bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodological approach for the estimation of a new velocity model for continental Ecuador
Authors: Luna Marco P. , Staller Alejandra , Toulkeridis Theofilos , Parra Humberto
Published: January 2018

We used 33 stations belonging of the Ecuador Continuous Monitoring GNSS Network (REGME) during the period 2008-2014, with aim to contribute with a methodological approach for the estimation of a new velocity model for Continental Ecuador. We used daily solutions to perform the analysis of GNSS time series, to obtain models of the series that best fit, taking into count the trend, seasonal variations and the type of noise. The sum of all these components represent the real-time series, and thus we can have a better estimation of the velocity parameter and its uncertainty.

The velocities were calculated introducing the trend, seasonality and noise that were presented in each series into the overall model, which improved uncertainty by 12% and changed in magnitude up to 1.7 mm/yr and 2.5 mm/yr in the horizontal and vertical components, respectively, with respect to the initial velocities. The velocity field describes the crustal movement of the REGME stations in mainland Ecuador with uncertainty of 1 mm/yr and 2 mm/yr for the horizontal and vertical components, respectively. Finally, a velocity model has been developed using the kriging technique whose geostatistical approach has been based on the data to identify the spatial characteristics by examining the observations by peers. The mean square error (rms) of prediction obtained in this method is 1.78 mm/yr and 1.95 mm/yr in the east and north components, respectivaly. The vertical component could not be modeled due to its chaotic behavior.
SPH Modelling of Sea-ice Pack Dynamics
Authors: Staroszczyk Ryszard
Published: January 2018

The paper is concerned with the problem of sea-ice pack motion and deformation under the action of wind and water currents. Differential equations describing the dynamics of ice, with its very distinct mateFfigrial responses in converging and diverging flows, express the mass and linear momentum balances on the horizontal plane (the free surface of the ocean). These equations are solved by the fully Lagrangian method of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). Assuming that the ice behaviour can be approximated by a non-linearly viscous rheology, the proposed SPH model has been used to simulate the evolution of a sea-ice pack driven by wind drag stresses. The results of numerical simulations illustrate the evolution of an ice pack, including variations in ice thickness and ice area fraction in space and time. The effects of different initial ice pack configurations and of different conditions assumed at the coast-ice interface are examined. In particular, the SPH model is applied to a pack flow driven by a vortex wind to demonstrate how well the Lagrangian formulation can capture large deformations and displacements of sea ice.
Enhanced method of fast re-routing with load balancing in software-defined networks
Authors: Lemeshko Oleksandr , Yeremenko Oleksandra
Published: January 2018

A two-level method of fast re-routing with load balancing in a software-defined network (SDN) is proposed. The novelty of the method consists, firstly, in the introduction of a two-level hierarchy of calculating the routing variables responsible for the formation of the primary and backup paths, and secondly, in ensuring a balanced load of the communication links of the network, which meets the requirements of the traffic engineering concept. The method provides implementation of link, node, path, and bandwidth protection schemes for fast re-routing in SDN. The separation in accordance with the interaction prediction principle along two hierarchical levels of the calculation functions of the primary (lower level) and backup (upper level) routes allowed to abandon the initial sufficiently large and nonlinear optimization problem by transiting to the iterative solution of linear optimization problems of half the dimension. The analysis of the proposed method confirmed its efficiency and effectiveness in terms of obtaining optimal solutions for ensuring balanced load of communication links and implementing the required network element protection schemes for fast re-routing in SDN.
Convolution implementation with a novel approach of DGHM multiwavelet image transform
Authors: Kovac Ondrej , Mihalik Jan , Gladisova Iveta
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this paper is to develop convolution implementation of DGHM (Donovan, Geronimo, Harding, Massopust) multiwavelet image transform using a new approach of ordering wavelet coefficients at the second and higher levels. Firstly, the method of implementation of one-dimensional discrete multiwavelet transform (1D DMWT) for DGHM multiwavelet using discrete convolution and scalar filters is presented. Then, convolution implementation of DGHM multiwavelet image transform by application of 1D DMWT for two dimensions (2D) in a separable way is proposed. Next, the second level of 2D DMWT is performed in three possible ways. The novelty of the proposed implementation is in reordering of L subband wavelet coefficients at the first level into one subimage. The results are evaluated as the energy ratios between the transformed images in L subband at the second level and the input original image. According to the experimental results, the developed implementation of 2D DMWT is approximately 5% more effective in energy compression than the ones most commonly mentioned in the literature. This paper shows a possibility of convolution implementation of 2D DMWT with higher energy compression.
Comparison of Measurements of Antioxidant Activity in the Selected Leafy Vegetables Depending on Extraction Solvent
Authors: Jaiswal Swapnil Ganesh , Patel Madhumita , Saxena Devesh K. , Naik Satyanarayan
Published: January 2018

Four leafy vegetable species, spinach (Spinacia oleracea), amaranthus (Amaranthus viridis), fenu-greek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and bathua (Chenopodium album), were extracted with three different solvents (80% ethanol, 80% acetone and water) for maximum recovery of phenol and antioxidant compounds in the extract. The results of extraction were compared with extraction from moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves that is known as a very rich source of antioxidants. The study showed that, it is very difficult to justify a single solvent for extraction of antioxidant compounds from different plants. Results from different solvents used for extracting the bioactive compounds mostly depend on the type of compound extracted (polar/medium polar/non-polar) present in leafy matrices. Here, 80% acetone extract showed highest total phenol content in moringa leaves but the overall antioxidant activity in the leaves of four vegetables was observed to be better after extraction with 80% ethanol. Nevertheless, in most assays, independent of solvent used for extraction, the moringa leaves were the richest source of polyphenols and antioxidants.
Nitrogen and phosphorus in cascade multi-system tropical reservoirs: water and sediment
Authors: Pompêo Marcelo , Moschini-Carlos Viviane , López-Doval Julio Cesar , Abdalla-Martins Natália , Cardoso-Silva Sheila , Freire Rogério Herlon Furtado , Beghelli Frederico Guilherme de Souza , Brandimarte Ana Lúcia , Rosa André Henrique , López Pilar
Published: January 2018

The aim of this research was to analyze the horizontal spatial heterogeneity of both water and superficial sediment quality among and within the reservoirs of the Cantareira System (CS), focusing on concentrations of N and P, attributed to the dumping of raw domestic sewage into water bodies, which is the main cause of water pollution in São Paulo State (Brazil). The CS is a multi-system complex composed of five interconnected reservoirs, with water transported by gravity through 48 km of tunnels and channels. From the last reservoir of the CS, with an output of 33 m3s−1, the water is conducted to a water treatment plant, producing half of the water consumed by 19 million people inhabiting São Paulo city. The upstream reservoirs are more eutrophic than the downstream ones. Data also suggest that the low phytoplankton biomass (ranging from 0.9 to 14.4 μg dm−3) is regulated by the low nutrient availability, mainly of phosphorus (TP ranging from below the detection limit, <9.0 μg dm−3, to 47.3 μg dm−3). For water, the DIN/TP ratios values range from 19 to 380. The upstream reservoirs function as nutrient accumulators and the sediment is the main compartment in which P and N are stored. Although the reservoirs are located in different river basins and are not in sequence along the same river, the results suggest a marked gradient between the reservoirs, with features similar to those of cascade reservoirs. The large volumes flowing through the canals and tunnels could explain the observed pattern. The CS reservoirs can therefore be considered multi-system reservoirs in cascade, constituting a particular case of multi-system reservoirs.
The impact of the Tri-City Ring Road on surface water of small endorheic wetlands
Authors: Staszek Wojciech , Polkowska Żaneta , Dubiella-Jackowska Aleksandra , Barańczuk Jacek
Published: January 2018

The paper presents the results of the impact of the Tri-City Ring Road on small endorheic catchment basins. Particular attention was paid to pollution discharged from the road to the surface water, as well as changes in hydrological conditions in the vicinity of the road. In the study, surface water samples were analysed in terms of their electrolytic conductivity, pH and content of major minerals. GIS was also used to study transformation of local catchment areas as a result of the road construction, determining their relevance to local conditions of drainage. Moreover, the main directions of transformation of surface waters of the small endorheic wetlands caused by runoff water from the ring road were discovered. Research results have shown a strong influence of the road functioning on surface water properties and changes in hydrological conditions of the studied catchment basins.
Hydrogeological investigations of river bed clogging at a river bank filtration site along the River Warta, Poland
Authors: Przybyłek Jan , Dragon Krzysztof , Kaczmarek Piotr Michał Jan
Published: January 2018

River bank filtration (RBF) is a system that enriches groundwater resources by induced infiltration of river water to an aquifer. Problematic during operation of RBF systems is the deterioration of infiltration effectiveness caused by river bed clogging. This situation was observed in the Krajkowo well field which supplies fresh water to the city of Poznań (Poland) during and after the long hydrological drought between the years 1989 and 1992. The present note discusses results of specific hydrogeological research which included drilling of a net of boreholes to a depth of 10 m below river bottom (for sediment sampling as well as for hydrogeological measurements), analyses of grain size distribution and relative density studies. The results obtained have allowed the recognition of the origin of the clogging processes, as well as the documentation of the clogged parts of the river bottom designated for unclogging activities.
Fourier series of functions involving higher-order ordered Bell polynomials
Authors: Kim Taekyun , Kim Dae San , Jang Gwan-Woo , Jang Lee Chae
Published: January 2018

In 1859, Cayley introduced the ordered Bell numbers which have been used in many problems in number theory and enumerative combinatorics. The ordered Bell polynomials were defined as a natural companion to the ordered Bell numbers (also known as the preferred arrangement numbers). In this paper, we study Fourier series of functions related to higher-order ordered Bell polynomials and derive their Fourier series expansions. In addition, we express each of them in terms of Bernoulli functions.
Extended Riemann-Liouville type fractional derivative operator with applications
Authors: Agarwal P. , Nieto Juan J. , Luo M.-J.
Published: January 2018

The main purpose of this paper is to introduce a class of new extended forms of the beta function, Gauss hypergeometric function and Appell-Lauricella hypergeometric functions by means of the modified Bessel function of the third kind. Some typical generating relations for these extended hypergeometric functions are obtained by defining the extension of the Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative operator. Their connections with elementary functions and Fox’s H-function are also presented.
Core-shell nanoarchitecture: Schiff-base assisted synthesis of ruthenium in clay nanotubes
Authors: Vinokurov Vladimir A. , Stavitskaya Anna V. , Chudakov Yaroslav A. , Glotov Aleksandr P. , Ivanov Evgeniy V. , Gushchin Pavel A. , Lvov Yuri M. , Maximov Anton L. , Muradov Aleksandr V. , Karakhanov Eduard A.
Published: January 2018

Natural halloysite clay nanotubes were used as a template for clay/Ru core-shell nanostructure synthesis. Ru-nanoparticles were produced via a ligand-assisted metal ion intercalation technique. Schiff bases formed from different organic compounds proved to be effective ligands for the metal interfacial complexation which then was converted to Ru particles. This produces a high amount of intercalated metal nanoparticles in the tube’s interior with more that 90% of the sample loaded with noble metal. Depending on the selection of organic linkers, we filled the tube’s lumen with 2 or 3.5-nm diameter Ru particles, or even larger metal clusters. Produced nanocomposites are very efficient in reactions of hydrogenation of aromatic compounds, as tested for phenol and cresols hydrogenation.
Antimicrobial Effect of Sage (Salvia officinalisL.) and Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalisL.) Essential Oils on Microbiota of Chicken Breast
Authors: Kačániová Miroslava , Terentjeva Margarita , Kántor Attila , Tokár Marián , Puchalski Czeslaw , Ivanišová Eva
Published: January 2018

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of sage and rosemary essential oils (EO) on microbiota of fresh chicken breast. Sample treatments were stored without packaging, vacuum-packaged, vacuum-packaged with EDTA 1.5% v/w, sage and rosemary EO treatment 0.2% v/w. Assessment of food quality was done by anaerobic plate count (APC), andEnterobacteriaceae, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) andPseudomonasspp. counts a period of 16 days of storage at 4 ± 0.5 °C. Bacterial species were identified with a MALDI TOF MS Biotyper. Antimicrobial activity of isolates against both EO were tested. The APC varied from 2.97 log CFU/g to 6.81 log CFU/g, LAB from 2.35 log CFU/g to 3.36 log CFU/g andEnterobacteriaceaefrom 0.00 log CFU/g on day 0 to 4.77 log CFU/g with the highest counts on day 16 and in control unpackaged samples.Pseudomonasspp. was found only on days 0, 4, 8, and 12, with counts from 0.00 log CFU/g on day 16 to 2.89 log CFU/g on day 4 in control unpackaged samples. APC were represented byStaphylococcusandKocuria, LAB withLactobacillusandEnterobacteriaceaewithButtiauxella,Escherichia,Hafnia,SerratiaandYersinia. ThePseudomonasgenus was represented by ten species. The best antimicrobial effect on APC,Enterobacteriaceae, LAB andPseudomonaswas achieved by application of EO. The results suggest the potential use ofSalvia officinalisL. andRosmarinus officinalisL. EOs as natural food preservatives and potential sources of antimicrobial ingredients in the food industry.
Nutritional Quality of Triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.) Grown under Different Cropping Systems
Authors: Straumīte Evita , Galoburda Ruta , Tomsone Lolita , Krūma Zanda , Grāmatiņa Ilze , Kronberga Arta , Stūrīte Ieviņa
Published: January 2018

Triticale (× Triticosecale Wittm.) is mainly used for animal feed, but recent studies have shown its possible beneficial effect for human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the nutritional quality of triticale grown under different cropping systems in Latvia. Two winter triticale varieties, ‘Inarta’ and ‘Ruja’, were cultivated in 2014 and 2015 under conventional and organic cropping systems. Protein, starch, and total dietary fibre were determined using standard methods. Ultrasound assisted extraction was used for isolation of phenolic compounds. Total phenol content (TPC) and radical scavenging activity in extracts were determined spectrophotometrically. Overall, the highest content of protein, TPC and ABTS cation scavenging activity occurred in triticale harvested in 2014, due to favourable weather conditions (warm weather and more precipitation in June–July) for accumulation of these compounds during grain filling. Higher starch content in all studied samples harvested in 2015, as compared to 2014, was explained by higher precipitation in July 2015. The type of cropping system had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on protein and starch content, while TPC, DPPH, and ABTS·+ scavenging activity was influenced by cropping system, depending on variety.
Central Bank Independence and Inflation IN EU-28
Authors: Beju Daniela-Georgeta , Ciupac-Ulici Maria-Lenuţa , Fǎt Codruța-Maria
Published: January 2018

Today, both policymakers and academicians consider that the central bank’s main goal is to guarantee price stability. The central bank can sustain the government’s economic policies, but only without prejudicing this objective. In order to focus on price stability several studies found that central bank should have a high level of independence. This is why during the recent decades the majority of developed countries, but also several emerging economies have employed institutional reforms that conferred their monetary authorities – the central bank – more independence.

Within the European Union the central bank independence is a crucial issue, since the Maastricht Treaty stipulates that one requirement for joining Economic and Monetary Union for the candidate member states is to give their central banks a sufficiently high level of independence. This official requirement has encouraged the countries from Centre and East Europe engaged on the way to adhere the Economic and Monetary Union to confer their central bank a great level of independence.

In this paper we analyze some important theoretic issues about central bank independence. We also make an empirical investigation regarding the evolution of inflation within European Union relative to the independence of member states’ central banks.
Multi-Criteria Analysis for Solar Farm Location Suitability
Authors: Mierzwiak Michal , Calka Beata
Published: January 2018

Currently the number of solar farms, as a type of renewable sources of energy, is growing rapidly. Photovoltaic power stations have many advantages, which is an incentive for their building and development. Solar energy is readily available and inexhaustible, and its production is environmentally friendly. In the present study multiple environmental and economic criteria were taken into account to select a potential photovoltaic farm location, with particular emphasis on: protected areas, land cover, solar radiation, slope angle, proximity to roads, built-up areas, and power lines. Advanced data analysis were used because of the multiplicity of criteria and their diverse influence on the choice of a potential location. They included the spatial analysis, the Weighted Linear Combination Technique (WLC), and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a decisionmaking method. The analysis was divided into two stages. In the first one, the areas where the location of solar farms was not possible were excluded. In the second one, the best locations meeting all environmental and economic criteria were selected. The research was conducted for the Legionowo District, using data from national surveying and mapping resources such as: BDOT10k (Database of Topographic Objects), NMT (Numerical Terrain Model), and lands and buildings register. Finally, several areas meeting the criteria were chosen. The research deals with solar farms with up to 40 kW power. The results of the study are presented as thematic maps. The advantage of the method is its versatility. It can be used not only for any area, but with little modification of the criteria, it can also be applied to choose a location for wind farms.
Attitude and Loyalty to Two Brands of Beer of the Same Producer
Authors: Sudzina František
Published: January 2018

The focus of the presented research is attitude and loyalty to two brands of beer produced by the Carlsberg Group – Tuborg and Carlsberg. Both beers are lagers. The Carlsberg Group markets Tuborg as a more premium brand, and it also aims to promote it to women. Unlike in the Netherlands with one brand – Heineken and unlike in the Czech Republic with many well-known brands by a multitude of producers, the Danish case gives a unique opportunity to investigate if customers truly prefer one of two brands or are approximately equally low with regards to both brands as it is produced by the same company and tastes very similarly (if not the same). The survey was conducted in Denmark. Respondents were Danish (not international) university students; such selection was done in order to ensure familiarity of respondents with both brands.
The Last Hundred Years of Land Use History in the Southern Part of Valdai Hills (European Russia): Reconstruction by Pollen and Historical Data
Authors: Novenko Elena , Shilov Pavel , Khitrov Dmitry , Kozlov Daniil
Published: January 2018

The last one hundred years of land use history in the southern part of Valdai Hills (European Russia) were reconstructed on the base of high resolution pollen data from the peat monolith taken from the Central Forest State Reserve supplementing with historical records derived from maps of the General Land Survey of the 18th and 19th centuries and satellite images. According to the created age model provided by dating using radio-nuclides 210Pb and 137Cs, pollen data of the peat monolith allow us to reconstruct vegetation dynamics during the last one hundred years with high time resolution. The obtained data showed that, despite the location of the studied peatland in the center of the forest area and rather far away from possible croplands and hayfields, the pollen values of plants – anthropogenic indicators (Secale sereale, Centaurea cyanus, Plantago, Rumex, etc.) and micro-charcoal concentration are relatively high in the period since the beginning of the 20th century to the 1970s, especially in the peat horizon formed in the 1950s. In the late 1970s – the early 1980s when the pollen values of cereals gradually diminished in assemblages, the quantity of pollen of other anthropogenic indicators were also significantly reduced, which reflects the overall processes of the agriculture decline in the forest zone of the former USSR.
Development of a Large-Size Cyclic Direct Simple Shear Device for Characterization of Ground Materials with Oversized Particles
Authors: Zekkos Dimitrios , Athanasopoulos-Zekkos Adda , Hubler Jonathan , Fei Xunchang , Zehtab Kaveh H. , Marr W. Allen
Published: January 2018

Direct simple shear (DSS) testing, despite its limitations, is one of the most common laboratory element tests in geotechnical engineering practice. The development and validation of a 300-mm diameter DSS device as well as test data generated for two materials with oversized particles, specifically pea gravel and municipal solid waste, are presented. The device has the capability to execute shear wave velocity measurements using both bender elements and accelerometers, as well as monotonic and cyclic testing under constant load or constant volume conditions. Validation testing using Ottawa sand C109 confirmed that the monotonic and cyclic constant volume response of the sand using the large-diameter device was similar to the results presented using conventional-sized DSS test devices. The shear wave velocity measurements using bender elements and accelerometers were found to be practically identical for the tested sand and pea gravel and were also consistent with data reported in the literature. The importance of axial (or vertical) displacement control during constant volume shearing is emphasized. It was found that tests that meet the ASTM D6528-07, Standard Test Method for Consolidated Undrained Direct Simple Shear Testing of Cohesive Soils, threshold of 0.05 % maximum axial strain during shearing may still result in different constant volume response, and it is recommended that (a) the threshold is changed to a maximum of 0.025 % and (b) the evolution of axial strain during constant volume shearing is always reported.
Heterogeneities in Axonal Structure and Transporter Distribution Lower Dopamine Reuptake Efficiency
Authors: Kaya Cihan , Cheng Mary H. , Block Ethan R. , Bartol Tom M. , Sejnowski Terrence J. , Sorkin Alexander , Faeder James R. , Bahar Ivet
Published: January 2018

Efficient clearance of dopamine (DA) from the synapse is key to regulating dopaminergic signaling. This role is fulfilled by DA transporters (DATs). Recent advances in the structural characterization of DAT fromDrosophila(dDAT) and in high-resolution imaging of DA neurons and the distribution of DATs in living cells now permit us to gain a mechanistic understanding of DA reuptake eventsin silico. Using electron microscopy images and immunofluorescence of transgenic knock-in mouse brains that express hemagglutinin-tagged DAT in DA neurons, we reconstructed a realistic environment for MCell simulations of DA reuptake, wherein the identity, population and kinetics of homology-modeled human DAT (hDAT) substates were derived from molecular simulations. The complex morphology of axon terminals near active zones was observed to give rise to large variations in DA reuptake efficiency, and thereby in extracellular DA density. Comparison of the effect of different firing patterns showed that phasic firing would increase the probability of reaching local DA levels sufficiently high to activate low-affinity DA receptors, mainly owing to high DA levels transiently attained during the burst phase. The experimentally observed nonuniform surface distribution of DATs emerged as a major modulator of DA signaling: reuptake was slower, and the peaks/width of transient DA levels were sharper/wider under nonuniform distribution of DATs, compared with uniform. Overall, the study highlights the importance of accurate descriptions of extrasynaptic morphology, DAT distribution, and conformational kinetics for quantitative evaluation of dopaminergic transmission and for providing deeper understanding of the mechanisms that regulate DA transmission.
Visual Experience Facilitates BDNF-Dependent Adaptive Recruitment of New Neurons in the Postembryonic Optic Tectum
Authors: Hall Zachary J. , Tropepe Vincent
Published: January 2018

Postembryonic brain development is sensitive to environmental input and sensory experience, but the mechanisms underlying healthy adaptive brain growth are poorly understood. Here, we tested the importance of visual experience on larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) postembryonic development of the optic tectum (OT), a midbrain structure involved in visually guided behavior. We first characterized postembryonic neurogenic growth in OT, in which new neurons are generated along the caudal tectal surface and contribute appositionally to anatomical growth. Restricting visual experience during development by rearing larvae in dim light impaired OT anatomical and neurogenic growth, specifically by reducing the survival of new neurons in the medial periventricular gray zone. Neuronal survival in the OT was reduced only when visual experience was restricted for the first 5 d following new neuron generation, suggesting that tectal neurons exhibit an early sensitive period in which visual experience protects these cells from subsequent neuronal loss. The effect of dim rearing on neuronal survival was mimicked by treatment with an NMDA receptor antagonist early, but not later, in a new neuron's life. Both dim rearing and antagonist treatment reduced BDNF production in the OT, and supplementing larvae with exogenous BDNF during dim rearing prevented neuronal loss, suggesting that visual experience protects new tectal neurons through neural activity-dependent BDNF expression. Collectively, we present evidence for a sensitive period of neurogenic adaptive growth in the larval zebrafish OT that relies on visual experience-dependent mechanisms.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTEarly brain development is shaped by environmental factors via sensory input; however, this form of experience-dependent neuroplasticity is traditionally studied as structural and functional changes within preexisting neurons. Here, we found that restricting visual experience affects development of the larval zebrafish optic tectum, a midbrain structure involved in visually guided behavior, by limiting the survival of newly generated neurons. We found that new tectal neurons exhibit a sensitive period soon after cell birth in which adequate visual experience, likely mediated by neuronal activity driving BDNF production within the tectum, would protect them from subsequent neuronal loss over the following week. Collectively, we present evidence for neurogenic adaptive tectal growth under different environmental lighting conditions.
Commonalities and Differences in the Substrates Underlying Consolidation of First- and Second-Order Conditioned Fear
Authors: Lay Belinda P.P. , Westbrook R. Frederick , Glanzman David L. , Holmes Nathan M.
Published: January 2018

Consolidation of newly formed fear memories requires a series of molecular events within the basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA). Once consolidated, new information can be assimilated into these established associative networks to form higher-order associations. Much is known about the molecular events involved in consolidating newly acquired fear memories but little is known about the events that consolidate a secondary fear memory. Here, we show that, within the male rat BLA, DNA methylation and gene transcription are crucial for consolidating both the primary and secondary fear memories. We also show that consolidation of the primary, but not the secondary, fear memory requiresde novoprotein synthesis in the BLA. These findings show that consolidation of a fear memory and its updating to incorporate new information recruit distinct processes in the BLA, and suggest that DNA methylation in the BLA is fundamental to consolidation of both types of conditioned fear.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOur data provide clear evidence that a different set of mechanisms mediate consolidation of learning about cues that signal learned sources of danger (i.e., second-order conditioned fear) compared with those involved in consolidation of learning about cues that signal innate sources of danger (i.e., first-order conditioned fear). These findings carry important implications because second-order learning could underlie aberrant fear-related behaviors (e.g., in anxiety disorders) as a consequence of neutral secondary cues being integrated into associative fear networks established through first-order pairings, and thereby becoming potent conditioned reinforcers and predictors of fear. Therefore, our data suggest that targeting such second-order conditioned triggers of fear may require pharmacological intervention different to that typically used for first-order conditioned cues.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Mitral Valve Repair: State of the Art Review
Authors: Van Praet Karel M ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;, Stamm Christof ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;, Sündermann Simon H ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;,   DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany, Meyer Alexander ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;,   DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany,   Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Germany, Unbehaun Axel ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;, Montagner Matteo ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;, Nazari Shafti Timo Z ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;,   DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany,   Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Germany, Jacobs Stephan ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;, Falk Volkmar ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;,   DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany,   Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Germany,   Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany, Kempfert Jörg ,   German Heart Center Berlin, Germany;
Published: January 2018

Minimally invasive surgical mitral valve repair (MVRepair) has become routine for the treatment of mitral valve regurgitation, and indications have been expanded to include reoperations. Current European Society of Cardiology/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease recommended standards in terms of mitral valve disease differentiation, timing of intervention and surgical techniques to improve patient care. Numerous minimally invasive techniques to lessen the invasiveness have been described, such as the minimal-access J-sternotomy (ministernotomy), the parasternal incision, the port-access technique and the right minithoracotomy. Despite the development of catheter-based techniques, surgical repair remains the gold standard today for nearly all patients with degenerative valvular diseases and the majority of patients with other types of valvular diseases. Techniques include resection of the prolapsed segment, neo-chordae implantation and ring annuloplasty. In this review, the current indications for mitral valve surgery are summarised and state-of-the-art MVRepair techniques are highlighted.
Labour income inequality and the informal sector in Colombian cities
Authors: Ariza John , Montes-Rojas Gabriel
Published: January 2018

Labour markets in developing countries are crucial to determine income inequality. In this paper, we use a panel data approach to study the effect of the informal sector on labour income inequality for thirteen cities in Colombia from 2002-2015. We use the rate of underemployment, the average duration of unemployment and the intensity of forced migration from armed conflicts as instruments for the urban informal sector. Results suggest that the informal sector has a positive and statistically significant effect on labour income inequality, which implies that an increase by one percentage point in the informal sector increases the Gini coefficient of labour income by about 0.07.
The rise of the middle class in Ecuador during the oil boom
Authors: Gachet Iván , Grijalva Diego F. , Ponce Paúl , Rodríguez Damián
Published: January 2018

In this paper we analyse the evolution of the middle class in Ecuador during the commodities boom (2005-2015). Using the definition of middle class proposed by López-Calva and Ortiz-Juárez (2014), we document an impressive rise of the middle class, which doubled in this period and peaked at 37.4% of the population in 2015. We show that both economic growth and inequality reduction have played an important role in this social change, although growth is responsible for over three-quarters thereof. Based on an analysis of the macroeconomic and labour conditions associated with the evolution of the middle class, we argue that the recent slow-down in growth and in inequality reduction following the end of the commodities boom poses a risk for the size of the middle class, which represents a serious challenge for policy makers.
Desigualdad del ingreso en Colombia: un estudio por departamentos
Authors: Sánchez-Torres Roberto Mauricio
Published: January 2018

Colombia es uno de los países de América Latina con mayor desigualdad del ingreso. No obstante, ese nivel de desigualdad es resultado de grandes heterogeneidades espaciales que contribuyen en diferente magnitud a la elevada desigualdad. En este artículo se analiza la desigualdad del ingreso en Colombia, haciendo énfasis en las diferencias interdepartamentales y las heterogeneidades en la explicación de la desigualdad para cada departamento según fuentes de ingreso. En la elaboración del artículo se utilizaron los microdatos de las encuestas de hogares de Colombia, se calcularon cuatro indicadores de desigualdad y se estimaron diferentes descomposiciones del índice de Theil y el coeficiente de Gini.
Tystnad – talande tystnad: Luckor och möjlighetsutrymmen i Alice Munros novell ”Hateship, friendship, courtship, loveship, marriage”*
Authors: Anderson Adrian
Published: January 2018

Abstract saknas
Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com HIV em um centro de referência no sul do Brasil. Características de dez anos.
Authors: Silva Claudinei Mesquita da , Jorge Alex Sandro , Dalbosco Kelin , Peder Leyde Daiane de , Horvath Josana Dranka , Teixeira Jorge Juarez Vieira , Bertolini Dennis Armando
Published: January 2018

Justificativa e Objetivos: A epidemia da infecção pelo HIV constitui um verdadeiro mosaico de sub-epidemias regionais. O estudo possuiu como objetivo descrever o perfil 2 dos pacientes recém-infectados com HIV em um centro de referência no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, a partir de informações de prontuários e da Rede Nacional de Sistema de Controle de Testes de Laboratório. Foi realizada uma

análise descritiva, agrupadas pelo sexo, das características ociodemográficas, comportamentais e sorológica dos pacientes infectados pelo HIV, entre janeiro de 2005 a dezembro 2014. A associação entre as variáveis qualitativas foi realizada utilizando-se os testes Qui-quadrado ou Teste Exato de Fisher, e as quantitativas foram analisadas pelo

Teste de Wilcoxon. O nível de significância foi fixado em 5%. Resultados: A epidemia apresentou taxas crescentes, principalmente no sexo masculino e no município de Cascavel. A mediana da idade da população foi de 33 anos, sendo que 680 (57,43 %) eram homens. Em relação ao estado civil, o sexo masculino era predominantemente solteiro (51,99% versus (vs.) 34,10%). O tempo de diagnóstico menor/igual a dois anos

foi maior entre os homens (29,26% vs. 20,83%). A mediana da ontagem de células T CD4+ no sexo feminino foi superior ao masculino (416 células/mm3 vs. 334,5 células/mm3 ; p < 0,0001). Conclusão: Os características sociodemográficas, comportamentais e as disparidades regionais devem ser levadas em conta na formulação de programas de prevenção.

DESCRITORES: HIV. Epidemiologia. Síndrome de Imunodeficiência Adquirida.
Visualization of authority: the Wilton Diptych symbolism and sacralization of the monarch's image
Authors:   Odessa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Chepizhenko Vadym
Published: January 2018

The Wilton Diptych is the best painting in the International Gothic style in England. This work of art is the earliest preserved lifetime image of the British monarch. The article touches upon the visualization of Richard II’s power. The author studies how the monarch’s sacred image emerged. Special attention is paid to the Wilton Diptych’s symbols. The author focuses on the ideological usage of visual symbols by the English king. He analyses the characters of the Saints who are accompanying the King: Edward the Confessor, Edmund the Martyr and St. John the Baptist. The Biblical symbolism in the Diptych is highly important as far as the image of Richard may be compared with the one of Christ the Savior. The ideological aspects of the picture were revealed, including the image of Richard as a King-Peacemaker and Crusader King, the mystical marriage between him and his kingdom etc. The author puts forward an idea that Richard used the Diptych to position himself as a God's chosen king. Having transferred his kingdom to the Virgin Mary, he received a divine mandate to rule.
Bupivacaine 0.5% vs. levobupivacaine 0.5% for epidural anaesthesia for caesarean section: a comparative study
Authors: Pahuja Heena D. , Tajne Megha P. , Bhure Anjali R. , Chauhan Savita M.
Published: January 2018

Background: Levobupivacaine has been purported to be as efficacious as Bupivacaine for epidural anaesthesia in recent literature.Methods: With the intent to study the same in caesarean section cases in our set up, we observed various intra- and post-operative variables in two groups (Levobupivacaine and Bupivacaine) of 60 healthy parturients. Sixty parturients for elective caesarean section were allocated randomly to receive epidural block with 10-20 ml of either 0.5% Levobupivacaine with Fentanyl 25µg or 0.5% Bupivacaine with Fentanyl 25µg to reach T6 level.Results: Mean total volume in Bupivacaine group was 15.23ml and in Levobupivacaine group was 12.76 ml. The difference was statistically significant. There was significant difference between the groups in the sensory block. The onset of analgesia was earlier in Levobupivacaine group. Mean time was 6.20 minutes in Bupivacaine group and 4.36 minutes in Levobupivacaine group. The duration of motor block was significantly short in Levobupivacaine group. Mean Time for recovery from motor block in Bupivacaine group was 2.5 hours and in Levobupivacaine group 1.5 hours. Mean time to achieve T6 height was earlier in Levobupivacaine group i.e. 16.46 minutes in Bupivacaine group and 13.26 minutes in Levobupivacaine group. Duration of postoperative analgesia was similar. There was no significant difference in neonatal outcome.Conclusions: Levobupivacaine was found to fare better than Bupivacaine in the studied intra and post-operative parameters and is hence recommended over racemic Bupivacaine for epidural block in patients undergoing elective cesarean section.
Competency indices to assess the knowledge, skills and abilities of clinical research professionals
Authors: Hornung Carlton A. , Jones Carolynn Thomas , Calvin-Naylor Nancy A. , Kerr Jared , Sonstein Stephen A. , Hinkley Terri , Ellingrod Vicki L.
Published: January 2018

Background: Clinical research in the 21st century will require a well-trained workforce to ensure that research protocols yield valid and reliable results. Several organizations have developed lists of core competencies for clinical trial coordinators, administrators, monitors, data management/informaticians, regulatory affairs personnel and others.

Methods: We used data collected by the joint task force on the harmonization of core competencies from a survey of research professionals working in the US and Canada to create competency Indices for clinical research professionals. Respondents reported how competent they believed themselves to be on 51 clinical research core competencies.

Results: Factor analyzes identified 20 core competencies that defined a competency index for clinical research professionals—general (CICRP-General, i.e., GCPs) and four sub-indices that define specialized research functions: Medicines Development; Ethics and Participant Safety; Data Management; and Research Concepts.  

Conclusions: These indices can be used to gage an individual’s readiness to perform general as well as more advanced research functions; to assess the education and training needs of research workers; and to evaluate the impact of education and training programs on the competency of research coordinators, monitors and other clinical research team members.
Laser welding of dissimilar metallic materials with use of diffractive optical elements
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Murzin S. , Liedl G. ,   Vienna University of Technology
Published: January 2018

A use of laser technology it is progressive in the welding of dissimilar materials. Pulsed laser welding of an aluminum alloy AK4 and a titanium alloy VT5-1 was performed. Processing conditions were determined, the realization of which during melting of materials in the heat-affected zone makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous structure without voids and shells, potentially producing sufficiently sound welded joints. To create the required power density distribution across the laser beam, it was found expedient to use diffractive optical elements. Aluminum and copper were welded by continuous laser beam. It is determined that laser action with its well-defined and precise localized heat input makes it possible to significantly reduce the growth of intermetallic compound layers.
Reconstruction of anatomical structures using statistical shape modeling
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Smelkina N. , Kosarev R. ,   MedX, Nikonorov A. ,   Samara National Research University,   MedX,   Image Processing Systems Institute оf RAS – Branch of the FSRC “Crystallography and Photonics” RAS, Bairikov I. ,   Samara State Medical University, Ryabov K. ,   Samara State Medical University, Avdeev A. ,   Samara National Research University, Kazanskiy N. ,   Samara National Research University,   Image Processing Systems Institute оf RAS – Branch of the FSRC “Crystallography and Photonics” RAS
Published: January 2018

We propose a method of statistical shape modeling applied to reconstructing anatomical structures with deformations. This method is promising for modeling deformed body parts that have a certain normal shape. The method of statistical shape modeling allows one to reconstruct a deformed object using information about the normal shape of the body part and its undeformed fragment, while taking into account peculiar individual features and the variability relative to the average shape.
Geoinformation system for amplitude-frequency analysis of geomagnetic variations and space weather observation data
Authors:   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Vorobev A. , Vorobeva G. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University
Published: January 2018

We present and describe a method to conduct correlation and amplitude-frequency analysis of the observational data of geomagnetic variations and space weather that is based on the combined use of a concept of single information space, models and methods of wavelet and Fourier analysis, and geo-information technologies. The method includes formalized elements of mathematical and methodological support for conducting amplitude-frequency and correlation analysis of the observations of geomagnetic variations and space weather and is verified by means of a prototype in-house platform-independent web-oriented geoinformation system GEOMAGNET (https:// www.geomagnet.ru). The proposed method is verified using data obtained from the magnetic observatories of the INTERMAGNET network and space weather data from the artificial Earth satellite ACE. Results of the observation, automated correlation and amplitude-frequency analysis of signals that provide information on the geomagnetic field and space weather variations at specified time intervals both on the Earth's surface and in near-Earth space are discussed and evaluated.
Purinergic signalling in B cells
Authors: Przybyła Tomasz , Sakowicz-Burkiewicz Monika , Pawełczyk Tadeusz
Published: January 2018

Adenosine and adenosine triphosphate are involved in purinergic signalling which plays important role in control of immune system. Much data have been obtained regarding impact of purinergic signalling on dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes and T lymphocytes, however less attention has been paid to purinergic regulation of B cells. This review summarizes present knowledge about ATP- and Ado-dependant signalling in B lymphocytes. Human B cells have been shown to express A2A­-R and A­3-R and each subtype of P2 receptors. Surface of B cells exhibits two antagonistic ectoenzymatic pathways, one relays on constitutive secretion and resynthesis of ATP while the second one depends on degradation of adenosine nucleotides to nucleosides and their subsequent degradation. Inactivated B cells remain under suppressive impact of autocrine and paracrine Ado however activated B lymphocytes increase ATP release and production. ATP protects B cells from suppressive impact of Ado and exerts pro-inflammatory impact on target tissues, it is also involved in IgM release. Ado synthesis however is related with optimal development, implantation and maintenance of plasmocyte population in bone marrow during primary immune response. Moreover Ado plays important role in immunoglobulin class switching which is a key mechanism of humoral immune response. Disruption of purinergic signalling is related with severe clinical implications. Impairment of Ado production in environment of B cells is one of the factors responsible for common variable immunodeficiency. List of evidence suggests also that dysfunction of immune system observed during diabetes may in part depend on disrupted ATP and Ado metabolism in B cells.