bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Field of Aerodynamic Potentials and Surroundings of Goaf on Methane Hazard in Longwall N-12 In Seam 329/1, 329/1-2 in “Krupiński” Coal Mine / Wpływ Pola Potencjałów Aerodynamicznych Oraz Otoczenia Zrobów Na Zagrożenie Metanowe W Ścianie N-12 W Pokładzie 329/1, 329/1-2 W Kwk „Krupiński”
Authors: Dziurzyński Wacław , Krause Eugeniusz
Published: February 2013

Designing exploitation in seams in surroundings of strongly methane bearing seam assumes particular importance in conditions of the growing concentration of output. While planning exploitation, calculations results of predictions of methane emission to longwalls form a basis for selection of a mode of ventilation scope of utilized prevention, including methane drainage, as well as planned volume of coal output.

Performed in the article, systematic analysis of methane hazard in longwall N-12 in seam 329/1, 329/1-2 in ‘Krupiński’ Coal Mine, in which on 5.05.2011 took place methane ignition, allowed to determine factors forming methane hazard in this longwall while taking into consideration location of longwall parcel relative to previous mining in this seam. Occurring discrepancies between total amount of methane emitted to longwall N-12 and forecast value indicate circumstances of additional inflow of methane from outside of its environment. Confirmation of such methane flow are results of calculations of distribution of the field of aerodynamic potentials in workings contouring mined out longwall N-14 and mining of longwall N-12, as well as, being a relevant particularity, results of methane bearing determination on coal pillar separating post-exploitation goaf of both longwalls. The article emphasizes the necessity of taking into account, at the stage of designing longwalls, ventilation conditions and the influence of the field of aerodynamic potentials on the possibility of goaf gases flow which may contribute to the increase of methane hazard.
Reflective Practise at Prague College
Authors: Buehler Jeffrey
Published: February 2013

1.

Prague College aspired in its first tentative steps into higher and further education to create the right conditions for learning by providing the required resources, qualified academic faculty, and sound administrative systems. Over its short existence the college did in this way achieve a certain level of stability and experience as an institution. Nevertheless, despite achieving some success at providing students with an education, it became less clear why the same problems consistently cropped up, in repeating patterns that confounded the many patchwork solutions provided.

The aim of this paper is to summarise the work done in the dissertation Assessing the Potential for Reflective practise within a College-wide Professional Development Strategy (Buehler, 2011). Based on this research, the paper will explore how the Prague College faculty, and in particular its leaders, would view reflective practise as a tool for self and organisational learning, and what its role might be within a new strategy for professional development. The research drew on both articu­lated and observed communication as it sought to answer the following questions in relation to the topic:

To what degree is reflective practise already actively present in the college systems and processes?

2. How is it currently understood and practised by faculty at the college?

3. What are the attitudes of the faculty towards the introduction of reflective practise?

4. What is most needed in terms of formal reflective practise?

5. What are the leadership and management considerations, including national cultural, that hinge on ef­fective implementation of a new professional development strategy, and how might these considerations inform the strategy?
Using Concatenated Steganography for Visual Analysis in GIS SOA
Authors: Yershov Andrew , Zabiniako Vitaly , Semenchuk Pavel
Published: February 2013

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) perform the computational processing of geographic data and store the geometry and the attributes of data that are geo-referenced, that is, situated on the earth surface and represented in a cartographic projection. Integral part of GIS functionality is an opportunity to make a complex analysis, which is able to integrate geo-referenced imagery as data layers or themes and link them to other data sets producing geospatial renderings of data. Based on Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) GIS expose its capabilities as Web services with purpose to create a flexible and extensible GIS that can quickly respond to changing and future organizational needs. In that case client’s application sends specially formed requests to the GIS services and ensures visual processing of responses. But the drawback is the count of such requests, because imaginary data and data needed for analysis are received sequentially (not simultaneously). The purpose of this paper is to present the solution of decreasing the amount of geo-requests, enabling extensions to existing GIS visual analysis tools and bringing into GIS SOA synchronization mechanism designed on principles of concatenated steganography. This ensures that various geospatial data streams will be kept, transmitted and analytically processed together using concatenated steganography, strongly taking into account mutual relations between these streams.
Types of Metaphors in The English Legal Discourse
Authors: Jumanca Romaniţa
Published: February 2013

The main purpose of my paper is that of analyzing English legal discourse and legal texts belonging to different genres within the same subject field, in this case legal English, from the point of view of the variety of metaphors it consists of. Metaphor represents one among many other elements of legal discourse.
Spectrum of Mycotic corneal ulcers in Mid Western peripheral region of Terrain belt of Nepal and Indo-Nepal Border
Authors: Bastola P , Mishra A , Chaudhary N , Nath HK , Mehrotra AN
Published: February 2013

Background: The study was set in two different tertiary eye care hospitals of Nepal. The study area covered a large population of mid western, far western peripheral terrain regions of Nepal as well as the corresponding Indo-Nepal border. Looking at the high prevalence of mycotic corneal ulcers in the region, the study aimed to find out the pattern of culture proven fungal corneal isolates in diagnosed cases of mycotic corneal ulcers. Methods: A prospective hospital based study was carried out on 2768 consecutive patients presenting with corneal ulcer in the outpatient department of Ophthalmology in Nepalgunj Medical College and Nepalgunj Eye Hospital, Nepalgunj Nepal from July, 2011 to July, 2012. Patient particulars with regard to the socio demographic data, predisposing risk factors, prior treatment modalities, laboratory results and the distribution pattern of culture proven fungal isolates were analyzed. Results: Diagnosis of various types of pure fungal keratitis was established post investigations in 760 (27.45%) of all patients. Men 444 (58.42%) were more commonly affected than women. The young adults age group of 31-40 years was most commonly involved 220 (28.94%) in number. Trauma or injury to cornea 431 (56.71%) was the commonest predisposing risk factor. Fusarium species (Fusarium spp.) were the commonest fungal isolates accounting for 287 (37.76%) of diagnosed fungal ulcer cases, followed by curvularia 136 (17.89%). Conclusion: Fusarium species are the commonest fungal isolates in cases of fungal corneal ulcer in mid western peripheral terrain belt of Nepal followed by curvularia and unidentified dematiaceous fungi. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 42-47 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7651
Predictors of seatbelt and helmet usage among victims seeking care at emergency department in a tertiary care hospital in rural Northern India.
Authors: Chaudhary C , Singh A , Pathak R , Ahluwalia SK , Goel RKD , Mithra P
Published: February 2013

Background: Despite the introduction of seat belt and helmet legislation their use in India is still not satisfactory. The present study was therefore conducted to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with safety belt and helmet non-use among Emergency Department (ED) patients seeking care at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Methods: The present cross sectional study with systematic sampling was carried out among stable, non-urgent ED patients aged more than 18 years using pretested questionnaire during July to December 2011. Safety belt use was defined via two methods: a single-item and a multiple-item measure of safety belt use. Results: Outcome for multivariate logistic regression analysis was safety belt use less than ‘always’. Of 350 patients approached, 280 (80%) participated. The prevalence of safety belt/helmet use ‘always’ was 31% and 16% respectively using two different survey measures. Male gender, maximum alcohol consumption of greater than 5 drinks in a single episode, riding with others that drink and drive, ever receiving a traffic citation for not wearing a safety belt or helmet, the belief that safety belt use is “uncomfortable”, and that “I just forget to use my seatbelt” were risks for safety belt non-use according to the Single Measure of Safety Belt/ Helmet Use, while “it’s my usual habit” was protective. Conclusion: Findings of the study warrants urgent need to take measures or targeted interventions in order to increase safety belt and helmet use among this high risk population. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 57-61 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7653
An Epidemiological Study of Psychiatric Cases in a Rural Community of Nepal
Authors: Khattri JB , Poudel BM , Thapa P , Godar ST , Tirkey S , Ramesh K , Chakrabortty PK
Published: February 2013

Background: Psychiatric cases are widespread in rural communities of Nepal and there is scarcity of data. The present work was undertaken to study the psychiatric cases and its association with different socio-demographic variables. Methods: A house to house survey was done with simple random method (n=261) in Kusmi Village Development Committee of Baglung District. A semi-structures proforma was used to record the socio-demographic variables and General Health Questinnaire-12 (GHQ-12) was administered to assess the psychiatric cases. Results: The overall prevalence of psychiatric cases was found to be 37.5 percent. The psychiatric cases were found more in age above 30 years, in males and in other caste (Dalit/Nepali). The maximum number of cases was also elicited in unskilled workers, married group and people who were using alcohol. Conclusion: The study concludes that there is high prevalence of psychiatric cases in rural community in Nepal. This also calls the need to strengthen the mental health services in the rural community and to address the risk factors associated with psychiatric cases. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 52-56 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7654
Clinical manifestations of hypothyroidism in residents of western region of Nepal: A case control study
Authors: Paudel B , Paudel K , Upadhaya TL
Published: February 2013

Background: This study was designed for the evaluation of the difference in the common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in our population from already available literature. Methods: In this study we have compared the symptoms and signs of hypothyroid and euthyroid patients visiting to Gandaki Medical College Teaching Hospital (GMCTH) from April 2011 to October 2011. We compared the 18 common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in our patients and analyzed by SPSS software. Results: Of the 2483 patients visiting to the GMCTH, 665 patients were included in the study and were examined. After the laboratory investigations, 98 were identified as the cases of hypothyroidism, the rest were declared as euthyroid and selected as controls. Lethargy, cold intolerance, constipation and paresthesia were the commonest symptom while facial oedema and bradycardia were the most prevalent sign in our population. Conclusions: The most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in the western region of Nepal (that is one of the iodine deficient areas in Nepal) were different from other studies. It seems that strong clinical suspicion on the basis of symptoms and signs elicited by physicians and laboratory confirmation are the only reliable methods for diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 62-65 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7655
Prosthetic rehabilitation in a partially edentulous patient with lost vertical dimension: a clinical report
Authors: Joshi P
Published: February 2013

Rehabilitation becomes more challenging with the partial edentulism where bilateral segment is found missing. The collapse of posterior teeth also results in the loss of normal occlusal plane and the reduction of the vertical dimension. This case report describes the rehabilitation of a 65-year old female patient with multiple missing teeth and severe loss of tooth structure. The maxillary arch was restored with fixed partial dentures and the mandibular arch using porcelain fused to metal crowns and removable prosthodontics. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 77-80 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7658
Micro-Eukaryotic Diversity in Hypolithons from Miers Valley, Antarctica
Authors: Gokul Jarishma , Valverde Angel , Tuffin Marla , Cary Stephen , Cowan Don
Published: February 2013

The discovery of extensive and complex hypolithic communities in both cold and hot deserts has raised many questions regarding their ecology, biodiversity and relevance in terms of regional productivity. However, most hypolithic research has focused on the bacterial elements of the community. This study represents the first investigation of micro-eukaryotic communities in all three hypolith types. Here we show that Antarctic hypoliths support extensive populations of novel uncharacterized bryophyta, fungi and protists and suggest that well known producer-decomposer-predator interactions may create the necessary conditions for hypolithic productivity in Antarctic deserts.
Controlled Release of Damascone from Poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride)-based Bioconjugates in Functional Perfumery
Authors: Berthier Damien , Paret Nicolas , Trachsel Alain , Fieber Wolfgang , Herrmann Andreas
Published: February 2013

Poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride)s were modified with poly(propylene oxide (PO)-co-ethylene oxide (EO)) side chains (Jeffamine®) with different EO/PO molar ratios, varying between 0.11 and 3.60. These copolymers were then further functionalized with a β-mercapto ketone of δ-damascone. The obtained poly(maleic acid monoamide)-based β-mercapto ketones were then studied as delivery systems for the controlled release of δ-damascone by retro 1,4-addition. The release of δ-damascone, a volatile, bioactive molecule of the family of rose ketones, was studied by dynamic headspace analysis above a cotton surface after deposition of a cationic surfactant containing fabric softening formulation, as a function of the ethylene oxide (EO)/propylene oxide (PO) molar ratio of the grafted copolymer side chains. The polarity of the EO/PO side chain influenced the release efficiency of the damascone in a typical fabric softening application. PO-rich copolymers and the corresponding poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) without Jeffamine® side chains were found to be less efficient for the desired fragrance release than the corresponding bioconjugate with a EO/PO ratio of 3.60 in the side chain. This copolymer conjugate seemed to represent a suitable balance between hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity to favor the release of the δ-damascone and to improve the deposition of the conjugate from an aqueous environment onto a cotton surface.
The Behavior Intention of Tunisian Banks’ Customers on using Internet Banking
Authors: Charfeddine Lanouar , Nasri Wadie
Published: February 2013

This paper examines empirically the factors affecting the adoption of internet banking in Tunisia using the Theory of Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Security and privacy construct were selected as additional factors because of their potent influence on the use of internet banking system. For this purpose, a Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) is employed to examine the inter-correlations among the seven proposed constructs. A survey involving a total of 284 respondents is conducted and confirmatory factor analysis used to determine the measurement efficacies. This study confirms the appropriateness of TAM, TPB, and the security and privacy construct in predicting intention to use internet banking in a Tunisian banking environment. This research reveals that TAM and TPB could be used to provide a solid theoretical foundation of internet banking in Tunisian acceptance case. The study contributes to the literature of internet banking in Tunisia.
Termite-Hill
Authors: Zungeru Adamu Murtala , Ang Li-Minn , Seng Kah Phooi
Published: February 2013

Termites present a good natural metaphor to evolutionary computation. While each individual’s computational power is small compared to more evolved species, it is the power of their colonies that inspires communication engineers. This paper presents a study of artificial termites in sensor networks for the purpose of solving its’ routing problem. The behaviours of each of the termites in their colony allow their simulation in a restricted environment. The simulating behaviour demonstrates how the termites make use of an autocatalytic behaviour to collectively find a solution for a posed problem in reasonable time. The derived algorithm termed Termite-hill demonstrates the principle of termites’ behavior to routing problem solving in the real applications of sensor networks. The performance of the algorithm was tested on static and dynamic sink scenarios. The results as compared with other routing algorithms and with varying network density show that Termite-hill is scalable and improved on network energy consumption with a control over best-effort-service.
Sulphur application does not improve wheat yield and protein concentration
Authors: Karamanos R. E. , Harapiak J. T. , Flore N. A.
Published: February 2013

Karamanos, R. E., Harapiak, J. T. and Flore N. A. 2013. Sulphur application does not improve wheat yield and protein concentration. Can. J. Soil Sci. 93: 223–228. Grain protein plays an important role in the milling and baking quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum). The question is whether application of sulphur, an important constituent of proteins and amino acids, impacts wheat grain protein concentration. A 3-yr 10-site experiment was set up to determine if of sulphur (S) fertilization (0 and 25 kg S ha−1) affects Canada west red spring (CWRS) and Durum grain yield and protein levels, when combined with various rates of nitrogen (N) fertilizer (0, 40, 60, 80 and 100 kg N ha−1). Soils at the 10 sites varied from S deficient to S sufficient, based on criteria in western Canada. Application of 25 kg S ha−1 resulted in no yield or grain protein concentration increases, regardless of the level of N fertilizer applied or the level of soil “available” S (0–30 cm). However, high N fertilizer rates (80 and 100 kg N ha−1) plus S fertilization improved yield and protein concentration when growing season (May, June, July) precipitation was favourable for CWRS and Durum wheat. In conclusion, we suggest that indiscriminate application of S fertilizer will not increase protein concentration for CWRS and Durum wheat grain.
Two-Grid Finite-Element Method for the Two-Dimensional Time-Dependent Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Zhang Hongmei , Jin Jicheng , Wang Jianyun
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we construct semi-discrete two-grid finite element schemes and full-discrete two-grid finite element schemes for the two-dimensional time-dependent Schrödinger equation. The semi-discrete schemes are proved to be convergent with an optimal convergence order and the full-discrete schemes, verified by a numerical example, work well and are more efficient than the standard finite element method.
Position/Force Control for a Single Leg of a Quadruped Robot in an Operation Space
Authors: Zhang Taihui , Wei Qing , Ma Hongxu
Published: February 2013

For a quadruped robot, to make full use of the sensors, especially the force sensor installed on the foot and adapt to the environment well, a kind of position/force control method is proposed in this paper. A quadruped mobile robot single leg model is established in this paper and its dynamic equation in a joint space is deduced by using the Lagrange equation. Then the model is transformed in the joint space into an operation space, based on the operation space coordinates, via kinematic relations. Next the new position/force control law on the base of the operation space dynamic equation is designed. In the end, the controller in the MatLab simulation environment is tested.
Relative Localization Method of Multiple Micro Robots Based on Simple Sensors
Authors: Mao Ling , Chen Jiapin , Li Zhenbo , Zhang Dawei
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a simple relative positioning algorithm for multiple micro robots. The micro robot is designed as a differential driven vehicle and actuated by MEMS-based electromagnetic micromotors. A simple relative positioning approach based only on one infrared emitter, receiver and compass is presented. Using this method, we characterized the accuracy of positioning between robots and identified sources of imprecision. Finally, this module is clearly demonstrated with the autonomous docking of multiple micro robots. The ability of our algorithm makes it cost effective and easy to deploy its application to multiple micro robots.
Networked Haptic Interaction to Implement “Hand in Hand” Human Motor Skill Training for Tank Gunnery
Authors: Liu Guanyang , Lu Keke , Zhang Yuru , Liu Lingzhi
Published: February 2013

The “hand in hand” approach has been validated as effective in human motor skill training, such as handwriting, drawing, driving and so on. This paper proposes a networked haptic interaction system to simulate the “hand in hand” training scheme for tank gunnery which requires tank gunners to complete tasks accurately and quickly. In the haptic-based training system, a network connecting two haptic devices plays the role of putting hands together, based on which the algorithms of haptic guidance and correction in real-time are developed for skill transmission between experts and trainees. The manner in which the traditional spring-damper model plays a role for high speed and high precision skill training is focused upon, since accuracy and operating speed are both critical in tank gunnery. An unbalanced spring control scheme is presented to benefit experts in accurately regulating trainees' operations without considering whether trainees are obedient in doing so.
Heidegger: a vida como possibilidade e mistério
Authors: Ramos dos Reis Róbson
Published: February 2013

O objetivo deste artigo é identificar uma estrutura fundamental, resultante da ontologia da vida orgânica esboçada por Heidegger nos Conceitos Fundamentais da Metafísica,que pode ser designada como “o mistério na vida”. Na primeira parte do texto destacoalguns elementos gerais da hermenêutica da vida. Na segunda, reconstruo a interpretação ontológica dos organismos animais que conduz ao conceito de aptidão, cuja determinação ontológica é que faz necessária a introdução de uma classe especial depossibilidade: o ser-possível como ser-apto. Na terceira parte, apresento a caracterização heideggeriana das aptidões como envolvimentos em comportamentos estruturados pela perturbação cativada (Benommenheit), ressaltando como a perturbação impedeque aos comportamentos possa ser atribuída a estrutura do algo enquanto algo, implicando que os organismos estão abertos a algo que não se lhes apresenta como aberto. Considerando a relacionalidade intrínseca aos organismos, essa limitação implica aimpossibilidade de determinar completamente a essência da vida. Portanto, argumento na última parte, a ontologia da vida elaborada por Heidegger não apenas exige um tipo especial de possibilidade para conceitualizar o ser apto orgânico, mas também resulta no reconhecimento de um mistério na vida.
Risk Factors for Falls in Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Stanmore Emma K. , Oldham Jackie , Skelton Dawn A. , O'Neill Terence , Pilling Mark , Campbell A. John , Todd Chris
Published: February 2013

Objective

To investigate the association between potential risk factors and falls in community‐dwelling adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We followed patients for 1 year of followup in a prospective cohort study with monthly falls calendars and telephone calls. Lower extremity muscle strength, postural stability, number of swollen and tender joints, functional status, history of falling, fear of falling, pain, fatigue, medication, and use of steroids were assessed as risk factors for falls.

Results

A total of 386 women and 173 men with RA (n = 559) ages 18–88 years completed baseline assessments and 535 participants (96%) completed 1‐year followup. Bivariate logistic regression showed that falls risk was not associated with age or sex. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that a history of multiple falls in the previous 12 months was the most significant predictive risk factor (odds ratio [OR] 5.3, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.3–12.3). The most significant modifiable risk factors were swollen and tender lower extremity joints (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.7), psychotropic medication (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–3.1), and fatigue (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.2).

Conclusion

Adults with RA are at high risk of falls. In clinical practice, high‐risk fall patients with RA can be identified by asking whether patients have fallen in the past year. Important risk factors highlighted in this study include swollen and tender lower extremity joints, fatigue, and use of psychotropic medications.
Thermal Characterization of Test Techniques for FinFET and 3D Integrated Circuits
Authors: Tang Aoxiang , Jha Niraj K.
Published: February 2013

Power consumption has become a very important consideration during integrated circuit (IC) design and test. During test, it can far exceed the values reached during normal operation and, thus, lead to temperatures above the allowed threshold. Without appropriate temperature reduction, permanent damage may be caused to the IC or invalid test results may be obtained. FinFET is a double-gate field-effect transistor (DG-FET) that was introduced commercially in 2012. Due to the vertical nature of FinFETs and, hence, weaker ability to dissipate heat, this problem is likely to get worse for FinFET circuits. Another technology rapidly gaining popularity is 3D IC integration. Unfortunately, the compact nature of a multidie 3D IC is likely to aggravate the temperature-during-test problem even further. Hence, before temperature-aware test methodologies can be developed, it is important to thermally analyze both FinFET and 3D circuits under test.

In this article, we present a methodology for thermal characterization of various test techniques, such as scan and built-in self-test (BIST), for FinFET and 3D ICs. FinFET thermal characterization makes use of a FinFET standard cell library that is characterized with the help of the University of Florida double-gate (UFDG) SPICE model. Thermal profiles for circuits under test are produced by ISAC2 from University of Colorado for FinFET circuits and HotSpot from University of Virginia for 3D ICs. Experimental results indicate that high temperatures result under BIST and much less often under scan, and that both power consumption and test application time should be reduced to lower the temperature of circuits under test, just reducing the power consumption is not enough.
Decoding dementia
Authors: Savage Neil
Published: February 2013

Computer models may help neurologists unlock the secrets of brain disorders, from Alzheimer's to cancer.
Funding successful research
Authors: Thorup Mikkel
Published: February 2013

A proposal for result-based funding for research projects.
The base resistance of non-displacement piles in sand. Part II: finite-element analyses
Authors: Tolooiyan Ali , Gavin Kenneth
Published: February 2013

A wide range of correlations have been proposed between cone penetration test end resistance, qc, and the ultimate end bearing pressure developed by bored piles. The qc value is typically related to the pile end bearing resistance at a normalised pile displacement equal to 10% of the pile diameter, qb0·1, through a correlation factor, α. While it is generally accepted that constant α factors can be applied for the design of displacement piles, a combination of field tests and finite-element analyses of bored piles in sand has resulted in a myriad of design approaches, some of which suggest that α varies with pile geometry, stress level and sand density. In this paper the results of finite-element analyses are presented which suggest that a constant α factor can be adopted for the design of deep foundations in sand.
The distributions, removals and estrogenic effects of selected endocrine disrupting chemicals in two drinking water factories in China
Authors: Zhang Hong-Chang , Xu Ting , Hu Xia-lin , Pang Wei-hai , Yin Da-Qiang
Published: February 2013

The distributions and effects of 31 selected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in two drinking water factories were analyzed in this study. The distributions of EDCs were analyzed by solid phase extraction (SPE) combined with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The concentrations of these EDCs were from lower than the LOD (limit of detection) to 23.13 ng L − 1 in the samples; most of them were lower than 1 ng L − 1. The highest concentration (23.13 ± 1.45 ng L − 1) was detected in the raw water. Twenty-six chemicals were found in the raw water and only five in the finished water of drinking water factory A, while 25 chemicals were detected in the raw water and two in the finished water of drinking water factory B. The results indicate that most of the EDCs can be removed by the water treatment process. In the advanced treatment process, the ozonation processes have the highest removal efficiency. Separate analyses in May and September show similar results. Apart from the chemical analysis, yeast strain transformed when the estrogen receptor α (ERα) gene was employed to test the estrogenic effects of the water samples. Due to the low concentrations of these EDCs, no significant estrogenic effects were found from the samples.
David Jones and the Self-Conscious Uses of Tradition
Authors: Potter Martin
Published: February 2013

This paper will explore the way that the poetry of David Jones, while generally recognised as being modernist, nevertheless promotes a continuation of the Western literary tradition (as opposed to more revolutionary strands of modernism), but does this while introducing a self-conscious understanding of the role and workings of tradition, an element lacking in pre-modern traditional literature. Other figures with a similar interest in the viability of a self-consciously understood practice of (literary or philosophical) tradition, in continuity with pre-modern tradition, but in modern conditions (Thomas Mann, John Henry Newman, Alasdair MacIntyre), will also be discussed.
Lichen Biota Of The Wolin Island (Poland)
Authors: Wieczorek Anetta , Łysko Andrzej
Published: February 2013

A list of 232 taxa of lichenized and lichenicolous fungi was recorded within the Wolin island, especially, the Wolin National Park. The findings comprise the results of field studies conducted between 1996 and 2008 and those published in earlier works. Some of them are rare in the Polish lowlands.
Plant communities of the class Charetea Fukarek ex Krausch 1964 in Ukraine: an overview
Authors: Iakushenko Dmytro , Borysova Olena
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the results of the first syntaxonomical survey of the submerged plant communities belonging to the class of Charetea Fukarek ex Krausch 1964 in Ukraine based on the interpretation of about 80 published and unpublished phytosociological relevEs. Fourteen associations of two alliances and one order are characterized briefly. The diversity of charophyte communities in Ukraine is also described in brief. A preliminary prodromus of charophyte communities in Ukraine is given. Associations of Charetum intermediae (Corillion 1957) Fija≥kowski 1960, Charetum rudis Dπmbska 1966, Nitelletumgracilis Corillion 1957 are indicated for Ukraine for the first time.
Genotypic Markers of Yersinia Enterocolitica O:9 Isolated from Cows Positive in Serological Examination for Bovine Brucellosis
Authors: Weiner Marcin , Szulowski Krzysztof , Iwaniak Wojciech , Złotnicka Jolanta
Published: February 2013

The aim of the study was to perform a molecular investigations for the presence of pathogenicity genotypic markers of Y.
enterocolitica O:9 isolated from cattle, in which initially positive serological reactions for brucellosis were observed. Almost all isolates were ail-, ystA- and myfA-positive (n=19). On the other hand, one isolate, which harboured plasmid encoding gene yadA was ail- , ystA- and myfA-negative. The plasmid encoding yadA marker was present in half of the isolates tested. None of the examined isolates was ystB-positive. The results of the investigations revealed that the Y. enterocolitica O:9 isolates, related to false positive serological results for brucellosis, may be also potentially pathogenic for humans, due to the presence of chromosomal and plasmidencoded molecular markers.
Impact of the Priobiotic on the Presence of Selected Virulence Genes and Drug-Resistance Among Campylobacter Coli Isolated from Piglets
Authors: Selwet Marek , Galbas Mariola
Published: February 2013

The investigations comprised 100 piglets of crossbreed Polish Landrace x Large White Polish breed. Faeces samples were collected on the 2nd d of piglets’ life (control). On the 5th d of life of the piglets, probiotic paste was applied and 7 d later, faecal samples were collected again. The material included 100 isolates of Campylobacter sp. obtained from healthy piglets. All isolates were assigned to the Campylobacter coli species. The occurrence of virulence genes was determined by the PCR method. Drugresistance of the obtained isolates was determined using diffusion tests and E-test strips. All isolates deriving from the control group piglets were found to contain the cadF gene responsible for adhesion, as well as, gene flaA influencing motility of the examined bacteria. In piglets fed diets supplemented with probiotics, the cadF gene occurred in 100% isolates and gene flaA - in 99% isolates. Campylobacter coli isolates obtained from piglets from the control group exhibited the highest resistance with respect to ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin. The similar results were recorded in the case of isolates obtained after the probiotic application. The majority of the isolates generated α type haemolysis (91%-92%). No significant differences were recorded in the capability of generating haemolysis between isolates obtained before probiotic administration and the isolates obtained after the application of the experimental probiotic.
Postwar creations of strangers and estrangement: Notes on the ways to recovery and normalization
Authors: Bańka Augustyn
Published: February 2013

This paper is an attempt at exploring the phenomenon of creation of strangers and estrangement as post-war trauma effects. It starts with an observation that post-war is a mental state manifesting itself in individuals as estrangement from themselves, environment, other people, and from the very meaning of life. The post-war trauma triggers a tendency for recovery and normalization of life, which, however, never ends. The paper focuses mainly on four aspects. Firstly, critical moments of the evolution of post-war periods in Europe are discussed, starting with the end of war until now. Secondly, the evolution of change in mental moral grammar in specific post-war periods is looked upon. Thirdly, paths to recovery and normalization through the creation of strangers and estrangement in consecutive, critical post-war periods are indicated. Lastly, this paper tries to present the paradoxes of all the periods of the post-war syndrome.
Digital dermoscopy analysis in the diagnosis of acral and nail melanocytic tumors / Digitalna dermoskopija u dijagnozi melanocitnih tumora noktiju i akralnih delova tela
Authors: Dobrosavljević Danijela D. , Brašanac Dimitrije , Lukić Silvana , Medenica Ljiljana
Published: February 2013

Digital dermoscopy (epiluminiscence microscopy) is a technology for in vivo imaging of the skin used for the differentiation of pigmented skin lesions. Melanocytic tumors and pigmentations of the nails and acral skin regions represent differential diagnostic problems that can hardly be evaluated with the naked eye, especially at an early stage. Two patients with a total of three very suspicious lesions underwent dermoscopy. Clinical diagnoses were as follows: subungual hemorrhage, plantar wart (previously treated as a plantar wart several times) and acral melanoma. Dermoscopy increased the suspicion to: subungual melanoma, acral amelanotic melanoma and acral nevus, respectively. Histologic examination has verified the following diagnoses: subungual melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma and acral junctional nevus. Dermoscopic examination of pigmented structures on the above-mentioned sites is a very useful adjunct in establishing accurate diagnosis that can help in differentiating benign from malignant lesions.
Selection of ore transport system for a metalliferous underground mine / Dobór systemu transportu rud w kopalni podziemnej rud metalu
Authors: Gonen Alper , Malli Tahir , Kose Halil
Published: February 2013

The conditions of increasing competition in today’s mining industry, deepening of mines and also decreasing ore reserve and quality parameters (grade, calorie, ppm, etc.) compels to reduce unit cost for maximum benefit. In this context, optimization of machinery and equipment in technical and economical sense is required in terms of economic mining. In underground mining, as ore transport operation significantly affects profitability, optimization of the system gains importance technically and economically. In this paper, the authors studied production capacities up to 1,000,000 ton/year and orebody depths up to 1,000 m according to different haulage systems; conventional shaft hoisting, declined mine truck haulage and flexowell vertical belt applications. In model study, unit transport costs of each alternative depending on the production capacity and mine depth have been calculated.
Analiza mechaniki procesu rozdrabniania surowców mineralnych w kruszarkach i wysokociśnieniowych prasach walcowych
Authors: Bromowicz Jan , Figarska-Warchoł Beata
Published: February 2013

Streszczenie

W artykule przeanalizowano opisy procesu rozdrabniania przy użyciu różnych teorii. Scharakteryzowano pokrótce teorię stanów granicznych, teorię sprężystości oraz teorię plastyczności dla wyjaśnienia niektórych efektów obserwowanych w procesie rozdrabniania materiałów kruchych. Bardziej szczegółowo opisano zja­wiska występujące przy rozdrabnianiu w wysokociśnieniowych prasach walcowych, przeanalizowano wpływ wybranych czynników na wyniki rozdrabniania. Ocenę przydatności różnych hipotez do interpretacji procesu rozdrabniania w wysokociśnieniowych prasach walcowych przeprowadzono na podstawie badań ekspery­mentalnych.

Przedstawiono wyniki prób ściskania wapienia w warunkach podobnych do istniejących przy rozdrabnia­niu w prasach walcowych. Kruszywo wapienne umieszczone w stalowym cylindrze poddawano ściskaniu poprzez stempel prasy hydraulicznej. Ściskano próbki o różnym uziarnieniu kruszywa i przy różnej wielkości ciśnienia. Oprócz wpływu wielkości ciśnienia prasowania stwierdzono wpływ uziarnienia nadawy na efekt rozdrabniania. Porównanie otrzymanych wyników wskazuje na duże możliwości regulacji parametrów pracy pras walcowych.
Możliwości sejsmicznej identyfikacji stref akumulacji gazu w utworach węglanowych cechsztynu monokliny przedsudeckiej
Authors: Dec Jerzy , Pietsch Kaja
Published: February 2013

Streszczenie

Na obszarze monokliny przedsudeckiej złoża gazu występują w utworach węglanowych cyklotemów PZ1 (w wapieniu podstawowym Cal) oraz PZ2 (w dolomicie głównym Ca2). Lokalizacja złóż jest ściśle związana ze strefami sedymentacji węglanów. Złoża występują przede wszystkim w obrębie stref barierowych oraz stref podnóża platform węglanowych. Wyrzut do chodnika rozdrobnionego materiału skalnego w KGHM ZG Rudna, który miał miejsce w 2009 r. pokazał, że gaz może występować również w strefie basenowej Cal, z którą związane jest złoże miedzi.

Podstawową metodą badawczą wykorzystywaną do lokalizacji złóż węglowodorów są powierzchniowe badania sejsmiczne 2D i 3D. Ich sukcesy poszukiwawcze wynikają przede wszystkim z faktu zmniejszania się prędkości rozchodzenia się fal P oraz gęstości objętościowej pod wpływem nasycenia przestrzeni porowej gazem. Na skutek tego w rejestrowanym zapisie sejsmicznym widoczne są strefy zapisu anomalnego. Ich powiązanie ze złożami gazu, czyli złożowa interpretacja danych sejsmicznych, oparta jest na analizie DHI (Direct Hydrocarbon Indicator).

W prezentowanej pracy przedstawiono i porównano sejsmiczne odwzorowanie nasycenia gazem „pułapek” zlokalizowanych w typowej barierze węglanowej (złoże Kościan w Cal), w strefie podnóża platformy węglanowej (złoże Lubiatów w Ca2) oraz porowatej/szczelinowatej strefie dolomitu Cal w rejonie wyrzutu gazu, który miał miejsce w KGHM ZG Rudna.

Dla każdej ze stref opracowano, bazując na rejestrowanych danych geofizyki otworowej i modelowaniach 1D (sejsmogramy syntetyczne), kryteria identyfikacji stref nasyconych gazem.

Podstawowym kryterium wskazującym na nasycenie (1) bariery Kościan (Cal) jest zmiana fazy refleksu (phase change) wiązanego ze spągiem Cal przy przejściu ze strefy basenowej (refleks ujemny) do strefy barierowej (refleks dodatni), (2) złoża Lubiatów, zlokalizowanego w obszarze podnóża platformy jest występowanie w stropie strefy nasyconej silnego refleksu ujemnego (bright spot), (3) porowatej i szczelinowej strefy głębokowodnej w ZG Rudna - występowanie w spągu dolomitów Cal refleksu o amplitudzie zbliżonej do zera.

Opracowane kryteria są kryteriami lokalnymi, zbyt duża jest bowiem zmienność budowy geologicznej w różnych częściach basenu cechsztyńskiego.
Scapular Muscle Exercises Following Neck Dissection Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer: A Comparative Electromyographic Study
Authors: McGarvey Aoife C. , Osmotherly Peter Grant , Hoffman Gary R. , Chiarelli Pauline E.
Published: February 2013

Background

Shoulder pain and dysfunction can occur following neck dissection surgery for cancer. These conditions often are due to accessory nerve injury. Such an injury leads to trapezius muscle weakness, which, in turn, alters scapular biomechanics.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess which strengthening exercises incur the highest dynamic activity of affected trapezius and accessory scapular muscles in patients with accessory nerve dysfunction compared with their unaffected side.

Design

A comparative design was utilized for this study.

Methods

The study was conducted in a physical therapy department. Ten participants who had undergone neck dissection surgery for cancer and whose operated side demonstrated clinical signs of accessory nerve injury were recruited. Surface electromyographic activity of the upper trapezius, middle trapezius, rhomboid major, and serratus anterior muscles on the affected side was compared dynamically with that of the unaffected side during 7 scapular strengthening exercises.

Results

Electromyographic activity of the upper and middle trapezius muscles of the affected side was lower than that of the unaffected side. The neck dissection side affected by surgery demonstrated higher levels of upper and middle trapezius muscle activity during exercises involving overhead movement. The rhomboid and serratus anterior muscles of the affected side demonstrated higher levels of activity compared with the unaffected side.

Limitations

Exercises were repeated 3 times on one occasion. Muscle activation under conditions of increased exercise dosage should be inferred with caution.

Conclusions

Overhead exercises are associated with higher levels of trapezius muscle activity in patients with accessory nerve injury following neck dissection surgery. However, pain and correct scapular form must be carefully monitored in this patient group during exercises. Rhomboid and serratus anterior accessory muscles may have a compensatory role, and this role should be considered during rehabilitation.
Hierarchical Fibers with a Negative Poisson’s Ratio for Tougher Composites
Authors: Sun Yongtao , Pugno Nicola
Published: February 2013

In this paper, a new kind of hierarchical tube with a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) is proposed. The first level tube is constructed by rolling up an auxetic hexagonal honeycomb. Then, the second level tube is produced by substituting the arm of the auxetic sheet with the first level tube and rolling it up. The Nth ( ) level tube can be built recursively. Based on the Euler beam theory, the equivalent elastic parameters of the NPR hierarchical tubes under small deformations are derived. Under longitudinal axial tension, instead of shrinking, all levels of the NPR hierarchical tubes expand in the transverse direction. Using these kinds of auxetic tubes as reinforced fibers in composite materials would result in a higher resistance to fiber pullout. Thus, this paper provides a new strategy for the design of fiber reinforced hierarchical bio-inspired composites with a superior pull-out mechanism, strength and toughness. An application with super carbon nanotubes concludes the paper.
Low weight as an independent risk factor for adverse events during cardiac catheterization of infants
Authors: Backes Carl H. , Cua Clifford , Kreutzer Jacqueline , Armsby Laurie , El‐Said Howaida , Moore John W. , Gauvreau Kimberlee , Bergersen Lisa , Holzer Ralf J.
Published: February 2013

Background

Studies have documented the importance of procedure type and hemodynamic variables on the incidence of procedure related adverse events (AE) after cardiac catheterization. However, little is known about the impact of low weight on the incidence and severity of AE. Methods: Data were prospectively collected using a multicenter registry (C3PO). Infants <1 year were divided into four weight categories: <2 kg, 2–3 kg, 3–5 kg, ≥5 kg. AE severity was classified as level 1–5 (none, minor, moderate, major, death).

Results

Eight centers submitted details on 3,679 cases (34% diagnostic) performed in infants <1 year from 2/07 to 6/10: <2 kg: 57 (1.5%), 2–3 kg: 403 (11%), 3–5 kg: 1,527 (41.5%), ≥5 kg: 1,692 (46%). AE occurred in 20% of cases (<2 kg: 28%, 2–3 kg: 25%, 3–5 kg: 23%, ≥5 kg: 16%) with 41% of all AE being level 3–5 AE. Death occurred more frequently in the <2 kg group (12%), 71% of which were interventional cases. The case‐related mortality in all other weight groups was <1%. By multivariable analysis, weight <2 kg, 2–3 kg, and 3–5 kg were independent risk factors for high severity (level 3–5) AE (<2 kg: OR 2, 95%CI 1.1–3.6; 2–3 kg: OR 1.4, 95%CI 1–1.8; 3–5 kg: OR 1.3, 95%CI 1.1–1.5), with similar findings for all AE. Blood transfusions were more common in lower weight categories (<2 kg: 42%, 2–3 kg: 29%, 3–5 kg: 25%, ≥5 kg: 15%, p<0.001). Conclusions: The risk of AE during cardiac catheterization of infants increases with lower weight. Infants who weigh less than 2 kg have a significantly higher risk of adverse events (most notably death) even after correcting for hemodynamic vulnerability and procedure type risk group. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Zero Thermal Expansion in K0.46Co1.27 [Fe(CN)6]·5.5H2O.
Authors: Liu Min , Xu Ming‐Xiang
Published: February 2013

The title compound is synthesized from solutions of K3[Fe(CN)6], KNO3, and Co(NO3)2 (5 h) and its thermal expansion behavior is characterized by powder XRD.