bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel rumor diffusion model considering the effect of truth in online social media
Authors: Sun Ling , Liu Yun , Zeng Qing-An , Xiong Fei
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we propose a model to investigate how truth affects rumor diffusion in online social media. Our model reveals a relation between rumor and truth — namely, when a rumor is diffusing, the truth about the rumor also diffuses with it. Two patterns of the agents used to identify rumor, self-identification and passive learning are taken into account. Combining theoretical proof and simulation analysis, we find that the threshold value of rumor diffusion is negatively correlated to the connectivity between nodes in the network and the probability β of agents knowing truth. Increasing β can reduce the maximum density of the rumor spreaders and slow down the generation speed of new rumor spreaders. On the other hand, we conclude that the best rumor diffusion strategy must balance the probability of forwarding rumor and the probability of agents losing interest in the rumor. High spread rate λ of rumor would lead to a surge in truth dissemination which will greatly limit the diffusion of rumor. Furthermore, in the case of unknown λ, increasing β can effectively reduce the maximum proportion of agents who do not know the truth, but cannot narrow the rumor diffusion range in a certain interval of β.
Origin and status of LUNA at Gran Sasso
Authors: Broggini Carlo ,   (LUNA Collaboration)
Published: November 2014

The ultimate goal of nuclear astrophysics, the union of nuclear physics and astronomy, is to provide a comprehensive picture of the nuclear reactions which power the stars and, in doing so, synthesize the chemical elements. Deep underground in the Gran Sasso Laboratory the key reactions of the proton–proton chain and of the carbon–nitrogen–oxygen cycle have been studied down to the energies of astrophysical interest. The main results obtained in the past 20 years are reviewed and their influence on our understanding of the properties of the neutrino, the Sun, and the Universe itself is discussed. Finally, future developments of underground nuclear astrophysics beyond the study of hydrogen burning are outlined.
LASER-INDUCED THERMAL–MECHANICAL DAMAGE CHARACTERISTICS OF CLEARTRAN MULTISPECTRAL ZINC SULFIDE WITH TEMPERATURE-DEPENDENT PROPERTIES
Authors: PENG YAJING , JIANG YANXUE , YANG YANQIANG
Published: November 2014

Laser-induced thermal–mechanical damage characteristics of window materials are the focus problems in laser weapon and anti-radiation reinforcement technology. Thermal–mechanical effects and damage characteristics are investigated for cleartran multispectral zinc sulfide ( ZnS ) thin film window materials irradiated by continuous laser using three-dimensional (3D) thermal–mechanical model. Some temperature-dependent parameters are introduced into the model. The temporal-spatial distributions of temperature and thermal stress are exhibited. The damage mechanism is analyzed. The influences of temperature effect of material parameters and laser intensity on the development of thermal stress and the damage characteristics are examined. The results show, the von Mises equivalent stress along the thickness direction is fluctuant, which originates from the transformation of principal stresses from compressive stress to tensile stress with the increase of depth from irradiated surface. The damage originates from the thermal stress but not the melting. The thermal stress is increased and the damage is accelerated by introducing the temperature effect of parameters or the increasing laser intensity.
Prolonged QT Syndrome in a 27-Year-Old Female Presenting as a Cardiac Arrest after Elective Surgery
Authors: Mirrakhimov Aibek E. , Voore Prakruthi , Ali Alaa M.
Published: November 2014

Cardiac arrest is a true medical emergency and clinicians should base the management on American Heart Association advanced cardiac life support algorithm. The potential triggers of cardiac arrest should be sought. We present a case of a 27-year-old female who developed cardiac arrest and was later found to have congenital long QT syndrome. The patient’s outcome was favorable. Discussion of the key management options will be discussed in the text.
Comparison of Prevalence of Synovitis by Ultrasound Assessment in Subjects Exposed or Not to Self-Reported Physical Overexertion: The Monday’s Synovitis
Authors: Guillén Astete C. A. , Boteanu A. , Zea Mendoza A.
Published: November 2014

Objective. To compare the proportion of synovitis detected by ultrasonographic study (USS) of the hands, in subjects with no rheumatologic known disease according to self-reported level of overexertion performed the day before.Methods. 407 consecutive volunteers were enrolled in a twelve-month period and underwent an ultrasound assessment of the hand. All studies were performed on Monday or Friday. Subjects were grouped according to their self-reported overexertion carried out the day before. Presence or absence of ultrasonographic findings compatible with synovitis was compared between groups.Results. 95.8% of those tested on Friday had made no overexertion the day before the study, while 30.2% of those assessed on Monday declared to have carried out an overexertion. Presence of carpal synovial hypertrophy, synovial fluid/effusion, and power-Doppler signal was statistically higher in subjects who carried out an overexertion the day before the study than the rest of subjects when the dominant hand was assessed. Globally, presence of any synovitis ultrasonographic finding was statistically higher in subjects who were studied on Monday than Friday (34.9% versus 12.1%) and in subjects who self-reported an overexertion the day before compared to the rest of subjects (47.7 versus 11.5%).Conclusions. In general, we recommend performing the USS as many days as possible after the most recent overexertion.
Operational Efficiency of an Immunization Clinic Attached to Rural Health Training Centre in Delhi, India: A Time and Motion Study
Authors: Kumar Varun , Mangal Abha , Panesar Sanjeet , Yadav Geeta , Talwar Richa , Raut Deepak , Singh Saudan
Published: November 2014

Background. Obtaining baseline data about current patterns of work is important for assessing the effects of interventions designed to improve care delivery. Time and motion studies allow for the most accurate measurement of structured components. Therefore, the present study was conducted to study the operational efficiency of an immunization clinic in Delhi, India.Methods. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the immunization clinic of Rural Health Training Centre in Delhi, India, from January 2014 to March 2014. The study composed two stage evaluations, a passive observation and a time and motion study. Systemic random sampling method was used to select 863 mothers/caregivers attending the immunization clinic.Results. At the immunization clinic, the study participants spent 64.1% of their total time in waiting. For new cases, the mean time taken for initial registration and receiving postvaccination advice was found to be significantly longer than old cases. Delivering health care services took more time during Mondays and also during the first hour of the day.Conclusion. Results of this study will guide public health decision-makers at all government levels in planning and implementation of immunization programs in developing countries.
Postanesthetic Severe Oral Angioedema in Patient’s Taking Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor
Authors: Marques Acílio , Retroz-Marques Carla , Mota Sara , Cabral Raquel , Campos Matos
Published: November 2014

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are the leading cause of a drug-induced angioedema. This occurrence is frequently underdiagnosed, but its relapse can be life-threatening. The authors’ intention in reporting this clinical case is to sound a warning about reviewing attitudes and surveillance to try to improve patient perioperative safety.
Properties of Graphene Oxide/Epoxy Resin Composites
Authors: Tang Jijun , Zhou Haijun , Liang Yunxia , Shi Xinlan , Yang Xin , Zhang Jiaoxia
Published: November 2014

The graphene oxide (GO) was obtained by pressurized oxidation method using natural graphite as raw materials. Then the GO/epoxy resin composites were prepared by casting. The mechanical and damping properties of composites were studied. As a result, the impact intensity of GO/epoxy resin composites was prominently improved with the content of the graphene oxide increasing. The glass transition temperature decreased and the damping capacity is improved.
Study of the Genetic Diversity of the Ornamental FishBadis badis(Hamilton-Buchanan, 1822) in the Terai Region of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, India
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Tanmay , Bhattacharjee Soumen
Published: November 2014

Dwarf chameleon fish orBadis badis, a lesser known ornamental freshwater fish, has recently been included in the Indian threatened category of fish list. There are insufficient studies with regard to the assessment of genetic background of this ichthyofauna, especially in the western sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal, India, popularly known as the Terai. The present study is the first attempt to investigate the present status of the genetic background of this species in the Mahananda and Balason rivers, major streams of this region. Twenty-one selective RAPD primers generated 53 and 60 polymorphic fragments in the Mahananda and Balason populations, respectively. The proportion of polymorphic loci, Nei’s genetic diversity (H), and Shannon’s index(H′)were 0.4416,0.1654±0.2023, and0.2450±0.2907, respectively, in Mahananda river population and were 0.5041,0.1983±0.2126, and0.2901±0.3037, respectively, in Balason river population. Inbreeding coefficient and degree of gene differentiation were also calculated. TheHandH′were found to be0.1601±0.1944and0.2363±0.2782, respectively, in overall Mahananda-Balason river system. Our study revealed considerable lack of genetic variation among the individuals ofBadis badis. The genetic data obtained from the present study lend support to the view that there is a scope of stock improvement for this ichthyofauna.
Spinal Nerve Root Haemangioblastoma Associated with Reactive Polycythemia
Authors: Law Eric K. C. , Lee Ryan K. L. , Griffith James F. , Siu Deyond Y. W. , Ng Ho Keung
Published: November 2014

Haemangioblastomas are uncommon tumours that usually occur in the cerebellum and, less commonly, in the intramedullary spinal cord. The extramedullary spinal canal is an uncommon location for these tumours. Also haemangioblastoma at this site is not known to be associated with polycythemia. We present the clinical, imaging, and histological findings of an adult patient with extramedullary spinal haemangioblastoma and reactive polycythemia. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) revealed a medium-sized tumour that most likely arose from an extramedullary spinal nerve root. This tumour appeared to be slow growing as evidenced by the accompanying well-defined bony resorption with a sclerotic rim and mild neural foraminal widening. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed prominent flow voids consistent with tumoural hypervascularity. CT-guided biopsy was performed. Although preoperative angiographic embolisation was technically successful, excessive intraoperative tumour bleeding necessitated tumour debulking rather than complete tumour resection. Histology of the resected specimen revealed haemangioblastoma. Seven months postoperatively, the patients back pain and polycythemia have resolved.
Synthesis of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes‐Titania Nanomaterial for Desulfurization of Model Fuel
Authors: Saleh Tawfik A. , Siddiqui Mohammad N. , Al-Arfaj Abdulrahman A.
Published: November 2014

This work reported on the development of novel nanomaterials of multiwalled carbon nanotubes doped with titania (CNT/TiO2) for the adsorptive desulfurization of model fuel oils. Various analytical techniques such as field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used for the characterization of the nanomaterials. The initial results indicated the effectiveness of the prepared CNT/TiO2 nanomaterials in removing sulfur compounds from model fuel oil. The adsorption of DBT, BT, and thiophene from model fuel onto the derived sorbents was performed using batch mode system. These CNT/TiO2 nanomaterials initially afforded approximately 45% removal of DBT, 55% BT, and more than 65% thiophene compounds from model fuels. The CNT/TiO2 nanomaterials provided an excellent activity towards interaction with organosulfur compounds. More experiments are underway to optimize the parameters for the adsorptive desulfurization processes. We believe that these nanomaterials as adsorbents will find useful applications in petroleum industry because of their operational simplicity, high efficiency, and high capacity.
Visual Impairment and Hip Fractures: A Case-Control Study in Elderly Patients
Authors: Loriaut Patrick , Loriaut Philippe , Boyer Patrick , Massin Philippe , Cochereau Isabelle
Published: November 2014

Aims: To investigate the relationship between visual impairment and fall-related hip fracture and to determine the etiology of visual impairment in a population of elderly patients with hip fracture. Methods: A case-control study compared 96 patients diagnosed with hip fracture to a randomly selected control group of 103 patients without hip fracture. Inclusion criteria for the case group were as follows: patients aged 60 years and over with a hip fracture. Clinical assessment included visual acuity and ophthalmic examination. Results: Forty-three patients with hip fracture had a visual impairment compared to only 12 patients in the control group. Visual impairment was a significant risk factor for hip fracture (OR = 6.15; 95% CI 2.98-12.69). Twenty-seven hip fracture patients had an uncorrected refractive error compared to only 15 controls (OR = 2.78; 95% CI 0.92-8.35). There was no significant difference of dense cataract between both groups (OR = 2.28; 95% CI 0.75-6.93). Fourteen hip fracture patients had a macular degeneration compared to only 8 controls (OR = 5.63; 95% CI 1.57-20.18), and 10 patients had suspicion of glaucoma compared to only 5 controls (OR = 10.65; 95% CI 2.21-51.3). Conclusion: Visual impairment was significantly associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in elderly people. There are many etiologies that may contribute to hip fractures, most notably refractive error, cataract, macular degeneration and glaucoma.
Benefits of an Oxygen Reservoir Cannula versus a Conventional Nasal Cannula during Exercise in Hypoxemic COPD Patients: A Crossover Trial
Authors: Gloeckl Rainer , Heinzelmann Inga , Matthaei Maximilian , Seeberg Stella , Damisch Thomas , Jerrentrup Andreas , Kenn Klaus
Published: November 2014

Background: The Oxymizer® is a special nasal cannula that provides a higher luminal diameter in combination with an incorporated oxygen (O2) reservoir. It is assumed that a higher O2 concentration can be delivered breath by breath in order to increase oxygenation. Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of the Oxymizer on endurance time in comparison to a conventional nasal cannula (CNC). Methods: Forty-three patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, age 60 ± 9 years, FEV1 37 ± 16% pred.) and indications for LTOT were recruited during pulmonary rehabilitation for this cross-over study. After an initial maximal incremental cycle test, all patients performed 4 cycling endurance time tests at 70% of their peak work rate (twice with the Oxymizer and twice with a CNC, in reverse order). Results: The endurance time was significantly higher when patients cycled while using the Oxymizer in comparison to while using the CNC [858 ± 754 vs. 766 ± 652 s; between-group difference 92 s (95% confidence interval 32-152), p < 0.001]. In addition to a longer cycling duration, O2 saturation at isotime was significantly higher with the Oxymizer (93.5 ± 5.4 vs. 90.4 ± 5.3%; p = 0.027). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation (r = 0.427, p = 0.002) between the O2 flow rate and improvements in the constant work rate test, showing greater improvements in favor of the Oxymizer in patients with a higher demand for O2 (≥4 liters/min). Conclusion: We show that O2 delivery via the Oxymizer is superior to a CNC with regard to endurance capacity and oxygenation during exercise in patients with severe COPD. It seems that patients with a higher demand for O2 (≥4 liters/min), in particular, may benefit more from the use of the Oxymizer.
GPER1 Stimulation Alters Posttranslational Modification of RGSz1 and Induces Desensitization of 5-HT1A Receptor Signaling in the Rat Hypothalamus
Authors: McAllister Carrie E. , Mi Zhen , Mure Minae , Li Qian , Muma Nancy A.
Published: November 2014

Hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is a consistent biological characteristic of depression, and response normalization coincides with clinical responsiveness to antidepressant medications. Desensitization of serotonin 1A receptor (5-HT1AR) signaling in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) follows selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant treatment and contributes to the antidepressant response. Estradiol alone produces a partial desensitization of 5-HT1AR signaling and synergizes with SSRIs to result in a complete and more rapid desensitization than with SSRIs alone as measured by a decrease in the oxytocin and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) responses to 5-HT1AR stimulation. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) is necessary for estradiol-induced desensitization of 5-HT1AR signaling, although the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. We now find that stimulation of GPER1 with the selective agonist G-1 and nonselective stimulation of estrogen receptors dramatically alter isoform expression of a key component of the 5-HT1AR signaling pathway, RGSz1, a GTPase-activating protein selective for Gαz, the Gα subunit necessary for 5-HT1AR-mediated hormone release. RGSz1 isoforms are differentially glycosylated, SUMOylated, and phosphorylated, and differentially distributed in subcellular organelles. High-molecular-weight RGSz1 is SUMOylated and glycosylated, localized to the detergent-resistant microdomain (DRM) of the cell membrane, and increased by estradiol and G-1 treatment. Because activated Gαz also localizes to the DRM, increased DRM-localized RGSz1 by estradiol and G-1 could reduce Gαz activity, functionally uncoupling 5-HT1AR signaling. Peripheral G-1 treatment produced a partial reduction in oxytocin and ACTH responses to 5-HT1AR stimulation similar to direct injections into the PVN. Together, these results identify GPER1 and RGSz1 as novel targets for the treatment of depression.
EP217609, a neutralisable dual-action FIIa/FXa anticoagulant, with antithrombotic effects in arterial thrombosis
Authors: Alame Ghina , Mangin Pierre H. , Freund Monique , Riehl Nadia , Magnenat Stéphanie , Petitou Maurice , Hechler Béatrice , Gachet Christian
Published: November 2014

EP217609 is a new synthetic parenteral dual-action anticoagulant combining a direct thrombin inhibitor (α-NAPAP analog), an indirect factor Xa inhibitor (fondaparinux analog) and a biotin moiety allowing its neutralisation. EP217609 exhibited similar in vitro anticoagulant properties as its parent compounds. On the basis of dose-response curves, we identified low and moderate doses of EP217609 resulting in similar ex vivo prolongation of the APTT as α-NAPAP analog and comparable ex vivo anti-FXa activity as fondaparinux. The effects of EP217609 were compared to those of its parent compounds used alone or in combination in two models of experimental thrombosis induced by FeCl3 injury of the carotid artery or mechanical injury of atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE-deficient mice. When administered at low doses increasing the APTT by only 1.1 fold, EP217609 significantly reduced the thrombus area in both models as compared to α-NAPAP analog or fondaparinux alone, but not to the combination of these drugs. In contrast, at higher doses increasing the APTT 1.5 times, EP217609 was not superior to either parent compound. Low doses of EP217609 did not prolong the tail bleeding time or increase the volume of blood loss, although a tendency towards an increased blood loss was observed in five out of 12 mice. Finally, the effects of EP217609 could be neutralised in vivo by injection of avidin. The pharmacological profile of EP217609, its performance in arterial thrombosis models and its possible neutralisation make it an interesting molecule and a potential candidate as an antithrombotic drug.
First report of intersex in the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus (Dana, 1852)
Authors: Yazicioglu B. , Yazicioglu B. , Linhartova Z. , Yazicioglu B. , Linhartova Z. , Niksirat H. , Yazicioglu B. , Linhartova Z. , Niksirat H. , Kozak P.
Published: November 2014

The reproductive strategies of species of non-indigenous crayfish make an important issue in astacological research. Although crayfish reproduction has been well studied, there is little information available on the occurrence of intersexuality. We report the first evidence of intersex in the signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus (Dana, 1852). An intersexual specimen was found among five tested signal crayfish. Morphology revealed both male and female genital openings, as well as male gonopods. The specimen superficially appeared male but contained both testes and ovaries, with an atypical dispersed structure. Sperm was obtained from this crayfish. Histology showed both spermatocytes and oocytes. The gonadosomatic index (GSI = 3.79) was considered as a morphometric parameter of the intersexual crayfish. The ova present in the intersex male raised its GSI to the three-fold of that of normal males.
Recent trends on the stent research for blood arteries by bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ahn Sejung , Sung Jung-Suk , Choi Brad , Kim Hackjoo , Sung Yong Kiel
Published: November 2014

The research trends on stent for blood arteries are reviewed by bibliometric analysis using 7,790 journal articles published from 1986 to 2013 of the Web of Science database. The bibliometric indicators are applied to analyze the journal article data, which are simple number of publications for selecting key players, citation indicators for measuring qualitative research performance, collaboration indicators for figuring out the degree of international collaboration and keyword mapping for identifying the research trends. The studies of stent for blood arteries are investigated on the basis of the analysis by countries, institutions and topic changing. The leading countries and institutions published many high-quality journal articles with strong international collaboration. In this report, the current status and future of research trends are clearly revealed from the periodic topic changing analysis. The keywords such as ‘drug eluting stent’, ‘stent coated with new polymers’ and ‘drug delivery systems’ have come into the recent stent-related research, which means lots of efforts are under way to overcome the present limitations of the research.
Complex structural imaging of transition zones in Bohai Bay, China, by OBC technology
Authors: Miao Xiaogui , Yan Wei , Liu Yongxia , Zhou Joe , Yang Kunlun
Published: November 2014

A series of ocean-bottom cable (OBC) surveys has been conducted in the Bohai Sea in China in recent years to overcome difficulties experienced with streamer surveys in shallow water, such as strong currents, missing near offsets, and obstacles. The main challenges in OBC data imaging include steeply dipping structures, serious multiples in the shallow-water environment, large lateral velocity variations, fault shadow effects, and low signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). To obtain optimal images, advanced processing technologies have been developed and applied to OBC data which involve effective PZ summation and shallow-water demultiple, a high-fidelity beam migration in the wide-azimuth domain, and accurate velocity-model building in 3D tilted-transverse-isotropy (TTI) media. The PZ summation and shallow-water demultiple methods aim to effectively eliminate shallow-water ghosts to achieve broadband seismic data. Furthermore, high-fidelity controlled-beam migration (CBM) and TTI velocity-model updates greatly enhance steep dip imaging, improve S/N, and reduce turnaround time. Through the combination of these technologies, OBC data processing provides high-quality images with well-defined steeply dipping structures to reduce exploration risk in the Bohai area.
Chemistry of Anthracene–Acetylene Oligomers. XXIV. Theoretical Evaluation of Molecular Strain and Interactions in Anthracene–Acetylene Cyclic Oligomers by Homodesmotic Reaction Method
Authors: Toyota Shinji , Wakamatsu Kan , Kawakami Takahiro , Iwanaga Tetsuo
Published: November 2014

The structures and stabilities of 1,8-anthrylene cyclic oligomers having acetylene or diacetylene linkers were investigated by DFT calculations with M05 and M06 series functionals. The structures of the cyclic oligomers were reasonably reproduced at the M05-2X/6-31G* level by using the interlayer distance between stacking anthracene planes in the anthracene–acetylene cyclic tetramer as benchmark. The structural features of the cyclic oligomers ranging from dimers to hexamers were discussed on the basis of the optimized structures. The stabilities of the cyclic oligomers were analyzed by thermochemical calculations of the homodesmotic reactions. The decreased stabilities of the odd-numbered oligomers are mainly attributable to molecular strain due to bending deformations at acetylene carbons. The increased stabilities of the tetramers and the hexamers are attributable to the intramolecular π···π interactions between anthracene units. The contributions of other factors influencing the overall stability, such as conjugation, steric hindrance, aromaticity, and CH···π interaction, are also discussed.
The Impact of Corporate Sustainability on Organizational Processes and Performance
Authors: Eccles Robert G. , Ioannou Ioannis , Serafeim George
Published: November 2014

We investigate the effect of corporate sustainability on organizational processes and performance. Using a matched sample of 180 U.S. companies, we find that corporations that voluntarily adopted sustainability policies by 1993—termed as high sustainability companies—exhibit by 2009 distinct organizational processes compared to a matched sample of companies that adopted almost none of these policies—termed as low sustainability companies. The boards of directors of high sustainability companies are more likely to be formally responsible for sustainability, and top executive compensation incentives are more likely to be a function of sustainability metrics. High sustainability companies are more likely to have established processes for stakeholder engagement, to be more long-term oriented, and to exhibit higher measurement and disclosure of nonfinancial information. Finally, high sustainability companies significantly outperform their counterparts over the long term, both in terms of stock market and accounting performance.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Cassiman, business strategy.
Numeracy must become a priority for nurses
Authors: Hutton B Meriel
Published: November 2014

The nursing profession is acknowledging that its members are typical of the population as a whole in that many are not good at numerical calculation. Whether this has actually caused much harm to patients is difficult to prove. Drug errors are cited as making up one-sixth of the UKCC's disciplinary hearings but arithmetical error contributes to a tiny minority of these. The most common errors are those of wrong drug, wrong patient or wrong mode of delivery, none of which require competency in mathematics (Cooper, 1995). Errors of calculation are more commonly attributed to doctors' prescriptions, although nurses may become more at risk through increased use of medication by infusion (Gladstone, 1995).
Communication is the essence of nursing care 1: breaking bad news
Authors: Chauhan Geeta , Long Ann
Published: November 2014

This is the first of two articles which support the assumption that effective communication is the foundation upon which nursing should stand. The articles are founded on an examination of an interaction analysis of a role play situation in the classroom where a group of 19 MSc nursing students presented a nursing scenario to their peers and feedback was later generated from the total group. At least seven minority ethnic groups, who were new to the country, were represented. The role play was later examined using theoretical frameworks to guide the analysis. This article provides analysis of the breaking of bad news, giving information through exploring, questioning and reassurance, touch, and, finally, empathy and humanism. The second article will explore and examine ethical issues, such as truth-telling and autonomy, that were also evidenced in the role play. Other themes were personal constraints such as family stress and counselling. This article begins by introducing readers to the role play situation. The number of communication concepts identified in this short 20-minute role play positively support the authors' argument that communication is the essence of nursing care.
A clinical evaluation of the Transfoam mattress after 4 years
Authors: Gray David , Palk Miriam
Published: November 2014

It is recognized that pressure-reducing foam mattresses can be of benefit in the prevention of pressure sores but it is also recognized that more information is required to demonstrate their long-term efficacy (Cullum et al, 1995). It is therefore necessary to evaluate the pressure-reducing capabilities of this type of mattress some years after purchase to evaluate if in fact it can maintain its initial level of performance. This article presents the results of one such study carried out 4 years after the purchase of Transfoam mattresses.
Investigating the use of Aquaform Hydrogel in wound management
Authors: Trudgian Julie
Published: November 2014

This article explores the role of hydrogels in wound management. Methods of debriding necrotic/sloughy wounds are considered and the benefits of using a hydrogel are discussed. The article focuses upon Aquaform Hydrogel, investigating the evidence of its efficacy, and concluding with an evaluation of the product which resulted in a change of practice.
Investigations on Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia Coli (Ehec) Among Dairy Farms in the North Part of the Republic of Bulgaria
Authors: Urumova Valentina , Lyutzkanov Mihni , Petrov Vladimir
Published: November 2014

Over a 2-year period, from January 2011 to May 2013, a total of 1094 faecal swab samples were collected from cattle at different age at 4 farms in North Bulgaria: Okorsh, Slavyanovo (Popovo municipality), Dobri dol and Trem. Out of them, 36 coli strains (3.3%) positive in the E. coli O:157 antiserum agglutination test and identified by the BBL CRYSTAL identification system as belonging to the E. coli O:157 serotype were isolated. The distribution of isolates was as followed: 5 (0.5%) E. coli O:157 strains at the Okorsh dairy cattle farm, 7 (0.6%) E. coli isolates at the Slavyanovo dairy farm, 16 (1.5%) isolates at the Dobri dol farm and 8 (0.7%) isolates at the Trem farm. Colibacteria exhibited 100% sensitivity to oxyimino-cephalosporins, gentamicin and enrofloxacin, and were resistant to ampicillin (19.4%) and tetracycline (41.6%). From the 15 strains resistant to tetracycline, 11 were isolated from the cows at Dobri dol, while the other 4 originated from the other three farms. The 7 ampicillin-resistant E. coli isolates were detected only at the Dobri dol cattle farm.
L’attachement à soi face aux fins morales: une question stoïcienne
Authors: Kühn Wilfried
Published: November 2014

According to current interpretation of their ethics the Stoics incorporated in the theory of happiness the conception of attachment to oneself (οἰκείωσις πρὸς ἑαυτόν) supposed to be changed into attachment to reason. This article aims to show that there is no textual evidence to corroborate this idea, and that, on the contrary, several texts and conceptual configurations tell against it. The same seems to hold true for the life of human adults who are not wise and keep their animal attachment to themselves (Hierocles): as Cicero apparently suspected, the moral maxim of this life, i.e. self-preservation
Measuring Self-Service Technology Latent Difficulties: Insurance Decisions on Utilitarian and Hedonic Influences
Authors: Yang Ann Shawing
Published: November 2014

This study investigates the difficulties encountered by consumers in forming insurance decisions when using self-service technology (SST) channels, such as electronic insurance. Rasch measurement model is applied. This model employs the expectation disconfirmation theory to categorize and rank the order of importance of latent utilitarian and hedonic insurance purchase motives. Consumers find that electronic insurance has high risks and high premiums with respect to utilitarian motives but lacks information and performs unsatisfactorily in terms of hedonic motives. Nevertheless, electronic insurance is preferred for the convenience brought by SST channels, and because it provides greater discounts and offers product–channel matching through self-consultation in the absence of agents. Being middle-aged and having a high income are factors that significantly influence electronic insurance purchases.
A Contrastive Perspective on the Appraisal Strategies of English Writing of Chinese and Western Reviewers
Authors: Xu Yusu
Published: November 2014

Under the guidance of Contrastive Rhetoric, this paper applies the attitudinal system of Appraisal Theory in the comparative study of the appraisal strategies between Chinese and Western literary reviews. Analysis of 12 English literary reviews by native speakers of both cultures reveals that they exert strategic differences. First, the Chinese reviews employ fewer appraisal resources than their Western counterparts. Second, they differ in their preference for the patterning of the three attitudinal sub-systems (Affect, Judgment, Appreciation). This study discloses that the reviewers construct the appropriate appraisal strategies from their respective interpersonal perspective to conform to the generic features of the discourse and the cultural context.
A case of a cervico-isthmic pregnancy without abnormal location of placenta
Authors: Yoshida Hiroko , Fujita Yasuyuki , Yumoto Yasuo , Hidaka Nobuhiro , Fukushima Kotaro , Kato Kiyoko
Published: November 2014

Cervico-isthmic pregnancies (CIP) are often complicated by massive hemorrhage due to placenta previa and adhesion. Herein, we present a case of CIP without placenta previa, complicated by cervical incompetency. A 39-year-old multiparous woman was diagnosed with CIP at 8 weeks. The placenta was located on the normal site, and no significant ultrasonographic findings were noted after 14 weeks. At 20 weeks, a cervical incompetency was complicated. A healthy infant was delivered by a cesarean hysterectomy at term. Histopathological examination confirmed CIP with placenta increta. In cases with CIP without placenta previa, the diagnosis during early gestation and careful evaluation of uterine cervix is essential to avoid severe complications.
Some Tauberian conditions obtained through weighted generator sequences
Authors: Belen Cemal
Published: November 2014

Recently, the concept of weighted
generator sequence has been introduced by Çanak and Totur
[Comput. Math. Appl. 62 (2011), no. 6, 2609–2615]. They proved that certain conditions in terms of
weighted generator sequences are Tauberian conditions for the
weighted mean method. In this paper, we present the necessary and
sufficient Tauberian conditions based on a weighted generator
sequence under which statistical convergence follows from
statistical summability by weighted means.
The role of serpins in tumor cell migration
Authors: Fortenberry Yolanda
Published: November 2014

Tumor cells are characterized by uncontrolled cell growth at a primary site that is caused by genetic alterations. Tumor cells that metastasize from their primary site to distant locations are commonly referred to as malignant. Cell migration is a critical step in this process. The ability of tumor cells to migrate and invade is partly controlled by proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes are secreted by either the tumor cells themselves or adjacent cells. They represent all classes of proteases, including serine and cysteine proteases. Serine proteases, in particular urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), initiate a proteolytic cascade that culminates in degrading components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Some serine proteases are controlled by a superfamily of proteins known as serpins. This minireview provides an overview of serpins that are vital in regulating tumor cell migration and progressing cancer.
Muḥammad, the Keys to Paradise, and the Doctrina Iacobi: A Late Antique Puzzle
Authors: Anthony Sean W.
Published: November 2014

Abstract: One the earliest non-Islamic testimonies to the existence of the Prophet Muḥammad can be found within the Byzantine apologetic tract known as the
Le plus ancien sauf-conduit arabe
Authors: Vanthieghem Naïm
Published: November 2014

In the introduction of this paper, I briefly present population control in Early Islamic Egypt and show how tax payers were supposed to apply for safe conducts if they want to travel outside their fiscal districts. The main part of the article is devoted to the edition of the oldest Arabic safe conduct (P. Cambridge UL Inv. Michaelides A 112). The document dates from the time of the financial director Usāma ibn Zayd.
Lāwī b. Ismāʿīl b. Rabīʿ b. Sulaymān: An Unnoticed Jewish Convert to Islam in Fifth/Eleventh Century Al-Andalus
Authors: Wasserstein David J.
Published: November 2014

All Muslims have non-Muslim ancestors, in the Middle Ages often very few generations back in their genealogies. Despite its central importance for the formation of all Islamic societies, conversion to Islam is difficult to study. The principal reason is a lack of source material because few converts wished to advertise a non-Islamic background, together with the difficulty in recognizing and studying the sources that we have. Here a probable convert to Islam in North Africa or al-Andalus of the fifth/eleventh century is identified, using entries in the medieval Arabic biographical dictionaries. The identification is based on the man’s name and genealogy, whose elements are deconstructed and studied in the context of Arabic-Islamic onomastic behavior and of the character of the names it contains. Lāwī b. Ismāʿīl b. Rabīʿ b. Sulaymān was probably of Jewish background. Both the material and the methodology offer possible new ways to study this important process.
Aus dem Kitāb Aḥkām al-Qurʿān des Mālikiten Ibn Ḫawāz Mandād
Authors: Muranyi Miklos
Published: November 2014

Ibn Ḫawāz Mandād was a controversial representativ of the Iraqian school of Mālikism in the middle of the the 4/10 century. IGNAZ GOLDZIHER mentioned him for the first time as one of the opponents of
Endothelial and metabolic disorders in adolescence: low birth weight is not an isolated risk factor
Authors: dos Santos Alves Priscila de Jesus , P.T. Henriques Ana Ciléia , Pinto Livia R.M. , S. Mota Rosa Maria , M. Alencar Carlos Henrique , Alves Renata S. , C. Carvalho Francisco Herlânio
Published: November 2014

Low birth weight (LBW) seems to be a determining factor for many cardiovascular diseases in adult life.

The objectives of this study were to investigate the occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and endothelial dysfunction in adolescents with LBW and compare them with subjects with normal birth weights (NBW).

This retrospective cohort study evaluated 172 adolescents (86 in each group) aged 10–20 years, who were born in a reference maternity hospital. The following criteria were adopted: International Diabetes Federation parameters for the diagnosis of MetS and flow-mediated brachial artery dilatation for endothelial dysfunction. Student’s t-test or Mann-Whitney tests were used for continuous variables (depending on the normality of distribution evaluated by the Shapiro-Wilk test), and the Fisher exact test was used for categorical variables. The significance level was determined at 0.05.

MetS was present in three cases of LBW and in four cases of NBW (p=0.70). The number of components of the syndrome was, on average, 0.6 and 0.5 in LBW and NBW, respectively (p=0.77). Endothelial dysfunction occurred in 25 (29.1%) cases of LBW and in 31 (36.1%) cases of NBW (p=0.33).

LBW did not represent a risk factor in the occurrence of MetS or endothelial dysfunction in adolescence.
Inhibin B in adolescents and young adults with Turner syndrome
Authors: Messina Maria Francesca , Aversa Tommaso , Salzano Giuseppina , Costanzo Daria , Sferlazzas Concetta , Mirabelli Silvestro , Zirilli Giuseppina , Lombardo Fortunato
Published: November 2014

Primary gonadal failure may occur in most individuals with Turner syndrome (TS). Since ovaries in TS girls undergo premature apoptosis and cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is now feasible, it would be useful to identify a reliable marker of ovarian reserve in these patients. We planned to evaluate ovarian function in a group of TS patients by measuring both traditional markers and inhibin B and to compare these results with those of a control group.

We enrolled 23 patients with TS and 17 age-matched healthy girls. The median age of our TS patients was 17.6 years. Three out of the 23 patients (13%) showed spontaneous pubertal development and regular menstrual cycles; the remaining 20 (86.9%) presented with primary amenorrhea.

The median level of inhibin B in the TS patients with primary amenorrhea was 42 pg/mL and did not differ significantly among the different subgroups in relation to karyotype. The median inhibin B level in the control group was significantly higher than in the TS girls with primary amenorrhea (83 vs. 42 pg/mL, p<0.00001). In the three patients with TS and spontaneous menstrual cycles, the inhibin B levels were significantly higher when compared to the values of the TS girls with primary amenorrhea.

TS patients with primary amenorrhea have significantly lower levels of inhibin B than TS girls with spontaneous puberty and healthy controls. Inhibin B does not correlate with follicle-stimulating hormone/luteinizing hormone. If our results are confirmed in further studies, inhibin B could become a first-line screening test for assessing ovarian reserve and a longitudinal marker of the possible decline of ovarian function in TS.
Novel mutations in the SLC25A13 gene in a patient with NICCD and severe manifestations
Authors: Wang Hong , Shu Sainan , Chen Chen , Huang Zhihua , Wang DaoWen
Published: November 2014

Neonatal intrahepatic cholestatic due to citrin deficiency (NICCD) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the
Identification and isolation of putative stem cells from the murine placenta
Authors: Proudfit Christine L. , Chan Michael K. , Basch Ross S. , Young Bruce K.
Published: November 2014

The placenta of mid-gestation mice is a known rich source of hematopoietic stem cells. We hypothesized that it is also a source of other multipotent stem cells.

We isolated fetal cells from the murine placenta across the second half of gestation and characterized their expression of surface antigens known to be associated with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on a subset of hematopoietic lineage-negative cells. Using real-time reverse-transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we also evaluated the expression of intracellular transcription factors (TFs) known to be associated with renal development and/or multipotent stem cells.

Cell phenotypes with surface marker and TF expression consistent with multipotent stem cells of a mesenchymal lineage as well as renal cell progenitors were found in the placenta. The expression of MSC and renal progenitor surface markers varied throughout gestation, but was highest on E12–15 where such cells represented a small but significant percentage of the population. Of the studied TFs, 10 of 11 renal TFs were found at moderate to high levels, and all stem cell TFs were found.

The mid-gestation murine placenta may serve as a source of multipotent stem cells and also contains cells which may be renal cell progenitors.
Episodic Memory Encoding Interferes with Reward Learning and Decreases Striatal Prediction Errors
Authors: Wimmer G. Elliott , Braun Erin Kendall , Daw Nathaniel D. , Shohamy Daphna
Published: November 2014

Learning is essential for adaptive decision making. The striatum and its dopaminergic inputs are known to support incremental reward-based learning, while the hippocampus is known to support encoding of single events (episodic memory). Although traditionally studied separately, in even simple experiences, these two types of learning are likely to co-occur and may interact. Here we sought to understand the nature of this interaction by examining how incremental reward learning is related to concurrent episodic memory encoding. During the experiment, human participants made choices between two options (colored squares), each associated with a drifting probability of reward, with the goal of earning as much money as possible. Incidental, trial-unique object pictures, unrelated to the choice, were overlaid on each option. The next day, participants were given a surprise memory test for these pictures. We found that better episodic memory was related to a decreased influence of recent reward experience on choice, both within and across participants. fMRI analyses further revealed that during learning the canonical striatal reward prediction error signal was significantly weaker when episodic memory was stronger. This decrease in reward prediction error signals in the striatum was associated with enhanced functional connectivity between the hippocampus and striatum at the time of choice. Our results suggest a mechanism by which memory encoding may compete for striatal processing and provide insight into how interactions between different forms of learning guide reward-based decision making.