bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How I treat resistant cytomegalovirus infection in hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients
Authors: El Chaer Firas , Shah Dimpy P. , Chemaly Roy F.
Published: October 2016

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a significant complication in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients. Four antiviral drugs are used for preventing or treating CMV: ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir. With prolonged and repeated use of these drugs, CMV can become resistant to standard therapy, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality, especially in HCT recipients. Antiviral drug resistance should be suspected when CMV viremia (DNAemia or antigenemia) fails to improve or continue to increase after 2 weeks of appropriately dosed and delivered antiviral therapy. CMV resistance is diagnosed by detecting specific genetic mutations. UL97 mutations confer resistance to ganciclovir and valganciclovir, and a UL54 mutation confers multidrug resistance. Risk factors for resistance include prolonged or previous anti-CMV drug exposure or inadequate dosing, absorption, or bioavailability. Host risk factors include type of HCT and degree of immunosuppression. Depending on the genotyping results, multiple strategies can be adopted to treat resistant CMV infections, albeit no randomized clinical trials exist so far, after reducing immunosuppression (if possible): ganciclovir dose escalation, ganciclovir and foscarnet combination, and adjunct therapy such as CMV-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte infusions. Novel therapies such as maribavir, brincidofovir, and letermovir should be further studied for treatment of resistant CMV.
Pneumococcal urinary antigen test use in diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia in seven Utah hospitals
Authors: West Devin M. , McCauley Lindsay M. , Sorensen Jeffrey S. , Jephson Al R. , Dean Nathan C.
Published: October 2016

The pneumocococcal urine antigen test increases specific microbiological diagnosis over conventional culture methods in pneumonia patients. Data are limited regarding its yield and effect on antibiotic prescribing among patients with community-onset pneumonia in clinical practice.

We performed a secondary analysis of 2837 emergency department patients admitted to seven Utah hospitals over 2 years with international diagnostic codes version 9 codes and radiographic evidence of pneumonia.

Mean age was 64.2 years, 47.2% were male and all-cause 30-day mortality was 9.6%. Urinary antigen testing was performed in 1110 (39%) patients yielding 134 (12%) positives. Intensive care unit patients were more likely to undergo testing, and have a positive result (15%versus8.8% for ward patients; p<0.01). Patients with risk factors for healthcare-associated pneumonia had fewer urinary antigen tests performed, but 8.4% were positive. Physicians changed to targeted antibiotic therapy in 20 (15%) patients, de-escalated antibiotic therapy in 76 patients (57%). In 38 (28%) patients, antibiotics were not changed. Only one patient changed to targeted therapy suffered clinical relapse. Length of stay and mortality were lower in patients receiving targeted therapy.

Pneumococcal urinary antigen testing is an inexpensive, noninvasive test that favourably influenced antibiotic prescribing in a “real world”, multi-hospital observational study.
Ex-vivo expansion of nonhuman primate CD34+ cells by stem cell factor Sall4B
Authors: Shen Bin , Zhang Yu , Dai Wei , Ma Yupo , Jiang Yongping
Published: October 2016

Background

Hematopoietic CD34+ stem cells are widely used in the clinical therapy of complicated blood diseases. Stem cell factor Sall4B is a zinc finger transcription factor that plays a vital role in hematopoietic stem cell expansion. The purpose of our current study is to further evaluate how Sall4B might affect the expansion of CD34+ cells derived from nonhuman primates.

Methods

Sall4B was overexpressed in nonhuman primate bone marrow-derived CD34+ cells via a lentiviral transduction system. The granulocyte–erythrocyte–macrophage–megakaryocyte colony-forming unit (CFU) assay evaluated the differentiation potential of primate CD34+ cells that were expanded with Sall4B. Furthermore, an in-vivo murine system was employed to evaluate the hematopoietic potential of primate Sall4B-expanded CD34+ cells.

Results

Overexpression of Sall4B promoted ex-vivo nonhuman primate CD34+ cell expansion by 9.21 ± 1.94-fold on day 9, whereas lentiviral transduction without Sall4B expanded cells by only 2.95 ± 0.77-fold. Sall4B maintained a significant percentage of CD34+ cells as well. The CFU assay showed that the Sall4B-expanded CD34+ cells still possessed multilineage differentiation potential. A study using nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice in vivo revealed that Sall4B led to an increase in the number of repopulating cells and the 9-day-old Sall4B-transduced CD34+ cells still possess self-renewal and multilineage differentiation capacity in vivo, which are similar stemness characteristics to those in freshly isolated primate bone marrow-derived CD34+ cells.

Conclusions

We investigated the expansion of nonhuman primate bone marrow-derived CD34+ cells using the Sall4B lentiviral overexpression approach; our findings provide a new perspective on mechanisms of rapid stem cell proliferation. The utilization of Sall4B to expand CD34+ cells on a large scale through use of suitable model systems would prove helpful towards preclinical trials of autologous transplantation.
Discrepancy between short-term and long-term effects of bone marrow-derived cell therapy in acute myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lee Seon Heui , Hong Jin Hyuk , Cho Kyoung Hee , Noh Jin-Won , Cho Hyun-Jai
Published: October 2016

Background

Bone marrow-derived cell therapy has been used to treat acute myocardial infarction. However, the therapeutic efficacy of this approach remains controversial. Here, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate short-term and long-term effectiveness of bone marrow-derived therapy.

Methods

We searched eight databases (Ovid-Medline, Ovid-EMBASE, Cochrane Library, KoreaMed, KMBASE, KISS, RISS, and KisTi) up to December 2014. Demographic characteristics, clinical outcomes, and adverse events were analyzed. We identified 5534 potentially relevant studies; 405 were subjected to a full-text review. Forty-three studies with 2635 patients were included in this review.

Results

No safety issues related to cell injection were reported during follow-up. At 6 months, cell-injected patients showed modest improvements in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) compared with the control group. However, there were no differences between groups at other time points. In the cardiac MRI analysis, there were no significant differences in infarct size reduction between groups. Interestingly, mortality tended to be reduced at the 3-year follow-up, and at the 5-year follow-up, cell injection significantly decreased all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis demonstrated discrepancies between short-term LV functional improvement and long-term all-cause mortality. Future clinical trials should include long-term follow-up outcomes to validate the therapeutic efficacy of cell therapy.
Adopting incentive mechanisms for large-scale participation in mobile crowdsensing: from literature review to a conceptual framework
Authors: Ogie R. I.
Published: October 2016

Mobile crowdsensing is a burgeoning concept that allows smart cities to leverage the sensing power and ubiquitous nature of mobile devices in order to capture and map phenomena of common interest. At the core of any successful mobile crowdsensing application is active user participation, without which the system is of no value in sensing the phenomenon of interest. A major challenge militating against widespread use and adoption of mobile crowdsensing applications is the issue of how to identify the most appropriate incentive mechanism for adequately and efficiently motivating participants. This paper reviews literature on incentive mechanisms for mobile crowdsensing and proposes the concept of SPECTRUM as a guide for inferring the most appropriate type of incentive suited to any given crowdsensing task. Furthermore, the paper highlights research challenges and areas where additional studies related to the different factors outlined in the concept of SPECTRUM are needed to improve citizen participation in mobile crowdsensing. It is envisaged that the broad range of factors covered in SPECTRUM will enable smart cities to efficiently engage citizens in large-scale crowdsensing initiatives. More importantly, the paper is expected to trigger empirical investigations into how various factors as outlined in SPECTRUM can influence the type of incentive mechanism that is considered most appropriate for any given mobile crowdsensing initiative.
Circadian rhythms have significant effects on leaf-to-canopy scale gas exchange under field conditions
Authors: Resco de Dios Víctor , Gessler Arthur , Ferrio Juan Pedro , Alday Josu G , Bahn Michael , del Castillo Jorge , Devidal Sébastien , García-Muñoz Sonia , Kayler Zachary , Landais Damien , Martín-Gómez Paula , Milcu Alexandru , Piel Clément , Pirhofer-Walzl Karin , Ravel Olivier , Salekin Serajis , Tissue David T , Tjoelker Mark G , Voltas Jordi , Roy Jacques
Published: October 2016

Background

Molecular clocks drive oscillations in leaf photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and other cell and leaf-level processes over ~24 h under controlled laboratory conditions. The influence of such circadian regulation over whole-canopy fluxes remains uncertain; diurnal CO2 and H2O vapor flux dynamics in the field are currently interpreted as resulting almost exclusively from direct physiological responses to variations in light, temperature and other environmental factors. We tested whether circadian regulation would affect plant and canopy gas exchange at the Montpellier European Ecotron. Canopy and leaf-level fluxes were constantly monitored under field-like environmental conditions, and under constant environmental conditions (no variation in temperature, radiation, or other environmental cues).

Results

We show direct experimental evidence at canopy scales of the circadian regulation of daytime gas exchange: 20–79 % of the daily variation range in CO2 and H2O fluxes occurred under circadian entrainment in canopies of an annual herb (bean) and of a perennial shrub (cotton). We also observed that considering circadian regulation improved performance by 8–17 % in commonly used stomatal conductance models.

Conclusions

Our results show that circadian controls affect diurnal CO2 and H2O flux patterns in entire canopies in field-like conditions, and its consideration significantly improves model performance. Circadian controls act as a ‘memory' of the past conditions experienced by the plant, which synchronizes metabolism across entire plant canopies.
Eliminating blurry bands in gels with a simple cost-effective repair to the gel cassette
Authors: Bingaman Jamie L. , Frankel Erica A. , Hull Chelsea M. , Leamy Kathleen A. , Messina Kyle J. , Mitchell David , Park Hongmarn , Ritchey Laura E. , Babitzke Paul , Bevilacqua Philip C.
Published: October 2016

Gel electrophoresis and subsequent imaging using phosphorimagers is one of the most important and widely used techniques in RNA and DNA analysis. Radiolabeling nucleic acids with 32P and detecting bands using a phoshorimager are useful both in a qualitative sense for nucleic acid detection and in a quantitative sense for structural, kinetic, or binding-based assays. Because of this, good resolution of gel bands based on molecular weight and size of RNA or DNA is essential for analysis. The appearance of blurry gel bands of 32P-labeled RNA and DNA thus represents a serious problem in the laboratory. A quick search on the Internet uncovers numerous reports begrudging the appearance of blurry bands, as well as attempts to fix them without success. Indeed, our laboratories were beset by the intermittent problem of blurry gels for over one year before we found a solution. Herein we describe a simple and cost-effective solution to a problem that we show originates from the phosphorimager cassettes rather than the integrity of the gel itself. We hope that the information provided here will lead to immediate help for other laboratories experiencing similar issues with labeled nucleic acid gel-based assays. The improvement in the clarity of the gels is nothing short of astonishing in many instances and will lead to higher resolution images for analysis and publications.
Recent advances in understanding antitumor immunity
Authors: Munhoz Rodrigo Ramella , Postow Michael Andrew
Published: October 2016

The term “antitumor immunity” refers to innate and adaptive immune responses which lead to tumor control. Turning the immune system into a destructive force against tumors has been achieved in a broad range of human cancers with the use of non-specific immunotherapies, vaccines, adoptive-cell therapy, and, more recently with significant success, through blockade of immune checkpoints. Nevertheless, the efficacy of these approaches is not universal, and tools to identify long-term responders and primarily refractory patients are warranted. In this article, we review recent advances in understanding the complex mechanisms of antitumor immunity and how these developments can be used to address open questions in a setting of growing clinical indications for the use of immunotherapy.
“Science Fiesta!” Combining student-led community outreach with local culture
Authors: Block Travis J. , Marinkovic Milos , Gray Jodie , Dowell Paul E. , Anthony Charlotte , Daly Ryan , Evans LaShauna , Fordtran Chase , Hassan Elizabeth , Holmgren Tara , Horning Aaron , Martinez-Anz Sabrina , Riggs Rosemary , Vanasse Thomas , Sifuentes Mikaela , Berman Jonathan M. , Evans Teresa M.
Published: October 2016

Science outreach improves science literacy among the public and communication skills of scientists. However, despite the array of well-documented benefits, robust outreach efforts are often absent from communities which stand to benefit the most from these initiatives. Here, we introduce “Science Fiesta,” a graduate student-led outreach initiative which utilizes cultural traditions of South Texas as a vehicle to establish self-sustaining interactions between scientists and their local community. Event assessment surveys indicated that attendees found the event both fun and educational.  At the same time, graduate students who organized the event and participated in outreach reported that they strengthened a variety of professional skills important for their future careers. More importantly, the event had a substantial positive impact on enthusiasm for science outreach.  Both public attendees and graduate students reported that they were likely to participate in future science outreach events, even though a majority of both groups had not been previously involved in outreach efforts. Science Fiesta is a model for a highly effective graduate student-led outreach initiative that is capable of 1) improving public scientific literacy, 2) reinforcing graduate education and career development and 3) creating a culture of science engagement within local communities.
Optimization of Physicochemical Factors for the Sphericity of Capsule Type-Fish Roe Analogs using Equipment with Double Nozzles
Authors: Jo Eun-Hee , Cho Suengmok , Kim Seon-Bong
Published: October 2016

This study optimized physicochemical factors for the sphericity of capsule type-fish roe analogs using equipment with double nozzles. The manufacturing process of fish roe analogs was optimized by response surface methodology with central composite design. For the optimum conditions of sphericity, sodium alginate concentration, calcium chloride concentration, agitation speed of calcium chloride solution in a reactor, and dropping height were investigated as independent variables. Soybean oil was put into the equipment through an internal nozzle, along with sodium alginate solution through an external nozzle into calcium chloride solution. The optimum conditions for the production of fish roe analogs were 1.66% (w/v) sodium alginate, 1.86% (w/v) calcium chloride, agitation speed of calcium chloride at 280 rpm, dropping height at 17 cm between the tip of the nozzle and the surface of calcium chloride solution. Consequently, the fish roe analogs showed a high sphericity of 99.8±0.77% at optimal conditions.
Performance Improvement of Chitosan Suspension to Indicate Carbon Dioxide Concentration in the Packaged Food
Authors: Meng Xiangpeng , Jung Junho , Ko Sanghoon
Published: October 2016

The purposes of this study are to develop a chitosan suspension for the carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration indication of packaged food and to investigate the changes in the CO2 indication corresponding to 2-amino-2-methylpropan-1-ol (AMP) or 2-aminoethanol (monoethanolamine, MEA) addition. Chitosan suspension was prepared by adding chitosan (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4%) to distilled water and subsequently the pH of the suspension was adjusted to 7.0 after the addition of AMP or MEA. Changes in the pH and the turbidity of the chitosan suspension were measured over time under exposure in a normal atmosphere or 100% carbon dioxide environment. The pH of the chitosan suspension exposed at 100% carbon dioxide environment decreased rapidly up to approximately 6.3 in the initial CO2 exposure. The transmittance values of 0.1 and 0.2% chitosan suspensions with 5% AMP increased from 32 to 99% and from 19 to 86%, respectively. The addition of 5% AMP improved the visual indication performance of the chitosan suspension since it increased significantly the width of the transmittance value before and after CO2 exposure. The chitosan suspension with AMP has a potential to be used as a quality indicator of the packaged foods which produce carbon dioxide during storage and distribution.
Effects of the Ratio of Solute to Solvent on the Leaching Kinetics of Water Soluble Solids in Jujube (Zizyphus jujuba) Using a Hot-Water Batch System
Authors: Ham Tae Hoon , Jang Sun Min , Yoon Won Byong
Published: October 2016

We developed leaching kinetics models and a convective mass transfer model for water soluble solid in jujube (Zizyphus jujube) fruits with hot water. Hot-water leaching process was conducted at 90°C for 100 min. The ratio of solvent (volume, mL) to solid (mass, g) was set to varied ratios of 1:6, 1:8, 1:10, and 1:12.5. The mass transfer coefficients (k) were determined based on the 1st- and 2nd-order kinetic models. The amount of solvent influenced the extraction rate and yield. A higher extraction rate and a higher yield were obtained from a lower solvent to solute ratio (1:6, 1:8, 1:10) compared to high ratio (1:12.5). This implies that an appropriate amount of solvent (i.e., water) is necessary to conduct the extraction process of jujube fruit.
Development of ATC Tower Systems: Electronic Flight Strip System at LKPR and the Implementation of TAXI Milestone to SUM
Authors: Černý Pavel , Nesvadba Matěj , Pleninger Stanislav
Published: October 2016

This article describes the Electronic Flight Strip System used at Václav Havel Airport Prague and presents the results of an analysis of the clearance input from ATCOs. The outcomes indicate that various clearances are frequently issued together in a common time frame, usually depending on the traffic flow structure. The focus then moves towards the implementation of the TAXI milestone into the Start-Up Manager. The used statistic methods indicate that the amount of TTOT recalculations after AOBT decreases, but not significantly. However, the accuracy of TTOT after TAXI clearance is considerably better. The mean and most common deviation of ATOT from TTOT after the implementation of TAXI milestone is -1 minute. The results are challenged and confirmed by a further analysis of the TTOT-ATOT difference regarding individual stand/RWY pairs. The results may be used to adjust the assumed taxi times.
Methodology of the Auditing Measures to Civil Airport Security and Protection
Authors: Kolesár Ján , Melníková Lucia , Heralová Daniela , Daňko Petr
Published: October 2016

Airports similarly to other companies are certified in compliance with the International Standardization Organization (ISO) standards of products and services (series of ISO 9000 Standards regarding quality management), to coordinate the technical side of standardizatioon and normalization at an international scale. In order for the airports to meet the norms and the certification requirements as by the ISO they are liable to undergo strict audits of quality, as a rule, conducted by an independent auditing organization. Focus of the audits is primarily on airport operation economics and security. The article is an analysis into the methodology of the airport security audit processes and activities. Within the framework of planning, the sequence of steps is described in line with the principles and procedures of the Security Management System (SMS) and starndards established by the International Standardization Organization (ISO). The methodology of conducting airport security audit is developed in compliance with the national programme and international legislation standards (Annex 17) applicable to protection of civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference.
Shear Strength of the Selected Types of Pellets
Authors: Czachor Gabriel , Bohdziewicz Jerzy , Kawa Krzysztof
Published: October 2016

The usefulness of raw material obtained from oak leaves, waste from paper mass and fragments of Miscanthus was verified with regard to pellet production. A batch of pellets produced therefrom was subjected to technological shear tests with the use of prototype equipment. Also pellets produced by well-known Polish producers were tested. The suggested method of technological shear enables obtaining credible results through standardization of tests conditions. Statistical processing of results proved that there are significant differences in the values of shear strength and unit shear work obtained for both group of pellets. An experimental batch of pellets has a lower density and thus lower shear strength which limits the scope of industrial application. The research which was carried out proved that there is a strong correlation between mechanical strength and density.
Cutting of Woody Shrubs at Melioration Objects by a Multi-Rotor Mower With Trapezoidal Knives
Authors: Kaminski Jan Radosław , Kuboń Maciej , Mazugin Evgenij Ivanovič , Rubee Sergej Grigorevič
Published: October 2016

The object of the research is a technological process and technical means of cutting woody shrubs at melioration objects. The subject of the research consists of regularities and methods of execution of the process of cutting woody shrubs at melioration objects by a multirotor mower with trapezoidal knives. The aim of the research is to increase efficiency of cutting shrubs at melioration objects by applying a multi-rotor mower with trapezoidal knives. We have obtained analy tical dependences in order to determine the angle of diversion of a knife from the radial position during contact with the stem, and to calculate the reaction in the joint “knife-fixing bolt” depending on the parameters of a knife and rotor, and the distance from the centre of the knife fixing bolt to the point of contact of a knife and stem, which provides minimal impact load on the knife fixing bolt during cutting woody shrubs. We have also developed a mathematical model of the process of cutting shrubs by a multi-rotor mover with trapezoidal knives, and methods of determination of the main parameters and regimes of work of the mower cutting apparatus for cutting shrubs at melioration objects, which contain a monogram, based on the use of theoretical-experimental dependences.
Windrow Scarifier for Rotary Mower
Authors: Otroško Sergej , Ahlamov Jurij , Ševcov Aleksej , Kosolapov Vladimir , Marczuk Andrzej , Misztal Wojciech , Turski Andrzej
Published: October 2016

In order to accelerate the process of drying of grass mowed for hay and haylage there are numerous technological treatments: multiple tedding, raking in rolls and turning rolls, mechanical impact on green forage in the process of mowing by the use of presses and windrow scarifiers. Presently mechanical maceration of green forage with mowing is popular. Papilionaceous feed plants are subjected to windrow presses and graminacenous plants to beating working systems. Analysis of various devices for acceleration of the drying process of green forage proves that they are quite complex and expensive on account of considerable material consumption. In order to eliminate the faults in the Russian Scientific and Research Fodder Institute of Wiliams a completely different windrow scarifier for the rotary mower KR-2.4 M was developed. It has a simple structure and it serves for acceleration of field drying of mowed grass in loose rolls. The paper presents the results of the research on a mower with an experimental windrow scarifier
Analysis of Assumptions of the Environment Management System Implementation for the Selected Undertaking in Waste Management
Authors: Przydatek Grzegorz , Krok Rafał
Published: October 2016

The article presents the concept of the environmental management system. Moreover, organization frames of the undertaking related to eco-transport of waste were determined. Elements of the environmental management were characterized including the environmental aspect. They were subjected to interpretation in terms of reduction of the impact on the environment. In the context of constant improvement, the attention was paid to the influence of the analysed organization of its environmental activity. The objective of the paper is the analysis of assumptions which follow from the ISO 14001 standard including arrangement of the eco-transport of waste.
Impact of the System of Air Supply to a Milking Unit on Selected Parameters of Milking Machine Operation
Authors: Wiercioch Marian , Luberański Adam , Krzyś Aleksander , Skalska Danuta , Szlachta Józef
Published: October 2016

Air is supplied to a milking machine installation most usually in a constant manner by supply of a small amount of air to a milking chamber of a claw or periodically to a connection pipe of a liner, which enables milk outflow to a milking pipe and improves stabilization of vacuum and limits its fluctuations. On the market of milking machines there is a new solution in the form of mouthpiece vented liners - impulseair®, where air is supplied constantly by a calibrated nozzle in the head of a liner. The objective of the paper was to analyse and assess the selected parameters of milking determined in a milking machine with a claw with fixed volume of a milking chamber (250 cm3) with mouthpiece vented liners in comparison to other solutions used for air supply in milking machines. Measurements were carried out in laboratory conditions with milking to the upper milk pipeline, at variable mass intensities of liquid flow (within 0-8 kg·min−1), for three penetrations of artificial teats (46, 48, 62 mm), at three values of the system vacuum (46, 48 and 50 kPa). A significant impact of the manner of air supply to a milking machine and remaining independent variables of an experiment on the selected milking parameters was proved with the use of a statistical analysis. It was found that a milking unit with mouthpiece vented liners, although it reduces average vacuum of suction [pss], at the same time it limits fluctuations of underpressure in the dp cycle.
Single-Step Antimicrobial And Moisture Management Finishing Of Pc Fabric Using Zno Nanoparticles
Authors: Ashraf Munir , Siyal Muhammad Irfan , Nazir Ahsan , Rehman Abdur
Published: October 2016

Functionalization of textile fabrics with metal oxide nanoparticles can be used to add antibacterial and moisture management properties to them. Current work focuses on the development of these properties on polyester/cotton woven fabrics by treating them with zinc oxide nanoparticles for workwear and sportswear applications. Zinc oxide nanoparticles, prepared by sol-gel method, were applied on fabric samples, which were then tested for antibacterial and moisture management properties using standard test methods AATCC 147 with Staphylococcus aureus and AATCC 195, respectively. It was found that application of ZnO nanoparticles improved both these properties with smaller particle imparting larger effects on both of them.
Triangulation Reconstruction for 3D Surface Based on Information Model
Authors: Li Na , Yang Jiquan , Guo Aiqing , Liu Yijian , Liu Hai
Published: October 2016

The aim of this paper is to address the surface reconstruction from point cloud in reverser engineering. The data was acquired through a 3D scan device and was processed as point cloud data. The points in cloud were connected to build 3D surface. The points cloud was processed in four steps to get 3D information surface. First, the subtraction scheme was used to get cover boxes ended with the set of convex was found under the convergence rule. Secondly, the points in the box were projected to the directions which were close to the normal direction method. Thirdly the overlap was avoided by using convergence rule and inner subdivision rule. Finally the information model was used to reconstruction. The method was used in landslide monitoring of Three Gorges area for 3D surface reconstruction and monitoring. The reconstruction method obtains high precision and low complexity. It is effective for large scale monitoring.
Nighttime Pedestrian Ranging Algorithm Based on Monocular Vision
Authors: Wang Hongxia , Kang Xue-Xue , Yu Yang
Published: October 2016

Since the traditional computer vision ranging algorithm is imperfect in pertinence and precision, night time monocular vision pedestrian ranging method is proposed for vehicular infrared night vision goggles. Firstly, the method calibrated the internal and external parameters of infrared night-vision goggles, then, it corrected distortion of collected Vehicular Infrared Night Vision Image, and finally it ranged objective pedestrians by using night time monocular vision pedestrian ranging algorithm. The experimental results show that this method has the characteristics of pertinence, high precision and good real-time, and has good practicability.
A comparative study on learning strategies used by Australian CFL and Chinese EFL learners
Authors: Jiang Wenying , Wu Qingyu
Published: October 2016

This study compared language learning strategies used by Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) learners in Australia and English as a foreign language (EFL) learners in China through Oxford’s (1990. Language learning strategies: What every teacher should know. Boston: Heinle and Heinle.) Strategy Inventory of Language Learning (SILL) questionnaire survey. Two cohorts of learners, namely Australian CFL learners (N=101) and Chinese EFL learners (N=100), participated in this study. It was found that the most frequently used strategies by the Chinese EFL learners were compensation strategies and the least frequently used strategies were memory strategies while the most frequently used strategies by the Australian CFL learners were social strategies and the least frequently used strategies were affective strategies. Australian female learners used slightly more strategies than male learners, but no difference was found in the strategies used by the Chinese EFL male and female learners. No significant difference was found either in the strategies used by learners of different grade levels, regardless of whether they were Chinese EFL or Australian CFL learners. Scores of some individual categories significantly differed between the three levels of the Australian CFL learners and the four levels of the Chinese EFL learners. In general the Chinese EFL learners used more strategies when compared with those used by the Australian CFL learners. Pedagogical implications of the findings were also discussed. This study contributes to the research in language learning strategies in that it considers the typological distance between learners’ L1 and the target language for the first time. It also has clarified the seemingly inconsistent findings in the literature in terms of memory strategies use by Asian learners (Chinese learners in this case): when compared with other categories of strategies, memory strategies were used the least frequently by the Chinese EFL learners; when compared with learners from other cultural backgrounds such as the Australian or American, the Chinese EFL learners used memory strategies more frequently.
Influence of Reservoirs on the Concentration of Nutrients in the Water of Mountain Rivers
Authors: Kijowska-Strugała Małgorzata , Wiejaczka Łukasz , Kozłowski Rafał
Published: October 2016

The aim of the analysis was to demonstrate the role of reservoirs in shaping nutrient content (nitrates NO3
- and phosphates PO4
3- as well as ammonia NH4
+) in the waters of mountain rivers. Three Carpathian rivers with reservoirs in their courses were selected for the study: the Ropa River (Klimkowka reservoir), the Dunajec River (the Czorsztyn-Sromowce Wyzne reservoir complex) and the Raba River (Dobczyce reservoir). The basic criteria for the selection of the study objects for the investigation were: similar hydrological regime of the rivers and diverse parameters and functions of the storage reservoirs. The analysis of nutrient concentration was based on a long-term series of measurements (2004-2013). The reservoirs investigated generally contribute to an increase in nitrates in the rivers flowing below the reservoirs in particular months. The role of reservoirs in shaping phosphate and ammonia levels was not as evident as in the case of nitrates. The reservoirs are merely one of numerous factors that contribute to nutrient levels in the water of the mountains rivers. In the light of the analysis of nutrient concentrations in the surface water tested, it may be concluded that the reservoirs do not cause a clear and permanent deterioration of river water quality.
The Effect of Hemp Essential Oil on Mortality Aulacorthum Solani Kalt. And Tetranychus Urticae Koch
Authors: Górski Romuald , Sobieralski Krzysztof , Siwulski Marek
Published: October 2016

Investigations concerning the effect of hemp oil on mortality of the foxglove aphid (Aulacorthum solani Kalt.) and the two spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) were conducted in the years 2014-2015. The tested essential oil was produced at the Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants in Poznan. It was obtained by steam distillation of fresh panicles of Polish hemp cultivars, Beniko, Bialobrzeskie and Silesia, with low cannabinoid contents, including THC (max. 0.2% plant fresh matter). The effect of essential oil on the investigated pests was determined following the application of aqueous emulsion solution at 0.02, 0.05 and 0.1%. Mortality of agrophages was determined 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment. In this study a very high efficacy of the essential oil produced from hemp panicles was found in the reduction of population size of the foxglove aphid (A. solani). Already at 24 h after its application at a concentration of 0.1% pest mortality rate was 98.20%, while after 48 h it reached 100%. A significant, although much lesser effect of oil on the aphid population was recorded when applying it at 0.05%, with the mortality rate of the true bug after 72 h amounting to 57.33%. Essential oil also showed an effect on the two spotted spider mite (T. urticae). Following the oil application, irrespective of its concentration, a significant effect on mite mortality was observed. Its action was the strongest at its highest concentration, ie 0.1%, while mortality of the pest at 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment was 83.28, 95.83 and 98.72%, respectively.
On Efficiency of Selected Machine Learning Algorithms for Intrusion Detection in Software Defined Networks
Authors: Jankowski Damian , Amanowicz Marek
Published: October 2016

We propose a concept of using Software Defined Network (SDN) technology and machine learning algorithms for monitoring and detection of malicious activities in the SDN data plane. The statistics and features of network traffic are generated by the native mechanisms of SDN technology. In order to conduct tests and a verification of the concept, it was necessary to obtain a set of network workload test data. We present virtual environment which enables generation of the SDN network traffic. The article examines the efficiency of selected machine learning methods: Self Organizing Maps and Learning Vector Quantization and their enhanced versions. The results are compared with other SDN-based IDS.
Steganography Training: a Case Study from University of Shumen in Bulgaria
Authors: Stanev Stanimir , Szczypiorski Krzysztof
Published: October 2016

This paper summarizes the experience and the learning outcomes of students of the “Informatics” specialty at the Episkop Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen (Bulgaria) on the problems of computer and network security as a component of their professional training. It is a continuous process starting from the “Computer steganography” course and turning into diploma papers, masters programs, specializations and PhDs in computer and network steganography. The outcome of this training would be bachelors and masters theses, practical activities of experimentation of stego software and steganology in a parallel computing environment, joint scientific publications of lecturers and students.
Feasibility Study of Grid Connected PV-Biomass Integrated Energy System in Egypt
Authors: Barakat Shimaa , Samy M. M. , Eteiba Magdy B. , Wahba Wael Ismael
Published: October 2016

The aim of this paper is to present a feasibility study of a grid connected photovoltaic (PV) and biomass Integrated renewable energy (IRE) system providing electricity to rural areas in the Beni Suef governorate, Egypt. The system load of the village is analyzed through the environmental and economic aspects. The model has been designed to provide an optimal system configuration based on daily data for energy availability and demands. A case study area, Monshaet Taher village (29° 1′ 17.0718”N, 30° 52′ 17.04”E) is identified for economic feasibility in this paper. HOMER optimization model plan imputed from total daily load demand, 2,340 kWh/day for current energy consuming of 223 households with Annual Average Insolation Incident on a Horizontal Surface of 5.79 (kWh/m2/day) and average biomass supplying 25 tons / day. It is found that a grid connected PV-biomass IRE system is an effective way of emissions reduction and it does not increase the investment of the energy system.
Crystal structure of (E)-4-nitro-2-((2-phenoxyphenylimino)methyl)phenol, C19H14N2O4
Authors: Köysal Yavuz , Bülbül Hakan , Kantar Esen Nur , Coşkun Emine , Şahin Songül , Dege Necmi
Published: October 2016

C19H14N2O4, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 11.8219(12) Å, b = 6.1210(4) Å, c = 22.356(2) Å, β = 94.403(8)°, V = 1612.9(3) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0545, wR
ref(F2) = 0.0938, T = 293(2) K.
Technology of Spatial Data Geometrical Simplification in Maritime Mobile Information System for Coastal Waters
Authors: Kazimierski Witold , Włodarczyk-Sielicka Marta
Published: October 2016

The paper undertakes the subject of spatial data pre-processing for marine mobile information systems. Short review of maritime information systems is given and the focus is laid on mobile systems. The need of spatial data generalization is underlined and the concept of technology for such generalization in mobile system is presented. The research part of the paper presents the results of analyzes on selected parameters of simplification in the process of creating mobile navigation system for inland waters. In the study authors focused on selected layers of system. Models of simplification for layers with line features and with polygons were tested. The parameters of tested models were modified for the purposes of study. The article contains tabular results with statistics and spatial visualization of selected layers for individual scales.
Mapserver – Information Flow Management Software for The Border Guard Distributed Data Exchange System
Authors: Blok Marek , Kaczmarek Sylwester , Młynarczuk Magdalena , Narloch Marcin
Published: October 2016

In this paper the architecture of the software designed for management of position and identification data of floating and flying objects in Maritime areas controlled by Polish Border Guard is presented. The software was designed for managing information stored in a distributed system with two variants of the software, one for a mobile device installed on a vessel, an airplane or a car and second for a central server. The details of implementation of all functionalities of the MapServer in both, mobile and central, versions are briefly presented on the basis of information flow diagrams.
A Method for The Assessing of Reliability Characteristics Relevant to an Assumed Position-Fixing Accuracy in Navigational Positioning Systems
Authors: Specht Cezary , Rudnicki Jacek
Published: October 2016

This paper presents a method which makes it possible to determine reliability characteristics of navigational positioning systems, relevant to an assumed value of permissible error in position fixing. The method allows to calculate: availability , reliability as well as operation continuity of position fixing system for an assumed, determined on the basis of formal requirements - both worldwide and national, position-fixing accuracy. The proposed mathematical model allows to satisfy, by any navigational positioning system, not only requirements as to position-fixing accuracy of a given navigational application (for air , sea or land traffic) but also the remaining characteristics associated with technical serviceability of a system.

Essence of the method in question consists in the working-out of recorded empirical position-fixing data as well as the making use of multi-state Markov processes ( appropriate to a maximum error value permissible for various navigational applications ) as a result of which reliability characteristics based on real data would be determined. About usefulness of a given navigational positioning system for its possible application would decide a vector of variables (both dealing with position and reliability) which satisfies / or does not satisfy / formal navigational requirements for a given application.
A Model of Fuel Combustion Process in The Marine Reciprocating Engine Work Space Taking Into Account Load and Wear of Crankshaft-Piston Assembly and The Theory of Semi-Markov Processes
Authors: Girtler Jerzy
Published: October 2016

The article analyses the operation of reciprocal internal combustion engines, with marine engines used as an example. The analysis takes into account types of energy conversion in the work spaces (cylinders) of these engines, loads of their crankshaft-piston assemblies, and types of fuel combustion which can take place in these spaces during engine operation. It is highlighted that the analysed time-dependent loads of marine internal combustion engine crankshaft-piston assemblies are random processes. It is also indicated that the wear of elements of those assemblies resulting from their load should also be considered a random process. A hypothesis is formulated which explains random nature of load and the absence of the theoretically expected detonation combustion in engines supplied with such fuels as Diesel Oil, Marine Diesel Oil, and Heavy Fuel Oil. A model is proposed for fuel combustion in an arbitrary work space of a marine Diesel engine, which has the form of a stochastic four-state process, discrete in states and continuous in time. The model is based on the theory of semi-Markov processes.
Assessment of a Boat Fractured Steering Wheel
Authors: Vukelic Goran
Published: October 2016

During regular use of the steering wheel mounted on a boat, two cracks emanating from a fastener hole were noticed which, consequently, caused final fracture of the wheel. To determine the behavior of a boat steering wheel with cracks present, assessment of a fractured wheel was performed. Torque moments of the fasteners were measured prior to removing the steering wheel from the boat. Visual and dye penetrant inspection followed along with the material detection. Besides using experimental procedures, assessment of the fractured wheel was performed using finite element analysis, i.e. stress intensity factor values were numerically determined. Variation of stress intensity factor with crack length is presented. Possible causes of crack occurrence are given and they include excessive values of fastener torque moments coupled with fretting between fastener and fastener hole that was poorly machined. Results obtained by this assessment can be taken for predicting fracture behavior of a cracked steering wheel and as a reference in the design, mounting and exploitation process of steering wheels improving that way their safety in transportation environment.
Identity dimensions versus proactive coping in late adolescence while taking into account biological sex and psychological gender
Authors: Kalka Dorota , Karcz Bartosz
Published: October 2016

The aim of study was to investigate the relationship between proactive coping strategies and the dimensions of identity formation, along with the role of biological sex and psychological gender as moderators for this relationship. We conducted analyses aimed at showing differences in terms of identity dimensions levels and proactive coping strategies used by a group of individuals with different biological sex and psychological gender. A group of 101 students from upper secondary schools (47 females, 54 males) from Pomeranian Voivodeship took part in the study. We used in our research The Dimensions of Identity Development Scale; The Psychological Gender Inventory and The Proactive Coping Inventory for Adolescents. We found, among others, that in the case of a proactive strategy, biological sex turned out to be a significant moderator in the relationship between this variable and identity dimensions: ruminative exploration, commitment-making and identification with commitment. In the case of instrumental support seeking, psychological gender turned out to be a significant moderator for the relationship between these variables and a part of identity dimensions. The obtained results show that, regardless of whether young people, in terms of characteristics that are stereotypically associated with biological sex, are described as aschematic (undifferentiated individuals) or schematic (sex-typed) when entering adulthood and attempting to constitute themselves, more often cope in a task-oriented manner by trying to create a set of information useful in difficult situations and aspire to obtain informational support from individuals in one’s own social network, who are regarded as safe people.
Psychology Students Try on the Role of Educational Diagnosticians. Preliminary Studies
Authors: Niemierko Bolesław
Published: October 2016

The aim of the studies was to ascertain how far psychology students are ready to learn the vocation of education assistants to children and youth. Four general ways of acquiring knowledge and skills - by assimilation, by doing, by discovering, and by impression - were distinguished and interpreted with regard to the students’ prospective employment in educational institutions. Learning by doing (model Beta) and by impression (model Delta) turned out to be more expressive in the student self-reports than learning by assimilation (model Alpha) and by discovering (model Gamma).

A proof that the Nosal/Paluchowski typology of diagnosticians applies to psychology students was also in search. However, the pertinent Educational Diagnostician Inventory appeared satisfactorily valid only for those psychology sophomores who manifested the best-shaped attitudes towards educational diagnoses. They belonged mostly to concrete-objective (Proceduralist) and global-subjective (Intuitionist) attitude categories. Transactional analysis partly supported these findings of the survey.