bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estratégias utilizadas por cuidadores informais frente aos sintomas neuropsiquiátricos de idosos com demência.
Authors: Perdigão Lívia Mara Naves Barros , Almeida Simone Costa de , Assis Marcella Guimarães
Published: November 2017

Estudo objetiva discutir as estratégias que os cuidadores informais utilizaram frente aos sintomas neuropsiquiátricos de idosos com demência. Uma amostra de 26 cuidadores respondeu um questionário sociodemográfico, o Inventário Neuropsiquiátrico (NPI) e informou sobre as estratégias psicossociais utilizadas frente aos distúrbios neuropsiquiátricos. Os resultados foram descritos em frequência. A média de idade dos cuidadores foi de 57,54 anos; 84,61% do sexo feminino; 50% filhos dos idosos; e o tempo médio como cuidador foi de 7,51 anos. Os sintomas mais prevalentes foram apatia, agitação/agressividade, ansiedade e depressão. Os cuidadores relataram estratégias próprias para abordar as alterações de comportamento, e dentre as mais frequentes destacaram-se não confrontar o idoso; distraí-lo; envolvê-lo em atividades; utilizar o diálogo. As intervenções psicossociais podem facilitar o gerenciamento das alterações comportamentais na demência e diminuir a sobrecarga em relação ao cuidado, sendo importante oferecer aos cuidadores informações que contribuam para o enfrentamento dessas alterações.
Construindo-se terapeuta ocupacional no grupo de reflexão da prática: um espaço para ação-reflexão-ação.
Authors: Joaquim Regina Helena Vitale Torkomian , Marcolino Taís Quevedo , Cid Maria Fernanda Barboza
Published: November 2017

A formação em Terapia Ocupacional demanda diversificação de cenários e estratégias de ensino-aprendizagem. No terceiro ciclo da unidade de prática na UFSCar os estudantes subdividem-se em grupos de reflexão da prática, em processo de metodologia ativa, ancorada na espiral construtivista. O presente trabalho relata tal experiência por meio da análise temática dos registros docentes. Os temas abarcam (a) reflexões iniciais: acolhimento e questões institucionais; (b) compreensão das pessoas sob cuidado em terapia ocupacional; (c) lugar do campo/serviço/instituição; (d) singularidades dos sujeitos; (e) reflexões sobre ser terapeuta ocupacional; (f) responsabilidades, conceitos e instrumento de trabalho. Tal espaço para reflexão distancia-se das demandas urgentes da prática, gerando satisfação entre os estudantes, que percebem seus sentimentos, conceitos e valores que devem ser revisitados e, algumas vezes, transformados para o exercício da prática profissional.
A new species of the genus Vellozia (Velloziaceae) from Minas Gerais, Brazil, with comments on endemism, distribution and conservation
Authors: ALVES RUY JOSÉ VÁLKA , SADALA-CASTILHO RACHEL , LIMA HELOÍSA ALVES DE , GUIMARÃES ALESSANDRA RIBEIRO , WETZEL MARIA LUÍZA RIBEIRO , SILVA NÍLBER GONÇALVES DA
Published: November 2017

Vellozia fontellana is described as a new species from the Ibitipoca massif in Minas Gerais, Brazil. This heliophilous species has sometimes been identified as V. crinita in herbaria and recent literature, but is readily distinguished by morphology, anatomy and occurrence restricted to northward slopes exposed to full sun exposure. The original description of V. crinita, translated from Latin, is complemented by information gathered from our collections and observations in the type locality spanning the last three decades of field work.
Contributions of Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation to Global Ocean Heat Content Distribution
Authors: Hu Zeyuan , Hu Aixue , Hu Yongyun
Published: November 2017

Regional sea surface temperature (SST) mode variabilities, especially the La Niña–like Pacific Ocean temperature pattern known as the negative phase of the interdecadal Pacific oscillation (IPO) and the associated heat redistribution within the ocean, are the leading mechanisms explaining the recent global warming hiatus. Here version 1 of the Community Earth System Model (CESM) is used to examine how different phases of two leading decadal time scale SST modes, namely the IPO and the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO), contribute to heat redistribution in the global ocean in the absence of time-evolving external forcings. The results show that both the IPO and AMO contribute a similar magnitude to global mean surface temperature and ocean heat redistribution. Both modes contribute warmer surface temperature and higher upper ocean heat content in their positive phase, and the reverse in their negative phase. Regionally, patterns of ocean heat distribution in the upper few hundred meters of the tropical and subtropical Pacific Ocean depend highly on the IPO phase via the IPO-associated changes in the subtropical cell. In the Atlantic, ocean heat content is primarily associated with the state of the AMO. The interconnections between the IPO, AMO, and global ocean heat distribution are established through the atmospheric bridge and the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation. An in-phase variant of the IPO and AMO can lead to much higher surface temperatures and heat content changes than an out-of-phase variation. This result suggests that changes in the IPO and AMO are potentially capable of modulating externally forced SST and heat content trends.
Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) Energy Balanced and Filled (EBAF) Top-of-Atmosphere (TOA) Edition-4.0 Data Product
Authors: Loeb Norman G. , Doelling David R. , Wang Hailan , Su Wenying , Nguyen Cathy , Corbett Joseph G. , Liang Lusheng , Mitrescu Cristian , Rose Fred G. , Kato Seiji
Published: November 2017

The Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) Energy Balanced and Filled (EBAF) top-of-atmosphere (TOA), Edition 4.0 (Ed4.0), data product is described. EBAF Ed4.0 is an update to EBAF Ed2.8, incorporating all of the Ed4.0 suite of CERES data product algorithm improvements and consistent input datasets throughout the record. A one-time adjustment to shortwave (SW) and longwave (LW) TOA fluxes is made to ensure that global mean net TOA flux for July 2005–June 2015 is consistent with the in situ value of 0.71 W m−2. While global mean all-sky TOA flux differences between Ed4.0 and Ed2.8 are within 0.5 W m−2, appreciable SW regional differences occur over marine stratocumulus and snow/sea ice regions. Marked regional differences in SW clear-sky TOA flux occur in polar regions and dust areas over ocean. Clear-sky LW TOA fluxes in EBAF Ed4.0 exceed Ed2.8 in regions of persistent high cloud cover. Owing to substantial differences in global mean clear-sky TOA fluxes, the net cloud radiative effect in EBAF Ed4.0 is −18 W m−2 compared to −21 W m−2 in EBAF Ed2.8. The overall uncertainty in 1° × 1° latitude–longitude regional monthly all-sky TOA flux is estimated to be 3 W m−2 [one standard deviation (1 σ)] for the Terra-only period and 2.5 W m−2 for the Terra– Aqua period both for SW and LW fluxes. The SW clear-sky regional monthly flux uncertainty is estimated to be 6 W m−2 for the Terra-only period and 5 W m−2 for the Terra– Aqua period. The LW clear-sky regional monthly flux uncertainty is 5 W m−2 for Terra only and 4.5 W m−2 for Terra– Aqua.
The Sensitivity of Daily Temperature Variability and Extremes to Dataset Choice
Authors: Gross Mia H. , Donat Markus G. , Alexander Lisa V. , Sisson Scott A.
Published: November 2017

Robust conclusions regarding changes in the temperature distribution rely on the accuracy and reliability of the input datasets used. Differences between methodologies and datasets in previous studies add uncertainty when comparing and quantifying findings. Here, the authors investigate the sensitivity of assessing global and regional temperature variability and extremes over 1980–2014 in gridded datasets of daily temperature anomalies. A gridded in situ–based dataset, Hadley Centre Global Historical Climatology Network–Daily (HadGHCND), is compared against several commonly used reanalysis products by assessing both the entire distribution and the tails of the distribution. Empirical probability distribution functions show sensitivity to the input dataset when estimating aspects such as standard deviation and skewness, with the mean showing robust results for most regions, irrespective of dataset choice. Standard deviation is especially sensitive, with larger disagreements between datasets for some regions more than others, such as Africa and the Mediterranean region, and with larger differences in minimum temperatures compared with maximum temperatures. Estimates of extreme parameters also show sensitivity to dataset choice, particularly in the lower tails and for daily minimum temperature anomalies. Comparing changes in the means and the extremes of the temperature distributions, the cold extremes in the lower tails have been warming at a faster rate than the mean of the entire distribution for much of the Northern Hemisphere extratropics, with warm extremes warming at a faster rate than the mean in some subtropical regions. These documented sensitivities call for caution when assessing changes in temperature variability and extremes, as dataset choice can have substantial effects on results.
A Description of the Real-Time HFIP Corrected Consensus Approach (HCCA) for Tropical Cyclone Track and Intensity Guidance
Authors: Simon Anu , Penny Andrew B. , DeMaria Mark , Franklin James L. , Pasch Richard J. , Rappaport Edward N. , Zelinsky David A.
Published: November 2017

This study discusses the development of the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program (HFIP) Corrected Consensus Approach (HCCA) for tropical cyclone track and intensity forecasts. The HCCA technique relies on the forecasts of separate input models for both track and intensity and assigns unequal weighting coefficients based on a set of training forecasts. The HCCA track and intensity forecasts for 2015 were competitive with some of the best-performing operational guidance at the National Hurricane Center (NHC); HCCA was the most skillful model for Atlantic track forecasts through 48 h. Average track input model coefficients for the 2015 forecasts in both the Atlantic and eastern North Pacific basins were largest for the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) deterministic model and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Global Forecast System (GFS) ensemble mean, but the relative magnitudes of the intensity coefficients were more varied. Input model sensitivity experiments conducted using retrospective HCCA forecasts from 2011 to 2015 indicate that the ECMWF deterministic model had the largest positive impact on the skill of the HCCA track forecasts in both basins. The most important input models for HCCA intensity forecasts are the Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) Model and the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System-Tropical Cyclone (COAMPS-TC) model initialized from the GFS. Several updates were incorporated into the HCCA formulation prior to the 2016 season. Verification results indicate HCCA continued to be a skillful model, especially for short-range (12–48 h) track forecasts in both basins.
Early Placement of Ventilation Tubes in Infants with Cleft Lip and Palate: A Systematic Review
Authors: Felton Mark , Lee Jong Wook , Balumuka Darius D. , Arneja Jugpal S. , Chadha Neil K.
Published: November 2017

Objective

Studies have shown that the majority of cleft lip and palate (CLP) children have middle ear fluid present at the time of lip repair (3‐4 months). Despite hearing loss, the majority of children do not undergo ventilation tube treatment if required until the time of palate repair (9‐12 months). We aimed to examine the effectiveness and potential complications of early ventilation tube placement prior to palatoplasty in infants with cleft lip and palate.

Data Sources

Medline (1946‐2015), Embase (1980‐2015), and EBM Reviews (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled).

Review Methods

Data sources were searched for publications that described the results of early ventilation tube placement in children with CLP prior to cleft palate repair. Two independent reviewers appraised the selected studies.

Results

Of 226 studies identified, 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Early ventilation tube insertion in CLP gave similar speech and audiology outcomes to non‐CLP children undergoing ventilation tube insertion and better outcomes than those children with CLP having later ventilation tube insertion at or after the time of palate closure. The main reported side effect was otorrhea, being higher for children with CLP having early ventilation tube insertion (67% vs 33%), with a reduction in otorrhea with increasing age. Larger studies with longer‐term outcome reporting are required to fully address the study objectives.

Conclusion

Published data are limited but appear to support early insertion of ventilation tubes in children with CLP to restore middle ear function and maximize audiologic and speech outcomes.
An overview of reproducible 3D seismic data processing and imaging using Madagascar
Authors: Oren Can , Nowack Robert L.
Published: November 2017

We present an overview of reproducible 3D seismic data processing and imaging using the Madagascar open-source software package. So far, there has been a limited number of studies on the processing of real 3D data sets using open-source software packages. Madagascar with its wide range of individual programs and tools available provides the capability to fully process 3D seismic data sets. The goal is to provide a streamlined illustration of the approach for the implementation of 3D seismic data processing and imaging using the Madagascar open-source software package. A brief introduction is first given to the Madagascar open-source software package and the publicly available 3D Teapot Dome seismic data set. Several processing steps are applied to the data set, including amplitude gaining, ground roll attenuation, muting, deconvolution, static corrections, spike-like random noise elimination, normal moveout (NMO) velocity analysis, NMO correction, stacking, and band-pass filtering. A 3D velocity model in depth is created using Dix conversion and time-to-depth scaling. Three-dimensional poststack depth migration is then performed followed by [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] deconvolution and structure-enhancing filtering of the migrated image to suppress random noise and enhance the useful signal. We show that Madagascar, as a powerful open-source environment, can be used to construct a basic workflow to process and image 3D seismic data in a reproducible manner.
Decay curve analysis for data error quantification in time-domain induced polarization imaging
Authors: Flores Orozco Adrian , Gallistl Jakob , Bücker Matthias , Williams Kenneth H.
Published: November 2017

In recent years, the time-domain induced polarization (TDIP) imaging technique has emerged as a suitable method for the characterization and the monitoring of hydrogeologic and biogeochemical processes. However, one of the major challenges refers to the resolution of the electrical images. Hence, various studies have stressed the importance of data processing, error characterization, and the deployment of adequate inversion schemes. A widely accepted method to assess data error in electrical imaging relies on the analysis of the discrepancy between normal and reciprocal measurements. Nevertheless, the collection of reciprocals doubles the acquisition time and is only viable for a limited subset of commonly used electrode configurations (e.g., dipole-dipole [DD]). To overcome these limitations, we have developed a new methodology to quantify the data error in TDIP imaging, which is entirely based on the analysis of the recorded IP decay curve and does not require recollection of data (e.g., reciprocals). The first two steps of the methodology assess the general characteristics of the decay curves and the spatial consistency of the measurements for the detection and removal of outliers. In the third and fourth steps, we quantify the deviation of the measured decay curves from a smooth model for the estimation of random error of the total chargeability and transfer resistance measurement. The error models and imaging results obtained from this methodology — in the following referred to as “decay curve analysis” — are compared with those obtained following a conventional normal-reciprocal analysis revealing consistent results. We determine the applicability of our methodology with real field data collected at the floodplain scale (approximately 12 ha) using multiple gradient and DD configurations.
Upper Miocene depositional environments of the Kikinda-Mokrin High (Serbia)
Authors: Saša Ivanišević , Dejan Radivojević
Published: November 2017

Exploration for oil and gas in mature areas, such as the Pannonian Basin, can benefit from reexamination of old data using more advanced modern workflows that focus on the temporal and spatial aspects of sediment deposition. Specifically, we apply a new environment of deposition model that interprets the Upper Miocene-Pliocene sediments as being deposited in a rapidly filling basin characterized by quick shelf edge progradation from the northwest toward the southeast. Reconstruction of this shelf edge trajectory reveals the absence of a Lake Pannon level drop during this time; rather, deposition was done during a highstand systems tract. We divided the Serbian postrift sediments into the Hetin, Majdan, Mokrin, Kikinda, and Paludina Formations used by geoscientists in Hungary and Slovakia. Hemipelagic marls of the Hetin Formation serve as the source rocks for the Majdan Formation basin-center turbidite reservoirs. These turbidite reservoirs are in turn sealed by clays and marls of the Mokrin slope formation. In contrast to previous interpretations of this part of the basin, our new sequence stratigraphy interpretation of the depositional environment interpretation significantly reduces the miscorrelation of the target sandstone reservoirs. Application of this sequence stratigraphy model also promises a better understanding of the other elements of the hydrocarbon system, which should lead to better production performance and reservoir management.
India-United States Dialogue on Traditional Medicine: Toward Collaborative Research and Generation of an Evidence Base
Authors: White Jeffrey D. , O’Keefe Barry R. , Sharma Jitendra , Javed Ghazala , Nukala Vid , Ganguly Aniruddha , Khan Ikhlas A. , Kumar Nagi B. , Mukhtar Hasan , Pauli Guido F. , Walker Larry , Sivaram Sudha , Rajaraman Preetha , Trimble Edward L.
Published: November 2017

Therapies originating from traditional medical systems are widely used by patients in both India and the United States. The first India-US Workshop on Traditional Medicine was held in New Delhi, India, on March 3 and 4, 2016, as a collaboration between the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) of the Government of India, the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health, and the Office of Global Affairs, US Department of Health and Human Services. It was attended by Indian and US policymakers, scientists, academics, and medical practitioners from various disciplines. The workshop provided an opportunity to open a dialogue between AYUSH and NCI to identify promising research results and potential topics for Indo-US collaboration. Recommendations that emerged from the workshop underlined the importance of applying rational and scientific approaches for drug development; standardizing traditional medicine products and procedures to ensure reliability and reproducibility; promotion of collaboration between Indian traditional medicine practitioners and researchers and US researchers; greater integration of evidence-based traditional medicine practices with mainstream medical practices in India; and development of training programs between AYUSH and NCI to facilitate crosstraining. Several positive developments took place after the thought-provoking deliberations.
Demand for CT scans increases during transition from paediatric to adult care: an observational study from 2009 to 2015
Authors: Thurley Pete , Crookdake Jonathan , Norwood Mark , Sturrock Nigel , Fogarty Andrew W
Published: November 2017

Objective:

Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure is a clinical priority in children and young adults. We aimed to explore demand for CT scans in a busy general hospital with particular interest in the period of transition from paediatric to adult medical care.

Methods:

We used an observational epidemiological study based in a teaching hospital. Data were obtained on numbers and rates of CT scans from 2009 to 2015. The main outcome was age-stratified rates of receiving a CT scan.

Results:

There were a total of 262,221 CT scans. There was a large step change in the rate of CT scans over the period of transition from paediatric to adult medical care. Individuals aged 10–15 years experienced 6.7 CT scans per 1000 clinical episodes, while those aged 19–24 years experienced 19.8 CT scans per 1000 clinical episodes (p < 0.001). This difference remained significant for all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion:

There is almost a threefold increase in rates of CT scans in the two populations before and after the period of transition from paediatric to adult medical care. While we were unable to adjust for case mix or quantify radiation exposure, paediatricians’ diagnostic strategies to minimize radiation exposure may have clinical relevance for adult physicians, and hence enable reductions in ionizing radiation to patients.

Advances in knowledge:

A large increase in rates of CT scans occurs during adolescence, and considering paediatricians’ strategies to minimize radiation exposure may enable reductions to all patients.
Knockdown of Laminin gamma-3 (Lamc3) impairs motoneuron guidance in the zebrafish embryo
Authors: Eve Alexander M. J. , Smith James C.
Published: November 2017

Background: Previous work in the zebrafish embryo has shown that laminin γ-3 (lamc3) is enriched in endothelial cells marked by expression offli1a, but the role of Lamc3 has been unknown.

Methods: We use antisense morpholino oligonucleotides, and CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis of F0 embryos, to create zebrafish embryos in whichlamc3expression is compromised. Transgenic imaging, immunofluorescence, andin situhybridisation reveal that Lamc3 loss-of-function affects the development of muscle pioneers, endothelial cells, and motoneurons.

Results: Lamc3is enriched in endothelial cells during zebrafish development, but it is also expressed by other tissues. Depletion of Lamc3 by use of antisense morpholino oligonucleotides perturbs formation of the parachordal chain and subsequently the thoracic duct, but Lamc3 is not required for sprouting of the cardinal vein. F0 embryos in whichlamc3expression is perturbed by a CRISPR/Cas9 approach also fail to form a parachordal chain, but we were unable to establish a stablelamc3null line. Lamc3 is dispensable for muscle pioneer specification and for the expression ofnetrin-1ain these cells. Lamc3 knockdown causesnetrin-1aup-regulation in the neural tube and there is increased Netrin-1 protein throughout the trunk of the embryo. Axonal guidance of rostral primary motoneurons is defective in Lamc3 knockdown embryos.

Conclusions: We suggest that knockdown of Lamc3 perturbs migration of rostral primary motoneurons at the level of the horizontal myoseptum, indicating that laminin γ3 plays a role in motoneuron guidance.
UrgoClean Ag: evidence base and mode of action
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: November 2017

UrgoClean Ag is indicated for all exuding wounds with signs of increased bioburden and biofilm. This article describes the evidence base supporting its efficacy
December – illuminating the dark
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: November 2017

Many festivals around the world at this time of year feature light as a major component of the celebration, in contrast to the sombre, long evenings associated with winter.
Latest developments
Authors: Leitch Neil
Published: November 2017

Send your letters, news stories or latest developments to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB email: childcare@markallengroup.com
The independent child
Authors: Martland Rebecca
Published: November 2017

Children become effective thinkers and learners if we provide the right support and environment for them to develop secure attachments, self-esteem and motivation.
Developing nursing leadership and specialist skills: the Burdett scholarship
Authors: Dumaran Phoebe Caligan , Forneza Antonia
Published: November 2017

Evidence-based post-registration education can greatly benefit nursing careers. The cost of continuing professional development can be prohibitive, but grants, bursaries and scholarships are available to support nurses. The Burdett Trust for Nursing established a specialist scholarship for gastrointestinal nurses. Each cohort of two scholars rotates through the specialist departments at St Mark's Hospital, London, a tertiary referral centre for intestinal and colorectal care. They also complete a residential degree-level course in stoma care, as well as specialist master classes and study days. Leadership skills and professional clinical competencies are central to the curriculum. Two previous Burdett scholars give their personal perspective on how the programme has improved their skills, confidence and career trajectories.
Research roundup: November 2017
Authors: Seal Joanne , Willis Angela , Thurtle Val
Published: November 2017

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles that may be of interest to health visitors is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Newly qualified health visitor: The first weeks of practice
Authors: Smith Marie Anne
Published: November 2017

Successful practice relies on building a wide network of relationships, says Marie Anne Smith, as she reflects on her own journey as a newly qualified health visitor.
Common childhood illnesses: Whooping cough
Authors: Tinsley Elizabeth
Published: November 2017

Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that babies are routinely protected against via the national immunisation programme. However, where a baby is too young to have immunisations, or where parents have declined immunisations, whooping cough can be life threatening particularly if contracted under the age of 6 months ( National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2017a ).
Sclerotherapy using Surgiflo and alcohol: A new alternative for the treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts
Authors: Ghanem I. , Nicolas N. , Rizkallah M. , Slaba S.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to review the results of sclerotherapy using Surgiflo in addition to alcohol in primary aneurysmal bone cysts (ABC).

Methods

A total of 16 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed diagnosis of primary ABC were treated by percutaneous Surgiflo and alcohol injection at our institution. Clinical follow-up included the assessment of pain, swelling, limping and functional impairment. Radiological parameters included tumour volume, physis-cyst distance, thickness of cyst cortex, and presence of intracystic septations. Mean follow-up was 35,6 months (24–71 months). Treatment was considered successful when the cyst volume decreased by a minimum of 10%, the bone cortex became thicker, and the distance to physis increased.

Results

Mean age at presentation was 9.5 years (5.16–13.84 years). All ABC's were primary and all patients underwent a single Surgiflo and alcohol session except for two (12.5%) who required a second session. All patients had a good clinical result at final follow-up. Satisfactory cyst healing was achieved in 11 cases according to radiological parameters. Tumour volume decreased from a mean of 122 cm3 (111 to 133) before injection to 86 cm3 (76 to 96) at last follow-up (p < 0.01). Physis-cyst distance increased from a mean of 1 cm (0.1 to 2) to 2.1 cm (0.5 to 4) at last follow-up (p < 0.01). Cortical thickness improved from 1 mm (0.5 to 1.5) to 2 mm (1 to 3.5) at last follow-up (p < 0.01). There were no treatment related complications. Surgery was performed in one patient having a C3 vertebra ABC after developing quadriparesis due to tumour progression.

Conclusion

Sclerotherapy using Surgiflo and alcohol may be used as an efficient, safe and minimally invasive alternative for the treatment of primary ABCs.
Self-history project in visual arts education
Authors: Coşkun Necla
Published: November 2017

The present study aimed to determine how students realized the process of creating a ‘self-history project’ in the frame of the artworks created by the participant students, who, throughout the project, made use of their own life experiences, researched cultural values, enquired into historical events and utilized interdisciplinary relations. Artography, an art-based research method, was used for the purposes of the study during the years 2012–13. The research data are comprised of the artistic works of four students at the painting studio, semi-structured interviews that the author conducted as a researcher/teacher and the author’s observations. The study’s findings indicate that the students were positively impressed by the student-centred self-history approach.
Quercetin improves developmental competence of mouse oocytes by reducing oxidative stress during in vitro maturation
Authors: Banihosseini Seyede Zahra , Novin Marefat Ghaffari , Nazarian Hamid , Piryaei Abbas , Parvardeh Siavash , Eini Fatemeh
Published: November 2017

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with strong antioxidant activity. In the present study, we evaluate the influence of different concentrations of quercetin (QT) on intracytoplasmic oxidative stress and glutathione (GSH) concentration, during in vitro maturation (IVM) and fertilization in mouse oocytes. IVM was carried out in the presence of control (QT0), 5 (QT5), 10 (QT10), and 20 (QT20) μg/mL of QT. Nuclear maturation, intracellular GSH and ROS content were evaluated following the IVM. In these oocytes, we subsequently evaluated the effect of QT supplementation on embryo development, including 2-cell, 8-cell, and blastocyst rate. The results of the present study showed that the supplementation of 10 μg/mL QT in maturation medium increased the number of MII oocytes. In addition, fertilization and blastocyst rate in QT10 treatment group were significantly higher in comparison to the other groups, and elevated the amount of intracellular GSH content compared to other QT concentrations and control groups. The intracellular ROS level was the lowest among oocytes matured in Q5 and Q10 treatment groups. This result suggested that quercetin dose-dependently improves nuclear maturation and embryo development, via reducing intracytoplasmic oxidative stress in mature oocyte.
Effect of ostrich egg lipoproteins and hen egg yolk on the quality of dog sperm during liquid storage at 5°C
Authors: Dziekońska Anna , Behrendt Dorota , Strzeżek Rafał , Kordan Władysław
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was a comparative analysis of the impact of the addition of lipoproteins from ostrich egg yolk (LPFo) and hen egg yolk (HEY) to a Tris-citric acid-fructose (TCF) extender on the quality of dog sperm preserved at 5°C for 7 days. The sperm-rich fraction of the ejaculate was manually collected and extended using the following extenders: control (TCF), TCF+ 5% addition of LPFo (TCF-LPFo) and TCF+ 20% of addition HEY (TCF-HEY). The analysis of quality included: sperm motility parameters (TMOT, PMOT, VAP, VSL, VCL, ALH, BCF, STR, LIN), normal apical ridge acrosome (NAR), plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and ATP content. The addition of LPFo and HEY to the TCF extender had a beneficial effect on all quality parameters of the stored sperm compared with the TCF extender. However, the analysis of sperm motility parameters revealed differences (P≤0.05) between TCF-LPFo and TCF-HEY extenders as affected by storage day. Semen extended in TCF-LPFo was characterized by lower values of TMOT and VAP on Day 5 and by lower values of TMOT and VCL on Day 7, compared to that extended in TCF-HEY. The analysis of PMOT, VSL, ALH, BCF, STR, LIN, PMI, MMP and ATP content showed no differences (P≥0.05) between TCF-LPFo and TCF-HEY extenders. The results suggest that TCF extender supplementation with LPFo or HEY improves the quality of dog sperm stored at 5°C. Both LPFo and HEY protect motility, membrane integrity and can contribute to the improvement of the energy status of stored dog sperm. LPFo can be alternatively used instead of HEY for dog semen preservation in the liquid state.
An Effect of Washing on Durability of Hydrophobic Finishes of Membrane Laminates
Authors: Kowalski Mateusz , Salerno-Kochan Renata
Published: November 2017

The aim of the study is to show how the washing process, while considering the type of washing agent and number of wash cycles, determines the durability of hydrophobic finishes of laminated fabrics. The samples of material were subject to multiple wash cycles in clear water and with the use of two types of washing agents, namely, an ordinary washing powder and a detergent recommended by manufacturers of functional clothing. The washed materials were subject to spray test and its waterproofing and degree of surface wetting were evaluated. The tests have shown that waterproofing of membrane laminates with DWR (durable water repellent) coating become deteriorated during washing treatment and the use of special detergent does not guaranty the maintenance of better coating properties than an ordinary washing agent.
Dolichocephala ocellata (Costa, 1854) (Diptera, Empididae) new to Slovakia
Authors: van der Weele Ruud , Kappert Jürgen , Oboňa Jozef
Published: November 2017

The first record of Dolichocephala ocellata (Costa, 1854) (Diptera, Empididae) for the territory of Slovakia and Central Europe is presented. This increases the number of known empidid species for Slovakia to 286.
Contribution to the bryoflora of the Ciężkowickie Foothills (Western Carpathians, Poland)
Authors: Stebel Adam , Vončina Grzegorz
Published: November 2017

The paper provides information about new localities of 118 species, including 2 hornworts, 22 liverworts and 94 mosses collected at the Ciężkowickie Foothills. The most interesting are bryophytes protected and threatened in Poland, for example Fossombronia wondraczekii, Nowellia curvifolia, Sphagnum compactum, Trichocolea tomentella and Weissia squarrosa.
Der Wald. Über Bild und Sinn in der Divina Commedia
Authors: Wehle Winfried
Published: November 2017

Riassunto

Come raccontare in modo visibile e convincente di qualcosa che nessuno ha mai visto? Dante ha risposto a questa sfida in una maniera che continua a esercitare la sua influenza fino a oggi. Ha fatto della Divina Commedia un’opera ›bilingue‹. Da una parte l’autore spiega tutto il sapere possibile su Dio e sul mondo, dall’altra lo illustra con un’iconografia che parla direttamente, e con insistenza, all’immaginazione e ai sensi. Dalla ›selva oscura‹, e dalla natura in generale, fa nascere un immaginario in cui il giardino dell’Eden sfocia nell’albero celeste del Paradiso che fiorisce nel giardino di rose dell’Empireo.
Gemalte Landschaften im Zeitalter Dantes und Petrarcas
Authors: Aurenhammer Hans
Published: November 2017

Riassunto

Il saggio esamina le analogie e le differenze che sussistono fra la rappresentazione del paesaggio nei pittori italiani della prima metà del Trecento e la letteratura dell’epoca. Giotto, il grande innovatore, continua a essere ligio alla tradizione medievale del paesaggio roccioso, ma le colline nude dei suoi sfondi si riferiscono così strettamente al racconto rappresentato da poter parlare di un paesaggio ›simpatetico‹. I primi illustratori della Commedia non riescono a tenere dietro alle descrizioni poetiche dei regni dell’aldilà. Fenomeni ottici descritti in maniera precisa da Dante (riflessi, sbattimento, cielo atmosferico) superavano le possibilità che la pittura aveva all’epoca. Entro questi limiti, però, i miniatori propongono delle soluzioni originali, come si mostra sull’esempio del Codice Egerton 943 della British Library (intorno al 1335/40). La descrizione dell’ascesa al monte Ventoux di Petrarca e Il Dittamondo di Fazio degli Uberti aprono sul paesaggio uno sguardo che viene dall’alto e spazia lontano, simile a quello dell’affresco sugli effetti del ›Buon Governo‹ di Ambrogio Lorenzetti nel Palazzo Pubblico di Siena (1338/39). L’affresco è caratterizzato da una combinazione di concretezza empirica e di ordine allegorico paragonabile ai paesaggi di Dante e di Petrarca.
The effect of antimicrobials on verocytotoxin bacteriophage transduction under bovine rumen fluid and broth conditions
Authors: Nyambe S. , Burgess C. , Whyte P. , Bolton D.
Published: November 2017

The verocytotoxin genes in verocytotoxigenicEscherichia coli(VTEC) are carried by bacteriophages, incorporated into the bacterial genome (prophage). Antibiotics may promote phage replication and release to infect other cells (transduction), thus leading to the emergence of new VTEC strains. This study investigated transduction of a verocytotoxin2-encoding bacteriophage (3538(vtx2::cat)) under laboratory conditions, including the effect of antibiotic treatments. Luria-Bertani Miller broth and rumen fluid (raw and sterilised by irradiation) were inoculated with the donor (C600φ3538(Δvtx2::cat)) and recipient (E. coli C600::kanamycinR) strains (4 log10cfu/mL) and incubated at 38°C. Antibiotic treatments (minimal inhibitory and sub-inhibitory concentrations of ampicillin, cefquinome, oxytetracycline and sodium sulfamethazine) were applied after 3 h. Samples were tested for donor, recipient, cell-free phage and transductants at times t = 0, 3, 4, 6, 27 (24 h post-antibiotic treatment) and 51 h. Free phage was detected in the untreated broth and rumen samples, as were the transductants confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. The antibiotic treatments did not significantly (P > 0.01) increase the concentrations of free phage or transductants detected. It was therefore concluded that, under laboratory conditions, the antibiotics tested did not induce bacteriophage lysis, release and infection of new bacterial cells beyond that constitutively found in the phage population.
Portfolio immunization under cone restrictions
Authors: Gajek Lesław , Krajewska Elżbieta
Published: November 2017

Interest rate risk for portfolios with random cash flows
is mitigated via minimizing its

ℒ
2

{\mathcal{L}^{2}}

-measure.
A link between monotonicity of linear operators and immunization under cone restrictions is examined.
The results are based on the Hilbert space methods
applied to incomplete markets.
Swimming, but not vitamin E, ameliorates prothrombotic state and hypofibrinolysis in a rat model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sakr Hussein F. , Abbas Amr M. , Haidara Mohamed A.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with a systemic procoagulant hypofibrinolysis state that is considered as a risk factor for microangiopathy and peripheral vascular diseases. Swimming exercise ameliorates the metabolic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that reduces the risk of endothelial dysfunction in metabolic syndrome. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of combined swimming exercise with vitamin E on coagulation as well as blood fibrinolysis markers in rats with NAFLD.

Methods:

Eighty male rats were divided into control, control+vitamin E, control+exercise, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD+vitamin E, HFD+exercise, and HFD+vitamin E+exercise groups. Glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1), endothelin-1, von Willebrand factor (vWF), fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), fibrin degradation products (FDP), platelet count and aggregation, bleeding and clotting times, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and prothrombin time (PT) were determined.

Results:

HFD increased lipid profile, insulin, glucose, HOMA-IR, liver enzymes, adhesion molecules, endothelin-1, vWF, platelet aggregation, fibrinogen, FDP, and PAI-1, and decreased clotting and bleeding times and HDL. Although exercise reduced lipid profile, glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, vWF, platelet aggregation, fibrinogen, FDP, and PAI-1 and increased PT, aPTT, bleeding and clotting times, and HDL, vitamin E had no effect.

Conclusions:

Exercise, but not vitamin E, ameliorated the HFD-induced prothrombotic state and enhanced fibrinolytic activity.
From Literary Culture to Post-Communist Media: Romanian Conspiracism
Authors: Colăcel Onoriu , Pintilescu Corneliu
Published: November 2017

Conspiracy thinking has a long history in Romanian literary culture. In the early 21st century, what counts as a conspiracy theory in the mainstream of Romanian life is nevertheless elusive enough to keep the public engaged more than ever before. The growing number of attempts to address the gap in knowledge with regard to local conspiracy theories is proof that concern with their possibly harmful consequences is on the rise as well. For most of the conspiracy-minded, the topics of the day are specific threats posed to post-communist Romania and its people. In the main, conspiratorial beliefs fall into three main fields. Namely, they come across as 1) conspiracy theories against the body politic of the nation, 2) health-related conspiracy theories and 3) conspiracy theories on use and conservation of natural resources. While the first two overlap and build on the tradition of home-grown populism, the third is mostly a borrowing from Western media sources. However, the most influential instances of Romanian conspiracism posit that the well-being of the nation’s body politic and that of individuals’ own bodies are one and the same.
Conspiring Against the Gullible: Notes on Gulliver’s Travels as Universal Satire in the Guise of Paranoid Discourse
Authors: Popescu Dan Nicolae
Published: November 2017

Readers and critics alike have bickered over the verisimilitude of Gulliver’s Travels since it was first published in 1726. No critical consensus has ever been reached even on some very fundamental interpreting issues. While several particulars of Swift’s satire appear to have been decoded and agreed upon, such as the parody of travel literature and the attack on Walpole’s corrupt administration, some others are still debated over, even after more than a century of modern criticism, such as the overall object of the universally reverberating satire and what it teaches us about Swift’s own values and worldview. Fully aware of the Gulliverian critical deadlock the world is still in, we suggest in the present article that the narratorial duet Swift-Gulliver ‘conspires’ against readers, be they innocent (gullible) or competent (lucid): by construing the latter as a microcosm who explores the world in order to gain identity, the former stages an elaborate hoax in which a potentially paranoid narrative is cunningly brought within the boundaries of acceptable, coherent discourse, with a view to achieving his far-reaching satire.
Crystal structure of 5-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3,7,8-trimethoxy-4H-chromen-4-one, C19H18O8
Authors: Brito Iván , Bórquez Jorge , Simirgiotis Mario , Cárdenas Alejandro
Published: November 2017

C19H18O8, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 12.689(2) Å, b = 20.321(4) Å, c = 7.0820(13) Å, β = 105.368(13)°, V = 1760.8(6) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt = 0.0662, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1788, T = 295 K.
Crystal structure of poly{[μ2-1,1′-(sulfonylbis(4,1-phenylene))bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazole)-κ2
N:N′][μ2-4,4′-oxydibenzoato-κ2
O:O′]cobalt(II)} hemihydrate, C34H27N4O7.5SCo
Authors: Li Wei , Sun Xuan , Suo Jian , Xing Yanpeng , Wang Daguang
Published: November 2017

C34H27N4O7.5SCo, monoclinic, Cc (no. 9), a = 23.7684(16) Å, b = 13.5683(10) Å, c = 10.0223(7) Å, β = 94.405(2)° V = 3222.6(4) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0427, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0815, T = 293(2) K.
The crystal structure of (E)-N-benzyl-N′-benzylidene-4-methylbenzenesulfonohydrazide, C21H20N2O2S
Authors: Guan Xiao-Yu , Zhang Liang-Dong , Liu Zhang-Qin , Guo Xin , Ma Xuebing
Published: November 2017

C21H20N2O2S, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 19.436(3) Å, b = 6.1396(6) Å, c = 16.362(3) Å, β = 108.100(16)°, V = 1855.8(5) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0502, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1224, T = 100 K.
Terminology of separation methods (IUPAC Recommendations 2017)
Authors: Maryutina Tatiana A. , Savonina Elena Yu. , Fedotov Petr S. , Smith Roger M. , Siren Heli , Hibbert D. Brynn
Published: November 2017

Recommendations are given concerning the terminology of methods of separation in analytical chemistry, including chromatography, electromigration techniques, and field-flow fractionation and related techniques.
Comparasion of NDBI and NDVI as Indicators of Surface Urban Heat Island Effect in Landsat 8 Imagery: A Case Study of Iasi
Authors: Macarof Paul , Statescu Florian
Published: November 2017

This study compares the normalized difference built-up index (NDBI) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) as indicators of surface urban heat island effects in Landsat-8 OLI imagery by investigating the relationships between the land surface temperature (LST), NDBI and NDVI. The urban heat island (UHI) represents the phenomenon of higher atmospheric and surface temperatures occurring in urban area or metropolitan area than in the surrounding rural areas due to urbanization. With the development of remote sensing technology, it has become an important approach to urban heat island research. Landsat data were used to estimate the LST, NDBI and NDVI from four seasons for Iasi municipality area. This paper indicates than there is a strong linear relationship between LST and NDBI, whereas the relationship between LST and NDVI varies by season. This paper suggests, NDBI is an accurate indicator of surface UHI effects and can be used as a complementary metric to the traditionally applied NDVI.
The Effect of Tigecycline on the Binding of Fluoroquinolones to Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Jelic Ratomir M. , Stojanovic Stefan D. , Beric Jelena D. , Odovic Jadranka
Published: November 2017

The co-administration of several drugs in multidrug therapy may alter the binding of each drug to human serum albumin (HSA) and, thus, their pharmacology effect. Therefore, in this study, the interaction mechanism between HSA and two fluoroquinolones (FQs), sparfloxacin (SPF) and levofloxacin (LVF), was investigated using fluorescence and absorption methods in the absence and presence of the competing drugtigecycline (TGC). The the UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy results showed that the fluorescence quenching of HSA was a result of the formation of the HSA-SPF and HSA-LVF complexes. The fluorescence quenching of HSA-TGC revealed that tigecycline can regulate the binding sites, binding mode and binding affinity of fluoroquinolones. The binding constants (KA) and binding sites (n) of the interaction systems were calculated. The results confirmed that the KAvalues of the HSA-FQ system decreased in the presence of TGC, indicating that TGC can affect the binding ability of FQ for HSA. This interaction may increase the free plasma concentration of unbound FQ and enhance their pharmacology effect.