bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes On The Status Of Viola Uliginosa In Lithuania
Authors: Matulevičiūtė Dalytė
Published: July 2015

The number of localities and the recent status of the populations of Viola uliginosa were unknown due to the absence of data. The short note presents recent data on the occurrence of this species in the Žalgiriai Forest (Šilutė district, western part of Lithuania). These data confirm the fact of the survival of V. uliginosa in the territory of the country and possibility of broader distribution of the species in Lithuania. Potential habitats and threats were discussed. Recent status of two populations of V. uliginosa in the Žalgiriai Forest is considered to be good. However, the vicinity of clear-cut area may have negative influence due to possible water table changes in the habitat of one population, while another population might be threatened in case of clear cuttings in the habitat.
Gis-Based Flow Routing with the Distributed Hydrological Wetspa Model in the Ziarat River Basin - Gorgan, Iran
Authors: Javidan N. , Bahremand A.
Published: July 2015

The GIS-based distributed hydrological model, WetSpa, whose flow routing method is described in this paper is suitable for flood prediction and watershed management on catchment scale. The model predicts outflow hydrographs at the basin outlet or at any converging point in the watershed, and it does so at a user-specified time step. The model is physically based, spatially distributed and timecontinuous. This paper focuses on the GISbased diffusive transport approach for the determination of rainfall runoff response and flood routing through a catchment. The watershed is represented as a grid cell mesh, and routing of runoff from each cell to the basin outlet is accomplished using the first passage time response function based on the mean and variance of the flow time distribution, which is derived from the advection-dispersion transport equation.The flow velocity is location dependent and calculated in each cell by the Manning equation based on the local slope, roughness coefficient and hydraulic radius. The hydraulic radius is determined according to the geophysical properties of the catchment and the flood frequency. The total direct runoff at the basin outlet is obtained by superimposing all contributions from every grid cell. The model is tested on the Ziarat _Gorgan watershed with 4 years of observed hourly rainfall and discharge data, and the results are in excellent agreement with the measured hydrograph at the basin outlet
Analysis of Allelic Variation in Hmw-Glu-1 Gene Blocks in Iranian Wheat Cultivars using Alp Molecular Marker
Authors: Shiri Y. , Solouki M. , Forootan M.
Published: July 2015

In order to study the allelic variation of Glu-1 gene (High molecular weight glutenin), 100 Iranian wheat cultivars including imported and domestic genotypes were analyzed using ALP-PCR technique. Four specific primer pairs were used based on the genetic loci of Glu-A1, Glu-B1, and Glu-D1 to perform the chain polymerase reactions. PCR reaction products were resolved on 2% agarose gel. Since allele “a” had the largest relative frequency (0.707), two alleles (a 344bp; b 362bp) were identified by P1-P2 primer for Glu-A1 locus. Three alleles (a 800bp; b 500bp; c 300bp) were detected for Glu-B1 locus by P5-P6 primer, and allele “b” was assumed as the highest relative frequency (0.618). Two primer pairs were applied for Glu-D1 locus. Ultimately, four alleles were identified, where allele “c” had the highest relative frequency (0.525). The observed genetic variation value for Glu-D1 locus (H=0.648) exhibits the maximal polymorphism. Using cluster analysis, the relationship between the observed polymorphism and geographical variation was investigated. The results indicated that there exists a remarkable variation in Glu- A1 locus between the Iranian wheat cultivars.
Study of Germination and Seedling Growth of Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa L.) Treated by Hydro and Osmopriming under Salt Stress Conditions
Authors: Ahmadian A. , Shiri Y. , Froozandeh M.
Published: July 2015

The objective of the study was to determine the responsible factors for germination and early seedling growth due to salt toxicity or osmotic effect and to optimize the best priming treatment for these stress conditions. To study the effect of osmopriming and hydropriming on germination and seedling growth of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) under salt stress conditions this experiment was conducted at Torbat-Heydariyeh University, Torbat, Iran. The treated seeds (control, hydropriming and ZnSO4) of black cumin were evaluated at germination and seedling growth for tolerance to salt (NaCl and Na2SO4) conditions at the same water potentials of 0.0, -0.3, -0.6, -0.9 and -1.2MPa. Electrical conductivity (EC) values of the NaCl solutions were 0.0, 6.5, 12.7, 18.4 and 23.5 dSm-1, respectively. Results showed that hydropriming increased germination and seedling growth under salt stress. Germination delayed in both solutions, having variable germination with different priming treatments. In NaCl treatment, germination percentage, root and shoot weight, shoot and root length were higher but mean germination time and abnormal germination percentage were lower than Na2SO4, at the same water potential. The root / shoot weight and R/S length enhanced with increase of osmotic potential in both NaCl and Na2SO4 solutions. NaCl had less inhibitor effect on seedling growth than the germination. It was concluded that inhibition of germination at the same water potential of NaCl and Na2SO4 resulted from salt toxicity rather than osmotic effect. The findings of this experiment can be useful and applied to achieve best germination and uniform emergence under field conditions for farmers of medicinal plants.
Robust model-based predictive control of exothermic chemical reactor
Authors: Oravec Juraj , Bakošová Monika
Published: July 2015

A case study of the robust model-based predictive control (MPC) of an exothermic continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) with uncertain parameters is presented. Three robust MPC approaches are considered and the simulation results are compared in terms of quality of control performance and total consumption of coolant. The results reveal the main benefits of the considered approaches and confirm that the robust MPC can bring about a reduction in consumption of the coolant.
The polysemy of the Spanish verb sentir: A behavioral profile analysis
Authors: Jansegers Marlies , Vanderschueren Clara , Enghels Renata
Published: July 2015

This study investigates the intricate polysemy of the Spanish perception verbsentir(‘feel’) which, analogous to the more-studied visual perception verbsver(‘see’) andmirar(‘look’), also displays an ample gamut of semantic uses in various syntactic environments. The investigation is based on a corpus-based behavioral profile (BP) analysis. Besides its methodological merits as a quantitative, systematic and verifiable approach to the study of meaning and to polysemy in particular, the BP analysis offers qualitative usage-based evidence for cognitive linguistic theorizing. With regard to the polysemy ofsentir, the following questions were addressed: (1) What is the prototype of each cluster of senses? (2) How are the different senses structured: how many senses should be distinguished – i.e., which senses cluster together and which senses should be kept separately? (3) Which senses are more related to each other and which are highly distinguishable? (4) What morphosyntactic variables make them more or less distinguishable? The results show that two significant meaning clusters can be distinguished, which coincide with the division between the middle voice uses (sentirse) and the other uses (sentir). Within these clusters, a number of meaningful subclusters emerge, which seem to coincide largely with the more general semantic categories of physical, cognitive and emotional perception.
Reply to “More (old and new) misunderstandings of collostructional analysis: On Schmid & Küchenhoff” by Stefan Th. Gries
Authors: Küchenhoff Helmut , Schmid Hans-Jörg
Published: July 2015

This is a reply to a commentary by Stefan Gries on a paper published by us in this journal in 2013. We focus on explaining the inadequacy of p-values of the Fisher Exact test as a measure of lexicogrammatical attraction and on the cognitive underpinnings of collostructional analysis. In addition, we touch more briefly on further issues, including the marginal conditioning of the Fisher Exact test and the idea of infinite strength of attraction between constructions and lexemes. We conclude with recommendations for a gold standard for applications of collostructional analysis using odds ratio, reliance and attraction scores.
The validity of cross-validation usage in generating digital relief model of an anthropogenically transformed area
Authors: Zarychta Roksana
Published: July 2015

Digital relief models deliver a valuable information about the morphology of a particular area. They are useful in structural geomorphology analysis. However, their correct generation requires knowledge of geostatistic methods, including cross-validation. This article presents the importance of cross-validation, using the example of the Grodziec area (Silesian Upland, southern Poland). The choice of the test area was determined by its geomorphology – high altitude differences (140 meters maximum) and the co-occurence of landforms of different rank, genesis and size. This area includes some towering hills – monadnocks, which are Middle-Triassic cuesta remainders. These forms clearly dominate in the surrounding area incised by river valleys. Besides the large forms sculptured by erosion and denudation processes, there are also anthropogenic landforms – stone pits – of much smaller size. We asked the question whether and to what extent they will be “visible” on digital relief models depending on the variogram model setup. Two digital relief models were generated (one with a deliberately incorrect and one with the correct variogram setup) and verified using the cross-validation method. The results of this experiment show that correct digital model carries only slight overestimation of mean squared standardized error while the incorrect model shows substantial underestimation of sampling points values. The correct model is more vivid – it clearly shows most of the relief details while the DTM (digital terrain model) generated by the incorrect setup is misrepresented and blurred. This indicates that conclusions based on incorrect relief models may be subject to high errors.
Landscape management on post-exploitation land using the example of the Silesian region, Poland
Authors: Myga-Piątek Urszula
Published: July 2015

More and more often, post-mining and post-exploitation areas, which have been heavily transformed by man’s economic activities, are no longer a danger to the environment, but they enhance the monotonous urban-industrial landscape of a particular region and are instead its identifying value. Activities regarding the planning of landscape development are very difficult. This paper emphasizes some of the problems that result from legal barriers with regard to the concept of the more diversified management of post-mining areas as substantial forms of the landscape. In the process of the complex shaping of the natural environment in reclamation actions regarding post-mining areas geographers, biologists and architects have a large role to play.. Due to the fact that landscape management falls within the scope of interest and competencies of many stakeholders, such as: government, regional and self-government institutions, nature, monument and state forest protection authorities as well as the scientific community from various disciplines, it is very difficult to reach a consensus in this matter and to develop uniform operating procedures. The landscape management problems on postindustrial areas have been illustrated through the example of the region of Silesia. The cultural landscape of the region has been intensively developed in the last thousand years, but signs of human impact are much older, dating back to the pre-historical and early Medieval periods. The Silesia region is currently undergoing a major spatial reconstruction.
Genesis and development of the spatial structures in former border railway centres Mysłowice – Szczakowa – Granica (Maczki), Poland
Authors: Krzysztofik Robert , Dragan Weronika , Gierczak Dariusz
Published: July 2015

The article addresses the question of the emergence of urban centres with a gateway function in the area of contemporary Poland. The work concentrates on three urban centres – Mysłowice, Szczakowa and Granica (Maczki) – which gateway function was conditioned by the existence of railway border crossings in the past that provided services for international transport. The interpretation of settlements and their transformations followed the town plan analysis includes method of Conzen. The article indicates spatial consequences of this kind of function which influenced a significant part of the urban area in the indicated towns. The study highlights the dynamics of spatial changes contemporarily conditioned by the loss of the former gateway function and a fact that role of the border has been marginalized. From the other point of view the decreasing role of the political borders which have become in Europe in most cases barely a symbolic meaning. In the presented case studies the key aspect determining the marginalization of their role in the rail transport system and also their urban development was the change of the political borders and their negative consequences (demolition post-rail areas, formation of functionally derelict areas or depopulation). Former glory and role of these three towns are the still existing railway stations. Fortunately, presented railway stations – their potential and heritage give new possibilities for ideas of functional changes and future development.
Recreational use and health functions of allotments gardens in the Katowice conurbation, Poland
Authors: Duś Edward
Published: July 2015

Allotment gardens are multifunctional elements of urban space, which have been shaped by various strands of development, among which a significant role is played by health purposes and recreational use. Different aspects and problems of the recreational use of allotments in the industrial area of the Katowice conurbation in Silesia, southern Poland are the scope for this analysis, and are considered against the background of their historical development. Allotment gardens are important components of an urban recreation system, and a primary base for recreation by the owners of these allotments. Time spent in gardens is filled with physical activities associated with taking care of them and also for passive recreation. An advantage is the possibility to spend leisure time, especially by hard working people or those with limited possibilities to access other forms of recreation. An advantage is the possibility to spend leisure time, especially by hard working people or those with limited possibilities to access other forms of recreation. The date of commencement of work and the number of people spending leisure time on the plots are dependent on weather conditions and being at the disposal of free time. Therefore, recreation is characterized by seasonality, and reveals significant differences in the number of allotment users each day. Socio-economic changes in the last few years have resulted in significant changes in the methods of utilising these gardens and the type of recreational use of individual allotments.
Synthesis and electrical properties of silver nanoplates for electronic applications
Authors: Xiong Nana , Li Zhili , Xie Hui , Zhao Yuzhen , Li Mei , Wang Yuehui , Li Jingze
Published: July 2015

In this paper, silver nanoplates of 100 to 500 nm size were synthesized by reduction of silver nitrate with N,Ndimethylformamide, using poly(vinylpyrolidone) as a surfactant and ferric chloride as a controlling agent, at 120 to 160 °C for 5 to 24 hours. The influence of the concentration of ferric chloride, the reaction temperature and reaction time on the morphology of the product has been investigated by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results indicated that the products obtained at the low reaction temperature and short reaction time in the presence of FeCl3 in the reaction solution were in the form of silver nanoplates, whose morphology was mainly triangular and hexagonal. In addition, the size and thickness of the nanoplates increased with increasing of the FeCl3 concentration. At a high reaction temperature and long reaction time, the truncated triangle and hexagonal nanoplates were mainly produced. Furthermore, the sintering behavior of nanoplates was studied and the results showed that sintering of the silver nanoplates started at 180 °C, and a typical sintering behavior was observed at higher temperatures. The incorporation of the silver nanoplates into the polymer matrix with micro-sized silver flakes led to an increase in the matrix resistivity in almost all cases, especially at high fractions and low curing temperatures. The curing temperature had an influence on the resistivity of the conductive adhesives filled with micro-sized silver flakes and silver nanoplates due to sintering of the silver nanoplates.
Morphology of polyamide 6 confined into carbon nanotubes
Authors: Piegat Agnieszka , Staniszewski Zygmunt , Poeppel Artur , El Fray Miroslawa
Published: July 2015

The preparation of polymer nanocomposites filled with carbon nanotubes requires the nanotubes to be uniformly dispersed and compatible with the polymer matrix. In this work we report a preparation method of polyamide 6 (PA 6) based nanocomposite containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) without any additional surface modification and obtained by in situ polymerization, as a simple method for composites production. The process was assisted by ultrasounds prior to synthesis.With such a method, an interesting morphology of polyamide 6 confined into a multiwalled carbon nanotube as well as grafted on a carbon nanotube surface was observed. For comparative purpose, PA 6 nanocomposites were also prepared from commercially available master batch by melt compounding.
Solvothermal synthesis and magnetic properties of β-Co2P nanorods
Authors: Li Tian , Liao Jun Peng , Wang Ying Feng
Published: July 2015

Hexagonal high temperature phase β-Co2P nanorods with a diameter of around 50 nm were synthesized via a mild solvothermal route. The reaction was carried out at 180 °C using cobalt chloride hexahydrate (CoCl2 · 6H2O) as Co source and yellow phosphorous as P source. The composition, structure as well as morphology were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The magnetic susceptibility curve indicates that the β-Co2P nanorods show canted antiferromagnetic state, different from the paramagnetic state of orthorhombic low temperature phase β-Co2P.
Theatre Reviews
Authors: Georgopoulou Xenia , Pilla Eleni , Kizelbach Urszula , Fabiszak Jacek
Published: July 2015

Romeo and Juliet for Two. Dir. Kostas Gakis, Athina Moustaka, Konstantinos Bibis. 104 Theatre, Athens, Greece.

Lady Macbeth. Dir. Marios Mettis. Theatro Thentro, Nicosia, Cyprus

Hamlet. Dir. Jan Klata. Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre, Gdańsk, Poland

The Taming of the Shrew [Poskromienie złośnicy]. Dir. Katarzyna Deszcz. Stefan Żeromski Theatre, Kielce, Poland
Crystal structure 2,2’-diselanediyldibenzoic acid— dimethylformamide (1/2), C18H22N4O6Se2
Authors: Niu De-Zhong , Yao Lin , Zhang Yuwei
Published: July 2015

C18H22N4O6Se2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 7.3648(4) Å, b = 15.2480(7) Å, c = 9.9280(5) Å, β = 101.311(3)°, V = 1093.2 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0230, wRref(F2) = 0.0602, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of (2E)-2-[3-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1-phenylpropylidene]- hydrazinecarboxamide monohydrate, C13H17N5O2
Authors: Attia Mohamed I. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: July 2015

C13H17N5O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 11.1953(3) Å, b = 5.5215(2) Å, c = 22.6998(5) Å, β = 99.929(2)°, V = 1382.2 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0373, wRref(F2) = 0.1104, T = 296 K.
Redetermination of the crystal structure of di-(4,7,13,16,21,24-hexaoxa- 1,10-diazabicyclo[8.8.8]hexacosane-κ8N2,O6) potassium – tetrapotassium octadecagermanide – ethylenediamine (1:1:7), C25H64Ge9K3N9O6
Authors: Mayer Kerstin , Giebel Michael , Bentlohner Manuel M. , Klein Wilhelm , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: July 2015

C25H64Ge9K3N9O6, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 9.3766(7) A, b = 13.540(1) A, c = 19.507(1) A, α = 84.527(3)°, β = 81.252(3)°, γ = 80.127(4)°, V = 2405.4 A3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0405, wRref(F2) = 0.1050, T = 123 K.
Web Presence of Indian Digital Culture
Authors: Sharma Seemu , Bawa Seema , Lomash Hitashi
Published: July 2015

Our day-to-day needs are greatly dependent on information and communications technology (ICT)—as represented by the Internet. Knowledge about culture is no exception. This paper focuses on the availability of digital cultural information about India on the Web. We aim to answer three questions: How is Indian culture represented on the Web? How are Indian cultural heritage sites being used? Who is using the sites? The study also examines the usability of these sites, and whether they are maintained. Content, ranking, and users’ age groups are the three criteria on which this analysis has been based.
Using Theory to Understand Digital Preservation Management in Ghana
Authors: Boamah Eric , Dorner Daniel George , Oliver Gillian
Published: July 2015

In this paper we discuss how Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation theory and Davies’ Policy, Strategy and Resources (PSR) troika model were used to underpin a Ph. D. study that explored contextual factors influencing the current state of digital preservation management in Ghana. Our goal is to explain how these theories were employed so that other researchers will be able to use them effectively to understand other related research problems. The research on which this paper is based employed an interpretive single-case-study approach. Four main clusters of contextual factors—attitude-related, resource-related, policy-related, and management-related factors—were found to be influencing digital preservation management in Ghana. We present a summary of these factors at the end of the paper. Awareness of these can enable the effective development of a digital preservation program and lead to the establishment of a national digital memory for Ghana and other developing countries.
The Polish Adaptation of FACES IV-SOR
Authors: Margasiński Andrzej
Published: July 2015

My paper describes a Polish adaptation of the family assessment tool called FACES IV. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit of the model to the data with a sample of 499 Polish individuals from 150 families. The reliability measures of the two Balanced scales are similar to those of the American scales. However, the four Unbalanced scales have lower reliability. Reliability measures of Family Satisfaction and Family Communication are even higher than the American ones. A cluster analysis clearly depicted the extreme profiles of the Balanced and Unbalanced scales, with the remaining four profiles also present. Norms were developed for the various scales. Psychometric verification of this instrument showed that FACES IV-SOR is useful for research and clinical work with Polish families.
What Drives Shopping Mall Attractiveness?
Authors: Dębek Michał
Published: July 2015

My article investigated the drivers of shopping mall attractiveness. Which of various shopping mall qualities are key to building a mall’s attractiveness? This was the fundamental question in the cross-sectional, survey-based correlational study. The participants included 384 adult Poles (192 men and 192 women whose median age was 22). The survey included 58 items – nine to measure the shopping mall’s attractiveness (its emotional impact, cognitive effect and the customer’s visiting frequency), and 49 to measure its hypothetical predictors. The investigated objects were six urban shopping malls in Wroclaw, Poland. It turned out that shopping mall attractiveness was driven mainly by their atmosphere and social positioning. Surprisingly, the more subjectively noisy and crowded the shopping mall was, the more attractive it appeared to be; commerce-related features, on the other hand, while usually treated as vital to a shopping center, contributed relatively little to the mall’s attractiveness.
Two new species of Otiorhynchus GERMAR, 1822 subgenus Lixorrhynchus REITTER, 1914 from Morocco (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Otiorhynchini)
Authors: Białooki Piotr Z. , Germann Christoph , Pelletier Jean
Published: July 2015

Otiorhynchus (Lixorrhynchus) deceptorius sp. n. and O. (L.) incisus sp. n. from northern Morocco are described and illustrated. Both new species are superficially similar to Mirorhynchus bellus MAGNANO, 2003 based on the conspicuously laterally incised rostrum. The erroneous indication of M. bellus from Cyprus is corrected here to Crete
Relationships between bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Apiformes) and flowers in the Bulgarian agricultural landscape
Authors: Banaszak Józef , Szefer Piotr , Dochkova Bojana
Published: July 2015

The species composition and number of visitations of food plants by bees were studied in refuge sites in agricultural landscapes and in selected crops. The habitat fragments of interest are characterised in terms of pollinator diversity at genus level and the use of food plants by individual genera. Trophic and temporal niche overlap is described for individual genera and the honey bee Apis mellifera in different habitat types. Factors influencing the manner of use of individual plant species by pollinating insects are identified
Fibulin-3 as a biomarker of response to treatment in malignant mesothelioma
Authors: Kovac Viljem , Dodic-Fikfak Metoda , Arneric Niko , Dolzan Vita , Franko Alenka
Published: July 2015

Background. Fibulin-3 is a new potential biomarker for malignant mesothelioma (MM). This study evaluated the potential applicability of fibulin-3 plasma levels as a biomarker of response to treatment and its prognostic value for progressive disease within 18 months. The potential applicability of fibulin-3 in comparison with or in addition to soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRP) was also assessed.

Patients and methods. The study included 78 MM patients treated at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana between 2007 and 2011. Fibulin-3 levels in plasma samples obtained before treatment and in various responses to treatment were measured with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results. In patients evaluated before the treatment, fibulin-3 levels were not influenced by histopathological sub-types, tumour stages or the presence of metastatic disease. Significantly higher fibulin-3 levels were found in progressive disease as compared to the levels before treatment (Mann-Whitney [U] test = 472.50, p = 0.003), in complete response to treatment (U = 42.00, p = 0.010), and in stable disease (U = 542.00, p = 0.001). Patients with fibulin-3 levels exceeding 34.25 ng/ml before treatment had more than four times higher probability for developing progressive disease within 18 months (odds ratio [OR] = 4.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.56–12.13). Additionally, patients with fibulin-3 levels above 34.25 ng/ml after treatment with complete response or stable disease had increased odds for progressive disease within 18 months (OR = 6.94, 95% CI 0.99–48.55 and OR = 4.39, 95% CI 1.63–11.81, respectively).

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that in addition to SMRP fibulin-3 could also be helpful in detecting the progression of MM.
Endobronchial ultrasound elastography strain ratio for mediastinal lymph node diagnosis
Authors: Rozman Ales , Marc Malovrh Mateja , Adamic Katja , Subic Tjasa , Kovac Viljem , Flezar Matjaz
Published: July 2015

Background. Ultrasound elastography is an imaging procedure that can assess the biomechanical characteristics of different tissues. The aim of this study was to define the diagnostic value of the endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) elastography strain ratio of mediastinal lymph nodes in patients with a suspicion of lung cancer. The diagnostic values of the strain ratios were compared with the EBUS brightness mode (B-mode) features of selected mediastinal lymph nodes and with their cytological diagnoses.

Patients and methods. This prospective, single-centre study enrolled patients with an indication for biopsy and mediastinal staging after a non-invasive diagnostic workup of a lung tumour. EBUS with standard B-mode evaluation and elastography with strain ratio measurement were performed before endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA).

Results. Thirty-three patients with 80 suspicious mediastinal lymph nodes were included. Malignant infiltration was confirmed in 34 (42.5%) lymph nodes. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the strain ratio was 0.87 (p < 0.0001). At a strain ratio ≥ 8, the accuracy for malignancy prediction was 86.25% (sensitivity 88.24%, specificity 84.78%, positive predictive value [PPV] 81.08%, negative predictive value [NPV] 90.70%). The strain ratio is more accurate than conventional B-mode EBUS modalities for differentiating between malignant and benign lymph nodes.

Conclusions. EBUS-guided elastography with strain ratio assessment can distinguish malignant from benign mediastinal lymph nodes with greater accuracy than conventional EBUS modalities. This new method may reduce the number of mediastinal EBUS-TBNAs and thus reduce the invasiveness and expense of mediastinal staging in patients with non-small lung cancer (NSCLC).
Central nervous system imaging in childhood Langerhans cell histiocytosis – a reference center analysis
Authors: Porto Luciana , Schöning Stefan , Hattingen Elke , Sörensen Jan , Jurcoane Alina , Lehrnbecher Thomas
Published: July 2015

Background. The aim of our study was (1) to describe central nervous system (CNS) manifestations in children with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) based on images sent to a reference center and meeting minimum requirements and (2) to assess the inter-rater agreement of CNS-MRI results, which represents the overall reproducibility of this investigation.

Methods. We retrospectively reviewed brain MRI examinations in children with LCH, for which MRI minimum requirements were met. Abnormalities were rated by two experienced neuroradiologists, and the inter-rater agreement was assessed.

Results. Out of a total of 94 imaging studies, only 31 MRIs met the minimum criteria, which included T2w, FLAIR, T1w images before/after contrast in at least two different section planes, and thin post contrast sagittal slices T1w through the sella. The most common changes were osseous abnormalities, followed by solid enlargement of the pineal gland, thickened enhancing stalk and signal changes of the dentate nucleus. Whereas inter-rater agreement in assessing most of the CNS lesions was relatively high (κ > 0.61), the application of minimum criteria often did not allow to evaluate the posterior pituitary.

Conclusions. The diversity of radiological protocols from different institutions leads to difficulties in the diagnosis of CNS abnormalities in children with LCH. Although the inter-rater agreement between neuroradiologists was high, not all the LCH manifestations could be completely ruled out when using the minimum criteria. Brain MRIs should therefore follow LCH guideline protocols and include T1 pre-gadolinium sagittal images, and be centrally reviewed in order to improve the comparison of clinical trials.
CA19-9 serum levels predict micrometastases in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Jagric Tomaz , Potrc Stojan , Mis Katarina , Plankl Mojca , Mars Tomaz
Published: July 2015

Background

We explored the prognostic value of the up-regulated carbohydrate antigen (CA19-9) in node-negative patients with gastric cancer as a surrogate marker for micrometastases.

Patients and methods

Micrometastases were determined using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) for a subgroup of 30 node-negative patients. This group was used to determine the cut-off for preoperative CA19-9 serum levels as a surrogate marker for micrometastases. Then 187 node-negative T1 to T4 patients were selected to validate the predictive value of this CA19-9 threshold.

Results

Patients with micrometastases had significantly higher preoperative CA19-9 serum levels compared to patients without micrometastases (p= 0.046). CA19-9 serum levels were significantly correlated with tumour site, tumour diameter, and perineural invasion. Although not reaching significance, subgroup analysis showed better five-year survival rates for patients with CA19-9 serum levels below the threshold, compared to patients with CA19-9 serum levels above the cut-off. The cumulative survival for T2 to T4 node-negative patients was significantly better with CA19-9 serum levels below the cut-off (p= 0.04).

Conclusions

Preoperative CA19-9 serum levels can be used to predict higher risk for haematogenous spread and micrometastases in node-negative patients. However, CA19-9 serum levels lack the necessary sensitivity and specificity to reliably predict micrometastases.
Malacofauna of Selected Protected Landscape Areas in Bohemia (Czech Republic)
Authors: Hlava J. , Hlavová A.
Published: July 2015

Molluscan diversity in selected Protected Landscape Areas (PLA) of Bohemia (Czech Republic) was monitored. For the study, the small-scale PLAs of the Slavkovský Les, the Blanský Les, and the Labské Pískovce were selected. Over 12 500 specimens in total representing 62 mollusc species were found within 2012-2013 by means of hand collecting and sieving the litter layer. To evaluate similarity among the localities, the Jaccard and Sörensen’s indices were calculated. The significance of such data is mainly in their presentation in the available resources such as peer-reviewed scientific journals
Raffinose-Series Oligosaccharides in Soybean Products
Authors: Švejstil R. , Musilová Š. , Rada V.
Published: July 2015

Soybean foods forming a substantial part of Asian diet have still more expanded into European diet. Raffinose-series oligosaccharides (RSO) are important constituents of soya beans and they can be found also in soybean products. These oligosaccharides can be considered potentially prebiotic for their capability of influencing the composition of the host’s intestinal microbiota. The aim of the present paper was to determine the oligosaccharide content in various soybean products. Enzymatic assay has been used for the determination of oligosaccharides. RSO have been found in all tested samples and their content varied from 0.66 g per 100 g in soybean beverage to 5.59 g per 100 g in first clear soybean flour. Generally, the highest content of RSO has been detected in soybean flour in the average amount of 4.83 g per 100 g. There was no statistically significant difference observed in the amount of oligosaccharides in all four types of soybean flour (P < 0.01). Considerably high amounts of RSO have been found in sweet soybean bars and textured soy protein. Foods as soybean flour and soybean bar ‘Sójový suk’ seem to be effective natural sources of prebiotic oligosaccharides for humans.
Numerical and experimental determination of in-structure temperature profiles
Authors: Zozulák Marek , Katunský Dušan
Published: July 2015

When building physics simulations are done initial conditions express the actual hygrothermal state of building envelope. For the temperature field simulations initial condition is represented by the initial temperature in the body profile at the start of heat transfer. In-structure temperature varies quickly so temperature initial conditions are often neglected. Nevertheless in specific cases initial conditions have to be taken into an account even when simple temperature field simulations are done. The contribution shows various temperature initial conditions determination for insulated construction of outdoor test cell. Comparison of measured and calculated temperature profiles in structure shows correctness of start-up pre-calculation initial condition consideration
Natural aggregate totally replacement by mechanically treated concrete waste
Authors: Junak Jozef , Stevulova Nadezda
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the results obtained from the research focused on the utilization of crushed concrete waste aggregates as a partial or full replacement of 4/8 and 8/16 mm natural aggregates fraction in concrete strength class C 16/20. Main concrete characteristics such as workability, density and compressive strength were studied. Compressive strength testing intervals for samples with recycled concrete aggregates were 2, 7, 14 and 28 days. The amount of water in the mixtures was indicative. For mixture resulting consistency required slump grade S3 was followed. Average density of all samples is in the range of 2250 kg/m3 to 2350 kg/m3. The highest compressive strength after 28 days of curing, 34.68 MPa, reached sample, which contained 100% of recycled material in 4/8 mm fraction and 60% of recycled aggregates in 8/16 mm fraction. This achieved value was only slightly different from the compressive strength 34.41 MPa of the reference sample.
Modern Methods for Cost Management in Construction Enterprises
Authors: Mesároš Peter , Mandičák Tomáš , Selín Jozef
Published: July 2015

Cost management should be seen as an essential function of enterprises which perform their activities in current market environment. One of the main factors affecting the level of achieved profit and favourable market position is cost structure. The company's ability to obtain necessary and reliable information on their own cost, subsequent processing and effective cost management is crucial for achieving success. This study focuses on cost management and the use of modern methods of cost management in construction enterprises. The aim of this paper is to identify approaches to cost management in Slovak construction enterprises, based on own empirical research.
A response to Keates and Kuzmin
Authors: Li Feng , Kuhn Steven L. , Gao Xing
Published: July 2015

Susan Keates and Yaroslav Kuzmin have contributed valuable comments on our assessment of the chronology and technological characteristics of Shuidonggou localities 1 and 2. These comments have demonstrated some discordance in our publications that should be corrected here. Their rationale for abandoning the conclusions altogether is, however, weak at best. Most importantly, there is no reason to return to the chronology for the Initial Upper Palaeolithic (hereafter termed IUP) assemblages at the Shuidonggou site complex (SDG) proposed by Madsen et al. (2001). Keates and Kuzmin's critique focuses on two separate issues: the first is our characterisation of the assemblages from the lower part of SDG 2, and the second is our handling of the dates. We will address these in order.
Oncofertility: a grand collaboration between reproductive medicine and oncology
Authors: Woodruff Teresa K
Published: July 2015

In 2007, I was asked by the University of Calgary to participate in a symposium called ‘Pushing the Boundaries – Advances that Will Change the World in 20 Years’. My topic was oncofertility, a word I had just coined to describe the intersection of two disciplines – oncology and fertility – and I was thrilled to share my passion for this new field and help young women with cancer protect their future reproductive health. Fertility preservation in the cancer setting lacked a concerted effort to bridge the disciplines in an organized manner. In early 2015, I was delighted to deliver a presentation for the Society for Reproduction and Fertility titled ‘Sex in Three Cities’, where I gave an update on the oncofertility movement, a remarkable cross-disciplinary, global collaboration created to address the fertility preservation needs of young cancer patients. During my tour of the UK, I was impressed by the interest among the society and its members to engage colleagues outside the discipline as well as the public in a dialogue about cutting-edge reproductive science. In this invited review, I will describe the work of the Oncofertility Consortium to provide fertility preservation options in the cancer setting and accelerate the acceptance of this critical topic on a global scale. I hope that one day this word and field it created will change the world for women who had been left out of the equation for far too long.
Migración e identidad: familias hispanoamericanas en Porto Alegre (Brasil)
Authors: Castallá Sarriera Jorge , Rangel M. María Piedad , Oliveira Ana Paula , Hermel Julia , Hofstaetter Carolina
Published: July 2015

Este artículo presenta un estudio realizado con 11 familias latinoamericanas inmigrantes en la Gran Porto Alegre1, Brasil. Su objetivo fue dar cuenta de los procesos identitarios a través de las dimensiones personal, cultural, étnica-racial y nacional de estas familias. Para ello, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas que fueron analizadas a través del método de análisis de contenido, a partir de categorías a priori. Se encontró que estas familias viven procesos aculturativos de integración cultural en los que mantienen costumbres de su país de origen y se adaptan al país de acogida. Únicamente una de las familias entrevistadas presenta asimilación cultural, caracterizada por la pérdida de la cultura de origen.

Palabras clave: familia, migración, aculturación, identidad.
Tipos de humor en la publicidad impresa en Colombia
Authors: Cifuentes Carolina María
Published: July 2015

Una de las herramientas frecuentemente utilizadas por los publicistas para persuadir es el humor. De ahí el creciente interés por estudiar su influencia en el procesamiento, actitudes y comportamiento de los individuos. Se realizó una revisión de investigaciones sobre humor publicitario y sus efectos en la persuasión, atención, comprensión, actitudes y memoria, así como estudios sobre humor y factores culturales, de audiencia, medios masivos y tipos de producto. Se presenta una tipología de publicidad humorística impresa colombiana, producto de revisiones bibliográficas y del seguimiento del humor publicitario a través del tiempo en la revista Semana, identificando tres nuevas categorías. Los tipos de humor propuestos son: incongruencia, hostil, sorpresa, juego de palabras, personificación, frases, alusiones, comparación, rimas, caricaturas, obras y exageración.

Palabras clave: publicidad, humor en publicidad, psicología, tipos de humor, actitudes.
Efectos en la adquisición y transferencia de discriminaciones condicionales de segundo orden debidos a variaciones en las relaciones entrenadas
Authors: Hurtado Camilo , Robayo Miguel A.
Published: July 2015

El presente estudio exploró los efectos en la adquisición y transferencia de discriminaciones condicionales debidos a las diferentes combinaciones de relaciones entrenadas (identidad-diferencia-semejanza) en una tarea de igualación a la muestra de segundo orden. De manera complementaria, fueron además dispuestas en la tarea las características que en estudios relacionados habían sido reportadas como facilitadoras de ejecuciones efectivas, a saber: el uso de instrucciones inespecíficas, arreglos de estímulo de tres formas y dos colores y el entrenamiento concurrente de las relaciones. Ocho sujetos fueron distribuidos en cuatro grupos que variaron en la combinación de relaciones a entrenar. Los resultados mostraron que gran parte de los sujetos cumplieron con el criterio de efectividad en entrenamiento y en transferencia extramodal y extrarrelacional, siendo la relación de identidad la relación en la cual se presentaron ejecuciones perfectas, al margen de si ésta había sido entrenada o no. Se discuten los resultados en términos de velocidad de ajuste a las relaciones y de las configuraciones de la tarea que facilitaron mejores desempeños. Se proponen, además, posibles investigaciones que superen las limitaciones metodológicas encontradas en este estudio y que exploren posibles interacciones de las variables manipuladas con otras variables de interés.

Palabras clave: igualación a la muestra de segundo orden, pruebas de transferencia, relaciones de identidad, semejanza y diferencia, factores paramétricos.
La bulimia nerviosa y sus subtipos
Authors: Sierra Puentes Myriam
Published: July 2015

En este artículo se realiza una reseña sobre los trastornos de la alimentación, anorexia y bulimia, la relación que hacen los individuos con este comportamiento y la prevalencia, características y tratamientos más efectivos empleados en la bulimia nerviosa. Además, algunas aproximaciones para establecer subtipos de bulimia diferentes a los del DSM-IV e investigaciones sobre este trastorno del comportamiento alimentario, como la bulimia nerviosa.

Palabras clave: trastornos alimenticios, bulimia, procesos, subtipos.
Hábitos y creencias relacionadas con la salud en un grupo de adolescentes escolarizados de Bogotá
Authors: Contreras Françoise , Esguerra Gustavo , Londoño Ximena
Published: July 2015

El propósito de esta investigación es describir los patrones de creencias acerca de la salud/enfermedad en un grupo de estudiantes de colegios privados de Bogotá y determinar su relación con los comportamientos de esta población. Se aplicó el cuestionario CCHS-98 elaborado por GilRoales a un grupo de 199 estudiantes con edades comprendidas entre los 14 y 18 años, principalmente de estrato socioeconómico tres (medio). De acuerdo con los resultados, la muestra presenta un perfil de riesgo medio y alto en un 66.8%, y una menor experiencia relacionada con la salud en una proporción similar (64.8%). Se encontró relación entre perfiles de riesgo y atribución personal hacia la conducta de fumar, lo cual indica que aunque es una población proclive a adquirir el hábito, el hecho se percibe como dependiente de factores personales, lo que constituye un recurso valioso para la prevención. Los resultados permiten evidenciar los factores de riesgo y protectores presentes en esta población en particular y sus resultados pueden ser útiles para el diseño de programas de prevención primaria en estos jóvenes.

Palabras clave: creencias, hábitos, perfil de riesgo, atribución personal, prevención.
Aspectos psicosociales asociados con la calidad de vida de personas con enfermedades crónicas
Authors: Vinaccia Stefano , Orozco Lina María
Published: July 2015

El objetivo de la siguiente revisión teórica fue estudiar el impacto de las variables psicosociales sobre la calidad de vida de personas con enfermedades crónicas. Se plantea el concepto de salud como un comportamiento asociado al estilo de vida; se define el concepto de calidad de vida y sus principales aspectos multidimensionales; se justifica la importancia de evaluar la calidad de vida en enfermos crónicos. Adicionalmente, se resumen algunos trabajos en los que se ha evaluado el importante papel que juegan diferentes variables psicológicas y sociales en el mantenimiento, recuperación o pérdida de la salud en cinco enfermedades crónicas: infarto, diabetes, cáncer, VIH-SIDA, insuficiencia renal.

Palabras clave: aspectos psicosociales, calidad de vida, enfermedades crónicas.
Perspectiva del acoso laboral en el contexto colombiano
Authors: Giraldo Javier
Published: July 2015

Este artículo presenta el fenómeno del acoso laboral (mobbing) como una situación disfuncional y frecuente en el contexto organizacional que, además, se perpetúa y es alimentada por la escalada simétrica de violencia que vive Colombia. Afrontar el fenómeno es una oportunidad para cumplir con la responsabilidad social, disciplinar y empresarial que favorece, a su vez, contextos de desarrollo éticos. Se propone una atención urgente tanto desde lo legal como de la psicología organizacional en aras de mejorar la calidad de vida laboral.

Palabras clave: psicología organizacional, acoso laboral, violencia, agresión.