bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent optimal control of thermal vision-based Person-Following Robot Platform
Authors: Ciric Ivan , Cojbasic Zarko , Nikolic Vlastimir , Igic Tomislav , Tursnek Branko
Published: September 2014

In this paper the supervisory control of the Person-Following Robot Platform
is presented. The main part of the high level control loop of mobile robot
platform is a real-time robust algorithm for human detection and tracking.
The main goal was to enable mobile robot platform to recognize the person in
indoor environment, and to localize it with accuracy high enough to allow
adequate human-robot interaction. The developed computationally intelligent
control algorithm enables robust and reliable human tracking by mobile robot
platform. The core of the recognition methods proposed is genetic
optimization of threshold segmentation and classification of detected regions
of interests in every frame acquired by thermal vision camera. The support
vector machine classifier determines whether the segmented object is human or
not based on features extracted from the processed thermal image
independently from current light conditions and in situations where no skin
color is visible. Variation in temperature across same objects, air flow with
different temperature gradients, person overlap while crossing each other and
reflections, put challenges in thermal imaging and will have to be handled
intelligently in order to obtain the efficient performance from motion
tracking system.
The effect of architectural façade design on energy savings in the student dormitory
Authors: Pejic Petar , Petkovic Dusan , Krasic Sonja
Published: September 2014

There are many reasons for adequate use of natural light inside students'
dormitories. Intensity of light required for student activities and
temperature inside the rooms are the major factors for an occupant's
comfortable work and life. Design of building fa?ades has a significant
impact both on the use of natural light and energy consumption. In this
paper, a comparative analysis of student rooms with different orientations
and different fa?ade designs was performed in order to investigate what type
of refurbishment in the fa?ade is necessary. The goal of the refurbishment
was generation of optimal thermal and lighting comfort for students' work
with maximal energy saving for a new student dormitory in Nis, Serbia. An
analysis of annual energy consumption of the newly designed student dormitory
and proposed replacements on the exterior fa?ade was performed by using the
software EnergyPlus. Based on the energy consumption analysis it could be
concluded that significant energy savings would be possible by upgrading the
shading devices across the width of the window. In other words, changing the
fa?ade of the dorm could generally improve students' comfort, while the
energy costs would be reduced.
Optical modeling of a solar dish thermal concentrator based on square flat facets
Authors: Pavlovic Sasa , Stefanovic Velimir , Suljkovic Suad
Published: September 2014

Solar energy may be practically utilized directly through transformation into
heat, electrical or chemical energy. We present a procedure to design a
square facet concentrator for laboratory-scale research on medium-temperature
thermal processes. The efficient conversion of solar radiation into heat at
these temperature levels requires the use of concentrating solar collectors.
Large concentrating dishes generally have a reflecting surface made up of a
number of individual mirror panels (facets). Optical ray tracing is used to
generate a system performance model. A square facet parabolic solar
concentrator with realistic specularly surface and facet positioning accuracy
will deliver up to 13.604 kW of radiative power over a 250 mm radius disk
(receiver diameter) located in the focal plane on the focal length of
1500mmwith average concentrating ratio exceeding 1200. The Monte Carlo ray
tracing method is used for analysis of the optical performance of the
concentrator and to identify the set of geometric concentrator parameters
that allow for flux characteristics suitable for medium and high-temperature
applications.
Mathematical modelling and simulation of the thermal performance of a solar heated indoor swimming pool
Authors: Mancic Marko , Zivkovic Dragoljub , Milosavljevic Pedja , Todorovic Milena
Published: September 2014

Buildings with indoor swimming pools have a large energy footprint. The
source of major energy loss is the swimming pool hall where air humidity is
increased by evaporation from the pool water surface. This increases energy
consumption for heating and ventilation of the pool hall, fresh water supply
loss and heat demand for pool water heating. In this paper, a mathematical
model of the swimming pool was made to assess energy demands of an indoor
swimming pool building. The mathematical model of the swimming pool is used
with the created multi-zone building model in TRNSYS software to determine
pool hall energy demand and pool losses. Energy loss for pool water and pool
hall heating and ventilation are analyzed for different target pool water and
air temperatures. The simulation showed that pool water heating accounts for
around 22%, whereas heating and ventilation of the pool hall for around 60%
of the total pool hall heat demand. With a change of preset controller air
and water temperatures in simulations, evaporation loss was in the range
46-54% of the total pool losses. A solar thermal sanitary hot water system
was modelled and simulated to analyze it's potential for energy savings of
the presented demand side model. The simulation showed that up to 87% of
water heating demands could be met by the solar thermal system, while
avoiding stagnation.
Analysis of Coal With Coal-Mule and Biomass Co-Combustion in Slurry Form/Analiza Współspalania Węgla Z Mułem Węglowym I Biomasą W Postaci Zawiesiny
Authors: Kijo-Kleczkowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2014

Combustion technology of coal-water fuels creates a number of new possibilities to organize the combustion process fulfilling contemporary requirements e. g in the environment protection. Therefore an in-depth analysis is necessary to examine the technical application of coal as energy fuel in the form of suspension. The paper undertakes the complex research of the coal with coal-mule and biomass co-combustion. The mathematical model enables the prognosis for change of the surface and the centre temperatures and a mass loss of the fuel during combustion in air and in the fluidized bed.
Chances and Threats of Hard Coal Mining Development in Poland – The Results of Experts Research/Szanse I Zagrożenia Dla Rozwoju Górnictwa Węgla Kamiennego W Polsce – Wyniki Badań Eksperckich
Authors: Dubiński Józef , Turek Marian
Published: September 2014

The actual situation of hard coal mining in Poland has been presented. In particular, these factors, which have impact on the competiveness of mining sector were highlighted and need of its improving has been stressed. Outlining present situation of hard coal mining an attention was paid to its specific threats. The primary analytical material is based on the results of questionnaire conducted among 92 specialists and experts from the mining sector. The questions were related to chances and threats for development of hard coal mining in Poland. The factors determining them were grouped in such domains as economy, technology, geology, social and law aspects. Moreover, the special attention was paid to the problem of increasing and high costs of coal production which constitute significant threat for the financial and economic situation of the mining enterprises. Also the adverse influence of these high cost on the competitiveness of Polish hard coal with other world producers and with other energy carriers was emphasized. The conclusions summarize the achieved results of analysis.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests of Mining Mobile Inspection Robot/Badania Kompatybilności Elektromagnetycznej Górniczego Mobilnego Robota Inspekcyjnego
Authors: Kasprzyczak Leszek , Pietrzak Roman
Published: September 2014

The articles presents the methodology and results of electromagnetic compatibility tests conducted on a non-commercial prototype of the Mining Mobile Inspection Robot. The tests were carried out in an accredited laboratory of the Institute of Innovative Technologies EMAG in compliance with European standards harmonized with the 2004/108/EC (EMC) directive. In the article the testing stands were characterized along with the test types, performance criteria and test results. The testing methodology and the selection of standards can be a pattern to conduct electromagnetic compatibility tests for similar products designed for the mining industry.
Maintenance Plan for a Fleet of Rotary Drill Rigs/Harmonogram Utrzymania I Konserwacji Floty Obrotowych Urządzeń Wiertniczych
Authors: Rahimdel Mohammad Javad , Ataei Mohammad , Khalokakaei Reza , Hoseinie Seyed Hadi
Published: September 2014

In this paper a basic methodology was used for the reliability modeling and developing a maintenance program for a fleet of four drilling rigs. Failure and performance data was collected from Sarcheshmeh Copper Mine in Iran for a two-year period. Then the available data was classified and analyzed and reliability of all subsystems and whole rigs were modeled and studied. The failure data showed that, in all rigs, electrical, hydraulic and drilling systems are the most frequent failing subsystems of the machine. The reliability analysis showed that transmission system is the most reliable subsystem in all studied rigs. In order to calculate the reliability of whole fleet, it was assumed that operation of at least two drilling rigs is essential for satisfying the production goals. Therefore, probabilistic possibility of all fleet’s states were calculated. In this paper, 80% is selected as the desired level of reliability for developing of preventive maintenance program for each subsystem of the drilling rigs. Finally, the practical approaches were suggested for improving the maintenance operation and productivity of the studied fleet.
The Hot-Wire Anemometer/Anemometr Z Grzanym Włóknem
Authors: Kiełbasa Jan
Published: September 2014

This study analyses the behaviour of a hot-wire anemometer incorporated into a bridge circuit in the function of the voltage Uz supplying the bridge circuit and hence the current Iw flowing through the hot wire. The dependence of differential voltage ΔU on Iw and the value of derivative d(ΔU)/dIw as a function of the current supplying the hot-wire element were determined. These data enable the determination of working conditions of the constant-resistance (i.e. the constant-temperature) hot-wire anemometer.
Verification of Mathematical Description of Changes in Air Temperature and Humidity in Headings Ventilated with Auxiliary Ventilation System/Weryfikacja Metematycznego Opisu Zmian Temperatury I Wilgotności Powietrza W Wyrobiskach Przewietrzanych Lutniciągiem Tłoczącym Z Dadatkowym Wentylatorem O Zmienianej Prędkości Obrotowej
Authors: Nowak Bernard , Piątek Jan
Published: September 2014

The article presents verification of the mathematical model which was developed in earlier works, describing, through distributions of temperature, specific humidity, and flow rate of both fresh and exhaust air in the dead end headings ventilated with forcing duct line ventilation system, the climatic conditions existing in those headings. On the route of the considered duct line, an additional fan with a variable rotational speed was installed in order to avoid recirculation of the air between the inside of the duct line and the heading. The task of this auxiliary fan is an increase in the volumetric flow rate of fresh air at the mine face. The above-mentioned verification was based on a comparison of the calculation results obtained from the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations of the first order and algebraic equations with the results of measurements carried out in the selected mine heading. Wide comparative material was obtained by changing the location of the auxiliary fan in the duct line for a given heading length, and the heading length itself. 14 research variants were obtained in this way, in which, in addition to the already mentioned temperatures and humidity of the air, also the rotor speeds of the auxiliary fan were compared. The results of calculations and measurements have been presented in a graphical form. Their comparison was carried out using statistical methods.
Methodology of Calculation the Terminal Settling Velocity Distribution of Irregular Particles for High Values of the Reynold’s Number/Metodologia Wyliczania Rozkładu Granicznej Prędkości Opadania Ziaren Nieregularnych Dla Wysokich Wartości Liczb Reynoldsa
Authors: Surowiak Agnieszka , Brożek Marian
Published: September 2014

Settling velocity of particles, which is the main parameter of jig separation, is affected by physical (density) and the geometrical properties (size and shape) of particles. The authors worked out a calculation algorithm of particles settling velocity distribution for irregular particles assuming that the density of particles, their size and shape constitute independent random variables of fixed distributions. Applying theorems of probability, concerning distributions function of random variables, the authors present general formula of probability density function of settling velocity irregular particles for the turbulent motion. The distributions of settling velocity of irregular particles were calculated utilizing industrial sample. The measurements were executed and the histograms of distributions of volume and dynamic shape coefficient, were drawn. The separation accuracy was measured by the change of process imperfection of irregular particles in relation to spherical ones, resulting from the distribution of particles settling velocity.
The Role of Geostationary Earth Orbit Communication Satellites in Chinese Area Positioning System
Authors: Ma Lihua
Published: September 2014

The Chinese Area Positioning System (CAPS) is an area positioning system based on Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) communication satellites. Transponders on the satellites are used to retransmit navigation message and ranging signals generated from the ground master station, while users receive navigation signals to perform navigation and positioning tasks. Meanwhile, CAPS also develops bidirectional communication receivers using abundant transponders resources on Slightly Inclined Geostationary Orbit (SIGSO) communication satellites, thus realizing integration of navigation and communication in the coverage region.
Anatomical variations of the sphenoid sinus - a study of 200 cases -
Authors: Lupascu M. , Comsa Gh. I. , Zainea V.
Published: September 2014

Our study on the anatomical variation of pneumatisation of the sphenoid sinuses was performed on 200 tomographical studies, evaluating the anatomical variations of the sphenoid sinuses and the Onodi cells, the types of pneumatisation according with the types described by Hammer and Radberg, as well as the extensions of pneumatisation towards the anterior clinoid processes, pterygoid processes and sphenoidal wings; the frequency of intrasphenoidal protrusions and dehiscences of internal carotid artery, optic nerve, Vidian canal and foramen rotundum and the presence of primary and secondary septa attached to their canals.
Clinical Research of Streptococcal Uveitis (Clinical Cases)
Authors: Farah Constantin
Published: September 2014

Allergic uveitis caused by streptococci are recognized as flowing from a pesthole, the most frequent of them being considered the erythematous and the pultaceous angina. The characteristic of these angina is that they may go unnoticed, the frequency of asymptomatic forms being five times higher than those of symptomatic forms. Since the onset of angina until the early signs of ocular manifestations there is an open interval where there have been no clinical manifestations for approximately two weeks.

In the cases presented further on, the nature of streptococcal uveitis represents all immunoallergic phenomena induced by the streptococcus at the uveal level. A significant proportion of the patients presenting endogenous uveitis, despite of the classical performed treatment (non-steroidal, steroidal and immunosuppressants anti-inflammatory drugs) attain to relapsing forms (30-50%) with powerful complications that respond to late and/or inefficient treatment, managing to burn down the inflammatory phenomena, sacrificing the ocular function. The life of these patients turns out to be full of suffering, prolonged hospitalization, and some of them will count themselves among those with a visual handicap.
Relations between the tracheal and pulmonary trunk bifurcations
Authors: Manolakis Al. , Ionescu C. , Cambrea M. , Bordei P. , Iliescu D.
Published: September 2014

The bifurcation of the pulmonary trunk and trachea were followed on 52 cases being appreciated on the dissection and corrosion pieces and CT examinations, the arterial bifurcation being made under an very variable angle, its value ranging from 30-1080. In 82% of cases the tracheal bifurcation was done under an acute angle, with lower value than the arterial bifurcation angle. In 41 cases (78.85% of cases) the pulmonary trunk bifurcation is done under the bifurcation of the trachea, at a distance of between 0,4 - 2,8 cm, and in 8 patients (15.38% of the cases) the two bifurcations was located at the same level. Only in 3 cases (5.77% of cases), all on CT angiography, we encountered the pulmonary trunk bifurcation above tracheal bifurcation, with 0.3-0.8 cm, bifurcation of the pulmonary trunk being left lying of the tracheal bifurcation. In these cases, the bifurcation angle of the pulmonary trunk is always greater than the angle of the trachea bifurcation. On the dissected and the corrosion pieces is found that when the bifurcation is situated at different levels, the tracheal one being located cranial, the most commonly between them form a rectangular area: rhombus, more frequently, and rectangular or trapezium and rarely a pentagon or triangle. Any geometric shape to be formed between the two junctions, it is often asymmetric.
Drazin inverse matrix method for fractional descriptor continuous-time linear systems
Authors: Kaczorek T.
Published: September 2014

The Drazin inverse of matrices is applied to find the solutions of the state equations of the fractional descriptor continuous-time systems with regular pencils. An equality defining the set of admissible initial conditions for given inputs is derived. The proposed method is illustrated by a numerical example.
An analytical technique for solving general linear integral equations of the second kind and its application in analysis of flash lamp control circuit
Authors: Hetmaniok E. , Słota D. , Trawiński T. , Wituła R.
Published: September 2014

In this paper an application of the homotopy perturbation method for solving the general linear integral equations of the second kind is discussed. It is shown that under proper assumptions the considered equation possesses a unique solution and the series obtained in the homotopy perturbation method is convergent. The error of approximate solution, received by taking only the partial sum of the series, is also estimated. Moreover, there is presented an example of applying the method for approximate solution of an equation which has a practical application for charge calculation in supply circuit of the flash lamps used in cameras.
P1-TS fuzzy scheduling control system design using local pole placement and interval analysis
Authors: Smoczek J.
Published: September 2014

The linear parameter-varying (LPV) discrete-time model based design of a fuzzy scheduling control scheme is developed through incorporating the advantages of P1-TS theory, and applying the local pole placement method and interval analysis of closed-loop system polynomial coefficients. The synthesis of fuzzy scheduling control scheme is proposed in the form of iterative procedure, which enables to find the appropriate number of intervals of a fuzzy interpolator ensuring that a family of local linear controllers places closed-loop polynomial coefficients within a desired range. The computational complexity of multidimensional fuzzy scheduling control scheme synthesis is reduced using a fundamental matrix method and recursive procedure for fuzzy rule-based interpretation. The usability of the proposed method is illustrated by an implementation example and experimental results obtained on a laboratory scaled overhead crane
Modelling of electric current flow in 1D Pd-C nanostructure: comparison with experiment
Authors: Bielski W. , Kowalczyk P. , Czerwosz E. , Idzik A. , Rymarczyk J.
Published: September 2014

In this paper we propose a model of electric current flow through one-dimensional palladium-carbon nanostructure (nanowire) and compare the results of numerical computations with the experimental data. We focus on two aspects: 1) calculation of the current flow through the nanowire model, 2) determination of the macroscopic parameters in the nanocomposite in our model. Because of a complex micro-geometry of a nanowire, we apply the homogenization method to perform the numerical computations.
Squaring down plant model and I/O grouping strategies for a dynamic decoupling of left-invertible MIMO plants
Authors: Dworak P.
Published: September 2014

In the paper problems with dynamic decoupling of the left-invertible multi-input multi-output dynamic (MIMO) linear time invariant plants using a squaring down technique are considered. The procedure of squaring down the plant model and grouping of plant inputs and outputs are discussed. The final part of the paper includes a few examples of different strategies of synthesis of a decoupled system along with conclusions and final remarks.
Towards development of a prototype high-temperature latent heat storage unit as an element of a RES-based energy system (part 1)
Authors: Bogucka-Bykuć K. , Włosiński W. , Bykuć S.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents briefly the state of the art literature review with respect to research in the field of latent heat storage systems as elements of heat only, power only or combined heat and power (CHP) plants utilizing renewable energy sources (RES) for residential applications. Next, a paper introduces initial research carried out in IMP PAN in Gdańsk, Poland, aimed at development of a prototype latent heat storage unit. Identification of the suggested application for the storage unit in a given system is presented. The first stage of development of a prototype heat storage unit, namely a process of PCM pre-selection is discussed.
Reduction of silicon photomultipliers thermal generation in self-coincidence system applied in low level light measurements
Authors: Baszczyk M. , Dorosz P. , Głąb S. , Kucewicz W. , Mik Ł.
Published: September 2014

The paper presents method for thermal generation reduction in low level light applications, especially where measured phenomena have random character. The algorithm was developed basing on cosmic ray measurements. The main parts of the system are: Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM), front-end ASIC for amplifying and shaping signals. SiPM is a very sensitive device which can detect single photons. Comparing to a standard photomultiplier SiPM has a compact size, low operating voltage and it is immune to an electromagnetic field. Thermally generated signals are disadvantage of SiPM. This paper presents the measurement method to reduce influence of thermal generation.
Optimizing the minimum cost flow algorithm for the phase unwrapping process in SAR radar
Authors: Dudczyk J. , Kawalec A.
Published: September 2014

The last three decades have been abundant in various solutions to the problem of Phase Unwrapping in a SAR radar. Basically, all the existing techniques of Phase Unwrapping are based on the assumption that it is possible to determine discrete ”derivatives” of the unwrapped phase. In this case a discrete derivative of the unwrapped phase means a phase difference (phase gradient) between the adjacent pixels if the absolute value of this difference is less than π. The unwrapped phase can be reconstructed from these discrete derivatives by adding a constant multiple of 2π. These methods differ in that the above hypothesis may be false in some image points. Therefore, discrete derivatives determining the unwrapped phase will be discontinuous, which means they will not form an irrotational vector field. Methods utilising branch-cuts unwrap the phase by summing up specific discrete partial derivatives of the unwrapped phase along a path. Such an approach enables internally cohesive results to be obtained. Possible summing paths are limited by branch-cuts, which must not be intersected. These branch-cuts connect local discontinuities of discrete partial derivatives. The authors of this paper performed parametrization of the Minimum Cost Flow algorithm by changing the parameter determining the size of a tile, into which the input image is divided, and changing the extent of overlapping of two adjacent tiles. It was the basis for determining the optimum (in terms of minimum Phase Unwrapping time) performance of the Minimum Cost Flow algorithm in the aspect of those parameters.
Structuring role of F-T synthetic wax in bitumen
Authors: Iwański M. , Mazurek G.
Published: September 2014

The reduction in asphalt mixture production and placement temperatures can be achieved by modifying bitumen 35/50 with the Fischer-Tropsch synthetic wax. To identify the role this modifier plays in the bitumen 35/50, a series of tests has been performed. The experiment was carried out for wax doses from 1.5% to 4.0%. Analysis of the modified binder properties such as ductility at 5, 15 and 25◦C, complex modulus G* with the parameter G*/sinx and LSV, susceptibility according to MSCR procedure, morphology and group type analysis helped describe the structuring function of the F-T wax in the binder. The optimum F-T wax content of 2.5% has been identified to provide the desired parameters required for modified binders.
Modelling and optimal control system design for quadrotor platform – an extended approach
Authors: Zawiski R. , Błachuta M.
Published: September 2014

This article presents the development of a mathematical model of a quadrotor platform and the design of a dedicated control system based on an optimal approach. It describes consecutive steps in development of equations forming the model and including all its physical aspects without commonly used simplifications. Aerodynamic phenomena, such as Vortex Ring State or blade flapping are accounted for during the modelling process. The influence of rotors’ gyroscopic effect is exposed. The structure of a control system is described with an application of the optimal LQ regulator and an intuitive way of creating various flight trajectories. Simulation tests of the control system performance are conducted. Comparisons with models available in the literature are made. Based on above, conclusions are drawn about the level of insight necessary in creation of control-oriented and useable model of a quadrotor platform. New possibilities of designing and verifying models of quadrotor platforms are also discussed.
Exit selection process during crowd evacuation, modelled on the cockroach emergent behaviour
Authors: Zajdel M. , Filipowicz B.
Published: September 2014

Groups of living creatures are often faced with searching for resources and choosing between one or more alternatives of resource site. Such a process is connected either with calm food acquirement or looking for a safe place to hide from danger. The question is, what kind of criteria are taken into consideration and what induces the collective decision, when all individuals in a swarm are equal. This paper identifies a simple mechanism of shelter selection by cockroach herd, whereby an emergent decision is made with limited information and without centralization of information processing or comparison of available solutions. The mechanism leads to the optimal benefit for both a group and an individual. The proposed model activates swarm self-organization and is independent of species, therefore, a possible application to human crowd control has been studied.
Biometric speech signal processing in a system with digital signal processor
Authors: Marciniak T. , Weychan R. , Stankiewicz A. , Dąbrowski A.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents an analysis of issues related to the fixed-point implementation of a speech signal applied to biometric purposes. For preparing the system for automatic speaker identification and for experimental tests we have used the Matlab computing environment and the development software for Texas Instruments digital signal processors, namely the Code Composer Studio (CCS). The tested speech signals have been processed with the TMS320C5515 processor. The paper examines limitations associated with operation of the realized embedded system, demonstrates advantages and disadvantages of the technique of automatic software conversion from Matlab to the CCS and shows the impact of the fixed-point representation on the speech identification effectiveness.
Multicriteria Evaluation of Managerial Competences: An Application of the Dominance Principle and the Rough Set Theory
Authors: Gaia Do Couto Ayrton Benedito , Autran Monteiro Gomes Luiz Flavio
Published: September 2014

This study demonstrates an analysis of executives based on their management competences. The aim of the study is to identify those executives that show a greater strategic alignment with the guidelines set by an organization. The analysis is performed using self-evaluation and corporate evaluation by considering each management competence as a criterion. It makes use of the Dominance principle (i.e., the Dominance based Rough Set Approach, denoted here as DRSA). The use of DRSA permits the inference of decision rules and identifies the revisions that violate that principle. The main advantage for an organization from using this procedure (i.e., DRSA and RST) is offering the organizational decision makers a comprehensive analysis of their executives. As a major result, training programs aligned to the expectations and needs of the organization can be developed and implemented
Holistic Entropy Reduction for Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Szwabe Andrzej , Misiorek Pawel , Janasiewicz Tadeusz , Walkowiak Przemyslaw
Published: September 2014

We propose a collaborative filtering (CF) method that uses behavioral data provided as propositions having the RDF-compliant form of (user X, likes, item Y ) triples. The method involves the application of a novel self-configuration technique for the generation of vector-space representations optimized from the information-theoretic perspective. The method, referred to as Holistic Probabilistic Modus Ponendo Ponens (HPMPP), enables reasoning about the likelihood of unknown facts. The proposed vector-space graph representation model is based on the probabilistic apparatus of quantum Information Retrieval and on the compatibility of all operators representing subjects, predicates, objects and facts. The dual graph-vector representation of the available propositional data enables the entropy-reducing transformation and supports the compositionality of mutually compatible representations. As shown in the experiments presented in the paper, the compositionality of the vector-space representations allows an HPMPP-based recommendation system to identify which of the unknown facts having the triple form (user X, likes, item Y ) are the most likely to be true in a way that is both effective and, in contrast to methods proposed so far, fully automatic.
Variables and Values in Children’s Early Word-Combinations
Authors: Ninio Anat
Published: September 2014

A model of syntactic development proposes that children’s very first word-combinations are already generated via productive rules that express in syntactic form the relation between a predicate word and its semantic argument. An alternative hypothesis is that they learn frozen chunks. In Study 1 we analyzed a large sample of young children’s early two-word sentences comprising of verbs with direct objects. A majority of objects were generated by pronouns but a third of children’s sentences used bare common nouns as objects. We checked parents’ twoword long sentences of verbs with objects and found almost no bare common nouns. Children cannot have copied sentences with bare noun objects from parents’ two-word long sentences as frozen chunks. In Study 2 we raised the possibility that children’s early sentences with bare nouns are rote-learned ‘telegraphic speech’, acquired as unanalyzed frozen chunks from longer input sentences due to perceptual problem to hear the unstressed determiners. To test this explanation, we tested the children’s speech corpus for evidence that they avoid determiners in their word-combinations. The results showed that they do not; in fact they generate very many determiner-common noun combinations as two-word utterances. The findings suggest that children produce their early word-combinations of the core-grammar type by a productive rule that maps the predicate-argument relations of verbs and their semantic arguments to headdependent syntax, and not as frozen word-combinations. Children mostly learn to use indexical expressions such as pronouns to express the variable semantic arguments of verbs as context dependent; they also employ bare common nouns to express specific values of the arguments. The earliest word-combinations demonstrate that children understand that syntax is built on the predicate-argument relations of words and use this insight to produce their early sentences.
Developing Temporal Systems
Authors: Weist Richard M.
Published: September 2014

This paper reviews a body of research that reveals how children acquire the capacity to express the temporal location of episodes that they remember and those they anticipate for the future. The paper shows how the child’s knowledge of language structure provides a window on the conceptual development of memory processes and the capacity for conceptual time travel away from the conversational context of the speech act.
Two routes to closure: Time pressure and goal activation effects on executive control
Authors: Kossowska Małgorzata , Bukowski Marcin , Czarnek Gabriela
Published: September 2014

In the present study the impact of need for cognitive closure (NFC) manipulations via time pressure and explicit closure goal activation on executive control was investigated. Although there is some evidence that NFC, measured as an individual variable, is related to better performing in attentional tasks involving executive control, these results have never been validated across different manipulations of NFC. Thus, in the present study we induced NFC via internal and external time pressure and tested the impact of these manipulations on the performance in tasks that measure executive control, i.e., the Stroop and switching tasks. The results revealed that induced high (vs. low) NFC, indeed boosted performance in executive control tasks. Moreover, there was no difference in the effect of both NFC manipulations on task performance. The implications regarding the role of executive control and specific NFC manipulations in social cognition are discussed.
The effect of metacognitive self on confirmation bias revealed in relation to community and competence
Authors: Brycz Hanna , Wyszomirska-Góra Magdalena , Bar-Tal Yoram , Wiśniewski Piotr
Published: September 2014

The main goal of our study was to investigate the role of insight into one’s own biases (metacognitive self) in the process of hypothesis validation in accordance to the two fundamental social perception domains (community and competence) on the example of confirmation bias. The study was conducted on a group of 593 participants with the use of a confirmation bias procedure, a free recall procedure and the Metacognitive Self scale. We manipulated with the domain and the value of information given to the respondents. We suspected that individuals with a high metacognitive self, in opposition to low metacognitive self ones, would not process the given information according to the two fundamental social perception domains. The results verified the existence of an interaction effect of the metacognitive self (MCS) and the domain of the information given about a perceived person on the susceptibility to follow the confirmation bias. Contrary to the low metacognitive self individuals, who show a higher tendency for the confirmation bias within the competence than the community domain, persons with a high insight into their own biases express the same level of confirmation bias in no respect to the domain of the information. The value of the information has no significant influence.
The impact of incidental fear and anger on in- and outgroup attitudes
Authors: Bukowski Marcin , Dragon Piotr , Kossowska Małgorzata
Published: September 2014

The aim of this research was to examine the impact of two specific negative emotions of anger and fear on intergroup attitudes. In Study 1 we measured emotions of anger and fear and in Study 2 we evoked these emotions incidentally, that is independently of any intergroup context. In both studies we measured attitudes towards the ingroup (Polish) and the outgroup (Gypsies).We expected that fear would lead to more positive ingroup attitudes and anger to more negative outgroup attitudes. The results of the correlational study (Study 1) confirmed the predictions regarding anger and decreased outgroup evaluations, and the experimental study (Study 2) revealed that fear enhanced positivity towards the ingroup, but anger increased negativity towards the outgroup. The impact of fear and anger on social attitudes in the specific context of a negatively self-stereotyped ingroup is discussed.
Formation of homosexual orientation of men in adolescence
Authors: Katra Grażyna
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of homosexual men connected with the formation of their sexual orientation in adolescence. A comparative study of 27 young adult homosexual men and 28 heterosexual men of similar age used a categorised interview questionnaire consisting of two parts: the first with questions regarding sexual dreams, fantasies and erotic encounters; the second with questions on family and social circumstances.

The study yielded an abundance of interesting data on the psychological circumstances of homosexual men during the formation of sexual orientation and its awareness as well as differences and similarities in that area between homosexual and heterosexual men. For instance, it revealed experience patterns concerning the formation of sexual identity and personal attitudes toward one’s sexual orientation characteristic of homosexual persons. The study verified the main hypothesis that mental-internal experiences precede behavioural-external ones both in homosexual and heterosexual persons.
Cognitive dysfunctions associated with white matter damage due to cardiovascular burden – determinants and interpretations
Authors: Krukow Paweł
Published: September 2014

Although considerable research has been devoted to cognitive functions deteriorating due to diseases of cardiovascular system, rather less attention has been paid to their theoretical background. Progressive vascular disorders as hypertension, atherosclerosis and carotid artery stenosis generate most of all pathological changes in the white matter, that cause specific cognitive disorder: disconnection syndromes, and disturbances in the dynamic aspect of information processing. These features made neuropsychological disorders secondary to cardiovascular diseases different than the effects of cerebral cortex damage, which may be interpreted modularly.
The role of temperament in posttraumatic growth following death of a loved one
Authors: Ogińska-Bulik Nina
Published: September 2014

The study investigates the role of temperament in posttraumatic growth among people who experienced a death of someone close. A group of 74 participants - mostly women (63.5%), aged 21 to 74 years (M=38.4; SD=15.5), who lost a parent, a child, a spouse or a partner, a sibling or a very close friend completed questionnaires measuring levels of posttraumatic growth (the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory) and temperamental traits (the Formal Characteristics of Behaviour - Temperament Inventory). Results revealed that increased appreciation of life and improved relations to others are the most prevalent areas of posttraumatic growth. Findings suggest that such temperamental traits, as emotional reactivity, and to a lesser extent briskness and endurance play significant role in posttraumatic growth.
The role of reinstating generation operations in recognition memory and reality monitoring
Authors: Nieznański Marek
Published: September 2014

The role of encoding/retrieval conditions compatibility was investigated in a reality-monitoring task. An experiment was conducted which showed a positive effect of reinstating distinctive encoding operations at test. That is, generation of a low-frequency (LF) word from the same word fragment at study and test significantly enhanced item recognition memory. However, reinstating of relatively more automatic operations of reading or generating a highfrequency (HF) word did not influence recognition performance. Moreover, LF words were better recognized than HF words, but memory for source did not depend on the encoding/retrieval match or on the word-frequency. In comparison with reading, generating an item at study significantly enhanced source memory but generating it at test had no effect. The data were analysed using a multinomial modelling approach which allowed ruling out the influence of a response bias on the measurement of memory ability.
Hypodontia phenotype in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Fekonja Anita , Cretnik Andrej , Zerdoner Danijel , Takac Iztok
Published: September 2014

Background. Ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed in an advanced stage and the present clinical and diagnostic molecular markers for early OC screening are insufficient. The aim of this study was to identify potential relationship between the hypodontia and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Patients and methods. A retrospective study was conducted on 120 patients with EOC treated at the Department of Gynaecologic and Breast Oncology at the University Clinical Centre and 120 gynaecological healthy women (control group) of the same mean age. Women in both groups were reviewed for the presence of hypodontia and the patients with EOC also for clinicopathological characteristics of EOC according to hypodontia phenotype.

Results. Hypodontia was diagnosed in 23 (19.2%) of patients with EOC and 8 (6.7%) controls (p = 0.004; odds ratio [OR] = 3.32; confidence interval [CI], 1.42-7.76). There was no statistically significant difference in patients with EOC with or without hypodontia regarding histological subtype (p = 0.220); they differed in regard to FIGO stage (p = 0.014; OR =3.26; CI, 1.23-8.64) and tumour differentiation grade (p = 0.042; OR = 3.1; CI, 1.01-9.53). Also, bilateral occurrence of EOC was more common than unilateral occurrence in women with hypodontia (p = 0.021; OR = 2.9; CI, 1.15-7.36). We also found statistically significant difference between the ovarian cancer group and control group in presence of other malignant tumours in subjects (p < 0.001).

Conclusions. The results of the study suggest a statistical association between EOC and hypodontia phenotype. Hypodontia might serve as a risk factor for EOC detection.
Educational Leaders and Emotions
Authors: Berkovich Izhak , Eyal Ori
Published: September 2014

The aim of the present article is to review the international evidence about emotional aspects related to educational leaders. The review focuses on empirical studies published in peer-refereed educational journals between 1992 and 2012. First, we address the importance of researching emotions for understanding educational leaders. Next, we present the method used in the production of this narrative review. The bulk of the article presents empirical evidence from 49 studies organized along themes. Three central themes have emerged in the review: (a) the factors influencing the leaders’ emotions, (b) leaders’ behaviors and their effects on followers’ emotions, and (c) leaders’ emotional abilities. Within each theme, we present subthemes that include summaries of the relevant key findings. The article concludes with several methodological recommendations and an outline of possible directions for future research.
The Prekindergarten Age-Cutoff Regression-Discontinuity Design
Authors: Lipsey Mark W. , Weiland Christina , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Wilson Sandra Jo , Hofer Kerry G.
Published: September 2014

Much of the currently available evidence on the causal effects of public prekindergarten programs on school readiness outcomes comes from studies that use a regression-discontinuity design (RDD) with the age cutoff to enter a program in a given year as the basis for assignment to treatment and control conditions. Because the RDD has high internal validity when its key assumptions are met, these studies appear to provide strong evidence for the effectiveness of these programs. However, there are overlooked methodological problems in the way this design has typically been applied that have the potential to produce biased effect estimates. We describe these problems, argue that they deserve more attention from researchers using this design than they have received, and offer suggestions for improving future studies.
Effectiveness of an Educational Feedback Intervention on Drug Prescribing in Dental Practice
Authors: Rauniar GP , Das BP , Manandhar TR , Bhattacharya SK
Published: September 2014

Background Irrational use of drugs as well as inappropriate and over drug prescribing leads to unnecessary expenditures and emergence of resistant bacterial strains. Feedback intervention on drug prescribing habits and face to face educational intervention of prescription audit would be effective in rationalizing prescribing practices. Objective To measure the impact of educational feedback intervention on the prescribing behavior of dental surgeons. Methods Prospective audit of twelve hundred outpatients prescriptions in dental OPD at BPKIHS of those dental surgeon who attended the educational intervention session was collected randomly by trained persons on customized data collection sheet before and after educational intervention. Results A total 1200 prescription were collected, 300 before and 300 after intervention period at the internal of one month, three months and six months. Majority of the prescriptions (39.33%) contained four drugs but after intervention, prescriptions contained mostly one drug, 73% in first month, 78.67% in third month and 65.34% in six month. Mean number of drugs per prescription after intervention were decreased. There was increased number of generic names of drugs after intervention. Amoxicillin, Metronidazole, Chlorhexidine, Povidone iodine gargle, Nimesulide, Ibuprofen, Ibuprofen + paracetamol, and Paracetamol were most commonly prescribed by dental prescribers before and after intervention. Selection of antimicrobial was done on empirical basis which was correct because Amoxicillin concentration reaches effectively in gingival crevicular fluid and Metronidazole covered effectively against anaerobic bacteria were found in orodental infection. The uses of topical anti-infective preparation as irrigants of choice that can kill majority of micro-organisms found is root canal and dental tubules and minimize systemic use of antimicrobials. Nimesulide prescribing needs to be rationalized. Conclusion Feedback educational intervention of prescription audit is effective to improve their prescribing behaviors and rationalize drug utilization pattern for the benefit of the patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10991 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):30-35