bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vivienda unifamiliar, T. Gervais
Authors: Loveft Wendell H.
Published: April 2016

Esta casa, de curiosa fisonomía y singular mimetismo paisajístico, está emplazada al pie de las colinas Cascada, al este de Seattle, en el Estado de Washington.
Historia del puente en España
Authors: Fernández Casado Carlos
Published: April 2016

Volvemos a decir que es nuestro propósito estudiar, en este artículo y otros que seguirán, los puentes romanos de que tenemos noticia. Aunque la meta ideal es que sean todos los puentes romanos, estamos forzados a errar, por defecto y por exceso, y al resultado será aplicable aquello de que «ni están todos los que son, ni son todos los que están». Para que el acierto fuera máximo se precisaría la aportación de todas las personas que tengan conocimiento del tema. Sirvan estas líneas de invitación y, al mismo tiempo, de agradecimiento anticipado a su ayuda, tan necesaria para centrar la cuestión en su más y en su menos.
Nueva biblioteca pública, en Seattle
Authors: Bindon L W. , Wright J. L. , Decker, Christenson y Kitchen Arquitectos
Published: April 2016

El edificio está construido en un solar en pendientes y ocupa una manzana entera situada entre la Cuarta y Quinta Avenida en la parte baja de la ciudad de Seattle. El antiguo edificio construido en 1914 fue reconstruido y los servicios internos fueron modificados e instalados en el nuevo edificio. Como se indica en los planos, las tres plantas fundamentales de que consta el edificio están conectadas entre sí por medio de una escalera mecánica, a la que se llega directamente desde las dos entradas principales situadas en las dos calles anteriormente mencionadas, al este y al oeste, respectivamente, del edificio. Esta disposición deja grandes espacios abiertos aprovechables para salas de lectura, con circulación simple y directa entre y a través de las estanterías que contienen los más modernos tratados e ideas de filosofía. Las antes mencionadas librerías del antiguo edificio fueron sustituidas por dos plantas de nuevas estanterías situadas debajo de los tres pisos fundamentales, en los que se guarda la suficiente cantidad de libros para cubrir el servicio de las salas de lectura.
Edificio de viviendas, en Lausanne
Authors: Adatte Roger , Pegurri Jean
Published: April 2016

Este edificio está situado en el Camino del Calvario. Se trata de una construcción inmueble, dividida en dos partes mediante un muro mediano. La primera parte se compone de un sótano, planta baja y siete pisos. La segunda parte consta de un sótano, un entre-suelo parcialmente dividido en apartamentos, planta baja y siete pisos.
Casa en Brabrand. Dinamarca
Authors: Friis Knud , Nielsen E. M.
Published: April 2016

Esta casa de campo, construida para el propio Friis, tiene una fisonomía y una composición volumétrica de admirable sencillez, y en su diseño se ha jugado solamente con masas y zonas, ciegas o diáfanas, en rudo contraste. Los cuatro alzados presentan características iguales, pero completamente opuestas, según se las mire. La planta baja tiene luces a este y oeste, fundamentalmente, mientras que la planta superior orienta las zonas grandes de cristal a norte y sur; con esto se ha tratado de prestar atención particular a los cuatro puntos cardinales, de modo que cada parte de la casa tenga una especial significación con el paisaje correspondiente: el patio cerrado, la zona de arbolado más próxima o el panorama general. Se ha dedicado un especial cuidado a destacar el contraste entre la afinidad casa-patio íntimo y su afinidad respecto del espacio y paisaje abierto.
Paso superior en Hammersmith
Authors: Maunsell G.
Published: April 2016

El Ayuntamiento de Londres (Inglaterra) ha puesto en servicio una segunda calzada sobre la ya existente en una zona amplia donde el tráfico creaba frecuentes congestiones. Esta segunda calzada se apoya en soportes que parten de la ya existente. La estructura fue estudiada y proyectada por el gabinete técnico G. Maunsell and Partners, quien mantuvo un contacto constante con los Servicios municipales de pavimentaciones.
Edificios industriales. Wiesbaden
Authors: Ohlig R.
Published: April 2016

La fábrica de cemento Dyckerhoff, de Wiesbaden-Amoneburg, decidió la construcción de dos edificios industriales con objeto de dar cabida a las instalaciones necesarias para la fabricación de cemento Portland blanco como parte suplementaria a la fábrica ya existente. En uno de estos edificios se han instalado cinco molinos de cemento en dos naves, y aún queda espacio para la instalación de otros dos. Este edificio tiene en planta 50 x 28 m. El otro edificio, destinado al almacenamiento de clinker, es de 29 x 50 m en planta. El profesor E. Neufert, de la Asociación alemana de Arquitectos, que se encargó de la parte artística, llegó a la solución de cubrir ambos edificios con una lámina formando módulos cilíndricos y de hormigón armado. El cuerpo de los edificios es de arquitectura cúbica y soportes prismáticos.
Estación de servicio
Authors: Bertrand G. , Parent C.
Published: April 2016

Esta edificación, destinada a estación de servicio, está al lado de una vía de abundante circulación y forma parte de un Centro Comercial importante de la Châtaigneraie, en la región parisina.
Edificio Shell en Caracas
Authors: Carbonell D. , Salvador Díaz M. , Vaamonde J. L.
Published: April 2016

La necesidad imperiosa de agrupar todo el sistema administrativo de una potente empresa como la Shell, ha aconsejado la construcción de un edificio especialmente dedicado a esta función. Por regla general, esta firma prefiere alquilar los edificios; en este caso, ha sido así también, aunque se ha edificado exclusivamente con este fin y dedicado especialmente a la Shell, la cual ocupa trece de sus dieciséis plantas.
Casa de la Cultura en Ciudad Real
Authors: Fisac Miguel
Published: April 2016

La arquitectura de Fisac se caracteriza, entre otras destacadas cualidades, por la adaptación al lugar de emplazamiento, por la pureza de líneas, por la sobriedad y jugosidad de colores y por la utilización de materiales característicos y típicos de la región en que se sitúan sus edificios.
Puente sobre el lago Maracaibo. Alcance y contenido del proyecto de ejecución
Authors: Sbalzarini L.
Published: April 2016

En el número 91 de Informes de la Construcción dimos cuenta del anteproyecto redactado por el notable ingeniero Ricardo Morandi. En números sucesivos, y dado el interés particular de la obra, daremos de ella tres trabajos: uno referente al paso de anteproyecto a proyecto de ejecución, otro dedicado a la disposición de elementos y un tercero que trata de su terminación.
Pista de patinaje, en Ginebra
Authors: Cingria A. , Maurice F. , Duret J. , Tremblet P.
Published: April 2016

La pista cubierta de patinaje de Vernets es uno de los edificios más importantes del futuro complejo deportivo municipal de Ginebra, que comprenderá, además, una pista para patinar al aire libre y una piscina cubierta.
Club S. Martín
Authors: Sharon Arieh , Idelson Benjamin
Published: April 2016

Dentro del programa desarrollado para el Instituto Científico Weizmann, realizado en la pequeña ciudad israelita de Rehovoth, se encuentra este Club, destinado al recreo y descanso de los sabios y profesores que realizan sus investigaciones en dicho Centro. El edificio dispone también de algunas habitaciones para alojar a profesores extranjeros invitados.
Auditorio Aichi, en Nagoya
Authors: Kosaka Hideo , Hirokawa Seizaburo
Published: April 2016

El auditorio de Aichi es bello ejemplo de arquitectura moderna, magníficamente resuelto en su aspecto exterior y funcionalmente adaptado en su tratamiento interior: tanto la forma como los materiales empleados han sido sabiamente conjuntados para el logro de una obra perfecta, merced al cuidado extraordinario con que se han proyectado y como consecuencia de profundos estudios y cálculos acústicos que han conducido a la solución adoptada.
Instituto de la Commonwealth
Authors: Matthew Robert , Johnson-Marshall Partners , Harris J. D. , Harris A. J.
Published: April 2016

Actualmente se está construyendo en Londres (Inglaterra) el edificio para el Instituto Commonwealth. Este Instituto, cuyo objeto es el de abrir una exposición permanente de los distintos países que constituyen la Commonwealth, constará no sólo de dicha exposición, sino de un cuerpo de edificio anexo para la Administración, otro para Museo de pinturas y una sala para cine.
Hangar en el aeropuerto de Frankfur-am-Main
Authors: Apel y Beckert Arquitectos
Published: April 2016

Los proyectistas del hangar de Frankfur-am-Main (Alemania) se aprovecharon de las experiencias americanas a este respecto. Se eligió un tipo de hangar que cuenta con un cuerpo central de hormigón armado, de 22 m de ancho, 10 m de altura (3 plantas) y 171 m de longitud. Al sur y norte se forman naves, de 55 X 156 m en planta, para albergue de los aviones. Bajo la parte central se hallan los sótanos para el aprovisionamiento y depósitos.
Application of Complexity Theory in Representation of the City
Authors: Piscitelli Manuela
Published: April 2016

The objective of this chapter is to show how chaos and complexity theory can be applied to understanding of the dynamics of a city. At first, the changes in the theoretical and practical knowledge that occurred in contemporary philosophical and scientific thought from the end of the nineteenth century, which led to the formulation of the chaos and complexity theory are discussed. The new vision of the world emerging from chaos and complexity theory allows a rapprochement between the two complementary ways of analysis and action: the analytical method, born from the Cartesian method, and the systemic approach, derived from cybernetics and systems theory. Then the characteristics of a complex system are analyzed by referring to the definitions of the main exponents of the discipline, in order to understand if a city can be identified as a complex system. A review of the main theories about complexity of the city is included in order to demonstrate that a city can be considered as a “system” defined by the elements (the various activities and urban functions) and from the interactions and relations between its various components (tangible and intangible communications) that produces hardly detectable effects on all parts of the city. Finally, the systems currently used for the description and the representation of components and relationships of a city intended as a complex system are presented.
Different Sides of a Reality
Authors: Erçetin Şefika Şule , Güngör Halime , Açıkalın Şuay Nilhan
Published: April 2016

This study's aim is to initiate a discussion of the other side of stigma: that is positive stigma. In this chapter, we discuss different sides of the stigma phenomenon with three major concepts; intelligence quotient, chaos theory, quantum theory with the last unverified part of the Standard Model of particle physics- Higgs Boson and also known as the God Particle. Lastly, we focus on positive stigma in terms of leadership as a case of future trends for this discussion. This discussion is expected to trigger off a high level of academic and research interest in the field of stigma.
Understanding Entrepreneurship through Chaos and Complexity Perspectives
Authors: Aloulou Wassim J.
Published: April 2016

This chapter aims to cover entrepreneurship as an emergent field of scholarly inquiry in the social sciences. Four different dominant paradigms are developed in this research field. The chapter shows that, in the last two decades, several scholars adopted the chaos and complexity sciences as important perspectives in the social sciences and especially in management sciences, small business and entrepreneurship. Then, the chapter aims also to introduce the pioneering contributions of theses scholars intending to understand entrepreneurship (its conditions, properties and processes of emergence) through the chaos and complexity theories and produce valuable knowledge in this field. And finally, the chapter presents some discussions and implication for future entrepreneurship research perspectives related to three research mainstreams: social, strategic entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial learning. In conclusion, the chapter invites researchers to benefit from the chaos and complexity perspectives in order not to miss opportunity to enrich their theory building in entrepreneurship research.
Relationship among Influencing Factors of Tourism Infrastructure
Authors: Ray Nilanjan , Das Dillip Kumar
Published: April 2016

The primary objectives of this study includes to identify the growth, development of tourism in the state of West Bengal, to study the tourism factors which affect the tourists' satisfaction of West Bengal in general and Kamarpukur in particular, to study the role played by the Government, Department of Tourism, analyze future requirement of tourism infrastructure of Kamarpukur as an important tourism destination in Indian Scenario. For the fulfillment of the basic objectives, data for the study were collected through field survey. The sources of secondary data collected were legal documents, official statistics, reports, publications including data from district information centre. In the originality point of view this study is a sincere attempt to disseminate the required infrastructural framework at Kamarpukur and also encounter the strategies for development of sustainable rural tourism at this destination.
Why Is ISIS so Psychologically Attractive?
Authors: Neo Loo Seng , Shi Priscilla , Dillon Leevia , Tan Jethro , Wang Yingmin , Gomes Danielle
Published: April 2016

Since the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) became prominent after the release of beheading videos of its prisoners, many have been confused over how to describe this development in relation to the way the Internet is exploited by violent extremists. While the element of surprise and horror lingered on the minds of many observers, a more pressing question facing the law enforcement is: how does ISIS attract foreign fighters using such videos and online propaganda? As countries around the globe grapple with the security threat posed by their nationals travelling to join ISIS, the need to be au fait with the appeal of ISIS and its ability to use the Internet to recruit new members and sympathisers becomes even more apparent. This chapter uses a behavioural sciences lens to explicate how individual and organisational motivational factors may contribute to the overall appeal of joining ISIS.
An Internet-Mediated Pathway for Online Radicalisation
Authors: Neo Loo Seng
Published: April 2016

This chapter proposes an Internet-mediated radicalisation model, RECRO. It consists of five phases: (1) the Reflection phase details the triggers, needs, and vulnerabilities that an individual may have which increase one's receptiveness towards alternative belief systems; (2) the Exploration phase details the period where the individual begins making sense of the information put forth by violent extremists; (3) the Connection phase details the influence of like-minded individuals and the online community on the individual's new worldview; (4) the Resolution phase details the period during which the individual gains the momentum to translate one's radical beliefs into action; and finally (5) the Operational phase details the period during which the individual is ready to commit violence to further one's radical objectives. This model provides a basis for understanding and informing judgements about an individual's level of involvement, and paves the way for future empirical work.
What We Know and What Else We Need to Do to Address the Problem of Violent Extremism Online
Authors: Khader Majeed
Published: April 2016

This concluding chapter is an attempt made to summarise and analyse the chapters provided by the various authors in this book. The analysis used in this chapter is based on a public health prevention model created by Quick, Quick, Nelson, and Hurrell (1997). The value of this approach is the systemic prevention angle that it undertakes to examine problems and solutions.
Modeling Place
Authors: Papadopoulos Homer
Published: April 2016

Recent research has shown how new mobile networked environments have added new complexity to the notion of “place”, now considered as an important concept in the context of technology adoption and the usage of mobile technologies, applications and services. The aim of this paper is to propose a new framework to gain insight into the usage behaviour of mobile data services and applications. A model of place was generated, adopting the humanistic geographical perspective as represented by the four “layers of place” introduced by Tuan's theory, which can be served as a sensitizing device in order to interpret and analyse the collected data. The model has been applied on an observational field study which tried to explore, understand and highlight the role of place in the decision of the people to use mobile data services. The model assisted researchers to show that the end users' decision to start using mobile data services has been influenced and triggered by their experience of place. This highlights the value of the proposed new framework of understanding users' interaction with their surrounding environment when adopting new technologies and using mobile data services.
The Relationship between Service Quality Dimensions, Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Technology based Self Service Banking
Authors: Sindwani Rajiv , Goel Manisha
Published: April 2016

The technology based self service banking (TBSSB) refers to automated banking services that customer avail without interaction with bank employees. This paper investigates the relationship between dimensions of TBSSB service quality, customer satisfaction and loyalty. The paper also examines the mediating role of customer satisfaction in the relationship. The dimensions are identified and confirmed by conducting EFA and CFA respectively using SPSS 16.0 and AMOS 20.0. Dimensions of TBSSB SQ are identified as Convenience, Reliability & Security, Responsiveness and Personalization. AMOS 20.0 is used to investigate the relationship between dimensions using SEM. It is found that Convenience and personalization have significant effect on customer satisfaction, and personalization and customer satisfaction have significant effect on loyalty. Customer satisfaction is also confirmed as a mediating factor. This study may help bank managers to investigate the customers' quality perceptions about TBSSB services and enlighten banks about the aspects of services to be focused.
High Performance Teams
Authors: Dominguez Caroline , Moura Isabel C. , Varajão João
Published: April 2016

Effective team management is one of the key factors that allow companies to tackle the challenges of today's demanding business environment. Although high-performing teams have been studied for some time, very little has been written on them from the construction industry's perspective. Based on the conclusions of previous work and on a project involving 44 professionals of seven teams, this exploratory case study intends to evaluate if there is a gap between what team members and leaders perceive as being (a) the most important features for managing teams into high performance and (b) the features that are present in their teams. The present study shows that, although teams under investigation had some high-performing features at the leadership dimension, there is room for improvement, in particular when it comes to empowering team members, involving them in planning the work, and creating proper reward systems.
Measuring the Satisfaction Levels of Mobile Financial Services Users in Bangladesh
Authors: Hai Md Abdul , Rahman Mohammad Masudur
Published: April 2016

Bangladesh enjoys fast growing mobile financial services (MFS) outlook that covers only 15% of the total population which indicates an ample opportunity yet to be tapped. This study aims to examine the satisfaction levels of mobile financial services users under different dimensions using SERVQUAL instrument. A self-administered questionnaire was used to survey in Dhaka with a sample of 201 respondents of various strata and data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and ANOVA. The findings reveal that the overall satisfaction level of the users is somewhat satisfactory. The results also show that there are significant differences in satisfaction levels among the MFS user groups in terms of service providers' commitment, speed and sincerity and these differences are insignificant in terms of service users' income and convenience. The study suggests that the services need to be more customized and developed to improve the levels of satisfaction of the users.
An Empirical Study on Predicting User Acceptance of Online Apparel Shopping in Iran
Authors: Pahlavanyali Nariman , Momeni Seyyed Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2016

E-commerce is an emerging market and a developing research field in Iran. The main factors influencing the Iranian consumer's intention towards shopping apparels online are of utmost importance, which the authors are aimed to study. The framework developed for accomplishing this task is created combining constructs of Trust and Perceived Risk with the Technology Acceptance Model which tries to demonstrate the relationship between those two constructs and the subcomponents of TAM including Attitude, Perceived Usefulness, and Perceived Ease of Use and the strengths of these relationships. The findings of this study illustrate the importance of Trust which is proved to have significant direct relationship with Intention and Perceived Risk which has both direct and indirect relationships with Intention. The impact of Perceived Risk is even more critical once the cultural dimension of the country put into account. It is concluded that minimizing the risk of online shopping along with maximizing the trust in this purchasing method plays a main role in adoption of online shopping.
A Freehand 3D Ultrasound Imaging System using Open-Source Software Tools with Improved Edge-Preserving Interpolation
Authors: Daoud Mohammad I. , Alshalalfah Abdel-Latif , Awwad Falah , Al-Najar Mahasen
Published: April 2016

Ultrasound imaging is widely employed in various medical procedures. Most ultrasound procedures are performed with conventional 2D ultrasound systems, but visualizing the 3D anatomy using 2D ultrasound images is often challenging. This paper describes the use of open-source software tools to develop a freehand system for synthesizing high-quality 3D ultrasound volumes using electromagnetic tracking. In the proposed system, the spatial transformation between the 2D ultrasound images and the electromagnetic sensor attached to the ultrasound transducer was performed using an accurate spatial calibration method. A new interpolation method, called the edge-preserving distance-weighted (EPDW), is employed to reconstruct the 3D ultrasound volumes. The performance of the system is evaluated by performing a set of phantom experiments. The results showed that the reconstructed 3D ultrasound volumes have sub-millimeter accuracy. Moreover, the ultrasound volumes synthesized using the EPDW method demonstrated improved edge preservation compared with a previous interpolation method.
EEG Analysis of Imagined Speech
Authors: Iqbal Sadaf , Muhammed Shanir P.P.  , Khan Yusuf Uzzaman , Farooq Omar
Published: April 2016

Scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) is one of the most commonly used methods to acquire EEG data for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Worldwide a large number of people suffer from disabilities which impair normal communication. Communication BCIs are an excellent tool which helps the affected patients communicate with others. In this paper scalp EEG data is analysed to discriminate between the imagined vowel sounds /a/, /u/ and no action or rest as control state. Mean absolute deviation (MAD) and Arithmetic mean are used as features to classify data into one of the classes /a/, /u/ or rest. With high classification accuracies of 87.5-100% for two class problem and 78.33-96.67% for three class problem that have been obtained in this work, this algorithm can be used in communication BCIs, to develop speech prosthesis and in synthetic telepathy systems.
Analysis of Gait Flow Image and Gait Gaussian Image Using Extension Neural Network for Gait Recognition
Authors: Arora Parul , Srivastava Smriti , Singhal Shivank
Published: April 2016

This paper proposes a new technique to recognize human gait by combining model free feature extraction approaches and a classifier. Gait flow image (GFI) and gait Gaussian image (GGI) are the two feature extraction techniques used in combination with ENN. GFI is a gait period based technique, uses optical flow features. So it directly focuses on dynamic part of human gait. GGI is another gait period based technique, computed by applying Gaussian membership function on human silhouettes. Next, ENN has been used as a classifier which combines the extension theory and neural networks. All the study has been done on CASIA-A and OU-ISIR treadmill B databases. The results derived using ENN are compared with SVM (support vector machines) and NN (Nearest neighbor) classifiers. ENN proved to give good accuracy and less iteration as compared to other traditional methods.
The Structure and Properties Formation of the NiTi Shape Memory Rods after Hot Rotary Forging
Authors: Lekston Zdzisław , Zubko Maciej , Lelątko Józef , Stróż Danuta , Goryczka Tomasz , Wierzchoń Tadeusz , Sieniawski Jan , Dybich Jerzy
Published: April 2016

Shape memory effects, the course and characteristic temperatures of phase transitions and mechanical properties and surface properties of NiTi alloys strongly depend on the chemical composition, the production process used and the plastic working and thermomechanical treatment as well as surface treatment. The test alloy was obtained by vacuum metallurgy by melting the components in a graphite crucible and casting into a graphite ingot mould. In order to obtain the rods in the process of hot plastic working, hot forging was applied using a smith hammer and rotary hot forging on a swaging machine. The resulting rods were subjected to an appropriate heat treatment and thermo mechanical treatment to obtain, at room temperature, a parent phase structure B2.The paper presents the results of the research of NiTi rods after hot rotary forging. The phase composition of the samples of the tested alloy after different heat treatments were determined by X-ray powder diffraction technique. It was found that at room temperature, depending upon the processing the samples had a structure parent phase with a small amount of martensite. The courses of phase transitions and the changes of the temperature characteristic were determined on the basis of the recorded DSC curves. It was found that the test rate after aging in the temperature range of 400-500 °C transitions take place involving the rhombohedral R phase. The temperature ranges of shape recovery of samples after various heat treatments were determined by recording the recovery of the shape during heating, in tests performed according to the standard ASTM 2082-06.
An Influence of Frictional Model on Temperature Distribution during a Friction Spot Stir Welding Process of Titanium Grade 2
Authors: Lacki Piotr , Kucharczyk Zygmunt , Walasek Tomasz
Published: April 2016

In the paper, the influence of friction on temperature distribution in the friction spot stir welding process of titanium grade 2 is analysed. It is assumed that the friction coefficient may be a function of temperature or the relative speed of the contact areas. The finite element method is used in the numerical calculations. Temperature distributions and temperature versus time for the analysed friction coefficients are presented. The results also show that applying a proper frictional model is very essential for the sake of heat generation during friction stir welding.
Lubricants Based on Vegetable Oils as Effective Lubricating Agents in Sheet-Titanium Forming
Authors: Adamus Janina , Dyja Katarzyna , Więckowski Wojciech
Published: April 2016

Sheet metal forming processes allow for production of lightweight and durable goods. For this reason, drawing operations have been widely used across the automotive, aviation and construction industries and for production of various components of machines. Despite the popularity of deep-drawing steel sheet metal, non-ferrous materials, such as aluminium, magnesium and titanium are also used for such purposes. Titanium materials seem to be particularly attractive due to a beneficial ratio of strength to density and excellent corrosion resistance in the most of technological environments. However, titanium and its alloys belong to a group of materials with low tribological properties and tendencies for galling and build-up of layers of the deformed material on the tool surface. Therefore, this study will discuss the results of the investigations concerning selection of technological lubricants based on vegetable oils used for the operation of forming of sheet metal made of commercially pure titanium (Grade 2). The focus of the experiment is on lubricants based on vegetable oils i.e. rapeseed oil, sunflower oil and olive oil. The main lubricating additive was boric acid and stearic acid. The study presents the results of the determination of friction coefficient during a strip drawing test.
Analysis of Heat Transfer through PVC Window Profile Reinforced with Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: Lacki Piotr , Różycka Judyta , Rogoziński Marcin
Published: April 2016

This requires the use of additional reinforcement in order to prevent excessive or permanent deformation of PVC windows. In the paper particular attention was devoted to space located in a corrosive environment exposed to chemical agents. For this purpose, proposed to change the previously used steel profiles reinforcements made of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy corrosion-resistant in the air, at sea and many types of industrial atmosphere. Analysis of the thermal insulation properties of PVC windows with additional reinforcement of profile Ti6Al4V titanium alloy was performed. PVC window set in a layer of thermal insulation was analyzed. Research was conducted using Finite Element Analysis. Numerical models and thermal calculations were made in the program ADINA, assuming appropriate material parameters. The constant internal temperature of 20 ̊ and an outer-20 ̊ was assumed. The course of temperature distribution in baffle in time 24 hours and graphs of characteristic points was obtained. The time of in which followed the steady flow of heat, as well as the course of isotherm of characteristic temperature in the baffle was determined. On the basis of numerical analysis obtained vector distribution of heat flux q [W/m2] and was determined heat transfer coefficients U [W/m2K] for the whole window with titanium reinforcement . All results were compared with the model of PVC windows reinforced with steel profile.
Application of Titanium Dioxide in Cement and Concrete Technology
Authors: Pietrzak Alina , Adamus Janina , Langier Bogdan
Published: April 2016

Public awareness of the need to protect the environment deepens and expands to new areas of life, including new technologies used in civil engineering. These technologies include, among others, the technology of photocatalytic concrete products, which are capable of purifying air. The use of this type of technology is closely linked with the campaign for Sustainable Development. The article discusses the photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide and its use in various industries. The test results of TioCem® CEM II/A-S 42.5 cement and Portland CEM I 42.5 cement based on experiments performed with bars made of standardized mortar are presented.
Microstructure and Interconnections Characteristics of Titanium Foam
Authors: Pałka Krzysztof , Adamek Grzegorz , Jakubowicz Jarosław
Published: April 2016

Titanium foams are widely used as biomaterials and potentially as a twin skinned, sandwich, structures for aerospace structures, filter or a catalyst or catalysts carrier for chemical reactions. The porosity is particularly important for tissues ingrowth and vascularity. Open porosity is essential in the case of flow-on machines. The distribution and size of pores is significant to achieve a uniform material effort and ensure to receive an appropriate hydraulic properties.The aim of this study was to determine the effect of titanium particle size and the amount of porogen on the microstructure and the size of pore interconnections in titanium foams made using saccharose as the space holder material.The paper characterizes titanium foam, made from the Grade 1 Ti powders (Alfa Aesar) with a particle sizes of 0.150 mm and 0.044 mm (separately) and spherical particles of saccharose (Pfeifer & Langen) having an average size of 0.7 ÷ 0.9 mm, as a porogen. There was prepared a mixture of powders of the proposed porosity of 50, 60 and 70%. Summarizing 6 mixtures were prepared. After sintering there were received specimens having a diameter of 8 mm and a height of 5 mm. Microstructure analysis was performed using the microtomography Skyscan 1172 (Bruker microCT) and the CTAn software (Bruker microCT).The results indicate the uniform pore distribution and size of the interconnections allowing high permeability.
Investigation on Bioactivity of Zirconium-Calcium Coatings on Titanium Surface Obtained by Sol-Gel and Electrophoretic Deposition (EPD) Methods
Authors: Długoń Elżbieta , Szymańska Marzena , Leśniak Magdalena , Jeleń Piotr , Niemiec Wiktor , Sitarz Maciej
Published: April 2016

The aim of the study was to obtain zirconium and calcium doped zirconium coatings using sol-gel methodology and their further modification with electrophoretically deposited hydroxyapatite. Both systems phase composition was investigated using Raman spectroscopy. Their morphology and composition was studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM) with X-ray microanalysis (EDS), while their topography was observed using atomic force microscope (AFM). The osseointegrative properties of both coatings were investigated using in vitro Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) test. The resulting systems were studied using the same methods that were applied to the two coatings.
Studies of Fretting Processes in Titanium Implantation Alloys from the Ti-Al-V Group
Authors: Klekotka Marcin , Dąbrowski Jan Ryszard , Kalska-Szostko Beata , Klekotka Urszula
Published: April 2016

Fretting wear of components of kinematic pairs used in prosthetics and dental surgery is a significant problem limiting their operating lifetime. This article presents the results of in vitro studies of fretting processes in metal-metal systems. Special attention has been devoted to the degradation of titanium alloys (Ti6Al4V) under simulated conditions of the human oral cavity. Sample surfaces were observed under a microscope, and wear was assessed. Special attention has been devoted to products permanently adsorbed on friction surfaces, which were analyzed by means of spectroscopic methods. Obtained results of studies indicate that two primary mechanisms: abrasive (secondary) wear and adhesive wear, make up fretting wear.The products that mainly form as a result of friction are oxides. To limit fretting wear, it is beneficial to apply lubricants containing friction modifiers and isolating the area of contact from oxygen. Observations made over the course of studies have brought knowledge and will contribute to better identification of fretting wear mechanisms in biomaterials.
Immunodominant West Nile Virus T Cell Epitopes Are Fewer in Number and Fashionably Late
Authors: Kaabinejadian Saghar , McMurtrey Curtis P. , Kim Sojung , Jain Rinki , Bardet Wilfried , Schafer Fredda B. , Davenport Jason L. , Martin Aaron D. , Diamond Michael S. , Weidanz Jon A. , Hansen Ted H. , Hildebrand William H.
Published: April 2016

Class I HLA molecules mark infected cells for immune targeting by presenting pathogen-encoded peptides on the cell surface. Characterization of viral peptides unique to infected cells is important for understanding CD8+ T cell responses and for the development of T cell–based immunotherapies. Having previously reported a series of West Nile virus (WNV) epitopes that are naturally presented by HLA-A*02:01, in this study we generated TCR mimic (TCRm) mAbs to three of these peptide/HLA complexes—the immunodominant SVG9 (E protein), the subdominant SLF9 (NS4B protein), and the immunorecessive YTM9 (NS3 protein)—and used these TCRm mAbs to stain WNV-infected cell lines and primary APCs. TCRm staining of WNV-infected cells demonstrated that the immunorecessive YTM9 appeared several hours earlier and at 5- to 10-fold greater density than the more immunogenic SLF9 and SVG9 ligands, respectively. Moreover, staining following inhibition of the TAP demonstrated that all three viral ligands were presented in a TAP-dependent manner despite originating from different cellular compartments. To our knowledge, this study represents the first use of TCRm mAbs to define the kinetics and magnitude of HLA presentation for a series of epitopes encoded by one virus, and the results depict a pattern whereby individual epitopes differ considerably in abundance and availability. The observations that immunodominant ligands can be found at lower levels and at later time points after infection suggest that a reevaluation of the factors that combine to shape T cell reactivity may be warranted.
Age-Related Decline in Natural IgM Function: Diversification and Selection of the B-1a Cell Pool with Age
Authors: Holodick Nichol E. , Vizconde Teresa , Hopkins Thomas J. , Rothstein Thomas L.
Published: April 2016

Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause of pneumonia, which claims the lives of people over the age of 65 y seven times more frequently than those aged 5–49 y. B-1a cells provide immediate and essential protection from S. pneumoniae through production of natural Ig, which has minimal insertion of N-region additions added by the enzyme TdT. In experiments with SCID mice infected with S. pneumoniae, we found passive transfer of IgG-depleted serum from aged (18–24 mo old) mice had no effect whereas IgG-depleted serum from young (3 mo old) mice was protective. This suggests protective natural IgM changes with age. Using single cell PCR we found N-region addition, which is initially low in fetal-derived B-1a cell IgM developing in the absence of TdT, increased in 7- to 24-mo-old mice as compared with 3-mo-old mice. To determine the mechanism responsible for the age related change in B-1a cell IgM, we established a mixed chimera system in which mice were reconstituted with allotype-marked mature peritoneal B-1a cells and adult bone marrow cells. We demonstrated even in the presence of mature peritoneal B-1a cells, adult bone marrow contributed to the mature B-1a cell pool. More importantly, using this system we found over a 10-mo-period peritoneal B-1a cell IgM changed, showing the number of cells lacking N-region additions at both junctions fell from 49 to 29% of sequences. These results strongly suggest selection-induced skewing alters B-1a cell–derived natural Ab, which may in turn be responsible for the loss of natural IgM-mediated protection against pneumococcal infection.
The Complement C3a Receptor Contributes to Melanoma Tumorigenesis by Inhibiting Neutrophil and CD4+ T Cell Responses
Authors: Nabizadeh Jamileh A. , Manthey Helga D. , Steyn Frederik J. , Chen Weiyu , Widiapradja Alexander , Md Akhir Fazrena N. , Boyle Glen M. , Taylor Stephen M. , Woodruff Trent M. , Rolfe Barbara E.
Published: April 2016

The complement peptide C3a is a key component of the innate immune system and a major fragment produced following complement activation. We used a murine model of melanoma (B16-F0) to identify a hitherto unknown role for C3a–C3aR signaling in promoting tumor growth. The results show that the development and growth of B16-F0 melanomas is retarded in mice lacking C3aR, whereas growth of established melanomas can be arrested by C3aR antagonism. Flow cytometric analysis showed alterations in tumor-infiltrating leukocytes in the absence of C3aR. Specifically, neutrophils and CD4+ T lymphocyte subpopulations were increased, whereas macrophages were reduced. The central role of neutrophils was confirmed by depletion experiments that reversed the tumor inhibitory effects observed in C3aR-deficient mice and returned tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T cells to control levels. Analysis of the tumor microenvironment showed upregulation of inflammatory genes that may contribute to the enhanced antitumor response observed in C3aR-deficient mice. C3aR deficiency/inhibition was also protective in murine models of BRAFV600E mutant melanoma and colon and breast cancer, suggesting a tumor-promoting role for C3aR signaling in a range of tumor types. We propose that C3aR activation alters the tumor inflammatory milieu, thereby promoting tumor growth. Therapeutic inhibition of C3aR may therefore be an effective means to trigger an antitumor response in melanoma and other cancers.
Poder, contrapoder y relaciones de complicidad entre inmigrantes sudamericanos y funcionarios del sistema público de salud chileno
Authors: Liberona Concha Nanette
Published: April 2016

En las relaciones interétnicas existen relaciones de poder que se ven ampliadas en el espacio clínico, es decir donde se desarrolla la relación paciente-terapeuta, que se caracteriza por ser asimétrica. En este artículo se presentan los distintos tipos de relaciones que se observaron en el sistema público de salud chileno, en el marco de una investigación basada en el impacto del fenómeno migratorio en este espacio. En primer lugar, se destaca el poder que ejercen los funcionarios y profesionales de la salud sobre los pacientes inmigrantes. Luego, se evidencia el recurso de un contrapoder por parte de estos pacientes, que es asociado a los conceptos de “hegemonía” de Gramsci y de“agencia” usados por Arent y Sen. Y, finalmente, las relaciones de complicidad que se establecen entre miembros de ambos grupos, donde se expresa lo que podríamos llamar una “solidaridad de clase”
A preliminary spatial-temporal study of some soil characteristics in the calcareous massif of Sicó, Portugal
Authors: Torres Maria Odete , Neves Maria Manuela
Published: April 2016

The mountainous massif of Sicó, in the centre of Portugal, is anextensive area composed of calcareous Jurassic formations. Hillsidecalcareous soils, with high pH, present chemical restrictions to supportplant growth and are subjected to important erosion processes leading to their degradation if not protected by vegetation. In a first year of study some soil physicochemical characteristics have been measured in some geo-referenced locations of a larger design experiment and an exploratory spatial analysis has been performed. The objective of this study was to present some suggestions in order to give sustainable phosphorus fertiliser recommendations aiming to establish pastures in these soils and thus support traditional livestock activity. Ten years apart, those soil characteristics have been measured again in the same locations and comparisions have been made. The objective was to understand the variability of the soil properties under study in order to better adequate the fertiliser soil management regarding the area restoration.
Preferential sampling in veterinary parasitological surveillance
Authors: Cecconi Lorenzo , Biggeri Annibale , Grisotto Laura , Berrocal Veronica , Rinaldi Laura , Musella Vincenzo , Cringoli Giuseppe , Catelan Dolores
Published: April 2016

In parasitological surveillance of livestock, prevalence surveys are conducted on a sample of farms using several sampling designs. For example, opportunistic surveys or informative sampling designs are very common. Preferential sampling refers to any situation in which the spatial process and the sampling locations are not independent. Most examples of preferential sampling in the spatial statistics literature are in environmental statistics with focus on pollutant monitors, and it has been shown that, if preferential sampling is present and is not accounted for in the statistical modelling and data analysis, statistical inference can be misleading. In this paper, working in the context of veterinary parasitology, we propose and use geostatistical models to predict the continuous and spatially-varying risk of a parasite infection. Specifically, breaking with the common practice in veterinary parasitological surveillance to ignore preferential sampling even though informative or opportunistic samples are very common, we specify a two-stage hierarchical Bayesian model that adjusts for preferential sampling and we apply it to data on Fasciola hepatica infection in sheep farms in Campania region (Southern Italy) in the years 2013-2014.
Spatial analysis of incidence of cutaneous melanoma in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in the period 1995-2005
Authors: Cecconi Lorenzo , Busolin Anna , Barbone Fabio , Serraino Diego , Chiarugi Alessandra , Biggeri Annibale , Catelan Dolores
Published: April 2016

Incidence distribution of cutaneous melanoma depends on phenotypic characteristics of population and geographic location. In Italy, in the period 1999-2003 Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) region had the second highest incidence rates for males and the third for females. We analysed melanoma and lip cancer incidence data of the FVG cancer registry for the period 1995-2005. We used Bayesian hierarchical spatial models to describe the spatial pattern by gender. We decomposed the geographical distribution of the risk in two parts: a component linked to chronic exposure and a component related to intermittent exposure. In order to model the chronic component we considered the geographical distribution of incidence cases of lip cancer, for which chronic occupational solar radiation exposure is a documented risk factor. We also analysed the distribution by site and we calculated standardised rates for body surface area. This study documents a significant gradient in the incidence of cutaneous melanoma in FVG. Highstandardisedincidence rates are present in the area of Trieste and in the coastal area. The descriptive analysis by age group and by site, showed risks associated with intermittent exposures in both genders. For the coastal area the risk is especially high for sites traditionally linked to high cumulative exposures (face and neck), especially among men. The results suggest diagnostic preventive interventions in the populations living in the area of Trieste, given the high rates observed in the young age groups.
Severe acute axonal neuropathy following treatment with arsenic trioxide for acute promyelocytic leukemia: a case report
Authors: Kuhn Marcus , Nabergoj Mithia , Sammartin Kety , Vianello Fabrizio
Published: April 2016

Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of arsenic toxicity. Symptoms are usually mild and reversible following discontinuation of treatment. A more severe chronic sensorimotor polyneuropathy characterized by distal axonal-loss neuropathy can be seen in chronic arsenic exposure. The clinical course of arsenic neurotoxicity in patients with coexistence of thiamine deficiency is only anecdotally known but this association may potentially lead to severe consequences.We describe a case of acute irreversible axonal neuropathy in a patient with hidden thiamine deficiency who was treated with a short course of arsenic trioxide for acute promyelocytic leukemia. Thiamine replacement therapy and arsenic trioxide discontinuation were not followed by neurological recovery and severe polyneuropathy persisted at 12-month follow-up.Thiamine plasma levels should be measured in patients who are candidate to arsenic trioxide therapy. Prophylactic administration of vitamin B1 may be advisable. The appearance of polyneuropathy signs early during the administration of arsenic trioxide should prompt electrodiagnostic testing to rule out a pattern of axonal neuropathy which would need immediate discontinuation of arsenic trioxide.