bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between habituation of visual-evoked potentials and magnetophosphene thresholds in migraine: A case-control study
Authors: Ambrosini Anna , Iezzi Ennio , Perrotta Armando , Kisialiou Aliaksei , Nardella Andrea , Berardelli Alfredo , Pierelli Francesco , Schoenen Jean
Published: June 2015

Introduction

In migraine most studies report an interictal deficit of habituation of visual-evoked potentials (VEP-hab) and reduced thresholds for phosphene induction (PT) by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). We searched for a possible correlation between VEP-hab and PT in migraine patients and healthy controls to test whether they reflect the same pathophysiological abnormality.

Methods

We assessed PT and VEP-hab measured as the percentage change of N1/P1 amplitude over six blocks of 100 responses in 15 healthy volunteers (HV) and in 13 episodic migraineurs without aura (MO) between attacks. Results were compared using Mann-Whitney U test. Interrelationships were examined using Spearman's correlation.

Results

In MO patients VEP-hab was reduced compared to HV ( p = 0.001), while PT were not significantly different between HV and MO. There was no correlation between PT and VEP-hab in either group of participants.

Conclusions

We confirm that in interictal migraine VEP habituation is deficient, but magnetophosphene threshold normal. VEP-hab and PT were not correlated with each other in healthy controls or in migraineurs. This finding suggests that they index different facets of cortical excitability in migraine, i.e. a punctual normal measure of the cortical activation threshold for PT and a dynamic response pattern to repeated stimuli for VEP habituation.
Psychometric Characteristics of the Korean Version of the Satisfaction With Life Scale Adapted for Children
Authors: Lim Young-Jin
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability, factorial structure validity, and convergent validity of a Korean version of the Satisfaction With Life Scale adapted for children (K-SWLS-C). Participants consisted of 653 elementary school students (48% were male). The internal consistency of the K-SWLS-C was .93, and its test–retest reliability was .62 for inter-test period of 4 weeks. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the K-SWLS-C had the unifactorial structure reported in previous studies. The K-SWLS-C was found to be significantly associated with domains of student life satisfaction. The findings of the present study suggest that the K-SWLS-C is a well-developed instrument for measuring life satisfaction among Korean children.
Correspondence Between Self-Report Measures and Clinician Assessments of Psychopathology in Female Intimate Partner Violence Survivors
Authors: Cody Meghan W. , Jones Judiann M. , Woodward Matthew J. , Simmons Catherine A. , Gayle Beck J.
Published: June 2015

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has potentially severe and long-lasting mental health consequences for survivors, including elevated symptoms and diagnoses of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The current study examined the relationship between three self-report measures of psychological distress and ratings obtained from the corresponding clinician-administered measures in women seeking assessment for mental health problems following IPV ( N = 185). PTSD symptoms were assessed using the self-report Impact of Event Scale–Revised (IES-R) and the interview-based Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS). Depression symptoms were assessed using the self-report Beck Depression Inventory–II (BDI-II) and the depressive disorders sections from the clinician-administered Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule–IV (ADIS-IV). Anxiety symptoms were assessed using the self-report Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the clinician-administered GAD section from the ADIS-IV. Results indicated that psychological distress was prevalent in the sample, with 27% receiving a PTSD diagnosis, 40% diagnosed with a depressive disorder, and 55% meeting criteria for GAD. Although each self-report measure was significantly and positively correlated with its corresponding clinician-administered measure, rates of diagnostic concordance were mixed. The BDI-II showed a high degree of agreement with the ADIS-IV depression section, but the IES-R and the CAPS were discordant at classifying PTSD. The BAI had acceptable sensitivity but poor specificity in relation to the ADIS-IV GAD section. These findings suggest that multiple assessment modalities should be considered when rating symptoms and estimating the prevalence of diagnoses among survivors of IPV.
Numerical and experimental investigations of the dynamics of a variable mass pendulum
Authors: Bartkowiak Tomasz , Grabski Jakub Krzysztof , Kołodziej Jan Adam
Published: June 2015

In this paper, the numerical and experimental results for the dynamics of pendulum with variable mass were described. Mathematical model was developed taking into account the loss of mass, reactive force, air resistance, and friction. A corresponding test rig was designed and built in order to validate the numerical results. The purpose of the paper is to show that in case of the variable mass systems the second Newton’s law cannot be directly applied in the traditional form. The simple experiment was designed to support the thesis that the modification of Newton’s second law is necessary.
Impact damper for axial vibration of a continuous system
Authors: Sanap SB , Bhave SY , Awasare PJ
Published: June 2015

Application of Impact damper for reduction of vibration amplitude through momentum transfer is now well established. However, no literature is available for the effect of an impact damper on axial vibration of a rod as a continuous system. The equation for axial vibratory displacement of the rod, fixed at one end and a lumped mass at the other end, is derived by considering steady state vibrations having a period equal to that of the forcing function at the free end. Structural damping is assumed to be modal with a damping ratio of 0.005. Taking this periodicity into account, the repetitive impact force is resolved in the sinusoidal functions through Fourier series analysis. The forcing function thus will have components with the frequency of the external force and the multiple harmonic forces resulting from impacts. Since an infinite series is involved, the solution is obtained for a truncated series using MATLAB. It is observed that the damper is most effective when the Impact distribution parameter is equal to 0.5. The results of the numerical analysis are supported by experiments and are found to be in good agreement with the theoretical results. The reduction of vibration amplitude is observed to be dependent on the clearance (travel of impacting mass), mass ratio of the impacting mass to the main system, frequency of excitation, and the location of the stop in addition to the impact distribution.
The influence of science popularizers on the public’s view of religion and science: An experimental assessment
Authors: Scheitle Christopher P. , Ecklund Elaine Howard
Published: June 2015

Research suggests that public figures can play an influential role in forming public opinion; yet, little research has experimentally tested the efficacy of public figures on the cognitive formation of boundaries. Using an experiment embedded within a nationally representative survey, we examine how two science popularizers, Francis Collins and Richard Dawkins, influence perceptions regarding the boundaries between religion and science. We find that learning of Dawkins does not influence people’s perceptions of the religion–science relationship, while learning of Collins shifts respondents toward a collaborative view of religion and science. Findings suggest that figures with unexpected views might be more effective in changing conceptual boundaries.
Nonmarket Work Among Working-Age Disability Beneficiaries
Authors: Shandra Carrie L.
Published: June 2015

More than US$100 billion is spent annually by the U.S. federal government in income maintenance in the form of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to workers with disabilities—the majority of whom are not in the labor market. Despite this large sum, however, little is known about the extent to which disability beneficiaries contribute to the economy through nonmarket work. This study uses data from the 2003–2012 American Time Use Survey, matched to the Current Population Survey, to provide the first nationally representative analysis of nonmarket time use among SSDI beneficiaries. A replacement wage approach is then used to assign monetary value to beneficiaries’ nonmarket time and to evaluate the relative contribution of that monetary value to gross domestic product (GDP) and average aggregate SSDI payments. Results indicate that beneficiaries, on average, report nearly 4.5 hr per day of nonmarket production. These inputs would comprise between .69% and .98% of total GDP if they were compensated in the market, depending on methodology and year of observation. Furthermore, the value of beneficiaries’ inputs exceeds the cost of average aggregate payments to beneficiaries across all years. Thus, SSDI beneficiaries report substantial production, albeit not in the market.
Indentation response of sandwich panels with positive gradient metallic cellular core
Authors: Xiao Dengbao , Mu Lin , Zhao Guiping
Published: June 2015

This paper deals with the plastic indentation of sandwich panels with positive gradient metallic cellular core under a spherical indenter. The gradient metallic cellular material has an increasing plateau stress. Under quasi-static compression, the crushing stress of gradient metallic cellular material cannot be assumed as a constant like that of homogeneous metallic cellular material before densification. To predict the crushing stress of the gradient metallic cellular material, a novel predicting formula associated with densification strain is presented. And then a gradient analytical model for the sandwich panel with positive gradient metallic cellular core under the spherical indenter is developed based on the analytical model for sandwich panel with homogeneous core. Finite element simulation is carried out in order to verify the analytical results. The influence of positive gradient metallic cellular core on the indentation force of the sandwich panel is further analyzed.
A new higher-order shear deformation theory for static, buckling and free vibration analysis of functionally graded sandwich beams
Authors: Nguyen Trung-Kien , Nguyen Ba-Duy
Published: June 2015

This paper presents a new higher-order shear deformation theory for static, buckling and free vibration analysis of functionally graded sandwich beams. In this theory, the axial displacement accounts for a third-order and inverse trigonometric distribution, and the transverse shear stress satisfies the traction-free boundary conditions on the top and bottom surfaces of the beams. Governing equations of motion are derived from the Hamilton’s principle for sandwich beams with homogeneous hardcore and softcore. Navier-type solution for simply-supported beams is developed to solve the problem. Numerical results are obtained to investigate effects of the power-law index, span-to-height ratio and thickness ratio of layers on the displacements, stresses, critical buckling load and frequencies.
Deaf and hard-of-hearing musicians: Crafting a narrative strategy
Authors: Churchill Warren N.
Published: June 2015

The topic of deafness has been studied in the field of music education; however, this work largely reflects hearing world perspectives. The author of this study, a music educator who identifies as hard-of-hearing, draws upon Deaf cultural discourses as a way of bringing a more nuanced understanding to this topic. The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, the researcher works to develop a cohesive poststructural narrative approach that makes use of Foucault’s theorizing about power. Then, the researcher applies this “crafted” narrative strategy to examine the public music making of a particular Deaf Finnish musician.
Addressing the Health of Formerly Imprisoned Persons in a Distressed Neighborhood Through a Community Collaborative Board
Authors: Smith Vivian C. , Jemal Alexis
Published: June 2015

This article provides a case study evaluating the structure and dynamic process of a Community Collaborative Board that had the goal of creating an evidence-based substance abuse/health intervention for previously incarcerated individuals. Meeting agendas, attendance, minutes, video recording of meetings, and in-depth interviews with 13 Community Collaborative Board members were used to conduct an independent process evaluation. Open coding identified quotes exemplifying specific themes and/or patterns across answers related to the desired domain. Several themes were identified regarding membership engagement, retention, and power distribution. Results showed member retention was due to strong personal commitment to the targeted problem. Analysis also revealed an unequal power distribution based on participants’ background. Nevertheless, the development of an innovative, community-based health intervention manual was accomplished. Aspects of the process, such as incentives, subcommittees, and trainings, enhanced the Board’s ability to integrate the community and scientific knowledge to accomplish its research agenda. Community-based participatory research was a useful framework in enhancing quality and efficiency in the development of an innovative, substance abuse/health intervention manual for distressed communities. Overall, this article sheds light on a process that illustrates the integration of community-based and scientific knowledge to address the health, economic, and societal marginalization of low-income, minority communities.
Strategies to Increase After-School Program Staff Skills to Promote Healthy Eating and Physical Activity
Authors: Weaver R. Glenn , Beets Michael W. , Beighle Aaron , Webster Collin , Huberty Jennifer , Moore Justin B.
Published: June 2015

Standards targeting children’s healthy eating and physical activity (HEPA) in after-school programs call for staff to display or refrain from HEPA-promoting or -discouraging behaviors that are linked to children’s HEPA. This study evaluated strategies to align staff behaviors with HEPA Standards. Staff at four after-school programs serving approximately 500 children participated in professional development training from January 2012 to May 2013. Site leaders also attended workshops and received technical support during the same time frame. Changes in staff behaviors were evaluated using the System for Observing Staff Promotion of Activity and Nutrition in a pre- (fall 2011) multiple-post (spring 2012, fall 2012, and spring 2013), no–control group study design. A total of 8,949 scans were completed across the four measurement periods. Of the 19 behaviors measured, 14 changed in the appropriate direction. For example, staff engaging in physical activity with children increased from 27% to 40% of scans and staff eating unhealthy foods decreased from 56% to 14% of days. Ongoing training and technical assistance can have a measureable impact on staff behaviors linked to child-level HEPA outcomes. Future research should explore the feasibility of disseminating ongoing trainings to after-school program staff on a large scale.
Endovascular treatment of cerebral venous thrombosis: Contemporary multicenter experience
Authors: Mokin Maxim , Lopes Demetrius K , Binning Mandy J , Veznedaroglu Erol , Liebman Kenneth M , Arthur Adam S , Doss Vinodh T , Levy Elad I , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: June 2015

Endovascular therapy of cerebral venous thrombosis using modern approaches to intracranial recanalization, such as stent retrievers and aspiration thrombectomy, is not well described. We performed a retrospective review of data for consecutive patients with venous sinus thrombosis who underwent endovascular treatment between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2013 at participating institutions. We identified a total of 13 patients with a diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis. The most frequently utilized type of endovascular intervention was the Penumbra aspiration system (Penumbra Inc., Alameda, California, USA) (nine cases), followed by local infusion of tissue plasminogen activator (bolus and/or drip in six cases) and stent retrievers (Solitaire FR (Covidien, Irvine, California, USA) in three cases and Trevo (Stryker, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA) in one case). Overall, multimodality treatment (two or more different types of devices or approaches) was performed in 62% of cases. Follow-up data were available for 11 patients; of those, five had a favorable clinical outcome (defined as modified Rankin Scale score of 0–2) and three patients died. Various endovascular approaches are utilized in current clinical practice. A multimodal approach to endovascular therapy for the treatment of cerebral venous thrombosis resulted in partial or complete restoration of flow in all cases, yet the mortality rate of 27% indicates the need for improvement in recanalization strategies for this disorder.
Breakup, instabilities, and dynamics of high-speed droplet under transcritical conditions
Authors: Gao Yanfei , Yang Shichun , Deng Cheng , Xu Bin , Ji Fenzhu , He Yongling
Published: June 2015

A droplet breakup model is developed for a single droplet introduced into transcritical and strong convective environments. The numerical model takes into account variable thermophysical properties, gas solubility in the liquid phase, and vapor–liquid interfacial thermodynamics. The influences of ambient conditions on droplet breakup characteristics are investigated. The results indicate that (1) the drag acceleration decreases slowly at first and then increases drastically with the initial droplet temperature increasing, but always increases at a constant rate with ambient pressure; (2) the pressure and the drop temperature have similar effects on the Kelvin–Helmholtz and Rayleigh–Taylor wave growth at high pressures (reduced pressure higher than 1.2) and high temperatures (reduced temperature higher than 0.7), but the impact of pressure on the wave growth is relatively stronger than that of droplet temperature at relatively low pressures (reduced pressure lower than 0.8) and low temperatures (reduced temperature lower than 0.63); (3) the temperature significantly affects the surface instability growth at high drop temperatures (reduced temperature higher than 0.7), but has no effect on the instability growth at low temperatures (reduced temperature lower than 0.63).
Src-family-tyrosine kinase Lyn is critical for TLR2-mediated NF-κB activation through the PI 3-kinase signaling pathway
Authors: Toubiana Julie , Rossi Anne-Lise , Belaidouni Nadia , Grimaldi David , Pene Frederic , Chafey Philippe , Comba Béatrice , Camoin Luc , Bismuth Georges , Claessens Yann-Erick , Mira Jean-Paul , Chiche Jean-Daniel
Published: June 2015

TLR2 has a prominent role in host defense against a wide variety of pathogens. Stimulation of TLR2 triggers MyD88-dependent signaling to induce NF-κB translocation, and activates a Rac1-PI 3-kinase dependent pathway that leads to transactivation of NF-κB through phosphorylation of the P65 NF-κB subunit. This transactivation pathway involves tyrosine phosphorylations. The role of the tyrosine kinases in TLR signaling is controversial, with discrepancies between studies using only chemical inhibitors and knockout mice. Here, we show the involvement of the tyrosine-kinase Lyn in TLR2-dependent activation of NF-κB in human cellular models, by using complementary inhibition strategies. Stimulation of TLR2 induces the formation of an activation cluster involving TLR2, CD14, PI 3-kinase and Lyn, and leads to the activation of AKT. Lyn-dependent phosphorylation of the p110 catalytic subunit of PI 3-kinase is essential to the control of PI 3-kinase biological activity upstream of AKT and thereby to the transactivation of NF-κB. Thus, Lyn kinase activity is crucial in TLR2-mediated activation of the innate immune response in human mononuclear cells.
Finding the royal way to stimulate and evaluate integrated care in Europe
Authors: Tsiachristas Apostolos
Published: June 2015

Integrated care is the most promising concept to tackle the increasing threat of chronic diseases by redesigning care and changing patient lifestyle and care provider behaviour. However, the evidence about integrated care in the literature is inconclusive. This might be largely explained by flaws in the development, delivery, evaluation and implementation of integrated care thus far. Therefore, the research agenda for integrated care should focus on the adequate development, comprehensive evaluation and successful implementation of integrated care in order to support the collaboration of health authorities, payers, care providers and patient organisations towards integrating care. These issues are not explicitly addressed in the current HORIZON 2020 work programme. This letter provides a short list of topics for future research in integrated care to provide evidence about the (cost-)effectiveness of integrated care.
North–South Imbalances in the Doha Round: The Use of Specific Duties as a Trade Policy Instrument
Authors: Kallummal Murali
Published: June 2015

This article examines one of the major systemic issues in the process of negotiation under the Doha Round of the World Trade Organization (WTO): the tariff lines with non-ad-valorem (NAV) duties in agricultural and allied products (A&AP) and further the process of ad-valorem equivalent (AVEs) calculations. By analyzing the trade policy instruments of the QUAD countries (the United States, the EU, Canada and Japan), plus Switzerland, and comparing them with those of eight developing countries, it clearly reveals how the QUAD Plus countries have added to the overall imbalances in both tariff and non-tariff measures, thereby further constraining market access for developing countries’ exports in agriculture and allied sectors.
The Origins and Continuation of First World Import Dependence on Developing Countries for Agricultural Products
Authors: Patnaik Utsa
Published: June 2015

This article puts forward two main propositions which have been discussed at length in earlier papers and supports these with historical and current data, which have not been presented before. The first proposition is that the origins of Third World food dependence lie in the First World’s dependence on developing countries for both food and non-food imports. The second is that the advanced countries’ dependence has not declined, on the contrary the list of products imported from developing countries has become much longer in recent years, since air-freighting has permitted imports of highly perishable products, not possible earlier.
Seeking an Alternative Development Paradigm for Greek Agriculture
Authors: Bilias Fotis
Published: June 2015

In the current global economic crisis, Greece has implemented austerity policies which have resulted in an unprecedented social catastrophe. An alternative development paradigm based on the reorganization of production for the benefit of popular forces must give considerable importance to agriculture. Greek agriculture has been transformed by neoliberal policies and the imperialist integration project of the European Union. This is reflected in changes in production orientation, the concentration of farmland and livestock, the deepening of agro-food dependence, rural depopulation and the shrinking incomes of small farmers. The outbreak of the financial crisis has intensified this condition, revealing essentially the crisis of the former developmental paradigm. The main question which arises is whether there is an objective possibility for a small country like Greece to take up the challenge of an alternative route. This article argues that, despite the many transformations, there remain objective possibilities for an alternative agricultural model based on production cooperatives and democratic social planning that will take into account domestic food requirements and the protection of small farmers.
Book Review: Amiya Kumar Bagchi and Amita Chatterjee (Editors) (2014), Marxism with and Beyond Marx
Authors: Abrol Dinesh Kumar
Published: June 2015

Amiya Kumar Bagchi and Amita Chatterjee (Editors) (2014), Marxism with and Beyond Marx, New Delhi/Oxon, UK: Routledge, ISBN 978-1-138-79567-9, pp. 272, ₹ 850.
Inefficient Stable International Trade Networks
Authors: May Daniel E.
Published: June 2015

A recent study in the area of international trade networks found that global free trade (GFT) is pairwise stable. This finding has led to the conclusion that bilateralism is a building block for GFT. The current article uses an alternative stability concept to show that international networks other than GFT are the only stable networks when governments are politically biased. The main implication of this finding is that the use of bilateral agreements as a political tool to reach GFT can in fact lead to inefficient stable networks.
Anterior Glenoid Rim Fracture Following Use of Resorbable Devices for Glenohumeral Stabilization
Authors: Augusti Carlo Alberto , Paladini Paolo , Campi Fabrizio , Merolla Giovanni , Bigoni Marco , Porcellini Giuseppe
Published: June 2015

Background

Resorbable anchors are widely used in arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder as a means of soft tissue fixation to bone. Their function is to ensure repair stability until they are replaced by host tissue. Complications include inflammatory soft tissue reactions, cyst formation, screw fragmentation in the joint, osteolytic reactions, and enhanced glenoid rim susceptibility to fracture.

Purpose

To evaluate resorption of biodegradable screws and determine whether they induce formation of areas with poor bone strength that may lead to glenoid rim fracture even with minor trauma.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

This study evaluated 12 patients with anterior shoulder instability who had undergone arthroscopic stabilization with the Bankart technique and various resorbable anchors and subsequently experienced redislocation. The maximum interval between arthroscopic stabilization and the new dislocation was 52 months (mean, 22.16 months; range, 12-52 months). The mean patient age was 31.6 years (range, 17-61 years). The persistence or resorption of anchor holes; the number, area, and volume of osteolytic lesions; and glenoid erosion/fracture were assessed using computed tomography scans taken after redislocation occurred.

Results

Complete screw resorption was never documented. Osteolytic lesions were found at all sites (mean diameter, 5.64 mm; mean depth, 8.09 mm; mean area, 0.342 cm2; mean volume, 0.345 cm3), and all exceeded anchor size. Anterior glenoid rim fracture was seen in 9 patients, even without high-energy traumas (75% of all recurrences).

Conclusion

Arthroscopic stabilization with resorbable devices is a highly reliable procedure that is, however, not devoid of complications. In all 12 patients, none of the different implanted anchors had degraded completely, even in patients with longer follow-up, and all induced formation of osteolytic areas. Such reaction may lead to anterior glenoid rim fracture according to the literature and as found in 75% of the study patients with local osteolysis (9/12). Reducing anchor number and/or size may reduce the risk of osteolytic areas and anterior glenoid rim fracture.
Mechanical and physical properties of chitosan-compatibilized montmorillonite-filled tapioca starch nanocomposite films
Authors: Ghani Siti Waqina Abdul , Bakar Aznizam Abu , Samsudin Sani Amril
Published: June 2015

Chitosan-compatibilized montmorillonite-filled plasticized tapioca starch (thermoplastic starch) nanocomposite films were produced using a solution casting method. Chitosan used was prepared and produced from the local shrimp shells. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the interlayer spacing of the chitosan-compatibilized montmorillonite/thermoplastic starch films was slightly increased which indicated that the chitosan was too large to intercalate into the clay galleries. However, a scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the compatibilized films produced a more homogeneous distribution of montmorillonite nanoclay particulate compared to the uncompatibilized films. The water vapor transmission rate, water absorption, and light absorbance thermoplastic starch films decreased with increasing chitosan and decreasing montmorillonite content. The increased chitosan content from 5 to 9 wt% with decreased montmorillonite content from 7 to 3 wt% improved flexibility about 53%, water resistance 66%, water vapor transmission rate resistance 9%, and thermoplastic starch film light transmission with a moderate decrease, tensile strength about 12% and tensile modulus about 99%. Generally, the chitosan successfully acted as a compatibilizing agent between montmorillonite and starch by improving the properties, particularly on film flexibility, which is utilized for food packaging.
Long-term follow-up of MCL patients treated with single-agent ibrutinib: updated safety and efficacy results
Authors: Wang Michael L. , Blum Kristie A. , Martin Peter , Goy Andre , Auer Rebecca , Kahl Brad S. , Jurczak Wojciech , Advani Ranjana H. , Romaguera Jorge E. , Williams Michael E. , Barrientos Jacqueline C. , Chmielowska Ewa , Radford John , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Dreyling Martin , Jedrzejczak Wieslaw Wiktor , Johnson Peter , Spurgeon Stephen E. , Zhang Liang , Baher Linda , Cheng Mei , Lee Dana , Beaupre Darrin M. , Rule Simon
Published: June 2015

Key Points

Ibrutinib demonstrates durable responses and sustained single-agent activity in relapsed or refractory MCL at median 26.7-month follow-up. Ibrutinib shows a favorable benefit-risk profile over time, with a manageable safety profile.
Integration Concepts of the Lands Inhabited by Albanians
Authors: Kropiak Katarzyna
Published: June 2015

The provisions of the London Conference of 1913 established a new balance of powers after the first Balkan war. It was to guarantee the respect of interests and provide the territorial integrity of the newly created national countries, however, in reality it was the reflection of the political interests of the powers. The Ottoman occupation of the Balkans led to the situationin which different ethnic communities inhabited the same territories together. The principality of Albania was established in the borders, which only partially overlapped with the area inhabited by Albanians. Beyond the borders of Albania established in 1913 there were, among others, Kosovo and northern‑western Macedonia, inhabited by Albanians at the end of the XVI century until the beginning of the XIX century as a result of the economic migrations and numerous resettlements of the people. The decisions of the London Conference on the borders of Albania were to guarantee the ethnic homogeneity of the state’s territory. On the example of the history of the Autonomous Republic of the Northern Epirus it can be argued that this assumption has not been completely satisfied. Although outside the borders of the Albanian state there were many areas where the Albanians were the majority, the borders of the principality were determined in a way which was to guarantee the territorial integrity of the newly created country. Within the borders of Albania there were various clans previously included in various Vilayets, which professed different religions. In case of other ethnic groups, the religious factor had a highly destabilising significance. It is worth mentioning that in the initial period of the existence of the country, there was no centre of the strong political leadership (Wilhelm zu Wied emigrated after several months). The factor which consolidated the population living in the newly created country was the Albanian language, different from the languages of the region and the activity of the National Revival Movement, which placed a strong emphasis of the mythologisation of the Albanian history. The listed conditionings has strong impact on the population experiencing the membership to the Albanian nation also beyond the borders established in London and Florence. The demarcation of the borders of the state not coinciding with the ethnic borders made the border area at the turn of the XX and XXI century become the area of conflict.
A Platform on the Future Yugoslav Community (Izetbegovic- Gligorov Plan)
Authors: Katz Vera
Published: June 2015

A platform on the future Yugoslav community or the Izetbegovic-Gligorov Plan offered one of the options in searching of the possibilities for the organization of relating among the Yugoslav republics with the aim to avoid the war conflicts in a general disintegration of the party, political, economic and state system of the Socialistic Federative Republic of Yugoslavia. The platform was based on the principle 2+2+2 and projected an asymmetric federation or confederation, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Macedonia were semi independent but sovereign republics, and Croatia and Slovenia were as sovereign and autonomous within the confederation as they considered to be necessary. However, the suggestion option could not reconcile the confronting political stances of Slovenia and Croatia on one and Serbia, Montenegro on the other side. The national interests which led to the creation of independent states were much stronger than the possibilities of reorganization of the Yugoslav federation into a modern European state.
The Role of Stabilisation Missions in the Process of Police Reform in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Wilk Daniel
Published: June 2015

In 2001, the increasing tension led to a threat to Macedonian sovereignty and territorial integrity due to the events that took place in the north‑western regions of the country bordering Albania and Kosovo. The actions of Albanian separatists associated with National Liberation Army that aimed at making Albanian and Macedonian nationalities equal within the Republic resulted in an increase of anti‑Albanian attitudes that contributed to the Macedonian‑Albanian conflict. The six‑month fight was ended on 13 August 2001 when the peace agreement was signed in Ohrid. The agreement, which was accepted by both sides of the conflict, was more favourable for the Albanians since it made their status as citizens almost equal to that of Macedonians. A growing tension among the Albanian minority forced immediate implementation of the decisions included in the Ohrid Agreement. The European Union in cooperation with the OSCE and NATO played a key role in the process of stabilising the socio‑political situation. The police reform in the Republic of Macedonia was a crucial element of the Ohrid Agreement. The changes were to ensure proportional representation of all nationalities comprising the Macedonian society in law enforcement services. The European Union and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe conducted three stabilisation missions: one was a military mission – CONCORDIA, and two were police missions: PROXIMA and EUPAT.
Policy to Combat Human Trafficking in Macedonia – Legislation, Specialised Bodies and Procedures
Authors: Woźnica Rafał
Published: June 2015

For many years, the Balkans have been considered to be the primary area of interest of criminal groups that traffic in people, especially women and children. In Macedonia, this problem was revealed in the 1990s. However, initial efforts to reduce this phenomenon and combat it proved ineffective. This stemmed from the lack of a designated strategy and the narrow character of cooperation between individual institutions. The situation was unfavourable since human trafficking is an issue that requires an interdisciplinary approach and the collaboration of many bodies. This paper is an attempt to present and assess the institutional and legal system currently being established in the Republic of Macedonia in order to effectively combat the problem of trafficking in persons. First of all, the author will describe the existing legal framework and will also indicate the specialised institutions and procedures established in order to undertake coordinated institutional measures that address the problem of trafficking in persons.
Early interventions for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Bowman Mark Albert , Cunningham Emma Louise , Passmore Anthony , McGuinness Bernadette
Published: June 2015

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. At present there is no cure. The prevalence of the disease presents a global health challenge and, currently, only drugs for symptom control are available. Our knowledge of risk factors for development of AD has improved significantly, and this will help inform and guide good public health strategies for modification of these risk factors. The early identification of those who are at risk of developing the disease or who have signs of early cognitive impairment will be key in implementing specific interventions. Early interventions include addressing needs that arise from the diagnosis, promoting and maintaining independence, undertaking cognitive activities and addressing co-morbid disease and identifying culprit medications. There is also an emerging role for dietary intervention and supplementation as well as the use of particular medications.
The State of Mind Boot Room: Reducing social isolation and promoting mental fitness
Authors: Cooper Phil , Stringer Will , Howes James , Norton Joanne
Published: June 2015

State of Mind Sport educate the public to increase awareness of mental ill-health, tackle stigma and build mental fitness using the power of rugby league and sport. State of Mind have delivered education sessions to over 7000 people since 2011 following the death of a former international rugby league player who took his own life. The ‘Boot Room’ pilot project used the power of classic rugby league games to attract men to a mental fitness session, and then used the game to provide subtle mental fitness messages. The project aimed to reduce social isolation and signpost people to support. Evaluation revealed levels of depressed mood among those who attended. Results showed 47 different people attended four sessions and the total attendance was 62 (including repeat attenders). Seven people indicated depressed mood and then accessed local support services, and a number of those attending requested to attend further sessions and to organise the next project. Feedback has been positive from those who attended.
Progress in years 7 and 8
Authors: Reynolds Chris
Published: June 2015

Pupils who progress well in years 7 and 8 are less likely to need intervention later on in their school careers. Chris Reynolds reports on his work to support the attainment of younger pupils
Colonización del Cardenal Belluga en las tierras donadas por Guardamar del Segura: creación de un paisaje agrario y situación actual
Authors: Canales Martínez Gregorio , Vera Rebollo José Fernando
Published: June 2015

El sector objeto de este estudio coincide con el tramo final de la llanura aluvial del ríoSegura, ocupada por terrenos cuaternarios, y la parte Sur de la sierra del Molar, de edad neógena. Se trata de un ejemplo de zona pantanosa cerrada al mar por restinga y que hasta épocas recientes formó parte de un conjunto lagunar más amplio, prolongado hacia el Oeste y Norte por la laguna del Hondo, los saladares de Albatera y la Albufera de Elche. La escasa pendiente de la zona y los aportes del Segura justifican su avenamiento precario. El río forma un delta interior, antigua albufera, que avanza hacia el mar dando origen a una costa rectilínea. El área pantanosa existe, al menos, desde el 4.000 B. P., momento en que los ríos Segura y Vinalopó entran de nuevo en funcionamiento y aportan aguas dulces que desplazan a las saladas existentes hasta entonces. No parece sin embargo que el carácter pantanoso fuese un factor hostil para el establecimiento poblacional si se atiende a la existencia de dos poblados ibéricos (La Escuera y Cabezo Lucero), sobre las formaciones neógenas que flanquean por el Norte y Sur este tramo de valle aluvial.La acción antrópica reciente, plasmada en la construcción de una densa red de canales yacequias de avenamiento y regadío, ha sido la causa de una importante transformación del paisaje natural en esta zona.
Estudio de un fenómeno de desprendimiento de rocas (rock-fall) en la Sierra de San Julián (Alicante)
Authors: Cuenca Payá Artemio
Published: June 2015

El 24 de noviembre de 1984, poco después del mediodía, se produjo un desprendimiento de rocas en el antiguo frente de cantera que la Junta de Obras del Puerto abrió en el extremo SW de la Sierra de San Julián (fig.1) afectando a una masa de 2.800 Tm de calcarenitas cuyo impacto contra el suelo produjo un pequeño seísmo registrado en el Observatorio Sismológico de Alicante, a 1,4 km de distancia, a las 13.26.55,8 (TMG) y 6,4 segundos después en el de Canalobre, a 18 kilómetros.
Las condiciones climáticas y marítimas como factores de localización del turismo histórico alicantino
Authors: Vera Rebollo José Fernando
Published: June 2015

El presente trabajo versa sobre la importancia que ha tenido el turismo histórico para elposterior desarrollo de la figura del municipio turístico. En este sentido, la práctica totalidad delos núcleos del litoral alicantino, con especial significación vacacional en la actualidad (Denia,Benidorm, Jávea, Altea, Santa Pola, Torrevieja, Villajoyosa y la propia capital), cuentan con una larga tradición como lugares de veraneo que, en algún caso, arranca desde su origen, como se constata en Torrevieja, frecuentada en su mayor parte por la población de su entorno comarcal.
La formación de frentes de brisa activos en la comarca alicantina del Alto Vinalopó. El episodio atmosférico de 27 de abril de 2001
Authors: Azorín Molina César
Published: June 2015

Aún cuando las circulaciones estivales de brisa marina pasen desapercibidas para el gran público, percibiéndose éstas simplemente por su efecto dulcificador en las temperaturas de la franja litoral durante los meses centrales del estío, la importancia climática de estos vientos de carácter periódico ha sido centro de preocupación y objeto de estudio desde los orígenes de la ciencia climática. El presente trabajo pretende justificar, a partir del episodio meteorológico de lluvia intensa y granizo de 27 de abril de 2001, la importancia del juego conjunto de vientos locales (brisas de mar-tierra y vientos de vallemontaña) como percutores de primer orden en la génesis de frentes de brisa activos en las tierras del tramo alto del Vinalopó.
El palmeral de Elche: patrimonio, gestión y turismo
Authors: Larrosa Rocamora José Antonio
Published: June 2015

El palmeral histórico de Elche es un sistema agrícola de origen árabe estructurado en parcelas rectangulares, en cuyos límites están plantadas las palmeras. El indudable valor patrimonial de este espacio, protegido legalmente desde 1933, ha sido reafirmado y aumentado en la década de 1990 gracias a la ampliación del concepto de patrimonio hacia los bienes de la tradición popular: fiestas, actividades, técnicas, etc. En este contexto, la UNESCO declaró el palmeral histórico de Elche como Patrimonio de la Humanidad en el año 2000, y con ello se han abierto las puertas del desarrollo del turismo en la ciudad. Sin embargo, la gestión de este espacio no ha sido ni es la más adecuada, en parte debido a la falsa imagen que ha trascendido del palmeral como jardín exótico, imagen que ha sido reproducida en muchos huertos abiertos al público en general y a la actividad turística en particular. La aparición en los últimos años de nuevas tendencias motivacionales en la demanda turística, entre las cuales se halla el aumento de la valoración y la búsqueda de todo lo relacionado con la cultura, abre nuevas posibilidades al desarrollo de un turismo que ayude a proteger y a conservar el palmeral con su impronta agrícola intacta.
El crecimiento urbano de Benidorm según los expedientes de obras (1950-1970)
Authors: Martín-Serrano Rodríguez Gabino-Antonio
Published: June 2015

La ciudad de Benidorm ha experimentado grandes cambios en el último medio siglo. En 1950 aún conservaba un sistema productivo centrado en las actividades agrícolas, pero a partir de ese año, tendrán lugar procesos de diversa índole que transformarán la estructura social y productiva del municipio. Entre estos procesos cabe destacar el crecimiento urbano, que significó no sólo una expansión superficial de la trama urbana, sino un cambio radical en la manera de hacer ciudad. El periodo de tiempo entre 1950 y 1970 es fundamental a la hora de entender estos cambios, ya que se puede considerar una etapa de transición en la que se propusieron diferentes modelos de ciudad y se establecieron las claves para la formación de la ciudad actual.
Análisis de la siniestralidad aérea por causa meteorológica (1970-1999)
Authors: Moreno García María del Carmen , Gil Aguinaliu M. Ángel
Published: June 2015

En este artículo se realiza un estudio sobre la influencia que han tenido los factores atmosféricos en la seguridad aérea, en el ámbito mundial, en el período 1970-1999. Como resultado del análisis se observa que la siniestralidad aérea por causas atmosféricas representa una pequeña fracción del total de accidentes y tiene además una clara evolución descendente en el tiempo. Las causas más importantes son el engelamiento o acumulación de hielo en alas y fuselaje, la cizalladura o variación brusca del viento en cortos espacios, la turbulencia y la baja visibilidad. En cada caso se intenta ver la dependencia estacional y sus causas unido a la incidencia del factor humano.
Antioxidant potential of some Sudanese medicinal plants used in traditional medicine
Authors: EL-Kamali Hatil , E. M. Hamed Sana
Published: June 2015

In the present work methanolic and water extracts of 19 medicinal plants, commonly used in Sudanese folk medicines against gastrointestinal tract, infectious diseases were investigated for their antioxidant activity. Antioxidant assays were carried out by using different in vitro models such as DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging and Iron chelating activity. Methanolic and water extracts of Punica granatum showed the highest total antioxidant activity of 71Â±0.03 and 73Â±0.01 respectively. The antioxidant activities of water extracts were poor when compared to the methanol extract. The iron chelating power of methanol and aqueous extracts of Commiphora myrrha 58Â±0.01 and Azadirachta indica 57Â±0.20 respectively.