bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENTRAP and its potential interaction with European networks
Authors: -Jaensch H. Tietze , Van Iseghem P. , Boucher L. , Dodaro A. , Fuks L. , Guisset J. P. , Koivuranta S. , Lierse C. , Neckel W. , Piña G. , Steyer S. , Van Velzen L. , del Cerro E. Vico
Published: December 2015

ENTRAP comprises a pan-European cooperation of leading scientific institutions and regulatory bodies in the field of nuclear-waste characterization and its quality assurance for the safe disposal of radioactive waste. Here, the scope of this cooperation is presented and explained and links or interfaces for a potential collaboration with partners fulfilling tasks of IDG-TP are pursued.
Integrating societal concerns into research and development (R&D) on geological disposal at the national level
Authors: Martell Meritxell , Van Berendoncks Kris
Published: December 2015

The European InSOTEC project aims to identify remaining socio-technical challenges for the implementation of geological disposal of radioactive waste in European countries. Geological disposal has been recognized as the reference solution in radioactive waste management by the European Commission, which has set up the IGD-TP as a platform to foster exchanges between authorities on research and development (R&D) on this topic. This paper turns to the national level to analyse national R&D programmes on radioactive waste management (RWM) and particularly, geological disposal (GD) in order to assess to what extent there are national platforms that broaden interaction beyond an expert community. For this, we focus on identifying those practices and structures that reflect a degree of inter- and transdisciplinarity in the design and implementation of national R&D programmes. Our argument, embedded in the Science and Technology Studies (STS) literature, is that the way GD is framed by the research and policy community has important implications for the processes of developing and governing a technology. From our empirical case studies, we will explore the extent to which social-science research is integrated and the way stakeholders may have an impact on the development of R&D programmes. Overall, including social science research as an integral part in R&D programmes on GD and fostering collaboration between different types of knowledge in the R&D agenda-setting phase may help in the consideration of GD as a socio-technical problem, where the social and the technical are inextricably linked.
Investigation of the attitudes, needs, and expectations of the Saligny community
Authors: Constantin A. , Constantin M. , Diaconu D.
Published: December 2015

Many countries encourage national forums for transparency, dialogue and participation with regards to radioactive waste disposal. However, the local actors (authorities, non-government organisations and the public) often note a lack of public participation in the decision making process. Civil society is often frustrated with its limited involvement in the consultative process. Participation is regulated by national laws and rules and the right to participate in environmental decision-making is covered by the Aarhus Convention. Continuous dialogue amongst stakeholders is seen as important in building sustainable solutions in radioactive waste management. In addition, understanding public concerns and needs can increase the trust between the partners and build confidence in the process.

Different national and local contexts have contributed to the development of quite a broad set of approaches and tools for stakeholder engagement. This paper describes the use of such tools in the engagement with the Saligny community in the siting process of a repository for low- and intermediate-level wastes in Romania. Some specific issues are highlighted such as: the low level of interest amongst the public in relation to long-term projects; over-estimation of benefits in comparison to the negative aspects of hosting a repository; lack of a coherent public voice; and a perceived lack of information on the project from the authorities and the implementer. The present study describes the setting up of the participatory approach to engage with the public and the different methods employed (including citizen juries, workshops, open days, etc.). A number of criteria were developed for evaluating the effectiveness of these methods particularly with regards to their adaptability to a local context such as Saligny. The paper then focuses on the results of one of these methods – the use of focus groups covering a cross-section of civil society – including members of the general public, a group of professionals and a group of local councillors. The study has resulted in a number of recommendations to the implementer on how to build a new programme for public participation.
Geological repositories: scientific priorities and potential high-technology transfer from the space and physics sectors
Authors: Direito Susana O. L. , Clark Samantha , Cousins Claire , Fujita Yoshiko , Gluyas Jon , Harley Simon , Holmes Richard J. , Hutchinson Ian B. , Kudryavtsev Vitaly A. , Lloyd Jon , Main Ian G. , Naylor Mark , Payler Sam , Smith Nick , Spooner Neil J.C. , Telfer Sam , Thompson Lee F. , Wouters Katinka , Wragg Joanna , Cockell Charles
Published: December 2015

The use of underground geological repositories, such as in radioactive waste disposal (RWD) and in carbon capture (widely known as Carbon Capture and Storage; CCS), constitutes a key environmental priority for the 21stcentury. Based on the identification of key scientific questions relating to the geophysics, geochemistry and geobiology of geodisposal of wastes, this paper describes the possibility of technology transfer from high-technology areas of the space exploration sector, including astrobiology, planetary sciences, astronomy, and also particle and nuclear physics, into geodisposal. Synergies exist between high technology used in the space sector and in the characterization of underground environments such as repositories, because of common objectives with respect to instrument miniaturization, low power requirements, durability under extreme conditions (in temperature and mechanical loads) and operation in remote or otherwise difficult to access environments.
LIN28B overexpression defines a novel fetal-like subgroup of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Helsmoortel Hetty H. , Bresolin Silvia , Lammens Tim , Cavé Hélène , Noellke Peter , Caye Aurélie , Ghazavi Farzaneh , de Vries Andrica , Hasle Henrik , Labarque Veerle , Masetti Riccardo , Stary Jan , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Philippé Jan , Van Roy Nadine , Benoit Yves , Speleman Frank , Niemeyer Charlotte , Flotho Christian , Basso Giuseppe , te Kronnie Geertruy , Van Vlierberghe Pieter , De Moerloose Barbara
Published: December 2015

Key Points

LIN28B is overexpressed in about half of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia patients and defines a novel fetal-like disease subgroup. LIN28B expression is correlated with high fetal hemoglobin levels and the absence of monosomy 7.
Acute kidney injury treated with renal replacement therapy and 5-year mortality after myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Lauridsen Marie Dam , Gammelager Henrik , Schmidt Morten , Rasmussen Thomas Bøjer , Shaw Richard E. , Bøtker Hans Erik , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Christiansen Christian Fynbo
Published: December 2015

Background

Myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock is frequently complicated by acute kidney injury. We examined the influence of acute kidney injury treated with renal replacement therapy (AKI-RRT) on risk of chronic dialysis and mortality, and assessed the role of comorbidity in patients with cardiogenic shock.

Methods

In this Danish cohort study conducted during 2005–2012, we used population-based medical registries to identify patients diagnosed with first-time myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock and assessed their AKI-RRT status. We computed the in-hospital mortality risk and adjusted relative risk. For hospital survivors, we computed 5-year cumulative risk of chronic dialysis accounting for competing risk of death. Mortality after discharge was computed with use of Kaplan-Meier methods. We computed 5-year hazard ratios for chronic dialysis and death after discharge, comparing AKI-RRT with non-AKI-RRT patients using a propensity score-adjusted Cox regression model.

Results

We identified 5079 patients with cardiogenic shock, among whom 13 % had AKI-RRT. The in-hospital mortality was 62 % for AKI-RRT patients, and 36 % for non-AKI-RRT patients. AKI-RRT remained associated with increased in-hospital mortality after adjustment for confounders (relative risk = 1.70, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.59–1.81). Among the 3059 hospital survivors, the 5-year risk of chronic dialysis was 11 % (95 % CI: 8–16 %) for AKI-RRT patients, and 1 % (95 % CI: 0.5–1 %) for non-AKI-RRT patients (adjusted hazard ratio: 15.9 (95 % CI: 8.7–29.3). The 5-year mortality was 43 % (95 % CI: 37–53 %) for AKI-RRT patients compared with 29 % (95 % CI: 29–31 %) for non-AKI-RRT patients. The adjusted 5-year hazard ratio for death was 1.55 (95 % CI: 1.22–1.96) for AKI-RRT patients compared with non-AKI-RRT patients. In patients with comorbidity, absolute mortality increased while relative impact of AKI-RRT on mortality decreased.

Conclusion

AKI-RRT following myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock predicted elevated short-term mortality and long-term risk of chronic dialysis and mortality. The impact of AKI-RRT declined with increasing comorbidity suggesting that intensive treatment of AKI-RRT should be accompanied with optimized treatment of comorbidity when possible.
Microstate connectivity alterations in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Hatz Florian , Hardmeier Martin , Benz Nina , Ehrensperger Michael , Gschwandtner Ute , Rüegg Stephan , Schindler Christian , Monsch Andreas U. , Fuhr Peter
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Electroencephalography (EEG) microstates and brain network are altered in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and discussed as potential biomarkers for AD. Microstates correspond to defined states of brain activity, and their connectivity patterns may change accordingly. Little is known about alteration of connectivity in microstates, especially in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment with stable or improving cognition within 30 months (aMCI).

Methods

Thirty-five outpatients with aMCI or mild dementia (mean age 77 ± 7 years, 47 % male, Mini Mental State Examination score ≥24) had comprehensive neuropsychological and clinical examinations. Subjects with cognitive decline over 30 months were allocated to the AD group, subjects with stable or improving cognition to the MCI-stable group. Results of neuropsychological testing at baseline were summarized in six domain scores. Resting state EEG was recorded with 256 electrodes and analyzed using TAPEEG. Five microstates were defined and individual data fitted. After phase transformation, the phase lag index (PLI) was calculated for the five microstates in every subject. Networks were reduced to 22 nodes for statistical analysis.

Results

The domain score for verbal learning and memory and the microstate segmented PLI between the left centro-lateral and parieto-occipital regions in the theta band at baseline differentiated significantly between the groups. In the present sample, they separated in a logistic regression model with a 100 % positive predictive value, 60 % negative predictive value, 100 % specificity and 77 % sensitivity between AD and MCI-stable.

Conclusions

Combining neuropsychological and quantitative EEG test results allows differentiation between subjects with aMCI remaining stable and subjects with aMCI deteriorating over 30 months.
Single-molecule optical genome mapping of a human HapMap and a colorectal cancer cell line
Authors: Teo Audrey S. M. , Verzotto Davide , Yao Fei , Nagarajan Niranjan , Hillmer Axel M.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have changed our understanding of the variability of the human genome. However, the identification of genome structural variations based on NGS approaches with read lengths of 35–300 bases remains a challenge. Single-molecule optical mapping technologies allow the analysis of DNA molecules of up to 2 Mb and as such are suitable for the identification of large-scale genome structural variations, and for de novo genome assemblies when combined with short-read NGS data. Here we present optical mapping data for two human genomes: the HapMap cell line GM12878 and the colorectal cancer cell line HCT116.

Findings:

High molecular weight DNA was obtained by embedding GM12878 and HCT116 cells, respectively, in agarose plugs, followed by DNA extraction under mild conditions. Genomic DNA was digested with KpnI and 310,000 and 296,000 DNA molecules (≥150 kb and 10 restriction fragments), respectively, were analyzed per cell line using the Argus optical mapping system. Maps were aligned to the human reference by OPTIMA, a new glocal alignment method. Genome coverage of 6.8× and 5.7× was obtained, respectively; 2.9× and 1.7× more than the coverage obtained with previously available software.

Conclusions:

Optical mapping allows the resolution of large-scale structural variations of the genome, and the scaffold extension of NGS-based de novo assemblies. OPTIMA is an efficient new alignment method; our optical mapping data provide a resource for genome structure analyses of the human HapMap reference cell line GM12878, and the colorectal cancer cell line HCT116.
On the robustness of minimum wage effects: geographically-disparate trends and job growth equations
Authors: Addison John T. , Blackburn McKinley L. , Cotti Chad D.
Published: December 2015

Recent attempts to incorporate spatial heterogeneity in minimum-wage employment models have been targeted for using overly simplistic trend controls and for neglecting the potential impact of wage minima on employment growth. This paper investigates whether such considerations call into question findings of statistically insignificant employment effects reported in the literature for an archetypal low-wage sector in the United States: restaurants and bars. Understanding this relationship goes to the heart of the policy debate surrounding minimum wages and, hence, is critical to investigate carefully. Our results conclude that a focus on employment levels is appropriate for this sector and, further, that the deployment of nonlinear trend controls does not dislodge prior research which finds weak support for the existence of adverse minimum-wage employment effects on employment.

JEL Classification: J23, J38
Monitoring, endogenous comparative advantage, and immigration
Authors: Qirjo Dhimitri
Published: December 2015

We propose a theory of free movement of goods and labor between two economies in the presence of moral hazard. Each country produces two final goods where the productive efforts of workers cannot be perfectly observed, or verified only in the complex industry. We show that national institutional quality and the system of the early childhood care and education determine the pattern of international trade. However, individuals’ decisions to emigrate depend only on the national institutional quality, where the country with more developed institutions serves as the host country of immigrants. We conclude that international labor movement promotes international trade.

JEL classification: B52, I21, F10, F16, F22, J24.
Technique modifications for septodermoplasty: An illustrative case
Authors: Bastianelli Mark , Kilty Shaun J.
Published: December 2015

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant disease that results in telangiectasia of the sinonasal tract, gastro-intestinal tract as well as possible arteriovenous malformations of the lung, liver and brain. One of the most common disease manifestations of HHT is epistaxis. Severe recurrent epistaxis necessitating iron therapy and blood transfusion is often managed with septodermoplasty. Its initial description was as an open surgical technique requiring nasal packing.

Case presentation

We describe a modified approach to septodermoplasty done completely endoscopically and without nasal packing for a patient with severe epistaxis due to HHT.

Conclusion

The described technique modifications for the presented case allowed for same day discharge following surgery, complete take of the skin graft and resultant epistaxis control that ended thepatient's transfusion dependency. The merits of these modifications should be further evaluated in a clinical trial.
Rituximab Maintenance for a Maximum of 5 Years After Single-Agent Rituximab Induction in Follicular Lymphoma: Results of the Randomized Controlled Phase III Trial SAKK 35/03
Authors: Taverna Christian , Martinelli Giovanni , Hitz Felicitas , Mingrone Walter , Pabst Thomas , Cevreska Lidija , del Giglio Auro , Vanazzi Anna , Laszlo Daniele , Raats Johann , Rauch Daniel , Vorobiof Daniel A. , Lohri Andreas , Biaggi Rudolf Christine , Rondeau Stéphanie , Rusterholz Corinne , Heijnen Ingmar A.F.M. , Zucca Emanuele , Ghielmini Michele
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Rituximab maintenance therapy has been shown to improve progression-free survival in patients with follicular lymphoma; however, the optimal duration of maintenance treatment remains unknown.

Patients and Methods

Two hundred seventy patients with untreated, relapsed, stable, or chemotherapy-resistant follicular lymphoma were treated with four doses of rituximab monotherapy in weekly intervals (375 mg/m2). Patients achieving at least a partial response were randomly assigned to receive maintenance therapy with one infusion of rituximab every 2 months, either on a short-term schedule (four administrations) or a long-term schedule (maximum of 5 years or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity). The primary end point was event-free survival (EFS). Progression-free survival, overall survival (OS), and toxicity were secondary end points. Comparisons between the two arms were performed using the log-rank test for survival end points.

Results

One hundred sixty-five patients were randomly assigned to the short-term (n = 82) or long-term (n = 83) maintenance arms. Because of the low event rate, the final analysis was performed after 95 events had occurred, which was before the targeted event number of 99 had been reached. At a median follow-up period of 6.4 years, the median EFS was 3.4 years (95% CI, 2.1 to 5.3) in the short-term arm and 5.3 years (95% CI, 3.5 to not available) in the long-term arm (P = .14). Patients in the long-term arm experienced more adverse effects than did those in the short-term arm, with 76% v 50% of patients with at least one adverse event (P < .001), five versus one patient with grade 3 and 4 infections, and three versus zero patients discontinuing treatment because of unacceptable toxicity, respectively. There was no difference in OS between the two groups.

Conclusion

Long-term rituximab maintenance therapy does not improve EFS, which was the primary end point of this trial, or OS, and was associated with increased toxicity.
Prospective Study of 68Ga-DOTATATE Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for Detecting Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors and Unknown Primary Sites
Authors: Sadowski Samira M. , Neychev Vladimir , Millo Corina , Shih Joanna , Nilubol Naris , Herscovitch Peter , Pacak Karel , Marx Stephen J. , Kebebew Electron
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEPNETs) are increasing in incidence, and accurate staging is important for selecting the appropriate treatment. 68Ga-DOTATATE imaging is a promising approach for detecting GEPNETs and could help in selecting optimal therapeutic strategies. The aim of this study was to prospectively determine the clinical utility of 68Ga-DOTATATE positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) in detecting unknown primary and metastatic GEPNETs.

Patients and Methods

One hundred thirty-one patients were enrolled in a prospective study of patients undergoing 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, 111In-pentetreotide single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT and multiphasic CT scan, and/or magnetic resonance imaging in a blinded fashion with comprehensive biochemical testing. The primary outcome measure was the detection of lesions by each imaging study.

Results

68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT imaging detected 95.1% of lesions (95% CI, 92.4% to 96.8%) with an average maximum standardized uptake value of 65.4 ± 47 (range, 6.9 to 244), anatomic imaging detected 45.3% of lesions (95% CI, 37.9% to 52.9%), and 111In-pentetreotide SPECT/CT detected 30.9% of lesions (95% CI, 25.0% to 37.5%), with a significant difference between imaging modalities (P < .001). In four of 14 patients (28.6%), 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT found a previously unknown primary tumor, and detected primary GEPNET, lymph node, and distant metastases correctly in 72 of 113 lesions (63.7%) when compared with histopathology, with 22.1% and 38.9% detected by using 111In-pentetreotide SPECT/CT and anatomic imaging, respectively. On the basis of findings with 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, 43 of 131 patients (32.8%) had a change in management recommendation. In patients with carcinoid symptoms but negative biochemical testing, 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT detected lesions in 65.2% of patients, 40% of which were detected neither by anatomic imaging nor by 111In-pentetreotide SPECT/CT.

Conclusion

68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT imaging provides important information for accurate staging of GEPNETs and selection of appropriate treatment interventions even in the absence of biochemical evidence of disease in symptomatic patients.
Activin Decoy Receptor ActRIIB:Fc Lowers FSH and Therapeutically Restores Oocyte Yield, Prevents Oocyte Chromosome Misalignments and Spindle Aberrations, and Increases Fertility in Midlife Female SAMP8 Mice
Authors: Bernstein Lori R. , Mackenzie Amelia C. L. , Lee Se-Jin , Chaffin Charles L. , Merchenthaler István
Published: December 2015

Women of advanced maternal age (AMA) (age ≥ 35) have increased rates of infertility, miscarriages, and trisomic pregnancies. Collectively these conditions are called “egg infertility.” A root cause of egg infertility is increased rates of oocyte aneuploidy with age. AMA women often have elevated endogenous FSH. Female senescence-accelerated mouse-prone-8 (SAMP8) has increased rates of oocyte spindle aberrations, diminished fertility, and rising endogenous FSH with age. We hypothesize that elevated FSH during the oocyte's FSH-responsive growth period is a cause of abnormalities in the meiotic spindle. We report that eggs from SAMP8 mice treated with equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) for the period of oocyte growth have increased chromosome and spindle misalignments. Activin is a molecule that raises FSH, and ActRIIB:Fc is an activin decoy receptor that binds and sequesters activin. We report that ActRIIB:Fc treatment of midlife SAMP8 mice for the duration of oocyte growth lowers FSH, prevents egg chromosome and spindle misalignments, and increases litter sizes. AMA patients can also have poor responsiveness to FSH stimulation. We report that although eCG lowers yields of viable oocytes, ActRIIB:Fc increases yields of viable oocytes. ActRIIB:Fc and eCG cotreatment markedly reduces yields of viable oocytes. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that elevated FSH contributes to egg aneuploidy, declining fertility, and poor ovarian response and that ActRIIB:Fc can prevent egg aneuploidy, increase fertility, and improve ovarian response. Future studies will continue to examine whether ActRIIB:Fc works via FSH and/or other pathways and whether ActRIIB:Fc can prevent aneuploidy, increase fertility, and improve stimulation responsiveness in AMA women.
Twittering About Research: A Case Study of the World’s First Twitter Poster Competition
Authors: Randviir Edward P. , Illingworth Samuel M. , Baker Matthew J. , Cude Matthew , Banks Craig E.
Published: December 2015

The Royal Society of Chemistry held, to our knowledge, the world’s first Twitter conference at 9am on February 5 th, 2015. The conference was a Twitter-only conference, allowing researchers to upload academic posters as tweets, replacing a physical meeting. This paper reports the details of the event and discusses the outcomes, such as the potential for the use of social media to enhance scientific communication at conferences. In particular, the present work argues that social media outlets such as Twitter broaden audiences, speed up communication, and force clearer and more concise descriptions of a researcher’s work. The benefits of poster presentations are also discussed in terms of potential knowledge exchange and networking. This paper serves as a proof-of-concept approach for improving both the public opinion of the poster, and the enhancement of the poster through an innovative online format that some may feel more comfortable with, compared to face-to-face communication.
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Любашиц Валентин , Lyubashits Valentin , Мамычев Алексей , Mamychev Aleksey
Published: December 2015

The article analyzes the concept of the state apparatus, the role of parliaments in the political life of society and the state. The basis of the construction and functioning of the state machinery of any country on objective and subjective factors. The alienation of people from property and political power that has occurred in our country, is the initial state, generating the need for democracy as the need to overcome the old and new forms of alienation of power from society as a resolution of the conflict between the diversity of social and political interests of the subjects of political power and the possibilities of their embodiments of the structures and institutions of power.
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Липинский Дмитрий , Lipinskiy Dmitriy , Репетева Олеся , Repeteva Olesya
Published: December 2015

In the article deals with the essence of legal responsibility as an inter-institute of law, are signs of the corresponding institution, the classification of legal responsibility according to various criteria.
International legal regulation of responsibility for nuclear damage
Authors: Неклеёнова Алла
Published: December 2015

Awareness of the dangers connected with operation of nuclear installations induced the states to develop the measures of technical, legal character aimed at providing protection of life and health of the person from negative influence of radiation, guarantees of compensation of the damage caused as a result of nuclear incident. Special legal mechanisms of a civil liability for nuclear damage act on the international and national levels.
Legal bases of spiritual and moral and cultural education in Russia
Authors: Братановская Милена , Bratanovskaya Milena
Published: December 2015

право, образование, культура, религия, программы, международные договоры, равенство, свобода.
Methodological aspects of measuring mutual effect of project portfolio and company�s goals
Authors: ������  , Anshin Valeriy
Published: December 2015

The article considers the issues of improving the methodology of project portfolio management in the aspect of strengthening the relationship between objectives and projects of the company. Compliance indicators for targets and portfolio are proposed. The indicators are directed on integrated assessment of the achievement of the objectives.
Site-specific Nutrient Management for Lowland Rice in the Northern Savannah Zones of Ghana
Authors: Dogbe W , Sogbedji J. M , Buah S. S. J
Published: December 2015

A multi-location study was conducted to assess the nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) requirements of lowland rice (Oryza sativa L.) for a local variety Digang cultivated in the northern Savannahs of Ghana and offer site specific nutrient recommendations. Ten on-farm nutrient omission trials involving five rates of N, P and K combinations were conducted during 2010 cropping season in Sudan and Guinea Savannah agro-ecological zones. The treatments (kg/ha as N, P2O5 and K2O) comprised 0-0-0 (control), 0-90-90 (zero N), 90-0-90 (zero P), 90-90-0 (zero K), 90-90-90 (NPK). Grain yields were increased by applying fertilizer N, P and K in sufficient amounts (90 N, 90 P2O5 and 90 K2O kg/ha) to overcome deficiencies and maintain soil fertility. Nitrogen was a major limiting nutrient in the irrigated and rain fed lowlands in the northern Savannahs of Ghana. The N-limited yields varied between 832 and 1875 kg/ha, suggesting variability of N supplying capacity of the experimental plots. The impact of omitting N was different among the locations with the irrigated lowlands ecosystems in the Sudan Savannah that recorded the highest yield loss due to N omission and Guinea Savannah the least. Higher level of fertilizer N (118 kg/ha) was required in the irrigated lowland in the Sudan Savannah to achieve maximum yield compared with 52 to 79 kg N/ha in the rain fed lowlands of Guinea Savannah. Potash fertilizers have little effect on yield, especially in irrigated lowlands in the Sudan Savannah. Grain yield reductions due to nutrient deficiencies were more severe in the Upper West region than in Upper East region and Northern region. Higher levels of N in irrigated lowland ecosystems in the Sudan Savannah and higher P and K may be required in Upper West region in the Guinea Savannah than recommended for achieving higher yields on a sustainable basis.
Identification of Males with Cryptic Fragile X Alleles by Methylation-Specific Quantitative Melt Analysis
Authors: Aliaga Solange M , Slater Howard R , Francis David , Du Sart Desiree , Li Xin , Amor David J , Alliende Angelica M , Santa Maria Lorena , Faundes Víctor , Morales Paulina , Trigo Cesar , Salas Isabel , Curotto Bianca , Godler David E
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

FMR1 full mutations (FMs) (CGG expansion >200) in males mosaic for a normal (<45 CGG) or gray-zone (GZ) (45–54 CGG) allele can be missed with the standard 2-step fragile X syndrome (FXS) testing protocols, largely because the first-line PCR tests showing a normal or GZ allele are not reflexed to the second-line test that can detect FM.

METHODS

We used methylation-specific quantitative melt analysis (MS-QMA) to determine the prevalence of cryptic FM alleles in 2 independent cohorts of male patients (994 from Chile and 2392 from Australia) referred for FXS testing from 2006 to 2013. All MS-QMA–positive cases were retested with commercial triplet primed PCR, methylation-sensitive Southern blot, and a methylation-specific EpiTYPER-based test.

RESULTS

All 38 FMs detected with the standard 2-step protocol were detected with MS-QMA. However, MS-QMA identified methylation mosaicism in an additional 15% and 11% of patients in the Chilean and Australian cohorts, respectively, suggesting the presence of a cryptic FM. Of these additional patients, 57% were confirmed to carry cryptic expanded alleles in blood, buccal mucosa, or saliva samples. Further confirmation was provided by identifying premutation (CGG 55–199) alleles in mothers of probands with methylation-sensitive Southern blot. Neurocognitive assessments showed that low-level mosaicism for cryptic FM alleles was associated with cognitive impairment or autism.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial number of mosaic FM males who have cognitive impairment or autism are not diagnosed with the currently recommended 2-step testing protocol and can be identified with MS-QMA as a first-line test.
Ornithodoros (Alectorobius) puertoricensis (Ixodida: Argasidae) parasitizing exotic reptile pets in Panama
Authors: BERMUDEZ Sergio , MIRANDA Roberto J. , CLEGHORN John , VENZAL José M.
Published: December 2015

In this paper we report and discuss the finding of all the stages of Ornithodoros puertoricensis (Argasidae) parasitizing the exotic reptiles Varanus dumerilii, Python regius and P. bivittatus, and its presence in the reptiles’ terrariums in Panamá city.
Chilean 12th graders’ Attitudes towards English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Gómez Burgos Eric , Pérez Pérez Sandra
Published: December 2015

This article aims to provide the results of a research focusing on 12th graders’ attitudes towards English as a Foreign Language in two secondary schools in Puerto Montt, Chile. Attitude towards a language has been considered as an important factor that influences the process of learning a foreign language (Shams, 2008); for this reason, it is fundamental to identify students’ attitudes since positive attitudes towards English allow the students to have favourable orientation towards learning it (Karahan, 2007). Under this premise, this study corresponds to a case study that includes a quantitative method of data analysis. A survey of five dimensions was conducted amongst 154 students in order to measure their attitudes towards the target language. The results show that their attitudes towards English as a foreign language are favourable; however, the dimensions related to learning English, and English as a subject at school obtained unfavourable attitudes. 
Tejiendo memoria
Authors: Suarez Bautista Leidy Fernanda , Vargas Caro Andrea Carolina , Rayo Montealegre Carolina
Published: December 2015

El siguiente trabajo presenta los resultados de una investigación realizada en la ciudad de Bogotá sobre el desplazamiento forzado desde la reconstrucción narrativa de una víctima del conflicto armado en nuestro país teniendo en cuenta la importancia de la memoria en un escenario de posconflicto; dentro de la cual se tendrá como base el contexto geográfico  en el que se desarrollan los hechos relatados por la señora Claudia Estrada, así como los referentes teóricos que dan cuenta de los conceptos de desplazamiento forzado, narración y memoria histórica. Esta investigación se realiza en el marco de la asignatura Narraciones y Testimonios de Conflicto de la Licenciatura en Educación Básica con Énfasis en Humanidades y Lengua Castellana a la que pertenecemos.

 
A REVIEW OF CONFLICT MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES IN PROJECTS
Authors: Sudhakar Goparaju Purna
Published: December 2015

This paper finds the mostly occurring reasons for conflicts in projects and mostly used techniques to resolve the conflicts. Proposed a model of conflict management for projects. Total 105 reasons for conflicts in projects are identified from secondary research. From that top-10 reasons for conflicts in projects are founds based on number of references in the literature. They include Shared/Common Resources, Differences in Project Goal/Objective, Cultural Differences, Values Differences, Personality Issues, Differences in Technical Opinions/Approaches, Schedules, Costs, Administrative procedures, and Different Perceptions in the order of preference. Total 40 conflict resolution techniques in projects are identified based on through literature review. The most frequently used top -5 conflict resolution techniques in projects in the order of preference are Avoiding/Withdrawal, Compromising, Confronting/Problem Solving, Accommodating and Smoothing.
INDICATORS OF BUSINESS PERFORMANCE: A VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS OF THE FEDERAL FLUMINENSE UNIVERSITY
Authors: Rodrigues Vivian Magalhães , Oliveira Ualison Rébula
Published: December 2015

During the technological evolution of the means of production and services, indicators of performance were usually used - from the more intuitive to the most elaborate forms - to convey information and support decisions. Verifying the difficulty of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) on planning strategies, generating data and implementing information for decision support systems, there is a need to prepare an introductory set of performance indicators for this important kind of organization - as shown in this paper. To achieve this goal, we studied the Balanced Scorecard – a model of performance indicators highly diffused worldwide - to choose the most popular indicators for Micro and Small Enterprises. The main results of this study are fifteen performance indicators targeted in the four perspectives of the Balanced Scorecard, which in the opinion of experts on the subject are ideal for introducing support in decision making for micro and small organizations strategies. In this context, this article aimed to raise the opinion of PhDs from the University Federal Fluminense (UFF), which act in different areas, about the main types of business performance indicators applicable to Micro and Small Enterprises. To accomplish this, a theoretical background was applied on performance indicators and on the Balanced Scorecard model. Besides that, the authors have conducted interviews with doctors of UFF in the areas of financial, customer, internal business process and learning and growth to develop a set of fifteen indexes. These fifteen indicators compose the set of performance indicators for MSE. It was concluded that the objectives were achieved and this study may well contribute to the academic community and to society, as so for businesses by presenting a set of introductory performance indicators for those micro and small companies that don’t have this practice.
A Taxonomy and Review of Positive Consumer Dispositions toward Foreign Countries and Globalization
Authors: Bartsch Fabian , Riefler Petra , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: December 2015

International marketing research has shown vivid interest in consumers’ positive dispositions toward foreign countries and globalization. Motivated by the aim to segment international consumer markets, the literature has introduced and adopted a plethora of constructs and measurement instruments to capture such dispositions. However, the current state of literature is problematic because of an unsorted range of constructs with overlapping conceptualizations, diverse operationalizations, and fragmented empirical findings regarding the impact of these constructs on consumer responses. Consequently, making an informed choice on which construct(s) to employ in substantive research (and why) is extremely difficult. This article aims to advance the international marketing literature by (1) developing a conceptual taxonomy of constructs of positive consumer dispositions that highlights their similarities and unique features; (2) undertaking a comprehensive review of the relevant conceptualizations and operationalizations; and (3) providing guidance for further research on positive dispositions, including antecedents, response variables, and potential mediating and moderating influences. To move substantive research in this field further, this article also proposes a research framework that comprises antecedents, causal sequences of dispositions, effects on consumer response variables, and potential boundary conditions.
El Nuevo Servicio Público (NSP), un paradigma para la construcción de nuevos modelos metodológicos para el análisis de la administración pública
Authors: Pereira López María , Jaráiz Gulías Erika
Published: December 2015

En los últimos treinta años, las administraciones públicas se han visto obligadas a hacer frente a importantes desafíos, de carácter externo e interno, que han contribuido a perfilar no sólo su propia arquitectura sino, y sobre todo, cuáles deben ser los principios que deben guiar sus acciones. Esta situación ha abierto un proceso de reformas en las administraciones públicas, fundamentalmente de los países desarrollados, en las que el principal elemento a debate es el papel del ciudadano y las implicaciones y repercusiones que dicho papel tiene en términos de gestión, prestación y evaluación de los servicios públicos. Un debate que se ha vertebrado en torno a dos grandes perspectivas teóricas, el New Public Management y el New Public Service.http://dx.doi.org/10.15304/rips.14.2.2727
Investigation of Convergence of Iterative Aggregation Methods for Linear Equations in a Banach Space
Authors: Kopach M. , Obshta A. , Shuvar B.
Published: December 2015

The sufficient conditions of convergence for a class of multi-parameter iterativeaggregation methods are established. These conditions do not contain the requirements ofpositivity for the operators and aggregating functionals. Moreover, it is not necessary thatthe corresponding linear continuous operators are compressing
Changing Trends in Asthma Prevalence Among Children
Authors: Akinbami Lara J. , Simon Alan E. , Rossen Lauren M.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND:

Childhood asthma prevalence doubled from 1980 to 1995 and then increased more slowly from 2001 to 2010. During this second period, racial disparities increased. More recent trends remain to be described.

METHODS:

We analyzed current asthma prevalence using 2001–2013 National Health Interview Survey data for children ages 0 to 17 years. Logistic regression with quadratic terms was used to test for nonlinear patterns in trends. Differences between demographic subgroups were further assessed with multivariate models controlling for gender, age, poverty status, race/ethnicity, urbanicity, and geographic region.

RESULTS:

Overall, childhood asthma prevalence increased from 2001 to 2009 followed by a plateau then a decline in 2013. From 2001 to 2013, multivariate logistic regression showed no change in prevalence among non-Hispanic white and Puerto Rican children and those in the Northeast and West; increasing prevalence among 10- to 17-year-olds, poor children, and those living in the South; increasing then plateauing prevalence among 5- to 9-year-olds, near-poor children, and non-Hispanic black children; and increasing then decreasing prevalence among 0- to 4-year-olds, nonpoor, and Mexican children and those in the Midwest. Non-Hispanic black-white disparities stopped increasing, and Puerto Rican children remained with the highest prevalence.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current asthma prevalence ceased to increase among children in recent years and the non-Hispanic black-white disparity stopped increasing due mainly to plateauing prevalence among non-Hispanic black children.
The causes of post-2009 differences in the economic performance of EU countries
Authors: Maleček Petr
Published: December 2015

This study examines the causes of the rather dissimilar development of individual EU economies after the 2008/09 crisis. The initial elemental analysis of contributions to GDP growth is followed by a growth accounting exercise, with decomposition into the effects of movements in total factor productivity, capital stock, and several labour market indicators. The subsequent section then seeks to clarify to what extent this development was driven by changes in cyclical conditions and the potential product.
Can the stochastic equilibrium job search models fit transition economies?
Authors: Woźniak Marcin
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study is to apply the stochastic job search framework to the analysis of three transition economies (Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic). Two versions of equilibrium unemployment models have been developed resembling Mortensen and Pissarides’ models, namely the dynamic and stochastic models. The dynamic model’s properties were briefly examined by evaluating the Jacobian matrix and plotting the phase plane of the economy. In the primary analysis of the stochastic model, job destruction decisions are endogenous as a response to random productivity changes. A martingale, i.e. a discrete-space version of the geometric Brownian motion with the drift and volatility parameter, was used to enable fluctuation of endogenous variables and to perform numerical simulations. The results are promising, although ambiguous in some points, e.g. the main model-generated time-series are close to the empirical time-series, including reasonable fluctuations, correlation signs, and autocorrelations. However, the model was unable to capture some subtle differences in productivity and job destruction rate series across the countries, which is its main limitation.
INVESTIGATION OF PROPERTIES OF CURRENT COLLECTOR ELEMENTS AND THEIR EFFECT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF TRIBOSYSTEM «CONTACT WIRE - CURRENT COLLECTOR ELEMENT»
Authors: Bolshakov Yu. L. , Antonov A. V.
Published: December 2015

Purpose. The paper is devoted to the detailed analysis of interrelations at the contact point of friction pair «contact wire – current collector insert». In the work it is necessary: 1) to examine quality of manufacturing of specimens of current collector elements from different manufacturers; 2) to narrow the range of hardness for carbon inserts; 3) to develop a technique of sorting carbon current collector inserts for the structural parameters. Methodology. The executed work was based on the use of the theory of reliability of technical systems and electromechanical processes. Findings. The paper studies the interrelation at the contact point of friction pair «contact wire – current col lector insert», the connection was established between the hardness and electrical resistivity. It is proposed to narrow the range of carbon inserts hardness. The method of sorting coal collector inserts in hardness was developed, and the research has revealed the discrepancy of current collector inserts with existing regulations. It was proposed to equip the pantographs slide with current collector elements using special scheme and to develop a specialized research facility, which will be possible to conduct studies of the interaction of the friction pair «contact wire – current collector insert». Originality. In the course of the study the current collector inserts the sharp structural heterogeneity and fluctuations of the density of the material along the length of the insert were established. The dependence between hardness of inserts and electrical resistivity was established. It was analyzed and concluded about the need to reduce the values of the normal range of hardness. Based on the results of the research, the experimental dependences were obtained and proposed the method for sorting carbon current collector inserts for the structural parameters. Practical value. The obtained results of coal current collector inserts define the need to use method for sorting the coal current collector inserts and the use of a special scheme for equipping pantograph slide. It will allow optimizing their work, knowing the limitations for edges in exploitation and the type of the objective function that should be achieved. The proposed measures can reduce the intensity of the electrical and mechanical wear of materials friction pair «contact wire – current collector inserts». The use of specialized research facility for the study of the friction pair, will allow carrying out the studies to determine the intensity of wear of contact surfaces of the pair of friction and the coefficient of friction at various external factors.