bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value-based management and corporate governance: A study of Serbian corporations
Authors: Stancic Predrag , Todorovic Miroslav , Cupic Milan
Published: July 2012

The aim of this paper is to determine the place and role of corporate
governance and performance measures in the efforts of managers to maximize
shareholder value, and the attitude of Serbian corporations toward these
issues. The paper first analyses the importance of corporate governance and
performance measures in the context of value-based management. Then, through
the multiple case study, we investigate the attitude of seven Serbian
corporations toward defining the general corporate objective, corporate
governance, and performance measurement. Finally, we point out the factors
and preconditions that determine corporate culture, objective definition, and
performance measures used by Serbian corporations.
Steady thermal stress and strain rates in a circular cylinder with non-homogeneous compressibility subjected to thermal load
Authors: Pankaj Thakur
Published: July 2012

The non-homogeneity is assumed due to variation of modulus of compression. It
has seen that in the presence of temperature, a cylinder made of
non-homogeneous material k<0 (Non-homogeneity is less at internal surface
than at outer surface) require high pressure to become fully plastic as is
required for initial yielding and this pressure goes on increasing with the
increases in temperature, showing that a cylinder made of non-homogeneous
material k<0 is on the safer side of design. For homogeneous case, it has
been observed that the circumferential stress has maximum value at the
external surface of the cylinder made of incompressible material as compared
to compressible material. For Homogeneous case, with effects of temperature
reduces the stresses at the external surface of the cylinder in comparison to
pressure effects only. Strain rates are found to be maximum at the internal
surface of the cylinder made of compressible material and they decrease with
the radius. With the introduction of temperature effect, the creep rates have
higher values at the internal surface but lesser values at the external
surface as compare to a cylinder subjected to pressure only.
The second law analysis of natural gas behavior within a vortex tube
Authors: Kargaran Mahyar , Arabkoohsar A. , Hagighat-Hosini S.J. , Farzaneh-Kord V. , Farzaneh-Gord Mahmood
Published: July 2012

Vortex tube is a simple device without a moving part which is capable of
separating hot and cold gas streams from a higher pressure inlet gas stream.
The mechanism of energy separation has been investigated by several
scientists and second law approach has emerged as an important tool for
optimizing the vortex tube performance. Here, a thermodynamic model has been
used to investigate vortex tube energy separation. Further, a method has been
proposed for optimizing the vortex tube based on the rate of entropy
generation obtained from experiments. Also, an experimental study has been
carried out to investigate the effects of the hot tube length and cold
orifice diameter on entropy generation within a vortex tube with natural gas
as working fluid. A comparison has been made between air and natural gas as
working fluids. The results show that the longest tube generates lowest
entropy for NG. For air, it is middle tube which generates lowest entropy.
Integration of entropy generation for all available cold mass fractions
unveiled that an optimized value for hot tube length and cold orifice
diameter is exist.
Influence of thermal radiation and heat generation/absorption on MHD heat transfer flow of a micropolar fluid past a wedge considering hall and ion slip currents
Authors: Uddin Ziya , Kumar Manoj , Harmand Souad
Published: July 2012

In this paper a numerical model is developed to examine the effect of thermal
radiation on magnetohydrodynamic heat transfer flow of a micropolar fluid
past a non-conducting wedge in presence of heat source/sink. In the model it
is assumed that the fluid is viscous, incompressible and electrically
conducting. The Hall and ion slip effects have also been taken into
consideration. The model contains highly non-linear coupled partial
differential equations which have been converted into ordinary differential
equation by using the similarity transformations. These equations are then
solved numerically by Shooting technique along with the Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg
integration scheme for entire range of parameters with appropriate boundary
conditions. The effects of various parameters involved in the problem have
been studied with the help of graphs. Numerical values of skin friction
coefficients and Nusselt number are presented in tabular form. The results
showed that the micropolar fluids are better to reduce local skin drag as
compared to Newtonian fluids and the presence of heat sink increases the
heat transfer rate.
Hall effect on thermal stability of ferromagnetic fluid in porous medium in the presence of horizontal magnetic field
Authors: Aggarwal Amrish , Makhija Suman
Published: July 2012

This paper deals with the theoretical investigation of the effect of Hall
currents on the thermal stability of a ferromagnetic fluid heated from below
in porous medium. For a fluid layer between two free boundaries, an exact
solution is obtained using a linearized stability theory and normal mode
analysis. A dispersion relation governing the effects of medium permeability,
a uniform horizontal magnetic field, magnetization and Hall currents is
derived. For the case of stationary convection, it is found that the magnetic
field and magnetization have a stabilizing effect on the system, as such
their effect is to postpone the onset of thermal instability whereas Hall
currents are found to hasten the onset of thermal instability. The medium
permeability hastens the onset of convection under certain conditions. The
principle of exchange of stabilities is not valid for the problem under
consideration whereas in the absence of Hall currents (hence magnetic field),
it is valid under certain conditions.
Assessment and potential use of concentrating solar power plants in Serbia and Republic of Srpska
Authors: Pavlovic Tomislav , Radonjic Ivana , Milosavljevic Dragana , Pantic Lana , Pirsl Danica
Published: July 2012

Data assessment and potential use of concentrating solar power (CSP) plants
in Serbia and the Republic of Srpska are given in the paper. Besides, CSP
plants schematics and manner of their functioning are described. Then follows
geographical position and the results of PVGIS calculation of the yearly
average values of the solar irradiation on horizontal, vertical and optimally
inclined plane, optimal inclination, linke turbidity, ratio of diffuse to
global solar irradiation, average daytime temperature and 24 hours average of
temperature for some locations in Europe where CSP plants are installed or
are in construction, and in some cities in Serbia and the Republic of Srpska.
The paper also gives comparative surveys of the solar irradiation on
horizontal plane and ratio of diffuse to global solar irradiation on some
locations in Europe with installed and CSP plants in construction, and in
some cities in Serbia and the Republic of Srpska. Data for Direct Normal
Irradiance (DNI) for locations in Europe with installed or CSP plants under
construction, and for some other cities in Serbia and the Republic of Srpska
are also given. Data for DNI were obtained by means of SWERA. In the light of
the obtained results it was concluded that Serbia and the Republic of Srpska
have favorable climatic and geographical conditions for the installation of
the experimental CSP plants, and the area of Trebinje in the Republic of
Srpska has favorable conditions for commercial CSP plants installation.
The Dark Side of Online Knowledge Sharing (Retracted)
Authors: Smith Antoinette L. , Baxter Ryan J. , Boss Scott R. , Hunton James E.
Published: July 2012

Given the growing trend of electronic networks of practice and the growing propensity of individuals to rely on the Internet for problem solving, we examine whether programmers in a hypothetical situation would be likely to disclose confidential information through an online forum in attempt to solve a programming problem. We hypothesize and find in a survey of 187 programmers that online forum commitment and trust lead to greater online forum participation, which in turn predicts a higher likelihood of confidential information disclosure. We also find that programmers with greater awareness of security policies exhibit a lower likelihood of deciding to risk disclosing confidential information. The study contributes to extant literature by raising and exploring the potentially negative, dark side of knowledge sharing through electronic networks of practice.
Use of cecal bypass via side-to-side ileocolic anastomosis without ileal transection for treatment of ileocecal intussusception in a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Reed Shannon K. , Middleton John R. , Ringen Davin , Nagy Dusty
Published: July 2012

Case Description—A 5-year-old castrated male Vietnamese pot-bellied pig (Sus scrofa) was evaluated because of anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Clinical Findings—Hypermotile gastrointestinal sounds were noted on abdominal auscultation. An inflammatory leukogram, dehydration, prerenal azotemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia, hyperproteinemia, hyperglobulinemia, hypomagnesemia, and high γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity were identified. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed distended loops of small intestine.

Treatment—IV fluid therapy and analgesic treatment were unsuccessful in the resolution of clinical signs. Exploratory laparotomy revealed an ileocecal intussusception involving the distal portion of the ileum. Distal ileal and cecal bypass were achieved via side-to-side anastomosis of the proximal portion of the ileum and spiral colon with a gastrointestinal anastomosis stapler. Ileal transection or occlusion was not performed. Postoperative complications were minimal, and the pig was clinically normal 15 months after surgery and required no special care or diet.

Clinical Relevance—Distal ileal and cecal bypass without ileal transection have not been described previously in Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. Anastomosis of the proximal portion of the ileum to the spiral colon without major complications represents a novel, technically simple approach to bypass of the distal portion of the ileum and cecum.
On variational impulsive boundary value problems
Authors: Galewski Marek
Published: July 2012

Using the variational approach, we investigate the existence of solutions and their dependence on functional parameters for classical solutions to the second order impulsive boundary value Dirichlet problems with L1 right hand side.
Duality on the quantum space(3) with two parameters
Authors: Özavşar Muttalip , Yeşilot Gürsel
Published: July 2012

In this study, we introduce a dual Hopf algebra in the sense of Sudbery for the quantum space(3) whose coordinates satisfy the commutation relations with two parameters and we show that the dual algebra is isomorphic to the quantum Lie algebra corresponding to the Cartan-Maurer right invariant differential forms on the quantum space(3). We also observe that the quantum Lie algebra generators are commutative as those of the undeformed Lie algebra and the deformation becomes apparent when one studies the Leibniz rules for the generators.
Endoscopic classifications of esophageal changes in chagasic megaesophagus
Authors: Morita Shinhiti , Morita Flavio , Pereira de Godoy José
Published: July 2012

The objective of this report is to propose a classification of endoscopic changes for chagasic megaesophagus based on macroscopic findings. Thirty patients with advanced megaesophagus surgically treated using the Doria Serra technique (1968)3 were enrolled in this quasi-randomized study. All participants were treated in the Surgical Department of Hospital de Base of the Medicine School in São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), Brazil from January 1995 to December 1999. The ages of the 17 male (56.6%) and 13 female (43.3%) patients ranged from 38 to 71 years. All participants were submitted to esophagogastroduodenal endoscopy with the following classification being proposed: mild, moderate and severe esophagitis. The current study demonstrates a correlation between the classifications of endoscopic changes and the degree of histological alterations of the esophageal mucosa in chagasic megaesophagus. Thus, this is a novel option for endoscopic evaluation of patients with this disease.
The 1st Conference on Contemporary Problems of Geochemistry
Authors: Migaszewski Zdzisław , Gałuszka Agnieszka
Published: July 2012

The 1st Conference on Contemporary Problems of Geochemistry
Use of sulphur and carbon stable-isotope composition of fish scales and muscles to identify the origin of fish
Authors: Trembaczowski Andrzej
Published: July 2012

Use of sulphur and carbon stable-isotope composition of fish scales and muscles to identify the origin of fish

δ34S and δ13C analyses were used to determine the origin of trout specimens. The isotope record of their scales and muscles are compared with a database previously obtained from wild- and reared fish coming from Polish rivers and pond farms. The comparison made it possible to find out whether the trout were wild or reared.
Geochemistry of waters and bottom sediments in landslide lakes in Babiogórski National Park
Authors: Sala Dariusz , Rzepa Grzegorz
Published: July 2012

Geochemistry of waters and bottom sediments in landslide lakes in Babiogórski National Park

The aim of this work was to assess the contamination of the landslide lakes located within Babiogórski National Park. For this purpose, samples of water and bottom sediment from 12 lakes were collected. Chemical analyses of the waters (including main cation and anion concentrations, trace-metal levels and selected physicochemical parameters) and of the sediments (including heavy metals) were performed. The waters are acidic to neutral and are characterized by low mineralization. Concentrations of trace elements are commonly low. Elevated levels of Fe, Mn and Al are probably related to natural geochemical processes. The sediments are strongly contaminated by Cd, whereas other trace metals levels are at their hydrogeochemical background. The high level of Cd contamination is most probably related to long-range industrial emissions.
Rotational Preference in Gymnastics
Authors: Heinen Thomas , Jeraj Damian , Vinken Pia , Velentzas Konstantinos
Published: July 2012

Rotational Preference in Gymnastics

In gymnastics, most skills incorporate rotations about one or more body axes. At present, the question remains open if factors such as lateral preference and/or vestibulo-spinal asymmetry are related to gymnast's rotational preference. Therefore, we sought to explore relationships in gymnast's rotation direction between different gymnastic skills. Furthermore, we sought to explore relationships between rotational preference, lateral preference, and vestibulo-spinal asymmetry. In the experiment n = 30 non-experts, n = 30 near-experts and n = 30 experts completed a rotational preference questionnaire, a lateral preference inventory, and the Unterberger-Fukuda Stepping Test. The results revealed, that near-experts and experts more often rotate rightward in the straight jump with a full turn when rotating leftward in the round-off and vice versa. The same relationship was found for experts when relating the rotation preference in the handstand with a full turn to the rotation preference in the straight jump with a full turn. Lateral preference was positively related to rotational preference in non-expert gymnasts, and vestibulo-spinal asymmetry was positively related to rotational preference in experts. We suggest, that gymnasts should explore their individual rotational preference by systematically practicing different skills with a different rotation direction, bearing in mind that a clearly developed structure in rotational preference between different skills may be appropriate to develop more complex skills in gymnastics.
Validity and Reproducibility of the Sargent Jump Test in the Assessment of Explosive Strength in Soccer Players
Authors: de Salles Paulo , Vasconcellos Fabrício , de Salles Gil , Fonseca Renato , Dantas Estélio
Published: July 2012

Validity and Reproducibility of the Sargent Jump Test in the Assessment of Explosive Strength in Soccer Players

The purpose of this study was to check the validity and the intra- and inter-evaluators reproducibility of the Sargent Jump Test, as an instrument of explosive strength measurement of soccer players of the sub-15 class. Forty-five soccer players were randomly selected from different clubs competing in the local soccer championship. All subjects performed one test on the same jump platform model Jumptest® (Hidrofit Ltda, Brazil) and two independent Sargent Jump Tests assessed by the same evaluator. Two days later, another Sargent Jump Test was performed simultaneously assessed by 2 evaluators. In all tests, three jumps were performed and the highest one was registered. In order to check the validity, the first Sargent Jump Test results were compared to those from the jump platform, considered the gold standard. To evaluate intra- and inter-evaluator reproducibility, results from the first, second and third Sargent Jump Tests were analyzed. The validity and reproducibility were evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and by the Bland and Altman test (statistical pack SPSS 11.0), with a significance level set at p<0.05. The values found for validity (r=0.99, p=0.001), for intra-evaluator reproducibility (r=0.99, p=0.001) and for inter-evaluator reproducibility (r=1.0, p=0.001), permitted us to conclude that the Sargent Jump Test is a valid and reproducible instrument for measuring the explosive strength in homogeneous groups, such as those used in the present study.
The Effects of Rhythm Training on Tennis Performance
Authors: Söğüt Mustafa , Kirazci Sadettin , Korkusuz Feza
Published: July 2012

The Effects of Rhythm Training on Tennis Performance

Rhythm training is an integral part of sports. The purposes of the study were to analyze the effects of rhythm training on tennis performance and rhytmic competence of tennis players, to compare the improvement levels of tennis specific and general rhythm training and to examine the effects of shorter and longer tempos on rhythmic competence. Thirty university students whose mean score of International Tennis Number (ITN) was 7.3 (±0.9) were divided randomly into three sub-groups: Tennis Group, General Rhythm Training Group and Tennis-Specific Rhythm Training Group. The experimental procedure lasted 8 weeks. During this period, all groups had the same tennis training twice a week. The Tennis Group had regular tennis training sessions. In addition to regular tennis training sessions, the General Rhythm Training Group followed the general rhythm training sessions and the Tennis-Specific Rhythm Training Group had tennis-specific rhythm training. The measurement instruments were ITN, Rhythmic Competence Analysis Test and Untimed Consecutive Rally Test. The results indicated that participation in tennis-specific or general rhythm training resulted in progress in tennis playing levels, forehand consistency performance and rhythmic competence of the participants. On the other hand, attendance to the regular 8-week tennis training was enough to solely increase the tennis playing level but not sufficient to develop forehand consistency performance and rhythmic competence. Although the participants in the TRTG had better improvement scores than the ones in the GRTG, no significant difference was found between the rhythm training groups. The results also revealed that participants exhibited higher rhythmic competence scores on fast tempo compared to slow tempo.
Development of Sport Courage Scale
Authors: Konter Erkut , Ng Johan
Published: July 2012

Development of Sport Courage Scale

While theory and practice of sport have much to say about fear, stress and anxiety, they have little to say about courage. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a Sport Courage Scale. Data were collected from two groups of male and female athletes aged from 13 to 22 in different individual and team sports. The first set of data (N = 380) was analyzed by exploratory factor analysis, and the second set of data (N = 388) was analyzed by confirmatory factor analysis. Analyses revealed a 5-factor structure of Sport Courage Scale that supported factorial validity and reliability of scale scores. These factors were labelled: "Determination", "Mastery", "Assertiveness", "Venturesome", and "Self-Sacrifice Behaviour". Finally, evidence of test-retest reliability of scale scores was supported based on responses from 75 athletes. However, more research is needed to further improve the Sport Courage Scale.
Psychophysiological Responses to Competition and the Big Five Personality Traits
Authors: Binboga Erdal , Guven Senol , Çatıkkaş Fatih , Bayazıt Onur , Tok Serdar
Published: July 2012

Psychophysiological Responses to Competition and the Big Five Personality Traits

This study examines the relationship between psychophysiological arousal, cognitive anxiety, and personality traits in young taekwondo athletes. A total of 20 male and 10 female taekwondo athletes (mean age = 18.6 years; ± 1.8) volunteered for the study. The Five Factor Personality Inventory and the state scale of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used to measure personality and cognitive state anxiety. Electrodermal activity (EDA) was measured twice, one day and approximately one hour prior to the competition, to determine psychophysiological arousal. Descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlations, and stepwise regression were used to analyze the data. Several "Big Five" facets were related to the EDA delta scores that were measured both one day and one hour before the competition. Two stepwise regressions were conducted to examine whether personality traits could significantly predict both EDA delta scores. The final model, containing only neuroticism from the Big Five factors, can significantly explain the variations in the EDA delta scores measured one day before the competition. Agreeableness can significantly explain variations in the EDA delta scores measured one hour before the competition. No relationship was found between cognitive anxiety and the EDA delta scores measured one hour before the competition. In conclusion, personality traits, especially agreeableness and neuroticism, might be useful in understanding arousal responses to competition.
Analysis of Knowledge-based Economy Development in Poland in the Light of Strategic Documents
Authors: Dworak Edyta
Published: July 2012

After the European Union summit in spring 2005, the member countries were obliged to implement the Lisbon Strategy on the national level and to prepare national strategies to fulfil its goals. Due to this, the goals and tasks of building knowledge-based economy were entered into the strategic documents and operational programs included in the National Strategic Reference Framework 2007-2013 (NSRF), prepared by successive governments after 2005. However, it needs to be mentioned that also scientific institutions (e.g. the Polish Academy of Sciences, PAN) introduced various strategic documents in which issues of knowledge-based economy and its role in the social and economic development of Poland were included. However, a study of a holistic knowledgebased economy was not made. The aim of article is to present and assess the most important documents referring to the strategy of knowledge–based economy development in Poland.
Beginning of the End of Cost Competitiveness in CEE Countries – Analysis of Dependence between Labor Costs and Internationalization of the Region
Authors: Wiliński Witold
Published: July 2012

The main purpose of this study is to verify whether previous low level of labor costs being one of competitive edges of CEE countries is a factor that may determine competitiveness of this region in the long run. In the study a regression analysis has been carried out on the sample of all EU countries in order to verify the dependence between internationalization degree measured by OFDI stock per capita on labor costs in manufacturing sector and on GNP per capita. The results of the regression analysis clearly show the occurrence of such dependence. This means that gradual increase in labor costs in CEE countries will result in not only reduced inflow of investments from developed countries to this region but also transfer of production to more cost competitive countries. In order to exemplify the above econometric model I carried out empirical analysis of the companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, identifying the companies for which efficiency-seeking is the main internationalization motive. The analysis of internationalization of 26 companies during the years 1990-2010 clearly shows that a significant part of investments is located outside the territory of Poland, in the countries with lower labor costs. This fact confirms that CEE countries will gradually become less and less attractive in terms of costs not only for MNEs from developed countries but also for the companies originating from transition economies.
State of Play and Sectoral Differentiation of Clusters in Visegrad Group Countries and in Germany in the Context of Increasing Competitiveness
Authors: Przygodzki Zbigniew
Published: July 2012

In accordance with the definition by the European Commission regional competitiveness means the ability of companies, sectors and transnational groupings in the region exposed to international competition to generate sustainable and relatively high income and employment levels. Following this line of thinking, strengthening the potential of local economic operators and their environment should become the priority of economic policies of the governments. One among recognised mechanisms that back up enterprise potential is the organisation and fostering of the competitiveness of clusters. They are a specific case of economic networks based on cooperation and competitiveness which usually need targeted investment in order to be efficient in their operations. Cluster policy implemented by Western European countries is most often systemic, integrated between the central and the regional levels with the material scope of investment focusing on assisting innovation in clusters. From this perspective it is interesting to see the shape the policy takes in Central European countries after their economic transformation. We selected Visegrad Group countries as the subject of our analysis knowing that clusters have been known there since at least the end of 1990s. Although more than 10 years have passed the conclusions indicate that the policy is at its initial development stage and, differently from Western economies (Germany in our case), it hardly effects the innovation of national economies and regional systems of innovation.
Estimation of Two Sinusoids in a Very Short Signal
Authors: Rytel-Andrianik Rafał
Published: July 2012

Estimation of Two Sinusoids in a Very Short Signal

In the paper, the estimation of the parameters (frequency, amplitude, phase) of two complex-valued sinusoids embedded in a white gaussian circular additive noise is considered. In this context, it is answered what is the minimal necessary number of signal samples needed to reliably estimate all the parameters of both sinusoids. The Cramer-Rao bounds and maximum likelihood estimator are used in the analysis. The answer to the posed question is not straightforward. It is shown that three signal samples are enough only if the difference of phases between both sinusoids meets certain condition, otherwise estimation results are ambiguous. The use of four signal samples has the advantage that reliable estimates can be obtained irrespectively of this phase difference.
Objective Video Quality Method Based on Mutual Information and Human Visual System
Authors: Mardiak Michal , Polec Jaroslav
Published: July 2012

Objective Video Quality Method Based on Mutual Information and Human Visual System

In this paper we present the objective video quality metric based on mutual information and Human Visual System. The calculation of proposed metric consists of two stages. In the first stage of quality evaluation whole original and test sequence are pre-processed by the Human Visual System. In the second stage we calculate mutual information which has been utilized as the quality evaluation criteria. The mutual information was calculated between the frame from original sequence and the corresponding frame from test sequence. For this testing purpose we choose Foreman video at CIF resolution. To prove reliability of our metric were compared it with some commonly used objective methods for measuring the video quality. The results show that presented objective video quality metric based on mutual information and Human Visual System provides relevant results in comparison with results of other objective methods so it is suitable candidate for measuring the video quality.
Temperature shock tolerance and heat shock proteins in Arctic freshwater ostracod Candona rectangulata - preliminary results
Authors: Wojtasik Barbara , Kuczyńska-Wiśnik Dorota
Published: July 2012

Temperature shock tolerance and heat shock proteins in Arctic freshwater ostracod Candona rectangulata - preliminary results

Candona rectangulata is an ostracod species common in cold (<15°C) shallow freshwater Arctic water bodies. This species is useful in palaeolimnological studies because only few known autecological data can be applied in reconstructions of palaeoclimate. Particular attention was paid to the temperature, which is the basic factor determining the geographic range of a species. In this study a wide tolerance of C. rectangulata to the temperature was demonstrated for the first time. Its high tolerance to the temperature changes seems to be based on induction of set of proteins belonging to the family of heat shock proteins. Using PAGE-SDS electrophoresis variation in the protein profile of non-model organism undergoing stress in the field (South Spitsbergen, near Stanisław Siedlecki Polish Polar Station) and in laboratory cultures was presented. These results could explain the eurythermic range of C. rectangulata and its good adaptation to the environmental conditions which normally do not exist in Arctic freshwater ponds.
Nesting of the Lesser Spotted Eagle (Aquila pomarina) at its hatching site
Authors: Danko Štefan , Maderič Boris
Published: July 2012

Nesting of the Lesser Spotted Eagle (Aquila pomarina) at its hatching site

Colour rings with alphanumeric codes have been used on the Lesser Spotted Eagles since 2000. On April 24, 2007 an eagle with a yellow ring I9 was photographed in the "Ondavská vrchovina" highlands near the village of Lieskovec in Humenné district. It was found out that the eagle was ringed on the same site on July 4, 2002 as a chick on the nest. After further observations the adult male was spotted feeding its chick in the nest, which was located only 130 m from the one it hatched at. If it could be proved that the female at the nesting site, which has been regularly surveyed since 1985 has not changed, nesting of a son and a mother could not to be ruled out in this case.
Summary on raptors and owls ringing in Slovakia in the period 2005-2006
Authors: Slobodník Vladimír
Published: July 2012

Summary on raptors and owls ringing in Slovakia in the period 2005-2006

This report provides a summary on raptors and owls ringing in Slovakia in 2005-2006. In 2005, from a total of 21 132 ringed birds, raptors and owls represented 964 ind. (4.5 %). There were 26 species of raptors and owls, which equates 15.5 % of all species recorded. In 2006, there were 29 075 ringed in Slovakia, from this number raptors and owls were represented by 703 ind. (2.4 %) and 23 species (14 %). This paper also contains a summary on the ringing recoveries including data on raptors and owls.
Bibliography on birds of prey and owls in Slovakia. Part 1. Order Accipitriformes, genera Aquila, Hieraaetus & Haliaeetus
Authors: Uhrin Marcel , Danko Štefan , Latková Hana
Published: July 2012

Bibliography on birds of prey and owls in Slovakia. Part 1. Order Accipitriformes, genera Aquila, Hieraaetus & Haliaeetus

The aim of the bibliography is to provide a list of publications on raptors and owls of Slovakia. More parts will follow this first one, which is focused on genera Aquila, Hieraaetus and Haliaeetus. In total 332 citations are listed - 172 (51.8 %) scientific and research articles, 106 (31.9 %) popular articles, 3 (0.9 %) qualification papers, 22 (6.6 %) conference abstracts and 29 (8.7 %) reports or other papers. The register of species, objective index and the author register enable better overview.
Reduction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and nitrogen monooxide in combustion engine exhaust gases by clinoptilolite
Authors: Mačala Jozef , Pandová Iveta , Gondová Taťána , Dubayová Katarína
Published: July 2012

Reduction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and nitrogen monooxide in combustion engine exhaust gases by clinoptilolite

The subject of this work was the investigation of zeolite as a sorbent of toxic gases. In Nizny Hrabovec in the Slovak republic, two layers of zeolite with the active component clinoptilolite can be found. The study presented here investigated the ability of this natural zeolite to reduce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and NO emissions from engine exhaust. Exhaust gases from combustion engines include toxic components such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a component of hydrocarbons causing harmful influence on life forms. The experiments focused on the potential reduction of these toxic gases based on the sorption and catalytic properties of natural zeolite. Also observed was the influence of chemical adjustment including incorporation of certain metal elements. Chemical analysis by mutually independent technologies served to observe the sorption of PAH with carcinogenic properties on the natural zeolite tested. The experiments showed that chemical modification improved the sorption and catalytic properties of natural zeolite. The PAH were analysed in an extract of the contaminated, thermally-activated natural zeolite and modified zeolite after washing with ammonium chloride, cobalt chloride and copper sulphate. The study also presents results of NO measurements obtained by testing the filter-sorptive automobile system.
Impact of model resolution on simulated wind, drifting snow and surface mass balance in Terre Adélie, East Antarctica
Authors: Lenaerts Jan T.M. , Van Den Broeke Michiel R. , Scarchilli Claudio , Agosta Cécile
Published: July 2012

This paper presents the impact of model resolution on the simulated wind speed, drifting snow climate and surface mass balance (SMB) of Terre Adélie and its surroundings, East Antarctica. We compare regional climate model simulations at 27 and 5.5 km resolution for the year 2009. The wind speed maxima in Terre Adélie and the narrow glacial valleys of Victoria Land are better represented at 5.5 km resolution, because the topography is better resolved. Drifting snow sublimation is >100 mm a-1 in regions with high wind speeds. Our results indicate a strong feedback between topography, wind gradients and drifting snow erosion. As a result, SMB shows much more local spatial variability at 5.5 km resolution that is controlled by drifting snow erosion, whereas the large-scale SMB gradient is largely determined by precipitation. Drifting snow processes lead to ablation in the narrow glacial valleys of Victoria Land. The integrated SMB equals 86 Gt. Although wind climate, drifting snow processes and SMB variability are better represented at 5.5 km, the area-integrated SMB is not significantly different between the simulations at 27 and 5.5 km. A horizontal resolution of 27 km is sufficient to realistically simulate ice-sheet wide SMB.
Welcome to Arts, a New Open Access, Multidisciplinary and Comprehensive Online Journal
Authors: Facos Michelle
Published: July 2012

Arts is the latest open access journal from MDPI and the first scholarly journal to house all the arts—decorative, fine, performing—under one roof. It is a journal without temporal or geographical boundaries that encourages innovative contributions to research that are succinct or lengthy, theoretical or historical, interdisciplinary or narrowly-focused. Individual articles on a broad range of topics will provide a stimulating forum for cross-disciplinary fertilization; special issues edited by leading scholars will provide deeper and more comprehensive insight into particular facets of the arts that are pertinent and timely. [...]
Hydrogen Desorption from Mg Hydride: An Ab Initio Study
Authors: Giusepponi Simone , Celino Massimo
Published: July 2012

Hydrogen desorption from hydride matrix is still an open field of research. By means of accurate first-principle molecular dynamics (MD) simulations an Mg–MgH2 interface is selected, studied and characterized. Electronic structure calculations are used to determine the equilibrium properties and the behavior of the surfaces in terms of structural deformations and total energy considerations. Furthermore, extensive ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations are performed at several temperatures to characterize the desorption process at the interface. The numerical model successfully reproduces the experimental desorption temperature for the hydride.
Cation Dependence of Crystal Structure and Band Parameters in a Series of Molecular Conductors, β'-(Cation)[Pd(dmit)2]2 (dmit = 1,3-dithiole-2-thione-4,5-dithiolate)
Authors: Kato Reizo , Hengbo Cui
Published: July 2012

An isostructural series of anion radical salts, β'-(EtxMe4−xZ)[Pd(dmit)2]2 (x = 0–2, Z = P, As, Sb), with a quasi-triangular lattice comprising the dimer unit [Pd(dmit)2]2− belong to a strongly correlated electron system with geometrical frustration. Intra and interdimer transfer integrals between the frontier molecular orbitals, which characterize the strength of electron correlation and degree of frustration, can be tuned by selection of the counter cation. We have systematically analyzed the crystal structure with X-ray diffraction method and intermolecular transfer integrals using extended Hückel molecular orbital calculations based on structural data. The variation in the cation affects the unit cell in a manner equivalent to an anisotropic pressure. Increasing the covalent radius of the central atom Z and the number of ethyl groups (x) in the cation leads to slight arching of the Pd(dmit)2 molecule. This arch-shaped distortion of the Pd(dmit)2 molecule modifies the interdimer transfer integrals in formation of the regular triangular dimer lattice. On the other hand, the intradimer transfer integral, which is correlated with the effective on-site Coulomb interaction of the dimer, is weakly dependent on the type of cation.
Clustering Rfam 10.1: Clans, Families, and Classes
Authors: Lessa Felipe A. , Raiol Tainá , Brigido Marcelo M. , Martins Neto Daniele S. B. , Walter Maria Emília M. T. , Stadler Peter F.
Published: July 2012

The Rfam database contains information about non-coding RNAs emphasizing their secondary structures and organizing them into families of homologous RNA genes or functional RNA elements. Recently, a higher order organization of Rfam in terms of the so-called clans was proposed along with its “decimal release”. In this proposition, some of the families have been assigned to clans based on experimental and computational data in order to find related families. In the present work we investigate an alternative classification for the RNA families based on tree edit distance. The resulting clustering recovers some of the Rfam clans. The majority of clans, however, are not recovered by the structural clustering. Instead, they get dispersed into larger clusters, which correspond roughly to well-described RNA classes such as snoRNAs, miRNAs, and CRISPRs. In conclusion, a structure-based clustering can contribute to the elucidation of the relationships among the Rfam families beyond the realm of clans and classes.
Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum Aminopeptidases in Health and Disease: from Infection to Cancer
Authors: Cifaldi Loredana , Romania Paolo , Lorenzi Silvia , Locatelli Franco , Fruci Doriana
Published: July 2012

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) aminopeptidases ERAP1 and ERAP2 (ERAPs) are essential for the maturation of a wide spectrum of proteins involved in various biological processes. In the ER, these enzymes work in concert to trim peptides for presentation on MHC class I molecules. Loss of ERAPs function substantially alters the repertoire of peptides presented by MHC class I molecules, critically affecting recognition of both NK and CD8+ T cells. In addition, these enzymes are involved in the modulation of inflammatory responses by promoting the shedding of several cytokine receptors, and in the regulation of both blood pressure and angiogenesis. Recent genome-wide association studies have identified common variants of ERAP1 and ERAP2 linked to several human diseases, ranging from viral infections to autoimmunity and cancer. More recently, inhibition of ER peptide trimming has been shown to play a key role in stimulating innate and adaptive anti-tumor immune responses, suggesting that inhibition of ERAPs might be exploited for the establishment of innovative therapeutic approaches against cancer. This review summarizes data currently available for ERAP enzymes in ER peptide trimming and in other immunological and non-immunological functions, paying attention to the emerging role played by these enzymes in human diseases.
6-Shogaol-Rich Extract from Ginger Up-Regulates the Antioxidant Defense Systems in Cells and Mice
Authors: Bak Min-Ji , Ok Seon , Jun Mira , Jeong Woo-Sik
Published: July 2012

The rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is known to have several bioactive compounds including gingerols and shogaols which possess beneficial health properties such as anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive effects. Based on recent observations that 6-shogaol may have more potent bioactivity than 6-gingerol, we obtained a 6-shogaol-rich extract from ginger and examined its effects on the nuclear factor E2-related factor2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway in vitro and in vivo. 6-Shogaol-rich extract was produced by extracting ginger powder with 95% ethanol at 80 °C after drying at 80 °C (GEE8080). GEE8080 contained over 6-fold more 6-shogaol compared to the room temperature extract (GEE80RT). In HepG2 cells, GEE8080 displayed much stronger inductions of ARE-reporter gene activity and Nrf2 expression than GEE80RT. GEE8080 stimulated phosphorylations of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as ERK, JNK, and p38. Moreover, the GEE8080-induced expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 were attenuated by treatments of SB202190 (a p38 specific inhibitor) and LY294002 (an Akt specific inhibitor). In a mouse model, the GEE8080 decreased the diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-mediated elevations of serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase as well as the DEN-induced hepatic lipid peroxidation. Inductions of Nrf2 and HO-1 by GEE8080 were also confirmed in the mice. In addition, the administration of GEE8080 to the mice also restored the DEN-reduced activity and protein expression of hepatic antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. In conclusion, GEE8080, a 6-shogaol-rich ginger extract, may enhance antioxidant defense mechanism through the induction of Nrf2 and HO-1 regulated by p38 MAPK and PI3k/Akt pathway in vitro and in vivo.
Purification, Characterization and Antioxidant Activities in Vitro and in Vivo of the Polysaccharides from Boletus edulis Bull
Authors: Luo Aoxue , Luo Aoshuang , Huang Jiandong , Fan Yijun
Published: July 2012

A water-soluble polysaccharide (BEBP) was extracted from Boletus edulis Bull using hot water extraction followed by ethanol precipitation. The polysaccharide BEBP was further purified by chromatography on a DEAE-cellulose column, giving three major polysaccharide fractions termed BEBP-1, BEBP-2 and BEBP-3. In the next experiment, the average molecular weight (Mw), IR and monosaccharide compositional analysis of the three polysaccharide fractions were determined. The evaluation of antioxidant activities both in vitro and in vivo suggested that BEBP-3 had good potential antioxidant activity, and should be explored as a novel potential antioxidant.
Dynamics of Ras Complexes Observed in Living Cells
Authors: Li Xiangyong , Cheng Zhiyong , Jin Honglin
Published: July 2012

K-Ras works as a switch in many important intracellular signaling pathways and plays important roles in cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and carcinogenesis. For signal transduction from K-Ras to Raf1, the best-characterized effector of K-Ras, the general view is that Ras recruits Raf1 from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane. To elucidate this process, we constructed a series of fusion proteins (including Raf1 and K-Ras fused with either fluorescent proteins or fluorescent protein fragments) to compare subcellular localizations of these proteins. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and a co-transfection system were used. In the BiFC system, the K-Ras/Raf1 complexes were mainly located in the cell membrane, while the Raf1 control was uniformly distributed in the cytoplasm. However, the complexes of Raf1 and K-RasC185S, a K-Ras mutant which loses membrane-localization, were also able to accumulate in the cell membrane. In contrast, an apparent cytosolic distribution pattern was observed in cells co-transfected with mcerulean-Raf1 and EGFP-K-RasC185S, suggesting that the membrane localization of K-Ras/Raf1 complexes is not entirely dependent on K-Ras, and that other factors, such as the irreversible conformation formed between K-Ras and Raf1 may play a role. This study sheds light on the interaction between K-Ras and Raf1 and provides a practical method to elucidate the mechanism underlying K-Ras and Raf1 binding to the cell membrane.
Frustration: A Comparison of Chain Hotel and Independent Hotel Employees
Authors: Ehtiyar Rüya , Yildiz Melek
Published: July 2012

Conceptually, frustration is an interference with the occurrence of an instigated goal-response at its proper time in the behavior sequence. Unfulfilled needs or its delaying is the first step of this process. A person whose needs are unfulfilled or delayed feels disappointed and frustrated.
In the working life, this emotion is very important for job satisfaction. When it is thought that a psychological situation of employees brings customer satisfaction in the service industry, this importance is considerable for accommodation companies. the purpose of this study is to find out
forms of frustration in organizations; its reasons; employees' feelings and their reactions to frustration; and the relationship between frustration and job satisfaction by explaining the frustration concept within the context of chain and independent hotel employees.