bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azobenzene-Based Gel Coated Fibre Bragg Grating Sensor for Moisture Measurement
Authors: Moniruzzaman Mohammed , Rock John
Published: August 2016

A fibre Bragg grating sensor is coated with a novel polymer gel in order to investigate its suitability for nondestructive measurement of moisture in materials that can potentially lose their integrity due to moisture ingress. Absorption and desorption of moisture lead to swelling/shrinkage of an azobenzene-based gel, which induces a strain in the Bragg grating resulting in wavelength shifts. The results demonstrated that the amount of wavelength shift is linearly dependent on the amount of water ingress by the gel. The performance of the proposed optical fibre moisture sensor was found to be repeatable with no detectable hysteresis and has the potential to offer a low-cost route for monitoring moisture content.
Performance Estimation Based Multicriteria Partitioning Approach for Dynamic Dataflow Programs
Authors: Michalska Małgorzata , Zufferey Nicolas , Mattavelli Marco
Published: August 2016

The problem of partitioning a dataflow program onto a target architecture is a difficult challenge for any application design. In general, since the problem is NP-complete, it consists of looking for high quality solutions in terms of maximizing the achievable data throughput. The difficulty is given by the exploration of the design space which results in being extremely large for parallel platforms. The paper describes a heuristic partitioning methodology applicable to dynamic dataflow programs. The methodology is based on two elements: an execution model of the dynamic dataflow program which is used as estimation of the performance for the exploration of the large design space and several partitioning algorithms competing to lead to specific high quality solutions. Experimental results are validated with executions on a virtual platform.
Effect of Spinal Cord Stimulation on Gait in a Patient with Thalamic Pain
Authors: Yozu Arito , Sumitani Masahiko , Shin Masahiro , Ishi Kazuhiko , Osumi Michihiro , Katsuhira Junji , Chiba Ryosuke , Haga Nobuhiko
Published: August 2016

Thalamic pain is a central neuropathic pain disorder which occurs after stroke. Its severe chronic pain is often intractable to pharmacotherapies and affects the patients’ activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life (QOL). Recently, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been reported to be effective in relieving the pain of thalamic pain; however, the effect of SCS on gait performance in patients is unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the gait performance before and after SCS in a case with thalamic pain. A 73-year-old male with thalamic pain participated in this study. We evaluated the gait of the patient two times: before SCS insertion and after 6 days of SCS. At the second evaluation, we measured the gait in three conditions: stimulation off, comfortable stimulation, and strong stimulation. SCS succeeded in improving the pain from 7 to 2 on an 11-point numerical rating scale. Step frequency and the velocity of gait tended to increase between pre- and poststimulation periods. There were no apparent differences in gait among the three stimulation conditions (off, comfortable, and strong) at the poststimulation period. SCS may be effective on gait in patients with thalamic pain.
Analysis of Linear Piecewise Constant Delay Systems Using a Hybrid Numerical Scheme
Authors: Marzban H. R. , Hoseini S. M.
Published: August 2016

An efficient computational technique for solving linear delay differential equations with a piecewise constant delay function is presented. The new approach is based on a hybrid of block-pulse functions and Legendre polynomials. A key feature of the proposed framework is the excellent representation of smooth and especially piecewise smooth functions. The operational matrices of delay, derivative, and product corresponding to the mentioned hybrid functions are implemented to transform the original problem into a system of algebraic equations. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed numerical scheme.
Improved Bonding Strength of Hydroxyapatite on Titanium Dioxide Nanotube Arrays following Alkaline Pretreatment for Orthopedic Implants
Authors: Parcharoen Yardnapar , Termsuksawad Preecha , Sirivisoot Sirinrath
Published: August 2016

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a bioactive bone substitute used in biomedical applications. One approach to use HA for bone implant application is to coat it on titanium (Ti) implant. However, adhesion of HA on Ti is major concern for their long-term use in orthopedic implants. To enhance the adhesion strength of HA coating on titanium (Ti), the surface of the Ti was anodized and alkaline pretreated prior to coating on Ti by electrodeposition. Alkaline pretreatment of titanium dioxide nanotubes (ATi) accelerated the formation of HA, which mimicked the features and structure of natural bone tissue. Nanostructured HA formed on the ATi and pretreated ATi (P-ATi), unlike on conventional Ti. This study is the first to show that the bonding of HA coating to a P-ATi substrate was stronger than those of HA coating to Ti and to ATi. The preosteoblast response tests were also conducted. The results indicated that HA coating improved preosteoblast proliferation after 3 days in standard cell culture.
A Mathematical Model with Quarantine States for the Dynamics of Ebola Virus Disease in Human Populations
Authors: Ngwa Gideon A. , Teboh-Ewungkem Miranda I.
Published: August 2016

A deterministic ordinary differential equation model for the dynamics and spread of Ebola Virus Disease is derived and studied. The model contains quarantine and nonquarantine states and can be used to evaluate transmission both in treatment centres and in the community. Possible sources of exposure to infection, including cadavers of Ebola Virus victims, are included in the model derivation and analysis. Our model’s results show that there exists a threshold parameter,R0, with the property that when its value is above unity, an endemic equilibrium exists whose value and size are determined by the size of this threshold parameter, and when its value is less than unity, the infection does not spread into the community. The equilibrium state, when it exists, is locally and asymptotically stable with oscillatory returns to the equilibrium point. The basic reproduction number,R0, is shown to be strongly dependent on the initial response of the emergency services to suspected cases of Ebola infection. When intervention measures such as quarantining are instituted fully at the beginning, the value of the reproduction number reduces and any further infections can only occur at the treatment centres. Effective control measures, to reduceR0to values below unity, are discussed.
The Change in HbA1c Associated with Initial Adherence and Subsequent Change in Adherence among Diabetes Patients Newly Initiating Metformin Therapy
Authors: Nichols Gregory A. , Rosales A. Gabriela , Kimes Teresa M. , Tunceli Kaan , Kurtyka Karen , Mavros Panagiotis
Published: August 2016

Introduction. Whetherchangesin adherence are associated withchangesin HbA1c is assumed but not known.Methods. We conducted a observational study of 2,844 type 2 diabetes patients who initiated metformin as their first antihyperglycemic drug. Using HbA1c measures before, 6–12 months after, and up to 3 years after metformin initiation, we analyzed HbA1c change as a function of initial adherence and change in adherence.Results. Compared with no adherence, initial adherence of 50–79% was associated with an adjusted reduction in HbA1c of 0.45% while adherence ≥80% was associated with HbA1c reduction of 0.73%. Change from some initial adherence (1–79%) to total nonadherence was associated with 0.25% increase in HbA1c. Change from some to full adherence was associated with an HbA1c decrease of 0.15%. Those associations were accentuated among patients not in glycemic control: change from some to no adherence was associated with an HbA1c increase of 0.63% and change from some to full adherence was associated with an HbA1c decrease of 0.40%.Conclusions. Initial adherence to newly prescribed metformin therapy produces substantial HbA1c reduction. Among those with modest adherence but suboptimal glycemic control, the difference between moving to full adherence versus nonadherence results in lower HbA1c of one percentage point.
A Case of Vaginal Stillbirth in the Presence of Placenta Previa at 33 Weeks of Gestation
Authors: Chinen Yukiko , Kinjo Tadatsugu , Nitta Hayase , Kinjo Yui , Masamoto Hitoshi , Aoki Yoichi
Published: August 2016

It was demonstrated that second- and third-trimester therapeutic termination of pregnancy (TOP) is feasible in cases with placenta previa. We report a 34-year-old woman with complex fetal malformations associated with placenta previa. An ultrasound examination at 21 weeks of gestation revealed fetal growth restriction (FGR) and complex fetal malformations associated with a placenta previa. After extensive information, the parents opted for careful observation. Thereafter, FGR gradually progressed and we observed arrest of end-diastolic velocity of the umbilical artery. Finally, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) was confirmed at 33 weeks of gestation. Two days after IUFD, the patient experienced labor pain. The placenta and dead fetus weighing 961 g were vaginally delivered, and total bleeding was 270 mL. Although further studies to confirm the dynamic change of the uteroplacental blood flow are necessary to avoid the risk of maternal hemorrhage, vaginal TOP with placenta previa after feticide or IUFD would be feasible.
Second-Trimester Anterior Cervical Angle in a Low-Risk Population as a Marker for Spontaneous Preterm Delivery
Authors: Sepúlveda-Martínez Alvaro , Díaz Francisco , Muñoz Hernán , Valdés Enrique , Parra-Cordero Mauro
Published: August 2016

Objective: The aim of this article is to assess the use of the anterior cervical angle (ACA) as a predictor of spontaneous preterm delivery (sPTD) at 20+0-24+6 weeks of gestation in an unselected population. Methods: We conducted a nested case-control study that included 93 women who later delivered spontaneously <34 weeks of gestation and 225 controls. The ACA was assessed retrospectively on all selected images using ImageJ® software. The concordance correlation coefficient was determined for the assessment of interobserver variability. Continuous variables were adjusted by maternal characteristics and expressed as the z-score or multiples of the expected normal median (MoM) of the unaffected group. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate whether any maternal characteristics and ultrasound variables were significantly associated with sPTD <34 weeks. Results: ACA z-score values were significantly greater in women who later delivered <34 weeks compared to controls (ACA z-score = 1.32 ± 0.57 vs. -0.09 ± 0.35; p = 0.035). The best prediction of sPTD <34 weeks was provided by a model that combined cervical length (CL) MoM, ACA z-score and maternal characteristics. For a fixed false-positive rate of 10%, the detection rate for this model was 37.6%. Conclusion: A model combining maternal history, CL and ACA at 20+0-24+6 weeks of gestation can predict approximately 40% of the severe preterm births.
Stimulation of Eryptosis by Caspofungin
Authors: Peter Thomas , Bissinger Rosi , Lang Florian
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: The echinocandin antifungal agent caspofungin has been shown to trigger apoptosis of fungal cells. Beyond that, caspofungin is toxic for host mitochondria. Even though lacking mitochondria, erythrocytes may enter apoptosis-like suicidal erythrocyte death or eryptosis, characterized by cell shrinkage and cell membrane scrambling with phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Signaling involved in triggering of eryptosis include increase of cytosolic Ca2+ activity ([Ca2+]i), oxidative stress, ceramide, caspase activation and/or activation of p38 kinase, protein kinase C, and casein kinase. The present study explored, whether caspofungin induces eryptosis and, if so, to shed some light on the cellular mechanisms involved. Methods: Flow cytometry was employed to determine phosphatidylserine exposure at the cell surface from annexin-V-binding, cell volume from forward scatter, [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence, ROS formation from DCFDA dependent fluorescence, and ceramide abundance utilizing specific antibodies. Hemolysis was quantified from hemoglobin concentration in the supernatant. Results: A 48 hours exposure of human erythrocytes to caspofungin (≥ 30 µg/ml) significantly increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells, significantly decreased forward scatter, significantly enhanced hemolysis, but did not significantly increase Fluo3-fluorescence, DCFDA fluorescence or ceramide abundance. The effect of caspofungin on annexin-V-binding was not significantly blunted by removal of extracellular Ca2+, by inhibition of caspases with pancaspase inhibitor zVAD (10 µM), or by addition of the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (1 mM), p38 kinase inhibitor SB203580 (2 µM) or protein kinase C inhibitor staurosporine (1 µM). The effect of caspofungin on annexin-V-binding was, however, significantly blunted in the presence of casein kinase inhibitor D4476 (10 µM). Conclusions: Caspofungin triggers cell shrinkage and phospholipid scrambling of the erythrocyte cell membrane, an effect possibly involving activation of casein kinase.
Prognostic and Diagnostic Significance of SDPR-Cavin-2 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jing Wei , Luo Ping , Zhu Man , Ai Qian , Chai Hongyan , Tu Jiancheng
Published: August 2016

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor worldwide. Due to the lack of early prediction marker, numerous patients were diagnosed in their late stage. The family of cavins plays important roles in caveolae formation and cellular processes. Cavin-2, one of the members of cavins, has been reported as a suppresser in cancers. In this study, we have investigated its expression pattern and clinical significance in HCC. Methods: RT‑qPCR was performed to detect the expression of cavin-2. Results: Cavin-2 was down-regulated in HCC and associated with tumor differentiation (r=-0.275, P=0.013) and tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage (r=-0.216, P=0.035). The Overall survival analysis showed that patients with lower cavin-2 expression had a relatively poor prognosis. Meanwhile, the multivariate analysis revealed that cavin-2 was an independent prognostic factor. The receiver operating characteristic curve analyses indicated that plasma cavin-2 presented a high accuracy (AUC=0.727, 0.865, 0.901) for diagnosing HCC cases from controls, hepatitis B and cirrhosis patients, respectively. Meanwhile, plasma cavin-2 showed a high sensitivity (88.4%, 89.9%) for detecting HCC with the serum α‑fetoprotein (AFP) levels below 200 ng/ml from those hepatitis B and cirrhosis cases. Conclusion: Our data suggested that cavin-2 might be considered as a potential prognostic and diagnostic indicator in HCC.
MCPIP-1, Alias Regnase-1, Controls Epithelial Inflammation by Posttranscriptional Regulation of IL-8 Production
Authors: Dobosz Ewelina , Wilamowski Mateusz , Lech Maciej , Bugara Beata , Jura Jolanta , Potempa Jan , Koziel Joanna
Published: August 2016

Pattern recognition receptors are critical for the detection of invading microorganisms. They activate multiple pathways that lead to the induction of proinflammatory responses and pathogen clearance. The intensity and duration of this immune reaction must be tightly controlled spatially and temporally in every tissue by different negative regulators. We hypothesized that monocyte chemoattractant protein-1-induced protein-1 (MCPIP-1) might play a role in maintaining immune homeostasis in the epithelium both under physiological conditions and upon bacterial infection. To this end, we examined the distribution of the MCPIP-1 transcript and protein in various tissues. The MCPIP-1 protein level was higher in epithelial cells than in myeloid cells. MCPIP-1 exerted RNase activity towards the interleukin (IL)-8 transcript and the lifespan of IL-8 was determined by the presence of the stem-loops/hairpin structures at the 3′UTR region of IL-8 mRNA. Moreover, using fully active, purified recombinant MCPIP-1 protein, we elucidated the mechanism by which MCPIP-1 controls the IL-8 mRNA level. In conclusion, we uncovered a novel IL-8-dependent mechanism via which MCPIP-1 maintains epithelial homeostasis. This study reveals for the first time that MCPIP-1 plays a crucial anti-inflammatory role not only in myeloid cells but also in epithelial cells.
Editorial
Authors: Almeida Marco Antonio De
Published: August 2016

1Número especial: Arte da BibliografiaInCID: R. Ci. Inf. e Doc., Ribeirão Preto, v. 7, n. esp., p. 1-2, ago. 2016
A Arte da Bibliografia: uma pequena apresentação
Authors: Crippa Giulia
Published: August 2016

Seminário internacional A arte da bibliografia
Intraindividual Comparison of Everolimus-Eluting Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffolds Versus Drug-Eluting Metallic Stents
Authors: Cassese Salvatore , Hoppmann Petra , Kufner Sebastian , Byrne Robert A. , Wiebe Jens , Colleran Roisin , Giacoppo Daniele , Harada Yukinori , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Schunkert, Heribert , Fusaro Massimiliano , Kastrati Adnan
Published: August 2016

Background—

The performance of everolimus-eluting bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) versus drug-eluting metallic stent (DES) in the same individual receiving multilesion percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains poorly studied. This report investigates the intraindividual performance of BVS and DES in patients receiving multilesion PCI and follow-up angiography.

Methods and Results—

Data of patients undergoing BVS implantation for de novo lesions from 2012 to 2014 at 2 centers in Munich, Germany, were prospectively collected. Individuals receiving multilesion PCI with BVS and DES and follow-up angiography at 6 to 8 months were studied. Primary end point was in-device late lumen loss. Secondary end points were binary restenosis, target lesion revascularization, and definite stent/scaffold thrombosis. A total of 90 PCI patients with 239 lesions received BVS (n=112) and DES (n=127). Follow-up angiography after a median of 6.6 months (5.8–7.1) showed a higher degree of late lumen loss in lesions treated with BVS versus DES (0.30±0.59 versus 0.22±0.48 mm;
P
=0.035). However, the adjustment for baseline angiographic imbalances discarded an influence of stent type on late lumen loss (
P
=0.82). At the same time point, binary restenosis was comparable between BVS and DES (7.8% versus 8.9%;
P
=0.90). After a median of 13.2 months (9.2–17.6), target lesion revascularization (9.8% versus 10.2%;
P
=0.97) and definite stent/scaffold thrombosis (2.7% versus 1.6%;
P
=0.48) did not differ between BVS and DES.

Conclusions—

In patients receiving multilesion PCI, BVS displays acceptable intraindividual performance compared with DES. Larger trials, extended follow-up, and continuous device iteration remain essential to improve BVS technology.
Sovereignty issues in the Caucasus: contested ethnic and national identities in Chechnya, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia
Authors: Rukhadze Vasili , Duerr Glen
Published: August 2016

Sovereignty issues in the Caucasus: contested ethnic and national identities in Chechnya, Abkhazia, and South OssetiaThe issue of sovereignty has been at the forefront of regional politics in the Caucasus since the dissolution of the USSR in 1991. In particular, the Russian government has approached various—seemingly similar cases—in very different ways. Although each specific region examined—Chechnya, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia—is unique, the nature of ethnic and national identity has been framed differently by the Russian government. In Chechnya, the Putin administration has framed any outstanding separatist claims in conjunction with terrorism and national security issues. In Abkhazia and South Ossetia, the Putin administration has instead noted the need for “liberation.” The outcome has been to stifle secessionist desires in Chechnya, while supporting those same secessionist desires outside of Russia’s borders, in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Kwestia suwerenności na Kaukazie: kontestowane tożsamości etniczne i narodowe w Czeczenii, Abchazji i Osetii PołudniowejKwestia suwerenności wysunęła się na czołowe miejsce w polityce regionalnej na Kaukazie z chwilą rozpadu Związku Sowieckiego w 1991 roku. W istocie rząd rosyjski do poszczególnych, pozornie podobnych, przypadków podszedł w odmienny sposób. Aczkolwiek każdy z interesujących nas tutaj regionów – Czeczenia, Abchazja i Osetia Południowa – jest unikatowy, to charakter tożsamości etnicznej i narodowej został ujęty przez rząd rosyjski w inne ramy. W Czeczenii administracja Putina wiązała wysuwane tam roszczenia separatystyczne z terroryzmem i kwestiami bezpieczeństwa narodowego. Z kolei w Abchazji i Osetii Południowej Rosja dostrzegła potrzebę „wyzwolenia”. W efekcie nastąpiło stłumienie aspiracji do secesji w Czeczenii, podczas gdy poza granicami Rosji, w Abchazji i Osetii Południowej, te same dążenia secesjonistyczne zyskały sobie poparcie.
Theorizing Polish migration across Europe: perspectives, concepts, and methodologies
Authors: M. Goździak Elżbieta , Pawlak Marek
Published: August 2016

Theorizing Polish migration across Europe: perspectives, concepts, and methodologiesWith the focus on the post-2004 mobility of Polish citizens, in this article we discuss two interrelated questions; namely, what are the most productive ways to theorize contemporary Polish migration, and what are the most fruitful methodologies aimed at understanding Polish migration and Poles on the move? In the first part of this article we unpack three interrelated theoretical frameworks: ‘liquid migration’, ‘regimes of mobility,’ and ‘transnationalism’. The methodological discussion in the second part of the article focuses mainly on outlining and contextualizing the most common approaches to migration phenomena. By critically introducing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, we explore and indicate the advantages of the ethnographic perspective and the merits and predicaments of research engagement in multiple sites. Polskie migracje w Europie: perspektywy, koncepcje, metodologieZ naciskiem na mobilność obywateli polskich po przyłączeniu Polski do Unii Europejskiej w 2004 roku, w niniejszym artykule staramy się odpowiedzieć na dwa powiązane ze sobą pytania: jakie są najbardziej wydajne sposoby teoretyzowania współczesnej migracji polskiej oraz jakie są najbardziej owocne metody badawcze mające na celu zrozumienie polskiej migracji po akcesji do UE? W pierwszej części artykułu przedstawiamy więc trzy powiązane ze sobą koncepcje teoretyczne: „płynna migracja”, „reżimy mobilności” oraz transnarodowość. Dyskusja metodologiczna w drugiej części artykułu skupia się natomiast głównie na przedstawieniu najczęściej stosowanej metodyki i metodologii w badaniach zjawisk migracyjnych. Wprowadzając krytyczną perspektywę na temat ilościowych i jakościowych metod badawczych, staramy się wskazać wartość poznawczą perspektywy etnograficznej oraz wady i zalety etnograficznego zaangażowania badawczego w wielu miejscach.
Główne teorie migracji międzynarodowych: przegląd, krytyka, perspektywy
Authors: Jaskułowski Krzysztof , Pawlak Marek
Published: August 2016

Key theories of international migrations: overview, critique and perspectivesThe article aims at critical review of the key theories of international migration. The starting point is the assumption that a critical review of theoretical literature is a necessary component of the research process, especially regarding such rapidly growing field as migration studies. The authors analyze the most important theories developed in migration studies (economic theories, structural-historical theories, migration networks and transnationalism) by pointing out their historical contexts, drawbacks and limitations. At the same time they indicate the new research perspectives, which include relations between migration theory and a broader social context as well as the dialectic of mobility and immobility. Główne teorie migracji międzynarodowych: przegląd, krytyka, perspektywyArtykuł ma na celu krytyczny przegląd głównych teorii migracji międzynarodowych. Punktem wyjścia jest założenie, że krytyczne przeglądy teoretycznej literatury stanowią niezbędny element procesu badawczego, zwłaszcza w tak żywiołowo rozwijającej się dziedzinie jak studia migracyjne. Autorzy analizują najważniejsze koncepcje wypracowane w ramach badań migracyjnych: teorie ekonomiczne, strukturalno-historyczne, sieci migracyjnych i transnacjonalizmu. Pokazują kontekst historyczny oraz wady i ograniczenia każdej z teorii wskazując nowe perspektywy badawcze: powiązania teorii migracji z szerszym kontekstem społecznym i dialektyką mobilności/braku mobilności.
Procesy formowania narodów i tożsamości narodowej w Ameryce Łacińskiej
Authors: Kaganiec-Kamieńska Anna
Published: August 2016

Nation and national identity formation in Latin America. Selected issues The history of nation formation in Latin America cannot be easily interpreted within the frames of existing theoretical perspectives, such as modernism. The difficulty lies in the fact that the existing theories only partly apply to this region. The aim of this article is to present the processes of nation and national identity formation in Spanish America until the 1950s pointing to its main characteristics and selected factors of the most significant impact. Procesy formowania narodów i tożsamości narodowej w Ameryce ŁacińskiejHistoria powstawania narodów w Ameryce Łacińskiej nie daje się jednoznacznie zinterpretować w ramach istniejących schematów i ujęć teoretycznych (np. modernizmu). Trudność polega na tym, że znajdują one jedynie częściowe zastosowanie w odniesieniu do Ameryki Łacińskiej. Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie procesów tworzenia narodów i tożsamości narodowej w Ameryce hiszpańskiej do połowy XX w. z uwzględnieniem wybranych głównych cech tego procesu i czynników, które miały na niego wpływ.
Europa Środkowa – wspólnota tekstów. Intertekstualność jako przestrzeń funkcjonowania i podtrzymywania mitu środkowoeuropejskiego
Authors: Upalevski Ilija
Published: August 2016

Central Europe – a community of texts. Intertextuality as a  plane of functioning and maintaining the myth of Central EuropeIn this article I examine two primary (sets of) questions:1. How, why and by whom the concept of Central Europe has been (re)constructed, (re)defined and (re)imagined within the field of literature in the course of the 20th century(?); and2. Through what transformations this concept has gone during the major social and political shifts in the region(?). In order to do so I am employing Roland Barthes’ semiological approach on myth in the analysis of the texts in which concept and the myth of Central Europe is constituted. I argue that these texts, creating the myth of Central Europe, use/adopt/resemantize texts/signs which previously functioned in other semiological systems. While the so called Habsburg Myth is its core structural element, the myth of Central Europe adopts/reinterprets even such cultural texts in relation to which it stands in ideological opposition – for example the myth of national tragedy. Referring to the concept of discourse community, introduced and developed in the linguistics and literary theory by John Swales, as well as to the concept of intertextuality, I argue that Central Europe can be approached as a community of texts within which the notion of the Central-Europeanness is (re)evaluated, (re)imagined and thus historically maintained. Europa Środkowa – wspólnota tekstów. Intertekstualność jako przestrzeń funkcjonowania i podtrzymywania mitu środkowoeuropejskiegoW niniejszym artykule zajmuję się pytaniami: jak, dlaczego i przez kogo pojęcie Europy Środkowej zostało społecznie zrekonstruowane w literaturze regionu na przestrzeni XX wieku oraz jak przybiegała jego transmisja/dystrybucja w zmieniających się kontekstach społeczno-politycznych. By odpowiedzieć na te pytania, semiologiczne podejście do mitu Rolanda Barthesa zostanie zastosowane w analizie tekstów budujących pojęcia, ale także mit Europy Środkowej. Analiza ta ma pokazać, że myślenie w kategoriach Europy Środkowej aktywizuje się w chwili dodatkowej semantyzacji znaków/tekstów istniejących już wcześniej w innych systemach semiologicznych. Podczas gdy tzw. mit habsburski jest jego podstawowym elementem strukturalnym, mit Europy Środkowej nawiązuje także do takich tekstów kultury, w stosunku do których stoi w opozycji – na przykład mit tragedii narodowej. Odwołując się do koncepcji wspólnoty dyskursywnej, wprowadzonej do językoznawstwa i teorii literatury przez Johna Swalesa, jak również do pojęcia intertekstualności, zakładam, że Europa Środkowa istnieje w postaci pewnej wspólnoty tekstów, w której pojęcie środkowoeuropejskości jest negocjowane, oceniane i wyobrażane na nowo.
Konflikty etniczne w świetle socjologii klasycznej i psychologii społecznej (na przykładzie Kresów południowo-wschodnich II Rzeczypospolitej)
Authors: Pomarańska Renata
Published: August 2016

Ethnic conflict in the view of classical sociology and social psychology (on the example of south-eastern Borderlands of the Second Polish Republic)The article was designed to demonstrate that social conflicts, especially ethnic ones, which belong to many factors of martyrdom. Thus, it was structured at four points. The considered topics led to the conclusion that the social and ethnic issues belong to the diverse  and complex topics. It is shown in theories of classics of sociology and contemporary theoreticians dealing with the ethnic conflicts in the aspect of sociology and social psychology. Konflikty etniczne w świetle socjologii klasycznej i psychologii społecznej (na przykładzie Kresów południowo-wschodnich II Rzeczypospolitej)Celem artykułu jest wykazanie, że konflikty społeczne, zwłaszcza te, które przyjmują postać konfliktów etnicznych, stanowią jedną z wielu przyczyn martyrologii. Artykuł został podzielony na cztery części. Rozpatrywane zagadnienia prowadzą do wniosku, że problemy społeczne i etniczne są zróżnicowane i złożone, jak wykazano w teorii klasyków socjologii oraz współczesnych teoretyków zajmujących się konfliktami etnicznymi z punktu widzenia socjologii i psychologii społecznej.
Działania krymskotatarskiego ruchu narodowowyzwoleńczego w warunkach aneksji Krymu (na przykładzie blokady półwyspu)
Authors: Voytyuk Oksana
Published: August 2016

The actions of Crimean Tatars national liberation movement under сonditions of annexation of the Crimea (example of Crimea blockade)In 2015, due to the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the world, the issue of annexation of the Crimea gave way to such news as the political situation in Syria, and Russia's participation in hostilities in this country, the imposition of sanctions on Russia and their impact on the Russian economy, falling oil prices and its effects, the situation with refugees in the European Union. To draw attention to the problem of the annexation of the Crimea and Crimean Tatars Mejlis and its chairman Refat Chubarov and political leader of the Crimean Tatars Mustafa Dzhemilev initiated a peace action of blockade of Crimea. Blockade had two stages – transporto and food blockade and energy blockade. The action ended with the start of 2016 year. Regardless that Crimean Tatars failed to achieve the main goal - to release all political prisoners, blockade showed how high there is peninsula’s dependence from Ukraine's economy. Działania krymskotatarskiego ruchu narodowowyzwoleńczego w warunkach aneksji Krymu (na przykładzie blokady półwyspu)W 2015 roku, w związku z dynamicznie zmieniającą się sytuacją polityczną i gospodarczą na świecie, kwestia aneksji Krymu ustąpiła miejsca takim wiadomościom jak sytuacja w Syrii i udział Rosji w działaniach wojennych na terenie tego kraju, nałożenie sankcji na Rosję oraz ich wpływ na rosyjską gospodarkę, spadek cen ropy naftowej i jego skutki, sytuacja z uchodźcami w Unii Europejskiej. Celem zwrócenia uwagi na aneksję Krymu i problem Tatarów Krymskich, Medżlis z siedzibą w Kijowie przewodniczącym Refatem Czubarowym i politycznym przywódcą Tatarów Krymskich Mustafą Dżemilewym inicjowali bezterminową pokojową akcję blokady Krymu. Blokada miała dwa etapy – transportowo-towarowy i energetyczny. Akcja zakończyła się wraz z rozpoczęciem 2016 roku. Bez względu na to, że nie udało się osiągnąć głównego celu – uwolnienia więźniów politycznych, blokada pokazała wysoki stopień zależności półwyspu od gospodarki Ukrainy.
Czy jesteśmy „ludzkim zoo”?
Authors: Wrzesińska Katarzyna
Published: August 2016

Are we "human zoo"?Review: The Invention of Race. Scientific and Popular Representation, N. Bancel, T. David, D. Thomas (ed.), Routlege: New York-Abington, 2014, ss. 320.The book under review is a collection of articles presenting the functioning of the idea of the human race in the scientific, social and cultural backgrounds. The main purpose is to demonstrate how the concept of race have circulated from the late 18th century in scholarship as well as in popular reception. Thus the authors focus their attention on the so-called ethnological expositions (such as Negro or Eskimo Villages) organized on the occasion of world‘s fairs, today known as “human zoo.” On the social level, this helped support the conviction of the supremacy of the white race.  Czy jesteśmy  „ludzkim zoo”?Recenzja: The Invention of Race. Scientific and Popular Representation, N. Bancel, T. David, D. Thomas (ed.), Routlege: New York-Abington, 2014, ss. 320.Recenzowana praca zawiera zbiór artykułów poświęconych przedstawieniu funkcjonowania koncepcji podziału ludzkości na rasy na szerokim tle: naukowym, społecznym i kulturowym. Główny cel stanowi zobrazowanie procesu cyrkulacji idei rasy – od ujęć naukowych począwszy od końca XVIII w. aż do ukazania problemu na płaszczyźnie odbioru masowego. Tu obiektem zainteresowań badawczych stały się tzw. ekspozycje etnologiczne (np. wioski murzyńskie, eskimoskie) organizowane przy okazji wystaw światowych, określane dzisiaj mianem „ludzkich zoo”. Płaszczyzna ta przyczyniła się do utrwalenia w świadomości społecznej poczucia supremacji białej rasy.
Dome shape optimization of filament-wound composite pressure vessels based on hyperelliptic functions considering both geodesic and non-geodesic winding patterns
Authors: Zhou Ji , Chen Jianqiao , Zheng Yaochen , Wang Zhu , An Qunli
Published: August 2016

Filament-wound composite pressure vessels, owing to the advantages of their high specific strength, specific modulus and fatigue resistance, as well as excellent design performance, have been widely used in energy engineering, chemical industry and other fields. A filament-wound composite pressure vessel generally consists of two parts, a cylindrical drum part and the dome parts. In the cylindrical drum part, the filament winding angle and the winding layer thickness can be easily determined due to the regular shape. In the dome parts, however, both the winding angle and the thickness vary along the meridian line. Performance of the dome parts, which strongly depends on the effect of end-opening and the winding mode, dominates the performance of a pressure vessel. In this paper, optimum design of the dome parts is studied by considering both geodesic winding and non-geodesic winding patterns. A hyperelliptic function is adopted as the basis function for describing the meridian of the dome shape. The dome contour is optimized by taking the shape factor (S.F.) as the objective and parameters in the basis function as the design variables. A specific composite pressure vessel is taken as the numerical analysis example with varying dome shape which is to be optimized. The optimum design solution is obtained through the particle swarm optimization algorithm. It shows that an optimized dome with non-geodesic winding has better S.F. as compared with geodesic winding. Influences of the slippage coefficient and the polar opening on the S.F. are also discussed.
Effect of kenaf fibers on trauma penetration depth and ballistic impact resistance for laminated composites
Authors: Salman Suhad D , Leman Z , Sultan MTH , Ishak MR , Cardona F
Published: August 2016

Combat helmets have been utilized to provide protection against a variety of ballistic threats, by reducing traumatic head injuries and fatalities. Nevertheless, head protection from injury is critical to function and for survivability. Soldiers and civilians incur Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) most commonly from exposure to homemade bombs or improvised explosive devices. Although the Personal Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) helmet is expensive, environmental issues are some technical advantages that encourage using natural/synthetic hybrid laminated composites. The effects of different configuration patterns of kenaf fibers on the Backface Signature and energy absorbed by a military helmet (PASGT) were investigated. The ballistic behaviors of the 19 layers of aramid composite and plain woven kenaf composite were compared to hybrid laminated composites. The ballistic impact tests were performed using a 9 mm full metal jacket bullet and fragment simulating projectiles at various impact velocities, using a powder gun on fabricated square panels and helmets. The results showed the positive effect of hybridization in terms of energy absorbed (i.e. penetration), Backface Signature and damage mechanisms for ballistic impact and NIJ (National Institute of Justice) tests. Hybridization of plain woven kenaf/Kevlar laminated composites will open new avenues to reduce the dependency on the ballistic resistance component (Kevlar) in the helmet shell.
Investigating Characteristics of the Nonrecidivating Psychopathic Offender
Authors: Burt Grant N. , Olver Mark E. , Wong Stephen C. P.
Published: August 2016

Psychopathic offenders are at higher risk to violently reoffend than nonpsychopathic offenders; however, about one in four psychopathic offenders are not reconvicted for a violent offense even over extended follow-ups. The characteristics of nonrecidivating psychopathic offenders (NRPs) remain underexamined. In a sample of 123 offenders with a minimum Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R) score of 25, community follow-up of 5 years, and 4 months in a violence reduction program, 65 men receiving a violent conviction within 5 years (recidivating psychopathic offenders [RPs]) were compared with 58 who had not (NRPs). Comparatively, NRPs were older at release, had better community support, and were rated lower violence risk. NRPs also had significantly lower PCL-R Factor 2 scores, but higher Factor 1 scores. Post hoc analyses revealed prominent NRP characteristics included exploitative personality traits and a predilection for instrumentally violent crimes. Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for the risk assessment and treatment of psychopathic offenders.
Collaborative Governance in Health and Technology Policy: The Use and Effects of Procedural Policy Instruments
Authors: Lang Achim
Published: August 2016

Stimulating technological innovations and limiting access to expensive health technology require the coordination and coherence of overlapping policy sub-systems: research, market access, and reimbursement. This study investigates which procedural policy instruments proved more successful in integrating collaborative governance arrangements in Great Britain and Germany. A new classification of procedural policy instruments is developed based on the targeted dimensions of collaborative governance (network structure and policy phase). The comparative analysis rests on expert interviews and meeting records and reveals that, in Great Britain, active leadership prevails during the consultations, while Germany, in contrast, presents a case of inconsistent governance.
Triangulation processes experienced by children in contemporary China
Authors: Wang Meiping , Liu Siwei , Belsky Jay
Published: August 2016

Most family-system research on triangulation processes has been undertaken in the West, with little known about this family dynamic in the East. The present cross-sectional study analysed 1,073 Chinese 3rd–12th-graders’ self-reported exposure to three kinds of triangulation—cross-generation coalition, scapegoating, and parentification—in relation to family and child factors and with respect to children’s school and social adjustment. Age-related analyses generally indicated that older children were less frequently exposed to all three dimensions of triangulation than younger ones. Children residing with only their parents experienced more scapegoating than those living in extended families; and boys were exposed to cross-generation coalition and scapegoating more than were girls. Higher levels of coalition and scapegoating exposure were related to poorer school adjustment and greater depression of children. Higher levels of parentification exposure, however, were associated with better school adjustment and social functioning. Findings are discussed in terms of theory and research on parent–child triangulation and cultural differences between East and West.
Scalar restructuring of the Chinese state: The subnational politics of development zones
Authors: Ngo Tak-Wing , Yin Cunyi , Tang Zhilin
Published: August 2016

Recent studies have re-examined the implications and conceptual limitations of the theory of state rescaling in non-Western contexts. While the reconfiguration of state spaces has taken place in many countries and regions, the forces driving a state to reconfigure its spatial power and the forms of state rescaling appear to be contingent upon specific contexts. This article analyses the driving forces behind the scalar restructuring of the Chinese state and discusses how the logic as well as the form of rescaling differ from the post-Fordist experience of the West. By focusing on the frantic rush to establish special development zones, this article argues that development zones in China represent new political spaces that enable local state actors to navigate between multiple scales. Local states can manipulate the costs and benefits between a zone and its hosting locale by taking advantage of their overlapping jurisdictions across different scales. Zoning has become a scaling strategy from below. Local authorities have deployed various zoning technologies to empower themselves by manipulating the existing scalar order to their own advantage.
Pathogenesis of Enterococcal Spondylitis Caused by Enterococcus cecorum in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Borst L. B. , Suyemoto M. M. , Sarsour A. H. , Harris M. C. , Martin M. P. , Strickland J. D. , Oviedo E. O. , Barnes H. J.
Published: August 2016

Enterococcal spondylitis (ES) is a disease of commercial broiler chickens, with a worldwide distribution. Symmetrical hind limb paralysis typical of ES results from infection of the free thoracic vertebra (FTV) by pathogenic strains of Enterococcus cecorum . To determine the pathogenesis of ES, birds with natural and experimental ES were studied over time. In natural disease, case birds (n = 150) from an affected farm and control birds (n = 100) from an unaffected farm were evaluated at weeks 1–6. In control birds, intestinal colonization by E. cecorum began at week 3. In case birds, E. cecorum was detected in intestine and spleen at week 1, followed by infection of the FTV beginning at week 3. E. cecorum isolates recovered from intestine, spleen, and FTV of case birds had matching genotypes, confirming that intestinal colonization with pathogenic strains precedes bacteremia and infection of the FTV. Clinical intestinal disease was not required for E. cecorum bacteremia. In 1- to 3-week-old case birds, pathogenic E. cecorum was observed within osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) lesions in the FTV. To determine whether OCD of the FTV was a risk factor for ES, 214 birds were orally infected with E. cecorum, and the FTV was evaluated histologically at weeks 1–7. Birds without cartilage clefts of OCD in the FTV did not develop ES; while birds with OCD scores ≥3 were susceptible to lesion development. These findings suggest that intestinal colonization, bacteremia, and OCD of the FTV in early life are crucial to the pathogenesis of ES.
Wooden Breast Myodegeneration of Pectoralis Major Muscle Over the Growth Period in Broilers
Authors: Sihvo H.-K. , Lindén J. , Airas N. , Immonen K. , Valaja J. , Puolanne E.
Published: August 2016

Wooden breast (WB) myopathy of broiler chickens is a myodegenerative disease of an unknown etiology and is macroscopically characterized by a hardened consistency of the pectoralis major muscle. Our aim was to describe the development and morphology of WB over the growth period in broilers. Additionally, the effect of restricted dietary selenium on the occurrence of WB was examined by allocating the birds in 2 dietary groups: restricted and conventional level of selenium. The experiment included 240 male broilers that were euthanized at ages of 10, 18, 24, 35, 38, or 42 days and evaluated for WB based on abnormal hardness of the pectoralis major muscle. The severity and the distribution of the lesion and presence of white striping were recorded. The first WB cases were seen at 18 days; 13/47 birds (28%) were affected and the majority exhibited a mild focal lesion. In subsequent age groups the WB prevalence varied between 48% and 73% and the lesion was usually diffuse and markedly firm. White striping often coexisted with WB. Histological evaluation performed on 111 cases revealed a significant association of myodegeneration and lymphocytic vasculitis with WB. Vasculitis and perivascular cell infiltration were restricted to the veins. Restricted dietary selenium did not affect the occurrence of WB ( P = .44). Our results indicate that WB starts focally and spreads to form a diffuse and more severe lesion.
Hoxa-10 and Cyclin D3 Overexpression in the Decidual Reaction in a Superovulation Protocol in Young Adult C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Robles T. Garcia , Fernández R. A. García , García-Palencia P. , Arrabal M. D. , Maldonado B. Sánchez , Pérez M. A. Sánchez , Rollan E. , Caballero J. Martin , Flores J. M.
Published: August 2016

Following the performance of a superovulation protocol, multiple nodules were observed bilaterally in the uterine horns of 31 of 276 (11.2%) C57BL/6 J female mice aged 8.5 ± 0.6 (mean and standard error of mean) weeks. These lesions prevented embryo collection, and the uterine decidual reaction was suspected. Samples of pathological uteri (n = 20) and the normal genital tracts of donors treated with a similar superovulation protocol (control group, n = 10) were collected. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate pancytokeratin, desmin, vimentin, progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor α (ERα), Ki-67, cyclin D3 and c-Myc expression, as well as quantitative polymerase chain reaction to assess cyclin D3, Hoxa-10 and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) mRNA expression. The uterine decidual reaction presented a high degree of structural organization and specifically affected the antimesometrial region of the endometrium. The abnormal decidual cells were large polygonal cells that were frequently polyploid or binucleated and strongly positive for desmin. Immunohistochemistry showed higher Ki-67 proliferation index and higher expression of PR and cyclin D3 in decidual cells in the antimesometrial aspect of the endometrium, compared to nondecidualized endometrial stromal cells in the mesometrial aspect of affected uteri, and compared to endometrial stromal cells in healthy uteri. High expression of cyclin D3 and Hoxa-10 mRNA was also observed in uteri affected by the decidual reaction. These results suggest that PR overexpression in endometrial stromal cells, likely due to high progesterone levels, triggers cyclin D3 and Hoxa-10 overexpression, which may be involved in the pathological mechanisms of the mouse uterine decidual reaction.