a feasibility study was conducted in a sample of 30 PWS who answered the SOHP questionnaire. The acceptability and understanding of the SOHP were evaluated, using a specific questionnaire.

Results

The semi-structured interviews and focus groups included 34 individuals in total. Items’ selection was done with several stages and led to a SOHP scale with 53 final items related to oral disorders and their impacts on functioning and psychosocial well-being. These items were classified in 13 preselected dimensions including one additional module related to the side effects of medications (11 items). The feasibility study showed good acceptability and understanding of the items of the SOHP scale.

Conclusions

The psychometric validation of the SOHP scale, involving a large sample of PWS, is currently in progress. The SOHP is important to evaluate PWS oral health needs and to offer appropriate strategies to improve oral health of this persons.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Gov NCT02730832. Date registered: 21 March, 2016.
Bisphenol A increases hydrogen peroxide generation by thyrocytes both in vivo and in vitro
Authors: da Silva Maurício Martins , Xavier Lueni Lopes Felix , Gonçalves Carlos Frederico Lima , Santos-Silva Ana Paula , Paiva-Melo Francisca Diana , de Freitas Mariana Lopes , Fortunato Rodrigo Soares , Miranda-Alves Leandro , Ferreira Andrea Claudia Freitas
Published: September 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA) is the most common monomer in polycarbonate plastics and an endocrine disruptor. Though some effects of BPA on thyroid hormone (TH) synthesis and action have been described, the impact of this compound on thyroid H2O2 generation remains elusive. H2O2 is a reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could have deleterious effect on thyrocytes if in excess. Therefore, herein we aimed at evaluating the effect of BPA exposition both in vivo and in vitro on H2O2 generation in thyrocytes, besides other essential steps for TH synthesis. Female Wistar rats were treated with vehicle (control) or BPA 40 mg/kg BW for 15 days, by gavage. We then evaluated thyroid iodide uptake, mediated by sodium-iodide symporter (NIS), thyroperoxidase (TPO) and dual oxidase (DOUX) activities (H2O2 generation). Hydrogen peroxide generation was increased, while iodide uptake and TPO activity were reduced by BPA exposition. We have also incubated the rat thyroid cell line PCCL3 with 10−9 M BPA and evaluated Nis and Duox mRNA levels, besides H2O2 generation. Similar to that found in vivo, BPA treatment also led to increased H2O2 generation in PCCL3. Nis mRNA levels were reduced and Duox2 mRNA levels were increased in BPA-exposed cells. To evaluate the importance of oxidative stress on BPA-induced Nis reduction, PCCL3 was treated with BPA in association to N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant, which reversed the effect of BPA on Nis. Our data suggest that BPA increases ROS production in thyrocytes, what could lead to oxidative damage thus possibly predisposing to thyroid disease.
Unusual high blood glucose in ketoacidosis as first presentation of type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hörber Sebastian , Hudak Sarah , Kächele Martin , Overkamp Dietrich , Fritsche Andreas , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Peter Andreas , Heni Martin
Published: September 2018

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. It usually occurs in patients with type 1 diabetes where it is typically associated with only moderately increased blood glucose. Here, we report the case of a 52-year-old female patient who was admitted to the emergency unit with severely altered mental status but stable vital signs. Laboratory results on admission revealed very high blood glucose (1687 mg/dL/93.6 mmol/L) and severe acidosis (pH <7) with proof of ketone bodies in serum and urine. Past history revealed a paranoid schizophrenia diagnosed 10 years ago and for which the patient was treated with risperidone for many years. Acute treatment with intravenous fluids, intravenous insulin infusion and sodium bicarbonate improved the symptoms. Further laboratory investigations confirmed diagnosis of autoimmune type 1 diabetes. After normalization of blood glucose levels, the patient could soon be discharged with a subcutaneous insulin therapy.

Learning points:

Diabetic ketoacidosis as first manifestation of type 1 diabetes can occur with markedly elevated blood glucose concentrations in elder patients.

Atypical antipsychotics are associated with hyperglycemia and an increased risk of new-onset diabetes.

First report of risperidone-associated diabetic ketoacidosis in new-onset type 1 diabetes.

Patients treated with atypical antipsychotics require special care and regular laboratory examinations to detect hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis.

In cases when the diagnosis is in doubt, blood gas analysis as well as determination of C-peptide and islet autoantibodies can help to establish the definite diabetes type.
Filling arms production data gaps: South America as a case in point
Authors: Lopes da Silva Diego
Published: September 2018

In this article I argue that the data collection methods and procedures behind the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI) global arms trade database can also be used to approximate domestic purchases of local production of major conventional arms. The total output of domestic arms industries would then be the sum of what is domestically retained (procured) plus arms exports, if any. The feasibility of this idea is tested by presenting new data on domestic arms production for five South American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Venezuela) between 1960 and 2015. The results show the critical role government purchases play in maintaining domestic arms industries.
Analysis of SIPRI’s arms production data: Some suggestions for expansion
Authors: Wulf Herbert
Published: September 2018

This article proposes that the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s top-100 dataset of the world's largest arms producers and military service providers be expanded to permit comparison of the value of arms/service sales not only in absolute terms across countries and time but also relative to countries’ industrial output. Specifically, the article suggests setting the sum of the arms/service sales of a country’s top-100 members in SIPRI’s list in relation to that country’s output in its machinery and equipment sector. Illustrating the suggestion with data for 2015 finds that countries such as Israel, Russia, the U.K., and the U.S. have a far greater percentage of its machinery and equipment sector vested in arms production than do countries such as France, Germany, or Japan. The article also suggests comparing a country’s top-arms producers to its top non-arms producers, that is, comparing country’s arms-makers listed in SIPRI’s top-100 list with, for example, companies in the Fortune Global 500 list. The article concludes with a discussion of methodological issues.
Arms industry data: Knowns and unknowns
Authors: Hartley Keith
Published: September 2018

This article surveys the past, present, and possible future nature and features of the global defense, arms, and security industry and associated data collection issues. It concludes with remarks on the economics of data, the public goods nature of data, and the incentive–reward system in the data market.
Tricuspid Regurgitation: A Clinical Case-based Review of the Cardioband™ Tricuspid Valve Reconstruction System
Authors: Baldus Stephan ,   Heart Centre, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
Published: September 2018

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is largely undertreated, despite its association with significant morbidity and mortality. Isolated tricuspid surgery is generally not recommended due to high risks, especially for those patients with comorbidities. Instead, individuals with severe TR are typically managed medically � however, many patients continue to experience debilitating symptoms. The Edwards Cardioband™ tricuspid valve reconstruction system is a transvenous system to treat TR. It is the first commercially available transcatheter therapy specifically developed for the treatment of TR. Initial results are promising, with positive outcomes in terms of safety, technical success and quality of life improvements. Thus, the Cardioband Tricuspid System could provide a new treatment option for TR.
MODERNIZATION OF THE DEMAND AND SUPPLY SIDES FOR GASTRONOMIC CULTURAL HERITAGE
Authors: Kruzmetra Maiga , Rivza Baiba , Foris Diana
Published: September 2018

Gastronomic cultural heritage is part of cultural heritage. Under globalisation, individuals become increasingly interested not only in cultural heritage as a whole but also in its components, e.g. gastronomic heritage. Nowadays individuals are interested in such things as traditional foods, the techniques of preparing the foods and the traditions of consuming them. Individuals wish to see gastronomic traditions not only on a national scale but also a regional and even a local scale. Previous research studies conducted in Latvia focused on the progress of cultural heritage products as value and the introduction of such products by businesses in the rural areas of Latvia. Scientific cooperation opened up opportunities to study the phenomenon of a wider geographical space covering four countries – Poland, Lithuania, Romania and Latvia. The aim of this research stage: to identify an impact of information on the demand-supply balance of gastronomic heritage as a product in the market. The method of the research: a sociological survey (n = 1000 from Poland, Lithuania, Romania and Latvia; 285 men and 715 women) that was carried out during 2016. Despite the fact that the sample groups were not representative (did not reflect the views of the entire population), the obtained data and results of this analysis provided insight into the cultural issues under today’s circumstances through the population’s views. The results of the study strengthen the need for the modernization of the information system in order to promote rural viability.
ECOLOGICAL SETTLEMENT AS A SELF-GOVERNMENT MODEL IN RURAL AREAS
Authors: Walker Kemble , Plotnikova Mariia
Published: September 2018

There is a clear need in rural areas for improved methods of self-government. This study examines the most effective approaches to administration in rural communities. What are the most promising types of rural community management? We aim to assess trends in rural selfrehabilitation and development, including an international analysis of ecological and family homestead settlements as models of future society. These models represent an evolution of the traditional village capable of improving the population's quality of life. Family homestead settlements are the most common form of ecological settlement in Ukraine and foster family values, patriotism to the Homeland and effectively demonstrate successful self-government practices. Governance is achieved by way of the Veche, a collective authority, as well as through public organizations, public-private partnerships, regional and international cooperation.
Insularity of the Study of Ancient Religions and “Religion”
Authors: Roubekas Nickolas
Published: September 2018

The article discusses the disciplinary gap between classics, ancient history, and religious studies when studying ancient religions. It addresses the lack of interdisciplinary work and collaboration which stems from a number of factors.
“They Were Talking about Themselves”
Authors: Kunze Andrew
Published: September 2018

Michael Altman’s Heathen, Hindoo, Hindu offers a major contribution to the history of Hinduism in America, as it revises the standard “Transcendentalist-Theosophist-Vivekananda-1965” trajectory with a critical eye toward the nationalist and orientalist discourses of formative episodes from the Colonial era up to Chicago’s World Parliament (xvii). Altman’s genealogical approach presumes no essence or definition of ‘Hinduism,’ which both suits his source materials and serves his interest in classification quite well. Throughout this history, a rich set of examples shows how ‘hazy notions’ of Indian religion variously served as discursive foils and straw-men against white, Protestant American identity¬–from scathing missionary accounts of barbaric ‘Juggernaut’ worship (30), to the racial hierarchies in American geography schoolbooks (59), Thoreau’s Walden Pond as a River Ganges (86), and the Indian-derived, but not Hindu, ‘wisdom religion’ of the Theosophical Society (109). As Altman convincingly argues, when white, Protestant Americans talked about religion in India, “they were not really talking about religion in India. They were talking about themselves” (xxi), and thereby constituting their own racial, national, and religious identities (140).
If Discourse Is All There Is
Authors: Rollens Sarah
Published: September 2018

This article responds to the provocative essay by Nickolas Roubekas, which deals with studying "religion" in the ancient context.
Contested or complementary? Mingling between two distinct writing pedagogies for genre instruction in one EFL undergraduate writing course
Authors: Lo Yi-Hsuan Gloria , Cheng Ying-Hsueh
Published: September 2018

This paper aims to investigate how novice EFL writers develop their genre awareness and rhetorical flexibility in a genre-based writing course that incorporates two distinct types of genres (essay and journal writing) for practice simultaneously. Three sets of qualitative and quantitative data were collected: surveys, reflection papers from 40 students, and semi-structured interviews with eight students. Descriptive statistical analysis provides an overview on students' perceptions on the two types of genres and the distinct pedagogies. Qualitative data gathered from the in-depth interviews were used to understand how learners intermingle between two distinct writing pedagogies and what the perceived impact is on students' subsequent functional writing practice. In order to explore how students developed their genre awareness (cognitive) and rhetorical flexibility (metacognitive), we draw on Grabe and Kaplan's (1996) notion of ethnography of writing: (1) the purpose of a certain genre; (2) the criteria for writing; (3) audience; and (4) their goals/expectations. The findings show that most learners attached different benefits to these two genre-based instructions, enabling them to recontextualize their writing performance when necessary. Pedagogically, this study provides alternative pedagogies to the most commonly seen dilemma for L2 writing instruction. Theoretically, this research demonstrates how contested pedagogies can be complementary to enhance our understanding of to what extent cross-genre awareness can be raised and transformed through distinct genre-based practices.
The effect of topic interest and choice in second language journal writing
Authors: Eidswick John , Asaba Mayumi
Published: September 2018

This study investigates the influences of interest and choice on the production of second language (L2) journal entries by first-year students (N = 88, 55 female, 33 male) at a university in western Japan. Between treatment groups and a neutral group, several aspects of writing were examined: total words, words per sentence, grammatical accuracy, and lexical sophistication (K1, K2, and AWL words). Further enquiry into students' preferred choice conditions was conducted with a post-treatment questionnaire. The results suggest that the provision of choice and interestingness of a topic affect some of the variables but not others. Pedagogical implications and suggested future research are discussed.
Construing emotion in academic writing
Authors: Myskow Gordon , Ono Masumi
Published: September 2018

Writing about historical change involves advancing causal explanations that show how events impact people and how their emotions contribute to historical outcomes such as wars and revolutions. This study uses Martin and White's (2005) Appraisal framework to examine how the language of emotion (Affect), an overlooked feature of historical discourse, is used by L2 writers of an under-examined genre, the Factorial Explanation. The study was conducted in a content-based, politicalhistory course for 63 upper-intermediate learners of English at a Japanese university. Results show that while writers made extensive use of the Affect categories Positive Inclination and Negative Satisfaction, which were often realized as adjectives and verbs, nominal formulations for building cohesion were infrequent. Writers also tended to intensify Affect resources by construing feelings as static attributes rather than destabilizing forces of change. The paper makes recommendations for teaching genre-specific language features to aid learners in construing the emotion of history.
Analiza rynku nieruchomości jako element diagnozy sfery gospodarczej w programach rewitalizacji w Polsce
Authors: Jadach-Sepioło Aleksandra
Published: September 2018

The real estate market is rarely analysed as a component of economic assessments during the preparation of urban regeneration programs, though low real estate prices and their limited liquidity are often main reasons for a degraded area’s lack of attractiveness. The potential increase in the value of real estate may also be one of the basic motivators to engage in property revitalisation activities.The article presents the potential of the real estate market analyses in the context of delimiting degraded areas in urban regeneration programs and the attendant study of the economy.
Warunki i decyzje mieszkaniowe seniorów na lokalnym rynku nieruchomości
Authors: Strączkowski Łukasz , Boruta Marcin
Published: September 2018

According to experts, continuous population aging will bring about numerous changes on the housing market. There is widening discussion on the provision of adequate care for the elderly, matching housing to seniors’ preferences and expectations, and decisions related to the prospective changes of their housing conditions and the choice of a new home. The paper contributes to the debate, showing the housing situation of older people. In order to achieve the aim, a questionnaire survey was conducted among senior citizens examining their housing situation.The research findings show that seniors want to age in place as long as possible with the assistance of formal or informal helpers. Moreover, younger groups of seniors tend to be more open to living in senior housing estates as well as for co-housing in exchange for help. Seniors that live independently would rather move into a nursing home, either private or public.
Taksonomiczna miara zrównoważonego rozwoju obszarów metropolitalnych w Polsce
Authors: Koszel Maciej , Bartkowiak Piotr
Published: September 2018

The article examines the problem of measuring the sustainable development of local self-government units that constitute metropolitan areas (MA) in Poland. In order to evaluate and compile sustainable development rankings, a taxonomic method, Hellwig̛s standard method, was chosen. Drawing on Central Statistical Office (GUS) data from 2015, an assessment was made of 345 municipalities and cities forming eight Polish metropolitan areas in five dimensions: economic, social, ecological, spatial and overall (mega aggregate). The level of sustainability of local government units shows a clear dependence on their location, population, type and area. A higher level of sustainable development in the economic, social and spatial aspects is demonstrated by urban units located in the central zone and with a population of over 50,000 inhabitants (Warsaw MA). With respect to environmental sustainability rural, peripheral and smaller populations (Szczecin MA and Lodz MA) show better assessment scores.
Zastosowanie taksonomii do aktualizacji wartości zabezpieczenia hipotecznego nieruchomości mieszkaniowych w bankach na przykładzie Wrocławia
Authors: Bywalec Magdalena , Makowska Anita
Published: September 2018

The Polish Financial Supervision Authority̛s regulations on credit risk management in bank portfolios require banks to update the value of real estate that provides collateral for mortgages. Using statistical analysis to determine the value of real estate on the Polish market, scientists and market practitioners are working on other methods of determining the value of real estate, as specified in the Regulation of the Council of Ministers of 21 September 2004 on the Real Estate Valuation and Appraisal Report.The paper explains the uses and consequences of taxonomy to update the value of mortgage collateral in banks. It presents a comparison of a traditional real estate valuation method, paired comparison, with the effects of the valuation of the taxonomic method pattern.  As a result of updating the value of residential property portfolios held by banks, done at the end of 2016, there were 50 valuations corrected in minus and 47 in plus. Updating the value of the real estate portfolio using based on taxonomic analysis indicated 29 corrections in minus and 68 corrections in plus in variant I and 32 in minus and 65 in plus in variant II. There was a noticeable increase in value, which results in a higher value of the portfolio, which in variant I reached PLN 33 742 098.85 in variant II PLN 33 754 650.85. In both variants, the value of the real estate portfolio increased after the pattern update.
Odpowiedzialność odszkodowawcza państwa z tytułu rozwoju infrastruktury drogowej
Authors: Tomecki Marcin
Published: September 2018

Developing the road infrastructure is expensive, with the costs including not only for construction and maintenance but also the payment of compensation for damages. The main aim of this research is to identify the investorʼs scope of responsibility for the development of the road infrastructure and its impact on cost growth. The subject of research is the responsibility the State Treasury bears for developing infrastructure in selected road investments. An analysis of legal regulations governing the State Treasury’s liability and judicial decisions in this area has been conducted. The results of research lead to several conclusions. The responsibility of the State Treasury for expropriating road construction is limited and does not include lost benefits. The most common reason damages are paid by the investor is damage caused by noise and vibration. Claims are more effectively recovered if the property is located in a Restricted Use Zone. The scope of responsibility for noise and vibrations include damages on personality rights too.
Ceny ziemi rolnej w Polsce na tle Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Firlej Krzysztof , Kubala Sebastian
Published: September 2018

Long before Poland̛s accession to the European Union, the prices of agricultural land were of interest not only to potential investors in the agri-food sector, but also to speculators, whom agroeconomists were tasked with monitoring. The aim of this study was to assess changes in agricultural land prices in Poland compared to the European Union and to identify variables that strongly depend on the average level of prices of agricultural land in the European Union. This article also demonstrates that in EU countries there is a significant correlation between agricultural land prices and the value of direct payments and the value of gross domestic product per capita.
Conventional and Extended Versions of Means-end Chain Theory
Authors: Borgardt Elena
Published: September 2018

This methodological and concept paper reviews the role and complexity of the recently emerged yet already well-established value-based cognitive model – Means-end Chain (MEC). The paper compares the most commonly used approaches to MEC. It examines the compatibility of available models with the theory behind MEC, reveal the conceptual gaps and outlines opportunities for future research. Leading papers, books and publications on MEC address either technical aspects of the theory or the interaction of MEC and values. The present paper paves the way for understanding the MEC from a novel, motivational perspective by integrating micro- and macro-levels into the theory.The theoretical framework is based on a critical view of the scientific literature and includes the identification of methodologies focusing on laddering techniques, statistical methods and programmes to plot Hierarchical Value Maps. Particular attention is paid to extended MEC models intersecting with value instruments (RVS, LOV), lifestyle approaches (AIOs, RISC, CCA, FRL, etc.), dual process models (the Elaboration Likelihood Model and the Heuristic-systematic Model) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. These are used to outline the prospects prevailing in modern marketing and consumer research.The results of the investigation point to opportunities for enlarging the latitude of MEC by integrating micro and macro elements to enhance the model with symbolism, dynamics and multi-dimensionality.
Response to Oral Immediate-Release Opioids for Breakthrough Pain in Patients with Advanced Cancer with Adequately Controlled Background Pain
Authors: Azhar Ahsan , Kim Yu Jung , Haider Ali , Hui David , Balankari Vishidha R. , Epner Margeaux Chiou , Park Minjeong , Liu Diane D. , Williams Janet , Frisbee-Hume Susan E. , Allo Julio A. , Bruera Eduardo
Published: September 2018

Background

There is limited evidence about the response of breakthrough pain (BTP) to the most commonly used oral immediate-release (IR) opioids. Our aim was to determine response rate to oral IR opioids for BTP control in patients with advanced cancer.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective study, palliative care outpatients, with advanced cancer and adequately managed background pain, were asked to complete a self-administered survey. We assessed patients’ baseline demographics, pain characteristics, alcoholism (CAGE questionnaire), tobacco and substance abuse, and Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scores (ESAS). We determined the effectiveness of oral IR BTP opioids by using a 7-point Likert scale ranging from “very ineffective” to “very effective.” “Effective” and “very effective” were defined a priori as a good response to IR opioids for BTP.

Results

Of 592 evaluable patients, 192 (32%) had background pain of ≤3 (ESAS pain scale 0–10). Among these 192 patients, 152 (79%) reported BTP, 143/152 (94%) took oral IR opioids for BTP, and 127/143 (89%) responded to a median dose of 10% of the total morphine equivalent daily dose. In univariate logistic regression analysis, younger age (odds ratio [OR], 0.94 per year; p = .008), higher ESAS scores for pain (OR, 1.32; p = .012), anxiety (OR, 1.24; p = .017), and dyspnea (OR, 1.31; p = .007) had statistically significant association with poor response to IR opioids for BTP. In multicovariate logistic regression, adjusted for age, a higher ESAS dyspnea score was significantly associated with poor response to oral IR opioids (OR, 1.44; p = .002).

Conclusion

The vast majority of patients with advanced cancer with adequately controlled background pain reported a good response to oral IR opioids for BTP, supporting their use in clinical practice.

Implications for Practice

Oral immediate-release opioids are standard treatment for cancer breakthrough pain. However, information regarding treatment response to these commonly used opioids is limited. This study provides information that the vast majority of patients with advanced cancer, with adequately controlled background pain, reported good response to oral immediate release opioids for managing their breakthrough pain episodes. Results of this study support the use of conventional oral immediate release opioids that are relatively inexpensive and readily available for management of breakthrough pain in patients with advanced cancer.
A Phase II Trial of Pazopanib in Patients with Metastatic Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma
Authors: Kim Miso , Kim Tae Min , Keam Bhumsuk , Kim Yu Jung , Paeng Jin Chul , Moon Kyung Chul , Kim Dong-Wan , Heo Dae Seog
Published: September 2018

Lessons Learned

Pazopanib shows a modest efficacy in metastatic alveolar soft part sarcoma. Clinical outcomes were comparable to those in previous studies using antiangiogenic drugs. Further prospective studies evaluating the benefit of pazopanib in alveolar soft part sarcoma with a larger sample are warranted to validate results.

Background

Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare mesenchymal malignant tumor characterized by an unbalanced translocation, t(X;17)(p11.2;q25), which leads to the fusion of ASPSCR1 to the TFE3 transcription factor. Because this results in the upregulation of angiogenesis-related transcripts, antiangiogenic drugs have been used in ASPS patients.

Methods

This open-label, single-arm, multicenter, investigator-initiated phase II trial was designed to evaluate efficacy and safety of pazopanib 800 mg once daily in patients with metastatic ASPS. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed overall response rate (ORR), and secondary endpoints were toxicity, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). 68Ga-RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) positron emission tomography (PET) scan and gene expression profiling using NanoString platform were performed for biomarker analysis.

Results

Six patients with histologically confirmed metastatic ASPS were enrolled between December 2013 and November 2014. Among six patients, one achieved a partial response (PR) (ORR 16.7%) and five patients showed stable disease (SD). With a median follow-up of 33 months (range 18.7–39.3 months), median PFS was 5.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.4–7.6 months), and median OS was not reached. There were no severe toxicities except one patient with grade 3 diarrhea.

Conclusion

Pazopanib showed modest antitumor activity with manageable toxicities for patients with metastatic ASPS.
Durability evaluation of self-compacting concrete with recycled aggregates from the precast industry
Authors: Santos Sara Almeida , da Silva Pedro Raposeiro , de Brito Jorge
Published: September 2018

This paper describes an experimental campaign developed with the aim of evaluating the influence of the incorporation of fine and coarse recycled aggregates (FRA and CRA, respectively) on the durability properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC). The main objective is to provide the precast industry with an alternative way of disposal and recovery of self-generated waste, minimising the consumption of natural resources and, consequently, significantly reducing the environmental impact associated with the manufacture of concrete. For this purpose, two families of concrete were produced, distinct in terms of the compressive strength of the source concrete of the recycled aggregates (45 MPa and 65 MPa), with FRA/CRA incorporation ratios of 0/0%, 25/25%, 50/50%, 0/100% and 100/0%. To evaluate the durability of the concretes, tests for water absorption, capillary absorption, oxygen permeability, electrical resistivity, chloride penetration and carbonation resistance were performed in the hardened state. The results revealed that the concrete mixes with recycled aggregate incorporated showed worse performance than the reference mixes. However, taking all the studied properties into account, it is possible to conclude that recycled aggregates from the precast concrete industry are of very good quality and can be incorporated in the production of SCC with ratios of 25/25% and 0/100% as recommended limits.
Avaliação das Apreensões de Benzodiazepínicos na Cidade de Recife – PE, Brasil
Authors: Adrielle Helaine Cardoso Santana  , Antonio Gomes de Castro Neto
Published: September 2018

Os benzodiazepínicos são as principais substâncias utilizadas no tratamento dos transtornos do sono e da ansiedade. Devido ao aumento do uso dessas substâncias nos últimos anos, um importante mercado ilegal de benzodiazepínicos tem surgido. Este trabalho tem por objetivo avaliar as apreensões de benzodiazepínicos na cidade de Recife – PE, Brasil, uma das mais importantes cidades da região Nordeste do país. O banco de dados da pesquisa “Apreensões de drogas em Recife – Uma avaliação” foi consultado para estabelecer o perfil das apreensões de benzodiazepínicos entre 2001 a 2015. Ocorreu um aumento nas apreensões de benzodiazepínicos tendo o ano de 2013 o maior número de casos de apreensões (N = 69). A maioria dos casos (68%) foi de benzodiazepínicos apreendidos em conjunto com outra droga ilícita como maconha (p = 0,0032) ou crack (p = 0,0032) e o clonazepam foi o benzodiazepínico mais comum apreendido (78%). A maioria dos casos de apreensões ocorreu no bairro do Sancho no qual está localizado o maior complexo prisional do estado de Pernambuco. Além de serem substâncias que podem causar dependência química, os benzodiazepínicos também estão associados com casos de suicídio e acidentes de trânsito. O uso indiscriminado dessas substâncias pode provocar sérios problemas para a sociedade, necessitando-se de um melhor controle ao seu acesso.
Single Nuclei RNA Sequencing of Breast Adipose Tissue (10x Nuclei-Seq) v1
Authors: Nee Kevin , Nguyen Quy , Kessenbrock Kai
Published: September 2018

Breast cancer originates in the mammary gland epithelium, however growing evidence demonstrates that the diverse array of stromal tissues influence the behavior of breast epithelium and has key roles in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Despite increased recognition and research, the heterogeneity of the breast stroma (endothelium, fibroblasts, and adipocytes) poses challenges in elucidating which stromal populations are responsible for the complex interactions of the breast microenvironment. To this end, we have employed single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) of the stromal populations within the breast. However adipose tissue, due to its delicate and lipid filled nature is not amenable to these methods of interrogation. To overcome this obstacle, we have developed a method for isolation of adipose nuclei for 10x sequencing. Together, we will use these approaches to investigate the heterogeneity of stroma and adipocytes, and determine the interactions of the breast microenvironment at single-cell resolution.
In vitro ?-amylase inhibitory assay v6
Authors: Rubi Segura Campos Maira
Published: September 2018

The assay was carried out following the protocol reported by Dineshkumar et al. [10]. Starch (2 mg) was suspended in a tube containing 0.2 mL of 0.5 M Tris-HCl (Sigma-Aldrich, USA) buffer (pH 6.9) with 0.01 M calcium chloride as substrate. The tube was boiled for 5 min and then preincubated at 37 °C for 5 min. Plant aqueous extract (1 mg) was dissolved with 1 mL of 0.1% of dimethyl sulfoxide in order to obtain a concentration of 1,000µg/mL; then 0.2 mL of aqueous extract was added to the tube containing the substrate solution, 0.1 mL of porcine pancreatic amylase in Tris-HCl buffer (2 U/mL) was also added, and incubated for 10 min at 37°C. Finally, the reaction was stopped with 0.5 mL of acetic acid (50% v/v) and centrifuged 5 min at 1,811 × g and 4 °C. The assay was performed in triplicate. The a-amylase inhibitory activity was calculated using the formula (Ac+) – (Ac-) – (As - Ab)/(Ac+) – (Ac-) × 100, where Ac+, Ac-, As, Ab are defined as the absorbance(595 nm) of 100% enzyme activity (only solvent with enzyme), 0% enzyme activity (only solvent without enzyme), test sample (with enzyme), and a blank (a test sample without enzyme), respectively
Pessoas com surdez e suas relações com a sexualidade: silenciamentos e descobertas
Authors: De Oliveira Dreyer Lenita Regina , Rodrigues Mateus Marcia Aparecida , Peres Gonçalves Josiane
Published: September 2018

O objetivo do estudo é identificar a opinião de jovens surdos sobre assuntos inerentes à sexualidade, evidenciando como foi a participação familiar e escolar na construção deste conhecimento. A pesquisa de campo, foi realizada por meio de gravação de entrevistas, mediada por uma intérprete, com três jovens surdos, sendo primeiramente filmadas e posteriormente transcritas, da libras para o português. Os resultados apontam que, assim como muitos outros sujeitos surdos, os entrevistados passaram por um processo de incomunicabilidade e de censura de informações acerca da sexualidade, tanto por parte da família, que muitas vezes quer preservar esses sujeitos, quanto por parte da escola, por falta de uma didática apropriada.
Plantas Medicinais Utilizadas na Região de Diamantina (MG), Cerrado e Campo Rupestre da Serra do Espinhaço (MG)
Authors: Campos Paloma Caroline de Lima , Avelar-Freitas Bethânia Alves
Published: September 2018

O uso de plantas medicinais é praticado na medicina popular, sobretudo, nos países em desenvolvimento. As plantas medicinais são elementos que constituem parte da biodiversidade e são largamente utilizadas desde os primórdios da civilização por vários povos e de diversas maneiras. Estas plantas têm se mostrado de importante relevância como medicamentos caseiros, visto que em suas composições possuem constituintes químicos eficazes para o tratamento de certas doenças. Neste estudo, o objetivo foi realizar uma revisão bibliográfica acerca das plantas medicinais utilizadas no município de Diamantina (MG) e seus entornos, a fim de compilar as informações obtidas para auxiliar nos avanços dos estudos. Utilizando os descritores Plantas medicinais, Diamantina e fitoterápicos foram encontrados 10 artigos, sendo as plantas mais citadas as espécies: Ageratum fastigiatum e Euphorbia tirucalli, as quais apresentaram as atividades sobre células do sistema imune em estudos in vitro. Novas pesquisas e estudos ainda são necessários para comprovação de propriedades farmacológicas e padronização do uso, portanto, ainda há poucas informações sobre a segurança e a confiabilidade das plantas medicinais e novos estudos devem ser apurados acerca do assunto.Palavras-chave: Plantas Medicinais. Vale do Jequitinhonha. Diamantina.AbstractThe use of medicinal plants is practiced by many populations, especially in developing countries. Medicinal plants are elements that constitute part of biodiversity and have been widely used since the dawn of civilization by various peoples and in various ways. They have been shown to be of significant relevance as home remedies, since in their compositions they have effectice chemical constituents for the treatment of certain diseases. In this work the objective was to carry out a bibliographical review about the medicinal plants used in the city of Diamantina (MG) and its surroundings, in order to compile the obtained information to support in the studies advances. Using the descriptors Medicinal plants, Diamantina and phytorerapics, 10 articles were found, the most cited being the species Ageratum fastigiatum and Euphorbia tirucalli, which presented the activities on the cells of the immune system in vitro studies. New research and studies are still necessary to prove pharmacological properties and standardization of the use, therefore, there is still little information about the safety and reliability of medicinal plants and new studies should be determined on the subject.Keywords: Medicinal Plants. Jequitinhonha Valley. Diamantina.
Os Saberes Matemáticos na Formação de Professores Efetivos no Paraná da Primeira República
Authors: França Iara Da Silva , Claras Antonio Flavio
Published: September 2018

Os professores primários paranaenses denominados efetivos tinham formação diferente daquela ofertada pela Escola Normal e possuíam, em sua maioria, somente o Curso Primário. Nos estudos aqui apresentados interessou-nos saber que saberes matemáticos o curso primário proporcionava a esses futuros professores efetivos durante a Primeira República. Amparados na história cultural, buscamos respostas nos documentos oficiais pertinentes, em especial, nos Programas de Ensino. O estudo evidencia para os professores efetivos da Primeira República uma formação geral, com os saberes necessários a ensinar, carecendo em grande medida, dos saberes para ensinar matemática. As mudanças ocorridas nos Programas buscavam sustentar a finalidade do ensino primário, sem proporcionar a formação para ensinar, visto não ser essa a sua finalidade.Palavras-chave: História da Educação. Formação de Professores. Saberes Matemáticos.AbstractThe primary teachers of Paraná called effective had different formation from that offered by the Normal School and had, in their majority, only the Primary Course. In the studies presented here, we were interested to know what mathematical knowledge the primary course provided to these future effective teachers during the First Republic. Based on cultural history, we seek answers in the pertinent official documents, especially in the Teaching Programs. The study shows for the effective teachers of the First Republic a general formation, with the necessary knowledge to teach, lacking in great measure, the knowledge to teach mathematics. The changes that occurred in the Programs sought to support the purpose of primary education, without providing the training to teach, since this is not its purpose.Keyword: History of Education. Mathematical Education. Mathematical Knowledge.