bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bone metastases of the hand
Authors: Morris G , Evans S , Stevenson J , Kotecha A , Parry M , Jeys L , Grimer R 
Published: August 2017

Introduction The aim of this study was to identify patients with malignant hand lesions, establish the proportions of those that were metastases and review their clinical course. Methods A retrospective search of a prospective tumour database was carried out to identify all patients treated at our unit with hand metastases. Patient demographics were recorded including site of primary malignancy, region of the hand involved, management of their metastasis and clinical outcome. Results Overall, 149 patients were identified with a malignant tumour of the hand. Ten had a metastatic lesion. There were 3 women and 7 men with a median age of 68 years (range: 28–91 years) at presentation. All presented with non-mechanical hand pain while four had pain and swelling. The median interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was eight weeks. The minimum follow-up duration was four months. Three patients had no history of malignancy. Of the remaining seven patients, three had other known metastases. Six patients underwent solely palliative radiotherapy. Three patients had amputation. One was treated with surgical excision and radiotherapy. One had an amputation and axillary node clearance. All but one patient had died by the time of the latest follow-up appointment. The median time to death following identification of acrometastases was 18 months. Sites of primary disease were skin (n=4), lung (n=3), kidney (n=2) and neuroendocrine system (n=1). The thumb was the most commonly affected location. Conclusions This study demonstrates that patients presenting with non-mechanical hand pain should be considered to have a malignant process until proved otherwise, particularly in patients with thumb symptoms and a history of prior malignancy.
Labeling of Agri-food Products in Albanian Agriculture Context
Authors: Llazo Edlira , Noti Elton 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Albanian agriculture and especially the albanian farmer are experiencing a difficult situation with the ability to compete in the market.Albanian agriculture is a very important sector of the economy but with little contribution in the economic growth, due to a misorientation in the market of the albanian production. This study aims to adress some concerns and to open a discussion linked to the use of labelling as an instrument that would orient the albanian agriculture to a product with an added value and to make the albanian product a competitor even for the global market, based on the wide literature and on the experience of the more developed countires also referring to primary data.
The Effectiveness of Four-Factor Therapy: The Relationship of Therapy, Therapy Expectation, Increasing Awareness and Ordered Behavior on Reducing Marriage Conflicts
Authors: Asem Fatemeh Modaresi , Kashani Farah Lotfi , Vaziri Shahram 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Marriage conflicts lead to reduction of marriage, health and the healthy relationship with children. The side-effects of dissatisfaction with mental and physical health of spouses and children show the necessity of marriage interactions improvement and codification of various plans. This research attempts to present new results by investigating the effectiveness of four-factor therapy: the effect of therapy, therapy hope and expectation, increasing awareness, and ordered-behavior in marriage conflicts. This research is a semi-experimental based on the research type, 26 people were selected randomly among 40 people who were volunteering to take part in the therapy group and they were distributed into two groups experiment and control. The people who were in the experiment group experience than 2-hour sessions of group tetrahedron psychotherapy and the 54-questions questionnaire of marriage conflicts were applied in both groups as a pre-test and post-test questionnaire. Multi-variable covariance analysis was deployed in order to analyze the data. The data showed the significant difference between the scores of experimental group and control group and these results show the effectiveness of four-factor psychotherapy as an effective approach for reducing marriage conflicts and for improvement of couples′ relationships. The four-factor components of therapy can be effective on reducing marriage conflicts separately. Actually, this approach creates a relationship therapy (the hope creation in relationship improvement) and by this method the couple get noticed of their problem and understand how to modify their behavior and subsequently how to organize it.
Association of Ejaculate Sperm Counts with their Morphological and Morphometric Characteristics in Hypor Boars
Authors: Górski Krzysztof , Kondracki Stanisław , Strachocka Karolina , Wysokińska Anna 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Reproductive efficiency in pigs is largely dependent on the fertility of the boar. Boars used at insemination stations should produce a large amount of semen with high fertilization capacity. The sperm count influences the conception rate and the number of insemination doses produced. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and morphometric characteristics of boars of the Hypor breed in relation to the total sperm count in the ejaculate. An analysis was performed of 120 ejaculates collected from 12 Hypor boars used at three insemination stations. The ejaculate sperm count was found to affect the morphometric characteristics of spermatozoa from boars. In the ejaculates with the lowest sperm count the spermatozoa heads were significantly shorter and narrower and had a smaller surface area. The sperm from ejaculates with the lowest sperm count had relatively small head dimensions in relation to the tail length and total sperm length. In the ejaculates with the most sperm cells, the proportion of spermatozoa with major defects was significantly greater than in the ejaculates from other groups. In the ejaculates with the lowest sperm count the frequency of sperm with progressive motility was significantly lower. The fewest insemination doses can be prepared from these ejaculates.
Does road transport influence plasma leptin concentrations in horses? Preliminary study
Authors: Kędzierski Witold , Bełkot Zbigniew 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Transport is one of the most common stressors for horses leading to an increase in cortisol secretion. Cortisol promotes leptin synthesis and release. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of short transport on circulating leptin and cortisol concentrations. A total of 16 crossbred naïve horses (7 geldings, 9 mares) aged 2-11 years, and weighing 530-680 kg were included in the study. The horses were transported in a commercial horse-truck to an unknown holding pen for temporary housing. To measure plasma leptin and cortisol concentrations, three blood samples were collected from each horse: before transport, immediately after unloading from the truck, and nine hours after transport at the arrival point. Transport caused a significant increase in mean plasma cortisol concentration determined at unloading, and after nine hours of unloading, in comparison to values obtained before loading. Plasma leptin concentrations did not change during the study. In conclusion, transportation procedures did not influence plasma leptin concentration in horses, despite significantly increased cortisol release.
Gabor orthonormal bases generated by indicator functions of parallelepiped-shaped sets
Authors: Burgiel Heidi , Oussa Vignon 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThe main objective of the present work is to provide a procedure to construct Gabor orthonormal bases generated by indicator functions of parallelepiped-shaped sets. Given two full-rank lattices of the same volume, we investigate conditions under which there exists a common fundamental domain which is the image of a unit cube under an invertible linear operator. More precisely, we provide a characterization of pairs of full-rank lattices in{\mathbb{R}^{d}}admitting common connected fundamental domains of the type{N[0,1)^{d}}, whereNis an invertible matrix. As a byproduct of our results, we are able to construct a large class of Gabor windows which are indicator functions of sets of the type{N[0,1)^{d}}. We also apply our results to construct multivariate Gabor frames generated by smooth windows of compact support. Finally, we prove in the two-dimensional case that there exists an uncountable family of pairs of lattices of the same volume which do not admit a common connected fundamental domain of the type{N[0,1)^{2}}, whereNis an invertible matrix.
Fiscal Behavior Volatility, Economic Growth, and Urban-Rural Income Disparity
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Liu Shulin 
Published: August 2017

AbstractFiscal behavior of local governments has great volatility in China, especially in the period of economic transition. This paper estimates fiscal behavior volatility by making regression analysis of panel data of 30 provinces from 1994 to 2011. Then we establish a dynamic panel model to study the direct and indirect impact of the fiscal behavior volatility on the urban-rural income disparity. Empirical results show that urban-rural income disparity has nonlinear relationship with economic growth and financial development and that fiscal behavior volatility expands the urban-rural income disparity directly and indirectly. The larger fiscal behavior volatility comes greater urban-rural income disparity. We also find that the urban-rural income disparity is further enlarged through dual economic structure. If one of the economic growth and financial development is fixed, the other one has an inverted U-shaped relationship with urban-rural income disparity.
A Convergent Control Strategy for Quantum Systems
Authors: Cong Shuang , Lou Yuesheng , Liu Jianxiu , Kuang Sen 
Published: August 2017

AbstractIn the interaction picture, a sufficient and necessary condition that guarantees the convergence of closed quantum control system is proposed in this paper. Theoretical derivation and the proof show that it is possible to achieve the convergence to the target state by constructing an observable operator in an energy function and selecting control Hamiltonians. Numerical simulation experiments on a four-level system verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Exponential Stability and Availability Analysis of a Complex Standby System
Authors: Wang Chunli , Teng Mingyan , Zheng Fu 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
In this paper, we first investigate the solution of the two correlated units redundant system with two types of failure. By using the method of functional analysis, especially, the c0 semigroup theory of bounded linear operators on Banach space, we prove the well-posedness and the existence of positive solution of the system. By analyzing the spectra distribution of the system operator, we prove that the dynamic solution of the system asymptotically converges to the nonnegative steady-state solution which is the eigenfunction corresponding to eigenvalue 0 of the system operator. Furthermore, we discuss the exponential stability of the system. Finally, we analyze the reliability the system with the help of our main results and present some reliability indices of the system at the end of the paper.
An Exploratory Study on the Dimensions that Motivate the Attitudes of Young Consumers to the Consumption of Luxury Products
Authors: Ferreira Mariana Ângelo , Tamashiro Helenita Rodrigues da Silva , Braga Sergio Silva 
Published: August 2017

AbstractGiven the global economic context, most luxury brands are investing on the growth of so-called “emerging markets”, such as Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICs), so that new metropolitan areas emerge as recognized centers of luxury consumption. In this perspective, the term consumption not only means a relationship of exchange, but also a system of communicating power and lifestyles, where young consumers are fundamental agents in the promotion of luxury products and services that fascinate and awaken desires. Therefore, the aim of the present research was to identify the dimensions that motivate the consumers′ attitudes in relation to the acquisition of luxury products. To verify the proposed objective, a quantitative exploratory research was carried out by means of a survey with a sample of 304 respondents collected through a direct approach in Sao Paulo, Brazil. In the process of data processing, the Structural Equations Modeling with the Partial Least Square (PLS) method was used for it. As a result, it was possible to observe that the attitudes are oriented by aspects related to quality and desire, generating, thus, the consumption motivation that was formed by the pleasure of the purchase, by the happiness provided by the product and by the social influence.
Grammar Efficacy and Grammar Performance: An Exploratory Study on Arabic Learners
Authors: Mustapha Nik Hanan , Mustapha Nik Farhan 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Previous research has clearly documented that self-efficacy in language learning positively affects students′ performance in acquiring language skills. While much research has studied grammar efficacy indirectly as part of writing efficacy, none of these focuses on Arabic language learning. Considering the impact of self-efficacy on language learning, as well as the important role of grammar in Arabic learning, this study examines the relationship between grammar efficacy and grammar performance among students learning Arabic as a foreign language in Malaysian public universities. Specifically, it intends to determine the relationship between grammar efficacy and grammar performance among Arabic learners on three aspects: Correction of grammar errors, vocalization of words, and construction of sentences. Using a newly-developed questionnaire, 140 students majoring in Arabic language from a public university in Malaysia participated in the study. The questionnaire covers three important aspects in Arabic grammar learning: Correction of grammar errors, vocalization of words, and construction of sentences. This study showed a moderate correlation between grammar efficacy and grammar performance. Efficacy of sentence construction appeared to correlate the highest among the three aspects. Teachers′ awareness on the importance of heightening students perceived confidence in accomplishing grammar tasks will eventually promote better learning among students.
Celebrating nine years together
Authors: Martinico Giuseppe 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Perspectives on Federalism starts off its ninth year with this issue which gathers, as usual, a series of multi-disciplinary pieces. Almost two years have passed since we started our collaboration with De Gruyter, and our journal has since then enjoyed continued growth and has been acquiring international visibility. 2017 is going to be rich in surprises for our readers, with a wealth of interesting projects and special issues which will increase the already high standard of the journal. 2016 was also a very challenging year for scholars interested in federalism; the start of the Trump Presidency and the results of the referendum on Brexit held on 23 June 2016 are just two examples.
Ján Borodáč and His First Steps in Life and Theatre
Authors: Mišovic Karol 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
This paper presents little-known historical contexts of the life and production of the first Slovak professional director Ján Borodáč (1892-1964). It follows his private life, first encounters with theatre and especially his two-year studies in Prague. Its ambition is to offer several hypotheses which are supposed to elucidate the basic issues of Borodáč’s later production. It was namely during his youth and first encounters with practical theatre life that Borodáč’s views of theatre, which influenced Slovak professional theatre until the 1960s, were formed.
Ján Jamnický’s Ten Days with Soviet Theatre
Authors: Lindovská Nadežda 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Art was perceived in the Soviet Union as a part of ideology and propaganda aimed not only at the domestic environment but also at foreign countries. State cultural policy was presented through a series of magnificent meetings and shows, to which also participants from abroad were invited. In the 1930s Moscow was the venue of several theatre festivals, which were attended by Czechoslovak theatre makers. In 1936 it was also attended by Ján Jamnický, the novice theatre director of the Slovak National Theatre in Bratislava. The Slovak theatre maker saw a lot of inspiring productions and experienced the initial period of a campaign aimed at suppressing the freedom of artistic expression. He became a witness to the twilight of Russian theatre avant-garde. The present paper describes the theatre experiences of Ján Jamnický in the Soviet Union and their impact on his life, production and style of direction. It points to a series of overlooked facts which are necessary for a complete understanding of the historical and artistic context of Soviet theatre and Jamnický’s journey.
From a Single Presentation of Poetry Up to Its Stylized Stage Image in the Form of Theatre Performance
Authors: Podmaková Ú Dagmar 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
In the 1940s the Drama Company of the Slovak National Theatre introduced four poetry productions, which demonstrated the stage potential of the symbiosis of verse and a music-accompanied recitation in an original stage design solution. The single presentation of poetry of Poézia revolúcie a boja [The Poetry of Revolution and Fight, 1945] directed by Ján Jamnický and Pásmo poézie Janka Jesenského [The Show of Poetry by Janko Jesenský, 1946] directed by Jozef Budský were the first independent attempts at staging selected poetry. Besides recitation, they were dominated by the visual sign, powerful music sometimes accompanied by the singing of individuals and a voice band, and distinctive lighting design. Botto’s Smrť Jánošíkova [The Death of Jánošík] and Sládkovič’s Marína (both in 1948) directed by Jozef Budský displayed all features of synthetic theatre, combining recitation, voice band singing, scenic and visual solutions, metaphor, originally composed music inspired by the folk song, dance, film screening, and meaningful lighting. Jozef Budský indirectly built on Czech theatre, particularly on E. F. Burian. Both masterpieces by the authors of Štúr’s generation (Ján Botto, Andrej Sládkovič) aroused the interest of the expert public and the audience. It triggered arguments about excessive directorial intervention and insufficient ideological character, especially in the theatre form of Marína.
The Australopithecines – An Extinct Group of Human Ancestors: My Scientific Interest in South Africa
Authors: Kaszycka Katarzyna A. 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
I introduce the subject of my research interest in South Africa - the australopithecines - a group of bipedal, small-brained and large-toothed creatures from the Plio-Pleistocene, from which the human genus arose. I then briefly discuss various topics of my research, concerning: (1) Taxonomic status and morphological description of the extinct human relative from the Kromdraai site (Australopithecus robustus); (2) Graphic reconstruction of the partial skull from Kromdraai - specimen numbered TM 1517; (3) Assessment of size sexual dimorphism of the South African australopithecines (Australopithecus robustus and Australopithecus africanus), which, in terms of facial features, was pronounced - being almost gorilla-sized; (4) Social behavior of a fossil hominid species from around 2 million years ago, which, in terms of the social structure, was most likely a multimale-multifemale one; and (5) An event from the history of paleoanthropology, concerning the content of the 1924/25 photographs of the Taung Child (Australopithecus africanus) - the first australopithecine skull discovered.
Africa and Its People in the Polish Media
Authors: Średziński Paweł 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThe African continent is treated by the Polish media marginally and usually seen through the lens of four domains of stereotypical perceptions that are associated with difficult life conditions, threats and dangers, beautiful and wild nature, as well as original and diverse cultures. Monitoring of the Polish media has become very important in this situation. That is why the results of first media monitoring report were published in 2011 by ‘Africa Another Way’ Foundation. Five years later the monitoring was repeated. It is hard to resist the impression that Africa is still viewed as this poor, underdeveloped and dangerous continent. And the way it is presented translates into the way individuals of African descent are perceived.
Identification of trans Protein QTL for Secreted Airway Mucins in Mice and a Causal Role for Bpifb1
Authors: Donoghue Lauren J , Livraghi-Butrico Alessandra , McFadden Kathryn M , Thomas Joseph M , Chen Gang , Grubb Barbara R , O’Neal Wanda K , Boucher Richard C , Kelada Samir N P 
Published: August 2017

Abstract
Mucus hyper-secretion is a hallmark feature of asthma and other muco-obstructive airway diseases. The mucin proteins MUC5AC and MUC5B are the major glycoprotein components of mucus and have critical roles in airway defense. Despite the biomedical importance of these two proteins, the loci that regulate them in the context of natural genetic variation have not been studied. To identify genes that underlie variation in airway mucin levels, we performed genetic analyses in founder strains and incipient lines of the Collaborative Cross (CC) in a house dust mite mouse model of asthma. CC founder strains exhibited significant differences in MUC5AC and MUC5B, providing evidence of heritability. Analysis of gene and protein expression of Muc5ac and Muc5b in incipient CC lines (n = 154) suggested that post-transcriptional events were important regulators of mucin protein content in the airways. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping identified distinct, trans protein QTL for MUC5AC (chromosome 13) and MUC5B (chromosome 2). These two QTL explained 18 and 20% of phenotypic variance, respectively. Examination of the MUC5B QTL allele effects and subsequent phylogenetic analysis allowed us to narrow the MUC5B QTL and identify Bpifb1 as a candidate gene. Bpifb1 mRNA and protein expression were upregulated in parallel to MUC5B after allergen challenge, and Bpifb1 knockout mice exhibited higher MUC5B expression. Thus, BPIFB1 is a novel regulator of MUC5B.