bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Advance Care Planning Using the Integrated Behavioral Model
Authors: McAfee Colette A. , Jordan Timothy R. , Sheu Jiunn-Jye (J. J.) , Dake Joseph A. , Kopp Miller Barbara A.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To explain and predict racial or ethnic disparities in advance care planning (ACP) behaviors among American adults by using the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) and the Precaution Adoption Process Model.

Methods

A randomized, observational, nonexperimental, cross-sectional study design was used to survey American adults between 40 and 80 years of age ( n = 386).

Results

The majority of respondents (75%) had not completed ACP. Significant differences were found by race or ethnicity: 33% of Whites had completed ACP versus Hispanics (18%) and Blacks (8%). Whites had statistically significantly higher levels of most IBM constructs compared with Blacks and Hispanics. The IBM predicted 28% of the variance in behavioral intention. After controlling for sociodemographic variables, direct attitudes, indirect attitudes, and indirect perceived norms were significant predictors of behavioral intention.

Conclusion

The IBM and the Precaution Adoption Process Model are useful frameworks for interventions designed to increase ACP among racial or ethnic minorities in the United States.
Effects on pain of a stepwise multidisciplinary intervention (STA OP!) that targets pain and behavior in advanced dementia: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pieper Marjoleine JC , van der Steen Jenny T , Francke Anneke L , Scherder Erik JA , Twisk Jos WR , Achterberg Wilco P
Published: February 2017

Background:

Pain in nursing home residents with advanced dementia remains a major challenge; it is difficult to detect and may be expressed as challenging behavior. STA OP! aims to identify physical and other needs as causes of behavioral changes and uses a stepwise approach for psychosocial and pharmacological management which was effective in improving challenging behavior.

Aim:

To assess whether implementation of the stepwise multidisciplinary intervention also reduces pain and improves pain management.

Design:

In a cluster randomized controlled trial (Netherlands National Trial Register NTR1967), healthcare professionals of intervention units received the stepwise training, while training of the control group focused on knowledge and skills without the stepwise component. Observed and estimated pain was assessed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months post-intervention. Logistic generalized estimating equations were used to test treatment and time effects.

Setting/participants:

A total of 21 clusters (single nursing home units) in 12 Dutch nursing homes included 288 residents with advanced dementia (Global Deterioration Scale score 5, 6, or 7): 148 in the intervention and 140 in the control condition.

Results:

The multilevel modeling showed an overall effect of the intervention on observed pain but not on estimated pain; Pain Assessment Checklist for Seniors with Limited Ability to Communicate–Dutch version, mean difference: −1.21 points (95% confidence interval: −2.35 to −0.06); Minimum Dataset of the Resident Assessment Instrument pain scale, mean difference: −0.01 points (95% confidence interval: −0.36 to 0.35). Opioid use increased (odds ratio = 3.08; 95% confidence interval: 1.08–8.74); paracetamol use did not (odds ratio = 1.38; 95% confidence interval: 0.71–2.68).

Conclusion:

STA OP! was found to decrease “observed” pain but not estimated pain. Observing pain-related behavior might help improve pain management in dementia.
Effects of acute and repeated treatment with the biased mu opioid receptor agonist TRV130 (oliceridine) on measures of antinociception, gastrointestinal function, and abuse liability in rodents
Authors: Altarifi Ahmad A , David Bethany , Muchhala Karan H , Blough Bruce E , Akbarali Hamid , Negus S Stevens
Published: February 2017

Rationale:

TRV130 (oliceridine; N-[(3-methoxythiophen-2-yl)methyl]-2-[(9 R)-9-pyridin-2-yl-6-oxaspiro[4.5]decan-9-yl]ethanamine) is a novel mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonist that preferentially activates G-protein versus β-arrestin signaling pathways coupled to MORs. Prevailing evidence suggests that TRV130 and other G-protein-biased MOR agonists may produce therapeutic analgesic effects with reduced adverse effects compared to existing MOR agonists.

Objectives:

This study compared the effects of acute and repeated TRV130 administration on measures of antinociception, gastrointestinal function, and abuse liability in rodents. We hypothesized that TRV130 would produce robust and sustained antinociception and abuse-related effects during repeated treatment, but that tolerance would develop to gastrointestinal inhibition.

Methods:

Antinociception was assessed using a warm-water tail-withdrawal procedure in mice. Gastrointestinal function was assessed in mice using an in vivo measure of fecal output and in vitro assays of colonic propulsion and of colon and ileum circular muscle contraction. Abuse liability was assessed in rats using an intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) procedure. (+)-TRV130 was administered with acute and repeated dosing regimens, and (–)-TRV130 was also examined in the ICSS procedure to assess stereoselectivity.

Results:

Acute (+)-TRV130 treatment produced robust antinociception, complete inhibition of gastrointestinal function, and weak abuse-related effects. Repeated (+)-TRV130 treatment failed to produce tolerance to antinociception or gastrointestinal inhibition, and abuse-related effects were enhanced by repeated treatment. Effects of acute and repeated (+)-TRV130 in these procedures resemble effects of morphine, with the exception that TRV130 antinociception was more resistant to tolerance. (–)-TRV130 was inactive.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that TRV130 retains undesirable constipating and abuse-related effects during repeated treatment despite its bias for G-protein signaling.
Does Allograft Augmentation of Small-Diameter Hamstring Autograft ACL Grafts Reduce the Incidence of Graft Retear?
Authors: Pennock Andrew T. , Ho Brian , Parvanta Kristina , Edmonds Eric W. , Chambers Henry G. , Roocroft Joanna H. , Bastrom Tracey P.
Published: February 2017

Background:

Small-diameter hamstring tendons are frequently encountered during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions in patients with short stature or those who are skeletally immature. The role of augmenting these small-diameter autografts with allograft is unclear.

Purpose:

To assess clinical outcomes and failure rates in adolescent patients with small hamstring tendon autografts (<7 mm) that were either augmented with soft tissue allograft or accepted “as is” and not augmented.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of all primary ACL reconstructions performed with hamstring autografts identified 385 patients, of whom 50 (13%) had a quadrupled (semitendinosus-gracilis) graft size less than 7 mm. Patients were grouped based on the surgeon’s preference either to augment these grafts with allograft (augmented group; n = 26) or to accept the smaller autograft (nonaugmented group; n = 24). Preoperative demographic, injury, and intraoperative data were documented. All patients were contacted to obtain information about outcome scores, subsequent procedures, and complications. Forty patients (20 in each group) were available for 2-year follow-up.

Results:

The mean age of the entire cohort was 15.7 years (range, 12-18 years), and 38% were male. No between-group differences were found with respect to any of the preoperative or intraoperative variables except extremity side. The mean graft size for the augmented group was 8.9 mm and for the nonaugmented group was 6.4 mm. At a mean follow-up of 3 years, 6 (30%) of the patients in the augmented group had a graft failure, whereas only 1 (5%) in the nonaugmented group had a failure ( P = .04). Five of the 6 augmented failures occurred within 1 year of surgery, whereas the single failure in the nonaugmented group occurred 2.7years postoperatively. No differences were noted in the reported outcomes between patients in the augmented and nonaugmented groups who did not experience graft failure (Lysholm score, 88 vs 92; Tegner score, 6.4 vs 6.3; single-assessment numeric evaluation score, 86 vs 86; satisfaction, 8.4 vs 8.9, respectively).

Conclusion:

Adolescents undergoing an ACL reconstruction frequently have small hamstring tendon autograft size. The augmentation of these small grafts with allograft does not reduce graft failure rates and may in fact lead to higher retear rates, with earlier graft failure.
Axillary Skip Metastases and the False-Negative Rate of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Patients With Breast Cancer Are Related to Negative ALDH-1 Expression and Ki-67 Expression
Authors: Kim Woo Gyeong , Lee JungSun
Published: February 2017

Breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been hypothesized to be the driving force behind tumorigenesis and metastasis. In this study, we evaluated the relationships between CSC expressions in primary breast cancers and corresponding metastatic sentinel and nonsentinel lymph nodes (SLNs and NSLNs). The clinical implications of these relationships were also investigated. CSC expressions were evaluated in 167 breast cancer specimens and associated lymph node biopsies (when present). We used double immunohistochemistry of CD44/CD24 and single immunohistochemistry of ALDH-1 on paraffin-embedded breast tissue, SLN, and NSLN specimens. Seven cases had metastatic NSLNs without SLN involvement—so-called “skip metastasis.” Fifty cases of SLNs (29.9%) and 33 cases of NSLNs (25.7%) had metastases. In the breast cancers, metastatic SLNs, and NSLNs, the expression rates of CD44+/CD24− were 47.9%, 26.1%, and 34.6 %, respectively, while the expression rates of ALDH-1+ were 42.5%, 36.4%, and 33.3%, respectively. Significant relationships were not observed between CSC expressions in breast cancer and metastatic SLNs or NSLNs. The presence of skip metastasis correlated with negative ALDH-1 in breast cancer ( P = .04), as well as several clinicopathologic factors: age >50 years ( P = .004), negative lymphovascular tumor emboli ( P = .02), and high Ki-67 expression ( P = .04). Axillary lymph node metastasis showed no significant relationship with any CSC marker. However, CD44+/CD24− and ALDH-1 expressions of metastatic SLNs correlated with CSCs of primary breast cancers. In summary, skip metastasis correlated with negative expression of ALDH-1 in primary breast cancers, which could be promising as a means of assessing the risk of skip metastasis.
Incidence and Radiographic Predictors of Valgus Tibiotalar Tilt After Hindfoot Fusion
Authors: Miniaci-Coxhead Sara Lyn , Weisenthal Benjamin , Ketz John P. , Flemister A. Samuel
Published: February 2017

Background:

The development of valgus tibiotalar tilt following hindfoot arthrodesis is rarely discussed in the literature. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of valgus tibiotalar tilt and to evaluate if there were any radiographic predictors for the development of valgus tibiotalar tilt.

Methods:

Patients who underwent hindfoot fusion between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2013 were identified. Charts were reviewed for demographic information and operative details. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were reviewed for the development of tibiotalar tilt, and standardized measurements and angles were calculated. A total of 187 patients were included. There were 106 (56.7%) females and 81 (43.3%) males. The average age was 52 years (range, 11-82 years). The most common indication for surgery was adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (n = 92, 49.2%), followed by arthritis (n = 83, 44.4%). The most common procedure was triple arthrodesis (n = 101, 54%). Twenty-seven patients demonstrated tibiotalar tilt preoperatively.

Results:

A total of 51 patients (27.3%) developed valgus tibiotalar tilt postoperatively at an average of 3.6 months after surgery. We found that an increase in the preoperative Meary (lateral talar–first metatarsal) angle (hazard ratio, 1.039; 95% confidence interval, 1.002-1.077; P < .05) was associated with the development of tibiotalar tilt. An increase in the postoperative Meary angle (hazard ratio, 1.052; 95% confidence interval, 0.999-1.108; P = .0528) approached significance for the development of tibiotalar tilt.

Conclusion:

The development of valgus tibiotalar tilt following hindfoot fusion was a notable phenomenon, occurring in 27% of our patient population. The preoperative Meary angle was the only radiographic measurement that was significantly associated with the development of valgus tibiotalar tilt, although the postoperative Meary angle approached significance. These findings should encourage surgeons to be aware of patients with large deformities and of their propensity to develop a valgus deformity about the ankle.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
SAMe-TT2R2 predicts quality of anticoagulation in patients with acute venous thromboembolism: The MAQI2 experience
Authors: Kataruka Akash , Kong Xiaowen , Haymart Brian , Kline-Rogers Eva , Almany Steve , Kozlowski Jay , Krol Gregory D , Kaatz Scott , McNamara Michael W , Froehlich James B , Barnes Geoffrey D
Published: February 2017

A high SAMe-TT2R2 score predicted poor warfarin control and adverse events among atrial fibrillation patients. However, the SAMe-TT2R2 score has not been well validated in venous thromboembolism (VTE) patients. A cohort of 1943 warfarin-treated patients with acute VTE was analyzed to correlate the SAMe-TT2R2 score with time in therapeutic range (TTR) and clinical adverse events. A TTR <60% was more frequent among patients with a high (>2) versus low (0–1) SAMe-TT2R2 score (63.4% vs 52.3%, p<0.0001). A high SAMe-TT2R2 score (>2) correlated with increased overall adverse events (7.9 vs 4.5 overall adverse events/100 patient years, p=0.002), driven primarily by increased recurrent VTE rates (4.2 vs 1.5 recurrent VTE/100 patient years, p=0.0003). The SAMe-TT2R2 score had a modest predictive ability for international normalized ratio (INR) quality and adverse clinical events among warfarin-treated VTE patients. The utility of the SAMe-TT2R2 score to guide clinical decision-making remains to be investigated.
“To fill the emptiness”: The importance of work in life history narratives of older adults with schizophrenia-spectrum diagnoses
Authors: Ogden Lydia P
Published: February 2017

Objective: This study’s purpose was to develop an understanding of the importance and meaning of vocational histories, present-time employment status, and vocational goals for older adults who were in treatment for schizophrenia-spectrum diagnoses. Methods: The theory of cumulative adversity and advantage focused 35 semistructured interviews and 43 field observation points that developed life history narratives of seven older adults in treatment for schizophrenia-spectrum diagnoses. Thematic narrative analysis was the primary analytic strategy. Results: Five shared themes within the life history narratives connected to vocational histories: “Purpose is provided by work,” “identity in work,” “perseverance toward value-based vocational goals,” “the importance of an income,” and “illness symptoms and their treatment disrupted work.” Discussion: Findings connect to practice implications for vocational programs for persons with serious mental illnesses, suggesting that vocational services for older adults could be rehabilitative and that vocational assessments should be holistic and values oriented. Psychiatric rehabilitation programs developed specifically for older adults might benefit from the inclusion of vocational rehabilitation options that do not rule out competitive employment. Social workers must be aware of bias in the profession toward persons on the basis of age and serious mental illnesses. Conclusion: In line with current vocational rehabilitation literature, the study concludes that psychiatric rehabilitation treatment that inhibits work can have unintended negative consequences for all persons with serious mental illnesses. Those negative consequences have to potential extend into later life challenges that range from identity challenges to challenges in day-to-day survival.
The Graphesthesia Paradigm: Drawing Letters on the Body to Investigate the Embodied Nature of Perspective-Taking
Authors: Arnold Gabriel , Auvray Malika
Published: February 2017

In this study, we investigated whether adopting a head-centered perspective on the body is an embodied process by means of the graphesthesia task. This task consists of interpreting ambiguous tactile symbols from different spatial perspectives. The results revealed that symbols were more easily recognized when the mental rotation of the head toward the stimulated surface corresponded to physically possible, as opposed to impossible, body movements. Performance also decreased with increasing the amount of body movements that would be necessary to physically rotate the head. These results are in line with an embodied view of spatial perspective-taking, and, more generally, they highlight the important role the body plays in perception.
On Fire
Authors: Spang Bently
Published: February 2017

This essay is my account of the early stages of the creation of the 2014 drawing and video installation titled On Fire. Using a detailed and unmediated first-person point of view, I attempt to humanize a tragic event that the viewer often fails to identify with and process fully when the event is categorized as a Native American experience. The issue of climate change is a human issue that all cultures face. I ask readers to immerse themselves in the landscape and consider the unique relationship my people have always had with the natural world.
The structure of an E. coli tRNAfMet A1–U72 variant shows an unusual conformation of the A1–U72 base pair
Authors: Monestier Auriane , Aleksandrov Alexey , Coureux Pierre-Damien , Panvert Michel , Mechulam Yves , Schmitt Emmanuelle
Published: February 2017

Translation initiation in eukaryotes and archaea involves a methionylated initiator tRNA delivered to the ribosome in a ternary complex with e/aIF2 and GTP. Eukaryotic and archaeal initiator tRNAs contain a highly conserved A1–U72 base pair at the top of the acceptor stem. The importance of this base pair to discriminate initiator tRNAs from elongator tRNAs has been established previously using genetics and biochemistry. However, no structural data illustrating how the A1–U72 base pair participates in the accurate selection of the initiator tRNAs by the translation initiation systems are available. Here, we describe the crystal structure of a mutant E. coli initiator tRNAfMetA1–U72, aminoacylated with methionine, in which the C1:A72 mismatch at the end of the tRNA acceptor stem has been changed to an A1–U72 base pair. Sequence alignments show that the mutant E. coli tRNA is a good mimic of archaeal initiator tRNAs. The crystal structure, determined at 2.8 Å resolution, shows that the A1–U72 pair adopts an unusual arrangement. A1 is in a syn conformation and forms a single H-bond interaction with U72. This interaction requires protonation of the N1 atom of A1. Moreover, the 5′ phosphoryl group folds back into the major groove of the acceptor stem and interacts with the N7 atom of G2. A possible role of this unusual geometry of the A1–U72 pair in the recognition of the initiator tRNA by its partners during eukaryotic and archaeal translation initiation is discussed.
Η συμβολή του Γεράσιμου Ζώρα στη Συγκριτική Γραμματολογία: Γεράσιμος Ζώρας, Ιταλοί λογοτέχνες στο έργο του Παλαμά, Αθήνα, Δόμος, 2003
Authors: Macri Gabriella
Published: February 2017

Δε διατίθεται περίληψη.
Ο γερμανικός αστικός ρεαλισμός και η διηγηματογραφία του Κωσταντίνου Χατζόπουλου
Authors: Πετροπούλου Εύη
Published: February 2017

[Δε διατίθεται περίληψη]
DISPERSE RAW MIXES, THEIR FEATURES OF CAPILLARY STRUCTURIZATION
Authors: Курбатов  , Kurbatov Vladimir , Комарова  , Komarova Natalya
Published: February 2017

In space and in time the structure of any material continuously undergoes changes, to it, in particular, the constant movement of elementary particles, atoms, molecules, interaction of material with the environment promote. For example, almost all construction materials and their raw mixes, at least, at the microlevel, represent the microheterogeneous disperse systems consisting several phases to which number the liquid component belongs. The nature of structure of such systems in many respects is de-fined by character and size of communications or forces of adhesion between structural elements (microparticles, grains, etc.). Depending on the nature of these communications in disperse systems allocate strong phase contacts in condensation or crystallizational structures of disperse materials, direct atomic contacts in dry powders and rather weak forces of molecular interaction operating between particles through layers of a liquid phase in coagulative structures. Besides the types of interactions and the relevant structures considered above it is necessary to allocate such important interactions as capillary, shown in three-phase (firm - liquid - gas) disperse systems to which the majority raw (concrete, the rastvornykh, silicate, etc.) mixes for production of construction composite materials belongs, for example.
Spot the pattern and understand its sequence
Authors: Davis John
Published: February 2017

Work with a range of patterns to learn about the value and properties of numbers, while at the same time sharpening problem solving and investigational skills.
Adolescent patellar instability
Authors: Clark D. , Metcalfe A. , Wogan C. , Mandalia V. , Eldridge J.
Published: February 2017

Patellar instability most frequently presents during adolescence. Congenital and infantile dislocation of the patella is a distinct entity from adolescent instability and measurable abnormalities may be present at birth. In the normal patellofemoral joint an increase in quadriceps angle and patellar height are matched by an increase in trochlear depth as the joint matures. Adolescent instability may herald a lifelong condition leading to chronic disability and arthritis.

Restoring normal anatomy by trochleoplasty, tibial tubercle transfer or medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction in the young adult prevents further instability. Although these techniques are proven in the young adult, they may cause growth arrest and deformity where the physis is open. A vigorous non-operative strategy may permit delay of surgery until growth is complete. Where non-operative treatment has failed a modified MPFL reconstruction may be performed to maintain stability until physeal closure permits anatomical reconstruction. If significant growth remains an extraosseous reconstruction of the MPFL may impart the lowest risk to the physis. If minor growth remains image intensifier guided placement of femoral intraosseous fixation may impart a small, but acceptable, risk to the physis.

This paper presents and discusses the literature relating to adolescent instability and provides a framework for management of these patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:159–70.
Validation of the English language Forgotten Joint Score-12 as an outcome measure for total hip and knee arthroplasty in a British population
Authors: Hamilton D. F. , Loth F. L. , Giesinger J. M. , Giesinger K. , MacDonald D. J. , Patton J. T. , Simpson A. H. R. W. , Howie C. R.
Published: February 2017

Aims

To validate the English language Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12) as a tool to evaluate the outcome of hip and knee arthroplasty in a United Kingdom population.

Patients and Methods

All patients undergoing surgery between January and August 2014 were eligible for inclusion. Prospective data were collected from 205 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and 231 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Outcomes were assessed with the FJS-12 and the Oxford Hip and Knee Scores (OHS, OKS) pre-operatively, then at six and 12 months post-operatively. Internal consistency, convergent validity, effect size, relative validity and ceiling effects were determined.

Results

Data for the TKA and THA patients showed high internal consistency for the FJS-12 (Cronbach α = 0.97 in TKAs, 0.98 in THAs). Convergent validity with the Oxford Scores was high (r = 0.85 in TKAs, r = 0.79 for THAs). From six to 12 months, the change was higher for the FJS-12 than for the OHS in THA patients (effect size d = 0.21 versus -0.03). Ceiling effects at one-year follow-up were low for the FJS-12 with just 3.9% (TKA) and 8.8% (THA) of patients achieving the best possible score.

Conclusion

The FJS-12 has strong measurement properties in terms of validity, internal consistency and sensitivity to change in TKA and THA patients. Low ceiling effects and good relative validity allow the monitoring of longer term outcomes, particularly in well-performing groups after total joint arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:218–24.
Common fixed point theorems for contractive mappings satisfying Φ-maps in S-metric spaces
Authors: Sedghi Shaban , Rezaee Mohammad Mahdi , Došenović Tatjana , Radenović Stojan
Published: February 2017

In this paper we prove the existence of the unique fixed point for the pair of weakly compatible self-mappings satisfying some Ф-type contractive conditions in the framework of S-metric spaces. Our results generalize, extend, unify, complement and enrich recently fixed point results in existing literature.
Implications of rising temperatures for gametophyte performance of two kelp species from Arctic waters
Authors: Park Jihae , Kim Jang K. , Kong Jeong-Ae , Depuydt Stephen , Brown Murray T. , Han Taejun
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the temperature effects on photosynthesis, growth and reproduction in gametophytes of Alaria esculenta (Linnaeus) Greville and Saccharina latissima (Linnaeus) C.E. Lane, C. Mayes, Druehl et G.W. Saunders from the Artic waters. After 24 days of culture, no gametophytes of either species survived at 20°C. Most growth parameters were greater at 10–15°C than at 5°C. Length and width were similar for both species, but area was greater for A. esculenta and cell number was greater for S. latissima. Female gametophytes were larger than male gametophytes in width and area, but the opposite was observed in cell number. In A. esculenta, but not for S. latissima, the percentage of female gametophytes decreased with increasing temperature. Alaria esculenta female gametophytes produced more sporophytes at 5°C than at 10°C, with no sporophytes at 15°C. In S. latissima, all female gametophytes produced sporophytes at both 5°C and 10°C, with a small percentage of sporophytes at 15°C. Saccharina latissima still had a measurable Fv/Fm at 20°C, while the Fv/Fm of A. esculenta was zero at this temperature. Maximum relative electron transport rate (rETRmax) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) were constant in the male and female gametophytes of A. esculenta and the male gametophytes of S. latissima at temperatures between 5°C and 15°C. Photosynthesis was saturated at a higher irradiance in A. esculenta than in S. latissima.
Synthesis and evaluation of chromene-based compounds containing pyrazole moiety as antimicrobial agents
Authors: Youssef Mohamed Salah K. , Abeed Ahmed Abdou O. , El-Emary Talaat I.
Published: February 2017

With an intention to synergize the antimicrobial activity of 1,3-diphenyl pyrazole and chromene derivatives, 20 hybrid compounds were synthesized and evaluated for their antimicrobial activity. Structures of the newly synthesized compounds were established by elemental analysis and spectral data. All compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and antifungal activity by a well diffusion method. Compounds 8, 10, 16 and 21 show reasonable antibacterial and antifungal activity.
Synthesis of a new polycyclic heterocyclic ring system. Part III. Benzo[b]imidazo[1,5-d][1,4]oxazepine-1,4(2H,5H)-diones
Authors: Stanisheva Desislava V. , Gerova Mariana S. , Petrov Ognyan I.
Published: February 2017

A series of novel tricyclic benzoxazepines with fused imidazolone ring was prepared in five steps starting from the corresponding benzoxazolones 1–3. The key to the reported synthetic approach is transformation of 3-(2-oxopropyl)-2(3H)-benzoxazolones 4–6 to 1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-imidazol-2-ones 7–12, and their subsequent conversion to the phenoxyacetic acids 19–24, which were finally acylated in polyphosphoric acid to form the oxazepine ring.
Molecular challenges imposed by MHC-I restricted long epitopes on T cell immunity
Authors: Josephs Tracy M. , Grant Emma J. , Gras Stephanie
Published: February 2017

It has widely been accepted that major histocompatibility complex class I molecules (MHC-I) are limited to binding small peptides of 8–10 residues in length. However, this consensus has recently been challenged with the identification of longer peptides (≥11 residues) that can also elicit cytotoxic CD8+ T cell responses. Indeed, a growing number of studies demonstrate that these non-canonical epitopes are important targets for the immune system. As long epitopes represent up to 10% of the peptide repertoire bound to MHC-I molecules, here we review their impact on antigen presentation by MHC-I, TCR recognition, and T cell immunity.
Determinants of Army Structures Development in the Context of Middle Sized Country Experiences in Contemporary Tactical Operations
Authors: Elak Leszek
Published: February 2017

Although a military organization is a special form of institution, grouping people and resources for the special purposes of defence and fighting in general, it is influenced by the same rules and conditions that other organizations are. Considering the problems of land forces organizational structures in tactical operations it is important to refer to the theory of organization and management which may constitute a point of reference to properly devise and forming up of land forces structures assuming that such forces make up an organization - since this is a team of soldiers including their resources, shaped into an adequate structure and predestined to perform a definite task. The article is an attempt to reveal multiple mutual relations of tactical, technical and economical inventions inflicting structural transformation of the army in the context of the reality of a middle-sized country today.
Overexpression of interferon-γ and indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase in systemic lupus erythematosus: relationship with the disease activity
Authors: Mohammadi Saeed , Sedighi Sima , Memarian Ali , Yazdani Yaghoub
Published: February 2017

Background:

Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) is a tryptophan catabolizing enzyme which is involved in immune regulation and autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) is an inflammatory cytokine which is the major inducer of IDO expression. Here, we evaluated the level of IFN-γ and IDO among SLE patients in correlation with the severity of SLE.

Methods:

Fifty-three SLE patients and 35 age matched healthy donors were enrolled in this study. Systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI) was used to calculate the disease activity. Real-time RT-PCR and ELISA were used to evaluate the gene expression of IDO and IFN-γ plasma concentration, respectively.

Results:

We showed that IDO-1, IDO-2 and IFN-γ were overexpressed among SLE patients significantly (p<0.0001). There were significant positive correlations between IFN-γ with the expression of IDO-1 (r=0.722, p<0.0001) and IDO-2 (r=0.682, p<0.0001). There were also positive correlations between SLEDAI scores with IDO-1 (r=0.675, p<0.0001), IDO-2 (r=0.727, p<0.0001) and IFN-γ (r=0.907, p<0.0001).

Conclusions:

IDO expression and IFN-γ level could be introduced as helpful biomarkers for the determination of disease severity in SLE patients.
Influence of lake basin morphology on recent sedimentation rates based on the example of Lake Raduńskie Górne, N Poland
Authors: Czarnecka Karolina , Dworniczak Janusz
Published: February 2017

The study relates to the use of the 210Pb method for determining sedimentation rates, sedimentation accumulation rates and identifying post-depositional processes. The analysis was based on seven cores of recent sediments collected from different parts of Lake Raduńskie Górne, which is a typical channel lake with diverse bottom morphology. We used alpha spectrometry to determine 210Pb activities in sediment samples and a CF:CS dating model to obtain mean sediment accumulation rates. The results show significant differences between coring sites with highest values in the deepest part of the lake and lowest within the shallow and flat bottom areas. The reason for such a large diversity is the lake basin morphology, e.g. steep slopes and complex configuration of the lake bottom, most probably responsible for the post-depositional sediment replacements.
Media User Types among Young Children and Social Displacement
Authors: Endestad Tor , Heim Jan , Kaare Birgit , Torgersen Leila , Brandtzæg Petter Bae
Published: February 2017

There is a lack of research on the role that new media play in the life of young children under the age of 13 years. Hence, the aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between distinct media user types and social displacement among children under the age of 13. A sample of 1,117 Norwegian schoolchildren from the age of 7 to 12 years responded to a questionnaire about their computer game-playing habits and their use of computers, the Internet, mobile phones and television. The results indicate four specific user types reflecting children’s various uses of new media: a) Advanced Users, b) Offline Gamers, c) Instrumental Users, and d) Low Users. Some indications of displacement were found between TV, reading and drawing and between new media usage and participation in organized sports activities. At the same time, clear indications support the “more is more” hypothesis, which predicts that active media users will be active children.
On the ordeal of quinolone preparation via cyclisation of aryl-enamines; synthesis and structure of ethyl 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-(3-iodo-4-methylphenoxy)-quinoline-3-carboxylate
Authors: Horta Pedro , Henriques Marta S. C. , Brás Elisa M. , Murtinheira Fernanda , Nogueira Fátima , O’Neill Paul M. , Paixão José A. , Fausto Rui , Cristiano Maria L. S.
Published: February 2017

Recent studies directed to the design of compounds targeting the bc
1 protein complex of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for most lethal cases of malaria, identified quinolones (4-oxo-quinolines) with low nanomolar inhibitory activity against both the enzyme and infected erythrocytes. The 4-oxo-quinoline 3-ester chemotype emerged as a possible source of potent bc
1 inhibitors, prompting us to expand the library of available analogs for SAR studies and subsequent lead optimization. We now report the synthesis and structural characterization of unexpected ethyl 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-(3-iodo-4-methylphenoxy)-quinoline-3-carboxylate, a 4-aryloxy-quinoline 3-ester formed during attempted preparation of 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-oxo-quinoline-3-carboxylate (4-oxo-quinoline 3-ester). We propose that the 4-aryloxy-quinoline 3-ester derives from 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-hydroxy-quinoline-3-carboxylate (4-hydroxy-quinoline 3-ester), the enol form of 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-oxo-quinoline-3-carboxylate. Formation of the 4-aryloxy-quinoline 3-ester confirms the impact of quinolone/hydroxyquinoline tautomerism, both on the efficiency of synthetic routes to quinolones and on pharmacologic profiles. Tautomers exhibit different cLogP values and interact differently with the enzyme active site. A structural investigation of 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-oxo-quinoline-3-carboxylate and 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-hydroxy-quinoline-3-carboxylate, using matrix isolation coupled to FTIR spectroscopy and theoretical calculations, revealed that the lowest energy conformers of 6-methyl-7-iodo-4-hydroxy-quinoline-3-carboxylate, lower in energy than their most stable 4-oxo-quinoline tautomer by about 27 kJ mol−1, are solely present in the matrix, while the most stable 4-oxo-quinoline tautomer is solely present in the crystalline phase.
Developing an Agro-Ecological Zoning Model for Tumbleweed (Salsola kali), as Energy Crop in Drylands of Argentina
Authors: Falasca Silvia , Pitta-Alvarez Sandra , Ulberich Ana
Published: February 2017

Salsola kali is considered extremely valuable as an energy crop worldwide because it adapts easily to environments with strong abiotic stresses (hydric, saline and alkaline) and produces large amounts of biomass in drylands. This species is categorized as an important weed in Argentina. The aim of this work was to design an agro-ecological zoning model for tumbleweed in Argentina, employing a Geography Information System. Based on the bioclimatic requirements for the species and the climatic data for Argentina (1981–2010 period), an agro-climatic suitability map was drawn. This map was superimposed on the saline and alkaline soil maps delineated by the Food and Agriculture Organization for dry climates, generating the agro-ecological zoning on a scale of 1 : 500 000. This zoning revealed very suitable and suitable cultivation areas on halomorphic soils. The potential growing areas extend from N of the Salta province (approximately 22° S) to the Santa Cruz province (50° S). The use of tumbleweed on halomorphic soils under semi-arid to arid conditions, for the dual purpose of forage use and source of lignocellulosic material for bioenergy, could improve agricultural productivity in these lands. Furthermore, it could also contribute to their environmental sustainability, since the species can be used to reclaim saline soils over the years. Based on international bibliography, the authors outlined an agro-ecological zoning model. This model may be applied to any part of the world, using the agro-ecological limits presented here.
Cellular Proteomes Drive Tissue-Specific Regulation of the Heat Shock Response
Authors: Ma Jian , Grant Christopher E , Plagens Rosemary N , Barrett Lindsey N , Guisbert Karen S Kim , Guisbert Eric
Published: February 2017

The heat shock response (HSR) is a cellular stress response that senses protein misfolding and restores protein folding homeostasis, or proteostasis. We previously identified an HSR regulatory network in Caenorhabditis elegans consisting of highly conserved genes that have important cellular roles in maintaining proteostasis. Unexpectedly, the effects of these genes on the HSR are distinctly tissue-specific. Here, we explore this apparent discrepancy and find that muscle-specific regulation of the HSR by the TRiC/CCT chaperonin is not driven by an enrichment of TRiC/CCT in muscle, but rather by the levels of one of its most abundant substrates, actin. Knockdown of actin subunits reduces induction of the HSR in muscle upon TRiC/CCT knockdown; conversely, overexpression of an actin subunit sensitizes the intestine so that it induces the HSR upon TRiC/CCT knockdown. Similarly, intestine-specific HSR regulation by the signal recognition particle (SRP), a component of the secretory pathway, is driven by the vitellogenins, some of the most abundant secretory proteins. Together, these data indicate that the specific protein folding requirements from the unique cellular proteomes sensitizes each tissue to disruption of distinct subsets of the proteostasis network. These findings are relevant for tissue-specific, HSR-associated human diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we characterize organismal phenotypes of actin overexpression including a shortened lifespan, supporting a recent hypothesis that maintenance of the actin cytoskeleton is an important factor for longevity.
Allelic Dropout During Polymerase Chain Reaction due to G-Quadruplex Structures and DNA Methylation Is Widespread at Imprinted Human Loci
Authors: Stevens Aaron J , Taylor Millie G , Pearce Frederick Grant , Kennedy Martin A
Published: February 2017

Loss of one allele during polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA, known as allelic dropout, can be caused by a variety of mechanisms. Allelic dropout during PCR may have profound implications for molecular diagnostic and research procedures that depend on PCR and assume biallelic amplification has occurred. Complete allelic dropout due to the combined effects of cytosine methylation and G-quadruplex formation was previously described for a differentially methylated region of the human imprinted gene, MEST. We now demonstrate that this parent-of-origin specific allelic dropout can potentially occur at several other genomic regions that display genomic imprinting and have propensity for G-quadruplex formation, including AIM1, BLCAP, DNMT1, PLAGL1, KCNQ1, and GRB10. These findings demonstrate that systematic allelic dropout during PCR is a general phenomenon for regions of the genome where differential allelic methylation and G-quadruplex motifs coincide, and suggest that great care must be taken to ensure biallelic amplification is occurring in such situations.
Challenges and Future Directions in the Detection and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Quinn Graham E.
Published: February 2017

Multicenter studies addressing screening and intervention for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) inform the management guidelines jointly recommended by American pediatric and ophthalmology academies. Current research focuses on improvements in the identification of ROP and in the treatment of high-risk disease. The development of digital image technology may address various challenges in the diagnosis of ROP, including availability of pediatric ophthalmologic expertise, interobserver variation in diagnosis, and inherent limitations in visual diagnosis. Improved clinical prediction models based on nonophthalmologic data may complement examination-based ROP diagnosis. Alternatives to retinal ablation therapy are being studied to decrease the associated morbidities of such therapy.
Evolución en caracterización molecular en procesos de investigación biológica
Authors: Aristizabal Fabio Ancizar
Published: February 2017

En la actualidad gran cantidad de los proyectos que se plantean incluyen propuestas de caracterización molecular de algún modelo biológico, pero para algunos investigadores tal planteamiento no conlleva innovación, quizás tales interpretaciones se fundamentan en interpretaciones reduccionistas sobre a qué corresponde y cuáles pueden ser los alcances de la caracterización molecular para cualquier modelo biológico, en el contexto no solo de la Biología actual o de las aplicaciones derivadas o Biotecnologías.
Modelagem matemática nos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental: uma proposta para o 5º ano
Authors: Giongo Ieda Maria , Kuhn Magáli Schuster
Published: February 2017

Este artigo relata algumas ações de uma pesquisa intervenção que teve como foco a Modelagem Matemática nos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental. A questão de pesquisa - Quais as possibilidades e limitações de uma prática pedagógica investigativa efetivada em uma turma de 5º ano do Ensino Fundamental tendo como aportes teóricos estudos do campo da Modelagem Matemática? – delineou os objetivos que se constituem em avaliar as contribuições da prática pedagógica na reflexão crítica do aluno frente a questões sociais; promover nos  discentes a capacidade de fazer uso de conhecimentos vinculados à disciplina de Matemática em outras áreas do conhecimento e em situações cotidianas, bem como contribuir para a disseminação de conhecimentos relativos à Modelagem Matemática nos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental. O referencial teórico está alicerçado em conceitos e contribuições de Biembengut e Hein (2005), Burak e Aragão (2012), Barbosa (2001, 2004), Silva e Barbosa (2011) e Silva, Barbosa e Oliveira (2013). Os conteúdos matemáticos abordados emergiram de temas de interesse dos estudantes, evidenciados por meio de diálogos efetivados no início da referida prática, que ocorreu nos meses de março, abril e maio de 2015, em uma escola pública da Região do Vale do Taquari, RS. Os resultados provenientes da pesquisa apontam olhares para a escrita dos alunos; uso de diferentes formas de pensar matematicamente e crescimento da turma frente às questões sociais discutidas ao longo dos encontros.
Atividades argumentativas em livros didáticos de física do PNLD 2015: o incentivo ainda é escasso
Authors: Souza André Henrique Silva , Vieira Rodrigo Drumond , Melo Viviane Florentino
Published: February 2017

Pesquisas em educação em ciências apontam que a argumentação é uma prática necessária para os processos ativos de aprendizagem dos estudantes. Os documentos oficiais têm sinalizado para a necessidade de incorporar práticas que dão suporte a processos argumentativos em sala de aula. Considerando que o livro didático tem sido muitas vezes utilizado pelos professores no ambiente escolar como um condutor do currículo, consideramos que ele pode (e deve) apresentar maneiras de criar suporte para  processos argumentativos em sala de aula. Desta forma, neste trabalho analisamos se atividades de argumentação são estimuladas ou evocadas por atividades que o livro didático propõe. Analisamos sete das quatorze coleções aprovadas pelo PNLD (2015) para o caso do livro didático de Física para o Ensino Médio. Nossos critérios de análise se baseiam em como a estrutura da atividade é apresentada (bem ou mal estruturada  e se os marcadores “justificativas recíprocas” e “contraposição de ideias” estão sendo evocados ou utilizados. Os resultados indicam que os livros didáticos apresentam em parte, suporte para o processo argumentativo, mas esse suporte ainda é muito incipiente.
APRENDENDO A CAMINHAR
Authors: LIMA Glauciane Pinheiro
Published: February 2017

O presente texto trata do memorial sobre a trajetória escolar de Glauciane Pinheiro Lima, ex-integrante do Programa Conexões de Saberes. Tem como objetivo apresentar os passos percorridos desde o início da educação básica até a entrada à UFPA e quais os principais entraves de estudantes das comunidades populares adentrarem o ensino superior público. A memória foi usada como principal referência para construção do material. Em seus resultados, apresenta os esforços individual e coletivo para que de fato a educação seja uma questão de direito e não de privilégio de poucos.
MEMORIAL SOBRE A TRAJETÓRIA ESCOLAR BÁSICA DE SHIRLENE DO SOCORRO COELHO SANTOS
Authors: SANTOS Shirlene do Socorro Coelho
Published: February 2017

O presente texto trata do memorial sobre a trajetória escolar de Shirlene do Socorro Coelho Santos, ex-integrante do Programa Conexões de Saberes. Tem como objetivo apresentar os passos percorridos desde o início da educação básica até a entrada à UFPA e quais os principais entraves de estudantes das comunidades populares adentrarem o ensino superior público. A memória foi usada como principal referência para construção do material. Em seus resultados, apresenta os esforços individual e coletivo para que de fato a educação seja uma questão de direito e não de privilégio de poucos.
The Impact of the Thai Flood of 2011 on the Rural Poor Population Living on the Flood Plain
Authors: Tahira Yukiko ,   Regional Network Office for Urban Safety, Asian Institute of Technology P. O. Box 4, Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand, Kawasaki Akiyuki ,   Department of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
Published: February 2017

Poor and non-poor groups from two flood-prone villages in central Thailand were compared following the flood of 2011. The results showed that the damage/income ratio was higher among persons in the poor group living in old, high-pillared houses near the river. Although this group was not as well prepared and experienced less damage than the non-poor group, they had fewer resources for recovery. The study examined household history, networks, and socio-economic status, as well as the local history. The poor group’s socio-economic characteristics may limit their capacity to resettle, as they have lived in the flood-prone area for generations. Proposals to address this included improving dykes and early warning systems as well as offering compensation for lost earnings.