bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of probiotic supplementation on metabolic status in type 2 diabetic patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Raygan Fariba , Rezavandi Zohreh , Bahmani Fereshteh , Ostadmohammadi Vahidreza , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Tajabadi-Ebrahimi Maryam , Borzabadi Shokoofeh , Asemi Zatollah
Published: June 2018

Background

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on metabolic profiles in diabetic patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 60 diabetic patients with CHD, aged 40–85 years at a cardiology clinic in Kashan, Iran, from October 2017 through January 2018. Patients were randomly divided into two groups to take either probiotic supplements (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and after the 12-week intervention to determine related markers.

Results

After 12-week intervention, probiotic supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (β − 20.02 mg/dL; 95% CI − 33.86, − 6.17; P = 0.005), insulin (β − 2.09 µIU/mL; 95% CI − 3.77, − 0.41; P = 0.01), insulin resistance (β − 0.50; 95% CI − 0.96, − 0.03; P = 0.03) and total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio (β − 0.27; 95% CI − 0.52, − 0.03; P = 0.02), and significantly increased insulin sensitivity (β 0.008; 95% CI 0.001, 0.01; P = 0.02) and HDL-cholesterol levels (β 2.52 mg/dL; 95% CI 0.04, 5.00; P = 0.04) compared with the placebo. Moreover, probiotic supplementation led to a significant reduction in serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (β − 0.88 mg/L; 95% CI − 1.39, − 0.38; P = 0.001), and a significant elevation in total antioxidant capacity (β 108.44 mmol/L; 95% CI 47.61, 169.27; P = 0.001) and total glutathione levels (β 45.15 µmol/L; 95% CI 5.82, 84.47; P = 0.02) compared with the placebo. Probiotic supplementation did not affect other metabolic profiles.

Conclusions

Overall, we found that probiotic supplementation for 12 weeks had beneficial effects on glycemic control, HDL-cholesterol, total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio, biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic patients with CHD.

Trial registration Clinical trial registration number http://www.irct.ir: IRCT2017082733941N5
Taiwan-Specific Model for VS30 Prediction Considering Between-Proxy Correlations
Authors: Kwok On Lei Annie , Stewart Jonathan P. , Kwak Dong Youp , Sun Pang-Li
Published: June 2018

Ergodic site response models are generally conditional on the time-averaged shear wave velocity in the upper 30 m ( V S30). Ground motion databases contain many recordings from Taiwan, and because of site characterization efforts, 56% of recording sites have V S30 derived from measurements. We develop proxy-based V S30 prediction models, one application of which is for the remaining 44% of Taiwan sites. Our approach, which can be suitable for other regions, differs from previous studies in which proxies are based on detailed geologic categories and possible within-category topographic gradient effects. Instead, we use three broad, age-based geologic categories, and for the youngest category of Holocene and Quaternary undivided sediments, we propose models conditioned on gradient and elevation. We also adapt a geomorphic terrain-based method, thus providing two V S30-prediction models. We describe a model weighting scheme that combines the models in consideration of their relative dispersions and correlation, producing a weighted mean and standard deviation natural-log V S30. Included as an electronic supplement is a profile database file and a site database with site parameters for Taiwan ground motion stations.
Successful Targeted Therapies for Breast Cancer: the Worcester Foundation and Future Opportunities in Women’s Health
Authors: Abderrahman Balkees , Jordan V Craig
Published: June 2018

The signing of the National Cancer Act in 1971 was designed to take laboratory discoveries rapidly from the bench to the bedside. A “war on cancer” had been declared. Combination cytotoxic chemotherapy was predicted to cure all cancers, based on the stunning success in treating childhood leukemia. Breast cancer treatments were primitive; radical mastectomy and radiation were standard of care for disease that had not spread. Ablative endocrine surgery (oophorectomy, hypophysectomy, and adrenalectomy) was a palliative last option for metastatic breast cancer. However, only 30% responded, surviving for only 1 or 2 years: every patient soon died. The discovery of the estrogen receptor (ER) and translation to breast cancer treatment triggered a revolution in women’s health. Two important but interconnected events occurred in 1972 at the Worcester Foundation for Experimental Biology (WFEB) that would exploit the breast tumor ER as the first target to save lives and prevent breast cancer development. Two new groups of medicines—selective ER modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs)—would continue the momentum of research at the WFEB to improve women’s health. Here, we recount the important progress made in women’s health based on knowledge of the endocrinology of breast cancer. We propose future opportunities in SERM therapeutics to “refresh” the current standards of care for breast cancer treatment. The opportunity is based on emerging knowledge about acquired resistance to long-term adjuvant AI therapy used to treat breast cancer.
Development of a Rescue Echocardiography Protocol for Noncardiac Surgery Patients
Authors: Staudt Genevieve E. , Shelton Kenneth
Published: June 2018

Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a helpful diagnostic tool when hemodynamic compromise is encountered during noncardiac surgery. At our institution, a Rescue Echo Protocol was created to provide a structured means for requesting and performing a rescue TEE. We analyzed our institutional utilization of this service and found that it was used throughout the spectrum of patients’ American Society of Anesthesiologists classifications and surgical services. We demonstrated that 72.9% of rescue examinations resulted in a change in management, supporting the use of TEE as a diagnostic tool during hemodynamic compromise.
Energetic costs of locomotion in bears: is plantigrade locomotion energetically economical?
Authors: Pagano Anthony M. , Carnahan Anthony M. , Robbins Charles T. , Owen Megan A. , Batson Tammy , Wagner Nate , Cutting Amy , Nicassio-Hiskey Nicole , Hash Amy , Williams Terrie M.
Published: June 2018

Ursids are the largest mammals to retain a plantigrade posture. This primitive posture has been proposed to result in reduced locomotor speed and economy relative to digitigrade and unguligrade species, particularly at high speeds. Previous energetics research on polar bears (Ursus maritimus) found locomotor costs were more than double predictions for similarly sized quadrupedal mammals, which could be a result of their plantigrade posture or due to adaptations to their Arctic marine existence. To evaluate whether polar bears are representative of terrestrial ursids or distinctly uneconomical walkers, this study measured the mass-specific metabolism, overall dynamic body acceleration, and gait kinematics of polar bears and grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) trained to rest and walk on a treadmill. At routine walking speeds, we found polar bears and grizzly bears exhibited similar costs of locomotion and gait kinematics, but differing measures of overall dynamic body acceleration. Minimum cost of transport while walking in the two species (2.21 J kg−1 m−1) was comparable to predictions for similarly sized quadrupedal mammals, but these costs doubled (4.42 J kg−1 m−1) at speeds ≥5.4 km h−1. Similar to humans, another large plantigrade mammal, bears appear to exhibit a greater economy while moving at slow speeds.
A systematic review comparing the evidence for kidney function outcomes between oral antidiabetic drugs for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wilkinson Samantha V. , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Iwagami Masao , Stirnadel-Farrant Heide A. , Smeeth Liam , Douglas Ian
Published: June 2018

Background: The development of kidney disease is a serious complication among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, associated with substantially increased morbidity and mortality.  We aimed to summarise the current evidence for the relationship between treatments for type 2 diabetes and long-term kidney outcomes, by conducting a systematic search and review of relevant studies.

Methods: We searched Medline, Embase and Web of Science, between 1st January 1980 and 15th May 2018 for published clinical trials and observational studies comparing two or more classes of oral therapy for type 2 diabetes. We included people receiving oral antidiabetic drugs. Studies were eligible that; (i) compared two or more classes of oral therapy for type 2 diabetes; (ii) reported kidney outcomes as primary or secondary outcomes; (iii) included more than 100 participants; and (iv) followed up participants for 48 weeks or more. Kidney-related outcome measures included were Incidence of chronic kidney disease, reduced eGFR, increased creatinine, ‘micro’ and ‘macro’ albuminuria.

Results: We identified 15 eligible studies, seven of which were randomised controlled trials and eight were observational studies. Reporting of specific renal outcomes varied widely. Due to variability of comparisons and outcomes meta-analysis was not possible. The majority of comparisons between treatment with metformin or sulfonylurea indicated that metformin was associated with better renal outcomes. Little evidence was available for recently introduced treatments or commonly prescribed combination therapies.

Conclusions: Comparative evidence for the effect of treatments for type 2 diabetes on renal outcomes, either as monotherapy or in combination is sparse.
Family As a Factor of Socialization
Authors: Серебрякова Т. , Serebryakova T. , Семенова Л. , Semenova L. , Семенова В. , Semenova V.
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this article is to acquaint with the results of empirical understanding of the role of the family in the process of socialization of the individual. Application of the method of theoretical analysis allows to draw a conclusion about long — term and very steady interest of representatives of different branches of human knowledge to the most different aspects of a problem of socialization of the personality, including, — to the factors and conditions influencing success of socialization, at different levels of ontogenetic development of the personality. Fundamental research carried out by philosophers, cultural scientists, sociologists (works by A. Adler, W. James, J. Math. Kelly, A. Maslow, J. Mead G. Allport, Talcott Parsons; V.L. Abushenko, B.G. Ananyeva, A.A. Bodalev, L.S. Vygotsky, A.G. Kovalev, I.S. Kon, A.F. Lazursky, V.N. Myasishchev, V.S. Mukhina, A.A. Reina, M.V. Roma, D.B. Elkonin, etc.), indicate that the process of formation of fundamental values and motivational attitudes as well as spiritual and moral sphere of the personality that are crucial for the process of socialization, carried out primarily in the family. The family is of particular importance for the socio-cultural development of children of early and preschool age. The study conducted by us objectively proved that only 40% of children who took part in the study have a high level of socio-cultural development. The majority of children of preschool age have the level of their socialization below the age standards and opportunities. Considering the socialization of the individual as a multifaceted process of integration of the individual and society, in the structure of socio-cultural development, we highlight the affective, cognitive and behavioral components and believe that their comprehensive study allows not only to draw an objective conclusion about the level of socio-cultural development of the subject, but also to design a developmental program aimed at effective socialization of the child in family education.
Monitoring of Physical Development, Physical Fitness and State of Health of Students of Special Medical Group as Instrument of Control and Basis for Design of the Sports Environment Students in Technical University
Authors: Кузьмина Ольга , Kuzmina Olga , Германов Геннадий , Germanov Gennadiy , Рахматов Ахмеджан , Rakhmatov Akhmedzhan , Швачун Оксана , Shvachun Oksana
Published: June 2018

The use of monitoring technologies as an important tool for studying the physical development, physical readiness and health status of the students of III functional group allows to get an estimate of the initial level of their parameters, and gives the opportunity to monitor, evaluate the eff ectiveness of the educational process of physical education, implement corrective measures in its content. The use of monitoring makes it possible to identify priority and long-term measures for the prevention and elimination of the negative eff ects of the educational process on the health status of student youth, to implement an individualized approach to the process of teaching on the subject of physical education.
Maths mastery uncovered
Authors: Staneff Tony
Published: June 2018

Maths mastery is the latest policy being supported by the government. Tony Staneff explores the truth behind some common maths mastery myths and outlines four ways to kick-start your school's journey to mastery
NEWS ANALYSIS
Authors: Learner Sue
Published: June 2018

Care workers do not receive the recognition they deserve, on top of that the sector suffers from high staff turnover and low pay. MPs are calling for a campaign to promote the image of care
Will the CQC's new business plan bring greater efficiency?
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: June 2018

In 2016 the Care Quality Commission set out a five-year strategy, focusing on a more responsive inspection model and improving information to the public. Helena Frankova evaluates the goals that have been set out in its new business plan.
Preventing sexual harassment in the workplace
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: June 2018

Sexual harassment claims are on the rise, these claims often lead to a costly settlement or a damaged reputation for an employer. Adam Bernstein advises on how to create a workplace culture where unwanted behaviour is unlikely to occur.
New CQC proposal risks reputation damage for homes
Authors: Ponting Stuart , Burrows Claire
Published: June 2018

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has proposed publishing details on enforcement action sooner, before a home has had the opportunity to appeal. Stuart Ponting and Claire Burrows discuss the possible consequences of this proposal.
Helping older people get back into exercise
Authors: Swann Julie
Published: June 2018

Exercise, even a light variety, can have great benefits for care home residents, prolonging the use of certain muscles and limbs. Julie Swann explains what types of exercise can be done and how to get even those with fewer functions left moving
We've explored… giants
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: June 2018

Reception children wrote letters to the giant from Jack and the Beanstalk after he secretly visited their classroom. By Annette Rawstrone
The magic of books
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: June 2018

With fewer parents reading to their children, Penny Tassoni explains how practitioners can best share books
Leading or following?
Authors: Fisher Julie
Published: June 2018

In the first of a four-part series on the adult role in supporting early learning, Julie Fisher looks at the different purposes of learning initiated by the adult or the child
Worry not!
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: June 2018

Giggle Doctors are helping children in hospital overcome their ordeal and have some fun. Annette Rawstrone finds out more
Application of Artificial Neural Network Classification to Determine Nutrient Content in Oil Palm Leaves
Authors: James J. Helena  Anusia , Wan I. Wan  Ishak , Nawi Nazmi    Mat , M. Shariff Abdul  Rashid , Mehdizadeh Saman  Abdanan
Published: June 2018

The classification of oil palm nutrient level based on leaf samples is an important factor to dictate the quality of fresh fruit bunch (FFB). The optimum nutrient level in a palm tree ensures high yield and productivity. This study evaluated a spectroradiometer of spectral bands ranging from 350 to 2500 nm to detect nutrient level in oil palm leaf samples. The features considered were types of nutrient and fronds, explored in spectral reflectance of wavelength for nutrient level determination. Results from statistical analysis using the spectral reflectance of oil palm leaves with partial least square (PLS) models were used for classification of three nutrient levels, comprising of low, optimum, and high amount of fertilization, using the artificial neural network (ANN) to inspect oil palm leaves for contents of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K). From the 90 leaf samples, the ANN models had classification performance of 85.32% accuracy for oil palm nutrient contents determination and 69.42% accuracy for frond identification. Results of this study imply the use of ANN as a prime tool for classification and identification of features in oil palm leaves. Keywords: Artificial neural network (ANN), Oil palm, Nutrients, Spectroradiometer.
Versatility of the MAnure PHosphorus EXtraction (MAPHEX) System in Removing Phosphorus, Odor, Microbes, and Alkalinity from Dairy Manures: A Four-Farm Case Study
Authors: Church Clinton D. , Hristov Alexander N. , Kleinman Peter J.A. , Fishel Sarah K. , Reiner Michael R. , Bryant Ray B.
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Animal manure contains nutrients [primarily nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)] and organic material that are beneficial to crops. Unfortunately, for economic and logistics reasons, most manure tends to be applied to soils near where it is generated. Over time P concentrations in soils where dairy manure is applied builds up, often in excess of crop demands, and its potential loss in runoff poses a risk to water quality. We previously described, and have subsequently built, a full-scale version of a MAnure PHosphorus EXtraction (MAPHEX) System capable of removing greater than 90% of the P from manures. While originally designed to remove phosphorus, we postulated that the MAPHEX System was also capable of removing odor and microbes, and of concentrating alkalinity into a solid, economically transported form. In this study the MAPHEX System was shown to be highly versatile at removing greater than 90% of the phosphorus from a wide range of dairy manures. In addition, the study showed that the System is also capable of concentrating and recovering alkalinity from manures, while also removing over 80% of microbes and reducing the odor of the effluent applied to fields by half. Keywords: Alkalinity, Chemical treatment, Manure, Microbes, Odor, Phosphorus, Treatment systems, Solid separation.
Drying of Rough Rice Using Heated Husk for Heat Transfer and Moisture Adsorption
Authors: Sadaka Sammy S. , Atungulu Griffiths G.
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Drying of small size samples usually represents a challenge to rice researchers. Using natural air drying to dry these samples exposes them to the fluctuations of ambient air conditions. Therefore, the goal of this research was to evaluate the suitability of drying small size rough rice samples using heated husk as a heat transfer and moisture adsorbent medium. The proposed drying technique could be an attainable process, particularly because it represents conduction heat and moisture transfer rather than natural air drying. The required amounts of rice husk were placed in aluminum containers and kept in an oven overnight to reach the desired temperature. Heated husk samples were mixed with rough rice and maintained for the desired drying duration; following which, the husk and rough rice mixtures were separated pneumatically. The separated rough rice samples were collected to determine moisture content, drying rate, and rice quality. The highest mixture temperature of 34.0°C was achieved at the highest husk to rough rice ratio of 1:2 and the highest husk temperature of 110°C after 4 minutes. A maximum of 6.4% moisture reduction points was achieved by mixing the rice husk to rough rice by 1:2 on a weight basis and employing heated rice husk at 100°C. The highest drying rate of 5.99%/h was achieved during the first hour of drying with the husk-to-rough rice ratio of 1:2 and the husk temperature of 100°C. Milled rice yield ranged between 63.4% and 72.0% while the head rice yield ranged between 39.9% and 67.9%. An empirical correlation was developed to calculate the normalized moisture content as a function of the husk to rough rice ratio, the husk temperature and drying duration with a coefficient of determination of 0.775 under the studied conditions. Keywords: Conduction drying, Heat transfer medium, Moisture absorbent, Rice husk, Rough rice.
Tensions and resilience: the experiences of adult foster-care workers in Finland
Authors: Leinonen Emilia
Published: June 2018

This article examines adult foster care for older people in Finland. This is a semi-formal service in which older people are cared for by foster carers who are remunerated for their work by the local municipality. In the article, the tensions and resources of resilience of foster-care work are analysed. The data consist of 12 thematic interviews with foster carers. The results suggest that foster-care work is emotionally draining and has adverse effects on social relationships. However, foster carers see caring as purposeful, they see themselves as professionals and they have enough social resources.
From institutionalisation via good intentions – and back again?
Authors: Dahl Bård K.
Published: June 2018

In this article, I present and critically discuss some of the developments that have taken place within welfare services for people with intellectual disabilities in Norway over the past four decades. My knowledge and expertise is drawn from my experiences as a care worker from 1987 until 1993 in one of Norway's central institutions for persons with intellectual disabilities (Emma Hjorth institution).
User-controlled personal assistance – the case of persons with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Hanssen Anne-Britt Horn , Grasli Sidsel Maxwell
Published: June 2018

This article is based on professional as well as family carer experiences with different social care services for persons with intellectual disabilities. The focus is on differences between traditional welfare services in group homes (see the Debates and Issues article by Dahl) and alternative services with ‘user control’ as the main principle. The aim of the article is to present the circumstances under which user-controlled services became an option for persons with intellectual disabilities, and to argue that this option is pivotal for enhancing quality of life. In order to give insight into the issues, we present the case of Elvira (pseudonym).
Making a world of difference for carers: the Pathways for Carers project
Authors: Burridge Fiona
Published: June 2018

Local government, service providers and community members are working together to make a difference in the lives of carers and those they care for in a community in Australia. Maroondah City Council is located 25 km east of Melbourne, in the state of Victoria, at the foot of Mount Dandenong. Maroondah covers an area of 61 km and has a population of about 112,300 people. The council has been working with carers in their community on a ‘Pathways for Carers’ project, with one of the outcomes being the installation of a seat in recognition of the role that carers play in the community.
Eldercare agencies and the marketing of care work in the Czech Republic: relieving a family burden?
Authors: Hronová Tereza , Souralová Adéla
Published: June 2018

This article focuses on the private for-profit agencies providing eldercare that have recently emerged in the post-socialist Czech Republic, a country with strong familist tendencies in eldercare organisation. We draw upon 10 in-depth interviews with owners of these agencies, focusing on how they create their services, define the care they provide and target potential clients. We also analyse the websites of the selected agencies to investigate how they promote their services online. The main aim of this article is to illuminate the strategies of marketising eldercare in the agencies. We identify the process of the ‘burdenisation’ of eldercare as an outcome of its marketisation.
Long-term care and intermediary structures for frail older people: Switzerland and Germany in comparison
Authors: Kehl Konstantin , Smith Rahel Strohmeier Navarro
Published: June 2018

Long-term care not only includes residential care, home care and familial care, but services ‘inbetween’, such as day and night care, temporary (short-term) stays in nursing homes, respite care, and local infrastructure giving informed advice and conveying informal support. In both Switzerland and Germany, the role of such intermediary structures has been debated and affected by social policy reforms. The authors analyse different functions of intermediary structures, discuss their access and use, and show that intermediary structures can have a different impact on care regimes.
Supporting carers in a remote region of Quebec, Canada: how much space for social innovation?
Authors: Alberio Marco
Published: June 2018

This research moves from the general hypothesis that assistance provided to a person needing support, and the effort needed to articulate work and care may, under certain conditions, become a factor in carers’ inequality and vulnerability. The article presents the results of qualitative research conducted in Québec, Canada, with carers of older people who also have full-time paid employment in the labour market, and on professionals providing these carers with services. It considers how the services offered to carers have been implemented and how they can affect carers’ daily lives.
Open Data y turismo. Implicaciones para la gestión turística en ciudades y destinos turísticos inteligentes
Authors: Celdrán Bernabeu Marco Antonio , Mazón Jose-Norberto , Giner Sánchez David
Published: June 2018

La irrupción de Internet y el progresivo despliegue de las tecnologías de la información y comunicación (TIC), ha generado interesantes oportunidades para la planificación y gestión de las ciudades y destinos turísticos del siglo XXI. En este escenario, los entornos urbanos producen una gran cantidad de datos como consecuencia directa del uso intensivo de las TIC. Este trabajo se aproxima al concepto de Open Data desde dos hipótesis. Por una parte, que su aplicación en el ámbito del turismo puede generar un ecosistema innovador que mejore la experiencia turística, gracias al diseño de productos y servicios TIC. Y por otra, que su  grado actual de aplicación en turismo es bajo y necesita de medidas de apoyo. Con el fin de corroborarlas, se plantean dos objetivos. En primer lugar, y desde una vertiente teórico-conceptual, profundizar en la terminología de Open Data, conceptos relacionados y sus implicaciones para la gestión turística. En segundo lugar, conocer su grado de aplicación actual en el turismo, para proponer recomendaciones que favorezcan su uso. Con este fin, se analizan los conjuntos de datos abiertos en turismo de las ciudades de la Red Española de Ciudades Inteligentes (RECI). Este trabajo constituye un punto de partida en la investigación de las relaciones entre Open Data y turismo.
Turismo de interior en España. Productos y dinámicas territoriales
Authors: Blázquez-Salom Macià
Published: June 2018

Reseña del libro: G. Cànoves, A. Blanco-Romero, J.M. Prat, M. Villarino, eds. (2017). Turismo de interior en España. Productos y dinámicas territoriales. Publicacions de la Universitat. ISBN: 978-84-9134-193-2, 308 pp.
La brújula de la educomunicación [Editorial]
Authors: Marta-Lazo Carmen
Published: June 2018

En el editorial del número anterior, levamos anclas para adentrarnos en las investigaciones realizadas en los países de la cuenca mediterránea y con los que se establecen sinergias culturales o se mantiene proximidad geográfica. Nuestro norte es tratar de ser un referente en los trabajos que afectan a todas las áreas de la comunicación marcadas por dicha cartografía. Nudo a nudo, verso a verso, como diría el poeta, nos vamos situando en el mapa de los índices. Prueba de ello es la situación en cuarto puesto de las revistas latinoamericanas en comunicación, en el índice recientemente publicado por la Red Iberoamericana de innovación y Conocimiento Científico, promovido por Clarivate y CSIC.
Carlos Guilherme Mota, Profesor de la Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie y emérito de la Universidade de São Paulo
Authors: Santos Pérez José Manuel
Published: June 2018

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La Democracia Moderna, su evolución y la necesidad de optimización
Authors: Beçak Rubens
Published: June 2018

A pesar de ser un fenómeno relativamente reciente, la democracia parece haber sido alzada a un nivel de omnipresencia, y su existencia y entronización son verdaderamente entendidas como un postulado. En este sentido, es muy importante entender cómo se produjo su evolución en la perspectiva histórica moderna para, ante todo, entender cómo evolucionó el modelo, adoptando la representación a través de partidos políticos. A pesar de sus pretendidas cualidades, la crítica al modelo siempre ha existido, normalmente centrada en su eventual falta de legitimidad. Esta crítica, en la mayor parte de las ocasiones, se hizo buscando mejorarlo, aproximándolo al pretendido ideal colectivo. En el marco de este sesgo evolutivo vamos a observar la construcción de modelos alternativos, que preferimos ver como complementarios al tradicional – modelo representativo a través de partidos – mayormente con la adopción de prácticas de democracia directa, procedentes del sistema denominado semidirecto. Este, adoptado en el actual ordenamiento constitucional brasileiro, que prevé la utilización de las figuras de plebiscito, emreferendum/em e iniciativa popular, no parece haberse agotado en cuanto a cuestionamiento y crítica. Al contrario, se han recrudecido en las últimas décadas, estallando en la doctrina y viniendo a propugnar la adopción de experiencias diferentes. Estas prácticas, con mecanismos denominados participativos y deliberativos, tienen la cualidad de facilitar la búsqueda de una posible optimización democrática.
Número de candidatos y desarrollo regional en análisis de financiación de campañas: una propuesta metodológica para comparar los efectos de la monetización de las campañas electorales en Brasil
Authors: Urizzi Cervi Emerson
Published: June 2018

El trabajo presenta estudio empírico sobre el efecto de los recursos financieros en los resultados electorales. En Brasil, debido a que es un país de grandes extensiones y heterogeneidad económica, política y social en los distritos electorales, las comparaciones directas son difíciles. Se parte del princpio de que los recursos de campaña tienen pesos diferentes en función de los niveles de la competición politica y de la riqueza regional. Tenemos la intención de proponer un modelo que permite igualar las diferentes condiciones de campaña para evaluar los impactos de los recursos financieros en las disputas. Para ello, hemos utilizado los datos sobre las elecciones de 2010 para diputado federal.
Brasil, ¿potencia o aporía del Desarrollo?
Authors: Cavalcanti Vanessa , Silva Antonio Carlos
Published: June 2018

Nuestro propósito es abordar críticamente el papel prominente de Brasil en la configuración de otro orden mundial. Sin embargo, decir que cualquier contribución a la crítica de la Economía Política Internacional no puede ahorrar esfuerzos para enfatizar la paradoja de la modernidad no será sino una justificación sin fundamento para la recuperación de burbujas financieras características de un sistema que fue construido sobre los pilares de la desigualdad y la racionalidad monetaria. Las relaciones de poder están intrínsecamente vinculadas a la apreciación del valor como sujeto automático de la sociedad, y las aspiraciones de Brasil como una potencia mundial dependen de su emancipación de los dictados del mercado mundial y de la superación de la actual fase de la crisis estructural del capital.
Presentación de los Directores
Authors: Santos Pérez José Manuel , Beçak Rubens
Published: June 2018

Texto de presentación del número 2 (volumen 2) de la Revista de Estudios Brasileños.
La construcción de lo Público y la visión poética de la Democracia en Brasil: un análisis de A Flor e a Náusea
Authors: Freitas Do Nascimento Rosa Maria , Silva Acioly Carina Laís
Published: June 2018

En el mundo, Segunda Guerra Mundial. En Brasil, dictadura de Vargas. Impulsado por esa realidad, Carlos Drummond de Andrade publica, en 1945, A rosa do povo, el mayor de todos sus libros, con cincuenta y cinco poemas. En la obra se percibe nítidamente el realismo social. Enfrentando la poesía de Drummond con la obra Raízes do Brasil, publicada en 1936, Sérgio Buarque de Holanda intenta, a través del análisis de nuestro pasado, predecir nuestro futuro. La obra es un análisis de la sociedad brasileña y del surgimiento de nuestras estructuras económicas y políticas. Un análisis innovador que apunta los conceptos de burocracia y patrimonialismo en nuestra cultura. Sérgio buscó en el periodo colonial las raíces de los problemas a los que se enfrenta el Brasil contemporáneo. Describió al brasileño como un “hombre cordial”, o sea, que actúa por sentimientos, prefiriendo las relaciones personales al cumplimiento de leyes objetivas. La “cultura de la personalidad” tratada por Sérgio nos habla de una laxitud de los lazos sociales que resulta en formas de organización solidaria y ordenada. Para Buarque, la colonización brasileña fue promovida por la cultura aventurera de los portugueses, que niega la estabilidad y la planificación y apoya la práctica del ocio. Así, a partir de los textos de Drummond y Buarque analizamos la sociedad brasileña desde un punto de vista político y moral, confrontando sus características históricas con la actualidad.
Public perception and acceptance of ornamental pineapple hybrids
Authors: Pereira Gabriela Navarro Donato , Souza Everton Hilo de , Souza José Da Silva , Souza Fernanda Vidigal Duarte
Published: June 2018

Ornamental pineapple varieties are promising alternatives for the cut flower, potted plant and landscaping segments. New hybrids from the genetic improvement program of Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura (Embrapa Cassava and Fruits research unit) are being launched for these purposes. The objective of this work was to evaluate the acceptance and preference of consumers regarding the esthetics and prices of potted plants, floral stems and other products originating from ornamental pineapple plants. A survey was conducted at the 15th International Fair of Landscaping, Gardening, Leisure and Floriculture (Fiaflora Expo Garden) in the city of São Paulo. Individual interviews were conducted with 205 people, who answered a questionnaire in a random and voluntary manner, considering the following aspects: gender, age group, origin, profession, flowers of interest, acceptance of cut stems (including in the budding stage), potted plants and mini-fruits and amounts they would pay for these items. The results showed excellent acceptance by the public for cut stems (infructescence or budding stage), potted plants and mini-fruits. Most of the respondents were women, aged between 40 and 50 years, involved in landscaping and from the Southeast region of Brazil. The suggested prices for stems ranged from R$ 3.01 to R$ 10.00 and for potted plants the prices were above R$ 20.00.
Impact of Pre-Service Teachers on P-5 Student Learning: Results of Unit Instructions
Authors: Lu Hsiu-Lien , Arrington Nancy M. , Griffin Bryan W.
Published: June 2018

This quantitative study utilized 1,640 P-5 students’ learning outcomes as a result of unit instructions that pre-service teachers gave to P-5 students in the field. The study investigated the difference in P-5 student learning outcomes after a unit instruction by three practicum course tiers, considering socioeconomic statuses, student grade levels, and subject areas of the content taught by the pre-service teacher. Using normalized gain scores, we used a t test and regression tests to analyze the data. Based on the findings, recommendations for pre-service teacher education include three items: a) to provide differentiated supervision based on pre-service teachers’ experiences and needs, b) to require a proportionate and incremental assignment responding to the amount of pre-service teachers’ experiences and hours in the classroom, and c) to incorporate co-teaching opportunities to facilitate peer learning and support in early field experiences.
Content Area Pre-Service Candidates Learning Language Teaching with Adolescent Immigrants in an Urban PDS Middle School
Authors: Fan Yanan
Published: June 2018

How do teacher candidates develop and reflect on their knowledge in second language literacy to support their students in a Professional Development School (PDS)? This article reports preliminary findings of a qualitative study that investigates the learning process of single-subject credential candidates in a pilot urban PDS site where they co-taught and co-learned in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program through an on-site seminar credential class.  Data collection included, but not limited to, researcher observational fieldnotes, candidate reflections, term papers, and transcripts of interviews and performances. The study finds that in an interactive, social learning space created by the PDS setting, teacher candidates challenged their assumptions about teaching English among immigrant students, as well as identified language learning opportunities in traditional worksheet-based activities and a communicative project.
Embracing Vulnerability and Risk in the Classroom: The Four-Folder Approach to Discussion-Based Community Learning
Authors: Ozment Elizabeth Whittenburg
Published: June 2018

In recognition of various power systems within and surrounding their classrooms, US women’s studies instructors have for several decades worked to reconfigure the college classroom as an environment that enables all students to testify, thus creating empowered communities and ultimately inspiring the next generation of leaders. As some of the most repeated mantras of feminist pedagogy, these educational goals embody the liberating power of feminist theory and practice. The pedagogical practices employed in attaining these goals typically value experiential knowledge and encourage students to be attuned to various forms of speech and knowledge construction, which are framed through a politics of power and difference. As part of an ongoing conversation about the perils of cooperative learning, independent problem-solving, and peer leadership in higher education, this reflective essay describes one strategy, which I call the four-folder system. This instructional strategy troubles the promises of safety and implied instructor surveillance that so many feminist instructors adhere to, while simultaneously creating a multi-vocal learning environment. The techniques and rationale described may be applied to a range of courses and are not necessarily bound to introductory women’s studies surveys. I propose that given favorable conditions, embracing vulnerability and risk in the classroom better frees our students from the confines of conventional pedagogies used in higher education.
Perceptions of Integrated Experiential Learning of Graduate Marketing Students
Authors: Gundala Raghava R , Singh Mandeep , Cochran T. Kathleen
Published: June 2018

Experiential learning projects have become a mainstay of a multitude of undergraduate business courses as they allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world issues. At the graduate level, the use of case studies is a primary teaching method, but one cannot fail to notice an increase in the interest and use of experiential learning projects and assignments. However, as more emphasis is placed on the practical application of theory across the marketing curricula, buttressed by accrediting agencies, the need for incorporating these experiential learning projects has become an integral part of many university curricula at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. While the inclusion of these projects has been in practice for some time, the ideal addition to these experiential elements is restricted to a single course. This study examines the impact of including an experiential learning project that was framed across two graduate courses for an individual client. This study adds to the existing knowledge by using a unique integrative approach, across two separate graduate marketing courses, providing students with a progressive real world experience over an extended period of consulting interaction and time. Student perceptions associated with the efficacy of this extended experiential learning exercise are also furnished.
Perspectives on Aging among Graduate Social Work Students: Using Photographs as an Online Pedagogical Activity
Authors: Chonody Jill
Published: June 2018

The United States is experiencing an aging of the population, and by 2030, 20% of Americans will be 65 years or older (Federal Interagency Forum, 2010). However, for many helping professions, including social work, medicine, and nursing, student interest in gerontological practice is quite low. One international study found that only 5.4% of the more than 1,000 social work students who were surveyed indicated that working with older people was their primary area of interest (Author, 2014a). Finding ways to improve student interest and break down biases against older adults is essential to improve student interest, and incorporating evidence-based activities that can be incorporated into courses that are offered in an online format are increasingly needed as this mode of instruction continues to expand. The current exploratory study sought to pilot a two-part photo-activity in an online graduate social work practice course focused on working with older adults. Quantitative and qualitative results suggest that the activities helped students’ process their views on aging and older people, and most students reported at least some change in their attitudes. The development of innovative ways to engage students online by repurposing technology that they are already using can advance online pedagogy and facilitate critical thinking.
Für eine neue Kultur der Mobilität
Authors: Hermann Winfried
Published: June 2018

Für die Verkehrswende brauchen wir neue Wege nachhaltiger Mobilität: alternative Antriebe undKraftstoffe, effiziente und vernetzte Technologien, aber auch klare politische Leitbilder, angepassteInstrumente und Bewegung im Habitus, also eine neue Kultur der Mobilität.
Mobilitätsoptionen in ländlichen Räumen
Authors: Schlump Christian
Published: June 2018

Die Mobilität in Deutschland befindet sich in einer Umbruchphase. In Großstädten wirddas eigene Auto für jüngere Menschen immer unattraktiver und der Fahrradverkehr steigt an.Doch welche Wege geht die Verkehrswende auf dem Land?
Kybernetische Governance als Planwirtschaft 2.0?
Authors: Petschow Ulrich
Published: June 2018

Eine gesellschaftliche Transformation setzt eine neue Form des Wirtschaftens voraus.Wie diese Wirtschaftsweise aussehen kann, wird zunehmend von den unterschiedlichen Aspektender Digitalisierung beeinflusst. Aufgrund des disruptiven Charakters der Digitalisierungwird zunehmend über eine Neuinterpretation von Planung und Planwirtschaft diskutiert.
Die Kunst der zweiten Natur und die andere Natur der Kunst
Authors: Khurana Thomas
Published: June 2018

This contribution traces an aesthetic shift in the concept of second nature that occurs around 1800 and raises the question as to what role art might play in a culture that already conceives of itself in generally aesthetic terms. The paper recalls Kant’s rejection of habit as a proper realization of ethical life and shows that in his third critique, Kant proposes a second nature of a different kind. To realize ethical life as a “second (supersensible) nature”, we cannot confine ourselves to mere habituation but require a different type of second nature that is exemplified by the work of art. The paper asks what role art may adopt in an aestheticised culture arising from the success of such an aesthetic understanding in the wake of Kant, from Schiller through to Nietzsche. It argues that art redefines its role by taking not first nature but the second nature of ethical life as its main point of reference. Art thus reconceives itself as a self-reflection of our second nature. The paper discusses three models of such self-reflection: the aesthetic estrangement, the beautiful completion, and the dialectical renegotiation of our second nature.
Functional interrelationships between the kallikrein-related peptidases family and the classical kinin system in the human neutrophil
Authors: Ehrenfeld Pamela , Bhoola Kanti D. , Matus Carola E. , Figueroa Carlos D.
Published: June 2018

In the human neutrophil, kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) have a significant functional relationship with the classical kinin system as a kinin B1 receptor agonist induces secretion of KLK1, KLK6, KLK10, KLK13 and KLK14 into the medium. Secretion of KLK1, the kinin-forming enzyme, may perpetuate formation of kinin in the inflammatory milieu by hydrolyzing extravasated kininogens present in tissue edema. Secretion of KLKs into the inflammatory milieu, induced by kinins or other proinflammatory mediators, provides the human neutrophil with a wide range of molecular interactions to hydrolyze different cellular and extracellular matrix components, which may be of critical relevance in different mechanisms involving inflammation.
Kallikrein-related peptidase 5 and seasonal influenza viruses, limitations of the experimental models for activating proteases
Authors: Magnen Mélia , Elsässer Brigitta Margit , Zbodakova Olga , Kasparek Petr , Gueugnon Fabien , Petit-Courty Agnès , Sedlacek Radislav , Goettig Peter , Courty Yves
Published: June 2018

Every year, influenza A virus (IAV) affects and kills many people worldwide. The viral hemagglutinin (HA) is a critical actor in influenza virus infectivity which needs to be cleaved by host serine proteases to exert its activity. KLK5 has been identified as an activating protease in humans with a preference for the H3N2 IAV subtype. We investigated the origin of this preference using influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (PR8, H1N1) and A/Scotland/20/74 (Scotland, H3N2) viruses. Pretreatment of noninfectious virions with human KLK5 increased infectivity of Scotland IAV in MDCK cells and triggered influenza pneumonia in mice. These effects were not observed with the PR8 IAV. Molecular modeling and in vitro enzymatic studies of peptide substrates and recombinant HAs revealed that the sequences around the cleavage site do not represent the sole determinant of the KLK5 preference for the H3N2 subtype. Using mouse Klk5 and Klk5-deficient mice, we demonstrated in vitro and in vivo that the mouse ortholog protease is not an IAV activating enzyme. This may be explained by unfavorable interactions between H3 HA and mKlk5. Our data highlight the limitations of some approaches used to identify IAV-activating proteases.