bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wage discrimination against immigrants: measurement with firm-level productivity data
Authors: Kampelmann Stephan , Rycx François
Published: August 2016

This paper is one of the first to use employer-employee data on wages and labor productivity to measure discrimination against immigrants. We build on an identification strategy proposed by Bartolucci (Ind Labor Relat Rev 67(4):1166–1202, 2014) and address firm fixed effects and endogeneity issues through a diff GMM-IV estimator. Our models also test for gender-based discrimination. Empirical results for Belgium suggest significant wage discrimination against women and (to a lesser extent) against immigrants. We find no evidence for double discrimination against female immigrants. Institutional factors such as firm-level collective bargaining and smaller firm sizes are found to attenuate wage discrimination against foreigners, but not against women.

JEL Classification:J15, J16, J24, J31, J7
Changes in Clinical Context for Kaposi's Sarcoma and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Among People With HIV Infection in the United States
Authors: Yanik Elizabeth L. , Achenbach Chad J. , Gopal Satish , Coghill Anna E. , Cole Stephen R. , Eron Joseph J. , Moore Richard D. , Mathews W. Christopher , Drozd Daniel R. , Hamdan Ayad , Ballestas Mary E. , Engels Eric A.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The biology of HIV-associated cancers may differ depending on immunologic and virologic context during development. Therefore, an understanding of the burden of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) relative to antiretroviral therapy (ART), virologic suppression, and CD4 count is important.

Patients and Methods

KS and NHL diagnoses during 1996 to 2011 were identified among patients with HIV infection in eight clinical cohorts in the United States. Among patients in routine HIV clinical care, the proportion of cases in categories of ART use, HIV RNA, and CD4 count at diagnosis were described across calendar time. Person-time and incidence rates were calculated for each category.

Results

We identified 466 patients with KS and 258 with NHL. In recent years, KS was more frequently diagnosed after ART initiation (55% in 1996 to 2001 v 76% in 2007 to 2011; P-trend = .02). The proportion of patients with NHL who received ART was higher but stable over time (83% overall; P-trend = .81). An increasing proportion of KS and NHL occurred at higher CD4 counts (P < .05 for KS and NHL) and with undetectable HIV RNA (P < .05 for KS and NHL). In recent years, more person-time was contributed by patients who received ART, had high CD4 counts and had undetectable HIV RNA, whereas incidence rates in these same categories remained stable or declined.

Conclusion

Over time, KS and NHL occurred at higher CD4 counts and lower HIV RNA values, and KS occurred more frequently after ART initiation. These changes were driven by an increasing proportion of patients with HIV who received effective ART, had higher CD4 counts, and had suppressed HIV RNA and not by increases in cancer risk within these subgroups. An improved understanding of HIV-associated cancer pathogenesis and outcomes in the context of successful ART is therefore important.
Clinical Performance and Safety of Closed-Loop Systems: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Brogi Etrusca , Cyr Shantale , Kazan Roy , Giunta Francesco , Hemmerling Thomas M.
Published: August 2016

Automated systems can improve the stability of controlled variables and reduce the workload in clinical practice without increasing the risks to patients. We conducted this review and meta-analysis to assess the clinical performance of closed-loop systems compared with manual control. Our primary outcome was the accuracy of closed-loop systems in comparison with manual control to maintain a given variable in a desired target range. The occurrence of overshoot and undershoot episodes was the secondary outcome. We retrieved randomized controlled trials on accuracy and safety of closed-loop systems versus manual control. Our primary outcome was the percentage of time during which the system was able to maintain a given variable (eg, bispectral index or oxygen saturation) in a desired range or the proportion of the target measurements that was within the required range. Our secondary outcome was the percentage of time or the number of episodes that the controlled variable was above or below the target range. The standardized mean difference and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for continuous outcomes, whereas the odds ratio and 95% CI were estimated for dichotomous outcomes. Thirty-six trials were included. Compared with manual control, automated systems allowed better maintenance of the controlled variable in the anesthesia drug delivery setting (95% CI, 11.7%–23.1%; percentage of time,P< 0.0001, number of studies:n= 15), in patients with diabetes mellitus (95% CI, 11.5%–30.9%; percentage of time,P= 0.001,n= 8), and in patients mechanically ventilated (95% CI, 1.5%–23.1%; percentage of time,P= 0.03,n= 8). Heterogeneity among the studies was high (>75%). We observed a significant reduction of episodes of overshooting and undershooting when closed-loop systems were used. The use of automated systems can result in better control of a given target within a selected range. There was a decrease of overshooting or undershooting of a given target with closed-loop systems.
Defining Glioblastoma Resectability Through the Wisdom of the Crowd: A Proof-of-Principle Study
Authors: Sonabend Adam M , Zacharia Brad E , Cloney Michael B , Sonabend Aarón , Showers Christopher , Ebiana Victoria , Nazarian Matthew , Swanson Kristin R , Baldock Anne , Brem Henry , Bruce Jeffrey N , Butler William , Cahill Daniel P , Carter Bob , Orringer Daniel A , Roberts David W , Sagher Oren , Sanai Nader , Schwartz Theodore H , Silbergeld Daniel L , Sisti Michael B , Thompson Reid C , Waziri Allen E , Ghogawala Zoher , McKhann Guy
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Extent of resection (EOR) correlates with glioblastoma outcomes. Resectability and EOR depend on anatomical, clinical, and surgeon factors. Resectability likely influences outcome in and of itself, but an accurate measurement of resectability remains elusive. An understanding of resectability and the factors that influence it may provide a means to control a confounder in clinical trials and provide reference for decision making.

OBJECTIVE

To provide proof of concept of the use of the collective wisdom of experienced brain tumor surgeons in assessing glioblastoma resectability.

METHODS

We surveyed 13 academic tumor neurosurgeons nationwide to assess the resectability of newly diagnosed glioblastoma. Participants reviewed 20 cases, including digital imaging and communications in medicine-formatted pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance images and clinical vignettes. The selected cases involved a variety of anatomical locations and a range of EOR. Participants were asked about surgical goal, eg, gross total resection, subtotal resection (STR), or biopsy, and rationale for their decision. We calculated a “resectability index” for each lesion by pooling responses from all 13 surgeons.

RESULTS

Neurosurgeons’ individual surgical goals varied significantly (P = .015), but the resectability index calculated from the surgeons’ pooled responses was strongly correlated with the percentage of contrast-enhancing residual tumor (R = 0.817, P < .001). The collective STR goal predicted intraoperative decision of intentional STR documented on operative notes (P < .01) and nonresectable residual (P < .01), but not resectable residual.

CONCLUSION

In this pilot study, we demonstrate the feasibility of measuring the resectability of glioblastoma through crowdsourcing. This tool could be used to quantify resectability, a potential confounder in neuro-oncology clinical trials.
Surgical Management of Carney Complex–Associated Pituitary Pathology
Authors: Lonser Russell R. , Mehta Gautam U. , Kindzelski Bogdan A. , Ray-Chaudhury Abhik , Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Dickerman Robert , Oldfield Edward H.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Carney complex (CNC) is a familial neoplasia syndrome that is associated with pituitary-associated hypersecretion of growth hormone (GH) (acromegaly). The underlying cause of pituitary GH hypersecretion and its management have been incompletely defined.

OBJECTIVE: To provide biological insight into CNC-associated pituitary pathology and improve management, we analyzed findings in CNC patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery.

METHODS: Consecutive CNC patients at the National Institutes of Health with acromegaly and imaging evidence of a pituitary adenoma(s) who underwent transsphenoidal resection of tumor(s) were included. Prospectively acquired magnetic resonance imaging and biochemical, surgical, and histological data were analyzed.

RESULTS: Seven acromegalic CNC patients (2 male, 5 female) were included. The mean age at surgery was 29.7 years (range, 18-44 years). The mean follow-up was 4.7 years (range, 0.2-129 months). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a single pituitary adenoma in 4 patients and multiple pituitary adenomas in 3 patients. Whereas patients with single discrete pituitary adenomas underwent selective adenomectomy, patients with multiple adenomas underwent selective adenomectomy of multiple tumors, as well as partial or total hypophysectomy. All adenomas were either GH and prolactin positive or exclusively prolactin positive. Pituitary tissue surrounding the adenomas in patients with multiple adenomas revealed hyperplastic GH- and prolactin-positive tissue.

CONCLUSION: CNC-associated acromegaly results from variable pituitary pathology, including a single GH-secreting adenoma or multiple GH-secreting adenomas and/or GH hypersecretion of the pituitary gland surrounding multiple adenomas. Although selective adenomectomy is the preferred treatment for cases of GH-secreting adenomas, multiple adenomas with associated pituitary gland GH hypersecretion may require partial or complete hypophysectomy to achieve biochemical remission.
A multi-scale computational model of the effects of TMS on motor cortex
Authors: Seo Hyeon , Schaworonkow Natalie , Jun Sung Chan , Triesch Jochen
Published: August 2016

The detailed biophysical mechanisms through which transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) activates cortical circuits are still not fully understood. Here we present a multi-scale computational model to describe and explain the activation of different cell types in motor cortex due to transcranial magnetic stimulation. Our model determines precise electric fields based on an individual head model derived from magnetic resonance imaging and calculates how these electric fields activate morphologically detailed models of different neuron types. We predict detailed neural activation patterns for different coil orientations consistent with experimental findings. Beyond this, our model allows us to predict activation thresholds for individual neurons and precise initiation sites of individual action potentials on the neurons’ complex morphologies. Specifically, our model predicts that cortical layer 3 pyramidal neurons are generally easier to stimulate than layer 5 pyramidal neurons, thereby explaining the lower stimulation thresholds observed for I-waves compared to D-waves. It also predicts differences in the regions of activated cortical layer 5 and layer 3 pyramidal cells depending on coil orientation. Finally, it predicts that under standard stimulation conditions, action potentials are mostly generated at the axon initial segment of corctial pyramidal cells, with a much less important activation site being the part of a layer 5 pyramidal cell axon where it crosses the boundary between grey matter and white matter. In conclusion, our computational model offers a detailed account of the mechanisms through which TMS activates different cortical cell types, paving the way for more targeted application of TMS based on individual brain morphology in clinical and basic research settings.
On the phenomenological theory of magnetic storms
Authors: Гульельми Анатолий , Guglielmi Anatol
Published: August 2016

This article addresses methodical issues concerning the modeling of the Dst variation in a geomagnetic storm. We describe the so-called RBM (Russell — Burton — McPherron) model representing an ordinary differential equation with solutions simulating the relation between the Dst variation and the azimuthal component of the interplanetary electric field. Special attention is paid to the threshold nature of Dst variation excitation. We would like to emphasize the necessity of stochastic extension of the RBM model by taking into account fluctuations inherent to any physical system. The integral representation of a Dst variation bifurcation diagram is given. It enables us to account for the effect of fluctuations that eliminate the diagram root singularity and cause a threshold point shift. The Dst variation is shown to be typical of the wide class of threshold phenomena similar to second-order phase transitions. We draw an analogy with threshold phenomena in Earth’s magnetosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. In addition, we briefly discuss the issue about soft and hard passages through the threshold, as well as about explosive instability in geophysical media.
Intraspecific variation in wing shape of Poecilobothrus regalis (Meigen, 1824) (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
Authors: Chursina Mariya A. , Negrobov Oleg P.
Published: August 2016

A study of 186 specimens of Poecilobothrus regalis was conducted in order to examine intraspecific variability of wing shape. The wing shape variation was analyzed using geometric morphometrics analyses. Significant differences in the structure of wing were found both between sexes and between populations. Differences between sexes were observed in the structure of the medium portion of wing. The first extracted canonical variate of geographic variation showed a moderately linear association with latitude and average temperature of February and March. The second canonical variate was correlated with longitude and values of average wind flow velocity. Allometric relationships were weak both between populations and sexes.
MOGUL AAC : The unique way to support complex communication needs for children in Autism Spectrum
Authors: Park Jung Eun Jeanne ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: August 2016

The use of AAC (Argumentative Alternative Communication) is somewhat universal for children in autism spectrum for the daily use at school and home in United States. In United States, there are many applications of AAC with different systematic approaches, while representing AAC language has been studied to find out the effectiveness of different visual language of AAC in early intervention with children with communication needs. Recently, study of Worah, McNaughton, Light & Benedek-Wood (2015) shows that “most current symbol sets have been found to be difficult for very young children to learn and use” (Light & Drager, 2002, 2007), because children use vocabularies strongly with their personal understanding of a concept and will differ from that of an adult (Light, Drager, Curran, Hayes, Kristiansen, Lewis, et al., 2005; Light & Drager, 2007). In response to such findings about current AAC visual language system in general, MOGUL AAC has been developed with careful consideration of personal choice for language selection for development. MOGUL AAC has its unique approach: the hyper-customization system, which allows children to have their own personal visual language system for their communicational needs.
Transparency and Name Agreement of Korean Ewha-AAC symbols
Authors: Yeon SeokJeong , Kim YoungTae , Park Eun Hye ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: August 2016

Background and Objectives: This study described the preliminary outcome data of transparency and name agreement of Korean Ewha-AAC Symbols, developed for individuals who speak Korean with complex communication needs. The purpose of the study was to address the following question: Is there any difference as a type of grammatical classes(noun, verb, and adjective) on percent correct transparency and name agreement? Method: Twenty individuals who speak Korean composed of preschool children with normally developing participated in this study. For the experimental task, a total of 66 items (26 nouns, 23 verbs, and 17 adjectives) were selected from list of words frequently used by young children. The participants were presented with each target symbol on 3×2 inch card at a time. Each participants were asked to guess the meaning of the symbols. Results: For transparency, Ewha-AAC symbols representing nouns were more transparent than symbols representing verbs and adjectives. But there was no significant difference between verbs and adjectives. For name agreement, Ewha-AAC symbols representing nouns were named more accurately than symbols representing verbs and adjectives. And symbols representing verbs were named more accurately than symbols representing adjectives.
Spatial Genetic Structure within Populations of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz: Comparative Analysis of the Self-incompatibility Locus and Nuclear Microsatellites
Authors: Jankowska-Wroblewska Sandra , Warmbier Joanna , Burczyk Jaroslaw
Published: August 2016

Distribution of genetic diversity among and within plant populations may depend on the mating system and the mechanisms underlying the efficiency of pollen and seed dispersal. In self-incompatible species, negative frequency-dependent selection acting on the self-incompatibility locus is expected to decrease intensity of spatial genetic structure (SGS) and to reduce population differentiation. We investigated two populations (peripheral and more central) of wild service tree (Sorbus torminalis(L.) Crantz), a self-incompatible, scattered tree species to test the differences in population differentiation and spatial genetic structure assessed at the self-incompatibility locus and neutral nuclear microsatellites. Although, both populations exhibited similar levels of genetic diversity regardless of the marker type, significant differentiation was noticed. Differences betweenFSTandRSTsuggested that in the case of microsatellites both mutations and drift were responsible for the observed differentiation level, but in the case of theS-RNaselocus drift played a major role. Microsatellites indicated a similar and significant level of spatial genetic structure in both populations; however, at theS-RNaselocus significant spatial genetic structure was found only in the fragmented population located at the north-eastern species range limits. Differences in SGS between the populations detected at the self-incompatibility locus were attributed mainly to the differences in fragmentation and population history.
Selected Issues Concerning Degradation of Material in the Production of Injection Molded Plastic Components
Authors: Jałbrzykowski Marek
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the problem of thermal degradation of thermoplastic materials processed using the injection method. Attention was paid to the issue of the optimal selection of a dye for modifying the base materials. For the selected materials and dyes, derivatograph tests were performed in order to assess their thermal characteristics and breakdown kinetics. Additionally, tribological tests and microscope observations of selected samples were performed. The obtained test results suggest a diverse level of thermal processes in the analyzed materials. This is crucial for the appropriate selection of dyes for plastic materials. As it turned out, the tribological properties of materials can also influence the technological quality of the injected alloy.
On submersion and immersion submanifolds of a quaternionic projective space
Authors: Abedi Esmail , Nazari Zahra
Published: August 2016

We study submanifolds of a quaternionic projective space, it is of great interest how to pull down some formulae deduced for submanifolds of a sphere to those for submanifolds of a quaternionic projective space.
Treading in the footsteps of literary heroes: an autoethnography
Authors: Brown Lorraine
Published: August 2016

Literary tourism is an increasingly important market within the field of cultural and heritage tourism. However, it is under-represented in the literature. Still not enough is known about the motivations and experiences of literary tourists. This paper offers an autoethnographic account of a literary tourist trip toLe Café Les Deux Magots, a place associated with the writers and philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. The paper discusses the motivations for becoming a literary pilgrim, and describes the meaning attached to the place visited. It underscores the desire for connection with place and reflects on how this is achieved.
Dimensions of Gang Issues at the National and International Level
Authors: Svatošová Veronika , Smolík Josef
Published: August 2016

The main objective of this paper is to define the main dimensions of gang, its structure, mutual connections and influence on the contemporary society at national and international level. This paper is based on knowledge about the issues of gang and presents the main differences and characteristics of formalized and non-formalized gang and the main identical and different characters. It comes from a study of current knowledge on the issue of gang and discusses its general forms. In this paper, a discussion of existing studies and typologies of these peculiar social groups, including an explanation is provided. The next section will introduce the particular qualities of the crimes committed by (mostly youth) gangs and explain their possible causes. The main findings of the paper is putting relations between formalized and non-formalized gang and their influence on the present and future society in the social, psychological, economic, ethnic and criminal dimension.
The role of dynamic systems theory in motor development research: how does theory inform practice and what are the potential implications for autism spectrum disorder?
Authors: Colombo-Dougovito Andrew M.
Published: August 2016

Dynamic systems theory (DST) outlines three constraints (i.e. individual, task, and environment) that influence the emergence of behavior. These constraints interact with one another to self-organize and create a spontaneous behavior. For many researchers studying motor development, this spontaneous behavior refers to the production of motor movement. DST provides an explanation for the variability and spontaneous movement that occurs from individual to individual. While this theory is accepted as one of the major explanations of motor development, it is unknown how it is being utilized to inform the research on motor development or the development of interventions. In this review, the author found 18 instances in the literature where DST had been used to analyze, test, or manipulate motor patterns and movement. Overall, the studies report a positive effect from the manipulation of constraints with respect to a change in motor pattern. Only one study was found that sought to positively improve behavior through the directed use of constraints; the majority of studies sought to understand the influence constraints have on the production of movement.
Dual-heritage households: Food, culture, and re-membering in Hamilton, New Zealand
Authors: Graham Rebekah , Hodgetts Darrin , Stolte Ottilie
Published: August 2016

Food is deeply connected to processes of re-membering, identity construction, the texturing of shared spaces, and social relationships. This case-comparative research focusses on how everyday food-related practices (sourcing, preparing, serving and eating) reproduce aspects of culture and communal ways of being. We will consider the food practices of three dual-heritage households who took part in a series of biographical, ‘go-along’, ‘eat-along’ and photo-elicitation interviews. Particular attention is paid to the ways in which food is intimately interwoven with familial relationships, the reproduction of hybrid ways of being, and connecting the present, past, and future.
‘Slow’ Urban Development, the History and the Future of Poblenou, 22. District of Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Adorján Anna
Published: August 2016

Urban renewal projects are based on long-term strategies and huge economical resources. It takes a lot of time to successfully regenerate an abandoned area, create a new centre, infrastructure, businesses, communities. It also needs the kind of systematic and conscious focus that we see in Germany and Scandinavia. While Spain was one of the most touched countries of the economical crisis, it still succeeded at presenting interesting urban development initiatives.

One example is the follow-up of the Olympic development in Barcelona, 22@Barcelona project. I would like to introduce the ongoing project’s main objectives and processes and elaborate on the most interesting and valuable results from this project to consider for the present strategy of brownfield renewal in Hungary.
Long-term Green Innovation Opportunities Within the Hungarian District Heating Sector Towards 2030
Authors: Horvath Balint , Borocz Maria , Zsarnoczai Sandor , Fogarassy Csaba
Published: August 2016

Natural gas is still the primary input of the Hungarian heating and cooling systems, therefore it still makes most of the overheads. One of the main obstacles of a competitive district heating system is the public opinion which still considers this service more expensive than the traditional heating forms. According to the absolute numbers this assumption might be valid but from a more accurate economic perspective, heat production has more aspects to stress. Most people forget about the simple fact that the maintenance costs of natural gas based systems are rather outsourced to the consumer than in the case of district heating. Furthermore, the uneven rate of the fixed and variable costs of this technology does not prove to be optimal for service developments. Investigating the future tendencies highlight that encouraging the efficiency improvement of district heating and the spread of technological innovation in the sector does not belong to the top priorities. Still, avoiding this problem it could lead serious deadweight losses in the case of the heating sector.
Development and Subsidization Possibilities for Efficient Energy Provision in the Hungarian Built Environment Within the 2021-2030 EU Programming Period
Authors: Borocz Maria
Published: August 2016

The NER300 program, founded by the European Commission, is one of the world’s largest initiatives for funding low-carbon innovation projects like renewable energy development or carbon capture and storage. During the operation of this program there has been 38 supported projects from more than 2 billion Euros. The European Union announced that they are willing to maintain this mechanism for the next programming period from 2021 to 2030 on the name “NER400”. According to the early estimations the available amount of funds is going to cover more than 9 billion EUR for the member states. The trend for smart metering systems throughout Europe is well-known among the countries. Still, considering the foreseeable EU regulations regarding the dissemination of these devices. The present study provides with a review of the European best practices for setting smart metering systems and studies the recent Hungarian endeavors for running pilot projects in this field.
The Placement of Post-pyloric Feeding Tubes Using DRX-Revolution Mobile X-Ray System in an ICU. A Case Series
Authors: Koyfman Leonid , Schwartz Andrei , Benjamin Yair , Smolikov Alexander , Klein Moti , Brotfain Evgeni
Published: August 2016

Enteral nutrition is crucial for ensuring that critically ill patients have a proper intake of food, water, and medicine. Methods to ensure this requirement should be initiated as early as possible. The use of PPF has several advantages compared to the use of a nasogastric feeding tube. In the present paper, the cases of three critically ill patients with a nonfunctional gastrointestinal system on admission to ICU, are detailed. Enteral feeding through a nasogastric tube by prokinetic agent therapy had been unsuccessful. The bedside placement of a post-pyloric feeding tube by the DRX-Revolution X-ray system is described.
High Grade Uterine and Rectal Prolapse
Authors: Molnar Călin , Tătaru Octavian-Sabin , Butiurcă Vlad-Olimpiu , Molnar Varlam-Claudiu
Published: August 2016

Introduction: Pelvic floor hernias are encountered especially in elderly women. A combined genital, bladder, and rectal prolapse poses treatment challenges in aged women.

Case presentation: We present the case of an 88 year-old patient, complaining of an intravaginal mass protruding for the last 3 months, rectal prolapse that occurred two weeks before admittance, accompanied by stress incontinence of urine and chronic constipation. Examination revealed a uterine prolapse with cystocele and a fourth grade rectal prolapse. We decided on a perianal and transvaginal approach, performing preliminary dilatation and curettage, cervix amputation, anterior colporrhaphy and colpoperineorrhaphy (Manchester procedure) with perineal rectosigmoidectomy using the LigaSure™ device, and coloanal manual anastomosis. Postoperatively the patient had no symptoms of stress urinary incontinence, bowel movement resumed in the fourth postoperative day, and the patient was discharged after seven days. One month after surgery the patient has both urinary and fecal continence, with no relapse in pelvic organ prolapse.

Conclusions: Encountering genital, bladder, and rectal prolapse in the same patient is quite rare, and its treatment can be difficult in aged women. Therefore, a less invasive surgical procedure, using the transvaginal approach, and a genital sparing surgery could be the key in cases like this.
Normal and abnormal vaginal microbiota
Authors: Mendling Werner
Published: August 2016

The normal and abnormal vaginal microbiome are an ecosystem of up to 200 species influenced by genetic, ethnic, environmental and behavioral factors. Cultural methods release only a small clinically unimportant spectrum. Lactobacilli are the most dominant and maintain a pH value between 3.8 and 4.5. They support a defense system against dysbiosis and infections to care for a healthy outer and inner genital tract, a balanced restitution after intercourse and normal pregnancy and childbirth. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most frequent dysbiosis with a lack of lactobacilli and an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria. Special Gardnerella vaginalis strains work together with Atopobium vaginae, Clostridiales and others, but also Lactobacillus iners in a vaginal polymicrobial biofilm, which is sexually transmitted and cannot be destroyed by the recommended antibiotics.
Chancen und Risiken von e-Health in der Labormedizin
Authors: Orth Matthias , Aufenanger Johannes , Hoffmann Georg , Lichtinghagen Ralf , Stiegler Yuriko , Peetz Dirk , für die Sektion Labormanagement der Deutschen Vereinten Gese
Published: August 2016

Aus dem Lifestyle- und Wellnessbereich werden den Kunden vielfältige Apps angeboten, die die Kundendaten ansprechend digital präsentieren. Auch der politische Wille fordert die Digitalisierung in der Medizin mit dem sog. „E-Health-Gesetz“. In der nationalen elektronischen Patientenakte sollen dazu auch Laborbefunde gespeichert werden. Dafür notwendig ist allerdings eine ausreichende Harmonisierung von Prä-Präanalytik (Terminologie, Testprofile, Testungsintervalle), Präanalytik (Abnahmezeiten, Patientenvorbereitung, Probentransport und Probenlagerung), Analytik (Probenqualität, Methode, Kalibration, Qualitätssicherung) bis hin zur Postanalytik (Einheiten, Datenformate, Referenzintervalle, Entscheidungswerte). Diese Harmonisierung kann aufgrund der vielen verschiedenen Laboruntersuchungen und parameterspezifischen Besonderheiten trotz weitreichender nationaler und internationaler Aktivitäten noch nicht als abgeschlossen gelten. Andere Herausforderungen elektronischer Patientenakten liegen bei der Datensicherheit (d.h. der Integrität der Laborbefunde) und dem Datenschutz unter Berücksichtigung der informationellen Selbstbestimmung der Patienten und weiterer Gesetze wie dem Gendiagnostikgesetz (GenDG).

Empfehlung:

Wir empfehlen aus Gründen der Patientensicherheit, sich bei der nationalen elektronischen Patientenakte auf wenige ausgewählte Laborbefunde zu beschränken, die unmittelbar zur Dosisanpassung von Medikamenten notwendig sind und die so den elektronischen Medikationsplan unterstützen.
Are Alternative Information Services Compensating for Dysfunctional School Libraries in South Africa? The Case of Limpopo Province
Authors: Mojapelo Samuel Maredi
Published: August 2016

Owing to uneven resource-provisioning during the apartheid era, dysfunctional library facilities are a major concern in the majority of South African schools. Since only 7 % of state schools have functional school libraries, teaching and learning are negatively affected. The article is limited to just one part of a research project which investigated the
Trends in the internationalization of European higher education in a convergence perspective
Authors: Dima Alina Mihaela , Vasilache Simona
Published: August 2016

The paper proposes several indicators for the degree of convergence in the internationalization of European higher education, based on previous research on the topic and on the availability of data in the large repositories, such as Eurostat. Starting from longitudinal data series built using the values of the selected indicators in 2015; we have grouped European higher education systems in clusters, based on their similarity, that is, potential for medium term convergence. These findings may serve as a guiding methodology for further, more detailed investigations on convergence and divergence of higher education systems in Europe. The main limitations arise from the availability of data, more specifically from the lack of in-depth data collection at the European level.
Crystal structure of poly-[aqua-μ
2-aqua-μ
2-(4,4′-oxybis(benzoato)-κ
4
O,O′:O′′,O′′′)cadmium(II)], C14H12O7Cd
Authors: Guang-Ming Bao , Wei Xiao , Ting-Ting Sun , Chun-Yan Hu , Yi-Hua Wang , Hou-Qun Yuan
Published: August 2016

C14H12O7Cd, orthorhombic, Ima2 (no. 46), a = 30.715(3) Å, b = 7.8833(8) Å, c = 5.8202(6) Å, V = 1409.3(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0159, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0400, T = 296(2) K.
Value of Professional Property Managers in Residential Project Development
Authors: Yuen C. B. , Li Teresa
Published: August 2016

Property management has often been described as an after-sale service because the participation of professional property managers is only required upon completion of the building. Recently, however, property management has become an integral part of project development based on its value. These days, managing recreational facilities such as residents’ clubs, gyms and swimming pools, given the frequent use of electronic installations, no longer falls under basic caretaking services. The early detection of hidden problems such as poor quality concealed cables, conduits and pipes and the improper selection of building materials saves time and money in subsequent maintenance and repair work, simultaneously reducing any inconvenience experienced by end-users due to a breakdown in services or defective rectification.

Environmental protection and energy conservation are becoming increasingly important in our daily lives, and thus are unavoidable agendas in the design and construction of buildings, be they domestic, commercial or industrial. The input of professional property managers based on their foresight and past work experience with end-users is crucial to the success of such schemes. This paper reviews the value of professional property managers in residential project development.
This Is What a Syrian City’s First Free Library Looks Like
Authors: Daragahi Borzou , Dadouch Sarah
Published: August 2016

In a war-ravaged suburb of Damascus, rebel fighters nurture a library of 15,000 books to keep the hopes of revolution alive.
Fungal Diversity of Maize (Zea Mays L.) Grains
Authors: Gulbis Kaspars , Bankina Biruta , Bimšteina Gunita , Neusa-Luca Ingrīda , Roga Ance , Fridmanis Dāvids
Published: August 2016

Maize is becoming more and more important crop for dairy farming as forage and as substrate for biogas production. The mycotoxin producing fungi can spoil feed, reduce cattle productivity and cause health problems. The aim of this research was to study the mycoflora of maize grains in order to clarify the fungal composition and verify the presence of potential mycotoxin producing fungi. The grain samples were collected from different maize hybrid performance trial in Research and Study farm “Vecauce” of Latvia University of Agriculture in 2014. The fungi from 14 genera were isolated from surface sterilized grains. The most abundant were Alternaria, Fusarium and Penicillium spp. Mycotoxin producing fungi are present in maize grain mycoflora, and there is a risk that maize production can contain mycotoxins.
Perceived food environment – eine qualitativ-explorative Analyse der wahrgenommenen Ernährungsumgebung bei Senioren
Authors: Rüter Jana , Loss Julika
Published: August 2016

Ernährungsverhalten allein durch Maßnahmen der Verhaltensprävention zu verbessern, scheint nicht ausreichend zu sein, da neben individuellen Faktoren wie Ernährungswissen, -kompetenzen und Motivation auch die Ernährungsumgebung einen zentralen Einfluss auf Ernährungsgewohnheiten hat. Der Beitrag beschreibt ein Mehr-Ebenen-Modell der Ernährungsumgebung und stellt exemplarisch Ergebnisse aus einer explorativen Studie mit Senioren zur wahrgenommenen Ernährungsumgebung vor.
Comparision in the solvent extraction behavior of uranium (VI) in some trialkyl phosphates in ionic liquid
Authors: Rama R. , Rout Alok , Venkatesan K. A. , Antony M. P. , Suresh A.
Published: August 2016

Higher homologs of trialkyl phosphates (TAlP) are proposed for reprocessing of fast reactor fuels. Solvent extraction behavior of U(VI) from nitric acid medium was studied in some TAlP present in 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ([C8mim][NTf2]) ionic liquid. The extractants investigated were tri-n-propylphosphate (TPP), tri-n-butylphosphate (TBP), tri-n-amylphosphate (TAP), tri-n-octylphosphate (TOP), tri-iso-amylphosphate (TIAP) and tri-iso-butylphosphate (TIBP). The extraction of uranium (VI) was investigated as a function of various parameters, such as the equilibration time, [HNO3], [TAlP], temperature and nature of ionic liquid cation. The distribution ratios of U(VI) increased with an increase in the concentration of nitric acid and decreases in the order TOP>TAP~ TIAP>TBP~TIBP>TPP. The stoichiometry of the extraction was determined by slope analysis of the extraction data. Distribution ratios of U (VI) were determined at various temperatures and the thermodynamic parameters were derived. Quantitative stripping of uranium from the loaded ionic liquid phase was achieved using dilute nitric acid.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor: a mediator of inflammation-associated neurogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chen Jian-jiao , Wang Tao , An Cai-di , Jiang Chun-yan , Zhao Jie , Li Shao
Published: August 2016

In early- or late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), inflammation, which is triggered by pathologic conditions, influences the progression of neurodegeneration. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has emerged as a crucial mediator of neurogenesis, because it exhibits a remarkable activity-dependent regulation of expression, which suggests that it may link inflammation to neurogenesis. Emerging evidence suggests that acute and chronic inflammation in AD differentially modulates neurotrophin functions, which are related to the roles of inflammation in neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. Recent studies also indicate novel mechanisms of BDNF-mediated neuroprotection, including the modulation of autophagy. Numerous research studies have demonstrated reverse parallel alterations between proinflammatory cytokines and BDNF during neurodegeneration; thus, we hypothesize that one mechanism that underlies the negative impact of chronic inflammation on neurogenesis is the reduction of BDNF production and function by proinflammatory cytokines.
Ornithocenosis Structure in Fresh and Wet Sudubravas of Kyiv Polissya during the Breeding Period
Authors: Plyha A. V.
Published: August 2016

This research was carried out in Kyiv Polissya geobotanical province, in one of most common woods type - fresh and wet sudubravas. Its purpose is to determine ornithocenosis structure in different age groups of this type of forest. To achieve that, forest bird species lists were composed, their population density and that of ecological groups of birds were calculated. In the course of the research in the breeding periods of 2013-2014, two-time surveys were carried out on 12 survey routes of total length 33 km. For further analysis, forests were divided into age groups: 0-20 years, 20-40 years, 40-60 years, 60-80 years, 80-100 years and forests over 100 years. Altogether 53 bird species were found. Species lists were poorest in the forests of 0-20 years (18 species), and richest in the forests over 100 years (39 species). Minimal population density was 473 individuals per square kilometer in the youngest forest age group of 0-20 years, maximal - 2155 individuals per square kilometer in pine forests aged over 100 years. Analysis of different population densities of ecological groups reveals steadily growing numbers of hollow-nesting birds and tree-nesting birds in accordance with aging of the forests. In older forests hollow-nesting birds constitute an absolute majority. Population density of another ecological group shows no such direct tendency.
The Analysis of Heavy Metal Concentrations in Eggs of Collared Flycatchers, Ficedula Albicollis (Passeriformes, Muscicapidae), and Tits, Parus Major, Parus Caeruleus (Passeriformes, Paridae), in Different Areas of North-Eastern Ukraine
Authors: Chaplygina A. B. , Yuzyk D. I.
Published: August 2016

Collared flycatchers (Ficedula albicollis Temminck, 1815), have more opportunities to accumulate heavy metals due to migration but they are more resistant to contamination in contrast to tits, (Parus major Linnaeus, 1758, Parus caeruleus Linnaeus, 1758). This research aimed to detect concentrations of some trace elements in eggs of the collared flycatcher, great tit and blue tit in different areas. There were found differences in heavy metal concentrations in the eggs among species and study areas. For collared flycatchers there were not established consistent patterns of changes in element concentrations among areas. The highest heavy metal levels were found in tits in samples of egg contents from a forest park (Pb - 3.1410 ± 0.3249, Cu - 19.3290 ± 1.4840, Zn - 66.9612 ± 17.6665, Fe - 249.5513 ± 40.2800, Mn - 6.9032 ± 0.2946, Ca - 8298.3570 ± 0.1080, Sr - 17.6032 ± 0.7512, Ni - 0.5177 ± 0.0220). The lowest concentrations were found in egg contents of tits in Hetmanskyi National Nature Park (Cu - 4.3492 ± 0.2079, Fe - 44.6647 ± 0.2627, Mn - 1.3194 ± 0.2374, Ca - 998.7001 ± 0.0006, Ni - 0.2443 ± 0.0439, Cr - 0.1466 ± 0.0424). The results indicate that heavy metals accumulated differently in shells and contents of eggs of collared flycatchers and tits in each of the study area. Some of microelements (zinc, mercury, iron, manganese, selenium and iodine) in small amounts are required for normal growth and development of birds. Heavy metal concentrations in egg shells and egg contents of all species did not exceed permissible levels.
High-Frequency Waves in a Random Distribution of Metallic Nanoparticles in an External Magnetic Field
Authors: Moradi Afshin
Published: August 2016

Propagation of magnetoplasma waves at an angle to a static magnetic field is studied for a random distribution of spherical metallic nanoparticles. A general analytical expression for dispersion relation of the system is derived and useful expressions are obtained in the limiting cases. It is found that the interaction between longitudinal and transverse modes leads to coupled modes in the vicinity of the frequency

f
 
+
 
ξ

ω
p

,

$\sqrt {f\, + \,\xi } {\omega _p},$

where ξ is the ratio of the volume occupied by all the nanoparticles to the entire volume, ω

p
the plasma frequency of electrons inside a nanoparticle, and f a geometrical factor of order unity (1/3 for spherical nanoparticles).
Bäcklund Transformation and Soliton Solutions for a (3+1)-Dimensional Variable-Coefficient Breaking Soliton Equation
Authors: Zhao Chen , Gao Yi-Tian , Lan Zhong-Zhou , Yang Jin-Wei
Published: August 2016

In this article, a (3+1)-dimensional variable-coefficient breaking soliton equation is investigated. Based on the Bell polynomials and symbolic computation, the bilinear forms and Bäcklund transformation for the equation are derived. One-, two-, and three-soliton solutions are obtained via the Hirota method. N-soliton solutions are also constructed. Propagation characteristics and interaction behaviors of the solitons are discussed graphically: (i) solitonic direction and position depend on the sign of the wave numbers; (ii) shapes of the multisoliton interactions in the scaled space and time coordinates are affected by the variable coefficients; (iii) multisoliton interactions are elastic for that the velocity and amplitude of each soliton remain unchanged after each interaction except for a phase shift.
The Coming Crisis of Scientific and Technological Expertise in South Korea
Authors: Bae Seong-O , Lie John
Published: August 2016

South Korea has shifted from a relatively well-educated but poorly remunerated workforce to a highly skilled and compensated one in high-value-added industries. This paper analyzes the South Korean government’s science and technology policy and the supply of scientists and engineers in emerging industries. We note a potential shortfall of skilled talent in the near future.
Towards a Pedagogy of Asian American Public History
Authors: Lau Chrissy Yee
Published: August 2016

A pedagogical experiment in Asian American History courses partnered classes with the Cornell University Library. Students using its Japanese American Relocation Center Records archive learned to apply historical analysis through an intersectional framework of race, class, gender, and generation. Their finished projects formed a digital exhibition—a research tool accessible to the wider public.
“History Could Save Verdugo Hills Golf Course”
Authors: deGuzman Jean-Paul R.
Published: August 2016

This study demonstrates how the campaign to win Historic Cultural Monument status for the site of a World War II enemy-alien detention station was able to achieve its goal by working with unlikely allies with different agendas. The goal of the core group, the Tuna Canyon Detention Station or TCDS Coalition, was monument status to bring greater attention to the injustices of wartime prejudice and serve as a powerful reminder to ensure such actions would not occur again. The coalition succeeded in educating the public about the site’s historical significance.
Decarbonizing the Energy Supply May Increase Energy Demand
Authors: York Richard
Published: August 2016

In order to limit human impact on the global climate, it is necessary to decarbonize the energy supply of nations by adopting clean energy sources to replace fossil fuels. However, as I show here on the basis of an analysis of cross-national time-series data for the past five decades, reducing the carbon intensity of overall energy use is associated with higher energy use, and reducing the carbon intensity of electricity production is associated with higher electricity production. These findings suggest that adding noncarbon and low-carbon energy generation capacity may be connected with processes that spur energy demand. This has important environmental implications, since alternative energy sources have serious environmental impacts of their own. The policy challenge is to ensure that clean energy sources replace rather than add to carbon-based energy.