bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Locus of Adversative Conjunctions in the Research Articles
Authors: Shirazi Masoumeh A. , Mousavi Nadoushani Seyed Mohammad
Published: March 2017

This study is an endeavor to find how English native and nonnative EFL/ESL (English as foreign language/English as second language) writers use adversative conjunctions to connect ideas together so that texts have both coherence and cohesion. Regarding the problems nonnative writers of EFL face when composing a piece of writing, we attempted a qualitative study through compiling a stack of 200 articles written by the two groups. The research design concerned the content analysis of research articles and descriptive statistics showing the frequency of occurrences of modals in the data. The findings indicated that the number of proper and correction adversatives exceeded those of contrastive and dismissal; the statistically significant difference between two groups lay in the use of proper and correction adversative conjunction, whereas the two groups showed little or no difference in the usage of contrastive or dismissal adversatives. These findings can help material writers, EFL/ESL teachers, and learners to appreciate the significant roles adversative conjunctions play in writing.
Religious and Community Hurdles to Pornography Consumption
Authors: Rasmussen Kyler , Bierman Alex
Published: March 2017

Research demonstrates that attending religious services is associated with lower pornography consumption in emerging adults but is less clear on associations between pornography consumption and additional religious and communal factors. This research presents an innovative approach to this question by using a “hurdle” model to separately examine prevalence and frequency of pornography consumption in a national sample of emerging adults. Analyses show that both private religious activities and community volunteering are associated with lower prevalence of consumption, but only in the context of regular attendance at religious services. Neither factor is associated with the frequency of consumption. Further, these associations are robust to controls for bias due to prior pornography consumption. Initiating and accelerating pornography consumption constitute distinct processes, and research on emerging adults should consider separate influences on each. Further, attendance at religious services forms a crucial context for the efficacy of additional religious and communal factors in deterring consumption.
The Incidental Thyroid Lesion in Parathyroid Disease Management
Authors: Alamoudi Uthman , Levi Eric , Rigby Matthew H. , Taylor S. Mark , Trites Jonathan R. B. , Hart Robert D.
Published: March 2017

Objective

The incidental thyroid lesion is a common finding during general imaging studies. Their management has been the subject of numerous studies and recommendations. Parathyroid disease workup necessitates imaging investigation of the adjacent thyroid gland and therefore provides a unique window to the perioperative management of thyroid incidentaloma. The specific prevalence of incidental thyroid lesions in the context of parathyroid disease is unknown. We seek to investigate its prevalence during parathyroid workup and surgery and to ascertain if there was a change in management of these patients.

Study Design

Five‐year retrospective database review.

Setting

Tertiary care medical center.

Subjects and Methods

The source and indication for referral, preoperative investigation findings, and management of the incidental thyroid lesions were examined. The actual procedure performed and final pathology results were assessed.

Results

A total of 98 patients and 106 operations, including revision surgeries, were identified. There were 21 incidental thyroid lesions (21.4%) detected, whereby 15 patients underwent fine‐needle aspirations and 12 subsequently had diagnostic hemithyroidectomies. This decision was made preoperatively in 5 patients and intraoperatively in 7 patients at the time of parathyroid surgery. Along with other pathologies, there were 7 patients with micropapillary thyroid carcinoma identified.

Conclusions

In our series, the prevalence of incidental thyroid lesion and thyroid malignancy is comparable to the general population. The management of the initial parathyroid disease in our patients was altered by the imaging and cytological findings of these thyroid lesions. This has implications on perioperative counseling of the thyroid and parathyroid disease.
Effect of Combined Hormonal Replacement Therapy on the Aldosterone/Renin Ratio in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf H. , Gordon Richard D. , Ward Gregory , Wolley Martin , McWhinney Brett C. , Ungerer Jacobus P. , Stowasser Michael
Published: March 2017

Background:

Plasma aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR) is the most popular screening test for primary aldosteronism (PA). Because both estrogen and progesterone (including in oral contraceptive agents) affect aldosterone and renin levels, we studied the effects of combined hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) on ARR; renin was measured as both direct renin concentration (DRC) and plasma renin activity (PRA).

Methods:

Fifteen normotensive, healthy postmenopausal women underwent measurement (seated, midmorning) of plasma aldosterone, DRC, PRA, electrolytes, and creatinine and urinary aldosterone, cortisol, electrolytes, and creatinine at baseline and after 2 weeks and 6 weeks of treatment with combined HRT (conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg and medroxyprogesterone 2.5 mg daily).

Results:

Combined HRT was associated with statistically significant increases in aldosterone [median (range): baseline, 150 (85 to 600); 2 weeks, 230 (129 to 790); 6 weeks, 434 (200 to 1200) pmol/L; P < 0.001 (Friedman test)] and PRA [2.3 (1.2 to 4.3), 3.8 (1.4 to 7.0), 5.1 (1.4 to 10.8) ng/mL/h, respectively; P < 0.001] but decreases in DRC [21 (10 to 31), 21 (10 to 39), and 14 (8.0 to 30) mU/L, respectively; P < 0.01], leading to increases in ARR calculated by DRC [7.8 (3.6 to 34.8), 11.4 (5.4 to 48.5), and 30.4 (10.5 to 90.2), respectively; P < 0.001]. The ARR calculated by DRC exceeded the cutoff value (70) in three patients after 6 weeks. There were no significant changes in ARR calculated by PRA [79 (26 to 184), 91 (23 to 166), and 88 (50 to 230), respectively; P = 0.282], plasma electrolytes and creatinine, or any urinary measurements.

Conclusion:

The combined oral HRT used in this study is capable of significantly increasing ARR with a risk of false-positive results during screening for PA but only if DRC (and not PRA) is used to calculate the ratio.
Genetic mutations linked to Parkinson's disease differentially control nucleolar activity in pre-symptomatic mouse models
Authors: Evsyukov V. , Domanskyi A. , Bierhoff H. , Gispert S. , Mustafa R. , Schlaudraff F. , Liss B. , Parlato R.
Published: March 2017

Genetic mutations underlying neurodegenerative disorders impair ribosomal DNA (rDNA) transcription suggesting nucleolar dysfunction as a novel pathomechanism in polyglutamine diseases and in certain forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia. Here, we investigated nucleolar activity in pre-symptomatic digenic models of Parkinson's disease (PD) modeling the multifactorial etiology of this disease.

To this end, we analyzed a novel mouse model mildly overexpressing the mutant human-A53T-alpha-synuclein (hA53T-SNCA/PARK1) in a PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1/PARK6) knock-out background and mutant mice lacking both DJ-1/PARK7 and PINK1/PARK6. We showed that overexpressed human-A53T-alpha-synuclein localizes in the nucleolus. Moreover, these mutants show a progressive reduction of rDNA transcription linked to a reduced mouse lifespan. On the contrary in DJ-1/PINK1 double knock-out (DKO) mice rDNA transcription is preserved. mRNA levels of the nucleolar transcription initiation factor-IA (TIF-IA) decrease in substantia nigra of PD patients. Because loss of TIF-IA, as a tool to mimic nucleolar stress, increases oxidative stress and because DJ-1 and PINK1 mutations result in higher vulnerability to oxidative stress, we further explored the synergism between these PD-associated genes and impaired nucleolar function. By the conditional ablation of TIF-IA gene, we blocked ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis in adult dopaminergic neurons in a DJ-1/PINK1 DKO background. However, the early phenotype of these triple knock-out mice was similar to those mice exclusively lacking TIF-IA. These data sustain a model in which DJ-1/PINK1 loss does not impair nucleolar activity in a pre-symptomatic stage. This is the first study that analyzes nucleolar function in digenic PD models. We can conclude that at least in these models the nucleolus is not as severely disrupted as previously shown in DA neurons from PD patients and neurotoxin-based PD mouse models. The results also show that early increase in rDNA transcription and nucleolar integrity may represent specific homeostatic responses in these digenic pre-symptomatic PD models.
CT angiography for acute gastrointestinal bleeding: what the radiologist needs to know
Authors: Wortman Jeremy R , Landman Wendy , Fulwadhva Urvi P , Viscomi Salvatore G , Sodickson Aaron D
Published: March 2017

Acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common cause of both emergency department visits and hospitalizations in the USA and can have a high morbidity and mortality if not treated rapidly. Imaging is playing an increasing role in both the diagnosis and management of GI bleeding. In particular, CT angiography (CTA) is a promising initial test for acute GI bleeding as it is universally available, can be performed rapidly and may provide diagnostic information to guide management. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of the uses of imaging in the diagnosis and management of acute GI bleeding, with a focus on CTA.
Add-on Policies Under Vertical Differentiation: Why Do Luxury Hotels Charge for Internet While Economy Hotels Do Not?
Authors: Lin Song
Published: March 2017

This paper examines firms’ product policies when they sell an add-on (e.g., Internet service) in addition to a base product (e.g., hotel rooms) under vertical differentiation (e.g., four- versus three-star hotels). I show that the role of an add-on differs; higher-quality firms prefer to sell it as optional to discriminate consumers, and lower-quality firms trade off discrimination and differentiation, trying to lure consumers from higher-quality rivals with a lower-price add-on. Equilibrium policies of lower-quality firms are more sensitive to the cost-to-value ratio of an add-on. If the ratio is sufficiently small, then they sell it to all consumers, potentially explaining why lower-end hotels are more likely than higher-end ones to offer free Internet service. Contrary to consensus in the literature, optional add-ons can intensify price competition over consumers who trade off a higher-quality base product versus a lower-quality base including an add-on. Hence, higher-quality firms are incentivized to commit to bundling, while lower-quality firms prefer to commit to not selling it. Add-ons can further reduce lower-quality firms’ profits if consumers cannot observe the prices, because holding up consumers ex post encourages them to switch to higher-quality rivals, which then become better off. Therefore, lower-quality firms are incentivized to advertise add-on prices, and higher-quality firms are not.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2017.1028 .
Cement-in-cement revision of the femoral stem
Authors: Cnudde P. H. J. , Kärrholm J. , Rolfson O. , Timperley A. J. , Mohaddes M.
Published: March 2017

Aims

Compared with primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), revision surgery can be challenging. The cement-in-cement femoral revision technique involves removing a femoral component from a well-fixed femoral cement mantle and cementing a new stem into the original mantle. This technique is widely used and when carried out for the correct indications, is fast, relatively inexpensive and carries a reduced short-term risk for the patient compared with the alternative of removing well-fixed cement. We report the outcomes of this procedure when two commonly used femoral stems are used.

Patients and Methods

We identified 1179 cement-in-cement stem revisions involving an Exeter or a Lubinus stem reported to the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register (SHAR) between January 1999 and December 2015. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results

Survivorship is reported up to six years and was better in the Exeter group (91% standard deviation (sd) 2.8% versus 85% sd 5.0%) (p = 0.02). There was, however, no significant difference in the survival of the stem and risk of re-revision for any reason (p = 0.58) and for aseptic loosening (p = 0.97), between revisions in which the Exeter stem (94% sd 2.2%; 98% sd 1.6%) was used compared with those in which the Lubinus stem (95% sd 3.2%; 98% sd 2.2%) was used. The database did not allow identification of whether a further revision was indicated for loosening of the acetabular or femoral component or both.

Conclusion

The cement-in-cement technique for revision of the femoral component gave promising results using both designs of stem, six years post-operatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B(4 Supple B):27–32.
The revitalisation of flexor tendon allografts with bone marrow stromal cells and mechanical stimulation
Authors: Wu J. H. , Thoreson A. R. , Gingery A. , An K. N. , Moran S. L. , Amadio P. C. , Zhao C.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The present study describes a novel technique for revitalising allogenic intrasynovial tendons by combining cell-based therapy and mechanical stimulation in an ex vivo canine model.

Methods

Specifically, canine flexor digitorum profundus tendons were used for this study and were divided into the following groups: (1) untreated, unprocessed normal tendon; (2) decellularised tendon; (3) bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC)-seeded tendon; and (4) BMSC-seeded and cyclically stretched tendon. Lateral slits were introduced on the tendon to facilitate cell seeding. Tendons from all four study groups were distracted by a servohydraulic testing machine. Tensile force and displacement data were continuously recorded at a sample rate of 20 Hz until 200 Newton of force was reached. Before testing, the cross-sectional dimensions of each tendon were measured with a digital caliper. Young’s modulus was calculated from the slope of the linear region of the stress-strain curve. The BMSCs were labeled for histological and cell viability evaluation on the decellularized tendon scaffold under a confocal microscope. Gene expression levels of selected extracellular matrix tendon growth factor genes were measured. Results were reported as mean ± SD and data was analyzed with one-way ANOVAs followed by Tukey’s post hoc multiple-comparison test.

Results

We observed no significant difference in cross-sectional area or in Young’s modulus among the four study groups. In addition, histological sections showed that the BMSCs were aligned well and viable on the tendon slices after two-week culture in groups three and four. Expression levels of several extracellular matrix tendon growth factors, including collagen type I, collagen type III, and matrix metalloproteinase were significantly higher in group four than in group three (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Lateral slits introduced into de-cellularised tendon is a promising method of delivery of BMSCs without compromising cell viability and tendon mechanical properties. In addition, mechanical stimulation of a cell-seeded tendon can promote cell proliferation and enhance expression of collagen types I and III in vitro. Cite this article: J. H. Wu, A. R. Thoreson, A. Gingery, K. N. An, S. L. Moran, P. C. Amadio, C. Zhao. The revitalisation of flexor tendon allografts with bone marrow stromal cells and mechanical stimulation: An ex vivo model revitalising flexor tendon allografts. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:179–185. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.63.BJR-2016-0207.R1.
The Taiwanese Association of Family Caregivers: transformation in the long-term care debate for carers
Authors: Wang Frank T.Y. , Chen Chen-Fen
Published: March 2017

Accepting political appointment from the government is a double-edged sword for an advocacy group, which could mean a chance to influence policies or conflicts with other advocacy groups. The Taiwanese Association of Family Caregivers (TAFC) went through such a process of transformation when it was appointed as a member of a formal committee set up by the Taiwanese government in 2009 in order to develop and implement a long term care insurance scheme. We named this process TAFC’s awakening because this opportunity served as a catalyst for TAFC to confirm its identity as a representative of carers, speaking solely from the carer’s perspective.
The examination of spices used in the Ottoman palace cuisine
Authors: Yıkmış Seydi , Sağlam Kübra , Yetim Adem
Published: March 2017

The human being has a vital prescription to eat and drink as much as the day-to-day process. This vital point constitutes the foundation stone of gastronomic tourism. In our globalized world, nations that express or offer their own values have become more successful. Therefore, the culture of Turkish food and nutrition refers as the key of national culture. Therefore, it is very important to examine the characteristics of the Ottoman cuisine to introduce food culture. Traditionally Ottoman cuisine, soups, meat dishes, olive oil vegetables, salads and spices used in desserts are important. Nowadays, people want to learn not only the sense of hunger but also the history of gastronomy (all components depending on cultural and environmental influences). It gives us great opportunities when it is told and applied to the history of that cultural gastronomy. These opportunities are making economic difference by strengthening the functions of gastronomic tourism. Due to the literature obtained in the study, it is thought that the inclusion of the spices in the Ottoman cuisine destinations in Turkey, which has a high potential for gastronomy tourism, will support sustainable development. In the study, was given informations about the characteristics of the spices used in Ottoman cuisine.
KAJIAN HARGA SEWA BANGUNAN KOMERSIAL DI KORIDOR JALAN RAYA KALIMALANG, JAKARTA
Authors: Adhiani Ajeng Laras , Haryanto Ragil
Published: March 2017

Koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang merupakan kawasan yang berkembang pesat dan memiliki harga lahan yang tinggi karena adanya aktivitas komersial. Hal ini menjadikan pemilik lahan lebih memilih untuk menyewakan bangunan yang berada di atas lahan miliknya karena dianggap lebih menguntungkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis harga sewa bangunan di koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang, Jakarta beserta faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhinya terkait aktivitas komersial. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu metode kuantitatif. Temuan studi yang diperoleh adalah perkembangan aktivitas komersial di koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang dipengaruhi oleh faktor lokasi, aksesibilitas, infrastruktur, dan kesesuaian kawasan. Harga sewa bangunan di koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang mulai dari Rp20.000.000 - Rp100.000.000/ tahun. Aktivitas komersial di koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang semakin berkembang. Hal ini dapat dilihat dari semakin meningkatnya permintaan, tetapi tidak diimbangi dengan ketersediaan bangunan yakni hanya 9,04%. Terdapat sembilan faktor yang mempengaruhi harga sewa bangunan di koridor Jalan Raya Kalimalang, yaitu faktor ketersediaan bangunan, tata letak bangunan, lokasi, asal konsumen, kesesuaian koridor, luas bangunan, usia bangunan, kondisi bangunan, dan faktor jangka waktu sewa.
Lipid and lipoprotein profile changes in newborn calves in response to the perinatal period
Authors: Arfuso Francesca , Fazio Francesco , Panzera Michele , Giannetto Claudia , Di Pietro Simona , Giudice Elisabetta , Piccione Giuseppe
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the dynamic changes of serum lipid and lipoprotein profiles in 6 newborn calves during the first five days of life. From each calve blood sampling was performed daily starting from day 1 (after colostrum intake) until day 5 of life. Blood samples collected from each animal were tested for serum total lipids, phospholipids, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), triglycerides, very low density lipoproteins (VLDLs), total cholesterol (Total-Chol), high density lipoproteins (HDLs) and low density lipoproteins (LDLs). One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to determine the effect of days of life on the studied parameters in calves. A statistically significant effect of days of life was found on all serum lipid and lipoprotein indices measured in calves with the exception of NEFAs that showed unchanged values throughout the monitoring period. The changes observed in calves during the early postnatal period are most likely due to the transition in energy sources, from a maternal nutrient supply comprising mainly carbohydrates and amino acids to the colostrum and milk diet rich in fat.
Genomic variation across cervid species in respect to the estimation of red deer diversity
Authors: Kasarda Radovan , Moravčíková Nina , Trakovická Anna , Krupová Zuzana , Ondrej Kadlečík
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the genetic variations and relationships across evolutionary related cervid species in order to estimate the genetic diversity of the Red deer population that inhabits the forest area in the south-western part of Slovakia. The study was based on the application of cross-species SNP genotyping. The genomic data were obtained from a total of 86 individuals representing six genera (Axis,Dama,Cervus,Alces,Rangifer, andOdocoileus) using Illumina BovineSNP50 BeadChip. From 38.85% of successfully genotyped loci up to 1,532 SNPs showed polymorphism and were informative for subsequent analyses of the diversity and interspecific genetic relationships. Generally, a good level of observed heterozygosity was found across all species. The value of FIS(0.23±0.13) signalised the increase of a homozygous proportion within them. The application of molecular variance analysis to the hierarchical population structure showed that most of the variation was conserved within separate species (96%). The performed diversity analysis of Slovak Red deer population and comparative analysis of their phylogenic relationships among subspecies from genusCervusdid not identify a remarkable loss of genetic variability. Also, were not identified any degree of admixture that could be due to the historical background of deer farming in Slovakia or reintroduction and hybridisation by other species from genusCervus(C. canadensis, andC. nippon) which are the major risk of loss of autochthonous Red deer populations in many areas of Central Europe. The analysis of individual’s ancestry showed consistent results with patterns of evaluated group differentiations which means low migration rates among all species.
Relationship between the indexes of insulin resistance and metabolic status in dairy cows during early lactation
Authors: Cincović Marko , Kirovski Danijela , Vujanac Ivan , Belić Branislava , Djoković Radojica
Published: March 2017

Insulin resistance is a phenomenon which accompanies the ongoing metabolic adaptation in cows during early lactation. The aim of our study was to determine the linear correlations of HOMA (Homeostatic Model Assessment), QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) and RQUICKI (Revised Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) indexes of insulin resistance with the metabolic status of cows (concentration of hormones, metabolites and body condition score). The experiment included 40 Holstein-Frisian cows in the first week after calving. Indexes of insulin resistance valued: 18.68±5.43 (HOMA), 0.39±0.06 (QUICKI) and 0.45±0.06 (RQUICKI). Linear correlations were examined by testing the coefficient of correlation (r), determination (r2,%) and regression parameter beta (b) in linear equation. A negative correlation was found between HOMA and IGF-I (insulin growth factor I) (r=−0.51, r2=25.0, b=−1.1257, p<0.01). HOMA showed a positive correlation with BHB (betahidroxybutyrate) (r=0.48, r2=23.2, b=0.0234, p<0.01). A positive correlation was found between QUICKI and IGF-I (r=0.30, r2=10.0 b=46.7900, p<0.05) and cholesterol (r=0.44, r2=18.3, b=1.9021, p<0.01). In contrast, QUICKI and BHB (r=0.51, r2=27.1, b=−1.7241, p<0.01), just like QUICKI and BCS (r=0.46, r2=20.9, b=−2.424, p<0.01), showed a negative correlation. RQUICKI showed positive correlations with IGF-I (r=0.48, r2=22.8, b=28.1230, p<0.01), T4 (r=0.47, r2=22.1, b=87.142, p<0.01) and triglycerides (r=0.36, r2=13, b=0.0407, p<0.05) but negative correlations with cortisol (r=−0.36, r2=13.0, b=−9.0332, p<0.05), STH (somatotropic hormone) (r=−0.42, r2=17.3, b=−5.4976, p<0.01), BHB (r=−0.62, r2=38.3, b=−1.1872, p<0.01), total bilirubin (r=−0.58, r2=33.7, b=−7.131, p<0.01) and BCS (body condition score) (r=−0.6, r2=36.4, b=−1.8347, p<0.01). In conclusion, indexes of insulin resistance may be used to evaluate the metabolic status of cows in early lactation. RQUICKI might be the most appropriate predictor of metabolic status due to its linear relationship with most of the parameters included in homeorhetic process.
Emergency Braking of a Mine Hoist in the Context of the Braking System Selection
Authors: Wolny Stanisław
Published: March 2017

The paper addresses the selected aspects of the dynamic behaviour of mine hoists during the emergency braking phase. Basing on the model of the hoist and supported by theoretical backgrounds provided by the author (Wolny, 2016), analytical formulas are derived to determine the parameters of the braking system such that during an emergency braking it should guarantee that:

–

the maximal loading of the hoisting ropes should not exceed the rope breaking force,

–

deceleration of the conveyances being stopped should not exceed the admissible levels

Results of the dynamic analysis of the mine hoist behaviour during an emergency braking phase summarised in this study can be utilised to support the design of conveyance and rope attachments by the fatigue endurance methods, with an aim to adapt it to the specified operational parameters of the hoisting installation (Eurokod 3).
Effect of Rock Properties on ROP Modeling Using Statistical and Intelligent Methods: A Case Study of an Oil Well in Southwest of Iran
Authors: Bezminabadi Sina Norouzi , Ramezanzadeh Ahmad , Esmaeil Jalali Seyed-Mohammad , Tokhmechi Behzad , Roustaei Abbas
Published: March 2017

Rate of penetration (ROP) is one of the key indicators of drilling operation performance. The estimation of ROP in drilling engineering is very important in terms of more accurate assessment of drilling time which affects operation costs. Hence, estimation of a ROP model using operational and environmental parameters is crucial. For this purpose, firstly physical and mechanical properties of rock were derived from well logs. Correlation between the pair data were determined to find influential parameters on ROP. A new ROP model has been developed in one of the Azadegan oil field wells in southwest of Iran. The model has been simulated using Multiple Nonlinear Regression (MNR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). By adding the rock properties, the estimation of the models were precisely improved. The results of simulation using MNR and ANN methods showed correlation coefficients of 0.62 and 0.87, respectively. It was concluded that the performance of ANN model in ROP prediction is fairly better than MNR method.
Modelling of Powered Roof Support Cooperation with the Floor of Low Bearing Capacity in the aspect of Shaping the Section Design
Authors: Markowicz Józef , Rajwa Sylwester , Szweda Stanisław
Published: March 2017

The problem of cooperation of powered roof support with the floor in the aspect of shaping its design is presented. From the analysis of the simplifying assumptions considered so far in the methods for determination of roof support’s base pressure on the floor, it results that they are not satisfied in the case of bases of the catamaran type, commonly used in currently manufactured roof supports. Model of cooperation of the base lying on the floor, prepared by the finite elements method is described and the results of computer simulation of the base action on the floor are given. Considering the results of numerical analyses, the factors influencing the pressure distribution of the base on the floor as well as its maximal value, have been identified.
Variability Qualitative Phase Composition of the Different Grain Classes of the Calcareous Fly Ashes
Authors: Strzałkowska Ewa
Published: March 2017

The results of studies of the phases composition of the different grain classes of calcareous fly ash were presented in this article. It was necessary to use three analytical methods: thermal, X-ray and microscopic to identify properly additional mineral phases in different grain classes of fly ash. These mineral phases were not determined during analysis of the sample which was not devided into grain classes. The minerals: quartz, anhydrite, calcite, bassanite, hannebahite hematite, magnetite, gehlenite, anorthite and CaO were identified. The thickest grain class of the tested ash characterized by a higher content of unburned fragments of coal. The presence of coal grains has negative influence at any further applications of the ash.
Suicidal overkill - three case reports
Authors: Popa M. , Rebeleanu C.
Published: March 2017

All around the globe suicide is an increasing health problem because of the devastating effects that the loss of lives it leaves behind. There are instances when a suicide attempt is but a warning signal, a kind of cry for help, but in some cases its drastic character excludes any doubt about its annihilative aim. There are such situations in which the individuals opting for suicide try to limit the risk of failing in such act to the minimum.

This article presents three suicide cases autopsied at the Bistrita-Nasaud County Forensic Division tht share the fact that they use multiple, converging methods of self-destruction: the first case is that of an elderly man who, after ingesting a significant amount of thiocarbamide pesticides, hangs himself, the second case is that of a policeman in the rural area who, upon an acute alcohol intoxication, shoots himself six bullets in the stomach with the pistol provided, and the third case is of an unknown male citizen who, after sheltering under a bridge, drinks about 600 ml of petrol, then splashed himself with petrol and sets himself on fire.
Therapeutical Management of the Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Obada B. , Iliescu Madalina , Serban Al O. , Alecu-Silvana Crina , Zekra M.
Published: March 2017

The study was aimed to identify the role of surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures, its functional outcome and complications. Demographic data for the patients and details of current clinical and radiological follow-up findings were obtained to assess range of motion, clinical stability, alignment of the knee, and posttraumatic arthrosis (Kellgren/Lawrence score). 64 cases of tibial plateau fractures treated by different surgical methods and variuos implants type were studied from 2013 to 2015 and followed-up for minimum period of 6 months. The systematisation of the casuitry was made using Schatzker and AO classifications. The treatment methods consist of: percutaneous cannulated cancellous screws, ORIF with buttress plate with or without bone grafting, locking or nonlocking plates, external fixator. As complications we found: redepression 4 case, malunion 2 cases, knee stiffness 9, wound dehiscence in 1 cases and non-union or infection in none of our cases. The average flexion of the injured knee was significantly lower in comparison with the contralateral side (124.9°/135.2°). Knee stability did not differ statistically significantly. There were no signs of posttraumatic arthrosis in 45% of cases, mild signs in 30%, clear signs in 18%, and severe signs in 7%. As conclusion we found that surgical management of tibial plateau fractures will give excellent anatomical reduction and rigid fixation to restore articular congruity, facilitate early motion and reduce arthrosis risk and hence to achieve optimal knee function. The choice of optimal surgical methods, proper approach and implant is made in relation to fracture type according Schatzker and AO classification.
“Bare Metal” Stent Placement Complications: Interventional Treatment
Authors: Nita D. , Parepa Irinel Raluca , Mazilu Laura , Suceveanu Andra-Iulia , Matei Luminita , Tuta Liliana-Ana
Published: March 2017

The rapid implementation of stents in standard practice and expansion of the indication for their utilization also introduced a new problem: in-stent restenosis. Management of patients with restenosis after stent implantation is still considered an important clinical problem. Although balloon angioplasty is still one of the prefered strategies that provide satisfactory results and a low incidence of complication, repeat stenting with “drug eluting” stents or “drug balloon” angioplasty become a very atractive methods of treatment for selected lesions and patients.
Interactions of daylength, temperature and nutrients affect thresholds for life stage transitions in the kelp Laminaria digitata (Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Martins Neusa , Tanttu Heidi , Pearson Gareth A. , Serrão Ester A. , Bartsch Inka
Published: March 2017

Kelp beds worldwide are under pressure from ongoing climate and environmental change. Along European coastlines increases in seawater temperature and changes in nutrient conditions occur where upwelling events are disrupted and also along eutrophicated coasts. In addition, seaweed responses to change may interact with seasonal daylength cycles. We performed a factorial experiment to examine the combined effects of seawater temperatures, nutrient regimes and photoperiod (long and short days) in order to better understand how latitudinal or seasonal differences in daylengths affect the sensitivity of transient microscopic kelp stages of
Community livelihood activities as key determinants for community based conservation of wetlands in Uganda
Authors: Barakagira Alex , de Wit Anton H.
Published: March 2017

Community-based Conservation (CBC) has been regarded as one of the most appropriate approaches to the sustainable utilization and conservation of natural resources. Wetlands are believed to provide attributes, functions, and services that positively affect the daily livelihoods of members of the local community. Bearing in mind the incentives wetlands provide, if community members are not involved in the activities aimed at the management and conservation of wetlands then they result in being degraded. This study was initiated to explore how community livelihood activities influence CBC of wetlands in Uganda. A cross-sectional research design was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. A questionnaire survey was conducted among four hundred households to collect information concerning community livelihood activities taking place in wetlands. Additionally, more information was obtained from National Environment Management Authority, and Wetlands Management Department staff using another non-structured questionnaire. Key informant interviews and direct observations were also used to collect data. Overall, the gathering of materials for building and crafts, fuel wood collection, clay and sand mining and practicing agriculture in wetlands are some of the reasons that have caused wetland degradation. Low levels of awareness, unclear ownership of wetlands and inadequate funding has not enabled Agencies responsible for implementing the Policies and Laws aimed for protecting and conserving wetlands from being degraded. Therefore, these above mentioned problems must be addressed in order for wetland resources to be sustainably utilized and conserved by members of the local community.
Is China’s target of a 40-45% reduction in carbon dioxide emission plausible?
Authors: Bosupeng Mpho
Published: March 2017

In the early days of industrialisation, economists believed that the ramifications of economic growth will far outweigh the potential damage to the environment. Today the concern is the rising magnitude of emissions. Many economies are under immense pressure to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon taxation and absorption technologies seem to be the main mechanisms controlling emissions in different nations. China proposed her target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 40-45% by 2025. The purpose of this study is to determine if China’s ambition of reducing its carbon dioxide emissions is feasible. This investigation also examines the potential effects of China's emissions on the economic growth of other countries. The study demonstrates that China’s target may not only reduce her output, but may also adversely affect the economic growth of others. This article further reveals that unemployment in China is likely to soar during the reduction in emissions and energy consumption. Additionally, this paper evaluates the effects of green taxation on carbon dioxide emissions. In conclusion, there is a possibility that China may reach her emissions target by 2025. However, the country faces a dilemma between economic growth and environmental preservation. It is recommended that China should explore techniques which will reduce emissions but not impinge negatively on economic growth.
Thermal Instability in a Layer of Couple Stress Nanofluid Saturated Porous Medium
Authors: Chand Ramesh , Rana G. C. , Yadav Dhananjay
Published: March 2017

Thermal instability in a horizontal layer of Couple-stress nanofluid in a porous medium is investigated. Darcy model is used for porous medium. The model used for nanofluid incorporates the effect of Brownian diffusion and thermophoresis. The flux of volume fraction of nanoparticle is taken to be zero on the isothermal boundaries. Normal mode analysis and perturbation method is employed to solve the eigenvalue problem with the Rayleigh number as eigenvalue. Oscillatory convection cannot occur for the problem. The effects of Couple-stress parameter, Lewis number, modified diffusivity ratio, concentration Rayleigh number and porosity on stationary convection are shown both analytically and graphically.
Inductor Machines with Longitudinally-Transversal Comb-Wise Tooth Zone
Authors: Serebryakov A. , Levin N. , Kamolins E. , Mileiko M.
Published: March 2017

The method considered in the present paper concerns the operational efficiency of the inductor electric machine, which can be improved by placing on the stator and rotor teeth the combs combined from differently shaped teeth and slots. The use on the inductor electric machine stator and rotor teeth of combs as a combination of differently shaped hills (teeth) and valleys (slots) allows raising the specific power of the machine. This effect is determined by the chosen type of a comb element as well as by technological possibilities of the manufacturer. The proposed method could be used moderately in the inductor machines with longitudinally-transversal combing.
The Analysis of Non-Newtonian Vibro-Impact Processes in Tube Constructions and Systems with Parallel Impact Pairs
Authors: Krupenin V. L. , Viba J.
Published: March 2017

The present paper studies the problems of creation of techniques for the analysis of vibro-impact processes in systems with a large number of impact pairs. The used method of singularisation allows refusing from the ideas of the momentary impact and considering interaction hypotheses, which are more realistic than Newtonian ones. We consider the features of synchronous modes of movements of the clap type in systems with parallel impact elements as well as in tubes colliding with intermediate supports. Such modes are most dangerous in terms of the vibration wear of structural elements. The examples of calculation are given for specific designs.
Distributional extensions ofCarollia castaneaandMicronycteris minutafrom Guatemala, Central America
Authors: Pérez-Consuegra Sergio G. , Patton James L. , Vázquez-Domínguez Ella , López Jorge E. , Barahona Raiza , Ordóñez-Sayle Estefany J. , Nicolle José Alejandro
Published: March 2017

Field expeditions in 2011 that inventoried the terrestrial vertebrate fauna of two wildlife protected areas in the tropical Caribbean of Guatemala have produced the first confirmed records of two bats for the country: the white-bellied big-eared bat,Micronycteris(Schizonycteris)minuta(Gervais 1856) and the Chesnut short-tailed batCarollia castaneaH. Allen, 1890, both of neotropical distribution and with their current northern limit at Lancetilla, Honduras. The record ofM. minutaat Sierra de Caral, Guatemala extends the range of this species 137 km to the west, and the record ofC.castaneaat Cerro San Gil extends its range 147 km to the west.
Benchmarking Firm-level Resources, Capabilities, and Postures Driving Export Performance of SMEs
Authors: Celec Robert , Globocnik Dietfried
Published: March 2017

This paper aimed to identify success factors of export performance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Drawing on the resource-based view, the dynamic capability view, and international entrepreneurship theory, we extracted relevant assets, capabilities, and postures at the firm level. An extended benchmarking method was applied to empirically test the proposed success factors with a cross-sectional sample of 99 Slovenian SMEs. The results highlight the crucial role of management competence, financial and human resources, market orientation, negotiation flexibility, and a proactive and risk-taking posture to achieve superior export performance.
An Early Inupiaq Occupation: Observations on a Thule House From Cape Espenberg, Alaska
Authors: Norman Lauren E. Y. , Friesen T. Max , Alix Claire , O’Rourke Michael J. E. , Mason Owen K.
Published: March 2017

This paper describes and interprets a well-preserved early Thule semi-subterranean dwelling from Cape Espenberg, Alaska. The house architecture is similar in many respects to other early Thule dwellings with a sub-rectangular main room, long sunken entrance tunnel, and associated kitchen area. However, the presence of narrow side benches and associated flooring differences adds significantly to the variability present in Thule house form. Radiocarbon dates indicate occupations spanning 1300 to 1450 cal CE. Wood analysis suggests that the house underwent at least one rebuilding episode, which seems to have extended the house occupation into the early 15th century. People acquired mostly small seals for their subsistence, but supplemented their diets in the spring and fall with migrating birds, fish, terrestrial mammals, and other marine mammals. This house represents a fairly typical early Thule coastal winter occupation, but careful excavation of a well-preserved house reveals interesting details in house form, wood use, and subsistence patterns.
Triblock copolymers of styrene and sodium methacrylate as smart materials: synthesis and rheological characterization
Authors: Meijerink Marc , Mastrigt Frank van , Franken Linda E. , Stuart Marc C. A. , Picchioni Francesco , Raffa Patrizio
Published: March 2017

Well-defined amphiphilic triblock poly(sodium methacrylate)-polystyrene-poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMAA-b-PS-b-PMAA) copolymers characterized by a different length of either the hydrophilic or the hydrophobic block have been synthesized by ATRP. In solution the micelle-like aggregates consist of a collapsed PS core surrounded by stretched charged PMAA chains. The micelles are kinetically ‘frozen’ and as a consequence the triblock copolymers do not show a significant surface activity. The hydrophilic block length has a major influence on the rheology, the shortest PMAA blocks yielding the strongest gels (at the same total weight concentration). The hydrophobic block length has only a minor influence until a certain threshold, below which the hydrophobic interactions are too weak resulting in weak gels. A mathematical model is used to describe the micelle radius and the results were in good agreement with the experimentally found radius in transmission electron microscopy. The influences of the ionic strength, pH and temperature on the rheology has also been investigated, showing the potential of these polymers as smart hydrogels. The change in conformation of the hydrophilic corona from the collapsed state to the stretched state by changing the pH was quantified with zeta-potential measurements. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic investigation of this kind of triblock copolymers in terms of their rheological behavior in water.
Spontaneous resolution of large non-traumatic bilateral acute-on-chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Adam D. , Iftimie D. , Burduşa Gina , Moisescu Cristiana
Published: March 2017

Background and importance: Chronic subdural hematomas are a frequently encountered neurosurgical pathology, especially in the elderly. They often require surgical evacuation, but recent studies have shown good results with conservative treatment in selected cases.

Clinical presentation: We report the case of a 72-year old patient that developed large, non-traumatic, bilateral, acute-on-chronic subdural hematoma after repeated abdominal surgery for appendicular carcinoma. He presented an abdominal wound infection and good neurological status (GCS score of 14 points), factors that indicated the delay of surgical intervention. Subsequent clinical and radiological improvement forestalled the operation altogether and he presented complete spontaneous resolution of subdural hematomas at only 5 months after diagnosis.

Conclusion: Although surgical treatment is performed in the majority of chronic subdural hematomas, in clinically and radiologically selected cases, the operation can be avoided. The hematoma can present resolution, either spontaneously or with the help of conservative treatment.
Endovascular coil oclusion of spontaneous ruptured vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm
Authors: Chiriac A. , Ion Georgian , Dobrin N. , Faiyad Z. , Poeata I.
Published: March 2017

Spontaneous dissecting aneurysm of vertebral artery is known as a rare pathological condition causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage in the posterior circulation. The treatment of ruptured vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms is still an important subject of debates in the literature. We present a particular case of ruptured vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms that was treated by only endovascular Guglielmi detachable coils occlusion. A brief review of technical possibilities of treatment of these types of vascular lesions, with their advantages and disadvantages are discussed.
Unusual aggressive and rapidly growing glioblastoma multiforme – case presentation
Authors: Dabija M. , Eva L. , Poeata I. , Paiu Alina , Dorobat V. , Munteanu Raluca
Published: March 2017

Glioblastoma multiform is one of the most rapidly progressing cerebral tumors and the most aggressive one in our neurosurgical experience. We present the case of a 45 year old patient with very aggressive type of tumor who had come to our service for the following: intense headache, confusion, right hemiparesis installed approximately one month before. IRM scan shows up the presence of a large tumoral mass without a precise border in the left temporal-parietal region which had extended all the way down to the thalamus. The planned intervention used 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) for the precise removal of the tumor mass, suboptimal because of the risk of lesioning the motor tracts – indicated by the intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring. After surgery the outcome was good with the partial regression of the motor deficit, but only after 3 weeks due to the unexpected tumor growth the neurological status started to decay and even worsened. The patient underwent surgery again with the partial remission of the symptoms although following imagistic controls showed up fast tumor growth once more. He was recommended to oncology service for the beginning of radiotherapy. We consider the evolution and invasion of this tumor in only a 3 weeks period being impressive.