bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NADP-dependent malic enzyme 1 participates in the abscisic acid response in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Arias Cintia L. , Pavlovic Tatiana , Torcolese Giuliana , Badia Mariana B. , Gismondi Mauro , Maurino Verónica G. , Andreo Carlos S. , Drincovich María F. , Gerrard Wheeler Mariel C. , Saigo Mariana
Published: June 2018

Arabidopsis thaliana possesses three cytosolic (NADP-ME1-3) and one plastidic (NADP-ME4) NADP-dependent malic enzymes. NADP-ME2 and-ME4 show constitutive expression, in contrast to NADP-ME1 and-ME3, which are restricted to particular tissues. Here, we show that NADP-ME1 transcript and protein were almost undetectable during normal vegetative growth, but gradually increased and reached levels higher than those of the other isoforms in the latest stages of seed development. Accordingly, in knockout nadp-me1 mature seeds the total NADP-ME activity was significantly lower than in wild type mature seeds. The phenotypic analysis of nadp-me1 plants indicated alterations of seed viability and germination. Besides, the treatment with abscisic acid (ABA), NaCl and mannitol specifically induced the accumulation of NADP-ME1 in seedlings. In line with this, nadp-me1 plants show a weaker response of primary and lateral root length and stomatal opening to the presence of ABA.

The results suggest that NADP-ME1 plays a specialized role, linked to ABA signalling during the seed development as well as in the response to saline and osmotic stress.
Relationship between impulsivity, uncontrolled eating and body mass index: a hierarchical model
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Isabel , Neseliler Selin , Morys Filip , Dadar Mahsa , Yau Yvonne H.C. , Scala Stephanie G. , Zeighami Yashar , Sun Natalie , Collins D. Louis , Vainik Uku , Dagher Alain
Published: June 2018

Background

Impulsivity increases the risk for obesity and weight gain. However, the precise role of impulsivity in the aetiology of overeating behavior and obesity is currently unknown. Here we examined the relationships between personality-related measures of impulsivity, Uncontrolled Eating, BMI, and longitudinal weight changes. Additionally, we analyzed the associations between general impulsivity domains and brain cortical thickness to elucidate brain vulnerability factors related to weight gain.

Methods

Students in their first year of university - a risky period for weight gain - completed questionnaire measures of impulsivity and eating behavior at the beginning (N = 2318) of the school year. We also collected their weight at the end of the term (N = 1197). Impulsivity was divided into factors stress reactivity, reward sensitivity and lack of self-control. Using structural equation models, we tested the plausibility of a hierarchical relationship, in which impulsivity traits were associated with Uncontrolled Eating, which in turn predicted BMI and weight change. 71 participants underwent T1-weighted MRI to investigate the correlation between impulsivity and cortical thickness.

Results

Impulsivity traits showed positive correlations with Uncontrolled Eating. Higher scores in Uncontrolled Eating were in turn associated with higher BMI. None of the impulsivity-related measurements nor Uncontrolled Eating were correlated with longitudinal weight gain. Higher stress sensitivity was associated with increased cortical thickness in the superior temporal gyrus. Lack of self-control was positively associated with increased thickness in the superior medial frontal gyrus. Finally, higher reward sensitivity was associated with lower thickness in the inferior frontal gyrus.

Conclusion

The present study provides a comprehensive characterization of the relationships between different facets of impulsivity and obesity. We show that differences in impulsivity domains might be associated with BMI via Uncontrolled Eating. Our results might inform future clinical strategies aimed at fostering self-control abilities to prevent and/or treat unhealthy weight gain.
The N-cadherin interactome in primary cardiomyocytes as defined by quantitative proximity proteomics
Authors: Li Yang , Merkel Chelsea D. , Zeng Xuemei , Heier Jonathon A. , Cantrell Pamela S. , Sun Mai , Stolz Donna B. , Watkins Simon C. , Yates Nathan A. , Kwiatkowski Adam V.
Published: June 2018

The junctional complexes that couple cardiomyocytes must transmit the mechanical forces of contraction while maintaining adhesive homeostasis. The adherens junction (AJ) connects the actomyosin networks of neighboring cardiomyocytes and is required for proper heart function. Yet little is known about the molecular composition of the cardiomyocyte AJ or how it is organized to function under mechanical load. Here we define the architecture, dynamics and proteome of the cardiomyocyte AJ. Mouse neonatal cardiomyocytes assemble stable AJs along intercellular contacts with organizational and structural hallmarks similar to mature contacts. We combine quantitative mass spectrometry with proximity labeling to identify the N-cadherin (CDH2) interactome. We define over 350 proteins in this interactome, nearly 200 of which are unique to CDH2 and not part of the E-cadherin (CDH1) interactome. CDH2-specific interactors are comprised primarily of adaptor and adhesion proteins that promote junction specialization. Finally, we find evidence of dynamic interplay between AJ and Z-disc proteins. Together, our results provide novel insight into the cardiomyocyte AJ and provide a proteomic atlas for defining the molecular complexes that regulate cardiomyocyte intercellular adhesion.

Summary Statement

Proximity proteomics reveals a specific and specialized N-cadherin (CDH2) interactome along the cell-cell contacts of primary cardiomyocytes.
Carleson measure and Volterra type operators on weighted BMOA spaces
Authors: Qian Ruishen , Li Songxiao
Published: June 2018

Let μ be a nonnegative Borel measure on the unit disk

𝔻

{\mathbb{D}}

. In this paper, we investigate measures μ such that the weighted

BMOA

{\mathrm{BMOA}}

spaces are embedded boundedly or compactly into tent-type spaces

𝒯
φ
∞

⁢

(
μ
)

{\mathcal{T}_{\varphi}^{\infty}(\mu)}

. As an application, we characterize the boundedness and compactness of Volterra integral operators on the weighted

BMOA

{\mathrm{BMOA}}

space.
›Wirklichkeitsverlust‹, ›Wirklichkeitshunger‹ und »Neuer Realismus«
Authors: Gittel Benjamin
Published: June 2018

Literary Studies of contemporary works of literature, in the absence of a canon, are largely directed by order-making umbrella terms. Using the umbrella term ‘new realism’ as an example this study examines (1) its relationship with poetological discourses and discourses of a diagnosis of the present, (2) how the umbrella term’s attractiveness corresponds to its conceptual underdetermination, and (3) which different forms text analytical concepts of ‘new realism’ can take.
Die edition suhrkamp
Authors: Michalski Claudia
Published: June 2018

The article focuses on two important paratextual features of edition suhrkamp – its cover design and its seriality. In examining the complex relationship of these features both with respect to each other and to the image and content of edition suhrkamp, it can be shown that the paratext produces a surplus of meaning and thus allows the series to represent both the publishing firm of Suhrkamp and the “Suhrkamp Culture”.
Influence of disinfectant «Bi-des» on the sporulation on eimery oocyst of chicken
Authors: Golubtsova M.V. , Stybel V.V. , Sobolta A.G.
Published: June 2018

Eymeriosis (coccidiosis) is a protozoal disease of a poultry characterized by inhibition, loss of appetite, thirst, diarrhea, often with blood, anemia, nervous phenomena. Diseases are registered in the world everywhere, including in Ukraine. Regardless of its type eymeriosis is one of the most serious technological diseases of farm birds in developed countries. Sick animals excreted with oocysts, which are the source of invasion, and contaminated by them feed, water, litter, equipment of livestock buildings, objects of care, etc. are the factors of transmission. Infection with coccidia occurs in an elementary way by swallowing an oocyst with water or food. The results of the study of the des-invasive effect of the Bi-des preparation on oocysts of chicken eimery are presented. In the formulation of the proposed disinfectant, as ADR included: PGMG-hydrochloride and triamine and auxiliaries substances – cocamidopropyl-betaine and glutamic acid as well. Due to which this pharmaceutical combination has a cleansing effect. Researches of the effect of the «Bi-des» preparation on the process of sporulation of the oocyst E. tenella was carried out at concentrations of 1, 2 and 3% with exposition of one, two, three and four hours. It was found that the preparation of 1% concentration with  exposition of three and four hours caused the death of almost half of the oocyst eimery (44.98 and 47.9%). Sufficiently high oocystocidal effect (62.7–79.9%) were found at 2% disinfectant concentration with different exposition regimes. 3 hours exposition caused 100% lysis oocyst eimeria of chicken. It was established that using  the preparation caused visible destructive changes of morphology of the simplest and led to the static effect on the sporulation of the oocyst.
Πειστεον και Απολογητεον Zu den problemen der Überlieferung und der edition des Horaztextes
Authors: Borzsák István
Published: June 2018

Απολογητέον: The author defends the conservatism of his edition of Horace against his critics by proving that his reading of the manuscript texts is correct. In his opinion we should believe (πειστέον) the manuscripts, and should follow and explain, rather than modify their texts.
Tο δ' ειδεναι τι δεινον? (Sophokles: Die Τrachinierinnen, 459)
Authors: Krähling Edit
Published: June 2018

Sophocles' Trachiniae - similarly to his Oedipus - is a drama of responsibility and conflict unfolding from the sharp contrast between belief and knowing, appearance and reality. Those having the knowledge and those left without it, however, do not clash on the stage here: in Trachiniae, the conflict takes place between the stage and the auditorium. This is why the two protagonists, Heracles and Deianeira do not appear together, and this is the reason for the seemingly uncoordinated diptych-form of the play. Consequently, it is only the spectators that have certain knowledge - or perhaps not even they? The peculiar, frequently-disputed ending, that is, the incompleteness of the drama, turns suddenly all certainty into uncertainty for them, as well.
Metics in Athens
Authors: Németh György
Published: June 2018

At present we are aware of 8209 inhabitants of Attica who were of foreign origin (metoikoi), slaves, or freemen. The places of origin of 7367 are known. The foreign inhabitants of Attica were from 380 different cities or territories, but, in the 5th century B.C., the geographic horizon was largely limited to the member states of the Delian League and the states closest to Attica. Of those metoikoi whose occupations we know, comparatively few were craftsmen or traders (9.2%), and a much larger proportion practised intellectual occupations, as artists (18.4%) and orators, philosophers, poets (21%). The Athenians were encouraged to accept the metoikoi by the short-term profit expected from the poll-tax (metoikion) and the housing-rents.
Efecto de las podas sobre Arceuthobium spp. en bosques densos y semidensos de Pinus hartwegii (Lindl.)
Authors: Sotero-García Alma Inés , Arteaga-Reyes Tizbe Teresa , Martínez-Campos Ángel Roberto , Galicia Leopoldo
Published: June 2018

Los muérdagos son una de las principales plagas en bosques templados de México, y las podas se han implementado como una estrategia para su control y evitar su propagación. El objetivo fue determinar el efecto de las podas sobre las poblaciones de muérdago enano (Arceuthobium spp.) en bosque semidenso y denso del área natural protegida Nevado de Toluca, México. Se seleccionaron 26 parcelas en bosques densos y semidensos con poda y sin poda. En cada parcela se determinó el diámetro normal y la altura de los árboles, así como su porcentaje y grado de infestación, comparando sitios con poda y sin poda durante tres años de evaluación. Los bosques semidenso y denso corresponden a una sucesión secundaria y dirigida, respectivamente; con diferencias estadísticas (p < 0.05) entre la talla de los árboles podados y no podados. El porcentaje de árboles infestados por muérdago enano no mostró diferencias estadísticas significativas entre los tres periodos de evaluación, tanto en el bosque denso (4.7%) como semidenso (12.1%). Ambos tipos de bosque sin tratamiento fueron diferentes significativamente en el porcentaje de árboles infestados entre los tres periodos de evaluación, registrando los mayores porcentajes de árboles infestados en los grados de infección 1, 2 y 6, siendo las clases diamétricas ≤ 20 cm más susceptibles al ataque de este patógeno. Las podas reducen la incidencia de muérdago enano tanto en bosque semidenso como denso y su efecto fue permanente en el periodo evaluado.
They Don’t Care About Us! Care Personnel’s Perspectives on Ambient Assisted Living Technology Usage: Scenario-Based Survey Study
Authors: Offermann-van Heek Julia , Ziefle Martina
Published: June 2018

Background

Demographic change represents enormous burdens for the care sectors, resulting in high proportions of (older) people in need of care and a lack of care staff. Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) technologies have the potential to support the bottlenecks in care supply but are not yet in widespread use in professional care contexts.

Objective

The objective of our study was to investigate professional caregivers’ AAL technology acceptance and their perception regarding specific technologies, data handling, perceived benefits, and barriers. In particular, this study focuses on the perspectives on AAL technologies differing between care professionals working in diverse care contexts to examine the extent to which the care context influences the acceptance of assistive technologies.

Methods

A Web-based survey (N=170) was carried out focusing on professional caregivers including medical, geriatric, and disabled people’s caregivers. Based on a scenario, the participants were asked for their perceptions concerning specific technologies, specific types of gathered data, and potential benefits of and barriers to AAL technology usage.

Results

The care context significantly impacted the evaluations of AAL technologies (F14,220=2.514; P=.002). Professional caregivers of disabled people had a significantly more critical attitude toward AAL technologies than medical and geriatric caregivers, indicated (1) by being the only caregiver group that rejected evaluations of AAL technology acceptance (F2,118=4.570; P=.01) and specific technologies (F2,118=11.727; P<.001) applied for gathering data and (2) by the comparatively lowest agreements referring to the evaluations of data types (F2,118=4.073, P=.02) that are allowed to be gathered.

Conclusions

AAL technology acceptance is critical because of technology implementation reasons, especially in the care of people with disabilities. AAL technologies in care contexts have to be tailored to care professional’s needs and concerns (“care about us”). The results contribute to a broader understanding of professional caregivers’ needs referring to specific data and technology configurations and enclose major differences concerning diverse care contexts. Integrating these findings into user group-tailored technology concepts and communication strategies will support a sustainable adoption of AAL systems in professional care contexts.
Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Massive Open Online Course on Real World Evidence (Preprint)
Authors: Meinert Edward , Alturkistani Abrar , Brindley David , Wells Glenn , Car Josip
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Increasing number of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are being used to train learners at scale in various healthcare related skills. However, many challenges in course delivery require further understanding, for example, factors exploring the reasons for high MOOC dropout rates, recorded low social interaction between learners and the lack of understanding of the impact of a course facilitators’ presence in course engagement. There is a need to generate further evidence to explore these detriments to MOOC course delivery to enable enhanced course learning design.

OBJECTIVE

This protocol aims to describe the design of a study evaluating learners knowledge, skills and attitudes in a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) about data science for healthcare.

METHODS

This study will use two evaluation models: 1) The RE-AIM framework and the 2) Kirkpatrick model drawing data from pre and post-course surveys and post-MOOC semi-structured interviews. The primary goal of the evaluation is to appraise participants' knowledge, skills, and attitude after taking the MOOC.

RESULTS

A summary of the research findings will be reported through a peer-reviewed journal and will be presented at an international conference.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed multi-method evaluation of the MOOC was determined based on the MOOC’s aims and objectives and the methodological approaches used to evaluate this type of a course. The MOOC evaluation will help appraise the effectiveness of the MOOC in delivering its intended objectives.

CLINICALTRIAL

Ethics approval for this study was obtained from Imperial College London through the Education Ethics Review Process (EERP) (EERP1617-030).
Efficacy of an Online Self-Help Treatment for Comorbid Alcohol Misuse and Emotional Problems in Young Adults: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Frohlich Jona R , Rapinda Karli K , Schaub Michael P , Wenger Andreas , Baumgartner Christian , Johnson Edward A , O'Connor Roisin M , Vincent Norah , Blankers Matthijs , Ebert David D , Hadjistavropoulos Heather , Mackenzie Corey S , Keough Matthew T
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Alcohol misuse and emotional problems (ie, depression and anxiety) are highly comorbid among Canadian young adults. However, there is a lack of integrated, accessible, and evidence-based treatment options for these young adults.

OBJECTIVE

The main goal of this study is to develop and test the efficacy of an integrated, online self-help program designed to target both alcohol misuse and emotional problems.

METHODS

A two-arm randomized controlled trial design will be used to compare the efficacy of the online integrated treatment to a psychoeducational control group. A target sample of 214 participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to either condition. The integrated treatment will last 8 weeks, and participants will work through 12 modules. Modules will incorporate content based on principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Participants in the control group will receive links to psychoeducational resources and will have access to the full treatment after follow-up. The primary outcome will be the number of Canadian standard drinks consumed in the week leading up the assessment. Secondary outcomes of interest include symptoms of depression, anxiety, alcohol-related problems, quality of life, and use of other drugs. Assessments will be completed at 3 time-points: at baseline, at the end of treatment (ie, 8 weeks), and at follow-up (ie, 24 weeks). Upon completion, data will be analyzed using generalized linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Data collection began in June 2018 and will continue until January 2020. Final study results will be submitted for publication by July 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, there are no integrated treatments designed to target alcohol misuse and the range of emotional problems experienced by young adults. This research stands to provide an effective, accessible (ie, Web-based), and feasible option to treat the many struggling young adults in this country.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03406039; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03406039 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/72fDefnrh)

REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER

PRR1-10.2196/11298
Child Maltreatment Disclosure to a Text Messaging–Based Crisis Service: Content Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Schwab-Reese Laura , Kanuri Nitya , Cash Scottye
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Disclosure is a difficult but important process for victims of child maltreatment. There is limited research on child maltreatment disclosure. Young people have been reluctant to disclose victimization to adults, but short message service (SMS) crisis services may represent one novel method of engaging young people around sensitive topics.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine characteristics of child maltreatment disclosure to an SMS-based crisis service.

METHODS

We conducted a content analysis of all conversations (N=244) that resulted in a mandatory report by an SMS-based crisis service between October 2015 and July 2017. We coded characteristics of the disclosure process, including the reason for initial contact, phrase used to disclose abuse, perpetrator, type of abuse, and length of victimization. After identifying terms used by young people to disclose child abuse, we randomly selected and analyzed 50 conversations using those terms to determine if use of the terms differed between conversations that did and did not result in mandatory report.

RESULTS

Parents were the most common perpetrator. Physical abuse was the most common form of abuse discussed in the initial abuse disclosure (106/244, 43.4%), followed by psychological abuse (83/244, 34.0%), sexual abuse (38/244, 15.6%), and neglect (15/244, 6.1%). More than half of the texters discussed abuse or other significant family issues in the first message. An explicit description of the experience or definite language, such as abuse, rape, and molested, was common in disclosures.

CONCLUSIONS

Early disclosure, combined with explicit language, may suggest at least a portion of young victims are actively seeking safe ways to talk about their experiences with abuse, rather than incidentally sharing experiences while seeking support for other issues. SMS text messaging may be a valuable way to engage with young people around sensitive topics, but these approaches will require careful consideration in their development, implementation, and evaluation to ensure a positive experience for young people.
The enterprise risk profile - a financial and managerial health indicator - comparative study
Authors: Duțescu Adriana , Stroie Cristina
Published: June 2018

The current paper explores the role that risk profile analysis plays in maintaining the financial and managerial health of companies, within the reorganization process (a phase of insolvency procedure). During the modern era, the attempts to regulate insolvency proceedings, in order to redefine the principles governing them, have made possible a strong international collaboration and have generated a set of reforms designed to effectively address the global phenomenon of insolvency. The main purpose of the new regulations is to give a second chance to the honest debtor and to support him and his/her business in their recovery efforts. Thus, the reorganization of companies becomes an essential attribute of the free, functional market economy, based upon free competition. EU-wide statistics for 2016 show that over 200,000 businesses are annually affected by bankruptcy, which leads to the loss of more than 1.7 million jobs each year. The situation is particularly important for the economies of all countries involved, regardless of the development level. Because of constant business threats, managers should be aware at all times of the economic and financial indicators, seeking for the vulnerable areas of their business and for those with development potential. Identifying a company’s risk profile involves analyzing all the risks that affect the entity (market risk, bankruptcy, liquidity risk, operational risk etc.). A very important factor concerning the reorganization of a company is the tax policy and this paper further explores the subject, by focusing on Romania‘s business patterns, compared to the international framework, based upon the statistics for reorganization procedures, the applicable legal framework, the creditors' policy to encourage recovery etc. The purpose of this study is to highlight the causes that might limit the recovery of companies, during the reorganization procedures in Romania and, as a further research, to analyze the opportunity of developing an economic risk analysis model able to predict the future reorganization of companies. It would represent a barometer of financial and managerial health.
Marketing communication analysis of benetton PR campaigns
Authors: Incze Cynthia Bianka , Pocovnicu Alexandra , Vasilache Simona , Al Zain Nora-Labiba
Published: June 2018

In today’s economies the role of marketing cannot be underestimated, just the sole amount of media communications is astonishing not taking in consideration the different marketing and PR strategies involved. The most well-known tools include advertising, public relations, sales promotions, direct marketing and personal selling. There is an increasing number of advertisements that reach our attention by the presence of vulgarity, nudity or moral offenses. The aim of the article is to extensively review the literature of shock advertising namely shockvertising and to pinpoint its evolution in case of Benetton fashion brand. Shockvertising focuses on the idea of selling products through evoking terrifying and repulsive emotions. This type of advertising is used to sensitize people to religion, racism, war, poverty and other taboo topics. The descriptive method is used in order to describe such complex phenomena. The research is conducted in the form of a retrospective qualitative case study focusing on the historical events that are connected to the communications at Benetton. Through the following research a better understanding of shockvertising and its dynamics is reached and emotional reactions of a range of individuals is presented. In addition, the question of ethical considerations and the shock advertising effectiveness is analyzed.
Intergenerational gap dynamics
Authors: Radulescu Madalina Mirela , Ghinea Valentina Mihaela , Cantaragiu Ramona
Published: June 2018

Diversity, sustainability and change are words nowadays commonly encountered in business practice and theory. Businesses face multiple challenges in regards to complexity, innovation, creativity, digitalization and out of the box thinking. However, what underlies these challenges is dealing with a very diverse workforce comprised of multiple generations with very different takes in regards to employment, career development, team work, authority and many other organizational aspects. Basically, business continuity nowadays depends in a large degree on the ability to manage the workforce comprised of employees belonging to the Silents, the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y, and to prepare for the entrance on the labor market of Generation Z, the first generation that grew up in the digital world. Classification into generations is not without its contestations, but it continues nonetheless to be an important determinant of the way in which businesses design their human resources strategies. Based on a quantitative survey of the opinions of employees from various backgrounds in regards to intergenerational dynamics and conflicts, the present research uncovers the relevancy of the classification into generations for the human resources practices. The research also provides an insight into the main challenges that arise from the existence of differences in the points of view of these four main generations and concludes with a series of recommendations for human resources managers and leaders in general. The article’s innovativeness lies in the fact that it emphasizes the need for the development of human resources strategies which take in consideration all the generations in an equal manner, thus criticizing the current trends in human resources practice which rely on the development of programs specifically targeted to certain generations.
Developments of the CEE banking sectors after the financial crisis
Authors: Radulescu Magdalena , Banica Logica , Sinisi Crenguta Ileana
Published: June 2018

The banking sectors of the Central and Eastern European countries performed better than other developed European sectors during the crisis, due to their sound capitalization and a high profitability before the crisis. However, some of those banking systems were very hit in terms of the non-performing loans ratio or cost-to-income ratio. That is why we consider that it is interesting to see how they performed in terms of the banking performance ratios during the last years in the light of the new international capital adequacy regulations and in the light of the latest national macroeconomic developments of those economies and what are the main threats for these CEE banking sectors in the present.
Tales from the crypt: might cryptocurrencies spell the death of traditional money? - A quantitative analysis -
Authors: Stefan Cristian
Published: June 2018

Cryptocurrencies have experienced an exponential growth trend in the past 24 months, followed by a big crash. In the early years of the Internet, inspired entrepreneurs such as Jeffrey Bezos realized that, when something grows exponentially, it becomes ubiquitous within a short time span. Similarly to the Internet in 1994, cryptocurrencies have recently been growing at a dazzling rate, thus one can expect them to be used on a global scale very soon, in spite of the last bubble which has already burst. Alternative currencies are greeted with great enthusiasm, due to their potential to return financial power back to the people, especially in the context of general dissatisfaction and disappointment with the banking sector. They bring about several advantages, such as financial innovations, lower fees as well as increased availability to developing populations. At the same time, their high volatility and lack of supervision might imply that they only serve as complementary financing and not as a substitute of traditional banking. This article discusses the development of cryptocurrencies, including aspects related to Bitcoin, financial technology and the blockchain. Using historical data from Coinmarketcap.com between April 2013 and February 2018, I run a quantitative analysis of the distributions and evolution over time for all listed cryptocurrencies with known market capitalization. I look at the interplay between number of cryptocurrencies and market value, at growth rates, cumulative shares and volatility. I find a phenomenon of exponential growth and violent volatility, which I explain in light of cryptocurrencies’ strengths and weaknesses, as identified in the literature. I emphasize the importance of cryptocurrencies in the context of the global digital economy and I discuss future implications.
The internalization context of private health service providers in Europe: Romanian market case study
Authors: Volintiru Mihai
Published: June 2018

This paper looks at the opportunities and constraints of the private healthcare sector in Europe today. Using the case study of Romania, I explore the attractiveness of foreign and domestic private capital investments in companies that supply healthcare services. In the aftermath of the economic crisis, the private provision of healthcare services has been growing steadily, and there are clear signs in the common market that the liberalisation policies will only increase the attractiveness of such investment still. As large-scale investment projects like general hospitals require large amounts of upfront investment, it is only natural to assume that at least part of this capital will be obtained through internationalisation decision of foreign companies. This paper also presents in depth a comparative overview of the two most developed private healthcare provisions in Romania: dialysis centres and medical laboratories. Part of their success is due to their longstanding relationship with the National Health Insurances House. These medical services generally benefit from large scale public subsidies that support the delivery of private health care provision in Romania. The private providers of medical services in Romania have recorded a steady annual growth dynamics over the past years. In the case of private medical laboratories, the geographical distribution shows a heavy concentration on the main municipalities in Romania. This gives us a perspective on the limited ability of private providers to penetrate smaller markets without the incentive of public subsidies. The Romanian market has proved to be an attractive destination for foreign investors in the medical sector. This is driven in part by the quantitative limitations of the public sector that is struggling with an overload in urban areas, but also by the attractiveness of private health insurance packages offered by many private health care providers. The main international health care providers in Romania that constitute the case studies of this paper are: Medlife, Regina Maria, Medicover, Sanador and Gral Medical.
The Suggestion for the Sustainable Smart City Development in the Water Area, Dongguan, China
Authors: Chen Huiwen , Wan Biyu
Published: June 2018

This report focused on the ‘smart city’ strategies and measurements in Water Areas of Dongguan, China. This report analyzed and summarized the excellent experience and shortcoming in the ‘smart city’ development process in the in Water Areas of Dongguan. For the deficiencies in the ‘smart city’ development in Water Area, some more advanced and targeted strategies or suggestion were proposed as the reference for future development.
Концепт стратегічних дій та заходів розвитку індустрії гостинності
Authors: Dyshkantiuk Oksana
Published: June 2018

У статті запропоновано концепт формування стратегічного планування розвитку індустрії гостинності. Визначено суб’єкти та об’єкти системи стратегічного планування сфери гостинності як єдиного цілого, її інфраструктурних секторів і всередині інфраструктурних секторів. Обґрунтовано систему стратегічних дій та заходів у контексті розвитку індустрії гостинності. Установлено цільові пріоритети розвитку індустрії гостинності на державному й регіональному рівнях та запропоновано комплекс стратегічних планів на рівні суб’єктів господарювання сфери гостинності.
Особливості функціонування СЕЗ у нових країнах Європейського Союзу: досвід для України
Authors: Karlin Mykola
Published: June 2018

У статті проаналізовано досвід нових країн Європейського Союзу щодо створення та функціонування різних видів спеціальних економічних зон й особливості оподаткування як у цих країнах, так і підприємств у вказаних зонах цих держав залежно від виду діяльності. Обґрунтовано необхідність запровадження подібної практики в Україні під жорстким міжнародним контролем із боку кредиторів нашої країни
Зовнішньоторговельна безпека економічного співробітництва України з КНР
Authors: Vlasіuk Taras
Published: June 2018

У статті проаналізовано передумови й сучасний стан зовнішньоторговельних відносин України та країн Азійсько-Тихоокеанського регіону, зокрема КНР. Охарактеризовано обсяги й структуру експорту та імпорту між Україною й КНР. Визначено пріоритетні напрями співробітництва та зміцнення зовнішньоторговельної безпеки економічного співробітництва.
The Regional Dimension of the Waste Management in Volyn and Rivne Regions
Authors: Strishenez Olena , Tesliuk Mikhailo
Published: June 2018

The article examines the state of the waste management in Volyn and Rivne regions. It is shown the presence of the major polluters in areas, analyzed degreeof utilization and the share of waste as secondary raw materials. Also was taken into account the experience of Japan in the recycling resources and regional features of Volyn and Rivne regions.Proposed directions of intensification of providing secondary resources in these areas.
Вплив конкурентних відносин на регіональні ринки нерухомості в умовах інституційного забезпечення
Authors: Pavlov Kostyantin
Published: June 2018

У статті досліджено інституційне забезпечення регіональних ринків нерухомості в умовах конкуренції; з’ясовано їх суб’єкти за критеріями розподілу; проаналізовано чинники впливу на інституційне забезпечення регіональних ринків нерухомості; запропоновано способи їх державного регулювання
The Problems of Efficiency of a Property Tax in Ukraine
Authors: Tsymbaliuk Iryna , Kalchevskyy Vladislav
Published: June 2018

In the article are determined theoretical generalization property taxation problems; explored fiscal importance of property taxation in Ukraine; analyzed the structure and the dynamics of property tax revenues. The role of property taxes in the formation of local budgets Ukraine are determined. The basic change in the mechanism of taxation of property taxes are considered and identified existing problems of efficiency of their collection. Studied the internationalexperience of taxation of property taxes. Substantiated promising areas of improvement tax property taxes and increase their efficiency.
Datingfraude: van romantische droom naar financiële nachtmerrie
Authors: Wijkman Miriam , Kooij Isabel
Published: June 2018

Dating fraud

Datingfraud is nothing new but it is an underexposed subject. Victims are approached on online datingsites by criminals whose goal is to gain large amounts of money. To achieve this, they start, with a false identity, an online relationship with their victims. In this article research has been done what the needs of the victims are after the offense has been committed. To this end interviews have been made with victims of datingfraud and staff members of victim support. Many victims do not end up with victim support because the police refuse to make a report. Nevertheless, the emotional and legal aid seems to functioning well. However, the practical help leaves much to be desired, especially because employees are not informed about all possibilities there are to support the victims.
Vertrouwen in gelijkheid in de transitievergoeding
Authors: Marijnissen Joanne , Weel Janine
Published: June 2018

Vertrouwen in gelijkheid in de transitievergoeding

Het nieuwe kabinet wil door middel van een aantal wijzigingen meer balans brengen in de transitievergoeding. De auteurs behandelen verschillende (uitzonderings)regelingen en toetsen deze regelingen aan de doelstellingen van de transitievergoeding. Besproken wordt of de wetgever voor meer gelijkheid zou kunnen zorgen.
Targeted brain proteomics uncover multiple pathways to Alzheimer's dementia
Authors: Yu Lei , Petyuk Vladislav A. , Gaiteri Chris , Mostafavi Sara , Young‐Pearse Tracy , Shah Raj C. , Buchman Aron S. , Schneider Julie A. , Piehowski Paul D. , Sontag Ryan L. , Fillmore Thomas L. , Shi Tujin , Smith Richard D. , De Jager Philip L. , Bennett David A.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Previous gene expression analysis identified a network of coexpressed genes that is associated with β‐amyloid neuropathology and cognitive decline in older adults. The current work targeted influential genes in this network with quantitative proteomics to identify potential novel therapeutic targets.

Methods

Data came from 834 community‐based older persons who were followed annually, died, and underwent brain autopsy. Uniform structured postmortem evaluations assessed the burden of β‐amyloid and other common age‐related neuropathologies. Selected reaction monitoring quantified cortical protein abundance of 12 genes prioritized from a molecular network of aging human brain that is implicated in Alzheimer's dementia. Regression and linear mixed models examined the protein associations with β‐amyloid load and other neuropathological indices as well as cognitive decline over multiple years preceding death.

Results

Average age at death was 88.6 years. Overall, 349 participants (41.9%) had Alzheimer's dementia at death. A higher level of PLXNB1 abundance was associated with more β‐amyloid load (p = 1.0 × 10−7) and higher PHFtau tangle density (p = 2.3 × 10−7), and the association of PLXNB1 with cognitive decline is mediated by these known Alzheimer's disease pathologies. On the other hand, higher IGFBP5, HSPB2, and AK4 and lower ITPK1 levels were associated with faster cognitive decline, and, unlike PLXNB1, these associations were not fully explained by common neuropathological indices, suggesting novel mechanisms leading to cognitive decline.

Interpretation

Using targeted proteomics, this work identified cortical proteins involved in Alzheimer's dementia and begins to dissect two different molecular pathways: one affecting β‐amyloid deposition and another affecting resilience without a known pathological footprint. Ann Neurol 2018;83:78–88
Rapamycin improves insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in type 2 diabetes rats through activation of autophagy
Authors: Zhou Wan , Ye Shandong
Published: June 2018

Insulin resistance (IR) is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to explore the effects of rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of kinase mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), on IR in T2DM rats, and to validate whether the underlying mechanism was associated with autophagy. In this study, the model of T2DM rats was established by feeding the animals with a high‐fat diet (HFD) and intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Diabetic rats were randomly divided into model of T2DM control group (DM‐C, n = 15), metformin group (DM‐M, n = 15), rapamycin group (DM‐Rapa, n = 15), 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) group (DM‐3‐MA, n = 15), and rapamycin + 3‐MA group (DM‐Rapa‐3‐MA, n = 15). Rats in different treatment groups were given by corresponding therapy from gastric tube. Meanwhile, normal control group was established (n = 10). As expected, HFD‐ and STZ‐ induced T2DM rats exhibited significantly impaired glucose tolerance, reduced insulin sensitivity, dysglycemia and dyslipidemia, aggravated hepatic steatosis, enhanced hepatic inflammation, elevated p‐mTOR, and suppressed hepatic autophagy. Importantly, rapamycin and metformin significantly ameliorated IR, relieved disorders of glucose and lipid metabolism, reduced inflammatory level, inhibited mTOR, and promoted autophagy. Importantly, the autophagy inhibitor 3‐MA significantly reversed the effects exerted by rapamycin. Collectively, our study suggests that rapamycin improved IR and hepatic steatosis in T2DM rats via activation of autophagy.
Validation of the Acuros XB dose calculation algorithm versus Monte Carlo for clinical treatment plans
Authors: Hoffmann Lone , Alber Markus , Söhn Matthias , Elstrøm Ulrik Vindelev
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The two distinct dose computation paradigms of Boltzmann equation solvers and Monte Carlo simulation both promise in principle maximum accuracy. In practice, clinically acceptable calculation times demand approximations and numerical short‐cuts on one hand, and modeling the beam characteristics of a real linear accelerator to the required accuracy on the other. A thorough benchmark of both algorithm types therefore needs to start with beam modeling, and needs to include a number of clinically challenging treatment plans.

Methods

The Acuros XB (v 13.7, Varian Medical Systems) and SciMoCa (v 1.0, Scientific RT) algorithms were commissioned for the same Varian Clinac accelerator for beam qualities 6 and 15 MV. Beam models were established with water phantom measurements and MLC calibration protocols. In total, 25 patients of five case classes (lung/three‐dimensional (3D) conformal, lung/IMRT, head and neck/VMAT, cervix/IMRT, and rectum/VMAT) were randomly selected from the clinical database and computed with both algorithms. Statistics of 3D gamma analysis for various dose/distance‐to‐agreement (DTA) criteria and differences in selected DVH parameters were analyzed.

Results

The percentage of points fulfilling a gamma evaluation was scored as the gamma agreement index (GAI), denoted as G(ΔD, DTA). G(3,3), G(2,2), and G(1,1) were evaluated for the full body, PTV, and selected organs at risk (OARs). For all patients, G(3,3) ≥ 99.9% and G(2,2) > 97% for the body. G(1,1) varied among the patients. However, for all patients, G(1,1) > 70% and G(1,1) > 80% for 68% of the patients. For each patient, the mean dose deviation was ΔD < 1% for the body, PTV, and all evaluated OARs, respectively. In dense bone and at off‐axis distance > 10 cm, the Acuros algorithm yielded slightly higher doses. In the first layer of voxels of the patient surface, the calculated doses deviated between the algorithms. However, at the second voxel, good agreement was observed. The differences in D(98%PTV) were <1.9% between the two algorithms and for 76% of the patients, deviations were below 1%.

Conclusions

Overall, an outstanding agreement was found between the Boltzmann equation solver and Monte Carlo. High‐accuracy dose computation algorithms have matured to a level that their differences are below common experimental detection thresholds for clinical treatment plans. Aside from residual differences which could be traced back to implementation details and fundamental cross‐section data, both algorithms arrive at identical dose distributions.
The Effect of the Fed's Large‐Scale Asset Purchases on Inflationary Expectations
Authors: Thorbecke Willem
Published: June 2018

In 2008 U.S. demand collapsed and triggered deflation. The Fed employed large‐scale asset purchases (LSAP) to fight deflation. How did news of LSAP affect inflationary expectations? If investors believed that LSAP would raise inflation, they would sell assets exposed to inflation and purchase inflation hedges. This would lower the prices of assets that are harmed by inflation and raise the prices of assets that benefit from inflation. Examining the relationship between asset price changes and inflation sensitivities can thus shed light on how financial markets process LSAP news. Results across 60 assets indicate that initially LSAP announcements lowered expected inflation. Only as inflation approached its target did news of LSAP raise expected inflation.
Why Poetry for Reading Instruction? Because It Works!
Authors: Nichols William Dee , Rasinski Timothy V. , Rupley William H. , Kellogg Rachael A. , Paige David D.
Published: June 2018

Poetry can help develop in students a love for reading, writing, and playing with language, yet it is often a neglected literary form in many reading curricula. Those who see the value of poetry recognize it as the perfect genre for teaching phonics, fluency, and a love of language. The rhyming, rhythmical language of poetry provides the perfect backdrop for teaching word families (rimes/phonograms). Poetry also helps young readers develop fluency through the use of beautiful, melodic language that begs to be read repeatedly, which helps develop prosody and a lifelong love for literacy. The thoughtful selection of words also provides the right context for vocabulary development and critical thinking. However, for teachers who love poetry, the most important reason to use this text type may simply be that it works!
Combined strategy of transcription factor manipulation and β-glucosidase gene overexpression in Trichoderma reesei and its application in lignocellulose bioconversion
Authors: Xia Ying , Yang Lirong , Xia Liming
Published: June 2018

The industrial application of Trichoderma reesei has been greatly limited by insufficient β-glucosidase activity in its cellulase system. In this study, a novel β-glucosidase expression cassette was constructed and integrated at the target site in T. reesei ZU-02, which achieved the overexpression of β-glucosidase gene and in situ disruption of the cellulase transcriptional repressor ACE1. The resulting transformants showed significant increase in both β-glucosidase activity (BGA) and filter paper activity (FPA). The BGA and FPA increased to 25.13 IU/mL and 20.06 FPU/mL, respectively, 167- and 2.45-fold higher than that of the host strain. Meanwhile, the obtained cellulase system exhibited improved ratio of BGA to FPA, leading to better synergistic effect between cellulase components. Furthermore, submerged fermentation of the transformant was established in 50 m3 fermenter yielding 112.2 IU/mL β-glucosidase and 89.76 FPU/mL total cellulase. The newly constructed T. reesei transformant achieved improved hydrolysis yield (90.6%) with reduced enzyme loading (15 FPU/g substrate).