bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of older mobile phone users towards mobile phones
Authors: Vicente Paula , Lopes Inês
Published: March 2016

Research on mobile technology adoption has focused predominantly on young adults, and little attention has been paid to older people. But with rapidly aging populations in most developed countries, and evidence from many studies that older adults are as capable of adopting and using mobile technology as everybody else, the academic, business and technology industry worlds are devoting more attention to this group. Research has already demonstrated that older people differ from young people in their perceptions, preferences and usage of mobile technology, but there are also differences within the older adults group regarding mobile technology adoption. Using data from a mobile phone survey, this study identifies segments of mobile phone users among older adults based on their attitudes towards mobile phones, and describes the underlying differences between these segments in terms of key values towards mobile phone communications, mobile phone use, and socio-demographics. The analysis led to the identification of three distinct segments, designated as “Apathetic”, “Social and hedonic” and “Busy and active”.
Late adopters can be fast: The case of digital television
Authors: Vejlgaard Henrik
Published: March 2016

A nation-wide, in-process study of digital television adoption shows what happens to the innovation-decision period when there is a deadline for phasing-out obsolete technology and simultaneously introducing a new continuing technology. In studies without a deadline the innovation-decision period gets longer with time. In this study, with a deadline the innovation-decision period gets shorter with time. If there is a clear-cut date for discontinuing an analogue service and introducing a new continuing digital service, late adopters can act fast and adopt the new digital technology in time for a deadline. This is contrary to their normal behavior. In the classic diffusion research late adopters were both socially and communicatively isolated. It is suggested that today late adopters may be socially – but not communicatively – isolated.
Effect of intercropping carrot (Daucus carota L.) with two aromatic plants, coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.), on the population density of select carrot pests
Authors: Jankowska Beata , Wojciechowicz-Żytko Elżbieta
Published: March 2016

Intercropping, or the use of different aspects of the interaction between organisms in ecosystems, can be classified as an ecological method that limits harmful human interference in the environment, especially the consumption of chemicals. The impact of intercropping carrot with coriander Coriandrum sativum L. and summer savory Satureja hortensis L. on the occurrence of select carrot pests was estimated in the years 2010-2011. Intercropping had a significant effect on the decrease of the number of roots damaged by carrot rust fly Psila rosae. During harvest, the least number of damaged roots was observed in combination with summer savory S. hortensis L. The number of carrot psyllid Trioza viridula Zett. and aphids on carrot leaves and roots damaged by nematodes was significantly lower on plots where carrot was intercropped. Intercropping both herbs had a positive influence on the number of beneficial insects. In all of the years of the study, the highest number of Coccinellidae and Syrphidae were observed on plots where carrot was intercropped with coriander.
Review: Monoclonal Antibody Drugs for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus / Моноклональные Антитела При Лечении Системной Красной Волчанки
Authors: Kamenarska Zornitsa G. , Hristova Maria H. , Vinkov Anton I. , Dourmishev Lyubomir A.
Published: March 2016

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease which engages most of the immune cells in its development. Various studies concerning the application of antibodies against TNF-α, BlyS, CD20, CD22, IL-6R and complement factors in treatment of SLE have been recently conducted and in spite of the good results reported by some of them, no definite conclusion on their risk-benefit profile can be drawn. The current review summarizes the results obtained in the field and reveals the perspectives for the development of new and more effective strategies for SLE treatment in combination with other immunomodulating drugs.
Clinical Investigations. Comparison of Directigen Flu A+B with Real Time PCR in the Diagnosis of Influenza / Сравнение Иммунохроматографического Метода (Directigen Flu A+B) И Теста RT-PCR При Инфекциях Гриппа
Authors: Bosevska Golubinka , Panovski Nikola , Janceska Elizabeta , Mikik Vladimir , Topuzovska Irena Kondova , Milenkovik Zvonko
Published: March 2016

Early diagnosis and treatment of patients with influenza is the reason why physicians need rapid high-sensitivity influenza diagnostic tests that require no complex lab equipment and can be performed and interpreted within 15 min. The Aim of this study was to compare the rapid Directigen Flu A+B test with real time PCR for detection of influenza viruses in the Republic of Macedonia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One-hundred-eight respiratory samples (combined nose and throat swabs) were routinely collected for detection of influenza virus during influenza seasons. Forty-one patients were pediatric cases and 59 were adult. Their mean age was 23 years. The patients were allocated into 6 age groups: 0 - 4 yrs, 5 - 9 yrs, 10 - 14 yrs, 15 - 19 yrs, 20-64 yrs and > 65 yrs. Each sample was tested with Directigen Flu A+B and CDC real time PCR kit for detection and typisation/subtypisation of influenza according to the lab diagnostic protocol. RESULTS: Directigen Flu A+B identified influenza A virus in 20 (18.5%) samples and influenza B virus in two 2 (1.9%) samples. The high specificity (100%) and PPV of Directigen Flu A+B we found in our study shows that the positive results do not need to be confirmed. The overall sensitivity of Directigen Flu A+B is 35.1% for influenza A virus and 33.0% for influenza B virus. The sensitivity for influenza A is higher among children hospitalized (45.0%) and outpatients (40.0%) versus adults. CONCLUSION: Directigen Flu A+B has relatively low sensitivity for detection of influenza viruses in combined nose and throat swabs. Negative results must be confirmed.
Dental Investigations. Impact Of Dental Anxiety On The Decision To Have Implant Treatment / Влияние Стоматологической Тревожности На Выбор Имплантологического Лечения
Authors: Lalabonova Christina K.
Published: March 2016

INTRODUCTION: Dental implants are increasingly used in modern dentistry as anchors for prosthetic restorations. Anxiety is a complex phenomenon which can become a risk factor for suppression of many functions of the body. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect dental anxiety exerts on the choice of method of treatment by patients wanting to have dental implants. Materials and methods: The study included 174 patients that were referred to us for dental implants placement because of partial or total loss of teeth. Their dental anxiety was measured using the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) proposed by Norman Corah. The patients decided to have or refused to have treatment with dental implants either because they had dental anxiety or gave other reasons. Results: Distribution of patients by level of anxiety was as follows: 33% were anxiety free, in 34% the dental anxiety was moderate, 25% had severe anxiety, and 8% experienced an extremely severe anxiety. Dental fear was given as a reason for refusal of treatment by 24.1% of the patients wanting to have dental implants. Of the patients wanting to have dental implants, 40.8% decided to proceed with the treatment; these patients exhibited low dental anxiety. Conclusion: The decision to have dental treatment with implants is affected by the patient’s level of dental anxiety. Only those with low level of dental anxiety decide to proceed with such a treatment. The mild anxiety some patients experience is beneficial as it eliminates a risk factor that may hinder the process of osseointegration.
Cross-Cultural Validation of the Definition of Multimorbidity in the Bulgarian Language / Культуральная Валидность Определения Полиморбидности В Болгарском Языке
Authors: Assenova Radost S. , Le Reste Jean Yves , Foreva Gergana H. , Mileva Daniela S. , Czachowski Slawomir , Sowinska Agnieszka , Nabbe Patrice , Argyriadou Stella , Lazic Djurdjica , Hasaganic Melida , Lingner Heidrun , Lygidakis Harris , Muñoz Miguel-Angel , Claveria Ana , Doerr Chista , Van Marwijk Harm , Van Royen Paul , Lietard Claire
Published: March 2016

INTRODUCTION: Multimorbidity is a health issue with growing importance. During the last few decades the populations of most countries in the world have been ageing rapidly. Bulgaria is affected by the issue because of the high prevalence of ageing population in the country with multiple chronic conditions. The AIM of the present study was to validate the translated definition of multimorbidity from English into the Bulgarian language. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is part of an international project involving 8 national groups. We performed a forward and backward translation of the original English definition of multimorbidity using a Delphi consensus procedure. RESULTS: The physicians involved accepted the definition with a high percentage of agreement in the first round. The backward translation was accepted by the scientific committee using the Nominal group technique. DISCUSSION: Some of the GPs provided comments on the linguistic expressions which arose in order to improve understanding in Bulgarian. The remarks were not relevant to the content. The conclusion of the discussion, using a meta-ethnographic approach, was that the differences were acceptable and no further changes were required. CONCLUSIONS: A native version of the published English multimorbidity definition has been finalized. This definition is a prerequisite for better management of multimorbidity by clinicians, researchers and policy makers.
Winter foraging of chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii) in Central Iran
Authors: Akbari Hassan , Moradi Hosein Varasteh , Rezaie Hamid-Reza , Baghestani Naser
Published: March 2016

Diet selection and forage quality of chinkara (
An On-Line Method for Thermal Diffusivity Detection of Thin Films Using Infrared Video
Authors: Dong Huilong , Zheng Boyu , Chen Feifan
Published: March 2016

A novel method for thermal diffusivity evolution of thin-film materials with pulsed Gaussian beam and infrared video is reported. Compared with common pulse methods performed in specialized labs, the proposed method implements a rapid on-line measurement without producing the off-centre detection error. Through mathematical deduction of the original heat conduction model, it is discovered that the area s, which is encircled by the maximum temperature curve rTMAX(θ), increases linearly over elapsed time. The thermal diffusivity is acquired from the growth rate of the area s. In this study, the off-centre detection error is avoided by performing the distance regularized level set evolution formulation. The area s was extracted from the binary images of temperature variation rate, without inducing errors from determination of the heat source centre. Thermal diffusivities of three materials, 304 stainless steel, titanium, and zirconium have been measured with the established on-line detection system, and the measurement errors are: −2.26%, −1.07%, and 1.61% respectively.
Metrological Analysis of Precision of the System of Delivering a Water Capsule for Explosive Production of Water Aerosol
Authors: Śmigielski Grzegorz , Toczek Wojciech , Dygdała Roman , Stefański Krzysztof
Published: March 2016

In this paper precision of the system controlling delivery by a helicopter of a water capsule designed for extinguishing large scale fires is analysed. The analysis was performed using a numerical method of distribution propagation (the Monte Carlo method) supplemented with results of application of the uncertainty propagation method. In addition, the optimum conditions for the airdrop are determined to ensure achieving the maximum area covered by the water capsule with simultaneous preserving the precision level necessary for efficient fire extinguishing.
Static Characteristics of Air Gauges Applied in the Roundness Assessment
Authors: Jermak Czesław J. , Rucki Mirosław
Published: March 2016

In the article, analysis of the work conditions and the metrological characteristics of the air gauges dedicated for the roundness assessment is described. To reach the required accuracy of the acquired data, the phenomena of gas dynamics had to be analyzed in the whole flow through elements of the air gauge. A model based on the second critical parameters was used, because it reflects the true processes of the air flow. As a result, fast and accurate simulations provided series of the characteristics to be considered. Nevertheless, the chosen air gauge configuration underwent the experimental verification of its metrological characteristics. Finally, the entire measurement system Geoform with the gauge head based on the chosen air gauges underwent the accuracy test in order to make sure of its overall measurement quality.
Ants Colony Optimisation of a Measuring Path of Prismatic Parts on a CMM
Authors: Stojadinovic Slavenko M. , Majstorovic Vidosav D. , Durakbasa Numan M. , Sibalija Tatjana V.
Published: March 2016

This paper presents optimisation of a measuring probe path in inspecting the prismatic parts on a CMM. The optimisation model is based on: (i) the mathematical model that establishes an initial collision-free path presented by a set of points, and (ii) the solution of Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP) obtained with Ant Colony Optimisation (ACO). In order to solve TSP, an ACO algorithm that aims to find the shortest path of ant colony movement (i.e. the optimised path) is applied. Then, the optimised path is compared with the measuring path obtained with online programming on CMM ZEISS UMM500 and with the measuring path obtained in the CMM inspection module of Pro/ENGINEER®software. The results of comparing the optimised path with the other two generated paths show that the optimised path is at least 20% shorter than the path obtained by on-line programming on CMM ZEISS UMM500, and at least 10% shorter than the path obtained by using the CMM module in Pro/ENGINEER®.
Patient Treatment Case Description in the Centre for Hyperbaric Oxygen and Wound Treatment in Bydgoszcz
Authors: Zieliński Ewa , Lipińska Anna , Grobelska Kinga , Siermontowski Piotr
Published: March 2016

This article presents a description of a case of a patient diagnosed with complicated inflammation of the tibia bone, who was treated hyperbarically, in order to underline the advantages of this method of treatment used not as an alternative to antibiotics and surgery, but as a supportive method.
Measurement System Reliability Assessment
Authors: Kłos Ryszard
Published: March 2016

Decision-making in problem situations is based on up-to-date and reliable information. A great deal of information is subject to rapid changes, hence it may be outdated or manipulated and enforce erroneous decisions. It is crucial to have the possibility to assess the obtained information. In order to ensure its reliability it is best to obtain it with an own measurement process. In such a case, conducting assessment of measurement system reliability seems to be crucial. The article describes general approach to assessing reliability of measurement systems.
Assessment of the Effects of Rehabilitation on Balance Impairment in Patients After Ischemic Stroke According to Selected Tests and Scales
Authors: Jaworska Magdalena , Tuzim Tomasz , Starczyńska Małgorzata , Wilk-Frańczuk Magdalena , Pedrycz Agnieszka
Published: March 2016

Cerebral stroke is one of the most important issues for modern medicine. Despite the fact that numerous activities have been undertaken for the purpose of raising awareness and significance of prevention, this condition still remains one of the main reasons behind disability. The objective of the work was to assess the effects of the type of therapy, age and period from the incident occurrence, on the progress of rehabilitation of imbalance and body stability observed in a group of researched patients, on the basis of results obtained according to the Berg Balance Scale, tandem balance test, Kwolek’s loading symmetry index and Timed Up and Go test. The test group comprised of 55 post-stroke patients. The group consisted of 29 women (52.73%) and 26 men (47.27%). The average age of the subjects was 61.02 years (age range between 33-85 years). A number of the patients were subjected to rehabilitation with the use of classic kinesitherapy, whereas the remaining group underwent rehabilitation based on the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation method (PNF).
Vibration Characteristics of Reciprocating Air Compressors Used For Hyperbaric Purposes
Authors: Kluczyk Marcin
Published: March 2016

The article presents problems related to the diagnostics of vibrations in reciprocating compressors driven by motors of less than 100 kW. None of the currently applicable norms concerning the issues of vibration diagnostics broach this subject, and therefore diagnosticians have no reference levels for measured vibration parameters. The present paper focuses on two types of compressors intended for diving purposes and hyperbaric techniques. The paper contains a suggested course of actions at the time of taking measurements. Further suggestions for developing coherent procedures as regards the diagnostics of reciprocating compressors of less than 100 kW have been indicated.
Methodology of Selecting Strategies for Underwater Exploration Conducted for the Purposes of Litigation – Places and Conditions for the Exploration
Authors: Olejnik Adam , Szymański Roman
Published: March 2016

This is the first publication from a series of articles devoted to the issues of underwater exploration carried out for litigation purposes. The present paper suggests that an exploration strategy should be defined as: all actions that aim at creating and implementing a plan of exploration, conducted with the application of a defined exploration methodology - here understood to refer to the technical way the task is completed. Such an approach is taken in order to ensure the most adequate involvement of means and resources for the plan’s implementation. Since the choice of strategy affects many aspects that range from the technical to the environmental, this first part focuses on the location of the exploration and the anticipated conditions.
Purchasing Power Parity and Productivity-Bias Hypothesis
Authors: Widodo Tri
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the purchasing power parity (PPP) theorem adjusted the “productivity-bias hypothesis” or the Balassa-Samuelson effect (Balassa, 1964; Samuelson, 1964) for eight East Asian countries including Japan, New Industrializing Economies (NIE-3: Singapore; Hong Kong, China; and Korea), the ASEAN-3 (Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). This paper applies three methods of analysis i.e. univariate time series, multivariate regression and Johansen multivariate cointegration. The three methods give the same conclusions. First, the PPP hypothesis does not hold in the case of the eight East Asian countries. Second, non-traded goods give significant contribution on the PPP deviation. It is confirmed by the existence of Balassa-Samuelson effect.
Law, Coercion and Socioeconomic Equilibrium
Authors: Soldatos Gerasimos T.
Published: March 2016

This paper investigates the economic conditions under which the performance of a Judiciary does not impede non-coercive fair socioeconomic allocations under “Strotz-myopia” regarding the law variable, i.e. under a static view of it in an otherwise dynamic context. The law, here, is the positive factor by which consumption volume is multiplied as a result of law introduction in an otherwise fully private social economy. Lexicographic preferences regarding the law is the keyword in establishing non-coercive equilibria either in the static context of a stone-age economy or in the dynamic context of a jungle economy, given in the latter the presence of farsightedness. Nevertheless, such equilibria are found here to exist even under myopia and regardless the presence of lexicographic preferences. We first detect them within a fully private social economy, and we next qualify them by introducing the Judiciary as state officials. The optimality regarding state finances imposes additional restrictions in establishing myopic noncoercive equilibria. In any case, an equilibrium will be stable if it is not influenced by the homotheticity or not of the preferences, i.e. by income distribution considerations. So, any suboptimal behaviour of the Judiciary should be attributed exclusively to the suboptimality of state finances: Macroeconomics does affect law administration.
Iron-catalyzed hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions with relevance to reversible hydrogen storage applications
Authors: Zell Thomas , Langer Robert
Published: March 2016

Today’s energy concerns require the development of suitable solutions for the storage of energy from renewable resources. Although the chemical storage of energy using molecular hydrogen as energy carrier is one of the best options, this type of energy storage requires the conversion of hydrogen to liquid organic hydrogen careers (LOHCs) for practical reasons. This goal is challenging and highly desirable at the same time. In comparison to dihydrogen, hydrogen storage in LOHCs offers easier handling and minimum dangers involved in their production, storage, and reconversion. To achieve efficient processes based on LOHCs highly active catalyst systems are required which ideally are based on cheap and abundant metals such as iron. This review summarizes recent advances in ironcatalyzed hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions, with relevance to reversible hydrogen storage in small molecules. It entails the dehydrogenation reactions of formic acid and methanol water mixtures, the reverse reaction, the hydrogenation of CO2, dehydrogenation of alcohols, and the hydrogenation of different carbonyl compounds as the formal reverse reaction, as well as hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions of N-heterocyclic compounds and hydrogen release reactions from amino boranes.
Nanoparticle-Catalysts for Hydrogen Storage Based on Small Molecules
Authors: Scholten Jackson D. , Qadir Muhammad I. , Souza Virgínia S.
Published: March 2016

In this mini-review, selected contributions on the development of hydrogen storage systems based on small molecules using nanocatalysts for hydrogen generation will be described. The discussion is centered on the most applied compounds such as formic acid, metal hydrides, amine-boranes, alcohols, hydrocarbons, hydrazine and water. In addition, an overview of the most important aspects relating to the application of the metal nanoparticles in each reaction is also considered.
First Successful Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation in Romania
Authors: Tănase Alina , Tomuleasa C. , Mărculescu Alexandra , Bardaş A. , Coliţă Anca , Ciurea Ş.O.
Published: March 2016

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is an established treatment for many malignant and non-malignant haematological disorders. In the current case report, we describe the first haploidentical stem cell transplantation, used for the first time in Romania, the case of a 33 year-old young woman diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma that has underwent a haploSCT after she relapsed from several chemotherapy regimens, as well as after an autologous stem cell transplantation. This success represents a prèmiere in Romanian clinical hematology, being the first case of a haploSCT in Romania, as well as in South-Eastern Europe.
Cardiac Changes in Overweight and Obese Patients
Authors: Alexescu Teodora Gabriela , Cozma Angela , Sitar-Tăut Adela , Negrean V. , Handru M.I. , Motocu M. , Tohănean Nicoleta , Lencu Codruţa , Para Ioana
Published: March 2016

Background. Obesity and overweight are two pathologies that are more and more frequent in the XXIst century diagnosis and are causing high morbidity and mortality rates in the general population, especially through cardiovascular complications.

Aims. Identification and early diagnosis of cardiac changes in overweight and obese patients. Material and method. We carried out a sectional, analytical and observational study on 111 subjects: 27 normal weight subjects and 84 overweight and obese patients, which were submitted to a clinical exam, biochemical exams and 2D ultrasound.

Results. The presence of diastolic dysfunction is twice more frequent in overweight patients in comparison to normal weight ones (30% vs 15%) and 5 times more frequent in obese patients than normal weight ones (75% vs 15%). The size increase of the interventricular septum is correlated with the body mass index, there being statistically significant differences between normal weight vs overweight vs obese patients, as well as between overweight and obese ones. Within the whole group and within the groups, both the left ventricle mass (g) as well as the left ventricle mass to body surface ratio (g/m²) are statistically significantly higher in patients with present diastolic dysfunction (E/A < 1). This indicates a relation between the presence of diastolic dysfunction, increased left ventricle mass and body mass index (p < 0.05).

Conclusions. Overweight and obese patients, unlike normal weight ones, present early cardiac changes, such as: a decrease of left ventricle ejection fraction, diastolic dysfunction, thickening of the interventricular septum, increase of the left ventricle mass both per se as well as in ratio to body surface.
Taxation in Cesee Countries – Similarities and Differences
Authors: Comaniciu Carmen
Published: March 2016

The characteristics of fiscal revenues are the ones that demonstrate their importance for the formation of public financial resources, being considered as a product of historical development of the state. Numerous studies and researches on the taxes action in financial, economic and social level emphasized the link between fiscal policy, growth and level of development of a country. In this context, through this article, by presenting some general coordinates of taxation in countries of Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe (CESEE countries) we will identify the similarities and differences concerning the taxation system and the impact of taxation on the socio-economic development. Without claiming an exhaustive approach, we consider that issues outlined highlight in which country taxation is a stimulating factor for economic growth and development, so that good practice be elements worthy of consideration.
Aspects of Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial Education in Romania
Authors: Moldovan Iosif
Published: March 2016

In any economy, entrepreneurs have a major role in ensuring economic, financial and social equilibrium and this effort must be accompanied by effective public policies. In this respect it is important to assess the entrepreneurs’ perception on the factors that support or impede their priorities and interests. These priorities refer to financing facilities, consistency of the legal system, society's perception of private initiative, bureaucracy, rigor, predictability and transparency of fiscal measures etc.

The public authorities and entrepreneurs (by the own organization) must harmonize their interests. The difference is that the authorities are obliged by law to harmonize their interests and entrepreneurs are forced to do it, if not - they disappear. For example, the interest of entrepreneurs to pay smaller taxes is justified to some extent, but public authorities must ensure balance on the one hand, between those who pay and consumers of public financial resources on the other.

Public authorities are not a given, they have the purpose to provide public services to ensure a balance between the needs of all parties in society: entrepreneurs, employees, socially assisted etc. In relation to entrepreneurs, they must follow the other parties (e.g. employees) to be less affected as the interests of entrepreneurs, if they conflict.
Accounting and Tax Issues Concerning Commercial Discounts
Authors: Sava Raluca
Published: March 2016

Commercial discounts accounting presents a particular importance because, on the one hand, of their widely spread on a large scale in the commercial activity and on the second hand, due to the influence of the accounting and reporting method over the value added tax. The paper theoretically addresses commercial reductions and also their reflection in the accounting according with the latest regulations in force.
Analyzing the Composition of HDI in European Countries
Authors: Ciupac-Ulici Maria-Lenuţa
Published: March 2016

Human Development Index (HDI) measures development in a country by combining indicators of life expectancy, education level and income. In 2013, 187 countries were included in this index, which aims to expand the coverage area as additional statistics become more available. HDI, which is published by UNDP, may be the most comprehensive indicator, but it is not fully compatible enough to measure the human development level in a global perspective. Human Development Index explicitly explains the development of a country as being more than an economic growth tool or material wealth. In this way, this index is distinguished from many other performance indicators. This article aims to analyze the proportion of the three indicators on 37 European countries.
Foreign Direct Investments in the Economic Development of Romania
Authors: Enescu Marian , Enescu Maria
Published: March 2016

The economic theories consider the investments as one of the major factors of economic growth. Economic growth represents a complex process of increasing the dimensions of the national economy, based on the collective use of increasingly efficient production factors, dimensions expressed by the size of gross domestic product and national income per capita.
Identification of Synaptotagmin 10 as Effector of NPAS4-Mediated Protection from Excitotoxic Neurodegeneration
Authors: Woitecki Anne M.H. , Müller Johannes Alexander , van Loo Karen M.J. , Sowade Ramona F. , Becker Albert J. , Schoch Susanne
Published: March 2016

Neuronal degeneration represents a pathogenetic hallmark after different brain insults, such as ischemia and status epilepticus (SE). Excessive release of glutamate triggered by pathophysiologic synaptic activity has been put forward as key mechanism in this context. In response to pathophysiologic synaptic activity, multiple signaling cascades are activated that ultimately initiate expression of specific sets of genes, which may decide between neuronal survival versus death. Recently, a core set of genes [“activity-regulated inhibitor of death” (AID) genes] including the transcription factor (TF) NPAS4 (neuronal PAS domain protein 4) has been found to provide activity-induced protection against neuronal death caused by excitotoxic stimulation. However, the downstream targets of AID action mediating neuroprotection remained so far unknown. Here, we have identified synaptotagmin 10 (Syt10), a vesicular Ca2+sensor, as the first neuroprotective effector protein downstream of the TF NPAS4. The expression of Syt10 is strongly upregulated by pathophysiologic synaptic activity after kainic acid (KA) exposure and its absence renders mouse hippocampal neurons highly susceptible to excitotoxic insults. We found NPAS4 as critical for the increase in Syt10 levels and in turn the ability of NPAS4 to confer neuroprotection against KA-induced excitotoxicity to be severely diminished in Syt10 knock-out neurons. In summary, our results point to an important role for signaling of the NPAS4–Syt10 pathway in the neuronal response to strong synaptic activity as a consequence of excitotoxic insults.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAberrant synaptic activity is observed in many neurological disorders and has been suggested as an important factor contributing to the pathophysiology. Intriguingly, pathophysiologic activity can also trigger signaling cascades mediating potentially compensatory neuroprotection against excitotoxic insult. Here, we identify a new neuroprotective signaling cascade involving the activity-induced transcriptional regulator NPAS4 and the vesicular Ca2+-sensor protein synaptotagmin 10 (Syt10). Syt10 is required for NPAS4 to protect hippocampal neurons against excitotoxic cell death. NPAS4 in turn controls the activity of the Syt10 gene, which is strongly induced by pathophysiologic activity. Our results uncover an entirely unexpected, novel function of Syt10 underlying the response of neurons to pathophysiologic activity and provide new therapeutic perspectives for neurological disorders.
Hydroxymethylation of microRNA-365-3p Regulates Nociceptive Behaviors via Kcnh2
Authors: Pan Zhiqiang , Zhang Ming , Ma Tao , Xue Zhou-Ya , Li Guo-Fang , Hao Ling-Yun , Zhu Li-Jiao , Li Yan-Qiang , Ding Hai-Lei , Cao Jun-Li
Published: March 2016

DNA 5-hydroxylmethylcytosine (5hmC) catalyzed by ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase (TET) occurs abundantly in neurons of mammals. However, thein vivocausal link between TET dysregulation and nociceptive modulation has not been established. Here, we found that spinal TET1 and TET3 were significantly increased in the model of formalin-induced acute inflammatory pain, which was accompanied with the augment of genome-wide 5hmC content in spinal cord. Knockdown of spinal TET1 or TET3 alleviated the formalin-induced nociceptive behavior and overexpression of spinal TET1 or TET3 in naive mice produced pain-like behavior as evidenced by decreased thermal pain threshold. Furthermore, we found that TET1 or TET3 regulated the nociceptive behavior by targeting microRNA-365-3p (miR-365-3p). Formalin increased 5hmC in the miR-365-3p promoter, which was inhibited by knockdown of TET1 or TET3 and mimicked by overexpression of TET1 or TET3 in naive mice. Nociceptive behavior induced by formalin or overexpression of spinal TET1 or TET3 could be prevented by downregulation of miR-365-3p, and mimicked by overexpression of spinal miR-365-3p. Finally, we demonstrated that a potassium channel, voltage-gated eag-related subfamily H member 2 (Kcnh2), validated as a target of miR-365-3p, played a critical role in nociceptive modulation by spinal TET or miR-365-3p. Together, we concluded that TET-mediated hydroxymethylation of miR-365-3p regulates nociceptive behavior viaKcnh2.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMounting evidence indicates that epigenetic modifications in the nociceptive pathway contribute to pain processes and analgesia response. Here, we found that the increase of 5hmC content mediated by TET1 or TET3 in miR-365-3p promoter in the spinal cord is involved in nociceptive modulation through targeting a potassium channel,Kcnh2. Our study reveals a new epigenetic mechanism underlying nociceptive information processing, which may be a novel target for development of antinociceptive drugs.
Corticospinal Inputs to Primate Motoneurons Innervating the Forelimb from Two Divisions of Primary Motor Cortex and Area 3a
Authors: Witham Claire L. , Fisher Karen M. , Edgley Steve A. , Baker Stuart N.
Published: March 2016

Previous anatomical work in primates has suggested that only corticospinal axons originating in caudal primary motor cortex (“new M1”) and area 3a make monosynaptic cortico-motoneuronal connections with limb motoneurons. By contrast, the more rostral “old M1” is proposed to control motoneurons disynaptically via spinal interneurons. In six macaque monkeys, we examined the effects from focal stimulation within old and new M1 and area 3a on 135 antidromically identified motoneurons projecting to the upper limb. EPSPs with segmental latency shorter than 1.2 ms were classified as definitively monosynaptic; these were seen only after stimulation within new M1 or at the new M1/3a border (incidence 6.6% and 1.3%, respectively; totaln= 27). However, most responses had longer latencies. Using measures of the response facilitation after a second stimulus compared with the first, and the reduction in response latency after a third stimulus compared with the first, we classified these late responses as likely mediated by either long-latency monosynaptic (n= 108) or non-monosynaptic linkages (n= 108). Both old and new M1 generated putative long-latency monosynaptic and non-monosynaptic effects; the majority of responses from area 3a were non-monosynaptic. Both types of responses from new M1 had significantly greater amplitude than those from old M1. We suggest that slowly conducting corticospinal fibers from old M1 generate weak late monosynaptic effects in motoneurons. These may represent a stage in control of primate motoneurons by the cortex intermediate between disynaptic output via an interposed interneuron seen in nonprimates and the fast direct monosynaptic connections present in new M1.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe corticospinal tract in Old World primates makes monosynaptic connections to motoneurons; previous anatomical work suggests that these connections come only from corticospinal tract (CST) neurons in the subdivision of primary motor cortex within the central sulcus (“new M1”) and area 3a. Here, we show using electrophysiology that cortico-motoneuronal connections from fast conducting CST fibers are indeed made exclusively from new M1 and its border with 3a. However, we also show that all parts of M1 and 3a have cortico-motoneuronal connections over more slowly conducting CST axons, as well as exert disynaptic effects on motoneurons via interposed interneurons. Differences between old and new M1 are thus more subtle than previously thought.
Tousled‐like kinase 2 regulates recovery from a DNA damage‐induced G2 arrest
Authors: Bruinsma Wytse , van den Berg Jeroen , Aprelia Melinda , Medema René H
Published: March 2016

In order to maintain a stable genome, cells need to detect and repair DNA damage before they complete the division cycle. To this end, cell cycle checkpoints prevent entry into the next cell cycle phase until the damage is fully repaired. Proper reentry into the cell cycle, known as checkpoint recovery, requires that a cell retains its original cell cycle state during the arrest. Here, we have identified Tousled‐like kinase 2 (Tlk2) as an important regulator of recovery after DNA damage in G2. We show that Tlk2 regulates the Asf1A histone chaperone in response to DNA damage and that depletion of Asf1A also produces a recovery defect. Both Tlk2 and Asf1A are required to restore histone H3 incorporation into damaged chromatin. Failure to do so affects expression of pro‐mitotic genes and compromises the cellular competence to recover from damage‐induced cell cycle arrests. Our results demonstrate that Tlk2 promotes Asf1A function during the DNA damage response in G2 to allow for proper restoration of chromatin structure at the break site and subsequent recovery from the arrest.
Asymmetrical distribution of δ and PP cells in human pancreatic islets
Authors: Barbieux Charlotte , Parnaud Géraldine , Lavallard Vanessa , Brioudes Estelle , Meyer Jérémy , Alibashe Ahmed Mohamed , Berishvili Ekaterine , Berney Thierry , Bosco Domenico
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the location of PP and δ cells in relation to the vascularization within human pancreatic islets. To this end, pancreas sections were analysed by immunofluorescence using antibodies against endocrine islet and endothelial cells. Staining in different islet areas corresponding to islet cells adjacent or not to peripheral or central vascular channels was quantified by computerized morphometry. As results, α, PP and δ cells were preferentially found adjacent to vessels. In contrast to α cells, which were evenly distributed between islet periphery and intraislet vascular channels, PP and δ cells had asymmetric and opposite distributions: PP staining was higher and somatostatin staining was lower in the islet periphery than in the area around intraislet vascular channels. Additionally, frequencies of PP and δ cells were negatively correlated in the islets. No difference was observed between islets from the head and the tail of the pancreas, and from type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic donors. In conclusion, the distribution of δ cells differs from that of PP cells in human islets, suggesting that vessels at the periphery and at the centre of islets drain different hormonal cocktails.
Sobre el primer culto a Caronte en la Península Ibérica. Datos para una discusión
Authors: Graells i Fabregat Raimon
Published: March 2016

La práctica de depositar monedas dentro de tumbas prerromanas es un fenómeno que se documenta de manera excepcional en el nordeste de la Península Ibérica y rarísimamente en área celtibérica. A partir de la recopilación de los hallazgos de tumbas prerromanas con moneda se analiza la adopción del comportamiento y la excepcional documentación de la necrópolis de Carratiermes.
Las primeras intervenciones arqueológicas en A Cidadela (Sobrado dos Monxes, A Coruña)
Authors: Costa García José Manuel
Published: March 2016

El yacimiento de A Cidadela es, en la actualidad, uno de los más importantes exponentes de la arqueología gallega. Excavado de forma sistemática desde la década de 1980 por el profesor Caamaño Gesto, su estudio ha resultado fundamental para el conocimiento de la presencia militar romana en el noroeste peninsular o del poblamiento en el rural gallego durante los periodos germánico y altomedieval. Sin embargo, nuestro cometido aquí no es analizar los resultados de dichas intervenciones sino remontarnos más atrás en el tiempo para ordenar y valorar las poco conocidas excavaciones que tuvieron lugar en el yacimiento entre finales del siglo XIX e inicios del XX.
Nuevo hallazgo anfórico romano en Tui (Pontevedra)
Authors: Carlsson-Brandt Fontan Erik , Fernández Abella David
Published: March 2016

Presentamos en esta noticia un destacado hallazgo subacuático de un fragmento perteneciente a un ánfora romana, localizado en aguas del río Miño cerca del casco antiguo de la actual ciudad de Tui (Pontevedra).
Nota dun biface achado en Ribadeo (Lugo)
Authors: Ramil Rego Eduardo
Published: March 2016

A presente nota dá a coñecer un novo utensilio adscrito ao Achelense no sector occidental da Rexión Cantábrica. Trátase dunha biface amigdaloide con talón realizado en cuarcita.
El depósito de Pereiras Pequenas en Vila de Punhe, Viana do Castelo (Norte de Portugal). Una revisión del contexto deposicional.
Authors: Manteiga Brea Alexandre , Santos Bettencourt Ana Maria , Comendador Rey Beatriz
Published: March 2016

El objeto de este trabajo es revisar las circunstancias de hallazgo de un conjunto de hachas de tope con dos anillas laterales y cono de fundición encontrado en la finca de Pereiras Pequenas/Rexio, lugar de Arque, parroquia de Vila de Punhe, municipio de Viana do Castelo, en 1916, mientras se realizaban labores agrícolas en unos viñedos. El hallazgo fue dado a conocer por Serpa Pinto (1928, 1933a, 1933b), aunque la noticia del descubrimento fue publicada años más tarde por Viana (1938). Este conjunto formado por más de cien ejemplares, constituye uno de los depósitos monotipológicos más numerosos de la Península Ibérica. A partir de su contexto espacial se ofrecen algunas interpretaciones sobre la localización de esta y otras deposiciones similares en el Noroeste de la Península Ibérica.
Effect of temperature and compression/decompression rates on high pressure inactivation of Listeria
Authors: Ferreira M. , Pereira S. , Almeida A. , Queirós R. , Delgadillo I. , Saraiva J. , Cunha A.
Published: March 2016

The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of temperature and different compression/ decompression rates on the efficiency of Listeria inactivation by HPP.

Stationary phase cultures of Listeria innocua were subjected to 300 MPa for 5 min at 4, 10, and 20 °C using different compression and decompression rates. Inactivation was more efficient at low temperature and with lowest compression and decompression rates (1.5 MPa s–1 and 3.2 MPa s–1, respectively).

Kinetics of pressure building up and decompression, as well as temperature, have a significant impact on the outcome of Listeria inactivation by HPP. The results may contribute to the design of HPP protocols that ensure food safety, while preserving nutritional and organoleptic properties better.
Stretched exponent rheological model of gum candy
Authors: Csima Gy. , Vozáry E.
Published: March 2016

Creep-Recovery Tests (CRT) were measured with a Stable Micros Systems TA.XT-2 precision penetrometer with 75 mm diameter cylinder probe and with different loading stress and creeping-recovery times on gelatine-based candy gum samples, purchased from the local market. The loading force changed from 1 N up to 10 N and the creeping time varied from 30 s up to 120 s. The creeping and the recovering part of CRT curves were approached by Burgersmodel with stretched exponential function. The two elastic moduli and the two viscosities increased linearly in the function of the applied stress. One elastic modulus and the two viscosities also increased, but another elastic modulus slightly decreased in the function of the creeping time. The stretching exponent β practically linearly decreased as the creeping time increased. Based on theoretical considerations, the Kelvin-Voigt-element of Burgers-model can describe the rheological behaviour of sugar content, and the Maxwell-element of Burgers-model can describe the rheological behaviour of gelatine-mesh.
Chemical extraction and optimization of intracellular β-galactosidase production from the bacterium Arthrobacter oxydans using Box-Behnken design of response surface methodology
Authors: Banerjee G. , Ray A. , Das S.K. , Kumar R. , Ray A.K.
Published: March 2016

Present study demonstrated the isolation of most promising β-galactosidase producing bacterial strain SB from soil. Morphological, biochemical, and 16s rRNA sequence analysis identified the bacterial strain as Arthrobacter oxydans. Several chemicals, including SDS, Triton X-100, Tween 20, isoamyl alcohol, and toluene-acetone mixture, were applied for extraction of intracellular β-galactosidase from the bacterial strain Arthrobacter oxydans. Among these, Tween 20 was recorded to be most effective. Role of pH, temperature, and shaker speed on production of β-galactosidase was evaluated using Box-Behnken design of response surface methodology. According to Box-Behnken analysis, optimum production of β-galactosidase (21.38 U (mg–1 protein)) is predicted at pH 6.76, temperature 36.1 °C, and shaker speed 121.37 r.p.m. The parameters are validated with the nearest value.
Growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM in dependence on temperature
Authors: Medvedova A. , Mancuskova T. , Valik L.
Published: March 2016

Environmental factors, including temperature and nutrient composition, have considerable impact on the growth dynamic of each microbial species; moreover it is strongly dependent on the selected strain. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe and analyse the growth dynamics of the strain Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM (Howaru) by predictive microbiology tools. The intensity of Lb. acidophilus NCFM growth in MRS broth and in milk was significantly affected by the incubation temperature described by the Gibson’s model, from which the optimal temperature for the Lb. acidophilus growth of 40.5 °C in MRS broth and 40.1 °C in milk was calculated. These cardinal temperatures were verified with the CTMI model providing also other cardinal (minimal Tmin, maximal Tmax, and optimal Topt) values for Lb. acidophilus NCFM growth Topt=40.2 °C, Tmin=15.4 °C, Tmax=46.0 °C and Topt=40.3 °C, Tmin=14.3 °C, Tmax=46.6 °C in MRS broth and in milk, respectively.