bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequences Flanking the Gephyrin-Binding Site of GlyRβ Tune Receptor Stabilization at Synapses
Authors: Grünewald Nora , Jan Audric , Salvatico Charlotte , Kress Vanessa , Renner Marianne , Triller Antoine , Specht Christian G. , Schwarz Guenter
Published: February 2018

The efficacy of synaptic transmission is determined by the number of neurotransmitter receptors at synapses. Their recruitment depends upon the availability of postsynaptic scaffolding molecules that interact with specific binding sequences of the receptor. At inhibitory synapses, gephyrin is the major scaffold protein that mediates the accumulation of heteromeric glycine receptors (GlyRs) via the cytoplasmic loop in the β-subunit (β-loop). This binding involves high- and low-affinity interactions, but the molecular mechanism of this bimodal binding and its implication in GlyR stabilization at synapses remain unknown. We have approached this question using a combination of quantitative biochemical tools and high-density single molecule tracking in cultured rat spinal cord neurons. The high-affinity binding site could be identified and was shown to rely on the formation of a 310-helix C-terminal to the β-loop core gephyrin-binding motif. This site plays a structural role in shaping the core motif and represents the major contributor to the synaptic confinement of GlyRs by gephyrin. The N-terminal flanking sequence promotes lower affinity interactions by occupying newly identified binding sites on gephyrin. Despite its low affinity, this binding site plays a modulatory role in tuning the mobility of the receptor. Together, the GlyR β-loop sequences flanking the core-binding site differentially regulate the affinity of the receptor for gephyrin and its trapping at synapses. Our experimental approach thus bridges the gap between thermodynamic aspects of receptor-scaffold interactions and functional receptor stabilization at synapses in living cells.
Can Serial Dependencies in Choices and Neural Activity Explain Choice Probabilities?
Authors: Lueckmann Jan-Matthis , Macke Jakob H. , Nienborg Hendrikje
Published: February 2018

During perceptual decisions the activity of sensory neurons covaries with choice, a covariation often quantified as “choice-probability”. Moreover, choices are influenced by a subject's previous choice (serial dependence) and neuronal activity often shows temporal correlations on long (seconds) timescales. Here, we test whether these findings are linked. Using generalized linear models, we analyze simultaneous measurements of behavior and V2 neural activity in macaques performing a visual discrimination task. Both, decisions and spiking activity show substantial temporal correlations and cross-correlations but seem to reflect two mostly separate processes. Indeed, removing history effects using semipartial correlation analysis leaves choice probabilities largely unchanged. The serial dependencies in choices and neural activity therefore cannot explain the observed choice probability. Rather, serial dependencies in choices and spiking activity reflect two predominantly separate but parallel processes, which are coupled on each trial by covariations between choices and activity. These findings provide important constraints for computational models of perceptual decision-making that include feedback signals.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCorrelations, unexplained by the sensory input, between the activity of sensory neurons and an animal's perceptual choice (“choice probabilities”) have received attention from both a systems and computational neuroscience perspective. Conversely, whereas temporal correlations for both spiking activity (“non-stationarities”) and for a subject's choices in perceptual tasks (“serial dependencies”) have long been established, they have typically been ignored when measuring choice probabilities. Some accounts of choice probabilities incorporating feedback predict that these observations are linked. Here, we explore the extent to which this is the case. We find that, contrasting with these predictions, choice probabilities are largely independent of serial dependencies, which adds new constraints to accounts of choice probabilities that include feedback.
Non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP): impact on the reclassification of thyroid nodules
Authors: Amendoeira Isabel , Maia Tiago , Sobrinho-Simões Manuel
Published: February 2018

The 2017 edition of the WHO book on Classification of Tumours of Endocrine Organs includes a new section entitled ‘Other encapsulated follicular-patterned thyroid tumours’, in which the newly created NIFTP (non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features) is identified and described in detail. Despite deleting the word ‘carcinoma’ from its name, NIFTP is not a benign tumor either and is best regarded as a neoplasm with ‘very low malignant potential’. The main goal of the introduction of NIFTP category is to prevent overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Sampling constraints, especially when dealing with heterogeneous and/or large nodules, and difficulties in the invasiveness evaluation, are the major weaknesses of the histological characterization of NIFTP. At the cytological level, NIFTP can be separated from classic papillary carcinoma (cPTC) but not from encapsulated, invasive follicular variant PTC. The impact of NIFTP individualization for cytopathology is the drop of rates of malignancy for each Bethesda category in general and for indeterminate categories in particular. The biggest impact will be seen in institutions with a high frequency of FVPTC. The introduction of NIFTP has changed the utility of predictive values of molecular tests because RAS mutations and PAX8-PPARg rearrangements are frequently detected in NIFTP. This turns less promising the application of mutation detection panels as indicators of malignancy and will probably contribute to switch to a rule-out approach of molecular testing. Selection for surgery will go on being determined by a combined detection of clinical, cytological and ultrasound suspicious features.
Uterine and placental distribution of selected extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the dog
Authors: Graubner Felix R , Boos Alois , Aslan Selim , Kücükaslan Ibrahim , Kowalewski Mariusz P
Published: February 2018

For many years, modifications of the uterine extracellular matrix (ECM) during gestation have not been considered as critical for successful canine (Canis lupus familiaris) pregnancy. However, previous reports indicated an effect of free-floating blastocysts on the composition of the uterine ECM. Here, the expression of selected genes involved in structural functions, cell-to-cell communication and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases were targeted utilizing qPCR and immunohistochemistry. We found that canine free-floating embryos affect gene expression ofFN1,ECM1andTIMP4. This seems to be associated with modulation of trophoblast invasion, and proliferative and adhesive functions of the uterus. Although not modulated at the beginning of pregnancy, the decrease of structural ECM components (i.e.COL1,-3,-4andLAMA2) from pre-implantation toward post-implantation at placentation sites appears to be associated with softening of the tissue in preparation for trophoblast invasion. The further decrease of these components at placentation sites at the time of prepartum luteolysis seems to be associated with preparation for the release of fetal membranes. Reflecting a high degree of communication, intercellular cell adhesion molecules are induced following placentation (Cx26) or increase gradually toward prepartum luteolysis (Cx43). The spatio-temporal expression of TIMPs suggests their active involvement in modulating fetal invasiveness, and together withECM1, they appear to protect deeper endometrial structures from trophoblast invasion. With this, the dog appears to be an interesting model for investigating placental functions in other species, e.g. in humans in whichPlacenta accretaappears to share several similarities with canine subinvolution of placental sites (SIPS). In summary, the canine uterine ECM is only moderately modified in early pregnancy, but undergoes vigorous reorganization processes in the uterus and placenta following implantation.
Propuesta de un sistema de gestión integrado basado en NTC-ISO 9001:2015, NTC-ISO 14001:2015 y el Decreto 1072 de 2015 (capítulo 6) para una empresa de atención médica domiciliaria
Authors: Alfonso Zorro Nidia Yisel , Díaz Sánchez Sonia Stella , Gómez Hernández Florangela
Published: February 2018

La investigación aborda los antecedentes de los sistemas de gestión integral para avanzar en la formulación de una propuesta del sistema de gestión integrado basado en las normas técnicas NTC-ISO 9001:2015 y NTC-ISO 14001:2015 y el Decreto 1072 de 2015 (capítulo 6) para una empresa de atención domiciliaria; desde un paradigma pragmático, dentro de una investigación mixta, luego de realizar el análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo de la situación actual, frente al grado de implementación de los sistemas de gestión en la entidad, se realiza una propuesta que brinda herramientas a la organización para establecer un sistema de gestión integrado.
La Teoría de la Organización Requerida de Elliott Jaques: el capítulo faltante en los libros de texto de administración
Authors: Orozco Javier Muñoz
Published: February 2018

La administración como ciencia es relativamente reciente en el repertorio del conocimiento humano. Algunos autores la ubican a partir del discurso de Henry Robinson Towne en 1886, titulado El ingeniero como economista, dentro de la corriente de la administración científica (George y Álvarez, 2005). A partir de entonces, los libros de texto de administración dan fe de la obra de numerosos autores y escuelas del pensamiento administrativo, pero han pasado por alto la obra de Elliott Jaques (1917-2003), quien desarrolló la Teoría de la Organización Requerida. En este artículo se presenta un resumen de algunos aspectos importantes de dicha teoría, y se hace una comparación siguiendo el método de Glaser y Strauss (1967) de comparaciones constantes, con modelos previos construidos sobre bases científicas que impactaron el mundo de la administración, concluyendo que la Organización Requerida debe ser difundida en las escuelas de administración y en las empresas, pues es un modelo de actualidad que engloba a toda la organización y que puede ser proyectado hacia el futuro.
Evaluación de la madurez de la gestión de la seguridad y salud en el trabajo: revisión de literatura
Authors: Rodriguez-Rojas Yuber Liliana , Pedraza-Nájar Ximena Lucia , Martínez Arroyo Jaime Apolinar
Published: February 2018

Este artículo tiene como finalidad presentar los resultados de una revisión de literatura cuyo propósito fue identificar variables y dimensiones para la medición de la madurez de la gestión de la seguridad y salud en el trabajo. La revisión de la literatura realizada sobre 38 artículos publicados entre 2001-2017 en ScienceDirect, EBSCO, Eric y Redalyc y 6 documentos detectados a través de búsqueda iterativa, permitió identificar 10 dimensiones agrupadas en 3 variables que pueden contribuir en la medición de la madurez de esta gestión, a saber: contexto interno, contexto externo y el enfoque de la seguridad y salud en el trabajo (concebido como estrategia central).
Brodsky’s coding method for propositional logic
Authors: Alonderis Romas
Published: February 2018

Brodsky’s coding method for propositional logic is considered in the paper. Based on the sequent calculus, the method allows us to determine whether an arbitrary sequent is derivable in the calculus without constructing proof-search trees. The coding method, presented in the paper, can be used as a decision procedure for propositional logic.
Adaptive joint tracking approach of system parameters and the time delay
Authors: Pupeikis Rimantas
Published: February 2018

The problem of adaptive joint parameters and the time delay tracking is tackledby processing of input-output observations, when nonstacionary dynamical system has anunknown time delay. The recursive approach based on the method of corrective operatorsis developed for their tracking. Applicability of algorithms is supported by simulation testson a computer.
Hopf-pitchfork bifurcation of coupled van der Pol oscillator with delay
Authors: Cai Yuting , Zhang Chunrui
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the Hopf-pitchfork bifurcation of coupled van der Pol with delay is studied. The interaction coefficient and time delay are taken as two bifurcation parameters. Firstly, the normal form is gotten by performing a center manifold reduction and using the normal form theory developed by Faria and Magalhães. Secondly, bifurcation diagrams and phase portraits are given through analyzing the unfolding structure. Finally, numerical simulations are used to support theoretical analysis.
Synchronization of a class of fractional-order neural networks with multiple time delays by comparison principles
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Wu Ranchao , Cao Jinde , Alsaedi Ahmed , Hayat Tasawar
Published: February 2018

This paper studies the synchronization of fractional-order neural networks with multiple time delays. Based on an inequality of fractional-order and comparison principles of linear fractional equation with multiple time delays, some sufficient conditions for synchronization of master-slave systems are obtained. Example and related simulations are given to demonstrate the feasibility of the theoretical results.
Global stability and Hopf bifurcation of a diffusive predator–prey model with hyperbolic mortality and prey harvesting
Authors: Li Yan , Li Sanyun , Zhao Jingfu
Published: February 2018

This paper is concerned with a predator&ndashprey model with hyperbolic mortality and prey harvesting. The parameter regions for the stability and instability of the unique positive constant solution of ODE and PDE are derived, respectively, especially the global asymptotical stability of positive constant equilibrium of the diffusive model is obtained by iterative technique. The stability and direction of periodic solutions of ODE and PDE are investigated by center manifold theorem and normal form theory, respectively. Numerical simulations are carried out to depict our theoretical analysis.
C-class functions on fixed and common fixed point results for cyclic mappings of Omega-distance
Authors: Ansari Arslan Hojat Hojat , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we derive and formulate many fixed point results of cyclic form under contractive conditions based on implicit relations in the setting of Ω-distance. Our results improve and generalize many existing results in the literature. Also, we introduce an example to show the validity of our main result.
Randomly stopped sums with exponential-type distributions
Authors: Danilenko Svetlana , Markevičiūtė Jurgita , Šiaulys Jonas
Published: February 2018

Assume that {ξ1, ξ2, …} are independent and possibly nonidentically distributed random variables. Suppose that η is a nonnegative, nondegenerate at zero and integer-valued random variable, which is independent of {ξ1, ξ2, …}. In this paper, we consider conditions for η and {ξ1, ξ2, …} under which the distribution of the random sum {ξ1 + ξ2 + … + ξη} belongs to the class of exponential distributions.
Eigenvalue problem for nonlinear elastic beam equation of fractional order
Authors: Khodabakhshi Neda , Vaezpour S. Mansour Mansour
Published: February 2018

In this study, under some suitable assumptions, we determine an explicit eigenvalue interval for the existence of positive solution of singular fractional-order nonlinear elastic beam equation with bending term. Our analysis rely on cone theoretic techniques. Moreover, we consider some special cases and an example to affirm the applicability of the main result.
Prediction of composite indicators using locally weighted quantile regression
Authors: Rukšenaitė Jurga , Vaitkus Pranas , Asijavičius Povilas
Published: February 2018

The main goal of this paper is to improve the existing methods and tools used for solving penalized quantile regression problems. We modified the quantile regression method by implementing the extreme learning machine (ELM) algorithm and features of locally weighted regression. Also, we used different penalty functions. A modified method was used for the one-step-ahead prediction of the composite indicator (CI) of the Lithuanian economy. Our analysis showed that the prediction error of the modified locally weighted quantile regression is smaller in comparison to the other quantile regression.
The influence of different compounds of trace elements on the biomass and synthesis of exopolysaccharides of mycelium Trametes versicolor (Polyporaceae, Polyporales)
Authors: Al-Maali G. A.
Published: February 2018

This article presents the results of research on the influence of citrates of zinc, manganese and copper, obtained by the method of aquanotechnology, on a number of physiological indicators of a valuable medicinal mushroom Trametes versicolor 353. Previously we detected that these metal citrates stimulated the growth of mycelium more intensively than sulfates of the above-mentioned metals in equal concentrations. In the present research we investigated the influence of these metal citrates on the parameters of assimilation of carbon and nitrogen sources, metal ion accumulation and synthesis of exopolysaccharides. The degree of metals ions accumulation in the mycelium was studied by the  method of optical emission spectroscopy with an inductively coupled plasma. The economic coefficient of biomass synthesis and impact of nitrogen assimilation were higher on media with the metals citrate than on the medium with the sulfates of the studied metals. Thus, the highest economic coefficient of biomass synthesis (36%) was observed on the medium with copper citrate. Also, copper citrate (amongst the studied metals) increased the level of assimilation of the nitrogen source by up to 35%, versus 18% on the control medium. Quantitative analysis of trace elements in biomass showed that the mycelium accumulated an equal amount of zinc or manganese ions on both types of media (with citrate or sulfate of these metals). However, on the medium with copper citrate, mycelium of T. versicolor 353 accumulated copper ions better then on a medium with copper sulfate: 82.9 μg/g of biomass on the medium with copper sulfate versus 162.0 μg/g of biomass on the medium with copper citrate. Also the results show that a significant increase of biomass (by 79% relative to the control) on the copper citrate medium is due to a threefold reduction of the exopolysaccharides amount. This data indicates a greater biological activity of copper citrate,  relative to copper sulfate. Only zinc citrate raised both the synthesis of biomass and the synthesis of exopolysaccharides by 37% and 29% respectively ( relative to the control trial).
Lower vertebrates of Sehlabathebe National Park, Lesotho
Authors: Kopij G.
Published: February 2018

Five snake, four lizard, nine amphibian (all anurans) and three fish species were recorded in the Apline grasslands of the Sehlabathebe National Park, South-Eastern Lesotho, Southern Africa. They include rare, threatened and endemic species, some of which are restricted to the Drakensberg / Maloti region. The following species were recorded: snakes Lamprophis aurora, L. fuscus, Hemachatus haemachatus, Bitis arietans, B. atropos; lizards Trachylepsis punctatissima, Tropidosaura montana, Pseudocordylus melanotus, Afroedura nivaria; amphibians (anurans) Xenopus laevis laevis, Bufo gariepensis nubicolus, Cacosternum striatum, Amietia dracomontana, A. angloensis, A. fuscigula, A. umbraculata, Strongylopus fasciatus, Semnodactylus wealii; fishes Labeobarbus aeneus, Pseudobarbus quathlambae and Oncorhynchus mykiss. Species with high conservation priorities include: Lamprophis fuscus, Tropidosaura cottrelli, Pseudocordylus spinosus, Amietia umbraculata, A. drakomontana, Strongylopus fasciatus and Pseudobarbus quathlambae.
Effect of hydrogen peroxide on Na+,K+-ATPase activity in spermatozoa of infertile men
Authors: Fafula R. V. , Meskalo О. I. , Lychkovskyy E. I. , Iefremova U. P. , Onofrovych O. K. , Maksymyuk H. V. , Melnyk O. V. , Nakonechnyi I. A. , Vorobets D. Z. , Vorobets Z. D.
Published: February 2018

Na+,K+-ATPase plays an essential role in sperm motility, hyperactivation, chemotaxis, acrosome reaction etc. Na+,K+-ATPase is sensitive to ROS insult. Apart from production of highly reactive molecules, H2O2 can exert a number of direct effects on cells, their metabolism and enzymes. In the present study, exposure to exogenous H2O2 was used to characterize the effects of H2O2 on Na+,K+-ATPase activity in spermatozoa of infertile men with different forms of pathospermia. It was shown that Na+,K+-ATPase activities in spermatozoa of infertile men with different forms of pathospermia were inhibited by exposure to H2O2 (50−500 μM). H2O2, one of the most toxic oxygen species, has the ability to depress Na+,K+-ATPase activity in a dose-dependent manner. Severe inhibition of the hydrolytic activity was observed when higher H2O2 were used. The time course of incubation with 100 μM H2O2 showed a sharp decrease in the enzyme activity during the first 5 min of incubation for both normozoospermic and pathozoospermic men. The enzymatic activity of Na+,K+-ATPase in the sperm was completely destroyed at 20 min for asthenozoospermic men and 30 min for normozoospermic men. We show that an administation of H2O2 inhibited Na+,K+-ATPase activity in normozoospermic samples with IC50 of 106.6 ± 7.9 μM. IC50 for patients with asthenozoospermia was two times less than for healthy men with preserved fertility. For other studied groups, the differences in IC50 were not significant. These observations suggest that Na+,K+-ATPase in pathozoospermic samples is more vulnerable to H2O2-induced damage than in normozoospermic men. The Hill coefficient was significantly increased only for patients with asthenozoospermia, indicating increased positively cooperative binding. The decreases in Na+,K+-ATPase hydrolase activity in H2O2-treated sperm cells in men with normozoospermia were largely attenuated by exogenous GSH at 5 mM. This suggests that GSH partially protects the Na+,K+-ATPase from inhibition under experimental oxidative stress. However, treatment of oligo-, astheno- and oligoasthenozoospermic samples with 100 μM H2O2 and 5 mM GSH did not result in protection of Na+,K+-ATPase against induced oxidation, suggesting that the impaired Na+,K+-ATPase in pathozoospermic samples appears to be an irreversible event. In contrast, presence of GSH only after H2O2 treatment does not reverse Na+,K+-ATPase inhibition. This study has provided a deeper insight into the role Na+,K+-ATPase plays in sperm cells,it also could offer clues to the clinical application of antioxidant therapy in male infertility therapy.
Hindfoot Endoscopy: Correlation of the Preoperative Indications with the Perioperative Endoscopic Findings
Authors: UNAL A. Meric
Published: February 2018

Background: The aim
of this study was to review the disorders treated with hindfoot endoscopy and
investigate the detected ratio and type of combined pathologies. The second aim
was to evaluate the preoperative and peroperative findings before and at the
time of hindfoot endoscopy.Patients and Methods: 81
hindfoot endoscopies of the 77 patients performed between 2010-2015 were
reviewed. Demographic informations, preoperative physical and radiological
findings and operative data of all patients were noted. Preoperative physical
examination for hindfoot was performed in a standart fashion for all patients. Weight-bearing
anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken for all patients. Magnetic
resonance imaging(MRI) was performed to all patients except obvious prescence
of bony impingement. The hindfoot endoscopy was performed to all patients at
prone position under either spinal or general anesthesia with standart
posteromedial and posterolateral portals described as Van Dijk et al.Results: In this
case series; the most detected preoperative indications were flexor hallucis
longus tendinopathy(27.1%), symptomatic os trigonum(22.2%) as a cause of
posterior ankle impingement and insertional achilles tendinopathy(20.9%). The most
detected endoscopic findings were flexor hallucis longus
tendinopathy(33.3%),  symptomatic os
trigonum(19.3%), and retrocalcaneal bursitis(16.2%).16 patients(19.7%) had
preoperatively detected combined pathologies. In 32 patients(39.5%), a new
indication was added to preoperative indication.

Conclusion: Posterior
ankle impingement and peri-achilles pathologies are the most seen indications
for this technique. It is important that we all must aware of perioperatively
detected new indications and rare conditions.
Nanobyte
Authors: Vaishnav Radhika A.
Published: February 2018

Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1/PD-L1 can have differing effects in various individuals. Recent studies published have suggested a role in the gut microbiome composition in contributing to the efficacy of these drugs. Patients who took antibiotics showed a poorer response to PD-1 inhibitors compared to those who did not take any antibiotics. In another study, fecal transplants to mice from patients that improved on PD-1 blockers showed improvement on the drugs, while mice receiving transplants from poor responders showed similar lack of efficacy of PD-1 blockers. New clinical trials and metagenomics studies are anticipated in the near future that could allow us to understand better the mechanisms of the gut microbial role in the effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockers.
Academic library directors’ strategic decision-making process
Authors: Lembinen Liisi
Published: February 2018

Academic libraries are going through major changes and leadership of these libraries plays a vital role. In the past, academic library directors’ strategic decision-making process has been infrequently researched. This study researched academic library directors’ strategic decision-making process and resources. During this pilot project, seven LIBER member library directors from five different countries were interviewed. As a result, two main generalizations based on these interviews can be made. First, academic library directors use various resources to make strategic decisions and second, library directors are not individualists who make important decisions alone; instead, early in the decision-making process they involve their staff and library stakeholder as well as users.
Wprowadzenie. Nowe aspekty współczesnych problemów społecznych
Authors: Grotowska-Leder Jolanta
Published: February 2018

Numer 62 czasopisma „Folia Sociologica” obejmuje siedem artykułów dotyczących w zdecydowanej większości diagnozy nowych aspektów, tradycyjnych problemów społecznych, a mianowicie: trudności w dostępie do rynku pracy, niepełnosprawności, narkomanii, przestępczości i sieroctwa społecznego, ze wskazaniem na ich cechy i konteksty charakterystyczne dla współczesnego społeczeństwa, głównie polskiego.
Spatial Econometric Approach to Modelling of Selected Western Diseases
Authors: Olejnik Alicja Anna , Żółtaszek Agata
Published: February 2018

For years now, developed countries face an epidemic of high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, risk factors related to heart and circulatory disease, and a suite of psychological disorders ranging from depression, anxiety, to compulsive behaviours. These health risks have traditionally been associated with affluence, however by 2008 there is no clear link between national income and these diseases. E.g. according to Danaei, there was no relationship between national income and blood pressure in men, and in women blood pressure was even higher in poorer countries. This paper provides an in depth analysis of this correlation, applying spatial econometrics tools. The spatial aspect of the prevalence of western diseases does not seem to be obvious and, to our knowledge, is not widely explored in the literature. In particular, the paper investigates the spatial processes of selected diseases of affluence in regions of the European Union. The research covers 261 NUTS 2 regions for the period 2003–2010. This study provides the spatial analysis of circulatory and mental health disorders. In our opinion, the presented spatial econometric approach may constitute an important contribution to the field of epidemiology.
One Value of Smoothing Parameter vs Interval of Smoothing Parameter Values in Kernel Density Estimation
Authors: Baszczyńska Aleksandra Katarzyna
Published: February 2018

Ad hoc methods in the choice of smoothing parameter in kernel density estimation, al­though often used in practice due to their simplicity and hence the calculated efficiency, are char­acterized by quite big error. The value of the smoothing parameter chosen by Silverman method is close to optimal value only when the density function in population is the normal one. Therefore, this method is mainly used at the initial stage of determining a kernel estimator and can be used only as a starting point for further exploration of the smoothing parameter value. This paper pre­sents ad hoc methods for determining the smoothing parameter. Moreover, the interval of smooth­ing parameter values is proposed in the estimation of kernel density function. Basing on the results of simulation studies, the properties of smoothing parameter selection methods are discussed.
New Approach to International Competitiveness of Multi‑layer Enterprises. A Reference to Macroeconomic Models for the Assessment of Competitiveness as a Benchmark
Authors: Rosińska-Bukowska Magdalena
Published: February 2018

The author of this paper has demonstrated that in the period of the ongoing globalization new challenges regarding the creation of competitiveness have appeared. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for a new look at the issues of international competitiveness in the era of globalization and the necessity to focus efforts on creating a competitive system which results from actions at the micro‑, meso‑, macro‑ and meta‑economical levels. The author has presented the concept of systemic competiveness as a new approach to the assessment of international competitiveness of multi‑layer enterprises. The author has tried to express that it is the most important challenge for all kinds of participants on the global market, since, for each of them, the determinants of the surrounding environment are both new and the same. The paper is divided into four substantial parts and also includes an introduction and a summary. The first part of the article includes a reflection on the current challenges in the globalization process and requirements for international competitiveness in the era of corporate globalization – the current level in a developing of globalization process. The second part includes the theoretical concepts of competitiveness in compound organizations according to five concepts of international competitiveness. In the subsequent part, the author refers to a concept of five layers of the capital of organizations, which constitute pillars of the creation of competitiveness in the current economy, especially in multi‑layer enterprises. In the final part of article the author has shown the general assumptions of the concept of systemic coopetitiveness.
New communication practices on the radio and in the audiosphere
Authors: Bachura-Wojtasik Joanna
Published: February 2018

For the past decade or so, internet radio, podcasts, mobile sound apps, and digital libraries of audio content have enjoyed increasing popularity among researchers and receivers of culture. Radio, similarly to other traditional media, often experiments with the opportunities offered by the new media technologies enabling the emergence of new communicational practices. As a starting point, I consider the contemporary audiosphere, which constitutes the auditory part of the audio-visual culture, and the influence of technological changes on radio communications, artists, and receivers. I attempt to answer the question, what happens at genre fringes? What are the characteristic features of the emerging forms? How, when one is faced with new technology, the multimedia world, and virtual reality, can one reach a reflection on the fiction and non-fiction genres on the radio? The expansive character of new technologies is often the source of inspiration for that which is traditional, thus renewing the object of its study. The inclusion of new phenomena within the widely understood auditoriness has a rescuing nature for traditional forms, and, at the same time, offers new opportunities for creators, and thus an area of research for literary scientists, media scientists and literary critics.
Persuasive functions of photo galleries on information websites
Authors: Kampka Agnieszka
Published: February 2018

The article presents a rhetorical analysis of online galleries. The author argues that the selection of photographs presented in a gallery serves the purpose of fulfilling a persuasive goal. That is proved by, as indicated in the analysis, the verbal and visual markers of coherence, and the narrativeness visible at the level of individual photographs, groups of photographs, and the entire gallery.
Journalistic practices of science popularization in the context of users’ agenda: A case study of „New Scientist”
Authors: Molek-Kozakowska Katarzyna
Published: February 2018

The article includes a discussion of two models which describe contemporary communication processes in journalism: agenda-setting and news value, indicating the need to expand their research tools to include qualitative methods, and merging the analyses of the reception and the message. It also includes indications as to the possibility, or even the social relevance, of the methods for applying those research perspectives to analysing journalism popularising science. Later, I present the results of an analysis of the content of a sample of 500 most read popular science texts available on the New Scientist website. I demonstrate which thematic areas were valued by the readers, and what values are most commonly applied. Further, upon applying a filter in the form of surveys regarding reader preferences, I discuss the main linguistic devices utilised for controlling readers’ attention. The shaping of the hierarchy of importance of items of news is the result of a dynamic interaction between (1) the thematic priorities and discursive strategies of imposing elite representations of science within media agenda, and (2) the means of negotiating order and values of specific content, which are correlated with readers’ preferences, both in terms of the content and the form of providing popular scientific information.
The sender-receiver relationship as moderator of the persuasive effect in polysemic communication
Authors: Dobrosz-Michiewicz Karolina , Władyka-Łuczak Zofia
Published: February 2018

The article presents the results of an empirical experimental study into the functional aspects of polysemous communication in politics. The analyses of the results have led to the following conclusions in terms of the functional limitations of the application of polysemy in communication (from the point of view of the evaluation of a sender of a polysemous message): a message with a stronger polysemous markedness generated a higher agreement with the sender among respondents,the sender of a more polysemous message was evaluated as more credible, the level of polysemous markedness of a message was irrelevant for the evaluation of the competences of its sender, both for the evaluation of the agreement with the sender, and her/his credibility and competences, the level of the receivers’ awareness in terms of the message’s polysemy was irrelevant; however, the influence of credibility and the evaluation of competences on the agreement with the sender was significant.
Quasi-film commercials. Analysis of selected car manufacturer campaigns
Authors: Barczyk-Sitkowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2018

When seeking original forms of expression, contemporary commercials often reach for the achievements of film making. That is reflected in references to the conventions of certain film genres, and the references to particular films. The goal of the article was to present selected examples of the relationships between commercials and film, which can be found in car manufacturer advertising campaigns (Toyota, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz). The analysis of the gathered study material enabled me to identify two forms of quasi-film commercials: a TV spot and a short film.
ESENSI WAHYU DAN ILMU PENGETAHUAN
Authors: Baiti Rosita , Harith Muhammad
Published: February 2018

This study discusses the related of revelation with science. Reviewing revelation does not mean ignoring the study in the perspective of science, because in the revelation itself is found so many verses that encourage human beings to conduct thinking activities in reviewing everything especially the universe for the creation of a civilized life. Science has indeed contributed greatly to the welfare of  live and life, but it is realized that the results of science especially concerning truths that have a high value can not be obtained. Therefore, the information of revelation becomes important and needed by humans in addition to cover the weaknesses of science, but also as a guide to life for the happiness of the world and the hereafter.
DAKWAH MEDIASI: PERSPEKTIF SEJARAH ISLAM
Authors: Yakub M
Published: February 2018

This review discusses mediation as part of dakwah media. The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of mediation dakwah in overcoming various problems of the ummah. Using the historical analysis approach, this study tries to explore how the role of mediation dakwah in overcoming the conflicts that occur as part of the problems of the ummah. Dakwah is a way in the way to spread the teachings of Islam, with Islamic dakwah can be felt until the world. But in the process of dakwah sometimes encounter frequent clashes and obstacles, one of them in handling horizontal conflict and vertical conflict amid society, from ideology problem, understanding and even mutual thinking. This is where the need for mediation in the world of dakwah. We need to understand mediation to mediate or dispute resolution through mediate called mediators. For that mediation system, look for problem solving through mediator. The explanation of mediation is one of conflict resolution alternatives as a breakthrough on traditional settlement methods through litigation.
Günlük Kullanım Ürünlerinin Sol El Kullanıma Uygunluğu
Authors: Boratav Olcay , Gürdal Nur
Published: February 2018

      Bu çalışmanın amacı, sol el kullanımı

dünya nüfusunun yaklaşık %10’ luk bir bölümünü oluştururken, sağ el kullanımına

oranla geri planda kalmasının nedenlerini ve günlük kullanım eşyalarının sol el

kullanımına uygunluğunu incelemektir.        Araştırmanın amaç ve önemi belirlendikten

sonra, primitif dönem ve dinlerde sağ ve sol kavramından başlanarak, bilimsel

olarak sağ ve sol el kullanımı, toplumsal çekinceler ve sol el kullanan

çocukların eğitimine yansımaları araştırılmıştır. Elde edilen göstergeler

doğrultusunda tasarım, ürün-kullanıcı ilişkileri, evrensel tasarım kavramları

ele alınmış günlük kullanım ürünlerinin sol el kullanımına uygunluğu ve

kullanıcıların yaşadıkları zorluklar karşısında geliştirilen özel üretim

ürünler değerlendirilerek kavramsal çerçeve oluşturulmuştur.        Sonuç olarak; primitif dönemden günümüze,

sol kavramı ve sol el kullanımı farklılık olarak algılanmaktadır. Yapılan

birçok bilimsel araştırma göstermektedir ki; gerek çevresel gerek kalıtımsal

nedenlerle şekillenen el tercihi, sağ el kullanımı kadar, sol el kullanımı da

normal bir durumdur. El kullanımının belirginleştiği dönemden itibaren aile de

başlayan, okulda devam eden eğitim sürecinde, çocukların farklı bir el

kullanımına sahip olduklarını anlamaları ve çoğu günlük kullanım ürünlerinde

yaşadıkları zorluklar dikkat çekmektedir. İlerleyen dönemlerde bu durum

farklılığı kabullenme ve ürünlerin sol el kullanımına uygun olup olmamasına

bağlı olarak ürünü tercih etmek ya da etmemek yönünde şekillenmektedir.        Bu noktada; bir ürünün fikir olarak

ortaya çıkışından itibaren kullanıcıyla kurduğu iletişim iyi ya da kötü yönde

gelişim göstermektedir. Sol el kullanımına uygun olmayan ürünlerin,

kullanıcıların karşılaştıkları sorunlar göz önüne alınarak yeniden şekillenmesi

söz konusudur. Günümüzde özel üretim adı altında sol el kullanımına uygun

ürünler piyasada bulunmaktadır. Ancak her an her yerde ulaşılabilirliği

yaygınlaşmış durumda değildir. Sadece bu ürünlerin bulunduğu mağazalar,

internet üzerinden satış yapan siteler ve markaların özel üretim ürünleri

olarak kullanıcıya erişim amaçlanmaktadır. Fakat tanıtım ve reklamın yeterli

düzeyde olmaması kullanıcıya erişim açısından bir engel teşkil etmektedir.  

      Yapılan araştırma ve incelemeler sonucu,

bu tarz erişimin kullanıcı arz- talep ilişkilerini yeterli düzeyde

karşılayamadığı ortaya çıkmıştır.
Uso de reducción de daños y gravedad psicopatológica y médica en pacientes en programa de mantenimiento con metadona
Authors: Martínez-Luna Nieves Gudelia , Rodríguez-Cintas Laia , Esojo Abderraman , Palma-Álvarez Raúl Felipe , Robles-Martínez María , Grau-López Lara , Perea Marta , Roncero Carlos
Published: February 2018

Los programas de mantenimiento con metadona (PMM) para el tratamiento de la dependencia a opiáceos han demostrado elevada eficacia, siendo los más utilizados en la actualidad. La Reducción de Daños (REDAN) se refiere a tratamientos y abordajes complementarios en personas con graves dificultades para la abstinencia y conductas de riesgo. El objetivo del presente trabajo es comparar pacientes en PMM que utilizan servicios REDAN (PMM-REDAN) versus pacientes en PMM que no utilizan servicios REDAN (PMM-NO REDAN). Se incluyó un total de 143 pacientes en PMM (PMM-REDAN = 42, PMM-NO REDAN = 101) y se realizó un subanálisis de los menores de 45 años (n = 116; 38 PMM-REDAN, 78 PMM-NO REDAN). Se hizo una evaluación de datos socio-demográficos, EuropASI, SCID-I y SCID-II. Los pacientes PMM-REDAN son más jóvenes, utilizan la vía parenteral y presentan trastornos de personalidad Clúster B comórbidos a la adicción. Los PMM-NO REDAN consumen más por vía fumada y tienen dosis bajas de metadona. Los menores de 45 años PMM-REDAN son más jóvenes, tienen mayor prevalencia de enfermedades hepáticas, utilizan más la vía parenteral, tienen un consumo de drogas más grave y menos soporte socio-familiar en las subescalas EUROP-ASI que los menores de 45 años PMM-NO REDAN. En conclusión, los pacientes PMM-REDAN son más jóvenes, reciben dosis mayores de metadona y utilizan vías de mayor riesgo, hecho que implica un inicio temprano en prácticas de consumo de riesgo, mayor tiempo de exposición a la heroína, con consecuencias de mayor gravedad de la adicción, mayor comorbilidad infecciosa, médica y psiquiátrica, siendo un grupo vulnerable y con pronóstico desfavorable.
Development and Validation of the Marijuana Motives Measure Short Form
Authors: Mezquita Laura , Ruiz-Valero Lucía , Martínez-Gómez Naiara , Ibáñez Manuel I. , Ortet Generós
Published: February 2018

Marijuana motives are a proximal variable to marijuana use. This research aimed to adapt and validate the short form of the Marijuana Motives Measure (MMM; Simons, Correia, Carey, y Borsari, 1998), the MMM SF, in Spanish.  The sample comprised 232 participants (mean age = 25.11 (7.58), 50.43% males) who had tried marijuana at least once in their lifetime. Item and Rasch analyses were performed to choose the final pool of 15 items. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) showed an adequate 5-factor structure (S-BX2(80) = 121.30, p = .002; NNFI = .944; CFI = .958; IFI = .959; MFI = .915; RMSEA = .047(0.029, 0.063); AIC = -38.70), and the multi-group CFA between males and females showed acceptable fit indices (S-BX2(160) = 230.01, p = .000; NNFI = .900; CFI = .924; IFI = .927; MFI = .860; RMSEA = .062(.043, .078); AIC = -89.99). The questionnaire indicated metric (S-BX2diff (15) = 13.61, p = .556)), scalar (S-BX2diff (15) = 23.15, p = .081)) and error measurement invariance (S-BX2diff (15) = 8.65, p = .895)) between gender groups. The internal consistencies and ordinal omega of the scales were between .79 and .90. In the regression analysis, enhancement, coping and low conformity motives predicted frequency and quantity of marijuana smoked. The best predictor of frequency and quantity consumed during the heaviest smoking period was enhancement, while coping and, to a lesser extent, low conformity, were the only predictors of cannabis-related problems when marijuana frequency and quantity were controlled for.  The MMM SF shows adequate psychometric properties and is a suitable instrument to assess marijuana motives, especially during time-limited sessions.
Creación y estudio de las propiedades psicométricas del cuestionario de socialización parental TXP
Authors: Benito Ana , Calvo Gema , Real-López Matías , Gallego María José , Francés Sonia , Turbi Ángel , Haro Gonzalo
Published: February 2018

El estilo parental de socialización se relaciona con trastornos de conducta (TC) y trastornos relacionados con sustancias (TRS) en adolescentes, con diferencias según el contexto cultural. Se diseñó mediante método Delphi un cuestionario con dos versiones (Cuestionario de socialización parental TXP-A para adolescentes y TXP-C para cuidador principal) para evaluar en población española las prácticas de socialización parental relacionadas con TC y TRS. Se validó en una muestra comunitaria de 631 adolescentes entre 14 y 16 años y sus cuidadores. Los resultados recomiendan un cuestionario TXP-A de 29 ítems y estructura bifactorial: afecto-comunicación y control-estructura, mostrando alta fiabilidad interna (alfa de Cronbach=0,89) y test-retest (coeficiente de correlación intraclase=0,94). Ambos factores correlacionan con TRS (r=0,273; p<0,001) y con la mayoría de las dimensiones psicopatológicas estudiadas. La puntuación total y afecto-comunicación se relacionan con el trastorno disocial (t=3,259; p=0,001) y su gravedad (r=-0,119; p=0,003). La fiabilidad interjueces entre adolescentes y cuidadores es baja, en parte porque el TXP-C, de 16 ítems, presenta una estructura bifactorial diferente: afecto-comunicación y valores prosociales. La fiabilidad interna (alfa de Cronbach= 0,87) y test-retest (coeficiente de correlación intraclase=0,94) del TXP-C son altas. La puntuación total y afecto-comunicación se relacionan con el trastorno disocial (t=2,586; p=0,010) pero no discrimina según el TRS. En conclusión, el cuestionario TXP-A para adolescentes parece un instrumento fiable, válido y sin sesgos que evalúa la percepción de las prácticas de socialización parental, relacionando mayores puntuaciones en afecto-comunicación y control-estructura con menor psicopatología y consumo de alcohol y drogas. El TXP-C también parece fiable y sin sesgos, pero muestra menos evidencias de validez respecto al consumo de sustancias y la psicopatología.
Exploring the Potential of Camber Control to Improve Vehicles’ Energy Efficiency during Cornering
Authors: Sun Peikun , Stensson Trigell Annika , Drugge Lars , Jerrelind Jenny , Jonasson Mats
Published: February 2018

Actively controlling the camber angle to improve energy efficiency has recently gained interest due to the importance of reducing energy consumption and the driveline electrification trend that makes cost-efficient implementation of actuators possible. To analyse how much energy that can be saved with camber control, the effect of changeing the camber angles on the forces and moments of the tyre under different driving conditions should be considered. In this paper, Magic Formula tyre models for combined slip and camber are used for simulation of energy analysis. The components of power loss during cornering are formulated and used to explain the influence that camber angles have on the power loss. For the studied driving paths and the assumed driver model, the simulation results show that active camber control can have considerable influence on power loss during cornering. Different combinations of camber angles are simulated, and a camber control algorithm is proposed and verified in simulation. The results show that the camber controller has very promising application prospects for energy-efficient cornering.