bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis Of Parameters Of Intraoperative And Postoperative Pain In Bitches Undergoing Laparoscopic Or Conventional Ovariectomy
Authors: Vasiljević Maja , Ristanović Dragan , Jovanović Milan , Davitkov Darko , Bošnjak Ivan , Krstić Vanja , Stanimirović Zoran
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the parameters of intraoperative and postoperative pain in bitches undergoing laparoscopic or conventional ovariectomy. The study was conducted on 20 healthy, adult bitches of medium and large breeds. All the bitches were subjected to the same anesthetic protocol. Carprofen was applied preoperatively, and general anaesthesia was carried out with a combination of medetomidine, propofol and sevoflurane. The bitches were divided into two groups of 10 individuals each. The first group underwent conventional ovariectomy while the second one was subjected to the laparoscopic procedure. The intensity of intraoperative pain was estimated at different time points by measuring changes in heart and respiratory rate, arterial blood pressure, and body temperature. A multifactor pain scale was used to assess the intensity of postoperative pain. Dogs in the group which was scheduled for conventional ovariectomy (COV group) responded to painful intra-operative stimuli with increased heart rate and respiratory rate. Arterial blood pressure and body temperature decrease was detected in COV group. Laparoscopic ovariectomy induced less intra- and postoperative pain when compared to conventional ovariectomy. Beside that, the total anaesthesia time and postoperative recovery were shorter in dogs that underwent laparascopic ovariectomy.
The Structure Of Bursa Of Fabricius In The Long-Legged Buzzard (Buteo Rufinus): Histological And Histochemical Study
Authors: Karadag Sari Ebru , Altunay Hikmet , Kurtdede Nevin , Bakir Buket
Published: February 2016

The bursa of Fabricius (BF) is a lymphoepithelial organ found only in birds. Differences in morphology of BF could play an important role in immune response. The objective of this study was to investigate the histological and histochemical characteristics of the bursa of Fabricius in the long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus). The material for the study comprised bursa samples obtained from three long-legged buzzards with permission of the General Directorate of Nature Protection and National Parks (Ankara, Turkey). Briefly, interfollicular epithelium (IFE) was shown to be columnar in shape and not to contain goblet cells. Reticular fibers were located in interfollicular septae. Each lymphoid follicle in the bursa of Fabricius in the long-legged buzzard was remarkably linked to the follicle associated epithelium (FAE). Namely, FAE has been reported to stimulate antibody production by transferring antigens to the medulla and have a leading role in developing of local immune response. Among the others, the species-specific differences in bursa of Fabricius morphology of long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) also might support the continuity of this species in nature.
Detection Of Equine Arteritis Virus In The Semen Of Stallions In The Republic Of Serbia
Authors: Lazić Sava , Lupulović Diana , Polaček Vladimir , Valčić Miroslav , Lazić Gospava , Pašagić Enisa , Petrović Tamaš
Published: February 2016

The results on serological testing of blood sera from stallions and mares used for breeding and the presence of the viral genome of Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) in stallion semen are presented. The blood and semen samples were taken from a horse stable on the territory of the Republic of Serbia during 2012, 2013 and 2014. Detection of anti-EAV specific antibodies in blood sera was performed by the virus neutralization test (VNT), and identification of EAV genome RNA in stallion semen was done by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In 2012, high seroprevalence of EAV was detected in the investigated stable. In total, 45% and 65 % of stallions and mares reacted positive, respectively, and the antibody titre values ranged between 2 and 10 log2. High seroprevalence was confirmed in the same animals again in 2013. Out of two stallions tested semen samples in 2013, the viral genome was detected by RT-PCR in 3 examined semen samples from a seropositive stallion, while EAV was not detected in 3 semen samples of a seronegative stallion. During 2014, 11 semen samples were collected from two seropositive stallions. Again, the presence of EAV was confirmed by RT-PCR in all 8 semen samples originating from the same stallion with the EAV genome positive semen result in 2013, whereas the virus was not detected in semen samples originating from the second anti-EAV antibody positive stallion. The presence of EAV-specific antibodies was confirmed in the blood sera of the mares inseminated with the semen of seropositive stallions in 2012 and 2013.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Periapical Lesions Upregulate the Production of Immunoregulatory Cytokines by Inflammatory Cells in Culture / Mezenhimske matične ćelije iz periapeksnih lezija stimulišu produkciju imunoregulacijskih citokina od strane inflamacijskih ćelija u kulturi
Authors: Marković Milan , Tomić Sergej , Djokić Jelena , Čolić Miodrag
Published: February 2016

The pathophysiology of periapical lesions (PLs) is under control of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory (mainly immunoregulatory) cytokines. We have recently established mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from PLs and showed their suppressive effects on the production of proinflammatory cytokines from PLs inflammatory cells (ICs). In this work we studied the production of interleukin (IL)-10, IL-27 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, by PL-ICs in direct or indirect contacts with PL-MSCs. PL-ICs, which were isolated from four different asymptomatic PLs, predominantly composed of lymphocytes, followed by neutrophil granulocytes, macrophages and plasma cells. PLMSCs, expressing typical MSC markers, were co-cultivated with PL-ICs at 1:10 ratio, either in direct contact or in a transwell-system, for 24 hours. The levels of cytokines in cell-culture supernatants were tested by ELISA. The results showed that PL-MSCs up-regulated the production of all three immunoregulatory cytokines by PL-ICs. PL-MSCs stimulated the production of IL-10 and IL-27 via soluble factors, whereas the up-regulation of TGF-β required direct cell-to-cell contacts. In conclusion, our results showed for the first time the involvement of PL-MSCs in restriction of inflammation in PLs by up-regulation of immunoregulatory cytokines.
Attitudes and Knowledge of Medical Students about Distance Learning / Stavovi i znanje studenata medicine o učenju na daljinu
Authors: Stanković Aleksandra , Petrović Branislav , Milosević Zoran
Published: February 2016

Distance learning can be defined as education or training offered to participants at a different place, physically distant from the lecturer or sources of information. The difference in attitudes and knowledge of students about distance learning in relation to gender and year of studying was examined. The study sample included 371 students of the Faculty of Medicine in Niš (165 students were at the first year of studies and 206 students were at the sixth year of studies). Originally structured epidemiological questionnaire was distributed to students. Gender and age had no significant influence on students’ knowledge of distance learning. There was no statistically significant difference in taking positive attitudes about distance learning among medical students of the first and sixth year. Gender has statistically significantly affected the attitudes. E-learning does not eliminate the existing methods of learning, but it supplements them and greatly helps in teaching plans and programs.
Morphological Variations of the Cemento-Enamel Junction in Permanent Dentition / Morfološke varijacije cementno gleđnog spoja kod zuba stalne denticije
Authors: Stošić Nenad , Dačić Stefan , Dačić Simonović Dragica
Published: February 2016

Cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) is an important anatomical structure of the tooth, which is located in the cervical part of the tooth between the crown and root, or at the contact point between the enamel which overlaps the tooth crown and cementum overlapping the root dentin.

There are four possible relationships between two tissues that make the CEJ such as: the cement overlaps the enamel; the enamel overlaps the cement; the enamel and cement abut each other with no overlap; the enamel and cement are not in contact. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the enamel and cement which make the CEJ in different types of permanent teeth.

The material consisted of 30 permanent teeth with intact CEJ. Staining of CEJ was carried out using the methylene blue. After staining, the tooth was washed under the running water and drying at room temperature. Each tooth was longitudinally cut in the vestibular-oral direction. Observation of CEJ was done with Leica light microscope and images were obtained using a Nikon camera.

The results indicated that the most common form of CEJ between the cement and enamel in the region of CEJ was that cement and enamel abutted without overlap (36.7%), followed by the cement overlapping the enamel (33.3%), and the cases when a gap between the cement and enamel (16.7%) was present, and when the enamel overlaped the cement (13.3%).

Because of the morphological diversity of CEJ, careful performing of dental interventions in the region of tooth neck is necessary because they may change the morphology of this region, induce the pathological processes and hypersensitivity of teeth.
A Concept Of Modification And Simulation Studies Of A Mechatronic Stair Transporter For The Disabled
Authors: Wudarczyk Sławomir , Muraszkowski Artur
Published: February 2016

A numerical model of existing stair climber with its passenger was built and its operation was analysed through simulations. A modification of the stair climber has been developed on a basis of the simulation studies. The modification depends on equipping the device with additional controllable mechanism the function of which is to change the position of the passenger’s centre of gravity. Comparative simulation studies were carried out for the standard version and the modified version of the stair transporter in a system for the dynamic.
Robust Output Regulation Of Uncertain Chaotic Systems With Input Magnitude And Rate Constraints
Authors: Velosa Carlos M.N. , Bousson Kouamana
Published: February 2016

The problem of output regulation deserves a special attention particularly when it comes to the regulation of nonlinear systems. It is well-known that the problem is not always solvable even for linear systems and the fact that some demanding applications require not only magnitude but also rate actuator constraints makes the problem even more challenging. In addition, real physical systems might have parameters whose values can be known only with a specified accuracy and these uncertainties must also be considered to ensure robustness and on the other hand because they can be crucial for the type of behaviour exhibited by the system as it happens with the celebrated chaotic systems. The present paper proposes a robust control method for output regulation of chaotic systems with parameter uncertainties and subjected to magnitude and rate actuator constraints. The method is an extension of a work recently addressed by the same authors and consists in decomposing the nonlinear system into a stabilizable linear part plus a nonlinear part and in finding a control law based on the small-gain principle. Numerical simulations are performed to validate the effectiveness and robustness of the method using an aeronautical application. The output regulation is successfully achieved without exceeding the input constraints and stability is assured when the parameters are within the specified intervals. Furthermore, the proposed method does not require much computational effort because all the control parameters are computed offline.
A study examining the bias of albumin and albumin/creatinine ratio measurements in urine
Authors: Jacobson Beryl E. , Seccombe David W. , Katayev Alex , Levin Adeera
Published: February 2016

The objective of the study was to examine the bias of albumin and albumin/creatinine (ACR) measurements in urine.

Pools of normal human urine were augmented with purified human serum albumin to generate a series of 12 samples covering the clinical range of interest for the measurement of ACR. Albumin and creatinine concentrations in these samples were analyzed three times on each of 3 days by 24 accredited laboratories in Canada and the USA. Reference values (RV) for albumin measurements were assigned by a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) comparative method and gravimetrically. Ten random urine samples (check samples) were analyzed as singlets and albumin and ACR values reported according to the routine practices of each laboratory.

Augmented urine pools were shown to be commutable. Gravimetrically assigned target values were corrected for the presence of endogenous albumin using the LC-MS/MS comparative method. There was excellent agreement between the RVs as assigned by these two methods. All laboratory medians demonstrated a negative bias for the measurement of albumin in urine over the concentration range examined. The magnitude of this bias tended to decrease with increasing albumin concentrations. At baseline, only 10% of the patient ACR values met a performance limit of RV ±15%. This increased to 84% and 86% following post-analytical correction for albumin and creatinine calibration bias, respectively.

International organizations should take a leading role in the standardization of albumin measurements in urine. In the interim, accuracy based urine quality control samples may be used by clinical laboratories for monitoring the accuracy of their urinary albumin measurements.
Elevated circulating ghrelin, but not peptide YY(3-36) levels, in term neonates with infection
Authors: Siahanidou Tania , Margeli Alexandra , Tsirogianni Chrysanthi , Hantzi Eugenia , Papassotiriou Ioannis , Chrousos George
Published: February 2016

Early diagnosis and treatment of neonatal infection is important to prevent morbidity and mortality. The gastrointestinal tract-derived hormones ghrelin and peptide YY (PYY), which participate in the regulation of food intake and energy balance, may also play roles in the inflammatory response. Their involvement in neonatal infection is not known.

Plasma ghrelin and PYY(3-36) levels were serially measured (by ELISA) on Days 0, 1, 2, 3 and 7 following admission in 36-term neonates with febrile infection (22 of them were septic) and once in 20 healthy term neonates of similar postnatal age and gender distribution, as controls. Associations of ghrelin and PYY(3-36) levels with clinical and laboratory parameters, including anthropometrics, fever, leukocyte and platelet counts, serum glucose, C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A levels, were assessed.

Plasma ghrelin levels were significantly higher in infected neonates than in controls at each study day (p=0.009), whereas PYY(3-36) levels did not differ significantly between patients and controls at any day. In infected neonates, ghrelin levels on admission correlated negatively with serum glucose levels (p=0.003), whereas fever change during the course of infection was significantly associated with change of ghrelin levels (p=0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis of ghrelin levels resulted in significant areas under the curve (AUC) for detecting infected neonates on admission (AUC=0.728, p=0.005).

Circulating ghrelin, but not PYY(3-36), levels are increased in neonates with infection, possibly reflecting and/or participating in the inflammatory process.
The Customary Identity of the Coppersmiths Clan in Oltenia: Between Tradition and Modernity
Authors: Preda Mihaela , Vijulie Iuliana , Manea Gabriela , Mareci Alina
Published: February 2016

The coppersmiths’ uniqueness as a Roma clan is given by their traditional crafting legacy, as they themselves acknowledge. They are one of the more conservative Roma clans. Encouraged by their previous nomadic lifestyle, it hasn’t allowed them to blend with other clans or populations. Mixed marriages are forbidden and marriages with members of other Roma clans are rare. The aim of this study is to identify the elements that define the ethnic identity of the coppersmiths clan, to analyse the features that make out the coppersmiths’ customary identity, and to measure the self-segregation tendencies within the coppersmiths ethnic group. The main research methods were: bibliographic documentation, direct observation, field inquiries (structured interviews), and digital mapping. The research concluded the following: the coppersmiths are one of the extreme conservative clans, which have maintained their customary identity. The tendency of self-segregation is a direct consequence of their resistance towards anything modern, and the members of the coppersmiths clan believe that acting like the majority of society will only lead to the loss of their own identity. The consequences are mostly negative, e.g. poor school enrolment, marrying at an early age, an absence from modern socio-economic activities, etc.
How organizers of scientific meetings and journal editors could facilitate transfer of nanomedicine into the clinic
Authors: Skotland Tore
Published: February 2016

This opinion paper contains views on how organizers of scientific meetings and journal editors can facilitate transfer of new nanomedicine into the clinic. The need for interdisciplinary discussions at such meetings are emphasized, as well as the importance of learning from the regulatory authorities and large pharmaceutical companies about what is needed to bring new products into clinical use. The importance of improving the review process of translational studies published by the main nanomedical journals is pointed out as very important for bringing the field forward and to increase the level of scientific discussions in general.
A Case-Law Study of the Truth as Human Right
Authors: Castillo-Córdova Luis , Mosquera-Monelos Susana
Published: February 2016

We consider the right to the truth an essential human right that should be recognized and guaranteed by the Law. Allowing all humans access to the truth is a human good permitting the achievement of a higher degree of human perfection and realization and, consequently, there are strong reasons to affirm that the Law should recognize and guarantee as much as possible access to the truth. Considering that it has been the international recognition of the right to the truth which has provided the basis for domestic regulations it is logical that we should focus attention on the international sphere of human rights protection and it is for this reason that we have carried out a case-law method investigation to describe the concept of “the right to the truth”.
Reliability Analysis of Traditional and Ballistic Bench Press Exercises at Different Loads
Authors: García-Ramos Amador , Padial Paulino , García-Ramos Miguel , Conde-Pipó Javier , Argüelles-Cienfuegos Javier , Štirn Igor , Feriche Belén
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine test–retest reliability for peak barbell velocity (Vpeak) during the bench press (BP) and bench press throw (BPT) exercises for loads corresponding to 20–70% of one-repetition maximum (1RM). Thirty physically active collegiate men conducted four evaluations after a preliminary BP 1RM determination (1RM·bw-1 = 1.02 ± 0.16 kg·kg-1). In counterbalanced order, participants performed two sessions of the BP in one week and two sessions of the BPT in another week. Recovery time between sessions within the same week was 48 hours and recovery time between sessions of different weeks was 120 hours. On each day of evaluation the individual load-velocity relationship at each tenth percentile (20–70% of 1RM) in a Smith machine for the BP or BPT was determined. Participants performed three attempts per load, but only the best repetition (highest Vpeak), registered by a linear position transducer, was analysed. The BPT resulted in a significantly lower coefficient of variation (CV) for the whole load–velocity relationship, compared to the BP (2.48% vs. 3.22%; p = 0.040). Test–retest intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranged from r = 0.94-0.85 for the BPT and r = 0.91-0.71 for the BP (p < 0.001). The reduction in the biological within-subject variation in BPT exercise could be promoted by the braking phase that obligatorily occurs during a BP executed with light or moderate loads. Therefore, we recommend the BPT exercise for a most accurate assessment of upper-body velocity.
Can height categories replace weight categories in striking martial arts competitions? A pilot study
Authors: Dubnov-Raz Gal , Mashiach-Arazi Yael , Nouriel Ariella , Raz Raanan , Constantini Naama W.
Published: February 2016

In most combat sports and martial arts, athletes compete within weight categories. Disordered eating behaviors and intentional pre-competition rapid weight loss are commonly seen in this population, attributed to weight categorization. We examined if height categories can be used as an alternative to weight categories for competition, in order to protect the health of athletes.

Height and weight of 169 child and adolescent competitive karate athletes were measured. Participants were divided into eleven hypothetical weight categories of 5 kg increments, and eleven hypothetical height categories of 5 cm increments. We calculated the coefficient of variation of height and weight by each division method. We also calculated how many participants fit into corresponding categories of both height and weight, and how many would shift a category if divided by height.

There was a high correlation between height and weight (r = 0.91, p<0.001). The mean range of heights seen within current weight categories was reduced by 83% when participants were divided by height. When allocating athletes by height categories, 74% of athletes would shift up or down one weight category at most, compared with the current categorization method.

We conclude that dividing young karate athletes by height categories significantly reduced the range of heights of competitors within the category. Such categorization would not cause athletes to compete against much heavier opponents in most cases. Using height categories as a means to reduce eating disorders in combat sports should be further examined.
Effects of Traditional Versus Horizontal Inertial Flywheel Power Training on Common Sport-Related Tasks
Authors: de Hoyo Moisés , Sañudo Borja , Carrasco Luis , Domínguez-Cobo Sergio , Mateo-Cortes Jesús , Cadenas-Sánchez María Monserrat , Nimphius Sophia
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to analyze the effects of power training using traditional vertical resistance exercises versus direction specific horizontal inertial flywheel training on performance in common sport-related tasks. Twenty-three healthy and physically active males (age: 22.29 ± 2.45 years) volunteered to participate in this study. Participants were allocated into either the traditional training (TT) group where the half squat exercise on a smith machine was applied or the horizontal flywheel training (HFT) group performing the front step exercise with an inertial flywheel. Training volume and intensity were matched between groups by repetitions (5-8 sets with 8 repetitions) and relative intensity (the load that maximized power (Pmax)) over the period of six weeks. Speed (10 m and 20 m), countermovement jump height (CMJH), 20 m change of direction ability (COD) and strength during a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) were assessed before and after the training program. The differences between groups and by time were assessed using a two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures, followed by paired t-tests. A significant group by time interaction (p=0.004) was found in the TT group demonstrating a significantly higher CMJH. Within-group analysis revealed statistically significant improvements in a 10 m sprint (TT: −0.17 0.27 s vs. HFT: −0.11 0.10 s), CMJH (TT: 4.92 2.58 cm vs. HFT: 1.55 2.44 cm) and MVIC (TT: 62.87 79.71 N vs. HFT: 106.56 121.63 N) in both groups (p < 0.05). However, significant differences only occurred in the 20 m sprint time in the TT group (−0.04 0.12 s; p = 0.04). In conclusion, the results suggest that TT at the maximal peak power load is more effective than HFT for counter movement jump height while both TT and HFT elicited significant improvements in 10 m sprint performance while only TT significantly improved 20 m sprint performance.
The Structure of Morpho-Functional Conditions Determining the Level of Sports Performance of Young Badminton Players
Authors: Jaworski Janusz , Żak Michał
Published: February 2016

The aim of the study was to determine the structure of morpho-functional models that determine the level of sports performance in three consecutive stages of training of young badminton players. In the course of the study, 3 groups of young badminton players were examined: 40 preadolescents aged 11–13, 32 adolescents aged 14–16, and 24 adolescents aged 17–19. The scope of the study involved basic anthropometric measurements, computer tests analysing motor coordination abilities, motor skills encompassing speed, muscular power and strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Results of the study indicate that the structure of morpho-functional models varies at different stages of sports training. Sets of variables determining sports performance create characteristic complexes of variables that do not constitute permanent models. The dominance of somatic features and coordination abilities in the early stages of badminton training changes for the benefit of speed and strength abilities.
Psychological Gender and Emotional Intelligence in Youth Female Soccer Players
Authors: Rutkowska Katarzyna , Bergier Józef
Published: February 2016

Many sports (for instance soccer) are stereotypically perceived as a male activity. Even so, more and more women decide to become competitive athletes. Since the theory of sport requires comprehensive explanations and the practice of sport needs clear guidelines, interdisciplinary studies into the nature of sport, including its psychological aspects, are necessary. Analysing the psychological profile of female soccer players, particularly those who are about to become professional athletes, can provide many interesting insights into the specific character of female youth sport and show where improvements can be made in athletic training programmes (especially in mental training). It is therefore important to study psychological gender that determines social behaviours and to analyse female athletes’ emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is defined as a set of emotional competencies that determine the effectiveness of human behaviours. Psychological gender and emotional intelligence have a significant effect on human adaptability and the efficiency of psychosocial functioning. This research was undertaken with the dual purpose of identifying the psychological gender and emotional intelligence of female soccer players. It involved 54 secondary-school girls, some of whom attended a sports class and others played on the Polish national team. The following tools were used to carry out the research: the Gender Assessment Inventory (IPP [This and the other acronyms derive from the Polish language]-developed by Kuczyńska) and the Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (INTE; created by Jaworowska and Matczak). As shown by the analysis of the results, most female soccer players in the study were androgynous and the level of their emotional intelligence was significantly higher than in other participants. This also seems to point to their significantly greater adaptability. At the same time, the level of emotional intelligence in many players was average or low, which seems insufficient and calls for adequate intervention measures to be taken.
Discussions on Particle Flux Measurement in Gas-Solids Risers
Authors: Zhang Yongmin
Published: February 2016

In gas-solids risers of fast fluidization regime, the gross particle flux determined by integrating the product of the measured average particle concentration and velocity is always found several times or even larger than that measured by direct experimental methods. Based on analysis of the measurement mechanisms and a simple model for two-phase flow structure in gas-solids risers, this big unidirectional deviation is first explained in depth in this study. It is concluded that the unique two-phase flow structure (i.e. the low-velocity dense phase and high-velocity dilute phase in a gas-solids riser) and the bad coupling quality of the measured transient particle concentration and velocity during data processing lead to this big unidirectional deviation. Finally, this explanation is extended to wider multiphase flow systems and advices are proposed in measuring phase fluxes.
Advancing Opportunities in Renewable Energy Production
Authors: Vokony István , Bonda Balázs , Talamon Attila , Nagy Máté , Holló Gergő
Published: February 2016

The organization - WEC Hungarian Young Professionals in Energy (HYPE) - in line with WEC’s (World Energy Council) visions aims for the dissemination of the principle of sustainable energy development in Hungary. The HYPE’s goals are to represent the Hungarian energy sector’s viewpoint at national, regional and international events; to introduce and evaluate the key energy issues by preparing studies; and to foster the development of future energy professionals.

Sustainable development and the strongly related secure supply is one of the most important questions arise among energy engineering issues. One of the first answers for the above complex problem is renewable energy sources. To achieve success, that is to integrate renewable systems, it is essential to design, control and support engineering and financial background of electrical engineering structures. (The question is even more important for Hungary, where neither energy nor financial resources are abundant at all.)

The long term energy politics of the European Union aims to provide well-being for its citizens. It can be derived to several sub-notions which the EU would also like to support therefore, such as the appropriate operation of the economy, access to electric energy for both households and corporate consumers on reasonable prices and attention to environmental protection and sustainable growth in the meanwhile.

As of the above mentioned goals, the EU is committed to maintain the Europe 2020 strategy (20-20-20 initiative) which aims to reduce green-house gas emission by 20%, increase renewable energy sources to 20% (from 8.5%) and increase energy efficiency by 20% until 2020. The EU has launched several actions to achieve the 20-plans. Integration of electricity markets, development of networks and establishing investment capital is in progress.

In the followings a chronology and overview will be presented to give a better understanding the aims, subsidy systems and energy politics’ targets. The study of WEC Hungarian Young Professionals in Energy brings opinion on the National Action Plan as well which is especially recommended to our readers.
Auditing Community Software Development
Authors: Mészáros Gergely
Published: February 2016

In accordance with European efforts related to Critical Information Infrastructure Protection, in Hungary a special department called LRL-IBEK has been formed which is designated under the Disaster Management. While specific security issues of commercial applications are well understood and regulated by widely applied standards, increasing share of information systems are developed partly or entirely in a different way, by the community. In this paper different issues of the open development style will be discussed regarding the high requirements of Critical Information Infrastructures, and possible countermeasures will be suggested for the identified problems.
Vernacular Architecture - Earthen Buildings in Central and Easten Europe
Authors: Mara Popescu , Tasnádi Zsuzsanna
Published: February 2016

The revival of earthen architecture in the last thirty years has allowed, finally, a project flowering compelling challenges facing society in the XXI century. This earthen modern architecture is determined by the environmental quality of the material: energetic, economical (material widely available) and aesthetical. This new architecture meets also a return to logically reasoned and reasonable by upgrading local resources, not only material available in situ, but also of knowledge and human resources replies architectural and construction in the territories and people they inhabit.
In-situ Measurements in Overconsolidated Clay
Authors: Horvath-Kalman Eszter
Published: February 2016

The study is about the general genesis process of overconsolidated soils, as well as the effects of the overconsolidated ratio to structures. It will demonstrate the possible methods for the determination of the values of overconsolidated ratio and of earth pressure at rest and of the other soil-physical parameters; further, the processing of measurement results, through which the values of OCR (Overconsolidated ratio) and of λ0 (Earth pressure at rest) and of c, E soil-physical parameters (friction angles, cohesion and Young modulus) in the Kiscelli Clay Marl have been determined by Selfboring Pressuremeter.
Organizational Experiences, Satisfactions and Psychological Wellbeing among Managerial and Professional Women in Turkey4
Authors: Burke Ronald J. , Koksal Hayakl , Wolpin Jacob
Published: February 2016

This research, building on previous work of others, examines the association of four work experiences with work and extra-work satisfactions and psychological wellbeing of a sample of managerial and professional women in Turkey. The four work experiences: Use of male standards, Career barriers, Negative perceptions of family responsibilities, and Workplace supports. Data were collected from 209 women using anonymously completed questionnaires. Women worked in the private, public, and voluntary sectors. Work outcomes included job and career satisfaction, work engagement, intent to quit, work-family conflict and perceptions of male bias in their workplaces; psychological wellbeing included levels of emotional exhaustion, life satisfaction and health complaints. Women reporting more negative perceptions of Family responsibilities also indicated higher levels of Male standards and Career barriers in their workplaces; women reporting a greater prevalence of Male standards also indicated more Career barriers in their workplaces. One or more organizational experiences had significant relationships with all work and well-being outcomes, controlling for the effects of both personal demographic characteristics and work situation factors. Career supports were associated with more positive outcomes; career barriers and more negative perceptions of family responsibilities were associated with more negative outcomes
Does Country of Origin Matter whilst Evaluating Candidates for Managerial Positions?
Authors: Rozkwitalska Małgorzata , Magier-Łakomy Ewa
Published: February 2016

A growing number of foreign country nationals in economies worldwide challenges academics to raise a question whether one’s country of origin (COO) matters when selecting candidates for managerial positions. Thus the aim of this paper is to analyze the COO effect on the evaluation of managerial competence of a foreign individual. The analysis includes both the literature review and the empirical findings from the authors’ pilot research. A focus group interview is the method that was applied in the study. The analysis contributes to the nascent streams in international business and cross-cultural management research that concern the COO effect and the liability of foreignness (LOF) that refers to foreign newcomers (i.e. immigrants, ex/inpatriaties). It also adds some practical implications for the International Human Resource Management literature with that respect. The empirical findings suggest that COO is apparent when managerial skills are evaluated by locals.
Achieving Environmental Sustainability through Knowledge Management: a Survey Conducted among Corporates in the Czech Republic
Authors: Saczyna Magdalena
Published: February 2016

It is now widely recognized that knowledge assets and technological enhancements are essential strategic resources for any organisation to achieve competitive advantage and sustainability. The imperative for achieving this efficiency is in transfer of relevant information for decision-making across all levels of company structure. It can be done with well-disposed knowledge management system, that improves the overall corporate performance. This paper examines how companies in Czech Republic manage their internal knowledge associated with environmental sustainability so as to improve their overall corporate performance.
Dynamic Response of Three-Layered, Annular Plate with Thick Core
Authors: Pawlus Dorota
Published: February 2016

The paper presents the solutions, calculation results and dynamic observations of three-layers, annular plate with thick core subjected to increasing in time load. The presented solutions use approximate methods: orthogonalization method and finite difference method in analytical and numerical solution of the problem, and finite element method. The observed phenomenon of the reduction of critical load values of the plates, in which the buckling mode is not global and there are different additional deflections of respective plate layers was comprehensively analysed in order to evaluate the critical state and supercritical plate behaviour. The critical deformation could have a form with strong deformation in the region of the loaded plate edge. The observation of the dynamic behaviour of plates, which buckling modes have circumferential waves is an important element of the analysis. Presented in this work the analytical and numerical solution to the problem of dynamic plate deflection was generalized on the case of plates with buckling waves in circumferential direction.
Dynamics of the Monorail Train Subjected to the Braking on a Straight Guideway Bridge
Authors: Naeimi Meysam , Tatari Meisam , Esmaeilzadeh Amin
Published: February 2016

A finite element (FE) model of the straight guideway bridge under monorail train has been built in this research in order to investigate dynamic interactions of the coupled system in the vertical and longitudinal direction. A limited length of the straddle monorail bridge including five continuous spans is modeled in three dimensions by using FE method. A 3D model of the monorail train system, built in the multibody analyzer MSC ADAMS, is assembled over the bridge. The entire model, consisting of the vehicle and bridge subsystems, is numerically analyzed by performing dynamic simulation in time domain. The braking forces between the train tires and guideway beams are activated in the analysis, in addition to the dead weights of the components and the train live loads. Dynamic forces in the tires are obtained for the case of the emergency braking in the system. The reaction forces, appeared in the bridge piers, are reported as the input forces for the purpose of the bridge design.
Design and Development of Two Manipulators as a Key Element of a Space Robot Testing Facility
Authors: Seweryn Karol , Grassmann Kamil , Rutkowski Konrad , Rybus Tomasz , Wawrzaszek Roman
Published: February 2016

The process of designing control systems for devices operating in microgravity, on-orbit environment, requires testing to verify the effectiveness and characteristics of the algorithms. The key issue is to design a relevant environment in terrestrial conditions that affects both the linear and angular three-dimensional motion of a rigid body. This paper contains a description of the mechanical aspects of two test beds used to evaluate control algorithms planned for use in a space manipulator. Two solutions are presented: (i) a planar manipulator with a free base placed on an air-bearing table; and (ii) a test bed with a 7-DOF manipulator fixed through a force-torque measurement system to the base.
Crystal structure of poly[(di-μ2-aqua-κ2
O:O)bis(μ5-oxalato-1:2κ2
O
1; 1κ1
O
2; 3:4:5κ3
O
3; 3κ1
O
4)(μ4-oxalato-1:2κ2
O
1; 2:3κ2
O
2; 3:4κ2
O
3; 4:1κ2
O
4)dizinc(II)disodium(I)]
Authors: Zhou Fang-Xia
Published: February 2016

(C6H4Na2O14Zn2)n, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 5.8671(13) Å, b = 15.661(3) Å, c = 6.9649(15) Å, β = 100.343(4)°, V = 629.6(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.049, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.104, T = 296(2) K.
Use and Utilization of Performance Information in Hungary: Exemplary Cases from the Local- Government and the Higher-Education Sectors
Authors: Hajnal György , Ugrósdy Márton
Published: February 2016

Performance information and performance management are usually seen as tools to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of different public-policy programs. Performance management is a hot topic in the post-NPM discourse, however most of the debate is centered on the Western European and Anglo-Saxon models of measurement and evaluation of public services. This paper examines how a Central European country with a strong Rechtsstaat tradition can adapt to the use of performance management, and what patterns we can identify in the actual manifestations of measurement and use of data. The authors argue that even though performance management is not known in Hungary as per defined in the academic literature, there are signs on the ground that PM ideology and actual use are gaining traction in every field of public services, both in central and local governments.
Taxation of Partnership - Economic national reports for the Nordic Tax Research Council′s annual meeting, 2015 in Aarhus
Authors: Hilling Axel
Published: February 2016

This joint report includes economic national reports on the taxation of partnership in the Nordic countries, except Denmark. The general contents of these reports are summarized and thoroughly analyzed in Anna Holst Birket-Smith’s General report, published in this issue of the NTaxJ. For additional information, details on legislative measures etc. we find it important, however, to also publish the national reports in full length. We hope you will find it valuable as well. The respective national reports appear in alphabetic order, in regard to the country which regulation is presented. Name of the country reporter and contact information are presented in the beginning of each report.
Proactive Public Disclosure: A new regulatory strategy for creating tax compliance?
Authors: Boll Karen , Tell Michael
Published: February 2016

This article discusses proactive public disclosure of taxpayer information and how this may form a new strategy for securing tax compliance by tax administrators. It reports a case study from the Danish Customs and Tax Administration in which consumers of services-over a short period of time-were informed about businesses’ lack of value-added tax (VAT) registration. Our approach to the case is twofold: First, the article lays out a legal analysis of the disclosure practice, and second, the article presents an organizational analysis of why the practice was initiated. The analyses show that using proactive public disclosure is compatible with the Duty of Confidentiality, but incompatible with Good Public Governance. Furthermore, the analyses show that there are a number of strong organizational rationales for using proactive public disclosure, despite its apparent incompatibility with Good Public Governance. The article is innovative in that it combines a legal and organizational approach to analyse a new regulatory strategy within tax administration.
Participation in Medical Tourism versus Physical Activity of Patients after Liposuction: What are the Concerns about Health and Quality of Life?
Authors: Lubowiecki-Vikuk Adrian
Published: February 2016

Nowadays, the act of taking care of one’s appearance has become a marker of a healthy lifestyle among both women and (mostly metrosexual) men. Physical activity plays a minor role, and tourist trips are more and more frequently combined with the consumption of medical services, including surgery and aesthetic dermatology. The aim of this study is to explain the phenomenon of medical tourism, particularly the specialized category of medical tourism for liposuction treatments, and its relation to the values of physical culture. The work is theoretical; it is supplemented by references to the presented issues in the form of a case study of “lipotourism” and its participants. As a result, the profile of a medical tourist has been identified against which a “lipotourist” constitutes an inimitable case. It seems that although the purpose for the travels of such a tourist is recognized, it still remains a matter of conjecture in terms of experience and behavior.

To prove the thesis that participating in tourism for medical reasons can affect one’s quality of life, certain conditions must be met: 1. The applied treatment must not cause (permanent) damage to the patient’s health; 2. Liposuction must be treated exclusively as an (invasive) aesthetic surgery and not as a method of weight reduction; 3. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet and lifestyle must be included in the process of body shaping, and 4. Health and physical education must be treated as superior values of quality of life. The existing considerations should only be regarded as preliminary.
Legal Duties and Legal Liabilities of Coaches toward Athletes
Authors: Mirsafian Hamidreza
Published: February 2016

Background. It is undeniable that coaches play a major role in the development of athletes. Coaches and athletes have a close relationship and share various experiences that lead to a strong bond between them, and this is of great responsibility for the coach. Therefore, the coach should maintain this bond with mutual respect and trust. Various responsibilities are progressively placed on coaches by law to prevent or minimize injuries to athletes. In other words, since a coach is placed in a position of power and trust, the duty of care will always be placed on him. If certain requirements are not met, the coach may be held financially, or even criminally, liable. In this study, the author explains and discusses coaches’ legal duties, legal liabilities, and the elements required for liability of coaches toward athletes.
Barriers to linking research and policy: the case of long-term care in low and middle income countries
Authors: Lloyd-Sherlock Peter
Published: February 2016

This paper sets out a number of issues related to the translation of research into evidence and policy for long-term care (LTC) in low and middle income countries (LMICs). First, it assesses the role research can play in problem definition, including establishing the scale of long-term care demand in LMICs and identifying potential negative consequences of policy inaction. Second, it assesses the role that research can play in identifying and evaluating solutions to the problem, in the form of suitable policies and interventions. Lastly, it assesses mutual accessibility between researchers and policy-makers, paying particular attention to institutional and organisational structures. Applying this framework, the paper demonstrates that the capacity for research to influence long-term care policy is very limited. The paper calls for the establishment of an adequately resourced global institutional hub to support research in this area and to promote knowledge-sharing between academics and policy-makers.
Hepatopulmonary Syndrome: A Brief Review
Authors: Amin Zulkifli , Amin Hilman Zulkifli , Tedyanto Nadim Marchian
Published: February 2016

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a pulmonary complication of liver disease characterized by arterial hypoxemia. Mechanisms related to this event are diffusion-perfusion flaw, ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, and direct arteriovenous shunts. Diagnosis of HPS is based on the presence of liver disease or portal hypertension, increased alveolar-arterial (A-a) PO2, and intrapulmonary vascular dilatations (IPVD). Lung transplantation (LT) remains the most effective therapy for HPS. In spite of its poor prognosis, we could improve the quality of life and survival rate of patients.