bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of free amino acids, bacteria and fungi in size-segregated atmospheric aerosols in boreal forest: seasonal patterns, abundances and size distributions
Authors: Helin Aku , Sietiö Outi-Maaria , Heinonsalo Jussi , Bäck Jaana , Riekkola Marja-Liisa , Parshintsev Jevgeni
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Bioaerosols are ubiquitous in the atmosphere and constitute ~ 30 % of atmospheric aerosol particle mass in sizes > 1 μm. Bioaerosol components, such as bacteria, fungi and pollen, may affect the climate by acting as could-active particles, thus having an effect on cloud and precipitation formation processes. In this study, size-segregated aerosol samples ( 10 μm) were collected in boreal forest (Hyytiälä, Finland) during one year and analyzed for free amino acids (FAAs), DNA concentration and microorganism (bacteria, Pseudomonas and fungi). Measurements were performed using tandem mass spectrometry, spectrophotometry and qPCR, respectively. Meteorological parameters and statistical analysis were used to study their atmospheric implication for results. Distinct annual patterns of bioaerosol components were observed, late spring and autumn being seasons of dominant occurrence. Elevated abundances of FAAs and bacteria were observed during the local pollen season, whereas fungi were observed at highest level during autumn. Meteorological parameters, such as air and soil temperature, radiation and rainfall were observed to possess close relationship with bioaerosol abundances on an annual scale.
Mn / Ca intra-test variability in the benthic foraminifer Ammonia tepida
Authors: Petersen Jassin , Barras Christine , Bézos Antoine , La Carole , de Nooijer Lennart J. , Meysman Filip J. R. , Mouret Aurélia , Slomp Caroline P. , Jorissen Frans J.
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The adaptation of some benthic foraminiferal species to low oxygen conditions provides the prospect of using the chemical composition of their tests as proxies for bottom water oxygenation. Manganese may be particularly suitable as such a geochemical proxy, because this redox element is soluble in reduced form (Mn2+), and hence can be incorporated into benthic foraminiferal tests under low oxygen conditions. Therefore, intra- and inter-test differences in foraminiferal Mn / Ca ratios may hold important information about short term variability in pore water Mn2+ concentrations and sediment redox conditions. Here, we studied Mn / Ca inter- and intra-test variability of living individuals of the shallow infaunal foraminifer Ammonia tepida sampled in Lake Grevelingen (The Netherlands) in three different months of 2012. The deeper parts of this lake are characterised by seasonal hypoxia/anoxia with associated shifts in microbial activity and sediment geochemistry, leading to seasonal Mn2+ accumulation in the pore water. Earlier laboratory experiments with similar seawater Mn2+ concentrations as encountered in the pore waters of Lake Grevelingen suggest that intrinsic intra-test variability in A. tepida (11–25 % RSD) is responsible for a considerable portion of the observed variability in Mn / Ca. Our results show that the seasonally highly dynamic environmental conditions in the study area lead to a strongly increased Mn / Ca intra- and inter-test variability (average of 45 % RSD). Within single specimens, both increasing and decreasing trends in Mn / Ca ratios with size are observed. Our results suggest that the variability of successive single chamber Mn / Ca ratios reflects the temporal variability of pore water Mn2+. Additionally, active or passive migration of the foraminifera in the surface sediment may explain part of the observed Mn / Ca variability.
“Climate response functions” for the Arctic Ocean: a proposed coordinated modelling experiment
Authors: Marshall John , Scott Jeffery , Proshutinsky Andrey
Published: July 2017

Abstract. A coordinated set of Arctic modelling experiments, which explore how the Arctic responds to changes in external forcing, is proposed. Our goal is to compute and compare climate response functions (CRFs) – the transient response of key observable indicators such as sea-ice extent, freshwater content of the Beaufort Gyre, etc. – to abrupt step changes in forcing fields across a number of Arctic models. Changes in wind, freshwater sources, and inflows to the Arctic basin are considered. Convolutions of known or postulated time series of these forcing fields with their respective CRFs then yield the (linear) response of these observables. This allows the project to inform, and interface directly with, Arctic observations and observers and the climate change community. Here we outline the rationale behind such experiments and illustrate our approach in the context of a coarse-resolution model of the Arctic based on the MITgcm. We conclude by summarizing the expected benefits of such an activity and encourage other modelling groups to compute CRFs with their own models so that we might begin to document their robustness to model formulation, resolution, and parameterization.
Form and function in hillslope hydrology: in situ imaging and characterization of flow-relevant structures
Authors: Jackisch Conrad , Angermann Lisa , Allroggen Niklas , Sprenger Matthias , Blume Theresa , Tronicke Jens , Zehe Erwin
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The study deals with the identification and characterization of rapid subsurface flow structures through pedo- and geo-physical measurements and irrigation experiments at the point, plot and hillslope scale. Our investigation of flow-relevant structures and hydrological responses refers to the general interplay of form and function, respectively. To obtain a holistic picture of the subsurface, a large set of different laboratory, exploratory and experimental methods was used at the different scales. For exploration these methods included drilled soil core profiles, in situ measurements of infiltration capacity and saturated hydraulic conductivity, and laboratory analyses of soil water retention and saturated hydraulic conductivity. The irrigation experiments at the plot scale were monitored through a combination of dye tracer, salt tracer, soil moisture dynamics, and 3-D time-lapse ground penetrating radar (GPR) methods. At the hillslope scale the subsurface was explored by a 3-D GPR survey. A natural storm event and an irrigation experiment were monitored by a dense network of soil moisture observations and a cascade of 2-D time-lapse GPR trenches. We show that the shift between activated and non-activated state of the flow paths is needed to distinguish structures from overall heterogeneity. Pedo-physical analyses of point-scale samples are the basis for sub-scale structure inference. At the plot and hillslope scale 3-D and 2-D time-lapse GPR applications are successfully employed as non-invasive means to image subsurface response patterns and to identify flow-relevant paths. Tracer recovery and soil water responses from irrigation experiments deliver a consistent estimate of response velocities. The combined observation of form and function under active conditions provides the means to localize and characterize the structures (this study) and the hydrological processes (companion study Angermann et al., 2017, this issue).
Efficient pan-European river flood hazard modelling through a combination of statistical and physical models
Authors: Paprotny Dominik , Morales-Nápoles Oswaldo , Jonkman Sebastiaan N.
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Flood hazard is currently being researched on continental and global scales, using models of increasing complexity. In this paper we investigate a different, simplified approach, which combines statistical and physical models in place of conventional rainfall-run-off models to carry out flood mapping for Europe. A Bayesian-network-based model built in a previous study is employed to generate return-period flow rates in European rivers with a catchment area larger than 100 km2. The simulations are performed using a one-dimensional steady-state hydraulic model and the results are post-processed using Geographical Information System (GIS) software in order to derive flood zones. This approach is validated by comparison with Joint Research Centre's (JRC) pan-European map and five local flood studies from different countries. Overall, the two approaches show a similar performance in recreating flood zones of local maps. The simplified approach achieved a similar level of accuracy, while substantially reducing the computational time. The paper also presents the aggregated results on the flood hazard in Europe, including future projections. We find relatively small changes in flood hazard, i.e. an increase of flood zones area by 2–4 % by the end of the century compared to the historical scenario. However, when current flood protection standards are taken into account, the flood-prone area increases substantially in the future (28–38 % for a 100-year return period). This is because in many parts of Europe river discharge with the same return period is projected to increase in the future, thus making the protection standards insufficient.
New observations indicate the possible presence of permafrost in North Africa (Djebel Toubkal, High Atlas, Morocco)
Authors: Vieira Gonçalo , Mora Carla , Faleh Ali
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Relict and present-day periglacial features have been reported in the literature for the upper reaches of the High Atlas mountains, which is the highest range in North Africa (Djebel Toubkal – 4167 m a.s.l.). A lobate feature in the Irhzer Ikhibi south at 3800 m a.s.l. has been previously interpreted as an active rock glacier, but no measurements of ground or air temperatures are known to exist for the area. In order to assess the possible presence of permafrost, we analyse data from June 2015 to June 2016 from two air temperature measurement sites at 2370 and 3210 m a.s.l. and from four ground surface temperature (GST) sites at 3220, 3815, 3980 and 4160 m a.s.l. to characterize conditions along an altitudinal gradient along the Oued Ihghyghaye valley to the summit of the Djebel Toubkal. GSTs were collected at 1 h intervals, and the presence of snow cover at the monitoring sites was validated using Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 imagery. Two field visits allowed for logger installation and collection and for assessing the geomorphological features in the area. The results show that snow plays a major role on the thermal regime of the shallow ground, inducing important spatial variability. The lowest site at 3220 m had a thermal regime characterized by frequent freeze–thaw cycles during the cold season but with few days of snow. When snow settled, the ground surface remained isothermal at 0 °C , indicating the absence of permafrost. The highest sites at 3980 and 4160 m a.s.l. showed very frequent freeze–thaw cycles and a small influence of the snow cover on GST, reflecting the lack of snow accumulation due to the wind-exposed settings on a ridge and on the summit plateau. The site located at 3815 m in the Irhzer Ikhibi south valley had a cold, stable thermal regime with GST varying from −4.5 to −6 °C from December to March, under a continuous snow cover. The site's location in a concave setting favours wind-driven snow accumulation and lower incoming solar radiation due to the shading effect of a ridge, inducing the conservation of a thick snow pack. The stable and low GSTs are interpreted as a strong indicator of the probable presence of permafrost at this site, which is an interpretation supported by the presence of lobate and arcuate features in the talus deposits. We present first results and further observations using geophysics, and borehole measurements are foreseen. This is the first time that probable permafrost has been reported from temperature observations in the mountains of North Africa.
Prognostic factors for survival in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients with brain metastases receiving targeted therapy
Authors: Yildiz Ibrahim , Bilici Ahmet , Karadurmuş Nuri , Ozer Leyla , Tural Deniz , Kaplan Mehmet A. , Akman Tülay , Bayoglu Ibrahim V. , Uysal Mükremin , Yildiz Yaşar , Tanriverdi Özgür , Yazici Ozan , Sürmeli Zeki , Serdar Turhal Nazim , Bavbek Sevil , Selçukbiricik Fatih , Koca Doğan , Basaran Mert
Published: July 2017

Background:

The primary objective of our study was to examine the clinical outcomes and prognosis of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) with brain metastases (BMs) receiving targeted therapy.

Patients and methods:

Fifty-eight patients from 16 oncology centers for whom complete clinical data were available were retrospectively reviewed.

Results:

The median age was 57 years (range 30-80). Most patients underwent a nephrectomy (n = 41; 70.7%), were male (n = 42; 72.4%) and had clear-cell (CC) RCC (n = 51; 87.9%). Patients were treated with first-line suni-tinib (n = 45; 77.6%) or pazopanib (n = 13; 22.4%). The median time from the initial RCC diagnosis to the diagnosis of BMs was 9 months. The median time from the first occurrence of metastasis to the development of BMs was 7 months. The median overall survival (OS) of mRCC patients with BMs was 13 months. Time from the initial diagnosis of systemic metastasis to the development of BMs (<12 months; p = 0.001), histological subtype (non-CC; p<0.05) and number of BMs (>2; p<0.05) were significantly associated with OS in multivariate analysis. There were no cases of toxic death. One mRCC patient with BMs (1.7%) experienced treatment-related cerebral necrosis. All other toxicities included those commonly observed with VEGF-TKI therapy.

Conclusions:

The time from the initial diagnosis of systemic metastasis to the development of BMs (<12 months), a non-CC histological subtype, and a greater number of BMs (>2) were independent risk factors for a poor prognosis.
Evolution of Residential Building in Iran based on Organization of space
Authors: Irani Mazdak , Armstrong Peter , Rastegar Amir
Published: July 2017

Iranian architecture and urbanism have developed in a historical process based on the different needs of people. The evolution of traditional Iranian architecture and urbanism may be characterized by eight factors: introversion, spatial organization, function of different parts, lifestyle, construction method, communication between houses, climatic conditions, and relationship with nature. In the recent decades, however, Iranian architecture and urbanism have faced a blind imitation of foreign cultures. The majority of modern buildings do not reflect the national identity of Iranian people. This paper investigates the architectural and urban transformation in Iran based on the rearrangement of building spaces. In doing so, the paper explores the development process of major interior and exterior elements such as public entrances, private entrances, kitchens, rooms, yards and open spaces. As a conclusion, while traditional Iranian architecture attempts to preserve the national identity and meet the different needs of Iranian people, the modern architecture is a blind imitation of western cultures.
Enhancing English Learners’ Willingness to Communicate through Debate and Philosophy Inquiry Discussion
Authors: Shamsudin Mardziah , Othman Moomala , Jahedi Maryam , Aralas Dalia
Published: July 2017

The present study investigated the impact of two instructional methods, Debate and Philosophy Inquiry (PI), in enhancing Willingness to Communicate (WTC) among two groups of English as a Second Language (ESL) learners who were randomly selected. In each group there were sixteen participants. The researchers used independent samples t-test and paired samples t-test to analyze the collected data. The data analysis using paired samples t-test showed that both methods of instruction have a significant effect on learners’ WTC. However, the learners’ WTC increased more in Debate group comparing to the Philosophy Inquiry classroom discussion group. The results indicate that Debate is more effective than Philosophy Inquiry classroom discussion in enhancing ESL learners’ WTC.
Relationship of Foreign Trade and Economic Growth in Eurasian Economy: Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Kilic Nazife Özge , Beser Murat
Published: July 2017

In this study, relationship between foreign trade and economic growth had been examined for the countries of Eurasia Economic Union by using data in era of 1992-2015 with the help of panel data analysis. First of all, cross-sectional dependency and homogeneity test had been done in the study and it had been concluded that there is cross-sectional dependency in between the series. For this purpose, unit root and causality test considering the cross-sectional dependency had been applied. Relationship between the variables had been analyzed with the panel causality test developed by Konya (2006). It had been determined that there is bi-directional causality from growth to export and unidirectional causality from growth to import.
The Joint Arabic Investments Role at Aqaba Special Economic Zone: Marsa Zayed as a Model
Authors: Al-Darwesh Hanem Rajab Ibrahem
Published: July 2017

The study addressed the role of Arabic investments in Aqaba special economic zone (ASEZ), and tried to answer the following questions: are the necessary potentials and features available in (ASEZ) to provide an attractive investment climate for the Arabic investments, what is the level of policies effectiveness for improving the investment climate in (ASEZ) to attract the Arabic investments, what is the level of guarantees effectiveness provided by (ASEZ) to encourage Arabic investments, and what is the level of investment privileges and facilities, related to the investments provided by (ASEZ) to attract the Arab investment to it. Data were collected through one study tool that consisted of 30 paragraphs by using Likert fifth scale. Study importance comes from its benefit to decision makers at (ASEZ) to avoid some of the pitfalls and barriers that face the investment in it, where the descriptive analytical approach was used to calculate the arithmetic means, standard deviations, percentages, and T-test on paragraphs of the questionnaire that was distributed by the simple random survey method. Study results showed the existence of distinctive characteristics within the investment climate at (ASEZ), and also concluded that (ASEZA) plays a big role in attracting Arabic investments to Aqaba, the study in return arrived to the existence of some barriers that limit the Arabic investments attraction to Aqaba, the most important of those are: management problems, multiple decision making parties, bureaucratic, and routine. The study recommended to reformulate operation of the united investment window, in a way that makes it a role model, to repair the internal house of government institutions and agencies dealing with investment, entrepreneurship or projects, and train staffs to facilitate the procedures offers for foreign investors, which encourage them to establish their projects there and improve the image of Jordan as an attractive country for investment and investors.
A Study of Food Consumption Patterns in Patients with Gastric Cancer in Mazandaran
Authors: Hajiahmadi Mahmoud , Shokri-Shirvani Javad , Moslemi Dariush , Hasanzadeh Soleiman , Sajadi Kaboodi Parvin , Ebrahimpour Soheil
Published: July 2017

Gastric cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. There are geographical and racial differences in the prevalence of gastric cancer in different societies. The present study aims to investigate the food consumption patterns in patients with gastric cancer in Mazandaran.This case-control study was conducted among 100 patients with gastric cancer and 200 healthy controls. Two questionnaires including demographic information, and food frequency were completed by all participants.The mean frequency of consuming raw onions, fried onions, cucumbers and salted vegetables, red meat (beef and lamb), eggs, burgers, pizza, soy, pasteurized milk, yogurt, ice cream, liquid oil, cream, tea, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, chocolate and dates in the case group was more than control group. Findings of the current research showed that some foods such asvegetables, fish, rice and dairy are extensively found in the dietary patterns in northern of Iran.These are considered as preventive factorsin the incidence of gastric cancer.
Small Colony Variants and Triclosan Resistance in Five International Clones of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Z. Al-Doori , Morrison Donald , Philpott-Howard J.
Published: July 2017

Triclosan (2.4.4’ trichloro-2’-hydroxydiphenyl ether) is a broad-spectrum biocide which is also used to decolonise patients with methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Microbial resistance to biocides has recently been reported, so it is important that new products should be tested for resistance that may arise from continued exposure to such agents. In a previous study 232 strains of MRSA isolated during 1997-2000 in 30 Scottish hospitals were tested for triclosan susceptibility; overall the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of triclosan for these strains ranged from <=0.015 to 4 mg/L. In the present study, resistance to triclosan was examined in five major international MRSA clones [Clonal Complex (CC22, CC30, CC45, CC8 and CC5)] by growing them in brain heart infusion broth in the presence of increasing concentrations of triclosan (0.03mg/L, 0.06 mg/L, 0.125 mg/L, 0.25 mg/L, and 0.5 mg/L ) for up to 67 days. Different MRSA clones showed different degrees of triclosan tolerance. CC22 (EMRSA–15), CC30 (EMRSA-16) and CC5 triclosan-tolerant derivatives showed a significant increase in triclosan MIC when compared to their parents, principally through the appearance of pinpoint-size small colony variants (SCV), as well as colonies of normal or small size. These MRSA SCVs emerged in different clones and at different times of exposure to triclosan. The triclosan MICs of mutants of all colony sizes rose to 4 mg/L in all clones except MRSA111-29 (CC45) which had an MIC 4-8 mg/L. Triclosan-resistant MRSA strains were also able to grow in the presence of higher triclosan concentrations: 1.25 mg/L (CC22), 10 mg/L (CC30), 25 mg/L (CC45), 5 mg/L (CC8) and 25 mg/L (CC5). In addition, six triclosan resistant derivatives from each MRSA clone, together with their parental clone, were examined by antibiogram, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ribotyping and detailed susceptibility to triclosan in terms of MIC and kill kinetics. Susceptibility to the aminoglycosides kanamycin, neomycin and tobramycin was decreased in four clones, and tetracycline susceptibility increased in one clone. PCR ribotyping confirmed clonally similar to the mutants. Kill kinetics of both parents and their triclosan resistant mutants showed 5-Logs reduction at 0.5 min and 5 min respectively in all five clones. In conclusion, repeated exposure of MRSA to triclosan may result in resistance to this biocide, and to clinically-relevant antimicrobials.
LBM Analysis of Micro-Convection in MHD Nanofluid Flow
Authors: Sunil Arjun Kozhikkatil , Kumar Rakesh
Published: July 2017

The lattice Boltzmann-Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook method was used to simulate Al2O3-water nanofluid to find the effects of Reynolds, Rayleigh and Hartmann numbers, slip coefficient, nanoparticle volume fraction and axial distance on forced convection heat transfer in MATLAB. The ranges of studied Reynolds number, Rayleigh number, magnetic field strength, nanoparticle volume concentration and slip coefficient include 200 ≤ Re ≤ 4000; 103 ≤ Ra ≤ 106; 0 ≤ Ha 90; 0 ≤ φ ≤ 2%; 0.005 ≤ B ≤ 0.02, respectively. The results show that increasing Reynolds number and nanoparticle volume fractions improve heat transfer in the 2D microtube under laminar, turbulent, slip and temperature jump boundary conditions. Decreasing the values of slip coefficient decreases the temperature jump and enhances the Nusselt number. A critical value for the Rayleigh number (105) and magnetic field strength (Ha 10) exists, at which the impacts of the solid volume fraction and slip coefficient effects are the most pronounced. The pressure drop shows a similar type of enhancement in magnitude, as observed in the case of the Nusselt number. However, application of nanofluids for low Reynolds numbers is more beneficial, and the effect of volume fractions are more pronounced in comparison to slip coefficient, though the effects are marginal.
Thermal Optimization and Comparison of Geometric Parameters of Rectangular and Triangular Fins with Constant Surfacing
Authors: Bunjaku Florent , Filkoski Risto V. , Sahiti Naser
Published: July 2017

This paper presents an optimization model of fins of rectangular and triangular profiles, based on a constant value of the transverse cutting surface, as well as the optimization of the ratio of efficiency of both fin profiles. The optimization model is based on the analytical and numerical simulation of the heat flux through fins in order to derive relevant thermo-physical parameters of the investigated fin profiles. The optimization of both fin profiles is carried out for different fin materials based on constant heat transfer coefficient and for different fin materials based on variable heat flux. The efficiency of fins as relevant fin goodness parameter is also analysed and the optimal values of the ratio of fin efficiency of both profiles is graphically presented and the optimal value estimated. Numerical simulation of fin models is carried out by using ANSYS/Fluent software.
País de sombra y fuego: una reflexión sobre la patria en la poesía mexicana del siglo XXI
Authors: Ortiz Maciel Mariana
Published: July 2017

En el año 2010, como contraparte de los festejos del centenario de la Revolución mexicana, el poeta Jorge Esquinca invitó a treinta y cuatro poetas a participar en una antología titulada País de sombra y fuego. La relevancia de este ejercicio poético proviene de la pregunta que lo estructura: ¿Existe todavía en el vocablo Patria un núcleo generador de significado?A través del análisis de estos poemas y de los tópicos que prevalecen en ellos, es posible conocer el doloroso México que perciben los poetas mexicanos y la forma en que la poesía mexicana contemporánea del siglo XXI lo nombra.
En busca de la morada irreal: la forma del haikú presente en la poética de Jorge Teillier en los años 60 y 70
Authors: Gómez Morán Jesús
Published: July 2017

El propósito de este artículo es describir la poética de Teillier durante los años 60 y 70 en poemas breves, muchos de los cuales se revelan como haikús. Este aspecto de la obra de Teillier es poco atendido por la crítica y no solamente se verifica a través en textos que en gran medida se asimilan al haikú japonés clásico. Así este autor encuentra una consonancia más profunda y con el término “morada irreal” de Basho, que expresa la fragmentariedad de lo real, al menos de esa parte del mundo circundante que revela insospechadas conexiones con otro tiempo y lugar.
Topografías del devenir: la poesía de Luis Hernández
Authors: Mendoza-Canales Ricardo
Published: July 2017

El siguiente artículo se propone estudiar la poesía de Luis Hernández a partir de los problemas que surgen al intentar estudiar su obra reunida. Antes que ser valorada como una poesía “inacabada”, la deliberada asistematicidad de su poética debe ser entendida como el resultado de un calculado y consciente ejercicio artístico, cuyas fuentes filosóficas tradicionalmente han pugnado por una ontología del movimiento frente a una metafísica de la permanencia. Bajo esta perspectiva, la obra de Hernández se revela como un “plano de inmanencia”, desde el cual acontece el sentido de su poesía en el quehacer de la escritura.
Energy expenditure and nutrition status of ballet, jazz and contemporary dance students
Authors: Rossiou D. , Papadopoulou S. , Pagkalos I. , Kokkinopoulou A. , Petridis D. , Hassapidou M.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To evaluate of the energy expenditure in 3 types of dance classes (ballet, Jazz, and contemporary), as well as of the daily energy balance depending on dance type. Materials and methods: 40 females attending dance classes with a median age of 21.0 (19.0-25.0) and 10 males with a median age of 27.0 (20.0-28.0) participated in this study. The energy cost of each dance class was measured using the BodyMedia SenseWear Sensor and total daily energy expenditure was evaluated using a 3-day recording of physical activity. The dietary intake was evaluated with a 3-day food diary recording. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Results: Median energy expenditure varied from 306 (277-328) Kcals/class for contemporary dance to 327 (290-355) Kcals/class for ballet and 369 (333-394) Kcals/class for jazz for females with significant differences between contemporary and jazz classes. For males, energy expenditure was 508 (447-589) Kcals/class and 564 (538-593) Kcals/class for ballet and jazz classes, respectively. Females had lower values for all anthropometric measurements, energy intake, macronutrient intakes, and energy expenditure, compared with males. The anthropometric characteristics did not differ between dance types. Both female and male dance students were in a negative energy balance. Conclusions: The use of sensors such as BodyMedia SenseWear together with keeping daily diaries make measurement of physical activity in dancing reliable and accurate. Exercise expenditure differs across types of dance in females but not in males. Both sexes had inadequate energy and carbohydrate intakes.
Long bone fractures in children and adolescents treated surgically in West Pomeranian Voivodeship in 2005-2014
Authors: Kamiński A. , Dzik M. , Kołban M. , Szwed A. , Bilnicki T.
Published: July 2017

bone fractures in children is a problem that has been recently addressed with growing attention. The unique specifics of fractures in the developmental age compared with fractures in adult patients requires an appropriate approach. Disregarding the issue may lead to long-lasting complications, including severe skeletal deformities. Methods: The analysis included 821 children (575 boys, 246 girls) admitted to the hospital with long bone fractures. Data were obtained from medical records from between 2005 and 2014. Results: Long bone fractures were the cause of hospitalizations in 64.9% of cases during the spring-summer period. The average age was 12 years old. Fractures occurred more often in boys. The main cause of fractures in the test group was indirect trauma during sports activities (32%). Fractures of the distal meta and epiphysis of the radius bone were the most common result of trauma in children and adolescents (12.4 % of all fractures). A total of 32.1% of fractures of the upper limbs concerned the radius bone and 12% concerned the supracondylar humeral bone fractures. In lower limb fractures, the most common site was the distal part of the tibia bone (8.9% of all fractures). In surgical treatment, 399 (43.3%) K-wires were used. Plate stabilization was performed 225 times (24.5%), screw fixations 119 times (12.9%), FIN/ESIN fixations 141 times (15.3%), tension bands 11 times (1.2%), intramedullary nailing 19 times (2.1%), and external stabilizations 4 times (0.5%). Fracture healing complications were observed in 3 cases in patients with polytrauma. Conclusions: Risk of a long bone fracture grows with a child’s age. Fractures are more frequent in boys. We observed triple the number of fractures that needed surgery yearly from 2005 to 2014. The increase was linear. The choice of surgical treatment method depends on the fracture type, dislocation size, and the patient’s age.
Analysis of biofilm production in Enterococcus faecium strains depending on clinical source
Authors: Sieńko A. , Wieczorek P. , Majewski P. , Sacha P. , Wieczorek A. , Ojdana D. , Tryniszewska E.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: Enterococcus faecium strains have been reported worldwide as etiologic factors of many nosocomial infections, which are difficult to manage because of the constantly increasing resistance of these microorganisms to antibiotics and the ability to form biofilm. The aim of this study was to analyze the ability to produce a biofilm in E. faecium strains, depending on the patient’s clinical material. Materials and methods: Sixty-six E. faecium strains were investigated. Identification and susceptibility testing were conducted by the VITEK2 system. The ability to form biofilm was assessed by phenotypic methods. The presence of selected virulence genes was established by PCR followed by gel electrophoresis and sequencing. Results: Among the tested E. faecium isolates, 72.7% were biofilm-positive (BIO+) and 27.3% biofilm-negative (BIO-). Strains were collected mostly from rectal swabs (30.4%) and blood (18.3%). BIO+ strains from infections constituted 31.8% (52.4% isolated from blood) and from colonization 40.9% (48.2% from rectal swabs). 91.7% of the Blood Group strains and 68.5% of the Other Group strains produced biofilm. Strains from the Colonization Group produced biofilm in a proportion similar to the Infection Group (about 75%). There were no statistically significant differences in virulence and resistance, except for vancomycin (more resistant BIO+ Other than the BIO+ Blood Group, and more resistant BIO+ Colonization than BIO+ Infection Group) and teicoplanin (more resistant BIO+ Colonization than the BIO+ Infection Group). Conclusion: The majority of E. faecium isolates carries high levels of resistance to many antimicrobials, is well equipped with virulence genes, and possesses the ability to form biofilm.
Clinical and videocapillaroscopic features and serum concentration of nitric oxide in patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon after Multiwave Locked System laser therapy
Authors: Kuryliszyn-Moskal A. , Kita J. , Hryniewicz A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: The aim of the study was the assessment of the influence of MLS laser therapy on morphological changes in nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC), clinical features, and the serum NO level in patients with primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP).
Materials and methods: The analysis was performed on a group of 78 patients with RP and 30 healthy volunteers, who underwent NVC examination. NO concentration was assayed using the Griess method in blood serum before and after 3-weeks of laser biostimulation. MLS wasperformed with a Laser-M6 ASA Company device,for 3 weeks with weekend breaks, using thefollowing parameters: a frequency of 1500 Hz, adose of 25 J/cm2, and a time of 2.5 minutes on onehand.
Results: After 3 weeks of MLS laser therapy, thebeneficial clinical effects manifested by a decrease of duration and number of RP attacks and degree of pain score on the visual analogue scale (VAS) in patients with primary and secondary RP. Clinical
improvement after MLS laser therapy was reflected in the assessment of microcirculation disorders in NVC examination. Moreover, the tendency of normalization of NO concentration in the serum of patients with primary and secondary RP may suggest a favorable effect of laser biostimulation on the regulation of processes taking part in microcirculation disorders.
Conclusions: The results showed that NVC is a useful diagnostic tool in the evaluation of dynamic microvascular involvement in RP patients. MLS laser therapy has a beneficial effect in patients with primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon
Effects of religious beliefs on the assessment of nurses’ work in the perception of patients, nursing students and nurses
Authors: Lankau A. , Krajewska-Kułak E. , Bejda G. , Guzowski A. , Baranowska A. , Cybulski M.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Religious orientation is associated with psychological well-being resulting from treating negative life events as opportunities for personal and spiritual development. Purpose: To assess the impact of religious beliefs on the evaluation of nurses' work in the perception of patients, nursing students, and nurses. Materials and methods: the study included 150 patients, 150 nurses, and 150 nursing students, using our questionnaire. Results: 56.7% of patients, 46.7% of students, and 47.7% of nurses assessed the religious sphere of life as very important. Respondents identified good family life as the most important value in life (82.7% of patients, 76% of students, and 92% of nurses). Emotional needs were the greatest motivation for students (70.7%) and nurses (72.7%) to increase religious activities; for patients, it was an illness in the family (42.7%). Patients (62.4%), students (48.7%), and nurses (61.1%) were of the opinion that religion could affect performing work-related tasks. Blood transfusion was the most likely procedure to be affected by patients’ religious beliefs (50% of patients, 44.7% of students, 58% of nurses) or nurses’ religious beliefs (29.3% of patients and 18.7% of nurses). Conclusions: Patients more often reported that religion may have some effects on choice of profession, and most respondents did not consider religious beliefs an obstacle in making new acquaintances or performing work-related tasks. In the case of a conflict between a nurse’s therapeutic activities and a patient’s or nurse’s religious beliefs, the nurse should assign the patient to another nurse.
Examination of nursing students’ attitudes towards environmental problems
Authors: Beser A. , Bahar Z. , Arkan G. , Cal A. , Yesiltepe A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: The study was directed towards examination of nursing students’ attitudes towards environmental problems. Materials and methods: This descriptive study was performed from June to August 2014 with 296 first-fourth year nursing students from one nursing faculty located in Izmir. The data of the study were collected through conducting face-to-face interviews by using Socio-Demographic Characteristics Form and Environmental Problems Attitude Scale. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, Cronbach alpha, t-test and Mann Whitney U test were used in the data analysis. Results: Mean age of the students was 21.16±2.28 years. The fourth year students had higher scores for their attitudes to environmental problems. Female students, students taking a course about the environment before university, students becoming a member of environmental organizations had significantly higher scores for their attitudes to environmental issues. Conclusions: This study suggests that attitudes of students towards environmental problems can improve only after they are offered an effective education. Therefore, Syllabi should be designed to include environmental problems to increase knowledge and awareness of students and to acquire a positive attitude.
Matrix metalloproteinases in urinary system tumours. Part I - Matrix metalloproteinases in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Młynarczyk G. , Kudelski J. , Darewicz B. , Galewska Z. , Romanowicz L.
Published: July 2017

Extracellular matrix metalloproteinases - MMPs, also referred to as matrixines, provide a group of proteolytic enzymes. They belong to the family of endopeptidases that break down elements of extracellular matrix, resulting in its continuous remodelling. Their activity is regulated at multiple levels, while tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases play a major role in this process. Metalloproteinases play a significant part in neoplastic processes due to their contribution to local tumour invasion and formation of distant metastases, as well as to angiogenesis Urinary tract tumours pose a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge and their incidence tends to grow every year. The aim of this part of review is to describe extracellular matrix and matrix metalloproteinases and to highlight the contribution of matrix metalloproteinases in the development of renal clear cell carcinoma.
Stem cells are the hope of modern stomatology
Authors: Gabiec K. , Wyrzykowska K. , Dąbrowska Z. , Antoniak M. , Dąbrowska E.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Stem cells are often hailed as the medicine of the 21st century. They provide us with potential tools to effectively counteract not only diseases, but even aging. For stomatology, stem cells are the technology of the future in the regeneration of the periodontium and pulp, and dental replantation and transplantation. Materials and methods: On the basis of a literature review, the previous achievements and potential capabilities of stem cell therapy were discussed, focusing on dental applications. Conclusions: The paper discusses the modulation of stem cells and their therapeutic potential and capabilities. The presence and properties of stem cells in the pulp of human deciduous and permanent teeth, the periodontal membrane and the dental sac are also discussed. The results of the studies conducted by the cited researchers are promising and give hope for the development of regenerative and restorative processes of the dental and periodontal tissues. Summary: In the future, stem cells obtained from primary and permanent teeth deposited in special dental banks will be able to prevent the degradation of periodontal tissue, or even heal the teeth.
AIDS and nutrition in patients
Authors: Kourkouta L. , Monios A. , Iliadis Ch. , Ouzounakis P.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: AIDS is a viral infection that particularly affects the nutritional status of patients by complicating the absorption of nutrients and their metabolism. Purpose: The purpose of this retrospective study is to highlight the contribution of nutrition to the wellness of people with HIV in all stages of the disease. Review Methods: The methodology used to select the information used in this study includes review studies and research in leading databases such as PUBMED, MEDLINE, and IATROTEK. The selection criterion of the articles was the Greek and English language.Results: The real goal of the nutritional assessment of patients with AIDS is to improve their ability to consume a sufficient quantity and variety of foods in order to meet their nutritional needs. The evaluation of dietary intake assesses the adequacy of food and nutrients consumed. It includes assessing the dietary patterns, frequency of meals, and the factors that affect food choice. Conclusions: Maintaining a good nutritional status has a significant impact on the functioning of the immune system and the overall health of people living with HIV / AIDS.
Wombs for rent, outsoursed pregnancies, baby farms - ethics and surrogate motherhood
Authors: Bagan-Kurluta K.
Published: July 2017

The history of surrogacy is composed of cases of happy solving family problems, but also of conflicts and lawsuits concerning a child and his welfare. In modern times it became the next to adoptions additional possibility of ensuring infertile individuals fulfillment of their dreams of posterity. It can also be used for comfort of a woman - to avoid the burdens of pregnancy and delivery, or for a comfort of a man – to be a single father without a mother of a child, wife and family ties with her. Since its beginning in late 70-ties of XX century, legality and ethical aspects of surrogacy are lively discussed, as well in the court rooms, as in the doctrine. The following article is an attempt to deal with just some of the mentioned ethical problems.
The perception of violence in children’s drawings
Authors: Krajewska-Kułak E. , Kułak W. , Stelcer B. , Jasiński M. , Kowalczuk K. , Łukaszuk C. , Guzowski A. , Cybulski M. , Lewko J. , K. Van Damme-Ostapowicz
Published: July 2017

The aim of the paper is to evaluate the perception of
violence held by children and adolescents aged 8 to
16 years based on their artworks. 163 children’s
drawings submitted from across Poland on "Children
against violence." were analyzed. These pictures
were analysed according to their contents. The
artworks were made using various techniques: torn
paper collage, collage, wax scratch, coloring pages,
painting using poster paints and watercolors.
Drawings have been classified in twelve thematic
groups: "aggression against things", "peer violence","violence and addiction", "family violence",
"workplace violence", "on-line violence," verbal
violence", the continuity of violence", difficult
choices" ,and " help ". Children and adolescents are
good observers and they see various forms of
violence, especially signs of bullying, and the impact
of addictions on their development. Children know
how to avoid and reduce violence.
Validation of Spectrophotometric Methods for the Determination of Total Polyphenol and Total Flavonoid Content
Authors: Matić Petra , Sabljić Marija , Jakobek Lidija
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study was to validate spectrophotometric methods for the measurement of total polyphenol (TP; via the Folin–Ciocalteu method) and total flavonoid (TF) content [via the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) method]. Validation parameters of these methods were determined, including linearity, sensitivity, precision (intra-assay and intermediate), accuracy, LOD, and LOQ. For the validation process, groups of polyphenol standards were used, including phenolic acids (gallic, p-coumaric, caffeic, and chlorogenic acids), flavan-3-ols [(+)-catechin and procyanidins B1 and B2], flavonols (quercetin and quercetin-3-rutinoside), and dihydrochalcones (phloretin and phloretin-2-glucoside). Obtained validation parameters were within acceptable ranges with high determination coefficients, reasonably low LODs and LOQs, and high slopes in the calibration curves for both methods, except for phloretin and phloretin-2-glucoside, for which there were low slopes in the calibration curves for the AlCl3 method. To evaluate differences in polyphenol content, the validated spectrophotometric methods were used to determine TP and TF content in wines (Plavac, Graševina, and Vranac) and juices (blueberry, strawberry, and blackcurrant juice) according to the polyphenol calibration curves. Polyphenol contents were different for both methods in all wines and juices.
The genus Diplommatina Benson, 1849 (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Diplommatinidae) in Nepal, with the description of seven new species
Authors: Budha Prem B. , Naggs Fred , Backeljau Thierry
Published: July 2017

This paper deals with the taxonomy and faunistics of the genus Diplommatina in Nepal. Altogether 16 species are reported, seven of which are new to science viz. D. abiesiana sp. nov., D. fistulata sp. nov., D. godawariensis sp. nov., D. maipokhariensis sp. nov., D. salgharica sp. nov., D. shivapuriensis sp. nov. and D. syabrubesiensis sp. nov. Information on nine previously reported species is provided: D. exserta Godwin-Austen, 1886, D. folliculus (L. Pfeiffer, 1846), D. miriensis Godwin-Austen, 1917, D. munipurensis Godwin-Austen, 1892, D. oviformis Fulton, 1901, D. pachycheilus Benson, 1857, D. regularis Fulton, 1901, D. silvicola Godwin-Austen, 1886 and D. sperata W.T. Blanford, 1862. Although D. canarica was once reported from Nepal, it is not treated here as it is an endemic of the Western Ghats. A dichotomous identification key for all Nepalese species is presented.
Teoria tornar-se humano: prática em grupo de pré-aposentadoria
Authors: Gvozd Raquel , Garcia Simone Domingues , Haddad Maria do Carmo Lourenço , Vannuchi Marli Terezinha Oliveira , Garanhani Mara Lúcia
Published: July 2017

Objetivo: identificar os princípios da teoria Tornar-se Humano em um grupo de reflexão sobre a aposentadoria. Método: pesquisa descritiva de abordagem qualitativa desenvolvida com cinco pré-aposentados de uma instituição universitária pública localizada no norte do Paraná. Realizaram-se cinco encontros entre julho e novembro de 2012. Os discursos foram analisados com a utilização dos princípios da teoria Tornar-se Humano, de Rosemarie Parse, que são: significado, ritmos sincronizados e co-transcendência. Resultados: constatou-se que é possível a utilização da teoria em grupos como o estudado, já que os princípios abordados vão ao encontro da ideia de que a saúde e bem-estar são influenciados pelas situações vivenciadas ao longo da vida. Considerações finais: o estudo revela que os pré-aposentados percorrem princípios propostos pela teoria e quando concretizam a imagem da aposentadoria, buscam conhecimento e transformação para o enfrentamento desta etapa da vida, o que resulta na produção de um pensamento estruturado sobre o tema.