bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of role of vascular endothelial growth factor, Annexin A5 and Apelin by immunohistochemistry method in placenta of preeclampsia patients
Authors: Colcimen Nese , Bulut Gülay , Ergul Erkec Ozlem , Ragbetli Murat Cetin
Published: December 2017

Preeclampsia is a disease characterized by hypertension and proteinuria occurred after 20 weeks of gestation. Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.  The pathophysiological mechanism of preeclampsia is not known exactly yet. Preeclampsia endothelial cell dysfunction, associated with inadequate trophoblastic invasion is characterized by abnormal placentation. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) according to is an angiogenic cytokine, Annexin A5 is among endogenous peptides are both expressed from placental trophoblasts and Apelin is a multifunctional peptide and expressed by placental trophoblasts and endothelial cells. It was aimed to investigate roles of these parameters occurring in preeclampsia and to compare immunoreactivity of them in normal and preeclamptic placenta. In this study, placentas were collected from 20 normotensive pregnant women as controls, 16 mild-preeclamptic pregnant women, and 16 severe preeclamptic women. VEGF, Annexin A5 and Apelin were examined in samples of placenta tissues by streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex immunohistochemical methods. Immunoreactivity scores (IRS) were obtained for each parameter.  VEGF and Apelin IRS were increased significantly in preeclamptic groups compared with control group (p <0.026, p<0.002 respectively). But Annexin A5 IRS was decreased significantly in preeclamptic groups compared with control group (p<0.04). In correlation with the intensity of disease, increase in VEGF and Apelin, and decrease in Annexin A5 supports roles of hemo-dynamic alterations in fetoplacental circulation and structural alterations in uteroplacental bed occurring in preeclampsia.
The in Vitro and in Vivo Anti-Cancer Potential of Mycobacterium Cell Wall Fraction (MCWF) Against Canine Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Filion C Mario , Rodrigues Lucas , Johannes Chad , Masic Aleksandar
Published: December 2017

Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), is the most common form of urinary bladder cancer in dogs and represents 2% of all reported canine cancers. Canine TCC is usually a high-grade invasive cancer and problems associated with TCC include urinary tract obstruction and distant metastases in more than 50% of affected dogs. TCC is most commonly located in the trigone region of the bladder precluding complete surgical resection. Current treatment options for TCC in dogs include medical therapy, surgery or radiation. Mycobacterium Cell Wall Fraction (MCWF) is a biological immunomodulator derived from non-pathogenic Mycobacterium phlei. MCWF possesses a potential in multiple veterinary areas such as anticancer therapy, palliative care and treatment of infectious diseases in both small and large animals. MCWF is considered a bifunctional anti-cancer agent that induces apoptosis of cancer cells and stimulates cytokine and chemokines synthesis by cells of the immune system. Here we report the results from in vitro and in vivo studies that could suggest use of MCWF as an additional treatment option for TCC in dogs. Particularly, we demonstrated that MCWF induces a concentration dependent inhibition of proliferation of K9TCC cells which was associated with the induction of apoptosis as measured by the proteolytic activation of caspase-3 and the degradation of PARP. Furthermore, we demonstrated the safety and potential for in vivo MCWF treatment efficacy in dogs bearing stage T2 TCC by reducing clinical signs, and improving the quality of life in dogs with TCC.
The impact of water on the ambivalent behavior and paradoxical phenomenon of the amyloid-β fibril protein
Authors: Vajda Tamás , Perczel András
Published: December 2017

The crucial role of water in amyloid-β(Aβ) fibril proteins is evaluated in several ways including the water’s thermodynamic and kinetic solvation effects. As regards the water’s character, its hindered-rotation barriers are also considered. The following protein molecules considered here are: the Aβ40 (PDB ID: 2LMN), Aβ42 (PDB ID: 5KK3 and 2NAO) and the double-layered Aβ17−42 fibril. We discuss: (i) extracellular Aβ40 and Aβ42 fibril monomers exhibit an ambivalent propensity to transform into a helical form toward the N-term region and a β-strand-like form near the C-terminal; (ii) interfacial water molecules play a crucial role in protein-protein interactions, as molecular dynamics simulations have shown a significant impact on the protein-protein binding; (iii) it is shown that the spontaneous dimerization process of the Aβ42 fibril protein in water occurs via a two-step nucleation-accommodation mechanism; (iv) MD simulations of the double-layered Aβ17−42 fibril model show that the C↔C interface appears more energetically favorable than the N↔N interface due to large hydrophobic contacts; (v) the water’s role in the HET-s prion and in the Aβ fibrillar aggregates; (vi) it was found that the monomer-oligomer equilibrium spontaneously dissociates into stable monomeric species when they are incubated up to 3 μm for a longer time (>1 week) in a physiological buffer.
LTSD and GDMD features for Telephone Speech Endpoint Detection
Authors: Ouzounov Atanas
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes a new contour-based speech endpoint detector which combines the log-Group Delay Mean-Delta (log-GDMD) feature, an adaptive twothreshold scheme and an eight-state automaton. The adaptive thresholds scheme uses two pairs of thresholds - for the starting and for the ending points, respectively. Each pair of thresholds is calculated by using the contour characteristics in the corresponded region of the utterance. The experimental results have shown that the proposed detector demonstrates better performance compared to the Long-Term Spectral Divergence (LTSD) one in terms of endpoint accuracy. Additional fixed-text speaker verification tests with short phrases of telephone speech based on the Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) and left-to-right Hidden Markov Model (HMM) frameworks confirm the improvements of the verification rate due to the better endpoint accuracy.
A Survey on Key(s) and Keyless Image Encryption Techniques
Authors: Ranjan Kumar H. S. , Fathimath Safeeriya S. P. , Aithal Ganesh , Shetty Surendra
Published: December 2017

As in recent years digital data transmission and image application have been increasing, maintaining secure transmission of image is of high importance. Image Encryption is implemented to achieve security on image applications. This paper exhibits a survey on various existing image encryption techniques. The paper mainly focuses on two types: Image encryption with Key(s) and Image Encryption without Key(s). In addition it also describes several properties of a good image encryption technique. The paper presents a survey of most popular algorithms and research papers that are related with different image encryption techniques.
Operational Modal Analysis of the Cablestayed Footbridge
Authors: Kortiš Ján , Daniel Ľuboš , Farbák Matúš , Maliar Lukáš , Škarupa Milan
Published: December 2017

Modern architecture leads to design subtle bridge structures that are more sensitive to increased dynamic loading than the massive ones. This phenomenon can be especially observed on lightweight steel structures such as suspended footbridges. As a result, it is necessary to know precisely its dynamic characteristics, such as natural frequencies, natural shapes and damping of construction. This information can be used for further analysis such as damage detection, system identification, health monitoring, etc. or also for the design of new types of construction. For this purpose, classical modal analysis using trigger load or harmonic vibration exciter in combination with acceleration sensors is used in practice. However, there are many situations where it is not possible to stop the traffic or operation of the bridge. The article presents an experimental measurement of the dynamic parameters of the structure at the operating load using the operational modal analysis.
Experimental Investigation of the Vehicle–Ground Interaction – Experiment Preparation and Preliminary Results
Authors: Valašková Veronika , Vlček Jozef
Published: December 2017

Interaction of the moving vehicle and the ground represents the actual engineering, environmental and economic problem. Due to the complexity of the problem, a combination of the experimental measurement and the computational simulation to understand the interaction mechanism is the most beneficial approach. Results of the in-situ observation serve as an input for the numerical analysis and also as a background for the calibration of the model. Presented paper brings the summary of the experiment preparation and preliminary results which are necessary for further analyses and numerical models. Computational simulations will be helpful for understanding the vehicle-ground interaction when inputs will be verified by the experimental way at known boundary conditions.
Routine Testing of Bitumen Binders
Authors: Holý Michal , Remišová Eva
Published: December 2017

The quality of bituminous binders used in the construction and maintenance of road surfaces is currently assessed by empirical testing based on obtaining one value for specific boundary conditions, which were designed about 100 years ago. Basic empirical tests include the softening point and penetration, but the practice shows that these tests appear to be inadequate. The evaluation of changes of bitumen properties during the production and paving process of bituminous mixture is also important. The paper points out how the “traditional” tests as softening point and penetration and viscosity are sufficient to evaluate properties of bitumen binders.
Modelling of Railway Track Temperature Regime with Real Heat-Technical Values for Different Climatic Characteristics
Authors: Hodás Stanislav , Pultznerová Alžbeta
Published: December 2017

High quality of railway track construction is a major priority. One of the quality elements is the resistance to load of railway formation with individual structural layers caused by negative temperatures during the critical freezing period of winter. Numerical modelling allows obtaining more control outputs at different climatic loads. The presented paper shows the load of railway track model with different variants of climate and shows the importance in the designing of the non-transport load under negative temperatures, i.e. observation of transition of the zero isotherm through the layers of railway subgrade. If the subgrade layers of the railway formation are built with high quality and durability then the axis of the track will keep its geometric spatial position during the long-time operation.
Airport Planning and Design – Legal and Professional Competence Requirements
Authors: Kazda Antonin
Published: December 2017

Airport design and planning considerably differs from the design of other transport infrastructure. The reasons are the wide scope of regulation in civil aviation and the lack of links between the Civil Aviation Act and the Building Act. The effect is that the sequence of procedures, negotiation, and/or document approval is not clearly defined. The situation is further complicated by the fact that an airport is a unique construction both for the investor and for the local building authority. The paper is an outcome of our research, building on long-term experience in airport planning and design, and the elucidation of planning and approval processes with experts from the Transport Authority and the Ministry of Transport and Construction of the Slovak Republic.
Editorial 2016: Changes for the Future
Authors: Matulić Daniel , Tomljanović Tea , Piria Marina
Published: December 2017

By changing its editorial system, the Croatian Journal of Fisheries continues to move towards a more rigorous review which is slowly but surely strengthening its quality and impact. New editors-in-chief have been elected and a co-operation with De Gruyter Open publishers has been established. The official abbreviation of the Journal – CROAT J FISH – was released and it indicated an important change in the manuscript submission process. Also, this Editorial provides information on the articles published in 2015, as well as a list of reviewers who participated in the review process.
Zooplankton structure in two interconnected ponds: similarities and differences
Authors: Špoljar Maria , Tomljanović Tea , Dražina Tvrtko , Lajtner Jasna , Štulec Helena , Matulić Daniel , Fressl Jelena
Published: December 2017

The research of zooplankton diversity, abundance and trophic structure was conducted during the summer period in pelagial zone on the longitudinal profile of the Sutla River Backwater. Investigated site consists of two interconnected basins: transparent Upper Basin with submerged macrophytes and turbid Lower Basin without macrophytes in the littoral zone. In the Upper Basin, abundance and diversity of zooplankton in the pelagial was higher in comparison to the Lower Basin, with prevailing species of genus Keratella as microfilter-feeder, and genera of Polyartha and Trihocerca as macrofilter-feeder rotifers. On the contrary, in the Lower Basin, crustaceans dominated in abundance. Microfilter-feeder cladoceran (Bosmina longirostris) and larval and adult stages of macrofilter-feeder copepod (Macrocyclops albidus) prevailed in the Lower Basin. Fish predation pressure was more pronounced in the pelagial of the Upper Basin, indicated by low cladoceran abundance in the surface layer. Although the studied basins were interconnected, results indicate significant (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.05) differences in the zooplankton structure as a potential result of the macrophyte impact on environmental conditions and fish predation pressure.
Effects of storage conditions on quality characteristics of commercial aquafeeds and growth of African catfish Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Solomon Shola Gabriel , Tiamiyu Lateef Oloyede , Okomoda Victor Tosin , Adaga Kamwan
Published: December 2017

This study was conducted to determine the effect of storage conditions on the quality of feed and the aftermath effect of feeding fish with such feeds. Three commercial diets used for this study included Coppens®, Multifeed® and Vital feed®. Feed was stored either by opening the bag to the atmosphere (WO), the bag opened with neck tied using a rubber ring to prevent exposure to the atmosphere (OT) or sealed (SC) until the start of the feeding trials. The feed was stored under these conditions for six months. Nutrient analyses revealed significant changes in feeds held under the WO condition when compared with other storage conditions. Nutritive changes also varied with commercial feed type. Mould infestation of the feed was noticeable more in the WO condition of storage compared to the SC condition. After feeding C. gariepinus for fifty-six days, lesions were observed on fish fed mouldy feed held under the WO condition, which led to mass mortalities. Growth performance was higher in all fish fed SC stored feed, and for those fed Coppens® and Multifeed® under OT storage conditions. It is advised that storage of fish feeds up to six months should be undertaken with considerable care and attention.
Cannibalism and Performance Evaluation of Hybrids betweenClarias batrachusandClarias gariepinus
Authors: Olufeagba Samuel Olabode , Okomoda Victor Tosin
Published: December 2017

Cannibalism is an important characteristic of African catfish that significantly reduces the number of stocked fish at harvest. This study evaluates the effect of reciprocal hybridization ofClarias batrachusandClarias gariepinuson cannibalism and growth performance of their progenies in an indoor rearing system. The result obtained reveals excellent performance of hybrids ofC. gariepinus♂ andC. batrachus♀ over the purebreds in terms of growth. However, the reciprocal hybrids betweenC. gariepinus♀ andC. batrachus♂ all died few hours after hatching. Cannibalism was significantly reduced in the crosses betweenC. gariepinus♂ andC. batrachus♀ with 100% survival after five months of culture. Hence, this could be exploited in commercial production of catfish to reduce cannibalism and increase harvest size of fish farmers.
Morphometric Characteristics of CatfishSilurus triostegus(Heckel, 1843) from the Tigris and Shatt Al-Arab Rivers, Iraq
Authors: Jawad Laith A. , Al-Janabi Muhammad I. G.
Published: December 2017

Thirteen morphometric characters of catfishSilurus triosteguswere studied from three localities on the Tigris and Shatt al-Arab rivers, Iraq. Monthly samples revealed no significant differences between genders. Positive allometric growths for all morphometric characters studied were observed. This study gives information to fishery biologists about morphometric characters ofS. triostegusfrom the Tigris and Shatt al-Arab rivers to assist in planning of conservation strategies for this fish species.
Biological Characteristics of European Perch (Perca fluviatilis L., 1758) Inhabiting Lake Ladik (Samsun, Turkey)
Authors: Saygin Semra , Yilmaz Savas , Yazicioglu Okan , Polat Nazmi
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the growth features of European perch (Perca fluviatilis L., 1758) inhabiting Lake Ladik. A total of 858 individuals were caught. The total length and weight ranged from 8.2 to 27.5 cm and from 7.16 to 365.20 g, respectively. The age of the females ranged between 1 and 7 years and the age of the males ranged from 1 to 5 years. The female to male ratio was 1:0.19. The von Bertalanffy growth equation parameters were determined as L
∞=41.27 cm, W
∞=1251.40 g, K=0.10 (year−1), t
0 (year)=−1.98 for all samples. Length-weight relationship was calculated as W=0.0047TL
3.358 for all specimens. Length-length relationships (total length-standard length, total length-fork length, standard length-fork length) were highly significant (r2>0.98). The mean condition factor value was obtained as 1.28 for all fish. Condition factor showed statistically significant increase according to length classes.
Length-Weight Relationships, Condition Index and Sex Ratio of Mussel Lamellidens corrianus (Lea, 1834) in a Freshwater Lake, Northwest Bangladesh
Authors: Mondol Mostafizur Rahman , Nasrin Fouzia , Nahar Dil Afroz
Published: December 2017

Allometry, condition index and sex ratio in freshwater mussel Lamellidens corrianus (Lea, 1834) were studied from the freshwater lake at Rajshahi, Northwest Bangladesh during the summer 2013. The collected mussel specimens ranged from 3.69 cm to 9.98 cm in length, and 4.82 g to 80.67 g in weight. The study was focused on the relationships between length-height and length-weights (length-total weight, length-tissue wet weight, length-shell wet weight, length-tissue dry weight and length-shell dry weight), which were found not to be significantly different between male and female (P<0.05). The calculated regression equation of length-height relationship for the entire study period was H= 0.5215L-0.1482 for combined sex. The equations of length-total weight, length-tissue wet weight, length-shell weight, length-tissue dry weight and length-shell dry weight relationships of mussel were W= 0.1756L2.6775, W= 0.0261L2.8919, W= 0.0261L2.5524, W= 0.0065L2.8946 and W= 0.095L2.5109, respectively for combined sex. The relationships between length and height were linear, while that between length-weights follow the non-linear pattern. The overall male to female sex ratio was 1: 0.92 and did not differ significantly from the expected 1: 1 ratio (x
2-test, P<0.05). The condition index for male, female and combined sex was 13.54, 13.97 and 13.74, respectively. The results of this study will provide baseline information for fisheries researchers and for the further assessment and management of mussels in the freshwater ecosystems of Bangladesh.
Effects of Tank Background Colour on Growth Performance and Feed Utilization of African Catfish Clarias Gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) Fingerlings
Authors: Okomoda Victor Tosin , Tiamiyu Lateef Oloyede , Wase Gabriel
Published: December 2017

The performance of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) fingerlings reared in white, green, blue, black and red coloured tanks was investigated. Each colour was tested in triplicate 1 m3 tanks with an initial stocking density of 100 fingerlings per tank (1.07 g). Fish were fed a commercial diet at 5% body weight per day for eight weeks. Fish weights were sampled every 2 weeks to adjust feeding rates. Tank colour had a significant effect (P < 0.05) on the overall performance of the fingerlings. Rearing in black tanks resulted in a higher daily feed intake (0.44 g) and better growth performance when compared to other tank colours, while the poorest performance was observed in blue and green tanks. Carcass protein and fat content at 8 weeks revealed a trend similar to that observed for growth. Also, serum glucose tests showed higher levels in light background tanks and were thought to be an indication of stress. Survival was not affected by tank colour. It was concluded that dark-coloured tanks such as black or red were better in comparison to light-coloured tanks for the rearing of African catfish fingerlings
A Review of Aquaculture Research in Croatia Published in the Croatian Journal of Fisheries Since 1938
Authors: Zanić Mate , Tomljanović Tea , Matulić Daniel
Published: December 2017

51 articles published in the Croatian Journal of Fisheries from 1938 until 2016, covering aquaculture research in Croatia, have been included in this study. Published articles have been classified into seven groups based on their main topics. Topics include: aquaculture statistics in Croatia; disease and health care; farming technology; management, economics and environmental protection; fish nutrition and product quality; improving aquaculture; and species biology and ecology. The study concisely informs about aquaculture research in Croatia since 1938. Due to large contribution to the research, development and quality management of Croatian aquaculture, further promotion and development of Croatian Journal of Fisheries is required.
Design of Dual Band Dual Sense Circularly Polarized Wide Slot Antenna with C-shaped Radiator for Wireless Applications
Authors: Patil Shilpee , Singh A. K. , Kanaujia Binod K. , Yadava R. L.
Published: December 2017

A low profile wide slot antenna for dual band and dual sense circular polarization (CP) is proposed here and is simulated by using HFSS simulation software.The proposed antenna having a C shaped patch for dual band operation and a wide square slot etched on the ground with two strips for CP operation. In between radiating patch and ground plane, designed antenna has a layer of easily available dielectric (FR-4) material. Proposed antenna shows an impedance bandwidth of 13.8 % at 2.38 GHz of centre frequency and 9.7 % at 4.43 GHz of centre frequency for lower and upper band respectively. The 3-dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidths for lower and upper band are 18.8 % (at 2.44 GHz of centre frequency) and 13.3 % (at 4.29 GHz of centre frequency), respectively. The peak gain for the lower and upper band is found as 4.1 dBi and 3.3 dBi, respectively. A close agreement has been found between the simulated and the measured results.
Einleitungen interdisziplinär vergleichen
Authors: Szurawitzki Michael
Published: December 2017

The present paper presents the findings of a study comparing the formulations of introductions of academic articles across disciplines. A multidisciplinary corpus of 20 articles from linguistics, medicine, the natural sciences, economics, and sociology is examined. The analysis comprises two general steps, the first being macro-, the second being microstructural. Macrostructurally, the explicit formulations of the moves conducted in the introductions are singled out. These formulations are in turn examined microstructurally in regard to syntax (typology), verbs (valency, grammar-semantics interface, pragmatics) and lexicology (text commentary, lexical deixis, modal expressions). The results are evaluated against the backdrop of possible underlying stylistic patterns of formulation. Subsequently, suggestions for the feasibility of the results within the teaching of German as a (foreign) academic language are made.
The effect of NaOH on the direct calcification–carbonation method for processing of Bayer process red mud
Authors: Xie Liqun , Zhang Tingan , Lv Guozhi , Yang Jinlin , Wang Yanxiu
Published: December 2017

The Bayer red mud generated from the alumina industry is a hazardous solid waste. In our team, a green calcification–carbonation process is proposed for its disposal. Red mud is treated with lime to convert the silicon phase in solution into hydrogarnet, which is then decomposed by CO2to recover alumina. In order to simplify the process flow, the direct carbonation process is employed, in which the NaOH-containing solution resulting from calcification is sent directly to carbonation without prior liquid–solid separation. The discrete and direct carbonation processes gave 34.9% and 35.5% alumina recoveries, respectively, with Na2O contents in the final red muds of 0.15%wt and 0.21%wt, respectively. The optimum NaOH concentration in the whole calcification–carbonation process liquor was 40 g/l. Under this alkali condition, alumina recovery reached 40.5% and the Na2O content in the processed red mud was reduced to <1 %wt.
How to Stay Ahead of the Pack: Optimal Road Cycling Strategies for two Cooperating Riders
Authors: Wolf S. , Saupe D.
Published: December 2017

Within road-cycling, the optimization of performance using mathematical models has primarily been performed in the individual time trial. Nevertheless, most races are 'mass-start' events in which many riders compete at the same time. In some special situations, e.g. breakaways from the peloton, the riders are forced to team up. To simulate those cooperative rides of two athletes, an extension of models and optimization approaches for individual time trials is presented. A slipstream model based on experimental data is provided to simulate the physical interaction between the two riders. In order to simulate real world behavior, a penalty for the difference in the exertion levels of the two riders is introduced. This means, that even though both riders aim to be as fast as possible as a group, neither of them should have an advantage over the other because of significantly different levels of fatigue during the ride. In our simulations, the advantage of cooperation of two equally trained athletes adds up to a time gain of about 10% compared to an individual ride.
Performance Estimation using the Fitness-Fatigue Model with Kalman Filter Feedback
Authors: Kolossa D. , Bin Azhar M.A. , Rasche C. , Endler S. , Hanakam F. , Ferrauti A. , Pfeiffer M.
Published: December 2017

Tracking and predicting the performance of athletes is of great interest, not only in training science but also, increasingly, for serious hobbyists. The increasing availability and use of smart watches and fitness trackers means that abundant data is becoming available, and the interest to optimally use this data for performance tracking and training optimization is great. One competitive model in this domain is the 3-time-constant fitness-fatigue model by Busso based on the model by Banister and colleagues. In the following, we will show that this model can be written equivalently as a linear, time-variant state-space model. With this understanding, it becomes clear that all methods for optimum tracking in statespace models are also directly applicable here. As an example, we show how a Kalman filter can be combined with the fitness-fatigue model in a mathematically consistent fashion. This gives us the opportunity to optimally consider measurements of performance to adapt the fitness and fatigue estimates in a datadriven manner. Results show that this approach is capable of clearly improving performance tracking and prediction over a range of different scenarios.
Multimodal metaphors as cognitive pivots for the construction of cultural otherness in talk
Authors: Schröder Ulrike
Published: December 2017

When people experience and talk about cultural alterity, they normally refer to polar scales, such as “individual/collective orientation patterns” or “direct/indirect ways of speaking” etc. The project of the research group
Conceptualizing politeness in Japanese and Greek
Authors: Fukushima Saeko , Sifianou Maria
Published: December 2017

The main aim of this paper is to investigate how Japanese and Greek female students conceptualize politeness and then compare the findings in order to tease out any cross-cultural similarities and differences. The data is drawn from a questionnaire filled in by two hundred female undergraduates (one hundred from each group). The results show that there are significant similarities as well as some differences. Although research on im/politeness has concentrated almost exclusively on linguistic performance, a significant similarity between the two groups is that politeness is conceptualized as primarily non-linguistic action. Another major similarity is that both groups conceptualize politeness mainly as “consideration to others” and “appropriate behavior,” the former expressed mostly non-linguistically and the latter involving both linguistic and non-linguistic manifestations. Most participants view politeness as conveyed through attentiveness/helping others, respect and empathy. Differences were located mostly in the numbers of participants who mentioned the various subcategories. For example, more Greek participants related a broad sense of “respect” to politeness, whereas more Japanese participants related it to “empathy” and only Japanese participants mentioned “honorifics.” Our participants’ understandings of politeness appear to be in contrast to earlier politeness theories which view politeness as strategic concern for conflict avoidance and closer to current approaches which view it as relational, expressing concern for the needs and feelings of others.
Conversational presuppositions: Presupposition as defeasible inference
Authors: Capone Alessandro
Published: December 2017

In this paper, I will try to support the admittedly controversial claim that presuppositions are normally defeasible inferences, taking the lead from Levinson, Stephen C. 1983.
Ritualizing the Use of Coins in Ancient Greek Sanctuaries
Authors: Lykke Anne
Published: December 2017

The article explores aspects of the monetization of the Greek sanctuaries, more specifically how space was created to accommodate coins as objects and their use within the sacred sphere. Except in a limited number of cases, our understanding is still quite fragmented. Where most research has focused on analyzing the coin material or the epigraphic evidence, the intention here is to look more widely at the archaeological evidence connected with coins and coin-related material. This is done in an attempt to appreciate the significance of the progressing monetization and ritualization of the use of coins and in extension to develop an understanding of the possible changes in human behavior in the sanctuaries based on this evidence.
The Identification of Up- and Downstream Industries using Input–Output Tables and a Firm-level Application to Minority Shareholdings
Authors: Bodnar Olivia A. , Buchwald Achim , Weche John P.
Published: December 2017

We present a method for identifying up- and downstream industries in inter-industry datasets via input–output tables. We apply this approach to aggregated European input–output data and present results on identified industry links and their sensitivity to threshold definitions. We furthermore test the time-consistency of the up- and downstream assignments based on input–output tables, and discuss the limitations of this method. Finally, the method is used to test anti-competitive effects of non-controlling minority shareholdings.
How to Make “Colored” Japanese Counter-Reformation Saints – A Study of an Iconographic Anomaly
Authors: Rappo Hitomi Omata
Published: December 2017

The 1627 beatification of the twenty-six martyrs of Japan was a major milestone in the history of the Church and especially for the missionary orders. These martyrs were the first officially recognized saints from the newly “discovered” lands. However, while the majority of the twenty-six were in fact Japanese, surviving paintings depict them as white-skinned missionaries and without any physical features that would have been considered “typically Asian” at the time. This paper analyzes this iconographic tradition and shows how it can be understood as a consequence of a process of assimilation of Christian Japan into the Catholic world view. Associating particular skin color with true faith and civilization was part of discourses that blended the physical “otherness” of these martyrs. This paper demonstrates how these discourses point to the first seeds of a racial perception of East Asians, which would later become the notion of “yellow.”
The Morpho-Functional Parameters of Rat Pituitary Hormone Producing Cells After Genistein Treatment
Authors: Trifunović Svetlana , Milošević Verica
Published: December 2017

Phytoestrogens are a diverse group of steroid–like compounds that occur naturally in many plants. There are various types of phytoestrogens, including the best-researched isoflavones which are commonly found in soy. The consumption of soy products has many health benefits, including protection against breast cancer, prostate cancer, menopausal symptoms, heart disease and osteoporosis. In contrast, use of hormonally active compounds-isoflavones may unfortunately interfere with the endocrine system and can have far-reaching consequences. Genistein, the most abundant soy-bean derived isoflavone, possesses a ring system similar to estrogens and acts through an estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated mechanism, by increasing or decreasing the transcription of ER-dependent target genes. Also, genistein can act on cells through ER non-dependent mechanisms, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The neuroendocrine systems are responsible for the control of homeostatic processes in the body, including reproduction, growth, metabolism and energy balance, and stress responsiveness. It is well known, that estrogen is important for development of the neuroendocrine system in both sexes. At the pituitary level, estrogen is known to affect the regulation of all hormone producing (HP) cells, by direct and/or indirect mechanisms. Due to structural and functional resemblance to estrogen, the question may arise of whether and how genistein affects the morphofunctional features of pituitary HP cells. This review deals with the consequences of genistein’s effects on morphological, stereological and hormonal features of HP cells within the anterior pituitary gland. Transparency on this issue is needed because isoflavones are presently highly consumed. Inter alia, genistein as well as other isoflavones, are present in various dietary supplements and generally promoted as an accepted alternative to estrogen replacement therapy. Potential isoflavone biomedical exploitation is not only limited to estrogen replacement therapy, so it should be treated in a wider context of different ageing symptoms remediation.
Evaluation of the convolution sums ∑al+bm=n lσ(l) σ(m) with ab ≤ 9
Authors: Park Yoon Kyung
Published: December 2017

The generating functions of divisor functions are quasimodular forms of weight 2 and their products belong to a space of quasimodular forms of higher weight. In this article, we evaluate the convolution sums

$$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle\sum\limits_{al+bm=n}\,l\sigma(l)\sigma(m)
\end{array} $$

for all positive integers a, b and n with ab ≤ 9 and gcd(a, b) = 1.
Insulin Resistance in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Todorovska Beti , Caloska-Ivanova Viktorija , Dimitrova-Genadieva Magdalena , Curakova Elena , Joksimovic Nenad
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Insulin resistance is the most common extrahepatic manifestation associated with hepatitis C virus, which leads to developing more pronounced fibrosis and liver steatosis. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of insulin resistance in non-diabetic, treatment naive patients with chronic hepatitis C and to analyze the relation of insulin resistance with genotype, viral load, gender, age, laboratory parameters, inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the liver, body mass index (BMI) and the presence of steatosis. Methods. In this cross sectional study, 224 patients with hepatitis C viral infection were included. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group was with no insulin resistance and the second one with present insulin resistance. They were compared in terms of genotype, viral load, gender, age, inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the liver, BMI and liver steatosis. Results. Insulin resistance was present in 45.5% of patients. The following factors were associated with insulin resistance: age (p=0.0022), inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the liver (p=0.001, p=0.006, respectively), steatosis (p=0.015) and transaminase activities (for AST, p=0,002, for ALT, p=0.001). Conclusion. In the Republic of Macedonia, a high percent of 45.5% among non-diabetic and treatment naïve patients with chronic viral hepatitis C, had insulin resistance. Insulin resistance was more prevalent in older patients, in those with more pronounced inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the liver, in patients with steatosis and in those with higher transaminase activity.
Analysis of Properties of an Active Linear Gesture Sensor
Authors: Czuszyński Krzysztof , Rumiński Jacek , Wtorek Jerzy
Published: December 2017

Basic gesture sensors can play a significant role as input units in mobile smart devices. However, they have to handle a wide variety of gestures while preserving the advantages of basic sensors. In this paper a user-determined approach to the design of a sparse optical gesture sensor is proposed. The statistical research on a study group of individuals includes the measurement of user-related parameters like the speed of a performed swipe (dynamic gesture) and the morphology of fingers. The obtained results, as well as other a priori requirements for an optical gesture sensor were further used in the design process. Several properties were examined using simulations or experimental verification. It was shown that the designed optical gesture sensor provides accurate localization of fingers, and recognizes a set of static and dynamic hand gestures using a relatively low level of power consumption.
Analysis of Free-Space Optics Development
Authors: Mikołajczyk Janusz , Bielecki Zbigniew , Bugajski Maciej , Piotrowski Józef , Wojtas Jacek , Gawron Waldemar , Szabra Dariusz , Prokopiuk Artur
Published: December 2017

The article presents state of work in technology of free-space optical communications (Free Space Optics − FSO). Both commercially available optical data links and their further development are described. The main elements and operation limiting factors of FSO systems have been identified. Additionally, analyses of FSO/RF hybrid systems application are included. The main aspects of LasBITer project related to such hybrid technology for security and defence applications are presented.
Nanostructures induced light harvesting enhancement in organic photovoltaics
Authors: Bi Yan-Gang , Feng Jing , Ji Jin-Hai , Yi Fang-Shun , Li Yun-Fei , Liu Yue-Feng , Zhang Xu-Lin , Sun Hong-Bo
Published: December 2017

Lightweight and low-cost organic photovoltaics (OPVs) hold great promise as renewable energy sources. The most critical challenge in developing high-performance OPVs is the incomplete photon absorption due to the low diffusion length of the carrier in organic semiconductors. To date, various attempts have been carried out to improve light absorption in thin photoactive layer based on optical engineering strategies. Nanostructure-induced light harvesting in OPVs offers an attractive solution to realize high-performance OPVs, via the effects of antireflection, plasmonic scattering, surface plasmon polarization, localized surface plasmon resonance and optical cavity. In this review article, we summarize recent advances in nanostructure-induced light harvesting in OPVs and discuss various light-trapping strategies by incorporating nanostructures in OPVs and the fabrication processing of the micro-patterns with high resolution, large area, high yield and low cost.
Legislators’ Need for Civil Society Expertise: Tunisian Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Opportunity
Authors: Abdel-Samad Mounah
Published: December 2017

The primacy of the Tunisian revolution and the country’s successful democratic transition (Stepan 2012, “Tunisia’s Transition and the Twin Tolerations.”Journal of Democracy23:89–103) make Tunisia an exemplar for analyzing legislators’ demand for advocacy by civil society organizations or CSOs. Several researchers (Cavatorta 2012, “Arab Spring: The Awakening of Civil Society. A General Overview.”http://www.iemed.org/observatori-es/arees-danalisi/arxius-adjunts/anuari/med.2012/Cavatorta_en.pdf, Benoit 2011, “The Counter-Power of Civil Society and the Emergence of a New Political Imaginary in the Arab World.”Constellations: an International Journal of Critical and Democratic Theory18:271–283. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8675.2011.00650.x, Kubba 2000, “Arabs and Democracy: The Awakening of Civil Society.”Journal of Democracy11:84–90) have explored the role of Tunisian civil society in the democratic transition; however, no study examined legislators’ demand for CSOs’ legislative advocacy in Tunisia. By exploring factors influencing legislators and their demand and need for legislative advocacy, this study sheds light on the inner works of policy makers and ways to influence them. This study finds that, contrary to the idea that governments in developing countries do not want civil society participation in politics, Tunisian legislators are open to and eager for legislative advocacy. Based on 40 survey conducted face to face with Tunisian legislators in the National Constituent Assembly, and archival analysis of the National Constituents Assembly sessions’ minutes from 2011 until 2014, this study finds that Tunisian legislators have a high level of trust in CSOs, want their expertise, and are influenced by them when voting in parliament. These results have several potential impacts on understanding of the relationship between CSOs and government and more specifically legislature.
The Analysis of Drive Systems in Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Towards Identifying the Method of Drive Transmission
Authors: Jakus Bartłomiej , Olejnik Adam
Published: December 2017

This is the first part of the material concerned with the analysis of drive systems in remotely controlled unmanned underwater vehicles. The paper discusses the problem of classification of UUVs, mainly remotely controlled, with an indication of four different approaches to this issue. Moreover, the article discusses the nomenclature used in relation to various components of the discussed drive systems and thrusters, as well as indicates the functionality of such systems along with the advantages and disadvantages of the analysed design solutions. The method of analysis of drive systems, its methodology and the results will be the subject of a subsequent publication of the authors.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a Therapeutic Option for Patients with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) – Own Experiences and Literature Review
Authors: Olszański Romuald , Konarski Maciej , Siermontowski Piotr
Published: December 2017

The paper discusses the treatment results of ten patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD) who did not respond to standard pharmacotherapy and underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Each patient was subject to 10 oxygen exposures at pO22.5 ATA (~ 250 kPa) with the duration time of 60 minutes. In the period of implementation of the hyperbaric procedures the general treatment plan was suspended for all patients while maintaining typical local treatment. Clinical evaluation was performed in the study group as well as determination of levels of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE and C3 and C4 complement. All patients indicated clinical improvement and a decreased IgE immunoglobulin and complement C3 level upon the completion of the exposure cycle. Taking into account the authors’ own observations and data from literature, an overall improvement in the clinical status and a decrease in the level of immunoglobulin E and C3 complement following a cycle of exposures may be indicative of an immunomodulating HBOT effect on AD, whereas hyperbaric oxygenation may constitute a therapeutic option for some patients with AD, especially those exhibiting a poor response to standard treatment.
Multi-Agent Responsibility for a Tragic Accident in Water
Authors: Wiesner Wojciech
Published: December 2017

In relation to EU countries, the level of safety on Polish waters is still low. The drowning rate in our country is two times higher. Since 2013, there has even been an increase in the number of drownings. Typically, following each incident, attention is focused on the quality of work of the rescue services, however, there are multiple factors to be considered when seeking where responsibility for this state of affairs actually lies. In contemplations, the main subjects of analysis were external threats (atmospheric conditions, legal conditions, trends in water recreation) and threats generated by various groups of waterrelated subjects (administrators, service providers, rescuers, cleaning and medical services, participants enjoying recreation on or in the water). The purpose of this article is to present the issues of water safety from the perspective of the responsibility of various subjects, which are active in this environment. The attractiveness of recreation in or on water results largely from the emotions caused by increased risk. Often the greater the danger, the greater the attraction. At the same time, it is accompanied by an increased sense of security, excessive self-confidence and excessive trust, which weakens the natural defense mechanism. Hence, so many accidents in the water are caused by the victims themselves. In the article we are looking for an answer to the question about the reasons for such a phenomenon.
Inklusive Bildung und die Gesundheit von behinderten Kindern
Authors: Flieger Petra
Published: December 2017

Die schulische Inklusion von Kindern mit Behinderungen wird öffentlich viel diskutiert, dabei ruft vor allem die Forderung nach der Überwindung segregierender Schulsysteme Widerstand hervor. Der Zusammenhang zwischen schulischer Inklusion und dem Gesundheitszustand von behinderten Kindern ist im deutschen Sprachraum bislang nicht diskutiert worden. Die Ergebnisse einer Studie aus Kanada können die Auseinandersetzung mit diesem Thema anregen.
Inklusion in der Schule – die Perspektive von Eltern und Schüler/-innen
Authors: Veber Marcel , Weidermann Anne
Published: December 2017

Zahlreiche Erfahrungsberichte von Lehrern und Lehrerinnen und Eltern, Zeitungsartikel über Vor- und Nachteile und wissenschaftliche Abhandlungen zum Thema Inklusion in der Schule verdeutlichen die Aktualität des Themas Empirische Untersuchungen zur Perspektive von Eltern und Schüler/-innen. Auf dieses Thema lassen sich jedoch bisher nur vereinzelt verzeichnen. Im folgenden Beitrag werden einige ausgewählte Ergebnisse aus Studien zu Einstellungen von Eltern und Schüler/-innen vorgestellt, die einen ersten Einblick in die Auseinandersetzung der schulischen Akteur/-innen mit dem gemeinsamen Lernen von Schüler/-innen mit und ohne sonderpädagogischen Unterstützungsbedarf ermöglichen soll.
Methoden zur Befragung von Menschen mit geistiger Behinderung
Authors: Moisl Dominique
Published: December 2017

Die Validität empirischer Befragungen von Menschen mit geistiger Behinderung wird in der Literatur kontrovers diskutiert. Die Untersuchungsergebnisse zeigen, dass zur Erfassung der Bedürfnis- und Interessenstrukturen andere Verfahren verwendet werden sollten, die methodisch und inhaltlich an der subjektiven Lebenswelt ansetzen.