bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
False spectra formation in the differential two-channel scheme of the laser Doppler flowmeter
Authors: Lapitan Denis , Rogatkin Dmitry , Persheyev Saydulla , Kotliar Konstantin
Published: June 2017

Noise in the differential two-channel scheme of a classic laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) instrument was studied. Formation of false spectral components in the output signal due to beating of electrical signals in the differential amplifier was found out. The improved block-diagram of the flowmeter was developed allowing to reduce the noise.
Advances in studies on human papillomavirus infection and oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Guo Zhitao
Published: June 2017

Objective:This study summarizes research progress on human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and carcinogenesis mechanism, curative effect, and prognosis of oropharyngeal epithelium.

Methods:By using Medline and PubMed database retrieval system and “HPV, oropharyngeal cancer” as keywords, we searched relevant literature from January 1998 to June 2012 and incorporated results into the following criteria: 1) biological characteristics of HPV; 2) carcinogenic mechanism and route of HPV transmission; 3) HPV infection rate in oropharyngeal cancer; 4) HPV infection and prognosis of oropharyngeal cancer; and 5) HPV vaccine. A total of 38 articles were analyzed according to incorporated criteria.

Results:HPV mainly infects oral mucosa through direct mouth–genital contact. Among general populations, oropharyngeal cancer tissues present higher HPV infection rate than oral mucosal epithelium. Polymerase chain reaction-based detection shows the highest sensitivity and is most widely used in HPV detection. High-risk HPV16/18 is a commonly detected type. HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer is an independent subtype, displaying unique molecular biological and clinical features. Tumor tissues rare exhibit P53 mutation. Oropharyngeal cancer patients are sensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy and display long-term prognosis. Preventive effects of HPV vaccine on oropharyngeal cancer still require elucidation.

Conclusion:HPV infection is an important risk and independent prognostic factor of oropharyngeal cancer.
Research Progress on Diagnosis Methods for Fungal Infection
Authors: Feng Hua
Published: June 2017

In recent years, owing to abuse of antibiotics, extensive use of antitumor drugs and immunosuppressive agents and other reasons, an increasing number of people suffered from fungal infection. In this situation, researchers proposed new diagnosis methods, such as G test, galactomannan (GM) test, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). G test is simple, quick, and highly sensitive and can detect multiple fungi; however, it cannot distinguish fungal types and may result in false positive and false negative results. GM test is less time consuming and feature highly positive detection rates but can simply be used in inspection of invasive aspergillosis. However, optimal positive critical values of GM test remain controversial. PCR is currently one of the fastest methods but is not formally used in clinical practice because of its lack of standardized operation and evaluation criteria. This study reviews the above three methods with the aim of discovering and summarizing their advantages and disadvantages to facilitate research and development of new diagnosis methods.
Research progress on immune response of B lymphocytes and anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: You Jiacong
Published: June 2017

Multiple studies elucidated the importance of cellular immune mechanisms for protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, recent studies showed that B lymphocytes play a role that is underestimated through various interactions with cellular immune response, forming an important aspect of host defense against M. tuberculosis bacteria. Therefore, the author hereby proposes a progressive perspective for immunology of tuberculosis, i.e., cellular immunity and humoral immunity are not necessarily mutually exclusive. The present study summarizes recent studies that support the important role of B lymphocytes in terms of M. tuberculosis infection.
Research Progress on the Relationship Between Oral Microbial Community and Tumor
Authors: Ma Shujun
Published: June 2017

Significant progress was observed in studies of the relationship between oral Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer and tumors. Based on three distinct and close relationships, namely, the relationship between oral H. pylori and gastric cancer, between oral microbial communities and oral squamous cell carcinoma, and between oral microbial communities of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients and tumors, this work reviews the relationship between oral microbial communities and tumors. This research also provides reference for further analysis of the relationship between oral microorganisms and tumors to realize early diagnosis of tumor patients through detecting oral microorganisms under adjuvant therapy.
Effect of Vacuum Impregnation on Drying Kinetics and Selected Quality Factors of Apple Cubes
Authors: Pasławska Marta , Stępień Bogdan , Nawirska-Olszańska Agnieszka , Maślankowski Radosław , Rydzak Leszek
Published: June 2017

The possibility of using the vacuum impregnation as a pretreatment before drying apple cubes was investigated. The impregnation was carried out for 4.5 min with the vacuum pressure of 0.01 MPa. The sucrose solution or a mixture of sucrose and the citric acid were used as infiltration liquids. Apple cubes were dried by convective drying (CD) (at temperature of 50 and 70 °C) or microwave-vacuum drying (MVD) (at power of microwaves 120 and 480 W). The drying kinetics was determined and quality factors (anti-oxidant activity, mechanical–rheological properties and colour changes) were analysed. Studies proved that the vacuum impregnation causes increasing of the drying dynamics (12.50–28.57 % during CD and 12.50–18.48 % during MVD). All impregnated apples were darker, yellower and susceptible for deformation or cutting than non-impregnated. The highest level of anti-oxidant activity was observed when two-component impregnant before MVD by power of 480 W was used.
Mechanism of antihypertensive effect of Mucuna pruriens L. seed extract and its isolated compounds
Authors: Khan Mohammad Yaseen , Kumar Vimal
Published: June 2017

Background

In the search of safe and effective lead molecules from natural sources, Mucuna pruriens (MP) L. (Fabaceae) seeds were utilized for exploring the antihypertensive potential. Traditionally, it is used as diuretic and hypotensive.

Methods

Bioassay-guided fractions were utilized for the isolation of active compounds by column chromatography. IC50 value, enzyme kinetics and inhibition mechanism were determined. In vivo time and dose-dependent hypotensive study followed by changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP) induced by angiotensin I (3 nmol/kg), angiotensin II (3 nmol/kg), and bradykinin (10 nmol/kg) in anesthetized rats was done. Plasma and tissue angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activities were also determined.

Results

Phytochemical analysis by spectroscopic techniques revealed the presence of known compounds like genistein, ursolic acid and L-DOPA from the ethyl acetate and water fraction, respectively. In vitro study revealed MP ethyl acetate (MPEA) fraction and genistein as the most active fraction (IC50 156.45 µg/mL) and compound (IC50 253.81 µM), respectively. Lineweaver–Burk plots revealed a non-competitive mode of inhibition. ACE protein precipitation was the suggested mechanism for inhibition. The extract showed a time- and dose-dependent decrease in MAP. Genistein was able to dose-dependently reduce the MAP, up to 53±1.5 mmHg (40 mg/kg, i.v.). As compared to control, it showed a dose-dependent decrease in plasma ACE activity of 40.61 % and 54.76 % at 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, respectively. It also decreased the ACE activity in the aorta (107.67nM/ml min at 10 mg, p<0.001; 95.33nM/ml min at 20 mg p<0.001). Captopril was used as a standard for various in vitro and in vivo assays.

Conclusions

The study revealed the antihypertensive potential of MP seed compounds via ACE inhibition.
Prosody of the viewpoint in political discourse
Authors: Alexiyevets Oxana
Published: June 2017

The article reports on the study of the prosodic characteristics of the utterances expressing viewpoint in English political discourse. The paper draws on the findings made in the course of the auditory analysis of presentations delivered by politicians. The work contains an overview of political discourse and viewpoint studies. Special focus is given to prosodic variations of viewpoint in political public speech.
Pragmatic markers in dialogical discourse
Authors: Volkova Lidiya
Published: June 2017

The article presents a study of dialogical discourse operators defined as pragmatic markers. The author introduces a list of special English pragmatic markers – words that are united by the same implicit semantics of contrast. Pragmatic markers of the selected group are used in dialogical discourse as a means of realization of the speaker's communicative intention and serve as illocutionary indicators of indirect speech acts. They are also important components of indirect communicative strategies and tactics.
The Legacy of G. Wilson Knight
Authors: Raw Laurence
Published: June 2017

G. Wilson Knight (1897-1985) was one of the most influential Shakespearean critics of the mid-twentieth century. This piece surveys his work from 1930 until the early 1980s. Much affected by the First World War, he developed a style of criticism based on Christian principles of respect for other people and belief in an all-powerful God. Many of his most famous pieces (in THE WHEEL OF FIRE, for instance) argue for human insignificance in an indifferent universe. It is up to all of us as individuals to develop methods of coping with this world. Wilson Knight’s ideas gained particular currency during the Second World War, when Britain’s very future seemed at risk due to the threat of Nazi invasion. Although much derided for his use of transcendent language—especially by his contemporary F. R. Leavis—Wilson Knight’s ideas seem to have acquired new significance in a globalized world, where individuals fight to main their identity in a technology-driven environment.
New record ofMelomys burtoni(Mammalia, Rodentia, Murinae) from Halmahera (North Moluccas, Indonesia): a review of MoluccanMelomys
Authors: Fabre Pierre-Henri , Fitriana Yuli S. , Semiadi Gono , Pagès Marie , Aplin Ken , Supriatna Nanang , Helgen Kristofer M.
Published: June 2017

Mosaic-tailed rodents of the genusMelomysbelong to the Australasian old endemic murine radiation and exhibit a rat-like morphology with arboreal or scansorial specializations. Here we report a new population ofMelomys burtonifrom the island of Halmahera (in the North Moluccas, Indonesia). Our molecular phylogenetic results highlight close relationships and recent evolutionary divergences amongM. burtonifrom Halmahera and the Australo-Papuan taxaM. burtoniandM. lutillusand other Moluccan taxa, includingM. paveli. Multivariate as well as geometric morphometric analyses of cranial, and dental features support the recognition ofM. burtonifrom Halmahera as a slightly distinctive insular population, preventing us from elevating it as a new taxa. This population is recorded from lowland secondary forest and forest edge habitats in south-central Halmahera. As with other Moluccan endemic murines, colonization by an Australo-Papuan ancestor and subsequent isolation is the probable mode of diversification forM. burtoniin Halmahera. The discovery ofMelomysin Halmahera fills a previously puzzling gap in knowledge of the murine fauna of the Moluccas and the biogeography of the Wallacean region.
The use of bias correction versus the Jackknife when testing the mean reversion and long term mean parameters in continuous time models
Authors: Iglesias Emma M. , Phillips Garry D. A.
Published: June 2017

In this paper we extend the results in [5] in two directions:
First, we show that by bias correcting the estimated mean reversion
parameter we can also have better finite sample properties of the testing
procedure using a t-statistic in the near unit root situation when the mean
reversion parameter is approaching its lower bound versus using the
Jackknife estimator of Phillips and Yu [8]. Second, we show that
although Tang and Chen [10] demonstrate that the variance of the maximum
likelihood estimator of the long term mean parameter is of an order equal to
the reciprocal of the sample size (the same order as that of the bias and
variance of the mean reversion parameter estimator and so it does not
converge very fast to its true value), the t-statistic related to that
parameter does not exhibit large empirical size distortions and so does not
need to be bias corrected in practice.
Helicity of Convective Flows from Localized Heat Source in a Rotating Layer
Authors: Sukhanovskii A. , Evgrafova A. , Popova E.
Published: June 2017

Experimental and numerical study of the steady-state cyclonic vortex from isolated heat source in a rotating fluid layer is described. The structure of laboratory cyclonic vortex is similar to the typical structure of tropical cyclones from observational data and numerical modelling including secondary flows in the boundary layer. Differential characteristics of the flow were studied by numerical simulation using CFD software FlowVision. Helicity distribution in rotating fluid layer with localized heat source was analysed. Two mechanisms which play role in helicity generation are found. The first one is the strong correlation of cyclonic vortex and intensive upward motion in the central part of the vessel. The second one is due to large gradients of velocity on the periphery. The integral helicity in the considered case is substantial and its relative level is high.
Influences of Carbody Vertical Flexibility on Ride Comfort of Railway Vehicles
Authors: Dumitriu Mădălina , Cruceanu Cătălin
Published: June 2017

The article investigates the influence of the carbody vertical flexibility on the ride comfort of the railway vehicles. The ride comfort is evaluated via the comfort index calculated in three reference points of the carbody. The results of the numerical simulations bring attention to the importance of the carbody symmetrical vertical bending upon the dynamic response of the vehicle, mainly at high velocities. Another conclusion is that the ride comfort can be significantly affected as a function of the symmetrical bending frequency of the carbody. Similarly, there are improvement possibilities for the ride comfort when the best selection of the stiffness in the longitudinal traction system between the carbody and bogie and the vertical suspension damping is made.
Stationary Wavelet-based Two-directional Two-dimensional Principal Component Analysis for EMG Signal Classification
Authors: Ji Yi , Sun Shanlin , Xie Hong-Bo
Published: June 2017

Discrete wavelet transform (WT) followed by principal component analysis (PCA) has been a powerful approach for the analysis of biomedical signals. Wavelet coefficients at various scales and channels were usually transformed into a one-dimensional array, causing issues such as the curse of dimensionality dilemma and small sample size problem. In addition, lack of time-shift invariance of WT coefficients can be modeled as noise and degrades the classifier performance. In this study, we present a stationary wavelet-based two-directional two-dimensional principal component analysis (SW2D2PCA) method for the efficient and effective extraction of essential feature information from signals. Time-invariant multi-scale matrices are constructed in the first step. The two-directional two-dimensional principal component analysis then operates on the multi-scale matrices to reduce the dimension, rather than vectors in conventional PCA. Results are presented from an experiment to classify eight hand motions using 4-channel electromyographic (EMG) signals recorded in healthy subjects and amputees, which illustrates the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed method for biomedical signal analysis.
From Public Service Broadcasting to Soci(et)al TV
Authors: Keinonen Heidi , Klein Shagrir Oranit
Published: June 2017

In a changing media environment, television is being transformed by the adoption of practices such as audience participation and interactivity. This article analyses the ways in which managers and producers in Finnish and Israeli public service and hybrid television companies perceive participation and interactivity. We suggest that while these concepts can be described by hybrid broadcasters using the technologically- and commercially-oriented concept of ‘social TV’, the term does not adequately address the perceptions of socially-oriented public service broadcasters (PSBs). Hence, we propose the society- and value-oriented concept of ‘soci(et)al TV’ in an effort to conceptualise the PSBs’ perceptions concerning the adoption of interactivity and participation practices while they seek to fulfil their social commitments and objectives. Our argument is based on a comparative study of two different broadcasting models (public service vs. hybrid) in two national media systems and cultures.
Hunting the Beast on YouTube
Authors: Mörner Cecilia , Olausson Ulrika
Published: June 2017

Humans’ perceived relationship to nature and non-human lifeforms is fundamental for sustainable development; different framings of nature – as commodity, as threat, as sacred etc. – imply different responses to future challenges. The body of research on nature representations in various symbolic contexts is growing, but the ways in which nature is framed by people in the everyday has received scant attention. This paper aims to contribute to our understanding of the framing of nature by studying how wild-boar hunting is depicted on YouTube. The qualitative frame analysis identified three interrelated frames depicting hunting as battle, as consumption, and as privilege, all of which constitute and are constituted by the underlying notion of human as superior to nature. It is suggested that these hegemonic nature frames suppress more constructive ways of framing the human-nature relationship, but also that the identification of such potential counter-hegemonic frames enables their discursive manifestation.
Building and Sustaining Freedom of Expression
Authors: Kenyon Andrew T. , Svensson Eva-Maria , Edström Maria
Published: June 2017

Although countries protect and promote freedom of expression in different ways, free speech can be understood to have two basic aspects in democratic constitutional systems: non-censorship and diversity of voices. This article examines how the approach to free speech in Sweden contains both these aspects. Selected comparisons with the US First Amendment, and German broadcasting law, indicate the value in the Swedish approach but also reveal challenges that it faces if free speech’s dual aspects are not clearly recognised – a danger that some contemporary statements suggests is real. Articulating free speech in terms of both non-censorship and diversity may aid Swedish parliamentary processes to uphold important structural aspects of the freedom, but it would also bring into focus larger questions about the limits of parliamentary processesalonein building a viable system of freedom of expression for the future.
Tangible and Intangible Legacy of the 19thCentury Zappas Olympics and their Implications for Contemporary Sport Tourism
Authors: Margaritis George , Rozmiarek Mateusz , Malchrowicz-Mosko Ewa
Published: June 2017

As has been shown in the article, the Zappas Olympics generously contributed to the revival of the Olympic Games in the nineteenth century. The course of these competitions has been described, and a brief summary of Zappas’s work, which does not often attract a lot of attention in, for example, Polish academics, has also been made. The fact that the Zappas Olympics mainly enhanced the national identity of the Greeks following Turkish captivity has also been highlighted. The Zappas Olympics allowed the Greeks to become more familiar with sports and fair play. The knowledge that the Greeks acquired from the organization of this event was useful for the organization of the first modern Olympic Games in Athens. These days, material remains of this event serve touristic and cultural functions. The significance of such facilities as the Zappeion and the Panathenaic Stadium have also been underlined. For example, the Zappeion and the Panathenaic Stadium host cultural events and welcome tourists interested in sports history or Greek culture. These are the authorities responsible for touristic policy in Greece and they may decide whether such historic sites and sporting facilities will be included in thematic routes for tourists. According to the authors of the present paper, these sites may effectively compete with mass and recreational attractions in Greece.
Hydro power projects- boon or bane for the rural communities of Western Himalayas
Authors: Jolli Virat
Published: June 2017

A survey based questionnaire research was conducted in Sainj Valley, Himachal Pradesh. The survey was conducted in June-July 2015 in an area affected due to hydro power projects (HPPs). A total of 48 individuals participated in the survey. Based on survey questionnaire, it was found that native rural people perceived that HPPs had significantly brought positive change in life of native people and were therefore in favour of HPPs. However, large section of native people had not been benefited of HPPs. The decline in agriculture production, change in cropping pattern and poor access of water to native people were some of the negative implications of these projects. The dependence of native people on forest resources has not declined much and still number of local individuals depends on forest resources to supplement their income. Though, in current scenario people has benefited from such projects, however it is not known if it will be sustained for long time due to current unsustainable agriculture practices and limited employment opportunities. Moreover, Government should provide adequate compensation to the affected individuals by either providing a suitable land for agriculture or employment under various rural sector schemes.
The effect of an organic waste compost on the agro-chemical characteristics of the soil, and the mineral composition of the sunflower leaves
Authors: Lăcătușu Radu , Lăcătușu Anca-Rovena , Căpățână Romeo , Lungu Mihaela , Lazăr Rodica , Moraru Irina Ramona
Published: June 2017

Aiming to increase the use of natural resources and unexplored opportunities in industrial and agricultural practices, the marine algae biomass, that causes serious environmental problems in the Romanian Black Sea coast, was used in association with another two organic wastes, farmyard manure from cattle-breeding farms and sewage sludge resulted from the waste water treatment, to produce a compost suitable as organic fertilizer for plant cultivation in ecologic farming systems. Four variants of compost, first representing equal parts (33.33%) of those three components, and the other three proportions of 50% of each component, the difference being ensured in a ratio of 25% of each of the other two components, have been tested in a field experiment to assess their effects, both on the agro-chemical properties of the soil and on the sunflower plants development and crops. Until the phase of sunflower calathidia formation, the compost containing 50% farmyard manure influenced the best plant development in terms of height and number of leaves, then, at the end of vegetation period, the best plant development took place under the influence of compost prevalent in marine algae. The mobile forms of N and P were statistically differentiated depending on the dose of compost, the maximum dose generating the lowest content levels in the soil, as a result of higher absorption of these chemical elements in plants. The content of P and Ca in sunflower leaves recorded significant differences.
Spatial temporal variability of maximum flow in Slănic, Teleajen and Prahova River Basins
Authors: Manolache Andreea-Violeta
Published: June 2017

The present study analyzes the spatial temporal variation of maximum flow in Slănic Teleajen and Prahova river basins (upper basin). Maximum flow rates were analyzed in relation to the threshold values corresponding to the Defence Levels respectively the maximum flow which determines exceeding Warning and Flooding Levels. The series of major floods events, selected on the basis of the threshold values mentioned above, were then statistically analyzed to determine trends (Mann-Kendall test) and the variations in the level of frequency, analysis which was applied seasonally and annually. The analysis made revealed that trends in terms of maximum flow rates in the Prahova upper basin were generally negative (decreasing), statistically significant for the February, May, July, August and the annual average, while in Slanic river basin, the trend was mostly positive, statistically significant for October.
Geospatial technology perspectives for mining vis-a-vis sustainable forest ecosystems
Authors: Goparaju Laxmi , Rama Chandra Prasad P. , Ahmad Firoz
Published: June 2017

Forests, the backbone of biogeochemical cycles and life supporting systems, are under severe pressure due to varied anthropogenic activities. Mining activities are one among the major reasons for forest destruction questioning the survivability and sustainability of flora and fauna existing in that area. Thus, monitoring and managing the impact of mining activities on natural resources at regular intervals is necessary to check the status of their depleted conditions, and to take up restoration and conservative measurements. Geospatial technology provides means to identify the impact of different mining operations on forest ecosystems and helps in proposing initiatives for safeguarding the forest environment. In this context, the present study highlights the problems related to mining in forest ecosystems and elucidates how geospatial technology can be employed at various stages of mining activities to achieve a sustainable forest ecosystem. The study collates information from various sources and highlights the role of geospatial technology in mining industries and reclamation process.
Experience with application of reagent to heat transfer surfaces of combustion device
Authors: Blahůšková Veronika , Vlček Jozef , Grycová Barbora , Jančar Dalibor , Velička Marek
Published: June 2017

The formation of deposits on heat exchange surfaces of combustion equipment causes a decrease in heat exchange, a decrease in power, and consequently deterioration in the economic balance of combustion equipment. The technology of French company A. I. T. DRIVEX has been developing and being applied in practice for many decades. Preventive technology is used as a mean reagent periodically injected during operation into the combustion chamber. Part of the application is always pre-prepared project resolving the location of the injection nozzles into the combustion chamber on the flue gas path. The article describes the experimental usage of reagent GEPERSUITE 2200 at the Sermaize refinery in France. The aim of the test is to evaluate the benefits and advantages of applied technology in the boiler refinery in full operation. The results clearly demonstrate that using the reagent GEPERSUITE 2200 is advantageous in terms of economic and technical properties.
Labor Share in National Income: Implications in the Baltic Countries
Authors: Razgūnė Aušra , Lazutka Romas
Published: June 2017

Despite the fact that stability of labor share in national income is a key foundation in macroeconomic models, scientists acknowledge, that in the last three decades it has been declining around the world. The Baltic countries are not an exception; they follow similar patters to large economies, thus the research aims at determining economic factors at play. With the help of error correction model and time series data covering the past twenty years, we determine factors which contribute to the decline of labor share in the Baltic countries. We find significant long-term relationships between labor share and government spending, trade openness, and emigration. Government spending exhibits the highest contribution to variance of labor share in Lithuania, which also explains a large part of Latvia’s labor share variations. We find many similarities between the analyzed countries, however some differences are also visible.
Part-time Employment and Business Cycle in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Fialová Kamila
Published: June 2017

This article explores the development of part-time employment in Central and Eastern Europe and compares it to Western Europe. On the macro level it examines the role of the business cycle and its effect on part-time employment in the two groups of countries since 2001. The key result reveals that contrary to the West, the business cycle development exerts a significant negative effect on the part-time employment rate in Eastern Europe. When the economy operates below its potential, part-time employment tends to grow more than full-time employment. This finding is consistent with the labour demand effect and reflects the pursuit of flexibility by firms as well as the adjustment in composition of employment to changing economic conditions. The countercyclical effect is even stronger for involuntary part-time employment. Separate analyses of individual demographic groups of workers reveal a significant negative effect of the business cycle on part-time employment of older workers and male prime-age workers in Eastern Europe. In contrast, the effect is insignificant for young workers and unclear for prime-age women.
The 20th Jubilee Colloquium on Regional Sciences: A Conference Report
Authors: Klímová Viktorie , Žítek Vladimír , Viturka Milan
Published: June 2017

The history of the International Colloquium on Regional Sciences reaches back to 1998. Over the years, its format has dramatically changed and the Colloquium has become a respected event, which attracts dozens of experts from the field of regional research every year. The contributions focus on the issue of regional disparities, the impact of the public administration activities, the evaluation of the economic, innovation and knowledge potentials of regions, as well as spatial aspects of transport, tourism, population, business environment, and the environment as such. The critical discussions have successfully led to consensus concerning the complex and often long-term problems in the economy of regions. Additionally, the assessment of the impacts of public policies, in particular regional development programmes, is significant. Participants' contributions not only enrich the practice, but many of them considerably extend the theoretical foundations of regional sciences. The Colloquium is also a platform for the creation and development of the links between researchers and academic institutions. All of this represents a significant potential for future years of this event.
Second-Degree Price Discrimination on Two-Sided Markets
Authors: Böhme Enrico
Published: June 2017

The paper provides an analysis of the second-degree price discrimination problem on a monopolistic two-sided market. In a framework with two distinct types of agents on either side of the market, we show that under incomplete information the extent of platform access for high-demand agents is strictly lower than the benchmark level with complete information. In addition, we find that it is possible in the monopoly optimum that the contract for low-demand agents is more expensive than the one for high-demand agents if the extent of interaction with agents from the opposite market side is contract-specific.
The Impact of Macroeconomic Indicators on Indian Stock Prices: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Giri A. K. , Joshi Pooja
Published: June 2017

The purpose of the present study is to examine the long run and the short run relationship between stock price and a set of macroeconomic variables for Indian economy using annual data from 1979 to 2014. The long run relationship is examined by implementing the ARDL bounds testing approach to co-integration. VECM method is used to test the short and long run causality and variance decomposition is used to predict long run exogenous shocks of the variables. The results confirm a long run relationship among the variables. Evidence suggests that Economic growth, inflation and exchange rate influence stock prices positively. However, crude oil price influences the stock price negatively. This implies that the increase in oil price induces inflationary expectation in the mind of investors and hence stock prices are adversely affected. The VECM result indicates that short run and long run unidirectional causality running from economic growth and FDI to stock prices in India. The result of the variance decomposition shows that stock market development in India is mostly explained by its own shocks. The Government can take steps to control the crude oil price in India and Investors’ confidence has to be gained by boosting the economic growth of the economy through appropriate policy tools.
Drivers of Firm Performance: Exploring Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches
Authors: Herciu Mihaela
Published: June 2017

The main purpose of this paper is to identify the drivers of firm performance by exploring both quantitative indicators - based on accounting profitability, shareholder value and economic value – and qualitative approach – based on balanced scorecard and triple bottom line. A literature review will be provided in order to obtain an optimum mix of quantitative and qualitative drivers for firm performance, on one hand, and a case study will be conducted for emphasizing the importance of both approaches, on the other hand.
Fraud and Business Cycle: Empirical Evidence from Fraudsters and Fraud Managers in Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Adedoyin Isola , Amogu Ezinne Olufadesola , Adeoti Johnson Olabode , Ijaiya Muftau Adeniyi
Published: June 2017

This paper aims at investigating the link between fraud and business cycle in Nigeria using primary data sourced from questionnaires administered on both fraudsters and fraud managers. This is premised on the ground that Nigeria is in recession and has been recently described as fantastically corrupt. Understanding the link between fraud and economic behaviour would give an in depth understanding of fraud levels in the different phases of the Nigerian economy and would help the fraud management system in Nigeria which is believed to have great consequences on the nation's economy. Our result shows that though there is a significant relationship between fraud and business cycle in Nigeria, the level of fraud committed does not solely depend on either expansion or recession exists in the economy, rather, there is an identified range of fraud that might be increased in adverse economy.
Investigating a Random Walk in Air Cargo Exports of Fresh Agricultural Products: Evidence from a Developing Country
Authors: Mawanga Freddie Festo
Published: June 2017

Since the 1990s exports of fresh agricultural products by air from Uganda have been increasing and making a significant contribution to her International trade. Products include mostly fish, flowers, papain, and vanilla constituting over 95% of all air exports. Farming of the items is mainly by small scale farmers who depend on the natural climate of the country. Consequently, monthly yields are also climate dependent making individual export volumes unpredictable. In spite of these uncertainties, this study was intended to investigate possible existence of a model in the trends. Monthly data were collected from Uganda Civil Aviation Authority from 2009 to 2012. Analysis was by using ARIMA Approach with the help of Eviews 8. Visually the data exhibited irregular patterns and without a trend or seasonality. First order differencing stationarised the data and the residuals had a random non-significant noise suggesting a Random Walk Model expressed as ARIMA (0, 1, 0) and a negative drift. The model shows a link between current and one lag export volumes and the negative drift is a convergence of successive differences in export volumes. These findings have policy implications in expansion and forecasting of the exports potential of applicability of Random Walk Theory in practice.
Nonlocal Symmetries, Consistent Riccati Expansion, and Analytical Solutions of the Variant Boussinesq System
Authors: Feng Lian-Li , Tian Shou-Fu , Zhang Tian-Tian , Zhou Jun
Published: June 2017

Under investigation in this paper is the variant Boussinesq system, which describes the propagation of surface long wave towards two directions in a certain deep trough. With the help of the truncated Painlevé expansion, we construct its nonlocal symmetry, Bäcklund transformation, and Schwarzian form, respectively. The nonlocal symmetries can be localised to provide the corresponding nonlocal group, and finite symmetry transformations and similarity reductions are computed. Furthermore, we verify that the variant Boussinesq system is solvable via the consistent Riccati expansion (CRE). By considering the consistent tan-function expansion (CTE), which is a special form of CRE, the interaction solutions between soliton and cnoidal periodic wave are explicitly studied.
Highly Accurate Analytical Approximate Solution to a Nonlinear Pseudo-Oscillator
Authors: Wu Baisheng , Liu Weijia , Lim C.W.
Published: June 2017

A second-order Newton method is presented to construct analytical approximate solutions to a nonlinear pseudo-oscillator in which the restoring force is inversely proportional to the dependent variable. The nonlinear equation is first expressed in a specific form, and it is then solved in two steps, a predictor and a corrector step. In each step, the harmonic balance method is used in an appropriate manner to obtain a set of linear algebraic equations. With only one simple second-order Newton iteration step, a short, explicit, and highly accurate analytical approximate solution can be derived. The approximate solutions are valid for all amplitudes of the pseudo-oscillator. Furthermore, the method incorporates second-order Taylor expansion in a natural way, and it is of significant faster convergence rate.
Cellular mechanism of fibril formation from serum amyloid A1 protein
Authors: Claus Stephanie , Meinhardt Katrin , Aumüller Tobias , Puscalau‐Girtu Ioana , Linder Julia , Haupt Christian , Walther Paul , Syrovets Tatiana , Simmet Thomas , Fändrich Marcus
Published: June 2017

Serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) is an apolipoprotein that binds to the high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) fraction of the serum and constitutes the fibril precursor protein in systemic AA amyloidosis. We here show that HDL binding blocks fibril formation from soluble SAA1 protein, whereas internalization into mononuclear phagocytes leads to the formation of amyloid. SAA1 aggregation in the cell model disturbs the integrity of vesicular membranes and leads to lysosomal leakage and apoptotic death. The formed amyloid becomes deposited outside the cell where it can seed the fibrillation of extracellular SAA1. Our data imply that cells are transiently required in the amyloidogenic cascade and promote the initial nucleation of the deposits. This mechanism reconciles previous evidence for the extracellular location of deposits and amyloid precursor protein with observations the cells are crucial for the formation of amyloid.
rRNA Pseudogenes in Filamentous Ascomycetes as Revealed by Genome Data
Authors: Li Yi , Yang Rui-Heng , Jiang Lan , Hu Xiao-Di , Wu Zu-Jian , Yao Yi-Jian
Published: June 2017

The nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) is considered as a paradigm of concerted evolution. Components of the rDNA tandem repeats (45S) are widely used in phylogenetic studies of different organisms and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was recently selected as a fungal DNA bar code. However, rRNA pseudogenes, as one kind of escape from concerted evolution, were reported in a wide range of organisms, especially in plants and animals. Moreover, large numbers of 5S rRNA pseudogenes were identified in several filamentous ascomycetes. To study whether rDNA evolves in a strict concerted manner and test whether rRNA pseudogenes exist in more species of ascomycetes, intragenomic rDNA polymorphisms were analyzed using whole genome sequences. Divergent rDNA paralogs were found to coexist within a single genome in seven filamentous ascomycetes examined. A great number of paralogs were identified as pseudogenes according to the mutation and secondary structure analyses. Phylogenetic analyses of the three rRNA coding regions of the 45S rDNA repeats, i.e., 18S, 5.8S, and 28S, revealed an interspecies clustering pattern of those different rDNA paralogs. The identified rRNA pseudogenic sequences were validated using specific primers designed. Mutation analyses revealed that the repeat-induced point (RIP) mutation was probably responsible for the formation of those rRNA pseudogenes.
Shrinking Daughters: Rlm1-Dependent G1/S Checkpoint MaintainsSaccharomyces cerevisiaeDaughter Cell Size and Viability
Authors: Piccirillo Sarah , Neog Deepshikha , Spade David , Van Horn J David , Tiede-Lewis LeAnn M , Dallas Sarah L , Kapros Tamas , Honigberg Saul M
Published: June 2017

How do cells ensure everything is set for cell division before they start the process? Piccirillo et al. demonstrate that a checkpoint in budding....

The Rlm1 transcription factor is a target of the cell wall integrity pathway. We report that an rlm1Δ mutant grown on a nonfermentable carbon source at low osmolarity forms cell groups in which a mother cell is surrounded by smaller “satellite-daughter” cells. Mother cells in these groups progressed through repeated rounds of cell division with normal rates of bud growth and genetic stability; however, these cells underwent precocious START relative to wild-type mothers. Thus, once activated, Rlm1 delays the transition from G1 to S, a mechanism we term the cell wall/START (CW/START) checkpoint. The rlm1Δ satellite-cell phenotype is suppressed by deletion of either SLT2, which encodes the kinase that activates Rlm1, or SWI4, which is also activated by Slt2; suggesting that Slt2 can have opposing roles in regulating the START transition. Consistent with an Rlm1-dependent CW/START checkpoint, rlm1Δ satellite daughters were unable to grow or divide further even after transfer to rich medium, but UV irradiation in G1 could partially rescue rlm1Δ satellite daughters in the next division. Indeed, after cytokinesis, these satellite daughters shrank rapidly, displayed amorphous actin staining, and became more permeable. As a working hypothesis, we propose that duplication of an “actin-organizing center” in late G1 may be required both to progress through START and to reestablish the actin cytoskeleton in daughter cells.
Trends in sexual orientation in Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Hudson W.de , Dall’Agnol Simone Conte , Lara Diogo Rizzato
Published: June 2017

Avaliou-se a prevalência de identidades sexuais em homens e mulheres de diferentes gerações com base em cinco categorias (heterossexuais, predominantemente heterossexuais, bissexuais, predominantemente homossexuais e homossexuais) e aferiu-se a ideação e comportamentos homoeróticos em heterossexuais. A coletada de dados foi realizada por meio de questionários de autorrelato disponibilizados em um sitio de pesquisa na Internet. Dados de 41.873 Brasileiros foram colhidos e analisados. Do total, 78.2% dos homens e 89.8% das mulheres se declaram heterossexuais, a minoria sexual mais prevalente foi a de homossexuais (4.6%) e de predominantemente heterossexuais (4.1%). Ideação e comportamentos homoeróticos em heterossexuais foram frequentes e diferenças entre homens e mulheres foram robustas. Não heterossexualidades foram mais prevalentes em gerações mais jovens.
Representaciones sociales de la influenza humana de adolescentes de la ciudad de Guadalajara, México
Authors: Torres-López Teresa Margarita , Núñez-Sandoval Yocelin Celeste , De la Cruz-Villarreal Antonio De Jesús
Published: June 2017

El objetivo del estudio es analizar las representaciones sociales (RS) de la influenza humana que poseen adolescentes de Guadalajara, México, durante la epidemia del 2009 y ante la presencia de un brote a inicios del 2016. Se aplicó la técnica asociativa de listados libres a 112 adolescentes, para conocer la estructura de las RS a través de un análisis prototípico y el contenido con un análisis procesual. Los hallazgos muestran que las RS de la influenza en el 2009 se encontraban en proceso de construcción; son contradictorias, al calificarla de peligrosa a la vez que se le considera una mentira o exageración. Por otro lado, en 2016, las RS parecen haberse resignificado en torno a los síntomas, atención y posibles consecuencias.
Influencia de la motivación hacia el deporte en el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y cannabis de adolescentes escolares
Authors: Usán Pablo , Salavera Carlos
Published: June 2017

Uno de los problemas más graves a los que se enfrenta la sociedad actual resulta el consumo de drogas por parte de la población infantil y juvenil. La práctica deportiva puede actuar como factor de prevención del consumo; se la considera como uno de los hábitos más representativos de un estilo de vida saludable. Por ello, el objetivo del estudio es analizar la relación e influencia de la motivación hacia la práctica deportiva en el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y cannabis de adolescentes deportistas escolares. Los resultados desprenden influencias significativas de motivaciones intrínsecas, extrínsecas y falta de motivación en las diferentes prevalencias de consumo en unos patrones de comportamiento más o menos autodeterminados y adaptativos.
The Role of Empowerment on Residents’ Attitudes Displayed toward a Casino in the Community
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Lee Min-Jae , Seo Won-Seok , Kim Jin-Young
Published: June 2017

This paper investigated the role of psycho-social and political empowerment on residents’ attitudes toward community casino industry. By doing so, we theoretically complemented social exchange theory and provided practical implications. In contrast to the extant literature that examined residents’ attitudes toward tourism development, psychological empowerment and social empowerment were identified as a single factor in the confirmatory factor analysis for attitudes toward casinos. This psychosocial empowerment was found to affect positively to positive attitudes and negatively to negative attitudes. The perceived economic benefit only positively affected positive attitudes. Suggesting that the opportunities to voice a residents’ opinion serve as ways to address the concerns for casinos, political empowerment was found to have a positive impact on the negative attitudes. However, in the larger sense, political empowerment had no significant impact on support for casinos while psychosocial empowerment had the biggest total impact. The results imply that unless the local residents are empowered psychosocially, it would be difficult to draw their support for the casinos.
Performing Arts Selection Factors and Their Effects on Non-Mainstream Performances Viewership
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Shin Hye-Sung , Han Ju-Hee
Published: June 2017

This study uses the Theory of Reasoned Action to analyze how selection factors for non-mainstream performance affect viewing intentions. The model studies selection factors were informational, situational, and personal. The study also considered the factors within the Theory of Reasoned Behavior including attitudes, subjective norms, and behavior intention. 303 surveys were collected from people that experienced an arts performance. The results were as follows: First, the suggested model was statistically significant, and the selection factors for performing arts showed high potential for being used within the Theory of Reasoned action model. It suggested great possibilities for future behaviors in terms of viewing intentions. Second, personal factors positively affected the subjective norm, while attitudes and subjective norms both suggested significant levels toward behavior intentions. From these results, this study deducted implications and limitations for further research. It also suggested directions for future studies.