bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fade Duration Based Neighbor Cell List Optimization for Handover in Femtocell Networks
Authors: Gebremichail Aklilu Assefa , Beard Cory
Published: March 2017

In a dense femtocell network, beyond co-tier and cross-tier interference mitigation, handover femtocell- femtocell and macrocell-femtocell is a major challenge. In order to perform successful handover, avoiding the scanning of a large neighbor list and shortening the handover period is required to identify the optimal neighbor. In this paper, a neighbor cell list optimization method based on fade duration along with an algorithm for open and hybrid femtocell networks is proposed. The proposed method considers fade duration outage probability (FDOP), distance between femtocell access points, and the operating frequency as benchmarks for optimization of the neighbor list selection process. FDOP determines a duration beyond which a connection is considered in an outage state. The simulation results based on this proposed method also show an improvement over previously proposed methods that create neighboring lists based on received signal and signal-to-noise ratio. Fade duration based optimization provides a much better prediction of traffic performance.
A Computational Study of Perfusion During the ExtraCorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Authors: Caruso Maria Vittoria , Gramigna Vera , Renzulli Attilio , Fragomeni Gionata
Published: March 2017

The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a common procedure of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) used in case of cardiopulmonary diseases. The major clinical complications are related to hemodynamic changes and to the mechanical shear stress. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of the modality of perfusion during ECMO, comparing the hemodynamic behavior generated by constant flow (normal modality) with the one obtained by pulsed perfusion induced by the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). To carry out the study, the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) approach was chosen, realizing a multi-scale model. The numerical results have highlighted that the IABP-induced pulsed perfusion increases both flow and pressure in the supraaortic vessels, even if the balloon makes the wall shear stress (WSS) pattern and the hemolysis index worse.
Automated Domain-Specific Feature Selection for Classification-based Segmentation of Tomographic Medical Image Data
Authors: Zwettler Gerald , Backfrieder Werner
Published: March 2017

Classification-based segmentation is an approach to establish generic analysis of medical image data. Significant feature sets covering different characteristics of regions to segment allow for robust discrimination of topologically defined classes. In this work a method for automated domain-specific feature selection to achieve a higher level of predictability is presented, incorporating multivariate feature analysis. For calculation of the probability density function, different approaches, like histogram analysis, enumeration of the entire feature space or umbrella Monte Carlo Integration are investigated. Furthermore, meta features calculated on entire classification results rather than on particular regions are introduced. Predictability of both, single local and meta features, is evaluated for different medical datasets as well for simulated intensity volumes, allowing testing and evaluating specific classification problems. The automated feature selection proofs to be accurate for classification-based segmentation utilizing well-known machine learning approaches.
Efficacy of a Domestic Simulator for Training in Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Frascio M. , Sguanci M. , Minuto M. , Casaccia M. , Mandolfino F.
Published: March 2017

To present the University of Genoa Advanced Simulation Center (SimAv) and the project of a trainer (eLap4D) that would achieve the equivalent goals of the fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery trainer at an economical cost. The validation process is going to be shown too. METHODS. The laparoscopic trainer is a physical low-cost laparoscopic training platform that reproduces the tactile feedback (eLaparo4d) integrated with a software for virtual anatomical realistic scenarios (Unity3D V 4.1). A sample of 20 students was selected, divided into 2 homogeneous groups with respect to the level of confidence with the use of video games, consoles, smartphones (this has been possible thanks to the use of a questionnaire, administered before the practical phase of training). The groups participated in a training program based on 5 basic laparoscopic skills (laparoscopic focusing and navigation, hand – eye – coordination and grasp coordination). So, a second and a third study sample was chosen, consisting of 20 post graduate students (intermediate group) and 20 experienced surgeons; for these groups a training program was provided, identical to the previous group as well as their subdivision into 2 group. The face validity was used for an ergonomic analysis of the simulator, the construct to test the system's ability to differentiate potential expert users (experienced surgeons) from non-experts (student without experience in laparoscopic surgery). The authors analyzed the results of the three samples obtained by comparing variables such as score, % of fulfillment, panality and time. At the same time, the students' improvements have been monitored, developing a customized learning curve for each user. To evaluate the structural characteristics of the simulator a specific questionnaire has been used. The results were encouraging. The simulator is ergonomically satisfactory and its structural features are adapted to the training. The system was able to differentiate the level of experience and also has therefore met the requirements of “construct validity”. laparoscopic simulators can be constructed at an economical cost.
Toward seamless hydrologic predictions across scales
Authors: Samaniego Luis , Kumar Rohini , Thober Stephan , Rakovec Oldrich , Zink Matthias , Wanders Niko , Eisner Stephanie , Müller Schmied Hannes , Sutanudjaja Edwin H. , Warrach-Sagi Kirsten , Attinger Sabine
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Land surface and hydrologic models (LSM/HM) are used at diverse spatial resolutions ranging from 1–10 km in catchment-scale applications to over 50 km in global-scale applications. Application of the same model structure at different spatial scales requires that the model estimates similar fluxes independent of the model resolution and fulfills a flux-matching condition across scales. An analysis of state-of-the-art LSMs and HMs reveals that most do not have consistent and realistic parameter fields for land surface geophysical properties. Multiple experiments with the mHM, Noah-MP, PCR-GLOBWB and WaterGAP models are conducted to demonstrate the pitfalls of poor parameterization practices currently used in most operational models, which are insufficient to satisfy the flux-matching condition. These examples demonstrate that J. Dooge's 1982 statement on the unsolved problem of parameterization in these models remains true. We provide a short review of existing parameter regionalization techniques and discuss a method for obtaining seamless hydrological predictions of water fluxes and states across multiple spatial resolutions. The multiscale parameter regionalization (MPR) technique is a practical and robust method that provides consistent (seamless) parameter and flux fields across scales. A general model protocol is presented to describe how MPR can be applied to a specific model, with an example of this application using the PCR-GLOBWB model. Applying MPR to PCR-GLOBWB substantially improves the flux-matching condition. Estimation of evapotranspiration without MPR at 5 arcmin and 30 arcmin spatial resolutions for the Rhine river basin results in a difference of approximately 29 %. Applying MPR reduce this difference to 9 %. For total soil water, the differences without and with MPR are 25 % and 7 %, respectively.
O PLANEJAMENTO ESTRATÉGICO E O CONCEITO DE PERFORMANCE PROCESS NA GESTÃO DAS ARTES
Authors: Duarte Valquíria Guimarães
Published: March 2017

Uma das questões atuais na discussão sobre gestão das ações de cunho artístico está na problemática que envolve metodologias de criação e realização dos diversos tipos de propostas, sejam elas de espetáculos performativos (teatro, dança), sejam de espetáculos de natureza expositiva (exposições de arte, museais ou não – cabendo aqui todo tipo de manifestações que ocupam um espaço da galeria, teatro, museu ou cidade). Sabendo que o planejamento estratégico tem sido um campo de debates frutíferos na área da arquitetura, e tendo como exemplo experiências exploradas em países diversos (no Brasil, um empreendimento fomentado há pouco tempo), voltamo-nos a uma interlocução entre os campos da Arquitetura/construção civil e da Arte para embasar nossa proposta: trazer a experiência de Gestão Estratégica da área da Arquitetura para o campo da Arte. Gestar e gerir ações artísticas, dar forma e realizá-las preservando ao máximo os desejos do autor são os elementos “chave” desse artigo. Nesse sentido, buscamos na Gestão Estratégica uma metodologia possível para a otimização de ações artísticas – e, de passagem, aproveitamos a exploração do conceito no conhecimento do processo, para uma hermenêutica/crítica. Para tanto, apoiamo-nos no conceito de Performance Process (DUARTE, 2013) como base para nosso empreendimento
Jogando com o Cômico: Relato, Experiência e Caminhos de uma Pesquisa
Authors: Franco Elison Oliveira
Published: March 2017

O cômico tem sido motivo de debates e composições de distintas teorias no campo das Artes Cênicas, seja como gênero teatral, fenômeno social ou filosofia pedagógica, estética e cultural. Assim, por meio da experiência que teve na Escola do Ator Cômico, em Curitiba, Paraná, o autor busca tratar e delinear, nesta escrita, não apenas as suas formulações, como ainda as suas relações com o jogo, elemento que pode contribuir vigorosamente na manifestação cênica do cômico, considerando o contexto e a abordagem artístico-pedagógica planejada metodologicamente para tal finalidade.
A Performance para o Riso: a Comicidade na Quasar Cia. de Dança a Partir de “Por Instantes de Felicidade” (2008)
Authors: Silva Michael , Correia Paulo Petronilio
Published: March 2017

Este artigo analisa duas cenas do espetáculo de comemoração dos vinte anos da Quasar Cia. de dança, intitulado Por Instantes de Felicidade (2008), para detalhar seu marcante traço de comicidade e como esse aspecto composicional e cênico foi um dos grandes responsáveis por impulsionar a companhia em cenário nacional e internacional. O intuito final deste trabalho, fruto de parcela das reflexões de minha pesquisa de mestrado, se centra em discutir como esse elemento cênico reiterado nos espetáculos da companhia expõe uma problemática frequente da dança contemporânea: Ela é sempre o novo? As considerações levantadas para responder esta questão têm como principais norteadores as discussões nos campos de performance e dança contemporânea.
Number and Gender Assignment to loanwords in Arabic: Implications from Varieties
Authors: Hamdi Sami
Published: March 2017

Number and gender are two of the core grammatical categories in Arabic. The assignment of number and gender to foreign words is an area of conflict between MSA and other Arabic varieties. This paper investigates the factors that stand behind the seemingly irregularity of number and gender assignment in Arabic. It appears that speakers follow a form standardized by MSA or enforce another form following their dialects and community conventions. This variation in number and gender assignment to loans gives rise to multiple competing forms that may not be recognized by MSA or some other varieties of Arabic. Yet, the findings demonstrate consistency in assigning number and gender to loans by applying native patterns motivated by frequency of use andthe semantics of the referents.
“And of that drynke the Cook was wonder fayn”: A Reconsideration of Hogge of Ware's Drunkenness
Authors: Purdon Liam O.
Published: March 2017

While the nineteenth-century identification of Hogge of Ware as a drunkard continues to be a critical commonplace, consideration of what is said about him in the General Prologue, in his prologue and tale, and in the Manciple's Prologue suggests he may actually be more a victim of illness than of the grape. Easily forgotten is his palate's sensitivity to taste differences between London ales, his disapproval of Perkyn Revelour's tavern frequenting, and his reputation as a cook, a reputation that convinced five parish guild members to hire him for the Canterbury pilgrimage. His apparent lack of an aggressive personal hygiene, which may have resulted in the mormal on his shin, is exacerbated by lack of medical attention given to the lesion during the several days' journey on the road. The disease process of this unattended cutaneous distemper may explain such later symptoms as debilitating fatigue, seizure, rheum and sneezing, and fever-induced thirst.
Wh-questions in Singapore English tell us what about questions with declarative syntax?
Authors: Sato Yosuke , Ngui Jian Gang
Published: March 2017

Bobaljik & Wurmband (2015) have recently developed a hypothesis that no language truly mixes wh-movement and wh-in-situ structures in its syntax, with seemingly optional wh-in-situ in a wh-movement language being analyzed as a question with declarative syntax. In this paper, we will present novel data from Colloquial Singapore English (CSE) which question this hypothesis. Instead of assuming that the Q-feature of the interrogative CWH head in a language must be specified in a binary manner (valued or unvalued), we will propose that this feature is underspecified in languages such as CSE. The proposed amendment is not only sufficiently restrictive to cover the type of languages predicted by B&W’s original hypothesis, but also flexible enough to accommodate languages with a mixed wh-system. We will further argue that contact-based explanations, though plausible, do not have to be taken as a reason for CSE to develop this specific trait, which could have developed under independent, non-contact situations. This position is supported by Malay and Ancash Quechua, two non-contact languages which nonetheless exhibit optional wh-in-situ like CSE.
Effectiveness of Read-aloud Instruction on Motivation and Learning Strategy among Japanese College EFL Students
Authors: Shinozuka Katsumasa , Shibata Setsue , Mizusawa Yumiko
Published: March 2017

Poor English performance among Japanese college EFL students has often been explained by grammar-translation and lecture-memorization instruction. This study investigated the effectiveness of a recently designed teaching method, namely, “The read-aloud instruction package,” which consists of four major activities: Slash/chunked reading practice (S/CRP), repeated read-aloud practice (RRAP), cloze test, and simultaneous read-aloud and write-out practice (SRAWOP). The study also examined how EFL college students’ motivation to learn English and their choice of EFL learning strategies changed after intensive three-month’ instruction using these methods. Thirty-two participants with an elementary level of English proficiency completed a pretest and posttest using the TOEIC Bridge®, Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) and a motivation survey. Results indicated that the participants’ score on the posttests on the TOEIC Bridge® improved significantly, but no change was found in their motivation. As to EFL learning strategy, the study found that the participants used more mental processes but less learning with others strategy after the instruction. The article discusses some possible explanations of the effectiveness of the read-aloud instruction package from cognitive and neuro-linguistic perspectives.
A Family of Left Lie Bol Loops
Authors: Bulut Alper
Published: March 2017

In this paper the left Bol split extension method is used to build left Bol Lie loops from the Lie groups $H$ and $K$ such that $H$ is a Lie subgroup of $Aut(K)$. Furthermore, we investigated some of the properties of those loops constructed in this way. Examples are given for finite and infinite dimensional left Bol Lie loops. Moreover, we showed that the twisted semidirect product of Lie algebras is an Akivis algebra.
Products of Reflections and Triangularization of Bilinear Forms
Authors: Helmstetter Jacques
Published: March 2017

The present article is motivated by the theorem of Cartan-Dieudonn\'e which states that every orthogonal transformation is a product of reflections. Its purpose is to determine, for each orthogonal transformation, the minimal number of factors in a decomposition into a product of reflections, and to propose an effective algorithm giving such a decomposition. With the orthogonal transformations $g$ of a quadratic space $(V,q)$, it associates couples $(S,\phi)$ where $S$ is a subspace of $V$, and $\phi$ an non-degenerate bilinear form on $S$ such that $\phi(y,y)=q(y)$ for every $y$ in $S$. In general, the minimal decompositions of $g$ into a product of reflections correspond to the bases of $S$ in which the matrix of $\phi$ is lower triangular. Therefore, we need an algorithm of triangularization of bilinear forms. Affine isometries are also taken into consideration.
Use of dynamic clothes in cerebral palsy rehabilitation: systematic review
Authors: Weinert Luciana Vieira Castilho , Neves Eduardo Borba
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The intensive physical therapy program using dynamic clothing and elastic cords is an innovative approach in pediatric neurology physiotherapy area. Objective: To analyze the benefits of using dynamic clothes in intensive physical therapy protocols in patients with cerebral palsy. Methods: Electronic databases were used retrospectively without date restriction, in English, Portuguese and Spanish. The search focused on studies to document the use of intensive physical therapy protocols with the clothes on PC. Results: 14 studies were reviewed 6 narrative reviews, 1 systematic review, 6 clinical trials and one case study. It was not possible to group the results due to the diversity of protocols, the characteristics of the participants and the instruments used. Conclusion: All analysed studies reported improvement in gross motor control of patients, however, it is suggested the realization of double blind randomized and controlled clinical trials to prove the benefits of intensive physiotherapy programs with dynamic clothes.
Efeitos da magnetoterapia no tratamento da dor na osteoartrose de joelho
Authors: Silva Rodrigo Marcel Valentim da , Xavier William Jefferson Cordeiro , Dantas Neto Rivaldo Garcia , Azevedo Vinícius Medeiros de , Nascimento Bruno Jardel Rego do , Oliveira Johnatas Fernandes de , Meyer Patrícia Froes
Published: March 2017

Introdução: A osteoartrose de joelho é caracterizada pela presença de dor. A magnetoterapia é um recurso utilizado para alívio de dor. Objetivo: O objetivo desse estudo foi investigar os efeitos da magnetoterapia no tratamento da dor em pacientes com osteoartrose de joelho. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa experimental, na qual foram selecionados 2 grupos de 10 voluntários, com diagnóstico clínico de OA. Foram submetidos à 7 semanas de intervenção, G1 associado a um programa de exercícios terapêuticos e G2 com o programa de exercícios associados a magnetoterapia. A avaliação foi realizada através “Western Ontario and McMaster Universities” (WOMAC), do “Timed up and go" (TUG) e da escala analógica (EVA). Resultados: Observou-se que o estudo apresentou diferença estática significativa entre as variáveis *p
Nocturia and others urinary symptoms in three stages of postpartum according mode of delivery
Authors: Angelo Priscylla Helouyse Melo , Matias Monayane Grazielly Leite , Azevedo Maria Aneilma Ribeiro de , Almeida Luzinete Medeiros de , Cabral Micussi Maria Thereza Albuquerque Barbosa
Published: March 2017

Introduction: There are risk factors causing urinary symptoms associated with childbirth. The aim was to investigate the presence of urinary symptoms in postpartum. Methods: Prospective cohort study was undertaken. The women were evaluated three times. The first interview was face-to-face at 2 days after the childbirth. At 2 and 8 weeks after delivery, the patients were interviewed by telephone. Results: 132 women were divided into two groups according to the mode of delivery: VG (vaginal delivery group) and CG (cesarean group). The average age of the women was 25.54 (±5.65) years in VG and 25.23 (±5.26) years in CG (p = 0.869). The most frequent symptom in both groups was nocturia. Conclusion: urinary symptoms tend to worsen throughout the postpartum period, regardless of the mode of delivery.
Destreinamento em mesatenistas adolescentes
Authors: Miodutzki Anderson , Souza William Cordeiro de , Grzelczak Marcos Tadeu , Lima Valderi Abreu de , Mascarenhas Luis Paulo Gomes
Published: March 2017

Objetivo: Avaliar a redução do rendimento físico em mesatenistas adolescentes. Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por 14 mesatenistas com idade de 14,3±2,8 anos. Coletou-se a massa corporal e a estatura, para cálculo do IMC. Para a obtenção das capacidades motoras/físicas foram utilizados os instrumentos padronizados pela PROESP BRASIL. Os testes realizaram-se no período competitivo e uma nova bateria de teste foi aplicada após o recesso de treinamento dos atletas. Na análise dos dados utilizou-se a estatística descritiva (média, desvio padrão e percentual) e o teste t de Student foi utilizado para a comparação entre os períodos. Adotou-se um nível de significância de p
Efeito agudo da ingestão de cafeína no desempenho da força em mulheres destreinadas
Authors: Silva Harrison Vinicius Amaral da , Gantois Petrus , Lima Arthur Oliveira Pereira de , Oliveira Gledson Tavares de Amorim , Lima Cesar Augusto Xavier de , Paes Pedro Pinheiro
Published: March 2017

Introdução: A ingestão da cafeína se tornou um importante e popular recurso ergogênico entre diversas populações que visam a otimização do treinamento físico. Objetivo: Verificar o efeito agudo da cafeína no desempenho da força máxima em mulheres. Métodos: 20 mulheres com idade média de 20,3 ± 1,7 anos, sem experiência prévia em treinamento com pesos, distribuídas em dois grupos (G1= cafeína; G2= placebo). Foi avaliada a força muscular através do teste de uma repetição máxima. Resultados: Após a ingestão da cafeína, houve aumento da carga absoluta para o exercício supino reto (sem cafeína = 37,8 + 5,28; cafeína = 39,2 + 6.05; p=0,45), não sendo observado aumento no desempenho para o exercício leg press 45º e para o grupo placebo nos dois exercícios. Conclusão: A cafeína como recurso ergogênico aumentou o desempenho no teste da força máxima para o supino reto, porém não alterou no exercício leg press 45º.
Role of the music therapy in neurorehabilitation of patients with disorders of consciousness – looking for rules of evidence based practice
Authors: Komendziński T. , Mikołajewska E. , Mikołajewski D. , Dreszer J. , Bałaj B.
Published: March 2017

Neurological early and long-term rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the therapy of patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) such as unresponsive wakefulness syndrome or minimally conscious state. Neuroscience tries to explain the effect of music therapy on all levels of the nervous system = activity in patients with DOC, but full understanding is still incomplete. This paper attempts to answer how current clinical outcomes may reflect the influence of various factors including music's capacity. Based on their interdisciplinary perspective and previous experiences, the authors try to investigate the extent to which current occupations have been explored. The authors analyzed the literature data concerning the results of the studies published until the first half of 2016, to sum up the current state of research. Research in the main databases: PubMed, PEDro, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition was made using specified keywords and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Next, the authors sorted them all out into a coherent view of the current state. Music listening may constitute a part of an enriched environment setting. However, due to weak evidence, the therapeutic value of music-based interventions in patients with DOC is uneven or limited. The role of music therapy is thus complementary. Standardized clinical settings, protocols, and behavioral measures should be developed to increase its clinical validity, reliability, sensitivity, and objectivity. There is a reasonable hypothesis that music may produce a high level of diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes as stimuli usually reflecting strong personal meaning in patients with DOC.
Critical swim speed and metabolic activities in trained male and female swimmers after 400 m free style swimming with their full effort
Authors: Chatterjee P. , Nandy P. , Chakraborty S. , Bandyopadhyay A.
Published: March 2017

Purpose: This study was done to ascertain gender dif ferences in trained swimmers between their Critical S wim Speed (CSS). Certain metabolic responses, imme diately after 400 meters free style swimming (FSS), w ith maximum effort, were also studied. Methods: The analysis was conducted in trained swi mmers between 12- 18 years age. Height, weight, bod y fat quantity were estimated using standard techniqu es. CSS was measured for each swimmer. Blood samp les were taken within two minutes of 400 meters FSS, with maximum efforts. The blood creatinine, lactic ac id, serum calcium, serum urea and serum urea nitroge n were estimated using standard laboratory methods. Results: With the maximal effort of 400 meters FSS, values of hematological variables for both sexes were found to increase many folds than reference values. Si gnificant (p<0.05) gender differences were observed in CSS and blood creatinine. The positive significant (p<0.05) correlation was found between CSS and heig ht in the swimmers. For trained male swimmers signif icant positive correlations among CSS, blood urea an d serum urea nitrogen were found. Conclusions: This study reflects metabolic status of b oth trained male and female swimmers, after their full efforts. Besides blood creatinine no significant differe nces were observed in them. So it may conclude that e ffective physical training minimizes the metabolic de mands during their full efforts and gender differences could be overcome.
Life’s quality of chronically dialyzed children in Poland
Authors: Juzyszyn A. , Kunecka D. , Musiał B.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The paper presents the possibility of
assessing the quality of life (QOL) of children on
dialysis.
Purpose: To evaluate the QOL depending on the
health status of children on dialysis, to compare the
subjective assessment of the QOL and to identify
some of the factors independently affecting the
QOL.
Materials and methods: The study has been
conducted on a group of 28 children on dialysis.
Research tools: Poland abbreviated version of the
survey assessing the quality of life of The World
Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL);
survey constructed on the basis of the Polish
version of Kidney Disease and Quality of LifeTM
Short Form (KDQOL-SFTM) Version 1.2 and a
questionnaire assessing QOL of children and
adolescents with end-stage renal disease on dialysis
and transplantation of kidneys by Rubik, Grenda,
Jakubowska - Winecka and Dabrowska.
Results: There were no significant differences in
QOL between children treated with peritoneal
dialysis and Hemodialisis (HD). While there is a
strong correlation between the severity of
depressive symptoms and the treatment's duration,
financial status and parents' education.
Conclusions: The phenomenon of reduced QOL
must be counteracted. Medical pediatric staff of
dialyze centers should especially pay attention to
the problem of life’s quality, due to the intensity of
disease’s impact on growing organism, should
actively counteract the phenomena of its decrease
by continuous therapeutic education of patient and
his or her family.
Opinions and attitudes of students of public health to the issues
of transplantation medicine
Authors: Boratyński W. , Mularczyk P. , Sarnacka E.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The first organ transplant was
carried out by the team of Dr. Joseph Murray. In
Poland, the team led by Zbigniew Religa carried
out the first heart transplantation on November
5,1982.
Materials and methods: The study was conducted
among students of Public Health Faculty of Health
Sciences at the Medical University of Warsaw
(MUW) and the Faculty of Health Science at the
Medical University of Bialystok (MUB) among
students of three years of bachelor’s degree and two
years of master’s degree. Test method was a
diagnostic survey. We used a questionnaire
compiled by the authors of the publication,
containing 21 questions, and in five of them the 5-
degree Likert’s scale was used.
Results: When asked about promoting the procurement
and transplantation of organs from the
deceased 74.3% of students from both universities
answered definitely yes, 22.2% - rather yes. When
asked if in the event of death they would agree to be
a donor 64.2% said definitely yes, 26.3% - rather
yes, 8.7% - hard to say. 48.5% of respondents from
MUW and 42.4% from MUB spoke to their
relatives about their decision whether or not to
remove organs after death.
Conclusions: The analysis of the study shows high
acceptability of transplantation medicine in terms of
saving lives, however, the desire to donate one’s
own organs after death or acceptance of organ
donation after death of loved ones is far from the
overall acceptability
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor therapy for facioscapulohumeral dystrophy: a case report
Authors: Sienkiewicz D. , Kułak W. , Okurowska-Zawada B. , Paszko-Patej G. , Wojtkowski J. , Dmitruk E. , Okulczyk K. , Sochoń K. , Kalinowska A. , Żak J. , Pogorzelski R.
Published: March 2017

We examined the safety and effectiveness of a low dose of analog granulocyte-colony stimulating factor in a 15-year-old boy with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy. The onset of disease was noted at 12 years of age. The physical examination noted general muscle atrophy more pronounced at left side of the body. He was able to walk 300 meters within 6 minute walk test. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor 5 μg/kg was given subcutaneously daily for 5 days/month for 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 months. Clinical examination, laboratory tests including blood, biochemical tests, and CD34+ cells were performed. A significant increase of muscle strength in the lower and upper limbs between baseline, and after 3 months of treatment, after 6, and after 12 months was found. He was able to walk 480 meters within 6 minutes after 12 months. Electromyography demonstrated increase of amplitude in the examined in upper and lower limbs after six months compared to baseline. Leukocyte levels remained below 25000/μL. CD34+ increased significantly at day 5 of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor admini-stration. It was safe and well tolerated by the patient. A significant increase in muscle strength in this patient with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy after 3 months of treatment, after 6, and after 12 months since the first treatment course was completed may indicate beneficial effects of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in this disorder.
The keyed-hash message authentication code (HMAC)
Authors:   National Institute of Standards and Technology (US)
Published: March 2017

This Standard describes a keyed-hash message authentication code (HMAC), a mechanism for message authentication using cryptographic hash functions. HMAC can be used with any iterative Approved cryptographic hash function, in combination with a shared secret key. [Supersedes FIPS 198 (March 2002)]
Un filet de sécurité sociale troué : la métaphore de la courtepointe pour raconter des histoires de femmes débrouillardes vivant en situation de pauvreté et qui doivent composer avec une santé fragile
Authors: Savoie Lise , Albert Hélène , Lanteigne Isabel
Published: March 2017

Cet article présente des résultats d’une recherche qualitative sur la santé des femmes vivant en situation de pauvreté en régions rurales francophones du Nouveau-Brunswick. C’est à partir de la métaphore de la courtepointe que les auteures ont étudié les contextes dans lesquels les femmes rencontrées développent des stratégies de prise en charge de leur santé. Les résultats soulèvent des enjeux d’ordres collectif et politique, puisque la pauvreté chez les femmes ne constitue pas un problème individuel. Il s’agit d’un phénomène social qui commande des actions structurelles dans un contexte où le filet de sécurité sociale est troué.
Literary Translation and Cultural Challenges: JhumpaLahiri's The Namesake
Authors: Khrais Sura M.
Published: March 2017

This paper discusses how the nature of literary translation differs from other forms of translation by looking at practical difficulties and challenges notable in the Arabic translation of Lahiri's novel The Namesake (2003). The difficulties discussed are cultural differences which have created “untranslatable” cultural-bound words and phrases, as well as specialized vocabulary. The paper explores the conflict between the translator's duty to accuracy and his/her duty to literary translation as an art form. One problem faced by the prose-translator is finding terms in his or her own language that are faithful as much as possible to the meaning of certain words in S.L. For example, there are words which describe specific rituals or those related to typical architecture, fabrics, and cookery; these and many others represent the specific culture of the original text and the translator needs to be careful when translating them. The researcher finally suggests that there is a need to expand the perimeters of  translation studies specially those dealing with literary prose because the translators and researchers lay more emphasis on the translation of poetry.
Two‐layered oceanic lithospheric mantle in a Tibetan ophiolite produced by episodic subduction of Tethyan slabs
Authors: Xiong Qing , Griffin William L. , Zheng Jian‐Ping , Pearson Norman J. , O'Reilly Suzanne Y.
Published: March 2017

The origin and evolution of the Yarlung Zangbo ophiolites (South Tibet, China) is the key to the tectonics of the Neo‐Tethyan Ocean between Greater India and Asia and the underlying upper mantle dynamics. This study presents a detailed investigation of the Zedang ultramafic body (comprising a harzburgitic and a lherzolitic domain) in the eastern Yarlung Zangbo Suture. Major‐element compositions and Ti, Y, and HREE concentrations in peridotites and their minerals indicate that the harzburgites experienced higher degrees of melting than the lherzolites (∼13–19% versus ∼7–12%). The overall enrichment of LREE, Zr, and Sr in harzburgites and their clinopyroxenes suggest that the harzburgites were pervasively metasomatized (cryptically) by silicate melts. The harzburgites also record local strong metasomatism close to melt channels. Nd isotopes indicate that both metasomatic agents were derived from forearc basaltic magmas that intruded the harzburgites at ∼130–120 Ma. The lherzolites did not experience such metasomatism. Thermometry shows that the harzburgites experienced a thorough, lower‐temperature reequilibration process in lithosphere, while the lherzolites rapidly accreted from the asthenosphere and preserved high equilibration temperatures (up to ∼1320°C). Comparable enrichment in fluid‐mobile elements and radiogenic Sr‐isotope compositions in both harzburgitic and lherzolitic pyroxenes reflect slab‐fluid infiltration into both mantle domains. All the evidence and the presence of subduction‐related chromitites in the harzburgites suggest that the Zedang harzburgites formed in a possibly Jurassic mature subduction system, while the lherzolites accreted later in an early Cretaceous forearc during subduction initiation. The two‐layered lithospheric mantle reflects the episodic subduction of the Tethyan slabs.
Mitochondria‐mediated oxidative stress induced by desert dust in rat alveolar macrophages
Authors: Pardo Michal , Katra Itzhak , Schaeur James J. , Rudich Yinon
Published: March 2017

Exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM), including PM from resuspension of soils and dusts, increases the risk for respiratory diseases. However, the exact mechanism of PM‐mediated damage to the lungs remains unclear. Due to recent increases in the frequency of dust storms in many areas, we examined the cytotoxic effects of soil‐dust samples collected in an arid zone in Israel on rat lung macrophages. The desert soil contains soil crusts and low levels of toxic metal content. Exposure of cells to water extracts from the dust samples caused significant reduction in the concentration of live cells and overall cell viability. The dust samples induced cell death through apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased mitochondrial lipid peroxidation. The dust samples generated more reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to control‐treated samples and National Institute of Standards and Technology San Joaquin Valley standard reference material. To assess whether the oxidative imbalance induced by dust extract also interferes with the antioxidant defense, we evaluated phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes, which are Nrf2 classical targets. The Nrf2 transcription factor is a master regulator of cellular adaptation to stress. The dust extracts produced a significant increase in phase II detoxifying genes. This work suggests that the health‐related injury observed in rat lung cells exposed to dust extracts is associated with ROS generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, and cellular antioxidant imbalance. Damage to lung mitochondria may be an important mechanism by which dust‐containing bacterial material induces lung injury upon inhalation.
Relating coccidioidomycosis (valley fever) incidence to soil moisture conditions
Authors: Coopersmith E. J. , Bell J. E. , Benedict K. , Shriber J. , McCotter O. , Cosh M. H.
Published: March 2017

Coccidioidomycosis (also called Valley fever) is caused by a soilborne fungus, Coccidioides spp., in arid regions of the southwestern United States. Though some who develop infections from this fungus remain asymptomatic, others develop respiratory disease as a consequence. Less commonly, severe illness and death can occur when the infection spreads to other regions of the body. Previous analyses have attempted to connect the incidence of coccidioidomycosis to broadly available climatic measurements, such as precipitation or temperature. However, with the limited availability of long‐term, in situ soil moisture data sets, it has not been feasible to perform a direct analysis of the relationships between soil moisture levels and coccidioidomycosis incidence on a larger temporal and spatial scale. Utilizing in situ soil moisture gauges throughout the southwest from the U.S. Climate Reference Network and a model with which to extend those estimates, this work connects periods of higher and lower soil moisture in Arizona and California between 2002 and 2014 to the reported incidence of coccidioidomycosis. The results indicate that in both states, coccidioidomycosis incidence is related to soil moisture levels from previous summers and falls. Stated differently, a higher number of coccidioidomycosis cases are likely to be reported if previous bands of months have been atypically wet or dry, depending on the location.
Electrification life cycle of incipient thunderstorms
Authors: Mattos Enrique V. , Machado Luiz A. T. , Williams Earle R. , Goodman Steven J. , Blakeslee Richard J. , Bailey Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2017

This work evaluates how clouds evolve to thunderstorms in terms of microphysical characteristics to produce the first intracloud (IC) and cloud‐to‐ground (CG) lightning flashes. Observations of 46 compact isolated thunderstorms during the 2011/2012 spring‐summer in Southeast Brazil with an X‐band polarimetric radar and two‐ and three‐dimensional Lightning Location Systems demonstrated key parameters in a cloud's vertical structure that produce the initial electrification and lightning activity. The majority (98%) of the first CG flashes were preceded (by approximately 6 min) by intracloud (IC) lightning. The most important aspect of the observations going into this paper, which came originally from the visual examination of a large number of thunderstorms, is that an initial positive differential reflectivity (ZDR) (associated with supercooled raindrops) evolved to reduced ZDR (and even negative values) in the cloud layer between 0° and to −15°C before and during the time of the initial lightning, suggesting evolution from supercooled raindrops to frozen particles promoting the formation of conical graupel. An enhanced negative specific differential phase (KDP) (down to −0.5° km−1) in the glaciated layer (above −40°C) was predominantly observed at the time of the first CG flash, indicating that ice crystals, such as plates and columns, were being vertically aligned by a strong electric field. These results demonstrate that the observations of ZDR evolution in the mixed layer and negative KDP in the upper levels of convective cores may provide useful information on thunderstorm vigor and lightning nowcasting.
Inversion of AMSR‐E observations for land surface temperature estimation: 2. Global comparison with infrared satellite temperature
Authors: Ermida S. L. , Jiménez C. , Prigent C. , Trigo I. F. , DaCamara C. C.
Published: March 2017

A comparison of land surface temperature (Ts) derived from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer–Earth Observing System (AMSR‐E) with infrared Ts is presented. The infrared Ts include clear‐sky estimates from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), the Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager, the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) Imager, and the Japanese Meteorological Imager. The higher discrepancies between AMSR‐E and MODIS are observed over deserts and snow‐covered areas. The former seems to be associated with Ts underestimation by MODIS, whereas the latter is mostly related to uncertainties in microwave emissivity over snow/ice. Ts differences between AMSR‐E and MODIS are significantly reduced after masking out snow and deserts, with a bias change from 2.6/4.6 K to 3.0/1.4 K for daytime/nighttime and a standard deviation (STD) decrease from 7.3/7.9 K to 5.1/3.9 K. When comparing with all infrared sensors, the STD of the differences between microwave and infrared Ts is generally higher than between IR retrievals. However, the biases between microwave and infrared Ts are, in some cases, of the same order as the ones observed between infrared products. This is the case for GOES, with daytime biases with respect to AMSR‐E and MODIS of 0.45 K and 0.60 K, respectively. While the infrared Ts are clear‐sky estimates, AMSR‐E also provides Ts under cloudy conditions. For frequently cloudy regions, this results in a large increase of available Ts estimates (>250%), making the microwave Ts a very powerful complement of the infrared estimates.
Simultaneous upward and downward propagating inertia‐gravity waves in the MLT observed at Andes Lidar Observatory
Authors: Huang Kai Ming , Liu Alan Z. , Zhang Shao Dong , Yi Fan , Huang Chun Ming , Gong Yun , Gan Quan , Zhang Ye Hui , Wang Rui
Published: March 2017

Based on the temperature and zonal and meridional winds observed with an Na lidar at Andes Lidar Observatory (30.3°S, 70.7°W) on the night of 20–21 July 2015, we report simultaneous upward and downward propagating inertia‐gravity waves (IGWs) in the mesosphere/lower stratosphere (MLT). The ground‐based periods of the upward and downward IGWs are about 5.4 h and 4.8 h, respectively. The horizontal and vertical wavelengths are about 935 km and 10.9 km for the 5.4 h IGW and about 1248 km and 22 km for the 4.8 h IGW, respectively. Hodograph analyses indicate that the 5.4 h IGW propagates in the direction of about 23° west of north, while the 4.8 h IGW travels northward with an azimuth of 20°clockwise from north. These wave parameters are in the typical IGW wavelength and period ranges; nevertheless, the downward propagating IGWs in the MLT are rarely reported in previous observations. The ray‐tracing analysis suggests that the 5.4 h IGW is likely to originate from the stratospheric jet adjustment over the Antarctic, while the 4.8 h IGW source may be above the MLT because it is unlikely to propagate downward through a reflection in the realistic atmospheric wind field. Although both IGWs do not reach their amplitude thresholds of instability, the Richard number reveals that the dynamical and convective instabilities occur intermittently, which indicates that the instability arising from the multiple‐perturbation superposition may have a significant influence on wave saturation and amplitude constraint in the MLT.
Titan's atmosphere and climate
Authors: Hörst S. M.
Published: March 2017

Titan is the only moon with a substantial atmosphere, the only other thick N2 atmosphere besides Earth's, the site of extraordinarily complex atmospheric chemistry that far surpasses any other solar system atmosphere, and the only other solar system body with stable liquid currently on its surface. The connection between Titan's surface and atmosphere is also unique in our solar system; atmospheric chemistry produces materials that are deposited on the surface and subsequently altered by surface‐atmosphere interactions such as aeolian and fluvial processes resulting in the formation of extensive dune fields and expansive lakes and seas. Titan's atmosphere is favorable for organic haze formation, which combined with the presence of some oxygen‐bearing molecules indicates that Titan's atmosphere may produce molecules of prebiotic interest. The combination of organics and liquid, in the form of water in a subsurface ocean and methane/ethane in the surface lakes and seas, means that Titan may be the ideal place in the solar system to test ideas about habitability, prebiotic chemistry, and the ubiquity and diversity of life in the universe. The Cassini‐Huygens mission to the Saturn system has provided a wealth of new information allowing for study of Titan as a complex system. Here I review our current understanding of Titan's atmosphere and climate forged from the powerful combination of Earth‐based observations, remote sensing and in situ spacecraft measurements, laboratory experiments, and models. I conclude with some of our remaining unanswered questions as the incredible era of exploration with Cassini‐Huygens comes to an end.
A decomposition‐integration risk analysis method for real‐time operation of a complex flood control system
Authors: Chen Juan , Zhong Ping‐An , Zhang Yu , Navar David , Yeh William W.‐G.
Published: March 2017

Risk analysis plays an important role in decision making for real‐time flood control operation of complex flood control systems. A typical flood control system consists of reservoirs, river channels, and downstream control points. The system generally is characterized by nonlinearity and large scale. Additionally, the input variables are mostly stochastic. Because of the dimensionality problem, generally, it would not be possible to carry out risk analysis without decomposition. In this paper, we propose a decomposition‐integration approach whereby the original complex flood control system is decomposed into a number of independent subsystems. We conduct risk analysis for each subsystem and then integrate the results by means of combination theory of stochastic processes. We evaluate the propagation of uncertainties through the complex flood control system and calculate the risk of reservoir overtopping, as well as the risk of flooding at selected downstream control points. We apply the proposed methodology to a flood control system in the middle reaches of the Huaihe River basin in China. The results show that the proposed method is practical and provides a way to estimate the risks in real‐time flood control operation of a complex flood control system.