bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Complications of Distal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Lovy Andrew J. , Keswani Aakash , Koehler Steven M. , Kim Jaehon , Hausman Michael
Published: February 2016

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate 30-day postoperative complications of open reduction and internal fixation [ORIF] and total elbow arthroplasty [TEA] for the treatment of distal humerus fractures in elderly patients using a validated national database.

Methods:

Review of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) Database identified all elderly patients (>65 years) who underwent TEA or ORIF for the treatment of closed intra-articular distal humerus fractures from 2007 to 2013. Bivariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors for 30-day adverse events as defined by NSQIP between ORIF and TEA groups were assessed using preoperative and intraoperative variables.

Results:

Among the 176 patients with distal humerus fractures, there were 33 TEA and 143 ORIF. There was no difference in age, medical comorbidities, or functional status. Total elbow arthroplasty was associated with an increased odds of severe adverse event compared to ORIF (odds ratio = 1.57, P = .16), although it did not achieve statistical significance. Infection rate was 0.7% in ORIF and 0.0% in TEA ( P = .99). Insulin-dependent diabetes and functional status were significant independent predictors of postoperative adverse events. Operative time (165 minutes vs 140 minutes, P = .06) and postoperative length of stay (3.6 days vs 2.3 days, P = 0.03) were longer for TEA compared to ORIF.

Conclusion:

Open reduction and internal fixation and TEA have similar 30-day postoperative complications for the treatment of distal humerus fractures among elderly patients. Despite favorable trends for TEA in recent studies, additional clinical results are needed to understand complications and limitation of TEA.

Level of evidence:

Level III, prognostic study.
The long non-coding RNA TUG1 indicates a poor prognosis for colorectal cancer and promotes metastasis by affecting epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Sun Junfeng , Ding Chaohui , Yang Zhen , Liu Tao , Zhang Xiefu , Zhao Chunlin , Wang Jiaxiang
Published: February 2016

Background

Long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that are involved in gene expression regulation. Taurine up-regulated gene 1 (TUG1) is a cancer progression related lncRNA in some tumor oncogenesis; however, its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. In this study, we determined the expression patterns of TUG1 in CRC patients and explored its effect on CRC cell metastasis using cultured representative CRC cell lines.

Methods

The expression levels of TUG1 in 120 CRC patients and CRC cells were determined using quantitative real-time PCR. HDACs and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related gene expression were determined using western blot. CRC cell metastasis was assessed by colony formation, migration assay and invasion assay.

Results

Our data showed that the levels of TUG1 were upregulated in both CRC cell lines and primary CRC clinical samples. TUG1 upregulation was closely correlated with the survival time of CRC patients. Overexpression of TUG1 in CRC cells increased their colony formation, migration, and invasion invitro and promoted their metastatic potential in vivo, whereas knockdown of TUG1 inhibited the colony formation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells invitro. It is also worth pointing out that TUG1 activated EMT-related gene expression.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that tumor expression of lncRNA TUG1 plays a critical role in CRC metastasis. TUG1 may have potential roles as a biomarker and/or a therapeutic target in colorectal cancer.
Scalable linkage-disequilibrium-based selective sweep detection: a performance guide
Authors: Alachiotis Nikolaos , Pavlidis Pavlos
Published: February 2016

Background

Linkage disequilibrium is defined as the non-random associations of alleles at different loci, and it occurs when genotypes at the two loci depend on each other. The model of genetic hitchhiking predicts that strong positive selection affects the patterns of linkage disequilibrium around the site of a beneficial allele, resulting in specific motifs of correlation between neutral polymorphisms that surround the fixed beneficial allele. Increased levels of linkage disequilibrium are observed on the same side of a beneficial allele, and diminish between sites on different sides of a beneficial mutation. This specific pattern of linkage disequilibrium occurs more frequently when positive selection has acted on the population rather than under various neutral models. Thus, detecting such patterns could accurately reveal targets of positive selection along a recombining chromosome or a genome. Calculating linkage disequilibria in whole genomes is computationally expensive because allele correlations need to be evaluated for millions of pairs of sites. To analyze large datasets efficiently, algorithmic implementations used in modern population genetics need to exploit multiple cores of current workstations in a scalable way. However, population genomic datasets come in various types and shapes while typically showing SNP density heterogeneity, which makes the implementation of generally scalable parallel algorithms a challenging task.

Findings

Here we present a series of four parallelization strategies targeting shared-memory systems for the computationally intensive problem of detecting genomic regions that have contributed to the past adaptation of the species, also referred to as regions that have undergone a selective sweep, based on linkage disequilibrium patterns. We provide a thorough performance evaluation of the proposed parallel algorithms for computing linkage disequilibrium, and outline the benefits of each approach. Furthermore, we compare the accuracy of our open-source sweep-detection software OmegaPlus, which implements all four parallelization strategies presented here, with a variety of neutrality tests.

Conclusions

The computational demands of selective sweep detection algorithms depend greatly on the SNP density heterogeneity and the data representation. Choosing the right parallel algorithm for the analysis can lead to significant processing time reduction and major energy savings. However, determining which parallel algorithm will execute more efficiently on a specific processor architecture and number of available cores for a particular dataset is not straightforward.
SEPARATION OF POWERS AND THE INDEPENDENCE OF CONSTITUTIONAL COURTS
Authors: Грабенвартер Кристоф , Grabenvarter Kristof
Published: February 2016

The presented article is devoted to one of the essentially and vitally important problems of an each country state power system maintaining, which is obviously influencing the sovereignity strengthening and making the legal constitutional basis of a state more durable and stable. The author considers the various aspects of the proportionality, which is to be provided in the state powers separation principle realization, dividing them into three traditional branches on one hand, and at the same time in the promoting constitutional courts real independence in every state on the other hand. The author tries to observe the appearance and further development of two methods which might be effected in reaching these goals. From his point of view the first method should be focused on further perfecting the division of labour in the state power system, which is to promote the actual independence of constitutional courts as the integral component of one of the state power system branches and which is provided with the separation of powers principle. The other method is to make the judicial constitutional justice administration more effective and qualified, which will help to implement the proper preconditions for firm incorporation the separation of powers principle into the every days life of society and state. The author also underlines and pays everyone’s attention to the mutual interdependency and intercommunication which are existing between the above mentioned state aims of priority and the results of fulfilling them. As for the author’s own scientific and practical elaborations of the facilities and instruments which might be used in the field of the legal statehood foundations strengthening is concerned, he suggests arranging the international cooperation of the constitutional courts of the states and setting up professional links between them, starting up the state system of “constitutional culture” educational courses for the population and implementing the unified international unanimous ethical standards for estimating the features of the persons intending to become constitutional judges.
LEGAL PRINCIPLES OF THE AUSTRIAN TAX SYSTEM’S REGULATION
Authors: Журавлева Оксана , Zhuravleva Oksana
Published: February 2016

According to the Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation, the establishment of the Eurasian Economic Union is a priority for Russia. It is necessary to take into account the experience of other federal states through the integration model’s creation. Austria is a federal state like the Russian Federation. The analysis of the Austrian experience in tax regulation including the implementation of supranational regulation rules in the national legislation may help to plan successful strategies. The article is focused on the legal basis for taxation in Austria. The subject of the research is the legal principles of taxation regulation, its dynamics, system and sources of tax legislation. The author concludes that 2015/2016 tax reform will change the implementation mechanisms of principles of federalism and justice. The research identifies tendencies for strengthening the role of federal regulation in taxation, harmonization of taxation procedures, revision of the economic model of taxation of physical persons’ incomes.
ON THE ROLE OF POLITICAL FACTORS IN INTEGRATION PROCESSES (ON THE EXAMPLE OF MERCOSUR)
Authors: Пайгина Дина , Paygina Dina
Published: February 2016

The article analyzes the role of political factors in integration processes. Their implementation is a key component of the foreign policy of any state. As is generally known, the strategy of mutual relations of various countries is determined by a number of political factors, taking into account the interests of the community or competition in various spheres of cooperation. At the same time political factors are seen as the driving force of any process imposed by a public authority. It seems that the effect of political factors in this context is reflected in the fact that during the decision-making the stakeholders of the international integration seek to satisfy their own interests. The condition of mutually beneficial relationships, which has a clear political and economic context, is one of the key conditions in resolving the issue of states’ entering into the integration process. The content of political factors includes not only the political nature of states’ activities at the international level, but also the causes and the circumstances under which these decisions were taken. Thus, political factors are one of the major reasons for making key decisions in the implementation of international integration processes.
CEPEJ AS THE CONSULTATIVE BODY OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE, GRANTED WITH THE RESPONSIBILITY OF DEVELOPING AND IMPLEMENTING COMMON STANDARDS IN THE SPHERE OF THE DELIVERY OF JUSTICE
Authors: Гурбанов Рамин , Gurbanov Ramin
Published: February 2016

The article is devoted to the work of the European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice, which is the consultative body of the Council of Europe and plays an important role in improving the justice systems of states — members of this regional organization. Byevaluating the quality of justice of the Council of Europe Member-States using own methods, CEPEJ determines problematic aspects of the functioning of the justice system of individual states and proposes ways to resolve them, thus making a significant contribution to the realization and protection of the human right to a fair trial enshrined in Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
THE DOCTRINE OF PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL LAW: THE THEORY OF STATUTES IN GERMANY AT THE END OF XVII CENTURY (JOHANN SHILTER AND SAMUEL STRYK)
Authors: Гетьман-Павлова Ирина , Getman-Pavlova Irina
Published: February 2016

The article investigates the development of the German doctrine of private international law at the end of the XVII century, in particular, the author analyzes the essays of Johann Schilter and Samuel Stryk. Among the German scholars engaged in the problems of the conflict of laws, Johann Schilter and Samuel Stryk are very prominent, however, their creativity and their contribution to the development of the doctrine of the conflict of laws rules are virtually unknown in Russian jurisprudence. They adhered to the opinion on dividing all statutes into three groups, but they preferred not to use the terms statutes personalia, realia, mixta. However, neither Shilter nor Stryk accepted the Dutch comitas gentium doctrine, so it is impossible to consider these scholars to be representatives of the “Dutch-German version of the theory of the statutes” as a concept, which is based on international comity. They attempted to explain the application of foreign laws from the standpoint of humanism and jus divinum. Shilter and Stryk’s conflict doctrines are of great interest and demonstrate the specificity of the German conflict doctrine, which has had a significant impact on the development of the legislation on German PIL.
OPINION 2/13 OF THE COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION: ANALYSIS AND FURTHER PERSPECTIVES OF EUROPEAN UNION ACCESSION TO THE EUROPEAN CONVENTION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: Даминова Насия , Daminova Nasiya
Published: February 2016

This paper is devoted to the legal analysis of CJEU Opinion 2/13 on European Union accession to the European Convention on Human Rights. The article examines the CJEU’s approach to the interpretation of Art. 267 and 344 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union — in the light of Protocol No. 16 to the European Convention on Human Rights, as well as the previous case law of the Court of Justice (Mox Plant and Melki and Abdeli). The conclusions are drawn as to the manner in which Opinion 2/13 develops EU legal order autonomy doctrine and how it affects the future perspectives of EU accession to the European Convention on Human Rights. Firstly, while interpreting the content and purpose of Art. 344 TFEU, the CJEU gives a positive answer to the question as to whether the ECHR compliance system falls within the ambit of this Treaty provision. Secondly, the Court of Justice takes an extremely protective approach in giving its interpretation to the role of preliminary rulings procedure guaranteed by Art. 267 TFEU for the unity and efficiency of European law, making even the legal protection of individuals secondary to these purposes. It is quite probable that the accession will be delayed for an indefinite period of time — due to the likely impossibility of reaching a consensus on a new version of the Draft accession agreement with all members of the Council of Europe (such as Russia, Ukraine and Turkey) in the very near future. At the same time, European Union accession to the European Convention on Human Rights remains a legal duty in accordance with Art. 6 Treaty on the European Union (TEU), Declaration No. 2 on Article 6 (2) TEU and Protocol No. 8 to the Lisbon Treaty.
EXPERIENCE OF CRIMINAL LAW PROTECTION OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IN THE STATES — CIS PARTICIPANTS AGAINST THE BACKGROUND OF COMPARATIVE LAW
Authors: Щерба Сергей , yerba Syergyey
Published: February 2016

Against the background of comparative law the article examines experience of legislative regulation of criminal law protection of intellectual property against criminal attacks in the states – CIS participants, it also discloses the possibilities of harmonization and unification of the criminal law of the Commonwealth countries regarding the acts infringing upon copyright and related rights, in order to create a single regulatory framework for international cooperation in this field.
FEATURES OF ECONOMIC (BUSINESS) ACTIVITY IN THE ENERGY SECTOR
Authors: Салиева Роза , Salieva Roza
Published: February 2016

The article highlights the features of economic activity in the energy sector. Economic activity associated with generation, transformation, transmission and use of different forms of energy, is carried out by business organizations of different branches of the energy sector of economy. In this article the author analyzes the structure of the energy sector, including oil and gas sector, coal sector, power generation and nuclear energy sector, as well as alternative energy sector. The author provides the definition of the economic activity in the energy sector taken from the Energy Charter Treaty. The author underlines that the energy sector is closely connected with the use of natural resources, as well as with the energy production, processing and marketing. It is advisable to consider such relations as business relations. They are ruled by the Energy law. The author provides examples of legislative establishment of economic activities in certain energy sectors of the Russian economy (in the sphere of Atomic Energy and in Chapter 8 of the Law of the Russian Federation “On Power Industry”). The author draws the conclusion about the need to improve the legislative system in the sphere of power industry.
Income inequality by method of non-weighted average absolute deviation: case study of Central and Eastern European countries
Authors: Tureckova Kamila
Published: February 2016

The presented article uses the method of non-weighted average absolute deviation for expressing income inequality in 11 selected Central and Eastern European Countries. Specifically, the analysis of income inequality is done for Poland, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, Austria, Slovenia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Based on the determination of income inequality in the article an analysis is made concerning the development of income inequality, including the subsequent inter-regional comparison in the context of the degree of income inequality in a given human society and economy. The text of this article is organized in 4 parts, after Introduction follows the analytic chapter where, primarily, the method of non-weighted average absolute deviation is explained. The third part contains the empirical analysis of income inequality, and the Conclusion highlights some major conclusions of detailed analysis made in Chapter 3. The analysis of income distribution of 11 European households between years 2005-2013 and its order is made in deciles basing on empirical data from the Statistics on Living Conditions and Welfare published by Eurostat.
Research, development and innovations in Czech manufacture of electronic products
Authors: Bockova Nina
Published: February 2016

The paper deals with the topic of research and development investments and its use in small and medium-sized enterprises SME’s operating in the electronic industry. The aim of the article is to find out the impact of innovation activities on enterprises, especially the influence of the sources of funding for the research activity. The Czech Republic is the geographic segment to be explored. A chapter on theoretical issues is followed by a description of the current situation in the Czech Republic and abroad, and access to legal support for research and development in the business sector. Primary data collected from a survey are analysed in the analytical part. The statistical data processing was done using Statistica 12 software. Some SME’s of chosen group of manufacturing industry focus on research and development performed by their own means, and they searched for the possibility of financing the research from various sources.
Yes, we are all teachers
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: February 2016

How do you perceive your role? How would you describe it to someone else in the sector, or outside the sector? We should be clear that when we work with children in the early years, we are all teaching.
However we dress it up
Authors: Gouldsboro Julia
Published: February 2016

We all know boys who love to play in the home corner and who are happy wearing dresses, but while most adults see this as normal development, there are still parents and practitioners who are resistant.
Developing a professional reputation outside of the sector
Authors: Kerslake Amy
Published: February 2016

As the government looks to raise the status of the sector, we offer a personal account of what it means to be professional, and what needs to be done to convince others of the high standards we reach.
What we can learn from… Kitchens!
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: February 2016

This month, we delve further into where we live by exploring the ‘heart of the home’. There is so much for children to find out about and so many directions their interests can take learning.
Cleaning up our acts
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: February 2016

Awareness of litter and an understanding of the impact it has on the environment are important life skills. From clean-up projects to recycling, we look at ways to educate children and to lead by example.
Heroic heraldic symbols
Authors: Williams David
Published: February 2016

So far in this series we have looked at iconic trees, plants and birds of the British Isles; this month we turn our attention to the animals that have been chosen to represent the nations of this island.
Watch out for snakes!
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: February 2016

The first article in a series that will explore traditional games takes a look at an ancient Indian game, that became a lesson in moral instruction for young children around the world – snakes and ladders.
Tap into new ideas
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: February 2016

Attending a series of five minute teacher presentations in a single evening can be an entertaining, sociable and useful exercise, providing a unique source of CPD.
Identify and then fix your program errors
Authors: Bosley Rachel , Bosley Mark
Published: February 2016

Find out how your pupils can tackle debugging as a necessary part of computer programming and hone the skills to solve problems methodically and independently.
Link plants by their common factors
Authors: Davis John
Published: February 2016

Explore your school grounds for plants which can provide a starting point for scientific enquiry into growing requirements, pollination and seed dispersal.
How mentoring can shape great teachers
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: February 2016

Headteacher Tom Donohoe explains why he believes that the best mentors are ‘hard to find, difficult to part with and impossible to forget’, and examines their influence.
Serving good food that is gluten-free
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: February 2016

Rising numbers of children now require a gluten-free diet, which means schools need to cater for them. Karen Hart attends a cookery masterclass to find out more.
Wide-ranging practise scenarios for maths
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: February 2016

Sal McKeown hears how Daydream Education's app provides scope for teachers to stretch able students and address areas of weakness for those who are struggling.
Quick off the mark
Authors: David Anthony
Published: February 2016

Marking is back at the heart of learning. When done well it can significantly help pupil progress and can be used as a clear indicator of best practice to Ofsted.
Lack of diversity results in missing out on talent
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: February 2016

Dorothy Lepkowska hears how schools can combat the lack of candidates coming forward from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, in all areas of teaching.
Los exiliados económicos. La nueva emigración española a Ecuador (2008-2015)
Authors: Rodríguez-Fariñas María Jara , Romero-Valiente Juan Manuel , Hidalgo-Capitán Antonio Luis
Published: February 2016

El artículo analiza la emigración española a Ecuador entre 2008 y 2015, con los objetivos de definir el perfil del nuevo emigrante español a Ecuador, conocer las causas de su emigración, detectar los problemas iniciales de su proceso migratorio, identificar las condiciones de su situación actual y conocer sus expectativas de futuro. Para ello se ha utilizado una estrategia metodológica mixta, cuantitativa y cualitativa, combinando la investigación de primer y segundo orden. Hemos concluido que estos emigrantes son jóvenes altamente cualificados, expulsados de España por la crisis y atraídos a Ecuador por el gobierno con la intención de contribuyan al cambio de su matriz productiva; en este sentido, Ecuador les ofrece oportunidades de adquirir experiencia laboral y están ocupando empleos cualificados que la mano obra nacional menos cualificada no puede ocupar. No han encontrado especiales dificultades en su proceso migratorio, se encuentran bastante satisfechos con su experiencia y entre sus expectativas predomina la idea de volver a España o de reemigrar.
Muestreo de candidatos extranjeros en las elecciones locales españolas. Nota metodológica
Authors: Santacreu Fernández Óscar
Published: February 2016

El aumento de la movilidad intraeuropea, potenciado por las sucesivas ampliaciones de la UE, ha puesto en valor la importancia de la participación política de los residentes extranjeros, especialmente en términos de su elegibilidad en las elecciones municipales españolas. En el contexto del proyecto de investigación titulado “La participación política como candidatos de los residentes europeos en España” (Ref. CSO2012-32930), este texto metodológico muestra cómo se ha utilizado un muestreo de tipo onomástico para identificar a los extranjeros que forman parte de las listas de los partidos que se han presentado en las elecciones locales españolas desde el año 2007 al 2015. El trabajo recoge las fases de implementación técnica asociadas al diseño, con la finalidad de determinar la población muestreada.
Constructing minimal homeomorphisms on point-like spaces and a dynamical presentation of the Jiang–Su algebra
Authors: Deeley Robin J. , Putnam Ian F. , Strung Karen R.
Published: February 2016

The principal aim of the present paper is to give a dynamical presentation of the Jiang–Su algebra. Originally constructed as an inductive limit of prime dimension drop algebras, the Jiang–Su algebra has gone from being a poorly understood oddity to having a prominent positive role in George Elliott’s classification programme for separable, nuclear

C
*

{\mathrm{C}^{*}}

-algebras. Here, we exhibit an étale equivalence relation whose groupoid

C
*

{\mathrm{C}^{*}}

-algebra is isomorphic to the Jiang–Su algebra. The main ingredient is the construction of minimal homeomorphisms on infinite, compact metric spaces, each having the same cohomology as a point. This construction is also of interest in dynamical systems. Any self-map of an infinite, compact space with the same cohomology as a point has Lefschetz number one. Thus, if such a space were also to satisfy some regularity hypothesis (which our examples do not), then the Lefschetz–Hopf Theorem would imply that it does not admit a minimal homeomorphism.
Characterization of the nuclear import mechanisms of HSV-1 UL31
Authors: Cai Mingsheng , Si Jiang , Li Xiaowei , Zeng Zhancheng , Li Meili
Published: February 2016

As an important protein, UL31 has been demonstrated to play multiple roles in herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) replication. Previous studies showed that UL31 predominantly locates in the nucleus in chemical fixed cells and live cells, however, the determining mechanisms for its nuclear translocation is not clear. In the present study, by utilizing live cells fluorescent microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation assays, the nuclear import of UL31 was characterized to be dependent on Ran-, importin α1- and transportin-1-mediated pathway. Therefore, these results will promote the understanding of UL31-mediated biological functions in HSV-1 infection cycle.
Contrasting effects of cardiac glycosides on cisplatin- and etoposide-induced cell death
Authors: Kulikov Andrey V. , Slobodkina Ekaterina A. , Alekseev Andrey V. , Gogvadze Vladimir , Zhivotovsky Boris
Published: February 2016

Cardiac glycosides (CGs) or cardiotonic steroids, which constitute a group of naturally occurring compounds with a steroid-like structure, can act on Na+/K+-ATPase as a receptor and activate intracellular signaling messengers leading to a variety of cellular responses. Epidemiological studies have revealed that CGs, used for the treatment of cardiac disorders, may also be beneficial as anti-cancer agents. CGs, acting in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, may significantly alter their efficiency in relation to cancer cell elimination, causing both sensitization and an increase in cancer cell death, and in some cases resistance to chemotherapy. Here we show the ability of CGs to modulate apoptotic response to conventionally used anti-cancer drugs. In combination with etoposide, CGs digoxin may enhance cytotoxic potential, thereby allowing the chemotherapeutic dose to be decreased and minimizing toxicity and adverse reactions. Mechanisms behind this event are discussed.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Tungsten Oxide/γ-Alumina and Surfactant-Capped Tungsten Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Catalytic Activities in Oxidative Cleavage of Oleic Acid
Authors: Kerenkan Amir Enferadi , Ello Aimé Serge , Echchahed Bousselham , Do Trong-On
Published: February 2016

Unsaturated fatty acids can be converted into mono and dicarboxylic acids, which are applicably valuable materials, through oxidative cleavage reaction in the presence of a highly efficient catalyst/oxidant system. In this work, two types of advanced heterogeneous catalysts have been developed; (i) high surface area mesoporous tungsten oxide/γ-alumina mixed metal oxide, and (ii) surfactant-capped tungsten oxide nanoparticles. Various technique including N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, XRD, SEM, EDS, TGA and catalytic test were used to monitor the physicochemical and catalytic properties of these materials. The characterization results revealed that type (i) materials exhibit high surface area and narrow particle size distribution, and the used surfactant could quantitatively enough cap the surface of type (ii) materials. The catalytic activities of these materials in the oxidative cleavage of oleic acid with H2O2 as oxidant were investigated. GC-MS was used to determine the produced amounts of desired products, azelaic and pelargonic acids. The catalytic test results showed more than 90 % conversion for type (ii) catalyst in 5 h reaction at 120 °C with acceptable production yields for azelaic and pelargonic acids. The significantly higher activity of this catalyst compared to type (i) arises from the interesting surface properties of tungsten oxides nanoparticles, which make them able to exploit the good features of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
Adaptation: Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale for 3–9 year-old Indian children
Authors: Kumar Rashmi , Shankar Kaushaki , Kush Vima , Kumar Chandrakanta , Bhave Anupama , Agarwal Vivek
Published: February 2016

: This study aimed to translate the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS) II Survey Form into Hindi and then adapt and use it in evaluating 3–9 year-old Indian children.

The VABS II was translated to Hindi and its reliability and validity were checked. Then, it was used in a sample of 3–9 year-old children. Adaptive behavior composite (ABC) Scores, domain standard scores (DSS) and maladaptive-v scores (MBI) were compared.

: Out of 433 items, 44 (10.16%) needed adaptation but no satisfactory adaptation could be made for 16 (3.6%). The adapted instrument was proven reliable and valid. Significant differences were found in all domains (except MBI) with higher scores for urban vs. rural children, school-goer vs. non-school-goer, working vs. housewife mothers and higher socioeconomic status (SES), but not between children of joint and nuclear families. Motor development significantly correlated with weight-for-age percentage, which in turn, correlated to the variables studied.

The VABS was satisfactorily translated and adapted for Indian children. In addition, it was found that socioeconomic status significantly affected the social development.
Korean early childhood educators’ self-reported versus observed strategies for addressing challenging behaviors: an exploratory study
Authors: Kim Yeon ha , Stormont Melissa
Published: February 2016

The present study is an extension of past research profiling 34 Korean early childhood educators’ observed behavior support strategies in natural settings. Data regarding their self-reported strategy profiles were additionally collected and compared to their observed strategy profiles. Discrepancies were found between teachers’ reported and observed strategies. Teachers reported that they implemented precorrection and behavioral-specific praise more often than redirection or reprimand/punishment. However, they were observed implementing redirection more often than precorrection and behavioral-specific praise was least frequently implemented. Furthermore, no correlations were found between teachers’ observed and reported strategies. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Migration and Regional Wage Disparities in Germany
Authors: Fendel Tanja
Published: February 2016

This study provides an analysis of the effect of migration and commuting on regional wage disparities in Germany. Using the INKAR dataset and the GSOEP from the years 1998 to 2009, dynamic GMM panel estimations are applied to consider dynamics as well as the simultaneity between migration and regional labor market circumstances. To begin with, the influence of migration on relative wage levels is analyzed. The results show a small positive wage effect due to the overall regional migration balance. However, only domestic migration is relevant for analyzing the influence of migration on regional wage disparities. The wage effect due to domestic migration turns out to be smaller and negative. Regions seem to benefit primary from a combination of internal and foreign migration, however effects are small. Assuming that individuals usually move to high-wage regions, the negative wage effect of German migration would trigger an adjustment mechanism of wage disparities. Therefore, a second dynamic GMM panel estimation tests whether an influence of the regional wage levels on migration exists. Results show no statistically significant effects. An adjustment of existing wage disparities due to migration is not likely to occur in Germany in the next few years.
Life Satisfaction in Germany After Reunification: Additional Insights on the Pattern of Convergence
Authors: Petrunyk Inna , Pfeifer Christian
Published: February 2016

The authors update previous findings on the total East-West gap in overall life satisfaction and its trend by using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) for the years 1992 to 2013. Additionally, the East-West gap and its trend are separately analyzed for men and women as well as for four birth cohorts. The results indicate that reported life satisfaction is on average significantly lower in East than in West German federal states and that part of the raw East-West gap is due to differences in household income and unemployment status. The conditional East-West gap decreased in the first years after the German reunification and remained quite stable and sizeable since the mid-nineties. The results further indicate that gender differences are small. But the East-West gap is significantly smaller and shows a trend towards convergence for younger birth cohorts.
Local Quasi-equilibrium Description of Multiscale Systems
Authors: Santamaría-Holek Iván , Pérez-Madrid Augustin , Miguel Rubí J.
Published: February 2016

Systems whose dynamics result from the existence of a wide variety of time and length scales frequently exhibit slow relaxation behavior, manifested through the aging compartment of the correlations and the nonexponential decay of the response function. Experiments performed in systems such as amorphous polymers and supercooled liquids and glasses seem to indicate that these systems undergo, in general, non-Markovian and nonstationary dynamics. Hence, in this contribution, we present a dynamical description of slow relaxation systems based on a generalization of Onsager’s theory to nonequilibrium aging states. By assuming the existence of a local quasi-equilibrium state characterized by a nonstationary probability distribution the entropy of the system is expressed in terms of the conditional probability density by means of the Gibbs entropy postulate. Thus, by taking into account probability conservation and the rules of nonequilibrium thermodynamics, the generalized Fokker–Planck equation is derived.
Extra-abdominal removal of placenta during cesarean section: a prospective randomized controlled trial of a novel technique
Authors: Kaya Baris , Guralp Onur , Daglar Korkut , Tuten Abdullah , Demirol Aygul , Yayci Eyup , Atacag Tijen , Dogan Askin
Published: February 2016

To evaluate intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes of a novel placenta delivery technique; extra-abdominal removal vs. intra-abdominal removal of the placenta during cesarean section (CS).

A total of 210 women delivering by CS at term in a tertiary university hospital between March 2014 and January 2015 were randomized to extra-abdominal removal vs. intra-abdominal removal of the placenta. The women were randomly allocated to the extra- (group 1) or intra-abdominal removal group (group 2) according to random sampling method, where women with even and odd numbers were allocated to intra- and extra-abdominal groups, respectively. The amount of intra-abdominal hemorrhagic fluid accumulation, the duration of operation and estimated blood loss during operation were the primary outcomes. The secondary outcomes included the mean difference between pre- and post-operative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, the mean postoperative pain score, any additional need of analgesia, postoperative bowel function, postoperative endometritis and wound infections.

The amount of aspirated hemorrhagic fluid was significantly higher in the intra-abdominal group compared to the extra-abdominal group (34.6±22.2 mL vs. 9.4±4.8 mL, P<0.001). Mean duration of the operation, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative requirement of additional analgesia, postoperative pain scores, postoperative endometritis or wound infection, and length of hospital stay were not significantly different between the intra- and extra-abdominal placental removal groups.

By extra-abdominal removal of the placenta, the accumulation of bloody fluid in the abdominal cavity is significantly less compared to the intra-abdominal removal method, which, in turn, provides avoidance of excessive mounted-gauze use, intra-abdominal manipulations, or iatrogenic trauma.
Crystal structure of 4-((pyridin-4-ylmethyl)sulfinyl)pyridine, C11H10N2OS
Authors: Yan Hao-Jie , Wang Zhi-Peng , Zhang Qi-Qi , Chen Wen-Hua
Published: February 2016

C11H10N2OS, monoclinic, Pc (no. 7), a = 12.050(3) Å, b = 5.5218(13) Å, c = 8.1813(19) Å, β = 107.934(6)°, V = 517.9(2) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0483, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1247, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of 5,5′-((4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)methylene)bis(1,3-dimethylpyrimidine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione) – diethylamine – dichloromethane (1/1/1) C25H32Cl2F3N5O6
Authors: Barakat Assem , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Al-Majid Abdullah Mohammed , Quah Ching-Kheng , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: February 2016

C25H32Cl2F3N5O6, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19) a = 11.0768(4) Å, b = 15.6620(5) Å, c = 16.6830(5) Å, V = 2894.25(16) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0509, wR(F
2) = 0.1498, T = 100 K.
Green Chemistry in action: towards sustainable production of Gold nanoparticles
Authors: Mnisi Robert L. , Ndibewu Peter P. , Mokgalaka Ntebogeng S.
Published: February 2016

This study reports the synthesis of gold nanoparticles from a gold precursor salt (HAuCl4·3H2O) using Moringa oleifera bark broth, a cheap renewable material, without adding external surfactant, capping agent or template. Biomolecules responsible for reducing Au3+ to Au0 and stabilization of the resulting nanoparticles were extracted from the bark, and the synthesis was monitored for precursor concentration, percentage broth, pH of reaction media and reaction time. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized using spectroscopic (FTIR and UV-Vis) techniques, advanced microscopic imaging (HRTEM, SEM/EDS), and Zeta potential measurements. Distinct color change from yellow to wine red was observed, indicative of the formation of gold particles at nanoscale. The SPR band was found at around 550 nm, in agreement with conventional synthetic protocols. The particles were stable with a net negative surface charge (–20 mV), a contribution associated with the protein nature of the broth. Addition of Pb2+ to the polydisperse nanoparticle suspension resulted in a color shift, to a faint blue color, coupled with a corresponding SPR shift to higher wavelengths, depending on the concentration of Pb2+ added. This color change is attributed to the aggregation of the colloidal particles due to complexation effects of the metal ions with the biomolecules on the surface of the nanoparticles.
Shedding light on the hydrophobicity puzzle
Authors: Graziano Giuseppe
Published: February 2016

A general theory of hydrophobic hydration and pairwise hydrophobic interaction has been developed in the last years. The main ingredient is the recognition that: (a) cavity creation (necessary to insert a solute molecule into water) causes a solvent-excluded volume effect that leads to a loss in the translational entropy of water molecules; (b) the merging of two cavities (necessary to form the contact minimum configuration of two nonpolar molecules) causes a decrease in the solvent-excluded volume effect and so an increase in the translational entropy of water molecules. The performance of the theoretical approach is tested by reproducing both the hydration thermodynamics of xenon and the thermodynamics associated with the formation of the contact minimum configuration of two xenon atoms, over a large temperature range.
Instrumental neutron activation analysis of Marrubium vulgare L., a valuable medicinal herb
Authors: Nedjimi Bouzid , Beladel Brahim
Published: February 2016

Twenty two chemical elements were identified by Instrumental neutron activation analysis in Marrubium vulgare (Lamiaceae)
a traditional medicine plant, used indigenously in Mediterranean basin to cure several diseases. The precision of the results was
assessed by analyzing the certified reference material GBW 07605 (GSV-4) Tea leaves. Results showed that K was the dominant chemical
element in studied plant (4.40%). The Ca and Fe mass fractions were also relatively high. However potential toxic elements in
this Lamiaceae plant were within the safety limits suggested by WHO/FAO.
Provisioning, Bank Behavior and Financial Crisis: Evidence from GCC Banks
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: February 2016

The debate on bank capital regulation has in recent years devoted specific attention to the role that bank loan loss provisions play as a part of the overall minimum capital regulatory framework. Using data for 1996–2011, we find evidence in favor of both capital management and signaling behavior by GCC banks. Islamic banks appear to engage less in such behavior as compared to their non-Islamic counterparts.
Dating US business cycles with macro factors
Authors: Fossati Sebastian
Published: February 2016

Latent factors estimated from panels of macroeconomic indicators are used to generate recession probabilities for the US economy. The focus is on current (rather than future) business conditions. Two macro factors are considered: (1) a dynamic factor estimated by maximum likelihood from a set of 4 monthly series; (2) the first of eight static factors estimated by principal components using a panel of 102 monthly series. Recession probabilities generated using standard probit, autoregressive probit, and Markov-switching models exhibit very different properties. Overall, a simple Markov-switching model based on the big data macro factor generates the sequence of out-of-sample class predictions that better approximates NBER recession months. Nevertheless, it is shown that the selection of the best performing model depends on the forecaster’s relative tolerance for false positives and false negatives.
On the estimation of short memory components in long memory time series models
Authors: Baillie Richard T. , Kapetanios George
Published: February 2016

A substantial amount of recent time series research has emphasized semi-parameteric estimators of a long memory parameter and we provide a selective review of the literature on this issue. We consider such estimators applied to the issue of estimating the parameters relating to a short memory process which is embedded within the long memory process. We consider the fractional differencing filter and the subsequent properties of a two step estimator of the short memory parameters. We conclude that while the semi-parametric estimators can have excellent properties in terms of estimating the long memory parameter, they do not have good properties when applied to the two step estimator of short memory
Application of a Differential Transform Method to the Transient Natural Convection Problem in a Vertical Tube with Variable Fluid Properties
Authors: Chiba Ryoichi
Published: February 2016

The transient natural convection of a viscous fluid in a heated vertical tube is studied using the two-dimensional differential transform method (DTM). A time-dependent Dirichlet boundary condition is imposed for tube wall temperature. The partial differential equations for the velocity and temperature fields within the tube are solved by the DTM while considering temperature-dependent viscosity and thermal conductivity of the fluid. As a result, tractable solutions in double-series form are derived for the temperature and flow velocity. The transformed functions included in the solutions are obtained through a simple recursive procedure. Numerical results illustrate the effects of temperature-dependent properties on transient temperature and flow behaviour, including the Nusselt number and volumetric flow rate. The DTM gives accurate series solutions without any special functions for nonlinear transient heat transfer problems which are advantageous in finding the derivative or integral.
The VES Hypothesis and Protein Conformational Changes
Authors: Cruzeiro Leonor
Published: February 2016

This work started as a (biased) review of the state of the art of the Davydov/Scott model
for energy transfer in proteins via the propagation of amide I excitations and of how this
initial quantum stage may lead to protein conformational changes. It is not a traditional
review because certain results reported in the literature have been complemented by extra
simulations which revealed, for instance, a new class of possible states for the amide I
excitation, here designated as double discrete breathers. The issue of the thermal stability
of the Davydov soliton is discussed, as well as the deeper question of how to simulate the
non-equilibrium regime of a mixed quantum-classical system at finite temperature. While an
exact answer to the latter question is not yet available, a specific formalism that is able
to reproduce the correct canonical ensemble is described. Finally, the question of how
a quantum amide I excitation can generate of the specific protein conformational changes
known to be associated with function is also explored. Indeed, computer simulations indicate
that a local action can lead to reproducible conformational changes. The paper ends with
a discussion of some of the open questions that plague/stimulate this field and with
a suggestion for an experiment to test the basic assumption of the Davydov/Scott model.