bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmaconutrition With Selenium in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Manzanares William , Langlois Pascal L. , Heyland Daren K.
Published: December 2014

Selenium is a component of selenoproteins with antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), multiorgan dysfunction (MOD), and multiorgan failure (MOF) are associated with an early reduction in plasma selenium and glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), and both parameters correlate inversely with the severity of illness and outcomes. Several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluated selenium therapy as monotherapy or in antioxidant cocktails in intensive care unit (ICU) patient populations, and more recently several meta‐analyses suggested benefits with selenium therapy in the most seriously ill patients. However, the largest RCT on pharmaconutrition with glutamine and antioxidants, the REducing Deaths due to Oxidative Stress (REDOXS) Study, was unable to find any improvement in clinical outcomes with antioxidants provided by the enteral and parenteral route and suggested harm in patients with renal dysfunction. Subsequently, the MetaPlus study demonstrated increased mortality in medical patients when provided extra glutamine and selenium enterally. The treatment effect of selenium may be dependent on the dose, the route of administration, and whether administered with other nutrients and the patient population studied. Currently, there are few small studies evaluating the pharmacokinetic profile of intravenous (IV) selenium in SIRS, and therefore more data are necessary, particularly in patients with MOD, including those with renal dysfunction. According to current knowledge, high‐dose pentahydrate sodium selenite could be given as an IV bolus injection (1000–2000 µg), which causes transient pro‐oxidant, cytotoxic, and anti‐inflammatory effects, and then followed by a continuous infusion of 1000–1600 µg/d for up to 10–14 days. Nonetheless, the optimum dose and efficacy still remain controversial and need to be definitively established.
Teachers’ and parents’ views on the Internet and social media usage by pupils with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Molin Martin , Sorbring Emma , Löfgren-Mårtenson Lotta
Published: December 2014

This article reports experiences from a Swedish study, discussing teachers’ and parents’ views on how young people with intellectual disabilities use the Internet and social media. Five semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with teachers ( n = 8) in special programmes in upper secondary schools for pupils with intellectual disabilities and parents ( n = 5) of pupils in the same form of schooling, and they were analysed with thematic analysis. Teachers more strongly emphasize a pupil’s use of the Internet for interactive purposes. Parents had expectations that the Internet could be a tool for gaining more awareness of one’s own disability and a way to meet other peer group pupils. Teachers’ and parents’ perspectives on the Internet and social media usage are important since it is imperative to show how support can be provided for young people with intellectual disabilities.
Winners and Losers during the Great Recession
Authors: Singh Amrik , Dev Chekitan S.
Published: December 2014

One of the factors that separated winning hotels from losers in the recession was the hotels’ management of marketing expenses. By matching a group of 100 winners to 106 losers, based on high or low financial performance during the nadir of the recent recession, the study highlights the effects of marketing expenses as one primary driver of revenue and profit. The study compares the two groups’ revenue and profitability metrics to determine the two groups’ financial performance as the recession wore on. The results of this study show significant differences between winners and losers when measured by top-line indicators (Average Daily Rate [ADR], RevPAR, TRevPAR) and profitability (GOPPAR and NOIPAR). Winners were also found to spend significantly more on marketing than losers. The relationship between marketing expenditures and performance is significantly positive, with franchise expenses and other sales expenses emerging as the most important determinants of RevPAR, GOPPAR, and NOIPAR. In particular, these results highlight the importance of personal sales efforts, including promotions, familiarization trips, trade shows, and the training of sales personnel, personal sales visits to clients, and use of outside sales representatives to help hotels thrive in a recession. These data lead to the conclusion that firms that “invest” in marketing, especially in tough times, can achieve a payoff via various revenue drivers (e.g., trade shows) and will realize gains beyond just the short term.
Investigation of Chinese University Students’ Attributions of English Language Learning
Authors: Lu Jinjin , Woodcock Stuart , Jiang Han
Published: December 2014

Despite the importance of developing students’ learning autonomy in Chinese schools similar to Western cultured schools, many concerns are raised regarding the influence and effectiveness that learner autonomy has on students’ academic achievements. The aim of this study was to identify the attribution patterns of Chinese university students for success and failure toward students who learnt through autonomy learning (student-centered approaches) compared with students who learnt through teacher-centered approaches. Within this study, mixed research methods were adopted, and students used a reflective method to distinguish whether they were taught English through a traditional or student-centered method. The findings of the study reveal that there are no significant differences in attributional patterns between students who had learnt in high school through autonomous learning and those who learnt through teacher-centered approaches. The findings have implications for policy and practice in the Chinese Ministry of Education system and recommendations for future research.
Deep sequencing of multiple regions of glial tumors reveals spatial heterogeneity for mutations in clinically relevant genes
Authors: Kumar Akash , Boyle Evan A , Tokita Mari , Mikheev Andrei M , Sanger Michelle C , Girard Emily , Silber John R , Gonzalez-Cuyar Luis F , Hiatt Joseph B , Adey Andrew , Lee Choli , Kitzman Jacob O , Born Donald E , Silbergeld Daniel L , Olson James M , Rostomily Robert C , Shendure Jay
Published: December 2014

Background

The extent of intratumoral mutational heterogeneity remains unclear in gliomas, the most common primary brain tumors, especially with respect to point mutation. To address this, we applied single molecule molecular inversion probes targeting 33 cancer genes to assay both point mutations and gene amplifications within spatially distinct regions of 14 glial tumors.

Results

We find evidence of regional mutational heterogeneity in multiple tumors, including mutations in TP53 and RB1 in an anaplastic oligodendroglioma and amplifications in PDGFRA and KIT in two glioblastomas (GBMs). Immunohistochemistry confirms heterogeneity of TP53 mutation and PDGFRA amplification. In all, 3 out of 14 glial tumors surveyed have evidence for heterogeneity for clinically relevant mutations.

Conclusions

Our results underscore the need to sample multiple regions in GBM and other glial tumors when devising personalized treatments based on genomic information, and furthermore demonstrate the importance of measuring both point mutation and copy number alteration while investigating genetic heterogeneity within cancer samples.
Metal artifact reduction in patients with dental implants using multispectral three-dimensional data acquisition for hybrid PET/MRI
Authors: Gunzinger Jeanne M , Delso Gaspar , Boss Andreas , Porto Miguel , Davison Helen , von Schulthess Gustav K , Huellner Martin , Stolzmann Paul , Veit-Haibach Patrick , Burger Irene A
Published: December 2014

Background

Hybrid positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) shows high potential for patients with oropharyngeal cancer. Dental implants can cause substantial artifacts in the oral cavity impairing diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, we evaluated new MRI sequences with multi-acquisition variable-resonance image combination (MAVRIC SL) in comparison to conventional high-bandwidth techniques and in a second step showed the effect of artifact size on MRI-based attenuation correction (AC) with a simulation study.

Methods

Twenty-five patients with dental implants prospectively underwent a trimodality PET/CT/MRI examination after informed consent was obtained under the approval of the local ethics committee. A conventional 3D gradient-echo sequence (LAVA-Flex) commonly used for MRI-based AC of PET (acquisition time of 14 s), a T1w fast spin-echo sequence with high bandwidth (acquisition time of 3.2 min), as well as MAVRIC SL sequence without and with increased phase acceleration (MAVRIC, acquisition time of 6 min; MAVRIC-fast, acquisition time of 3.5 min) were applied. The absolute and relative reduction of the signal void artifact was calculated for each implant and tested for statistical significance using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The effect of artifact size on PET AC was simulated in one case with a large tumor in the oral cavity. The relative difference of the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) in the tumor was calculated for increasing artifact sizes centered over the second molar.

Results

The absolute reduction of signal void from LAVA-Flex sequences to the T1-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE) sequences was 416 mm2 (range 4 to 2,010 mm2) to MAVRIC 481 mm2 (range 12 to 2,288 mm2) and to MAVRIC-fast 486 mm2 (range 39 to 2,209 mm2). The relative reduction in signal void was significantly improved for both MAVRIC and MAVRIC-fast compared to T1 FSE (−75%/− 78% vs. − 62%, p < 0.001 for both). The relative error for SUVmax was negligible for artifacts of 0.5-cm diameter (−0.1%), but substantial for artifacts of 5.2-cm diameter (−33%).

Conclusions

MAVRIC-fast could become useful for artifact reduction in PET/MR for patients with dental implants. This might improve diagnostic accuracy especially for patients with tumors in the oropharynx and substantially improve accuracy of PET quantification.
Immediate and delayed effects of growth conditions on ageing parameters in nestling zebra finches
Authors: Reichert Sophie , Criscuolo François , Zahn Sandrine , Arrivé Mathilde , Bize Pierre , Massemin Sylvie
Published: December 2014

Conditions experienced during development and growth are of crucial importance as they can have significant influence on the optimisation of life histories. Indeed, the ability of an organism to grow fast and achieve a large body size often confers short and long term fitness benefits. However, there is good evidence that organisms do not grow at their maximal rates as growth rates seem to have potential costs on subsequent lifespan. Several proximate causes of such a reduced lifespan might be involved. Among them, one emerging hypothesis is that growth impacts adult survival and/or longevity through a shared, endpoint, ageing mechanism: telomere erosion. In this study, we manipulated brood size in order to investigate if rapid growth (chicks in reduced broods) is effectively done at the cost of a short (end of growth) and long term (at adulthood) increase of oxidative damage and telomere loss. Contrary to what we expected, chicks from the enlarged broods displayed more oxidative damage and had shorter telomeres at the end of the growth period and at adulthood. Our study extends the understanding of the proximate mechanisms involved in the trade-off between growth and ageing. It highlights that adverse environmental conditions during growth can come at a cost via transient increased oxidative stress and pervasive eroded telomeres. Indeed, it suggests that telomeres are not only controlled by intrinsic growth rates per se but may also be under the control of some extrinsic environmental factors that may get our understanding of the growth ageing interaction more complicated.
Behavioral correction to prevent overhydration and increase survival by larvae of the net-spinning caddisflies in relation to water flow
Authors: Yoder Jay A. , Benoit Joshua B. , Nelson Blake W. , Main Leighanne R. , Bossley Jon P.
Published: December 2014

We report behavioral regulation of body water content in caddisfly larvae, Hydropsyche morosa and Cheumatopsyche pettiti, by selecting microhabitats with different water flow rates. The purpose was to examine features necessary for survival in the same apparent habitat, because both co-exist in riffle areas of freshwater streams. Both species are highly sensitive to water loss due to high water loss rates and depend on immersion in fresh water (hypo-osmotic) to maintain water stores. In contrast to C. pettiti, H. morosa is larger, retains water more effectively, and features reduced water loss rates with suppressed activation energies. When H. morosa was confined to areas of low or no water flow, overhydration led to rapid mortality, whereas the same conditions favored water balance maintenance and survival in C. pettiti. In attraction bioassays, H. morosa moved and remained within areas of high water flow and C. pettiti preferred areas with low water flow. Because water flow rates are unlikely to directly impact water gain, the mechanism responsible for increased survival and water balance maintenance is likely related to the impact of water flow on oxygen availability or differences in feeding ecology.
Cortisol modulates vasotocinergic and isotocinergic pathways in the gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Cádiz Laura , Román-Padilla Javier , Gozdowska Magdalena , Kulczykowska Ewa , Martínez-Rodríguez Gonzalo , Mancera Juan Miguel , Martos-Sitcha Juan Antonio
Published: December 2014

In the present study, we assess the responses of the vasotocinergic and isotocinergic systems to chronic stress induced by cortisol administration in the gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Pituitary and plasma arginine vasotocin (AVT) and isotocin (IT) levels, as well as hypothalamic pro-vasotocin (pro-VT) and pro-isotocin (pro-IT) mRNA expression levels, were analysed. In addition, the mRNA levels of three receptors, AVTR type V1a2, AVTR type V2 and ITR, were analysed in several target organs associated with the following physiological processes: i) integration and control (hypothalamus), ii) metabolism and its control (liver and hypothalamus), iii) osmoregulation (gills), and iv) stress response (head kidney). Specimens were injected intraperitoneally with slow-release implants (5 µL·g-1 body weight) containing coconut oil alone (control group) or with cortisol (50 µg·g-1 body weight; cortisol group). Both AVT and IT synthesis and release were correlated with plasma cortisol values, suggesting a potential interaction between both hormonal systems and cortisol administration. Our results suggest that the activation of hepatic metabolism, as well as the hypothalamic control of metabolic processes, provide the energy necessary to overcome stress, which could be partly mediated by AVTRs and ITR. Up-regulation of branchial AVT and IT receptor expression following cortisol treatment suggests an involvement of the vasotocinergic and isotocinergic systems in the regulation of ion channels/transporters during stressful situations. Finally, changes in AVT and IT receptor mRNA expression in the head kidney suggest these nonapeptides participate in feedback mechanisms that regulate the synthesis/release of cortisol. Our results indicate a relationship between cortisol and both the vasotocinergic and isotocinergic systems during simulated chronic stress in Sparus aurata.
Opsins inLimuluseyes: Characterization of three visible light-sensitive opsins unique to and co-expressed in median eye photoreceptors and a peropsin/RGR that is expressed in all eyes
Authors: Battelle Barbara-Anne , Kempler Karen , Saraf Spencer R. , Marten Catherine E. , Dugger Donald R. , Spiser Daniel I. , Oakley Todd H.
Published: December 2014

The eyes of the horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus have long been used for studies of basic mechanisms of vision, and the structure and physiology of Limulus photoreceptors have been examined in detail. Less is known about the opsins Limulus photoreceptors express. We previously characterized a UV opsin (LpUVOps1) that is expressed in all three types of Limulus eyes (lateral compound eyes, median ocelli and larval eyes) and three visible light-sensitive rhabdomeric opsins (LpOps1, 2 and 5) that are expressed in Limulus lateral compound and larval eyes. Physiological studies showed that visible light-sensitive photoreceptors are also present in median ocelli, but the visible light-sensitive opsins they express were unknown. In the current study we characterize three newly-identified, visible light-sensitive rhabdomeric opsins (LpOps6, 7, and 8) that are expressed in median ocelli. We show that they are ocellar-specific and that all three are co-expressed in photoreceptors distinct from those expressing LpUVOps1. Our current findings show that the pattern of opsin expression in Limulus eyes is much more complex than previously thought and extend our previous observations of opsin co-expression in visible light-sensitive Limulus photoreceptors. We also characterize a Limulus peropsin/RGR (LpPerOps1). We examine the phylogenetic relationship of LpPerOps1 with other peropsins and RGRs, demonstrate that LpPerOps1 transcripts are expressed in each of the three types of Limulus eyes and show that the encoded protein is expressed in membranes of cells closely associated with photoreceptors in each eye type. These finding suggest that peropsin was in the opsin repertoire of euchelicerates.
High Efficiency and Robust Performance of Organo Lead Perovskite Solar Cells with Large Grain Absorbers Prepared in Ambient Air Conditions
Authors: Wu Kuan-Lin , Kogo Atsushi , Sakai Nobuya , Ikegami Masashi , Miyasaka Tsutomu
Published: December 2014

Organo lead halide perovskite absorbers were prepared by a two-step solution-processing method under ambient air conditions. Large cuboid crystalline grains that form a porous surface in junction with an organic hole conductor enable power conversion efficiency up to 15.3%, exhibiting minimal J–V hysteresis and stable performance against light intensity change. The cell without encapsulation showed sufficiently high stability under exposure to air.
Temperature-programmed Desorption of Oxygen from La–Sr–Co–Fe Perovskite in Atmospheres with Varying Oxygen Partial Pressure
Authors: Nishibori Maiko , Ankei Naoki , Uchiyama Tomoki , Kamitani Kazutaka , Kato Kazuo , Teraoka Yasutake
Published: December 2014

A temperature-programmed desorption technique under atmospheres with variable partial pressure of oxygen has been developed using a homemade fixed-bed flow reactor equipped with a yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) oxygen sensor as a detector of oxygen desorbed from a sample. Its significance has been verified for the particular catalytic material of La–Sr–Co–Fe–O perovskite-type oxide.
A Facile Fabrication for Amphiphobic Aluminum Surface
Authors: Jiang Ting , Guo Zhiguang
Published: December 2014

Superamphiphobic surfaces have advantages over common superhydrophobic surfaces because of their superrepellency for both water and oil. Besides, Al is a common metal and widely used in many areas, such as the aerospace and radio industry. A facial chemical etching and fluorination method was developed to fabricate superhydrophobic and superoleophobic surface (the water contact angle is 154.9° and the glycerin contact angle is 147.9°) on aluminum substrate. The resultant surfaces were characterized by optical methods, water contact angle (CA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The effect of etching time on the wettability was also discussed, which also indicated that surface roughness is an important factor for surface wettability since the etching time can affect it.
Organizational Control, Incentive Contracts, and Knowledge Transfer in Offshore Business Process Outsourcing
Authors: Liu Ying , Aron Ravi
Published: December 2014

We study the determinants of output quality in offshore business process outsourcing (BPO). Firms can exert control over output quality through incentives formally written into contracts and allow both clients and providers to manage the offshore agents creating a dual governance mechanism. We use a combination of two data sets, a cross sectional data set of 139 processes and a balanced panel data set comprising 21 processes with 36 observations per process, to investigate the impact of different factors on the quality of output of offshore BPO providers. Our findings point to the strong moderating effect of process codifiability on the dual governance mechanism. Process codifiability is not only associated with higher output quality, it also moderates the functioning of the dual governance mechanism and determines when the managerial efforts of the client and provider are substitutes and when they are complementary. We show that contractual incentives tied to quality are generally associated with a higher quality of output. Finally, we show that the use of process-level inter-organizational information systems also has a positive impact on the output quality of offshore BPO providers.
Greenwash vs. Brownwash: Exaggeration and Undue Modesty in Corporate Sustainability Disclosure
Authors: Kim Eun-Hee , Lyon Thomas P.
Published: December 2014

Corporate greenwashing has accelerated in recent years, bringing in its wake growing skepticism about corporate green claims. Although a theory of the drivers and deterrents of greenwashing has begun to emerge, it is static in nature and does not incorporate the full range of ways in which firms can misrepresent their environmental performance. Our contribution is threefold. First, we extend the theory of organizational information disclosure to incorporate the possibility of undue modesty about a firm’s environmental, social, and governance practices. Second, we hypothesize about the drivers of exaggeration and undue modesty based on which of a firm’s stakeholders are salient at a given point in time; to do so, we place the firm within a dynamic context that has largely been missing in the prior literature. Third, we test our hypotheses using a data set that allows us to directly compare corporate green claims against actual performance. Results reveal that corporate output growth, deregulation, and low profits under deregulation significantly affect the choice between greenwashing and brownwashing. The effects of growth and profits are mitigated by external scrutiny.
Oral cancer screening: improving early detection
Authors: Prince Pamela
Published: December 2014

Through screening patients, the dental team has a chance to play their part in reducing the incidence of this disease, which can affect the lips, tongue and mouth
The professional image of dental nursing
Authors: Reed Debbie
Published: December 2014

A professional narrative is a collection of stories created to illustrate the work of professionals. For dental nurses, constructing a professional identity, and gaining recognition by society, can be achieved through creating a professional voice that tells stories about the valuable work dental nurses do.
Looking to the future: qualifications and career pathways
Authors: Singh Parmjit
Published: December 2014

This is the second article of a two-part series that will discuss the changing role of the dental nurse and the new opportunities that these changes will bring. This article will examine how qualifications and different career options can transform dental nurses' career progression
Innovations in practice: the inpatient liaison nurse role in endoscopy
Authors: Barkatali Rukhsana , Taggart Nicola , Gaglia Asmina , Dahill Jenny , Haslam Neil , Sarkar Sanchoy
Published: December 2014

It is quite challenging for an endoscopy department to deal with an increase in the number of outpatient endoscopies. Often, the inpatient service is carried out on an ad hoc basis and the patient lists are adjusted according to outpatient capacity. This article reviews the effect of increasing outpatient endoscopy numbers on the endoscopy unit at the Royal Liverpool Broadgreen University Hospital, and the appointment of a gastroenterology nurse specialist inpatient liaison as a method to improve the unit's efficiency. The article analyses the need for the role, the advantages its introduction has brought about, and how it has led to enhanced productivity in the respective endoscopy unit.
Corneal transplant tissue—before it reaches the operating room
Authors: Machin Heather
Published: December 2014

Corneal tissue that is presented to the surgical team in the operating theatre must be approved for use during site surgery safety checks prior to transplantation and goes through a rigorous process before being released from the eye bank. The donor's next of kin and a knowledgeable historian, such as a GP or spiritual leader, also go through a delicate and detailed process to ensure the wishes of the deceased are honoured during what is often a time of immense grief.

This article will explore the journey of corneal eye tissue from the donor to the recipient, and will also discuss: grief support; eye recovery (retrieval); regulations and processing requirements; and release criteria. While an international perspective will be taken, it is acknowledged that the author's predominant reference point regarding the regulations and processing of eye tissue will be based on those of the Australian and New Zealand system. Therefore, readers are encouraged to consult regulations specific to their country.
Research priorities relating to eye movement disorders after stroke: Report of an expert panel
Authors: Pollock Alex , Hazelton Christine , Campbell Pauline
Published: December 2014

Background

Eye movement disorders may affect over 70% of stroke survivors, negatively impacting on function and rehabilitation. On 20 September 2013, the Scottish Vision and Stroke Network hosted a meeting of experts in the field of vision, eye movement disorders, stroke care and research, with the aim of agreeing shared research priorities relating to eye movement disorders after stroke.

Methods

Research priorities were established based on James Lind Alliance methods. Prior to the workshop, a request for unanswered research questions was circulated in the UK via email. Workshop participants worked in three independent groups to discuss each of the submitted questions and reach an agreement on ranked priorities. Ranked questions from the groups were merged and questions with the highest rankings identified. Disagreements between the rankings of each group were highlighted. Participants then discussed and reached an agreement on the wording and prioritisation of the questions ranked highest by all three groups.

Results

Eight top research questions were identified, which included three broad areas: i) prevalence and incidence of eye movement disorders after stroke; ii) the development of effective screening and assessment measures to accurately identify eye movement disorders following stroke; iii) the functional and social impact of eye movement disorders in stroke survivors.

Conclusions

Several projects are currently ongoing and planned across the UK, and research priorities are likely change as evidence is produced, questions are answered and more uncertainties identified. To inform timely and effective treatments and services, clinicians, researchers and research funding bodies should work collaboratively to address research that is agreed to be of the highest priority.
Grief experiences of nurses in Ireland who have cared for children with an intellectual disability who have died
Authors: MacDermott Ciara , Keenan Paul Michael
Published: December 2014

Background

The personal grief experience of nurses who have cared for children with an intellectual disability who have died is little understood.

Method

This descriptive qualitative study was initiated to ascertain nurses' knowledge and personal experience of grief and how this is managed. Semi-structured interview was the method used to collect data from eight nurses who had cared for a child with an intellectual disability who had died. A pragmatic approach to qualitative data analysis was adopted.

Results

Of the eight main themes identified, the four most prevalent are discussed in detail: grief, relationship with the child, end of life, and support. The findings demonstrate that nurses have a good understanding of grief, but the way they experience and manage it varies.

Conclusion

The study suggests that nurses who have cared for children with an intellectual disability who have died may experience disenfranchised grief. Nurses seek support from a variety of sources. Organisational support is important for nurses following the death of a child for whom they have provided care.
Politics and palliative care: Belize
Authors: Smyth Dion
Published: December 2014

Dion Smyth's review of the internet for palliative nursing
Like a duck to water
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: December 2014

Taking a look at different birds in books and rhymes, Viv Hampshire offers activities that will prompt children to draw comparisons and to gain deeper knowledge of the natural world.
Everything has rhythm
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: December 2014

The sounds surrounding us often form patterns. Encourage children to listen and to respond to the rhythms of the sounds in their environment using Debbie Chalmers’ activity ideas.
Viewpoint
Authors: Nason Catriona , Brodie Kathy
Published: December 2014

Kathy Brodie provides ideas for creating inviting, cosy spaces in your setting where children can relax and engage in sustained shared thinking. It just takes a bit of imagination and some small adjustments, she says.
Travel to a fantasy island
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: December 2014

Traditional fairy tales are full of fantasy creatures, some good, some bad. The poem Flights of Fantasy invites children to imagine these creatures leaving the stories to travel to an island where they can party.
Surgical ward rounds: a missed opportunity for multidisciplinary working?
Authors: Savage L , Vyas V , Akerele E , Klein M
Published: December 2014

While guidelines have been established for doctors’ and nurses’ ward rounds, there is no protocol in place for surgeons.
The Safety-Valve: Discretion to Admit Hearsay Evidence in Criminal Proceedings
Authors: Stockdale Michael , Piasecki Emma
Published: December 2014

Section 114(1)(d) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 gave the criminal courts discretion to admit hearsay evidence in the interests of justice. The Law Commission envisaged that the courts would only exercise this inclusionary discretion in exceptional circumstances. Whilst the admissibility threshold created by s. 114(1)(d) is not as high as the Law Commission had intended, the recent jurisprudence suggests that the courts will exercise the s. 114(1)(d) discretion much as the Law Commission had anticipated except that, contrary to the Law Commission's intentions, there is authority for the proposition that where a confession is admitted under s. 114(1)(d) it may be admissible against persons other than its maker and there is also authority for the proposition that the hearsay evidence of a witness who cannot be identified is not admissible under s. 114(1)(d).
Jordi de Manuel i el futur: la justa transgressió
Authors: Villalonga Anna Maria
Published: December 2014

Article que analitza l’obra de Jordi de Manuel, creador de la nissaga de l’inspector de policia Marc Sergiot. Una veu original, plenament consolidada, que representa la modernitat, la permeabilitat i la capacitat de reinvenció del gènere en llengua catalana. Una producció arriscada, que adquireix l’excel·lència en la seva dimensió de conjunt, com un corpus complet i complex d’indubtable densitat intel·lectual.
Ferran Torrent, un viatge a l’heterodòxia
Authors: Robles Andrea
Published: December 2014

Ferran Torrent ha conjuminat les paraules novel·la negra, València i èxit. Hem accentuat la seua capacitat per a construir els personatges i diàlegs, la ironia i l’escepticisme de plantejament orquestral, o la capacitat de descriure la societat valenciana fàcilment identificable pels seus lectors. Tanmateix, el que volem assenyalar com un element transversal a tota la fàbrica literària de Torrent, és el caràcter heterodox amb què mamprèn la seua producció, i l'inconformisme que en dificulta l’encasellament. Si Ferran Torrent ha estat qualificat com a escriptor de novel·la negra, només les sis primeres novel·les poden rebre aquest nom, i encara així, per una voluntat d’adscripció externa o formal més que pel resultat atmosfèric de tot plegat, el qual deriva substancialment cap a la sàtira o la memòria, la subjectivitat, l’autoficció, el costumisme o la història: petjades que resseguirem per traçar els itineraris de les tipologies d’un autor que ha fet de la versatilitat emblema d’una obra rica i complexa. Proposem revisar l’obra de Torrent seguint el rastre de les floracions que determina el pes específic de cadascun dels elements abans esmentats i que, en definitiva, ens ofereix un mapa mitjanament coherent quant a la producció cronològica i grupal, amb la trilogia com el motlle més adient per a distingir-ne les parts.
Maria-Antònia Oliver o el plaer de narrar en femení
Authors: Casadesús Alejandro
Published: December 2014

Maria-Antònia Oliver és una figura cabdal en la història de la novel·la policíaca en llengua catalana. Amb un personatge principal innovador en el panorama literari català dels anys vuitanta, Oliver destaca per una sèrie d’aspectes com són el seu personatge principal, feminista i representant del hard-boiled i la forta crítica social, especialment centrada en l’illa de Mallorca, aspectes que són objecte d’estudi en aquest article. Temes com el feminisme, l’impacte social del turisme o la situació de la llengua catalana a les Balears formen part de les seves obres i demostren el compromís social de l’autora mallorquina.
Jaume Fuster, la ficció sense fronteres
Authors: Aritzeta Margarida
Published: December 2014

L’article valora l’aportació de l’escriptor Jaume Fuster al gènere policíac en llengua catalana, del qual és un dels precursors. Fuster col·labora a a assentar les bases del gènere negre des de la seva posició com a director editorial, com a escriptor i com a popularitzador als mitjans de comunicació. L’article analitza les fonts de la narrativa de l’autor, els seus referents i els seus procediments d’escriptura. Explica que Fuster inventa uns tipus i un llenguatge que han fet fortuna en el patrimoni literari català. Fa notar que la intertextualitat que practica es converteix en interdiscursivitat: proposa productes narratius que inclouen formes narratives mixtes i llenguatges diversos. Juga amb l’hipertext, amb les tecnologies de la informació, amb la participació del receptor. A la manera dels autors nord-americans del hard boiled crime fiction que admira, i als quals fa repetits homenatges en les seves obres, escriu relats que es publiquen en llibres, tenen forma de guions per a la ràdio o el cinema, o redacta capítols que es converteixen en sèries narratives per als periòdics, o concursos per a la televisió. Afirma que no hi ha distinció entre Literatura i Literatura de Gènere i defensa per damunt de tot el Gènere Negre de qualitat.
Rafael Tasis, els fonaments d’un gènere
Authors: Balcells Salvador
Published: December 2014

Rafael Tasis fou un escriptor català pioner de la novel·la policíaca o detectivesca. Va ser també un destacat crític literari, llibreter, periodista i activista polític. És autor d’una trilogia formada per les obres La bíblia valenciana, Es hora de plegar i Un crim al Paralelo. Les seves aportacions teòriques a la novel·la i, especialment, a la de gènere, van ser de molta envergadura, demostració de la seva enorme capacitat de treball. Tasis va teoritzar sobre el gènere policíac i s’adonà, abans que ningú a Catalunya, de la importància que agafaria la novel·la negra americana. També va apostar per un escriptor inèdit, Manuel de Pedrolo, de qui va considerar que seria el novel·lista català més considerable del segle XX. Com a novel·lista i crític literari va donar testimoni de la vida i els ambients barcelonins i de l’atractiu de la utilització del material urbà de Barcelona com a argument de novel·les. La figura de Tasis respon a la de l'intel·lectual preocupat pels afers públics i, de manera més concreta, a la de l'escriptor en acte de servei permanent.
Homenatge a Emili Teixidor. Laura Sants: la novel·la que vingué després de Pa negre
Authors: Escolano i López Josep Manuel
Published: December 2014

Emili Teixidor (Roda de Ter, 1933–Barcelona, 2012) va faltar el 19 de juny de 2012. Aquest escrit fa un perfil de l’autor, conegut pel gran públic arran de la publicació de l’obra Pa negre (2003) però amb una carrera ben extensa com a escriptor. En aquesta ocasió transcrivim i adaptem la presentació de l’obra Laura Sants (2007) realitzada a la Casa Fuster de Sueca al maig de 2007. Es tracta d’una ressenya de Laura Sants viscuda com una experiència de lectura personal, compartida, primerament, amb el públic assistent a l’acte, i posteriorment, mitjançant aquest escrit, com a homenatge a un escriptor que ha oferit als lectors històries apassionants i apassionades al llarg d’una vida de dedicació plena a la literatura i a la cultura catalanes. Aquest text és un reconeixement merescut a un gran creador d’històries amb sentit i sentiment, a un dels més grans escriptors de la literatura catalana contemporània.
Ressenya de Carles Riba i Joan Maragall, o la moral de la paraula, de Jaume Medina (Llengua Nacional, Cornellà, 2011, 265 pàgines)
Authors: Torné i Teixidó Ramon
Published: December 2014

Ressenya de: Carles Riba i Joan Maragall, o la moral de la paraula, de Jaume Medina (Llengua Nacional, Cornellà, 2011, 265 pàgines).
The Relevance of the Irrelevant Beginning
Authors: Davis Philip J.
Published: December 2014

There are many paradoxes associated with the concept of infinity. I would like to set forth and comment on one which, though well-known in principle, I have not seen stated in the following form.
ANÁLISE DO MEDICAMENTO LOSARTANA POTÁSSICA MANIPULADO EM FARMÁCIAS DE MONTES CLAROS-MG
Authors: Royo Vanessa de Andrade , Saldanha Keyla Laisa Araújo e , Xavier Meryelle Patrícia , Freitas Ronilson Ferreira , Menezes Elytânia Veiga
Published: December 2014

Losartana Potássica é um exemplo clássico de antagonistas dos receptores da AT1 ativos por via oral,e é utilizada no tratamento da Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica. A fórmula manipulada em farmácias magistrais deve conter a quantidade de fármaco exata em todas as preparações farmacêuticas. Assim, o objetivo desse estudo foi analisar cápsulas de Losartana Potássica manipuladas em farmácias de Montes Claros, MG. As amostras de Losartana Potássica 50 mg foram adquiridas comercialmente em três farmácias de manipulação escolhidas aleatoriamente. Para a determinação do peso médio e tempo de desintegração da cápsula, foi seguida a Farmacopeia Brasileira. O peso das cápsulas variou de 0,136 g a 0,147 g para a mesma prescrição de 50 mg. O teste para desintegração da cápsula conforme descrito na Farmacopeia se encontrou dentro dos parâmetros estabelecidos.
Fleischkonsum im 21. Jahrhundert ‐ ein Thema für die humanökologische Forschung
Authors: Stoll-Kleemann Susanne
Published: December 2014

Der hohe Fleischkonsum in Industrieländern und ein steigender Verbrauch in Transitionsländern haben Auswirkungen auf Umwelt, Gesundheit, die wirtschaftlich-soziale Situation von Menschen in ärmeren Ländern sowie die Ernährungssicherheit. Die humanökologische
Forschung ist gefordert
Mode und Ökologie: Schnittmuster mit Webfehlern
Authors: Weller Ines , Stöwer Lene
Published: December 2014

Although in recent years there has been some movement in the field of eco fashion, sustainable clothing still remains a ,,niche market“. This paper summarizes the results of a research project analyzing the interrelations between fashion and ecology. With reference to the ,,circuit
of culture“, the project explores how these interrelations have changed as seen from the perspectives of textile production, purchasing, certification and consumption as well as environmental research and consumer protection. The results indicate that, on the one hand, fashion needs
are compatible with ecological requirements. On the other hand, the different actors involved were observed as continuing to repro duce the unfashionable image of eco clothing. Changing this process of the cultural production of meaning continues to be a key challenge in the field of eco fashion.
Is conceptual blending the key to the mystery of human evolution and cognition?
Authors: Glebkin Vladimir
Published: December 2014

This study addresses conceptual blending theory, as originated by Fauconnier and Turner, focusing on their view of the development of double-scope blending as the cause for the origin of language and forms of culture. The author raises certain criticisms of the theory's underpinnings and methodology. In particular, he points to a lack of cultural-historical analysis and a gap between some of the predictions of conceptual blending theory and the data of real-time experiments. It is shown that a view of blending as an important tool to adapt knowledge to the experience of people is more correct than its interpretation as a basic instrument for the creation of new knowledge.
Cognitive grammar, speech acts, and interpersonal dynamics: A study of two directive constructions in Polish
Authors: Kochańska Agata
Published: December 2014

The present study offers an analysis of two directive constructions in Polish: the V2sg.imp.imperf + midat ‘me’ construction and the (Proszę ‘I request’) + Vinf construction. The two constructions are problematic for speech act theory in that they may be used in a range of different contexts, where they convey different illocutionary forces and produce different interpersonal effects. Hence, it remains unclear how, or indeed whether at all, the illocutionary force and the interpersonal effects of utterances employing the two constructions may be tied to their respective grammatical make-ups. This, in turn, raises two related questions: (i) what motivates the use of each construction in specific contexts? and (ii) how can hearers interpret the construction's specific import in specific interactive circumstances?

The claim made in this study is that each construction imposes a particular schematic construal upon the conceived scene, including also ground elements, such as the speaker, the hearer, and their interactive circumstances. The conventional schematic meaning of each construction is motivated by the meanings of its components. Being schematic, the construal conventionally associated with each construction is compatible with a whole range of specific actual interactive circumstances. However, in each specific usage event the intended specific import of the construction may easily be interpreted, given the interactive and interpersonal information saliently present in the context.
Crystal structure of bis(dicyclohexylammonium) 4-(2-carboxylatophenyl)- 3,5-dimethyl-1,2,6-thiadiazin-2-ide 1,1-dioxide methanol monosolvate, C37H62N4O5S
Authors: Bhatt Nilay , Bhatt Pralav , Govender Thavendran , Kruger Hendrik G. , Maguire Glenn E. M.
Published: December 2014

C37H62N4O5S, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 10.6902(4) Å, b = 12.9126(4) Å, c = 15.1755(5) Å, α = 92.277(2)°, β = 104.928(2)°, γ = 111.714(2)°, V = 1859.1 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0380, wRref(F2) = 0.0999, T = 173 K.
Manipulation of supramolecular 2D assembly of functional dyes toward artificial light-harvesting systems
Authors: Ishida Yohei
Published: December 2014

In recent years, excellent research has revealed that light-harvesting systems (LHSs) are composed of beautifully aligned chlorophyll molecules; the regulated alignment of chlorophylls is responsible for the efficient and selective light-harvesting energy transfer processes in purple bacteria. This finding led to the construction of a regularly arranged assembly of functional dyes as a step toward fabricating artificial LHSs. While most approaches toward the construction of dye assemblies have depended on molecular interactions such as covalent, coordination, and hydrogen bonds, my approach involves guest–host interactions using an inorganic nanosheet as the host material. This short review presents the construction of a 2D dye assembly and its effective utilization in artificial light-harvesting applications. Owing to the highly stable and uniform 2D alignment of functional dyes on inorganic nanosheets, nearly 100 % singlet–singlet energy transfer and efficient light-harvesting were achieved. I believe that the results presented herein will contribute to the construction of efficient photochemical reaction systems in supramolecular host–guest assemblies, which may facilitate the realization of artificial photosynthesis.
Asset pricing with flexible beliefs
Authors: Axioglou Christos , Skouras Spyros
Published: December 2014

We develop a present-value asset pricing model with an econometrically useful representation that accommodates a plethora of stylized assumptions about beliefs. Using 20th century S&P500 data we use our model to compare the empirical fit of belief assumptions associated with rational expectations, asymmetic information, learning, behavioral effects and evolution. Among these, asymmetric information with evolution is particularly useful both in terms of statistical criteria and in terms of ability to explain the equity premium, excess volatility and predictability of returns. Our work suggests that popular relaxations of rationality can easily lead to econometric representations that may be impossible to work with in empirical research. Furthermore, replication of stylized facts may be too weak a requirement when evaluating such models. Fortunately, there exist simple relaxations of rationality that are sufficient to drastically improve the empirical fit of models with full rationality.
Stent-assisted coiling for the treatment of ruptured micro-intracranial wide-necked aneurysms
Authors: Yu Ming , Liu Fangjiu , Jiang Shijie , Nie Bengang
Published: December 2014

The stent-assisted coil embolization technique has been increasingly used in the clinic, but its efficacy and safety have yet to be assessed. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of stent-assisted coiling in the treatment of micro-intracranial wide-necked aneurysms.

Between May 2007 and November 2011, a total of 35 micro-intracranial wide-necked ruptured aneurysms were occluded with Enterprise stent-assisted coils. The patients were followed up for two years.

Stent-assisted coiling was performed successfully in all cases, and stent placement was satisfactory without any complications. Of 35 aneurysms, 13 (37.1%) were completely occluded, ten (28.5%) had residual necks, and 12 (34.2%) had residual aneurysms. In the two-year follow-up, no aneurysm rupture occurred and no patients had nerve dysfunction. All patients were reviewed by digital subtraction angiography or computed tomography angiography. One patient had a residual neck (2.8%), and no patients experienced stent restenosis or thromboembolic events.

In general, stent-assisted coiling is effective and safe for the treatment of micro-intracranial wide-necked aneurysms.
Embolization of a superior sagittal sinus dural arteriovenous fistula under intrasinus balloon protection: A case report
Authors: Zhang Yongxin , Li Qiang , Huang Qing-hai
Published: December 2014

Endovascular embolization has evolved to become the primary therapeutic option for dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs). While guaranteeing complete occlusion of the fistula orifice, the goal of DAVF embolization is also to ensure the patency of normal cerebral venous drainage. This paper describes a case of successful embolization of a complex DAVF in the superior sagittal sinus with a multistaged approach using a combination of transvenous and transarterial tactics. The strategies and techniques are discussed.