bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving sepsis care to the front line: knowledge and views of pre-hospital clinicians
Authors: Roebuck Elizabeth
Published: November 2015

Background:

Previous in-hospital studies have highlighted the opportunity pre-hospital clinicians have to recognise sepsis at an early stage. Left untreated, mortality in septic shock increases rapidly. Sepsis screening tools have been developed to assist recognition; however, current knowledge of sepsis, effectiveness of previous training and attitudes towards implementation of a screening tool is unknown.

Methods:

A survey was emailed to 529 paramedics and 131 advanced technicians in the North of England to determine their current knowledge of sepsis, views around previous training and the use of a screening tool. Case studies were included to investigate current management of patients with history of infection.

Results:

144 clinicians completed the survey, gaining a 21.8% response rate. 54% (95% CI 46%, 62%) of clinicians felt like they had good knowledge, leaving 46% of clinicians feeling a lack of knowledge. 94% (95% CI 89%, 97%) thought emergency departments should treat sepsis immediately or within the first hour. Case studies highlighted variability in the management pathways chosen and 98% (95% CI 94%, 99%) of clinicians required further training. 97% (95% CI 92%, 99%) agreed a screening tool would assist in the identification of septic patients and 98% (95% CI 95%, 99%) would use the tool.

Conclusions:

Severity level and importance of quick recognition and management are acknowledged among clinicians. Although response rate is a limitation of this study, knowledge levels differentiate greatly among the cohort and nearly all state they require further education. Clinicians agreed a screening tool would help identify septic patients and would use it alongside clinical acumen.
Can paramedics treat sepsis?
Authors: Pike John , Wood Bartholomew , Theminimulle Sandya , Cumming Debbie , Lawal-Rieley Thomas , Ballington Joanne , Moody Shane , Andrews Robert
Published: November 2015

Background:

Sepsis is the most common time-critical medical emergency attended by UK paramedics but lacks the pre-hospital treatment options available for other common conditions. Sepsis treatment is simple, effective and quick to deliver and frontline paramedics may be able to significantly improve patient outcomes if empowered to recognise and treat sepsis.

Methods:

The Isle of Wight (IOW) Pre-hospital Piperacillin/Tazobactam (PrePip) project tested the concept that paramedics could accurately recognise and safely treat sepsis in the pre-hospital environment. By selecting two high-risk patient groups and developing new patient group directives and protocols for paramedic antibiotic delivery IOW sepsis treatment was radically altered to focus on early pre-hospital care.

Results:

The project showed that paramedics were highly effective in recognising sepsis in clearly defined patient groups with their diagnosis of sepsis being corroborated by in-patient consultants in 93% of cases. Paramedic-delivered interventions such as collection of blood cultures and administration of IV fluid and broad-spectrum IV antibiotics were shown to be both safe and timely.

Conclusions:

This project suggests that a new ‘call-to-needle’ paradigm of sepsis treatment may be possible, with UK paramedics providing key elements of the Sepsis Six before reaching the emergency department. This may have significant implications for restructuring sepsis services.
Quality Characteristics of Frozen Beef Developed into Home Meal Replacement Products Under Various Storage Conditions
Authors: Lee SangYoon , Kim Kwang-Il , Hwang In-Guk , Yu Seon-Mi , Min Sang-Gi , Choi Mi-Jung
Published: November 2015

Blanching and freezing of beef are important techniques used in developing frozen home meal replacement (HMR) products. These pre-thermal treatments minimize the deterioration of beef during storage. Beefs are washed, defatted, sliced (5.0×0.5×0.5 cm, fiber direction), and blanched by immersion in hot water for 2 min. Thereafter, the blanched beefs are spin-dried and frozen by individual quick freezing (IQF) method. Finally, the frozen beefs are packed using two methods: vacuum packages and air-containing packages. Packed beefs are stored at -12°C, -18°C, and -24°C for nine months. One in every three months, they are thawed in a microwave (400W). While thawing, vacuum- packed samples possess lower thawing loss than air-containing-packed ones. Compared to raw beef, blanched beef have a higher L* and lower a* value. However, less changes are observed after blanching the beefs as the enzymes get inactivated in the blanching process. Shear force of beef also increase through blanching. Moreover, vacuum-packed samples have maintained their hardness to a greater extent than the air-containing-packed samples. All the samples have met microbial safety standards. Thus, it is inferred that vacuum-packaging and -18°C storage temperatures are the best condition for maintaining beef that is later developed into HMR product.
Application of chitosan spraying on acclimatization success of tiger orchid (Grammatophyllum scriptum) plantlets
Authors: PITOYO ARI , HANI MUTIA RIZKA , ANGGARWULAN ENDANG
Published: November 2015

Pitoyo A, Hani MR, Anggarwulan E. 2015.Application of chitosan spraying on acclimatization success of tiger orchid(Grammatophyllum scriptum) plantlets. Nusantara Bioscience 7: 185-191. In Indonesia, tiger orchid or anggrek macan(Grammatophyllum scriptum) is one of the orchid species that have been mass propagatedwith in vitro culture technique. Thesuccessful determinant of in vitro culture after planlet formation is acclimatization.Plantlet have faced with absolutely differentenvironmental condition between inside and outside bottle that potentially severe the survival of theplantlet.The objectives of thisresearch were to know theeffect of chitosan for success of chitosan spraying inacclimatization ofplantlets ofG. scriptumand to knowthe optimum concentration of chitosan that can help thesuccessful of the acclimatization of plantletsG. scriptum.This research used aCompletely Randomized Design (CRD) with four level concentrations of chitosan spraying, there were 0 g/L; 0,5 g/L; 0,75 g/L;1 g/L.Every treatment underwent 15 repetitions. The data taken on this research were qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data wasgot from observation of morphology and anatomy then it was analyzed descriptively. The quantitative data was got from percentage ofplantlets life, observation ofshoot length, leaves length, leaves width, number of leaves, number of shoot, index and density of stomatal.The quantitative data was analyzed byAnalysis of Variance (ANOVA), if there was a significant difference between treatment groupsthen followed byDuncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at level significanceof5 %. The result of thisobservation indicated that theeffect of chitosanwassignificant on several parameters including width leaf,plantlets height,and stomatal index while the length andnumber of leaves were not significantly different. The concentration of chitosan real effected on these ranged from 0.5-0.75 g/L.Chitosan concentration at above of 0,75 g/L showed a negative influence on theacclimatization successfully ofplantletsG. scriptum.
UMA NOVA VISÃO DAS COMPETÊNCIAS DE GESTÃO CONSTRUÍDAS EM SIMULADORES DE NEGÓCIOS
Authors: Schlatter Gabriel Vianna , Behar Patricia Alejandra , Reategui Eliseo Berni
Published: November 2015

Este artigo apresenta uma pesquisa realizada com usuários de um simulador de negócios online, em um curso superior de Administração de Empresas. Pesquisas anteriores, sobre o uso de simuladores de negócios, descreveram a validade deste recurso como método de desenvolvimento de habilidades gerenciais, bem como as percepções dos alunos sobre a vivência da qual participaram.  Entretanto, há um número reduzido de pesquisas que procuraram avaliar diretamente quais competências de gestão são construídas quando do uso de simuladores.  No presente estudo, os alunos manifestaram sua percepção a respeito das competências de gestão que foram desenvolvidas por participarem da simulação. A avaliação foi estruturada de acordo com as macro-competências propostas pelo Projeto Tuning América Latina, tendo-se identificado aquelas com maior e menor desenvolvimento percebido. Constatou-se que a simulação ajudou a construir competências relacionadas ao uso de informações para suportar a tomada de decisões, à gestão dos recursos da empresa no nível operacional e a identificação e administração dos riscos do negócio.  Além disso, foi possível determinar, com base em uma análise fatorial, que a construção de várias competências ocorreu de forma simultânea, compondo conjuntos mais elaborados. Cinco conjuntos, compostos por várias competências, foram identificados e descritos como a capacidade de empreender com base em dados e fatos, de administrar processos e projetos da organização, de desenvolver seu próprio processo de planejamento, de agir prioritariamente com responsabilidade social e de trabalhar em equipe para administrar os riscos da mudança.
A Delphi Study on Staff Bereavement Training in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Field
Authors: Gray Jennifer A. , Truesdale Jesslyn
Published: November 2015

The Delphi technique was used to obtain expert panel consensus to prioritize content areas and delivery methods for developing staff grief and bereavement curriculum training in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) field. The Delphi technique was conducted with a panel of 18 experts from formal and informal disability caregiving, nursing, and hospice and bereavement service provision. Results showed that training should help staff identify and support service users experiencing grief. Importantly, staff also needs help in managing their own grief. Organizational policies and resources should be instituted to support the grief processes of both service users and staff. Practice-based applications are discussed, and research implications are presented for training evaluation.
The Learning of Difficult Visual Discriminations by the Moderately and Severely Retarded
Authors: Gold Marc W. , Barclay Craig R.
Published: November 2015

A procedure to effectively and efficiently train moderately and severely retarded individuals to make fine visual discriminations is described. Results suggest that expectancies for such individuals are in need of examination. Implications for sheltered workshops, work activity centers and classrooms are discussed.
In Vitro Study of Light Radiation Penetration Through Dentin, According to the Wavelength
Authors: Dogandzhiyska Violeta , Angelov I. , Dimitrov Sl. , Uzunov Ts.
Published: November 2015

Based on their biological, analgesic and antibacterial effect, lasers are becoming more widely used in clinical practice in the recent years. In order to obtain a therapeutic effect and to prevent dental pulp alteration in the treatment of hard tooth tissue, the parameters of laser radiation should be precisely controlled. Upon irradiation of dental pulp, these effects are dependent on the permeability of light through the enamel and dentin. The purpose of our study was to examine the penetration of light through dentin, according to the wavelength.The absorption of light was also studied. For the aim of our investigation 30 dentin samples with thickness 1 mm of extracted human teeth (premolars and molars) were prepared. The absorption and transmission of light in the range 350-1000 nm in its passage through the samples were studied using a spectrophotometer Ocean Optics QE65000. The obtained results showed that the light absorption of dentin in spectral range 350-600 nm depends on the wavelength. When light sources, emitting in the wavelength range above 600 nm were used, the dependence was low. These features should be taken into account in the choice of irradiation wavelength and a light source.
Frequency of Iatrogenic Changes Caused from Overhang Restorations
Authors: Boteva E. , Karayasheva D. , Peycheva K.
Published: November 2015

Overhangs from different restorations are an iatrogenic error with different results, short and long term consequences related to bone changes and periodontal diseases. Amalgam “tattoos”, idiopathic subgingival hypertrophy, marginal periodontitis and bone reductions in the intradental septum are major problems. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the frequency of traumatic restorations in distal teeth and clinical criteria, related to the x-ray findings. Evaluating criteria, for repairing the overhangs or for replacement of the restorations, is also a goal. Three hundred and sixteen - 316 patients from both sexes, 632 dental x-rays with 948 distal teeth and 632 restorations, at least two radiographs for each patient, were analyzed. Overhangs are classified in three groups: small, middle and large. In the criteria bone changes from the overhangs are analyzed separately from the existing or nonexisting bone changes from a generalized periodontal diseases. The frequency of iatrogenic changes in this cohort group is 10.6% from 632 restored teeth. This is a relatively small number compared with the other published studies. These overhangs are on distal teeth in sound teeth arches which makes them difficult for corrections. The evaluated criteria for replacement based on x-ray findings and clinical experience includes: operative and nonoperative corrections, restoration replacement, perio- and endo-therapy and follow up terms for secondary caries.
Experimental Study of the Laser-Induced Oxyhemoglobin Photodissociation in Cutaneous Blood Vessels
Authors: Gisbrecht Alexander , Mamilov S.
Published: November 2015

A new optical method for reduction of local tissue hypoxia is proposed. It is shown that this method of phototherapy allows the control of a local oxygen concentration in tissue. Different aspects of biomedical application of this phenomenon are discussed. The results of in vivo experimental investigation of the laser-induced photodissociation of oxyhemoglobin in cutaneous blood vessels and its role in tissue oxygenation are presented. The rates of oxygen saturation SpO2 in blood and their dependence on the wavelength of the transcutaneous laser irradiation have been experimentally measured.
Serum and Urine Copper – Contamination and Stability
Authors: Dimitrova Ivanova I. , Atanasova B. , Dragneva S. , Vladimirova L. , Krastev Z. , Kostadinova A. , Ivanova A. , Tzatchev K.
Published: November 2015

Pre-analytical factors of variation need to be carefully considered and investigated in efforts to harmonize all aspects of the total testing process. This study aimed to evaluate contamination and stability in copper (Cu) analysis of serum and urine by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS) and to compare the stability of urine Cu in controls and in D-penicillamine (D-PA) administration. Cu was measured by AAnalyst 400, Perkin Elmer, USA. Blood was collected in BD Vacutainer®SSTTM II Advance tubes and BD Vacutainer® Trace Element tubes. Sterile polyethylene and polypropylene vessels for collection, transportation, storage and preliminary preparation of samples were used in urinalysis. Stability in serum and 24 h urine was evaluated in two temperature regimens: 15-25°C and 2-8°C, for particular time of storage. No significant differences (p = 0.20) in Cu concentration was found between the two types of tested tubes with patient`s sera. The stability of the samples (serum and urine) was better at refrigeration temperature. In urine the stability was better in D-PA administration.Standardization of Cu analysis could be achieved by assessing the aspects of pre-analytical factors of variations.
Prevalence and Perceptions Toward Anabolicandrogenic Steroid Use Amongst University Students
Authors: Kargarfard M. , Shariat A. , Lam E. , Shaw B. , Shaw I. , Shariat A. , Nayyeri Fereshteh
Published: November 2015

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are highly sought-after in order to achieve muscle growth and better physical attributes. The study was conducted to measure the prevalence and attitudes towards the use of AASs among university students. 1008 male students from Isfahan University, Iran, between the ages of 18 and 25 years (23.3 ± 1.2 years) completed a questionnaire that investigated participation in bodybuilding, level of sport competition, participation in sports and recreational activities, AASs use, prevalence, knowledge among users, attitudes, as well as intent to continue using AASs in the future. 8% of respondents had used AASs and 6% currently use AASs. 71% of users believed using only a small amount of AASs or using AASs with anti-toxic drugs would not result in any harm, 10% indicated that AASs were harmless and 19% admitted to taking AASs despite knowing the adverse effects. 33% of respondents believed that they needed to use AASs to ensure athletic success and 26% believed that athletes should be allowed to use AASs without consequence. The prevalent use of AASs is a public health concern which implies that educational programmes at university level are needed to educate students about the adverse effects of AASs use
A Review on Motion Correction Methods in Pet/Ct Images for Detection of Cancer Cells
Authors: Nayyeri F.
Published: November 2015

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is an important cancer imaging tool, both for diagnosing and staging, as well as offering predictive information based on response. PET is a nuclear medicine imaging technique which produces a three-dimensional image of functional processes in the body. While PET is commonly used to detect the tumors, especially in breast, colon, lung and for lymphoma, as well in the last decade it is verified as considerably more accurate than Computed Tomography (CT) in the distinction between benign and malignant lesions. PET is not only more accurate than conventional imaging for the assessment of therapy response, but also it is useful to detect some viable tumor cells after treatment. However, motion is a source of artifacts in the medical imaging and results in reducing the quantitative and qualitative accuracy of the image. In general during the procedure of PET scanning, a few types of motion can occur that should be corrected and compensated. Different body motions are classified as brain motion, cardiac motion and respiratory motion. In this study, some of the most important motion correction and compensation methods using PET imaging system are compared.
Cultivating Desmodesmus armatus (Chod.) Hegew. in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) waste water
Authors: Cheban Larisa , Malischuk Irina , Marchenko Mykhailo
Published: November 2015

The possibility of using RAS waste water as a cultivation medium for Desmodesmus armatus (Chod.) Hegew. was investigated. Algal biomass increased continuously reaching its maximum on the day 40 of cultivation. D. armatus culture was characterized by a maximum content of total proteins of 23% on day 40 of cultivation. At the same time, 17 proteinogenic amino acids, including 9 replaceable and 8 essential acids, were detected and identified in D. armatus biomass. Among these amino acids, maximum contents of asparagine and glutamine were noted. A gradual increase in the number of total photosynthetic pigments until day 40 of cultivation was also observed. On day 40, the content of chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoids in D. armatus cells was maximal at 11.17, 7.07, and 12.05 mg g-1 dry weight, respectively. Therefore, cultivating microalgae D. armatus in RAS waste water permits obtaining an active growing culture that is characterized by a constant increase of biomass and high nutrient contents.
Reproductive biology of Caspian vimba, Vimba vimba (L.), in the coastal waters of the southwestern Caspian Sea
Authors: J. Imanpour Namin F. Tari , Shahram Abdolmalaki , Hadavi M.
Published: November 2015

The reproduction biology of Caspian vimba, Vimba vimba (L.), was investigated on the southwestern coast of the Caspian Sea using 712 fish specimens collected at three fisheries catch stations located in Talesh, Anzali, and Kiashahr over a two-year period from April 2012 through June 2013. Seasonal changes in the gonadosomatic index, gonad histological status, size frequency distribution of oocytes, and the fecundity of the species were studied. The peaks of the gonadosomatic index (GSI) were observed both in females and males in June 2012 and May 2013 indicating the variable peak spawning time of this species. Histological examinations and oocyte frequency distribution patterns showed synchronous oocyte development in the Caspian vimba. Absolute fecundity ranged from 5873 to 35421 eggs. The size at first maturity for females was 120 mm FL. We concluded that the Caspian vimba is a total spawner with variable spawning dependent on environmental factors.
Anatomical characteristics of two Ornithogalum L. (Hyacinthaceae) taxa from Serbia and Hungary and their taxonomic implication
Authors: Andrić Andrijana M. , Rat Milica M. , Zorić Lana N. , Luković Jadranka Ž.
Published: November 2015

Anatomical characters of two morphologically similar Ornithogalum taxa, O. umbellatum and O. divergens, were investigated. An analysis of leaf and scapus cross-sections was performed on plants from ten populations from Serbia and Hungary, using light microscopy. The aim of this research was to give data about the qualitative and quantitative anatomical characteristics of these taxa, in order to evaluate their taxonomic significance and single out distinctive anatomical features, as well as to contribute to the knowledge of the genus Ornithogalum in the studied region. On the basis of the variability of anatomical characters, similar populations formed two clusters, joining the plants previously determined as O. divergens and O. umbellatum. The two taxa significantly differed for most of the quantitative leaf and scapus characters. Since only quantitative differences were recorded in this research, anatomical characters could not be solely used to separate these two taxa. However, the results of anatomical investigations are consistent with the results of previous morphological and genetic analyses; therefore anatomical parameters could be useful as additional taxonomic characters.
Alyssum desertorum Stapf (Brassicaceae), new for the Italian flora
Authors: Bartolucci Fabrizio , Conti Fabio
Published: November 2015

The occurrence of Alyssum desertorum, a species belonging to A. sect. Alyssum, is reported for the first time in Italy. It was found in Abruzzo (central Italy) in the territory of National Park of Gran Sasso and Laga mountains and surrounding areas. Morphological similarities with the other taxa recorded in Italy belonging to A. sect. Alyssum are briefly discussed. Information about the typification of the name, habitat, phenology and distribution in Italy are also provided.
Modeling Workflow Systems Constrained by Inputs and Outputs − An Approach Based on Petri Nets
Authors: Zheng Changyou , Yao Yi , Huang Song , Ren Zhengping
Published: November 2015

Workflow systems are widely used in our daily life so that the validity, dependability and security with which they need to be assured are important. However, existing researches mainly focus on correctness validation, performance analysis and assignment scheduling, but the testing methods have been seldom suited. In this paper a formalized definition of workflows constrained by an input and output is presented, and based on that, a Petri Net-based model (I/O_WF_Net) is proposed. In I/O_WF_Net, the activities of the workflow can be modeled as transitions of a Petri Net, and the inputs and outputs of an activity can be modeled as places. After the modeling method for I/O constrained workflow net into the I/O_WF_Net model is described, the corresponding transforming algorithm and its simplifying method are given.
High-Order Markov Random Fields and Their Applications in Cross-Language Speech Recognition
Authors: Zhipeng Jiang , Chengwei Huang
Published: November 2015

In this paper we study the cross-language speech emotion recognition using high-order Markov random fields, especially the application in Vietnamese speech emotion recognition. First, we extract the basic speech features including pitch frequency, formant frequency and short-term intensity. Based on the low level descriptor we further construct the statistic features including maximum, minimum, mean and standard deviation. Second, we adopt the high-order Markov random fields (MRF) to optimize the cross-language speech emotion model. The dimensional restrictions may be modeled by MRF. Third, based on the Vietnamese and Chinese database we analyze the efficiency of our emotion recognition system. We adopt the dimensional emotion model (arousal-valence) to verify the efficiency of MRF configuration method. The experimental results show that the high-order Markov random fields can improve the dimensional emotion recognition in the cross-language experiments, and the configuration method shows promising robustness over different languages.
Text Mining and Big Data Analytics for Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Texts from Outpatient Care
Authors: Boytcheva Svetla , Angelova Galia , Angelov Zhivko , Tcharaktchiev Dimitar
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the results of an on-going research project for knowledge extraction from large corpora of clinical narratives in Bulgarian language, approximately 100 million of outpatient care notes. Entities with numerical values are mined in the free text and the extracted information is stored in a structured format. The Algorithms for retrospective analyses and big data analytics are applied for studying the treatment and evaluating the diabetes compensation and control of arterial blood pressure.
Modeling and Topological Properties of a V2I Sub Network in VANET Based on a Complex Network
Authors: Zhang Hong , He Li
Published: November 2015

Vehicles to Infrastructure (V2I) communicate with each other in a Vehicular Ad hoc NETwork (VANET) that can be represented as a complex network. In them much interest has been attracted towards the topological properties and structure recently, and many studies focus the attention on it, in particular V2I sub network. V2I is an important basic part of the future intelligent transportation, which transfers information through a wireless communication network. Analyzing the topological properties would help understand the VANET system structure and reveal the essence of the network. In this paper we propose a V2I model in VANET based on the complex network theory, analyzing the degree distribution. VANET topology characteristics are designed and discussed. The simulation results further illustrate the efficiency and applicability of the proposed approach.
Analysis of oligonucleotides by liquid chromatography with alkylamide stationary phase
Authors: Buszewski Bogusław , Safaei Zahra , Studzińska Sylwia
Published: November 2015

The main aim of the present investigation was to determine retention behavior and interactions of oligonucleotides with alkylamide stationary phase. Five oligonucleotides, differing in the sequence, were tested. Changes in the composition of the mobile phase, i.e. pH (5.0−7.0) and buffer concentration (30−75 mM) were investigated in detail. In addition, the hydrophobic and electrostatic parameters were measured for the different pH’s and salt concentrations. The theoretical model of interactions between individual elements of the separation system, (e.g. solute, stationary phase, and mobile phase) based on zeta potential measurements, hydrophobic and electrostatic parameters calculation, and molecular modeling, has been considered.
Prevention of degradation of γ-irradiated EPDM using phenolic antioxidants
Authors: Zaharescu Traian , Zen Heloísa A. , Marinescu Mădălina , Scagliusi Sandra R. , Cardoso Elisabeth C. L. , Lugão Ademar B.
Published: November 2015

The mitigation of oxidative degradation under
Tannins analysis from different medicinal plants extracts using MALDI-TOF and MEKC
Authors: Matei Alina Oana , Gatea Florentina , Teodor Eugenia Dumitra , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: November 2015

The matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) methods were used to identify and quantify five tannins, (+)-catechin, (–)-epigallocatechin, (–)-epigallocatechin gallate, (–)-epicatechin gallate and (–)-epicatechin, from aqueous, ethanolic and acetonic extracts of
Synthesis of Fe3O4–Ag nanocomposites and their application to enzymeless hydrogen peroxide detection
Authors: Qi Cheng-Cheng , Zheng Jian-Bin
Published: November 2015

To achieve highly sensitive nonenzymatic detection of H
Proteasomes raise the microtubule dynamics in influenza A (H1N1) virus-infected LLC-MK2 cells
Authors: Conto Flora De , Chezzi Carlo , Fazzi Alessandra , Razin Sergey V. , Arcangeletti Maria Cristina , Medici Maria Cristina , Gatti Rita , Calderaro Adriana
Published: November 2015

The dynamics of microtubule networks are known to have an impact on replication of influenza A virus in some cellular models. Here we present evidence suggesting that at late stages of LLC-MK2 cell infection by influenza A (H1N1) virus the ubiquitin-proteasome protein degradation system participates in destabilization of microtubules, and favours virus replication. Chemical inhibition of proteasome activity partially suppresses influenza A virus replication, while stimulation of proteasome activity favours influenza A virus replication. Conversely, in another cellular model, A549 cells, inhibitors and activators of proteasomes have a small effect on influenza A virus replication. These data suggest that influenza A virus might take selective advantage of proteasome functions in order to set up a favourable cytoskeletal “environment” for its replication and spread. Furthermore, the relationship between influenza virus and the host cell is likely to depend on both the cellular model and the virus strain.
Some remarks concerning Voevodsky’s nilpotence conjecture
Authors: Bernardara Marcello , Marcolli Matilde , Tabuada Gonçalo
Published: November 2015

In this article we extend Voevodsky’s nilpotence conjecture from smooth projective schemes to the broader setting of smooth proper dg categories. Making use of this noncommutative generalization, we then address Voevodsky’s original conjecture in the following cases: quadric fibrations, intersection of quadrics, linear sections of Grassmannians, linear sections of determinantal varieties, homological projective duals, and Moishezon manifolds.
Understanding the Post-Socialist Experience Across Generations
Authors: Deák Dušan
Published: November 2015

The paper discusses transmission of the historical memories of the comparatively recent past across generations in Slovakia. It introduces the Slovak debate on the recent and difficult pasts, explains the basic theoretical stances, moves on to introduce the regions of the research and the methodology used and finally gives voice to young and older respondents whose information is commented and analyzed. The paper hopes to provide insights into the processes of memory transmission and past construction. As well, by using numerous quotes from the informants, it hopes to illustrate and substantiate the claim about the defects of the debates among the people of current post-socialist era in Slovakia.
A School That Forms? A Look at the Years of the Communist Regime and the Present
Authors: Neupauer František
Published: November 2015

Based on personal experience of students and use of archives, the study shows how totalitarian ideology of communist regime influenced students and aimed at socialization of villages - collectivization. Real examples imply various questions in relation to the past and the future: How should teachers influence students nowadays? Should history classes focus on historical facts, or should they form students and their values?
Direct determination of shape functions for isoparametric elements with arbitrary node configuration
Authors: Hoth Julian , Kowalczyk Wojciech
Published: November 2015

Shape functions have been derived to describe different forms of elements, notably triangles and rectangles in 2-D, and tetrahedrons, cuboids, and triangular prisms in 3-D. There are generalised solutions for some regular node configurations, and hierarchical correction algorithms help with more difficult node distributions. But to this point there is no single formula or set of formulae that allows the direct determination of shape functions for any node configuration without restrictions. This paper shows how a general set of formulae can be derived which is applicable to any isoparametric element type with arbitrary node configuration. This formulation is in such a form that it is clear and concise. The approach is based on the Lagrange polynomial considering up to three Cartesian and four volume coordinates. Additionally, the correction procedure that is inherent in the formulation to guarantee an appropriate evaluation of the generalised shape functions and to fulfil all four isoparametric shape function criteria is discussed. The proof of validity illustrates the correctness of the method.
Children’s Upbringing in the Perception of Engaged Couples
Authors: Ruszkiewicz Dorota
Published: November 2015

The period of engagement is vital to discussions on the issues connected with marriage. One of such issues is children’s upbringing. This is why the main problem of this research is found in the question: What are the engaged couples’ views on children’s upbringing? In the research procedure the following problems have been brought to attention: the respondents’ the opinion on the topic of awarding a child with money or other material profits for its fulfilment of the household duties, the respondents’ interest in information on children’s upbringing, the respondents’ ways of acquiring knowledge on upbringing of a child, the respondents’ views on a so-called ‘tight front’ in a child’s upbringing (the same expectation of parents towards their child).
The Importance of Marriage and Family in the Narratives of Adult Children of Divorced Parents
Authors: Piotrowska Maja
Published: November 2015

We live in a world where all the beliefs, passed from one generation to another, all our values are being redefined. Notions of marriage and family also receive different meaning. Today, the term „marriage” extends its meaning, not limiting itself to the naming of „entangled” couples by legal or church law. It also refers to people who consider themselves to be linked with each other, not only by legal terms, people whose relationships are different on various levels from the traditionally understood marriage. However, for generations we have invariably associated the notion of family with love, support, warmth and place of meeting with people important and valuable to us, on who we can count on and expect some help when we need it.

Such an importance given to the family was revealed in my interviews with the adult children of divorced parents. People involved in my research often stressed the great value they associate with this smallest social group. Statements about marriage and family seem to be firmly rooted in the past experiences, which is reflected in their convictions concerning the impermanence of marriage and family systems. On the other hand, one can notice an intense longing for what they could not experience in the past - a stable and happy family. I believe that in the context of the presented narrations one can conclude that the divorce of the parents as the critical life event is strongly written in the identity of „the children of divorce”. It highly influences their attitudes towards marriage, family and relationships in general.
The Evaluation of the Readiness of the child for the Early-school Education in the Context of the Indicators of the School Maturity – the Model of the Mature Child Ready for Education
Authors: Skawina Ireneusz , Markiewicz Elżbieta
Published: November 2015

At a time of successively implemented educational reforms on the level of early-school education, presently concerning the youngest generation of Poles, there is an exquisitely topical question about the school maturity of the contemporary child. Hence, an attempt to turn attention to proper preparing the child for taking the compulsory education is a priority objective of the present article. The attention should be also turned to the essential role in this implementation process for the system and methodological education which is a basic education environment - a family.

Authors, having exploited the expository method as fundamental form of the realization of the established purpose, made an attempt to depict not only a substantial role of the early-school education (by stressing the appropriate intellectual, emotional and social development of the child), but also to define school maturity indicators and determinants. It was also underlined, that the appropriate assessment of the child’s school maturity constituted the essential determinant of his proper functioning in the school environment. Additionally, an attempt was made to depict the model of the mature child ready for the early-school education through indicating factors which determine acceptable readiness. A return to the current issues of imposing compulsory education on 6-year-old children was also made.
Transitions and Threats to Family from the Standpoint of People in Their Thirties
Authors: Marzec Arkadiusz
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study is to present certain aspects connected with transformation of contemporary Polish families and to indicate threats to performing their functions. Systematic, economic, social and cultural transformations have influenced lives of people and families and new opportunities emerged to improve standards of living, change attitudes and lifestyles. Contemporary families are characterized by varied structure and dominance of non-productive families formed primarily on non-economic grounds, which control and plan birth of children. However, families are facing a number of challenges and threats that affect performing the basic family functions. High unemployment rate, poverty, violence and addictions are only part of the phenomena that negatively affect quality of living of Polish families. This study presents opinions of young people about transitions and threats concerning family functions.
The Experience of the Parents’ Absence and the Declared Life Aspirations of School-age Young People. Summary of Research Findings
Authors: Konieczny Paweł , Tylka Monika
Published: November 2015

The family, in its numerous structural and socio-emotional characteristics, creates a unique environment conditioning the formation of evaluative orientations, life plans and aspirations of the young generation. Experiencing the parents’ absence in one’s upbringing significantly diversifies the aspirations manifested by the young people. The undertaken empirical research shows that children from single-parent families more often appreciate the value of health, honesty, faith and tranquillity; they also more often express their aspiration to be financially independent, as well as their intention to undertake university studies and work at the same time. Young people who experience their parents’ physical absence more often have no intention to get actively involved in the work of the church they belong to, and they ascribe a significant influence on their own views and opinions to themselves.
Inflation Convergence in the East African Community: A Fractional Integration and Cointegration Study
Authors: Carcel Hector , Gil-Alana Luis A. , Madigu Godfrey
Published: November 2015

In this study we have examined the inflation convergence hypothesis in the five countries that belong to the East African Community and which recently signed a protocol outlining their plans for launching a monetary union within ten years. We check for common patterns in the persistence in the inflation levels. As it is argued in the literature, countries hoping to form a monetary union should present similar inflation patterns. Our study shows that the inflation rates in these countries present orders of integration equal to higher than one in all cases, confirming that shocks will most certainly not recover in the long run. Moreover, fractional cointegration relationships are also found across all the countries with the exception of Tanzania, suggesting that this country displays a different pattern compared to the remaining four, presenting also some evidence of a break in the data.
Synthesis of the spiroacetal fragments of spirofungins A and B, antibiotics isolated from Streptomyces violaceusniger Tü 4113
Authors: Sakauchi Hiroyuki , Higashi Emi , Shimizu Yuko , Kojima Mikiko , Asamitsu Yuko , Kuwahara Shigefumi , Izumi Minoru , Kiyota Hiromasa
Published: November 2015

The spiroacetal [C(9)–C(20)] fragments of spirofungins A and B, antibiotics isolated from Streptomyces violaceusniger Tü 4113, were prepared from a known bromo alcohol derived from (S)-citronellal, using thermodynamically controlled iodolactonization and spiroacetalization as the key steps.
Influence of selected heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu) on nematode communities in experimental soil microcosm
Authors: Šalamún P. , Brázová T. , Miklisová D. , Hanzelová V.
Published: November 2015

In this study, the effects of arsenic, cadmium, copper and chromium treatments were examined on a nematode community structure and proportion of functional groups in the microcosm for 30 days. The toxic effects on the nematode community did not correspond with metals mobility (EDTA extraction) in soil as it was expected. The most toxic element with a significant degradation of community structure was chromium (low mobile), which negatively affected almost all observed ecological parameters (abundance, diversity and ecological indices). On the other hand, cadmium and arsenic influence was negligible even in the plots treated with the highest concentrations and the communities resembled to the control samples. Copper showed a stimulative effect on the community under low concentration (40 mg.kg-1), while under higher concentrations the stimulation was replaced by stress responses. The widely used ecological indices, such as the Maturity Index 2-5, Structure Index, and Shannon-Weaver Index and c-p groups showed the best bioindication potential among nematode parameters.
Research Note. Cox-1 gene sequence of Spirometra in Pampas foxes from Argentina
Authors: Petrigh R. S. , Scioscia N. P. , Denegri G. M. , Fugassa M. H.
Published: November 2015

The parasites of the genus Spirometra belong to one of the twelve genera of the family Diphyllobothriidae, with several species of zoonotic importance whose definitive hosts are carnivorous mammals. In Argentina, few reports have described these parasites in wild carnivores. Morphological studies of the adult stage obtained from necropsy allow the distinction between Diphyllobothrium and Spirometra. A less invasive method of identification is the analysis of the parasite eggs; however, the morphometric similarities between close genera and species and alterations in egg preservation affect the identification. In Argentina, molecular tools have been used as a non-invasive and accurate method to increase the information about Spirometra and to improve its identification. In the present study, DNA was extracted from Spirometra eggs from Pampas foxes and a 450-bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene was sequenced. The sequence obtained, which is the first Spirometra DNA sequence from Argentina, was deposited at GenBank. Comparison by BLASTN analysis between the sequence obtained and the sequences from GenBank showed 93 % identity with S. proliferum and 89% with S. erinaceieuropaei.
CFD Simulation of Hydrodynamic of a Bubble Column Reactor Operating in Churn-Turbulent Regime and Effect of Gas Inlet Distribution on System Characteristics
Authors: Azimi Yancheshme Amir , Zarkesh Jamshid , Rashtchian Davod , Anvari Arezou
Published: November 2015

CFD simulation of cylindrical bubble column including air as dispersed phase and water as continuous phase operating in churn-turbulent flow regime with diameter of 0.49 m, height of 3.6 m and gas superficial velocity of 0.14 m/s have been conducted. All simulations have been carried out in a 2D axisymmetric, unsteady and Euler/Euler framework with the aid of commercial software FLUENT v. 14.5. Simulations were validated by our experimental results through residence time distribution (RTD) data. Effect of bubble size distribution at inlet on column hydrodynamic was investigated and results clearly showed that equilibrium bubble size distribution in most parts of column is independent of bubble size distribution at inlet. In addition, liquid axial velocity and gas hold-up profiles results in column center were approximately the same for cases with different inlet distribution and confirmed similarity of their hydrodynamic.
Temperature-Oriented Pyrolysis on the Decomposition Characteristics of Chlorella pyrenoidosa
Authors: Li Gang , Dong Ren-jie , Fu Nan , Zhou Yu-guang , Li Dong , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: November 2015

Chlorella pyrenoidosa is one of the best candidates for biofuel production. The yield and chemical composition of decomposed products of Chlorella pyrenoidosa were determined using thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and pyrolysis-gas chromatographic mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) by varying the temperature ranges. The results indicated that the main decomposition temperature of Chlorella pyrenoidosa was 294.53°C and up to 46.7% of the mass was lost. A complete decomposition of Chlorella pyrenoidosa was detected until 642.64°C. The pyrolysis of Chlorella pyrenoidosa at 800°C produced 63.58% (the maximum yield) of pyrolysis products compared to 40.22% at 300°C. It is suggested that the generation of pollutants during microalgae pyrolysis can be avoided by controlling the temperature at a relatively low stage (approximately 300°C).
Integrating a Career Planning and Development Program into the Baccalaureate Nursing Curriculum: Part I. Impact on Students’ Career Resilience
Authors: Waddell Janice , Spalding Karen , Canizares Genevieve , Navarro Justine , Connell Michelle , Jancar Sonya , Stinson Jennifer , Victor Charles
Published: November 2015

Student nurses often embark on their professional careers with a lack of the knowledge and confidence necessary to navigate them successfully. An ongoing process of career planning and development (CPD) is integral to developing career resilience, one key attribute that may enable nurses to respond to and influence their ever-changing work environments with the potential outcome of increased job satisfaction and commitment to the profession. A longitudinal mixed methods study of a curriculum-based CPD program was conducted to determine the program’s effects on participating students, new graduate nurses, and faculty. This first in a series of three papers about the overall study’s components reports on undergraduate student outcomes. Findings demonstrate that the intervention group reported higher perceived career resilience than the control group, who received the standard nursing curriculum without CPD. The program offered students the tools and resources to become confident, self-directed, and active in shaping their engagement in their academic program to help achieve their career goals, whereas control group students continued to look uncertainly to others for answers and direction. The intervention group recognized the value of this particular CPD program and both groups, albeit differently, highlighted the key role that faculty played in students’ career planning.