bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Duplex Steel Multipass Welding
Authors: Giętka T. , Ciechacki K. , Kik T.
Published: January 2017

Analyses based on FEM calculations have significantly changed the possibilities of determining welding strains and stresses at early stages of product design and welding technology development. Such an approach to design enables obtaining significant savings in production preparation and post-weld deformation corrections and is also important for utility properties of welded joints obtained. As a result, it is possible to make changes to a simulated process before introducing them into real production as well as to test various variants of a given solution. Numerical simulations require the combination of problems of thermal, mechanical and metallurgical analysis. The study presented involved the SYSWELD software-based analysis of GMA welded multipass butt joints made of duplex steel sheets. The analysis of the distribution of stresses and displacements were carried out for typical welding procedure as during real welding tests.
Longevity Risk-Sharing Annuities: Partial Indexation in Mortality Experience
Authors: Zhang Saisai , Li Johnny Siu-Hang
Published: January 2017

In a conventional fixed annuity, idiosyncratic risk is diversified away while systematic longevity risk is borne entirely by the provider. The mortality-indexed annuity on the other hand, transfers systematic longevity risk completely back to the annuitants by fully adjusting benefits to mortality experience. In this paper, we propose the partial mortality-indexed annuity (PMIA), which aims to seek a balance between the two ends of the risk-sharing spectrum. Through a simulation study, we show that the PMIA achieves risk sharing and benefits both the provider and the annuitant.
Carotid Artery Disease - Left vs Right
Authors: Ionescu Ana-Maria , Carciumaru N. , Chirila S.
Published: January 2017

Stroke is a common cause of adult disability and the third cause of death in Western European countries. Carotid disease is a well-known risk factor for ischemic stroke, and this relationship is established. However, only a minority of the population with atherosclerosis will have a stroke.

The aim of these paper is to establish the relation between carotid atherosclerosis and first ischemic stroke. We performed an observational study, including 159 patients with carotid atherosclerosis. Our patients were examined with carotid ultrasound examination and cranio-cerebral computed tomography. We excluded patient with other cause of cerebral ischemia such atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, arterial dissection, vasculopathy, neoplasia. We also excluded any kind of transient cerebral ischemia, because of heterogeneity and poor medical documentation.

Despite our efforts to treat this condition, carotid disease remains a powerful risk factor for ischemic stroke.
Delayed vertebral diagnosed L4 pincer vertebral fracture, L2-L3 ruptured vertebral lumbar disc hernia, L5 vertebral wedge fracture - Case report
Authors: Balasa D , Schiopu M , Tunas A , Baz R , Hancu Anca
Published: January 2017

An association between delayed ruptured lumbar disc hernia, L5 vertebral wedge fracture and posttraumaticL4 pincer vertebral fracture (A2.3-AO clasification) at different levels is a very rare entity. We present the case of a 55 years old male who falled down from a bicycle. 2 months later because of intense and permanent vertebral lumbar and radicular L2 and L3 pain (Visual Scal Autologus of Pain7-8/10) the patient came to the hospital. He was diagnosed with pincer vertebral L4 fracture (A2.3-AO clasification) and L2-L3 right ruptured lumbar disc hernia in lateral reces. The patient was operated (L2-L3 right fenestration, and resection of lumbar disc hernia, bilateral stabilisation, L3-L4-L5 with titan screws and postero-lateral bone graft L4 bilateral harvested from iliac crest).
Self - inflicted lesions in children - indicator of intra familial abuse
Authors: Rebeleanu C , Mocanu Lacramioara , Popa M.
Published: January 2017

Self - inflicted lesions refers to a behavioural disorder with a complex ethiology. The occurrence of these cases in minors seems to be on the increase in last years, as well as minors abuse. On the assumption that there is a possible relation between minors abuse and this behavioural disorder, it has been evaluated comparatively the frequency with which it occurs among the minors examined in the forensic practice following reported abuse and the frequency with which it appears among the general population, sampled from the pupils in the final year of a high school in Bistrita.
Gradual and Cumulative Improvements to the Classical Differential Evolution Scheme through Experiments
Authors: Anescu George
Published: January 2017

The paper presents the experimental results of some tests conducted with the purpose to gradually and cumulatively improve the classical DE scheme in both efficiency and success rate. The modifications consisted in the randomization of the scaling factor (a simple jitter scheme), a more efficient Random Greedy Selection scheme, an adaptive scheme for the crossover probability and a resetting mechanism for the agents. After each modification step, experiments have been conducted on a set of 11 scalable, multimodal, continuous optimization functions in order to analyze the improvements and decide the new improvement direction. Finally, only the initial classical scheme and the constructed Fast Self-Adaptive DE (FSA-DE) variant were compared with the purpose of testing their performance degradation with the increase of the search space dimension. The experimental results demonstrated the superiority of the proposed FSA-DE variant.
Interleukin-33 plasma levels in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Alsahebfosoul Fereshteh , Rahimmanesh Ilnaz , Shajarian Mansour , Etemadifar Masoud , Sedaghat Nahid , Hejazi Zahra , Naderi Shamsi
Published: January 2017

Cytokines are implicated in the immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Interleukin (IL)-33, one of the recently discovered members of the IL-1 superfamily, is a dual functional cytokine involved in various autoimmune disorders. In a case-control study, venous blood was collected from healthy subjects categorized as control group (n=44) and MS patients (n=44). All recruited patients were clinically diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), including patients without treatment (new identified cases, n=16) and those treated with interferon beta (IFN-β) (n=28). The plasma levels of IL-33 in subjects were measured with ELISA. Significantly elevated IL-33 plasma levels were observed in RRMS patients (p=0.005). Furthermore, IFN-β-treated MS patients had lower levels of IL-33 compared to the untreated patients (p<0.001). Increased IL-33 plasma levels in the patient group might be associated with development of MS. These results could contribute to our better understanding about the role of IL-33 in the immunopathogenesis of MS.
Morphology of Sinophysis microcephala and Sinophysis canaliculata (Dinophyceae) from the South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Diniz Bruna S. , Menezes Mariângela , Nascimento Silvia Mattos
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to describe the morphology of species of the benthic dinoflagellate genus Sinophysis from the tropical South Atlantic. Species were collected from four sampling sites and were identified based on light and epifluorescence microscopy. Sinophysis microcephala was found at three sites. Cells were elongated and oval in lateral view. Sinophysis canaliculata was recorded at two sites. Cells were round in lateral view and a short cut was present at the H2 plate. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first record of the genus Sinophysis from the South Atlantic Ocean.
Estuarine Distribution of Saprolegniaceae in the Tampa Bay Area: I
Authors: Wagner-Merner Diane Te
Published: January 2017

A preliminary study determined the presence of some Saprolegniaceae in a small estuary in the Tampa Bay Area. Traditional methods of collecting aquatic fungi were employed. The results support the previously noted occurrence of these fungi and extend the geographical range of the species of tlus taxon. These and previously reported results of estuarine studies of Saprolegniaceae suggest that some species in this family are limited in their occurrence in southeastern United States estuaries.
New localities of Symphyotrichum ciliatum (Asteraceae) in Poland
Authors: Nobis Marcin , Pliszko Artur
Published: January 2017

The paper presents two new records of Symphyotrichum ciliatum in Poland with information on its population size and habitat. Distribution map of the species in Poland based on the ATPOL cartogram method is provided.
Influence Coefficients of Constructive Parameters of Meander Slow-Wave System with Additional Shields
Authors: Metlevskis Edvardas , Martavičius Romanas , Katkevičius Andrius , Plonis Darius
Published: January 2017

Constructions of meander slow-wave systems with additional shields grounded at different positions are presented. The construction of meander slow-wave systems with additional shields grounded at both edges is investigated in detail. The influence of the main constructive parameters on the electrical characteristics of meander slow-wave systems with additional shields grounded at both edges is evaluated. The main constructive parameters of the investigated system are: the length of the conductor, the width of meander conductor, the width of additional shield, and the width of the gap between adjacent meander conductors.

Sonnet® software package, which is based on the method of moments, has been used during the investigation. The results of the influence of constructive parameters to the phase delay time, input impedance, and the width of pass-band of the system are discussed.
Measuring the Level of Competition on the Serbian Mobile Telecommunications Market
Authors: Kostić Zorana , Stojanović Boban , Radukić Snežana
Published: January 2017

The starting hypothesis is that the market structure to a large extent determines the conduct and the level of the achieved performance of economic entities. The aim of this paper is to determine the theoretical and empirical correlation between market structure, conduct, and performance of economic entities. The paper provides an analytical overview of the mobile telecommunications market in the Republic of Serbia. By using different indicators (the Concentration ratio, the HHI, the Lorenz curve, and the Gini coefficient), the supply concentration in this market is measured and the nature of competition is analysed. By using statistical methods (correlation and simple linear regression analysis), the correlation between the variables, which confirmed the existence of a strong positive correlation between the degree of supply concentration on the market and the level of achieved performance is examined.
The Impact Of Location On The Role Of Small Towns In Regional Development: Mazovia, Poland
Authors: Czapiewski Konrad , Bański Jerzy , Górczyńska Magdalena
Published: January 2017

The paper explores the role of small towns in the Mazovia region in Poland which is both characterized by rural areas and the suburban zone of Warsaw. The analysis of changes in the local labour markets reveals that microregions formed by small peripheral towns were more resistant to changes than those located in the suburban area of Warsaw. The latter were absorbed by the capital city whose zone of influence expanded in the detriment of adjacent small towns and their microregions. Using the concept of exogenous functions performed by small towns, we also shed light on their role with regard to the surrounding areas (with dominant agricultural function) in the past decade. The values of the service concentration index (SCI) and the level of population concentration showed that the majority of services to local and neighbouring inhabitants were delivered in small county towns located in the periphery. On the other hand, small county towns located in the vicinity of Warsaw mainly provided services to their inhabitants.
The Long-Term Impact of Price Controls in Medicare Part D
Authors: Moreno Gigi , van Eijndhoven Emma , Benner Jennifer , Sullivan Jeffrey
Published: January 2017

Price controls for prescription drugs are once again at the forefront of policy discussions in the United States. Much of the focus has been on the potential short-term savings – in terms of lower spending – although evidence suggests price controls can dampen innovation and adversely affect long-term population health. This paper applies the Health Economics Medical Innovation Simulation, a microsimulation of older Americans, to estimate the long-term impacts of government price setting in Medicare Part D, using pricing in the Federal Veterans Health Administration program as a proxy. We find that VA-style pricing policies would save between $0.1 trillion and $0.3 trillion (US$2015) in lifetime drug spending for people born in 1949–2005. However, such savings come with social costs. After accounting for innovation spillovers, we find that price setting in Part D reduces the number of new drug introductions by as much as 25% relative to the status quo. As a result, life expectancy for the cohort born in 1991–1995 is reduced by almost 2 years relative to the status quo. Overall, we find that price controls would reduce lifetime welfare by $5.7 to $13.3 trillion (US$2015) for the US population born in 1949–2005.
Desulfurization of liquid fuel via extraction with imidazole-containing deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Gano Zaharaddeen S. , Mjalli Farouq S. , Al-Wahaibi Talal , Al-Wahaibi Yahya , AlNashef Inas M.
Published: January 2017

The desulfurization of liquid fuels with deep eutectic solvent (DES) newly synthesized from inexpensive constituents of imidazole and tetrabutylammonium bromide salt was conducted via liquid-liquid extraction. The aim of the work is to lower the sulfur content of liquid fuels to below the environmental regulation using DES in a process with low energy requirement. A simulated fuel containing dibenzothiophene (DBT) and thiophene as representative refractory sulfur compounds and a commercial-grade diesel fuel were used for this work. Quantitative monitoring of sulfur compounds in the raffinate phase of the fuels was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence techniques. The results of sulfur extraction showed that DBT and thiophene extraction efficiencies of 70% and 47%, respectively, could be achieved from the simulated fuel in a single run extraction. Similarly, 47% total sulfur removal from the commercial-grade diesel fuel was achieved with the solvent. The deep desulfurizations of the fuels were successfully achieved in four and five successive stages with the simulated fuel and the diesel fuel, respectively. The solvent was effectively regenerated after the extraction process with both fuels, thus allowing for its repetitive usage.
Urban Resettlements and Environmental Engineering as a Context for Human Development. A Case Study: Hade
Authors: Bajçinovci Bujar , Jerliu Florina
Published: January 2017

This paper explores the spatial considerations and relationship between necessity of expanding lignite mining, and urban resettlements as a context for human development and security. A situation is considered fragile when objective is to implement a strategy of safe resettlement. Moreover, those situations reflect how urban resettlement can be a social displeasure, despite health hazards of actual zones. The study presented in this paper explored the Shala neighbourhood of Hade village, focussing on urban resettlements, and environmental engineering issues. The research method consists of empirical observation throughout the zone, with an accent to the areas of resettlement. In order to receive a clear data and information, research is made within spatial regulation of urban planning, focusing on the environmental features regarding to the morphology of the area, air pollution, zones for expanding lignite mining and general hazards of public health. Case study was investigated through literature review, and the data collected includes maps, composition of urban structure, attributes of space, genius loci, and mining activities. Resettlements as a phenomenon pull away very sensitive social, safety and mental issues. We employ relatively new conceptual findings of urban planning, showing that the urban resettlement to a near village Shkabaj does not fulfil social, health and environmental objectives. Based on results of new resettlement area pollution, and urban planning issues presented in this paper, location for the resettlement of Shala neighbourhood of Hade village was not appropriate: as pattern for future urban resettlements in a context for environmental security and human development
Energy Efficient School Building HVAC Systems Monitoring Plan
Authors: Boros I. , Stoian D. , Stoian V. , Nagy-Gyorgy T.
Published: January 2017

The paper presents aspects regarding the component of the HVAC system and their monitoring system of a school building, which use both energy efficient concepts and renewable energy solutions
Incorporating Social Capital into the Austrian Business Cycle Theory
Authors: D’Amico Daniel J.
Published: January 2017

This paper incorporates insights from social capital theory into the traditional Austrian business cycle theory (ABCT). Whereas in the standard Austrian narrative, recovery processes entail the reallocation of investment resources from more towards less-capital intensive industries, social capital may represent an alternative avenue for investment energies. Unique characteristics of social capital are surveyed and strategic opportunities for leveraging social capital by different decision maker types are explained. Recognizing social capital developments amidst business cycles helps to account for the long-term resilience and continual social progress of economic performance amidst increasingly interventionist central banking practices.
Economic Calculation and the Productivity of Investment
Authors: Powell Benjamin , Macera Gonzalo
Published: January 2017

This paper explains why institutional quality impacts the productivity of investment. The existing empirical literature finds that a given level of investment creates more economic growth in more economically free countries. We draw on insights from Austrian economics, particularly the economic calculation debate and associated knowledge problems, to provide a theoretical explanation for why entrepreneurs are able to better value investment opportunities in more economically free countries which, in turn, leads to higher economic growth.
Recovery of L

p
-potential in the plane
Authors: Lakshtanov Evgeny , Vainberg Boris
Published: January 2017

An inverse problem for the two-dimensional Schrödinger equation with

L
com
p

{L^{p}_{\rm com}}

-potential,

p
>
1

{p>1}

, is considered. Using the

∂
¯

{\bar{\partial}}

-method, the potential is recovered from the Dirichlet-to-Neumann map on the boundary of a domain containing the support of the potential. We do not assume that the potential is small or that the Faddeev scattering problem does not have exceptional points. The paper contains a new estimate on the Faddeev Green function that immediately implies the absence of exceptional points near the origin and infinity when

v
∈

L
com
p

{v\in L^{p}_{\rm com}}

.
Plasmonics for emerging quantum technologies
Authors: Bozhevolnyi Sergey I. , Mortensen N. Asger
Published: January 2017

Expanding the frontiers of information processing technologies and, in particular, computing with ever-increasing speed and capacity has long been recognized as an important societal challenge, calling for the development of the next generation of quantum technologies. With its potential to exponentially increase computing power, quantum computing opens up possibilities to carry out calculations that ordinary computers could not finish in the lifetime of the universe, whereas optical communications based on quantum cryptography become completely secure. At the same time, the emergence of Big Data and the ever-increasing demands of miniaturization and energy-saving technologies bring about additional fundamental problems and technological challenges to be addressed in scientific disciplines dealing with light-matter interactions. In this context, quantum plasmonics represents one of the most promising and fundamental research directions and, indeed, the only one that enables the ultimate miniaturization of photonic components for quantum optics when being taken to extreme limits in light-matter interactions.
Work Integration Social Enterprises in Austria – Characteristics, Evolution and Perspectives
Authors: Anastasiadis Maria
Published: January 2017

At a time of rising unemployment and strained labor market policy budgets, Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) are currently facing difficult circumstances in Austria. If, and how, WISEs can continue to create and deliver quality services for their users (while meeting public authority’s demands) is a topic of vigorous debate at the national level. In an endeavor to gain insight into the current situation, the focus of this paper is to explain the historical emergence of WISEs in the context of the Austrian welfare state. The analysis combines empirical data on key characteristics of ECO-WISEs – a major subgroup of WISEs with an ecological orientation – with an analysis of the institutionalization process of these WISEs, based on the outcome of a series of semi-structured interviews with key experts in the field. The discussion begins by describing their development in the 1980s, growth in the 1990s and concludes with the marketization and reorientation process experienced by these WISEs from 2000 onwards. The paper concludes with a discussion of the victories and challenges faced by these WISEs and highlights the important role that ECO-WISEs have assumed in recognizing and responding to societal needs, developing innovative services, and in meeting the requirements of policy makers.
Oligocarboxylates as useful templates in dynamic combinatorial chemistry
Authors: Ulatowski Filip , Jurczak Janusz
Published: January 2017

Dynamic combinatorial chemistry deals with systems (libraries) of multiple compounds formed by reversible reactions. Interactions of all library components with introduced template molecule are reflected in modification of library composition and are analysed simultaneously. In our studies we investigated a single-substrate dynamic combinatorial library of macrocycles, based on dipicolinic acid diamide, with disulphide bond exchange as the reversible reaction. The library components equipped with hydrogen bond donors interact with anionic guests – carboxylates which act as templates inducing amplification of selected library members. We proved that quantitative analysis of interactions with templates is possible, which led us to a novel method of analysis of association constants of static receptors introduced to the system. With a large set of carboxylates differing in number of anionic groups, size, shape, and flexibility of the linker, we proved that the library is very sensitive to structural parameters of the template. We also showed that with mediation of a photoswitchable azobenzene-based template it is possible to change the library composition by light stimulus. Similarly, with mediation of EDTA the library is sensitive to introduction of metal cations.
Studies on the effects of 4,4′-dihydroxyphenyl on crystallization and melting behavior of poly (butylene terephthalate)
Authors: Shen Zhiyuan , Luo Faliang , Du Jianghua , Lei Xiaomei , Ji Lijie
Published: January 2017

The blends of poly (butylene terephthalate) (PBT) and 4,4′-dihydroxyphenyl (DHP) were prepared by melt blending, and the effects of DHP on the crystallization and melting behaviors of PBT were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), and polarized optical microscopy (POM). The results showed that crystallization temperature and crystallinity of PBT apparently decreased with the addition of DHP. A remarkably decline in crystallization rate of PBT was achieved, and the blends had higher σ
e and q values than that of pure PBT as analyzed based on the Avrami equation and Lauritzen-Hoffman equation. The crystal structure of PBT did not change by the addition of DHP, while the spherulite size of PBT decreased.
Study of a novel co-rotating non-twin screw extruder in processing flame retardant polymer materials
Authors: Zhao Song , Xu Baiping , He Liang , Yu Huiwen , Tan Shouzai
Published: January 2017

A thorough study was carried out to investigate the priority of a novel co-rotating non-twin screw extruder (NTSE) over a traditional twin screw extruder (TSE) in the mixing process of halogen-free intumescent flame-retardant acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) composites. The homogeneity of the flame-retardant additives of the composites processed by NTSE and TSE under the same operating conditions was characterized by using mechanical performance properties, limiting oxygen index values, UL-94 tests, and thermogravimetric analysis. All the results suggested that NTSE could achieve better mixing of the flame-retardant additives in the polymer matrix than TSE, which was further clarified by the scanning electron microscope pictures.
How demographic patterns and social policies shape interdependence among lives in the family realm
Authors: Dykstra Pearl A. , Hagestad Gunhild O.
Published: January 2017

Our starting point is that a social psychological approach dominates the literature on interdependent or “linked” lives (Elder, 1994). We argue that interdependence is not only social-psychological, but is also structured on a macro-level. More specifically, we illustrate ways in which demographic change, such as increased co-longevity, creates different opportunities for interdependence for men and women. In addition, we draw attention to the role of national policies, distinguishing ways in which legislationmandatesgenerational interdependence (e.g., legal obligations to provide financial support),blocksgenerational interdependence (e.g., grandparents not granted the right to raise grandchildren when parents cannot provide adequate care; migration laws not granting temporary visits to enable the provision of care),generatesgenerational interdependence (e.g., daddy quota), andlightensgenerational interdependence (e.g., less reliance on grandparental care in Northern and Western Europe due to public support to parents of young children). We pay specific attention to childless men and women, questioning the primacy assigned to kinship ties in health care and long-term support policies. Gender receives consistent consideration throughout the paper.
Efficacy of Epalrestat, Duloxetine and Epalrestat in Combination with Methylcobalamine in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Abhilash Penchala , Manasa Macharla , Subrahmanyam Bandaru Siva , Venkateshwarlu Eggadi , Goverdhan Puchchakayala , Nagesh Adla , Reddy Gade Amulya , Sharvana Bhava Bandaru Sheshagiri
Published: January 2017

Diabetic neuropathy is a major long term problem allied with diabetes that can cause serious disability and also death. Fifty to seventy five percent of all ulcerations and non trauma amputations are a consequence of diabetic neuropathy. Epalrestat, duloxetine and epalrestat with methylcobalamine are widely used to overcome neuronal damage. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of these three drug regimens. Material and methods: Patients included in this study were experiencing pain because of diabetic neuropathy for more than 6 months but not more than 5 years. Results: From 236 subjects with diabetic neuropathy included in the study, 181 patients concluded final analysis. 55 patients dropped from the study (14, 23 and 18 patients from duloxetine, epalrestat+methylcobalamine combination and epalrestat respectively). Mean pain score was reduced from 5.01±1.99 (severe pain) at first visit to 2.86±2.10 (moderate pain) in the epalrestat group, from 6.41±1.73 (severe pain) at first visit to 2.38±1.58 (mild pain) in the duloxetine group and from 5.86±1.76 (severe pain) to 2.88±1.91 (mild pain) in the epalrestat with methylcobalamine group. Conclusion: We conclude that duloxetine was significantly more effective than epalrestat and epalrestat in combination with methylcobalamine in relieving diabetic neuropathic pain.
Different effects of anti-TNF-alpha biologic drugs on the small bowel macroscopic inflammation in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Chitul A. , Voiosu A.M. , Marinescu Mădălina , Caraiola Simona , Nicolau Adriana , Badea Georgeta Camelia , Pârvu Magda Ileana , Ionescu R. A. , Mateescu B. R. , Voiosu M. R. , Băicuş C. R. , Rimbaş M.
Published: January 2017

Background & Aims. Considering the ability of anti-TNF alpha drugs to lower the burden intestinal inflammation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and the similarity between IBD and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) regarding inflammatory intestinal involvement, we aimed to investigate the impact of anti-TNF alpha biologic therapy on subclinical intestinal inflammation in AS patients.

Methods. Between January 2008 and December 2013, 38 AS patients and 23 controls were enrolled in the study and investigated with small bowel videocapsule endoscopy examination and ileocolonoscopy. Each tertile of the small bowel (proximal, mid and distal) was assessed by calculating the Lewis score based on the image stream.

Results. The Lewis scores were significantly higher in the AS group compared to controls (580.9 ± 818 vs. 81 ± 121, p<0.001). 16 patients (42.1%) were on anti-TNF alpha therapy (Adalimumab (n = 5), Infliximab (n = 5) or Etanercept (n = 6)).31.3% of them used NSAIDs simultaneously, compared with 77.3% of the other patients (p<0.01). Their Lewis scores were lower compared to the other patients for the entire small bowel (306 ± 164 vs. 790 ± 1038, p = 0.015), its proximal and distal tertiles (238 ± 154 vs. 560 ± 543, p = 0.021, and 140 ± 189 vs. 300 ± 220, p = 0.027, respectively). The Lewis score was also lower in patients receiving Adalimumab/Infliximab compared to those on Etanercept for the entire bowel and its distal tertile (262 ± 165 vs. 380 ± 148, p = 0.069 and 62 ± 101 vs. 273 ± 236, p = 0.060, respectively).

Conclusion. Anti-TNF alpha therapy in patients with AS reduces the subclinical intestinal inflammation, but the magnitude seems to depend upon the class anti-TNF alpha agent used (Clinical Trials. gov NCT00768950).
The Image of the Country in Journalists’ Tweets – Case Study
Authors: Banias Oksana , Leonowicz-Bukała Iwona , Martens Anna
Published: January 2017

This article attempts to assess the role of Twitter in international communication on the basis of intentionally selected part of reality. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the potential impact of messages, posted in the microblogging service by the internationally recognized journalist, on creating the image of Poland in the world. Case study was carried out on the example of Anne Applebaum’s Twitter account.
The method of determining surface water erosion influence on agricultural valorization of soils with usage of geoprocessing techniques and spatial information systems
Authors: Prus Barbara , Salata Tomasz , Gawroński Krzysztof
Published: January 2017

The aim of the paper is to propose methodical solutions concerning synthetic agricultural analysis of production space which consists in combined (synthetic) – in spatial and statistical contexts – analysis and evaluation of quality and farming utility of soils in connection with soils erosive risk level. The paper is aimed at presentation of methodology useful in such type of analyses as well as demonstration to what extent the areas of farming production space being subject to restrictive protection are exposed to destructive effect of surface water erosion. Own factor (HDSP.E) was suggested, which is a high degree synthesis of soil protection in connection with degrees of surface water erosion risk. The proposed methodology was used for detailed spatial analyses performed for Tomice – the Małopolska rural commune (case study). The area model elaborated for the proposed methodology’s purpose faced with soils mechanical composition allowed to make a model of surface water erosion in five-grade scale. Synthetic evaluation (product of spatial objects on numerous thematic layers) of quality and farming utility of soils and also zones of surface water erosion risk allowed to assign spatial distribution of HDSP.E factor (abbreviation of high degree of soil protection combined with erosion). The analyses enabled to determine proportional contribution of the most valuable resources of farming production space that are subject to soil erosion negative phenomenon. Geoprocessing techniques used for the analyses of environmental elements of farming production space were applied in the paper. The analysis of spatial distribution of researched phenomena was elaborated in Quantum GIS programme.
Geomorphological analysis in soil profile assessment of the margin of Warsaw morainic plateau in Ursynów
Authors: Garbulewski Kazimierz , Falkowski Tomasz , Rabarijoely Simon , Ostrowski Piotr
Published: January 2017

This paper addresses the application of geomorphological analysis to recognize the geotechnical conditions at the margin of a moraine plateau in Warsaw. Aerial photographs, borehole data logging, CPT and DMT tests results were taken into account to compare the conditions at two sites, i.e. the well recognized part of the moraine plateau (SGGW Stadium site) and the second part located at a distance of 5 km (Warsaw slope – church). Spatial variability of the strength and deformation properties in the study areas were determined using CPT and DMT tests results. The general conclusion is that the specific geomorphological units allow for prediction to some extent the sequence of geotechnical layers and the general distribution of soil parameters. The example from the margin of the moraine plateau in Warsaw shows that such procedure is a promising statistical tool related to geotechnical problems.
Values of a sign in the theory and philosophy of physical culture in Matic' work
Authors: Kebin Vladimir
Published: January 2017

The 80th anniversary of the birth of dr Milivoje Matic is a trigger for a reassessment of his contribution to physical culture. By individually analysing Matic's contributions in each of his works between 1961 and 1998, we come to the conclusion that in some of his publications exist sparks of "philosophical fragments", which are necessary for comprehending the author's belief that Matic has made it possible to discuss a possibility of a philosophical aspect and a constitution of the philosophy of physical culture in our country. M. Matic gives pointers which signify an event which would be prognostic on a permanent progress in our profession, in the context of education as a whole, domestically and abroad. In this discussion, the topic of Matic's contribution to the analysis of physical education in the philosophy of physical culture, and in the context of the sign of direction in the domestic education reform, the domestic physical education reform should be observed and analysed from the aspect of transversal connections which repeatedly link deliberation of the theory and practice of physical education.
Proposal to Achieve Floodplain Connectivity in Alțâna Sector on Hârtibaciu River (Transylvania, Romania)
Authors: Voicu Răzvan , Heron Linda , Curtean-Bănăduc Angela , Bănăduc Doru
Published: January 2017

The process of supplying water to the new anthropogenic wetland is achieved gravitationally, and the excess water in the wetland will be directed towards the Hârtibaciu River in a similar natural way. The fish and fauna of the Hârtibaciu River have a disrupted lateral connectivity due to its banks embanking including in the proximity of the Alţâna locality. The newly proposed anthropogenic wetland would improve habitat quality for the fish species of conservation interest, Rhodeus amarus (Bloch, 1782), and increase its population numbers. A new fish species, Chondrostoma nasus, was identified for the first time in the Hârtibaciu River.
Tractability of Multivariate Integration Using Low-Discrepancy Sequences
Authors: Tezuka Shu
Published: January 2017

We propose a notion of (t,e,s)-sequences in multiple bases, which unifies the Halton sequence and (t, s)-sequences under one roof, and obtain an upper bound of their discrepancy consisting only of the leading term. By using this upper bound, we improve the tractability results currently known for the Halton sequence, the Niederreiter sequence, the Sobol’ sequence, and the generalized Faure sequence, and also give tractability results for the Xing-Niederreiter sequence and the Hofer-Niederreiter sequence, for which no results have been known so far.
On the Gaussian Limiting Distribution of Lattice Points in a Parallelepiped
Authors: Levin Mordechay B.
Published: January 2017

Let Γ ⊂ ℝ
s
be a lattice obtained from a module in a totally real algebraic number field. Let ℛ(
θ
, N) be the error term in the lattice point problem for the parallelepiped [−θ
1
N
1, θ
1
N
1] × . . . × [−θs Ns
, θs Ns
]. In this paper, we prove that ℛ(
θ
, N)/σ(ℛ, N) has a Gaussian limiting distribution as N→∞, where
θ
= (θ
1, . . . , θs
) is a uniformly distributed random variable in [0, 1]
s
, N = N
1 . . . . Ns
and σ(ℛ, N) ≍ (log N)(s−1)/2. We obtain also a similar result for the low discrepancy sequence corresponding to Γ. The main tool is the S-unit theorem.
Antinociceptive effect of Aristolochia trilobata stem essential oil and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2yl acetate, its main compound, in rodents
Authors: Quintans Jullyana de Souza Siqueira , Alves Rafael dos Santos , Santos Darlisson de Alexandria , Serafini Mairim Russo , Alves Péricles Barreto , Costa Emmanoel Vilaça , Zengin Gokhan , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo José , Guimarães Adriana Gibara
Published: January 2017

Aristolochia trilobata L. is an aromatic plant, popularly known as “mil-homens”, and its essential oil (EO) is generally used to treat colic, diarrhea and dysentery disorders. We evaluated the antinociceptive effect of A. trilobata stem EO and of its major compound, the (R)-(-)-6-methyl-5-hepten-2-yl acetate (sulcatyl acetate: SA), using acetic acid (0.85%)-induced writhing response and formalin-induced (20 μL of 1%) nociceptive behavior in mice. We also evaluated the EO and SA effect on motor coordination, using the rota-rod apparatus. EO (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) or SA (25 and 50 mg/kg) reduced nociceptive behavior in the writhing test (p<0.001). EO (100 mg/kg) and SA (25 and 50 mg/kg) decreased the nociception on the first phase of the formalin test (p<0.05). On the second phase, EO (25: p<0.01; 50: p<0.05 and 100 mg/kg: p<0.001) and SA (25 and 50 mg/kg; p<0.001) reduced the nociceptive response induced by formalin. EO and SA were not able to cause changes in the motor coordination of animals. Together, our results suggest that EO has an analgesic profile and SA seems to be one of the active compounds in this effect.
Novel survey methods shed light on prehistoric exploration in Cyprus
Authors: Stewart S.T. , Hitchings P.M.N. , Bikoulis P. , Banning E.B.
Published: January 2017

Evidence for the earliest occupation of Cyprus (c. 11000–8500 cal BC) has been elusive as it often consists of small, diffuse and unobtrusive scatters of debris from stone tool manufacture. Yet tracing these sites is crucial if we are to understand how humans first explored the island, learned to exploit its resources and introduced useful flora and fauna from elsewhere. Our approach to this problem is to employ new methods of pedestrian survey and predictive modelling so as to investigate a route that could have linked the coast and the interior.
Plasticity in Brainstem Mechanisms of Pain Modulation by Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in the Rat
Authors: Jareczek Francis J. , White Stephanie R. , Hammond Donna L.
Published: January 2017

Individuals with chronic pain may be driven to smoke more because the analgesic efficacy of nicotine diminishes. To determine whether persistent pain diminishes the actions of a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist in pain modulatory pathways, we examined the effects of epibatidine in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) of rats with and without inflammatory injury induced by intraplantar injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). In uninjured rats, epibatidine produced a dose-dependent antinociception that was completely blocked by dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE; α4β2 antagonist) and partially blocked by methyllycaconitine (MLA; α7 antagonist). Epibatidine reversed heat hyperalgesia when microinjected in the RVM 4 h, 4 d, or 2 weeks after CFA treatment. Although DHβE completely blocked epibatidine’s antihyperalgesic effect at 4 h, at 2 weeks it elicited only partial antagonism. Methyllycaconitine was ineffective at both time points. Epibatidine’s antinociceptive efficacy in the uninjured hind paw progressively declined, and it was without effect 2 weeks after CFA. Moreover, as early as 4 h after CFA, the antinociceptive effect of epibatidine was no longer antagonized by DHβE. Neither antagonist alone altered paw withdrawal latency in uninjured or CFA-treated rats, suggesting that neither α4β2 nor α7 nAChRs are tonically active in the RVM. TheBmaxandKdof α4β2 nAChRs in the RVM were unchanged after CFA treatment. These observations provide the first evidence of pharmacological plasticity of the actions of α4β2 nAChR agonists in a critical brainstem pain modulatory pathway and may in part explain why people with chronic pain smoke more than the general population.
Dynamics and Fate of Beneficial Mutations Under Lineage Contamination by Linked Deleterious Mutations
Authors: Pénisson Sophie , Singh Tanya , Sniegowski Paul , Gerrish Philip
Published: January 2017

Beneficial mutations drive adaptive evolution, yet their selective advantage does not ensure their fixation. Haldane’s application of single-type branching process theory showed that genetic drift alone could cause the extinction of newly arising beneficial mutations with high probability. With linkage, deleterious mutations will affect the dynamics of beneficial mutations and might further increase their extinction probability. Here, we model the lineage dynamics of a newly arising beneficial mutation as a multitype branching process. Our approach accounts for the combined effects of drift and the stochastic accumulation of linked deleterious mutations, which we call lineage contamination. We first study the lineage-contamination phenomenon in isolation, deriving dynamics and survival probabilities (the complement of extinction probabilities) of beneficial lineages. We find that survival probability is zero when U≳sb, where U is deleterious mutation rate and sb is the selective advantage of the beneficial mutation in question, and is otherwise depressed below classical predictions by a factor bounded from below by ∼1−U/sb. We then put the lineage contamination phenomenon into the context of an evolving population by incorporating the effects of background selection. We find that, under the combined effects of lineage contamination and background selection, ensemble survival probability is never zero but is depressed below classical predictions by a factor bounded from below by e−εU/s¯b, where s¯b is mean selective advantage of beneficial mutations, and ε=1−e−1≈0.63. This factor, and other bounds derived from it, are independent of the fitness effects of deleterious mutations. At high enough mutation rates, lineage contamination can depress fixation probabilities to values that approach zero. This fact suggests that high mutation rates can, perhaps paradoxically, (1) alleviate competition among beneficial mutations, or (2) potentially even shut down the adaptive process. We derive critical mutation rates above which these two events become likely.
VIDINIS IR IŠORINIS PASAULIAI: DAIKTŲ, MATERIJOS IR PROTO PRIGIMTIS PAGAL GŌNGSŪN LÓNGZǏ
Authors: Indraccolo Lisa
Published: January 2017

Šiame straipsnyje apžvelgiamas pažinimo naratyvas, pateikiamas nepelnytai mažo dėmesio sulaukusiame klasikiniame kinų filosofijos tekste Gōngsūn Lóngzǐ. Jis lyginamas su kitais tekstas, priskiriamais vadinamajai logikų (míngjiā) minties krypčiai. Gōngsūn Lóngzǐ itin svarbus pažinimo konstravimo procesams senovės Kinijoje suprasti. Pagal šį tekstą, protas turi gebėjimą veikti distinkcijomis. Jis suskaido tikrovę į prasmingus, suvaldomus vienetus ir juos klasifikuoja pagal atitinkamas kategorijas. Straipsnyje parodoma, kad toks gebėjimas yra ne tik būtinas individo pasaulio pažinimui, bet ir pakankamas, kad užtikrintų vienareikšmį vardų ir tikrovės atitikimą.
ZHUANGZI ESTETINĖS MINTIES INTERPRETACIJA XU FUGUANO DARBUOSE: KELETAS LYGINAMOSIOS PRIEIGOS KEBLUMŲ
Authors: Sernelj Téa
Published: January 2017

Straipsnyje aptariama, kaip Xu Fuguan interpretuoja keletą pagrindinių Zuangzi estetinės minties sąvokų. Xu nuomone, Zhuangzi estetinė mintis susijusi su estetiniu žmogaus gyvenimo būdu, kur grožis taikomas dao sričiai, kurioje žmonės gali išlaisvinti savo sielą ir džiaugtis „laisvu ir lengvu klajojimu“ (xiaoyaoyou 逍遙遊). Pasak Xu, tai yra aukščiausia ir gražiausia žmogaus egzistencijos sfera, įgaunanti išraišką mene. Zhuangzi sąvokas xinzhai心齋 ir zuowang 坐忘, kaip šio aukščiausio būties lygmens pasiekimo metodą, Xu laikė panašiomis į kai kurias XIX ir XX a. Vakarų fenomenologijos sąvokas. Nors Xu stengėsi atsargiai vesti paraleles tarp Vakarų filosofijos ir Zhuangzi mąstymo, jis manė esant jų panašumų, ypač klausimu, kodėl žmogaus sąmonė gali estetiškai suvokti pasaulį. Šio straipsnio tikslas yra atskleisti tokios lyginamosios prieigos, glūdinčios Xu estetinėje mintyje, metodologinius keblumus ir prieštaravimus.
Neuropediatrics postgraduate students’ learning process through hidden curriculum at Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Authors: Uscátegui-Daccarett Angélica María , Sáenz-Lozada María Luz
Published: January 2017

Based on the importance of a comprehensive professional training, this research aims at observing and describing the learning process achieved through the hidden curriculum of students enrolled in the Neuropediatrics Specialization Program at Universidad Nacional de Colombia in 2012 y 2013.A qualitative study to explore students’ training, transmission of attitudes, values and ethical aspects was performed through the implementation of a semi-structured interview and a focal group.For this group of students, learning through the hidden curriculum is real and educational, allows having a better approach to patients and acquiring appropriate tools for a successful job performance. Nevertheless, it is still insufficient to address ethical dilemmas such as delivery of bad news and patients’ deaths. Thus, complementing this type of learning with explicit training on bioethics is required.
Use of the ROSE risk score for predicting mortality and cardiovascular events in adult patients at 7 and 30 days of syncope
Authors: Paz-Meneses Manuel Agustín , Mora-Pabón Guillermo
Published: January 2017

Introduction: The use of the ROSE risk score after syncope provides the possibility of identifying patients at risk of death or other important adverse events after 30 days of admission to the emergency department.Objective: To evaluate the performance of ROSE score in terms of mortality prediction and major adverse events at 7 and 30 days in adult patients with syncope admitted to the emergency department.Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study in patients with syncope who were admitted to the emergency room was performed. An operational analysis of the predictive ability for detection of possible complications was done by calculating sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and ROC curves.Results: 60 patients were evaluated. An area under the curve for prediction of mortality or major outcome at 7 and 30 days of 0.62 (95%CI: 0.45-0.78) was obtained, with sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 18.18%, PPV of 6.25% and NPV of 83%.Conclusion: ROSE score showed low sensitivity for predicting mortality or serious outcomes at 7 and 30 days. Its high negative predictive value makes it a useful prognostic tool in low risk patients.