bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model to predict the superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) accumulation in vivo
Authors: Henrique Silva Adny , Lima Jr Enio , Vasquez Mansilla Marcelo , Zysler Roberto Daniel , Mojica Pisciotti Mary Luz , Locatelli Claudriana , Kumar Reddy Rajoli Rajith , Owen Andrew , Creczynski-Pasa Tânia Beatriz , Siccardi Marco
Published: March 2017

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have been identified as a promising material for biomedical applications. These include as contrast agents for medical imaging, drug delivery and/or cancer cell treatment. The nanotoxicological profile of SPIONs has been investigated in different studies and the distribution of SPIONs in the human body has not been fully characterized. The aim of this study was to develop a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict the pharmacokinetics of SPIONs. The distribution and accumulation of SPIONs in organs were simulated taking into consideration their penetration through capillary walls and their active uptake by specialized macrophages in the liver, spleen and lungs. To estimate the kinetics of SPION uptake, a novel experimental approach using primary macrophages was developed. The murine PBPK model was validated against in vivo pharmacokinetic data, and accurately described accumulation in liver, spleen and lungs. After validation of the murine model, a similar PBPK approach was developed to simulate the distribution of SPIONs in humans. These data demonstrate the utility of PBPK modeling for estimating biodistribution of inorganic nanoparticles and represents an initial platform to provide computational prediction of nanoparticle pharmacokinetics.
Tourism e-services and Jewish heritage: a case study of Prague
Authors: Mitsche Nicole , Strielkowski Wadim
Published: March 2017

Our paper describes the new potential for tourism e-services (smartphone apps and enhanced Internet platforms) for promoting the intangible cultural heritage in European destinations using the example of Prague’s Jewish heritage. Although quite a few tourism e-services are present in the tourism market in Prague, their full potential has not been exhausted.

The paper shows that one of the ways how the intangible cultural heritage in European destinations can be promoted is through employing the apps for smartphones and tablets involving local myths and legends constituting the backbone of local cultural and religious traditions.

Our research is based on the empirical results of the three stages of our own questionnaire survey conducted in Prague in May–August 2013 for assessing the revealed preferences of Prague’s residents and tourists for such apps and novel IT solutions.

Our results demonstrate that a potential app should feature a narrative, a possibility to upload additional information, as well as interactive online maps. The app should be offered at both App Store and Android Market Play free of charge with embedded in-app purchases that might reach up to 3 EUR in additional payments.

The paper tackles a top-notch field of electronic tourism (or e-tourism) that embeds the mobile technologies and the intangible cultural heritage approach. The results and outcomes might be useful not only for IT developers specialising in digital tourism but also for local stakeholders and residents.
The structural relationships of destination image, awareness, uniqueness and destination loyalty in periurban ecotourism destination
Authors: Jun Kim Sang
Published: March 2017

This study is designed to explore the conceptualization of ecotourism in order to expand the concept into ecotourism activities in our daily lives. To this end, the author proposes the ‘periurban ecotourism’ concept and conducts an empirical study with a focus on Nabari City, a small Japanese city with a well-preserved natural environment that has been attracting a number of visitors. In this study, destination image, awareness and uniqueness are presented as key independent variables to set directions for the development as a periurban ecotourism destination and to thereby develop a “theoretical periurban ecotourism model”, and four hypotheses for this study are examined. Findings from the examination reveal that destination image and awareness have a positive impact on overall satisfaction while destination uniqueness generates statistically significant result. In a group of first visitors, however, destination uniqueness appears to have a significant impact of some degree, with less influence than expected. In order to help redefine ecotourism and suggest a variety of research questions for ecotourism markets, it is necessary to conduct an empirical study covering “periurban ecotourism” and its conceptualization, motivation of ecotourists, and lifestyles from a more concrete perspective.
Tourist motivations in a heritage destination in Spain
Authors: Fernández Guzmán Antonio Muñoz , Pérez-Gálvez Jesús Claudio , López-Guzmán Tomás
Published: March 2017

The inscription of an area as World Heritage Site (WHS) is of utmost significance to preserve the historical and artistic heritage and at the same time, to encourage visits to the site. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the study of the relationship between WHS and tourism by presenting the results of a research conducted in the city of Córdoba (Spain) which analyses the socio-demographic profile and motivations of tourists who visit this City, differentiating between domestic and foreign tourists. The main results of the research show the important educational level of respondent tourists, the significant number of countries of origin, the high motivation to learn about the heritage roots of the city, the importance of gastronomy as a part of its cultural identity and the high satisfaction of tourists. As a point of improvement, the results show the low level of overnight stays in the city.
Hydrological effects of the hydraulic structures constructed in the valley of the River Little Vistula in Poland from the mid-18th century to the present
Authors: Czaja Jakub
Published: March 2017

This study of the hydraulic structures constructed in the River Little Vistula (Mała Wisła) valley covers its western reach from the village of Strumień (Schwartzwasser) to the mouth of the River Przemsza. Its purpose was to assess the impact of these structures on changes in the conditions of runoff formation within the valley from the mid-18th century to the present. Historical materials (maps, sketches and plans) collected in the State Archives in Opole and Katowice were used in the study. Analyses of Austrian plane-table maps from the years 1763–1764 and 1861–1862 (1:28 800 scale) and of Prussian maps from the years 1827–1828 and 1881–1883 (1:25 000 scale) were also conducted. As a result of the study, the type and rate of hydraulic works were determined along with the techniques and methods used when constructing these structures in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was found that during the last 260 years, the main channel of the River Little Vistula moved within the meandering zone. Within the area of the Zarzecze and Mała Wisła settlements, a “new” River Vistula channel was formed during the flood in 1736, which shifted ca. 0.5–1.0 km to the south. The hydraulic structures which were constructed, mainly levees, caused water levels to rise excessively in the area during high water stages and the swollen waters often causing the levees to cave in, or to breach them. The river engineering work which was conducted also affected the formation of runoff in the valley of the River Little Vistula. It has been found that both anastomosis processes and river meandering were inhibited. In some channel reaches, temporal activation of deep erosion processes as well as channel shallowing were observed. Deep erosion reached up to 2 metres and channel shallowing up to 1 metre. These processes took place during river engineering work and the River Vistula bed took around a dozen years to stabilise following the completion of the work.
Cornus mas: a review on traditional uses and pharmacological properties
Authors: Hosseinpour-Jaghdani Fatemeh , Shomali Tahoora , Gholipour-Shahraki Sajedeh , Rahimi-Madiseh Mohammad , Rafieian-Kopaei Mahmoud
Published: March 2017

Medicinal plants that are used today have been known by people of ancient cultures around the world and have largely been considered due to their medicinal properties. Cornus mas L. (Cornelian cherry) is one of these medicinal plants with high level of antioxidant activity. Cornelian cherry is an attractive ornamental plant with delicious fruit having nutritional and therapeutic values. The main purpose of this paper is to present and summarize the pharmacological and therapeutic effects from researches done on Cornelian cherry in studies from 2000 to 2016. Information and findings in this review were taken from electronic journals in some websites including PubMed, Elsevier, ISI, Google scholar, SID and relevant books. C. mas L. is important in terms of decoration and is used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, cholera, fever, malaria, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, cancer, bleeding and heat stroke. Several studies have shown that Cornelian cherry fruit plays an important role in prevention of atherosclerosis, blood sugar, lipid profiles and reduction of fat accumulation in the liver. Cornelian cherry has antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer effects as well as protecting liver, kidney and cardiovascular system. Using Cornelian cherry in pharmaceutical and food industries has caused fantastic value of this plant. Pharmaceutical properties of Cornelian cherry seeds, fruits, leaves and stems have led the need of further studies to explore the other unknown effects or review mechanism of its pharmacological effects for preparation of new drugs.
When natives became Africans: A historical sociolinguistic study of semantic change in colonial discourse
Authors: Fitzmaurice Susan
Published: March 2017

The wordnativeis a key term in nineteenth-century British colonial administrative vocabulary. The question is how it comes to be central to the classification of indigenous subjects in Britain’s southern African possessions in the early twentieth century, and how the word is appropriated by colonial citizens to designate the race of indigenous subjects. To answer the question, I construct a semasiological history ofnativeas a word that has to do with the identification of a person with a place by birth, by residence or by citizenship. I track the manner in which speakers invest old words with new meanings in specific settings and differentiate among them in different domains. In the case ofnative, a signal keyword is recruited to do particular work in several contemporaneous discourses which take different ideological directions as the nature of the involvement of their speakers changes. The result is a particularly complicated word history, and one which offers a clue to the ways in which colonial rhetoric is domesticated in specific settings at the very same time as the colonising power eschews it in the process of divesting itself of its colonies.
Delivery modes in case of fetal malformations
Authors: Wataganara Tuangsit , Grunebaum Amos , Chervenak Frank , Wielgos Miroslaw
Published: March 2017

An estimated 276,000 babies die within 4 weeks of birth every year, worldwide, from congenital anomalies. Better quality ultrasound screening can increase the detection of these fetal malformations in the prenatal period. Prenatal counseling for the pregnant woman and her family, regarding the nature of the disease and prognosis is necessary. Options for management in prenatal, perinatal, intrapartum, neonatal, and childhood periods need to be thoroughly discussed, so that the family can make an informed decision. A multidisciplinary approach is usually needed once a decision has been made to optimize fetal outcome, to plan for the timing and location as well as the mode of delivery. In most of the cases, vaginal delivery can be attempted. An elective cesarean delivery should be reserved for maternal concern of dystocia, certain fetal conditions that cesarean delivery will optimize perinatal outcome, or if the parents have a psychosocial determination to have a live-born infant.
Obstetric analgesia – update 2016
Authors: Heesen Michael , Klimek Markus
Published: March 2017

Neuraxial labor analgesia can be initiated via combined spinal-epidural (CSE) or stand-alone epidural. Pros and cons of these techniques are outlined in this review. In recent years computer-integrated patient-controlled epidural analgesia (CI-PCEA) and programed intermittent epidural boluses (PIEB) have been developed, adding to continuous infusion and PCEA for the maintenance of neuraxial analgesia. Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) and fever can occur secondary to labor epidural that both have clinical relevance for the care givers. Insights into the mechanism of epidural fever and treatment strategies for PDPH are outlined. Due to the increase in obesity the specific considerations for this patient group are discussed. New data have been presented for remifentanil, an ultra-shortly acting opioid, that is used in obstetric analgesia. Without breaking new data, the use of nitrous oxide especially by midwives has a kind of renaissance, and this will be discussed, too.
A Computation Fluid Dynamic Model for Gas Lift Process Simulation in a Vertical Oil Well
Authors: Kadivar Arash , Lay Ebrahim Nemati
Published: March 2017

Continuous gas-lift in a typical oil well was simulated using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) technique. A multi fluid model based on the momentum transfer between liquid and gas bubbles was employed to simulate two-phase flow in a vertical pipe. The accuracy of the model was investigated through comparison of numerical predictions with experimental data. The model then was used to study the dynamic behaviour of the two-phase flow around injection point in details. The predictions by the model were compared with other empirical correlations, as well. To obtain an optimum condition of gas-lift, the influence of the effective parameters including the quantity of injected gas, tubing diameter and bubble size distribution were investigated. The results revealed that increasing tubing diameter, the injected gas rate and decreasing bubble diameter improve gas-lift performance.
Optical properties of atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides: observations and puzzles
Authors: Koperski Maciej , Molas Maciej R. , Arora Ashish , Nogajewski Karol , Slobodeniuk Artur O. , Faugeras Clement , Potemski Marek
Published: March 2017

Recent results on the optical properties of monolayer and few layers of semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides are reviewed. Experimental observations are presented and discussed in the frame of existing models, highlighting the limits of our understanding in this emerging field of research. We first introduce the representative band structure of these systems and their interband optical transitions. The effect of an external magnetic field is then considered to discuss Zeeman spectroscopy and optical pumping experiments, both revealing phenomena related to the valley degree of freedom. Finally, we discuss the observation of single photon emitters in different types of layered materials, including wide band gap hexagonal boron nitride. While going through these topics, we try to focus on open questions and on experimental observations, which do not yet have a clear explanation.
Comparison between Vernier-cascade and MZI as transducer for biosensing with on-chip spectral filter
Authors: Martens Daan , Bienstman Peter
Published: March 2017

The Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) and the Vernier-cascade are highly responsive photonic sensors with large design freedom. They are therefore very suitable for interrogation through a broadband source and an on-chip spectral filter, a sensing scheme that is well equipped for point-of-care applications. In this work, the MZI is shown to outperform the Vernier-cascade through a better minimum detectable wavelength shift as well as a higher power efficiency, indicating its superiority in this sensing scheme. Fabricated MZIs yield bulk detection limits down to 8.8×10−7 refractive index units (RIU) in a point-of-care compatible measuring setup, indicating the potential of the proposed sensing scheme.
Functions of GABAergic transmission in the immature brain
Authors: Kirmse Knut , Holthoff Knut
Published: March 2017

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) mediates synaptic inhibition in the adult brain, but acts as a predominantly depolarizing and partially excitatory neurotransmitter in immature neurons. Recent
Cholinergic top-down influences on the auditory brainstem
Authors: Künzel Thomas , Wagner Hermann
Published: March 2017

Descending connections are present in many sensory systems and support adaptive information processing. This allows the sensory brain to code a wider range of inputs. A well characterized descending system is the olivo-cochlear cholinergic innervation of the inner ear, which mediates a reduction of the sensitivity of the inner ear upon perception of intense sounds. Because this inhibits the response to background noise, the olivo-cochlear system supports detection of transient sound events. Olivo-cochlear neurons also innervate the cochlear nucleus through axon collaterals. Here, acetylcholine increases the excitability of central neurons without reducing their temporal precision. Thus their target neurons in the superior olivary complex can more effectively process binaural temporal cues. We argue that the central effect of the olivo-cochlear system augments the peripheral effect. In addition, olivo-cochlear cholinergic neurons are under top-down control of cortical inputs, providing further adaptability of information processing on the level of the auditory brainstem.
Impact of Terms-of-Trade on Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Croatia in the Short Run
Authors: Szomolányi Karol , Lukáčik Martin , Lukáčiková Adriana
Published: March 2017

The terms-of-trade shocks are not main source of business cycles in three post-communist countries (i.e., Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Croatia). The zero or negative reactions of the trade balance in terms-of-trade positive shocks in the countries exhibit the Obstfeld-Svensson-Razin effect, according to which the Harberger-Laursen-Metzler positive effect on terms-of-trade indicates that the smaller the trade balance, the more persistent the terms-of-trade shock is. The conclusions come from the structural vector autoregressive analysis of the cyclical components of terms-of-trade, trade balance, output, consumption, and investment in three post-communist countries.
Moderating Effects between Job Insecurity and Intention to Quit in Samples of Slovene and Austrian Workers
Authors: Jiménez Paul , Milfelner Borut , Žižek Simona Šarotar , Dunkl Anita
Published: March 2017

Job insecurity is a serious stressor in the work environment, with negative work-related outcomes. The effects of job insecurity strongly depend on the country’s economic condition. The present study investigated the relationship among job insecurity, job satisfaction, and the intention to quit as well as possible mediating variables (resources/recovery and stress). The samples of 251 Slovene and 219 Austrian workers were analyzed. The data indicated that job insecurity is related to higher stress and intention to quit as well as to lower resources/recovery at the workplace. Stress is an important mediator in the relationship between resources/recovery and job satisfaction as well as intention to quit. These relationships were found in both samples.
Physico-chemical and optical properties of Er3+-doped and Er3+/Yb3+-co-doped Ge25Ga9.5Sb0.5S65 chalcogenide glass
Authors: Himics Dianna , Strizik Lukas , Holubova Jana , Benes Ludvik , Palka Karel , Frumarova Bozena , Oswald Jiri , Tverjanovich Andrey S. , Wagner Tomas
Published: March 2017

We investigated the physicochemicаl properties, structure and optical properties of the Ge25Ga9.5Sb0.5S65: Er3+/Yb3+ glasses. The Judd-Ofelt theory was used to calculate the intensities of the intra-4f electronic transitions of Er3+ ions. We observed the upconversion photoluminescence (UCPL) at 530, 550, 660 and 810 nm under 980 nm excitation. In the Ge25Ga9.5Sb0.5S65: 0.1 at.% Er3+, we found that the Stokes photoluminescence (PL) at the green spectral region excited by the 490 and 532 nm laser is only ≈5 times higher than the UCPL emission under 810 or 980 nm excitation making these materials attractive for UCPL applications. The addition of 0.1–1 at.% of Yb3+ into Ge25Ga9.5Sb0.5S65: 0.1 at.% Er3+ glass reduces the UCPL as well as the Er3+ ≈1.5 μm emission intensity probably due to the reabsorption processes of the excitation light and concentration quenching. However, the observed Er3+: 4
S
3/2→4
I
13/2 (≈850 nm) emission in the Ge25Ga9.5Sb0.5S65: 0.1 at.% Er3+ sample populates the 4
I
13/2 level, which promises the using of this material for the 1.5 μm optical amplification.
Toward the control of graphenic foams
Authors: Speyer Lucie , Louppe Océane , Fontana Sébastien , Cahen Sébastien , Hérold Claire
Published: March 2017

Graphene-based materials are extensively studied, due to their excellent properties and their wide range of possible applications. Attention has recently been paid to three-dimensional-like graphenic structures, such as crumpled graphene sheets and graphenic foams: these kinds of materials can combine the properties of graphene associating high surface area and porosity, what is particularly interesting for energy or catalysis applications. Most of the synthesis methods leading to such structures are based on graphite oxide exfoliation and re-assembly, but in this work we focus on the preparation of graphenic foams by a solvothermal-based process. We performed a solvothermal reaction between ethanol and sodium at 220°C, during 72 h, under 200 bar, followed by a pyrolysis under nitrogen flow. An extended study of the influence of the temperature (800°C–900°C) of pyrolysis evidences an unexpected strong effect of this parameter on the characteristics of the materials. The optimal conditions provide multi-layer graphene (10 layers) foam with a surface area of 2000 m2·g−1. This work is an important step for the understanding of the mechanisms of the thermal treatment. Post-treatments in different experimental conditions are performed in order to modulate the structure and properties of the graphenic foams.
Non-traditional Ziegler-Natta catalysis in α-olefin transformations: reaction mechanisms and product design
Authors: Nifant’ev Ilya , Ivchenko Pavel , Tavtorkin Alexander , Vinogradov Alexey , Vinogradov Alexander
Published: March 2017

This paper describes our recent results in the field of zirconocene-catalyzed α-oltfin transformations, and focuses on questions regarding the reaction mechanism, rational design of zirconocene pre-catalysts, as well as prospective uses of α-olefin products. It has been determined that a wide range of α-olefin-based products, namely vinylidene dimers, oligomers and polymers, can be prepared via catalysis by zirconocene dichlorides, activated by a minimal (10–20 eq.) amount of MAO. We assumed that in the presence of minimal quantities of MAO, various types of zirconocene catalysts form different types of catalytic particles. In the case of bis-cyclopentadienyl complexes, the reactive center is formed under the influence of R2AlCl, which makes the chain termination via β-hydride elimination significantly easier, with α-olefin dimers being formed as the primary product. Bis-indenyl complexes and their heteroanalogues, form stable cationic catalytic particles and effectively catalyze the polymerization. Mono-indenyl and mono-substituted bis-cyclopentadienyl-ansa complexes catalyze α-olefin oligomerization. Effective catalysts of dimerization, oligomerization and polymerization of α-olefins in the presence of minimal MAO quantities are proposed. Prospects of using α-olefin dimers, oligomers and polymers in the synthesis of branched hydrocarbon functional derivatives (dimers), high quality, low viscosity motor oils (oligomers), and thickeners and absorbents (polymers) are examined.
The miracle of St. Alfege’s Hospital and the history of the treatment of myasthenia gravis
Authors: Croitoru Cristina , Turliuc Dana , Danciu Florentina , Cucu A. , Costea Claudia
Published: March 2017

Having a recent history, the neurological condition called myasthenia gravis has raised dilemmas and questions among doctors since it was first discovered in the 16th century and it has not ceased to be a challenge. Nowadays, neuroscience researchers from around the world have been striving to perfect a modern treatment of this condition. Our paper is an incursion into the past, more precisely into the history of the treatment of this disease, from its origin to date, when immunological therapy has progressed.
When hanging caused an intracranial haemorrhage - a rare case report
Authors: Kulshreshtha Vardan , Kumar Ashok , Jaiswal Gaurav , Gupta Tarun Kumar
Published: March 2017

Depressive illness is a growing health hazard into modern era days. Depression may sometimes result in suicidal tendency in a major number of patients. Suicidal attempt not only leads to loss of life, but also a significant number of survivors retain various morbidity. We here report a rare case of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) following a suicidal attempt by hanging.
The Stimulation of Students’ Interest in the Teaching by Competency-based Approach: Latin American Perspective
Authors: Zhyzhko Olena
Published: March 2017

This article presents the results of scientific-pedagogical research, which consisted in identifying, what are the best strategies of stimulation of students’ interest in the teaching by competency-based approach studying the works of Latin American scientists. With support in the pedagogic-comparative study the author has found out that in the Mexican education system the competency-based approach has been implemented since 2009 through the new national educational policies and Reform of Basic Education in which documents it is argued that competence means putting in play knowledge, attitudes, skills and values for achieving purposes in certain contexts and situations. One of the key tasks of the teacher is to lead and keep the attention of his/her students towards certain goals. Motivation to learning represents the socio-emotional or psychosocial variables (social identity, attitude to the subject, motivation), involved in learning on par with the educational variables (teacher, methodology, learning context); individual variables (subject learning abilities, aptitudes, needs, personality); socio-demographic variables (student’s age, sex, socio-economic and socio-cultural level); sociopolitical context variables (importance in the society of knowledge that provides the subject). The study has showed that the best strategies for stimulation of students’ interest in the learning by competency-based approach, following the Latin American scientists, are, among others, modeling, adapting, making the content of the studied discipline “accessible” to the student’s needs; developing students’ autonomy in learning; promoting conscious learning; establishing dynamic and equitable system of interrelations in the class; creating positive psychological environment; raising the illustrative and dynamic teaching; ensuring the self-control and self-regulation; using the error as part of the learning process (and not as punitive).
The Problem of Linguistic Self-Education in World Theory and Practice (Historical and Pedagogical Aspects)
Authors: Shumskyi Oleksandr
Published: March 2017

In the paper it has been grounded that under the conditions of forming postindustrial epoch, which is characterised by the processes of globalisation and informatisation, there exists a social demand for the specialists who have a formed preparedness for continuous self-education, including linguistic self-instruction. This presupposes developing innovative and strategic thinking as well as realising the objective necessity of continuous enhancing of their proficiency level, which is a key factor of interaction with dynamic and changeable professional environment with rapid obsolescence of knowledge, constant technological advancement, etc. It has been proved that nowadays the role of self-education, as the instrument of forming highly-qualified professionals with sufficient knowledge of foreign languages, is always growing in different countries. Therefore, educators are continually facing the task of improving the theoretical and methodological base of teaching students to be autonomous in their studies. It has been substantiated that, in view of the principle of continuity in science, introducing any innovations into the learning process in linguistic self-education should be preceded by the profound studying of the pedagogically valuable theoretical and practical experience, gained by the previous generations of researchers. Thus, the retrospective analysis of basic historical milestones of evolving the phenomenon “linguistic self-education” has been conducted and its results have been presented in this work.
Implementation of Gender Studies Results into Teacher Training in Germany: Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Gryvkova Olena
Published: March 2017

Introduction of gender-specific approaches in education is a new step in the development of pedagogical anthropology. Pedagogy as a fundamental complex discipline, which is based on the latest achievements of knowledge about a human, cannot stand aside the transformational modifications of the societies and cannot help responding to their challenges. Recently, gender studies have become an integral part of pedagogy and gender issues have been available in different areas of teaching. Category of gender, theoretical approaches and empirical results of gender studies represent a challenge to professional training of teachers. In the defined context especially important are the ideas highlighted in the works of some leading contemporary German scholars who have made significant contributions to the establishment and development of gender pedagogy in Germany. The author performs a theoretical analysis of the present state of incorporation of results of gender studies into teachers’ training process at German universities; the levels of pedagogical action which these results challenge have been emphasized. Particular attention has been paid to the perspectives of implementation of results of gender studies into professionalism – focused teachers’ training on the example of German educational experience. Perspective directions for further studying can be various program models of application of gender studies in organizational and pedagogical foundations, content and teaching methodology.
Teachers’ Motivations and Expectations Regarding Lifelong Learning
Authors: Dabija Dan-Cristian , Abrudan Ioana-Nicoleta , Postelnicu Cătălin
Published: March 2017

The global contemporary economic and social context, in constant change, makes the learning process undergo constant structural changes with profound implications. These transformations also influence practices, principles and methods used in the field of learning and teaching. The present research is focused on the motivations and expectations of teachers regarding lifelong learning. Their main motivator is to improve teaching tools, techniques and methods. The study population consists of educators who teach the national language and literature (Romanian) to national minorities (Hungarian, German, Roma, Tatar, Serbian, Ukrainian, etc.) and to migrants from various states. The respondents have participated in a lifelong learning program.
Two copper(II) coordination polymers constructed by bis(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)methanone and dicarboxylate ligands
Authors: Wang Gao-Feng , Zhang Xiao , Sun Shu-Wen , Sun Hong , Li Hui , Ma Hui-Xuan , Tang Yu-Peng , Gao Xiao-Na , Yang Lei
Published: March 2017

Two new copper(II) complexes, {[Cu(bipmo)(npa)]}
n
(1) and {[Cu(bipmo)(pa)]}
n
(2) (bipmo=bis(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)methanone), were synthesized by solvothermal methods and structurally characterized by elemental analyses, infrared spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The results from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data indicate that the solid state structures of 1 and 2 consist of neutral metal aromatic carboxylate layers, which are pillared by the weak interactions to generate 3D architectures. The topological structures of 1 and 2 are uninodal nets based on 4-connected nodes with the Schläfli symbol of (65·8).
Resolution of glucose intolerance in long-term high-fat, high-sucrose-fed mice
Authors: Kowalski Greg M , Kraakman Michael J , Mason Shaun A , Murphy Andrew J , Bruce Clinton R
Published: March 2017

The high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFSD)–fed C57Bl/6 mouse is a widely used model of prediabetes. However, studies typically implement a relatively short dietary intervention lasting between 4 and 16 weeks; as a result, little is known about how a long-term HFSD influences the metabolic profile of these mice. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to examine the effects of consuming a HFSD for 42 weeks on the development of hyperinsulinaemia and glucose intolerance in male C57Bl/6 mice. Two cohorts of HFSD mice were studied at independent institutes and they underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with measures of plasma insulin and free fatty acids (FFA). Age-matched chow-fed control mice were also studied. The HFSD-fed mice were hyperinsulinaemic and grossly obese, being over 25 g heavier than chow-fed mice, which was due to a marked expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue. This was associated with a 3-fold increase in liver lipid content. Glucose tolerance, however, was either the same or better than control mice due to the preservation of glucose disposal as revealed by a dynamic stable isotope-labelled OGTT. In addition, plasma FFAs were suppressed to lower levels in HFSD mice during the OGTT. In conclusion, we have made the paradoxical observation that long-term HFSD feeding results in the resolution of glucose intolerance in the C57Bl/6 mouse. Mechanistically, we propose that the gross expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue increases the glucose disposal capacity of the HFSD-fed mouse, which overcomes the prevailing insulin resistance to improve glucose tolerance.
Good to Great: Quality-Improvement Initiative Increases and Sustains Pediatric Health Care Worker Hand Hygiene Compliance
Authors: McLean Heather S. , Carriker Charlene , Bordley William Clay
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE:

The Joint Commission, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization challenge hospitals to achieve and sustain compliance with effective hand hygiene (HH) practice; however, many inpatient units fail to achieve a high level of reliability. The aim of the project was to increase and sustain health care worker (HCW) compliance with HH protocols from 87% (level of reliability [LOR] 1) to ≥95% (LOR 2) within 9 months on 2 pediatric inpatient units in an academic children’s hospital.

METHODS:

This study was a time-series, quality-improvement project. Interventions were tested through multiple plan-do-study-act cycles on 2 pediatric inpatient units. HH compliance audits of HCWs on these units were performed randomly each week by the hospital infection prevention program. Control charts of percentages of HCW HH compliance were constructed with 3-σ (data within 3 SDs from a mean) control limits. These control limits were adjusted after achieving significant improvements in performance over time. Charts were annotated with interventions including (1) increasing awareness, (2) providing timely feedback, (3) empowering patients and families to participate in mitigation, (4) providing focused education, and (5) developing interdisciplinary HH champions.

RESULTS:

HH compliance rates improved from an average of 87% (LOR 1) to ≥95% (LOR 2) within 9 months, and this improvement has been sustained for >2 years on both pediatric inpatient units.

CONCLUSIONS:

Significant and sustained gains in HH compliance rates of ≥95% (LOR 2) can be achieved by applying high-reliability human-factor interventions.
Neurodevelopment: The Impact of Nutrition and Inflammation During Preconception and Pregnancy in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Vohr Betty R. , Poggi Davis Elysia , Wanke Christine A. , Krebs Nancy F.
Published: March 2017

The rapid pace of fetal development by far exceeds any other stage of the life span, and thus, environmental influences can profoundly alter the developmental course. Stress during the prenatal period, including malnutrition and inflammation, impact maternal and fetal neurodevelopment with long-term consequences for physical and mental health of both the mother and her child. One primary consequence of maternal malnutrition, inflammation, and other sources of prenatal stress is a poor birth outcome, such as prematurity or growth restriction. These phenotypes are often used as indications of prenatal adversity. In fact, the original evidence supporting the fetal programming hypothesis came from studies documenting an association between birth phenotype and the development of subsequent physical and mental health problems. Fetal growth restriction in both term and preterm infants is associated with neonatal morbidities and a wide variety of behavioral and psychological diagnoses in childhood and adolescence, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, internalizing and thought problems, poor social skills, and autism spectrum disorder. Improving maternal–child health requires interventions that begin before pregnancy and continue throughout gestation and into the postpartum period. Such interventions might include supporting pregnancy intention, maternal nutrition, health/medical care, mental health, and providing social support. This article discusses the impact of maternal nutrition and inflammation during preconception and pregnancy among women living in low-resource settings, with an emphasis on key knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to guide program and policy decisions at local, regional and global levels.
Presence of mycorrhizal fungi and a fluorescent Pseudomonas sp. in the rhizosphere of cacao in two agroecosystems and their effects on cacao seedling growth
Authors: Ramirez Joaquin Guillermo , Osorno Laura , Osorio Nelson Walter
Published: March 2017

In recent years the cultivation of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) in Colombia has been growing up, resulting in the need to develop a sustainable production system. In this regard, ben eficial soil microorganisms are an alternative for improving plant productivity, but this requires knowledge of their ecology and functioning. This study had the objective of identify and quantify arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and fluorescent Pseudomonas sp. associated with the soil and rhizosphere of cacao plants in two agroecosystems, one of them was in a tropi cal dry forest (TDF) and the other in a tropical moist forest (TMF). In a second stage of the study, native strains of Glomus sp., Acaulospora sp., and fluorescent Pseudomonas sp. were se lected and multiplied in the lab. Subsequently, the effectiveness of these strains to promote cacao seedling growth was tested in a greenhouse experiment. The results indicate that there was a significant (P<0.05) greater mycorrhizal colonization and diversity associated to the roots of cacao growing in agroeco systems of the tropical moist forest. However, not significant differences were detected regarding the presence of fluorescent Pseudomonas sp. in the two agroecosystems. Otherwise, in the greenhouse experiments, the inoculation with the mycorrhizal fungus Glomus sp. was the only treatment that promoted the cacao seedling growth.
Network analysis of knowledge building on rural extension in Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Holmes , Ramírez-Gómez Carlos Julián , Aguilar-Gallegos Norman , Aguilar-Ávila Jorge
Published: March 2017

Based on the analysis of scientific papers published on rural extension in Colombia since 2010, an interpretive descriptive study was conducted to identify the level of collaboration be tween authors and institutions in the creation, systematization and dissemination of knowledge in rural extension. Informa tion was gathered from a search in bibliographic databases to identify papers published in rural extension. 50 papers were found. They were organized in a database, and using social network analysis, a review of relational structures and indi cators derived from the scientific collaboration between the authors and institutions involved in the publication conducted. Authors from 28 different institutions have participated in the 50 papers identified, 70% of them have been published by re searchers working in the same institution. The findings of this study support the conclusion that actors building knowledge on rural extension in Colombia have a limited intra and inter-institutional articulation, making it urgent to strength public policies and incentives to foster relationships between research groups and institutions.
Detection and genome characterization of Potato virus Y isolates infecting potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in La Union (Antioquia, Colombia)
Authors: Gutiérrez S. Pablo , Marín M. Mauricio , Muñoz E. Daniel
Published: March 2017

Potato virus Y (PVY) is one of the most severe viruses affecting the production of potato (Solanum tuberosum) in the world. This study presents a detailed molecular analysis using nextgeneration sequencing (NGS), IC-RT-qPCR and RT-PCR on the PVY isolates infecting seed-tubers and foliage of potato plants cv. Diacol-Capiro in La Union (Antioquia, Colombia). Analysis of incidence by IC-RT-qPCR in 15 random leaf samples of three cultivation plots and fifteen sprouting tuber eye-buds reveal infection levels between 13.4 and 80%; a higher incidence of 86.7% was observed in seed-tuber samples with threshold cycle (Ct) values as low as 24.3. Genome assembly from a bulk of foliage samples resulted in a consensus PVY genome (PVY_LaUnionF) of 9,702 nt and 399 polymorphic sites within the polyprotein ORF; while the assembled genome from sprouts of tubers has 9,704 nt (PVY_LaUnionT) and contained only six polymorphic nucleotide sites. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrates that the PVY isolates from leaf samples are in the recombinant PVYNTN group (sequence identity >99%); while those from tuber sprouts are in the PVYN/NTN group with identities above 95%. Sanger sequencing of viral capsid suggests the presence of a third variant related to PVYO, a prevalent strain reported in potato fields worldwide.
Microstructural changes and the effect on myofibril proteins in yamu (Brycon amazonicus) fish meat during cold storage
Authors: Castañeda Daniel , Lozano José Manuel , Suárez Héctor
Published: March 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cold storage on yamu fish meat (Brycon amazonicus). The methodology consisted of analyzing two temperatures (0±1.6°C and -8±1°C), two storage periods (13 and 61 hours) and two different sources (farm and river), and determine changes in the protein profile, micro structural, physical and chemical properties (water retention capacity-WRC, pH, texture of yamu meat fillets). The micro-structural changes were observed with optical and scanning electron microscopy. The results of the image analysis of the meat microstructure showed a negative effect from cold storage on the muscle, affecting the connective tissue. Otherwise, the analysis of protein profile demonstrated protein degradation during the cold storage of the yamu meat, such as for heavy chain myosin, actin and a-actinin. In addition, the origin of the fish and the storage temperature had a significant effect on the texture changes (P<0.05); meanwhile, the storage time had a significant effect on the three technological characteris tics of the meat (WRC, pH and texture) (P<0.05). The storage temperature did not significantly affect the WRC (P>0.05).
Morbidade neonatal dos recém-nascidos pré-termo tardios comparados aos de termo precoce
Authors: Lourenço Nuno , Fernandes Marco , Gomes Clara , Resende Cristina
Published: March 2017

Aims: To evaluate and compare neonatal morbidity between late-preterm infants (LPTI) and early term infants (ETI).Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study, including live births at a regional referral maternity hospital in Portugal, in the years 2014 and 2015, with gestational age between 340/7 and 386/7 weeks. LPTI (340/7-366/7 weeks) were considered as cases and ETI (370/7-386/7 weeks) were considered controls. Neonates with congenital malformations, lack of prenatal care and hospitalization for social/maternal reasons were excluded. We evaluated and compared neonatal morbidity between the two groups, using Student's t-test for comparison between means (continuous variables) and Chi-square or Fisher's test for comparison between categorical variables. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated and adjusted (aOR) to birth weight, maternal disease, type of birth and multiple pregnancy. A value of p <0,05 was considered of statistical significance.Results: A total of 1,745 neonates were evaluated: 324 cases (LPTI) and 1,421 controls (ETI). LPTI was associated with a higher frequency of maternal hypertension and gestational diabetes and higher rates of twinning and cesarean section. LPTI also had a higher risk for resuscitation (OR = 2.0 - 95%CI 1.3-3.0); hypoglycemia (aOR = 4.9 - 95%CI 2.9-8.2); hyperbilirubinemia (aOR = 4.8 - 95%CI 3.7-6.2), transient tachypnea (aOR = 6.4 - 95%CI 4.0-10.3); eating difficulties (aOR = 6.6 - 95%CI 4.8-8.9); sepsis (aOR = 4.4 - 95%CI 4.8-8.9); hospital stay ≥5 days (aOR = 8.6 - 95%CI 6.6-11.3); and lower exclusive breastfeeding rate (aOR = 0.2 - 95%CI 0.15-0.3).Conclusions: In comparison to ETI, LPTI presented a higher risk of morbidity. This study reinforces the need for appropriate clinical follow-up of LPTI in the neonatal period.
Hemodynamic effect of intravenous lidocaine during aortic cannulation in cardiac surgery
Authors: Totonchi Ziya , Salajegheh Shirin , Mohaghegh Mahmoud Reza , Kiaei MehrdadMesbah , Shirvani Mohammad , Ghorbanlo Masoud
Published: March 2017

Background

Dissection of aorta is a rare, but fatal complication of aortic cannulation in cardiac surgery can be caused by the sudden rise in blood pressure and hemodynamic variations.

Methods

In this study, 90 patients aged 18 years or older undergoing cardiac surgery were divided into two equal groups. Under similar conditions, trial group received 1.5 mg/kg of lidocaine for 90 s before cannulation and control group received normal saline. Hemodynamic parameters of patients including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and central venous pressure before cannulation and 1, 3, and 5 min after cannulation were recorded in a form. Consumed nitroglycerin (TNG) rate was also measured and recorded.

Results

In the lidocaine group, compared with the placebo group, mean SBP, DBP, and MAP significantly reduced after cannulation (P < 0.05). During the follow-up period, mean HR (P = 0.649) and TNG usage (P = 0.527) were similar in two groups.

Conclusion

Intravenous lidocaine, 1.5 mg/kg, 90 s before cannulation leads to a reduction in SBP, DBP, and MAP, up to 5 min after cannulation, so it can decrease risk of aortic dissection.