bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Economic Impact of Sports Facilities on Residential Property Values
Authors: Feng Xia , Humphreys Brad
Published: February 2016

We estimate the effect of proximity to two sports facilities in Columbus, OH, on residential property values. Results from a spatial hedonic model indicate that the presence of sports facilities in Columbus have a significant, positive, and distance-decaying effect on surrounding residential housing values, supporting the idea that professional sports facilities generate intangible benefits in the local economy. Ordinary least square (OLS) overestimates the hedonic model parameters compared with maximum likelihood and spatial two-stage least squares, suggesting that spatial autocorrelation plays an important role in this setting.
miR-139 Functions as An Antioncomir to Repress Glioma Progression Through Targeting IGF-1 R, AMY-1, and PGC-1β
Authors: Wang Hong , Yan Xi , Ji Li-Ya , Ji Xi-Tuan , Wang Ping , Guo Shi-Wen , Li San-Zhong
Published: February 2016

Gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumor with poor prognosis, characterized by a highly heterogeneous cell population, extensive proliferation, and migration. A lot of molecular mechanisms regulate gliomas development and invasion, including abnormal expression of oncogenes and variation of epigenetic modification. MicroRNAs could affect cell growth and functions. Several reports have demonstrated that miR-139 plays multifunctions in kinds of solid tumors through different pathways. However, the antitumor mechanisms of this miR-139 are not unveiled in detail. In this study, we not only validated the low expression level of miR-139 in glioma tissues and cell lines but also detected the effect of miR-139 on modulating gliomas proliferation and invasion both in vitro and in vivo. We identified insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor, associate of Myc 1, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1β as direct targets of miR-139 and the levels of them were all inversely correlated with miR-139 in gliomas. Insulin like growth factor 1 receptor promoted gliomas invasion through Akt signaling and increased proliferation in the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1β-dependent way. Associate of Myc 1 also facilitated gliomas progression by activating c-Myc pathway. Overexpression of the target genes could retrieve the antitumor function of miR-139, respectively, in different degrees. The nude mice transplantation tumor experiment displayed that glioma cells stably expressed miR-139 growth much slower in vivo than the negative control cells. Taken together, these findings suggested miR-139 acted as a favorable factor against gliomas progression and uncovered a novel regulatory mechanism, which may provide a new evidenced prognostic marker and therapeutic target for gliomas.
The Impact of High-Stakes Testing on Latina/o Students’ College Aspirations
Authors: Rodriguez Jessica M. , Arellano Lucy
Published: February 2016

This study explores the influence high-stakes testing has on Latina/o student aspirations and subsequent college enrollment. It quantitatively examines the critical juncture of high school exit and college entry at a school district serving a predominately Latino population. Findings confirm a strong correlation between the math and English Language Arts exams. Furthermore, each subsequent attempt of the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) yields lower average scores. Considerations about policy and its implications at the high school level are also discussed.
Effectively Serving AB 540 and Undocumented Students at a Hispanic Serving Institution
Authors: Person Dawn , Gutierrez Keeton Rebecca , Medina Noemy , Gonzalez Jacquelyn , Minero Laura P.
Published: February 2016

This mixed-methods study examined the experiences of undocumented students at a 4-year Hispanic Serving Institution. Barriers identified by these students included a lack of resources and minimal career opportunities after graduation. Faculty and staff perceived this historically underserved population as exhibiting high levels of optimism and resilience relative to educational endeavors and challenges related to students’ undocumented status. Study findings include student, faculty, and staff recommendations for improving undocumented student experiences at a specific Hispanic Serving Institution.
Skilled Bimanual Training Drives Motor Cortex Plasticity in Children With Unilateral Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Friel Kathleen M. , Kuo Hsing-Ching , Fuller Jason , Ferre Claudio L. , Brandão Marina , Carmel Jason B. , Bleyenheuft Yannick , Gowatsky Jaimie L. , Stanford Arielle D. , Rowny Stefan B. , Luber Bruce , Bassi Bruce , Murphy David L. K. , Lisanby Sarah H. , Gordon Andrew M.
Published: February 2016

Background. Intensive bimanual therapy can improve hand function in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP). We compared the effects of structured bimanual skill training versus unstructured bimanual practice on motor outcomes and motor map plasticity in children with USCP. Objective. We hypothesized that structured skill training would produce greater motor map plasticity than unstructured practice. Methods. Twenty children with USCP (average age 9.5; 12 males) received therapy in a day camp setting, 6 h/day, 5 days/week, for 3 weeks. In structured skill training (n = 10), children performed progressively more difficult movements and practiced functional goals. In unstructured practice (n = 10), children engaged in bimanual activities but did not practice skillful movements or functional goals. We used the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA), Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) to measure hand function. We used single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation to map the representation of first dorsal interosseous and flexor carpi radialis muscles bilaterally. Results. Both groups showed significant improvements in bimanual hand use (AHA; P < .05) and hand dexterity (JTTHF; P < .001). However, only the structured skill group showed increases in the size of the affected hand motor map and amplitudes of motor evoked potentials ( P < .01). Most children who showed the most functional improvements (COPM) had the largest changes in map size. Conclusions. These findings uncover a dichotomy of plasticity: the unstructured practice group improved hand function but did not show changes in motor maps. Skill training is important for driving motor cortex plasticity in children with USCP.
How do community pharmacists make decisions? Results of an exploratory qualitative study in Ontario
Authors: Gregory Paul A.M. , Whyte Brenna , Austin Zubin
Published: February 2016

Background:

As the complexity of pharmacy practice increases, pharmacists are required to make more decisions under ambiguous or information-deficient conditions. There is scant literature examining how pharmacists make decisions and what factors or values influence their choices. The objective of this exploratory research was to characterize decision-making patterns in the clinical setting of community pharmacists in Ontario.

Methods:

The think-aloud decision-making method was used for this study. Community pharmacists with 3 or more years’ experience were presented with 2 clinical case studies dealing with challenging situations and were asked to verbally reason through their decision-making process while being probed by an interviewer for clarification, justification and further explication. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using a protocol analysis method.

Results and Discussion:

A total of 12 pharmacists participated in this study. Participants experienced cognitive dissonance in attempting to reconcile their desire for a clear and confrontation-free conclusion to the case discussion and the reality of the challenge presented within each case. Strategies for resolving this cognitive dissonance included strong emphasis on the educational (rather than decision-making) role of the pharmacist, the value of strong interpersonal relationships as a way to avoid conflict and achieve desired outcomes, the desire to seek external advice or defer to others’ authority to avoid making a decision and the use of strict interpretations of rules to avoid ambiguity and contextual interpretation. This research was neither representative nor generalizable but was indicative of patterns of decisional avoidance and fear of assuming responsibility for outcomes that warrant further investigation.

Conclusion:

The think-aloud method functioned effectively in this context and provided insights into pharmacists’ decision-making patterns in the clinical setting. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2016;149:90-98.
Transplantation of Scaffold-Free Cartilage-Like Cell-Sheets Made from Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Itokazu Maki , Wakitani Shigeyuki , Mera Hisashi , Tamamura Yoshihiro , Sato Yasushi , Takagi Mutsumi , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: February 2016

Objective

The object of this study was to determine culture conditions that create stable scaffold-free cartilage-like cell-sheets from human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and to assess their effects after transplantation into osteochondral defects in nude rats.

Design

(Experiment 1) The hBMSCs were harvested from 3 males, the proliferative and chondrogenic capacities were assessed at passage 1, and the cells were expanded in 3 different culture conditions: (1) 5% fetal bovine serum (FBS), (2) 10% FBS, and (3) 5% FBS with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). The cells were harvested and made chondrogenic pellet culture. The cell proliferation rate, glycosaminoglycan/DNA ratio, and safranin-O staining intensity of pellets cultured condition 3 were higher than those of conditions 1 and 2. (Experiment 2) The hBMSCs were expanded and passaged 3 times under culture condition 3, and fabricate the cell-sheets in chondrogenic medium either with or without FBS. The cell-sheets fabricated with FBS maintained their size with flat edges. (Experiment 3) The cell-sheets were transplanted into osteochondral defects in nude rats. Histological analysis was performed at 2, 4, and 12 weeks after surgery.

Results

The osteochondral repair was better after sheet transplantation than in the control group and significantly improved Wakitani score. Immunostaining with human-specific vimentin antibody showed that the transplanted cells became fewer and disappeared at 12 weeks.

Conclusions

These results indicate that culture with FGF-2 may help to quickly generate sufficient numbers of cells to create stable and reliable scaffold-free cartilage-like cell-sheets, which contribute to the regeneration of osteochondral defects.
Instilling Hope for Peace During Intractable Conflicts
Authors: Leshem Oded Adomi , Klar Yechiel , Flores Thomas Edward
Published: February 2016

A set of studies explored the possibility to instill hope for peace in the context of intractable conflicts. The first study examined Jewish-Israelis’ hopes for peace following a message from an out-group communicator. Results show that participants’ hopes increased after viewing a Palestinian conclude that the conflict was solvable. This held true regardless of whether the Palestinian communicator identified as a militant or a peace activist. However, Jewish-Israelis’ hopes for peace were not altered when an article, ostensibly written by conflict experts, concluded that the Palestinian–Israeli conflict was resolvable. In order to explore whether these trends are unique to group members involved in intergroup conflict, we replicated the study on uninvolved third-party participants. The article offers a comparison of belief malleability between those who experience conflict first hand and those who observe it from afar and presents strategies that may instill hope for peace in group members immersed in protracted violent conflicts.
Patients’ Evaluation of Intervention by a Medical Clown Visit or by Viewing a Humorous Film Following In Vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer
Authors: Friedler Shevach , Glasser Saralee , Levitan Gila , Hadar Dana , Sasi Bat-El , Lerner-Geva Liat
Published: February 2016

This study compared responses to an in-person clown visit and a humorous film following in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Intervention was a 10-minute clown visit (n = 101) or 10-minute humorous video clip (n = 99). Demographic and fertility-related data and preintervention anxiety scores were collected. Participants completed an Evaluation of Intervention form postintervention. There were no group differences on demographic or fertility-related data or anxiety scores. Findings indicate while participants viewed the intervention positively, the clown visit offered a higher degree of satisfaction in more patients than did the film. Median evaluation scores were significantly higher for the clown visit, specifically reducing anxiety level and being more distracting. Both groups reported that the exposure made the clinic experience more pleasant and did not bother them, and most would recommend incorporating the intervention in routine treatment. However, free-text comments clearly expressed greater enthusiasm to the in-person clown intervention than to the film.
Chondral Rib Fractures in Professional American Football
Authors: McAdams Timothy R. , Deimel Jay F. , Ferguson Jeff , Beamer Brandon S. , Beaulieu Christopher F.
Published: February 2016

Background:

Although a recognized and discussed injury, chondral rib fractures in professional American football have not been previously reported in the literature. There currently exists no consensus on how to identify and treat these injuries or the expected return to play for the athlete.

Purpose:

To present 2 cases of chondral rib injuries in the National Football League (NFL) and discuss the current practice patterns for management of these injuries among the NFL team physicians.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Two cases of NFL players with chondral rib injuries are presented. A survey regarding work-up and treatment of these injuries was completed by team physicians at the 2014 NFL Combine. Our experience in identifying and treating these injuries is presented in conjunction with a survey of NFL team physicians’ experiences.

Results:

Two cases of rib chondral injuries were diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) and treated with rest and protective splinting. Return to play was 2 to 4 weeks. NFL Combine survey results show that NFL team physicians see a mean of 4 costal cartilage injuries per 5-year period, or approximately 1 case per year per team. Seventy percent of team physicians use CT scanning and 43% use magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis of these injuries. An anesthetic block is used acutely in 57% and only electively in subsequent games by 39%.

Conclusion:

A high index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose chondral rib injuries in American football. CT scan is most commonly used to confirm diagnosis. Return to play can take up to 2 to 4 weeks with a protective device, although anesthetic blocks can be used to potentially expedite return.

Clinical Relevance:

Chondral rib injuries are common among NFL football players, while there is no literature to support proper diagnosis and treatment of these injuries or expected duration of recovery. These injuries are likely common in other contact sports and levels of competition as well. Our series combined with NFL team physician survey results can aid team physicians in identifying these injuries, obtaining useful imaging, and counseling players and coaches and the expected time of recovery.
Sleep clinical record: what differences in school and preschool children?
Authors: Villa Maria Pia , Shafiek Hanaa , Evangelisti Melania , Rabasco Jole , Cecili Manuela , Montesano Marilisa , Barreto Mario
Published: February 2016

The sleep clinical record (SCR) may be a valid method for detecting children with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This study aimed to evaluate whether there were differences in SCR depending on age and to identify the possible risk factors for OSA development.

We enrolled children with sleep disordered breathing between 2013 and 2015, and divided them according to age into preschool- and school-age groups. All patients underwent SCR and polysomnography.

OSA was detected in 81.1% and 83.6% of preschool- and school-age groups, respectively. Obesity, malocclusions, nasal septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy were significantly more prevalent in school-age children (p<0.05); however, only tonsillar hypertrophy had significant hazard ratio (2.3) for OSA development. Saddle nose, nasal hypotonia, oral breathing and tonsillar hypertrophy were significantly more prevalent for development of OSA in preschoolers (p<0.03). The SCR score was significantly higher among preschool children than in school-age children (8.4±2.22versus7.9±2.6; p=0.044). Further, SCR score >6.5 had a sensitivity of 74% in predicting OSA in preschool children with positive predictive value of 86% (p=0.0001).

Our study confirms the validity of the SCR as a screening tool for patient candidates for a PSG study for suspected OSA, in both school and preschool children.
Women’s and men’s responses to in-work benefits: the influence of children
Authors: Andrén Daniela , Andrén Thomas
Published: February 2016

This study examines how the Swedish earned income tax credit (EITC) introduced in 2007 affected the labor supply of men and women living in two-adult households and the extent to which children in the household affected the outcome. Because the EITC is non-targeted in Sweden, it is difficult to form a meaningful comparison group for a regular ex-post quasi-experimental evaluation of the reform. Therefore, a structural discrete choice labor supply model for two-adult households is formulated and used in an ex ante analysis. In a first step, estimates from the structural labor supply model are used to determine the wage elasticities of the labor supply of men and women separately, both with and without children in the household. Our results correspond to those previously reported in the academic literature: somewhat larger wage elasticities are found for women than for men, while similar labor supply responses are found for men and women when there are no children in the household. In a second step, the labor supply model is used to simulate the labor supply responses to the EITC. Our results indicate that the largest response is on the extensive margin, with an increase in the labor force participation of both men and women. While the labor supply effect on the intensive margin is smaller, it is positive for both men and women working part-time. However, the presence of children affects work hours differently for men and women working part-time or not at all. For men, the percentage change in the work hours was much higher for those living in a household without children, whereas for women, the changes are almost the same for the two types of households.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor drives neutrophil accumulation by facilitating IL-1β production in a murine model of acute gout
Authors: Galvão Izabela , Dias Ana Carolina Fialho , Tavares Livia Duarte , Rodrigues Irla Paula Stopa , Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Costa Vivian Vasconcelos , Reis Alesandra Corte , Ribeiro Oliveira Rene Donizeti , Louzada-Junior Paulo , Souza Daniele Glória , Leng Lin , Bucala Richard , Sousa Lirlândia Pires , Bozza Marcelo Torres , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Amaral Flávio Almeida
Published: February 2016

This study evaluated the role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in inflammation caused by monosodium urate crystals. The concentration of macrophage migration inhibitory factor was increased in synovial fluid of patients with acute gout, and there was a positive correlation between intra-articular macrophage migration inhibitory factor and IL-1β concentrations. In mice, the injection of monosodium urate crystals into the knee joint increased the levels of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in macrophages and in inflamed tissue. The injection of recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor into the joint of mice reproduced the inflammatory response observed in acute gout, including histologic changes, the recruitment of neutrophils, and increased levels of IL-1β and CXCL1. Importantly, the accumulation of neutrophils and the amount IL-1β in the joints were reduced in macrophage migration inhibitory factor-deficient mice when injected with monosodium urate crystals. We observed a similar effect when we blocked macrophage migration inhibitory factor with (S,R)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-5-isoxazole acetic acid or anti-macrophage migration inhibitory factor. In addition, the blockade of IL-1R and CXCR2 reduced recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor-induced neutrophil recruitment. Mechanistically, recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor is important for the synthesis of il1β mRNA in vivo and in isolated macrophages. Altogether, macrophage migration inhibitory factor promotes neutrophil accumulation and is important for IL-1β production, which are 2 crucial events contributing to the pathogenesis of acute gout.
Prediction and validation of gas hydrate saturation distribution in the eastern Nankai Trough, Japan: Geostatistical approach integrating well-log and 3D seismic data
Authors: Tamaki Machiko , Suzuki Kiyofumi , Fujii Tetsuya , Sato Akihiko
Published: February 2016

Accurate reservoir potential evaluation requires reliable 3D reservoir models. Geostatistical simulation techniques can reproduce the heterogeneity and quantify the uncertainty in a reservoir. We have applied sequential Gaussian simulation with collocated cokriging to generate the spatial distribution of gas hydrate (GH) saturation around a gas production test site in the eastern Nankai Trough. The simulation was performed using well-log data obtained from the exploration and production tests as a primary variable and inversion-derived seismic impedance data as a secondary variable under the good correlations between two variables. The integrated model adequately described the reservoir heterogeneity and effectively interpolated the seismic trend with respect to the well data. To confirm the usability of the seismic data for the accurate representation of the GH saturation distribution, we ran two model simulations: one using well data only and the other using well and seismic data. Each model was validated using the well-log data obtained at the production test site that were not included during the simulation. The model generated using well and seismic data appropriately reproduced the trend of well-log data at the production test site, especially for the low-GH-saturation unit within the reservoir. However, the model generated using well data only was insufficient to predict the trend of the well data. The results demonstrated that the seismic data were effective for the prediction of the GH saturation distribution, and integration of the well and seismic data could improve the accuracy of the reservoir model.
A Transient Metabolic Recovery from Early Life Glucose Intolerance in Cystic Fibrosis Ferrets Occurs During Pancreatic Remodeling
Authors: Yi Yaling , Sun Xingshen , Gibson-Corley Katherine , Xie Weiliang , Liang Bo , He Nan , Tyler Scott R. , Uc Aliye , Philipson Louis H. , Wang Kai , Hara Manami , Ode Katie Larson , Norris Andrew W. , Engelhardt John F.
Published: February 2016

Cystic fibrosis (CF)-related diabetes in humans is intimately related to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, yet little is known about how these 2 disease processes simultaneously evolve in CF. In this context, we examined CF ferrets during the evolution of exocrine pancreatic disease. At 1 month of age, CF ferrets experienced a glycemic crisis with spontaneous diabetic-level hyperglycemia. This occurred during a spike in pancreatic inflammation that was preceded by pancreatic fibrosis and loss of β-cell mass. Surprisingly, there was spontaneous normalization of glucose levels at 2–3 months, with intermediate hyperglycemia thereafter. Mixed meal tolerance was impaired at all ages, but glucose intolerance was not detected until 4 months. Insulin secretion in response to hyperglycemic clamp and to arginine was impaired. Insulin sensitivity, measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, was normal. Pancreatic inflammation rapidly diminished after 2 months of age during a period where β-cell mass rose and gene expression of islet hormones, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, and adiponectin increased. We conclude that active CF exocrine pancreatic inflammation adversely affects β-cells but is followed by islet resurgence. We predict that very young humans with CF may experience a transient glycemic crisis and postulate that pancreatic inflammatory to adipogenic remodeling may facilitate islet adaptation in CF.
Mechanistic insights into the inhibition of Sec61-dependent co- and post-translational translocation by mycolactone
Authors: McKenna Michael , Simmonds Rachel E. , High Stephen
Published: February 2016

The virulence factor mycolactone is responsible for the immunosuppression and tissue necrosis that characterise Buruli ulcer, a disease caused by infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans. In this study, we confirm that Sec61, the protein-conducting channel that coordinates entry of secretory proteins into the endoplasmic reticulum, is a primary target of mycolactone, and characterise the nature of its inhibitory effect. We conclude that mycolactone constrains the ribosome–nascent-chain–Sec61 complex, consistent with its broad-ranging perturbation of the co-translational translocation of classical secretory proteins. In contrast, the effect of mycolactone on the post-translational ribosome-independent translocation of short secretory proteins through the Sec61 complex is dependent on both signal sequence hydrophobicity and the translocation competence of the mature domain. Changes to protease sensitivity strongly suggest that mycolactone acts by inducing a conformational change in the pore-forming Sec61α subunit. These findings establish that mycolactone inhibits Sec61-mediated protein translocation and highlight differences between the co- and post-translational routes that the Sec61 complex mediates. We propose that mycolactone also provides a useful tool for further delineating the molecular mechanisms of Sec61-dependent protein translocation.
Από τη Βενετική Αδριατική στο μεταβυζαντινό κόσμο. Οι τοιχογραφίες του λατινικού ναού της Αγίας Παρασκευής στο Μπαλντρέν – Shën e Prende, Balldren – της βόρειας Αλβανίας
Authors: ΒΙΤΑΛΙΩΤΗΣ Ιωάννης
Published: February 2016

Η λατινική εκκλησία της Αγίας Παρασκευής στο Μπαλντρέν – Shën e Prende, Balldren – της βόρειας Αλβανίας διασώζει στον ανατολικό τοίχο και στην αψίδα του ιερού, δύο στρώματα τοιχογραφιών. Το πρώτο στρώμα, που μάλλον συμπεριλαμβάνει δύο φάσεις, χρονολογείται, με βάση εσωτερικές και εξωτερικές μαρτυρίες, το 15ο αιώνα και αποτελεί αμάλγαμα του διεθνούς γοτθικού με το βυζαντινό ύφος. Το δεύτερο στρώμα ανήκει στη μεταβυζαντινή παράδοση και μπορεί να τοποθετηθεί μεταξύ της 4ης και της 5ης δεκαετίας του 16ου αιώνα.
Παρατηρήσεις στην εικονογραφία του «Ἐπὶ σοὶ χαίρει» σε εικόνα από το Βυζαντινό και Χριστιανικό Μουσέιο Αθηνών (Τ.134/Κειμήλια Προσφύγων 67)
Authors: ΓΟΥΜΑΤΙΑΝΟΣ Ἄγγελος
Published: February 2016

Ἡ εἰκόνα μὲ τὸ θέμα τοῦ «Ἐπὶ σοὶ χαίρει» ἀπὸ τὸ Βυζαντινὸ Μουσεῖο τῆς Ἀθήνας περιέχει ἐνδιαφέροντα πιθανῶς τοπογραφικὰ στοιχεία ποὺ τὴ συσχετίζουν μὲ τὴ Φιλαδέλφεια τῆς Μικρᾶς Ἀσίας. Ἡ εἰκονογραφία της ἐντάσσεται στὴν ὑστεροβυζαντινὴ τέχνη τουλάχιστον μετὰ τὸ 1360 καὶ οἱ ἡσυχαστικὲς ἐπιρροὲς εἶναι ἐμφανεῖς στὴ σύνθεσή της, σὲ συνδυασμὸ μὲ τὴν πιθανὴ ἀπεικόνιση στὴν εἰκόνα τοῦ ἐξέχοντος ἡσυχαστῆ μητροπολίτη Φιλαδελφείας Θεολήπτου.
Copper Repoussé icons of Middle and Later Byzantine Times
Authors: SCHWARTZ Ellen C.
Published: February 2016

Στο παρόν άρθρο παρουσιάζεται μια ομάδα εικόνων έκτυπης διακόσμησης από λεπτά φύλλα κραμάτων χαλκού. Παρά την αποσπασματικότητα της διατήρησής τους, μπορούν να προταθούν οι διάφορες χρήσεις τους. Συχνά μιμούνταν πολύτιμες μεταλλικές διακοσμήσεις εικόνων, γνωστών από τα σύγχρονά τους κείμενα. Μέσα από αναφορές των έκτυπων αυτών εικόνων σε φιλολογικές πηγές μπορεί να ανιχνευθεί η μέτρια χρηματική τους αξία. Τέτοια αντικείμενα είναι πολύ πιθανόν να άνηκαν σε οικογένειες κάποιας ανώτερης τάξης και θα χρησίμευαν ως εικόνες ιδιωτικής λατρείας, θα διακοσμούσαν ταπεινές εκκλησίες και παρεκκλήσια, αλλά και θα αφιερώνονταν μέσω δωρεών ή κληροδοτημάτων σε μοναστήρια.
À propos d’un plat à offrandes inédit au Monastère Athonite de Docheiariou
Authors: ANDROUDIS Pascal
Published: February 2016

Στην εργασία παρουσιάζεται ένας άγνωστος σφυρήλατος δίσκος προσφορών από κράμα χαλκού από τη μονή ∆οχειαρίου Αγίου Όρους. Το κεντρικό θέμα του έργου, η παράσταση των Πρωτοπλάστων εντός μεταλλίου, αποτελεί κοινό και αγαπητό θέμα σε παρόμοια έργα των αρχών του 16ου αιώνα που αποδόθηκαν σε γερμανικά εργαστήρια μεταλλοτεχνίας, κυρίως της Νυρεμβέργης. Επιπλέον αναδεικνύεται η σπανιότητα της απόδοσης των μορφών στο συγκεκριμένο θέμα σε σχέση με την πλειονότητα των έργων που φέρουν το ίδιο θέμα, εντοπίζονται έργα παράλληλα στη ∆υτική Ευρώπη και τέλος γίνεται μια προσπάθεια ερμηνείας των καινοτομιών, όσον αφορά στο θεολογικό και κοινωνιολογικό υπόβαθρο, που εντοπίζονται σε αυτήν την παράσταση.
Η κινστέρνα της Νέας Μονής στη Χίο
Authors: ΒΑΣΣΗ Όλγα , ΦΑΪΤΑΚΗ Στέλλα
Published: February 2016

Η κινστέρνα της Νέας Μονής στη Χίο χρονολογείται στα μέσα του 11ου αιώνα και ακολουθεί τύπους και μορφές της αρχιτεκτονικής παράδοσης της Κωνσταντινούπολης. Οι αναστηλωτικές εργασίες που πραγματοποιήθηκαν πριν από λίγα χρόνια, αποκάλυψαν μια άγνωστη μέχρι σήμερα επισκευή του κτηρίου στο 15ο αιώνα, μάρτυρες της οποίας ήταν τα αγγεία που προέρχονταν από εργαστήρια της νοτιοανατολικής Ισπανίας και είχαν χρησιμοποιηθεί ως υλικό πλήρωσης στο δώμα της κινστέρνας.
«Εἰικόνες μοσχόβικαις..., εὐμορφώτατα πράγματα». Η μεταφορά ρωσικών εικόνων στoν ελληνικό χώρο από το 16ο ως τις αρχές του 20ού αι.
Authors: BOYCHEVA Yuliana
Published: February 2016

Οι ρωσικές εικόνες που διακινούνταν στον ελληνικό χώρο από το 16ο ως τον 20ό αιώνα αποτελούν αφιερώματα από το ρωσικό κράτος ή τον ίδιο τον Τσάρο, από Έλληνες εμπόρους της διασποράς, μοναχούς-ταξιδιώτες και προσκυνητές. Συχνά δε ήταν αντικείμενο του πλανόδιου εμπορίου εικόνων από Ρώσους στην επικράτεια της οθωμανικής αυτοκρατορίας. Οι ιδιαίτερες διαδρομές τους, τα νοήματα με τα οποία επενδύονται και οι ποικίλες μορφές υποδοχής που συναντούν, δικαιολογούν τη μελέτη του φαινομένου ως περίπτωσης πολιτισμικής μεταφοράς.
EEG correlates of social interaction at distance
Authors: Giroldini William , Pederzoli Luciano , Bilucaglia Marco , Caini Patrizio , Ferrini Alessandro , Melloni Simone , Prati Elena , Tressoldi Patrizio E.
Published: February 2016

This study investigated EEG correlates of social interaction at distance between twenty-five pairs of participants who were not connected by any traditional channels of communication.

Each session involved the application of 128 stimulations separated by intervals of random duration ranging from 4 to 6 seconds. One of the pair received a one-second stimulation from a light signal produced by an arrangement of red LEDs, and a simultaneous 500 Hz sinusoidal audio signal of the same length. The other member of the pair sat in an isolated sound-proof room, such that any sensory interaction between the pair was impossible.

An analysis of the Event-Related Potentials associated with sensory stimulation using traditional averaging methods showed a distinct peak at approximately 300 ms, but only in the EEG activity of subjects who were directly stimulated. However, when a new algorithm was applied to the EEG activity based on the correlation between signals from all active electrodes, a weak but robust response was also detected in the EEG activity of the passive member of the pair, particularly within 9 – 10 Hz in the Alpha range. Using the Bootstrap method and the Monte Carlo emulation, this signal was found to be statistically significant.
The representation of scientific research in the national curriculum and secondary school pupils’ perceptions of research, its function, usefulness and value to their lives
Authors: Yeoman Kay , Bowater Laura , Nardi Elena
Published: February 2016

Young people’s views on what research is, how it is conducted and whether it is important, influences the decisions they make about their further studies and career choices. In this paper we report the analysis of questionnaire data with a particular focus on pupil perceptions of research in the sciences and of the scientific method. The questionnaire was a 25-item Likert Scale (1-5) distributed to seven collaborating schools. We received 2634 returns from pupils across key stages 3, 4 and 5. We also asked teachers to complete the questionnaire in order to explore how they thought their pupils would respond. We received 54 teacher responses. Statistically significant differences in the responses were identified through a chi-square test on SPSS. As what is being taught influences secondary pupil views on research we also consider how the term ‘research’ appears in the national curriculum for England and Wales and the three main English exam boards. The main theoretical construct that informs our analysis of the questionnaire data and the national curriculum is Angela Brew’s 4-tier descriptor of perceptions of research (domino, trading, layer, journey). We use this framework in order to map what, when and how research is presented to school pupils in England and Wales. We also use this framework in order to highlight and discuss certain pupil views that emerged from the questionnaire data and which indicate areas where curriculum and pedagogy intervention may be necessary: pupils seem less confident in their understanding of research as involving the identification of a research question; and, they often see research as a means to confirm one’s own opinion. They do however understand research as involving the generation of new knowledge and the collection of new data, such as interviews and questionnaires as well as laboratory work, field trips and library searches and they appear relatively confident in their statements about their ability to do research, their school experiences of research and the importance of research in their future career choice.
Alanylated lipoteichoic acid primer in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Luo Yu
Published: February 2016

Lipoteichoic acid is a major lipid-anchored polymer in Gram-positive bacteria such asBacillus subtilis. This polymer typically consists of repeating phosphoglycerol or phosphoribitol units and therefore has a predominant negative charge. The repeating units are attached to a glycolipid anchor which has a diacylglycerol (DAG) moiety attached to a dihexopyranose head group. D-alanylation is known as the major modification of lipoteichoic acid, which partially neutralizes the polymer and plays important roles in bacterial survival and resistance to the host immune system. The biosynthesis pathways of the glycolipid anchor and lipoteichoic acid have been fully characterized. However, the exact mechanism of D-alanyl transfer from the cytosol to cell surface lipoteichoic acid remains unclear. Here I report the use of mass spectrometry in the identification of intermediate species in the biosynthesis and D-alanylation of lipoteichoic acid: the glycolipid anchor, nascent lipoteichoic acid primer with one phosphoglycerol unit, as well as mono- and di-alanylated forms of the lipoteichoic acid primer. Monitoring these species as well as the recently reported D-alanyl-phosphatidyl glycerol would aid in shedding light on the mechanism of the D-alanylation pathway of lipoteichoic acid.
The pathogenic variants in the development of endothelial dysfunction of blood vessels among adolescents with obesity
Authors: Черная  , Chernaya N. , Маскова  , Maskova G. , Дадаева  , Dadaeva O.
Published: February 2016

Patients and methods. The authors have conducted clinical, functional and laboratory examination of 104 adolescents aged 11-18 years with a primary abdominal obesity type. It was additionally studied the reaction of the brachial artery in the process of conducting endothelial test with reactive hyperemia and calculated of percentage flow-mediated dilation (%FMD). Results. In 66% (n=67) cases it was identified endothelial dysfunction vessel (EDV) among adolescents on the basis of positive endothelial samples (FMD<10%). A further analysis was performed among children with dysfunction of endothelium of the brachial artery. The children were divided into 2 groups: children with essential hypertension and EDV and children without essential hypertension and EDV. Adolescents with essential hypertension had a moderate increase in the percentage content of fat mass (M=31,4±4,7%) and metabolic disorders in the blood are recorded with a frequency: hyperglycemia – 16,6%, ВЕСТНИК НОВЫХ МЕДИЦИНСКИХ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ – 2015 – № 4 Электронный журнал Библиографическая ссылка: Маскова Г.С., Черная Н.Л., Дадаева О.Б. Патогенетические варианты развития дисфункции эндотелия сосудов у подростков с ожирением // Вестник новых медицинских технологий. Электронное издание. 2015. №4. Публикация 2-4. URL: http://www.medtsu.tula.ru/VNMT/Bulletin/E2015-4/5216.pdf (дата обращения: 18.11.2015). DOI:12737/14921 hypercholesterolemia – 4%, hyperinsulinemia – 27% and insulin resistance – 17%. Children without essential hypertension were characterized by significantly more pronounced metabolic disorders in the blood. In particular, hyperglycemia was reported among 33% of adolescents (p=0,04), hypercholesterolemia among 33% (p=0,04), hyperinsulinemia- 45% (p=0,041) and insulin resistance among 30% (p=0,042). Metabolic disorders of blood were registered at a higher percentage of body fat in the body (M=39,45±4,4%). Conclusion. The results analysis of the selected groups allows to reveal a predominant factor that causes dysfunction of endothelium among adolescents with obesity (high systemic blood pressure or hyperinsulinemia), as well as to determine the pathogenetic variants of further progress obesity: the development essential hypertension or increase metabolic disorders with the formation of diabetes type 2.
Mathematical modeling of processes in biotechnical complex «corrective action facilities – humax respiratory system»
Authors: Минаков  , Minakov E. , Федоров  , Fedorov S. , Ивахно  , Ivakhno N. , Анцибор  , Antsibor S.
Published: February 2016

The article considers the aim of modeling humax respiratory system structure for predicting the

change of physiological parameters at different methods of physical influence such as operated reduction in

breathing circuit. The developed complex of mathematical models includes: equations of mass rate and masstransfer

rate in lung channels at arborization of auriferous ways according to the rule of right dichotomy; equations

of breathing muscles dynamics, based on moving of cylinder wall in radial and axial directions; special

functions, providing automatic muscles turning on and turning off when lungs reach minimal and maximal set

volume at inhale/exhale.

The article shows the results of numerical modeling of functioning of the sophisticated biotechnical complex

«Corrective action facilities – humax respiratory system» in the form of pressure charts and volume flow

which the lungs generate in different regimes of resistance in breathing circuit. The results acquired qualitatively

and quantitatively reflect the biomechanics of the number of processes which accompany breathing.

The developed complex of interconnected mathematical models allows to fulfill specific multiparametric

modeling of the dynamics of functioning of the complex biotechnical system «Corrective action facilities – humax

respiratory system», which allows the realization of optimal controlling algorithms for execution units in

different complexes based on prediction of changes in the condition of the respiratory system.
Efficiency of correction of autonomic disorders in the conditions of meteo-climatic maladaptation by the methods of reflex and crystal therapy
Authors: Михайлова  , Mikhaylova A. , Круглянин  , Kruglyanin K. , Файзуллоев  , Fayzulloev A.
Published: February 2016

The change of climatic conditions often leads to stress and sometimes failure of adaptive resources.

Vegetative nervous system is one of the main participants of adaptation to environmental changes. Its

functions inevitably decline in cases of short-term change of meteorological and climatic conditions, especially,

in people with history of vascular dystonia. The article presents the results of correction of the autonomic function

by the methods of reflex- and crystal therapy in the conditions of maladaptation due to meteo-climatic

changes. Due to its popularization in world medical practice and absence of research within evidence-based

medicine, non-drug therapy, used in complementary medicine, in particular crystal therapy, require evaluation of

its effectiveness for correction of autonomic disorders in cases of maladaptation and comparing with the generally

accepted method of reflexology. Crystal therapy is a method of health improvement, which involves applying

precious and semiprecious minerals to various parts of the body. Assessment of vegetative nervous system in

healthy men and women with the diagnosis of vascular dystonia was carried out on the first day and 7-8 days

after the arrival to Anapa. Randomized, blind, placebo controlled study has shown significant difference of the

effect of reflex- and crystal therapy from the control group and the placebo group, in the correction of vegetative

disturbances according to the heart rate variability and a number of mental health indicators. It has proven the

effectiveness of reflexotherapy in the case of a high degree of maladaptation and crystal therapy in case of mild

to moderate severity of maladaptation, identified according to the coefficient of weather variability in traffic

along various routes.
Gender differences in schizophrenia
Authors: Бобровникова  , Bobrovnikova A , Тарасова  , Tarasova S.
Published: February 2016

The study involved 32 patients with schizophrenia (F20). The main criterion of the analysis of

gender characteristics is the trigger of the disease development. The authors analyze the possible role of psychological

factors of traumatization in the interpretation of the mechanisms of formation and development of some

symptoms of mental disorders in schizophrenics. According to the study, the trigger of the disease in women

often has been the traumatic situation connected with unsuccessful romantic and sexual experiences: rape, attempted

rape, "unrequited love" (56% of cases). Among the factors aggravating premorbid background in women,

the authors noted the disturbances of eating behavior (37%) and suicidal behaviour (31% of cases). In men,

the trigger is associated with trauma in the field of interpersonal relations (38% of cases). As aggravating factors

in men, the authors identified anti-social behaviour (18%) and the use of alcohol and drugs (50% of cases). The

analysis of socio-psychological factors of the disease revealed considerable social in women. Similar results

were obtained the following factors: the criticality of the patient to his state and the safety of the patient in selforientation.

56% women are relatively critical to its defective state, this parameter in men is 37%.
Estimation of parametres of cardiovascular systems in students of the surgut state university
Authors: Кузнецова  , Kuznetsova V. , Ворошилова  , Voroshilova O. , Соколова  , Sokolova A. , Тен  , Ten R.
Published: February 2016

It is known that the health of people living in the North is often very different from the norm.

The research was conducted in the winter. The parameters of the autonomic nervous system and the bioelectrical

activity of the heart are studied. To achieve results, the authors used cardiorhythmography examination and standard

method of pulse oximetry. The parameters of the autonomic nervous system activity and the bioelectric

activity of the heart are investigated. Synergetic analysis of parameters of quasi-attractor motion of the state vector

of the organism students showed that the organism of young men is in a relatively unstable state to extreme

climate and environmental conditions of the North. As a result, boys have a greater risk of developing early heart

disease. The parameters of quasi-attractors of vector states of the body in boys (according to the indicators of the

autonomic nervous system) are confirmed by the results of the analysis of the parameters of quasi-attractor behavior

of another vector of states, characterizing bioelectrical activity of the heart.
The sanogenesis from cell positions
Authors: Наумова  , Naumova E. , Кидалов  , Kidalov V. , Фудин  , Fudin N. , Валентинов  , Valentinov B.
Published: February 2016

The review highlights the issues of formation and development of the sanogenesis, the classification

of sanogenetic mechanisms, theirs role in rehabilitation. The interpenetration of sanogenetic and pathogenetic

mechanisms, participation of different tissues in the sanogenesis, including blood, is defined. It is showed

the structure and significance of the erythron, formation of red blood cells, building border line of red blood

cells, the significance of autofluorescence in the evaluation of sanogenetic reactions. The energetic importance

of mitochondria, the receptor apparatus, various enzymes, transport proteins, electron transport chain in the metabolism

that determines the degree of loss of sanogenetic potential and formation of preexisting diseases is defined.

It is established the role of sanogenic reactions in the prevention of stress and post-stress recovery.
Analyzes of Cold Accumulation
Authors: Синцов  , Sintsov A.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this article is to identify opportunities of energy saving during the production of cold. Analysis of the cold

accumulation in refrigeration units with variable refrigeration load was carried out in order to reduce energy consumption.

Schemes of ice-water and air conditioning installations, which use ice accumulators, are presented. Varieties of ice

accumulator cycles and calculation results are provided. Reduced cooling efficiency of the two-stage versus single-stage

cooling is confirmed. The possibility of replacing ice accumulator with seasonal cold accumulator is considered. A onedimensional

mathematical model of ice buildup in ice accumulator is offered. The calculation results are compared with

the characteristics of actual products. Energy saving by replacing ice accumulators with seasonal cold accumulators is

confirmed by the results of calculations.
A Student-Centered Approach to the Business School Management Science Course
Authors: Grossman Thomas A. , Mehrotra Vijay , Sidaoui Mouwafac
Published: February 2016

We describe a student-centered approach for the required business school management science course. We articulate three principles for teaching management science to business students: real-world context, spreadsheet-native attitude, and student self-efficacy. We examine the implications of these principles and how they affect course content and delivery. We show how to establish relevance as perceived by business students. We highlight the business analysis lifecycle as a valuable “roadmap” for students and instructors alike. We explain costs, benefits, and techniques for spreadsheet-native modeling. Spreadsheet modeling should be treated as a computer programming process, based on the properties of the spreadsheet programming language. We explain how and why to separate the modeling process from the act of typing into a spreadsheet. Spreadsheets can function as valuable organizational assets. We candidly discuss the challenges faced transitioning from a tools-based teaching approach to a student-centered approach.