bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Literacy in Post-certification Healthcare Education
Authors: Montebello Veronica
Published: March 2016

Digitally mediated contexts are proliferating across all professional disciplines and also transverse social cultures in higher education worldwide. Malta is no exception. Financial pressures, keeping up with international advances, maintaining standards and changing patterns of lifelong learning are driving the education institutions to adopt online modes of communication, interaction and education. As expected, these changes can also be evidenced in the healthcare education sector. This inevitably brings with it a drive towards innovative modalities of interaction, carrying out research and in the pedagogy of teaching and learning. More importantly it necessitates an institutional shift towards prioritising the development of digital literacy among higher education students and academics alike. This does come with challenges – financial and logistical – but significant in the case of post-certification students is the varying degrees of digital literacy competences, combined with a packed curriculum, to be covered in a restrained timeframe, in combination with work and personal commitments. Additionally, a large percentage of these students have gone through their education in the traditional format, and therefore studying in a technology-centric environment presents unique difficulties. The following report presents recommendations envisaged to overcome the challenges around digital literacy in post-certification healthcare professionals. It is to be highlighted that many of the proposals are applicable to the development of digital literacy within the wider higher education community and are not restricted to post-certification healthcare professions alone.
Modeling metapopulation dynamics of HIV epidemic on a linear lattice with nearest neighbour coupling
Authors: Rotich Titus , Cheruiyot Robert , Anupi Pauline , Jeptanui Flomena
Published: March 2016

Many mathematical models for the spread of infectious diseases in a population assume homogeneous mixing, but due to spatial distribution, there exist distinct patches with unique disease dispersion dynamics, especially if between patch mixing due to travel and migration is limited. In this paper, three levels of disease status in a - patch metapopulation was studied using a simple SIR-HIV epidemic model in a one dimensional nearest neighbour coupling lattice. The basic reproductive ratio , which is a function of coupling strength , is shown to affect stability characteristics of equilibrium points. The disease free equilibrium (DFE) is globally asymptotically stable irrespective of the value of  but the stability of the endemic equilibrium point (EEP) depends on the coupling strength . It was found that at the critical value of coupling strength , the subpopulations dynamics are synchronized while for  the subpopulation dynamics are independent. Patch isolation strategy for the control of HIV dispersion requires a critical coupling strength of . This interaction restriction reduces  to values less than one, and the disease will be eliminated, making isolation effective. Demographic and epidemiological parameters of Vihiga County in Kenya were used in the study.
1. Insects – A Natural Nutrient Source for Poultry – A Review
Authors: Józefiak Damian , Józefiak Agata , Kierończyk Bartosz , Rawski Mateusz , Świątkiewicz Sylwester , Długosz Jakub , Engberg Ricarda Margarete
Published: March 2016

The consumption of poultry meat and eggs is expected to increase considerably in the nearest future, which creates the demand for new poultry feed ingredients in order to support sustainable intensive production. Moreover, the constant improvement of the genetic potential of poultry has resulted in an increased nutrient density in poultry feeds, which limits the possibility to include low quality feed ingredients. Therefore, the feed industry needs new sources of highly digestible protein with a desirable amino acid composition to substitute other valuable but limited protein sources of animal origin, such as fishmeal. With estimated 1.5 to 3 million species, the class of insects harbours the largest species variety in the world including species providing a high protein and sulphur amino acids content, which can be successfully exploited as feed for poultry. The aim of this paper is to review the present state of knowledge concerning the use of insect protein in poultry nutrition and the possibilities of mass production of insects for the feed industry. There is no doubt that insects have an enormous potential as a source of nutrients (protein) and active substances (polyunsaturated fatty acids, antimicrobial peptides) for poultry. It can be concluded, based on many experimental results, that meals from insects being members of the orders Diptera (black soldier fly, housefly), Coleoptera (mealworms) and Orthoptera (grasshoppers, locust, crickets and katylids), may be successfully used as feed material in poultry diets. However, legislation barriers in the European Union, as well as relatively high costs and limited quantity of produced insects are restrictions in the large-scale use of insect meals in poultry nutrition.
Applications of Interpolation Operators
Authors: Baboş Alina
Published: March 2016

We use Lagrange, Hermite and Birkhoff operator that interpolates a function f and certain of its derivatives, defined on a triangle, for construction of some surfaces. We construct this type of surfaces using concrete examples.
Opportunity and Utility in Applying Scenarios Method in the Critical Infrastructures Protection Field
Authors: Badea Dorel , Oancea Romana , Coman Marian , Ionescu Cristian
Published: March 2016

Critical infrastructures protection research field is booming today because of the practical aspects and sometimes by taking in consideration its imminence character which should be addressed to it. The complexity of this domain originates from critical infrastructures architectures, dominated by the local or regional interdependencies and by the necessity feature of ensuring proper functionality, all in a framework of analysis characterized by unprecedented diversification of physical and / or virtual threats. In this context, this article analyzes (theoretical and based on a practical study) the possibility of using scenarios as a high form of contextual representation method.
The Systems Approach to Transform the Capabilities of Military Logistics
Authors: Lis Andrzej , Jałowiec Tomasz
Published: March 2016

The aim of the paper is to analyze the potential and challenges of applying the systems approach to transform military logistics as an element of the armed forces development program. First of all, the structure of the military logistic system is identified and discussed. Secondly, the principles governing military logistics are studied in order to point out the requirements for a military logistic system. Thirdly, the operational capability based approach to transform and develop contemporary armed forces is considered. Finally, the systems approach to develop the capabilities of military logistics is operationalized and the tools supporting the planning of the military logistic system development are proposed.
Requirements for Participative Management as a Source of Sustainable Competitive Advantage and Tipical Management Method
Authors: Muscalu Emanoil , Rizescu Alexandru , Rizescu Alexandru Marius
Published: March 2016

The economic context in the recent years has undergone major changes in modern methods and techniques used in management. The current competitive environment is characterized by permanent turbulences influencing firstly the managerial act itself. Out of the many methods and techniques applied so far, some turn out to be less adaptable to the current economic and social context.

In the same train of ideas, the organizations always looking for sources of competitive advantage have the tendency of applying innovation and the new in the field. Another trend noted in the current management is that of going towards using operational management methods that enable the replacement of the current descriptive empirical management with certain regulatory and scientific methods.

From this point of view the study aims to highlight the competitive advantage generated by applying the participative management as a management method used within the organizations in order to obtain a better efficiency of the economic activities.
Different ways of seeing political depictions: A qualitative–quantitative analysis using Q methodology
Authors: Lobinger Katharina , Brantner Cornelia
Published: March 2016

Visual depictions of politicians play an essential role in the impression formation of the audience because they convey visual cues and attributes related to, for example, likeability or competence. This study examines the subjective audience evaluations based on the visual portrayals of a politician by using Q methodology, a qualitative–quantitative approach of audience research. Q-sorts of 33 different pictures showing a high-ranking European politician, along with personal interviews, were used to probe the audience’s perception of a favorable or unfavorable picture. Q factor analysis yielded four groups of participants. The audience groups differ regarding their expectation toward favorably depicted political behavior and the involved balance of professional political leadership competences, social competences, and personality. In addition, technical and formal representation strategies were identified as important visual cues, but not for all audience groups.
A blessing or a double-edged sword? Politicians’ perceptions of newspapers’ impact on the functioning of democracy
Authors: Maurer Peter , Arendt Florian
Published: March 2016

This study investigated the interplay of politicians’ perceptions regarding the political influence of leading newspapers and the mass media’s general impact on democracy. The scope of the study was restricted to democratic-corporatist media systems. We used comparative data of political elites (
Experimental Investigations. Neurotrophic Factor Receptors trkB and trkC in Experimental Model of Lesion in Rat Brain Structures in Schizophrenia / Рецепторы Нейротрофических Факторов trkB И trkC В Эксперимен- Тальной Модели Для Исследования Повреждений В Мозговых Структурах Крысы При Шизофрении
Authors: Koeva Yvetta A. , Sivkov Stefan T. , Grozlekova Lilia S.
Published: March 2016

INTRODUCTION: The maldevelopmental model of schizophrenia postulates pathological alterations in embryonal neurogenesis as the etiopathogenetic basis of schizophrenic psychoses. The neurotrophic factor hypothesis explains these neuropathological abnormalities as the result of alterations of the neurotrophin system caused by different mechanisms such as a genetic, infectious and traumatic factors. The tyrosine-kinase containing receptors trkB and trkC mediate growth-promoting effects of neurotrophins and respond to changes in neurotrophic factors availability. AIM: The aim of the present study was to establish the expression pattern of trkB and trkC in rat brain structures by a developmental model of schizophrenia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: On cryostat coronal brain sections of control and lesioned rats (after infusion of ibotenic acid solution bilaterally into the hippocampal formation), immunoreactions for trkB and trkC were performed. RESULTS: We found diminished expression of trkB and trkC in the hippocampal formation of lesioned animals compared to the controls. Quantitative measurements of immunohistochemical reactions intensity and statistical analysis confi rmed the reduced immunoreactivity for antigens under study (trkB and trkC) in the positive hippocampal neurons of 56-day-old lesioned rats compared to the control animals. CONCLUSION: The observed downregulation of neurotrophic factor receptors expression may compromise the function and plasticity of hippocampal formation in schizophrenic brains.
Acute Poisoning with Dapsone and Olanzapine: Severe Methemoglobinemia and Coma with a Favourable Outcome / Острое Отравление Медикаментами Dapsone И Olanzapine: Тяжёлая Метгемоглобинемия И Кома С Благоприятным Исходом
Authors: Iliev Yanko T. , Zagorov Marin Y. , Grudeva-Popova Janet G.
Published: March 2016

Dapsone is a drug commonly used in the treatment of leprosy. In Europe it is rarely prescribed, mostly for the treatment of skin diseases such as dermatitis herpetiformis. Poisoning with dapsone is rare and reports of such cases are of interest for toxicological practice. We describe the only acute dapsone poisoning in a caseload series of 21000 intoxications treated in the Clinical Toxicology Clinic at St George University Hospital in Plovdiv, Bulgaria between 1999 and 2013.

We report on a 36-year-old woman who attempted deliberate self-poisoning with an ingestion of approximately 4.5 g of dapsone and 0.3 g of olanzapine. On admission, the patient was in a state of severe intoxication and comatose. On admission to hospital 9 hours after the ingestion, the methemoglobin level was 51.7%. The patient recovered 8 days later. She received complex treatment including intubation, ventilation, repeated gastric lavage, hemodialysis, blood exchange transfusion and antidote treatment with methylene blue. She was discharged in good clinical condition with minimal organ damage such as mild toxic hepatitis.
Dysfunctional Effects of a Conflict in a Healthcare Organization / Дисфункциональный Аспект Конфликта В Организации Здравоохранения
Authors: Raykova Ekaterina L. , Semerjieva Mariya A. , Yordanov Georgi Y. , Cherkezov Todor D.
Published: March 2016

Conflicts in healthcare settings are quite common events because of the continuous changes and transformations today’s healthcare organizations are undergoing and the vigorous interaction between the medical professionals working in them. AIM: To survey the opinions of medical professionals about the possible destructive effects of conflicts on them in the workplace. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a direct individual survey of 279 medical employees at four general hospitals. We used a set of questions that reflect the negative effects and consequences of conflict on healthcare professionals as direct or indirect participants. All data were analysed using the descriptive statistics and non-parametric analysis at a significance level for the null hypothesis of p < 0.05. RESULTS: Workplace conflicts contribute a lot to the stress, psychological tension and emotional exhaustion medical professionals are exposed to. The confrontation the conflict brings the participants into acts as a catalyst of the conflict and enhances the manifestation of hostile actions. A conflict generates a situation which has an impact on the behaviour of all participants involved in it giving rise to emotional states such as anger, aggression and reproaches. The destructive consequences resulting from a conflict are seen in the reduced work satisfaction and demotivation to perform the work activity. The contradictions that arise as a result affect negatively the team cooperation and obstruct the collaborative efforts in solving the problems in the healthcare setting. CONCLUSION: A conflict in a healthcare setting exerts a considerable destructive effect on an employee, therefore it requires prompt identification and effective intervention to minimise its unfavourable outcomes.
Splitting and survival probabilities in stochastic random walk methods and applications
Authors: Sabelfeld Karl K.
Published: March 2016

We suggest a series of extremely
fast stochastic algorithms based on exact representations we derive in this paper for the first passage time and exit point probability densities, splitting and survival probabilities. We apply the developed algorithms to the following three classes of problems: (1) simulation
of epitaxial nanowire growth, (2) diffusion imaging of microstructures, in particular, cathodoluminescence imaging for threading dislocations, and (3) simulation of the annihilation of electrons and holes in vicinity of nonradiative centers and quantum efficiency evaluation. In the last example the Random Walk on Spheres method is used to solve nonlinear diffusion equations,
and to more general systems of nonlinear Smoluchowski equations combined with the kinetic Monte Carlo method.
Precision of the Sinefitting-Based Total Harmonic Distortion Estimator
Authors: Alegria Francisco C.
Published: March 2016

An analytical expression for the standard deviation of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) estimation is derived. It applies to the case where the estimator uses sine fitting. It is shown that, in common circumstances, it is inversely proportional to the actual value of THD, the signal-to-noise ratio and the square root of the number of samples. The proposed expression is validated both with numerical simulations and an experimental setup using a Monte Carlo procedure.
Analysis of Applicability of Flow Averaging Pitot Tubes in the Areas of Flow Disturbance
Authors: Pochwała Sławomir , Pospolita Janusz
Published: March 2016

The issues connected with the complex design of various facilities, including up-to-date boiler equipment as well as the ways of organizing the space around them, are the reasons why there is often a lack of room for mounting a flowmeter in accordance with the recommendations of manufacturers. In most cases the problem is associated with ensuring sufficient lengths of straight pipe leading into and out of a flowmeter. When this condition cannot be fulfilled, the uncertainty of measurement increases above the value guaranteed by the manufacturer of the flowmeter. This sort of operation problem has encouraged the authors of this paper to undertake research aimed at the analysis of applicability of averaging Pitot tubes in the areas of flow disturbance.
Analysis of the Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Field Emission from Laptop Computers
Authors: Brodić Darko
Published: March 2016

This study addresses the problem of magnetic field emission produced by the laptop computers. Although, the magnetic field is spread over the entire frequency spectrum, the most dangerous part of it to the laptop users is the frequency range from 50 to 500 Hz, commonly called the extremely low frequency magnetic field. In this frequency region the magnetic field is characterized by high peak values. To examine the influence of laptop’s magnetic field emission in the office, a specific experiment is proposed. It includes the measurement of the magnetic field at six laptop’s positions, which are in close contact to its user. The results obtained from ten different laptop computers show the extremely high emission at some positions, which are dependent on the power dissipation or bad ergonomics. Eventually, the experiment extracts these dangerous positions of magnetic field emission and suggests possible solutions.
Interpolated-DFT-Based Fast and Accurate Amplitude and Phase Estimation for the Control of Power
Authors: Borkowski Józef , Kania Dariusz
Published: March 2016

Quality of energy produced in renewable energy systems has to be at the high level specified by respective standards and directives. One of the most important factors affecting quality is the estimation accuracy of grid signal parameters. This paper presents a method of a very fast and accurate amplitude and phase grid signal estimation using the Fast Fourier Transform procedure and maximum decay side-lobes windows. The most important features of the method are elimination of the impact associated with the conjugate’s component on the results and its straightforward implementation. Moreover, the measurement time is very short ‒ even far less than one period of the grid signal. The influence of harmonics on the results is reduced by using a bandpass pre-filter. Even using a 40 dB FIR pre-filter for the grid signal with THD ≈ 38%, SNR ≈ 53 dB and a 20‒30% slow decay exponential drift the maximum estimation errors in a real-time DSP system for 512 samples are approximately 1% for the amplitude and approximately 8.5・10‒2rad for the phase, respectively. The errors are smaller by several orders of magnitude with using more accurate pre-filters.
The Analysis of Psychophysiological Conditions of Stress Dynamics in Candidates to the Position of a Professional Diver with Consideration of the Psychological Aspects of Diving
Authors: Remlein Małgorzata , Buczyński Jacek , Olszański Romuald , Buczyński Andrzej , Kobos Zdzisław , Juszczak Dariusz
Published: March 2016

The article presents a characterisation of stress situations and psychological reactions during diving. It describes the fundamental personality dimensions and temperament features, and discusses the results of research into the methods of coping with stress as well as the levels of anxiety in candidates to the position of a professional driver.
Selected Conditions for the Management of Underwater Systems Utilising Unmanned Vehicles
Authors: Matejski Mariusz , Graczyk Tadeusz
Published: March 2016

The article presents selected issues related to the management of underwater systems utilising remotely controlled unmanned vehicles, constructed and used at the Faculty of Maritime Technology and Transport of the West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin. System managements covers a number of activation levels connected with the current utilisation of systems, as well as developmental works. The article accentuates the conditions of use for the said systems with the main consideration of didactic purposes.
Sudden Hearing Loss Treated With Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) – Case Study
Authors: Fal Michał , Piechocki Jacek , Morawska-Kochman Monika , Michałkiewicz Maria , Kręcicki Tomasz
Published: March 2016

The article presents a case study of a 32-year-old patient admitted to the Mazowia Hyperbaric Therapy Centre due to a sudden loss of hearing. In an interview the patient reported an abrupt hearing deterioration in his right ear and the feeling of congestion in the left ear with bilateral tinnitus present for over 2 months. The patient was qualified to undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO). After 15 treatment sessions in a pressure chamber a noticeable improvement of hearing in his right-ear was noted (proved by pure tone audiometry) and subjective hearing upswing in his left ear.

The bibliography includes the articles and references concerning the time limits of HBO therapy and its effectiveness in the treatment of sudden deafness.
Factor XII – A Limitation for Divers?
Authors: Radziwon Piotr , Olszański Romuald , Korsak Jolanta , Siermontowski Piotr
Published: March 2016

The lack of evidence for the tissue-factor dependent activation of the coagulation system and the release of thrombin on one hand, and a decreased concentration of factor XII after short term air, saturated air and heliox exposures, as well as an increased concentration of the plasmin-antiplasmin complex (PAP) after short dives indicate that diving and decompression possibly affect fibrinolysis. The aim of our research was to verify the assumption that diving and decompression activate the system of fibrinolysis and the clarification of the pathomechanism of this activation.

The study involved 50 healthy volunteers who were subjected to short-term, air hyperbaric exposures at 400 kPa and 700 kPa, which correspond to 30m and 60m dives. Decompression was applied in accordance with Naval tables of decompression. Before hyperbaric exposition and after decompression the following factors were determined: activity of factor XII, concentration and activity of t-PA, concentration and activity of PAI-1, concentration of alpha2- antiplasmin, concentration of PAP, concentration of neutrophil elastase.

The following observations have been made: a statistically significant increase in the factor XII activity, increase in the PAP complex concentration and a simultaneous significant decline in the α2-AP activity. No measurable t-PA activity or significant changes in t-PA concentration have been observed. In addition, a statistically significant decline in both the activity and concentration of PAI-1 has been observed, which was more pronounced after the expositions that corresponded to 60 m dives. The concentrations of granulocyte elastase did not differ significantly before and after decompression.

Conclusions: People qualified for diving should have the following risk factors examined: risk factors of increased fibrynolytic activity - haemostasis abnormalities that increase the risk of haemorrhage, possibility of parietal blood clots/thrombi.
Triangular 3D Laser Scanning in Underwater Photogrammetry
Authors: Wojtowicz Aleksander , Stolarczyk Konrad
Published: March 2016

The use of triangular 3D laser scanning may significantly enhance the visual inspection of underwater objects. In these days of high demand for accurate information, exclusively photographic documentation is not enough, as it is geometrically flawed.

The authors of this article are trying to present the rudiments of laser scanning, a modern means of measuring, which is reliable, relatively easy to use and works in accordance with basic good measurement practices. With the use of a laser beam, a point model of the measured object is generated with a resolution that is adapted to the requirements. A well performed scan will cover the entire surface of the measured object with no information gaps, as is often the case with photographic documentation which focuses solely on key details. Photographic documentation is now already being replaced by Structure from Motion technology, the latter being an alternative to laser scanning, which creates a textured 3D model from the collection of photographs of the object with similar accuracy, but with more time required.
The Analysis the Emergency Protection of Water Reservoirs in Olsztyn
Authors: Wiesner Wojciech , Kowalewski Bogusław
Published: March 2016

Within the administrative boundaries of Olsztyn, there are 16 lakes and several artificial swimming facilities. They provide attractive conditions for water recreation and water sports. But are these conditions completely safe?

The aim of the study is to get familiar with the safety conditions of water reservoirs in Olsztyn in terms of opportunities for water recreation. In order to solve the addressed problem, the analysis of source materials has been performed, the field research has been conducted and the survey has been applied.

The outcome of the research includes the description of the recreational value of these water reservoirs, the identification of potential threats (internal and external) and the evaluation of logistic and emergency protection.
Autophagy - Adaptive Molecular Mechanisms in Condition of Starvation
Authors: Pedrycz Agnieszka , Tomasiak Małgorzata , Cichacz Beata
Published: March 2016

Autophagy is an extremely old process during which long-lived proteins and cellular organelles are removed by means of lysosomes. Autophagy may be caused by cellular stress mechanisms. Research has proven that autophagy plays a key role in obtaining nutrients and adapting to the conditions of starvation. Owing to this, it takes part in maintaining homeostasis in cytoplasm and cell nucleus. This objective may be achieved through a number of ways. Depending on the manner in which a substrate connects with the lysosome, we can talk about macroautophagy and microautophagy. Additionally, some authors also distinguish a chaperone-mediated autophagy. The article presented below describes molecular mechanisms of each type of autophagy and focuses particularly on macroautophagy, which is the best understood of all the autophagy types.
Effect of cross-linking on rheological properties and a model for flexibility-rigidity transition in SBS/PBMA LIPNs
Authors: Ma Yanqing , He Fajun , Wang Heyun , Liu Huan , Wei Zhong
Published: March 2016

A series of latex interpenetrating polymer networks (LIPNs) with various cross-linking levels were prepared with polystyrene-polybutadiene-polystyrene (SBS) and butyl methacrylate (BMA) by emulsion polymerization. The gel content of the resultant latex particles ranged from 13.2% to 90.8%, with the amount of cross-linking agent increased. The structural, thermal and rheological properties of the latex particles were investigated by laser particle analysis, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and torque rheometry. Furthermore, in order to study the effect of gel content on the flow properties, a model is shown to predict the existence of a flexibility-rigidity transition of SBS/PBMA LIPNs as the amount of cross-linking agent increased. Torque data were interpreted in terms of shear rate, shear stress and viscosity. The relationship between gel content of SBS/PBMA LIPNs and polyvinyl chloride compositions and their effect on plasticization performance were determined, and the predictions of the model have good agreement with their flexibility-rigidity transition.
Impact of the Economic Crisis on FDI in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Dornean Adina , Oanea Dumitru-Cristian
Published: March 2016

Few studies have investigated the relationship between the 2008 global financial and economic crisis and foreign direct investments (FDI) flows. This paper aims to analyze empirically this relationship for Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. The crisis had a major impact on capital flows to the region, although the magnitude of the impact differed notably, depending on specific characteristics of the host country. In order to highlight this, we use a multivariate regression model based on dynamic panel data methodology, which will help us in analyzing also the significant factors affecting the evolution of FDI in the CEE countries during the period 2000-2013.
Impact of the IFRS Adoption on Financial Assets and Liabilities. Empirical Evidence from Bucharest Stock Exchange
Authors: Huian Maria Carmen
Published: March 2016

The aim of this paper is to study the impact of the transition to IFRS on financial assets and liabilities reported by non-financial companies listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange. It uses data from the individual financial statements for the comparative year 2011, prepared under both Romanian accounting standards (RAS) and IFRS. Through a set of financial ratios involving information from balance sheet, income statement and cash flow statement, we study how the IFRS adoption affected financial assets and liabilities. We also test the empirical correlation between profitability (measured by ROE) and financial assets/ liabilities before and after the transition to IFRS. We find that financial instruments are very little affected by the change in the accounting system. However, the association between ROE and financial assets/ liabilities is of greater intensity for the IFRS data.
Improving Graduates' Employability in It Field. The Case of Accounting and Information Systems Study Program
Authors: Hurbean Luminiţa , Păvăloaia Vasile Daniel , Fotache Doina
Published: March 2016

The studies published in 2015 analyzing the need for human resource in Iasi IT market (the most representative market for the North-East of Romania) conclude that the demand for specialists exceeds by far the number of graduates from faculties which train IT specialists. Nationwide, within the FEBA2, the employment rate for the students that complete the Economic Informatics undergraduate program and different master programs that specialize students in BIS3 is approximately 95%. We strongly believe that the students graduating the program AIS4 could get a higher employability in the IT area and appropriate improvement measures would beneficially contribute to a higher rate of employability, but also to the diversification of their professional horizon and their adjustment to the IT field requirements for professional accountants nowadays. The research also attempts to determine the profile of AIS graduates and their compatibility with IT related positions in the labour market and graduates' employability in terms of knowledge, skills and attributes relevant to the employers' needs.
Employment Dynamics in Romania After the Crisis. A Global Value Chains Perspective
Authors: Mărginean Silvia
Published: March 2016

After the 2008-2009 crisis, the challenge of understanding the mechanisms and structure of the world economy has begun to generate different approaches of economic globalization. This article uses Global Value Chain framework to examine the impact of the crisis on sectorial employment for six selected industries from Romania (Basic Metals and Fabricated Metal, Electrical and Optical Equipment, Transport Equipment, Machinery, Textiles and Textile Products, Chemicals and Chemical Products). With more than 70% of Romanian exports, and almost 14% of the employees these were the main real transmission channels for the crisis, other than financial markets. The study found that dynamic of the employment in these sectors has a different pattern than the national one. Employment in the sectors which are parts of Global Value Chains was very sensitive to global crisis: the average number of employees dropped by 15% in 2009 (comparing to 10% - the percentage for the whole economy) but they didn’t follow the national recovery trend (in 2013 the total number of employees increased by more than 11% in Romania but the numbers stayed almost the same in the six selected industries). These findings suggest that Romania need to understand the specificity of these trends and to use the right policy tools in order to achieve economic growth and development through participation in Global Value Chains.
Leaders – Their Impact on Others
Authors: Văcar Anca
Published: March 2016

Nowadays, the increased interest and attention that leadership receives from organizations worldwide, is obvious. Perhaps one of the reasons is that people search for models to be followed and this thing means that the leaders have to assume risks. They have to take a step forward, thus guiding their followers and upholders. And, above all, leaders make their upholders to want the accomplishment of the targets, rather than using authority and persuading their upholders through coercive measures in order to obtain such results.
Application ofq-Space Diffusion MRI for the Visualization of White Matter
Authors: Fujiyoshi Kanehiro , Hikishima Keigo , Nakahara Jin , Tsuji Osahiko , Hata Junichi , Konomi Tsunehiko , Nagai Toshihiro , Shibata Shinsuke , Kaneko Shinjiro , Iwanami Akio , Momoshima Suketaka , Takahashi Shinichi , Jinzaki Masahiro , Suzuki Norihiro , Toyama Yoshiaki , Nakamura Masaya , Okano Hideyuki
Published: March 2016

White matter abnormalities in the CNS have been reported recently in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Quantitation of non-Gaussianity for water diffusion byq-space diffusional MRI (QSI) renders biological diffusion barriers such as myelin sheaths; however, the time-consuming nature of this method hinders its clinical application. In the current study, we aimed to refine QSI protocols to enable their clinical application and to visualize myelin signals in a clinical setting. For this purpose, animal studies were first performed to optimize the acquisition protocol of a non-Gaussian QSI metric. The heat map of standardized kurtosis values derived from optimal QSI (myelin map) was then created. Histological validation of the myelin map was performed in myelin-deficient mice and in a nonhuman primate by monitoring its variation during demyelination and remyelination after chemical spinal cord injury. The results demonstrated that it was sensitive enough to depict dysmyelination, demyelination, and remyelination in animal models. Finally, its utility in clinical practice was assessed by a pilot clinical study in a selected group of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The human myelin map could be obtained within 10 min with a 3 T MR scanner. Use of the myelin map was practical for visualizing white matter and it sensitively detected reappearance of myelin signals after demyelination, possibly reflecting remyelination in MS patients. Our results together suggest that the myelin map, a kurtosis-related heat map obtainable with time-saving QSI, may be a novel and clinically useful means of visualizing myelin in the human CNS.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMyelin abnormalities in the CNS have been gaining increasing attention in various neurological and psychiatric diseases. However, appropriate methods with which to monitor CNS myelin in daily clinical practice have been lacking. In the current study, we introduced a novel MRI modality that produces the “myelin map.” The myelin map accurately depicted myelin status in mice and nonhuman primates and in a pilot clinical study of multiple sclerosis patients, suggesting that it is useful in detecting possibly remyelinated lesions. A myelin map of the human brain could be obtained in <10 min using a 3 T scanner and it therefore promises to be a powerful tool for researchers and clinicians examining myelin-related diseases.
Connectivity Profiles Reveal a Transition Subarea in the Parahippocampal Region That Integrates the Anterior Temporal–Posterior Medial Systems
Authors: Zhuo Junjie , Fan Lingzhong , Liu Yong , Zhang Yuanchao , Yu Chunshui , Jiang Tianzi
Published: March 2016

Traditional anatomical studies of the parahippocampal region (PHR) defined the lateral portion into two subregions, the perirhinal (PRC) and parahippocampal (PHC) cortices. Based on this organization, several models suggested that the PRC and the PHC play different roles in memory through connections with different memory-related brain networks. To identify the key components of the human PHR, we used a well accepted connection-based parcellation method on two independent datasets. Our parcellation divided the PRC and PHC into three subregions, specifically, the rostral PRC, caudal PRC (PRCc), and PHC. The connectivity profile for each subregion showed that the rostral PRC was connected to the anterior temporal (AT) system and the PHC was connected to the posterior medial (PM) system. The transition area (PRCc) integrated the AT-PM systems. These results suggest that the lateral PHR not only contains functionally segregated subregions, but also contains a functionally integrated subregion.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWe redefined the cartography of the human parahippocampal region (PHR) and identified a transition subarea based on distinct anatomical and functional connectivity profiles. This well defined anatomical organization of the PHR is necessary for expanding our understanding and studying the functional relevance of its subregions in recognition memory. We found that the transition subregion [caudal perirhinal cortex (PRCc)] is a functionally integrated subregion that integrates the anterior temporal (AT)–posterior medial (PM) systems. In addition, we found that the core components of the AT and PM systems connect with the PHR in the rostral PRC and parahippocampal cortex (PHC), respectively, rather than connecting with the traditional, larger, and thus less concise PRC and PHC areas. This may lead to new insights into the human memory system and related neurodegenerative diseases.
Neuroinflammatory Dynamics Underlie Memory Impairments after Repeated Social Defeat
Authors: McKim Daniel B. , Niraula Anzela , Tarr Andrew J. , Wohleb Eric S. , Sheridan John F. , Godbout Jonathan P.
Published: March 2016

Repeated social defeat (RSD) is a murine stressor that recapitulates key physiological, immunological, and behavioral alterations observed in humans exposed to chronic psychosocial stress. Psychosocial stress promotes prolonged behavioral adaptations that are associated with neuroinflammatory signaling and impaired neuroplasticity. Here, we show that RSD promoted hippocampal neuroinflammatory activation that was characterized by proinflammatory gene expression and by microglia activation and monocyte trafficking that was particularly pronounced within the caudal extent of the hippocampus. Because the hippocampus is a key area involved in neuroplasticity, behavior, and cognition, we hypothesize that stress-induced neuroinflammation impairs hippocampal neurogenesis and promotes cognitive and affective behavioral deficits. We show here that RSD caused transient impairments in spatial memory recall that resolved within 28 d. In assessment of neurogenesis, the number of proliferating neural progenitor cells (NPCs) and the number of young, developing neurons were not affected initially after RSD. Nonetheless, the neuronal differentiation of NPCs that proliferated during RSD was significantly impaired when examined 10 and 28 d later. In addition, social avoidance, a measure of depressive-like behavior associated with caudal hippocampal circuitry, persisted 28 d after RSD. Treatment with minocycline during RSD prevented both microglia activation and monocyte recruitment. Inhibition of this neuroinflammatory activation in turn prevented impairments in spatial memory after RSD but did not prevent deficits in neurogenesis nor did it prevent the persistence of social avoidance behavior. These findings show that neuroinflammatory activation after psychosocial stress impairs spatial memory performance independent of deficits in neurogenesis and social avoidance.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRepeated exposure to stress alters the homeostatic environment of the brain, giving rise to various cognitive and mood disorders that impair everyday functioning and overall quality of life. The brain, previously thought of as an immune-privileged organ, is now known to communicate extensively with the peripheral immune system. This brain–body communication plays a significant role in various stress-induced inflammatory conditions, also characterized by psychological impairments. Findings from this study implicate neuroimmune activation rather than impaired neurogenesis in stress-induced cognitive deficits. This idea opens up possibilities for novel immune interventions in the treatment of cognitive and mood disturbances, while also adding to the complexity surrounding the functional implications of adult neurogenesis.
A Molecular Determinant of Subtype-Specific Desensitization in Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors
Authors: Alsaloum Matthew , Kazi Rashek , Gan Quan , Amin Johansen , Wollmuth Lonnie P.
Published: March 2016

AMPA and NMDA receptors are glutamate-gated ion channels that mediate fast excitatory synaptic transmission throughout the nervous system. In the continual presence of glutamate, AMPA and NMDA receptors containing the GluN2A or GluN2B subunit enter into a nonconducting, desensitized state that can impact synaptic responses and glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity. The process of desensitization is dramatically different between subtypes, but the basis for these differences is unknown. We generated an extensive sequence alignment of ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) from diverse animal phyla and identified a highly conserved motif, which we termed the “hydrophobic box,” located at the extracellular interface of transmembrane helices. A single position in the hydrophobic box differed between mammalian AMPA and NMDA receptors. Surprisingly, we find that an NMDAR-to-AMPAR exchange mutation at this position in the rat GluN2A or GluN2B subunit had a dramatic and highly specific effect on NMDAR desensitization, making it AMPAR-like. In contrast, a reverse exchange mutation in AMPARs had minimal effects on desensitization. These experiments highlight differences in desensitization between iGluR subtypes and the highly specific contribution of the GluN2 subunit to this process.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRapid communication between cells in the nervous system depends on ion channels that are directly activated by neurotransmitter molecules. Here, we studied ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), which are ion channels activated by the neurotransmitter glutamate. By comparing the sequences of a vast number of iGluR proteins from diverse animal species, assisted by available structural information, we identified a highly conserved motif. We showed that a single amino acid difference in this motif between mammalian iGluR subtypes has dramatic effects on receptor function. These results have implications in both the evolution of synaptic function, as well as the role of iGluRs in health and disease.
Reconstruction of Spatial Thermal Gradient Encoded in Thermosensory Neuron AFD inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Tsukada Yuki , Yamao Masataka , Naoki Honda , Shimowada Tomoyasu , Ohnishi Noriyuki , Kuhara Atsushi , Ishii Shin , Mori Ikue
Published: March 2016

During navigation, animals process temporal sequences of sensory inputs to evaluate the surrounding environment. Thermotaxis ofCaenorhabditis elegansis a favorable sensory behavior to elucidate how navigating animals process sensory signals from the environment. Sensation and storage of temperature information by a bilaterally symmetric pair of thermosensory neurons, AFD, is essential for the animals to migrate toward the memorized temperature on a thermal gradient. However, the encoding mechanisms of the spatial environment with the temporal AFD activity during navigation remain to be elucidated. Here, we show how the AFD neuron encodes sequences of sensory inputs to perceive spatial thermal environment. We used simultaneous calcium imaging and tracking system for a freely moving animal and characterized the response property of AFD to the thermal stimulus during thermotaxis. We show that AFD neurons respond to shallow temperature increases with intermittent calcium pulses and detect temperature differences with a critical time window of 20 s, which is similar to the timescale of behavioral elements ofC. elegans, such as turning. Convolution of a thermal stimulus and the identified response property successfully reconstructs AFD activity. Conversely, deconvolution of the identified response kernel and AFD activity reconstructs the shallow thermal gradient with migration trajectory, indicating that AFD activity and the migration trajectory are sufficient as the encoded signals for thermal environment. Our study demonstrates bidirectional transformation between environmental thermal information and encoded neural activity.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTDeciphering how information is encoded in the nervous system is an important challenge for understanding the principles of information processing in neural circuits. During navigation behavior, animals transform spatial information to temporal patterns of neural activity. To elucidate how a sensory system achieves this transformation, we focused on a thermosensory neuron inCaenorhabditis eleganscalled AFD, which plays a major role in a sensory behavior. Using tracking and calcium imaging system for freely moving animals, we identified the response property of the AFD. The identified response property enabled us to reconstruct both neural activity from a temperature stimulus and a spatial thermal environment from neural activity. These results shed light on how a sensory system encodes the environment.