bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The fiction of nationalism: Newroz TV representations of Kurdish nationalism
Authors: Mohammadpur Ahmad , Ross Norbert Otto , Mohammadi Nariman
Published: May 2016

Benedict Anderson’s seminal work on imagined communities has opened a multitude of explorations in how mass media construct and represent social identities in relation to nationalism. Depicting and at the same time creating social groups, media representations are permeated by questions of inclusion and exclusion. As a result, it is important to study media representations of social identities as strategic ideologies that debilitate or stabilize, support or condemn a specific identity discourse. In this study, we explore how Kurdish identity has been represented in Newroz TV, one of the most popular satellite TV channels among Iranian Kurds. Findings show that Kurdish nationalism is first defined in opposition to Persian, Arabic (as in Syria and Iraq) and Turkish national identity. However, the resulting images are permeated by partisan ideological divisions among Kurdish political groups.
Vibration-based structural health monitoring of a historic bell-tower using output-only measurements and multivariate statistical analysis
Authors: Ubertini Filippo , Comanducci Gabriele , Cavalagli Nicola
Published: May 2016

This article presents the development and the results of 1 year of implementation of a simple vibration-based structural health monitoring system for preventive conservation and condition-based maintenance of an Italian monumental masonry bell-tower. The system is based on the data recorded by a small number of high-sensitivity accelerometers, on remote automated frequency tracking and on a multivariate statistical analysis criterion for damage detection, combining data regression, principal component analysis, and novelty analysis. The analysis of monitoring data highlights the main characteristics of the response of the tower to wind, swinging bells, and low-return period earthquakes. Despite the low levels of vibration in operational conditions, the system is seen able to track the time evolution of five natural frequencies of the structure and successfully use such information for detecting anomalous deviations from normal conditions. More in general, the presented results show a promise toward a more widespread use of low-cost vibration-based monitoring systems for cultural heritage preservation.
Synergistic Apoptotic Effect of D-Fraction From Grifola frondosa and Vitamin C on Hepatocellular Carcinoma SMMC-7721 Cells
Authors: Zhao Fei , Wang Yong-Feng , Song Lei , Jin Jia-Xin , Zhang Ya-Qing , Gan Hong-Yun , Yang Ke-Hu
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer effect of a combination of D-fraction polysaccharide from Grifola frondosa (DFP) and vitamin C (VC) on hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro. DFP is a bioactive extract from the maitake mushroom. Anticancer activity was demonstrated using various concentrations of DFP alone or in combination with VC against the human hepatocarcinoma SMMC-7721 cell line. To investigate the anticancer mechanism, studies designed to detect cell apoptosis were conducted. Results from the MTT assay indicated that a combination of DFP (0.2 mg/mL) and VC (0.3 mmol/L) led to a 70% reduction in cell viability. Flow cytometry results indicated that DFP/VC treatment induced apoptosis in approximately 65% SMMC-7721 cells. Cell cycle analysis identified cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase following DFP/VC treatment for 48 hours. In addition, cellular morphological changes were observed using transmission electron microscopy. Western blot analysis revealed that the upregulation of BAX, downregulation of Bcl-2, activation of poly-(ADP-ribose)-polymerase (PARP), and the release of cytochrome c were observed in cells treated with the combination of DFP/VC, which showed that the mechanism of anticancer activity in the SMMC-7721 hepatocarcinoma cells involved induction of apoptosis.
In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy Studies of Lavender angustifolia Essential Oil and Its Active Constituents on the Proliferation of Human Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yunqi , Chen Ran , Wang Yun , Qing Chen , Wang Wei , Yang Yixin
Published: May 2016

Lavandula angustifolia is the most widely cultivated Lavandula species. The extraction of its flower and leaves has been used as herbal medicine. In this study, the in vitro antitumor activities were tested on human prostate cancer PC-3 and DU145 cell lines. Flow cytometry technology was applied to study apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest. The PC-3 cell line was used to establish subcutaneous xenograft tumors in nude mice. Paraffin sections from xenograft tumor specimens were used in the TUNEL (terminal deocynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling) assay and an immunohistochemistry assay to detect cell proliferation markers Ki67 and PCNA. Lavender essential oil, linalool, and linalyl acetate showed stronger inhibitory effect on PC-3 cells than on DU145 cells. The apoptotic cell populations observed in PC-3 cells treated with lavender essential oil, linalool, and linalyl acetate were 74.76%, 67.11%, and 56.14%, respectively. The PC-3 cells were mainly arrested in the G2/M phase. In the xenograft model with PC-3 cell transplantation, essential oil and linalool significantly suppressed tumor growth. The immunosignals of Ki67 and PCNA in the essential oil, linalool, and linalyl acetate treatment groups were significantly lower than that of the control group in xenograft tumor sections. The TUNEL assay indicated that each of the 3 phytochemicals significantly induced apoptosis compared to the control group. This study provides novel insight and evidence on the antiproliferative effect of L angustifolia essential oil and its major constituents on human prostate cancer. The antitumor effect was associated with cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction in xenograft tumors.
Reliability of the Handgrip Strength Test in Elderly Subjects With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Villafañe Jorge H. , Valdes Kristin , Buraschi Riccardo , Martinelli Marco , Bissolotti Luciano , Negrini Stefano
Published: May 2016

Background: The handgrip strength test is widely used by clinicians; however, little has been investigated about its reliability when used in subjects with Parkinson disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the test-retest reliability of the handgrip strength test for subjects with PD. Methods: The PD group consisted of 15 patients, and the control group consisted of 15 healthy subjects. Each patient performed 3 pain-free maximal isometric contractions on each hand on 2 occasions, 1 week apart. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were calculated. The 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine the differences between sides and groups. Results: Test-retest reliability of measurements of grip strength was excellent for dominant (ICC = 0.97; P = .001) and non-dominant (ICC = 0.98; P = .001) hand of participant with PD and (ICC = 0.99; P = .001) and (ICC = 0.99; P = .001) respectively, of healthy group. Conclusions: The Jamar hand dynamometer had fair to excellent test-retest reliability to test grip strength in participants with PD.
Outcomes of Nonoperative Treatment of Salter-Harris II Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Larsen Meredith C. , Bohm Kyle C. , Rizkala Amir R. , Ward Christina M.
Published: May 2016

Background: Despite the frequent occurrence of these injuries, we know little about the natural history of Salter-Harris II (SH II) distal radius fractures. We conducted a systematic review of studies examining the radiographic and clinical outcomes of nonoperatively managed SH II distal radius fractures. Methods: Systematic searches of the MEDLINE and Cochrane computerized literature databases and manual searches of bibliographies were performed. We reviewed both descriptive and quantitative data. Results: Seven studies including 434 SH II fractures were reviewed. Two studies reported clinical outcomes based on patient age, but neither study described a statistical correlation between patient age and outcome. Two studies discussed the effect of age on radiographic outcome and reported higher rates of anatomic remodeling in children 10 years or younger. Two studies with long-term (average follow-up greater than 8 years) clinical results reported complication rates of 5%. Long-term follow-up of radiographic outcomes appeared in 4 studies with variable results. Five studies reported the frequency of premature physeal arrest after SH II fractures, with results ranging from 0% to 4.3%. Conclusions: Based on this review, no recommendations can be made as to what defines an acceptable reduction or which fractures would benefit from surgical intervention. Angular deformity seems to correct to an acceptable alignment in patients less than 10 years of age, but these younger patients seem to be at higher risk for symptomatic shortening if a growth arrest occurs. Redisplacement after reduction is fairly common, and other more severe complications such as pain, loss of motion, and nerve injury can occur.
The Effects of Early Antibiotic Administration on Bacterial Culture Growth From Hand Abscesses
Authors: Trionfo Arianna , Thoder Joseph J. , Tosti Rick
Published: May 2016

Background: Traditional management of hand abscesses consists of withholding antibiotics prior to drainage to optimize bacterial culture growth and outcome. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of preoperative empiric antibiotics on the rate of culture growth and rate of adverse events in patients with acute hand abscesses. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected data on 88 consecutive hand abscesses that received empiric antibiotics prior to incision and drainage from 2012 to 2013 at an urban academic institution. We analyzed patient demographics, bacteriology, culture growth results, time to surgery, and frequency of adverse events. Results: The overall rate of positive culture growth was 90% (n = 79) despite running the antibiotics for a mean of 31 hours prior to debridement. Furthermore, 96% of the isolates were given a susceptible antibiotic during that time. The mean number of debridements was 1.5 per patient, but 4 re-operations were necessary for wound complications. No patients required an amputation or were upgraded to intensive care. Conclusions: Preoperative empiric antibiotic administration does not appear to greatly reduce bacterial culture growth from hand abscesses. The adverse events are relatively few for simple abscesses treated with pre-surgical antibiotics and decompression within 24 hours.
Long-Term Outcomes of Primary Repair of Chronic Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries
Authors: Christensen Thomas , Sarfani Shumaila , Shin Alexander Y. , Kakar Sanjeev
Published: May 2016

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate long-term outcomes of ligamentous repair rather than reconstruction for chronic thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries. Methods: Patients at least 15-years status-post repair of a chronic (greater than 6 weeks) UCL tear were contacted for clinical evaluation, radiographs, and postoperative outcome questionnaires, including the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scale, and study-specific questions. Twelve of 21 (57%) living patients were available for long-term, greater than 15-year follow-up (average 24.5 years, range 16.9-35.6). Results: Eighty-eight percent of patients had some degree of osteoarthritis. Increased age at the time of injury and higher DASH scores were correlated with increased grades of the thumb metacarpophalangeal osteoarthritis. Delay to treatment and VAS pain scores had no correlation with radiographic findings. Conclusions: Repair of a chronic UCL injury with available local tissue appears to be a reasonable alternative to ligament reconstruction, resulting in durable long-term outcomes despite the majority of patients progressing to osteoarthritis.
Nonoperative Management of Acute Upper Limb Ischemia
Authors: Wong Victor W. , Major Melanie R. , Higgins James P.
Published: May 2016

Background: Acute upper limb ischemia (AULI) is an uncommon emergency warranting immediate evaluation and treatment. The role of nonsurgical therapies including endovascular techniques, thrombolytics, and anticoagulation remains undefined. The authors systematically reviewed the current literature on the nonsurgical treatment of acute ischemia of the upper extremity. Methods: A PubMed and Embase search was conducted, and articles were screened using predetermined criteria. Data collected included patient demographics, cause of upper limb ischemia, type of nonsurgical treatment used, treatment outcomes, and complications. Patients were divided into 4 treatment groups: catheter embolectomy, catheter-directed thrombolysis, endovascular stenting, and anticoagulation/medical therapy alone. Results: Twenty-three retrospective studies met the search criteria. Of 1326 reported occlusions, 92% (1221) were attributed to thromboembolic disease. The second most common cause was iatrogenic (1.5%). Overall limb salvage rates were excellent with catheter embolectomy (862 of 882 cases, 97.7%) and catheter-directed thrombolysis (110 of 114 cases, 96.5%). Limb salvage rates were also high with anticoagulation/medical therapy (158 of 165 cases, 95.8%), but poor functional outcomes were more often reported. Conclusions: High-quality evidence to guide the nonsurgical treatment of AULI is lacking. Retrospective studies support the utility of catheter-based embolectomy and thrombolysis for distal ischemia. Whether a surgical or nonsurgical approach is taken, anticoagulation therapy remains a mainstay of both treatment and prevention of AULI. Because AULI patients often have underlying cardiac and/or systemic disease, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to minimize complications and prevent future occurrences.
Indispensable, Expendable, or Irrelevant? Effects of Job Insecurity on the Employee Reactions to Perceived Outsourcing in the Hotel Industry
Authors: Zoghbi-Manrique-de-Lara Pablo , Ting-Ding Jyh-Ming , Guerra-Báez Rita
Published: May 2016

This study examines the role of job insecurity as a moderator that may trigger destructive responses by employees to perceived outsourcing of labor services. Although some studies have suggested that outsourcing might not be viewed favorably by the hotel staff, the article first argues that because outsourcing of labor can be a useful strategy for the effective functioning of a hotel, mere perceptions of outsourcing by internal employees should lead them to react favorably to the hotel in the form of citizenship (organizational citizenship behavior–organization [OCB-O]) and decreased deviance (deviant workplace behavior–organization [DWB-O]). We invoke unitarism theory, which emphasizes the shared interests of all the members of an organization. The article then argues that these reactions to outsourcing may become negative when internal employees note the presence of job insecurity, triggering decreased OCB-O and DWB-O. Data were collected from 215 in-house employees working concurrently with outsourced employees at 14 hotels in Gran Canaria (Spain). Structural equation modeling (SEM) results suggest that, contrary to expectations, perceived outsourcing leads employees to significantly increase their DWB-O, but not vary their OCB-O. Unlike OCB-O, these DWB-O reactions to perceived outsourcing became stronger among employees who were high rather than low in job insecurity. The findings suggest that job insecurity plays an expendable, but relevant, role in reactions to outsourcing that harm their success.
Valproate ameliorates nitroglycerin-induced migraine in trigeminal nucleus caudalis in rats through inhibition of NF-кB
Authors: Li Yuanchao , Zhang Qin , Qi Dandan , Zhang Li , Yi Lian , Li Qianqian , Zhang Zhongling
Published: May 2016

Background

As a complex nervous system disease, migraine causes severe healthy and social issues worldwide. Valproate (VPA) is a widely used treatment agent against seizures and bipolar disorder, and its function to alleviate damage due to migraine has also been verified in clinical investigations. However, the mechanism underlying the protective effect of VPA against migraine remains poorly revealed. In the current study, the major purpose was to uncover the mechanism which drove VPA to antagonize migraine.

Methods

Nitroglycerin (NTG) was employed to induce a migraine model in rats and the migraine animals were exposed to treatment of VPA of different doses. Thereafter, the levels of indicators related to oxidative stress were measured and used to evaluate the anti-oxidant potential of VPA. The expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and c-Fos was also quantified with ELISA and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Western blotting and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) were conducted to explore the effect of VPA treatment on NF-кB pathway.

Results

NTG induced the activation of oxidative stress and led to migraine in model animals, but pre-treatment with VPA attenuated the damage due to migraine attack in brain tissues. The level of lipid peroxidation was significantly reduced while the prodcution of anti-oxidant factors was restored. Furthermore, expressions of CGRP and c-Fos, which represented the neuronal activation, were also down-regulated by VPA. The results of western blotting and EMSA demonstrated that the above mentioned effect of VPA acted through the inhibition of NF-кB pathway.

Conclusions

Although controversies on the effect of VPA on NF-кB pathway existed, our study revealed an alternative mechanism of VPA in protecting against migraine, which would promote the development of therapeutic strategies of migraine.
DensityMap: a genome viewer for illustrating the densities of features
Authors: Guizard Sébastien , Piégu Benoît , Bigot Yves
Published: May 2016

Background

Several tools are available for visualizing genomic data. Some, such as Gbrowse and Jbrowse, are very efficient for small genomic regions, but they are not suitable for entire genomes. Others, like Phenogram and CViT, can be used to visualise whole genomes, but are not designed to display very dense genomic features (eg: interspersed repeats). We have therefore developed DensityMap, a lightweight Perl program that can display the densities of several features (genes, ncRNA, cpg, etc.) along chromosomes on the scale of the whole genome. A critical advantage of DensityMap is that it uses GFF annotation files directly to compute the densities of features without needing additional information from the user. The resulting picture is readily configurable, and the colour scales used can be customized for a best fit to the data plotted.

Results

DensityMap runs on Linux architecture with few requirements so that users can easily and quickly visualize the distributions and densities of genomic features for an entire genome. The input is GFF3-formated data representing chromosomes (linkage groups or pseudomolecules) and sets of features which are used to calculate representations in density maps. In practise, DensityMap uses a tilling window to compute the density of one or more features and the number of bases covered by these features along chromosomes. The densities are represented by colour scales that can be customized to highlight critical points. DensityMap can compare the distributions of features; it calculates several chromosomal density maps in a single image, each of which describes a different genomic feature. It can also use the genome nucleotide sequence to compute and plot a density map of the GC content along chromosomes.

Conclusions

DensityMap is a compact, easily-used tool for displaying the distribution and density of all types of genomic features within a genome. It is flexible enough to visualize the densities of several types of features in a single representation. The images produced are readily configurable and their SVG format ensures that they can be edited.
A study of the deterioration of aged parchment marked with laboratory iron gall inks using FTIR-ATR spectroscopy and micro hot table
Authors: Boyatzis Stamatis C. , Velivasaki Georgia , Malea Ekaterini
Published: May 2016

A great number of historic manuscripts, drawings, etc., many of which are stored and/or exhibited in museums, archives and various collections contain iron gall inks (IGIs) as base scripting material. Although the severe deterioration effect of IGIs on paper has been recognized and its chemistry has been explored, little focus has been given on IGIs on parchment. A study was designed to investigate laboratory iron gall inks containing ferrous sulphate and gallic acid (LIG formulation) and with added quantities of gum arabic (LIGG formulation). Specimens marked with the above ink types were artificially aged at 80 °C and 80 % RH for up to 32 days. Micro hot table (MHT) thermal analysis showed a decrease in the shrinkage temperatures in inked areas of aged parchment of up to 15.5 °C. Results of FTIR-ATR spectroscopy showed intense migration of sulphate ions from inked spots to neighbouring ink-free areas at the surface of parchment in both ink formulations, also confirmed by SEM microanalysis results. This effect peaked at short-moderate times of artificial ageing, where calcium sulphate was identified and located at the surface of ink-free areas. Moreover, early signs for gelatinization of collagen also resulted from analysis of Amide I and II infrared bands, where the random coil content increased upon ageing as compared to the helical one.
Design and Construction of Hybrid Concrete-Masonry Structures Informed by Cyclic Tests
Authors: Redmond Laura , Kahn Lawrence , DesRoches Reginald
Published: May 2016

Reinforced concrete buildings with masonry infill are vulnerable in earthquakes primarily because the masonry walls often fail due to out-of-plane forces and can trigger soft-story collapses. In order to prevent these failures, many engineers in the Caribbean have partially reinforced the infill walls and connected them to the reinforced concrete frame. This forms a hybrid concrete-masonry structure. Hybrid concrete-masonry structures have the potential to improve the seismic performance of many structures across the globe, as they are an easy adaptation from traditional unreinforced masonry infill. However, there is little codified guidance for this type of structure, and the influence of the masonry infill and dowel connections on the in-plane behavior of the frame is often neglected. This paper summarizes the current design and construction practices for hybrid concrete-masonry structures and assesses their seismic performance via cyclic tests on full scale test specimens. Based on the results of the experiment, a method is proposed to account for the dowel connections and the partially reinforced infill when designing hybrid concrete-masonry structures in earthquake zones.
RNA polymerase III component Rpc9 regulates hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell maintenance in zebrafish
Authors: Wei Yonglong , Xu Jin , Zhang Wenqing , Wen Zilong , Liu Feng
Published: May 2016

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are capable of self-renewal and replenishing all lineages of blood cells throughout the lifetime and thus critical for tissue homeostasis. However, the mechanism regulating HSPC development is still incompletely understood. Here, we isolate a zebrafish mutant with defective T lymphopoiesis and positional cloning identifies that Rpc9, a component of DNA-directed RNA polymerase III (Pol III) complex, is responsible for the mutant phenotype. Further analysis shows that rpc9-deficiency leads to the impairment of HSPCs and their derivatives in zebrafish embryos. Excessive apoptosis is observed in the caudal hematopoietic tissue (CHT, the equivalent of fetal liver in mammals) of rpc9−/− embryos and the hematopoietic defects in rpc9−/− embryos can be fully rescued by suppression of p53. Thus, our work illustrate that Rpc9, a component of Pol III, plays an important tissue-specific role in HSPC maintenance during zebrafish embryogenesis and that it might be conserved across vertebrates including mammals.
NML-mediated rRNA base methylation links ribosomal subunit formation to cell proliferation in a p53-dependent manner
Authors: Waku Tsuyoshi , Nakajima Yuka , Yokoyama Wataru , Nomura Naoto , Kako Koichiro , Kobayashi Akira , Shimizu Toshiyuki , Fukamizu Akiyoshi
Published: May 2016

Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) act as scaffolds and ribozymes in ribosomes, and these functions are modulated by post-transcriptional modifications. However, the biological role of base methylation, a well-conserved modification of rRNA, is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that a nucleolar factor, nucleomethylin (NML; also known as RRP8), is required for the N1-methyladenosine (m1A) modification in 28S rRNAs of human and mouse cells. NML also contributes to 60S ribosomal subunit formation. Intriguingly, NML depletion increases 60S ribosomal protein L11 (RPL11) levels in the ribosome-free fraction and protein levels of p53 through an RPL11–MDM2 complex, which activates the p53 pathway. Consequently, the growth of NML-depleted cells is suppressed in a p53-dependent manner. These observations reveal a new biological function of rRNA base methylation, which links ribosomal subunit formation to p53-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation in mammalian cells.
Schools need better support to tackle mental health
Authors: Feuchtwang Anna
Published: May 2016

There is a willingness in schools to tackle mental health issues, but research reveals a frustration with support services. Anna Feuchtwang explains
NICE guideline on type 1 diabetes
Authors: Morris David
Published: May 2016

Key points about how this guidance applies to primary care professionals are highlighted by David Morris
Sake, sex and gore: The Japanese zombie film and cult cinema
Authors: Murphy Kayleigh
Published: May 2016

Zombie film is a minor, yet growing, sub-genre within Japan’s contemporary horror genre. This article seeks to situate this sub-genre within the context of cult cinema and examine the aesthetic qualities prominent within key Japanese zombie films. Using Mathijs and Mendik’s anatomical categories in conjunction with an exploration of the international marketing and reception of the sub-genre, this article discusses Helldriver (Nishimura, 2011), Zombie Ass: Toilet of the Dead (Iguchi, 2011) and Rape Zombie: Lust of the Dead (Tomomatsu, 2012) as key examples of the sub-genre’s cult designation.
Syndromes of indirect communication: A functional analysis of the static long-take technique in Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s feature films
Authors: Purnama Ari
Published: May 2016

This article discusses the functional potentialities of the static long-take application, as an alternative filming method to the coverage approach, in the film-making style of Apichatpong Weerasethakul. By employing stylistic analysis on Sang Sattawat/Syndromes and a Century (2006) and Sud Sanaeha/Blissfully Yours (2002), the study argues that the patterning of the static long-take technique in handling lengthy conversation scenes sacrifice narrational clarity to foreground the expressivity and nuances of interpersonal interaction. An important facet of this expressivity is the deliberation of indirect communication, that is ‘the means in which one meaning is conveyed indirectly through utterances or non-verbal behaviors in order to achieve certain goal, or the means in which one’s intent is revealed in a roundabout way’. But acting more than a creative exercise in the poeticization of human communicative behaviour, this foregrounding of indirect communication opens up a wider socio-historical framework that Apichatpong’s film-making taps into.
The Story of Volund: A translation from the oral to the visual
Authors: Ayiter Elif , Dahlsveen Mimesis Heidi
Published: May 2016

The Story of Volund from Norse poetry was the foundation of a large-scaled installation in the spring of 2014 in the online virtual world of Second Life®. The installation was created in collaboration between a storyteller and a visual designer, who are also the authors of this text. This article will discuss how the principles of oral storytelling, agency and presence were woven together to bring about a ‘story-world’ in which visitors were able to become both a protagonist and a storyteller through various means and devices that were put at their disposal. This process – both the theoretical considerations that played a role during the formulation of the project as well as the strategies employed during its building – will be examined through a literature review encompassing oral storytelling and its performative aspects, the extension of these into virtual environments, Joseph Campbell’s Hero with a Thousand Faces (1973), and a discussion of the myth of Volund himself.
In control or in their shoes? How character attachment differentially influences video game enjoyment and appreciation
Authors: Bowman Nicholas David , Oliver Mary Beth , Rogers Ryan , Sherrick Brett , Woolley Julia , Chung Mun-Young
Published: May 2016

Emerging perspectives in media psychology have begun to focus on enjoyment and appreciation as unique reactions to entertaining media fare. Past work has found that game elements such as gameplay mechanics and game narrative are significantly associated with both feelings – with play mechanics more aligned with enjoyment and narrative more aligned with appreciation. The current study looks to extend this work by establishing associations between elements of character attachment (CA) and both entertainment outcomes. Data from an online survey of gamers randomly assigned to consider enjoyable or meaningful gaming experiences found that an increased recollection of control over one’s in-game avatar was positively associated with enjoyment (not appreciation), and that an increased identification with and sense of responsibility for one’s character were both independently and positively associated with appreciation (not enjoyment).
Phytochemical screening, mineral composition and in vitro antioxidant activities of Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves
Authors: Usunobun Usunomena , V. Chinwe Igwe
Published: May 2016

Background: Pterocarpus mildbraedii is used in some Nigerian tribes in the treatment of headaches, pains, fever, convulsions, and respiratory disorders. This study was carried out to ascertain the phytochemicals, minerals and in vitro antioxidant activities of Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves.Methods: Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out using standard procedures while Mineral analysis was carried out using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Also, antioxidant activities of Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves were evaluated using reducing power ability and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assays.Results: Result on phytochemicals reveals the presence of flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins. Mineral analysis showed calcium (1283mg/kg) to be higher in concentration and manganese (4mg/kg) least in concentration (4mg/kg). Other analysed minerals include sodium (603mg/kg), potassium (1048mg/kg), magnesium (778mg/kg), zinc (25mg/kg), iron (146mg/kg), phosphates (1002mg/kg), etc. In vitro antioxidant activity results show that Pterocarpus mildbraedii possess potent but dose-dependent reducing power ability and free radical scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals.Conclusion: The presence of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids and tannins in Pterocarpus mildbraedii provides some biochemical basis for the ethno pharmacological uses of the plant. Also the information provided in this research study may help to spread the ethno botanical uses of Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves to other parts of the World. The findings clearly demonstrate that Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves have promising antioxidant property and needs further evaluation to exploit its therapeutic potential.
Blast Valve Design and Related Studies : A Review
Authors: Sharma P. K. , Patel B. P. , Lal Harbans
Published: May 2016

The protective structures required for performing critical operations are vulnerable to the blast and shock loads of advanced weapons. A blast valve is an important component of such structures for ventilation during normal conditions and for protection from blast/ shock during explosion. In this paper, various aspects of blast valve design and related studies are briefly reviewed. The concept and effects of blast wave, blast impact, numerical modelling and deformation of circular plate (one of the critical components of blast valve) have been discussed. The merits and demerits of sensing mechanisms viz. remote and direct sensing are discussed. The leakage of blast pressure during finite closing period of the valve (one of the critical problems) and the shock tube as a major experimental facility for testing of blast valves are briefly discussed.
Selected Aspects of Computer Modeling of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Szczecina M. , Winnicki A.
Published: May 2016

The paper presents some important aspects concerning material constants of concrete and stages of modeling of reinforced concrete structures. The problems taken into account are: a choice of proper material model for concrete, establishing of compressive and tensile behavior of concrete and establishing the values of dilation angle, fracture energy and relaxation time for concrete. Proper values of material constants are fixed in simple compression and tension tests. The effectiveness and correctness of applied model is checked on the example of reinforced concrete frame corners under opening bending moment. Calculations are performed in Abaqus software using Concrete Damaged Plasticity model of concrete.
Analysis of the Correlation between the Static and Fatigue Test Results of the Interlayer Bondings of Asphalt Layers
Authors: Szydło A. , Malicki K.
Published: May 2016

The bonding state of the asphalt layers in a road pavement structure significantly affects its fatigue life. These bondings, therefore, require detailed tests and optimization. In this paper, the analyses of the correlation between the results of laboratory static tests and the results of fatigue tests of asphalt mixture interlayer bondings were performed. The existence of the relationships between selected parameters was confirmed. In the future, the results of these analyses may allow for assessment of interlayer bondings’ fatigue life based on the results of quick and relatively easy static tests.
An Analysis of the Decisive Criteria in Formwork Selection Problem
Authors: Krawczyńska-Piechna A.
Published: May 2016

The present paper concerns a problem of decisive criteria and their order in formwork selection problem. As the factors affecting the choice of exact form work system have been often discussed in literature, their importance has not been distinctly formulated yet, what hampers aiding formwork selection with MCDA methods that require criteria weights (eg.: SAW, TOPSIS etc.). Therefore, author ran a survey - the decisive criteria were recognized and verified within polls send to various contractors. An analysis of survey results including criteria ordering is a subject of the present elaboration.
Globalization and Democracy: A Disaggregated Analysis by Income Group
Authors: Kollias Christos , Paleologou Suzanna Maria
Published: May 2016

The nexus between globalization and democracy has generated fervent discussions in the relevant literature. This paper addresses the globalization-democracy question using the KOF index that allows for the multidimensionality of this process and hence different channels through which globalization can affect democracy. Furthermore, any effect exerted by globalization on democracy may differ depending on a country’s attributes. To this effect, we allow for possible differences that depend upon the level of development, the sample of 110 countries used here was split into four different income groups: high, upper-middle, lower-middle and low income. On balance, the results yielded using the Polity 2 index of democracy point to a positive impact of globalization on democracy but this was not a universal finding across all income groups and differences were unearthed by the estimated panel models covering the period 1970–2011.
Sequential extraction procedure for fractionation of Pb and Cr in artificial and contaminated soil
Authors: Qayyum Sadia , Khan Ibrar , Zhao Yangguo , Maqbool Farhana , Peng Changsheng
Published: May 2016

Metal contamination of soil is due to mining, manufacturing and use of synthetic products (e.g. pesticides, paints, batteries, industrial waste and industrial or domestic sludge) which is a serious environmental problem. Hence, determining chemical forms of metals in soils is important to evaluate their mobility or bioavailability. Both artificial and contaminated soils were sequentially extracted to fractionate metals into the water soluble fraction (WSF), exchangeable fraction (EF), bound to carbonate fraction, bound to metal oxide fraction, organically bound fraction (OBF) and residual fraction (RF). In the case of contaminated soil, Pb and Cr are found to be associated with the carbonate fraction while in artificial soil, Pb bound to WSF and Cr with the Fe/Mn fraction. Chemical properties such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and textural classification of concerned soils were also analyzed. Percentage recovery was calculated to check the reliability of processes both in Pb and Cr, and it was found to be more in Cr (66% and 84%) in both artificial and contaminated soil than Pb (5% and 34%) in both soils. Analyses of extracts were carried out by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Results were interpreted in terms of environmental mobility or bioavailability of metals.
MRI-Based Visualization of the Relaxation Times of Early Somatic Embryos
Authors: Mikulka J. , Hutova E. , Korinek R. , Marcon P. , Dokoupil Z. , Gescheidtova E. , Havel L. , Bartusek K.
Published: May 2016

The large set of scientific activities supported by MRI includes, among others, the research of water and mineral compounds transported within a plant, the investigation of cellular processes, and the examination of the growth and development of plants. MRI is a method of major importance for the measurement of early somatic embryos (ESE) during cultivation, and in this respect it offers several significant benefits discussed within this paper. We present the following procedures: non-destructive measurement of the volume and content of water during cultivation; exact three-dimensional differentiation between the ESEs and the medium; investigation of the influence of ions and the change of relaxation times during cultivation; and multiparametric segmentation of MR images to differentiate between embryogenic and non-embryogenic cells. An interesting technique consists in two-parameter imaging of the relaxation times of the callus; this method is characterized by tissue changes during cultivation at a microscopic level, which can be monitored non-destructively.
The Effects of Fluid Viscosity on the Orifice Rotameter
Authors: Jiang Wei , Zhang Tao , Xu Ying , Wang Huaxiang , Guo Xiaoli , Lei Jing , Sang Peiyong
Published: May 2016

Due to the viscous shear stress, there is an obvious error between the real flow rate and the rotameter indication for measuring viscous fluid medium. At 50 cSt the maximum error of DN40 orifice rotameter is up to 35 %. The fluid viscosity effects on the orifice rotameter are investigated using experimental and theoretical models. Wall jet and concentric annulus laminar theories were adapted to study the influence of viscosity. And a new formula is obtained for calculating the flow rate of viscous fluid. The experimental data were analyzed and compared with the calculated results. At high viscosity the maximum theoretical results error is 6.3 %, indicating that the proposed measurement model has very good applicability.
Crystal structure of potassium (E)-5-oxo-4-((5-oxo-1H-1,2,4-triazol-4(5H)-yl)diazenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,2,4-triazol-1-ide – (E)-4,4-diazene-1,2-diylbis(2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one) – methanol (1/1/1), C9H11N16KO5
Authors: Zhao Benbo , Ge Zhen , Luo Yunjun
Published: May 2016

C9H11N16K1O5, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 7.983(2) Å, b = 9.731(2) Å, c = 12.300(4) Å, α = 84.689(9)°, β = 86.779(9)°, γ = 69.450(7)°, V = 890.5(4) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0396, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0878, T = 153 K.
Crystal structure of 2-ethyl-1-tert-butyl-2-((4-fluorophenyl)(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)methyl)-3-oxo-pyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate, C24H33FN2O7
Authors: Makhathini Sifiso S. , Samipillai Marivel , Govender Thavendran , Naicker Tricia
Published: May 2016

C24H33FN2O7, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 11.0118(7) Å, b = 11.5684(7) Å, c = 11.7276(7) Å, α = 112.294(1)°, β = 100.557(1)°, γ = 105.775(2)°, V = 1259.56(13) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0411, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1050, T = 173 K.
Crystal structure of 2-(4-Bromophenyl)-5-ethyl-1,3-dioxane-5-carboxylic acid, C13H15BrO4
Authors: Jia Guo-Kai , Yuan Lin , Zhang Min , Yuan Xian-You
Published: May 2016

C13H15BrO4, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 12.872(4) Å, b = 8.311(2) Å, c = 24.598(7) Å, β = 92.556(3)°, V = 2629.0(13) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt
(F) = 0.0357, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0932, T = 296(2) K.
The cartographic methods of presentation and GIS tool in analysis of historical data on the example of Great War cemeteries in southern Poland
Authors: Lisek Katarzyna , Nieścioruk Kamil
Published: May 2016

The paper deals with the application of Geographic Information System software in cartographic data presentation in the field of historical data mining. Lists of soldiers buried in the I world war cemeteries near Jasło were used. The prepared database helped to create series of maps, mainly diagram maps, that serve as a useful statistical and demographic characteristics of the phenomena. The authors stressed advantages of the solution used and the usefulness of historical data in spatial database preparation process. The shortages of the GIS software itself were also pointed out, especially as long as cartographic editing and methodology principles are concerned.
Role of Air Cargo and Road Feeder Services for Regional Airports – Case Studies from the Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Beifert Anatoli
Published: May 2016

Although airports play an important role the global and European economies, according to the new guidelines of the EU Commission on the new state aid rules for a competitive aviation industry (EC, 2014), it will be more difficult for unprofitable airports, to get financial public subsidies in the future. The Commission noted that the majority of regional airports experience severe problems to cover their operative costs, resulting from among other things from overlapping of airports’ catchment areas. The main objective of the above mentioned measures is not to close the regional airports, but to motivate them to operate on cost efficient, profitable and more flexible basis, stating however that and that the most inefficient airports will be still closed. In order face upcoming challenges, the regional airports shall reconsider their future development plans. Traditionally, the airports including small and regional airports focus on the passenger traffic and thus, the possible benefits and opportunities of the air cargo market are totally underestimated or even completely ignored. Most regional airports in the Baltic Sea region act totally isolated and do not have a clear picture of the current situation on the international air cargo market today, its future perspectives and sustainable development plans remain basically hidden. There are some examples when trying to meet the market demand, the regional airports have made huge, but unfortunately unjustified investments, e.g. improving airport infrastructure, runways, etc. However, the airports’ infrastructural investments alone cannot fulfil the expected “remedy” role for the airports’ sustainability. This paper aims at investigating the positioning and the role of the regional airports in the current hub-and-spoke network, focusing on the relevance and potential of the air cargo sector for the regional airports development. The optional freight value proposition for the development of the regional airports and their possible participation in the air cargo market as a supplement instrument to generate additional revenue also by means of so-called “air trucking” services will be presented and discussed.
Logistics Controlling as a Tool of Performance Improvement at the Russian Enterprises
Authors: Sergeyev Victor
Published: May 2016

The article discovers the methodical approaches to the study of logistic activities controlling at the Russian enterprises. There are defined the phases of the controlling research management and described the initial sample of the enterprises surveyed. The methodology of the logistics controlling research is based on the system analysis, the methods of economic cybernetics, operations research, mathematical statistics, the theory of optimal decision-making, and the management theory.

The article presents the main results of the research specifying the state of logistics controlling at the Russian enterprises. The study has conducted a systematic analysis of the status and trends of logistics controlling at the domestic enterprises specialized in the industry, trade and services fields. Top managers of logistics departments in the Russian enterprises were interviewed about the logistics controlling. The survey was undertaken in the form of written and online surveys. The results are documented and processed by a special technique.
Oil Pollution in the Southeastern Baltic Sea by Satellite Remote Sensing Data in 2004-2015
Authors: Bulycheva Elena V. , Krek Aleksander V. , Kostianoy Andrey G. , Semenov Aleksander V. , Joksimovich Aleksandar
Published: May 2016

The results of satellite monitoring of oil pollution in the Southeastern Baltic Sea in 2004-2015 are discussed in the paper. Interannual and seasonal variability of oil pollution is investigated. A steady decrease in total oil pollution was observed from 2004 to 2011. After a sharp increase of oil pollution in 2012, oil pollution level has established at 0.39 PI Index. Maximum of oil spills is observed in the spring and summer, which is probably due to favorable weather conditions for the detection of oil spills on radar images. According to the analysis of the shapes of the detected oil spills, it was concluded that the main polluters of the sea surface are vessels. No oil spills originated from the oil platform D-6 was detected in 2004-2015. Results of numerical experiments with the Seatrack Web oil spill model show that in the case of potential discharge of oil from the D-6 platform, oil will not reach the Curonian Spit beaches during 48 h after an accident.
Why Engaging in the Practices of Science Is Not Enough to Achieve Scientific Literacy
Authors: Johnson Wendy R.
Published: May 2016

The National Research Council's Framework for K–12 Science Education and the resulting Next Generation Science Standards call for engaging students in the practices of science to develop scientific literacy. While these documents make the connections between scientific knowledge and practices explicit, very little attention is given to the shared values and commitments of the scientific community that underlie these practices and give them meaning. I argue that effective science education should engage students in the practices of science while also reflecting on the values, commitments, and habits of mind that have led to the practices of modern science and that give them meaning. The concept of methodological naturalism demonstrates the connection between the values and commitments of the culture of science and its practices and provides a useful lens for understanding the benefits and limitations of scientific knowledge.