bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dune coast − the state just prior to the construction of hard engineering protection structures (Ustka-Jarosławiec, the Southern Baltic)
Authors: Sitkiewicz Patryk , Wróblewski Radosław , Rudowski Stanisław
Published: October 2015

The state of a fragment of the southern Baltic Sea shore was assessed on the basis of historical maps, aerial images, the digital elevation model and the data on the geological structure of the nearshore bottom. The alternate erosion and accumulation sections of the coast were observed. They are moving toward the east related to the migration of mega beach cusps. The infrastructure of the military training ground located in the western part of the study area is threatened with abrasion. In 1889-2012, the nearby seashore retreated by an average of 257±11.5 m. The recorded average rate of changes for the period of 1989-2012 was -2.6±0.22 m year-1. In the eastern part of the study area, at the bottom of the nearshore, a thick layer of sand determines the development of new accumulation sections of the coast. The state of the seashore, recognized in this paper, will change due to the construction of four concrete sea-walls. Their operation will disrupt the natural processes described in these studies.
The Debussyist Ear
Authors: Kieffer Alexandra
Published: October 2015

Musicologists have long recognized that “sensation” played an important role in the musical culture of debussysme. Close readings of the writings of Debussy and his circle in the first decade of the twentieth century reveal that a key, though often overlooked, aspect of Debussyist sensation is a specifically auditory one—a special mode of attentive listening that claims a privileged knowledge of the natural phenomenon of sound. This account of sensation and listening, which both recapitulates and critiques central components of Helmholtzian sensory physiology, puts Debussy and Debussyism in dialogue with a network of late-nineteenth- and earlytwentieth-century discourses on the limits of sensory knowledge and resultant problems of representation. Considering Debussyism in this light demonstrates the extent to which musical culture in this period negotiated a modernist crisis of representation salient across high-art culture around the turn of the twentieth century even as it inflected this problem specifically toward issues of sound and listening.
Immunomodulatory activity of extracellular Hsp70 mediated via paired receptors Siglec‐5 and Siglec‐14
Authors: Fong Jerry J , Sreedhara Karthik , Deng Liwen , Varki Nissi M , Angata Takashi , Liu Qinglian , Nizet Victor , Varki Ajit
Published: October 2015

The intracellular chaperone heat‐shock protein 70 (Hsp70) can be secreted from cells, but its extracellular role is unclear, as the protein has been reported to both activate and suppress the innate immune response. Potential immunomodulatory receptors on myelomonocytic lineage cells that bind extracellular Hsp70 are not well defined. Siglecs are Ig‐superfamily lectins on mammalian leukocytes that recognize sialic acid‐bearing glycans and thereby modulate immune responses. Siglec‐5 and Siglec‐14, expressed on monocytes and neutrophils, share identical ligand‐binding domains but have opposing signaling functions. Based on phylogenetic analyses of these receptors, we predicted that endogenous sialic acid‐independent ligands should exist. An unbiased screen revealed Hsp70 as a ligand for Siglec‐5 and Siglec‐14. Hsp70 stimulation through Siglec‐5 delivers an anti‐inflammatory signal, while stimulation through Siglec‐14 is pro‐inflammatory. The functional consequences of this interaction are also addressed in relation to a SIGLEC14 polymorphism found in humans. Our results demonstrate that an endogenous non‐sialic acid‐bearing molecule can be either a danger‐associated or self‐associated signal through paired Siglecs, and may explain seemingly contradictory prior reports on extracellular Hsp70 action.
Theoretical Principles of Researching Diminutive
Authors: Mintsys E. , Mintsys Yu.
Published: October 2015

The article presents a survey of the diminutive-related researches and considersdiminutive on all the language levels (morphological, lexical and syntactical). It analyzes theprincipal theories of the development of diminutive’s semantics and draws a distinction linebetween ‚smallness‛ and ‚diminutive‛. Diminutive is viewed versus augmentative and ispresented as a conceptual category, a system of semantic criteria which collectively denotediminution of objective characteristics of an object
Poetical Peculiarities of Satirical Depiction of the Novel “Hard Times” by Ch. Dickens and the Short Story “Zabobon” by Les Martovych (Comparative-Typological Aspect)
Authors: Bogachevska L.
Published: October 2015

The article is devoted to the comparative-typological analysis of the satirical works“Hard times” by Ch. Dickens and “Zabobon” by Les Martovych. This investigation regardsdifferent means of satirical depiction such as contrast, hyperbole, characters’ specific manner ofspeech
Improving Quality and Efficiency for Intussusception Management After Successful Enema Reduction
Authors: Raval Mehul V. , Minneci Peter C. , Deans Katherine J. , Kurtovic Kelli J. , Dietrich Ann , Bates D. Gregory , Rangel Shawn J. , Moss R. Lawrence , Kenney Brian D.
Published: October 2015

OBJECTIVES:

The purpose of this project was to implement a protocol facilitating discharge from the emergency department (ED) after successful radiologic ileocolic intussusception reduction in a pediatric referral center.

METHODS:

A multidisciplinary team identified drivers for successful quality improvement including educational brochures, a standardized radiologic report, an observation period in the ER with oral hydration challenges, and follow-up phone calls the day after discharge. Patient outcomes were tracked, and quarterly feedback was provided.

RESULTS:

Of 80 patients identified over a 24-month period, 34 (42.5%) did not qualify for discharge home due to need for surgical intervention (n = 9), specific radiologic findings (n = 11), need for additional intravenous hydration (n = 4), or other reasons (n = 7). Of 46 patients who qualified for discharge, 30 (65.2%) were successfully sent home from the ED. One patient returned with recurrent symptoms that required repeat enema reduction. Sixteen patients were observed and discharged within 23 hours. Adherence with discharge from the ED improved over time. Discharge from the ED was associated with cost savings and improved net margins at the hospital level for each encounter.

CONCLUSIONS:

A sustainable multidisciplinary quality improvement project to discharge intussusception patients from the ED after air-contrast enema reduction was successfully integrated in a high-volume referral center through education, standardized radiologic reporting, and protocoled follow-up.
Child Health Disparities: What Can a Clinician Do?
Authors: Cheng Tina L. , Emmanuel Mickey A. , Levy Daniel J. , Jenkins Renee R.
Published: October 2015

Pediatric primary and specialty practice has changed, with more to do, more regulation, and more family needs than in the past. Similarly, the needs of patients have changed, with more demographic diversity, family stress, and continued health disparities by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. How can clinicians continue their dedicated service to children and ensure health equity in the face of these changes? This article outlines specific, practical, actionable, and evidence-based activities to help clinicians assess and address health disparities in practice. These tools may also support patient-centered medical home recognition, national and state cultural and linguistic competency standards, and quality benchmarks that are increasingly tied to payment. Clinicians can play a critical role in (1) diagnosing disparities in one’s community and practice, (2) innovating new models to address social determinants of health, (3) addressing health literacy of families, (4) ensuring cultural competence and a culture of workplace equity, and (5) advocating for issues that address the root causes of health disparities. Culturally competent care that is sensitive to the needs, health literacy, and health beliefs of families can increase satisfaction, improve quality of care, and increase patient safety. Clinical care approaches to address social determinants of health and interrupting the intergenerational cycle of disadvantage include (1) screening for new health “vital signs” and connecting families to resources, (2) enhancing the comprehensiveness of services, (3) addressing family health in pediatric encounters, and (4) moving care outside the office into the community. Health system investment is required to support clinicians and practice innovation to ensure equity.
Lithium in the Acute Treatment of Bipolar I Disorder: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Findling Robert L. , Robb Adelaide , McNamara Nora K. , Pavuluri Mani N. , Kafantaris Vivian , Scheffer Russell , Frazier Jean A. , Rynn Moira , DelBello Melissa , Kowatch Robert A. , Rowles Brieana M. , Lingler Jacqui , Martz Karen , Anand Ravinder , Clemons Traci E. , Taylor-Zapata Perdita
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND:

Lithium is a benchmark treatment for bipolar disorder in adults. Definitive studies of lithium in pediatric bipolar I disorder (BP-I) are lacking.

METHODS:

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of pediatric participants (ages 7–17 years) with BP-I/manic or mixed episodes compared lithium (n = 53) versus placebo (n = 28) for up to 8 weeks. The a priori primary efficacy measure was change from baseline to the end of study (week 8/ET) in the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) score, based on last-observation-carried-forward analysis.

RESULTS:

The change in YMRS score was significantly larger in lithium-treated participants (5.51 [95% confidence interval: 0.51 to 10.50]) after adjustment for baseline YMRS score, age group, weight group, gender, and study site (P = .03). Overall Clinical Global Impression–Improvement scores favored lithium (n = 25; 47% very much/much improved) compared with placebo (n = 6; 21% very much/much improved) at week 8/ET (P = .03). A statistically significant increase in thyrotropin concentration was seen with lithium (3.0 ± 3.1 mIU/L) compared with placebo (–0.1 ± 0.9 mIU/L; P < .001). There was no statistically significant between-group difference with respect to weight gain.

CONCLUSIONS:

Lithium was superior to placebo in reducing manic symptoms in pediatric patients treated for BP-I in this clinical trial. Lithium was generally well tolerated in this patient population and was not associated with weight gain, distinguishing it from other agents commonly used to treat youth with bipolar disorder.
Childhood Health and Developmental Outcomes After Cesarean Birth in an Australian Cohort
Authors: Robson Stephen J. , Vally Hassan , Abdel-Latif Mohamed E. , Yu Maggie , Westrupp Elizabeth
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Concerns have been raised about associations between cesarean delivery and childhood obesity and asthma. However, published studies have not examined the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes or fully addressed confounding influences. We used data from the LSAC (Longitudinal Study of Australian Children) to explore the relationship between cesarean delivery and physical and socio-emotional outcomes from 0 to 7 years, taking into account confounding factors.

METHODS:

Data were from 5 waves of LSAC representing 5107 children born in 2003 and 2004. Outcome measures included: global health, asthma, BMI, use of prescribed medication, general development, medical conditions and/or disabilities, special health care needs, and socio-emotional development. Models adjusted for birth factors, social vulnerability, maternal BMI, and breastfeeding.

RESULTS:

Children born by cesarean delivery were more likely to have a medical condition at 2 to 3 years (odds ratio: 1.33; P = .03), use prescribed medication at 6 to 7 years (odds ratio: 1.26; P = .04), and have a higher BMI at 8 to 9 years (coefficient: 0.08; P = .05), although this last effect was mediated by maternal obesity. Parent-reported quality of life for children born by cesarean delivery was lower at 8 to 9 years (coefficient: –0.08; P = .03) but not at younger ages. Contrasting this finding, cesarean delivery was associated with better parent-reported global health at 2 to 3 years (odds ratio: 1.23; P = .05) and prosocial skills at age 6 to 7 years (coefficient: 0.09; P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS:

Cesarean delivery was associated with a mix of positive and negative outcomes across early childhood, but overall there were few associations, and these were not consistent across the 5 waves. This study does not support a strong association between cesarean delivery and poorer health or neurodevelopmental outcomes in childhood.
Racial and Regional Differences in Rates of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease
Authors: de St Maurice Annabelle , Grijalva Carlos G. , Fonnesbeck Christopher , Schaffner William , Halasa Natasha B.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) remains an important cause of illness in US children. We assessed the impact of introduction of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) on pediatric IPD rates, as well as changes in racial and regional differences in IPD, in Tennessee.

METHODS:

Data from active laboratory and population-based surveillance of IPD were used to compare IPD rates in the early-PCV7 (2001–2004), late-PCV7 (2005–2009), and post-PCV13 (2011–2012) eras. IPD rates were further stratified according to age, race, and region (east and middle-west TN).

RESULTS:

Among children aged <2 years, IPD rates declined by 70% from 67 to 19 per 100 000 person-years in the early-PCV7 era and post-PCV13 era, respectively. Similar decreasing trends in IPD rates were observed in older children aged 2 to 4 years and 5 to 17 years. In the late-PCV7 era, IPD rates in children aged <2 years were higher in black children compared with white children (70 vs 43 per 100 000 person-years); however, these racial differences in IPD rates were no longer significant after PCV13 introduction. Before PCV13, IPD rates in children aged <2 years were also higher in east Tennessee compared with middle-west Tennessee (91 vs 45 per 100 000 person-years), but these differences were no longer significant in the post-PCV13 era.

CONCLUSIONS:

PCV13 introduction led to substantial declines in childhood IPD rates and was associated with reduced regional and racial differences in IPD rates in Tennessee.
Screening of Significant Variables for Sliced Frying Fish Ball using Plackett–Burman Design
Authors: Syamdidi Syamdidi , Suryaningrum Theresia Dwi
Published: October 2015

Screening of significant variables of Sliced Frying Fish Ball (Basreng) has been conducted using Plackett-Burman Design, a statistical method commonly used to reveal the significance of variables in the product development. Four variables were selected namely tapioca flour, potato flour, fish, and frying time. Twelve formulations were peformed and the final products were analyzed for their sensory and texture parameters. Six responses were chosen (appearance, color, odor, taste, texture, overall acceptance and hardness) and then evaluated based on their significance, coefficient value and ranking test through appropriate statistical analysis. The result showed that four variables gave positive and negative effects to the products. Based on overall ranking test, tapioca flour was placed at the first place meaning that it had highest desirable properties followed by frying time, potato flour, and fish flesh. The overall rank test for each ingredient and the attributes provided a reliable data/information to select the most compatible ingredients for further optimization experiment.
Mechanical Properties and Biodegradability of Acid-soluble Chitosan-Starch Based Film
Authors: Rachmawati Novalia , Triwibowo Radestya , Widianto Roni
Published: October 2015

Chitosan-starch blend film showed desirable elongation and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) values and demonstrated rapid degradation in soil burial treatment. The incorporation of higher glycerol concentration lowered tensile strength but increased the amount of transmittable water vapour. The biodegradability of chitosan-starch based film was tested using soil burial test. Chitosan-starch blend films were able to degrade naturally at slightly similar period, ranging from 72–87 days. The addition of glycerol was likely contributed to the high Water Vapour Transmission Rate (WVTR) value which faster the biodegradability of the film in soil. Among different type of acid solutions, lactic acid is less preferable solution to dissolve chitosan as it produced film with poor mechanical properties compared to acetic and formic acid. Based on its mechanical limitation, the film can be used as a coating based film for certain type of fish product, especially product with high lipid content.
Holy Sites, Archaeological Monuments and the Perennial Contest over Material Heritage
Authors: Rountree Kathryn
Published: October 2015

The article examines several cases of contested sites, situating the sometimes fraught relationship between proponents of religion and archaeology—with their competing claims to authority and ‘truth’—within the longstanding contest between Religion and Science. In particular the article addresses cases where sites in Greece (classical temples), Ireland (the Hill of Tara), Britain (Avebury, Stonehenge, the Rollright Stones) and Estonia have been contested by archaeologists and modern Pagans. Such contests begin with the ways in which places are named and discursively framed (‘holy’ or ‘sacred place’ versus ‘archaeological site’), which in turn have material consequences for what happens at sites: how they are presented, represented, preserved, experienced and made available for different kinds of use by different kinds of people. The paper shows that archaeologists and Pagans are not always on opposite sides. Given that the State frequently has the ultimate power to determine what happens at heritage sites, Pagans’ alignments or negotiations with State agendas in relation to sites can make a difference to their ability to contribute to sites’ meanings, management, protection and use.
Paganism, Archaeology and Folklore in Twenty-first Century Britain: A Case Study of ‘The Stonehenge Ancestors’
Authors: Wallis Robert J.
Published: October 2015

Previous scholarship on Paganism and archaeology has considered Pagan engagements with prehistoric ‘sacred sites’ as ‘new folklore’, examining how Pagan meanings are inscribed and constituted. Earlier work has also highlighted the importance of respect, dialogue and working together, to promote understanding and resolve tensions between Pagans and archaeologists. But antagonism endures: the ‘Avebury Consultation’ on reburial, for instance, resulting from certain Druid calls for the reburial of ancient human remains kept in the Alexander Keiller Museum; and heated exchanges between a group of Druids and archaeologists during excavations of cremated human remains from Aubrey hole 7 at Stonehenge. I focus on the latter case in which a new Pagan folklore of ‘the Stonehenge Guardians’ has emerged, partly based on archaeologists’ recent interpretations of Stonehenge, used by this minority of Pagans in protests against the long-term retention of human remains and to argue for their reburial. I conclude by reiterating how Pagans and archaeologists should and can work together.
Ecology, Spirituality, and Social Justice
Authors: Allison Elizabeth
Published: October 2015

Under the auspices of the Esalen Center for Theory and Research (CTR), twelve scholars from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, based at universities and institutes around the United States meet at the Esalen Institute, Jan. 26-31, 2014, to continue their research into the intersections of ecology, spirituality, and social justice. During our week at Esalen, we shared presentations on research projects that have developed and flourished within the supportive container of this group of like-minded scholars and activists.
Religion and Art
Authors: Coupar Regina
Published: October 2015

From my perspective as a working artist, both visual art and the connection with religion it enables, are experienced non-verbally as at once fluid and deliberately ambiguous. An active spectator willing to engage art in the same way may find the emotional and intellectual space needed for her religion to evolve beyond adherence to existing dogmas. Though theorizing is in a sense quite distant from this perspective, when theories are sought to illuminate this approach, it turns out that certain ideas from phenomenology and neuroscience are the ones most capable of doing so.
Guest Editor's Introduction
Authors: Rennie Bryan
Published: October 2015

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Editor's Introduction
Authors: Balch John
Published: October 2015

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Teaching Aids in General Education Schools: Provision and Usage
Authors: Kalvaitis Albinas
Published: October 2015

Lithuanian Education law establishes teachers’ right to choose the mean and form of his own pedagogical activity and teachers’ duty to ensure a good education quality. A possibility to choose and use right teaching aids – that is an important aspect of lessons’ quality. In the article the level of provision of various teaching aids and how different teaching aids are used during the lesson in general education schools in Lithuania is discussed. The analyse of the situation in these schools is based on a teachers’ survey that has been held by the author himself in 2013. In total 618 teachers, working in 221 different general education schools in Lithuania have been questioned. Results of the research show, that teaching and learning in Lithuanian general education schools are oriented to use only printed teaching aids, usually coursebooks. From all of the teaching aids the school has, teachers estimated only the amount of the coursebooks is estimated to be enough to conduct a lesson. Often Lithuanian teachers prefer to use handouts made by themselves in order to differentiate and individualize the teaching process. In conclusion the author suggests to accept and fulfil a new material provision paradigm, which would allow to create better conditions for pupils to use digital teaching aids.
Expression of Leadership Skills of Music Teacher
Authors: Talalienė Živilė , Šečkuvienė Henrika
Published: October 2015

Leadership in contemporary society is perceived as a process, which contributes to efficient solution of constantly emerging problems in business, pedagogical and social spheres. Over the last period a rapid progress of science and various technologies has been observed and leadership has acquired a significant status in education as well. To make leadership a natural phenomenon at school, there is a need for a harmoniously functioning link: authorities-leaders; teachers - leaders, who should educate a new generation of school learners-leaders. A teacher of music or a leader of music collective has to rally school learners for attainment of common goals: to develop music abilities during lessons of music; to satisfy needs for music expression during non-formal activities. Therefore, this mission may be implemented only by a teacher-leader.

The object of the research: leadership skills of music teacher.

The goal of the research: to reveal peculiarities of expression of music teacher’s leadership skills.

The research methods: analysis of scientific literature, semi-structured interview, qualitative content analysis.

The analysis of scientific literature on leadership issues was carried out during the research and leadership skills that are most characteristic of music teachers were highlighted. On the basis of the distinguished abilities, the model of expression of leadership skills of music teacher of general education school was designed. The semi-structured interview was conducted and its sample included six respondents. The data acquired during the interview were processed employing the qualitative content analysis.

The results of the research showed that the identified leadership skills of music teacher may be characterised through the following features:

• Motivation (inspiration) for music activities is manifested during lessons and extracurriculum music activities.

• Communication and collaboration is seen through joint activities with teachers of other study subjects, administration and learners’ parents. Successful communication is predetermined by friendly, sincere, mutual and responsible style of communication.

• Ability to solve problems that emerge during music activities is revealed through collaboration with class master, colleagues and specialists, clarification of situation, individual conversations, sincere communication, professional attitude, understanding of group needs, prioritising of the goal to be attained over personal needs.

• Management of stressful situations is expressed through recognition of conflict situations, application of various conflict resolution ways, control of emotions, positive attitude and understanding of behaviour, which typical of a certain age group of a learner.

The research results showed that leadership skills are very important to successful activities of a music teacher because a music teacher-leader has a vision and able to rally children for joint music activities to achieve as good results as possible.
Expression of Capacities of Future Teachers after Performing of their Pedagogical Practice and Directions of their Improvement
Authors: Barkauskaitė Marijona , Guoba Andrius
Published: October 2015

Education, school, teacher are considered as the main factors for the societal development in the process of the rapid changing. Thus training of the competent pedagogue is indicated as the main objective for the education strategy. For pursuit and realising of quality training it is of crucial importance to have the feedback and information from the future teachers after performing of their pedagogical practice in schools. Through self-assessment of their capacities in solving problems encountered in organizing educational process, as well as assessment of their pedagogical capacities provided by the teachers and teacher-experts, can determine and scientifically evidence directions and forms for improvement of the study process of teacher training.

Data of the scientific research indicated that future teachers after self-assessment of their own capacities after performing of their pedagogical practice, already have majority of capacities required within the educational process. This was proven also by the teachers and teacher-experts. Nevertheless respondents indicated capacities and competencies that were lacking for the work with pupils. Those are: difficulties in raising concrete targets for the lesson, managing class, motivating and assessing pupils, individualising teaching process, etc. Research has also justified the need and directions for improvement of the studies and concrete subject.
Fast solidification kinetics of parts of bituminous binders
Authors: Fischer Hartmut R. , Dillingh Bert , Ingenhut Bastiaan
Published: October 2015

A quantification of the kinetics of formation of the micro-phases in bitumen during cooling as it occurs in applications, e.g. a road pavement will enable a better prediction of the performance of asphalt in models and an understanding of functional properties and their development in time. This microphase formation is part of the process of physical ageing (hardening) and starts almost immediately after or instantaneously during cooling. The earlier proposed process of liquid liquid demixing within bitumen upon cooling is followed by a, at the beginning homogeneously nucleated and three-dimensional crystallization, which changes in the course of crystallization to 2-dimensional crystal growth and mixed nucleation, both homogeneous and heterogeneous.
Prognostic Value of Coronary Flow Reserve in Patients with Dialysis-Dependent ESRD
Authors: Shah Nishant R. , Charytan David M. , Murthy Venkatesh L. , Skali Lami Hicham , Veeranna Vikas , Cheezum Michael K. , Taqueti Viviany R. , Kato Takashi , Foster Courtney R. , Hainer Jon , Gaber Mariya , Klein Josh , Dorbala Sharmila , Blankstein Ron , Di Carli Marcelo F.
Published: October 2015

Capillary rarefaction of the coronary microcirculation is a consistent phenotype in patients with dialysis-dependent ESRD (dd-ESRD) and may help explain their excess mortality. Global coronary flow reserve (CFR) assessed by positron emission tomography (PET) is a noninvasive, quantitative marker of myocardial perfusion and ischemia that integrates the hemodynamic effects of epicardial stenosis, diffuse atherosclerosis, and microvascular dysfunction. We tested whether global CFR provides risk stratification in patients with dd-ESRD. Consecutive patients with dd-ESRD clinically referred for myocardial perfusion PET imaging were retrospectively included, excluding patients with prior renal transplantation. Per-patient CFR was calculated as the ratio of stress to rest absolute myocardial blood flow. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, including age, overt cardiovascular disease, and myocardial scar/ischemia burden, were used to assess the independent association of global CFR with all–cause and cardiovascular mortality. The incremental value of global CFR was assessed with relative integrated discrimination index and net reclassification improvement. In 168 patients included, median global CFR was 1.4 (interquartile range, 1.2–1.8). During follow-up (median of 3 years), 36 patients died, including 21 cardiovascular deaths. Log–transformed global CFR independently associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.01 per 0.5-unit increase; 95% confidence interval, <0.01 to 0.14; P<0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio, 0.01 per 0.5-unit increase; 95% confidence interval, <0.01 to 0.15; P=0.002). For all-cause mortality, addition of global CFR resulted in risk reclassification in 27% of patients. Thus, global CFR may provide independent and incremental risk stratification for all–cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with dd-ESRD.
Aan die en besig in Afrikaanse progressiwiteits-konstruksies: 'n korpusondersoek (2)
Authors: Breed A , van Huyssteen G
Published: October 2015

In 'n tweetal artikels (hierdie artikel en Breed & Van Huyssteen 2014) stel ons ondersoek in na die wyse waarop twee perifrastiese konstruksies, te wete die VKOP besig om te V- en die VKOP aan die V-konstruksies, gebruik word om progressiewe betekenis in Afrikaans uit te druk. Die bespreking word gebaseer op 'n korpusondersoek waarin drie Afrikaanse perifrastiese progressiewe konstruksies (d.i. die twee genoemde konstruksies, sowel as die VPOS en V-konstruksie; sien Breed 2012 en Breed & Brisard 2015) met mekaar vergelyk is. Drie ewekniekonstruksies word in Nederlands gevind, en daarom word die konstruksies ook, waar ter sake, met die Nederlandse konstruksies vergelyk. In Breed (2012) word die grammatikaliseringsproses verduidelik, en daar word aangetoon dat die aan die-/aan het-konstruksies lokatiewe oorsprong het, terwyl die oorsprong van die besig-/bezig-konstruksies leksikaal gemotiveerd is. In hierdie artikel word die frekwensie van die twee konstruksies ondersoek en daar word bewys dat daar aansienlike verskille tussen die verspreiding van die Afrikaanse en Nederlandse konstruksies is. Die werkwoorde waarmee elk van die konstruksies prototipies kombineer, word bestudeer en daar word bevind dat die Afrikaanse besig-konstruksie met 'n groot aantal werkwoordtipes kan kombineer, terwyl die aan die-progressiefkonstruksie meer gespesialiseerd is.
Die effek van 'n troeteldier-ondersteunde leesprogram op woordherkenningsvaardighede van graad 3-kinders
Authors: le Roux M , Swartz L , Swart E
Published: October 2015

Die doel van die huidige studie was om die effek van 'n troeteldier-ondersteunde leesprogram (TOL) op die woordherkenningsvaardighede van graad 3-kinders te bepaal. Al die kinders wat met behulp van die ESSI Leestoets as nievaardige lesers (N=102) geïdentifiseer is, is ewekansig toegewys aan drie eksperimentele groepe en een kontrolegroep. Een maal per week vir 10 weke lank het die Leeshondgroep (n=27) vir 'n leeshond in die teenwoordigheid van 'n Pets as Therapy-vrywilliger gelees, die Volwassenegroep (n=24) het slegs vir 'n volwassene gelees terwyl die Teddiebeergroep (n=26) vir 'n teddiebeer in die teenwoordigheid van 'n volwassene gelees het. Die Kontrolegroep (n=25) het voortgegaan met hul normale skoolaktiwiteite. Die kinders in die drie eksperimentele groepe het individueel vir ongeveer 20 minute gelees uit graad 1-, 2- en 3-vlak boekies. Data-insameling het plaasgevind voor die aanvang van die leesprogram (Tyd 1), direk ná voltooiing van die leesprogram (Tyd 2) en met 'n opvolgmeting agt weke later (Tyd 3). Die resultate het getoon dat die kinders in die Leeshondgroep op 'n beduidend hoër graadvlak gelees het tydens Tyd 2 en Tyd 3 as die ander drie groepe.
Caffeic Acid Inhibits NFkappaB Activation of Osteoclastogenesis Signaling Pathway
Authors: Sandra Ferry , Kukita Toshio , Tang Quan Yong , Iijima Tadahiko
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: Caffeic acid (3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acids) is involved in various green plants. Based on our previous report, a major component of sweet potato extracts, possibly caffeic acid, was shown as a promising inhibitor of osteoclastogenesis. However, the effect of caffeic acid in inhibiting osteoclastogenesis needs to be confirmed. The underlying mechanism needs to be disclosed as well.METHODS: Caffeic acid in various concentrations was added to in vitro osteoclastogenesis of receptor activator nuclear factor kB ligand (RANKL)-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF)-induced bone marrow-derived monocyte/macrophage precursor cells (BMMs) and RANKL-TNF-α-induced RAW264 cells D-Clone (RAW-D cells). Tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was performed and TRAP-positive polynucleated cells (PNCs) were counted. For apoptosis analysis, caffeic acid-treated BMMs, RAW-D cells and osteoclast-like PNCs were subjected to Sub-G1 Apoptosis and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays. To measure NFkB activity, RAW-D cells were transfected with pNFkB-TA-Luc and subjected to Dual Luciferase Reporter Assay System.RESULTS: Caffeic acid inhibited osteoclastogenesis of RANKL-TNF-α-M-CSF-induced BMMs as well as RANKL-TNF-α-induced RAW-D cells in a dose dependent manner. Caffeic acid did not induce apoptosis in BMMs, RAW-D cells and osteoclast-like PNCs. RANKL-TNF-α-induced NFkB activity in RAW-D was diminished by caffeic acid in a dose dependent manner. Significant NFkB activity inhibtion was observed starting from 1 µg/mL caffeic acid. CONCLUSIONS: Caffeic acid could be a potent osteoclastogenesis inhibitor through inhibition of NFkB activity. Our present study should be further followed up to disclose caffeic acid's possible overlying signaling pathways in inhibiting osteoclastogenesis.KEYWORDS: caffeic acid, osteoclastogenesis, NFkB, RANKL, TNF-α
The Dynamic Roles of Visfatin and Obestatin Serum Concentration in Pancreatic Beta Cells Dysfunction (HOMA-beta) and Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) in Centrally Obese Men
Authors: Putera Bayu Winata , Sartika Cynthia Retna , Wijaya Andi
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a major health problem in the world today. Obesity is closely associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Epidemiological studies have shown that obese persons are in a state of insulin resistance, however, most of them do not progress to type 2 diabetes. This occurs because the beta cell function is still good enough for maintaining normal glucose level. Obestatin and visfatin are cytokines that are known to have a role in beta cell function. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between visfatin and obestatin and Homeostasis Model Assessment of beta cell function (HOMA-β) and Homeostasis Model Assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 80 central obesity men with waist circumference >90 cm, age 30-65 years old. Visfatin and obestatin were measured by ELISA method. Beta pancreas cell dysfunction and insulin resistance were calculated by HOMA model.RESULTS: Our study showed a correlation between visfatin and HOMA-β (r=0.244 and p = 0.029) and visfatin with HOMA-IR (r=0.287 and p=0.001) and no correlation was found between obestatin with HOMA-β (r=0.010 and p=0.990) and obestatin with HOMA-IR (r=0.080 and p=0.480). We also found visfatin and obestatin concentrations were fluctuative depending on the measurements of the waist circumferences.CONCLUSIONS: High visfatin and low obestatin concentration were independently associated with increased beta pancreas cell dysfunction and insulin resistance.KEYWORDS: obesity. visfatin, obestatin, beta cell dysfunction (HOMA-β), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)
Association Between Cathepsin S, Cystatin C and High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) with Oxidized LDL (Ox-LDL) in Men with Central Obesity
Authors: Harefa Emmy F , Patellongi Ilhamjaya , Kaniawati Marita
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: Inflammation is a central feature of the atherosclerotic process particularly in obesity. hsCRP, a marker of inflammation, may be directly involved in all phases of atheroslerosis by complement activation, apoptosis, vascular cell activation, monocyte recruitment, lipid accumulation and thrombosis. Inflammation has a causal relationship with cysteine proteases including cathepsin S. Therefore, cathepsin S is considered as a molecular link between obesity and atherosclerosis. An imbalance between elastolytic cysteine proteases, cathepsin S and its inhibitor, cystatin C, is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Some studies have shown that increased circulating levels of cathepsin S, hsCRP and cystatin C in inflammatory conditions contribute to atherosclerosis. This study was conducted to investigate the associations between ox-LDL and cathepsin S, and cystatin C and hsCRP in men with central obesity.METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 71 male subjects with central obesity (waist circumference ≥90 cm), with no renal dysfunction, aged 30-60 years.RESULTS: Cathepsin S did not have a significant correlation with ox-LDL (r=0.158, p=0.096). ox-LDL had positive correlation with cystatin C (r=0.156; p=0.029) and hsCRP (r=0.204; p=0.045), and cathepsin S/cystatin C ratios (r=0.360; p=0.024) at level >91 U/L (median ox-LDL).CONCLUSIONS: There were associations between ox-LDL and cystatin C, hsCRP and cathepsin S/cystatin C ratios in men with central obesity.KEYWORDS: obesity, inflammation, atherosclerosis, hsCRP, cystatin C, cathepsin S, ox-LDL
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells for Future Regenerative System Medicine
Authors: Lina Yani , Wijaya Andi
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: The potential use of stem cell-based therapies for repair and regeneration of various tissues and organs offers a paradigm shift that may provide alternative therapeutic solutions for a number of disease. Despite the advances, the availability of stem cells remaining a challenge for both scientist and clinicians in pursuing regenerative medicine. CONTENT: Subcutaneous human adipose tissue is an abundant and accessible cell source for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Routinely, the adipose issue is digested with collagenase or related lytic enzymes to release a heterogeneous population for stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells. The SVF cells can be used directly or can be cultured in plastic ware for selection and expansion of an adherent population known as adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs). Their potential in the ability to differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic and other mesenchymal lineages, as well in their other clinically useful properties, includes stimulation of angiogenesis and suppression of inflammation.SUMMARY: Adipose tissue is now recognized as an accessible, abundant and reliable site for the isolation of adult stem cels suitable for the application of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. The past decade has witnessed an explosion of preclinical data relating to the isolation, characterization, cryopreservation, differentiation, and transplantation of freshly isolated stromal vascular fraction cells and adherent, culture-expanded, adipose-derived stromal/stem cells in vitro and in animal models.KEYWORDS: adipose tissue, adult stem cells, regenerative medicine, mesenchymal stem cells
Fire ecology of C3and C4grasses depends on evolutionary history and frequency of burning but not photosynthetic type
Authors: Ripley Brad , Visser Vernon , Christin Pascal-Antoine , Archibald Sally , Martin Tarryn , Osborne Colin
Published: October 2015

Grasses using the C4photosynthetic pathway dominate frequently burned savannas, where the pathway is hypothesized to be adaptive. However, independent C4lineages also sort among different fire environments. Adaptations to fire may thus depend on evolutionary history, which could be as important as the possession of the C4photosynthetic pathway for life in these environments. Here, using a comparative pot experiment and controlled burn, we examined C3and C4grasses belonging to four lineages from the same regional flora, and asked the following questions: Do lineages differ in their responses to fire, are responses consistent between photosynthetic types, and are responses related to fire frequency in natural habitats? We found that in the C4Andropogoneae lineage, frost killed a large proportion of aboveground biomass and produced a large dry fuel load, which meant that only a small fraction of the living tissue was lost in the fire. C3species from the Paniceae and Danthonioideae lineages generated smaller fuel loads and lost more living biomass, while species from the C4lineageAristidagenerated the smallest fuel loads and lost the most living tissue. Regrowth after the fire was more rapid and complete in the C4Andropogoneae and C3Paniceae, but incomplete and slower in the C3Danthonioideae and C4Aristida. Rapid recovery was associated with high photosynthetic rates, high specific leaf area, delayed flowering, and frequent fires in natural habitats. Results demonstrated that phylogenetic lineage was more important than photosynthetic type in determining the fire response of these grasses and that fire responses were related to the frequency that natural habitats burned.
Global patterns, trends, and drivers of water use efficiency from 2000 to 2013
Authors: Xue Bao-Lin , Guo Qinghua , Otto Alvarez , Xiao Jingfeng , Tao Shengli , Li Le
Published: October 2015

Water use efficiency (WUE; gross primary production [GPP]/evapotranspiration [ET]) estimates the tradeoff between carbon gain and water loss during photosynthesis and is an important link of the carbon and water cycles. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns and drivers of WUE is helpful for projecting the responses of ecosystems to climate change. Here we examine the spatiotemporal patterns, trends, and drivers of WUE at the global scale from 2000 to 2013 using the gridded GPP and ET data derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Our results show that the global WUE has an average value of 1.70 g C/kg H2O with large spatial variability during the 14‐year period. WUE exhibits large variability with latitude. WUE also varies much with elevation: it first remains relatively constant as the elevation varies from 0 to 1000 m and then decreases dramatically. WUE generally increases as precipitation and specific humidity increase; whereas it decreases after reaching maxima as temperature and solar radiation increases. In most land areas, the temporal trend of WUE is positively correlated with precipitation and specific humidity over the 14‐year period; while it has a negative relationship with temperature and solar radiation related to global warming and dimming. On average, WUE shows an increasing trend of 0.0025 g C·kg−1 H2O·yr−1 globally. Our global‐scale assessment of WUE has implications for improving our understanding of the linkages between the water and carbon cycles and for better projecting the responses of ecosystems to climate change.
Between Inclusion and Participation: Young Carers Who Are Absent From School
Authors: Kaiser Steffen , Schulze Gisela C.
Published: October 2015

In discussions of inclusion and exclusion, one often-neglected group at high risk of exclusion is that of school absentees. Researchers and the public normally focus on truants and school refusers, whereas students absent from school to take care of family members, or young carers, have received little attention so far. Because of the multicausal factors and extensive impacts of the phenomenon, research on both school absentees and young carers suggests a need for interdisciplinary approaches. Yet, these approaches for support do not always succeed. This study investigated the interdisciplinary cooperation of those professionals in education, social work, and health care who work with young carers absent from school. It identified both barriers to and facilitators of this important cooperation. The aim is to create better support for the inclusion of this unnoticed group and to increase awareness of their situation among the professionals working with them.
Performance of Students With Special Educational Needs in Germany: Findings From Programme for International Student Assessment 2012
Authors: Gebhardt Markus , Sälzer Christine , Mang Julia , Müller Katharina , Prenzel Manfred
Published: October 2015

The reporting of findings from Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is an important part of educational monitoring in Germany. However, until now, the subsample of students with special educational needs (SEN) had been too small to single out this group and report findings. In PISA 2012, the sample of 9th-grade students in Germany was thus expanded by students with SEN in inclusive settings and students with SEN in an oversample of 49 special schools. This article describes and compares the proficiency of students with SEN in inclusive settings and in special schools. In all 3 PISA domains assessing literacy, reading, mathematics, and science, students with SEN in inclusive settings achieve proficiency Level 2, whereas students with SEN in special schools achieve proficiency Level 1. It turns out that students with SEN have a lower average socioeconomic status than regular students, especially those in special schools. Possible explanations for the higher achievement of students with SEN in inclusive settings are discussed.
Teachers’ Perceptions of Opportunities and Threats Concerning Inclusive Schooling in Germany at an Early Stage of Inclusion: Analyses of a Mixed Methodology Approach
Authors: Hintz Anna-Maria , Paal Michael , Urton Karolina , Krull Johanna , Wilbert Jürgen , Hennemann Thomas
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the perceived opportunities and threats of teachers working on a primary level in North Rhine Westphalia, Germany, regarding inclusive schooling. Two open-ended questions using a standardized paper-pencil-questionnaire format were administered to 452 general and 130 special education teachers. Results of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses indicated that both teacher groups expressed strong concerns related to students’ educational needs and learning opportunities. Nevertheless, their perceptions differ significantly in specific categories. General education teachers anticipate inclusive schooling to improve social school climate; however, they expressed several concerns: declining teaching quality, having insufficient professional skills themselves, higher work load, and lack of resources. Their special education colleagues expected improved learning opportunities would result for all students but were worried about changes in their professional role and the political realization of inclusive schooling. Implications for practice, limitations, and the need for future research are discussed.