bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome predictors and impact of central node dissection and radiometabolic treatments in papillary thyroid cancers ≤2 cm
Authors: Perrino Michela , Vannucchi Guia , Vicentini Leonardo , Cantoni Gianmaria , Dazzi Davide , Colombo Carla , Rodari Marcello , Chiti Arturo , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Fugazzola Laura
Published: December 2008

The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is rapidly growing, the recorded increase being mainly related to tumors ≤2 cm. The re-classification of tumors >1 and ≤2 cm limited to the thyroid from the T2 to the T1 category triggered some concerns about their best management. In order to identify possible predictors of disease outcome, several clinico-pathological features were analyzed by uni- and multivariate analyses in a retrospective consecutive series of 251 PTCs ≤2 cm. Moreover, since 37% of cases were submitted to prophylactic central compartment node dissection (CLND, VI–VII levels) and radioiodine ablation was performed only when the tumor had an extrathyroidal extension, the impact of these therapeutic tools on the final outcome was evaluated. Among all outcome predictors analyzed, only lymph node metastases and extracapsular invasion were strongly associated with persistence/recurrence. It is worth noting that neither age nor tumor size was a significant indicator of the outcome. Interestingly, as far as the therapeutic interventions are concerned, CLND was strongly associated with remission, whereas radioiodine ablation did not influence the outcome. In conclusion, present results confirm the prognostic influence of node metastases and extra-thyroidal invasion, indicating the need for aggressive treatment in tumors extending beyond the capsule. On the contrary, all pT1N0 tumors, regardless of the diameter, the number of intrathyroidal foci, and the age can be effectively treated only by surgery. The major impact of prophylactic CLND on prognosis suggests to routinely associate it to total thyroidectomy in cases with a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy.
No evidence for a bone phenotype in GPRC6A knockout mice under normal physiological conditions
Authors: Wellendorph Petrine , Johansen Lars Dan , Jensen Anders A , Casanova Emilio , Gassmann Martin , Deprez Pierre , Clément-Lacroix Philippe , Bettler Bernhard , Bräuner-Osborne Hans
Published: December 2008

GPRC6A is a seven-transmembrane receptor mediating signaling by a wide range of l-α-amino acids, a signaling augmented by the divalent cations Ca2+ and Mg2+. GPRC6A transcripts are detected in numerous mammalian tissues, but the physiological role of the receptor is thus far elusive. Analogously to the closely related calcium-sensing receptor, GPRC6A has been proposed to function as a metabolic sensor of Ca2+ and amino acids in bone and other tissues. In the present study, we have generated the first GPRC6A knockout mice and studied their phenotype with particular focus on bone homeostasis. The generated GPRC6A knockout mice are viable and fertile, develop normally, and exhibit no significant differences in body weight compared with wild-type littermates. Assessment of bone mineral density, histomorphometry, and bone metabolism demonstrated no significant differences between 13-week-old knockout and wild-type mice. In conclusion, our data do not support a role for GPRC6A in normal bone physiology.
Ethnic Variations in Prevalence of High-Risk Sexual Behaviors Among Asian and Pacific Islander Adolescents in Hawaii
Authors: Sasaki Paula Y. , Kameoka Velma A.
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We examined ethnic variations in high-risk sexual behaviors among Asian and Pacific Islander (API) adolescents in comparison with White adolescents.

Methods. We obtained data from the 2003 Hawaii Youth Risk Behavior Survey on 4953 students in grades 9 through 12. We conducted χ2 and logistic regression analyses on these data to examine the prevalence of high-risk sexual behaviors among Japanese, Filipino, Native Hawaiian, and White adolescents.

Results. We found significant ethnic variation in prevalence of high-risk sexual behaviors among API adolescents. Relative to White adolescents, Native Hawaiian adolescents were most likely to engage in lifetime sexual intercourse, recent sexual intercourse, and sexual initiation before age 13 years; Japanese adolescents were least likely to engage in these behaviors. Filipino adolescents were least likely to use substances before last sexual intercourse and condoms during last sexual intercourse.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest divergent patterns of risk among API ethnic groups, underscoring the heterogeneity of API subgroups and emphasizing the need for health disparities research on disaggregated API ethnic groups. The findings of such research should be used to design ethnically relevant interventions aimed at mitigating the negative health consequences of high-risk sexual behaviors.
Cyclic Tests of Model Pipe in Kaolin
Authors: Aubeny C. , Gaudin C. , Randolph M.
Published: December 2008

Soil-pipe interaction is an important factor in the design of steel catenary risers. Pertinent aspects of this issue include the backbone curve defining soil resistance under conditions of virgin penetration, equivalent soil spring stiffness during unload-reload cycles, and permanent displacements under cyclic loading. This paper presents the findings of single-gravity model tests in soft kaolin that were conducted to investigate these issues. Cyclic tests were conducted for small amplitude loading involving no reversal in the direction of the soil-resisting force, and large amplitude loading involving such reversals. Presented in this paper are measured relationships of soil secant stiffness as a function of displacement and load cycle for conditions of unloading and reloading. The rate of accumulation of permanent displacements under cyclic loading is strongly affected by the magnitude of loading. Backbone curve measurements during virgin penetration are in general agreement with analytical estimates. The laboratory-model test data were used to derive seabed stiffness parameters for a seabed-riser interaction model. An example analysis is presented for a typical steel catenary riser touching down on a soft seabed.
The Dirty Face Problem with Unawareness
Authors: Liu Zhen
Published: December 2008

By revisiting the classic dirty-face problem we highlight the notion of `unawareness' (a simpler state space) and compare it with `impreciseness' (a coarser information partition). The outcomes are derived with various information structures. That allows us to 1) demonstrate a model of differing interpretations of public information using asymmetric awareness; 2) compare and contrast the impact of unawareness and impreciseness on learning; 3) analyze the value of awareness and the value of preciseness; and 4) demonstrate the effect of unawareness and impreciseness on information revelation with indirect aggregation.
Minimal surfaces for architectural constructions
Authors: Velimirovic Ljubica , Radivojevic Grozdana , Stankovic Mica , Kostic Dragan
Published: December 2008

Minimal surfaces are the surfaces of the smallest area spanned by a given boundary. The equivalent is the definition that it is the surface of vanishing mean curvature. Minimal surface theory is rapidly developed at recent time. Many new examples are constructed and old altered. Minimal area property makes this surface suitable for application in architecture. The main reasons for application are: weight and amount of material are reduced on minimum. Famous architects like Otto Frei created this new trend in architecture. In recent years it becomes possible to enlarge the family of minimal surfaces by constructing new surfaces.
Characterization of kaolin dispersion using acoustic and electroacoustic spectroscopy
Authors: Dohnalová Z. , Svoboda L. , Sulcová P.
Published: December 2008

The objective of this work is the investigation of the kaolin dispersion by the ultrasonic techniques. In contact with aqueous solution clay minerals show cation - exchange properties and certain degree of dissolution or rather selective leaching of components. The work is divided into two main parts - determination of zeta potential and particle size distribution. The first part is focused on measuring of zeta potential. Effects of concentration of solid, different kind of electrolytes (0.01 M KCl, 0.01 M MgCl2 and 0.01 M CaCl2), pH and temperature of the dispersions are investigated. The isoelectric points (IEP) of kaolin suspension are about pH 4-5. Electrolytes containing monovalent cations such as K+ become zeta potential more negative compared to the values obtained with water. Such behavior is explained by the exchange of K+ ions with H+ ions in the system. When the electrolyte is formed by divalent cations such as Mg2+ or Ca2+, the values of zeta potential become less negative than zeta potential of kaolin in water. The second part is focused on the determination of particle size distribution with respect to dispersing conditions, such as the optimal dispersing agent (Na2SiO3, (NaPO3)6, Na4P2O7 or Busperse), time and power of ultrasonication and also the tracking of dispersion stability that is expressed by the measuring of particle size distribution during certain time period.
Study of Ce0.9Tb0.05Ln0.05O1.975 compounds as ceramic pigments
Authors: Sulcová P. , Vitásková L. , Trojan M.
Published: December 2008

New inorganic pigments based on CeO2 were synthesized as high-temperature Environment friendly inorganic pigments. This work is focused on mixed oxides based on ceria which are doped by rare earth elements, i.e. compounds with formula Ce0.9Tb0.05Ln0.05O1.975, where Ln means lanthanides. The pigments were prepared by the solid state reaction. Their colour properties were investigated depending on content of selected lanthanides and calcination temperature. All prepared pigments were applied into organic matrix and ceramic glaze. The pigments were evaluated from the standpoint of their structure, colour properties and particle sizes.
Orthogonal polynomials for the oscillatory-Gegenbauer weight
Authors: Milovanovic Gradimir , Cvetkovic Aleksandar , Marjanovic Zvezdan
Published: December 2008

This is a continuation of our previous investigations on polynomials orthogonal with respect to the linear functional L : P?C, where L = ?1 -1 p(x) d?(x), d?(x) = (1-x?)?-1/2 exp(i?x) dx, and P is a linear space of all algebraic polynomials. Here, we prove an extension of our previous existence theorem for rational ? ? (-1/2,0], give some hypothesis on three-term recurrence coefficients, and derive some differential relations for our orthogonal polynomials, including the second order differential equation.
Latent structure and construct validity of the reinforcement sensitivity questionnaire
Authors: Mitrovic Dusanka , Smederevac Snezana , Colovic Petar
Published: December 2008

The Revised reinforcement sensitivity theory contains three basic systems: Behavioral inhibition system (BAS), Behavioral activation system (BIS) and the Fight/ Flight/ Freeze (FFF) system. In this model, BIS is a system for detection of potential conflict or threat, and FFFS differs three basic patterns of reaction to actual or perceived danger. In Study 1, which was aimed at the examination of the latent structure of the RSQ, was conducted on a sample of 472 participants of both genders. The best - fitting model suggests that, at the top level of hierarchy, three dimensions exist, which are analogous to the BIS, BAS and FFF. The last dimension contains three subordinate dimensions, which represent the subsystems of the FFF. Study 2, in which 203 subjects participated, was aimed at examination of the relations between the dimensions of the Revised reinforcement sensitivity theory and dimensions of the PEN model. Confirmatory factor analyses of the RSQ and EPQ-R dimensions revealed that the best-fitting model comprised three latent dimensions, the first one being analogous to the BIS - Neuroticism, the second one to the BAS - Extraversion, and the third to the Aggressiveness- Psychoticism. The structure of the latent dimensions is in accordance with the expectations. The results state that fear and anxiety (which neurophysiological distinction is emphasized by Gray), are substantively similar on the behavioral level. Also, the results suggest that the Freeze dimension is probably closer to the BIS system than to the FFF.
Optical spectra of radio planetary nebulae in the large Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Payne J.L. , Filipovic M.D. , Millar W.C. , Crawford E.J. , de Horta , Stootman F.H. , Urosevic D.
Published: December 2008

We present 11 spectra from 12 candidate radio sources co-identified with known planetary nebulae (PNe) in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Originally found in Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) LMC surveys at 1.4, 4.8 and 8.64 GHz and confirmed by new high resolution ATCA images at 6 and 3 cm (4' /2' ), these complement data recently presented for candidate radio PNe in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC). Their spectra were obtained using the Radcliff 1.9-meter telescope in Sutherland (South Africa). All of the optical PNe and radio candidates are within 2' and may represent a population of selected radio bright sample only. Nebular ionized masses of these objects are estimated to be as high as 1.8 Mfi, supporting the idea that massive PNe progenitor central stars lose much of their mass in the asymptotic giant branch (AGB) phase or prior. We also identify a sub-population (33%) of radio PNe candidates with prominent ionized iron emission lines.
Radio-continuum study of the supernova remnants in the large Magellanic Cloud: An SNR with a highly polarized breakout region: SNR J0455-6838
Authors: Crawford E.J. , Filipovic M.D. , de Horta , Stootman F.H. , Payne J.L.
Published: December 2008

We present the results of new moderate resolution ATCA observations of SNR J0455-6838. We found that this SNR exhibits a mostly typical appearance with rather steep and curved ?=-0.81?0.18 and D=43?31?1 pc. Regions of high polarization were detected, including unusually strong (~70%) region corresponding to the northern breakout. Such a strong polarization in breakout regions has not been observed in any other SNR.
The analysis of the possible thermal emission at radio frequencies from an evolved supernova remnant HB 3 (G132.7+1.3): Revisited
Authors: Onic D. , Urosevic D.
Published: December 2008

It has recently been reported that some of the flux density values for an evolved supernova remnant (SNR) HB 3 (G132.7+1.3) are not accurate enough. In this work we therefore revised the analysis of the possible thermal emission at radio frequencies from this SNR using the recently published, corrected flux density values. A model including the sum of non-thermal (purely synchrotron) and thermal (bremsstrahlung) components is applied to fit the integrated radio spectrum of this SNR. The contribution of thermal component to the total volume emissivity at 1 GHz is estimated to be ? 37%. The ambient density is also estimated to be n ? 9 cm-3 for T = 104 K. Again we obtained a relatively significant presence of thermal emission at radio frequencies from the SNR, which can support interaction between SNR HB 3 and adjacent molecular cloud associated with the H ii region W3. Our model estimates for thermal component contribution to total volume emissivity at 1 GHz and ambient density are similar to those obtained earlier (? 40 %, ? 10 cm-3 ). It is thus obvious that the corrected flux density values do not affect the basic conclusions.
Semi-analytical formulas for the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram
Authors: Zaninetti L.
Published: December 2008

The absolute visual magnitude as function of the observed color (B-V), also named Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, can be described through five equations; that when calibrated stars are available means eight constants. The developed framework allows to deduce the remaining physical parameters, mass, radius and luminosity. This new technique is applied to the first 10 pc, the first 50 pc, the Hyades and to the determination of the distance of a cluster. The case of the white dwarfs is analyzed assuming the absence of calibrated data: our equation produces a smaller ?2 with respect to the standard color-magnitude calibration when applied to the Villanova Catalog of Spectroscopically Identified White Dwarfs. The theoretical basis of the formulas for the colors and the bolometric correction of the stars is clarified by a Taylor expansion in the temperature of the Planck distribution.
Propagation of high frequency waves in the quiet solar atmosphere
Authors: Andic A.
Published: December 2008

High-frequency waves (5 mHz to 20 mHz) have previously been suggested as a source of energy accounting for partial heating of the quiet solar atmosphere. The dynamics of previously detected high-frequency waves is analyzed here. Image sequences were taken by using the German Vacuum Tower Telescope (VTT), Observatorio del Teide, Izana, Tenerife, with a Fabry-Perot spectrometer. The data were speckle reduced and analyzed with wavelets. Wavelet phase-difference analysis was performed to determine whether the waves propagate. We observed the propagation of waves in the frequency range 10 mHz to 13 mHz. We also observed propagation of low-frequency waves in the ranges where they are thought to be evanescent in the regions where magnetic structures are present.
Corrections to the Hipparcos proper motions in declination for 807 stars
Authors: Damljanovic G. , Pejovic N.
Published: December 2008

We used the data on latitude variations obtained from observations with 10 classical photographic zenith tubes (PZT) in order to improve the Hipparcos proper motions in declinations ?? for 807 stars. Part of observing programmes, carried out during the last century for the purpose of studying the Earth's rotation, were realized by using PZT instruments. These observations were performed within in the intervals (tens of years) much longer than that of the Hipparcos mission (less than 4 years). In addition, the annual number of observations for every PZT programme star is several hundreds on the average. Though the accuracy of the star coordinates in the Hipparcos Catalogue is by two orders of magnitude better than that of the star coordinates from the PZT observations, the large number of observations performed a much longer time interval makes it possible to correct the Hipparcos proper motions and to improve their accuracy with respect to the accuracy given in the Hipparcos Catalogue. Long term examinations of latitude and time variations were used to form the Earth Orientation Catalogue (EOC-2), aimed at a more accurate determination of positions and proper motions for the stars included. Our method of calculating the corrections of the proper motions in declination from the latitude variations is different from the method used in obtaining the EOC-2 Catalogue. Comparing the results we have established a good agreement between our ?? and the EOC-2 ones for the star sample used in the present paper.
Optimality conditions and duality in multiobjective programming with invexity
Authors: Ferrara Massimiliano , Viorica-Stefanescu Maria
Published: December 2008

(', ?)-invexity has recently been introduced with the intent of generalizing invex functions in mathematical programming. Using such conditions we obtain new sufficiency results for optimality in multiobjective programming and extend some classical duality properties.
Reduced 10-Year Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Patients Who Participated in a Community-Based Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Lipscomb Elaine R. , Finch Emily A. , Brizendine Edward , Saha Chandan K. , Hays Laura M. , Ackermann Ronald T.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—We evaluated whether participation in a community-based group diabetes prevention program might lead to relative changes in composite 10-year coronary heart disease (CHD) risk for overweight adults with abnormal glucose metabolism.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We used the UK Prospective Diabetes Study engine to estimate CHD risk for group-lifestyle and brief counseling (control) groups. Between-group risk changes after 4 and 12 months were compared using ANCOVA.

RESULTS—Baseline 10-year risk was similar between treatment groups (P = 0.667). At 4 and 12 months, the intervention group experienced significant decreases in 10-year risk from baseline (−3.28%, P < 0.001; and −2.23%, P = 0.037) compared with control subjects (−0.78%, P = 0.339; and +1.88%, P = 0.073). Between-group differences were statistically significant and increased from the 4- to 12-month visits.

CONCLUSIONS—Community-based delivery of the Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle intervention could be a promising strategy to prevent both CHD and type 2 diabetes in adults with pre-diabetes.
Preparation and evaluation of an ispaghula based directly compressible matrixing agent for controlled release
Authors: Lalwani Anita , Parikh Jolly
Published: December 2008

Preparation and evaluation of an ispaghula based directly compressible matrixing agent for controlled release

The objective of the present investigation was to prepare and evaluate an ispaghula husk based directly compressible (DC) adjuvant that can be used as matrixing agent using an agglomeration technique. Addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose was found necessary to improve cohesion. Lactose (X1), calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (X2) and Avicel PH101 (X3), used along with ispaghula in preparation of agglomerates, were selected as three independent variables in a simplex lattice design affecting compressional and dissolution characteristics of the drug from the DC adjuvant. The agglomerates were evaluated for their flow properties. Tablets were prepared using 70% agglomerates and 30% acetaminophen, a poorly compressible drug, and were subjected toin vitrodrug release study. Amounts of the drug released at the end of 60 min (Y60), 300 min (Y300) and 480 min (Y480) were selected as dependent variables in a simplex lattice design. Batch IH05 that contained lactose and calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate in a 1:2 ratio could control the release for 12 hours and thus form the basis for twice a-day-dosing.
Antibacterial drug resistance and equine practice
Authors: Traub‐Dargatz J. L. , Dargatz D. A.
Published: December 2008

The equine practitioner is in a position to make day‐to‐day decisions regarding antimicrobial drug (AMD) use for their patients as well as to educate their clients regarding judicious use. General guidelines regarding judicious use of AMDs in equine patients have been developed by the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Detailed guidelines for AMD use in specific equine diseases supported by clinical trials and results of surveillance studies focused on resistance among equine bacterial pathogens are lacking. Studies that could lead to detailed and justifiable use recommendations would allow the equine practitioner to make more informed decisions regarding when to use AMDs, which drugs should be used and how they should be used (e.g. dose, route and duration).
Using focus groups to teach social science research practice
Authors: Lindsay Jo
Published: December 2008

Contemporary undergraduate courses in research methods are challenging to teach because of the wide scope of the subject matter, limited student contact hours and the complexity of supervising research projects undertaken by novices. Focus group assignments within class offer an interesting and enjoyable way for students to develop and apply research skills and reflect on the process of being both a researcher and a research participant in social science disciplines. Using focus groups enables deep learning, formative assessment and the development of reflexive research skills. This article discusses the use of focus group assignments as a key assessment tool in a Sociological research methods course taught at Monash University, Australia. The use of focus groups as a teaching tool is further assessed through analysing the reflections and evaluations given by students participating in the course.
Visual matters in learning and teaching
Authors: Howson Alexandra
Published: December 2008

This article reports on the incorporation of visual material as a tool for learning sociology and discusses a poster assignment introduced as a means of assessment in an academic context committed to innovative learning strategies and to teaching and learning enhancement. The article draws on an evaluation of using the poster assignment to assess student learning and argues that visual images can provide valid and insightful ways of 'telling about society' which challenge the reliance on text as a means of teaching and learning sociology. The article explores the context in which visual materials are used in teaching and learning sociology and their impact on and significance for assessment and learning.
The Good Citizen: problematising citizenship in the social sciences curriculum
Authors: Burnett Judith , Cudworth Erika
Published: December 2008

This article explores the critical pedagogical issues that emerge when attempting to develop active citizenship among undergraduates as an integral part of the student experience. It presents part of the findings from a C-SAP-funded project (Gifford et al. 2006) that we undertook with a partner higher education institution. This article explores our particular contribution carried out in a post-1992 London higher education institution. Our innovations in the social sciences undergraduate curriculum aimed at creating situations in which students would explore the diversity of citizenship in educational settings, namely, a local school, a further education college, and Summerhill School (founded by A.S. Neill). The research leads us to conclude that citizenship is a problem of praxis influenced and shaped by the local-global contexts of communities with diverse heritages of meaning, stratified social settings, and specific local and historical characteristics. This challenges the notions underpinning the Crick curriculum with its national orientation, and demonstrates the need to sensitise citizenship learning experiences to the needs of students and staff embedded in their social contexts. Such an approach can be understood as a form of situated citizenship characterised by active engagement with an assumption of heterogeneity which is positively sensitive to diversity.
Heat Transfer by Natural Convection through V-Corrugated Plates
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Hasanuzzaman M
Published: December 2008

An experimental investigation is performed on natural convection heat transfer through a square enclosure of V-corrugated vertical plates. The objective of this investigation is to study the variation of heat transfer rate through the square enclosure with the variation of both hot and cold plate temperatures. Hot plate temperature is varied by heat input. To vary cold plate temperature two parameters are considered: one is mass flow rate of water used to remove heat from cold plate and the other is the inlet temperature of water. Air is the media to transfer heat from the hot V-corrugated plate to cold V-corrugated plate. The result shows that the increase of mass flow rate increases the heat transfer rate and the decrease of water inlet temperature increases the heat transfer rate.Journal of Mechanical Engineering Vol.36 Dec. 2006 pp.1-5DOI = 10.3329/jme.v36i0.804
Mathematical Analysis of Finger Positions of a Spherical Linkage Metamorphic Robot Palm
Authors: Khan Mujibur Rahman , Dai Jian S
Published: December 2008

Grasping is the main function performed by the mechanical hand. Mechanisms with more functionality are needed for secure grasping of different and complex objects. With the advancement of the field of robotics it is important to think of mechanisms of multifingered robot hand with added functionality. The metamorphic mechanism with spherical linkage opens a wide opportunity to design a multi fingered robot hand with spherical palm, which can achieve human like dexterity. On the basis of an intensive study of literature, this paper focuses on the development of a geometrical model and mathematical analysis of spherical robot palm with fingers attached to it. To develop the generalised mathematical model, the co-ordinate transformation matrices of the joint axis position and the finger position have been derived. The transformation matrices have been derived with the position and orientation of the links and finger positions. So the co-ordinate points of a point of interest in the three dimensional space can be described at different configuration state of the mechanism. The detail analysis has been done through this mathematical and geometrical modelling of five-bar spherical metamorphic linkage robotic palm. This mathematical and geometrical model can be used to inspect the feasibility of the mechanism design for a multi fingered robot palm.Â Journal of Mechanical Engineering Vol.36 Dec. 2006 pp.18-26DOI = 10.3329/jme.v36i0.807
Investigation on the Optimum Design of Heat Exchangers in a Hybrid Closed Circuit Cooling Tower
Authors: Sarker MMA
Published: December 2008

Investigation on the optimum design of a heat exchanger in a Hybrid Closed Circuit Cooling Tower having a rated capacity of 1RT is performed experimentally. The heat exchanger of dimension 0.4mx0.33mx0.572m has 15x7 bare type 15.88mm OD copper coils in staggered arrangement. The relevant design parameters were selected based on the typical East Asian meteorological constrains for the year-round smooth operation of the cooling tower. This study presents results related to the cooling capacity and the cooling efficiency with respect to wet bulb temperature and pressure drop with respect to air inlet velocity. Results are also presented in terms of number of transfer units (NTU). Cooling capacity was found to be close to the rated one for the wet mode but low in dry mode operation. Keywords: Hybrid closed circuit cooling tower, Cooling capacity, Wet mode, Dry modedoi:10.3329/jme.v37i0.820Journal of Mechanical Engineering Vol.37 June 2007, pp.52-77
Effects of the shape of surface micropores on the performance of a face seal
Authors: Razzaque M Mahbubur , Faisal M Tanvir Rahman
Published: December 2008

A mathematical model is developed for the prediction of performance of a mechanical face seal with regular microstructure on its surface in the form of pores. Pores of right circular cylindrical, hemispherical and exponential profiles have been considered. A two dimensional steady state Reynolds equation is solved to get the hydrodynamic pressure distribution on an imaginary control area around a single pore. Consequently, the seal performance parameters such as seal clearance, friction torque and leakage across the seal are calculated. A parametric analysis is done for right circular cylindrical pores for a range of sealed pressure, pore size and pore ratio. Increase of pore ratio improves the seal performance up to a pore ratio of 12%, beyond which no improvement of the seal performance is possible. The optimum pore size depends on the sealed pressure as well as on the pore profile. Through a comparison of the performance of face seals with different pore profiles hemispherical pores are recommended for enhancement of performance. For any pore profile, the seal performance improves with the increase of pore depth as long as the depth is less than 1.5 times of the pore radius. Keywords: Face seal, seal performance, surface micropore, pore profile, pore ratio.DOI: 10.3329/jme.v38i0.897 Journal of Mechanical Engineering Vol.38 Dec. 2007 pp.25-31
Estimation of the self-similarity parameter in long memory processes
Authors: Sarker MMA
Published: December 2008

Long memory processes, where positive correlations between observations far apart in time and space decay very slowly to zero with increasing time lag, occur quite frequently in fields such as hydrology and economics. Stochastic processes that are invariant in distribution under judicious scaling of time and space, called self-similar process, can parsimoniously model the long-run properties of phenomena exhibiting long-range dependence. Four of the heuristic estimation approaches have been presented in this study so that the self-similarity parameter, H that gives the correlation structure in long memory processes, can be effectively estimated. Finally, the methods presented in this paper were applied to two observed time series, namely Nile River Data set and the VBR (Variable- Bit-Rate) data set. The estimated values of H for two data sets found from different methods suggest that all methods are not equally good for estimation. Keywords: Long memory process, long-range dependence, Self-similar process, Hurst Parameter, Gaussian noise. DOI: 10.3329/jme.v38i0.898 Journal of Mechanical Engineering Vol.38 Dec. 2007 pp.32-37
Revised Subjects of the Current Korean Oriental Pharmacists' Licensing Examination
Authors: Lim Jong-Pil , Hong Seon-Pyo , Lee Young-Mi , Jeon Hoon
Published: December 2008

This study is designed to draw out new integrated subjects of the Korean Oriental Pharmacists??Licensing Examination (KOPLE). In 2004, for the revision of subjects, we have analyzed the curriculums of the Oriental Pharmacy department, the oriental pharmacist?占퐏 (OP?占퐏) job description book, and the elementary items of KOPLE. We also examined the system of the Chinese Herb Pharmacists??Examination and other health personnel licensing examinations and studied the data of items and compared them with KOPLE. We heard the public opinion on the present KOPLE. We developed a subfield of 18 subjects, a middle category of 188 items, and a small category of 1,026 items. We proposed a new KOPLE that consists of three subjects: basic oriental pharmacy, applied oriental pharmacy, and laws and regulations.
Caffeic Acid Derivatives from Eupatorium perfoliatum L.
Authors: Maas Mareike , Petereit Frank , Hensel Andreas
Published: December 2008

From the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of a methanol/water extract of the herb Eupatorium perfoliatum L. (Asteraceae) six caffeic acid derivatives have been isolated and identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopic data. Besides the common quinic acid derivatives 5-caffeoylquinic acid (chlorogenic acid), 3-caffeoylquinic acid (neochlorogenic acid) and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, three up to now unknown depsides of caffeic acid with glucaric acid have been isolated: 2,5-dicaffeoylglucaric acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylglucaric acid, and 2,4- or 3,5-dicaffeoylglucaric acid.
MULTICRITERIA SELECTION OF PROJECT MANAGERS BY APPLYING GREY CRITERIA / PROJEKTŲ VALDYTOJO PARINKIMO DAUGIATIKSLIO VERTINIMO MODELIS
Authors: Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Turskis Zenonas , Tamošaitienė Jolanta
Published: December 2008

There is a number of criteria and associated sub‐criteria influencing the match of managers to construction projects. Criteria and sub‐criteria were identified based on a thorough review of the related literature and interviews of management personnel involved in the project managers selection. Project managers characteristics are considered to be less important for an effective project management. The model is based on multicriteria evaluation of project managers. The evaluation embraces the identified criteria influencing the process of construction project manager selection. This paper considers the application of grey relations methodology to defining the utility of alternatives, and offers a multiple criteria method of Complex Proportional Assessment of alternatives with grey relations (COPRAS‐G) for analysis. In this model, the parameters of the alternatives are determined by the grey relational grade and expressed in terms of intervals. A case study presents the selection of construction project manager. The results obtained show that this method may be used as an effective decision aid in multicriteria selection. Santrauka Rodiklių ir susietų subrodiklių skaičius daro poveikį statybos projektų vadovo parinkimui. Išnagrinėjus literatūrą buvo atrinkti pagrindiniai rodikliai, turintys įtaką projektų valdytojo atrankai. Išskirtos svarbiausios projektų valdytojo charakteristikos, gerinančios efektyvų statybos projektų valdymą. Projektų valdytojo modelis pagrįstas daugiatikslio vertinimo metodais. Straipsnyje apžvelgtas intervalais išreikštų sprendinių metodologijos pritaikymas, apibrėžtas alternatyvų naudingumas. Pateiktas daugiatikslio vertinimo kompleksinio proporcingumo įvertinimo metodas naudojant intervalais išreikštus rodiklius intervalais (COPRAS-G). Pateikiamame modelyje alternatyvų parametrai išreikšti intervalais, alternatyvos ranguojamos, nustatomas jų prioritetas. Sprendžiamas uždavinio pavyzdys rodo efektyvų statybos projektų valdytojo parinkimą. Tai iliustruoja gauti rezultatai.
MONITORING OF CONSTRUCTION PROCESSES IN THE VARIABLE ENVIRONMENT / STATYBOS PROCESŲ STEBĖSENA KINTANČIOJE APLINKOJE
Authors: Karlowski Andrzej , Paslawski Jerzy
Published: December 2008

Interference problems of construction processes are especially disturbing due to their big scope of variability, uncertainty and complexity what significantly hinders planning and accomplishing the production processes on the building site. Monitoring of environment (which generates interference) and processes in progress enable to undertake activities aiming at introducing flexibility in managing of processes which may significantly increase the efficiency of systems ensuring quality in building. The described CONLI (CONcrete on‐LIne) system is an effective device of monitoring which enables the transfer of information in real time to different decision‐makers (e.g. site manager, supervision inspector, investor and the like) owing to wireless transmission and hybrid structure taking into account diverse scope of access depending on requirements of maintaining necessary data confidentiality. Santrauka Statybos procesų trikdžiai yra ypač pastebimi dėl savo didelio kintamumo, neapibrėžtumo ir kompleksiškumo. Jie daro dilelę įtaką planavimo ir vykdymo procesams. Aplinkos, sukeliančios trikdžių, ir vykstančių procesų stebėsena sudaro galimybę lanksčiau valdyti procesus, o tai labai pagerina statybos kokybę užtikrinančių sistemų veikimo efektyvumą. Aprašyta CONLI sistema, kuri yra efektyvi priemonė, leidžianti realiuoju laiku keistis informacija tarp įvairių sprendimų priėmėjų (pavyzdžiui, statybos vadovų, techninės priežiūros inspektorių, investuotojų ir pan.), turinčių bevielę duomenų perdavimo sistemą ir hibridinę struktūrą. Sistema užtikrina prieigą prie įvairios apimties informacijos ir garantuoja reikiamą jos konfidencialumą.
DETERMINATION OF THE RELATIVE IMPORTANCE OF CRITERIA WHEN THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE JUDGING IS A SMALL SAMPLE / SANTYKINIO RODIKLIO REIKŠMINGUMO NUSTATYMAS, KAI VERTINANČIŲ ASMENŲ SKAIČIUS NEDIDELIS
Authors: Thiel Tomasz
Published: December 2008

In the multicriterial decision aid (MCDA) process, specific information is given illustrating the preferences of a decision‐maker or a group of stakeholders taking part in this process. One kind of information about the preferences is the relative importance of criteria. In the article it was put forward a proposition of settling the division of variability of value of a relative importance of criteria for the case when a group of people (one stakeholder's representatives) is involved in constituting the so‐called a small sample (n < 30). In the first place the homogeneity of the given information applying statistical‐descriptive and positional measures was analysed. Then it was proposed to accept the confidence intervals (with the supposed value of the first kind of error) as a basis for determining the variability scope of the relative importance of individual criteria. The differences in the variability ol the individual criteria were determined according to the average arithmetical value calculated in the analysed test among those giving information. The application of the interval estimation constitutes the basis for carrying out of the sensitivity analysis of the final result obtained by the accepted MCDA method. In the analysed decision problem the Electre III method was used. Santrauka Daugiatiksliame sprendimų priėmimo procese charakteringa informacija išreiškia vieno sprendimų priėmėjo arba grupės dalyvių prioritetus. Tai gali būti santykinis rodiklio reikšmingumas. Straipsnyje nagrinėjamas atvejis, kai santykiniam reikšmingumui nustatyti pasitelkta maža grupė asmenų (n < 30). Iš pradžių, taikant statistinius metodus, buvo analizuojamas informacijos homogeniškumas. Toliau buvo pasiūlyta taikyti pasikliautinąjį intervalą (su numatoma paklaidos reikšme) kaip bazę konkretaus santykinio rodiklio reikšmingumo kintamumui nustatyti. Naudojant vidutines aritmetines reikšmes nustatyti atskirų rodiklių kintamumo skirtumai. Nustatyti intervalai naudoti atliekant galutinio rezultato, gauto pasirinktu daugiatiksliu sprendimų priėmimo metodu, jautrumo analizę. Sprendimui priimti taikytas Elektre III metodas.
HISTORY AND EVOLVING TRENDS OF CONSTRUCTION COLLOQUIA ON SUSTAINABILITY AND OPERATIONAL RESEARCH / STATYBOS KOLOKVIUMO „SUBALANSUOTUMAS IR OPERACINIAI TYRIMAI“ ISTORIJA IR ATEITIES TENDENCIJOS
Authors: Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras
Published: December 2008

The article presents development and trends of international cooperation between three academic centers from Germany, Poland and Lithuania. The review of results of 11 conferences have been presented: exchange of experience (1986–2008), integration of academic community, support for promotional works constitute goals of these meetings. Decision‐making methods, multi‐criteria optimization and sustainability were the subject of the cooperation. All eleven colloquiums were organized by the same researchers and there were published tens of books and more than 350 scientific articles related to the mentioned colloquia. The most important scientific trends and the results achieved are examined in the paper. Santrauka Straipsnyje aptariama tarptautinio bendradarbiavimo plėtra ir tendencijos tarp trijų akademinių centrų – Vokietijos, Lenkijos ir Lietuvos, apžvelgti vienuolikos konferencijų rezultatai: patirties pasidalijimas (1986–2008), integracija į akademinę bendruomenę, parama tolesniems darbams, kertiniai susitikimų tikslai. Pagrindinė bendradarbiavimo dingstis – sprendimų priėmimo metodai, daugiakriterinis optimizavimas ir darnioji plėtra. Visi vienuolika kolokviumų buvo organizuoti tų pačių mokslininkų. Remiantis kolokviumo medžiaga buvo išspausdinta dešimtys knygų ir daugiau nei 350 mokslinių straipsnių. Čia apžvelgtos pačios svarbiausios mokslinės tendencijos ir išanalizuoti pasiekti rezultatai.
APPROACH TO INNOVATIVE ACTIVITIES BY LITHUANIAN COMPANIES IN THE CURRENT CONDITIONS OF DEVELOPMENT / LIETUVOS ĮMONIŲ POŽIŪRIS Į INOVACINĘ VEIKLĄ DABARTINIO VYSTYMOSI SĄLYGOMIS
Authors: Adekola Abel , Korsakienė Renata , Tvaronavičienė Manuela
Published: December 2008

The paper aims to reveal the approach of Lithuanian companies towards innovations. In order to take into account conditions, specific to the considered country an, overview of Lithuanian economy with a closer look at demographic and employment tendencies is presented; analysis of statistically estimated innovation performance and state innovation policy performed. Insight into factors driving innovations into Lithuanian business companies is being made through questioning the randomly chosen 1001 Lithuanian business companies. The performed survey allows us to disclose how companies react to factors fostering and restricting innovations, how they perceive role of state policy in the process of innovative activities. Obtained results provide us with empirical evidences how business companies react to specific economic conditions, and if there is a sufficient correspondence between educational system and supply of know‐how susceptible employees demanded by business companies. Santrauka Straipsnio tikslas – atskleisti Lietuvos įmonių požiūrį į inovacinę veiklą. Siekiant atsižvelgti į specifines šalies sąlygas, pateikiama Lietuvos ekonomikos apžvalga, daugiau dėmesio teikiama emigracijos ir nedarbo tendencijoms, pateikiama statistinė inovacinės veiklos ir šalies inovacijų politikos apžvalga. Pagrindinius veiksnius, lemiančius inovacijų kūrimą Lietuvos verslo įmonėse, padeda atskleisti atsitiktinai pasirinktos 1001 įmonės apklausa. Ši apklausa parodo, kaip įmonės reaguoja į veiksnius, skatinančius ir ribojančius inovacijas, kaip vykstant inovacinės veiklos procesui įmonės vertina valstybės inovacijų politiką. Gauti rezultatai leidžia daryti išvadas apie įmonių reakciją į specifines ekonomines sąlygas bei kvalifikuotos darbo jėgos pasiūlos ir paklausos lygį.
MANAGEMENT AND CHANGE IN TURBULENT TIMES: HOW DO RUSSIAN SMALL BUSINESS MANAGERS PERCEIVE THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT?
Authors: Jumpponen Jari , Ikävalko Markku , Pihkala Timo
Published: December 2008

This paper focuses on the management of small businesses in Russia. Despite the growing importance of the Russian small business sector, there are surprisingly few empirical studies focusing on this topic. As the business environment in Russia is repeatedly noted to be in constant change, the purpose of the paper is to explore Russian owner‐managers perceptions of the development of their business environment from 2000 to 2004. The paper reports the results of a survey conducted among 164 business managers in North‐West Russia. The results indicate that Russian owner‐managers tend to monitor changes in the business environment and adapt their management accordingly, if not beforehand. However, the results are not unambiguous, as the study found wide variations in the extent to which gap the managers monitored and adapted to perceived changes in the business environment.
ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE STRATEGIES IN THE ARAB REGION: A REVIEW OF CRITICAL FACTORS
Authors: Rees Christopher J. , Althakhri Rashid
Published: December 2008

This conceptual paper explores the subject of organizational change in the Arab region with particular reference to cultural influences on organizational change initiatives in this region. The paper offers a review of a set of studies which focus on organizational change in Arab countries and proceeds to discuss change initiatives with reference to factors such as Islam and tribalism. A key issue that emerges from the paper is the paradox between Western approaches to change which emphasize collaborative and participative approaches to change management, and the more directive and hierarchical approaches to management associated with national cultures in the Arab region. Areas for future research are identified in the conclusion section.
ROLE OF POLITICS IN PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE
Authors: Sepper Ruth , Alas Ruth
Published: December 2008

In this paper we will address issues of organizational changes in public sector where the relevance of management has not diminished during the last two decades of the neo‐liberal market philosophy. Public sector organizations are susceptible to greater and more open accountability with politicians, pressure groups, taxpayers and voters all having an interest in the performance of it. In late 1990s Estonian government initiated reforms of health care system in the country. Estonian Hospital Master Plan (EHMP) 2015 was launched in 2000 which, within the others, was initiating the merge of seven Tallinn hospitals into North Estonian Regional Hospital (NERH). To evaluate efficacy of organizational changes during implementation of EHMP‐model into health care system in Estonia we utilized personal interviews of top and middle managers and annual reports of merged hospitals to benchmark these measures to earlier merged Univerity Hopsital and other EU hospitals. We conclude that even NERH was established and the reform‐initiated changes were mostly introduced by the deviation from first‐line governmental plans and introduction of new political directions in 2003 lead to new organizational changes and managerial efforts to gain the goals with, unfortunately, prolonged change process.