bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Novel Erbium(III) Complex Containing Antimony
Authors: Liu Ting , Yang Rong-Gui , Zhong Guo-Qing
Published: March 2018

The novel 3D edta-linked heterometallic complex [Sb2Er(edta)2(H2O)4]NO3·4H2O (H4edta = ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) was synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermal analysis. The complex crystallizes in the monoclinic system with space group Pm. In the complex, each erbium(III) ion is connected with antimony(III) ions bridging by four carboxylic oxygen atoms, and in each [Sb(edta)]− anion, the antimony(III) ion is hexacoordinated by two nitrogen atoms and four oxygen atoms from the edta4− ions, together with a lone electron pair at the equatorial position. The erbium(III) ion is octacoordinated by four oxygen atoms from four different edta4− ions and four oxygen atoms from the coordinated water molecules. The carboxylate bridges between antimony and erbium atoms form a planar array, parallel to the (1 0 0) plane. There is an obvious weak interaction between antimony atom and oxygen atom of the carboxyl group from the adjacent layer. The degradation of the complex proceeds in several steps and the water molecules and ligands are successively emitted, and the residues of the thermal decomposition are antimonous oxide and erbium(III) oxide. The complex was evaluated for its antimicrobial activities by agar diffusion method, and it has good activities against the test bacterial organisms.
ERAP1-Dependent Antigen Cross-Presentation Determines Efficacy of Adoptive T-cell Therapy in Mice
Authors: Schmidt Karin , Keller Christin , Kühl Anja A. , Textor Ana , Seifert Ulrike , Blankenstein Thomas , Willimsky Gerald , Kloetzel Peter-Michael
Published: March 2018

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes can reject established tumors if their target peptide is efficiently presented by MHC class I molecules (pMHC-I) on the surface of cancerous cells. Therapeutic success upon adoptive T-cell transfer (ATT), however, requires additional cross-presentation of the same pMHC-I on noncancerous cells. Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1) is an enzyme that customizes the N-terminus of proteasome-generated peptides so they can be loaded onto MHC-I molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We show here that ERAP1 is critically involved in the process of tumor rejection and assumes a dual role by independently operating on both sides. Direct presentation of two MHC-I–restricted epitopes of a cancer-driving transplantation rejection antigen through ERAP1 moderately affected tumor rejection by adoptively transferred T-cell receptor gene–modified T cells in each case. ERAP1 expression by antigen cross-presenting cells of the ATT recipients was critical for expansion of therapeutic monospecific T cells and correlated with tumor rejection. Specifically, lack of ERAP1 expression in the ATT recipient's noncancerous cells enabled progression of pMHC-I–positive, IFNγ-responsive tumors, despite the presence of antigen-specific functional cytotoxic T lymphocytes. These data reveal a decisive role for ERAP1 in T-cell–mediated tumor rejection and will enhance the choice of MHC-I–restricted epitopes targeted by adoptive T-cell transfer.

Significance: This study demonstrates a role of ERAP1 in the efficacy of adoptive T-cell transfer and has potential to improve personalized T-cell therapy for solid tumors. Cancer Res; 78(12); 3243–54. ©2018 AACR.
Adjuvant Treatment for POLE Proofreading Domain–Mutant Cancers: Sensitivity to Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, and Nucleoside Analogues
Authors: Van Gool Inge C. , Rayner Emily , Osse Elisabeth M. , Nout Remi A. , Creutzberg Carien L. , Tomlinson Ian P.M. , Church David N. , Smit Vincent T.H.B.M. , de Wind Niels , Bosse Tjalling , Drost Mark
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Pathogenic POLE proofreading domain mutations are found in many malignancies where they are associated with ultramutation and favorable prognosis. The extent to which this prognosis depends on their sensitivity to adjuvant treatment is unknown, as is the optimal therapy for advanced-staged or recurrent POLE-mutant cancers.

Experimental Design: We examined the recurrence-free survival of women with POLE-mutant and POLE–wild-type endometrial cancers (EC) in the observation arm of the randomized PORTEC-1 endometrial cancer trial (N = 245 patients with stage I endometrial cancer for analysis). Sensitivity to radiotherapy and selected chemotherapeutics was compared between Pole-mutant mouse-derived embryonic stem (mES) cells, generated using CRISPR-Cas9 (Pole mutations D275A/E275A, and cancer-associated P286R, S297F, V411L) and isogenic wild-type cell lines.

Results: In the observation arm of the PORTEC-1 trial (N = 245), women with POLE-mutant endometrial cancers (N = 16) had an improved recurrence-free survival (10-year recurrence-free survival 100% vs. 80.1% for POLE–wild-type; HR, 0.143; 95% confidence interval, 0.001–0.996; P = 0.049). Pole mutations did not increase sensitivity to radiotherapy nor to chemotherapeutics in mES cells. In contrast, Pole-mutant cells displayed significantly increased sensitivity to cytarabine and fludarabine (IC50 Pole P286R–mutant vs. wild-type: 0.05 vs. 0.17 μmol/L for cytarabine, 4.62 vs. 11.1 μmol/L for fludarabine; P < 0.001 for both comparisons).

Conclusions: The favorable prognosis of POLE-mutant cancers cannot be explained by increased sensitivity to currently used adjuvant treatments. These results support studies exploring minimization of adjuvant therapy for early-stage POLE-mutant cancers, including endometrial and colorectal cancers. Conversely, POLE mutations result in hypersensitivity to nucleoside analogues, suggesting the use of these compounds as a potentially effective targeted treatment for advanced-stage POLE-mutant cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 24(13); 3197–203. ©2018 AACR.
Blackout Poetry: uma poética do corte como rasura
Authors: Pereira Vinicius Carvalho
Published: March 2018

O presente artigo discute a poética do corte perpetrada por Austin Kleon no seu projeto de blackout poetry, em que poemas experimentais são produzidos a partir da rasura de notícias de jornal. Apresentando similaridades com a proposta de Tristan Tzara no último manifesto dadaísta, os poemas em blecaute põem em questão uma produção artística que se dá por excisão, e não por adição, o que subverte os paradigmas mais tradicionais de interpretação de textos literários.
„Ich bewirke Rettung …“ (Ps 12,6)
Authors: Weber Beat
Published: March 2018

To date there have only been a few examinations of the psalms in terms of communication analysis. This article will illustrate the fruitfulness of such an approach by analysing Ps 12 according to it. First it will be demonstrated that the psalm consists of a series of speeches that occur in a liturgical sequence. It opens and closes with intercessory prayer, which forms a frame around a divine oracle in the centre. This oracle is itself further embedded in two instances of human address speech. The speaker functions as a “mediator” on behalf of a persecuted group. He presents their concerns to God in prayer, communicates God’s response back to them, and also communicates messages to them. The closest parallel to such a sequence can be found in the prophets (Habakkuk); as such Ps 12 is reminiscent of “cult prophecy.”
The Unplaced Fragments of P.Bodmer ii (P66)
Authors: Nongbri Brent , Sharp Daniel B.
Published: March 2018

Based on autopsy inspection of the fragmentary leaves of P.Bodmer ii (P66), this article assesses previous efforts to properly position the fragments of P.Bodmer ii that were left unplaced in the initial publication of the codex and offers new suggestions for placements.
Quietist Salafism in France
Authors: Adraoui Mohamed-Ali
Published: March 2018

How do purist Salafist communities frame the issue of politics? Unlike Islamists and Jihadists who are known to display a reluctance towards political engagement, purist Salafists—especially those who live within a non-Muslim-majority country such as France—highlight that Islam has little to do with classical political activism. Consequently, a major issue that needs to be examined is how purist Salafists reconcile their desires to shape the society, through a process of public involvement that stops short of institutional engagement. The key question that is addressed in this piece is: to what extent is the notion of militant apoliticism relevant to describe this specific methods of public engagement?
Sticherus salinoi, a New Species of Sticherus (Gleicheniaceae, Polypodiopsida) from Brazil
Authors: LIMA LUCAS VIEIRA , SALINO ALEXANDRE
Published: March 2018

Sticherus salinoi, a new species of Gleicheniaceae from Brazil, is here described, illustrated, and compared to its most similar species. An identification key to the Neotropical species of Sticherus with glabrous segments is also presented.
Cryptic species among bumblebee mimics: an unrecognized Hemaris hawkmoth (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in eastern North America
Authors: SCHMIDT B. CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2018

Through integrating molecular, morphological and natural history evidence, nominal Hemaris diffinis (Boisduval) of eastern North America is shown to include a second, cryptic species, Hemaris aethra (Strecker) stat. rev. Despite highly divergent mtDNA sequences and differing larval phenotypes, genitalic morphology, habitat and larval host plants, adults of H. aethra and sympatric H. diffinis are externally so similar that H. aethra has remained unrecognized for over a century. With a more northerly distribution than H. diffinis, H. aethra occurs from Manitoba to Nova Scotia and adjacent parts of the United States, the two species occurring in strict sympatry in eastern Ontario and likely other regions. Co-mimicry of Bombus Latreille bumblebee models has likely resulted in phenotypic convergence of H. diffinis and H. aethra, as the two do not appear to be sister taxa, the latter instead being more closely related to the western species H. thetis (Boisduval). The larvae of H. aethra are illustrated for the first time, together with diagnostic images and comparisons of adults. Lectotypes are designated for Hemaris tenuis Grote and Hemaris marginalis Grote.
Sources of Bias in the Monthly CFSv2 Forecast Climatology
Authors: Tippett Michael K. , Trenary Laurie , DelSole Timothy , Pegion Kathleen , L’Heureux Michelle L.
Published: March 2018

Forecast climatologies are used to remove systematic errors from forecasts and to express forecasts as departures from normal. Forecast climatologies are computed from hindcasts by various averaging, smoothing, and interpolation procedures. Here the Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2), monthly forecast climatology provided by the NCEP Environmental Modeling Center (EMC) is shown to be biased in the sense of systematically differing from the hindcasts that are used to compute it. These biases, which are unexpected, are primarily due to fitting harmonics to hindcast data that have been organized in a particular format, which on careful inspection is seen to introduce discontinuities. Biases in the monthly near-surface temperature forecast climatology reach 2°C over North America for March targets and start times at the end of January. Biases in the monthly Niño-3.4 forecast climatology are also largest for start times near calendar-month boundaries. A further undesirable consequence of this fitting procedure is that the EMC forecast climatology varies discontinuously with lead time for fixed target month. Two alternative methods for computing the forecast climatology are proposed and illustrated. The proposed methods more accurately fit the hindcast data and provide a clearer representation of the CFSv2 model climate drift toward lower Niño-3.4 values for starts in March and April and toward higher Niño-3.4 values for starts in June, July, and August.
Fatigue Problems in Dacron Vascular Grafts
Authors: Biedermann H. , Flora G.
Published: March 2018

In our own case as well as in nine others of pseudoaneurysm caused probably by material fatigue in Wesolowsky-Weavenit® bifurcation prostheses there is a striking similarity with regard to manufacturer, year of implantation and regional distribution.

We discuss the causes and consequences of this late vascular-surgical complication.
Global configurations of indigenous identities, movements and pathways
Authors: Singh Priti
Published: March 2018

The social science literature on identity politics around questions of race and ethnicity is profuse, prolix and contentious. Indigenous identity politics have seen a parallel growth and are equally complex. While there are analogies and overlaps, indigenous identities and social movements are neither conceptually nor empirically a sub-set of ethnic identities. The central issue of indigenous groups is the place of first peoples in relation to the nation-state system. This takes different forms in old world states of Asia and Africa to those of new world settler (ex-colonial) states of the Americas and Australasia. While the major issues of the indigenous peoples have expanded beyond their national boundaries, their modes of participation in the national political arenas vary. They share a gradual nationalization of indigenous movements, including stronger links with socio-political forces of the respective countries in the region, a heightened consciousness of global processes and the broadening and enrichment of their socio-cultural and economic objectives. This paper looks at trans-national dimensions of indigenous social movements and identity politics in relation to nation-state policy regimes and examines the varying routes taken by indigenous peoples to achieve their goals.
Effects of strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement combined with bone morphogenetic protein-2 on osteoporotic bone defects healing in rats
Authors: Tao Zhoushan , Zhou Wanshu , Jiang Yunyun , Wu Xingjin , Xu Zhujun , Yang Min , Xie Jiabing
Published: March 2018

The objective of the present study was to incorporate strontium into calcium phosphate cement combined with a lower single-dose local administration of bone morphogenetic protein-2 to enhance its in vivo biodegradation and bone tissue growth. After the creation of a rodent critical-sized femoral metaphyseal bone defect, strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement was prepared by mixing sieved granules of calcium phosphate cement and 5% SrCO3 for medical use, and then strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement with dripped bone morphogenetic protein-2 solution (5 µg) was implanted into the defect of OVX rats until death at eight weeks. The defected area in distal femurs of rats was harvested for evaluation by histology, micro-CT, and biomechanics. The results of our study show that a lower single-dose local administration of bone morphogenetic protein-2 combined local usage of strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement can increase the healing of defects in OVX rats. Furthermore, treatments with single-dose local administration of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement showed a stronger effect on accelerating the local bone formation than calcium phosphate cement and strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement used alone. The results from our study demonstrate that combination of a lower single-dose local administration of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and strontium-modified calcium phosphate cement had an additive effect on local bone formation in osteoporosis rats.
Audit of healthcare professionals’ attitudes towards patients who self-harm and adherence to national guidance in a UK burns and plastic surgery department
Authors: Heyward-Chaplin Jessica , Shepherd Laura , Arya Reza , O’Boyle Ciaran P
Published: March 2018

Background:

Rates of self-harm injuries are considered to be increasing. The attitudes of healthcare staff towards patients who self-harm may be negative and a small amount of research specifically investigating burns and plastic surgery healthcare professionals has recently been conducted exploring this issue. This study aimed to determine attitudes towards and adherence to national guidance by healthcare professionals in a UK burns and plastic surgery department with respect to patients who self-harm.

Method:

An audit questionnaire, completed in a designated Burns Unit and plastic surgery department, within a UK hospital with a major trauma centre.

Results:

Data were obtained from 59 healthcare professionals. The majority of responders held positive attitudes towards those who had self-harmed. However, a significant minority held negative attitudes, stating that they found it difficult to be compassionate (10%; n = 6) and believing that patients usually self-harm to get attention (9%; n = 5). One-fifth (n = 12) agreed that, on a departmental level, conservative management (as opposed to surgery) was offered more frequently for self-harm injuries compared with accidental injuries, contrary to national guidance. Awareness of national guidance in relation to self-harm injuries was markedly lacking, in only 12% (n = 7/59) and the frequency of completing relevant training was low (34%, n = 20/59).

Conclusion:

Education among healthcare professionals is important, to ensure adherence to best practice. The findings of this study strongly suggest that many healthcare professionals do not know the current best practice. As a result, these highly vulnerable patients may be receiving sub-optimal care, with consequentially poor outcomes.
Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Pretreatment Weight Loss and Survival in Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lau Steven K.M. , Gannavarapu Bhavani S. , Carter Kristen , Gao Ang , Ahn Chul , Meyer Jeffrey J. , Sher David J. , Jatoi Aminah , Infante Rodney , Iyengar Puneeth
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

Socioeconomic status (SES) influences health care outcomes, but the influence of primary payer on cancer-associated wasting is unknown. We hypothesized that primary payer as an indicator of SES would influence pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss and treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective review of medical records identified 1,366 patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) consecutively treated at a tertiary care health system between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2013. Insurance status was obtained from an institutional tumor registry. Cancer-associated weight loss was based on the validated international consensus definition of cachexia. Multivariable regression analyses were used to identify prognostic factors of pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss and survival.

Results:

The cohort included a representative group of patients with a median age at diagnosis of 64 years, 47% females, and 33% patients of nonwhite race. Pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss was present at the time of NSCLC diagnosis in 17%, 14%, 32%, and 38% of patients with stage I, II, III, and IV disease, respectively. Pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss was associated with increasing age at diagnosis, black race, single marital status, tobacco use, and disease stage. Compared with private insurance, Medicaid insurance (odds ratio, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.42 to 3.30) and lack of insurance (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.50 to 3.58) were associated with pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss. Among cachectic patients, comorbidity, histology, tumor grade, and disease stage were prognostic of survival on multivariable analysis; however, primary payer was not.

Conclusion:

Pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss is common in patients with NSCLC, and its presence is significantly associated with lower SES. However, among patients with pretreatment cancer-associated weight loss, SES was not predictive of survival. Early use of cancer cachexia–directed therapies may improve outcomes, and further study on the biologic mechanisms of cancer cachexia will provide novel therapeutic avenues.
LEAF-BEETLES (COLEOPTERA, CHRYSOMELIDAE) OF THE PROTECTED AREAS OF VORONEZH CITY
Authors: Каданцев Михаил , Kadancev Mihail
Published: March 2018

From April to August 2017 the study was conducted the aim of which was intended to identify representatives of phytophagous family Chrysomelidae using trophic purpose, vegetative parts of plants growing in field collections of introduced and cultivated species. To identify trophic relations of beetles with the potential host plants to find the potentially dangerous pests when introducing new plants into culture. Studies of leaf beetles in the territories of Botanical gardens, parks and squares of Voronezh identified 15 species of Coleoptera, using trophic purpose, vegetative parts of green space. Six species of beetles from among the following indigenous fauna were first observed on the leaves of introduced plants.
Comparative characteristic of three types of forest plantations of siberian stone pine in the Tomsk region
Authors: Пуджа Геннадий , Pudzha Gennadiy , Данченко Анатолий , Danchenko Anatolij , Кабанова Светлана , Kabanova Svetlana , Данченко Матвей , Danchenko Matvey
Published: March 2018

In the subzone of the southern taiga in the territory of the Tomsk region trial plots in forest cultures under the canopy of the forest have been laid, the reconstruction of low-value plantings and subsequent crops has been done. Biometric indicators have been studied and a comparative analysis of three types of plantations has been made. It is revealed that the growth of artificial plantations of Siberian stone pine is largely influenced by competition from adult trees in the main canopy in sub-cultures and in artificial plantations created during the reconstruction process. The preservation of sub-negative cultures has varied from 55.6 to 64.4% at 43 years old age and has been 59.8% at 32 years old age. Sub-negative plantations on the test plot with greater density have considerably lagged behind in growth from the sites with lower density with other identical growing conditions and age. Preservation of forest plantations created by reconstruction in areas without a main canopy has amounted to 72.6%, on a plot with an adult stand - 46.8%. The diameter of the trees on the reconstruction without the main canopy has been 2.1 times different, the height - 1.8 times in favor of the plantations in the area where the low-value plantation have been cut down. In subsequent plantations, in those test plots where pure pine tree plantations have been preserved, the height and diameter of the trees has been also greater than those in the samples with the existing admixture of hardwoods. In general, subsequent plantations significantly exceed the growth of subordinate and reconstructed crops. The growth of sub-cultures is significantly affected by the competition of the root systems of adult plants of the main canopy, shading and lack of nutrients.
INVESTIGATION OF THE ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF BARKING WASTE GRINDING BY IN-STALLATION WITH A KNIFE WORKING BODY
Authors: Бастриков Дмитрий , Bastrikov D. , Власов Юрий , Vlasov Yuriy , Кучер Сергей , Kucher Sergey
Published: March 2018

Abstract The subject of the proposed study is aimed at studying the process of grinding barking waste. The main tasks of experimental research are to establish general patterns linking the energy intensity of grinding of debarking waste with the degree of grinding and to estimate the energy intensity of the grinding operation of barking waste in prepara-tion for utilization. The article presents the results of experiments on crushing waste from spruce and pine, performed with the Erdwich M600 / 1-400 industrial choppers. For each of the two species, 9 groups of experimental material have been examined at different humidity and degree of grinding. It is shown that the specific energy intensity of grinding waste from spruce and pine barking is associated with the relative humidity of the barking waste and the degree of their grinding by a nonlinear dependence repeating the structure of the Kirpichev-Kick grinding law; corresponding mathematical models are got. It has been established that the ratio of heat combustion of the dry matter contained in the bark crushing product ("energy cost") and the energy expended for its crushing ("energy prime cost") depends on the relative humidity of the bark, and the dependence has a minimum point. The optimum moisture content of the waste products from the spruce, subject to grinding, is 25%, pine - 27%. It is established that the specific energy intensity of grinding waste from debarking spruce and pine with the optimum humidity is proportional to the natural logarithm of the degree of grinding. With optimum humidity for grinding waste, debarking sprues in 5-15 times requires energy consumption of 5-10% of the calorific value. At optimum humidity for pine waste grinding in 5-15 times, energy making 7-14% of a heat of combustion is required
FACTORS OF THE RISK REDUCTION OF COLLISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES MACHINES AND INJURY OF DRIVERS
Authors: Белова Татьяна , Belova Tat'yana , Растягаев Владимир , Rastyagaev Bladimir , Сухов Сергей , Suhov Sergey , Баранов Юрий , Baranov Yuri , Старченко Елена , Starchenko Elena
Published: March 2018

Increasing the safety of drivers of motor vehicles (MV) used in rural and forestry is an urgent task due to the high level of injuries. Analysis of injury statistics of drivers of motor vehicles and conducted studies has revealed that these ma-chines are sources of increased danger in the performance of transport operations. For the functioning of a device that re-duces traumatism and increases the safety of MV drivers in carrying out transportation of agricultural products and removal of timber, it is necessary to know the magnitude of MV braking distance in real traffic conditions, which is determined theoretically. The imperfection of the methods for determining the real stopping distance of modern VMs used in forestry and agriculture is due to the fact that they do not take into account a number of operational and constructive factors. When determining the length of the braking distance according to the existing analytical dependencies, the error can be from 25% to 35%. Reducing the risk of collision of VM during transportation of agricultural products and performing logging operations is proposed to be provided by improving the method of determining the braking distance, taking into account the actual operating conditions. The results and conclusions made in this article can be useful for improving safety of agricultural and forestry vehicles on the roads
ECONOMIC BASIS OF STRATEGIC FOREST PLANNING
Authors: Петров Анатолий , Petrov Anatoliy , Прядилина Наталья , Pryadilina Natalya
Published: March 2018

Currently in Russia there is a need to create a strategic forest planning system : to meet the requirements of the Federal Law № 172-FZ "On the strategic planning in the Russian Federation", to ensure the achievement of specific objectives stated by the Russian government in the "Principles of State Policy in the field of , protection and reproduction of forests in the Russian Federation till 2030 ", based on the new forest law, which takes into account the advanced domestic and foreign experience of legal and normative support of forest relations. According to the authors, the main task of strategic forest planning at the federal level should be the establishment of sectoral and regional priorities. In addition, the distribution of forest resources on the territory of the country requires, along with an assessment of sectoral priorities, justification of the conditions for the effective allocation of industries to economic regions and subjects of the Russian Federation. At the level of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, the forest plan in the format of regional medium-term program for strategic development of the forest sector should be an effective tool that allows not only to achieve the goals and objectives of state policy in the sphere of forest use, reproduction, protection and protection, but also to positively influence the economy of the region and the country generally. It is necessary to form regional strategic planning document on a block (modular) basis in the same way as all plans for social and economic development of the industry at the federal and regional levels are formed. Each activity in it must be targeted, resource-efficient, and also be a subject of external monitoring and control.
Principles of Multiculturality and Human Rights in Latin America – Several Observations
Authors: Krysińska-Kałużna Magdalena
Published: March 2018

This article argues that the concept of multiculturalism, which is an extremely valuable asset, may, in the context of various interpretations, serve to resolve social conflicts. However, it may also generate conflicts. Using examples from several Latin American countries, the text will present some significant elements that drive processes, in which the principles of multiculturalism may be contradictory to the ideal of multiculturalism on which were grounded.
Indigenous Peoples in Paraguay: Dispensable Citizens?
Authors: Makaran Gaya
Published: March 2018

This article aims to sketch out the current situation of indigenous peoples in Paraguay, both from a legal standpoint in terms of rights, that they supposedly enjoy and from the socioeconomic standpoint, which often reveals a huge contrast between reality and law. To this end, the author will briefly review the history of relations between national Paraguayan society and indigenous peoples, the legislative and ideological changes that have shaped this relationship, and the subjective perception that the majority of society has of native peoples.
The Institution of Ombudsman in Latin America as a Guarantee for Propagation of Culture of Peace and Respect for Cultural Diversity, as Exemplified by Selected Countries
Authors: Składowska Joanna
Published: March 2018

The institution of the ombudsman is present in the majority of Latin American countries. In spite of differences in nomenclature or structure, it is characterized by several common features. It is a sui generis state authority, enjoying extensive autonomy and independence. Its main objective is to promote and protect human rights, and the assistance it provides is free and easily available. Introduction of the institution in Latin American countries was related to the democratisation processes that began at the end of the 1980s. This article presents a comparative analysis of ombudsmen in El Salvador (a country with a history of long-term internal conflict), Peru (a country that advocates multiculturalism), and Argentina (a country with a history of military dictatorship). Detailed discussion is preceded by general remarks regarding the genesis, typology and characteristics of the institution. Common initiatives and associations of Ibero-American ombudsmen will also be discussed. This analysis and its conclusions will argue that the institution is both a tool for implementing a culture of peace, and a guarantee for the respect of cultural diversity in Latin America.
Cubans: a Vulnerable Society?
Authors: Dembicz Katarzyna
Published: March 2018

The changes that have been taking place in Cuba in recent years, especially after its resumption of relations with the United States, have lead us to view this insular society as vulnerable. The opening of the economy and the growing importance of the private sector are creating social changes both positive and negative. This article seeks to identify the elements that are weakening Cuban society and making it vulnerable, as well as analyze the conditions that reinforce the stability on the Island. This article is the result of more than three years of research, thanks to the project Quo Vadis Cuba? Implications for Europe and Poland (2011-2013).
The Opportunities and Risks Associated with Exploitation of New Oilfields in Brazil
Authors: Chwiej Edyta
Published: March 2018

Brazil’s domestic energy production has risen in recent years, particularly since the discovery in 2007 of large oil and gas deposits in its pre-salt oilfields. This was an important event in the history of the energy sector in Brazil. The discovery of the new oil fields may be an opportunity for Brazil to improve its energy security and strengthen its position in the international arena. But the future of energy security of Brazil may be threatened by a recent scandal with country’s biggest energy company, Petrobras, mired in national debt, low oil prices, and the potential hazards of the oil industry for the environment. This article reviews the potential benefits and risks of exploitation of Brazil’s new oil deposits.
Research roundup: March 2018
Authors: Thurtle Val , Murray Joy , Lewis Lisa
Published: March 2018

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles that may be of interest to health visitors is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Activity-Based Detection of Cannabinoids in Serum and Plasma Samples
Authors: Cannaert Annelies , Storme Jolien , Hess Cornelius , Auwärter Volker , Wille Sarah M R , Stove Christophe P
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Synthetic cannabinoids are the largest group of new psychoactive substances monitored by the European Monitoring Centre of Drugs and Drug Addiction. The rapid proliferation of novel analogs makes the detection of these new derivatives challenging and has initiated considerable interest in the development of so-called “untargeted” screening strategies to detect these compounds.

METHODS

We developed new, stable bioassays in which cannabinoid receptor activation by cannabinoids led to recruitment of truncated β-arrestin 2 (βarr2) to the cannabinoid receptors, resulting in functional complementation of a split luciferase, allowing readout via bioluminescence. Aliquots (500 μL) of authentic serum (n = 45) and plasma (n = 73) samples were used for simple liquid–liquid extraction with hexane:ethyl acetate (99:1 v/v). Following evaporation and reconstitution in 100 μL of Opti-MEM® I/methanol (50/50 v/v), 10 μL of these extracts was analyzed in the bioassays.

RESULTS

Truncation of βarr2 significantly (for both cannabinoid receptors; P = 0.0034 and 0.0427) improved the analytical sensitivity over the previously published bioassays applied on urine samples. The new bioassays detected cannabinoid receptor activation by authentic serum or plasma extracts, in which synthetic cannabinoids were present at low- or sub-nanogram per milliliter concentration or in which Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol was present at concentrations >12 ng/mL. For synthetic cannabinoid detection, analytical sensitivity was 82%, with an analytical specificity of 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

The bioassays have the potential to serve as a first-line screening tool for (synthetic) cannabinoid activity in serum or plasma and may complement conventional analytical assays and/or precede analytical (mass spectrometry based) confirmation.
Sistema de previdência social no Japão: um estudo através de acordo previdenciário entre Japão e Brasil
Authors: Shimamura Akiyo
Published: March 2018

No Brasil, existe uma grande comunidade de descendentes de japoneses, que é o maior do mundo. Além disso, existem muitas empresas japonesas multinacionais no Brasil, trazendo muito japoneses para cá. Por outro lado, há muitos brasileiros que estão no Japão trabalhando, os quais se chamam DEKASSEGUIS. Com base no intercâmbio entre os dois países, foi assinado o ACORDO DE PREVIDÊNCIA SOCIAL ENTRE O JAPÃO E A REPÚBLICA FEDERATIVA DO BRASIL em dia 29 de julho de 2010, que entrou em vigor no dia 1 de março de 2012. Esse Acordo foi criado com o objetivo de resolver os problemas gerados pelo envelhecimento dos brasileiros residentes no Japão e dos japoneses residentes no Brasil.Neste artigo, analisaremos o Sistema Previdenciário do Japão, aspectos gerais do Acordo Previdenciário firmado entre o Brasil e o Japão, e pontos que devem ser melhorados no referido Acordo.
Os direitos das pessoas deslocadas internamente: uma revisão dos conceitos de cidadania, soberania e estado
Authors: Nascimento Allan Victor Coelho
Published: March 2018

A investigação acerca das pessoas deslocadas internamente (isto é, no interior dos seus países, mas fora dos seus espaços de vida habituais) se mostra um desafio, em virtude dos volumes de pessoas atualmente envolvidas e das condições com que se confrontam, da incapacidade (ou desinteresse) dos Estados nacionais em garantir proteção aos seus cidadãos, e do princípio de neutralidade internacional, que dificilmente permite intervenções externas no sentido da salvaguarda dos direitos humanos. Analisamos o conceito de cidadania, Estado soberano e a noção do não intervencionismo, assim como problematizamos os desafios colocados pela globalização, pela amplitude dos fenômenos migratórios e desrespeitos aos direitos humanos. Acreditamos que a análise pode servir a um maior entendimento sobre os fenômenos migratórios e fragilidade institucional, além da revisão de conceitos. Pode ainda servir para uma revisão crítica da legislação e da possibilidade de institucionalização de órgãos transnacionais de proteção.
A inaplicabilidade da advertência escrita nas sanções de trânsito
Authors: Passaia Daniel Angelo , Turatti Luciana
Published: March 2018

O presente artigo tem como escopo o direito de trânsito brasileiro, área não esmiuçada com a profundeza que merece, notadamente quando se trata da jurisprudência e doutrina especializada. O estudo é relacionado diretamente às sanções previstas nas normatizações do direito de trânsito – Lei 9.503/97 – e, nesta conjectura, pontualmente atinente a substituição da multa pecuniária pela advertência por escrito, cuja estipulação histórica e social, distingue-se amplamente das atuais finalidades. O texto legal é do art. 267 da lei retro citada, conhecida como Código de Trânsito Brasileiro. A problemática, portanto, reside na inaplicabilidade da advertência por escrito, mesmo diante da previsão legal. Hipoteticamente verifica-se afronta à esfera jurídica do indivíduo que sofre aplicação de sanções de natureza leve ou média. O estudo tem por método o qualitativo e como técnicas utiliza-se da análise bibliográfica e documental. A consulta à jurisprudência demonstrou inexistirem resultados contemplando esta discussão em específico, enquanto a doutrina impõe algumas exigências que não se vislumbram na legislação, o que, fez incontroversa, ao menos neste tempo e espaço, a hipótese lançada inicialmente. O estudo atinge diretamente os direitos sociais dos indivíduos, dirigindo-se não somente ao objeto em exame, mas, como toda pesquisa, para os sujeitos.
Conflictos por recursos hídricos interprovinciales y tutela ambiental: el caso de la salinización del Rio Colorado en el sur bonaerense
Authors: Cenicacelaya María De las Nieves , Fuentes Carlos Gonzalo Francisco
Published: March 2018

La Constitución Argentina establece que las provincias son dueñas de sus recursos naturales pero también que cuando éstos son interprovinciales es necesario que su uso y aprovechamiento sea acordado entre las partes; y, finalmente cuando esos acuerdos fracasan, es la Corte Suprema la que debe resolver el conflicto. Los desacuerdos entre las provincias muy frecuentemente suceden por el uso y aprovechamiento de aguas inter-jurisdiccionales. En este trabajo abordaremos el caso de la salinización del Río Colorado, que, como consecuencia del obrar unilateral e inconsulto de la Provincia de La Pampa puede producir graves e irreparables daños al ambiente en el sur de la Provincia de Buenos Aires y que ha provocado recientemente un juicio entre ambas en el más alto tribunal federal.
Contrato de trabalho e o empregado estigmatizado
Authors: Siquerolo Carla , Arruda Talita
Published: March 2018

Durante o exercício do contrato de trabalho o empregador não pode exercer o poder de direção com abusos e desrespeito em face do empregado. Nesse contexto, circunstâncias como o fato de o empregado ser portador de HIV ou outra doença que provoque estigma não podem motivar uma demissão sem justa causa. Pois esta tem caráter discriminatório e não representa a mera execução do poder potestativo de demissão do empregador. Uma vez provada tal situação a demissão será inválida e o empregado terá o direito à reintegração no emprego. É o que assegura Súmula 443 do Tribunal Superior do Trabalho.
A noção de agricultura familiar no direito brasileiro: uma conceituação em torno de elementos socioeconômicos e culturais
Authors: Wienke Felipe Franz
Published: March 2018

A lei 11.326/2006 positivou no direito brasileiro o conceito de agricultura familiar, identificado a partir de elementos essencialmente socioeconômicos. Contudo, ao estender seus efeitos ao conjunto de povos e comunidades tradicionais, a lei acabou por criar um segundo grupo de agricultores familiares, identificado a partir de elementos culturais. O objetivo do artigo é delimitar os contornos de ambos os grupos, apontando seus elementos centrais definidores.
La discriminación por razón de la edad en el mercado laboral y el problema específicos de las nuevas profesiones tecnológicamente dependientes (2015)
Authors: Carvalho Ana Sofia De Magalhães e
Published: March 2018

El artículo en cuestión se propone a analizar, a partir del foco jurídico, la situación de la discriminación por edad como factor impeditivo de acceso y/u permanencia en el mercado de trabajo. Internacionalmente considerase el factor etario como un componente discriminatorio en el mercado de trabajo, principalmente en lo que dice respeto a personas con edad más elevada que son excluidas y substituidas por personas más jóvenes. Por ello, serán examinados los acuerdos y convenciones internacionales, además de las legislaciones y medidas adoptadas por los Estados Unidos de América y Unión Europea – particularmente  por Portugal – con el objetivo de erradicar dicha discriminación el  ámbito laboral. Igualmente serán observadas las cuestiones referentes a las nuevas profesiones tecnológicamente dependientes y sus relaciones con la discriminación por edad y los elementos que dificultan el ingreso y permanencia de personas mayores de cuarenta y cinco años de edad en tales profesiones.
A Comparative Study of Methods for Determining the Concentration of Radon-222 in Spring Waters in Poços de Caldas Plateau, Brazil
Authors: Moreira Flavio Henrique de Souza , Alberti Heber Luiz Caponi , Taddei Maria Helena Tirollo , Silva Nivaldo Carlos , Fleming Peter Marshall
Published: March 2018

Este estudo é uma comparação de métodos para determinar a concentração de radônio (222Rn), que foi realizado em fontes de água natural utilizadas pela população das cidades de Poços de Caldas e Águas da Prata no Planalto de Poços de Caldas, no sudeste do Brasil. O planalto está localizado em área afetada pela reativação de processos vulcânicos que ocorreram durante sua formação. Este é o maior complexo alcalino no Brasil e caracterizado por uma caldeira vulcânica de cerca de 30km de diâmetro, constituída por rochas ígneas plutônicas, onde são encontradas anomalias de urânio e tório. As amostragens foram realizadas em fontes naturais de água distribuídas pelas cidades e a concentração de 222Rn nas águas foi determinada em Becquerel por litro. Os níveis de radiação encontrados nas fontes naturais foram comparados com os limites das doses totais absorvidas por um indivíduo e os padrões de proteção radiológica estabelecidos pela Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS). A determinação da concentração de atividade de 222Rn encontrada nas águas foi possível através da captura de partículas alfa emitidas pelo decaimento do elemento, realizadas com o equipamento profissional de monitoramento de radônio (AlphaGUARD) e também pelo do método de contagem de cintilação líquida, utilizando equipamento da marca Camberra PACKARD. Os maiores valores aferidos foram de 657,2 Bq.L-1, medido pelo AlphaGUARD e, 513,2 Bq.L-1, obtido através do método de cintilação líquida.
Relasi Sunni-Syiah: Refleksi Kerukunan Umat Beragama di Bangsri Kabupaten Jepara
Authors: Sulaiman Sulaiman
Published: March 2018

Lately, Sunni-Shia relation gets a negative response in the Indonesian community. This article based on the research results “The Relation of Sunni-Shia in Bangsri, Jepara, Central Java”. This studyused a descriptive qualitative approach, and data collected with observation,depth interview, and document review. The sosial relation between Sunni-Shia is very harmonious, because it’ssupported by religious tolerance highly. It can be seen in the attitude of both sides to understand and aware toward doctrinal differences which believed. In addition, it can be seen too at the culture of ‘gotong royong’ community that is institutionalized in the associations “jamaah Muawanah” and “Jamaah Manakib”. Both these associations becomea medium of muslim in maintaining the harmony and peace of the religious community.
Kepedulian Muslim Perkotaan terhadap Kehalalan Makanan Produk Pengusaha Mikro Kecil (Kasus pada Masyarakat Muslim Minoritas di Kota Kupang, NTT)
Authors: Yuwono Dandung Budi
Published: March 2018

As a country with a Muslim majority, it is not uncommon for the state to protect the Islamic community from consuming food, drugs and cosmetics that originate from non-halal substances and ingredients. In reality, the state has yet to provide certain guarantee regarding the halal status of a product in accordance to the Islamic law. There are still very few food products from the micro and small industries that posses and propose for halal certification. Micro and small entrepreneurs as of current remain unconcerned regarding the halal status of their products, despite the availability of assistance in the certification process. What about the case in which a minority Muslim community resides amidst a community of non-muslim majority with its local regulation and character in the city of Kupang? For that reason, this explorative research which employed a mixed-method approach will attempt to answer the following questions: (1) what are the concern of urban Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products; and (2) what factors influence the concern of the Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products. The objectives of this research are: (1) obtain an outlook on the concern of Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products; (2) obtain understanding on actions undertaken based on the concern of Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products; and (3) to identify the factors influencing the concern of Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products.The research result shows a high concern of Muslim community in the city of Kupang regarding the halal status of micro/small business food products. It is proven that as much as 77% of respondents stated they always checked the halal label of packaged food, 48% of respondents stated that they always asked fast food vendors whether lard based oil is used, 86% of respondents said that they would speak fairly if they knew that a chicken vendor is selling meat that has gone bad, 97% of respondents said they refused to continue their purchase when entering a restaurant offering menu of chicken, goat, or beef that is processed side by side with pork, and as much as 88% of respondents stated that they would report a seller who mixes chicken or other meat with pork. The high level of concern demonstrated by the Muslim community in the city of Kupang is caused by a sociological factor, wherein being a minor community living in a community with differing religious norms has in fact triggered the community’s awareness in the importance of halal products.