bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resuscitation with polymeric plasma substitutes is permissive for systemic inflammatory response syndrome and sepsis in multiply injured patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sprengel Kai , Simmen Hanspeter , Werner Clément M. L. , Sulser Simon , Plecko Michael , Keller Catharina , Mica Ladislav
Published: October 2016

Objective

Multiple trauma is often accompanied by systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of polymeric plasma substitutes on the development of SIRS or sepsis.

Methods

We included 2969 patients aged ≥16 years with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) >16 in this study. The sample was subdivided into three groups: patients who did not receive colloids and those who received <5L colloids and >5L colloids within the first 48 h. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS®for Windows version 22.0; analysis of variance was used for continuous normally distributed data and Kruskal–Wallis test for categorical data. The predictive quality of colloid treatment was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Independent predictively was analyzed by binary logistic regression. Data were considered significant ifP < 0.05. Data are presented as the mean ± standard deviation.

Results

The SIRS score increased with the amount of colloid used (1.9 ± 1.4 vs. 2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 3.2 ± 0.9;P < 0.001). However, the predictive quality was low, with an area under the ROC of 0.693 for SIRS and 0.669 for sepsis (P < 0.001). Binary logistic regression revealed colloids as an independent factor for the development of SIRS and sepsis (odds ratios: SIRS 3.325 and sepsis 8.984;P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Besides other factors, colloids have a significant permissive effect and are independent predictors for the development of SIRS and sepsis in multiply injured patients.

Trial registration ‘Retrospektive Analysen in der Chirurgischen Intensivmedizin’No. St. V. 01-2008
Rab27a regulates GM-CSF-dependent priming of neutrophil exocytosis
Authors: Ramadass Mahalakshmi , Johnson Jennifer Linda , Catz Sergio D
Published: October 2016

Neutrophil secretory proteins are mediators of systemic inflammation in infection, trauma, and cancer. In response to specific inflammatory mediators, neutrophil granules are mobilized and cargo proteins released to modulate the microenvironment of inflammatory sites and tumors. In particular, GM-CSF, a cytokine secreted by several immune, nonimmune, and tumor cells, regulates neutrophil priming and exocytosis. Whereas a comprehensive understanding of this process is necessary to design appropriate anti-inflammatory therapies, the molecular effectors regulating GM-CSF-dependent priming of neutrophil exocytosis are currently unknown. With the use of neutrophils deficient in the small GTPase Rab27a or its effector Munc13-4, we show that although both of these secretory factors control matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) exocytosis in response to GM-CSF, their involvement in exocytosis after GM-CSF priming is very different. Whereas GM-CSF priming-induced exocytosis is abolished in the absence of Rab27a for all secondary stimuli tested, including TLR7, TLR9, and formyl peptide receptor 1 (Fpr1) ligands, cells lacking Munc13-4 showed a significant exocytic response to GM-CSF priming. The mobilization of CD11b was independent of both Rab27a and Munc13-4 in GM-CSF-primed cells unless the cells were stimulated with nucleic acid-sensing TLR ligand, thus highlighting a role for both Rab27a and Munc13-4 in endocytic TLR maturation. Finally, the observation that the absence of Rab27a expression impairs the exocytosis of MMP-9 and MPO under both primed and unprimed conditions suggests that Rab27a is a possible target for intervention in inflammatory processes in which GM-CSF-dependent neutrophil priming is involved.
Frontline Science: D1 dopaminergic receptor signaling activates the AMPK-bioenergetic pathway in macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells and reduces endotoxin-induced ALI
Authors: Bone Nathaniel B , Liu Zhongyu , Pittet Jean-Francois , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W
Published: October 2016

Catecholamines, including β-adrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmitters, have an essential role in regulating the “fight or flight” reflex and also affects immune cell proinflammatory action. However, little is known about whether catecholamines prevent dysfunction of metabolic pathways associated with inflammatory organ injury, including development of acute lung injury (ALI). We hypothesize that selected catecholamines may reduce metabolic alterations in LPS-stimulated macrophages and in the lungs of mice subjected to endotoxin-induced ALI, a situation characterized by diminished activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). We found that activation of the dopamine 1 receptor (D1R) with fenoldopam, but not stimulation of adrenergic receptors with norepinephrine, resulted in a robust activation of AMPK in peritoneal macrophages, human monocytes, or alveolar epithelial cells (AECs). Such AMPK activation was mediated by a phospholipase C (PLC)–dependent mechanism. Unlike norepinephrine, D1R activation also prevented Thr172–AMPK dephosphorylation and kinase inactivation in LPS-treated macrophages. Furthermore, we show that a culture of AECs with either fenoldopam or the AMPK activator metformin effectively diminished IL-1β–induced release of adverse paracrine signaling, which promotes the macrophage proinflammatory response. In vivo, fenoldopam reduced the severity of LPS-induced ALI, including development of pulmonary edema, lung permeability, and production of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, MIP-2, or KC and HMGB1. Fenoldopam also prevented AMPK dephosphorylation in the lungs of LPS-treated mice and prevented loss of mitochondrial complexes NDUFB8 (complex I) and ATP synthase (complex V). Collectively, these results suggest that dopamine is coupled to AMPK activation, which provides a substantial anti-inflammatory and bioenergetic advantage and reduces the severity of endotoxin-induced ALI.
Identifying and Prioritizing Gaps in Neuroendocrine Tumor Research: A Modified Delphi Process With Patients and Health Care Providers to Set the Research Action Plan for the Newly Formed Commonwealth Neuroendocrine Tumor Collaboration
Authors: Segelov Eva , Chan David , Lawrence Ben , Pavlakis Nick , Kennecke Hagen F. , Jackson Christopher , Law Calvin , Singh Simron
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a diverse group of malignancies that pose challenges common to all rare tumors. The Commonwealth Neuroendocrine Tumor Collaboration (CommNETS) was established in 2015 to enhance outcomes for patients with NETs in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. A modified Delphi process was undertaken involving patients, clinicians, and researchers to identify gaps in NETs research to produce a comprehensive and defensible research action plan.

Methods

A three-round modified Delphi process was undertaken with larger representation than usual for medical consensus processes. Patient/advocate and health care provider/researcher expert panels undertook Round 1, which canvassed 17 research priorities and 42 potential topics; in Round 2, these priorities were ranked. Round 3 comprised a face-to-face meeting to generate final consensus rankings and formulate the research action plan.

Results

The Delphi groups consisted of 203 participants in Round 1 (64% health care providers/researchers, 36% patient/advocates; 52% Canadian, 32% Australian, and 17% New Zealander), of whom 132 participated in Round 2. The top eight priorities were biomarker development; peptide receptor radionuclide therapy optimization; trials of new agents in advanced NETs; functional imaging; sequencing therapies for metastatic NETs, including development of validated surrogate end points for studies; pathologic classification; early diagnosis; interventional therapeutics; and curative surgery. Two major areas were ranked significantly higher by patients/advocates: early diagnosis and curative surgery. Six CommNETS working parties were established.

Conclusion

This modified Delphi process resulted in a well-founded set of research priorities for the newly formed CommNETS collaboration by involving a large, diverse group of stakeholders. This approach to setting a research agenda for a new collaborative group should be adopted to ensure that research plans reflect unmet needs and priorities in the field.
Molecular phylogenetics and molecular clock dating of Sapindales based on plastid rbcL, atpB and trnL-trnF DNA sequences
Authors: Muellner-Riehl Alexandra N. , Weeks Andrea , Clayton Joshua W. , Buerki Sven , Nauheimer Lars , Chiang Yu-Chung , Cody Sarah , Pell Susan K.
Published: October 2016

This study focuses on reconstructing the time‐calibrated phylogeny of the nine families comprising the order Sapindales, representing a diverse and economically important group of eudicots including citrus, mahogany, tree‐of‐heaven, cashew, mango, pistachio, frankincense, myrrh, lychee, rambutan, maple, and buckeye. We sampled three molecular markers, plastid genes rbcL and atpB, and the trnL‐trnLF spacer region, and covered one‐third of the generic diversity of Sapindales. All three markers produced congruent phylogenies using maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods for a set of taxa that included outgroups, i.e., members of the closely related orders Brassicales and Malvales, and the more distantly related Crossosomatales, Ranunculales, and Ceratophyllales. All results confirmed the current delimitation of the families within Sapindales, and the monophyly of the order. Concerning inter‐familial relationships, Biebersteiniaceae and Nitrariaceae formed a basal grade (or sister clade) to the rest of Sapindales with moderate support. The sister relationship of Kirkiaceae to Anacardiaceae and Burseraceae was strongly supported. The clade combining Anacardiaceae and Burseraceae as well as the clade combining Meliaceae, Simaroubaceae, and Rutaceae each received strong support. The sister relationship between Meliaceae and Simaroubaceae was moderately supported. The position of Sapindaceae could not be resolved with confidence. The Sapindales separated from their sister clade, comprising Brassicales and Malvales, in the Early Cretaceous at ca. 112 Ma, and diversified into the nine families from ca. 105 Ma until ca. 87 Ma during Early to Late Cretaceous times. Biebersteiniaceae and Nitrariaceae have the longest stem lineages observed in Sapindales, possibly indicating that extinction may have had a greater role in shaping their extant diversity than elsewhere within the order. Divergence within the larger families (Anacardiaceae, Burseraceae, Meliaceae, Rutaceae, Sapindaceae, Simaroubaceae) started during the Late Cretaceous, extending into the Paleogene and Neogene.
One African baobab species or two? Synonymy of Adansonia kilima and A. digitata
Authors: Cron Glynis V. , Karimi Nisa , Glennon Kelsey L. , Udeh Chukwudi A. , Witkowski Ed T.F. , Venter Sarah M. , Assogbadjo Achille E. , Baum David A.
Published: October 2016

We assessed the validity of a recently described baobab species Adansonia kilima that was suggested to be a diploid occurring in both eastern and southern Africa at high elevations within the range of the well‐known tetraploid species A. digitata. We used a combination of phylogenetic analyses and statistical comparisons of various traits (e.g., flowers, stomata, pollen, chromosome counts) to test for the presence of two continental African baobab species. Ordination of the floral features of 133 herbarium specimens from across the natural range of A. digitata, including the putative type of A. kilima and other Tanzanian accessions as previously assigned A. kilima, revealed no distinct clusters of specimens. Likewise, stomatal size and density varied greatly across the specimens examined, with no clear bimodal pattern and no obvious association with altitude. The type specimen of A. kilima was found to have a chromosome number of 2n ≈ 166, showing it to be a tetraploid, like A. digitata. Phylogenetic analysis of the ITS region showed little resolution within the African baobab clade and a lack of distinction between the A. kilima type and A. digitata regional accessions. Among the 13 haplotypes detected, no distinct haplotype representing A. kilima was identified. Based on the data at hand we conclude that A. kilima is neither cytologically nor morphologically distinct and is here reduced to synonymy with A. digitata.
Modern Machine Tools: Issues and Challenges of Quality Assurance
Authors: Баурина  , Baurina Svetlana
Published: October 2016

This article is devoted to the study of quality problems in the machine tool industry. Indicators of quality machinery and equipment are specified. The article discusses in detail the problems of functioning of quality management systems in the Russian machine-tool enterprises.
US Defense Contractor Raytheon and Its Features
Authors: Савченко  , Savchenko Evgeniy
Published: October 2016

The article considers the key features of US defense contractor Raytheon and

business trends and prospects of business development in modern conditions,

which are characterized by crisis trends in US military budget. The attention is

also paid to the fact that the company has managed to show growth of financials

in spite of the fact of declining orders from US federal government.
The Role of Communication of Performance Schemes: Evidence from a Field Experiment
Authors: Englmaier Florian , Roider Andreas , Sunde Uwe
Published: October 2016

In corporate practice, incentive schemes are often complicated even for simple tasks. Hence, the way they are communicated might matter. In a natural field experiment, we study a minimally invasive change in the communication of a well-established incentive scheme—a reminder regarding the piece rate at the beginning of the shift. The experiment was conducted in a large firm where experienced managers work in a team production setting and where incentives for both quantity and quality of output are provided. While the treatment conveyed no additional material information and left the incentive system unchanged, it had significant positive effects on quantity and on managers’ compensation. These effects are economically sizable and robust to alternative empirical specifications. We consider various potential mechanisms, but our preferred explanation is that the treatment raised the salience of incentives.

This paper was accepted by John List, behavioral economics.
Comment on “Strategic Information Management Under Leakage in a Supply Chain”
Authors: Tian Lin , Jiang Baojun
Published: October 2016

Anand and Goyal [Anand KS, Goyal M (2009) Strategic information management under leakage in a supply chain. Management Sci. 55(3):438–452] propose a horizontal differentiation model to study information leakage and demand signaling in a supply chain. The authors present a composite equilibrium consisting of separating and pooling outcomes in different parameter regions and claim that it satisfies the intuitive criterion. We show that their analysis for the pooling equilibrium has errors and also that all pooling outcomes are actually eliminated by the intuitive criterion. The positive note is that if the undefeated equilibrium or the lexicographically maximum sequential equilibrium refinement is adopted, a similar composite equilibrium will be achieved, which will lead to qualitatively the same results as in the original paper.

This paper was accepted by Chris Forman, information systems.
Decomposable Markov Decision Processes: A Fluid Optimization Approach
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Mišić Velibor V.
Published: October 2016

Decomposable Markov decision processes (MDPs) are problems where the stochastic system can be decomposed into multiple individual components. Although such MDPs arise naturally in many practical applications, they are often difficult to solve exactly due to the enormous size of the state space of the complete system, which grows exponentially with the number of components. In this paper, we propose an approximate solution approach to decomposable MDPs that is based on re-solving a fluid linear optimization formulation of the problem at each decision epoch. This formulation tractably approximates the problem by modeling transition behavior at the level of the individual components rather than the complete system. We prove that our fluid formulation provides a tighter bound on the optimal value function than three state-of-the-art formulations: the approximate linear optimization formulation, the classical Lagrangian relaxation formulation, and a novel, alternate Lagrangian relaxation that is based on relaxing an action consistency constraint. We provide a numerical demonstration of the effectiveness of the approach in the area of multiarmed bandit problems, where we show that our approach provides near optimal performance and outperforms state-of-the-art algorithms.
Reviewing emollients
Authors: Croney Stacey
Published: October 2016

This article provides an outline of pathophysiology of the skin and discusses the function of emollients and how they work on dry skin. With many different types of emollients on the market, nurse prescribers can become overwhelmed with choice, and budgetary pressures may cause patients to lose preference of choice. It is important nurses aim to provide good education and empower patients to use products that suit both their skin and their lifestyle.
Gender differences in relationship behaviours and attitudes among married individuals
Authors: Yucel Deniz
Published: October 2016

This study tested for gender differences in several rich measures of relationship behaviours and attitudes among 500 married individuals in Northern Cyprus. Significantly more of the men reported verbal aggression by their spouses than the women, and the actual division of household labour is highly gendered. Men do significantly more work in male-dominated tasks such as paying bills or performing repairs or maintenance around the home, while women do significantly more work in female-dominated tasks such as planning and preparing meals, cleaning up after meals, household cleaning and laundry. There are also significant gender differences in gender ideology, attitudes toward extramarital affairs and satisfaction with the division of labour. Specifically, the results suggest that women are less satisfied with the division of household labour than men. In addition, women report being more egalitarian about gender roles than men, whereas men have more favourable attitudes toward extramarital affairs than women.
Have You Yet Found Home?
Authors: Irmer Thomas
Published: October 2016

Matthias Lilienthal’s directorship at the Kammerspiele began with the construction of a series of sleeping units scattered throughout Munich whose costs were not to exceed 250 euros. The apartments drew attention to the everday topic of conversation about the too expensive and at the same time vacant apartments in the city, whereby the project entered the spaces of social life. Such installations become a theatre project when temporary dwellers move in and are then seen as part of the performance by spectators passing by.
The Age of Forensics: Memory, Emancipatory Politics or Visual Strategy? Interview with Eyal Weizman and Anselm Franke
Authors: Kirn Gal , Tajeri Niloufar
Published: October 2016

Eyal Weizman and Anselm Franke speak in detail about their collaborative effort and exhibition Forensis at HKW, Berlin. The interview by Nilourfar Tajeri and Gal Kirn tackled three major topics that emerged in the conferences during the exhibition: first, they spoke about the aesthetical implications of forensic realism and about the genesis of their collaborative work; secondly, they traced the relationship of forensics to emancipatory politics; and thirdly, they observed some theoretical and political underpinnings of the major shift from the age of the witness to the age of forensics, this connected to potential consequences for a different politics and culture of forensic memory.
Manifesto of Post-Futurism – Literally
Authors: Arhar Nika , Brezavšček Pia , Čičigoj Katja , Rakef Saška , Založnik Jasmina
Published: October 2016

If the future is already here, what comes after? Tortoises, singular rhythms, disarming femininity, knowing the world, sages, the body, bearded man, sleep, ecstasy, sharing of imaginations, sweet energy... and more.
AS ATIVIDADES DE CAPACITAÇÃO DA UNIMED GRANDE FLORIANÓPOLIS ESTÃO NO CAMINHO CERTO?
Authors: Bruchado Cristiane Francisca da Silva , Coelho Kellen Da Silva , Kanitz Amarildo Felipe
Published: October 2016

Este caso visa a refletir sobre a concepção das atividades de capacitação adotadas na UNIMED Grande Florianópolis entre 2008 e 2010. Há sete anos, a organização se deparou com a necessidade de expandir suas unidades e admitir mais empregados. Os gestores da cooperativa contrataram uma consultoria externa para rever processos e atividades, com o objetivo de reavaliar a estrutura organizacional existente. O Departamento de Gestão de Pessoas passou a focar em estratégia organizacional, fortalecendo princípios e práticas de gestão de pessoas e direcionando esforços para transmitir aos empregados os objetivos esperados. A reestruturação trouxe consigo a subdivisão das atividades e o referido departamento passou a contar com uma Divisão de Gestão de Pessoas, uma Equipe de Administração de Pessoal e uma Equipe de Assistentes de Diretoria. Decidiu-se, então, incrementar as atividades de capacitação dos empregados por meio de três programas: o Programa Mentor - capacitação inicial e técnica do novo colaborador; o Professor UNIMED - capacitação técnica; e o Programa de Desenvolvimento Humano Saber Viver - capacitação voltada às competências comportamentais. Os resultados têm sido positivos, porém, vale a pena refletir sobre a concepção dessas atividades, a fim de saber se a organização abrangerá a diversidade de perfis de candidatos requerida pelo cenário social e político do país, bem como se competências são desenvolvidas.
FUTEBOL-EMPRESA: ANÁLISE DA LEI DE RESPONSABILIDADE FISCAL DO FUTEBOL BRASILEIRO
Authors: Do Monte Silva Lucas , Do Monte Silva Leonardo
Published: October 2016

O presente trabalho visa a expor as mudanças trazidas pela Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal do Esporte - LRFE e suas principais consequências no futebol brasileiro. Objetiva-se, por meio da óptica do futebol-empresa, observar se e, caso positivo, como e de que maneira a referida lei poderá produzir efeitos no sentido da modernização do futebol e da profissionalização de sua gestão, não apenas no sentido de promover governança, mas também em sua gestão fiscal. Por meio do método hipotético-dedutivo e da metodologia bibliografia e documental, tem-se como objetivos específicos analisar três pontos principais da LRFE: a) o Programa de Modernização da Gestão e de Responsabilidade Fiscal do Futebol Brasileiro - Profut, verificando as condições necessárias para que as entidades desportivas dele façam parte, bem como dos pressupostos para o refinanciamento de dívidas perante a União; c) a influência que a ideia de fair-play financeiro possui nessa lei; e c) analisar os incentivos à governança desportiva, mais especificamente, por meio da responsabilização solidária e ilimitada dos dirigentes por determinadas situações dispostas em lei, que configuram gestão temerária, como no caso de desvio de finalidade e a criação de risco excessivo e irresponsável para o patrimônio do clube. Observa que a União, no caso vertente, funciona como verdadeira credora, uma vez que permite o parcelamento das dívidas, mas, como contraprestação, exige diversas medidas fundamentais para a modernização do esporte no Brasil.
AS ATRIBUIÇÕES DE POLÍCIA JUDICIÁRIA NO BOJO DAS INVESTIGAÇÕES DE HOMICÍDIOS DOLOSOS PRATICADOS POR POLICIAIS MILITARES CONTRA CIVIS
Authors: Vittig Ghiraldelli Felipe , Da Silva Leite Ruano Fernando
Published: October 2016

O presente trabalho tem por escopo analisar o conflito de atribuições de polícia judiciária nas investigações dos crimes de homicídios dolosos praticados por policiais militares contra vítimas civis. Diante da atecnia das sucessivas alterações legais e da atual diversidade de tratamento da questão em cada Estado membro, se faz necessária uma abordagem acurada, condizente com a Constituição Federal e com as convenções internacionais de direitos humanos.
RESPONSABILIDADE CIVIL: UMA ANÁLISE ACERCA DAS REDES SOCIAIS
Authors: Lamour Kist Eduardo , Bagatini Júlia
Published: October 2016

O objetivo do presente artigo é realizar um estudo sobre a responsabilidade civil nas redes sociais, com a finalidade de ponderar sobre as formas inadequadas de utilização dos atuais meios de comunicação virtual, suas consequências e como o presente instituto pode atuar na reparação dos danos causados pelos precursores da informação e terceiros. Assim, é certa e possível tal reparação pelos usuários considerados como terceiros – isto é, que não são considerados precursores da informação, mas realizam compartilhamentos, comentários ou curtidas referentes ao conteúdo inicial – sendo que também devem ser responsabilizados civilmente pelos atos danosos que cometem dentro desses meios de comunicação, conforme entendimento doutrinário e jurisprudencial. O método de abordagem é o dedutivo, partindo de uma premissa genérica e outra específica, chegando ao resultado necessário, enquanto os métodos de procedimento seriam o histórico, perfazendo a evolução histórica da temática, e o analítico, representando as análises realizadas no decorrer do trabalho.
A ARGUMENTAÇÃO JURÍDICA COMO INSTRUMENTO DE ARTICULAÇÃO DAS RAZÕES DE JUSTIFICAÇÃO DA DECISÃO JUDICIAL
Authors: Araújo Granado Emerson Rodrigo , Zanon Junior Orlando Luiz , Padilha dos Santos Rafael
Published: October 2016

O presente artigo científico se propõe, de modo coeso, a analisar a teoria da argumentação jurídica em seu processo evolutivo, desde a construção do pensamento crítico de Theodor Viehweg, da retomada da retórica aristotélica em Perelman, a construção das teorias argumentativas-discursivas, pautadas na teoria do discurso de Habermas. O objeto da presente pesquisa é analisar a contribuição da teoria da argumentação jurídica como instrumento de articulação das razões de justificação da decisão judicial. Para alcançar tal enfoque, a pesquisa será dividida em três momentos. No primeiro se fará um escorço historiográfico da teoria da argumentação jurídica. Na segunda etapa, estudar-se-á o caráter prescritivo da ciência jurídica e a contribuição da argumentação jurídica no seu desenvolvimento. Por fim, no terceiro momento, dedicar-se-á à apreciação da argumentação jurídica como instrumento de articulação das razões de justificação da decisão judicial. Utilizou-se, para o desenvolvimento desta presente pesquisa, o método indutivo, operacionalizados pelas técnicas de conceitos operacionais e da pesquisa bibliográfica.
Theologische Annäherungen an die Rede vom »Ewigen Leben«
Authors: Welker Michael
Published: October 2016

In our days, Western thought has a skeptical attitude towards talk about eternal life. The article first shows that in his famous Theology of Hope Jürgen Moltmann does not only discuss this skeptical position, but identifies a source for a realistic approach to eternal life, namely hope that is inspired by the forces of eternal life and becomes itself a resource of power in ecclesial and political contexts. Secondly the article focuses on the vitality of eternal life and the need for its embodied presence. It addresses the problem that, as a rule, the body is associated with finite corporeal existence; it is not endowed with the soteriological power we associate with eternal life. So what could be a connecting point between finite and perishing bodily existence and saving eternal life? In a third step the article explores the spiritual body and its presence in the existence of the resurrected Christ and his Spirit. We encounter the spiritual body with its saving powers in the hope-igniting presence of Christ not only in word and sacrament, but also in a multitude of received and given diaconal forms of love of one’s neighbor and in prophetic search and care for truth and justice.
Ewigkeit – Wie gehen junge Menschen damit um? Erfahrungen im Religionsunterricht am Gymnasium
Authors: Rehberger Claudia
Published: October 2016

This contribution explores young peoples’ view on eternity and practical experiences with this topic in high school education. First it analyses the importance of eschatological topics in religious high school education. Then it discusses the necessity and the possibilities of exploring eschatological questions together with high school students. Based on teaching experience with the topics of Christian hope, resurrection and eternal life, the essay concludes with some specific ideas for the practice of teaching
A novel device to measure gaseous permeability over a wide range of pressures: characterisation of slip flow for Norway spruce, European beech, and wood-based materials
Authors: Ai Wei , Duval Hervé , Pierre Floran , Perré Patrick
Published: October 2016

A novel device was conceived and built to measure the apparent gaseous permeability of porous media over a large range of permeability values (10−10–10−18m2) and mean pressures (from 1 bar down to ca. 40 mbar). An extensive series of experimental data are presented and analysed for various porous media: (1) Norway spruce (Picea abies) and European beech (Fagus silvatica) in the three anatomical directions, and, for comparison, (2) three simpler porous media, i.e. an autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC, light concrete) and two wood-based panels. For all porous media, the intrinsic permeability, the gas slippage factor, and the effective pore size were determined from the variations of the apparent permeability as a function of mean pressure. These results are in good agreement with those of previous studies for spruce and bring new insights for beech and wood-based materials, in general. For all products, the effective pore sizes identified with the new instrument are closely linked to the medium morphology. In particular, it was found that in spite of the huge anisotropic ratios between wood’s longitudinal and tangential directions, the identified pore size is similar and corresponds to anatomical features: openings in margo for spruce and scalariform perforation plates for beech. Besides, the pore size identified for beech in the radial direction suggests that radial permeability is most probably controlled by the openings in ray cells (either pits or intercellular voids).
Space in Coercive Poetry. Augustine’s Psalm Against the Donatists and His Interpretation of the Fear of God In Enarrationes in Psalmos
Authors: Geest Paul J. J. van
Published: October 2016

This contribution consists of two parts. The first part identifies Augustine’s qualities as a mystagogue on the basis of the only poem he wrote that has been handed down: the Psalm against the Donatists. It shows that little is to be gained by studying Augustine as both poeta and mystagogue. Not his poetry itself, but his commentary on poetry as such reveals the transformative power that he ascribes to this genre. For this reason the second part examines Augustine’s Enarrationes in psalmos. In this work, he makes explicit the transformative power that is contained in the 150 Psalms, which are both poetry and prayer. This part asks the question how Augustine articulates or heightens fear when the Psalmist in his dialogue with God ‘compels’ him to do this, as it were, by expressing fear of enemies or of the Last Judgement. He shows that he acknowledges that fear alone can lead to an unbalanced, and even a bad relationship with God. Fear should result in introspection and should be a guarantee against pride. That Augustine furthermore is not content to heighten the fear of God alone, but wants it to coincide with desire, joy, and hope, shows that he wishes to prevent any imbalance in the human who seeks a relationship with God. For Augustine, fear is necessary, but it is ‘only’ an ancilla of hope, joy, love, and desire. But as such, timor is indispensible. Fear causes attentiveness and carefulness: virtues that love presuppose and that also correlate with it. Nevertheless, love does not stand at the service of fear; for Augustine, it is the reverse.
Eucharistic Transformation. Thomas Aquinas’ Adoro Te Devote
Authors: Schoot Henk J. M.
Published: October 2016

Originally the Adoro te devote was not a liturgical hymn but a prayer, probably intended by Thomas Aquinas for personal use when attending mass. Quoting the at present most reliable version of the poem, the author studies Adoro te devote from the angle of transformation: poetic, Eucharistic and mystic or eschatological transformation. Structure and form are analysed, and a number of themes discussed: two alternative interpretations of adoration, several concepts of truth intended in the poem, the good thief and doubting Thomas as symbols of moral and spiritual imperfection, and (present and future) living in connection, in union with God.
Research on flux decline in nanofiltration of lactic acid solutions with ZRIV/PAA membranes application
Authors: Połom Ewa
Published: October 2016

The efficiency of lactic acid solutions nanofiltration with dynamically formed zirconium (IV) hydrous oxide polyacrylate (ZrIV/PAA) membranes application were considered in this paper. The results of investigations on flux decline in nanofiltration of lactic acid solutions under conditions resulting in low and high lactic acid rejection are reported. In the long term experimental research on pressure driven membrane processes the main reason of permeate flux reduction is an accumulation of concentration polarization and fouling effects. The experimental permeate flux versus time curves were analyzed in the frame of resistance-in-series model with the aim to develop the characteristic fouling and concentration polarization resistances. The analysis of experimental data and results of calculations showed that both: concentration polarization and fouling phenomena in investigated system depend on hydrodynamic conditions and properties of filtered solutions and (ZrIV/PAA) membrane.
Is Russia successful in attracting foreign direct investment? Evidence based on gravity model estimation
Authors: Mariev Oleg , Drapkin Igor , Chukavina Kristina
Published: October 2016

The aim of this paper is twofold. First, it is to answer the question of whether Russia is successful in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). Second, it is to identify partner countries that “overinvest” and “underinvest” in the Russian economy. We do this by calculating potential FDI inflows to Russia and comparing them with actual values. This research is associated with the empirical estimation of factors explaining FDI flows between countries. The methodological foundation used for the research is the gravity model of foreign direct investment. In discussing the pros and cons of different econometric methods of the estimation gravity equation, we conclude that the Poisson pseudo maximum likelihood method with instrumental variables (IV PPML) is one of the best options in our case. Using a database covering about 70% of FDI flows for the period of 2001-2011, we discover the following factors that explain the variance of bilateral FDI flows in the world economy: GDP value of investing country, GDP value of recipient country, distance between countries, remoteness of investor country, remoteness of recipient country, level of institutions development in host country, wage level in host country, membership of two countries in a regional economic union, common official language, common border and colonial relationships between countries in the past. The potential values of FDI inflows are calculated using coefficients of regressors from the econometric model. We discover that the Russian economy performs very well in attracting FDI: the actual FDI inflows exceed potential values by 1.72 times. Large developed countries (France, Germany, UK, Italy) overinvest in the Russian economy, while smaller and less developed countries (Czech Republic, Belarus, Denmark, Ukraine) underinvest in Russia. Countries of Southeast Asia (China, South Korea, Japan) also underinvest in the Russian economy.
Clubroot – An Emerging Disease Faced by Czech Oilseed Rape Growers
Authors: Řičařová V. , Kazda J. , Baranyk P. , Ryšánek P.
Published: October 2016

Clubroot is caused by the pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae Woronin and has become a serious problem in oilseed rape production in the Czech Republic. The disease was previously widespread in commercial vegetable production and in hobby gardens. Whereas previously restricted only to the NE, since 2010 oilseed rape clubroot has been spreading across the whole country. A five-year monitoring of clubroot occurrence based on disease symptoms detection on oilseed rape fields was accomplished by the Union of Oilseed Growers and Processors. The presence of P. brassicae and clubroot symptoms was reported in all regions of the Czech Republic, except the Ústecký region, and in 31 out of 76 districts. At present, at least 130 fields are known to be infested by the pathogen, but this number is very likely underestimated. Some soil samples were also tested using the conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method to evaluate the soil usability. All 14 suspected samples tested positive.
Genetic Divergence of Cattle Populations Based on Genomic Information
Authors: Kasarda R. , Moravčíková N. , Mészáros G. , Trakovická A. , Kadlečík O.
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze the extent of linkage disequilibrium (LD) and estimate the effective population size in three divergent cattle breeds. In total 19 Pinzgau, 30 Brown Swiss, and 30 Nelore bulls were genotyped using Illumina BovineSNP50 v2 BeadChip. The level of LD was assessed only for syntenic adjacent autosomal loci. The extent of LD significantly varied across the analyzed groups and autosomes. The highest average value of r2, which was used as measure of LD extent, was found in Brown Swiss (0.27). The r2 values were averaged into 50 kb distance bins to estimate their relationship to SNP physical positions. With the increasing genetic distance a decay of LD was found by each of the analyzed breeds. Moreover, the decrease in relation to the distance was observed also in effective population size (Ne) estimation. Thus, the long distances in genome produced a signal of the recent history of population. The observed values of recent Ne across evaluated cattle breeds were above the minimum number required to maintain genetic diversity and indicated a sufficient animal basis for the future management of breeding programs for each of the populations.
Statistical Results of Activities Categorization in Czech Agricultural Companies
Authors: Svobodová J. , Urbancová H.
Published: October 2016

In today’s competitive environment, to identify and correctly adjust the individual components of the business model is an important strategic device for every entrepreneur. This paper (preliminary study) deals with different types of business models applied to the sector of small and medium-size farms in the Czech Republic. The main objective was to identify and categorize activities undertaken by Czech farmers into homogeneous clusters and offer recommendations on possible business model modification. The research was based on data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (hereafter FADN). The principal component analysis and cluster analysis were carried out as part of the assessment, under which farms are categorized into homogeneous groups. The results showed that the farms surveyed can be categorized according to similar economic characteristics, production plans, and implementation processes into three basic clusters. The first business model is elaborated for the classic field production and various kinds of vegetable or livestock production, the second model for the special crop and livestock production, and the third one for the animal production. The use of FADN data and the fact that most Czech agricultural companies are of small- and medium-size should be taken into account as limiting factors of the study.
Effects of Carbon Nanotube-Carbon Fiber Cementitious Conductive Anode for Cathodic Protection of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Zuo J. , Yao W. , Xu J. , Chen Y. , Liu X.
Published: October 2016

Carbon nanotube-carbon fiber/cement-based composites used as auxiliary anode for cathodic protection of reinforced concrete were explored in this paper. Cathodic protection was applied with impressed current and its efficiency was verified by corrosion potential, corrosion current, and AC impedance spectroscopy. Results showed that cement composites containing 0.4 wt. % carbon fiber and 0.5 wt. % carbon nanotubes exhibit the optimum electrical and mechanical properties. Effective protection on steel re-bars can be expected due to a sufficient negative potential shift by the applied electric current. Compared with a carbon fiber cementitious conductive anode system, a decrease of corrosion current of steel re-bars was observed for the carbon nanotube-carbon fiber cementitious conductive anode system. During cathodic protection, both capacitive loop radius of a Nyquist plot in the intermediate frequency region and the charge transfer resistance increased with time. A detailed mechanism analysis of the efficiency of cathodic protection using the carbon nanotube-carbon fiber cementitious conductive anode is also included.
Drug-coated Balloon-only Angioplasty for Native Coronary Disease Instead of Stents
Authors: Wickramarachchi Upul ,   Department of Cardiology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK, Eccleshall Simon ,   Department of Cardiology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
Published: October 2016

Coronary angioplasty has vastly improved both in technique and devices since the first angioplasty in 1977. Currently, stent implantation is used almost ubiquitously, despite being developed originally to treat vessel threatening dissections. Newer concepts including absorbable polymers or fully bioabsorbable scaffolds are constantly being developed. However, we find the concept of no permanent implant whilst still delivering a chemotherapeutic drug to reduce restenosis very attractive given the long term implications of a metallic stent, which include restenosis, late thrombosis and neo-atheroma formation. The use of a drug-coated balloon-only approach to de novo angioplasty will avoid the late thrombotic problems whilst also reducing early restenosis, simplifying the procedure and reducing the dual antiplatelet duration to 1 month. We review the current literature and highlight our practice with regard to use of drug-coated balloons in treatment of de novo coronary artery disease.
Transradial Approach in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Lessons from a High-volume Centre
Authors: Piers Lieuwe H ,   Department of Cardiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Vink Maarten A ,   Department of Cardiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Amoroso Giovanni ,   Department of Cardiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Published: October 2016

The transradial approach (TRA) is the recommended technique for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute coronary syndrome, according to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines. There is a large body of evidence showing reduction in bleeding and mortality when the TRA is used. The TRA is also more convenient for patients, by allowing early mobilisation. Finally, by facilitating patient turnover and fast (re)transfer after the procedure, the TRA enables operators to meet the current recommendations of early invasive therapy in both ST and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction. On the other hand, the TRA is technically more challenging than the transfemoral approach (TFA) and requires longer learning curve, which hinders its uptake by low-volume operators/centres. Nevertheless, in the hands of experienced high-volume operators, such as at Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) Amsterdam, the TRA achieves comparable procedural outcomes and favourable clinical results compared with the TFA, as it is in cases of primary PCI.
Davida Lewisa koncepcja fikcyjnego stanu rzeczy jako opisu świata możliwego a problem statusu norm prawnych
Authors: Jakubiec Marek
Published: October 2016

The character of norms is a relevant issue in the contemporary legal philosophy and in the metaethics. The analysis of Lewis’ sugguestions concerning the fictional statements (sentences “describing” the fiction) prima facie may seem to be useless from the perspective of law. However, the situation is different, due to the fact that it is possible to treat the legal text as the description of possible world. The issue is analyzed in the paper.
Simulation technologies in spinal surgery
Authors: Byvaltsev V. A. , Kalinin A. A. , Belykh E. G. , Stepanov I. A.
Published: October 2016

This review reflects the current state of simulation technologies in neurosurgery and, in particular, in spinal surgery. Currently, there are different types of simulations used in spine surgery including the biological, artificial and virtual models. Simulations help to facilitate an optimal study of the anatomy, understand the spatial relationships between organs and tissues, plan properly the surgical intervention, and gain tactile surgical skills. The implementation of simulation technologies in the educational process provides objective assessment of the initial level of training, improvement of the competence in trained professionals, as well as prevention of surgical errors in various clinical situations.
Effect of graphene nanoplatelets on hydration behaviour of Portland cement by thermal analysis
Authors: Jing Guojian , Ye Zhengmao , Lu Xiaolei , Hou Pengkun
Published: October 2016

Due to their remarkable mechanical properties, graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are widely employed to reinforce matrix components such as cement materials. Recent findings have indicated that GNPs can be used as additives to improve the mechanical properties of cement. However, the enhancement mechanism is still indefinite. In order to investigate the reinforcement mechanism, this work studied the effect of GNPs on the hydration behaviour of Portland cement through an experimental investigation with isothermal calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicate that the addition of GNPs has little effect on the cement hydration process and the degree of hydration. As revealed by scanning electron microscopy and mini-slump tests, the GNPs were mechanically dispersed in the cement matrix. Special attention was paid to the physical functions between GNPs and cement and a possible mechanism is proposed to explain the formation pathway for GNP–cement composites. This research provides deeper understanding regarding the use of GNPs for reinforcing and toughening cement-based composites.