bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pro-Tumor and Anti-Tumor Functions of IL-17 and of TH17 Cells in Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Gulubova M. , Ananiev J. , Ignatova M. , Halacheva K.
Published: November 2016

The current review reveals the seven subclasses of CD4+ T helper cells, i.e. Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, Th22, regulatory T cells and Tfh, the cytokines produced by them and their role in tumor microenvironment. Main attention was paid to IL-17 and Th17 cells. IL-17-producing cells were described, among which were Treg17 cells and Tc17 cells. The transcription factors, engaged in the activation of Th17 cell differentiation were reviewed. It was shown that Th17 cells might possess regulatory functions in tumor microenvironments that directs toward immunosuppression. The reciprocity between Treg and Th17 cells is realized when the production of a large amount of TGF-β in tumors causes Treg cell differentiation, and the addition of IL-6 shifts the differentiation of naïve T cells to Th17 cells. The main pro-tumor role of IL-17 is the promotion of tumor angiogenesis through stimulation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells. The antitumor functions of IL-17 are associated with enhancement of cytotoxic activity of tumor specific CTL cells and with angiogenesis that provide channels through which immune cells might invade tumor and promote antitumor immunity.
Procedural Options for Measuring Muscle Strength
Authors: Mindova S. , Karaganova I. , Stefanova I.
Published: November 2016

The aim of the present study was to provide alternative means of measurement and evaluation of muscle strength in rehabilitation practice and diagnostics. In the last few years many electronic devices for evaluation of muscle strength have developed. Contemporary studies have shown that in addition to the standard manual muscle testing muscle strength can be assessed more objectively and analytically using electronic dynamometers and equipment. The strain gauges are used as a tool of precision in the industry that allows measurement of mechanical loads by dynamometers. By using these tools is possible to obtain continuous digital measurement and recording of muscle strength.
Die Frankfurter Stättigkeit als Element zur Normierung der Bedingungen jüdischer Existenz in den Jahren 1462 bis 1614
Authors: Burger Thorsten
Published: November 2016

The Stättigkeit of Frankfurt as an element of standardization of the conditions of the Jewish community in the years 1462 to 1614: Frankfurt am Main had had one of the oldest, largest and most important Jewish settlements within the Holy Roman Empire. In the imperial city the term Stättigkeit was used from the Middle Ages onwards to denote the right of residence and to describe the special status of the Jews within Frankfurt society. Stättigkeit referred to political, legal, commercial and social aspects concerning Jewish residents in Frankfurt as well as to foreign Jews who stayed in the city temporarily or were passing through. The essay describes the development and content of the regulations in the Stättigkeit from 1462 – when the Jews of Frankfurt were ordered to move into the Ghetto – up until the Fettmilch uprising in 1614. The author shows that the residence code gave the Jews a high degree of freedom to act as well as a stable legal framework. However, the Stättigkeit also imposed restrictions on their daily life, for instance regarding questions of trade.
Prolegomena zur Analyse und Interpretation obrigkeitlicher Judenpolitik im Heiligen Römischen Reich deutscher Nation
Authors: Hausmann Ulrich
Published: November 2016

On 12 November 1671 the Prince-elector Johann Philipp of Schönborn decided to reduce the Jewish population of Mainz to ten households, who henceforth should live together in a segregated and enclosed lane, i. e. a ghetto. Historians have struggled to understand the reason for Schönborn’s »anti-Jewish policy«, since during the Middle Ages, Jews were allowed to live next to their Christian neighbours and to own real estate anywhere across the city. According to Siegmund Salfeld, this measure was an act of pure discrimination and Johann Philipp – well known for his tolerance and therefore called the »German Solomon« – was simply an »enemy of the Jews«. However, such historiographical characterizations do not account for the complicated motives for the
Strategies for Soil Amelioration Using Sulphur in Salt Affected Soils
Authors: Ahmed K. , Qadir G. , Jami A.R. , Saqib A.I. , Nawaz M.Q. , Kamal M.A. , Haq E.
Published: November 2016

Effective use of salt affected soils needs the development of the most efficient and suitable reclamation technology to optimize farm management and better crop yields. Different chemical methods and amendments are used to reclaim the salt affected soils and after reclamation such soils may be used for sustainable agricultural production. Choice of a chemical amendment depends on its availability, cost, handling and time of application. Application of sulfur is very effective technique to suppress the uptake of undesired toxic elements and to improve the quantity and quality of produce in salt affected soils. So, a three-year field experiment was carried out to evaluate the comparative reclamation efficiency of two sulfur sources, i.e elemental sulfur and gypsum to improve the soil conditions by reducing the salinity/sodicity impact and yield characteristics of rice and wheat crop. A saline-sodic field {(ECe = 6.10 dS m−1, pHs = 9.21 and SAR = 41.67 (mmol L−1)1/2, SO4-S = 16.0 (mg kg−1) and soil gypsum requirement (SGR) of 9.10 t ha−1 for 0-15 cm soil depth} was selected. The treatments included were: control, gypsum application @ 100 SGR, S application @ 25, 50, 57, 100 and 125 % of SGR. Statistical analysis of three-year pooled data showed that varying levels of sulfur and gypsum significantly improved soil properties and rice-wheat yield than control, however, gypsum @ 100% of soil GR was at par with S @ 125 and 100% of SGR in term terms of improving yield component of both test crops and reducing soil pHs, ECe and SAR. Efficiency of treatment could be arranged as gypsum @ 100% SGR = S @ 125 % of SGR= S @ 100% of SGR> S @ 75 % of SGR> S @ 50 % of SGR> S @ 25% of SGR>control.
Is Better Minimum than Standard Mouldboard Ploughing Tillage from Viewpoint of the Pore-Size Distribution and Soil Water Retention Characteristic Changes ?
Authors: Šimanský V. , Polláková N. , Jonczak J.
Published: November 2016

At present time exists a lot of soil tillage practices with different effects on soil productivity, therefore the effects of two tillage systems (conventional: CT, and miminum: MT) and two different soil types (Chernozem and Mollic Fluvisol) on soil physical quality indicators and water availability were evaluated in an on-farm study in the Krakovany (Danube Lowland, Slovakia). We evaluated pore-size distributions and selected hydro-physical properties (capillary rise, maximum capillary water capacity and retention water capacity). The total porosity (P) on average by 23% and by 14%, non-capillary pores (Pn) by 271% and by 114% and semicapillary pores by 102% and by 192% were significantly greater for CT than MT in Chernozem and in Mollic Fluvisol, respectively. The content of capillary pores (Pc) was significantly greater for MT than CT on average by 13% and 8% in Chernozem and in Mollic Fluvisol, respectively. The average content of capillary rise (ΘCR), maximum capillary water capacity (ΘMCWC) and retention water capacity (ΘRWC) were higher by 6, 10 and 13% under MT than CT in soil profile of Chernozem. The same effect of soil tillage systems in Mollic Fluvisol was not observed. In Chernozem under MT with increased P, ΘCR significantly increased, however, under CT, the ΘCR significantly decreased. At the same time we determined negative correlations between Pn and soil water retention characteristics under CT. Higher content of Pc resulted in higher values of capillary rise, maximum capillary water capacity and retention water capacity in both soil types under both tillage systems.
A Study of Source and Sink Relationships to Select Wheat Lines and Genotypes for Drought Tolerance
Authors: Kamel M. , Yazdansepas A.
Published: November 2016

In current study, 14 genotypes of bread wheat chosen by breeding tests in Zanjan Agricultural Research Institute of Iran were exposed to two experiment under irrigation and late season drought stress. The experiments were conducted between 2012-2013 in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Analysis of variance showed that, under non-stress condition, the differences among genotypes were significant regarding biological yield and grain weight per spike, while under stress condition in addition there were significant differences about grain yield and biological yield at pollination stage. Under normal and stress condition, the highest and the lowest biological yield was observed in genotype 3 (52.6 g per 15 stems), genotype 2 (35 g per 15 stems), respectively. The average weight of grain per spike decreased by 44.38 % under drought stress condition. In flag leaf removal experiment, results showed that the genotypes significantly differed under non-stress condition regarding the spike weight, grain weight per spike and weight of the leaves, except flag leaf, while under stress condition there were significant differences among genotypes in terms of biological yield, spike weight, peduncle weight at pollination stage, grain weight pre spike and weight of the leaves, except flag leaf. In leaves defoliation (except flag leaf), results showed that the differences among genotypes under normal and stress condition regarding spike weight, grain number per spike, biological yield, peduncle weight, and flag leaf weight were significant.
Genetic Diversity Among Some Rice Genotypes with Different Drought Tolerance based on SSR Markers
Authors: Freeg H.A. , Anis G.B. , Abo-Shousha A.A. , El-Banna A.N. , El-Sabagh A.
Published: November 2016

Rice is the most important food crop for the developing world. Hence, identifying rice genotypes to drought tolerance for using as donors in breeding is one of the most important challenges for rice research. Therefore, Molecular markers are useful tools to determine genetic diversity and identifying rice genotypes to drought tolerance. In the present study, A number of 41 rice genotypes with different drought tolerance from different geographic locations were evaluated for genetic diversity by using 15 SSR markers. A total of 68 alleles were detected of which 61(89.79%) were polymorphic. The number of alleles detected by a single marker varied from 2 to 8 alleles with an average of 4.71 alleles per locus. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.07 (RM219) to 0.80 (RM263) with an average of 0.52. Genetic similarity coefficients of pair wise comparisons were estimated on the basis of the polymorphic microsatelite loci ranged from 0.23 to 0.91 indicating a wide range of genetic variation present among the studied genotypes. It was determined that the primers RM20A, RM302, RM212 and RM286 could be useful for selecting drought tolerant lines through MAS approach. The most significant application of these identified major QTLs for drought tolerance is to collect those favorable alleles into elite local line through marker assisted breeding. The results indicated the ability of SSR markers to identify the allelic diversity and genetic variation among the studied rice genotypes. These results recommended for using this material in future breeding programs to provide important source of genetic diversity for drought tolerance in rice.
INA Gene Inactivation in Isolated Strains from Frozen Leaves and its Effects on Plant Freezing
Authors: Yadollahpour A. , Bagheri N.A. , Rahimian H.
Published: November 2016

Freezing is a major environmental stress, which limits plant’s distribution, growth and productivity. Ice nucleation active bacteria can catalyze ice formation at temperatures as high as −2°C. A membrane protein confer the ability of ice nucleation, called ice-nucleating proteins (INPs), which is encoded by a single gene. Mutation in this gene will lead to delaying of ice nucleation. In this study, leaf tissues of several plants with freezing symptoms were collected from different locations and 40 bacterial isolates with yellow circular colonies and regular margins were isolated from samples. Finally, total of 12 isolates belong to Xanthomonas were selected for ice nucleate activity (INA) by Droplet-freezing test and presence of INA gene was surveyed by PCR. According to the obtained results, isolate 28 was targeted to mutagenesis by using Tn5 transposon. After mutagenesis, isolates with ability to grow on kanamycin, which lack of INAx gene in PCR were considered as mutated isolates and their freezing effects were evaluated on bean seedlings. Results showed that isolates with mutated INA gene cannot induce freezing on bean seedlings, while primary identified isolate (isolate 28) could do it. These results show that if we could replace wild type ice nucleation active bacteria with mutated forms (just different in ice nucleation activity), we could, probably, prevent freezing and subsequent economic losses.
Assessment of Consumer Preferences on Table Grapes of New Vitis vinifera L. Cultivars
Authors: Filimon R.V. , Damian Doina , Filimon Roxana , Rotaru Liliana
Published: November 2016

Studying consumer behaviour became a concern of grape producers and grapevine breeders since they can learn how consumers choose their products and which are the factors influencing their choice. In this study, 98 respondents from Iaşi County, NE of Romania, aged between 18 and 61 years and grouped in four age categories, were surveyed in order to determine through sensorial analysis their perception on table grapes of seven new Vitis vinifera L. cultivars created in Romania. Respondents’ perception differed with age category. Subjects between 18 and 27 years were the most demanding, grape colour uniformity and aromas being considered very poor. Contrariwise, seeds perception and skin thickness were not assessed as negative features. Respondents from 28 and 35 years appreciated positively the grapes of Napoca and Gelu cultivars, aromatic sensation being noted as very intense for most cultivars. The 36-45 years group considered that grapes of studied cultivars have neutral aroma and seeds perception is unpleasant, grapes of Cetăţuia cultivar being preferred. Respondents between the 46-61 years age group rated positively the grapes of Transilvania and Napoca cultivars, especially for the intensity of aromatic sensation, colour and bloom uniformity. Mean data analysis, revealed that the respondents preferred black grapes with lighter and uniform shades of colour, with large and crunchy berries covered by a uniform wax layer, a balanced sugar/acidity ratio and fewer seeds, grapes of Transilvania cultivar being the closest to their demands. The study revealed that table grapes of the studied V. vinifera L. cultivars created in Romania possess valuable features highly appreciated by consumers and superior characteristics, that can be further use in vine breeding programmes.
Kritische Anthropologie?
Authors: Krüger Hans-Peter
Published: November 2016

This article compares Max Horkheimer’s and Theodor W. Adorno’s foundation of the Frankfurt Critical Theory with Helmuth Plessner’s foundation of Philosophical Anthropology. While Horkheimer’s and Plessner’s paradigms are mutually incompatible, Adorno’s „negative dialectics“ and Plessner’s „negative anthropology“ (G. Gamm) can be seen as complementing one another. Jürgen Habermas at one point sketched a complementary relationship between his own publicly communicative theory of modern society and Plessner’s philosophy of nature and human expressivity, and though he then came to doubt this, he later reaffirmed it. Faced with the „life power“ in „high capitalism“ (Plessner), the ambitions for a public democracy in a pluralistic society have to be broadened from an argumentative focus (Habermas) to include the human condition and the expressive modes of our experience as essentially embodied persons. The article discusses some possible aspects of this complementarity under the title of a „critical anthropology“ (H. Schnädelbach).
Ästhetik und Kunst des Computerspiels
Authors: Feige Daniel Martin
Published: November 2016

The paper aims to clarify the aesthetic as well as artistic status of videogames by placing it in a broader context of considerations in philosophical aesthetics. It develops those perspectives in three steps. The first step (i) aims to show that, contrary to what one might think, it is not possible to classically define videogames in terms of solely necessary and jointly sufficient conditions, because such a definition treats singular videogames as mere cases of the general concept of video games and thus abandons a genuinely aesthetic perspective. The second step (ii) analyses the aesthetics of videogames in terms of its complex relation to other aesthetic mediums and shows how aesthetically significant videogames negotiate what it means to be a videogame at all. The third step (iii) finally discusses the possibility of videogames being works of art and argues that some video games are works of art by affording a reflection on ourselves in and through the process of playing such a videogame.
Jane Addams und ihre internationale Ethik eines sozialen Radikalismus: globale Gerechtigkeit als realistische Utopie
Authors: Cochran Molly
Published: November 2016

As a philosophy with human problems at its centre and in a time of rapidly changing social conditions, classical Pragmatism engaged an ethics of social radicalism, an ethics that extended as far as human problems do: to the global. To understand how ideas like global justice are generated within pragmatism, it is important to examine not only the thought, but also the activism of pragmatists and how the experimental method of pragmatism was applied to global problems of its day. The life and work of Jane Addams is particularly rich for this kind of investigation. Addams met human problems at both local and global levels with the working hypothesis of applying and observing what a democratic attitude of radical social justice brings to felt indeterminacies. This article begins by comparing and contrasting a pragmatist approach to global justice as opposed to one better known, that of John Rawls, and moves on to examining the difference that Addams’s experience as a woman and an activist makes to how she practiced the pragmatist method in relation to global problems of the Progressive Era.
Derivation of an Upscaled Model for Mass Transfer and Reaction for Non-Food Starch Conversion to Bioethanol
Authors: Benítez-Olivares Guillermo , Valdés-Parada Francisco J. , Saucedo-Castañeda J. Gerardo
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we derive mathematical models for mass transfer and reaction taking place in first-generation bioreactors to convert non-food starch into bioethanol. Given the hierarchical nature of the system, we identified three scale levels ranging from inside bagasse fibers (the pore scale) where the reaction occurs, up to the bioreactor itself (macroscopic scale) where the various products obtained from this reaction are monitored. We derive a macroscopic model at the reactor scale by systematically upscaling the relevant information from the pore scale using the method of volume averaging. A salient feature of the model is that the effective medium coefficients involved are predicted by solving ancillary closure problems in representative unit cells of the different levels of scale. The predictions of the model in terms of CO2production as well as cellular growth were validated with a close agreement with available experimental data. This work enhances our understanding of the relevance of transport phenomena taking place at the different scales in a bioreactor and may become an aid in design and operation applications of bioethanol production systems.
Dependency of Military Capabilities on Technological Development
Authors: Kuikka Vesa , Nikkarila Juha-Pekka , Suojanen Marko
Published: November 2016

Our goal is to get better understanding of different kind of dependencies behind the high-level capability areas. The models are suitable for investigating present state capabilities or future developments of capabilities in the context of technology forecasting. Three levels are necessary for a model describing effects of technologies on military capabilities. These levels are capability areas, systems and technologies. The contribution of this paper is to present one possible model for interdependencies between technologies. Modelling interdependencies between technologies is the last building block in constructing a quantitative model for technological forecasting including necessary levels of abstraction. This study supplements our previous research and as a result we present a model for the whole process of capability modelling. As in our earlier studies, capability is defined as the probability of a successful task or operation or proper functioning of a system. In order to obtain numerical data to demonstrate our model, we conducted a questionnaire to a group of defence technology researchers where interdependencies between seven representative technologies were inquired. Because of a small number of participants in questionnaires and general uncertainties concerning subjective evaluations, only rough conclusions can be made from the numerical results.
Employing Human Performance Optimization Initiatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities: The Case of the U.S. Military
Authors: Harris G.L.A. , Shivers Ayanna , Deuster Patricia
Published: November 2016

To preemptively respond to the ever changing battlefield and in light of growing threats to national security, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and by extension the U.S. military, have developed human performance optimization (HPO) initiatives to improve warfighter performance for increasing mission readiness. African American officers, by way of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), have long been and continue to be an important constituency for this strategy.

Using the results of an online search via the Internet of HPO-like academic offerings at HBCUs, this paper proposes that the U.S. military could enhance its war fighting capability, and specifically that of its African American officers, for increased preparedness, increased performance and sustained and increased readiness by modeling HPO like programs at HBCUs. The authors examine similar efforts around the world, offer the potential benefits to be derived from expanded collaborations between the U.S. military and HBCUs and discuss the implications for the U.S. military and militaries within international communities, HBCUs and future research.
Deep Leadership Coaching Effectiveness
Authors: Kinnunen Tommi
Published: November 2016

The effectiveness of a coaching process called Deep Lead, deriving from the leadership training of the Finnish Defence Forces, has not been studied efficiently in different civil organisations. This article presents an insight into the effectiveness of this coaching method in two different work communities (PVO-Vesivoima and TAC Finland Inc. Service). The main research question in this article is how to ensure the effectiveness of this particular type of leadership coaching / training. To achieve the best possible results, methodological triangulation was needed in this survey. In this article, two contributing models were introduced (figures 2 and 3) for examining coaching or training effectiveness. By means of these, it can hopefully be examined in the future whether the coaching / training process remains to be a cost, or whether it is an essential investment for the work communities. According to the leadership coaching effectiveness research results of the study at PVO-Vesivoima, such areas as co-operation, interaction and feedback culture were strengthened. As a conclusion, it can be stated that this leadership coaching process works as a practical leadership tool for management in developing the work community both internally and externally. Another example was a work community (TAC Finland Inc Service) that aimed to improve customer satisfaction, evoke know-how, and improve profits by using the deep lead -coaching method. According to the research results, remarkable improvements were accomplished in every field mentioned compared to the time preceding the leadership coaching process or the beginning of the leadership coaching process. In both examples, results were studied using different indicators, different time spans, different methods, and by different reports done by different people. As an outcome of these researches, the leadership coaching process was considered to be effective in PVO-Vesivoima and in TAC, and in the conclusion a practical description of leadership coaching / training or other educational intervention verified on an individual level is introduced.
An Abstract Approach. Rational Non-Sense To Replace Historical Nonsense in Educating Leaders
Authors: Kerttunen Mika
Published: November 2016

This research questions the value of empiricism and historical case studies in higher level officer education. It will instead emphasize the need and importance of a rationalist approach to knowledge. It will outline a tentative example of an abstract approach to case studies. By doing this the author seeks to enhance the education of abstract thinking - an art that is required from joint level and general staff officers.
Special Operations Principles and Finnish Long Range Patrols during WWII
Authors: Lillbacka Ralf
Published: November 2016

The study assessed whether the six special operations principles (simplicity, security, repetition, speed, purpose, and surprise) proposed by Admiral William McRaven could predict the degree of success among Finnish long range patrols during WWII. Eighty-four missions that included deliberate contact with the enemy were considered. Bootstrapped estimates were obtained from a LISREL path model. The result offers partial support for McRaven’s model. Significant direct and indirect effects of security, purpose and surprise were demonstrated. Limitations imposed by available data, as well as the circumstance that other principles were rarely violated, may explain the absence of further significant effects. It is furthermore suggested that the principles can be divided into “decisive” (security, purpose, and surprise) where negligence has immediate detrimental consequences, and “contextual” (simplicity, repetition, and in part, speed) that are largely case-specific and may need further precision to be analytically viable. The cause for the absence of significant effects would according to this interpretation be that the principles, as they are generally defined, fail to identify contextual circumstances that are crucial for success.
Stressors, social support and military performance in a modern war scenario
Authors: Moldjord Christian , Laberg Jon Christian , Rundmo Torbjørn
Published: November 2016

The present study examined differences in stressors, coping strategies, and military performance in two groups deployed in the same war scenario, but with operative and psychologically different challenges.

A total of 173 military personnel participated in the study. Questionnaires measuring stress, coping strategies and military performance were administered before and after deployment in Afghanistan. Hierarchical Regression Analyses measured the extent to which stressors or coping strategies explained variance in military performance.

Operational personnel judged their military performance better than Staff personnel. Social Support was the most important predictor variables of military performance. The results are discussed with regard to differences in the operative and psychological challenges during service and the general effect of stressors and social support on military performance.

Social support was important for coping with challenges regardless of the type of service you completed.
Using English to Learn While Learning to Use English: International Field Trips as a Way to Learn (Through) Language
Authors: Alcântara Lucélia Ramos
Published: November 2016

Learning English has always been the goal for many people to achieve. Content knowledge of any subject used to have no direct relation with mastering a foreign language. That is water under the bridge. Learning through a foreign language is a trend and must be considered as a way to prepare students for a globalized world. The adoption of a Content Language Integrated Learning Approach seems to fulfill the need for future successful professionals in field. By offering the opportunity to live real-life situations where content has to be acquired through any understanding of input in English, international field trips are an excellent way to educate content-literate and language-effective students.
Von der militärischen Maßnahme zum politischen Machtmittel
Authors: Götter Christian
Published: November 2016

Die zuerst britische, später alliierte Wirtschaftsblockade Deutschlands im Ersten Weltkrieg galt den Zeitgenossen als entscheidender Beitrag zum Kriegsausgang. Während sie in der angloamerikanischen Forschung einige Aufmerksamkeit erhält, wird sie in der deutschen in letzter Zeit eher stiefmütterlich behandelt. Dieser Aufsatz soll ein Beitrag dazu sein, diese Wirtschaftsblockade bei der Beschäftigung mit dem Ersten Weltkrieg stärker zu berücksichtigen. In ihm argumentiere ich dafür, den Ersten Weltkrieg als einen entscheidenden Katalysator für Veränderungen des Umfangs und der Form der Blockade zu verstehen, der aus einem Mittel der Kriegführung des 19. Jahrhunderts ein politisches Druckmittel des 20. (und 21.) Jahrhunderts gemacht hat.
Common Diagnostic Test Results Over the Years
Authors: Aruvee Eve
Published: November 2016

In this article, common test results over the years 2000 – 2016 are analysed. The test questions for new entrants were based on secondary school mathematics. The students took the test in the first lesson of the higher mathematics course. The test results were analysed by years, by tasks and by specialities, and their differences were found. The test results’ dependence on state-exams score was studied and other types of dependence were looked at.

It was found that the test score has a strong correlation with a state-exam but with high school mathematics mark and with later higher mathematics course marks has very weak correlation. During these 16 years, the questions that have been the most difficult for students have not changed. The highest test scores were found among students who had chosen the most popular specialities (with the highest competition).
Fault Diagnosis of Low-Power Three-Phase Induction Motor
Authors: Gedzurs Aleksejs
Published: November 2016

An Induction motor reliability survey at an egg processing plant shows that almost 50% of the total motor failures are fan induction motors. Visual investigations of the faulty fan motors show that the main cause of the induction motor failure is air gap eccentricity. In this study, experimental tests are performed on a 1.1kW three-phase induction motor to detect air gap eccentricity and overheating of the induction motor. Heating tests show that end shield housing temperature reaches 100°C with blocked air flow from the fan, which can reduce the lifespan of the bearing. Dimension measurements of the end shield housing show that the dimensions of both tested motors back-end shields are larger than ISO tolerance grade limit. It leads to a loose fit between the housing and bearing, causing air gap eccentricity. Also, both motor back end shield housing has an out-of-round condition leading to an unbalanced magnetic pull. To detect the air gap eccentricity caused by too loose of a fit between housing bore and bearing, current Park’s vector approach is used. To measure three phase current, Hall Effect current transducers, a digital oscilloscope is used and Matlab software to process the measurement data. Results show that Park’s vector approach can be used to detect the air gap eccentricity caused by too loose a fit between bearing and housing. Therefore, the Park’s vector approach can be used to diagnose air gap eccentricity and analyse the type of the air gap eccentricity.
The Need for Accurate Risk Prediction Models for Road Mapping, Shared Decision Making and Care Planning for the Elderly with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Stryckers Marijke , Nagler Evi V , Van Biesen Wim
Published: November 2016

As people age, chronic kidney disease becomes more common, but it rarely leads to end-stage kidney disease. When it does, the choice between dialysis and conservative care can be daunting, as much depends on life expectancy and personal expectations of medical care. Shared decision making implies adequately informing patients about their options, and facilitating deliberation of the available information, such that decisions are tailored to the individual’s values and preferences. Accurate estimations of one’s risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease and death with or without dialysis are essential for shared decision making to be effective. Formal risk prediction models can help, provided they are externally validated, well-calibrated and discriminative; include unambiguous and measureable variables; and come with readily applicable equations or scores. Reliable, externally validated risk prediction models for progression of chronic kidney disease to end-stage kidney disease or mortality in frail elderly with or without chronic kidney disease are scant. Within this paper, we discuss a number of promising models, highlighting both the strengths and limitations physicians should understand for using them judiciously, and emphasize the need for external validation over new development for further advancing the field.
Body Size and Outcomes in Dialysis and Transplant Patients – Does it Matter?
Authors: Sever Mehmet Sukru
Published: November 2016

The terminologies of “body size”, “body mass index (BMI)”, “body weight”, “large BMI” and “obesity” are controversial for defining the effects of “adiposity” or “fat excess” on the outcomes of dialysis and transplant patients. However, probably these terminologies will be continued to be used in the future as well, because of being older and simpler terminologies.

In the general population obesity is a powerful risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, while, it conferred a survival advantage to dialysis patients. However, this may be a oversimplification, since obesity may still be a risk factor in non-sarcopenic hemodialysis patients.

Obesity is associated with early post-transplant adverse effects (i.e. delayed graft function, graft failure, wound infections, also transplant costs) and unfavorable graft and patient survival. However, thanks to safer immunosuppressive protocols, recently graft and patient survival is similar in obese as those of the non-obese patients. On the other hand, morbid obesity may still be a cause of unfavorable patient and graft survival.

Since obese transplant recipients have better life expectancy as compared to wait-listed hemodialysis patients, they should be transplanted as well, while morbidly obese patients should be asked to lose weight before being placed in the waiting lists.
Maternal Lipids May Predict Fetal Growth in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Pregnancies
Authors: Krstevska Brankica , Jovanovska Sasha Misevska , Krstevska Slagjana Simeonova , Nakova Valentina Velkoska , Serafimoski Vladimir
Published: November 2016

Aim: During diabetic pregnancy, complex metabolic changes occur in the lipid profile. The aim of the study was to determine the predictive values of maternal serum lipid levels on large-for-gestational age newborns during the third trimester in pregnancies of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Material and methods: Data of forty three pregnancies of women with DM2 and two hundred women with GDM were analyzed. The analysis encompassed the following parameters: age, body mass index (BMI), lipid parameters, HbA1c in first, second and third trimester of pregnancy, preeclampsia and baby birth weight.

Results: DM2 and GDM groups showed statistically significant differences in the following variables: total lipids, triglycerides, total cholesterol, BMI, age, baby birth weight, incidence of SGA and preterm delivery (9.4 ± 2.3 vs. 11.0 ± 2.3 mmol/L, 2.4 ± 1.4 vs. 3.4 ± 1.6 mmol/L, 5.5 ± 1.2 vs. 6.4 ± 1.4 mmol/L, 30.6 ± 5.4 vs. 26.9 ± 5.2 kg/m2, 34 ± 7.8 vs. 31.5 ± 5.6 years, 3183 ± 972 vs. 3533 ± 699 g., 20% vs. 7.5%, 27.9 vs. 14%, respectively, p < 0.05). Linear multiple regression analysis demonstrated that triglycerides, LDL-C and total cholesterol were independent predictors of LGA (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Triglycerides and LDL-C in the third trimester of pregnancy are independent predictors for fetal macrosomia in DM2 and GDM pregnancies. Thus, the maternal serum triglycerides and LDL-C levels determined in the maternal blood taken in the third trimester of pregnancy may indentify women who will give birth to LGA newborns.
Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Pancreas: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Spasevska Liljana , Janevska Vesna , Janevski Vlado , Noveska Biljana , Zhivadinovik Julija
Published: November 2016

Pancreas is an extremely rare abdominal localization of the solitary fibrous tumor (SFT). It usually grows asymptomatically for a long time before a diagnosis can be made on the basis of symptoms and/or mechanical complications. Due to the rarity and nonspecific clinical presentation, this entity is diagnostically challenging.

We present a 47-year-old man with a history of progressive epigastric pain for the last two weeks, and jaundice, who was admitted to hospital for further investigation. Cystadenocarcinoma was suspected based on the radiologic findings, and a pancreatoduodenectomy was performed. The removed portion of the pancreas contained a 3.5 × 2 × 1.8 cm well-circumscribed, but not encapsulated white tumor mass with smooth cut surface, cystic component and duct dilatation within the tumor and within the adjacent pancreatic tissue. Based on the histology and immunostaining profile, a diagnosis of the solitary fibrous tumor was made. One week post-operatively, the patient died due to surgical complications.

Microscopic and immunohistochemical examinations are necessary for accurate diagnosis of cystic SFT of the pancreas. Because there is limited data regarding the biological behavior of SFT with extra-pleural localization the authors recommend clinical follow-up for SFT treatment if the criteria of malignancy are not met.
A Comparison of the Financial Characteristics of U.S. and European Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Meric Gulser , Bentley T. Jerome , McCall W. Charles , Meric Ilhan
Published: November 2016

Comparing the financial characteristics of firms in different countries and regions has been a popular research topic in finance. In this paper, we compare the financial characteristics of U.S. and European manufacturing firms with the MANOVA (Multivariate Analysis of Variance) method and financial ratios. Our findings indicate that the overall financial characteristics of U.S. and European manufacturing firms are significantly different. We find that U.S. manufacturing firms are more profitable and they have less liquidity and bankruptcy risks compared with European manufacturing firms. European manufacturing firms are more efficient in managing their fixed assets. However, U.S. manufacturing firms are more efficient in managing their accounts receivable and total assets. U.S. manufacturing firms are able to achieve significantly higher sales and total assets growth rates compared with European manufacturing firms.
Optimal Mixed Strategy Play: Professionals Can, Students Cannot, But What About the in Between Case?
Authors: Pfaff Jordan , McGarrity P. Joseph
Published: November 2016

Using penalty kicks in collegiate soccer matches, we test whether kickers choose where to place shots, and whether goalies choose where to dive in a way that is consistent with optimal mixed strategy play. The previous literature, studying professional soccer players, provides evidence of mixed strategy play in penalty kick scenarios. These results contrast with the evidence obtained in a lab, studying subjects who only play a game a few times and have insignificant monetary payoffs. These lab results find no evidence of mixed strategy play. The contrast between the results obtained from these very different environments makes it unclear which result generalizes to other settings. By studying college athletes, we analyze the middle ground, which is where most strategic decisions will be made. We find that college players employ optimal strategic play in some respects, but not in other respects.
Using Interactive Methods in Teaching Accounting
Authors: Sava Raluca
Published: November 2016

Active learning shifts the focus of instruction from what the teacher should teach or deliver to students, to what the students should be able to do with the course material. Interactive methods are modern ways of stimulating teaching, representing tools of learning which favor the interchange of ideas, experiences, and knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to present a series of active teaching methods for the accounting data as being an alternative in the process of improving the teaching and learning of the accounting process.
Leaders – A Determinant Role
Authors: Vacar Anca
Published: November 2016

No matter of the business sector the company plays in, today leadership is essential in order to be successful, because when we speak about leadership we think about the power that is the result of the connection between a leader and his followers. Today it is important to have good managers that organize and conduct the company in order to achieve the objectives, but it is more important that the managers to be good leaders that have the power to influence other in participating for achieving companies goals.
Stories from Poland by a Welsh Soldier–John Elwyn Jones’s Translations
Authors: Klonowska Marta
Published: November 2016

The majority of translations from Polish into Welsh published so far are the works of John Elwyn Jones (1921-2008), who learned Polish in a German prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. His translations include Storiâu Byr o’r Bwyleg, a collection of short stories by two of the classic authors of the Polish Positivist period, Bolesław Prus and Henryk Sienkiewicz. This paper analyses two stories from the collection, Ianco’r Cerddor “Janko Muzykant” and Y Wasgod “Kamizelka”, within a comparative functional model of translation criticism. The texts are analysed in the light of lexical-semantic, cultural and aesthetic codes. A great number of modifications to the source texts introduced in the Welsh translation places them on the border between free translations and adaptations. While some of the alterations are tokens of a specific translation strategy, others can be regarded as translation errors. Although the Welsh version retains the primary message of the original stories, much of their culture-specific dimension, historical context and artistic value is not conveyed in the translation.
Successful Learners of Irish as an L2: Motivation, Identity and Linguistic Mudes
Authors: Petit Kevin
Published: November 2016

This article presents the results of a small-scale research conducted for a master’s thesis on the motivation to learn Irish on the part of university students and members of the Gaelic society An Cumann Gaelach. In the light of questionnaires’ results and interviews, the emphasis is placed on the links between motivation, identity, and potential key moments in learners’ lives. Using an AMTB-type questionnaire (n=45), the author puts to the test Dörnyei’s Motivational Self System theory (2005) in the context of the learning of Irish by looking at the correlation between the motivational intensity of 45 students and six variables (Ideal L2 Self, Ought to Self, Ideal L2 Community, Instrumentality, Parental encouragement, and Role of teachers). The notion of Ideal L2 Self, or the capacity to picture oneself speaking an L2 in the future, clearly appears to be strongly correlated with the respondents’ motivational intensity (r=.75 p<.01), in accordance with Dörnyei’s model. However results concerning extrinsic factors differ from previous research, putting forward distinctive features of the learning of minority languages. The second phase of the research looks at the language learning narratives of three An Cumann Gaelach’s members through the qualitative analysis of three interview transcripts. The results clearly show that time spent in Irish summer colleges are linguistic mudes (Pujolar and Puigdevall 2015), or key-moments, which triggered the interest in the language for the three students interviewed.
Motivational Factors in the Acquisition of Welsh in Poland
Authors: Rosiak Karolina , Hornsby Michael
Published: November 2016

For some years now, Welsh has been taught as a foreign language outside Wales, most especially in other Celtic countries, central Europe – and Poland. The first courses were established in the Catholic University of Lublin in the 1980s, and this provision has expanded over the years to include a Celtic language specialisation within the Faculty of English at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. Relying at first on teachers from Wales to provide instruction in Welsh, the Centre for Celtic Studies is increasingly producing new, competent speakers/users of Welsh among the Poles. An obvious question to be asked concerns motivational issues – why, on the eastern edges of the European Union, are there people willing to put the effort into learning a language from the far west of Europe, when they have, in some cases, little contact with regular users of Welsh? Through the use of focus group interviews, the present study attempts to discover what motivates Polish students to study Welsh in a context of limited direct contact with the speakers of the language and limited, indirect access to Welsh language and culture.
Polish Migration’s Socio-Cultural Impact on Wales in the Aftermath of 2004 – Preliminary Findings from Western Wales: An Aberystwyth Case Study
Authors: Wróbel Paweł
Published: November 2016

This papers looks at the societal and cultural impact of the post-2004 Polish migration to Wales. The history of Polish migration to the UK is introduced together with the relevant statistics and their rationale behind choosing cosmopolitan Wales as their new country of residence. Even though the focus of the paper is rather on the UK as a whole, it is Wales that is central to the investigation. Wales was particularly neglected in the study of migration in the aftermath of the 2004 European Union (EU) enlargement and surprisingly little attention was given to it. Focusing on Polish diaspora is important as it is the most numerous external migration wave to Wales (ONS 2011). The case study of Aberystwyth is introduced as a good example of a semi-urban area to which Poles migrated after 2004. Moreover, the paper elaborates on the characteristics of the Polish newcomers by analysing their distinctive features, migration patterns as well as adaptation processes. Mutual relations between post-1945 and post-2004 immigration waves are investigated, together with Poles’ own image and perception. This paper gives a deeper understanding and provides an insight into the nature of the Polish migrants’ impact on the cultural and societal life of Wales.
Semantics with Dependent Types for Indefinites
Authors: Grudzińska Justyna
Published: November 2016

The paper proposes a new semantics with dependent types for indefinites, encompassing both the data related to their exceptional scopal behavior and the data related to their anaphoric (dynamic) properties. The proposal builds on the formal system combining generalized quantifiers ([Mostowski 1957], [Lindström 1966]) with dependent types ([Martin-Löf 1972], [Makkai 1995]) in [Grudzińska & Zawadowski 2014] and [Grudzińska & Zawadowski 2016].