bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of planning intervention on business development: Evidence from the Netherlands
Authors: Ploegmakers Huub , Beckers Pascal , Van der Krabben Erwin
Published: November 2017

There has been a growing research interest in measuring the impact of planning and land-use regulations on housing market outcomes, but parallel development of the evidence base for the business sector has yet to occur. This article examines the impact of planning intervention on the amount of building investment taking place at sites allocated for industrial and business development. Measures that capture different dimensions of planning intervention are incorporated into models of industrial building investment. The models are estimated using a novel micro dataset on permit activity that covers a sample of industrial and business sites in the Netherlands. The results provide evidence of some of the expected negative effects of the regulatory role of planning intervention, but also show that proactive, targeted planning policies exert a significant and positive influence on investment activity. Specifically, policy-induced improvements to the physical environment will stimulate both new construction and refurbishment activity.
Home Health Aides' Perceptions of Quality Care: Goals, Challenges, and Implications for a Rapidly Changing Industry
Authors: Franzosa Emily , Tsui Emma K. , Baron Sherry
Published: November 2017

Home care payment models, quality measures, and care plans are based on physical tasks workers perform, ignoring relational care that supports clients' cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. As states seek to rein in costs and improve the efficiency and quality of care, they will need to consider how to measure and support relational care. In four focus groups ( n = 27) of unionized, agency-based New York City home health aides, workers reported aide–client relationships were a cornerstone of high-quality care, and building them required communication, respect, and going the extra mile. Since much of this care was invisible outside the worker–client relationship, aides received little supervisory support and felt excluded from the formal care team. Aligning payment models with quality requires understanding the full scope of services aides provide and a quality work environment that offers support and supervision, engages aides in patient care, and gives them a voice in policy decisions.
Testing Overall and Synergistic Campaign Effects in a Partisan Statewide Election
Authors: Shaw Daron , Blunt Christopher , Seaborn Brent
Published: November 2017

Although studies based on field experiments and large- N surveys have enhanced our understanding of how campaigns affect U.S. elections, few of these projects have (1) considered the synergistic effects of distinct aspects of the campaign, (2) focused on statewide, partisan elections, or (3) considered the durability of any estimated campaign effects. We rely on a massive field experiment from the 2014 Texas gubernatorial campaign to assess the individual, synergistic, and collective impact of a variety of outreach modes on the electorate. The data demonstrate some durable synergistic and overall campaign effects on voters’ attitudes toward the sponsoring candidate, with lesser effects on turnout. In addition, while the results indicate that television is rightly considered the most effective mover of voters, radio and Internet advertising also have notable effects and may, in fact, deliver a better return on investment.
Acoustic metamaterials with combined heterogeneous double-split hollow sphere for noise reduction
Authors: Choi Jung Sik , Yoon Gil Ho
Published: November 2017

We present the concept design of a new class of acoustic metamaterial structure based on a combined heterogeneous double-split hollow sphere (CHDSHS). These structures are local resonators possessing subwavelength band gaps. The present CHDSHS metamaterial structures are made of plastic sphere structures with two different holes. The main novelty of a CHDSHS relies in the significant noise reduction obtained and the simplicity of manufacture. Their characteristics in band gaps are influenced by the volume sizes of the plastic sphere and the areas of the two holes. The CHDSHS metamaterials are combined to increase pressure attenuation over a wide frequency range. The frequency shifts in the band gap due to the changes in size are formulated and discussed in detail. Furthermore, the band gaps of the present CHDSHS metamaterials are numerically and experimentally demonstrated.
Exploring the Interaction of Drosophila TDP-43 and the Type II Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel, Cacophony, in Regulating Motor Function and Behavior
Authors: Lembke Kayly M , Morton David B
Published: November 2017

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common adult onset motor neurodegenerative disease. The cause of the disease remains obscure, and as such there is no effective treatment or cure. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases are frequently characterized by dysfunction of the RNA-binding protein, TDP-43. Using model systems to understand the mechanisms underlying TDP-43 dysfunction should accelerate identification of therapeutic targets. A recent report has shown that motor defects caused by the deletion of the Drosophila TDP-43 ortholog, tbph, are not driven by changes in the physiology at the neuromuscular junction. Rather, defective motor burst rhythmicity and coordination, displayed by tbph mutants, are rescued by genetically restoring a voltage-gated calcium channel to either motor neurons or just a single pair of neurons in the brain. If these effects are mirrored in human TDP-43 proteinopathies, these observations could open new avenues to investigate alternative therapeutic targets for these neurodegenerative diseases.
Functional Studies of CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein Site Located Downstream of the Transcriptional Start Site
Authors: Liu Yujie , Nonnemacher Michael R , Alexaki Aikaterini , Pirrone Vanessa , Banerjee Anupam , Li Luna , Kilareski Evelyn , Wigdahl Brian
Published: November 2017

Previous studies have identified a CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) site located downstream of the transcriptional start site (DS3). The role of the DS3 element with respect to HIV-1 transactivation by Tat and viral replication has not been characterized. We have demonstrated that DS3 was a functional C/EBPβ binding site and mutation of this site to the C/EBP knockout DS3-9C variant showed lower HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR) transactivation by C/EBPβ. However, it was able to exhibit similar or even higher transcription levels by Tat compared to the parental LTR. C/EBPβ and Tat together further enhanced the transcription level of the parental LAI-LTR and DS3-9C LTR, with higher levels in the DS3-9C LTR. HIV molecular clone viruses carrying the DS3-9C variant LTR demonstrated a decreased replication capacity and delayed rate of replication. These results suggest that DS3 plays a role in virus transcriptional initiation and provides new insight into C/EBP regulation of HIV-1.
Burnout and depression: Causal attributions and construct overlap
Authors: Bianchi Renzo , Brisson Romain
Published: November 2017

Burnout has been commonly regarded as a job-induced syndrome. In this 468-participant study (67% female; mean age: 46.48), we examined the extent to which individuals with burnout and depressive symptoms attribute these symptoms to their job. Fewer than half (44%) of the individuals with burnout symptoms viewed their job as the main cause of these symptoms. The proportion of participants ascribing their depressive symptoms to work was similar (39%). Results from correlation and cluster analyses were indicative of burnout–depression overlap. Our findings suggest that burnout may not be a specifically job-induced syndrome and further question the validity of the burnout construct.
Autism spectrum disorder and interoception: Abnormalities in global integration?
Authors: Hatfield Timothy R , Brown Rhonda F , Giummarra Melita J , Lenggenhager Bigna
Published: November 2017

Research over the past three decades has seen a revived interest in the way the human body—and the way in which it is perceived—interacts with aspects of our experience. Consequently, interoception (i.e. the perception of physiological feedback from the body) has recently been shown to be associated with a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and affective functions, making it broadly relevant to the study of autism spectrum disorder. Although limited qualitative accounts and empirical studies suggest that individuals with autism spectrum disorder encounter abnormalities when perceiving and integrating physiological feedback from their bodies, other studies have suggested that people with/without autism spectrum disorder do not differ in interoceptive ability after accounting for alexithymia. In this article, we discuss the newly recognized importance of interoception in autism spectrum disorder with a focus on how deficits in the perception of bodily feedback might relate to the core features and co-occuring psychopathology of autism spectrum disorder. Finally, a new integrated theory is advanced which posits that people with autism spectrum disorder may experience a reduced capacity to integrate interoceptive information that may result in a narrow attentional bodily focus and reduced motivational and behavioral drives.
Barriers to the secondary use of data in critical care
Authors: Prince Karl , Jones Matthew , Blackwell Alan , Simpson Alexander , Meakins Sallyanne , Vuylsteke Alain
Published: November 2017

Purpose

We explore the challenges of the secondary use of data in clinical information systems which critical care units in the National Health Service (England) are facing.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of critical care units in England regarding their practices in collecting and using clinical information systems and data.

Results

Critical care units use clinical information systems typically independently of hospital information systems and focus mainly on using data for auditing, management reporting and research. Respondents reported that extracting data from their clinical information system was difficult and that they would use stored data more if it were easier to access. Data extraction takes time and who extracts data, the training they receive and the tools they use affect the extraction and use of data.

Conclusion

A number of key challenges affect the secondary use of data in critical care: a lack of integration of information systems within critical care and across departments; barriers to accessing data; mismatched data tools and user requests. Data are predominantly used for reporting and research with less emphasis on using data to inform clinical practice.
Overcoming the Straw Man Effect in Oncology: Visualization and Ranking of Chemotherapy Regimens Using an Information Theoretic Approach
Authors: Warner Jeremy L. , Yang Peter C. , Alterovitz Gil
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Despite the plethora of randomized controlled trial (RCT) data, most cancer treatment recommendations are formulated by experts. Alternatively, network meta-analysis (NMA) is one method of analyzing multiple indirect treatment comparisons. However, NMA does not account for mixed end points or temporality. Previously, we described a prototype information theoretical approach for the construction of ranked chemotherapy treatment regimen networks. Here, we propose modifications to overcome an apparent straw man effect, where the most studied regimens were the most negatively valued.

Methods

RCTs from two scenarios—upfront treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma—were assembled into ranked networks using an automated algorithm based on effect sizes, statistical significance, surrogacy of end points, and time since RCT publication. Vertex and edge color, transparency, and size were used to visually analyze the network. This analysis led to the additional incorporation of value propagation.

Results

A total of 18 regimens with 42 connections (chronic myelogenous leukemia) and 28 regimens with 25 connections (relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma) were analyzed. An initial negative correlation between vertex value and size was ameliorated after value propagation, although not eliminated. Updated rankings were in close agreement with published guidelines and NMAs.

Conclusion

Straw man effects can distort the comparative efficacy of newer regimens at the expense of older regimens, which are often cheaper or less toxic. Using an automated method, we ameliorated this effect and produced rankings consistent with common practice and published guidelines in two distinct cancer settings. These findings are likely to be generalizable and suggest a new means of ranking efficacy in cancer trials.
Predicting Patient Treatment Deferrals at an Outpatient Chemotherapy Infusion Center: A Statistical Approach
Authors: Richardson Donald B. , Guikema Seth D. , Cohn Amy E.M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Patients scheduled for outpatient infusion sometimes may be deferred for treatment after arriving for their appointment. This can be the result of a secondary illness, not meeting required bloodwork counts, or other medical complications. The ability to generate high-quality predictions of patient deferrals can be highly valuable in managing clinical operations, such as scheduling patients, determining which drugs to make before patients arrive, and establishing the proper staffing for a given day.

Methods

In collaboration with the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, we have developed a predictive model that uses patient-specific data to estimate the probability that a patient will defer or not show for treatment on a given day. This model incorporates demographic, treatment protocol, and prior appointment history data. We tested a wide range of predictive models including logistic regression, tree-based methods, neural networks, and various ensemble models. We then compared the performance of these models, evaluating both their prediction error and their complexity level.

Results

We have tested multiple classification models to determine which would best determine whether a patient will defer or not show for treatment on a given day. We found that a Bayesian additive regression tree model performs best with the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center data on the basis of out-of-sample area under the curve, Brier score, and F1 score. We emphasize that similar statistical procedures must be taken to reach a final model in alternative settings.

Conclusion

This article introduces the existence and selection process of a wide variety of statistical models for predicting patient deferrals for a specific clinical environment. With proper implementation, these models will enable clinicians and clinical managers to achieve the in-practice benefits of deferral predictions.
The constant threat from a non-native predator increases tail muscle and fast-start swimming performance inXenopustadpoles
Authors: Mori Tsukasa , Yanagisawa Yukio , Kitani Yoichiro , Yamamoto Goshi , Goto-Inoue Naoko , Kimura Tadashi , Kashiwagi Keiko , Kashiwagi Akihiko
Published: November 2017

Predator-induced phenotypic plasticity is the ability of prey to adapt to their native predator. However, owing to environmental changes, encounters with unknown predators are inevitable. Therefore, study of prey and non-native predator interaction will reveal the primary stages of adaptive strategies in prey-predator interactions in the context of evolutionary processes. Here, Xenopus tadpoles exposed to a non-native predator, a larval salamander, showed a significant increase in body weight and tail length to body length ratio. The Tmax2 test indicated a significant enhancement of the tail muscle and decrease in the relative ventral fin height in tadpoles exposed to predation risk, leading to significantly higher average swimming speeds. The analysis of muscle-related metabolites revealed that sarcosine increased significantly in tadpoles exposed to non-native predators. Multiple linear regression analysis of the fast-start swimming pattern showed that the fast-start swimming speed was determined by the time required for a tadpole to bend its body away from the threat (C-start) and the angle at which it was bent. In conclusion, morphological changes in tadpoles were functionally adaptive and induced by survival behaviors of Xenopus tadpoles against non-native predators.
Εισαγωγή: Εγκαινιάζοντας έναν νέο forum για την εθνογραφική μελέτη της γλώσσας
Authors: Κανάκης Κώστας
Published: November 2017

Εισαγωγή στο πρώτο τεύχος
Introducing the Brassica Information Portal: Towards integrating genotypic and phenotypic Brassica crop data
Authors: Eckes Annemarie H. , Gubała Tomasz , Nowakowski Piotr , Szymczyszyn Tomasz , Wells Rachel , Irwin Judith A. , Horro Carlos , Hancock John M. , King Graham , Dyer Sarah C. , Jurkowski Wiktor
Published: November 2017

The Brassica Information Portal (BIP) is a centralised repository for brassica phenotypic data. The site hosts trait data associated with brassica research and breeding experiments conducted on brassica crops, that are used as oilseeds, vegetables, livestock forage and fodder and for biofuels. A key feature is the explicit management of meta-data describing the provenance and relationships between experimental plant materials, as well as trial design and trait descriptors. BIP is an open access and open source project, built on the schema of CropStoreDB, and as such can provide trait data management strategies for any crop data. A new user interface and programmatic submission/retrieval system helps to simplify data access for researchers, breeders and other end-users. BIP opens up the opportunity to apply integrative, cross-project analyses to data generated by the Brassica Research Community. Here, we present a short description of the current status of the repository.
Youth segment of a labor market of modern Russia
Authors: Гневашева Вера , Gnevasheva Vera
Published: November 2017

The book is devoted to questions of professional formation of youth in the conditions of modern Russia taking into account their change during reforming of society and social and economic processes in the state. Basis of work are the conducted author´s monitoring researches on problems of professional formation and labor socialization of youth, formation of professional competences of young specialists through higher education system during 2001-2014. Research is directed on system studying of motivation of youth in the course of formation by it(her) of professional competences, features of vocational guidance of young people of modern social and economic conditions, youth expectations from the received professional competences for the purpose of identification of the developed tendencies of social and economic behavior of youth in the course of professional formation, identification of existing disproportions, their social and economic assessment. The monograph is devoted to features of interaction of a labor market and the market of educational services in the conditions of current trends of globalization and intercountry integration.
Patriotic education of staff penitentiary system in contemporary conditions
Authors: Михайлов Алексей , Mikhaylov Aleksey , Шишкин Евгений , Shishkin Evgeniy
Published: November 2017

The article reveals the peculiarities of patriotic education of penitentiary staff in the conditions of reforming. Conceptual aspects of the term "patriotism" of its content and direction.As part of patriotic education is the development of Russian society of high social activity, civil responsibility, spirituality, formation of citizens with positive values and qualities that can manifest them in the creative process in the interests of the Motherland, strengthening the state, ensuring its vital interests and sustainable development.The goals of patriotic education of Russian citizens through more specific objectives, taking into account the specifics of subjects and objects of education, the environment in which it is carried out, the characteristics of their solutions in the economic, social, legal, political, cultural and other spheres.

The content and focus of patriotism are determined, above all, spiritual and moral climate of society, its historical roots, feeding the public life of generations. The article also discloses the most meaningful actual directions of patriotic education of employees of the penitentiary system: the spiritual and moral, historical and regional studies, civil-patriotic, social, patriotic, military, patriotic, heroic and patriotic, sports and patriotic.
The importance of oral exercises in courses of communicative skills
Authors: Башлуева Наталья , Bashlueva Natalya
Published: November 2017

The article deals with the need for cadets to develop everyday communication skills in a foreign language in order to develop communicative competence and improve the efficiency of the process of training cadets of Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

To achieve this goal, it is necessary to increase the knowledge of cadets and develop methodological techniques that ensure the development of conversational skills in the volume indicated in the program.
Psychological competence of employees of law enforcement bodies in the prevention of suicidal risks in the performance
Authors: Кутепова Марина , Kutyepova Marina
Published: November 2017

The article considers the signs of suicidal behavior of a person. Based on a survey of law enforcement officers in which they provide self-assessment of knowledge about the signs of suicide, as well as the possibilities and nature of applying this knowledge to suicides, it is concluded that it is necessary to train internal affairs officials in the prevention of suicidal behavior. Based on the analysis of the results of the study, it was concluded that it is necessary to improve and systematize the knowledge of employees of the internal affairs agencies on suicidal behavior of the individual, and also to conduct educational work in this direction.
Comparing radiotherapy patient flows in England and Italy
Authors: Gandy Rob , Audisio Riccardo , Franci Alberto , Gurrieri Caterina , Maurizi Francesca
Published: November 2017

Research into radiotherapy patient flows in England and Italy investigated the degree of self-sufficiency in related service areas across each country. The respective results showed very different patterns, with there apparently being greater patient flow and less self-sufficiency for services in Italy, compared to England. However, close inspection suggested the results were not strictly comparable, despite the data, methodology and analyses being similar and entirely fitting in both cases. The respective studies were consequently compared for a range of criteria: how radiotherapy services are commissioned and provided; cultural expectations; base area definitions; data used; analyses undertaken; and research results. It was found that direct comparisons could not necessarily be drawn because cultural, conceptual, organisational and systemic factors in the delivery of services within each country influenced the results. Therefore, such factors should be taken into account when comparing health services in different countries, particularly in respect of patient flows and service self-sufficiency.
Coaching conversations: The key questions
Authors: Matthews Martin
Published: November 2017

Coaching can be a powerful technique to help middle leaders support teachers in challenging circumstances. Martin Matthews looks at the basics and considers some key coaching questions
Why Do Some Psychotherapy Clients Get Better Than Others?
Authors: Eells Tracy D
Published: November 2017

This commentary explores reasons why one client
The complexities of lithium
Authors: Ko Benjamin
Published: November 2017

This is a editorial focus written to highlight the findings by Yang et al in the article “The Soluble (Pro)Renin Receptor Does Not Influence Lithium‐Induced Diabetes Insipidus but Does Provoke Beiging of White Adipose Tissue in Mice.”
Epileptic pilocarpine‐treated rats exhibit aberrant hippocampal EPSP‐spike potentiation but retain long‐term potentiation
Authors: Carpenter‐Hyland Ezekiel , Bichler Edyta K. , Smith Mathew , Sloviter Robert S. , Benveniste Morris
Published: November 2017

Hippocampal neuron plasticity is strongly associated with learning, memory, and cognition. In addition to modification of synaptic function and connectivity, the capacity of hippocampal neurons to undergo plasticity involves the ability to change nonsynaptic excitability. This includes altering the probability that EPSPs will generate action potentials (E‐S plasticity). Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder commonly associated with neuronal hyperexcitability and cognitive dysfunction. We examined E‐S plasticity in chronically epileptic Sprague–Dawley rats 3–10 weeks after pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus. CA1 neurons in hippocampal slices were assayed by whole‐cell current clamp to measure EPSPs evoked by Schaffer collateral stimulation. Using a weak spike‐timing‐dependent protocol to induce plasticity, we found robust E‐S potentiation in conjunction with weak long‐term potentiation (LTP) in saline‐treated rats. In pilocarpine‐treated rats, a similar degree of LTP was found, but E‐S potentiation was reduced. Additionally, the degree of E‐S potentiation was not correlated with the degree of LTP for either group, suggesting that they independently contribute to neuronal plasticity. E‐S potentiation also differed from LTP in that E‐S plasticity could be induced solely from action potentials generated by postsynaptic current injection. The calcium chelating agent BAPTA in the intracellular solution blocked LTP and E‐S potentiation, revealing the calcium dependence of both processes. These findings suggest that LTP and E‐S potentiation have overlapping but nonidentical mechanisms of inducing neuronal plasticity that may independently contribute to cognitive disruptions observed in the chronic epileptic state.
Undergraduates’ Involvement in Entrepreneurial Opportunities and Attitude to Academic Work: Implications for Counselling
Authors:   Beatrice Olawumi
Published: November 2017

This study examines how undergraduates’ involvement in entrepreneurial opportunities and co-curricular activities affects their attitudes to academic work, and the place of counselling in resolving the conflict of interest experienced among the students. Many undergraduate students dabble into entrepreneurial activities without considering their impacts on their academic work. A lot of undergraduates have exchanged their academic work for business, and this has jeopardized their academic integrity. One hundred undergraduate students were sampled from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko using a questionnaire titled ‘Entrepreneurial Questionnaire’. Descriptive sample technique was used, and the data was analysed using chi square analysis. Four hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The four hypotheses tested were rejected. The results imply that there is significant relationship between undergraduates’ involvement in entrepreneurial activities attitude to academic work. There is significant relationship between involvement of male and female in entrepreneurial activities. Co-curricular and entrepreneurial activities were significantly related. Counselling strategies were recommended to help undergraduates to understand the fact that academic integrity is an important University value, and also that undergraduates can involve in entrepreneurial activities during vacation period to avoid conflict of interest with their academic work.
The Impact of Trainings and Experience on Teachers’ Attitudes Towards the Inclusion of Children with Special Educational Needs in the Ordinary and Comprehensive Schools
Authors: Shatri Saranda
Published: November 2017

Teachers play a cardinal role in the implementation of quality education, and consequently the positive attitudes of teachers are crucial to the successful implementation of inclusion in education. The justification for carrying out this study lies in the fact that many children with special needs in different parts of the world but also in Kosovo are still deprived of the fundamental rights to receive education alongside their peers. Among the many obstacles and challenges, one of the main documented challenges results to be the attitudes that today's societies have to those who qualify with different abilities. Kosovo is gradually trying and taking steps to move towards a more inclusive society. In Kosovo, many governmental and non-governmental organizations have offered various programs in the vocational training of Kosovo society, among others, training of teachers with new teaching and learning methodologies. Based on this, this research focused on the impact of the trainings in the teaching at school, how the training of teachers has effected the teaching process and quality of teaching, by using as a sample the large number of trained teachers. To find out the impacts of these trainings in the teaching process, research has been conducted and the results that are presented in this paper have been extracted. The paper investigates the impact of independent variables such as: working experience as a teacher, training of teachers, and also making comparisons between regular schools and comprehensive schools in Kosovo.
Marketing in Higher Education: Postgraduate Programs in Technological Educational Institute of Thessaly
Authors: Grammenou Kassiani , Ioannis Karagiorgos , Blanas Nikolaos ,   Ioanna, Tzika Heidy , Tzoumerkioti Kleio , Sideridou Alexandra-Antonia
Published: November 2017

The Departments of Higher Education that have incorporated postgraduate courses in their curriculum must acquire provision and adaptability mechanisms so that the courses can correspond to the current and future needs of their students. Important factors, such as many disadvantages that the extremely competitive postgraduate courses abroad face, compared to the postgraduate courses in Greece, lead the potential students to choose the Greek ones. This research paper aims to find the right methodology for the postgraduate courses to attract more students. Specifically the research will be conducted through questionnaires, using Likert method and SPSS system for the processing of data. Our goal is to collect primary data from active postgraduate students of the Technological Educational Institute of Thessaly. The results of the research will serve as useful tools for the administrative members of both Higher Education Universities and Technological Education Institutes, as well for the teachers, since they can showcase the Greek postgraduate courses in comparison to the ones abroad.
Economic Relations between Albania and France 1945–1990
Authors: Arapi Arshela , Duka Valentina
Published: November 2017

France had trade deals with several Balkan countries, which were often carried out by private firms that exchanged mutual interest. It would be of interest that even with Albania resumed exchanges for a category of articles despite the lack of a regular convention. Their purpose was to resume the works on kerosene requirements. This brought about the improvement of the Albanian economy and meeting the needs of the France for these products, which in turn strengthened even more the economic and political relations of the two countries. With the insistence of the French side, on August 1956, a trade agreement was signed between Albania and France, where the French Government allowed the exchange of goods between the two countries as a compensation to French firms seeking to collaborate with our country. It is worth pointing out that the trade relations that Albania had with France until 1964 was generally satisfactory. Albania's export and import plans were satisfactorily fulfilled and a better basis for new successes in forecasts and plans for the future in 1965 was provided. In the official talks with the French side in mid eighties, the Albanian side proposed the establishment of a joint group within the Chambers of Commerce to look at the possibilities of France purchasing our minerals and the possibilities of Albania buying their equipment. Based on the credits opened by French firms and our foreign trade enterprises, the release of the respective goods was followed in both directions. Thus, our companies have been releasing confectionery, towels, clothespins, chairs etc. French companies have continued to release electronic equipment, clay, oil spill delta and various exchange parts. Several other economic agreements were signed between two countries which increased the level of Albanian exports towards France.
Auf dem Weg zu einer kooperativen Landes- bzw. nationalen Archivbibliothek mit verteilter Bestandshaltung: Aussonderungsstrategien für Universitätsbibliotheken
Authors: Olliges-Wieczorek Ute
Published: November 2017

Unterhaltsträger von Bibliotheken sind derzeit nur schwer davon zu überzeugen, neue Flächen oder Magazinbauten zu finanzieren. Aufgrund einer in der Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Düsseldorf erarbeiteten Aussonderungsstrategie will der Beitrag aufzeigen, welche Bestände im Zeitalter von E-Publikationen und Digitalisierung ausgesondert werden können. Universitätsbibliotheken sollten durch Kooperationsvereinbarungen auch Langzeitarchivierungsstrategien für wenig genutzte Printbestände entwickeln. Ziel sollte die Etablierung einer kooperativen Landes- bzw. nationalen Archivbibliothek mit verteilten Beständen sein, die den anderen Bibliotheken Aussonderungen ermöglicht. Dafür müssen die Archivbestände der Bibliotheken in der ZDB und in den Verbundkatalogen gesondert gekennzeichnet werden. Erste Schritte hat die Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Düsseldorf eingeleitet.
Effect of Melatonin Administration on Prevention of Contrast- Induced Nephropathy following Coronary Angiography
Authors: Qaribi Morteza , Abdolrazaghnejad Ali , Shahmirzaei Reza , Pakniyat Abdolghader
Published: November 2017

Introduction. Contrast-induced-nephropathy (CIN) is a common complication during angiography that may lead to long-term complications. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of melatonin administration on prevention of CIN in patients who underwent coronary angiography with intra-arterial contrast agents. Method. This is single-blind randomized clinical trial that was performed over 100 patients with indication for coronary angiography. Patients are randomly assigned to two equal groups. All patients in the 12 hours before and 12 hours after the procedure, were received adequate intravenous hydration with normal saline and for the intervention group in addition to hydration, the day before angiography and immediately after angiography 3 mg melatonin was administered. For all patients, serum level of creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) before and 48 hours after the procedure were measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18 software. Results. Totally 100 participants with the mean age of 64.0±8.2 years were enrolled (63% male). There was no significant difference between intervention and control groups in baseline and demographic characteristics (P> 0.05). Although the mean serum Cr and BUN level increased in both groups, but the mean Cr, BUN and GFR before and after coronary angiography was not statistically significant. Based on the definition of CIN in the current study, 3(6%) patients from intervention group and 2(4%) patients from control group were affected by CIN (P = 0.243). Conclusion. It is likely that, melatonin administration has no significant effect on prevention of CIN following coronary angiography.
Renal Allograft Dysfunction Possibly Caused by Amiodarone Nephrotoxicity: a Case-Report
Authors: Basic-Jukic Nikolina , Katalinic Lea , Coric Marijana , Kocman Monika , Krtalic Branimir , Kes Petar
Published: November 2017

Amiodarone is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4 and can increase serum concentrations of drugs that are substrates of this enzyme system. Immunosuppressive drugs are also metabolized through the cytochrome metabolic pathway what may lead to important drug-drug interactions. A 60-year-old female received her second allograft from the deceased donor and was treated with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and steroids. Amiodarone was introduced for treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation four days after the transplantation. One month after the discharge she was readmitted to hospital for evaluation of the creeping creatinine. Biopsy showed borderline acute rejection. She received 3 boluses of 6- methilprednisolone but creatinine continued to rise. Repeated biopsy was without signs of rejection with mild interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy, mild global glomerulosclerosis and moderate arterial sclerosis. However, tubular vacuolization was prominent. After careful revision of her therapy we decided to replace amiodarone with sotalol. One week later her creatinine fell from 350 to 220 μmol/l and remained stable. This case illustrates possible amiodarone nephrotoxicity in a renal transplant recipient. We suggest that patients who need amiodarone in combination with tacrolimus be closely monitored by both cardiologists and nephrologists, with frequent determinations of tacrolimus trough levels and serum creatinine measurements.
The “New Cold Warriors” and the “Pragmatics”: The Differences in Foreign Policy Attitudes towards Russia and the Eastern Partnership States among the NATO Member States from Central and South-Eastern Europe
Authors: Kurečić Petar
Published: November 2017

The post-communist NATO member states from Central and South-Eastern Europe (CSEE) comprise a group of 11 NATO/EU member states, from the Baltic to the Adriatic and Black Sea. The twelfth and thirteenth NATO member states from the region are Albania and Montenegro. The afore-mentioned NATO/EU member states have mostly shown a similar stance towards the Eastern Partnership Policy. However, since 2014, these states have shown more diverse stances, albeit declaratively supporting the anti-Russian sanctions. Due to the difference in stances towards Russia, the “New Cold Warriors” (Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Romania) and the “Pragmatics” (Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia and Bulgaria), will maintain a mostly common course towards Russia and the Eastern Partnership states because they have to. The Czech Republic, although hosting a part of the US anti-ballistic missile shield, is not a genuine “New Cold Warrior”, while in 2016 Croatia effectively became one.
The Phenomenon of Journalism-related Crimes Under the Circumstances of Hybrid War in Ukraine
Authors: Pysmenskyy Yevhen
Published: November 2017

The article covers journalism-related crimes as a relatively distinct category of offences. The importance and purpose of isolating the concept of journalistic criminality under conditions of globalization in the modern theory of legal thought, the rapid development of the information society, and the embodied increase of the role of information and knowledge in human life are emphasized. Attention is paid to the factors affecting the dynamics and development of crimes in the area of professional activities of journalists, which primarily includes the environment of hybrid war. The destructive impact of the social consequences of journalistic crimes on society is evident in the case of Ukraine, which has suffered in the past and to this day experiences the latest information manifestations of hybrid war. The proposition to criminalize the intentional spreading of false information in the media by journalists is discussed. The reasons, basis and conditions for such criminalization are analysed. The existence of criminalization grounds for such an offence is substantiated in the article. However, conclusions are drawn on the inappropriateness of such criminalization due to its non-correspondence with certain conditions associated with difficulties in adjudication and with the problem of proving this type of behaviour. Other means of counteracting the deliberate dissemination of false information are considered.
NATO’s ‘Out of Area’ Operations: A Two- Track Approach. The Normative Side of a Military Alliance
Authors: Mihalache Oana-Cosmina
Published: November 2017

Even though many would have bet on NATO’s demise after the Cold War and consider it now to be an archaic, antiquated alliance - as the reality that led to its formation no longer exists to justify its purpose - the need for collective defence in an increasingly complicated security environment stands as grounds for its ever-growing importance and its need to adapt to a spectrum of challenges that is becoming more diversified. NATO has long surpassed its military defensive role and has adapted to new challenges and new threats, while it has broadened its security agenda accordingly. The ‘out of area’ missions that dragged the Alliance out of its borders brought more meaning to the community of shared values, whilst allowing it to become both a security exporter, and a values and norms exporter. The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission in Afghanistan comprises NATO’s transformation and adaptation to the new security challenges and its diffusion of norms in the ‘near abroad’.
Recurrent Neural Network based Soft Sensor for Monitoring and Controlling a Reactive Distillation Column
Authors: Kataria Gaurav , Singh Kailash
Published: November 2017

For the real time monitoring of a Reactive Distillation Column (RDC), a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) based soft sensor has been proposed to estimate the bottoms product composition of the RDC for the synthesis of n-Butyl Acetate using esterification reaction. This soft sensor acts as a measuring element in a closed loop involving a PI controller for the direct control of the RDC’s product concentration. The RNN acts as a dynamic network, which works on the sequential input data and output data with a recurrent connection. While using the RNN based soft sensor in the open loop, it has been observed that the sensor estimated the composition of butyl acetate in the bottoms with such an accuracy that it can be used for the control purpose. Closed loop results demonstrated that the system has been showing precise controlled results and soft sensor is showing small prediction Mean Square Error (MSE) when disturbances in feed flow rate and set point changes are introduced.
Improvement of color value of bio-based polyamide 56 fibers
Authors: Zhang Shouyun , Ma Jinghong
Published: November 2017

This paper introduces a feasible method to improve the color value of bio-based polyamide 56 (PA56) fiber. Three types of whitening modifiers were introduced into the bio-based PA56 fibers by the in-situ polymerization method and melt blending method in order to improve the fiber color. The color values and mechanical properties of PA56 fibers were tested and analyzed and the optimum additive ratio and process conditions were discussed. The results show that the improved color value of bio-based PA56 fibers can be achieved by the melt blending method of fluorescent whitening masterbatch and reasonable spinning condition control. When the additive amount of fluorescent whitening agent is 0.3%, the index of lightness (L) increased from 84 to 90, while the yellow index (YI) reduced from 16.8 to 12.6. Moreover, PA56 fibers show high breaking strength about 4.27 cN/dtex and good yellowing resistance and durability.
Preparation and crystallization kinetics of polyesteramide based on poly(L-lactic acid)
Authors: Zhao Xipo , Ding Zheng , Zhang Yuejun , Wang Yingxue , Peng Shaoxian
Published: November 2017

Using the melt polycondensation method, a polyesteramide was prepared based on poly(L-lactic acid) prepolymer and poly(ε-caprolactam) prepolymer and was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H-NMR. Isothermal crystallization behavior at different temperatures and non-isothermal crystallization kinetics at different cooling rates were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, and non-isothermal crystallization kinetics parameters were obtained using the Mo, Ozawa and Jeziorny methods. It was found that the increased cooling rates led to the broadening of the polyesteramide crystallization peaks and their shift toward lower temperatures. Mo and Jeziorny methods were found to be more suitable than the Ozawa method for the analysis of this system, as shown by the comparison these non-isothermal crystallization analysis methods. In addition, the values of activation energy of non-isothermal crystallization for polyesteramide obtained by the Kissinger and Takhor methods were −155.96 and −149.12 kJ/mol, respectively.
Being Moroccan abroad. Objects and culinary practices in women subjectivation
Authors: Mescoli Elsa
Published: November 2017

The definition of the self is a complex process which unfolds in everyday life though the use of objects and the performance of practices. Among others, food and culinary objects and practices contribute to the material foundation of subjectivation. Starting from De Certeau’s analysis of everyday life (1984) and adopting Warnier’s praxeological approach to subjectivation, our article aims at studying how two Moroccan women living in Milan’s suburbs make themselves through the materiality of food and related practices in a migration context. They move in peculiar ways among the constraints imposed both by the new local context and the country of origin food cultures. Through everyday food practices, women define a proper Moroccan “style” (Gell, 1998) made of diverse life stories as well as of an embodied collective memory anchored to materiality; they witness of different manners of being Moroccan, and of being it abroad.
An integral expression for the Dunkl kernel in the dihedral setting
Authors: Maslouhi Mostafa
Published: November 2017

Using the results in [12] where a construction of the Dunkl intertwining operator for a large set of regular parameter functions is provided, we establish an integral expression for the Dunkl kernel in the context of the dihedral group

𝒟
n

{\mathcal{D}_{n}}

with constant parameter function

k
∈
ℂ

{k\in\mathbb{C}}

and arbitrary order

n
≥
2

{n\geq 2}

. Our main tool is a differential system that leads to the explicit expression of the Dunkl kernel whenever an appropriate solution of it is obtained. In particular, an explicit expression of the Dunkl kernel

E
k

⁢

(
x
,
y
)

{E_{k}(x,y)}

is given when one of its argument x or y is invariant under the action of any reflection in the dihedral group. We obtain also a generating series for the homogeneous components

K
m

⁢

(
x
,
y
)

{K_{m}(x,y)}

,

m
∈

ℤ
+

{m\in\mathbb{Z}^{+}}

, of the Dunkl kernel and provide new sharp estimates for the Dunkl kernel in the large context

k
∈
ℂ

{k\in\mathbb{C}}

,

n
≥
2

{n\geq 2}

and

-

2
⁢
n
⁢
k

≠

1
,
2
,
3
,

…

{-2nk\neq 1,2,3,\dots\,}

.
The Effect of Exploitation Capacities on Organizational Performance: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Perdomo-Charry Geovanny , Barahona Nelson Lozada , Zuñiga-Collazos Alexander
Published: November 2017

The effect of exploitation capacity (EC) vis-à-vis organizational performance (OP) has not been sufficiently studied and has low empirical evidence in developing countries such as Colombia. Absorption capacity based on exploitation capacity (EC) is considered to have been relevant for organizations in developing countries to significantly increase their performance via innovation. We examined the effect of exploitation capacity versus organizational performance using a sample of 227 companies located in Medellin, Colombia. The main findings indicate that companies can generate exploitation capacities in order to increase organizational performance, essentially seeking to combine information from different sources for their benefit, thereby directly contributing to the growth of benefits in the companies under study.