bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governing Multilateral Alliances
Authors: Doz Yves L.
Published: May 2019

The governance of multilateral alliances is an increasingly important strategic option as firms face discontinuities and disruptions. But not all multilateral alliances present the same governance and leadership challenges. The partners’ co-specialized contributions to the alliance call for more creative overall alliance management and for more open-ended forms of collaboration. Governance options range from a very autocratic “hub-and-spoke” model to democratic and participative governance. This puts different demands on the approach and the leadership skills required from the alliance managers.
Abandoning Medical Authority: When Medical Professionals Confront Stigmatized Adolescent Sex and the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
Authors: Fenton Anny T.
Published: May 2019

Despite authority’s centrality to the medical profession, providers routinely forgo their medical authority during clinical encounters. Research focuses on patients challenging medical authority but indicates these confrontations are uncommon and providers seldom relinquish their authority in response. Using rare data of 75 audio recordings of adolescent vaccine discussions during clinical encounters and interviews with and observations of medical staff, I examine how staff leverage or abandon their medical authority to convince parents to vaccinate. I find medical professionals use less authority when at risk of stigmatizing patients: Medical professionals are less authoritative when recommending human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination versus other adolescent vaccines, particularly when addressing the need to vaccinate before sexual onset due to concerns of labeling the child as sexually active. Medical staff defer to parents in ways that potentially discourage HPV vaccine uptake: They encourage HPV vaccination less than other vaccines and infrequently challenge parents’ sex-related reasons for vaccine refusal.
Machiavelli and the virtues of pessimism
Authors: Hassanzadeh Navid
Published: May 2019

In recent realist theory and more broadly, pessimism has tended to be treated as a problem or a liability for thought, limiting aspirations for political change and leading towards conservatism. In this article, I turn to Niccolò Machiavelli as a resource through which to theorize differently about the idea. I argue that pessimism in Machiavelli’s work can be associated with an effort to look candidly upon political affairs and to express scepticism towards complacency in thought and conduct. Such an approach, rather than tending towards despair or cynicism, can be seen to make different dimensions of history and politics visible and to open up different paths of judgment and decision-making as a result. Rather than constraining thought and action, pessimism in Machiavelli’s thinking can therefore reveal novel possibilities for political conduct.
Evaluation of Region of Interest Digital Cytology Compared to Light Microscopy for Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Blanchet Conor J. K. , Fish Eric J. , Miller Amy G. , Snyder Laura A. , Labadie Julia D. , Avery Paul R.
Published: May 2019

Digital microscopy (DM) has been employed for primary diagnosis in human medicine and for research and teaching applications in veterinary medicine, but there are few veterinary DM validation studies. Region of interest (ROI) digital cytology is a subset of DM that uses image-stitching software to create a low-magnification image of a slide, then selected ROI at higher magnification, and stitches the images into a relatively small file of the embedded magnifications. This study evaluated the concordance of ROI-DM compared to traditional light microscopy (LM) between 2 blinded clinical pathologists. Sixty canine and feline cytology samples from a variety of anatomic sites, including 31 cases of malignant neoplasia, 15 cases of hyperplastic or benign neoplastic lesions, and 14 infectious/inflammatory lesions, were evaluated. Two separate nonblinded adjudicating clinical pathologists evaluated the reports and diagnoses and scored each paired case as fully concordant, partially concordant, or discordant. The average overall concordance (full and partial concordance) for both pathologists was 92%. Full concordance was significantly higher for malignant lesions than benign. For the 40 neoplastic lesions, ROI-DM and LM agreed on general category of tumor type in 78 of 80 cases (98%). ROI-DM cytology showed robust concordance with the current gold standard of LM cytology and is potentially a viable alternative to current LM cytology techniques.
Multiple stones in neobladder: Case report and literature review
Authors: Tafuri Alessandro , Porcaro Antonio B , Ashrafi Akbar N , Cerruto Maria Angela , Amigoni Nelia , Mariotto Arianna , Sebben Marco , Marcer Anna , Bassi Silvia , Medina Luis G , Cacciamani Giovanni E , Baccaglini Willy , Winter Matthew , Verratti Vittore , Monaco Carmelo , Migliorini Filippo , Siracusano Salvatore , Artibani Walter
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

Neobladder urolithiasis is a rare but important long-term complication of orthotopic urinary diversion. It may be asymptomatic and can be discovered as an incidental finding on a radiological investigation. However, when symptoms occur, they may include lower abdominal pain, dysuria, hematuria, and lower urinary tract symptoms.

Case description:

We report the case of a 63-year-old male patient with irritative lower urinary tract symptoms, lower abdominal fullness, urinary incontinence, fecaluria, and urinary loss from the left inguinal fold 12 years after a radical cystoprostatectomy with a orthotopic neobladder. Computed tomography scan and urethrocystography showed a distended pouch with multiple large stones, an enterovesical fistula, and neovesicocutaneous fistula. The fistulae were successfully managed conservatively with the placement of a Foley catheter. After 3 months, open cystolithotomy was performed and approximately 50 stones with dimensions varying from 5 mm to 5 cm, with a total weight of 890 g, were removed. After a 1-year follow-up, the patient did not report pain, urinary tract infections, or symptoms suggestive of fistula and imaging evaluation confirmed no recurrence of neobladder stones.

Conclusion:

Neobladder stones may present with various symptoms. Our patient had irritative lower urinary tract symptoms, lower abdominal fullness, urinary incontinence, fecaluria, and urinary loss from the left inguinal fold 12 years after a radical cystoprostatectomy with a orthotopic neobladder. Our experience demonstrates that open cystolithotomy is an effective intervention for the removal of large stones in neobladder.
Do Men Favor Men in Recruitment? A Field Experiment in the Swedish Labor Market
Authors: Erlandsson Anni
Published: May 2019

Utilizing a field experiment design, this article examines whether discrimination based on any combination of job applicant gender and recruiter gender occurs in the first stage of the recruitment process, that is, selecting applicants to be contacted. This study includes 1,643 job applications in the Swedish labor market. Overall, based on the callbacks received, male recruiters, unlike female recruiters, are found to contact male applicants more often than female applicants. The results show a pro-male bias by male recruiters in gender-mixed occupations, whereas no significant gender differences in callbacks by recruiter gender are found in male- and female-dominated occupations.
Effect of serum albumin level on hospital outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Yoon Hanna , Song Kyoung Jun , Shin Sang Do , Ro Young Sun , Hong Ki Jeong , Park Jeong Ho
Published: May 2019

Background:

Background: Serum albumin has been known as a strong predictive value of mortality in various disease conditions, severe burns, major surgeries, stroke, myocardial infarction, etc. But little is known for the effect of serum albumin level on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients.

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of serum albumin level on the outcome of out of hospital cardiac arrest.

Methods:

This study was a prospective hospital-based patient cohort study, conducted during January to December 2014 at 27 emergency departments in Cardiac Arrest Pursuit Trial with Unique Registration and Epidemiologic Surveillance project. The albumin was measured immediately after arrival to the emergency department during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and albumin was categorized into two groups, group < 3.5 g/dL group and ⩾ 3.5 g/dL group. The primary outcome was a good neurological recovery at discharge (cerebral performance category scale 1 or 2). Multivariable logistic regression was used for adjusting for confounders.

Results:

During the study period, 1616 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients with presumed cardiac etiology were enrolled, and the total of 1013 patients were analyzed in this study. A total 452 (44.6%) patients had serum albumin level less than 3.5 g/dL. The serum albumin ⩾ 3.5 g/dL group showed better neurological outcomes than the serum albumin < 3.5 g/dL group: 18.5% versus 4.0%, and ⩾ 3.5 g/dL group had higher survival discharge rates than the < 3.5 g/dL group: 23.9% versus 9.1% (p < 0.01). After adjusting for potential covariates, patients with serum albumin ⩾ 3.5 g/dL had a higher odds of good neurological recovery (adjusted odds ratio: 2.94 (95% confidence interval: [1.57, 5.49])), and higher survival to discharge (adjusted odds ratio: 1.74 (95% confidence interval: [1.10, 2.76])).

Conclusion:

Low serum albumin levels are associated with a worse neurologic outcome in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Prenatal Exposure to Cadmium During Organogenesis Impairs Memory in Young Rats
Authors: Gumilar Fernanda , Bras Cristina , Aggio Patricia , Domínguez Sergio , Bartos Mariana , Gallegos Cristina , Mónaco Nina , Minetti Alejandra
Published: May 2019

Pregnant rats were treated with 0.3 and 0.6 mg cadmium (CdCl2)/kg injected subcutaneously on a daily basis from gestational day 7 to day 15 (organogenesis period). One control group was not injected and other received saline. The 45-day-old offspring were tested in a step-down inhibitory avoidance to evaluate short-term and long-term memory and in a radial maze for the study of spatial memory. These studies showed that gestational exposure to 0.6 mg Cd/kg produced in the male offspring a significant impairment in the retention of long-term memory evaluated 24 hours after training in the step-down inhibitory avoidance. The radial maze also demonstrated that the male offspring prenatally exposed to 0.6 mg Cd presented a significant deficit in the retention of spatial memory evaluated 42 days after training. These results demonstrate that the exposure to Cd during organogenesis may affect the retention of some types of memory.
Increasing autism acceptance: The impact of the Sesame Street “See Amazing in All Children” initiative
Authors: Anthony Bruno J , Robertson Hillary A , Verbalis Alyssa , Myrick Yetta , Troxel Mary , Seese Sydney , Anthony Laura Gutermuth
Published: May 2019

To promote knowledge and acceptance of autism, Sesame Workshop created an online initiative: See Amazing in All Children. This nationwide evaluation of See Amazing assessed whether it increased knowledge and acceptance, promoted community inclusion, reduced parenting strain, and enhanced parenting competence. Survey responses were collected online from parents of children (age ⩽ 6) with and without autism before (N = 1010), 1 week after (N = 510), and, for parents of autistic children, 1 month after (N = 182) they viewed the See Amazing materials. Following exposure, parents of non-autistic children showed small but significant increases in knowledge of autism and, like parents of autistic children, greater acceptance of autistic children. Parents of autistic children reported less strain, increased parenting competence, and more hope about involving their child in their community. That the See Amazing materials invoked positive changes in the general parent community and in parents of autistic children suggests that See Amazing materials have the potential to be an effective resource to increase acceptance and community inclusion, although limitations of self-selection, dropout rate, and lack of control group constrain interpretation. Implications include support for targeting acceptance as a step beyond awareness campaigns, though actual behavior change is a subject for future research.
Experimental study on composite mechanical properties of a double-deck prestressed concrete box girder
Authors: Zhu Mingqiao , Yan Zefeng , Chen Lin , Lu Zhongliang , Chen Y Frank
Published: May 2019

A series of tests were carried out on a scaled (1:8) double-deck prestressed concrete box girder in this study, aiming to study the structural response and failure mechanism of the box girder under prestressed axial compression, transverse bending, and torsion. The test results, such as the twist angle, crack development, and distortion of the box girder, were analyzed in detail. The results show that (1) the box girder eventually suffered lateral bending damage, and the cross-section of the support distorted severely; (2) torsional cracking occurred in the pure torsion region at the mid-span, but the longitudinal and transverse rebars did not yield, indicating that the pure torsion section of the box girder was still in the early stage of torsion failure; and (3) after the cracking of the box girder, stress redistribution phenomenon occurred, resulting in obvious nonlinear strain variations. Comparison of the longitudinal and transverse steel strains showed that transverse steel withstood the most shear stress during the early stage of torsion.
Tracking main environmental factors masking a minor steroidal doping effect using metabolomic analysis of horse urine by liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Stojiljkovic Natali , Leroux Fanny , Bubanj Saša , Popot Marie-Agnès , Paris Alain , Tabet Jean-Claude , Junot Christophe
Published: May 2019

There is an urgent need to implement holistic and untargeted doping control protocols with improved discriminatory power, compared to conventional methods that only target doping agents. Metabolomics, which aims to characterize all metabolites present in biological matrices, could fulfill this need. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of environmental factors on the ability to obtain a metabolic signature of stanozolol administration in horse doping situation. Urine samples from 16 horses breeded in two different places were collected over a one-year period, before, during and seven months after the administration of stanozolol, a horse doping agent. Metabolomic analysis was performed using ultra-high pressure reverse phase liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MS). Results showed a major impact of the nutritional regimen, drug administration (for de-worming purpose) and breeding place on the metabolite profiles of horse urines, which hampered the detection of metabolic perturbations induced by stanozolol administration. After having used MS/MS experiments to characterize some MS features related to these environmental factors, we showed that highlighting and then removing the features impacted by these confounding factors before performing supervised multivariate statistical analyses could address this issue. In conclusion, adequate consideration should be given to environmental and physiological factors; otherwise, they can emerge as confounding factors and conceal doping administration.
The management of hirsutism
Authors: Hardway Michael , Younas Kinza
Published: May 2019

Many women present in general practice with the complaint of excessive hair growth on the face, chest or limbs. This article aims to cover the normal physiology of hair growth, how to define excessive hair growth in a woman, and when it is essential to refer a patient for urgent secondary care advice and further management.
Ratio of carcinoembryonic antigen in pleural fluid and serum for the diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Hackner Klaus , Errhalt Peter , Handzhiev Sabin
Published: May 2019

Background:

Tumour markers in pleural fluid and their diagnostic value are subject to debate. Although there are several studies on this topic, standardized cut-off values do not exist. In this study we investigated the potential of a ratio of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in pleural fluid and serum, serving as an individual marker for pleural cancer manifestation.

Methods:

A total of 201 consecutive patients with unclear pleural effusion were included in the study; 98 were diagnosed with malignant pleural effusion and 103 had an effusion due to other, benign reasons. CEA levels in pleural fluid and serum were measured.

Results:

By using receiver operating characteristics analysis, at the cut-off of 1.0, the CEA ratio showed a specificity of 92% and sensitivity of 85%, with a positive predictive value of 91% and a negative predictive value of 87%. These results are higher than in previous investigations on different pleural tumour markers and their combination.

Conclusions:

The CEA ratio is a useful tool in predicting pleural carcinosis. Elevated results in cytology-negative patients should lead to further investigations, such as repeated cytological examination or thoracoscopy.
Use of Successive Pharmacologic Hormone Suppression Testing for a Severe Presentation of Adolescent Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Ravi Sonalee Jaya , Cree-Green Melanie
Published: May 2019

Background. Pathological causes of acne and hirsutism include polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and adrenal or ovarian tumors. PCOS is largely a clinical diagnosis and often simple laboratory testing can rule out more severe pathology. In more severe cases, determination of the correct diagnosis can require hormone suppression testing. In this article, we present a full sequence of hormone suppression testing and workup necessary to arrive at the ultimate diagnosis. Case Presentation. A 12-year-old normal weight (body mass index = 29th percentile), premenarchal female with Tanner III breast, Tanner V pubic hair presented with a 2.5-year history of severe hirsutism (Ferriman-Gallwey Score of 22), clitoromegaly, and deep voice. Successive hormone suppression and testing (ACTH stimulation testing, ovarian and adrenal imaging, dexamethasone-suppressed ACTH stimulation testing, and oral contraceptive therapy) was necessary to rule out congenital adrenal hyperplasia or a tumor and confirm PCOS. Metabolic testing, completed only after diagnosing PCOS, demonstrated insulin resistance. Conclusions. This patient had an extreme presentation of a common disorder. Her premenarchal status, elevated androgens, and virilization raised concern for non-PCOS pathology requiring sequential pharmacological hormone suppression testing and imaging for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The testing presented here is not novel, but we present the full sequence of testing and clinical results. This full sequence is rarely necessary for accurate diagnosis given clinical presentation and initial evaluation and, therefore, to our knowledge, has not been published. All providers caring for patients with PCOS should be familiar with this testing and its interpretation for severe cases that warrant extra attention.
A deficiency in SUMOylation activity disrupts multiple pathways leading to neural tube and heart defects in Xenopus embryos
Authors: Bertke Michelle M. , Dubiak Kyle M. , Cronin Laura , Zeng Erliang , Huber Paul W.
Published: May 2019

Background

Adenovirus protein, Gam1, triggers the proteolytic destruction of the E1 SUMO-activating enzyme. Microinjection of an empirically determined amount of Gam1 mRNA into one-cellXenopusembryos can reduce SUMOylation activity to undetectable, but nonlethal, levels, enabling an examination of the role of this post-translational modification during early vertebrate development.

Results

We find that SUMOylation-deficient embryos consistently exhibit defects in neural tube and heart development. We have measured differences in gene expression between control and embryos injected with Gam1 mRNA at three developmental stages: early gastrula (immediately following the initiation of zygotic transcription), late gastrula (completion of the formation of the three primary germ layers), and early neurula (appearance of the neural plate). Although changes in gene expression are widespread and can be linked to many biological processes, three pathways, non-canonical Wnt/PCP, snail/twist, and Ets-1, are especially sensitive to the loss of SUMOylation activity and can largely account for the predominant phenotypes of Gam1 embryos. SUMOylation appears to generate different pools of a given transcription factor having different specificities with this post-translational modification involved in the regulation of more complex, as opposed to housekeeping, processes.

Conclusions

We have identified changes in gene expression that underlie the neural tube and heart phenotypes resulting from depressed SUMOylation activity. Notably, these developmental defects correspond to the two most frequently occurring congenital birth defects in humans, strongly suggesting that perturbation of SUMOylation, either globally or of a specific protein, may frequently be the origin of these pathologies.
Reprogramming the Tumor Microenvironment to Improve Immunotherapy: Emerging Strategies and Combination Therapies
Authors: Datta Meenal , Coussens Lisa M. , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Hodi F. Stephen , Jain Rakesh K.
Published: May 2019

Emerging immunotherapeutic approaches have revolutionized the treatment of multiple malignancies. Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) have enabled never-before-seen success rates in durable tumor control and enhanced survival benefit in patients with advanced cancers. However, this effect is not universal, resulting in responder and nonresponder populations not only between, but also within solid tumor types. Although ICBs are thought to be most effective against tumors with more genetic mutations and higher antigen loads, this is not always the case for all cancers or for all patients within a cancer subtype. Furthermore, debilitating and sometimes deadly immune-related adverse events (irAEs) have resulted from aberrant activation of T-cell responses following immunotherapy. Thus, we must identify new ways to overcome resistance to ICB-based immunotherapies and limit irAEs. In fact, preclinical and clinical data have identified abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that can thwart the efficacy of immunotherapies such as ICBs. Here, we will discuss how reprogramming various facets of the TME (blood vessels, myeloid cells, and regulatory T cells [Tregs]) may overcome TME-instigated resistance mechanisms to immunotherapy. We will discuss clinical applications of this strategic approach, including the recent successful phase III trial combining bevacizumab with atezolizumab and chemotherapy for metastatic nonsquamous non–small cell lung cancer that led to rapid approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of this regimen for first-line treatment. Given the accelerated testing and approval of ICBs combined with various targeted therapies in larger numbers of patients with cancer, we will discuss how these concepts and approaches can be incorporated into clinical practice to improve immunotherapy outcomes.
Frontline Therapy for BRAF-Mutated Metastatic Melanoma: How Do You Choose, and Is There One Correct Answer?
Authors: Pavlick Anna C. , Fecher Leslie , Ascierto Paolo A. , Sullivan Ryan J.
Published: May 2019

Genetic analysis of melanoma has allowed us to identify a population of patients who have more aggressive disease and harbor the driver mutation BRAF. This mutation is found in approximately 50% of metastatic disease and provides a target for focused therapies to control this disease. These responses are usually brisk; however, they lack the durability of immunotherapy. Frontline therapy for patients with BRAF-mutated melanoma is not as straightforward as prescribing BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Prior trials of combination immunotherapy demonstrate similar responses and durability of responses in patients with BRAF wild-type as well as BRAF-mutated disease. Decisions about immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or the combination of immunotherapy with targeted therapy require an oncologist to evaluate multiple factors to select which treatment option is best for the patient. Trials for metastatic melanoma have included biomarkers as secondary endpoints and aim to identify some way to predict a response, or lack thereof, to therapy. Here, we discuss the utility and reliability of biomarkers in determining therapy for patients with BRAF-mutated metastatic melanoma and discuss combination immunotherapy with targeted therapy versus sequential immunotherapy/targeted therapy as well as which regimen should be implemented as initial therapy.
Hysterectomy-Corrected Uterine Corpus Cancer Incidence Trends and Differences in Relative Survival Reveal Racial Disparities and Rising Rates of Nonendometrioid Cancers
Authors: Clarke Megan A. , Devesa Susan S. , Harvey Summer V. , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: May 2019

PURPOSE

Uterine corpus cancer incidence rates have been projected to increase, a prediction often attributed to the obesity epidemic. However, correct estimation of these rates requires accounting for hysterectomy prevalence, which varies by race, ethnicity, and region. Here, we evaluated recent trends in hysterectomy-corrected rates by race and ethnicity and histologic subtype and estimated differences in relative survival by race and ethnicity, subtype, and stage.

METHODS

We estimated hysterectomy prevalence from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Hysterectomy-corrected age-standardized uterine corpus cancer incidence rates from 2000 to 2015 were calculated from the SEER 18 registries. Incidence rates and trends were estimated separately by race and ethnicity, region, and histologic subtype. Five-year relative survival rates were estimated by race and ethnicity, histologic subtype, and stage.

RESULTS

Hysterectomy-corrected incidence rates of uterine corpus cancer were similar among non-Hispanic whites and blacks and lower among Hispanics and Asians/Pacific Islanders. Endometrioid carcinoma rates were highest in non-Hispanic whites, whereas nonendometrioid carcinoma and sarcoma rates were highest in non-Hispanic blacks. Hysterectomy-corrected uterine corpus cancer incidence increased among non-Hispanic whites from 2003 to 2015 and among non-Hispanic blacks, Hispanics, and Asians/Pacific Islanders from 2000 to 2015. Overall incidence rates among non-Hispanic blacks surpassed those of non-Hispanic whites in 2007. Endometrioid carcinoma rates rose among non-Hispanic blacks, Hispanics, and Asians/Pacific Islanders but were stable among non-Hispanic whites; however, nonendometrioid carcinoma rates rose significantly among all women. Non-Hispanic blacks had the lowest survival rates, irrespective of stage at diagnosis or histologic subtype.

CONCLUSION

Among all women, rates of nonendometrioid subtypes have been rising rapidly. Our analysis shows profound racial differences and disparities indicated by higher rates of nonendometrioid subtypes and poorer survival among non-Hispanic black women.
A rare case of arteriovenous fistula formation in a patient with inferior vena cava thrombosis, successfully managed with endovascular recanalisation
Authors: Joshi Vanya , Sheehan Frances , Chapman Alexander
Published: May 2019

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are recommended for patients with proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who are not eligible for anticoagulation. Long-dwelling filters are well-known to be associated with the development of IVC thrombosis. Chronic caval occlusion can lead to a severe post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), with manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency in the lower extremities. Animal studies have shown that post-thrombotic inflammation can trigger the development of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF), however, there is limited evidence for this phenomenon in patients with PTS. We describe the case of a spontaneous AVF in a patient with long-standing IVC thrombosis. It was postulated that the AVF could be compounding the venous hypertension and severe swelling of his lower extremities. The case additionally demonstrates the successful results of endovascular recanalisation for an occluded filter in the presence of an AVF.
The Small Words of Film Spoken Language for Second Language Learning
Authors: GIAMPIERI PATRIZIA
Published: May 2019

Although being scripted, film dialogues are claimed to mirror natural spoken language. Exposing second language (L2) learners to instances of authentic language is reported to be stimulating and enjoyable. Amongst others, natural spoken discourse is hallmarked by discourse markers, which are small words, or prefabricated units, which constitute the bulk of native-like conversation. Helping students become acquainted with the small words of natural language can increase their perceived proficiency. In light of these argumentations, this paper is aimed at presenting a trial lesson with sixteen young adults who participated in a 2-hour class. During the class, they became acquainted with discourse markers, which were sourced from film dialogues. Students had firstly to infer their meanings and propose coherent translation candidates by recurring to their interlanguage. Then, they were prompted to search for translations in online language platforms. The paper findings highlight that the trial lesson was not only enjoyable and stimulating, but students felt that their L2 knowledge increased. Furthermore, they were stimulated by the inferring tasks and appreciated the word search. In some instances, students' inferences outperformed dictionary results and online suggestions.
Modelling the effects of climate change on shellfish production in marine artisanal fisheries of Ghana
Authors: Atindana Sandra Akugpoka , Ofori-Danson Patrick Kwabena , Brucet Sandra
Published: May 2019

Background: Ghana’s marine artisanal fisheries, particularly the small pelagic fisheries, are in a state of crisis. The decline in the number of small pelagic fish are attributable to overfishing, climate variability and unsustainable fishing methods. Similarly, in the wake of climate change, shellfishes (particularly oysters, scallops and mussels) are highly vulnerable.

Methods: A total of 55 years’ worth of data from Ghana’s marine artisanal fisheries were studied in relation to climate indices. The primary objective was to develop a simple linear regression model for predicting shellfish catch in Ghana. Key informant interviews were employed in soliciting data on changes in climate along the coastline and trends in marine artisanal shell fish catch. 

Results: The predictor variable that significantly explained shellfish production was temperature. Hence, the model is a valuable tool to predict future trends in the shellfish catch in marine artisanal fisheries.

Conclusions: Increases in sea surface temperature will adversely affect shellfish production. It is therefore important that the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and other stakeholders should, in their decision-making processes, ensure the formulation of climate smart policies and management strategies for sustainable use of the resource.
Improving the Credit Policy of Commercial Banks
Authors: Романова Г. , Romanova G. , Ковтунов Н. , Kovtunov N.
Published: May 2019

Th e article discusses the main problems of lending by commercial banks in modern conditions. Th e experience of consumer lending in European countries is studied. Based on the analysis, proposals were developed for improving the credit policy of Bank “Primorye”, and measures to minimize credit risk were proposed.
Why Customer Service Frustrates Consumers: Using a Tiered Organizational Structure to Exploit Hassle Costs
Authors: Dukes Anthony , Zhu Yi
Published: May 2019

Tiered customer service organizations are common and their tiered structure can frustrate customers so that they seek lower levels of redress.
Iteration with Stepsize Parameter and Condition Numbers for a Nonlinear Matrix Equation
Authors: M. Raza Shah Naqvi Syed , Meng Jie , Kim Hyun-Min
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the nonlinear matrix equation $X^p+A^TXA=Q$, where $p$ is a positive integer, $A$ is an arbitrary $n\times n$ matrix, and $Q$ is a symmetric positive definite matrix, is considered. A fixed-point iteration with stepsize parameter for obtaining the symmetric positive definite solution of the matrix equation is proposed. The explicit expressions of the normwise, mixed and componentwise condition numbers are derived. Several numerical examples are presented to show the efficiency of the proposed iterative method with proper stepsize parameter and the sharpness of the three kinds of condition numbers.
Ranks of quantum states with prescribed reduced states
Authors: Li Chi-Kwong , Poon Yiu-Tung , Wang Xuefeng
Published: May 2019

Let $\cM_n$ be the set of $n\times n$ complex matrices. In this note, all the possible ranks of a bipartite state in $\cM_m\otimes \cM_n$ with prescribed reduced states in the two subsystems, are determined. The results are used to determine the Choi rank of quantum channels $\Phi: \cM_m \rightarrow \cM_n$ sending $I/m$ to a specific state $\sigma_2 \in \cM_n$.
Structured eigenvalue/eigenvector backward errors of matrix pencils arising in optimal control
Authors: Mehl Christian , Mehrmann Volker , Sharma Punit
Published: May 2019

Eigenvalue and eigenpair backward errors are computed for matrix pencils arising in optimal control. In particular, formulas for backward errors are developed that are obtained under block-structure-preserving and symmetry-structure-preserving perturbations. It is shown that these eigenvalue and eigenpair backward errors are sometimes significantly larger than the corresponding backward errors that are obtained under perturbations that ignore the special structure of the pencil.
Gershgorin type sets for eigenvalues of matrix polynomials
Authors: Michailidou Christina , Psarrakos Panayiotis
Published: May 2019

New localization results for polynomial eigenvalue problems are obtained, by extending the notions of the Gershgorin set, the generalized Gershgorin set, the Brauer set and the Dashnic-Zusmanovich set to the case of matrix polynomials.
Determinantal Properties of Generalized Circulant Hadamard Matrices
Authors: Mitrouli Marilena , Turek Ondrej
Published: May 2019

The derivation of analytical formulas for the determinant and the minors of a given matrix is in general a difficult and challenging problem. The present work is focused on calculating minors of generalized circulant Hadamard matrices. The determinantal properties are studied explicitly, and generic theorems specifying the values of all the minors for this class of matrices are derived. An application of the derived formulae to an interesting problem of numerical analysis, the growth problem, is also presented.
D. Wearing,
AngloArabia: Why Gulf Wealth Matters to Britain
Authors: Raphael Sam
Published: May 2019

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Adding sticks to a bundle: government-imposed modifications to property
Authors: Booms Thomas
Published: May 2019

Legal economists analyze property rights in two distinct, but related enterprises. The ‘content’-enterprise treats property rights as collections of entitlements and seeks to explain the combinatorial principles at work in combining them. The ‘enforcement’-enterprise takes the existing entitlement structures as a given and focuses instead on whether and how the individual entitlements should be protected against appropriation. This article argues that the differences in how these two enterprises resolve property disputes carry policy implications: if ‘self-help’ measures parties take to appropriate or protect entitlements would lead to rent-seeking, the government should pre-emptively modify entitlement structures so that entitlements are assigned to the party that values them most.
A New Source of Yellow Coloration of the Sunflower Plant Top and Its Importance in Breeding
Authors: Popov V.M. , Dolhova T.A.
Published: May 2019

Inbred line Mh174B with the yellow coloration of the sunflower plant top was produced by hybridization of annual wild species with cultivated sunflower. The aim research was to evaluate genetic control of yellow coloration of the sunflower plant top in combination with other morphological traits (branchiness, pollen fertility restoration and ray flower coloration). A total of four F2 hybrid combinations of were created: Сх1010А × Mh174B, Сх1012А × Mh174B, Сх2111А × Mh174B, Мх845А × Mh174B. Yellow coloration of the sunflower plant top was shown to follow a monogenic mode of inheritance and, presumably, be controlled by the gene y. This trait is inherited independently from such traits as branchiness, pollen fertility restoration and ray flower coloration. The mainstreams of use of yellow coloration of the sunflower plant top in sunflower breeding and seed production are discussed.
Phytochemistry and neuroprotective effects of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk
Authors: Guenné Samson , Ouattara Nabèrè , Ouédraogo Noufou , Ciobica Alin , Hilou Adama , Kiendrebéogo Martin
Published: May 2019

Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. or Eclipta prostrata (Linn.) or Eclipta erecta (Linn.) is an herbaceous plant well known in Asian as African traditional medicines. These extracts are used in traditional medicine for treatment of microbial diseases and certain metabolic disorders. This review aimed to investigate phytochemical profile and neuroprotective effects of E. alba (L.) Hassk. Several compounds belonging to the families of phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids and polysaccharides have been isolated, identified or characterized from E. alba extracts. This plant has a diverse neuropharmacological profile. Thus, its extract improves cognitive deficits and also attenuated epileptic seizures. Phytomolecules implicated in these potentials are Eclalbasaponin II and luteolin, respectively. This document updates isolated and identified organic compounds from the extracts of E. alba and reviews their neuropharmacological activities.
The Application of Non-Destructive Geophysical Measurements for Mapping and Surveying the Hillforts in the Czech Republic
Authors: Křivánek Roman
Published: May 2019

[full article, abstract in English; abstract in Lithuanian]

The Czech landscape and its archaeological resources include the most varied types of prehistoric or early medieval hillforts. These fortified sites are found across a variety of different locations and possess different functions and dimensions (very often in units of hectares, unlike the later medieval strongholds, characterized by the dimensions of tenths of hectares of fortified areas). Due to this large area, the hillforts were verified using mainly small-scale archaeological investigations. Many other hillforts are also known to exist without any archaeological trenching, research or exact dating. A combination of various remote sensing techniques and non-destructive methods seems to be, in the last two decades, a fast and low-priced way to acquire new spatial information about these fortified sites. Geophysical measurements of hillforts and different me-thods were under all circumstances limited by various field conditions and the performance of used equipment. But some of the geophysical methods now offer new surveys of large areas of hillforts or nearly complete fortified sites. Seven chosen examples of various geophysical methods and techniques in this paper should illustrate the different possibilities of modern prospection and non-destructive mapping of hillforts. Their results could be used in archaeology, heritage care of intangible archaeological monuments or on different occasions for particular kinds of conservation, new protection or systematic study of hillforts.
Urbanismo líquido en la estrategia del caracol. Desmontando la espiral arquitectónica e ideológica de la ciudad posmoderna
Authors: Cabrera Cardenas Sergio
Published: May 2019

En este ensayo, el director Sergio Cabrera nos retrotrae a la génesis de su obra cinematográfica La estrategia del caracol. Nos muestra las dificultades de producción que una idea poética basada en un hecho real (unos malvivientes, que iban a ser desalojados, se largaron, con la propia casa, antes que llegara el juez) tuvo que afrontar con los recursos estéticos de principios de la década de los noventa; el origen mitológico y vital del proyecto (la estancia del propio director en China durante la Revolución Cultural); y, por último, la utopía revolucionaria que enarbola la cinta, recayente en los grupos subalternos que, con desparpajo y creatividad política, se confrontan a los grandes capitalistas. Del caracol, sólo que su carcasa, dispuesta a ser llenada de betón y vaciada con sueños.
Arquitectura y sociedad en el cine de la ciencia ficción
Authors: Perez Barreiro Sara
Published: May 2019

Las ciudades que se habitan cada día muchas no son perfectas, a lo largo de la historia del urbanismo se han trazado diversos diseños para mejorar la calidad de vida del hombre. La diferencia de clases, el hacinamiento, la falta de libertad, son algunos de los problemas que tiene la sociedad actual, Tal vez en el cine de ciencia ficción se encuentren otros ejemplos de ciudades ideales con modelos de sociedades utópicas, o tal vez el cine solo sea un reflejo de la vida real.
La legitimidad de proximidad: Una aproximación empírica, en la ciudad de Barranquilla
Authors: Terán Jose Enrique
Published: May 2019

A la luz de los procesos de reconfiguración del sistema capitalista en los 90´s (globalización) y de las transiciones democráticas que se derivan de ello, este análisis pretende develar, que principios constitutivos de la legitimidad de proximidad caracterizan los periodos de gobernanza 2008-2011 y 2016-2019 de la administración del alcalde Alejandro Char y en la misma línea, determinar si esta nueva forma de gobernanza ha creado o consolidado algún tipo de dispositivo participativo, para la toma de decisión en los asuntos públicos de la ciudad. Al mismo tiempo se determinará, si la figura participativa de cabildos abiertos implementada en el año 2016 por el alcalde en mención, se configura como un dispositivo participativo provisto de deliberación, autonomía y cogestión entre ciudadanía-Estado, o si se reduce a una mera figura consultiva mediante la cual, la administración pública se abastece de insumos para legitimar su actuación política en la esfera pública.
Análisis de aciertos y brechas en la promoción de la participación ciudadana en niños, niñas y jóvenes de la ciudad de Medellín
Authors: Brand Edinson
Published: May 2019

Los semilleros infantiles para la participación desarrollados durante más de una década en Medellín son un proceso formativo para la generación de una ciudadanía activa; no obstante, aún no se han dimensionado sus resultados en la población beneficiaria. De aquí, el propósito del estudio fue evidenciar el nivel de cumplimiento de sus objetivos en la construcción de ciudadanía y en la transformación de conductas sociales y políticas en los beneficiarios. Se realizaron talleres grupales para la identificación logros, aciertos y brechas. Los resultados evidenciaron el fortalecimiento de las relaciones de convivencia, la construcción de redes sociales, el conocimiento y apropiación del territorio, a través de metodologías lúdicas, como el aporte más significativo en la construcción de ciudadanía.
Análise acústica da voz: comparação entre dois tipos de microfones
Authors: Krik Vanessa Mara , Ribeiro Vanessa Veis , Siqueira Larissa Thais Donalonso , Rosa Marcelo de Oliveira , Leite Ana Paula Dassie
Published: May 2019

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar os valores das medidas acústicas da voz, extraídas de gravações vocais realizadas com dois tipos de microfones. Métodos Participaram da pesquisa 103 pessoas do sexo feminino, com idades entre 18 e 54 anos. Foram coletadas amostras da vogal sustentada /e/, captadas por dois microfones, simultaneamente: Shure SM58 e Karsect HT-9. Foi realizada a análise acústica das vozes, com a extração de valores de frequência fundamental (F0), variação da frequência (Jitter) e variação de amplitude dos segmentos fundamentais da voz (Shimmer) e proporção Glottal to Noise Excitation (GNE). Resultados Houve diferenças entre os microfones apenas na medida de Shimmer, com predomínio de valores mais altos captados pelo Karsect HT-9. Porém, os resultados de ambos os microfones estiveram dentro dos padrões de normalidade do software utilizado. Conclusão Os resultados da análise acústica extraídos a partir da gravação de voz realizada com os microfones Shure SM58 e Karsect HT-9 foram semelhantes, concluindo-se que ambos os microfones podem ser utilizados para gravação do sinal sonoro na análise acústica.
Extradition in the absence of state agreements: Provisions in international treaties on extradition
Authors: Mokoena Untalimile Crystal Nyathi , Lubaale Emma Charlene
Published: May 2019

By virtue of state sovereignty, states exercise authority over all persons and things within their territories. This includes individuals suspected of committing or charged with crimes in foreign states. International law generally imposes no obligation to surrender individuals suspected of or charged with committing crimes in foreign states. Fugitives may only be returned when an agreement exists between the states concerned. As such, states are increasingly ratifying international treaties mandating cooperation to ensure that individuals responsible for certain categories of crimes are brought to justice. It is worth noting that some of these states lack extradition treaties with each other. For example, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are party to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) which mandates that they cooperate with each other in ensuring that crimes related to corruption are prosecuted. However, there is no extradition treaty between South Africa and the UAE. In these circumstances, a question arises as to whether they can they rely on the UNCAC to extradite individuals for corruption-related crimes. If they can, what is the nature of the international obligation entrenched under the UNCAC? Overall, what is the standing of international treaty clauses on extradition for states without extradition treaties?
MUT İLÇESİ HACIAHMETLİ KÖYÜ HAYVANCILIK VE ÇOBANLIK KÜLTÜRÜ ÜZERİNE HALK BİLİMSEL BİR İNCELEME
Authors: Kabak Turgay
Published: May 2019

Mersin ili ve ilçeleri, önü Akdeniz,
arkası Toros dağları olan yeşilliği ve yaşama uygun iklimi ile en eski
dönemlerden günümüze kadar konargöçer Türklerin ilgisini çekmiş ve onlara
yurtluk yapmış bir yöremizdir. Hem ikliminin yumuşaklığı hem bitki örtüsü
zenginliği hem de coğrafi olarak hayvan özellikle de keçi beslemeye uygun bir
yapıya sahip olduğu için yöreye yerleşen Yörükler, bölgede hayvancılık
etrafında gelişen zengin bir kültür meydana getirmişlerdir.

Bu çalışmada Mersin iline bağlı
olan Mut ilçesinin Toroslarda kalan köylerinden birisi olan Hacıahmetli
köyünde, hayvancılık geleneğini sürdüren son çobanlardan yapılmış olan
derlemelerden elde edilen halk veterinerliği, yaylacılık, hayvanlardan elde
edilen ürünler, hayvanların beslenmesi ve barınması gibi konulardaki geleneksel
bilgiler halk bilimsel yöntemlerle incelenip açıklanmaya çalışılmıştır.