bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calculation of Arc Power Losses in the Simplified Model of Intensively Blasted Electric Arc
Authors: Senk J. , Laznickova I. , Jakubova I.
Published: July 2018

In previous versions of the simplified model of intensively blasted electric arc burning in argon in the arc heater's anode channel, the authors used the constant total power loss coefficient for estimation of arc power losses in all anode channel individual parts. Using this approach, the model with relatively low computational complexity has led to very good agreement between the total computed and experimentally obtained values, but when the computed and measured power losses of individual anode channel segments have been compared, considerable differences have been revealed. In the modified model, theoretically computed net emission coefficient of argon is used in the energy equation to express the arc power losses. This way, satisfactory accordance is achieved between not only the total, but also partial measured and computed values. Exemplary results are given in figures and tables and discussed.
Towards an Efficient Arc Simulation Framework
Authors: Fuchs R. , Mürmann M. , Nordborg H.
Published: July 2018

Arc simulations require a coupled solution of the flow and electromagnetic equations. Despite of industrial interest, there is no established simulation framework available yet. We assess the usability of STAR-CCM+ for low voltage circuit breaker simulations using a test case of a model arc chamber, since this toolkit allows to define and control the simulation in a single environment. In spite of a partially implemented arc root model, the results agree well with reference data of previous publications.
Investigation on the Influence of Gas Pressure on CO2 Arc Characteristics in High-Voltage Gas Circuit Breakers
Authors: Guo Z. , Li X. , Zhang Y. , Guo X. , Xiong J.
Published: July 2018

CO2 is identified as a promising alternative gas of SF6. The magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) arc model is established for a CO2 circuit breaker. The influence of gas pressure is studied. The simulations are carried out for 0.5 MPa, 0.7 MPa and 0.9 MPa absolute filling pressure, allowing predictions of pressure and temperature distributions. The arc time constant θ and the power loss coefficient Q is extracted. The thermal interruption capability is estimated to grow with increasing filling pressure.
EFFEKTIVNOST', PERENOSIMOST'I KOMPLAENTNOST' ALENDRONATA NATRIYa(70 MG 1 RAZ V NEDELYu)PRI LEChENII POSTMENOPAUZAL'NOGO OSTEOPOROZA
Authors: DREVAL' A V , MARChENKOVA L A , KRYuKOVA I V , TIShENINA R S , PORTNOY L M , MYLOV N M , RUBIN M P
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to assess effectiveness ant tolerability of alendronate in women suffered of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
15 postmenopausal women with primary osteoporosis (age 61.0±4.8 (M±σ) years) was administered alendronate in dosage 70 mg weekly with calcium supplementation (1000 mg daily) for 12 months. Control group consisted of 19 women also suffered from postmenopausal osteoporosis (age 61.7±5.2 years) received only calcium salts for study period.
There was a significant increase vs baseline in BMD in lumbar spine (in 2.1% in 6 months and in 2.7% in 12 months), in femoral neck from (in 2.1% and 3.3% accordingly), in trochanter (in 5.5% and 6.3% accordingly) and in total proximal femur (in 2.9% and 1.9% accordingly) in treated patients. We also found in treated group a marked decrease in serum ionized calcium from 1.24±0.03 to 1.21±0.03 mmol/l in 6 months and to 1.2±0.04 mmol/l in 12 months (р
Assotsiatsiya polimorfnogo varianta (CA)ngena kal'tsitonina (CALCA) s riskom razvitiyapostmenopauzal'nogo osteoporoza i urovnemkal'tsitonina v syvorotke krovi u russkikh zhenshchinVolgo-Ural'skogo regiona Rossii
Authors: Selezneva L. I. , Khusainova R. I. , Nurlygayanov R. Z. , Fazlyeva E. A. , Ziganshin T. M. , Kozhemyakina E. V. , Lesnyak O. M. , Khusnutdinova E. K.
Published: July 2018

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a widespread complex disease with strong genetic predisposition. The aim of this study was to fnd association of (CA)n polymorphism of calcitonin gene (CALCA) with the risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis and serum calcitonin level in Russian women from Volga-Ural region. DNA samples of 372 women aged from 48 to 77 years old (175 with fractures and 197 without fractures) were used in the study. Femoral neck BMD was measured in 185 women, lumbal spine BMD - in 203 women. The serum calcitonin was measured in 168 women. Eight alleles of (CA)n polymorphism were revealed: each allele contained 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 CA repeats. CALCA*10*10 genotype is a marker of the decreased risk of osteoporosis (OR = 0,21) and osteopenia (OR = 0,21). CALCA*10*10 and CALCA*17*17 genotypes were shown to be
associated with high femoral neck BMD. Statistically signifcant association of CALCA*17 allele with the increased calcitonin level have been shown.
COMBINATION THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS. THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THERAFLEX
Authors: Alekseeva L I
Published: July 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of joint damage and a major cause of morbidity and disability. The significant increase in the incidence is due to the rapid aging of the population and the pandemic of obesity. The main clinical symptoms of OA are pain and deformation of joints, leading to functional impairment. OA treatment requires not only accurate diagnosis, but also estimation of the prevalence and severity of articular damage, the general health status of the patient and the presence of comorbid conditions for the correct choice of treatment, and possibly a combination thereof. Proven effectiveness of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride alone, created the preconditions for the development of complex products. The effectiveness of this combination is supported by experimental and clinical data.
The peculiarities of self in young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fedorova Anzhelika A. , Shishkina Ekaterina S. , Kablukov Vitaliy S.
Published: July 2018

The problem of the influence of self on human behavior is one of the major focuses of psychologists. However, the problem of self-identification of patients with somatic diseases, in particular type 1 diabetes mellitus, still remains poorly understood.
Aim: the study aim was to investigate the characteristics of self-evaluation in young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Material and methods. The theoretical and methodological basis of the study was the concept by V.V. Stolin (1985) and the theory of self by S.R. Pantileev (1989). We used the self-attitude assessment (SAA) method by S.R. Pantileev, personal differentia method adapted at the Bekhterev Research Institute; and self-esteem scale test by M. Rosenberg. The study included 60 subjects allocated into two groups: 30 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, a mean age of 22.5 years (18 to 25 years) and a mean disease duration of 5 years; 30 healthy subjects with a mean age of 21.5 years (18 to 25 years).
Results. Patients with type 1 diabetes, unlike healthy subjects, had a low level of self-evaluation; they had the most pronounced negative emotional attitude to their Self, which reflected a low level of self-acceptance and comprise. Patients with type 1 diabetes had the level of self-esteem lower than that in healthy subjects. They were characterized by the presence of internal conflicts, disagreement with oneself, and excessive soul-searching and reflection. They considered themselves as the source of their failures.
Conclusions. The results indicate the distinct differences in the structure of Self between type 1 diabetes patients and healthy subjects.
К 70-летию профессора Александра Павловича Солдатова
Authors: Андреев Александр Анатольевич , Andreev Aleksandr Anatolevich , Радченко Владимир Павлович , Radchenko Vladimir Pavlovich , Козлова Елена Александровна , Kozlova Elena Alexandrovna
Published: July 2018

18 января 2018 г. исполнилось 70 лет доктору физико-математических наук, профессору, заслуженному деятелю науки Российской Федерации Александру Павловичу Солдатову.
В настоящей заметке приводятся сведения из научной биографии этого крупного ученого, который хорошо известен в России и за рубежом.
Представлены сведения о его вкладе в развитие математики в области дифференциальных уравнений с частными производными и их приложений.
Pengendalian Urban Sprawl di Wilayah Pinggiran (Studi Kasus: Perkembangan Kota di Indonesia dan Perancis)
Authors: Ramlan Nurazizah , Rudiarto Iwan
Published: July 2018

The progress in urbanization within downtown areas has been expanded to the surrounding areas (i.e. periphery). This has been considered by the changes of the land uses in two geographically different countries. These areas have experienced a phenomenon of space consumption due to the urban development, which eventually triggered the urban sprawl, such as Mlati in Indonesia, Vertou, Caquefou and Sainte Luce Sur Loire in Nantes, France. This present study aims to examine the practices in the management of space consumption by urbanization in several municipals within periphery of Nantes, such as Carquefou, Sainte Luce sur Loire, Vertou and to compare with the sub-region of Mlati, in Sleman, Indonesia. The objective of this research was to answer the question; what are the major factors that influence the implementation of the policy controlling the urban sprawl in the periphery, in Indonesia and in France? These factors were decomposed in four components: regulations, institutions, resources and implementation. The approaches used in this study were, first of all, the quantitative method and based on its results. The second approach was done by descriptive qualitative method. The first approach was analysis of changes in land uses using evolution matrices of the change of land use, in order to study how a particular type of land use evolved and how it changed. The second step was done by an interview with the people key who are mastering the research subject, and then SWOT analysis was done from the interview. The results show that there is a significant difference between Indonesia and France, particularly in the human resources and implementation.
Kajian Erosi Dan Hasil Sedimen Untuk Konservasi Lahan DAS Kreo Hulu
Authors: Zulfa Fauzi Rifky Muhammad , Maryono Maryono
Published: July 2018

Watershed as rainwater catchment are is susceptible with erosion and sedimentaion problems. The calculation of erosion and sediment yield can be calculated with USLE and SDR (Sediment Delivery Ratio) method at each area unit. This research intends to find out the erosion value, distribution and prediction of sediment yield contained in Kreo Hulu Watershed in 2009-2014. Data accumulation methods for the research are observation, documentation, and field measurement. The erosion forecast result in this research obtained based on overlay few maps, that is rain erosivity map, soil erodibility map, length of slope map, management and conservation soil map. This research was construct with using rainfall data from 2009 until 2014. Based on the calculations model of erosion is known that the erosion in the watershed upstream Kreo fluctuation occurring annually. With the result of erosion from 2009 until 2014 are respectively 17.45 tons; 18.78 tons; 17.83 tons; 25.70 tons; 31.62 tons; 26.17 tons. Sediment yield estimates obtained by the relationship between the unit value erosion (based mapping unit), as well as the erosion area of the unit value of Sediment Delivery Ratio in watershed. By calculation of these factors, the value of watershed sediment Kreo Hulu forecast results for 2009-2014 are respectively 2,78 tons, 2.93 tons; 2,78 tons; 4.01 tons; 4.93 tons; 4,08 tons. Spatial distribution of erosion prediction Kreo upstream watershed of very high value erosion is largely rural area/village Gunungpati, Banjarejo, Karangmalang, Lebak and Cepoko. Weight and middle erosion are covering parts of Pasigitan, Branjang, Kalisidi, and Tinjomoyo. Then need to increase conservation of alternative methods land mechanically and vegetative at upstream Kreo watershed.
Pengembangan Trotoar Sebagai Jalur Pejalan Kaki Pada Koridor Jalan Utama Pusat Kota Wonogiri (Studi Kasus : Trotoar Jl. A. Yani, Jl. Sudirman dan Jl. Pemuda)
Authors: Rahayu Sumber , Widjajanti Retno
Published: July 2018

Trotoar pada tiga jalan utama Pusat Kota Wonogiri mempunyai permasalahan fungsi. Pejalan kaki banyak berjalan di jalan raya di kawasan komersial Jl. Sudirman dan Jl. A. Yani, sedangkan pada kawasan perkantoran Jl. Pemuda, trotoar menjadi ruang-ruang kosong yang hampir tanpa pejalan kaki. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menemukenali kualitas trotoar sebagai dasar pengembangan trotoar pada koridor jalan utama Kota Wonogiri. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Pengumpulan data melalui survey dan kuesioner. Metode analisis adalah deskriptif kuantitatif dengan distribusi frekuensi. Kualitas trotoar diukur berdasarkan aspek keamanan, kelancaran sirkulasi, lebar trotoar, kondisi permukaan, perlindungan terhadap cuaca, tempat duduk, kebersihan dan keindahan. Hasil penelitian di tiga koridor menunjukkan bahwa kualitas trotoar Jl. Sudirman memiliki kenyamanan terendah, sedangkan trotoar Jl. Pemuda memiliki kualitas kenyamanan tertinggi. Ketiga koridor memiliki persamaan kondisi yaitu, aman dari tindak kriminalitas, kurang memperoleh perlindungan terhadap cuaca dan tidak tersedia tempat duduk. Dengan kualitas yang ditemukan, maka pengembangan trotoar pada kawasan komersial Jl. Sudirman dan Jl. A. Yani adalah dengan memperlebar trotoar, minimum 2,5 m, membuat permukaan yang rata, menertibkan aktivitas selain pejalan kaki, memperhatikan jenis dan tata letak tanaman, menyediakan jalur hijau dan street furniture yang terpisah dengan jalur pejalan kaki. Pada trotoar Jl. Pemuda, penting mempertimbangkan desain trotoar sebagai taman linier di kawasan perkantoran dengan melakukan penertiban jalur pejalan kaki sehingga diperoleh lebar efektif 2 m melalui pembagian ruang trotoar yang jelas untuk berjalan kaki, street furniture dan jalur tanaman.
Alice Ramsey: Driving in New Directions
Authors: Parkin Katherine
Published: July 2018

Summering in Asbury Park in 1908 enabled Alice Ramsey to hone her motor skills as she drove 6,000 miles of Monmouth County roads. She developed skills to care for and maintain the car, with few services available to her. Her winning performances in endurance runs on Long Island and between New York City and Philadelphia caught the eye of a Maxwell-Briscoe car promoter who invited her to undertake a sponsored trip across the country. When she crossed the country in 1909, only a tiny percentage of women drove; there were few formal roads and very little guidance on how to navigate. While she was known throughout her life as Mrs. John R. Ramsey and had two children, after her husband's death in 1933, Alice Ramsey, under cover of her married name and her identity as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, lived for 50 years with women she loved. Her wealth, presumptive heterosexuality, and notoriety as an automotive pioneer led newspapers and magazines in the 1960s and 1970s to cover her unconventional life.
Christ Church’s Vinegar Bible
Authors: Kelly, Jr. Robert M.
Published: July 2018

A church in Shrewsbury, NJ, is the proud owner of an absolutely beautiful, and exceedingly rare, 300-year-old Bible with the curious nickname, the “Vinegar Bible.” It’s been guiding worship since before the American Revolution. Before you read any further, take a guess where the interesting nickname might have come from. Got it? Ok, now read on for the true story...
Archaeologies of African American Life in the Upper Mid-Atlantic
Authors: Siegel Peter E.
Published: July 2018

Peter E. Siegel reviewing Richard Veit and Michael Gall's Archaeologies of African American Life in the Upper Mid-Atlantic
Brain stem modeling at a system level – chances and limitations
Authors: Mikolajewski Dariusz , Duch Włodzisław
Published: July 2018

The topic of brain stem computational simulation still seems understudied in contemporary scientific literature. Current advances in neuroscience leave the brain stem as one of the least known parts of the human central nervous system. Brain stem lesions are particularly damaging to the most important physiological functions. Advances in brain stem modeling may influence important issues within the core of neurology, neurophysiology, neurosurgery, and neurorehabilitation. Direct results may include both development of knowledge and optimization and objectivization of clinical practice in the aforementioned medical areas. Despite these needs, progress in the area of computational brain stem models seems to be too slow. The aims of this paper are both to recognize the strongest limitations in the area of computational brain stem simulations and to assess the extent to which current opportunities may be exploited. Despite limitations, the emerging view of the brain stem provided by its computational models enables a wide repertoire of functions, including core dynamic behavior.
BCL2L12 improves risk stratification and prediction of BFM-chemotherapy response in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Avgeris Margaritis , Stamati Lamprini , Kontos Christos K. , Piatopoulou Despina , Marmarinos Antonios , Xagorari Marieta , Baka Margarita , Doganis Dimitrios , Anastasiou Theodora , Kosmidis Helen , Gourgiotis Dimitrios , Scorilas Andreas
Published: July 2018

Background

Risk-adjusted treatment has led to outstanding improvements of the remission and survival rates of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Nevertheless, overtreatment-related toxicity and resistance to therapy have not been fully prevented. In the present study, we evaluated for the first time the clinical impact of the apoptosis-relatedBCL2L12gene in prognosis and risk stratification of BFM-treated childhood ALL.

Methods

Bone marrow specimens were obtained from childhood ALL patients upon disease diagnosis and the end-of-induction (EoI; day 33) of the BFM protocol, as well as from control children. Following total RNA extraction and reverse transcription,BCL2L12expression levels were determined by qPCR. Patients’ cytogenetics, immunophenotyping and minimal residual disease (MRD) evaluation were performed according to the international guidelines.

Results

BCL2L12expression was significantly increased in childhood ALL and correlated with higherBCL2/BAXexpression ratio and favorable disease markers. More importantly,BCL2L12expression was associated with disease remission, while the reducedBCL2L12expression was able to predict patients’ poor response to BFM therapy, in terms of M2-M3 response and MRD≥0.1% on day 15. The survival analysis confirmed the significantly higher risk of the BFM-treated patients underexpressingBCL2L12at disease diagnosis for early relapse and worse survival. Lastly, evaluation ofBCL2L12expression clearly strengthened the prognostic value of the established disease prognostic markers, leading to superior prediction of patients’ outcome and improved specificity of BFM risk stratification.

Conclusions

The expression levels of the apoptosis-relatedBCL2L12predict response to treatment and survival outcome of childhood ALL patients receiving BFM chemotherapy.
Activating Temporalities: The Political Power of Artistic Time
Authors: Bal Mieke
Published: July 2018

Inspired by Marx’ view of “untimely temporalities,” I connect my own conception of the need for anachronism in art history with some contemporary artworks focusing on the political importance of art in the present. The analyses of work by three contemporary artists who each bring their own aesthetic of slowness, interruption, and activism to their art leads to a conception of political art as activating rather than directly activist. In addition to Marx, especially his view of temporality, and to Henri Bergson as a major philosopher of time, the article also establishes connections with the ideas of contemporary cultural analyst Kaja Silverman. These three thinkers, each in their own way, undermine the binary oppositions on which so much of thought is based.
A Novelhybrid Bio-System for Wastewater Treatment Using Algerian Agricultural Wastes
Authors: Chikhi Sara , Bouzid Bachir , Hamitouche Adhy’a Eddine
Published: July 2018

The development of a new clean, easy to handle process with similar efficiency to that of the conventional process is one of the most important challenges in green chemistry investigation. In this study, a new hybrid process was investigated; coupling coagulation-flocculation with adsorption using abundant and natural bioproducts (Chitosan and Ammi visnaga). The Chitosan/Ammi visnaga (coagulation/adsorption) system was studied for its Brilliant Green dye removal capacity. This new technique seems to be a good alternative method for wastewater treatment, showing satisfactory results with high rates of elimination that range around 90 %.
The Variability of the Concentration of Bioaerosols Above the Chambers of Biological Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Michałkiewicz Michał , Kruszelnicka Izabela , Widomska Małgorzata
Published: July 2018

The article presents the results of research over microorganisms (psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria and microscopic fungi) found in wastewater in denitrification and nitrification chambers and specifies the proportion of these microorganisms in bioaerosol at various levels above wastewater level (20, 50 and 100 cm). In the denitrification chamber (anoxic) in 1 cm3 of sewage there were on average 30.35 · 106 CFU of mesophilic bacteria, 72.88 · 106 CFU of psychrophilic bacteria, and 37.3 · 105 CFU of microscopic fungi. In the nitrification chamber, where the oxygen concentration ranged from 0.37 to 2.32 mg O2·dm−3 of wastewater, the number of microorganisms was lower. In 1 cm3 of wastewater there were on average 20.2 · 106 CFU of mesophilic bacteria, 51.76 · 106 CFU of psychrophilic bacteria, and 15.22 · 105 CFU of microscopic fungi. In sewage bioaerosols above these chambers, higher numbers of psychrophilic bacteria than mesophilic ones and microscopic fungi were reported. At the same time differences in the number of microorganisms at different heights above the surface of wastewater could be observed in bioaerosol, as well as between the chambers of the bioreactor. It was found that most frequently the amount of microorganisms decreased with height. The percentage emission ratio (ER) of microorganisms in bioaerosols coming from wastewater accounted for only a fraction of a percent and ranged from 1.13 · 10−8 % (microscopic fungi over the denitrification chamber) to 24.53 · 10−9 % (psychrophilic bacteria over the denitrification chamber). It was found that the process of mixing, aeration of wastewater, have an effect on the emission of microorganisms.
Effect of pH on the Production of Volatile Fatty Acids in Dark Fermentation Process of Organic Waste
Authors: Grzelak Justyna , Ślęzak Radosław , Krzystek Liliana , Ledakowicz Stanisław
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pH on the dark fermentation process of kitchen waste by specifying the composition of the volatile fatty acids (VFA), H2 and by drawing the carbon balance. Studies were carried out in 8 dm3 batch bioreactor in mesophilic conditions. The kitchen waste from the city of Lodz were used as a substrate. Based on the study, it was observed that most of the VFA was produced during the first two days of the process, while in the following days the production was diminished. The highest production of VFA (19.5 g/dm3) was obtained in the bioreactor, where the pH was 7 and 8. Analyzing the produced VFA it was observed that mostly the acetic and butyric acid had been produced. Most of acetic acid (over 70 %) was obtained in fermenter with pH 7 and 8. In contrast, most of the butyric acid (over 40 %) was in the bioreactor with a pH of 6. Production of H2 was in the range from 4.29 to 26.5 dm3, wherein the largest amount of H2 was created in the bioreactor with a pH of 6.
Eco-Investments - Life Cycle Assessment of Different Scenarios of Biomass Combustion
Authors: Nitkiewicz Tomasz , Ociepa-Kubicka Agnieszka
Published: July 2018

The article presents the results of life cycle assessment of different scenarios of biomass use to produce energy in a selected company. The study is made on the case of Lesaffre Polska S.A. and its facility in Wolczyn which is one of the most modern biomass plants in Central Europe. The company is one of the leaders of using the environmental criteria in its strategic decision-making. Its goal is to avoid any waste and to form its own circular business system. One of its recent investments is a biomass fired steam boiler that uses agricultural and woody biomass to produce energy. Previously, biomass was sold to power plant and co-fired with coal. The scope of the paper is to assess the actual change in the environmental impact of biomass use in the Wolczyn facility. For that purpose, the life cycle assessment is used with the ReCiPe endpoint indicator. The assessment is based on the comparison of two scenarios: one assuming the biomass combustion in a new boiler, and the second one, assuming co-firing biomass with coal. The results of the study show that the investment is making a significant difference as far as the overall environmental impact is. Through avoiding the co-firing related emissions the company makes a big step ahead towards the decrease of their environmental impacts. The analysis shows that the significant impact in the co-firing scenario is posed in such categories as fossil depletion, climate change with impacts on human health and on ecosystems, particulate matter formation and agricultural land occupation. In the biomass combustion scenario, the above categories are complemented with metal depletion, natural land transformation, urban land occupation and human toxicity categories but with 4 times decrease of the overall impact. The study also shows that the change of the combustion system makes the most significant difference, while all the other factors, like biomass cultivation and processing, biomass transport have much lesser impact.
Inner structure in real vector spaces
Authors: García-Pacheco Francisco Javier , Naranjo-Guerra Enrique
Published: July 2018

Internal points were introduced in the literature of topological vector spaces to characterize the finest locally convex vector topology.
In this manuscript we generalize the concept of internal point in real vector spaces by introducing a type of points, called inner points, that allows us to provide an intrinsic characterization of linear manifolds, which was not possible by using internal points. We also characterize infinite dimensional real vector spaces by means of the inner points of convex sets. Finally, we prove that in convex sets containing internal points, the set of inner points coincides with the one of internal points.
Kallikrein-related peptidases and associated microRNAs as promising prognostic biomarkers in gastrointestinal malignancies
Authors: Adamopoulos Panagiotis G. , Tsiakanikas Panagiotis , Scorilas Andreas
Published: July 2018

Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies represent a wide spectrum of diseases of the GI tract and its accessory digestive organs, including esophageal (EC), gastric (GC), hepatocellular, pancreatic (PC) and colorectal cancers (CRC). Malignancies of the GI system are responsible for nearly 30% of cancer-related morbidity and approximately 40% of cancer-related mortality, worldwide. For this reason, the discovery of novel prognostic biomarkers that can efficiently provide a better prognosis, risk assessment and prediction of treatment response is an imperative need. Human kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) are a subgroup of trypsin and chymotrypsin-like serine peptidases that have emerged as promising prognosticators for many human types of cancer, being aberrantly expressed in cancerous tissues. The aberrant expression of KLKs in human malignancies is often regulated by KLK/microRNAs (miRNAs) interactions, as many miRNAs have been found to target KLKs and therefore alter their expression levels. The biomarker utility of KLKs has been elucidated not only in endocrine-related human malignancies, including those of the prostate and breast, but also in GI malignancies. The main purpose of this review is to summarize the existing information regarding the prognostic significance of KLKs in major types of GI malignancies and highlight the regulatory role of miRNAs on the expression levels of KLKs in these types of cancer.
Designing a Holistic Behavior Change Support System for Healthy Aging
Authors: Herrmanny Katja , Schwarz Michael , Paldán Katrin , Beckmann Nils , Sell Jennifer , Wagner Nils-Frederic , Dogangün Aysegül
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we describe the development of a behavior change support system to improve health. The system is designed for people in the age range of 50–65 with an interdisciplinary approach. The basic structure of the presented system consists of two main modules: a monitoring module to collect and analyze data and an intervention module to support behavior changes. Based on the results of a requirements analysis and findings gathered from a conducted literature review and own analyses, the behavior change system addresses the following lifestyle areas: physical activity, nutrition, mental fitness, sleep, and nature contact. We outline how the concept is developed with regards to the results of the requirements analysis and psychological foundations to explain and predict motivation and behavior change processes. We describe how single system components match phases of behavior change models and how they were implemented into an Android application. Finally, we present the results of usability studies where the comprehensibility of the concept and application was tested together with the usability of navigation structure and design. The results show that the target group is able to understand the concept and can navigate through the system easily.
Development of an Inertial Motion Capture System for Clinical Application
Authors: Bleser Gabriele , Taetz Bertram , Miezal Markus , Christmann Corinna A. , Steffen Daniel , Regenspurger Katja
Published: July 2018

The ability to capture human motion based on wearable sensors has a wide range of applications, e.g., in healthcare, sports, well-being, and workflow analysis. This article focuses on the development of an online-capable system for accurately capturing joint kinematics based on inertial measurement units (IMUs) and its clinical application, with a focus on locomotion analysis for rehabilitation. The article approaches the topic from the technology and application perspectives and fuses both points of view. It presents, in a self-contained way, previous results from three studies as well as new results concerning the technological development of the system. It also correlates these with new results from qualitative expert interviews with medical practitioners and movement scientists. The interviews were conducted for the purpose of identifying relevant application scenarios and requirements for the technology used. As a result, the potentials of the system for the different identified application scenarios are discussed and necessary next steps are deduced from this analysis.
Sociotechnical Systems in the Textile Industry
Authors: Altepost Andrea , Löhrer Mario , Ziesen Nenja , Saggiomo Marco , Strüver Niklas , Houben Daniel , Gloy Yves-Simon
Published: July 2018

This article delineates the work of an interdisciplinary research group concerning the implementation of a digital assistance system in the German textile industry. Using a holistic approach, researchers from different disciplines contribute to the design of an integrated socio-technical method that guides industrial actors in developing and implementing digital assistance systems that are applicable on the shop-floor level and at the same time take into account various social and organizational demands. Following this approach, the development of new technologies is coordinated with innovative social practices, for example, learning techniques or organizational changes. Furthermore, aspired users of the assistance system participate in the project by contributing their expertise of the working progress as well as by defining requirements essential towards addressing the various challenges at hand. The conceptual outline and early findings of the project, including the development of a prototype of the assistance system, are presented in this article.
Dissolution Characteristics of Freeze-Dried Pullulan Particles Affected by Solution Concentration and Freezing Medium
Authors: Xu Qing , Yao Yan , Zhao Tong , Shi Qiongqiong , Li Zhanyong , Tian Wei
Published: July 2018

Pullulan particles were prepared to improve water solubility. The pullulan droplet with the concentration of 5%, 10%, 15% or 20% (w/w) was injected and frozen in the cryogenic media of liquid nitrogen at −196 °C or cold air at −15 °C, then freeze dried. The results show that most of dried pullulan particles pre-processed in either liquid nitrogen or cold air can be completely dissolved in water within 60 s. The water solubility of as-prepared particles in liquid nitrogen is better than that in cold air. The particles frozen at −196 °C have smaller and more uniform pore structures together with a larger specific surface area than those frozen at −15 °C. It is found that the particles from 10% pullulan solution with liquid nitrogen have largest water solubility and also highest specific surface area (11.78 m2/g).
The Impact of Information on Willingness to Pay and Quantity Choices for Meat and Meat Substitute
Authors: Castellari Elena , Marette Stéphan , Moro Daniele , Sckokai Paolo
Published: July 2018

We evaluate the impact of different types of information on participants' willingness-to-pay (WTP) and quantity choices for both beef and soy burger meat. To this end, we conducted a lab experiment to elicit WTP with multiple-price lists and chosen quantities of two products in a basket. Participants were provided with explanatory messages regarding the impact of beef and soy on health and environment before successive rounds of WTP determinations and quantity choices. Results show a weak impact of successive rounds of messages on WTP for both beef and soy, while leading to higher relative variations for chosen quantities. These relative changes in both WTP and quantities are then combined for computing the value of information. Results show a relatively low value of information compared to the expenditure for beef. In the last section of the paper we evaluate the effect of the introduction of a beef burger labeled “Fed without GMO” on WTP and quantity choices. Results underline a weak impact of “Fed without GMO” label on changing participants' preferences.
A Flame Detection Method Based on Novel Gradient Features
Authors: Liping Zhu , Hongqi Li , Fenghui Wang , Jie Lv , Ali Sikandar , Hong Zhang
Published: July 2018

In this study, we present a novel approach to efficiently detect the flame in multiple scenes in an image. The method uses a set of parametric representation named as Gradient Features (GF), to learn the features of flame color changes in the image. Different from the traditional color features of the flame, GF represents the color changes in RGB channels for further consideration. In this study, support vector machine was applied to generate a set of candidate regions and the decision tree model was used to judge flame regions based on GF. Some exclusive experiments were conducted to verify the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method. The results showed that the proposed method can accurately differentiate between yellow color light and sunrise scenes. A comparison with the state-of-the-art preceding methods showed that this method can utilize the symmetry of flame regions and achieve a better result.
Van Wyk-Grumbach syndrome with hemangioma in an infant
Authors: Biswas Moumita , Sinha Malay Kumar , Das Mrinal Kanti , Sarkar Sumantra
Published: July 2018

Background

Van Wyk-Grumbach syndrome (VWGS) is characterized by juvenile primary hypothyroidism, delayed bone age and isosexual incomplete precocious puberty with reversal to the prepubertal state following thyroid hormone replacement.

Case presentation

In this case, an 18-month-old girl presented with premature menarche since 9 months of age, delayed bone age and enlarged bilateral multicystic ovaries along with a superficial infantile hemangioma over the upper anterior chest. VWGS was diagnosed based on the clinical features. High serum thyroid stimulating hormone and low free thyroxine with the absence of any carpal bones in the wrist X-ray were suggestive of congenital hypothyroidism. Interestingly, the coexisting hemangioma could also play a role in the etiology of the hypothyroidism through “consumptive hypothyroidism”. Thyroid hormone replacement resulted in the complete resolution of signs and symptoms.

Conclusions

Untreated congenital hypothyroidism of short duration, onset of symptoms in infancy and association of an infantile hemangioma in VWGS were the unique features in our case.
What Proportion of Time is a Particular Market Inefficient? … A Method for Analysing the Frequency of Market Efficiency when Equity Prices Follow Threshold Autoregressions
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad Farid , Satchell Stephen
Published: July 2018

We assume that equity returns follow multi-state threshold autoregressions and generalize existing results for threshold autoregressive models presented in Knight and Satchell 2011. “Some new results for threshold AR(1) models,” Journal of Time Series Econometrics 3(2011):1–42 and Knight, Satchell, and Srivastava (2014) for the existence of a stationary process and the conditions necessary for the existence of a mean and a variance; we also present formulae for these moments. Using a simulation study, we explore what these results entail with respect to the impact they can have on tests for detecting bubbles or market efficiency. We find that bubbles are easier to detect in processes where a stationary distribution does not exist. Furthermore, we explore how threshold autoregressive models with i.i.d trigger variables may enable us to identify how often asset markets are inefficient. We find, unsurprisingly, that the fraction of time spent in an efficient state depends upon the full specification of the model; the notion of how efficient a market is, in this context at least, a model-dependent concept. However, our methodology allows us to compare efficiency across different asset markets.
A scatterer-assisted whispering-gallery-mode microprobe
Authors: Shu Fangjie , Jiang Xuefeng , Zhao Guangming , Yang Lan
Published: July 2018

A fiber-based whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) microprobe, combining both the high optical field enhancement of the WGMs and the compact structure of the optical fiber, is highly desired for sensing and imaging. Here we report a WGM microsphere resonator coupled to a single-mode fiber interfaced by a graded-index lens. By scattering a focused laser beam through a nano-scatterer, with the help of a two-step focusing technique as well as Purcell effects, the efficient far-field coupling of WGMs with an efficiency as high as 16.8% has been demonstrated in our system. With the feature of both input and output of the probe light propagating along the same fiber, such a scatterer-assisted WGM microprobe will serve as a convenient tool for sensing/imaging applications.
Crystal structure of 5-methylpyrazine-2-carbohydrazide, C6H8N4O
Authors: Gao Liang-Liang , Zhao Xiao-Lei , Wu Wei-Na
Published: July 2018

C6H8N4O, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.019(5) Å, b = 9.990(6) Å, c = 9.050(6) Å, β = 98.474(10)°, V = 717.1(7) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0405, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1205, T = 296(2) K.
The impact of zeolite filler on ageing and mechanical failure of paper
Authors: Engin Merve , Atik Celil
Published: July 2018

The choice of the filler type for paper materials has been a qualitative discussion. The mineral precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) is used in considerable quantities in the pulp and paper industry as filler. However, alternative filler materials have been researched for improving the properties of paper. In this work, a domestic zeolite (clinoptilolite) filler was used separately and mixed with precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) fillers. Indeed, the objective of our approach was to explore the structural and mechanical properties of handsheets having filler content affected as a function of accelerated ageing. The results confirmed that the mixed furnish of zeolite and PCC fillers provides positive and synergistic effect on the mechanical properties of ageing handsheets at the low content.
Selective laser melting of polymers: influence of powder coating on mechanical part properties
Authors: Drexler Maximilian , Greiner Sandra , Lexow Matthias , Lanzl Lydia , Wudy Katrin , Drummer Dietmar
Published: July 2018

For the derivation of part quality increasing process strategies, knowledge about interactions between sub-processes of selective laser melting (SLM) and resulting part properties is necessary. The SLM process consists of three major sub-processes: powder coating, exposure, and material consolidation. According to the interaction of sub-processes, resulting processing conditions during SLM determine the part properties by changing micro structural pore number and distribution. In addition to absolute temperatures, the time-dependency of the thermal fields also influences the porosity of molten parts. Present process strategies tend to decrease building time by acceleration of the subprocesses. Apart from prior investigated acceleration of the exposure, the powder coating step is focused. Within the paper, the authors analyze the basic interactions between different coating parameters and part properties. The authors estimate an interaction between coating speed and resulting part properties due to a force impact caused by the moved coating mechanism. Therefore, specimens produced with different coating speeds are analyzed with imaging technologies as well as mechanical tests. Based on the investigations, new processing strategies can be established considering the forces applied to the powder bed during the coating process, as well as the unique compaction behavior of current and future used powders.
National Memory and Divisive Narrative Building in Poland’s 2010 Presidential Election
Authors: Lupion Miranda
Published: July 2018

This paper employs the 2010 Polish presidential election as a case study to explore the implications of memory politics, examining the Law and Justice party’s (PiS) use of national memory ahead of the June election. Through process tracing, this paper finds that the Smolensk Air Crash became the central theme of this race, which pitted Civic Platform (PO) candidate Bronisław Komorowski against the late President Lech Kaczynski’s twin brother, PiS’s Jarosław Kaczynski. Amplified by the media, PiS selectively drew on easily recognisable events and figures from Polish history to construct an “Us versus Them” conflict of “true Polish patriots” - those who supported the party and its anti-Russian stance - and “Others” - those who, although sympathetic to the crash victims, favoured Tusk and his push for renewed Polish-Russian relations. The primary goal of this paper is to demonstrate how a historical memory approach can inform the study of contemporary politics - a subject which is too oft en left solely to social scientists.
Regulations Regarding the Spelling of National Minorities’ Names in the Documents and the Protection of the State Language in Latvia and Lithuania
Authors: Jędrysiak Marcin
Published: July 2018

The goal of this article is to compare the Latvian and Lithuanian provisions regarding the spelling of names of the members of the national minorities. Lithuanians often state an opinion, that provisions in both countries are very similar, and Latvian Poles cannot use the original form of their names. The legal comparative methods have been used. In the paper the most important provisions of both countries were analyzed: Constitution, state language law, law on the state language commission and the special regulations on the spelling of the names. Also, the problems with the national minorities law were analyzed. This comparison led to the discovery of differences in the Lithuanian and Latvian provisions regarding the spelling of names. Another factor which had been taken into account is the standing of the international bodies on those regulations. It has been presented by showing most important cases regarding Latvia and Lithuania. Above mentioned means allowed the author to verify the thesis that Latvian and Lithuanian provisions are similar. Both legal systems have also been criticized.
Prevalence of Prolonged QTC Interval in Patients Taking Psychopharmacs
Authors: Jovanovic Zoran , Radonjic Vesela , Jelic Ratomir , Petrovic-Subic Narcisa , Soldatovic Ivan , Terzic Vera , Stojilkovic Sladjan , Djuric Dusan
Published: July 2018

Apart from providing knowledge on the beneficial effects of drugs, practical psychopharmacotherapy also includes drug profiles of adverse effects, especially when medical comorbidity is present. The mechanism of action of many psychotropic drugs, mainly antipsychotics and antidepressants, is associated with prolongation of the QT interval and the occurrence of arrhythmias, specifically Torsade de pointes (TdP), which can be lethal. The aim of this pilot study was to confirm the prevalence of prolonged QTc interval in a sample of psychiatric patients taking psychopharmacs.

The present study included 41 patients who were already on psychopharmacs. The average value of the QTc interval in the observed sample was 413.8±23.3 ms. The most frequent psychopharmacotherapy was the combination of typical and atypical antipsychotics (24.4%), followed by monotherapy with antipsychotics (22%) and combined antidepressant and atypical antipsychotic therapy (22%). The average value of the QTc interval for male patients was 412.1±25.2 ms, whereas for female patients, it was 416.6±20.4 ms. No difference between sexes was confirmed (p=0.555). The correlation between the QTc interval and age of patients was positive but not statistically significant (p=0.072). The highest average (419.3±31.6 ms) and highest maximum (479 ms) values of the QTc interval were noted for patients undergoing combined therapy of antidepressants and atypical antipsychotics. Prolonged values of the QTc interval were observed for seven males and one female, and no patients exhibited pathological values.

This study confirmed previous research that found that prolongation of the QTc interval exists in patients in sample groups who take psychopharm acs, but not up to critical values.
Montenegro. Capitalist Transformation at the European Periphery
Authors: Lazić Mladen
Published: July 2018

The author reviews the basic facts necessary to understand the specific process of Montenegro’s capitalist transformation in the past thirty years or so, a process particularly influenced by certain characteristics of the political system. The survival in power of one political party throughout the period of systemic changes, as well as the more than twenty-year personal rule of Milo Đukanović which continued despite the introduction of liberal-pluralist principles, are primarily explained by the control of the state apparatus by the ruling elite. Alongside that was a low level of economic development. In addition, ambivalent attitudes of the populace to Montenegro’s independence from Serbia and the interethnic relations of Serbs and Montenegrins have played their own role. In the second part, the text displays the leitmotif underlying the contributions to the thematic section on Montenegro in this issue.