bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forest dynamics
Authors: Frelich Lee
Published: February 2016

Forest dynamics encompass changes in stand structure, species composition, and species interactions with disturbance and environment over a range of spatial and temporal scales. For convenience, spatial scale is defined as individual tree, neighborhood, stand, and landscape. Whether a given canopy-leveling disturbance will initiate a sequence of development in structure with little change in composition or initiate an episode of succession depends on a match or mismatch, respectively, with traits of the dominant tree species that allow the species to survive disturbance. When these match, certain species-disturbance type combinations lock in a pattern of stand and landscape dynamics that can persist for several generations of trees; thus, dominant tree species regulate, as well as respond to, disturbance. A complex interaction among tree species, neighborhood effects, disturbance type and severity, landform, and soils determines how stands of differing composition form and the mosaic of stands that compose the landscape. Neighborhood effects (e.g., serotinous seed rain, sprouting, shading, leaf-litter chemistry, and leaf-litter physical properties) operate at small spatial extents of the individual tree and its neighbors but play a central role in forest dynamics by contributing to patch formation at stand scales and dynamics of the entire landscape. Dominance by tree species with neutral to negative neighborhood effects leads to unstable landscape dynamics in disturbance-prone regions, wherein most stands are undergoing succession; stability can only occur under very low-severity disturbance regimes. Dominance by species with positive effects leads to stable landscape dynamics wherein only a small proportion of stands undergo succession at any one time. Positive neighborhood effects are common in temperate and boreal zones, whereas negative effects are more common in tropical climates. Landscapes with positive dynamics have alternate categories of dynamics stabilized by high-severity and low-severity disturbance regimes. Contrary to prevailing ecological theory, systems with positive neighborhood effects can have similar levels of compositional stability across tree, stand, and landscape scales. Neighborhood effect theory can help explain responses of landscapes to large-scale land clearing and novel effects brought on by factors such as invasive species and deer overabundance.
Investigation of Hg uptake and transport between paddy soil and rice seeds combining Hg isotopic composition and speciation
Authors: Feng C. , Pedrero Z. , Li P. , Du B. , Feng X. , Monperrus M. , Tessier E. , Berail S. , Amouroux D.
Published: February 2016

Human consumption of rice constitutes a potential toxicological risk in mercury (Hg) polluted areas such as Hg mining regions in China. It is recognized to be an important source of Hg for the local human diet considering the efficient bioaccumulation of methylmercury (MeHg) in rice seed. To assess Hg sources and uptake pathways to the rice plants, Hg speciation and isotopic composition were investigated in rice seeds and their corresponding paddy soils from different locations within the Wanshan Hg mining area (Guizhou Province, China). A large variation of Hg speciation is observed in rice seeds and paddy soils irrespective of the sampling location. Mass dependent fractionation (MDF) of Hg in rice seeds differs by up to ∼4.0 ‰ in δ202Hg values, while mass independent fractionation (MIF) of Hg isotopes remains constant (Δ199Hg ∼ 0‰). Hg isotopic composition in rice seeds covaries with that of paddy soils but exhibits lighter isotopic signature (δ202Hg). Such isotopic offset is mainly attributed to plant uptake and translocation processes. Also, seeds containing higher MeHg (MeHg/total Hg > 50%) have significantly heavier Hg isotopes suggesting that MeHg uptake and transport to the seed in such rice plants is facilitated compared to inorganic Hg.
Health visitors' and school nurses' perceptions of promoting dental health in children
Authors: Coll Anne Marie , Filipponi Teresa , Richards Wayne
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to explore the views of health visitors and school nurses with regard to their role in oral health promotion and their understanding of the issues surrounding the delivery of effective oral health promotion in their daily practice. A focus group was conducted with school nurses (n=6) and health visitors (n=3) who had recently completed the Evidence-Based Public Health core module as part of their higher degree specialist community public health nurse (SCPHN) programme of study in 2014. A 12-item focus group interview schedule was devised in which face and content validity were established. A thematic analysis was then undertaken in which themes and subthemes were identified. Although health visitors and school nurses are best placed to take the lead on oral health promotion in children and young people, several barriers were identified, which prevented them from performing this role effectively and confidently. A recommendation is made for more training, focused on behaviour change principles of concordance and setting realistic targets tailored to the needs of those children and young people who need it most.
Using coaching to enhance teamwork
Authors: Bailey Beverley
Published: February 2016

Beverley Bailey looks at how coaching principles can be a powerful way to develop teams and a useful strategy for approaching complex family interventions.
Research roundup: February 2016
Authors: Brook Judy , Seal Joanne , Murray Joy
Published: February 2016

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles that may be of interest to health visitors is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Intermittent self-catheterisation: a viable option for older patients
Authors: Bardsley Alison
Published: February 2016

Many people living in care homes may experience urinary incontinence and bladder dysfunction. Alison Bardsley describes how intermittent self-catheterisation can be a worthwhile consideration for health professionals
Verification of death: what nurses need to know
Authors: Potts Kathryn
Published: February 2016

Verifying the death of a patient can be a difficult process, both emotionally and professionally, for care home staff. Kathryn Potts describes a masterclass developed in response to an identified need for more education on this subject
Preparing for a CQC interview: the legal implications
Authors: Adamson Rachel
Published: February 2016

A Care Quality Commission (CQC) interview can be a daunting prospect for those working in a care home. But if you prepare thoroughly and get prompt legal advice, it needn't be anything to fear, argues Rachel Adams
Green is good: making your care home more energy-efficient
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: February 2016

Saving energy doesn't just make sense for the planet—it makes sense for your wallet. Adam Bernstein explains why every care home should care about its carbon footprint
Has Europe redefined the meaning of ‘working time’?
Authors: Stevens Mark
Published: February 2016

The European Court of Justice recently ruled that some journeys to and from work can now be considered working time, so what are the implications for employers? Mark Stevens investigates
De-constructing monoculturalism on the German screen: A critical cultural reading of On the Other Side
Authors: Khrebtan-Hörhager Julia
Published: February 2016

This article provides a critical cultural analysis of Fatih Akin’s On the Other Side; a celebrated European drama and a multiple award winner, as a case study depicting contemporary German Turkish intercultural dynamics. It focuses on the politics of intersectional representation of Turks and examines implications of strategic cinematographic othering in today’s Germany, marked by growing Islamophobia. Building upon Chancellor Merkel’s 2010 statement about the death of German multiculturalism, as well as her 2015 statement about multiculturalism being a ‘White Lie’, this article introduces a concept of Monoculturalism and explores its on-screen manifestations and cultural implications for the contemporary Europe.
Reviews
Authors: Pardoe Sheila , Whitley Leila
Published: February 2016

Caribbean Spaces: Esc apes from Twilight Zones, Carole Boyce Davies (2013) Urbana, Chicago and Springfield: University of Illinois Press, 250 pp., ISBN: 9780252079535, £18.49

Dest ination It aly: Representing Migration in Contemporary Media and Narrative, Emma Bond, Guido Bonsaver, Federico Faloppa (2015) Oxford, Bern, Berlin, Bruxelles, Frankfurt am Main, New York, Wien: Peter Lang, 467 pp., ISBN: 9783034309615, £45.00
Report
Authors: Villaverde Elisa Costa
Published: February 2016

Voicing the voiceless on radio: Language as the only tool – migrations, cultures and identities with audio and no visuals in the digital screen era

A review of the Spanish radio programme A Vivir, que son dos días, directed and presented by Javier del Pino
17. A 22:6 n-3 Rich Supplement Affects the Ruminal Microbial Community and Fermentation and Alters Plasma Metabolites
Authors: Lv Xuejiao , Mao Shengyong , Zhu Weiyun
Published: February 2016

This study investigated the effects of a 22:6 n-3 rich supplement on ruminal fermentation characteristics and microbial changes, and also the effects of a 22:6 n-3 rich supplement on plasma metabolites by using rumen cannulated wether goats in a 4×4 Latin square design. The 22:6 n-3 rich supplement was infused into the rumen of the goats twice daily in equal portions at a rate of 0.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 g/d [corresponding to 0, 0.4%, 0.8% and 1.5% of diets (dry material base), respectively]. The concentration of NH3-N and total volatile fatty acid (TVFA), and the molar proportions of acetate and butyrate were decreased by the supplement (P<0.001). The supplement decreased diversity of the rumen bacterial community (P<0.01), and reduced the abundance of Ruminococcus flavefaciens, R. albus, Fibrobacter succinogenes and protozoa (P<0.01). However, it increased the abundance of ruminal fungi (P<0.01). The supplement had no influence on the concentration of plasma glucose, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and urea but increased the concentration of triglycerides and total cholesterol (P<0.05). In conclusion, the 22:6 n-3 rich supplement inhibited ruminal fermentation and this was accompanied by the decrease of the abundance of ruminal microbes, and also affected plasma metabolites.
Effect of Alfalfa Protein Concentrate (APC) Supplementation to Fattener Diets on Performance, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality
Authors: Pietrzak Krzysztof , Grela Eugeniusz R.
Published: February 2016

The aim of the study was to estimate the effects of different levels of alfalfa protein concentrate (APC) supplementation on pig performance, carcass value and meat quality. The experiment was conducted on 50 crossbred pigs (PL × PLW) × Duroc of 29.0±0.5 kg initial body weight, which were divided into four treatment groups. Control (C) group was fed standard mixtures, groups E15 and E30 were fed with 1.5% or 3.0% APC additive, respectively. In group E30P the animals received feed including 3.0% APC for 14 days, followed by 14 treatment-free days. The production results were based on AGD, FCR, FI. Some slaughter traits and carcass value were measured. Determinations were carried out for physicochemical properties of fresh and thermally treated m. longissimus. The tissue samples (backfat, m. longissimus, liver, heart) were collected to analyze the fatty acid profile and cholesterol content. The recorded ADG was by 4.8% higher and FCR by 4.3% lower in E30P group as compared to control. The loin eye area was larger than in group C by 7.0% and by 8.3% in groups E30 and E30P, respectively. Carcass meatiness was also higher in groups E30 and E30P as compared to control, by 5.0% and 5.6%, respectively. The higher (P≤0.05) TPA parameters (hardness, chewiness and gumminess), as compared to control, was characteristic of the meat from animals receiving 3.0% APC. The lowest cholesterol content in the tissue samples (backfat, m. longissimus, liver) was recorded in group E30 (1.01, 0.51, 3.19 mg/g, respectively). Better fatty acid composition in backfat and m. longissimus was observed after 3.0% APC introduction into fatteners diet.
The Right for Regional Integration Organisations to Protect Democracy: Legitimacy at the Regional Level?
Authors: Nyman-Metcalf Katrin , Papageorgiou Ioannis
Published: February 2016

Recently there have been several examples of different regional integration systems intervening to prevent unconstitutional events. The interventions can be based on explicit powers or be developed in response to events. This happens despite most regional integration systems having economic cooperation rather than explicit democratisation aims. Organs that issue laws or take constraining decisions must have a clear right to do this and a basis for exercising power-in other words, be legitimate. Where legitimacy comes from is debated, but as most countries today are democracies or purport to be, it somehow emanates from the people. National governments have a higher degree of legitimacy than regional integration organisations, possibly except the European Union. Regional integration organisations have to prove their legitimacy. The article examines if, to what extent, and on what basis regional integration systems have the right to exercise an independent role on the global stage. Legitimacy is a precondition for effective application of decisions of the organisation. Given the frequent lack of strong enforcement mechanisms, the question of legitimacy becomes even more important. With strong legitimacy, decisions taken by the regional integration organisation will be followed to a large extent even despite absence of effective enforcement mechanisms.
Restrictions on European Union Citizens’ Freedom of Movement and Residence in the Country on Grounds of Public Policy, Public Security and Public Health
Authors: Junevičius Algis , Daugėlienė Rasa
Published: February 2016

The free movement of persons is one of the most successful European Union projects, serving as a majorly important factor promoting the European integration processes. The adoption of the Treaty on the European Union and the creation of EU citizenship implemented significant changes: the status of EU citizens and their right to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States can no longer be interpreted in the way it was before the adoption of the Treaty on the European Union. There are no requirements for EU citizens within the Treaty to pursue professional or independent activities or to work under an employment contract in order to access provided rights. However, the right of free movement is not unlimited. The administrations of the Member State governments are authorized to impose restictions on the free movement of citizens. In the light of these facts, this article examines exceptions in the field of free movement of persons and indentifies concepts of public policy, public security and public health. Special attention is given to so-called rule limitation of restrictions and to the mechanism of protection against expulsion from the country. The article concludes by saying that the institutions of Member State governments have the right to evaluate threats within the territory of the country and to decide on the content of public security by themselves. However, their discretion can not be used as an instrument to treat the conduct of other Member State citizens in a worse way than that of their own local citizens.
Czech pension reform: how to reconcile equivalence with fiscal discipline
Authors: Potůček Martin , Rudolfová Veronika
Published: February 2016

One of the recent changes in the Czech Republic’s pension system was provoked by a petition to the Constitutional Court. The setting of bend points for determining the amount of pensions depending on the insured person’s previous earnings was contested as discrimination against higher income categories. The Constitutional Court granted the petition. The result was an approval and implementation of an amendment to Act No. 155/1995 Coll., on Pension Insurance, that for the purposes of calculating the level of old-age pensions favoured the highest income decile at the expense of most other insured persons, namely those with middle incomes. Simultaneously, the political criterion of fiscal discipline was applied to ensure the financial sustainability of the pension system. In analysing this case, we critically adopt the theory of actor-centred institutionalism and the theory of the policy cycle. From the nature of the analysed case it follows that we pay attention mainly to the legislative process which resulted in the amendment. Our methodology is dominated by analysis of documents (legal norms, court decisions, political programmes, official publications) and political and administrative communication (including debates on legislative drafts in the executive and legislature).
Laboratory Experiments in Teaching Public Economics and Policy
Authors: Špačková Zuzana
Published: February 2016

This paper deals with classroom experiments in economics, which have been derived from laboratory experiments. These experiments cover a broad range of topics, from strictly economic ones (like market games or auctions) to those with overlaps to other domains such as public policy. The paper discusses different methodologies of research and classroom experiments, introduces the benefits of the latter and presents a concrete teaching experiment used in public economics courses at the Faculty of Economics and Administration of Masaryk University. Another link between economic experiments and public policy is outlined here as well, namely the importance of experimental results for public policy makers.
An Overview of Discourses on Knowledge in Policy: Thinking Knowledge, Policy and Conflict Together
Authors: Sedlačko Michal , Staroňová Katarína
Published: February 2016

Around the world, there is a growing interest among policy scholars and practitioners in the role of knowledge in relation to public policy. These debates are accompanied by some confusion about what is meant by knowledge or evidence, as well as controversies around the role of scientists and suspicions of increasingly technocratic decision making. Our aim is to provide a useful overview of the major debates in this paper, and to trace six dominant discourses in current research that address the role of scientific knowledge or expertise in the policy process. We distinguish evidence-based policy making, knowledge utilisation, policy learning, knowledge transfer, social construction of knowledge and boundaries, and knowing in practice as separate discourses. We show how they differ in their understanding of knowledge, of the problem to solve in terms of the role of knowledge in policy, of practical implications, as well as in their understanding of public policy and in their ontologies and epistemologies. A condensed and structured representation serves as a basis for conducting comparisons across discourses as well as to open ways for analysis of strategic associations between the discourses. We hope to contribute to extending the discussion of knowledge in policy into the realm of epistemic politics and we suggest several avenues for future research that can draw on a range of concepts from across all of the discourses.
Measuring the Use of Knowledge in Policy Development
Authors: Witting Antje
Published: February 2016

Public hearings are frequently used on all levels of government to systematically collect and analyze information in the early stages of legislative policymaking. The methods currently employed measure knowledge utilization in this context by means of citation analysis of edited articles and/or reports that summarize the information shared at these meetings. By combining citation analysis and social network analysis, this article develops a methodology that can be used to capture citations in transcripts of public hearings that precede these reports. In order to demonstrate its strengths and weaknesses, the method is utilized to analyze the 2009 hearings that informed the 2010 House of Commons Transport Committee report on developing the capacity of major roads in the United Kingdom to meet the country’s strategic transport needs. The research shows a good degree of consistency between two independent coders who employed this method to distinguish citations from non-citations and classify the data. It is concluded that the method can be utilized to reliably measure knowledge utilization at public hearings, and that it can be employed in conjunction with research that focuses on measuring citations in memos, briefings, articles or reports integrating some of the evidence given at these meetings.
What Do Diploma Theses Unveil about Academic Public Policy in the Czech Republic?
Authors: Mouralová Magdalena , Hejzlarová Eva M. , Holík Rudolf , Hubáček Miroslav , Jeřábková Anna
Published: February 2016

Although textbooks, conference papers, scientific journals and monographs deal with the research aspects of public policy, only little attention is paid to the way it is taught at universities. In this article we aim to explore academic public policy in the Czech Republic - specifically in terms of teaching outputs - using a unique method: an analysis of diploma theses. In the sample there were diploma theses defended within all the full-time Master’s study programmes having “public policy” in their names in the Czech Republic between 1995 and 2013. We conclude that there are two traditions of academic public policy in the Czech Republic, which enriches previous findings in the area and makes them more accurate. The research design and thoroughly described methodology invite other researchers to conduct international comparison of the features of academic public policy. The findings may also illustrate the trajectory made by the newly established discipline of public policy in the past twenty years in the Czech Republic, which may be of great interest to the newly formed international public policy community.
Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) in obese children: no relationship to growth, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3
Authors: Reinehr Thomas , Roth Christian L. , Woelfle Joachim
Published: February 2016

Background:

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) is a hepatic protein that plays a critical role in liver, adipose tissue, and bone metabolism. Animal models reported an increase of FGF-21 and associated growth disturbances in undernutrition. Therefore, we studied the impact of weight loss in obese children on growth, FGF-21, and insulin-like factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations.

Methods:

We analyzed height, serum concentrations of FGF-21, IGF-1, IGFBP-3, leptin, and insulin at baseline and 1 year later in 30 obese children with substantial weight loss (reduction >0.5 BMI-SDS) and in 30 obese children of similar age, gender, and pubertal stage with stable BMI-SDS. All children participated in a 1-year lifestyle intervention. Height and IGF-1 was transformed to standard deviation score (SDS). Multiple linear regression analyses adjusted for age, gender, and pubertal stage were performed.

Results:

At baseline, height-SDS was significantly related to IGF-1-SDS (β-coefficient 0.68 95% confidence interval (95% CI)±0.49; p=0.008) and leptin (β-coefficient 0.042 95% CI±0.030; p=0.008), but not to FGF-21 or insulin. FGF-21 was not significantly associated with IGF-1 or IGFBP-3. In longitudinal analysis, changes of FGF-21 were not significantly related to changes of height, IGF-1-SDS or IGFBP-3. However, in the subgroup of 30 children with substantial BMI-SDS reduction, FGF-21, leptin, insulin, and HOMA decreased significantly.

Conclusion:

As there was no significant association between FGF-21 and growth or IGF-1 both in cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, these findings do not support the hypothesis that FGF-21 is involved in growth of obese children. Further studies are necessary to understand the multiple alterations in the growth hormone (GH) axis in obese children.
Bulk Polymerization of Styrene using Multifunctional Initiators in a Batch Reactor: A Comprehensive Mathematical Model
Authors: Berkenwald E. , Laganá M. L. , Acuña P. , Morales G. , Estenoz D.
Published: February 2016

A detailed, comprehensive mathematical model for bulk polymerization of styrene using multifunctional initiators – both linear and cyclic – in a batch reactor was developed. The model is based on a kinetic mechanism that considers thermal initiation and chemical initiation by sequential decomposition of labile groups, propagation, transfer to monomer, termination by combination and re-initiation reactions due to undecomposed labile groups. The model predicts the evolution of global reaction variables (e.g, concentration of reagents, products, radical species and labile groups) as well as the evolution of the detailed complete polymer molecular weight distributions, with polymer species characterized by chain length and number of undecomposed labile groups. The mathematical model was adjusted and validated using experimental data for various peroxide-type multifunctional initiators: diethyl ketone triperoxide (DEKTP, cyclic trifunctional), pinacolone diperoxide (PDP, cyclic bifunctional) and 1,1-bis(tert-butylperoxy)cyclohexane (L331, linear bifunctional). The model very adequately predicts polymerization rates and complete molecular weight distributions. The model is used to theoretically evaluate the influence of initiator structure and functionality as well as reaction conditions.
A Robust Extended State Observer for the Estimation of Concentration and Kinetics in a CSTR
Authors: Sánchez Torres Juan Diego , Botero Héctor A. , Jiménez Esteban , Jaramillo Oscar , Loukianov Alexander G.
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a state estimation structure for a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR), by means of an Asymptotic Observer jointly with a disturbance high order sliding mode-based estimator. The proposed estimation scheme allows the asymptotic reconstruction of the concentration inside the reactor based on the measures of the temperature inside the reactor and the temperature inside the jacket, in presence of changes in the global coefficient of heat transfer

U
A

$UA$

, the Arrhenius constant

k
0

${k_0}$

and the activation energy E. Additionally, the structure is able to estimate

U
A

$UA$

and the kinetics term

k
0

e

−

E

R
T

${k_0}{e^{- {E \over {RT}}}}$

. The properties of the proposed scheme are proved mathematically and verified through numerical simulations.
Ground Truth Generating Tool for Traffic Video Detector
Authors: Bigaj Szymon , Głowacz Andrzej , Kościow Jacek , Mikrut Zbigniew , Pawlik Piotr
Published: February 2016

The paper presents an application for generating ground truth data for the purposes of video detection and justifies its use in systems which analyze road traffic videos. The usefulness of described application in the development of video detection software is presented - especially during scene configuration and comparative analysis of video detection results versus ground truth data. The latter is possible due to simplicity of the result text files generated in a similar way both by the presented application and by the video detection algorithm. Two exemplary applications of the tool designed to generate ground truth data are presented, together with a discussion of their construction, functionality and abilities.
Segmentation of Objects in Log-Polar Space
Authors: Bubliński Zbigniew , Pawlik Piotr
Published: February 2016

The aim of this work was to develop a simple and fast yet robust algorithm for segmentation of objects in log-polar space. Assuming that some interesting parts of an image are selected by fixation of point of attention, pixels located close to fixation points are transformed to a log-polar space, then edge detection is performed. As a final step, detected edges are processed in a specific manner, which should lead to obtain boundaries of objects. After some smoothing, the detected boundaries are transformed back to a Cartesian space and are superimposed on an original image in order to show results of segmentation.
Gradation of Video Quality in Dash Services Using the H.264/SVC Coding
Authors: Przyłucki Sławomir , Sierszeń Artur
Published: February 2016

The share of video streaming services in the global network traffic is increasing every year. For this reason the problem of optimal use of the available bandwidth, while ensuring an acceptable level of quality of the transmitted video is becoming an important issue. A combination of two techniques, DASH streaming and H.264/AVC video coding can be an important step towards solving this problem. The article presents the discussion the choice of the proper gradation of SVC encoding parameters inside representation of video content in DASH systems. We propose the Temporal Preservation (T-P) method of selection of the SVC stream structure to optimize the grading changes of video quality. This method allows for the implementation of DASH adaptation to changes in available bandwidth on the transmission link, which minimizes the impact of this process on the quality of the received video. According to results of conducted tests, the T-P method offers a better final video quality in DASH systems than similar solutions based on a standard adaptation method. The comparison with the DASH system that uses H.264/AVC encoding also showed superiority of the T-P method, especially in situations of high network congestion
Feasibility of parameter estimation in hepatitis C viral dynamics models
Authors: Arthur Joseph G. , Tran Hien T. , Aston Philip
Published: February 2016

Methodologies are presented for assessing the feasibility of parameter estimation in nonlinear ordinary differential equation (ODE) models. These methods are applied to a recent model for hepatitis C viral dynamics. Subset selection is performed on the model parameters, and maximum likelihood estimation is conducted using available data from the literature.
A Cognitive Theory-based Opportunistic Resource-Pooling Scheme for Ad hoc Networks
Authors: Hegde Seema B. , Babu B. Satish , Venkataram Pallapa
Published: February 2016

Resource pooling in ad hoc networks deals with accumulating computing and network resources to implement network control schemes such as routing, congestion, traffic management, and so on. Pooling of resources can be accomplished using the distributed and dynamic nature of ad hoc networks to achieve collaboration between the devices. Ad hoc networks need a resource-pooling technique that offers quick response, adaptability, and reliability. In this context, we are proposing an opportunistic resource-pooling scheme that uses a cognitive computing model to accumulate the resources with faster resource convergence rate, reliability, and lower latency. The proposed scheme is implemented using the behaviors-observations-beliefs cognitive model, in which the resource-pooling decisions are made based on accumulated knowledge over various behaviors exhibited by nodes in ad hoc networks.
Determination of antepartum and intrapartum risk factors associated with neonatal intensive care unit admission
Authors: Burgess Angela P.H. , Katz Justin , Pessolano Joanna , Ponterio Jane , Moretti Michael , Lakhi Nisha A.
Published: February 2016

To determine antepartum and intrapartum factors that are associated with admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) among infants delivered between 36.0 and 42.0 weeks at our institution.

The retrospective cohort study included 73 consecutive NICU admissions and 375 consecutive non-NICU admissions. Data on demographic, antepartum, intrapartum and neonatal factors were collected. The primary endpoint defined was admission to NICU. Univariate analyses using the Student’s

Those with a significantly higher risk of NICU admission underwent induction of labor with prostaglandin analogs (12.5% vs. 24.7%, P=0.007). Length of first stage ≥720 min (33.5% vs. 51.9%, P=0.011), length of second stage of labor ≥240 min (10.6% vs. 31.6%, P<0.001) and prolonged rupture of membranes ≥120 min (54.0% vs. 80.0%, P=0.001) were all associated with an increased chance of NICU admission. Intrapartum factors predictive of NICU admission included administration of meperidine (11.7% vs. 27.4%, P<0.001), presence of preeclampsia (5.5% vs. 0.8%, P=0.015), use of intrapartum IV antihypertensives (1.1% vs. 13.7%, P<0.001), maternal fever (5.3% vs. 31.5%, P<0.001), fetal tachycardia (1.9% vs. 12.3%, P<0.001), and presence of meconium (30% vs. 8%, P<0.001).

Identification of modifiable risk factors may reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality. Results from this study can be used to develop and validate a risk model based on combined antepartum and intrapartum risk factors.
Crystal structure of succinic acid — 4-((pyridin-4-ylmethyl)sulfanylpyridine (1/1), C15H16N2O4S
Authors: Wang Zhi-Peng , Zhang Fan , Zhang Qi-Qi , Sun Xin-Zhan
Published: February 2016

C15H16N2O4S, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 7.3024(6) Å, b = 10.7115(7) Å, c = 11.2743(6) Å, α = 109.491(5)°, β = 100.496(5)°, γ = 107.860(5)°, V = 750.44(9) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0691, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.2136, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of aquabis(1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-4-oxo-7-(piperazin-4-ium-1-yl)-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylato-κ2
O,O′)copper(II) thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylate trihydrate, [Cu(C17H18N3FO3)2(H2O)](C6H2SO4)·3(H2O)
Authors: Fan Zhuo-Wen , Li Long , Wang Liang-Liang , Liu Ji-Zhi
Published: February 2016

C40H46Cu1N6O14F2S, monoclinic, P21/c, a = 15.6688(5) Å, b = 14.2411(4) Å, c = 22.0126(10) Å, β = 124.327(3)°, V = 4056.4(3) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0579, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1677, T = 293 K.
Crystal structure of trans-bis(2-methylmaleato-κ
2O,O′) bis(piperazinium-κ
N) cobalt(II) trihydrate, C18H36CoN4O11
Authors: Kang Jaeun , Ok Kang Min , Do Junghwan
Published: February 2016

C18H36CoN4O11, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 19.3607(4) Å, b = 13.4260(3) Å, c = 11.2917(2) Å, β = 125.299(1), V = 2395.50(8) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0251, wR
ref
(F2) = 0.0719, T = 123 K.
Urban Policy in Election Campaigns – The Case of the Presidents of the Biggest Cities of Lower Silesia
Authors: Glinka Kamil
Published: February 2016

The main aim of the article is to present the relationship between urban policy and the marketing activity of the presidents of Wrocław, Wałbrzych, Legnica, and Jelenia Góra during the period of the 2014 local government election campaign. Analysis of the marketing activity of the presidents, conducted via chosen social media, enables presentation of the most important conditions and reasons for using urban policy in the competition for the support of citizens – potential voters. First, it will show that the marketing actions of a president during an election campaign are not the means of creating the image of a city but gaining the support of voters. Second, the analysis will prove that the election message constructed by presidents is based on the actions conducted in the various areas of urban policy.
Issues relating to classification of colluvial soils in young morainic areas (Chełmno and Brodnica Lake District, northern Poland)
Authors: Świtoniak Marcin
Published: February 2016

Colluvial soils (in Polish: gleby deluwialne) are an important part of the soil cover in young morainic landscapes of northern Poland. They evolved as a result of the accumulation of eroded material at the foot of the slopes and bottoms of closed depressions. The aim of this study was to determine the systematic position of colluvial soils commonly found in the Chełmno and Brodnica Lake District, northern Poland. Ten soil pits located in different types of landscapes were selected for testing soil properties. The colluvial material is characterized by diversified properties: thickness, particle-size distribution, organic carbon content, color, pH, and base saturation. As a result, the investigated soils represent broad spectrum of typological units according to Polish Soil Classification (2011). Some of them contain epipedons mollic and meet the criteria of colluvial chernozemic soils. They were found mainly on buried black earths in areas with small slope inclinations. Many pedons contain pale colored acidic colluvial material with low base saturation and low organic carbon content and must be classified as other types: arenosols (in Polish: arenosole) or rusty soils (in Polish: gleby rdzawe). These soils occur mostly in areas with intensive relief and overlay the different soil types, including rusty soil and organic soils. They are formed as a result of soils lessivés and rusty soils truncation. An introduction of the additional units of “proper colluvial soils” which have epipedon ochric, and “rusty-colluvial soils” with endopedon sideric to the next edition of Polish Soil Classification would enable a more precise expression of the genesis of these soils in the type rank. Moreover, the definition of chernozemic colluvial soils could be extended to colluvial soils with umbric horizon. Classifying soils derived from colluvial material as soils of other types leads to the disappearance of this units on maps and underestimation of the impact of denudation on the soil cover.
A Numerical Study for the Relationship between Natural Manganese Dendrites and DLA Patterns
Authors: Ozbey Tugba , Bayirli Mehmet
Published: February 2016

The formation mechanisms and the origin of manganese dendrites on the magnesite ore have been under discussion. The growth process of the manganese dendrites is statistically studied by comparing them to aggregations obtained according to the diffusion limited aggregation (DLA) model via Monte Carlo simulations. In this case, ten manganese dendrite patterns changing from the least dense to the densest aggregations on the surface are separately selected to determine the relationship between real and simulated patterns. The sticking parameter is ranged from 0.05≤t≤1. The density–density correlation functions C(r) (their critical exponent A), fractal dimension D

f
, critical exponent α, and critical exponent β pertaining to the root mean square (rms) thickness have been computed for both the ten manganese dendrites and the simulated aggregations representing them. The results indicate that manganese dendrites may be determined with the general DLA model. Analyses of manganese dendrites, both scaling and simulations, suggest the growth mechanism for the macroscopic expression of crystalline anisotropy for the dendritic patterns. These results are in good agreement with the values in other literature and can be helpful in comparing natural and simulated aggregations (both dendritic and compact deposits).
‘Celts: art and identity’ exhibition: ‘New Celticism’ at the British Museum
Authors: Fernández-Götz Manuel
Published: February 2016

Controversies about the ‘Celts’ have constituted an ongoing debate over the last few decades, with postures ranging from blank scepticism and denial, to critical revisions, but also to the maintenance of more traditional approaches. After a lively and overall useful debate in the pages of Antiquity between 1996–1998 (principally with articles by Vincent and Ruth Megaw vs Simon James and John Collis), Simon James's controversial volume The Atlantic Celts. Ancient people or modern invention? (1999) attracted considerable attention, both among scholars and the wider public, encouraging discussions about the relationship—if any—between modern Celtic identities and the ancient Celts. A major milestone was reached with the publication of John Collis's monograph The Celts. Origins, myths and inventions (2003), which is probably the best historiographical review about the construction of the concept and the different sources involved from Antiquity to modern times. One of his main points is that classical sources never referred to the presence of Celts on the British Isles and that the use of the term for the populations of ancient Britain was mainly an invention of the modern era (see also Morse 2005, How the Celts came to Britain). From a rather different perspective, new approaches based mostly on linguistics emphasise the crucial role of the Atlantic façade in the development of Celtic languages (Cunliffe & Koch 2010).
REM Sleep Is Causal to Successful Consolidation of Dangerous and Safety Stimuli and Reduces Return of Fear after Extinction
Authors: Menz Mareike M. , Rihm Julia S. , Büchel Christian
Published: February 2016

Sleep has a profound impact on memory consolidation. In this study, human participants underwent Pavlovian conditioning and extinction before we manipulated nocturnal memory consolidation by a split-night protocol with 80 healthy male participants in four groups. Recall after a second (recovery) night of sleep revealed that sleeping the first half of the night, which is dominated by slow-wave sleep, did not improve recall. Conversely, sleeping the second half of the night, which is dominated by rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, led to better discrimination between fear-relevant and neutral stimuli in behavioral and autonomic measures. Meanwhile, staying awake in the second half of the night led to an increase of discrimination between extinguished and neutral stimuli, which was paralleled by an activation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and amygdala. We conclude that sleep, especially REM sleep, is causal to successful consolidation of dangerous and safety stimuli and reduces return of fear after extinction.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWe use a split-night protocol to investigate the influence of different sleep phases on successful consolidation of conditioned fear and extinction. Such a protocol uses the fact that in humans the first half of the night is dominated by slow-wave sleep, whereas during the second half, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is more predominant. Our data show that only REM-rich sleep during the second half of the night promoted good discrimination between fear-relevant and neutral stimuli during recall, while staying awake led to a recovery of discrimination between extinguished and neutral stimuli. This suggests that sleep following extinction contributes independently to successful extinction memory consolidation.
Preferential Inhibition of Tonically over Phasically Activated NMDA Receptors by Pregnane Derivatives
Authors: Vyklicky Vojtech , Smejkalova Tereza , Krausova Barbora , Balik Ales , Korinek Miloslav , Borovska Jirina , Horak Martin , Chvojkova Marketa , Kleteckova Lenka , Vales Karel , Cerny Jiri , Nekardova Michaela , Chodounska Hana , Kudova Eva , Vyklicky Ladislav
Published: February 2016

PostsynapticN-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) phasically activated by presynaptically released glutamate are critical for synaptic transmission and plasticity. However, under pathological conditions, excessive activation of NMDARs by tonically increased ambient glutamate contributes to excitotoxicity associated with various acute and chronic neurological disorders. Here, using heterologously expressed GluN1/GluN2A and GluN1/GluN2B receptors and rat autaptic hippocampal microisland cultures, we show that pregnanolone sulfate inhibits NMDAR currents induced by a prolonged glutamate application with a higher potency than the NMDAR component of EPSCs. For synthetic pregnanolone derivatives substituted with a carboxylic acid moiety at the end of an aliphatic chain of varying length and attached to the steroid skeleton at C3, the difference in potency between tonic and phasic inhibition increased with the length of the residue. The steroid with the longest substituent, pregnanolone hemipimelate, had no effect on phasically activated receptors while inhibiting tonically activated receptors. In behavioral tests, pregnanolone hemipimelate showed neuroprotective activity without psychomimetic symptoms. These results provide insight into the influence of steroids on neuronal function and stress their potential use in the development of novel therapeutics with neuroprotective action.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTSynaptic activation ofN-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) plays a key role in synaptic plasticity, but excessive tonic NMDAR activation mediates excitotoxicity associated with many neurological disorders. Therefore, there is much interest in pharmacological agents capable of selectively blocking tonically activated NMDARs while leaving synaptically activated NMDARs intact. Here, we show that an endogenous neurosteroid pregnanolone sulfate is more potent at inhibiting tonically than synaptically activated NMDARs. Further, we report that a novel synthetic analog of pregnanolone sulfate, pregnanolone hemipimelate, inhibits tonic NMDAR currents without inhibiting the NMDAR component of the EPSC and shows neuroprotective activityin vivowithout inducing psychomimetic side effects. These results suggest steroids may have a clinical advantage over other known classes of NMDAR inhibitors.
Enhancing GABA Signaling during Middle Adulthood Prevents Age-Dependent GABAergic Interneuron Decline and Learning and Memory Deficits in ApoE4 Mice
Authors: Tong Leslie M. , Yoon Seo Yeon , Andrews-Zwilling Yaisa , Yang Alyssa , Lin Victoria , Lei Hanci , Huang Yadong
Published: February 2016

Apolipoprotein E4 (apoE4) is the major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. We previously reported that female apoE4 knock-in (KI) mice had an age-dependent decline in hilar GABAergic interneurons that correlated with the extent of learning and memory deficits, as determined by Morris water maze (MWM), in aged mice. Enhancing GABA signaling by treating aged apoE4-KI mice with the GABAAreceptor potentiator pentobarbital (PB) for 4 weeks before and during MWM rescued the learning and memory deficits. Here, we report that withdrawal of PB treatment for 2 weeks before MWM abolished the rescue in aged apoE4-KI mice, suggesting the importance of continuously enhancing GABA signaling in the rescue. However, treating apoE4-KI mice during middle adulthood (9–11 months of age) with PB for 6 weeks prevented age-dependent hilar GABAergic interneuron decline and learning and memory deficits, when examined at 16 month of age. These data imply that increasing inhibitory tone after substantial GABAergic interneuron loss may be an effective symptomatic, but not a disease-modifying, treatment for AD related to apoE4, whereas a similar intervention before substantial interneuron loss could be a disease-modifying therapeutic.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWe previously reported that female apoE4-KI mice had an age-dependent decline in hilar GABAergic interneurons that correlated with the extent of cognitive deficits in aged mice. The current study demonstrates that enhancing GABA signaling by treating aged apoE4-KI mice with a GABAAreceptor potentiator pentobarbital (PB) before and during behavioral tests rescued the cognitive deficits; but withdrawal of PB treatment for 2 weeks before the tests abolished the rescue, suggesting the importance of continuously enhancing GABA signaling. However, treating apoE4-KI mice during middle adulthood with PB for a short period of time prevented age-dependent hilar GABAergic interneuron decline and cognitive deficits late in life, suggesting early intervention by enhancing GABA signaling as a potential strategy to prevent AD related to apoE4.