bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLGA/nHA hybrid nanofiber scaffold as a nanocargo carrier of insulin for accelerating bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Haider Adnan , Gupta Kailash Chandra , Kang Inn-Kyu
Published: June 2014

The development of tissue engineering in the field of orthopedic surgery is booming. Two fields of research in particular have emerged: approaches for tailoring the surface properties of implantable materials with osteoinductive factors as well as evaluation of the response of osteogenic cells to these fabricated implanted materials (hybrid material). In the present study, we chemically grafted insulin onto the surface of hydroxyapatite nanorods (nHA). The insulin-grafted nHAs (nHA-I) were dispersed into poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) polymer solution, which was electrospun to prepare PLGA/nHA-I composite nanofiber scaffolds. The morphology of the electrospun nanofiber scaffolds was assessed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). After extensive characterization of the PLGA/nHA-I and PLGA/nHA composite nanofiber scaffolds by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the PLGA/nHA-I and PLGA/nHA (used as control) composite nanofiber scaffolds were subjected to cell studies. The results obtained from cell adhesion, alizarin red staining, and Von Kossa assay suggested that the PLGA/nHA-I composite nanofiber scaffold has enhanced osteoblastic cell growth, as more cells were proliferated and differentiated. The fact that insulin enhanced osteoblastic cell proliferation will open new possibilities for the development of artificial scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration.
Synthesis of mixed-sequence oligonucleotides on mesoporous silicon: chemical strategies and material stability
Authors: Terracciano Monica , Rea Ilaria , Stefano Luca De , Rendina Ivo , Oliviero Giorgia , Nici Fabrizia , D'Errico Stefano , Piccialli Gennaro , Borbone Nicola
Published: June 2014

Rapid screening tests in medical diagnostic and environmental analysis are often based on oligonucleotide biochips. In this paper, we studied the stability of functionalized mesoporous silicon supports in the solid-phase synthesis of oligonucleotides, exploiting several chemical procedures. A 19-mer mixed sequence has been successfully synthesized on aminosilane-modified porous silicon photonic structures. The process and the materials have been characterized by optical reflectivity, atomic force microscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography.
Local ecological knowledge of the artisanal fishers on Epinephelus itajara (Lichtenstein, 1822) (Teleostei: Epinephelidae) on Ilhéus coast – Bahia State, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Harildon M , Reuss-Strenzel Gil M , Alves Johnatas A , Schiavetti Alexandre
Published: June 2014

Background

Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) of traditional fishermen may be the only source of information regarding the conservation of the marine ecosystem and its endangered species. One of these species is Epinephelus itajara, which can exceed 2 m in length and 400 kg weight, is classified by the IUCN as a critically endangered. In Brazil, there is currently a moratorium that prohibits the capture of this specie, and in the northeastern coast, a Marine Protected Area was recently established properly justified by the existence a one spawning aggregation. The scope of the present study was the analysis the LEK of fishers with the goal of contributing to the conservation of E. Itajara.

Methods

The Knowledge of 24 “experts” was recorded through semi-structured interviews with fishermen selected based on their expertise. LEK regarding some aspects of the life history of E. itajara, such as its morphology, spatial distribution, feeding, breeding and conservation, was systematized. The interviews were conducted in synchronic and diachronic situations. The data analysis followed the model of unity of the various individual skills, while the consistency of the analysis was tested using a matrix of methods employed in comparative cognitive science. Potential reproductive aggregation sites were identified by experts through projective interviews conducted based on a cartographic database and transferred to a geographic information system (GIS).

Results

The LEK of these specialists in relation to the biological and ecological characteristics of E. itajara showed a high level of detail and a high agreement with the scientific literature. Projective interviews are presented as a promising tool allowing spatialization of the information generated through the registration of LEK. Therefore, the visualization of information from the fishermen, as well as its analysis and comparison with other databases, is simplified, thereby contributing to the decision-making process concerning the conservation of marine ecosystem in Brazil.

Conclusions

Integration of LEK with scientific knowledge is an efficient strategy for the conservation of endangered species, as it provides important additional biological information that can be used in the process of participative and sustainable management of marine resources.
Carcinoma of the larynx, metastatic to illeum, presents as ruptured appendicitis: Case report and literature review
Authors: Glicksman Jordan T , Bottoni David , Shepherd Jessica , Parry Neil , Franklin Jason H
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Metastasis of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) to the intra-abdominal gastrointestinal tract is exceedingly rare. The objectives of this case report are to describe a case involving a perforated metastasis of a laryngeal SCC to the ileum and to review the literature pertaining to other similar cases.

Methods

A review of patient's chart and a review of the English literature involving malignant SCC of the larynx with metastasis to the small bowel.

Results

We describe the case of a 58-year-old man who had failed induction chemotherapy and underwent a laryngopharyngectomy with bilateral neck dissection and pectoralis major flap for a T4N2c laryngeal SCC. Subsequently, the patient was treated with postoperative radiation and cituximab. The patient went on to present with symptoms consistent with a ruptured appendix, supported by ultrasound imaging. The patient was taken to the operating room where a right hemicolectomy was performed. Pathological gross examination confirmed a 4 cm transmural perforation in the terminal ileum. Microscopy demonstrated deposits of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma in the surrounding smooth muscle. Metastatic carcinoma was also found in a separate nodule from the abdominal wall. The patient had an uncomplicated post-operative period, and survived several months thereafter.

Conclusions

Metastasis of laryngeal SCC to the small bowel with perforation is exceedingly rare, but possible. These patients may be successfully managed with resection.
Drug-drug interactions in inpatient and outpatient settings in Iran: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Nabovati Ehsan , Vakili-Arki Hasan , Taherzadeh Zhila , Hasibian Mohammad Reza , Abu-Hanna Ameen , Eslami Saeid
Published: June 2014

Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) are an important type of adverse drug events. Yet overall incidence and pattern of DDIs in Iran has not been well documented and little information is available about the strategies that have been used for their prevention. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature on the incidence and pattern of DDIs in Iran as well as the used strategies for their prevention. PubMed, Scopus, electronic Persian databases, and Google Scholar were searched to identify published studies on DDIs in Iran. Additionally, the reference lists of all retrieved articles were reviewed to identify additional relevant articles. Eligible studies were those that analyzed original data on the incidence of DDIs in inpatient or outpatient settings in Iran. Articles about one specific DDI and drug interactions with herbs, diseases, and nutrients were excluded. The quality of included studies was assessed using quality assessment criteria. Database searches yielded 1053 potentially eligible citations. After removing duplicates, screening titles and abstracts, and reading full texts, 34 articles were found to be relevant. The quality assessment of the included studies showed a relatively poor quality. In terms of study setting, 18 and 16 studies have been conducted in inpatient and outpatient settings, respectively. All studies focused on potential DDIs while no study assessed actual DDIs. The median incidence of potential DDIs in outpatient settings was 8.5% per prescription while it was 19.2% in inpatient settings. The most indicated factor influencing DDIs incidence was patient age. The most involved drug classes in DDIs were beta blockers, angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), diuretic agents, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Thirty-one studies were observational and three were experimental in which the strategies to reduce DDIs were applied. Although almost all studies concluded that the incidence of potential DDIs in Iran in both inpatient and outpatient settings was relatively high, there is still no evidence of the incidence of actual DDIs. More extensive research is needed to identify and minimize factors associated with incidence of DDIs, and to evaluate the effects of preventive interventions especially those that utilize information technology.
Evaluation of antioxidant activities of extracts from 19 Chinese edible flowers
Authors: Zeng Youwei , Deng Maocheng , Lv Zhencheng , Peng Yonghong
Published: June 2014

Extracts of 19 selected edible flowers were investigated for their free radical scavenging activity (FRSA), polyphenolic contents and flavonoid contents in the paper. The results showed the extracts of Paeonia suffruticosa Andr., Paeonia lactiflora Pall., and Rosa rugosa Thunb. possessed obviously stronger DPPH FRSA (94.221 ± 0.102; 93.739 ± 0.424 and 94.244 ± 0.163%, respectively), superoxide FRSA (55.818 ± 1.518; 52.142 ± 1.374 and 57.321 ± 0.608%, respectively), hydroxyl FRSA (85.872 ± 0.873; 89.307 ± 0.803 and 88.560 ± 0.277%, respectively) and polyphenolic contents (96.208 ± 0.689; 87.938 ± 1.187 and 92.164 ± 0.799 mg CE/g, respectively) that were superior or comparable to black and green teas. Polyphenolic contents did correlate well with DPPH FRSA (r = 0.943, P < 0.01), superoxide FRSA (r = 0.833, P < 0.01), and hydroxyl FRSA (r = 0.500, P < 0.05). It indicated that this potent FRSA may be attributed to its phenolic compounds. These findings showed that the tested flowers could be considered as new sources of safe natural antioxidants and preservatives of food industry.
A system of nonlinear set valued variational inclusions
Authors: Tang Yong-Kun , Chang Shih-sen , Salahuddin Salahuddin
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we studied the existence theorems and techniques for finding the solutions of a system of nonlinear set valued variational inclusions in Hilbert spaces. To overcome the difficulties, due to the presence of a proper convex lower semicontinuous functionϕand a mappinggwhich appeared in the considered problems, we have used the resolvent operator technique to suggest an iterative algorithm to compute approximate solutions of the system of nonlinear set valued variational inclusions. The convergence of the iterative sequences generated by algorithm is also proved.

AMS Mathematics subject classification

49J40; 47H06
Targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines following joint injury: acute intra-articular inhibition of interleukin-1 following knee injury prevents post-traumatic arthritis
Authors: Furman Bridgette D , Mangiapani Daniel S , Zeitler Evan , Bailey Karsyn N , Horne Phillip H , Huebner Janet L , Kraus Virginia B , Guilak Farshid , Olson Steven A
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Post-traumatic arthritis (PTA) is a progressive, degenerative response to joint injury, such as articular fracture. The pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin 1(IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), are acutely elevated following joint injury and remain elevated for prolonged periods post-injury. To investigate the role of local and systemic inflammation in the development of post-traumatic arthritis, we targeted both the initial acute local inflammatory response and a prolonged 4 week systemic inflammatory response by inhibiting IL-1 or TNF-α following articular fracture in the mouse knee.

Methods

Anti-cytokine agents, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) or soluble TNF receptor II (sTNFRII), were administered either locally via an acute intra-articular injection or systemically for a prolonged 4 week period following articular fracture of the knee in C57BL/6 mice. The severity of arthritis was then assessed at 8 weeks post-injury in joint tissues via histology and micro computed tomography, and systemic and local biomarkers were assessed in serum and synovial fluid.

Results

Intra-articular inhibition of IL-1 significantly reduced cartilage degeneration, synovial inflammation, and did not alter bone morphology following articular fracture. However, systemic inhibition of IL-1, and local or systemic inhibition of TNF provided no benefit or conversely led to increased arthritic changes in the joint tissues.

Conclusion

These results show that intra-articular IL-1, rather than TNF-α, plays a critical role in the acute inflammatory phase of joint injury and can be inhibited locally to reduce post-traumatic arthritis following a closed articular fracture. Targeted local inhibition of IL-1 following joint injury may represent a novel treatment option for PTA.
Impairment of cardiac metabolism and sympathetic innervation after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a nuclear medicine imaging study
Authors: Prunet Bertrand , Basely Mathieu , D’Aranda Erwan , Cambefort Pierre , Pons Frédéric , Cimarelli Sébastien , Dagain Arnaud , Desse Nicolas , Veyrieres Jean-Brice , Jego Christophe , Lacroix Guillaume , Esnault Pierre , Boret Henry , Goutorbe Philippe , Bussy Emmanuel , Habib Gilbert , Meaudre Eric
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Although aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is often complicated by myocardial injury, whether this neurogenic cardiomyopathy is associated with the modification of cardiac metabolism is unknown. This study sought to explore, by positron emission tomography/computed tomography, the presence of altered cardiac glucose metabolism after SAH.

Methods

During a 16-month period, 30 SAH acute phase patients underwent myocardial 18 F- fluorodesoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDGPET), 99mTc-tetrofosmin and 123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine (123I-mIBG) scintigraphy, respectively, assessing glucose metabolism, cardiac perfusion, and sympathetic innervation. Patients with initial abnormalities were followed monthly for two months for 18F-FDG, and six months later for 123I-mIBG.

Results

In this SAH population, acute cardiac metabolic disturbance was observed in 83% of patients (n = 25), and sympathetic innervation disturbance affected 90% (n = 27). Myocardial perfusion was normal for all patients. The topography and extent of metabolic defects and innervation abnormalities largely overlapped. Follow-up showed rapid improvement of glucose metabolism in one or two months. Normalization of sympathetic innervation was slower; only 27% of patients (n = 8) exhibited normal 123I-mIBG scintigraphy after six months. Presence of initial altered cardiac metabolism was not associated with more unfavorable cardiac or neurological outcomes.

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis of neurogenic myocardial stunning after SAH. In hemodynamically stable acute phase SAH patients, cardiomyopathy is characterized by diffuse and heterogeneous 18F-FDG and 123I-mIBG uptake defect.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01218191. Registered 6 October 2010.
Conserved microRNA editing in mammalian evolution, development and disease
Authors: Warnefors Maria , Liechti Angélica , Halbert Jean , Valloton Delphine , Kaessmann Henrik
Published: June 2014

Background

Mammalian microRNAs (miRNAs) are sometimes subject to adenosine-to-inosine RNA editing, which can lead to dramatic changes in miRNA target specificity or expression levels. However, although a few miRNAs are known to be edited at identical positions in human and mouse, the evolution of miRNA editing has not been investigated in detail. In this study, we identify conserved miRNA editing events in a range of mammalian and non-mammalian species.

Results

We demonstrate deep conservation of several site-specific miRNA editing events, including two that date back to the common ancestor of mammals and bony fishes some 450 million years ago. We also find evidence of a recent expansion of an edited miRNA family in placental mammals and show that editing of these miRNAs is associated with changes in target mRNA expression during primate development and aging. While global patterns of miRNA editing tend to be conserved across species, we observe substantial variation in editing frequencies depending on tissue, age and disease state: editing is more frequent in neural tissues compared to heart, kidney and testis; in older compared to younger individuals; and in samples from healthy tissues compared to tumors, which together suggests that miRNA editing might be associated with a reduced rate of cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Our results show that site-specific miRNA editing is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism, which increases the functional diversity of mammalian miRNA transcriptomes. Furthermore, we find that although miRNA editing is rare compared to editing of long RNAs, miRNAs are greatly overrepresented among conserved editing targets.
Measurements of bone tunnel size in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: 2D versus 3D computed tomography model
Authors: Crespo Bernardo , Aga Cathrine , Wilson Katharine J , Pomeroy Shannon M , LaPrade Robert F , Engebretsen Lars , Wijdicks Coen A
Published: June 2014

Background

Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction requires a precise evaluation of previous tunnel locations and diameters. Enlargement of the tunnels, despite not usually affecting primary reconstruction outcomes, plays an important role in revision ACL management. Three dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) models are reported to be the most accurate method for identifying the tunnel position and possible conflicts with a revision tunnel placement. However, the ability of 3D CT to measure the tunnel size is still not proven. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of measuring the size of the bone tunnels in ACL reconstructed knees with 3D CT compared to the traditional two dimensional (2D) CT method.

Methods

Twenty-four patients had CT scans performed immediately following ACL reconstruction surgery. Their femoral tunnels size were measured by a standard 2D CT measurement and then compared with three novel 3D CT measuring methods: the best transverse section method, the best fit cylinder method and the wall thickness method. The drill size used during surgery was used as a control measure for the tunnel width. Intra-class correlation coefficients were obtained.

Results

The intra-class correlation coefficient and respective 95% confidence interval range (ICC [95%CI]) for the three methods compared with the drill sizes were 0.899 [0.811-0.947] for the best transverse section method, 0.745 [0.553-0.862] for the best fit cylinder method, −0.004 [−0.081 to −0.12] for the wall thickness method and 0.922 [0.713-0.97] for the 2D CT method. The mean differences compared to the drill size were 0.02 mm for the best fit transverse section method, 0.01 mm for the best fit cylinder diameter method, 3.34 mm for the wall thickness method and 0.29 mm for the 2D CT method. The intra-rater agreement (ICC [95%CI]) was excellent for the best transverse section method 0.999 [0.998-0.999] and the 2D CT method 0.969 [0.941-0.984].

Conclusions

The 3D best transverse section method presented a high correlation to the drill sizes and high intra-rater agreement, and was the best method for ACL tunnel evaluation in a 3D CT based model.
The KASH protein Kms2 coordinates mitotic remodeling of the spindle pole body
Authors: Wälde Sarah , King Megan C.
Published: June 2014

Defects in the biogenesis of the spindle pole body (SPB), the yeast centrosome equivalent, can lead to monopolar spindles and mitotic catastrophe. The KASH domain protein Kms2 and SUN domain protein Sad1 colocalize within the nuclear envelope (NE) at the site of SPB attachment during interphase and at the spindle poles during mitosis in S. pombe. We show that Kms2 interacts with the essential SPB components Cut12 and Pcp1 and the Polo kinase, Plo1. Depletion of Kms2 delays mitotic entry and leads to defects in the insertion of the SPB into the NE, disrupting stable bipolar spindle formation. These effects are mediated in part by a delay in recruitment of Plo1 to the SPB at mitotic entry. Plo1 activity supports mitotic SPB remodeling by driving a burst of incorporation of Cut12 and Pcp1. Thus, a fission yeast SUN-KASH complex plays an important role in supporting remodeling of the SPB at mitotic entry.
Photodimerization of 4-Aryl-1,4-dihydropyridines in 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate
Authors: He Jing-Yu , Jia Hui-Zhen , Yao Qing-Guo , Liu Si-Jie , Yue Hong-Kun , Liu Wei-Yan , Wang Xiao-Hong , Tian Jing-Chao
Published: June 2014

A simple, efficient, and convenient method for the photodimerization of 4-aryl-1,4-dihydropyridine in room-temperature ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF4]) has been developed. By this way, head-to-tail syn-dimers and 3,9-diazatetraasteranes were obtained in good to excellent yields. In addition, [Bmim][BF4] can be reused at least 5 times as the medium without obvious decrease in reaction time and yield.
1D Self-assembly of Terthiophene (3T)–Naphthalenediimide (NDI) Dyad
Authors: Kim Se Hye , Parquette Jon R
Published: June 2014

This work describes a strategy to create terthiophene (3T)–naphthalenediimide (NDI) nanostructures via the β-sheet self-assembly of a functionalized dipeptide. The dipeptide assembles into 1D nanofibers in organic solvents and forms a self-supporting organogel at low concentrations in CH2Cl2. The nanostructures engage in extensive intermolecular π–π stacking interactions.
Norm approximation property
Authors: Plichko Anatolij
Published: June 2014

We introduce and study a general approximation property which takes origin in Numerical Analysis.
Geometry of Banach spaces with an octahedral norm
Authors: Haller Rainis , Langemets Johann
Published: June 2014

We discuss the geometry of Banach spaces whose norm is octahedral or, more generally, locally or weakly octahedral. Our main results characterize these spaces in terms of covering of the unit ball.
Multi-norms
Authors: Dales H. G.
Published: June 2014

We give a survey of the theory of multi-norms, based on a talk given in Tartu on 5 September 2013.
Institutional Relations in Management’s Integral Paradigm Structure
Authors: Зарнадзе  , Zarnadze A.
Published: June 2014

Work is devoted to actual problems related to interrelation of management’s system properties — integrity and institutionality. The integral control system is multifunctional one, which unites multidirectional spheres of action in unified system. Institutes, which considerably raise a level of integration in uniform integral system and promote the management system’s integral content formation, are important for integration of different, not coinciding on interests spheres of action. It occurs under influence of decrease of contradictions and uncertainty level related to multidirectional spheres of action. In such conditions the management as purposeful process concentrates on reproduction of integrative quality of the integral management system. The management system’s most important property — insurance of social and economic system’s activity and sustainable development — is brought to the forefront. Therefore, institutes of economic, social, legal, organizational and psychological contents are necessary for management system’s high-quality development. Only these institutes provide unity and integrity of the management system related to social and economic systems.
Analysis of Tax Policy Measures and Institutional Reforms in Health Care Branch by Means of General Economic Equilibrium’s Computable Model
Authors: Бесстремянная  , Besstremyannaya G.
Published: June 2014

In this paper it is shown how the economic-mathematical tools related to general equilibrium’s dynamic models can be used for analysis of tax policy’s macroeconomic effects and institutional changes (on the example of informal employment). Models can be used for studying of dynamics of economy’s aggregated indicators, and also the indicators reflecting behavior of producers and consumers.
Enterprise’s Main Task in Market Economy
Authors: Гатаулин  , Gataulin T. , Николотова  , Nikolotova S.
Published: June 2014

The enterprise’s main task in the market economy has been posted and its decision has been presented. This task is based on games theory and substitutes a linear task of optimal planning under state-planned economy.
Management development of relations business society and state
Authors: Розенков  , Rozenkov D.
Published: June 2014

In this paper conceptual components and mechanisms related to development management of relations between business, society and state are considered, and the author´s conclusions on these relations’ improvement are presented and justified. Approaches to solving of problems related to innovative collaboration between business and government, focused on public interest implementation, are laid. Attention has been paid to scientific and practical problems related to formation and effectiveness of functioning of strategic alliances between business and government, enhancing national economy’s competitiveness. Contemporary mechanisms of civilized business lobbying, when power pays insufficient attention to business strategic interests, are demonstrated.
Responsibility before creditors in the corporate relations: tendencies and prospects of development of rules of law
Authors: Gutnikov Olyeg
Published: June 2014

This article is about the corporate disregard. Explicates the main principle of corporate law — separation of legal entity (separate legal personality) and separation of corporate property from person and property of participants of that corporation (separation principle). Author analyzed norms of the existing legislation, which are departing from this principle and allow cases to make the founders of a legal entity (or other persons having the ability to determine the actions of the legal entity) accountable for the obligations of that legal entity. Define the boundaries of application of the “piercing the corporate veil” doctrine, on the creation the legal rules on the liability to creditors of the legal person founders and other persons. The author concludes that the application of the “piercing the corporate veil” doctrine is possible only in case of corporate property deficiency during the creation or liquidation of juridical persons. Proposed to extend the relevant uniform rules on any legal entity. At the same time substantiates the thesis against use of the “piercing the corporate veil” doctrine during the existence of the legal entity as violating “the principle of separation”. The author writes about necessity exemption in applicable law cases of the “piercing the corporate veil” doctrine during the existence of the legal entity. Also attention turn to the vagueness of “reverse veil piercing” doctrine in the domestic law, when it concern the interests of the creditors-participating entity, in cases when it is possible to hold a legal entity accountable for the debts of its founders (participants) or the owner of the property.
Legal System and Legal Life of Society
Authors: Malko Aleksander
Published: June 2014

In the terms of globalization of modern society jurisprudence faces the goal of searching of categories fully reflected these processes and challenges. The notions “legal system” and “legal life” highlight among such categories. They compete with each other in some ways. But it is necessary to distinguish them because they have different senses. Legal system is directed to the organizing of legal life of society while legal life contains the sources (roots) of development of legal system. Besides legal life unlike legal system includes all legal phenomenons — both positive and negative (including criminality) that should be searched in complex. So, substantial analysis of legal life of society is the next step in the development of jurisprudence (first of all, theory of law) not only from formal-legal but also from cultural positions. It demands applying of necessary methodological recourses. Such approach gives a possibility to analyze positive (lawful) and negative (unlawful) elements of legal life in their interaction and transforming negative part into negative (for example, processes of criminalization) and vice versa, negative part into positive (decriminalization, legalization, pardon, ext.).
Stages of Development of the Soviet Statehood of 1917—1940 and their Estimation in Works of Soviet Scientists
Authors: Shubert Tatyana
Published: June 2014

In this article the three stages of development of the Russian Constitution (1918, 1925, 1937), are discussed each of represents a certain phase of the constitutional development of the Soviet state. The first stage (1917—1925) is characterized with the transition from capitalism to socialism, the second one stages (1925—1937) is associated with the adoption of the Constitution of the RSFSR in 1925, reflecting changes in the state-building — the formation of the unanimous union of the republican states — the USSR and delegating some mostly important items to it, the formation of the new autonomous regions, the end of the civil war and the reconstruction of the national economics. The third stage (1937—1940) is connected with the adoption of the Constitution of the RSFSR in 1937 (based on the Stalin Constitution of the USSR), which was characterized with the victory of socialism, the industrialization of the country and the collectivization in the agriculture, sphere of economics, the construction of a society without exploiting classes based on the alliance of the working class and the peasantry.
Support and practical advice for the use of nutrition support teams
Authors: Larsen Sue , Baskett Rebecca , Hill Simon , Walmsley Russell S
Published: June 2014

There are many guidelines recommending that provision of parenteral nutrition (PN) should be supervised by nutrition support teams (NSTs). There is some evidence that these teams make economic sense, decrease complications and result in greater delivery of target nutritional requirements. Moreover, a recent report on the quality of PN care in the UK found only 19% was considered to be consistent with current good practice. Recommendations exist on how to set up teams, but advice on the practical aspects of doing the job is lacking. In this article, the authors outline the NST method of practice at North Shore Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand, including its assessment sheet and a description of its working acronym LIFEWRAP, which is used to ensure consistent assessment and care.
Encouraging lapsed registrants to return to nursing practice
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: June 2014

Professor Alan Glasper discusses a new initiative by Health Education England (HEE) to attract lapsed registrants back into the nursing profession
Doing your best as a health professional to keep patients safe
Authors: Tingle John
Published: June 2014

John Tingle discusses two recent publications on health quality and patient safety in the NHS.
A chance to inspire the next crop of nurses
Authors: Reyes Selina
Published: June 2014

Selina Reyes reflects on how far she has come in her studies, inspired by the experience of demonstrating nursing skills to potential new student recruits in Gibraltar.
Workforce development and effective evaluation of projects
Authors: Dickerson Claire , Green Tess , Blass Eddie
Published: June 2014

The success of a project or programme is typically determined in relation to outputs. However, there is a commitment among UK public services to spending public funds efficiently and on activities that provide the greatest benefit to society. Skills for Health recognised the need for a tool to manage the complex process of evaluating project benefits. An integrated evaluation framework was developed to help practitioners identify, describe, measure and evaluate the benefits of workforce development projects. Practitioners tested the framework on projects within three NHS trusts and provided valuable feedback to support its development. The prospective approach taken to identify benefits and collect baseline data to support evaluation was positively received and the clarity and completeness of the framework, as well as the relevance of the questions, were commended. Users reported that the framework was difficult to complete; an online version could be developed, which might help to improve usability. Effective implementation of this approach will depend on the quality and usability of the framework, the willingness of organisations to implement it, and the presence or establishment of an effective change management culture.
Death awareness, feelings of uncertainty, and hope in advanced lung cancer patients: can they coexist?
Authors: Borneman Tami , Irish Terry , Sidhu Rupinder , Koczywas Marianna , Cristea Mihaela
Published: June 2014

Patients diagnosed with stage-IV lung cancer are forced to quickly transition from a cancer-free and perhaps healthy life to one of serious illness, uncertainty, and anticipation of a premature death. Health professionals may be too quick to label the patient as being in denial if they hope for healing. Hope may not be lost when reality is accepted. Studies have investigated what it is like to live with awareness of impending death. Using a patient case study this paper discusses the concepts of death awareness, uncertainty, and hope. The aim is to provide a deeper understanding of how these seemingly antithetical emotions can coexist to the benefit of the patient, and to provide clinicians with practical considerations for supporting patients’ hope throughout their terminal illness.
Final-year nursing undergraduates’ understandings of palliative care: a qualitative study in Wales, UK
Authors: Watts Tessa
Published: June 2014

Background:

With worldwide population ageing and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions, government policies promoting palliative care, and evidence of disparate or even blurred conceptions of palliative care, it is important for educators and practitioners who support undergraduate nurses to establish how these students conceptualise palliative care. Today's students are tomorrow's nurses, and their understanding will shape the ways in which palliative care is integrated into their professional practice.

Aim:

The aim of this work was to explore nursing undergraduates’ understandings of palliative care.

Methods:

As part of a larger qualitative study of palliative care for people with advanced dementia, 11 final-year adult-field nursing undergraduates’ understandings of palliative care were explored through in-depth individual interviews. The data was subject to thematic content analysis.

Findings:

The analysis revealed that the participants were cognisant of the broad scope of palliative care. Moreover, they valued and appreciated compassionate comfort care and emotional support. However, their understanding was rather superficial and focused on the imminently dying phase.

Conclusion:

The findings are positive as they indicate that the participants appreciated and valued compassionate person- and family-centred care. However, they also illuminate where undergraduate nurse education could be further enhanced.
Politics and palliative care: Peru
Authors: Smyth Dion
Published: June 2014

Dion Smyth's review of the internet for palliative nursing
The nurses' role in managing gut stasis in rabbits
Authors: Johansen Kamilla
Published: June 2014

Gut stasis is a gastrointestinal disease in rabbits and is identified by a low appetite and lack of faecal production. It is a very common disease in the rabbit that requires intense and specialised nursing care.

Hospitalising the gut stasis patient creates a challenge with reagrds to how to limit the many stress factors in hospital that could aggravate the condition. Kennel enrichment is therefore important to try to meet the rabbit environmental and behavioural needs. If the rabbit is less stressed in practice an accurate pain assessment could also be easier to perform.

Treatment of gut stasis has traditionally been force feeding, analgesics and pro-kinetic agents, but new protocols including appetite stimulants, blood glucose measuring, nasogastric feeding and abdominal massage have been introduced into practice.

Having a nursing team that has knowledge about rabbits and critical care needs will greatly improve patient care and case success.
The use of skin flaps for wound reconstruction
Authors: Hoad Julian
Published: June 2014

Wound reconstruction may be necessary for traumatic wounds, or iatrogenic wounds. The latter are usually the result of excision of malignant skin tumours. It is important not to compromise the successful removal of a malignant tumour by taking too small a margin. However, attempts to suture large wounds by simple apposition may result in tension at the wound edges. Wounds do not heal, or heal very poorly, when under any tension. Skin flaps provide a versatile way of reconstructing wounds without tension. This article outlines the main types and uses of skin flaps and illustrates these with case examples.
How to perform fine needle aspirates
Authors: Beard Katherine A
Published: June 2014

Fine needle aspirates (commonly referred to as FNAs) are common diagnostic tools performed to obtain cytological information that could help aid in diagnosing veterinary patients. They can be performed on external or internal masses, or lymph nodes. Since veterinary nurses can perform FNAs on external masses and lymph nodes, it important for them to understand how to perform them correctly so a diagnostic sample can be obtained. This article will focus on two different methods of performing FNAs, and how to prepare the sample on microscope slides that will be used to obtain cellular information.
Setbacks in saving tigers from disease
Authors: Walter Olivia
Published: June 2014

Wildlife Vets International has increasing evidence that the world's most endangered tigers are facing a new and deadly danger from canine distemper virus. Olivia Walter explains.
Justiça na escola: perspectivas de um grupo de professores do ensino básico
Authors: Afonso Maria Rosa
Published: June 2014

Este artigo tem como objectivo mostrar como um grupo de professores do ensino básico, a quem se realizaram entrevistas semi-directivas, perspectiva as questões da justiça na escola. A análise de conteúdo pôs em evidência a noção de justiça presente nos discursos, os princípios e valores orientadores da acção docente e as dificuldades, problemas e dilemas vividos na aplicação da justiça. Para um enquadramento conceptual, procurámos perceber a noção de justiça presente na LBSE e o carácter polissémico e multidisciplinar do conceito, para nos centrarmos nos aspectos teóricos fundamentais da justiça como equidade e nas suas implicações ao nível da escola, tomando Rawls como referência principal. A análise de resultados evidenciou que há noções a necessitar de clarificação e situações de maior conflito, em que surgem dilemas – aspectos a ter em conta na formação de professores.
Desenvolvimento de competências em projectos locais de promoção do emprego
Authors: Carrilho Tiago
Published: June 2014

Neste artigo analisamos o desenvolvimento de competências em projectos de promoção local do emprego, tendo por base a metodologia de estudo de caso. Os resultados dos projectos são estudados com base no conceito de competência. Nos três projectos, desenvolveram-se competências valorizando os níveis «ser» e «estar». O projecto À Medida caracterizou-se pela forte dinamização de todas as dimensões, com excepção da dimensão empresarial, em face da aposta na componente profissional da formação para enriquecer a ligação entre os níveis «saber» e «fazer». No projecto Formart observou-se um forte desenvolvimento do nível «saber», e uma dinamização restrita dos níveis «saber-fazer» e «fazer» dada a reduzida percentagem de indivíduos integrados no mercado de emprego após a formação. O projecto Le Cheile caracterizou-se pela dinamização intermédia das dimensões informativa, profissional e informativa-profissional face à elevada percentagem de formandos que conseguiram aplicar profissionalmente os conhecimentos adquiridos, embora tenham demonstrado dificuldades na criação do seu próprio emprego.
Indicadores de excelencia docente en la Universidad de Granada
Authors: Fernández Cruz Manuel , Romero López Asunción
Published: June 2014

As universidades necessitam dotar-se de um sistema de indicadores que permita avaliar a qualidade dos seus docentes, que ajude numa tomada de decisões informada para a sua contratação e promoção e que sirva de referência para a planificação de actividades formativas dirigidas aos docentes nas suas fases distintas de desenvolvimento profissional. A Universidade de Granada (Espanha) não é alheia a esta tendência, e por isso desenvolve estudos, como o que aqui se apresenta realizado pelo Grupo de Investigação FORCE, para estabelecer um sistema de indicadores de excelência apropriado às características do seu corpo docente. O processo desenvolveu-se em duas fases. Numa primeira fase estudou-se em profundidade uma amostra de docentes de distintos estratos do conjunto da população docente. O estudo realizou-se com base numa entrevista. A amostra foi constituída por seis docentes de seis centros pertencentes a cada uma das seis áreas básicas de docência que estabelecemos: ciências da saúde, ciências físico-naturais, ciências sociais e jurídicas, humanidades, ciências técnicas e belas-artes. A análise da informação qualitativa realizou-se através de uma análise de conteúdo em profundidade que permitiu retirar indicadores das dimensões relevantes de todo o material narrativo recolhido. Numa segunda fase, submetemos a lista de indicadores a toda a população docente da Universidade, 3003 docentes. Para a análise da informação quantitativa realizaram-se análises descritivas básicas.
O ensino superior na atualidade e os desafios da aprendizagem: teorizações e prática docente
Authors: Lopes Denise Maria de Carvalho , Vaz-Rebelo Maria da Piedade Pessoa , Pessoa Maria Teresa Ribeiro
Published: June 2014

Este trabalho tem por objectivos analisar diferentes contributos teóricos relativos a processos de aprendizagem e estabelecer as articulações entre tais concepções e a prática docente no ensino superior. Tal discussão ganha relevância no contexto das actuais reorganizações das universidades e de suas práticas, cujas contradições põem em relevo a dimensão epistemológica desse nível de ensino. Questiona-se, não apenas o que se aprende, mas para que e, de modo especial, como se aprende, numa perspectiva em que aprender e ensinar são relações indissociáveis. Neste sentido, o texto discute contributos de abordagens interacionistas como a psicogenética de Jean Piaget, a histórico-cultural de L. S. Vygotsky e a flexibilidade cognitiva de Spiro. A partir destas teorizações são analisadas algumas estratégias pedagógicas, nomeadamente o método de casos e as narrativas autobiográficas, como possibilidades de construção compartilhada de significações em contextos de interacção, mediação e complexidade, em que alunos e professores têm condição de se constituirem como sujeitos numa perspectiva de emancipação.
A docência no Ensino Superior: perspectivas e imagens
Authors: Baldi Elena Mabel Brütten
Published: June 2014

Neste trabalho é apresentada parte de um estudo sobre a docência universitária realizado com professores da UFRN. Investigações no âmbito do ensino superior constituem-se tema instigador. Trabalhos de Leite (1998), Cunha (2001), Morosini (2001), INEP (2004), Zabalza (2004), Teichler (2007), Bettencourt-Pires (2007), Garcia Ruiz (2008) e Brütten (2008) explicitam, sob diferentes enfoques, a problemática em questão. É notório exercerem os docentes um papel relevante no campo social e institucional. Entretanto, estudos empíricos relativos ao pensamento dos professores do ensino superior ainda são escassos. O estudo que aqui apresentamos retoma, com mais profundidade, os temas do trabalho que desenvolvemos em 2008 nomeadamente: a preparação pedagógica para ensinar na universidade, os atributos pessoais e expectativas exigidas para a docência e o ensino e as estratégias utilizadas com os alunos. Foram realizadas entrevistas a professores de diferentes cursos. Conclusões nos permitem apontar que alguns problemas críticos que permeiam o ensino superior estão presentes nas vivências dos docentes: a exigência de produtividade intelectual e reprodução do conhecimento nem sempre acompanhada de uma autêntica criação do saber; uma burocratização exacerbada; o descaso com procedimentos relevantes à formação dos estudantes e à construção e/ou fortalecimento da identidade docente. Problemas que são a gênese de um clima de constrangimento e mal – estar entre professores em nossas universidades.
Os malefícios do tabaco na infância e na adolescência
Authors: Fonseca António Castro , Simões Maria C. Taborda
Published: June 2014

Embora a literatura científica sobre as consequências do consumo de tabaco
nos jovens e nos adultos seja, hoje em dia, consideravelmente extensa, ela é bastante reduzida no que se refere a crianças e pré-adolescentes. O objectivo deste artigo era examinar a evolução do consumo de tabaco, desde a infância até ao fim da adolescência, devotando-se particular atenção aos efeitos negativos do consumo de tabaco de início precoce. Adicionalmente, serão também apresentadas e discutidas diversas informações sobre a prevalência do consumo de tabaco e seus padrões de desenvolvimento durante essas idades. Para tal utilizaram-se dados de um estudo longitudinal em que participou uma numerosa amostra de rapazes e raparigas da comunidade, que foi seguida desde os primeiros anos do ensino básico até ao fim da escola secundária. Os resultados mostraram que o consumo de tabaco, embora raro, já ocorria nos primeiros anos de escolaridade, aumentando progressivamente com a idade para se tornar um fenómeno muito frequente no fim da adolescência. Além disso, os fumadores apresentavam mais problemas em quase todos os domínios aqui analisados, designadamente comportamentos anti-sociais, consumo de droga, problemas emocionais, fraco desempenho escolar e diversas outras formas de psicopatologia. Mas a maioria dessas diferenças desaparecia, uma vez controlados os efeitos de outros problemas da infância (v.g. comportamento anti-social, problemas de atenção e hiperactividade). Também não se encontraram diferenças sistemáticas entre fumadores de início precoce e fumadores de início tardio. Concluindo, as crianças e adolescentes que fumam parecem correr maiores riscos de futuros problemas em vários domínios; todavia, em grande parte esses efeitos negativos podem ser explicados por outros factores da infância que, habitualmente, andam associados com o fumar de início precoce.