bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New approach to phenotypic variability and karyotype-phenotype correlation in Turner syndrome
Authors: Miguel-Neto Jamil , Carvalho Annelise B. , Marques-de-Faria Antonia Paula , Guerra-Júnior Gil , Maciel-Guerra Andréa T.
Published: January 2016

Phenotypic variability of Turner syndrome (TS) challenges clinicians, and undiagnosed mosaicism may lead to conflicting results of karyotype-phenotype correlations. This study assessed the extent of phenotypic variability and investigated the presence of karyotype-phenotype correlations.

The sample comprised 80 patients with ≥50 cells analyzed in karyotype. Twenty were 45,X/46,X,+mar; three groups of 20 patients were constructed by matching those girls with the nearest-aged patient with 45,X, 45,X/46,XX and 45,X/46,X,i(Xq) or 46,X,i(Xq) karyotype.

Data were obtained on height z-score, dysmorphic features, echocardiogram and urinary system sonography. The number of dysmorphic features ranged from one to 16 and was not correlated to age at diagnosis or height. The groups did not differ in height, number of dysmorphic features, cardiovascular and urinary system anomalies and frequency of any specific feature, except for short fourth metacarpal.

Wide phenotypical variability of TS may be objectively described and its clinical picture is not correlated to karyotype.
Air Quality Measurements in Laying Hens Housing
Authors: Prodanov Mirko , Radeski Miroslav , Ilieski Vlatko
Published: January 2016

Ensuring good environmental conditions of the poultry houses can be costly for the farmers, but without it losses due to poor bird health and performance due to poor air quality can be much more detrimental to net returns. The goal of this study was to investigate the variations in air quality in various areas inside the laying hen houses. Ten houses with laying hen conventional battery cages were measured for O2, H2S, CO, NH3, temperature, relative humidity, CO2, airflow and luminance. The results of the physical measures showed that temperatures in the houses were between 15.31–25.6°C, the relative humidity 48.03-81.12%, while the luminance rarely exceeded 8 lux. As for the gasses, the values for NH3 rarely exceeded 8 ppm, although at some measuring points it reached 26 ppm. O2 was generally at 20.9 %, and the levels of CO2 were very low. No presence of H2S and CO was detected. In this study it was concluded that the measurement of the air quality in a house can vary depending of the places this measures are taken. Multiple measurement points are important because they may make the staff aware of the problems connected to low ventilation and culmination of harmful gases. The air quality in different positions in the houses is of great importance not only for the animal welfare, but also for the safety of the staff.
Hypodermosis in Northern Serbia (Vojvodina)
Authors: Becskei Zsolt , Ilić Tamara , Pavlićević Nataša , Kiskároly Ferenc , Petrović Tamaš , Dimitrijević Sanda
Published: January 2016

This paper describes the first documented case of cattle grub (hypodermosis) in Northern Serbia (Vojvodina). Subcutaneous warbles were determined in a si x year old Simmental cow, at nine places along the spine. After the extirpation of larvae, based on the morphological characterisation, larvae of the third stage of Hypoderma bovis were diagnosed. The cow was administered therapeutic treatment, which had a favorable outcome, with no signs of recurrence. To the authors’ best knowledge, the case described in this paper is the first documented case of hypodermosis in cattle in Northern Serbia (Vojvodina). As the climate changed in the past few decades, it is important to pursue detailed investigations of the prevalence of this parasitic myiasis, as there are few such literature data for the Southern region of Serbia. One should also not ignore the fact that species of the genus Hypoderma can cause myiasis in humans as well.
Blowby Gas Composition in Si Engines
Authors: Páv Karel
Published: January 2016

Shrnutí

Tento přispěvek se zabyva metodikou měřeni složeni blow-by plynů v klikove skřini motoru s využitim konvenčnich NDIR analyzatorů vyfukovych plynů. Vyhodnoceni je zaměřeno na určeni podilu spalin, paliva a vodnich par obsaženych v těchto plynech. Určeni podilu spalin v blow-by plynech je založeno na měřeni koncentrace CO2. Vysledky měřeni na většim počtu zažehovych motorů jsou statisticky zhodnoceny s ohledem na provozni podminky motoru. Je zde rovněž ukazan vliv různych provoznich podminek motoru a vliv různeho typu použiteho paliva na složeni blow-by plynů zažehovych motorů s vnějši tvorbou směsi.
Image Reconstruction Method with the Exploitation of the Spatial Correlation for Electrical Capacitance Tomography
Authors: Lei Jing , Liu Shi
Published: January 2016

Electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) is considered to be a competitive measurement method. The imaging objects in ECT measurements are often in a time-varying process, and exploiting the prior information related to the dynamic nature is important for reconstructing high-quality images. Different from existing reconstruction models, in this paper a new model that incorporates the spatial correlation of the pixels by introducing the radial basis function (RBF) method, the dynamic behaviors of a timevarying imaging object, and the ECT measurement information is proposed to formulate the dynamic imaging problem. An objective functional that exploits the spatial correlation of the pixels, the combinational regularizer of the first-order total variation (FOTV) and the second-order total variation (SOTV), the multi-scale regularization, the spatial constraint, and the temporal correlation is proposed to convert the ECT imaging task into an optimization problem. A split Bregman iteration (SBI) method based iteration scheme is developed for solving the proposed objective functional. Numerical simulation results validate the superiority of the proposed reconstruction method on the improvement of the imaging quality.
Physico chemical properties of irradiated i-SANEX diluents
Authors: Mossini Eros , Macerata Elena , Giola Marco , Brambilla Luigi , Castiglioni Chiara , Mariani Mario
Published: January 2016

The development of effective processes to recover minor actinides from spent nuclear fuel cannot leave out of consideration the evaluation of the impact of ionizing radiations on safety, fluid dynamics and extraction efficiency. It is common knowledge from the literature that radiation damage mainly affects the diluents and, indirectly, the extractants [1], but a lack of knowledge remains regarding the radiolytic behavior of innovative selective actinide extraction (i-SANEX) diluents [2, 3]. As natural prosecution of the work already performed on diluted nitric acid solutions [4], 0.44 M nitric acid solutions were irradiated in contact with a mixture of kerosene + 5 vol.% 1-octanol by a Co-60 source at 2.5 kGy/h dose rate and up to 100 kGy absorbed dose, conditions of interest for the future industrial facility. Density, viscosity, acidity, nitrate anion concentration and phase transfers were systematically measured before and after γ-irradiation. This was performed because radiation-induced modifications of these parameters may induce alterations of both the fluid dynamics and the separation performances of the extracting system. The results suggest that the fluid-dynamics of the system should be unaltered. In fact, only slight alterations of the organic phase viscosity and of the aqueous phase acidity were measured after irradiation, suggesting the occurrence of limited phase transfers and of diluent by-products formation.
TS-BTPhen as a promising hydrophilic complexing agent for selective Am(III) separation by solvent extraction
Authors: Kaufholz Peter , Sadowski Fabian , Wilden Andreas , Modolo Giuseppe , Lewis Frank W. , Smith Andrew W. , Harwood Laurence M.
Published: January 2016

The novel hydrophilic back-extraction agent TS-BTPhen (3,3ʹ,3ʺ,3ʹʺ-[3-(1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-diyl)-1,2,4-triazine-5,5,6,6-tetrayl]tetrabenzenesulfonic acid) was tested for its selectivity towards Am(III) over Cm(III) and Eu(III) with a TODGA (N,N,Nʹ,Nʹ-tetraoctyldiglycolamide) based solvent. Batch experiments were carried out using TS-BTPhen dissolved in aqueous nitric acid solution with tracers of 152Eu, 241Am and 244Cm. A significant increase of the separation factor for Cm over Am from SFCm/Am = 1.6 up to SFCm/Am = 3.3 was observed compared to the use of a TODGA-nitric acid system alone. Furthermore, stripping was possible at high nitric acid concentrations (0.6-0.7 mol/L) resulting in a low sensitivity to acidity changes. The influence of the TS-BTPhen concentration was analyzed. A slope of -2 was expected taking into account literature stoichiometries of the lipophilic analogue CyMe4BTPhen. However, a slope of -1 was found. Batch stripping kinetics showed fast kinetics for the trivalent actinides. As an alternative organic ligand the methylated TODGA derivate Me-TODGA (2-methyl-N,N,Nʹ,Nʹ-tetraoctyldiglycolamide) was tested in combination with the hydrophilic TS-BTPhen. The Am(III) separation was achieved at even higher nitric acid concentrations compared to TODGA.
The rapid interphase chromosome assay (RICA) implementation: comparison with other PCC methods
Authors: Sommer Sylwester , Buraczewska Iwona , Sikorska Katarzyna , Bartłomiejczyk Teresa , Szumiel Irena , Kruszewski Marcin
Published: January 2016

A report is presented on the advantages of the rapid interphase chromosome assay (RICA) and the difficulties that may be met while implementing this method for application in biological dosimetry. The RICA test can be applied on unstimulated human lymphocytes; this is an advantage in comparison with the dicentric chromosomes or micronucleus tests. In the former two tests, stimulated lymphocytes are examined and hence, 48 h more are needed to obtain cells traversing the cell cycle. Due to the use of unstimulated nondividing cells, higher numbers of cells are available for RICA analysis than for dicentric chromosomes or micronuclei tests. Moreover, the method can be applied after exposure to ionizing radiation doses in excess of 5 Gy. Such doses cause a significant cell cycle delay or result in the loss of G2 phase and mitotic cells because of apoptosis. Therefore, the traditional biodosimetry based on the evaluation of the incidence of damage to chromosomes is very difficult to carry out. This is due to the lack of an adequate number of mitotic cells for analysis. RICA is free of this disadvantage. An automatic microscope can be used to retrieve cell images; automatic image analysis can also be used.
Determination of formation constants of uranyl(VI) complexes with a hydrophilic SO3-Ph-BTP ligand, using liquid-liquid extraction
Authors: Steczek Lukasz , Narbutt Jerzy , Charbonnel Marie-Christine , Moisy Philippe
Published: January 2016

Complex formation between uranyl ion, UO2
2+, and a hydrophilic anionic form of SO3-Ph-BTP4- ligand, L4-, in water was studied by liquid-liquid extraction experiments performed over a range of the ligand and HNO3 concentrations in the aqueous phase, at a constant concentration of nitrate anions at 25°C . The competition for UO2
2+ ions between the lipophilic TODGA extractant and the hydrophilic L4- ligand leads to the decrease in the uranyl distribution ratios, D, with an increasing L4- concentration. The model of the solvent extraction process used accounts - apart from uranyl complexation by TODGA and SO3-Ph-BTP4- - also for uranyl complexation by nitrates and for the decrease in the concentration of the free L4- ligand in the aqueous phase, due to its protonation, bonding in the uranyl complex and the distribution between the two liquid phases. The unusually strong dependence of the D values on the acidity, found in the experiment, could hardly be explained as due to L4- protonation merely. Three hypotheses were experimentally tested, striving to interpret the data in terms of additional extraction to the organic phase of ion associates of protonated TODGA cation with either partly protonated anionic L4- ligands or anionic UO2
2+ complexes with NO3 - or L4-. None of them has been confirmed. The analysis of the results, based on the formal correction of free ligand concentrations, points to the formation of 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 uranyl - SO3-Ph-BTP complexes in the aqueous phase. The conditional formation constant of the 1:1 complex has been determined, logßL,1 = 2.95 ± 0.15.
SACSESS – the EURATOM FP7 project on actinide separation from spent nuclear fuels
Authors: Bourg Stéphane , Geist Andreas , Narbutt Jerzy
Published: January 2016

Recycling of actinides by their separation from spent nuclear fuel, followed by transmutation in fast neutron reactors of Generation IV, is considered the most promising strategy for nuclear waste management. Closing the fuel cycle and burning long-lived actinides allows optimizing the use of natural resources and minimizing the long-term hazard of high-level nuclear waste. Moreover, improving the safety and sustainability of nuclear power worldwide. This paper presents the activities striving to meet these challenges, carried out under the Euratom FP7 collaborative project SACSESS (Safety of Actinide Separation Processes). Emphasis is put on the safety issues of fuel reprocessing and waste storage. Two types of actinide separation processes, hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical, are considered, as well as related aspects of material studies, process modeling and the radiolytic stability of solvent extraction systems. Education and training of young researchers in nuclear chemistry is of particular importance for further development of this field.
Electron beam irradiation of r-SANEX and i-SANEX solvent extraction systems: analysis of gaseous products
Authors: Szreder Tomasz , Kocia Rafał
Published: January 2016

1-Octanol/kerosene mixtures and water contacted with organic solvents were used as model solutions for r-SANEX and i-SANEX extractions systems. Investigations aimed on a quantitative evaluation of gaseous products generated in these systems under exposure to an electron beam irradiation. Influence of O2, HNO3 and the presence of model ligands and complexes on the radiation chemical yields was studied. Relatively high G(H2) values (up to 420 nmol·J-1) for the organic phase compromise the safety issues of the extraction process and should be considered on the stage of extraction apparatus design. Based on the obtained results gaseous hydrocarbons seem to have negligible impact on safety issue. The upper limit of G(H2) values in water contacted with organic phase was established to be 85 nmol·J-1. This value is relatively low, however, the literature data indicate that G(H2) values measured in aqueous solutions are over twice higher for α-particles irradiation than for electron beam or γ-irradiation. Thus, further investigations of these systems are necessary.
Osteological guide of songbirds from Central Europe
Authors: Kessler Jenő (Eugen)
Published: January 2016

The author provides an osteological guide to songbirds, based on 11 skeletal parts of 51 genera, at the genus level for ornithologists studying owl pellets, paleontologists and archaezoologists. The mandible, the coracoid bone, the scapula, the humerus, the ulna, the carpometacarp, the first phalanx bone of the second finger, the femur, the tibiotars, the tarsometatars and the claw bone are presented.

The morphological characteristics and method of measurement of the examined skeletal parts and the photographs of the appropriate bones are illustrated on 52 plates and 17 figures. The measurement data are also provided in 11 size tables. For every discussed bone, 3-6 characteristics are chosen, and their codes consist of 3-6 letters. In case of overlaps, dimensions are the determining factors, and for the humerus and the ulna, the ensemble of the two bone end pairs can be used.
Trace elements in lake sediments of the Brda river catchment area / Pierwiastki śladowe w osadach jezior zlewni Brdy
Authors: Bojakowska Izabela , Kozłowska Olimpia , Stec Bartosz
Published: January 2016

Total of 54 samples (of sediments taken from the surface of 5-cm layer of profundal zone of lakes in the catchment of the river Brda) were tested in presented research. The collected samples were analysed for the concentrations of Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Sn, Sr, V and Zn, and Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, P and S, using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), after sample digestion in aqua regia. The Hg concentration was determined from solid samples using atomic absorption spectroscopy (TMA). The organic carbon content was determined using the coulometric method. Sediments of most of lakes examined in the Brda catchment area are characterised by low concentrations of trace elements. Sediments contained an average of 0.9 mg/kg of Cd, 0.107 mg/kg of Hg, 8 mg/kg of Ni, 46 mg/kg of Pb, 8 mg/kg of As, 78 mg/kg of Ba, 12 mg/kg of Cr, 94 mg/kg of Zn, 3 mg/kg of Co, 12 mg/kg of Cu, 1.3 mg/kg of Mo, 105 mg/kg of Sr and 16 mg/kg of V. The presence of elevated concentrations of chromium, copper, nickel and vanadium is controlled by a geogenic factor - weathering of glacial deposits containing fragments of igneous and metamorphic rocks which are the source of heavy metals. The presence of elevated contents of Pb, Zn, Hg and Cd is caused by anthropogenic factor. Most of the lake sediments show low concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg and Ni, which do not pose a threat to aquatic organisms. The concentrations of lead in almost half of the samples are elevated to a level at which a negative effect of this element can be observed. In the case of zinc, the proportion of such samples is about 25%.
Effect of copper upon the actions of sulphate-reducing bacteria isolated from soil contaminated by crude oil and heavy metals / Wpływ miedzi na aktywność bakterii redukujących siarczany wyizolowanych z gleby zanieczyszczonej ropą naftową i metalami ciężkimi
Authors: Podobas Ewa Izabela , Rożek Agnieszka
Published: January 2016

In the present study, copper tolerance by a mixed culture of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) were evaluated. These sulphidogenic microbial communities were isolated from soils polluted by crude oil, oil-derived products and heavy metals (from selected areas of crude oil mines in south-eastern Poland).

Copper tolerance of SRB was tested in modified Postgate C medium with ethanol and lactate as the sole carbon source and copper chloride at concentrations ranging from 0 to 1500 mg/l. Bacterial growth and sulphate reduction were possible between 100 and 1500 mg/l of initial copper concentration. Active sulphate reduction - maximum of 53% was observed in the cultures.

Molecular analysis indicated not only the presence of SRB but also other microorganisms that are capable of living in environments contaminated by heavy metals. The high environmental sulphide concentrations produced by SRB lead to the precipitation of any biogenic mineral phases such as metal sulphides. As a result, soluble metal ion concentrations in the microenvironment of SRB are, therefore, extremely low. This process allows SRB to grow in environments containing high levels of toxic metals. Studies on SRB tolerance to heavy metals are extremely important because of the possibility of using this group of microorganisms for the bioremediation and microbial revitalisation of areas contaminated by heavy metals.
Possibilities of using text and graphic database ‘Protected areas in Poland’ to analyses on protected areas / Możliwości wykorzystania tekstowej i graficznej bazy danych “Obszary chronione w Polsce” do analiz sieci obszarów chronionych
Authors: Walczak Malgorzata
Published: January 2016

The article presents the database ‘Protected areas in Poland’, its actualisation, further modernisation and consequent abilities to search for information and to use them for analysis and researches on protected areas in Poland. Database is carried out at the Institute of Environmental Protection - National Research Institute.
For Want of a Nail: Three Tropes in Data Curation
Authors: Shankar Kalpana
Published: January 2016

This article explores the role of three key tropes in the data curation profession. Using interviews with digital preservation experts, researchers, public sector statisticians, and social science data archivists as well as popular and professional literature and media, this article discusses how tropes and narratives are used to create shared meaning among data curation stakeholders. The article explores how tropes of abundance / overload, openness, and trust are created and used and concludes with reflections on how such stories articulate professional values and concerns. The article advocates for further attention to the use of narratives and stories as the data curation profession develops.
The principle of system Corefit in rehabilitation of pelvic floor disorders for women in menopause period
Authors: Żak I. , Saulicz E. , Linek Paweł , Saulicz M.
Published: January 2016

Background: Pelvic floor dysfunctions, among which urinary incontinence is the most onerous symptom, pose a serious social problem whose significance is probable to grow together with the process of an ageing society and more frequent incontinence episodes in menopausal women. The growing absence of professionally active people suffering from incontinence is prone to result both from plans to raise the retirement age and the process of an ageing society. The concept of Corefit system has been created to meet the incontinent women’s expectations. The above mentioned system is based on an individualized sensomotoric training programme as well as the re-education of incorrect motor patterns resulting in pelvic floor muscle overload. What is also essential for Corefit system effectiveness is monitoring the process of facilitation, which enables constant training plan correction.
Effect of holiday on postural tone and selected parameters of body posture in young people with Down syndrome
Authors: Doroniewicz I. , Matyja M. , Durmała J. , Pastuszak J.
Published: January 2016

Background: Regular physical therapy of people with Down syndrome improves the efficiency of such treatment. However, it remains unclear whether a discontinuation of the therapy over the period of summer holiday influences the effects of the therapeutic process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of summer holiday on postural tone and quantitative parameters of body posture (angle of trunk rotation in the transverse plane and the spinal curvatures such as kyphosis or lordosis in the sagittal plane) in young people with Down syndrome.

Material/Methods: Twenty one people aged 14 to 24 years were examined, with IQ scores from 54 to 35 on the Wechsler Intelligence scale. The experimental group was young people with Down syndrome whereas the control group were people with moderate intellectual disability without additional neurological, orthopaedic and other genetic disorders. The postural tone coefficient (PTC) and values of the spinal curvature (lordosis and kyphosis) and angle of trunk rotation (ATR) were evaluated twice. The first measurement was performed after 10 months of regular neurorehabilitation according to the neurodevelopment concept while the second - after 2 months of summer holiday.

Results: During the holiday, the PTC value reduced significantly in the controls, from 0.40 to 0.37 (p=0.02), whereas in young people with Down syndrome, postural tone did not change significantly (p=0.33). In terms of the parameters of body posture, one significant change was observed in the group of patients with Down syndrome (kyphosis, p=0.00).

Conclusions: No significant correlations were found between postural tone and values of kyphosis, lordosis and angle of trunk rotation, except for the relationship between PTC and angle of trunk rotation obtained in the main thoracic measurement (Th5- Th12, p=0.03).
Simulation of the steady-state behaviour of a new design of a single planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Pianko-Oprych Paulina , Zinko Tomasz , Jaworski Zdzisław
Published: January 2016

The aim of the work was to develop a mathematical model for computing the steady-state voltage – current characteristics of a planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell and to determine the performance of a new SOFC design. The design involves cross-flow bipolar plates. Each of the bipolar plates has an air channel system on one side and a fuel channel system on the other side. The proposed model was developed using the ANSYS-Fluent commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software supported by additional Fuel Cell module. The results confirm that the model can well simulate the diagonal current path. The effects of temperature and gas flow through the channels and a Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) structure were taken into account. It was shown that a significant increase of the MEA temperature at high current density can lead to hot spots formation and hence electrode damage.
Effect of notch sensitivity on the mechanical properties of HA/PEEK functional gradient biocomposites
Authors: Yusong Pan , Yan Chen , Qianqian Shen , Chengling Pan
Published: January 2016

Biomaterials used as loading-bearing orthopedic implants usually require various excellent properties such as mechanical, bioactive and bio-tribological performances. Moreover, all of the orthopedic applications feature stress concentrations (notch sensitivity) in their design. In the present work, hydroxyapatite-reinforced polyetheretherketone functional gradient biocomposites (HA/PEEK FGBm) were successfully prepared by the layer stacking method combined with hot pressing molding technology. The effects of notch geometry on the stress-strain behavior of HA/PEEK FGBm were evaluated. The fracture morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study of the stress-strain behavior indicated that the tensile and flexural stresses of HA/PEEK FGBm linearly increased with increasing strain under all the notch sensitivities. The fracture strain of the biocomposites decreased with increasing stress concentration factor and total HA content in the functional biocomposites. Moreover, the tensile and flexural strengths of HA/PEEK FGBm were lower than those of homogeneous HA/PEEK biocomposites. The SEM observation of the fracture micro-morphology showed that the fracture mechanism of HA/PEEK FGBm was gradually controlled by the brittle fracture process. Furthermore, both the tensile and the flexural strengths of HA/PEEK FGBm decreased with the increase in stress concentration factor and total HA content in the biocomposites.
Effect of surface modification on the compressive properties of silica fume/polyurethane composites
Authors: Shao Di , Diao Jianzhi , Wang Lijie , Li Long
Published: January 2016

Silica fume was modified by a silane coupling agent (KH-550). The modified silica fume was further investigated to reinforce polyurethane (PU) composites. Unmodified and modified silica fume reinforced PU composites were prepared. Through the comparisons of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of unmodified and modified silica fume, the agglomerations of silica fume particles were effectively prevented as KH-550 was grafted. The compressive strength of the modified silica fume/PU composites was largely improved, because KH-550 could react with both silica fume and PU. Meanwhile, modified silica fume turned from hydrophilic to hydrophobic; a better dispersion was realized in the PU elastomers compared to the unmodified silica fume. The reinforcement effects were evaluated based on the results of a universal test machine in comparison with unmodified silica fume/PU composites.
How do Members of Parliament View the Public Value of Public Service Media? The Case of Latvia
Authors: Brikše Inta , Beitika Ieva
Published: January 2016

The Development of public media in Latvia as a post-communist country has essentially been influenced by politicians. The political community has had consensus that certain reforms are necessary to ensure the development of public media given the changes in the communication space and its role in the facilitation of the strengthening of democracy, yet during the last fifteen years the political elite has not been able to come to a common agreement and to make decisions on systemic reforming and the development of public media. Since the communication environment has changed post digitalisation of television, the question about public media development and legitimisation has become increasingly topical.

The aim of the study is to explore how the members of the parliament of Latvia (Saeima) position public service media (PSM) in Latvia and assess the public value of PSM. The theoretical framework for the research is based on the concept of public value „strategic triangle” (Benington & Moore 2011), which consists of three main elements: public value outcomes, the authorising environment and operational capacity.

The study is based on qualitative research methods including 18 semi-structured interviews conducted with members of the Saeima in 2012 and 2013. The acquired data has been analysed by the principles of thematic analysis (Attride-Stirling 2001). Analysis of the interviews show that members of the Saeima recognise the need for public media to be independent whilst at the same time supporting a model in which public media is not supposed to have independent funding and they will continue competing with commercial media in the advertising market. High competition and resentment are characteristic features of the political elite in Latvia that apparently would also in future hamper the making of such decisions about public media that will facilitate their high-quality. Results of the research show the tendency for members of parliament to lack the necessary knowledge to formulate their opinion and to modulate relations of public media with society and their place in the overall media system in Latvia.
Mechanisms of Europeanisation and Compliance in Judicial Politics: Understanding the Past and Anticipating the Future
Authors: Coman Ramona
Published: January 2016

Recent developments in Hungarian constitutional and judicial politics have given impetus to question not only the outcomes of democratisation and Europeanisation, but also the efficacy of the European Union’s compliance mechanisms. In 2010, Hungary, one of the forerunners in building democracy made the headlines with Fidesz’s attempts at adopting a new Constitution and implementing cardinal laws along with controversial institutional, cultural, religious, moral and socio-economic policies. This article attempts to depict the transformative power of the European Union within a sensitive policy area which touches upon States’ pouvoris régaliens: the independence of the judiciary.
Legitimacy through Subsidiarity? The Parliamentary Control of EU Policy-Making
Authors: Borońska-Hryniewiecka Karolina
Published: January 2016

This article explains the relationship between subsidiarity and legitimacy of policies designed at EU level. Through means of theoretically informed analysis this paper claims that if the principle of subsidiarity is respected and implemented throughout the policy process, EU policy-making can aspire to satisfy the condition of both input and output legitimacy. The empirical part of the paper shows how, through a subsidiarity control mechanism known as the Early Warning System, national parliaments can collectively fulfill representative and deliberative functions in EU policy-making. Conclusions about the changing dynamics in parliamentary modus operandi in the field of EU affairs lead to forming a set of recommendations for further research.
Endocrine Abnormalities in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Kuczera Piotr , Adamczak Marcin , Wiecek Andrzej
Published: January 2016

In patients with chronic kidney disease the alterations of the endocrine system may arise from several causes. The kidney is the site of degradation as well as synthesis of many different hormones. Moreover, a number of concomitant pathological conditions such as inflammation, metabolic acidosis and malnutrition may participate in the pathogenesis of endocrine abnormalities in this group of patients. The most pronounced endocrine abnormalities in patients with chronic kidney disease are the deficiencies of: calcitriol, testosterone, insulin-like growth factor and, erythropoietin (EPO). Additionally accumulation of several hormones, such as: prolactin, growth hormone and insulin frequently also occur. The clinical consequences of the abovementioned endocrine abnormalities are among others: anemia, infertility and bone diseases.
Visualisation of Microglia with the use of Immunohistochemical Double Staining Method for CD-68 and Iba-1 of Cerebral Tissue Samples in Cases of Brain Contusions
Authors: Stankov Aleksandar , Belakaposka-Srpanova Viktorija , Bitoljanu Natasa , Cakar Ljupco , Cakar Zdravko , Rosoklija Gorazd
Published: January 2016

In the recent years it has been confirmed that the main component of the immune response in an injury of the nerve cell comes from microglia and macrophages. The main challenge in the field of microglia research is to detect the different stages of cellular activation by visualization of the cell morphology. The existing visualization techniques are based on surface molecules expression in resting and activated microglia cells. For visualization of the microglial cells and their functional state we used double labeling method for cd-68 and iba1 in brain contusions with different survival time. Microglia are stained brown with Iba-1, whereas microglia impregnated with black, grainy color, represents activated microglia stained with CD 68. We had significantly positive results, and we were able to observe changes in the morphology of the microglia that correlated with the survival time. Using double labeling with Iba-1 and cd68 we were able to determine their physiological state based on the morphology and immunoreactivity.
Overdentures on Implants for Better Quality of Life Among the Fully Edentulous Patients – Case Reports
Authors: Nikolovska Julijana , Petrovski Dragan , Petricevic Nikola , Kapusevska Biljana , Korunoska-Stevkovska Vesna
Published: January 2016

Global aging population has brought several challenges for their medical systems and total edentulism is one of them. The fabrication of removable acrylic dentures seems to be a simple and cheap treatment solution, but a majority of patients is not satisfied with their functional instability, causing limited diets, mouth soreness, speech and psycho-social problems etc. The results in many studies indicate an impact of oral conditions associated with the full denture wearing on oral-health related quality of life, especially in lower jaw. The reason for improper denture retention could be alveolar ridge bone resorption and numerous studies about this problem are plausible. Bone resorption in lower jaw may turn the alveolar ridge into a flabby soft tissue which is unable to sustain proper denture retention.

The implant-retained prosthesis is an alternative treatment option in these situations. Implants will provide retention, stability, function and aesthetics and they are not so expensive solution. The aim of this article is to show solving of retention problems of a lower denture in two different clinical cases using implants and without any special technology.
First Off-Shore Site Bird Monitoring In Poland (Debki-Białogóra, 2002–2004)
Authors: Busse Przemysław
Published: January 2016

Due to the presence along the Polish Baltic coast of migratory bird flyways from north-eastern European breeding grounds to wintering areas distributed on continental shelf waters of western and southwestern Europe, the area has been designated as a NATURA 2000 site (PLB 990002). Therefore the site of a planned off-shore wind farm in this area requires monitoring as to its potential influence on birds. This was the first such monitoring performed in Poland. The expanse of water covered by the research included the planned location of the wind farm as well as adjacent areas. A series of 15 investigative cruises were undertaken from the beginning of October to the beginning of May. The period of observations was divided into five seasons: early autumn, late autumn, winter, early spring and late spring. The standard method of counting birds on transects in the form of strips reaching 300 m from the ship was used in the research, as well as the ‘snapshot’ technique (scan with bands transect with snapshot technique). Additional observations were made from a point on the shore.

In the study area maritime birds are present in low or moderate densities, with localized clusters. Two diving benthophagous species dominate: the Long-tailed Duck (58.9%) and the Velvet Scoter (34.3%). The next two commonest species have a share of over 1% within the community – the Common Scoter (3.2%) and the Herring Gull (2.4%). Other species are very uncommon. There is very high fluctuation in the number of birds both observed on the water surface and seen in the air. In the area studied no pronounced migratory passage of waterfowl was observed; the usual migratory flyways probably lie farther to the north and the birds observed in flight perform mainly local movements. Observed bird densities in the study area are considerably lower (52.0 ind./km2) than those estimated for the entire NATURA 2000 area (116.7 ind./km2). In the area of the planned wind farm densities are even lower (36.1 ind./km2, i.e. 31% of the NATURA 2000 level), while densities in neighbouring areas are still below the NATURA 2000 average.

In the subsequent administrative procedure the area was not accepted as the location of the planned wind farm.
Study of the Protective Effects of Quince (Cydonia Oblonga) Leaf Extract on Fertility Alterations and Gonadal Dysfunction Induced by Monosodium Glutamate in Adult Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Kianifard Davoud , Saiah Gholamreza Vafaei , Rezaee Farhad
Published: January 2016

Background and Aims: Starting from the cytotoxic effects of monosodium glutamate (MSG), the aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of quince leaf extract as natural antioxidant on the reproductive dysfunction induced by monosodium glutamate in rats. Material and methods: Monosodium glutamate was administrated with a dose of 30 and 60 mg/kg and quince leaf extract was administrated with a dose of 500 mg/kg. At the end of study, body and testicular weight measurement, hormonal and epididymal sperm analysis were performed. Results: Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone levels were reduced after administration of monosodium glutamate. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) exhibited no significant changes. Treatment with quince leaf extract led to improvement in follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone levels. Epididymal sperm population was reduced after administration of monosodium glutamate and treatment with quince leaf extract. The increased sperm motility rate induced by monosodium glutamate was reduced after treatment with quince leaf extract. Administration of monosodium glutamate led to more body weight gain in comparison to combined administration monosodium glutamate and quince leaf extract. Conclusions: The quince leaf extract can be effective in reduction of functional alterations of reproductive system induced by monosodium glutamate.
Practical Aspects Regarding the Histopathological Diagnosis of Early Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: Tebeică T. , Andrei R. , Zurac Sabina , Stăniceanu Florica
Published: January 2016

Mycosis fungoides is the most common primary T-cell lymphoma of skin. The disease has a protean clinical and histological presentation in its early patch and plaque stages, when distinction from mimicking inflammatory dermatoses is difficult. Since no single criterion is specific enough, a reliable diagnosis in early stages requires integration of clinical, histopathological and molecular findings. In skin biopsies, the most helpful histologic features are the detection of atypical lymphocytes in the epidermis with minimal epidermal changes, basal alignment of lymphocytes along dermal-epidermal junction and formation of Pautrier microabscesses. An aberrant immunophenotype of T cells and molecular detection of a clonal T-cell population are factors that could allow a more specific diagnosis. This work recapitulates and discusses these features from a practical perspective.
Extensive Left Iliac Veins and Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis Revealing a Giant Uterine Myoma
Authors: Cărbunaru Ana , Herlea V. , Ionescu M. , Dumitraşcu T.
Published: January 2016

A deep vein thrombosis was rarely associated with uterine myomas. Hereby, it is presented the case of a 40-year-old woman in which the clinical manifestation of the deep vein thrombosis revealed the further diagnosis of a large uterine myoma. The diagnosis, management and clinical outcome of the patient are emphasized and discussed. The management of a patient with a uterine myoma and deep vein thrombosis is challenging and implies a multidisciplinary team.
Severe Acute Infection Due to Serratia marcescens Causing Respiratory Distress in An Immunocompetent Adult
Authors: Ruiz-Sada Pablo , Escalante Mikel , Lizarralde Eva
Published: January 2016

The role of Serratia marcescens changed from a harmless saprophytic microorganism to an important opportunistic human pathogen. It often causes nosocomial device-associated outbreaks and rarely serious invasive community acquired infections. We present a case of a community-acquired Serratia marcescens bacteremia leading to Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a previously healthy 51-year-old man without identifiable risk factors. Full recovery was achieved with solely medical treatment and observation in ICU during three days. To our knowledge it is an extremely uncommon presentation and just few cases have been previously reported in the literature.
Pseudotumour cerebri Idiopathic intracranial hypertension and vascular intracranial hypertension
Authors: Iencean St. M. , Iencean A. St. , Tascu A.
Published: January 2016

From the first to use of “pseudotumor cerebri” by Nonne in 1904, the historic evolution of the knowledge on pseudotumor cerebri has been marked by several periods (the otologic stage, the neurosurgical stage, the neuro-ophthalmologic stage); today there are clear diagnosis criteria for the idiopathic intracranial hypertension, there is a clear differentiation between idiopathic intracranial hypertension and vascular intracranial hypertension, also the comprehension of the illness pathogeny is based on the dynamics of the intracranial fluids, which allows the auto-regulation of the cerebral circulation within quasi-normal limits, despite the very high intracranial pressure.
Massive cerebellar infarction: a neurosurgical approach
Authors: Salazar Luis Rafael Moscote , Alvis-Miranda Hernando Raphael , Agrawal Amit , Alcala-Cerra Gabriel , Calderon-Miranda Williem , V. Umamaheswara Reddy
Published: January 2016

Cerebellar infarction is a challenge for the neurosurgeon. The rapid recognition will crucial to avoid devastating consequences. The massive cerebellar infarction has pseudotumoral behavior, should affect at least one third of the volume of the cerebellum. The irrigation of the cerebellum presents anatomical diversity, favoring the appearance of atypical infarcts. The neurosurgical management is critical for massive cerebellar infarction. We present a review of the literature.
Cervical spine disc herniation at C2-C3 level: Study of a Clinical Observation and Literature Review
Authors: Oka Dominique N'Dri , Kouakou Fulbert , Haro Yacouba , Sarki Souleymane
Published: January 2016

Cervical C2-C3 herniated disc is rare. It is characterized by its clinical polymorphism. Several surgical approaches have been described for the discectomy of a herniated disc. This work aims at discussing through personal observations and literature review clinical semiology and surgical treatment.
Non traumatic fractures of the lumbar spine and seizures: case report
Authors: Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Rubiano Andres M. , Alvis-Miranda Hernando Raphael , Alcala-Cerra Gabriel
Published: January 2016

Injury-induced seizures may appear clinically asymptomatic and can be easily monitored by the absence of trauma and post-ictal impairment of consciousness. Patients with epilepsy have a higher risk of compression fractures, leading to serious musculoskeletal injuries, this type of non-traumatic compression fractures of the spine secondary to seizures are rare lesions, and is produced by the severe contraction of the paraspinal muscles that can achieve the thoracic spine fracture. Seizures induced lesions may appear clinically asymptomatic and can be easily monitored by the absence of trauma and post-ictal impairment of consciousness. We present a case report.
Modern Guidelines for Forming the International Image of Universities: Foreign Experience
Authors: Padalka Oleh , Voronenko Oleksandr , Humeniuk Tetiana
Published: January 2016

The article presents the analysis of scientific and technological activities of higher education pedagogical institutions of Ukraine at the end of 2014 according to the staffing situation, the functioning of postgraduate and doctoral studies and the availability of the valid specialized academic councils on thesis defense, according to students’ research works aiming at young scientists’ training. The criteria of evaluation of scientific work results of the university faculty and the ways to encourage young teachers to do the research work through postgraduate and doctoral studies and the defense of the thesis as the final result. We raised a problem of training young scientists int higher education pedagogical institutions of Ukraine as a powerful intellectual force, which determines the scientific future of the country. The main directions of scientific and technical activities of the universities aimed at foreign cooperation within the country and the world were defined as well. Modern guidelines for forming the international image of universities in foreign experience (the USA and European countries) have been outlined.
Academic Mobility Projects Management: Challenges for Ukrainian Professional Education
Authors: Zabolotna Oksana
Published: January 2016

The article is devoted to the academic mobility projects management on the example of Pavlo Tychyna Uman State Pedagogical University in the Erasmus Mundus Projects, namely, EMINENCE and EMINENCE II. It has been pointed out that modern university is a constantly developing system possessing a hidden potential for innovations. Thus, the significance of international projects has been justified as they are the way for using the opportunities. And they have also been considered the means of funding research through collaboration and academic mobility. The description of EMINENCE and EMINENCE II has been given. The author stresses that the EMINENCE idea is that only through multiplication and spreading of gained abroad benefits the mobility of project participants will have wider impact on the capacity of sending partners. The responsibilities of PTUSPU performing the function of Joint-Coordinator within the projects have been enumerated and commented on. It has been mentioned by the author that twenty four representatives of PTUSPU have participated in the academic mobility hosted by European Universities. The statistical information illustrating the above given information has also been presented. The levels presupposed by the system of preparing for managing international projects have been listed, namely cultural, organizational, management and economic level. The characterization of each of these levels has been given. Different project phases such as pre-selection, selection, mobility and post-mobility periods have been described. In terms of description of the selection stage, the panels of EMINENCE Selection Committee along with their responsibilities have been listed. The number of challenges associated with international projects management, faced by Ukrainian professional education has been mentioned and emphasized.