bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Template-free Hydrothermal Synthesis of Copper Phthalocyanine Nanobelts
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Li Hejun , Wei Jianfeng , Li Kezhi , Fu Qiangang , Shen Qingliang
Published: January 2015

A novel template-free hydrothermal approach has been developed to synthesize metastable α-phase copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanobelts, which can be realized under a mild condition with a low reaction temperature. The morphology of CuPc nanobelts at different growth stages was observed using field emission scanning electron microscopy. The structures were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Results show that as-synthesized α-CuPc nanobelts possess well-crystalline structure with diameters of about 100 nm and long lengths above 50 µm. In addition, a self-assembly formation mechanism of CuPc nanobelts has been briefly discussed.
Expanding “Choice” in School Choice
Authors: Abdulkadiroğlu Atila , Che Yeon-Koo , Yasuda Yosuke
Published: January 2015

Gale-Shapley's deferred acceptance (henceforth DA) mechanism has emerged as a prominent candidate for placing students to public schools. While DA has desirable fairness and incentive properties, it limits the applicants' abilities to communicate their preference intensities, which entails ex ante inefficiency when ties at school preferences are broken randomly. We propose a variant of deferred acceptance mechanism that allows students to influence how they are treated in ties. It inherits much of the desirable properties of DA but performs better in ex ante efficiency. (JEL D82, H75, I21, I28)
Would People Behave Differently If They Better Understood Social Security? Evidence from a Field Experiment
Authors: Liebman Jeffrey B. , Luttmer Erzo F. P.
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the results of a randomized field experiment that provided information about key Social Security features to older workers. The experiment was designed to examine whether it is possible to affect individual behavior using a relatively inexpensive informational intervention about the provisions of a public program and to explore the mechanisms underlying the behavior change. We find that our relatively mild intervention (sending an informational brochure and an invitation to a web-tutorial) increased labor force participation one year later by 4 percentage points relative to the control group mean of 74 percent. (JEL C93, D12, H55)
Using Taxes to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rates of New Passenger Vehicles: Evidence from France, Germany, and Sweden
Authors: Klier Thomas , Linn Joshua
Published: January 2015

France, Germany, and Sweden link taxes to passenger vehicles' carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions rates. Based on new vehicle registration data from 2005 to 2010, we find that CO2 taxes reduce registrations. The effect is larger in France than in either Germany or Sweden, and the French results are robust to alternative estimation models. Compared with those of France, the German results vary somewhat more, and the Swedish estimates are the least robust. We find some evidence that the French tax affected the mix of new vehicles that vehicle manufacturers offered in the French market. (JEL H23, L62, Q54, Q58)
The Effects of Voting Costs on the Democratic Process and Public Finances
Authors: Hodler Roland , Luechinger Simon , Stutzer Alois
Published: January 2015

Increasing the attractiveness of voting is often seen as a remedy for unequal participation and the influence of special-interest groups on public policy. However, lower voting costs may also bring less informed citizens to the poll, thereby inviting efforts to sway these voters. We substantiate this argument in a probabilistic voting model with campaign contributions. In an empirical analysis for the 26 Swiss cantons, we find that lower voting costs due to postal voting are related to higher turnout, lower average education and political knowledge of participants as well as lower government welfare expenditures and lower business taxation. (JEL D72, H25, H75, I20, I38)
Taxes on the Internet: Deterrence Effects of Public Disclosure
Authors: Bø Erlend E. , Slemrod Joel , Thoresen Thor O.
Published: January 2015

Although Norway has a long tradition of public disclosure of tax filings, starting in 2001 anyone with Internet access could obtain individual information on income and income taxes paid. We examine the effect on income reporting of this change in the degree of public disclosure, making use of the fact that prior to 2001, in some municipalities, tax information was distributed widely through locally produced paper catalogs. We find an approximately 3 percent higher average increase in reported income among business owners living in areas where the switch to Internet disclosure represented a large change in access. (JEL H24, H25, H26)
Online Form of Educational Programs in Multi-discipline Educational Institutions
Authors: Фирсова  , Firsova Irina , Лисицына  , Lisitsyna A.
Published: January 2015

The author discusses the advantages and capabilities of the online form of education programs, distinguishes features and ways of implementation of

online models. Emphasis is made on cooperation with universities as a way of №etworking whithin programs of Special Education.
Hierarchy of needs as a factor of cross-border business networks in rural tourism
Authors: Колесников Николай , Kolesnikov Nikolay , Колесникова Наталья , Kolesnikova Natalya
Published: January 2015

The article describes the stages in the formation of cross-border business partner networks in rural tourism with the business needs of its participants in the focus. The methodological basis of the research is the approach of A. Maslou, suggesting that human needs are organized in a hierarchical order. By analogy with the concept of Maslou, we assume that the motives of entrepreneurs which define their business activities are organized hierarchically as well. Upon reaching a certain level in the hierarchy of motivation entrepreneurs feel the need for co-operation within a network association. Progress in meeting the needs of increasingly high levels forms the motivation for qualitative development of the network association that determines the steps of forming business partner networks. This process is considered by the example of the cross-border business partner network between businesses of the Republic of Karelia and Finland in the field of rural tourism.
To the issue of sustainable autotourism development in Russia
Authors: Корнеев Алексей , Korneev Aleksey , Ермаков Александр , Ermakov Aleksandr , Руднева Марина , Rudneva Marina
Published: January 2015

The article describes the basic principles of sustainable development of auto tourism in Russia. The authors provide an analysis of the basic principles and types of sustainable development of caravanning and a formalized model of rational needs of sustainable development for a caravanning destination. The basic resources needed for sustainable development such destinations: efficient use of resources through re-use and management of savings with the use of modern innovative technical and technological solutions; maintaining the existing biodiversity in the destination through the protection and restoration of the natural heritage, protection of rare species of wild fauna and flora, restrictions on activities in trailering, reculturing territories, creating protected areas, etc; involvement of local communities in the territory of the decision-making process for trailering development; conducting responsible marketing for trailering to minimize pressure on the ecosystem at the maximum beneficial effects of tourism on destinations and on the regional economy due to uniform distribution of autotourists’ flows’ in time and space.
Major aspects of photo tourism in the yamal-nenets autonomous district
Authors: Киносян Мария , Kinosyan Mariya , Иошина Екатерина , Ioshina Ekaterina , Корнеев Алексей , Korneev Aleksey
Published: January 2015

The article describes the main aspects of the development of photo-tourism in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District. It is shown that this type of tourism is new, so it does not appear in any of existing regulations. The authors have attempted to give a definition of this type of tourism; show its main consumers. Presented are the factors that affect the emergence and development of photo-tourism. As part of this work the classification of photo tours is suggested, which provides information on the basic criteria required for forming such tours. These criteria include: the age of tourists, comfort level, duration of the tour, the form of the tour, as well as the objects for making photos. The optimal number of participants in the photo tour is determined as 1-3 people for individual tours and 3-8 for group tours). The authors prove the possibility of the development of photo-tourism in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District. To do this, an analysis of the main indicators of tourism development in the region is conducted and identified are tourist resources necessary for the development of photo-tourism. The main problems hindering the development of photo-tourism in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District, and their solutions are also suggested.

In conclusion, it is concluded that the photo-tourism, of course, is not a mass form of tourism, so tourist traffic statistics are not kept, since the number of arrivals with objectives of photo-tourism is insignificant. Currently, however, for most tourists mass tourism programs and direction are becoming unpopular, and in this regard popularization of unusual and unfamiliar forms of recreation, including photo-tourism, is increasing. Thanks to advances in technologies, promotion of social networks and advances in Internet photo art is now considered "fashionable". All this must surely affect the development of photo-tourism, in particular in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District.
Development of a model of car tourism in moscow region
Authors: Корнеев Алексей , Korneev Aleksey , Ермаков Александр , Ermakov Aleksandr , Руднева Марина , Rudneva Marina
Published: January 2015

The paper attempts to develop a model of automobile tourism in Moscow region. The authors consider the theoretical basis for the development of automobile tourism in the Russian Federation. It is noted that the car tourism can be considered as the most promising for the organization of travel inside the home region or in neighboring regions. Based on review of the literature on this subject the classification of types of automobile tourism is suggested, indicating that this type of tourism fits a wide range of population. The possibility of an active development of automobile tourism in Moscow region is studied. Analyzed are tourist resources such as transport infrastructure, accommodation facilities, cultural, historical and natural sites. On the basis of this analysis the authors creat an enlarged model of automobile tourism in Moscow region. The authors suggest measures that need to be implemented in Moscow Region by Government to create favorable conditions for the development of automobile tourism. The results of the public opinion poll on the topic "The main factors influencing the development of automobile tourism in the Moscow region" are highlighted, showing the importance of the development of road infrastructure and the development of models for road routes in Moscow region. In conclusion, the authors conclude that the Moscow region is a promising area for the development of automobile tourism.
Improving the quality of services for autotourists at companies providing roadside services
Authors: Голина Светлана , Golina Svetlana , Голубев Андрей , Golubev Andrey , Голубев Олег , Golubev Oleg
Published: January 2015

Further improvement of the quality of life is closely connected with the development of domestic tourism in the Russian Federation. To provide autotourists and road users with civilized conditions tourism and recreation and autoturist clusters are developing, as well as elements of their networks and diverse areas of road and roadside services. According to their functional purpose, the latter are divided into enterprises servicing car tourists and road users and those which function is the maintenance of rolling stock.

Development of infrastructure for technical services for wheeled vehicles of autotourists and road users and providing them with a single high standard of quality of specialized and related services must meet certain requirements, including the scope and structure of the fleet of wheeled vehicles and their lineup; growth of domestic and inbound tourism flows; increase in the range and volume of services provided; geographical expansion, regions and types of autotravel; individualization of services; road safety and compliance with environmental safety.

Until recently, the existing enterprises specializing in services for wheeled vehicles of autoturists and road users have had a low level of technical equipment and workload for productive employees. Formation of infrastructure maintenance and repair of rolling stock is advisable to be developed by types of services based on the block principle. A strategic step in improving the quality of services and efficiency of enterprises is the introduction of interactive elements of acceptance: focus primarily on the client, efficient organization of services, the use of modern information technology, competent staff, additional services and sales of related products and accessories.
Organization of practice-oriented training for tourism and hospitality
Authors: Бушуева Ирина , Bushueva Irina
Published: January 2015

The article deals with contemporary issues and experiences in practice-oriented training in higher education for tourism and hospitality. Among main problems marked are unwillingness of institutions of higher education to converse towards the new format of conducting educational activities; inconsistency on the part of business and tourist hotel industry, which voice dissatisfaction with the level of competency of graduates and at the same time actively remove themselves from real participation in the development and implementation of appropriate educational programs; lack of common terminology in the designation of positions and qualifications between scholars and tourist industry practitioners; lack of regulatory documentation support and coordination of competencies of graduates to the functional requirements of specific categories of personnel, and others. In the example of Russian State University of Tourism and Service for the integration of tourism education and tourism industry as a sphere of professional applications of graduates’ competences proposed are approaches to change the format and theoretical training as well as educational and industrial practices for bachelors enrolled in the areas of Tourism and Hospitality. Also shown is the specifics corresponding to each direction of organizational and specific content, as well as the role of the simulation environment for high school students during the development of their practical skills. As a basic condition for the successful implementation of the proposed approach, the author identified the development and approval of professional standards for employees of the tourism industry; willingness of higher education institutions to abandon the usual principles and techniques of the educational process; active and effective business desire to engage in the training of qualified personnel for their own purposes.
Application of optimization tasks in cluster analysis
Authors: Сдвижков Олег , Sdvizhkov Oleg
Published: January 2015

Cluster analysis [3] is a relatively new branch of mathematics that studies the methods partitioning a set of objects, given a finite set of attributes into homogeneous groups (clusters). Cluster analysis is widely used in psychology, sociology, economics (market segmentation), and many other areas in which there is a problem of classification of objects according to their characteristics. Clustering methods implemented in a package STATISTICA [1] and SPSS [2], they return the partitioning into clusters, clustering and dispersion statistics dendrogram of hierarchical clustering algorithms. MS Excel Macros for main clustering methods and application examples are given in the monograph [5].

One of the central problems of cluster analysis is to define some criteria for the number of clusters, we denote this number by K, into which separated are a given set of objects. There are several dozen approaches [4] to determine the number K. In particular, according to [6], the number of clusters K - minimum number which satisfies where - the minimum value of total dispersion for partitioning into K clusters, N - number of objects. Among the clusters automatically causes the consistent application of abnormal clusters [4]. In 2010, proposed and experimentally validated was a method for obtaining the number of K by applying the density function [4].

The article offers two simple approaches to determining K, where each cluster has at least two objects. In the first number K is determined by the shortest Hamiltonian cycles in the second - through the minimum spanning tree. The examples of clustering with detailed step by step solutions and graphic illustrations are suggested. Shown is the use of macro VBA Excel, which returns the minimum spanning tree to the problems of clustering. The article contains a macro code, with commentaries to the main unit.
Attainability in Repeated Games with Vector Payoffs
Authors: Bauso Dario , Lehrer Ehud , Solan Eilon , Venel Xavier
Published: January 2015

We introduce the concept of attainable sets of payoffs in two-player repeated games with vector payoffs. A set of payoff vectors is called attainable by a player if there is a positive integer such that the player can guarantee that in all finite game longer than that integer, the distance between the set and the cumulative payoff is arbitrarily small, regardless of the strategy Player 2 is using. We provide a necessary and sufficient condition for the attainability of a convex set, using the concept of B-sets. We then particularize the condition to the case in which the set is a singleton, and provide some equivalent conditions. We finally characterize when all vectors are attainable.
Training new educators
Authors: Gouldsboro Julia
Published: January 2015

Up and down the country students are undertaking the Early Years Educator qualification, and in order to push their standards ever higher, we as tutors, need to be fully prepared for the courses we teach.
Children's preconceptions of science: How these can be used in teaching
Authors: Kambouri Maria
Published: January 2015

A child's preconceptions of a subject, such as science, will directly affect their future learning, yet how many of us take the time to find out what these are and use them to then plan our lessons accordingly?
Nursing revalidation: the good, the bad and the slightly confusing
Authors: Senior Yvonne
Published: January 2015

The Nursing and Midwifery Council has started running the pilot study for its new revalidation model and is looking for nurses from all specialties, including medical aesthetics, to get involved. In her monthly column, Yvonne Senior shares her thoughts on the positives and pitfalls of the proposed model and encourages nurses to approach the project with an open mind
Intense pulsed light for skin rejuvenation: evidence base, indications and risks
Authors: Arias Laurie
Published: January 2015

For over 20 years, intense pulsed light (IPL) has been used for therapeutic indications such as common signs of photoageing, benign pigmented and vascular lesions, and hair removal. IPL is a widely used treatment modality in medical aesthetic clinics and is recognised for its comparable results to laser treatments. IPL is not only more affordable for patients, but also has less downtime post procedure. However, compared with other laser devices in this fast-evolving medical technology market, does this relatively inexpensive treatment with very little downtime still have a place in modern aesthetic practice? Laser expert David Cauger (2007) described IPL as ‘a jack of all trades and master of two’, as well as an excellent treatment for both ‘age spots’ and telangiectasia. However, he also reported that, for the majority of indications, most modern monochromatic lasers outperform IPL. Does IPL still have a useful place in the modern aesthetic setting, or have laser treatments taken over?
Do patients have a choice in anaesthesia and surgery?
Authors: Moor Chris
Published: January 2015

Patient choice is a long-held aspiration for many NHS stakeholders. From its inception, the role of the general practitioner (GP) has been central to patient choice, as a disseminator of information and in terms of choosing treatments and physicians. This article explores the current state of patient choice in relation to surgery and anaesthesia, drawing on the most contemporary research and current professional guidelines. It confirms that, despite the desire of those involved, patient choice in surgery is still confined to ‘where and when’ rather than ‘who and what’, and even this limited choice is not open to all. It also suggests that patient choice of anaesthetic is, in practice, similarly limited. It concludes that although the GP is still central to the choice process, there is a worrying level of preference misdiagnosis on the part of clinicians. Finally, it asks the question, ‘Do patients really want choice?’ or, with locality and convenience repeatedly cited as top priorities, do they just want their local hospital to be competent?
Mold and Decay Resistance of Thermally Modified Douglas-Fir Heartwood
Authors: Yan Li , Morrell Jeffrey J.
Published: January 2015

Most thermal modification studies have attempted to improve the durability of sapwood; however, it may be more fruitful to improve the durability of heartwood that already has some inherent durability. The effects of pretreatments with boron or glycerol coupled with thermal modification on resistance to mold growth and fungal degradation were examined for Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) heartwood, which is classified as moderately durable. Pretreatment with boron had marked effects on resistance to both mold and decay fungi, but the results were consistent with the well-known effects of this fungicide. Pretreatment with glycerol appeared to reduce mold resistance and had no effect on degradation by decay fungi. Thermal modification enhanced mold resistance with increasing temperature but had only a slight effect on decay resistance. These results suggest that thermal modification does not enhance performance to levels that meet North American durability requirements for aboveground, exterior exposures.
Antioxidant properties of flavonoids
Authors: Banjarnahor Sofna D.S. , Artanti Nina
Published: January 2015

Flavonoids represent a remarkable group of plant secondary metabolites and have long been used as traditional medicines with scientifically proven pharmacological benefits. They serve vast-ranging medicinal activities that may lead drug discovery with novel and potential therapeutic evidence. Latest research magnifies primarily functional activity of flavonoids as antioxidant against oxidative stress. This review enlightens the prospective role of flavonoids as antioxidant.
A year of transformation comes to its end
Authors: Freisleben Hans-Joachim
Published: January 2015

[No abstract available]
Effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. on insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) to prevent overtraining syndrome
Authors: Ilyas Ermita I.I. , Kartinah Neng T. , Andraini Trinovita , Goenarjo Roman A. , Kahandjak Donna N.
Published: January 2015

Background: Excessive physical exercises (overtraining) can increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). One of the indicators of overtraining syndrome is a decrease in insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3). Administration of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn., a powerful antioxidant, is expected to boost endogenous antioxidants, and thus prevents overtraining. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of H. sabdariffa on IGFBP-3 levels in rats under ”overtraining physical excersice”.Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 30 male rats (Rattus norvegicus 200-250 grams), randomly allocated into 5 groups: 1) control group (C); 2) control with H. sabdariffa (C-Hib); 3) mild aerobic exercise (A-Ex); 4) overtraining exercise (OT); 5) overtraining exercise with H. Sabdariffa (OT-Hib). H. sabdariffa (400 mg/kg/d, 11 weeks) were administered orally via syringe cannula. IGFBP-3 was measured by using ELISA (Cusa bio kit) and data were analyzed with ANOVA test.Results: Plasma level of IGFBP-3 in the C and OT groups were 17.4 ± 10 mIU/L, the lowest in OT groups (10.7 ± 9.9 mIU/L) and the OT-Hib group had the highest level (31.5 ± 6.2 mIU/L). There was significant difference of the level IGFBP-3 in OT groups with A-Ex groups (10.7 ± 9.9 vs 23.5 ± 9.7 mIU/L; p < 0,05). The significant difference was also observed in the level of IGFBP 3 between C groups and the OT-Hib groups (17.4 ± 10 vs 31.5 ± 6.2; p < 0.05).Conclusion: Administration of H. sabdariffa can prevent the decrease of IGFBP-3 levels in overtraining rats, indicating its role in preventing overtraining syndrome.
Extension of mathematical background for Nearest Neighbour Analysis in three-dimensional space
Authors: Stopková Eva
Published: January 2015

Proceeding deals with development and testing of the module for GRASS GIS [1], based on Nearest Neighbour Analysis. This method can be useful for assessing whether points located in area of interest are distributed randomly, in clusters or separately. The main principle of the method consists of comparing observed average distance between the nearest neighbours r A to average distance between the nearest neighbours r E that is expected in case of randomly distributed points. The result should be statistically tested. The method for two- or three-dimensional space differs in way how to compute r E . Proceeding also describes extension of mathematical background deriving standard deviation of r E , needed in statistical test of analysis result. As disposition of phenomena (e.g. distribution of birds’ nests or plant species) and test results suggest, anisotropic function would repre- sent relationships between points in three-dimensional space better than isotropic function that was used in this work.
Denoising of Laser Scanning Data Using Wavelet
Authors: Jašek Petr , Štroner Martin
Published: January 2015

Regarding the terrestrial laser scanning accuracy, one of the main problems is the noise in measured distance which is necessary for the spatial coordinates´ determination. In this paper the technique of using the wavelet transformation for the reduction of the noise in the laser scanning data is described. This method of filtration is made in “post processing” and due to this fact any changes in the measuring procedure in the field shouldn´t be done. The creation of the regular matrix is needed to apply image processing. This matrix then makes the range image. In the paper real and simulated efficiency tests of wavelet transformation, the final summary and advantages or disadvantages of this method are introduced.
Using Phenomenology To Understand Hallucinatory Experiences
Authors: Pienkos Elizabeth S.
Published: January 2015

This commentary responds to Shapiro, Bussing, and Nguyen’s (2014) case study of "Kate," a   16-year-old adolescent female who required psychiatric hospitalization for auditory hallucinations with secondary delusional thinking. I continue their discussion about the conceptualization of hallucinatory experiences in the context of an individual case, and the significance of this conceptualization for diagnosis and treatment.  In particular, this commentary summarizes contemporary research on the diverse manifestations of auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) and the difficulties with developing a meaningful classification system for these phenomena.  It then investigates one approach to understanding AVHs, philosophical phenomenology, and argues for the relevance of this approach in clarifying the formal features of a symptom and relating these in a meaningful way to the overall structure of the underlying pathology.  Finally, this commentary applies a phenomenological perspective to Kate’s particular symptomatology, and discusses the implications of its findings for treatment approaches with Kate and others who experience various forms of AVHs.
Free-living marine planktonic unarmoured dinoflagellates from the Gulf of Mexico and the Mexican Pacific
Authors: Escobar-Morales Sergio , Hernández-Becerril David U.
Published: January 2015

The so-called unarmoured dinoflagellates are not a “natural” (phylogenetic) group but they lack thecal plates, share fragility and possess relatively few morphological characters that can be positively identified. This study depicts the species composition of unarmoured dinoflagellates collected from sites along the coasts of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mexican Pacific and includes their descriptions and illustrations. We identified a total of 25 species belonging to 13 genera and six families that were studied through various techniques using light and scanning electron microscopy. Seven new records for the Mexican Pacific are annotated here that include Amphidinium flagelans Schiller, Gyrodinium cochlea Lebour, G. glaebum Hulburt, G. metum Hulburt, Karenia selliformis Haywood, Steidinger et MacKenzie, Karlodinium ballantinum de Salas, and K. veneficum (Ballantine) Larsen. The genera Karenia and Karlodinium belong to the family Kareniaceae, characterised for encompassing the largest number of toxic species among the unarmoured dinoflagellates, and many species produce algal blooms around the world. Ceratoperidinium falcatum and Levanderina fissa are names recently proposed elsewhere as new taxonomic combinations and are also included here. The diversity of unarmoured dinoflagellates has been strongly underestimated in the past and the new records reported here confirm this. Further studies, including traditional and modern concepts and protocols (including molecular tools), should be undertaken in the near future to understand their real diversity.
The Limits of Probabilistic Causality in Law
Authors: Cofone Ignacio N.
Published: January 2015

There is still controversy regarding what criterion to use to evaluate causality. The law & economics literature proposes the use of probabilistic causality as a superior criterion, suggesting the elimination of binary causality criteria. This led to explanations that violate our intuitions, fail to explain judicial decision-making, and are considered unjust. This paper proposes that neither binary nor probabilistic causality can provide a satisfactory answer for all scenarios. Probabilistic causality works well for general causal claims (types of claims centrally involved in rulemaking) while binary criteria perform better for single causal claims (types of claims commonly addressed by courts).
An introduction: Language Management Theory in Language Policy and Planning
Authors: Nekvapil Jiří , Sherman Tamah
Published: January 2015

In these introductory remarks, the authors deal with the metaphors “top-down”, “bottom-up” and related concepts in the Language Policy and Planning research. Furthermore, they sketch out the position of Language Management Theory in this field of study and characterize “language management” in various research traditions. Afterward, the main features of Language Management Theory are presented with emphasis placed on the relationship between “simple” and “organized” language management. Finally, these features are illustrated on the individual contributions to this special issue.
Spracherhalt als Prozess: Elemente des kirchlichen Sprachmanagements bei den katholischen Sorben
Authors: Kimura Goro Christoph
Published: January 2015

In contrast to language shift, language maintenance appears to be a static phenomenon. Yet this article displays language maintenance as a process, applying the Language Management Theory. On the ground of a case study at a Catholic Sorbian parish in eastern Germany, the study shows that the Sorbian language is maintained in the church through numerous minute interventions at different levels. The findings suggest that the actual process of language maintenance and shift is much more complex than the conventional dualism of “top-down” vs. “bottom-up” assumes. It is argued that in order to get a more reliable understanding of how language maintenance and shift is attained, it is necessary to pay due attention to the interplay of various processes between and within simple and organized management.
The management of language and power in intercultural contact situations in Japan
Authors: Fairbrother Lisa
Published: January 2015

This article examines how participants in intercultural contact situations in Japan manage deviations relating to language and power in their daily life interactions. Based on the management summaries of eight plurilingual residents of Japan, this study investigates how deviations relating to language and power are noted and evaluated and what adjustment strategies are implemented in such cases. The results suggest that the management of language and power is complex and a number of interests may be in conflict. Deviations relating to power may be evaluated both positively and negatively and a lack of language proficiency can actually be used as a powerful tool. It is argued that speaker identity is a crucial issue that influences how interactional problems will be managed.
Excuse my poor English: language management in English-language online discussion forums
Authors: Švelch Jaroslav
Published: January 2015

Using the framework of Language Management Theory (LMT), this article seeks to analyze the ways in which non-native speakers negotiate their position in English-language online discussion forums. Based on the material collected from four discussion forums, competing opinions have been identified regarding the acceptability of “bad English” and the need for language management, i.e. acting upon a perceived lack of compliance to linguistic norms. Some users propose that compliance to communication norms should be enforced in a top-down manner or based on an explicit set of rules, whereas others hold that the community of users can deal with potential communication problems individually in an emergent manner. While the applicability of native speaker norms to the discussion forums is being questioned, non-native speakers, especially in practically oriented forums, tend to perform pre-interaction language management, using disclaimers in their posts, such as “Excuse my poor English”, to avoid potential misunderstandings and to prevent native speaker norms from being applied to them. The article argues for the use of LMT in computer mediated communication research, as it offers a dynamic view of the process in which rules, conventions and norms of online communication are being continuously discussed, negotiated and applied.
Network-based interactive navigation and analysis of large biological datasets
Authors: Gerasch Andreas , Küntzer Jan , Niermann Peter , Stöckel Daniel , Kaufmann Michael , Kohlbacher Oliver , Lenhof Hans-Peter
Published: January 2015

Over the last decade, advances in high-throughput technologies
have resulted in a flood of new biological data. Here, individual
samples can extend up into terabyte size. While potential applications
are broad, ranging from biotechnology to medical applications, the
analysis of these datasets poses massive challenges.
In order to make use of the produced terabytes of data, these datasets need to
be integrated, need to be mapped onto existing biological knowledge,
and need to be explored by experts.

We present UniPAX and BiNA, a scalable system for the integration and analysis
of high-throughput data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and
metabolomics) in a network context. A central data warehouse holds the core
dataset. A flexible middleware can execute custom queries on this dataset and
communicate with our visual analytics tool BiNA, the Biological Network
Analyzer. We demonstrate how the combination of these tools permits an efficient
analysis of large-scale datasets for medical applications.
Developing Empirical Relationships to Predict Porosity and Microhardness of Atmospheric Plasma-Sprayed Alumina Coatings on AZ31B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Thirumalaikumarasamy D. , Shanmugam K. , Balasubramanian V.
Published: January 2015

Plasma-sprayed alumina coatings find wide-ranging applications by virtue of their inherent wear and corrosion resistance and attractive dielectric and diffusion barrier properties. In this work, empirical relationships were developed to predict the porosity and microhardness of alumina coatings by incorporating independently controllable atmospheric plasma-sprayed operational parameters (input power, stand-off distance and powder feed rate) using response surface methodology (RSM). A central composite rotatable design with three factors and five levels was chosen to minimize the number of experimental conditions. Within the scope of the design space, the input power and the stand-off distance appeared to be the most significant two parameters affecting the responses among the three investigated process parameters. A linear regression relationship was also established between porosity and microhardness of the alumina coatings.
Challenges in describing vitamin D status and activity / Herausforderungen bei der Bestimmung des Vitamin D-Status
Authors: Vogeser Michael , Bächer Silvia , Seger Christoph
Published: January 2015

Within a few years, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD)1 has emerged as a high volume test in many regions. Several analytical issues have been recognized regarding this analyte, in particular variable co-detection of metabolites (25-hydroxyvitamin D2; 3-epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D; 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D), variable release of the analyte from its protein bonds and matrix effects in automated ligand binding tests, contributing to an often unsatisfactory correlation of high-throughput assays with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Reference methods based on LC-MS/MS as well as reference materials have been introduced only very recently, achieving a truly significant improvement in the standardization of serum 25-OHD measurement. However, beyond these analytical issues in relation to 25-OHD, it should be scrutinized how biologically appropriate this inactive intermediate metabolite can actually describe vitamin D status as a surrogate marker – individually and at a population level. There is, for example, at present little knowledge regarding individual vitamin D requirement in relation to dietary calcium supply; the impact of genetic variation of vitamin D binding protein on serum concentrations; the impact of genetic variation in downstream metabolism and signaling of vitamin D on individual vitamin demand. Furthermore, there is no accepted approach to assess functional whole year vitamin D status, addressing the fundamental seasonal variation of endogenous generation of vitamin D in many regions. Consequently, additional functional markers should be considered when describing vitamin D status (parathyroid hormone, corrected serum calcium and phosphate, urinary calcium, well selected bone markers, etc.), with season-adapted sampling strategies. In conclusion, it should be recognized that there is substantial uncertainty in the currently used approach to characterize vitamin D status by singular measurement of 25-OHD using mainstream assays. It seems questionable to focus the worldwide debate on a widespread vitamin supplementation merely on cut-off results of this marker.
Neues aus der Hämatologischen Diagnostik1)
Authors: Haferlach Torsten
Published: January 2015

Die Entwicklungen im Bereich der hämatologischen Diagnostik sind in den letzten Jahren beeindruckend. Dies wird durch die Einführung neuer Techniken wie z.B. das sogenannte next generation sequencing (NGS) möglich und beschleunigt. Diese Technologien führen zu neuen Erkenntnissen, welche molekulargenetischen Veränderungen vielen benignen oder malignen hämatologischen Erkrankungen zu Grunde liegen. Dies gilt insbesondere für tiefgreifende molekulare Analysen von akuten Leukämien und ebenfalls bei den Myelodysplastischen Syndromen. Auch in der Charakterisierung der Lymphome wird die Klassifikation zunehmend molekular möglich. Ebenso ist bei der häufig notwendigen Abklärung von Anämien das Methodenspektrum erweitert und verbessert worden.
Update zum Therapeutic Drug Monitoring und zu pharmakogenetischen Untersuchungen zur Optimierung der Therapie mit Psychopharmaka
Authors: Rentsch Katharina M.
Published: January 2015

Das Therapeutic Drug Monitoring von Psychopharmaka wird in zahlreichen Laboratorien immer häufiger durchgeführt, ebenso wie pharmakogenetische Untersuchungen. In diesem Übersichtsartikel wurde die dazugehörige Literatur aus den Jahren 2011 und 2012 zusammengefasst. Die Guidelines der AGNP enthalten alle wichtigen Informationen, die notwendig sind, um Konzentrationen von Psychopharmaka richtig zu interpretieren. Die Bestimmung von Serotonin im Urin könnte ein Marker zur Beurteilung des Therapieerfolgs von Antidepressiva darstellen. Mit Hilfe der Positronen-Emissions-Tomographie konnten Korrelationen zwischen der Belegung der Zielrezeptoren im Gehirn und der Medikamentenkonzentration ermittelt werden. Der Einfluss des Alters auf die Medikamentenkonzentrationen wurde kontrovers beschrieben, wohingegen Frauen in allen Arbeiten bei einigen Antidepressiva einen verlangsamten Metabolismus und erhöhte Serumkonzentrationen aufwiesen. In mehreren Publikationen wurden Multianalytenverfahren für die Bestimmung von Psychopharmaka beschrieben, die trotz unterschiedlicher Methoden sehr gute Validierungsresultate aufwiesen. Bei allen Methoden gibt es einige Substanzen, deren Validationsresultate nur knapp genügten, was auf die Tatsache zurückgeführt werden muss, dass bei Multianalytenverfahren nicht alle Analyten optimal nachgewiesen werden können. Pharmakogenetische Untersuchungen haben noch keinen festen Platz bei der Verordnung von Psychopharmaka. Dies beruht unter anderem auf dem Fehlen von Evidenz-basierten Daten aus großen randomisierten Studien und dem Fehlen von entsprechend standardisierten analytischen Methoden, die die gesamte genetische Variabilität nachweisen können.
Umfrage zur Laborberatung in Deutschland
Authors: Döbele Manuel , Schmitz Carolin , Ernst Christian , Orth Matthias , Shipkova Maria , Wieland Eberhard
Published: January 2015

Der steigende ökonomische Druck im Gesundheitssystem ruft Berater auf den Plan. Hiervon ist auch das medizinische Laboratorium nicht ausgenommen. In Deutschland gibt es ca. 30 Unternehmen, die eine Laborberatung anbieten. Ob Berater den Laboratorien tatsächlich einen Mehrwert liefern, wer die Berater sind und welche Qualifikation sie besitzen, ist bisher noch nicht systematisch untersucht worden. Die AG Labormanagement der Deutschen Vereinten Gesellschaft für Klinische Chemie und Laboratoriumsmedizin (DGKL) hat deshalb in Kooperation mit dem Lehrstuhl für Ökonomik und Management sozialer Dienstleistungen, Institut für Health Care & Public Management der Universität Hohenheim in Stuttgart im Jahr 2012 eine Online-Umfrage zur Laborberatung in Deutschland durchgeführt, an der hauptsächlich Leiter von Krankenhaus- und Universitätslaboratorien teilgenommen haben (72%; n=58). Der Fragebogen wurde insgesamt von 163 Personen angesehen. Das Ziel der Befragung bestand in einer Gegenüberstellung der Ansprüche der Laborleiter und den tatsächlichen Erfahrungen mit einer Laborberatung. Das Ergebnis der Befragung stellt den Beratern kein gutes Zeugnis aus. Die Unzufriedenheit mit den Beratungen war groß (70%). Die wichtigsten Gründe hierfür waren die Beauftragung durch Dritte (83%), die Erhebung der Laborleistungsdaten nach Papierlage (79%), deren Bewertung anhand von beraterspezifischen Kennzahlen (69%) und die mangelnde Zusammenarbeit mit dem Laborpersonal (41%). Ein weiteres Problem stellte die mangelnde Qualifikation der Berater sowie die Handlungsempfehlungen dar, die meist nur aus Einsparmaßnahmen bestanden. Die Zahlungsbereitschaft für Beratungsleistungen war entsprechend gering ausgeprägt. Auf der anderen Seite halten aber immerhin 50% der befragten Laborleiter eine Beratung grundsätzlich für sinnvoll. Beachtet ein Laborberatungsunternehmen somit die durch diese Umfrage aufgedeckten Defizite, besteht die Chance für eine erfolgreiche Zusammenarbeit zwischen Laboratorien und Beratern.
Bedeutung und Diagnostik von Kryoproteinen
Authors: Nebe Thomas , Stamminger Gudrun , Baum Hannsjörg , Ossendorf Manfred , Wittmann Georg
Published: January 2015

Kryoproteine werden immer noch in hohem Maße unterdiagnostiziert, obwohl sie von besonderer klinischer Relevanz sind. Kryoglobuline, Kryofibrinogen bzw. Kälteantikörper haben eine deutliche Assoziation zu Autoimmunerkrankungen bzw. Non-Hodgkin-Lymphomen. Die Bestimmung ist einfach, aber die präanalytischen Voraussetzungen sind eine Herausforderung. Der Artikel fasst die wesentlichen Aspekte kurz zusammen um diese Situation zu verbessern.
Hämatologische Labordiagnostik bei Thrombozyten
Authors: Nebe Thomas
Published: January 2015

Die hämatologische Labordiagnostik von Thrombozyten weist eine Reihe von technischen Schwierigkeiten auf und stellt besondere Anforderungen an die Präanalytik. Auch der Umgang mit Aggregationsphänomenen wirft in der täglichen Routine immer wieder Fragen auf. Der Artikel fasst den gegenwärtigen Stand der Thrombozytenzählung zusammen und der notwendigen Differentialdiagnostik.
Box-Behnken design in modeling of solid-phase tea waste extraction for the removal of uranium from water samples
Authors: Khajeh Mostafa , Bohlooli Mousa , Jahanbin Elham , Ghaffari-Moghaddam Mansour , Moghaddam Zahra Safaei
Published: January 2015

In this study, the solid-phase tea waste procedure was used for separation, preconcentration and determination of uranium from water
samples by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. In addition, Box-Behnken experimental design was employed to investigated the influence of six
variables including pH, mass of adsorbent, eluent volume, amount of 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN); and sample and eluent flow rates
on the extraction of analyte. High determination coefficient (R
2) of 0.972 and adjusted-R
2 of 0.943 showed the satisfactory
adjustment of the polynomial regression model. This method was used for the extraction of uranium from real water samples.
Inference for one-step beneficial mutations using next generation sequencing
Authors: Wojtowicz Andrzej J. , Miller Craig R. , Joyce Paul
Published: January 2015

Experimental evolution is an important research method that allows for the study of evolutionary processes occurring in microorganisms. Here we present a novel approach to experimental evolution that is based on application of next generation sequencing. Under this approach population level sequencing is applied to an evolving population in which multiple first-step beneficial mutations occur concurrently. As a result, frequencies of multiple beneficial mutations are observed in each replicate of an experiment. For this new type of data we develop methods of statistical inference. In particular, we propose a method for imputing selection coefficients of first-step beneficial mutations. The imputed selection coefficient are then used for testing the distribution of first-step beneficial mutations and for estimation of mean selection coefficient. In the case when selection coefficients are uniformly distributed, collected data may also be used to estimate the total number of available first-step beneficial mutations.