bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application Of CFD To Modeling Of Squeeze Mode Magnetorheological Dampers
Authors: Gołdasz Janusz , Sapiński Bogdan
Published: November 2015

The so-called squeeze flow involves a magnetorheological (MR) fluid sandwiched between two planar surfaces setting up a flow channel. The height of the channel varies according to a prescribed displacement or force profile. When exposed to a magnetic field of sufficient strength MR fluids develop a yield stress. In squeeze-mode devices the yield stress varies with both the magnetic field magnitude and the channel height. In this paper an unsteady flow model of an MR fluid in squeeze mode is proposed. The model is developed in Ansys Fluent R16. The MR material flow model is based on the apparent viscosity approach. In order to investigate the material's behaviour the authors prepared a model of an idealized squeeze-mode damper in which the fluid flow is enforced by varying the height of the channel. Using mesh animation, the model plate is excited, and as the mesh moves, the fluid is squeezed out of the gap. In the simulations the model is subjected to a range of displacement inputs of frequencies from 10 to 20 Hz, and local yield stress levels up to 30 kPa. The results are presented in the form of time histories of the normal force on the squeezing plate and loops of force vs. displacement (velocity).
Stress State Of Plate With Incisions Under The Action Of Oscillating Concentrated Forces
Authors: Shvabyuk Vasyl’ , Sulym Heorhiy , Mikulich Olena
Published: November 2015

This paper proposes the novel technique for analysis of dynamic stress state of multi-connected infinite plates under the action of oscillating forces. Calculation of dynamic stresses at the incisions of plates is held using the boundary-integral equation method and the theory of complex variable functions. The numerical implementation of the developed algorithmis based on the method of mechanical quadratures and collocation technique. The algorithm is effective in the analysis of the stress state caused by steady-state vibrations of plates.
Accuracy Of Positioning And Orientation Of Effector Of Planar Parallel Manipulator 3RRR
Authors: Prucnal-Wiesztort Monika
Published: November 2015

Parallel manipulator belongs to group of mechanisms with closed kinematic chains. This feature involves both advantages and disadvantages. The study examined the issue of accuracy of a planar system with three degrees of freedom, with revolute pairs, showing the effect of errors of the drives settings on effector positioning deviation. Enclosed is a numerical example for which analyzed the deviation in motion manipulator when going through the singular configuration. Based on the analysis was determined the area around the singular positions for which to obtain the orientation of the assumed accuracy is impossible.
Delamination Resistance Of Laminate Made With VBO MTM46/HTS Prepreg
Authors: Czarnocki Piotr , Czajkowska Kamila
Published: November 2015

A laminate made with the Vacuum Bag Only (VBO) prepregs can be cured out of autoclave. Because of low curing pressure such a process can result in deterioration of laminate mechanical properties. They can be significantly lower than those displayed by the autoclave cured ones. The resistance against delamination can be among the most affected. Since this property is a week point of all the laminates it was of particular interest. Delamination resistance of unidirectional laminate made from VBO MTM46/HTS(12K) prepreg was in the scope of the presented research and the critical values of the Strain Energy Release Rates and the Paris-type equations corresponding to Mode I, Mode II and Mixed-Mode I/II static and cyclic loadings, respectively, were determined.
Maximizing the Amount of Deposited Particles During a Severe Asthma Attack Using the Stochastic Lung Model
Authors: Zoltan Sarkany
Published: November 2015

Background: The aim of this study was to use a computerized lung model to simulate the deposition of inhaled particles in the human airways during a severe asthma attack, in order to find the combination of breathing- and particle-related parameters which leads to the highest deposited fractions in the target areas of the airways.

Material and Method: A stochastic lung model was used to simulate the deposition of 1 nm – 100 μm particles during a severe asthma attack in bronchial generations 9-16. Breathing parameters were chosen to reflect the use of a therapeutic inhalation device, with a 10 s symmetrical breathing cycle and 2000 ml tidal volume. To maximize the deposited fraction in the target areas, further simulations were carried out changing the tidal volume (750-3000 ml), the length of the breathing cycle (2-20 s) and the length of breathing pause following inhalation (0-10 s).

Results: The highest deposited fraction of 51.50% in bronchial generations 9–16 was obtained in the case of 0.01 μm particles, this value being more than4 times higher compared to the highest deposition of 3–6 μm particles currently used in inhalation devices (11.81% in the case of 5 μm particles). Modifying breathing-related parameters did not lead to valuable increases in the deposited fractions in the investigated region.

Conclusions: Deposition fractions in the therapeutically important areas of the airways may be more than4 times higher in the case of 0.01 μm particles, compared to particles currently used in the treatment of asthma bronchiale.
Food Consumption Frequency at Students from Rural Areas from Moldova Republic
Authors: Victor Zepca , Monica Tarcea , Aculina Zaporojan
Published: November 2015

Objective: Our study aim to evaluate the characteristics of nutrition behavior at teenagers from Moldova’s rural area schools in order to make a profile of risk behavior related to diet and to implement efficient community intervention programs.

Methods: We studied in 2014 the daily frequency consumption of the main food groups, in a sample of 1236 students of 7th-12th class, from rural localities of the Republic of Moldova, using the questionnaire method.

Results: The teenagers had consumed on the day preceding the interview, cereals and bakery products – 99.2%, fruits – 86.7%, cooked vegetables – 72.6%, meat dishes – 72.1%, potatoes – 50.3%, dairy products – 46.9%, raw vegetables – 44.7%, eggs – 25.3%, fish – 19.4%, raw fruits juice – 14.8%, legumes – 12.5% of students. From those investigated 52.6% have consumed food with high fat content higher than recommended levels. Regarding the food groups present in the menu we registered a satisfactory level of consumption by the students for cereals and bakery products, fruits, cooked vegetables and meat dishes; relatively satisfactory - the consumption of dairy products, raw vegetables and potatoes; unsatisfactory level for the consumption of eggs, fish and legumes.

Conclusions: We sustain the idea that it is important to constantly evaluate the risk factors related to the inadequate diet at teenagers and to implement efficient community intervention in order to prevent nutrition related diseases that can occur.
Specific Characteristics of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Mures Area
Authors: Réka Fejér Enikő , Andrea Bodi , Imre Egyed-Zsigmond , Ioan Jung , Septimiu Voidăzan , Zoltán Ábrám
Published: November 2015

Although head and neck cancers have a rising incidence, these diseases are less investigated because of their localisations’ heterogenity. The major risk factors susceptible to influence the evolution of the disease are smoking, alcohol consumption and infection with human papilloma virus. Using data from Mures County Emergency Hospital’s histopathology register, we made a retrospective study of 190 cases from the last two years. Factors of interest included age, sex, localization, histopathological subtype and differentiation grade. Median age at diagnosis was 61.31 years, the disease presenting highest incidence in the 51-60 age subgroup and a clear male predominance (5.75:1). The most frequent localization is lower lip (28%) and the dominant histopathological subtype is cheratinised squamous cell carcinoma (83,8%) and G2 differentiation grade (48,1%). This study supports the finding of increased incidence of cheratinised squamous cell carcinoma in this region. However the literature emphasizes rising incidence of head and neck cancer in younger, we observed that increase in Mures area occurred in 51-60 age group. Lower lip most frequent localization makes possible an early diagnosis.
Metabolic Effects of Two Different Doses of Venlafaxine Therapy on Rats
Authors: Annamária Imre , Melinda Kolcsár , Alexandra Groşan , Imre M , Titica Dogaru Maria
Published: November 2015

Objectives: Venlafaxine is an antidepressant, categorized as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with suspected metabolic side effects. The aim of our study was to assess these metabolic effects in rats, using two different doses of venlafaxine.

Materials: Three groups of Wistar rats have been treated with venlafaxine during seven weeks. The rats have received a daily dose of 10mg/kg (D1) and 40 mg/kg (D2) while the control group (Dc) has received no treatment. Rats were given “ad libitum” access to food and water. The rats were weighted at treatment day 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49. After completion of venlafaxine treatment, the rats were sacrificed, blood was harvested and the following biochemical parameters have been determined from the centrifuged plasma: triglycerides, glucose and total cholesterol levels.

Results: Both the 10 mg/kg and the 40 mg/kg dose venlafaxine therapy resulted in a highly significant increase of rat’s weight. Compared with the control group the mean weight of D1 group has increased with 130.5 ±21.79 g (<0.01) while the mean weight of the second group increased with 94±24.16 g (p<0.01). In addition weight gain of D1 group was significantly higher than that of D2 group (p<0.01). Venlafaxine therapy induced significant increase in serum triglyceride levels (140.04±55.46 mg/dL p<0.01, 83.59±52.85 mg/dL p=0.05). This metabolic effect has been shown to be more evident in case of 10mg/kg dose therapy (p=0.03). Simultaneously, serum cholesterol levels have been reduced, however this decrease proved to be significant only in case of group D2 (p=0.03). Despite of increased triglyceride values, glucose levels were significantly decreased in both treated groups (133.33±36.18mg/dL p=0.05, 118.10±51.98 mg/dL p=0.02).

Conclusions: Our results suggest that venlafaxine administrated to rats has unwished dose related metabolic effects such as significant increase in weight and hypertriglyceridemia, however serum cholesterol and plasma glucose levels appears to be decreased by this medication.
Anaesthesia and Postoperative Analgesia Performed by Insertion of a Perineural Catheter at the Brachial Plexus Site - Case Series
Authors: Alexandra Lazar , Janos Szederjesi , Maria Copotoiu Sanda , Szidonia Simon Noemi , Iudita Badea , Leonard Azamfirei
Published: November 2015

Postoperative pain management is of major importance and the existence of a device that ensures a good analgesia in the immediate postoperative period and also removes the side effects of the systemic drugs, is becoming a necessity.

Objectives: The goal was to obtain a good quality anaesthesia and also a good postoperative analgesia by inserting a perineural catheter at the brachial plexus site.

Material and method: This study included adult patients who underwent brachial plexus anaesthesia through a perineural catheter inserted at the brachial plexus site. The perineural catheter was introduced by ultrasound guidance with neurostimulation control. After insertion, a quantity of a an-aesthetic admixture of 0.4mg/kg is administered. The anaesthetic admixture contained Ropivacaine and Lidocaine, equimolar concentration of 0.5% In the postoperative period, the analgesia was ensured trough the already installed catheter. The analgesic mixture contained Ropivacaine and Lidocaine, equivalent concentrations of 0.25%. The administration rate was 5 ml every 4 hours, starting 6 hours postoperatively.

Results: The anaesthesia, obtained through the perineural catheter, was a good quality anaesthesia ensuring both, good sensory and motor block. The feedback regarding postoperative analgesia was positive, this type of pain management being efficient and without the systemic drug side effects. This approach of brachial plexus block was accepted easily by the patients and was rated as a very satisfactory method.

Conclusions: The insertion of a perineural catheter for anaesthesia and postoperative analgesia represents a safe and efficient method of achieving both analgesia and anaesthesia.
Pancreatico-gastric Anastomosis Following Cephalic Duodenopancreatectomy: New Perspectives
Authors: Tudor A , Butiurca VO , Nicolescu C , Tudor Bianca , Gurzu Simona , Molnar C , Copotoiu C
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Although in recent years there have been various versions of pancreatic - digestive reconstruction after cephalic duodenopancreatectomy, this issue is still highly debated.

Purpose. This paper aims at comparing postoperative outcomes after gastric pancreatic anastomosis using transfixing threads as opposed to the purse-string suture method.

Material and methods. Our study consisted of a lot of 15 patients that underwent cephalic duodenopancreatectomy from the 1th of May 2014 to the 30th of April 2015. The pancreatico - digestive reconstruction was done by pancreatico-gastric anastomosis using three different techniques: double purse-string suture used for the patients in the first group (group 1, n = 5 patients); one purse-string suture and 2 transfixing “U-sutures” passed through the stomach and the pancreas for the patients in the second group (group 2, n = 5 patients) and ductomucosa anastomosis with pancreatico-gastric transfixing threads in the third group (group 3, n = 5 patients).

Results. Morbidity was 40% for the entire lot. Pancreatic fistula, occurred in two patients, one type A fistula in a patient in group 2 and one type B fistula in a patient in group 3. Biliary fistula occurred in one patient in group 2. Mortality was at 13.3%. The median time to carry out the anastomosis in group 1 was 14 minutes, for patients in group 2, 20 minutes, and for patients in group 3, 25 minutes.

Conclusions. Gastric pancreatic anastomosis using purse-string sutures is a feasible, safe and fast process which reduces complications due to transfixing pancreatic threads.
Prevalence of Rubber Dam Usage Among Dental Practitioners and Final Year Students in Tirgu Mures: A Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Csinszka K.-Ivácson A. , Monica Monea , Mihai Pop , Aurita Albu-Stan , Angela Borda
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of rubber dam usage among endodontists, other specialized practitioners, general practitioners and undergraduate final year students in Tirgu-Mures, Romania.

Material and method: A questionnaire was distributed among 250 subjects. Final year students and dentists were surveyed in relation to their prevalence of rubber dam usage.

Results: Overall response rate was 72,4. While 84,07% of the subjects knew about the advantages, only 49,72% used it during their practice, mostly endodontist (90%) and other specialized practitioners (53,84%). The use of this system on pediatric patients was lower compared to adult patients. The frequency of the rubber dam usage during endodontic treatment was higher (71,11 %) compared to dental restorations (35,55%), and 84,49% of the subjects were are willing to gain further knowledge about this system.

Conclusions: The results were similar to other reports originally from Eastern-European countries. The low percentage of the rubber dam usage presents quality issues, safety and medico-legal concerns for both the patient and the dentist. Greater emphasis should be placed on the advantages of rubber dam. Perception of final year dental students needs to be improved and continuing dental education for practitioners should be necessary to update their knowledge.
The Prevalence of Chronic Liver Disease: Implications for Renal Impairment
Authors: Nicoleta Sala , Ligia Bancu , Corina Ureche , Maria Botoman , Ionela Simon , Marius Ciorba , Grigore Dogaru
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Renal disease plays an important role in the prognosis and evolution of chronic liver disease, in particular in its advanced stages. The aim of our study is to analyze the prevalence of chronic liver disease (hepatitis and cirrhosis of different etiologies) and to assess possible correlations between these and impaired renal function.

Material and methods. We conducted a retrospective observational study based on data collected from observation charts of patients admitted to the 2nd Medical Clinic, Emergency County Hospital Tirgu-Mures between January 1st 2012-December 31 2013. In this study we included, based on informed consent, 401 patients with documented liver pathology, with preserved or modified renal function.

Results. Age distribution shows that 41.1% of cases occured between 51 and 60 years of age. Sex distribution shows that 65.3% of cases were male. Toxic cirrhosis was found in 40.8% of males and viral C cirrhosis in 15.1% of women. Toxic cirrhosis associated the following complications: ascites (35.7%), encephalopathy (75%), PAH (68.6%), esophageal varices and upper GI bleed (35.7%). Analyzing the risk factors of renal failure we found that increased mean values of creatinine are associated with viral B cirrhosis (p = 0.02), portal vein diameter (OR 1.37), portal hypertension (OR 1.24), male gender (OR 1.84) and the age group 61-70 yo (OR 1.04).

Conclusions. The current study demonstrated that renal function in chronic liver disease correlates with viral etiology of liver disease, its advanced stage, presence of portal hypertension, older age and male gender.
Experimental Evaluation of Dental Implant Biomechanics Given Certain Stages of the Fixing Substrate Deterioration by Video Image Correlation Method
Authors: Tamás Száva Dániel , Ioan Száva , Botond Gálfi , Alina Iacob , Cecilia Petrovan , Alina Ormenişan , Melinda Székely
Published: November 2015

Background: Dental implants are useful tools and represent a widely spread technique for oral rehabilitation. Their long standingness is highly influenced by the mechanical and geometrical properties of the surrounding osseous tissue in which they are placed. In some unsuccessful cases though, the dental implant is exposed to masticatory forces and other functional acts, and osseous tissue may resorb near its vicinity, leading to the dental implants loss. We investigated the strain distribution inside the fixating substrate, given certain stages of its deterioration near the dental implants.

Material and methods: For our investigations we used cilindro-conical screw-type dental which were submitted to vertical forces between 0-1000 N. The dental implants were fixed inside a plastic material used in photo-elastic measurements.

To evaluate the strain distribution inside the fixing substrate, we used a non-contact, experimental investigation tool, the Video Image Correlation (VIC-3D) optical system. This system allows the implementation in the dental implants optimisation from stress-strain state point of view.

Results: The strain field distribution inside the fixating substrate was measured at three different levels of the dental implant, when it was loaded alone and in the case when there were loaded two dental implants simultaneously.

Conclusions: The most stresses are concentrated in the neck-area of the dental implant. If there are loaded two or more dental implants simultaneously, the distance between them influences strain distribution. The measurements were conducted in vitro and do not represent the in vivo conditions, but serve further important facts regarding biomechanical properties of dental implants.
Predictive Factors in the Onset of Epilepsy in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Anamaria Todoran Butilă , Anca Sin , Cristian Micheu , Katalin Csep , Septimiu Voidăzan , Elisabeta Racos Szabo
Published: November 2015

Objectives: the aim of the study was to identify predictive risk factors of the development of epilepsy in patients with cerebral palsy (CP).

Materials and methods: We performed a bidirectional study in wich 177 patients diagnosed with CP with and without epilepsy have been selected for characteristics and risk factor comparison. We analyzed the history related to pregnancy and birth, gestational age, birth weight, fetal distress, the presence of neonatal convulsion, age of onset for the epilepsy, associated types of seizures, the response to anticonvulsant therapy and brain changes identified by Computer tomography and Magnetic resonance imaging examination.

Results: epilepsy was found in 91 (51.4%) patients, most frequently in quadriplegic form (76.2% vs 23.8%), OR:3.04, 95% CI:1.42-6.52, p-0.005. In this group, the most common were partial seizures (34.4%), epileptic encephalopathy like Lennox Gastaut and West type (62.5%), and also neonatal seizures. Eighty percent of on-term infants with neonatal seizures later developed epilepsy. Factors like fetal distress, low birth weight, cytomegalovirus infection, history of pathological pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of developing epilepsy. Imaging change, especially cerebral atrophy had the highest frequency (37.5% vs 16%) in pacients with epilepsy. 28 (30.8%) patients had resistance epilepsy, 13 (46.4%) of them having quadriplegia. Early onset of epilepsy constitutes a sign of severity of epileptic forms (OR:3.09, 95% CI:1.187-8.061, p-0.01).

Conclusions: The data are consistent with those in literature but is necessary following this study to clarify and support the assumption on preddictive factors and prognosis of epilepsy in this population.
Sigmoid Models for the Growth Curves in Medium-Growing Meat Type Chickens, Raised under Semi-Confined Conditions
Authors: Michalczuk Monika , Damaziak Krzysztof , Goryl Antoni
Published: November 2015

The study analyzed the growth of medium-growing chickens of the CCGP experimental line, using Gompertz, Logistic, and Richards models as well as body gain curves. The birds were reared until 9 wk of age. To fit BW values to the applied models, determination coefficients (R2

,Ř2) and standard error of the mean (±SE) were calculated for 487 male and 493 female chickens. The comparison of results obtained demonstrated the Gompertz model to be the most precise equation to describe the growth of both sexes of CCGP chickens, though in all examined models the determination coefficients were approximating 99%. According to the Gompertz model, the chickens may reach the maximum BW at the age of 16 wk (5900 g - males and 4000 g - females), whereas the maximum daily BW gain - on day 47 (69.0 g) in males and on day 41 (50.0 g) in females. Values achieved in the Logistic model were the most diverging from the values obtained with other models, whereas the Richards model may be successfully applied to estimate BW of chickens. Females were reaching the maximum BW gains earlier, but the curve of their BW gain was proceeding with two peaks (at ca. 4 wk - 313.09 g/wk and at 6 wk - 327.59 g/wk), which was probably due to partial growth deceleration as a result of allowing the birds to use free ranges on day 14. In the case of males, the maximum BW gain (727.35 g/wk) was reached at 6.2 wk.
Evaluation of the Nutritional Value of Yellow (Lupinus Luteus) and Blue Lupine (Lupinus Angustifolius) Cultivars as Protein Sources in Rats
Authors: Sobotka Wiesław , Stanek Maria , Bogusz Jacek
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to determine the nutritional value of protein from the seeds of yellow lupine (Lupinus luteus) and blue lupine (Lupinus angustifolius) cultivars, contained in diets fed to rats. The experimental diets were based on the seeds of three yellow lupine (Mister, Markiz, Taper) or three blue lupine (Sonet, Boruta, Elf) cultivars as the only or main protein source. The nutritional value of the diets was determined based on their chemical composition and alkaloid and oligosaccharide concentrations. Lupine seeds were fed to male Wistar rats with initial body weight of approx. 112 g. Alkaloid concentrations in yellow lupine and blue lupine seeds were 0.07-0.09 g kg-1 DM and 0.26-0.39 g kg-1 DM, respectively. Oligosaccharide concentrations in yellow and blue lupine seeds were 108.0-108.9 and 65.4-67.6 g kg-1 DM, respectively. The inclusion of lupine seeds in rat diets increased fecal and urinary nitrogen losses, and decreased nitrogen retention by approx. 10%. The diets based on yellow or blue lupine seeds were characterized by lower nitrogen digestibility and lower biological value of protein than the control diet containing casein.
Deutsche und jüdische Ruinen der Erinnerung in Worms und Hamburg
Authors: Roemer Nils
Published: November 2015

In addition to being witnesses of a vanished past, ruins refer to the former building and tell the story of its destruction. Two ruins, which can also be described as memorial sites, can exemplify different strategies of dealing with these material remnants: the destroyed synagogue of Worms and the St Nikolai Church in Hamburg. The destroyed synagogue of Worms was rebuilt as a symbol of the history of the Jewish community prior to 1933 and as a memorial to the Holocaust. In contrast, the St Nikolai Church in Hamburg was left in ruins which constitute a memorial for the air raids as well as a reminder of the Nazi crimes. The following article will reflect on these different strategies and on the reactions and perceptions of the visitors. Furthermore it will try to reveal the different levels of meaning and the interconnectedness of the memories of the German-Jewish past, the Second World War and the Holocaust.
Eine nicht ausgetragene Kontroverse: Die Beziehung Gershom Scholems zu Oskar Goldberg und Erich Unger
Authors: Voigts Manfred
Published: November 2015

At a first glance the relationships between Gershom Scholem and Oskar Goldberg or Erich Unger seem to be meaningless. However, from 1921 to 1979, Scholem was frequently confronted with both. He was hostile towards Goldberg who was better known in Berlin in the twentieth century than he was himself. He insulted him in a letter to a mistress of Erich Engel’s, who was a friend of Erich Unger. By doing so Scholem could be sure that Goldberg would read it. He took Goldberg for a cabbalist, but Goldberg firmly denied this. Unger wrote an essay criticising the idea of cabbala supported by Scholem, but it was not published. After the death of Oskar Goldberg Scholem wrote about him in the Encyclopaedia Judaica even though he rejected Goldberg’s theories, but he was unable to describe him adequately. In 1977 Scholem placed Goldberg on a par with leading scholars by listing the Warburg-circle, the Institute for Social Science and the Oskar Goldberg group as the most important ›Jewish sects‹. In the same year he wrote in a letter that Goldberg was, regarding the cabbala-research, »in some way the exact opposite to what I was doing«. Against the background of this very tense relationship it obviously is very unfortunate that a discussion between Scholem and Goldberg about cabbala never happened.
Recent data concerning heparanase: focus on fibrosis, inflammation and cancer
Authors: Secchi Maria Francesca , Masola Valentina , Zaza Gianluigi , Lupo Antonio , Gambaro Giovanni , Onisto Maurizio
Published: November 2015

Heparanase (HPSE) is a multitasking protein characterized by enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities. By means of its enzymatic activity, HPSE catalyzes the cutting of the side chains of heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans, thereby inducing the remodeling of the extracellular matrix and basement membranes. Thanks to the cleavage of HS, HPSE also promotes the release and diffusion of several HS-linked molecules such as growth factors, cytokines and enzymes. In addition to degrading HS chains, HPSE has non-enzymatic functions that trigger several signaling pathways. This signaling activity is achieved by interacting with transmembrane proteins, activating kinases such as Akt and Src, or modulating the activity of factors such as FGF-2 and TGF-β. Several studies have recently highlighted a possible intracellular activity for HPSE, particularly at nuclear level. While HPSE activity is quite limited in physiological conditions, its demonstrated increasing involvement in various pathological conditions, such as in tumor progression and renal disease, have attracted the attention of a growing number of researchers. The fact that no other molecule is capable of performing the same function as HPSE makes this enzyme an attractive potential target of medical treatment. With this short conceptual overview, we aim to provide an update on current knowledge concerning the HPSE protein in the experimental and clinical settings, paying particular attention to its role in fibrosis, inflammation and cancer.
Glyoxalase biochemistry
Authors: Honek John F.
Published: November 2015

The glyoxalase enzyme system utilizes intracellular thiols such as glutathione to convert α-ketoaldehydes, such as methylglyoxal, into D-hydroxyacids. This overview discusses several main aspects of the glyoxalase system and its likely function in the cell. The control of methylglyoxal levels in the cell is an important biochemical imperative and high levels have been associated with major medical symptoms that relate to this metabolite’s capability to covalently modify proteins, lipids and nucleic acid.
The emergence and nature of genres – a social-dynamic account
Authors: Østergaard Svend , Bundgaard Peer F.
Published: November 2015

This article has a double scope. First, we consider the dynamics inherent in the emergence of genres. Our view is that genres emerge relative to two sets of
The elusory kingdoms of the mind: Glosses on José Luis Caivano’s paper
Authors: Sonesson Göran
Published: November 2015

Peirce’s best idea, and the one least implemented by himself and his followers, is that of an ethics of terminology. Using this ethics as a tool, we suggest that many Peircean terms are in fact misleading, or, as he said himself at the end of his life, “injurious.” From the point of view of cognitive semiotics, there is no reason to abide by Peirce’s definition of semiosis, but, taking up the two quotes offered by Caivano, we demonstrate that they lead to different results, one being phenomenological and the other formalist. We go on to suggest that Peirce himself cannot have believed in the first definition, because then there could be no point in fallibilism and the community of scholars. In fact, we claim that what the different definitions of the “kingdoms” of nature show is precisely that human beings can liberate themselves from their
Study of Venturia inaequalis pseudothecia development and apple scab severity under Polish conditions
Authors: Meszka Beata
Published: November 2015

Studies conducted during 2009-2013 at the Experimental Orchard located in the central region of Poland showed that the highest number of V. inaequalis pseudothecia occurred on ‘McIntosh’ and ‘Cortland’ leaves. A smaller number of pseudothecia was found on the leaves of the Alwa and Jonagold cultivars, but there were no statistical differences. The first discharges of ascospores were noted at a similar time on the leaves of all of the apple cultivars, usually at the end of March or in early April. For the forecasting of ascospore discharges and dates of critical periods, a simulation model by RIMpro was used. The number of critical periods and apple scab severity differed in each season. The most critical periods (above 20) were recorded in 2010 and 2013, which also corresponded with a high severity of apple scab. The number of infected leaves and fruits on the untreated trees of the very susceptible cultivar McIntosh reached nearly 100% during these seasons. In other years, the severity of the disease on the same apple trees was lower and amounted to 30-54% of infected leaves and 23-80% of infected fruits.
On degrammaticalization: Controversial points and possible explanations
Authors: Viti Carlotta
Published: November 2015

This paper discusses the problem of degrammaticalization, that is, the exceptions to the unidirectionality of grammaticalization. After analyzing the criteria that allow us to distinguish between various instances of counter-directional change, two principles underlying degrammaticalization are identified; one is related to the type of language and the other to the type of target structures in which degrammaticalization occurs. Firstly, the targets of degrammaticalization are usually closed-class parts of speech with an abstract semantic component. Secondly, the languages in which counter-directional grammatical changes occur turn out to be deprived of an elaborate fusional morphology. These findings may also have an impact on the theoretical conception of grammaticalization, some of whose definitional properties are discussed. The paper ends with a discussion of a more controversial point, namely, counter-directional changes by folk etymology rather than by etymology proper.
Preferences and variation in word-initial phonotactics: A multi-dimensional evaluation of German and Polish
Authors: Orzechowska Paula , Wiese Richard
Published: November 2015

The goal of this paper is to discuss phonotactic constraints that govern the formation of word-initial consonant clusters in two different languages, German and Polish, and to establish a general procedure for a rank-ordering of clusters. The description of clusters is based on corpus and dictionary data. We define several dimensions in cluster description, namely (i) complexity of clusters, (ii) place of articulation, (iii) manner of articulation and (iv) voicing of segments, for which a total of 15 parameters is derived, each expressing a structural preference for cluster formation true to various degrees in the two languages. These preferences can be seen in part as extensions of the frequently used measure of sonority based mainly on manner of articulation features, and can be considered to provide a more detailed description of clusters than one based on sonority. In addition, a cluster analysis for the two sets of clusters lends support to the conclusions on the fundamental difference between Polish and German word-initial phonotactics. For each cluster, values obtained for every parameter are summed up to calculate an empirically justified rank ordering of the clusters in both languages.
Mechanochemical synthesis of 2,2-difluoro-4, 6-bis(β-styryl)-1,3,2-dioxaborines and their use in cyanide ion sensing
Authors: Sherin Daisy R. , Thomas Sherin G. , Rajasekharan Kallikat N.
Published: November 2015

The conversion of arylaldehydes to 1,7-diaryl-5-hydroxyhepta-1,4,6-trien-3-ones (curcuminoids) and the mechanochemical cyclization of these products to 2,2-difluoro-4,6-bis(β-styryl)-1,3,2-dioxaborines using BF3-Et2O are described. Investigation of the cyanide ion sensing ability of the 2,2-difluoro-4,6-bis(β-styryl)-1,3,2-dioxaborines, in relation to the substituent groups on the aryl ring, showed that a hydroxy susbstituent is required, preferably para to the intervening carbon bridge.
Greek λοιμός, Middle Persian rēm, and the Avestan root rai̯-
Authors: Milizia Paolo
Published: November 2015

The Greek name of the plague has not received a satisfactory etymological explanation so far. On the other hand, the largely accepted hypothesis that the Middle Persian noun rēm ‘dirt, impurity’ is derived from a verbal base meaning ‘defecate’ is, in fact, problematic. The present paper aims to show that MPers. rēm and Gk. λοιμός can be viewed as reflexes of a PIE stem *loi̯-mó- indicating a ‘polluted (and polluting) substance’ and that the Avestan root rai̯-, probably connected with MPers. rēm, must have had the generic meaning of ‘to dirt, to pollute’.
Repetition analysis function (ReAF) I
Authors: Jügel Thomas
Published: November 2015

Repetitions are relevant for several aspects of historical philology. With regard to Avestan, they may allow for the identification of ceremonial frames or opening and closing sections revealing the compositional structure of a ceremony. In case of manuscript comparison, the question arises whether a variant appears only once or in all of its repetitive passages. Furthermore, by analysing the compositional structure we may be able to detect ceremonial structures different to the practice of today. A secondary aspect relates to the interpretation of the grammaticality of Young Avestan passages. The repetition analysis provides evidence that passages which are hitherto considered ill-formed actually follow the rules of Avestan grammar. The scope of this study is to investigate computational means for detecting repetitive sequences. It represents a case study of the manuscript J2 by means of tools that were set up in the LOEWE priority programme Digital Humanities at the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main: a digital lexicon, a letter discrimination matrix for Avestan, and the programme Repetition Analysis Function. The article ReAF I offers some basic observations on repetitive sequences in the manuscript J2 and lays the foundation for ReAF II (Jügel forthc.), where the results of the repetition analyses will be used to discuss the compositional structure of the Yasna.
Der Flexionsyp idg. *sḗh2-ṷr̥ ‚saure Flüssigkeit‘, *nḗbh-s n. ‚Gewölk‘
Authors: Oettinger Norbert
Published: November 2015

Lengthened grade of root syllables in PIE words was either motivated or came about by analogy. The adjective *sh2ur-ó- > *suh₂ro- > *sūro- ‘sour and liquid’ is derived from *sḗh2-ṷr̥n. ‘sour fluid’ (> Hitt. šēḫur ‘urine’). Here the motivation of the lengthened grade can be guessed: Cuneiform Luvian šiḫuwa- ‘sharp, acid’ < *sēh2ṷ̥o- can be explained as vṛddhi derivation from an earlier *séh2-u- ‘sourness, sharpness’. The noun *sḗh₂-ṷr̥ has probably been derived from *sēh2ṷo-. Hieroglyphic Luvian tipas ‘sky, heaven’ is best derived from a neuter s-stem *nḗbh-s n. ‘cloud(s)’. Probably there was an early PIE paradigm *nḗbh-s, gen. *nébh-s-s, whose genitive was soon replaced. Here we cannot know the motivation of the lengthened grade but it is likely that it was there. In consideration of this neuter stem *nḗbh-s it may well be that also the much disputed Old Irish word síd ‘fairy mound, peace’ goes back to a lengthened grade neuter s-stem *sḗd-s ‘domicile, seat’. The suffixal e-grade of neuter nouns in *-es/-os stems from the locative of the acrostatic type *nḗbh-s.
Word-final vowel shortenings in the Rigveda and the nominative singular of PIE *eh2- and *ih2-stems
Authors: Litscher Roland
Published: November 2015

The common reconstruction of *eh2- and devī́-type *ih2-stem singular nominatives as *-ah2 (< *-eh2) and *-ih2 includes no overt marking of the nonneuter nominative singular. Instead of taking this for granted and searching for a motivation in the history of those stems, we raise the possibility of a reconstruction with overt marking (*-āh2, *-īh2). In the second part, the distribution of some word-final vowel shortenings in the Rigveda is analysed in order to determine whether they correlate with the different origins of the vowels or not. The distributions prove interesting, and call for further investigation, but since shortening seems possible irrespective of the origin of the vowel, the Vedic evidence cannot help decide between the two possible reconstructions.
Influence of fellow L2 learners on pragmatic development during study abroad
Authors: Hassall Tim
Published: November 2015

This is an initial exploratory study of how study-abroad learners influence each other’s pragmatic development in naturalistic settings. It focuses on a cohort of 12 Australian learners of Indonesian during a short summer course and uses a multimethod approach, including a pretest/posttest instrument, diary entries, and regular interviews. Findings revealed a variety of influences on each other’s development. Learners noticed pragmatic features in talk produced by fellow learners that was addressed to native speakers of the target language. They also sometimes noticed features in talk by native speakers that was addressed to their fellow learners, or in talk between fellow learners. They reflected on the relevant features and often modified their knowledge about them. The learners also talked with each other about the pragmatics of the L2 in various ways, such as through explicit discussion, correction of each other’s performance, or the telling of personal anecdotes. That talk too prompted the learners to reflect on pragmatic features and modify their knowledge about them. The learners also planned complex pragmatic action together and performed it together, which can affect pragmatic development in myriad ways. To sum up, the study changes our perceptions of how learners learn pragmatics during study abroad by showing how time spent with fellow learners can stimulate that learning.
“Can I very please borrow it?”: Request development in young Norwegian EFL learners
Authors: Savić Milica
Published: November 2015

With the introduction of the notion of communicative competence to second-language learning and teaching (
Non-invasive, Complex Examination of Micro- and Macrovascular System of Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus with or Without Vascular Complications
Authors: Gulácsi-Bárdos Petra , Nieszner Éva , Tóth-Zsámboki Emese , Vargová Katarína , Leé Sarolta , Horváth Zsófia , Vámos Máté , Kiss Róbert Gábor , Préda István
Published: November 2015

Objective: We examined the vascular system, from the microvasculature to the aorta, in diabetes mellitus, using non-invasive methods.

Methods: We enrolled patients with type 1 diabetes: 17 patients without complications (DMW) and 19 patients with clinically manifest complications (DMC). Control group was represented by 34 healthy volunteers (C). We examined microvascular function with laser-Doppler flowmetry, using post-occlusive reactive hyperemia test and local heating. Arterial stiffness was studied by arteriograph, determining augmentation index and pulse wave velocity. We measured serum levels of sE-selectin and sICAM-1, markers of endothelial dysfunction.

Results: Microvascular reactivity was significantly reduced in DMC-, and tendentiously in DMW groups. sE-selectin level was significantly higher in DMC group than in controls. Arterial stiffness was the highest in the DMC group and the lowest in the DMW group. Heart rate was significantly higher in both diabetic groups compared to controls. Time to maximum flow during PORH test tended to be the shortest in DMW group.

Conclusions: Our results confirm impairment of the microvascular system in diabetic patients, even in early, uncomplicated stage of the disease, and might demonstrate diffuse hyperkinesis in the vascular system, resulting from the insulin effect or refering to the “vasodilation phase” of diabetes mellitus.
Impact of a Preexisting STEMI Network in Improving STEMI Diagnostic and Treatment in the Community after the Introduction of a National Program of Interventional Treatment in Acute myocardial Infarction
Authors: Orzan Marius , Benedek Theodora , Bajka Balázs , Pál Kinga , Rat Nora , Benedek Imre
Published: November 2015

Introduction: According to European guidelines, ST elevation acute myocardial infarction should be treated by immediate reperfusion, if diagnosed within 12 hours from the onset of symptoms. We aimed to show the impact of a well-functioning pre-existing STEMI network in improving the results of a national program dedicated to the invasive treatment of AMI.

Methods: We followed the comparison between primary PCI rates and STEMI-related mortality in two regions, after the introduction of a nationwide program for the interventional treatment of acute myocardial infarction: region A, where the territory has been appropriately prepared via previous organizational measures in the network, and region B, where the territory has not been previously prepared.

Results: In 2011, one year after the initiation of the national program, a primary PCI rate of 12.1%, a thrombolysis rate of 10.1% and a no-reperfusion treatment rate of 77.8% have been found in these new centers for patients arriving <12 h from symptoms onset. This has been reflected in a mortality of 23.07% for “early presentations” in these new centers in 2011. In comparison, data from the territorial hospitals of the registry (only those without cathlab facilities, similar to the new centers) showed in 2011 a 73.85% primary PCI rate, 12.09% thrombolysis rate and a 14.07% conservative treatment rate, reflected in a mortality of 6.81% for “early presentations” in the registry centers.

Conclusions: The national strategy for reduction of STEMI related mortality via implementation of primary PCI, started in 2010, had a significant impact especially in that region where the territory was previously prepared with appropriate organizational efforts, including educational and logistic measures.
Self-Esteem of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Compared with Hearing Adolescents in Slovenia – The Context of Social and Communication Factors
Authors: Kogovsek Damjana
Published: November 2015

The study focuses on the self-esteem of deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) and hearing adolescents (HA) in Slovenia. The aim of this study is a comparison of self-esteem between D/HH and HA regarding the hearing status, age, gender, and the comparison among D/HH adolescents regarding communication and education settings. It is hypothesized that deaf and hard of hearing adolescents have lower self-esteem than their hearing peers.

The final sample included 130 adolescents who were split into two groups with the method of equal pairs: 65 D/HH adolescents and 65 HA, which were established on the basis of gender, age, nationality, and educational programme of schooling. The phenomenon of self-esteem was measured with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, which was translated and adapted into the Slovenian Sign Language (SSL).

The results show significant differrences in self-esteem between D/HH and HA adolescents. D/HH adolescents have, on average, lower self-esteem than HA. There are differences in self-esteem regarding gender and also regarding ages of 16 and of 20.

D/HH adolescents who use speech or sign language in their communication have higher self-esteem than those who use mostly sign language. D/HH adolescents in mainstream schools have higher self-esteem than those included into a segregated form of schooling.

There are differences among adolescents in how they view themselves. Self-esteem can be a significant predictor of life satisfaction.

D/HH adolescents experience lower self-esteem when compared with HA peers.
Clinical Significance of Immune Imbalance and Autoimmunity in Nervous System Disorders (NSDs)
Authors: Singh Vijendra K.
Published: November 2015

In recent years, the role of immune imbalance and autoimmunity has been experimentally demonstrated in nervous system disorders (NSDs) that include Alzheimer’s disease, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tics and Tourette’s syndrome, schizophrenia, and some other NSDs. And yet, these NSDs are never counted as autoimmune diseases. Deriving from the rapidly expanding knowledge of neuro-immunology and autoimmune diseases, for example multiple sclerosis (MS), the author of this mini-review strongly recommends that these NSDs should be included while tallying the number of autoimmune diseases. This effort will help create an updated global database of all autoimmune diseases as well as it should help treat millions of patients who are suffering from debilitating NSDs for which there is no known cure or treatment currently.