bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study of Sustainability Disclosure Practices of India and USA
Authors: Tuli Siya
Published: June 2017

Sustainable development efforts presented on a piece of paper take the shape of a sustainability report, also labelled as sustainable development report. Sustainability report integrates economic, environmental and social performance of the company into one report. This study compares the sustainable development efforts by companies in developed (USA) and developing (India) nations. The recent sustainability reports from a three-year period that is 2008–2011 of AMEX major market index (USA) and SENSEX companies (India) are studied using content analysis. Independent sample t test and ANOVA have been used to compare the reports of the said countries. The results of the analysis show that companies are now more aware of sustainable development. Out of 20 AMEX major market index companies, 14 companies are providing sustainability information in a separate sustainability report while in case of SENSEX there are 16 companies out of 30 that are producing sustainability reports. In USA greater percentage of companies is disclosing sustainability information, while the quantity of information disclosed as per GRI’s G3 guidelines, in sustainability reports is more in the case of Indian companies.
Book Review: A Grain of Sand in the Hourglass of Time
Authors: Jacob Wallace
Published: June 2017

Arjun Singh, Ashok Chopra, A Grain of Sand in the Hourglass of Time, 2012, India: Hay House, pp. 399, ₹599, (Hardback), ISBN: 9789381431498
Underdeveloped Supply Chain Dynamics of Indian Agriculture: Reference to Information Technology and Knowledge Management
Authors: Parwez Sazzad
Published: June 2017

Agriculture in India is the most important sector for food security and socio-economic development. Agriculture accounted for about 14 per cent of the GDP and employed about 60 per cent of the country’s population. This article tries to explore the problems faced by Indian agriculture for food security in terms of inadequate infrastructure and highly inefficient supply chain in context of information technology (IT). This article examines the critical issues at each sub-system of agriculture supply chain, starting from the input to the consumer, with a view to integrating them in efficient and effective manner. As proper flow of information across the chain constitutes an integral part, the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in improving supply chain efficiency in agriculture is discussed in detail. Thus, this article broadly covers some of the important aspects of agriculture supply chain in India—identification of issues at different levels in the supply chain; transformation in agriculture due to various supply chain interventions; the role of ICTs in supply chain management (SCM)—and the suggestion to improve efficiency at different levels in the supply chain. There is a wide research gap in this sector; having such potential and prospect for overall growth, not much research has been done in this field. The article concludes that ICT plays a very important role for the development and contemporary issues of agriculture; therefore, the government action must address the issue of infrastructure development to achieve the objective of food security for all.
Book Review: Subroto Bagchi, Zen Garden: Conversations with Pathmakers
Authors: Jacob Wallace
Published: June 2017

Subroto Bagchi, Zen Garden: Conversations with Pathmakers, 2013, New Delhi: Penguin Books India Pvt. Ltd., pp. xiv + 328, ₹ 499(hard), ISBN: 9780670087051.
Foreign Direct Investment and Macroeconomic Factors: Evidence from the Indian Economy
Authors: Tripathi Vanita , Seth Ritika , Bhandari Varun
Published: June 2017

Foreign direct investment (FDI) has boosted financial stability, growth and development in India. There has been positive growth rate in GDP since FDI in India has been allowed. FDI has also acted as the resistor during global financial crisis 2008. Many pull factors in India have attracted FDI which include rapidly expanding consumer market, easy access to other neighbouring countries, accessibility to cheaper basic inputs, well-developed and stable banking system and favourable policies for foreign investors, etc.

This article attempts to find out the existence of relationship between FDI and six macroeconomic factors—Exchange rate (₹ per $), Inflation (WPI), GDP/IIP (proxy for Market size), Interest rate (91 days T-bills), Trade Openness and S&P CNX 500 Equity Index (profitability) using monthly and quarterly data for the period starting from July 1997 to December 2011. Apart from using the standard techniques, such as ADF and PP Unit root stationarity test, Bi-variate and Multi-variate Regression analysis and Granger Causality test, we have also applied advanced econometric techniques such as Johansen’s cointegration test, Vector Auto Regression (VAR) and Impulse Response analysis to check for long-run and short-run dynamic relationship.

The results show a significant correlation between FDI and all macroeconomic variables (except for Exchange rate). Causality results show that IIP/GDP, WPI and S&P CNX 500 Equity Index are Granger causing FDI inflows in India while Trade Openness is Granger caused by the same. All the macroeconomic variables taken in the article (except exchange rate) are significantly affecting FDI inflows and the overall explanatory power of the regression model (i.e., Adjusted R square) is 75.7 per cent. The results of Johansen’s cointegration test disclose that there is long-run causal relation between FDI and IIP; FDI and S&P CNX 500 Equity, FDI and Trade Openness and FDI and WPI. VAR and Impulse response function analysis show that FDI is caused more by its own lagged values rather those of other macroeconomic factors.

These results are important for policy makers, regulators and foreign investors. Policy makers and regulators are required to push reform agenda in domestic market for attracting huge FDI inflows in the country. Foreign investors want the policies of the country to be stable and transparent to provide enough safeguard for their investments because instability increases the risk to the foreign investors. Since, we find positive relationship between FDI and profitability, a higher investor’s confidence in domestic market acts as a stimulus in getting more FDI inflows.
Elimination of a Restriction at the Entrance of Barrier Flighted Extruder Screw Sections
Authors: Hyun Kun S. , Spalding Mark A. , Powers Joseph R.
Published: June 2017

Barrier flighted screws have been used for many years to increase rates, to eliminate flow surging due to solid bed break up, to lower melt temperatures, and to minimize temperature fluctuations in the extrudate. For most barrier screws, the melt separation flight starts at a location where the melt pool starts to accumulate. However, if the start of melting occurs downstream from this point, compacted solid polymer can be wedged into the start of the barrier entrance. For some barrier screws, this wedging can lead to a restriction in the flow, decreasing the rate of extrusion by up to 30%. This paper will discuss the phenomenon and show how to eliminate the problem.
Alternative Interpretations of Crystal-Line Phase Infrared Dichroic Data from Polyethylene Blown Films-Comprison with X-Ray Results
Authors: Simpson D. M. , Harrison I. R.
Published: June 2017

High density polyethylene (HDPE) blown films were prepared to examine the effect of increasing take-up ratio (TUR) on crystalline morphology. Infrared dichroic results from those films indicated alignment of the crystalline a-axis along the MD with increasing TUR. While this data concurs with models proposed by previous authors, it conflicts with X-ray scattering results. A model is proposed that rationalizes similar apparent inconsistencies between IR and X-ray data previously reported in the literature.
Rancidity in Packaged Nurs: End-Use Technical Service
Authors: Goode James E. , Soutar Alister M.
Published: June 2017

This paper describes the method used by a technical sales organization in trying to determine the cause of rancidity occurring in packages of nuts. Tests included seal leak detection, oxygen and hexanal headspace analysis, film barrier testing, environmental exposure and visual examination of each package. The conclusion was that the cause of rancidity was an inadequate seal of the packages.
HLA-DP in unrelated hematopoietic cell transplantation revisited: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Fleischhauer Katharina , Shaw Bronwen E.
Published: June 2017

When considering HLA-matched hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), sibling and unrelated donors (UDs) are biologically different because UD-HCT is typically performed across HLA-DP disparities absent in sibling HCT. Mismatched HLA-DP is targeted by direct alloreactive T cell responses with important implications for graft-versus-host disease and graft-versus-leukemia. This concise review details special features of HLA-DP as model antigens for clinically permissive mismatches mediating limited T-cell alloreactivity with minimal toxicity, and describes future avenues for their exploitation in cellular immunotherapy of malignant blood disorders.
A case of lenalidomide-dependent myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Miller Ira J. , Hsu Wei-Tong , Weisberger James , Venugopal Parameswaran
Published: June 2017

Key Points

A man with cytopenias, dysplasia, excess blasts, P53 and RUNX1 mutations, and ring chromosome 7 recovered after stopping lenalidomide.
The Effect of State Taxes on the Geographical Location of Top Earners: Evidence from Star Scientists
Authors: Moretti Enrico , Wilson Daniel J.
Published: June 2017

We quantify how sensitive is migration by star scientists to changes in personal and business tax differentials across states. We uncover large, stable, and precisely estimated effects of personal and corporate taxes on star scientists' migration patterns. The long-run elasticity of mobility relative to taxes is 1.8 for personal income taxes, 1.9 for state corporate income tax, and −1.7 for the investment tax credit. While there are many other factors that drive when innovative individuals and innovative companies decide to locate, there are enough firms and workers on the margin that state taxes matter. (JEL H24, H25, H71, H73, J44, J61, R32)
ОПЫТ ВНЕДРЕНИЯ ПРАКТИКО-ОРИЕНТИРОВАННОГО ПОДХОДА К ОБУЧЕНИЮ В АГРАРНОМ ВУЗЕ
Authors: Antonova Natalia Vladimirovna , Shmeleva Zhanna Nickolaevna
Published: June 2017

Конечной целью образовательного процесса любого вуза является эффективное и успешное трудоустройство выпускников. Неслучайно, именно показатель трудоустройства выпускников учреждений высшего образования является одним из ключевых критериев при мониторинге эффективности вузов. В связи с этим актуальность приобретает практико-ориентированный подход к обучению. Задача авторов статьи заключается в том, чтобы рассказать об опыте внедрения практико-ориентированного подхода в образовательную деятельность института Международного менеджмента и образования Красноярского государственного аграрного университета и представить конкретные результаты начального этапа внедрения данного подхода.
ПОСТРОЕНИЕ СТАТИСТИЧЕСКОЙ МОДЕЛИ ОБЩЕЙ ЧИСЛЕННОСТИ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ НА ОСНОВЕ РЕТРОСПЕКТИВНОГО ПРОГНОЗА
Authors: Kochegarova Ol’ga Sergeevna , Lazhauninkas Julia Vladimirovna
Published: June 2017

В статье рассмотрен ретроспективный прогноз общей численности населения Российской Федерации за период 2001–2017 гг. Проведен сравнительный анализ фактического значения показателя общей численности населения РФ на 20.03.2017 г. по данным Федеральной службы государственной статистики РФ с полученным прогнозным значением. Выбор модели прогнозирования осуществлялся методом подбора кривых роста на основе корреляционно-регрессионного анализа и методом наименьших квадратов. Качественный подбор уравнения регрессии определялся наименьшей ошибкой аппроксимации уровней временного ряда. Анализ значимости подобранного уравнения регрессии статистическими методами позволяет сделать вывод о верном подборе модели и возможности ее использования для прогноза численности населения.Цель: подбор уравнения регрессии для изучения динамики численности населения на основе эмпирических данных и оценка его точности для прогноза численности населения.Метод или методология проведения работы: метод подбора кривых роста на основе корреляционно-регрессионного анализа и метод наименьших квадратов.Результаты: получено подтверждение эффективности построенной модели для прогнозов демографических процессов.Область применения результатов: полученные результаты целесообразно применять при построении прогнозов демографических процессов.
EFFECT OF MICRO-ALLOYING ON QUENCHING BEHAVIOUR OF STEELS FOR BACK-UP ROLLS
Authors: Di Schino Andrea , Richetta Maria
Published: June 2017

The use of micro-alloyed steels for back-up rolls manufacturing gives the possibility to obtain advantages associated with the benefit of the application of micro-alloying elements and thermo-mechanical treatments. In this paper the effect of alloying elements has been evaluated aimed to improve steel hardenability and at the same time to reduce the fabrication cost. 3% Cr and 5% Cr steels are considered with a reduced Mo content. Analysis of alloying on hardenability is performed by means of metallurgical models and on laboratory scale. Results show a higher hardenability in the case of 5% Cr steels. Moreover, such family of steels also show a dependence on prior austenitic grain size. In both the steel families no warnings are detected in terms of residual austenite presence after quenching.
Research roundup: June 2017
Authors: Seal Joanne , Odd Dawn , Brook Judy
Published: June 2017

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles that may be of interest to health visitors is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Gently does it: Evidence-based gentle sleep coaching in health visiting
Authors: Hookway Lyndsey
Published: June 2017

Many parents cite lack of sleep as the single hardest aspect of becoming a parent ( Mindell et al, 2009 ). Chronic sleep deprivation has numerous well-known physical, emotional and psychological effects on children and adults ( Orzel-Gryglewska, 2010 ). Parents who are seeking support for their child's sleep may turn to social media, the internet or popular parenting literature for strategies to deal with disrupted or shortened duration of sleep, and may be unaware of the potential negative consequences this could have on their child's psychological, emotional, and physical wellbeing in the short, medium and long term. Health professionals working with families with young children need to be educated and well-informed about the range of strategies available to parents, and to be able to support them to choose options that are protective of infant and maternal mental health and wellbeing.
Health visitors' perspectives on infant and young child feeding practices: An exploratory study
Authors: Middleton Charlotte , Smyth Rebecca
Published: June 2017

This study explores health visitors' experiences of supporting parents with infant feeding. A constructivist grounded theory approach ( Charmaz, 2014 ) was selected, which informed sampling, data collection and data analysis methods. Three themes were identified: influence of family, culture and ethnicity; big is beautiful; and the influence of health visitors. Participants viewed infant and young child feeding as complex and multifaceted. Misconceptions about weight were described as common, with many parents unable to identify overweight, particularly those from black and ethnic minority (BAME) communities. Health visitors have a key role in supporting families with feeding practices, although peer support was suggested as being potentially beneficial. Future research should focus on the role of health visitors in supporting nutrition in the early years, with particular emphasis on child obesity prevention.
Analytically Sensitive Protein Detection in Microtiter Plates by Proximity Ligation with Rolling Circle Amplification
Authors: Ebai Tonge , Souza de Oliveira Felipe Marques , Löf Liza , Wik Lotta , Schweiger Caroline , Larsson Anders , Keilholtz Ulrich , Haybaeck Johannes , Landegren Ulf , Kamali-Moghaddam Masood
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Detecting proteins at low concentrations in plasma is crucial for early diagnosis. Current techniques in clinical routine, such as sandwich ELISA, provide sensitive protein detection because of a dependence on target recognition by pairs of antibodies, but detection of still lower protein concentrations is often called for. Proximity ligation assay with rolling circle amplification (PLARCA) is a modified proximity ligation assay (PLA) for analytically specific and sensitive protein detection via binding of target proteins by 3 antibodies, and signal amplification via rolling circle amplification (RCA) in microtiter wells, easily adapted to instrumentation in use in hospitals.

METHODS

Proteins captured by immobilized antibodies were detected using a pair of oligonucleotide-conjugated antibodies. Upon target recognition these PLA probes guided oligonucleotide ligation, followed by amplification via RCA of circular DNA strands that formed in the reaction. The RCA products were detected by horseradish peroxidase-labeled oligonucleotides to generate colorimetric reaction products with readout in an absorbance microplate reader.

RESULTS

We compared detection of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-8, p53, and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) by PLARCA and conventional sandwich ELISA or immuno-RCA. PLARCA detected lower concentrations of proteins and exhibited a broader dynamic range compared to ELISA and iRCA using the same antibodies. IL-4 and IL-6 were detected in clinical samples at femtomolar concentrations, considerably lower than for ELISA.

CONCLUSIONS

PLARCA offers detection of lower protein levels and increased dynamic ranges compared to ELISA. The PLARCA procedure may be adapted to routine instrumentation available in hospitals and research laboratories.
Integration of Slack, a cloud-based team collaboration application, into research coordination: a research letter
Authors: Gofine Miriam , Clark Sunday
Published: June 2017

Background: Practitioners of epidemiology require efficient real-time communication and shared access to numerous documents in order to effectively manage a study. Much of this communication involves study logistics and does not require use of Protected Health Information. Slack is a team collaboration app; it archives all direct messages and group conversations, hosts documents internally, and integrates with the Google Docs application. Slack has both desktop and mobile applications, allowing users to communicate in real-time without the need to find email addresses or phone numbers or create contact lists. Method: We piloted the integration of Slack into our research team of one faculty member, one research coordinator, and approximately 20 research assistants. Statistics describing the app’s usage were calculated twelve months after its implementation. Results: Results indicating heavy usage by both research professionals and assistants are presented. our Slack group included a cumulative 51 users. Between October 2015 and November 2016, approximately 10,600 messages were sent through Slack; 53% were sent by RA’s and 47% were sent by us. Of the 106 files stored on Slack, 82% were uploaded by research staff. In a January 2016 survey, 100% of RA’s agreed or strongly agreed that Slack improved communication within the team. Conclusion: We demonstrate a model for integration of communication technology into academic activities by research teams. Slack is easily integrated into the workflow at an urban, academic medical center and is adopted by users as a highly effective tool for meeting research teams’ communication and document management needs.
Multiple level spondylodiscitis with presacral abscess in spinal brucellosis: a rare presentation
Authors: Alexander Lobo , Adukia Sachin , Prajapati Jignesh
Published: June 2017

Importance: We report an unusual presentation of spinal brucellosis involving multilevel spondylodiscitis, prevertebral sacral abscess and isolation of Brucella using a low-yield test like blood culture. Timely identification helped in dispensing the appropriate antibiotic regimen.Observation:Detailed history against an endemic background may give clues to diagnosis of brucellosis. A middle aged farmer from rural India with exposure to cattle excreta presented with severe lower backache and asymmetric paraparesis. Examination revealed proximal lower limb weakness, sensory deficits over L1-L2 dermatomes, sensory level at L1 vertebral level and lumbosacral spinal tenderness with paravertebral muscle spasms. MRI spine with contrast showed multi-level infective spondylodiscitis with a prevertebral sacral abscess. Blood culture helped isolate Brucella melitensis after 8 days. Following this the antibiotic regimen was modified to a twelve month triple therapy with rifampicin, doxycycline and double strength cotrimoxazole.Conclusions and Relevance: Longstanding backache with fever in endemic areas should trigger a differential diagnosis of spinal brucellosis. Though newer diagnostic techniques like ELISA, MRI and agglutination tests are being increasingly used, isolation of Brucella on culture media is still a vital investigation. Diagnosis of brucellosis is vital owing to its potential treatability.
SERVIÇO DE ATENDIMENTO FARMACÊUTICO AO IDOSO: PERSPECTIVA E PROPOSTAS
Authors: Santos Sandna Larissa Freitas dos , Pessoa Cinara Vidal , Alves Hérick Hebert da Silva , Borges Romênio Nogueira , Nogueira Torres Barros Karla Bruna
Published: June 2017

O estudo teve como objetivo averiguar a perspectiva do profissional farmacêutico em realizar ações educativas para idosos da casa de apoio Remanso da Paz, Quixadá, CE. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, analítico, transversal, consistindo em uma abordagem quanti-qualitativa, realizado no mês de junho de 2016 com 23 idosos (57% mulheres).Os encontros aconteceram por meio de palestras informativas e educativas, através de um projeto de extensão SAFI - Serviço de Atendimento Farmacêutico ao paciente idoso pelos estudantes de Farmácia do Centro Universitário Católica de Quixadá. Dentre os temas abordados estavam: uso racional de medicamentos, uso de preparações caseiras de plantas medicinais, diabetes e hipertensão, problemas reumáticos, doenças cardiovasculares e respiratórias, e sedentarismo/alimentação. Foi realizada uma entrevista com um questionário correspondendo ao perfil sócio econômico dos idosos,e a informações sobre os medicamentos prescritos, bem como os utilizados pela prática da automedicação. Os idosos estavam na faixa etária entre 60 a 81 anos de idade, diagnosticados com hipertensão (50%), gastrite (19%), e diabetes (16%). A prática da automedicação foi relatada por 9 (40%) idosos e não foi mencionado efeito adverso causado pelo uso de medicamentos. Dentre o número total de 10 medicamentos 80% eram AINES com as queixas de uso entre dores de cabeça e no corpo. O farmacêutico foi visto como fonte de orientação sobre o uso de medicamentos em 13%. Com isso, ficou ressaltada a importância da orientação de ações de qualidade de vida ao idoso e a importância da atuação do Farmacêutico na saúde desse estrato da população.
Left Internal Thoracic Artery Graft to Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery after Blunt-Chest-Trauma Myocardial Infarction: 14-Year Outcome
Authors: Evora Paulo Roberto B. , Romano Minna Moreira D. , Tannus de Souza Gabriela B. , Wada Danilo T. , Schmidt André , Rodrigues Alfredo José
Published: June 2017

In 2005, we reported an acute myocardial infarction secondary to a left anterior descending coronary artery injury sustained in a motorcycle accident. The treatment was late myocardial revascularization with in situ left internal thoracic artery-to-left anterior descending coronary artery anastomosis. There is little information available about the natural history of acute myocardial infarction after blunt chest trauma, especially when treated in this manner. This present communication reports the 14-year outcome in our patient.
Modified Port-Access Technique for the Treatment of Aortic Dissection after Previous Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Prifti Edvin , Demiraj Aurel , Xhaxho Roland
Published: June 2017

One of the most challenging conditions to manage after previous cardiac surgery is chronic dissection of the ascending aorta. We operated on a 54-year-old man who had aortic dissection in addition to large aortic dimensions very close to the sternum, severe aortic regurgitation, and a false lumen in the descending aorta. We used a combination of perfusion and myocardial protection techniques, arising from port-access technology, that enabled antegrade flow into the aorta, endoclamping of the ascending aorta, the administration of cardioplegic solution before opening the sternum, and left ventricular venting to prevent ventricular distention. Our technique resulted in minimal blood loss, shorter circulatory-arrest and operative times, the ability to operate on a decompressed heart and descending aorta, good myocardial protection, and easier and safer access to the heart. Three years postoperatively, our patient was doing well.

Other patients might benefit from this approach; however, the surgeon must ensure that an aortic segment is suitable for endoclamping.
MSPD as sample preparation method for determination of selected pesticide residues in apples
Authors: Purdešová Andrea , Dömötorová Milena
Published: June 2017

A method for extraction and fast gas chromatographic (GC) determination of twenty pesticide residues of different volatility and polarity at ultratrace concentration level in apples is presented. Apples as representatives of non-fatty food were chosen as a matrix; they are also a common raw material for baby food production. Under fast GC conditions employing a mass spectrometric detector (MSD), several parameters of the MSPD procedure were optimised. Samples were homogenised with sorbent Florisil, pesticides were eluted with the optimised volume of etylacetate. After solvent evaporation to dryness, reconstitution of the rest to toluene follow and the final extract was injected. Recoveries obtained at three selected concentration levels were determined. The optimised procedure led to recoveries ≥ 90 % for the majority of the studied pesticides and the limits of quantification (LOQs) < 5 μg.kg-1. Repeatability of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) measurements of the matrix matched standards, expressed as the relative standard deviation (RSD [%]), was in most cases acceptable for ultratrace concentration levels of pesticide residues.
Cyclic flow shop scheduling problem with two-machine cells
Authors: Bożejko Wojciech , Gnatowski Andrzej , Idzikowski Radosław , Wodecki Mieczysław
Published: June 2017

In the paper a variant of cyclic production with setups and two-machine cell is considered. One of the stages of the problem solving consists of assigning each operation to the machine on which it will be carried out. The total number of such assignments is exponential. We propose a polynomial time algorithm finding the optimal operations to machines assignment.
A brief review on the mode of action of antinematodal drugs
Authors: Abongwa Melanie , Martin Richard J. , Robertson Alan P.
Published: June 2017

Anthelmintics are some of the most widely used drugs in veterinary medicine. Here we review the mechanism of action of these compounds on nematode parasites. Included are the older classes of compounds; the benzimidazoles, cholinergic agonists and macrocyclic lactones. We also consider newer anthelmintics, including emodepside, derquantel and tribendimidine. In the absence of vaccines for most parasite species, control of nematode parasites will continue to rely on anthelmintic drugs. As a consequence, vigilance in detecting drug resistance in parasite populations is required. Since resistance development appears almost inevitable, there is a continued and pressing need to fully understand the mode of action of these compounds. It is also necessary to identify new drug targets and drugs for the continued effective control of nematode parasites.
Pulmonary Valve Insufficiency as a Complication of Radical Surgical Treatment of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Stojanović Milovan , Deljanin-Ilić Marina , Vuković Aleksa , Petrović Dejan
Published: June 2017

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanogenic congenital heart defect. The diagnosis is based on clinical signs, ECG examination, ultrasound examination of the heart, additional imaging methods and invasive testing. The therapeutic approach to the patient with tetralogy is complex and based on conservative and radical methods. Patients who have not undergone a radical surgical intervention have a poor prognosis, whereas the prognosis is much better for patients who have been operated. The most common complication of the surgical treatment is the pulmonary valve insufficiency which usually requires reintervention, as was the case with our patient.
Impact of the Irrigation Dose Amount on the Wheat Yield
Authors: Bieniek Jerzy , Mielnicki Marek , Romański Leszek , Komarnicki Piotr
Published: June 2017

The paper presents analysis of the impact of irrigation dose on the winter wheat Bystra yield, which is recommended for cultivation in Poland. It is a low-growing high-yield wheat cultivar. A reel sprinkler equipped with a computer for control of parameters of its operation, which was supplied with pond water was used for irrigation. Test were carried out on five fields, where four irrigation doses were used: 15, 20, 25, 30 mm. A change of weather during research in May and June caused the need to irrigate a field four times. During research, the size of the irrigation dose was measured with rain gauges on each of the investigated fields in five measurement points. One of the fields was a control field, which was not irrigated. The investigated wheat was characterized during harvesting. Research proved that the size of the irrigation dose influences the wheat yield. The grain yield between a control field and a field with the highest irrigation dose increased by twofold. Moreover, analysis of costs incurred during sprinkling were analysed.
Geometrical Model of Lemon Fruit
Authors: Mieszkalski Leszek
Published: June 2017

A proposal of a mathematical method of modelling of the lemon shape with Bézier's curves was presented. Lisbon, Verna, Genoa lemon cultivars were selected for verification of the modelling method. The lemon contour, which is its meridian, was described with three smoothly combined Bézier's curves. Pictures taken in 10 locations changing every 36o were the basis for description of lemon contours. Bézier's curves, which approximate meridians located on the surface of lemons, are their 3D models. The presented method may be applied for mathematical modelling of the lemon shape.
GNSS Antenna Caused Near-Field Interference Effect in Precise Point Positioning Results
Authors: Dawidowicz Karol , Baryła Radosław
Published: June 2017

Results of long-term static GNSS observation processing adjustment prove that the often assumed “averaging multipath effect due to extended observation periods” does not actually apply. It is instead visible a bias that falsifies the coordinate estimation. The comparisons between the height difference measured with a geometrical precise leveling and the height difference provided by GNSS clearly verify the impact of the near-field multipath effect.

The aim of this paper is analysis the near-field interference effect with respect to the coordinate domain. We demonstrate that the way of antennas mounting during observation campaign (distance from nearest antennas) can cause visible changes in pseudo-kinematic precise point positioning results. GNSS measured height differences comparison revealed that bias of up to 3 mm can be noticed in Up component when some object (additional GNSS antenna) was placed in radiating near-field region of measuring antenna. Additionally, for both processing scenario (GPS and GPS/GLONASS) the scattering of results clearly increased when additional antenna crosses radiating near-field region of measuring antenna. It is especially true for big choke ring antennas. In short session (15, 30 min.) the standard deviation was about twice bigger in comparison to scenario without additional antenna. When we used typical surveying antennas (short near-field region radius) the effect is almost invisible. In this case it can be observed the standard deviation increase of about 20%. On the other hand we found that surveying antennas are generally characterized by lower accuracy than choke ring antennas. The standard deviation obtained on point with this type of antenna was bigger in all processing scenarios (in comparison to standard deviation obtained on point with choke ring antenna).
Awareness of Improved Hatchery Management Practices among Fish Farmers in Lagos State
Authors: Digun-Aweto Oghenetejiri , Oladele Ademuyiwa Hafiz
Published: June 2017

During the last decade, hatchery infrastructure and table fish production systems have been exclusively targeted towards catfish production in Nigeria. These efforts have not translated to sufficient domestic fish production. The shortfall in demand for fish fry and fingerlings by growing population of fish farms in Lagos State confirms the fish seed production deficiency. This study investigated the level of awareness of improved hatchery management practices among fish farmers in Lagos State. Using simple random sampling method, 150 fish farmers from 12 local government areas of Lagos State were selected and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The majority of the respondents were male (68 %) and married (76.6 %), with dominant age range of 41–50 years (55.3 %) and a farming experience of 5–10 years (68 %). Personal saving (46.7 %) and cooperative societies (31.3 %) were the respondents’ main sources of fund and fortnight visits by extension agent was of commonest frequency (86 %). Extension agents and research institutes ranked first and second, respectively, among the sources of information, and accounted for the main sources of information to the farmers. The farmers either strongly agreed or agreed on almost all the hatchery management practices, while they expressed their need for advisory and input support services from government and non-governmental organizations. The significant relationship which exists between age and marital status, and farmers’ awareness shows that greater communication of improved hatchery management practices will lead to adoption, thereby increasing the output of the farmers. Improved hatchery output will lead to greater availability of fish seeds for table size production as well as greater income to the fish farmers. In addition to more intensive extension efforts, other channels of information notably mass media should be revitalized in delivering improved management practices to the fish farmers.
Stability of fractional positive continuous-time linear systems with state matrices in integer and rational powers
Authors: Kaczorek T.
Published: June 2017

The stability of fractional standard and positive continuous-time linear systems with state matrices in integer and rational powers is addressed. It is shown that the fractional systems are asymptotically stable if and only if the eigenvalues of the state matrices satisfy some conditions imposed on the phases of the eigenvalues. The fractional standard systems are unstable if the state matrices have at least one positive eigenvalue.
Review on Big Data & Analytics – Concepts, Philosophy, Process and Applications
Authors: Venkatram Kari , Geetha Mary A.
Published: June 2017

Big Data analytics has been the main focus in all the industries today. It is not overstating that if an enterprise is not using Big Data analytics, it will be a stray and incompetent in their businesses against their Big Data enabled competitors. Big Data analytics enables business to take proactive measure and create a competitive edge in their industry by highlighting the business insights from the past data and trends. The main aim of this review article is to quickly view the cutting-edge and state of art work being done in Big Data analytics area by different industries. Since there is an overwhelming interest from many of the academicians, researchers and practitioners, this review would quickly refresh and emphasize on how Big Data analytics can be adopted with available technologies, frameworks, methods and models to exploit the value of Big Data analytics.
Study of kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) and its complex with α1-antitrypsin in biological fluids
Authors: Korbakis Dimitrios , Soosaipillai Antoninus , Diamandis Eleftherios P.
Published: June 2017

Background:

Human kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) is a member of the kallikrein family of serine proteases. KLK6 is synthesized as a preproenzyme, mainly in tissues of the central nervous system (CNS), and secreted as an inactive precursor. Serum KLK6 is a biomarker of unfavorable prognosis for ovarian cancer, but its sensitivity for early detection is relatively low. Differential glycosylation of KLK6 has been identified in ascites fluid obtained from ovarian cancer patients, suggesting the presence of unique KLK6 isoforms in biological samples.

Methods:

In the present study, we applied a two-step enrichment approach for KLK6 in ovarian cancer ascites, followed by mice immunization and production of monoclonal antibodies. Immunoaffinity techniques coupled to mass spectrometric methods were employed for hybridoma screening and target antigen identification.

Results:

We found that the main target of the newly-generated monoclonal antibodies target was the serine protease inhibitor α

Conclusions:

We conclude that KLK6 is present in biological fluids either as free form, or bound to A1AT, and the bound form performs better than total KLK6 as a biomarker of ovarian carcinoma.
Ellipse and Oval in Baroque Sacral Architecture in Slovakia
Authors: Grúňová Zuzana , Holešová Michaela
Published: June 2017

Oval, circular and elliptic forms appear in the architecture from the very beginning. The basic problem of the geometric analysis of the spaces with an elliptic or oval ground plan is a great sensitivity of the outcome calculations to the plan's precision, mainly to distinguish between oval and ellipse. Sebastiano Serlio and Guarino Guarini belong to those architects, theoreticians, who analysed the potential of circular or oval forms and some of their ideas are analysed in the paper. Elliptical or oval plans were used also in Slovak baroque architecture or interior elements and the paper introduce some of the most known examples as a connection to the world architecture ideas.
Spectral Analysis Of Business Cycles In The Visegrad Group Countries
Authors: Kijek Arkadiusz
Published: June 2017

This paper examines the business cycle properties of Visegrad group countries. The main objective is to identify business cycles in these countries and to study the relationships between them. The author applies a modification of the Fourier analysis to estimate cycle amplitudes and frequencies. This allows for a more precise estimation of cycle characteristics than the traditional approach. The cross-spectral analysis of GDP cyclical components for the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia makes it possible to assess the degree of business cycle synchronization between the countries.
Economic Cooperation Between The European Union And Japan
Authors: Drzymała Agnieszka
Published: June 2017

The aim of the paper is to show the history of economic relations between the European Union and Japan. This economy is very important to the EU and the countries of the EU are interested in further deepening areas of cooperation. Therefore it seems important to indicate the political will to continue mutual economic relations through the signing of contracts and bilateral agreements, as well as meetings at various levels, including SPA and EPA negotiations and summits. The course of the current economic cooperation will be shown through trade volume and foreign direct investment outflows from the European Union to Japan.
Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of extracts and flavonoids obtained from Bunium alpinum Waldst. & Kit. (Apiaceae) and Tamarix gallica L. (Tamaricaceae)
Authors: Lefahal Mostefa , Zaabat Nabila , Djarri Lakhdar , Benahmed Merzoug , Medjroubi Kamel , Laouer Hocine , Akkal Salah
Published: June 2017

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of extracts and four flavonoids that had been isolated from the aerial parts of Bunium alpinum Waldst. et Kit. (Apiaceae) and Tamarix gallica L. (Tamaricaceae). In this work, the four flavonoids were first extracted via various solvents, then purified through column chromatography (CC) and thin layer chromatography (TLC). The four compounds were subsequently identified by spectroscopic methods, including: UV, mass spectrum 1H NMR and 13C NMR. The EtOAc extract of Bunium alpinum Waldst. et Kit yielded quercetin-3-O-β-glucoside (3’,4’,5,7-Tetrahydroxyflavone-3-β-D-glucopyranoside) (1), while the EtOAc and n-BuOH extracts of Tamarix gallica L. afforded 3,5,3’-trihydroxy-7,4’-dimethoxyflavone (2), 3,5,7-trihydroxy-4’-methoxyflavone (3) and 5-hydroxy-3,7,4’-trimethoxyflavone (4). The antioxidant activity of the extracts and the flavonoids were then evaluated through DPPH free radical-scavenging assay. Of all studied extracts, the n-Butanol extract of Bunium alpinum (EC50 = 1.84 μg/ml) showed the best antioxidant activity against (DPPH). In contrast, the isolates demonstrated varying degrees of antioxidant activity: compound (1) was the more active (EC50 = 0.28 μg/ml), followed by compound (3) and (2) (EC50 = 0.309μg/ml, EC50 = 0.406 μg/ml, respectively), compound (4) showed the lowest activity. All the isolated flavonoids exhibited antioxidant activity, but this was lower than the control (Trolox). In conclusion, due to the presence of flavonoids in their ariel parts, the studied plants could be natural sources of several important antioxidant agents
The condition of oral mucosa in the elderly (over 65 years) of Lublin
Authors: Kaminska-Pikiewicz Katarzyna , Chalas Renata , Bachanek Teresa
Published: June 2017

Mucous membrane defense mechanisms are impaired with age, both immunologically and physically. This decreases oral mucosa regenerative capability and results in greater susceptibility to injuries and microbial and fungal colonization. Pathological changes of the mucous membrane should be diagnosed and treated early, as some may develop into cancerous changes. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are essential, especially in old age. The aim of the study was to assess the condition of the oral mucosa in seniors residing in either Lublin Nursing Homes (LNH) or in home care. The study was conducted among 240 people over the age of 65: 117 LNH residents and 123 seniors living independently. The assessment of oral mucosa was conducted via clinical examination so as to see evidence of pathological change. On the base of the performed examination, pathological changes of the oral mucosa were observed in 43.59% of all LNH residents and in 34.96% of all seniors living in home care (independently). In both groups, atrophic glossitis, candidiasis (in susp.) and stomatitis prothetica were most frequently noted. Hence, it can be said that the condition of the oral mucosa of the examined seniors from Lublin is unsatisfactory.
Characterization of oxides formed on iron-chromium-aluminum alloy in simulated light water reactor environments
Authors: Rebak Raul B. , Larsen Michael , Kim Young-Jin
Published: June 2017

To avoid accidents like that in Fukushima, the US Department of Energy is engaged with a nuclear fuel vendor to evaluate the performance of iron-chromium-aluminum (FeCrAl) alloys such as advanced powder metallurgy tubing (APMT) as accident-tolerant material for uranium dioxide fuel cladding in light water reactors (LWR). It was important to characterize the oxides formed on APMT under both boiling water reactor (BWR) and pressurized water reactor (PWR) environments for a better understanding of its environmental sustainability in LWRs. Coupons of APMT were exposed for 1 year to both hydrogenated and oxygenated high-purity water at 288°C (e.g. simulated BWR water chemistry without Pt injection) and hydrogenated high-purity water at 330°C (e.g. simulated primary PWR water chemistry without Li/B addition). Results show that after 1-year immersion, APMT always developed a chromium-rich protective oxide film on its surface. In oxygen-containing environments, the oxide consisted of a dual layer, an external thicker layer containing mostly iron oxides and a thinner internal layer rich in chromium oxide. In hydrogen environments, only a single oxide layer formed, consisting of chromium oxide. This is a similar finding as for type 304 and 316 stainless steels and for nickel-based alloy 600, which is extensively reported in the literature. General corrosion of APMT alloys under LWR operating conditions would not be a limiting factor for its performance as cladding material.
Nonparametric estimation of simplified vine copula models: comparison of methods
Authors: Nagler Thomas , Schellhase Christian , Czado Claudia
Published: June 2017

In the last decade, simplified vine copula models have been an active area of research. They build a high dimensional probability density from the product of marginals densities and bivariate copula densities. Besides parametric models, several approaches to nonparametric estimation of vine copulas have been proposed. In this article, we extend these approaches and compare them in an extensive simulation study and a real data application. We identify several factors driving the relative performance of the estimators. The most important one is the strength of dependence. No method was found to be uniformly better than all others. Overall, the kernel estimators performed best, but do worse than penalized B-spline estimators when there is weak dependence and no tail dependence.
Philosophy as the Wisdom of Love
Authors: Cicovacki Predrag
Published: June 2017

The author argues that love should play a central role in philosophy (and ethics). In the past, philosophical practice has been too narrowly defined by theory and explanation. Although unquestionably important, they do not belong to the very core of our philosophizing. Philosophy is primarily a way of life, centered on the soul and the development of our humanity – in its most diverse aspects and to its utmost potential. For such a life to be possible, love must play a central role in philosophy and philosophy should be understood not in the traditional sense as “the love of wisdom,” but in a new way – as the wisdom of love.
Egalitarian Sexism: A Kantian Framework for Assessing the Cultural Evolution of Marriage (I)
Authors: Palmquist Stephen R.
Published: June 2017

This first part of a two-part series exploring implications of the natural differences between the sexes for the cultural evolution of marriage assesses whether Kant should be condemned as a sexist due to his various offensive claims about women. Being antithetical to modern-day assumptions regarding the equality of the sexes, Kant’s views seem to contradict his own egalitarian ethics. A philosophical framework for making cross-cultural ethical assessments requires one to assess those in other cultures by their own ethical standards. Sexism is inappropriate if it exhibits or reinforces a tendency to dominate the opposite sex. Kant’s theory of marriage, by contrast, illustrates how sexism can be egalitarian: given the natural differences between the sexes, different roles and cultural norms help to ensure that females and males are equal. Judged by the standards of his own day and in the context of his philosophical system, Kant’s sexism is not ethically inappropriate.