bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Role for Androgens in Epithelial Proliferation and Formation of Glands in the Mouse Uterus
Authors: Simitsidellis Ioannis , Gibson Douglas A. , Cousins Fiona L. , Esnal-Zufiaurre Arantza , Saunders Philippa T. K.
Published: March 2016

The endometrium consists of stromal and epithelial compartments (luminal and glandular) with distinct functions in the regulation of uterine homeostasis. Ovarian sex steroids, namely 17β-estradiol and progesterone, play essential roles in modulating uterine cell proliferation, stromal-epithelial cross-talk and differentiation in preparation for pregnancy. The effect of androgens on uterine function remains poorly understood. The current study investigated the effect of the non-aromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on mouse endometrial function. Ovx female mice were given a single sc injection (short treatment) or 7 daily injections (long treatment) of vehicle alone (5% ethanol, 0.4% methylcellulose) or vehicle with the addition of 0.2 mg DHT (n=8/group) and a single injection of bromodeoxyuridine 2 hours prior to tissue recovery. Treatment with DHT increased uterine weight, the area of the endometrial compartment and immunoexpression of the androgen receptor in the luminal and glandular epithelium. Treatment-dependent proliferation of epithelial cells was identified by immunostaining for MKi67 and bromodeoxyuridine. Real-time PCR identified significant DHT-dependent changes in the concentrations of mRNAs encoded by genes implicated in the regulation of the cell cycle (Wee1, Ccnd1, Rb1) and stromal-epithelial interactions (Wnt4, Wnt5a, Wnt7a, Cdh1, Vcl, Igf1, Prl8, Prlr) as well as a striking effect on the number of endometrial glands. This study has revealed a novel role for androgens in regulating uterine function with an effect on the glandular compartment of the endometrium. This previously unrecognized role for androgens has implications for our understanding of the role of androgens in regulation of endometrial function and fertility in women.
Association of Mutations in SLC12A1 Encoding the NKCC2 Cotransporter With Neonatal Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Li Dong , Tian Lifeng , Hou Cuiping , Kim Cecilia E. , Hakonarson Hakon , Levine Michael A.
Published: March 2016

Context:

Primary hyperparathyroidism with hypercalciuria has not been described in the newborn period.

Objective:

Our objectives are to identify the genetic basis for neonatal primary hyperparathyroidism in a family with 2 affected children.

Subjects:

An African American boy presenting with mild neonatal primary hyperparathyroidism and hypercalciuria was evaluated at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. His older brother with neonatal primary hyperparathyroidism had died in infancy of multiple organ failure.

Methods:

We collected clinical and biochemical data and performed exome sequencing analysis on DNA from the patient and his unaffected mother after negative genetic testing for known causes of primary hyperparathyroidism.

Results:

Exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing disclosed 2 heterozygous mutations, c.1883C>A, p.(A628D) and c.2786_2787insC, p.(T931fsX10), in the SLC12A1 gene, which was previously implicated in antenatal type 1 Bartter syndrome. Sanger sequencing confirmed the 2 mutations in the proband and his deceased brother; both parents were heterozygous for different mutations and an unaffected sister was homozygous for wild-type alleles.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate a previously unrecognized association between neonatal primary hyperparathyroidism and mutation of SLC12A1, the cause of antenatal Bartter syndrome type 1, and suggest that the loss of sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter-2 cotransporter activity influences parathyroid gland function.
Redistribution and Social Insurance
Authors: Golosov Mikhail , Troshkin Maxim , Tsyvinski Aleh
Published: March 2016

We study optimal redistribution and insurance in a life-cycle economy with private idiosyncratic shocks. We characterize Pareto optima, show the forces determining optimal labor distortions, and derive closed form expressions for their limiting behavior. The labor distortions for high-productivity shocks are determined by the labor elasticity and the higher moments of the shock process; the labor distortions for low-productivity shocks are determined by the autocorrelation of the shock process, redistributive objectives, and past distortions. In a model calibrated using newly available estimates of idiosyncratic shocks, the labor distortions are U-shaped and the savings distortions generally increase in current earnings. (JEL D82, D91, H21, H23, I38, J22, J24)
Consumption Inequality and Family Labor Supply
Authors: Blundell Richard , Pistaferri Luigi , Saporta-Eksten Itay
Published: March 2016

We examine the link between wage and consumption inequality using a life-cycle model incorporating consumption and family labor supply decisions. We derive analytical expressions for the dynamics of consumption, hours, and earnings of two earners in the presence of correlated wage shocks, nonseparability, progressive taxation, and asset accumulation. The model is estimated using panel data for hours, earnings, assets, and consumption. We focus on family labor supply as an insurance mechanism and find strong evidence of smoothing of permanent wage shocks. Once family labor supply, assets, and taxes are properly accounted for there is little evidence of additional insurance. (JEL D12, D14, D91, J22, J31)
Poverty and Economic Decision-Making: Evidence from Changes in Financial Resources at Payday
Authors: Carvalho Leandro S. , Meier Stephan , Wang Stephanie W.
Published: March 2016

We study the effect of financial resources on decision-making. Low-income US households are randomly assigned to receive an online survey before or after payday. The survey collects measures of cognitive function and administers risk and intertemporal choice tasks. The study design generates variation in cash, checking and savings balances, and expenditures. Before-payday participants behave as if they are more present-biased when making intertemporal choices about monetary rewards but not when making intertemporal choices about nonmonetary real-effort tasks. Nor do we find before-after differences in risk-taking, the quality of decision-making, the performance in cognitive function tasks, or in heuristic judgments. (JEL C83, D14, D81, D91, I32)
The identity of Acarospora xanthophana (Fungi: Ascomycota) and a description of A. congregata sp. nov. to accommodate a widely distributed saxicolous species occurring in the higher elevations of South America
Authors: Knudsen Kerry , Flakus Adam
Published: March 2016

Acarospora rhabarbarina Hue, published as a replacement name for the later homonym Lecanora bella Nyl., is an illegitimate superfluous name because Nylander had previously published his own replacement name, L. xanthophana (≡ A. xanthophana (Nyl.) Jatta). Furthermore, Hue, Magnusson and other later authors misapplied the name A. xanthophana to a common South American taxon, which is described here as A. congregata, the epithet referring to the usual arrangement of the apothecia in groups in large areoles. Lecanora ochrophana Nyl., a synonym of A. xanthophana, is lectotypified. The question of conservation of names, including an explanation as to why it is not proposed in this case, is discussed.
Analysis of the cosmopolitan buckthorn genera Frangula and Rhamnus s.l. supports the description of a new genus, Ventia
Authors: Hauenschild Frank , Favre Adrien , Salazar Gerardo A. , Muellner-Riehl Alexandra N.
Published: March 2016

The taxonomy of the species‐rich and widespread Rhamnus s.l. is partially unresolved. While Frangula is morphologically similar to Rhamnus but separate according to previous molecular studies, the delimitation of sections within Rhamnus s.str., including the large Rhamnus sect. Rhamnus, remains unclear. In order to clarify the taxonomy of Rhamnus, we present the largest molecular dataset available to date, including ITS and trnL‐trnF sequences of 103 species. fasttree‐like searches, maximum likelihood estimates and Bayesian analyses were performed and compared. Our results are congruent across all analyses and show that the current subdivision of Rhamnus s.1. should be extended from two (Frangula, Rhamnus) to four distinct genera. First, we exclude six species from Rhamnus and attribute them to the new genus Ventia. Second, we raise the entire Rhamnus sect. Oreoherzogia to generic level. Finally, we confirm the monophyly of Rhamnus sect. Alaternus and R. sect. Rhamnus within Rhamnus s.str.
Care Certificate Standards 9 and 10: mental health, dementia and learning disabilities; and safeguarding adults
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: March 2016

In all spheres of your work, you will meet people with mental health problems, dementia and learning disability and you will be expected to have an awareness of these issues. This article discusses two of the care standards: standard 9, mental health, dementia, and learning disabilities. Those with mental health conditions, dementia and learning disability will have unique needs. The HCA and AP must consider the individual from a physical, psychological and social perspective.

The standard that considers the safeguarding of adults is standard 10. A brief discussion of the key issues associated with mental health, dementia and learning disabilities and safeguarding adults is provided.
Which mesh or graft? Prosthetic devices for abdominal wall reconstruction
Authors: Abid Shazia , El-Hayek Kevin
Published: March 2016

This article reviews the ever-increasing number of prosthetic devices – both synthetic mesh and biologic grafts – now in use for abdominal wall reconstruction. It also introduces a novel hybrid synthetic/biologic graft (Zenapro) and suture passer device (Novapass).
A Robust Weak Galerkin Finite Element Method for Linear Elasticity with Strong Symmetric Stresses
Authors: Chen Gang , Xie Xiaoping
Published: March 2016

This paper proposes
and analyzes a weak Galerkin (WG) finite element method with strong symmetric stresses for two- and three-dimensional linear elasticity problems on conforming or nonconforming polygon/polyhedral meshes. The WG method uses piecewise-polynomial approximations of degrees k (

≥
1

${\geq 1}$

) for the stress,

k
+
1

${k+1}$

for the displacement, and k for the displacement trace on the inter-element boundaries.
It is shown to be equivalent to a hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin (HDG) finite element scheme. We show that the WG methods are robust in the sense that the
derived a priori error estimates are optimal and uniform with respect to the Lamé constant λ.
Numerical experiments confirm the theoretical results.
The space of compact self-shrinking solutions to the Lagrangian mean curvature flow in ℂ2{\mathbb{C}^{2}}
Authors: Chen Jingyi , Ma John Man Shun
Published: March 2016

Let

F
n

F_{n}

: (Σ,

h
n

h_{n}

)

→

\to

ℂ
2

\mathbb{C}^{2}

be a sequence of conformally immersed Lagrangian self-shrinkers with a uniform area upper bound to the mean curvature flow, and suppose that the sequence of metrics

{

\{

h
n

h_{n}

}

\}

converges smoothly to a Riemannian metric h. We show that a subsequence of

{

\{

F
n

F_{n}

}

\}

converges smoothly to a branched conformally immersed Lagrangian self-shrinker

F
∞

F_{\infty}

: (Σ, h)

→

\to

ℂ
2

\mathbb{C}^{2}

. When the area bound is less than 16π, the limit

F
∞

{F_{\infty}}

is an embedded torus. When the genus of Σ is one, we can drop the assumption on convergence

h
n

h_{n}

→

\to

h. When the genus of Σ is zero, we show that there is no branched immersion of Σ as a Lagrangian self-shrinker, generalizing the rigidity result of [21] in dimension two by allowing branch points.
d-orthogonality and q-Askey-scheme
Authors: Lamiri Imed , Ouni Abdelwaheb
Published: March 2016

In this work, by solving a d-Geronimus problem we introduce new examples of basic hypergeometric d-orthogonal polynomials which are useful
to construct a similar table to the q-Askey-scheme in the context of d-orthogonality.
For d = 1, this leads to a characterization theorem involving all polynomials belonging to the q-Askey-scheme, except the continuous q-Hermite ones.
The Corrosion Behaviors of the Cerium Conversion Coatings on the Zinc Coating in a 5 % NaCl Solution
Authors: Zhang Jianghong , Meng Binfang , Wang Xinying , Li Wei
Published: March 2016

The present paper investigated the impact of cerium on the corrosion resistance of zinc coating in a 5 % NaCl solution. Electrochemistry was used to measure the electrochemical parameters to compare the corrosion resistance of the zinc coating with that of the cerium conversion coating on the galvanized layer. SEM/EDS and XRD were adopted to analyze the appearance and phases of corrosion products of the cerium conversion coating and to probe the impact of cerium on the corrosion behavior of zinc coating in the Cl– media. The results showed that the cerium conversion coating formed on the zinc coating increased the zinc’s corrosion resistance effectively, conversion coating with lower cerium content protected the substrate poorly, resulting in easy erosion of the zinc coating in the Cl– media. The corrosion products mainly consist of complexes, such as Zn(OH)xCly and Ce(OH)xCly.
Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Optimal Placement and Sizing of Static Var Compensator in Large-Scale Power Systems
Authors: Nguyen Khai Phuc , Fujita Goro , Dieu Vo Ngoc
Published: March 2016

This paper presents an application of Cuckoo search algorithm to determine optimal location and sizing of Static VAR Compensator. Cuckoo search algorithm is a modern heuristic technique basing Cuckoo species’ parasitic strategy. The Lévy flight has been employed to generate random Cuckoo eggs. Moreover, the objective function is a multiobjective problem, which minimizes loss power, voltage deviation and investment cost of Static VAR Compensator while satisfying other operating constraints in power system. Cuckoo search algorithm is evaluated on three case studies and compared with the Teaching-learning-based optimization, Particle Swarm optimization and Improved Harmony search algorithm. The results show that Cuckoo search algorithm is better than other optimization techniques and its performance is also better.
Real classes of finite special unitary groups
Authors: Schaeffer Fry Amanda A. , Vinroot C. Ryan
Published: March 2016

We classify all real and strongly real classes of the finite special unitary group

SU
n

⁢

(
q
)

${\mathrm{SU}_{n}(q)}$

. Unless

q
≡

3

⁢

(

mod
⁡
4

)

${q\equiv 3\;(\operatorname{mod}4)}$

and

n
|
4

${n|4}$

, the classification of real classes is similar to that of the finite special linear group

SL
n

⁢

(
q
)

${\mathrm{SL}_{n}(q)}$

. We relate strong reality in

SU
n

⁢

(
q
)

${\mathrm{SU}_{n}(q)}$

to strong reality in the finite special orthogonal groups

SO
n
±

⁢

(
q
)

${\mathrm{SO}^{\pm}_{n}(q)}$

, and we classify real and strongly real classes in the last case for the group

SO
n
±

⁢

(
q
)

${\mathrm{SO}_{n}^{\pm}(q)}$

, when q is odd and

n
≡

2

⁢

(

mod
⁡
4

)

${n\equiv 2\;(\operatorname{mod}4)}$

.
Feit numbers and p′${p^{\prime}}$-degree characters
Authors: Vallejo Rodríguez Carolina
Published: March 2016

Suppose that χ is an irreducible complex character of a finite group G
and let

f
χ

${f_{\chi}}$

be the smallest integer n such that
the cyclotomic field

ℚ
n

${\mathbb{Q}_{n}}$

contains the values of χ.
Let p be a prime, and assume that

χ
∈

Irr
⁡

(
G
)

${\chi\in{\operatorname{Irr}}(G)}$

has degree not divisible by p. We show that if G is solvable and

χ
⁢

(
1
)

${\chi(1)}$

is odd,
then there exists

g
∈

𝐍
G

⁢

(
P
)

/

P
′

${g\in\mathbf{N}_{G}(P)/P^{\prime}}$

with

o
⁢

(
g
)

=

f
χ

${o(g)=f_{\chi}}$

, where

P
∈

Syl
p

⁢

(
G
)

${P\in\mathrm{Syl}_{p}(G)}$

. In particular,

f
χ

${f_{\chi}}$

divides

|

𝐍
G

(
P
)

:

P
′

|

${|\mathbf{N}_{G}(P):P^{\prime}|}$

.
Experimental evidence concerning the different behavior of energy and exergy performance indicators of refrigeration systems in transient regimes
Authors: Vasilescu Elena Eugenia , Feidt Michel , Boussehain Rahal , Dobrovicescu Alexandru
Published: March 2016

This article presents the results obtained from an
energy-exergy analysis of a vapor compression refrigeration system during
induced transient regimes.
Using experimental data, exergy destruction as a
function of time under the influence of some factors that perturb the
stationary regime, such as deactivation of piston, variation of mass flow
rate and initial temperature of cooled fluid, and diminution of the
compressor rotation speed, was calculated. Under the perturbation, an
antagonistic increase in the coefficient of performance and a decrease in
exergy efficiency were noted.
Rate constants, timescales, and free energy barriers
Authors: Salamon Peter , Wales David , Segall Anca , Lai Yi-An , Schön J. Christian , Hoffmann Karl Heinz , Andresen Bjarne
Published: March 2016

The traditional connection between rate constants and free energy landscapes is extended to define effective free energy landscapes relevant on any chosen timescale. Although the Eyring–Polanyi transition state theory specifies a fixed timescale of

τ
=
h
/

k
B

T

${\tau =h/k_{\mathrm {B}}T}$

, we introduce instead the timescale of interest for the system in question, e.g. the observation time. The utility of drawing such landscapes using a variety of timescales is illustrated by the example of Holliday junction resolution. The resulting free energy landscapes are easier to interpret, clearly reveal observation time dependent effects like coalescence of short-lived states, and reveal features of interest for the specific system more clearly.
Recent Vs. Historical Seismicity Analysis For Banat Seismic Region (Western Part Of Romania)
Authors: Oros Eugen , Diaconescu Mihai
Published: March 2016

The present day seismic activity from a region reflects the active tectonics and can confirm the seismic potential of the seismogenic sources as they are modelled using the historical seismicity. This paper makes a comparative analysis of the last decade seismicity recorded in the Banat Seismic Region (western part of Romania) and the historical seismicity of the region (Mw≥4.0). Four significant earthquake sequences have been recently localized in the region, three of them nearby the city of Timisoara (January 2012 and March 2013) and the fourth within Hateg Basin, South Carpathians (October 2013). These sequences occurred within the epicentral areas of some strong historical earthquakes (Mw≥5.0). The main events had some macroseismic effects on people up to some few kilometers from the epicenters. Our results update the Romanian earthquakes catalogue and bring new information along the local seismic hazard sources models and seismotectonics.
Problem gambling and drinking among Finnish women
Authors: Järvinen-Tassopoulos Johanna
Published: March 2016

Aim

This qualitative study expands on female problem gambling by examining short online narratives written by Finnish women. Problem gambling is analysed within the familial context in order to discover gendered roles and practices, and in relation to substance use and abuse in women's lives.

Design

Two sets of qualitative data were used in this study. The first set was collected from two online discussion forums, and the second set was extracted from an online counselling service data in 2008. Chosen messages formed short narratives of women's problem gambling trajectory (51 cases). The data were analysed in accordance with the content analysis method.

Results

Women had started gambling either in adolescence or in adulthood. Most of the women played on slot machines or gambled online. The lack of coping skills, stressful events in life and troubled relationships made the women more vulnerable to gambling harms and other addictions. In some couples, partners were either drinking or gambling. This made the women's lives even more complicated, because they could not count on their partners' help and support. The women tried to hide the consequences of their problem gambling for fear of losing their significant others.

Conclusions

Female gambling and female problem gambling are complex concepts influenced by social, cultural and political factors. This study has shown in its limited framework that female problem gambling is related to the gambling environment, the social acceptance of gambling and the regulation of gambling operations within the place of jurisdiction.
Factors Influencing Attitudes Towards the Use of CRM’s Analytical Tools in Organizations
Authors: Šebjan Urban , Bobek Samo , Tominc Polona
Published: March 2016

Background and Purpose: Information solutions for analytical customer relationship management CRM (aCRM IS) that include the use of analytical tools are becoming increasingly important, due organizations’ need for knowledge of their customers and the ability to manage big data. The objective of the research is, therefore, to determine how the organizations’ orientations (process, innovation, and technology) as critical organizational factors affect the attitude towards the use of the analytical tools of aCRM IS.

Design/Methodology/Approach: To measure the orientation of the organization (process, innovation, and technology), we redesigned the existing scale, which was validated using exploratory factor analysis. In the next phase, we created a model by which we examined the impact of the organization’s stance in relation to the use of the analytical tools of aCRM IS, where we used multiple regression analysis. The model was verified on a sample of Slovenian Organizations (n=105), which use the analytical tools of aCRM IS for analyzing the data they have on their customers and business partners.

Results: In the study we found that all critical factors of the organization, specifically process, technology, and innovation orientation, have a positive impact on the attitudes towards using the analytical tools of aCRM IS. Innovation orientation is particularly important and has the strongest influence on the attitude towards using the analytical tools of aCRM IS. We found that innovation orientation on new ideas, methods, and approaches has the strongest effect, followed by the impact of innovation orientation on acceptance of novelty.

Conclusion: The more innovation-, technology-, and process-oriented organizations are, the more positive their attitude towards using the analytical tools of aCRM IS. The study is particularly important for organizations that are introducing an aCRM IS into their business system.
Bedarfsgerechte Versorgung – Ein Überblick gängiger Definitionen
Authors: Scholten Nadine , Karbach Ute , Pfaff Holger
Published: March 2016

Das Gesetz zur Verbesserung der Versorgungsstrukturen in der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung (GKV-VStG) zielt auf die Sicherung einer wohnortnahen, flächendeckenden und bedarfsgerechten medizinischen Versorgung. Das Ziel ist somit, das Versorgungsangebot am Bedarf auszurichten. Der Begriff „Bedarf“ wird im Bereich der Gesundheitsversorgung sehr häufig genutzt und dabei unterschiedlich definiert. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, unterschiedliche Aspekte von „Bedarf“ aufzuzeigen und Handlungsfelder zu identifizieren.
Schulunfälle im regionalen Vergleich
Authors: Dieterich Sven , Hofmann Rüdiger , Hübner Horst
Published: March 2016

In Deutschland verunfallen jährlich 10,5% der rund 8,5 Mio. Schüler an allgemeinbildenden Schulen so, dass sie ärztlich behandelt werden müssen. Beim Vergleich zwischen den Bundesländern sind deutliche regionale Unterschiede zu beobachten, die einem Gefälle von Nordost nach Südwest folgen. Im Rahmen eines deutschlandweiten Forschungsprojektes sind assoziierte Faktoren identifiziert worden, die einen Teil der regionalen Differenzen erklären können, jedoch auch den Einfluss komplexer Zusammenhänge individueller und kontextbezogener Faktoren nahelegen.
Kleinräumige und kommunal organisierte Bedarfsplanung als Zukunftskonzept
Authors: Greß Stefan , Stegmüller Klaus
Published: March 2016

Die ambulante hausärztliche Versorgung in Deutschland ist durch disparate Versorgungsstrukturen gekennzeichnet. Viele ländliche Regionen haben mit Unterversorgung zu kämpfen. Gleichzeitig sind attraktive Ballungsregionen eher überversorgt. Die zentrale Bedarfsplanung ist nicht in der Lage, diese Gleichzeitigkeit von Über- und Unterversorgung erfolgreich zu bekämpfen. Die Autoren dieses Beitrags plädieren daher für eine regionale Versorgungssteuerung mit einer institutionell und finanziell gestärkten Rolle der Kommunen.
Establishing the fluency gap between native and non-native-speech
Authors: Guz Ewa
Published: March 2016

Although various dimensions of speech fluency have so far generated a great deal of research interest, very few accounts have tackled the issue of the relationship between L1 and L2 fluency. Also, little empirical evidence has been provided to support the claim that language users are more fluent in their mother tongue than in a foreign/second language. This study examines the fluency gap between L1 and L2 fluency using a battery of objectively quantifiable temporal measures of speed and breakdown fluency. It also attempts to identify those temporal fluency variables which are affected by the individual way of speaking rather than the degree of automatisation of speech processing and which underlie oral performance both in L1 and L2. The analysis draws on transcriptions of elicited speech samples in L1 (Polish) and L2 (English).
Vowels in Malacca Portuguese Creole
Authors: Pillai Stefanie , Chan Min En , Baxter Alan Norman
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the vowel system of present day Malacca Portuguese Creole (MPC) or Kristang, based on recordings from interviews with five female native speakers of MPC. A total of 1083 monophthongs were extracted from the recordings. The first and second formants of these vowels were measured and analysed. Considerable variation was found within and between the speakers in the way each of the vowels was produced. There were also noticeable overlaps between /i/ and /e/ suggesting that they were being used interchangeably. Based on the variation in the way that vowels are produced, and the overlaps between vowels, the findings suggest the possibility of phonological instability of this endangered language.
The role of curriculum design and teaching materials in pronunciation learning
Authors: Alghazo Sharif
Published: March 2016

This paper aims to provide insights into the role of curriculum design and teaching materials in the development of English pronunciation skills in EFL contexts. One of the main contextual factors negatively affecting the development of pronunciation abilities of EFL learners relates to the ‘often-unchanging’ curriculum design and the ‘blind’ choice of teaching materials without regard to students’ needs and goals. This study utilises structured interviews and focus group discussions (N=2 sessions) to elicit the views of a group (N=71) of third- and fourth-year English-major students at a university college in Saudi Arabia on the appropriateness of the curriculum design and teaching materials to their learning expectations in the area of English pronunciation. The results show that the great majority of students spoke unfavourably about the overall curriculum and teaching materials and considered those to be among the obstacles that they encounter in their learning of English pronunciation. This finding raises the question of curriculum design of English language teaching programs and the extent to which these curricula meet the needs of learners. The study suggests that a reformation of the structure of the curriculum in the study context is urgently needed and that more involvement of students’ perspectives on the design of curricula is of major importance.
Bi2Fe4O9: Structural changes from nano- to micro-crystalline state
Authors: Kirsch Andrea , Murshed M. Mangir , Gaczynski Piotr , Becker Klaus-Dieter , Gesing Thorsten M.
Published: March 2016

Bi2Fe4O9was synthesized using a polyol-mediated method. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) revealed that the as-synthesized sample is nano-crystalline. During heating, the X-ray amorphous powder transformed into a rhombohedral perovskite-type bismuth ferrate followed by a second transformation into mullite-type Bi2Fe4O9at higher temperatures. This transformation was studied atin-situconditions by temperature-dependent XRPD and57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. The57Fe Mössbauer spectra indicate the existence of two Fe3+species at two different octahedrally coordinated sites leading to the conclusion that the as-synthesized powder of the polyol synthesis possesses a disordered (Bi1–xFex)FeO3perovskite structure. Rietveld refinements have unambiguously supported this observation and this results suggest that one third of the Bi3+sites are substituted by Fe3+representing the initial chemical composition. This study has shown that as-synthesized nano-materials are not always similar to the respective micro-crystalline ones.
Maria van der Schaar, G. F. Stout and the Psychological Origins of Analytic Philosophy
Authors: Preti Consuelo
Published: March 2016

Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan, 2013. 174pp. $100 Hardcover. ISBN 978-0-230-24978-3.Reviewed by Consuelo Preti.
Nomenclatural and taxonomic notes in Phymatidium geiselii (Oncidiinae, Orchidaceae)
Authors: Toscano de Brito Antonio L. V. , Royer Carla Adriane , De Camargo Smidt Eric
Published: March 2016

Phymatidium glaziovii is proposed as a new synonym for P. geiselii. A lectotype and an epitype are selected for P. geiselii. Illustrations and taxonomic discussions are also provided. 
Medical rehabilitation in low and middle income countries for adult acquired disability: challenges posed by rapidity of health system change and position on the individualistic-collectivist axis
Authors: Sandin Karl
Published: March 2016

Chronic illness prevalence has rapidly increased in low or middle income countries (LMIC) and with it, the need for medical rehabilitation for adults with acquired conditions that stem from aging and long-term conditions. While Western medical rehabilitation programs have had at least two generations to develop, in LMIC, post-acute health care delivery change has been much more rapid. As a result, there has been little opportunity for models of medical rehabilitation to deliberately emerge in LMIC that reflect societal values. While adaptation of an independence-foremost model of medical rehabilitation may succeed in non-Western societies, there is a risk that adaptation of such a model will be ineffective where many value collectivism more than individualism. The rapid change in medical rehabilitation service delivery in LMIC gives Christian providers and organizations an opportunity to pause and reflect whether the dominant Western medical rehabilitation paradigm serves LMIC cultures and reflects Biblical principles.
Should Christian Global Health Be Distinctive? A Reflection
Authors: Downing Raymond
Published: March 2016

Christian global health is often seen as the overlap of global health activities with Christian motivations, sometimes including evangelism. But is there anything distinctive about Christian global health? Drawing on the insights of Jacques Ellul, this article proposes how Christian global health could be qualitatively different from humanitarian global health.
The call and rise of disability leaders in Uganda: The first Christian-based bachelors program in disability studies and special education at Africa Renewal University
Authors: Hall Ashley A
Published: March 2016

This paper investigates the epidemic that prevails in the lives of persons and families affected by disabilities in developing countries, mainly East Africa and Uganda. Grating data and demography are exposed, along with some of the common dilemmas found in the Ugandan educational systems, churches, and communities, in order to express the palpable realities of families and persons with disabilities. Patrons will discover the features and attributes that constructs the disability studies and special education bachelor’s program at Africa Renewal University, including course listings and course content, and how this program seeks to alleviate some of the major wounds for persons and families affected by disabilities in East Africa, which all contribute to identifying the problem and bringing forth resolution. Lastly, this paper highlights bouyant outcomes, strategies for moving forward, and a scope of the next steps for Christlike front-runners and the souls affected by disabilities subsiding in Uganda and East Africa.
Lancet series on the contribution of faith-based health providers: a call for greater accountability
Authors: Morgan Alison
Published: March 2016

In July 2015 The Lancet published a three paper series on faith based health groups. This commentary summarises each article and suggests three ways forward for faith based health providers to better describe, document and integrate their work within national health systems.
The Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: Current Perspective and Future Role in Prevention and Treatment of Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Anal Cancer
Authors: Mensah Felix A. , Mehta Mudresh R. , Lewis James S. , Lockhart A. Craig
Published: March 2016

The incidences of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related anal cancer and its precursor lesion, anal intraepithelial neoplasia, are rising in the U.S. and globally. Five-year survival rates with current modalities of treatment for anal cancer are generally favorable for localized and regional disease. For metastatic disease, the relative survival rate is poor. Major contributing factors for the increase in anal cancer incidence include increasing receptive anal intercourse (hetero- and homosexual), increasing HPV infections, and longer life expectancy of treated people who are seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus. Because treatment outcomes with systemic therapy in patients with advanced disease are so poor, prevention may be the best approach for reducing disease burden. The association of a major causative agent with anal cancer provides an excellent opportunity for prevention and treatment. The advent of the HPV vaccine for anal cancer prevention and treatment is a significant milestone and has the potential to greatly impact these cancers. The data regarding potential use of the HPV vaccine in anal cancer prevention and treatment are reviewed.
Towards long-term infrastructure system performance
Authors: Blom Carron M. , Guthrie Peter M.
Published: March 2016

Infrastructure is presenting some significant global challenges. One issue is that, while it is often seen as performing well, it tends to do so against only against limited terms of reference and short-term objectives. The available literature suggests that, to date, performance has largely been approached from the point of view of a project, or through addressing latent failures arising from specific sources of shock or failure. In contrast, the literature is sparse in which these matters are examined from the perspective of service-led delivery at the system level (the system comprising assets, projects and networks each at different stages of their life cycle and variously affecting one another as they develop, then age). Yet this is arguably the level relevant to, and the reality of, much of the realm of day-to-day public infrastructure management. This apparent gap in infrastructure research has been explored through a series of interviews that looked at different levels in organisations, sectors and countries. These interviews test the presumption that a problem therefore exists, and sought to identify some of the factors involved. In so doing, this research highlights an issue with the alignment between infrastructure governance and day-to-day operations, specifically the feedforward/feedback mechanisms that span the governance/operational interface.
Urban Gardening and Green Space Governance: Towards New Collaborative Planning Practices
Authors: Nikolaidou Sofia , Klöti Tanja , Tappert Simone , Drilling Matthias
Published: March 2016

In the context of urban densification and central urban areas’ lack of open spaces, new forms of small-scale urban gardening practices have emerged. These gardening practices respond to urban pressures and open new modes of green space governance, presenting alternative and multifunctional ways to manage and revitalise cities. Focusing on the case of Geneva, the article unfolds two levels of discussion. On the one hand—and with reference to the theorist Habermas—it examines how multiple actors with different interests interplay and cooperate with each other in order to negotiate over open space, while discussing implications for local politics and planning. On the other hand, it describes how these negotiations result in new, innovative, and hybrid forms of public green space. The main findings indicate emerging forms of collaboration, partnerships, and governance patterns that involve public and private sectors and increase participation by civil society actors. Cooperation amongst several interested groups and the collective re-invention of public urban spaces increase these spaces’ accessibility for multiple users and actors, as well as present possibilities for alternative and diversified uses and activities. This might underline the hypothesis that future cities will be governed in less formalised ways, and that urban forms will be created through spontaneous, temporary, mobile, and adaptive negotiation processes.
GroFi: Large-scale fiber placement research facility
Authors: Krombholz Christian , Kruse Felix , Wiedemann Martin
Published: March 2016

GroFi is a large research facility operated by the German Aerospace Center’s Center for Lightweight-Production-Technology in Stade. A combination of dierent layup technologies namely (dry) ber placement and tape laying, allows the development and validation of new production technologiesand processes for large-scale composite components. Due to the use of coordinated and simultaneously working layup units a high exibility of the research platform is achieved. This allows the investigation of new materials, technologies and processes on both, small coupons, but also large components such as wing covers or fuselage skins.
On Fluid Dynamics of Freshwater and Seawater in Marine Systems
Authors:   Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Štajduhar Andrija , Lipovac Adriana
Published: March 2016

Interaction between freshwater and seawater can significantly influence marine life and create important productive and dynamic natural habitats, such as estuaries. We study such processes and for this purpose we develop a new mathematical model with the system of coupled nonlinear conservation equations that govern the interaction of the two incompressible fluids with different properties. The system is solved by using implicit operator splitting and mixed finite elements methods. Finally, the numerical scheme has been used to provide simulations of two real world scenarios.
Analiza održivog razvoja turističke destinacije
Authors: Ljubičić Davor
Published: March 2016

Zaštita životne sredine i održivi razvoj važni su za svaku kategoriju i razinu strategija upravljanja razvojem. Uravnotežen razvoj turizma najpotrebniji je destinacijama s već pokazanim problemima ekonomske i socio-kulturne nestabilnosti “masovnoga” turizma. Nedostatak jasnih strategija i vizija razvitka turizma na destinacijama izvanrednih vrednota, ugrozio bi jedno od temeljnih gospodarstava Hrvatske. Rad analizira primjer Dubrovnika, grada UNESCO-ve baštine i pokazuje koliko su postulati održivog turizama i upravljanja destinacijom prepoznati i primijenjeni, u skladu s relevantnim dokumentima “Agende 21”. Time se temelji hipotetički problem kako sačuvati prirodnu i tradicijsku baštinu uz poticanje spektra suvremenog turizma na agendama održivog razvoja destinacije. Povijesna jezgra grada visoko je vrednovan resurs, ali do danas nije adekvatno njime upravljano, što potvrđuju i sama skorašnja upozorenja UNESCO-a, i sve češći prosvjedi građana i kulturne elite. Neučinkovit upravljački model može biti prijetnja iskazana u kaotičnom monokulturnom i monosektorskom razvoju. Nedostatak infrastrukture i loše organizirano lokalno prometovanje, postavljaju upitan dugoročno održiv trend tržišne pozicije i visokog brendiranja vrednota destinacije.
Razvojni tijekovi proizvodnje, tehnologije bojenja i trgovine tekstilom u kontekstu pomorsko - trgovačkih puteva Dubrovnika
Authors:   Department of Art and Restauration, University of Dubrovnik, Jemo Danijela , Parac-Osterman Đurđica
Published: March 2016

Zbog jedinstvenog zemljopisnog položaja Dubrovnik je bio spona između Istoka i Zapada, te vrlo važno trgovačko središte na putu razgranate trgovinske mreže tkanina i prirodnih bojila, koja se održala sve do druge polovice XIX. st. Utvrđivanjem svih činjenica i razvojnih tijekova koji su utjecali na proizvodnju, tehnologiju bojenja i trgovinu tekstilom u povijesnom Dubrovniku, moguće je razumjeti vrijednost i značaj sačuvanih tekstilnih artefakata, kao jedinstvenih primjeraka naše kulturne baštine. Identifikacija bojila u sklopu doktorske disertacije (Jemo, 2014.) provedena je na povijesnom tekstilu XVIII. i XIX. stoljeća iz Dubrovnika, na odabranim reprezentativnim arhivskim primjercima. Dobiveni rezultati fizikalno-kemijskim metodama istraživanja uspoređeni su s podatcima prikupljenim na osnovu povijesnih i arhivskih istraživanja proizvodnje, tehnologije bojenja i trgovine tekstilom u povijesnom Dubrovniku.
Metode operacijskih istraživanja u kaleidoskopu obrazovnih i znanstvenih industrija
Authors:   Ekonomski fakultet, Sveučilište u Rijeci, Zelenika Ratko
Published: March 2016

U globalnim i znanstvenim industrijama općenito, a posebice u globalnim matematičkim industrijama „proizvedeno“ je, afirmirano i verificirano svega dvadesetak univerzalnih matematičkih metoda operacijskih istraživanja. Neposredno i/ili posredno utjecale su na optimizaciju procesa proizvodnje mnogobrojnih materijalnih i nematerijalnih proizvoda. To je, međutim, premalo u odnosu prema stvarnim potrebama. S tim u vezi potrebno je dugoročno i sustavno promišljati „proizvodnju“, afirmaciju i verifikaciju novih i/ili inoviranih funkcionalnih, specijalističkih, odnosno promijenjenih matematičkih metoda operacijskih istraživanja prema kriterijima koji su istaknuti u ovoj znanstvenoj raspravi. Takve bi metode operacijskih istraživanja morale biti u neposrednoj funkciji rješavanja aktualnih gospodarskih i društvenih problema te stvaranja najvažnijih pretpostavki za nastajanje, održivi rast i razvoj društva znanja i društva blagostanja.
Analysis the farm-level diversification and market position of the Hungarian organic products
Authors: Nagyné Pércsi Kinga , Szabó Virág
Published: March 2016

In Hungary 1560 farms were involved in the organic farming in 2012. According to the producers' list of the Hungarian Federation of Associations for Organic Farming, on which 1126 members were registered, Pest, Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Hajdú-Bihar and Bács-Kiskun counties counts most of the organic farmers. The supply of the organic farmers can be featured by various, diversified products. The rate of the cereals determines their activities in 85%, this is followed by the fruits and the products made from them, which was characteristic in 70% for their profile, the vegetables has a share of 45%. The rate of the animal husbandry is only 25%. The results of the questionnaire survey showed that the obstructive factor of the domestic sale is the lack of the solvent demand, marketing and the producer cooperation, and the high price in the national economic circumstances. In addition, they emphasized that the foreigners trust better in their producers and the local market organization is stronger as well than in Hungary.
Radio programming for youth uptake in agriculture in Nyanza Region, Kenya
Authors: Okello Andrew Kasera
Published: March 2016

Youths participation in agriculture is at a lower level yet still decreasing worldwide (Proctor and Lucchesi 2012); this trend is the same for Nyanza region of Kenya. this study interogate youths in this region to understand how radio can be used to encourage their participation in agriculture. Radio is a vital tool in information disermination as it reach a large number of people including those in rural areas (Akugizibwe et al, 2011). This study was done in four Counties of Nyanza region namely Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay and Kisii. The specific objectives of this study are i) To investigate reasons why most youths do not participate in agricultural production in Nyanza region. ii) To assess why current agricultural radio-programmes do not influence youths’ participation in agriculture and, iii) To suggest better ways which radio can disseminate agricultural information to influence youths’ participation in agriculture. In summary, the study found out that; i) the major reasons why most youths do not participate in agricultural production in the region is that they consider it to be high labor intensive, low income generation activity and also agriculture to them is seen as belongs to failures in life among others. ii) In assessing why current agricultural radio-programmes do not influence youths’ participation in agriculture, the study found out that there were challenges in the radio listenership of agricultural programs majorly caused by the inconvenient time of airing agricultural programmes on radio, other competing programmes in radio which were of more interesting to youths than agricultural programmes, high cost of buying batteries especially those in the rural areas among others which are explained in this paper. iii) In suggesting ways through which radio can disseminate agricultural information better to influence youths’ participation in agriculture, the study found out that repeat of agriculture programmes at different times of the day would be the best way to solve the challenge followed by involvement of the youths in content making which would enable the programmes to be friendly to the youths, the third solution to the listenership challenge was the use of agritips between other radio programme which are interesting to the youths as this would draw their attention and make them be interested in the full programes on agriculture. There are also other ways proposed to improve listenership of the youths to agriculture radio programmes covered within this study.
Adaptation of climate smart agriculture concept in Kazakhstan, pros and cons
Authors: Viter Anna
Published: March 2016

The main purpose of this research is to see new examples of climate smart farming methods, how they might increase agricultural productivity and to be resilient to climate change. The object of the research is Climate Smart Agriculture holistic concept. The subject of the research is the relationships between farmers and governments of different countries. Food and Agriculture Organization is one of the major objectives to achieve food security and the agricultural sector is a key driver of food security. Having sustainable agricultural growth is necessary for achieving global food security. In order to become resilient to disasters, increase productivity and incomes and contribute to mitigation there is a relatively new holistic concept called Climate Smart Agriculture. Climate Smart Agriculture project is trying to build a model for the kinds of practices, policies and investment proposals and making resources of financing that we need to achieve food security.