bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurses’ views on the impact of mass media on the public perception of nursing and nurse–service user interactions
Authors: Hoyle Louise P , Kyle Richard G , Mahoney Catherine
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to examine nurses’ views on the impact that mass media has on service users and how this affects nurse/service user interactions. Internationally, the mass media is an important source of health information for the public. Media framing therefore exerts considerable influence on the public’s perceptions of healthcare professionals and services. However, it is not known how the reporting of health stories by the media impacts the work of front-line nursing staff. This is a qualitative interpretivist study using a single case study design, and includes semi-structured interviews with qualified nursing staff ( n = 31) within a large hospital in the United Kingdom. There are three key themes: ‘scaremongering health stories’, ‘negative portrayal of the nursing profession’ and ‘informed service users’. Nurses perceived media framing of health and healthcare services as predominantly negative. Nurses need greater awareness of how service users receive and respond to health information and how health stories are reported. Closer engagement between health journalists and nurses through ‘journalist-in-residence’ programmes could enable nurses and journalists to gain greater appreciation of their respective sets of knowledge to support shared and informed decision-making between service users and professionals.
The prospects of CRISPR-based genome engineering in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Shin Jun Wan , Lee Jong-Min
Published: November 2017

Over the past few decades, as gene discovery methods and sequencing technologies have evolved, many genetic variations that significantly increase the risk of or cause neurodegenerative diseases have been identified. However, knowledge of those pathogenic mutations and subsequent mechanism-focused studies has rarely yielded effective treatments, warranting alternative strategies for refining rational therapeutic targets. Nevertheless, with the evolution of gene targeting methods, it has been increasingly recognized that the disease-causing gene itself is the best therapeutic target even when we do not have a full understanding of its biological functions. Considering this, CRISPR/Cas gene editing technology offers the promise of permanently silencing or correcting the disease-causing mutations, potentially overcoming key limitations of RNA-targeting approaches. The versatile CRISPR/Cas-based strategies have the potential to become treatment options for challenging disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we summarize recent reports of preclinical applications of CRISPR/Cas in models of neurodegenerative disorders to provide perspectives on therapeutic gene editing for diseases of the nervous system.
Salvage of mangled upper extremity using the Masquelet technique in a child: A case report
Authors: Alassaf Nabil , Alhoukail Amro , Alsahli Abdullah , Althubaiti Ghazi
Published: November 2017

Aim:

To report our experience with the Masquelet concept in a pediatric upper extremity following an open injury to the elbow.

Methods:

A case report and literature review.

Results:

An 11-year-old boy was transferred to our institution after a motor vehicle collision. There was a primary loss of the ulnohumeral articulation and the surrounding soft tissues as well as the ulnar nerve. Reconstruction used the Masquelet-induced membrane technique and a soft tissue flap. At the 30-month follow-up, the extremity was pain free and functional.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the value of the Masquelet technique in pediatric extremity injuries, where there is a loss of a major articular segment, as well as significant soft tissue compromise.
An Integrative Behavioral Health Care Model Using Automated SBIRT and Care Coordination in Community Health Care
Authors: Dwinnells Ronald , Misik Lauren
Published: November 2017

Efficient and effective integration of behavioral health programs in a community health care practice emphasizes patient-centered medical home principles to improve quality of care. A prospective, 3-period, interrupted time series study was used to explore which of 3 different integrative behavioral health care screening and management processes were the most efficient and effective in prompting behavioral health screening, identification, interventions, and referrals in a community health practice. A total of 99.5% ( P < .001) of medical patients completed behavioral health screenings; brief intervention rates nearly doubled to 83% ( P < .001) and 100% ( P < .001) of identified at-risk patients had referrals made using a combination of electronic tablets, electronic medical record, and behavioral health care coordination.
A simple suture-guiding device for minimally invasive Achilles tendon repair
Authors: Obut Sinan , Gultekin Alper , Unal Meric , Serarslan Ulaş , Tuhanioğlu Ümit
Published: November 2017

Background:

Our hypothesis is to utilize a simple suture-guiding device for minimally invasive repair of Achilles tendon without any extra cost with a minimal risk of rerupture. The purpose of this study is to investigate the results of our minimally invasive technique for Achilles tendon repair using a simple ovarian clamp for suture guiding.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were treated with minimally invasive repair by an expert orthopaedic surgeon. Instead of an Achillon device, an ovarian clamp was directed to the proximal and distal parts of the Achilles tendon. All data relating to daily activities, walking, climbing stairs, sports activity, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Thermannscores were recorded. Sural nerve was evaluated with physical examination for paraesthesia, hyperaesthesia, lateralis cruris and foot pain in all patient controls.

Results:

The average AOFAS score was 97.06 (76–100). All patients had intact Achilles tendon at last control. No rerupture was observed. Average time taken to return to work was 30.8 days (28–60 days). After 6 months, all patients returned to their previous sports activities.

Conclusion:

For Achilles tendon ruptures, minimally invasive repair techniques have shown successful results with low complication rates. Besides their success, some suture-guiding devices bring extra costs for patients or health insurance. Minimally invasive techniques may be performed with devices without any extra cost. Our new suture-guiding device provides knot placement under paratenon like Achillon device to improve outcomes, provides early return to work and minimizes the complications. Finally, our suture-guiding device has no extra cost.
Recurrent thrombosis in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies and arterial thrombosis on antithrombotic therapy
Authors: Jackson William G. , Oromendia Clara , Unlu Ozan , Erkan Doruk , DeSancho Maria T.
Published: November 2017

Key Points

There is currently no clear consensus on the best approach to the management of patients with APS and arterial thrombosis. Combined antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy may decrease risk of thrombosis recurrence in patients with APS and arterial thrombosis.
Buccal epithelial cells display somatic, bone marrow–derived CALR mutation
Authors: Gilles Scott R. , Baughn Linda B. , Schomaker Matthew L. , Courville Elizabeth L. , Nelson Andrew C. , Sachs Zohar
Published: November 2017

Key Points

Buccal epithelial cells harbor an MPN-associated CALR mutation in a patient with CALR-mutant essential thrombocytosis, Ph+ CML, and no germ line CALR mutation.
Current and new challenges in occupational lung diseases
Authors: De Matteis Sara , Heederik Dick , Burdorf Alex , Colosio Claudio , Cullinan Paul , Henneberger Paul K. , Olsson Ann , Raynal Anne , Rooijackers Jos , Santonen Tiina , Sastre Joaquin , Schlünssen Vivi , van Tongeren Martie , Sigsgaard Torben
Published: November 2017

Occupational lung diseases are an important public health issue and are avoidable through preventive interventions in the workplace. Up-to-date knowledge about changes in exposure to occupational hazards as a result of technological and industrial developments is essential to the design and implementation of efficient and effective workplace preventive measures. New occupational agents with unknown respiratory health effects are constantly introduced to the market and require periodic health surveillance among exposed workers to detect early signs of adverse respiratory effects. In addition, the ageing workforce, many of whom have pre-existing respiratory conditions, poses new challenges in terms of the diagnosis and management of occupational lung diseases. Primary preventive interventions aimed to reduce exposure levels in the workplace remain pivotal for elimination of the occupational lung disease burden. To achieve this goal there is still a clear need for setting standard occupational exposure limits based on transparent evidence-based methodology, in particular for carcinogens and sensitising agents that expose large working populations to risk. The present overview, focused on the occupational lung disease burden in Europe, proposes directions for all parties involved in the prevention of occupational lung disease, from researchers and occupational and respiratory health professionals to workers and employers.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: TGF-β2 initiates autophagy via Smad and non-Smad pathway to promote glioma cells’ invasion
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhang Xin , Xu Ran , Huang Bin , Chen An-Jing , Li Chao , Wang Jian , Li Xin-Gang
Published: November 2017

Background

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is characterized by lethal aggressiveness and patients with GBM are in urgent need for new therapeutic avenues to improve quality of life. Current studies on tumor invasion focused on roles of cytokines in tumor microenvironment and numerous evidence suggests that TGF-β2 is abundant in glioma microenvironment and vital for glioma invasion. Autopagy is also emerging as a critical factor in aggressive behaviors of cancer cells; however, the relationship between TGF-β2 and autophagy in glioma has been poorly understood.

Methods

U251, T98 and U87 GBM cell lines as well as GBM cells from a primary human specimen were used in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the effect of TGF-β2 on autophagy. Western blot, qPCR, immunofluorescence and transmission-electron microscope were used to detect target molecular expression. Lentivirus and siRNA vehicle were introduced to establish cell lines, as well as mitotracker and seahorse experiment to study the metabolic process in glioma. Preclinical therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in orthotopic xenograft mouse models.

Results

Here we demonstrated that TGF-β2 activated autophagy in human glioma cell lines and knockdown of Smad2 or inhibition of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, attenuated TGF-β2-induced autophagy. TGF-β2-induced autophagy is important for glioma invasion due to the alteration of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metabolism conversion, particularly influencing mitochondria trafficking and membrane potential (△Ψm). Autopaghy also initiated a feedback on TGF-β2 in glioma by keeping its autocrine loop and affecting Smad2/3/7 expression. A xenograft model provided additional confirmation on combination of TGF-β inhibitor (Galunisertib) and autophagy inhibitor (CQ) to better “turn off” tumor growth.

Conclusion

Our findings elucidated a potential mechanism of autophagy-associated glioma invasion that TGF-β2 could initiate autophagy via Smad and non-Smad pathway to promote glioma cells’ invasion.
Comparative analysis of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and T for their association with coronary computed tomography-assessed calcium scoring represented by the Agatston score
Authors: Rusnak Jonas , Behnes Michael , Henzler Thomas , Reckord Nadine , Vogler Nils , Meyer Mathias , Hoffmann Ursula , Natale Michele , Hoffmann Julia , Hamed Sonja , Weidner Kathrin , Lang Siegfried , Mukherji Agnibh , Haubenreisser Holger , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Borggrefe Martin , Bertsch Thomas , Akin Ibrahim
Published: November 2017

Background

This study evaluates the association between high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) and T (hs-cTnT) and coronary calcium concentration (CAC) detected by coronary computed tomography (CCT) and evaluated with the Agatston score in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Patients undergoing CCT during routine clinical care were enrolled prospectively. CCT was indicated for patients with a low to intermediate pretest probability for CAD. Within 24 h of CCT examination, peripheral blood samples were taken to measure cardiac biomarkers hs-cTnI and hs-cTnT.

Results

A total of 76 patients were enrolled including 38% without detectable CAC, 36% with an Agatston score from 1 to 100, 17% from 101 to 400, and 9% with values ≥ 400. hs-cTnI was increasing alongside Agatston score and was able to differentiate between different groups of Agatston scores. Both hs-cTn discriminated values greater than 100 (hs-cTnI, AUC = 0.663; p = 0.032; hs-cTnT, AUC = 0.650; p = 0.048). In univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI were significantly associated with increased Agatston scores. Patients with hs-cTnT ≥ 0.02 µg/l and hs-cTnI ≥ 5.5 ng/l were more likely to reveal values ≥ 400 (hs-cTnT; OR = 13.4; 95% CI 1.545–116.233; p = 0.019; hs-cTnI; OR = 8.8; 95% CI 1.183–65.475; p = 0.034).

Conclusion

The present study shows that the Agatston score was significantly correlated with hs cardiac troponins, both in univariable and multivariable linear regression models. Hs-cTnI is able to discriminate between different Agatston values. The present results might reveal potential cut-off values for hs cardiac troponins regarding different Agatston values.

Trial registration Cardiovascular Imaging and Biomarker Analyses (CIBER), NCT03074253 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03074253
Decreasing Histology Turnaround Time Through Stepwise Innovation and Capacity Building in Rwanda
Authors: Muvugabigwi Gaspard , Nshimiyimana Irenee , Greenberg Lauren , Hakizimana Emmanuel , Ruhangaza Deo , Benewe Origene , Bhai Kiran , Pepoon James R. , Fehr Alexandra E. , Park Paul H. , Butonzi John , Shyirambere Cyprien , Manirakiza Alexis , Rusangwa Christian , Milner Danny , Mpunga Tharcisse , Shulman Lawrence N.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Minimal turnaround time for pathology results is crucial for highest-quality patient care in all settings, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where rural populations may have limited access to health care.

Methods

We retrospectively determined the turnaround times (TATs) for anatomic pathology specimens, comparing three different modes of operation that occurred throughout the development and implementation of our pathology laboratory at the Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence in Rwanda. Before opening this laboratory, TAT was measured in months because of inconsistent laboratory operations and a paucity of in-country pathologists.

Results

We analyzed 2,514 individual patient samples across the three modes of study. Diagnostic mode 1 (samples sent out of the country for analysis) had the highest median TAT, with an overall time of 30 days (interquartile range [IQR], 22 to 43 days). For diagnostic mode 2 (static image telepathology), the median TAT was 14 days (IQR, 7 to 27 days), and for diagnostic mode 3 (onsite expert diagnosis), it was 5 days (IQR, 2 to 9 days).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that telepathology is a significant improvement over external expert review and can greatly assist sites in improving their TATs until pathologists are on site.
HIV Status and Associated Clinical Characteristics Among Adult Patients With Cancer at the Uganda Cancer Institute
Authors: Bender Ignacio Rachel , Ghadrshenas Matine , Low Daniel , Orem Jackson , Casper Corey , Phipps Warren
Published: November 2017

Purpose

HIV increases cancer incidence and mortality. In Uganda, the HIV epidemic has led to an elevated incidence of AIDS-defining cancers (ADCs) and non–AIDS-defining cancers (NADCs). Limited information exists about how frequently HIV infection complicates the presentation and manifestations of cancer in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We abstracted medical records from patients with cancer who were age 18 years or older who registered at the Uganda Cancer Institute from June through September 2015 to determine the burden of HIV. We used χ2 tests and generalized linear models to evaluate factors associated with HIV positivity. A sensitivity analysis estimated HIV prevalence in those untested.

Results

Among 1,137 patients with cancer, 23% were HIV infected, 48% were HIV negative, and 29% had no recorded HIV status. Of those with recorded HIV status, 32% were HIV positive. Forty-two percent (149 of 361 patients) with ADCs were documented as HIV infected (51% of those with documented status) compared with 14% (108 of 776 patients) of those with NADCs (21% of those with documented status). In multivariable analysis, HIV infection was associated with ADC diagnosis (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] compared with NADC, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.5 to 3.0), younger age (aPR, 0.9 per decade increase; 95% CI, 0.8 to 1.0), and worse performance status scores (aPR, 1.2 per point ECOG increase; 95% CI, 1.0 to 1.5). When sensitivity analysis accounted for undocumented HIV status, the expected prevalence of HIV infection was 29% (range, 23% to 32%), and almost one fourth of expected HIV cases were undiagnosed or unrecorded.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HIV infection among Ugandan patients with cancer is substantially higher than in the general population. Patients with cancer and HIV tend to be younger and have poorer performance status. Greater awareness of the dual burden of cancer and HIV in Uganda and universal testing of patients with cancer may improve outcomes of HIV-associated malignancies.
Knowledge Summaries for Comprehensive Breast Cancer Control
Authors: Zujewski Jo Anne , Dvaladze Allison L. , Ilbawi Andre , Anderson Benjamin O. , Luciani Silvana , Stevens Lisa , Torode Julie
Published: November 2017

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, affecting > 1.6 million women each year, projected to increase to 2.2 million cases annually by 2025. A disproportionate number of the > 500,000 women who die as a result of breast cancer each year reside in low-resource settings. Breast cancer control is an important component of cancer control planning and women’s health programs, and tools are needed across the care continuum to reduce the cancer burden, especially in low-resource settings. Cancer control planning is complex and multifaceted. Evidence shows that outcomes are improved when prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and palliation are integrated and synchronously developed within a country/region’s health plan. The Knowledge Summaries for Comprehensive Breast Cancer Control are the product of a multiyear collaboration led by the Union for International Cancer Control, Breast Health Global Initiative, Pan American Health Organization, and Center for Global Health of the US National Cancer Institute. Fourteen knowledge summaries distilled from evidence-based, resource-stratified guidelines, and aligned with WHO guidance on breast cancer control, build a framework for resource prioritization pathways and delivery systems for breast cancer control at four levels of available resources: basic, limited, enhanced, and maximal. Each summary contains relevant content to inform breast cancer policy, clinical care, and advocacy, aiding in the development and implementation of policies and programs. These tools provide a common platform for stakeholders, including policymakers, administrators, clinicians, and advocates to engage in decision making appropriate to their local setting. The goal is to facilitate evidence-based policy actions and urgently advance implementation of an integrated approach to reduce breast cancer mortality and improve quality of life.
RNAtor: an Android-based application for biologists to plan RNA sequencing experiments
Authors: Kane Shruti , Garg Himanshu , Krishnan Neeraja M. , Singh Aditya , Panda Binay
Published: November 2017

RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is a powerful technology that allows one to assess the RNA levels in a sample. Analysis of these levels can help in identifying novel transcripts (coding, non-coding and splice variants), understanding transcript structures, and estimating gene/allele expression. Biologists face specific challenges while designing RNA-seq experiments. The nature of these challenges lies in determining the total number of sequenced reads and technical replicates required for detecting marginally differentially expressed transcripts. Despite previous attempts to address these challenges, easily-accessible and biologist-friendly mobile applications do not exist. Thus, we developed RNAtor, a mobile application for Android platforms, to aid biologists in correctly designing their RNA-seq experiments. The recommendations from RNAtor are based on simulations and real data.
Study protocol: A multi-centre, double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel group, phase II trial (RIDD) to determine the efficacy of intra-nodular injection of anti-TNF to control disease progression in early Dupuytren’s disease, with an embedded dose response study.
Authors: Nanchahal Jagdeep , Ball Catherine , Swettenham Jennifer , Dutton Susan , Barber Vicki , Black Joanna , Copsey Bethan , Dritsaki Melina , Taylor Peter , Gray Alastair , Feldmann Marc , Lamb Sarah
Published: November 2017

Dupuytren’s disease is a common fibrotic condition of the hand affecting 4% of the population and causes the fingers to curl irreversibly into the palm. It has a strong familial tendency, there is no approved treatment for early stage disease, and patients with established digital contractures are most commonly treated by surgery. This is associated with prolonged recovery, and less invasive techniques have high recurrence rates. The myofibroblasts, the cells responsible for the excessive matrix deposition and contraction, are aggregated in nodules. Using excised diseased and control human tissue, we found that immune cells interspersed amongst the myofibroblasts secrete cytokines. Of these, only tumour necrosis factor (TNF) promoted the development of myofibroblasts. The clinically approved anti-TNF agents led to inhibition of the myofibroblast phenotypein vitro. This clinical trial is designed to assess the efficacy of the anti-TNF agent adalimumab on participants with early disease. The first part is a dose-ranging study where nodules of participants already scheduled for surgery will be injected with either placebo (saline) or varying doses of adalimumab. The excised tissue will then be analysed for markers of myofibroblast activity. The second part of the study will recruit participants with early stage disease. They will be randomised 1: 1 to receive either adalimumab or placebo at 3 month intervals over 1 year and will then be followed for a further 6 months. Outcome measures will include nodule hardness, size and disease progression. The trial will also determine the cost-effectiveness of adalimumb treatment for this group of participants.
Vagueness and Formal Fuzzy Logic: Some Criticisms
Authors: Gerla Giangiacomo
Published: November 2017

In the common man reasoning the presence of vague predicates is pervasive and under the name “fuzzy logic in narrow sense” or “formal fuzzy logic” there are a series of attempts to formalize such a kind of phenomenon. This paper is devoted to discussing the limits of these attempts both from a technical point of view and with respect the original and principal task: to define a mathematical model of the vagueness. For example, one argues that, since vagueness is necessarily connected with the intuition of the continuum, we have to look at the order-based topology of the interval [0,1] and not at the discrete topology of the set {0,1}. In accordance, in switching from classical logic to a logic for the vague predicates, we cannot avoid the use of the basic notions of real analysis as, for example, the ones of “approximation“, “convergence“, “continuity“. In accordance, instead of defining the compactness of the logical consequence operator and of the deduction operator in terms of finiteness, we have to define it in terms of continuity. Also, the effectiveness of the deduction apparatus has to be defined by using the tools of constructive real analysis and not the one of recursive arithmetic. This means that decidability and semi-decidability have to be defined by involving effective limit processes and not by finite steps stopping processes.
Frozen expressions of interest
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: November 2017

In most parts of the UK, with the exception of very hilly country, snow can be a rare and fleeting visitor, but as temperatures drop, ice becomes a versatile and fun resource.
An overload of sparkle
Authors: Webb Penny
Published: November 2017

How much is too much when it comes to celebrating Christmas in your setting, and how do you ensure that other festivals are given sufficient coverage to meet children's needs?
The feasibility of nurse-delivered, low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy for irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Dainty Andrew , Hunt Melissa , Holtham Elizabeth , Kinsella Philip , Timmons Stephen , Fox Mark , Callaghan Patrick
Published: November 2017

Introduction: This study assessed the feasibility of nurse-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Methods and analysis: A mixed-method design was used, and 20 participants were randomly allocated to high-intensity CBT (n=5), guided self-help (n=5), self-help only (n=5) or treatment as usual (n=5). Ten intervention participants completed semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics; qualitative data were analysed using group thematic analysis. Results: Barriers to the interventions were lack of therapist contact, negative preconceptions about treatment and factors relating to supporting materials. Treatment facilitators included therapist-facilitated relaxation, narratives located within self-help materials and social support mechanisms. Conclusion: Further development of the low-intensity interventions in collaboration with service users is required to improve intervention acceptability and relevance.
Passing the threshold
Authors: Rossiter Brian
Published: November 2017

Teachers who have passed the threshold and moved onto the upper pay range should be making ‘substantial and sustained’ contributions to their schools. Brian Rossiter looks at how the threshold system should work and some of the related challenges facing schools
Setting SMART objectives
Authors: Moore Jenny
Published: November 2017

Setting performance objectives for your staff is a key part of the planning process for the coming year, and with the end of appraisal reviews around the corner, the next step is getting objectives agreed. Jenny Moore offers five steps to making them meaningful…
Developing a reasoning-rich maths curriculum
Authors: Munns Kirsty
Published: November 2017

In 2015, Kirsty Munns spent 10 days in China observing maths lessons. The experience inspired her to develop a whole-school ‘reasoning-rich’ maths curriculum. She reflects on the outcomes and the lessons learned so far
Working effectively with fathers during the perinatal period
Authors: Rodger Ailsa
Published: November 2017

As evidenced by the rich variety of presentations at the Association for Infant Mental Health's conference, the role of the father in shaping early development and emotional wellbeing is vital but often overlooked.
Management of constipation in infants and young children
Authors: Richardson Davina , Rogers June
Published: November 2017

Constipation in infants and young children is a common problem, and health visitors have a key role to play in early identification and treatment, to prevent it from becoming chronic with the development of faecal impaction. In 2014, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published quality standards with clear recommendations on the assessment and treatment of constipation in children, recommending the use of macrogols as first-line therapy. This article will give an overview of the common causes of constipation in children aged 0–5 years and discuss management of the problem and associated problems, such as stool withholding, as outlined in the NICE recommendations.
End of an era
Authors: Forbes Lisa
Published: November 2017

Lisa Forbes discusses how health visiting has been a springboard to her next adventure as a practice development facilitator.
Effective approaches to heritage education: Raising awareness through fine art practice
Authors: Potočnik Robert
Published: November 2017

By learning about the problems of heritage preservation (conservation and protection of cultural heritage) and by creating fine art products with interesting solutions based on well-known facts from their surroundings, students build and strengthen their critical attitude towards problems of heritage preservation. The purpose of this research was to study whether it would be possible to include the contents of heritage preservation along with the contents of the current curriculum in regular fine art classes in primary schools. Research has shown that the results of teaching with the help of various teaching methods, teaching media, fine art materials and with different ways of fine art expression (fine art motives) were positive. Students came up with interesting solutions when carrying out their fine art assignments and they also displayed greater ability of critical judgement and evaluation of heritage care. To date, there has been no research in Slovenia on the possibilities of raising awareness of the importance of heritage preservation within fine art classes.
'You feel like you're an artist. Like Leonardo da Vinci': Capturing young children’s voices and attitudes towards visual arts
Authors: Tan Michelle , Gibson Robyn
Published: November 2017

Early childhood research is focusing increasingly on issues of acknowledging and respecting the ‘voices’ of young children. Much of the focus in arts education research, however, has explored adult attitudes, resulting in what seems the invisibility of young children’s opinions. Conducted in the context of early childhood education in Australia, the study, following a phenomenological approach, sought to understand the place of visual arts in the lives of four young children aged five to six years in a combined Kindergarten/Year One classroom located in Sydney. A range of childsensitive research tools were adapted from the ‘Mosaic approach’ to explore how children understand and conceive their early experiences of visual arts learning. In acknowledging the views of children, possibilities for improving arts pedagogy were considered as new questions emerged. The study confirmed the need to acknowledge and validate children’s rich and perceptive attitudes through meaningful experiences and valued conversations.
The evaluation of short-term nutrition education on the nutrition habits of university students
Authors: Sabbağ Çiğdem
Published: November 2017

Nutrition education provision during adolescence and its continuation in university have high impact for sustaining physically, mentally and socially healthy societies. Moreover, when a positive manner in nutrition habits is achieved following this activity, it is considered as a successful prosperity that continues lifelong. Because each age groups nutrition differs than other. The study was undertaken with the participation 395 students out of which 250 were female and 145 were. Questionnaires were undertaken for assessing any change in students’ nutritional habits following 20 hours of nutrition education. Results revealed 83.3% change in students’ nutrition habits following education program. Female students had internalized healthy food choice than male students by consuming more fruit and decreasing fast food preferences along with taking more care on controlling food label and expire dates of foods. These behaviors found statistically important with p<0.05 and effect of even a short period education was manifested. The next step would be to provide information that will increase the continuity and traceability of the nutrition training to course content planners in educational institutions. Because permanent habit development should be the main target for achieving successful results following nutritional education.
Nutritional habits and heart health of university students
Authors: Oğuz Sıdıka , Çemçem Nalan , Çamcı Gülşah , Gürkan Aysel
Published: November 2017

This study was performed to determine nutritional habits of the university students and to evaluate the nutritional habits according to the heart health. The research was performed in a cross-sectional and descriptive study between the students studying a university in Turkey between February 2015 -May 2015. A questionnaire was used a total of 32 questions for data collection.  602 voluntary students participated in the study. 69.3% of the students whose average of age were 20.04±1.87 were female students and 63% of them were studying at the Faculty of Health Sciences. It was stated that breakfast was the most skipped meal and males had breakfast more than the female students (p=.001). Females consumed foods containing additives more than males (p<.05). Males consumed omega-3 more than the females (p=.019). It was stated that females drank more milk than the males in the breakfast (p=.044).  Most of the male students added salt before tasting the foods (p=.001). Males drank more water than the females (p=.003). It was detected that most of the females preferred whole wheat bread while most of the males preferred white bread in the meals (p=.001). It was found that the students consumed more the foods containing additives, consumed vegetable, fruit and fish little, added salt before tasting the foods and did not have breakfast regularly. According to these results, it was found that the nutritional habits of university students were not good according to the heart health.
Peirce’s Semiotics in a Commercial Context
Authors: Liu Wenling
Published: November 2017

This article investigates the practical application of Peirce’s pragmaticism in the social sciences through the analysis of commercial signboards as signs. We find that Peirce’s semiotic theory is of great instructive significance to a specific case, but has its limitations, especially in the study of human semiotics or human philology. Peirce’s theory can be conceived in two ways: using commercial signboards as cases to explain Peirce’s semiotic classification system; and using Peirce’s semiotic theory as a tool to analyze and study the features of an object in special status. We focus on the practical application of this theory.
Bridging the Unbridgeable
Authors: Chen Ningyang
Published: November 2017

This paper takes as a starting point the age-long debate over the formidable divide between Chinese and Indo-European languages, a widely endorsed standpoint from which a vigorous line of research has sprung up, with findings reinforcing the “unbridgeable” divide and “specificities” of the Chinese language. Through the lens of semiotics, I revisit some of the pervasive arguments sustaining this view, and identify the unsolved problems concerning the absence oftertium comparationisin comparative and contrastive analyses. Drawing on semiotic insights on the philosophy of language relevant to the debated “specificities” of Chinese, I venture to propose a semiotic solution to mitigate the upheld divide between Chinese and alphabetical languages in Chinese linguistics studies, and argue for a negotiated view against the binary approaches and the skewed methodology in a comparative/contrastive framework.
New and noteworthy vascular plant records from the Polish part of the Lithuanian Lakeland
Authors: Pliszko Artur
Published: November 2017

This paper provides a list of 40 vascular plant species recorded in 2015–2017 in the Polish part of the Lithuanian Lakeland (north-eastern Poland), using the ATPOL cartogram method. Two native taxa Erigeron acris subsp. droebachiensis and Rorippa austriaca, one established alien Atriplex tatarica and one casual alien Aronia × prunifolia are reported as new to the flora of the region.
A new record of Arabis recta Vill. (Brassicaceae) from Poland
Authors: Wróbel Anna , Klichowska Ewelina , Nobis Agnieszka , Nobis Marcin
Published: November 2017

Arabis recta Vill. is a therophyte currently considered to be endangered in Poland (EN category). The species has been reported from ca. 20 localities situated mainly in the Nida Basin (southeastern Poland). Arabis recta is usually a component of xero-thermophile grasslands, but it can also grow in arable fields or fallows. An abundant population of A. recta was found on slopes of the Góra Sosnówka hill (Małopolska Upland) in 2017. This newly discovered locality is currently the northernmost in Poland. The distribution of A. recta in Poland as well as collected phytosociological documentation are presented.
A pioneering sociolinguistic concept: Amund B. Larsen and his discovery in the 1880s of neighbour opposition as a socio-psychological mechanism in linguistic change – and its rediscovery in the 1980s as hyperdialectism
Authors: Jahr Ernst Håkon
Published: November 2017

In the 1880s, the Norwegian linguist Amund Bredesen Larsen (1849–1928) discovered a special socio-psychological mechanism in linguistic change which is today referred to in the literature as

The paper also includes a short biography of Amund B. Larsen.
„Vifter, Juveler og smaa, højhælede Sko“. Mode und Kleidung bei Karen Blixen
Authors: Heitmann Annegret
Published: November 2017

Starting from Karen Blixen’s personal interest in fashion and from basic ideas in current fashion-theory, the article wants to explore how clothes and fashion figure in Blixen´s narratives. Examples from her various collections of stories show that clothes are used as a complex sign-system, not only to convey cultural-historical settings or to portray individual fictional characters. The depiction of fashion stages and questions the dichotomies of gender and class, of “Schein und “Sein”, seeming and being, and of constraints and freedom. Most importantly, clothes can function as a cultural code for self-fashioning and an adequate self-expression.
Trust Cognition of Entrepreneurs’ Behavioral Consistency Modulates Investment Decisions of Venture Capitalists in Cooperation
Authors: Yang Hongtao , Li Haiyan
Published: November 2017

Previous studies have established that venture capitalists (VCs) adjust their investment decisions according to the economic outcome of their cooperation with entrepreneurs. However, investment decisions made by VCs are embedded in social interaction and influenced by information from third parties. Therefore, research studies on interpersonal trust in the disciplines of economics, psychology and neuroscience were integrated in this paper to explore how the trust cognition of VCs in entrepreneurs’ behavior consistency affects their investment decision-making. First, behavioral consistency is the criterion used by VCs to assess the credibility of entrepreneurs. Second, a trust game was designed for VCs and entrepreneurs, during which EEG (electroencephalogram) of the VCs was recorded. Finally, a learning model was developed on each participant’s behavior and showed the process of investment decision-making. The results indicated that investment decisions of VCs are significantly affected by trust cognition and rewards of cooperation, VCsʼ investment decisions are guided by their trust cognition in the behavioral consistency of entrepreneurs and investment experiences have a significant impact on investment decisions when VCs are cooperating with entrepreneurs with a moderate level of behavioral consistency. One explanation for these findings may be a result of the fact that the neutral information is ambiguous and uncertain; thus, VCs preferred to rely on the outcome of cooperation to adjust their investment decisions.
Not-So-Big and Big Credit Data Between Traditional Consumer Finance, FinTechs, and the Banking Union: Old and New Challenges in an Enduring EU Policy and Legal Conundrum
Authors: Ferretti Federico
Published: November 2017

This paper discusses the role and usage of traditional and non-traditional consumer data in the retail financial markets of the European Union in the context of the economic theories, policies, and law within which they work. Across Europe there is no common practice of using the credit data of consumers, which can be exploited for several purposes. Traditionally, they are used by the lending industry as a risk-management tool to underwrite borrowing decisions or price risks, but they can also be used as a practice of creditworthiness assessment. In some Member States, consumer data are part of a broader information centralisation system for the prudential supervision of banks and the financial system as a whole. Within this already complex picture, emerging technologies and the processing of new generations of personal data are starting to give way to new business models that can transform retail financial markets (Fintechs). Whatever the function the data perform, their source, type, breath, and depth differ greatly from country to country. Unlike for the harmonisation of EU rules on credit to consumers for the creation of the internal market, the underlying consumer data infrastructure remains fragmented at national level, failing to achieve univocal, common, or defined policy objectives under a harmonised legal framework. Likewise, the establishment of the Banking Union and the prudential supervision of the Euro-area demand standardisation and convergence of the data used to measure debt levels, arrears, and delinquencies. The many functions and different usages of credit data suggest that the policy goals to be achieved should inform the design and structure of the databases, as well as the role, legal, and institutional framework of the organisations managing the data system (the Data Brokers). This is also because fundamental rights and consumer protection concerns arise from the dissemination and sharing of traditional and non-traditional data, as well as from their expanding uses. This is an area of the EU internal market that demands the attention of the EU legislator without further delays.
Host target-based approaches against arboviral diseases
Authors: Rocha Rebeca Froes , Del Sarto Juliana Lemos , Marques Rafael Elias , Costa Vivian Vasconcelos , Teixeira Mauro Martins
Published: November 2017

In the 20th century, socioeconomic and environmental changes facilitated the reintroduction of mosquitoes in developing cities, resulting in the reinsertion of mosquito-borne viral diseases and the dispersal of their causative agents on a worldwide scale. Recurrent outbreaks of arboviral diseases are being reported, even in regions without a previous history of arboviral disease transmission. Of note, arboviral infections represented approximately 30% of all emerging vector-borne diseases in the last decade. Therapeutic strategies against infectious viral diseases include the use of different classes of molecules that act directly on the pathogen and/or act by optimizing the host immune response. Drugs targeting the virus usually provide amelioration of symptoms by suppressing and controlling the infection. However, it is limited by the short-window of effectiveness, ineffectiveness against latent viruses, development of drug-resistant mutants and toxic side effects. Disease may also be a consequence of an excessive, uncontrolled or misplaced inflammatory response, treatments that interfere in host immune response are interesting options and can be used isolated or in combination with virus-targeted therapies. The use of host-targeted therapies requires specific knowledge regarding host immune patterns that may trigger dengue virus (DENV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV) or Zika virus (ZIKV) disease.
Drying Kinetics of Continuous and Intermittent Heat Pump Drying of Green Soybean Seeds
Authors: Zhao Haibo , Yang Zhao , Tao Zhichao
Published: November 2017

This paper is concerned with drying kinetics and models of heat pump drying (HPD) of green soybean. Experiments were done for continuous and intermittent drying with intermittency of 1, 3 and 6. Drying rate decreases sharply in continuous HPD process, while circuitously in intermittent HPD process. Peak drying rate values appear in every drying period of intermittent drying and differ a lot because of different intermittent ratios. In addition, various mathematical models were investigated to describe the HPD kinetics of green soybean seeds. Fitting suitability of the experimental data by models was specified as comparing the coefficient of correlation (R
2), mean absolute percentage error (E
MD%), Chi-square Χ
2 and root mean square error (E
RMS). The page model and 23rd model were found to be the most suitable models in describing the continuous and intermittent drying of green soybeans, respectively.
Numerical methods for solving the first-kind boundary value problem for a linear second-order differential equation with a deviating argument
Authors: Abregov Muhad H. , Kanchukoev Vladimir Z. , Shardanova Maryana A.
Published: November 2017

This work is devoted to the numerical methods for solving the first-kind boundary value problem for a linear second-order differential equation with a deviating argument in minor terms. The sufficient conditions of the one-valued solvability are established, and the a priori estimate of the solution is obtained. For the numerical solution, the problem studied is reduced to the equivalent boundary value problem for an ordinary linear differential equation of fourth order, for which the finite-difference scheme of second-order approximation was built. The convergence of this scheme to the exact solution is shown under certain conditions of the solvability of the initial problem. To solve the finite-difference problem, the method of five-point marching of schemes is used.
Crystal structure of 4-chloro-2-methyl-6-(4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrimidine, C12H8ClF3N2O
Authors: Bertrand Jean-Luc , Salas Cristian O. , Brito Iván
Published: November 2017

C12H8ClF3N2O, tetragonal, I4̅ (no. 82), a = 23.280(6) Å, c = 4.7191(15) Å, V = 2557.6(15) Å3, Z = 8, Rgt
= 0.0700, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1933, T = 296(2) K.
The crystal structure of bis(2-benzoyl-5-hydroxylphenolato-κ2
O,O′)copper(II), C26H18CuO6
Authors: Wang Hui , Xiao Zi-Jing
Published: November 2017

Cu(C13H9O3)2, tetragonal, I41/a (no. 88), a = 14.2364(4) Å, c = 20.5410(7) Å, V = 4163.1(3) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0482, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1476, T = 293 K.
Can the EU’s constitutional framework accommodate democratic politics?
Authors: Scicluna Nicole
Published: November 2017

The robustness of the EU’s constitutional framework – and its ability to accommodate democratic politics – is challenged as never before. The growing disconnect between formally democratic procedures and substantive choice is well illustrated by the Greek crisis. Since its first bailout in May 2010, Greece has held four general elections and a referendum. Yet, the anti-austerity preferences of the Greek electorate have not been effectively translated into policy.

This article uses the Greek crisis to analyse the EU’s democratic deficit, and the related issue of the locus of legal and political sovereignty in the EU. It argues that the EU’s constitutional framework is not sufficiently responsive to changing material conditions or to the changing preferences of Europeans. Thus, EU constitutionalism needs to be refashioned in order to strike a better balance between democratic and technocratic governance, as well as between the needs of individual citizens, national citizenries, and states.