bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Social Initiatives and Employee Retention
Authors: Bode Christiane , Singh Jasjit , Rogan Michelle
Published: October 2015

Firms are increasingly launching initiatives with explicit social mandates. The business case for these often relies on one critical aspect of human capital management: employee retention. Although prior empirical studies have demonstrated a link between corporate social initiatives and intermediate employee-related outcomes such as motivation and identification with the firm, their relationship with final retention outcomes has not been investigated. Our study fills this gap. Using individual-level data for approximately 10,000 employees in a global management consulting firm, we present empirical evidence of a positive retention effect associated with employee participation in a corporate initiative with explicit social impact goals. In addition, we offer arguments for moderating conditions that weaken this relationship and present evidence consistent with our arguments. Further econometric analysis based on a stringent matching approach as well as additional analyses based on survey and interview data suggest that the retention effect can at least partly be attributed to treatment and is not all just a manifestation of sorting of certain types of employees into the social initiative. Overall, by demonstrating a positive association between social initiative participation and employee retention, this study highlights the need for further research into how corporate social engagement can serve as a tool for strategic human capital management.
The toxic lining of men’s fashion consumption: The omnipresent force of hegemonic masculinity
Authors: Barry Ben
Published: October 2015

While scholars have theorized about men’s motives for consuming fashion, few empirical studies have explored these theorizations against men’s lived experiences. A gap in knowledge exists between how scholars understand men’s fashion consumption and how men understand their fashion consumption. In this article, I examine men’s motives for consuming fashion based on individual interviews with 30 demographically diverse male consumers. Findings reveal that men are motivated to consume fashion because it provides benefits, including expressing identity, cultivating success and facilitating engagement. However, the pressures of body anxiety, exclusion and sartorial stress temper these positive outcomes. The common thread of hegemonic masculinity connect the various benefits and pressures that men experience when they engage in fashion. My research enhances knowledge about the operation of masculinity in consumer culture and the anxieties that men experience during the fashion consumption process. Menswear brands are advised to promote diverse masculine ideals in order to prevent negative business outcomes.
Nazi dress: Hitler’s storm troopers and appearance management, 1921–1933
Authors: Homberger Torsten , Bradley Linda Arthur
Published: October 2015

Fascism defies an easy definition. However, scholars of fascism have long recognized the linkage between style and fascist politics as a starting point for historical investigation. Surprisingly, scholarship on fascism has, so far, largely ignored the use of uniforms as one of the most important similarities of fascists across Europe. To the general public and the trained historian alike, a cultural historical approach to the study of fascism focusing on fascist uniforms opens up routes of investigation that can lead to fascinating new insights into a historical field awash in a multitude of monographs and articles. Over the last decades political and social historians have described and analysed most major aspects of German fascism. Nevertheless, the picture cannot be considered complete. A focus on fascist uniforms, and thus cultural history, promises to round out the picture of the allure of German fascism. Drawing on theories established by scholars of fashion and uniforms, and employing historical evidence in the form of archival documentation regarding Nazi uniforms and public behaviour, this article proposes that, as the Nazis evolved from 1921 to 1933, they used their dress in the process of appearance management in order to influence their public perception as masculine and plebeian, yet also disciplined.
Periodicity, the Canon and Sport
Authors: Scanlon Thomas F.
Published: October 2015

El tema presentado bajo este título es ciertamente muy amplio, ya que abarca dos conceptos de tiempo y de valorización cultural de los productos artísticos muy generales. Ambos fenómenos son, en la visión actual, ampliamente construidos por sus culturas contemporáneas, y han recibido autoridad en gran medida a partir del prestigio del pasado. La antigüedad de la tradición trae con ella cierta distinción. Incluso aunque puede haber debates periféricos en cualquier sociedad dada que cuestionen las especificidades de la periodización o de la canonicidad, generalmente se acepta la designación consensuada de una secuencia de períodos históricos y se acepta igualmente una lista de trabajos artísticos de alto valor como canónica o con autoridad. Examinaremos primero algunos de los procesos de periodización y de formación de cánones, tras lo cual discutiremos algunos ejemplos específicos de cómo estos procesos han funcionado en el deporte de dos antiguas culturas, en concreto Grecia y Mesoamérica.
Nacionalismo canario de izquierdas: La efímera Unión del Pueblo Canario
Authors: Luis León Ángel Dámaso
Published: October 2015

La Unión del Pueblo Canario ha sido la más importante experiencia de la historia del nacionalismo canario de izquierdas. Surgida en los últimos años de la década de los setenta, esta coalición formada por individuos y grupos procedentes de la antigua izquierda antifranquista, desarrollo en las islas una actividad política potente aunque efímera. Estrechamente relacionada con el comunismo, el tercermundismo y los movimientos de liberación nacional en el continente africano, la Unión del Pueblo Canario buscó canalizar el creciente despertar nacionalista y obrero en las islas. El objetivo principal de este artículo es analizar los aspectos que producen el contexto adecuado para el desarrollo de una coalición como la Unión del Pueblo Canario, así como también se intentarán describir los factores que producen su ascenso hasta ciertas cotas de poder y como su actuación y el contexto cambiante de la década de los ochenta en Canarias, España y el mundo, hace que la coalición pierda su fuerza y se desmorone.
Measuring the three forms of ellagic acid: suitability of extraction solvents
Authors: Williams David J. , Edwards David , Chaliha Mridusmita , Sultanbawa Yasmina
Published: October 2015

Accurate quantification of ellagic acid and its derivatives, ellagic acid glycosides and ellagitannins, present in plant-based foods is a vital prerequisite for any study of their health-promoting properties. This goal is impeded by the lack of commercially available standards and the fact that these three forms differ widely in solubility. This disparity necessitates careful attention being paid to the choice of extraction solvents to ensure that precise and reproducible content measurements are achieved. This work sought to devise an extraction protocol that is effective for all ellagic acid forms whilst keeping the water-insoluble free ellagic acid solubilised during all analysis stages. To overcome this unavailability of commercial standards, the designated “targeted” ellagic acid derivatives identified in the selected fruit were monitored during the course of extraction that employed a number of commonly used solvents. Large variations in the extraction yield of the solvents tested for the ellagic acid and its derivatives were identified, extending even to the different fruit samples for the same form. It is regarded as unlikely that any selected extraction solvent could be universally employed to effectively extract all the ellagic acid compounds; however, the use of the solvent 50 : 50 vol. methanol–dimethylformamide satisfied most requirements.
Interaction of metallic zirconium and its alloys Zry-2 and E110 with molten eutectic salt of LiF–NaF–KF containing zirconium fluoride components
Authors: Pavlík Viliam , Barborík Peter , Miroslav Miroslav Boča , Vasková Zuzana
Published: October 2015

The interactions of selected zirconium alloys used as special construction materials (Zr-pure, Zry-2, E-110) with the molten system of (LiF–NaF–KF)
Algorithmic recognition of quasipositive 4-braids of algebraic length three
Authors: Orevkov Stepan Yu.
Published: October 2015

We give an algorithm to decide whether a given braid with four strings is a product of three factors which are conjugates of standard generators of the braid group. The algorithm is of polynomial time. It is based on the Garside theory. We give also a polynomial algorithm to decide if a given braid with any number of strings is a product of two factors which are conjugates of given powers of the standard generators (in my previous paper this problem was solved without polynomial estimates).
On the generic complexity of the searching graph isomorphism problem
Authors: Rybalov Alexander
Published: October 2015

A generic-case approach to algorithmic problems was suggested by Myasnikov, Kapovich, Schupp and Shpilrain in 2003. This approach studies the behavior of an algorithm on typical inputs and ignores the rest of the inputs. In this paper we consider generic complexity of the searching graph isomorphism problem. We fit this problem in the frameworks of generic complexity and prove that its natural subproblem is generically hard provided that the searching graph isomorphism problem is hard in the worst case.
Synthesis and antiviral evaluation of 2′,3′-dideoxy-2′,3′-difluoro-D-arabinofuranosyl 2,6-disubstituted purine nucleosides
Authors: Schinazi Raymond F. , Sivets Grigorii G. , Detorio Mervi A. , McBrayer Tami R. , Whitaker Tony , Coats Steven J. , Amblard Franck
Published: October 2015

The synthesis of new 2,6-disubstituted purine 2′,3′-dideoxy-2′,3′-difluoro-D-arabino nucleosides is reported. Their ability to block HIV and HCV replication along with their cytotoxicity toward Huh-7 cells, human lymphocyte, CEM and Vero cells was also assessed. Among them, β-2,6-diaminopurine nucleoside 25 and guanosine derivative 27 demonstrate potent anti-HIV-1 activity (EC50 = 0.56 and 0.65 μm; EC90 = 4.2 and 3.1 μm) while displaying only moderate cytotoxicity in primary human lymphocytes.
Fluorescent 1,2,3-triazole derivative of 3′-deoxy-3-azidothymidine: synthesis and absorption/emission spectra
Authors: Szafrański Przemysław W. , Kasza Patryk , Kępczyński Mariusz , Cegła Marek T.
Published: October 2015

3′-Deoxy-3-azidothymidine (AZT, zidovudine) is a nucleoside-analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor, successfully used against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Its structure contains an azide function, which makes it a useful substrate for 1,2,3-triazole synthesis, using the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition, the flagship reaction of ‘click chemistry’. Herein we present the synthesis and spectral characterization of its 1,2,3-triazole derivative containing a fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl (fmoc) fluorescent fragment. The preparation and characteristics of a novel fluorescent probe, 9H-fluoren-9-ylmethyl prop-2-yn-1-yl carbonate (propargyl-fmoc) is also presented.
Ownership Concentration and Firm Performance in Transition Economies: Evidence from Montenegro
Authors: Kalezić Zorica
Published: October 2015

The relationship between ownership concentration and firm performance has been the focal point of corporate governance literature and the subject of rather rich empirical literature. However, the current literature lacks uniformity and consensus regarding the nature and direction of this relationship. This research aims to contribute to this literature by investigating the relationship in a small and open transition economy of Montenegro.

We use primary data1 from the period 2004-2008 to analyse, for the first time, the impact of ownership concentration on firm performance in Montenegro. The results support the hypothesis that high ownership concentration enables effective monitoring by investors to protect their interests; i.e. in the specific circumstances of transition, ownership structure may be (temporarily) used as a viable substitute for the still underdeveloped corporate governance framework.
Study of CVD diamond layers with amorphous carbon admixture by Raman scattering spectroscopy
Authors: Dychalska Anna , Popielarski Piotr , Franków Wojciech , Fabisiak Kazimierz , Paprocki Kazimierz , Szybowicz Mirosław
Published: October 2015

Raman spectroscopy is a most often used standard technique for characterization of different carbon materials. In this work we present the Raman spectra of polycrystalline diamond layers of different quality, synthesized by Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition method (HF CVD). We show how to use Raman spectroscopy for the analysis of the Raman bands to determine the structure of diamond films as well as the structure of amorphous carbon admixture. Raman spectroscopy has become an important technique for the analysis of CVD diamond films. The first-order diamond Raman peak at ca. 1332 cm−1 is an unambiguous evidence for the presence of diamond phase in the deposited layer. However, the existence of non-diamond carbon components in a CVD diamond layer produces several overlapping peaks in the same wavenumber region as the first order diamond peak. The intensities, wavenumber, full width at half maximum (FWHM) of these bands are dependent on quality of diamond layer which is dependent on the deposition conditions. The aim of the present work is to relate the features of diamond Raman spectra to the features of Raman spectra of non-diamond phase admixture and occurrence of other carbon structures in the obtained diamond thin films.
Application of Aloe vera gel instead of silicon dioxide as organic dielectric material in microelectronics
Authors: Rana Sardar Masud , Al Amin Rashed , Uz-Zaman Anzan , Talukder Samioul Hasan , Mia Nasrul Haque , Tayyaba Shahzadi , Hoq Mahbubul
Published: October 2015

Organic materials are now being used in a wide range of microelectronic applications in parallel with inorganic materials, because of their superior properties, environmental safety, and low cost. This paper describes the characterization of Aloe vera gel (AVG), a new organic dielectric material. The surface morphology, spatial distribution of elements, and structural characteristics of an AVG layer were examined using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The resistance of the AVG layer, determined using a four-probe station, was 640 Ω EDX showed that the elements contained in the layer were carbon, oxygen, aluminum, silicon, calcium, potassium, and copper. The XRD results suggested that the sample primarily consisted of bornite (Cu5FeS4), geerite (Cu8S5), sal ammoniac (NH4Cl), and carobbite (KF).
Sampling parts of random integer partitions: a probabilistic and asymptotic analysis
Authors: Mutafchiev Ljuben
Published: October 2015

Let λ be a partition of the positive integer n, selected uniformly at random among all such partitions. Corteel et al. (1999) proposed three different procedures of sampling parts of λ at random. They obtained limiting distributions of the multiplicity μn = μn(λ) of the randomly-chosen part as n → ∞. The asymptotic behavior of the part size σn = σn(λ), under these sampling conditions, was found by Fristedt (1993) and Mutafchiev (2014). All these results motivated us to study the relationship between the size and the multiplicity of a randomly-selected part of a random partition. We describe it obtaining the joint limiting distributions of (μn; σn), as n → ∞, for all these three sampling procedures. It turns out that different sampling plans lead to different limiting distributions for (μn; σn). Our results generalize those obtained earlier and confirm the known expressions for the marginal limiting distributions of μn and σn.
The “grammar” in Universal Grammar: A biolinguistic clarification
Authors: Trettenbrein Patrick C.
Published: October 2015

This short piece addresses the confusion over terminology that has reigned, and partly still reigns, when it comes to the concept of Universal Grammar (UG). It is argued that whilst there might be changes in terminology and theory, conceptually UG cannot be eliminated. From a biolinguistic perspective, UG is not a hypothesis by any rational epistemological standard, but an axiom. Along these lines, the contemporary evolutionary perspective on the language faculty (FL) is briefly discussed to then argue that UG is necessarily part of FL in both a narrow and broad sense. Ultimately, regardless of terminology, UG is inevitably one of the factors determining the growth of FL.
The Growing Family of Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophies: Old and Newly Identified Members
Authors: Bastian Alexandra , Mageriu V. , Micu Gianina , Manole Emilia
Published: October 2015

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD) are an extremely heterogeneous and rapidly expanding group of diseases characterized by progressive weakness of pelvic, scapular and trunk muscles with sparing of facial and distal musculature in most of the subtypes, onset in childhood or in adults of both sexes, very variable clinical severity ranging from mild to severe phenotypes, some associated with cardio-pulmonary and extraskeletal impairment and high serum creatine-kinase (CK) levels. In the past years, huge advances have been recorded in the various identification methods and new distinct entities were discovered. However, it is not yet clear why some muscle groups are affected and others spared in a specific subtype of LGMD, why similar clinical pictures are associated with different genes and mutations, while the same gene or mutation may present with very various clinical phenotypes [1]. In this review we summarize the main aspects of positive and differential diagnosis in LGMD.
Renin Genetic Polymorphism in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Pop Dana , Sitar-Tăut Adela-Viviana , Procopciuc Lucia , Cebanu Mirela , Zdrenghea M. , Zdrenghea D.
Published: October 2015

Background. Genetic polymorphism of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system affects the pathogenesis of hypertension (HTN), ischemic heart disease (IHD) and heart failure (HF). The purpose of our study is to analyze A/G renin genetic polymorphism in heart failure patients.

Methods. We investigated renin polymorphism in 83 subjects hospitalized in the Cardiology Department of the Rehabilitation Hospital Cluj-Napoca, using the PCR amplification method. 43 patients were diagnosed with heart failure [NYHA III-IV class], and 40 subjects without cardiovascular disease (control group). The NT-proBNP and the presence of cardiovascular risk factors were assessed.

Results. Heart failure etiology was IHD in 60.46 % of patients. The average value of NT-pro BNP was 2991.24 ± 2034.6 pg/ml. As it was expected, HF patients presented low lipid levels: total cholesterol = 162.36 ± 38.28mg/dl, LDL-Cholesterol = 104.88 ± 27.60mg/dl, triglycerides= 109.12 ± 55.84mg/dl, HDL-Co= 35.68 ± 9.55mg/dl. A/G renin genetic polymorphism [with pathogenic potential] in heart failure patients was of 60.46% (homozygote 4.65% and heterozygote 55.81%). Conversely, pathogenic mutations were found only in 38.46% of hypertensive patients, but also in 55.88% and 22.22% patients with obesity/overweight and diabetes. The heterozygote form was found in only 37.5% of control subjects.

Conclusion. This study showed no involvement of A/G renin polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of HF.
IL-17, IL-6 and IFN-γ in systemic sclerosis patients
Authors: Bălănescu Paul , Lădaru Anca , Bălănescu Eugenia , Nicolau Adriana , Băicuş C. , Dan Gh.A.
Published: October 2015

Background. Systemic sclerosis (Ssc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by cutaneous and visceral fibrosis and its pathogenesis is incompletely understood. T helper cells are key regulators of the immune response and they seem to be involved in Ssc clinical manifestations. The aim of the study is to determine key cytokines secreted by Th1 (IFN-γ), Th2 (IL-6) and Th17 (IL-17) in Ssc patients and correlate them with specific manifestations of Ssc patients.

Material and methods. 35 consecutive Ssc patients and 20 age and sex matched controls were recruited. Serum IL-17, IFN-γ and IL-6 were determined using ELISA method.

Results. Serum IL-17 and IL-6 levels were not significantly different in Ssc patients and controls. Serum IFN-γ levels were higher in Ssc patients when compared to controls. Higher serum IFN-γ levels associated with pulmonary hypertension. After adjusting for gender and age, IL-17 levels remained independently associated with some clinical manifestations of Ssc patients (telangiectasia and high activity score of Ssc).

Conclusion. Th17 and Th1 cell responses are active in Ssc patients as their cytokines associated with higher disease activity scores and pulmonary manifestations. Th17 and Th1 specific activity and homing within Ssc patients still needs to be defined and determined in order to target them as potential future therapeutic targets in Ssc patients.
Factors Influencing Complication Rates at Colonic Polypectomy: A Prospective Study from a Tertiary-Referral Center
Authors: Voiosu Th. , Busuioc B. , Voiosu A. , Bengus Andreea , Rimbas M. , Dinu Roxana , Mateescu B. , Negreanu L.
Published: October 2015

Background and aims. Colon polypectomy decreases the incidence of colorectal cancer and related mortality. Several factors such as the size, location and type of polyp as well as endoscopist experience have been shown to correlate with the risk of ensuing procedure-related complications. This study aims to evaluate the impact of polyp and endoscopist-related factors on the rate of postpolypectomy complication in a real-life setting.

Methods. During the study period all polypectomies performed in our unit were reported on a standard form that included data on polyp type (flat, sessile, pedunculated), size, location in the colon, resection method, endoscopist volume and procedure-related complications arising up to 30 days. The main outcome was the complication rate of polypectomies. The factors that associated with a higher risk of complications were assessed on univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results. 244 polyp resections from 95 patients were included in the analysis. 199 polyps were resected by low-volume endoscopists (44.7%) and 135 polypectomies were performed by highvolume endoscopists (55.3%). On multivariate analysis only polyp size correlated with the risk of procedure-related complications.

Conclusion. Polyp size is the most important risk factor for procedure-related complications. Both high and low-volume endoscopists have a low overall rate of serious complications.
Four years Follow-up of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Rusu F. , Dumitraşcu Dan L.
Published: October 2015

There is little data on the long term evolution of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and of associated conditions. We therefore studied the evolution of IBS patients in a single tertiary center during a long interval of time.

Methods. We carried out a retrospective study based on the survey of patients records. We analyzed the records of symptoms, therapy, associated diseases, as consigned at follow-up visits for an interval of 4 years in average (2008-2011).

Results. A cohort of 114 patients with IBS diagnosed based on Rome III criteria were included (29 men and 85 women), age 19-85 years (mean age: 43.45 years). Urban patients were predominant. The main three symptoms were: abdominal pain, bowel disorders (constipation, diarrhea) and bloating. IBS - constipation (IBS - C) is associated with a favorable course of symptoms (increasing the number of stools, decrease intensity of abdominal pain and bloating) after treatment and IBS - diarrhea (IBS - D) is associated with variable symptoms after treatment (p = 0.031). Using trimebutin or mebeverin in association with other drugs for one month correlates with a favorable evolution of symptoms after treatment and monotherapy is associated with fluctuating symptoms ( p< 0.001). Favorable symptoms are associated with the use of probiotics in combination, but not in monotherapy (p< 0.001). Favorable evolution of symptoms is also associated with the use of anxiolytics in combination. Persistence of symptoms after treatment was correlated with the presence or absence of depression. The absence of depression was correlated with a favorable evolution of symptoms (p = 0.005). IBS-C is associated at limit (marginal significance) with hemorrhoidal disease (p = 0.56). 33 patients (29%) - received monotherapy (trimebutin or mebeverin or probiotics); 81 patients (71%) - received combined therapy: (trimebutin or mebeverin or probiotics) + anxiolytics or proton pump inhibitors (PPI) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAI) or spasmolitics. The most common associated diseases observed in patients with IBS were: depression (27.19%), dyslipidemia (25.43%), hemorrhoidal disease (22.80%) and fibromyalgia (21%).

Conclusions. The highest response rate was obtained with trimebutin or mebeverin + anxiolitics + probiotics. The most frequent disease associated with IBS was depression. Other diseases with a high incidence: dyslipidemia, hemorrhoidal disease and fibromyalgia. Further studies are needed to analyze the link between IBS and some associated diseases.
Multiple Histological Subtypes of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans Occurring in the Same Tumor
Authors: Socoliuc C. , Zurac Sabina , Andrei R. , Stăniceanu Florica
Published: October 2015

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) represents a low-grade cutaneous sarcoma which may have different histological aspects, presenting as a fibrosarcomatous, pigmented, juvenile, myxoid, atrophic, sclerosing or myoid lesion. Some of these subtypes may occur isolated or in association with one of the others creating hybrid lesions. We present the case of a 66 years old woman having a 4 cm diameter tumor located on the abdominal wall. Histopathological examination of the resection specimen revealed areas of typical DFSP associated with fibrosarcomatous transformation, myoid and myxoid areas. Also, focally, pleomorphic tumor cells and foreign-body type multinucleated giant cells were observed. Immunostains revealed CD34 positivity in typical DFSP and myxoid areas with negative staining of some of the tumor cells in fibrosarcomatous areas and negative staining of myoid areas. Smooth muscle actin was positive in myoid areas. The nature of myoid fascicles in DFSP is a matter of debate, being uncertain whether these represent a type of tumor differentiation or a reactive myoid proliferation. In this particular case, finding the association of myoid cells with blood vessel walls sustains their reactive nature. We present the morphological aspects of the different areas of the tumor with emphasis on differential diagnostic problems and clinical implications.
Problems of Differential Diagnosis in Melanoma Arising from Blue Naevus
Authors: Andrei R. , Zurac Sabina , Socoliu C. , Mandisodza P. , Staniceanu Florica
Published: October 2015

Melanoma arising from blue naevus is an exceedingly rare variant of melanoma. Most of the cases are located in head and neck area, with scalp the most affected site. This type of melanoma develops on blue naevus or resembles blue naevus, most frequently cellular blue naevus. We present the case of a 52 years old female diagnosed with a pigmented melanoma of the scalp, with maximum tumoral thickness of 6.8 mm and invasion of the hypodermis, highly resembling cellular blue naevus. All criteria of malignancy were present: prominent nuclear pleomorphism, infiltrative pattern, tumoral necrosis, high mitotic rate (11 mitoses/mm2) with atypical mitosis and high Ki67 index. No lymph node or distant metastases were identified at presentation.

Because of the rarity of cases, histopathological diagnosis can be difficult, differential diagnosis with blue naevi, atypical blue naevi or metastatic melanoma being the most challenging problems. Prognosis is given by tumoral thickness, frequently being more than 4 mm.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Small Intestinal Microflora. What We Do Know?
Authors: Moraru Ioana G. , Moraru A.G. , Dumitraşcu D.L.
Published: October 2015

Irritable bowel syndrome, one of the most common functional gastro intestinal disorders all over the world is considered to have a multi factorial pathogenesis. Recently more and more studies are focusing on the changes that take place in the micro biota of patients with irritable bowel syndrome, underlining the bacterial role in this pathogenesis. As a consequence, bacterial overgrowth, along with intestinal dysmotility, altered brain-gut axis and genetic factors are considered part of this pathophysiology. This report intends to summarize the actual knowledge on irritable bowel syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome, from details on the epidemiology, clinical manifestation, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment to details on the relationship between these two syndromes.
On decomposition of k-tridiagonal ℓ-Toeplitz
matrices and its applications
Authors: Ohashi A. , Sogabe T. , Usuda T.S.
Published: October 2015

We consider a k-tridiagonal ℓ-Toeplitz matrix as one of generalizations of a tridiagonal Toeplitz
matrix. In the present paper, we provide a decomposition of the matrix under a certain condition. By the
decomposition, the matrix is easily analyzed since one only needs to analyze the small matrix obtained from
the decomposition. Using the decomposition, eigenpairs and arbitrary integer powers of the matrix are easily
shown as applications.
Factorizations for q-Pascal matrices of two variables
Authors: Ernst Thomas
Published: October 2015

In this second article on q-Pascal matrices, we show how the previous factorizations by the summation
matrices and the so-called q-unit matrices extend in a natural way to produce q-analogues of Pascal
matrices of two variables by Z. Zhang and M. Liu as follows

We also find two different matrix products for
Contrastive Collostructional Analysis: Causative Constructions in English and French
Authors: Gilquin Gaëtanelle
Published: October 2015

This paper offers a contrastive collostructional analysis of English and French periphrastic causative constructions withmake/fairein academic writing. Using data from the British National Corpus (for English) and from Scientext (for French), it investigates the interaction between the constructions and their non-finite verb slot. The (simple and distinctive) collexemes strongly attracted to themakeand/orfairecausative constructions are grouped into semantic classes, which are compared and help identify the typical meaning(s) of each construction. It appears that the English construction particularly attracts non-volitional verbs describing mental processes and (stimulus subject) perception, while the French construction preferentially attracts verbs of (dis)appearance and verbs expressing a change of state or location. These results contribute to situating the two constructions differently on the conceptual map of causation.
American Punitiveness and Mass Incarceration
Authors: Fondacaro Mark R. , O'Toole Megan J.
Published: October 2015

A recent National Academy of Sciences Report entitled, “The growth of incarceration in the United States: Exploring causes and consequences,” examined the drivers of the fourfold increase in incarceration rates in the United States and provided a firm recommendation for significant reduction in incarceration rates (Travis, Western, & Redburn, 2014). Policy makers representing the entire political spectrum are now publicly airing their views on the need for reform. Although public sentiment is generally favorably disposed toward reform in the abstract, when confronted with specific examples of crime, they tend to favor more punitive, retributive responses to crime. Retributive justifications for punishment that are deeply ingrained in our culture and our legal system, as well as our biological and psychological make-up, are a major impediment to constructive reform efforts. However, recent advances in research across neurobiological, psychological, and social levels of analysis suggest that following our retributive impulses to guide legal decision making and criminal justice policy is not only costly and ineffective in reducing crime, but unjust and increasingly difficult to justify morally. This article will draw on a body of research anchored in social ecological models of human behavior to argue for more forward-looking, consequentialist responses to crime that aim at the individual prevention of criminal behavior in the least restrictive and most cost-effective manner at both the front and back ends of our criminal justice system.
Restorative Justice
Authors: Saulnier Alana , Sivasubramaniam Diane
Published: October 2015

As the popularity of restorative procedures increases, it is important to reflect on what we do and do not know about restorative justice, in order to enhance the effectiveness of restorative practices. In particular, we know little about the mechanisms that encourage success in restorative procedures. This article reviews research examining how, why, and for whom restorative procedures work. We consider how restorative processes differ from more traditional forms of retributive justice, and review the empirical research on factors driving people's perceptions of and responses to restorative justice. Through this overview of the existing knowledge base regarding why and for whom restorative procedures work, we draw attention to gaps in the restorative justice literature. We highlight the need for more focused research in understudied areas—in particular, we discuss the need for further development of experimental methods in restorative justice research—which will enable restorative justice scholars to develop more effective procedures that complement existing legal processes.
Inference of Super-exponential Human Population Growth via Efficient Computation of the Site Frequency Spectrum for Generalized Models
Authors: Gao Feng , Keinan Alon
Published: October 2015

The site frequency spectrum (SFS) and other genetic summary statistics are at the heart of many population genetic studies. Previous studies have shown that human populations have undergone a recent epoch of fast growth in effective population size. These studies assumed that growth is exponential, and the ensuing models leave an excess amount of extremely rare variants. This suggests that human populations might have experienced a recent growth with speed faster than exponential. Recent studies have introduced a generalized growth model where the growth speed can be faster or slower than exponential. However, only simulation approaches were available for obtaining summary statistics under such generalized models. In this study, we provide expressions to accurately and efficiently evaluate the SFS and other summary statistics under generalized models, which we further implement in a publicly available software. Investigating the power to infer deviation of growth from being exponential, we observed that adequate sample sizes facilitate accurate inference; e.g., a sample of 3000 individuals with the amount of data expected from exome sequencing allows observing and accurately estimating growth with speed deviating by ≥10% from that of exponential. Applying our inference framework to data from the NHLBI Exome Sequencing Project, we found that a model with a generalized growth epoch fits the observed SFS significantly better than the equivalent model with exponential growth (P-value =3.85×10−6). The estimated growth speed significantly deviates from exponential (P-value ≪10−12), with the best-fit estimate being of growth speed 12% faster than exponential.
Tools for Targeted Genome Engineering of EstablishedDrosophilaCell Lines
Authors: Cherbas Lucy , Hackney Jennifer , Gong Lei , Salzer Claire , Mauser Eric , Zhang Dayu , Cherbas Peter
Published: October 2015

We describe an adaptation of φC31 integrase–mediated targeted cassette exchange for use in Drosophila cell lines. Single copies of an attP-bounded docking platform carrying a GFP-expression marker, with or without insulator elements flanking the attP sites, were inserted by P-element transformation into the Kc167 and Sg4 cell lines; each of the resulting docking-site lines carries a single mapped copy of one of the docking platforms. Vectors for targeted substitution contain a cloning cassette flanked by attB sites. Targeted substitution occurs by integrase-mediated substitution between the attP sites (integrated) and the attB sites (vector). We describe procedures for isolating cells carrying the substitutions and for eliminating the products of secondary off-target events. We demonstrate the technology by integrating a cassette containing a Cu2+-inducible mCherry marker, and we report the expression properties of those lines. When compared with clonal lines made by traditional transformation methods, which lead to the illegitimate insertion of tandem arrays, targeted insertion lines give more uniform expression, lower basal expression, and higher induction ratios. Targeted substitution, though intricate, affords results that should greatly improve comparative expression assays—a major emphasis of cell-based studies.
Aid, power, and grievances: Lessons for war and peace from rural Afghanistan
Authors: Karell Daniel
Published: October 2015

Recent studies present contrasting findings on how reconstruction and development aid affects security in wartime contexts. Some research has found that aid projects decrease violent incidences, while other work has found both no effect and suggestions of a positive relationship. In an effort to resolve the mixed empirical picture, this article examines the complex intra-communal dynamics spurred by the distribution of aid in rural Afghanistan. Drawing on original interviews conducted in a community of Majarh district, Helmand province, the analysis indicates that development aid helps to elevate previously relatively less powerful individuals into positions of community leadership. This newly generated class of local leadership subsequently development relationships to the community that differ from their predecessors since their social position is rooted in new sources of power. As a result, intra-community tension increases. These findings help to specify the conditions under which the delivery of aid does not help to win hearts and minds and potentially promotes conflict. In addition, the analysis underscores how consideration of antecedent social conditions and temporal processes can help further refine our understanding of the wartime relationship between aid and security. [JEL codes: D74, O53]
¿Los Mejores Perfumes Vienen en Envases Pequeños?: Potencial de las Intervenciones Breves en el Contexto Educativo
Authors: Barrera Madeleine , Chaux Enrique , Trujillo Daniela
Published: October 2015

Recientemente se han desarrollado intervenciones escolares breves basadas en teorías motivacionales y de psicología social. Estas intervenciones, algunas de solamente 15 minutos, han obtenido resultados positivos a largo plazo sobre dominios como el desempeño académico y la convivencia escolar. Este artículo hace una revisión de sus objetivos, características, fundamentos teóricos, evaluaciones y condiciones necesarias para su diseño e implementación. En general, el objetivo de estas intervenciones breves es transformar creencias, pensamientos o sentimientos de un segmento particular de la población estudiantil, considerado en riesgo. Además, buscan romper círculos viciosos al intervenir en momentos específicos de procesos recursivos. Finalmente, esta revisión analiza sus alcances, implicaciones y limitaciones, y sugiere futuras investigaciones.
Desarrollo de un Cuestionario Breve para la Medición del Comportamiento Arriesgado en Peatones Adolescentes
Authors: Herrero-Fernández David
Published: October 2015

El objetivo del presente estudio fue la creación de un cuestionario autoinformado breve para valorar los comportamientos arriesgados en peatones. Para ello se contó con una muestra de 351 personas que completaron los 13 ítems iniciales del instrumento y que llevaron a cabo una tarea de percepción de riesgo a modo de medida de validez. El análisis factorial confirmatorio verificó el ajuste satisfactorio del modelo final de 8 ítems en un único factor, que alcanzó una consistencia interna satisfactoria (α=.75). Posteriormente los análisis evidenciaron la validez convergente y discriminante del cuestionario, con base en las correlaciones obtenidas con las medidas de percepción de riesgo administradas.
Estratégias Utilizadas pelos Trabalhadores para Enfrentar o Desemprego
Authors: Bendassolli Pedro F. , Coelho-Lima Fellipe , Carlotto Mary Sandra , Santos Nüssle Flora , Ferreira Ila Maria
Published: October 2015

Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar as estratégias utilizadas pelos trabalhadores para enfrentar a situação de desemprego. Investigaram-se estratégias objetivas de sobrevivência e de reinserção profissional, e subjetivas, relacionadas com o enfrentamento da situação (coping). Participaram 400 trabalhadores desempregados que iam ao Sistema Nacional de Emprego (sine) de uma cidade do nordeste do Brasil. Aplicou-se um questionário estruturado com perguntas sobre estratégias objetivas e uma escala de enfrentamento. Os dados foram analisados por meio de uma análise fatorial confirmatória. As estratégias de sobrevivência e de reinserção profissional estão baseadas na ativação das redes de amigos e de familiares. Os fatores de enfrentamento predominantes foram a religiosidade e o planejamento. Níveis educativos menores foram preditores de uma maior utilização de estratégias religiosas. Os resultados contribuem para melhorar a compreensão do fenômeno do desemprego no nordeste do Brasil.
Healthcare plans and consumer perceptions of healthcare institutions
Authors: Arboleda Arango Ana Maria
Published: October 2015

Objective This study evaluates the effect of healthcare insurance plans on consumer perception of trust in a healthcare institution, and the mediating effect of trust on consumer loyalty towards an institution.

Method The study was conducted at a healthcare institution in Colombia where a total of 841 patients responded to a questionnaire.

Results A structural equation model shows that individuals who have a pre-paid healthcare plan have a stronger evaluation of trust compared to those who hold a regulated healthcare plan (i.e., subsidized and contributory plans). In turn, trust positively predicts consumers’ loyalty towards an institution. The relationship between the patients’ healthcare plans and their degree of loyalty towards healthcare institutions is completely mediated by their perception of trust towards the institution. Discussion A greater perception of trust is explained by having a medical plan that provides consumers with more flexibility, allowing them to select their health provider at a premium price. Although health institutions do not control healthcare regimes, these affect consumers’ trust in their service. Institutions cannot modify characteristics of the regime, but they can promote a trustworthy environment to strengthen consumers’ loyalty to the institution.
La década de acción en seguridad vial en Medellín, Colombia, a 2015
Authors: Cabrera Arana Gustavo Alonso , Velásquez Osorio Natalia
Published: October 2015

La seguridad vial-SV es dimensión clave del estudio e intervención de la movilidad humana. Es hace décadas prioridad en salud pública internacional y determinante del desarrollo de comunidades y naciones. La declaratoria de una crisis global de SV en los años 90 del siglo XX por las Naciones Unidas impulsó los procesos sociales, políticos y técnicos para proponer la Década de Acción en Seguridad Vial–DASV 2010-2020. La DASV tiene un plan de acción global estructurado en cinco pilares, el primero referido a la gestión institucional de la SV. Este artículo describe antecedentes, marcos, evidencias y los pobres efectos de la gestión del primer quinquenio de la DASV en Medellín, Colombia, al año 2015.
Indacenodithiophene-benzothiadiazole organic field-effect transistors with gravure-printed semiconductor and dielectric on plastic
Authors: Higgins Stuart G. , Muir Beinn V. O. , Heeney Martin , Campbell Alasdair J.
Published: October 2015

We demonstrate the gravure printing of a high-performance indacenodithiophene (IDT) copolymer, indacenodithiophene—benzothiadiazole (C16IDT-BT), onto self-aligned organic field-effect transistor architectures on flexible plastic substrates. We observed that the combination of a gravure-printed dielectric with gravure-printed semiconductor yielded devices with higher mean-effective mobility than devices manufactured using photolithographically patterned dielectric. Peak mobilities of μ = 0.1 cm2 V−1 s−1 were measured, and exceed previous reports for non-printed C16IDT-BT on non-flexible silicon substrates.
Radial Junction Architecture: A New Approach to Stable and Highly Efficient Silicon Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Misra S. , Foldyna M. , Florea I. , Yu L. , Roca i Cabarrocas P.
Published: October 2015

Incorporation of properly designed nanostructures in solar cells improves light trapping and consequently their power conversion efficiencies. Due to its unique structure, a silicon nanowire (SiNW) matrix provides excellent light trapping and thus offers a promising approach for cost-effective, stable and efficient silicon thin film photovoltaics. Moreover, by decoupling the light absorption and carrier collection directions, radial junction solar cells built around the SiNWs allow the use of very thin active layers. As a matter of fact, radial PIN junctions with 9.2% power conversion efficiency have already been demonstrated on glass substrates with only 100 nm thick intrinsic hydrogenated amorphous silicon layers. The most straightforward way to further improve the short circuit current density is to use an active layer with a lower band gap. In this work, the performances of devices with two different low band gap materials, e.g., hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon (μc-Si:H) and hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium alloy (a-SiGe:H) are presented. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a-SiGe:H radial junction solar cell.