bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induced polarization response of porous media with metallic particles — Part 3: A new approach to time-domain induced polarization tomography
Authors: Mao Deqiang , Revil André
Published: June 2016

The secondary voltage associated with time-domain induced polarization data of disseminated metallic particles (such as pyrite and magnetite) in a porous material can be treated as a transient self-potential problem. This self-potential field is associated with the generation of a secondary-source current density. This source current density is proportional to the gradient of the chemical potentials of the [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-charge carriers in the metallic particles or ionic charge carriers in the pore water including in the electrical double layer coating the surface of the metallic grains. This new way to treat the secondary voltages offers two advantages with respect to the classical approach. The first is a gain in terms of acquisition time. Indeed, the target can be illuminated with a few primary current sources, all the other electrodes being used simultaneously to record the secondary voltage distribution. The second advantage is with respect to the inversion of the obtained data. Indeed, the secondary (source) current is linearly related to the secondary voltage. Therefore, the inverse problem of inverting the secondary voltages is linear with respect to the source current density, and the inversion can be done in a single iteration. Several iterations are, however, required to compact the source current density distribution, still obtaining a tomogram much faster than inverting the apparent chargeability data using the classical Gauss-Newton approach. We have performed a sandbox experiment with pyrite grains locally mixed to sand at a specific location in the sandbox to demonstrate these new concepts. A method initially developed for self-potential tomography is applied to the inversion of the secondary voltages in terms of source current distribution. The final result compares favorably with the classical inversion of the time-domain induced polarization data in terms of chargeability, but it is much faster to perform.
Rates of voluntary and compulsory psychiatric in-patient treatment in England: An ecological study investigating associations with deprivation and demographics
Authors: Keown Patrick , McBride Orla , Twigg Liz , Crepaz-Keay David , Cyhlarova Eva , Parsons Helen , Scott Jan , Bhui Kamaldeep , Weich Scott
Published: June 2016

Background

Individual variables and area-level variables have been identified as explaining much of the variance in rates of compulsory in-patient treatment.

Aims

To describe rates of voluntary and compulsory psychiatric in-patient treatment in rural and urban settings in England, and to explore the associations with age, ethnicity and deprivation.

Method

Secondary analysis of 2010/11 data from the Mental Health Minimum Dataset.

Results

Areas with higher levels of deprivation had increased rates of in-patient treatment. Areas with high proportions of adults aged 20–39 years had the highest rates of compulsory in-patient treatment as well as the lowest rates of voluntary in-patient treatment. Urban settings had higher rates of compulsory in-patient treatment and ethnic density was associated with compulsory treatment in these areas. After adjusting for age, deprivation and urban/rural setting, the association between ethnicity and compulsory treatment was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Age structure of the adult population and ethnic density along with higher levels of deprivation can account for the markedly higher rates of compulsory in-patient treatment in urban areas.
Neonatal Masculinization Blocks Increased Excitatory Synaptic Input in Female Rat Nucleus Accumbens Core
Authors: Cao Jinyan , Dorris David M. , Meitzen John
Published: June 2016

Steroid sex hormones and genetic sex regulate the phenotypes of motivated behaviors and relevant disorders. Most studies seeking to elucidate the underlying neuroendocrine mechanisms have focused on how 17β-estradiol modulates the role of dopamine in striatal brain regions, which express membrane-associated estrogen receptors. Dopamine action is an important component of striatal function, but excitatory synaptic neurotransmission has also emerged as a key striatal substrate and target of estradiol action. Here, we focus on excitatory synaptic input onto medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the striatal region nucleus accumbens core (AcbC). In adult AcbC, miniature excitatory postsynaptic current (mEPSC) frequency is increased in female compared with male MSNs. We tested whether increased mEPSC frequency in female MSNs exists before puberty, whether this increased excitability is due to the absence of estradiol or testosterone during the early developmental critical period, and whether it is accompanied by stable neuron intrinsic membrane properties. We found that mEPSC frequency is increased in female compared with male MSNs before puberty. Increased mEPSC frequency in female MSNs is abolished after neonatal estradiol or testosterone exposure. MSN intrinsic membrane properties did not differ by sex. These data indicate that neonatal masculinization via estradiol and/or testosterone action is sufficient for down-regulating excitatory synaptic input onto MSNs. We conclude that excitatory synaptic input onto AcbC MSNs is organized long before adulthood via steroid sex hormone action, providing new insight into a mechanism by which sex differences in motivated behavior and other AbcC functions may be generated or compromised.
Which Amount of BMI-SDS Reduction Is Necessary to Improve Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight Children?
Authors: Reinehr Thomas , Lass Nina , Toschke Christina , Rothermel Juliane , Lanzinger Stefanie , Holl Reinhard W.
Published: June 2016

Context:

Knowing the changes of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) in relation to weight loss would be helpful to advise overweight children and their parents and to decide whether drugs should be prescribed in addition to lifestyle intervention.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to determine the body mass index (BMI)-SD score (SDS) reduction to improve CRFs in overweight children.

Design:

This was a prospective observation study.

Setting:

The study was conducted at a specialized outpatient obesity clinic.

Patients:

A total of 1388 overweight children (mean BMI 27.9 ± 0.1 kg/m2, mean age 11.4 ± 0.1 y, 43.8% male, 45.5% prepubertal) participated in the study.

Intervention:

The study included a 1-year lifestyle intervention.

Main Outcome Measures:

We studied changes of blood pressure (BP), fasting high-density lipoprotein- and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) of insulin resistance index. Change of weight status was determined by δBMI-SDS based on the recommended percentiles of the International Task Force of Obesity.

Results:

BMI-SDS change was associated with a significant improvement of all CRFs except fasting glucose and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol after adjusting for multiple confounders such as baseline CRFs, age, gender, BMI, pubertal stage, and its changes. BMI-SDS reduction of 0.25–0.5 was related to a decrease of systolic blood pressure (BP) (−3.2 ± 1.4 mm Hg), diastolic BP (−2.2 ± 1.1 mm Hg), triglycerides (−6.9 ± 5.8 mg/dL), HOMA (−0.5 ± 0.3), and triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein)-cholesterol (−0.3 ± 0.2), whereas high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol increased (+1.3 ± 1.2 mg/dL). A reduction of greater than 0.5 BMI-SDS led to more pronounced improvement (systolic BP −6.0± 1.3 mm Hg, diastolic BP −5.1 ± 1.3 mm Hg, triglycerides −16.4 ± 7.1 mg/dL, HDL-cholesterol +1.6 ± 1.5 mg/dL, HOMA −0.9 ± 0.3). Per 0.1 BMI-SDS reduction in systolic BP (−1.0 mm Hg), diastolic BP (−0.8 mm Hg), triglycerides (−2.3 mg/dL), HOMA (−0.2), and triglyceride/HDL-cholesterol (−0.5) decreased significantly, whereas HDL-cholesterol (0.2 mg/dL) increased significantly in linear regression analyses and accounted for multiple confounders.

Conclusions:

A BMI-SDS reduction of 0.25 or greater significantly improved hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-cholesterol, whereas a BMI-SDS greater than 0.5 doubled the effect.
Regulating the Efficacy of Inhibition Through Trafficking of γ-Aminobutyric Acid Type A Receptors
Authors: Vien Thuy N. , Moss Stephen J. , Davies Paul A.
Published: June 2016

Trafficking of anesthetic-sensitive receptors within the plasma membrane, or from one cellular component to another, occurs continuously. Changes in receptor trafficking have implications in altering anesthetic sensitivity. γ-Aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAARs) are anion-permeable ion channels and are the major class of receptor in the adult mammalian central nervous system that mediates inhibition. GABAergic signaling allows for precise synchronized firing of action potentials within brain circuits that is critical for cognition, behavior, and consciousness. This precision depends upon tightly controlled trafficking of GABAARs into the membrane. General anesthetics bind to and allosterically enhance GABAARs by prolonging the open state of the receptor and thereby altering neuronal and brain circuit activity. Subunit composition and GABAAR localization strongly influence anesthetic end points; therefore, changes in GABAAR trafficking could have significant consequences to anesthetic sensitivity. GABAARs are not static membrane structures but are in a constant state of flux between extrasynaptic and synaptic locations and are continually endocytosed and recycled from and to the membrane. Neuronal activity, posttranslational modifications, and some naturally occurring and synthetic compounds can influence the expression and trafficking of GABAARs. In this article, we review GABAARs, their trafficking, and how phosphorylation of GABAAR subunits can influence the surface expression and function of the receptor. Ultimately, alterations of GABAAR trafficking could modify anesthetic end points, both unintentionally through pathologic processes but potentially as a therapeutic target to adjust anesthetic-sensitive GABAARs.
Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction and the Change of Regional Cerebral Oxygen Saturation in Elderly Patients Undergoing Spinal Surgery
Authors: Kim Jeongmin , Shim Jae-Kwang , Song Jong Wook , Kim Eui-kyung , Kwak Young Lan
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND:

In this study, we examined the relationship between postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and intraoperative regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) in elderly patients undergoing spinal surgery.

METHODS:

We enrolled 87 patients older than 65 years. All patients were tested using a battery of cognitive function tests (Korean Mini-Mental State Examination and visuomotor test of Dynamic Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment–Geriatric Version) the day before their surgical operation and on the seventh postoperative day. Our threshold for defining POCD for a given patient was a Reliable Change Index score of <−1.96 occurring on 2 tests.

RESULTS:

POCD was detected in 20 patients (23%) at the seventh postoperative day. Between-patient baseline characteristics, surgical data, and baseline cognitive function were similar for both those who developed POCD and those who did not. A univariate analysis that included age, female sex, education level, presence of diabetes, and duration of intraoperative decline in rSO2 to a level of <60% of baseline revealed that only diabetes and duration of rSO2 <60% (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.005–1.010) were found to be risk factors for POCD. After multivariate logistic regression analysis of these 2 variables, only the duration of rSO2 <60% (odds ratio, 1.006; 95% CI, 1.00–1.01, P = 0.014) remained as an independent risk factor for POCD. The area under the receiver operation characteristic of the duration of rSO2 <60% was 0.70 (95% CI, 0.57–0.82; P = 0.008). The optimal cutoff value was 157 minutes with a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 72%.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study showed that the duration of decline in rSO2 <60% during lumbar spinal surgery was correlated with the development of POCD at the seventh postoperative day in elderly patients.
A new mechanism for nuclear import by actin-based propulsion used by a baculovirus nucleocapsid
Authors: Au Shelly , Wu Wei , Zhou Lixin , Theilmann David A. , Panté Nelly
Published: June 2016

The transport of macromolecules into the nucleus is mediated by soluble cellular receptors of the importin β superfamily and requires the Ran-GTPase cycle. Several studies have provided evidence that there are exceptions to this canonical nuclear import pathway. Here, we report a new unconventional nuclear import mechanism exploited by the baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV). We found that AcMNPV nucleocapsids entered the nucleus of digitonin-permeabilized cells in the absence of exogenous cytosol or under conditions that blocked the Ran-GTPase cycle. AcMNPV contains a protein that activates the Arp2/3 complex and induces actin polymerization at one end of the rod-shaped nucleocapsid. We show that inhibitors of Arp2/3 blocked nuclear import of nucleocapsids in semi-permeabilized cells. Nuclear import of nucleocapsids was also reconstituted in purified nuclei supplemented with G-actin and Arp2/3 under actin polymerization conditions. Thus, we propose that actin polymerization drives not only migration of baculovirus through the cytoplasm but also pushes the nucleocapsid through the nuclear pore complex to enter the cell nucleus. Our findings point to a very distinct role of actin-based motility during the baculovirus infection cycle.
Learning through the waste: olfactory cues from the colony refuse influence plant preferences in foraging leaf-cutting ants
Authors: Arenas Andrés , Roces Flavio
Published: June 2016

Leaf-cutting ants learn to avoid plants initially harvested if they proved to be harmful for their symbiotic fungus once incorporated into the nest. By this time, waste particles removed from the garden likely contain cues originating from both the unsuitable plant and the damaged fungus. We investigated whether leaf-cutting ant foragers learn to avoid unsuitable plants solely through the colony waste. We fed subcolonies of Acromymex ambiguus privet leaves treated with a fungicide undetectable for the ants, collected later the produced waste, and placed it into the fungus chamber of naïve subcolonies. In individual choice tests, naïve foragers preferred privet leaves before, but avoided them after waste was given into the fungus chamber. Evidence on the influence of olfactory cues from the waste on decision making by foragers was obtained by scenting and transferring waste particles from subcolonies that had been fed either fungicide-treated or untreated leaves. In choice experiments, foragers from subcolonies given scented waste originating from fungicide-treated leaves collected less sugared paper disks smelling to it, as compared to foragers from subcolonies given scented waste from untreated leaves. Results indicate that foragers learn to avoid plants unsuitable for the fungus by associating plant odours and cues from the damaged fungus that are contingent in waste particles. It is argued that waste particles may contribute to spread information about noxious plants for the fungus within the colony.
Pigeon navigation: exposure to environmental odours prior release is sufficient for homeward orientation, but not for homing
Authors: Gagliardo Anna , Pollonara Enrica , Wikelski Martin
Published: June 2016

The role of environmental olfactory information in pigeon navigation has been extensively studied by analysing vanishing bearing distributions and homing performances of homing pigeons subjected to manipulation of their olfactory perception and/or of the olfactory information they were exposed to, during transportation and at the release site. However, their behaviour during the homing flight remains undocumented. In this experiment we report the analysis of tracks of birds made anosmic at the release site by zinc-sulphate washing of their olfactory mucosa. We thus can assess the role of local odours at the release site as well as the role of environmental odours perceived on the way, far from the release site. We observed that pigeons transported and kept at the release site in purified air and made anosmic at the release site were unable to orient towards home and were impaired at homing. By contrast, pigeons allowed to smell environmental odours during transportation and at the release site, although made anosmic prior to release, displayed unimpaired homeward orientation, but nevertheless showed impaired homing performance. These results are consistent with the view that local odour at the release site are critical for determining the direction of displacement (olfactory map) and suggest that pigeons consult the olfactory map also during their homing flight in order to be able to find their way home.
Evaluation of microRNA alignment techniques
Authors: Ziemann Mark , Kaspi Antony , El-Osta Assam
Published: June 2016

Genomic alignment of small RNA (smRNA) sequences such as microRNAs poses considerable challenges due to their short length (∼21 nucleotides [nt]) as well as the large size and complexity of plant and animal genomes. While several tools have been developed for high-throughput mapping of longer mRNA-seq reads (>30 nt), there are few that are specifically designed for mapping of smRNA reads including microRNAs. The accuracy of these mappers has not been systematically determined in the case of smRNA-seq. In addition, it is unknown whether these aligners accurately map smRNA reads containing sequence errors and polymorphisms. By using simulated read sets, we determine the alignment sensitivity and accuracy of 16 short-read mappers and quantify their robustness to mismatches, indels, and nontemplated nucleotide additions. These were explored in the context of a plant genome (Oryza sativa, ∼500 Mbp) and a mammalian genome (Homo sapiens, ∼3.1 Gbp). Analysis of simulated and real smRNA-seq data demonstrates that mapper selection impacts differential expression results and interpretation. These results will inform on best practice for smRNA mapping and enable more accurate smRNA detection and quantification of expression and RNA editing.
Nucleotide specificity of the human terminal nucleotidyltransferase Gld2 (TUT2)
Authors: Chung Christina Z. , Jo David Hyung Suk , Heinemann Ilka U.
Published: June 2016

The nontemplated addition of single or multiple nucleotides to RNA transcripts is an efficient means to control RNA stability and processing. Cytoplasmic RNA adenylation and the less well-known uridylation are post-transcriptional mechanisms regulating RNA maturation, activity, and degradation. Gld2 is a member of the noncanonical poly(A) polymerases, which include enzymes with varying nucleotide specificity, ranging from strictly ATP to ambiguous to exclusive UTP adding enzymes. Human Gld2 has been associated with transcript stabilizing miRNA monoadenylation and cytoplasmic mRNA polyadenylation. Most recent data have uncovered an unexpected miRNA uridylation activity, which promotes miRNA maturation. These conflicting data raise the question of Gld2 nucleotide specificity. Here, we biochemically characterized human Gld2 and demonstrated that it is a bona fide adenylyltransferase with only weak activity toward other nucleotides. Despite its sequence similarity with uridylyltransferases (TUT4, TUT7), Gld2 displays an 83-fold preference of ATP over UTP. Gld2 is a promiscuous enzyme, with activity toward miRNA, pre-miRNA, and polyadenylated RNA substrates. Apo-Gld2 activity is restricted to adding single nucleotides and processivity likely relies on additional RNA-binding proteins. A phylogeny of the PAP/TUTase superfamily suggests that uridylyltransferases, which are derived from distinct adenylyltransferase ancestors, arose multiple times during evolution via insertion of an active site histidine. A corresponding histidine insertion into the Gld2 active site alters substrate specificity from ATP to UTP.
Mitral valve repair
Authors: Pozzoli Alberto , De Bonis Michele , Alfieri Ottavio
Published: June 2016

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is the most common valvular heart disease in the Western world. The MR can be either organic (mainly degenerative in Western countries) or functional (secondary to left ventricular remodeling in the context of ischemic or idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy). Degenerative and functional MR are completely different disease entities that pose specific decision-making problems and require different management. The natural history of severe degenerative MR is clearly unfavorable. However, timely and effective correction of degenerative MR is associated with a normalization of life expectancy. By contrast, the prognostic impact of the correction of functional MR is still debated and controversial. In this review, we discuss the optimal treatment of both degenerative and functional MR, taking into account current surgical and percutaneous options. In addition, since a clear understanding of the etiology and mechanisms of valvular dysfunction is important to guide the timing and choice of treatment, the role of the heart team and of echo imaging in the management of MR is addressed as well.
Case Report: Prune perineum syndrome: a rare case with an unfavourable outcome
Authors: Lopes Roberto I. , Dénes Francisco T. , Messi Gustavo B. , Machado Marcos G.
Published: June 2016

Prune perineum syndrome (PPS) is a rare anomaly, with only two previous case reports, both dying in the perinatal period. We report the first case of PPS that reached childhood.

The patient presented with a hypoplastic genitalia and bilateral cryptorchidism. There was no evidence of an anal orifice. A significant prune-like mass was observed, extending from the perineum to both gluteal regions and to a cephalic mid-line bony prominence, with a 1cm central orifice that discharged urine. MRI confirmed the previous findings and revealed a right crossed ectopic kidney, intestinal malrotation, a hypoplastic infrarenal inferior vena cava and a hypoplastic right iliac artery. Endoscopic evaluation through the orifice revealed a cavity lined by urothelial mucosa, with a small communication to the anterior urethra in its anterior wall.

A staged reconstruction was planned, with a first-step urinary diversion through a continent abdominal reservoir associated to bilateral orchiopexy. He was discharged from the hospital three weeks later under intermittent catheterization. The next surgical step would be the resection of the perineal mass and its cavity associated to the removal of the prominent sacrococcygeal bones. Unfortunately, four months after the first surgery the patient developed an acute abdomen and was submitted to a laparotomy that revealed a necrotic ileal segment secondary to obstructive adherences. He developed severe malabsorption followed by septic shock, dying five weeks after the procedure.

Due to the lack of literature, there is no consensus for the management of these cases. The wish of the family for a better quality of life and social acceptance, compelled us to perform a urinary diversion, to be followed by a plastic and orthopedic reconstruction. Despite the successful initial result, the patient developed a late abdominal obstruction that was misdiagnosed, precipitating his untimely death five months after the first procedure.
Les apports néo-schumpéteriens au débat sur les modèles de croissance de l’économie brésilienne au XXI? siècle
Authors: Fonseca Pedro Cezar Dutra , Arend Marcelo
Published: June 2016

Il existe actuellement au Brésil un vif débat académique concernant le modèle de croissance économique que le pays devrait suivre : « wage-led » ou « exported-led ». Le premier est défendu car il donnerait de la continuité à la croissance économique notamment grâce à la distribution des revenus alors que le second cherche à palier les déséquilibres dans la balance des paiements. Dans cet article, il s’agit de montrer que ces deux modèles de croissance présentent des limites quant à la croissance économique durable avec la distribution des revenus comme conséquence de ne pas tenir compte des aspects structurels de l’économie brésilienne comme sa structure productive et son modèle de commerce extérieur.
Judicialización de la política y grupos de presión en Brasil: intereses, estrategias y resultados
Authors: Carvalho Ernani , Santos Manoel Leonardo , Gomes Neto José Mário Wanderley , Barbosa Leon Victor de Queiroz
Published: June 2016

Después de 24 años de un orden constitucional en Brasil, ¿qué se puede aprender sobre la interacción entre los grupos de presión y el Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF)?, ¿cuáles son los actores políticos que logran los mejores resultados?, ¿qué temas se juzgan más por el STF?, ¿el Supremo Tribunal privilegia específicamente algún tema o las decisiones son tomadas teniendo en cuenta más al demandante que al tema tratado? Si es así, ¿quiénes son los privilegiados por sus decisiones? Este artículo analiza la interacción entre la sociedad civil y el Poder Judicial, con base en la observación del uso de las Acciones Directas de Inconstitucionalidad (ADI). El artículo estudia, también, las demandas judiciales de los industriales sometidas al STF a través de la Confederación Nacional de la Industria (CNI), y busca evidenciar que: (1) los grupos más poderosos tienen mayor éxito a la hora de proponer las ADI; (2) aunque tenga baja probabilidad de éxito, merece la pena judicializar el conflicto de sus intereses, y (3) la judicialización de los grupos de presión es una estrategia complementaria y articulada con el conflicto de intereses en la arena legislativa.
Impact of government size and corruption on economic growth
Authors: Baklouti Nedra , Boujelbene Younes
Published: June 2016

This paper examines the role of government in economic growth by extending the neoclassical production-function by incorporating two dimensions of government such as, the size and quality. The size is measured by general government final consumption expenditures. The quality of governance is measured by the index of perception of corruption which is being tested in 12 countries in the MENA region in the period between 1998 and 2011. Our empirical results indicate that when the public sector is "too big", economic growth is negatively affected and that the relationship between corruption and economic growth is significantly negative with the bad effects of this phenomenon that include a loss of revenue for the state in the benefit of the individual, the increased costs related to the conduct of the affairs of the state, an inefficient use of public spending and stifling economic growth in the region. We argued then, that investments in the capacity which strengthened governance are a priority for improving the growth of the countries examined.
Current status of iodine deficiency-related disorders prophylaxis in Slovakia – the life’s work of Julian Podoba remained unfinished
Authors: Podoba J , Racova K , Urbankova H , Srbecky M
Published: June 2016

Objective. Prophylaxis of iodine deficiency-related disorders with iodized salt in Slovakia was introduced in 1951. This prophylactic measure yielded remarkably good results. Endemic goiter and endemic cretinism disappeared. Sufficient iodine intake, mainly in children and adolescents, was confirmed in several local and international studies carried out in the period 1991–95. Unfortunately, since seventies, there has been no institution which would have dealt with iodine prophylaxis in such an extent as this important measure of Slovak preventive medicine would require. Neither systematic monitoring of iodine intake nor systematic population epidemiological studies have been carried out. We do not have any data on the iodine intake in pregnant women, the most vulnerable population group in relation to the iodine deficiency. During the period June 2014 – October 2015, we examined iodine excretion in 426 probands from three regions of Slovakia with an emphasis on the pregnant women.

Results. Iodine intake was found to be sufficient, even more than adequate, in all age groups of Slovak population. The only population group with iodine intake borderline or very mild iodine deficiency are pregnant women.

Conclusions: 1/ Iodine nutrition in Slovakia is generally sufficient, even oversteps the requirement, with the exception of pregnant women. Iodine intake in pregnant women should be fortified by iodine containing multivitamin preparations. 2/ We recommend to include the examination of urinary iodine into the screening of thyropathies in early pregnancy. 3/ It is not enough to implement the iodine deficiency-related disorders prevention programs, it is also necessary to stabilize such programs over time and balance the benefits with possible side effects of this program.
Predicting pauses in L1 and L2 speech: the effects of utterance boundaries and word frequency
Authors: de Jong Nivja H
Published: June 2016

This paper compares the distribution of silent and filled pauses in first (L1) and second language (L2) speech. The occurrence of pauses of 52 L2 and 18 L1 Dutch speakers was evaluated with respect to utterance boundaries and word frequency. We found that L2 speakers paused more often than L1 speakers within utterances; but not between utterances. Similarly, only within utterances, L2 pauses were longer than L1 pauses. Regarding word frequency, both L1 and L2 speakers are more likely to pause before lower frequency words as compared to higher frequency words. These findings imply that L1 and L2 speakers’ production processes may be similar in that (1) pauses at utterance boundaries are used for conceptual planning mostly and (2) lexical retrieval difficulties are comparable for L1 and L2 speakers. These findings furthermore imply that when using fluency for L2 testing, pause locations must be taken into account.
A qualitative analysis of perceptions of fluency in second language French
Authors: Préfontaine Yvonne , Kormos Judit
Published: June 2016

In the field of second language (L2) fluency, there is a common adherence to quantitative methods to examine characteristics and features of speech. This study extends the field by reporting on an investigation that analyzed native-speaker listeners’ perceptions of L2 fluency in French from a qualitative perspective. Three untrained judges rated students’ performance on speech tasks varying in cognitive demand and provided justifications for their perceptions of fluency. The goal of the research was to examine the factors that affect raters’ evaluations of fluency in response to three oral performances from 40 adult learners of French of varying proficiency. Qualitative analysis revealed that the main speech features that influenced native listeners’ perceptions of L2 fluency were speed, rhythm, pause phenomena, self-correction and efficiency/effortlessness in word choice, but also in target-like rhythm and prosody. The results of using such qualitative methodology highlights the important role that rhythm plays in fluency judgements in syllable-timed languages such as French, a factor which has not always been given much prominence in previous L2 fluency quantitative research.
On the skew-morphisms of dihedral groups
Authors: Zhang Jun-Yang , Du Shaofei
Published: June 2016

A skew-morphism φ of a finite group G is a permutation on G such that

φ
⁢

(
1
)

=
1

${\varphi(1)\hskip-0.853583pt=\hskip-0.853583pt1}$

and

φ
⁢

(

g
⁢
h

)

=

φ
⁢

(
g
)

⁢

φ

π
⁢

(
g
)

⁢

(
h
)

${\varphi(gh)=\varphi(g)\varphi^{\pi(g)}(h)}$

for all

g
,
h

∈
G

${g,h\in G}$

, where π is a function from G to

𝐙

|
φ
|

${\mathbf{Z}_{|\varphi|}}$

, called the power function of φ.
Furthermore, we say φ is of skew-type
k, provided π takes on exactly k values in

𝐙

|
φ
|

${\mathbf{Z}_{|\varphi|}}$

,
and call the set

Ker
⁡
φ

=

{

g
∈
G

∣

π
⁢

(
g
)

=
1

}

${\operatorname{Ker}\varphi=\{g\in G\mid\pi(g)=1\}}$

the kernel of φ, which is actually a subgroup of G (see [6]).
Though skew-morphism is a pure group theoretical concept, it is closely related to regular Cayley maps. We have a long term goal to classify all regular
Cayley maps for dihedral groups. In this paper, we mainly work on the skew-morphisms of dihedral groups. Let φ be a skew-morphism of the dihedral groups

D

2
⁢
n

=

〈

a
,
b

∣

a
n

=

b
2

=

(

a
⁢
b

)

2

=
1

〉

${D_{2n}=\langle a,b\mid a^{n}=b^{2}=(ab)^{2}=1\rangle}$

.
We prove that the kernel of φ is contained in the cyclic subgroup

〈
a
〉

${\langle a\rangle}$

if and only if φ is of skew-type 4 and preserves

〈
a
〉

${\langle a\rangle}$

. In the case of φ preserving

〈
a
〉

${\langle a\rangle}$

, we give some characterizations of φ, in particular, we prove that φ is of skew-type 1, 2 or 4. Working from these characterizations, an infinite family of skew-morphisms of

D

2
⁢
n

${D_{2n}}$

are constructed, all of which are of skew-type 4 and have kernel

〈

a
2

〉

${\langle a^{2}\rangle}$

, which gives a positive answer to an open problem raised recently by M. Conder [1].
The identification of skills and competencies for effective management in social enterprises. A managerial perspective
Authors: Wronka-Pośpiech Martyna
Published: June 2016

The need to adapt to external business requirements, turbulences present in the environment as well as the dynamic changes occurring in the non-profit sector require the presence of managers who are not only capable of taking proper care of financial issues, but also of optimally deploying available human resources. Today, organisations operate in the world without fixed rules of conduct or a universal management style. As a consequence, there is no universal recipe for success. It is, however, clear that the social enterprise should be run by a competent manager, preferably someone with a business track record and in-depth knowledge of formal issues. The literature review shows that working in a social enterprise requires a high degree of flexibility, a variety of skills and qualifications with the management facing a difficult challenge of how to simultaneously achieve social and economic objectives. The purpose of this article is to identify and explore the key competences and optimal features of the social enterprise manager. Data for the study was collected through a survey from 100 social enterprises in Poland.
Organisational culture as a part in the development of open innovation - the perspective of small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Szymańska Katarzyna
Published: June 2016

The ability to introduce various concepts and business models is nowadays a prerequisite of creating a competitive advantage. This is to a large extent closely linked to the ability of enterprises to create, implement and disseminate a variety of innovative solutions. Today the use of open innovation is a necessity. This applies not only to large organisations, but also to small and medium-sized enterprises. In order to implement open innovation, small and medium-sized enterprises need to effectively manage their own growth through the preparation of appropriate strategies and the development of a model that encompasses all changes, taking into account a number of factors related to the growth dynamics of this sector. It is understood that an appropriate organisational culture plays an important role in the implementation of innovation in the sector of small and medium-sized enterprises. There are many indications that a cultural mismatch and misunderstanding are the main reasons for major problems related to the low level of implementation of innovation by small and medium-sized enterprises. The aim of the paper is to outline the issue of the impact of organisational culture on the development of the concept of open innovation in the sector of small and medium-sized enterprises.
The mechanism of building competitiveness through strategic partnering
Authors: Adamik Anna
Published: June 2016

The paper assumes that strategic partnering, as one of the more mature forms of inter-organisational cooperation, is also an effective method of support for strategic activities of enterprises. In the light of the above, the use of strategic partnering in processes aimed at enhancing their competitiveness was proposed. The aim of the analyses is to identify and systematise the key actions in the mechanism of building competitiveness through strategic partnering of enterprises. For its implementation, a review of literature in the field of theory of organisation, theory of cooperation and partnering as well as theory of competitiveness was carried out. Empirical research to verify the initial theoretical assumptions was also conducted. Quantitative research (surveys) and qualitative research (extended case studies) was carried out. The study was based on the research procedure modelled on forecasting methods of searching for solutions to organisational problems, i.e. on creative (lateral) thinking. As a result, the algorithm of building competitiveness through mature strategic partnering was formulated and recommendations were made as to the possibility of its practical use.
Knowledge of the concept of corporate social responsibility in agribusiness enterprises (based on the example of the SME sector in Malopolska)
Authors: Ratajczak Marcin
Published: June 2016

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in Poland is relatively little known and has not been yet deeply rooted in the consciousness of Polish entrepreneurs especially in the field of SMEs and local communities. CSR is a concept whereby companies at the stage of strategy building voluntarily take into account the social interests and environmental protection, as well as relationships with their stakeholders. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to present issues related to the knowledge of the CSR concept in the surveyed agribusiness enterprises. The article presents among other things, statistical relations between knowledge of the above concept and education of owners of the business, company size or business entity year of uprising. The research on opinions of entrepreneurs on the above concepts was carried out at the turn of 2014 and 2015 included 182 micro (0-9 persons), small (10-49 employees) and medium (50-249 employees) agribusiness companies engaged in business activities in rural areas of Małopolska. The results showed that there is a need for awareness of small and medium enterprises with agribusiness that consumers increasingly pay attention to the aspect of the behavior of responsible practices, let alone to observe their assumptions. Given the nature of the business, the knowledge of the CSR concept prevailed in a group of entrepreneurs from the manufacturing sector.
The phenomenon of cyclical fluctuations on the pork market - global perspective
Authors: Stępień Sebastian , Polcyn Jan
Published: June 2016

The aim of publication was to recognize the characteristics and morphology of today’s hog cycle. The hypothesis was that known in the economy since the second half of the nineteenth century hog cycle is also a typical phenomenon in the contemporary economy. It is also claimed that cyclical supply changes of pig meat are not synchronized between countries. Fluctuations in production are country-specific and are influenced by local conditions. While in the case of pork prices there is a characteristic broad convergence of cycle between countries. Development of world trade exchange and economic integration of groups of countries lead to uniformity of cyclical changes in prices. The study included the world economy and eight selected countries with the largest share in the global production and/or foreign trade. The time range of empirical analysis (analyzing fluctuations in supply and prices) concerned the period 1991-2012.
Crystal structure of 4-[(E)-(2-chloro-6-fluorobenzylidene)amino]-1,2-dihydro-2,3-dimethyl-1-phenylpyrazol-5-one, C18H15ClFN3O
Authors: Aljohar Haya I. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Al-Tamimi Abdul-Malek S. , AlRabiah Haitham , El-Emam Ali A.
Published: June 2016

C18H15ClFN3O, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 7.5459(3) Å, b = 25.4267(9) Å, c = 17.0478(6) Å, β = 91.718(2)°, V = 3269.4(2) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt
(F) = 0.0669, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1263, T = 100 K.
Crystal structure of 2-amino-4-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile, C17H13F3N2O2
Authors: Bu Xian-Zhong , Shi Juan-Juan , Gao Ke , Long Tao
Published: June 2016

C17H13F3N2O2, triclinic, P1̅ (No. 2), a = 8.2615(7) Å, b = 8.7262(7) Å, c = 11.6521(9) Å, α = 105.872(7)°, β = 104.107(7)°, γ = 95.738(7)°, V = 771.02(11) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0548, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1332, T = 293 K.
Crystal structure of 3-methyl-2H-chromen-2-one, C10H8O2
Authors: Fan-Xin Zeng , Xu-Liang Nie , Xin-Chen Shang-guan , Zhong-Ping Yin , Da-Yong Peng
Published: June 2016

C10H8O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 6.524(3) Å, b = 17.561(9) Å, c = 6.989(4) Å, β = 100.058(7)°, V = 788.4(7) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0418, wR
ref
(F
2) = 0.1069, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of 1-(3-chloropropyl)piperidin-1-ium tetraphenylborate, C32H37BClN
Authors: Mostafa Gamal A.E. , Ghabbour Hazem A.
Published: June 2016

C32H37BClN, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 15.7303(6) Å, b = 9.1129(3) Å, c = 19.9295(8) Å, β = 109.143(2)°, V = 2698.9(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0483, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1265, T = 100 K.
Key Factors for the Successful Operation of Clusters: The Case for Slovenia
Authors: Gajšek Brigita , Kovač Jure
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose: Companies are increasingly specializing and developing those key areas with which they can compete on the global market and are linking in clusters that are ingredient of territorial competitiveness. Clusters can play a competitive role in global value chains but once being successful, they may decline. For this reason, researching key factors for the successful operation of clusters in Slovenia is beneficial.

Methodology: This study is based on an extensive review of scientific literature. Theoretical findings are tested by a study of clustering in Slovenia. In practice, we determine the number of operating clusters fifteen years after they were initiated by the institutional environment with help of web pages, e-mails and telephone calls. Using interviews, we determine reasons for the cessation of operations on the part of former directors and factors of successful operations with directors of successful clusters.

Results: The institutional environment initiated start-up processes of creating clusters in Slovenia. After the termination of institutional financial support, Slovenian clusters, which have failed to develop their own financing system, ceased operation. Directors of still operating clusters confirmed that trust between cluster members is the most important success factor in the operation of clusters.

Conclusion: The institutional environment in Slovenia adopted cluster policy and successfully leveraged the establishment of clusters using start-up financing. Less than half of these clusters continue to prosper under their own stream after policy retreatment. Clusters were not prepared for a dramatically different way of working. Trust has become a major driving force of adjusting to new conditions.
Spatial data processing for the purpose of video games
Authors: Chądzyńska Dominika , Gotlib Dariusz
Published: June 2016

Advanced terrain models are currently commonly used in many video/computers games. Professional GIS technologies, existing spatial datasets and cartographic methodology are more widely used in their development. This allows for achieving a realistic model of the world. On the other hand, the so-called game engines have very high capability of spatial data visualization. Preparing terrain models for the purpose of video games requires knowledge and experience of GIS specialists and cartographers, although it is also accessible for non-professionals. The authors point out commonness and variety of use of terrain models in video games and the existence of a series of ready, advanced tools and procedures of terrain model creating. Finally the authors describe the experiment of performing the process of data modeling for “Condor Soar Simulator”.
Severe Endothelial Damage in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Prior to Haemodialysis Vascular Access Surgery
Authors: Pushevski Vladimir , Dejanov Petar , Gerasimovska Vesna , Petrushevska Gordana , Oncevski Angel , Sikole Aleksandar , Popov Zivko , Ivanovski Ninoslav
Published: June 2016

Background: Hemodialysis as an efficient therapy for advanced CKD is the most used treatment modality all over the world. Even though primary AVF is widely accepted as a best permanent vascular access in hemodialysis patients, up to 60% of all fistulas fail to mature. The pathogenesis of early fistula failure is not very well understood. Many general and local factors are involved: patient′s age, sex, primary renal disease, small vessel′s diameter, presence of accessory veins, prior venipunctures, surgical skill, genetics, etc. Histological investigations have confirmed the neointimal venous hyperplasia as a major pathological finding in stenotic lesions of AVF failure, due to local inflammation, oxidative stress and migration and proliferation of myofibroblasts, fibroblasts and endothelial cells.

Materials and methods: A total of 89 patients with stadium 4-5 of CKD are involved in the study. A typical radio-cephalic AVF is created in all patients. Part of the fistula vein was taken for histological, immunohistochemical (Vimentin, TGF β and KI67) and morphometric analysis. Appriopriate statistical method was applied.

Results: Up to 80% of the patients showed some degree of endothelial changes at the time of creation of AVF, among them 19 pts with substantial intimal hyperplasia, 51 with medial hypertrophy and 19 pts with normal histology. Almost two thirds of the patients did not have expression of TGFβ. More than 95% had some expression of Vimentin. None of the patients had expression of the marker KI 67.

Conclusion: Medial hypertrophy is predominant preexisting pathohistological lesion prior the AVF creation, despite the presence of neointimal hyperplasia. The absence of TGFβ expression in majority of our patients could suggest that inflammation and oxidative stress are developing later, after vascular access surgery. The dominant cells within the stenosis in the veins are myofibroblasts. Their increased presence maybe a reason why some patients are prone to developing venous endothelial changes as a results of exaggerated vascular endothelial response to the effect of uremia, hypertension and other insults.