bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of n-th order linear time – varying systems
Authors: Piwowar Anna , Walczak Janusz
Published: June 2015

Effective algorithms of constructing models of generalized parametric sections of the n-th order consisting of cascade and parallel elementary LTV section connections are presented in this paper. Moreover, the methods of impulse responses determination have been shown
The Political Economy of the Implementation of the Bankruptcy Law of China
Authors: Zuofa Wang
Published: June 2015

The implementation of the bankruptcy law of China deviates much from the expectation of the legislature. This article draws on political economy analysis, especially the interest group approach, to provide an explanation of the causes of the deviation and predict what the future of the modification and reform of the law might be. This article also describes the China context in using public choice theory to explain legal issues.
Continuous Local Analgesia in Postoperative Treatment of Large Incisional Hernias – Preliminary Results
Authors: Gherghinescu M. , Molnar C. , Popa D. , Russu C. , Copotoiu C.
Published: June 2015

Background: The incisional hernias are frequent complications after laparotomy. Extended subcutaneous tissue dissection is often necessary for the treatment of large incisional hernias, and this procedure is frequently followed by a high intensity pain in the postoperative period. The aim of this study was to assess the postoperative patient comfort without using major analgesics.

Material and method: we present the preliminary results of an ongoing study from Surgery Clinic 1 of Emergency Clinical County Hospital of Târgu Mures, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Târgu Mures. The study comprises in the intraoperative insertion of a subcutaneous catheter (Pajunk InfiltraLong) placed on lay, through which we administered continuously Ropivacaine 0,5%.

Results: Ten patients have been included in the study by now. For 5 of the patients the wound infiltration was started with 7 ml/h in the first 6 postoperative hours, after which the rate decreased to 5 ml/h until the end of the 72 hours, when the catheter was removed. For 2 patients the wound infiltration was started with 10ml/h in the first 6 postoperative hours, after which the rate decreased to 7 ml/h in the first day, followed by 5 ml/h for the next two days. Two patients needed a minor analgesic in the immediate postoperative period and one patient needed major analgesia in the first 24 hours.

Conclusions: By using this method, postoperative analgesia can be achieved without using major systemic analgesics and a superior patient comfort can be achieved simply by adjusting the infusion rate
Redescription and phylogenetic relationships of the rare Lyperosomum sarothrurae Baer, 1959 (Digenea: Dicrocoeliidae)
Authors: Hildebrand Joanna , Pulis Eric E. , Tkach Vasyl. V.
Published: June 2015

Lyperosomum sarothrurae Baer, 1959 is a rare dicrocoeliid described based on a single specimen from Belgian Congo, now Democratic Republic of the Congo, and never reported again. The original description lacked several important details of the species morphology. This work provides morphological redescription of Lyp. sarothrurae based on specimens from Kibale National Park, Uganda which is about 200 kilometres from the type locality. Results of re-examination of the holotype are also provided. Morphology of Lyp. sarothrurae shows some characteristics intermediate between those of the species rich genus Lyperosomum Looss, 1899 and Megacetabulum Oshmarin, 1964 that includes only 3 species. Due to the lack of clear morphological differences between the two genera, Megacetabulum is considered here as a junior synonym of Lyperosomum. Molecular phylogenetic analysis including Lyp. sarothrurae and all currently available partial sequences of the nuclear ribosomal 28S RNA gene of dicrocoeliid species is also included and its results are discussed
A new Cosmocercoides species (Nematoda: Cosmocercidae), C. tonkinensis n. sp., in the scale-bellied tree lizard (Acanthosaura lepidogaster) from Vietnam
Authors: Tran Binh Thi , Sato Hiroshi , Luc Pham Van
Published: June 2015

A new cosmocercid nematode species, Cosmocercoides tonkinensis n. sp., is described from the scale-bellied tree lizard (Acanthosaura lepidogaster) in the northern and central parts of Vietnam. The new species is characterized by medium-sized male worms (4.2-5.1 mm in length and 0.34-0.37 mm in width) relative to known members of the genus, with lateral alae, two sharply pointed spicules of equal length (0.22-0.26 mm in length), a gubernaculum (0.113-0.122 mm in length), 16 or 17 pairs of caudal rosettes, and the presence of somatic papillae. Female worms are slightly larger than male worms (5.3-5.5 mm in length and 0.32-0.42 mm in width), with the vulva situated at 3/5 from the anterior end, and elliptical embryonated eggs, 0.064- 0.084 mm long by 0.040-0.048 mm wide. From 19 recorded species of the genus, the morphology of C. tonkinensis n. sp. is closest to C. multipapillata, C. bufonis, and C. pulcher reported from toads and frogs in East Asia. The present new species is differentiated from them by the number of caudal rosettes, tail length relative to body length, presence of somatic papillae and lateral alae, and embryonated eggs. Furthermore, after C. variabilis in North America and C. sauria in Brazil, this new species is only the third species to be recorded from a reptilian host. The 18S ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) of the new species is almost identical to that of C. dukae infecting land snails and slugs in North America. Between the present new species and C. pulcher from a toad (Bufo japonicus) in Japan, remarkably fewer nucleotide changes were noticed in the 18S to 28S rDNA including the internal transcribed spacer regions. The molecular phylogenetic position of the genus Cosmocercoides is briefly discussed.
Ophthalmology hospital wards contamination to pathogenic free living Amoebae in Iran
Authors: Lasjerdi Zohreh , Niyyati Maryam , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob , Haghighi Ali , Taghipour Niloofar
Published: June 2015

The present study was conducted to determine the occurrence of potentially pathogenic free-living amoeba in ophthalmology wards in reference hospitals in Iran. Since an increasing number of Acanthamoeba Keratitis cases after eye surgery and eye trauma have been recently observed in this country, it could be possible that the disinfection procedures undertaken in the clinical setting may not have a good hygiene and disinfection procedures, hence the aim of this study. Therefore, 42 dust and biofilm samples were collected from different areas of ophthalmology wards and checked for the presence of FLA using morphological criteria, PCR based analysis and DNA sequencing. Of the 42 samples from dust and biofilm sources, 18(42.86%) isolates were found to contain FLA and 12(92.3%) isolates belonged to Acanthamoeba T4 genotype. Isolation of the pathogenic genotype T4 from medical instruments, including slit lamp in corneal wards, may be a threat for patients undergoing eye surgery in these wards. Other FLA isolated in this study included Acanthamoeba genotype T5, Vahlkampfia sp, Naegleria australiensis, Vermamoeba vermiformis and Echinamoeba exudans. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the presence of potentially pathogenic FLA in ophthalmology wards in Iran. Improved disinfection methods and monitoring of hospitals ward are thus necessary in this area in order to minimize the risk of infection in patients.
Supplementary data of Henneguya leporinicola (Myxozoa, Myxosporea) a parasite of Leporinus macrocephalus from fish farms in the state of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Capodifoglio Kassia Roberta Hygino , Adriano Edson Aparecido , Silva Marcia Ramos Monteiro da , Maia Antônio Augusto Mendes
Published: June 2015

Henneguya leporinicola is a parasite of the gill filament of Leporinus macrocephalus, a characiform fish belonging to the Anostomidae family, which is of major economic importance. Despite the damage it causes in fish, little is known about this parasite. Therefore, a study was undertaken with fourteen specimens of L. macrocephalus taken from fish farms in the state of Sao Paulo. The fish were collected and examined searching for lesions and/or myxosporean plasmodia. One of the specimens (7.14%) contained white elongated plasmodia in the gill filament. The mature spores had elongated bodies with polar capsules of equal size and a caudal length greater than body length. Morphological characteristics identified the parasite as H. leporinicola. Molecular analysis of the 18S rDNA sequence resulted in a 1954 bp, demonstrating significant genetic differences with previously described species of Henneguya/Myxobolus. Phylogenetic analysis comparing the 18S rDNA sequence of H. leporinicola with other species, previously described in South America, and the 20 closest species as indicated by BLASTn Max Score showed H. leporinicola as a basal branch of a subclade composed by Henneguya spp. parasite of characiform hosts.
A new species of Isospora (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from eastern coachwhip, Coluber flagellum flagellum (Reptilia: Ophidia) from Oklahoma
Authors: McAllister Chris T. , Seville R. Scott , Connior Matthew B.
Published: June 2015

Between June 2013 and August 2014, four eastern coachwhips, Coluber flagellum flagellum were collected from Arkansas (n = 2) and Oklahoma (n = 2) and their faeces examined for coccidian parasites. One (25%) harboured an isosporan that we describe here as new. Oocysts of Isospora kiamichiensis sp. n. were spheroidal to subspheroidal with a uni-layered wall and measured (length × width, L × W) 25.0 × 22.2 μm, with an L/W ratio of 1.1. A micropyle, oocyst residuum and polar granule were absent. Sporocysts were ovoidal, 13.9 × 9.4 μm, with an L/W ratio of 1.5. A pronounced, button-like Stieda body was present as well as a substieda body. A sporocyst residuum was present as dispersed granules. This is the first isosporan and fourth coccidian reported from eastern coachwhip snakes. In addition, a single oocyst of an unknown choleoeimerian was recovered from this host.
Metazoan parasite infracommunities of Mycteroperca bonaci (Poey, 1960) (Pisces: Epinephelidae) in reef and coastal environments off the coast of Yucatán, México
Authors: Espínola-Novelo Juan F. , González-Salas Carlos , Guillén-Hernández Sergio , MacKenzie Ken
Published: June 2015

The black grouper Mycteroperca bonaci is a commercially important fish off the coast of Yucatan, Mexico. To investigate possible differences between parasite communities in two different environments, 60 fish were collected from two areas during 2010 and 2011 and examined for parasites. The fish were classified into two age groups, in each of which the parameters of parasitic infection - prevalence, abundance and intensity - were determined. Parasite faunas were further described at the infracommunity level. Using both univariate (PERMANOVA) and multivariate statistical methods, the values of richness, abundance, diversity and Brillouin evenness as well as the Index values of Bray-Curtis and Jaccard for similarity were calculated and compared. The results of these tests and of CAP discriminant analyses at the two sites showed the existence of two distinct parasite communities. The parasite taxa mainly responsible for the differences were the digeneans Dollfustrema sp., Prosorhynchus spp., Lepidapedoides epinepheli and Hamacreadium mutabile, and the nematode Philometra salgadoi. The potential for some of these parasites to be used as biological tags for stock identification of M. bonaci is discussed.
Two new picobiin mite species (Acari: Cheyletoidea: Syringophilidae) parasitizing passerine birds in Guyana
Authors: Glowska Eliza , Laniecka Izabella , Milensky Christopher M.
Published: June 2015

Two new picobiin mite species (Cheyletoidea: Syringophilidae) are described from passeriform birds in Guyana, Rafapicobia automoli sp. nov. parasitizing two furnariid species Automolus ochrolaemus (Tschudi) (type host) and Automolus rufipileatus (Pelzeln) (Passeriformes: Furnariidae) and Neopicobia herbicolae sp. nov. from Emberizoides herbicola (Vieillot) (Thraupidae). Additionally, Picumnus exilis (Lichtenstein) (Piciformes: Picidae) is recorded as a new host species for Neopicobia hepburni Glowska et Laniecka, 2014
Chimeric DNA vaccines encoding Eimeria acervulina macrophage migration inhibitory factor (E.MIF) induce partial protection against experimental Eimeria infection
Authors: Song Xiaokai , Zhang Ruirui , Xu Lixin , Yan Ruofeng , Li Xiangrui
Published: June 2015

Chimeric DNA vaccines co-expressing Eimeria acervulina macrophage migration inhibitory factor (E.MIF) and chicken IL-2 (IL-2) or interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were constructed and their efficacies against E. acervulina were evaluated. The open reading frame (ORF) of E.MIF was cloned from E. acervulina merozoites and subcloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pVAX1 with chicken cytokine gene IFN-γ or IL-2 to construct the DNA vaccines pVAX-E.MIF-IFN-γ, pVAX-E.MIF-IL-2 and pVAX-E.MIF. The in vivo transfection of the target genes was detected by use of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot. Immunizations were carried out by vaccinating chickens twice with a dose rate of 100 μg intramuscularly. Seven days post second immunization, all chickens except the unchallenged control group were challenged orally with 1 × 105 sporulated oocysts of E. acervulina. Seven days later, the duodenum was collected. The results showed that the target genes were expressed effectively in vivo. DNA vaccines and the recombinant E.MIF protein could alleviate body weight loss and duodenal lesions significantly compared to the control groups. Furthermore, pVAX-E.MIF-IL-2 and pVAX-E.MIF-IFN-γ induced anticoccidial indexs (ACIs) of 179.12 and 170, respectively, which were significantly higher than that of pVAX-E.MIF (ACI = 162.31). Our results demonstrated that E.MIF is a potential vaccine candidate against E. acervulina and chicken IFN-γ or IL- 2 may be used as genetic adjuvants to improve the efficacies of DNA vaccines against avian coccidiosis.
Sperm transfer in monogenean (platyhelminth) parasites
Authors: Kearn Graham , Whittington Ian
Published: June 2015

There are three major groups of parasitic platyhelminths (flatworms). The digeneans and cestodes are endoparasites, while the monogeneans are ectoparasites mostly on the gills or skin of fishes. Monogeneans are hermaphrodite and, with the exception of the gyrodactylids, mostly protandrous, the male reproductive system maturing before the female system. Their ectoparasitic life-style provides unique opportunities to observe the reproductive biology of living platyhelminths, opportunities restricted in digeneans and cestodes by their endoparasitic habits. Moreover, the male copulatory organs (MCOs) of monogeneans are of special interest because of their perplexing diversity, ranging from sclerotised penis tubes, many with accessory sclerites, to cirruses and genital atrium armature (hooks and spines). The relatively few accounts in the literature of mating in monogeneans are reproduced in this review, together with consideration of the following aspects of sperm transfer: structure and function of MCOs; self-insemination; spermatophores and pseudospermatophores; “hypodermic” and transtegumental insemination; tissue fusion; glands associated with MCOs and vaginae; finding a mating partner.
A history of urine microscopy
Authors: Cameron J. Stewart
Published: June 2015

The naked-eye appearance of the urine must have been studied by shamans and healers since the Stone Age, and an elaborate interpretation of so-called Uroscopy began around 600 AD as a form of divination. A 1000 years later, the first primitive monocular and compound microscopes appeared in the Netherlands, and along with many other objects and liquids, urine was studied from around 1680 onwards as the enlightenment evolved. However, the crude early instruments did not permit fine study because of chromatic and linear/spherical blurring. Only after complex multi-glass lenses which avoided these problems had been made and used in the 1820s in London by Lister, and in Paris by Chevalier and Amici, could urinary microscopy become a practical, clinically useful tool in the 1830s. Clinical urinary microscopy was pioneered by Rayer and his pupils in Paris (especially Vigla), in the late 1830s, and spread to UK and Germany in the 1840s, with detailed descriptions and interpretations of cells and formed elements of the urinary sediment by Nasse, Henle, Robinson and Golding Bird. Classes were held, most notably by Donné in Paris. After another 50 years, optical microscopy had reached its apogee, with magnifications of over 1000 times obtainable free of aberration, using immersion techniques. Atlases of the urinary sediment were published in all major European countries and in the US. Polarised light and phase contrast was used also after 1900 to study urine, and by the early 20th century, photomicroscopy (pioneered by Donné and Daguerre 50 years previously, but then ignored) became usual for teaching and recording. In the 1940s electron microscopy began, followed by detection of specific proteins and cells using immunofluorescent antibodies. All this had been using handheld methodology. Around 1980, machine-assisted observations began, and have dominated progress since.
Is There A Stable Long-run Relationship Between Unemployment And Productivity?
Authors: Jalles João Tovar
Published: June 2015

This paper assesses whether productivity and unemployment have a stable long-run relationship. We explore a panel of 19 OECD countries between 1970 and 2012 and rely on recently developed time series econometric methods. Our findings suggest that unemployment and productivity are non-stationary in levels and in many individual cases these series are cointegrated, even after accounting for possible structural breaks. For many individual countries the long-run effect seems to be generally positive. There is also evidence of two-way causality, but the stronger directional relationship runs from unemployment to productivity.
Convergence Across Polish Regions, 2005–2011
Authors: Piątak Łukasz
Published: June 2015

This article analyses the convergence across Polish regions between 2005-2011. Its theoretical and empirical character determined the choice of research methods. The theoretical part includes an analysis of the literature devoted to the convergence theory, and the empirical part is based on statistical surveys. Statistical data used in the article was taken from the following databases: for the United Kingdom - Office for National Statistics; for Finland - Statistic Finland; for Poland and the rest of the countries - Statistical Yearbook of the Regions - Poland from 2005 to 2013. The studies confirmed that in Poland a strong concentration of economic activity took place in analyzed period. The convergence of per capita GDP did not apply. Rich regions grew faster than poor ones. The convergence of labour productivity did not apply either. The divergence of the K/L relation determined the divergence of labour productivity in the analyzed period. In the last part of the article the author analyzed the convergence across regions in EU countries. In case of countries that gained the accession to the EU on 1 May 2004, convergence did not apply. On the other hand, rich countries of EU like Austria, Belgium or the Netherlands confirmed the phenomenon of convergence at the NUTS level in analyzed period.
The Relationship Between Supervisory Board And Management And Their Communication Processes In Publicly Listed Companies In Poland
Authors: Gad Jacek
Published: June 2015

The focal point of this study is to present the results of empirical research concerning operation of supervisory boards in the practice of companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE). The main subject of interest concerns two research areas: the character of the relationship between as well as the methods and tools employed in communications between a supervisory board and management. The research paper consists of theoretical concepts regarding the supervisory boards’ tasks and the relationship between a supervisory board and a management board. Moreover, another area of interests concerns legislative changes that, according to the author, have had a great influence on functioning of supervisory boards in the practice of WSE-listed companies. The conclusions presented in the paper have been formulated on the basis of a review of the literature, analysis of pertinent regulations, and a questionnaire survey of members of supervisory boards which was conducted in September, October and November 2011 (the data was obtained by means of postal surveys).
The relationship between the Shang and the ethnic groups on the Northern Frontiers as reflected in the northern-style bronzes unearthed in Yinxu Site
Authors: Zhu Fenghan
Published: June 2015

Through an analysis of oracle bone inscriptions relating to attacks on the northern and western borders of the Shang Kingdom by various ethnic groups living in the Northern Frontier Zone, this paper suggests that the members of northern chiefdoms such as the Qiong Fang, Tu Fang, or Fang Fang mainly lived in the mountainous areas of present-day western and northwestern Shanxi, northeastern Shaanxi, and northern Hebei Provinces. The paper analyzes the characteristics of northern frontier-style bronzes unearthed from this region and suggests to which cultures they may have belonged. Based on these suggestions and analyses, this paper discusses the northern-style bronzes unearthed from offering pits, sacrificial pits and tombs at the Yinxu Site and reveals that the northern-style bronzes frequently seen at Yinxu, especially the ones dating to the late stage of Phase I and Phase II of Yinxu Period (i.e., those dating to the reigns of Kings Wu Ding and Zu Jia), are a sign of frequent warfare between the Shang people and the ethnic groups inhabiting the Northern Frontier Zone, warfare having been the main form of the contact between them. Moreover, this paper discusses the significance of the communication of the Shang with these northern ethnic groups for establishing exchange between the Shang and the people in the Eurasian Steppe.
The motivic Thom–Sebastiani theorem for regular and formal functions
Authors: Lê Quy Thuong
Published: June 2015

Thanks
to the work of Hrushovski and Loeser on motivic Milnor fibers, we give a model-theoretic proof for the motivic Thom–Sebastiani theorem in the case of regular functions. Moreover, slightly extending
Hrushovski–Loeser’s construction adjusted to Sebag, Loeser and Nicaise’s motivic integration for formal schemes and rigid varieties, we formulate and prove an analogous result for formal functions. The latter is meaningful as it has been a crucial element of constructing Kontsevich–Soibelman’s theory of motivic Donaldson–Thomas invariants.
Decapod Crustacea of the Central Paratethyan Ottnangian Stage (middle Burdigalian): implications for systematics and biogeography
Authors: Hyžný Matúš , Harzhauser Mathias , Danninger Wolfgang
Published: June 2015

Decapod crustaceans from the Ottnangian (middle Burdigalian, Lower Miocene) of the Western and Central Paratethys remain poorly known. In this study, we review and re-describe mud shrimps (Jaxea kuemeli), ghost shrimps (Gourretiasp.,Calliax michelottii) and brachyuran crabs of the families Leucosiidae, Polybiidae and Portunidae. A dorsal carapace of the genusCalliaxis reported for the first time in the fossil record. Re-examination of the type material ofRandallia strouhali(Leucosiidae) andGeryon ottnangensis(Geryonidae) resulted in a transfer of these species intoPalaeomyra(Leucosiidae) andLiocarcinus(Polybiidae), respectively.Achelous vindobonensis, originally described as a chela of a portunid crab, probably belongs to a member of Polybiidae and is provisionally treated asLiocarcinussp. Only two species,J. kuemeliandC. michelottii, are also known from the Karpatian, the succeeding Paratethyan stage. In most cases, the decapod assemblages of the Ottnangian consist of rather shallow-water taxa whereas the assemblages of the Karpatian consist of deep-water taxa from the middle and outer shelf. The Central Paratethyan assemblages show similarities in genus composition to the Proto-Mediterranean and recent Indo-Pacific regions.Gourretiasp. represents the earliest occurrence of the respective genus in the fossil record. The Oligocene–Early Miocene appearance ofPalaeomyraandLiocarcinusin the circum-Mediterranean implies that sources of present-day diversity hotspots in the Indo-Pacific trace to the Western Tethys (as for other decapod genera), although coeval decapod assemblages in the Indo-Pacific remain poorly known.
The correlation of the Neogene of Central and Eastern Paratethys segments of Ukraine with the International Stratigraphic Chart based on planktonic microfossils
Authors: Gozhyk Petro , Semenenko Vladimir , Andreeva-Grigorovich Aida , Maslun Ninel
Published: June 2015

Detailed analysis of microplankton occurrence (planktonic foraminifera, nannoplankton, dinocysts) in Neogene sediments situated at the north-western and south-eastern margins of Ukraine enabled us to distinguish 10 associations of oceanic plankton which specified the relative age of lithostratigraphic units of various regions and were used as correlation levels within the Central and Eastern Paratethys strata. Moreover, an attempt to correlate regional stages and the International Stratigraphic Chart (ISC) is performed. The Oligocene/Miocene boundary (of ISC) represented by the correlation level I was placed within the Central Paratethys regional stage Egerian and in the middle part of the Eastern Paratethys regional stage Caucasian s.l. The latter regional stage is subdivided by the correlation level into two substages: Lower Caucasian (Chattian of ISC) and Upper Caucasian (Aquitanian of ISC). The correlation level II was placed within the upper part of the Eggenburgian and lower part of the Batisifonian (Sakaraulian) regional stages and is correlated approximately with the middle part of the Burdigalian (of ISC). The base of the Middle Miocene is marked by level IV and was recognized only in deposits of the Eastern Paratethys belonging to the Tarkhanian regional stage. This level corresponds to the lowermost Badenian and Langhian (of ISC) stages. Correlation level V is traced in the Konkian sediments of the Eastern Paratethys and is compared with the Upper Badenian and Lower Serravalian (of ISC) stages. Level VI at the Middle/Upper Miocene boundary is situated in the middle part of the Bessarabian regional substage of the Eastern Paratethys and enables its correlation with the Serravallian/Tortonian boundary (of ISC). Level VII is recognized in the Baherovo Member (Meotian stage), while level VIII is fixed at the top of the Meotian regional stage in the Azov and Black Seas, Crimea and adjacent region named Northern Prichornomorye. Both these levels are also identified in the Berezhnytsya Formation of the Eastern Carpathian Foredeep. Correlation of these sediments is similar to the correlation of sediments of Lake Pannon (Pannonian regional stage), hence with the Tortonian stage (of ISC). Level IX was recognized in sediments of the Azov Member belonging to the Kimmerian regional stage of the Eastern Paratethys and represents the top of the Miocene strata. Level X occurs within the Taman Member of the Black Sea shelf and is correlated with the upper part of Kuyalnikian regional stage; corresponding to the Pliocene/Pleistocene boundary.
Quaternary faulting in the Tatra Mountains, evidence from cave morphology and fault-slip analysis
Authors: Szczygieł Jacek
Published: June 2015

Tectonically deformed cave passages in the Tatra Mts (Central Western Carpathians) indicate some fault activity during the Quaternary. Displacements occur in the youngest passages of the caves indicating (based on previous U-series dating of speleothems) an Eemian or younger age for those faults, and so one tectonic stage. On the basis of stress analysis and geomorphological observations, two different mechanisms are proposed as responsible for the development of these displacements. The first mechanism concerns faults that are located above the valley bottom and at a short distance from the surface, with fault planes oriented sub-parallel to the slopes. The radial, horizontal extension and vertical σ1 which is identical with gravity, indicate that these faults are the result of gravity sliding probably caused by relaxation after incision of valleys, and not directly from tectonic activity. The second mechanism is tilting of the Tatra Mts. The faults operated under WNW-ESE oriented extension with σ1 plunging steeply toward the west. Such a stress field led to normal dip-slip or oblique-slip displacements. The faults are located under the valley bottom and/or opposite or oblique to the slopes. The process involved the pre-existing weakest planes in the rock complex: (i) in massive limestone mostly faults and fractures, (ii) in thin-bedded limestone mostly inter-bedding planes. Thin-bedded limestones dipping steeply to the south are of particular interest. Tilting toward the N caused the hanging walls to move under the massif and not toward the valley, proving that the cause of these movements was tectonic activity and not gravity.
The synthesis of optically enriched 2-benzyl- 3-nitropropionic amide
Authors: Wang Si-Hong , Yin Xiu-Mei
Published: June 2015

The present communication describes a valuable procedure for the short and facile synthesis of a thermolysin inhibitor, i.e. optically enriched 2-benzyl-3-nitropropionic amide, successfully synthesized by virtue of a diastereoisomeric mixture intermediate, starting from commercially available
Reducing Public Health Risk During Disasters: Identifying Social Vulnerabilities
Authors: Wolkin Amy , Patterson Jennifer Rees , Harris Shelly , Soler Elena , Burrer Sherry , McGeehin Michael , Greene Sandra
Published: June 2015

All regions of the US experience disasters which result in a number of negative public health consequences. Some populations have higher levels of social vulnerability and, thus, are more likely to experience negative impacts of disasters including emotional distress, loss of property, illness, and death. To mitigate the impact of disasters on at-risk populations, emergency managers must be aware of the social vulnerabilities within their community. This paper describes a qualitative study which aimed to understand how emergency managers identify social vulnerabilities, also referred to as at-risk populations, in their populations and barriers and facilitators to current approaches. Findings suggest that although public health tools have been developed to aid emergency managers in identifying at-risk populations, they are not being used consistently. Emergency managers requested more information on the availability of tools as well as guidance on how to increase ability to identify at-risk populations.
A stochastic rank ordered logit model for rating multi-competitor games and sports
Authors: Glickman Mark E. , Hennessy Jonathan
Published: June 2015

Many games and sports, including races, involve outcomes in which competitors are rank ordered. In some sports, competitors may play in multiple events over long periods of time, and it is natural to assume that their abilities change over time. We propose a Bayesian state-space framework for rank ordered logit models to rate competitor abilities over time from the results of multi-competitor games. Our approach assumes competitors’ performances follow independent extreme value distributions, with each competitor’s ability evolving over time as a Gaussian random walk. The model accounts for the possibility of ties, an occurrence that is not atypical in races in which some of the competitors may not finish and therefore tie for last place. Inference can be performed through Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation from the posterior distribution. We also develop a filtering algorithm that is an approximation to the full Bayesian computations. The approximate Bayesian filter can be used for updating competitor abilities on an ongoing basis. We demonstrate our approach to measuring abilities of 268 women from the results of women’s Alpine downhill skiing competitions recorded over the period 2002–2013.
Energy efficiency model for small/medium geothermal heat pump systems
Authors: Staiger Robert , Tanţău Adrian
Published: June 2015

Heating application efficiency is a crucial point for saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Today, EU legal framework conditions clearly define how heating systems should perform, how buildings should be designed in an energy efficient manner and how renewable energy sources should be used. Using heat pumps (HP) as an alternative “Renewable Energy System” could be one solution for increasing efficiency, using less energy, reducing the energy dependency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This scientific article will take a closer look at the different efficiency dependencies of such geothermal HP (GHP) systems for domestic buildings (small/medium HP). Manufacturers of HP appliances must document the efficiency, so called COP (Coefficient of Performance) in the EU under certain standards. In technical datasheets of HP appliances, these COP parameters give a clear indication of the performance quality of a HP device. HP efficiency (COP) and the efficiency of a working HP system can vary significantly. For this reason, an annual efficiency statistic named “Seasonal Performance Factor” (SPF) has been defined to get an overall efficiency for comparing HP Systems. With this indicator, conclusions can be made from an installation, economy, environmental, performance and a risk point of view. A technical and economic HP model shows the dependence of energy efficiency problems in HP systems. To reduce the complexity of the HP model, only the important factors for efficiency dependencies are used. Dynamic and static situations with HP´s and their efficiency are considered. With the latest data from field tests of HP Systems and the practical experience over the last 10 years, this information will be compared with one of the latest simulation programs with the help of two practical geothermal HP system calculations. With the result of the gathered empirical data, it allows for a better estimate of the HP system efficiency, their economic costs and benefits and their environmental impact.
Factors of impact on the evolution of electricity markets from renewable energy sources: a comparison between Romania and Germany
Authors: Clodnițchi Roxana , Chinie Alexandra Cătălina
Published: June 2015

When talking about the future of Europe we also think about alternative energy sources. It is up to national governments to decide how to encourage investments in this field in order to contribute to the 20-20-20 EU-objective. Until the network delivery cost for electricity produced from renewable sources will be comparable to the cost for energy from traditional sources ("grid parity"), the development of businesses and markets for electricity from renewable sources is going to be driven by support schemes. The state of the grids and the facility of grid-access constitute another two key factors influencing the development of this sector. Last but not least, the question of policy consistency is raised within the business community. Over the past years some support schemes have proved to be more effective than others, and grid conditions have also evolved. Policies supporting the development of renewables also changed at EU-level and at national levels. Based on statistics, scientific literature and the feedback of the business community, this study aims to analyse the development of renewable energy sectors in the European Union by comparing Germany’s and Romania’s experience. Also this study describes the current and expected future market situation in these countries relying on data gained from questionnaires and interviews with specialists in the renewable field.
German enterprises and the changes in energy economics due to increased concerns regarding environmental sustainability
Authors: Weber Gregor
Published: June 2015

This article is part of a first year doctoral research regarding the current state of knowledge in environmental sustainability, energy economics and their impact on European enterprises. As the current changes and modifications of the German energy economics system are observed by people all around the globe, the current paper analyzes what has been said until now in the scientific literature on character of the new strategy for energy consumption and production in Germany and its impact on environmental and social sustainability. With the help of two questionnaire-based surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014 through the German DIHK1, German enterprises were surveyed in order to: identify potential differences and similarities between the two periods, identify the effects of the energy transition on companies’ profitability, and analyze these effects and compare the results in terms of potential trend developments. The research findings confirmed that changes in the energy system affect not only the environmental sustainability only, but also the economy, in some cases even independent of the stage in which the changing system of the economy presently is.
Spiropyran salts and their neutral precursors: synthesis, crystal structure, photochromic transformations in solutions and solid state
Authors: Yurieva E.A. , Aldoshin S.M.
Published: June 2015

This review covers investigations of spiropyran iodides with N-substituted indoline fragment, and with the pyran cycle being annelated to N-methylated pyridine ring. The schemes of synthesis of iodides and their neutral precursors, as well as results of X-ray analysis and photochemical study of the crystals of the obtained compounds are presented. Based on our and literature data, the relationship between the structure and photochromic properties has been discussed for a series of salts and neutral pyridospiropyrans.
A Survey of Solitary Deaths in Japan for Shortening Postmortem Interval Until Discover/ Студија На Смртни Случаи На Самци Во Јапонија За Скратување На Постмортем Интервалот До Откривањето
Authors: Morita Satomu , Nishi Katsuji , Furukawa Satoshi , Hitosugi Masahito
Published: June 2015

Recently in advanced nations, the number of solitary households is increasing. Data from Japanese population survey in 2010 showed that the percent of solitary households was 32.4% and that was the largest category of household types. The Japanese government regards solitary death as important problem, but a useful survey on solitary death has not been performed. We have focused on the postmortem interval until discovery of the death as a measure of solitary deaths.

We conducted a survey of 582 forensic autopsy cases in the Osaka medical examiner’s office over three years, from April in 2010 till March in 2012. We excluded suicide cases. We collected data on the, gender, age, postmortem interval (PMI) until discovery, family structure, situation of discovery of the body, cause of death, and the time interval from the last hospital visit.

Here, we found that people who had high risk of solitary death ranged in, age from 60 to 69 which is the age of retirement for many people. In order to prevent solitary death, we suggest that people who live alone should take better care of themselves and participate in a community setting after their retirement. We can show that the recent efforts of the Japanese government for reducing solitary death had been working well. The government care givers take care of the person living alone almost like their own family. We also suggest that the people who unfortunately do not have any home care should subscribe to a newspaper for shortening the PMI.
Expression of p53 Protein Product in Triple Negative Breast Cancers and Relation with Clinical and Histopathological Parameters/ Експресија На Р53 Протеинскиот Продукт Кај Тројно Негативните Карциноми На Дојка Во Сооднос Со Клиничките И Хистопатолошките Параметри
Authors: Jasar Dzengis , Smichkoska Snezana , Kubelka Katerina , Filipovski Vanja , Petrushevska Gordana
Published: June 2015

Introduction: "Triple" negative breast cancer is a subgroup of so-called basal-like breast cancer. They are represented with 15% of all breast cancers, characterized with lack of hormone receptor as well as with negative expression of HER2 test. These tumors are more frequent in Afro-Americans and Latin-Americans, in patients with BRCA1 mutations and in patients with recent delivery. The aim of this study is to present the immunohistochemical and clinico-pathological characteristics of the triple negative breast cancer and their correlation with expression of the protein product of the tumor suppressor gene p53.

Methods: A retrospective analyses of 24 patients with triple negative breast cancer was performed. All of the patients were evaluated in the Histopathological Laboratory of the Clinical Hospital Sistina, during the period from June 2009, until June 2011. The standard immunohistochemical procedures, including the hormone receptor status, HER2 status, proliferative index - Ki67 and p53 gene protein product were performed, as well as additional immunohistochemical staining for socalled basal keratins (Cytokeratin 5/6 and high molecular weight cytokeratin 34BE12).

Results: The age of the patients ranged from 29-77 years. Positive lymph nodes were found in 14 (59%) patients. The tumor was poorly differentiated in 19 patients (79%). Overexpression of the p53 protein product was evaluated in 19 (79%) of the cases. All p53 negative patients (5/5) had poorly differentiated tumors (G3), associated with positive regional lymph nodes. The p53 positive group expressed quite opposite correlation, only 9/19 (47%) were with positive lymph nodes (p = 0.03). The expression of p53 protein product was also associated with the nuclear grade (p = 0.005), the mitotic index (p = 0.001), lymph-vascular invasion (p = 0.005) and with the proliferation index Ki67 (p = 0.003). There was a trend for association with the tumor size - pT (p = 0.05).

Conclusion: According to the results, the triple negative breast cancers are subgroup of the poorly differentiated neoplasms frequently associated in the younger age groups. The majority of these have overexpression of the p53 protein product, which in other hand, are inversely correlated with lymph nodes metastases. Hence, the necessity of enriching the immunohistochemical protocol of these patients with new antibodies, in order to evaluate their expression, which would be helpful for prediction the outcome of different therapeutical modalities.
Operative Treatment of Degenerative Lumbar Spine Spondylolisthesis/ Оперативен Третман На Лумбосакрална Дегенреативна Спондилолистеза
Authors: Kaftandziev Igor , Trpeski Simon , Filipce Venko , Arsovski Oliver , Hasani Ilir , Nikolov Ljupčo , Kaev Aleko
Published: June 2015

Introduction: Management of degenerative lumbosacral spondylolisthesis with spinal stenosis is still controversial. Surgery is widely used, as well as non-surgical treatment. Aim: To evaluate the clinical results and functional outcome after operative treatment in Grade II and III lumbar spine spondylolisthesis.

Material and methods: Twelve patients with symptoms and image-confirmed degenerative spondylolisthesis entered the study. Mean patient age was 57 years. Spondylolisthesis Grade II or III, segment L4-L5 or L5-S1 were evaluated. All patients underwent similar protocols. Operative treatment was decompressive laminectomy, posterior one segment fixation, and fusion with autologous bone grafting. Functional outcome measures were Visual Analog Scale (VAS, 10-point scale) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI, 100-percent scale) after 6 and 12 months.

Results: Patient follow-up was 12 months. Preoperatively, 7 patients had severe disability according to ODI, 4 had moderate disability. VAS measured 6 and 7 points in 6 patients, lowest score of 4 points and the highest score of 9. After 6 months, ODI showed 5 patients had minimal and 7 had moderate disability; 2 patients had 0 points on the VAS, 2 had a score of 1, 4 had a score of 2, highest score of 4 points. Treatment outcome effects after 1 year were 9 patients with minimal disability, 3 with moderate; VAS - 2 patients with O points, 3 with 1 point, 4 with 2 points.

Conclusion: Patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis treated surgically showed substantially greater improvement in pain and functional outcome during a period of 1 year.
Sentinel Lymph Node Detection in Breast Cancer – First Experience/ Детекција На Сентинелни Лимфни Јазли Кај Карцином На Дојка – Први Искуства
Authors: Stojanoski Sinisa , Ristevska Nevena , Pop Gjorceva Daniela , Antevski Borce , Petrusevska Gordana
Published: June 2015

Introduction: Breast cancer accouns for 22.9% of all cancers in women and 13.7% of cancer deaths. Positive axillary lymphnodes (ALN) predict the development of distant metastases. The status of the sentinel lymphnode (SLN) is crutial for the treatment selection.

Aim: To determine the benefits of SLN detection in patients with breast cancer. Material and methodology: 38 female patients (pts), age 44 ± 12 years, with T1-2 N0 M0 breast cancer, without enlarged ALN on ultrasound (US), were included. SLN detection was performed using gamma camera and gamma detection probe after periareolar subcutaneous and/or peritumoral injection of (99m-Technetium-SENTISCINT). Blue dye was administered 20 min before the operation. SLN was extirpated and ex tempore histopathology was performed.

Results: Ex tempore SLN evaluation was negative and the lymphatic pathways preserved in 28/38 (74%) pts. In 10/38 (26%) pts SLN was positive, followed by radical surgery. In 3/28 ex tempore negative patients, histopathological analysis showed metastatic involvement (false negative). In 3/10 ex tempore positive patients micro metastases 0,2-2 mm were detected. 12 pts had 2 SLN, 8/12 (66%) had negative and 4/12 (34%) had positive SLN. 3 pts had a rare double drainage to axilla and a. mammaria int.

Conclusion: Our results confirm that SLN detection technique is non-invasive, safe and reliable and should be incorporated into the guidelines for breast cancer pts (T1-2 N0 M0). The most reliable option for colloid application is the combined technique of periareolar and peritumoral injection. Patients with drainage to a. mammaria interna should be selected for adjuvant protocols.