bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Algorithm of Similarity Measures for Pattern-Recognition Problems
Authors: Chou Wen-Sheng
Published: March 2015

Similarity measures under intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) have received great attention because of their wide range of applications in various areas, especially in solving pattern-recognition problems. Whereas many studies have focused on proposing new similarity measures, these studies did not provide any proof that their proposed similarity measures can solve pattern-recognition problems without a tie. In this study, we propose two similarity measures and prove that these similarity measures are well defined. Furthermore, we construct an algorithm based on our proposed similarity measures and prove that our proposed algorithm can solve pattern-recognition problems under an intuitionistic fuzzy sets environment without an unsolved dilemma.
Physical and Biological Effects of Modified Polysorbate 20
Authors: Penfield Kevin , Young Bryan , Young Julie , Kruger Greg , Henry Ryan , Lindner Greg
Published: March 2015

Three experimental polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate derivatives were synthesized with molecular fingerprinting techniques applied to experimental materials, confirming the target compounds had been produced. Chemical property measurements were compiled that aligned with theoretical predictions and physical property measurements confirmed their intentional differences yielded the anticipated changes in surfactant behavior. Imidacloprid uptake data confirmed penetration of leaf cuticles was enhanced in the presence of polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurates with several experimental materials providing uptake equivalent to reference material. Select materials were included in field and greenhouse trials where observations included good biological response with a range of individual herbicides as well as improved control of volunteer glyphosate tolerant corn with mixtures of glyphosate and clethodim over the control nonionic surfactant adjuvant when applied as a tank-added adjuvant. Antagonism of annual grass control was not observed.
Impact Performance of Standard Tabletop and Constant Equivalent Fall Height Snow Park Jumps
Authors: Hubbard Mont , McNeil James A. , Petrone Nicola , Cognolato Matteo
Published: March 2015

The theory of snow park jump design that controls landing impact has been developed, but ski resorts have not exploited this advancement, in part, because of questions of practicality. In a first step to provide a proof-of-principle example, we designed and built a novel constant equivalent fall height (EFH) snow park jump at the Tognola Ski Resort in San Martino di Castrozza, Italy. The impact performance of this jump and that of an existing standard tabletop jump were measured using a jumper on a snowboard instrumented with accelerometers. Using only the accelerometer channel perpendicular to the snowboard plane, we were able to estimate the velocity changes at impact perpendicular to the landing surface, the corresponding EFH, and approximate values of the energy absorbed on impact. These were found to be in rough agreement with the theoretical expectations for EFH derived from the measured jump profiles, including trends for the tabletop jump EFH as a function of distance jumped that have been described in the literature.
Use of IR Temperature Measurement and Thermography for Control and Monitoring of Fatigue Tests
Authors: Bailey P. B. S.
Published: March 2015

A case study is presented on the practical application of infrared thermography during fatigue testing in the measurement of specimen temperature fluctuations during fatigue of polymer matrix composites. It is demonstrated that such measurements can also be integrated with an outer loop test control, modulating frequency to maintain more consistent specimen conditions throughout the test, and to optimise test speed. Due to the high temperature sensitivity and high specimen variability of structural composites, this approach can simultaneously improve both consistency and time-efficiency in the generation of fatigue-life data for this commercially important family of materials.
Japan in 2014
Authors: Pekkanen Robert J. , Pekkanen Saadia M.
Published: March 2015

It was all about Abe in 2014. With few intra-party challengers, a divided and weak opposition, and a huge victory in a December snap election gamble, Japan’s Prime Minister Abe finds unusual scope to lead the nation both domestically as well as internationally in his chosen course of “proactive pacifism.”
South Korea in 2014
Authors: Yap O. Fiona
Published: March 2015

The Sewol ferry tragedy revealed weaknesses in South Korea’s politics, economy, and society that had been sidestepped during economic development and political transition. The split in local elections, the Saenuri Party’s sweep in by-elections, and the installation of critics of President Park as leaders of the ruling party all underscore the public’s rejection of political stonewalling or politicking-as-usual.
Singapore in 2014
Authors: Tan Kenneth Paul
Published: March 2015

In the “new normal” following the 2011 general election, Singapore seems poised for further development toward liberal democracy. However, the ruling People’s Action Party is attempting to reinvent itself and regain its hegemonic position, which requires finding credible solutions for very challenging problems to do with policy, communication, and public image.
Vietnam in 2014
Authors: Malesky Edmund , Morris-Jung Jason
Published: March 2015

The May 2014 entry of a Chinese deep-water oil rig into Vietnamese waters deeply shocked Vietnam. This yearend article chronicles the impact of the controversial action on (1) power struggles among elite politicians, (2) alterations in foreign policy orientation, and (3) popular opinion regarding economic reforms and emerging inequality.
Cambodia in 2014
Authors: McCargo Duncan
Published: March 2015

During 2014, Cambodia moved from violent confrontation between government and opposition forces to an uneasy compromise. The turning point came in July, when opposition legislators agreed to take their seats in the National Assembly, which they had boycotted. The long-ruling Cambodian People’s Party worked to polish its tarnished image.
Laos in 2014
Authors: Ku Samuel C. Y.
Published: March 2015

Laos improved its economy in 2014, although its human rights record continues to receive critiques from international society. With frequent visits of Lao leaders to China and the opening of the fourth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, Laos deepened its relations with China in 2014, despite the emerging challenges that China faces.
Timor-Leste in 2014
Authors: Molnar Andrea Katalin
Published: March 2015

Reports of the diplomatic row with Australia and anxiety over Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao’s prospective resignation dominated 2014. Articles of a highly controversial Media Law were declared unconstitutional by the Court of Appeal in September. Timor-Leste hosted the 10th Summit of Heads of State and Governments of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries.
Sri Lanka in 2014
Authors: Wickramasinghe Nira
Published: March 2015

The year 2014 witnessed a few cracks in the government of the United People’s Freedom Alliance in the face of internal and external challenges. Still, anti-Muslim violence, setbacks in provincial elections, and mounting concerns over the coalition’s human rights record failed to disrupt continued high economic growth. The surprise was the January 8, 2015, election: defeating the incumbent, on January 9, former Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new president.
Ethnic differences in BMI, subcutaneous fat, and serum leptin levels during and after pregnancy and risk of gestational diabetes
Authors: Sommer Christine , Jenum Anne K , Waage Christin W , Mørkrid Kjersti , Sletner Line , Birkeland Kåre I
Published: March 2015

Objective

To explore the differences between Europeans and South Asians in BMI, subcutaneous fat, and serum leptin (s-leptin) levels during and after pregnancy and their relationship with gestational diabetes (GDM).

Design

Multi-ethnic population-based cohort study, whereof 353 Europeans (93.1% of the included) and 190 South Asians (95.0% of the included).

Methods

S-leptin, BMI, and subcutaneous fat (sum of triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfolds) were measured at 14 and 28 weeks of gestation, and 14 weeks after delivery. GDM was diagnosed with the WHO criteria 2013.

Results

South Asians had similar thickness of the triceps and suprailiac skinfolds, thicker subscapular skinfold, and higher s-leptin than Europeans in early pregnancy, despite lower BMI. South Asians retained more subcutaneous fat (mean (95% CI) 10.0 (7.4–12.7) mm vs 3.8 (1.9–5.8) mm) and BMI (1.5 (1.2–1.8) kg/m2 vs 0.1 (−0.1 to 0.3) kg/m2) than Europeans 14 weeks after delivery and s-leptin decreased less in South Asians than Europeans (−0.13 (−0.27 to −0.00) μg/l vs −0.47 (−0.57 to −0.37) μg/l, P<0.001 for all). The prevalence of GDM was 23.8% (n=84) in Europeans and 42.6% (n=81) in South Asians. BMI, subcutaneous fat, and s-leptin were all positively associated with GDM, also after adjustment for covariates.

Conclusions

The relatively high amounts of subcutaneous fat and s-leptin in South Asians in early pregnancy contributed to their increased risk of GDM. South Asians retained more weight and subcutaneous fat after delivery, potentially increasing their risk of adiposity and GDM in future pregnancies.
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis – Autoimmune Hepatitis Overlap Syndrome Associated with Dermatomyositis, Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Pamfil Cristina , Candrea Elisabeta , Berki Emese , Popov Horațiu I. , Radu Pompilia I. , Rednic Simona
Published: March 2015

Autoimmune liver diseases may be associated with extrahepatic autoimmune pathology. We report the case of a 52-year old woman who initially presented to the gastroenterology department for extreme fatigue, pale stools, dark urine and pruritus. Laboratory tests showed significant cholestasis and elevation of aminotransferase levels. Immunological tests revealed positive antinuclear (ANA=1:320) and antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA=1:40) with negative anti-smooth muscle and liver kidney microsomal type 1 antibodies. The biopsy was compatible with overlap syndrome type 1. The patient was commenced on immunosuppressive therapy according to standard of care (azathioprine 50mg, ursodeoxycholic acid and prednisone 0.5mg/kg), with moderate biochemical improvement. She subsequently developed proximal symmetrical weakness and cutaneous involvement and was diagnosed with biopsy-proven dermatomyositis. The immunosuppressive regimen was intensified to 150 mg azathioprine. At the three-month follow-up, her symptoms subsided and aminotransferases and muscle enzymes normalized. Upon further investigation the patient was diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis and antiphospholipid syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first case of primary biliary cirrhosis - autoimmune hepatitis overlap syndrome associated with dermatomyositis, autoimmune thyroiditis and antiphospholipid syndrome.
Plasma Lipidomic Fingerprinting to Distinguish among Hepatitis C-related Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Liver Cirrhosis, and Chronic Hepatitis C using MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry: a Pilot Study
Authors: Passos-Castilho Ana Maria , Lo Turco Edson , Ferraz Maria Lúcia , Matos Carla , Silva Ivonete , Parise Edison , Pilau Eduardo , Gozzo Fabio , Granato Celso
Published: March 2015

Background & Aims: Hepatitis C (HC) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and a late diagnosis is the main factor for the poor survival of patients. There is an urgent need for identifying sensitive and specific biomarkers for HCC diagnosis. In the present study, plasma lipid patterns of patients with HC-HCC, HC-liver cirrhosis (LC), and chronic HC (CHC) were assessed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS).Methods. Plasma samples of 25 patients with HC-HCC, 15 patients with HC-LC, and 25 patients with CHC were evaluated by MALDI-MS using a Q-ToF premier (Synapt) mass spectrometer (Waters, Manchester, UK) equipped with a 200-Hz solid-state laser in the mass range between m/z (mass-to-charge ratio) of 700-1200.Results. A total of 2205 ions were initially obtained and 7 ions (m/z) were highlighted as corresponding to the most important lipids to differentiate HCC patients from LC and CHC patients. The specific lipidomic expression signature generated resulted in an overall predictive accuracy of 93% of HC-HCC and HC-LC, and 100% of HC-HCC and CHC. The 7-peak algorithm distinguished HCC from LC with a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 87%, and HCC from CHC with both sensitivity and specificity of 100%.Conclusion. MALDI-MS-specific signature peaks accurately distinguished patients with HC-HCC from those with HC-LC and CHC. The results indicate the potential of MALDI-MS and the selected peaks to improve HCC surveillance in patients with viral C cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis C.
CAP: a Novel Era to Better Quantitate Fatty Liver?
Authors: Mueller Sebastian
Published: March 2015

.
Open Biopsy guided by Endoscopic Ultrasonography from a Gastric Submucosal Tumor growing Outside the Stomach
Authors: Mori Hirohito , Kobara Hideki , Nishiyama Noriko , Fujihara Shintaro , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: March 2015

Submucosal tunneling bloc biopsy for submucosal tumors growing inside the gastric wall is a safe and reliable method. However, it is difficult for an endoscopist to perform submucosal tunneling bloc biopsy and detect the demarcation line between the proper muscular layer and the capsule layer of submucosal tumors growing outside the gastric wall.A submucosal tumor in the lesser curvature of the stomach was identified in a 74-year-old man by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Computed tomography revealed hetero-density with partial calcification of the tumor growing outside the gastric wall, that connected to approximately 10 mm of the muscular layer. Almost all of the tumor body was located outside the stomach. After the small connecting area was detected by endoscopic ultrasonography, two markings were placed at the opposite ends of the tumor. The tumor was removed via snare resection between the markings located immediately above the top of the tumor. After the biopsy site was reconfirmed using endoscopic ultrasonography, a large bloc biopsy was conducted. This new "open biopsy under endoscopic ultrasonography" is a simple, safe, and reliable method to obtain samples from any type of submucosal tumor growing inside or outside the stomach.
The Lauren Classification Highlights the Role of Epithelialto- Mesenchymal Transition in Gastric Carcinogenesis: an Immunohistochemistry Study of the STAT3 and Adhesion Molecules Expression
Authors: Susman Sergiu , Barnoud Raphaelle , Bibeau Frederique , Borini Francesco , Pocard Marc , Tomuleasa Ciprian , Sabourin Jean-Cristophe
Published: March 2015

Background & Aims: Despite some recent advances, gastric cancer remains an important cause of death at world level. This indicates an absence of therapeutic options, stemming from the limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. Nearly fifty years ago Lauren classified gastric cancers, according to the morphological aspect, as intestinal or diffuse. The phenotype of the cells indicates the presence of different molecular mechanisms, which can be approached in the light of recent data and identified with the help of current techniques. The best described are the germline/somatic mutations or the hypermethylations of the E-cadherin 1 CDH1 gene promotor.Methods. We analyzed 195 gastric tumors,120 intestinal and 75 diffuse type, using immunohistochemistry (tissue microarray TMA method) for pStat3Tyr705, E-cadherin, α-catenin and β-catenin; 985 spots of gastric tumors, distributed on 4 TMA blocks were analyzed. For pStat3Tyr705 we took the nuclear staining into account and for the adhesion molecules, membrane staining.Results. In our study, in the diffuse type gastric cancer, pStat3Tyr705 nuclear expression was statistically significantly increased (p=0.003). Also we observed a decreased expression of the adhesion molecules in the same type of gastric cancer (E-cadherin p<0.0001, α-catenin p<0.0001, β-catenin p<0.0001), suggesting that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be involved not only in gastric carcinogenesis, but also in resistance to treatment.Conclusion. The Stat3 role has been recently highlighted in carcinogenesis of the diffuse type of gastric cancer. We found that the morphological features of the diffuse type also suggest the involvement of EMT in this type of gastric cancer. Therefore, targeting the key molecules involved in this process may interfere with EMT process in the diffuse type of gastric cancer.
Diagnostic Performance of Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)/ Endoscopic Ultrasound – Fine Needle Aspiration (EUS-FNA) Cytology in Solid and Cystic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours
Authors: Mitra Vikramjit , Nayar Manu K. , Leeds John S. , Wadehra Viney , Haugk Beate , Scott John , Charnley Richard M. , Oppong Kofi W.
Published: March 2015

Background & Aims: Our study aimed to assess the sensitivity of EUS and EUS-FNA for pancreatic neuro-endocrine tumors (pNETs) and compare performance over two consecutive 4 year 2 month periods, to investigate the comparative performance between solid and cystic pNETs and determine the incremental yield of EUS±FNA in individuals with a mass not diagnosed as a pNET after cross-sectional imaging.Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was carried out to identify all pNET patients who underwent EUS-FNA between April 2003 and September 2011.Results: A final diagnosis of solid and cystic pNETs was made in 43 and 10 patients, respectively. Overall, the yield of combined EUS imaging and cytology was significantly higher than that of CT and/or MRI (p< 0.05) across all groups [solid (83.7% vs. 41.8%), cystic (70% vs. 10%) and combined solid-cystic (81.1% vs. 35.8%)]. The yield of combined EUS imaging and cytology was significantly better than EUS imaging alone (p<0.05) in the solid (83.7% vs. 58%) and combined pNET cohort (81.1% vs. 52.8%) of patients. After a non-diagnostic CT and or MRI, EUS/EUS-FNA confirmed pNET in 19 out of 25 patients (76.0%) with solid pNETs and 6 out of 9 patients (66.7%) with cystic pNETs.Conclusion: EUS and EUS-FNA had a significant clinical impact in the 25/34 of cases where pNET was not suspected after initial cross-sectional imaging.
Orchids in a changing climate
Authors: Cribb Phillip
Published: March 2015

Las orquídeas gozan de una historia registrada larga y distinguida, que puede ser rastreada a los antiguos griegos. Durante dos milenios o más, nuestro conocimiento relativo a las orquídeas se ha mantenido superficial, básicamente debido a que los centros de conocimientos se encontraban en regiones templadas con una pobre flora de orquídeas. Al inicio del Renacimiento, el conocimiento aumentó en forma más rápida. Hace casi medio siglo, el profesor William Stearn delineó este progreso en su conferencia que constituye un hito, presentada en la Tercera Conferencia Mundial de Orquídeas en Londres. Sin embargo, el conocimiento se ha desplazado en forma vertiginosa desde ese momento, y ha identificado cinco desarrollos principales que han dado sustento a estos nuevos discernimientos – clonación de orquídeas, potencia de computación, análisis de ADN, la orquídea fósil y técnicas de conservación – que ha generado impactos principales en la ciencia de las orquídeas, horticultura, y conservación. La disponibilidad de nuevas tecnologías y descubrimientos han generado avances sin precedentes en muchos aspectos relativos a las orquídeas, desde nuestra comprensión relativa a los orígenes de orquídeas al manejo de las amenazas para su supervivencia futura. El mundo se ha vuelto crecientemente consciente de temas como el cambio climático que con gran probabilidad van a tener un efecto dramático sobre las orquídeas del mundo.
Filogenia molecular preliminar de Scaphosepalum (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae)
Authors: Endara Lorena , Williams Norris , Whitten Mark
Published: March 2015

El género Scaphosepalum (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae) agrupa a 49 especies de distribución tanto amplia como restringida las que muchas veces crecen en simpatría biótica en los bosques montanos neotropicales. Scaphosepalum alcanza su pico de diversidad en el norte de los Andes y constituye un sistema interesante para investigar el efecto que tuvo el levantamiento de los Andes en los procesos de especiación. El objetivo de este proyecto es crear un marco filogenético que sea la base para evaluar si la distribución actual de las especies es la consecuencia de especiación simpátrica o especiación alopátrica seguida por contacto secundario. A continuación se presenta la filogenia preliminar del género Scaphosepalum reconstruida utilizando caracteres moleculares obtenidos de la amplificación y secuenciación de las regiones ITS, trnL-F, matK, y ycf1. Los datos de las cuatro regiones combinadas fueron analizados bajo los criterios de máxima parsimonia (MP), máxima verosimilitud (Maximum Likelihood: ML) y bayesiano y obtuvieron reconstrucciones filogenéticas similares. A pesar de que esta reconstrucción filogenética está aún en una etapa preliminar, los resultados sugieren una fuerte estructura geográfica.
Aplicación de la técnica de encapsulación – deshidratación para la crioconservación de semillas y protocormos de Oncidium stenotis (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Roura Alberto , Proaño Karina , Jadán Mónica
Published: March 2015

El presente trabajo pretende desarrollar un sistema que posibilite la crioconservación de semillas y protocormos de Oncidium stenotis en nitrógeno líquido (-196 oC), con el uso de la técnica de Encapsulación-Deshidratación. La primera fase del proyecto consistió en tomar dos fracciones de las semillas, una de ellas fue puesta a germinar en medio Knudson liquido adicionado: ácido α-naftalén acético y ácido giberélico y la segunda fracción en medio Knudson sólido (7 gL-1 de agar) enriquecidos con: benziladenina, ácido indolacético, ácido α-naftalén acético y ácido giberélico. Ambas fracciones se incubaron a 23 ± 2 oC y con un fotoperíodo de 12 horas luz. La adición de diferentes concentraciones de reguladores de crecimiento en ambas fracciones se la realizó con el fin de acelerar el proceso de germinación. La fase que se realizará posteriormente es encapsular las semillas y protocormos en alginato de sodio al 3%, las cápsulas posteriormente serán deshidratadas en concentraciones crecientes de sacarosa 0.15 M (24 h), 0.25 M (24 h) y 0.5 M (24 h) para luego ser colocadas en sílica gel por 5 horas. La crioconservación se efectuará por inmersión directa en nitrógeno líquido durante una hora. El descongelamiento se realizará a baño maría (37 oC) por un minuto, luego las cápsulas que contengan semillas se sembrarán directamente y los protocormos se recultivarán sin las cápsulas en medio Knudson sólido, con la adición de diferentes concentraciones de Benziladenina e Ácido Indolbutírico, para buscar el medio adecuado de resuperación post- congelamiento.
New combinations in Odontoglossum (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) and a solution to a taxonomic conundrum
Authors: Dalström Stig
Published: March 2015

Oncidium koechliniana, de flores diminutas, presenta una combinacíon de características únicas que justifica su transferencia, así como de todas las especies aquí aceptadas de los géneros Cochlioda y Solenidiopsis a Odontoglossum, transferencias que se hacen en este artículo. La características distintiva para separar Odontoglossum de Oncidium están basadas en distribución geográfica y morfología floral, que se muestran a través de ilustraciones.
A new species of Campylocentrum (Orchidaceae:Angraecinae) from Colombia
Authors: Kolanowska Marta , Pérez-Escobar Óscar Alejandro , Parra Sánchez Edicson
Published: March 2015

Se describe e ilustra a Campylocentrum palominoi, una nueva especie de la Cordillera occidental de los Andes, departamento del Valle del Cauca (Colombia). Esta especie es similar a C. brenesii, de la cual difiere principalmente por los lóbulos laterales del labelo obtusos, ovados, subiguales, lóbulo medio sin papilas en la lámina y por el nectario sacciforme, angosto en la base y ancho en el ápice.
Vegetative anatomy of Calypsoeae (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Carlsward Barbara , Stern William Louis
Published: March 2015

Calypsoeae represent a small tribe of anatomically little-known orchids with a wide distribution in the Western Hemisphere. Leaves are present in all genera, except Corallorhiza and Wullschlaegelia both of which are subterranean taxa. Stomata are abaxial (ad- and abaxial in Aplectrum) and tetracytic (anomocytic in Calypso). Fiber bundles are absent in leaves of all taxa examined except Govenia tingens. Stegmata are present in leaves of only Cremastra and Govenia. Roots are velamentous, except in filiform roots of Wullschlaegelia. Vegetative anatomy supports a relationship between Wullschlaegelia and Corallorhiza but does not support the grouping of winter-leaved Aplectrum and Tipularia nor proposed groupings of genera based on pollinarium features.
Futures studies in Finland
Authors: Nováky Erzsébet , Monda Eszter
Published: March 2015

The development of futures studies and the future-oriented attitude of Finnish institutions and the government can serve as great example for other countries. This attitude appears in education and economy, issues in which Finland is highly competitive in Europe. We introduce the futures studies-related organizations and the foresight system of Finland. An overview of the development of futures studies and the activities, purposes of foresight institutions, with a major emphasis on the Finland Futures Research Centre will be presented. The main question is how could other countries utilize the Finnish example? Societal changes depend on the environment and its historical background, making it quite a challenge to come up with an all-adaptable answer for this question. Thus we will only present guidelines and proposals regarding the development of strategy at the end of this paper.
The impact of the recession on health care expenditure — How does the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia compare to other OECD countries?
Authors: Baji Petra , Péntek Márta , Boncz Imre , Brodszky Valentin , Loblova Olga , Brodszky Nóra , Gulácsi László
Published: March 2015

In the past few years, several papers have been published in the international literature on the impact of the economic crisis on health and health care. However, there is limited knowledge on this topic regarding the Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. The main aims of this study are to examine the effect of the financial crisis on health care spending in four CEE countries (the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia) in comparison with the OECD countries. In this paper we also revised the literature for economic crisis related impact on health and health care system in these countries. OECD data released in 2012 were used to examine the differences in growth rates before and after the financial crisis. We examined the ratio of the average yearly growth rates of health expenditure expressed in USD (PPP) between 2008–2010 and 2000–2008. The classification of the OECD countries regarding “development” and “relative growth” resulted in four clusters. A large diversity of “relative growth” was observed across the countries in austerity conditions, however the changes significantly correlate with the average drop of GDP from 2008 to 2010. To conclude, it is difficult to capture visible evidence regarding the impact of the recession on the health and health care systems in the CEE countries due to the absence of the necessary data. For the same reason, governments in this region might have a limited capability to minimize the possible negative effects of the recession on health and health care systems.
Algodão colorido e agroecológico pode ser a solução sustentável para a futura indústria têxtil
Authors: Garcia Solimar , Bernini Denise Dupont Simões , Nääs Irenilza de Alencar , Vicens-Salort Eduardo
Published: March 2015

Os temas agronegócio do algodão colorido e moda praticamente não possuem literatura científica publicada sobre o assunto, principalmente quando o assunto é tratado com o escopo de sustentabilidade. O algodão colorido e agroecológico, apesar da limitação em cores, pode reverter em uma produção industrial com menos impacto ambiental e utilizando menos água. O objetivo deste estudo foi apresentar a fibra colorida e o algodão orgânico, produzidos por pequenos agricultores na região Nordeste do Brasil, como produto alternativo para promover a sustentabilidade no agronegócio do algodão e na indústria têxtil, e identificar a carência de estudos científicos sobre o tema. Foram feitos levantamentos em bases disponíveis de literatura nacional e publicações internacionais sobre o tema e apresentados os resultados de pesquisas de produtos tóxicos utilizados para a produção do algodão branco e na indústria têxtil. Sugere-se que haja incentivo do governo aos agricultores que se dedicam a esta produção e que proporcione a infraestrutura para que o produto atinja o mercado global, por meio de cooperação com países mais pobres, promovendo mudanças mundiais no impacto ambiental na indústria da moda.Palavras-chave: Agronegócios. Desenvolvimento Sustentável. Pesquisa em Agronegócios e Sustentabilidade. Sustentabilidadenaindústria da Moda.
Sistemática para seleção de um portfólio de estratégias de postergação para cadeias suprimentos
Authors: Simão Luiz Eduardo , Gonçalves Mirian Buss
Published: March 2015

A estagnação da economia tem aumentado à competição e a incerteza no setor industrial. Tendencias como o aumento na proliferação da variedade de produtos e a exigencia por customização de produtos tem contribuído para dificultar a previsão da demanda, devido ao aumento da incerteza da demanda dos produtos finais. Nesse novo contexto competitivo, não é possível mais empregar o processo da cadeia suprimentos tradicional “um formato atende a todos” (“one-size-fits-all”) com políticas únicas para todos os produtos porque esta prática pode levar a perdas de rentabilidade significativas, devido ao aumento nos niveis de estoque e vendas perdidas. No entanto, a pesquisa em cadeias de suprimentos tem dado relativamente pouca atenção para a necessidade de empregar diferentes estratégias de cadeia de suprimentos de forma segmentada bem como desenvolver e gerenciar essas múltiplas estratégias de cadeias de suprimentos de forma simultanea. Assim, o presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar uma abordagem para seleção de um portfólio de estratégias de postergação baseado na para segmentação da cadeia de suprimentos baseada na análise do perfil da demanda (análise volume-variedade) e uma ferramenta para auxiliar na seleção de estratégias de postergação impulsionado pelo segmento de clientes-produtos e de suas respectivas proposições de valor.Palavras-chave: Cadeia de Suprimentos. Segmentação. Postergação. Portfólio.
Estratégia de gestão de plataformas em serviços: caso de uma empresa de design de ambientes
Authors: De Melo Filho Leonel Del Rey , Coelho Mariana Freitas , Gonçalves Carlos Alberto , Gosling Marlusa
Published: March 2015

A gestão de plataformas é uma ferramenta estratégica para empresas de vários portes, mas carecede estudos no setor de serviços. O objetivo desse artigo é investigar uma utilização da gestão deplataforma, desenhada para alcançar flexibilidade modular e dinâmica operacional em projetos deserviços. A plataforma estudada é avaliada como um recurso estratégico de um caso particular. Foramanalisadas as contribuições desse recurso na perspectiva da teoria da Visão Baseada em Recursos(VBR) e de Marketing de Serviços (MS) com o propósito de analisar seus efeitos no desempenhoda empresa. A estratégia de pesquisa utilizada foi o estudo de caso exploratório em uma empresade design de ambientes físicos. A técnica de coleta de dados abrangeu uma observação participante,análise de documentos e grupo focal com as gestoras da empresa. A pesquisa mostrou que a gestãoda plataforma constitui um recurso estratégico que auxilia o planejamento das capacidades operacionaisinternas, posicionamento no mercado e melhor atendimento ao cliente.Visão Baseada em Recursos.Palavras-chave: Empresa de Serviços. Gestão de Plataformas. Marketing de Serviços.
Práticas sustentáveis ambientais utilizadas no setor de pós-vendas em concessionárias de veículos leves: um estudo de multicasos
Authors: Bôlla Viegas Pedro , Coradini Bianchi Renata , Souto Bolzan Medeiros Flaviani
Published: March 2015

Atualmente, a preocupação com o meio ambiente leva as empresas em nível global a se preocuparem com a sua interação no meio onde estão inseridas, isso traz a necessidade de se adequarem, utilizando medidas que reduzam ou, até mesmo, eliminem quaisquer impactos ambientais provenientes de suas atividades. Deste modo, o presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar as práticas de sustentabilidade ambiental utilizadas no setor de pós-vendas das concessionárias de Santa Maria-RS. Para isso, utilizou-seuma pesquisa descritiva, bibliográfica, optando por estudos multicasos em uma amostra de cinco concessionárias que possuem sede ou filial nesta cidade. Entre os principais resultados, destaca-seque todas as concessionárias analisadas fazem uso de algum tipo de prática sustentável, aplicando métodos e ferramentas em suas atividades. Dentre tais práticas, cita-se o uso de caixas separadoras, impermeabilidade do solo, economia de energia elétrica, coleta seletiva etc. É necessário ressaltar essas iniciativas sustentáveis ambientais adotadas em meio às atividades empresariais mesmo com altos custos e dificuldades de implantação.Palavras-chave: Sustentabilidade. Gestão Ambiental. Serviço Pós-venda. Concessionária de Veículos.
Determinação do custo fabril pelo método UEP: estudo de caso no setor de salsicharia de frigorífico
Authors: Wernke Rodney , Junges Ivone , Lembeck Marluce , Zanin Antonio
Published: March 2015

Nesse artigo se pretendeu responder a seguinte questão de pesquisa: como demonstrar ao gestor de uma empresa que produz alimentos “embutidos” os impactos positivos do conhecimento do custo unitário de transformação? O objetivo consistia verificar a possibilidade de aplicação do método UEP para apurar o custo de transformação dos produtos fabricados por uma empresa desse tipo. Foi empregada metodologia do tipo descritiva, no formato de estudo de caso, com abordagem qualitativa. Inicialmente foi efetuada uma revisão da literatura a respeito do método UEP, onde foram abordados aspectos como histórico, conceitos, princípios norteadores, etapas a serem percorridas para implementá-lo, benefícios informativos oriundos e limitações associadas. Em seguida foram apresentadas as principais características do estudo de caso realizado por meio de breve descrição da empresa enfocada e as etapas seguidas para aplicar tal forma de custeamento. Posteriormente foram elencados os benefícios informativos proporcionados pelo estudo e ressaltadas as limitações associáveis à metodologia utilizada. Concluiu-se pela aplicabilidade do método no contexto desta empresa.Palavras-chave: Custo de transformação. Frigorífico. Método UEP. Benefícios e limitações. Estudo de caso.
In Reply
Authors: Baratti Dario , Kusamura Shigeki , Maggi Claudia , Braud Filippo , Deraco Marcello , Di Bartolomeo Maria , Pietrantonio Filippo
Published: March 2015

The authors are currently conducting molecular and genetic research to identify new targets for therapeutic interventions and predictive biomarkers in pseudomyxoma peritonei. The final aim of these studies is to rationalize the choice of treatment, which remains an unmet clinical need.
Associations Among Oral Hygiene Behavior and Hypertension Prevalence and Control: The 2008 to 2010 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Choi Hye Min , Han Kyungdo , Park Yong‐Gyu , Park Jun‐Beom
Published: March 2015

Background: Recently, a positive association has been reported between hypertension and periodontitis. The authors hypothesized that oral hygiene promotion activities could have an effect on hypertension prevention or the degree of hypertension control. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between oral hygiene behaviors and hypertension using data from a nationally representative survey, the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).

Methods: Using data from the KNHANES (2008 to 2010), 19,560 adults with complete data sets were included. The authors analyzed the relationship of the prevalence and control rate of hypertension and numerous variables, including oral hygiene behavior.

Results: As the frequency of toothbrushing increased, the prevalence of hypertension decreased in multivariate analysis after adjusting for various factors, including the presence of periodontitis. In a subgroup analysis, this relationship was also observed in individuals without periodontitis. In particular, systolic blood pressure levels progressively decreased as the frequency of toothbrushing and the number of secondary oral products used increased. The adjusted odds ratio of hypertension prevalence was 1.195 (95% confidence interval 1.033 to 1.383) for individuals who brushed their teeth hardly ever or once daily compared with those who brushed after every meal.

Conclusions: Individuals with poor oral hygiene behavior are more likely to have a higher prevalence of hypertension, even before periodontitis is shown. Oral hygiene behavior may be considered an independent risk indicator for hypertension, and maintaining good oral hygiene may help to prevent and control hypertension.
Model of growth and surgical treatment glioblastoma multiforme tumors localized in the motor zone of the brain-use of the direct electrocorticostimulation in the prevention of motor deficit
Authors: Repac Nikola , Nikolic Igor , Mihajlovic Miljan , Djoric Igor , Janicijevic Aleksandar , Scepanovic Vuk , Matic Sinisa , Jovanovic Vladimir , Tasic Goran
Published: March 2015

Gioblastoma multiforme localized in the motor area is the surgical challenge
because of the need for more radical resection in order to extend the life of
the patient, and the other due to the risk that radicalism could lead to
additional-crippling neurological deficit. Method. We present a series of 26
patients with Glioblastoma multiforme localized in and around the motor area
in front of the central sulcus who were hospitalized from October 2004 to
February 2009. During all operations we conducted cortical electrostimulation
on displayed area of the brain, to the anatomical location of M1 segment of
the motor cortex. Results. Distance of the central sulcus in relation to the
coronary suture, measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was 18.38
mm?9.564 mm. The volume of electricity required for a motor response was
9.26?1.286 mA(min. 7mA, max. 11mA), with increasing distance from the
coronary suture the amperage required to explicit motor responses decreased
(p<0.01). Conclusion: The method of direct cerebral cortex electrostimulation
is simple and safe method and a binding protocol to the patient safe
operation glioblastoma multiforme localized in the motor area of the brain.
Compliance with treatment of patients with glaucoma
Authors: Bjelovic Nevena , Sencanic Ivan , Trajkovic Goran
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Glaucoma is progressive, chronic optic neuropathy, causing
visual field damage and progressive loss of sight. This is a leading cause of
preventable blindness and most often asymptomatic disease. Recommended
management of glaucoma typically includes the use of medication(s).
Compliance rates vary between 25 and 59%. Patient reported outcomes (PRO's)
are an umbrella term, covering a broad range of health data reported by
patients. PRO's self reported questionnaires are developed to assess several
aspects of patient health status, including treatment satisfaction and
adherence. Study objective: To assess patient satisfaction with medication
effectiveness, medication side effects, convenience and overall treatment
satisfaction. Material and method: Using a crosssectional study design,
glaucoma patients had been recruited, and examined at the Centre for Sight
"Oftalmika" in Belgrade, Serbia in the period between May 15th and June 15th
2011. The questionnaire used in research was the Treatment Satisfaction
Questionnaire for Medication Version ii (TSQM). Results: Total of 73 glaucoma
patients filled out the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire. The mean age
was 62.8 years. Satisfaction score for TSQM subscales: Effectiveness, Side
Effects, and Convenience and Overall Satisfaction have not showed
statistically significant difference between the subscales. The participants
are satisfied with the treatment effectiveness, independently on gender, age,
level of the education, and the difference within the family life style.
Participants from the secondary educational level (iSCED levels) showed
significantly lower satisfaction with the side effects than others. Also,
there is a significantly higher level of satisfaction with treatment, for the
people who live alone. Overall, the study determined that there is a
statistically significant positive linear correlation between overall
satisfaction with treatment and its determinants. Conclusion: Our respondents
showed a high level of satisfaction with therapy. Patients' satisfaction with
treatment was higher in patients who believe that the therapy is effective,
who are not bothered with the influence of side effects and are satisfied
with the therapeutic schemes.
Hepatocelularni karcinom udruzen sa ehinokoknom cistom jetre kao dijagnosticki problem
Authors: Basaric Dragan , Milicevic Miroslav , Galun Danijel , Zuvela Marinko , Bulajic Predrag , Bogdanovic Aleksandar , Bidzic Nemanja , Ðurasic Ljubomir
Published: March 2015

The presence of benign and/or malignant liver lesions is not easy to
determine, especially differentiated. Preoperative diagnosis has to include
more procedures for correlation of data in order to establish the correct
diagnosis and proper treatment. The case of a 72-year-old female patient who
was admitted because of the appearance of persistent dull pain under right
rib cage. Ultrasound and CT findings verify the presence of two changes in
the right liver, various radiographic characteristics. One change was good,
other cystic. The presence of easily elevated tumor markers (AFP) in favor of
hepatocellular carcinoma. The nature of other types of cystic changes was not
clear. Intraoperatively and histologically confirmed to be a simultaneous
presence of hepatocellular carcinoma and hydatid cysts in the right lobe of
the liver. Surgical treatment is the only solution for the simultaneous
treatment of both changes in the liver.
Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament associated with formed arcuate foramina on atlas - evaluation using CT angiography
Authors: Adnadjevic Perica , Mladenovic Ana , Djoric Igor
Published: March 2015

1000Purpose: Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL)
represents progressive heterotopic ossification of unclear pathogenesis. The
aim of this report is to present OPLL associated with arcuate foramina, which
has not been reported in the literature before. Materials and methods:
32-year old female patient presented with occipital headache, neck pain and
occasional vertigo. She was examined using radiography, computed tomography
(CT) angiography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of cervical spine and
scull basis. Results: We found OPLL associated with bilateral arcuate
foramina formed on atlas: foramen was complete on the left-hand side, with
lumen reduction of the left vertebral artery, while on the right-hand side,
the foramen was incomplete. Conclusion: The significance of this case report
is highly sensitive diagnostic evaluation of simultaneous appearance of two
pathologic entities that can present with similar or identical clinical
manifestations in the stage of the disease when early diagnostics and further
radiological follow-up are important in the prevention of sequelae.
Evaluation of Agronomic and Sensory Attributes of Quality Protein Maize for Acceptability in South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Bosede Olukemi , Titilola Ayoola Olukemi , Bosede Fasoyiro Subuola
Published: March 2015

Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.) (QPM) varieties have been developed by scientists at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training in Nigeria. For these varieties to have significant impact, they must possess traits acceptable to farmers. A study was carried out to evaluate the agronomic and sensory traits of two Quality Protein Maize - ART-98-SW-6-OB (QPM1) and ILE-1-OB (QPM2), in comparison with ART-96-SW-1 (High Protein Maize) and SUWAN-1-SR (a popularly grown improved variety) in three maize growing communities of South West, Nigeria. Sixty (60) farmers comprising males and females were evaluated for six sensory parameters. The parameters tested were appearance, colour, flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability. The results of the agronomic evaluation showed that there were no significant differences in the height of QPM varieties and HPM at harvest. QPM varieties gave the highest grain yield of 2.38t/ha for ART-98-SW-6OB and 2.36t/ha for ILE-1-OB. Sensory evaluation showed that when the maize varieties were processed into corn-soy milk, QPM corn-soy milk had the highest sensory scores for all sensory parameters tested. Quality Protein Maize varieties had high grain yield and were most preferred for maize pudding and corn - soy milk. The QPM varieties, if formulated into foods for household or commercial purposes, should have good chance of being accepted by farmers with continuous promotional campaigns.
Vortex Rings - Experiments and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Damian Iulia - Rodica , Tănase Nicoleta Octavia , Simionescu Ștefan - Mugur , Mihăilescu Mona
Published: March 2015

The present paper was concerned with the experimental study of the time evolution of a single laminar vortex ring generated at the interface between water and isopropyl alcohol. The experiment was performed by the submerged injection of isopropyl alcohol in a water tank of 100×100×150 mm. A constant rate of Q0 = 2 ml/min was maintained using a PHD Ultra 4400 Syringe Pump with a needle having the inner diameter D0 = 0.4 mm. The dynamics of the vortex formation was recorded with a Photron Fastcam SA1 camera at 1000 fps equipped with an Edmund Optics objective VZM1000i. The numerical simulations were performed on a 2D geometry using the ANSYS-FLUENT code with the Volume of Fluid multiphase model and the viscous-laminar solver. The numerical flow patterns were found to be in good agreement with the experimental visualizations
Institutionalizing Local Government as an Instrument of Democratic Consolidation: The Cases of Bulgaria and Paraguay
Authors: Katsamunska Polya , Rosenbaum Allan
Published: March 2015

Multi-level governance is widely used throughout the world, especially in more economically developed countries. In part, this is due to the presumed benefits of decentralization in terms of public-service delivery, and in part, it is due to a desire to disperse political power and governmental authority. Thus, 25 years ago, when major governmental reform initiatives were begun in many countries around the world, especially in Central and Eastern Europe and Latin America, much attention was devoted to establishing and / or strengthening local governments. This was the case in Bulgaria and Paraguay, two countries from different parts of the world, but similar in size, economic development and a history of highly centralized and authoritarian regimes. The purpose of this paper is to examine and better understand the processes of decentralization as they took place in those two countries and those factors which facilitated and / or hindered efforts to initiate effective local government.