bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conference spotlight: 21st Annual Meeting of the Swiss Stroke Society, the 1st Symposium of the Swiss Stroke Nursing Network and the Swiss Stroke Trialists’ Meeting
Authors: Michel Patrik , Mösinger Doris , Hirt Lorenz , Arnold Marcel
Published: January 2019

The 21st Annual Meeting of the Swiss Stroke Society held in Lausanne, Switzerland, from the 11th to 12th January 2018 at Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) included scientific sessions about vasculitis, hyperacute stroke management, the old and polymorbid stroke patient, and cerebral aneurysms/vasospasms and inaugurated the 1st Symposium of the Swiss Stroke Nursing Network.
Treatment of migraine attacks and prevention of migraine: Guidelines by the German Migraine and Headache Society and the German Society of Neurology
Authors: Diener Hans-Christoph , Holle-Lee Dagny , Nägel Steffen , Dresler Thomas , Gaul Charly , Göbel Hartmut , Heinze-Kuhn Katja , Jürgens Tim , Kropp Peter , Meyer Bianca , May Arne , Schulte Laura , Solbach Kasja , Straube Andreas , Kamm Katharina , Förderreuther Stephanie , Gantenbein Andreas , Petersen Jens , Sandor Peter , Lampl Christian
Published: January 2019

In collaboration with some of the leading headache centres in Germany, Switzerland and Austria, we have established new guidelines for the treatment of migraine attacks and the prevention of migraine. A thorough literature research of the last 10 years has been the basis of the current recommendations. At the beginning, we present therapeutic novelties, followed by a summary of all recommendations. After an introduction, we cover topics like drug therapy and practical experience, non-effective medication, migraine prevention, interventional methods, non-medicational and psychological methods for prevention and therapies without proof of efficacy.
Mineralogy of the baotite-bearing Gundrapalli lamproite, Nalgonda district, Telangana, India
Authors: Kaur Gurmeet , Mitchell Roger H.
Published: January 2019

We describe the mineralogy of a lamproite dyke from Gundrapalli village (Nalgonda district), Telangana, India. The dyke consists of a mineral assemblage characteristic of lamproites in terms of the presence of amphiboles (mainly potassic-richterite together with potassic-arfvedsonite, magnesio-riebeckite, Ti-rich potassic-magnesio-arfvedsonite, potassic-magnesio-arfvedsonite, katophorite and potassic-ferri-katophorite), Al-poor pyroxene, phlogopite (Ti-rich, Al-poor), pseudomorphed leucite, spinel (chromite-magnesiochromite), fluorapatite, baryte, titanite, rutile, barytocalcite, calcite, ilmenite, hydro-zircon, baotite, strontianite, allanite, quartz and pyrite. The absence of wadeite and priderite have been compensated for by the presence of baotite, rutile, titanite, baryte and hydro-zircons. The presence of the secondary phases: allanite, hydro-zircon, chlorite, quartz and cryptocrystalline silica, implies that the dyke has undergone deuteric alteration. On the basis of its typomorphic mineralogy the Gundrapalli dyke has been classified as a pseudoleucite-phlogopite-amphibole-lamproite. We report the presence of the rare mineral baotite from this lamproite, the first recognition of baotite from a lamproite in India. The mineralogy of the baotite-bearing Gundrapalli lamproite is analogous to the baotite-bearing Kvaløya lamproite from Troms, Norway.
Editing aberrant splice sites efficiently restores β-globin expression in β-thalassemia
Authors: Xu Shuqian , Luk Kevin , Yao Qiuming , Shen Anne H. , Zeng Jing , Wu Yuxuan , Luo Hong-Yuan , Brendel Christian , Pinello Luca , Chui David H. K. , Wolfe Scot A. , Bauer Daniel E.
Published: January 2019

The thalassemias are compelling targets for therapeutic genome editing in part because monoallelic correction of a subset of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) would be sufficient for enduring disease amelioration. A primary challenge is the development of efficient repair strategies that are effective in HSCs. Here, we demonstrate that allelic disruption of aberrant splice sites, one of the major classes of thalassemia mutations, is a robust approach to restore gene function. We target the IVS1-110G>A mutation using Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) and the IVS2-654C>T mutation by Cas12a/Cpf1 RNP in primary CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) from β-thalassemia patients. Each of these nuclease complexes achieves high efficiency and penetrance of therapeutic edits. Erythroid progeny of edited patient HSPCs show reversal of aberrant splicing and restoration of β-globin expression. This strategy could enable correction of a substantial fraction of transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia genotypes with currently available gene-editing technology.
Comprehensive Paired Tumor/Germline Testing for Lynch Syndrome: Bringing Resolution to the Diagnostic Process
Authors: Salvador Monalyn U. , Truelson Melissa R.F. , Mason Carla , Souders Beth , LaDuca Holly , Dougall Brittany , Black Mary Helen , Fulk Kelly , Profato Jessica , Gutierrez Stephanie , Jasperson Kory , Tippin-Davis Brigette , Lu Hsiao-Mei , Gray Phillip , Shah Swati , Chao Elizabeth C. , Ghahramani Negar , Landsverk Megan , Gau Chia-Ling , Chen Daniel , Pronold Melissa
Published: January 2019

PURPOSE

The current diagnostic testing algorithm for Lynch syndrome (LS) is complex and often involves multiple follow-up germline and somatic tests. We aimed to describe the results of paired tumor/germline testing performed on a large cohort of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and endometrial cancer (EC) to better determine the utility of this novel testing methodology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of patients with CRC and EC undergoing paired tumor/germline analysis of the LS genes at a clinical diagnostic laboratory (N = 702). Microsatellite instability, MLH1 promoter hypermethylation, and germline testing of additional genes were performed if ordered. Patients were assigned to one of five groups on the basis of prior tumor screening and germline testing outcomes. Results for each group are described.

RESULTS

Overall results were informative regarding an LS diagnosis for 76.1% and 60.8% of patients with mismatch-repair–deficient (MMRd) CRC and EC without and with prior germline testing, respectively. LS germline mutations were identified in 24.8% of patients in the group without prior germline testing, and interestingly, in 9.5% of patients with previous germline testing; four of these were discordant with prior tumor screening. Upon excluding patients with MLH1 promoter hypermethylation and germline mutations, biallelic somatic inactivation was seen in approximately 50% of patients with MMRd tumors across groups.

CONCLUSION

Paired testing identified a cause for MMRd tumors in 76% and 61% of patients without and with prior LS germline testing, respectively. Findings support inclusion of tumor sequencing as well as comprehensive LS germline testing in the LS testing algorithm. Paired testing offers a complete, convenient evaluation for LS with high diagnostic resolution.
Indeterminate Pulmonary Nodules at Diagnosis in Rhabdomyosarcoma: Are They Clinically Significant? A Report From the European Paediatric Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group
Authors: Vaarwerk Bas , Bisogno Gianni , McHugh Kieran , Brisse Hervé J. , Morosi Carlo , Corradini Nadège , Jenney Meriel , Orbach Daniel , Chisholm Julia C. , Ferrari Andrea , Zanetti Ilaria , De Salvo Gian Luca , van Rijn Rick R. , Merks Johannes H.M. ,   on behalf of the EpSSG Radiology Group
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical significance of indeterminate pulmonary nodules at diagnosis (defined as ≤ 4 pulmonary nodules < 5 mm or 1 nodule measuring ≥ 5 and < 10 mm) in patients with pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS).

Patients and Methods

We selected patients with supposed nonmetastatic RMS treated in large pediatric oncology centers in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and the Netherlands, who were enrolled in the European Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group (E pSSG) RMS 2005 study. Patients included in the current study received a diagnosis between September 2005 and December 2013, and had chest computed tomography scans available for review that were done at time of diagnosis. Local radiologists were asked to review the chest computed tomography scans for the presence of pulmonary nodules and to record their findings on a standardized case report form. In the E pSSG RMS 2005 Study, patients with indeterminate pulmonary nodules were treated identically to patients without pulmonary nodules, enabling us to compare event-free survival and overall survival between groups by log-rank test.

Results

In total, 316 patients were included; 67 patients (21.2%) had indeterminate pulmonary nodules on imaging and 249 patients (78.8%) had no pulmonary nodules evident at diagnosis. Median follow-up for survivors (n = 258) was 75.1 months; respective 5-year event-free survival and overall survival rates (95% CI) were 77.0% (64.8% to 85.5%) and 82.0% (69.7% to 89.6%) for patients with indeterminate nodules and 73.2% (67.1% to 78.3%) and 80.8% (75.1% to 85.3%) for patients without nodules at diagnosis ( P = .68 and .76, respectively).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that indeterminate pulmonary nodules at diagnosis do not affect outcome in patients with otherwise localized RMS. There is no need to biopsy or upstage patients with RMS who have indeterminate pulmonary nodules at diagnosis.
The OsJAZ1 degron modulates jasmonate signaling sensitivity during rice development
Authors: Tian Jiaqi , Cao Lichun , Chen Xiaofei , Chen Mingjiao , Zhang Peng , Cao Liming , Persson Staffan , Zhang Dabing , Yuan Zheng
Published: January 2019

Jasmonates (JAs) are crucial to the coordination of plant stress responses and development. JA signaling depends on JASMONATE-ZIM DOMAIN (JAZ) proteins that are destroyed by the SCFCOI1-mediated 26S proteasome when the JAZ co-receptor COI1 binds active JA or the JA-mimicking phytotoxin coronatine (COR). JAZ degradation releases JAZ-interacting transcription factors that can execute stress and growth responses. The JAZ proteins typically contain Jas motifs that undergo conformational changes during JA signal transduction and that are important for the JAZ-COI1 interaction and JAZ protein degradation. However, how alterations in the Jas motif and, in particular, the JAZ degron part of the motif, influence protein stability and plant development have not been well explored. To clarify this issue, we performed bioassays and genetic experiments to uncover the function of the OsJAZ1 degron in rice JA signaling. We found that substitution or deletion of core segments of the degron altered the OsJAZ1-OsCOI1b interaction in a COR-dependent manner. We show that these altered interactions function as a regulator for JA signaling during flower and root development. Our study therefore expands our understanding of how the JAZ degron functions, and provides the means to change the sensitivity and specificity of JA signaling in rice.
The Value of US Government Data to US Business Decisions
Authors: Hughes-Cromwick Ellen , Coronado Julia
Published: January 2019

The US government is a major producer of economic and financial data, statistics, analysis, and forecasts that are gathered, compiled, and published as public goods for use by citizens, government agencies, researchers, nonprofits, and the business community. There is no market transaction in the publication and dissemination of these government data and therefore no market-determined value. The purpose of this paper is to outline and augment our understanding of the value of government data for business decision-making. We provide an overview of the topic, including results from government reports and a private sector survey. We then provide concrete examples of how these government data are used to make business decisions focusing on three sectors: automotive, energy, and financial services. Examples of new initiatives by the federal government to open access to more data, exploiting technology advances associated with the internet, cloud storage, and software applications, are discussed. With the significant growth in the digital economy, we also include discussion and insights around how digital platform companies utilize government data in conjunction with their privately generated data (or “big data”) to foster more informed business decisions.
On the Controversies Behind the Origins of the Federal Economic Statistics
Authors: Rockoff Hugh
Published: January 2019

Our federal economic statistics originated in the economic and political divisions in the United States and the bitter debates over economic policy they engendered at the end of the 19th century and during the world wars and Great Depression. Workers were angry because they believed that they were being exploited by robber barons who were capturing all of the benefits of economic growth, while employers were just as sure that the second industrial revolution had brought workers an unparalleled increase in real wages. Other debates centered on the effects of unrestricted immigration on wages and employment opportunities of native-born Americans, on the effects of tariffs on prices paid by consumers, on the effects of frequent financial panics on employment, and, during the world wars, on the effects of wage and price controls on the living standards of workers. Participants on all sides of these debates believed that nonpolitical and accurate statistics constructed by experts would help to win support for the policies they favored. In most cases, the development of these statistics was led by individuals, private organizations, and state governments, although the federal government eventually took over the role of producing these statistics on a regular basis. Here I provide brief histories of the origins of US statistics on prices, national income and product, and unemployment to illustrate this story.
Women in Economics: Stalled Progress
Authors: Lundberg Shelly , Stearns Jenna
Published: January 2019

Women are still a minority in the economics profession. By the mid-2000s, just under 35 percent of PhD students and 30 percent of assistant professors were female, and these numbers have remained roughly constant ever since. Over the past two decades, women’s progress in academic economics has slowed, with virtually no improvement in the female share of junior faculty or graduate students in decades. Little consensus has emerged as to why, though there has been a renewal of widespread interest in the status and future of women in economics and of the barriers they face to professional success. In this paper, we first document trends in the gender composition of academic economists over the past 25 years, the extent to which these trends encompass the most elite departments, and how women’s representation across fields of study within economics has changed. We then review the recent literature on other dimensions of women’s relative position in the discipline, including research productivity and income, and assess evidence on the barriers that female economists face in publishing, promotion, and tenure. While differences in preferences and constraints may directly affect the relative productivity of men and women, productivity gaps do not fully explain the gender disparity in promotion rates in economics. Furthermore, the progress of women has stalled relative to that in other disciplines in the past two decades. We propose that differential assessment of men and women is one important factor in explaining this stalled progress, reflected in gendered institutional policies and apparent implicit bias in promotion and tenure processes.
Recent advances in clathrin-independent endocytosis
Authors: Hemalatha Anupama , Mayor Satyajit
Published: January 2019

Endocytic pathways are broadly classified into clathrin dependent and independent on the basis of the requirement for the coat protein, clathrin. The molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying the formation of clathrin-independent pathways are still being explored, and this review summarizes recent advances and emerging functional roles of these diverse pathways. In particular, this review will discuss the growing consensus on the role of BAR domain proteins and the actin machinery in different clathrin-independent pathways and its significance to the functions fulfilled by these endocytic pathways.
Choosing and learning: Semiosis means choice
Authors: Kull Kalevi
Published: January 2019

We examine the possibility of shifting the concept of choice to the centre of the semiotic theory of learning. Thus, we define sign process (meaning-making) through the concept of choice: semiosis is the process of making choices between simultaneously provided options. We define semiotic learning as leaving traces by choices, while these traces influence further choices. We term such traces of choices memory. Further modification of these traces (constraints) will be called habituation. Organic needs are homeostatic mechanisms coupled with choice-making. Needs and habits result in motivatedness. Semiosis as choice-making can be seen as a complementary description of the Peircean triadic model of semiosis; however, this can fit also the models of meaning-making worked out in other shools of semiotics. We also provide a sketch for a joint typology of semiosis and learning.
Apresentação
Authors: Lodi Ribeiro Ricardo , Cesar Santiago Julio , Benelli Corrêa Vanessa
Published: January 2019

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Faecal incontinence: investigation and treatment
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: January 2019

Up to 10% of adults can experience faecal incontinence in their lives, which can be caused by many factors. Linda Nazarko investigates the causes of incontinence as well as treatment and management pathways that nurses can consider for their patients

Faecal incontinence (FI) is a hidden problem that is under diagnosed, under investigated and under treated. Up to 10% of adults can experience an episode of FI. The prevalence of FI in the adult population has been estimated at 0.8–6.2%, a recent North American research indicated a prevalence of 8.3% in adults living in the community ( Ditah et al, 2014 ). This article explores the reasons why adults can develop FI, the importance of assessment, what treatments are available and how intractable FI can best be managed.
Cervical cancer screening: How can we increase uptake?
Authors:   Jo's Cerivical Cancer Trust, visit www.jostrust.org.uk
Published: January 2019

Cervical cancer screening is at an all-time low. General practice nurses who regularly carry out smear tests may be interested in learning what they can do to encourage women, particularly young women, to attend their appointments and ensure they keep up-to-date with screenings
An evaluation of an innovative workforce development strategy
Authors: Akpenyi Onyinye , Sayer Melissa , Nicholson Ellen , Clarke Mary
Published: January 2019

Practice nurses are strategically placed to provide high-quality care to their patients; however, a shortage in the nursing population and increasing demands on general practice have left nurses in need of new development schemes to meet these workforce challenges

Background:

A training scheme was devised to address a deficit in recruiting practice nurses. It was a competency-based programme tailored to the role and population needs.

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the training scheme, assess whether or not objectives were met, and identify areas in need of improvement.

Methods:

An online survey was created and sent to nurses. Satisfaction questionnaires were given to patients seen by the nurses towards the end of their training scheme.

Findings:

Responses were received from 6 nurses and 16 patients. Nurses rated the scheme highly and reported confidence in handling the role, but had notable variation in perception of competency in different programme domains. Patients consistently rated the nurses as ‘outstanding’ and were ‘very likely’ to recommend them. There was a correlation between patients' and nurses' perception of competency.

Conclusion:

A successful pilot of the training scheme which will ideally pave the way for further research.
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Authors: Winter George
Published: January 2019

George Winter provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to practice nurses. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Lumbar fusion involving the sacrum increases dislocation risk in primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Salib C. G. , Reina N. , Perry K. I. , Taunton M. J. , Berry D. J. , Abdel M. P.
Published: January 2019

Aims

Concurrent hip and spine pathologies can alter the biomechanics of spinopelvic mobility in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study examines how differences in pelvic orientation of patients with spine fusions can increase the risk of dislocation risk after THA.

Patients and Methods

We identified 84 patients (97 THAs) between 1998 and 2015 who had undergone spinal fusion prior to primary THA. Patients were stratified into three groups depending on the length of lumbar fusion and whether or not the sacrum was involved. Mean age was 71 years (40 to 87) and 54 patients (56%) were female. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 30 kg/m2 (19 to 45). Mean follow-up was six years (2 to 17). Patients were 1:2 matched to patients with primary THAs without spine fusion. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated.

Results

Dislocation in the fusion group was 5.2% at one year versus 1.7% in controls but this did not reach statistical significance (HR 1.9; p = 0.33). Compared with controls, there was no significant difference in rate of dislocation in patients without a sacral fusion. When the sacrum was involved, the rate of dislocation was significantly higher than in controls (HR 4.5; p = 0.03), with a trend to more dislocations in longer lumbosacral fusions. Patient demographics and surgical characteristics of THA (i.e. surgical approach and femoral head diameter) did not significantly impact risk of dislocation (p > 0.05). Significant radiological differences were measured in mean anterior pelvic tilt between the one-level lumbar fusion group (22°), the multiple-level fusion group (27°), and the sacral fusion group (32°; p < 0.01). Ten-year survival was 93% in the fusion group and 95% in controls (HR 1.2; p = 0.8).

Conclusion

Lumbosacral spinal fusions prior to THA increase the risk of dislocation within the first six months. Fusions involving the sacrum with multiple levels of lumbar involvement notably increased the risk of postoperative dislocation compared with a control group and other lumbar fusions. Surgeons should take care with component positioning and may consider higher stability implants in this high-risk cohort.
Nerve transfers for peripheral nerve injury in the upper limb
Authors: Isaacs J. , Cochran A. R.
Published: January 2019

Nerve transfer has become a common and often effective reconstructive strategy for proximal and complex peripheral nerve injuries of the upper limb. This case-based discussion explores the principles and potential benefits of nerve transfer surgery and offers in-depth discussion of several established and valuable techniques including: motor transfer for elbow flexion after musculocutaneous nerve injury, deltoid reanimation for axillary nerve palsy, intrinsic re-innervation following proximal ulnar nerve repair, and critical sensory recovery despite non-reconstructable median nerve lesions.
Slop and his medical students
Authors: Slop Mr
Published: January 2019

Our resident scribe speculates whether the current medical curriculum offers students the necessary learning opportunities.
What would I want? Dementia perspectives and priorities among people with dementia, family carers and service professionals
Authors: Haapala Irja , Carr Ashley , Biggs Simon
Published: January 2019

Different perspectives on dementia, held by people with dementia, carers and professionals working in helping service industries, were examined in 111 interviews across Australia in 2017 to add a recipients’ view on what public health campaigning should address. Contrasts were found between the priorities of the different perspectives, plus a common feeling that dementia should become a normal part of social life. Rather than reflecting stigmatising behaviour, all groups expressed a need for knowledge on how to communicate and interact with people with dementia. In contrast to current campaigns, information on prevention and health-care systems were a low priority.
The effects of frequent use of a web-based sight-reading software on eighth graders’ music notational literacy
Authors: Bovin Amy J.
Published: January 2019

Due to its potential of improving an individual’s music notational literacy and the ease of use within the ensemble setting, the purpose of this study was to determine if frequent use of a web-based sight-reading software (sightreadingfactory.com) in full band rehearsals and group lessons would improve a band student’s individual music notational literacy level. For this study, the researcher utilized the pretest–post-test control–group statistical design with three groups of eighth-grade band students. Group 1 (n = 25) used the software at the beginning of every full band rehearsal, Group 2 (n = 31) used the software at the beginning of every small group lesson rehearsal, and Group 3 (n = 23) did not use the software in any capacity and served as the control group. The study lasted for eight weeks. The researcher individually administered the pretest to all student participants in Week 1 of the study and the post-test during Week 8. In order to determine which treatment caused the greatest change in music notational literacy, the researcher compared the mean gain scores of each group using an ANOVA and found statistically significant findings (F = 3.84, df = 2, p = 0.026). Group 1 (n = 25, M = 2.80, SD = 1.76) students’ mean gain scores were significantly higher than Group 3’s (n = 20, M = 0.90, SD = 2.02, p = 0.006 indicating) evident that the web-based software was most effective in the full ensemble rehearsals.
Digital tablets in the music classroom: A study about the academic performance of students in the BYOD context
Authors: Guillén-Gámez Francisco D. , Álvarez-García Francisco J. , Rodríguez Irene Maldonado
Published: January 2019

This study assesses whether the use of digital tablets in the context of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) produces an alteration in the academic performance of high school music students. The grades of high school students were analysed and compared for two groups: experimental and control. The experimental group carried out the experiment using digital tablets, while a traditional methodology was used by the control group. The conclusions showed similar results regarding academic performance for a specific unit of the music subject. Students who used their own digital devices obtained statistically similar results to students who followed a more conservative process (even slightly superior in some parameters). Furthermore, there were no significant differences regarding gender. The research concludes that digital tablets in the music classroom are not a barrier for the academic performance of students, but rather a tool that helps in the teaching-learning process.
Great War Games: Notes on Collective Memory, the Adynaton, and Posthumanism
Authors: Filippaki Iro
Published: January 2019

This essay performs a narratological reading of 2014 video games Valiant Hearts and Super Trench Attack and the ways through which they memorialize the Great War. By close-reading the narrative techniques of these games, I argue that through their storytelling elements they memorialize the Great War by countering the narrative trope of the adynaton, often employed to manage the traumatic articulation of war narratives. Bathetic, pathetic, and chronotopic representations contribute to the affective economy on which these video games rely to memorialize the war, and hint at what posthumanist memorialization could mean for the remembrance of Great War.
First report and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in humans and animals in Khartoum state, Sudan
Authors: Adam Kaltoum Yagoub , Ismail A. A. , Masri M. A. , Gameel A. A.
Published: January 2019

Background and Aim: Cryptosporidium is recognized to infect several mammalian species as well as humans, causing substantial economic losses and serious public health concern. Infected animals can be a source of environmental contamination and human infections. In general, the occurrence of Cryptosporidium species in animals and human in Sudan and zoonotic importance is not well documented. This study aimed to identify Cryptosporidium spp. infecting different animal species and humans and to compare between different isolates obtained. Materials and Methods: To provide molecular information about Cryptosporidium in animals and humans, both modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN) specific stain and molecular assay were used. Concentration techniques followed by three protocols of DNA extraction were carried out. After microscopic screening of 263 fecal samples (goats [n=197], cattle [n=12], sheep [n=12], and human [n=42]), 61 positive and 30 negative, randomly selected samples were used in nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting part of the 18S RNA. Results: Nested PCR amplification confirmed 91.8% (56/61) of microscopic-positive samples. 8.2% (5/61) of negative samples by PCR (positive by microscopy) were considered false negatives. Sequencing followed by alignment of the 14 isolates indicated that all samples were identical (100%) and belonged to Cryptosporidium parvum. Conclusion: MZN staining procedure is reliable for the routine diagnosis of Cryptosporidium; cetyltrimethylammonium bromide extraction buffer and nested PCR targeting 18S rRNA gene are reliable and useful in epidemiological studies of this parasite.
Common NOD2 Risk Variants as Major Susceptibility Factors for Bacterial Infections in Compensated Cirrhosis
Authors: Reichert Matthias Christian , Ripoll Cristina , Casper Markus , Greinert Robin , Vandieken Edith , Grünhage Frank , Appenrodt Beate , Zipprich Alexander , Lammert Frank
Published: January 2019

OBJECTIVES:

Common nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain containing 2 (NOD2) gene variants have been associated with bacterial infections (BIs) in cirrhosis, in particular, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and mortality. Our aim was to evaluate the independent association of NOD2 variants with BI according to the decompensation stage.

METHODS:

Consecutive patients with cirrhosis in 2 academic medical centers were included and genotyped for the NOD2 variants p.R702W, p.G908R, and c.3020insC. Electronic medical records were screened for BI (requiring antibiotic therapy) and past and present decompensation (as defined by variceal bleeding, encephalopathy, ascites, and/or jaundice). Clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) was assessed with liver stiffness and/or hepatic venous pressure gradient measurements.

RESULTS:

Overall, 735 patients were recruited (men 65%; interquartile age range 53–68 years). Alcoholic cirrhosis was the predominant etiology (n = 406, 55%), and most patients were in the decompensated stage (n = 531, 72%). In total, 158 patients (21%) carried at least one NOD2 variant. BIs were detected in 263 patients (36%), and NOD2 variants were associated with BI (odds ratio = 1.58; 95% confidence interval 1.11–2.27; P = 0.02). In compensated patients, the combination of NOD2 variants and presence of CSPH was the best independent predictors of BI, whereas other factors, such as spleen size and hemoglobin, and decompensations including hepatic encephalopathy or jaundice, gained relevance in decompensated patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

NOD2 risk variants are associated with BI in cirrhosis. The genetic effect on BI is strongest in compensated patients, whereas in decompensated patients their presence is less relevant. In this situation, CSPH becomes an independent factor associated with BI.
Whole Genome Messenger RNA Profiling Identifies a Novel Signature to Predict Gastric Cancer Survival
Authors: Dai Jin , Li Zhe-Xuan , Zhang Yang , Ma Jun-Ling , Zhou Tong , You Wei-Cheng , Li Wen-Qing , Pan Kai-Feng
Published: January 2019

OBJECTIVES:

Molecular prognostic biomarkers for gastric cancer (GC) are still limited. We aimed to identify potential messenger RNAs (mRNAs) associated with GC prognosis and further establish an mRNA signature to predict the survival of GC based on the publicly accessible databases.

METHODS:

Discovery of potential mRNAs associated with GC survival was undertaken for 441 patients with GC based on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), with information on clinical characteristics and vital status. Gene ontology functional enrichment analysis and pathway enrichment analysis were conducted to interrogate the possible biological functions. We narrowed down the list of mRNAs for validation study based on a significance level of 1.00 × 10−4, also integrating the information from the methylation analysis and constructing the protein–protein interaction network for elucidating biological processes. A total of 54 mRNAs were further studied in the validation stage, using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE84437, n = 433). The validated mRNAs were used to construct a risk score model predicting the prognosis of GC.

RESULTS:

A total of 13 mRNAs were significantly associated with survival of GC, after the validation stage, including DCLK1, FLRT2, MCC, PRICKLE1, RIMS1, SLC25A15, SLCO2A1, CDO1, GHR, CD109, SELP, UPK1B, and CD36. Except CD36, DCLK1, and SLCO2A1, other mRNAs are newly reported to be associated with GC survival. The 13 mRNA-based risk score had good performance on distinguishing GC prognosis, with a higher score indicating worse survival in both TCGA and GEO datasets.

CONCLUSIONS:

We established a 13-mRNA signature to potentially predict the prognosis of patients with GC, which might be useful in clinical practice for informing patient stratification.
We are in need of each other. Paulo Freire and the role of conflicts in education
Authors: Pouwels Jan
Published: January 2019

This paper re-examines the key text Pedagogy of the Oppressed in order to gain an understanding of the nature, valuation and pedagogical use of conflict as perceived by Paulo Freire. I found that conflicts are at the very heart of Freire’s educational philosophy and educational practice. Oppressive domination, whether through conquest, divide and rule, manipulation or cultural invasion, entails contradictions which are the core elements for understanding social injustice and inequality. Traditional (banking or deposit) education serves mainly as a continuation of this painful situation instead of helping to change it. Liberation through problem-posing education is able to change the oppressive situation towards a more humanised society. Struggle and fight are necessary to liberate and educate the people and change the oppressing reality. The concept of conflict is dialectical by nature and Freire recognises the importance and educational power of contradictions, yet strives to surmount the contradictions by changing the great power imbalance in social reality towards a more balanced, humanised reality. The valuation of conflict is such that it becomes the very content of liberating and transformative education in ‘generative themes’ uncovering ‘limit-situations’. Limit situations always contain contradictions. The paper ends with a few lessons learned to reconsider and reinvent the teaching of the conflicts in education in a new way. Among these lessons is the awareness that contradictions are not incompatible incongruities which are irreconcilable and mutually exclusive, but in need of each other (hence the title); that transformative changes create feelings of anxiety and fear in people; that people might not want to be liberated, and arguably not in the way educators want; that education has two contradictory tasks, that is socialisation and liberation at the same time; and finally that a transformative pedagogy needs to include the oppressor’s voice and position, an oppressor that is seen not as an enemy but as an opponent. Together they form a unity.
Theoretical Review of Solar Radio Burst III (SRBT III) Associated With of Solar Flare Phenomena
Authors:   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Hamidi Z.S.
Published: January 2019

This article broadly reviews our knowledge of theoretical solar radio burst type III (SRBT III) in the low frequency region. The eruption mechanism of solar flares and type III are currently an extremely active area of research especially during the solar cycle is towards maximum. There is a particular focus on their physical properties, as opposed to the microphysics such as that needed for the evolution and formation of this burst or particle acceleration as such. In this work we summarize the related theory, model, significant parameters and relate it with the behavior of the burst in low range frequency. Although this is only a combination of all significant literature, it is hoped that it will give some idea on how to understand in details on this burst
Spectral Analysis of Aeromagnetic Data over Part of the Southern Bida basin, West-Central Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Geology, Benue State Polytechnic Ugbokolo, Nigeria, Bemsen Ikumbur Emmanuel
Published: January 2019

Qualitative and quantitative interpretations of aeromagnetic map over part of the Southern Bida Basin, West-Central Nigeria have carried out using spectral analysis. The aeromagnetic maps digitized along flight lines of 2km interval. The qualitative interpretation of the magnetic anomaly and first vertical derivative maps revealed that the area is intensely faulted with major faults trending East-West (E-W) and minor ones Northeast-Southwest (NE-SW) directions. The result obtained using the spectral method reveals two depth sources in the area, the deeper sources range from 2.81 to 3.24km, while the shallower sources range from 0.45 to 1.49km.The result also shows a linear depression with sedimentary accumulation trending E-W. The average sedimentary thickness in the region is about 2.90km
A CASE OF SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT FOR SEVERE PENETRATING SPINAL CORD TRAUMA IN THE UPPER CERVICAL SPINE
Authors: Matuzov Sergey Anatolyevich , Rozhansky Sergey Anatolyevich , Sizonenko Vladimir Aleksandrovich
Published: January 2019

Clinical, intraoperative and paraclinical description of a case of successful surgery for severe open penetrating spinal cord trauma in the upper cervical spine is reported.
ON SURGICAL TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH VERTEBROBASILAR INSUFFICIENCY ASSOCIATED WITH KIMMERLE ANOMALY
Authors: Chertkov Aleksandr Kuzmich , Klimov Maksim Evgenyevich , Nesterova Marina Valentinovna
Published: January 2019

Patients with vertebrobasilar insufficiency, which are frequent in neurological and neurosurgical practice, require a complex examination to reveal its ethiology and to perform a differential diagnostics. The study objective was to develop a diagnostic algorithm for detection of clinically significant forms of Kimmerle anomaly, and to introduce a new technique for surgical treatment under intraoperative monitoring of the vertebral artery decompression. When a patient with the Kimmerle anomaly shows a vertebrobasilar insufficiency, a comprehensive surgical policy includes a complex clinicalphysiological assessment of the vertebrobasilar basin (from vertebral arteries entrances up to the basilar artery and its branches). If any other pathology is excluded, the Kimmerle rings (foramen arcuale) are removed and hemodynamics in the vertebrobasilar basin is estimated by clinical and graphical Doppler methods.
STABILIZATION OF OCCIPITOATLANTOAXIAL COMPLEX THROUGH POSTERIOR APPROACH
Authors: Korzh Nikolay Alekseyevich , Barysh Aleksandr Evgenyevich
Published: January 2019

A posterior occipitocervical fusion with a novel fixation device developed at Sytenko Institute for Spine and Joints Pathology and a technology of its application have been biomechanically substantiated. The analysis of surgeries in 6 patients with upper cervical spine injuries and disorders was performed. The results were assessed as excellent in 3 patients and good in 3 ones. Some criteria for comprehensive estimation of clinical effectiveness of surgeries performed were proposed.
Perfectionism, Irrational Beliefs, Need for Social Approval and Gender as Predictors of Parent Exam Anxiety
Authors: BAYTEMİR Kemal
Published: January 2019

Students
are at the focus of exam anxiety but parents may also become an important part of
this process. The purpose of the current study was to examine the role of
perfectionism, irrational beliefs, need for social approval and gender as
predictors of parent exam anxiety. The participants of the study were 178
parents (113 (63.48%) female and 65 (36.52%) male) living in a province in the
Central Black Sea Region in Turkey. The mean age of the participants was 42.28,
Sd = 5.90. Personal Information Form, Need for Social Approval Scale,
Irrational Beliefs Scale, Exam Anxiety Scale for Parents and APS Perfectionism
Scale were employed as the data collection tools in the study. Pearson Correlation Coefficient for
the correlation of variables and Multiple Regression Analysis for the
predictive power of independent variables were utilized in analyzing the data.
According to the results of the research, positive perfectionism and social
approval were significantly related to the parent exam anxiety, but the
contributions in the regression model were found non-significant. It was also
found that negative perfectionism, irrational beliefs and gender predicted 26%
of parent exam anxiety. Negative perfectionism, gender and irrational beliefs contributed
to the model most, respectively. Findings obtained from the research were
discussed and interpreted in the direction of the literature and further
suggestions were made for researchers and practitioners studying in the field
of psychological counseling and guidance.
The Effect Of Gamification Method On Students' Achievements and Attitudes Towards Mathematics
Authors: TÜRKMEN Gökçe Pelin , SOYBAŞ Danyal
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study is to search the effect of
gamification methodology on 5th grade students’ achievement and attitude in
Mathematics classes. In accordance with this purpose, the subject of fractions
has been prepared as game based and Educational Informatics Network (known as
EBA in Turkey) games and applications have been used as teaching materials. In
this study, mixed method has been used by combining
quantitative research and qualitative research method. For the
quantitative part, pretest - posttest control group quasi-experimental design
have been used. Quanitative data have been supported by qualitative data,
obtained from in-class observations and unstructured interviews with students. As a result, it has been found out no statistically
significant difference between the achievement and attitude scores of the
students in the experimental and control groups. However, it has been observed
that the achievement of the students in the experimental group increased more
than that of the students in the control group.
Subwersja, nie sztuka. Korzenie, założenia i problemy fan studies
Authors: Urbańczyk Agnieszka
Published: January 2019

Though the area of fan studies has been a prolific field of research for almost three decades, it is still marginal in Poland. The purpose of this paper is not to present types of fan activity, but to discuss the way they are researched and how this research was influenced by ethnography, Pierre Bourdieu’s Critical Theory and cultural studies (especially reception studies). The classic works of fan studies have established a still dominant paradigm of the political and subversive character of fan activity, which is followed by a notion of fandom as a heterotopia. In order to continue the research, it has been necessary for academics to establish a position of involvement instead of distance and to create ethical guidelines preventing fans from being colonized as the Other. However, that may cause petrification of fan studies.
Stawanie się ku bytowi
Authors: Noica Constantin
Published: January 2019

Brâncuşi’s sculpture “Endless Column” in Târgu Jiu was interpreted by Constantin Noica as an artistic expression of the ontological vision characteristic of the Romanian sense of being. It brings together two great philosophical categories, traditionally seen as mutually exclusive: static being and dynamic becoming. Noica proves that Brâncuşi’s sculpture is unique in the way it illustrates “becoming into being” (Romanian = Devenirea întru fiinţa), the fundamental term in Noica’s ontology.Przełożył Andrzej Zawadzki.
Jazz jako model twórczości literackiej. „Jazzowa teoria literatury” Julio Cortázara (Gra w klasy)
Authors: Kafel Małgorzata
Published: January 2019

The article is an attempt at analysing the role of the references to jazz music in the Argentinian writer’s most famous novel, which chapters 10–18 provide an interesting example of the use of this kind of music as a means of a whole range of extraliterary meanings. In the article Hopscotch is treated both as a Cortázar’s artistic manifesto and as an example of a work which fulfils its assumptions in the most complete manner. Musical elements such as improvisation and swing shape the novel in its various aspects, from narration to structure, reflecting a surrealism-inspired need to create literature that transcends traditional ontological frameworks. Jazz is also an illustration of aspirations to independence in artistic and social fields, as well as a means of conveying philosophical ideas and reaching the subconscious.
Powidoki wiersza. Eksperyment lektury poezji Bolesława Leśmiana
Authors: Kłosowski Mateusz
Published: January 2019

The article shows how the visual-painting category of afterimage, which derives from Władysław Strzemiński’s concept, functions at the level of literature (in the poetry of Bolesław Leśmian) and literary studies, as an attempt to apply art concepts to the interpretation of verse. The text is experimental in that it suggests using afterimage as a tool of cognitive philosophy that enables the new meanings to be highlighted in reading the poetic works of Leśmian and in establishing the relations between the visual and the word.
Fenomenologia i performatyka gestu w tańcu współczesnym
Authors: Fazan Teresa
Published: January 2019

The paper covers the problem of gestural expression and the role of the body in the aesthetic experience analysed in the Maurice Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenology of art and Erika Fischer-Lichte’s theory of performance. The author compiles these theorists’ conclusions and contextualizes them in the field of modern and postmodern dance. The ultimate goal is to analyse the artists’ statements in the context of formulated conclusions and syntheses. In summary, the author draws attention to current aesthetic research on dance and pinpoints the benefits of philosophical  phenomenological) interest in the modern and postmodern dance.
Effects of task goal orientation on learner engagement in task performance
Authors: Dao Phung
Published: January 2019

The study investigated the potential impact of task goal orientation on cognitive, social and emotional aspects of task performance through the lens of learner engagement. Sixteen EFL learner dyads completed a convergent decision-making task and a divergent opinion-exchange task. Their audio-recorded interactions were transcribed and coded for evidence of engagement, including idea units and language-related-episodes (cognitive engagement), instances of explicit task enjoyment, reported emotions (emotional engagement), and responsiveness (social engagement). To determine the effects of task goal orientation on learner engagement, scores for engagement types were compared between two tasks. To understand learners’ perception about their engagement, posttask exit questionnaire responses were analyzed using content-analysis approach. Findings showed that learners showed greater cognitive and social engagement in the convergent than divergent tasks. No differences were observed in learners’ emotional engagement. Results are discussed in terms of the role of task goal orientation in promoting learners’ cognitive and social engagement.