bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant Cutaneous Nerve Loops in the Axilla
Authors: Deshmukh Vishwajit Ravindra , Bhardwaj Harshita , Khan Feroz , Jacob Tony George
Published: June 2017

During routine dissection classes, conducted for first year undergraduate medical students, we encountered a rare anatomical variation in relation to the intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN). The ICBN represents the lateral undivided cutaneous branch of second intercostal nerve. In this case, the ICBN formed nerve loops with branches of the lateral cutaneous branch of the third intercostal nerve. These loops eventually gave branches that probably supplied the floor of the axilla and proximal arm. Nowadays, this ICBN is gaining clinical importance during the axillary lymph node dissections and mammary gland surgeries. Damage to the ICBN, may results in the sensory deficits in patients undergoing surgery. In our case report, ICBN was making aberrant nerve loop along with the branches from the third intercostal nerve. Knowledge regarding the origin, formation and route of ICBN is of clinical significance to axillary surgeons, radiologist and anesthesiologists.
Quantitative analysis of povidone-iodine thin films by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and their physicochemical properties
Authors: Sa Anongtip , Sawatdee Somchai , Phadoongsombut Narubodee , Buatong Wilaiporn , Nakpeng Titpawan , Sritharadol Rutthapol , Srichana Teerapol
Published: June 2017

In this study, povidone-iodine (PVP-I) has been formulated as a topical spray to produce a thin film for the controlled release of I2. By means of experimental design, 27 formulations containing glycerol, ethanol, PEG 400, copovidone and HFA 134a as a propellant were prepared. The pH values of all formulations were in the range of 6-7. The viscosity was within the range of 11.9-85.9 mPa s. The surface tensions were 20.3 to 24.6 mN m-1 and the contact angles were between 19.3 and 38.7°. The assays for the iodine contents were within acceptable range (80-120 %). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed the ionized form of iodine was much higher than the unionized form. The MIC and MBC values of the PVP-I sprays against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were higher than that of commercial PVP-I solution. The cytotoxicity study confirmed that the PVP-I spray had lower toxic effects on keratinocytes and fibroblasts compared to the commercial PVP-I solution. The formulation containing 59 % ethanol, 18 % copovidone and 12 % PEG 400 showed good antibacterial activity.
Effect of γ-ethyl-γ-phenyl-butyrolactone (EFBL), anticonvulsant and hypnotic drug, on mouse brain catecholamine levels
Authors: Rasgado Lourdes A. Vega , Villanueva Iván , Díaz Fernando Vega
Published: June 2017

γ-Ethyl-γ-phenyl-butyrolactone (EFBL) is a structural combination of the anticonvulsant γ-hydroxy-γ-ethyl-γ-phenylbutyramide (HEPB) and the hypnotic γ-butyrolactone (GBL), which inherits both properties. To clarify its mechanism of action, the effects of EFBL, GBL and HEPB on dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) brain levels were investigated. Influences of chlorpromazine, phenelzine and aminooxyacetic acid were also studied. EFBL increased DA in a dose-dependent manner, remaining enhanced by 80 % over a period of 24 h and augmented NA by 54 % one hour after treatment. HEPB increased DA and NA approximately 2-fold after the first hour. GBL raised DA and NA after three and 24 h, resp. EFBL reversed chlorpromazine effects but potentiated those of phenelzine on DA. Amino-oxyacetic modified neither DA nor NA brain levels, not even in the presence of EFBL. The anticonvulsant and hypnotic properties of EFBL are attributed to its effect on presynaptic dopaminergic receptors and its lasting effect on ethyl and phenyl radicals that hinder its degradation. The results support the role of DA and NA in regulating seizure activity in the brain and indicate that EFBL offers a potential treatment for refractory epilepsy without complementary drugs and Parkinson’s disease, without the drawbacks of oral therapies.
Porphyra-334, a mycosporine-like amino acid, attenuates UV-induced apoptosis in HaCaT cells
Authors: Suh Sung-Suk , Oh Se Kyung , Lee Sung Gu , Kim Il-Chan , Kim Sanghee
Published: June 2017

The main aim of the current research was to study the effect of porphyra-334, one of mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), well known as UV-absorbing compounds, on UVinduced apoptosis in human immortalized keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. Due to their UV-screening capacity and ability to prevent UV-induced DNA damage, MAAs have recently attracted considerable attention in both industry and research in pharmacology. Herein, human HaCaT cells were used to determine the biological activities of porphyra- 334 by various in vitro assays, including proliferation, apoptosis and Western blot assays. The proliferation rate of UV-irradiated HaCaT cells was significantly decreased compared to the control group. Pretreatment with porphyra- 334 markedly attenuated the inhibitory effect of UV and induced a dramatic decrease in the apoptotic rate. Expression of active caspase-3 protein was increased in response to UV irradiation, while caspase-3 levels were similar between cells treated with porphyra-334 and the non-irradiated control group. Taken together, our data suggest that porphyra-334 inhibits UV-induced apoptosis in HaCaT cells through attenuation of the caspase pathway.
Biomimetic insulin-imprinted polymer nanoparticles as a potential oral drug delivery system
Authors: Paul Pijush Kumar , Treetong Alongkot , Suedee Roongnapa
Published: June 2017

In this study, we investigate molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), which form a three-dimensional image of the region at and around the active binding sites of pharmaceutically active insulin or are analogous to b cells bound to insulin. This approach was employed to create a welldefined structure within the nanospace cavities that make up functional monomers by cross-linking. The obtained MIPs exhibited a high adsorption capacity for the target insulin, which showed a significantly higher release of insulin in solution at pH 7.4 than at pH 1.2. In vivo studies on diabetic Wistar rats showed that the fast onset within 2 h is similar to subcutaneous injection with a maximum at 4 h, giving an engaged function responsible for the duration of glucose reduction for up to 24 h. These MIPs, prepared as nanosized material, may open a new horizon for oral insulin delivery.
Changes in Salivary Hormones Concentration during the Preparation and Competition Period in Olympic Weightlifters
Authors: Kováč Milan , Laczo Eugen , Vajda Matej , Cihová Iveta , Babková Jaroslava
Published: June 2017

Endogenous hormones are essential for physiological reactions and influence the adaptation to weightlifting training by modulating anabolic and catabolic processes. It seems that testosterone and cortisol are playing a key role in anabolic and catabolic processes in resistance training. Eight elite Czech and Slovak weightlifters volunteered in present study. The testosterone and cortisol were measured in 4 testing sessions over 18 weeks during preparation and competition period. The training protocol consisted of three specific weightlifting exercises. The saliva samples were collected in 4 testing sessions, pre and 5 min, 15 min and 30 min after protocol, respectively. The basal level of salivary testosterone and cortisol remains unchanged during preparation and competition period. Also, acute testosterone response was not observed over the monitored period. However, acute decrease of cortisol were found between pre intervention and post 5 (p ≤ 0.01), 15 (p ≤ 0.01), and 30 min (p ≤ 0.05) during preparation periods. While in competition period was found significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) only 5 min after testing protocol. The testosterone/cortisol ratio significantly increased during preparation periods (p ≤ 0.01), but not in competition period. Results indicated that the routine assessment of testosterone and cortisol may provide an effective way to monitor acute and chronic adaptive response to weightlifting training. Our results suggest that cortisol, not the testosterone is an important component of adaptation during elite weightlifting training.
The Swimming Ability of Children with Asthma
Authors: Benčuriková Ľubomíra , Putala Matúš
Published: June 2017

This paper reports on findings of a pilot research to determine the level of swimming ability of children with weak respiratory system aged between 10 - 11 years, who attended special classes for asthmatics. Swimming ability was assessed by 25 m free style swimming test. The results of asthmatics were compared with healthy peers (Benčuriková 2006; Kováčová 2010; Labudová 2011). The results confirmed that the level of swimming capability of asthmatic children, despite their handicap, is significantly higher than their healthy peers.
Relation between Maximal Anaerobic Power Output and Tests on Rowing Ergometer
Authors: Šmída Matej , Clementis Michal , Hamar Dušan , Macejková Yvetta
Published: June 2017

Aim of this study was to compare relation between maximal anaerobic power output and 2,000 m test on rowing ergometer and relation between 6,000 m test and 2,000 m on rowing ergometer. It can be assumed that 2,000 m performance on rowing ergometer will significantly correlate with maximal anaerobic power output and 6,000 m performance. A group of 9 welltrained rowers (age: 18.3 years ± 2.8 years, sport age: 4.9 years ± 3.7 years, weight: 78.9 kg ± 12.2 kg, height: 182.3 cm ± 7.6 cm) performed three tests in 1 week to determine maximal anaerobic power, 6,000 m and 2,000 m performance on Concept 2 model D rowing ergometer. A value of simple maximal stroke out of 10-second all-out test with drag factor set to 200 was taken as a measure of maximal anaerobic power. Drag factor for 6,000 m and 2,000 m test was set individually. Average power during these tests was record. Research showed that both maximal anaerobic power and 6,000 m test correlated with 2,000 m test on rowing ergometer significantly (rmap= 0.93 p < 0.01, r6k= 0.95 p < 0.01). Maximal anaerobic power and 6,000 m tests seem to be good predictors for 2,000 m score on rowing ergometer. However, maximal anaerobic power test can be used to monitor rowing performance during specific training cycle instead of longer and more demanding 6,000 m test.
Varietal Distributions of Stilbenes in Grape Cane of Vitis vinifera L.
Authors: Soural Ivo , Balík Josef , Vrchotová Naděžda , Tříska Jan
Published: June 2017

Grape cane is a waste product from viticulture, which can be used as a source of stilbenes, such as resveratrol and viniferins with high antioxidant values. These stilbenes have also important healthy effects for humans. Resveratrol and viniferins are known as phytoalexins since 1977. Biomass of grape canes in annual pruning is a very valuable source of stilbenes, e.g. trans-resveratrol, and trans-ε-viniferin in dry grape canes. The main goal of this article was to compare the distribution of resveratrol and viniferins in the grape cane varieties of Laurot, Hibernal, Malverina and Chardonnay. The highest content of trans-resveratrol was found in Hibernal (6,111 mg kg−1); for trans-ε-viniferin and r2-vinifein, the highest levels were found in Malverina (2,211 and 654 mg kg−1). These compounds can be obtained from this waste product (grape cane), by easy extraction process in winemaking or food-processing industry.
Spatial Analysis of the Biodegradable Municipal Waste Production and Disposal
Authors: Báreková Anna , Lackóová Lenka , Stejskal Bohdan
Published: June 2017

Separate collection of biodegradable municipal waste (BMW) is the main precondition to decrease the environmental pollution by landfill gas as well as to enrich soil by the humus substances from municipal compost. However, the obligation to ensure the separation and treatment of the BMW increases the municipalities' costs for waste management. Rural areas differ from the urban ones not only by typical lifestyle, settlement character, but also by total BMW production. The urban areas do have easier access to public finances, therefore, most of them already dispose sufficient infrastructure for BMW gathering and treatment. The aim of our research was to analyze the spatial production and disposal of the biodegradable municipal waste and propose, in regard to legislation, efficient BMW treatment for rural areas of the Nitra region. The analysis revealed that only 23% of the examined municipalities dispose through composting. However, 92% of them have the estimated annual BMW production from public green areas not exceeding 100t. Organic waste processing could be managed by municipalities through “small composting” which does not require the approval by the state body in waste management.
Validation of Hydrus 1D Model in Selected Catchment of Slovakia
Authors: Tárník Andrej , Igaz Dušan
Published: June 2017

Soil water content is very important for agricultural practice. Direct measurements of the soil moisture are being replaced by mathematical simulations and models step by step. One of the most used models for the simulation of the soil moisture is HYDRUS 1D model. This paper deals with HYDRUS 1D validity check in the Nitra River Catchment. Three different localities in the Nitra River Catchment (Malanta, Kolíňany and Dolné Naštice) were chosen for model validity check. Both, measurements and modelling of soil moisture, were made for these localities in three years (8/2011 - 8/2014). The evaluation of model validity was performed by calculation of the correlation coefficient and count of comparisons with variance of 15%. The correlation coefficients of measured and simulated data were between 0.67 and 0.95. Data comparisons with variance of 15% among measured and simulated data were between 79 to 100%. Based on these results we can declare that HYDRUS 1D model is valid for the conditions of Slovak catchments.
Feed Intake and Live Weight Gain of Hereford Bulls Offered Diets Based on Whole-Crop Barley and Whole-Crop Wheat Silages Relative to Moderately Digestible Grass Silage with or without Protein Supplementation
Authors: Huuskonen Arto , Pesonen Maiju , Joki-Tokola Erkki
Published: June 2017

The present experiment was conducted to study the performance of Hereford bulls offered diets based on whole-crop barley (WCB) and whole-crop wheat (WCW) silages relative to a moderately digestible grass silage (GS)-based diet with or without rapeseed meal (RSM) supplementation. The experiment comprised 30 bulls and a 3×2 factorial design was used. The bulls were offered silagesad libitum. In all forage diets (WCB, WCW, GS) the concentrate used was either rolled barley alone or rolled barley plus RSM. The amount of the concentrate supplementation was 37 g/metabolic live weight/animal/day for all treatments. The crude protein (CP) content of barley was 126 g/kg dry matter (DM) and the CP content of the concentrate increased 23% with RSM supplementation. Average live weight gains (LWG) for the GS, WCB and WCW feedings were 1411, 1331 and 1181 g/d, respectively. Differences in diet digestibility and energy intake probably explain the differences in LWG among the forage types. RSM supplementation increased both silage and total DM intake in the WCB and WCW feedings but not in the GS feeding. Furthermore, RSM supplementation increased LWG 7 and 17% in the WCB and WCW feedings, respectively, but only 2% in the GS feeding.
GMRES Convergence Bounds for Eigenvalue Problems
Authors: Freitag Melina A. , Kürschner Patrick , Pestana Jennifer
Published: June 2017

The convergence of GMRES for solving linear systems can be influenced heavily by the structure of the right-hand side. Within the solution of eigenvalue problems via inverse iteration or subspace iteration, the right-hand side is generally related to an approximate invariant subspace of the linear system. We give detailed and new bounds on (block) GMRES that take the special behavior of the right-hand side into account and explain the initial sharp decrease of the GMRES residual. The bounds motivate the use of specific preconditioners for these eigenvalue problems, e.g., tuned and polynomial preconditioners, as we describe. The numerical results show that the new (block) GMRES bounds are much sharper than conventional bounds and that preconditioned subspace iteration with either a tuned or polynomial preconditioner should be used in practice.
Geoinformational prognostic model of mudflows hazard and mudflows risk for the territory of Ukrainian Carpathians
Authors: Chepurna Tetiana B. , Kuzmenko Eduard D. , Chepurnyj Igor V.
Published: June 2017

The article is devoted to the geological issue of the space-time regional prognostication of mudflow hazard. The methodology of space-time prediction of mudflows hazard by creating GIS predictive model has been developed. Using GIS technologies the relevant and representative complex of significant influence of spatial and temporal factors, adjusted to use in the regional prediction of mudflows hazard, were selected. Geological, geomorphological, technological, climatic, and landscape factors have been selected as spatial mudflow factors. Spatial analysis is based on detection of a regular connection of spatial factor characteristics with spatial distribution of the mudflow sites. The function of a standard complex spatial index (SCSI) of the probability of the mudflow sites distribution has been calculated. The temporal, long-term prediction of the mudflows activity was based on the hypothesis of the regular reiteration of natural processes. Heliophysical, seismic, meteorological, and hydrogeological factors have been selected as time mudflow factors. The function of a complex index of long standing mudflow activity (CIMA) has been calculated. The prognostic geoinformational model of mudflow hazard up to 2020 year, a year of the next peak of the mudflows activity, has been created. Mudflow risks have been counted and carogram of mudflow risk assessment within the limits of administrative-territorial units has been built for 2020 year.
Tablet Nuff but Life Still Rough: Technology for Early Childhood Sustainable Development in Jamaica
Authors: Kelly-Williams Suzette , Berson Ilene R. , Berson Michael J.
Published: June 2017

Early childhood education has a role to play in constructing a sustainable society. In particular, increasing global attention has focused on how early childhood may help alleviate poverty among children and their families and promote economic growth. Part of this discourse involves the use of technology as a means to improve the quality of early childhood education and optimize the potential for information and communication technology (ICT) to serve as an agent of development. Jamaica’s appropriation of technology as part of the early childhood development agenda has emulated Western notions of success. However, the introduction of technology innovations has cultural implications. This study describes and explains perceptions, beliefs and practices about technology among four early childhood teachers in a Jamaican infant school. The findings consider issues for capacity building, including teacher professional development in Jamaica.
Exploring the Role of Future Perspective in Predicting Turkish University Students’ Beliefs About Global Climate Change
Authors: Ateş Deniz , Teksöz Gaye , Ertepınar Hamide
Published: June 2017

Recent studies indicate that limited understanding about causes and its potential impacts of climate change and fault beliefs by people across different countries of the world including Turkey is a real challenge. Acceptance of climate change as a real threat, believing its existence, and knowing causes and consequences are very significant for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Therefore, exploring underlying factors shaping or affecting beliefs of people is needed for designing educational interventions for a change in individuals’ attitudes and behaviours. The main purpose of the present study was to explore how and to what extent future time perspective, perceived knowledge about global climate change, and environmental attitudes explain the university students’ beliefs about occurrence, causes and consequences of GCC. A quantitative research was conducted with the participation of one thousand, five hundred and eighty undergraduate students (n=1580) of METU and the data was gathered through Future Perspective Related Beliefs about Global Climate Change Scale. The study findings suggested that ecocentric attitude and perceived knowledge are mainly two influential factors for the undergraduate students’ beliefs about global climate change. Future time perspective’s contribution although low, was found to be significant in beliefs about GCC. The results of this study would shed light to evaluate and improve educational programs and curriculum in higher education, and can be a guide because Turkish literature does not serve any research that seek students’ future time perspective related to global climate change.
Ecology Approach in Education and Health Care
Authors: Bogdanova Rūta , Šiliņa Maruta , Renigere Ruta
Published: June 2017

In the 21st century, numerous complex challenges in education and health care have come to the fore, among them: 1) how to implement the ecological approach in the education process and health care practice; 2) how to implement study programmes in line with the education trends forsustainable developmentand the process of formation and development of the ecological competence.

The results of this research refer only to the content analysis of the essays written by the first and second year students of the programs in Nursing and Medicine on completing the study courseThe Ecological Approach in Patient Care. To increase the credibility and validity of the obtained results of the content analysis, the triangulation method has been applied to include quantitative and qualitative data. The research has looked into the concept of ecology, its application and importance in developing the ecological consciousness of students during their transformation from I-Ego to I-Eco in the process of developing their ecological competence (Salīte, 1998).
Media and Environmental Non-Governmental Organizations (ENGOs) Roles in Environmental Sustainability Communication in Malaysia
Authors: Saleh Mohamad , Saifudin Mohamad
Published: June 2017

Considering the massive environmental problems occurring in Malaysia, the media and the ENGOs are said to play pivotal roles in delivering environmental information to the mass society in order to increase their awareness, knowledge and practices towards the environment and sustainability. This study sought to shed the light on the type of roles can be played by the Malaysian media and the ENGOs in environmental sustainability communication. For the purpose of this study, 24 interviewees encompassing 13 media interviewees from two media organizations, namely Utusan Malaysia and The Star, as well as 11 ENGOs interviewees from two ENGOs organizations, WWF and MNS. The result of this study indicated that although both media and ENGOs seem to have different organizational backgrounds, particularly the media is a profitable organization whilst ENGOs are more non-profit oriented, when it comes to environmental communication, most of them agreed that they share quite similar roles particularly in informing and educating the public about environmental issues and in conducting research on environment and sustainability matters.
Effect of daminozide and flurprimidol on growth, flowering and bulb yield of Eucomis autumnalis (Mill.) Chitt.
Authors: Salachna Piotr , Zawadzińska Agnieszka
Published: June 2017

Eucomis autumnalis (Mill.) Chitt., commonly known as pineapple lily, is a new ornamental pot plant with great marketing potential. This work evaluated the effects of two gibberellin synthesis inhibitors (daminozide and flurprimidol) applied as commercial plant growth regulators (PGRs) B-Nine and Topflor on the growth, flowering, and bulb yield in E. autumnalis. The PGRs were applied three times as substrate drenches or foliar sprays at the concentration of 15 mg dm-3 (flurprimidol) or 4250 mg dm-3 (daminozide). Plant growth was restricted only by flurprimidol, particularly when it was applied as substrate drenches. Plant height was reduced by 48% at anthesis and by 38% at flower senescence, compared to the untreated control. Regardless of the application method, flurprimidol increased the leaf greenness index (SPAD) and bulb weight. Daminozide treatments were ineffective in controlling plant height and negatively influenced bulb weight. Foliar sprays of daminozide increased the length of inflorescences and the number of flowers per inflorescence.
Secondary antibody deficiency and immunoglobulin replacement
Authors: Li Philip H. , Lau Chak-Sing
Published: June 2017

Antibody deficiencies can be either primary or secondary, leading to significant morbidity and mortality without appropriate management. Secondary antibody deficiency can be due to various diseases or iatrogenic causes, especially with the use of immunosuppressive agents such as B-cell depleting therapies. Unlike its primary counterpart, little is known regarding the management of secondary antibody deficiency and it remains an underappreciated entity. This is a growing concern with the growing numbers of patients on various immunosuppressant therapies and increasing survivors of autoimmune diseases and haematological malignancies. In this report, we review the diagnosis and management of secondary antibody deficiency, especially after rituximab-induced hypogammaglobulinemia.
Zum Vorschlag der EU-Kommission für eine neue Urheberrechtsrichtlinie
Authors: Kuhlen Rainer
Published: June 2017

Die Europäische Kommission hat mit Datum 14. September 2016 einen (derzeit stark kontrovers diskutierten) Vorschlag für eine neue Urheberrechtsrichtlinie „On Copyright in the Digital Single Market“ (COM(2016) 593 final) vorgelegt. Dies ist keine Ersetzung der bestehenden Richtlinien, insbesondere nicht der alten InfoSoc-Richtlinie von 2001. Vielmehr wird eine Vielzahl neuer Schrankenregelungen vorgeschlagen (z. B. für grenzüberschreitende Ausbildung, TDM, Gedächtnisorganisationen, Bibliotheken, Leistungsschutzrecht für Presseverleger) die jetzt weitgehend obligatorisch für eine Umsetzung in das jeweils nationale Recht der Mitgliedsländer sein sollen. In diesem Beitrag steht die Frage im Zentrum, inwieweit der jetzige Vorschlag allgemein zu einer Verbesserung der Nutzungssituation für Wissen und Information in Bildung und Wissenschaft führen kann.
Opening Scholarly Communication in Social Sciences by Connecting Collaborative Authoring to Peer Review
Authors: Sadeghi Afshin , Wilm Johannes , Mayr Philipp , Lange Christoph
Published: June 2017

The objective of the OSCOSS research project on “Opening Scholarly Communication in the Social Sciences” is to build a coherent collaboration environment that facilitates scholarly communication workflows of social scientists in the roles of authors, reviewers, editors and readers. This paper presents the implementation of the core of this environment: the integration of the Fidus Writer academic word processor with the Open Journal Systems (OJS) submission and review management system.
Homeostatic Agent for General Environment
Authors: Yoshida Naoto
Published: June 2017

One of the essential aspect in biological agents is dynamic stability. This aspect, called homeostasis, is widely discussed in ethology, neuroscience and during the early stages of artificial intelligence. Ashby’s homeostats are general-purpose learning machines for stabilizing essential variables of the agent in the face of general environments. However, despite their generality, the original homeostats couldn’t be scaled because they searched their parameters randomly. In this paper, first we re-define the objective of homeostats as the maximization of a multi-step survival probability from the view point of sequential decision theory and probabilistic theory. Then we show that this optimization problem can be treated by using reinforcement learning algorithms with special agent architectures and theoretically-derived intrinsic reward functions. Finally we empirically demonstrate that agents with our architecture automatically learn to survive in a given environment, including environments with visual stimuli. Our survival agents can learn to eat food, avoid poison and stabilize essential variables through theoretically-derived single intrinsic reward formulations.
The first record of a potential pest Orientus ishidae (Matsumura, 1902) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Poland
Authors: Klejdysz Tomasz , Zwolińska Agnieszka , Walczak Marcin , Kobiałka Michał
Published: June 2017

This study provides the first data on the occurrence of the mosaic leafhopper Orientus ishidae (Matsumura, 1902) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Poland. This species is native to Southeast Asia, adventive in Europe and feeds on cultivated plants. Orientus ishidae is a well-known carrier of Grapevine flavescence doree phytoplasma which causes the grapevine yellows disease. Symptoms of phytoplasma diseases of grapevine include deformations, leaf chlorosis and withering of plants. The appearance of this species in Poland might be caused by observed climate variations and insufficient plant health controls in the international trade of plants.
A strategy of chemical control of Apera spica-venti L. resistant to sulfonylureas traced on the molecular level
Authors: Stankiewicz-Kosyl Marta , Wrochna Mariola , Salas Maria , Gawronski Stanislaw Waldemar
Published: June 2017

Three populations of silky bent grass (Apera spica-venti L.) were tested – one that is susceptible and two that are resistant to sulfonylureas. This study assessed the efficacy of control by different herbicides in a pot experiment and estimated the molecular status of resistance to sulfonylureas in analysed populations and its effect on the efficacy of different chemical treatments. The three most effective herbicide rotation schemes were: 1) chlorsulfuron + isoproturon, ethametsulfuron + metazachlor + quinmerac, chlorsulfuron + isoproturon; 2) prosulfocarb + diflufenican, ethametsulfuron + quizalofop-p-ethyl, prosulfocarb + diflufenican; 3) diflufenican + flufenacet, quizalofop-p-ethyl, diflufenican + flufenacet. In most cases it was more difficult to destroy 100% of the resistant population from Modgarby where the majority of plants had no mutation in the als gene. In the resistant population from Babin there were significantly more individuals with mutation in the als gene, therefore exhibiting target-site resistance.
Pode Sustentar-se o Argumento de Que Exista uma Dialéctica Quântica da Natureza?
Authors: Machado Lino
Published: June 2017

Autores como os físicos Léon Rosenfeld, Gerald Holton e Franco Selleri, bem como o filósofo Miguel Reale perceberam já que, no interior da mecânica quântica, o princípio da complementaridade de Niels Bohr pode ser aproximado á noção filosófica de dialéctica (numa perspectiva não hegeliana, entretanto). Além de buscar contribuir para robustecer tal linha de interpretaoção do famoso principío bohriano, neste paper tentaremos compreender dialecticamente a relaoção de Louis de Broglie e a de desigualdade de Werner Heisenberg. Por fim, argumentaremos a favor de um enfoque realista do principío em causa.
Monitoring health inequalities at the municipal level: Lithuanian experience
Authors: Kaseliene Snieguole , Mesceriakova-Veliuliene Olga , Vladickiene Jurgita , Kalediene Ramune , Seseikaite Neringa , Stankunas Mindaugas
Published: June 2017

This study aimed to assess the attitudes of Lithuanian public health professionals towards health inequality monitoring in municipalities.

The survey was conducted in public health bureaus (PHBs) and administrations of municipalities in March 2015. All employees of PHBs, all municipal doctors and all employees of health departments were invited to participate in the study (N=318; response rate, 47.2%).

The study participants had positive attitudes towards the importance of health inequality monitoring at the municipal level, meanwhile systematic health inequality monitoring was assessed moderately. The majority of the interviewed professionals working at PHBs and municipalities (91.4% and 88.2%, respectively) declared that health indicators were monitored and analysed in their institutions. The respondents acknowledged the importance of routine monitoring of health indicators for assessment of inequalities, but these indicators were not monitored systematically in every municipality and PHB. Public health professionals identified the following measures for better health inequality monitoring: to strengthen intersectoral collaboration, formulate specific objectives of health programmes, promote actions in reducing health inequalities.

Conclusions

Public health professionals working at the municipal level outlined the importance of monitoring and reducing health inequalities. However, health inequality monitoring at the municipal level was considered as insufficient.
Role of Epstein-Barr virus in the development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wang Jing , Yu Dan , Liu Yan , Xue Kai , Zhao Xue
Published: June 2017

Southern China experiences larger extent of total cancer pathologies, of which nasopharyngeal carcinoma has the highest incidence under otorhinolaryngeal malignant carcinomas. Risk factor of nasopharyngeal carcinoma varies from hereditary causes to virus infection, among which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is the mostly investigated. The study into mechanism of EBV in occurrence, development and prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma has been studied for several decades. The pathophysiology in making of EBV into a cancerogen includes proteins as latent membrane protein 1 (LMPs) and nucleic acids as micro-RNAs. In this paper, we reviewed till date studies focusing on relationship between EBV and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
A note on residuated po-groupoids and lattices with antitone involutions
Authors: Chajda Ivan , Kühr Jan
Published: June 2017

Following [BOTUR, M.—CHAJDA, I.—HALAŠ, R.: Are basic algebras residuated structures?, Soft Comput. 14 (2010), 251—255] we discuss the connections between left-residuated partially ordered groupoids and the so-called basic algebras, which are a non-commutative and non-associative generalization of MV-algebras and orthomodular lattices.
On O’Malley ϱ-upper continuous functions
Authors: Kowalczyk Stanisław , Nowakowska Katarzyna
Published: June 2017

In the paper we present some properties of functions which are ϱ-upper continuous in O’Malley’s sense. Connections with the standard ϱ-upper continuous functions are studied and the maximal additive class and the maximal multiplicative class for this family of functions are described.
Some results on differential-difference analogues of Brück conjecture
Authors: Dong Xianjing , Liu Kai
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we will consider value sharing problems on a transcendental entire function f with its differential-difference polynomials. We establish some results that can be viewed as the differential-difference analogues of Brück conjecture.
Oscillation of neutral second order half-linear differential equations without commutativity in deviating arguments
Authors: Fišnarová Simona , Mařík Robert
Published: June 2017

In this paper we derive oscillation criteria for the second order half-linear neutral differential equation

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x
(
τ
(
t
)
)
,

$$ \displaystyle \Bigl[r(t)\Phi(z'(t))\Bigr]'+c(t)\Phi(x(\sigma(t)))=0, \quad z(t)=x(t)+b(t)x(\tau(t)), $$

where Φ(t) = |t|
p−2
t, p ≥ 2, is a power type nonlinearity. We improve recent results published in the literature by obtaining better oscillation constants and removing the usual condition σ(τ(t)) = τ(σ(t)). Two methods (comparison method and Riccati equation method) are used.
On support, separation and decomposition theorems fort-Wright-concave functions
Authors: Olbryś Andrzej
Published: June 2017

In the present paper we prove a separation theorem fort-Wright convex andt-Wright concave functionals. We also consider the problem of supporting thet-Wright concave functions byt-Wright affine ones. As a consequence of these results we prove some decomposition theorems fort-Wright convex functions.
Characterization of congruence lattices of principal p-algebras
Authors: El-Mohsen Badawy Abd
Published: June 2017

A characterization of the congruence lattice of a principal p-algebra satisfying a certain condition in terms of congruence pairs is given.
Prague Spring in the Drawings of Karel Otáhal
Authors: Paulová Eva
Published: June 2017

This study reports on interesting holdings in the musical iconography collection of the Czech Museum of Music. Drawings by the sculptor Karel Otáhal (1901–1972) that are related to music and musicians were created for the most part at concerts of the Prague Spring festival between 1946 and 1969. He had already begun making portraits of musicians by the end of his studies, when he created a sculpture of Jan Kubelík. His works are a specific expression of portrait realism and of the ability to capture the typical movement and characteristics of the person depicted. He met in person with musicians, and his drawings bear valuable dedications and commemorative musical quotations by important figures of Czech and foreign music. Unlike the other creators of such drawings, he was merely an enthusiastic observer, but not a caricaturist. Otáhal’s drawings serve as a unique source on the history and dramaturgy of the Prague Spring festival, including its politicization in the 1950s.
Oligosaccharide ligand tuning in design of third generation carbohydrate pneumococcal vaccines
Authors: Tsvetkov Yury E. , Gening Marina L. , Kurbatova Ekaterina A. , Akhmatova Nelly K. , Nifantiev Nikolay E.
Published: June 2017

Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause many types of dangerous infectious diseases such as otitis media, pneumonia, meningitis and others that are more common in the very young and very old age. Available to date commercial vaccines based on capsular polysaccharides of S. pneumoniae of clinically important strains (first generation carbohydrate vaccines) and conjugated vaccines based on these polysaccharides (second generation carbohydrate vaccines) have certain limitations in protective efficiency. However, the efficiency of vaccines can be increased by the use of third generation vaccines based on synthetic oligosaccharide ligands representing in their structures the protective epitopes of capsular polysaccharides. The proper choice of an optimal oligosaccharide ligand is the most important step in the design of third generation carbohydrate vaccines. Herein we overview our works on the synthesis of three oligosaccharides corresponding to one, “one and a half” and two repeating units of S. pneumoniae type 14 capsular polysaccharide, immunogenic conjugates thereof and comparative immunological study of their conjugates with bovine serum albumin, which was used as a model protein carrier. The ability of obtained products to raise antibodies specific to capsular polysaccharide and homologous oligosaccharides, the induction of phagocytosis by immune antisera and active protection of immunized animals from S. pneumoniae type 14 infection were evaluated. On the basis of the results obtained tetrasaccharide comprising the repeating unit of S. pneumoniae type 14 capsular polysaccharide is an optimal carbohydrate ligand to be used as a part of the third generation carbohydrate pneumococcal vaccine.
The Paradigm of Unity in the Science and Culture
Authors: Grochmal Stanislaw
Published: June 2017

The paradigm of unity is a response to the contemporary needs of society; it shows a new way of looking at social and cultural processes, in positive and creative aspects, giving the hope to solve many problems of the modern world. It constitutes a methodological basis for building both the theoretical models and application schemas, also reveals the directions of the empirical research (Biela, 1996).

The paper presents the importance of the paradigm of unity for science and modern culture, particularly in relation to the social sciences, its characteristics and applications in several disciplines, as well as a chance to emerge from the current crisis of civilization based on this paradigm.
An Interpretative Concept for Social Sciences: Agapic Love as a Framework for Poverty
Authors: Cataldi Silvia , Gallelli Andrea , Iorio Gennaro
Published: June 2017

Why sometimes people use their own resources to help unknown others? What drives an entrepreneur to adopt expensive socially responsible behaviours? What prompts a public employee to spend time with a customer outside the working hours?

In every-day life there many social phenomena based on un-conditionality, disinterestedness, over abound. Such phenomena remain outside the field of explanation of approaches such as rational choice theory or neo-utilitarianism, being described as paradoxes of social action. But also solidarity or gift theories do not provide sufficient explanation for phenomena in which group identity or social ties are not the main motivations of action.

Drawing from critical theories, we propose to (re)introduce the sociological concept of agape-love as a theoretical frame for those social mechanisms that elude reification, quantifiability, instrumental thinking. Agape-love, as formerly introduced by Luc Boltanski (1990), is focused on the present, avoiding any consequence calculation, refuses comparison and equivalence, does not involve reciprocity. According to Boltanski, agape must remain unaware for social agents, as any intentionality would lead action away from pure disinterestedness. We propose to reconceptualise agape, integrating it with theoretical insights by different social scientists (such as Honneth and Sorokin), with new reflexive and institutional accounts, and provide it with empirical foundation (Iorio, 2014).

We present the case of “suspended goods” and read it with the look of agape. It is a relatively recent practice widespread in various fields (examples are suspended groceries, suspended books, suspended holidays) that consists in purchasing goods or services, which will be actually consumed by others who cannot afford them.

This is a case of informal or popular welfare for needy people. Starting from this case study the authors will reflect on poverty, wondering if it is possible an action of aid toward poor which is not based on labelling and submission (Simmel 1908/1965).

We argue that agape is a powerful concept, capable of linking micro and macro levels, useful both to enlighten agents’ motivations in apparent nonrational (choice) situations, but also to describe the aggregate effects of collective behaviours that produce alternative economic regimes or welfare systems.
Becoming a Person of Dialogue
Authors: Williams Stacy A. S. , O’Donnell Nancy
Published: June 2017

It is imperative that Social Sciences examine in depth the underlying issues in human relations that have contributed to divisions among persons, within families, institutions, between nations and religions. If we accept that dialogue is the main currency of statecraft, diplomacy, negotiation, mediation and peacebuilding (Rieker and Turn 2015), then we need to ask ourselves, what are the characteristics of a person capable of engaging in dialogue? Are they characteristics that can be taught? Are they characteristics that make us human?

In his book “Relational Being” Gergen (2009) warns of the dire consequences we face if we continue on the pathway of “rugged individualism”. He explains how our relationships have become instruments for our own satisfaction. From Freud to Skinner, psychology has described human relationships as being primarily about seeking the greatest pleasure from others. But, the so-called “freedom” that we achieve gives us a satisfaction that is transitory at best. “Freedom contains an emptiness that only relationship can fill” (Gergen, 2009, p. 20). It is essential that we find the path to discovering the true meaning of relationship and more importantly cross-racial/ethnic relationships.

Jean Baker Miller described what she termed “growth-fostering relationships” (Miller, 1986), and Chodorow (2001) has developed a theory regarding development suggesting that women develop along a relational pathway whereas men follow the developmental phases that move them toward autonomy. These theorists, and others, view the relational trait to be particularly characteristic of women. A more comprehensive understanding of the nature of the human person can be attained only by taking into consideration both autonomy and relational ability as equally important.

Capacity for dialogue, therefore, is an important contribution that women bring to the world stage. Women from traditionally marginalized groups offer an essential and unique perspective to this topic due to their understanding of the role of power in the dynamics of relationships. To foster cross-cultural dialogue it is important to examine the power dynamics of what it means to be honest, empathetic and collaborative across cultures.

In this discussion, the authors draw upon the fields of technology, child development, feminism, and the social justice literature in an attempt to articulate the benefits of dialogue. It is far from exhaustive and provides a cursory purview of this challenging topic. It is an example of how integration among different theories can help move our literature forward in understanding a challenging topic as dialogue. It also offers a perspective on how men and women can grow in their relationship building ability, and therefore ability to dialogue, by embracing characteristics like being vulnerable, cooperative, selfless, and nurturing, relating this to the teachings of Chiara Lubich.
Static Balance of Visually Impaired Athletes in Open and Closed Skill Sports
Authors: Bednarczuk Grzegorz , Wiszomirska Ida , Marszałek Jolanta , Rutkowska Izabela , Skowroński Waldemar
Published: June 2017

Introduction. In elite sport, athletes are required to maintain appropriate body posture control despite a number of destabilising factors. The functions of body posture control are monitored by the central nervous system that constantly receives information from the vestibular and somatosensory systems as well as from the visual analyser. Visual impairment may contribute to a decrease in the level of motor abilities and skills; however, it does not prevent visually impaired individuals from taking up physical activity. Therefore, this study sought to assess the static balance of visually impaired goalball players and shooters. Material and methods. The study included 37 goalball players and 20 shooters. A force platform was used to assess static balance. The study participants performed tests: standing on both feet with eyes open (BFEO) and closed (BFEC) (30 s), single left- and right-leg stance with eyes open (SLEO and SREO) as well as single left- and right-leg stance with eyes closed (SLEC and SREC). Statistical analyses were carried out using the following parameters: centre of pressure (CoP) path length [cm], CoP velocity [m/s], and the surface area of the stabilogram [cm2]. Results. No significant differences were found between goalball players and shooters in static balance levels. However, such differences were observed after taking into account the number of athletes who were capable of performing particular tests. Conclusions. The findings indirectly confirm that there is a correlation between the type of physical activity and balance levels in visually impaired individuals. Further research ought to include tests performed on an unstable surface.